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Post by shaecayrn on Sept 24, 2017 15:41:49 GMT
Her entrance into the dining hall was so much less dramatic than her entrance into the ballroom, but she drew a few looks anyway. There was no shadowy aura accompanying her this time, merely the shadows that clung to her feet and skirts, her own aura of mystery, and a smirk that promised mischief. As she entered into the otherworldly dining room, she glanced around, showing her opinion in a single raised eyebrow. Obviously, this human king was trying far too hard. As was whoever had actually decorated the hall so enthusiastically to make it seem as though it was underwater. Part of her hoped desperately that some merfolk would take offense, though that seemed unlikely to cause too much drama at a ball that was supposedly celebrating the peace between all of their races.
The smell of seafood saturated the air, many of the tables already having been served, and Shimmer’s nose wrinkled slightly as she stepped forward slowly, eyes scanning those who were already seated. Nervousness ate at her. She had not been around this many people since she had eaten regularly at the mages' school. There were a few familiar faces among those seated. For a moment, she found Orin, and debated sitting with him. But then she noted the woman sitting with him now, making conversation. It looked much like the one Djinn had bumped into, but she could not be sure. No, she didn't want to sit next to Orin. Besides, the woman looked as though she might be flirting. Who knew? Her dark gaze scanned over those seated, and then found a familiar figure, though the last she had seen him had been in the dark shadows of the Duskmire. She did not know his name even, but she knew his secret.
And next to him was another, their heads close together, murmuring about one thing or another, at a small, circular table.
A small smile tilting the corner of her lips, she turned, walking around servants, tables and people until she could loop around behind them, though it was obvious she planned to sit with them there. Almost silently, she made her way until she was close enough that a few words drifted to her ears.
"...want... far away.... where... together." The young man's words were difficult to hear, but not quite quiet enough.
Her lips curved further upwards, and she stepped closer. Waiting for the other's response, but it was too quiet for her to hear properly.
Again she waited until the first replied with something vague that she couldn't quite interpret, but it was clear enough to her that there was something going on here. She stepped forward, to the side, and then moved into their line of sight, a small smile, almost sincere, upon her face. Her voice was a low purr. "Pardon me, gentlemen... Do you mind if I sit?" She didn't really give them a choice, for she pulled out a chair and draped herself upon it before they could tell her no. Attentive servants hurried forward to place a glass of water and a goblet of wine in front of her, as well as to ensure she had food. At that point it was almost too late to object, at least until she had eaten. Perfect.
She offered an apologetic smile, as if she hadn't expected such quick attendance of such things, and offered. "There isn't a lot of space for me to sit without squeezing beside someone droll or boring." And in truth, the hall was growing a bit more crowded. "My apologies for intruding, but perhaps we can make the best of it? I am Shimmer." Shaecayrn spoke to both of them, her eyes upon Luhan with sincerity, though she glanced at Ladon and a small quirk tilted her smile even more to one side for a flash of a second, and she waited for the servants to leave them be, which was not too long. This gave them time to introduce themselves if they wished, and whatever small pleasantries they cared for.
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Post by Luhan on Sept 24, 2017 21:15:03 GMT
After dancing with Ladon for quite a while he started feeling tired, and his legs began to ache - it was easier for him to get fatigued the past few days, and now he knew the reason why. Although, that didn't stop him from having fun and growing quite an appetite. He was starving throughout the first dance, and he was excited when he heard that dinner was served in the dining hall. "Finally.." He mumbled almost inaudibly under his breath, holding onto Ladon's hand. A smile formed on his lips as they walked side by side to the dining hall - the enormous room was beautifully decorated, and music was playing in the background once again. He was surely loving the underwater theme, even though he wasn't too good at staying underwater himself. But the whole place looked beautiful and well put together, and the colors turned out to be his favorite.
He took a quick glance around for two available seats next to each other and once he found them, he walked over to pull a chair back for the dragon first, before sitting beside him. He bowed his head gracefully as they were served with drinks and food, although he figured he should stay away from the wine for now.
He soon engaged into a conversation with Ladon - they were discussing their future, as usual. Now they mutually decided on what to do, but ..there was just one problem. "I do want us to run far away.. somewhere we can finally be together. But.. we don't have a place to stay yet. And how will we get jobs?" He muttered as he didn't want other people at the table overhearing them. He exhaled out but the smile remained on his lips, not wanting to look stressed in public. He took another bite of his food before suddenly the couple was interrupted, causing Luhan to look up as he heard someone's voice. "Ah sure, go ahead." He spoke politely but at the time he finished his sentence the woman already had taken a seat beside them.
Luhan took a careful glance of the woman, his feline ears twitching curiously. She looked very beautiful, tall, and elegant. Perhaps.. she was a princess? Surely she had the appearance of one. Or maybe his guess would be far off. She also seemed to be fierce, and determined. A person who wouldn't let someone be the boss of her. But the prince didn't have much experience with people, so he wouldn't be sure. "It is nice to meet you, my name is Luhan." He couldn't help but move the tip of his tail in slight happiness, but he soon contained himself and kept his tail lowered. He then noticed the glancing exchanges between Ladon and the woman, tilting his head. Maybe they already knew each other? If so, perhaps that would be the reason she was sitting with them.
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Post by Ladon on Sept 24, 2017 22:28:39 GMT
Ladon was about to answer his question when the both of them were seated. They would have to get jobs and Ladon had thought about it. He was thinking that someone might be willing to offer a position here at the ball, the more he looked around. Just as he was about to open his mouth someone decided to sit next to them. Suddenly turning his head toward the newcomer the man's eyes immediately recognized who it was. It was that woman from the Duskmire Woods, the very one that had turned him into a dragon against his will. She knew of his secret. She gave him a look that indeed told him who was in charge here. She had held almost everything over him in this very situation. Even over the prince. She could spill one word of what happened that night when Ladon just wanted to go out for some fresh air. She could even mention to everyone in the room that he was a dragon. Did she still have that potion? Did it really track him after all even when she promised that it did not? Or had she just spotted him here and decided to amuse herself with his presence? Either way, he knew that she must be up to no good. He narrowed his eyes slightly, but kept silent as Luhan accepted her at their table. He couldn't say anything to her. About how he knew her. Not in front of him. There had to be another way to get her away from the table, but for now he had to keep formalities. Though, what did she want? He was most concerned with that. Maybe she had come here for more blood. But now, he was in a tight position, now that Luhan was here with him.
Then Luhan gave her his name and he thought that perhaps he should do so as well. "Ladon." His response was short and curt. However she had already known of his name, so it would be no surprise to her. He wanted to ask her what she was doing here, however he couldn't as Luhan was there as well. For now he had to pretend that he did not know her. More servants then came around, brining them more plates and had set down a few dishes in front of Ladon. He did enjoy seafood, however he preferred freshwater fish much more than saltwater ones. Soon enough he then began to start eating, distracting himself from her presence. But he knew that she wouldn't keep quiet for long, as that was not her. He knew that she would say something before long. Poking his fork into the flesh of the fish he then placed it into his mouth and began to chew, trying to focus his taste on the meal itself rather than the sight of the dark woman in front of him. Then he thought of something. Had she overheard them? Well, that would have been bad. Though, he continued to wait, having her make the first move in this mind game of chess. Anything he would have said would invite her to converse, so rather instead he turned to Luhan.
"Luhan, are you enjoying your food?" he then asked, head turned away from the woman as he gazed at him. He wasn't sure if he was enjoying his food or not, or if he liked seafood for that matter. Well, he was a cat after all, and cats likes fish right? Though perhaps this was more of a redirection on his part, to focus his attention away from the mage. But, he would know that it would be futile anyway.
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Post by shaecayrn on Sept 25, 2017 16:38:11 GMT
Shimmer didn't hide her curiosity as she looked over Luhan. His feline features set him apart from the mass of humans that were here tonight. Indeed, she wasn't sure if the magical beings out numbered the lackeys of the human King. But Luhan was quite obviously something else. A werebeast was most likely. Fascinating. She had not truly gotten to know very many werebeasts. And then her eyes returned to Ladon, for a brief moment, thinking of the few words she had heard as she approached. Was this the reason that Ladon had been so distracted that night, so eager to get away from her? This handsome young fellow? How intriguing. The mage looked to her plate for a moment, murmuring, "A pleasure to meet you both.". Shimmer offered them a sincere smile. It would be a pleasure, she was sure. She was patient, she could wait for a moment before pouncing, The fish in front of her was.... unerringly fishy. Even with the herbs, which seemed to be a delightful mix, the fish underneath wasn't very appealing to her. Instead she picked at the side dish of mushrooms. They were overcooked, but still held the earthy flavor to them, at least. Everything looked like it was soaked in butter. Fish was good, at least, the freshwater fish she had now and then, and even the crawfish. The sucker-fish that lurked in the muddy pools of the swamp, not so much. It was an effort to get rid of the taste of bottom-feeder. Turning her thoughts from fish, she returned her gaze to the two men at the table with her. A moment of debate happened before she reached for the wine, picking it up to see what vintage the human king had served his guests. An eyebrow raised at the sharp scent, the too sweet-rotting berry smell that was always part of wines. No. Besides, there was mischief to be had, and being drunk, or even tipsy, would meddle with her control upon her magic. She couldn't have that tonight. Oh no. And so she waiting for a bit longer, as Ladon finally spoke, to Luhan in specific, and then allowed time for Luhan's reply before she spoke. The mage's voice was soft, carrying to them because of the low notes she spoke in more than anything else. "I could not help but overhear just the smallest amount as I walked over." She set her glass of wine down after pretending to sip at it and then her eyes flicked up to move between Luhan and Ladon, curiosity plain upon her features. "I do not wish to assume, but it sounded as if you wish to... move, in the process running away from something that keeps you apart." Her voice gentled slightly, lips softening from her almost smirk and into something much more sincere. "If such is the case, I believe that I can help. If you have need of it. I hate watching those who care for each other kept apart because of influences within their lives." Leaning forward, her star-speckled gown of silver and charcoal shifted in the light, and her beads swung over her shoulders with a delicate clinking noise. Her dark eyes were doe-like in their current innocence, as if she truthfully only wished to help the two. Ladon Luhan
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Post by Luhan on Sept 25, 2017 23:25:54 GMT
He blinked in surprise at the older male's rather cold response, which caused him to be even more curious. He turned his head to look over at him before tilting it slightly to the side. Was Ladon in a bad mood? Or perhaps he heard some bad rumors about this woman. Maybe they did meet before? Or that's how Ladon greets people.. Who knows. He decided to brush it off for now, giving another polite nod of his head at the Shimmer's greeting. Did other people of non-royal status bow their heads? He wasn't sure, but perhaps that was not the case. He had never seen a commoner bow to another before. Nevertheless he gave the beautiful stranger a warm smile before diving in back to his food, his tail happily swaying once again.
Due to his mother being allergic to it, seafood and anything else that came from the sea never entered the palace's dining room. So it was natural that Luhan hadn't eaten seafood before, although he always was looking forward to eating new types of food and discovering new recipes. He cut up the fish carefully before taking a bite. He froze for a moment at the unfamiliar taste, swallowing hesitantly before glancing back down at his plate. Fascinating.. He took another bite quite eagerly, emitting a happy hum as he glanced over at Ladon, swallowing carefully before answering his question. "Oh it is really delicious, I love it. I have to be honest, I don't know what this is, but it's really good. The smell is kind of strange though.." He smiled brightly, slowly clearing up his plate from any remaining food. He was going to cut up a piece and offer it to Ladon, but perhaps he shouldn't do that when being surrounded by people.
Although he was enjoying his food -perhaps a bit more than normal-, he had to pause once the lady began to speak. He used a napkin to clean his mouth before glancing up at her, curious as to what she had to say. It took him a moment to process her words, blinking in surprise. So his conversation with Ladon was overheard after all.. That wasn't a good sign. Were they going to get in trouble? He examined the woman's expression, not knowing if she was being honest or not. Why would she help them? Such kindness was unexpected these days, unless.. she needed some sort of leverage. Luhan wasn't smart, barely had any skills that would prove to be useful but he wasn't completely oblivious. What would she need from them? At this point, they literally had nothing in their possession. Except... No.. He tensed at the thought, quickly dismissing it as silly.
He was at loss of words - Ladon was probably not too happy either. But if this woman was sincere with them.. they could really need her help. His teeth nervously nibbled on his lower lip, looking up to Ladon as he wondered what his opinion would be. He didn't want to accidentally reveal more information than he should, not at least before knowing if they could trust her.
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Post by Ladon on Sept 26, 2017 5:58:29 GMT
He smiled at Luhan's response, glad that he was enjoying his meal at least. His attention then turned to the woman, who of course began to speak again. He then gazed down at his food once more, about to take a bite but then she said something that hit him. The fork he held froze in place, and his eyes looked up to her, widening. She had overheard them? He continued to listen to what she had to say, and quickly his eyes averted to Luhan. Of course, he didn't know her. So he couldn't tell him that she was not to be trusted. Such trickery stemmed from the mage, however now she held that very thing over him. His face turned to her again, eyes narrowing as he continued to take his bite, ignoring the taste as his attention mostly focused on her. She held so much more over him, no, them now. She knew that they were together, she knew that they wanted to run away. All that much, she had learned within a short amount of time. Just from a few words, just watching him here with Luhan. She could probably tell everything about him already. Shimmer also had his blood, what did she do with it? Perhaps she had tracked him after all. However, it could also be that she was here for a thanks, for the kind donation, although he doubted it. But... her words also held truth to them. She had tricked him before yes, but what she said was indeed correct. He wished to run away with Luhan, and that's what they were doing. Though they had nowhere to stay. Nowhere to work. Ladon almost thought the task to be impossible. How could they survive? And indeed his thought had been true, they had found one person at the ball that was now offering to help them, though his suspicions remained high. He didn't like the thought of her offering them a place to stay, if they did accept it. Where did she live anyway? In the woods of Duskmire? He doubted they would last very long there.
Though, the more he thought about it, the more he seemed to agree with it. For now, at least, they wouldn't have to worry about work. She most likely wanted to use him again for his blood. But she had kept the secret of him being a dragon before, but now it was now all up to her to reveal his secret, which was something she now held over him. Not only that but the fact that they had met previously, and knowing her ways she could easily deceive Luhan about what had actually happened. Much like before, Ladon was trapped. Although this time it was not the metal cage around him, this time it was all mental. She had a clever way with words, as she offered them help even though she had trapped him forcefully against his will. He would know to be cautious around her but then again what choice did they really have? Now she knew and she could also very well find out where they came from and spread word to Luhan's father where they were. It was a tight situation, and Ladon looked at her somberly, glare darkening.
"What is it that you could offer?" he asked, voice deeper than usual.
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Post by shaecayrn on Sept 26, 2017 14:52:55 GMT
She waited patiently, as Luhan looked to Ladon with uncertainty in his eyes, and Ladon stared at her with distrust and suspicion. Not that he had no reason to distrust her, for he certainly had every excuse. Shimmer fully expected that Ladon would tell her no outright, to mind her own business, and to leave their table without further ado. But instead he watched her and looked thoughtful, though his glare darkened as the seconds pass. He knew that there was so much she could do with the few secrets she now held, and he didn't seem inclined to risk too much of her ire. The dragon spoke, his voice deep, asking what it was she could offer.
Her reply was thoughtful. "At the very least, I could offer a safe place to stay until it is safe for you to wander freely together." She didn't give them a chance to object or deny that they couldn't do so now. "The only reason that you both would need to run away to be together is if one or both of you had obligations that kept you apart. People that interfered, that would come looking. Though I would perhaps need some of your help, I can ensure these people... don't come searching, ever." She looked rather casual, glancing between the two of them, a polite smile tilting her lips. All the world would see from a distance is three dinner guests politely conversing among themselves.
She paused as a servant passed too near, and then continued quietly. "How far do you wish to run knowing that you can never settle down in one place lest those who did not want you gone come running to find you?" She glanced between them, keeping her expression sincere, though inwardly she was laughing with pleasure. She had found... something. Not precisely mischief. Gain, though, if she played everything here correctly. And perhaps more gain than she yet knew... Her eyes landed upon Ladon, knowing that he was the one she would have to win over for certain. He was the one who distrusted her as soon as he saw her now, and with good reason. But the desperate scholar finding a dragon in the Duskmire was not her face tonight. Tonight she simply wished to help a couple who might otherwise be kept apart.
Looking between the two once again, her lips tilted into a sympathetic look. "It is only if you wish for my help, of course." Within her words was the hint that, should they not want her help, her 'help' may very well go to someone else. Not that it showed. But she knew that Ladon was suspicious of her. He would be considering every angle she might come from.
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Post by Luhan on Sept 27, 2017 17:09:02 GMT
The werebeast watched the interaction between Shimmer and Ladon closely, blinking in curiosity. How did this woman know so much about them already? It's as if she overheard more than just what he said to Ladon earlier. What if she was following them along all this time? Or she was able to read their minds somehow? He wasn't too aware of all the dangers lurking outside of his kingdom. His feline ears tilted backwards in defense, flicking his tail nervously. He noticed how all this time Ladon hadn't said anything yet, just barely uttering a word. Instead he was scowling at the woman, glaring at her even - so he was surprised when he asked for more information.
Shimmer's words weren't threatening in any matter. On the contrary, they were supposed to be helpful and kind. So why there was so much tension? Well, there was something off about her, but he had to hear any explanation she had to give. "We are in a complicated situation, yes. I'm of high status, but I do not wish to be any longer. But many people will be searching for me." He paused for a moment before continuing to speak. "Why would you help us...? What's in this for you?" He said bluntly, palms calmly resting on his lap as he kept his posture straight. "We don't have much to offer, and we don't want to be a burden on you."
He then thought about her words more carefully. Indeed.. Although he was willing to, he didn't want to go through the risk of running away for a long amount of time, only to be chased by the guards that his father would send after them. It would be really helpful if they had a place to settle down in, at least for a short amount of time - whether it was cozy or not. But..at what cost? What did she really need from them? He exhaled out, biting his lower lip rather nervously as he waited for the woman's response, humming quietly afterwards before turning to Ladon. They exchanged a glance before Luhan turned back to Shimmer. "We'll think about this carefully. Ladon?" He slowly stood up, hoping that the other male would follow him so they could make a decision and discuss in private.
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Post by Ladon on Oct 1, 2017 2:10:31 GMT
He continued to glare at her as the woman spoke, words full of promise and hope. She knew what she did back there to him, and she also very well knew what position they were in now. But her words also held truth to them that he could not deny. After all, she was secretive as well, hiding within the dark gloominess which was the Duskmire Woods. Perhaps if she did hold them in her housing, or whatever dwelling, she would keep her word for their protection against invading intruders. But at what cost? His eyes turned to Luhan briefly as he spoke, a continued somber glance on his face. The prince indeed was asking the right question. What was in it for her? And, why had she gone to speak with them here and now, or did she happen to see the opportunity to gain something? He knew that perhaps it had to do something with him. Something with his dragon blood. That could be why but he also didn't know what she had used it for exactly. Although maybe she was harmless indeed, just using it for some voodoo spell that required many ingredients of some sort. However, he knew that she was powerful and a force not to be reckoned with, so they had to be cautious around her.
Even as Luhan turned to him asking the question his gaze still focused on the dark woman, his near-black eyes piercing at her. This was such an opportunity, but at the same time he didn't trust her. Just as he opened his mouth to speak the herald called that the results for the voting were in, causing him to turn his head abruptly in that direction as everyone had gone silent. His eyes then focused on the winners who were called and only a few of them had walked up to the stage. He hadn't even noticed that there was a voting. His head then turned to the other two at the table, and he was still about to say something however he was interrupted again by the herald saying that everyone should head to the Final Dance in the ballroom. Looking down at his half-eaten plate he still turned his head back up to Shimmer. "Yes, we will have to further discuss this," he told her. Standing from his chair he then turned to Luhan. "We should head to the Grand Ballroom," he said, offering a hand like a gentleman. There was no use hiding it from the woman as she already knew of their relationship. His eyes suspiciously gazed at her once more, before turning to Luhan once more. He didn't like this but it was something that he would definately take into consideration. If anything this could be their only hope if they wished to make this work.
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Post by shaecayrn on Oct 1, 2017 14:12:05 GMT
Her shadowed, secretive eyes slid from Luhan to Ladon and back again. Having given up on actually attempting to eat the provided dinner, Shimmer pulled a bead from one of her braids. A brilliant, transparent bead of aquamarine, it flashed a lovely color as both men seemed to debate, looking at each other. Luhan with worry, Ladon still suspicious. But she knew it wouldn't take long for them to make up their mind to either reject her offer or accept it. They had little choice but to struggle on, on their own, or to accept her protection. Especially with what she knew of Ladon, and the easily guessed assumptions about Luhan.
A dragon and a werebeast of high rank, both male, and together, would be a cause for drama anywhere. Those of higher rank were all too often married to create political alliances, to continue the bloodlines... for one of them to not do so was unacceptable, among most peoples. There were some, perhaps, that could slip out of it, due to having older or younger siblings, but it was not common.
The herald announced the winners of... what? She had barely noticed anything about any man, woman, or couple of the ball. Whatever. It didn't matter. And the Final dance of the night would begin soon. Very well. She hummed softly to herself, molding the bead into a necklace charm, shaped like a small feline. It was only the vaguest of shapes, but held the key elements, a long tail, the small, pointed ears and rounded muzzle. And as did so, she set a spell upon the charm, allowing her to track it and allowing it, as well, to return to her.
Even as it finished in her hands, Luhan and Ladon both had agreed to discuss her offer further. Ladon rose, offering his partner a hand, and before Luhan took it, Shimmer rose herself, smiling still. "Of course. I would not expect such a decision on a whim. Take this. If you decide to come, simply tell it to lead you to me. It will do so." She slipped the small charm to Luhan, with a kind smile tilting her lips.
"I hope you enjoy the rest of your night." She swept away from them, not quite heading toward the ballroom with the crowd, but seeming to slip around the edges of the crowd, perhaps not wishing to get squished among the people.
[Shimmer exit]
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