22-08-YC123

Going to the ball was exactly the correct decision.

Such a wonderful night, and I am quite sure everyone present had a delightful time.  The music was absolutely divine.  Firstly an orchestra, followed by Arline performing a very heartfelt and moving piano piece.  I fear she does not give herself the credit she deserves for her talent, but not only that, there was something very personal about the piece.  Quite brave of her to play it at such an event and I must make time to speak to her about it.

Arline was followed by a traditional ensemble, who played some very lively tunes.  I thought the waltz was enjoyable enough, but when the dancing became even more energetic, the night really came alive, and one of the highlights must surely have been the Chapter Master performing a sword dance!  I never would have dreamed of seeing such a sight, but I am very glad I did.

Utari and his dear Lady Lasairiona had some very happy news.  They are engaged! Not a surprise in the slightest, of course, as they have made such a handsome couple for as long as I can remember, but an excellent excuse for added joyfulness.

The Directrix and her husband were there also, as was Gah'Matar, amongst many others.  It is heart-warming to see our allies at these occasions for it speaks of the close bonds of Loyal and Faith we all share.  Ishta even brought Sasha along, and though I did not get to speak with them much, every time I looked over they seemed to be enjoying themselves, especially in the faster paced dances.

I am glad to say I did my own fair share of dancing, and I had the sweetest partner for the evening.  Dear Riccoda overcame his inherent shyness and I am very pleased he did.  He is quite the accomplished dancer and a most attentive gentlemen.  There are many who could learn from his example of how to properly treat a lady.

And now I know he has a hidden side and a far deeper quality.  If the Chapter Master's sword dance was unexpected, how then should I describe Riccoda's main action of the evening?  It quite took my breath away.  We had just sat down to eat and rest ourselves from a dance, when, without a word of warning, he presented to me the most beautiful little polished wooden box.  I thought, for a moment, he was going to propose!  But no, inside was, or rather is, for I have it here in front of me as I write, a small bottle, sealed tight, filled with the clearest, purest water.  It is, he told me, the last of the water from the well his family maintained for centuries - 2700 years old!  I still do not entirely understand why he has given such an important family artefact to me, but I know from what he told me that for him to do so is such a momentous, important act for him.  It came from his heart, and it symbolises so much more than a family legacy.  He spoke, just for a moment, of now being the only heir of his family name, but would say no more.  He also mentioned some very strange, something about how this well, that his family had protected for countless generations, had been destroyed by someone from Nakri!  At least, that is what it sounded like.  He would say nothing further and I do not wish to press him on such a delicate, perhaps painful, subject.  I may tell him of his own volition, in time.  I pray that he does.

So I shall hold this gift close to my heart and keep it safe from all possible danger.  A small kiss seems such a poor return for something of such pricelessness, and so I shall look for something I can give in return, to show dear Riccoda that I recognise the honour he does me.  Perhaps there is an ancient wrong that must be righted.

Or perhaps it is a sign of what the future should bring.