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This ball has proven to be one of the more interesting nights and what a roller coaster it has been. And the night was far from over. Seeing as there was still the afterparty to look forward to.
Having just said his farewells to Charlotte, Kazu was working to figure out what to do to pass the time as he waited for a sign telling him to head out to the location for the afterparty. He was still enjoying the fact he got to tell a nice little story and make a new friend on top of it after just having a most intense dance session with his best friend. The warning Charlotte left him lingered on his mind; a description of Crystal's father, a person he needed to be careful of which he felt he saw such a person already but his hazy mind made connecting things difficult.
And thinking on this led him to remember something that he said he wished to do and was trying to recall what that was.”
Let’s see….what was it again? I know it was something I decided earlier.” Standing in a thinking pose poking at his forehead trying to jostle his memories.
Letting his eyes roam over the ballroom until he took notice of Princess Mayet sitting at a table. Then he saw the tiger; a truly rare and exotic creature causing his eyes to widen with a lit candle popping up over his head.”
Oh yeah! Now I remember! And she looks free so best take hold of this opportunity while I can.” With an almost excited hop to his steps, Kazu strolled his way over.
While the dances had been undeniably interesting and entertaining for Mayet, with both of them over, she found herself bored once again. With no desire to mingle with most of the other nobles, who were too busy gossiping about one another, trying to undermine each other's image or trying to curry favor by licking the boots of those in higher positions, Mayet found amusement instead in simply sitting down and watching the antics of some of the few nobles who didn't seem to care about their own image and were doing whatever they wanted, mostly simply making a fool of themselves. Compared to the other, more 'well behaved' nobles, those were infinitely more interesting to watch.
Interestingly enough, one of those very nobles was currently making his way over to her, with energetic and undeniably excited steps. The fact that his interest seemed to be focused more on Nala made Mayet even more curious about him. Silently watching him approaching, Mayet waited until he was in front of her to finally greet him.
"I believe we haven't been introduced yet, have we?" Mayet asked, standing up to greet the curious figure as he stopped in front of her and Nala.
He made his way over to where Mayet was resting though along the way could not help but notice that this woman wasn’t like any of the previous ladies he met. No, this one gave off an air of danger; certainly more so than that tiger of hers even.
While not exactly intimidated, mostly due to the high giving him courage even when its effect has lessened. Yet, Kazu could sense a warning in his mind advising against being his usual casual and goofy self around this one.
Best to don the more noble persona that miss Agatha has spent the past three months tirelessly beating into him. An unpleasant act for him, but a better alternative compared to whatever unsavory punishment he might cause Mayet to unleash onto him were he to anger her.
“
I can’t say that we have. An issue I most assuredly tend to correct.” He shifted to initiate the appropriate bow only…*
Shit! How did it go again?!* He panicked internally; too late as he was already in motion and so might as well finish as he attempted the traditional Alidasht bow which he screwed up the hand position slightly.
“
The name is Kazumin Nagasa, your royal radiance. If I have interrupted you then do forgive my untimely appearance.” Holding his breath and head down; nervous from the fact he more than likely messed up.
Having noticed how differently he acted around the nobles he knew, Mayet couldn't help but be surprised when he introduced himself in a much more formal and respectful manner. Despite that, Mayet could still see that he wasn't exactly accustomed with neither the Alidasht customs nor... well... acting like a 'noble' at all, judging how nervous he seemed to be.
"No need to be so nervous. I find it hard that anyone could screw up as much as a few nobles already had on this ball. If blood wasn't spilled then, it certainly won't be spilled now." Mayet said, laughing as she looked to the nervous Kasumin with an amused expression.
"Besides... Unlike other nobles, I prefer honesty to false flattery." Mayet said with a mischievous smirk, indicating that she did notice that he normally acted in a completely different manner.
"Neither of us will bite unless threatened or provoked. So as long as you mind your manners, you will be safe." Mayet said with a chuckle, teasing the already nervous Kazumin a bit more.
Her response was an unexpected but pleasant one. Relief evident on his face as he let himself relax, albeit not completely as it was best not to be too comfortable around a woman who has a tiger as a protector.
“
I’m thankful to hear you say so and will be sure to remain respectful, your highness.” Speaking while remaining bowed before moving to stand upright once more.”
And I agree, honesty over false pretense.” He let out a small nervous chuckle while rubbing the back of his head.
Taking this chance to take a proper look at the Alidasht princess. Intrigued at the golden tanned skin obtained from living a life in the desert.”
I suppose it would be proper to start by asking how your evening has been so far and were your dances enjoyable?” Kazu asked while a smile returned to his lips.
Mayet let out a satisfied smile as she heard Kazumin's words and saw him visibly relaxing. That said, he still was almost a different person than what he appeared to be from a distance, something that definitely made Mayet curious.
"I wonder which one of you is the real you..." Mayet said with curious expression as she looked at Kazumin.
“
Hm, the real me?” He asked while poking at his cheek to see if it was skin and not a mask..” Seems like I’m me though it may be possible an imposter replaced me without my noticing.” His tone was playful as he rubbed at his chin in a pondering manner.
"No matter. This one is fine as well." she said with a chuckle as she sat down again, nodding with her head to the chair on the other side of the table, silently signaling for Kazumin to sit down as well.
Done with his teasing play, he noticed how she motioned for him to join her at table and with a nod moved to slide onto the chair making himself comfortable.
"Caesonian balls are... different from how most celebrations are in Alidasht."Mayet said, replying to Kazumin's question of how her evening has been in a way that he couldn't be sure if she meant that in a good or a bad manner.
"Regardless of that, other than some... unpleasant situations, my evening has been quite eventful. The dances were particularly interesting." Mayet said, clearly implying that what did interest her wasn't the dance itself, but the people she had danced with.
"I believe yours has been quite... eventful as well, wasn't it?" Mayet asked, with a mischievous smirk as she looked at him.
He remained quiet with his hands folded on the table while he listened to Mayet speak her thoughts on the ball.”
Oh? I’m curious to hear what events and celebrations are like in Alidasht in comparison to Caesonia. Course..this is the first ball I’ve been to so can’t exactly say I would notice the differences all that well..” He finished his comment with a lighthearted chuckle.
"Hm... If one had to describe it in few words it would be that celebrations in Alidasht are more... 'intense'. For example, unlike the Caesonian Waltz, which is slow and precise, our dances make use of our entire bodies, requiring quite a bit of flexibility and stamina. It is known to be a physically taxing dance. Some of our traditional dances even use real swords on their choreography." Mayet replied with a chuckle as Kazumin asked how would she compare the celebrations from Alidasht and Caesonia.
“
And I’m glad to hear that you’ve been able to enjoy yourself after that whole..unpleasant ordeal which occurred only a few minutes prior.” Tilting his head as he remembered the way Mayet made her displeasure known with that outcry and display of her weapon at the time.
A memory that lends credence to why he had been tense and uncertain around the woman’s imposing presence.”
I take it then you saw witness to my most recent dance then? All three certainly have been fun, a bit unfortunate that the first one had an abruptly poor ending, but I don’t want to bore you with the troubles of some socially inept stranger.” Giving a small dismissive wave of the hand; not wanting to dredge up that unpleasantness again.”
I’d much rather hear about the lucky individuals that got to enjoy dancing with you.” Nodding his head before leaning forward resting his chin against his palms propped up by the elbow finding himself gradually returning to his usual relaxed and chill demeanor.
"Socially inept or not, it is a fact that they were far from boring. Actually, itt was quite entertaining to watch them." Mayet said, laughing as Kazumin asked her if she did watch his dances.
"You have the talent to attract only the most 'unique' and interesting people, don't you?" Mayet said with a curious expression.
"Whether this is a curse or a blessing is unknown to me, but I bet things are never boring around you." she finished with a chuckle.
"Regarding my dances, they were definitely quite interesting. Especially since they have earned me two sparring partners, a hunting trip and a skilled blacksmith to order both weapons and jewelry." Mayet said, noticing how Kazumin seemed to be gradually dropping his 'noble' persona and getting more comfortable.
His grin widened after receiving the compliment.”
Well thank you though it was my dance partners who deserve the compliments more. I simply followed their example while putting my all into having fun.” Shrugging his shoulders as he said this.
What she said next about attracting people had him curiously arching a brow.”
Do I? I haven’t noticed though apparently I’m quite good at making people laugh.” This thought brought a pleased grin to his face.
"Rumors are that you are quite good at telling stories as well... After all, even the Sultan himself was interested." Mayet replied with a chuckle, teasing Kazumin once more.
He kept his attention on Mayet to show he was listening, his eyes expressing how impressed he was.”
Sounds like your dances have proved rather fruitful too.” Letting his gaze roam over her body briefly; noting that while she was definitely beautiful, this princess also had the well-trained body of a warrior.”
I can tell by a glance that you will probably give them a good run for their money. Best they don’t underestimate you. And I've been known to dabble in storytelling though have yet been given the opportunity to tell one to a royal audience, something I hope to change soon.” Shaking his head with a chuckle.”
You also said something about a blacksmith? Consider me interested in hearing about this person, but..” Trailing off to peer over at the tiger briefly then turned back to Mayet.”
Before we get absorbed into this conversation any further. I must bring up that I couldn’t help but admire that lovely companion of yours.” Motioning towards Nala with his head.
Having noticed Kazumin observing her, Mayet raised an eyebrow with an amused expression, especially after his comment about the Alidasht dances, her physique and how she would 'give them a good run for their money', referring to the sparring with both Roman and Wulfric.
"Even though the dances are quite fun, they weren't the ones responsible for what you see..." Mayet said, looking to Kazumin with an amused expression as she watched his reaction.
"My favorite dances were always the ones that used real weapons, after all..." Mayet said with a chuckle, clearly implying that she wasn't bluffing at all back then when she pointed her weapon at Duke Vikena, another clear signal of how close the situation didn't end with bloodshed.
Not surprised to hear that Mayet preferred the dance of combat after witnessing her earlier display.”
I can only imagine the terror you must instill into your opponents after foolishly underestimating you.” Picturing himself standing before her with sword in hand looking like a trembling twig standing before a mighty and immovable tree.”
I’m not much of a fighter myself, only having recently taken on learning swordsmanship.” And only because Asteroth made it a requirement for him to learn.
“
Try to put a sword in my hand and I’m more liable to accidentally stab myself than anything. Though give me a garden hoe and I can slice a grape clean in half with precision rivaling master swordsman.” He boasted this as if it was something to be proud for when it came to Kazu it was one of his very few achievements.
>>>>>>>"Be it a sword, a blacksmith hammer or a garden hoe, I can respect those who work for what they want by using their own strength, technique and effort. Unlike those nobles, who probably never lifted a finger their entire lives." Mayet said, nodding her head towards Kazumin with a chuckle before she pointed towards a few of the nobles around that were too busy eating like pigs and bragging about their own possessions.“You said you just started to learn swordsmanship, didn’t you?” Mayet asked, after thinking for a little bit.
>>>>>>“You might want to try wielding a halberd. I’m certain you will feel more comfortable wielding one than a sword… Call it an expert’s intuition.” Mayet said with a chuckle, after considering what he said about being skilled with a garden hoe and a quick glance at his physique.Being suggested to try a halberd had him arching a brow."
Hm, I might try one out next time. I'll be sure to mention it to my teacher before my next lesson." Nodding his head, grateful for the advice from one far more knowledgeable on weapons than he.
When Kazumin mentioned Nala, Mayet couldn't help but to chuckle as she looked at Nala, whom was laying down just besides her chair, silently teasing the tigress about her having another 'admirer'.
"Nala has been with me since I was 12 years old." she said with a smile as she glanced to Nala, before looking to Kazumin again.
"The reason why we get along and understand each other so well is because I treat her not as a pet, but as a companion. I trust her and she trusts me." she continued.
"Which means that if someone poses a threat to me, she will not hesitate in ripping them to shreds and if someone poses a threat to her, I won't hesitate in doing the same." she said with a chuckle, a clear reminder that Nala was not, by any means, a 'tamed' pet.
As much fun as it was to talk about combat, the topic on Nala and the immeasurably close bond Mayet had with the animal was more intriguing.”
Dang..you two really got history then.”
Shaking his head with a look of delighted disbelief.”
And it surely shows, seeing as how Nala is allowed to roam freely without leash or collar. Makes me pity any that dares to try and tame her and could say it applies to you as well, your highness. A fool’s errand indeed.” Expressing an amused grin of his own at the thought of any even daring to tame a fierce woman like Mayet.
>>>>>Mayet couldn't help but let out an intrigued but satisfied expression as she heard Kazumin's words as he talked about how it would be a fool's errand to try to tame either her or Mayet. "This one is quite good at talking, isn't he?" Mayet thought to herself with an amused expression. It had been only a few minutes that they had met, yet he knew exactly how to compliment her.
"I wouldn't do something as to put on a leash on my companion. She is as free as I am. Besides, the only thing that goes around her neck is jewelry." Mayet said, laughing.
“
And while we’re on the topic of Nala. A wondrous and exotic creature I’ve only seen in books made all the more rare and extraordinary with her black fur. While simply admiring the beauty of your companion may prove enough for any others..” Trailing off as he studied each of them in turn; unsure if making such a request would be wise, but he already came this far..”
But I’m the kind of person that enjoys taking risks worth taking especially when animals are concerned. So I have an..unexpected request that most would find foolish, even teetering on insanity.” Sitting up in order to cough into his fist clearing his throat.
“
I was wondering if at all possible that I could..pet Nala? I won’t complain if you refuse as it is a very unorthodox request.” He found himself shifting a bit awkwardly on the chair with no way to know if he would regret asking for such a thing or not.
As Mayet heard Kazumin's proposal, saying that he wanted to try petting Nala, she let out an amused smile as she looked at Kazumin and then a teasing grin as she looked at Nala. First it was the other noble who not only was interested in Nala, but had the courage to try to feed her, which surprisingly enough, Nala accepted, and now it was Kazumin, who seemed to be completely entranced by her.
"Aren't you quite popular today? I bet not even you thought you would be getting such attention, did you?” Mayet asked with a laugh as she looked towards Nala, whom made a low growl of protest before looking at Kazumin, almost as if she was evaluating him.
"I'm not the one you should ask this though, Kazumin. Although, I don't think there's a better moment for this as Nala has been surprisingly kind towards strangers today." Mayet said as she looked to Nala, who was still laying down and looking at Kazumin with a piercing stare.
Mayet’s words were a good sign.”
Seems lady luck has been both kind and unkind to me tonight. Something that can easily change as the evening is far from over.”
Nala kept staring at Kazumin for a few moments, her eyes fixed on his, almost as if she was looking at a prey, gauging his reaction as she did so. After a few moments, Nala simply uncrossed her front paws, extended one of them forward and laid it down on the ground in front of her, almost as if she was a noble extending her hand for a commoner to kiss.
"Aren't you the lucky one. It seems you have her permission." Mayet said, laughing. It was clear to Kazumin that she was enjoying herself quite a bit by watching what was happening.
Kazu sat there waiting anxiously as he felt Nala staring at him. As expected of a tiger, an intense and dangerous gaze emanated from those golden orbs whereas Kazu’s eyes held no sign of deceit or danger, mostly just excitement and a bit of anxiety. Yet, he felt no sense of actual danger unlike the chilling gaze he received earlier from a certain prince. The mere thought of the man sent a shiver down his spine.
Then he saw the way Nala extended her paw followed by what Mayet said which had the anxious blonde nearly bouncing giddily in his seat. The mere reminder of who he was sitting with kept him from losing himself in such a childish and embarrassing manner.
Choosing instead to inhale deeply then exhaling slowly from his nose while straining not to smile too much.”
A once in a lifetime opportunity I would be foolish to refuse then.” He stood up and stepped closer to the lounging tigress though made to remain at arm length, at least for the time being as he knew not to get too much into the animal’s personal space. Next, he would quietly crouch down until he was standing on one knee; this time it was him staring back at Nala’s eyes while sporting a soft smile.
It was easy to discern that Nala was a very proud animal and so Kazu bowed his head to offer the noble tigress the proper respect.”
I am greatly honored to have been graced with your kind offer, Nala.” Bowing his head once more; uncertain if he was actually supposed to kiss the feline’s paw and opted to show his hands to reveal he held nothing in them first before slowly reaching a hand out to gently pet the offered paw.
Mayet was genuinely amused by the way Kazumin approached Nala. Not only he did so carefully and respectfully, due to the fact that she was a dangerous animal, but he also offered her the respect she deserved for being Mayet's companion, something that was a first since she had arrived on Caesonia.
While Nala had indeed allowed him to approach her, she still kept a piercing gaze on him at all times as he did so, watching his every movement as he crouched down and raised his hands with slow and careful movements before finally reaching out to touch Nala's paw, wich was easily almost three times larger than his own hand.
Kazu’s slow and steady approach was thanks to years of handling farm animals. Although with Nala he knew he needed to be even more cautious and careful as cows, horses or even bulls were nothing compared to the deadly presence of a tiger. And a tiger who was practically treated like royalty which added more of a sense of superiority onto this already prideful feline.
And yet, the cowlicked blonde wasn’t afraid or nervous. No, Kazu was in a state of excitement and elated disbelief as he gently brushed his calloused fingers against a massive furry paw that could kill him in a single swipe.
It took considerable effort just to keep from gushing.*
The fellas back home are never gonna believe this?! If only Percy was here to be here as witness..damn it!* His mind was buzzing with such enthusiastic thoughts as he edged an inch closer to better rub his fingers over her paw, amazed at how silky soft the fur was.”
Truly a breathtaking creature…” He whispered in awe, his eyes peering over the majestic tigress with an admiring gaze.
Nala kept watching Kazumin with a stern gaze as he touched her paws, both her attitude and her posture sent a clear message that she was the one who was giving him the
privilege of touching her. This continued for a few moments, until Nala felt that it was enough and gently pulled back her paw, crossing it in front of her once again.
He had hoped to be able to pet Nala some more, but as expected, this privilege offered by a tigress who was likely as prideful as Mayet would be brief for a stranger. Brief as it was though, Kazu enjoyed every moment of it.
"So, Kazumin... Has your curiosity been sated?" Mayet asked, looking at Kasumin with a curious expression.
"Few are the ones who can say they had been granted this privilege. Most of the time, Nala doesn't really take kindly to strangers approaching her too much." Mayet said with an amused expression and a chuckle as she looked at Nala and then at Kazumin once again.
“
It is. Nala is definitely no pet nor one to tolerate fools.” He said with a chuckle; so much he had gleaned from the small contact and sharp gaze. Enough to know that both of them were equally dangerous just in different ways.
Pushing on his knees to stand back up only to shift into another bow to both of them.”
I give my thanks for allowing me a privilege so very few are graced with and from the most beautiful pair in this hall at that.” Keeping his tone casual but respectful.
"You are a curious person, Kazumin. Maybe, if we meet again, you could tell me one of the 'stories' you offered the Sultan..." Mayet said, letting out a satisfied smile as she heard Kazumin's words.
This meeting with Mayet had proven to be a most unexpected yet intriguing one. As he approached expecting the Alidasht princess to be a typical spoiled or unpleasantly stuck up person. In fact, none of the people he had met tonight had so far not been like this save for a certain prince.”
I’m certain that we will meet again as your summer stay offers plenty of opportunities. Meetings where I hope to tell you some of my stories along with the chance to learn and see more of Alidasht’s customs and exotic animals. Any chance to spend time with a strong and gorgeous princess and her powerful companion would be a delight.”
Bowing once more, turning his head without standing up quite yet.”
I also wouldn’t mind witnessing your highness sparring sometimes.”
"You are welcome to watch my sparring with Lord Roman and Prince Wulfric. I am certain it will be quite entertaining." Mayet said with a chuckle as she heard Kazumin's words.
"Neither Roman nor Wulfric know you will come... But I am certain that things might get even more interesting~" Mayet said with a chuckle.
With that, Kazu departed as he didn’t want to overstay his welcome. The mention of Wulfric left him uncertain if going to this sparring to be a good idea, but he couldn’t pass up such a chance to see nobles sparring and looked forward to the event.
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