Once Upon A Dream

Lady Elaine Hale. 21. She/her.

[elainexhale]

[ sydney sweeney, she/her, ciswoman ] — was that ELAINE HALE? the TWENTY TWO year old is a LADY, how exciting to see them this season! rumors have it they are ALTRUISTIC and RESILIENT, but i’ve heard they are IMPULSIVE and CREDULOUS as well — maybe that’s why they’ve been called the THE NIGHTINGALE. I have even heard that HER PREVIOUS ENGAGEMENT WAS ENDED DUE TO AN UNWANTED PREGNANCY —only time will tell.

Tw: miscarriage

Born to a wealthy family in the countryside of England, Elaine Hale was the only and most prized daughter of Viscount Arthur Hale. By the time she was thirteen, her father had already arranged the perfect marriage for her: she would be the wife of an English Duke of higher standing. All hopes were laid on Elaine for their family’s advancement and Elaine was soon shipped off to the Duchey to live with her groom-to-be’s family, learning the ways of the aristocracy and her future role as the Duchess.

Things seemed to be going well and the future Duchess spent five years with the family as they waited for her to be of more suitable age for marriage. No one would have expected that unhappiness between the couple brewed the moment their eyes met. The Duke was of much older age and had little use for a child–only agreeing to the marriage after seeing the fruits of Elaine’s parents’ marriage: six children, with only one daughter? What heir-deprived family wouldn’t wish for such a potentially high-yielding daughter-in-law?

Her future husband’s distaste and the reality of her value set into Elaine’s heart early on and she found herself desperate for an escape from such a miserable future. Youth and desperation were a dangerous combination and it wasn’t long before she found herself giving her heart away to the family’s youngest stable-boy. They would fill each other’s heads of dreams of running away, of a love so forbidden for people of Elaine’s standing. Such passion was soon consummated and the Duke’s family got exactly what they had asked for: a frighteningly fertile future daughter-in-law.

It was very obvious that the child was not the Honorable Duke’s child, after all, the marriage hadn’t even been officiated, let alone consummated, and Adeline was immediately shunned from the Duke’s family. Even the stable boy turned her away, having gotten what he wanted from her. She returned to her family frightened, guilt tearing her apart from the inside out. She had let her family down, and fully expected them to turn her away as well, leaving her to fend for herself and her child on the streets. 

But, her family was so much more merciful than she could have ever hoped for. With only men in the house, they knew that Elaine had been played, and her brothers wanted nothing more than vengeance for their baby sister’s virtue. Her eldest brother challenged the stable boy to a duel- when the sun rose the next morning, where her brother waited with their father’s pistol in hand, the boy never showed his face. 

Elaine feared the birth of her child, and how that would shake her world, but the day came much sooner than it was supposed to. Only a month later, her body rejected the pregnancy. As soon as she had recovered enough to travel, her Father sent her along with her brother to London. He said she had a second chance she shouldn’t throw away, to go find her a match and redeem herself– before there was a chance for word of her tainted virtue to spread. 

[aureliawindsor]

While Ellie’s slow approach made Riley nervous and the way her eyes moved over her face made her blush slightly, Riley made no move and simply watched as the beautiful girl teased her. Riley was usually quick-witted and more than willing to throw back a taunt but this felt different and she was left speechless. Her eyes flickered down to the hand that gently brushed her own and clenched it, feeling the need to control herself—though from what, she didn’t know.

She took a few deep breaths, not facing Ellie, hoping to calm her unexpectedly racing heart at the seemingly innocent moment, before finally turning around. There was no smile there, only confusion as she processed what she had just felt, and Ellie’s words weren’t making it any easier. She wanted to get to know her? “Why?” Riley asked, unable to contain her skepticism. She couldn’t understand what she was feeling so she retreated to logic. She didn’t like not understanding.

She shook her head, her eyes apologetic. “I apologize. I do not mean to accuse, but sometimes I struggle to understand what the point in building a friendship is with someone who has every intention of marrying and being whisked away to a far off estate. I do not mean to single you out. It is a general question, albeit an unasked question, with all the women I meet during the season.” She hated that she was suddenly being rude but Ellie’s actions—her words—were unnerving Riley and she didn’t like feeling this way.

[elainexhale]

All the playfulness melted away from the girl's expression as she listened to Riley, her smile turning warm and understanding. Of course she would be skeptical- it was only natural for someone of her station to ask questions and ensure nobody with ill intent was let too close.

"Because you're fascinating," Ellie said gently without missing a beat, completely genuine as she kept her gaze on Riley's face. She continued in a hushed tone, so anyone who passed by the heavy door might not accidentally hear, "You go to college lessons in trousers and a hat because you can't help not knowing. You're independent, intelligent, funny, and strong. And I know that just from one afternoon of knowing you. I want to know more."

Beautiful as well, but Ellie wouldn't embarrass herself by adding that to the ever growing list.

She gave the girl an earnest smile, standing from her seat. "And who knows how far I'll go? I might end up close to London, or back in the countryside." She took a half of a step towards the girl, not wanting to scare her but wanting to be a little closer. "And if I'm more than a walk away, carriages exist, as well as letters-- and I wouldn't be an obedient little wife who stays at home while my... husband is galivanting around the town." The last part was added with a small playful edge, making a little face at the word 'husband', hoping it would calm Riley's nerves at least a little.

Ellie scanned Riley's face, shrugging softly as she opened up completely. Riley seemed trustworthy, and she didn't mind being vulnerable if it would help them be friends. "Nobody really knows me either. Not even my family-- they see me as a child who can't make a decision or have an opinion without heavy guidance. I want someone to know me, and I really want to know you, Riley. Beyond the barriers of the season."

She took a step closer, then another, smiling up at Riley as she clasped her hands behind her back, "May I? Know you, I mean."

[aureliawindsor]

Riley couldn’t help but smile at Elaine’s words, agreeing whole-heartedly that marriage was a trap that allowed men to use their power. There seemed to be a hint of personal experience there but it wasn’t surprising when Ellie was raised by a brood of men. She had probably seen or heard firsthand their intentions.

“Marriage is how they keep us subjugated.” It was why Riley herself was so determined never to marry one. The moment she did, all her freedoms would fade away. She would be expected to let her new husband manage her estate and her money would no longer be her own. Who wanted that? Riley didn’t need some stranger to take care of her, her father ensured that much before he passed.

“Well, Ellie,” Riley tested out, figuring she would show the woman the same courtesy she was showing her, “you have caught me at my most scandalous so it is safe to say I have no reason to be anything but genuine.” Not that she was talking about it in the same context of what Ellie was, but friendships felt like they fell in the same category for Riley. It was hard to tell who genuinely wanted to be friends or who wanted to get close to her just for the title she carried.

“Everyone who has tried to marry me has not been genuine. I doubt they can be. I carry too many benefits that are hard to ignore in favour of simply my personality, and even that is distasteful to many men who want nothing more than an obedient mother to their children.” She sighed and shook her head. “None of them know me.”

[elainexhale]

A small wave of relief washed over Ellie as Riley agreed with her, more than happy she didn't step out of bounds and say something too intense. She loosened the grip on the book at her chest, letting her hands slide behind her back to hold it there instead as the comfort took down any walls that she might have built around her soul.

"You can rest easy knowing that I don't want to be close because of what you have to offer," She started, a playful glint in her eye as she took a step towards Riley. Ellie continued, teasing as she let her gaze briefly dance over Riley's face, "I want you close so that you might not be able to gain the speed to knock me off my feet again."

She brushed past Riley, her arm grazing against hers and a soft laughter escaping her as she walked toward the couch. "And, for the record, I like your personality. What I have seen so far, at least." Ellie sat on the couch, grinning over at Riley as she let any attempt left at a proper façade fade away, "And I'm looking forward to getting to know you more." She nodded towards the seat next to her, a silent request for Riley to join her.

[elainexhale]

Who: @ofravished Where: Almon's Books

Elaine browsed the various texts at Almon's Books, her arm full of classic texts as well as scientific journals and essays. Her recent conversation with Riley had ignited a new curiosity within her. She had not been able to put down the book the duchess had lent her, and thirsted for more knowledge like a man thirsted for water in the desert.

She pulled another book from the shelf, looking at the first page with a furrowed brow as she assessed if she wanted it or not. When she heard movement near her, her attention was quickly pulled away from the text. She smiled over at them, nodding gently towards the book as she held it up, "Have you read this one? I can't tell if I want it or not."

[aureliawindsor]

“I’ll make sure to tell my mother that you approve of my bedside manner. She would most likely credit herself for that accomplishment,” Riley replied, though there was a large grin on her face. It was nice to have someone who was so readily willing to believe that she could actually be a good surgeon if the world allowed her to. Perhaps she was being too trusting but Elaine was saying all the right things to make Riley comfortable enough to be honest.

“Well, if I shall be cursed with your presence from now on, I insist you call me Riley,” she stated, the smile on her face showing no hint that this was any such ‘curse’. “You are free to drop the titles and manners. They are quite a mouthful,” she smirked and gave Elaine a little nudge of her elbow, “and we both know I am not very graceful.” She wouldn’t force it but she truly believed that, in the spirit of friendship, titles were utterly unnecessary.

“But, of course, only when we are alone. My mother taught me everything I needed to know to secure myself a husband and she would be absolutely aghast if she knew I have no desire for formalities,” she paused and shrugged. Elaine already knew so much about her that it hardly hurt to tell her something else. “Though between you and me, I have no desire for many things my mother wants for me. I have no intentions of marrying a husband. I find men boring and unappealing. I do not intend on chaining myself to one for the rest of my life.”

[elainexhale]

"A miserable, thankless job, I'm sure- tolerating that," Elaine hummed, her own grin on her face mirroring Riley's. The wooden frame and leather bindings of the books pressed into her back as she leaned against the bookcase, feeling relaxed and comfortable for the first time in forever.

"Riley," She repeated, testing out the name as if testing the temperature of water before diving in. "Well, Riley, I wish I could follow in your footsteps. I have no desire to marry a man, even though I know I must marry someone by the end of the season." Her brows knit above her nose ever so slightly as her impending future nagged at the back of her mind.

She glanced down at the ornate rug, shaking her head, "It all feels like some awful game. Everyone using each other like chess pieces, marrying just for the sake of a shiny new title or money. I--" She paused her words and looked back to Riley, thinking of what she would say next for half of a moment. "Though men have most of the power, it seems like all they ever want to do is use us and our power. I don't want to be used."

Again.

Her gaze averted again, hoping the sadness in her tone didn't reveal too much once the words slipped past her lips. This time she focused on the little book she held.

"It feels a bit silly, wanting to marry someone simply because I enjoy their company, enough to wake up to them every morning. But with how concerned everyone is for their reputation, it's hard to know when they're being genuine and if you would actually..." Elaine shrugged, her smile softening, already resigning to her fate, "I'm not sure... get along, I guess."

She pushed herself off of the bookcase, her gaze finally returning to the woman as she pushed the thoughts of what waited for her out of her mind. She tried to pick up her tone, drawing a little smile on her face, "Anyways, please don't mind me if I try to live vicariously through you whenever I visit. And call me Ellie. Please. Or Elaine. Whichever. Miss Hale has always sounded so stuffy."

[cosmicretreat]

[aureliawindsor]

Elaine’s answer surprised Riley, admittedly not used to women who were interested in more than the latest fashions or gossip. Perhaps that was why she was so willing to keep Riley’s secret? An empathy and understanding towards wanting more than life had dealt them. “Journals,” Riley explained. “I recommend The Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society. They publish papers by various specialists in the fields of science. If one piques your interest, you can simply see if the author of the paper has published books.”

Riley had developed a system that resulted in the giant collection Elaine saw before her. No one had taught her how to do research or engage in academic discourse, but Riley stubbornly taught herself if no one else would. She was more than willing to impart her knowledge on other women who struggled with the same. “If you ever wish to borrow a book from me, you are free to.” She walked over to the shelf that Elaine was at and reached over her, pulling out the book she had just placed back and placing it in Elaine’s hands. “I insist. The duchess is requiring you to read to be in her company,” Riley teased, knowing that it was probably one of the goals for the night. Elaine’s family couldn’t complain about her reading up on topics that the duchess clearly wanted to talk about.

At the woman’s question, Riley blushed and nodded. “Yes, I am particularly interested in the medical sciences and the human body. I would have loved to have been a surgeon.” Riley shook her head, a sad chuckle leaving her. “Can you imagine the scandal? A woman of my status touching strangers and dealing with all the blood and taint of death and illness?” It was never to be so Riley had no choice but to indulge in simply the knowledge rather than the practice.

She looked down at Elaine’s covered arm and reached to gently take it in her hands. “If I may?” She pulled the sleeve back and carefully undid the dressing, her eyes searching the wound for any sign of infection or something more dangerous. Her actions were gentle, her eyes focused on its task. When she spotted nothing concerning, she nodded, pleased. “It may seem unorthodox, my lady, but ensure you clean this every day with a gentle dilution of whiskey and place a new clean dressing on it. It should prevent the wound from getting worse.” She carefully redid the dressing before returning Elaine’s arm to her.

[elainexhale]

Ellie made a mental note of the title, her expression growing more curious by the second as she watched Aurelia approach her. She looked down at the book as it was placed in her hands, the generous offer stealing the words from her mouth for a few moments. "Are you sure-" She had managed to stammer out before Aurelia continued to speak, her teasing words reigniting that smile of hers.

Elaine hugged the little book to her chest, listening intently to Aurelia's answers. "I feel as though us women can simply breathe incorrectly and be damned in society's eyes. It would, indeed, cause quite an uproar." A sad little laugh left her own lips, the bright curiosity on her features softening to a gentle fondness.

She looked down at her arm as Aurelia took it in her hands, the gentle, almost professional touch causing a blush to spread over her cheeks. Just as it did earlier that day, it caused her heart to flutter just a bit, even though she hadn't a clue as to why it would. Her gaze danced over Aurelia's face, and couldn't help but watch in awe as she examined her. The duchess was very pretty, and the focused look on her features was the most beautiful, elegant thing she had seen since arriving in London. Ellie became extremely aware of every breath, every little move she couldn't control, afraid that if she did any sort of movement that it would break Aurelia's focus and end the moment.

"A gentle dilution of whiskey," Elaine nodded and averted her eyes from Aurelia's face, slightly embarrassed of the involuntary reaction she had to the examination. "Understood." She took a small breath to compose herself, before returning her gaze to the duchess.

"It's a shame, how society places us in these boxes without our input or approval." She offered Aurelia a soft smile as her newly freed arm joined her other in hugging the academic book to her chest. "I would love to see you as a surgeon-- or anything in the medical field, your bedside manner is impeccable." Elaine laughed, and continued in a light teasing tone, "And while I hope there are not any more sudden collisions in the near future which I would need your attention, I'd be happy to listen to you speak of what you've learned. It's fascinating." She tapped her finger against the cover of the book, a playful glint in her eye, "That is, if you want. I'm afraid that, if I have it my way, you will be seeing quite a bit of me. If not to read and ask questions, then to simply talk and be in each other's company. I haven't had as much fun as I have had today in a very long time."

[aureliawindsor]

Riley wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth so when Elaine started pulling her towards the door, she all but ran to get away from everyone else. She took the lead and pulled Elaine upstairs, containing her grin as they rushed past all the confused footmen and maids to her favourite room. She closed the door behind them and took a deep relaxing breath. "This was my father's study," she explained, her eyes going up to the giant portrait of Prince Henry. "But it is mine now and it's my favourite room in this entire house."

All around them were various books that the family had gathered throughout the years and while she had a library back at the main estate, the London home contained its own impressive catalogue. "When you saw me this afternoon, I was rushing home from a lecture," Riley explained, running her hand over the spine of a medical book. "It is deeply unfair that women cannot attend university when all I want to do is learn. I have to resort to books on recorded lectures, disguises, and hiding..."

She didn't know what it was about Elaine, but she felt comfortable with the woman, enough to be honest about her desires and intentions. "There is not a day that goes by that I do not wonder what I would have been able to do, to accomplish, had I simply been born a man." She chuckled. "Instead of spending all this time looking for a husband, I would be doing something actually worthwhile."

She turned back to Elaine. "Are you debutting this season, Miss Hale? If so, I wish you the best of luck."

[elainexhale]

Ellie trailed behind Aurelia into the study, her eyes blowing wide when they gazed upon the shelves of books. Though she had cultivated her own impressive little library, she didn't have access to as many books as the ones that had a home along these walls.

She made her way to a neighboring shelf as she listened to Aurelia speak, her curious eyes tearing away from the scholarly titles and impressive leather bound spines to look at her. Elaine's first question had been answered before she could even ask.

"Yes, I'm afraid so," She breathed a soft laugh as she returned her gaze to the books, not wanting the reality of the world that awaited her past the heavy wooden door to take a hold of her. "I think we share a very similar desire, your grace."

Elaine plucked a little book from the shelf, a collection of essays from astronomers, a wistful melancholy ghosting over her features. "I had to fight and plead to learn what I have- begged my father to buy books for me and let me take lessons past any basic necessities my governess had to offer. Not that I blame them for the lack of extracurriculars, they were used to a band of brutes who would rather play soldier outside than read a book." She laughed gently as her hand ran over the cover, unable to look back over at the girl. It was embarrassing, knowing so little in the presence of someone who clearly knew worlds more.

"I never knew what questions to ask, or what text to request- but when I did find something-" She risked a glance over at Aurelia, her smile brightening a bit as those little moments of 'eureka' flooded into her memory. "I have never been more excited." Her eyes returned to the astronomy book, that familiar warm feeling of wonder flooding through her as she wondered just what the sky held. "Perhaps I would do something worthwhile too. But..." The brightness faded a bit as reality nagged at the back of her mind. "I am to play the part of a proper young lady-- one that needs to marry. It is my duty."

She placed the book back on the shelf, leaning against the wooden frame as she turned to Aurelia, "What would you want to do? If you were born a man, I mean." She glanced at the medical book the woman had trailed her hand along, "Would you be a physician?"

[elainexhale]

Elaine's warm smile faltered at the sound of the woman's warning, glancing over the area at the mention of watchful eyes. She hadn't really thought about it that way. In her youth, if she were playing with her siblings, roughhousing, chasing each other, anything- if one of their peers looked like they wanted to join in, Ellie was the first to extend a hand. The world is such a lonely place, why shouldn't she try to make everyone feel a little more included?

"Damnation?" Ellie repeated, returning her eyes to the woman. "You seem like a kind person, why would inviting you be damning?" She had only gotten into town two days ago, so she hadn't a clue about who anyone was yet, their stories, anything that might sway her opinions about someone one way or another.

[countenanced]

– "MAYBE A TAD DRAMATIC," LUCY TEASES HER, EYES SHINING. " well, if you even believe in damnation. but it's quite clear that i'm below your station, " she says, motioning to the bags in her arms and her clothing. elaine might have a naive look in her eye, but she knows all too well how often people talk. even so, lucy isn't used to this overtly welcoming treatment from the ladies of the ton. " but if reputation is of no concern to you, then i'd be pleased to be in your company. though unfortunately i'm in no position to play in the park right now, lady . . . ? " her brow arches curiously.

[elainexhale]

Elaine thought on the woman's words, wishing she had a little more worldly experience to understand what she was talking about. Sure, the woman was clearly below her station, as she said. But she was carrying dresses for a duchess, so clearly she wasn't so low that she was deep in society's trenches- right?

In the past, if Elaine were to make a decision that would harm her, she would quickly be moved away by her brothers or father, but they wouldn't usually explain why. Without the context, she was never sure what the point of problem was- and didn't know how to fix it.

"Hale," She let her knit brows relax from their confused contortion, bringing a small smile to her face. She tried to think on the books she's read, the things she experienced back at the Duchey, anything that might educate her decisions. She had learned the harsh truth that- there were so many things a woman could do wrong that would taint her reputation in the way she warned. Had this woman given herself to a man as she did? Something worse? Is that the fate that awaited her if she didn't wed this season?

"I apologize, I must confess I'm still learning the ways and the rules of this society. As well as who people are. That on the countryside doesn't feel as..." She tried to find a kinder, more proper word than the one she initially wanted to use, "strict as here. Or as intense."

She glanced around them, looking to see if any eyes had wandered their way. She was sent to London to protect whatever reputation she had, if this woman was so sincere in her warning, she couldn't help but feel a little wary- even if it did make her feel absolutely awful. She added quietly as her maid approached, ready to pull on Elaine's sleeve and pull her away if she kept playing with fire, "Sometimes it feels as if we women can't do anything right in the eyes of society, I'm sorry they have judged you so harshly, Miss...?"

[twilleigh]

elainexhale​:

The man’s playfully stern tone caused laughter to bubble from Elaine’s chest as she watched the ball return to its owner. Once it was secured with the boy, who was promptly called over by the other children, seemingly having grown tired of their own game, she turned back to the mud covered man.

“Hale,” She offered him a smile, bowing her head as she briefly curtsied. “Elaine Hale.” She continued in a playful tone, glancing over at the ball as it zoomed across the grass. “Heaven knows how dangerous a rogue ball could be. So I, for one, am glad you and your ankles were spared, Sir…?” She rose her brows at the man.

"Well, I do hope I didn't ruin your game, Miss Hale." He laughed shortly as the boy ran in the direction opposite of the duo.

"You are family to Viscount Hale?" Thomas asked and his butler promptly leaned forward slightly to whisper inconspicuously into his ear. He quirked a brow and nodded once, "His only daughter?" An awkward misstep but not beyond recovery.

"Oh, no 'sir' necessary, madam. Thomas William Leigh. It is a pleasure to be in such esteemed company though I do apologize for my rather soiled attire. I was just leaving the driving ring."

[elainexhale]

"Not at all," Elaine lightly replied, "He looked so upset that the others didn't want to include him, I couldn't help but try to cheer him up. One of my brothers was the same way when we were small. Seems to have worked well enough." She nodded towards the game in progress. It really felt like the least she could do, even though she wasn't a governess or anything of the sort. The sister in her just couldn't help it.

"That would be me, yes." She turned to him, a small laugh escaping her at his apology, before adding with a small playful edge, "No apologies necessary, Mr. Thomas William Leigh." Elaine looked down at her own hem, a bit grassy and muddy from her running in the grass.

"I seem to be in a similar position," She grimaced, only now realizing how unladylike she had actually behaved. "If anything it relieves me of being in mud ridden solitude. Though I am curious of how the driving ring accomplished this," She nodded towards his muddy clothes, her smile genuine though her tone was gently teasing.

[tolvajok]

Had it not been the wonderful idea of his mother to go for a walk in the early afternoon (the exact time half the ton decided to do the same, by the way), accompanied by her second son who was finally granted leave after such a long time of being away from home, Alex would've stayed at home. He even would've perhaps spent time in their gardens, in complete silence apart from the chirping of birds and buzzing of insects around him. He could've taken a well-deserved nap, even. Don't get him wrong, he adored his mother. But also, not quite so much, when she forced him outside.

But no. There he was, taking about half-steps for each of his mother's as she walked with him arm in arm, going on about how wonderful of a day it was turning out to be, her eyes constantly searching for connections, or possible situations to gossip about with the other ladies later. Meanwhile, Alex was merely humming in response, his face unamused, painful, even. It was simply all too much. Forcing a smile for each passer-by as a greeting. The small talk, to which he could barely add before his mother would take over the conversation. Not to mention how he terribly needed to sneeze, the blossoming flowers torturing his eyes and his nose.

Thankfully enough, they'd arrived to his mother's friends' usual spot to sit down and chatter sooner than he thought, and he was granted leave (this time from the ladies), and thus he could finally be on his own for a bit. He'd walked, slowly, overcome with thoughts on his own, and just as he wasn't quite paying attention to his surroundings, he felt something bump into his foot. It was only once he looked down that he saw the ball, the little boy, and the lady approaching.

Alex wasn't quite sure as to the relation between the child and the lady, as she seemed more like his sister, rather than his mother, but before he could finish his thought process, it dawned on him that he was expected to react.

A smile, belated, though much more genuine than the ones he'd thrown at other members of the ton just earlier, has crept over his lips as he glanced at the boy. "I wouldn't want to intrude in your playtime." Sadly, his eyes dropped to the ankles exposed from the skirt being pulled up slightly, and even if it was only for a moment, Alexander practically whipped his head away, avoiding eye contact with the lady. "I'm uh, quite alright, thank you, Miss--" It had only occurred to him then, that she was a new face. At least she was introduced to the ton sometime during his time away in the army.

[elainexhale]

"Not an intrusion at all, my lord." Elaine laughed gently as the boy came and got his ball, the friends who had seemingly just arrived at the park calling him over to play with them. The child gave the duo a little bow before tromping over to the others.

She turned to the man, surprised that he wouldn't make any form of eye contact with her. "Hale. Miss Elaine Hale," Elaine bowed her head before rose on her toes a bit, moving to the side to see if perhaps he would finally look at her again. "Are you alright, Sir...?"

[aureliawindsor]

Riley was thankful that her redirect worked and that Elaine had taken the fall for both of them when it came to playing. Still, as she started playing and singing, Riley couldn’t help but think she dodged a bullet. Her own musical ability couldn’t compare to Elaine’s and she was more than happy to not have embarrassed herself by trying. Her eyes were wide with awe as the girl performed, only briefly glancing away to gauge other people’s expressions. Her mother was visibly impressed but rest seemed to look at Elaine as if this were commonplace. Though to the Hales, it probably was.

With a voice like that, the woman was truly stunning.

When Elaine finished, Riley immediately clapped, a bright smile in her face. “That was beautiful,” she genuinely complimented, finding the girl evermore endearing by the moment. Despite Elaine knowing her secret, she was glad she came and Riley had a feeling they would be good friends from the way they were able to throw knowing smirks at one another throughout dinner, as if sharing inside jokes they didn’t know they had already made. “As a reward, I will gift you with a tour, Miss Hale,” Riley announced, approaching the girl with her hand offered.

[elainexhale]

As the last note rung out, Ellie spared a glance over at the group, a little nervous to see what they might think. Her family must have had a bias when it came to her playing, and she had grown accustomed to being silenced back in the Duchey. But she saw Aurelia's wide eyes and awestruck face, and her worries melted away.

A bashful smile pulled on her lips as she watched the girl approach, taking the girl's hand once she was close enough. Her eyes caught on their hands as she stood from the piano bench, unable to keep herself from thinking back to earlier that day and the little blush that accompanied it. After a moment, she remembered she should probably say something. "Thank you, I'd love that."

"Didn't you just receive a tour, Ellie?" Her brother piped up, giving her an inquisitive brow. He wanted to get more time with the young duchess as well, and his little sister appeared to be hogging her attention. If Elaine were to fail this season, if her secret were to be revealed, he wanted to make sure he was in a secure enough of a position to provide for her, as well as his own family when the time came. Marrying a duchess, especially one so close to the crown, would definitely secure all of their futures.

Elaine looked over at her brother, then back to Aurelia, that smirk tugging on her lips once more. "The first half of one, yes." She tugged on Aurelia's hand, taking a step back towards the door, the excitement of getting to know the woman just a bit more driving each little step, "But with a home as beautiful as your grace's," She looked back towards her brother, "there's too much to explore in such a little amount of time."

[aureliawindsor]

For the first time in…ever… Riley actually found herself smiling throughout a dinner that her mother was hosting. The Hale men weren’t half-bad and Elaine continued to shine so genuine throughout dinner. There were even moments of laughter as they would recount stories of some of their moments at their estates, though Charlotte learned soon enough that Miss Hale was not going to be the one to encourage femininity from her daughter—not when she was raised by a brood of men. Still, Aurelia needed friends to take her nose out of her books and the girl was lovely enough.

When Elaine mentioned the piano, Riley shrugged. “A staple in every house, I suspect,” she answered. She couldn’t remember the last time she had played that thing and only really played the piano when she was bored or ran out of books to read.

“Why don’t you play us a song, Aurelia?” Charlotte suggested.

Riley pressed her lips into a forced smile. “I’m sure that Miss Hale complimented it because she would love to try it, isn’t that right, Miss Hale?” Riley asked, hoping to get out of having to perform. It exhausted her social energy to engage in dinner already, let alone perform. “Please, I insist,” she offered, “I am sure your playing is much superior to mine.”

[elainexhale]

"Go ahead, Elaine," Arthur piped up, smiling at his daughter over the edge of his teacup. "She has become quite proficient, not only in playing the pianoforte, but singing as well. "

Elaine's cheeks flushed a deep rosy pink, looking from her father, to Charlotte, and over to Aurelia. It was no use to try to deny them, knowing Arthur would simply continue to insist until she played. It was one of the perks of having a daughter who, on paper, was accomplished- he could brag about the skills she had cultivated for herself. It didn't bother her, she was happy to make him proud- even if the reasoning for being proficient in this particular skill wore heavy on her soul.

"You speak too highly of me, Father. I wouldn't want to disappoint them." Ellie shook her head as a light laugh escaped her lips, "Very well." She looked over at Aurelia, and added quietly as she stood from the seat, "Then perhaps that tour-" The look in her eyes pleaded for a little bit of mercy, as she wasn't used to playing in front of an audience.

For years, while she was in the Duke's care, she played the piano every day. It was the only thing to do, as she had quickly read through the little library she had brought with her and he dismissed her requests for new stories most of the time, telling her the bible was the only book she truly needed. Every morning after breakfast, she would find her way to the drawing room on the far side of the manor, away from ears that could be annoyed by the continuous melodies, practicing her singing and her playing. Anything for a bit of an escape.

Ellie sat at the piano and became acquainted with the new instrument, her fingers sliding over the ivory and ebony keys as she thought of what to play. When she decided, she left her fingers deftly move across the keys, finally feeling slightly at peace for the first time in a long time- she hadn't felt the urge to play since she had been home. Her voice soon joined in on the melody, floating through the air with a gentle grace as the lyrics slipped past her lips. Her voice wasn't strong like that of an opera singer, but more along the likes of a siren that had strayed beyond the shore.

[countenanced]

– "IT IS FAR MORE LIKELY THAT I SHOULD WARN YOU to be careful, my lady, " lucy says, taking note of the woman's attire. because, of course, it is not her stature that gives away her station – though lucy has a tendency to be fond of that. the park would be a much more lively place if it were proper for ladies to play, to roll around on the grass and, well, to enjoy anything. " there are eyes everywhere, i am sure you know, " lucy adds. " to be seen roughhousing, well, i find it charming – but inviting me to join you ? could be damning, " she adds, though there's a slightly mischeivous shine to her eyes as she leans in. " i personally have little concern for damnation. though i do have a job to do, " she adds, holding up the packages in her arms – new dresses to be delivered to a duchess. best not to be late.

[elainexhale]

Elaine's warm smile faltered at the sound of the woman's warning, glancing over the area at the mention of watchful eyes. She hadn't really thought about it that way. In her youth, if she were playing with her siblings, roughhousing, chasing each other, anything- if one of their peers looked like they wanted to join in, Ellie was the first to extend a hand. The world is such a lonely place, why shouldn't she try to make everyone feel a little more included?

"Damnation?" Ellie repeated, returning her eyes to the woman. "You seem like a kind person, why would inviting you be damning?" She had only gotten into town two days ago, so she hadn't a clue about who anyone was yet, their stories, anything that might sway her opinions about someone one way or another.

[aureliawindsor]

The fact that Elaine was laughing along with her antics surprised Riley. She expected condemnation, or at the very least, bewilderment, but Elaine didn’t judge her and seemed curious about it all. Just that thought made a blush rise to Riley’s cheeks, but she quickly shook the thought away. This was their first time meeting so maybe she was just trying to make a good impression? Being the friend of a duchess definitely never hurt anyone’s chances in the marriage market.

“Yes, of course, though my London home is hardly comparable to my country estate in the Duchy,” Riley explained. “I shall invite you there some time. We can take my horses out and really enjoy the freedom of pants. Have you ever ridden with them?” Hidden away in the country, no one would really care if two ladies decided to ride horses wearing men’s pants—it was the practical choice—and Riley felt so much freer without the watchful eyes of everyone around them.

She took the offered arm and led Elaine back inside before the footman could even announce dinner. When they arrived in the dining room, her mother seemed pleased that the both of them were smiling. Aurelia rarely took a liking to anyone, man or woman, so Charlotte was more than happy for her daughter to befriend someone—especially if that someone could teach her daughter the value of marriage.

Aurelia took her place at the head of the table and she didn’t miss the way that Elaine’s brother was strategically sat by her side. He was to be the future Viscount so they wouldn’t make a half-bad match at all. Nevertheless, Elaine was also close by and Aurelia spent the evening directing every question to her back at her newfound friend instead of her brother since Riley was definitely much more interested in the former.

[elainexhale]

"I haven't, but I would really love to," Elaine's smile only grew brighter at the offer, grateful to have found someone who she not only greatly enjoyed the presence of, but seemed like a someone she could trust. Their home back in the countryside was so far away from town, they rarely had visitors as a result. When Ellie did go into town, it wasn't easy to make friends with her siblings helicoptering around her, making sure she didn't get hurt. "I was taught to ride aside because of my skirts- and I always feel like I am going to be thrown off my horse with a strong gust of wind. It'd be nice to ride and actually be able to enjoy it."

She followed Aurelia inside, shifting the conversation to something a little less implicating for the ears that listened to them, while still asking Aurelia about herself. She was intrigued by her, like a puzzle she desperately wanted to take her time with. Though her social skills weren't incredible, her intellectual thirst kept the words flowing from her mouth with ease as their families ate, taking the questions Aurelia directed at her and posing her own in return.

Once everyone was full and happy, they retired to the drawing room, where the conversation continued. Ellie had taken a seat next to Aurelia on one of the loveseats, quietly whispering little remarks and anecdotes in which she made fun of her brother when he said something she found particularly ridiculous.

Her gaze drifted over the room once the conversation had died down a little, her cheeks aching a little from smiling at all of the amusement, her eyes catching on a grand piano in the corner. "Your pianoforte is gorgeous, your grace," She smiled over at the Dowager Duchess, then over to her newfound friend, "It makes me miss the one we have back home."

[mccnbeam]

"The offer is kind, my lady. And I am in wholehearted agreement." The primary concern is, of course, the gloves. Lifting them from the mud, Devika held them out to examine, tilting her head with a resigned sort of frown. It was hard to tell now, with wed dirt caked along the seams, but at one time, they had been an extravagance. "Do you suppose they're a lost cause?"

[elainexhale]

Elaine took the next few steps towards the woman, joining her in looking over the pair of stained gloves. "Oh--" She tried to hide her grimace, though she had never been very good at concealing her emotions. "I suppose--" She began, her voice a half of an octave higher as she tried to sound optimistic. "Water and soap have worked wonders before, but it might be reasonable to look for a secondary pair." She offered a little empathetic smile, they did look like they were once a beautiful piece.

"I was actually just on my way to the Modiste to inquire about some cold weather options myself, before the surge of gowns that will definitely be ordered once the season begins to gain speed. Would you like to accompany me and see what options they have?"

[latetobloom]

Emmeline nearly jumped at the woman who approached her. "Oh! Uhm...yes...yes they are quite lovely. They...they are quite cute." They brought her solace. Peace and quiet. To rival the screaming and shouting in her head every time she blinked. Nodding at her request to join her, she moved a bit so the other had room to sit down. "Yes, h-here. Please, sit." Her French accent was so hard to hide, even with her being in the country for four years.

[elainexhale]

Elaine sat next to the woman, nodding to her maid to have her bring over her little picnic basket. She had hoped the ducks would be out today, and she brought just the thing if they were.

"On peut les nourrir si tu veux," we can feed them, if you want, she said as she pulled a small satchel of oats from the basket. She had noticed the woman's accent and was suddenly very grateful she had her governess teach her when she was young. She looked quite distressed, maybe it would help to hear something relatively familiar.

With her mother dying shortly after she was born, Elaine was raised by a household of boys- with no way of teaching her to be a proper, accomplished young lady. Her Governess did her best, but often times Ellie would be pulled away from her lessons by her father and brothers to join them in their games and adventures. So instead of learning different languages because it was the proper thing to do, she begged her Governess, who was French, to teach her her language so she could feel more at home in their manor.

Ellie took a little handful of the oats and tossed it in the direction of the ducks before holding the little bag towards the stranger. "ça va, ma dame?" You okay, my lady?