The Christmas Ball (25/12 Evening)- Xmas 1677

[Sophia de la Cerda]

The Pretty Blondes Club (Diana and Sophia) in Search of the Duchess of Ormonde

 

Plans for their new trend was coming together nicely. Sophia hoped that Davina would be willing to join them. “Yes, fabric samples would be appreciated, but they will have to know what we are trying to achieve before suggesting what our gowns should be made of. We also have to consider the colors that flatter us most.”

 

Sophia was so fair of hair and skin that she usually stuck to pastels, but she'd had some gowns in slightly brighter hues made while she was in Madrid. Diana had light hair as well, but Davina could wear any color she chose. Most ladies wished they were blonde, but Sophia envied those ladies with dark hair. Maybe if her hair had been golden, she would have been happy with it, but her tresses held barely any color at all. “I cannot wait to get started either. If we can debut them by the end of the year, we may see a plethora of fire themed gowns in the spring.”

 

She had never thought that Esteban had agreed to the banquet because he was confident in her ability to plan it and to serve as its hostess. Could it be true? Their last party had been quite successful, except for the entertainment, and maybe that was because she had waited to start singing until everyone was almost ready to leave. She had not interpreted her guests moods correctly and would not make that mistake again. “I hope you are right, although after last night's performance, any confidence he had in me was most likely lost.

 

“I do have some experience at hosting parties. The one I mentioned earlier was a celebration of our marriage. Maybe if the banquet goes well and people speak of it positively, he will think more highly of me and forget his disappointment with the opera.”

 

Sophia already considered Diana her friend. They had both been married recently and were facing similar challenges. She could tell the Countess about matters her single and widowed friends could not comprehend. Diana was so understanding and she gave absolutely brilliant advice. The petite Baroness nodded when she suggested that she not put too much thought into her husband's motivations. Maybe no wives truly understood their husbands. Perhaps she had been trying too hard.

 

Sophia lifted her glass as well, and knocked back the last of her wine, placing the empty glass on the tray of a passing servant. “Ja, I have learned that the truth matters little here at court. Last spring, there were dreadful rumors circulating about me, as fictional as any tale you read in a book. But people believed them because fiction is more exciting than reality. And most courtiers love a good scandal, even if it comes at the expense of a lady's reputation. Luckily, mine did not suffer much.”

 

She sighed sadly. “And now I have given the rumormongers more fodder for gossip. I hope the way I behave tonight will put any rumors about my promiscuity to rest. If a gentleman propositions me, I will slap him in front of everybody.”

 

Maybe Diana was right and Esteban was testing her to see who she would choose to dance with. She had already decided to avoid Lord Dundarg and he had given his permission to dance with Lord Chatham and Lord Arundel. Sophia would approach Sunderland next. He was another gentleman her husband had suggested she dance with. Who else did he not trust around her? She couldn't think of anyone offhand. “I think you are right,” she replied thoughtfully. “He is probably watching me while he discusses politics and war.”

 

She glanced around the crowded room but did not see him. Was he observing her even now? In her slightly tipsy state, she considered what he would think if she kissed Diana under the mistletoe. Of course, she would do no such thing, but it was an amusing notion nonetheless and would definitely give her husband something to wonder about.

 

Sophia smiled gratefully when the Countess confirmed that she shouldn't use certain words when she spoke of the King. “I will remember that. Maybe some of the misconceptions about me come from my poor understanding of the English language. I doubt that is the only mistake I have made.”

 

Following Diana's gaze over to the Duchess of Ormonde, Sophia nodded. “I have heard of her and I would love for you to introduce us.” As they moved toward the Duchess' group, her new friend's cryptic comment about the Savoyards provoked a raised brow. “Now you have made me curious. I will be certain to remind you about your offer later.” Anything she could find out about Rinaldi could possibly be beneficial to Esteban.

[Blackguard]

Douglas

 

Queen Karoline was, indeed, a jealous wife. She could not stop her husband's affairs but she could make life difficult on those that sought to supplant her in the King's affections and attention.

 

"Lord Melville is a good man," Ursula acknowledged. Her husband liked the man. "I hear he has an affliction that springs up from time to time that causes him to retire from court to recuperate. God grant him a recovery." It was polite banter as the German watched other couples nearby and sought to distract her Queen from her husband's dance partner with comments about gowns worn by ladies nearby.

 

Caroline

 

The Duke of Ablemarle was in good enough spirits that he was happy to entertain whatever Caroline might suggest. "I should be happy to be your dance partner," he agreed readily, offering his arm to escort her to the dance area.

 

As they walked, he inquired "I am curious why you were so eager to meet me, as opposed to other lords here at court." He had never felt as popular as most of his contemporaries.

 

Diana and Sophia

 

Amelia Butler had been a beauty in her youth. Having married Thomas Butler and delivering 11 children, she was still in remarkable good shape. She had served Queen Catherine as her first Lady in Waiting, being a native of another country as well.

 

The 12 year old Lord Ossory was not present at the ball, but her two eldest daughters, Henrietta and Elizabeth were. Both had just left to dance with Irish lords, leaving Amelia alone for the moment.

[Charles Whitehurst]

Elizabeth Dwight and CW

 

Like most gentlemen, Charles was ignorant of the mental machinations inside Miss Dwight's mind. He was left to assume she was little more than a casual admirer. Perhaps she had seen him race, or merely admired his uniform ... and his shirt.

 

The honey blend was too sweet for tastes, but he did not find the taste unpleasant. It was more of a ladies drink, or something for a child. "It has a pleasant sweet taste," he remarked politely, waving off another sip if offered.

 

Her words about his late wife were unwelcome but he showed no disdain at how easily she dismissed a French Catholic. Though Charles was glad to be rid of her, it was improper to speak ill of the dead except with close friends. As such, he ignored her observation, and the added thought as to the difficulty in starting over. Rather, he merely offered a polite nod.

 

As for the Turks, he was surprised that she knew anything about them. To English girls they were likely little more than phantoms used to frighten children. "What is this about Turkish harm to a man?" Perhaps she knew of something that he should know. As to what they would do to English girl slaves, he shook his head. "Unspeakable things." To a lady of his recent acquaintance there was little more that he could say that was proper.

[Diana Butler]

The Pretty Blondes Club: Sophia and Diana

 

“When we are securing which seamstresses shall visit, we can give them just a very rough idea of what it is we have in mind and they can think about it then perhaps present us with some ideas and fabric suggestions… being experts with such matters.” It was a simple fix for the minor mole hill Sophia had thought up. “Mmmhm. That is another reason some samples would be appreciated, I think. We can test them against each other and determine which ones look the best on us, no?”

 

It was true the number of blondes about court were rather short. And the number of pretty ones even shorter. Sophia’s almost white hair was a much more delicate tone even compared to Diana’s honeyed locks, in that… Diana didn’t envy her friend. Sinking her top teeth into her lower pink lip, she tried to calculate how quickly they could debut the dresses. They would be cutting it short but perhaps it was possible. “That would be the most ideal outcome, but we had best plan on meeting with the seamstresses as soon as possible. We want don’t want any shoddy work with these dresses.”

 

“Do not be nervous, if there were to be any bad outcomes from the performance last night the gossip would already be spreading like a wildfire.” As if to prove a point she paused and half turned and gave Sophia a pointed look, it was a well known look for those who were accustomed to Diana. “You have been here long enough to dance, correct? Who have you danced with? Were they respectable men or were they rakes who leered at you like they knew what you looked like without your…” She stopped herself and raised a brow. “Do try to put last night out of your mind… you can’t undo it and courtiers can smell fear.” Turning she continued, a small smirk on her lips, “I would prefer not to be standing next to you if the wolves will be descending on the traces of fear they smell.”

 

She’d had to host her own marriage celebration? It caught Diana off guard, the Howards had put it together for her and Lord Gowran’s marriage. It seemed like a sad thing to her... so... she forced it from her mind. “It’s been my experience that ten good deeds still will not erase that of one bad one.” Diana looked over her shoulder, her lips thinned into a small frown. “You are an Ambassador’s wife, do not be afraid to take charge. If he is watching you… let him. Let him see you making acquaintances and working the room. We do not have to stand here in front of the refreshment table with our sad wine…” It wouldn’t have been hard to picture Diana at that moment waving a sword about and leading a charge into battle upon a fiery steed. Wine was a wonderful thing.

 

There was a wave of her hand at the talk of the Savoyards. Revenge was best served cold.

 

Joining Amelia Butler

 

Passing the two eldest of Amelia’s daughters as they walked up, Diana smiled warmly at her sister-in-law. “The girls look beautiful. How are they enjoying the Christmas Ball so far?” She leaned in to place a kiss on Amelia’s cheek. “Happy Christmas.”

 

“Let me introduce you to Lady Toledo, she’s the new Spanish ambassador’s wife and I am so envious of her voice.” Turning to Sophia, Diana smiled reassuringly at her friend. “Lady Toledo, this is Her Grace, the Duchess of Ormonde… She has the unfortunate misfortune to be my sister-in-law.” Looking back to Amelia she gave a small laugh, “Though I am not sure if it’s unfortunate because you're my sister-in-law or if it’s because you are my husband’s sister-in-law. Speaking of that handsome scoundrel, I was going to drag him off for a dance but no doubt has gone into hiding.”

[Caroline Despanay]

Ablemarle and Caroline

 

Ablemarle quite willingly agreed to accept her offer of the next dance, which seemed close to starting soon. The man extended his arm and Caroline accepted it with a smile as they then headed to the dance floor. He did have a question though. Why him? Why had she been so eager to meet him?

 

"Well, I am still new to court but I already have made a few close friends, one of them - Lord Maldon - knew I was looking for more party goers for my celebration and it was he who suggested I talk to you. He assured him you were of the sort of caliber I was looking for in my guests. So that made you doubly intriguing, both a Duke and a libertine," Caroline answered, hoping her blunt label of him would not offend the man. Most libertines were quite proud of such a distinction it seemed to her.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

The Pretty Blondes Club (Diana and Sophia) join the Duchess of Ormonde

 

If they could find seamstresses they trusted beyond reproach, Sophia would give them the sketches she planned to make of their designs. If she doubted their loyalty, she wouldn't even show them the drawings. What would stop them from going to other ladies and presenting the trend to them? The young Baroness didn't know why she was so paranoid lately. Maybe she was just growing up and seeing the world as it really was. In the past year, she had discovered that there was a lot to be wary of at court.

 

“If we can find several seamstresses to work on them, they could be ready by the end of the year. But that is cutting it a bit short. If we decide to have them heavily beaded, it will take much longer.” She smiled at her friend. “We can discuss all of this at our meeting, which should probably be held in the next few days.” She would be busy all day Sunday, but had some time free on Monday and Tuesday.

 

Again, Diana's advice was wise. Sophia had heard no gossip about the opera so far, so maybe Esteban's fears were unfounded. She did hope he wasn't bearing the blame for her performance. Did gentlemen even gossip? Where was he anyway? He seemed to have disappeared from the room. She had not seen him dance yet either. “The two gentlemen I danced with treated me with respect. I know that one of them attended the opera, but I am not certain whether the other did or not. Neither of them leered at me or said anything that could be interpreted as suggestive.

 

“In truth, it is the ladies I am more worried about. They can be so jealous, particularly of women like you and me.” Being known as a court beauty had both advantages and disadvantages. In Sophia's opinion, the unmarried ladies should be happy that she and Diana were off the marriage market. The unattached gentlemen would not drool over them anymore.

 

“I am not afraid,” the petite singer asserted. “Not anymore. I was nervous when I first arrived, but nobody has paid much attention to me at all. Perhaps the opera has already been forgotten.” Which would be sad, for it had been a spectacular event for the performers and the audience. Everyone had clapped so enthusiastically, even if there had been no flowers or encores. “If there are any wolves here tonight, they are circling my lord husband. It was he who had misgivings about our reception tonight.” She grinned impishly. “Maybe that is why I cannot see him. He has already been devoured!”

 

Sophia and Esteban had hosted their own marriage celebration because there was no one to do it for them. Her husband's family was in Madrid and she didn't have one. It had also been held a few weeks after they had been married in Amsterdam and had been more of a casual gathering of friends than a formal affair.

 

She nodded at Diana's suggestions. “If my wine was sad, it was because I drank it so fast. But you are right. I will not spare my lord husband another thought. He can watch me all night and he will only find reasons to compliment me. Thank you again for agreeing to introduce me to Lady Ormonde."

 

As they joined Amelia Butler, Sophia watched as Diana greeted her and kissed her on the cheek. While the Countess envied her voice, she envied Diana's connections. Both her own family and her husband's were powerful and influential. And English. She would have no trouble achieving anything she set out to do with her family's support. Sophia had to make her own way in the world. She did have a powerful lover to rely on, but he was far away and had little influence in England. If she moved permanently to Madrid, she would be able to reap the rewards of her relationship with Juan, even if their love had to remain secret forever.

 

The young Baroness curtsied prettily when she was introduced to the Duchess and smiled warmly. “It is an honor to meet you, Your Grace.”

[Cordelia Lucas]

John, the Cavendish Ladies, Cordelia

 

She smiled at John - how fortunate that he himself had supplied the means of escape - and so she had but to exchange some greeting with the Duchess then take her leave.

 

"I am glad to see you looking so well Your Grace."

 

She smiled as she gave a small reverance to Elizabeth as befitted her Rank then cooly passed her gaze over the younger sister but said nothing before turning back to John.

 

"I would indeed be most grateful for your supporting arm - that is unless you have promised a dance - I would not want to keep you from that. But I should like to meet your sisters as well and then there is someone I should like you to meet ..."

 

She hoped he had been in ernest about his offer

[Guest]

John and Cordelia with the Cavendish Ladies, preparing to depart

 

“No, your g-g-grace.” John said politely. “I suh-sometimes spend a dance with a lady off the floor but I’m not c-c-capable of dancing well.” It was a pale imitation, but at least it gave him some company. But no ladies had come up to him, so he’d spent his time meddling in favor of his friends and family.

 

When she asked for it, John held out his free arm (the other being occupied by his cane). “I b-b-believe a friend of… mine is going to t-t-try and introduce Lady Catherine to the Queen after the next dance. But after that, I’ll introduce you to who I c-c-can find.” He hadn’t seen Isaac, Abigail, or Devonshire for a while. He did hope they hadn’t left. Regardless, though, Catherine was the eldest and in the most pressing need.

 

“In the m-m-mean, I’d be delighted to meet this someone.” John was happy to be introduced to whomever the matron wished. He waited for her to indicate where to head and then he would lead her there. “Excuse us, your g-g-graces, Lady Frances.” He bowed.

[Cordelia Lucas]

John and Cordelia with the Cavendish Ladies, preparing to depart

 

She was curious, naturally, of the topic between John and the Duchess regarding her younger sister and she filed it away to be used at a better time. Twas not like the girl would be wed in the next month!

 

"The Queen you say? Well that is news indeed and one sure to bring her to the attention of those at Court - you must speak more of it as we walk. I am glad to hear that you yourself have managed it."

 

Cordelia also gave a reverance and then a nod to the younger sister before she accepted John's arm.

 

John and Cordelia looking to Join Lady Dunmore

 

It was a pleasure to have such an escot and for a moment her own thoughts drfted to another John and she felt sadness for his absence. She had no idea if he even was in London let alone what he was doing. No matter how much she sought to convience herself she could not entirely wash her hands of her own son.

 

"Tell me more about Catherine - what type of girl is she? How old that type of thing - I think she will not have difficulity in being matched. You are an Earl John and as such will be seen as the one that provides her dowery - but you must be careful regarding her jointure."

 

"I have seen too many suffer when husbands die early and they are left alone with children and the father-in-law refuses to pay it. It is her only REAL entitlement and so you should have a care in the selection of a husband."

 

"Will you meet an acquaintance of mine? She is Lady Dunmore and she has expressed the desire to be presented. She could be useful to you John - she has been a long time at Court and knows many. And if not for Catherine then for your own self. Oh I know the tale you spin about marriage for the girls but you forget that many eyes fall upon you as well."

 

"Your House needs an Heir and so you need a Wife! There too we both might be of some aid if you allow. By all means shop for Catherine but do not be closed off to your own chances. You need to make Family Alliances of your own that are seperate from Cavendish - connections that include other Nobel Families and their relations - for a son of your body inherits and Maldon is no cheap sale."

 

"Have you seen any that you like? Any that might please you?"

 

She felt this area out too for the sake of Mistress Dwight or any one of the few that had been seen as a good match for him off that List.

 

She had been quielty speaking as they walked and she had adjusted her normal pace to his without thought every now and then giving a nod in greeting as they continued on.

 

Her eyes searched out the place where the two ladies had agreed to meet

[Douglas FitzJames]

Douglas, Ursula and the Queen

 

"Och aye?" Douglas was a little surprised to hear Ursula's comment. "Laird Melville luiked hale an' heerty last season." He mused, shrugging broad shoulders. "Hopefully he weel be agin soon."* Douglas had spent enough time recovering from various wounds to know how annoying such things could be.

 

Lady Mountjoy was subtle in her attempts to distract the Queen, but they didn't seem to be working. She was busy watching the King. Douglas sucked his breath in through his teeth thoughtfully.

 

"His Majesty is allus popular at such events." He observed. "I think t'amuses him." He added. The lure of power, the King enjoyed the popularity but Douglas didn't think he set too much stock in brief dances. "He happreciates a lairdy wha kin dance." He turned to look at the Queen. "Ye mun be amongst the best, Yer Majesty." He observed.

 

The King would surely dance with the Queen for the final dance. That would be one to watch.

 

In the distance he could see Lauderdale in one direction and Monck in another. He should probably collar one or the other, he had things to discuss with both.

 

Subtitles

* "Oh yes? Lord Melville looked hale and hearty last season. Hopefully he will be again soon."

** "His Majesty is always popular at such events. I think it amuses him. He appreciates a lady who can dance. You must be amongst the best, Your Majesty."

[Hope]

Elizabeth Dwight & CW with Constance approaching

 

Lizzie thought herself to be making grand progress, why this was now two prospective suitors already, and there was hours of the ball yet to go!

 

But then beyond Charles shoulder she saw the battle ship of a figure; Lady Dunmore approaching.

 

"Ahh... perhaps we go out to the balcony, and I can tell you?" She had a dual purpose, first to escape the court matrons company, and secondly, perhaps they'd canoodle?

 

 

 

OOC: Cordelia might see her friend across the room headed for her own target.

[Blackguard]

All

 

The next dance was about to begin and couples were moving with haste towards that portion of the hall.

 

Amelia, Diana, and Sophia

 

Lady Ormonde smiled at Diana's approach. She was pleased with Gowran's pick, despite the fact that Diana was said to have but a small dowry. As the Dutch woman was introduced to Sophia, that smile flickered for a moment. She was confronted by two blond beauties but the one married to the Spaniard was said to be libertine. As such, she was probably a poor influence on Diana. Lord Gowran was no prude, to be sure, but Howard and Butler ladies were held to a high standard.

 

"Happy Christmas to you too Diana. It has been a gay ball. Gone are the dark clouds that have loomed over the last year I think. Henrietta and Elizabeth are taking advantage of this merriment of asking gentlemen to dance." She turned her attention to Sophia.

 

"Lady Toledo. Happy Christmas. I have heard of your ... singing. Quite divine I am told. I am surprised that you and your husband are not spending the holidays back home in Spain."

 

Caroline and Chris

 

It is always a good balm to hear another state how honored they are to meet you. Chris Monck was no exception, at least in that way.

 

"Moi? A libertine? Hardly," the Duke corrected. "Has Maldon been telling you that?" Ablemarle was off the proper set, in part because of his title and name, and in part because of his nettlesome wife. That did not mean that the young Duke did not have more than his fair share of improper thoughts. He did. The Merry Gang was too merry for him, and too witty. He could not keep up with them in most any endeavor. He preferred to watch libertines, much as he preferred to watch that which he desired.

 

ooc~ Your next post should be on the dance floor please.

 

Douglas

 

The Queen had been ignoring FitzJames, but the stubborn Scot seemed intent on speaking with her nevertheless. Karoline was not pleased with his reference to her husband at all. In saying that her husband appreciate a lady who could dance, the jealous Queen heard nothing but an insult that his step-sister was a better dancer than she. Was not the King dancing with Catriona rather than his own wife? The hollow flattery about her ability did not fool her. She doubted the Scot had ever seen her dance. He is spying on me for her. She was giving in to her paranoia, fueled by jealousy.

 

Her sigh was detected by Ursula. The Queen did not answer Douglas, nor meet his gaze. "Lucy," Ursula beckoned. "Why don't you ask the Captain to dance?" Lucille Seymour, Duchess of Somerset, came alive at the command. She had been hoping to do more dancing, but her duties required her to stand with the Queen until another lady came to relieve her. She was a young beauty and eager enough to obey this command.

 

"Captain?" Lucy declared. "The dance is about to begin. We best had hurry."

[Diana Butler]

Amelia, Sophia, and Diana

 

Diana had carefully been regarding her sister-in-law and had not missed the faint flicker in Amelia’s smile before she’d turned her attention back to Diana. Just how bad was it? With a steady smile, the blonde countess nodded her head, “Let us hope so, our seeds of happiness could use some sunshine to fully bloom.” Her gaze shifted to the last glimpse of the retreating girls moving to the dance floor, “As they should, the merriment is contagious.”

 

Her gaze darted around the room, looking for everyone and yet no one at the same time. Amelia's pause before admitting she’d heard of Lady Toledo’s singing forced her grey eyes to flicker momentarily to the Duchess. It wouldn’t have been that noticeable if someone wasn’t familiar with Amelia. Veering her glance to Sophia, she gave her an encouraging smile. This is your chance to show her… to show your husband you are capable of moving with proper society.

 

“Oh! I hadn’t even thought of that! I bet Madrid is so beautiful this time of year.” Diana murmured smoothly, adjusting her gaze so that she was focused back on Amelia. Hopefully it would buy Sophia the time to choose her words carefully, plan them so no more accidents would occur.

[Guest]

John and Cordelia approaching Lady Dunmore, as well as Charles Whitehurst and Mistress Dwight, who may or may not be fleeing

 

As they left, “We shall see if m-m-my friend can… accomplish it.” John admitted it was no certain thing. “But it’s a German t-t-tradition to receive gifts on Christmas. I brought her something f-f-from her home, as did my friend, so hopefully the Queen will… like it.”

 

The optics of his sister with the Spanish ambassador or a lady undergoing scandal, however, were best not thought of. John would, at any rate, be with her, which might soften it. Or perhaps she would go up without Sophia, if such had really tainted her so thoroughly. John was watching her in part to determine that and there would no doubt be some strategizing.

 

“Nineteen. Well educated and p-p-proper, as my family is. Seems a b-b-bit shy though, especially out in society.” She apparently had a tendency to cling when someone offered attention, as she had with Sir Burgoyne. “I hope to m-m-make her a lady in waiting, and so improve her… p-p-prospects.” Thus the matter with the Queen. “And Lady Abigail to some other royal l-l-lady.” It seemed a sound enough strategy to him, even if it pushed back their marriages a bit.

 

“The marriage negotiations w-w-will be determined by the circumstances… of her marriage.” John said simply, “But she d-d-does have a dowry set away. As does Abby. And I w-w-will see them protected in the contract and p-p-put great care in who their… husband is.” He pledged. Of course, character was only one consideration of that care. Rank, wealth, position, and connections all weighed heavily. Beauty and love weighed too, but lightly.

 

“Of c-c-course.” John agreed to meet Cordelia’s friend easily. He’d not heard of Lady Dunmore, though she sounded like another matron. “I should be g-g-glad of her help and her company.”

 

“My b-b-brother is my heir.” John clarified, “And I only avoid marriage for his… sake. He has buh-better prospects as the heir to a sickly, unmarried earl than he p-p-perhaps ever will… again.” It was the sort of sober reflection that came when one wasn’t sober. Truthfully, he would probably become rather sick around the time of his brother’s marriage negotiations.

 

“You w-w-will not be able to draw my focus off my sisters, for their need is… more pressing.” John continued, “B-b-but that is the m-m-main stumbling block to searching for myself.” That and Devonshire’s advice he shouldn’t begin to court anyone until he was at least twenty-two.

 

“Mmm.” John reflected, “The… d-d-duke wasn’t so close connection at times.” John admitted, “Though n-n-now Lord Ogle is marrying Devonshire’s grandniece, so he is… again.” While a marriage to the duke might have made sense beforehand, now it would simply be binding two already closely connected branches even further. Whether that would profit anybody anything was debatable.

 

Of course, if Lord Ogle passed away, there would be two lucrative heiresses with claims on titles for the family to settle. And that closer connection between Newcastle and Devonshire would be severed. John and his brother would be ideal for them then, Cavendish men and well ranked, and because they were siblings the double marriage would remake the dynastic connections… but John banished the thought. It was ill to think of taking advantage in anyone’s death, even an inept distant cousin.

 

The Lady Percy, the last of the Percies, was accounted for by Lord Ogle. The Cecils, Maynards, Riches, Sidneys, and Bruces, who had close ties to his family, lacked unmarried daughters of a proper age. The Seymours had long desired a connection to Devonshire, and had contracted a marriage with their house only for it to be barren, but they had no women either as far as John knew.

 

The Butlers and Howards were connected and had daughters. But they were Tories and full of Catholics. Besides, Ormonde had discouraged a suit by his manner. And despite some ties, John had reason to think of the Howards as hostile. Besides, his loyalties were inseparably tied to his family, which hardly recommended him to the Howards.

 

“There are l-l-ladies who are pleasing and families who are p-p-pleasing but no pleasing ladies from pleasing families so far.” John said. He’d previously avoided speaking on this, but alcohol was lowering his inhibitions a bit. Nicolette’s rank was too low and she didn’t seem like the faithful sort. Henrietta’s family had been unfriendly and inaccessible, excepting the Catholics, who were Catholic. And connections were only worth anything if they were taken seriously.

 

John headed towards, at Cordelia’s instruction, Lady Dunmore, Charles Whitehurst, and Mistress Dwight. They were all perfectly unknown to him, although he could guess the elder lady was the court matron.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Amelia, Diana, and Sophia

 

Sophia, too, saw the Duchess' smile falter briefly. Either she attended the opera or she has heard about it. Yet she did not openly snub her or gaze at her with disapproval. To the young Baroness, that meant that her opinion was not set in stone, and that she could win her over if she played her cards right. And if she succeeded, she might get her foot in the door of the social circles Esteban wished her to become a part of.

 

Perhaps she had also heard her sing hymns at the King's birthday celebration dressed as an angel. That performance had been the exact opposite of the one she had given at the opera. Maybe that image still lingered in the Duchess' mind. Sophia simply needed to reinforce it. She caught Diana's encouraging look. The Countess, too, knew that this was a good chance to prove that she was more proper than libertine.

 

She waited politely as Diana and Amelia exchanged pleasantries and when the Duchess' gaze turned to her, Sophia gave her her full attention. “Happy Christmas to you too, Your Grace.” She blushed and lowered her eyes demurely when Amelia complimented her voice. So she had not been at the opera and probably not at the King's birthday ball either if she had never heard her sing. “I do not know if what you have heard is true, but God has given me the gift of song, and I believe He bestowed it upon me so that I can share it with others for His glory.”

 

She smiled at both ladies when they spoke of Madrid. “We visited Spain during recess. It was quite beautiful, but with my husband's promotion to Ambassador, our place is in England now. I do love it here. We will probably return to Madrid temporarily when the season is over. I have done quite a bit of traveling lately. My lord husband and I were married in Amsterdam. It was a lovely city in which to be wed and I hope to visit it again in the near future.”

[Charles Whitehurst]

CW and Lizzie Dwight

 

Charles did not see the approach of Lady Dunmore behind him. When Lizzie asked to go out upon the balcony, he was surprised. he had imagined that she would want to dance. Being a gentleman, he was inclined to indulge her request. "Very well, shall we be off?" It was getting a bit stuffy inside anyway.

 

Offering her his arm, Charles was ready to escort her towards the nearest doors unless Dunmore intervened. He did not wish to be gone long, as there was still to be another dance or two left to go. He had promised Catherine the last.

[Louis Killington]

Davina and Louis

 

"T'would seem My Lord that in all the excitement of the Evening You have forgot the order has been reversed. Yet I can hardly fault for tis such an odd occurrence! Very well, I shall allow for this one exception to the nights 'Rule', and accept Your offer of the next dance."

 

Neither the Duchess or Lady Pembroke could fault her little speech for it was True - the ususal Order Of Things had been upset - and there could be no fault attached to her for the wanting to follow it.

 

Offering him a nice enough curtsey she then did the same to the two ladies then stood patiently waiting for him to lead her away.

 

The Earl of Basildon had been certain that Davina had asked him to dance but that Mall had outranked her with her own request. Louis was merely following up on that previous invitation. Fortunately, Davina did not seek to withdraw her previous invitation. Rather, she went along with it.

 

They had waited for Buckingham and Nicolette to return to the group; but, they did not. It may have been that Nicolette had used her healthy charm to distract the Duke. Once it became clear that the Mall's brother was not returning any time soon, Louis decided to bid Mall and Lady Pembroke farewell and escorted Davina towards the dance floor. There was no more time to spare.

 

"Shall we be off?" he invited Davina, extending his elbow. Bows to the two Villiers matrons followed and the young couple took their leave.

 

"Are you disappointed, my lady, that you did not have the opportunity to ask the Duke to dance?" He had guessed that could be the only reason she had stayed around. "I am certain there are many other young lords that would be flattered to dance with you." He was encouraging the maid to stay away from the older lords. No good could come of it for her.

 

 

OOC~ Off to the dance floor.

[Douglas FitzJames]

Douglas annoying the Queen before leaving with Lucy Seymour

 

Douglas thought he was complimenting the Queen, meaning that she must be the best dancer in the Kingdom, and advising that she catch the King’s attention by showing them. After all, it was Lady’s Night. If the Queen wanted to dance with the King, she had but to ask him. But all things were subjective, and people had an amazing ability to only hear what they expected, himself amongst them.

 

But the Queen refused to even look at him, let alone talk to him, caught up in her staring at the King and Catriona. So much for his attempt to distract her, and so much for her supposedly being a Queen of the people. Icy bitch. Douglas hated to be ignored, and was terribly stubborn.

 

Ursula must have realised that he wasn’t going to take the hint, as she called to another of the Queen’s ladies. Lucy; that would be the Duchess of Somerset, she had the good Basildon looks. “Yer Grace, I wuid be honoured.”* Douglas said with a bow, accepting a dance with a Duchess in place of a conversation with a Queen.

 

Offering her his arm and a warm smile. “I hope Her Majesty finds ocht tae mak her smile.”** He said, a kind of verbal shrugged. Christmas was a joyful season and the Queen looked anything but.

 

But the Queen was not on his arm, rather a young and beautiful Duchess, who now deserved his undivided attention. “Whit er ye mos’ luikin forrard tae this season, Yer Grace?”*** He asked as they reached the dance floor just as the musicians tuning up warned that the dance would begin.

 

OOC: To the dance floor?

 

Subtitles

* “Your Grace, I would be honoured.”

** “I hope Her Majesty finds something to make her smile.:

*** “What are you most looking forward to this season, Your Grace?”

[Aria]

Douglas and Lucy

 

Lucy beamed when Lord Dundarg agreed to dance with her. She knew enough about the Queen to tell when she was annoyed and it couldn't be easy for her to talk with the brother of the mistress who was currently distracting the King. She knew that Lady Mountjoy was using her to get him away, but she didn't care. This was the first ball of the season and she would rather be dancing than standing sedately by Her Majesty's side.

 

The dark-haired Duchess took his arm. She, too, hoped that the Queen would be happy tonight. If only the King would leave Lady Alyth and go back to his wife's side, all would be well. Lucy had become quite fond of the Queen and she knew how much the very existence of his mistresses vexed her. She would feel the same way if her own husband took a mistress.

 

continued in dance thread ...

[Blackguard]

Amelia, Diana, and Sophia

 

Sophia's answer was a good one. A bit of humility when it came to God's gifts was a good thing. That response earned a smiling nod. One's purpose on Earth was to serve God after all. It was clear that the blond beauty had been blessed by God in multiple ways.

 

Her explanation for not being in Madrid was a sound one, so that earned a nod. It was a bonus to hear that she wed her husband in Amsterdam. "It is such a cosmopolitan city like London," the Duchess uttered in fond remembrance. "How did it come about that you choose to wed there?" It would have been more natural for the German girl to wed in her home state, Spain or London.

[Cordelia Lucas]

Lady Lucas, Lord Maldon arriving and joining Lady Dunmore, CW and Lizzie

 

"You have good intentions any can see that." She complemented him quietly. "Your sister sounds quite well mannered and I should much like to be presented - and to the others' if you see fit."

 

She woud include them all for that way they in turn might grow to see HER as Family - distant even tho she was.

 

"Your brother?" This did surprise. "So you will absent yourself from that Title because you think you are unmatchable and thus unable to get a son or two? From what I have seen Lord Maldon You are far from incapable and if I am frank, as the excuse of my Age allows, you seem to believe it."

 

Her eyes traveled ahead and she could read well enough the young girls body language as she also saw Lady Dunmore approach - we must catch the little bird afore she flys .....

 

"I mean no disrespect to you naturally and so I shall leave off. I would introduce you to Lady Dunmore and I must confess I do not know the young girl nor that Gentlemen but she will no doubt rectify. Mayhap the girl might be someone your sister Catherine can be acquainted with? She will need those of her own age about."

 

The duo was but a breath away from joing in

 

"Ah. Constance. I have brought Lord Maldon as promised."

 

Her voice light and pleasant and charming as was her smile. Once acknowledged then she would preform her introduction and allow the others theirs.

[Diana Butler]

Amelia, Sophia, and Diana

 

Diana had to catch herself from showing her lapse of shock at Sophia as she demurely spoke of her pious gifts. It had been only a few short moments ago, the Sophia had told her she’d only went to church for the singing and now she was speaking of her religious relationship in a more intimate form. Not that it mattered either way, it was a calculated move from Sophia and one that Diana could appreciate.

 

“I’ve not had the opportunity to visit Spain in my travels but I would imagine the climate is more compliant.” Amelia jumped on the question about Sophia’s marriage in Amsterdam. Diana grew quiet, her gaze shifting from the Baroness to the Duchess as they spoke.

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina and Louis

 

Taking their leave with smiles she was led away by Basildon who questioned her about his beng 'second place' to the Duke

 

"Disappointed? Not at all My Lord for this is but a slight altering of my direction and so the chance will yet come. Oh I have danced the first with the Dutch Amabassador, could not find the Danish one for the second but now have YOU for the third - so I would think it well enough rounded out so far."

 

She was rather amused with Basildon and with her now practiced eye could see clear how a woman might be taken in by his manner and speech. Those thoughts she'd had before Charles, well, they were simply those composed from stories and such. The reality had been far better.

 

'he would be selfish in bed'

 

That private thought made her chuckle and used it to finish his question

 

"I should hope that there are indeed many but I have my eye only on a few - and what better way then through a Mothers' kindness?"

 

She would let him think it was Herbert she was after thus her remaining with his Mother. Well it was a partial Truth after all so hardly a real lie.

 

 

 

continued in dance thread

[Sophia de la Cerda]

Amelia, Diana, and Sophia

 

Sophia was completely sincere about using her gift of song for the glory of God, which was one of the principal reasons she went to church at all. Singing hymns was one way to share her talent with others. She also knew that attending church was expected, especially now that she was married to a Catholic. And if the Queen believed that she was pious, she might be more likely to allow her into her circle of friends. Her Majesty's inner circle was the position to which the young Baroness truly aspired, and she wondered if Lady Ormonde was part of that group.

 

She nodded at Diana's supposition about Spain's climate. “Even in autumn, it was quite warm. It is much like Italy. I doubt it ever snows there. On the way back, the closer we came to England, the colder it got. I think I should like to visit next year during the winter to see what it is like then, if my lord husband's duties permit it.” Idly, she wondered if Diana had traveled as much as she had. It was something she would be sure to ask her later.

 

Amelia inquired as to why she and her husband had decided to marry in Amsterdam. Sophia wasn't sure whether she should tell her that they had gone there to join Don Juan, as she didn't know how the Duchess felt about Spain and its new ruler.

 

“We wanted a small private ceremony in a beautiful place and my lord husband suggested Amsterdam, a city I had always wanted to visit. The church we were married in was old and quite charming with the sun shining through the stained glass windows. We were wed in late July and it seemed that everywhere we went, flowers were blooming. I bought quite a few paintings while I was there. Perhaps you would like to see them?"

[Hope]

Lady Lucas, Lord Maldon arriving and joining Lady Dunmore, CW and Lizzie

 

... and Elizabeth almost got away with it too, if not for the pesky... "Mistress Dwight, yoo-hoo, Mistress Dwight!" Constances shrill voice behind them was unignorable.

 

Her arm was linked through Charles at this moment, and they, making their escape, when she had to pause and look at the Earl. He must have heard it also. Would he be game, and hurry with her to the door? Or, no, he was probably too decorous for that. Men in uniform did not sprint from ballrooms.

 

With a dramatic sigh she turned. "Oh. Hello." lower lip, gleaming soft and pink, jutted.

 

"I thought that was you." Constance ignored the girls sulk (she'd seen more sulky girls than some people had had hot dinners!), "and stand me corrected if that is not Lord Langdon, of such high repute." she gave the young man a winsome smile. Her mind meanwhile recalled his position upon the bachelors list, and made note of his apparent interest in this girl. No doubt it was the large dowry that appealed to him, for her rank was not so much. "What a pleasant surprise. Lady Constance Dunmoore, enchanted." she extended her hand to him with the directness of the old. She was quite certain he'd have heard of her, and of her specialised interest.

 

Yet barely had they settled, than Cordelia arrived with equal (if not stronger) bluster to the group. No doubt the narratives would describe it more gracefully, though in fact it was a large bluster. "Ah." Constance returned turning to the gentleman brought hither for his introduction to her - she expected Constance to perform the honors. While she for her part introduced the newly met Lord Langdon, and Elizabeth Dwight.

 

Once over that hump she gave a pleased smile to Cordelia. "Now what a fine situation this is, two bachelors for one prospective bride, it's practically a cornucopia." Trust the aged to address the elephant in the room. Lizzie, thinking the elephant was her, was sooooo embarassed.

[Douglas FitzJames]

Douglas and Lucy

 

…continued from dance thread.

 

The dance came to a close and, after applauding their partners, the groups broke up and scattered as pairs wandered away. Douglas offered Lucy his arm once more. “Thank ye Yer Grace. I far prefer tae celebrate a joyfu’ season, ‘specially in such fine comp’ny.”* He smiled at her as they walked. What better way to do so than with the innocent exertion and flirtation of a dance?

 

A servant passed them and Douglas caught two glasses of punch from the tray, offering one with a bow to Lucy. “May I spier ye a question?” He asked, blue eyes regarding her pretty face thoughtfully for a moment. “I wuid value yer advice.”**

 

Subtitles

* “Thank you Your Grace. I far prefer to celebrate a joyful season, especially in such fine company.”

** “May I ask you a question? I would value your advice.”

[Guest]

John, Cordelia, CW, Lady Dunmore, and Mistress Dwight

 

“I think you will be a most… useful connection.” John said with a smile. John appreciated the power old matrons wielded. Besides, John was always attempting to weld together a family from disparate parts. The Lucases might well have their place.

 

“Maybe.” John replied. He wasn’t sure he would. There was a weight, a sadness to the word. He returned to something more light afterward, “But t-t-tactically, if Isaac’s prospects are best when I’m unmarried, shouldn’t he marry first?” Yet Cordelia closed the topic and John was fine with moving on.

 

John smiled and introduced himself politely as Constance introduced everyone. He’d spoken to Langdon very briefly but only remembered the man upon introduction. As he recalled, he’d dashed after Davina with a rather… particular sort of fervor.

 

John laughed, “The lady already has a m-m-man on her arm. She would not be so ill bred as to abandon him at the first passer by.” Whatever the truth of the matter, pretending the lady had already made her choice and could not change it was most comfortable. “Though perhaps her beau should remove the temptation entirely.” John gave Langdon a look telling him they should leave while they still had the chance.

 

John was, probably to the detriment of his romantic prospects, usually polite and respectful. Unless Langdon was a rogue and the matrons objected to him in toto, it would be rude to snatch away the girl. The thought was particularly on his mind after Heather's stunt.

[Aria]

Douglas and Lucy

 

Lord Dundarg moved with an athletic grace, and he seemed to enjoy dancing as much as she did, which he confirmed by his answer to her question. Lucy grinned at him before she whirled away from him. She looked forward to dancing with handsome gentlemen as well, and was pleased that he was her first partner of the evening. Had he participated in the previous two dances, or was she the first lady he had danced with tonight? Her attention had been on the Queen and not on the dancers, and she had no idea who had been dancing and who had not.

 

She curtsied gracefully when the dance came to an end, and a crimson blush suffused her cheeks when he applauded her. She took his arm and allowed him to lead her out of the dancing area. “And thank you, my lord. Dancing with you was quite delightful and I too, anticipate a joyful season. The last one was so somber.”

 

Lucy adored his smile and she graciously accepted the glass of punch he offered her. “Of course, you may ask me anything you want,” she replied, her blue eyes sparkling with curiosity. She was only fifteen and it was very rare that anyone asked for her advice. What, she wondered, was on his mind?

[Charles Audley]

Entering the ball room was almost like walking into a particularly noisy oven after the icy peace of the gardens. Charles sent his eye flickering around, seeking any sign of their little lamb or any other who seemed to be remarking on their return. He had no sense of shame, but it made sense to keep track of such things regardless. Smiling wistfully, he spoke.

 

"Well, much as I might desire to, if I keep you to myself every man in the room is going to try to kill me. If you have any particular destination in mind, I shall escort you. Barring that, I shall, with the greatest regret, take my leave." He gave her one last sinful smile. "For now."

[Blackguard]

Amelia, Diana, and Sophia

 

"I should like to visit Spain," the Duchess replied. She had heard good things about it. "But I shal wait until there is no more war." That might mean that she would be waiting for a long time.

 

The offer to see paintings from Amsterdam caused her to become particularly interested. "I should like that." It would bring back memories no doubt and cause her to become nostalgic for her homeland. She looked towards Diana to include her in the conversation as well, not wanting to exclude her in any way.