MASQUERADE: Noveur 8

[rightfoot]

WELCOME TO THE MASQUERADE

I. Arrival

The event starts mid-evening, Noveur 8, 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 deep blue 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 large 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, deep blue, and dark purple. 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 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.

There some seating nearer to the walls without tables, as well, for those who maybe wish to take a moment to themselves or need a few seconds to relax. There's also some standing room for those who maybe are there more to socialize and enjoy the company of others, rather than dancing.

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 feature 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.

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.

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 drawn together. 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 softly 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 talent of both Elliot and Wataru on their violins, as well as people from within the city to provide the music.

There's a variety of music to play through the night. Most of the music is upbeat through the night, encouraging you to grab a partner and dance. Songs like waltzes are the most prominently played, as they're perfect for beginners and experienced dancers alike. And then, from there, there's some slower paced, romantic songs - though they are less frequent. Whenever those play, find someone you want to get close to and take a chance to dance and maybe even have a quiet conversation.

Whatever your mood, you will find a song that you'd love to dance to, as long as you want to dance.

IV. 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 hit me up if you have any questions; ICly: This takes place on the 8th. Putting this up early is to help ensure everyone has a chance to enjoy themselves! And, if your threads need any warnings of any sort, please add them as you go! ♥ Thank you all!

Comments

Sheva Alomar | OTA | Turnskin (lion)

[partnerinheels]

[After everything that’s been going on the last couple months, Sheva finds the thought of a masquerade both daunting and a welcome distraction. Not to mention it’s a chance to dress elegantly, drink, and dance as though she hadn’t tried to mindlessly murder people thanks to a fog.

The enchanted mask is quite helpful, and she decides to keep it on and make an intrigue of it.]

i | text — Existing CR & misfires.

Come find me. ;D

ii | fresh air

[Throughout the night, Sheva takes leave of the excitement and noise to step outside and breathe free, often with an amber colored drink in her hand. The later into the night it becomes, the more the libations have settled through her, adding a strange fluidity to her movements.

Both the fountain and the stars find her attention, the water and endless beauty of the expansive sky easy escapes from dark thoughts or anxiety. In theory, at least. Startle her at a risk.]

iii | snacc & dance

What do you think that is, exactly? [She periodically asks of a stranger, motioning to a bite of food that’s not familiar to her. Perhaps it’s something local?] Do you think they have magic in them?

[When she’s not refilling her drink or refueling herself with various fruits and hors d'oeuvres, the young lioness dances. There’s no shame in dancing by herself, moving to the music as though it coursed through her. There are times where her eyes close and she just allows the song to guide her. Other times, she catches the eyes of another while dancing, playing an enticing game of chicken that can easily become silly or a little more sultry.

Maybe she’ll even take a chance and ask for a dance directly? As a note, she does put her name in the lock box because why not?]

iv | wildcard

[ooc: Have an idea for another sort of thread? Feel free to PM or message me on Plurk (schist) to discuss.]

iii

[kivatteru]

No, I don't think so?

[ It's a strange question that still convinces Wataru he should now question whether the half of a cupcake in his hand is actually not what he thought it was, or he's being a bit paranoid. He makes a face at it. ]

It looks just like a normal cupcake to me.

[partnerinheels]

[Still, she squints at it dubiously as she imagines what weird spells might be baked into the little cake. If they can play magic dance matchmaker by writing a name, who knows what witches can do with the food.

Eventually, she heaves a sigh and sips her drink.]

I suppose no one is acting weirder than usual yet.

[Which means they're safe?]

How's it taste?

[Please be the guinea pig thank you very much.]

[kivatteru]

[ Unless the effect is delayed on purpose, the cupcake in his hand tastes exactly like cupcake. Besides, he doubts Louis would allow any enchanted food without a warning since it's his party.

Either way, he'll indulge her and take another small bite, thinking deep about the flavor spreading over his palate. ]

It's good. This one has chocolate and almond. There are other flavors available if you'd like a try.

[partnerinheels]

[Look, she doesn't know Louis personally, and there's an even healthier amount of unease and distrust with strangers and magic both after the incident of the mist. She relaxes visibly when there, as he predicted, doesn't seem to be any adverse reaction, and that's enough to satiate her caution at this time. That and the fact that no one else has seemingly shown any side effects themselves. Her eyes say a quiet thank you for indulging her unspoken request.

At the mention of the flavor, she hums softly in appreciation while scanning the other options. In the end, she chooses one that looks like a combination of chocolate and perhaps some red fruit, strawberries she thinks.]

Everything looks delicious, and I'm tempted to try one of everything. [But for now, she settles for a bite of her chosen treat, letting slip a happy rumble of a noise. Not quite purring, but close enough.] Chocolate strawberry.

[kivatteru]

[ Not having to worry about the possibility of enchanted food gives Wataru his focus back on what's going on with his palate, enjoying his cupcake once more. He finishes it with one last bite and looks over at the other choices available, wriggling his fingers in subconscious trepidation. ]

All the food here looks delicious. [ He smiles, picking a red cupcake with whipped cream on top. Red velvet cupcake. ] The color of this one looks like that of blood.

[ A single bite, and then he snorts with amusement. ]

But it doesn't taste like one at all.

they snacc

[enkidoh]

[When Enkidu hears a voice next to them they are just busy with emptying their third mug of beer. It is good beer. The type of beer that reminds them of Uruk. And they've been in a very nostalgic mood lately.]

Hmm? [They turn to look at the food. It is not familiar to them either.] Should I try? Or perhaps we can try together. [And without any further ado they scoop two bits from a plate.] Here.

[partnerinheels]

[Beer usually falls as a second choice to Sheva, if only because liquor just tastes better, richer in a way that doesn't feel as though it's clinging to her ribs too much. Still, to each their own.

She's about to protest when they up and volunteer the BSAA agent to eat the suspect food, but since the action doesn't seem out of malice, she merely straightens her features to something more amicable and nods.]

I worry that with all that's happened here, someone may find fun in adding magic to the food. People often spike the punch at these sorts of parties for a laugh.

[enkidoh]

I do not think that the purpose of this feast is to make people worry. [They've experienced it as absolutely fun. They've danced and laughed. For once they managed to forget about their poor performance as a witch and bonds and other difficult things.]

Should we eat one at the same time? Or do you want me to eat it first? [Oh but...!] We can also change these for those! [They point at something sweet and chocolate-like.]

[partnerinheels]

Probably not. [Which is why she's actually dressed up and participating more so as a guest than her anxiety and suspicion might be encouraging. The other person has a point, and she sighs softly. Still, she doesn't make an effort to taste the treat, and she was hoping to not make it a big thing by timing her taste without announcement.

It doesn't pan out that way.]

You should try it first. [Sheva says as though she's passing on an honorable duty.]

[enkidoh]

[Without any further ado Enkidu shoves the entire eclair inside their mouth, chewing thoughtfully. It tastes sweet and creamy and oh, they can't help uttering an excited sound.]

Hmmm!

[With their mouth still full they point at the other eclairs, wanting to get the point across that it is safe to eat them. In fact, it is a wonderful, creamy experience.]

iii

[freeing]

[ These damn mysterious masks do her no benefit. Even people who have struck up conversation, she was a fool on deducing their identity. Now, she hears a more drum-centric beat. One with heavy, quick tempos that remind her of her wedding day.

Dany was easy to spot, her dress and mask were made for her from a local tailor in exchange for apprenticeship for a season. Most of her silver-gold hair was tugged up into bundles of braids – the children monsters she had helped since they arrived in Aefenglom were quite fond of combing through and braiding her hair. Of course she pays them to do so with a few warm meals.

She does not partake, her drink clutched a bit tighter between her fingers and dismissing a few select men who dare approach her to ask.

But, how could she ignore someone who seems to be lost in the music? Their eyes meet. ]

[partnerinheels]

[Even with the magic shrouding her, it's clear to see that her choice of dress marries well against her skin tone, a choice that both women seem to have made when selecting their looks for the evening. Dany's dress suits her perfectly, and even without the telltale dragon moniker and silver hair, Sheva would have put money on her when betting the identity behind the mask.

The lioness is indeed lost in the music, enjoying herself regardless of whether or not she has a dance partner, but catching the other's eyes lights a smile across her features even with the magic hiding her own identity. It's clear that there's fond recognition, and she motions for the other woman to join her.]

[freeing]

[ They are left in each other's company. As if the rest of the dance floor melts away and their attention too fierce for any mere human to garner. Beasts, creatures — whatever part of them were feral makes this a hunt in a sense.

It was almost as if the woman was dancing specifically for her. Dany sips her drink and sips upon it, debating on such an act. It was not so simple.

It takes a few moments of consideration to set her drink on the nearest serving tray and close the distance — still not daring to dance. ]

[partnerinheels]

[It feels so deeply right to be able to lose oneself in the music, to let the rest of this damned place bleed away for a time. Not from alcohol or drugs either. It's freeing, and there's only a handful of experiences that feel either better or close.

When her invitation is not quite accepted, nor actually declined, Sheva can't help but make a playful attempt at looking despondent for it. A few moments pass before she reaches up to push back the mask so that it sits in her hair more like a crown, revealing her identity with a devious smirk curling over her features.

She never stops dancing, though.]

[freeing]

[ There's a power in anonymity, one that frightens her a bit. She wonders of the whorehouses across Essos that were tantric and exotic for visitors — where they don masks and sample pleasures beyond their reach.

She's never experienced something so direct in this party. The dancing rushes around, the heat of it all even going as far as to warm the dragon herself up. Sheva offers her a relief with showing her features and there's a small smirk still on her face. Staying rooted into the ground does her no favor, she tries to avoid the passing people, but it was Sheva who still garners her attention.

With a bemused expression — she calls out as her feet finally lead her over. ]

Having fun, are we?

i

[anotheroldsoldier]

[Bucky isn't dolled up quite so fancy as others, but his blue suit is nice and it's clean and it's ironed, his hair is tied back in a small bun at the back of his neck, and he's added a little star pin to his lapel. His mask is a simple domino mask, black and closely resembling the one he's worn for decades - it's not enchanted, because he doesn't feel the need to be anonymous at a party he actually meant to attend, for fun.

When he gets the text, he glances down at his watch, and smiles wryly, tapping out a response before tucking it back into his pocket and scanning the crowd in the ballroom.]

Do I even get a hint?

[partnerinheels]

[Fancy is a relative term, and while she's taken the opportunity to dress to the elegant nines, that doesn't change the fact that he also cleans up quite nice.

She may have already caught sight of him once or twice to admire the view.

Currently, her shiny, golden self is maneuvering through guests and blending in as best she can while keeping a sly eye on her target.]

That's rich.

[anotheroldsoldier]

[No hint, apparently. He laughs quietly to himself and scans the crowd, taking in the mask styles and dresses more than anything - some are enchanted, some aren't, so it's impossible to know who is who because other features just sort of slip out of his head like water through his fingers.]

You know this game's rigged, right?

[partnerinheels]

Perhaps you're being dense.

[Sheva can't help but chuckle to herself at that truth, weaving her way closer and with a bit more obvious movement. The shimmer of gold more noticeable now.]

[anotheroldsoldier]

Never claimed I was clever. One more hint?

[Yeah that comment was kind of over his head. He's not stupid, but he's also not the brightest all the time. Comes from growing up a fighter instead of a scholar.]

ii

[fulgency]

[Ozymandias has been long-since accustomed to the marathon-like quality to events like this, having once spent a significant part of his life as the center of so many celebrations. But tonight? Tonight, he needs to pace himself a little. It's probably the most time he's spent around anyone in weeks. Thus, he takes his wine outside at several points for a little quiet and at least the illusion of some solitude.]

[He looks up from his drink at the sound of approaching footsteps. It becomes apparent that her mask is enchanted when nothing beyond her outfit and mask seems to stick in his mind and commit to both memory and conscious thought. Ozymandias, on the other hand, is easily recognizable. He's not wearing his mask currently and his suit remains entirely within his usual preferences.]

[Although Ozymandias smiles at her in acknowledgment when they meet eyes briefly, he leaves her be. It seems difficult to imagine someone dressed as stunningly as she is has a moment's amount of peace inside, and he doesn't seek to disrupt what she can find out here.]

[partnerinheels]

[While she intends to find crisp silence in the gardens, stumbling upon a known friend, despite what occurred during that damn mist, is a welcome surprise. Her identity shrouded, she wonders if the magic also hides her worry that Ozymandias might have some lingering ire regarding her display of feral aggression towards him. It's definitely a contributing factor to why she keeps the enchanted mask on when she approaches him after a few moments of consideration, coasting on the confidence that the anonymity provides for the moment.

Her smile is coy, perhaps a bit nervous as she closes the distance between them, speaking warmly when she's close enough for a conversational tone.] You're quite a sight this evening. [She finds it delightful that they've both chosen to dress in golden elegance, and a stranger might think believe they've done so on purpose. A happy coincidence.]

[fulgency]

[So, it's likely that he knows her. Or at least, that's the way it seems based on how she pays the compliment. The magic of her mask prevents him from connecting any dots though as to her actual identity, so he can't even really say that for sure. It seems just as possible and likely that she's a complete stranger using the mask as a means of speaking to him with that kind of familiarity.]

[Regardless, he doesn't mind the mystery all that much.]

The same could easily be said for you. I imagine you've turned your fair share of heads this evening.

[partnerinheels]

[She could be going through all the effort to convince him of a mutual familiarity, but honestly that's too much work at this moment. Sheva's actually, more or less, taking this as an opportunity to enjoy herself and perhaps even let loose with others, particularly with folks with which she already has a level of trust.

Ozy qualifies as one of those people.

At his indirect compliment, she lifts her arm and flourishes the dress smoothly as she takes a slow moving turn to show off just how stunning she appears draped in gold, holding a lingering look over her shoulder.]

As you know, I also look lovely without such fine dressing.