Afternoon Stroll [Tag: Twilyte]

[Isabella Alexandrine]

No normal afternoon was complete for Isabella until she had taken a stroll. Being in Grand Elysium, she felt it only fitting that she take frequent strolls through the city itself, though she would never presume to step outside the Sericite District. There was no telling how clean those other areas might be--and the ruffians!

Perish the thought, Isabella reflected to herself. It would worry Mother so if I were to go somewhere I don't belong. And even with that thought in place, something else began to stir inside her, a calling to see something different, born from the notion that to learn requires one to gain new experiences. Perhaps I will meet someone new. If Mother objects, I can just tell her I was testing myself.

There was enough sunlight where taking a parasol seemed prudent to Isabella. She had a complexion to maintain and would not have it blemished just at the height of November. Autumn was not a time to let a refined lady's skin be damaged, lest she carry that damage into Winter.

Having made her preparations, Isabella went out into the city, curious as to what she might find. Her heart beat within her jacket, doing what it could to help keep her warm. The breeze wanted to take not only her parasol, but her hat as well. She suspected it would take her skirts, should it be given the chance. Allowing herself a single laugh at the notion, Isabella ventured toward an array of shops, each beckoning for her to partake of its treasures.

It was unusual for those of Isabella's Class to venture out unwarranted, but it was little concern for Isabella herself. She wanted the open air as much as the safety of her home; there was no reason why she could not sample both. Besides, there was something else she was after.

Most looked at the old medicine shop and simply dismissed it, especially when better and newer medical services could be found only a short distance away. This particular shop was very familiar to Isabella, as it had been a frequent destination for her and her sister when they were growing up.

Just inside the lobby, she caught the lingering scent, something her body whispered that it wanted. It couldn't hurt to go in for a moment, especially since Isabella had no pressing plans. Just a half an hour, that's all.

Her greeting was by a think doorman with a somber expression present throughout his body. Isabella tilted her head at the doorman, holding her parasol, contracted, aimed at the floor in front of her. "Is there something the matter, Mr. Chesterfield?"

"Yes, my lady, there is." He glanced down, perturbed and not wanting to express the feelings running through his heart. "We've run out of supplies."

"Run out?" Isabella couldn't believe it. For a den to run out of opium was almost like sucking all the oxygen from the air. She just didn't think it was possible.

Further apologies came, but the best idea Isabella had come up with on her own had failed. She was downtrodden as she walked outside, extending her parasol once more. Without the ability to soothe her old addiction, Isabella thought she should partake of something simple and relaxing and satisfying. Her steps were slow as she tried to take her mind off the fact of her addiction. True, it had been tempered over time, but time had not erased her desire for opiates. Before, she had been tempted to deal with Laudanum, but having seen the lingering effects felt it would be adverse to the image she wished to put forward.

It would be better if I did something where I could be social. The moment she had the thought Isabella moved toward a lovely cafe just to the side of a row of shops. It was bustling with customers, quite the opposite of the last place she stopped. Looking inside, there was a single table remaining, at least a table fitting Isabella's standards or cleanliness and decorum.

Isabella went to the table, confident in her stride. A waiter suddenly appeared, acting as though he had diligently escorted her inside just to offer her a proper seat. She sat, allowing the waiter to adjust the seat for her, giving a kind smile as the only necessary reply. Before the waiter could ask for her order, Isabella said, "I would love a cup of warm tea."

The waiter perked up, straightening his back and putting on a pleased grin. "A cup of warm tea at once for the fine lady." And he was off, somehow thinking his flattery had given him enhanced strength.

Quietly, Isabella regarded the cafe and the view it gave. The sun was still bright in Grand Elysium, making many feel safe and free to roam through the city. For a moment, Isabella was simply pleased with what she had.

[Twylite]

She was dizzy. The sun was out and warm, but she didn't carry the parasol she was supposed to have taken with her, she didn't need one, her skin was already bronzing due to an increase of sunlight.

Her clothes...which were new when she arrived yesterday afternoon were torn and ripped, she had left her jewels at home this time around, thank heavens, since she had no idea what to expect in Elysium. She had made a habit of keeping her money tucking away in her bodice, which thanks to her anger and annoyance had no sleeves and exposed a good portion of her body. Her hair had been washed and brushed by maids earlier that day, only to be messed up once she ditched her father.

Looking around Twylite's brown eyes drank in the foreign world. If she was in Tychite she would have known the way around perfectly, due to her scarce yet long adventures in the slums of her home city. She was known as Tip there, though no one would be able to put together that it was just a name created from her first, middle and last name. She was sought out in the slums for medical help, yet none could find her because people only knew the name, not the face, of the enigma she had created. This was good since her father would most likely shun her and lock her in the house until he was ready to throw her into the arms of a rich, well off old[/i] man.

She quickly shook the thoughts away. She had temporarily escaped and she was going to enjoy her freedom. She noted that she was getting some strange looks being dressed the way she was and still in the better part of town. Biting her lip she attempted to keep her face from heating up as she walked towards the slums.

She was shy and she knew it. she couldn't openly confront the people in Tychite, she would roam around listening to gossip and observe people, before brushing by them or following them home, stalker-ish yes she knew, but if a family member was hurt she would follow and watch for a while before figuring out a way to get into the house unnoticed, heal the injured party and then leave, after leaving a signed note from Tip.

She giggled at this thought before she stopped in front of a cafe. it was one of the better ones, lots of service, not many people from the higher district would be found in there. She shrugged, she was getting thirsty, perhaps some white wine or tea? Maybe a cup of ale, though she was certain they wouldn't have the rather delicious drink here. She had become quiet found of the drink, it was an odd tasting one, but she loved the feeling, though she never had more than one, it was all she needed.

Cheerfully the teenager stepped into the cafe and took a seat at one of the tables. It was littered with trash from the previous customer. Sighing she looked up as a waiter came by, ignoring the trash on the table. "We don't serve your kind here,"

Twylite rolled her eyes. She sat up perfectly straight like she was trained and looked the waiter in the eye. She didn't like being mean to someone working, but she had to be convincing. "Excuse me? My kind? Last I checked I woman who has money, could eat wherever she likes. Perhaps I should call the guards. They know who I am after all," her sweet voice was dripping with authority, it was unusual and she didn't like the taste it left. "ow I would well much like a glass of your finest white wine. I can afford it do not worry or ask questions!"

She was repulsed by her actions, but didn't show it. her face was blank and her eyes burning. The waiter jumped after a moment and scurried off to get her drink. Crossing her arms Twylite looked out the window and sighed. She wanted to be in a bar. The talk and chatter there was more amusing than what was going on here. "Stupid Oaf. wouldn't be able t' do anythin' lest he be shouted at," She murmured reverting to a tongue she was comfortable with.

[Isabella Alexandrine]

A proper cup sat in front of Isabella, steam rising from one edge. She glanced into the slight swirl of the tea, adding in a small measure of milk. The vortex took to life once again, filled with two bands of color mingling to become one. A slight sprinkling of sugar fell through the thin warm cloud, sweetening the aroma.

It wasn't something Isabella was able to do every day, taking a cup of tea among others, people she didn't know. Her thoughts had settled, though she wanted them to flare up again. Something had to spur her out of complacency. She looked around knowing she would find nothing of the sort, nothing to pique her curiosity at all.

So, she continued with her tea, stirring it lightly before taking up the cup itself. Her small fingers lifted the tea to her lips. It filled her throat and tingled her stomach. Just the kind of momentary relaxation she'd been looking for, though not as intense as she'd hoped.

The moment was short-lived. Voices began to rise, clashing against one another. Someone was being barred entry for one reason or another. A young woman of both refined and common bearing was being harassed by a waiter. There was something about her that continued to draw Isabella's attention, even after their squabble had come to a close.

Calling on her own waiter, she thought a touch of courtesy might be in order. "Excuse me, but I'd very much like that young lady's expenses covered on my bill."

A perplexed eyebrow lifted as the waiter studied Isabella's lips. "The young lady? Surely you don't mean the girl who claimed to have money--"

"I do." Isabella took the smile from her face, at once, leaving only an air of dignity that she tried to impress upon the waiter. "I didn't know my friend would be able to meet me here on such short notice and I will have her well treated. That is, unless you have suddenly become allergic to my money as well."

She'd gotten the waiter's attention. He stiffened for a moment before taking a step back. "I will see to the arrangements at once. No need to worry."

As the waiter scurried away, Isabella allowed herself a tiny smirk. I'm sure I won't have to worry at all.

Rising to her feet, she took a short walk, approaching the young woman she'd called friend. Though the young woman seemed to be of a weathered appearance and had gotten involved in too much physical labor, there was something in her that appealed to Isabella, something full of life and refinement. "Hello," Isabella said to the young woman. "Would you care to join me? I promise I won't bite."

[Twylite]

Twylite's head snapped up at the osund of someone talking to her. She looked the older woman up and down quickly noting her attire, she was definitely well off. Her brown eyes were curious as to why the woman would want to have her company, she certainly wasn't dressed like she should have money, then again that was what she was aiming for.

the thought struck her after a moment of thought. "Do you assume That I have no money?" She questioned her voice melodic and sweet, innocent and naive, just like her.

She knew the waiter was probably going to ignore her request for the finest wine, but was hoping just a little bit that he wouldn't. She might have been under age and not supposed t drink-according to her father-but she really didn't care, she needed to relax and this was her way of doing it.

She hesitated a moment more before standing to follow the young woman. She let out a laugh as she looked at herself and the stranger, they looked like an odd pair of friends. "I'd love to join you. Though I'd be careful, people think I do not have money," she stifled her laughter and shook her head.

She pulled out her coin purse that she had tucked away in her bosom to keep anyone from actually trying to steal her money. She held it opened to reveal several gold and silver coins, along with the odd red gem. "My father thinks that he can keep away the money that I rightfully own,"

She knew that the woman could easily think she was lying and that she had stolen the money from another, she just hoped she didn't.

[Isabella Alexandrine]

"You don't have to worry about them," Isabella said, leading her new friend to a seat. "I've already taken care of everything. Consider it compensation for having to endure the undignified manners of presumptuous individuals."

She noticed the young woman's glass and the wine in it. Many would presume she was too young to have so much wine. Others might say it was far too early in the day to partake of such things, which is why Isabella kept to her tea.

Finding herself in an odd position, Isabella had decided to show courtesy to someone before knowing who they were. Perhaps it was the only way to be sure she had someone to speak with for a while, but things were going well enough so far. "My name is Isabella Rachelle Alexandrine, but I hope you won't try to burden yourself with my entire name."

She thought back to her new friend's comment about her father keeping all of her money, even though it's rightfully hers. "I know how it feels to live under the shadow of an oppressive parent," Isabella said. "My Mother constantly pitted my sister and I against each other when I was a child. She insisted she had to test us, so we would become proper ladies when we grew older." A small laugh came from Isabella and she added, "Mother still does things to test me all the time."

Isabella took another sip of her tea. Every move she made, from how she held the cup and the saucer underneath, to the way she kept her body level, suggested years of training in proper etiquette. She had learned so much, her manners had become part of her reflexes and nervous system. Isabella no longer had to think to act properly.

Her eyes swept over her companion and she began to wonder exactly what might motivate this young woman. What might she want or need to keep her going? It was a topic that fascinated Isabella, and she knew it was just another test, like the ones her mother always made her go through, except this one was instituted by Isabella herself. The prize would be gaining a friend, which she thought was well worth the risk.

"If you don't mind, may I ask what your plans were for the rest of the afternoon? I was thinking about looking through a few of the shops and, if you like, you can join me."

[Twylite]

Twylite sat down across from Isabella as she spoke, nodding her head in acknowledgment. She frowned when she asked if Twylite would like to join her for a shopping trip, it was something she wasn't used to, she wasn't particularly found of shopping in general. Setting her glass down on the table she sat up straighter, feeling slightly odd having this strange woman across from her, drinking tea.

"Oh! I'm so sorry. Please excuse my rudeness! My name is Twylite Isabella Phantom. But please I ask you to call me T-Twylite," She sighed knowing she had almost said 'But you can call me Tip' That would not have been good.

She knew that in the past few months that she had been going to the Tychite district the travels had spread word of her and her special talent, and she wasn't sure how well known she was to the public, at least how popular her alias Tip was, and she wasn't going to ruin that now.

Picking up her glass she looked at the contents for a moment before taking a sip, she didn't care how early in the day it was, she wanted wine. Of course if this was really their finest wine, she was better off going to her temporary home and grabbing the first bottle she found.

"Well I'd love to join you. I was going to go to the slums and walk around, you know explore, it's why I'm dressed like this. My father wouldn't very well approve of my actions if he found out, so I figured a disguise was in order," She responded a small smile gracing her lips.

"Of course if we are going shopping I suppose a new dress would be in order wouldn't it? I'll have to buy a new one,"

She sat up straighter and inwardly frowned at herself. She was supposed to stay to her plans. She was going to explore the lower class district, which had rebels in it (of course what place didn't?), and then tomorrow she was planning on going about from the taverns and bars to see what they were like, and then finally begin her work, her healing.

She knew that it was too late to turn back now, it wasn't that she didn't like Isabella, she just wasn't absolutely certain about what she was getting herself into.

Clearing her head of any doubt she figured she'd give Isabella a chance, like she did with everyone. "When would you like to go?"

[Isabella Alexandrine]

"There's no rudeness for you to be excused for," Isabella said. "In fact, if anyone should apologize, it should be me. I've gone on quite a lot without giving you a chance to speak." A smile started to creep into the edges of Isabella's mouth. "Besides, Twylite, it's given me a moment to anticipate hearing such a beautiful name."

Isabella's mother would have been pleased to hear her daughter delivering such an honest compliment to a young woman she'd just met. It had been one of the primary factors for her education, to give Isabella the tools necessary to speak and relate to others, always bearing charisma and grace.

Isabella was enjoying herself, a simple moment, hearing about another person's adventures. Twylite seemed to enjoy her wine greatly, which made Isabella glad. One should take joy in the satisfaction of others.

But the notion of walking through the slums repulsed Isabella. There was no less fitting place for her to be than in the city's most unseemly quarter. There was violence, theft, homelessness, and it was so... unwashed. Isabella couldn't fathom why anyone would allow themselves to get so dirty. Glancing at Twylite, she began to worry. If the slums were unsafe for one of them, why would they be safe for the other?

"I'm so glad you'll be coming with me this afternoon. If you don't mind my saying, you are quite beautiful, the kind of beauty that deserves to have finer clothing." Isabella thought Twylite was lovely, enough to become curious how she looked in a proper dress, one suited to her demeanor and station.

"When would you like to go?" Twylite asked.

"Oh, yes." Isabella looked at her own cup and her companion's glass. "Once we've finished our drinks. We've hardly touched either of them."

She picked up her teacup again, taking a proper sip, even though she would rather finish it all so they could go on. There was no reason why she would want to draw things out, aside from having time to converse with Twylite further.

Once Isabella put her cup down again, she looked across the table and began to wonder more about her new friend. "Twylite? This may seem rather forward of me, but I was wondering more about your goals. You seem so determined and energetic, more than I can say for myself."

Picking up her cup again, Isabella took another sip, giving Twylite a chance to speak. Isabella was unsure what answer she might get, though she hoped it would be something wonderful. She was already taking quite a liking to her new friend.

[Twylite]

Twylite tilted her head and thought for a moment. Her goals? She had never really fully thought about them, at least not seriously enough, granted one of her goals was to find her own husband in her own way in her own time, but that particular goal was the least of her problems.

Sighing she picked up her glass and took a generous amount of the contents into her mouth. She wasn't in a rush and she didn't feel like being completely proper, she just wasn't used to it. "Well my goals are slightly odd and possibly difficult to understand why I would do such things," she began placing the now half emptied glass onto the table.

"My father is a Physician, he helps people, but only the rich like almost all other physicians, since those who are of lower class cannot afford medical attention. I myself have read a large amount of the books in my father's study in secret mind you because my father dislikes the idea of me having a job of any kind. Because of my knowledge of anatomy and medicine I've decided to help those who are less fortunate than others," she stated her hands neatly folded in her lap.

"Then there is also the whole marriage issue. My father is currently looking for a man well off in life, meaning he will be much older than myself, something I am repulsed by. I'm not worried about money, I do not care for my reputation, if I can find a man who enjoys my company and my mind along with whatever else I can give him, that would be splendid! I am one who believes marriage should be for those who are in love with each other, not each others money or social standards,"

She hoped that was sufficient enough for Isabella, she wasn't used to talking so much, or being asked what she wanted to achieve in life. She was a woman, she was to have a proper education, get married to a rich man and have kids. That was her job, a bland boring job that just didn't suit her, she knew that, which was why she was always in the slums looking around and helping people.

She looked at her companion and wondered why the woman was so interested in her life. It wasn't everyday that people were curious about what she wanted, nor would they acknowledge her presence, unless of course her father was attempting to marry her off to someone, in which she always acted with polite disdain. She would respond politely, making sure to insult the man kindly, they never got the hint, her father did though, and she always managed to get a good beating out of it too. Not that it mattered since she would simply heal herself.

"What about you Miss Isabella? What are your goals and your input on marriage?"

[Isabella Alexandrine]

"Love as part of marriage?" Isabella asked. She glanced at her hands, knowing they possessed none of the trappings of an engaged woman's hands, much less a woman who was married. "I didn't think such a thing was actually possible."

She raised a finger, realizing she should clarify herself and answer Twylite's question. "I was always led to believe that marriage was a permanent way to establish ties between two families, especially when there is the need for mutual gain. But really, does any family marry off a daughter for simple reasons? I've never seen evidence of such a thing."

Isabella took a long drink of her tea, much more than the casual sips she normally would have taken. The warmth of the fluid was fading and she did not wish to lose it. "Marriage is just a process for quiet business affairs and we are too often the currency of those transactions."

Another drink eased her nerves. There was a great deal of thought and emotion Isabella could let herself feel being asked what she feels about marriage. Thought and emotion could be detrimental things, should they go out of control, and that was something Isabella would not allow. She wouldn't let it happen unless she was going to get something for her troubles, and, as things stood, she didn't have anything substantial to gain at going off the handle about what she thought.

"I would have to say, my goals probably seem like they're in concert with trying to get married, and perhaps they are." Isabella saw no reason to lie, she actually favored the truth. "I try to find ways to help improve the standing of my family, be it meeting with our friends and associates or studying our holdings. Since my sister has already been married, it's left to me to ensure my family and its legacy continues."

Not a word was mentioned of that legacy. Isabella did not give thought to the treachery she was capable of. She didn't say or think about the fact that she was put into a situation once where she thought she was killing her sister, only to find the silent assault was not fatal. Death was the real stock Isabella had to offer, though she would never say it, nor advertise it. She would hardly let herself think about it.

"Why don't we go on? We can continue our conversation while we look through the shops."

[Twylite]

Twylite nodded and smiled before standing. She understood what Isabella was saying since she was in the same predicament as her companion. She pushed her chair in, out of habit and rocked back and forth on her heels.

"It's true that women of our status are married off to gain wealth for their families. But I've never really been to into that sort of marriage. I believe that love should be what we marry for, not love of money," She commented.

She walked to the door and opened it, oblivious to the stares and looks of disgust she was getting from other customers. She turned her head around and smiled calmly to Isabella.

"Besides the worlds changing, whether we like it or not. My father isn't going to control me like a puppet on strings. I have the unfortunate ability to think for myself. My father-if you'll excuse my slander- can shove it up his arse," she said making sure the whole cafe heard her.

She dropped her tone so that Isabella was the only one to hear. "I'm not a rebel, though it would seem fitting if I was one. With the way I act 'n all. But enough of this. we should shop! the day only has so much light and the more we teeter here the less time we have out there,"

She was carefree, far to carefree and she knew it wasn't because of the wine, she could drink much more ale than that and still be fine. She smiled happily before stepping out the door.

[Isabella Alexandrine]

Isabella gently passed enough money to cover both her and Twylite's refreshments. She left a little extra, but not as much as she would have if the staff had been kinder to her new friend.

As they stepped outside, the light seeped into Isabella's eyes, even though her hat was safely in place. She took up her parasol and unleashed it, better protecting herself from the excessive light.

"I would have to say, I have never really been in love before." Isabella looked at a few of those who watched her and Twylite passing, giving them an expression in turn--a subtle note of disdain for their constant gazing. Some of the onlookers turned their heads, others kept their snobbery intact.

As their conversation continued, Twylite further illustrated her ideals regarding her own personal freedom, especially concerning her father making decisions on her behalf. When Twylite gave a bit of slander to make her point, Isabella put a gloved hand to her mouth, holding back a laugh. "No need to hold back with me," Isabella said. "Especially if you wish to be so... candid." She held back another burst of laughter.

"So, what would you prefer to start with? We could check in on some new clothes, or perhaps discuss some of the more interesting parts of our fine city." Remembering that Twylite mentioned looking for a new dress, Isabella began to size her up in many ways. She felt the young woman might look and feel more at ease in something with a lighter tone, if only to give her a soft glow.

There was the other way as well, the one she would never express without being given reason to. Twylite was pretty and attractive, something that was never lost on Isabella, regardless of who it might apply to. For a moment, she was tempted to toy with the idea of trying to do something other than be a genuine friend to Twylite, but deep down, Isabella knew her own proclivities were better kept quiet until they could be best used.

[Twylite]

Twlite looked down at her attire and frowned. "As much as I hate the clothes that are supposed to be worn by people of our status, I think getting a dress first would be smart. But only the dress. I don't need the parasol to match it, my skin is already 'damaged'," she stated shaking her head.

She looked into one of the stores and stopped as she saw a dress in the window display. It didn't have sleeves-thankfully- and was corseted in the front. It was mostly orange with yellow showing in the front. Scattered about the dress were rubies that made the outfit look like it was on fire.

Twylite was completely engrossed in the dress. She didn't see or hear anything that was going on around her. She may not have been one to enjoy dresses that were completely intact, but this one was the exception. "I want this one~" she said in a sing song voice.

She laughed and looked back at her friend with a smile. "I wont be shredding this one up,"

She didn't wait for a response from Isabella before going into the store. She was greeted with a glare from the seamstress before the woman recognized Twylite. "Ah! It's so good to see you again Miss Twylite. What can I do for you today?"

Twylite smiled at the woman. "The orange dress in the display please," she responded standing next to the mirrors.
"How have things been since I was last here Jazz?"

the woman returned with the dress and held it out for Twylite. "Business has been better since you stopped in an' helped me," Jazz said smiling.

Twylite emerged from the dressing room she had entered while the woman talked. "How does it look?"

She stepped onto the platform in front of the three paned mirror to examine herself.

[Isabella Alexandrine]

While Twylite stepped up to examine herself in the mirror, Isabella glanced over her as well. She looked stunning. No sleeves, but still bearing a corset. Shining in orange and yellow, almost looking like flames. "You look phenomenal in that dress, Twylite," Isabella said. "It's going to be hard for me to find something that can keep up."

Looking through the other dresses on display, Isabella began to wonder what she might need to try out. She was already wearing blue, and had plenty of dark layers. Glancing at Twylite, she was wondering if she should try something similar. Isabella didn't want to forgo sleeves, nor did she wish to surrender any of the accessories that went with most ladies' apparel.

Not orange or yellow. Isabella wanted something more. She wanted red. Something long and soft and open. Then she saw something she felt would work and began looking for other things to go with it. A corset that had as much black as it did red, as much weaving a design as it did simplicity. Looking for a moment, she found a hat, complete with slight decorative roses and a netted veil for her face.

It amused her, the ease at which she could find something that would suit her mood, as well as fall in line with the trends of others. Isabella carefully released herself from her clothes and pulled up her hair so as not to get it caught in any of the new clothing she had picked out. The black edges of the red dress she had picked out made a distinct boundary against the bright color of Isabella's skin. She dressed quickly, taking only ten of fifteen minutes to get through the process.

Once she was done, she stepped out, taking quiet steps to rejoin Twylite and Jazz while they took in all the possibilities Twylite had. Isabella just wanted to see if she could sneak up and join them, and how long it might take them to notice her.

[Twylite]

Twylite clapped her hands together and looked at her friend through the mirror before quickly turning around. She stepped off the stool and motioned for Isabella to step onto it. "You look wonderful Isabella! It's so lovely! You're skin looks so much lighter with it on!"

She let out a laugh as she noticed the jewels in a case by the register. "Ah! Jazz! Could you get the red tear drop necklace aaaaaand the square cut diamond one from the counter?" She inquired her smile still present on her face.

Jazz nodded quickly before rushing to get the two necklaces and bringing them over to Twylite. The teenager picked up the simple ruby tear drop necklace, it was on a gold chain that was soft to the touch. Hastily she put the necklace on before examining the diamond necklace. It was much more intricate than the one she had chosen for herself, the diamonds were perfectly set, the necklace was about an inch wide, the whole thing covered with diamonds, the only part that wasn't diamond was the metal holding the entire thing together.

Though Twylite wasn't into shopping and expensive things, shiny objects seemed to draw her in. She figured that if a man was to present her with a shiny necklace, bracelet, or ring in exchange for her hand she would accept and that appalled her thoroughly. Sighing she began playing with her necklace, examining herself in the smaller mirror on the counter. She wasn't one to wear earrings, and there weren't any matching ones for the jewel of her choice, so she didn't look for another set, this one suited her just fine.

"Isabella. Try this necklace one. I think it may go quiet well with your outfit," she said quietly, motioning to the diamond necklace.

Jazz walked up to the second female and held out her hands.

[Isabella Alexandrine]

At Twylite's reaction, Isabella took her place in front of the mirrors. For a moment, there was less light around the mirror and stool as the ladies switched places.

Jazz quickly brought forward the necklaces Twylite had asked for. Isabella took her time watching the fabric of the dress moving about her, while Twylite tried on one of the necklaces. Isabella was content to wait--when Jazz brought her the second necklace.

Taking it from Jazz, Isabella lifted it from the other woman's hands and let it catch the light. There were several diamonds combined it the design, each blended together to hide what few bits of connecting metal there were.

As the square cut diamond hung from a small bit of metal, light struck the smoothly crafted gem, making it shine brighter as Isabella brought it to rest under her neck. "Thank you," she said to Jazz. "It's exquisite." She lifted the array of diamonds and put it in place at the top of her chest. Once more, she turned to the mirror and looked at herself, taking in the full view of what she had become.

It pleased Isabella and she was confident it would please her mother as well when they discussed things later. Isabella had been sure of herself for some time, but to see herself now, combining the suggestions of others with her own tastes.

"What do you think, ladies?" Isabella asked, turning to show off the dress and the accompanying necklace. "Do you think I might turn a few heads with this outfit?"

Isabella stopped herself when she looked at Twylite. Her eyes lifted when they locked and she quickly inhaled. "I think you will turn a few heads like that, Twylite."