Ianora doesn’t show an overt reaction to Alizeh’s gaffe or her accidental compliment, though if Alizeh is paying attention she will notice the corners of the elf’s mouth twitching, as if hiding a smile, and there is a glimmer of amusement in her eyes.<em>What</em>she finds amusing is Alizeh’s to guess.<br/><br/>When Alizeh leans nearer, she notes how Ianora’s gaze moves downward for a moment; and when her eyes return, they no longer hold amusement. Alizeh sees interest, perhaps even desire; and she might see how the elf has tipped her head, to gaze at her through her lashes.<br/><br/>“And this one is mine,” the elf says, taking the red rose for herself. “A fortunate coincidence, for red and purple are sacred to Alobal Lorfiril.” She lifts the flower to breathe in its scent, and thoughtfully taps the ruby petals against the corner of the rosebud of her mouth. “The game is called the Duelling Roses. The rules are very simple. The goal is to make your opponent make a sound other than speech, laughter, or breathing. You may use only the rose, and your lips. Fingers can be used to move or adjust clothing, but cannot touch bare skin. There is no right or wrong way to play the game. Some play to win; others, to lose. It is meant to be a way to experience and appreciate the sensation of touch. Allow me to demonstrate.”<br/><br/>Turning so they are close to facing each other, Ianora brings the red rose to Alizeh’s ear. Twirling the stem in her fingers, she touches the fluttering petals just beneath Alizeh’s earlobe, a ticklish sensation. A small smile on the elf’s face suggests she knows exactly what Alizeh is feeling. The motion stops; and now the elf lightly brushes the soft petals along Alizeh’s ear, tracing a line of delight from pointed tip to earlobe. Again and again she teases, and in her skillful hands it is like being painted with shivering pleasure.<br/><br/>Ianora draws nearer, whispering into Alizeh’s ear even as the rose continues its caress upon the other. “Do you see?” she says, soft breath tickling her earlobe.