[hider=The Butterfly Effect][center][b][h1][color=BBC7E1]Charlotte[/color] & [color=00aeef]Kazumin[/color][/h1][/b][/center]

Charlotte had turned on her heels to try to locate her father. She got up on her tippy-toes and craned her neck as she struggled to relocate him in the crowd. It was probably a good idea to inform him that he had been dancing with an insane woman. People were dispersing all over the place as their dances had finished.  Her heels fell back down and she frowned. Shoulders brushed past her and made her almost stumble from her spot. She began to push through people to get out of the center and back towards the sidelines.

As she was walking, she was able to spot a familiar blonde cow-lick nearby over the heads of some nearby guests. Charlotte halted and sighed as she recalled her earlier statement to approach the man. For Crystal’s sake, she moved forward toward him, rubbing her arm with one hand. She had imagined herself charging toward him and epically pointing her finger in accusation, but instead, she had meekly said with a wave, [color=BBC7E1]“Um, excuse me. Hi. Could I speak with you please?”[/color]

[b]A few minutes prior to this meeting-[/b]
The door to the bathroom stall Kazu had rushed into opened with a relieved huff of air.”[color=00aeef] Wheeew that was a close one.[/color]” The dance with Percy had been immensely wild and entertaining, but all the jumping and jostling combined with the drug and wine hit his stomach with a huge bomb where he had just narrowly made a mess. With the business taken care of, Kazu made his way over to the sink; humming away as he washed his hands and cleaned the sweat from his face which after all the insane moving left his face rather drenched.”[color=00aeef] Ahh..refreshing and I dare say you’re looking nice and fresh again, my handsome friend.[/color]” Said to his reflection to which he gave a wink and finger gun.

At that moment a stall door opened up where an older gentleman stepped out only to stop abruptly upon seeing the cowlicked blonde talking to his reflection.

The sound had him freeze in place with just his eyes turning over to look at the person unknown to him and spoke up.”[color=00aeef] Do you mind? I am talking to my friend here![/color]” He stated so matter of factly causing the man to back away nervously then turn to leave the blonde weirdo.” [color=00aeef]Hmph…can’t get any privacy around here and the man didn’t even wash his hands…disgusting.[/color]” Crinkling his nose along with a shake of the head then turned back to the mirror where he was sporting that big grin once more.”[color=00aeef] Best to save our talk till another time. Do have a shiny day my mirror friend.[/color]” A roll of his right hand into a small bow to himself where he then spun on his heels to exit the bathroom.

Strolling out of the bathroom in an upbeat and carefree manner, whistling as he went. Still very much feeling the high and watching the colorful flame butterflies flapping about when a meek voice spoke up prompting him to shift onto his right foot to twirl around on the spot.”[color=00aeef] Of course! I’m free for a friendly chat.[/color]” His words were directed at her, but those amber brown eyes were flitting around as he saw a good number of butterflies flying around and landing on Charlotte making him hold back a giggle. 

Charlotte followed his gaze with confusion, glancing around herself and then back at him. [color=BBC7E1][i]What is he looking at?[/i][/color] She could tell he wanted to laugh and she, too, felt the urge. However, she restrained herself as she wasn’t certain of the backstory to this bizarre behavior.  After a moment she smiled and greeted him,[color=BBC7E1]”...My name’s Charlotte. It’s nice to meet you.”[/color] 

His attention, once scattered, soon became focused at hearing the woman introduce herself.” Charlotte? Hm..why does that name sound familiar?” Tilting his head in curious fashion trying to recall where he heard the name while tapping at his chin, but his hazy mind drew a blank.”[color=00aeef] Well, tis a pleasure to meet you, Lady Charlotte. The name’s Kazumin. What can I do for you?[/color]” He asked with that friendly smile all the while. 

[color=BBC7E1]”Someone told me there was a predicament of sorts between you and Lady Crystal. She’s actually a dear friend of mine so I was a little worried…Would you mind telling me what happened please?”[/color] Charlotte asked in a pleasant tone.

And just like that, the wide grin melted away as the unpleasant memory of the events of Crystal; one that he had successfully forgotten until now flashed in his mind. As if like a balloon, all the positive vibes leaked out of him until he was left feeling deflated with his head resting buried in his hands.” [color=00aeef]Wow…uh talk about a huge mood killer you hit me with here.[/color]” His words coming off a tad muffled hinted by a melancholy tone.

Taking a deep breath then exhaling slowly before dragging his hands down his face to look at her once more. Not even the butterflies could bring back his smile right now.”[color=00aeef]  But I don’t hold it against ya. Can’t blame a friend for being worried.[/color]” Exhaling through his nose while rubbing at his forehead.” [color=00aeef] Only right that I’m honest and I would like to tell you but honestly..I..don’t even know what it was I did?[/color]” A confused and quizzical expression on his face as even he was trying to figure out what he had done to give cause for the way Crystal left in such dour fashion. 

Charlotte’s smile fell once she noticed how Kazumin’s complete change in demeanor. [color=BBC7E1]”Oh.. I’m so sorry… I didn’t mean to…”[/color]She had said with sadness, clasping her hands together nervously. She hadn’t expected such a reaction nor did she know how to quite fix this. She listened as he spoke, furrowing her brows thoughtfully as she considered her next words. [color=BBC7E1]”... Lady Crystal has spent quite some time ill and this is her first time out in public in a while. You seem like you’re a nice person, but something may have come across differently than you had intended.”[/color] She set a hand on his shoulder to comfort him, [color=BBC7E1]” The last thing I want to do is kill your mood.”[/color]

He had worried that Charlotte was angry at him for hurting a good friend of hers only adding to his guilt when he saw her frowning as well. It did bring him some comfort to find this wasn’t the case though the unexpected touch of her hand on his shoulder had his body tensing up for a moment then relaxed once more afterward. And then he listened to what she said about Crystal’s current state of health and situation which got some gears rolling in his head as he recalled the way his story started. A look of realization.”[color=00aeef]  Oooooooh ....[/color]” Followed by a pained wince as he facepalmed.” [color=00aeef] ugh.. I’m such an idiot![/color]” He started slapping at his own forehead with the heel of his palm.”[color=00aeef]  Kazu you moron…you’re a storyteller…you should know your audience.[/color]” The frustrated blonde spoke in between each slap, chastising himself for being so negligent. 

 [color=BBC7E1]”It’s hard to know your audience if you’ve only just met them. Don’t be too hard on yourself-”[/color]Charlotte had begun to assure him, only to break off her own statement with an inhale as she recalled who Kazumin was. [color=BBC7E1]” Ooooh you’re the fellow who wanted to tell a story earlier.”[/color] She recalled at the time she had been irritated with him and the others who had chimed in as she had anxiously awaited the fate of her father’s life. Now that things were not so tense, Charlotte was kind of excited to talk to someone else who liked stories.  She grinned as she then told him, [color=BBC7E1]”That’s so fun! I love writing stories.”[/color]

What she said was true though he still couldn’t help but feel stupid for not noticing.”[color=00aeef] I guess but now I know what I did wrong and know how to make the proper apologies whenever I get the opportunity to so for that I thank you.[/color]”  He ran his hand through his blonde hair with a sigh, the cowlick springing up after doing so. 

“[color=00aeef]Hm? You actually noticed and remembered me? Glad to know I wasn’t completely forgotten even if I was denied my tale.[/color]” Placing his hands on his hips while sputtering his lips briefly in disappointment, but did perk up once more after learning of Charlotte’s interest in stories.”[color=00aeef]A fellow lover of stories?[/color]” Asked with a grin returning to his once deflated face.” ”[color=00aeef]Though I personally prefer telling rather than writing or reading…really adds hm..what’s the word? Right… panache! Gives a story more of an impact I’d say.[/color]” He finished with a chuckle and nod of the head.  

 [color=BBC7E1]”Of course I remember. I was out there trying to get my father’s life spared if you recall.”[/color] Charlotte replied with a giggle. She was not sure if he had initially recognized her either. Alas, she did not take offense as she wasn’t sure how memorable a person she was exactly. [color=BBC7E1]“I will hear your tale if you’d like to tell it.”[/color]Charlotte then offered.

Kazu stared at her blankly for a moment then understanding dawned on his face.”[color=00aeef] Wait! You’re that Charlotte!?[/color]” He exclaimed in shock and disbelief.

Both hands suddenly shot up, slapping at his cheeks.”[color=00aeef] Christ! Can’t believe I didn’t remember until now.”[/color] His mind was a lot more drugged up than he thought. Without warning he reached out to gently hold one of her hands in both of his, giving it a friendly shake.” ”[color=00aeef]How could I forget the woman that showed such bravery and love for her father. Such a display all but moved me to tears.[/color]” Bowing his head apologetically along with a small sniff.[color=00aeef]” I would love nothing more than to tell a story to the one who has earned all of my respect and with it an extension of friendship.[/color]” Smiling with eyes filled with excitement and hope; Charlotte had been one he wanted to meet and become friends with ever since witnessing that whole ordeal. 

Charlotte giggled once more. He sure liked to slap his face a lot for some reason. She returned the handshake though she was a little bewildered by his sudden change in energy, [color=BBC7E1]”Goodness, you’re funny!”[/color]She laughed, [color=BBC7E1]”I’m honored you feel that way about me.”[/color] She took a moment to glance around until her eyes spotted a nearby seat along the wall. [color=BBC7E1]”I accept your extension of friendship and your tale.”[/color] She sat down and neatly folded her hands on her lap, ready to listen. Charlotte had a feeling she was opening pandora’s box here.

Receiving the compliment had him beaming.”[color=00aeef] That’s the third time today someone told me I’m funny tonight, not that I’m complaining.[/color]” A glint of delight shone in his eyes at having both his offer of friendship and tale accepted.””[color=00aeef] Course, the story I was intending to tell was one meant to soothe heated tempers and my mind is a bit..boggled at the moment.[/color]” Waving the fingers of his right hand next to his head to further state his point and it was then he saw the butterflies fluttering around the place causing him to take notice of a candle halfway melted down. A snap of the fingers as an idea came to mind.”[color=00aeef] But, I think I can muster a short tale to tide you over for when the mind is better clear for a proper story, that is if it is ok with you?[/color]”

[color=BBC7E1]”Indeed, mister Kazumin.”[/color]She gestured for him to go on with a smile.

“”[color=00aeef]Excellente![/color]” He cheered with a clap of his hands then moved to lift the half melted candle from the brassiere, careful not to burn his hand nor move too fast to prevent it going out. Kazu stood before Charlotte with the candle held forward.”[color=00aeef] One day, within a room shrouded in darkness that had nary felt the warmth of light, a lone candle came to life. Its flame was a gentle spark at first but before long grew into a brilliant flame that expelled the cold and empty shadows.[/color]” Lifting his free hand up near the candle to have the lit flame rise up a bit as he spoke.” ”[color=00aeef]The candle knew not what it was, where it was or why… only that it desired to spread joy and warmth. Day after day passed and yet its flame did not go out and its desire swelled until one day a spark lifted from its fire and would watch it take form into a butterfly of a beautiful fiery blue.[/color]” He made a fluttering motion with his fingers imitating said butterfly, pausing to see what Charlotte thought so far. 

Charlotte’s eyes followed his fingers with intrigue, [color=BBC7E1]”Oooh. This is lovely so far. I love butterflies.”[/color] She gave a brief applause and then eagerly awaited what happened next. The tale was nicer than she had expected and she was very entertained.

Pleased to see she was enjoying the story so far and would give a playful wink before carrying on.

“ ”[color=00aeef]Such a wondrous sight to behold for the candle who has only seen darkness in its short life. The candle giggled in delight as it watched the fiery butterfly flap around though feared the poor thing might be lonely. And so, with effort and determination the candle made another then another until the room was lit like a rainbow from all the plentiful colorful flame butterflies.[/color]” 

He held the candle up and gently waved it about in his right, the left hand fluttering some more.” ”[color=00aeef]Before long these butterflies found their way free of the dark room where they would find humans and animals alike, but strangely whatever they touched did not burn.[/color]” Shaking his head as he placed his left index finger against his nose to show one landing on it.” ”[color=00aeef]Instead, it filled those feeling lonely or sad with joy and uplifted their spirits with its warming glow.[/color]” He hummed and let out a few low mock giggles and happy hums as examples of those who were met by such butterflies. 

[color=BBC7E1]”Aw. That’s so sweet. I feel as if the butterflies are uplifting me.”[/color]Charlotte commented with a smile. [color=BBC7E1]”This could make for such a darling children’s book. When I was a little girl, I used to dress up as a butterfly for costume day. If this were a tale available, I think I would have read it a hundred times.”[/color]

Kazu chuckled with a wide grin.” ”[color=00aeef]I’m not surprised as you have plenty of them fluttering around you right now. Think they really like you.[/color]” He said while rubbing at the back of his head, his cheeks flushing with a tinge of red at having his tale complimented so. Charlotte had found herself mildly confused by his statement, but she figured perhaps he was trying to further immerse her in the story. 

A clearing cough of the throat to indicate he was ready to continue.”[color=00aeef]Ever since, the candle continued to produce butterflies who wanted nothing more than to spread joy and laughter.[/color]” At this moment the happy expression on Kazu’s face turned into a sad smile.” ”[color=00aeef]Sadly, by doing so it had unknowingly shortened its already short life for no matter how strong and brilliant a flame is… eventually it would go out.[/color]” His tone, once vibrant and happy, softened to match his sad expression as his left hand was lowering near the flame to have it slowly shrink.”[color=00aeef]The candle could feel its flame dwindling and were it to cease expanding energy it could extend its life, but still the candle continued for it only desired to share its gift and wanted to give its love to as many as it could.[/color]”

Kazu had his attention on the candle, its flame small enough now where the gentlest breeze could put it out. He turned his gaze to Charlotte to see how she felt about this depressing turn. 

Charlotte put a hand over her mouth in surprise. [color=BBC7E1]”Oh dear.”[/color] She could not help but see her parents faces flash in her mind. It was painful even now to see them. She wanted to reach out toward them and ask them to stay with all her heart. Even after so long, they were both still etched into her brain. [color=BBC7E1]”Everything has its end.”[/color]She said after a long and thoughtful pause, her hand falling to reveal a sad smile. [color=BBC7E1]”But it’s that what makes a lifetime so precious and beautiful… What you said about the candle wanting to continue despite nearing its end is wonderfully heartbreaking.“[/color]


He saw the sadness and a hint of pain in Charlotte’s eyes and for a moment worried he messed up again. But thankfully she seemed to be fine and understood that even a magical candle could not last forever.” ”[color=00aeef]Yes, it is heartbreaking though it is not quite the ending of this tale.[[/color]” He nodded with a comforting smile.

“[color=00aeef] For even as its life was drawing near its end, the candle continued producing butterflies even when they were small and fragile. Yet, the candle was not sad for it could sense all the happiness it had given to others and did not regret its action for even a moment. And the butterflies who could feel their life giver end approaching refused to let its effort be naught. They set forth, seeking out candles and with their colorful flames sparked candles the world over to life. A flood of warmth and joy filled the dying candle and it knew its love and happiness would be carried on for as long as there is a lonely or sad person in need….[/color]” Trailing off as he gazed forlornly at the candle held in his hand, its fire but a tiny spark now.

With a soft and gentle blow from his lips went the fire and so too the life of the candle. No more words were needed and so Kazu remained silent, his eyes closed relishing in the bittersweet moment. 

Charlotte gave a standing ovation as she rose and clapped, not bothered by the eyes pulled their way.  [color=BBC7E1]”Bravo! That was marvelous!”[/color] She found herself genuinely moved by the story and its bittersweet resolve. [color=BBC7E1]”That made my night!”[/color]

Kazu opened his eyes to the sight of applause bringing a smile back to his lips as he bowed his head. Even shifting the candle as if it was bowing as well.”[color=00aeef] Thank you. I’m glad you enjoyed the tale of the Jolly Candle.[/color]” He stood back up with a bit of an embarrassed blush.[color=00aeef] ”And uh Sorry for the..depressing turn at the end there…. Though I think it felt fitting and highlights the gift being one that can be passed on..or something like that.[/color]” Scratching at his cheek nervously as he explained his reasoning for the bittersweet path the story went.

[color=BBC7E1]”No, no don’t be. I love a good tragedy.  I felt it in my heart and I think that’s often the best kind of story. “[/color]Charlotte responded warmly. [color=BBC7E1]” You’re quite the talent. Did you come up with that on the spot? I feel I should perhaps pay you for that performance.”[/color]

“ ”[color=00aeef]Yes, exactly! Any story can have a happy ending, but one that makes the reader have conflicted feelings makes for a great story.[/color]” It was nice to meet someone that didn’t just want happy endings like most of the people he told stories to.” ”[color=00aeef]And you got a good eye too as I did indeed think it up on the spot. A good way for one to show creativity but can be a double edge sword so got to be careful.[/color]” Poking the side of his nose twice with a wink after saying such. 


He gave a dismissive wave of the hand at the suggestion of payment.” ”[color=00aeef]Don’t be silly. The tales of Kazu are given freely for all to enjoy.[/color]” Stepping closer to extend and offer the small remains of the candle.”[color=00aeef]Instead, I’d like to give this to you as a keepsake for being such a lovely audience.[/color]” The blonde chuckled before leaning in to whisper.[color=00aeef]”You don’t really have to keep it though.”[/color]It was after all, just a candle melted mostly through. 

Charlotte had nodded in agreement.[color=BBC7E1]”I agree. I much prefer a story that makes you feel the emotion in your soul… Life unfortunately never really plays out like it does in fairytales.”[/color]Her voice drew off thoughtfully. She then took the remains of the candle into her hand and looked down at it as he spoke. Charlotte looked up at him and said in a intense tone, [color=BBC7E1]”I shall keep it with me until my dying day.”[/color] Her manner of speech was humorous and she smiled after a dramatic pause.

He could already tell that Charlotte and he would get along quite well and become very good friends.” ”[color=00aeef]Definitely, not that happy endings are bad or anything.[/color]” He said simply to clarify. To his surprise she took the candle; treating it like it was a cherished gift.” ”[color=00aeef]Looks like Jolly is in good hands indeed.[/color]” Joining in with her playful act with a serious expression of his own but it was betrayed by snickering he tried and failed to hold back.”[color=00aeef]” I hope this story of mine has helped lessen the burden of what you and your father had to go through earlier. By the way, how is he? I hope he is holding up well.[/color]” The image of Lorenzo on all four crying popped into his head and he remembered how rough it was witnessing it just as a bystander. 

[color=BBC7E1]”It certainly has… To be honest I am not certain right now.”[/color]Her expression saddened as the worry she had felt earlier returned. [color=BBC7E1]”I saw him dancing with one of the Sultan’s daughters, who had threatened to essentially feed me to her snake earlier….So least to say I am concerned… I was actually looking for him before I spoke with you.”[/color] 

He saw the worried expression and the reason for it was understandable as he recalled the woman that was hugging her at the time. She gave off nothing but dangerous vibes and to hear that she had danced with her father certainly was concerning.”[color=00aeef] Ouch..and I have a feeling she wasn’t the dance partner he was expecting. I’ve kept you long enough but I wholly enjoyed every moment of our meeting.[/color]” Extending his hand out offering a proper handshake.”[color=00aeef] I do hope the next we meet will be a more pleasant start and I shall think up a more proper story as well.[/color]”

 If she took hold of his hand he would shake with a gentle yet firm grip.’”[color=00aeef] And do give your father my best. I greatly look forward to meeting him as well.[/color]” Giving that wide friendly smile of his; every word spoken genuine as he wanted to meet the man that unintentionally gave one of the best laughs of his life and an apology for the bit of disrespect he nearly gave back in return.
[color=BBC7E1]”I enjoyed it as well, Kazumin! I will be here all summer so I hope  to see you soon.”[/color]Charlotte responded as she shook his hand. On the topic of fathers, she figured it was also best to warn him about Count Calbert. She added, [color=BBC7E1]”Oh uh, and be cautious of Lady Crystal’s father. Long black hair, facial hair, blue eyes… He may seem charming but he is protective of his daughters.”[/color]

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