Cold Feelings

Autumn Festival

We arrived to the outer lands of Ulias by sundown. The green meadows and crops stretched far and wide from the city. In the distance you could make out the large buildings and giant Ferris wheel, a small glow from the lights illuminating the city in the receding sunlight. Evangeline looked back at her mother, who was sleeping in the back again. She decided not to wake her right now but wait till they got to the gates before Madam Lily's manor. Madam Lily was an old acquaintance of mother, who ran a brothel in Ulias.

Around the time Evangeline was born, Josephine left her home and ran away to Ulias in secret. Madam Lily found her before Josephine was caught illegally residing in Ulias. She took Evangeline's mother in and Josephine worked in the brothel to earn her and her daughter's keep. Evangeline only knew of her mother running away when she overheard some of the other girls working in the brothel talking. But her mother kept her past life a secret well, since that was all anyone ever knew about her.

When Evangeline turned 6 they moved to Kredan after her mother saved enough money. When Evangeline asked why they were moving, her mother only said they were safer in Kredan since they were still residing in Ulias illegally. Evangeline could only trust her mother was right since their life in Ulias was far better than in Kredan. Not that Evangeline minded once they got there. It was there she met her three best friends, Cori, Sid, and Cadence. Those days they played were some of the best memories she had before people started treating them differently.

She had known them for three years before their powers had emerged. Kori a fire mage, Sid and air mage, and Cadence...a lightning mage. After they left and cut her off from their lives she heard stories of their advancement from the capital. They were some of the most powerful mages ever to attend Saint Gideon's School for the Arcane, the most prestigious school on the continent for arcane studies. It both hurt and gave Evangeline pride to hear the news. Hurt because they no longer were her friends anymore. The day they left they made that very clear. Pride because although they did that, the idea that some of the poorest and weakest people in the kingdom made a name for themselves as powerful mages was an inspiring story. Evangeline would have felt happy for anyone in there stead.

Evangeline shook the memories from her thoughts and focused on the road.

"Here's to luck and fortune for us all." Evangeline whispered as she continued their way to Ulias.

"Papers! Have your papers out!" The city gate guards yelled at everyone we were traveling with.

The gates of Ulias were tall wooden walls. Guards walked the length of it and five were stationed before the entrance. They were there to check any incoming travelers before entering the city.

Evangeline pulled the horse to the side and reached into her pack to get the papers Madam Lily provided to them for proof of work. When one of the guards came up to their wagon Evangeline handed the papers to him.

The guard's gaze lingered on her and her mother before scanning the paperwork. Before reaching the gates, Evangeline woke her mother and rolled up the bed rolls and blankets. She then neatly organized everything to make it easier for the guards to check their belongings.

Once the guard was finished with the papers he handed them back and began checking their items in the wagon.

"All clear." He said as he waved Evangeline forward. The guard at the entrance held a hand up to Evangeline to stop the carriage before he and another guard spoke a few words. The words were part of a spell that allowed passage through the protective circle around the city. This was implemented a few years ago when the rise in demons started happening. Before, the protective circle only kept demons out but when it was discovered that the demons could now possess humans, they changed the spell to prevent anything from coming inside.

After the words were spoken a intricate blue circle appeared on the ground around the wagon. It shined for a second then disappeared, when it did Evangeline continued inside and through the gates.

The first time she saw that a few years ago Evangeline was beyond amazed. It was the first time she saw real magic in her life. Not the cheap parlor tricks that entertainers have shown her but real arcane magic, powerful magic. Now it didn't surprise her anymore but the gasps from the children behind her made her laugh softly as they left.

As always Ulias was bustling with life. Street merchants and walking citizens filled the streets. The buildings, stone and not wooden like Kredan, got higher and higher each year as more people migrated to Ulias. Musicians were on corners, bakeries and cafes open on many streets. From the many complaints of nobles she overheard it was nothing compared to the capital, but to Evangeline this was the most beautiful city she ever saw. 

"It's changed so much since we lived here." Her mother said as they rode past stores and parks that weren't there a few years back.

"It really has mother." Evangeline smiled. It was always like a dream when they returned to Ulias. Though most of the city has expanded and changed it still felt like home to her, no matter how long ago she lived here.

Evangeline rode down a narrow road and stopped the wagon in front of a building. This area was located between the city's middle and lower class sections. It was a tall and white stone building with a wooden sign above the door reading 'The White Lily' with a small lily next to it. 

Evangeline helped her mother off and together they walked to the door and knocked. A moment later the peephole opened and a pair of dazzling  red eyes looked at them. They widened when they recognized the mother and daughter and a second later the locks on the door clicked undone.

"Dear Josephine and darling Evangeline!" Madam Lily said as she opened the door and brought them into a giant hug. She was an older albino lady, older than Josephine, but her beauty was still apparent none the less.

"Madam Lily." Josephine said smiling politely.

"Madam." Evangeline said with a slight bow of the head.

"Oh I'm so happy you made it again this year. Please come in." Madam Lily opened the door to let them inside, then pointed to a tall man sitting on a stool by the entrance. "You, take their horse and wagon to the stalls. Make sure it gets cleaned as well." The man left outside and Madam Lily shut the door.

"Thank you for the work again Madam Lily." Josephine said to Lily as she shut the door.

"It's nothing darling, though I wish I could do more. Why a certificate to live here is so much I will never know." She shook her white curls then smiled. "Same room as before so let's get you both situated yes?" Madam Lily turned and walked down the hall to the main room. The White Lily was not all much to look at on the outside but a different world on the inside.

The cushions and furniture were made from fine silks. Beautiful glass and silverware made up most of the utensils and cups. Various sheets and drapes hung from the ceilings and walls to give the place a more exotic touch. Many nobles and upper class customers frequented the brothel so most items were gifts from them but their income was nothing to scoff at. s*x and romance was a thriving business anywhere so The White Lily managed to pull through when so many businesses come and go. If it wasn't for the large tax that was placed on the establishment Madam Lily would have purchased a larger building or even help more girls to help and find work. It always broke the Madam's heart to see someone in need and not being able to help.

For a time, Evangeline's mother was The White Lily's most popular female. Her beauty was a huge selling point but it was her personality that brought her customer's back. She was kind beyond words and always knew how to soothe even the most depressed client. Not only customers but the other employees of the brothel adored Josephine. She was a ruby among them all, a precious gem that stood out against it's dreary environment.

Evangeline on the other hand...well she inherited her mother's beauty she did not, however, inherit her personality. Evangeline had a sharp tongue and smart mind. Both befitting a child in poverty since street smarts were a necessity for survival in the city.

"Here we are." Madam Lily said as they approached their usual room. A small two bed room in the attic. "I left some extra clothes for you two in the drawers. Let me know if you need anything and we'll get to work at the festival later tonight." With that Lily left and walked down the stairs.

Both daughter and mother unpacked their belongings and laid in the beds. The beds here were always more comfortable than the one at their house.

"Think it'll be kitchen duty again mother?" Evangeline asked, moving to her side to face her mother. The room was small but cozy. A circular window was on the back wall of The White Lily and had a view of the main square with the ferris wheel. Being on an incline no buildings were in the way to block the view from the attic. It was her favorite room in The White Lily.

"I would believe so since that's all we were tasked with during these past years." Her mother sprawled herself in the silk sheets and sighed deeply. "How I always miss this part." Evangeline sighed in agreement and they both laughed.

After a while her mother got up and spoke.

"Come. Let us take a bath and ready ourselves." Reluctantly, Evangeline got up and did as she was told. Already counting the minutes before she could lay back in bed.

Josephine brushed and styled her daughters hair when they both were done taking a bath and dressing. Her mother was skilled at this and made the best braided designs in her daughter's red hair. The ornaments in their room were not for them to keep but to pretty themselves since they are representing Madam Lily as employees.

The clothes Madam Lily left were simple but stylish dresses that were off the shoulder. They reached their ankles and were a darker shade of red than their hair. Madam Lily always said this color suited them both.

As soon as her mother finished with her own hair they headed downstairs to the common room for employees. Madam Lily was there speaking with some of the girls.

"Countess Harriot is a huge client of ours Natalie, if you are not comfortable with woman then you may need to rethink working here."

She was talking to a pretty brunette girl with emerald eyes. Short curls and a petite frame.

"Madam no it's not that...it's just my first time with a woman." The girl named Natalie blushed as she looked down. "I am not sure I can please the Countess."

Madam Lily sighed and placed a hand on her cheek, thinking.

"That's true. Then let's do this, we will send one of the more experienced girls tonight, say that you were feeling unwell too. Then in the meantime you will be needing lessons on how to pleasure a lady such as the Countess from another. If you have such a person please ask them otherwise we will need to assign one of our girls to help you with that. Is that doable for you?" Natalie nodded and thanked the Madam, walking out the room and past Evangeline and her mother.

As she did Madam Lily notices us and waved us over.

"Is this Natalie a new employee?" Josephine asked as they approached her.

"Yes a complete newbie unfortunately. But she is very cute and asked for a job so I decided to take her in." Madam Lily sighed. "The Countess was particularly intrigued with her and asked for her personally."

"A Countess? How luck to have a noble as a client." Josephine smiled.

"Lucky indeed but you didn't need luck with that face of yours. Most of your clients were nobles too eager to empty their wallets for you my dear." They both laughed and Evangeline coughed. She came to terms with her mother's past employment but it wasn't like she was happy to hear about her mother's s*x life.

"Oh! Sorry dear just caught in nostalgia." The Madam laughed and began walking to the other end of the common room where her office door was. Pretty and beautiful girls were lounging in the couches and cushions here, and watched them as they walked by. Some familiar faces smiling and waving, while some new faces just staring in curiosity.

The entered Madam Lily's office and she closed the door behind them.

"Please take a seat ladies." Lily said as she made her way to the seat of her desk. Evangeline and her mother sat and waited as Lily shuffled through some papers on her desk.

"Forgive the mess but I have you tasks here somewhere." She pulled a small parchment from under a book. "Here is it! Alright let's have a look."

Lily put her glasses on and scanned the lists.

"First off we'll be doing something new this year. Business has been stable but not increasing. The rise in demon sightings have scared the general public and most of our clients have taken to isolating themselves in their houses. Smart as that is it is not good for us, so to bring in more clients to girls came up with a marvelous idea." Madam Lily removed her glasses and smiled her pearly teeth at them. "We will be putting on a exotic dance show for the adults at the festival. We've rented a tent and acquired the proper licenses from this already."

"What a fun idea." Josephine said with a soft smile. "But I'm sorry Madam...I cannot dance." The Madam held her hand up.

"I wouldn't dream of it Josephine dear. I was actually hoping Evangeline would be a dancer in the show instead." Evangeline sucked in a breath and looked at the Madam.

"Me?" She asked with wide eyes. The Madam nodded with a small smile.

"Your looks themselves are a huge selling point my dear, and with a little polishing you would shine like the gem your mother was. Can you dance?" Madam Lily asked to her.

Evangeline slowly nodded. Her mother had taught her some dances when she was younger but nothing like exotic dancing.

"I know of some dances but only ones taught to little girls."

"That's just fine. Most of the girls cannot dance themselves but that is why we have commissioned magic stones to help guide your movements. At the very least the dancer will need some dancing knowledge for them to work."

The idea of dancing was not what bothered Evangeline, her mother worked as an employee at the brothel so this was the least she could do as well. What worried her was the idea of not doing a good job.

"Madam are you sure I would be a good choice? I don't want to embarrass you or this business with my inexperience." The Madam smiled at Evangeline.

"Darling I gave a lot of thought on this and you are perfect. Forgive my bluntness but even if you don't dance well your looks and beauty are more than enough to sway the men and women in the audience. More and more you begin to look like your mother everyday and you can see what a goddess she is."

Josephine giggled and Evangeline blushed.

"If you say so Madam, then I am more than happy to do the job and do it as well as I can." Lily clapped her hands.

"Marvelous my dears. And Josephine, all you need to do is present each dancer when they go on. Now let's go have some dinner and get Evangeline fitted for her gown." 

After finishing dinner the Madam kept them so busy it was pretty much a blur to Evangeline. They moved boxes onto the carriages, packed equipment needed for their tent, and even helped with some last minute cooking for clients. The only break they got was the ride from The White Lily to the festival grounds.

They rode with the Madam and her girls in the carriages. Evangeline gazed out the window as they rode, admiring the busy streets as people made their way to the fair grounds. As shops closed and people left, many of the streets were empty.

Ulias was a large city in the shape of a U, and the island was a small circular piece of land that was a mile or so from it and housed the festival. It was in between Ulias and the ocean. Past the island to the right you could see the grand bridge off in the distance. Various other bridges connected the island to the city, and when the festival wasn't going, the island served as a large park for the citizens of Ulias.

It was dark by now, and as the carriage rode across the bridge Evangeline stared into the black waters, reflecting the golden lights of the festival lanterns and lamps. The music and laughter  getting louder as they neared. People wore masks and costumes, stalls held games, food, and prizes. If Ulias was a different world, then the festival was like a dream. It almost seemed like anything could happen here.

They arrived to their tent, a fairly large on on the edges of the island that faced the ocean and began unpacking. Evangeline helped move and began to start on organizing the seats wen the Madam came up to her.

"You can leave those to those not dancing, and instead go and get dressed. Once the tent is up and ready you and some others will go around passing flyers for our event." Evangeline nodded and the Madam turned to leave. But then she turned around as if remembering something. "Oh! But remember only give those out to the adults, and preferably those not here with a family." Evangeline laughed and nodded again.

She waked to the back and looked for the box with her name on it. Once she found it she took it to the changing room and opened it, pulling out the gown and magic jewelry it contained. Other women were there but stripping in front of them no longer bothered Evangeline since many of them walked around the brothel either in revealing clothing...or none at all.

 The gold painted bracelets and necklace she was given were adorned with red glowing stones. The minute Evangeline put them on, knowledge of dances flooded her mind. Each step timing, musical ques, etc.

"Pretty convenient magic is." She said under her breath when she finished clasping the necklace on. She heard a small laugh next to her and looked to see who it was.

An older women with pink hair smiled at Evangeline.

"I agree." She said and walked over to Evangeline. "Your the young girl with the mother right?"

Evangeline nodded and shook the lady's hand when she extended it.

"My names Anna, it's a pleasure to meet you." Anna said with a kind smile.

"You as well. My name is Evangeline." She replied, turning to fix her belt. The outfit the Madam decided on was a very revealing golden foreign two piece. The top was a strapless bra and the bottom a loose pair of pants with slits on the sides, revealing her legs. Transparent scarves and ribbons decorated her body.

Anna came over to help fix the belt for her and Evangeline moved to allow her. Anna tightened the belt and fixed her bra.

"There. All better." Anna said stepping back to look at Evangeline. "You my dear look like a golden empress."

"If only I had the coin to match." Evangeline joked, causing them both to laugh.

"Oh don't we all." Anna replied. "Though with your looks it wouldn't too far a stretch to find a wealthy husband. You may meet him here tonight."

Evangeline gave Anna a disbelieving look and shook her head.

"I have thought about it but...most men won't take my mother in and my reputation isn't something they want to deal with anyway." Anna gave Evangeline a knowing nod and grabbed a pile of papers on a nearby stool.

"Well, here's to work then. May the Goddess recognize your worth when others cannot." She handed a portion of papers to Evangeline and left the tent. When Evangeline looked down at the papers she saw they were the flyers for The White Lily's show.

With a long sigh Evangeline fixed her hair, the braid her mother made still intact, and walked outside as well.

Many, many, many men watched her as she walked through the crowds. If it wasn't for the mask she wore Evangeline would have ducked her head lower while she walked. The mask was golden like her outfit and only her blue eyes were visible beneath them. Many other people wore mask but their outfits were more modest than hers to say the least.

As she walked through the crowds, handing out the flyers with a smile to both men and women who looked interested, Evangeline enjoyed the scenery of the festival. The moon was high in the sky and the glow from the stalls and amusement rides were the only light around. Children running around, couples walking hand in hand, and laughter all around. This was why the festival was so successful every year.

After nearly giving out all her flyers, and receiving promises from numerous men and women to stop by, Evangeline looked up at one of the street clocks and saw it was half past midnight.

"Guess I'll start heading back." She said, raising her arms up above her head to stretch. The strong arms grabbed her waist and turned her around.

Evangeline only gasped as she came face to face with a clown mask. She stood still and stared from the surprise.

Suddenly a familiar laugh came from behind the mask as the man pulled Evangeline to a nearby tent and removed it. Jackson's green eyes met hers and she smiled.

"Jackson?! I didn't expect to see you here." Evangeline said with a smile. "Much less get to talk with you again." Jackson smiled back and scratched his head.

"About that..." He laughed nervously. "I had to report what I told you to my boss and now they see you as a kind of liability to our operation in Ulias. They wanted me to keep an eye on you and close if possible. My new cover being a lonely merchant in search of comfort." Jackson looked uncomfortable with this.

"And I'm to be your interest?" She laughed.

"They think it would actually seem more normal for someone like me to seek a fling with one of the ladies here." Jackson groaned. "I can't say I don't agree but it's not ideal for me either way."

"Well why not? I'm pretty enough." Evangeline smiled.

"Oh please excuse my tone, any man would be lucky to stand near you. I am just wanting the man." Jackson joked.

"Well then I will comply with whatever you need me to do, Mister Jackson." She said with a smiling, bowing slightly for show.

"Miss Evangeline, a pleasure." He laughed. "Welcome to my shop."

The tent he brought them into was a small shop filled with masks.

"You sell masks?" She said looking around at the different masks on display. A small counter was located opposite of them containing a register, and the only light coming from the strung light bulbs all along the ceiling of the tent.

"Yes for now. A merchant's trade can vary on occasion." Jackson said, walking over to the counter and pulling out a pen and paper.

"Well it's nice to see you again after we parted ways when our group reached Ulias." She walked over to Jackson and saw he was scribbling designs of a mask on the piece of paper. They resembled her own. "Why are you sketching my mask."

"It's very...alluring." He laughed. "Might I ask why you are dressed in such a tempting way?" Jackson said gazing at Evangeline from top to bottom.

"I'm working for Madam Lily of The White Lily. This year she has a tent for an exotic dance shows to bring in more customers." Jackson turned his head to look at her again.

"And you're dancing?" He asked. Reaching for Evangeline's mask and removing it.

"Unfortunately yes, I don't care much for dancing but...work is work I suppose." Evangeline said. She leaned on the counter while and looked out the opening in the tent to the passing crowds.

They stood there for a moment, enjoying the soft music coming in.

"If you could choose to do something else, would you?" Jackson asked as he also leaned on the counter next to me, watching the crowds.

"Yeah I guess." Evangeline sighed. "I'm sure most people have felt that way at least sometimes."

Jackson still played with Evangeline's mask before handing it back to her.

"What would you choose? If you could become anything in the world?" Jackson's green eyes reflected the light outside and for a moment, Evangeline thought she could make out the green aura around him. How she missed the colors.

"No use thinking about useless thoughts and plus I should head back. You should come if you'd like, there are mostly girls there but a few men who work at the Lily." Evangeline said as she moved from the counter. After putting on her mask she walked towards the door then stopped, looking back to see Jackson staring at her with a sad smile. She smiled back. "But if such useless thoughts did occupy my mind, I would want choose to become an Arcane Knight." Jackson laughed, but not in a rude way. He seemed impressed.

"I guess if we had to dream we should dream big." Evangeline looked at Jackson a moment more before turning around.

"Have a good evening Jackson." She said then left the tent to walk back. 

Evangeline was once again surrounded by the crowds, laughter, and music of the festival. She observed the children running around a little more closely and wondered if they dreamed of becoming an Arcane Knight as well.

Surely a few of them did. The thought that she may share a few aspirations as some of the people around her lightened her heart a bit. Whether it was because she felt more normal or a little closer to those around her she didn't know, but she knew she didn't feel quite as alone as she did.

"What a stranger few weeks this has been." She laughed, looking up at the twin moons. They were entering their waning phase. "Luck and fortune huh? Maybe this will finally be our year right?"

The cool wind blew around Evangeline and she hummed the rest of the way back. A slight skip to her step as she did.

The first night of dancing went fairly well. A good amount of customers were brought in and a few of the dancers were already booked with new clients. A few asked about Evangeline and her mother but Madam Lily was quick to shut that down and replaced their interest with others. Jackson didn't come either.

Evangeline wasn't too keen on the sensual dance she performed but she was happy with the results. She even got a bit of coin from the audience who tossed them. On top of her pay she estimated she tripled what her hourly pay was from the Madam.

"Keep looking at the coin bag and you're going to make it blush." Anna said to Evangeline. She was sitting in a cushioned chair in the lounge area, holding the bag in the air admiring it's weight. Anna was walking by when she noticed what she was doing.

"It'll have to get used to it then. I've never made so much coin in one day." Evangeline replied, making Anna laugh.

"Consider working here full time then. You'll see more of that in a night if you take in clients." Anna said.

"Anna I'm practically the girl's aunt, please don't try to recruit her." Madam Lily said from behind Anna, scaring us both with a slight jump. "Now come we have to start heading out for the second day."

Evangeline and Anna both replied in agreement and headed back to their rooms to change. 

Again Evangeline was going to wear the golden outfit but this time Madam decided to change the mask. Instead of the earlier one that covered everything but her eyes this time it was a mere cloth meant to cover her mouth. The Madam also had her mother leave her hair down with a decorated braid in the back. Gold beads and hair ornaments were used as well.

Not just the clothing and jewelry but the Madam had Evangeline wear makeup and nail paint this time as well, all gold like the rest.

"All done." Evangeline heard her mother say as the brush left the front of her closed eyes. "I applied the makeup so you may open your eyes now." Evangeline did so and heard a gasp from her mother and a few of the other people in the room.

"What?" Evangeline asked, feeling embarrassed the makeup did not suit her. She looked from her mother's wide eyes to the Madam's approving nod. "Is it okay?" She finally asked getting up to search for a mirror.

"More than fine my dear it's something else." Madam Lily said as she grabbed her hand and lead her to a body mirror. Evangeline couldn't help but gasp at her image as well.

Is that me?

Although the outfit was much the same, the changes to her face seemed to bring out it's beauty more. The gold outfit accented Evangeline's caramel skin beautifully. Her red hair standing out like a wildfire, and the ornaments in them shinning in the light. Although the mask this time only covered her mouth it forced attention to her eyes, a startling blue that pierced through the red and gold. The gold makeup lined her eyes and a few swirls were added for decoration on her forehead and cheeks.

"You're breathtaking darling." Evangeline's mother said under her breath. Evangeline smiled and turned to her mother.

"I have you to thank for that then." Her mother giggled and walked over to Evangeline to hug her. "Let's do out best tonight as well." Evangeline hugged back with a small sound of agreement.

"Let's all do our best tonight." Madam Lily agreed and everyone cheered.

"With out pretty little fire goddess we're sure to keep the masses coming." A man in the back said. He was a dancer from his shirtless outfit.

"Yeah even I can't take my eyes off her." Natalie said with admiring eyes. Everyone laughed and Evangeline blushed again, a deeper shade than the makeup on her cheeks.

The Madam gave us last minute words of encouragement and we all set off to the festival again. Spirits were higher than yesterday and everyone had a smile on their face.

"I missed this." Evangeline heard her mother say from beside her in the carriage. It was a large carriage that fit 6 people, and the other 4 people there were deep in jovial conversation.

"Me too mom." Evangeline said reaching for her mother's hand and squeezing it. "It's only today and tomorrow but we'll be back next year." Her mother continued to smile at the other dancers in the carriage. Then she leaned her head on her daughter's shoulder.

"I already can't wait."

Evangeline was pacing back and forth backstage. Anna was currently up and she was soon to go on after. They didn't have to pass out flyers this time since the first night became such a big event, word of mouth did all their advertising for them. What did make Evangeline anxious was that it was a packed house, even with more people standing around the walls of the tent to watch. Evangeline was also starting to feel shy without the full face mask on.

She was still pacing when a hand touched her back. Evangeline whipped around with a start. Natalie was standing there with a shy smile.

"Nervous?" She asked. Evangeline could only nod as her heart was racing. "Don't be. Most of those men and women out there aren't even that pretty to look at." They both laughed.

"I had more confidence when no one was actually able to see my face." Evangeline said, feeling itchy all of a sudden.

"If I looked the way you did Evangeline, I wouldn't bother with a mask." Natalie went about straightening Evangeline's outfit while she talked.

"You have a presence about you that commands the room to listen and watch. If anything, they'll be the ones who blush and look away, too shy to gaze upon a living goddess." Natalie then fixed Evangeline's posture and pushed her chin up a bit. "I hope I have a daughter like you some day. I cannot imagine how proud Josephine is. Now shake off those nerves and show them that Evangeline is no weak willed woman." Than with that Natalie smile and turned to leave. Evangeline was left to stand there staring after here.

Anna's music ended and a loud applause soon followed. Though still a little nervous, Natalie's words gave Evangeline a new sense of determination. When Anna walked off she stopped when she noticed Evangeline's expression.

"All fired up I see?" She laughed, then placed a hand on her shoulder. "Knock them dead."

Evangeline nodded with a smile and walked onto the stage with the style and grace of the other dancers. She kept her eyes down, like practice, and as the sole spotlight was on her she looked up when the music started.

Halfway through the dance Evangeline noticed that the eyes she met in the audience were not on her body but looking directly into her own. She saw first hand how much her light blue eyes stood out but she did not expect the reaction with the audience. Knowing that many of their eyes were watching her face made her a little more comfortable with her body movements.

The stones gave her mental ques on what to do.

Right foot out, right arm up. Left foot cross, left arm hold opposite hip.

Unlike last time, Evangeline lost herself in the dance since her mood was a good one. She started to have fun. Her next movements had her face the audience and she looked up into it. An intense gaze catching her attention. A man sitting in the middle near the back.

Bright purple eyes met her blue ones from behind a raven mask. They met her gaze with an unwavering steadiness in them. The man's eyes, something seemed...familiar about them. Although caught off guard, Evangeline's movements did not falter.

She noticed the man was a tall and well built fellow. The sharp jawline underneath the raven's beak suggested that he was handsome as well. He wore a fine black suit and black gloves. The man had black hair that reached his broad shoulders. Compared to the other men cheering and throwing coins, this man sat absolutely still as his eyes followed Evangeline across the stage.

Suddenly she was conscience of her bare skin and hip movements. She looked away many times and back to see if the man was still staring with that intense gaze. Every time she did he was, and it seemed it got stronger, like the man didn't want her to look away. His purple eyes sent a tingly sensation through her body, not quite goosebumps, but a sort of electric feeling. As the dance continued Evangeline decided to keep her eyes away from the man.

He looks like trouble...and a little dangers. Best not show any interest in him.

When the music ended, Evangeline was out of breath and sweating a little. She tried not to but looked up again...still the man was watching her. She felt one bead of sweat roll down the side of her face and for a moment it looked like the man's eyes followed it. Then Evangeline blinked and his eyes were back on her.

His eyes could not possible be that good, right?

When someone sitting next to the man whispered in his ears, Evangeline noticed for the first time the other two still figures on either side of him, both watching her with but not with the same intensity as the raven. A women with pink eyes and another man with green eyes a different more darker shade than Jackson's, though they're costumes all varied in styles. Whereas the man with the purple eyes wore black, the woman was dressed in a gown a dark shade of pink with a matching butterfly mask. The other man was in a similar suit that was green and had a mask of leaves. Everyone's gazes were on her but their eyes were not of people enjoying a show. They looked to be analyzing her.

Evangeline kept staring at those purple eyes and he kept staring back. She couldn't look away until the curtains closed. Evangeline sucked in a large breath and realized she was holding her breath. Quickly. she collected her coin and walked off stage.

When she reached the edge of the stage she stopped and looked at the ends of the curtain. Slowly she pulled it back and scanned the audience for the man.

He's gone...they're all gone.

Letting the curtain go she walked backstage to deposit her coin into her coin purse. Shaking off the weird encounter as a trio of weirdos. The rest of the night was spent without any more oddities.

"We've met our quota everyone." Madam Lily sang when they returned to the brothel's lounge room. "No only that but the extra coin we received put us in a good position for a few week. So tonight we feat and celebrate." Everyone cheered and laughed. Madam Lily let them do so for a bit then held her hand up for silence again. "That being said, I've decided to let those who want a break to enjoy the festival tomorrow night to do so. Anyone who does want to make a little more coin can continue to dance tomorrow night, but we won't be needing any to run the dance show for the last day." Again everyone cheered. "Please come to my office later if you would like to dance tomorrow night still. For now rest and enjoy your hard earned rewards."

Madam Lily left to her office as most everyone moved to the dining area for food and drinks. Evangeline did so as well and grabbed a plate for her mother, who was sitting in the lounge area resting on a couch.

"Thank you so much darling." Her mother said as Evangeline handed the plate of hot food to her. Evangeline then placed the cup of wine on the table by the couch and took the empty seat next to her mother.

"When you're done I'll help you take a bath before bed." Evangeline said as she pulled her legs up and got comfortable on the couch.

"What did I do to deserve such a wonderful daughter." Her mother giggled as she reached over to pinch Evangeline's cheek.

"You were just as wonderful as a mother." Evangeline smiled taking a bite of her food. It was a simple dish of grilled fish and vegetables, but the seasoning made it divine. Evangeline didn't buy spices since it seemed like a waster of money, what they did use was the ones her mother grew which wasn't all that tasty. 

Every time they came to Ulias, Evangeline made sure to savor the food for the three days she was here. She also made sure to give her mother some wine as well since that was another luxury she didn't indulge in but the woman loved alcohol.

A memory from last year made Evangeline laugh. Her mother turned to her with a curious look.

"Something funny darling?" Evangeline laughed a little harder.

"You remember your drunken show last year?" Evangeline asked, adoring the way her mother's cheeks turned red with the recollection.

"Oh darling don't bring this up please." She groaned looking down in shame.

"You flirted with one of the stone head busts in the brothel for a whole hour." Evangeline blurted out with a loud laugh.

"Yes I recall dear, please do me the courtesy of forgetting that as I am trying to do." Her mother said still looking down but laughing as well. "You all must have had a big laugh at me."

"It was cute mom. When the statue refused to talk with you, you even said, "How rude! It's like I'm talking to a statue!" Then you turned around a walked away."

"Leaving behind any dignity I had left." Her mother laughed.

"It's fun seeing those sides of you. You're usually so polite." Evangeline laughed. Her mother pinched her cheeks again.

"It's nice seeing you smile more as well. It really brings out your charm." Evangeline scoffed and took a sip of her own wine.

"I have about as much charm as that statue." Evangeline said as she burst back out into laughter. Her mother only sighed as she ate her food quietly.

Evangeline did so as well and with a smile. She watched as the other employees walked to and fro, some heading into Madam's Lily office to request to dance. Evangeline decided to head over when she was done eating and bathing as well. They made more than they needed but more coin always seemed like a good choice.

When both her mother and Evangeline were done eating they headed upstairs and bathed. The bath oils and scented soap always gave both mother and daughter an eagerness to soak in. It was bliss to leave the hot bath smelling like flowers.

As soon as Evangeline helped her mother into bed, Josephine noticed she was heading downstairs.

"Where you going darling?" She asked. Evangeline turned at her question.

"Downstairs to Madam Lily. I want to request to dance the final day." Evangeline replied.

Her mother gave her a tired look but nodded.

"I was hoping you would relax and enjoy the festival but I suppose that is a wiser choice. At the very least see if you can work half the event darling. Please?" Her mother's eyes looked melancholy and Evangeline only nodded.

"I'll ask." Then Evangeline headed downstairs.

The halls and rooms were silent and empty since many of the other employees had retired to get some sleep, but Evangeline knew the Madam would be up still. That lady never seem to get any sleep.

Evangeline paused in front of Lily's office door then knocked softly. A moment later a reply came from the other side.

Evangeline opened the door and walked in, the sun was rising from her open window. The festival was open late in the day and throughout the night but their dance event was only open during the night. It gave a sense of mystery as the Madam put it.

"Yes my dear?" Madam Lily asked from behind her desk. She didn't look up and instead kept her eyes on the papers in front of her.

"Sorry to disturb you Madam, but I came to request to continue dancing the final day." Evangeline didn't want to take up too much of her time so she got straight to the point.

Madam Lily finished reading the paper in front of her before answering. She looked up and looked at Evangeline from above her glasses.

"Really? I thought with all the extra coin you've already made, that you and your mother would want to enjoy your last day in Ulias no?" 

"I'd much rather make money than take a break." Evangeline replied softly.

"How much have you made, on top of what I paid you, this past two days?" Madam Lily leaned back in her chair and folded her arms, waiting while Evangeline added the coins up.

"Around 53 copper and 178 silver."She replied.

Madam Lily thought about this for a moment then got up from her chair. She walked over to the cabinet in the corner of the office and retrieved a small bag.

"I would be lying if I said you did not contribute to much of the wealth we saw during this event. In fact, quite a few of the men, some women, asked if you were dancing when buying the tickets." Evangeline watched as she pulled out two gold coins from the bag. "I'd say you're due for a raise."

"Madam...I can't possibly take that..." Evangeline began but the Madam only rolled her eyes and forced the coins into her hands.

"Nonsense my dear. You and your mother have more than earned it. It may ruin your image of me but I ask yo both to come back every year for a reason. Your beautiful faces are wasted in Kredan." Then the Madam turned and sat back in her chair. "Now please think nothing of working the final day. Enjoy your time at the festival darling, maybe take your mother on a few rides." With a smile and a wave the Madam excused Evangeline from the room.

Evangeline could only nod as she turned and left.

I can't wait to tell mother the news!