Chapter 23: Blame It On The Ale

Once the group had eaten, Talon seemed to recover from the black ale. Music was still playing, and couples began to dance.

I watched closely, the moves were familiar and yet strange at the same time. I could feel Talon watching me as I gained the courage to speak.

"I never learned how to dance," I finally said.

He waited. His dark hood framed his pale skin and clear, expressive eyes. Talon turned his attention to the movements of the dancers; no one would be able to tell the horrors he had been through such a short time ago, or in his life for that matter.

"Would you teach me this dance?" I bravely, and eagerly, asked. The hood nodded, and he slowly rose to his feet. Holding out a gloved hand, Talon turned to go. Three silver knights watched with increasing interest.

Talon and I reached the open floor, and he delicately reached for my waist and hands. He took a moment to prepare himself, then gently pulled me into position.