Thread: Noblesse Obligé [Ghostwolf and Thaedael]

As the Hero of the Imperium introduced himself and his aide, Elizabeth inclined her head towards them in greeting. As he bowed before her, she took the opportunity to quickly look him up and down appreciatively, taking in the sight of him. He cut an impressive figure in his uniform, looking every bit worthy of his title. Up close she could see the true extent of his scarring. It was worse than it originally appeared when she saw him on the holoscreen, running down the length of his face and somewhat hidden between the stubble that was growing in. Still, rather than being repulsed by it, Elizabeth found she rather liked it. It did very little to detract from his appearance ,instead adding to it, giving him that rugged, grizzled veteran look causing his outward appearance to portray his experience. She wanted to touch it, to find out how he earned it. She thought about feeing his rough stubble against her fingers, running her hands through his messy hair. Yes, from appearances, Ilya Garin might just be what Elizabeth needed to liven things up a bit. Yet out of everything, it was his eyes that drew her attention. There was something about them that captivated her, something different. Full lips, painted a soft shimmering shade of pink, formed into a coy smile as he took her hand, pressing his lips to the skin, no doubt able to smell the subtle sweet fragrance that cloaked her. It was an action she was used to but she was slightly taken aback in this instance, surprised. It was an unexpected display of protocol to come from such a man. In the past, the Heroes and returning Veterans she had met had all been salutes, short sharp responses and stern words, or they stammered to get the simplest sentence out in her presence. A hint of colour began to bloom upon the pale skin of her cheeks as Elizabeths eyes met his as he straightened up. He repeated the action with Clara who stood at Elizabeths side. Her dark hair was gathered over her shoulder, a pale yellow a-line dress with a pleated skirt brushed her curves teasingly, her figure fuller than Elizabeths. Silver threading and sequins adorned the bodice in spiral patterns, drawing attention to her considerable bust, while the neckline was low enough to show a great deal of tantalising dcolletage, her breasts lifted high with a deep valley between them. She stood with her torso angled slightly towards the Aide, as if displaying her assets to the veteran. As Ilya bowed and took her hand, Clara nodded and smiled at him, taking the opportunity to give Elizabeth a look she knew to be one of approval. Then it was Victorias turn to greet the nobles, starting with Elizabeth. She inclined her head politely, giving the woman a warm smile. She seemed to be at ease in the setting, certainly the most from the retinue that accompanied Ilya, if not the most relaxed veteran in the whole room. As Elizabeth looked at the woman, she almost felt a pang of jealousy that Clara had set eyes upon her first. She was rather beautiful, especially in the form hugging uniform and the way her hair accentuated the features of her face. Then the Aide repeated the action, and Clara couldnt help but grin slightly as the woman kissed her hand. Elizabeth knew what her friend would be thinking, or she could have a good guess at least. She would no doubt be thinking of better places the woman could put her lips. With that grin on her face, Clara was like a wolf. A predator tracking down her prey, stalking it and getting close, waiting to pounce. Elizabeth knew how her friend worked, for she was not much different herself. Clara would rush things however eager to get the end result she wanted. Elizabeth was the more subtle of the pair, she was patient, she could wait for it to play out, enjoy the chase until the time was right, but in the end she always got what she wanted. The introductions were done, and the Hero responded to her question. Good! I am pleased to hear that. The Governor and his friends do like to pride themselves on their hospitality. Do not be afraid to speak up if there is anything you need or would like that has not been provided. Someone will see to it she spoke cheerily, her voice well mannered and clearly one belonging to the upper class, her eyes moving between Ilya and his Aide as she addressed both of them. Then the Hero asked Elizabeth a question of his own. She thought for a moment, her lips pursed and parted slightly and her head rocked side to side gently as she formulated her opinion. Hm, yes, its acceptable, much better than some of those in the past. Although, I have to admit I find the whole thing a little she paused to search for a polite word. Tiresome these days. Ive witnessed so many, you see. Oh, I dont. I always find something that interests me. Clara interrupted, taking that opportunity to look at Victoria. Well yes, there is always something to be enjoyed Elizabeth nodded in agreement with her friend, smiling warmly at Ilya. But for the most part, they are the same. It is the same ceremonies, the parade and the graduation, and then this reception. The same music is played, the same food is served, and the same people of Vorlancia attend. It just gets old after a while. I know Im one of very few to share that opinion. But you understand what I mean, dont you? A loud laugh drew her attention away from Ilya for a moment, the booming amusement of Iactus which had several guests looking in his direction as he listened to a tale. As she glanced around the room, her eyes met her fathers within the crowd. Upon seeing who she was speaking too, he gave her a reassuring smile and nodded approvingly. She was doing well so far, and there was no harm in playing along for now. She inclined her head towards her father, smiling politely, before turning her attention back to Ilya. The light on his breastplate caught her attention before she looked up at him from under long dark lashes. Your breastplate is a fine piece of craftsmanship Sir, but forgive me, I do not recognise the Saint? Im afraid I was one to neglect my lessons as her child Elizabeth asked him curiously, inclining her head in question.