Eyes on the prize, we rise

Mumu blog for londonhigh-society

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Renee Almeida and Alara Sari (@whisperedmelody)

Long fingers brushed the keys, lightly at first before the crescendo of the music; the piece she had chosen was a sweeping piece that demonstrated (at least in her rich inner world) the love that she felt inside, a love that remained unspoken in public. She hoped that wherever Ece was, she could hear, but when she finished playing and she looked up from the black and white, her eyes met those of Alara Sari, not her sister. "Lady Alara, did you want a turn playing? Your sister tells me that you are quite skilled and I would love to hear you play."

[gcddcsscs-deactivated20250829]

devi smiled and looked at renee: "and yet, this is the story of my life. you would be surprised to see the number of suitors i met in india, who walked away and said i wasn't the woman of their dreams." she chuckled, remembering how one acted so dramatically. the moment his eyes had laid upon her, he panicked and walked away. devi was used to this, she wasn't affected anymore. however, being in an unknown country was making her less strong and more sensitive. as renee mentioned their friendship, devi offered her a warm smile. "i am very thankful to have your friendship, renee. this is something i shall cherish dearly." she said genuinely. "we shall see, i just don't expect much of this season." she simply stated as she looked around. "i certainly won't accept everybody, i have my own trust issues. but rest assured, your spot is safely guarded in my heart." she smiled at her as she took another sip of her tea.

[unlacedandundone]

"I think they need to get their eyes checked," Renee responded, perhaps a little too quickly. "Sorry." After years of practice, she usually kept those kind of responses on the inside, but when Devi talked about how alone she'd felt with the situation in India, Renee could not quite help herself. "I just know that things will change here. I mean the season is still new. There is time." She almost wished the whole season would end so she could stop the falsities and pretending; everytime she pretended that her heart was in the market, she made even more of a liar of herself. However, it was Ece that made Renee believe so fiercely that Devi would find her own love. "I wish I could do more to help, but I truly speak to so few men that I could not give you a heading. I am far more comfortable letting the piano speak for me."

[regcncys]

✱     𝚂𝚃𝙰𝚃𝚄𝚂    :       closed , from marcella to renee ! ✱     𝚂𝙴𝚃𝚃𝙸𝙽𝙶  :       undecided ! ✱     𝚃𝙰𝙶𝙶𝙴𝙳  :       @unlacedandundone !

……………𝙰     𝙶𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙻𝙴𝙽𝙴𝚂𝚂     𝚃𝙷𝙰𝚃     𝙸𝚂     𝚁𝙰𝚁𝙴𝙻𝚈     𝚂𝙴𝙴𝙽     lingers     in     her     smile     as     slender     fingers     untangle     hair     ,     careful     not     to     snag     and     tug     against     the     scalp     .     “     how     do     you     get     yourself     into     this     mess     ?     ”

[unlacedandundone]

Careful fingers combed through Renee's thick ebony tresses; it was not an easy task, working through long curly tendrils that wrapped themselves around some leaves and small twigs. Few people had the patience to tackle the burden that Renee's hair was when it tangled and she would trust fewer people still, but Marcella, her cousin, was closer to her than most. Still, in spite of that trust, Renee bit her lip when the time came to tell her of the mess. The truth was that she and Ece had to duck into the garden to avoid being caught and she had tumbled into a bush, instead, she offered. "I was in the garden and I tripped into the bush. You know that my grace is not my strongest suit unless I am behind a piano."

[bakerece]

@unlacedandundone

Ece, when she'd taken her leave of her estate, found herself where she always did. Wandering to the Almeida estate to find her dearest one. A smile on her face and whistledown in her hand, she knocked thrice on her lover's ground-floor windowpane, before coming around the front door to be let in. "May I see Renee?" She asked a servant, who dutifully took her to the woman's quarters. "Good morning!" She called as she opened the door.

[unlacedandundone]

Three taps on the window and Renee's day grew inconceivably better, as if the sun had arisen anew. Not typically one for vanity, she nonetheless looked in her mirror and smoothed her hair and dress before sitting on the bed; it was an attempt to appear casual, one that was broken as she immediately leapt up to greet Ece. "A better morning now that you're here," she announced happily, her hands grasping Ece's tightly and almost pulling her into the privacy of her room. The door closed, providing a barrier between the two of them and the outside world. Alone, at last, Renee closed the gap between the two of them and pressed her forehead to Ece's softly. "You look beautiful this morning. If I'd have known that you were coming early, I would've gone to the garden to get you some flowers."

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Renee Almeida and Nadir Sari (@ofromantiics)

Were it not for certain circumstances, Renee had to admit that wooing a woman as another woman was considerably easier than doing so as a man. Where male and female visits had to be chaperoned, she could almost always see Ece as she pleased as long as she came to the house as an announced guest; it was a privilege she and Ece used often, making excuses to spend as much time together as possible. It did however lead to moments where Renee was locked in conversation with Ece's siblings while she finished something or other; still, anyone who was important to Ece was important to Renee so, despite her lack of small talk, she did her best to seem affable.

"I think that Lady Whistledown must not have truly seen the party that your family threw. I was quite impressed with it. I am sorry that she wrote what she did," Renee said to Nadir as she waited.

[scnsibilitics]

For a brief moment she had somehow managed to disregard her accent and how it disclosed her identity. But that wasn’t what truly shocked her, no. It was that someone - other than a family member - was inquiring about Ireland. The mere thought of her homeland filled her with a sense of warmth and joy. “Every morning.” Fondness laced into her tune. “I like to think myself proficient with horses, but one musn’t be too arrogant. Though my siblings liked to call me the horse whisperer.” Her laugh resonates through the air. Almost on cue with Achilles’ introduction, Mercy’s mare took a few steps toward them. “Well, Achilles, Halla and I are pleased to make your acquaintance.” After greeting Achilles her attention returns to Jack. She bows in sequence, following him there isn’t much curtsying to be done in a saddle. “Jack Fairfax,” echoed him, trying to recall if her aunt and uncle had mentioned the Fairfax family prior to meeting him. “England is well enough. The queen is slightly frightening, but the scenery makes up for it.” It comes off as a jest, but there’s a shred of truth to be found in the words. “I almost forgot to introduce myself; how impolite of me. My name is Mercy.”

[unlacedandundone]

"It must've been a beautiful sight. When people in London talk about Ireland, they just mention the green. I must admit, so much nature does have an appeal when one is used to London." Jack had traveled in his younger years; his father thought it prudent that a young man spend time in other places to immerse themselves in culture. He had been to Venice, Amsterdam, and Paris, but never to Ireland though it seemed so close. Then again, his father had never been one to spend time where there was no bustling night life. "And if your siblings call you a horse whisperer then I'd believe them. They are usually our largest critics." At least Henry could be; he assumed all older siblings had the same energy.

Jack cannot help but smile at her laughter and he finds himself chuckling as well, noting its musical sound. He patted Achilles' side, loosening the reins so that the naturally curious horse could get closer and sniff, making his own introduction. She says his name as if testing it against her knowledge of the ton; luckily, she might not know him yet. After all, though nothing about him is known to the public, rumors abound, but instead she settles on England. "The Queen is terrifying, but to fear her displeasure is the badge of the elite. She has been through much since the King's...illness." It was the polite word they all used. "Still, you are right that London is beautiful. Have you been to Vauxhall Gardens yet? You must go. It is thrilling." A small part of him hoped that she would say no, that he might offer himself, a reason, perhaps, to get to know her and hear her laugh a little more. "Mercy indeed. It is a pleasure to meet you."

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Jack Fairfax and Astoria Blackwell (@whisperedmelody)

It wasn't as if Jack disliked parties really- in fact, he was quite fond of them- but, as this party wore on, he had found himself wishing to be anywhere but there. There was simply too much formality and mooning, and all the awkward flushing and demuring grated on Jack's patience. The endless barrage of tinkling laughter and pastel dresses rustling made Jack think that maybe he'd died and this was some sort of purgatory, at least until he saw a face among the crowd, one that expressed a similar ennui as she danced around the ballroom. Cutting in, Jack took Astoria's hand and spun her out to dance with him. "Let's get out of here before we both die of boredom. I hear they have a new tight-rope walker at Vauxhall Gardens and fireworks. Maybe they even have the balloon going tonight. Say you'll come."

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Jack Fairfax and Alexander Fairfax (@timearcs)

Jack stumbled out the door with a raucous laugh, barely able to keep himself and the lady at his side aloft as they ventured downstairs towards the bar; no one looked twice at the Fairfax boy here. The madame of this particular establishment had been an old favorite of his father's and she had loved the Fairfax boys since they were far younger men. There were other places that Jack could go to have a drink and some companionship, but none ever felt quite as right. Jack was almost a part of the place at this point; they were used to him coming in bloodied from his matches with money in hand. Where there was a Fairfax, there was always a party. Tonight it seemed they would have double the enjoyment as not only Jack was there. "Alex! My brother! You are here! Where have you been all evening? I want all the sordid details," Jack called, clapping his brother hard on the shoulder and ordering more drinks.

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Jack Fairfax and Marcel Fournier (@fortuneandfeasibility)

Dinner parties were always a sure sign that the season was in full swing; the moment after the debut, invitations were sent out, requesting the family's presence at the home of this lord and that. Most of these dinners were bland affairs; before dinner and during, at least there was music and pretty women to keep the eyes busy. Afterwards, the men retired for brandy and cigars and sometimes a few parlor games, never as amusing as what Jack might find on a night out. Stuck in the smoke-filled stuffy parlor, he found himself longing for less venerable company. He grabbed another glass of brandy and took a long gulp from the glass before walking over to where a game of cards was going on. "Mind if I cut in. I am bored to tears and it looks like you're going to need a new partner soon," Jack said to Marcel, nodding at his partner's lack of chips.

[gcddcsscs-deactivated20250829]

his words made her smile, although her green hues looked sad. with all the hectic weeks they had gone through, kate barely saw her viscount. he was of course getting used to his new role. her love for him was stronger than ever and it would never change. but deep inside, the brunette dreamed of one night alone with him, one night where the two of them would simply focus on each other and not of all the tragedies and miscarriages she had gone through. "i wish we could enjoy a ball. an evening out." she smiled back at jack and shook her head. "i would love to find our happiness, i am just... feeling that the universe isn't that nice to us lately." she chuckled before then hearing his next words. "of course i know you. this is why i am asking you again: are doing well?" she asked before then adding. "you know that whatever you say to me remains between us. i will always value our friendship."

[unlacedandundone]

Jack had never been a man for subtleties or nuance, nor did he particularly favor the idea of love, but the sadness in his friend's expressive jade eyes were difficult to miss. "Then go out Kate. Damn his duties and all his responsibilities. You walk in there, flash him your most enticing smile, and tell him that he owes his wife a night on the town. You deserve a break. He deserves a break. He might not be able to be the one to suggest it but...he needs a distraction from it all, especially the loss." For a moment, Jack's face almost fell into something solemn as the thought of his father hovered at the edge before he'd pushed it aside. Hadn't he just been speaking of distractions? "I am always well Kate as long as there are drinks and fun to be had, and the season always has plenty of both." He wiggled his brows though her searching eyes continued to look a little deeper than he'd like. "Thanks for always keeping my secrets."

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Renee Almeida and Audrey Liew (@ofintentions)

Renee's fingers hovered over the keys of the piano for a moment after playing and her eyes opened to inspect the world around her. Playing, even with eyes upon her was a nearly magical experience; when the music began, all the rest seemed to slip away. But when she finished, there was always a sense of exposure and for a moment, she was laid bare to the world. Excusing herself from the get together, she stepped out onto a patio and took in the air, only to find that she was not the only one there. Audrey Liew also stood outside, the sky painted a dusky purple as the twilight set in. "It's a wonder to find such a sky above such a sprawling city," Renee murmured. "Do you ever wonder how it must look in other places away from London?"

[scnsibilitics]

If they hadn’t been enveloped in the seclusion of the timber, Mercy might have been more concerned about happening upon a man. There was no chaperone in sight but no other individual either. The horse beneath her comes to its own halt. Her frame leans forward to brush against her in admiration, whispering to it words of praise. “Morning rides are most delightful,” mused in agreement as she rose back up. “The sky, the smell of dew among the grass, the slight chill in the air.” Mercy could go on about mornings, but she did not wish to bore him. Instead, shifts toward his compliment. It is kind but incites a pain that radiates among her chest. The horse was beautiful, indeed. She believed every horse to be. But it was not the one she had grown up with, the one she had been forced to leave behind in Ireland. Thoughts better left unsaid, but it evoked the memory of her nonetheless. “We have only met just recently,” she admitted, petting her fondly again. “I believe we shall become the closest of friends within time.” A smile curls onto her lips. “What of your own?”

[unlacedandundone]

"My sentiments exactly," Jack agreed, looking up at the sky and taking a deep breath, the chill air filling his lungs. "The chill is enlivening, just the right amount of brisk to get the day started before breakfast." And riding always made him hungry, though perhaps it was just that he had been awake for too long. Her accent and her words about only recently meeting her horse gave him a moment's pause as he wondered who she was before things fell into place. "For only having met recently, you have an ease while riding. You must be an admirable horsewoman. Did you ride in the mornings in Ireland too? I've heard the scenery there is second to none, though I have never been Miss Byrne." That she was a Byrne was doubtless; everyone had heard about it when they'd come to the ton. The question was which she was. "This is Achilles," Jack chuckled, patting his horse's neck. Achilles seemed to sense that the focus had turned to him and shook his head. "He fancies himself a grand warhorse," Jack jested, shaking his head. "Lucky for us both that he's never been tested. I am Jack Fairfax, by the way. I probably should introduce myself as well." Jack bowed slightly. "How are you finding England? I am sure that it must be different from home."

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Jack Fairfax and Daeron Seymour (@ofintentions)

Jack, though prone to troublesome behavior, was rarely surreptitious, especially when entering his own home. However, on this day, he was making something of an effort as he snuck past his brother's study only to find his brother's friend Daeron coming out. Trying to quiet him, Jack shook his head and put a finger to his lips, hoping the reason for his secrecy was plain to see. The younger man stood in front of Daeron with no jacket, an undershirt untucked from his pants, and a rather sizeable cut on his brow. He motioned for Daeron to follow him into the next room, peeking into the hall to make sure that they were not overheard before turning back to Daeron. "You cannot tell Henry you saw me. I got into a bit of a tussle with a man who I assumed was the father of this young lady and it turned out that it was her fiance. He found us...conversing as it were and we got into it a bit. If Henry knows, he's gonna try to make me go back or apologize or something and I'd rather just avoid it so if you could pretend you didn't see me, I'd owe you."

[gcddcsscs-deactivated20250829]

devi looked down as she heard renee's words. she was right, no one had to come from abroad to feel this way. her heart clenched at the thought that someone else could possibly feel as miserable as she was. her dark hues looked back at her friend. "when you become one's last choice, you always are." she said in a bittersweet tone. "whether india or england, i shall believe that no suitors will want me unless they are desperate and i am the last available lady of the tone." she chuckled despite the sad statement. at the mention of making friends, devi smiled shyly: "that's all i am here for. i would love to at least have friends i can rely on, friends i can be here for. if am to die as a spinster, i shall still try to die as the greatest friend one could wish."

[unlacedandundone]

"I cannot believe that you could ever be someone's last choice," Renee sighed; then again, what she found valuable was not always what people seemed to choose. Still, if Ece had made her believe in anything, it was that everyone had someone even if it was not always apparent. "Well, you may at least consider that you do have one of those. You shall have at least one good friend. And as your friend, believe me when I say that I think you just need to give it some time. You'll get to know people soon and then, once people know more about you, they will flock to you. The hard part will be finding out who you will wish to accept."

[unlacedandundone]

Closed starter: Jack Fairfax and Sophie Carlisle (@aristccrats)

It had been a tumultuous start to the season; there had been so much loss as of late, so much turbulence, but, while Jack had little care for the ton's opinions, there were those he cared about who had much more at stake. That the Carlisle's had suffered since Edwin's imprisonment was an open secret, but that stress had been compounded with Sophie being named the Emerald of the Season. Jack knew his friend, knew how she bore the weight of her family's name on her shoulders as well; this title had thrust her into the spotlight and, though she deserved all the admiration in the world, he worried that the attention would weigh upon her. He journeyed to her house and announced himself, being led to the parlor to wait for her. When he saw her, his face split into a grin and he gave her an exaggerated bow. "Would the Emerald of the ton consent to a promenade with an old friend? I promise I will be on my best behavior."

[gcddcsscs-deactivated20250829]

kate looked at jack and nodded at his words. "i do hope so. we've been through a lot these pas few months. i wouldn't want something else to damage the family." at the mention of lady whistledown, kate sighed and shook her head. "i must admit that i feel slightly anxious about that one as well. i am aware of most scandals but also know that the hamptons family is never safe from those gossip papers." she gulped as she remembered the look on people's faces when one of those newspapers stated her lack of providing heirs to her husband. it was hurtful enough for her to avoid the ton for a whole season. jack's words about the honeymoon period made her smile sadly. "i am not sure if we are in the honeymoon period anymore. after the accident, everything changed." she sighed and looked back at her friend. "how are you doing? is the ton treating you well?"

[unlacedandundone]

"With any luck, the events of the past few months will be replaced with some respite. I know it's been hard to gain any footing, but maybe the season will allow for some kind of fun. You and the Viscount deserve to at least enjoy a ball or two," Jack added with a shrug. By all accounts, marriage was a daunting prospect, one where duty overrode pleasure, but Kate had married for love; why should she not enjoy the season without the pressure of the marriage mart? "You both deserve to just enjoy each other, especially with all that has happened." If anyone deserved happiness, Kate was among them whereas Jack tended to bring about his own trouble. At her question he nearly barked a laugh. "Better than I am treating it probably. You know me. I keep myself entertained."

[decayingfm]

"who do you suppose lady whistledown is? clearly someone with a lot of time on their hands..." she adjusts a bracelet on her wrist. she was a little pleased that some of the drama was away from her family- but she knew that could change. "i am sure, all they write is lies. i don't believe anything they have to say."

[unlacedandundone]

The thought of some shadowy figure watching all of them to expose their secrets had sent a chill through Renee; even she had secrets. What if someone was watching her as well? The only comfort she could find was that perhaps others would brush off the pamphlets as Alice seemed to be. "I think it is very easy to spread falsehoods from behind a printing press. I just can not think who would want to do so."