Thread: Clashing of the Royals ( Ava & Bloody Ava )

Nicholas found a particular comfort in the rules and rhythm of dancing that he had yet to find in anything else except perhaps when he had a sword in his hand. As Eola's hand settled upon his shoulder he drew in a slight breath as there was a brief moment of stillness. The band settled their instruments back into place, lips settled upon mouthpieces and bows settled against strings. A slow tune began to fill the hall, all eyes upon the couple as they began to waltz and turn, moving gracefully with each step to the sway of the music. Moments passed, all watching the newly weds while the Prince's vivid eyes traced out their pathway across the dance floor. The melody began to swell, growing louder and swifter, as suddenly as the stillness had fallen upon the hall it had disappeared once more and the floor was alive with couples moving and twirling about the guests of honour. His hands were steady, arms strong as they supported his bride through the rise and fall of each move, sure footed, Nicholas even dared to smile as he led his wife about the dance floor. Tobias dipped his head graciously as the young lady's eyes swept round to rest upon him for but a moment, straightening and settling a hand comfortably against the hilt of the sword ever present at his hip as Lydia turned back toward the dance floor. He too sought out the familiar figure of his Lord, following the couple as they wove their way in and out of the others occupying the floor. For a moment, he too could almost believe that Nicholas would be a caring and attentive husband, that perhaps all his concerns were for nought. A frown creased the young man's brow as he spared a glance back toward the concerned features of the young woman at his side. Lydia. A pleasure. Everything about the knight was neat and proper. His armour polished until it gleamed, his cape not quite long enough that it would sweep across the dirty floor, short hair brushed and in place. He was from a common family and yet he spoke well, as if he had been educated with the nobles of the land, and his face held a certain resemblance to the Captain of the Guard whom still sat at his table face alight with mirth at something or other. It is indeed, a fine day of celebrations...once they actually commenced. Tobias' lips pursed slightly, carefully rolling his right shoulder as he returned his gaze to the dance floor. I am sure your Lady has been introduced to a number of people this evening, perhaps if I could be so bold to point out a few people of importance to you? At this suggestion, the knight's dark eyes swept the room for the individuals in question, I am sure you will be able to deduce whom to avoid and whom to trust given time, but I would not wish you to fall foul off anyone on your first few days, but perhaps that is a conversation we can have later... It had occurred to him that it may not be wise to speak of individuals while they were within the same room as them, If I can assist in anyway, to smooth either yourself or your Lady's time here within the Palace then please do not hesitate to ask. I am the crowned Prince's Protector and by extension your Lady's as well. By now the music was winding down, couples drifting toward the outskirts of the dance floor to part ways or perhaps return to their tables for a time. The Prince and Princess had parted and were sharing a few quiet words, but Tobias could guess roughly what was being said. I believe your Lady might need you... Whether the young woman made a move toward her Mistress or not, the Knight dipped his head respectfully and began to make his own way through the crowd and toward Nicholas and Eola. The dance had indeed been pleasant, even Nicholas could not deny this, and as he escorted his partner to the edge of the dance floor he felt a slight pang of disappointment - one that was swiftly pressed aside. By all means, I would not wish you to over-tire yourself. A faint smirk touched his lips as the Prince raised his head to find that the very man he had been about to look for was already making his way toward them. Tobias, be so kind as to escort my wife up to our chambers, ensure she has all she needs. The dark haired knight bowed deeply without a word of complaint or reproach, stepping back to allow the couple to say their temporary goodbyes. I will join you shortly, there are a number of people I must greet before I retire for fear of offending them. There was certainly an element of truth to this, it would do no good to burn bridges that you might later rely on and a King was nothing without allies. The fact that he also wished to consume another few goblets of wine and perhaps converse with a few less important dignitaries, was of course left unmentioned. Sir Tobias here will show you the way, he will see to it that you are settled and comfortable. He raised the hand that he had been absently holding all this time to his lips and kissed it lightly before taking his leave, working his way through the crowd. My Lady? Tobias spoke quietly, gesturing to his right and toward a set of doors that would lead away from the bustle of the Great Hall. I can wait for you at the door should you wish to say goodnight to your family before you retire...