The life and death of Nicolae Roman

Chapter 11: The University Ball

As evening approached, Nicolae made his final decision:  he was going to attend the ball at the University of London.  He called his valet to help him dress.  Since he didn't have nearly as many choices as he did back home, it was easier to decide on an outfit.

"Sir, here is your vest and cravat," Ion presented his master with a spring-green silk vest and a jet black silk cravat.

"Thank you, Ion," Nicolae replied.  He stood in front of the mirror putting on his silver cufflinks.  He already wore a white silk shirt and black pants.

"And don't forget my pocket watch," he advised his valet, while running a hand through his dark locks.

"Of course, Sir," Ion returned with the gold pocket watch that Nicolae inherited from his grandfather.

"Well... do I look presentable?"  Nicolae turned around grinning.

"You always do, Count Roman," Ion answered.  "Here is your top hat and coat, Sir." 

"Thank you, Ion... and wish me luck," Nicolae said as he headed toward the door.

"Luck is always on the side of good people," Ion shouted from behind, but Nicolae had already stepped outside.

As he exited the building, Nicolae took a deep breath of the cool evening air.  Although it was July, the London weather remained fairly cold.  Nicolae decided to walk through the park on his way to the ball.  His mind was racing:  what would Elizabeth say when she saw him?  And what would Ludwig do? 

"Don't worry about him," Nicolae tried to reassure himself.  "You can take care of him... if it becomes necessary." 

As he approached the university, Nicolae noticed there were many carriages stopped in front of it.  People were pouring in from all directions.  It was almost impossible to get through the crowd rushing to enter the hall.  Nicolae practically had to elbow his way through dozens of eager participants.  He was dazzled by the multitude of colors and smells emanating from the men and women surrounding him.  Undoubtedly this was an important occasion, because everyone was dressed to a T.  Nicolae felt confident in the way he looked, especially since many of the young ladies were staring at him in admiration.  He handed the doorman his coat and hat and stepped inside the brightly lit ballroom which was already full.

Luckily,  his height gave him quite an advantage and he was able to see over most heads around him.  His sharp eyes quickly spotted the object of his affection.  Elizabeth looked elegant in a dove-gray silk gown with white lace sleeves.  Her red hair was piled on top of her head in a very becoming updo.  Her golden hairpin was shaped like a flame.  Nicolae grinned at the choice - it matched not only her outward appearance, but also her personality.

Alas, Nicolae also immediately spotted Elizabeth's escort to the ball:  his nemesis, Ludwig Eberwald.  To his dismay, Ludwig looked very elegant as well, in a dark grey suit and a red vest.  His chestnut hair was a bit mussed up, but, to Nicolae's chagrin, that only increased Ludwig's physical appeal.

Ludwig had his right hand placed on Elizabeth's lower back, as he was guiding her through the crowd.  They were deeply immersed in conversation and occasionally laughed, making Nicolae cringe.  He decided to watch them for a while without interrupting whatever they were talking about.

Ludwig guided Elizabeth to a dimmer far-corner of the ballroom, away from the people who were dancing in the center of the grand hall.  He found two side by side chairs and immediately claimed them.  Nicolae narrowed his eyes when he saw Ludwig placing the chairs into even closer proximity before offering Elizabeth one.  They proceeded to sit down and continue their conversation.  It seemed to be quite intense, because neither one paid any attention to the crowd. They appeared to be in their own little world.