Percy gave a formal bow and watched them all start to filter by. He was ready to take hold of Tony, if Tony started to follow. Percy needed to discretely make sure Tony stayed behind.
Tony sensed that maybe Percy would like to keep the conversation private, so he bowed his farewell to the prince and nodded to Marguerite as they passed. Not wanting to press the issue, Tony watched them leave, and busied himself by surveying the crowd, and picking at a bothersome thread protruding from his waistcoat.
When the last shadow down the long hallway disappeared from view, Percy moved away from Tony and peeked his head in quickly to the four small adjourning rooms off the foyer. Nothing to hide behind, he saw no one and knew they both were well alone.
Speaking quickly and quietly, Percy moved Tony away from the main Foyer and stood him in the receiving room. "Tell me Tony, what is your take on this whole "Revolutionary" thing going on in France."
His question surprised Tony a great deal, since he was expecting something a little more.. personal. Though, the question still hit something in him, and his face became a darker shade of red. He chose his words carefully. "Well, its no box of candy for sure. I don’t think that any Englishman in his right mind would approve of such atrocities. Maybe the revolution started out as a noble enterprise, but its now being used as a.." He clenched his fist and turned slightly away from Percy, so as to not make eye contact. "an EXCUSE for revenge. Things that happened years ago are now being brought forth, and the entire family of the convicted are brought down on the guillotine." With sudden anger, he turned to Percy, fury flashing in his eyes. "Its not RIGHT Percy! And there’s nothing we can do.."
A smile grew inside the man known as Percy Blakeney. Seeing Tony's heated words and honest expression, any doubts that this should be taking place in this exact moment were erased.
"You're a sporting man, aren't you Tony? I've seen you lose at cards, betting a lot of money even against me. I've also heard you like to partake in those wild hunts on horseback, no?" Percy watched Tony. The lazy expression in his eyes remained. The languidness to his voice was kept in check. He did not act any different now than he would have if they had been discussing the best dressed man in the room.
Tony nodded, but remained silent, wondering where the conversation was going.
The only difference was, Percy had a hurriedness about him. He knew his time alone with Tony would be noticed if he took more than a few minutes. So he rushed himself, as dully as possible, choosing his plan of attack wisely by evading any true involvement of himself.
"You've heard rumors of a few of the French Aristocrats making their way free out of France, haven't you Tony old boy? I have it on good authority that there is one man making these attempts possible, and this man does indeed exist. I heard that this man is English and seeks out help from dull foppish fools like us, as Madame Guillotine becomes hungrier and hungrier every day. When I thought about joining this life endangering venture, for some demmed reason I just thought I might want to bring you along to meet this secret man."
An interest sparked in him, but he kept it there for a moment wondering exactly what he should think. Was it true that he could actually make a difference? It sounded appealing. Adventure and danger were no strangers to him. They were even things that he craved. He wondered where Percy discovered this information, but Percy would never lie to him, so he took it on good authority that it was true. That there was in fact, a man making hope a possibility for those who needed it most. Tony took a deep breath, and looked up at Percy with a glint in his eyes. "Then I shall be at your side! Tell me about this man."
Percy was very happy at Tony's response. He needed to keep this short... and slowly led Tony back towards the main dinning hall. He did go at a very slow pace. There still was a few more things to say and at a faster pace than his feet, Percy's mouth moved.
"Understand Tony that your life will be risked. This rogue of a man has already freed over a dozen aristocrats and has done it all undercover, alone. No one in France knows who he is, or if yet he even exists. But soon they all will know about him, for if he gets the rising force of men, he will warn the French of his presence.
"You can feel confident that you can follow him and his ideas. They are the swiftest of actions and the smartest of plans. You could die, but we all must die sometimes, yes? And Tony, the rogue insists that any that join him speak nothing to the others. Do you pledge yourself and wish to know who this daring rogue of a man is Tony?"
Walking along with Percy, Tony was never more sure about what he must do, and even the cost at stake. He nodded grimly. "Yes, Percy. I understand the risk, but it is a risk I must take then. There is no going back now. I know what I must do, and it must be done." He was deep in thought, and paid no attention to where he was going. Suddenly, he tripped slightly, over his own two feet, and remembered that he was indeed, walking. A thought came to his mind. "When do we plan on meeting him?"
He listened to Tony take it all in. "You're a good man Dewhurst." Percy looked down and patted him on the back, almost causing the man to trip. The languid look that usually accompanied his eyes disappeared. Percy took on the stringent look of a leader and his whole body seemed to come alive to match the intensity and urgency in his voice. They were nearing closer to the dining hall and Percy took a hold of Tony's arm, stopping him completely. "Unbeknownst to him, Lord Andrew has already started helping this noble cause. I can only stress the importance that no one knows about this, no one other than whom we know is of us... that mean no girls, wives, and especially no Marguerite." Percy added emphasis on those last three words. He needed to make it clear that his wife was in no way to catch wind of his doings.
Sir Percy offered no explanation as to why he would keep his bride in the dark, as his churning mind slipped into talking in quick thoughts and ideas on these matters. "We will meet later tonight. I am going to ask Lord Hastings and Lord Frederick to meet with us and I will give you all the details. We need to be discrete and pretend to be playing cards. I have not quite schemed up how we will avoid His Royal Highness, but it must happen." Percy glanced up and saw up ahead servants walking into the main dinning hall with the orange-sauced goose. Percy made his eyes fall back into laziness and he smiled at Tony.
"Oh, and so you know old boy, you have already met the man. The rogue is I." Percy turned and casually sauntered into the dining hall, leaving Lord Anthony to stand there. The Baronet smiled inside, always playing a good game and keeping one step ahead of the others. Percy was going to enjoy watching Tony's composure during dinner.
As Percy walked away, Tony's face went completely white and his mouth gaped. Percy? He would have never suspected.. A bit of relief came over him now that he KNEW who the leader was. Tony had no doubts about Percy's ability as a leader, but.. but.. Tony couldn’t think, the shock of the situation completely enveloped his mind, and would not allow his thoughts to go any further. He made his way into dining hall, and sat mechanically, staring at nothing in particular as he was deep in thought.
Percy entered the dinning hall with more of a smile on his languid face than he had had all evening. Lord Tony was about as positively responsive as a person could be and the whole affair took less than five minutes to do. His mind started clicking and plotting and when he came in, he did not even make any sort of hosts speech but sat right down.
Catching an odd glance or two, Sir Percy moved his arms about, the lace sleeve ends waving around. "I do not know about you all, but I'm simply famished! These geese were shot by fine London hunters and by jove! They have done a most remarkable job!" Percy smiled at them all and let out his gay laugh, tossing his chin up and easing into his foppish mask most comfortably.
Marguerite's eyes lit up as she saw Percy enter the room from the opposite side of the dinning hall. "Percy, I'm so glad you could join us at our own ball. Had you stayed away much longer you might have lost me to this charming gentleman who had escort me in. Fortunately I do not have to chase away the lovely ladies he previously had on his arms." Marguerite gave the Prince, seated on the other side of Percy, a smile and a slight nod. She was beginning to relax and enjoy the evening. She began to scan the room to look for Armand and Alexia.
George nodded back, delighted that Marguerite was finally relaxing around him. Most likely he would seeing a lot of Percy now that he was home and he did not want to make his wife jumpy whenever he walked in the door. Not that he minded her getting so flustered, but it would become rather tedious if it occurred all the time. And yes, his two young companions had disappeared-trailing after Hastings no doubt. But it was never long before another flock came to join in his conversation so that situation would remedy itself after dinner.
"I do say, aren't you the clever one?" Percy smiled at Marguerite and then turned his head towards the Prince. "Your Highness, is she a witty and pretty thing or am I not a lowly Baronet?" Percy leaned back in his chair and gave his laugh again, glancing around the room. He noticed Tony coming in looking rather solemnly. The smile brooded across the host's face and he nodded to the servants, who began bringing about the courses for the meal as the wine was now all poured.
Percy grabbed his glass and lifted it high. "I declare a toast in honor or our future King: His Royal Highness, Prince of Wales! Who has graciously blessed the humble abode of my lair here in Richmond this evening. And! Who has canterly enough, HA! Already charmed my wife into wanting to denounce our marriage!" Percy brought the glass to his torso and winked at the Prince.
"To your good health Sire."
"Thank you Percy. And I would like to wish you and Lady Blakeney a glorious future together as newly wedded husband and wife. Which occurred only because she hadn't met me first, I'm sure. Although I'm sorry to say it might not have worked out between us Marguerite my dear-you would outshine me in all your splendor and THAT I could not have." Grinning wildly, he continued. "But I digress. For hosting such a lovely party in this great home of yours-I thank you. For having the good taste to marry such a woman-I salute you. And for dressing almost as well as I-I praise you for you effort." And being in good humor, the Prince winked right back at Percy and with that, sat down to the delicious dinner.
As the plates were filled and wine was poured, the guests chatted merrily. Turning to his sister, Armand asked, "How are you feeling, Marguerite?" She seemed relaxed, but he just decided to ask anyway.
"Oh Armand, I'm so glad you're here." Marguerite smiled, truly enjoying herself, " Before I thought I overheard one of the servants saying that you might not attend tonight. What would make him say such a thing?"
"Oh, I suppose he thought that because I left for a walk mere minutes from when it was to start. He seemed to be questioning me, and I was angry, so I shouted that maybe I wasn't going to go to the ball, anyway. Silly of me... of course I would be here, Margot. But it is fortunate that I did leave for that walk... I would not have had the pleasure of reacquainting myself with Mademoiselle Axelia here." Armand turned to Axelia, to see if she had heard what he had said. He meant every word of it, of course. He could not read what she was thinking in her eyes though. Not this time.
"Well, I'm glad you did not leave me, but please, you must remember your manners here in Percy's home. Now look at this dinner, do you ever remember seeing such an delicious feast Armand?" Marguerite paused, she did remember.
Shortly after they meet, on a warm night in late August, an older man named Armand took her to a restaurant, a place frequented by many of the upper and privileged class. They did not fit it, they did not belong to such a group, but he insisted. The other patrons were no better then they were, so why shouldn't they eat as well as the rich do. The rich stared - many knew her as an actress and no doubt they all knew, and many feared, her escort.
But that night she felt like a princess. No one had ever treated her the way he did then. During the days they had known each other they spent much time together. At the salons they attended or she hosted he stimulated her mind, challenged her ideas and her beliefs. He encouraged her presence at rallies for the people and demonstrations, and often introducer her to power members of France's new Republic.
But that night he worshipped her. His deep, penetrating eyes looked deep into hers in the candlelight. He spoke of her beauty and more then once he placed gentle kisses on her hand, her arm, her neck . . . Hidden in a table in the corner, he would stroke her cheek with his strong firm hand and gently touch her hair. He made her heart change from complete stop to a racing pulse.
That night, she took a lover.
Marguerite forced herself back to reality and turned to Percy, "Percy dear," she said as she looked at the plates of goose coming out for the guests, "are there any of these poor creatures left in the country after such a massive hunt?"
Percy had been listening to the back and forth conversations of the group. Armand and his new lady friend. Percy nodded to her, sensing her discomfort and reading her body language. He had gotten really good at that over the years. Each move a person made, or failed to make, said more than words. His eyes glanced over at the quiet Tony.
He watched the Prince flirt some more with his wife. Percy took the second blow of the evening at being called a fool. He wondered what his new wife would think of him allowing everyone around to call him this. It pleased Percy as much as it bothered him. He should be able to do as he pleased and be who he grew into, yet stubbornness of the mind had a greater control.
Instead, he foppishly glanced about the table, laughing insanely and adding his foolish remarks where he could insert them. Hearing Marguerite, Percy slapped his leg and made himself nearly fall backwards out of his chair.
"Massive hunt?! Lady Blakeney! This? This is merely a few hours out for Hastings!" He glanced over at Hastings. "Do tell us about your love for hunting Hastings, and I do say, I am NOT speaking of your sought after creatures with two legs!"
Sir Percy slapped his leg again as if he just told the funniest thing. He glanced at Marguerite, opened his mouth wide and giggled. Laughing inside at being called a fool all the time by nearly everyone he knew. Laughing inside at the shock he would be giving a few of these blokes in a few hours. Laughing for he alone had already saved lives while they could only stand idly by, and think they could do nothing.
Outwardly, the damn fool seemed to be laughing at thin air.
For part of the dinner, Percy interjected with quick quirps followed by his hyena of a laugh, and for the other part, he said absolutely nothing at all. Leaning back in his seat, the Baronet glanced around with the inherent lazy look in his eyes, uninterested in anything. Sir Percy would close his eyes and turn his head and yawn, as he was still deprived from many hours sleep.
A way of life is just that. Percy could not help but find himself watching Alexia and Tony the most that evening. Tony's actions had been expected, but Armand's little nervous friend? Who was she? Percy liked the whimsical air headedness viewed about him, so he never introduced or asked to be so. Marguerite had asked him persistently in her new home, so he did then, but he never made it a habit. The more things he was relaxed upon, the less anyone would suspect a thought to run through his head. Save fashion and money of course.
His life was to listen and learn. Glancing over at Hastings and the ladies the Prince brought, he tried to come up with an acceptable plan on how he was going to steal a few moments away with Frederick, Hastings and Tony. Percy played with his napkin and waved it slightly in front of him in a bored manner. With the wave of the napkin, he wiped the thought from his mind of hatching a plan.
Like most everything he did, he would improv it when the time came. Those usually worked out best.
After finally recovering from the initial shock of the past occurrences, Tony began to fill with pride. He felt more than honored that Percy would chose him to help out. Not only that, but Percy had come to him first! The aspect of the whole idea was electric, and filled him with a new energy. He looked up to catch Percy's eye, and smiled a broad grin.. a grin that no one but Percy would understand.
Percy watched Tony from across the long dinning table give his grin as Tony's mind seemed to accept the challenge. There was never any doubt in Percy's head about Tony... or Andrew for that matter. Andrew! Poor fellow didn't even have the pleasure of knowing what he was doing, but did it anyway. It was that type of blind loyalty that Percy felt would make this work.
Marguerite smiled as the group finished their dinner. The prince, as Marguerite was finding out, was indeed a very charming and friendly man, and combined with Percy's fresh attitude towards her allowed her to once more feel at ease and be herself. As guests began finishing and milling about, Marguerite could hear the musicians begin to play in the next room. "Percy," she inquired, "would the bridegroom care to share a dance with is new bride?"
He smiled at Marguerite in his gentlemen like manner and offered her his arm. "Better have at it, or old George will definitely do me up, Ha!" Percy led his bride to the dance floor and smiled down at her. He slipped his hand gently around her waist and took her right hand in his left.
Percy glanced over at Thomas and Thomas cued the conductor to begin. All at once, the music from Percy's favorite opera began: Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro. They played the dance sequence only from part of the opera, and it was a beautiful choice on Sir Percy's part.
Knowing he had to get through this part of the evening, Percy allowed himself to enjoy it as much as possible. He had slipped back into quietness once more. Leading Marguerite around for the first dance, his dull blue eyes would come to life every now and then, catching the candle glow off her cheek or dress.
Marguerite smiled and gave a coy giggle as Percy lead her in the dance. To her it felt so good to be held by him again. She had begun to ignore the looks of the curious English aristocrats, some of which probably did not know what to think of her, of course Marguerite had not yet given them much to think about.
Yet, Percy did not seem altogether there. Looking into his eyes he seemed slightly distant, as if his mind were considering several things at once, serious things. "Come now my Percy, why such an odd look on your face tonight? Tonight is not a night for seriousness. If your feet can take it, I plan to keep you here dancing with me all night."
"Such harsh threats Madame!" Percy glanced down at her, his eyes coming away from that far distant place back into the land of the living. "I will have to confess to concede to your whims as a man such as I could never hope to keep up with such beauty before me."
There. That wasn't so bad. Compliment her and soon enough, send her on her way. Percy danced with Marguerite, keeping eye contact with her and making his every move seem to be fully engrossed in here. He kept the attentiveness up, and in his knew what he was doing was a horrible thing. Treating Marguerite like this. Placating her so she would believe him.
"Well then," Marguerite replied, "then while you rest your feet dear sir, you will have to find a suitable replacement to dance with in your absence. Of course, the gracious dancer you are, that could prove a formidable task."
"After the St. Cyrs rescue Percy," he said to himself in his head, " You can stop this act with her, find out all you need to, and fix this small road block in your path of life's love. Yes, that will do. Once St. Cyrs is safe." Percy gave Marguerite a tossabout spin, extending his arm and hers, and threw back his arm over his head in a dramatic stance. He locked eyes with her and gave a hint of his true self: a daring smile.
Marguerite returned her husband's smile. She closed the distance between the two and once more gave her husband a gentle kiss. Before she would have been so cautious, displaying such affection in front of a formal, reserve, English audience, but she no longer cared. As far as she was concerned, all of her troubles had been left behind in France.
Taken aback he was! So shocked by the display of affection from his wife, Percy's mind went completely blank and his dancing ceased to a dead halt. The aria from the orchestra began to fade and the ballroom became momentarily silent. His thoughts were so wrapped up in his work that when Marguerite took him off guard, everything else disappeared. In response, he brought his gloved hands gently up to take hold of her chin and he tenderly took Marguerite full in the mouth. Instinctually, Percy closed his eyes and kissed his wife back.
Marguerite nearly melted in the tenderness in which her husband's lips took her own. As unsuspecting as she thought he would be of her kiss, she was completely shocked yet overjoyed by his.
As he was finishing his gift of a kiss and reopening his eyes, Percy realized some eyes were on them. This was not the way a gentleman of Percy's stature should be acting. Quickly, he took out his handkerchief and fanned is around his face. With his other hand, he tugged at his collar, as if the inside of his body was on fire. Embarrassed, the Baronet's face reddened.
"Whoo!" He cackled, "Now I know why they call Paris the city of love! This is one custom a English gentleman such as myself could get used too." His mind came back to St. Cyrs and Percy dismissed the thought quickly. He did not want to think of them locked up somewhere in a dark cell, while he, enjoyed himself lavishly in his own home. Later, St. Cyr must forgive his actions when Percy explained his timely cover-up. Percy smiled at all the guests and laughed out, "I hope you watched closely George old boy. I can't guarantee another showing until after everyone has left." Percy was still very confused by his dropping of his guard and letting himself being overcome by her kiss. To recoup, he waved his handkerchief about and announced, "Everybody dance!"
It made George feel slightly better for having monopolized Marguerite's time so that night, to see Percy finally enjoying his own party.. and wife. Amused by this unusal display of affection the Prince sent a wry smile back Pery's why. Happy though he was for them, Percy was the last man on earth to give HIM a lesson in love.
Marguerite smiled and once again put her hand in his to dance. "I am glad you are not always such the formal English gentleman." She whispered playfully into his ear as the orchestra began to play again and others joined them for a dance.
That got him going. Ooooh La la! Viva La France! Percy squeezed her hand and started daringly into her eyes. She had his full and undivided attention. Her soft and musical voice danced in his ear and he felt an uneasy stir from deep within, wishing they were alone. He started to follow her like the earth follows the sun. Her voice pumping the blood throughout his body quickly. She had him captured.
As they continued to dance Percy seemed much more attentive to what was going on around him, but still a slight off. After several more songs she asked, "Percy, are you tiring? I am sure you do not want to spend the entire night here, having not slept well over the past night, would you care to rest?"
"For now Madame, at your side is all I care to be. Rest? In a few moments, yes, but not quite yet." He looked directly into her eyes and was now not aware that another soul even existed. Could he steal a few moments away with her? To the garden or the kitchen or even upstairs? The man in him was conjuring up the plans of what he could do with her, but the voice of responsibility kicked in. Sir Percy was the host and was supposed to be playing his life long part of the Brit. He never came so close as he did just then for in throwing in the towel and letting all see the real Percy Blakeney.
Marguerite brightly smiled at Percy, "And at your side Sir, is the only place I ever want to be." She held herself closer to Percy as they danced. Who cares about the stern glances from the English upper crust? Percy did not, he obviously approved of her affections, and seemed to want more judging by his reaction. If it wasn't for the large crowd, she would have given him more, as much as her love desired.
Andrew self consciously stepped into the foyer of Blakeney Manor. Did he smell as bad as he LOOKED? Percy would either laugh or cry at the sight of him. He had to chuckle at the thought of Blakeney in tears over Sir Andrew Ffoulkes, coming to a ball so ill fashionably dressed.
He had to admit it, though- Andrew had set a record coming from France and all in such a short amount of time! His smile faded. St. Cyr. He would have to tell Percy that his friends were dead to the guillotine and it Andrew really didn't want to dash his friend's happiness.
With a deep sigh, Andrew walked into the ballroom where there was dancing and festivities taking place. He had to smile when Tony caught Andrew's eye. His jaw dropped open. Shaking his head, Andrew walked over towards Percy and Marguerite (warning Tony to be silent), tapping him on the shoulder. Tony's eyes lit up when Percy jumped about two feet in the air.
Andrew burst out laughing at Percy's reaction. Marguerite clung to Percy. "I apologize for the late appearance, my good fellow." He smiled again, thinking how lucky he was that Andrew wasn't here to impress anybody. Especially Suzanne!
A snicker escaped Tony upon Andrew's entrance. Now WHAT has he been into now? There was no telling with Andrew. He could hardly be considered fashionable. But now as he tapped Percy's shoulder, Andrews expression changed, catching Tony off guard. Something was wrong, and he could sense it. Percy had said that Andrew was part of this.. thing that Percy had brilliantly created. Did it have to do with that? No.. it was far too soon for something of that nature. Though it still made him wonder what was so urgent as to interrupt a ball. He started forward, wanting to be there for Percy if he needed him, but he hesitated. Maybe now wasn’t the right time. He stood a moment longer considering the situation, then hurried to Percy's side. Glancing around at the many guests, Tony addressed Andrew gently. "Might I suggest that this is taken to a more.. private room?"
He was loosing himself in her eyes. Those big, witty, green eyes. Looking longing and lustful at her, nothing else mattered. Percy was feeling whole again with her. Their marriage. His wife. The duties a husband should be doing. Percy took hold of her hand again and every so lightly ran his fingertips across the palm of her hand. It was damn sensual.
He did not even notice the small amount of buzz talk and gossip that started when Lord Andrew came in. For that matter, so lost was he in the ritual of worshiping Marguerite, Percy did not even notice someone approached them.
Marguerite was swooning in the arms of her handsome prince. Continuing their spinning dance, Marguerite felt as if she was floating on air. Giving coy smiles, gently squeezing his hand, and offering sweet suggestions into Percy's ear that would surely make the jaws of most others present drop, she was lost in a world that included only two people: her and Percy.
Getting tapped on the shoulder, Percy turned with an annoyed look, wondering who was waking him from his intimate dreams. His lower jaw simply dropped. Ffoulkes! Ffoulkes who was in France... Percy just stared at him and his appearance. He was so lost in Marguerite, he forgot himself and came up with no witty remark. No foppish questions. He just stood there, his hand dropping to his own side.
Now Tony was approaching and Armand and by God! Soon the whole damn ballroom would be over drawing attention directly at him if he did not wake the hell up and re-gain control. Tony suggested they take it to a private room. What is he thinking? Armand asking if everything was all right! By God! Did the Prince want to come over too and stand on his head to draw attention to the Baronet?!?
"SNAP OUT OF IT!" he yelled in his head, digging his gloved fingers into his own leg. He watched Andrew's face. What the devil was Andrew doing here anyway? By God! He shook his brain out of the love tunnel he had allowed himself to enter.
"By Jove, what is this?" It was the only thing that came into his head to say. No witty comment. No foppish attitude. Percy felt his blood chill and was not sure why, but the appearance of Lord Andrew in such a state did not equate into a warm reception in his mind.
The sudden presence of Sir Andrew startled her. Suddenly an crowd with an odd feeling about them was surrounding her and Percy, but Marguerite paid little mind. "Why Sir Andrew, my goodness you look like a fright. You must have walked across the channel to get here, but Percy and I are glad you are here. Oh come, you must have a seat, are you hungry, or would you like to freshen up?" Marguerite offered a friendly smile, pleased to be playing the Lady of Blakeney Manor.
Percy's eyes went as wide as saucers. "Have a seat like that? I think NOT!" He was not in control to his liking and this made him panic. Glancing at the VERY odd stares at his behavior, Percy took out his handkerchief and fanned himself quickly, trying to get back into character of the nincompoop fool.
"Tony! I say! Won't you please take Marguerite over to the Prince and make sure they are comfortable?" Percy gave Tony a piercing look that said more than words. As Tony approached him and his wife, Percy said loud enough for anyone to hear, "And Tony, you dog... if you dare disrespect or make a move that is ungentleman like, why I'll... I'll! I'll tell you what I'm going to do, as it wouldn't be right of to speak in front of a lady!"
Tony paled a little at Percy's words, and almost froze to the floor.
Quickly, Percy pulled Tony around forcefully and whispered into his ear so only Tony could hear, quickly and almost scared: "Keep the Prince and Marguerite busy. Do not come and look for us. I'll explain later. In ten minutes time, send Hawkins and Frederick upstairs to my chambers. If anyone comes looking for us, I'll expect you to warn or intervene." When he was done, he stamped his foot like a child and tossed back his chin and head like the pompous fool he was so desperately once more trying to become. Marguerite had him blind so.
"Right, sir." Tony nodded to Percy, and offered his arm to Marguerite, keeping his eye on Percy to see if he was being a satisfactory gentleman. "Lady Blakeney, would you give me the honor of escorting you to the Prince's good company?" He gave a furtive glance across the ballroom taking note the locations of Hastings and Frederick.
"Lord Ffoulkes! You are in need of more proper attire in this house! Please... come follow me! If you will excuse me. Your Highness. Lady Blakeney." Percy bowed and took a very firm hold on Ffoulkes arm.... leading him quickly out of the ballroom and away from prying eyes.
Armand felt like laughing, but he was too annoyed. They hadn’t bothered to answer him, and now Percy was leaving. Trying to think of something, he did the only thing he could do. He waited until they had left the room, then, after begging Axelia to wait for him, he followed them.
Marguerite was confused by the goings on, but decided just to play along. "Now Lord Tony, I told Percy that if he wished to leave me this evening he would have to find a suitable dance partner to take his place until he returned. If Percy is going to tend to Sir Andrew and you shall take his place."
"Well, umm." Tony gave a nervous glance at the clock on the wall, and quickened his pace towards the Prince. "I would love to, m'lady, but I was specifically instructed to leave you in care of his Highness.. If I was to do otherwise, I fear Percy shall have my head on a silver platter." He craned his neck looking for Armand.. had he followed?! "However, I am quite sure that his Highness will gladly accept a dance or two with you."
"Oh come now, in this how the English are, blindly following instructions from others?" Marguerite said teasingly, grabbing poor Tony's hand and pulling him out towards where the people where dancing. "Well then, as hostess I insist that you share at least one dance with me before delivering me to the Prince. Besides, I feel I owe you something for leaving you in the inn, having to suffer with through supper alone with Percy."
Tony panicked, looking about wildly for Hastings. Gave him a desperate look, while making sure that Marguerite saw a smile. "Really, Lady Blakeney.. I’m not so sure that this is a good plan. What if Percy.." He realized that there was, indeed, no way to escape her wishes, and schemed how he would get the message to Hastings and Fredrick.
Simple-minded though George appeared to be he had enough sense to know when a man wished to be out of a lady's presence. looking at Tony, George knew that was exactly what the poor man was trying to do. But he was having a hard time of it for Marguerite wanted him right where he was and being the hostess, it was as binding as if she had glued him to the spot. Lucky for Tony, George was fond of him and decided to relieve the stressed Englishman of his post. Striding over to the two George bowed deeply to Marguerite. " Dear Lady, why on earth would you dance with someone who has two left feet when you could have the pleasure of dancing with me? Grinning down at her, the Prince discreetly nodded at Tony indicating this was his chance to leave. Turning back to Lady Blakeney, eyebrow cocked, he awaited her answer.
"Why your Highness, I am trying to give Lord Tony a fair chance. From what I've heard most gentleman's dancing abilities pale in comparison for you. I would not want to continue the evening by being disappointed by dances with other gentleman after being graced by dancing with you your Highness." Marguerite smiled back at the prince and laughed. "But it seems Tony is just going to disappoint me anyway. Oh dear, what would Percy think if I were to tell him of this?"
"Percy would think you extremely intelligent in your rationale m'lady. You wouldn't want to ruin the reputations of the other men as dancing partners by dancing with me first. why that would be like dessert before dinner! how right you are. I suppose I shall have to amuse myself with a much dimmer light until you see fit to brighten my evening again and join me in a dance." The Prince then stepped aside to scan the crowd for another suitable partner. It was then Edward Hastings joined the trio.
"Forgive me Highness, but I do not find it fair that you monopolize the lady. I daresay, you'll have to fight me, for the next dance." he grins and takes hold of Margot's hand and kisses it gallantly, stealing a questioning and curious glance at Tony.
"What say you to that your Highness? Will you allow Lord Edward to steal me away or will have me be disappointed the rest of the evening?" Marguerite smiled, suddenly pleased by all the positive attention.
"Well considering I acquiesced to Tony dancing with you it would not be kind to play favorites. Providing you can stand to dance with the likes of him" George said, once again teasing Hastings. "And do remember Edward-this one is a married lady. You have been so excitable concerning the locating of a lady and now that you have, she is off limits. How ironically amusing!" With a fatuous chuckle the Prince smirked at Hastings. Perhaps he was a little too frequent in his jests...but Edward wouldn't take it too hard, of that he was fairly certain. And it would be best to practice his own advice-to keep in mind that Marguerite was married. George did not wish it to go any farther then it was and had no feelings for Marguerite other then thinking her as the witty wife of his friend. And the flirting that came so causally to his personality, well, it might not be all that proper. It would do good for all to have Lady Blakeney be entertained by someone other then himself.
After the gallantries of Hastings were quite finished, Tony grabbed him firmly by the arm, and met the Prince's gaze with a grateful smile, and a bow. "If your Highness will permit.." He then looked over at Hastings. "May I have a word with you, Hastings?" Gave a respectful nod to Marguerite. "Lady Blakeney."
George would have to find another time to start behaving more proper-now that everyone vying for a dance with Percy's wife had left them she was once again left in his company. Surprising she didn't mind being handed off so, and not playing the anxious hostess as one would expect. Stopping the flow of his thought he turned to the young woman. " Well! It looks like you shall have to be disappointed for the rest of the evening. Or else just sit out every other dance." With a grin and an elegant bow he began to dance with the French actress.
Marguerite smiled as the Prince took her gently in his arms for a dance. Had anyone asked she would have said he was the second best dancer she had danced with all night. The song had ended by his royal highness would not let her leave, and insisted they share several more dances. While Percy was away no one could argue with the fact that Marguerite had captured the Prince, at least for the time being, although suddenly something came over her. Her eyes grew distant as her mind wondered other places and legs simply carried her through the dances.
Now that they were once again thrown together for about the third time that evening as Fate would have it, George decided he might as well make it worth her while. For honestly, how many chances would she have to dance with one of the most accomplished dancers? George had been weaned on politics and social appearances. His mother had made good and sure he could waltz adequately by the time he was ten. Noticing Marguerite's abrupt silence and faraway look he mistook it for boredom and attempted to engage her in conversation. "I'm glad to see you and Percy are enjoying each other so." he said thinking back to the slightly shocking public display of affection between the two earlier. " It pleases me to see my friend so happy. You should have heard him talking about you Marguerite, after you first met. Why he simply gushed over you like a river running over it's banks. Gad you couldn't take the man anywhere, when he had that dreamy look in his eye-it was almost embarrassing." Smiling confidently at her, the Prince questioned her-it was Percy's party, but so far dinner and the few moments of dancing were all he had been present for. "Tell me my dear, does that generous host of ours always desert his own party? Or should we just feel unusually special?" It was part of his nature. Even when serious he had to keep things light. Teasing, jesting. It made life much more enjoyable not to be serious about anything so George avoided stoic seriousness like the plague.
"Well your Highness, Percy does like to hear himself talk sometimes. I do wonder where he's off too, no doubt some of his friends are giving him a type of belated bachelor party of sorts. As long as I get my husband back in the end I do not mind, and of course, as long as I have someone to dance with to pass the time with." Marguerite gave slight smile along with a short sigh. She was truly enjoying herself but could not help from feeling guilty.
Did he just catch her sighing? Although sighing when dancing with the PRINCE OF WALES! was highly uncommon and very unusual it was conceivable that after awhile it could become tiresome. Not to mention that Lady Blakeney had barely seen her husband all evening at the party they gave-together. Charming and witty though Marguerite was, it made George slightly uncomfortable to have passed so much of the evening with her. People would talk and gossip concerning the future leader and a newly married woman (not just that but an actress!) was not beneficial. Especially if word got around and a lecture from someone back at court ensued. On top of all these George was beginning to feel guilty for having seen more of Percy's wife that night then Percy had. This was a giant step for it was almost never the Prince felt guilty or regretted time spent with a beautiful engaging woman. He also sensed his partner's uneasiness-the sigh being the major clue. Pretending to take her last comment to heart the Prince feigned grief. " Someone to dance with? Is that all I am dear lady? Just a someone to pass away the time? Although I suppose being regarded by one as great as you as just a "someone" is praise enough to keep me content. Pausing his tone softened. "Go find your husband m'lady. It is high time that I, although reluctantly, return you. After all, you did plan this event together. And as one who might one day rule this fair England, I command that is how you enjoy it-together." His body must be losing some of it's immunity he realized. That demned plague, seriousness, had almost taken hold for a moment.
"No, no, no your highness, I am sorry your Highness, my mind was elsewhere for a moment." Her mind was in France, where dancing with royalty might very well have cost her her head. "I am honored to be dancing with such an accomplished dancer and now I'm afraid you've spoiled me and I shall not let you leave until my husband comes to reclaim me." Marguerite smiled and forced herself to concentrate more on her dancing and less on the horrors across the channel.
"Lady Blakeney what did I tell you about calling me your Highness?" George asked smiling. "Good grief I'm not the Almighty himself! And I am not yet King either. Besides... servitude doesn't become you. But if lovely woman wishes to continue dancing-who in the world am I to refuse her?!"
"I am sorry your er- George is it not? I'm becoming accustomed to all of these new customs." Marguerite said as she began to allow herself to enjoy the dancing.
Whirling her around he confided "But I am a little concerned about Percy. Either something is out of order or he has run off to buy another incredibly fashionable bit of apparel to try and out-do me yet again. But if he is having a game of cards, without me, by jove heads will roll!
Marguerite felt a lump in her throat when the Prince mentioned head rollings. Although rolling heads in England was a far cry from the literal meaning in France, the idea still bothered her, but who could blame her?
The Prince did not even notice his ill chosen phrase and danced on. As of yet France was not a concern of his. For now his father made the decisions. short of discussing current events on the rare occasions his father wanted his opinion George didn't pay attention to more then whose party needed attending and what jacket would look best. He was aware of what was happening in France of course, but until his political opinions could wield any power he was willing to put them back, forget them, and think of more pleasant things until his time came.
If he doesn't show his sly self soon I suggest you might want to send someone to hunt or out or else do it yourself. No doubt his guests wish to at least see him, if not chat with him at some point. After all-this is HIS party eh wot?"
"If I did not know better I would think that you were really just trying to get ride of me. Well then, lets say we give him to more dances worth of time. If he does not show himself we'll send someone off after him."
"Get rid of you? Lud madam any man that had such a desire would have to be the biggest fool of them all! Get rid of you-bah." As they agreed to sway and whirl longer, George winked. "Madam I do believe you shall get me in quite a lot of trouble-people shall talk you know. But they can hold their gossip a few more dances I think"
"Well, after all, as Prince of their land, you no doubt have the privilege even the responsibility to please the people, and right now to please me I wish to continue dancing." Marguerite gave a smile but at the same time a cautious glance to some of the other guests. "And I also insist, that if I am to call you George then you are to refer to me ask Marguerite."
"Well then, we must dance-Marguerite insists it!" Staying on the ballroom floor for about the 4th or 5th dance in a row George caught a glimpse of one of the young ladies he had come in with-she was pouting. Apparently there was not enough of him to go around!! Frowning inwardly he thought again that it might be advantageous if he limited the time he was spending with Marguerite. He had tried but she seemed to be enjoying herself and he had been inadvertently been given temporary charge of her. Where was Percy and what was taking him so long?
Marguerite laughed as the prince continued to swing her around the hall. "At this point I'm enjoying myself so I wonder if I should regret it if I ever see my husband again."