Etiquette:

The Art of the Fan

The fan (abanico in Castillan) is the indispendable accessory of a lady worthy of the name.  From its Castillan origin, it rapidly spread to Vodacce courtesans who elevated its use to a veritable art form. Used by elegant ladies of the aristocracy as a discreet means of communication with their lovers, it is now found in the courts of Castille, Montaigne, and Vodacce, where no ball, masquerade or carnival can take place without the elaborate and subtle exchange of messages between lovers.  The language of the fan comprises countless little gestures which vary from nation to nation and province to province.  The movements described here are the most commonly understood and recognized across Théah.

Fan held in the left hand: I am alone.

Fan held in the right hand: I am married/promised.

Fanning with the left hand: Come closer and chat with me

Fanning with the right hand: I wish to dance

Opening the fan in a brisk movement: Don't come near, wait for my signal.

Closing the fan in a brisk movement: You don't love me anymore.

Fan held close to the heart: You have conquered my heart.

Fan held close to the right shoulder: Do not betray our secret.

Fan resting against the right cheek: When can we meet alone?

Fan resting against the left cheek: You wound me.

Fan hiding the face with the right hand: Follow me.

Fan hiding the face with the left hand: I love another man.

Snatching the fan and holding it with both hands: Forgive me.

Snatching the fan, holding it with both hands and upside down: I promise that I will avenge myself from you.

Fan held against the lips: You can kiss me now.

Partially opening the fan: The number of ribs visible indicates a specific hour, counting from 9 o'clock in the morning.

Pretending to look attentively at the pattern of the fan: We are being watched.

Running a finger along the edge of the open fan: You are cruel to me.

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