Work Text:
It felt weird to be celebrating. There was a war and instead of preparing for it, he was preparing for the Founding Day ball.
It’s not like he could be excited about planning it. Fodlan balls had very little feasting, not enough dancing, and had too many people wanting too many things from him. The worst part was that everyone wore black. It was so dreary.
Claude leaned against a chair as he listened to a few servants discuss how to hang the decorations. Another group was moving furniture around for the umpteenth time. A smaller pod was having a very serious debate over colors. In the center was a handful of servants dancing.
It wasn’t anything serious. They were just getting an idea of the space needed for the dance floor. Even with it being a job, they were still having fun with it. Men dramatically bowed as the women twirled their skirts as far as they could go. One began giggling as she tripped over her own feet. Another servant grabbed hold of her arm as she steadied herself.
Executing the dance steps that Fodlan was accustomed to was still difficult. The lessons he was receiving were at times more taxing than weapons training.
“Duke Riegan.” One of the servants who was dancing bowed to him. “Would you like to help us?”
Claude gave an easy smile. “What do you need help with?”
The servant smiled back. “We are aware you are taking dance lessons. This would be a fine chance to practice with us.”
Yes it was a fine chance. And yet he couldn’t help the dread that poured over his head. He couldn’t even skip dancing this year because he wasn’t some kid standing in the corner. He was now the Duke of Riegan.
The servant lifted her left hand up. “Don’t worry, the others will slow their steps to help.”
Claude kept the smile in place. “Thank you.” He carefully took hold of the servant's hand. “I appreciate the help.” And he absolutely meant that.
The group of dancing servants bowed to him before resuming their waltz. Just as promised, their steps slowed down for him. Occasionally speaking up to instruct what would happen during the ball. The importance of who to share a dance before the night ended.
It took a few laps around the dance floor but he was finally getting a hang of it all.
Claude just hoped in a few days he wouldn’t mess it up.