#guild leo

Ellenia Leoni's Theme song

Date Night

Ellenia stood before her full length mirror, hands raised as she tidied her crimson curls, her maid bustling about her as she adjusted her gown and laced up her corset in the back, making sure the redhead was absolutely presentible for her date. Fortunately, Elleina was in much better health this evening and certainly looked it, her fair complexion aglow and her gentle blue pools alight as she awaited Gabriel's arrival.

Gabriel made sure he was presentable. Grooming himself well and putting on a nice cologne. He made sure his hair was done nicely then headed to the Leoni household. He was wearing a fetching blue coat and nice well fit pants and shirt. He lightly raps on the door, he is holding a bouquet of flowers.

Ellenia dabbed a little bit of perfume upon her wrist and rubbed them together and along the sides of her neck, the fragrance a soft pleasant floral, gardenia perhaps. The maid moved off to answer the door as the knock sounded and Nia saw to last minute touch ups, her lips stained crimson par usual, and every aspect of her appearance immaculate as was typical. As the maid opened the door to emit Gabriel into the foyer, Ellenia descended the stairs slowly, aided by the rail as she decided to leave her cane behind this time.

She was clad in a lovely, flattering gown of black and green, the skirt lifted and layered elegantly, black lace trimming the bodice, collar, and sleeves. Her red curls were pinned up with a gemmed hair comb. She was the picture of noble beauty. Her features lit up happily as her gaze rested upon Gabriel, the handsome man looking even more dashing in his chosen attire and a bouquet in his hands.

  "Good evening, Mr. Cavalli." she greeted softly, a soft warm glow about her as she addressed him.

Gabriel turns to look up at her. He cleaned up well for himself. The image of a gentleman soldier. He bows to her lightly as she takes the last step. He reaches out to delicately take her hand and lightly kisses it.

  "Lady Leoni." he says in a nice tune. He lifts up to offer the flowers to her.

A warm blush touched her lovely features as he pressed a tender peck to the back of her white knuckles, a soft smile gracing her shapely lips. She accepted the bouquet with a quiet giggle, giving the colorful blooms an appreciative sniff,

  "These are beautiful, Gabriel. Thank you so much."

  The maid offered to take them and place them in a vase of water, leaving the pair alone before the hearth. Ellenia turned towards her date for the evening and offered him a warm smile, "You are most thoughtful... And you look very handsome."

He bows his head to her compliment.

"I think you are quite beautiful Lady Leoni." he says honestly as he looks at her lovely face. "I hope you enjoy the flowers. "

She continued to smile, her blush returning at his own compliment,

  "I certainly will, they will bring some life and color to my room where I can enjoy them every day." she reassured.

  She offered him a shy smile as she reached for her shawl hanging on a coat peg near by,

"I hope the weather isnt too bad out."

He looks at her then says.

  "No, it isn't. Or at least at this moment it isn't. Hopefully it stays that way." he offers his arm to her once her shawl was on.

  "I have a carriage waiting for us to go to our destination."

She smiled and nodded, taking hold of his arm and letting him lead her outside, the maid closing the door behind them. She looked to the carriage, a common means for the ill woman to get about when it came to long distances.

  "This is wonderful, I do hope you didn't go through any trouble...." She turned her gaze to her escort.

Gabriel shakes his head then says.

  "None in the least." he offers to help her into the carriage, which wasn't covered, he looks at her as he helps her up.

  "Please, tell me if you are cold at all."

Graciously accepting his aid, she stepped up into the carriage and scooted along the bench before settling comfortably, running her hands over her skirts to smooth them out. She looked to Gabriel and flashed him a sweet smile,

  "Thank you."

  She readjusted her shawl about her shoulders as he joined her, the evening pleasant though still cool due to the winter season.

  "I will. But I think I should be alright." she tried to reassure.

He sits down lightly next to her, being a socially acceptable distance, being nothing but proper. He taps the side then turns to her as the carriage lightly pulls them along.

  "If you aren't, please tell me. we have a blanket for you."

She smiled at him reassuringly,

  "Thank you, you're so thoughtful. I'll be sure to let you know if I start to feel chilly." she promised.

  As the carriage  rolled down along the cobblestone streets, her loose curls about her face bounced lightly.

  "I hope you have been well, Mr. Cavalli."

He shifts to look at her again.

  "Yes, I have been. I hoped to finish some things up today and did." he looks to the side then to her.

  "I truthfully was working a few hours before our night."

She laughed softly, pulling gloves onto her fair delicate hands before folding them neatly in her lap, perched there like a proper lady,

  "It's quite alright. You were right on time."

  Her lips remained curled with a pleasant smile as her blue orbs shifted to glance at their surroundings.

  "So, Mr. Cavalli, where are we headed this evening? Or is it a surprise?" she mused playfully.

"For now, it will be quite the secret." he looks at her,

  "I will ask though, are you afraid of hights?" he looks back down to his hands politely to not seem like he was staring at her

She looked to him curiously but shook her head,

  "Not that I am aware of. See, the Leoni estate is located on a hill top overlooking the ascalonian settlement so I've grown use to the view. Other than that, I've been aboard an airship once. I actually enjoy the view from high up, you can see so much and so far.... The land looks like a beautiful water painting from so high up."

He nods listening to her every word.

  "I have been on the towers of the Reach before and the walls. It was interesting...I also visited Vigil keep and been on their battlements." he looks to the driver then her.

  "But never on an airship. That must of been exhilarating."

Her smile grew at the memory,

  "It was breath taking.... I felt like a bird, so free as I flew so far above the lands and waters, so close to the clouds. Sometimes it felt like... if I reached out far enough, I could touch them. It was so beautiful, especially once sunset fell."

  Her gaze returned to him, "My uncle was an air pilot."

He watches her speak and he tilts his head when she smiles. His ever stern expression seeming to soften a little when hearing her memory.

  "Sounds very nice indeed." he looks to the crimson sky.

  "I never liked the idea of leaving the ground...always was foreign to me."

She nodded in understanding as the carriage continued to rattle along the cobblestones,

  "Yes, I too was a bit apprehensive about being up in the air but... Once you are up there... the view and the fresh air... it is really an experience everyone should have at least once. Its like floating in the heavens." she stated wistfully.

  Her robin hued gaze shifted back to Gabriel, offering him another or her tender smiles, her stray curls and the dangling gem earrings she wore bobbing and swaying with the motion of the carriage.

  "So, Mr. Cavalli, how is your niece? Tammy...? Tina...no-Cassy? Forgive me, I seem to have forgotten her name...." she trailed off, blushing.

"Tessa. She is well. Questioning as to why I was dressing up but for now she has been distracted by school and life." he nods then looks at her.

  "And your family?" he asked patiently

She gave another sheepish chuckle,

  "Of course, Im sorry. Tessa... I'll remember this time." she promised.

  "As for my family, they are all well, busy with their own endeavours in life. Aaron, a cousin I grew up with like a brother is in the Shining Blade so he keeps himself busy. My younger sister Sasha has made it her mission to sample all the different liquors in the Reach, the silly girl. I believe she wants to go into the brewery business, which I applaud her enthusiasm but question the method." she laughed jokingly.

  "My Niece has been raising her own little one and I have an uncle whose been aiding me with some business in the Reach. We keep ourselves busy in one way or another."

"It sounds like a busy family." he nods slowly.

  The carriage stops in front of a well known eating establishment in the city. This one was known for noble cooking and the most eloquent of service. Gabriel gets down then offers his hand up to her gently.

She scooted to the edge of the cushioned bench and accepted his hand as he gallantly aided her down out of the carriage, the woman was remarkably light, perhaps unhealthily so, and it proved unchallenging in easing her to the ground. She offered him a grateful smile,

  "Thank you." Her hand remained in his as her gaze slid to the dining establishment, "Oh my, this is a surprise."

He keeps her hand, though for support, for now. He looks at her then says.

  "I was able to pull some strings...and i hope the surprises keep coming."

Her smile grew as he lead her to the entrance of the building and entered inside, the place full and decorated lavishly with candles alight upon the tables which sat nestled next to windows in some places and booths in others, the whole building smelling of rich foods and fine wines.

  "Oh my... I've never been here before.... Of course, I don't eat out much... but this place is amazing...."

  Her hand gave his a soft squeeze as she remained close to his side.

"Then we will both share in a first." he nods at this.

  A host walks over then guides them off to a side room, in this they were all by themselves. The room was higher up and open air. It had a nice fire place and comfortable. Their table was set in front of the open air view that overlooked the colorful district. Gabriel pulls out her chair for her to help her sit down.

She offered Gabriel a bashful smile,

  "Thank you." and lowered herself into her chair, getting comfortable.

  She slipped off her gloves and shawl, exposing her bare pale shoulders. She offered her date a sweet smile as he scooted her in and moved to take his own seat across from her. When the waiter asked for her drink order, as asked for a red wine.

He pauses as he contemplates what drink to order. He looks down then says.

  "Water. Chilled. Please." he knew it wasn't typical not to have wine but he wanted to stay on his principles.

  "I am sorry for restating, you look pretty tonight...not that you don't always." he bows his head slightly, his stern expression faltering a moment as he bumbles with his words.

She offered him a sweet smile, "Thank you. You're very sweet Mr. Cavalli."

  She folded her gloved neatly and sat them on the edge of the table before spreading her linen napkin upon her lap.

Gabriel bows his head then says. "I have something else planned after dinner. If you feel up for it."

She beamed at him with a bright smile as their drinks arrived,

  "That sounds wonderful." she reassured.

  She thanked the waiter for her drink before taking up her wine glass and pressing the rim of it to her lips for a small sip.

Gabriel takes his glass of water to sip lightly before placing it down.

  "Work has been good. Thankfully nothing quite as deadly as fighting for my life." he nods slowly.

She nodded as she listened to him speak, her kindly soft smile remaining as her hands rested softly folding before her atop of the table.

  "That is good to hear. You look rested and less stressed today." she commented, her blue orbs roving over his handsome features.

He shifts in his seat to take his glass of water again. He seems refined in this moment, though ultimately he was a soldier and a man of the sword. He inquires in a interested voice.

  "And you? What have you...been doing today?"

She considered it a moment before responding,

  "Well I did a spot of writing this morning... I was looking out the window and found some inspiration for literature. Afterwards I had some tea and took sometime to play the piano. Then I had some family business to tend to but after that I spent the remainder of my day resting up so that I could spend the evening with you." she admitted, her smile sheepish.

He tilts his head as he studies her closely.

  "I am glad you had a full day and a chance to rest." he nods to her as a particularly loud pop from the fire happens. He looks over to the fireplace to watch the licks of flame rise up and down.

She, too, turned her gaze to the fire, watching the flickering flames dance, casting it warmth and glow over the pair, adding to the comfortable ambiance. After a quiet moment, she spoke softly,

  "I wanted to thank you... for everything. You went through great lengths for tonight and I appreciate that. But I also wish for you to know... that its ok to be yourself, Mr. Cavalli. You are a dear friend and I care about you and wish to know more about your own preferences. I know we come from vastly different backgrounds... but that does not mean I do not appreciate you and yours. Please keep that in mind. Though pleasant, material things matter little... it is the experiences we share that helps us grow and shape who we are and who we become."

  She turned her gaze to him, glimmering sapphires in the fire light,

  " Please, if it proves too troublesome, I would prefer you to do what comes naturally and what is comfortable for you when we spend time together."

  She let a gentle, warm smile touch her lips, reassuring him that she didn't mind simply being in his company over fancy extravagances.

Gabriel listens to her gentle tune as she speaks and explains it to him. He bows his head then ays.

  "I wished to do this for you." he states before saying.

  "I am a man not afforded many opportunities to show someone a proper time and I wished to do this right."

Her sweet smile was genuine,

  "And I thank you greatly  for your generosity, Mr. Cavalli. I am already enjoying myself immensely." she reassured him before taking a savory sip from her wine.

He smiles then looks to his glass of water, half regretting it but as well he knew he needed to stick to his guns as it were. Soon the waiter comes over for them to order, Gabriel takes a very nice but simple dish.

She smiled in a friendly manner at the waiter, ordering an alfredo pasta dish. She thanked the man as he jotted down their orders and her attention returned to Gabriel,

  "So, Mr. Cavalli, how was your meeting with your nephew? It is not my place to pry but my curiosity unfortunately persists."

"We talked for a lengthy time and we gained an understanding of each other and recent events. I am actually surprised how well it went and the topics that were talked about"

  She offered him a happy smile,

  "That's great news. Family is important. Im happy the two of you were able to work things out for the better."

  She brushed aside a stray curl from her fair features as they sat together, enjoying the evening by the fire.

Gabriel looks at her then nods he speaks with his hands now, lightly gesturing.

  "It's...a good time of year for family reuniting I suppose. As Cliche as that may sound."

She simply nodded, her expression showing she heartily agreed with the sentiment.

  "Family is of the greatest importance. Blood is thicker than water as they say. For some, this is truer than for others. But I am most happy for you, Mr. Cavalli. I hope you only grow closer from here."

  She raised her wine glass in salute to him, "To family ties."

He picks up his glass of water to raise up in her salute. He sips his drink then sets it aside.

  "It's nice to have some good tidings this time of year"

"Yes, we all could you a bit of holiday cheer and good tidings. It is always a wonderful feeling when family comes together, especially this time of the year."

  She looked up as the waiter arrived with their meals, setting them down before the couple.

  "Thank you. It smells delicious." she cooed before taking another sip of her wine before taking up a fork.

Gabriel looks to the waiter then bows his head.

  " Thank you." he turns to his meal, he seemed quite hungry but with a gentlemanly reserve he eats slowly, clearly unused to all this properness and refined eating.

She waited until the waiter left to stifle a small giggle behind a hand,

  "Mr. Cavalli... You need not impress anyone. You must be as hungry as I am, please- no reservations."she insisted.

  "I want you to feel comfortable being yourself. After all, you are my friend."

  She twirled her fork about some fettucini on her plate and raised it to blow softly upon the steaming noodles before placing the bite in her mouth, savoring the creamy flavor.

Gabriel nods then lightly starts to eat, being polite but she would see he was quite hungry. From her angle she could see how much he enjoyed his meal.

She chuckled softly as she took note of his approval in his supper and followed suit, steadily working through her pasta with hungry gusto, enjoying every bite. She giggled quietly about a mouthful, speaking behind a napkin,

  "This is the best pasta I have ever had! It's delicious."

He looks at her then says.

  "It smells just as good as you say." he lightly sips his water then looks to her again.

  "Mine is very good as well."

A little smile came to her face and she took up a portion upon the prongs of her fork, twirling the noodles about the utensil before raising it, her other hand cupped underneath the bite incase any fell. She presented it to him across the table, offering him a bit, her smile sweet and insistent,

  "Here, try a bite. It's really good."

  Obviously, she wasn't going to take no for an answer.

Gabriel looks at her as she offers it to her. He leans over to take a bite from her offered food. He didn't want to offend her in the least. He leans back to chew the pasta with a small smile.

Her smile merely grew, watching him savor the morsel,

  "What do you think?" she implored, her free hand taking up her wine glass for a sip, blue eyes watching him from over the rim.

He chews it very well and swallows it before he says.

  "It's very good, I must admit I miss my...fathers cooks making it for me." he nods slowly then eats smiles at her finally, it was fleeting and sweet.

As they enjoyed dinner together, the ambiance was soothing and pleasant from the night sounds of insects and frogs to the crackle and pop of the logs in the fire place, the candles in the center of their table adding to the warm golden glow cast of the pair as they ate.

  "What's your favorite food?" she wondered curiously.

He looks at her then says. "I do enjoy pastas and flat breads. My range tastes are quite vast." he nods then says.

  "I enjoy a few canthan dishes." he nods as he looks at her. Giving her a chance to see his slightly softer face.

She returned his soft expression with one of her own, that warm, motherly air about her always prevalent regardless of her health.

  "I see. Do you like sweets at all?" She didn't really mean to ask so many questions but she wanted to learn more of her companion. She placed another fork full of paste into her mouth to chew while listening.

He thinks on this then says. "On occasion I do but due to my service I don't get too often to enjoy it. My niece, has an insatiable sweet tooth." he chuckles softly

She laughed as she nodded knowingly,

  "Oh yes- what young lady doesn't? If its not something chocolate then its something vanilla."

  She grinned, "I myself happen to be partial to anything peppermint." she admitted. She took another savory sip from her wine glass.

"Then for our second leg of our trip we will have to stop and get some peppermint sweets. " he nods slowly, storing this away mentally before he takes another bite of his food in a satisfied sigh

She chuckles quietly, soft and melodic as always,

  "Its alright, I'm perfectly content with dinner- I honestly don't think I will have room left after I'm finished!" she mused.

  She took another bite of her pasta, her meal almost finished.

"If you say so, I think the same. The portion was completely satisfactory and filling." he takes up his water to drink from it.

She nodded in agreement, pushing away her cleaned plate and dabbing at her red stained lips with the corner of her linen napkin,

  "I have to agree, the food here is wonderful and the atmosphere is very peaceful and relaxing. Thank you for the lovely dinner, Mr. Cavalli."She offered him a sweet, pretty smile as she reached for her wine to finish it.

"As soon as you want we can go on the last leg of our..date." he shifts to look at her. "Again if you get cold please tell me."

She dipped her chin after setting her empty glass down, smiling brightly at him.

  "I am ready if you are. I cant wait to see what else the evening has in store." she admitted shyly. She brushed aside her loose curls from her face.

He wipes his hands before standing and moving over to offer a gentle hand to her.

  "My lady." he bows his head again.

She gathered her gloves and hugged her shawl back about her shoulders before accepting his helping hand, a grateful smile on her lips as she rose to her heeled feet,

  "Thank you."

He held her hand delicately as he leads her back down to the main floor then to their carriage. Each step slow and controlled so he walked in step with her.

She was grateful for his aid as he guided her back to the carriage, hitching her skirt with her free hand as he aided her into the carriage with the other. Once settled comfortably, she slipped her gloves back upon her dainty hands to keep the chill at bay.

He steps up next to her, he leans forward and lifts the bench in front of them to reveal a little chest. He pulls out a blanket for her. He offers it to her then says.

  "You will need this, Lady Leoni."

She nodded, accepting the throw and draping it across her lap thankfully,

  "Oh thank you, Mr. Cavalli. You're most generous."

  She offered him a kindly smile. "Will it be cold where we are going next?" she implored curiously.

"We are going to take a little ride to outside the city to a small place...thats all I am going to say for now." he nods at her.

  His eyes attentively taking in her beauty.

She nodded her understanding though she took note of  the way he looked at her, a soft blush kissing her cheeks. Regardless she offered a shy smile to her handsome escort,

  "I look forward to the surprise, Mr. Cavalli."

He nods then leans over to the bench to pull out two small candy apples.

  "I didn't know what to get you, but I have these for later...or now if you wish."

"Oh! Those look delicious! Lets save them for later after our dinner has settled a bit more, shall we?" she offered, her blue pools settling on him with a bright delighted smile gracing her crimson lips.

He nods then sets them aside for later. He rests back then taps the side of the carriage and off they go! He looks at her after a moment then says.

  "I am enjoying the night."

"As am I. Spending time with you has always proven enjoyable and tonight is especially so. Thank you for taking me out this evening." she stated sweetly, her smile like honey and the sincerity in her deep sapphire blue orbs as she gazed back at him, settled back in her seat beside him comfortably.

Gabriel gives a small smile then says.

  "I am glad you are enjoying yourself Lady Leoni." he tips his head to her then says.

  "I am enjoying myself immensely."

She giggled melodically as the carriage rattled on along the road, proceeding out of the city walls, her curls and dangling chandelier earrings bobbing and swaying with the motion of the ride. She tucked the blanket more comfortably about her lap and rested the other end over Gabriels considerately.

  "Dont want you to get a chill, Mr. Cavalli." Her gentle visage looked to him sweetly.

He looks at her then says.

  "Thank you, I am quite use to it...but ...thank you." he lightly places a hand over hers reassuringly before keeping his hands politely on his lap.

  Her pleasant smile remained as she settled back snuggle beside him on the cushioned seat, a reasonable space between them as was appropriate for non lovers, her own hands folded neatly in her lap as her gaze shifted to the enjoy the view around them as the carriage rolled on.

Gabriel looks at her with a fleeting smile as the carriage arrives. He steps down then offers his hand to her patiently.

  "I will take you to the spot I have in mind."

She placed her dainty hand into his, so small and frail it seemed in comparison to his larger battle worn ones as he helped to ease her carefully out of the carriage, her feet touching upon soft green grass. She kept the blanket bundled in her free arm, her shawl still about her shoulders as her blue pools shifted to take in her surroundings,

  "Alright."

Gabriel looks to her as he helps her down. A small smile again forming, this time he keeps her delicate hand as he walks her up a incline up to a small wooden platform,on it there was a bench and a little telescope. He smiles as he looks up to the sky. This area was very good for stargazing. A very picturesque scene for a date.

As they crested the small hill, a soft breathless gasp slipped her red heart shaped lips, deep blue pools wide as she gazed in awe above them at the glittering night sky. Her hand gave his a soft squeeze, the other raising to her mouth in surprise,

  "Oh....Gabriel...." she managed softly, "Its... gorgeous...."

  She continued to admire the night sky, unable to look away it seemed, the starlight dancing in her robin hued orbs.

Gabriel smiles then slowly pulls her to the bench and the telescope.

  "We may sit here as long as you wish, Lady Leoni." he helps her sit, then he looks up at the sky as well. Quite pleased the clouds were not out.

She lowered to the bench, seated comfortably as her hands smoothed over her layered skirts to smooth them. The night was a bit nippy but not entirely unpleasant, the air still and the atmosphere serene with the ambiance of singing insects and frogs all around. She draped the throw across her lap and pulled her shawl tighter about her shoulders, her smile delighted and sweet.

  "This... is such a breathtaking sight....."

  She continued to admire the night sky with him, dazzled by the small diamond like glimmer of the stars so far above them. She recognized several constellations from books she had read in her youth as she sat there, beyond content in that moment.

  "Thank you... for bringing me to such an incredible place....." she murmured softly in wonder.

Gabriel smiles at her then nods. "You are quite welcome Lady Leoni." he looks to her as he offers her a candy apple.

  "Here." he smiles.

She smiled sweetly, gratefully accepting the candied apple from him,

  "Thank you."

  She giggled softly like a child, raising the treat to her red lips for a nibble, the candy coating hued like her lips. She sat in comfort and total ease, enjoying every moment of their evening together, blankets, candied apples, and star light.

Gabriel takes his own to eat quietly. He looks at her almost tenderly.

  "This is nice." he looks around then her again. she was the centerpiece of the amazing picture.

Her warm sweet smile remained as she enjoyed his company and the treat they shared, her gaze trained upwards at the sparkling sky. She pointed up to a constellation,

  "Theres the big dipper... and the little dipper...."

  Her smile grew as her gaze turned towards him, a soft blush appearing as she noted his tender visage aimed her way.

He looks up to where she pointed, he scans it then nods. "I remember those." he nods then says.

  "What is that one again?" he points off.

She looked off in the direction he was pointed, considering the constellation a moment, squinting a little before she brightened,

  "Oh! That one is known as Cassiopeia." she informed before taking another nibble of her candied apple, savoring the sweet juicy flavor of her treat.

Gabriel nods slowly then says. "I was never one to remember constellations other than a few for navigation." he looks back down to her then eats a bite of his apple.

She laughed softly, still all smiles.

  "I can only recall a few from a book I read a long time ago. Regardless though, the stars are beautiful tonight. So crystal clear... like diamonds on a dark blanket." she mused.

"I do like being able to see the stars...they are freeing to see." he shrugs then says. "Many more need to have that, something to make them feel free.”

"I agree completely, Mr. Cavalli."

  She turned her gaze to him thoughtfully.

  "Is this what makes you feel free?" she implored, genuinely curious as she took another nibble from her sweet treat, her other hand resting lightly over the blanket on her lap.

He thinks on this then shrugs.

  "It helps. Sometimes the city is so...high and oppressive. Stifling." he nods then holds his candy apple as he looks off to the sky.

She nodded lightly, "It is... I miss home. But I know when I go back... then I will miss the company. It may be silly, but it is true." She finished her candy apple and sat the stick aside, sighing softly as she relaxed, comfortable there upon the bench. She looked to him and patted the seat beside her,

  "Won't you join me?"

He looks down at her then nods. He moves to sit beside her as he looks at his apple.

  "I am sure, possibly letters to keep in touch?" he tilts his head.

She smiled at the thought, "They would certainly be letters I would look forward to." she promised.

  They sat there for a while, enjoying the moment and watching the stars when suddenly she pointed above them excitedly,

  "Oh look! A shooting star!" she placed her hands on his strong arm and gave a little shake playfully,

  "Well- go on, Mr, Cavalli- make a wish before its gone!" she insisted.

He blinks at this then contemplates a thought. "Uh...hm...oh okay." he nods  slowly then looks at her. ceriously.

She simply laughed, soft and melodic as she closed her eyes,

  "Hmm....Oh! I know what to wish for..." she fell silent as she made her wish and after a moment, her smile curled her crimson lips and her eyes blinked open again.

  "There. I hope it comes true."

He raises an eyebrow as he looks at her. "What...did you wish for?"

She tossed him a mock look of shock, gasping dramatically,

  "Mr. Cavalli!" she explained playfully. "I am afraid I can not tell you such things! Tis unlady like and it will not come true if I -did- tell you, kind Sir!"

  She laughed softly, clearly playing with him and she gave him a soft little nudge with her shoulder. Her smile persisted, sweet and warm as her gaze rose back to the sky and she scooted a bit closer to him upon the bench, just enough to dare to lean her head softly upon his shoulder in contentment, her hands resting daintily upon her lap.

Gabriel chuckles softly then nods at this, he reaches over to pat her hand lightly. "Then I am sorry, I did not mean to ask something improper of you."

She hummed softly, giggling a little,

  "I was merely teasing, Mr. Cavalli. You have been nothing but a pure gentleman since we first met." she reassured.

  Another little sigh escaped her as they enjoyed the stars together.

  "I think this may have become one of my favorite places away from home. The view is breath taking.So many beautiful stars...."

"I am glad I found it and decided to take you here." he keep his hand on her lap.

  "Still would like to know what it was...but I won't press it."

She simply smiled contently, hugging her shawl closer about her shoulders as the night grew a bit more chilly.

  "Perhaps I'll tell you sometime...." she offered.

  Her gloved hand moved to rest over his, still settled upon the blanket across her lap.

  "Thank you for the wonderful evening, Mr. Cavalli. I do believe this is the most fun I have had in a very long time." she admitted softly.

He nods then says. "I am glad...shall we go? it looks to be good chilly for you." he looks at her to try and see if she was shivering.

She lifted her head from his shoulder, giving a small, reluctant nod,

  "It is a bit nippy out.... But its so lovely and peaceful here... I'd hate to go. But if we must, than we must. It wouldn't do to catch a cold after all." she reasoned.

  Her lips were graced by another of her warm tender smiles as she gazed up at him.

He looks down at her then turns to offer to help her up. "I don't want you to have a cold at my expense."

She once more accepted his hand, letting him aid her to her feet. Her flashed him a sweet smile as she gazed up at him,

  "I'll be alright." she promised, "I hope you enjoyed yourself as much as I did this evening."

"I did enjoy myself Lady Leoni. Thank you for coming with me." he smiles just a moment before lightly leading her to the carriage.

Once again, she graciously accepted his aid in climbing into the carriage, folding the throw back across her lap once seated and comfortable, her gaze returning to her date as he climbed in beside her. Her smile was sweet and kindly as she brushed a red curl from her face.

He smiles then says. "I am glad I brought that blanket." he nods then taps the side of the carriage to get the man to slowly drive off.

As the carriage rattled off once again on the trek back to the reach, she scooted beside Gabriel and sat there comfortably, peeking up to offer him a sheepish smile as she hugged her shawl tighter about her shoulders,

  "I ... hope you dont mind. It is proving to get a bit more chilly now and you are rather warm."

  A rosy hint tinted her fair complexion, her porcelain like skin flawless and soft, soulful blue eyes alight with warmth as she lowered her gaze to her lap.

He shifts to pull off his warm jacket to place around her then lightly rubs her arm with a delicate hand.

  "There..." he doesn't seem to mind her proximity to him as he looks down to her.

She seemed to instantly melt as the warmth of his jacket developed her, snuggling into it contently with a little sigh as he rubbed her arm. Her cheeks grew more rosy, enjoying the scent left behind in his coat and the way he treated her so kindly.

  "Thank you.... You are very sweet." she murmured softly.

  Her eyes blinked open to look back to him with a concerned pout, "But I do not wish for you to be cold as well, Mr. Cavalli....."

"I am quite use to cold nights." he blinks as he thinks on his words, and the implications. He continues to lightly rub her arm as he delicately warms her up.

  "I am fine." now that his coat was off she could see he wore a nice shirt and tie. The outline of his toned body and arm muscles quite evident.

Her blush remained, soft but constant even though she offered a nod at his words. "If... you are certain...."

  She offered him a little smile, trying hard not to openly stare for it was rude and unlady like. Regardless however, she could not deny her companion was dashingly handsome with a rugged charm, his manners both gentlemanly yet stern with a soldiers air.

It was an appealing blend and even as these thoughts occurred to her out of the blue, she felt mildly embarrassed at the unlady like train of thought of her companion, telling herself it was simply a date between close friends, doubting he thought of her as anything else. Despite this, her shy smile retained its warm and gentle manner as she sat nestled beside him for warmth as the carriage drew into the city limits.

Gabriel looks off after a moment, contemplating the night. He hoped he didn't do anything improper and wished to not give her the wrong air. He just simply hugs her gently to keep her warm.

  "What is a dream you have?" he asks as he looks to her

She looked surprised by the sudden question, "A dream...?"

  She paused to consider it, thinking it over  as he regarded her,

  "Well... I have... Well- its silly." she admitted, laughing softly to herself.

  "I... have two dreams... One, I have always wanted to be a writer. I love to read and I take enjoyment in the little bit of writing I do partake in even if it is of my own thoughts rather than any actual fiction." She grew sheepish as she continued,

  "But... my main dream is... well... I have... I have always wanted to be a mother. I love children. But... well... I don't think I will ever get the opportunity." she admitted sadly.

  For the first time a glimmer of sorrow crossed her gentle visage. She hastily shook the notion away, attempting to cover with a small laugh,

  "But it is alright, I am afraid I'm quite awful in regards to romance. With my health and family duties... well, I have never been so close to anyone before. I have never even kissed a man before."

  She blinked, blushing deeply, face almost as red as her hair as she stammered in embarrassment,

  "I-I mean... I- oh dear, how unlady like of me! Please pardon my bluntness." She placed a gloved hand over her mouth to try and hide her embarrassment.

  "T-to be perfectly candid...Mr. Cavalli... this is the first date I have even been upon." she admitted at length, her gaze trained on her lap.

He blinks at her admission at the date. He frowns then lightly rubs her arm more before squeezing her lightly.

  "Then I must apologize if it isn't proper and how you wished it to be." he looks down at her with a honestly worried look.

She blinked before shaking her head swiftly,

  "Oh! No-no Gabriel- I promise you have done nothing indecent in the least." she reassured honestly. Her features softened despite her blush, her smile warm and reassuring,

  "You have been nothing but wonderful to me and I have enjoyed our time together immensely. I... I am happy you asked me and I am so glad we got to spend this time together."

  She paused and peeked up at him shyly, "P-perhaps... th-there may be more to come...? D-dates I mean...."

  There was a hopeful hint to her melodic voice though she tried her best to remain proper and avoid sounding needy in anyway. "I greatly enjoy being in your company, Mr. Cavalli."

He pauses to think on this then says.

  "We have the winter ball coming up..." he muses to her as he contemplates this, as much as he liked her he knew he wasn't sure if he was right fit for her being a proper noble lady, and him far from it.

She dipped her chin lightly, a small smile touching her lips. "I do look forward to it. It sounds wonderful." At last, she gazed up at him imploringly, "What of you? What dreams do you have?"

Gabriel looks off to the distance as he contemplates this.

  "Suppose that question's answer changes from week to week and day to day...overall I dream about having a safe place for my Niece to grow and have a family of her own..."

She smiled was soft and understanding,

  "That is a lovely dream. I am sure Tessa will grow up and find a loving husband and have a beautiful family of her own." she reassured, giving his hand a soft squeeze.

  She remained nestled in his warm coat, content and comfortable as he continued to rub her arm to help keep her warm as she carriage rolled along the cobblestone streets towards the Ossan district.

He looks down to her. "That is my hope and dream. For her to be happy." he looks almost tender in that moment as he lightly rubs her arm.

  "Sorry..." he quirks a brow then looks to the driver.

She canted her head at him in curiosity, "Sorry for what?" she wondered, blue eyes trained upon him as he looked to the driver as they drew nearer to the Leoni Townhouse.

Gabriel leans forward then says. "Driver take a right." that lead away from the Leoni house, giving them a good few more minutes.

  "I didn't mean to ask such a personal question."

She blinked has the direction was given to divert away from their destination, her features not both confused and curious.

  "It's perfectly alright, no harm done. I... I am actually happy you asked.....But... we missed the turn....." she began but trailed off, still nestled in his warm coat as her imploring blue pools shifted back up towards him, roaming his handsome features inquisitively.

"Did we? Oh...huh." his little plan of spending a bit more time with her working out perfectly.

  "I am sure he can take us back to the proper road. "he looks to her."

She nodded lightly, glancing about at their surroundings. She really didn't mind. She was glad for the extra time with him. As the carriage continued to roll on, her curls bouncing softly from the motion of their travel, her gaze returned to Gabriel and she offered him a gentle smile.

  "Yes, its no concern." she reassured.

"Now...since we have a little bit of time before you are home..." he thinks of a topic to talk about. "Have you enjoyed yourself in the Reach?"

She laughed softly but dipped her chin in a slight nod, "I have. For the most part. But I suppose every place has their share of rude individuals. It can't be helped. But yes, for the most part, I have greatly enjoyed my time here."

"I am glad you have. This district is very much better with you here." he nods at this. His arm still around her to keep her warm.

She nestled closer against his side without realizing it, enjoying the pleasant warmth and comfort he offered. Her smile was warm and her fair delicate features were aglow with a soft rosy hue.

  "You are very sweet, Mr. Cavalli. Thank you. You have helped in making my stay in the city most pleasant." she admitted.

"You are welcome, Lady Leoni." he lightly squeezes her shoulder then looks down ot her. "It's been very pleasant." he nods as he studies her.

Her deep blue eyes rose to meet his gaze, noting him taking a moment to consider her. She watched him quietly, wondering what was on his mind. At length, she implored softly,

  "Is... something the matter, Mr. Cavalli....?" Her gaze searched his, expression quizzical.

Gabriel looks at her for a long moment before he says in a nice voice. "You have pretty eyes, Miss Leoni." his compliment honest and innocent.

A blush touched her cheeks, darkening slightly, blinking in surprise, long lashes fluttering as she did so. She looked bashful,

  "D-do I...?" She smiled shyly, lowering her gaze from him to her lap, flattered, "Thank you. You are most kind to say so."

  Her laugh was soft and sheepish. "But... I do admit that I am quite fond of yours as well...."

He tilts his head slightly then says. "Mine?" he looks to the driver then her. A curious air about him as he studies her actions. Trying to see if he did anything improper.

She gave a quiet melodic laugh, embarrassed but nodding all the same. Her gaze lifted to his once more, her demeanor and visage showing she took absolutely no offense whatsoever or was even bothered but more flattered, her cheeks still warm and rosy.

  "Yes. You have a warmth to your gaze I find... rather agreeable. Its a good thing, I assure you."

  Her crimson lips were graced by that sweet smile once more, her deep sapphire pools fixed upon him, his arm about her hugging her close enough he could smell the soft sweet floral scent of her perfume tinged with a hint of peppermint which always seemed to linger about her, fragranced or not.

  "I... am deeply flattered by your compliment. Thank you."

Gabriel dips his head in response. He says softly.

  "Lady Leoni, you honor me with your words." he does indeed notice the smell, he likes it, it's exemplary of her personality quite well. He looks around not to gauge where they are, again nearing her house.

She looked satisfied with his response, her smile pleasant and soft. Her gaze shifted to their surroundings as they rounded a corner, carriage rattling along the cobblestones as they moved along the road towards her townhouse. She settled comfortably against his side, enjoying his warmth and comfort while she still could, snuggly cuddled in his coat which smelt of lightly of him, pleasant and soothing.

Gabriel just sits in silence, just enjoying the contact and her being there. He missed spending time with people like this, though he knew he would have to talk to her about how he felt. He wanted to be friends with her, at least, he wasn't in a great position at the time to do a full courtship as he suspected she was accustomed to.

As the carriage rolled up to her home and halted, she straightened, to sit up properly, slipping his coat from her shoulders and folding it neatly before offering it back to him, now with a lingering scent of her own upon it. She smiled at him sweetly,

  "Thank you for your kindness."

Gabriel nods, he takes the coat to put it back on before moving to offer his hands to her to help her down.

  "You are most welcome, Lady Leoni."

She accepted his hand as he aided her in her descent from the carriage, heeled feet touching the ground. She hugged her shawl about her shoulders with her free hand, offering him a grateful smile as they moved up the steps to the front door. She turned to face him, features warm and happy,

  "Thank you for a lovely evening, Mr. Cavalli. I enjoyed myself immensely. You are most generous and very sweet."

Gabriel bows to her deeply. "It was my pleasure and honor, lady Leoni. I hope to hear from you again." he waits for her to step into the house.

She smiled, dipping her chin in a nod. "I hope you have a good evening. Sweet dreams, Mr. Cavalli." she offered softly, turning to open her door.

  Tea Time

Gabriel steps up to the Leoni household. He lightly raps on the door then steps back to look at the door. THe day was nicer, sunny this time and less wind. Surprisingly warm in the sun but chilly in the shade. He was dressed in his typical nice outfit, practical and not flashy but suiting.

A maid came to the door, dressed in black and white, a young woman in her late 20s. She offered Gabriel a warm smile,

  "May I help you, Sir?" she implored, her sandy locks pulled back in a high ponytail.

He bows to her. "Ma'am, I am here to inquire if Lady Ellenia Leoni is receiving gusts today?"

  He slips his hands behind his back as he bows to the maid. Being respectful but he still cannot hide his stern expression.

The maid nodded, stepping aside to let him enter the town house,

  "Of course. Please have a seat in the foyer while I inform her of your presence." she beckoned, showing him inside.

  The town house was comfortable and cozy, a lit hearth adding to the atmosphere of comfort, the furnishings comprised of hand carved wooden furniture and plush upholstery, not overly rich and elegant but modest yet inviting. The young maid showed him to the sitting room before moving up the stairs to fetch the Lady of the household.

Gabriel steps into the house to walk with the maid to the area she requested him to stay. Staying standing he surveys the area, keeping his hands to himself as he waits and watches.

He didn't wait long as Ellenia slowly made her way down the steps, the day's chosen gown as always well fitted and made of fine materials, a knitted shawl about her shoulders and a bonnet cap upon her head, a few stray crimson curls peaking out from under it. She looked tired and drained but a spark of life came to her robin hued orbs as she saw Gabriel there waiting, her red lips curling with her warm smile,

  "Oh, Mr. Cavalli! What a pleasant surprise!"

  The maid helped her down the steps before moving off to fetch some tea for the Lady and her guest.

  "I hope you are well?" she asked, drawing closer to him.

He nods then says. "I am, infact I have come to see how you were doing, Lady Leoni. You looked a little bit tired when we last talked so I hoped to inquire personally if you were feeling better."

She looked touched by his concern, her delicate features softened with gratefulness as she rested a frail looking dainty hand upon his, her skin cool to the touch as usual,

  "You are most kind, Mr. Cavalli. I assure you, I am feeling well. You concern for my well being has touched me, I do appreciate it."

  She offered him a smile as the maid returned with a tray, a steaming tea pot and a pair of teacups with a tiny bowl of sugar cubes and a cream boat.

  "Tea for you and your guest, My Lady." she said politely and placing the tray on a near by table.

  Ellenia thanked her kindly and the maid was dismissed, leaving the pair to visit in the foyer before the hearth.

  "Please, help yourself to some tea." she offered, lowering herself into a lavishly cushioned chair.

He pulls out his seat and waits for her to sit before he sits down.

  "Tea...hmm..." he shifts a bit then reaches out to offer to pour her the tea.

  "Thank you for giving me your time."

She offered him a thankful smile as he served her first, his gentlemanly way always striking her as sweet and kindly.

  " If you wish for something other than tea, it can be arranged, Mr. Cavalli." she offered.

  She crossed a leg over the other beneath the thick layers of her layered skirts, hands resting delicately in her lap. "And of course, you are always welcome here. In fact, I am most happy to receive a visit from you today." she admitted, accepting her tea from him, "Thank you."

He pours himself after pouring her cup.

  "Sugar?" he perks a brow as he looks to her.

  "Thank you, I thought...well since it's a rare day to myself I would take it visiting someone."

She flashed him a sweet smile,

  "One, please." and once the sugar cube was placed in her cup, she stirred it lightly with a little sliver spoon,

  "And I'm happy you decided to visit me of all people. I admit, I do feel rather special today." she laughed softly.

  "You certainly brightened my day, Mr. Cavalli.Thank you."

  She let her robin hued pools rove over her house guest as they enjoyed tea together, the warm glow from the hearth flickering over them and the room, her knitted shawl draped snuggly about her shoulders.

Gabriel looks to her and bows his head.

  "Thank you...that is good." he shifts slightly, unsure how to respond to that but he sips his tea lightly. He frowns then plops two sugar cubes into it before he says.

  "I hope you feel better today as well."

A pleasant smile touched her lips as she sipped from her tea,

  "I do, and the good company has me feeling even better already. I dont often get visitors so its a nice change."

  She took another slow savory sip from her tea cup before addressing him again,

  "What else do you have planned for your day?"

He hesitates then looks down to his tea. "Visiting my nephew...I am not even sure he wll want to see me but i thought i might as well try."

He regarded him curiously, her head canted to the side lightly,

  "Oh...? Are you... not on good terms with one another? Forgive me, its not my place to pry...."

  She took a slow savory sip of her tea though she continued to consider him inquisitively.

He looks at her a moment then says.

  "I have not had contact with him very much other than a few times when my niece wanted to see him." he looks to his cup again, watching the cubs melt into the warm liquid.

She nodded slowly in understanding,

  "I see. I hope it all works out for you." she stated softly, her gaze focused on the warm flickering flames of the hearth.

  "How is the weather outside this day? It doesn't seem as windy as it was the other day at least."

"Sunny, for once." he nods a few times before he sips his tea. "Was pleasant walk over here, though a bit chilly in the shade."

She nodded softly as she listened, her gaze shifting towards a curtained window, beyond the trees shifted faintly for the light breeze and the sun was certainly out and shining, a pleasant change from the overcast days they had been seeing the past week.

  "I see. That's good news. I hope the day remains pleasant."

  She looked to Gabriel then, her expression warm and friendly as always, "How is your niece? I don't think you ever told me her name...."

He looks at her as he speaks.

  "Her name is Tessa, or thats what she wants everyone to call her." he chuckles then sets his tea aside.

  "She is doing very well. She is out being with her friends and most likely causing mischief.

A soft laugh drifted past deep red lips as she smiled knowingly,

  "Ah, yes... the lives of teenagers. Teenage girls at that... My younger sister Sasha and my niece Naomin are both... quite rambunctious young ladies with minds of their own and their own ideas about authority. But they are good girls and they mean well. Wisdom comes with age, so they say, and life is full of lessons to be learned but only if you have the courage to go out and live it." she reasoned before enjoying another sip of her tea.

He nods with a bit of a sigh.

  "Yes...Sometimes it takes all my strength to keep up with he...and the latest trends and things...Life is also dangerous if you let them explore all facets of life."

She nodded in agreement,

  "Oh yes. Though I trust them to make the right decisions, it never hurts to remind them from time to time that you are there for them, watching and looking out for their well being. They may not always appreciate it at first but when they need you and you're there, it makes all the difference. I wish I had their energy." she mused with a soft chuckle.

He nods slowly then says. "They seem like fine young woman." he picks up his tea to sip from. His eyes moving around the room as he quietly drinks the heated liquid

A dip of her chin showed her agreement as she sipped upon her tea before looking back to him. "When will you be seeing your nephew?"

He shifts a bit to look at her then shrugs slowly. "I was thinking after we finished with our tea. or later in the afternoon."

"I see. Is there anything else I can get you? Something to eat perhaps?" she implored, looking to her guest as the fire crackled and popped in the hearth, adding a nice ambiance to the warm and cozy atmosphere.

He thinks on this then shakes his head. "I ate a large breakfast. For once." he nods then looks at her, he thinks on something then says in a reluctant voice. "Um...so, there is an event coming up."

She finished another savory sip before lowering the tea cup back to its saucer in her lap, her gaze turning back to him as he spoke.

  "Oh? What sort of event? Will it be held at the cultural center?" she wondered, still having yet to see an event happen there.

He shakes his head then says.

  "It's the annual seraph charity ball." he purses his lips a moment before asking.

  "I was wondering if you would like to take the evening and go with me?"

She blinked, surprised, a hint of a rosy glow in her fair complexion.

  "O-oh!" A genuinely sweet and happy smile touched her lips as she gave a soft giggle, "That sounds rather lovely, actually. I would be honored to attend with you, Mr. Cavalli." she agreed, gentle features delighted he had asked her.

He dips his head then says. "I hoped you might." he pauses, hoping she didn't read into it too terribly much. He continues with.

  "I know it was announced but I am not yet received a flier on when and where this year." he looks to her then says. "So, sooner to the day I will try and keep you informed."

She offered him a warm, pretty smile,

  "I look forward to it, Mr. Cavalli. It sounds like it will be fun." She finished her tea and sat the cup and its saucer aside back upon the tray.

  "I admit I dont often get to attend balls outside of family functions. This will prove interesting."

He nods as he looks to her.

  "Then I am happy I asked." he sets his tea aside as well. His eye goes to the sugar cube but then to her. "I will attempt to update you in advance before the day of it."

She nods towards him in understanding,

  "Very well. I admit I'm quite excited." she chuckled quietly.

  She noted he sat his cup aside and and turned her blue pools back towards him, "Will you be departing, then?"

He hesitates then says. "I wasn't planning on it...but I do not want to take up more of your time. Lady Leoni."

She moved to slowly rise to her feet, turning to regard him,

  "You are always more than welcome to visit with me, Mr. Cavalli. I value your company and find joy when you visit. It's nice not feeling so alone, especially in a large empty house." she reassured him, resting a frail looking hand upon his arm.

  "You are a very dear friend and I look forward to your visits."

  Her smile was warm and sweet. "Come, I'll accompany you to the door." she offered.

Gabriel nods then stands up quietly. "Thank you very much for the tea." he lightly steps beside her as he lightly walks with her to the door. He gives a small appreciative smile.

She retained her pleasantly warm demeanor as she moved with him towards the door, her pace slow but steady, a bit wobble without her cane, but she managed all the same. She stood with him by the threshold as she turned to face him,

  "I hope everything goes well with your visit with your nephew."

He quietly walks with her, not sure what to say now but once she spoke he nods a little then says.

  "Thank you. I am...hoping...it will." he looks at her eyes for a moment then to the door. "Thank you Lady Leoni for walking me here."

Her kindly smile remained, always smiling it seems, so worldly and warm for one always so ill. Regardless, she nodded to him,

  "Of course. I hope you have a nice day, Mr. Cavalli." She watched him as the door opened, letting in a bit of the nippy outside air,

  "I hope we see one another again soon."