Masked Butler - Masque of the Red Death

3. Glass of Merlot

 Nico did feel rested enough by dinner that he could join Prospero's party at the table, but that didn't mean he relished the idea of being any more sick than he was already feeling from the mere extravagance of the castle. Dinner passed fairly well, Nico stomaching as much as he could, though most of the dishes were just as sickly extravagant as the decor of the castle. And thankfully, no one really talked to him, allowing him to somewhat enjoy his dinner in peace, especially since Prospero was firm in having Erik sit with the servants for dinner. Nico couldn't wait for when Erik would come out to perform, he could tell which man Erik was nervous about, his aura reeked of spoiled brat. Finally, Erik appeared on the scene and, after giving an elegant bow to his audience, began to play a few opera pieces. Nico sat back in his chair, letting the music wash over him, taking him away from the eerie, extravagant castle, at least until Erik finished a couple of hours later.

Prospero rose as he applauded the masked butler, "Bravo, bravo! Magnifico! You really do have the voice of an angel! Amazing! We must have you sing once a night, at least! But if you will excuse me for a minute, there's some business I must attend to real quick. I shall be back shortly, so proceed with your own entertainment until I return. Thank you." Prospero gave a slight bow, and with a woman Nico was introduced to as Lady Juliana, left the table. His guests dispersed themselves to finding entertainment, both the spoiled brat and Erik homed in on Nico.

"Excuse me, Lord Di Angelo, I have long desired to make your acquaintance. I am Lord Alfredo, I met your talented butler in the hall earlier today."

"Ah yes, he informed me," muttered Nico. "A pleasure to meet you, Lord Alfredo."

"The pleasure is all mine," returned Alfredo with a quick bow. "After all, it isn't every day one meets the extraordinary, young lord of the Di Angelos. But, if you will excuse me, I see an acquaintance of mine I wish to catch up with. I hope you will enjoy your stay."

"Uh, thank you," blinked Nico. Alfredo took another bow and just about rushed away.

"Guess I shouldn't have been that worried, I keep forgetting you creep out most of these people," whispered Erik.

Nico scoffed, "Well, in cases like this, I'm glad of it."

"Me too." The two weaved in and out of the crowd, making light conversations with those they met, all while getting closer to their destination, a dark corner at the far side of the hall. When they finally made it, they took a deep breath, but most people didn't even notice them, they were so busy drinking alcohol and talking of materialistic gain.

"I'm beginning to see why the Red Death has been unleashed, these people are so selfish and vain."

"But Prospero is the main target."

"I know, though, I do wonder, why should the Red Death have to be released. It's not like there aren't plenty of other rich phonies like this bunch all over the world. Unless . . ." Erik glanced down at Nico as the teen rubbed his chin, "There's got to be another reason, there has to be. This castle gives off eerie vibes to my father's messengers, even to us; Prospero clearly delights in both the truly beautiful and extravagant fakes, he's clearly the wealthiest and most powerful one here in terms of politics. What's he hiding behind all this?"

"But is it really hidden, my liege, or is it only because we are new here that we do not know yet?"

"Could even be both. Best to do some searching after everyone's gone to bed."

Erik sighed, "Very well, I guess you will get your wish." Nico glanced at him quizzically. "You shall go to bed late and get up late." Nico smirked. "Just like the rest of these rich fakes." Nico grumbled under his breath, but he could tell Erik was smirking under his mask, especially once Erik wiggled his eyebrows with jest.