A Bane to Butt-Bows Everywhere

Some time after dancing with Martin, Folly spies the strapping Viking standing alone. She fetches a glass of water and makes her way over.

"Dear lord Viking," she says in greeting, "I thought you might perhaps prefer a glass of water to the other refreshments available. After all, we will need you clear-headed if you are to protect us from the invasion of butt-bows that always seems to accompany formal gatherings...."

Folly doesn't quite manage to keep a straight face.

"Butt-bows are the scourge of all formal gatherings," the Viking says in a gruff voice as he bows to Folly. He accepts the water with a "Thank you for the refreshment of your company as well as the water. You appear to be enjoying yourself immensely," the Viking adds with a nod to the dance floor and a slight smile as he takes a drink from the glass.

"I am," Folly agrees with a big smile. "I seldom want for much more than good music and good company. Tonight we've got both in abundance -- and dancing, to boot!"

Folly regards the Viking for a moment and then, with a mischievous grin, asks, "Do you intend to dance this evening, lord Viking?" The Viking probably gets the sense that Folly would gleefully offer up her services as a partner, were such a thing desired.

The Viking smiles slightly as he takes a sip of water. "No offense to you, Lady," The Viking bows at Folly, "but your dances are not known to me and I have no wish to embarrass you or myself. Perhaps a brief tour around the room? I would not want to have to fight off a mob of suitors if I kept you too long from center stage..."

"Oh, I suspect you'd only need to fight one," Folly replies; "-- and the others, upon seeing your skill, would lay down their arms and back away slowly." She grins broadly at the mental image.

In a slightly more serious tone, Folly continues, "But, yes, a brief tour around the room is probably a better choice. Especially if it involves refreshments."