Spirits of the Earth

OOC: This Thread has come from: The Dessert Table (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15587.msg156761#msg156761). See Rules of the Table before joining! Thanks!

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Illi entered the study and felt as if she must have died and gone to heaven. There was no way a place could be so perfect. No way.

Books were lined all of the walls in both the first and the second—yes, the second—floor, with the exception of where there were bookcase gaps to display oil paintings. A balcony railing spun around the second floor and the exquisite staircase that ran up to it also, as fate had it, doubled as a bookshelf. The seating arrangement in the middle of the room looked as if they would be as comfortable as clouds, and Illi was definitely planning on seeing if that theory was try. Looking straight up (which strained her neck it was so high), she saw a fragile chandelier on top of it all, as if it was the icing on top of the cake.

In fact, the sight of it was so overwhelming that Illi actually forgot her initial purpose for coming. But after a few deep breaths to calm herself down, she quickly went to work. Any other person probably would have needed a full time librarian to find specific books. But Illi was no ordinary person when it came to libraries. She quickly figured out how the books were organized and went about searching for a few very specific books. Those books were non-fiction books that would make a person feel inspiration like none other. Books that changed one's view on life simply by reading them.

Luckily for her, it seemed like she was the only person in the library. So she quietly hummed as she zipped around looking for books and creating two stacks: one for the books she was actually looking for, and one for the books that looked intriguing and she'd have to read some other time.

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Illi has also come from: A Slice of Lemon Pie (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15589.0)

Davishire thought he'd be safe in the study. Only a few couples had dare gone in there for a private rendez-vous, and upon hearing them, Lord Davishire sneered and made his way towards one of the back shook shelves in the room. He wasn't looking for anything in particular, but a place to fall asleep in quiet...
and as luck would have it, the place was big enough he found a shadowy corner there in a leather  arm chair and soon, was dozing away, his big form appearing still in the dark shadows.... like a hibernating wolf.

Avery Carwick had not been particularly looking forward to this occasion. It wasn't that he didn't enjoy social engagements in general, but this one was proving particularly bothersome. First of all, he hadn't wanted to leave his military company for a fancy soiree. It was bad for morale. But the Duke and Duchess of Wulfbauer had made it very clear that they expected him to come, especially since they were not. He didn't entirely blame them. Both of them, but particularly Caroline, had avoided social occasions since Constance had been taken to the mage camps. That was years ago, and the strain of not hearing from her only daughter hadn't treated the duchess well. So making an appearance in their stead was, Avery supposed, the least he could do. But now with all the rumors of uprisings in the camps, mages breaking out and forming guerilla bands...

Second of all, both the duke and the duchess were making it increasingly clear that Avery needed to find himself a wife. And there were few places more terrifying to be a bachelor than at a large ball full of match-makers. At least he'd been able to bring Bryony, who was quite excited about the evening. She'd been swept away shortly after they arrived, though. Avery, meanwhile, had been put through the ringer: first by middle aged women suggesting one girl after the other that he just had to meet. And was already spending far more of his time than he'd like trying to separate Constance's name from the mage camp rumors. Turns out everyone was interested in that subject. (He was glad, though, that Caroline hadn't come.)

When a break in the conversation finally opened, Avery took the opportunity to slip away. He needed a break. At least for a little while! So he poured himself a double whiskey and headed for somewhere devoid of people to catch his breath. That's what lead him to the study. When he entered, however, he found it not empty. He didn't see the sleeping form of Davenshire, but he immediately caught sight of the young woman methodically organizing books.

"Sorry, am I interrupting? Is this respite zone already spoken for?"

((P.S. I couldn't figure out how to work it into the post, but he's dressed as an oak man. Think leafy mask and smart brown and green clothes and such. In my defense, it's after my bedtime!))

Caught up in her own work, Illi did not hear a word Avery said, much less even know he was there. She did, however, notice how high her piles of books were starting to stack up (mostly the pile of books she wanted to read). So she picked about ten of the books up and turned around. While she was no longer able to see due to the height of the book tower, Illi remembered how to get to the middle of the room where she planned on stashing the books.

However, she hadn't been planning on a person being behind her.

So after just a few tentative steps in her heels, Illi ran straight into Avery and fell backwards onto her back. The books somehow managed to mostly land on her, causing a great deal of pain to her stomach. Oddly enough, this wasn't the first time she had this problem.

Illi gently pushed the books off of her and onto the ground before sitting up. Then she nodded her head down in replacement of a bow and apologized, "Sorry about that... tree man?" What a strange costume he had on.

The tumbling of books was enough to rouse the sleeping wolf as he growled back into the world of the wake  And he slowly opened one eye and peered out into the darkness. Straining his ears, and tried to listen to see- was someone in trouble? Or was it just that couple from earlier fooling around?

Avery waited politely a moment for the young woman's response. When it seemed clear that she hadn't heard him, he opened his mouth to speak again but just then Jillian stepped backwards and tumbled into him before he had any time to react. All Avery could do was act as a cushion for her fall, for she landed directly on top of him. The combined weight of the girl and the books was enough to make him issue a small, "oof."

The only other sound was the short, heavy tumbler glass rolling across the floor. Avery had it in hand when he entered and it had been holding a tall whiskey. Whiskey which was now on the front of Avery's shirt.

Once Jillian had picked herself up into a sitting position, Avery followed suit, leaving them arrayed awfully close to each other on the floor for strangers! He carefully removed  and stacked the odd couple of books that had landed on him, or that had been pushed onto him when Jillian got up. Avery gave a little laugh and a small, lopsided smile at her question. Realizing quite how close they were, he leaned back, propped up by his arms to put a slightly more respectable amount of space between them. But he didn't get up quite yet. Actually, he wasn't sure he could get up just yet with Jillian still pining down one of his legs!

"'Tree man?'" he echoed. "That's a bit rich coming from the High Queen Librarian here. This is some impressive bit of rearranging you've done here," he looked appreciatively around at the piles of books now on the floor. "Cataloguing?" He gave her another grin, adding in reference to his whiskey-soaked shirt, "I'm going to smell like an awful lush now, you know."

Illi blushed in response to his laugh... tree man?! Why would she guess tree man?! Obviously he thought she was ridiculous. And now that she got a better view, he was kind of cute... whatever he was. But when he moved backwards, her eyes dropped the the whiskey stain now on his shirt.

With one hand over her mouth and the other weakly pointing at the stain, Illi inwardly went frantic. She didn't even notice what he was saying or the fact that she was sitting on his leg. Instead she noticed how the stain was spreading and spreading and spreading...

"Oh my gosh I am so sorry I don't know what I was thinking I should have been paying more attention," she finally blurted, speaking faster than she ever knew was possible. "Oh goodness gracious we should get you a new shirt... my god that is the second time this has happened..." She moved both her hands to cover her face and shook her head, as if it would make the problem disappear. It didn't. "You know what... maybe I can get you a new shirt. I have a slew of brothers here today that might have something extra. Since all the costumes seem to be five layers, anyway." She paused to take a breath. "Or one of my sisters might be able to get that stain out, actually. Do you want me to take your shirt?"

Illi gave no thought as to what it would look like if he was shirtless and they were sitting on the ground as close as they were.

It didn't take a genius to figure out that Jillian Treyburn, the 'Queen' he met from earlier, was the one causing a fuss. And although, he had been annoyed by the girl, to hear her in distress forced him from his leather sitting chair as he stalked over towards the desk she had, as he found, much to his surprise, had created a few tower of books- which, half of them were now on the floor and she and another young man, in a similar predicament of distress.

Really, was this woman so treacherous on her feet? And noting the way she was making a big deal about the stain made his lips curl back a bit (which sadly, was something sort of a grin, or close to it, for him,..) as he recalled his own plight when she 'killed' him earlier with a wine stain.

He was still off to the side, observing the situation with sniff to his nose before he removed a kerchief from his pocket and tossed it down at the pair.

"Another victim of the Queen of Aerona, I see."
His face, if it was meant to be a joke, appeared to be as well hidden as it ever did, his voice, almost growling like the animal he was dressed as as he offered the kerchief to the gentleman, then with another frustrated sigh, a hand to help the lady.

"I do believe, my Queen, that removing one's clothes in public is not usual protocol for a masked ball..." he also reminded. My, what a silly girl she was!

Avery tried to assure the lady several times that it was really alright and she didn't need to worry herself so much, but he couldn't quite manage to get a word in edge-wise. But he opened and closed his mouth several times in his attempts, before finally closing it and waiting patiently for her to finish and finally gave a good-natured laugh at her suggestion that he remove his shirt. Her flustered countenance was really rather endearing.

"Oh, I don't think that's –"

But before he could finish his sentence, the Wolf arrived. Avery looked up to see the unmistakable form of Lord Davishire Callister. Wolf costume aside, Avery had yet to meet another man of Davishire's... stature. Avery was acquainted with the man and though it would be incorrect to say that he disliked him, it would perhaps be equally incorrect to call them 'friends.'

"Lord Davishire," he greeted, inclining his head politely to the man. "What a pleasure to see you again. But I'm sure 'victim' is a little uncalled for, though."

Turning his attention back to Jillian, he assured her, "It really isn't nearly so bad. It's a brown shirt and once it dries you won't see a thing. And if, upon smelling me, people will think I've had a bit too much to drink... Well, I'm sure greater misfortune has befallen me before." He paused a beat and shifted his weight before continuing, with a smile, "I think chivalry would normally dictate that I help you up now, but I'm afraid I'm... ah... not quite in the position to do so."

Davishire's only response was a glare- and it was hard to tell if he even bothered to nod his head in acknowledgement, but as the man sputtered on to the woman about how the situation was ok, he found himself sweating grumpily beneath his costume as his hand was ignored, and was half tempted to take his offered hand to the girl, away. But then again, would it be just as awkward to remove it after it was extended? Besides, it seemed this snarky Lord Avery wanted to play the hero.

How typical.

Illi looked up at Davishire as he spoke, her face getting more and more red. He was clever, admittingly, but she didn't enjoy his snarky words directed at her. Her eyes wandered the the ground in shame as she realized his comment about the clothes was correct. She would have gotten so much teasing from her siblings if they had heard that...

But as Avery began to speak again, she looked back up at him. He was charming, really, she realized with a start. A true gentleman. She laughed at his comment about greater misfortune and waited for him to finish before replying, with her first true smile since she arrived at the ball, "You're a sweetie!"

Then before either of the two gentleman around her could react, she accepted Davishire's extended hand and carefully pulled herself up as to not stop on Avery. She threw him a smile, too, in hopes of making his depressing mood better. Then she let go of his hand and, while leaning over slightly, extended her own hand to Avery. "Your majesty," she replied, unsuccessfully trying to keep a straight face. "May I help you up... though whatever foolishness caused you to lie on the floor is unbeknownst to me."

Davishire felt his nostril's burn a little as a brow twitched and he looked around. Great, he had ran into another pair of lovers. Keeping his back to them, he kept his interests on the pile of books, and began to realize, after some time of examining them...
most of these were books full of historical mythos, legends and fantasies.
What was she doing collecting all of these things? He only spared one glance back at the lovers before rolling his eyes and stepping away so as to give Avery enough room to stand.

Seemed like Davishire was going to be just as warm and charming as he always was. Inwardly, Avery gave an exasperated sigh and wondered just what the man had to prove. Or who put the giant chip on Davishire's shoulder.

He adverted his eyes respectfully as Jillian was helped up to avoid the appearance of getting an inappropriate views of the girl. But he took her hand when she offered it and got back to his feet. "You're right," he agreed, imitating her affected speech, "I don't know what came over me. Very foolish indeed!"

Once he was up, he looked back to the brooding figure of Davishire. He was sure the man with his back to them was physically lowering the temperature of the room. Then something clicked. Perhaps the broody Lord of Wellspeer's icy demeanor and Jillian's flustered one. But then, why had the girl been stacking books? Well, you never know what some people...

"Sorry," he asked lightly and semi-diplomatically, "I'm not interrupting, am I? I'd hate to crash your book club."

Interrupt?
The word almost snapped out from his jaws, but instead, it actually startled the taller man as his broad shoulder bumped into a leaning tower of books, and down it went, as he flinched while the heavy books toppled all over his feet.

Then his scowl came and fiery eyes were set to Avery before he grumbled and bent over to clean up his own mess, and also, some of Jilli and Avery's...

Illi squealed as the books fell, her eyes wide yet again. So many books on the floor! And now they were all mixing together! How was she supposed to know which ones were the ones for Davishire and which ones were the ones for herself? Scratch that, she knew based on the title. But still! What if she pages got bent? They weren't even her own books!

"No!" Illi demanded. "Leave them down! I'll pick them up!" After all, she had to organize them. Getting back on the ground and on her knees, Illi started piling them up again like they had been before.

Until she had a realization.

If some of the books were for Davishire anyway, why didn't she just show them to him? "Aha!" Illi let out with a smile. "Davishire, remember what you told me earlier?" She stopped organizing the books and instead looked at him, her eagerness clear in her eyes.

As Davishire worked at the books, his furrowed brows were now focused on Illi.
"Don't be stubborn. The books can not remain on the floor!" he said, his voice rising a bit, as if readying for a roar. "Some of these are antiques, and if the pages become torn, then the Devil with them!" and he scooped them up anyways but at her question...
he shot another glare her way, but said nothing-
and if she would have noticed.. he WAS actually organizing them... but in his own manner, of course.
History books naturally... belonged with other history books..
and he was being rather delicate with those of antiquity, of course! (and selected them first, out of the mess)

"Oh," Avery said, presumably to himself. The Mute Lord Callister's jumpy response and the eager look in Jillian's eyes as she smiled about 'what he had told her before'  was really all the answer he needed. He was a bit torn about the mess that had been made but, as he began to back out of the room, he was a bit concerned that it was some part of whatever the two were up to. And that certainly had nothing to do with him! "Right, then. I'll just..."

Still, the harsh tone in Callister's voice gave him some pause, but by that point he was already in the doorway.

Davishire's will to protect the books way overweighed the fact that he was being snippy.

That was why she was interested in him in the first place. He knew who she was dressed up as... and now she learned that he loved books as much as she did? It was just so perfect! Well, ignoring his attitude. But maybe he just hated balls. Without even realizing it, a wide smile had spread all across her face.

She looked at Avery long enough to say, "No, stay! I don't see why there would be any reason for you to leave. Maybe this will interest you, as well." But then she returned her gaze to Davishire, since he was the one she had been planning this entire thing for, anyway.

"Sit," Illi commanded, though she planned to continue on whether he listened or not. Then she found one of the books she had picked out for him and handed it over.

"This is the story of an orphan girl. She starved most of her life and was often beaten by the other kids. But when she grew up, her entire life changed around. She learned that she was actually cast away from her family of nobles who had strong sexism against girls. But it turned out that they never had any boys, so when they died, she got all of their land and power. She never had to worry about her own life again, and she used her own experiences to influence the public to change their policies on orphans," Jana explained. Then, in case he hadn't already figured it out, she finished, "This was a true story."

Unless she was interrupted, she planned on giving a summary like that for all of the books. Which, if she remembered correctly, were fifteen of the fifty lying around.

"Oh no, I couldn't," Avery responded politely, but his expression was still a bit bemused. This was rather a strange scene! But whatever was going on, he felt fairly confident that he'd be rather the third wheel. As much fun as spiting Davishire might be, Avery was too well mannered for that.

Though he doubt she heard it, so preoccupied with her storytelling and - Avery felt a little jealous, or maybe disappointed by this - Davishire, he said a short, "It was lovely meeting you, Queen Librarian. I hope we run into each other again."

Avery paused for a moment in the doorway as Jillian launched into her story, shook his head to himself that somehow Davishire had ensnared such a lovely girl, and left the library.

Exit to Spumoni etc. (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15590.msg157951#msg157951)

At the irrevocable command of 'Sit', Lord Davishire's eyes actually went wide, and his face, normally wearing a darkened scowl, actually showed most obvious surprise.
Did this woman just command him to... sit? Blinking, he wrinkled his nose irritable as he felt one of his wolf ears wilt. He used a large finger to prod it back up, and after digesting in the mouthfuls of this Queen's words, he found himself growling silently beneath his breath which came out a little in his goodbye to Lord Avery.

"Good night, Lord Carwick."

But then his attention was back to her.

What was he to do with a thing like that? So deep winded in books and stories? Though it seemed she might be trying his patience, in truth, he just did not know what to do with her! Ironically enough, he never had to deal with such a woman before- bold and intelligent, yes, though bubbly like the wretched rest of her specie. Even still, the first two qualities ignited a curiosity within him that could not be shaken as he blinked and stared down at her- but hardly obeyed.

"Be careful with those!" he snapped, after a time, seeing her so eager with the pages. "That book is over one-hundred years old and if you're not careful you could tear a page from it!"

He tried to balance the book he now 'saved' from her (well- tehcnically she just gave it to him...) as he cast her a glare and leaned his quickly growing pile of books against his barrel chest with a sigh.

"And I am aware of that story, Lady... Treyburn." he began a bit more civily, and... feeling the need to add her name in there, just to remind her.. this was not a fantasy, and although he played with the idea before, she- not a Queen! She couldn't just flounce around and possibly destroy these books just because she wanted to tell him a story!- for only god knows why! For he truly was more worried about the antiquities than her little story as he gave a chuff, and moved to carefully set all of the history books down upon the table.

Taking the kerchief nobody had used, he now dabbed at the sweat collecting across his brow.
"And I don't need to be reminded on that history lesson, Lady Treyburn," he said, now rising from where he had been hunched over the table and looked at her. "For I'm well aware and shamed already enough by the Callister family name to have that story brought up again!"

Did she really not know it was his great-great-great-Uncle who had done such a thing? He knew his family's history more than most and well- if she did not know it, he had just admitted it to her now! And his father and mother all bragged about all of the stories- even the horrible ones. They were so vain it made his blood broil, and it was evident in his stance that that's what was happening now!

"And what is the point in all of this, Lady Treyburn? You've dragged out all of these books that should have been kept well guarded in their hiding places upon the shelves to only have them become poor victims of your fallen drinks?"

Really, did she not realize she could have harmed them!? He picked one up now, brushing off  few small droplets of water that had spilled on it, using the fur on his costume's sleeve before he sighed and glanced up at her again, placing this book, too, beside the rest and...
ironcically, keeping the books in some sort of his own order..
After all, she wasn't the only one with a bit of an obsessive compulsion to keep things arranged!

At first, Illi was tempted to slap him. She had never slapped anyone before, of course, but no one had ever spoken to her like that, either. After all, she never caused trouble for her older siblings. And her younger ones learned that teasing her didn't work... partially because her older siblings would step in. And strangers? They either ignored her (because she unintentionally ignored them) or thought she was a sweetheart. Which, given some of her more notorious siblings, wasn't much of a surprise.

The fact that he was criticizing her about books, of all things, only made his words sting more. Why on earth would she tear a book? She hadn't done a single thing except hand him the book, anyway! And the fact that the book was so old? She knew that just by looking at the binding. She might put up with him criticizing her personality or ignoring her or whatever, but this was simply too far. She stood up with plans of confronting him and his harsh words.

But as he continued to talk, her anger turned to horror. Partially because it gave her time to calm down, and partially because of the new information brought up. She had totally forgotten his last name and did not make the connection between the story and him...

The mix between how upset he clearly was, the fact that he was yelling at her (about books, especially!), and the personal relation of the story made Illi feel absolutely horrible. Still a little angry, but mostly horrible.

With a deep and uneven breath in, she looked up at the second floor. Maybe she could curl up in a couch up there and read a book. Away from him and away from her emotions. But as soon as Illi turned around so that she could run—for she had no plans on letting him get the pleasure of seeing her cry—her will collapsed alongside her strength. Now crouched down on the floor with her back to Davishire, Illi started to cry. She kept it as silent as she could, though her whole body was still shaking, and she tore off her mask so that she could rub the tears away from her eyes. She hated crying about real things, but she simply couldn't help it.

Blinking and almost expecting a rebuff, he just... blinked again and stared, bewilderedly at the wilted girl upon the floor. ANd then he saw her shake was she...
Good heavens! What on earth was she crying for!?

"Miss Treyburn!" he began, his first, his voice was booming and rough as he took a step towards her, but paused a moment in hesitation to find- she truly WAS crying, and somehow.. deep inside him, his heart panged with guilt.
"Er.." his hesitation came out in a growl, as all o fhis words did as he looked down at her before fishing out another kerchief and getting down on one bended knee (which surprised him even) as he offered it over to her.

"I sometimes forget my voice can be so harsh.." he growled, albeit softly as he waited to see if she'd accept his kerchief- and well, perhaps a segway into a small apology...
He should have known she hadn't realized what she was doing. He had seen her smiles and looks before but... well...

Rats. He was never good with girls. Let alone those that cried, for he never had to deal with them. Or.. at least any he cared for.

Begrudgingly, Braxton had left the game room in search of Janette because he was sure that Trevian , after all of his incessant whining , was probably not going to find the little hellion. So off Papa Bear went, passing one room after another and grumbling about maybe getting his son, Ethen, to do this instead. He happened by a room that was full of books and paused when he thought he saw a familiar face.

He poked his head inside and saw a girl crouched down on the floor , crying. "Jilli?" Then his sights settled on Davishire and the dark expression on his face was that , literally, of an angry bear. He slipped into the room and put himself between his sister and the creep that had likely made her cry. "You got thirty seconds to f$!#!@&  explain yourself, pup." He growled menacingly.

((So I will give Broodyshire a chance, but not really. :) Mature language was filtered out for lulz, mostly. )) 

Startled by the sudden rude appearance of another Treyburn, his own face showed some anger before it showed a bit of shame. He glanced down at Illi with a frown as he was forced off his knees, righting himself as a proper gentleman, and standing at his full 6'4", but leaving his signatured kerchief near Illi's lap.

"It seems I have upset your sister, Lord Treyburn," he said. "She was giving me the synopsis of one of her stories and I.. misconstrued what she said. I thought she was making a jab at my family, but it seems she had no intentions of the sort. You walked in in the after math. There is nothing more than that."

Except...

"Except for my apologies."And he paused stifly a moment, but then turned down to look at Illi's form and his expression, only then became soft.
"Though I suppose if you would allow me to, I can speak to her properly for the apology."

Illi just kept crying as Davishire tried to apologize to her. She could hear him, but not really process what he was saying. Too wrapped up in her own head, she wasn't really processing anything happening.

That is, until her loud brother entered in. Illi's eyes went wide and she glanced up at the duo as her brother started yelling. When Davishire tried to defend himself in that offhanded way, as she was sure he would do, there was no doubt in her mind that Braxton would cause some sort of pain to him. And... well, needless to say, her brother wasn't a weak one!

Illi picked up the handkerchief that Davishire had left next to her. She wiped off her eyes (which were starting to calm down in reaction to fear for her strange companion) and was just about to stand up to tell some sort of lie. About how she accidentally tore a book or something along those lines... which would be due cause to cry, given Illi's temperament.

But when he started talking... and saying the sincere words that he did, Illi was left speechless. She looked from Davishire—whose eyes miraculously seemed to become gentler—to her brother and back again. Illi felt as if she should say something, but she didn't know what. So instead she just smiled hesitantly, hoping it would break up any tensions.

There was a tap on the impossibly tall man's shoulder before either Illi or Brax could make an answer to the heartfelt apology.

And as soon as he turned to find out, no doubt, who had so impertinently invaded his space with such a crude gesture, there would be, without warning, a fist delivered directly to his nose.

It was an awkward punch, in part because Cherie stood a full foot and a half shorter than the man.  However, she showed no fear of either his improbable height or his ridiculous girth; why, both of her brothers bore terrible scars on their faces, and another brother had a tail.  And, she had a sister his size -- a girl, for goodness sake!  She only glared at him, eyes full of stubborn anger and pride.

"In Angsar's name, if I see even one more tear because of you, I'll shoot you in the face.  You don't apologize after you've hurt someone, you tremendous idiot.  You don't hurt someone, period.  If you insist on being a callous brute, you insufferable twat, you can just lock yourself in a tower at Angsar knows where, where no one will even miss you.  Now, tell me you understand and get the hell out of here!"

((Well that did not go the way I was expecting it to. Warning: some language.  ))

"No shit she's upset, asshole." Braxton snapped. Really? Why else would Braxton Treyburn be here about ready to defend his little sister from this dog if it weren't so?

Braxton folded his arms across his broad chest and listened to Davishire explain the situation. Needless to say, he wasn't impressed and he wasn't buying the apology, but he looked over his shoulder at Jillian and was about to ask her if she wanted him to run the wretched cur off when ...

He heard Cherie's voice raised and he whipped his head around in time to see the girl punch Davishire. His lips curled ,smirking.

That's my little sister.

"Nice hit, Little Red." He sounded quite proud because he was!

Dropped to his knees out of surprise more than anything, Davishire found himself on the ground near to Illi as he blinked and rubbed at his throbbing jaw. From this angle, he looked like a hunched over dire wolf, ready to attack, though the only one who might have caught his small smirk would have been Braxton's sister, Illi, as it slowly faded into his usual scowl.

Peering over now at the youngest girl, Cherie, he paused a moment, after he rose to his feet, and recomposed himself before the three of them. Hair and fur aside from his eyes, and his suit a bit less asymmetrical, Lord Davishire now turned towards the other Lady Treyburn and bowed his head to her.

"Young Lady Treyburn," for he already knew who she was without Braxton pointing it out. "I understand fully and will humbly oblige." And casting Braxton a half glare, he moved to exit the room. As much as he wished to remain and help clean up Illi's mess...
Propriety dictate that he not. Obviously not wanted by the Treyburn's, there was little left for a Callister to do....


OOC: Davishire has exited to the veranda (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15622.msg157850#msg157850)!

Illi's weak smile dropped to an open mouth when Cherie hit Davishire. She hadn't even noticed the girl come in! As surprised as she was, however, the whole situation just seemed kind of... comical. First her brother comes in and starts yelling at the Lord. His presence makes up for the lack of height competition. But then Cherie pops in out of nowhere and punches him. She could hardly even reach! Plus, it was clear that Davishire thought it a little strange, too. The smirk led Illi to believe that much.

Even still, she was a little upset that they made him leave. Sure, she was upset, but mostly at herself. Plus... she would have liked to have heard an apology.

Standing up, Illi wiped her eyes once last time, leaned over, and gave her little sister a hug. Then she backed up and looked at the girl seriously. "Cherie, you can't just go around punching people! Especially not at events like this... it's bad for our family reputation." Even Illi, who hardly paid attention to reputation, knew the Treyburns were not high on the list of people you should be around. "And it's cruel. I mean, you could have just scorned him like Braxton did." Though she was pretty sure he would have resorted to similar means of punishment... "If I had walked in and found you crying by a boy..." she hesitated before a foolish grin appeared on her face. "I would have smacked right across the face with a book."

Illi laughed before giving her sister another hug. No wonder the girl punched people—she had been a horrible role model! Well, almost everyone in the family was anyway. But that didn't mean Illi didn't help expand her spirit and courageousness...

"Well sis, thanks, I guess. But now I'm afraid we both owe mister Davishire an apology. After all, he hardly did anything wrong..." Except yell at her. About books. She was still a little cross... though the guilt outweighed that. Either way, she wasn't planning on letting her siblings see those emotions. It could only make things worse.

Cherie received the hug gratefully and laughed out loud at the comment.  "Of course you would.  Treyburns stick together, don't we?  And, anyway, it looks better if I punch him, don't you think, than if Brax does?"  She gave her older brother a quick grin and salute.  "He can pretend to yell at me and send me home early to punish me, but if he had done it, it would have been a big no-no."  Or so she assumed!

Putting her hands on her hips, the youngest Treyburn shook her head, then.  "Absolutely not, Illi!  I am not going to apologize to that creep, and I don't see why you would want to either.  He made you cry!"

Braxton smirked and leaned his sturdy frame against the bookcase behind him. He nodded and smiled , looking quite proud. He'd always admired Cherie's spunk. She was like Big Red and that wasn't such a bad thing. Not even for a lady. 

Lord Treyburn nodded, "That's right, Little Red. Good thing ya came too because if you hadn't hit him, I would have kicked him in the balls. Heh. Assuming that he has any, " He shook his head, " I look out for my own , Jilli. You're my little sister and I'll beat the shit out of any man that breaks your heart or Cherie's ;I think Lord Callister knows this now. " Yes, Braxton was informed and knew enough. "However, you're an adult. If you want to chase after snobby pricks, I won't stop you but if he hurts you again and I find out about it, he's a dead man." And he was pretty damn serious about that.

Illi had to admit that her siblings made good cases... things would have been a lot worse if Braxton had acted. First off, Davishire probably would have actually been hurt (more, at least). Second off, it could be excused if it was Cherie. She was the youngest, while Braxton was the face of the family. Plus, it wasn't like Davishire could rat out a girl so much younger than him.

Then again, Illi got the feeling he would have kept the whole situation a secret, anyway.

Illi enjoyed the intention behind Cherie's sweet words, but appreciated that Braxton had enough respect to let her make her own choices. Though honestly, the only person he would probably ever restrain from men would be Janette.

But despite both warnings from Cherie and Braxton, Illi couldn't help but want to apologize to Davishire. And she didn't even know why. He was being a jerk, even if he had some reason. But there was something different about him. Something quirky that made him stand out amongst all the fake nobles. Plus, he knew who she was... her costume, that is.

Illi gave Cherie one last hug and affirmed her, "It wasn't a big deal, Cherie, it really wasn't. I've just been expecting so much from this ball and was upset when it wasn't delivered quite as I had hoped." Which wasn't technically false—after all, she had been waiting for her prince charming and Davishire wasn't anywhere close to charming. "And if nothing else, respect says that I should apologize to him. But thank you—thank you both." She turned to Braxton and gave him a mischievous smile, "And I'll let him know you said that, don't worry."

She then leaned down and placed the remaining books carefully on the counter. While she wished she could have returned them to their spaces, she knew it wasn't required. After all, that's what the librarian was technically for. And surely the Duke expected to deal with a lot more at this party than a couple out of place books... plus, she wanted to catch up to Davishire while she still could.

With one last smile to her siblings, Illi said, "I'll see you guys later!" Then, in a slightly quieter voice, she added, "And don't let that handsome fallen angel learn about this, okay?" They all knew Jana would want to do something about the situation, and Illi didn't really want any more outside involvement. "Bye!" and she walked out of the library with full intentions of returning to its magnificent beauty someday.

----

Exit to: Vanilla Pecan Candies (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15622.0)

Cherie stared after her sister, the expression on her face one of incredulous disbelief.

"I don't get it," she announced to her elder brother as soon as the girl had gone.  "She's not that desperate to find a husband, is she?"

She glanced down to her fist, looking at it scornfully.  "I should have just kicked him in the balls.  It would have been easier than trying to punch him..."  But, no, she decided to be tough rather than a wimp!

"Well, I suppose it's back to the ball, isn't it?  Oh, you haven't seen Janette, have you?  Trev's been looking for her all night.  He's asked me twice already."

((A little language warning.))

Braxton shrugged , "Huh. Your guess is as good as mine on both accounts. " He chuckled and sighed, "I'm so glad my daughter has a good head on her shoulders. "

Ansgar! He dreaded to imagine what sort of nightmare parenthood would have been like if Carleigh had been so naive like Jillian or so wild and mean-spirited like Janette!  "Pity she couldn't take a page or two from your book. The kid needs to put those books down for a bit and pull her head out of the clouds."

He guffawed at her comment about kicking Davishire between the legs, "I would have paid all my fucking winnings from the games to see that!"  He meant it.

Now the conversation turned to Janette, "I'd like to find the giant Ma fooled with and sock 'em. That girl is a f---ing headache. Haven't seen her since Trevian let her run off." Yes. He'd blame Trev because he was the one whining about their wayward sister to begin with!

Cherie's face pinkened slightly, and she suddenly found the binding of a random book rather interesting.  "Well, it isn't as though I have a beau either, Brax.  Except for you and Dahlia, I think most of us Treyburns are hopeless."

It certainly seemed to be true!  Not that she was particularly complaining; she didn't want to be set up!

"Trevian let her run off?" she repeated, not commenting on the rest of Brax's complaints about her older sister; it was rather par for the course.  "He told me you distracted him and she got away!"

Braxton clutched his belly and laughed, " He would say that! I didn't distract him. He distracted me from my game, whining about Janette being intoxicated and flirting with him. So I told him to take her home and he kept whining and trying to weasel his way out of it... and she got away. Both of them a right old pain in the ass. I guess if I want something done, I gotta put on the big boy pants and drag Janette's sorry ass home myself.  "

He went over to his youngest sister and put a hand on her shoulder, "I was sixteen when I met Leanna. Between you and me, I was definitely hopeless without her. Heh. I still am. " He shook his head , "You're gonna be fine, Little Red. With or without a man. You just keep being you and whatever will be , will be. Everything falls into place eventually. " He patted her shoulder, "Alright, well it'd be damned shame to spoil yer night by askin' you to look for Janette. Just keep an eye out for her and let me know, okay? "

((I presume Cherie wants to be on her way. Or they could go Janette hunting lololol....I don't know why that amuses me so much. ))

Cherie giggled in response to Brax's complaints about her other siblings.  "Oh, but I think he's been looking really hard!  He's asked me twice!  And I've only seen him flirting with a handful of people!"

Which, really, was quite impressive for Trev!

Her smile softened at her brother's advice, and she spared a moment to give him a tight hug.  "Thank you."

But, really, he couldn't expect her to go back to just wandering around boredly, could he?

"I'll help you look for Janette," she announced as she released him.  "But!  You're going to owe me if I find him first.  Let's say...  10 cookies to the winner!"

-----

Exit to A Slice of Lemon Cake (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15589.0)

Braxton grinned and then laughed at Cherie's issued challenge. He was confident that he'd win because he wanted her to make the cookies. If Brax didn't know any better, he'd claim that Ansgar had bestowed his little sister with some sort of otherworldly cookie baking abilities! So divinely tasty! He felt his mouth watering already at the thought. Oh what a cruel , cruel image. Yes. He had to win! For the cookies!

" You're on!"

And away they went! The hunt for Janette was on!

(( I hate doing this crap. Exit to :A Slice of Lemon Cake (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15589.60)  ))

Illi solemnly walked back into the study from the ballroom (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=15643.0) without any of the gusto that she left with. With a sigh, she slumped against the wall. Why did she have to go and ruin anything? She had acted and spoken without a thought, and now Davishire probably hated her.

But she promised herself she wouldn't read. Not here. And breaking a promise she made to herself was something she was unwilling to do—so instead she twisted her own words. Instead of reading, she would write. Write out her thoughts and wishes and soul and all the things that she would never let anyone see... for more reasons than one.

Seeing as it was a study, Illi had no troubles finding some paper and something to write with. Then she sat up on one of the couches, using every ounce of her will not to kick off her shoes and lie across the cushions. After all, she was still at a ball and had to maintain at least a little bit of decency. So she sat in a manner that would at least be considered acceptable and started writing, tuning out the world around her. But unlike when she read, Illi would immediately hear any sounds made—after all, she couldn't have anybody reading her heartfelt words.

By the time Lord Davishire had made it to the study, he was red faced as he huffed, pausing just a moment to take in the place and it's empire of books before adjusting his wolfish mask and stepping into the room. Though the only noises heard were the echoes of his footsteps as he glanced around, eyes fervently seeking Miss Treyburn. Though it took some time, he finally noted her in a quiet corner before he huffed a sigh and stared over at her form, writing, so it seemed, by her lonesome.

"Miss Illi," he began, the name she had chosen him to call her, sounding strange to himself as it came off his tongue, and he gave a bow in her direction before approaching. "I hope it's not too imprudent of me to follow. But I felt it wise to accompany you here, seeing as I have upset you yet again."
And it was something, clearly, he was becoming very good at indeed! Bloody hell! He'd have to watch his temper and words this time. The girl seemed quite upset!

Illi jumped in her seat when Davishire called her name. She wasn't expecting him to actually follow her! She glanced around frantically for a few seconds before deciding to fold up the page that she had written on. After all, there was no other way to hide the words seeing as she had neither a purse nor pockets to stuff her writing into.

Once the original fright had passed, Illi looked over at Davishire and let out a small gasp. "Wait, you called me Illi!" she exclaimed exuberantly. Miss Illi was acceptable—now she no longer sounded like a copy of her mother. Standing up with a little hop, she walked over until she was just a few feet in front of her companion. Then she did another curtsy (this one much more energetic that her parting one had been) and smiled wholeheartedly.

"Your apology has been accepted!" she declared. "Ah, wait, but you haven't apologized! Oh well, it doesn't matter. I forgive you anyway." She giggled before seriously adding, "I shall apologize again myself, however. My words were out of place. But I'm feeling better now so I reckon no more slips will be had."

At first, Davishire countenance seemed indifferent as Illi was taken off guard by his arrival, but at her second reaction, to catch him calling her name, he fumbled a bit in his mannerisms but set his jaw, in spite of his blush.
"Yes, was that not what you wished me to call you?" he said in rebuff, and it almost appeared as if he sighed in indignation, except no huff came from his lips. And he took this time now to glance upon her as she curtsied, and out of habit, he nodded back to her, though it was out of politeness. And then as she went on, he grew a bit sheepish and nodded.
"But I had come for an apology, and it is with relief that you should accept, and so quickly," and at that comment, he actually managed a toothy smile. "But not an apology from you, Miss Illi, though for my own behavior. I am not the best at entertaining the fairer sex." and he bowed his head again, more deeply, to show his sincerity at his notion.
"Are you quite alright?" she had seen quite upset when she had left him, and now to find her writing, he had to wonder, had she been writing about him?

Illi tilted her head and looked at Davishire suspiciously. "Were you so appalled by my exit that you downed five wine bottles in a row? Or perhaps the grumpy Davishire that I met less than an hour ago has been replaced by a much more charming twin? You seem so much happier now. Which, I must say, makes you automatically better at that entertaining the fairer sex thing."

She turned and started slowly pacing the floor, now having too much energy to stand still. "I am quite alright, though. Writing always fixes my mood." Well, that actually depended on what she was writing about. But she didn't dare say that, in case that provoked him to ask her about the words she had been scribbling down when he entered. In fact, she realized that maybe she already provided an opportunity for that. So to divert that possibility, she quickly asked, "Do you write?"

Davishire's blush held- no thanks to Illi, and he found no words of retort at first.
"I suppose, though I thought it was no surprise that I am not a fan of such affairs. Balls and dancing had never been such a thing I had ever looked.forward to, though I suppose the lack of good company.can be blamed."
And then at her statement of writing, he.grew rigid and held up his chin.
"I have been known to pen a few words. I do spend a great deal of time in Uthlyn, that of which dictates the research papers I might be found working on, for in my free time I have some tastes and interests in history and antiquities." And then as he studied Illi he inquired, "Are there subjects in which you like to write most?"

"Families, usually," she responded while stopping to look at him straight in the eyes. "Sometimes perfect ones, sometimes ones that are being torn apart. But normally I write the relationships between fathers and their kids as they both grow up."

She started pacing again as she added, "I would much rather write about romance, but I have found that I cannot write what I cannot truly imagine—and love is something that seems to keep slipping through my fingers."

"And how about you," she asked curiously before quickly realizing that it might have come out as if she was asking him about his love life. "That is, do you write things other than research papers? They can be quite interesting, but they also tend to be a bit... drab. Does anything spark that imagination of yours to grab a quill and simply write?"

Davishire blinked as he stared at Illi, but simply responded, "I keep a journal if that's what you mean." And as he studied her, he had to wonder what sort of love she tried to have before, and inwardly chastised himself as he contemplated if he were already growing jealous over facts he knew not. Though that idea was absurd, he was still curious, but not nosy enough to inquire as he stared at her, keeping as proper and plain as he could.

That was not at all what Illi meant, but she let it pass without comment. A few moments of silence passed between them (which was much longer than she, being the talkative type, would have preferred) before she inquisitively asked, "So how do you pass your time? Just journalling and researching and being a lord or do you have other hobbies to keep you busy?"

She looked up at Davishire and frowned, once again noticing their height difference. He made her feel so short. Turning around, Illi stopped pacing randomly and instead headed back towards the couch.

Davishire relaxed only slightly when Illie moved away, and at her question, he stared at her and went quiet himself.
"I'm involved with a lot of recreational activities. I do enjoy riding and I have an extensive collection of guns. I enjoy hunting and travel, and normally, whenever I get the chance, which is rare, I do enjoy a good adventurous outing seeking antiquities or even preserving some ancient literature. THough I can't claim much on the hobby, and with the war, I hardly have the time, I assure you, with my family, though it's not as great in size as your own, keeps me busy enough at my estate. With my father long passed, I am the Lord of the manner, and to keep both my younger siblings in line can be quite the chore." And at their mention, his demeanor changed to something more of agitation as he shifted uncomfortably from where he stood.

"What about you, Miss Illi? Do you do more than just read, write and kill mythical wolves?"

Illi, now standing in front of the couch, turned at looked at Davishire with a wide grin on her face. "Are you just going to stand there? Come here!" she demanded, motioning him towards her.

With a lighthearted laugh, she joked, "And nope, that just about sums up my life!" But after a brief second, she silenced herself and added, "That was meant to be a jest, but now that I think about it it's kind of true... No matter, it is already clear that your life it much more exciting than mine! I wish I could go on adventures and preserve ancient literature. Though I would probably just end up hurting myself and anyone around me. But at least the books would stay safe!" Because as clumsy as she was, Illi had never harmed a book.

"Well, that would be guaranteed if you were to ever to join me on such an endeavor, for I'd never let harm come to a book- or a lady."
ANd though she had asked him to join her, he still remained a bit rigid from where he stood before he moved to approach but paused as his eyes caught sight of the pile of books upon the table.
"You seemed to have been quite busy earlier this evening," he said, keeping his eyes upon table, but not daring to take a seat- at least not quite yet, as he cleverly avoided her gaze for but a moment.

"Shall I take that as an invitation?" Illi teased with full belief that he would never let her come with. "Because if it is so, I will accept it."

Using the stiff Davishire as support (without any warning or permission), she climbed onto the couch and stood face to face with him. The cushions sank under her pressure, causing her and him to be approximately the same height. Illi raised her hands in victory before nearly falling over and having to hold onto Davishire's shoulders.

"We're the same height now!" she exclaimed proudly. Basking in her happiness, Illi completely forgot about Davishire's words about her business and left her response unspoken.

Davishire, taken off guard by her reply, found himself with a tangled tongue before retorting,
"Travel throughout Connlaoth is most dangerous this time in our lives. I would think twice before allowing it," he said, red faced at best, though not wholly against it, he did care for hte woman's safety, even if he had only made her acquaintance for but a few hours. She was most definitely different than all females he knew, and her reaction to his height and sudden enthusiasm as she stood on the chair only proved that fact! ANd Davishire only found himself staring back at her before he scooped her up off the chair and helped set her back down upon the floor, and still holding her he scolded, "Miss Illi! Please be rational! What if you would have fallen from the chair." And here he found himself half bent over to be more at her height this time so as to ensure she would not lose her balance as he kept her more securely on the safe, flat floor! Really! What was this girl thinking!? She could give him a heart attack, even in his youth!

Or.. perhaps something else with his heart as he found himself staring back at her and their close proximity, suddenly at a lose for words.
"Are you alright?" Though after he said it, he suddenly felt silly- considering.. she had done the action to herself and had much fun for it! And here he was, trying to pull the poor girl back into 'reality', though he wasn't quite sure if that was even the wisest of ideas, or what the girl probably even wanted indeed! But sure enough, he had already done it and was already holding onto 'his queen'. And as he pulled away, one of his wolf ears from his costume wilted, and then promptly after, as he sighed, the other one followed suit.

Illi laughed as he denied her self invitation. He was as stickily as an old man, and she found it hilarious. She hardly eve cared when he placed her back on the ground; after all, it wasn't like she planned on staying up there! She might have in a different situation, but since it was a ball and that would have been considered uncourteous, she has planned it to be a more temporary thing.

Even still, she found his words silly. Illi would have responded right away, cutting off his words, if it wasn't for her having the exact same realization of how close they were. Instead, she paused and turned her head sideways as he backed away, faking snobbishness.

"Of course I'm not alright," she replied pointedly. "You removed me from my throne. Do you wish to steal all of height and tall prospective for yourself?" If the sudden change in attitude and dramatics weren't enough to key him into her yet again teasing attitude, the inability to hide a mischievous smile would have done the trick.

Davishire would have gaped, but found himself blinking instead.
"Steal your height? If anything, perhaps one should donate you some. But as a queen, a noble lady's defects should be over looked." And at that, he responded to her smirk with a wolfish one of his own. Perhaps a little playfulness wouldn't kill him after all...

"Well it shouldn't be hard for anyone to look over me," Illi replied cheerfully. It seemed like Davishire's mood really did change between the ballroom and the study. Plus, she just made what she considered to be an excellent pun.

Getting onto her very tiptoes, Illi reached up and straightened up Davishire's wolf ears. "Let's fix these, though. Wilted ears makes you look so sad. And if I have to be the Queen and you the Wolf, wouldn't it be best to act it out before the tragedy?"

Davishire's blush seemed as if it could just never fade as he clenched his jaw and tried to keep himself in this reality. Really, did Miss Illi not know what intentions she brought on by such words? But having known her for even this short while, he presumed her innocence, though even he had to wonder.... did she honestly wish to flirt with him? And... if her implications were read at face value, court him or even marry? After all, the wolf had initially been the King, but he did not wihs to presume too much, less he become a fool. His sister... now THERE was a woman who presumed too much! And thinking of her sobered him in the moment as he sighed.

"Then you are implying my costume has been ill-selected, for before the tragedy struck, the wolf had been a King."
And he did not wish to presume she'd ever want to confine herself to him!

"Ill-selected?" Illi repeated playfully. "I thought you were a man of deep thought! With all that reading you do, surely you know not to take things as they seem from the surface." Of course, she didn't realize that he had already looked deeper into her words—and not in the way she intended, either (though perhaps not completely falsely).

"But it seems I must give you a little lecture," she continued, starting her pacing again. "There is more than one type of king, you see. Of course, there is the king in nobility and royalty, but I would hardly imply such a thing. By no means am I that sort of queen, either! But you could be the king of anything... the King of Dreams, the King of Dancing, the King of Desire... why, you could even be the King of Tallness! I like to fancy that we are all kings and queens of plenty of things." She paused to collect her thoughts before continuing, "I'm the Queen of Reading and the Queen of Creativity and the Queen of Shortness, I suppose. So you see, I'm quite certain that your costume was well selected, for there is no way you are not the king of a plethora of things!"

Davishire waved off the silly idea.
"I'd never claim to be the king of anything. No, no, the wolf suits me much better."

"You have no self confidence, you know that?" Illi noted, actually somewhat serious. "That's no good." Her voice did turn more teasing again, however, as she continued, "But... hmm... maybe you're right. A bloodthirsty wolf that seeks the flesh of young, innocent women in order to ruin their days and lives seems much more accurate. Yup." She nodded to herself. "That sounds about right."

Davishire made a face at her assessment.
"Hardly, it's not confidence I lack, I just prefer to remain modest. I do not like to presume I am a master of anything, though I suppose the few things I have a knack for I am well enough in those pursuits."
And sighing, he peered down at Illi as she continued to tease him.
"You should be thankful I do not care much for blood." Even when he hunted...
"Though when I mentioned myself to be more of a wolf, I mean of the loner variety. And wolves, some may say, could be more cunning than man." ANd at that jest, he grinned just a little- a grin that was flavored with just a bit of coyness.

"And yet this cunning, loner wolf is willing to spend time with my poor self?" Illi asked dramatically with a small gasp and a hand to her heart. "How honored I am! To bask in the company of one so wild and highly regarded such as yourself, why, there's nothing I could dream of that would be any greater!"

She paused and looked at him with a twinkle in her eye as she added, "I am really glad that you came, though." She winked and teased, "Now I don't have to worry about any old women coming in and cooing me—they'll all be scared off by you!"

"Yes, but I think I've scared off enough for one evening," her told her, his grin uncertain as he studied her. "And you might be the only one to care for my attendance. If it weren't for the nagging of my sister, I would have considered staying at home."

"A sister?" repeated Illi with a smile. "I didn't know you had a sister!" Though as she said that, she wondered if maybe she had heard that somewhere. "What's her name? Oh, I bet she's quite a joy! All of my siblings came here." She paused before she frowned and lied, "Except, of course, my eldest sister."

"Enough about that, though. Tell me about your sister? Did she come as a wolf, too?"

At the talk about family, Davishire instantly became soured, and no matter how bubbly and sweet his companion was, she could not deter him from his mood change.
"Yes, I'd much rather forget I have her," he growled, his teeth bared much like a wolf's in warning. "And I'm sure you've heard of her before, Lady Davina Callister." And it made him feel vile to even speak her name as he made a face.
"And only my sister came, but she would ever be caught dead never attending such a party. She loves these sort of events, perhaps too much for her own good. And no," he crinkled his nose at her last statement. "She came as a dessert." He rolled his eyes at that and had to shake his head of it.
"If I could choose a better family I would, but I can not say I am proud of any of my siblings. Though my youngest brother tries, I'm afraid my sister might have poisoned her with her vulgar ideals." And again his face was very bitter from it, that only then did the shake from earlier finally wilt one of his tufted costume ears.

Illi turned around and sat on the couch, patting the spot next to her. "Sit," she demanded (though kindly so). She cocked her head to the side, wondering why his sister was such a sour subject. Like he said, the name did ring a bell for her. But she hadn't the slightest clue anything about Lady Davina... just that she had heard her name before. In truth, she had probably overheard it while reading.

She weighed her options, debating whether to pry into the story behind the obvious distaste or just to let the topic rest. Illi, being one for stories, figured she might as well try to figure out what happened.

"Why?" she questioned quietly. "I mean, why do you hate her so much? ... You don't have to tell me if you don't want to. But sometimes it helps to have someone to talk to, right?"

Davishire bristled at the very thought to have to bring up the countless reasons as to why he despised his own sister, so when she patted the seat for him to take, stubbornly, he refused.

"It would only bring out my sourest of moods," he informed her. There was no use sugar coating the obvious. "Though if I were to at least save you face and find a way to quickly explain myself, my only answer for you is my sister is the poorest of examples of a woman. In fact, I'm embarrassed to have her be called my sister, though Angsar knows I've tried to reason with her, she always refused. Her ulterior motives always puts our family in the center of gossip, whether she intends to do it or not, and agrees with my mother and father over our family line deserving of the next seat on the duchy of Hellvion's throne." He shook his head. "Not that it's that single action that has me loathing her, but if you'd see or hear the things she's done.." and here, it could be noted, had he been holding something, he would have broken it in one clean motion-
So thankfully he was not, but the anger was there and his muscles tightened for it, even noticeably so beneath the furry costume of the wolf.

"It would be wise of us to change the subject," he then growled, hoping to be rid of the vile taste he got in his mouth whenever he thought of his despicable sister.

Illi listened attentively as Davishire spoke. She had to take his word for his sister having done other horrible things, because nothing he listed seemed like a reason to despise one's own sibling. She had siblings she liked less than others, of course, but she still loved every single one of them. Clearly that wasn't the case for Davishire, and Illi, not liking the fact that he had so much anger and pain welled up inside of him—even if she still didn't quite understand why that was so—, hopped out of her seat and gave him a big hug.

Her arms wrapped around his lower back and her face pressed into his chest. It was a strange hug for her, since he was so much taller, but she hardly cared. She just wanted him to feel better and to get rid of his hatred. And Illi, being the impulse thinker that she was, figured a nice hug was the perfect way to do that.

A hug was MOST unexpected, and the moment he felt the woman's arm around him, he clenched his teeth and visibly bristled, and he absolutely NO idea what to do! His mind, most unnaturally to him, was floundering and before he could protest or even consider enjoying such a moment- his sister's voice cut through the room.

"My, my, what a sweet scene here. Who would have thought Lord Callister would find comfort in a lady all alone in the Grand Duke's private study."

At Davina's voice, Davishire pulled away from Illi to growl.
"Davina."
And his sister merely laughed as she approached.


"Come now my big brother. Don't growl at me like a wolf," she said with a tart-like pout. "Besides, that is no way to introduce me to your friend." ANd here Davina gave Illi a once over before she stepped in between the pair of them. She didn't want them any closer than that after all.
"Lady Davina Callister, sister to Lord Davishire Callister," Davina said, and curtsied elegantly before her.

Illi jumped when a voice cut through the silence and gasped when Davishire said the voice's name. It was his sister. The very same sister that he had just been complaining about. And she had just caught them hugging—surely her imagination assuming something much different than the reality. Davina was a beautiful woman with a mocking tone, and Illi couldn't help but feel bad for Davishire.

So she decided to do what she could do best: tell a story. With a polite curtsy and a sad smile, Illi said, "I am Lady Illi Treyburn, sister to, well, a whole lot of Treyburns. I must apologize for the situation you walked in upon, however. It wasn't Lord Callister that was finding comfort... it was myself."

She paused and lowered her eyes to the ground. "Let me explain. You see, we were in the midst of a dance in the ballroom when I started to think about my sister. I'm sure you know her... after all, everyone does. I'm talking about the one that was exiled so many years ago. I rather miss her. You see, I used to follow her all over the place—like a little duckling, she said." She laughed sadly and her eyes started to well up. "She told me once when I was little that I would grow to be a queen." She looked back up at Davina and tears started to flow down her face. Sniffling, she added, "I dressed like this to honor her, but I can't handle the pain. I'm sorry, I'm crying again. I can't help it, I just miss her so so so so so much and the tears won't stay in." And with that, Illi collapsed onto the ground and starting bawling into her hands.

Davina, not at all amused by the girl's display of tears, only held a facade that she did when Illi was on her feet, but the moment Illi Treyburn's face was in her hands and she- on the ground sobbing, she grit her teeth into a cringe and peered over at Davishire as if she were about to laugh.

Davishire glared at her like the wolf he was dressed as before getting to one knee.
"Please, Miss Treyburn," he said stiffly, going back to a more formal phrasing since his sister was around (and still, as which, Davina found herself rolling her eyes over anyways, since seeing her brother make a fuss was embarassing enough. After all, she was a Treyburn! Who cared about her exiled sister anyway?)

Davishire placed a large hand upon Illi's shoulder before glaring a second time towards his sister who rolled her eyes again and tugged a kerchief from her bosom.
"Here, deary, cry into one of these. No need to smear your make up," she said, but Davishire knew she was being patronizing, and that the kerchief would reek of her perfume if Illi accepted, but even still, his sister was being civil for now, so he didn't snap at her...
yet. In fact, he was still perplexed over what Illi had said, though he supposed he'd inquire more into this later- perhaps after he shooed his sister away.

"And that ground is positively filthy. There are fainting couches around the room that I'm sure are more than adequate for such an out burst."

And at that comment Davina made, Davishire did glare at her and even growled her name in warning, but Davina kept her cool. It wasn't like she was afraid of the big, bad wolf.

Illi kept up her act of crying even as Davina's fake words made their way to her ears. In fact, she found that she was rather fond of the current situation. If the girl was going to act pretentious—even discreetly so—then she could do the same. Plus, it was clear how much Davishire didn't like his sister with the words he had just been spouting.

Illi took the opportunity of being hunched down in a ball to secretly stick her writing into her own bosom before taking Davina's handkerchief and blowing her nose into it. She then blindly (since her eyes were all blurry from fake tears) reached up in front of her and grabbed onto Davina's dress, pulling herself up weakly.

Her still crying self sniffled, "Okay... I'll go to a couch." Her hands started to unclench from Davina's dress and she moved to take a step before pretending to collapse again... but this time Illi fell onto Davina, giving the snobbish girl a hug of her own.

Davina's temper was being tried, and if there was one thing about the Callister's- it was that every one of them had a short fuse. Though Davishire was normally the one under gossip, Davina wasn't without an occasional outburst of her own, but when pathetic, Illi Treyburn threw herself at her with her tears, Davina recoiled back and began to push her away; and it was Davishire who stepped in to catch Illi.

"Are you sure you're not drunk?" Davina said, a bit in a huff, but she tried to keep herself as calm and collected as she could while she smoothed back some of her dark hair and gave a bitter and scrutinizing gaze over the Treyburn girl.

"Davina," her brother growled, baring his teeth at her as he held Illi towards him. "If you've come in here to stick your nose in business where it does not belong, then be off with you. I have no patience for a woman of your kind."

And Davina, taken back by his words, stared at him then down at Illi.
"Yet, you have the patience for her?" And at those words,s he seemed quite amused, especially when Davishire's face went red as wine. "Oh, stop your growling or people will think you truly are a wolf." And though she pouted, Davishire knew better and Illi would have been able to feel all of Davishire's bulky muscles tense as he held her. If he was the type of man to throttle his sister, he surely would! For it seemed no amount of shouting would ever keep Davina in line.

"I won't spell it out, Davina," he growled. "Now you can leave this study now, or I can show you to the door."

Raising both of her brows, a small smile spread across her lips.
"And appear so rude to your own sister infront of a friend?" And Davina was careful in her word choice as her eyes glittered as she peered from Davishire down to Illi in his arms. "Perhaps you should let your temper cool, my dear brother, and I could escort the lady elsewhere, where rumors are less likely to spread? Or have you not realized the pair of you are alone here in the study?" ANd she looked around thoughtfully before glancing over towards Ill, a cat like expression on her face. "Unless that was Miss Treyburn's intentions?"

"Davina! You will leave this study now or so help me, you will be thrown out this very instance!"

"Temper, temper!" his sister said, chastising him with a click of her tongue. And she had only backed up just two steps as she continued to grin at the pair. "And don't be so haughty towards me, I am only thinking about the poor girl's reputation."

And as Davishire was seething mad, he realized, through his rage, Davina had a point. He should not have cornered the poor girl alone.

"I can escort her out myself," he growled, not about to trust his sister with anything.

"And you think that will quell the rumors?"

"No, but I'm sure whatever fiasco you've dug yourself into this evening will outshine the one time Lord Davishire Callister was sharing a quaint conversation with a lady in the Grand Duke's study. I'm sure the war going can't compare either, so why don't you stop making suggestions where they are not wanted and get out of here before-"

"Before you throw me out?" she seemed to tease, a coy grin on her face as she laughed through a closed lipped smile. "Though I suppose it wouldn't do any harm for me to escort you both out of the room...."

"Davina.." And as Davishire growled back at her in protest, poor Illi would feel those muscles shaking with intensity yet again.

Illi stood in surprise at the argument going on. It seemed his sister really was an antagonist kind of character. She couldn't tell if it was a misunderstood antagonist or a real antagonist, but that didn't matter much at the time. Was Davina accusing her of being loose? Of wanting to lure Davishire in unholy ways? A blush spread across her face and she pouted as the tears kept coming. They still weren't real tears—after all, she wouldn't let something someone bad said make her cry. But she had to admit, the words did hurt.

The hurt didn't last for long, however, since she noticed Jana was standing by the door. Her sister stayed there, mostly hidden from sight, for most of the conversation between Davishire and his sister. But then she walked towards them, wine in her hand. And before Illi quite realized what was happening, Jana had poured all the contents of the glass onto the Tart.

Illi gasped, wondering how her sister was going to play that one off. Weren't they not supposed to know each other?! But as her sister proved shortly afterwards, she shouldn't be underestimated.

"Oops, my hand slipped," Jana said bluntly before walking around Davina to Illi and planting a kiss on her shocked face. "Are you okay, milady?" She took a handkerchief and wiped off Illi's tears.

Illi looked up at Davishire and then back down at her sister. "I'm sorry, Ezekiel, I've just been missing my oldest sister... you know, the one that got exiled?" In other words, the one that was right in front of her.

Davina, stunned into silence the moment the wine was dropped onto her costume, stood there while it dribbled down her dress and hair, soaking into most of it but a few red droplets had gotten onto the floor. It seemed Davishire wouldn't be the only Callister 'killed' by wine that evening. But even as it came so suddenly, Davishire himself wasn't sure if he should be angry or elated, considering how close Jana was suddenly with Miss Illi. He found himself blushing and feeling awkward for this 'Ezekiel's' attentions, so much that none of the words were properly heard-
Except his sister's.


"My, my, so I suppose I was right on your affections towards Lady Treyburn," Davina said, running a finger down her chest to draw up some of the wine before she placed her wine-laced finger into her lips. "The wine seems a bit too sweet to have wasted on a tart like me,"s he informed, still smiling now for reasons the other two would only realize after the fact, for Davishire wasn't as ignorant as some might assume him to be about relationships, and he knew the admirations from another. That, he did not necessarily need Davina to point out, but her words definitely influenced him.

"I apologize, Miss Treyburn," he said with a partial, rigid bow. "It seems I need to escort my sister out. I hope the rest of your evening goes well."
And before anyone could rightly protest, Davishire snatched onto his sister's wrist and dragged her out of the study. This night had gone on for far too long, and as much as he'd love to spend time with Illi, the moment was ruined and his sister needed to be taken as far away from here as possible. Yes, the Callister's were through with such an event, or so he thought, as Davina spared no expense to smirk over her victory. At least, for now, she had gotten her brother away from that wretched Treyburn. So it might have cost her this dress. She wouldn't have worn it again anyways.

OOC: If I keep them a little longer in the ball thread I'll let you know XD other wise we can plot things to happen after said event :3
Just let me know, zoz <3

Illi gaped at Davina, wondering if the woman had no limit to what she would do. She practically just licked wine off of her breasts. Her words were still sharp, but Illi hesitated to speak up since she knew Jana was playing the lovesick angel. Such an odd thought.

It seemed like Davishire and Davina were leaving before she knew it, and Illi looked frantically at Jana. This wasn't the right way for the night to end! Would she really never see her... the wolf again?! That just didn't seem right, though she couldn't figure out why.

Jana, on the other hand, completely saw what Illi seemed to blind to notice. She smiled and playfully nudged Illi. "Go on, go chase him! I'll go moan in despair that my 'one true love', Jillian Treyburn, doesn't love me!" she stated dramatically but quietly enough that the Callisters shouldn't be able to hear her. Jana's words were enough to push Illi to trust her instinct, and she took off without a word of thanks to her sister.

Jana snickered as she watched Illi trip over her own dress onto the floor and promptly pick herself back up before running again. That girl never seemed to stay upright... or run out of energy. She debated going back to the ballroom, but instead decided to just stand and wait until her sister was farther away. There was no predicting what Illi would do or how much attention would be called to it.

It seemed like Jana made a wise decision, too. By the time Illi got far enough to see Davishire again (which was in the hall directly outside of the study), she shouted his name as loudly as she could. She continued running towards him, not caring the slightest about the few guests who had been passing through the hall but were now watching her with curious eyes.

She caught up to him quickly and placed a hand on his torso to stabilize herself while she caught her breath. Running in heels was tough work, especially for a girl who did as little exercise as Illi. "Davishire," she repeated, panting. Her big, green, pleading eyes looked up at him as she continued, "May we meet again?"

Davishire's brows dipped upon his head as he looked at the woman as if she were mad.
"Miss Illi, what is the matter with you? Your all flush. Have you been running?"

Davishire Callister had made it all the way to his personal carriage by the time Illi had caught up to him. He had forced Davina into the carriage, who was trying to peer out to see who was causing the commotion and glared daggers at the girl from the shadows. But she probably couldn't see her as Davishire fully turned around to face her, his body blocking the carriage door.

"Miss Illi, -" he began, drawing in a long breath as if ready to give her a lecture, but surprised himself when he replied with a wolfish girn, "But of course, Miss Illi. But all you needed to do was call."

Illi laughed, still a little short of breath, and repeated, "Call. Of course." Then she paused, tilted her head, and added, "Wait, what? Call?" She felt foolish, not quite comprehending what he meant. Maybe she could blame the wine. The wine that she didn't drink. Maybe she couldn't blame the wine.

OOC: tiny post... sorry D:

"Yes," Davishire replied with a wolfish grin. "Send word via letter to request a meeting. You know, formalities in writing." He gave a nod of his head, his warm brown eyes taking in her blush and admiring the way she had exerted herself for something so foolish. "Or are you afraid such a request would be denied?"

Illi froze and her eyes went wide. A letter?! That wouldn't do... not at all. A few seconds passed before reality came back to her and she laughed nervously. Her family had long since accepted that they would never get to read what she was writing (though a few of them still tried just to see her fluster), but it had been a while since a stranger had mentioned writing.

Realizing that she would have to say something to not come off as even more strange, she replied, "But I don't know your address." Well, that was true. It probably wouldn't be hard to figure out, but it was true. "Plus, I don't know how to write. Wait. No. That's false." She mentally slapped herself for telling such an obvious lie—he had already seen her writing! "But my writing is horribly messy and I don't let anyone read it. Not even my family."

She paused, trying to think of more to say. Her mind racked through all the excuses she could make. "And, um, you've met my family! If they got ahold of a letter, there's no knowing what would happen. Especially Janette... she'd probably burn it just to bug me. Or have her snake eat it." Illi wrinkled up her nose and shook her head. "No, letters aren't really the best option..."

Davishire let out a laugh, a sound that came out sounding rich and deep.
"Then perhaps I will have to simply send my requests personally? Or would my presence appear too forward, my Queen?"

A blush spread across Illi's face as Davishire called her his queen. The embarrassment didn't help her already flustered self and she shook her head wildly, causing her crown (which had somehow managed to stay on throughout the night's various excitements) to turn lopsided. Reaching up and fixing it, she wholeheartedly denied, "Oh no, not at all! I'm afraid I've probably already appeared too forward myself, but I gave up on public image at the beginning of the night." That's what shouting at strangers did; she didn't regret it in the least, though.

Davishire's smile only grew. To see her so flustered had him beaming. He never had a woman act this way around him- after all, he was never given such a chance and well..
most women he scared away anyway.

"So perhaps in a few weeks then, my lady?" he said, bending down and taking one of her hands and kissing the top of it softly. "I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening and that us Callisters have not ruined it for you."

Illi was used to people kissing her hand—not in a snobby way, of course, but simply because that's what people did. Even still, Davishire's kiss felt unexpectedly gentle and warm while somehow managing to give her goosebumps at the same time. Illi halfheartedly dismissed it as the cool night air soaking into her bare arms, but her eyes looked up at him with admiration and longing.

Nodding her head slowly, she repeated, "A few weeks." In truth, that sounded like a rather long time to go. She almost said just that before her senses caught up to her. Blinking a few times and snapping out of her daze, Illi smiled and instead added, "And I'm afraid you did just the opposite, my King. You made the ball everything I was hoping it would be... even if it wasn't exactly how I imagined it would go. Then again, it would be quite the boring story if it was, wouldn't it?"

Illi paused for a few seconds, still looking Davishire into his eyes. A mischievous smile spread across her face for half a second as she decided to follow her instinct. For the second time that night (though Illi had already forgotten about the first time), Illi went onto her tiptoes and kissed Davishire's cheek. She then finished, "You had better go before your sister decides to poison one of us. I'll be waiting!" Throwing him a big and foolish smile, Illi turned around and walked back towards palace to find one of her siblings.

And if she thought her smile had been silly, his felt even more so, as he gave a smile through a scowl and shook his head at the girl, but his eyes never left her form- and once she was finally out of view, he resigned himself back to the carriage- which felt more like a prison as he ignore dhis sister through most of their journey back to the hotel they were staying at.

A few weeks...

Little did he know it would only be a day again before he'd see Miss Illi Treyburn again....

OOC: Their Shenanigans Continued here (http://www.spiritsoftheearth.net/smf/index.php?topic=16161.msg171790#msg171790)!