Maison Aetherthorne Ascensions – Public Harmony Codex
Section: Joyaux Tourbillon Traditions – Approved for Ascended Ladies and Bonded Companions
Concerned Places: @Grand Ferris Pavilions & Ballroom Theatre
Ballroom dances are the glittering crown of high-society courtship, performed almost exclusively on Joyaux Tourbillon’s grand salons and open-air pavilions under colored steam chandeliers and moonlight terraces. These dances are delicate, theatrical expressions of harmony—every step, turn, and glance a silent conversation of devotion and grace. Orchestras of brass strings and steam organs provide the melody, blending classical waltzes with inventive aether rhythms.
Dances fall into two graceful categories, according to the gallant’s current form:
Human-Form Dances (Sustained Waltzes and Grand Balls) Reserved for deeper courtships or post-marriage celebrations, when the lady grants prolonged human form via her wedding ring (or temporary harmony privilege). These are the most romantic and traditional.
Mammal-Form Dances (Perch Waltzes and Companion Circles) The charming staple of early-to-mid courtship, when the gallant remains in refined animal form. These are playful yet elegant, emphasizing affection without full physical parity.
The Grand Aether Waltz (Human Form) A sweeping, three-step waltz in 3/4 time—partners glide in close embrace, gallant leading with confident arm around the lady’s waist, her gloved hand upon his shoulder. Turns incorporate steam-vent flourishes and gear spins for dramatic effect.
The Blooming Minuet (Human Form) A slower, stately dance of precise steps and bows—ideal for formal declarations or proposal celebrations. Partners trace floral patterns on the floor, mirroring garden courtship walks.
The Perch Waltz (Mammal Form) The signature companion dance: the lady waltzes alone or with other ladies in a grand circle, while her gallant perches elegantly upon her shoulder or gloved forearm. He sways in time, tail or ears fluttering rhythmically, occasionally leaping to her other shoulder in perfect sync—a display of trust and coordination.
The Companion Circle (Mammal Form) A group formation where ladies form an outer ring, gallants (in mammal form) dart or glide between them in an inner circle—never touching the floor improperly, but weaving patterns of devotion. Popular at debut balls for lighthearted familiarity.
The Moonlit Reverence (Transitional or Mixed) A slow, intimate dance on terraces—human-form gallants lead briefly before reverting to mammal perch for the finale, symbolizing the "taste of freedom" granted by love.
Propriety is paramount; gallants never presume.
In Human Form (deeper courtship or married): The gallant approaches with a deep bow, eyes lowered in respect, and offers his gloved hand palm-up while reciting a brief poetic invitation: “My lady, might this devoted gallant claim the honor of your next turn beneath the chandeliers?” He waits motionless until she responds.
In Mammal Form (standard courtship): The gallant approaches at the lady’s feet or perch site, performs a graceful bow (front paws extended, head lowered), and emits a soft, melodic chime from his harmony whistle or a refined vocalization (e.g., a fox’s trill, cat’s purr modulated into tune). He then places a tiny token—such as a single perfect bloom or engraved gear—at her feet as offering.
Ladies hold absolute grace in acceptance or refusal—no discord is ever shown publicly.
Acceptance (Human Form): She places her gloved hand lightly upon his, curtsies with a warm smile, and replies softly: “The honor is mine, my devoted one.” They proceed to the floor together.
Acceptance (Mammal Form): She extends her gloved forearm or shoulder as perch, or lifts him gently if needed, whispering: “Come, let us dance beneath the lights together.” For Perch Waltz, she joins the ladies’ circle; for Companion Circle, she smiles and steps into formation.
Refusal (Either Form): Delivered with gentle kindness to preserve harmony. She offers a small curtsy or graceful nod, saying: “Another time, perhaps, when the melody calls us both.” Or, in mammal form, she may lightly touch his head with a gloved finger and murmur: “Rest now, my companion; the next dance shall be ours.” The gallant bows deeply and retreats without protest—refusal is never taken as rejection of the bond, only a lady’s prerogative.
Persistent or ungraceful requests are rare; should they occur, Maison harmonists intervene discreetly to guide the gallant toward greater refinement.
Ballroom dances remain the most visible bloom of courtship—where steps speak what words only whisper, and every turn draws devoted hearts closer in eternal, harmonious rhythm.
Dance with Delicate Grace. Waltz in Everlasting Harmony.
(Embossed with the Perched Winged Gear Emblem)