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<blockquote data-quote="Silver Moon" data-source="post: 3355864" data-attributes="member: 8530"><p><strong>Chapter 229, “The Costume Ball” , Saturday, April 1st, 1882, 8:45 PM</strong></p><p></p><p>In a deep and rather obviously faked baritone French ascended voice he exclaims, "Is there a maiden here who needs rescued?" As they continue to dance around Ruby keeps her face towards Red but smiles and says, "Why is there a Knight here to do the rescuing?" The Musketeer bounds across the dance floor, stopping before Ruby. Beneath the elaborate feathered hat he is wearing what appears to be a blonde wig of the same color as the obviously fake beard and mustache that he is wearing. She sees a sparkle in his brown eyes beneath the mask.</p><p></p><p>Continuing the really bad French accent he continues, "Ah, has D'Artanian found his damsel in distress? Behold, could this be one of the owners of yonder drinking establishment attired as a creature of myth? Tis most appropriate then that another owner of said location be the one to carry out said rescue." He takes her by the hand and spins her out upon the dance floor.</p><p></p><p>Ruby laughs and lets herself be swung around and pulled to the Musketeer as they dance. With a smile she bites her lip, “Ah, this damsel is very much in distress for she has lost her lover in the crowd and her lips long for a kiss. Do you believe you are the one to rescue me then, brave warrior?” As she speaks she stares into his sparkling brown eyes.</p><p></p><p>In the same awful French accent he replies, "Ah yes, one such as you should not remain without a proper kiss. But unless I am mistaken your heart belongs to another. Would he not become jealous if he should see you kissing a mysterious stranger?" "Yes, you are right, my heart does belong to another and he alone has the key to my heart. I suppose I should depart then and continue my desperate search for him as I do so long for that kiss..." Ruby purses her lips slightly then takes a step back from the Musketeer. She turns her back on him but doesn't walk away.</p><p></p><p>Continuing an accent which would cause any Frenchman hearing it to shoot him on sight, the Musketeer states, "Well then fair maiden, we would not wish to enflame your lover. Perhaps you could describe for me his planned attire for this evening and I can assist you in locating him." She replies, "Well, I'm not sure what he was planning on wearing. He was supposed to surprise me. But I would welcome your assistance because there are many gentlemen here who would take advantage of a young lady such as myself."</p><p></p><p>She turns back to face him. "He's extremely handsome and dashing... and about your height actually. He's very smart and friendly and witty and he makes my heart pound in my chest just being near him. Seen anyone like that?" The musketeer replies, "I have heard many a damsel describe myself as such, but alas, I suspect that I am not he. Fear not good lady, I am certain that you will receive that kiss before the sun rises. I wish you the luck of Hermes in finding the one who you seek." With that he takes her hand and softly kisses it.</p><p></p><p>She speaks up quickly, "Oh, but would you leave me here alone with those that would take advantage? Perhaps I should not leave it up to Hermes to help me." The musketeer replies, "Ah, but one can always have faith in the god of Luck. He has always done well for me." He then turns his head and looks at a pair of young ladies of about twenty who are standing near and looking at a food table set out by Don and Nellie Hudson's Bakery. "Ah, there are some damsels that look as though they need me to rescue them from one temptation and entice them with another." "Well I should not keep you from your duty then." She smiles, "Thank you for the lovely dance." She gives him a low curtsey.</p><p></p><p>She glances around the crowd, looking to see if Red is still around and double checking that Colin Hunter isn't still stalking her. Ruby sees that Red is over at a table set up by the Silver Dollar Saloon and purchasing a beverage from there. The musketeer wanders off from Ruby and heads directly towards the bakery table where he flirts with both to the young women, kisses each of their hands, and then brings one of them out onto the dance floor with him.</p><p></p><p>Ruby notices that a halfling couple both attired in Roman togas are dancing out in the center of the dance floor, obviously Chumbley and the woman from the Emporium. Also on the dance floor are a couple in Victorian attire who from the heights, weights and postures she concludes are Stanley and Helen Barker. She then sees Judge Lacey attired as a Roman Centurion dancing with Laurie Gilson, who is attired as Martha Washington.</p><p></p><p>She smiles at the turnout for the ball and all the various costumes that people are wearing. She keeps Red in sight, hoping that really is him. She smiles and nods her head at the people who recognize her. She feels a little more lighthearted then before but she can't seem to get Mr. Turner out of her mind and she continues to watch over her shoulder to make sure he isn't there. She searches around the crowd, still looking for Jake, trying not to get nervous that something has happened to him. She purchases a beverage for herself and continues to look.</p><p></p><p>The dance floor was already crowded by the time Katherine and Conrad stepped on it. Kate tried not to notice the many sets of male eyes that seemed to settle on her for just a moment, perhaps shocked to see the modest Mrs. Kale in such a gown, or maybe just noticing the way her legs peeked through slit in the front of the dress where the sides met. "Will you dance with me?" Conrad asked with an extravagant bow. A genuine laugh came from her throat. "That's why we came, isn't it?"</p><p></p><p>‘Louise‘ has decided that since she's out and about anyway she might as well attend the ball. She heads for the mask sales and picks out a simple black face mask, after all she's already in a fully hidden her true identity. She stands near the edge of the stage listening to the music that is playing and wishes that she didn't have two left feet and no sense of rhythm as she watches the dancers whirl by.</p><p></p><p>Mitchell Berg locates Chester in the crowd. He quietly tells him, "Chet, you're going to have to be in charge for a while, I'm off to Tombstone. We looked through Mr. Clemen's luggage, and it is Mr. Clemen's luggage. The real Mark Twain had stepped off the train in Tombstone earlier today but it was the imposter who left that town. Kris Wagner is leading us his fastest stagecoach along with Chuck Nevers and Newton Gilly to get there and attempt to find him. Burton Lumley, Hamilton Fisk and the priest who is the Arch-Bishop's aide are already on the stagecoach waiting for me. Good luck here and make sure that word doesn't get around that the Marshall is gone."</p><p></p><p>For the ball, Chester has changed into a pirate costume, complete with eye-patch. Instead of the stage sword, and wooden pistol, Chester carries his cavalry saber and his Remington is tucked into his belt. While he is looking for Clarisse, Berg finds him. "Sure thing, boss. Did you tell Helen and Eduardo? That's not good news. May Hermes speed your trip. I hope you find him safe and sound."</p><p></p><p>He replies, "I have told Eduardo but not Helen. As for Mr. Clemens, that is the main reason why I wanted Fisk along. You and I both know that he has possible links to the Cowboy Gang. During the ride to Tombstone I will speak at length about how this kidnapping of a national celebrity will down the wrath of both the Arizona Rangers and the United States Army on Ringo and his Gang. I suspect that Fisk will realize that is true and do what he can in Tombstone to facilitate Mr. Twain's safe return."</p><p></p><p>Chester replies, "Good plan. I'll keep an eye out, in case Ringo has doubled back. When I see Helen, I'll let her know, unless you don't want me to." Berg replies, "Tell her everything, including the details of Ringo's earlier deception. Also, don't hesitate to get the soldiers in town involved if you need to. The safety of the town is more important than any jurisdictional issues." Chester says, "OK. I've met a few of the soldiers before, so finding them won't be a problem. I'll keep the place in one piece, Mitch. You better get going."</p><p></p><p>Ruby's attire quickly becomes less provocative as the women from the Palace arrive as a group, most of them attired in less. Two are attired is togas that are so tight as to make it obvious that no undergarments are being worn; two are dressed as Arabian harem girls; another is dressed as the Medusa, her body wrapped in semi-translucent green cloth with just enough layers to keep from being arrested; another is attired as Aphrodite herself, with strategically arranged pieces of cloth affixed to her body with some form of adhesive. All are wearing silver sequined masks to hide their identity, although Jane Boag's short height gives away her identity. She is dressed the most conservative of her colleagues, in a sleeveless white dress with a necklace, bracelets and belt that appear to be made of silver-plated rope.</p><p></p><p>The man dressed as the British Lord continues through the crowd in an aristocratic manner, walking a long oval around the platform, preferring to stay within a few feet of the edge. Though not threatening in an overt way, people move slightly to let him pass unobstructed. One woman comments quietly to her man, "Look at his hair." His lordship stops walking briefly but does not turn back to the woman. She laughs a little high pitch nervous laugh before she says, "I'm suddenly thirsty, lets get a drink." She moves away quickly and the masked lord resumes his stately walk. Ruby nods slightly as Jane walks by her but doesn't call her by name.</p><p></p><p>A group of a dozen miners arrive together all dressed as pirates. They immediately go to a beer tent set up by Drover's and all order a tankard. The Musketeer concludes his dance with the young lady. When it concludes he returns to Ruby and says, "Is the damsel still in search of her beau or has she located her young man?" She laughs, "Has your lady friend rebuffed you already?"</p><p></p><p>"No, I haven't found him yet," she gives him a small smile. "But is he here somewhere. My costume must be too good and he can't find me." The Musketeer says once again in English accented by mangled French, "Well then perhaps we should share in our misery. I too am without female companionship on this fine evening. While I am certain that there are dozens of young ladies present who would gleefully wish for my company my heart belongs to just one at the moment, who is not among us. Would you care to dance fine lady, as we both wallow in our misfortune?"</p><p></p><p>"That sounds like as good a plan as any. Why should we both be alone on this fine evening under the stars longing for those we love?" Ruby takes his hand and waits for the Musketeer to lead her back on the dance floor. The two dance around arm-in-arm. The Musketeer is an excellent dancer. He says, "This band is exquisite, not what one would normally expect in the Palace of Versailles, but truly fitting for this occasion. I fear, however, that this will be our final dance as the band will soon be concluding. I believe that you are scheduled to perform during the next hour with Madge Duprey. I truly hope that you will be doing music from my native France." Ruby can barely contain her laughter as this fake Frenchman even mispronounces the word 'France'.</p><p></p><p>She says, "Well, Sir, I do know some songs from your native land and as you can guess by her name my partner on stage also does. But I feel I am at the disadvantage, sir, as you seem to know all about me yet I don't even know your name. Would you be so kind to share it?" Ruby waits expectantly for an answer. He states, "I believe I told it to you earlier. I am D'Artanian, protector of the Queen. And since your own beloved has apparently chosen to abandon you to my company then for this evening I will serve as your knight good lady."</p><p></p><p>Ruby smiles, "I much appreciate it kind sir." She again curtseys to him before standing and kissing him on the lips. "Thank you for watching after me," she says, looking him in the eyes. He is a bit startled by the kiss on the lips. He replies in Job Kane's normal speaking voice "Ruby...let's not get carried away. What would Jake say?"</p><p></p><p>Ruby giggles, "He would say that's a nice thank you for keeping an eye on me!" She stops, "Oh but you had me fooled, I thought you really were D'Artanian. Your own lady couldn't attend?" Job replies "No, I couldn't convince Bernice to leave Wilcox." Ruby again thanks him for the dance and bids him farewell before she bounces off.</p><p></p><p>A masked woman attired in a very fancy Victorian-era gown, with high-necked lace collar and hoop skirt approaches Chester. In Clarisse Townsend's voice he is asked "Would the young man care to dance?" Chester gives a sweeping bow with his hat. "I would be honored, madam. Aren't you worried people would talk about being seen with such a scurvy knave?" She says, "I think it's rather exciting. Do you have a woman in every port?" He replies, "Not at all. I just have you. Let's dance. It's a fine moonlit night for a party."</p><p></p><p>The man portraying Odysseus in alternating dances with each of the women from the Palace attired as harem girls. Across the room, a plump woman in a gown barely fit for a formal ball approaches his Lordship and stands in his path. He stops. She says, "I know you, I really do, You are...." "I hardly think so." Says a voice tersely with a distinct British accent. He alters his path slightly and walks past the woman without another word.</p><p></p><p>Ruby hurries over to the Gay Lady, where Madge is waiting for her in her costume. "Ruby! You are late!" "I know, I know," Ruby says, tearing her costume off, "I was detained by a handsome young man. Since when do we choose a schedule over a handsome young man?" She smiles, slipping into the new costume that was made for them by Madge's girls. "Well, how do I look?"</p><p></p><p>"You look gorgeous, like you always do," Madge answers. Ruby and Madge make their way over to the Ball and get up on stage to much applause. They sing their set, their voices perfectly harmonized and they find they need no spells for a captive audience. Some people even come off the dance floor to watch.</p><p></p><p>From the stage Ruby lets her eyes wander the crowd as she sings, looking for Jake. She knew he must not want to be seen with her and that people who knew them would think Job was Jake. Part of a plan she thinks, but what if... She sees all her friends from up there, Kate with Conrad, Nanuet with Minerva and Chester with Clarisse. She also kept her eyes open for Mr. Gonzales as he mentioned he wanted a dance, and she would feel better knowing he was there. She also looks for Colin.</p><p></p><p>Conrad and Kate have a wonderful time dancing, first to the music of the El Parador Band with an elated Estaban Fuente as the lead musician and with both Pedro and Sonoma Figures singing and also playing various instruments. The second hour features the music of Ruby and Madge who do an excellent job as a duet. Kate notices part way through their performance that she is drawn to their words and music with a feeling not unlike that which they had experienced in the New Orleans nightclub.</p><p></p><p>By 10:00 PM Conrad's previously disappointed mood has vanished and he is actually happier than Kate has ever seen him. They finally decide to stop for a break. She notes that he has only been drinking water and fruit juice this evening and nothing alcoholic. "You seem to be feeling better," Kate smiled at him. "What's changed your mood?"</p><p>"You did." He says, "This day has been emotional turmoil for me, a mix of happiness, sadness, elation and fear. But an hour ago I came to a realization. Right now, right here, we are together. There are no villains, moralistic busybodies, interfering priests, financial woes or work commitments standing over our heads. We have been alone together on this dance floor, despite there being a higher concentration of people in this immediate area than there has ever been before.</p><p></p><p>You may not yet be ready for a formal commitment, and as I said before, I will not press you. But tonight you agreed to come here as my date, and a wonderful date you have been. If our relationship were to cease after tonight I will still have this time together to cherish as my most precious memory." "I wouldn't want that. For our relationship to end tonight." Kate blushed, unsure where to look.</p><p></p><p>"I had a similar realization. There is only today. I suppose for most people there is tomorrow and yesterday, but one is gone, and the other may never be. A very wise person today told me to stop pretending, but what she really meant was I should stop lying to myself. You... I've been trying to deny the feelings I have. Out of guilt, and loyalty, and this sense of it being wrong to care for someone so soon. You're right, I'm not ready for it, but that doesn't mean it isn't here. I hope we'll make more memories, that these won't be the last." Conrad pulls Kate close and leans his head forward. His lips touch hers in just the slightest brush of a kiss.</p><p></p><p>A shiver ran through her and she slipped her arms around his waist. She didn't try to move any closer, letting his lips float like feathers across hers and shutting her eyes. She lowered her head a moment later and tucked it against his shoulder. Although Clarisse and Stanley finish their song while Conrad and Kate remain in their embrace, her head upon his shoulder. He finally withdraws his right arm, reaching up and lightly stroking her hair. "Trust in yourself Kate. You are the strongest person that I have ever known. Listen to what your own heart tells you. But do not make any long-term decisions tonight. This day has been emotional turmoil for you as well. Tomorrow will come soon enough, let us just enjoy the moment."</p><p></p><p>She replies, "It has been. I just wanted to spend today working with the children, getting to know them, maybe shop some, come here and dance," she smiled. "I don't feel strong, I feel like a child. But for tonight I feel like myself again, like the Katherine who lived in Boston and knew what her place in the world was." The next song begins. Perhaps the entertainers had noticed the couple still on the floor in the romantic embrace, perhaps they had not, but the next song chosen is a romantic love song meant to be danced slower to.</p><p></p><p>Ruby had no luck finding Jake from the stage but she also didn't see Colin or any recognizable Cowboys. After the set she and Madge go back to the Gay Lady and Madge talks excitedly about their performance. "Yes, " Ruby agrees as she dresses in her costume again, "It was wonderful and we should do it again soon." She is somewhat distracted but has a smile on just the same.</p><p></p><p>They both change into costumes, Madge changing into a rather daring outfit made of black leather whose corset pushes up her chest to show ample cleavage, with fishnet stockings and gloves. She says, "It wouldn't have been appropriate to wear this earlier with the youngsters around." Ruby does note that the outfit makes Madge look far younger than her age of somewhere in her early thirties. Ruby dons her costume and returns to the main dance floor.</p><p></p><p>Clarisse Townsend and Stanley Barker have both changed out of their costumes and into formal wear, Stanley wearing a neatly pressed black suit with starched white shirt and black bow tie. Clarisse is in a long-sleeved emerald green gown with black high heels.</p><p></p><p>While Clarisse changes for her performance Stanley, Chester finds Helen near the stage. "Fine night for a festival, Helen. Mitch had to leave for Tombstone. Turns out that wasn't Mark Twain on stage earlier. It was most likely Johnny Ringo in disguise. Twain arrived at Tombstone OK, but didn't make the trip here. So Mitch is taking a stagecoach there." Helen says, "That was some disguise. I had no idea and I don't think too many others did either. Where's Ringo now?"</p><p></p><p>"He got away. Mitch and Jake went to his room and he wasn't there. Drover's Livery was missing several horses and tack, so we guess him and some cowboys rode out of town. By the way, I'm sorry that you didn't win the shooting match. If it makes you feel any better, I've heard Corporal Briggs is supposed to be a deadeye." "Thank you Chet. At least I gave him a run for the money, but I could have done better."</p><p></p><p>Ruby purchases a couple of drinks, downing the first one quickly. She dances with a few men before heading back for another beverage. As she stands on the side of the dance floor she watches her friends actually enjoying themselves dancing around in the masquerade.</p><p></p><p>The masked man attired as a British Lord approaches Ruby. In a formal British accent he says to her, "A true blooded Lord may decide to bed a local wench if she satisfies his fancy in some way and he has the whim. Hmmm, quite an exotic and tantalizing outfit in which you strut about. I would wager you are a wild thing, wilder than even your costume would let on." Then in a commanding tone, "Dance with me." He seems accustomed to not being denied.</p><p></p><p>Ruby raises an eyebrow but keeps her gaze on the dance floor. "Sir, calling a girl a wench before asking her to dance isn't exactly the way to get her to agree." Then she smiles mischievously, "And I'd imagine that you can't even imagine how wild I really am."</p><p></p><p>"It would be quite naive and imprudent to underestimate anything about me." He steps close to her and raises his hands expectantly to touch hers. Then in a faint whisper of voice that Ruby has heard many times and knows so very well he says, "And yet the knight thanks his lucky stars every day that he has won the princess's heart." <a href="http://users.adelphia.net/~clangtry/pics/JakesCostume01.jpg" target="_blank">http://users.adelphia.net/~clangtry/pics/JakesCostume01.jpg</a></p><p></p><p>Ruby grasps his hands tightly in hers and breathes a sigh of relief. "I thought something might have..." she stops in midthought. She steps back and looks him up and down. "You bastard..." she says with a smile, shaking her head. "Ask me to dance again." He repeats in the same English upper crust voice and same commanding tone, "Dance with me." He then lowers his voice to Jake's natural speaking voice and adds, "...and I will be yours."</p><p></p><p>"As you wish, my lord." Ruby curtseys low before him and stays low for just a moment too long. Then she rises and raises her hand in the proper fashion, waiting for Jake to lead her to the dance floor. Jake takes her firmly by the hand and pulls her to him on the dance floor. They begin their dance, Jake leading them easily around the other less agile and practiced dancers. Ruby fears melt away in her lovers arms and she mentions nothing of her earlier run in with Colin, forgotten in the moment. Jake keeps his English Lord act up and Ruby goes along with it... mostly.</p><p></p><p>Dozens of other couples take to the dance floor. Off to the side of the dance floor, unseen or ignored by most, Jane Boag begins a long, silent prayer to her deity. A feeling of love and romance begins to fill the air, tweaking the emotions of those in the immediate vicinity of the dance floor.</p><p></p><p>The slow song begins and Jake pulls Ruby even closer. "I thought you wanted to keep your identity a secret," Ruby whispers in Jake's ear. He replies, "I do, but how can I resist keeping you next to me?" Ruby smiles, "I've been waiting all night to get a kiss from you." "My lady, how can I make you wait any longer then?" Jake puts his hands on Ruby's face and kisses her and she returns the favor. "Finally my knight has shown up, I was afraid you were abandoning me." "Never!" Jake seals his words with another kiss.</p><p></p><p>They continue their slow dance as if no one else was with them on the dance floor. Ruby nuzzles Jake neck and he holds her tightly. When Ruby finally looks up she notices Jane on the side of the dance floor. She is surprised to see her there and tries to catch her gaze when the petite woman looks up. She whispers to Jake, "It's almost time for me to help with the ceremony baby."</p><p></p><p>Kate lifted up her head and looked around. "What was that you said about being all alone in the crowd? I think I forgot everyone else for a moment." She thought about pulling her arms back so they could dance properly, but left them where they were, enjoying the comfort of being close to someone again.</p><p></p><p>The next twenty minutes of music are all songs of romantic interludes and the general atmosphere changes from one of tension to one of soft relaxation. Deputies Barker and Martin both wander up onto the stage together and stand near their respective love interests as the musicians change to a love ballad duet. Clarisse sings the woman's part in her sweet soprano voice while glancing affectionately at Chester while Stanley sings the man's part in his rich tenor voice while looking lovingly at his wife Helen.</p><p></p><p>As the song is winding down Ruby notices that Arch-Bishop Dimitrios Tsaldaris is now walking around the general vicinity, just smiling and watching what is going on. It appears that he has not seen Jane Boag as of yet, who appears to still be in prayer. Stanley and Clarisse’s hour of music is rapidly coming to a close and they announce that the next song will be their last.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Silver Moon, post: 3355864, member: 8530"] [B]Chapter 229, “The Costume Ball” , Saturday, April 1st, 1882, 8:45 PM[/B] In a deep and rather obviously faked baritone French ascended voice he exclaims, "Is there a maiden here who needs rescued?" As they continue to dance around Ruby keeps her face towards Red but smiles and says, "Why is there a Knight here to do the rescuing?" The Musketeer bounds across the dance floor, stopping before Ruby. Beneath the elaborate feathered hat he is wearing what appears to be a blonde wig of the same color as the obviously fake beard and mustache that he is wearing. She sees a sparkle in his brown eyes beneath the mask. Continuing the really bad French accent he continues, "Ah, has D'Artanian found his damsel in distress? Behold, could this be one of the owners of yonder drinking establishment attired as a creature of myth? Tis most appropriate then that another owner of said location be the one to carry out said rescue." He takes her by the hand and spins her out upon the dance floor. Ruby laughs and lets herself be swung around and pulled to the Musketeer as they dance. With a smile she bites her lip, “Ah, this damsel is very much in distress for she has lost her lover in the crowd and her lips long for a kiss. Do you believe you are the one to rescue me then, brave warrior?” As she speaks she stares into his sparkling brown eyes. In the same awful French accent he replies, "Ah yes, one such as you should not remain without a proper kiss. But unless I am mistaken your heart belongs to another. Would he not become jealous if he should see you kissing a mysterious stranger?" "Yes, you are right, my heart does belong to another and he alone has the key to my heart. I suppose I should depart then and continue my desperate search for him as I do so long for that kiss..." Ruby purses her lips slightly then takes a step back from the Musketeer. She turns her back on him but doesn't walk away. Continuing an accent which would cause any Frenchman hearing it to shoot him on sight, the Musketeer states, "Well then fair maiden, we would not wish to enflame your lover. Perhaps you could describe for me his planned attire for this evening and I can assist you in locating him." She replies, "Well, I'm not sure what he was planning on wearing. He was supposed to surprise me. But I would welcome your assistance because there are many gentlemen here who would take advantage of a young lady such as myself." She turns back to face him. "He's extremely handsome and dashing... and about your height actually. He's very smart and friendly and witty and he makes my heart pound in my chest just being near him. Seen anyone like that?" The musketeer replies, "I have heard many a damsel describe myself as such, but alas, I suspect that I am not he. Fear not good lady, I am certain that you will receive that kiss before the sun rises. I wish you the luck of Hermes in finding the one who you seek." With that he takes her hand and softly kisses it. She speaks up quickly, "Oh, but would you leave me here alone with those that would take advantage? Perhaps I should not leave it up to Hermes to help me." The musketeer replies, "Ah, but one can always have faith in the god of Luck. He has always done well for me." He then turns his head and looks at a pair of young ladies of about twenty who are standing near and looking at a food table set out by Don and Nellie Hudson's Bakery. "Ah, there are some damsels that look as though they need me to rescue them from one temptation and entice them with another." "Well I should not keep you from your duty then." She smiles, "Thank you for the lovely dance." She gives him a low curtsey. She glances around the crowd, looking to see if Red is still around and double checking that Colin Hunter isn't still stalking her. Ruby sees that Red is over at a table set up by the Silver Dollar Saloon and purchasing a beverage from there. The musketeer wanders off from Ruby and heads directly towards the bakery table where he flirts with both to the young women, kisses each of their hands, and then brings one of them out onto the dance floor with him. Ruby notices that a halfling couple both attired in Roman togas are dancing out in the center of the dance floor, obviously Chumbley and the woman from the Emporium. Also on the dance floor are a couple in Victorian attire who from the heights, weights and postures she concludes are Stanley and Helen Barker. She then sees Judge Lacey attired as a Roman Centurion dancing with Laurie Gilson, who is attired as Martha Washington. She smiles at the turnout for the ball and all the various costumes that people are wearing. She keeps Red in sight, hoping that really is him. She smiles and nods her head at the people who recognize her. She feels a little more lighthearted then before but she can't seem to get Mr. Turner out of her mind and she continues to watch over her shoulder to make sure he isn't there. She searches around the crowd, still looking for Jake, trying not to get nervous that something has happened to him. She purchases a beverage for herself and continues to look. The dance floor was already crowded by the time Katherine and Conrad stepped on it. Kate tried not to notice the many sets of male eyes that seemed to settle on her for just a moment, perhaps shocked to see the modest Mrs. Kale in such a gown, or maybe just noticing the way her legs peeked through slit in the front of the dress where the sides met. "Will you dance with me?" Conrad asked with an extravagant bow. A genuine laugh came from her throat. "That's why we came, isn't it?" ‘Louise‘ has decided that since she's out and about anyway she might as well attend the ball. She heads for the mask sales and picks out a simple black face mask, after all she's already in a fully hidden her true identity. She stands near the edge of the stage listening to the music that is playing and wishes that she didn't have two left feet and no sense of rhythm as she watches the dancers whirl by. Mitchell Berg locates Chester in the crowd. He quietly tells him, "Chet, you're going to have to be in charge for a while, I'm off to Tombstone. We looked through Mr. Clemen's luggage, and it is Mr. Clemen's luggage. The real Mark Twain had stepped off the train in Tombstone earlier today but it was the imposter who left that town. Kris Wagner is leading us his fastest stagecoach along with Chuck Nevers and Newton Gilly to get there and attempt to find him. Burton Lumley, Hamilton Fisk and the priest who is the Arch-Bishop's aide are already on the stagecoach waiting for me. Good luck here and make sure that word doesn't get around that the Marshall is gone." For the ball, Chester has changed into a pirate costume, complete with eye-patch. Instead of the stage sword, and wooden pistol, Chester carries his cavalry saber and his Remington is tucked into his belt. While he is looking for Clarisse, Berg finds him. "Sure thing, boss. Did you tell Helen and Eduardo? That's not good news. May Hermes speed your trip. I hope you find him safe and sound." He replies, "I have told Eduardo but not Helen. As for Mr. Clemens, that is the main reason why I wanted Fisk along. You and I both know that he has possible links to the Cowboy Gang. During the ride to Tombstone I will speak at length about how this kidnapping of a national celebrity will down the wrath of both the Arizona Rangers and the United States Army on Ringo and his Gang. I suspect that Fisk will realize that is true and do what he can in Tombstone to facilitate Mr. Twain's safe return." Chester replies, "Good plan. I'll keep an eye out, in case Ringo has doubled back. When I see Helen, I'll let her know, unless you don't want me to." Berg replies, "Tell her everything, including the details of Ringo's earlier deception. Also, don't hesitate to get the soldiers in town involved if you need to. The safety of the town is more important than any jurisdictional issues." Chester says, "OK. I've met a few of the soldiers before, so finding them won't be a problem. I'll keep the place in one piece, Mitch. You better get going." Ruby's attire quickly becomes less provocative as the women from the Palace arrive as a group, most of them attired in less. Two are attired is togas that are so tight as to make it obvious that no undergarments are being worn; two are dressed as Arabian harem girls; another is dressed as the Medusa, her body wrapped in semi-translucent green cloth with just enough layers to keep from being arrested; another is attired as Aphrodite herself, with strategically arranged pieces of cloth affixed to her body with some form of adhesive. All are wearing silver sequined masks to hide their identity, although Jane Boag's short height gives away her identity. She is dressed the most conservative of her colleagues, in a sleeveless white dress with a necklace, bracelets and belt that appear to be made of silver-plated rope. The man dressed as the British Lord continues through the crowd in an aristocratic manner, walking a long oval around the platform, preferring to stay within a few feet of the edge. Though not threatening in an overt way, people move slightly to let him pass unobstructed. One woman comments quietly to her man, "Look at his hair." His lordship stops walking briefly but does not turn back to the woman. She laughs a little high pitch nervous laugh before she says, "I'm suddenly thirsty, lets get a drink." She moves away quickly and the masked lord resumes his stately walk. Ruby nods slightly as Jane walks by her but doesn't call her by name. A group of a dozen miners arrive together all dressed as pirates. They immediately go to a beer tent set up by Drover's and all order a tankard. The Musketeer concludes his dance with the young lady. When it concludes he returns to Ruby and says, "Is the damsel still in search of her beau or has she located her young man?" She laughs, "Has your lady friend rebuffed you already?" "No, I haven't found him yet," she gives him a small smile. "But is he here somewhere. My costume must be too good and he can't find me." The Musketeer says once again in English accented by mangled French, "Well then perhaps we should share in our misery. I too am without female companionship on this fine evening. While I am certain that there are dozens of young ladies present who would gleefully wish for my company my heart belongs to just one at the moment, who is not among us. Would you care to dance fine lady, as we both wallow in our misfortune?" "That sounds like as good a plan as any. Why should we both be alone on this fine evening under the stars longing for those we love?" Ruby takes his hand and waits for the Musketeer to lead her back on the dance floor. The two dance around arm-in-arm. The Musketeer is an excellent dancer. He says, "This band is exquisite, not what one would normally expect in the Palace of Versailles, but truly fitting for this occasion. I fear, however, that this will be our final dance as the band will soon be concluding. I believe that you are scheduled to perform during the next hour with Madge Duprey. I truly hope that you will be doing music from my native France." Ruby can barely contain her laughter as this fake Frenchman even mispronounces the word 'France'. She says, "Well, Sir, I do know some songs from your native land and as you can guess by her name my partner on stage also does. But I feel I am at the disadvantage, sir, as you seem to know all about me yet I don't even know your name. Would you be so kind to share it?" Ruby waits expectantly for an answer. He states, "I believe I told it to you earlier. I am D'Artanian, protector of the Queen. And since your own beloved has apparently chosen to abandon you to my company then for this evening I will serve as your knight good lady." Ruby smiles, "I much appreciate it kind sir." She again curtseys to him before standing and kissing him on the lips. "Thank you for watching after me," she says, looking him in the eyes. He is a bit startled by the kiss on the lips. He replies in Job Kane's normal speaking voice "Ruby...let's not get carried away. What would Jake say?" Ruby giggles, "He would say that's a nice thank you for keeping an eye on me!" She stops, "Oh but you had me fooled, I thought you really were D'Artanian. Your own lady couldn't attend?" Job replies "No, I couldn't convince Bernice to leave Wilcox." Ruby again thanks him for the dance and bids him farewell before she bounces off. A masked woman attired in a very fancy Victorian-era gown, with high-necked lace collar and hoop skirt approaches Chester. In Clarisse Townsend's voice he is asked "Would the young man care to dance?" Chester gives a sweeping bow with his hat. "I would be honored, madam. Aren't you worried people would talk about being seen with such a scurvy knave?" She says, "I think it's rather exciting. Do you have a woman in every port?" He replies, "Not at all. I just have you. Let's dance. It's a fine moonlit night for a party." The man portraying Odysseus in alternating dances with each of the women from the Palace attired as harem girls. Across the room, a plump woman in a gown barely fit for a formal ball approaches his Lordship and stands in his path. He stops. She says, "I know you, I really do, You are...." "I hardly think so." Says a voice tersely with a distinct British accent. He alters his path slightly and walks past the woman without another word. Ruby hurries over to the Gay Lady, where Madge is waiting for her in her costume. "Ruby! You are late!" "I know, I know," Ruby says, tearing her costume off, "I was detained by a handsome young man. Since when do we choose a schedule over a handsome young man?" She smiles, slipping into the new costume that was made for them by Madge's girls. "Well, how do I look?" "You look gorgeous, like you always do," Madge answers. Ruby and Madge make their way over to the Ball and get up on stage to much applause. They sing their set, their voices perfectly harmonized and they find they need no spells for a captive audience. Some people even come off the dance floor to watch. From the stage Ruby lets her eyes wander the crowd as she sings, looking for Jake. She knew he must not want to be seen with her and that people who knew them would think Job was Jake. Part of a plan she thinks, but what if... She sees all her friends from up there, Kate with Conrad, Nanuet with Minerva and Chester with Clarisse. She also kept her eyes open for Mr. Gonzales as he mentioned he wanted a dance, and she would feel better knowing he was there. She also looks for Colin. Conrad and Kate have a wonderful time dancing, first to the music of the El Parador Band with an elated Estaban Fuente as the lead musician and with both Pedro and Sonoma Figures singing and also playing various instruments. The second hour features the music of Ruby and Madge who do an excellent job as a duet. Kate notices part way through their performance that she is drawn to their words and music with a feeling not unlike that which they had experienced in the New Orleans nightclub. By 10:00 PM Conrad's previously disappointed mood has vanished and he is actually happier than Kate has ever seen him. They finally decide to stop for a break. She notes that he has only been drinking water and fruit juice this evening and nothing alcoholic. "You seem to be feeling better," Kate smiled at him. "What's changed your mood?" "You did." He says, "This day has been emotional turmoil for me, a mix of happiness, sadness, elation and fear. But an hour ago I came to a realization. Right now, right here, we are together. There are no villains, moralistic busybodies, interfering priests, financial woes or work commitments standing over our heads. We have been alone together on this dance floor, despite there being a higher concentration of people in this immediate area than there has ever been before. You may not yet be ready for a formal commitment, and as I said before, I will not press you. But tonight you agreed to come here as my date, and a wonderful date you have been. If our relationship were to cease after tonight I will still have this time together to cherish as my most precious memory." "I wouldn't want that. For our relationship to end tonight." Kate blushed, unsure where to look. "I had a similar realization. There is only today. I suppose for most people there is tomorrow and yesterday, but one is gone, and the other may never be. A very wise person today told me to stop pretending, but what she really meant was I should stop lying to myself. You... I've been trying to deny the feelings I have. Out of guilt, and loyalty, and this sense of it being wrong to care for someone so soon. You're right, I'm not ready for it, but that doesn't mean it isn't here. I hope we'll make more memories, that these won't be the last." Conrad pulls Kate close and leans his head forward. His lips touch hers in just the slightest brush of a kiss. A shiver ran through her and she slipped her arms around his waist. She didn't try to move any closer, letting his lips float like feathers across hers and shutting her eyes. She lowered her head a moment later and tucked it against his shoulder. Although Clarisse and Stanley finish their song while Conrad and Kate remain in their embrace, her head upon his shoulder. He finally withdraws his right arm, reaching up and lightly stroking her hair. "Trust in yourself Kate. You are the strongest person that I have ever known. Listen to what your own heart tells you. But do not make any long-term decisions tonight. This day has been emotional turmoil for you as well. Tomorrow will come soon enough, let us just enjoy the moment." She replies, "It has been. I just wanted to spend today working with the children, getting to know them, maybe shop some, come here and dance," she smiled. "I don't feel strong, I feel like a child. But for tonight I feel like myself again, like the Katherine who lived in Boston and knew what her place in the world was." The next song begins. Perhaps the entertainers had noticed the couple still on the floor in the romantic embrace, perhaps they had not, but the next song chosen is a romantic love song meant to be danced slower to. Ruby had no luck finding Jake from the stage but she also didn't see Colin or any recognizable Cowboys. After the set she and Madge go back to the Gay Lady and Madge talks excitedly about their performance. "Yes, " Ruby agrees as she dresses in her costume again, "It was wonderful and we should do it again soon." She is somewhat distracted but has a smile on just the same. They both change into costumes, Madge changing into a rather daring outfit made of black leather whose corset pushes up her chest to show ample cleavage, with fishnet stockings and gloves. She says, "It wouldn't have been appropriate to wear this earlier with the youngsters around." Ruby does note that the outfit makes Madge look far younger than her age of somewhere in her early thirties. Ruby dons her costume and returns to the main dance floor. Clarisse Townsend and Stanley Barker have both changed out of their costumes and into formal wear, Stanley wearing a neatly pressed black suit with starched white shirt and black bow tie. Clarisse is in a long-sleeved emerald green gown with black high heels. While Clarisse changes for her performance Stanley, Chester finds Helen near the stage. "Fine night for a festival, Helen. Mitch had to leave for Tombstone. Turns out that wasn't Mark Twain on stage earlier. It was most likely Johnny Ringo in disguise. Twain arrived at Tombstone OK, but didn't make the trip here. So Mitch is taking a stagecoach there." Helen says, "That was some disguise. I had no idea and I don't think too many others did either. Where's Ringo now?" "He got away. Mitch and Jake went to his room and he wasn't there. Drover's Livery was missing several horses and tack, so we guess him and some cowboys rode out of town. By the way, I'm sorry that you didn't win the shooting match. If it makes you feel any better, I've heard Corporal Briggs is supposed to be a deadeye." "Thank you Chet. At least I gave him a run for the money, but I could have done better." Ruby purchases a couple of drinks, downing the first one quickly. She dances with a few men before heading back for another beverage. As she stands on the side of the dance floor she watches her friends actually enjoying themselves dancing around in the masquerade. The masked man attired as a British Lord approaches Ruby. In a formal British accent he says to her, "A true blooded Lord may decide to bed a local wench if she satisfies his fancy in some way and he has the whim. Hmmm, quite an exotic and tantalizing outfit in which you strut about. I would wager you are a wild thing, wilder than even your costume would let on." Then in a commanding tone, "Dance with me." He seems accustomed to not being denied. Ruby raises an eyebrow but keeps her gaze on the dance floor. "Sir, calling a girl a wench before asking her to dance isn't exactly the way to get her to agree." Then she smiles mischievously, "And I'd imagine that you can't even imagine how wild I really am." "It would be quite naive and imprudent to underestimate anything about me." He steps close to her and raises his hands expectantly to touch hers. Then in a faint whisper of voice that Ruby has heard many times and knows so very well he says, "And yet the knight thanks his lucky stars every day that he has won the princess's heart." [url]http://users.adelphia.net/~clangtry/pics/JakesCostume01.jpg[/url] Ruby grasps his hands tightly in hers and breathes a sigh of relief. "I thought something might have..." she stops in midthought. She steps back and looks him up and down. "You bastard..." she says with a smile, shaking her head. "Ask me to dance again." He repeats in the same English upper crust voice and same commanding tone, "Dance with me." He then lowers his voice to Jake's natural speaking voice and adds, "...and I will be yours." "As you wish, my lord." Ruby curtseys low before him and stays low for just a moment too long. Then she rises and raises her hand in the proper fashion, waiting for Jake to lead her to the dance floor. Jake takes her firmly by the hand and pulls her to him on the dance floor. They begin their dance, Jake leading them easily around the other less agile and practiced dancers. Ruby fears melt away in her lovers arms and she mentions nothing of her earlier run in with Colin, forgotten in the moment. Jake keeps his English Lord act up and Ruby goes along with it... mostly. Dozens of other couples take to the dance floor. Off to the side of the dance floor, unseen or ignored by most, Jane Boag begins a long, silent prayer to her deity. A feeling of love and romance begins to fill the air, tweaking the emotions of those in the immediate vicinity of the dance floor. The slow song begins and Jake pulls Ruby even closer. "I thought you wanted to keep your identity a secret," Ruby whispers in Jake's ear. He replies, "I do, but how can I resist keeping you next to me?" Ruby smiles, "I've been waiting all night to get a kiss from you." "My lady, how can I make you wait any longer then?" Jake puts his hands on Ruby's face and kisses her and she returns the favor. "Finally my knight has shown up, I was afraid you were abandoning me." "Never!" Jake seals his words with another kiss. They continue their slow dance as if no one else was with them on the dance floor. Ruby nuzzles Jake neck and he holds her tightly. When Ruby finally looks up she notices Jane on the side of the dance floor. She is surprised to see her there and tries to catch her gaze when the petite woman looks up. She whispers to Jake, "It's almost time for me to help with the ceremony baby." Kate lifted up her head and looked around. "What was that you said about being all alone in the crowd? I think I forgot everyone else for a moment." She thought about pulling her arms back so they could dance properly, but left them where they were, enjoying the comfort of being close to someone again. The next twenty minutes of music are all songs of romantic interludes and the general atmosphere changes from one of tension to one of soft relaxation. Deputies Barker and Martin both wander up onto the stage together and stand near their respective love interests as the musicians change to a love ballad duet. Clarisse sings the woman's part in her sweet soprano voice while glancing affectionately at Chester while Stanley sings the man's part in his rich tenor voice while looking lovingly at his wife Helen. As the song is winding down Ruby notices that Arch-Bishop Dimitrios Tsaldaris is now walking around the general vicinity, just smiling and watching what is going on. It appears that he has not seen Jane Boag as of yet, who appears to still be in prayer. Stanley and Clarisse’s hour of music is rapidly coming to a close and they announce that the next song will be their last. [/QUOTE]
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