middaeg | MASQUERADE: Noveur 7

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MASQUERADE: Noveur 7

WELCOME TO THE MASQUERADE

I. Arrival

The event starts early evening, Noveur 7, thanks to the help of several hands. They had worked for a couple of days prior to the start to get the large ballroom decorated to everyone's liking. The day of the event, earlier on, a few may have appeared to do some final touches. Those who had stayed behind to help with some last minute decorating, Louis had cleared out and advised to leave so that they could get ready for the masquerade.

a. Outside

When you approach, you will find that the outside of the building is a perfect location for a masquerade. There's a large ballroom, granted to them for use by the Coven. They had been kind enough to allow them to have the space and necessary supplies in order to throw such a party. And, it's clear that they took every advantage of the granted space and land around them.

There's a gorgeous, outdoor fountain, and lights underneath the water to give it a pleasant, warm glow through the water. If you watch it long enough, the lights seem to shift colors. There's gardens surrounding the building, as well. The gardens, like the fountain, have low, warm lighting around them so that the plant-life will be clear well into the late night.

There's benches outside as well, with a clear view of the fountain - so if someone needs to step outside or take a break from the indoor events, they can enjoy the fresh air and the warm, calming feeling from the fountain and gardens. This is a perfect place to escape when you want to relax away from the bustle of a party.

b. Inside

The entryway has open curtains, gold - and tied back with a burgundy rope. There to make everyone feel as though stepping inside, they are making an entrance of their own. Once you step inside, you'll notice the grand ballroom with high ceilings is fully decorated. It is clear that a lot of effort and time went into this, thanks to the help of many different people and several sets of hands. The colors that seem to be continually present are gold, reds, and purples. Though from time to time there may be splashes of other colors and personal touches from those who had helped in places - mostly in the form of masks hanging on the walls, or balloons scattered in places away from the main dance floor.

From the main ballroom entrance, straight ahead, is the main dance floor and to the right - refreshments. Near the refreshments, there are a several standing tables to set down a drink or stand around to socialize with friends or people you've just met. In addition to the standing tables, there's a couple of dining tables and chairs so that you can sit and eat, drink, or chat.

Inside the main ballroom there's a few gaming tables scattered around - including card games with some dealers around where you can gamble, and pool tables. Make a wager or play for fun, it's all up to you. Additionally, on the floor Kaito will be performing magic tricks to entertain individuals and small groups throughout the floor. You'll be able to catch him periodically through the night.

There are a few hallways leading to several rooms, and it all depends on what you're looking for, but no matter what it is, you can probably find it.

One of the rooms has the silent auction. Here, you can look at some of the things that are up for bidding. There's several interesting, enchanted items including: weapons, jewelry, books, instruments. They are protected, as well, so they can only go home with the winner.

Don't worry - there's signs posted everywhere so you will be able to find what you're looking for.

c. Enchanted Masks

You're welcome to have brought a mask that you had picked out for yourself, or - if you prefer, you can pick up an enchanted mask near the entrance of the party itself. These enchanted masks will conceal all distinguishing features, whether they are as simple as horns and scales, or as large as a set of wings. The only obvious features will be what a character is wearing, whether it is their attire, mask, or both.

You aren't obligated to wear them, of course, but they do provide the total anonymity that is often part of the excitement at a masquerade such as this. These effects are only present when one is wearing the mask. The moment the mask is off, any distinguishing features are immediately visible.

It's a perfect opportunity to have a little fun and engage with someone you may not have spoken with otherwise.

This enchantment will wear off the next day at sunrise, so you may keep the mask you pick out for yourself at the party.

d. Photobooth

Near the front of the ballroom there's a neat looking photobooth set up thanks to the work of both Omi and Prompto. There's props so you can take fun or silly pictures with your friends or date for the night. The backdrop for the photobooth is magical, of course. With a quick flip the background can be changed to one you desire whether it's a different color, an entirely new environment. The photobooth will be available through the night.

Additionally, you'll be able to find Omi on the floor catching candid photos of the attendees. Smile!

II. Refreshments

Away from the dance floor are several tables with matching, deep purple, table cloths. On top of the table are a variety of foods - some brought by the attendees, others brought in thanks to the aid of the coven. You can expect to find at least something that you'll absolutely love when exploring the options. There's everything there - from healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and dip - to less healthy options such as cupcakes, and truffles. Food on sticks, and easy finger foods seem to be a very popular options.

While many of the options wouldn't even require a plate, there are some plates and utensils in shades of blue and gold available to use.

Next to the food there is a table featuring three punch bowls with three different flavors. One seems to be a fruit punch, one seems be purely berry flavored, and one - seems to be a bit of a surprise. It tastes a little bit different to everyone who tries it, but so far - there have been no complaints. Next to them, if you would prefer, there's pitchers of water.

Near the back corner, there's a bar with a bartender, there to serve those who would like a drink. Ask for a surprise, or your favorite drink, and you can have something mixed for you. Next to the bar, there are rows of the most popular bottles of alcohol. Though you won't be stopped if you take one, please tell the bartender so that they can keep their stock replenished for the other guests.

Drinks, of course, come free to those who are able to legally drink. Anyone underage will be met with a powerful enchantment that is acting as a method of preventing that from happening.

III. Dance

a. The Lock Box

Maybe you want to find a new dance partner. Maybe you want to find a new Bond. Maybe you just want to talk to someone new. The Lock Box is near the entrance of the ballroom. It's inaccessible thanks to both a lock and enchantment that are on it.

It's set up neatly on a table, with only it, paper, and a pen so that names can be written and added to the box. When you enter your name, another name will be produced from the box. It is clearly enchanted, of course. Once you're given a name, you and your new dance partner will be compelled to be near one another. This will last for about the length of a song - long enough to dance, or have a conversation.

Usually, only others who have put their names in the box will have their name drawn, but sometimes those who didn't put their name in the box will have their name drawn and will feel compelled to seek out someone who drew their name.

Sorry to those who didn't volunteer, magic isn't always the most predictable! Though you may get lucky and just find your next friend or Bond, so it's hard to get mad about it.

b. Song & Dance

Whether you picked your dance partner yourself, or were compelled to dance with your partner thanks to the Lock Box, the dance floor is ready for you. The music is enchanted, to provide a feeling of calm, relaxation, and joy. Characters will feel at ease, and even those who may not typically dance will want to get out on the dance floor.

Thanks to the talents of several Mirrorbound and collected records you'll have a variety of music all through the night. While much of it is upbeat, as it is encouraging individuals to dance. Whatever your mood, you will find a song that you'd love to dance to, as long as you want to dance.

IV. Gaming

Throughout the venue, there are a variety of gaming tables. There's poker tables with a dealer available so that you can play a game, place a bet - maybe you'll lose some cunes, maybe you'll win big. That's all up to how good you play the game. Note: Dealers (and the party host) are not responsible for any losses that occur when gambling. Play responsibly (or not).

There's also some pool tables available to those who wish to play. These table are open to anyone, and they are free to play. There's only a couple of tables available; however, they are scattered throughout the venue.

Set up near the bar are three long tables with only an array of cups and a printed set of rules for a game that some may recognize as none other than something very closely to beer pong. In place of the ping-pong balls there's a small, plastic coin that is used. Have fun drinking with friends while playing a game. What's not to love?

Are you looking to play a game in a quieter space? Down one of the hallways there's a couple of game rooms where you can not only find decks of cards and a pool table, but also a variety of popular party games such as charades. You'll also be able to find a room for those who want to settle in for a game of chess or checkers.

V. Late Night

The lights dim, just a bit more as it starts to turn into a late night, though there doesn't seem to be any sign that the party is ending. Small, glowing trinkets are brought out when the party seems like it should otherwise be dying down. These trinkets are - of course, to your taste, whether it's a bracelet, a ring, a necklace, or just simple something small that almost resembles a wand. This will glow up to a month, so you should like what you pick: whether it is for for you or is to act as a gift for someone of your choosing.

The music is meant now to entice you to go a little wilder than they may have been earlier in the evening. Most of the food has been replaced and only small, quick snacks have been brought out for those who were still wanting something a bit to eat. Alcohol is still readily available to each and every person who is able to legally drink, of course.

You're welcome to - quite literally - dance until the sun rises or until you just can't stay awake any longer.

Note: Please see the questions thread if you have any for me - don't be afraid to ask. Please assume all characters received fliers this year, and anyone who would have wanted to work would have had the opportunity to help setup. As there are a variety of performers through the night, I did not note any specific ones and will leave that up to the performers discretion.

Please place any warnings, including 18+ content, in the subject line! Thank you!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ Caster had heard about the masquerade year before. It has been quite an event, one he in the end didn't get to attend. Briefly, he wonders why— but doesn't spend a long time ruminating on that question. A lot had happened last year, and besides... what's in the past, is in the past. It's only present that matters. The part where he is just a capricious spirit, doing as he pleases has not gone away, even with becoming flesh and bone for so long.

And in the present, the drive to join in the festivities was too hard. The mask he chose at the door is a humble one, branches of a tree looking a bit like horns— his face is not hidden at all but the enchantment works... perfectly in tandem with what he prepared instead. Instead of mask, his face is covered in a gradient of dark paint, lightening towards his chin. Covered in bright, shining markings and lines. Even without the enchantments present, he didn't look like himself.

It's a curious experience, not being able to tell whether he knows who is talking with. Whether they are friend or stranger— when mischief and recklessness register in the general feeling, he doesn't consider if it's his own or coming from the Bond. Perhaps he should, because then there is an invitation coming from no one else but Yona herself— she must have came with her own mask, hence do not possess the identity masking enchantment—

And now it's turn for his own mischievousness to truly spark. ]

Surely not— [ He answers with a wide smile, the sharp points of his incisors on display— and he takes a step forward, taking the hand of the Yona's into his own, while his other hooks around her waist and boldly brings her close to his body. ] They are about to start another song, princess.

Edited 2020-11-08 20:10 (UTC)

[ Her breath hitches in a soft gasp as she's abruptly pulled close to this stranger - she'd been certain she hadn't recognized his features, but then again the enchanted masks were making that complicated tonight.

Since she wasn't wearing one herself, her unknown partner clearly didn't have the same difficulty. Her head tips back to study him from behind her dragon mask, violet eyes a little wide and her cheeks flushed from both alcohol and the dancing she's been doing. And perhaps more? Her gown whispers around her slim form as it settles once more from the abrupt movement he'd greeted her with.

Still, it's her title that stands out the most. There's only a handful of people in this city that would know to call her that. Meaning whoever this was, he knew her better than most. ]

Well, now you just have me at a disadvantage. That's not fair.

[ There's a slight pout in her voice, playful, as she peers up at him through dark lashes, playing coy. ]

'tis cannot be, I always play fair—

[ The amusement in his voice is palatable. He's glad that the usage of her title clued her in they know each other, otherwise, he would really felt like having an unfair advantage. But this way, this way it's a game to play.

A riddle to solve, to get out of the fairy circle— ]

But my lady, isn't this kind of mystery part of the rules of this night? Therefore I challenge your claim about fairness— I give you two guesses of who I am before I reveal myself to you.

[ Gently he pulls her, leads to the dancing space. Comfortable with their closeness, nose brushing her the softness of her hair. Close but trying to not cross the line. Now if only excitement across their Bond would not threaten to betray him— he's not that good in keeping the separation well. ]

[ He's also really not good at being subtle.

As he draws her out on the dance floor, still wrapped up in his arms, she gives a soft, musical laugh and presses closer. Arms lift as her hands twine behind his neck, fingers tangling in the hair she finds hidden behind his mask. A flush dances across her cheeks when he leans in against her, face whispering against her hair.

For him to take such liberties gives him away in itself, she thinks, as does his little riddle. So with a mischievousness in her gaze, she meets his magicked eyes behind the mask. ]

Do you think I would need two guesses, magic or not?

[ Magic, like electricity, thrums down his neck, where here fingers touch. It's like an unstoppable, uncontrollable force. Rich, and bountiful energy everywhere around them. All the enchanted tattooed and paintings going down his face, neck, and body, light up in reaction to their mana cycling freely between them. ]

I trust you'll get it in one. [ Subtle is not part of his name indeed, but in all honesty, he is curious how far the enchantment goes. ] But giving less than two chances would be cruel and, mmm— unfair.

[ The music start, slow but encompassing, and so their bodies move, and so he takes the lead. His muses aloud, taking on the cadence of the song ]

Can a princess break the spell? Uncover the true name? What then—?

She can, if he's trusted her with his true name.

[ Her voice is soft as she keeps hold of his gaze, letting him lead into the steps of this dance. She follows his movements - this isn't the sort of dance she's learned, but she thinks she can follow his lead. He's always been so patient in teaching her, after all. ]

Something I've felt honored by from the moment you offered it to me. Cú.

[ Caster smiles, his eyes sparkling with joy that also thrums on their Bond as he twirls her around. It's a relief that she recognizes him, even if he wasn't doubting for a moment. Truth to be told, the elegant dances with complicated steps aren't what he remembers either— it's all learned here, and a lot of it is improvisation. Just like on grass, at the roaring fire of old, it's the closeness and the bond (also Bond) of the dancers that matters more than the correctness of the steps. ]

And so the spell is broken, and I am free— [ Figuratively, maybe. Theatrics, mostly ] I've been waiting for this dance the whole night. It's almost everything I ever wanted.

[ This whole night is like seeing her through different eyes, her whole outfit accentuating her feminine charm. Colors contrasting and intertwining, the sheer fabric caressing her skin. While the difference may be subtle it is there, in the way she holds herself— ]

Almost everything?

[ She picks up on that phrasing, even as she smiles up into his masked face. It hasn't broken the enchantment on it, but she knows he hides under it. She doesn't mine. Her fingers tease through his hair at the nape of his neck, however, the feeling familiar against her fingertips. ]

And what is it you're still missing?

[ It might be a gamble, but there is confidence, and longing that he felt across the Bond, combined with a certain kind of determination. It's almost as if it has been a long way coming— and dance seems like a perfect arena for such a thing.

Cú was slow to lean in closer, locking their eyes together. No mask or enchantment obscuring the intent in the deliberate gesture. Never to be one to put up walls, his own warm affection, and longing, on display across their link, in the furiously burning magic. One breath of pause, two seconds maybe, and he finalizes his wordless answer, by pressing his lips to hers. ]

[ SHe's caught off-guard by the sudden rush of emotions he lets slide through their Bond. His presence has become such a constant thing, a warm hum at the back of her mind, that to have it opened and focused entirely on her takes her breath away. Her pulse flutters wildly for a moment as she stares back up at him, holding that intent gaze, not even sure when the enchantment on his mask seems to have vanished, letting her see the features of the man she was dancing with.

He hovers there, and she holds her breath, as if the very world around them is frozen in place as well. And then he closes the distance and she feels the warm press of his lips against her own. Her breath hitches, dark lashes fluttering over her gaze for a moment, before she pushes back, wanting to meet him halfway, her lips parted slightly against his own as she kisses him. ]

[ The time could have stood still for them right there. A storm of emotions both his own and hers threatening to overwhelm. Cú holds her close, finally letting go— treasuring his Bonded to the fullest he's capable in. Love and affection should be given freely, once they're accepted.

His hand splayed on her back, sliding upwards slowly. Mapping the elegant line of her spine, until it rests gently on the column of her neck, as he continues tasting their kiss. ]

[ She makes a soft sound into that kiss as his fingers slide up her spine, coming to rest at her neck. Since he's holding nothing back, she tries to match that, too. Wanting to be honest with him. She lets it flow back through the Bond they share - warm and affectionate. A little nervous. And yet very hopeful.

Her arms had already been around his shoulders but now she presses a little closer, her hand moving to mimic his, her fingers threaded in his hair as she tugs him down closer to her. ]

[ The kiss turning into... quite much more than what he expected it to. There was always a risk of having his advances refused. That's what for the bit of a pause was for, before he let their lips crash— an opening for Yona to back off. He'd laugh it off playfully, and never bring again. Not letting his feelings to be a problem between them.

But it turned out to not be just accepted, but welcome with fiercest of affection that he's honoured to bear.

Thing is turning a little heated, a soft kiss that could end quickly as a clear message of intent, turning into pouring all the tension, and all the want into the act, filtered across the Bond. He cradles the smaller Witch into his embrace, hand sliding down her buttock to her thigh— lifting it up gently to his as the music and the dance raises to the crescendo, to the grand finale — and them, interwined. ]

[ Yona never does things halfway. Once she commits herself to a direction, a decision, she often goes in with everything she has. It seems this time is no exception to that either. Even if she does make a startled noise when his hand slides down her backside and pulls her even closer until her leg can only twine around his own, needing it for balance. Even though she knows his hands on her would never let her fall.

The music crests its wave and the dance comes to an end and she actually just remains frozen there, held against him, her violet eyes wide and searching his face. She's a little breathless, and she takes a moment to lick her lips before speaking. ]

I... I've certainly never danced that dance before.

[ ...In more ways than one. ]

[ The music ending is its own way of taking them back to the earth. It didn't shake, nothing had ended, and Cú responds by gently letting her leg back onto the ground. When he frees that hand, it's only to slide off the enchanted adornment off his head. ]

Ah, I am honoured that I was allowed to show you the steps— [ He whispers in hushed a tone as if he was sharing a great secret. His other hand still rests on her waist, keeping them close. Warm. ]

[ Her cheeks are flushed with awareness, but she just gives him a small, hopeful smile and searches his face, now that that blasted mask is gone.

Reaching up, she cups a hand against his cheek, letting her warm gaze roam over his features. ]

Ahh. There you are.

[ Instantly, he covers her hand with his, keeping it there. Trapping in the softest of prisons. ]

And I shall go nowhere else for the rest of the night. [ Unless Yona wants him to. Or something unexpected happens— may neither of these come true. ] Fancy another dance, or would you want to sit down somewhere with a drink.

[ To catch a breath. Or just more privacy than the ballroom offers. Not like anyone is paying attention to them, he thinks. He's sure not paying attention to anyone else ]

[ She looks flustered but immensely pleased by his vow, enjoying the warmth of his hand caught over hers. This all still feels dizzy and exhilarating. ]

A drink might be nice.

[ Because yes, she sounds a little breathless. Although that's probably not from just the dancing. ]

[ Cú takes them on a stroll, near one of the tables with drinks and refreshments. The rich variety makes it a little hard to pick one thing at first— but Caster opts for something chilled. ]

Sweet or sour? [ He asks, ready to offer a recommendation. Then there's only a seating to be found. ]

[ She sticks close to his side, one arm tucked in his as she lets him look and browse. Most of these are not even things she recognizes, so she's actually fairly relieved to let him pick for her. ]

Mmm.... sweet, I think.

Hmmm— [ There's a moment of considering the options, and he opts for a violet drink, with a bit of enchanted glow to it. ] It's based on sweet wine, but with a dash of local fruit and a bit of enchanted spice. I think it's usually called Fairy Dust.

[ He takes the glass and hands it to her for closer inspection. Leaning in closer he asks a question in a much quieter tone ]

Shall we take a table, or a room?

[ The drink he hands her is beautiful - and... glowing? Is it supposed to do that? But she just smiles and accepts it, because what he describes does sound good, and honestly, if she's decided to be daring tonight, she might as well go all the way.

But then he's murmuring against her ear and her breath hitches again, glancing up to meet his gaze. ]

Do you have a preference?

[ Yes.

Yes, he does.

Few last months focused a lot on closing the distance between them, but tonight— tonight was special in the terms of a leap forward. If not for Yona already being so daring tonight, he'd probably not cross any further. But the Bond they shared was giving him an answer. ]

A room, should we find one free still. [ He takes a sip, and gestures towards the entrance to the ballroom ] There's a corridor outside, with several doors just waiting...

[ She takes a tentative sip of the drink he'd handed her as well, finding it sweet and fruity, the enchantment in it tingling against her tongue.

But there's something in his expression that has her stepping close once more as she nods in agreement. ]

Then let's go see what we can find? I'll follow you.

[ Because, really, for the most part, she'd been content to do that from day one. ]

[ Cú doesn't bother with attempting to figure out the enchantment in the drink— going with the flow. Focusing on the warmth thrumming between them. It's so easy to get lost in it, that he doesn't register— how they do get to the room, find an empty one— until they slip in and the door close behind them, marking it for anyone outside as "taken".

It's comfortable and cozy, elegant sure. Truth to be told, he's hardly paying attention to the decor. ]

Now then— [ For as close as they are, he clinks their glasses, his halfway empty. The question is loaded with the flirtous overtone ] Think you would let me taste that drink of yours?

By The Glow Of The Moon

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