[ladyarcana55]

Kiloni is standing amidst a group of people, the men who are considerably taller than her. The older woman who is anxiously holding her hand is a little taller than Kiloni. Everyone is dressed impeccably in the most fashionable dress attire. Only the older man has a three piece business suit and the other men have shirts and slacks that are obviously well tailored. They could have stepped out of a magazine shoot. The woman is also dressed fashionably in a business suit with a skirt. It is obvious that they are all related, the resemblances can easily be seen. They are all very attractive and it is obvious that her beauty is a family trait.

Kiloni and her family are having no problems balancing the plate, food and drink. It is obvious they have done this many times before. She and her mother avoid the alcohol, although the men do not, and she takes little food. There is an empty pot on their plates which is used to hold their drinks and they hold it far enough away from themselves and each other so that any danger of it spilling on their clothing is nonexistent. Even in these uncomfortable circumstances they all practice proper manners almost as if they have been drilled in such things all their lives. While Kiloni moves along the crowds she always comes back to her family, sometimes alone and sometimes with other people.For the most part, her family allows the various people to come to them, or be brought to them. There is an indulgent look on her father's face as she moves to and from them. She continues to speak to quite a few people and she greets her new teammates.

Kiloni

Hi Karapyetchenko!

Originally Posted by jmurrell

Bear

Kiloni, this is Helena. I know you'll want to introduce her to your brother.

Kiloni (A big smile lights up her face)

Yes! I would love that! They are right over there, c'mon! Are you coming Bear? They would definitely want to meet you!

She excitedly leads them over to her family.

Kiloni

Mummy! Daddy! Guys! This is Helena, she has been gracious enough to allow one of you to escort her to the ball tonight.

Philip (he says as he playfully poses)

Uh-oh! Looks like we are on display!

Donny (laughing good naturedly)

Seriously, you have your choice of a military man, a fire fighter, an athlete and a traveler.

Each of the brother gives her a slight bow as Donny names off her choices. At the last occupation, he bows to her. Then they wait for Helena to decide.

Helena

Oh my! So much to choose from, it's like a smargasboard! Hmm...I think I'll go for...the guy most likely to have the best stories. The fire fighter!

The brothers laugh and pat Philip on the back and shoulders as he pretends to cry tears of joy. Then he approaches Helena.

Philip (offering his arm)

Thank you very much for the honor. If you have some time, perhaps we can get to know each other a little prior to the Ball?

Helena smiles and takes his arm. Together they wander to an area away from the group and they talk privately.

Meanwhile...

Kiloni (with pride)

Oh! Mummy, Daddy, this is Dmitri Feodorovich Karapyetchenko, affectionately known as Bear. Bear, this is Michelle and Marius Queldrone. My parents.

Marius

So...you are one of the people who will be responsible for my daughter's safety. And what are your credentials?

Kiloni

Daddy!

Bear

As members of the same team her safety is a part of my job, yes. Although she is quite capable of taking care of herself. She just doesn't know it yet. My credentials?

Bears draws himself to attention.

Bear

Twelve years as an Imperial Marine, earned the Military Medal. Thirty years on the Blacksburg (Pegasex) Greater Metropolitan Police Force, most recently as Senior Detective and Academy instructor.......I'll keep an eye on her, sir.

Bear bows slightly and turns to Kiloni.

Bear

I have to go Kiloni. Save me a dance at the ball will you?

Kiloni (with a very embarrassed and apologetic look on her face, she mouths to him "I'm so sorry")

Of course I'm looking forward to it! See you tonight, and thanks again.