The Barrow-Downs' Third Birthday Party and Downie Awards

[Nuranar]

Tarondo couldn't believe his ears as the cacophony of partyish noise around him resolved into a definite three-count. Someone must have strange ideas about Barrow-Downs celebrations, he mused momentarily. But a waltz is a waltz is a waltz! Jumping to his feet, he seized his sister's hand. "Hurry, before it's done."

Luinien looked up in surprise, then grinned as she, too, heard the beat. "Let's go!" she said, slipping into his arms.

The couple spun rapturously around the dance floor while the song lasted. The sheer joy of doing something well possessed both of them, and they danced with an ease and grace born of long practice and love of movement.

Finally the music died. As Tarondo escorted her back to her seat, Luinien noticed a tall girl in a stunning deep red dress enter the Hall. She looked closer, then gasped in delighted recognition.

"Eress, old thing, how wonderful to see you again! It's been so long, I'm just devastated, darling. Tell me, how are things at home? And let me tell you, your dress is just too, too marvelous, darling!"