Community [Isekai Hell] February Event: Masquerade Ball

[Rev IX]

???

Spoiler: Face

The masked man noticed the pretty figure in a nice dress as he swirled his glass of wine, and taking a small sip. "The pleasure is all mine" he answered back. The lady seemed interested in him, which made an unseen smile appear on his face. "Why of course, I'd be..." The man behind the mask's voice trailed off when he noticed another gentleman approaching the two of them, catching a glimpse of what he displayed on his belt.

??? took another sip of his wine once the man begun to speak. Such a pretentious guy this one was, the masked man hated that kind of people. These kind of people should have been expected from such an event however, to his dismay. "Our conversation ends here, my lady. I wish you an entertaining night" he bowed slightly, tipping his hat as he did, and left the pretty lady and his bothersome new companion.

He finished his glass of wine on his way to getting another one. Restocked on the high quality booze, he headed for the balcony. Where he leaned on the railing, and admired the night sky, wondering if it was really worth it to come all the way here. With a heavy sigh, he sipped on his wine.

gmimperfecti Faynorae

 

[gmimperfecti]

Oh my!" They exclaimed, a smile in their voice, "How kind of you to say, I would be verily glad! Honestly, at first, I did not think of you as very approachable. However, I am elated to know that you think of me as such. Thank you, kindly." They responded, with a gentle tone, before clasping their hands together as a means to rest them.

Someone inclined his head, the white Guy Fawks mask tilting and he raised a single, black leather forefinger to the corner of the mask where the smiling black lips where. "Nothing would bring truth to the expression on this mask as for you to so grace me with your words." He gave a small bow of his head to give action to his words.

These kind of people should have been expected from such an event however, to his dismay. "Our conversation ends here, my lady. I wish you an entertaining night" he bowed slightly, tipping his hat as he did, and left the pretty lady and his bothersome new companion.

Someone watched the other man leave. In truth he'd been so enraptured by the mysterious girls presence he hadn't noticed the other man. Realizing he'd failed to notice someone in the shadows as it were if not in truth than in perception was quite shocking. And so, someone had nothing to say nor did the parting comments seem to invite further comment. He watched the departing rival? Such an odd idea to have crept into his head! A rival and he hadn't noticed it!!

"Considering one is interested, what thoughts would it be that you would wish to converse?" The maidenly figure stated,

"I would take such delight in the simplest of observations that I sudder to think upon more significant or intimate conversation although should the night meander in that direction I would be the first to follow!"

He paused reaching out not to touch but to suggest something still unspoken and unformed. It was an incomplete gesture whatever it might be, falling back towards his cloak and the belt for knives but never touching either.

"Would it be that perchance one would firstly like to indulge in each other?" The figure silently giggled, their tone only ever so slightly playful as brought their hand once more in front of where their mouth would be.

"Any indulgence you would offer would be like a drop of water upon the parched lips of a man too long in the desert. Indeed, I should be inclined to devour your every indulgence like a man eating the finest dessert." He touched his chin, tilting his head to inspect her body language, "That is if you would permit me to be so bold!"

He chuckled lightly, more throaty than he would have preferred. "But if that indulgence is a meditation upon love, life, and the forces of attraction I feel that just being near you would allow me to converse upon the subjects the whole night if not much longer!"

 

[Etymarchen]

Uasal
Location: Front Yard (at the fountain)

+ "Rose" +​

Spoiler

“Ah…how horrible of me…I’ve brought a beautiful angel to fall.”

Though she was completely soaked and wet with fountain water, ‘Rose’ would, for a moment, stare silently at the woman before her…allowing a bird’s call or two to pass through the gentle, if cold evening breeze before finally, she would respond, voice gentle, wispy like the gentle murmur of a dream…

“My apologies for the trouble…I confess that I am, indeed, quite hurt. You had fallen due to my lack of grace in your presence. It hurts me so to realize how terribly I’ve impacted you…but at the same time...your mature, gentle response to my accident has delighted me greatly. It makes me want to see you fall. So, tell me, Saintess Angel—“

Her lips would curl upwards as she would begin to lift to her feet, untangling them from the woman as her legs as her fingertips would glide along her long brown hair, brushing it gently to the side before she would angle herself upon her legs.

“…Who might be beneath that mask of yours? Won’t you tell me instead of your own pains—if there would be any? For what purpose does an Angel like you have in a banquet like this? I’ve become intrigued—so please, elaborate on yourself. I need to know about you, after all—”

Her skirt dampened further to her motions as she would gently pry off her heels.

And she would lift her fellow fountain-victim upwards, hands guided comfortably to support her by knee and shoulder as she would carry her upwards.

“It would make it easier to bring you to fall for me~”

 

[Orikanyo]

???

Spoiler: Images

Ugly mask



Clothes

Dah boi

"Ah screw it i'mma go see whats going on elsewhere..." the man scratched at his mask as he walked on, stealing a glass of something no doubt rare and expensive and downing it in one gulp like an absolute savage that his mask represented. He wandered about for abit stealing more and more drinks until he ended up outside, nearby the fountain area...

"Tsk... Guess thats that huh? Outside already... Thought thered be more to this place..." the man grumbled, very clearly dissappointed with the festivities....

Surely there was something to do! Maybe... Maybe somebody like him around? Gotta be a swordswoman or something around...

Yea... That'd be great...

He... left a few friends behind at the dojo... Wait he remembered them fully now... Didn't... Didn't Machiko ask him to come with her to something like this...? Was she... Asking... And Ariana too... She... She...


The memories flood back as the many times he'd been asked out and too dense to notice flood in to his mind... Oh god... Oh god he could just drown himself. The mental anguish sent him walking down the stairs to dunk his head in the water as he... Observed the situation going on there...

Etymarchen Uasal

"...Sup..." he said to the two very wet and... Close women currently in the fountain.

"...This a thing or...? Should I go? I mean I know therez this romance crap going on but didn't think he mean go straight at it in the waterworks yea know?

Far be it from me to stop two beauts doin their work in the water but that little angel baby statue is pissin on yea real fierce."

 

[StarPrincessVal]

????

Spoiler: Face Reveal

Mentions: Elvario Clyvelle
Languages: Common | <Beastial>

Spoiler: Enchanted Garden

​

She smiled up at her companion, though the mask hid it. "I would love it if you could guide me through the See, mmhhmm. Oh, but, we don't know who each otherrr are, mmhhmm. What if we were to agree to meet somewhere at a cerrrtain time on a cerrrtain day, hhmm? The rules of the game say nothing about making such <agreements>. Prrromises, mmhhmm." She liked the idea of seeing her companion again after the night had ended.

Just then they were approached by a stranger who offered her a flower. She accepted it, bewildered, and once he was gone, she held it up for her companion to see. "I wonder if that is a good sign, mmhhmm. Though I'm not sure what he meant with his cryptic warning, mmhhmm. Do you suppose he meant the same man from earlier, hhmm?"

The moon shone down from the cloudless sky, illuminating the flowers in the garden, and even causing some of the more exotic ones to glow. The air was warm and the breeze gentle, as it rustled the colorful leaves in the many trees surrounding them. "It really is the perrrfect night for such a stroll through the gardens, mmhhmm. I am rather enjoying myself, mmhhmm." Without realizing it, one of her hands slipped down the woman's arm and grasped her hand.

 

[Elvario]

???

Spoiler: Costume Reference Image

Spoiler: Enchanted Garden

Mentions: StarPrincessVal | Clyvelle

??? was starting to like this more and more, already debating where to show the girl around in the See. “That would work, but I've got a more fun idea. How about, just before the end of this ball, we write each-other a note saying who we really are and how to get into contact? We'll only read it after we're back home, but we'll know all we need to know to set-up another meeting.” She liked the added sense of mystery and the guarantee that she'd have an 'out' if this was one of those putting up a most excellent act pretending not to be one.

The stranger's arrival confused her. A lot. Masked vigilantes of love? What kind of talk was that? Besides, how was gifting one of them with a flower a token of their camaraderie? It felt more like a weak attempt to charm her partner away from her. Adding to that the warning and that odd sentence of being whoever you want and ??? was thoroughly confused. Her partner seem to think the same thing. “Perhaps he's just wanting to confuse us. That man in black from earlier was extremely suspicious, so only an idiot would need an additional warning. Besides, would the servants of the man organising this event really spoil the Bane's role like that? If anything, I'd say those words make that man in black less suspicious, with his role merely being to look like a Bane and to draw attention away from the real one. Or perhaps his warning that you can be whoever you want was meant to have us doubt each-other?”

Either way, ?? had made up her mind. “Then again, I'm overthinking. All things considered, I'm more than willing to take my chances if it means sticking by your lovely side for a little longer.” She'd gladly let her hand be grasped, regretting the fact that it was gloved. “There is just one thing that has me a little curious. Did that odd fellow really give you a plain and mundane rose, despite us being in the most magical enchanted garden I've seen in a long time? Or is there some of this game's element to it we've yet to uncover?”

 

[Uasal]

Spoiler: Dress and Mask

The lady in red was not expecting to be lifted bridal style so soon after being released from beneath her assailant. In fact, the woman had no expectation whatsoever to be lifted at all, let alone by another woman. Unsure of how to feel about such a thing, the woman simply remained silent, ignoring the embarrassment of the situation developing to the best of her abilities. Clearly, this woman was out to seduce her, not only in action but in conversation too. Though, in fairness such should have been expected considering the event being attended. With a soft sigh, the woman in red gave in and responded in a hushed tone of her own. Her voice tranquil and fleeting in nature, requiring careful and intentional effort to be listened to in order to be heard in full effect. "I believe we are to keep our Identities as ambiguous as possible so do excuse me for speaking vaguely.".

Eyes trailing to Rose's the woman in red would keep eye contact as best she could while speaking, fighting every urge to glance away given the circumstance "I chose to attend this ball out of curiosity. There was no grand reason, no moral obligation and no real interest in the event itself outside of that. Though I must admit, I never once would have imagined myself being carried like such. What about you? Dare I ask why it is you chose to attend?"

Cut off by the sudden appearance of another, the lady in red's focus quickly shifted to the man approaching. It would seem this night was to be filled with surprises and situations in which words would be at a loss for the woman. Looking back to the fountain the woman in red would glance quickly at the figurehead before returning her focus to the man. "Sir? There is no angle fixed upon this fountain, in fact, it's rather plain in design. Did you also happen to hit your head?". One might have thought the woman sarcastic but her tone was sincere and left the impression of concern.
Etymarchen Orikanyo​

 

[Clyvelle]

The stars were in full splendor tonight. Or perhaps the enchantments on the grounds made it so. In his younger days, he might have missed all this wonder. Truthfully, he likely would not have come to such an event. Tonight he could make up for his former ignorance.

From the first pair he encountered, "Mr. S" walked directly but casually towards the fountain, being the most notable feature in this part of the garden. Approaching from the back, he wasn't immediately aware of the floundering pair opposite him.

He stared into the glowing waters of the fountain as he allowed his mind to wander for a moment while following its perimeter around to the side facing the manor. It was only the trickling, raining sound made by bodies rising from the water accompanied by voices and splashes that made him look up.

Beholding the pair in the fountain as well as their awkward onlooker, he approached more purposefully.

"Are you two alright?" He would enquire, while waving to an attendant straying from the main room. "Might we get something to dry the ladies with please?"

 

[Rev IX]

???

Spoiler: Face

The masked man sighed. The wine was long gone, and he ended up disliking the overall idea of coming here in the first place, but something called him to stay. Wondering what that calling was, ??? looked around the entrance area. Pretty, and full of excess. Regardless, he continued to allow his eyes to wander randomly, with his mask doing a fantastic job of hiding his boredom.

Then a loud splash called his attention. Two ladies had fallen into the fountain. One guy simply stared and commented something unintelligible from this distance, while another rushed with more concern in his voice. "It's better than standing around doing nothing" he thought to himself, as he unbuttoned his jacket and vest, vaulted over the edge of the balcony and skillfully made his way down to the manor grounds without a spec of dirt on him.

He approached the quartet, taking off his jacket and vest "Here you go, ladies. I don't know much of textiles, but I am aware these absorb water in abundance, feel free to dry yourselves up as much as you can with them" he affirmed, as he offered the pieces of clothing to the ladies with no particular preference, one would even think he actually was doing it as a mere act of good will, and not a move in a stupid rich people game... Or is it? That would be only for the smiling mask to know.

Clyvelle Uasal Orikanyo Etymarchen

 

[StarPrincessVal]

????

Spoiler: Face Reveal

Mentions: Elvario
Languages: Common | <Beastial>

Spoiler: Enchanted Garden

​

She smiles at her companion. "All rrright then, mmhhmm. Beforrre the end of the ball, mmhhmm. Do you suppose there will be sorrrt of announcement, hhmm? Surely they will have to let the guests know when it is time to vacate the prrremises, mmhhmm." She wasn't sure how long she had, but she was having a far better time than she ever thought she might and wasn't ready for the night to be over.

She looks at the flower in her hand, turning it over to examine it carefully. The stem and rose both seem to be perfectly standard parts of a flower. "It doesn't appearrr to be special, mmhhmm. Just an ordinary flowerrr, mmhhmm." As she holds it, a thorn pricks her. "Ooooh. Careful, the thorns are ordinary, too, mmhhmm." She holds up her finger and sucks on it to remove the small amount of blood.

She looks at the rose in her hand again. "When my sisterrr and I were youngerrr, we used to pick roses like this and sell them in the village squarrre to travellers in our village, mmhhmm. Our mother would take the ones we had left at the end of the week and use the petals to bake cakes with, mmhhmm. It has been a long time since I have tasted my motherrr's baking, mmhhmm. Perhaps it is time I returrrn home for a visit, mmhhmm." She turns to her companion and looks up at her with curious eyes. "Do you have any siblings, hhmm?"

 

[Etymarchen]

Uasal
Location: Front Yard (at the fountain)

+ "Rose" +​

Spoiler

Uasal
She smiled despite The Lady in Red's vague response.

"Indeed, we ought to stand ambiguous...but can you blame me for desiring to know more about somebody as beautiful as you? I happen to have found you to be the most exciting thing upon this ball. I came here to be able to have fun, you see...and part of that fun involves being able to claim something for myself..."

Though she would set the woman down, that was not to say that she would not offer her one small thrill--placing her hand gently beneath the Lady in Red's chin as she would whisper gently in her ear:

"So if I can't know who you are, can't I at least make you mine?~♥"



Rev IX
As the man would offer his jacket and vest, Rose would smile as she would glance in his direction with a slight bow, gently lifting the jacket from his hands with a chuckle. "Why, you certainly know how to make use of an opportunity at play," she mused with a sly smile, pressing her fingertip gently at his chest. "If only I would be able to reciprocate the goodness of your heart...this act on its own would be enough to swoon any easy woman upon the ball...if only I were so lucky to be easily tricked by such things." She sighed. "I could only wish that I could gain something...say, perhaps...could you be that something I gain?"

She laughed afterwards.

"That is...only if you would be so kind, sir, to offer me further of your heart thank simply your kindness."

Orikanyo
Jacket in hand, she would turn her gaze towards the swordsman with the oni mask, attentive and, perhaps approaching closer than necessary.

"Well, you know...you're free to join in. I'm still a frail, delicate maiden, you know...." Rose would pull her hair beneath her ear. And though her mask hid the full expression of her eyes, the sly smile remained all the same. "I'm quite cold...it would be nice to be able to receive another's warmth in my attempts to dry, but alas...perhaps I am undeserving of even but a big strong man's warmth and embrace in this moment of need...Unless?"

Another gentle press of her hand.

"You might be wiling to rid of that empty coldness for me?"

Clyvelle
Her gaze then turned to "Mr. S," a soft chuckle as she would answer his question.

"No worries, Sir," she smiled, "I am...perfectly fine. Although...I must bring up an issue just as prominent for myself...

You see...I worry for my need for a different set of shoes...the dress code is important, see, but my previous shoes..." She lifted her foot up, slightly bruised as they were, then pointing towards the rather tall heels she had taken off. "I might not be able to stop myself from falling for somebody so competant and considerate as you if I were to remain so prone..."

 

[Elvario]

???

Spoiler: Costume Reference Image

Spoiler: Enchanted Garden

Mentions: StarPrincessVal

??? clicker her tongue. “You're already thinking about the ending? I'd rather enjoy the present more~” She teased. “Although, yes, I think we'll be gathered up for the reveal of who the Bane of Love is and perhaps we'll even be congratulated if we partnered up with others.” Truthfully, she didn't care that much about the whole 'bane' thing any-more, as even if this girl was the bane, she'd have had an entertaining night. Then again... if this girl had only partnered up due to misleading her, that might actually be a little painful? ??? suddenly realised the true deviousness of this set-up. “Come to think of it, I feel bad for whomever ends up hooking up with that Bane of Love and truly believing they had a click, despite it only being the Bane trying to sabotage them. That must not be a pleasant thing to find out for whomever will have such misfortune.”

She figured she'd not think about it more, as that'd just ruin her mood. She glanced at the drop of blood. The red liquid had always been a bit odd to her, being so vibrant. There was one thing that surprised her even more. “I wasn't aware that roses were consumed like that. I thought most only used them as decoration.”

That's when a more troublesome topic came up. “I...” She started, then changed her mind. “My species has different ideas about family than some others. I believe I might have some half-siblings, but I was the only one raised specifically by my mother.” She wasn't sure how to continue and didn't like talking too much on this topic. “I do have two friends that are like sisters to me, however, as for as far as I can understand the type of familial ties one might have, their ties to me and vice versa would be very similar.”

She figured it'd be best to try turn the topic back around again. “Say, considering we're in a garden, what type of plants are you fond of? Other than the aforementioned roses, of course.”

 

[Clyvelle]

"Careful that all that silver on your tongue doesn't poison you, young miss." said Mr. S, his tone betraying his amusement. "This convocation would feel terribly empty without you here."

He would offer a hand to her so that she might climb out of the fountain or otherwise situate herself on its edge more easily. About that time, a masked attendant would approach with linens. Taking a large towel with a nod to the tireless servant, Mr. S would pass the fabric around the woman's petite form, draping it neatly on her shoulders. Gently patting the towel against her to start the drying process, his hands lingered on her shoulders as he stared into the mystery behind the mask.

She would bring up her footwear and present her abused extremities in their woeful state. Only now would his hands slide from their perch on her shoulders, following her arms down to just past the elbow where they would leap to tenderly cradle her foot. He would examine them as pity for their owner would well up within him.

"Fashion isn't very thoughtful of the fairer sex, is it?" he would say, more thinking aloud than expecting an answer.

He would look up to match her gaze once more while relinquishing her foot. The glow from within the waters of the fountain created dazzling caustics that whimsically played along her form.

"Well, I'm sure no one would say anything about a little barefooted frolicking in the garden to allow your feet to rest." Mr. S suggested.

The attendant, who had just finished distributing the linens, chimed up at this point.

"If I may, might I suggest resting here a moment and having the young lady dip her feet in the fountain? The rules of the evening forbid us to offer magical healing, however, the waters in the fountain contain herbs that can help with pain. Do enjoy yourselves this evening." said he with a bow before leaving them.

Mr. S turned to the lady.

"So what'll it be, Maiden of Black and Blue?"

Etymarchen

 

[Rev IX]

???

Spoiler: Face

The lady who took his jacket was apparently casting a quite large net. Trying to charm everyone involved with this watery accident, all at once. Offering kind words for the gestures of "Mr. S" and his own, asking for the embrace of the one with a demon mask, and even whispering who-knows-what towards the other lady who had fallen to the fountain.

The smiling mask took note of everyone else who spoke. Most of them had a way of speaking similar to the dagger fellow, on a more toned down degree, making it bearable. In light of that, some motivation kicked in, and pushed him to try his luck again. Unlike these people, he had to work to achieve their manner of speech somewhat. "If that is what you desire, my fair maiden, I'd be happy to oblige." he commented, hoping that he had managed to emulate these people's manner of speech.

 

[Orikanyo]

Spoiler: images

mask


clothes


the boi

Etymarchen Clyvelle Rev IX
^ spoken to v is around
Uasal

​

"...What in the fuck...?" is all he really could say... then.. people started talking... more and more... Gods... Gods above and below he couldn't bloody stand it anymore.

"Have any of ya'll ACTUALLY talked to anybody before? Seriously what the hell ya'll doing, some mysterious stranger bit? Normal people don't damn well talk like that ya'll sound like your half way gonna shank em in a dark alley or somethin'!" said the man in a mask of a creature most likely to do so then leave no signs it happened due to eating the corpse.

"Actin' all mysterious and oh so charmin' and yer likely to get yourselves locked up by any fellah half minded to look out for creeps and wierdos!

Even the nobles back north didn't act all creepy and prim proper with a knife behind their back! They had the common decency to try and stab yea in the front, or bite off your head if they've the kit for it. " the man scratched behind his head, looking very much like he'd not like to be here.

"Is this a seduction thing? Do southerners like creepy talkers who hide behind masks in these parties and talk like they've lurked in the bushes watching you for a week? Man this whole thing startin' to sound like it's a set up to get folks murdered or cooked up for dinner! Actually now that i think on it this really does sound like it... Yea think the Bane of Love is actually gonna kill someone? it'd be a damn set up if i've ever heard it... maybe I should get the hell outta here.. bastards taking my damn sword.. Feeling damn naked now..." the man was more or less thinking of high tailing it now... And seemed to be keeping a good long distance away from others at this point.

"Ya'll should take the same trail out, ain't nothin' good gonna come from this, much less this girl trying so hard to appear attractive and alluring." with that... he took a quick turn and made a hurry back towards the entrance to this place. Sure as hell he ain't gonna stay for a damn murder! He had better things to do with his life! he seemed to be fumbling with his mask as he went...

 

[Uasal]

Spoiler: Dress and Mask

Once returned to her own two feet the woman in red proceeded to path herself down, only to again be interrupted by Rose. With the woman taking a hold of her chin, the Lady in red had little option but to listen to what it was the woman had to say, even less so when she moved to whisper directly into her ear. Once released the Woamn in red let out a soft sigh, returning to her patting down of the water-soaked dress. It was proving ineffective but when offered a piece of clothing by a passerby the woman rejected it politely saying "Thank you, but I'll be fine. You shouldn't soil your own clothes, all that results in is not one but two wet items of clothing. I do appreciate the sentiment though. You have my thanks, honestly."

With Rose was distracted by a growing group and with another member already storming off as a result of the growing noise it would seem. (Well, that and presumably he wasn't a fan of the typical masquerade way of speaking, something he and the lady in red shared a view on.) The lady in red decided it best to depart now, take her leave while she still had the chance. And that she did, slipping away quietly when she assumed no one was paying her attention. Slipping back inside the building, the Lady in red had but one thought, and she spoke aloud "I wonder if it's too late to opt out and leave..."

Etymarchen Orikanyo Rev IX Clyvelle

 

[StarPrincessVal]

????

Spoiler: Face Reveal

Mentions: Elvario
Languages: Common | <Beastial>

Spoiler: Enchanted Garden

She turned red as the woman teased her. She clung tighter to her arm. "Ah, no, sorry, mmhhmm. I was merely curious about the night's prrroceedings, mmhhmm. I do not wish for it to be overrr yet, mmhhmm." She hoped she hadn't accidently offended the woman. She was having a wonderful evening. Her heart did grow a little heavy at the discussion of the Bane of Love. "That is trrrue, mmhhmm. It would be most unforrrtunate to be decieved by this Bane of Love, mmhhmm. I rather enjoyed the game aspect of the evening, though now it seems more like a <cruel joke>. Trrrick, mmhhmm."

When the woman mentioned she had never heard of baking with roses, she was excited to explain. "Yes, rose petals can be used to add a fragrant, perfumey taste to baked goods and beverages, mmhhmm. I quite enjoy the taste, though I am told it is not for everyone, mmhhmm. Several other flowers can be used as well such as lavender, chamomile, even common daisies and dandelions, mmhhmm."

She was about to talk further about family and friends when the woman suddenly asked about her favorite flowers. "What plants am I fond of, hhmm?" She laughs and gets a slight skip in her step. "If I speak on this, we shall be herrre all night, mmhhmm. I love flowers, like lilacs, lilies, irises, and lotuses, mmhhmm. I think they are all very beautiful, mmhhmm. But I also enjoy medicinal herbs that I can use in my work, mmhhmm. Feverfew, aloe, ginkgo, and the chamomile I mentioned earrrlier to name a few, mmhhmm. I have always wanted to see a cactus, mmhhmm. I have seen paintings and sketches, but never encounterrred one for myself, mmhhmm. And then there are the rare plants with mysterious qualities, mmhhmm. Dragon eyes, graveblooms, star orchids, mmhhmm. I find plants fascinating, mmhhmm."

 

[Elvario]

???

Spoiler: Costume Reference Image

Spoiler: Enchanted Garden

Mentions: StarPrincessVal | TheTimePiece (Ice Show?)

Talking about all that 'Bane' stuff was getting depressing, so ??? was glad to leave that topic behind. Instead, she got more and more intrigued by the large amount of edible flowers. “I never realised so many of them were edible. I always thought they were just pleasant to look at and had a nice scent to them.” Besides, even beverages? She wouldn't have guessed. Then again, she'd probably never taste it either, so it wasn't too far-fetched for her to be unknown to it.

When ??? heard what plants her companion was fond of, she was a little let-down. After all, it was a whole slew of nicely flowering plants. “Yes, those are rather great to look at.” She admitted. Then it was followed by medicinal ones. “I don't think I know much about medicinal usages, but they sound useful.” Still, not what she hoped to hear. Next was... a cactus? “Aren't those thorny desert plants?” That was odd. Also a bit of a shame to hear a cactus named before the species she hoped would be name-dropped. Next were... plants she didn't really know much about. Those sound interesting. I bet the See grows them in abundance.”

Sadly, amidst the list of plants, there wasn't any mention of the species she secretly hoped to be mentioned. Alas, she'd been asking for too much. She'd get over it. Yes... Let's try to find another topic. “Say, didn't that man at the start mention an ice show or something? I'm not sure what that means, but perhaps it'd be fun to take a look at that as well. I'm not great with the cold, but it sounds really interesting.”

 

[TheTimePiece]

Event Triggered: Ice Show​

Elvario Clyvelle Faynorae gmimperfecti Uasal Etymarchen Orikanyo Shawazama StarPrincessVal Rev IX

As if triggered by it's name being mentioned, suddenly a slew of colorful lights would appear across the sky as if pointing to the general area that the fountain was in, apparently that was the 'announcement' mentioned earlier. The lights line leading to the fountain could be seen regardless of where anyone was currently. After giving a sufficient amount of time for people to make their way over who already weren't there, suddenly some of the water began to rise up from the fountain.

The floating water moved away from the fountain and began to light up and crystalize in a flash, and just before anyone knew it the ice started to shift into a medium ice rink of sorts, that was illuminated by drops of crystaline water above sparkling across it floating in place magically. Figures who were scaled for the rink, smaller than a typical person, were dressed very elegantly and similar to the way that Cuore was dressed appeared, and began to waltz with one another across the ice very skillfully. Bits of ice continued to periodically rain down across the well lit rink stage, conveying the idea of snowflakes in ice form for the dancing ice figures.

Not only that some translucent ice figures appeared donning different instruments off to the side as they started playing and one conducted. They were wearing clothing that was stylized similarly to bards of the time. When they started 'playing' music began to fill the area adding to the overall performance transpiring quite quickly.

The music that could be heard synchronized to the figures for those who were in close enough proximity to the 'stage':

 

[Etymarchen]

Before she could manage to concoct her response to the other two gentlemen ( Clyvelle , Rev IX ) and unfortunate as it would be that the lady in red ( Uasal ) would leave, her ear would be caught by the heckling of the individual with the oni mask. ( Orikanyo )

"Unfortunately, as much as I'd enjoy this little night with you and I," she smiled apologetically, offering a bow to Mr. S and the other masked individual. "this night is mine to spend--not to waste. I can only have one of this night, of which I would prefer not to spend my time idling upon when I could have never had this chance previously..."

She then tossed her heel at the heckler's leg, knocking him off his balance as he would attempt to leave the premises, raising to her feet as her silhouette would serve as foreground to the backdrop of the icy rain and rising fountain.

"You must have plenty of charm beneath that mask of yours, considering you'd be so incredibly critical of these games of charm. Do you perhaps remark yourself a natural charmer extraordinaire? Or are you just a naughty little doggy making what should be a beautiful, wonderful night one more miserable with his unnecessary barking? I'd say your lack of a partner at the moment already says a lot on your own your ability to even charm somebody in the first place...but...then again...considering you'd just fallen...I can't blame you for wanting to leave...it would be awful to embarrass yourself further. Especially with this ball setting..."

She then would walk over towards the heckler...

And grab him by the hand, forcing him upwards, taking him into a spin, pulling him closer to herself...as she smiled.

"Your poor sense of balance would probably make it impossible for a dumb mutt like you to dance properly, after all~"

Spoiler: player agreement notes

actions and hit were allowed by the other player can confirm with ori

 

[Faynorae]

???

Spoiler: Masked Maiden

(So like, I'm like way lazy to make a like finished illustration. So like, have this major sketch-o-rama watercolourish portrait. Like, totes Sorry~)

Interactions: gmimperfecti​

Stars shoot across the sky as if they could flyThe maiden giggled, with a slight voice. Covering the place where their mouth would be, "I do see~♡" They tilted their head, "My, oh my. It seems that to me I have come upon quite the poetic stranger. How dear♡" They spoke delicately. The maiden was fond of this type of person. After all, they thought of themselves as somewhat of a poet.

"Mayhaps I shall? After all, today is a night for love and belonging. Since you have mentioned it, what does it be that you would consider a 'fine' dessert? Raspberry Tarts, Ratafia Cakes, Choux Pastries... Perchance luxuries as such?" The masked maiden started. "At times, they say that the way to mans' heart is through things like these. What are your thoughts on the matter? Perchance it is false?"

While waiting for an answer, the maiden thought back on things while resting their hands. It was a shame that the other stranger seemingly left. A loss is a loss, for who said that everyone had to be in pairs for this night? It would have been nice to have multiple people's various opinions on thoughts like these. A sigh left this person. How unfortunate.

Love was mentioned... Love. "Love..." The word escaped the maidenly one's thoughts. Speaking gently with a warming tenderness. "When a person falls in love, their heart pounds madly, upon every moment their beloved crosses their mind. Incessantly, chasing after that person. It is gentle, yet cruel. A violent cradle, passionate and burning red. Painting the world in roses and pinks, making one ignorant of any grievances." The slender figure chuckled.

"I have many a time fallen in love. Love made me fly as if I could reach and touch every star. The world around me became a dream. A dream where I flew down and dyed white flowers in my crimson love. The moments of love always seem beautiful. Although, perhaps, they should not. Hehe~♡ " The maiden clasped their hands together as they spoke ever so warmly of love. "I have been cursed, to only ever fall in love in that way. Thinking of it this way, love can become quite violent in its passion and sinister in its ignorance. Mayhaps, I am merely in limerance for the idea of loving and being loved." Stated the 'maiden.'

The sudden flashing lights drew the attention of the slender one, through the windows the maiden could make out where the line of light was head. The colourful splendour of the light reminded the maidenly figure of a shooting star. It inspired them in a way, it drew them in. Looking back at the masked stranger, the masked maiden would outstretch their hand toward them, "It seems that an event may be taking place in the front yard. Would one perhaps be inclined to accompany me~?" The maiden would offer with a slightly bright tone.

 

[EMIYAman]

???

Spoiler: Costume Reference Image

Mentions: Elvario StarPrincessVal (near them)
​

The figure stood alone among the party goers. Rather than wear a gaudy costume fixed with a colorful mask they wore a black jacket with a large hood. A visor and solid half face mask obscured their features in darkness. So far they had been generally avoided; they stood out even among all the unique costumes simply due to just how mundane and standoffish they were.

The figure contented itself with the hor'dourves, eating methodically but unrelenting. Normally they would not be caught dead in a place like this, but they'd been without a home and food for some time and they'd take anything they could. Even if it was in a place wholly unlike them to be in.

Their attention was grabbed by the sudden illumination of colors by the fountain. Staring out at it the figure threw another piece of cheese into the darkness of their hood before curiously making their way over to the display. They stopd with the growing crowd with their hands in their jackets pockets appearing more like a wraith than a person.

"This is more father's kind of thing than me..." The figure spoke aloud as their mind wandered. Seeking some measure of solace from the sheer number of people they stood by the exit to the Enchanted Garden just behind them.

​

 

[StarPrincessVal]

????

Spoiler: Face Reveal

Mentions: Elvario
Languages: Common | <Beastial>

Spoiler: Enchanted Garden

​

As the sky lit up with guiding lights, she stared in amazement at them. "They themselves are beautiful, but they seem to be guiding us, mmhhmm. Shall we go see, hhmm?" She spins around to walk backward while gently pulling on her companion playfully. The lights lead out of the garden and to the fountain by the entrance.

As the ice show commences, she gasps in wonder and awe, clinging tightly to her companions arm in excitement. "It is very enterrrtaining, mmhhmm. Like the puppet plays and masked theaterrr of my home town, mmhhmm. Though much more elaborrrate and <breath taking>. Attractive, mmhhmm."

The miniature frozen band begins to play filling the area with music. She turns and faces her companion. "Would you carrre to dance with me, hhmm? I'm afraid the only dances I know arrre the folk dances of my village, and I am nowhere near intoxicated enough to perrrform those here, but I can move to the music just fine, mmhhmm."

 

[Elvario]

???

Spoiler: Costume Reference Image

Mentions: StarPrincessVal

She was surprised when the lights lit up by the mention of their name, or so it seemed. Her partner seemed equally surprised, but also excited. She'd gladly allow the girl to pull her along. “Of course we shall~” That's when she figured she'd be a little more bold. “Say, would you be offended if I'd call you my kitten?” For some reason, the purring and playfulness of her partner really wanted her to use that, but she also wasn't quite sure if that'd be racially insensitive. She really hoped she wasn't ruining what they had going on with such a remark.

The ice show itself was marvellous. She didn't know that water and cold could do such cool things together. Dancing ice figures? It reminded her of one of the elemental cardinals, somehow, but this was a lot more fun and cheerful. “Yes, they remind me of some things from home as well...” She replied.

When ??? got asked to dance, she panicked a little at first. She wanted to excuse herself for her lack of ability to do so, but relief washed over her when her companion said she wasn't sure how to do so either. In fact, she had an even better plan. “The ice is making me grow rather cold, so why don't you come close and we have a slow and closely-held waltz?” She said, hoping to draw in her companion in as close as the costume would let her.

She was too drawn in by her companion to even notice the 'wraith' like figure that had gotten close to them.

 

[StarPrincessVal]

????

Spoiler: Face Reveal

Mentions: Elvario
Languages: Common | <Beastial>
​

She turns bright red at her companions request, though she does consider it carefully. It is not the word "kitten" that causes her to hesitate. Kitten, especially in common, was already a simple term of affection, it held no special import. But the word "my", on the other hand, was problematic. Ownership and belonging were complicated matters among beastkin, especially Neko. But, still, she considered it. Perhaps it was the alcohol, or the enchanting time they had together in the garden, but the idea didn't bother her as much as she thought it might. Her companion meant no offense, and had even had the curtesy to ask. The connotation of the question wasn't even apparent to her. After a moment of thinking it over, she clutched her companions arm as they walked. "That would fine, mmhhmm. You can call me your kitten, mmhhmm."

At the offer to waltz, she smiled. "That sounds lovely, mmhhmm." She holds the sides of her dress and gives a curtsy. "My lady, mmhhmm. May have this <dance>? Waltz, hhmm?" She takes her companions hand and places her other hand on her companions shoulder. "Like this, hhmm?" She got as close as she could with the costume in the way. It felt nice, being in this half embrace.