In the tallest tower, fit for a princess- Closed

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
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have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

[/b][/font] 1,173
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
song:When the Clouds - Rise On
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0[/ul][/font][/font][/div]

[Sura Haughton]

The dawn is breaking, a light shining through.
even the best fall down sometimes.

There was something about getting ready to go out to anywhere that required remotely transforming herself that calmed Sura. When she was in front of her mirror, she was in charge. Every stroke of colour, every curl, every pin. It was her choice. It went the way that she wanted it to, and that was that. She didn't have to worry about anyone or anything interfering, so the fact that she was going all out for Halloween this year was downright soothing. It was the only time of the year where you could completely change yourself and no one would mind. Of course, she wasn't going too outrageous with her transformation this evening; her eyes were the accent, while everything else was muted and natural. She had just finished curling her hair, the tips of which she had charmed to a peacock green and blue. She tugged lightly at her hair, trying to pull it to where she wanted it. Shockingly, it was co-operating for once. Sura gazed into the mirror, pressing her lips together at the girl looking back. She looked bright, dewy, and calm, exactly the way a seventh year lady should look on the way to her final Halloween Ball; this was almost comical, considering that she had felt like anything but for the last few weeks.

She had felt...not right, as of late. There were moments that she was suddenly lightheaded, and if she didn't grab onto something or sit down, she found her legs would give out from beneath her. The feeling passed almost as quickly as it came on almost every time, and she hadn't once lost herself to the dark that felt as though it were pressing in on her. A visit to the Hospital Wing had garnered her a more potent Pepper-Up potion from the nurse, and it had helped some. But it seemed that as soon as her dizzy spells had seemingly ceased, she began to have the strangest dreams. Well, if you could even call them that. They were mostly flashes of images, some fuzzy and some clear as day. They rarely seemed to have any sort of connection, yet when she woke from them, she felt as though she had just run a marathon. Only recently had they ceased, and she was relieved that she could finally get a decent night's sleep. It was probably all due to the stress of being in her final year, having to decide what she wanted to do for the rest of forever... How could you not panic when someone told you that you had less than a year to find your life's calling? Even the most prepared could be set to quiver at the thought.

The letter from Gavin requesting her to be his date for the Halloween Ball had come right in what would end up being the middle of her set of episodes, and she was quite thankful that it had been more than three weeks since she'd last felt faint or had woken up with ragged breath; that was a situation full of questions she sincerely did not want to even attempt to answer. After some thought, she had accepted. They'd only ever really spoken to one another when nakedness or alcohol had been involved, but that didn't mean that they could get along well enough without either of those two things, did it? Sure, she'd seen and heard him being enough of a prat to other students, but he'd never treated her like that, and she was assuming that if he was inviting her to a public outing, he wasn't about to start now. So for the last month, she had simply dodged invitations from other young men attempting to court her. She never mentioned his name, for concern that some of the girls in Gavin's little fan club might hear of it and call for her head. Boy, did Gavin have some crazed, lust-struck ladies after him...

She walked out into the bedroom she shared with the other seventh year Ravenclaws and pulled her corset and shorts off of the hanger. Sura flicked her wand, the corset springing to life and tying her in without cutting off her breathing. She slipped into her shorts and tutu, wondering vaguely if Gavin was having any second thoughts or reservations about attending with her. He would definitely be getting an earful from her if he decided to not show up, that much she was certain of... After all, he was rarely, if ever, seen out in public with someone on his arm that wasn't a Slytherin. However, she had a good feeling about tonight, even though the whole situation seemed a little out of character. She liked Gavin well enough, and she felt like he liked and respected her enough to not stand her up. Sura flicked her wand again, sending her charmed spray of a peacock tail into place. It could be worn up or down, and changed at will so that it wouldn't ever be in her way. Turning to look in the mirror at herself, a small smile rested on her lips. This was the first time she had put the entire outfit on together, and she couldn't have been happier in it. Her smile spread into a grin when she wondered what Gavin would say about it. He always had a remark or two when it came to pretty girls in pretty outfits, and she couldn't say that she didn't like hearing them.

A tapping sound sent her pulse up to match the rhythm, and she looked towards where the Common Room and House exit would be. Gavin was waiting for her, it seemed. She pulled on her boots quickly, tucking her wand in near her hip. Being a Prefect, she was expected to carry it. However, she couldn't say that a little bit of misbehaving was out of the question just because of her new title. It was her last year at Galaxia; could they blame her for wanting to enjoy the night? It was a night where you were expected to lose yourself, to have no regret, to enjoy yourself completely, wasn't it? She started toward the door, the heels of her boots clicking softly against the stones. Sura strode through the Common Room, which was full of students in various states of costume. They would all be at the dance later on. But before she paid anyone else any mind, she had a dinner to attend.

She skimmed down the steps with a sure foot, having walked and ran them thousands of times. A peculiar twanging sound grew louder as she walked, a male humming joining it as she approached the landing. When she reached the bottom, her eyes immediately fell on Gavin. He had picked Robin Hood, it seemed, as a costume for the night, and he made it look absolutely divine. The smile on his lips made her own curve up in a coy manner as she sauntered over to him. "Good evening, Gavin." she said softly, letting her eyes drop down his body. She would have to voice her complaints about his choice of pants over tights later on. "You look dashing, as per usual."

I'm quiet you know; you make a first impression.
i somehow find you and i collide.

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for: gavin
clothing: see halloween thread
music: collide - howie day
words: 1206
notes: you found a killer gif.

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
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[/i] making a dramatic show of bowing his greeting to her, like he was capable of being humble, he righted himself with a suggestive smirk. ”You look dashing, as per usual.” “I do, don't I?” See, very humble indeed. He extended an arm toward the staircase that had just settled it's path near their right, they had a little bit of a walk which he hoped that she wouldn't mind. Placing his other hand on her lower back, taking care to mind the feathers as he did and moved them forward toward the staircase. “You do justice in the name of corsets everywhere” he stated simply, talking to her but facing forward “I can't say that I ever recall ever being jealous of an article of clothing before” he shot her another sideways glance as he ascended the first step, his hand resting respectfully on the back of her costume. Despite his best efforts to be out and about before the rush of students started to migrate toward the great hall, there were a fair share of students lining the hallways. Naturally, they gave them a wide berth and the first years (who weren't supposed to attend due to the late hour they would be returning to their dorm) were staring at them as they passed by.

It was the oddest thing, the fact that the students they were passing seemed to be looking more at Sura than himself. It was arrogant of him to assume that he would be the center of attention, but he normally was. Perhaps it was the hood. Perhaps it was the fact that she was wearing feathers. Either way it was unsettling, but he wasn't sure if it was in a good or bad way just yet. “I'm glad that you chose to attend with me, rather than your other suitors” he actually had no idea if she had any suitors or not, he assumed that looking the way that she did would have enough men making offers to her. It was always good to assume that she did rather than the opposite. Insulting ladies generally wasn't the best idea if you still wanted something from them. He had no intention of turning this into an interview or tell your life story date, though she was welcome to if she really wanted, this was only a date because he needed to escape his personal life for a short while. “but then again” he started, shooting her a bright, charming smile “Who would really turn me down?” Gavin's smile melted away into a shadow of the expression, “you are good company though, you know that” it was the closest thing to a real statement that he had given her, not even to mention that this was their longest conversation without innuendos to date.

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have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

[/b][/font] 1,048
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
song:When the Clouds - Rise On
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0[/ul][/font][/font][/div]

[Sura Haughton]

The dawn is breaking, a light shining through.
even the best fall down sometimes.

The look on Gavin's face, for but a moment as she strode toward him, was mild confusion. She wasn't that unrecognizable, was she? However, the smile that soon appeared back on his lips indicated that he was now well aware of who was approaching him. She gazed in silence, with naught but a smile on her lips. He was clearly taking her in, and she was not one to rush a man when he was busy being appreciative. Strangely, she did not feel the least bit insecure as Gavin's eyes wandered over her. She knew exactly how she looked, and exactly how good she looked. The thought might be a little conceited, but then again, didn't every girl deserve to feel that way once in a while? So much time and effort had been put into making sure that she looked her absolute best for the evening, and if she felt any less than stunning, she would not have left her bedroom.

As she stopped in front of him, he nodded, seemingly in approval of her attire and look for the night. That was a good thing. It meant that he was hers for the evening. Frankly, when she was out with a boy, whether or not they were an item, she did not like to share. His sudden and dramatic bow made her giggle as she swept one arm out to the side and crossed one ankle behind the other, bending into a deep and ladylike curtsy. Her mother would be proud that she hadn't lost touch with her manners. As she drew herself back up, she was met with a rather suggestive smirk. Obviously, she was in for an interesting evening with Gavin. ”I do, don't I?” Absolutely classic Gavin; ever the modest mouse of Slytherin house. Then again, she didn't expect any other sort of reply; she would have thought he was ill otherwise. Sura captured her bottom lip between her teeth, grinning as she chuckled. She had to admit that she had missed Gavin's sass.

Her head turned to the right at Gavin's gesture and the sound of the staircase settling to a halt near them. She wasn't entirely sure where Gavin planned on wining and dining her, but knowing him, it was going to be something to remember. He didn't do anything half-assed; it seemed to be all out or not at all, something that Sura was perfectly alright with. Gavin's hand settled on her lower back and steered her towards the staircase. Going up. Sura stepped in a little closer to Gavin so as not to make his arm uncomfortable as they walked. She could feel the heat radiating off of his body, and it was pleasant, considering that her outfit was a little breezy. ”You do justice in the name of corsets everywhere. I can't say that I ever recall being jealous of an article of clothing.” Sura chuckled low in her throat, turning to look up at Gavin through her lashes as she smiled. She caught him glancing sideways to look at her. Did he ever know how to compliment a girl. ”Gavin, you flatter me. And of course there is a first time for anything. But don't worry, you need not be too jealous of the corset.” His hand remained flush on the small of her back, but she wondered vaguely if that was exactly where he wanted it to be...

As they walked the halls and stairs on the way to wherever it was that they were headed, Sura gazed about her surroundings. They were already garnering stares, and more than once she met the eyes of a student that was eying her carefully. One female student sneered at her when she recognized who's hand was on Sura's back, a kind of disgusted scoff escaping her lips. Sura pressed her lips together and frowned, taking a deep breath through her nose. It was all she could do to not verbally tear the girl in half. Really, it was one thing to be jealous of another girl's date, but it was another thing entirely to be venomous about it. As the pair continued on, Sura realized that there really were a lot of eyes on them, on her. Was it because they were an unlikely and surprise pair? Or perhaps the fact that she was covered in feathers? Either way, they were receiving a lot of attention for it, and Sura was a little caught by surprise. Was it really that impossible to fathom that she was attending the dance with Gavin, and Gavin with her, instead of someone else? Apparently, Gavin had been thinking just about the same thing that she had, as his voice broke their silence not a moment later. ”I'm glad that you chose to attend with me, rather than your other suitors. But then again,” he said, turning his head to flash her that bright smile that she was sure could break hearts. ”Who would really turn me down?”

Sura's eyebrows rose and her lips parted as she drew breath to speak. ”I can assure you that I was pleased to accept your invitation, Gavin,” she purred, his name rolling off her tongue, her accent mingled through her words. ”I believe that I may have broken some hearts when I had to turn down some requests, though.” Admittedly, it had been a bit of a surprise when she had received Gavin's owl. She had not expected him to ask her to the Ball. However, the invitation had been quite welcome nonetheless, and she had replied within the week. Sura liked Gavin as a person, and she was just so damn curious about the boy. On top of that, he was kind to her, and he was fun; what more could a girl ask for in a date? ”But, I think I picked the right man in the end,” she breathed, the corners of her lips tugging upwards.

Gavin's face softened, a mere hint of the previous smugness held there. ”You are good company though, you know that.” Sura's heart could have melted right then and there. She felt a touch of colour rise to her cheeks, just a hint of a blush. That was one of the first compliments that he had ever given her that hadn't been about her body or the things she did with it. She liked it. It was a nice change of pace. Sura returned his smile with an equally warm one. ”Thank you, Gavin, really. You know, I wouldn't be here if I didn't feel the same about you.” And it was true. She had never been one for obligatory dates, never been one to go anywhere with another person if she didn't really want to. Obviously, she liked Gavin enough to have been here in the first place, and his last comment made her like him even more. She liked that he thought of her as a person and good company, instead of just another girl he'd bedded. Maybe a friendship, an actual friendship (not just the “with benefits” kind), wasn't completely out of their reach.

They walked in silence for a few moments more, a smile now pinned on her lips, half in complement after-glow, half in excitement about the night. She had completely tuned out the other students around them, at this point. She hadn't been dancing since the summer, and it was something that she enjoyed. Sura was entirely determined to have fun this evening, and she knew that it was going to happen with Gavin around. ”So,” she chirped brightly, looking up at him again. ”You still haven't told me where we're going, Mister Dewhurst. Are you going to break and tell me or are you going to make me wait?”

I'm quiet you know; you make a first impression.
i somehow find you and i collide.

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for: gavin
clothing: see halloween thread
music: collide - howie day
words: 1324
notes: n/a

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

[/i] it in a strictly horizontal application. ”Gavin, you flatter me. And of course there is a first time for anything. But don't worry, you need not be too jealous of the corset.” He shook his head, playing along “Don't patronize me Sura, I will have my vengeance on that corset for igniting my jealousy” he laughed, only half joking. He couldn't honestly say that he hadn't had at least one fleeting thought about how on earth he was going to get that thing off of her. Any man with a pulse would have.

He steered Sura from the first staircase to the second. Her common room was very poorly located after all. If he had worn a watch, he would be able to tell if he needed to speed things along or not. He was interested in the way that Sura was keeping her head up despite the people that were around them. True to her breeding, she seemed to be above it. He should have expected no less. ”I can assure you that I was pleased to accept your invitation, Gavin,” Merlin. Her soft accent mingled with her purr, he had spoken to her about this last time they had been alone together. He wasn't sure if she was doing it to tease him, or if she was doing it to show off her new status to the jealous girls around them. If the latter, he should be offended but it was hard to think clearly whenever she put on that tone. Normally, it was only whenever they were alone and the lights were dimmed before she broke at out. His hand twitched against her back, but he said nothing, his lips only upturning slightly at her tone. If luck was with him, she wouldn't have noticed the twitch through the feathers and fabric. ”I believe that I may have broken some hearts when I had to turn down some requests, though.” he could believe it, she was a winning lady. She ought not to have been put into such a idiotic house. There were more than enough intelligent people in Slytherin, even if that wasn't the focus of their house. At least then she might have some better prospects.

”But, I think I picked the right man in the end,” He nodded in turn “I would agree with you, it was the only smart choice after all” he refrained from laughing as a tiny girl they passed on the stairs let out what he could only assume was a ill-concealed choke of despair. He was tempted to rub it in the girls face a little more, but that would be petty. “Though some might disagree” he said with a smile, pulling Sura just a little bit closer. He was no stranger to attention, this was normal for him. He just didn't think that Sura had the same penchant for it, it might be unsettling, the cruel things that people were going to be saying of her tomorrow. Gavin had no doubt in his mind that she could handle herself, her skin was more than thick enough for it. Another thing that he had considered whenever asking her. He really was growing to be quite fond of her, even if she didn't, and wouldn't know it. ”Thank you, Gavin, really. You know, I wouldn't be here if I didn't feel the same about you.” his haughty expression overtook his face once more as he shrugged “Obviously” his tone lofty, but he took her words to heart. Turning toward a final staircase the drone of the other students started to fall behind them, fading more with each footsteps as he led them in the direction of their intended tower. He hadn't taken the breeze into factor since he hadn't known what her costume was going to be, but it could be fixed easily enough with a few charms if it became an issue. ”So, You still haven't told me where we're going, Mister Dewhurst. Are you going to break and tell me or are you going to make me wait?” he made a tsk'ing sound with his tongue “The anticipation is half of the fun” his hand extended forward and pulled the lever that gained them passage to another set of stairs, which would lead them to the balcony he had commandeered for the evening. Holding a hand out for her since the winding stairway was too small for them to fit next to each other without ruining her feathers he let her go on first. “Top of the stairs” he said softly into her ear since he was standing directly behind her.

As he shut the door behind them the candles lining the stairway illuminated automatically. It must be how muggles used electricity. Something he just found to be irritating. He would never understand them and their contraptions. Following behind her silently, the corridor grew colder as they ascended. Until finally they finished at the top of the stairs and a small wooden door waited to be opened, Gavin reached in front of her and pushed it open. Two small house elves were placing the final candles on the table, three large orange sticks rested in a candelabra with fake webbing and dust that had obviously just been lit before they scurried to their respective sides of the turret. The stars in the night sky were just starting to show against the setting sun backdrop, only they had been changed to reflect haunted images. Jack O Lanterns and skulls, cats with arched backs and stereotypical witches on brooms. It was just a silly trick, but Galaxia had been doing it since he could remember. The table was set with two plates of a simple summer salad to start, the black tablecloth fell in a pool to the floor and soft, slower versions of the folk songs that he seemed to associate with her played almost inaudible in the background, like the sounds were coming out of the walls themselves. It was a still chill in the air, but he didn't find it to be uncomfortable as he slid his quiver of arrows from his back and placed it next to the door with his bow. Lowering the hood from his head he moved toward the table. It was just something small, nothing on a grand scale that could have been provided by a restaurant, but he hoped it would suffice. The damn Aurors were being so difficult with letting people bring things back from the village on weekends now. Standing in the middle of the table were two small bottles, one labeled 'Toxin' that contained pumpkin juice, and one labeled 'Elixer' with fire whiskey, at least he had been able to manage that.

He had never been on a 'date' with anybody other than the woman that he was attempting to avoid, so this was relatively new territory for him. Usually the women came to him so he didn't have to try very hard. At best he would take them out and pay for their drinks. He wasn't used to wining and dining women because honestly, he never had to try that hard. He certainly hadn't had to with Sura before. Oh, she had put up a good fight but her turn of phrase and snarky comments whenever they bickered tended to give her away. Well, at least the version of her that Gavin had tangled with in the previous years. They were both of age soon, he might as well attempt to start acting like an adult, she would be the first woman he had ever respected on an occasion like this, that had to count for something. Pushing the stray thoughts of Amina away, he pulled out the chair for her to sit on the side of the table that would allow her to overlook the grounds. “Hopefully you will like the food” he motioned to the alcohol on the table, if not, you are welcome to drink dinner he finished with a smile.

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have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

[/b][/font] 1,623
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
song:When the Clouds - Rise On
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0[/ul][/font][/font][/div]

[Sura Haughton]

The dawn is breaking, a light shining through.
even the best fall down sometimes.

The number of glances Gavin was throwing her, whether he knew she could see it or not, was a little bit surprising to her. She doubted that he was having any sort of second thoughts about their date at this point; Sura was well aware that if he decided he wasn't interested in taking her anymore, he was fully capable of thinking up an excuse to slip away into the night. So regret or second thoughts wasn't it. She wondered vaguely if she really did look that attractive tonight. Sura had never been lacking in volume when it came to the attention of men. From the day she'd grown her curves and more lady-like features, she had been pursued. She had learned how to accent her best features with a particular cut of clothing, how to tie and pin her hair to best frame her face, how to make her eyes light up with the right application of make up. Truthfully, it was only when the lights dimmed and her clothes came off with someone new that she felt unsure of herself. But often, as soon as the feeling showed up, it disappeared, lost in the moment she was in. They did say that confidence was sexy, didn't they? And Merlin, she felt like she could practically burst with the confidence she was feeling tonight. Maybe she did look that good after all. Gavin seemed to think so, judging by those sideways glances. Yes, she was quite sure she looked that good. A vain thought? Almost certainly, but did that really make it wrong? Every girl deserved to be vain once in a while.

Gavin's laughter rang in her ears. It was a playful sound, and really quite attractive. “Don't patronize me Sura, I will have my vengeance on that corset for igniting my jealousy." His tone was light, but clearly held something a little more...base underneath it. "Vengeance?" she said softly, her eyebrows raised as her lips curved into a wicked smirk. Sura looked up at Gavin, eyes dancing with mischief, "That sounds like you have developed quite the vendetta, Mister Dewhurst. I dare say the corset doesn't stand a chance if you're hunting for revenge." Clearly, this part of their conversation was dancing on the line between risqué and innocent. Though, with their history, she wasn't particularly shocked. There was nothing wrong with some playful banter with a former playmate.

His hand steered her firmly to another set of stairs, and she was suddenly thankful that her Common Room was where it was; lots of stairs didn't phase her. Sure, it took longer for Ravenclaws to get places in comparison to other students when they left from their Common Room, but her leg endurance was fantastic. As they walked, she began to ignore the stares and whispers pointed in their direction; it would be a waste of her time and energy to let them get under her skin. Besides, she was on a date with Gavin, not any of them; he deserved her attention, not any of their gawkers. Sura pulled her shoulders back a touch, holding herself a little higher. She glanced up at Gavin, who had not made any comment when she had mentioned her acceptance of his invitation. His eyes were fixed forward, but there was a small smile fixed on his lips. Not for the first time, it struck her just how handsome Gavin was; he was all mischievous eyes and heart-breaker smile. Not to mention the fact that he was in incredible shape. It was no wonder why he had his little fan club panting after him at all hours of the day. The corners of her own lips turned up as she turned back to look around the hallway.

“I would agree with you, it was the only smart choice after all," he said in agreement, somewhat cut off by the choked sob that issued from a rather petite girl no more than a few feet away from them. Sura's eyes widened a touch, her lips pressing together. “Though some might disagree." She did not turn to look a him, but she could hear the smile in his voice. Judging by the number of stares and sneers they had received up until this point, Gavin was completely right. Sura suddenly knew she had not made a mistake in keeping who she was attending the ball with mum over the last month; more than one of these girls would have been more than happy to have hexed her hair off, or worse. She frowned slightly, not particularly fond of the venom she was receiving, although she refused to take it to heart. She had already decided that it was not worth her time, determined to ignore it. Just as soon as the frown had found her, it disappeared as Gavin pulled her in closer to his side. It was a small gesture, but it did make her feel better.

A grin spread over Sura's lips along, accompanied by a short, sharp exhale. "Obviously," she echoed, turning onto yet another staircase with Gavin. She did a quick mental review of their steps, realizing that they were heading towards the Towers. Curiosity burned in her chest as they approached a closed door. They were headed up the tower, that was all that was certain. Their final destination was not far off now, it couldn't be. “The anticipation is half of the fun," he chided, clucking his tongue at her. "Oh, I don't know," she purred, turning her eyes up to catch his. "Maybe not half... Although the anticipation is captivating, surely." Her lips curved into a smirk, though she kept as much innocence in her eyes as she could muster. Her gaze followed Gavin's hand to the lever as he pressed down on it and pushed the door open. “Top of the stairs...” The combination of his warm breath against her ear and neck with his soft voice could have made her purr. Her breath caught in her throat, and suddenly it was difficult to find herself in the haze that had formed in her brain.

As she began her ascent, Gavin following close behind, goosebumps spread across her skin. It was cooler than she had expected it to be, but then again most places would be cool when you were wearing little more than feathers and leggings. Perhaps the room they ended up in would be a tolerable temperature. She hated to make a fuss over a shiver or two. Gavin's hand snaked between her body and the dorm turning the handle to grant them access. Her lips parted slightly as they stepped into the room, exhaling slowly. It was actually quite beautiful, a simple elegance that held with the theme of the night. She could swear that she could hear familiar music playing from somewhere, but it was so soft that she couldn't be entirely certain. Candles cast a warm glow over the room, their light mingling with that of the fading sun. Obviously, Gavin had gone to much effort to get this set up, and she really couldn't have been more pleased with it. "Gavin," she breathed, her soft voice laden with her accent in her wonder. "This is, just, wow." She looked out of the window onto the grounds, where the enchanted stars were just starting to peek through the sunset. Suddenly her words failed her, and all she could do was smile. Frankly, no one had ever gone to this much effort to take her to dinner.

She moved toward the table, smoothing the back of her costume down as she sat down. She didn't expect anything less of Gavin, but he really was quite the gentleman. Sura slid closer to the table, glancing up at Gavin as he walked around the table to take his seat. A image of a younger Gavin came to mind, eleven years old, just starting school. Their families were familiar, though Sura and Gavin had never been close friends. It suddenly dawned on her that they had really grown up. Realistically, they were verging adulthood. They were maturing; the fact that this was the longest they'd ever been around one another at school without trying to tear one another's clothing off was a testament to that. In the past, she honestly hadn't put up much of a fight when it came to Gavin: he had something she wanted, and she had something he wanted. But now, she could honestly say that she was interested in actually getting to know Gavin. Maybe they could find themselves as friends, not just the kind that only got together to get naked.

“Hopefully you will like the food," he said. She followed his gesture to the labelled bottles sitting in front of her. Sura reached out to pick them up, pinning them between her fingers in one hand. She opened the first, recognizing it as innocent pumpkin juice. As she opened the second, she licked her lips before a small, knowing smile crossed them. The contents of this bottle were less innocent: Firewhiskey. It felt like there was plenty in the bottle, enough to send them stumbling through the night if they so chose, but she doubted either of them desired to get into any serious trouble tonight. She placed the Elixer bottle back in front of her, near the centre of the table, her smile still on her lips. "I'm sure I will enjoy whatever you've arranged for us, Gavin," she said softly, pouring some of the pumpkin juice into her glass. "I should probably have something to eat before have any part in the Elixer, though. I fear that, in my current state, it is likely to be more potent than usual." She pulled the napkin from under her cutlery, unfolding it and setting it across her lap, smoothing it. Sura looked up at Gavin from beneath her lashes, a smile paying on her lips as she waited for him to be ready to eat.

When he seemed to be ready, she reached for her glass, holding it up slightly. "A toast before we eat?" she purred, cocking her head to the side. "To our last Halloween as students. May it be an absolutely unforgettable evening." The fact that they were attending together would already make the night particularly notable, but she was sure that there would be many other reasons that the night would be one that would stick in her mind. The Halloween Ball was notorious for being quite the occasion, full of pranks and drama and fun. There was absolutely no way that this night could be dull. Sura reached slightly to meet Gavin's glass with her own before taking a sip. She placed her glass back on the table and reached for her salad fork, as if it were muscle memory to pick out the right fork from the bunch. Sura brought a small mouthful of salad to her lips, and a small hum of satisfaction rose in her throat as she chewed: it was absolutely delicious.

After a few more bites, she took a sip of her pumpkin juice before she spoke. "So Robin Hood then, Gavin?" she said in reference to his costume. A coy smile landed on her lips as she picked up her fork. "I noticed that you opted for pants instead of the classic tights. I can't say that I'm not a little disappointed, although I suppose that it was the smart decision: no doubt you would have at least half of Galaxia's female population in swooning fits if you'd chosen the tights," she teased, her voice light as she placed another delicate bite between her lips. "And I couldn't help but notice your quiver of arrows. How did you manage to make a dozen arrows fall in line with the rules, sir?" Her smile stayed on her face as she chewed, waiting for his response.

I'm quiet you know; you make a first impression.
i somehow find you and i collide.

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for: gavin
clothing: see halloween thread
music: collide - howie day
words: 2020
notes: epic muse makes monster posts. also, take your pick for food: she'll eat just about anything except olives.

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
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[/i] his grin was irritating his cheeks, he didn't smile this much often anymore. Averting his gaze to the scene in front of him he exhaled in a low whistle. “It is what it is, though, admittedly, not many things do stand in my way once I want vengeance” he teased, his eyes shifting back to her and that corset. “You should know by now I mean what I say” clearly, his mind was flooding with second meanings to his words tonight. She wasn't the type of girl to dress in such tight clothing and then pretend to be innocent whenever a man looked at her with less than honorable intentions on his mind. Another thing that he couldn't stand, silly games that women tended to play whenever they thought they were being attractive. He far preferred the attitude of assurance that Sura exuded.

”Gavin,” He didn't think that he was ever going to really be used to how she breathed his name, her accent enveloped the letters just wonderfully. It was only made better whenever she purred in just that singular way she did. “This is, just, wow.” Something about her tone made him think that she really did mean it, that she was pleased and not just pretending so that he might like her better. Again the thought that he had chosen the right platonic partner for this dance crossed his mind. As she sat, he moved across the table to sit opposite her, his hands remained in his lap until she made the first move. Just like his breeding and years of boarding school had instilled into him. He didn't even have to think about it anymore, it was second nature to him. He never could understand how some of the students that were raised with the same privileges that he had could conduct themselves in such an uncouth manor. Perhaps they thought it made them more appealing somehow, but he wasn't, and couldn't pretend to be a barbarian. His eyes followed her motions silently as she tested the bottles on front of them, waiting to see which one she picked. Granted, their last encounter of note had been fueled by alcohol, he wouldn't have been surprised if that was what she had chosen. The image of her in that animal print dress crossed his mind. She sure did have a thing for the pallor of more wild animals, but it was fitting to her, he felt. ”I'm sure I will enjoy whatever you've arranged for us, Gavin, I should probably have something to eat before have any part in the Elixer, though. I fear that, in my current state, it is likely to be more potent than usual.” He chuckled and nodded, reaching forth to pour them both gobletfuls of the pumpkin juice. Once she had grabbed her cutlery, he did the same, holding it close to the edge of the table. “You will have to stop looking at me like that, if you expect me to make it to the second course” he teased, knowing full well the implications of his words. It wasn't that he couldn't actually control himself, but he did appreciate the attention.

”A toast before we eat?” He set his fork down on the edge of his plate and lifted his glass to meet hers. ”To our last Halloween as students. May it be an absolutely unforgettable evening.” He smiled and nodded “Agreed, and to fiery Irish lasses and their accents” tapping the side of his glass against hers, the enchanted skeletal face on the side of his glass cursing him for cruelty as he did so. He could only hope that it would be a memorable night in the positive way, there were far too many things already betting against him and having a successful evening. Not to mention, the dread sitting at the back of his mind at all times that Amina might show up with another man. Even worse, a man that she might have actual feelings for. Taking a long drink from his glass he set it back onto the table gently, turning the now angry skeletal face on the side away from him. One would think a glass like him would have been expecting a little toasting. Taking a bite of the salad before him he nodded, mostly to himself on a job well done. Perhaps he had been too focused on eating well that he had drifted into tasteless foods for far too long. It was almost like his palate had been starved for flavor until now. ”So Robin Hood then, Gavin?” he nodded again, mentally cursing Kariana for choosing this one. Honestly, so long as it wasn't shameful he didn't mind it so much. ”I noticed that you opted for pants instead of the classic tights. I can't say that I'm not a little disappointed, although I suppose that it was the smart decision: no doubt you would have at least half of Galaxia's female population in swooning fits if you'd chosen the tights,” Such a flatterer. Covering his mouth with his napkin he smiled he nodded once more. “No tights were pretty much my requirement for a costume this year. Robin Hood seemed the most fitting.” placing the cloth back on his thighs he turned his gaze to her. “Figured it was best for everybody this way, I hear those swooning fits can be lethal”

”And I couldn't help but notice your quiver of arrows. How did you manage to make a dozen arrows fall in line with the rules, sir?” taking a drink from his glass he turned to the arrows, “Well, that's actually a clever bit of charm work if I do say so myself” snapping his fingers, one of the house elves brought them closer and he extracted one and handed it over in her direction. “If anybody but me touches them, the spell won't work. So...when the professors examine them...” his voice trailed off, knowing full well that a prefect shouldn't be thinking along those lines but he couldn't help himself. These balls could be dreadfully dull if there was no alternative to dancing. Taking the arrow back, it started to drip a golden shimmer from the dulled point. “And yet” he stated, holding the arrow above the little house elves head. Turning him to face the other house elf, he shook the arrow until some of the enchanted dust fell onto the unsuspecting elf, causing it to rush toward the other with hearts in it's eyes. Cruel? Perhaps. Funny? Certainly. It was only a taste, it would wear off in only a few moments.

[/blockquote][/div][/font][/ul][/font]

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have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

[/b][/font] 1,333
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
song:When the Clouds - Rise On
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0[/ul][/font][/font][/div]

[Sura Haughton]

The dawn is breaking, a light shining through.
even the best fall down sometimes.

Sura liked the way that Gavin laughed. There was just something that was so warm and pleasant about it. It wasn't forced or false in the least bit; it was completely genuine, or so he at least made it seem. Gavin had never really come across as the type that would pay mind or attention to those that he deemed unworthy of his time, so to actually see him smile and hear him laugh was quite the compliment. Even more than that, Sura realized that this was one of the first times that she'd actually seen Gavin smile or laugh all semester. That in itself was peculiar; he'd even been lacking his trademark smirk. But here he was, in all the Gavin-like glory that she knew him for. There was a brightness in him she hadn't seen in a while. It was nice. Her eyes dropped from his smile to his hands as he reached to pour drinks. She remained silent as he poured, only her smile on her lips. As she perched her fork in her hand, Gavin spoke, and her breath hitched yet again.

“You will have to stop looking at me like that, if you expect me to make it to the second course." Sura exhaled through her nose, raising her eyes to meet his. She bit the corner of her bottom lip as she smirked, raising one of her eyebrows at him. Those words would normally have passed between them completely innocently (regardless of the double-meaning), but as their time together went on, that familiar tension had been building, those glowing embers fanned by every look, touch, and hushed word. Those words seemed to hold the note of a promise of sorts, and Sura couldn't say that she wasn't interested. "I would apologize, Gavin," she said, breathing his name in the way she knew drove him just a little wild. "But I'd be lying if I said I was sorry for looking at you like that. And a lady mustn't tell lies." A wicked grin passed over her features as she cocked an eyebrow once more, rolling her fork between her fingers. She would behave herself as long as Gavin did, no more than words passing between them for now. Sura had a feeling that they'd never make it to the Ball if anything happened at this point.

Her corners of her eyes crinkled up when she smiled as Gavin toasted her, the classic Irish blush rising quickly to her cheeks. She didn't care about the blush at this point; it had been a damn nice compliment. "And to gorgeous Hertfordshire lads and their flattery," she nodded, touching her glass to Gavin's before taking a sip. She noticed the skulls on the sides of each of their glasses taking on a deep frown upon being toasted with, and it was all Sura could do to not snort at them. You would think that, being a glass, they'd be prepared to be toasted with; you'd think it would be in the job description. She took one more sip, enjoying the cool, sweet liquid before placing her glass on the table. Sura grinned as Gavin mentioned his preference for pants in his costume, her brows knitting together in mock concern as she nodded feverently. "Oh absolutely. We'd wipe out most of the females at Galaxia if that happened, and that'd just be unfortunate. You really are quite noble, choosing the pants over the tights, Gavin." Her seriousness cracked as she choked down the urge to mention that the pants were probably easier to get out of. That kind of talk was not for the dinner table.

Sura accepted the arrow gingerly, rolling it between her fingers as she examined it. It looked pretty, well, normal. Nothing that would make it extraordinary in any way, which was exactly why she was so curious and suspicious. It seemed too plain for Gavin. She handed it back to him, her eyes narrowing with mischief as she saw the sudden appearance of a gold...well, she wasn't exactly sure what to call what she was seeing. Sura pressed the fingers of one hand to her lips as she watched the little house elf rush to the other one, positively enamoured. "Gavin," she breathed, glancing over at him half surprised, half humoured. Her hand dropped to her lap and her lips parted, searching for the right words. She pressed them shut, turning to gaze at him from across the table. He wouldn't have made it malicious in any way. It was obviously just for a bit of fun. No one had to tell. Sura smirked, licking her lips as she shook her head. "You are bad," she purred. "But I'm looking forward to it." Multiple meanings? You bet. All of them true? Absolutely. This was going to be a very, very interesting evening.

I'm quiet you know; you make a first impression.
i somehow find you and i collide.

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for: gavin
clothing: see halloween thread
music: collide - howie day
words: 826
notes: i'm sorry this one is so short! my brain is a little muddled tonight. forgives?

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

</i> to have feelings for them, was just going to wind up rejecting them as soon as they received the anti-tonic. They just had to learn the hard way. Of course, the beauty of his little trick, was that once fired, the arrows would burst into the gold powder and nobody would even have to know who it was that had struck them. Even if they did, he couldn't bring himself to care. He wasn't normally much of one for common place pranks, but since he really didn't want to be going to the ball in the first place, he didn't mind having a good reason to be kicked out early. He could always find other ways to distract Sura if it came down to it.

“Gavin,You are bad,” A grin slowly spread across his face, coming from her that was funny. Her and that purr. “I do alright, sometimes” he teased, turning his focus to the table setting. Pushing his salad plate half an inch in front of him, the house elf that wasn't occupied with the third one started to clear the dishes off of the table, and brought about the main course. It was still simple, a seasonal dish. Glazed chicken stuffed with walnuts, apples and brie cheese. Something that he had always loved this time of year, but nobody within his house was actually able to make it, at least not well enough to do the dish any semblance of justice. ”But I'm looking forward to it.” His eyes snapped upward, suddenly finding that he could care less about the damned food. At this rate, with their conversation starting to turn as heavy as it was, they weren't going to make it to dessert, let alone downstairs to the ball itself. Which, was both appealing and not. On the one hand, the shock factor of showing up with a Ravenclaw was something that he had been looking forward to, but on the other hand, all of the benefits of not having to go at all...well...that made it worth it. He could feel the side of his lips curling upward, the gentleman upbringing inside of him attempting to keep his composure for as long as possible. Though, the distraction was just what he needed. Who would have known that he would have so far surpassed his expectations by choosing Sura as his date. It had started as nothing more than a platonic distraction, and now? Well, the night would tell.

As the potion dust started to wear off of the house elves, they had taken to looking at each other with disgust, and then turning to look at Gavin with the most vile hate he had seen in a long while. He couldn't help but to laugh. He knew that all of the Galaxia house elves were in fact, free by definition, but they were still subservient. There was nothing that they could do to him and no doubt it was infuriating them. What was the worst that could happen? They wouldn't double press his sheets before making his bed? He had dealt with worse things in life. Chuckling he winked at one, no idea if they were of opposite genders or had just been engaging in something that they might find morally humiliating or not. He didn't pay much attempting to house elves or their anatomy, he just didn't care enough. Their giant ears wobbled as they huffed, not even attempting to leave to find some other duty they could preform, but just standing there staring at the couple eating at the table. “In the spirit of being bad” He pulled the top off of the firewhiskey and mixed some into his own pumpkin juice, before sliding the bottle over in her direction, just in case. “To make the dance a little more interesting, I think” he lifted the cup and tipped it at her before taking a larger than necessary drink. “Assuming of course, that we actually make it”

</blockquote></div></font></ul></font>

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

</b></font> 940
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
song:When the Clouds - Rise On
notes:I apologize for the delay and the shortness, I hope you have enough to work with. if not, just let me know.
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0</ul></font></font></div>

[Sura Haughton]

The dawn is breaking, a light shining through.
even the best fall down sometimes.

Sura shook her head, grinning at Gavin, knowing full-well that her purr had once been able to drive him absolutely wild. Judging by his responses so far this evening, she hadn’t quite lost her touch yet. He had not lost his touch with her yet, either, considering that several of his words and actions had already lead to temporary loss of breath this evening. That was certainly reminiscent of some of their past, although they had been words and actions that had a purpose that they had both been absolutely certain of. This evening was a little more uncertain, although it had certainly already been littered with innuendos and suggestive whispers. It was enough to keep Sura absolutely enthralled by the man before her.

She took a last bite of her salad before the elves cleared it from the table, savouring it. She didn’t miss it at all, though, once the main course made its way onto the table. Sura wasn’t completely sure what was in it, but it looked quite seasonal and smelled incredible. She sunk her fork into the meat, and carved off a piece before popping it into her mouth. It was absolutely sensational. ”Gavin, you know how to wine and dine a lady,” she sighed, dabbing the corner of her mouth with her napkin. If this dinner was any indication, dessert would likely be the very best thing she had eaten in a long time. The house elves always provided some spectacular fare for meals, but they had really, truly outdone themselves this time. She picked up her knife and fork to continue her meal, glancing up at the man across from her occasionally. Sura began to wonder exactly what this night was going to hold for her, although she was absolutely positive that it was going to be very, very interesting.

The look on his face when his eyes snapped up to meet hers was borderline priceless. She smiled innocently at him, gazing up from beneath her lashes. He knew that she was far from innocent, especially when it came to him, but it was always amusing to pretend. The way he looked at her made her blood run a little hotter and goosebumps to ripple across her body. It had been a long time since their last tryst, but that didn’t mean that she couldn’t recall all of the little details, the way he could make toes curl, the way he knew exactly what to say to make her heart pound and her breath stop. For a moment, she toyed with the idea of not showing up to the Ball at all tonight. She couldn’t imagine that she would regret it in the least, and she doubted that Gavin would completely protest the idea. Sura licked her lips before looking down to continue her dinner when Gavin’s shocked face changed, the corners of his lips turning up. At least she wasn’t the only one considering the idea.

Sura smiled over at the elves, who were now coming out of their romantic stupor as she and Gavin ate. She straightened up as Gavin began to speak, a wicked smile crossing onto her lips. Sura picked up the bottle as he slid it over to her, tipping some of the contents into her own glass. She lifted it to her mouth, taking a long drink herself, barely managing to avoid choking on her drink when Gavin chimed in, Assuming of course, that we actually make it.” She exhaled as she shook her head, licking her lips. The firewhiskey warmed her straight to her toes, though it could also have been the way that Gavin was looking at her right about now. The boy could certainly make her nearly purr when he wanted to. Sura looked back up at him from beneath her lashes again, a smirk playing on the corner of her lips. ”Assuming that we actually make it,” she echoed, raising her eyebrow mischievously.

”So tell me, Gavin,” she purred, once again. She seemed to be doing a lot of that tonight. ”What else do you have planned for us for this evening?” Well that was a positively loaded question, wasn’t it?

I'm quiet you know; you make a first impression.
i somehow find you and i collide.

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for: gavin
clothing: see halloween thread
music: collide - howie day
words: 706
notes: sorry it's a little short. i hope you can still work with it!

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
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[/i] Pleased with her words in reflection to the food he took a bite himself, also pleased with the flavors. “Now, keep those comments between us. That's not the sort of thing I want getting around” he grinned, knowing full well that she wasn't going to say anything. Perhaps that was only adding to her appeal. Very few people in his life were able to keep their mouths shut for longer than a day about anything that might possibly get some attention in the rumor mill. While his date with her was enough to start talk, about the both of them, he knew that she wasn't going to spill every last sordid detail just to garner more attention to herself. At least, if he knew her as well as he thought that he was starting to, she wouldn't.

”Assuming that we actually make it,” Merlin, was it just him or did it seem to be getting hotter on this balcony by the second? He was slightly regretting the layers of his costume for the time being. It had been so cold whenever they had arrived, and he was starting to think that his internal temperature was less effected by the weather, or even the firewhiskey that he had just sampled, and everything to do with the woman sitting across from him. ”So tell me, Gavin, What else do you have planned for us for this evening?” Things that weren't socially acceptable to voice in front of a lady, that much was certain. Though, she knew that was what he was thinking, otherwise she wouldn't have baited him such. She was a devilish woman. Damn her Irish ways. He hadn't even thought about Amina since before he had picked Sura up, he had wanted a diversion, and he had gotten on, in abundance. If somebody had told him a year ago, that he would have willingly spent an evening locked in a tower, with his clothing on, with a Ravenclaw, he would have laughed in that persons face directly. At least he wasn't having to drink alone anymore, and it had taken hardly any coaxing on his part at all, which, he thought, meant only good things were to come. Another smile passed across his face as he helped himself to another shot's worth of the whiskey, grimacing as it hit the back of his throat, but not caring much about the burn.

The house elves brought out the final course of the night, simple slices of pumpkin cheesecake, another seasonal favorite. He had just figured that since this was a first for them, he might as well stick to things that would represent the time of the year their date had occurred, couldn't go wrong, or so he hoped at the very least. “I've still got a few surprises up my sleeve” he lead ominously, he wasn't about to start spilling his secrets now that they were just getting on with their evening. “Though – I suppose, if you have a suggestion I might be willing to take it into consideration?” Like, skipping the dance for instance and heading back to his dorm. There it went again, his not so reputable side of his personality getting the better of him.

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- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

[/b][/font] 676
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
notes:Sorry this took so long, I couldn't seem to make this post work for anything. Apologies.
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0[/ul][/font][/font][/div]

[Sura Haughton]

The dawn is breaking, a light shining through.
even the best fall down sometimes.

There was something so very refreshing about eating dinner with Gavin. Perhaps it was because it was something that she wasn’t used to doing with him. Perhaps it was because no one had really ever put in so much effort to take her on a...date? She supposed that’s what you could call this. It was the description closest to it, anyway. Not only the fact that he’d apparently put in a significant amount of effort, but he was treating her like an absolute princess. The food was perfect, he was holding doors and chairs for her... It all felt so very thoughtful. Sura liked it, and had no problem letting him know that.

“Now, keep those comments between us. That's not the sort of thing I want getting around.” Sura smiled, bringing her napkin to her mouth to dab it clean. As she put it down, she drew two fingers across her lips, the corners still turned up in a conspiratory smile. ”My lips are sealed. No one will find out what an excellent date you are,” she said with a small peal of laughter. She had never been the kind of girl to go around blabbing about her dates as it was. There was no class in kissing and telling, and she’d been raised far better than that. Not only that, but Gavin knew that about her. She wondered if that was one of the reasons he’d ever taken such a prolonged interest in her was that she knew how to keep her mouth shut. So many girls at the school had more a of a loose-lipped approach to life, and Sura found no appeal in it. There were some things that belonged to you and whoever else was involved. Dates and sex both happened to fall on that list for Sura.

If it hadn’t been for the fact that she was prepared for it, she probably would have burst out laughing at Gavin’s face when she made one of her more suggestive remarks. It wasn’t that he gawked at the remark; on the contrary, he held himself very well after the words had left her lips. It was in the subtle things that he did, a twitch in his face, those little things she’d noticed about him when she’d been getting to know him, those were his tells. And that was how she knew that she’d struck a particular chord.

How absolutely delicious.

She returned his smile as she sipped her drink. Her eyes didn’t leave his face as she felt her temperature being to rise. It could have been the alcohol, it could have been the fact that Gavin was sitting only a few feet away from her and looking absolutely edible. Either way, the heat extended out to the farthest parts of her.

In their silence, the last course was presented. Sura delicately placed a bite in her mouth, savouring the flavour. It had always been one of her favourite desserts, and Gavin had not disappointed in the last course. She raised her eyebrows as Gavin mentioned other surprises. ”I’m intrigued, Gavin,” she purred, finishing the last bite of her food. “Though – I suppose, if you have a suggestion I might be willing to take it into consideration?” Sura let a smile spread over her lips as her eyes flashed mischievously. She was sure she knew exactly what he was suggesting, and she couldn’t say that she was entirely opposed. ”I think I can think of a few things,” she breathed, her eyes dropping over his torso for a lingering moment before returning to his face. ”But I think I’d like a few more of my surprises before I bring any of my ideas up.” She certainly had wanted and meant to make an appearance at the Ball tonight, but she was beginning to feel less and less convicted about that. There were plenty of other places they could find to amuse themselves.

I'm quiet you know; you make a first impression.
i somehow find you and i collide.

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for: gavin
clothing: see halloween thread
music: wanted - tyler ward cover
words: 685
notes: n/a

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
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[/b] His eyes rolled slowly upward at her comment. They were just going to keep dancing around the subject then. All he could think about was sliding his hand under the table to her nearly naked leg, her soft skin was just out of touch...he just needed to move his chair over a foot or so. A small flush of color moved up the sides of his neck to his ears. Gavin was not a timid man, generally, if he wanted something, then he would get it. Sura was doing such a perfect job of getting him out of his own head, to keep him from thinking about the things that were coming up in his life, the dread that waited for him just over the horizon. It was marvelous that she could manage to keep him in the moment, present at this very table with her. ”But I think I’d like a few more of my surprises before I bring any of my ideas up.” Tease. Shaking his head with a small tsk'ing noise he grinned wolfishly. Pushing his plate away from his body he signaled with his hand for the house elves to come and take his plate to where ever they liked, so long as it wasn't still at this table. Taking a final, long drink of the whiskey he had put into his pumpkin juice he scooted his chair back, hoping that the space between him would calm his ravenous mind for just a little while.

Whenever he felt like the time was right, he rose to his feet, holding out his arm for Sura. He could have kept her out on this balcony all night long, and well into the morning. Of course, the early morning astrology class that liked to use this balcony for lessons might not take too kindly to walking in on whatever state the couple happened to find themselves in. It certainly would have made for an interesting story after the fact. “Madam, If I don't get you down to that ball soon, I don't know if my self control will last long enough for the surprises.” hoisting his enchanted bow and arrow back onto his person he waited for her company. “That, and I really would like to aim a few of these at a few choice members of the student body.” As she joined him, his hand raised to rest between her shoulder blades, his knuckle brushing lightly over the exposed skin there, inhaling deeply and holding his breath within his chest until he composed himself and exhaled. Removing his hand, he allowed it to fall to his side and pulled open the balcony door with his other hand, waiting for her to lead them out and down the stairs once more. By now they should have been fashionably late, and the music would no doubt be filling the castle. He could practically anticipate the amount of conversation and bad dancing that would await them in the great hall.

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have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

[/b][/font] 811
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
notes:Hope it's alright that I'm moving them down to the dance. Welcome back.
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0[/ul][/font][/font][/div]

[Sura Haughton]

The dawn is breaking, a light shining through.
even the best fall down sometimes.

Sura liked watching the reactions of the boys she courted. She liked to see the effect her words and actions had on them; generally speaking, she knew exactly what was coming out of her mouth, and there was a reaction that she imagined she might get from those words. It was always satisfying to see that the message was received the way she intended it to be. Even more so if they had some way to reply. With Gavin, it was certainly more enjoyable to have these exchanges, mostly because he was just as feisty as she was, and he knew how to push her buttons just as well as she knew how to push his. Another reason Sura liked the man sitting across from her so very much. Not to mention that he knew how to wine and dine a girl.

She placed the last bite of her dessert on her tongue before placing her fork on her plate. She looked across at him beneath her thick lashes, chewing in silence as her lips turned up into the smallest of smiles. He obviously knew exactly what she was up to, that she was trying to push his buttons. Sura couldn't help but let her lips twist up into a large smile as Gavin shook his head at her, clucking his tongue in mock disapproval. His smile was enough to send a rush of heat through her body. The boy had more than a few surprises lined up for her for the remainder of the evening, and she didn't imagine all of them involved the large number of feathers she was currently wearing. Frankly, some of her plans didn't involve his tights. There was practically no way that they weren't going to enjoy their entire evening, judging by the way things had panned out this far.

Following suit and downing the remainder of her spiked drink, she gave a little shiver as the alcohol warmed her from her core. If anything, the alcohol was just going to make it more difficult for them to keep their hands off of each other, this much Sura knew. They'd never needed alcohol before to want to claw the other party's clothing off, and whiskey could only mean that the whole thing was going to be more frenzied, if anything. She didn't mind that one bit. She tilted her chin up as Gavin approached, nudging her chair back so she could stand. Sura licked her lips and cocked her head to the side as Gavin spoke, a devious look crawling over her features. “Madam, If I don't get you down to that ball soon, I don't know if my self control will last long enough for the surprises.” Well that was enticing. "My own self control is starting to wear thin, I fear." She paused, smoothing her feathers down. "But I would like a few more of my surprises, I think. And I have a few targets in mind, for you, too." The feel of his hand on her back, just that slightest bit of contact, sent a shock of electricity down her spine, and she had to let out her breath in a slow, steady exhale to maintain herself. It would be a wonder if they lasted more than an hour or two at the dance. Sura led the pair of them down the stairs, towards the dance. There were appearances to keep up, surprises to be had, victims to prank, and of course there was anticipation to be built.

The Great Hall was grand, as it always was during a Ball. The room was dimly lit, not so much that one's eyes couldn't easily adjust, but enough that mischief could be had, if someone so desired. And Sura and Gavin were up to nothing this evening, if not mischief. "Oooh, there, there!" Sura giggled, hand squeezing Gavin's leg lightly. "The one dressed as a lion and the one dressed as one of the Weird Sisters." This had turned out to be a past time far more amusing than Sura had expected. They'd arrived about a quarter of an hour into the Ball, just enough time so that the room had filled up and their entrance had not gone unnoticed, the latter being an unexpected bonus: the looks she'd received from several girls had been positively priceless. After a drink and chatting with some friends, they'd settled in for their little magical bout of mischief, exactly where they'd been for the past hour. She was having an genuinely amazing time with Gavin, and she very much liked how well they were getting along. She liked being his friend, being able to talk to him, get into mischief with him...

Between the excitement from their bout of matchmaking and the alcohol that was still running through her veins, she could hardly contain the squeak that escaped her lips when the band began to play their next song. It was a little slower, more mellow. But she liked it, and she would be damned if she couldn't get Gavin up to dance with her. "Come on, you're dancing with me for this one. You essentially have no other option, because I want to dance and neither of us want you to get mobbed by the gaggle of girls waiting in the wings for me to go to the bathroom." Sura grinned at him, lacing her fingers through his and pulling him up, towards a space on the dance floor. "Pretty please?"

I'm quiet you know; you make a first impression.
i somehow find you and i collide.

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for: gavin
clothing: see halloween thread
music: e.t. - katy perry (tyler ward cover)
words: 916

[Gavin Dewhurst]

i've never been so bitter,
(AND YOU? WHY DO YOU WANT ME TO STAY)
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[/i] Grinning at the suggestion he held out an arm to give her the lead down the turret of the tower. A distraction would be good for him he felt, and aiming at targets, keeping his eyes from roaming over the spaces between the feathers she was wearing could only do him good. Whenever he felt like she wasn't looking, he adjusted the uncomfortable tights on the way down the stairs.

The music hit him well before he reached the great hall. People were everywhere, he often forgot just how very many students actually resided in this castle. It was impossible to ignore whenever they were all in a bulk like this. Milling in the entrance way, socializing. The chatter paused from those directly around them as Gavin and Sura made their presence known and it registered just who they were. Just what he had been looking forward to. It was why he was even at this blasted event in the first time. He needed to set his reputation straight once more. The way that the woman on his arm looked, there was no chance of it backfiring it now. Heading into the dimly lit great hall, his eyes instantly did a small search for the woman he was attempting to avoid. He didn't know why, but he couldn't help it. Thankfully, he didn't see her, or anybody else that he knew in his direct eye line. The pair settled into their game easily enough, dwindling Gavin's arrow supply easily. He almost wished that he had brought a few more with him to keep the entertainment going. Whenever his arrow would hit, and the two would run toward each other had been amusing. Even more so whenever the chaperones had started to get wind that something was going on that shouldn't be. At least it added an edge, forcing his aim to be spot on. The pulse of a hand on his leg brought his attention back to the present, and he turned instinctively to the woman who was breathing excitedly. "Oooh, there, there! The one dressed as a lion and the one dressed as one of the Weird Sisters." His eyes followed her gaze, and a wicked smirk fit across his lips whenever he found who she was talking about. A lion. He could have scoffed. What an unoriginal costume, but a fitting next target. “Anything for the lady.” Lining up his shot, as clear as he could under the effects of the whiskey he took fine.

Damn. Last arrow. He would have to save it for something really special. Turning to Sura to see who she had in mind, her demeanor changed at the same time as the song. "Come on, you're dancing with me for this one. You essentially have no other option, because I want to dance and neither of us want you to get mobbed by the gaggle of girls waiting in the wings for me to go to the bathroom." it was true, he really did owe her didn't he? The last time they had been in a situation to dance, he had left her. That, and he didn't want her to leave him for another man. It seemed that she really wasn't going to take no for an answer. Pulling the bow over his chest as his feet shuffled in line behind her own clicking heels. It was surprising, how much he was actually enjoying himself. He honestly hadn't thought that he would given the reasons he had wanted to stay home in the first place. "Pretty please?" Well no stopping now. Smiling he lifted their intertwined hands above her head, twirling her around once. “Since you asked so kindly...I suppose. It is a dance after all.” He delivered his words into her ear softly. There was no way he was going to shout across the music, not with this many people around. He liked it whenever people had to wonder what it was he was saying to her. It was petty, but he liked the jealousy and intrigue it caused. That, and her hair smelled wonderful. Pulling her body back close to his own, her body heat flooding his torso all at once. “You have one shot left.” He moved them in the small space that she had located for them. “Should be an incredible parting gift I think...” just had to find somebody important enough. “Perhaps one of the professors?”

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have you listened to me lately,
(I'VE BEEN GOING CRAZY, CRAZY)

[/b][/font] 1,009
outfit: See Halloween thread.
tags: Sura
notes: wasn't certain if it was a fast or slow dance you wanted. Figured this could go either way?
credit: gabs of a different color; @ caution 2.0[/ul][/font][/font][/div]