[color=lightgray][center][h1][color=LightSteelBlue]Cassius[/color] & [color=B7AAE0]Charlotte[/color][/h1][/center]

[hr]


As Cassius meandered through the ballroom, his gaze swept over the myriad of masked faces. He was searching…seeking something, [i]anything[/i] to pique his interest. For all the amusement he had experienced so far this evening, he was beginning to grow restless. 

He watched as the guests mingled, their laughter and chatter creating a backdrop of joviality that seemed worlds apart from the boredom brewing within him. He was unsure why he felt so disinterested when normally he would be reveling in such an atmosphere. Perhaps the source of this restlessness stemmed from the fact that subconsciously he was looking for something…[i]someone[/i] in particular.  His eyes flitted from one masquerade guest to the next, his mind churning with subtle anticipation. 


[i]Where was she?[/i]


There, by the edge of the dance floor, he spotted her just as she was stepping back into the ballroom…Almost divergent amidst the bustling crowd. Charlotte’s demeanor was tense, her eyes clouded with an emotion he couldn't quite decipher just yet. Despite the delicate butterfly mask adorning her face, he could see the turmoil etched in the lines of her expression.

A frown tugged at the corners of his own lips as he observed her from afar. What could possibly trouble her in a place filled with such merriment? What could have happened in the moments that passed since she ventured off on her own to leave her in such a state. The question gnawed at him, urging him forward…compelling him to move towards her.

With each step he took his stride was purposeful, his gaze fixed on Charlotte as he watched the subtleties of her beginning to fall apart..

As he drew nearer, he noticed the tears glistening in the corners of her eyes and the tremble of her lips as she struggled to contain the storm raging within her. His heart clenched at the sight as a familiar feeling coursed through him. 

The emotion was akin to what had stirred within him when he witnessed Layla berate her at the beach. He couldn't help but continue to move towards her, his feet almost having a mind of their own as he was inexplicably drawn in her direction. His pace quickened as she grew closer and closer to losing herself to the panic. 

Once he finished closing the distance, there was zero hesitation. He reached out to gently grasp her trembling hand in his. He could feel the warmth of Charlotte’s skin beneath his touch, the faint flutter of her pulse against his fingertips. It only served to deepen his resolve, building the urge to be the anchor she needed at that moment. 

Taking but an instant to let her tear-filled gaze find his face, Cassius wore his most comforting and genuine smile that hid quite a bit of the concern in his eyes, but not all. Her frightened gaze betrayed her surprise. He was the last person she had expected to see at that moment.

However, before she could react…before the panic could consume her entirely, Cassius swept Charlotte into his arms in one fluid movement as he led her onto the dancefloor just as the music began to swell into a graceful waltz. He let his steps direct her with the skill of a practiced dancer, something that would certainly be unexpected of him. 

He held her close against him as he guided her body in the waltz, allowing her to focus solely on overcoming the panic.  Years of dance practice gave Charlotte enough muscle memory to keep up her footing even as she fell apart.

[color=LightSteelBlue]“You’re alright, Lottie, I have you….”[/color] Cassius stated calmly. 

Her eyes widened as they met his.

[color=LightSteelBlue]“Don’t let it win. Ignore it all for a moment and just breathe. Focus on the sound of my heartbeat until the panic leaves you. “[/color]

Desperate gasps escaped her lips, each inhalation sharp and ragged, her body trembling with the effort of trying to regain control, but she did just as he asked, unable to process another way. Resting her head wearily against his chest, Charlotte listened to the rhythmic cadence of his heartbeat, its rapid tempo mirroring her own as sobs occasionally wracked her body.

His heart seemed to beat against his ribs with a fervent urgency, as if it were trying to break free from its confines. The slow waltz and the noise of the crowd faded into a distant murmur, their presence reduced to mere background noise.  She could scarcely hear own breathing beginning to regulate. 

For just a moment, his heartbeat became her world.

[color=LightSteelBlue]“...We'll dance until you’re okay, no matter how long it takes.”[/color]

As time went on, she could hear his heart rate gradually slow beneath her ear, its gentle rhythm lulling her into a sense of calm as she shut her eyes. After a few more minutes of rest, slowly, she lifted her tear-streaked face from his chest, meeting his gaze with uncertainty. 

Charlotte couldn’t help but find irony in the situation, dancing with Calbert’s son after being warned only moments before to stay away from him. At the least, she could assume that he was not adhering to some vile order from his dear old father. He had approached her on his own accord. 

As Charlotte rested her head against his chest, Cassius found himself conscious of the undeniable thrill that came with holding her close. A sense of peace came over him as her heartbeat gradually synced with his own. Yet, beneath the surface there was a nagging sense of curiosity and concern. Though, he brushed the feelings from his mind for the moment and focused on the task at hand, making sure that she was alright and that no one was the wiser of how close she had come to a breakdown.

With each step of the waltz, Cassius held her with adept ease, every one of his movements fluid and deliberate. His gaze softened as he watched her gradually find solace in the rhythm of his heart and their dance. He knew more than most the power of distraction, of losing oneself in the moment to escape the turmoil of the heart and mind. So, he just danced with her for a time, guiding her through the steps until her own impressive muscle memory kicked in and she matched his strides.

As the minutes carried on, Charlotte's tremors began to subside, and her breathing steadied against his chest. Cassius could feel the tension slowly melting away from her body, replaced by a fragile calm. She was not cured of the panic entirely but he could tell that he was helping. He continued to hold her close, his embrace a silent promise of safety amidst the chaos of the ballroom and her mind alike. As the music played on and the world around them fell into insignificance, Cassius couldn't ignore the burning questions that lingered in the air so heavy. What had happened to drive Charlotte to the heights of anxiety like that? Who had done that to her? And why had seeing her in such a state bothered him so?

As these thoughts circled in his mind, Charlotte found her strength to speak. . [color=B7AAE0]“Thank you…”[/color] Her voice was a soft whisper, barely rising above the hum of the ballroom.

With a gentle yet firm touch, Cassius moved Charlotte to a halt as she thanked him. His hand rested softly on her waist as he looked into the tear-streaked eyes behind her mask. There was a vulnerability in her gaze, a silent plea for understanding. He watched as her eyes searched his for answers, but to what questions?

[color=LightSteelBlue]“Wow…”[/color]He said with clear sarcasm.
[color=LightSteelBlue]“It’s not every day that one's skill on the dancefloor is so flawless that it merits a [i]Thank You.[/i]”[/color] He laughed gently, his jest nothing more than a hopeful strategy to win a smile from his dance partner. 

[color=LightSteelBlue]“But…really, no need for thanks. I wasn’t about to let you break one of the tried and true rules of revelry…” [/color]Cassius let a pause hang in the air for dramatic effect before continuing. [color=LightSteelBlue]“Na maskarade nel'zya plakat'…No crying allowed at the masquerade.”[/color] He reached a hand out and lifted her mask ever so slightly, gently wiping away the small streaks of tears and smeared mascara with his thumb in a caressing motion. [color=LightSteelBlue]“Plus, how could a man like me resist the opportunity to play the hero when so often I am cast in other roles?” [/color]

Charlotte's eyes held a soft gleam as she met his gaze, a subtle smile forming on her lips as he attended to her. With a flutter, her lashes lowered. [color=B7AAE0]"Ah," [/color] she eventually remarked, a trace of amusement coloring her voice, [color=B7AAE0]“ So that’s why you’re suddenly a gentleman tonight. Adhering strictly to the rules? [i]...Nа maskarade nel'zya byt' vulgarnym[/i]?”[/color]

Cas’s smile remained as he acknowledged her playful question with a wink. He slowly began to lead her in the waltz once more, but soon that smile faltered a bit, falling into a look of concern as his next thought was made into words. [color=LightSteelBlue]"What happened, Lottie?"[/color] His voice was low and velvet, laced with a hint of worry. [color=LightSteelBlue]"I'm a rather good listener... when I want to be."[/color] He flashed her a roguish grin, hoping to continue to lighten the mood even as his own curiosity gnawed at him.

As her smile faded, Charlotte's thoughtful gaze drifted downward, mulling over his words. Briefly meeting his eyes once more, she couldn't help but notice the subtle grin on his face. She could not help but ponder why this man always seemed adorned with an expression of amusement as if it were a part of his daily ensemble.

[color=B7AAE0]“...I had this gnawing suspicion that an individual, in particular, harbored ill intentions toward those dear to me…” [/color]" Her hold on him unwittingly tightened. [color=B7AAE0]“ Not only did I discover that I was correct, but I also learned the extent of their schemes... and it's far more sinister than I ever imagined.”[/color] Her expression began to falter as she spoke, the weight of her words visibly pressing down on her.  [color=B7AAE0]“...and now, I can't help but feel that I have not done enough.”[/color]

Cas’s hand lifted once more as he watched her expression break. With a gentle touch, he lifted her chin slowly so that her fallen gaze met his once again. This time it was he that searched her eyes for answers as the information processed in his mind. He wondered who exactly it was that threatened her, that made her so afraid. For someone to do so in his father’s home was an insult to the Damien name…then a ping of curiosity struck him. 

[color=LightSteelBlue][i]No…[/i][/color] he wondered to himself as he noted where she had re-entered the ballroom from and what exactly that exit led to. 

Calbert’s study. 

[color=LightSteelBlue][i]Surely not….[/i][/color] He remembered his father’s warning about the Vikena family. He let his mind wander briefly to how the Count treated Charlotte at the beach, and the contempt he clearly held for her. His mind turned to the potential that she could be referring to his father. But he wouldn’t pry, and he wouldn’t push. If that was the case he understood that the truth would come out eventually, so instead he simply looked deep into her eyes and returned his focus to comforting her. 

[color=LightSteelBlue]“Well…I’d say that’s definitely a cause for a bit of concern.”[/color] He exclaimed as he continued to process her words. [color=LightSteelBlue]“And I’m sorry, my lady. I’m sorry that someone is being so cruel to you.”[/color] His features softened and his smile faded as he continued. [color=LightSteelBlue]“I know what it means to have enemies, and I know just the feeling you speak of. The burden of feeling like you haven’t done enough.”[/color] Cas’s eyes fell to the floor momentarily as he let the weight of such a feeling wash over him. [color=LightSteelBlue]“I’m all too familiar with that one myself.”[/color] 

Taking a deep breath, he let his thumb slip from under her chin and gently caressed her cheek. Her face reddened under his touch as their met again. Those gray-blue eyes of his may as well have been windows into a raging storm at sea as he leaned in closer, his voice lowering to a calm whisper. [color=LightSteelBlue]“Look…I don’t know you, at least not really, but I have an eye for people, Lottie, and I can tell you’re not the kind of girl who does anything but her best. I’m sure it’s enough, and even when it can’t be…we pick up the pieces and try again.”[/color]  

There was a silence before she smiled faintly.  [color=B7AAE0] “As long as life's rhythm flows through our veins, let us grasp onto the light of hope that persists, guiding us through the darkest of nights.”[/color] She quoted. 

[color=LightSteelBlue]“Echoes of Eternity, right?”[/color] Cassius nodded in recognition of the quote, his expression displaying how impressed he was by her literary knowledge. 

The dance continued, their bodies moving together in step as he spoke.  [color=LightSteelBlue]“Alistair Veremond’s work in philosophy is one of those things that will always be underrated…no matter how popular it is. Honestly, it’s instrumental reading for anyone with a curious mind.”[/color] Cas briefly recalled learning of the man’s writing for the first time. [color=LightSteelBlue]“I had this commanding officer, Brant was his name…he was a monster in the field, but the man was a philosopher at heart. He made sure Veremond was required reading for the entire unit. Lot’s of complaints from some of the other Wolves, but personally I couldn’t get enough.”[/color] 

Charlotte’s brows initially lifted at his words. Though she hadn’t expected him to recognize the quote, her surprise was mild.  [color=B7AAE0] “He is certainly a wonderful philosopher…I’ve read Echoes of Eternity perhaps three times now…Veremond viewed the world in a beautiful way I wish I could see with my own eyes .”[/color] She smiled to herself as she spoke. Before she could delve deeper into her thoughts, his final statement registered in her mind and confusion crossed her expression.  [color=B7AAE0]  “Pardon me… [i]Wolves[/i]?”[/color]

[color=LightSteelBlue]“The Iron Wolves.”[/color] Cassius clarified. [color=LightSteelBlue]“It’s a renowned company of sellswords from the Varian kingdom.”[/color] His smile grew more confident. [color=LightSteelBlue]“Many would go as far as to say they’re [i]the[/i] premiere mercenary group in all of Eromora…and humbly, I was one of their best.”[/color]    

Charlotte’s eyes lit as a thrill surged through her and she let go of Cassius mid- dance. Unable to contain her enthusiasm, she let out a delighted gasp. With a little hop of excitement, she clasped her hands together.  [color=B7AAE0] “I can’t imagine the adventures you’ve been on! And how brave you must be…”[/color] Her voice trailed off as her thoughts raced ahead like a runaway train, trying to envision all his tales of daring escapades.

[color=B7AAE0] “You must have helped so many people…  I think I would do almost anything to have the kind of strength where I could make a difference for others.”[/color] There was a sparkle in her eyes as she smiled.   [color=B7AAE0] “What greater honor is there than the life of a hero.” [/color]

As Charlotte lit up with excitement, Cassius matched her energy with wide eyes and an elated grin…but after a moment, something about her words shifted his expression to something slightly more somber. As his arms settled down at his side upon her releasing him, his mind focused on that word, [i]hero[/i]. A specific memory burned at the edges of his mind, but he brushed it away before it could fully manifest. He was no hero, but rather whatever he was paid to be. Though his eyes trailed away from hers and to the ground for a brief moment, he met her gaze once more with a feigned smile. [color=LightSteelBlue]”The things I’ve seen over the last decade…adventure is barely enough to describe it. There is more beauty in this world than anyone will ever see with their own eyes. I’m honored to have experienced so much of it.” [/color]

Charlotte observed the subtle shift in Cassius's expression, sensing a hint of melancholy beneath his practiced smile. After some hesitation, she reached out to gently take his hand.

As their fingers intertwined, Charlotte met his eyes with a warm smile. [color=B7AAE0]"From what I've studied in books, the world sounds breathtakingly beautiful,"[/color] she remarked softly. [color=B7AAE0]"Yet, I've only experienced a fraction of it firsthand. I would love nothing more than to hear about your adventures and the places you've explored someday."[/color]

Cassius felt a strange cocktail of emotions as Charlotte's hand found his, her warmth seeping into his skin, thawing the tendrils of past memories that threatened to creep back in. Her genuine curiosity and innocent enthusiasm were like a balm to his weary soul. As he looked into her eyes, so full of hope and wonder…There was a noticeable departure from the melancholy they often carried, and especially the panic that was present only moments ago. He was glad his little distraction was working. 

Pondering her words, Cassius found himself torn by the truth of his experiences. The world she imagined, the one painted in the pages of her books, was often a far cry from the reality he had known. Though that did not deter him from seeking the beauty of the world around every corner, in fact it was likely the reason he sought it with such determination. As for now, it was easy to find beauty in this shared moment. His eyes briefly turned to the sight of her hand in his, and with a silent chuckle and a kind smile he responded. 

[color=LightSteelBlue]"I’m nothing if not an open book…"[/color] he said softly. [color=LightSteelBlue]"And I’m sure you can tell by now that I’m never above a humble brag.”[/color] Cassius used their interlocked hands to gently pull her in closer as he spoke and led her back into the dance once more, allowing the music to drown out the whispers of his past, if only for a little while longer. His hand rested low on Charlotte’s waist as he studied her eyes with appreciation. [color=LightSteelBlue]”But I’m sure you have your share of stories as well…Kings, Queens, and all the luxury that comes with a life of nobility. Surely you’ve known all kinds of beauty, albeit a different kind.”[/color]

Charlotte’s cheeks flushed, though she didn’t give any indication as to why. [color=B7AAE0] “I-I…”[/color] She stammered, her thoughts momentarily scattering as she became acutely aware of where his hands were placed. Despite this brief distraction, she quickly regained her composure and flashed a [i]very[/i] broad smile. [color=B7AAE0] “ Yes… I have quite some lovely memories with wonderful people I’ve had the honor of meeting.” [/color]

Noticing the blush on her cheeks, Cassius made the connection and realized that his hand was lower on her waist than he had even registered. He would have moved it higher had she seemed uncomfortable with its placement, but instead he simply enjoyed each step of their continued waltz. [color=LightSteelBlue]I’m glad you have those wonderful memories. Do me a favor, Lottie…Hold onto them for dear life. This world has a way of trying to pull the good times into the mud with the bad. Don’t let it.”[/color] His tone was gentle, and his advice came from a heartfelt place. However, before he could continue or she could react, the music swelled to its crescendo and came to a stop. 

Cas’s eyes broke away from Charlotte as he looked around the room at the other dancers parting ways. He did not rush to move his body away from hers, and even once he finally moved back a few inches, he allowed her hand to remain in his. [color=LightSteelBlue]”Well…looks like [i]this[/i] dance is over. Guess the stories and memories will have to wait until our next one.[/color] He jested. Not even the intensity of his lupine mask could obfuscate the warmth in his eyes or the sweetness of his smile. He pulled her hand up and pressed his lips to it gently. [color=LightSteelBlue]“No more tears, my lady. For the night is young and full of possibilities. All you have to do is seize them.”[/color] 
Charlotte remained transfixed as he spoke, her feet rooted to the spot even as he leaned in to kiss her hand. As his lips brushed against her skin, her heart fluttered uncontrollably as her eyes met his, and his met hers. In that prolonged moment, the rest of the room dissolved into insignificance, the surroundings blurring into nothingness just as it had earlier, leaving only the two of them in a moment stuck in time.

Even as reality gradually seeped back into her awareness, the silence lingered. Her thoughts raced for a moment longer before finally finding the words to break it.

[color=B7AAE0] “...Thank you again, Lord Damien,”[/color] She expressed with genuine warmth in her tone, although her posture had subtly shifted to something more guarded. [color=B7AAE0]“I am grateful that tonight allowed for a more cordial exchange between us. Enjoy the remainder of your evening.” [/color]  With a polite nod, she turned sharply, her figure swiftly swallowed up by the bustling crowd as it filled the space between them.

Before he could find the words to reply to Charlotte, she was gone. As the crowd swirled around him, Cassius took a moment to collect his thoughts. He couldn't deny the beating of excitement that danced in his chest at the prospect of getting to know Charlotte a little better. There was something about her innocence and curiosity that drew him in, offering a refreshing contrast to the shadows that often clouded his past. Mostly, though, he was simply glad to have helped her avoid such a public display of panic. Perhaps it was further atonement for his actions the other night, though still in this moment he couldn’t understand why he cared. At the very least, this felt better than the way things had played out that night.

With a sigh, he shook off his reverie and glanced around the ballroom, once again taking in the elaborate masks and elegant costumes that adorned the guests. The music started to play once more, rhythm weaving its way through the air like a whisper in the background of his mind. Cassius found himself moving towards the refreshment table, as he had already done multiple times tonight, and poured himself another glass of wine as he leaned against the marble countertop. He observed the other guests with a far more detached interest as his thoughts inevitably drifted back to Charlotte, the dance they shared, and the night’s masquerade which he certainly would never forget. [/color]