A/N: okay I have a thing for Eunhae in Victorian era themed outfits so that happens. Less drama in this one and oh yes for a better image of what Hyukjae and Donghae wore, refer to imges down there, at the end of the fic ~

Let's dance.

“A ball? What do you mean Jongwoon’s holding a Ball?”

Eli sighed, the WereWolf Beta was having a hard time explaining to these shifters what a Ball meant.

“Before some of your erted minds get the wrong idea-“ Somewhere in the back the insistent sniggering stopped abruptly- “ or you guys make a joke out of it, The term 'ballroom dancing' is derived from the word ball, which in turn originates from the Latin word ballare which means 'to dance' (a ball-room being a large room specially designed for such dances). In times past, ballroom dancing was social dancing for the privileged and Lord Jonwoon wishes to carry on the tradition. A Ball is an event where Lord Jongwoon invites all the royals and nobles of Felondor and Ballroom dancing commences, couple dancing, the attire is absolutely formal- Victorian themed- and I have been sent here to formally invite you all to the Ball.”

Eli’s speech was followed by silence, while some faces looked excited, others looked hesitant.

“We are not royalty though, nor nobles” Leeteuk smiled appreciatively, trying to politely reject but Eli was not having any of this, he was given a task and so he shall complete it. “Leeteuk-ssi it is true you are neither Royalty nor nobles but you are indeed one of the strongest friends that Lord Jongwoon has, he considers you part of the family, I would suggest you do not break his heart, he cares for you all, very much.” Eli kept his shoulder broad; right now he looked like a boulder that could not be moved.

Leeteuk sighed and glanced over to Kyuhyun and Sungmin “Let the others know, we are going dancing tomorrow night.”

--

“Formal attire??” Donghae’s interest was instantly piqued, he had heard about those fancy outfits men and women wore, dancing languidly to slow romantic music, the posh and classy setting had always fascinated him and now here he was being invited to one! What great luck!! He excitedly turned to Hyukjae-his husband, he was so glad he was able to refer to him by this title, this was their third month as a married couple- who did not seem that fascinated.

“Hyukjae! You don’t look excited at all, babe!”

Hyukjae sighed and rubbed at his tired eyes “ Maybe because I’m not even interested in going, or I’m just sleepy” he yawned, still rubbing at his eye and donghae could not hold back a coo, gently pulling his hand away from rubbing his eye anymore.

“Well, looks like we will need to go shopping In the morning, since none of us has such attires.” Sungmin slipped off of the bed, taking in the sight of the couple who had come to stay a few nights over at the Mansion, they looked ready for bed “Now get some rest you two, sweet dreams.”

The two chorused goodnight as Sungmin left, flicking the light switch off, Hyukjae leaned back in Donghae’s arms, tugging him down to lay in bed. He rolled onto Donghae’s side and sleepily blinked at him, smiling at how awake Donghae looked with those wide twinkling eyes “You look happy.”

“I am” he affirmed, pecking his nose “You look adorable when you’re all sleepy by the way, but Hyuk! How can you not be interested in going! It’s going to be so awesome, we will get to dress up all suits and long-tailed coats and wow I just imagined you in one and just imagine me ripping that suit off of you before we-“

Hyukjae sniggered, eyes blinking heavily as he placed a hand on Donghae’s mouth, snuggling close and wrapping his legs around Donghae’s “Shh, let’s not rip it off, it’s going to be hard finding one of those things.” Hyukjae didn’t even bother trying to keep his eyes open. Donghae grinned widely, kissing Hyukjae fully on the lips and pressed their foreheads together as he hummed softly “You will look so able in it.”

He thought he heard a faint “ert” from the almost asleep Hyukjae.

--

<^>The Etiquette of the Ballroom<^>

Rules for the Ballroom

<>A man who knows how to dance, and refuses to do so, should absent himself from a ball.

<>Noisy talking and boisterous laughter in a ballroom are contrary to the rules of etiquette.

<>In a ballroom, never forget nor confuse your word about dancing certain dances with certain partners. If such should occur, an apology, of course, must be offered and pleasantly accepted.

<>Always wear white gloves in a ballroom. Very light shades are admissible.

<>Usually a married couple do not dance together in society, but it is a sign of unusual attention for a husband to dance with his wife, and he may do so if he wishes, however they shall not dance more than two dances as it come off as highly unsociable.

<>Great care should be taken by a lady in refusing to dance with a gentleman. After refusing, she should not accept another invitation for the same dance. Similar case for the gentlemen, it is rude to reject one individual a dance but accept someone else for the same dance.

<>Ladies and gentlemen who are not yet acquainted shall request to be introduced by the hosts and floor managers, only those who had been introduced shall be able to ask for a dance. They may remain partners in multiple dances.

<>Be cheerful and pleasant to everyone. Do not be short, nasty or snooty to inexperienced dancers and never make anyone feel unwelcome or not "up to snuff". If we want our hobby to survive, we need a regular infusion of new (and therefore inexperienced) dancers, and we should do everything we can to make them feel welcome and included. They will learn far more from your excellent example than from your nasty comments or rolling eyes.

<>At the end of the dance, do not abandon your partner and run off seeking another. Take your partner's arm and walk back to, more or less, the place you started or to some other location the lady requests. Make pleasant conversation en route, and then give a little bow and say "thank you".

Donghae ignored what was written ahead as he glared at a certain rule about spouses “What the actual ?!” Donghae hollered, too close to Hyukjae’s ear who winced and clamped a hand on the poor ear, puzzled at the reaction Donghae had over whatever was written on the fancy looking paper. It was rimmed with a golden strip, the content all written in fancy italics. They had just come in for breakfast when Leteeuk had handed over the paper to donghae.

“What does it say?” Hyukjae asked, trying to look over donghae’s shoulder.

“Ballroom rules! Who sets rules for dancing anyways! Oh my goodness one of the rules says I can’t dance with my spouse more than two times! That’s it, I’m talking to Jongwoon about this!” Donghae got up with zest, only to be held down by Hyukjae from one side and a smirking Sungmin from the other “Calm down Hae” Sungmin coaxed him “I’m sure these are just to ensure discipline since everybody who is somebody would be there, that’s just a way of telling everyone to behave themselves while at such an event.” Sungmin grinned “It makes perfect sense to me, since tons of different species would be gathered there, everyone would need to try and get along.”

Hyukjae nodded as he chewed over a meatball, shoving one down donghae’s parted lips as well “Last night you were so hyped about it, don’t let a few lines bring you down Hae, we are going to have so much fun and if it helps, you can imagine me in one of those tailed-coats and-“

“Oh it helps greatly!” Donghae suddenly brightened; Hyukjae gaped at the 360 reversal in Donghae’s aura which was suddenly cheerful. He devoured his breakfast and got up, shouting he was done and that the rest of them should hurry up too. Sungmin stared at Hyukjae in wonder “Wow…I think he imagined you in only a tailed-coat—oh mental image go away!”

Hyukjae groaned” Hyung, just shut up.”

--

“Oh wow, Hyuk you have to get this too!”

Donghae was a hyper ball of sunshine, zooming from one end of the shop to the other. They had finally found a costume shop with the exact items they had been looking for and currently Donghae was holding up several hangers dangling from each finger, each displaying a unique costume. The salesman was cheerfully going on and on about everything donghae being ‘excellent choice sir!’ and Hyukjae was near to telling the man he didn’t need to repeat the same thing over and over.

Hyukjae glanced helplessly over to Leeteuk and Kangin who stood observing a red silk vest along with Sungminm Henry and Kyuhyun who matched it up with a long black velvet coat.

“Hyuk hyuk hyuk, look! This jacket with this vest” Donghae brightly shoved a black vest adorned with silver button and the patterned golden and black jacket “y, right?” Hyukjae only nodded and Donghae threw them careless onto Hyukjae’s face, dashing back to a corner of the shop as he asked Hyukjae to hold onto them.

The salesman went fluttering after Donghae, chirping about everything Donghae touched being excellent choice.

Hyukjae tiredly leaned against a wall, it was going to be a long long day, Donghae’s cheerful chattering had him watching his husband with delight. He was finally his.

--

The time was near, the Mansion was bustling with activity, everyone in a hurry to get washed up and put on their Victorian themed outfits. It was evening time already and Jongwoon had sent word again that they better not be late or else. Leetek honestly did not want to know the meaning of ‘what else.’

Leeteuk hurriedly ran a hand over his vest, neatly stuffing it inside his jacket before buttoning it up, one last glance in the mirror and he marched out of his room, quickly decending down the steps and opening Kangin’s room, raising a brow as he was greeted by the sight of Kangin fixing someone’s hair.

The ‘someone’ turned and Leeteuk’s brow reached his hair line “Well. , Hyukjae do you look good or what.”

Hyukjae grinned widely and turned all the way, presenting himself to Leeteuk. Hyukjae wore an ornate aristocrat's coat. A formal victorian steampunk coat with tails. Made in beautiful gold/brown/green/black tapestry fabric with luxurious black velvet lapels. Fully lined in rich black satin. Six ornate brass buttons decorate the front and two at the waist in back. Three smaller brass buttons are at each cuff - “Just good, hyung? I was aiming for ‘dressed to kill’ actually.” He carefully moved his hand up along his dark brown fringes that were styled up in spikes

Kangin snorted “For someone who was not initially interested in such an event, you sure did dress up well, now all we need to do is keep Donghae on a leash in case he tries jumping you in public.”

Hyukjae smirked, his thoughts flying over to Donghae who had thought it would be better to not show Hyukjae just which outfit he had chosen to wear.

--

“Ugh hyung!” Donghae grunted, scowling at himself in the mirror. He wore an elegant swashbuckler's coat made in rich gold and black striped tapestry fabric, with extra wide pirate cuffs. The coat was cut very full then gathered at the waist in back in classic frock coat style. Antique brass liberty coin buttons fastened the front and decorate the cuffs. Trimmed on the collar, cuffs and back with rich black braided trim. Two large hip pockets on either side to hide that plump booty of his. The coat was fully lined in sleek black. The only thing he was struggling with was his hair, meanwhile Sungmin stood by his side, calmly smiling at their reflections. According to Donghae, Sungmin look perfect wearing an elegant swashbuckler's coat made in rich gold and black striped tapestry fabric. Sungmin sighed and put a hand over his shoulder, coaxing him to turn around “Here, I’ll help.”

“Make me look hot please.”

Sungmin snorted “ Donghae my dearest brother, you sound like you truly want to kill that poor innocent husband of yours, it’s been just three months to your marriage and you’re already set on murder?”

Donghae’s lips curled in a devilish grin as Sungmin parted his hair sideways. “Yes.”

--

Once all of them were dressed and looking sharp in their long patterned coat or tailed jackets, they put on long velvety cloaks. Jongwoon had sent special carriages to fetch the guests and in all honesty everyone was enjoying the little flavor and feel of being royalty. Donghae had on purpose slipped into the carriage that was already occupied by three and had room for one more, Hyukjae had almost growled at him as he had stomped off to the other carriage.

Donghae loved getting reactions out of Hyukjae.

“He still has not seen your outfit?” an amused Leeteuk questioned, Donghae snorted and Leeteuk got his answer “Right. Well for the record I have seen Hyukjae’s outfit.”

Interested, Donghae raised a brow only to glare as this time Leeteuk laughed “Not telling.”

“Screw you, you tease.” Hyukjae first words as Donghae finally took his cloak off, almost as the same time as Hyukjae’s.  He was smiling nevertheless, soaking in the view that was Donghae, so perfectly marvelous, serene and magnetic at the same time.

“Excuse me sir, kindly refrain from using such words once inside the ballroom. Please settle your disputes outside the Palace.” A well-trained looking servant spoke politely as he took away their cloaks. Donghae smirked, his chocolate eyes glowing bright “Shall we then, Hyukjae-ssi? Solve our disputes outside?” his tone was highly suggestive of course, to which Kyuhyun only grunted “ or just get a room already.”

The identical wicked grins on the newlyweds faces made Leeteuk a little nervous, he clasped a restraining hand on both of their shoulders and spoke sternly “Now remember all the rules we read you two, for tonight don’t hog each other to yourselves, interact and ask others for dances, and I do not want either one of you making an issue out of it, am I making myself clear?”

Hyukjae and Donghae nodded, looking slightly scared at how Leeteuk’s eyes had darkened before the man instantly lightened up, smiled and walked ahead, leading everyone into the ball room.

It was like a dream in there, as if they had entered through a portal into a fantasy tale set in the Victorian era. It boasted a romantic theme of Victorian and Italiante style ambiance. The warm and inviting hues of burgundy, cream, and deep greens complimented the open, inviting atmosphere.

Their eyes travelled slowly, scanning the place and taking in the view, the Ballroom was complete with a full stage, large dance floor, and a unique pub setting with an European fireplace. It  was already swarming with guests, ladies in round, flowing frocks and sleek gowns, men in sharply cut coats and jackets. They didn’t realize they were moving too slowly, Kyuhyun had to quickly step to the side, moving Sungmin along as a pair of ladies I pink passed them. His yes travelled up to the roof, a soft ‘woah’ escaped his parted lips as he watched the crystal chandeliers. The whole place was perfect and suddenly Kyuhyun truly felt like Royalty, he was loving the feeling and judging by the looks on others faces, they sure were digging it too.

“My favorite people are here!” It was Jogwoon, dressed in a long red and black velvety coat, pretty much looking like a King as he approached  them, beckoning them further in. “Now guys I’m sure you read all the rules.” Donghae murmured something under his breath, Hyukjae quickly hushed him so Jongwoon ignored that and carried on “So I’m not going to add anything, you guys are already perfect in my eyes and may I add you all look like group of Charming Princes and I’m sure the single ladies in here will be all over you all- aside from that, I have floor managers all over the place, they are all dressed in similar white dress shirts and black vests so if you want to get introduced to anyone at all just ask for their help, alright?”

“Thanks a lot Jongwoon.” Kangin grinned, fixing his extended black collar “This is great, thanks for inviting us.”

“Enjoy!” Jongwoon winked, soon to be pulled aside by one of the floor managers about something, leaving their little group on their own.

--

The dancing had commenced all the guests had arrived and everyone had scattered, going about being introduced or meeting old acquaintances.

“As your Husband, Hyukjae, I would like to openly tell you that it is absolutely fine with me if you go off and ask several ladies and even other men for a dance, since we are meant to mingle, then let’s mingle” donghae smiled generously, he really was feeling okay with this by now. Hyukjae nodded, glad Donghae was being so cool about this “ Same goes for you, go get ‘em” donghae chuckled a little before he leaned in and gently kissed his him before walking away. Hyukjae watched him leave; his smile decreasing a bit as he unconsciously puffed his cheek.

That brat could have asked me for the first dance though. Just when he had thought that and started looking around he felt someone tap his shoulder, turning, his eyes widened a bit but before he could say a word the man who had approached him held out a hand “May I have this dance, dear husband?”

Hyukjae actually heard himself giggle as he took Donghae’s hand “If you insist.” The smile donghae returned sent giddy sensations through him.

--

Donghae leaned in and stole a kiss from the somewhat distracted Hyukjae who let out a startled gasp causing Donghae to chortle “Eyes on me, please.” Hyukjae shook his head, smiling nevertheless as he stepped to the rhythm of bass, piano and percussions. They had a great time slow dancing to the jazz number, moving about and swinging while sharing playful smiles, as the number ended they stopped, all those present on the dance floor briefly clapped for the players before Donghae and Hyukjae left the floor to enjoy some absolutely mouth-watering treats set on the tables located in the corners of the large hall.

“Excuse me Gents.” The two turned spotting two gorgeous ladies and a man floor manager “The ladies wished to be introduced to you.” The two flashed their most charming smiles at the ladies, they introduced themselves as Kim and Gem who turned out to be sisters. When they got to know that Hyukjae and Donghae were in fact husbands and not friends the two seemed embarrassed and greatly hesitant, even apologizing and trying to move away but the two only smiled warmly, insisting that it was absolutely no problem and they would love a dance. Hyukjae offered Gem a hand while donghae led Kim to the floor. After they had danced and the ladies had been escorted to their seats the two met up near the same table.

 “You, sir, are one hell of a charming person.” Hyukjae spoke in a hushed manner, intense gaze locked with Donghae’s , he had subtly kept an eye on Donghae’s partner who seemed to be struck breathless just by being near Donghae.

Donghae stepped closer slowly, a sly look dancing within those bright chocolate orbs “And you sir are a greater charmer, you even tamed a charmer like me.”

“Gosh, stop, I love it when you talk like that” Hyukjae cast a distracted look aside, his eyes just could not escape those glinting chocolate orbs that had the capability of holding him captive.

“Then why should I stop?” donghae was inching closer and he had that look on his face as he whispered huskily. Hyukjae almost stuttered, now he could not actually admit what effect it had on him, not like he needed to say anything, that smile growing on Donghae’s face was proof the man could, as usual, feel it.

Too soon for donghae’s liking Hyukjae was ‘stolen’ from him, of course he kept that thought in mind, tonight anyone had a right to claim a dance with his husband and he had promised to himself he would be cool about it. He watched as Leeteuk introduced a Lady to Hyukjae, so donghae began to look around, perhaps some lady would be interested in getting introduced to him or he could spot someone he liked.

--

Dinner had been served and much to hyukjae’s disappointment he had not managed to get hold of Donghae after their first dance together, the Ball was soon going to end and guests would be departing. Couples were still dancing and all he could do was watch them with a sigh, not feeling as hungry as the rest of his hyung who ate and laughed, talking about the several new friends they had made.

Donghae was just too popular tonight and Hyukjae could not help that pinching feeling anymore. Donghae behaved exceptionally well, no jealousy fits what so ever and Hyukjae was very happy about that. Right now however he was sure he needed to be concerned about the hints of feeling neglected that coursed through him.

“Hey guys, I feel like taking a walk outside, fetch me from there once we are about to leave.”

Kangin nodded, eyeing Hyukjae carefully.

Hyukjae exited the Ballroom through the back door that he had been told would lead to a pleasant garden, decorated with little lights that spread a warm golden glow over the place, a pair of fountains with light beams flickering through them provided a beautiful view. Hyukjae sighed again as he came to stop near the fountain, watching how it was carved in brilliant detail. The sound of guitars and pianos drifted all the way here, his lips stretched in a small smile as his gaze travelled up to the starry sky. The sights and sounds gave a romantic feeling, something Donghae loved way more than Hyukjae.

“There you are.”

Hyukjae grinned and looked over his shoulder “Oh hello Mr. Popular, how did the ladies allow you to leave?”

Donghae came to a stop near Hyukjae, peering carefully into his eyes “Hyuk, the ladies don’t matter. You were my first dance, and you will also be my last dance, which is about to begin soon. Now that we are here.” Donghae looked around and then smiled “ I think this this is a perfectly romantic spot, yes?

Hyukjae was smiling lovingly at his husband as he stretched out his hand “May I have this dance then?”

Donghae instantly pulled him in, stalling a bit as he feigned an innocently curious look “ Though, later on can I please rip all this fancy clothing off of you and then we c-“

“Donghae!!” 

"Yikes, sorry!"

---

Ah, these two. Anyways links not working anymore so putting up the actual images.

Donghae wore:

Hyukjae wore:

Now you can imagine them looking all breathtakingly handsome and charming and I should stop.