Slight warning: the content is adult-ish, but nothing too explicit.
This humandeer super short story takes place in London, England in 1876. This would be years before their current ages, relatively speaking, so Fledermaus would be about 17 and Masque about 24. It explains a bit of my character's backgrounds, and shows just how evil Masque really is C:< Obviously, people back then spoke a bit differently, plus both of them are mainly German, so at the bottom I've compiled some footnotes because I know everyone loves reading textbook material. xD Sorry for the history and language lessons, but it'd be weird to read otherwise. xD
Also, the piece that Fledermaus is playing is called Träumerei (Dreaming) by R. Schumann, and you can listen to it here (it's quite lovely). Okay, I'm done being boring now. xD
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Formal and beautiful, the piano’s chords resounded throughout the dimly lit parlor. The sonata’s gentle rhythm had cast the whole room, and its only occupant, into a state of calm tranquility. In the entrance hall, a Black Forest styled wooden clock distinguished by deer antler carvings matched the tempo with its steady and hushed ticks. The player himself was devoid of outward emotion, his head lowered in thought and watching his slight fingers gently play the aged ivory keys. His brown eyes were dull, as if from weariness. Morning sunlight streamed inwards through the faded front window and brought warmth where it settled to the right side of his body in an otherwise chilled room. Outside, people passed by in carriages and on foot. Curbside men escorted their ladies delicately by the arm, engaging in light conversation, and children played lightheartedly.