Title: Lesson 1: Social Graces Author: bookishtype Character: Inara (pre FF) Rating: G Word Count: 155

“A companion must always be aware of how she appears to the outside world as well as her client”, the teacher stood in front of the class.

“She must always take into account where she will be seen. If it is a public venue, a marketplace, a restaurant, the appropriate mannerisms and movements must show that who she is.

A companion must make an entrance worth seeing. She must be able to walk into that café or restaurant and have everyone know she is there.”

The teacher continued, “Her client is also important and must feel that he or she are also important. They require attention and must be shown this through body language as well as simple gestures like touching their arm. It is through these social graces that you will succeed in gaining clients.”

“Inara, will you please demonstrate this. Make an entrance into this room using what you have learnt so far”

Title: Lesson 2: Fashion Author: bookishtype Character: Inara (pre FF) Rating: G Word Count: 147

“Clothes, hair and makeup speak volumes, ladies. They allow you shine in a crowd and leave an imprint in minds. When attending formal gatherings, the appropriate attire will allow your entrance to be either significant or insignificant”, the teacher sat at the side of the classroom, a slide show of current fashions played on wall for the companions to see. Inara took in the pictures, making notes in her journal for later inspection.

“Your client will want a companion who will cause a cataclysmic thought through all the men in a room, that they wish to be him on your arm.

Your entrance into their world will set you up for the future. It will allow you to explore new life experiences and ultimately new clients”, the teacher turned off the slide show.

Rising from her seat, she turned and clapping her hands “Ladies! Let’s go shopping.”

Title: Lesson 3: Poise Author: bookishtype Character: Inara (pre FF) Rating: G Word Count: 143

“The basic lessons of poise and posture make who you are as a Companion. To carry oneself through a crowded room with ease takes practice and plenty of poise.

A straight back and long neck is beautiful, ladies, fluid motions and a Mona Lisa smile are inviting.”

“Inara, will you come to the front please.”

Inara rose and walked to the front of the room, where her teacher stood.

“Ladies, allow Inara to demonstrate these actions. Straight back, long neck, fluid motion in arms and torso and, of course the smile.

Thank you Inara, you can be seated.”

“Ladies, it is not only in crowds that these elements pay off. Have you ever tried to enter a room hunched over and scowling? Poise and posture will allow you make a most grand entrance even if it is to the café down the street.”

Title: Lesson 4: Real Life – Shindig Author: bookishtype Character: Inara (pre FF) Rating: G Word Count: 169

Inara paced her room. It was only a few hours until the ball and Atherton had gone to attend to some business. The Social Event of the Season awaited her and she had a dilemma. What dress to wear? There were two suitable for such an occasion, and Atherton, was willing to purchase both for her to choose from.

Should it be the champagne gold one or the plum dress? Inara threw up her hands in frustration. The decision was making her anxious; finally she snatched the gold one up. Inara began to dress for the ball.

The ball was being held at the Ol’Chancellors building. Inara held the crook of Atherton’s arm as he guided her towards the entrance of the ballroom.

Poise... fluid motions.... smile. A touch here and there, Inara. Shine in the crowd. You belong here.

“Atherton Wing and Inara Serra”, the announcer spoke their names. Inara took a deep breath, glanced at Atherton and smiled.

Places everybody, Inara thought. And she made her entrance.

Quote: Shindig ATHERTON :Half the men in this room wish you were on their arm tonight. INARA:Only half? I must be losing my undefinable allure. ATHERTON:Not that undefinable. All of them wish you were in their bed.