[h1][center][color=firebrick]Violet[/color] , [color=f26522]Roman[/color] & [color=1e4fff] Crystal[/color][/center][/h1]

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Roman bowed to his dance partner slightly and stepped back as everyone seemed to be finishing up as well. [color=f26522]“I look forward to seeing you again Shehzadi Mayet, I do hope the two of you enjoy the rest of your night.”[/color] He really did think the two of them would make a good fighting pair and possibly grow to be good friends. This year’s dance did seem to be more fun and friendly than the last time he was here. Who knew that so many could change in a few years with so many new faces. 

Moving back towards the food table as the two parted ways for now, he found himself stopped by a masked man with a letter. It was an invitation to the after party. Curious, he hadn’t been to one of those in a while and could use a good drink and a chance to be loud and have some fun. Roman could only wonder who set up the party this time and who would be invited. The last time he was invited he got in a fight with some noble party crashers that found out about the party, breaking jaws was never so easy. 

Tucking the letter in his interior shirt pocket as not to lose it, the lord continued on his way through the crowd. Passing the food table for a moment as it was crowded and grabbed a couple small pieces of meat and a couple oyster shells. Glancing around for a moment to try and spot Violet from his vantage point was fruitless so he opted to return to the balcony to eat and enjoy the night air away from the sounds and smells of the ball room.

As Crystal gave Charlotte an extra push when they separated she smiled as she watched her walk towards Lord Leo. As much as she wanted to go to meet him she wanted to make sure Violet got her dance with the bear. She turned to walk back to her sister and stopped when she realized she disappeared. She blinked a few times and looked around. She didn’t see her. 

She frowned slightly. Did she go hide to read a book? She let out a huff as held her hands in her lap as she got on her toes to gain some sight…to no avail. However, as she looked, she saw Lord Ravenwood standing out on the balcony. She moved her upper body side to side as she stood on her toes to see if he was standing with anyone, but she couldn’t quite see with everyone walking around. 

She thought for a moment as she settled back onto her heels and only a second passed before she thought of a brilliant plan. She quickly moved towards Lord Ravenwood, her heels clacking as she did, saying excuse me or pardon me as she squeezed by other nobles or servants. Once she was close enough she stopped, took a moment to breathe. For two reasons, to work up her nerves and get ready for her little ‘act’. Once she was ready, she slowly walked out onto the balcony. 

She put one hand to her mouth as she walked up to Lord Ravenwood and looked back to the crowd. Making quite sure she didn’t see her sister so he wouldn’t catch onto her ploy. Looking back she then spoke softly, [color=1e4fff] U-um… E-excuse me… Sir?”l[/color] Her hand covering her chin and bottom lip as she looked up to him. When he would look at her she would continue after glancing down at the ground. [color=1e4fff]”Could you possibly… help me?”[/color] She smiled as a little genuine embarrassment could be seen on her face as she looked back at him. She could see why Vi was so attracted to him…at least physically at the moment. A little redness spread across her cheeks. As she met his eyesight. 

Dropping her hand to her lap and gripping her other hand with it.[color=1e4fff]”It would seem I am a bit lost, and cannot find my sister. If only I were as tall as you, maybe I could spot her quite easily.” [/color] She said with a nervous chuckle. 

A breath of fresh air was exactly what the man needed, being used to smokey conditions was one thing but there was some sort of perfume being used out in the ballroom that he did not find pleasant. Gazing up at the stars and then to the courtyard he barely noticed the light footsteps approaching him from behind. A small sound was all he heard behind him but didn't pay any attention to it at first, almost like a mouse in a thunderstorm. It did take a few moments but his mind did eventually catch on that the mouse was saying words.

Turning from the balcony he spotted the small girl that ran off from the dance floor earlier, [color=f26522]
“Can I assist you with something?”[/color] his mouth spoke before his mind could catch up to the fact that she did ask him for help. She was smaller than he thought she would be with an almost timid nature about her. He couldn't help but link her similarities with his youngest sister and the baby of the family Sasha. Relaxing his posture and giving her a small smile trying to appear as non threatening as he could.

She blinked. Was he slightly deaf? She thought she spoke up loud enough. She cleared her throat and stood up straighter, as if it would help her speak louder. [color=1e4fff] I’m sorry to bother you... But would it be possible if you can help me find my sister? I-I Simply cannot find her.” [/color] She looked at the crowd of people as if to show how hard it would be. Then back to him.[color=1e4fff] I saw you quite easily through the crowd … so i assumed you could easily find her. I could describe her to you.”[/color] She said with a bigger hopeful smile. 

It seemed she needed help finding someone if her words were true, he didn't blame her as she was quite small, [color=f26522]“well then how about introductions first as it is only polite. I am Lord Roman Ravenwood of Emberstone Stronghold. Who might you be? If you don't want to tell me that's fine I will likely just give you a nickname instead.”[/color] Roman continued to smile at her and wondered just how she would reply.

 [color=1e4fff][i]shoot! I can't tell him my name.”[/i][/color] She thought as she quickly said  [color=1e4fff]”I-I-I’m so sorry! How terribly rude of me, Lord Ravenwood.”[/color] She gave him a quick curtsey as she quickly decided on what to do and once she did she hoped he really was slightly deaf. [color=1e4fff]”As much as I would love a nickname, Lord Ravenwood we only just met.”[/color] She said with a giggle. [color=1e4fff]My name is Lady Crystal Hamein.[/color] She said, kinda lowering her voice as she said Hamien. So when he realized it was Violet she could fibb saying ‘I did say Damien.’. She gave him a smile as she rose from her curtsey.

The giant of a man calmly stared down at her as she introduced herself to him, he couldn't help but furrow his brow at her for a moment. Not because of the stutter or hesitation but because she seemed to lower her voice at the mention of her surname. He couldn't tell if she was embarrassed by the name or wanted to keep her last name a secret. [color=f26522]“Lady Crystal Hamien?”[/color] he looked at her incredulously, [color=f26522]“you were quiet as you spoke your last name so forgive me if i sound rude, this is not a trick correct? The first time I came to this gathering some of the other boys tricked me into looking for someone named Mike Oxmaul about a new type of forging hammer he created and it took me the better part of an hour asking around the ball before someone had to spell it out for me.”[/color] Again his smile returned and brow flattened, [color=f26522]“so you are not trying to trick me, yes?”[/color] It was embarrassing for him about the incident but it kept his father and uncles laughing for weeks afterwards.

 [color=1e4fff][i]You’re killin me smalls…[/i][/color] She thought to herself. She blinked a few times, at the fact he wasn’t letting it go, and the story that came with it. Now she felt almost guilty for her own innocent joke she was attempting to pull on the man.  [color=1e4fff]”L-L-Lord Ravenwood…”[/color] She said looking away, blushing as she did feinting processing the information of his lewd joke experience. But it was really for deciding what to do. 

 [color=1e4fff]”I-I am sorry, you were a victim of a cruel and quite vulgar joke. But that is not my intention. I simply wanted some help.” [/color] She looked back to the crowd  [color=1e4fff]”I suppose I was a bit forward in asking…Forgive my intrusion.”[/color] She said as she took a step away from.

Roman sighed with a small smile seeing the young lady step back, [color=f26522]“My apologies, I tend to have issues with social interactions… What does your sister look like? Height, hair color, and what she is wearing are a good start.”[/color] he hoped he didn't leave a bad first impression on this little mouse, if he did he would have to make it up to her somehow.

 She looked back to him and seeing him smile she lowered her shoulders just a tad, with a soft smile of her own.[color=1e4fff]”I-it is alright Lord Ravenwood…I a-also not very good with social interactions as well.” [/color] She said as she brought her hands up to her chest. Glad her plan was back on track.  [color=1e4fff]Well, do believe me when I say this…[/color] She said with a grin. [color=1e4fff]She has the black hair that almost looks like the night sky that sometimes even looks slightly blue. I know with me being a blonde… It's true! She has very pale skin, silver eyes and about my height. Maybe a tad shorter. Which she does hate as she is my older sister.[/color] She said with a bit of glee. Her frame wiggled ever so slightly side to side as she was proud of herself in gaining that extra inch on her.

  [color=1e4fff]”She is wearing a black dress, with a loose shirt and black corset.”[/color] She left out the part of the Raven’s embroidered on it, as it would probably not be seen at a distance. While her description was unique, she was sure it would give it away instantly.

The description this Lady crystal was giving sounded very much like Violet but their names are different but very similar. Cousins perhaps or half sisters? Romans thoughts wandered while his gaze returned to the sky, [color=f26522]“Silver eyes that hold mysteries beyond comprehension, as if she fell from the silvery stars to grace us with heavenly beauty.”[/color] he spoke quietly to himself then returned his gaze to Crystal. [color=f26522]“I can only assume there are a few who could match the beautiful young lady you may be speaking of.”[/color] eyes lifting off her and scanning around the room only to catch a glimpse of violet near the food table reading a book, [color=f26522]“to the food table then for my first guess.”[/color] Crystal did tell him she wasn't joking so he didn't think she was trying to trick him as he began walking toward the refreshment table.

Crystal leaned closer as he spoke softly to himself, but she managed to hear what he said. Her eyes grew wide as she blinked a few times. She felt her own heart flutter at the description of her sister.[color=1e4fff][i]Oh….wow…[/i][/color] She thought to herself. Was this man also a wordsmith? Making a mental note to write that down and use it later, she was pulled from her thoughts as he just suddenly walked away. 

She was shocked that he just… left her there. [color=1e4fff][i]”Why does she always like the awkward ones…”[/i][/color] Crystal thought to herself with a giggle as she quickly caught up to him. His long strides were followed with a triple of hers. [color=1e4fff]”I..um I’m sorry…you sound like you know her?”[/color] She said as she tried to keep up. Holding up her dress just slightly not to accidentally step on it with this fast pace.

Slowing his pace slightly, realizing that the other girl had trouble keeping up as he parted the crowd. [color=f26522]“Your description reminds me of someone that I talked to earlier in the evening. She has the most beautiful scars. It is a shame she hides them.”[/color] he spoke towards her as he continued excusing himself with occasionally bumping into others or walking in between them as they talked. The black dress and dark hair of the one he spotted earlier grew closer with each step until he finally parted the crowd to a small opening between himself and The Lady. 

His hesitation only lasted a moment and he hoped the other girl didn't run into him as he stopped nearly dead in his tracks. The fireflies in his stomach returned with each step toward violet, [color=f26522]“Lady Violet Damien.”[/color] He spoke as he walked up to her, his smile returning to his face, [color=f26522]“I have someone here who might have been looking for you.”[/color]

Crystal smiled when he mentioned her scars…he did realize saying that confirmed she opened her shirt to him. [color=1e4fff][i]Please…for the love of God…Do not say that in front of father…[/i][/color] She thought to herself. She let out a small oop. When he suddenly stopped, managing not to run into him just in time. She looked up to see him just stare at her for a moment and she felt her heart flip. He spoke up again, walking towards Violet. Crystal walked behind and to the side of Roman, but as Violet would look at her she would her little sister grinning like a little girl. So excited to see them interact. The smile quickly died down to a normal smile as she moved now around Roman and said [color=1e4fff] “Vi VI I was wondering where you went!”[/color]

 She stopped in between the two and gave Violet a very specific look before giving her a hug. [color=1e4fff]”I didn’t realize you two already spoke.”[/color] She looked towards Roman and with a warm smile said, [color=1e4fff]” You Sir…are a tease, Making me describe my sister. Despite hearing my last name.”[/color] She was so excited she could hardly contain her joy. The man almost ruined her plans… but she won. Oh it felt so much better in real life than in her books.

Violet stood silent, reading her book while devouring one glass of wine after the other. The constant lines about coffee and the large paragraphs focused on the brewing of coffee made violet raise a brow. She started to wonder if her sister was taking up a new hobby as a coffee farmer.

She put the small book into her pocket as she finished off her last glass of wine. Her face was pink , with all the wine taking effect on her small frame. She leaned against the table, using it to slightly hoist herself steady as she spoke to herself “ So that is what that feels like…” she had never been buzzed off her drink before, but it was helping steady her nerves more.

While she steadied herself she heard a deep voice call her name. Her heart fell into the pit of her stomach as she would recognize that voice anywhere. She turned her head to see Roman standing in front of her , greeting her with a smile as just the look on his face sent sparks over her body. Her eyes widened slightly as she stumbled slightly before standing up to curtsy. 

[color=firebrick]”Lord Ravenwood, wha- “ [/color] She was interrupted when she heard her sisters gleeful voice peak near her. She stood up , her hand still on the table as she looked over at crystal, her eyes searing into her as she thought “you…didn’t…you little-” She forced a smile on her face to her sister[color=firebrick] “ Crystal, I thought you had something to do with Charlotte. I am so sorry my Lord I hope she didn’t bother you” [/color]


Roman almost laughed at Violet's condition, one he had seen many times, too much wine on an empty stomach. The words from her dear sister did make him stifle that smile and laugh as he soon realized he had been tricked again. His gaze shifting from violet to crystal a flash of fire behind his eyes, [color=f26522]“it is quite alright, even though i did ask her not to trick me it seems that she did anyway… that is an action she will regret at some point this summer, i can assure you Lady Crystal Damien that it will not harm you but i can also be a trickster in my own way.”[/color] he finished what he had to say with a devilish smile that soon faded to his normal smile refocusing on her sister.

Stepping up to her and carefully grabbing her hand with his and her forearm with his other he helped to steady violet. [color=f26522]“I see you got lost in your book and didn't notice how much wine you drank. It's no worry, drink some water and eat some bread.”[/color] his smile remained but he would let go if she resisted his strong arms trying to keep her steady while also trying to make it look appropriate. [color=f26522]“I would love to carry you through the next dance but I do not believe it would be appropriate. That's if you would do me the honor of having this next dance with you? If not then maybe Crystal would enjoy a dance?”[/color] He knew he might be pushing it a little but he did want to dance with Violet.

Crystal could feel her sister's anger with her with her glare. She only returned a smug smile as if to say [i]“Yes I did”[/i]. [color=1e4fff]”I told you Vi, I just had to talk with her for a moment.. When I turned around you were gone.”[/color] She gave her a look that clearly said,[i]When I said don’t give up on the bear I DIDN'T MEAN GET DRUNK[/i] She started to get nervous and looked hurt when Violet tried to apologize for her. But then Lord Ravenwood simply smiled. 

He knew he was tricked again, But she wasn’t going to admit it so quickly. She looked hurt. [color=1e4fff]”Lord Raven I did not trick you! I told you my name. You were the one who didn’t hear my request in the first place, and I had to repeat myself remember? Perhaps you should have a physician check your hearing?” [/color] She let out a huff, [color=1e4fff]”As much as I would like to enjoy a dance, I am sadly already taken for this one. Violet would love to dance with you I’m sure.”[/color]

Violet stood there, her weight shifted onto Romen as she just stared for an awkward amount of time , her silver eyes focused on his. Blinking, she pulled herself together for a moment before looking down at his grip on her. [color=firebrick] “ Thank you, Lord Ravenwood ..I-..” Her grip on his arm tightened as she steadied her legs. [color=firebrick] “ I am okay..really.” she smiled at him. Her pink face reddened as he mentioned carrying her [color=firebrick] “ I ..wouldn’t be opposed to that…I have never been one to care what others think. Why start now?” [/color] she smiled playfully. She continued to ignore her sister as her eyes were locked onto Romans. [color=firebrick] “ A dance? Yes, I would love a dance, I really enjoy dancing”[/color] she lied, but with him she would. She had just left the dance floor after two steps with the prince , but she could simply spend all night dancing with Lord Ravenwood. 

Her mind clicked slightly as she looked away from him for a moment, her face brighter red then what it was as she realized all the things she was thinking she just spoke out loud. Straightening herself she smiled nervously[color=firebrick] “ I'm sorry, I’ve never had so much to drink in my life before. “ [/color]

Roman couldn't help but glare slightly at Crystal for what she said but chose not to answer and shift his focus to Violet. [color=f26522]“Here, eating some of this will help.”[/color] reaching over to grab some small pieces of bread and hold it out to her. [color=f26522]“My family drinks a lot at celebrations, we don't always have the opportunity and it's always fun with laughter and the odd fight.”[/color] this girl was definitely going to be fun if this watered down wine could do this to her. 

The giant chuckled for a moment with his smile, [color=f26522]“Tell me Violet, what is your family known for? Are you good at shipping, good at being merchants or miners, maybe even farmers?”[/color] he hoped she wouldn't be put off by him inquiring about what their family does as he continues to help assist Violet with standing.

Crystal stood there quite shocked when Violet completely ignored her. She never saw her sister act like this… She was focused solely on the man who now held her, Another thing that surprised her was the glare from Lord Ravenwood, and the total dismissal of her as he focused on Violet. The joy that once filled her was now replaced with a sting of hurt. What did she do? She thought she was being playful… Did she just annoy the both of them with her comment?


She stood there awkwardly for a moment slightly confused with the situation. Her stomach rolled with a flurry of confusing emotions. She forced a smile and pointed awkwardly towards nothing to her right and slowly slipped away.[color=1e4fff][i] Lovely…Perhaps I should just stick to books…[/i][/color] She thought to herself as she looked towards the wine. She reached out and played with one of the empty crystal glasses by rolling it on its base a few times. Before stopping and deciding to walk to the edge of the room.