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

[selfishwish]

Oh, I know Sokie! Not the other two--I don't think I know any elves--but she's pretty great! You should make friends with her for sure.

[The Rabbit looks like he intends to hop upright in his seat in the excitement of realizing he actually recognizes one of Viren's almost-friends, but now that he's sat down the world feels a little more off-kilter.

His limbs are heavier, too, and the cool wood of the bench underneath him is very nice, so instead he just fidgets and stretches his arms out overhead before slumping down again, turning his head to grin over at the dragon.]

'Cause of...work and stuff?

Mm, I think adults just get bad at making friends, too! It's prob'ly harder when you have family and a job and everything you know you have to worry about already...

But here you kind of have to, or it'd be way too lonely!

[bloodwit]

[ viren doesn't bother to hide the skepticism that meets momiji's praise of sokie, but it's not an issue he presses. ]

"Work and stuff," yes. A Kingdom to lead, children to guide, a war to fight. Obligation, sacrifice that comes with duty.

[ those sorts of things, he guesses, though he could likely expound at length.

viren adjusts himself in his seat, smoothing out the cuffs to the shirt as momiji fidgets. he peers up at him. and now it's with pure curiosity, as he is aware he's speaking with an inebriated teenager: ]

Do you think so? That any loneliness would be more acute here?

[selfishwish]

Wait, are you the king, back home? I thought you were "Lord Viren." Is that the same thing?

[He is actually, honest, not trying to be a pain about this! If anything, he sounds a little impressed by the prospect that Viren is an even fancier wizard-guy than he'd previously assumed--but, also, it's hard to keep track of all the cultural intricacies of other people's worlds even when his head's not swimming quite as much at his is at this point.

And as for that next question...Momiji falls silent for a moment, as if having to put actual effort into considering it.]

...it is, right? You have to miss everyone here.

Even if you wouldn't see them back home, they're still farther away.

[Oh no, that's an unpleasant thought! He doesn't like the way it pops the bubble of alcohol-padded, warmer ones he was dwelling on before at all. It's a little like someone setting a bowling ball down on your chest all of a sudden? Not great!]

[bloodwit]

[ sry to burst your drunken happiness bubble, kiddo ]

"Lord" is my title. [ mm.......... wow, it hits him how easily he could lie about that. he doesn't. ] But my former King was murdered, and his children kidnapped by the enemy. As you may imagine, that leaves much work to be done.

[ which -- perhaps does nothing to clear that one up, but viren always liked to see himself as something like co-king. does he have a divine right to the throne? ]


[ absolutely not. ]

[ for now, he shuffles his coat over his shoulders. what momiji says isn't.. inaccurate. ]

I suppose that's not wrong, even if the loneliness may feel the same. When we first arrive, we have no one here. We cannot communicate with them, nor them with us... We must begin anew.

[selfishwish]

[He was really enjoying that bubble! And almost visibly tries to hang onto it, leaning his head back and closing his eyes with a deep breath out, as if trying to expel or ignore any heavier thoughts.

Also, that makes it sound like Viren is, like...the grand vizier? Or the regent or whatever you call it? The guy who's in charge, but it's kinda shady why he's in charge, and if it were a fairy tale he'd probably be the mean uncle or something cast against the rightful heir's plucky hero.

Somehow, this doesn't sound like an assessment the dragon would appreciate, though. And, anyway, his brain's already supplying a concern that feels equally touchy:]

...you said you had kids, too, right? Do you miss them a lot?

[Obviously, his tone says, but it's an important question!]

1/2

[bloodwit]

[ it's evident that the question surprises viren, the nature of it yanking him from his (admittedly, also melancholy) thoughts. the tone the rabbit uses is perplexing, because it should be obvious, yes, but it also grounds viren in that. ]

Of course. It's only natural that a father would miss his children.

[ he leans his head back, then, lifting his eyes to the stars above. he does wonder.. how they're getting along. so he expounds, ]

It may be dangerous there -- but I am confident that they will be all right, carry out their duties faithfully. [..] As much as I do miss them, it would be unkind to wish their presences here.

[bloodwit]

[ he's thoughtful another moment; contented as he can be brood from time to time, he can at least try to divert the conversation to a lighter topic. ]

I have two children: A daughter, Claudia -- sixteen. And a son, who's...

[ mmm..





ah, shit. however old soren is. ]

[ time to err, try to save that: ]

... a few years her senior. [ casting a glance to momiji. ] They may be both a little older than you, yes-?

[selfishwish]

I don't think people back home notice? Um, that we're missing. I dunno if the magic here makes time stop or what, but Kyo says he was here for months before me, and I'd just seen him before--

Umm. [A pause, a blink, and a bleary shrug.]

So, I bet they're safe still, is what I mean.

[Even if that's not the clearest explanation. He doesn't know if they have children's literature in Viren's world, though, so he can't just use the shorthand he's been thinking of it in--"magic wardrobe rules." Which would absolutely explain everything.

And then there's a long, surprised stare at the falter in Viren's voice as he very visibly tries to remember how old his eldest is. It's awkward enough that he'd try to pretend that he hadn't noticed, normally, but in his current state there's no disguising the way he boggles or the downcast look that follows, which is more disappointed than anything else.

Maybe it was just almost the other kid's birthday back home, though? Maybe.]

A little bit. I'm fifteen-and-a-half.

[bloodwit]

[ viren's eyes widen as momiji elaborates, bringing a hand up to stroke at his beard. his gaze lowers again, arms to fold across his chest as he parses through that: ]

... I had heard of something similar, with people leaving, only to pick up from where they had remembered without time having evidently passed. [ his eyebrows raise. to hear it confirmed in person, though, is a relief. his mind is slow to trust it, and it may sink in slowly, but: ] If that is true, then perhaps not all is yet lost.

[ he hopes that to be the case -- it would be a disaster, otherwise. he would try to cling to that hope. ]

[ the look that receives isn't missed; he vividly recalls the first time he'd forgotten his son's birthday, the crushing disappointment -- granted, soren had been, logically, quite a bit more vocally upset than momiji is right now. ]

—Eighteen. He's eighteen. [ he finishes, lamely, as that's properly recalled. his eyebrows shoot up as momiji shares. honestly, he thought him like... eleven, but maybe it's that when you're as old as he is, suddenly all teenagers seem like infants: ] Do you hear often, that you look a bit younger than you are?

[selfishwish]

Oh. [At least he remembered eventually!] Are they both wizards like you?

[He's doing an admirable job of keeping upright and not slurring his words too much, despite the blatantly woozy way he blinks back at Viren now, when he bothers to raise his head from his sprawled-back position at all. But tipsiness has definitely wiped out whatever filter for nosy questions he had to start with!

And as for Viren's question...]

Noooo. [He tries to play innocent, but his "Who, me?" smile curls up into a stupid, smarmy smirk despite himself. Only from literally everyone, Viren.] Why?

[bloodwit]

Claudia is a mage, yes. She's skilled in the practice - perhaps a few years ahead of what would be her typical age group, I would imagine.

[ spoken with neutrality.

at momiji's response, though, he gets a bit of a blank stare, an eyebrow slowly inching upward. viren leans back in his seat. ]

Because you do. And you're slightly more of an irritant this evening. [ alas, there's no bite to his tone; it's more of a verbal poke back. because don't think he missed that earlier comment, kyo teaches punching. ] I can't tell, whether it's the alcohol, or some new puca instincts.

[ if puca instincts now include 'sassiness.' ]

[selfishwish]

[Hm, so does that mean that Viren's son isn't a mage? Momiji ponders this for longer than is strictly polite, eyes drooping shut, then decides against asking. He's not drunk enough to miss that Viren still hasn't used the older boy's name. Presumably he remembers that...but it still smells enough like Bad Family Stuff to keep him from digging.

Instead, he sinks down a little further on the bench, throwing back a soft but definite pout.]

...dunno. Maybe both!

I've only had a little before--I bet that was a puca thing.

[That is, the part where he decided it a was good idea to end at least veering towards sloshed at a very public party, because tricking the bartender sounded like too much fun. It's begun to lose just a bit of its rosy attraction now the caper's done and he's away from the masquerade's lights and noise.]

Monster instincts're dumb.

[bloodwit]

[ viren hasn't the faintest idea as to the perplexity he's inflicted upon this poor teenager. his tail, having curled at the ground, gives a little flick at its end. he makes a noise of understanding, instincts being dumb indeed. ]

Tricking someone into giving you more to drink, I'm presuming.

[ that's how he thinks he means -- a sober mind is a beautiful thing. ]

I won't say that I'm fortunate, having only experienced more physical ... instincts. [ aka the cold is annoying, water is wet, etcetc. ] But I don't particularly envy you, no.