[h2]Zoe[/h2]

[quote=@Terrans]
Private Aden Robertson
...
Aden could admit he had been thrown for a loop. The first reasoning was that Zoe had accepted his offer. The second was that she had been waiting for his askance. 

Then he was out on the “dance floor”; fumbling into his position with distant muscle memory. Hands settling in her grip and side respectively. He felt off; the emotional torrent still bubbled under the surface, the song in the background was off-tempo for a waltz and Zoe moved easier and surer in her steps. Aden stumbling slightly as he almost stepped in her left foot. 

“Sorry.” He met her gaze. Flashing a grin that was part nervous and part anticipatory. He ignored the slight ache of the stitches and moved for the next set. 

He wasn’t sure when he noticed but his attention eventually found Mitunbaal’s. She was watching from the corner. Eyes locked on Aden and Zoe’s movement; but he got the impression Zoe wasn’t cause for her attention. 

Aden might have said something; or perhaps returned the gaze of Zoe hadn’t returned from the latest step of the waltz and nearly off balanced him. 

[/quote]

"Why you've made quite the impressive recovery Mister Robertson," Zoe remarked as she fell back in step with Aden.  She was a graceful dancer, apparently practiced at this, if little of any practical value.  Not surprising for a daughter on Inburian aristocracy.  She still had that slight smile on her face as if amused by her own private joke, "So," she asked, eyes sparkling as she looked up at her dance partner, "What do you suppose our gallant Captain intends to do once we get to the Mitteland?  Will he honour my promises of pay for those who were reluctant to retrieve the gold, or do you think he'll keep it all for the greater good on Inbur?"

She cocked her head to one side slightly as they turned in time to the music, "What is an honourable Captain to do in times such as these -  when honour pulls in different directions?  And what do you imagine our Mister Carter will do?"

[hr]

[h2]Arkadios[/h2]

[quote=@Bingelly]
...

Volodar's focus remained on the Captain over the rapidly assembling group on the dance floor. The frivolity of the civilians and the young soldier was to be expected. "I have some experience flying these crafts, Captain," Volodar nodded in reply. "Though I must warn you, it was a far smaller craft as it had been personally constructed. I do have faith I can see us delivered to safety should the need arise."
[/quote]

Arkadios motioned for Volodar to lead the way if he so pleased, before setting off in the direction of the bridge.  It never hurt to be careful, even if they weren't lurching out of control yet, "That is useful to know.  I appreciate, Sir that you may have been reluctant to step forward to do any flying at this point.  However, if tensions boil over, which I hope they will not after this little matinée, it is good to know we have someone else capable of piloting us to safety."

As they approached the bridge, Itzi's back was visible at the controls, "Well that puts my mind at rest," Arkadios commented mildly, "Shall we return to the party?" he suggested.