A Night Out for Two ~ by SaralynArati

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And the next night, and the next. Velen's feet are bruised, and Catleya's oozing blood, but they recite a few healing charms and move on with the lessons. "It is time for a test," he informs her. "You'll be expected to make small talk at least occasionally. Do you think you can do it?" She frowns, but answers, "I'm doing it now, aren't I?" "Sort of... but... that's a lovely dress, my dear. You look as light as a fairy tonight." Catleya, with a momentous effort, keeps dancing and smiles.

9 years ago

SaralynArati

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"However," the cleric critiques her, "I think you need a lot more work on the more modern, partnered dances. You seem... shy of touching me. You'll wear long gloves at the ball, of course, so don't let that become a problem." Catleya closes her eyes and lets this sink in. "I trust you, Velen; I've already said so. I won't allow my... habitual reticence to compromise my dancing progress. Now, back to the beginning of the song again?" They work hard all night, far past dawn before quitting.

9 years ago

SaralynArati

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"Consider slowing down, Cat...leya. You'll get blisters on your feet and bleed on your shoes. Not to mention that mine are sore from being stepped on," Velen suggests lightly. "All my shoes are extremely stain resistant," she answers. "And I only came close to putting your eye out once with my nails. Are you sufficiently rested?" "I think you have a good grounding in many of the steps in the traditional dances, refreshed from your childhood memories. You're not good, yet, but you'll do."

9 years ago

SaralynArati

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Velen approves... whole-heartedly... of the new dress, saying prudently that its elevated hem should keep her from tripping. For hours they practice, initially with Velen demonstrating, then with Catleya following, then with the two of them actually attempting to move gracefully together. The young cleric is nearly ready to drop from exhaustion when Catleya calls a halt; he is not used to so much repetitive exertion. But the young assassin seems to fuel herself on gritty determination alone.

9 years ago