The great doors of the Bingley’s home are enormous. From the first glance, you would guess that they were far too heavy to open with just one person. There is an elaborate knocker on there, of a phoenix laying sprawled against a shield, the whole thing in bronze. If one where to take hold other phoenix and bang it promptly against the shield, then the doors would creak open. The shock of the fact, is that there are no people to open the door. Some say that Mister Bingley possesses magic, but he only laughs and denies such a thing. So the mystery of the large stone doors remain completely unknown.

The first time one enters the Bingley mansion, there is an astounding feeling that goes through them. The entry is the first room, and the shock usually leaves them incredulous. The whole entryway is painted a gold-hued brown and antique white, and it is huge. Angels adorn the ceiling, alongside a luxurious chandelier. Every step taken on the pale tan marble echoes through the corridor, arousing the attention of anyone within earshot – which is about a room or two away, depending on whether the Bingley’s are aware of and expecting your company.

Many plants are set about the large room, of various kinds, and they are often decidedly ‘touchable’ to the visitors of the home. They are quite fabulous, as Mister Bingley would no doubt go on and tell you.

The Bingley’s are incredibly eccentric when visitors come over. So, you have been warned.

The Bingleys are NOT NPCs, mind you. :P

Florence Raine

Florence Raine stood at the edge of the Bingley property, simply looking at them. She was sort of afraid to go in, really; they were so large and lovely and imposing that it seemed almost vulgar to even step on the grounds without being invited to. Indeed, the mansion itself was quite impressive; almost as large and beautiful as her own back home…a fitting abode for the people who Florence had heard from Mrs. Pierce were, aside from the Hawkins brothers – and of course herself, although Mrs. Pierce didn’t know that – the only nobles in Helvaband, aside from Nicolas Dubon. Most probably related to Cody and his brother in some way – nobles were mostly inbred, Florence knew.

She wondered if Cody would be there. For some reason, the thought didn’t excite her as much as it would have a little while prior, although the butterflies she felt beating against her stomach whenever she thought of him had not completely died out…merely diminished in number a tad. She supposed that the initial euphoria of first love couldn’t last forever.

Florence snapped herself back to her current situation. Was she to simply walk in? Wouldn’t that be rude, however? But she was a noble (and her own father’s estate was much grander than this one anyway), so shouldn’t she not have to worry about things like that? She was her father’s daughter after all. Florence lingered, hoping for one of the Bingleys to save her from having to make his decision.

Luckily, she hadn’t long to wait, for she could see Mr. Bingley wheeling out of his large mansion, a merry expression on his face. “Hello, Mr. Bingley. It’s lovely to see you,” she said.

Florence Raine

“Well hello!” Mr. Bingley said in reply to her greeting. “Pardon me for seeming distracted, but I must note how wonderful of a day it is! They look almost as wonderful as yourself. Now, what has brought you so far as to come to my home today?”

“Oh,” Florence said, “my father sent me a letter telling me that, since I’m in Helvaband, I must call on the Bingleys. A friend of his said once that they knew you. I forget the name of his friend. Pardon me for coming unexpectedly, but I was just so busy that I didn’t have time to write.” She dropped a curtsy, making it as graceful as possible. She thought that she might like Mr. Bingley; he seemed like a nice, if a little eccentric, old man.

“Pardon me again…. But forgive an old man with fading memory! I simply cannot get your name into my mind. What is it now?”

“It’s-” Florence was just about to introduce herself properly, when she heard a very familiar voice calling out.

“Uncle Richard! Sorry it took so long to get here,” Cody said, suddenly appearing. His face was red and he was breathing heavily, but he looked as handsome as ever. Then he spotted Florence. “Florence?”

“Um, hello,” Florence said, tucking a curl behind her ear demurely. To her embarrassment, she found that she was blushing – not hard, in fact, it probably looked rather pretty, but still, it was revealing that she was less than absolutely, perfectly composed.

Mr. Bingley seemed oblivious to her and Cody’s discomfort, for he said, in as cheerful a tone as ever, “Well, there it is! Florence Raine. Thank you, Cody. Yes, yes. Well, it is good to see you have finally gotten here, young sir! What is all the gasping for?” How does he know my name? Florence wondered as she smiled at Cody tentatively.

“Cally… She’s been chasing me on foot all the way from the mansion.” Florence resisted the urge to raise an eyebrow. Cally? She? A girl. A girl was chasing him? Who was this Cally? Had Cody been leading her on all this time? Of course, that didn’t seem at all like him, but he had never told her about a girl called Cally. Florence checked herself just as her thoughts were getting out of control. Cody wouldn’t do that to you, she told herself. He’s too nice to lead anyone on. Relax. Florence, you have trust issues. Deal with them. Suddenly, a pretty blonde girl ran up and threw her arms around Cody’s neck from behind. Excuse me? I call that highly improper, Florence thought even as she grinned in spite of herself. The girl was so enthusiastic, rather like a little girl on Christmas Day.

“UNCLERICHAAAAAAAAAAAARD!!!” the girl – presumably this Cally that Cody talked about – squealed. “I’M SO HAPPY TO SEE YOU! See my new dress!” ‘Cally’ spun around to show off her white dress, which was very pretty, although not as nice as her own, yellow dress. But then again, Florence was making calls and ‘Cally’ was probably dressed for common days. Florence wondered where she got the dress.

“Yes, very lovely, Caliopa. But I think you may be making this young lady feel very left out…” Florence opened her mouth to protest that she wasn’t feeling left out at all (even though she sort of was), and that maybe she should just bow out and come to call another time, but Mr. Bingley started talking again. “Come inside you crazy children. I swear, I should not know what sorts of trouble you would be in if I wasn’t watching you so much.” He laughed and then turned to her. “Oh, Miss Florence… We shall be very busy today – as you can see – but you may come in of course, if you would like. We still have one guest yet… Cody, keep an eye out for your friend.”

“As long as I’m not intruding…” Florence said, feeling awkward but not showing a bit of it (__A true noble never reveals any sign of discomfort,__ she reminded herself again and again in her head). She congratulated herself for sounding reluctant without sounding reluctant, which didn’t make sense at all, but that was the only way to describe it – confident but polite.

“Who?” Cody said, confused.

“Miss Rebecca Appleton.“ Rebecca? She has plans without me? Wow, she’s improved. Developed some backbone. The old man wheeled into the hall and Caliopa let out a squeal.

“I’M HOME!“ Her high-pitched squeal echoed in the large halls. Florence grinned good-naturedly at Caliopa. She seemed like a sweet girl…very fun, to say the least.

Florence allowed herself to sneak a peek at Cody, who, to her pleasure, was looking at her as well. So, hey Florence. Fancy…fancy seeing you here today.” Florence smiled – the darling boy was obviously nervous, and because of her. How flattering. If it were any other man, she would probably have put him down as inexperienced and dropped him as fast as if he had been a hot potato – which was a horrible analogy, but it would suffice – but Cody’s inexperience was part of his charm. It became him.

“Fancy seeing you here,” she said teasingly. “I’m just here to visit Mr. and Mrs. Bingley. My father wrote and told me that I must call on them, since his friend spoke of them very highly.”

Caliopa continued to squeal in a delighted manner. The sound reminded Florence that she hadn’t properly introduced herself. “Hi,” she said when Caliopa paused for breath. “I just realized that I haven’t properly introduced myself. I’m Florence Raine. I love your shoes, by the way,” she added, catching a glimpse of the other girl’s shoes.

Richard Bingley

“Fancy seeing you here,” Florence replied to Cody’s stammering remark. Richard watched them for a moment. “I’m just here to visit Mr. and Mrs. Bingley. My father wrote and told me that I must call on them, since his friend spoke of them very highly.” Richard turned around to follow Caliopa into the hall as she let out a cry of delight at being ‘home’. He smiled as he wheeled along behind them.

“Hi,” Florence told Caliopa. “I just realized that I haven’t properly introduced myself. I’m Florence Raine. I love your shoes, by the way,”

“Thank you!” Caliopa exclaimed, whirling around. “I’m Caliopa O’Hara. Nice to meet you.” Caliopa turned around and cupped her hands around her mouth to make the sound of her sing-song voice echo. “AUNTIE CAAAAAAAAAATHY!!!”

Richard laughed to himself, turning to look as a carriage pulled up. “Ah, here comes the lady.” he said quietly to himself, sitting still as he watched Cody go up to it. One of the coachmen helped Rebecca Appleton out, and she looked as splendid as ever. Obviously, Cody thought so as well, for his mouth was open a bit. A small rock hit the boy in the back of the head and he jolted, but thankfully shut his mouth. Richard smiled. That doorway had a mind of gold, and it was very much in sync with Richard’s own.

Hello! I’m here!” Rebecca exclaimed, coming over. “Mister Bingley, thank you so very much for sending the carriage. It was a lovely trip—no one ever mentioned how pretty Helvaband is!” Rebecca smiled, and Richard returned it.

“Ah, the scenery does not match my mistress…” Richard said with a laugh. “But it may match you in the height of its splendor. It is much more than lovely that you managed to make it.”

Rebecca then smiled at Florence and Cody, and Richard watched them with interest. “Hello, Cody. It’s lovely to see you again. And you, Florence…I didn’t know you were expected here as well.” she said, and Richard felt some sort of frustration in the young lady’s voice as she spoke. It was understandable. From what Richard had found, Florence was out for his younger nephew, and it seemed that they would be an incredibly mismatched pair. “I’m very excited to be here, Mister Bingley.” Richard nodding as a smile came back onto his face. He noticed Cody still rubbing the back of his head, glancing around to see who had thrown it. Rebecca looked over at Caliopa. “Hello there. I don’t believe we’ve met before. My name is Rebecca Appleton. The Bingleys were kind enough to invite me for dinner this evening.”

Cally smiled. “I’m Caliopa O’Hara. It’s nice to meet you, Rebecca. And yes, my aunt and uncle may very well be the nicest people in Helvaband. Fancy that, they’ve been here the longest, their family. Founded Helvaband hundreds of years ago. It’s so fun to have an uncle who has inherited a town!” she said with a laugh. Richard smiled slightly, forgetting that he usually did not go on about that. Nonetheless, he was too happy to see Rebecca to be upset. This was all going to work out still, somehow. Cathy’s plan would work. Rebecca and Cody looked too good together. It was obvious now. Not only did they go well together as far as personality, but their looks… it simply clicked in Richard’s mind.

“Well, that aside, shall we go out to the gardens or would the lot of you like to come inside?” he asked, smiling widely. “I will tell you this, if my beautiful wife does not come out of that stuffy house soon, I may just have to go in after her nonetheless. But it is a wonderful day.” Then he shook his head. “She will be along shortly. She always knows what to do. No doubt she will have something she wants all of you to do, so I shall not interfere with that.”

Florence Raine

Florence resisted the urge to raise an eyebrow after Rebecca greeted her, with a hint of coolness in her voice. Excuse you, she would have liked to say, but she held it in. Poor little Becki was probably just jealous or something. Or still miffed at her behavior. I’ve apologized. There’s no need to milk it. Anyway, I don’t even see why I did apologize, since she’s acting like this. Plus, Raines don’t apologize. Florence greeted her nicely, not showing a trace of outward bitterness. “Hello, Rebecca. Lovely to see you,” she said with a sweet smile.

As Rebecca turned to greet Caliopa, Florence flipped a curl behind her shoulder and smoothed down an imaginary wrinkle in her skirt. She was glad she had worn one of her more conservative – yet becoming – dresses, because she would probably have regretted wearing something more low-cut – it would be uncomfortable.

Just then, a cry from Caliopa sent a stately lady out of the house. She seemed to have kept her figure well, in spite of the fact that she was probably as old as Mr. Bingley. “Oooooh! It’s my favorite niece, come back to her neglected aunt and uncle! My dear, you’ve waited far too long to come and stay with us again!” Mrs. Bingley went on, gushing about Caliopa. Next, she moved onto Rebecca, and then Cody, and then – just as she was considering pulling out the tiny mirror she kept with her at all times – her. “Well, my dear, aren’t you just an utter picture of attractiveness?”

Florence smiled as sweetly as she could and demurely tucked a curl behind her ear. “Thank you,” she said, lowering her eyelashes momentarily to give off the impression that she was sweet and humble.

“May I make the pleasure of your acquaintance? I am Catherine Bingley.” Mrs. Bingley’s smile was open and sincere. Florence decided that she liked these people, although if she were one of them she would probably be a lot less lenient with the people of the town.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Bingley,” Florence replied with a graceful curtsy. “I’m-”

“Oh!” Mrs. Bingley interrupted after looking back and forth between her and Cody. “Are you Florence Raine?”

I wonder how everyone knows my name… “Yes, that’s me,” she said with a bright smile. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. My father said that his friend spoke very highly of you and wrote me to tell me that I must call on you.” Florence smiled again. “You have a lovely home,” she added, figuring that compliments were probably the best way to start off a conversation.

Richard Bingley

It was mere moments after his note of her coming that none other than Helvaband’s Angel appeared, crying out with joy. She was a picture of heaven in his eyes as she ran out, her skirts all a flutter and her eyes wide with excitement. She had rarely looked so beautiful, and never had anyone been so beautiful in his eyes besides Cathy.

Just Cathy. Always Cathy. Forever Cathy.

For a long while, he just watched her as she spoke to the other people there, his eyes glazed and his face frozen in an expression of pure bliss. Then he heard someone say something to him. “Mister Bingley, can we perhaps take you up on your offer to see the gardens? I’m sure they’re as lovely as the house. Unless, of course, you would prefer to go inside? Knowing Helvaband, if it isn’t raining, it will rain soon.” Miss Rebecca said. Moving out of his stupor, he blinked his eyes.

“What? Oh yes. Forgive me, I was lost in my wife’s splendor…” he said, laughing. “Well, maybe Miss Caliopa and Miss Florence can follow my darling wife out to the gardens… I would like to take Miss Rebecca and Cody inside for a while.” His eyes met Cathy’s for a moment, and he gestured towards the house. “Alright then, you, disperse. But first…” He moved over to Cathy. “Darling, you are feeling better, aren’t you? You felt a bit dizzy this morning, I saw.” Richard’s eyes were wide with worry for just a moment. “If you are not feeling better, I can take them to the gardens. Truly, it would be no trouble.”

Florence Raine

She had a feeling that something suspicious was going on. Why were they keeping her away from her beau? Why did Mrs. Bingley grab Caliopa to whisper things in her ear with a conspiratorial look on her face? Why was Rebecca looking at Cody like that? It was all very, very suspicious. Oh, you’re just being silly, Florence, she told herself. There’s nothing suspicious about this. You’re just being paranoid and jealous. These people are nice and well-meaning. They’re certainly not out to get you. Still, she couldn’t help but feel that there was something weird going on, and she didn’t know what.

Still, she covered up her doubts with a smile and a gleam in her eye as usual, and followed Mrs. Bingley and Caliopa so she was a few steps behind so she wouldn’t overhear, but she couldn’t help but catch a few snatches of conversation. Something about not wanting it to get out…something else about how she maybe shouldn’t tell Caliopa. So they are planning something, Florence thought, feeling indignant but looking nonchalant on the outside, looking at a passing butterfly with a smile on her face. I bet they’re planning to set up Cody with Rebecca…I just bet. Hmph. Well, even if they do, it won’t work. And even if it does, maybe I don’t want Cody as my beau anymore…

Florence caught herself at this last thought. Florence Raine, that is the most ridiculous…how dare you think something like that…I can’t believe… But still, as she told herself those things, she wondered if she really did still want Cody as her beau.

He was sweet and handsome, but he was rather tactless at times. And, really, after the initial burst of passion, most of it had died. Well, you couldn’t have expected all the passion to last forever, she told herself. Cody is a wonderful young man. Now let’s stop this talk about not wanting to be with him anymore.

Florence looked around nonchalantly. She hated to think badly about her hostess, but it was rather rude of her to ignore Florence like that, not that she’d ever show it. Even if she was being rude, she was still her hostess, and it would not do to show disapproval of her hostess.

Richard Bingley

Richard missed quite a bit of the conversation, for watching Cathy come in. He mentioned it, and she giggled loudly.

“Mr. Bingley, one of these days I’m going to just burst in two from such compliments!” she cried, turning to Miss Rebecca Appleton. “He’s such a tease!” He laughed, then suggesting that they go into groups. Of course Cathy wished he take them aside and disappear, but he tried to make it as calm as possible.

Besides, Caliopa and Florence seemed like two similar people. Perhaps they could benefit from time together.

Richard brought it to Cathy’s attention that he could take the ladies out to the garden, if she wished to stay inside. Her condition had been strange earlier, and he very much willed her to be inside if she was not feeling as well as she could. “Oh, Mr. Bingley, you never miss a thing, do you? Yes, I’m feeling much better now. It was all the anticipation, you know. I had to worry about a little of this, where to place that, and such. But I’m feeling as spry as any of these young ladies, I assure you.” Cathy said, her words flying by so fast that most would never have caught a bit of it. Richard caught every word. He smiled at her as she patted his hand softly, and laughed as she kissed him atop his head. “Just you take care not to get your chair caught somewhere, darling. It would be quite embarrassing for us to have to pull you out of some corner, yes?”

Cathy laughed, and Richard joined in, the sounds meshing together from years of being effected by one another. Oh, he loved her so much. He could never deserve her. “Yes, that it would.” he replied with a laugh. “I shall take extra care, my dear.”

“We’ll catch you three later, dears! Do keep an eye out for Albertine, will you? I haven’t seen her in what seems like years!” she asked, walking in a way that made it almost seem like she was flying.

He laughed. “I shall surely look for her!” he cried after her, the laugh remaining in his voice. He looked over at the remaining young people. “She is surely the most wonderful creature I have ever laid eyes upon.” Richard sighed. “Ah, but we must go, yes? Come then.”

Cody seemed confused through all of this. “Uncle Richard…” he began, pouting his lip. Richard met his eyes. “Why are you splitting us up like this? It’s an odd thing to do… separating Florence and I, because…”

Richard laughed. “Yes, I know. But, I could tell that Cathy has something for those two girls.” he explained, with a wink at the boy. “And you two are sure to be such lovely company, together, so I could not refuse the opportunity.”

The young man still seemed confused, but said nothing else as they made their way along. “How are you, Cody?” Miss Rebecca asked.

Ah, and Richard glanced back to see Cody smiling brightly. “I am well, Becki, though my brother is not quite well. You seem to be doing splendidly, for you look it. Is that right?” Cody asked, his whole person nearly sparkling with excitement. Richard smiled to himself, wheeling along. They came to the edge of the entryway, and he turned to them.

“I am sorry, you two, I have just remembered that I said I would look for Albertine. Cody, young man, will you go look for her quickly? Miss Rebecca and I shall continue on into the Ballroom, let Albertine know to meet her mother in the Gardens.” Richard said, smiling at the two of them. “Come, Miss Appleton. The Ballroom was created to be exquisite , and I’m sure that you will enjoy it.”

Richard has left the Entryway

Florence Raine

Florence knew very well that the Bingleys were all trying very hard to break her and Cody apart – really, they haven’t even given me a chance! It’s as if I don’t even have feelings! I wonder if Cody knows of this; he’d never approve – but decorum and decency kept her from bringing it up. After all, they were his family, and, well, she wasn’t about to stoop to their level. She was a noble, and she was going to act it, too, even if they wouldn’t. She would show them that she was the best possible beau for Cody by being perfectly sweet and gracious and kind, and, well, if it failed, then they would just have to deal with it.

So when Mrs Bingley announced to them that she was pregnant, she allowed herself to be endeared by Mrs Bingley’s good-natured chatter (the thought that one couldn’t tell from the way she talked that she was a scheming, manipulative old snob, even though she pretended to be so down-to-earth, didn’t even enter her mind! Until the thought that it didn’t enter her mind did, of course), and she grinned sweetly at her and said, “That’s just wonderful news, Mrs Bingley. I’m sure you’ll be just fine, and, anyway, you don’t look too old to have a baby. Why, you don’t look a day over thirty. I offer my most sincere congratulations!” And she was happy for her, because, if Mrs. Bingley wasn’t trying to take Cody away from her, she would have liked her immensely – very much indeed. And she really did want her to like her, and not just because she wanted her to stop scheming to break her and Cody apart – she genuinely did want that for its own sake as well. It was really too bad that the Bingleys had refused to give Florence a chance, because, if they had, then she had a feeling that they would have gotten along splendidly.

Catherine Bingley

Cally, of course, was exuberant about the news of a new baby Bingley. She squealed with delight and embraced her aunt, who laughingly accepted it with a little squeal of her own, “Ooooooooh! Aunty Cathy, congratulations! Another baby! A little tiny boy or girl! A new cousin for me! Oh, that’s awesome!”

“Oh! I just cannot wait until I can tell Mr. Bingley,” Aunty Cathy cried. “He’ll be so delighted, don’t you know! He’s always adored babies. Why, if he didn’t cradle, cuddle, and coddle them so very much he might just have to eat them!”

“It’s true! He loves them.” Cally nodded, her eyes gleaming with happiness, “I’m so happy for both of you,”

Catherine’s smile faded a bit, and she had to force herself to add on, “Oh, but darling…I do know there may be problems. Everyone I’ve talked to just go on and on and on about how many things that can go wrong at my age…” she stopped, and Cally frowned.

“Oh, don’t be silly, Aunt Cathy! You can do anything. I’ve believed that ever since I was a tiny little slip of a girl and I still believe it now. You’ll be just fine.”

This brought the smile back on her aunt’s face – Cally was always so supportive and optimistic. Her amiable personality reminded Catherine of a gentler version of herself. “But I’m in perfect health, my dears. So let’s just not worry. Look at me, I’m as healthy as a horse. And unfortunately, I’m going to start eating like one soon. Keeping this secret from Mr. Bingley has just been torture, my children! Just torture!”

“I’m sure it was!” Cally cried, squealing again as Catherine began to walk again, linking her arm in Cally’s, “When are you going to tell Uncle Richard? It had better be soon, because even if you can keep a secret like this, I simply cannot! If you don’t tell him soon, it’ll just build and build up inside of me until I explode and tell him!”

Catherine patted Cally’s arm gently, beaming in her happiness, “I will tell him,” she said with determination, “As soon as I am sure everything is going fine, despite my age. I plan on telling him after the autumn ball we’ll be hosting this year. Oooh! Won’t he be surprised!”

“That’s just wonderful news, Mrs Bingley. I’m sure you’ll be just fine, and, anyway, you don’t look too old to have a baby. Why, you don’t look a day over thirty. I offer my most sincere congratulations!” Florence added. Catherine blushed prettily, looking downward after giving Florence a grateful smile.

Cally smiled at Florence. “That’s really nice of you to say. Thanks!”

“Thank you very much for your compliments, my darling, even if I cannot believe I have held onto my youth so well as that. Especially with young beauties such as you two distracting everyone – I cannot hope to hold onto beauty much longer at all.” She halted and touched Florence’s arm delicately, “My dear, in my happiness I have nearly forgotten – as a newcomer to town, I simply must go searching the young men for your match! Oh, please don’t argue – they always argue, you see – and I simply insist on at least having a thorough search of the current eligible men for your sake! You’re such a sweet child, how can I not do my best for you!” She offered Cally a little smile, “This one,” she said, indicating her niece, “Is very picky, you see. You wouldn’t think it, looking at her amiability, but then again, she’s held so close to my heart, I cannot help but be a little choosy myself. My nieces and nephews are so precious to me, you see.”

“So tell me, Florence,” she started off again at a gentle walk. The baby would need her to exercise as much as she was able, “About yourself. What do you aspire for in life, in a man? I’m sure as such a noblewoman as yourself you must be very accomplished. Here we have a less extensive, but very warm and welcoming, social atmosphere, which must contrast a great deal with what you’re used to. Am I right in assuming?”

“Thank you very much for your compliments, my darling, even if I cannot believe I have held onto my youth so well as that," Aunty Cathy told Florence enthusiastically. "Especially with young beauties such as you two distracting everyone – I cannot hope to hold onto beauty much longer at all. My dear, in my happiness I have nearly forgotten – as a newcomer to town, I simply must go searching the young men for your match!" Cally snorted quietly with amusement. Of course Aunty Cathy would try to set Florence up with some lad just like she had with Rebecca. "Oh, please don’t argue – they always argue, you see – and I simply insist on at least having a thorough search of the current eligible men for your sake! You’re such a sweet child, how can I not do my best for you! “So tell me, Florence. About yourself. What do you aspire for in life, in a man? I’m sure as such a noblewoman as yourself you must be very accomplished. Here we have a less extensive, but very warm and welcoming, social atmosphere, which must contrast a great deal with what you’re used to. Am I right in assuming?”

At first, Cally thought Florence would stand up to Aunty Cathy, because she herself now felt her aunt was going a bit too far. Did Cathy truly not know that Florence and Cody were something of an item? Or was she simply continuing to attempt to break them apart? Cally wouldn't blame her if she was--from the way Rebecca looked at Cody, it was obvious that she felt something more than mere flirtation or attraction with him. Was Florence so blind she couldn't see that?

“Well, I actually already have a beau.” Cally's eyes widened slightly. “Cody. Your nephew? He’s lovely.” Florence's tone was sweet but dangerous, like the belladonna plant--pretty but deadly. “All in all, I think I’ve done well enough on my own, don’t you?”

Cally made a sound that was half gasp, half squeak. In her life she had never heard anyone speak to Aunty Cathy in such a manner, but here Florence was doing just that. What will Aunty Cathy say? Oh, maybe we shouldn't interfere with this any longer...

"Yes," she said quietly. "Yes, I think you have."

OOC: The previous things here are, I believe, done with. LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED....RIGHT NOW! : D Anyone who wishes to come is invited. BIC:

Catherine Bingley

Cathy beamed, holding protectively to the newborn babe in her arms, proud as a mother hen. She had no words for how happy Richard had been to hear about the pregnancy – she had accidentally told him over breakfast not long after her walk in the gardens with Florence and Cally – and he had been stubborn in his caution in anything concerning her or the baby. That’s just like him! She thought as she beamed down at her sleeping child in her arms. He was so careful, until the very end She knew that it was completely against all odds that she could have a child at her age, and when she had awoken to find little Pip in her arms, she had been relieved. Complications had happened, but somehow she had pulled through. Everyone had been pleasantly surprised to see Mrs. Bingley on her feet again within a day or so, and for the most part back to her normal busy and cheerful self.

“Pip, my darling,” she cooed to the sleeping child, “You are an angel sent to me.” The name had not been initially received as well as she might have hoped – after all, her first daughter had been named Albertine, a choice that had been explicitly Mr.Bingley’s fault – but she loved it. It was simple, and much more befitting to a child than the dull names her peers chose for their offspring. Besides, it reminded her of the name they called her nephew, Kip. He’s a sweet boy. I wish I knew where he had run off to. She sighed to think of the flamboyant young man. He would have been a fine example for young Pip. I’m sure he would have loved the boy.

“Oh, darling, not there.” Mrs. Bingley looked up to find one of the servants putting out a bouquet of red roses. Sure, they were very pretty, but they did not go in this room! The clash was painful to the eyes, “Put those in the drawing room, next to that pile of papers Mr. Bingley left in there. Oh, and do set out some fresh flowers in the ballroom. There were some lovely magnolias chosen in their fullest bloom that she wished to have spread across the refreshment tables in the dining room, and some viscarias in the ballroom – very fitting, she thought. She had been very thrilled at Mr.Bingley’s suggestion that they throw a sort of baby-celebration party in honor of their newest born, their heir, their sweet. And she intended on it being perfect; everyone would be invited in Helvaband, she had already arranged everything.

Everything was perfect.

I'll bring in the other characters that are coming to the party--Patrick and Cally--later, because I don't want to be boggled down by too much right away. BIC:

Lottie Fitzgerald

Lottie bounced up and down excitedly on the carriage seat, her face just inches away from the window as she watched Helvaband pass by them, her eyes peeled for her first glimpse of the fabled Bingley mansion. Her heart was pounding and her face felt hot, just as it had when she had talked about Drake to Lilith. "Are we there yet, Mama?"

"Not yet, Lottie! Will you please settle down?"

Lottie laughed enthusiastically. "Sorry Mama! I'll try..." Why can't I be like this? What's the problem, Mama? It's the first party I've ever been invited to, and Drake will probably be there! No wonder I'm excited! Why don't you understand that, Mama? Don't you remember your first party? She stopped fidgeting, for Mama's sake, but she continued to look out the window eagerly.

Despite her excitement, Lottie also found she was a bit nervous. It was her first party, after all, unless one counted birthday parties of family members, which she didn't. I don't know if they'll be nice to me...I won't know a lot of them, either! I haven't met everyone yet...just a few people. Will they be mean to me? Will they do that thing where they don't look me in the eye? I hate when people do that, and I hate that I don't know why they won't look at me and no one will tell me...

Her thoughts buzzed around her head as they rode on, Mama looking calm and collected as always and Lottie trying her best to mirror that. After all, if Mama was doing it, it had to be the right thing to do, right?

"Lottie," Mama said after a few moments. Lottie looked up. "Yes, Mama?"

"We're here."

Lottie let out a squeal of delight as the carriage stopped, throwing the door open before the driver even had a chance to get down. "Oh, Mama, look at it, it's so beautiful!" she said in awe, looking up at the grand house. She gathered her skirts up and prepared to jump down from the carriage, but Mama's hand on her shoulder stopped her. She waited as Mama got out and turned back to the door, holding out a hand to help Lottie down as she always did. "Careful..." she said, her eyes taking in Lottie's every move. You always do this, Mama...don't you trust me to get down for myself?

She almost took off running towards the front gates, but one look from Mama stopped her. "Slow down, Lottie--the party isn't going anywhere, I promise you," she said, amusement coming into her ever-worried eyes. "Besides, you don't want to ruin your pretty new dress, do you?"

Lottie immediately shook her head. No, because no one's ever seen me in fancy clothes before, and I want to look pretty! Mama's words echoing in her head, she forced herself to walk slowly and carefully beside Mama, even if she longed to do otherwise. Oh, please be there, Drake...I just want to see you...

Lottie's wish was granted as she saw Drake in the entryway of the Bingley's mansion, talking to a red-haired woman holding a tiny baby. Immediately a grin spread across her face. "Drake!" she called, delight obvious in her voice as she ran up to greet him, Mama close at her heels. "How are you?" She turned to the lady with a smile. "Hello! I'm Lottie. Is that your baby? He's so sweet!" She grinned down at the infant before her head shot back up, realization dawning. "Oh! Are you Mrs. Bingley?"

Catherine Bingley

“Well, hello…” It was Drake Dekker, of all people. Catherine’s face lit up in a smile as she happily went through the usual greetings with the local law-keeper of Helvaband.

“Oh, Monsieur Dekker, I must pass on to you even an inkling of the compliments Mr. Bingley puts to your name. You are doing an admirable job here, and we’re hoping we get to keep you for a great many years.” Catherine’s ramble was quickly said, and with a great many smiles, pointed and not, but her words were truth, and she meant every one of them. Now, she mentally shifted in a quick frame of time, adjusting the too-darling-for-words Pip tucked under her arm, Drake, tell me…your prospects…

As if in answer to the question that had lingered between the two odd people, keeping Drake at a distance from the meddling woman and only proving Catherine’s point that he would be a good catch (with plenty of mental emphasis that he would definitely have to be caught in the net of some young, pretty soul’s attentions) was absolutely correct, a female voice called eagerly across the growing crowds, hailing the young officer. Catherine couldn’t repress an optimistic smile. She knew the beautiful face, the delicate features and the bright, childish eyes.

“Miss Lottie,” he acknowledged, before briefly turning from her with an, “Excuse me.”

“Of course,” she practically commanded him away with a wave of her hand, “Go on, don’t regret leaving an old woman among her many guests that she has to run around and greet. There are too many pretty faces in the room for me to monopolize you.” She sent him a nod, and made a point to turn into a group of ladies, pulling them over to her side. She made sure to position herself so as to keep one eye on Drake and Lottie, in the meanwhile enjoying the compliments to her son’s signs of health and beauty.

“He has his father’s nose,” one lady said, but Catherine could hardly keep her head in the current conversation.

“Doesn’t he?” she sighed, “And I am so very fortunate that everything went well. Mr. Bingley was so devoted to ensuring we were both as comfortable as possible, and he fairly went into a fit the night of the birth!” She looked up and met Mrs. Fitzgerald’s eyes, seeing Lottie looking exquisite and holding fast on Drake’s attentions. Catherine fancied that she saw a notable difference in the posture and expression of the officer, and she held on to a hopeful dream of furthering that difference. Once Lottie looked over at Catherine, she beamed, waving frantically to the young woman like she was a long-long niece that Catherine had missed dearly, and was overjoyed to see again – which she was, in a way, extremely elated to find the girl looking so rosy and happy, as usual. She hadn’t talked to the child directly, being more friends with her mother, but she knew her nature enough to know that Lottie would love Pip. She waved the small group over, holding Pip a little higher, his reddish face peering out from under arm, silently staring at the world with strangely wide, deep blue eyes.

“Welcome to Helvaband, my dear. I do hope you’ve found everything to your liking. Come, see this beautiful baby boy! I’m sure you’ll find him as darling as I do!” She let out a little giggle, stifling the sound with her free hand, then leaning down to place her face close to the tiny nose of her child.

“Hello! I’m Lottie. Is that your baby? He’s so sweet! ....Oh! Are you Mrs. Bingley?”

She nodded energetically, nearly turning the clock back to her girlhood years, bouncing gently on the spot so as to lull the baby. “Yes, he’s my baby boy. His name is Pip. And it’s so nice to meet you, Ms. Lottie! Your mother and I have met on a few occasions for a casual tea,” she sent a sly, modest look at Lottie’s mother, “She was kind enough to put up with a meddlesome old lady like myself! But never mind that! I was so disappointed to discover that the young beauty named Lottie was not anywhere near for me to meet at any of the times I called on her! And I wanted to meet you so! But forget those regrets, child, I’ve met you now, and you are every bit as lovely as I was told…” she sent Drake a smile, “But I did not know you two were acquainted with our dashing Monsieur Dekker! You have been keeping yourself even more secretive from me, Monsieur! How cruel of you, when you know I just worry about you, so solemn and so lonely! Surely you will consent to at least a half dozen dances tonight, yes? I must insist on taking one of them for myself, since you are such a strong lead, Monsieur!” She switched gears, smoothly leaning closer to Lottie to continue their previous strain, “Lottie, darling, you will call me Aunt Cathy, won’t you? Oh please tell me you will. I cannot stand for the youth to call me ‘Mrs. Bingley’ all the time, and especially at parties, where we are supposed to be having fun and an easy time of it, no? Plus, ‘Aunt Cathy’ falls off the tongue so much easier than ‘Mrs’ anything, I must tell you. I should know, for I have said more than a million ‘Mrs’ this, or ‘Mrs’ that, and it truly gets tiresome. Plus, it will put a distance between us, I think, and I certainly do not want such a space between us two, Lottie darling. Please, promise me you shall always call me ‘Aunt Cathy’, and it will make this old woman so very happy! But my, the youth today are so flawless and beautiful! I often feel as if I am among walking statues from the ancient cities of Rome, the gods and goddesses depicted so regrettably in a cold stone that does not suit their flowing, fickle natures. My dear, you have such a glow to your face that I never possessed! You will never want for love!”

It never ceased to amaze Drake just how wordy Mrs. Catherine Bingley could be. As if the air of Helvaband would be empty without her voice to fill it, and truthfully Drake knew it would seem wrong to have it any other way. After all, the plethora of words was so good at what it did-- the mothering, doting, encouraging, and of course socializing in general. Additionally, Miss Lottie didn't seem to mind it at all, either. In fact, she seemed quite flattered when Mrs. Bingley requested a more familiar address from their newest Helvaband resident.

Drake thought that perhaps he should slip away from the women's conversation, since after all they weren't speaking to him or speaking of anything particularly important... he silently stepped back unnoticed. "Aunt Cathy it is, then! I promise! Drake heard Lottie chirp happily, and he paused his slow withdrawal.

"But my, the youth today are so flawless and beautiful! I often feel as if I am among walking statues from the ancient cities of Rome, the gods and goddesses depicted so regrettably in a cold stone that does not suit their flowing, fickle natures. My dear, you have such a glow to your face that I never possessed! You will never want for love!”

This comment, though not directed to Drake, still caused him to emit a low chortle. Of course it was such a Bingley-ish thing to say, and true, Miss Lottie was a very fair creature, but it was so very much like Mrs. Bingley to automatically start matchmaking, or at least hinting toward it. I wonder who she's got in mind for you already, Miss Lottie...? I'm interested to see where she will take you. His smile grew a smidgen at the thought.

"Oh, Aunt Cathy," protested Miss Lottie, "how can that be true when you're so pretty now? I'm sure you must have been prettier than I am!"

Once more Drake smiled at her words. Lottie's way of speaking was a refreshing change to the subtleties and roundabout speeches of so many that he knew-- no one wanted to say what was on their mind, always trying to hide it or make it easier for the listener to bear. Gilded speech, all of it, even Drake's own oftentimes. But not so with Miss Lottie, and she didn't even realize what a blessing that was.

"Will there be a lot of dancing at the party, Aunt Cathy?" Miss Lottie asked suddenly. "I've never danced before..."

Drake took that as a cue for him to step in to reassure Miss Lottie. She was clearly shy and not used to such events, and he wanted to help remedy that. Such a vibrant girl should not have to be suppressed because of her own shyness and inexperience. "If I may, Miss Lottie, add here that in dance, it is the lady that is the picture and the man is the frame; the lady simply has to follow the man, and as I happen to be a man, would you like me to lead you for a dance or two then, this evening?" After all, he might not have been there just for socializing purposes, but who was he to prevent a girl such as Lottie from enjoying herself and enjoying the privileges of being a lady?

Catherine Bingley

Cathy’s heart leapt with joy as Lottie – dear, sweet, more-innocent-than-any-crude-lamb-in-comparison Lottie – clapped her hands from pure delight in the idea of calling her by a less formal name. “Aunt Cathy it is, then! I promise!”

Ignoring the strange smiles and looks of the faces surrounding them, Cathy flew forward and embraced Lottie in her arms, sharing the hold with her tiny son with all the care of a mother hen dancing around her new egg. “Darling, darling Lottie! Thank you!” She traced a hand down Lottie’s cheek affectionately, her mind fluttering into another sphere entirely. “But my, the youth today are so flawless and beautiful! I often feel as if I am among walking statues from the ancient cities of Rome, the gods and goddesses depicted so regrettably in a cold stone that does not suit their flowing, fickle natures. My dear, you have such a glow to your face that I never possessed! You will never want for love!”

Lottie’s mouth fell open a bit at that. “Oh, Aunt Cathy, how can that be true when you’re so pretty now? I’m sure you must have been prettier than I am!” A pretty blush crept across Lottie’s cheeks, though, and Cathy glanced over at the gentle smile on Drake’s face. Here, she decided, there wasn’t even anything she had to do. Just fan the flame a little and make sure it did not stay too well within the borders of law and legalities, and did not die out as could so quickly happen.

She jumped a little when a hand touched her arm, looking down to see her husband looking up at her with soft and cloudy eyes. ”Hello, my dear..”

“Ah! Mr. Bingley! I’m so glad you’re here now! I want to show you off with your new son!” As she spoke, Richard’s eyes fell on his son, and they sparkled with a new light. She handed Pip over into the arms of his ready and gentle father. “He is still so new, and I know he is so small, but he does weight quite heavily on my frail arms! I am thinking, Mr. Bingley, that I should keep up my walks. They really are the only exercise I can achieve anymore, and I am determined to cling to my thus remaining abilities as a sailor clings to the remaining driftwood that used to be his home on the mother sea! You cannot imagine how happy I am to have him, darling, but really, you should have arrived sooner! Here, let me fix your cuff link, it’s all…all…” her brow furrowed as her fingers fumbled with the cuff, “Well, you understand what I’m trying to say better than I do myself, Mr. Bingley. Surely you know what is going on with it. Now, there, that’s much better. Why! Darling, you two look so matched, and yet so contrasted in an elegant way I cannot put into words! I wish I could capture the sight of you in this instant forever! But I don’t suppose this little one will sit still long enough for a portrait. He is such an active infant, really! Mr. Bingley, you are not going to ignore the dashing Mr. Dekker, are you? Nor these lovely ladies, Lottie and Mrs. Fitzgerald? Please do not neglect them. They are all three such pretty folk!”

Richard’s eyes finally crossed over the small group standing nearby, not answering her question directly but taking into account her comments. “Ah, hello young sir! How have you been getting along? Ah! Miss Lottie, it is so good to see you well!”

“Will there be a lot of dancing at the party, Aunt Cathy?” Miss Lottie asked suddenly, sounding fearful. “I’ve never danced before…”

“There will be lots of dancing I hope, Lottie dear,” she smiled, reassurance in her expression, “But don’t worry. Don’t worry. There are plenty of men who would love to be your partner, new as you are to the task or not. And it isn’t very difficult.”

“Ah, Miss Lottie, parties are for young people to dance! I am sure you will catch on quickly. You are a bright young soul!”

Cathy’s eyes sparkled with pure delight. “Yes! Yes!”

“If I may, Miss Lottie,” Drake interceded quite easily and amiably, ”Add here that in dance, it is the lady that is the picture and the man is the frame; the lady simply has to follow the man, and as I happen to be a man, would you like me to lead you for a dance or two then, this evening?”

Cathy couldn’t resist a little giggle of happiness at how perfectly this worked out between the two of them. She turned to Lottie and clasped their hands together. “Why, Lottie! Mr. Dekker is such a lovely dancer! You should take him up on it! You’ll be in such good hands!” She beamed at Drake, “You are very kind to offer so, Mr. Dekker. I quite appreciate it, although I don’t have any actual ties with the darling, save for our newly awakened friendship!”

She turned to her husband and her child, her face glowing. “Cathy, I do believe these two are perfectly crafted for one another, what do you say? Ah, you two go and dance! It is good for your body and your mind. Not to mention your heart. My dear, forgive me for my delay.” He took one hand away from holding Pip to take her hand. She tightened her fingers, entwining them with his. “How is the party assembling? It is coming along nicely, isn’t it? I see we already have a couple for the dancing…”

“Ah, dear Mr. Bingley! You should look about for yourself! See how many there are?” She gestured around the room, “But we have work to do while the children play at love. I have to ask you about the decorations in the garden. We don’t have nearly enough light out there, and I simply must fix this problem!” She chuckled, a mischievous look in her eyes. “So…help me put out some lights and place some privacy on the premises, shall we? I daresay some of these young folks will be looking for a quiet, sacred place before long.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Daniel Middleton

He stepped out of the carriage and nearly tripped on his own shoes, letting out a little laugh as he reached back in for Isis, feeling a flush on his cheeks and having more than just a light-hearted lift to every step. It was more like an enormous balloon had been blown up to fill the entirety of his chest cavity, and he felt like at any second he would puff up completely and start to float off. Too bad – he was sure he would hit a tree branch or a something and fall to the ground again before he had a chance to really experience floating. “My lady?” he made a little bit of a show of offering his hand to her, but not enough to embarrass her. Just to let out some of that nervous energy that was about to make him explode. Or was it implode?

“You look really beautiful,” he said yet again, straightening out the edge of his jacket-thing with his free hand. “Sorry..I keep saying that, don’t I? Are you all ready to go in?”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lilith Eytinge

“Mr. Dubon…” Lilith stood on the front steps of the Bingley mansion, her carriage already left minutes before. She had chosen to wear a midnight blue gown with trimmings of an eerie black, her long dark hair wrapped to frame her face in contrasting ringlets, brushing against her pale cheeks. She had decided to arrive separately from Nicolas to the party, even if they were definitely determined to remain a public couple at the dance. Lilith couldn’t remember the last time she had only wished to dance with one partner for a whole evening like this. A lot of her purpose in them coming separately, she couldn’t describe to herself. Perhaps she still feared the arrival of Adder at any moment, and a long carriage drive to the enormous and mansion with a million descriptions was, in her mind, a fine opportunity for an evil figure to find her and threaten her directly. Although she had no true reasons for expecting that, her mind would not let the idea go for a fraction of a second. Her excuse to Nicolas himself, for the sake of his piece of mind as well as to allow her to forget her inability to word the unspoken thoughts, was that it would keep alive a little of the magic that had drawn them together from the first. We met at a party, and I tried to evade you entirely. Since you drew me towards you and wouldn’t let me go. Let’s keep a little of the wonderful mystery.

She smiled up at him, standing perhaps a little too close for social standards. “Good evening, Mr. Dubon. You are a little late, aren’t you?”

What a night this would be. This, the night of Sybille's first party away from home, her first main event since her arrival in Helvaband. True, she didn't exactly expect it to be as large or as elegant as those back home, nevertheless she could feel her heart flutter as she rode closer to the Bingley Mansion. Interestingly enough, it was also her fist time meeting the Bingleys, despite her Uncle's assurance that he was quite close with the Mister. Sybille, sheltered she may be, was not born yesterday however. She noticed the nervous look on her Uncle's face, the cold sweat that was forming on his brow. Perhaps he owes them money. Or he was in love with Catherine before she was married...after all, I think he is about her age. Sybille amused herself by musing over possible complications and love triangles for the remainder of the ride.

Once the carriage had pulled to a complete stop Mr. Jallet jumped out and offered his niece a hand, a gesture she took with a nod and a smile. It was true what she had heard; he was not as elegant nor as intelligent as his younger brother, nor was he nearly as handsome. However, what Sybille found was he was a warm, gentle man, insisting upon Sybille's happiness as his utmost priority. He had been so kind as to run about his home finding every piece of literature possible an the evening of Sybille's third night after he realized how much she loved to read. Granted, he did not own many, the thought was sweet enough to melt her heart. Besides, it would be best to get along with whomever one may live with, especially when the only money they will accept is for medical bills and travel.

Stepping down, Sybille took a moment to soak it in. It was not THE biggest party she had attended, but she was pleasantly surprised by the size. Who knew a small place like Helvaband could have such a large mansion? The entryway especially was impressive, filled with mingling townspeople dress in their best. Sybille herself was feeling rather stylish; what, in her blue dress that draped about her shoulders, pinned around the waist, and bustled slightly in the back. Though she would rather have worn crimson, she always felt embarrassed in such harsh colours, thinking they contrasted with her skin and hair. Still, she couldn't hide her smile as a couple heads turned. She imagined their heartbeats quickening, their minds racing, their feet itching to make their way over to where she stood... but alas, as soon as they saw, they would turn their heads again in a nonchalant manner, as if to say 'oops, my bad.'

”Look, there she is. The new mother.” Uncle Jallet nodded his head towards a woman who stood in the middle of a large group. A man (she assumed it was her husband) stood next to her, holding the tiniest baby Sybille had ever seen. ”Why don't you go introduce yourself?” With a nod, she made her way over to the group, stepping in just as she was saying something.

”You are very kind to offer so, Mr. Dekker. I quite appreciate it, although I don’t have any actual ties with the darling, save for our newly awakened friendship!” Recognizing the surname, Sybille turned to see the other two standing near. Sure enough, one of them was Drake, and Sybille felt herself blushing at the memory of her clumsiness. Sending him a nod of acknowledgment, she turned back to the new mother.

“Excuse my intrusion, but I would like to congratulate you.” She shifted her eyes towards the child. “Why, isn't he just the sweetest thing.” Lifting her hand, she waved at the boy, resisting from cooing at him.

Oh, Drake, you're doing it to me again, aren't you? Stealing my breath from me, making it impossible to breathe. Why do you do that to me? Why do I let you? Why can't I ask you? Is this...is this what Lilith was talking about that day, when I met here in the cemetery? That was so long ago...there was still snow on the ground then!

If she had to pick, Aunty Cathy was probably her favorite person she had met in Helvaband--not counting Drake, of course. Lottie wasn't used to being around someone who was so happy, who talked so much and had so many nice things to say. Why didn't you tell me about her, Mama? As the talk turned to dancing, Lottie felt her cheeks growing hot once again. Making me blush...I never used to blush before I came here... A man that Lottie vaguely recognized, who sat in a strange chair with wheels that he apparently used to get around, made his way over to them. Lottie tilted her head curiously at the newcomer.

The man in the wheelchair--he had kind eyes, so Lottie decided she liked him--seemed to know her. . “Ah! Miss Lottie, it is so good to see you well!” Lottie grinned at him. "Thank you! You know me, but I don't remember who you are. Why do you have to sit in that?" She pointed to the chair for an instant before Mama gently slapped her hand away. "Charlotte Annabelle Fitzgerald! That was incredibly rude. Apologize at once."

Lottie hid her hands behind her back and looked at the floor, feeling ashamed. "I'm sorry," she said quietly. "I just wanted to know." She glanced back at the man. "Are you all right? You look tired."

"Will there be a lot of dancing at the party, Aunt Cathy?" Lottie asked, forgetting about her bad question even as Mama shook her head disapprovingly at her. "I've never danced before..." But I want to. With you, Drake. So badly... “There will be lots of dancing I hope, Lottie dear. But don’t worry. Don’t worry. There are plenty of men who would love to be your partner, new as you are to the task or not. And it isn’t very difficult.” “Ah, Miss Lottie, parties are for young people to dance! I am sure you will catch on quickly. You are a bright young soul!” So many people talking at once...

Lottie beamed at him. "Thank you, Mister...Mister Bingley!" Yes! That's it! He's Aunty Cathy's husband, and the new baby's papa! That's who he is! Oh, it must be great to have a papa like that...I wish I remembered mine... "But...what if I mess up? They'll laugh at me."

Drake spoke, making Lottie's stomach do cartwheels. “If I may, Miss Lottie, add here that in dance, it is the lady that is the picture and the man is the frame; the lady simply has to follow the man..."

Lottie interrupted him, concentration on her face as she tried to dig up a memory from long ago. "Someone told me once that...a dance is like a conversation, except you don't ever have to talk...is that right?"

"...and as I happen to be a man, would you like me to lead you for a dance or two then, this evening?”

"Okay!" said Lottie excitedly, clapping her hands. Catching Mama's eye, she stopped and folded her hands in front of her. "That is...if Mama say I can?" she added, pleading.

Before Mama could reply, Aunty Cathy laughed happily. “Why, Lottie! Mr. Dekker is such a lovely dancer! You should take him up on it! You’ll be in such good hands! You are very kind to offer so, Mr. Dekker. I quite appreciate it, although I don’t have any actual ties with the darling, save for our newly awakened friendship!” Lottie giggled. "Friends forever?"

“Cathy, I do believe these two are perfectly crafted for one another, what do you say?" said Mister Bingley, turning to Aunty Cathy. Lottie felt herself turning red again. I heard Polly say something once, about being in love...'my heart's an open book.' I'm not too sure what that means, but if Aunty Cathy and everyone can see that I like Drake...then is my heart an open book?

And if it really is an open book, and everyone else can see how I'm feeling...then why can't you, Drake?

"Ah, you two go and dance! It is good for your body and your mind. Not to mention your heart. My dear, forgive me for my delay.How is the party assembling? It is coming along nicely, isn’t it? I see we already have a couple for the dancing…”

"May I, Mama? May I dance with Drake?"

Mama glanced over at Aunty Cathy quickly before a little smile appeared on her face. "I suppose so. Go and enjoy yourself, Lottie."

"Oh, thank you, Mama! Thank you!" She turned to Drake, smiling so wide she felt her face might fall off. If you only knew."

"Shall we? For you, both a lady and a beginner, I can promise it won't be so hard as you fear. I'd wager you've got natural talent for it, too, when you start into the sport." He held out his hand, and Lottie took it as a new girl joined their little group. "All right," she said, losing some of her confidence. "But you have to show me what to do..."

OOC: I quote a very wise hobbit when I say, “I have put this off for far too long.” I will be combining most of my characters into one post. If you have question or need more specific actions/dialogue/etc, please message me. :3 BIC:

Abelinda Wyn

This was getting too far out of hand. Abelinda’s gown swept at her feet viciously as she stormed through, the wind spinning at her heels as she hissed spells that conjured up colorful rays of deceitful light, dancing across the floor. Her brow furrowing, she spun her hands out at her sides and threw open the back doors of the Bingley mansion, determined to get Adder Napier dead, or out of Helvaband forever. She could feel the ground shake as she entered the ballroom, her eyes scanning the entire room with narrowed eyes, her lips pursed and tight. A number of strange creatures crawled at her feet, a long, snake-like creature writhing its way around her legs while she waited, peering into the faces of the crowd. Frustrated, she let out a scream, the ancient word drawing her eyes to a figure among the crowd she did not recognize at first, but knew was Adder. It had always been a trouble when he was younger, the way he could change his shape as he wished, and did so at every opportunity. But she knew the eyes were different. They were a piercing shade, and they held the knowledge of who she was.

“You imbecile!” she shrieked, her temper rising to match her hair. It was loose around her face, the ends being toyed with by dark imps that were only the size of her thumb. They tugged playfully on the crimson tendrils as she stepped toward Adder. “Was the entire free world not enough for you? Must you always intervene where you do not belong and are not wanted? I do not know how you managed to pass by this time, but I do not even wish to know. Just get out! You do not belong here, and if you stay, I swear it upon the graves of those much more sacred than either you or I, I will kill you myself as I should have done years ago.”

At Adder’s side stood a young girl with dark hair and pale skin, looking fearfully between Adder and Abelinda, not understanding the history with the two redheads. She turned to Adder, seeing the change in him and backing away, murmuring, “...You…?” But she was stopped from running away by a hand from the demon Abelinda had thought herself rid of.

Standing upright, Abelinda held aloft one pale arm, bringing it down slowly to point it accusingly at Adder’s blue eyes, the curse of their family. A curse waited behind her lips while she hissed out a single question.

“What say you…brother?”

Letting out a snarling sound, she tossed down her arm, a spark of flames rising up and eating away while the crowd surrounding flew back. “What say you, brother!?”

Zuco Izam

Zuco was running, trying to get to the party on time and before Heather. But what he saw when he got there was surprising... to say the least.

The hosts of the party were dead.. the Bing-somethings. The old man's wheelchair was unoccupied and rolling slightly still....There seemed to be a third person as well- one that he did not recognize. His eyes widened as he slowly took in the scene around him. A familiar red-headed woman was standing there with things crawling all over her and everything was dead silent. The hairs on the back of his undead neck stood on end as he stared at the bodies crumpled on the ground like they were life-sized dolls. The ugly little bird in his hands made awkward noises as usual, but he didn't pay attention to it. The familiar smell of blood assaulted him and he could feel his mouth beginning to water. His teeth aching to rip into something raw and living.

"Ambrose." came a voice that he didn't recognize but his eyes went straight to him nonetheless... then he looked all around him, even turning to see the entrance just in case the vampyre he detested was actually there or if he had only caught a part of what the stranger had said. He wasn't. Normally, he would have stepped forward to show the person that there was no Ambrose there, but he hadn't fed for an entire day and the smell of fresh blood assaulted his senses, even if it wasn't much it still affected him. "There is no Ambrose here, stranger." he said, noting how he kept looking at him. He smirked, looking towards the familiar form of a woman, focusing on her red hair. "Now there's no reason to go about killing randomly. They were such lovely people." Zuco gestured to the corpses slightly, smirk still on his face.