Shall We Dance?: FKFanatics Valentine's Day Bash 2002

Shall We Dance?
DJ Dubois
January 2002

Notes: Sony Tri-Star owns the characters from Forever Knight. StudiosUSA and Renaissance Studios own the characters from Xena Warrior Princess. The folks in here are my cohorts on the Foreverknightfanatics. Dave, Angie, and the other characters from my "Dubois Chronicles" are of my own invention. Please send comments to dante0220@yahoo.com .

Chapter 1 [The Sanctum--January 30, 2002]

With the holidays passing, everything had returned to normal. Life was picking up speed, my tasks becoming more numerous. For two weeks, I had worked on web pages, a chapter for my book, and numerous fan fiction exercises for the Ravenawards and the Royal Academy of Bards, trying to balance work with play. During this time, the door had remained closed, save for the few trips I made to stretch my legs.

Late on this evening, I heard a knocking at the door. "Yes?" I asked.

"Dave?" Angie Dubois's voice called. "Can we come in?"

"Angie, come in please. Who's with you?" I asked.

The brunette oncologist pushed the door open, leading her husband, Francesca, Xena, Eve, and Gabrielle into the room. "Is it all right? We didn't want to disturb you. One of your fellow castellans let us in."

"You're fine," I sighed. "In fact, the company's great. The castle's been too quiet lately. I'm surprised that anyone else is here to tell you the truth." Just then, I heard a familiar moaning coming from the hall. "Excuse me, duty calls," I chuckled.

Walking out into the hall, I strolled down the corridor, stopping in front of Sparky's pen. The dragon sulked in his corner, his eyes teary and his tail limp. "Hey, Sparky. Are you okay?"

A plaintive moan answered me. Obviously not.

"It's going to be okay," I assured him, opening the store closet and lugging a bag of his favorite dragon snacks to his door. Ripping the bag open, I poured the contents into his trough and then, filled his water. Stroking his scaly head, I soothed, "Now there's a good dragon. Can you eat up for me, huh? After that, I have a brief story to plan out. Then, I'll read it to you, okay?"

Sparky looked at me, seeking a promise to that effect.

"Okay, I promise. I know what you've been going through, Buddy," I assured him. At that moment, I heard some dragging noises behind me. Turning, I saw that my visitors had brought t our chairs to the pen. "Hey, guys, what's up?"

"We took a vote," Xena indicated. "Let's hold the meeting here so Sparky can get his input in."

"Why leave him out?" Dave added, shrugging. "He loves our stories."

The dragon nodded vigorously. After helping us against Divia, he wanted another role. Sticking his head over the pen's door, he waited attentively for the meeting to start.

For over an hour, the group discussed the upcoming stories "Don't Talk to Strangers" and "Something Wicked This Way Comes". Back and forth, the discussion went, sometimes adding things, sometimes arguing over points, and as things progressed, I made notes for later. For once, Gabrielle was too involved in the conversation to record it on her scrolls.

After a while, Teri came downstairs and making her way over to us, asked, "Hi, everyone. You know, you could do this upstairs if you're not in the Sanctum."

Sparky harangued knowingly, guessing that he was going to be excluded now.

"Thanks, Teri. We wanted to include Sparky, and since he can't come upstairs," I explained.

The castle mom nodded and smiled, "Okay. Please excuse me for listening in. This has been the most excitement here in the castle in a few months."

The others glanced at me. "What do you want me to do?" I protested. "I'm not in a position to call a party around here."

"If you want to make the suggestion, I'll take it to Nay and we'll consider it," Teri hinted not so subtly.

"Valentine's Day is coming up," Angie suggested, elbowing her husband.

"Are you telling him or me?" the historian asked with mock-indignation. "I know all about it. Trust me, your surprise is all set." Then, he suggested, "Your birthday is coming up a week after that, Bud."

Looking at the others, I could see that everyone wanted me to raise the point. "Would those be okay reasons to have a party?" I asked Teri.

Sparky answered with a trumpeted roar.

"I'd say that's a big 'yes'," the List Mom replied, a smile spreading across her face. "I'll start the preparations. David, would you mind sending a few emails when you get back to the Sanctum?"

"Done," I replied. "Would you like to stay and listen in?

Teri shook her head. "Sorry, I don't want to ruin the surprises you have in store for us. Great job on the last few stories by the way." With that, she walked away.

The others nodded at me. They all knew I was too big of a wallflower for my own good. At least, my suggesting a party would help my image a bit.

Chapter 2

For the next two days, word of the party preparations spread like wildfire throughout the castle. Many castellans rushed to their closets, pulling out their finery, and running it over to the cleaners before the festivities. Many things remained to be done for the event including the decorations, catering contract, and music selections. Of course, the List moms still have to assign a cleaning committee as well before the affair began. Due to this activity, everything moved faster than it had since the previous summer.

****

Unaware of the activity going on above, one of the newcomers stepped into the courtyard, focusing on her skills. Vigdis, a medieval Celtic-Norse warrior, was only getting herself acclimated to her modern surroundings and her neighbors' 21st century attitudes. Admittedly, the process could be difficult at times, especially during social situations where she was required to interact with them. She pined for the call of battle and the spoils of war.

In the courtyard, she practiced her fighting skills, keeping them sharp. Over and over again, she feinted, parried, and stabbed in a deadly ballet of martial skill. At one point, she thought the door opened, but ignored the thought.

Behind her, another female voice complemented, "Nice technique."

The medieval warrioress spun to see Xena standing there. "By the gods, Xena?"

"Yup," the Warrior Princess indicated grimly. "Your technique looks good. Mind a sparring partner?"

"Against a valkyrie?" the Celt inquired.

"From what David Duncan says of your exploits, I think you'll do fine. Besides, I kinda know what your goin' through," Xena stated, drawing her sword. "This is a strange time indeed."

"You know it," her opponent agreed, starting the action.

The Thracian warrior grinned as she parried the sword stroke. It had been too long since she had any practice of this nature.

****

For two hours, the two warriors' steel clanged against each other as they worked out their frustrations against one another. Finally, even these two warriors needed a break. Sheathing their swords, they sat a nearby bench, drinking from their respective water skins.

"Thank you," Vigdis expressed. "It's nice to know there are still others like me here."

"No problem," Xena told her. "There are plenty of people around here who are into our time periods. You just need to know where to look."

"I heard a rumor that the vampire Elder here-LaCroix-was Roman. Is that true?"

"Yeah," the raven-haired warrior stated, stretching her arms above her head. "If you want a tip, watch him carefully."

"According to the runes, you two have a history. Is that true?" Vigdis asked.

"That's an understatement. Vigdis, the man's a butcher. He's killed thousands of my friends for the glory of Rome and corrupted my daughter," Xena hissed darkly.

"You've done your share of damage as well, Xena. The runes speak of how you took advantage of Odin and the valkyries for your own gain. Besides, your hatred for Caesar and Rome is well known. "

"I think it's justified," the Warrior Princess debated. "Look, you think what you want. I'm just giving you some insight based on my own experience."

"Once again, thank you," the other warrioress accepted, choosing not to press the point.

Xena sighed, realizing the other woman's loneliness. "Hey, you want to do something interesting? How about helping with the party here at the castle?"

"I wasn't planning on it, but if you're going to be...."

"I sure will as will Gabrielle and Eve. The planning meeting's gonna be in about 20 minutes. Why don't you go with us?"

Vigdis smiled warmly. "That sounds great. I would like that."

"Let's go then," the Warrior Princess declared, guiding her new friend back into the castle proper.

****

A short while later, I sat in the castle's main hall, surveying the room, and watching folks as they wandered in. We were now down to less than a week before the big event, and I wanted everything to go right. Glancing at my watch, I saw that it was 3:15. "Time to get this clambake underway," I told myself, clinking a spoon against a half-filled water glass. After everyone had turned their attention to me, I announced, "Well, I guess this is the organizational meeting for our upcoming party. Thanks, everyone for coming. Before I get started, I want you all to know that this is going to be great! Now, let's get to the arrangements."

Teri stuck her hand up. "David?"

I nodded, indicating for her to continue.

"Did we have any definite plans on the food?" she asked. "Lucien's usually taken care of these things in the past."

Turning to LaCroix, I inquired, "Do you want to handle this item once again?"

The General shrugged. "Most certainly. The caterer, however, is being a bit truculent. He's insisting that everything's booked up. A personal visit, I think, will...persuade him otherwise."

"Would you mind some company, Lucius?" Eve asked. "I think that Mother and I should go too."

"Yeah. I'm in the mood to be 'persuasive'," Xena indicated, stretching her fingers. "Besides, any way I can help out is great."

The Elder frowned, but had to admit that the two of them together would be a formidable influence. "Would tomorrow evening work for you?"

The warrior glanced at Eve who nodded. "Sure. It might be fun,"

The former Messenger glanced at both her mother and stepbrother, imaging what this scene was going to be like. "Eli, give me strength," she muttered, dreading the next day.

"Okay. Moving right along," I continued. "We still have decorations to set up. Streamers, flowers, and anything else you can think of. Who wants to do that?"

"I can work on that," Jeannie indicated.

"Count me in," Donna agreed.

"Since I can't go with the others, count me in too," Gabrielle concurred.

"I'd like to do it as well," Vigdis added.

Nick, Alyce, and Natalie volunteered as well for this activity.

"Okay, there's the matter of music," I announced. "I have a few Purcell sonatas for waltzing, but I think some up tempo stuff might be in order."

"I have some sixties music."

"And I can bring some seventies and eighties CDs."

"Great!" I smiled. "One last thing. We need candy. Can't have a party at this time of the year without chocolate. Who wants to deal with this item?"

Nay replied, "Teri, Vachon, and I can handle this one."

I grinned widely. With that agreement, everything seemed to be in order. "Okay, we all know what to do. If anyone's got any questions, feel free to grab the castle moms or me. Meantime, let's make this a great bash!"

The others jumped out of their seats, rushing off to meet with their respective groups.

I noticed that Xena was talking with a fellow warrioress. Walking over, I stated, "Thanks for helping us."

"Thanks for letting me do it," Vigdis replied.

"Vigdis, this is David Duncan. David, Vigdis. She's a twelfth century Celt-Norse warrior," Xena introduced.

My eyebrow perked up with interest. "Really? Well, it's good to meet you. Sorry, I haven't been out much. My work keeps me in the Sanctum most of the time."

"Xena says you study my time period. Is that right?"

I nodded. "It's very interesting. Your people have a lot of culture and fascinating things about them to consider. So often, we only see the Vikings and their longships, but don't get the whole picture. Because of your people, we have a lot in terms of commercial and cultural interactions. Please feel free to stop by whenever you want to chat or ask questions."

"I'll do that. Thanks," she accepted. "Now, if you two will excuse me, I see that Gabrielle's waiting. Talk with you soon." With that, she took off across the room.

"She's an awful lot like you when you first showed up here, Xena," I noted.

"Yeah, but I had Angela and David Dubois to help me adjust. She's gonna need some other help." Rubbing my arm, she continued, "Just do what you offered and she'll be fine. Meantime, I'm gonna take off. See ya tomorrow."

"Right," I agreed, watching her walk across the drawbridge. Somehow, we had met as a group and, despite everyone's separate interests; we were on our way to making this situation work out for the best.

Chapter 3 [The Next Day]

As the preparations were now set, the different crews went to work on their respective roles.

[Betamarket Inc. Caterers Building, 20 miles from the castle]

LaCroix's limo pulled up in front of the Betamarket Caterers' office, occupying a very prominent spot. Then, the General, Xena, Eve, and I climbed out and approached the front door.

Before we walked in, Eve indicated, "Now, remember, everyone, keep your cool."

The General and the Warrior Princess exchanged skeptical looks. Given how difficult these people had been on the phone, they knew a little persuasion might be needed. The challenge would be how to keep that tactic under control. Besides, since the party would be Eve's first major social event of the 21st century, both wanted no problems. This collaboration would definitely be a first.

Entering the office, the two ancients made everyone turn and glance at them. A sudden nervousness swept through the room.

LaCroix added just a bit of swagger to his step. He loved to demonstrate a point.

Eve rolled her eyes bemusedly; not believing the scene her stepbrother was putting on for them.

The receptionist asked, "May I help you, Folks?"

"I hope so," the General replied flatly. "We need to schedule service for a Valentine's Day affair."

The woman, a slender blonde in her mid 20's, stared nervously at the imposing figure in front of her even while running her finger down the spreadsheet on her computer screen. "I'm sorry. Right now, we're booked solid, Mr...."

"LaCroix," the Roman indicated, intensifying his glare.

The woman behind the counter trembled in spite of herself. Accessing these customers' determination, she decided to call her supervisor. "Let me get someone from the back." Getting on the phone, she started talking quickly.

The former Messenger protested, "Lucius, there's no need to frighten her."

He shook his head in frustration. Had she forgotten everything about persuasive techniques? As Livia, she had been the best at that element of the game. What a pity.

Xena simply shrugged, her right brow twitching just a bit. As much as she didn't like LaCroix or his methods, she wasn't going to argue with how this was proceeding.

For my part, as much as I agreed with her, I wasn't about to get in the Elder's way on this one. Accordingly, I just stayed back, watching the floorshow.

A minute later, a stocky man with snow-white hair and a navy blue suit stepped out of the back office. "Good afternoon. I trust you are the folks who want to do business with us."

"That was the general idea," Xena remarked, eyeing this bureaucrat skeptically.

The night administrator started to sweat a bit between her and the Elder's glances. "Would you all please step into my office?"

I shrugged. "Sure." Leading the others, I stepped into the small room.

When we were all there, the man shut the door and sat down behind the large oak desk. "As my receptionist told you, there aren't any openings on that day or for that week I might add."

I winced. "You've got to be kidding!"

LaCroix chuckled. "Calm yourself, Duncan. I'm sure the gentleman's mistaken."

Studying his computer screen again, the official shook his head. "No, there are no openings or cancellations."

The Roman leaned across the desk, locking eyes with the annoying mortal, and allowing the hypnosis to flow between them. "You have a cancellation on that night...."

For a minute, the man's eyes bulged and he seemed to be reconsidering his position. Then, he shook himself out of it. "What the...? No, Sir. I told you we don't have any openings."

"That's it," I sighed frustratedly, trying to run through our remaining options.

"Not just yet," the Thracian warrior advised, shaking her head firmly. "We have one more card to play." Stepping up to the desk, she slurred, "Are you sure?"

"What! Are you deaf, Lady? We can't help you. Now, if you don't leave, I'll call the police."

She growled, "Now, that ain't nice. I was hopin' to settle this peacefully." Quicker than the eye could follow, her fingers stabbed at the sides of his throat, causing him to spasm. "I've just cut off the flow of blood to your brain. You'll be dead in 30 seconds unless I release ya. Find a cancellation!"

LaCroix grinned savagely at this sight having watched her do this to his men on several occasions. Leaning close to the suffering man whose nose dribbled blood, he urged, "I'd do what she says. She has killed men such as you before." Running his finger below the other's nostrils, the vampire helped himself to an appetizer. "It tastes like chicken."

The man's eyes bulged wider and wider.

I stood there, eyes fixed on my watch, and counting, "25...24...23."

Eve argued, "Mother!"

"20...19...18," I continued.

"Lucius!"

"16...15...14," I reported, twirling my hand for emphasis. These food service companies could be such a pain to deal with. Accordingly, I was enjoying this scene.

The man forced his hands across the keyboard, finding a sorority party with an alternative caterer also listed. Pushing two keys, he grunted, "Th...There!"

LaCroix scanned the screen and nodded approvingly. "Splendid. Xena?"

She shrugged and released the crimps in his veins, allowing the executive to breathe normally. "Pleasure doin' business with ya."

"N..No problem," the man whispered hoarsely as we departed.

As we got back in the limo, Eve complained, "I can't believe you two did that in there."

"Sometimes, Eve, people need a bit of persuasion," the warrior pointed out. "Ain' t that right, Lucius?"

"Indeed," LaCroix concurred, tapping on the window and urging the car onward.

Chapter 4 [Two Days Later]

In the main hall, the decorations committee sat around the table, checking if they had everything. It had been a harrowing time since the initial meeting for the group since they had to run around town for things. Fortunately, Vachon, Alyce, and Nick had helped the castellans get everything they needed.

"Okay," Donna smiled, glancing at the others and holding her checklist. "What do we have?"

The two Kellys stuck their hands up. Grinning even wider, the leader indicated, "Kelly W.?"

"Well, Kelly and I got the streamers."

"Hopefully, twenty rolls was enough," the other Kelly chimed in.

"Vigdis, Gabrielle, and I took care of the floral arrangements," Vachon stated.

The two historical females exchanged looks with each other. The smooth-talking Spaniard had handled the affair for the most part, sweeping the poor florist off her feet.

Still for the Celtic warrioress, the trip had given her the opportunity to meet the former Conquistador. She supposed, "It could have been worse, I suppose. I would prefer to fight rather than talk my way through things. The way people do things in this time is tough to get used to."

"I know what you mean," the Bard-Queen concurred, making notes on her scroll.

"We brought the tablecloths back from the laundry," Jeannie indicated

"Excellent, everyone," Donna approved, marking off the boxes on her list. Turning to the Castle Moms, she inquired, "Do we need to do any cleaning, or will that be taken care of?"

Nay reported, "I think we'll need to do a bit of sweeping around the main hall. Otherwise, the castle should be fine for our bash."

"Sounds good to me," Teri concurred. "Who wants to get the chocolate?"

"I'll go," Vachon volunteered.

"Can I accompany you?" Vigdis asked.

"I don't see why not," the Spaniard agreed. "Let's go."

Vigdis grinned, grabbing her overcoat. "I'm with you."

"And I'll drive," Teri offered, never missing a chance to be close to Vachon. With that the trio took off.

Donna nodded with satisfaction. Looking at her checklist, her friends' run to the Decadent Chocolate Factory should take care of the last few loose ends. "Okay, let's go get some dinner. Let's say we meet back here on Thursday night about 6ish?" Seeing nods around the table, she continued, "Good. See you all then." Saying that, she got up from her chair and led the others toward the garage. As much as they enjoyed castle life, the drudgeries of RL still hovered outside the gates.

****

Eve watched the preparations cheerfully. Despite her mother's friendship with Gabrielle, the former Messenger was glad that Xena had some friends to share some experiences with. This party seemed to bring out liveliness in the ramparts, which she hadn't seen in the last few months. She also hoped that the affair would lighten her stepbrother's mood as well.

Despite the initial controversy, the food would be spectacular. "Apparently, Lucius and Mother made an impression on them," she thought. Although she didn't quite understand the modern concept of the "buffet," she did feel better about humbly serving oneself rather than being waited on.

Staring at the clock on the wall, she realized that it was getting close to 6PM and her daily prayer vigil. Putting all other thoughts from her mind, she made her way toward the chapel and her meditation.

****

Nick sat at the main table, drinking from a goblet of bloodwine, and waiting for Xena and Alyce to show up. Since he had the shift at the Precinct in three hours, he wanted to find out what his friends wanted before he needed to leave the castle.

At three minutes to six, the two women joined him at the table. Pouring themselves a glass of wine from their respective bottles, Alyce from the blood batch and Xena from the regular red wine.

"Thanks for coming, Nicholas," Xena indicated. "Since I know both of you have to be at work shortly, I'll get to the point. I've been wondering if David found himself an evening companion for the dance yet?"

"If you're referring to a date, no, he hasn't," the curator replied. "I was planning to dance with him as was Natalie and, I think, Eve promised him a time around the floor herself."

Nick chuckled to himself. "I think I know where she's going with this, but let me ask, has Eve found a date yet?"

"No," the warrior responded. "But, I want to help her to get one before Lucius hooks her up with someone if you get my drift."

The two vampires gave each other a knowing look. He would definitely set her up if for nothing else to suit his image. After all, it was unseemly for a Roman woman to be seen out in public without a chaperone.

"And you're thinking about David, right?" Alyce grinned. Seeing her nod, she continued, "Good choice. Neither will have high expectations of the other plus he'll treat her like a lady."

"That's what Gabrielle and I thought as well," the warrior concurred. Noting that Nick's smile had diminished somewhat, she asked, "What is it, Nicholas? Concerned about Lucius, are you?"

He sighed, "Sorry. It just hit me. He and David don't like each other very much. Do you really think he's going to go along with letting him date Eve?"

"I don't really care what he thinks," Xena smiled icily. "This is her first date, and I'm her mother. If he has issues, he can deal with me. I can handle him. So, are we settled on it, then?"

Alyce nodded, "Sounds great."

"Count me in too," Nick concurred.

At that moment, Vachon and Vigdis crossed the portcullis and entered the area.

"Hola, Amigos," the Spaniard smiled.

"Did you get the candy?" Nick probed.

"Indeed we did," the Celtic warrioress indicated. "Since the Decadent Chocolate Factory didn't close until 9:30, we had plenty of time to shop around and acquire what we needed.

"As well as get to know each other," the former Conquistador alluded, a smile spreading across his face.

Nick rolled his eyes at the Community's resident Don Juan. "Excuse me? I don't remember this venture being labeled as a pleasure cruise," he gibed.

"My friend, I never turn down an opportunity to talk with a lady," Vachon smiled knowingly. "Especially a fellow warrior."

"I think she has a few more kills than you, Vachon," Xena cracked wryly, taking a long sip from her cup.

"True," Vigdis chimed in, pouring herself a glass from Xena's bottle. "But, it's nice to meet a fellow warrior whether it be Vachon or Nicolas."

Nick shrugged, "I was a warrior, but my heart wasn't into the killing. It was my duty. Still, if I can be your friend and help your transition into this century's lifestyle, I will be more than happy to serve you in that capacity."

"As will I," Alyce added. "I've done some research on your period as well."

"The more friends I have, the better," Vigdis agreed. "Remember, Vachon, you promised me that dance."

"I did. I'm sure Tracy won't mind sharing me for one dance," he affirmed.

"You mean for at least one dance?" Nick added, a sarcastic eyebrow arching over his right eye. "I'm sure you'll be sharing dances with half of the women in the keep."

"You got a problem with that?"

"Actually, no, but I know Tracy does. After our last dance here, she was surly for almost two weeks. Remember, I have to ride with her and not even the Caddy is big enough to stay clear of her moods," the vampire-detective recounted.

"I don't want to be any trouble," Vigdis stated.

Vachon glared at Nick, ticked off that the latter was upsetting her.

"You're not any trouble," Xena pointed out. "And I don't think that Nicholas meant that. He was just reminding Vachon that since he'll be with Tracy to pick a few dances out with the others, but to spend the majority of the night with his own companion. Isn't that right, Nicholas?"

"Exactly," Nick agreed. "Look, Vachon, I'm sorry. Even though Alyce and I are going together, we're going to have a few dances with other people."

"If I don't let him dance with Nat, the castle's going to have a revolt," Alyce cracked knowingly. "But we're still going to spend the evening together."

"Besides, Tracy's my friend as well as my partner. I just don't want to see her sitting by herself again is all," Nick concluded.

"I know," Vachon agreed. "And I called her earlier tonight. Tracy asked that Vigdis sit with us if she doesn't mind."

"I like that. Thank you," she accepted.

"Well, now that we've settled all of those things, I think it's time to let our detective go to his shift," Alyce indicated. "Besides, I have to be at the museum soon myself."

With that, the two vampires got up and left the castle through the portcullis, streaking off into the night sky soon after.

Xena smiled warmly at her remaining friends. Granted, she was nervous at this being Eve's first dance, but she would do everything she could to make it a night to remember.

For notes & such, please see Part 1 (Additional Note: "Destiny's Edge" and "Break the Silence" are by Lori Yates and Molly Johnson respectively. The "Suite from Black Buddha" is by Fred Mollin and "LaCroix Reads a Book" is by Fred Mollin and Nigel Bennett. These tracks are from "More Music From the Original Television Soundtrack Forever Knight" (1999). )

Chapter 5

[Valentine's Day]

Finally, the big day was here! For the entire day at work, I sat, staring at the clock in the bottom right corner of the computer screen. The hours crawled by like days as I heard my co-workers prattling on about things. Finally, I gave up, putting on my headphones, sticking Volume 2 of the FK soundtrack into the CD drive, and letting the tracks sweep me away. I must admit that while underwhelmed by the General's monologues particularly the one pertaining to Dante, "Destiny's Edge" and "Break the Silence," and the "Buddha suite" relaxed me a great deal and made the last hour fly by. At 4:30, I called it quits, grabbing my coat and taking off for the Castle.

Remembering to take off my running shoes before I entered the keep, I walked into the main room where LaCroix and Eve were talking. "Hi, Eve...LaCroix," I greeted.

"Hello, David. How did work go today?" she asked.

"Fine," I shrugged. "I'm ready for tonight. Did you bring anybody?"

"No. I'm thinking of asking someone later," she sighed, shaking me off.

The Elder cleared his throat. "I suppose you were going to clear this with me first?" he asked while taking a draught of bloodwine.

I shook my head, counting to ten, trying to keep quiet. Man, I was wishing that Xena would come in and shut him up. A slight frown betrayed my mood shift.

"You have something to say?" LaCroix baited, guessing at the source of my displeasure.

"Not really. Eve's a big girl, LaCroix. Besides, if her mother says it's okay, I don't see what the problem is," I stated, backpedaling a few steps from the anticipated reaction.

"Mind your own business, Duncan," he hissed. "This isn't one of your stories."

"No, but I'm figuring that you wouldn't want to wreck the mood either," I countered, stepping right up to him and going eye to eye with the increasingly yellow shades. "I'm grateful for the assistance, so I'm willing to leave the point there." Looking at Eve, I added, "Sorry about that. You know how I feel about the overbearing father types." With that, I walked back across the room and down the stairs.

"That attitude's going to get the mortal killed one of these days," LaCroix advised his stepsister. "If he weren't Nicholas's and your friend, I would've..." Lifting his hands from the armrests, the marks from his clenched hands were still visible.

"I really wish you wouldn't have baited him like that, Lucius," the Amazon Princess declared. "You know he has a tough enough time with you as it is. Seeing you ordering me around really grates on him. Now, promise me, you'll try to enjoy yourself tonight."

"For you, Liv...Eve," he agreed. "If he keeps his distance."

"I'll see to that," she agreed, getting up and following me downstairs.

****

I sat in the hallway by Sparky's pen, shaking my head in disbelief. "This is supposed to be a festive day," I sighed. "And yet, I let His Aloofness bait me. Man, am I an idiot."

The dragon crooned reassuringly.

"Yes, that was foolish," Eve interjected. "Not many come away from an argument with Lucius with their neck intact."

"I apologized," I told her.

"Yes and you thanked him for his assistance as well. He also knows why you stepped in. But, David, you can't provoke him like that," she advised.

"I was thinking of you is all," I told her. "Bad enough he does it to Nick, but he still thinks you're Livia."

"And I appreciate it what you were trying to do. Really, I do. But, I can take care of myself. Besides, if something had happened to you, my mother and David would've started something with him. We don't need something like that here," she continued, rubbing my shoulder. "But the sentiment is nice. Thank you. Now, let's get cleaned up. The dinner'll be starting soon."

"Who did you end up asking?" I wondered.

"I didn't want to say anything but Alyce has me on something called a 'blind date'. How about you?" she asked.

"I'm going by myself as far as I know," I shrugged. "But, I'm looking forward to being with everyone tonight. Natalie and Alyce said that they'd dance with me."

"That's nice," she indicated. "If my 'date' will let me, I'll share a song with you as well." With that, she ascended the stairs, heading for the upstairs rooms.

Sparky snorted at me.

"Yok it up, Flame-Brain," I shot back, smiling over my shoulder as I went back to the room to change for the party.

Chapter 6

Two hours later, the buzz of preparation rang throughout the castle. After a week of frantic preparation, everyone spritzed himself or herself up in an effort to look their very best. Thanks to the castle moms' arrangements, the laundry service dropped the tuxedos and evening dresses off at exactly 5PM. As the plastic-wrapped bundles were clearly labeled, the anxious party attendees located their things and made their way into their rooms before the affair began.

****

[Tucson-The El Gato Negro club]

The El Gato Negro hadn't yet opened for the evening to the general public. In addition, both the longtime residents and Janette's recent adoptees remained downstairs as per LaCroix's wishes. He had determined that nothing would disturb the last minute preparations. Nick, Tracy, Vachon, and Miklosh all stood over by the bar in their very best attire, waiting for the rest of their friends to join them.

Meanwhile, Eve nervously washed her face. While she had been to many such affairs as Livia, she had no idea what would be termed customary behavior by the castellans.

"It will be all right," Janette advised. "Trust me, they don't bite."

"Great," she groused pessimistically. "Just what I needed to hear from a vampire."

"You'll be fine, my Dear," she soothed, a smile tugging at the sides of her mouth over the last comment. "Just be yourself."

"That's right," Gabrielle concurred, joining the other two. "You're going to look great."

"Gabrielle, I wish Lucius hadn't insisted on all of this fanciness!" Eve protested, waving her hands in the direction of her hair and clothes. "I would've been satisfied with just a simple dress!"

"Maybe you would have, Eve," the queen told her. "But, Lucius, Xena, and I wouldn't have been. As much as this is a simple affair, this is also a coming out of sorts for you. As an Amazon princess and my heiress, I want you to look your very best. Besides, you want to make your Mom happy, don't you?"

For a long minute, the former Messenger shook her head. Her vows mandated simplicity and austerity yet she did want to make Xena happy. "Okay, Gabrielle," she smiled. Turning toward the Bard, she asked, "How do I look?"

"Like a million dinars," Xena commented, admiring her daughter. "You look fabulous."

"You really think so, Mother?" Eve asked anxiously.

"I do," the warrior beamed, a tear creasing her right cheek. Walking over, she kissed her daughter on the cheek. "Have a great time tonight, okay?"

"I'll try."

"That's my girl. Now, c'mon, everyone's waitin'," the warrior anxiously bade. After Gabrielle and Eve left, Xena turned to Janette and expressed, "Thanks for your help."

"It was my pleasure, Xena, but you're quite welcome," the lady of the evening acknowledged as they walked into the main room.

LaCroix stood by the door, chatting with Eve, and clearly enjoying her transformation. Everyone could clearly see that his eyes were shining with pride over his stepsister. Turning to the others, he advised, "Come, Michel's waiting with our limousine. Shall we?"

Walking out the front door, he guided Eve in first and then stepped in behind her. The others followed suit shortly thereafter. Once everyone was settled in place, the long black car drove off into the night.

****

[The Castle]

Back in the Sanctum, I stood in my sweats, checking the clothes lying on my bed, making sure that everything was in order. Then, I heard a knock at the door. "Yes?"

"David, it's Tristan. Can Stephni and I come in?"

"Sure. What's up?" I asked.

The door opened to admit the two visitors, the latter being LaCroix's apprentice, into the room. The twosome had just returned from running an errand. Accordingly, I figured they would've been busy preparing for the festivities.

"So, this is what your study looks like," she admired. "Very nice."

"Thanks and it's great to get visitors," I acknowledged. "How's everything?"

"Fine," he replied, a smile across his face. "I just wanted to let you know that Sparky's been taken care of for the evening. Go up and have a great time."

"Thanks," I responded warmly. "I appreciate that. I'd hate to think we'd be up there, having a good time and leaving him out of it. I'm sure you've got that covered."

The young man nodded, "I do indeed, but I appreciate your concern."

"No problem. That's what friends are for, right? I smiled, rubbing his shoulder.

"Absolutely," Steph concurred. "Well, we'll see you upstairs. Thanks again." With that, they departed, heading upstairs to prepare themselves.

"Okay, now to get dressed," I stated, locking the door latch, and approaching the bed.

****

Meanwhile upstairs in her room, Vigdis looked at herself in the mirror. Granted, both Teri and Vachon had assured her that her dress was great, but did it have to be so revealing? Besides, the cloth was so flimsy. Glancing at her armor sitting in the corner, she wished she could wear that tonight as she had to the banquets during her own time. Without it and her weapons, she felt nervous and somewhat vulnerable. Still, LaCroix wouldn't let anything happen. Still, a second opinion was in order, and she knew just who to ask. Heading out the door, she walked toward the stairs.

****

About ten minutes later, I stood in front of the mirror, gazing at myself. "Good thing I took off those ten pounds," I thought, admiring the tuxedo, which Nick and I had picked out. "Dave, my man, you're going to knock them out tonight!" Then, hearing a knock at the door, I asked, "Yes?"

"David, right?" Vigdis inquired.

"That's right," I replied. "Who's there?"

"Sorry, it's Vigdis. I wanted your opinion on something if I could come in?" the warrioress requested.

"Absolutely," I agreed, recalling the warrior from the initial organizational meeting. Undoing the latch, I allowed her to enter. "It's very nice to see you again."

"Likewise," she agreed, a slight bit of nervousness showing through in the timbre of her voice. Glancing about the room, she studied the books around the room, surveying the languages. "These are in Latin, French, and Anglo-Saxon!"

"They are," I indicated, joining her there. "Medieval research requires I can read those languages in addition to Spanish and Italian. I find your time period very interesting."

She smiled. "I was wondering if I look all right. I mean, I'm so used to being in my armor and I don't want to embarrass myself upstairs."

I surveyed the blonde warrioress. Her beige dress flowed from her shoulders down to her toes. The golden necklace glittered in the taperlight. "You look great. I know this is a new experience for you, but just know that you aren't alone. I'm going by myself too."

"Really?" she asked.

"Really," I continued. "Just relax and you'll be fine. Meantime, we should be getting up there. Shall we?"

"Okay," she agreed, watching me put out the tapers before following me out the door and up the stone staircase.

Chapter 7

Walking up the stairs, we entered the main chamber and admired the scene. Plates of honey-roasted chicken, prime rib, and vegetables lined the buffet table. A table of fine red, white wines had been set up beside it. A keg of dark beer sat on the floor to its left. Streamers hung from the ceiling. The flowers lined the entranceways in addition to making each table something special. From the way the dance floor sparkled, I'd say the castle moms just had it cleaned. "Wow," I admired.

"Those folks certainly know how to liven a place up," Schanke agreed, walking in with Myra.

I saw Nick sitting with Alyce across the room, drinking their respective goblets of bloodwine. Natalie looked divine in her fine beige evening gown accompanied by pearls and jewels. "Grace must've pushed her to the beautician's," I smirked. Tracy came in with Vachon followed closely by the Reeses.

"There are Tracy and Vachon. David, if you'll excuse me?" Vigdis requested.

I nodded. "You bet. Have a great time."

She smiled and headed off toward her companions' table.

I continued on my way through the crowd, taking in the fashion styles and the fun atmosphere in the room and wishing it could be like this more often.

"This is some party," Xena complemented. She looked splendid in her Roman-style dress.

"Thank Teri, Nay, and LaCroix," I shrugged. "I only made the suggestion."

"Well, it was a good one," she directed. "By the way, Eve told me what you did this afternoon. I wanted to say thank you for being a good friend to both of us."

"My pleasure," I beamed. Just then, I saw Nick and Alyce coming over with Eve. "Hi, guys. I thought that Eve had a date set up."

"She does," the curator smiled.

"With you," Nick chuckled.

"With me?" Eve and I chorused nervously, glancing at each other.

"That's right," her mother informed us dryly. "Just keep your hands to yourselves." Her eyebrow arched and a sly smile spread across her face. "Have a good time both of you." With that, she walked across the room in search of Gabrielle.

I studied the Messenger's appearance. She had a beautiful navy blue evening dress with only a plain set of pearl earrings and a fine gold necklace. Her hair, done up in the Roman style, shone radiantly. Her eyes sparkled in the light. "You..You look splendid," I complemented hesitantly, albeit a bit overwhelmed.

"I don't know. It seems a bit much," she sighed resignedly. "But, Lucius wanted me to wear the necklace and have my hair done. Do you like it?"

"Absolutely," I indicated, taking her arm in mine and guiding her to a table. "This is going to sound like a pickup line, but I'm sure that Beatrice and Botachelli's Venus would have a tough time matching you." Seeing her blush with embarrassment, I continued, "Sorry if I laid it on a little thick, but the look does you justice. You should do it more often."

"As should you," she complemented while pulling the chair out for her. "That outfit looks nice on you."

I smiled and bowed my head briefly. "Would you like something from the wine table?" I asked.

"A glass of red wine please," she requested.

"Coming right up," I concurred, stepping up to the table for our refreshments. I poured a glass of red for her and some pink zin for myself. Turning, I came face to face with LaCroix. Forcing myself to be civil, I complemented, "This is an awesome spread. Thank you for all of this. Speaking for myself, I really appreciate it."

The Elder smiled, "I'm sure you do. You're quite welcome."

I nodded in agreement before adding, "By the way, that was a nice thing you did for Eve. The necklace and the hairstyle look good on her. For what it's worth, that's really great of you."

The general shrugged, "I am her brother after all. Besides, this is her first engagement in the 20th century. I want it to be a good one. Am I clear?"

I shook my head. I didn't know whether to be offended or shocked. The chump did care. Still, this wasn't the time or the place for a wise crack. "Look, LaCroix. Eve and I are just friends, okay? Don't worry; she's in good hands. I promise."

"Very well," he sniffed, shooting a glance toward our table and walking away.

"What was that about?" Eve wondered as I returned to the table.

"Nothing. I complemented him on the food and your necklace," I shrugged. "I told him that he did a nice thing in helping you to get ready. That's all."

She smiled, letting her dark eyes sparkle at me. "Thank you for going along with us on that point. I know it's not easy for you."

"I told him the truth," I insisted. "A good deed should never go unnoticed. Isn't that what Eli says?"

Rolling her eyes, she concurred with a bit of mirth, "Something like that."

For the next hour, we ate and talked about philosophy, history, and the subtleties of the universe. As we did, both of us seemed to relax a bit, letting down our guard. For a scholar such as myself, talking with her opened a lot of doors on Antiquity. She seemed to enjoy answering my questions on various subjects on a deeper level than I had asked for in our story meeting sessions.

Finally, it was time for the dancing to begin. The first dance was for the birthday folks and their dates. Since only 5 couples shared the floor for that time, it looked spacious to me.

"Shall we dance?" I asked and held out my hand, albeit a bit nervously.

"I'd love to," she replied in like fashion, getting up from her seat. Along with the other four couples, we stepped onto the floor. As we did so, she admitted, "I've never done this before."

"That's okay. Follow my lead, and we'll take it slow," I whispered in her ear. We moved in harmony to one of Purcell's sonatas. Within a few steps, she had picked up on the pattern and we moved as one across the floor for several minutes. To each of us, we felt as if we were gliding on air even though we were only making a few of the simplest moves. However, it didn't matter. By the end of the song, I could tell she was getting comfortable. "How are you doing?" I wondered.

"Great," she agreed as one of Mozart's violin sonatas came on. "Can I have another lesson?"

"Absolutely," I nodded and off we went. For four more dances, we continued the pace, twirling and moving as one. With each suite, she relaxed more and more. As we went, I allowed my eyes to survey the room. By the bar, Xena nodded and smiled proudly. Gabrielle, scroll and quill in hand, scribbled away to get this account down for posterity. I noticed LaCroix talking to Nick and Alyce in the corner, but keeping an eagle eye on us the whole time. I also noticed that my fellow castellans were having fun. For their parts, Steph, Tristan, the Kellys, Teri, Nay, Jeannie, and Vigdis all seemed to be moving to their own rhythms. Speaking of the latter, I noticed that she was dancing with LaCroix. As I recalled she wanted a dance with the General, I mused to myself, "She doesn't waste any time. Good for her."

At the end of the sixth tune, we took a break, returning to our seats. I refilled our glasses and placed them in front of us.

"Thank you," she accepted and raised her glass. "To the best dance teacher."

"To the best dancing partner," I replied, clinking glasses and drinking part of the contents. "You're a quick study, Eve. Very nicely done."

"Thank you for going slow and giving me time to catch up," she accepted, smiling warmly and sipping from her glass and sampling the fruit dish in front of her. My chocolate mousse was great as well.

For the rest of the evening, we danced and twirled. Eve's progress continued to astound me as she made adjustments to both the slow steps and even indulged me by doing some faster pace dancing. As most of the "modern music" was from the 1960s through the mid 1980s, the lyrics weren't that bad for her sensibilities.

However, it was about 12:30 when LaCroix approached our table....

Chapter 8

LaCroix stood there, glancing us over. While he was glad to see Eve having a good time, he was less than amused that I was her date. However, as we had agreed upon earlier, neither of us was going to let our personal grudges spoil the mood.

"As her brother and the head of her household, I would like a dance with her," he requested placidly as if he were her father rather than her brother.

Seeing me tense, she advised me, "Don't, David. It's been such a wonderful evening." Turning to her stepbrother, she added, a smile on her face, "I'll dance with you, Lucius, because you're my brother and because I want to share such a moment with you."

"That will be...sufficient," he relented temporarily. "Now, come if you would."

I nodded, watching them take off across the floor. "Even he deserves a moment in the sun with his sister, I guess."

At that moment, Gabrielle and Alyce approached the table.

"Hi, David. Care to dance with us?" the bard asked.

"Sure," I nodded, a smile forming on my face. "With both of you at once?"

"No, Silly," the curator cracked. "She'll go first and then, I'll spend the next song with you, if that's all right."

"Absolutely," I agreed, stepping out onto the floor with the Bard-Queen. "It isn't everyday that I get to dance with an Amazon queen and a princess."

****

LaCroix glided across the floor, helping Eve with the intricate steps of this new waltz. While he had been glad of her return, it didn't totally sink in until he saw her come out of the backroom of the Gato. He had missed her desperately. Yes, he had his coven of immortal sons and daughters and loved them all, Nick most of all. However, this young woman in front of her was his sister. It didn't matter that she was adopted into the familia as a favor to the Emperor; she was a part of the household and his family even in this weakened state.

For a split second, he was back at the Imperial court in ancient Rome, watching his sister --as Livia-dancing with various patricians. Of course, their father watched her like a hawk, insuring that his daughter wouldn't be touched. She was enjoying herself at something besides the military training. Her eyes sparkled and she actually laughed a bit even as her mind continued to plot and plan for her own future, she enjoyed the festivities around her.

Guessing at his thoughts, she inquired, "Lucius, while I'm not Livia, I'm still your sister, and I do care."

"I know that," he replied softly, drawing her closer. "It's just that I miss the way things used to be."

"We can never go back. Yes, our mother was kind, and, even though you didn't approve of my visits, I cared for Divia as well. Father always looked out for us as well," the former Messenger indicated. "I would give a great deal, however, to see you cured of this affliction, Lucius. Yes, I don't approve of your past actions, but you are my brother. I love you not because you're General Lucius, but because you're my brother. Trust me, I do care."

"I...thank you for that," he stated graciously, trying to maintain his stoic appearance yet fighting a sudden emotional outburst.

Wiping the single bloody tear from his cheek, she smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "You're welcome. Now, shall we enjoy ourselves and tonight?"

He nodded and guided her into another waltz.

****

During the first dance, I asked the Bard, "How's Xena doing?"

"She's nervous," Gabrielle admitted. "Watching her daughter on her first date and all that, I guess. Then, she's keeping her eye on Lucius as well. How's everything with you?"

"Great," I smiled. "If there's such a thing as the prefect friendly date, this is it. Thanks to you and Francesca for helping her with the dress."

"Our pleasure," she grinned, handing me off to Alyce.

As the second dance proceeded, Alyce told me, "I'm glad you two are having such a good time. Eve was so nervous."

"That made two of us," I admitted. "Especially after you hooked us up. Thanks, Alyce. Things are working out great."

"Wonderful!" she nodded approvingly. "Well, you are doing very well tonight for what it's worth. "

As the song ended, I led her back to the table, indicating to Nick, "Thank you for allowing me the dance."

"You're quite welcome," the detective assured me, his eyes sparkling. "I'm glad you're having a good time. Go on, I think they're done."

Making my way across the floor, I approached Eve and LaCroix by our table. He simply smiled to me and backed away with a nod.

"He dances wonderfully," she stated breathlessly. "It was good to have a couple of songs with him as well. Thank you, David."

I glanced across the room at Gabrielle. She nodded as if she knew what the conversation was about.

Turning back to Eve, I indicated, "You're welcome."

Unfortunately, at that moment, the clock struck one, bringing the festivities to an end.

Once again, we linked arms and walked through the flower-covered archway. After we passed through the exit and walked toward the drawbridge, I saw Xena and LaCroix standing on either side of the portcullis, like beefeaters, watching each other and us as well.

As we reached them, I picked Eve's hand up and kissed it. "It was a wonderful evening. Thank you for sharing it with me."

"Thank you for spending it with me and happy birthday," she smiled and hugged me.

"LaCroix, Xena, thank you as well. I do appreciate this," I added, trying to be diplomatic.

The former Roman general simply bowed and, with a glare to Xena and Gabrielle, walked back into the castle.

Seeing her daughter's shining eyes, the Warrior Princess chuckled, a tear coming down her cheek. "I know. And I need to thank you too for giving Eve a wonderful evening and for giving Gabrielle and me a nice memory. This night is one of those times when it's great to be a mother. And, in addition, I'm proud of you as well. There were at least three times in there that you and Lucius could have started arguing, but you didn't."

"Gabrielle was a help in at least in one case," I shrugged, looking at the Bard.

"I didn't do much. I shared a dance with you. You did the rest," the queen assured me. "Well, it's getting late, and we need to be heading back to Tucson. Please thank Teri and Nay for inviting us, will you?"

"I sure will. Thank you for coming," I replied pleasantly, watching them disappear into the darkness. With that, I went inside to see if I could be of help in cleaning up. Seeing that LaCroix's staff had everything under control, I retired to the Sanctum where I changed clothes and brought a flower to Sparky so that he might have something from the party. With everything else being perfect, I didn't think he should be left out of the fun.