middaeg | MASQUERADE: Noveur 8

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!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Oh dear...

[The sight of Everett clearly testing the upper boundaries of his limits draws a soft giggle out of Towa.

While she's all about everyone having fun tonight, she'd hate to see anything bad come of it for her dear friend. So she decides now might be a good time to keep him company. There's not nearly as much of it, but she has her own drink she's been steadily working on.]

Heehee... your current self really knows how to party. Mind if I join you for a bit?

[She doesn't have to make him stop-- but she can certainly make sure he stays safe by watching over him.]

Lovely Towa! Towa, my dear, have I told you yet how stunning you are? That dress is the perfect fit for your natural beauty. [He has. He has definitely wandered up to her earlier in the evening to give her compliments like this. To his credit, though he can't seem to remember the last compliment, they are unique each time.

He offers the flash to splash into her drink, as if that's good manners]

And please, please join me! Did you need that a bit stronger?

Oh you-- [It's impressive how well he cordinates even forgotten compliments. She can't help but giggle, a flustered shade of pink on her cheeks.] That devilish charm of yours suits you. Almost a little too well. Someone so dashing and handsome should be a little more careful with such sweet words.

[Her tone is completely that of lighthearted teasing-- even if there's a seed of truth to be found in it. She knows him well enough to know that his flattery would be nothing if not genuine.]

Maybe a little wouldn't hurt.

[--the absolute wrong answer.]

I'm not a scoundrel, it's just a suit that fits me. [Everett jokes, winking to her with all that devilish charm on display. He soaks up any and all compliments, himself, basking like a snake in the sunlight of praise. His vanity is unabashed.

He'll tip some of the whiskey into her glass, just a single shot worth, not wanting to tank her. She's rather small, Everett's still mildly sensible, even this wasted]

No harm at all, if you are enjoying yourself!

I can't argue with that. I wouldn't mind having a bit of confidence like that myself.

[She has a number of friends like this, but she's never been so blessed herself.]

I am having a lovely time though.

No shame in being humble! Gives, gives me all the more opportunity to compliment you! [Sure, Everett, that's how it works? He doesn't want to give her some condescending advice to just be more confident, it's not something so easily sparked.

He takes another swig of his flask before putting it away. A clap of his hands before offering both to her]

Would you like to dance? Go for a walk through the garden? 'm all yours, dear Towa!

Heehee... It means more, I think, coming from someone else anyway.

[Certainly more than it does when she tries to tell herself anyway.

But goodness. Too many guys teasing her, saying they're all hers tonight. How is her poor little heart supposed to handle all this?]

In that case... How about we take a little walk while we finish our drinks? I'll be sure to take you up on that dance later, though.

To the gardens, then, I've hardly gotten to look about them! [He's a faun, he'll be just as happy outside in the garden as he is in the thick of the celebrations. There's really no losing, for him. Having a woman as lovely as Towa as his company makes it all the better.

He'll link their arms and hold her in close to his side. Pleasantly warm and together, walking easily in time to the outside. He takes in a deep breath of the fresh air]

A heavenly evening, truly. And an angel on one arm, even! I must have died peacefully. [grim, Everett, grim to say so pleased]

In that case, you really must. They're quite lovely.

[She holds onto his arm, fitting in nicely against his side; her other hand reaching over to sit nicely on his forearm. It's a bit chilly, so the closeness is nice-- Everett is as warm as his personality is charming.]

Oh, I wouldn't allow you to die just for the sake of my company. It's not a stretch to say you've given me plenty of time to fall for you.

[Saved, if only by a weak (but cute) joke.]

[Oh no, that cute joke was unfair! Everett laughs, nearly flustered sounding, in his surprise. Adorable, really, as Towa always was.

He squeezes her arm just a bit closer to himself, leaning down to muffle some laughter into her hair, before kissing the top of her head with utmost affection]

Oh no! An angel fallen for my devilish charms? I suppose... we will have only each other to worship, then!

[Towa comfortably leans in as he pulls her closer, as the soft breathy laugh on her head and kiss brings a flustered smile to her face.]

Teehee... even if I'd wanted to, I couldn't have resisted very long. I can't think of many who wouldn't be delighted to have the pleasure of stealing away your attention.

[This kind of flirtatious teasing is easier on a night like tonight, even though it's newer to her. It's hard not to enjoy it.]

But I'll have no regrets, if I'll have you to stay by my side.

Fallen and yet! I don't remember catching you! Tsk, tsk, that would make me very unchivalrous, indeed. How could I make that up to you... [he hems and haws with exaggeration, before dipping both arms down around her.

And lifting her right up into his arms. An actual, pleasant, princess carry. Most anybody else he went around lifting up tonight got thrown unceremoniously over his shoulder, like a sack of potatoes. Towa really getting the special treatment!]

Got it! Sweeping you off your feet!

[Ever the gentleman, even totally tanked, Everett is sure he skirt is brushed out dignified and modest.]

[It is not an unfamiliar sensation, but one she’s always caught off guard by. With the added buzz of the alcohol, it’s a floating feeling, that leave her giggling and snuggling into his arms; her own wrapping themselves around his neck. It’s a very nice, dreamlike feeling.]

If you’re going to hold me this sweetly, I have no choice— my heart has already forgiven everything.

[She who usually overthinks everything— right now she isn’t having that problem at all. It’s so easy to forget everything else and focus on just the two of them, having such a very lovely moment. The kind that makes a girl’s heart race.]

MASQUERADE: Noveur 8

IV

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