Taps -- Logs

Inari watches the woman go and then turns back to Chanticleer, voice still slightly hushed, "A noblewoman. One of the Unseelie." She drops her voice on the last word, as proper young ladies often do when daring to utter a verboten word, "She's one of the queen's interrogators." The ballerina shakes her head, "I've only seen her once or twice. I could be mistaken." Her tone says she thinks she's anything but.

Chanticleer suppresses a shiver, "Interrogator." The Seelie court used the same euphemism -- or maybe Inari is using it instead of Miriam's proper title. "That sounds... uncomfortable," he says quietly. He looks around; he wants to find a way to discreetly tell Sulochana what he's learned before Miriam gets there; is it possible, or is Miriam making a beeline for Sulochana and Eacharn?

The woman in the green dress doesn't approach 'Chana and Eacharn directly. Instead she moves in an oblique spiral, closing in on them but only after observing them from every angle. The crowd doesn't part like the Red Sea, but people do move unconsciously out of her way. When she does reach them, she waits for a lull in any conversation before stepping forward. Chanticleer mutters a soft curse, seeing Miriam already maneuvering for a position. He will wait for an opportunity, though he's certain Sulochana won't let Eacharn come to any sort of harm. He looks to Inari, taking her hand gently if she looks unnerved. "Thank you for telling me that," he says quietly.

Inari curls her hand into Chanticleer's and steps closer to him, not quite pressing against him, "Uncomfortable is probably the most gentle way of putting it. But she's also known for her more subtle methods. She's not like Kirin. People mostly survive Miriam."

Chanticleer gives a slight start, looking to Inari. Kirin is the boogeyman of the Court -- the entity that courtiers tell other courtiers will come and get them if they're really naughty. He's supposed to be a unicorn sidhe; an extremely rare breed. Not rare enough, Chanti thinks, suppressing a shudder. Fortunately Kirin didn't get an invitation to this party. The rooster sidhe nods a little, and puts on a smile for Inari. "Well. That's something of a relief, then."

The Lady Xopuchmata is relaxedly working the room, making sure her handsome Black Stallion is shown off to fullest effect as she meets old friends, is introduced to new attendees to the ball, and generally mingles pleasantly as they wait for dancing to start. The tall man clopping quietly next to her does indeed look quite fine, pacing obediently off His Lady's near flank as she strolls, and kneeling at her side should she stand and chat for a while with other party-goers. When she flicks her crop in light command while introducing him to others, the Stallion tosses his head and bends a knee in a graceful bow. Afterward he always neatly -- almost reverently -- lips up the treat she feeds him from her delicate, scarlet-gloved fingers. When she spots her godsmother, Xopuchmata delightedly heads that way, showing off her beautifully caparisoned companion with pride, "Doesn't he look fine, Lady Dragonfly? Thank you for the wonderful suggestion, my dear."

Sna'thaid is relaxed. It's an unusual state for her, but these balls remind her somewhat of her girlhood and she's smiling when her godsdaughter and the former king arrive. She's holding a glass of purple-red wine as she smiles, "He does cut a dashing figure... and tongues are wagging aplenty."

Xopuchmata laughs delightedly in a musical ripple, "Wonderful!" She strokes the shaggy mane, her small, silk-clad fingers trailing down the Stallion's shoulder and over his broad chest as she croons affectionately, "Aren't you the lovely one, my pretty pony?" and grins at her godsmother, "Anything of particular interest to share? Did, ahh... our sidhe companion's chosen inamorata arrive yet? He was quite hungrily eyeing the doors earlier!"

Miriam adds smoothly in addition to Sna'tha's comment, "And hearts are racing. There's more than one here that would love to be in his place." She inclines her head to Sna'thaid, "Lady. It has been years."

The dragonfly sidhe looks almost startled. Almost. The tall woman is not masked and so Sna'thaid recognizes her, "Indeed. Decades."

The Lady Xopuchmata's face is hidden behind her mask, so the raised eyebrow is unseen -- her godsmother reacted to this woman's presence?! The smaller woman simply laughs ripplingly again though, her voice light, "In his place? You intrigue me, Lady. Who might that be, who wishes to replace my pretty pony in my affections?" Even as she speaks, though, Xopuchmata is surreptitiously watching her godsmother for any non-verbal signals. After this much time together, they share a sneaky sign-language with all the caravan's guardians. The Stallion in question shifts restlessly next to her.

Chanticleer keeps an eye open for a chance to tell Sulochana about Miriam if she does not hear of it from Sna'tha -- he thinks that Sna'tha might know of Miriam herself. He has a sudden insight, then flashes a smile to Inari. "Would you like to see the Stallion up close?"

Inari's eyes glitter and she nods, unable to resist the idea of a little intrigue mixed with spending time with Chanticleer, "I would indeed." She peeks up at him from beneath sooty lashes, "Perhaps I could learn where he got his costume. The ballet is doing Cinderella soon... we'll need some horses for the pumpkin carriage." Her grin makes her words ring a little false.

Sna'thaid murmurs, "Miriam. It's quite the surprise to see you out and about." She is gently tapping her fingertips against her glass: it should be safe. They're in public, but be cautious. Nearby, Chanticleer relaxes a little as he walks with Inari towards the Lady and her Stallion; he's spotted Sna'tha's hand signals, telling Sulochana -- Xopuchmata -- that it should be safe since they're in public. He smiles warmly to Inari, seeing her eagerness. He hopes he can keep her somewhat removed from whatever it is Miriam has planned; even if it's just a demonstration, he's not sure he wants an 'interrogator' involved in what should be recreation!

Miriam smiles at Xopuchmata. It's an inviting smile, in a dangerous way -- the sort of smile that causes the heart to race even if one isn't sure if it's from fear or eagerness. "Not so much the affection as simply the position. I am to do a demonstration of suspension and sensation later. I wonder if I might borrow your stallion."

Xopuchmata sighs affectedly, "Alas! So it is not me they are after, but my lovely Stallion? I am not sure whether I should be pleased at my skill in his presentation, or disappointed at causing myself to fade into the background!" She chuckles relaxedly, nodding once to Sna'thaid as she considers Miriam's request. Eacharn shifts closer to his Lady; he's familiar with Miriam and he's flushed all over at her request. He can't actually speak, though, the mask having an in-built gag/bit.

Miriam smiles and shakes her head, "No, no. I mean that many would love to be under such a hand as yours, but they mightn't require affection."

The Lady Xopuchmata strokes a gently reassuring hand down her Stallion's flank, purring softly to him for a moment before she makes up her mind. She smiles again as she turns her gaze back to Miriam, "Indeed? Interesting. For me, however, that necessary affection is an integral part of such a relationship. I feel strongly about my... pets, or I do not have them at all." Her smile is gentle as she adds, "I fear that is why I must politely decline to share my pretty pony, Lady Miriam: he is too dear to me, and I am possessive." Her hand is still resting against Eacharn's hip and thigh, gauging his reaction. Will he remain slightly tensed in disappointment, or relax in relief? She adds smoothly, spotting Chanticleer approaching from behind Miriam, "Ah, I think I know the gentleman approaching! Dragonfly, dear, don't you know him too, I think?" Xopuchmata does not elaborate on her inner thought: that she is possessive of people only when she's feeling protective. She's not sure precisely why, but this Miriam woman makes her want to step between the strange sidhe and Eacharn, while he is so vulnerably in her hands.

Sna'thaid glances in that direction and says, "Indeed; and where are my manners? Miriam, this is the Lady Xopuchmata, and the young swain coming our way is La Fleche Rouge."

Miriam looks in Chanticleer's direction, giving Sna'tha time to signal to 'Chana that she can relax. Eacharn also relaxes subtly, but remains flushed. The tall sidhe woman looks disappointed as she turns back, "A shame. Still, I hope you'll both attend. I shall be starting when the clock strikes one."

Xopuchmata nods graciously, "We look forward to it," but says nothing more on the matter unless Miriam presses her.

Chanticleer almost falters in his step, approaching. He hadn't really wanted to be put on the spot with an Unseelie interrogator, especially with Inari having been uncomfortable around her -- but he does not show it. Besides, Sulochana probably needs to divert some attention from Eacharn at the moment. The tall sidhe man inclines his head, "So very good to see you again, Lady, as well as your Stallion -- and you as well, Lady Dragonfly." It is a part of the pleasant conceit of the masquerade to not truly "recognize" anyone wearing a mask... even if they are your cousin, your sister, or your employer. "Lady, we had come hoping to admire your grand stallion, whom you've trained so well." He likewise inclines his head to Miriam at the introduction. "Pleased, m'lady."

Miriam looks disappointed, but smiles at Chanticleer and Inari, "Pleased to make your acquaintance."

Xopuchmata smiles to Chanticleer, "La Fleche Rouge! Such sartorial splendor; I am impressed, my dear! And who is this lovely lady with you?" She is gently stroking her Stallion, although it is more reassuring than arousing. She does not wish him ever to fear for his safety while under her command, after all. Eacharn leans subtly toward 'Chana, but his face is staying turned carefully toward Miriam, as if he doesn't really want to let her get out of his sight.

Chanticleer bows, and with a flourish indicates Inari. "Lady of the Fiery Kiss, it is my deepest pleasure to introduce to you the charming and poetic Lady Pirouette, who speaks in the enticing language of motion." Inari smiles and curtseys. It's not as flirtatious a curtsey as the one she gave Chanti earlier, but there's a hint of tease about Inari most of the time. It's part of her nature.

Sna'tha smiles and says, "And this is..." She glances at Miriam, one brow raised as if asking what to say.

Miriam offers her hand to Chanti, palm down, "Miriam. One cannot be disguised if one is going to perform."

Xopuchmata offers her hand to Inari in a friendly fashion, murmuring delightedly, "But how marvelous! It is a great pleasure to meet you, my dear." She smiles politely at Miriam's comment, "Do you feel so? How intriguing! Now I feel a desire growing in me to see a performance with disguised participants. I wonder if it would be feasible?" Then she adds softly to Inari, "Your handsome young man struts so impressively when he speaks of you!" Inari doesn't quite preen, but she does hold herself happily.

Miriam says, "Oh, I have worked disguised before, but Madame de Cygne wanted me to be recognizable tonight. I think she wanted to shock her guests with my presence. Rumor has it that she was going to try to find a unicorn sidhe to pretend to be Kirin."

Inari's eyes widen and both she and Eacharn stiffen at the idea. Chanticleer does not speak his thought: that such a thing would indeed shock de Cygne's guests, if not make them run for the hills. Xopuchmata nods silently at Miriam's commentary, not showing her thoughts at all; since she does not know who any of those people are, it means little to her. She turns her attention to Inari, giving the formerly-delighted young fox-sidhe a wink and a grin as she murmurs quietly, "I saw you admiring my pretty Stallion, my dear. Did our handsome cockerel bring you over so you could meet him?"

'Chana's question distracts Inari and the fox girl giggles, "Perhaps. I did want to meet him. I also wanted to see his tack up close."

Miriam seems almost lazy, unconcerned as she says, "I daresay either she couldn't find a unicorn or the ones she did find had better sense. Kirin's sense of humor tends toward the nonexistent." She flashes her brilliant, dangerous smile again and says, "If you'll excuse me, I must get ready." She takes her leave, moving with a slow assurance.

Xopuchmata doesn't react past a courteous nod, but as soon as Miriam is gone the Hetaera whispers exasperatedly to her godsmother, "Who was that? Why does she so alarm everyone?" She's soothing Eacharn with her hands as she speaks, feeling subtly irritated with the woman. As someone who knows what it is to be feared, she does not admire those who seem to revel in causing the sensation. Chanticleer grins at Inari's eagerness, inwardly relaxing with each step Miriam takes away from the group.

Sna'thaid's voice is dry, "That was the Miriam, Lady of Chains, though she usually drops the title. She calls herself an interrogator, though inquisitor is probably closer to the truth. I suspect de Cygne hired her because when she's not dragging secrets out of enemies of the Unseelie Court she's known to use her skills for more prurient reasons."

Xopuchmata frowns at that, her voice low but firm, "She gets her hands on none of mine tonight then, if I have anything to say about it!" She croons softly to her pretty pony, making sure Eacharn is feeling well-cared-for and securely "owned" before she turns to Inari and smiles ruefully, "Your pardon, Lady; I am... somewhat protective of my pets, as you may have noticed. So! You wished to meet my handsome Black Stallion, yes?" She taps her crop lightly against Eacharn for a bow as she speaks. Eacharn makes his bow, sinking back into the security of sub-space as he's signaled. It's a very pretty bow and calculated to show off his musculature.

Inari smiles, showing canines which are pointier than normal, "A pleasure, pretty pony." In a soft voice she murmurs to Chanticleer, "His tail is quite lovely..." Her hips swish a little as she says so, setting her skirt to swaying. Chanticleer's smile widens as he watches Inari. It's not merely appreciative or admiring or with ardor; he's gauging her comfort level and interest.

Sna'thaid is still watching Miriam walk away, eyes narrowed -- the mention of Kirin has her a bit worried. Xopuchmata chuckles quietly, and strokes the crop lightly over Eacharn, encouraging him to turn around and bow again. "Oh, I quite agree -- such a full, healthy tail is easy to admire!" It's not entirely clear which of the men she is referring to.

Inari peeks up at Chanticleer from the corners of her eyes, laughter in her voice, "It's lovely when the plumage matches the skill." Eacharn has settled quietly to his knees, as he's been given permission to do if they've been standing still for a certain length of time. He leans against 'Chana's hip, looking strangely vulnerable for someone so large. Xopuchmata wraps an arm about the horsehead, almost cradling him close. Her small fingers gently stroke the underside of Eacharn's jaw as she giggles at Inari's comment. Both women surreptitiously admire Chanticleer's full, proudly bobbing tail for a moment together!

After a little more chit-chat, Inari hints that she'd like to dance, letting Chanticleer actually do the asking before they head out onto the dance floor together. The musicians are the best for several cities around; the same cannot be said for all the dancers. The drinks have been flowing freely and not everyone is as coordinated as they'd like -- but everyone is having a great deal of fun. Xopuchmata waves as the lovely couple depart, waiting a bit longer until she can murmur quietly to her godsmother, "Should I worry about... the interest in my pony, godsmama? I was thinking of a small display of some sort, but I don't want to draw unpleasant attention to him."

Sna'thaid considers, looking off into space thoughtfully, "I think she simply saw him as one of the more impressive and desirable looking people that are obviously submissive." Her expression is distracted, "I don't want to read too much into her presence. But do keep an eye on Eacharn. If she's taken a liking, she may try to lure him."

Xopuchmata nods slowly, thinking... then she gently taps Eacharn with the crop, "Up, sweetie." Her soft voice is grave as she murmurs, "I had intended to occasionally dance with others while you were ground-tied, or send you for drinks, pretty pony... but I'm wondering if it would be wisest to keep you close by my side. Have you any thoughts to share?" Eacharn can feel her small fingers resting lightly against his jaw, under the mask, where she can easily unhook the bit so he can speak or drink.

Eacharn nods subtly once, to let her know he would like to speak. A second later the bit is unfastened, and Xopuchmata is carefully lowering it from the mask's mouth. She strokes his bare shoulder with one hand in gentle reassurance. She's not pleased with Miriam effectively messing with the closeness she was enjoying with her lovely submissive, but she'll still do her best to keep him safe and happy. Eacharn's voice is low, "I don't think she'd try anything truly untoward here. I would enjoy watching you dance, My Lady."

Sna'tha adds, "I'll keep an eye on him for you if you wish. Besides, mingling might give us an idea what Miriam's been doing tonight."

Chanticleer dances with Inari, hoping to put the encounter with Miriam out of both her mind and his. Inari is a sublime dancer and it would be all too easy for her to take control of the dance. Instead, she puts herself in Chanticleer's hands, sighing happily as he leads her through the steps of the dance. She doesn't take her eyes off his face the whole time and her delicate bare feet flicker beneath her long skirt.

Chanticleer feels warm and comfortable as he leads Inari through the dances; he's seen her dance before, and he knows she's quite, quite capable of being a magnificent spectacle on her own. So her declining to lead is flattering to him, and he certainly tries to do it credit! While he will occasionally glance about to ensure Miriam is not drifting over to spoil their moment, he keeps his attention on Inari, "Pirouette," simply enjoying for the moment the motions with her. He manages to -- mostly -- behave. Anything else... well, there'll be time for that later if Inari is so inclined. Chanticleer does his very best, as well, to let her know how appreciative he is of her beauty and grace, leading the dance to let her enjoy and show herself off.

Nearby, Xopuchmata thinks carefully for a long moment... then she nods once, "All right. Pony, I have a command for you: you are allowed to go off with no one but me tonight. Should I hand you over temporarily to the Lady Dragonfly you will stay close to her until I return." She glances at Sna'thaid, checking to see if that's acceptable as she adds, "Hopefully that will help keep him from being lured off, yes?"

Eacharn relaxes perceptibly and says "Yes, My Lady." He normally trusts his own judgement, but he's let himself slip so much tonight into a trusting mindset, after so long having to be the face of the city, that he's not sure he would make the right decision. Xopuchmata smiles and pats her pretty pony, then gently refastens the bit and bridle.

Sna'tha nods, chuckling quietly, "That's a wise idea, dear... and I promise not to play with your toys." Still, her gaze is scanning the room almost warily. Xopuchmata grins at that -- she'll have to find out later if Eacharn was relieved or disappointed at Sna'tha's comment! For tonight, though... he's all hers.

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Last modified: 2010-Aug-28 20:29:49

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