She hadn’t intended to hunt. In truth, it was a barbarous custom and she wished no part in it. Uncle Claymore was merely using the event to bring Lord Carlton into her circle. Well! She would see that braggart in Hades sooner than become his bride, will or no will. If Uncle wanted her fortune in the hands of one of his toadies then it would be over her dead body. Melisande slammed the jewel chest, nearly catching the little maidservant’s fingers. With a most unladylike snort and the high color of temper flaming her cheeks, she plucked the black hat from the servant’s now nerveless fingers and sailed through the door. “Coo ee!” thought the girl. “She is in a high nib this day and Lord help them that’s in her way!”

Crimson feather flying like a battle flag, Melisande made a pretty picture as she passed the ladies waiting to take the carriages to the moor. She would ride. When the groom noted her lack of boots, she snorted again and demanded a hand up. The mare sensed her mood and danced prettily, barely waiting for the press of a knee before she was off on a high lope. This sight was not unnoticed by the afore mentioned toady, Lord Carlton. It was, perhaps fortunate, his smile was not noticed by that high strung lady.

What had begun as a bright day, perfect for the hunt, had dimmed to a dull rain threatening gray. The seasoned members were undeterred. Melisande, who fervently wished to be elsewhere, kept her mount to the edge of the crowd as the birds took to the sky. She raised her arm to adjust her hat and was startled when a feathered shape streaked from out of the blue. She was completely undone when the brazen creature landed upon her wrist. Knowing golden eyes seemed to capture her blue gaze. The mesmerized Melisande uttered a startled curse when it suddenly abandoned her arm for that of it’s apparent owner. Of all things disagreeable! The toady! With a twitch of the reins and the decided elevation of an elegant chin, she quipped, “You Sir, have an ill mannered hawk.” That devilish smile was in plain view as he softly replied, “Are his manners in question because he favored you or because he abandoned you?” And before the lady could reply, he tossed a wave and departed on the words, “A Merlin will choose as he pleases. He rarely misses his prey. Nor do I.”

An odd little smile played on her lips as she watched the well seated Carlton ride away. She just might give the fellow a chance. That she might.

The Costume - This adaption of a 17th century hunting costume has been created in teal blue satin and a selection of lame fabrics in striped and brocade patterns. The fully lined skirt of satin has been banded along the hem with a striped band and a brocade band. The bands are edged with cord and the inside band has been beaded with glass “pearl” beads. The fully lined, brocade patterned coat has the traditional pleated skirt and the back has been turned up to show the teal satin lining. The front lapels and back hem are accented with cranberry slashes and pearl and gold glass beads. The lined cuffs and working pockets are of a tiny striped lame. They have been beaded and banded in gilt foil. Delicate lace edged lawn sleeves peek from the cuffs and a matching handkerchief hangs from one pocket. The corset under-bodice of cranberry silk has front lacing. Her hand painted leather game bag and keys are attached at the waist. She wears one black gauntlet glove, while the other may be held in hand or drape from a pocket. Though not recommended, they are removable. She wears a tiny golden cross from a chain and “pearl” and pearl drop choker and matching earrings. Her black velvet “Cavalier” hat is fully lined and trimmed with fringe, striped hatband and feathers. A black taffeta, ruffled slip, black panties, thigh high stockings and embellished black velvet shoes complete the costume.

The Falcon - The little falcon was had sculpted in polymer clay, painted and feathered to resemble a merlin, though it was created to the larger gyrfalcon’s size. It is perched on a black leather band which ties around the glove for a secure display.

Melisande has bendy elbows and knees. Her costume was completely hand sewn from original, artist designed patterns and is not removable.

Sydney as Melisande - has been completely repainted. She has blue eyes, shadowed in soft charcoal, feathered dark brows, beautifully shaded rose lips, a natural manicure, new wig and carefully fitted, applied lashes.

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