[center][h3][color=gold]Alexander[/color]  and [color=D0B4EC]Charlotte[/color] 

Part 1[/h3][/center]
[color=lightgray]
[color=D0B4EC]Time:[/color] 11am Sola 28
[color=gold] Location: [/color] Art gallery
[color=D0B4EC] Mention:[/color] [@Tpartywithzombi] Violet [@ReusableSword] Roman
[hr]

As the clock struck eleven and the sun moved further into the center of the sky, Alexander’s shoes touched ground as he stepped out of the carriage that delivered him to the front of the Sorian Art Gallery in a [url=https://i.pinimg.com/736x/6b/05/e2/6b05e230fd2ed98d57a611c572beaf62.jpg]suit[/url] he found fitting for the occasion. One might say it was the reflection of his beating heart, steel and black.


[color=gold]“Ahhh. What a marvelous day for a date so lovely.”[/color] He commented to himself as his eyes took in the crowd. All of the bodies, all of their faces… they meant nothing to him in this moment. There was only one person on his mind. Just one. [color=gold][i]Where are you my dove? Where are you, Charlotte?[/i][/color]

As if on cue, Charlotte appeared at the entrance, stepping gracefully toward the front of the grand building. Her gaze rose to take in the towering stone structure before her—large, arched windows framed by ornate stonework and statues that lined the entrance, their intense gazes seemingly welcoming her into the gallery.

Her [url=https://i.imgur.com/8EIMur6.png]dress[/url]  was a blend of pastel blue and white with a sweetheart neckline. The blue floral lightweight fabric came down from the design at the waist, layered over the thicker white fabric beneath. Her hair was pulled back into a low ponytail, secured with a pale blue ribbon as per tradition. 

Then their eyes met. Alexander couldn't help but smile in Charlotte's direction. [Color=gold][I]Pure beauty… My king, you have no idea what you've gifted me.[/I][/color] With a look of delight, Alexander walked excitedly to Charlotte taking her hands in his own. 


[Color=gold]“You made it! I can't begin to express how wonderful it is to finally make your acquaintance, Lady Vikena. Thank you.”[/color] He nearly fawned over her.

Charlotte's cheeks flushed a soft pink at his words. She cleared her throat, lifting her chin slightly to meet his gaze, though her eyes still held a certain shyness.

[color=D0B4EC]"Th-The pleasure is mine, Mr Deacon,"[/color] she said, her voice gentle but touched with the sweetness of a woman who found herself a little off balance.. [color=D0B4EC]"It is an honor for you to speak of me in such a way.”[/color] With a delicate curtsy, she then added, [color=D0B4EC]“Thank you for the courteous invitation.”[/color]

[Color=gold]“I wouldn't have had it any other way. And just Alexander is fine Lady Vikena. What we're doing here today should feel comfortable.”[/color] He offered his hand.

[color=D0B4EC]“Ah, well in that case, Charlotte is just fine as well,”[/color] she replied with a gentle smile, her eyes briefly meeting his as she took his hand. [color=D0B4EC]“I must admit, I’m most eager to see Milo St. Claire’s work in person. His pieces have always captivated me with their depth.  His ability to capture the essence of a fleeting moment… it’s as if you can feel the weight of the emotions in each brushstroke.”[/color]

[Color=gold]“What a pleasure. You’re familiar with his work,”[/color] Alexander’s smile couldn't help but grow upon knowing Charlotte was a fan of the arts.

Walking alongside her, with a slightly firm grasp of her hand, Alexander couldn't help but steal glances at her.

Though she had kept her eyes ahead for the most part, Charlotte could feel the way Alexander’s eyes lingered on her. It was an unwelcome familiarity, however her expression didn’t falter.

[Color=gold]“I have to admit that I've only had the chance to see a few of his pieces. A busy man isn't afforded enough time to enjoy things like this very often. To see a moment of his passionade immortalized is… a beautiful thing. If only we as people could be the same.”[/color] He squeezed her hand ever so slightly and admired her countenance once more.. [Color=gold]“Beauty is good enough for now, I suppose.”[/color]

[Color=Violet][I]What a charmer you are Alexander! Why haven't you talked to little ol’ me with words so eloquent?[/I][/color]

Alexander winced but ignored the voice and the icy chills down his spine that accompanied it.

Charlotte’s cheeks flushed faintly as her lashes lowered, a smile gracing her lips. [color=D0B4EC]“You are far too generous with your compliments, Alexander,”[/color] she replied softly, her gaze briefly meeting his. [color=D0B4EC]“It honors me that a man with so many commitments would spare his time for me.”[/color]

Her eyes flickered forward as they ascended the steps. Through the grand doors was the grand entrance room with an enormous fountain at its heart, the sound of the water cascading mingling with the echo of chatter as the two had a moment to behold its glory. Pausing near the fountain, Charlotte turned her head slightly toward Alexander. [color=D0B4EC]“I have always believed that beauty is not merely what meets the eye but what stirs the heart when we behold it. Is it their form, their essence, or perhaps the story you imagine they carry?”[/color] Her lips curved into a smile as her eyes briefly met his. [color=D0B4EC]“When you admire something—or someone—what is it that you truly see, Alexander?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“Ahh…”[/color] Alexander exhaled, thinking while taking in the sight of the fountain. He took a brief moment to take it all in before nodding and facing Charlotte. [Color=gold]“If I'm being honest, it depends. People and art are very different, Charlotte. Many guard their hearts… even from themselves because they might not believe who they are or what they love are acceptable by others.”[/color] Alexander waved his hand toward the fountain. [Color=gold]“But when people create, they can't help but to put a part of what's within into their creations.”[/color] Alexander then chuckled. [Color=gold]“But even then, I am left to simply interpret what I see and hope that I've captured just a piece of their message. A message from the heart.”[/color]

[Color=gold]“As beautiful as this fountain is, to me, it depicts something unfortunate…”[/color] Alexander frowned as his voice lowered. [Color=gold]“Blessings, the water, coming down from the heavens… only to land on a single figure. A king? A saint maybe? But that person gets the whole of it and more than what they require before it trickles down a level below, then a level below that, and it continues until it reaches and settles at the bottom. This fountain shows me a life, a system, that we do not have the joy of experiencing. Perhaps it shows what may come.”[/color] Now there was an earnest smile on his face. [Color=gold]“Apologies for the long-windedness. I get passionate about these things amongst others. What about you? What do you see when you admire something… or someone, Charlotte?”[/color]

Charlotte fixated on the fountain, her expression thoughtful as she observed the cascading water. The soft ripples of light across the surface seemed to dance beneath the lighting. As her eyes lingered on the fountain, she said, [color=D0B4EC]“It does seem as though blessings fall unevenly, but perhaps that’s what makes them all the more precious. Even in imperfection, there’s something beautiful, isn’t there? I think that’s why I love art so much. It allows us to see beauty in what is often hidden—what is raw and true.”[/color] Alexander pondered her words with a bright outlook while taking a second look at the fountain from her perspective.

[Color=gold]“Very true.”[/color]

Her voice grew quieter, more introspective as she pondered his previous question, [color=D0B4EC]"...When I admire something—or someone—I look beyond what is presented. I seek to understand what is hidden, the layers beneath the surface. Beauty, after all, is not in what is readily offered, but in what must be discovered. And often, it is the imperfections, the scars, that tell the most compelling stories."[/color]

She allowed a faint smile, her eyes drifting back to the fountain. [color=D0B4EC]"Perhaps that is why art holds such power. It challenges us to see not just the surface but the depth—to question what has been hidden and why."[/color] With a quick glance at him, she brightened and asked, [color=D0B4EC]“So which room shall we explore first, Alexander?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“I was thinking we could try dipping our toes in the Portrait Gallery. After that, we’ll go a little deeper with the Reflections of Reverie.”[/color] Alexander exchanged another look before nodding in the direction of the Portrait Gallery. [Color=gold]“And since these portraits are easy on the imagination, we can likely discuss the second reason for inviting you on this outing.”[/color]

[Color=Violet][I]Alexanderrrrr…[/I][/color] 

[color=D0B4EC] “Sounds like a delightful plan…”[/color] Charlotte replied with a smile, her gaze drifting to the portrait gallery. [color=D0B4EC]“I suppose that would be regarding the charity event, yes?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“Yes, exactly that. I've only known you for minutes and I feel that we might share the same desire of giving to those without but… The auction I plan to hold is not the typical kind. So even if you decline, I would like to still enjoy our time together. Above anything, I would like to get to know someone who might become the Duchess of Veirmont someday.”[/color]

As she stepped into the portrait gallery, she continued their conversation whilst retaining her friendly tone, [color=D0B4EC]“It’s so wonderful that you are dedicating effort toward helping those less fortunate as well as making something unique for the guests at the event to enjoy. I would certainly be honored to attend.”[/color] Alexander raised his eyebrows at how quickly she accepted his offer without even hearing all of the details. Her footsteps led her to the portrait of Countess Diana Cristian shortly after entry. The dark-haired Varian woman was pictured in a sizable rectangular portrait on the wall, just to the left of the entryway. 

[Color=gold]“Ah, the Varian Countess in Krasivaya.”[/color] Alexander was already aware of her connection to Charlotte and even predicted she might find herself stopping to admire her dear aunt. Though, this was not a person he aimed to use against Charlotte anytime soon.

Charlotte smiled warmly as she marveled upon her aunt fondly.  [color=D0B4EC]“But you, Mr. Deacon, also are intriguing. I confess I would like to know more about the man who mysteriously invited me here.”[/color]

[Color=Violet][I]Alexanderrrrr…[/I][/color] Again the familiar called to him and again, he ignored her.

[Color=gold]“Intriguing. Mysterious,”[/color] he commented coolly before moving closer to the portrait. [Color=gold]“Wouldn’t knowing more about me spoil such allure?”[/color] He asked rhetorically as his fingertips trailed the intricately carved hardwood frame of the portrait. [Color=gold]“It’s likely part of why you accepted my invitation.”[/color] He chuckled lightly and shook his head. [Color=gold]“But, Charlotte. I would love for us to get to know each other. Perhaps even consider ourselves close friends down the line.”[/color]

[Color=Violet][I]ALEXANDER!!![/I][/color]

He averted his face from Charlotte as his smile dissipated. [Color=gold][I]What is it?[/I][/color]

[Color=Violet][I]So that's how I pull your attention from a pretty courtesan? Alexander, hear me, people of your interest are inside the gallery.[/I][/color]

Charlotte’s smile remained soft as her gaze shifted between Alexander and the portrait. [color=D0B4EC]“You may be right, Mr. Deacon—mystery has its allure, but it is depth that truly captivates... I most certainly would enjoy getting to know you more.”[/color] 

She then noticed Alexander’s subtle shift, his attention momentarily drawn away. Tilting her head curiously, she offered an inquiry, [color=D0B4EC]“Did another portrait capture your interest, Mr. Deacon?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“No…”[/color] Though his smile hadn't returned. He had to skillfully flow through this moment, and he damned well would! [Color=gold]“It took a moment but… you agreeing so quickly without me even having to explain the details of the charity event… it's…”[/color] Alexander formed a weak smile, his eyes gleaming with admiration. [Color=gold]“You are truly a rarity, Charlotte, truly. I adore your heart, especially in a city where few have them.”[/color] He took Charlotte's hands and slightly bowed his head as if he was unworthy to look directly at the face of the woman he described.

[Color=gold][I]Who are they, Eri?[/I][/color]

[Color=Violet][I]The bear. He's wearing shiny clothes and walking rather funny. He overcompensates with two guards by his side. The other is that red-eyed wench you fancy. Now, I'm glad you chose this one to take. I hate her face.[/I][/color] Despite the unneeded commentary, the information held some value. 

[Color=gold]“Apologies, Charlotte.”[/color] He released her hands and raised his head to look into her eyes that rivaled the beauty of the serene waters of the ocean. [Color=gold]“You’re much more than I expected.”[/color]

Charlotte had been very attentive as Alexander had spoken. She smiled once more, letting his kind words paint her cheeks red. With a giggle, she chimed, [color=D0B4EC]“Aww well thank you! The feeling is very mutual, Alexander.”[/color]  

Her steps carried her toward a nearby portrait, her eyes briefly lingering on the imposing image of Count Calbert Damien. A flicker of something unreadable crossed her face before she turned her head and glanced over her shoulder at Alexander. With a curious tilt of her head, she asked, [color=D0B4EC]“But do indulge me, if you will. Tell me more about this event you’ve planned—I am quite curious.”[/color]

[Color=gold]“Of course, of course, Charlotte. I think the best way to go about this is to be direct.”[/color] Alexander looked the portrait of Calbert up and down as if he was sizing the man up in person with an amused smile. Unlike the last portrait he did not bother caressing its frame. Instead, he stood beside it, facing Charlotte while imitating Calbert’s pose. [Color=gold]“Prince Callum, Lady Blackwood, and I are hosting a dating auction and I'm searching for ladies that would compliment the occasion. Going on a date with your highest bidder would be expected, no matter who that person might [I]but[/I] I assure you, the dates will be monitored if you were to request it. I wouldn't want some pervert to feel like he's owed something more than a date. Then again, I could use the event as a chance to buy myself a second outing with you.”[/color] He shot her a wink while maintaining Calbert's pose.

Charlotte’s gaze lingered on Alexander as he spoke, her lips curving into a polite smile, though her fingers subtly clasped the folds of her dress. Her sapphire eyes flicked momentarily to the portrait of Calbert Damien behind him as if gauging the connection between the two men, before returning to Alexander’s animated performance, which did manage to make her giggle.


After a thoughtful pause, she met his eyes, her smile softening into something sweeter. [color=D0B4EC]“Well,”[/color] she began, her voice gentle, [color=D0B4EC]“It sounds like a lovely occasion—for others to find a new friend, or perhaps even spark a romantic connection. Truly, I think the idea is wonderful!”[/color]

Her tone carried warmth and though her smile never faltered, her clasped hands tightened ever so slightly. [color=D0B4EC]“And monitored dates… That is a very considerate touch. You’ve clearly put great thought into this.”[/color] Alexander gave Charlotte a nod and relaxed his posture.

[Color=gold]“Of course. Safeguarding my volunteers is just as important as raising the funds toward Prince Callum’s cause. The Black Rose Trading Company has deep pockets and will see that this event is nothing less than grand.”[/color] He faced Calbert’s portrait again before continuing.

[Color=gold]“Off topic but… what do you think of Count Damien? Your honest thoughts.”[/color] His eyes met hers with a glance before he returned his sights into the portrait. He truly wondered how she would paint him.

Charlotte’s smile faltered ever so slightly as her gaze lingered on the portrait of Count Damien. She let out a soft breath, carefully considering her words.

[color=D0B4EC]“Count Damien…”[/color] she mused, her tone thoughtful. [color=D0B4EC]“He strikes me as a man who understands the power of appearances—how to use them, how to shape them. Such a mind must make for an exceptional ally… or a formidable adversary.”[/color]

Her eyes drifted back to Alexander, her expression earnest yet tinged with curiosity. [color=D0B4EC]“You must have crossed paths with him, Mr. Deacon. Men of ambition often seem to find each other, don’t they?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“More often than not, yes.”[/color]

Her lips curved into a soft smile as she added, [color=D0B4EC]“I admit, I’m not fond of the man behind the mask. But you—you seem to have a far keener understanding of people than most. What do you think of him?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“About him, or the mask?”[/color] Alexander asked with a chuckle. [Color=gold]“I jest but this Kingdom forces a man like him to be the way he is. A grinning loyal dog in the public eye, and a vicious wolf behind closed doors. You probably find it distasteful, and you wouldn't be wrong in the slightest but let me ask you, Charlotte. Would you wear a mask to protect those you love? Would you be vicious to those who might threaten their lives?”[/color]

[color=D0B4EC]“Protecting those I love… That’s more important to me than anything…”[/color] Charlotte murmured softly, her voice tinged with resolve as her gaze momentarily lowered.  [color=D0B4EC]“If wearing a mask is what it took, then perhaps I would at the least try, wouldn’t you?”[/color] Alexander withdrew his gaze and remained silent.

At the same time, Charlotte's eyes drifted to the portrait for a fleeting moment before returning to Alexander. With a hint of melancholy in her tone, she mused aloud wistfully, [color=D0B4EC]“But I wonder… does wearing such a mask change who you are beneath it? Can someone truly protect others without losing a piece of themselves along the way?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“That’s my future Duchess!”[/color] Alexander grinned while quietly mocking claps of applause. [Color=gold]“You’re thinking deeply…”[/color] Alexander shut his eyes and shook his head. [Color=gold]“But you and I both know you're capable of delving deeper. His problem… It's not about the mask or when he wears it. It's about [I]why[/I] he wears it. His single reason. That's what drives him. That's his love. His obsession. His strength. His weakness. His everything. It puts him two paces from insanity… So dawn a mask when you need it. Deceive your foes and win favor where you can. Just don't let this fool be the poster child of wearing one. You're better than him.”[/color] 

[color=D0B4EC]“And why do you wear your mask, Alexander?”[/color] she asked gently as if the question had simply floated into her mind unbidden. Her voice carried no accusation, only the naive curiosity of someone eager to understand.

[Color=gold]“The same reason as yourself, Charlotte.”[/color] Alexander motioned Charlotte to follow him down the hall. [Color=gold]“Survival… To protect what I love… To deceive my enemies.”[/color] He held his hand out to his side, fluttering his fingers as he silently called her to take it. [Color=gold]“I need you close for what I am about to ask you.”[/color]

Charlotte hesitated for a heartbeat, her gaze flickering between his outstretched hand and his expression. She stepped forward and closed the distance finally, gently taking his hand.

[color=D0B4EC]“You speak with such conviction, Alexander,”[/color] she observed and let the thought settle before glancing up at him with inquisitive eyes. [color=D0B4EC]“What is it you wish to ask of me?”[/color]

[Color=gold]“How much do you know about magic?”[/color] He asked softly. [Color=gold]“Don’t lie to me.”[/color] Alexander made eye contact with  Charlotte but surprisingly, he didn't use his ability to charm her. Charlotte would soon become his friend after all.

She cleared her throat and held her gaze steady. [color=D0B4EC]“I was only informed of its existence recently, so, very little…If I may ask, Alexander—why would you ask me about it?”[/color]

He stopped in place while looking into her eyes longingly. [Color=gold][I]She's perfect.[/I][/color]
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