Nabbles, Dancing Queen

Princess Nabithia perks up her antennae at your arrival, bowing in a shimmering display of her
starlit silks as she buzzes with warm affection, "Avaris. A pleasure to see you as ever."

Arrival preceded by the sharp click and snap of his taloned, chitinous feet upon
the flooring, Avaris's azure gaze sparkles with merry points of light as it alights upon Princess
Nabithia. With a quiet laugh, he returns the bow in kind, the resonating tones of his myriad voices
touched with amusement as he says, "Nabithia. You are, of course, a delight to behold. Have we not
reached a stage of familiarity where we can dispense with bowing?"

"Pah," Princess Nabithia says with an impatient wave of her hand, "and what if one of the
anchoresses saw me? Not within the Temple, I do not think. It might encourage poor behaviour from
the others." Her compound eyes glitter with mirth as she preens, "And of course I am a delight. When
have I ever been anything but?"

The curved blades of his layered crest glint as Avaris tips his head aside in
acknowledgement of the point, as he says, blithely, "That is fair. Far be it for you to ever
encourage bad behaviour." Antennae undulating languidly, the kephera's evident pleasure burgeons at
Princess Nabithia's unabashed preening, the glimmering in his eyes growing brighter still as he nods
in a most serious fashion. "Why, never, of course. That would be akin to the ocean somehow being
dry."


Acknowledging the point with a tilt of her head, Princess Nabithia gracefully steps forward as she
assesses you and asks, "Why the flattery, I wonder? You are sometimes more sparing with it, deserved
as it is." There is an amused undercurrent to her harmony of buzzes as she continues in as blithe a
fashion as you, "What are you planning? There is a deviousness to you, I sense."

The clawed tips of Avaris's upper right hand click upon the gleaming chitin of his
armoured torso, his fingers splayed in a gesture of mild shock. "Devious? I? Why, Nabithia, I lavish
you with affection and praise, and you level such accusations at me in turn." The great wedge of his
head pans slowly back and forth, disappointment hanging heavy from his words as he sighs, "Typical."


Taking a single finger and pointing it squarely at you, Princess Nabithia says, "Tsk, tsk. I will
not stand for such false insult!" She lets out a bright, chittering laugh, then crosses her scythe-
like arms. "But if this is typical of me, then you should be pleased, for you sought me out for my
typical self, no?"

Drawing back as if the accusing finger were a most deadly weapon, Avaris lifts his
hand from his chest to make a series of vague, warding gestures, much as one might in the midst of
fending off an attack in a knife fight. "Such a readiness for violence!" The exclamation is bright
and ringing with barely suppressed delight at Princess Nabithia's manner, the laughter that chitters
from her igniting a brief flood of scintillating motes of light within his natural eyes. "Oh?
Perhaps I sought you out in the hopes of a rare moment of good manners, kind words, and soft
demeanour."

"Hmph!" Princess Nabithia snorts loudly, the sound shrill with equal parts indignation and
amusement. "Then go elsewhere for your company, Avaris." Her own compound eyes appear equally aglow
with delight. "Or temper your expectations for something more enjoyable. Didn't you promise me
something, hm?"

Adopting a cool hauteur as naturally as one might slip on a particularly well
-tailored glove, Avaris turns the point of his chin up and aside, retorting with a reverberating
"Hmph!" Flicking the fingers of his lower left hand at Princess Nabithia in a brief fluttering of
disdainful, gleaming gold, he says, "Perhaps I shall do just that, Nabithia." At the question, he
pauses, lifting a single claw to his armoured jaw as he feigns a vague, thoughtful manner. "Did I? I
make so many promises, you see, it can be easy to lose one or two in the flood."

Princess Nabithia snaps a wrist to shake out a dainty ivory letter tied with a peach ribbon, which
she unfurls with neat fastidiousness before reciting: "PS: We are going dancing. I will provide the
garments and the location, and you shall bring the beauty and the elegance. Will notify you as to a
date, limber up and practice in the meantime." She glances over the letter at you archly before
continuing, "Would not do for one such as I to show a Princess up so easily." At that, she snaps her
wrist once more and ties the letter neatly up and folds it into her silks, looking at you
expectantly as she crosses her arms once more.

Avaris listens with the air of one politely humouring a particularly stroppy royal,
his air of patient, long-suffering stoicism entirely belied by the ceaseless glitter of quiet
pleasure that illuminates his regard. Once the incriminating missive is secreted away once more, the
large, helm-like wedge of his head lists ponderously aside, a thoughtful hum lingering in the air
about him. "That does sound vaguely familiar...That excellent flow of sentence, the efficiency of
word placement..." With breathtakingly false innocence, he inquires, "Do you have a particularly
charming admirer, perhaps?"

Every part of Princess Nabithia appears to bristle at the suggestion, her antennae sharply erect as
her voice hisses out like steam through clenched mandibles, "How he plays the oblivious jester!
Oooh, to make promises with no intention of keeping htem for a lady. If I have an admirer, he is an
utterly useless one, for he is you!" She splays her hands in a dismissive, displeased gesture of
offense, haughtily turning up her chin to look skyward as her ivory carapace blushes faintly with
rosy pink.

The glee that radiates from Avaris grows in tandem with every passing moment of
Princess Nabithia's rising ire, until a low, harmonic laugh shivers throughout the chamber, pleasant
and warm as it rings with delight. Crossing the distance between himself and the Princess in a
single step, he extends a single finger to touch Princess Nabithia's arm, the contact light as down
feathers. Gently, his words resonating with sincerity of affection, he says, "Come, now, my dearest
friend. You know that I am only teasing you, as you know that none admire you as I do."

Lightly poking you back with a single finger, though it is nothing against your great armour,
Princess Nabithia says, "Then you have a single mission to prove your affection! Prepare yourself,
for I expect to dance with you in, say..." She considers this, her compound eyes glittering with
calcaculation. "...a day's time? That seems sufficient for you to organize yourself." She taps the
ground with her foot, saying, "Let us see how well you admire me, indeed!"

"Shoo! Shoo!" Princess Nabithia says to you as she waves you away.

Placing his palm upon his chest and bowing gravely, Avaris's tone is serious as he
says, "You are magnanimous to allow me such, O Princess. A day it shall be."

Princess Nabithia nods her head sagely.


You incline your head politely to those around you.

((Buying CLOTHES FOR NABBLES))

Dusky and deep as the darkening firmament at twilight, rich azure
colours hue this dress, the silky folds dyed masterfully to emulate the
span of the sky between day and night. Inky indigo, almost a sooty jet
black, frames the face and decolletage, while light boning offers a
complimentary fit to the female form. Tightly tracing the contours of
the body, the dress wraps around the torso, the material blushing
lighter, seamlessly, into a dark, shadowed blend of navy and violet.
Curving around the hips and trailing downwards in a satiny fall of
dwindling chroma, the garment ends at the feet in a melting wash of
blue, the cerulean pure and deep as the last hint of day; streaks of
golden thread sketch a faint hint of lingering clouds, while silver-shot
cord wraps around the fluttering folds to give the garment a weighted
hem, ensuring a graceful skirt. A scattering of diamond chips completes
the gown, winking in ambient light to suggest the barest shimmer of
dawning starlight. Elegant, refined, and breath-taking, this gown
emulates the splendour of eventide in a dazzling meld of priceless
materials and exquisite craftmanship.

These shoes are composed of sleek leather, the slender straps of their
vamp overlapping one another to gracefully conceal the tops of the feet,
encasing the toes in iridescent, metallic hues. Each strap is tinted a
different shade, all pale and subtle as the first whisper of dawn easing
past the edge of the world: carnation pink, seafoam green, dew silver,
and winter's blue. Wrapping about the heels and encircling the ankles,
metallic-gold leather lends stability to the shoes, preventing them from
slipping off. Thick, solid heels, their circumference encased in
morning-silver studs, serve to lend a modicum of height, emphasising the
curves of the legs. Reflecting every unassuming glance of light, the
heels twinkle dreamily with ethereal colour, evoking the empyreal

Alternating between milky white opal and sparkling clear diamond, these
round gems are joined by tiny platinum links to form this lovely choker.
Thin sheets of platinum wrap around the back half of the stones, forming
a small rim around the edge for the links to join to, and each gem has
been lovingly polished to shine with any catch of light. Attached to the
front, dangling in the hollow of the throat, is an almost-glowing blue
moonstone, perfectly round and held by tiny vines of platinum. A
delicate platinum clasp closes the choker snug around the neck.

A series of fine, filigreed links makes up this delicate bracelet, each
one wrought from palest platinum, silvered-white and polished to a
shine. The links twist and coil upon one another in an intriguing
arrangement, the whole forming, eventually, a length of sufficient
proportions to gently encircle a slender wrist. Worked into the pattern
at regular intervals are tiny, intricately-crafted lilies worked from
glass of perfect clarity and transparency; some are left colourless,
others tinted with palest ice-blue, soft lavender, serene jade and
gentle, pale gold. The delicate petals are not left entirely smooth; the
surfaces of many have been carefully roughened, an effect reminiscent of
a gentle frost. The binding of light essence into each little flower
casts a gentle glow around each one; the soft light shining from the
core of each blossom cannot fully penetrate the frosted petals, and the
result is the illusion of a fragile breath of mist cloaking each lily.
Droplets of glass bound with cloud essence anoint various of the petals,
cool and gleaming wetly like morning dew. A simple lock is poised to
fasten the bracelet, from which a short length of fine chain descends,
bearing at its end a tiny glass bell tinted wild-rose pink.

Folded with great care from luxurious scarlet vellum, this origami
package has been wrought into the shape most commonly linked to romance
- the love-heart. Many tiny folds allow for rounded top edges, curving
up and away from each other, only to meet once more in a sharp point at
the bottom. With a general rounded shape, the hollow origami allows for
the secreting of any manner of item or love token inside, which is only
revealed upon opening the sweet heart.

Lovely, scarlet-hued vellum has been folded into this entrancing rose
blossom, its monochrome red colour the one clear sign of its inorganic
nature. The petals themselves blush prettily, gently curving from a long
and thornless stem to unfurl in full bloom. This floral token is
accented by two papery leaves to complete its mimicry of a rose blossom,
making it ideal for a romantic or celebratory gesture.

((At the ballroom))


The Grand Collectivist Ballroom.
Banks of clouds roil about here. Bright and airy, this stately chamber is a flawless circle in
shape, with a high domed ceiling adorned with a masterfully painted fresco illustrating the
reemergence of Hallifax into the present time stream. Depicting the precise moment when the
translucent shield separating the city has begun to shatter and the winds of the First World are
sweeping once more through the crystalline city, the fresco's jewel-like colours shine bright and
pure overhead. A series of wrap-around balustrades ornament several gilded balconies that rise up
towards the domed ceiling, segmented by an elaborate mezzanine inside which an orchestra pit has
been cleverly devised. Tall arched windows encircle the ballroom, the clear panes bordered with
narrow stripes of sky-blue glass that throw azure bars of light across the room in a radiant
starburst pattern when struck by slanting rays of sunshine, moonbeams, or starlight. Between the
windows, fluttering pennants hang from gilded poles, each embroidered with the state seal of
Hallifax and the sigils of its guilds. Regal blue velvet carpeting lends an impression of warmth and
luxury along the walls and upon the wide steps descending into a sunken marble dance floor at the
centre of the ballroom. Seated in the orchestra pit of the ballroom, the various Symphonists of the
State Symphony Orchestra remain poised to perform, awaiting instruction. Before the entirety of the
orchestra, Conductor Fre'zik zi'Prouep holds aloft a diamond baton whilst studying the sheet of
music at his podium with intense scrutiny.

Princess Nabithia tells you, "I am ready with the elegance, my friend."

nabitell And the beauty is implicit, of course. Would you like to be escorted to our rendezvous or shall I tell you and allow your to swan your way over?

Princess Nabithia tells you, "I am ready with the elegance, my friend."

nabitell you are so very good at it, it is only fair

With a regal incline of her antennae and a flutter of diaphanous silks, Princess Nabithia strides in
from the northwest.

A slender, statuesque creature who carries herself with utmost elegance and refinement, she is a
compound-eyed kephera princess dressed in an azure dress dusky and deep as the darkening firmament
at twilight. The slim contours of her porcelain figure are encased in an alabastrine carapace, with
ornamental flourishes of chitin upon her delicate shoulders and long limbs. A pale bracelet of mist-
wreathed lilies softly glows upon her right arm, while a delicate diamond and opal coker twinkles
enchantingly about her neck. Pearlescent in quality, her ivory carapace is touched in subtle casts
of champagne, and flows into tints of rosy quartz and blush pink about its edges, leaving her
similar in appearance to an orchid bloom. Scythe-like in execution, her long limbs lend her a
further semblance of lissome height as she stands tall upon elegant hig-heeled shoes of metallic
dawn hues. A stole of starlit silks settles about her shoulders, delicately draping about her
opulent attire. From a beautiful, if alien, countenance, her compound eyes reflect her surroundings
in tinctures of aubergine and merlot, while slender, delicate antennae curve back from her temples,
a crown fit for any queen of the hives.

Princess Nabithia twirls about, the azure silks of her gown swishing with the movement, as she
declares, "The elegance has arrived."

Avaris observes Princess Nabithia's display with the appreciative attention it so
clearly deserves, not a single one of his effulgent eyes straying from the resplendent Princess. An
admiring hum resonates throughout the airy ballroom as he lifts his hands to applaud, nodding
approvingly. "So it has, and you are, despite the inherent impossibility of the notion, more
beautiful than ever, Nabithia."

Absurdly pleased at the compliment, Princess Nabithia lets out a soft hum of approval, her carapace
blushing all the rosier shade of pink at its utterance. She delicately rests a hand at the choker at
her neck, which gleams in the crystalline beauty of the ballroom as she admires her surroundings.
"This is my first time in Hallifax," she says curiously, her metallic heels clicking gently against
the jewelled floors. "I am curious, why did you choose this place for your display of admiration?"

The sanguine banners of Avaris's antennae wave back and forth in tiny, delighted
motions, the kephera's seven azure eyes awash with glittering light as he takes in the lovely blush
that colours Princess Nabithia's carapace. Turning his head slightly to glance about the ballroom
with little interest, the paladin soon returns his attention to Princess Nabithia, responding, "It
is but my second, and the first was to scout suitable locations for our little meeting." Turning a
hand palm-up, he explains, "It seemed a fitting place for you to dazzle me - A jewel among jewels,
so to speak. Besides, we are always meeting in New Celest. I thought that exploring some would be a
nice change of pace."

Princess Nabithia accepts the explanation with a brisk nod, her antennae settling with the motion to
rest like a tiara upon her brow. "I have heard another Princess resides here," she says
conversationally, "one by the name of Setisoki, within the hall of the Adherents. But I do not know
much else of here." She glances up at the arched windows, the light filtering through them casting
her ivory carapace in pale bluish shades, and then glances at you with mischief. "Ah," the kephera
settles on at last, "I have determined the true reason. You fear being caught dancing by one of the
Star City's people, hmmm?"

With a dismissive twist of his upraised hand that is entirely sincere, Avaris's
response is similarly true in its disinterest, "A lesser Princess. I have the most wondrous one of
all within my clutches - Why should I care for a jewel of inferior quality?" A number of the
stylised eyes that rest upon his wings follow Princess Nabithia's gaze, studying the windows for a
moment before he says, "I do not know much of it either, in truth." Eying the elegant creature
before him with no small amount of wry amusement, he drawls, "Ah, yes. I am ever so concerned with
my reputation amongst the people of New Celest. You have found me out."

With a slight lift of one vast shoulder, you say, "I am more free to be a touch more relaxed, I
suppose."

"Pffft," Princess Nabithia retorts, the sputtering sound at odds with her decorous appearance, "you
flatter me with your pretty little words, and you will stab me with the next, for I know how you
are. You cannot resist jesting at my expense!" She nonetheless puffs up slightly at the praise, and
at the comment of New Celest, continues, "There are some you care for more than others, of course.
You think I do not see such, but I know. I am glad you are not wandering alone, poor inept social
creature that you are." She spares a glance at the State Symphony Orchestra as one of her antennae
disentangles from her crown to raise in a question mark, intrigued. "An entire orchestra for our
music?" she comments thoughtfully. "You have spared no expense."

Despite the assertion put forth by the Princess, Avaris makes no attempt to follow
up his flattery with mocking jabs, instead allowing his sole response to be a faintly amused
silence, filled only by the enigmatic, sparkling smile contained within his eyes. "You are ever so
kind, to correct my bumbling about, poor, inept social creature that I am." Turning to the politely
awaiting orchestra, the paladin dips his chin in a slight nod of confirmation, tone mild. "Just so.
You are deserving of this, and far more, my friend. I would have all the Keepers of Song sing for
you while you dance, if I could. This shall suffice, I think."

Avaris extends his upper right hand to Princess Nabithia in invitation, the
gleaming gold of his palm awaiting Princess Nabithia's. "Do you have a preference for the type of
dances?"

Princess Nabithia peers at you intently, attempting to reach the lofty height of your helm-like head
by standing on the tiptoe of her metallic dawn-cast heels. When no mocking riposte is attempted, she
places a hand upon her chin as if assessing a minefield for potential dangers, the mist-wreathed
lilies of her bracelet jangling with the motion. "Suspicious," she murmurs to herself, before
acquiescing and placing her hand in your. "Perhaps something slow would be kindest to someone of
your lumbering height and proportions," she buzzes nonchalantly. "Such as a waltz?"

Weathering the attempt to peer at his visored face with the same equanimity as the
slander murmured about his intentions, Avaris's grasp upon Princess Nabithia's hand is gentle as he
draws the Princess along to the center of the dance floor, amusement colouring his choral tones as
he remarks, "If you wish to limber up with something sedate, I can oblige. I do hope you are
acrobatic, however." With a nod to the awaiting conductor, to whom he directs with a polite, "A
waltz, if you would, to begin," places his upper left hand upon Princess Nabithia's waist, lightly
teasing as he asks, "Shall I lead, or would you prefer to do so?"

Jutting her chin out proudly, Princess Nabithia rejoins, "You should lead if you want to impress me
at all, but be warned, female kephera are not used to being led, nor do we take kindly to being led
poorly." Her heels tap pleasantly against the floor with the movement, the azure silks of her gown
sweeping against the crystal as she allows you to lead, her antennae raised as if daring you to
impress her as the music begins to play in earnest.

Princess Nabithia's goading slides harmlessly off Avaris's easy confidence, his
relaxed demeanour unperturbed by the blatant challenge as he slips into the opening steps of the
waltz with a smoothness that belies his immense, hulking stature. The cruel, arcing talons of his
huge feet click in the pleasant rhythm of the sedate dance, keeping perfect time with the warm
melody of the orchestra's strings, harmonising with the resonance of his voice as he says,
conversationally, "You are radiant tonight, Nabithia."

"And you are less clumsy than I had anticipated," Princess Nabithia says with a sharp click of her
tongue, fluidly following you in graceful circles around the ballroom as the darkening colours of
her gown flutter about her in mimicry of twilight, interrupted by the slightest peek of dawn
afforded by her heels. The slow dance allows for the inherent grace of the kephera to manifest in
all its precise motions, the royal bearing she possesses allowing for her to exude a quiet,
confident presence in her elegance.

The verbal dart falling harmlessly from the paladin's relaxed poise, Avaris's
response is light, as says, "I do not think that would be terribly difficult to achieve,
considering." The heavy, shimmering gold of his folded wings shifts and sways like a rich cloak, the
dense fluff of his mane teased to and fro with each confident step. "You are, naturally, as graceful
as I anticipated. You flow like a dream, princess."

Seemingly uncertain how to proceed in her usual verbal sparring, although her feet smoothly continue
in their rhythm, Princess Nabithia considers a similarly tart reply before biting it back, her
expression one of a general reconsidering her strategic on the battlefield. "Do you enjoy dancing,
then?" she asks, her new plan of attack a far milder one, her harmony of buzzes rich with notes of
genuine curiosity. "You speak as if you have had your wealth of partners."

If Avaris notices the adjustment of tactics occurring within the elegant creature
that he holds lightly within his clawed hands, he makes no sign of it, continuing with his amiable
mien unruffled. "Generally, no. I am not fond of suffering the touch of others, but I do enjoy it
with the few I am comfortable with." The glinting spires of his chitinous shoulder rise in a slight
shrug. "I have trained and practised extensively, which I do not think truly counts. What of
yourself?"

Like a trail of starlight dancing behind her, the sidereal stole that drapes across Princess
Nabithia follows her across the dance floor as she faultlessly matches your calm, measured pace.
"Many are ungraceful in their presence," the kephera concedes with a mild glance of distaste at a
city administrator, before continuing, "I merely enjoy dancing. I did not do it much within the
Hives, but it comes naturally to me. It was less practise and more pleasure."

Ignoring the presence of the administrator even before she is sent scurrying by
Princess Nabithia's modest displeasure, Avaris's entire attention remains focused solely upon
Princess Nabithia, leading the Princess about in a fluid back and forth. "Then let us see if we
cannot make it somewhat more enjoyable for you, shall we? Do you feel able for something with more
zest?"

"If you feel you can accomplish it," Princess Nabithia replies breezily, her antennae settling once
more into a regal crown. There is a competitive nature to her answer, one made all the more evident
in the brisk steps she begins to take as the music accelerates, comfortably falling into the new key
with all the ease of a natural performer. "What sort of music is this?" she asks, lifting her head
to glance at Conductor Fre'zik zi'Prouep skeptically.

The choral harmonics of his multitudinous voice rich with amusement, Avaris
responds, "I think I can manage it." While lacking the ease of Princess Nabithia's innate
performance to aid his transition from the waltz into this new style, it seems that his adaptability
is sufficient to allow him to slip into step along with the Princess without stuttering. "I have no
idea," he replies easily, the blades of his heels clicking sharply upon the jewelled floor as he
steps back, rolling his wrist out in a snappy motion, his grip on Princess Nabithia's hand firm as
he moves. "They have free rein for this portion, so long as it is lively."

"And what if I give you free reign, hm?" Princess Nabithia says with a teasing hum to her words, her
compound eyes relishing the challenge as her skirts rustle with around her, flowing almost like
twilit waves caught in a brisk wind. "Let us see what all that practise has taught you." The
restless tapping of her heels against the crystal floor is like a series of staccato notes, sharp
and clean, as her hands remain equally firm in your.

A flash of brilliant light gleams in response to Princess Nabithia's words, a grin
glinting in Avaris's voice, if not upon his immobile face as no small amount of relish suffuses his
words. "Just remember that I am not going to drop you." With this as the sole, vague warning, the
massive kephera abruptly pulls Princess Nabithia towards him, reaching out with his other hand to
grasp her by the waist - but rather than halt the Princess's momentum, he harnesses it, twisting the
smaller figure up and over in a whirling series of arcs that send Princess Nabithia's dress flaring
out like the revolution of day to night sped to dizzying degrees. Smoothly, he sets Princess
Nabithia once more upon Princess Nabithia's feet, on the opposite side from where she started. He
allows the Princess no time at all to recover, as he draws Princess Nabithia into the next series of
steps as the music changes, growing yet more rapid and heated in rhythm and flair. In a peculiar
blend of rolling, percussive footwork and rotating shoulders and hips, he pivots effortlessly into a
series of flowing motions that crackle with frenetic vigor, laughter spilling forth from him in
rich, delighted melody.

While a lesser partner might be startled by the abrupt nature of your motions, Princess Nabithia
appears instead energized by them, her ivory figure twirling with the reckless abandon of a star
shooting across the night sky. The lack of stiffness in her movement is enhanced by the game smile
she flashes at you, the daring way her glittering eyes encourage you to throw her further, faster,
as a rich laugh of her own leaves her lips of almost wicked delight. "If you drop me," she teases,
her breath hitching for a single all-too-fleeting reprieve, "then your lack of social graces will be
the least of your worries." And with that threat spoken, she resumes the whirling across the
ballroom with all the joy of one who has utter faith in their partner's ability to lead them with
surety.

The unrestrained, gleeful abandon with which his partner reacts elicits unbridled
delight in Avaris , the deep, humming harmony of his laughter ringing out, the resonating chords
being skillfully interwoven into the lively music by the orchestra. "Then let us see if I can throw
you high enough to rejoin the heavens that you slipped from!" Coiling Princess Nabithia inwards with
a series of rapid, tight spins that bring Princess Nabithia's finer frame flush with his own, the
golden figure continues to whirl, picking the Princess up off Princess Nabithia's feet and turning
more and more rapidly, so that they are a blur of golden comet and shining starlight. When it seems
he can go no faster, the blades of his feet scraping in an unwavering, clarion tone upon the floor,
he ~launches~ Princess Nabithia upwards with breathtaking ease, sending the Princess twirling
straight up, rotating in tight, horizontal spins at dizzying speeds. Avaris, by contrast, grows
still, setting his feet apart and placing all four of his hands before him, palm upwards, and waits.

Her scythe-like arms wrapping about herself, Princess Nabithia spins for several long moments, the
effulgent silks about her shoulders swirling about her like stardust. Beneath this mantle of
sparkling white, her skirt pools around her like night-spun gossamer that clings to the immaculate
porcelain of her delicate frame, the jewellery at her throat and her wrist glittering with the
movement. Rather than any acrobatics to impress, the kephera chooses merely to focus on the
tightness of her motion and composure, executing the simple twirl with all the grace that can be
possibly mustered in its single arc. When she lands, it is as gently and as purposefully as an angel
descending from Celestia, fearing nothing as she lowers to the ground and your waiting arms.

It is less like Avaris catches Princess Nabithia, and more akin to a man reaching
up to the night sky and plucking from it the most refulgent star from its velvety expanse, spinning
the sidereal splendour of Princess Nabithia's descent into a controller, smooth rotation that slows
even as he gathers Princess Nabithia closer to him. When they come to a halt, it is with one of his
hand grasping Princess Nabithia's waist, and the tips of another's claws resting whisper-light upon
Princess Nabithia's upraised thigh, the touch respectful and chaste. Maintaining the leaning
posture, the paladin lifts his free, upper right hand, and snaps his fingers. The moment the sharp
crack resounds throughout the ballroom, the lights dim, and the nature of the music shifts into
something more unrestrained and hungry, a passionate freneticism crackling through the air as he
stares into Princess Nabithia's eyes. In a low, deep vibration of sound that shivers against
Princess Nabithia's form via the contact of their carapaces, he murmurs, "Well done. Now. Show me
some passion, if you can."

Your words are met with a harsh laugh paired with a smirk as Princess Nabithia meets the dance head
-on, commenting, "Between the two of us, Avaris, I think you are the one who lacks passion more. Do
your best to keep up." The kephera places her hands firmly on your chest, pushing you forward as she
falls completely into the passionate zeal of the dance, though it is not romance that drives her but
an intense drive of competition that shines fiercely in her compound eyes. While before she had been
content to let you lead, she now pushes against your momentum with a playful banter, drawing close
to you only to dart away as the two press near. More of a chase and pursuit than a dance, you and
Nabithia spin together across the ballroom with a frenetic energy that seems only to intensify with
the rising of the orchestra's strings.

A short, stabbing bark of laughter meets this proclamation, the sound torn from
Avaris's throat like the sudden rasp of a bow across a cello's taut strings. "Passion? Oh, Nabithia.
I have passion to eclipse the stars themselves." There is an unspoken caveat to the statement, that
lingers like an errant spark from some great conflagration, threatening to set him aflame as he
prowls after Princess Nabithia, his posture shifting subtly towards the predatory. The chase is one
pursued in earnest, it seems, as each fluttering escape is met with a dramatically grasping hand,
the cruel claws snapping loudly shut upon empty air, a hair's breadth from Princess Nabithia's form
every time. His gait grows rolling, almost sinuous as he stalks Princess Nabithia, moving as if
possessed by the sharp, sudden spikes of the strings. At last, he takes hold of Princess Nabithia,
his massive hand closing about his wrist, another clutching at Princess Nabithia's waist as he yanks
the smaller kephera close, visored face draw down, down, further still until it seems he will brush
it against Princess Nabithia's - Only to abruptly push Princess Nabithia away, wrenching himself
around with an arm flung out behind him, as if casting Princess Nabithia away.

Letting out an abrupt laugh of her own, Princess Nabithia calls out, "So this is what you secretly
think upon, all your days in your meditative gardens?" She darts in and out of your grip with a
deceptive ease as she continues to taunt, "I think you have a tendency to pick partners who evade
you at every turn. Perhaps you prefer it that way, though?" As at last she finds herself in your
arms, waist pulled close, she grins as if amused at her predicament rather than annoyed, awaiting to
see what you does with the end of your chase with the patience of a cat who has allowed her mouse to
believe himself safe from harm. The closer that your face draws to Nabithia's, the more wickedly the
gleam in the kephera's eyes shines, as if daring you to push your luck to the brink. When he does
not, she lets out another peal of laughter, this one equal parts relief and amusement as she spins
away in a flutter of blue silk.

Turning back towards Princess Nabithia with the languid intent of a large predator
that has recently fed, and is prowling after a lone gazelle for sport, Avaris approaches the elusive
Princess in a winding, elliptical pattern, drawing closer in an unhurried, lazy series of loose
steps. "The heart wants what the heart wants. Mine, alas, is a very stupid thing." The reply is
flippant, his playful mien undisturbed as he approaches his prey, flicking a hand behind him to
signal the orchestra, which shifts slowly to a more sedate, civil piece. Extending a hand, once
more, in polite invitation, he says, "One last dance, and then I shall free you from this terrible
obligation."

Breathless after the rapid beats of the previous few dances, Princess Nabithia for the first time
appears to falter in her otherwise perfect footing, though her exhaustion is one of someone who has
thrown themselves completely into a joyous pursuit. She takes your hand gently, gratitude in her
gaze as she joins you once more in the familiar steps of the waltz. This time, there is a peaceful
languor to the movements, as if the kephera is retreating to the respite of your arms as one might
retire to a much beloved sanctuary, feeling secure enough to rest awhile. The metallic clack of her
heels against the ballroom floor likewise slows in its pace, hushing to barely be heard at all above
the swelling melody. "Terrible?" she echoes, a single antennae wearily rising upwards. "Was I that
poor a partner?" Again her words hum with jest, but there is a demand in them too -- to be told the
truth, unequivocally, whether it be to her liking or no.

Despite the skill with which he conducted himself in the more frenetic segments, it
is this calm, almost tranquil dance that Avaris seems most natural in performing. His motions,
despite the exertion of but moments prior, are steady and measured as ever, the gentle strength with
which he supports Princess Nabithia a quiet constant as he steps with her in a sedate rhythm.
Looking down at Princess Nabithia with great fondness, his tone is a match for his touch, suffused
with a sincerity and warmth that cannot be fabricated, as he says, "No, Nabithia. You are the very
finest partner that I have ever had the pleasure of dancing with. Thank you."

Giving herself over to your lead with utmost relief as her steps become more rote, sliding into
alignment to follow you around the ballroom, Princess Nabithia looks up at you and says, "Thank you,
Avaris. I cannot remember the last time I enjoyed myself this much." Her voice hums with complete
sincerity, the usual bite and snark of her tone absent as she, herself, vibrates with fondness. "You
are an excellent partner. It seems my doubts were ill founded." The rose pink of her porcelain
carapace seems flushed with the movement and energy spent, her antennae likewise in a faint state of
disarray from all the spinning done previously. Even so, there is a beauty to the way she holds
herself in this quiet dance, like a star that shines all the brighter after emerging from the clouds
of a darkening storm.

The pointed tip of Avaris's chin descends to brush the lightly swaying tufts of his
voluminous mane, the pristine white shimmering with each small motion. The burnished, splendid gleam
of his gilded plating is undiminished, as is the calm reservoir of strength that drives him. "You
are welcome, Nabithia. Thank you for indulging me by joining me in this bit of fun." Slowing as the
orchestra winds down to a soft, professional finish, he holds Princess Nabithia's hand as he asks,
sincere concern for the answer clear in his voice, "How are you feeling?"

"Hmmm," Princess Nabithia buzzes in answer, before letting out a chittering laugh. "Spent, I think.
I am not a demigod like yourself, Avaris, nor as formidable a fortress as yourself. So much spinning
leaves one dizzy, no?" There is no displeasure in the statement, however; rather, the brightness of
the reply reveals a genuine, effervescent thrumming beneath her words. She lifts a hand to adjust
her antennae, politely corralling them into place as they resume their crown-like placement, and she
hums thoughtfully. "And yourself? I sense you could continue all night, if you had a partner of such
Fortitude. I suspect few mortals are capable of matching it!"

Releasing Princess Nabithia's hand from where he clasps it, Avaris steps back to
his polite, respectful distance, three of his four hands slipping beneath the cloak of his wings.
Waving away the response in its entirety, says, "I am not foolish enough to think you are wilting
flower, so readily laid low by a bit of dancing." The tips of his antennae curve minutely as he
emphasises, "How are you ~feeling~?"

Waving her hand with a "Pssh," Princess Nabithia considers the question, her compound eyes aglitter
with amusement, before she replies, "Immensely entertained. And a tad surprised, if we are to be
honest." She gestures at the immense kephera vaguely, explaining, "I had expected I would need to
lead you, in truth. What a delight to discover otherwise." She crosses her arms, the bracelet
shifting with the movement against the starry stole she wears, as she asks, "And you? How are you
feeling, suave dancer that you are?"

A flicker of something very akin to relief passes across the kephera's eyes as
Avaris nods, lowering his last remaining hand to join its brethren, clasped firmly in interlocking
plates of hardened carapace at the base of his spine. "I am gladdened to hear such." A slight rise
and fall of his great shoulders precedes an even, "I am as I ever am, Nabithia. Would you like me to
walk you home?"

"Pretend I am a stranger, then, and humour me," Princess Nabithia says, stubbornly refusing to leave
until the answer is given. "Are you well, friend?"

Faint traces of light glimmer in Avaris's eyes, the sole visual manifestation of
the slight smile that touches his words. "You wish me to pretend you are a stranger, that calls me
friend?" A soft, largely mirthless laugh followers, the wings upon his back rustling quietly as they
resettle. "I am hale, Nabithia. You need not worry for me."

"Hmmmmmm," Princess Nabithia lets out with a dubious buzz, considering you and looking at the
ballroom as if recalling all that has transpired in its crystal halls. Her antennae squirm faintly
with indecision as she lets a question form, only to swallow it back rather than speaking it aloud,
glancing at the crimson lotus that is displayed prominently upon you in silence. "I suppose if you
wish me not to be concerned, then I will not be. Though you make it a difficult task at times,
Avaris." She takes your arm in hers, linking them, proclaiming, "Then I shall follow you back to the
Temple, and endeavor to avoid embarrassing you in regards to your dancing prowess."

Princess Nabithia begins to follow you.

If Avaris notes the attention paid to the crimson lotus that blossoms over his
heart, and it is a certainty that he does, given the countless eyes he possesses, then he elects to
give no sign of such. Instead, he pats Princess Nabithia's arms in a consoling manner, replying
blithely, "Fortitude, Nabithia."

((Home!))

Princess Nabithia squeezes your arm gently before releasing it, stepping back to her usual place in
the workshop.

Avaris inclines his head to Princess Nabithia in his typically courteous fashion,
bidding a warm, "Thank you for your company, my friend. We shall speak again soon, I hope. Until
then."

You move about quickly and lose Princess Nabithia.
12300h, 6300m, 6800e, 10p Be-
You have recovered balance on all limbs.

(Market): Lawrence says, "2,422 goop for 45 credits. Discounted just for you."

With a vibrant hum of gratitude, Princess Nabithia says, "I am certain we shall. Be well, Avaris. Do
not tire yourself too much, hm?"

Voice resonating with choral harmonics, you say, "I shall endeavour not to, at least."