snowtourn

The Grand Hall had been decorated beautifully for the gala. Blue and gold colors hung from every rafter in the form of pennants, party streamers and other decorations. The hall is also far more illuminated than it is normally- lit up by a thousand glowing, aromatic candles. 

The center of the grand hall has been cleared away for a dance floor, and small tables have been set up to allow guests a place to sit, eat and converse. Long tables line the walls and are covered in food ready for the taking. 

Light, airy music plays out across the hall, inviting merriment and reverie.

After getting ready for the gala, Darcy arrived in the grand hall a bit early. He lingered by the sidelines and waited for Kal to arrive... @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto walked in with Ekmeros, and was immediately admiring the beautiful decoration. The scent of the candles was a little strong on his nose, but it wasn't too bad. "Wow, this is beautiful", the spirit hummed, his tail slowly swaying from side to side as he looked around. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ekmeros followed, quietly looking around like he had done in the chapel. "It is lovely here," he hummed, stepping out of the way of the door for other people when they inevitably arrived. His eyes quickly found the small tables but he didn't move over to them, just logging them in the back of his mind. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Glass wandered into the gala and lingered by the dance floor, idly watching the like 3 other people there. So far, she wasn't all too impressed with this party. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Yes, it is. Mm, I need to be careful about the candles though", he commented, lowering his tail and making a mental note not to get it near any fire. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

It didn't take long for Kal to make his way into the Gala. While it was meant to be a fancier event, Kal was dressed in a somewhat laid-back way. Dressed in some nice pants and shoes, his top was probably the most 'fanciest' part of the outfit. It was a simple white button up shirt that had the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, which helped to show off muscular and toned arms. Several buttons of the shirt was undone, revealing well-defined collarbones and part of his chest. A silver chain hung around his neck, with whichever pendant tucked protectively in the shirt. His hair was nicely slicked back with just a few locks slipping over his forehead. There was a dark vest that he had with the outfit, but it was already in his grasp. The tie he had with the outfit was already undone and hanging around his neck. Bit of a whore, but pop off king. He glanced around the hall before he spotted Darcy, where he lit up with a smile and offered the other man a wave as he approached. "Darcy! What's up, man? Bruh, I love what they've done with this place!" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Darcy waved excitedly to Kal, and smiled. "I know! The ambiance is very nice and elegant." He smiled, and adjusted the cravat worn around his own neck. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Zerada.. Begrudgingly made her way into the Gala. Dances weren't usually her thing. In fact, all she wanted to do was simply stay inside her room and sleep the rest of the night away now that she was able to have an actual bed to sleep in. God, anything beat a sleeping bag on the floor. She arrived in nothing that was too fancy. Some dress pants with a nice dark blue top on was more than enough for her. This was. Already a lot for her to handle. Fucking hell. Slowly, she made her way further into the room.. ( @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 whenever yall are ready c: )

1:59 PM

"YOOOOO- Look at you!!! Lookin' spiffy as hell, I love that for you, man!" Kal grinned, impressed with Darcy's sense of fashion. Very nice, very very nice. "You fit right in!" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Darcy's outfit was... admittedly, very similar to what he had on before, minus the heavy jacket. Still, he looked very fancy. "Thank you! You look nice, too! Very suave, like a hero from an adventure novel!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Ekmeros moved out of the way for Zerada so she could easily enter the room, even though he had already moved out of the way of the door. Then he twisted his viol case so that the instrument was on his front rather than his back, deciding there would be too many people to risk letting them bump into him. "Perhaps we should try to find our roommates. Since we didn't seem to catch them before this event started," he suggested in a low mutter to Taisto. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto stepped aside as well when he noticed Ekmeros move, and glanced at the angry woman entering the hall. "Yes, we could do that. Um... Su-Ji, and... Zee-rah-da...? Was it?" he replied the tiefling less quietly, but not exactly yelling either. "But how do you think we could recognize them if we haven't met them?" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Hell, Darcy could've had a normal t-shirt on with a clip on tie, and Kal still would've been impressed. "Thanks, man!" Kal laughed. "Appreciate that! I didn't really bring anythin' too fancy with me here, buuuut I did my best! Glad you like the fit, bud!" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Of course!" Darcy smiled. "You made quite the impression, arriving here. I didn't expect a formal event either, if I'm being honest, but I'm glad I brought something just in case." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Zerad stopped walking as she heard what sounded like an attempt at pronouncing her name. She didn't turn around yet, unsure on if someone was actually trying to say her name, or if they weren't. Even then, if they were, was it.. In a positive light? Or was it in a negative way? She'd wait to see. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

2:22 PM

"Thanks, man, I appreciate that," Kal chuckled. "You really do look perfect for the event. Your outfit really is perfect! D'you come to these kind of things often?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Yes, actually!" Darcy confessed, awkwardly laughing as he did. "My father and I attend these sorts of galas often, because of our positions in the Royal Translation corps." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Ekmeros noticed from the corner of his eye that the person who had just entered had stopped but that could have been a coincidence. "Well... yo- we might have to ask around... or maybe they'll find us first," he said back to Taisto, somehow even more quieter than before. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I suppose", Taisto shrugged. "I hope people won't be annoyed too much." And with that, he chose his first target: the angry lady! "Hello! My name is Taisto. What's your name?" he asked, walking up to Zerada. He had already forgotten that he wasn't in his full human disguise, thus he wasn't worried about her reaction to his fuzzy face. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

It wasn't long till Valerie stepped into the gala with a hand on her hip. She also wasn't all to impressed but still, she could at least find some of her friends and go hang with them. She let out a small sigh, frowning a bit. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Glass smiled as she saw Valerie, and waved her over. "Hey there!" She greeted, then turned to admire her outfit, "Ooo, someone's dressed up! You look great!" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Holy shit- That's pretty cool! I didn't realize that your job had you going to fancy things and working with royal families. What's that like?" Kal asked with an interested smile. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

2:36 PM

.. Huh. The people had been speaking about her. Zerada, somewhat awkwardly, turned around to face the new individuals. She offered them a small wave. "U-uh- Hi.. I'm actually Zerada.." At the sight of Taisto, Zerada didn't react. She was used to having her boy Su-Ji around that anyone similar to him wasn't anything new. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ekmeros tensed as Taisto just... walked up to the stranger. Man just stood behind near the doors as the two spoke but he heard the name of one of their roommates and sighed with relief. That worked out well. Despite that being sorted, Ekmeros lingered by the entrance, waiting and listening for a better time to walk over. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Well, not very often royal families, other than that of the Grand Duchess," Darcy explained, "More often, we attend galas with industrialists, and those from wealthy lineages, particularly old money." "It's alright. Not as interesting as it sounds, most of it's just discussion of economics and policies and whatnot, though, I do enjoy the aspect of dressing up!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Oh? No way! We were looking for you! We are roommates, and thought it would be nice to meet and see how we get along", Taisto smiled, his tail quietly swishing a bit. He glanced back to see where Ekmeros was, and turned even more back when he noticed the man was even further behind than he thought. "That there is Ekmeros", Taisto pointed, and then waved his hand, gesturing the bard to join them. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Grand Duchess? Huh- D'you mind me asking where you're from? We don't have Grand Duchesses in America- At least, I'm pretty sure there aren't." Kal hummed. He, genuinely, wasn't too sure what 75% of the words that Darcy had said actually meant, but he was still working on processing them. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

2:54 PM

"Oh- I must've missed you two, I went by the room a while ago," She offered Taisto an awkward smile. She glanced towards Ekmeros and nodded her head in greeting. "Well- Hi to you both. It's nice to meet you." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Oh, I'm from the nation of Verend! I'm sorry, I should've mentioned that earlier." He laughed. "We're a rather small, isolated island nation, so you probably haven't heard of it before." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Nah, you're all good!" Kal chuckled. "But yeah, I've never heard of it before! Sounds like a lil' neat place." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Ekmeros blinked as Taisto turned to him and nodded to accept the beckon. With a small pause, he quickly paced the short distance to them. "Hello there," he said as he held a hand out to Zerada for her to shake, biting back the introduction that Taisto had already taken from him. It threw him off course and so he didn't say anything more. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto looked at Ekmeros' hand, wondering if he should have offered a handshake as well. "Oh yeah, I mean, we mostly kept to our side of the room, so we might have missed you even if you passed by. But yeah! It's nice to meet you too!" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"It is! I've lived there all my life, and it's quite nice." He nodded. "I assume you're from America?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Dust entered the hall in slouch, so far he had kept to himself, and he intended to keep it that way for this "Gala" or whatever it was. He wasn't interested in talking or dancing or anything like that. So he found a spot where he could observe from a bit of shadow. Gerald entered with a new fancy yellow overcoat and immediately wanted to any that would pass him a glance. "Ah what a delightful evening for such festivities! Truly this will be a fond time for making the most of memories!"

Handshakes, right. That was a normal thing. With slight hesitation, Zerada gave Ekmeros a handshake. One little shake, two little shake. Done. "That's fine, I likely just- I was a quick in and out, anyways," Zerada nodded. "It's nice to meet you two as well. Have you been- Enjoying yourselves here so far?" Nailing the social interaction. Absolutely nailing it. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

3:28 PM

"Is the scenery nice? I dunno, but it just sounds like it would have nice scenery," Kal chuckled. "Yup, born and raised in Chicago. One hell of a city, I highly recommend it." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"It is quite nice, especially in the countryside. I live in the city, though, which is considerably less scenic." Darcy mused. "Oh, Chicago! I've read about it before. Is it true you have a statue of a giant bean?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Yeah, concrete jungle. Cities got their own kind of beauty to it, but they're built different," Kal chuckled. At the mention of the Bean, Kal nodded his head eagerly. "Hell yeah, we got a big boy statue of the Bean! That thing's huge-" He spread out his arms, as though he was attempting to present just how chonky the Bean truly was. "It's real cool, you'll have to check it out! It's in the middle of this giant park. The Bean's giant and reflective, you'll be able to see yourself in it. It's real cool!" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Ekmeros' handshake was firm but gentle and and he was definitely surprised by the haste. His smile was tight against his face as he took his hands back and rearranged the case strap on his shoulder. "Yes, I have... enjoyed myself. The island is very lovely. I had a small tour of some of the sights. If you need help packing or cleaning, I'll be happy to help." Happy was an understatement. Perfect social interaction. So good. Gonna get a good grade. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I've been liking it a lot too. I don't get to see the ocean very often, so it's nice. The buildings here are very pretty and it's so cool to meet new people. Especially nonhuman ones! Oh, but humans are also cool, of course", he added, as to not say Zerada wasn't interesting. He looked at Ekmeros happiky, his tail wagging. "I can recommend Ekmeros' help with cleaning and organizing. He is very neat and systematic. Thanks for your help, by the way!" he smiled brightly at the bard. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Fascinating!" Darcy smiled. "I would love to see it, one day. It sounds so interesting..." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kass sauntered into the gala, keeping her eyes open for two individuals of interest. One of them, in all his winged glory, happened to be dressed to the nines not too far from her. Suppressing a smile, she slowly walked over to him, making sure her outfit trailed back dramatically as she took every step. “You stick out like a sore thumb,” she mused, her words stilted and dry, though it sounded like she was talking to an old friend. “Surprised you’re not drawing more of a crowd.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine had made his entrance before most of the others - late to a party, early to a gala. His choice of attire was a constant grab for attention, each detail rewarding prying eyes with new things to find. With one hand lazily on his hip as he pretended to be at least a little enamoured by the food set out, when Kass approached he allowed himself a slow turn as he smirked at her. "Well it drew you in, didn't it darling?" He eyed her outfit up and faintly chuckled. "Was no one paying enough attention to your outfit?" @Morgan | Kass + Ren

“I haven’t had much of a chance to walk around yet, but I might do so later or even tomorrow.” At the suggestion of cleaning, Zerada looked a bit- Unsure. “I appreciate that offer, I really do, but it’s okay. I didn’t bring much to unpack and pack again for later. I’m pretty good with cleaning myself. It’s kinda- What I do. I really appreciate the offer, though, thank you.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

5:22 PM

“Yeah! Highly recommend it- You should check out the Sears Tower, too! It’s called the Willis Tower now, actually, but no one calls it that.” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"I will, if I ever go!" Darcy laughed. "I hadn't planned on visiting Chicago before, but now I suppose I have to!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto's endorsement didn't help Ekmeros all that much. He pursed his lips at the rejection but nodded in understanding. He's just an old man (36) trying to keep busy. "It is what I do as well." Aside from play the viol. "If you ever need help, do not hesitate to ask me." He nodded again, then turned to Taisto. "You are welcome," he added. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kass smirked. “Birds of a feather fly together- or however that saying goes. You like to draw a crowd, and so do I- might as well have our own party,” she took a step closer. “I saw you on the docks, and my interest was piqued, I must admit. Had to know if your wings were real, and if the person attached to them could hold my attention as well.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine chuckled and shrugged one shoulder to dismiss the saying. "A party of two isn't enough for me, darling." He leant toward Kass and his voice was almost a purr as he continued, "That's practically a date." He chuckled, letting her continue, then spread his wings out. "Of course they're real, I'm the Angel. I couldn't be without them. And well, I've certainly grabbed your attention, I think I'll do perfectly fine at holding it." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

Now, all she’d need to do was keep getting him to talk… which, didn’t seem terribly hard. It seemed he did like the sound of his own voice… “A date? Now that’s forward,” Kass mused, putting a hand over her veiled mouth in mock surprise. “Surely you don’t try to court every person you meet. But I suppose you are right about holding my attention, and I will do my best to hold yours as well… Angel. Is that what you would like to be called?” she tilted her head to the side. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

“Yeah, lemme know whenever you’re in town, I’ll show you around and show you all of the cool spots!” Kal reached into his pocket and pulled out one of his ‘business’ cards. He handed it to Darcy. “That’s got all my contact info on it, feel free to hit me up any time!” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Peregrine laughed. "I'm a very forward person. And not every person, just the interesting ones. Never permanently, either, no one either holds me down for long." He winked. Then he chuckled again. "Oh, you'll try, will you? Not confident enough to be certain that you'll keep me around?" His smile grew slightly at her question. "It's not just what I like to be called, darling, it's what I am." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

Darcy took the card, and studied it closely. He... didn't know what any of the social media listed on it were, but that didn't matter! He tucked it into his pocket. "Thank you! I greatly appreciate it." He reached into another pocket, and pulled something out. "And, since we're trading business cards," He handed Kal his own, incredibly fancy card. It was printed in a silverish ink, and read, in five languages (English, mandarin, Spanish, Hindi and Arabic) "Darcy Sterling - Member of the the Duchess of Verend's Royal Translation Corps, Rank 4 translator". It also included an address in Islington, Verend, and a phone number. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

It was Kass’s turn to laugh. “I’m not made to entertain, but I will try. I’ve had success today so far, but I’m not afraid to admit that my luck will eventually run out, and eventually I’ll be thrown to the wayside. But, I will try to be useful to those that wish to keep me around. And I’m honored that I can be kept by you, if even for a few minutes, Angel,” she attempted to wink as well, but like some of her movements, it was a bit stilted. As if she’d never quite learned how to wink. “You’re an Angel, Angel,” she paused. “Do you ever think you’ll fall from grace? Or… have you already?” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Luckily for you, I am made for that." Peregrine watched Kass with a level of satisfaction, listening to her and lightly rolling his eyes. "You'll really need some acting lessons, darling, that wink was a little bit off." He laughed, turning slightly back to the food table. "And darling, if I start to fall, I'll simply fly. Such is the way of the Angel." He lazily hovered his hand over the table of food, looking over his shoulder at Kass as if to dare her to be more interesting. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

“Ah, so you’re an actor. I really cannot escape the world of theater, what a bother,” Kass mused, tossing her hair back and looking back at Peregrine. “I’m not an actress, not do I wish to be one. I was traveling with a band of them before coming here. If I can help it, I won’t be with them much longer. I was never destined to pretend…” “…As for you, I just hope they don’t clip your wings, Angel,” she gestured to her own false moth wings. “Sometimes angels don’t even get the chance to fly, so treasure your abilities while you can.” she sauntered over to the food table, stepping very close to him before reaching over and picking up something- not caring what it was- and popping it into her mouth. Two could play at that game. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"No, not an actor, but I was helped by one so perhaps he's rubbed off on me." Then he slyly grinned. "In more than one way, you could say." (heavy nsfw joke) Peregrine glanced at her, then back to the food. "Annoying bunch, aren't they? Though Otto certainly wouldn't be happy if I was so rude about him all the time. He has his flaws but I have my reasons." Peregrine didn't dare to frown, or really consider the possibility. "I make use of my wings. No one's tried to clip my wings so far, darling, because then what would they hold? What treasure would be left? No, my wings are priceless and no one would dare to damage them. In turn, no one would dare damage me." Following her hand, he picked up the same food and popped it into his mouth, then leaned over and made direct eye contact. "I'm too beautiful to hurt." @Morgan | Kass + Ren (edited)

Kass blinked, then nodded in understanding. “This Otto surely wouldn’t prefer to be described in such a light, unless that’s what he enjoys. Whatever brings one that kind of pleasure, yes?” she tilted her head to the side. Kass’s face then… lit up. For a woman that only smirked and spoke in an awkward manner, there seemed to be none of that in this moment. She placed her hands behind her back as her eyes crinkled ever so slightly and her mouth upturned into a… smile. And it looked to be genuine. Very genuine. “Angel… if I have your permission, may I touch your wings…?” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

Kal stared at the card. There were a few words that he was able to understand, but for the most part- Yeah, it was lost on him. Funny enough, he understood the Spanish bits more than English. “You got awesome cards, Darcy!” Kal grinned. “Man- I need to get mine printed at the place you get yours at, these are sweet!” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Darcy laughed, a bit awkwardly. "Ah, they're standard for all corps translators, and I don't know the actual printing company, but thank you! I've always thought the ink was rather pretty." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"After everything he's done for me, I should be singing his praises, really. But that gets boring after a while." He tilted his head slightly to the side in thought. "And he's not here so I can say what I like." Then Peregrine raised his eyebrows, amused. "How cute that you actually ask permission. Of course, darling." He ruffled his feathers slightly as if to tempt her with them. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

“Hmm, I’d quite like to hear you sing. I’m sure it would be just as ethereal as the rest of you.” Kass mused. As her hands were behind her back, she quickly slipped off one of her gloves with her free hand, exposing its skeletal glory once more. She closed the distance between Peregrine even more than she’d done before, as she revealed her exposed hand, and pressed it onto his wing. Her other hand found its way to his back, as if she were going to dip him, but in reality keeping him from struggling. She’d never admit it, but she was doing him a mercy. Struggling would only make it hurt more, and might actually cause harm. But Peregrine would feel as if the wing Kass was touching was being ripped forcefully from the bone, and then his back. He’d almost hear the snap as it theoretically broke and withered away. He’d feel the blood from what was still there and the sting of exposed skin and bone. But no harm was done, and his beautiful, pristine wings were still intact. Kass was now so close to him that her lips brushed the side of his face as she leaned in and whispered. “No one is too beautiful to hurt, Angel. I’m just warning you- and you gave me permission to do so. My own wings were clipped before I could be stupid enough to lose them myself. I’d advise you to be careful so that never happens to you. Because, it hurts.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Valerie glanced over her shoulder and looked over at Glass. "Oh! Hey. Its you." She paused for a second. "I don't think I ever got your name, my bad, dearie." She smiled. "Thank you~♡! You look mighty fine as well." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Aw, thanks! I'm glad I brought this, I didn't know we'd need to dress all formal." She laughed. "You can call me Glass!" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"It's real pretty, I like the font- The color's great, too. Graphic design really is someone passion, this looks fucking good." Kal grinned. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"If I ever find out who designed them, I'll be sure to pay forward your compliments!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Appreciate that, Darcy!" Kal chuckled. He slipped the card into his pocket and gave it a little pat pat. There, safe and snug. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Of course!" Darcy smiled, then looked out onto the crowd. "So, do you often attend events like this, yourself?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Things like this? Nah," Kal shook his head as he looked out towards everyone. "Nothin' this fancy, that's for sure. Sometimes I go to parties and events, but there's nothing that compares to this." Kal shifted slightly and let out a small laugh. "Ain't gonna lie, I even kinda feel like I don't belong here. Everyone's so fancy. This is definitely a rich-folk kind of fiesta, you know?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Peregrine raised an eyebrow as she revealed her hand but he didn't step back, he didn't try to escape - not until it hurt. His smile dropped from his face, replaced by real emotion, real horror, real fear. At first, he almost began to scream but then, then he noticed. The wing was fine. It was there. He was still there. Still worthwhile. And that was enough, for the sense to slot into his brain and he stayed quiet. Despite his usual act, he could be quiet. He was flexible. Nothing could hide the terror, confusion and, the strongest emotion he was feeling, utter panic. He stared Kass in the eye as she leaned in and whispered to him. Then he forced a smile and spoke, not whispered, "I can't be hurt. I'm the Angel. Angels can't be hurt." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"That makes sense. These sorts of things aren't for everyone." Darcy shrugged. He contemplated Kal's confession for a moment. "Hm.... it is a fancy gala run by a presumably very wealthy church, but I don't think that means you don't belong. They wouldn't have invited you if they didn't want you here, right?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kass didn’t move, though she eventually moved only her exposed hand away from his wing. Everything else stayed put. “I can make all that pain become reality, Angel. Once again, that was just a warning shot.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine waited for her to move her hand away and tried to push against the hand on his back. Then he smiled slightly at her. So much more obviously forced. "But why would you break your toy in the first game?" @Morgan | Kass + Ren

Kass raised an eyebrow. “You’re… my toy?” she shook her head. “That’s not right.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Kal didn't want to correct Darcy and say that he only felt this way because presently, this was fancier than what he was used to, but his words were kind and genuine. Kal smiled at the smaller man. "Yeah, you're right about that," Kal spoke softly. He nudged Darcy's shoulder with his elbow once more. "Thanks for that, bud, I 'preciate that a bunch. You got me feeling a whole lot better." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Well, the toy was an analogy, darling, but I am everyone's Angel." Peregrine smiled at her, regaining his smug nature. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"Of course, you're welcome." Darcy smiled up at Kal. He looked back out onto the crowd, then decided to change the subject. "I saw they had set out some food, if you'd like to get some dinner." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Are you a toy or an Angel? Those ideas can't exist at the same time," Kass smiled back, though it was nowhere near the smile she'd given him when she'd asked to touch his wings. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"I'm the Angel, darling." His smile could only grow. It was still forced but he was doing better at hiding that. "What's there to misunderstand?" @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"The fact that I was one an angel too," Kass nearly whispered. "Like you, I was never destined to fall." @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine only continued to smile. "That's such a shame. You'll just have to watch me fly." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

Kass forced a smile as well. "You won't get far, Angel. That is no longer a warning." @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"I have to say," Peregrine said, reaching carefully behind his back to move her hand on his back. "You've done a very good job of holding my attention." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

Kass let him go, though she didn't step away from him yet. "As you have mine. You're a pecuilar one, and I'd thought that to be the case the moment I laid eyes on you." she slid the glove back onto her exposed hand. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine took a step back and shook out his wings once her hand was back under the glove. "Most people think that about me, and then I give them more reason to stick around." He raised an eyebrow. Suggestively. Man. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"Oh man, I can eat," Kal chuckled. "I wouldn't mind goin' for some food! Want to go grab a bite?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

“And what is that reason?” Kass mirrored Peregrine’s expression- though hers held more question than anything else. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Everybody wants to have the Angel. Even if it's just for the night." He chuckled and turned back to the food table. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"I haven't eaten since the boat, so yes," Darcy laughed, and started towards the food tables. "The food on the boat was good, so I hope it's just as good on land." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Oh,” Kass laughed dryly and shook her head. “Those aren’t my intentions at all. You can rest easy, Angel.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"I wasn't asking you." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

“Good. Because I’m not interested.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine raised an eyebrow at her and looked very entertained, but he didn't say shit. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"I'm sure it is! Especially since they prepped it all here and it didn't have to travel anywhere," Kal stepped towards the tables and hummed as he looked over them all. God, his stomach was rumbly hungry. "This looks awesome." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

“…” Kass simply tilted her head, anticipating Peregrine’s next move. It was almost like the two were playing chess. Very fucked up chess. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"That's what everybody says when they get rejected." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"There's so many choices..." Darcy looked at all the food, but eventually settled on serving himself some curry with rice. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kass laughed. It sounded low and gravelly. “You really are full of yourself. Pity. You’re more of a lost cause than I thought,” she still didn’t move. “I never approached you to court you, as much as you refuse to believe. But I did get I wanted, so thank you, Angel.” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Kal immediately went towards some of the meats. He served himself several types of meats, along with some vegetables and a side of salad. Yum. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Peregrine chuckled as well. "Sure, sure." He gazed over the foods as if finding the debate on what to eat more interesting in whatever she had to say - though he did keep an eye out in case she got handsy. Usually he wouldn't mind that anymore but she'd established herself as... something. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"You don't believe me," Kass hummed. "Why is that?" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Look at me." He spread his wings out further and put a hand under his chin. "I'm rather handsome." Show-off. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"You're not my type." Kass said flatly. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Hasn't stopped people before. I'm the Angel. Unlike any other." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"It never started me in the first place. When I first laid eyes on you, I was not 'checking you out'." How much did she need to spell it out for this guy? Was he that dense? @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Whatever you say, darling," he teased. He picked up a little piece of food idk what and popped it in his mouth. Yum. "Mm." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"I think I've gotten all I want for now... though, I may come back for dessert." Darcy laughed, and looked up to Kal. "What about you?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"If you're trying to woo me, you should try harder, Angel. You're doing what most people call a piss poor job." she hummed, a twinge of amusement in her voice. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"It works for my usual audience." Peregrine shrugged. "So I suppose it wouldn't work on nobodies." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

Now Kass was fully amused. "Then you never had a chance with me to begin with. From what it sounds like, you're interested in status and a good lay. You flaunt around those wings and your title like they're all you have, and you'd be right. It's like you don't even have a name," she took a bite of some sort of food, probably cooler than whatever Peregrine was eating (in Kass standards). "I hate putting myself on the same level as a gutter pigeon like yourself, but you and I are more similar than you'd think Angel. And that makes me even more confident when I say I've gotten exactly what I've wanted from you." @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Mm hm." Peregrine continued to pick at the food, letting her talk, only looking entertained. "Is there anything wrong with wanting simple things?" He didn't even make eye contact. He was being careful around her but he was certainly acting incredibly bored of her. "And I've gotten my fair share of what I want out of you, darling. So if you don't mind, I'm sure there's more entertaining nobodies for me to talk to." @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"Good. Go find more nobodies to leech pleasure from," Kass continued to stare at Peregrine. "For, all I wanted from you was to learn your weaknesses, and in that regard, I have all I need. Watch your back, Angel. For even the mightiest will eventually fall. Though you are nothing but an ant for me to crush on the steps to my victory." and with nothing else to say, she turned her back on the man and walked away. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine laughed, loudly, just to make sure she heard he only found her entertaining. Even if it wasn't true. That was all he allowed her to know. @Morgan | Kass + Ren

"Dessert sounds awesome," Kal grinned. "I'll probably grab some of that too once I'm done with this. Some of that cake they have looks awesome." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Their baklava looked good, too. It's been forever since I've had good baklava." Darcy's rich-kid-ness might've been showing a bit. He led Kal over to one of the small tables. "I think this table is empty." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"A-.. What was that word you said? I don't think I've ever heard of it," Kal grinned. "Can you point that out to me when we go up there for dessert?" At the table, Kal nodded his head. Like the polite lad his Ma had raised, he pulled out the seat for Darcy. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Baklava! Its my favorite dessert," Darcy smiled. "It's a type of layered pastry made with nuts and honey. I'll definitely show you when we get our desserts." "Oh, thank you!" He said as Kal pulled out his chair. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Man, that sounds fancy as hell," Kal chuckled. "I'll definitely have to grab myself one or two of those. I've never had it." "And yeah, no problem!" Kal grinned. He set down his own place and took a seat of his own. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"You should try it, since they have it!" Darcy smiled. "I really enjoy it, myself." He began to eat his food. "Oh, this is really good! It's got just the right level of spice to it." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I definitely will. Don't think I've ever had the chance to try that, and who knows when I'll get the chance to do it again." Kal chuckled. He took a bite out of his food and nodded his head. "God damn- Whoever's throwing it down in that kitchen, they deserve some respect. This be HITTIN'." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"It'd be a good time to try!" Darcy nodded. "This whole tournament seems like a good time to try new things, honestly." He laughed at Kal's reaction. "We'll have to figure out whoever was responsible for cooking all this, and thank them." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Exactly! A great time for us to try new things. Every day's a learning experience, you know! You might find out that you like somethin' or that you're good at another thing." Kal chuckled as he took a sip of his drink. "Good times all around!" "Yeah man, for sure. They deserve a whole raise." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Taisto's endorsement didn't help Ekmeros all that much. He pursed his lips at the rejection but nodded in understanding. He's just an old man (36) trying to keep busy. "It is what I do as well." Aside from play the viol. "If you ever need help, do not hesitate to ask me." He nodded again, then turned to Taisto. "You are welcome," he added. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto nodded to what Zerada said, and swished his tail at Ekmeros' reply. "It is pretty cold to walk around, to be fair. If it wasn't so humid, the cold would be easier to bear", Taisto hummed. "If either of you need extra warmth, I have a few jumpers I can borrow. And wool socks. They keep you warm and dry in any weather. But yeah! Excited for the tournament?" Taisto spoke to the both of them. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐ @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

“Oh- Uhm- Thanks, I appreciate it,” Zerada nodded her head, seemingly a bit overwhelmed by Taisto’s kindness in particular. She tugged at the bottom of her shirt, unsure on what to do with her hands. “I appreciate that a lot, I do, but- It’s okay, I’ll make do with what I have.. I was also sure to grab a cloak. So. I think I- May be okay..” She took in a deep breath. “I’m- Fairly excited for this, yeah- I don’t know what to expect from it, but- I think it’ll be a good time..” @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Ekmeros nodded politely at the offer but did not say anything to accept it. "I have a cloak," he said after Zerada finished speaking. "I should also be okay." More nodding. The tournament. Right. The thing they briefly discussed before arriving to the gala. "It should be interesting." That was not really an answer to the question but sure. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Alright, well, the offer still stands in case you change your minds" Taisto smiled his chill, mildly sorrowful smile. "Yeah! It's a little vague still how this is going to go, but it's certainly going to be interesting. If not for anything else, then for all the powers everyone has. And for the setting. It's surely different than what I'm used to." @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

This conversation was. Somewhat giving Zerada pain. She should’ve just stayed in her room. “Th-thank you- I’ll keep that in mind if I get cold? Maybe at night.” She’d rather freeze than ask for help but she didn’t have to tell either of them that. “I don’t know- Anything about the tournament itself.. But I’m sure we’ll find out more information about the matches soon.” At the mention of powers, Zerada found herself wanting to ask what their abilities were, but she held the question back. In some cases, it felt almost rude to ask a potential opponent what their powers were. From there, she’d find out their weaknesses and- She was too tired for any of this right now. Far, far too tired. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Yes! Especially on a trip like this, it's good to broaden one's horizons!" Darcy smiled. "It's always a good time to learn, though. I wholeheartedly agree." "All the people here have been very kind." Darcy nodded. "I'm very impressed with it all, so far." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Yuga stepped in warily and quietly shivering, trying to find someplace more quiet and more out-of-the-way in the hall. Unfortunately the space had been arranged with mingling and dancing in mind, and didn't have very good secluded spots to stay. He had come here for the food, but right now the bountiful buffet with all its fragrant delicacies didn't call for him. He was hungry, but he felt incredibly out of place, and couldn't shake off the surreal feeling he had. Let alone he felt on the edge being so close to so many people, all out in the open. His outfit didn't have a hood or anything that could hide his head and face, and hiding his tail didn't make much sense if his face was already exposed. He whined quietly, as he made his way to one of the tables, keeping his head low and nervously eyeing the people in the gala. He needed to sit for a moment to gather himself. He figured that there were other nonhumans present, so he should be safe in that front, but he still felt like he didn't belong there, in such a peaceful, holy place. Even in his new, beautiful clothes and his clean fur he was still filthy, a stain in this pure place. And what did it matter if he could eat and enjoy himself now, in this dreamlike gala, when in no time he would be back in the city again with nothing. As cold and lost as before. The fox's face twisted with emotion, and he buried his face into his hands. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline (edited)

Unlike Yuga, Hannah seemed to be having no problems with the atmosphere. She had already gotten herself a small plate of food and drink, and was wandering around, getting a look at the crowd and trying to find a place to sit. "Hey, you're that third person in our room, right? I think I saw you come out of the bathroom." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga jumped at hearing Hannah's voice, and quickly took his hands off his face, looking up. He stared at the lady for a while, rather startled and visibly breathing a little heavier than he should. Then he blinked, recognizing Hannah's scent, and telling himself to calm down. He nodded, lingered for a moment, before standing up and bowing his head a bit. "Yes, I'm Yuga. Nice to meet you", he said with a scratchy voice. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

This conversation was. Somewhat giving Zerada pain. She should’ve just stayed in her room. “Th-thank you- I’ll keep that in mind if I get cold? Maybe at night.” She’d rather freeze than ask for help but she didn’t have to tell either of them that. “I don’t know- Anything about the tournament itself.. But I’m sure we’ll find out more information about the matches soon.” At the mention of powers, Zerada found herself wanting to ask what their abilities were, but she held the question back. In some cases, it felt almost rude to ask a potential opponent what their powers were. From there, she’d find out their weaknesses and- She was too tired for any of this right now. Far, far too tired. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ekmeros nodded to the offer still standing, then to the continued discussion of the tournament. This was going so well. "They did say there would be announcements made here, it will likely be about the tournament." There wasn’t really much else it could be about, he thought. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"The nights will probably get even colder", Taisto nodded. "Just ask anytime you feel you'd like some warm layers. My granny knits them and I like to wear them because they're pretty, but I'll be just fine without them. I don't really get cold. You can probably ask for extra blankets from the dedicants if you need, too", he smiled at Zerada. "True! They did mention that, huh. I'm eager to hear what they have to say", he said, turning to Ekmeros. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Zerada's expression-.. Seemingly softened. "Ah, your abuela makes them? That's-.. Very kind of you to offer them, but please, definitely hang onto something like that. That's definitely something to be cherished." She cleared her throat and shifted slightly on her feet. "I wonder as well.. Maybe it won't be too long before the go and speak to us about it." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

1:11 PM

"Exactlyyyy!! Nothing beats havin' a good vacation and learnin' a thing or two along the way," He chuckled. "Yeah, everyone's been real chill so far." Everyone, definitely. The guy's only spoken to someone he already knew, a friendly bird man, and now, Darcy. Still, he was sure everyone could be roped into that 'nice categeory. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Ekmeros, however, did not soften. Much the opposite - his shoulders squared and he awkwardly straightened up. "Yes," he said, though it wasn't clear which of them he was directing that to. Ekmeros avoided eye contact, his grip on the viol strap tightening, if possible. He didn't say anything in terms of the tournament, seeming content to let the other two discuss it more. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Well, she is technically my adoptive mother, but she's my adoptive sister's grandmother, so I call her granny too", he laughed lightly and scratched the back of his head. Complicated family tree. Oh boy this is not even the half of it. "She makes a lot of them. I have a bunch at home too. If she knew you, she would make you one of your own", he chuckled. "But yes, I love them very much. And her." Sorry Ekmeros the family talk doesn't stop. "Maybe. Who knows. They probably want to wait until everyone is here, but also not wait so long that people are leaving", he nodded, looking around for the church people. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Hannah seemed a bit weirded out at his strong response, but didn't say anything. "I'm Hannah, is there a reason you're standing out here all alone?" @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga stared at Hannah, a little out of countenance, trying to figure out if he understood her question right. "I standed up because it's polite?" he replied insecurely. Then he added, replying to the other potential meaning of her question. "I'm... alone because... I'm not good with people..?" You could say that. Better that than saying he was afraid of people. He was quiet for a second again, before saying: "Nice to meet you." @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline (edited)

"Ah. Have you met people that don't like you cuz'a your fur or somethin?" Hannah asked. "Uh, nice to meet you too. I guess we'll be seeing each other around a lot." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"Noo-one likes it", Yuga replied bitterly, and averted his gaze, quietly growling hardly audibly over the chatter in the room: "Orr some like it too much..." He looked back at Hannah and nodded. "Yes..." @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Exactlyyyy!! Nothing beats havin' a good vacation and learnin' a thing or two along the way," He chuckled. "Yeah, everyone's been real chill so far." Everyone, definitely. The guy's only spoken to someone he already knew, a friendly bird man, and now, Darcy. Still, he was sure everyone could be roped into that 'nice categeory. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Darcy smiled, and laughed. "I was speaking specifically of the staff, though, most everyone I've met so far has been nice. I did have a rather sour interaction early on the docks..." He trailed off, "But that was only one person." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I get that. I'm part animal too- well, in the sense that I can turn in to one. I won't bully ya for it." Hannah offered him a small smile. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Zerada tried not to have too much of a physical reaction to his words. However, she couldn't resist a small, almost sad, fond smile. "I apprecite that. Still, every thing she's made you, you should keep. I should have more than enough clothes to keep myself warm. Thank you, for that- Very generous offer.." She glanced around. "A good amount of people are here already. I'm sure it'll be a while before anyone leaves, so they do have time to do an announcement until then.." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

6:19 PM

"You did?" Kal asked as he raised an eyebrow. "Who was trying to square up with you?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"His name is Peregrine. He wasn't trying to fight me, he was just.... strange, and rude." Darcy shifted uncomfortably. "I would avoid him, if I were you." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Ah, Penguin. Yes, that'd be an easy name to remember. "Alright, well, thanks for the heads up," Kal nodded his head. "I'll keep an eye out for him. If he tries any funny business, though, don't worry, I can handle him." He took a bite out of his food, chewing it. Strange and rude, huh? He could be strange and rude back. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"He's got big wings, he'll be easy to spot," Darcy added. "Other than that, the only other rude person I've heard of is Roque, who was trying to intimidate a few of my friends. I haven't met her myself, though." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Alright, wing man, got it, I'll definitely be able to remember that," Kal nodded his head. "And- Rock? Alright, cool, cool, I'll remember her too. Know anythin' else about her?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"She has some sort of affiliation with blood, I think?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Oh shIT, a whole blood bender?" Kal blinked a few times. "God damn, that shit's craZY. Yeah, she definitely sounds like someone to stay away from." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Blood... Bender?" Darcy repeated, not quite understanding. "But yes, I would avoid her as well." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Yeah! It's from an anime, a bunch of the kids who drop by talk to me about things like that. They've been watching through one called 'Avatar,' and they can control different kinds of elements. People who use water can control the blood in people's bodies. I wonder if her powers are kinda like that?" Kal found himself curious, but still, cautious of course. But mostly curious. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Huh." Darcy mused, thinking hard about this information. He totally had context for what an anime was. "Interesting." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Aw, thanks! I'm glad I brought this, I didn't know we'd need to dress all formal." She laughed. "You can call me Glass!" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

@Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Right? It's pretty damn crazy- I've never thought of being able to use powers like that." He paused. "I wonder if that show's inspired people." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Hm. If it's popular enough, I suppose it's plausible." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Aw, thanks! I'm glad I brought this, I didn't know we'd need to dress all formal." She laughed. "You can call me Glass!" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Valerie shrugged. "I've been to plenty of these party things. Packed something because I knew I'd need it." She laughed a bit. "Names Valerie."

"Oh yeah, the kids love it. Guess we just gotta hope that kind of information doesn't get passed along to anyone bad," Kal chuckled. "Man, yeah, we'll definitely have to avoid her. I'll be sure to pass that along to my cousin so she knows." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Oh, really? How's this little shinding compare to what you've seen?" Glass hummed. "Nice to meet you, Valerie." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

7:34 PM

"Hm. I hope so, too." Darcy nodded. "You have a cousin here too?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Yeah!" Kal grinned. He glanced around the gala before he spotted Zerada. He pointed at her. Kal gushed, "There she is! That's my lil' baby cousin! Look at her, makin' friends, doing great things. She's got lightning powers and super speed. If you want another bud, definitely go and talk to her. She's a good kid." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Oh!" Darcy looked at Zerada in the crowd. She seemed to be talking to Ekmeros, which was good. Ekmeros seemed like a guy who could use more friends. "Lighting powers, hm? That sounds powerful. If you have nothing but good things to say about her, I'm sure she's wonderful!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Yeah, she's a good kid," Kal chuckled. "Definitely got power behind her punch, but she's good with handling herself. She's a biiiiit awkward at first, but she's workin' on it. I think you two would get along." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"I will definitely have to meet her, then!" Darcy hummed. "I can be a bit awkward myself, at times, so I understand." He paused. "Ah, what is her name?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Right- I should've said that first-" Kal laughed. "Her name's Zerada." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Zerada! That's an interesting name." Darcy nodded. "It's not too common, is it?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Nooope! As far as I know, she's, like, the only Zerada to exist." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"I've never met any Zeradas, myself, either." Darcy hummed. "Forgive me, the etymology of names is quite fascinating to me." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Nah, you're all good!" Kal reassured, though he had no idea what 'etymology' was. In fact, it didn't even feel like a real word. "Names are preeeeetty cool things." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Mmhmm!" Darcy smiled. "My own name means dark-haired, which is very fitting, if I say so myself." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Zerada tried not to have too much of a physical reaction to his words. However, she couldn't resist a small, almost sad, fond smile. "I apprecite that. Still, every thing she's made you, you should keep. I should have more than enough clothes to keep myself warm. Thank you, for that- Very generous offer.." She glanced around. "A good amount of people are here already. I'm sure it'll be a while before anyone leaves, so they do have time to do an announcement until then.." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ekmeros still said nothing, the strap of the viol case warped, bending over itself in his tight grip, and he absentmindedly nodded. He stared at the floor with furrowed brows, deep in thought. Both parts of the conversation inspired his mind but nothing moved his mouth. Man contemplating. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Really? Huh, that's pretty cool!" Kal chuckled. "Do you know what Zerada means? Or what Kal means?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Hmm.... well, the name Kal can have many different meanings across languages, but one such meaning is 'strong', another being 'eternity' and yet another being 'light'." Darcy explained, "As for Zerada, that name can mean 'prosperous', or 'gold-maker'! A very fortunate name to have." He laughed. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Really? Huh- I didn't know that!" Kal laughed. "That's so cool that you know that with your powers, that's awesome!!!"

9:56 PM

@innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"It's not always the most useful information to have, but it's a fun trick!" Darcy laughed. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"It's a cool trick, I like it!" Kal grinned. He gave a little clap clap with his hands. Very nice, a whole round of applause. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Thank you!" Darcy smiled. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"I get that. I'm part animal too- well, in the sense that I can turn in to one. I won't bully ya for it." Hannah offered him a small smile. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga looked at Hannah curiously and his nose wiggled as he inspected her scent. "Thanks.. Noo-one herre has been scared. It's good," he gave Hannah a small smile back.

soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ekmeros still said nothing, the strap of the viol case warped, bending over itself in his tight grip, and he absentmindedly nodded. He stared at the floor with furrowed brows, deep in thought. Both parts of the conversation inspired his mind but nothing moved his mouth. Man contemplating. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto was once again blissfully unaware of both Zerada's and Ekmeros' emotional reactions to his rambles. He wagged his tail slightly and gave Zerada a thumbs up. "Yup, that is true", he nodded. "By the way, did you happen to run into our other roommate, Su-Ji? It would be nice meeting him too, if possible." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐ @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

“No problem!” Kal grinned. By this point, his plate was pretty much empty. Dessert time? Mayhaps. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

11:12 PM

“Su-Ji?” At the mention of her boy’s name, Zerada grew a bit more lively. “Yeah, that’s my boy- He should be around here somewhere. He’s a good guy, you should be glad to have him as a roommate. You’d like him.” @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Your... boy?" Ekmeros echoed as he looked up, blinking in confusion. Zerada was certainly too young to have 'a boy' in what he defined it as. Well, maybe she was older? Somehow? Ekmeros studied her, narrowed eyes darting over her as he was quiet again. He's so good at conversation guys. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto smiled brightly, listening Zerada, and glanced at Ekmeros when he spoke too. "Oh, yeah? You're, friends? Family? That's awesome! Dang, I jumped into assumptions, but I'm glad I got his pronouns right", he chuckled awkwardly. Then, he snapped his fingers. "Right, I don't know your guys' ones. Let's do a quick pronoun round, yeah? He/him for me!" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Oh- Uh, Yeah-“ Zerada’s excitement deflated slightly. “He’s my friend. He’s a bit older than me. I knew him before we came here, so-… It’s just a pleasant surprise for us to both be here.” At the mention of pronouns, Zerada blinked. “.. She/Her..?” @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Ah." That made way more sense. Friends. That was what 'her boy' meant. Definitely knew that. Ekmeros nodded to the small explanation given. "It should be good to have a friend here." then his eyes flickered toward Taisto. He was quiet for a while then: "...he and.. him?" @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Great! Good to know", his tail swayed slightly as he pressed the pronouns in his memory. "And Ekmeros' right. It's nice there's someone you know you can rely on in an unfamiliar place like this. What a coincidence for you two", he smiled. "What's he like? If we see him we could go say hi." @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐ (edited)

“He’s- Uhm-“ Zerada paused. “He’s a catboy. He’s really smart, though. If you ever have any questions about anything, he’s your go-to. He’ll be able to help.” @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ekmeros blinked, then glanced at Taisto, quietly comparing the unknown Su-Ji to him. Then he looked over at Zerada and asked, "Do you know if he sheds?" @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Catboy?" Taisto blinked. His tail started tentatively wagging, but he didn't yet know if Zerada had meant an actual cat man or the uwu kind of catboy. He grinned at Ekmeros' question about Su-Ji shedding, which would be funny if he was just a poor little meow meow. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Darcy had finished up most of his food, too. "Hmmm... I think Now might be a good time to go get dessert!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“U-Uh- You know, I’ve never really noticed, and I haven’t really thought about it..” Zerada frowned. “I don’t think he does..” @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

8:29 AM

“Sounds great!” Kal grinned. “Maybe you can point that dessert out to me. I don’t think I even know how it could look like.” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Of course!" Darcy nodded, and stood up. He grabbed his plate, go put it away with the other dirty dishes and exchange it for a clean one. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Good, good." Hannah nodded. "I don't mean this is a mean way- but what are you exactly..? I don't think I've ever met someone like you." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga tensed up slightly, his ears shifted back, and his long, gently coiling tail lowered slowly. "...Ninetales", he replied. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline (edited)

"Ninetails..?" Hannah asked. She looked down toward his tail. ".. it looks like you just have the one?" @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga's ears pressed further back, and he looked away with a sullen expression. "Yes..." @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

Kal did the same. He stood before all of the sweets and look upon them eagerly. While he had a strict diet and a great work out routine, he wouldn’t mind indulging in a sweet or two. It all looked pretty great. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"..." Hannah stood there awkwardly. "Oh that might've been a bad question to ask I'm guessing something happened- yeesh.. Uh.. sorry." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga sighed stiffly. He couldn't deny that something had happened, though maybe not in the way Hannah was guessing. He shook his head lightly and looked back at Hannah. "It's ookay. I knoww it's weird", he attempted a smile but it was incredibly forced. He took a loose hold of his arms near the elbows, not quite hugging himself but almost. "Mm. You arr Wolf's frriend?" he asked to change the subject. "Arr you um. Dating?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline (edited)

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Oh, really? How's this little shinding compare to what you've seen?" Glass hummed. "Nice to meet you, Valerie." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Just fancy things I've been too for work.: Valerie shrugged. "When you're a boss you gotta make good first impressions, you know?"

Launa wandered in with Critter who had taken a larger form now. Likely due to the crowd of people already gathered as he placed himself at their side. Taking a breath as they ran a hand through Critter's fur before they walked in fully, doing their best to stay focused in the moment.

🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“U-Uh- You know, I’ve never really noticed, and I haven’t really thought about it..” Zerada frowned. “I don’t think he does..” @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Hm." Ekmeros tapped his chin thoughtfully. "I suppose we'll find out one way or another," he muttered in an all too ominous tone for a guy talking about cleaning a hair with catboy hair. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto looked from Zerada to Ekmeros and back, his tail still slowly moving from side to side, and a careful smile lingering on his lips. "Uh, when you say catboy, do you mean he looks kinda of like me? But more cat like? Like, hmm," Taisto seemed to concentrate, furrowing his eyebrows a little and his lips tightened. Then, his face started moving weirdly, like it was shrinking, while his head stayed the same size. His ears also shrunk, becoming a little rounder, thinner, and the fur in them became fair. Soon, his wolfish features had morphed into more delicate, cat-like features, and fellas, we truly have a real Cats 2019 in front of us, and we all know how weird and uncanny that is to look at. "Kinda like this?" Taisto asked eagerly. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kal did the same. He stood before all of the sweets and look upon them eagerly. While he had a strict diet and a great work out routine, he wouldn’t mind indulging in a sweet or two. It all looked pretty great. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Darcy looked around a bit before locating some triangle-shaped pastries. "Ah, here's the baklava!" He served himself a piece, then put one on Kal's plate @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Just fancy things I've been too for work.: Valerie shrugged. "When you're a boss you gotta make good first impressions, you know?"

"Oh, really? You do have the air of a woman in power." Glass nodded. "A boss of who, though, I wonder..." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Oh, really? You do have the air of a woman in power." Glass nodded. "A boss of who, though, I wonder..." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"The Gallo Family." Valerie said casually as she looked at her nails. "The Mafia family." Wow. She was so...casual about that??? Then she laughed, flashing her fangs. "But don't worry..I won't be causing any problems unless need be."

".. Wh.. What do you mean by that?" Zerada raised an eyebrow. She was about to ask Ekmeros for more details, but she found herself forced into silence when she saw how Taisto changed. She didn't judge, just was a bit surprised. "U-uh- Kind of-? But also- Not entirely, I-" Zerada frowned. "You may just have to meet him.." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

4:56 PM

Kal lifted his plate to his eyes, getting an ever better look at the treat as he rotated the plate. "Whooaaaaa... What did you say that this was again? Like, what's it made of?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Finally...the gala! Inu smiled as the three of them entered. They made it! For a second he was sure it wasn't going to work out but here they are. He turned to the two of them with a laugh. "We- we made it-! Hehe." He spun around slightly before he took a step forward. "And-and there's a dance floor too..." @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

"It's layers of pastry, with nuts and honey! I think this one's made with almond paste." Darcy explained. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

5:08 PM

"Huh." Glass replied. "Honestly, I don't really keep up with that sort of stuff, but good for you!" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Kal's eyes practically sparkled as he heard the description yet again. "And I- Eat it with a fork, right? Just- Cut it up and eat it?" He asked, still keep his gaze laser focused on the treat. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"We'll find out if he sheds." Ekmeros raised his eyebrow back. Then his other eyebrow raised as Taisto changed his form. Of course he had been aware that he could do that - after all, the Taisto he had met on the docks was not as furry as this version of him - but this was... still new, to say the least. "...oh." He tried to ignore it, to be frank, and turned back around. "...I don't mind if he sheds-" He almost immediately turned back slightly, glancing up and down at Taisto. "-or if you shed. I just want to know if I'll need to clean that as well." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Best that you don't." Valerie chuckled. "Don't want a pretty face like yours getting all roughed up." She winked. "I wouldn't want you wrapped up in all my business." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄) (edited)

"Aw, that's sweet of you," Glass slightly shifted her stance, "Though, I'm more than just a pretty face or a fragile little porcelain doll." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Finally...the gala! Inu smiled as the three of them entered. They made it! For a second he was sure it wasn't going to work out but here they are. He turned to the two of them with a laugh. "We- we made it-! Hehe." He spun around slightly before he took a step forward. "And-and there's a dance floor too..." @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Watching Inu’s little twirl and laugh, his heartbeat quickened again. He shook out his hands a few times to try to calm his heart. It hadn’t been that long since he discharged his electricity, right…? A dance floor, huh? “I don’t think anybody would care for the dances I do know…” He internally cringed at the thought of 3rd grade square dancing, and the one time his father attempted to teach him how to dance with a partner. @sketti @cap (edited)

Eben followed the two in, scanning the room quickly as he did so. He could how Inu seemed happy, and how Roy looked at him. He could only smile about them both to himself. He then heard Roy, looking to him. "I'm sure the dances you know will be alright. If you're still skeptical, I can teach you some other ones." Eben knew dances typical of traditional galas and dances, waltzing, slow dancing and the like, at least typical of whatever ones he'd attended. If the song was appropriate, he could easily do so with Roy or Inu. @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"I-I do..! I uhm..I don't know any dances." Inu said sheepishly. "I've uhm..I've never been to a party like this.." He glanced around, blinking curiously before he waved his arms up and down excitedly. "St-still..maybe we can have some fun right..?" He laughed. "I've uhm. I've never been this excited for..uhm..anything in awhile...am I uhm. Am I too excited..?" @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

He looked over to Inu, smiling at his enthusiasm. “You’re good bud, be as excited as ya want.” They deserved it. At Eben’s words he let out a little laugh and shook his head. “Ha, I promise you they aren’t…” He then processed the rest of the sentence. Dance? With him? Teach him to dance?? “Buh? Y-you’d do that..?” Gosh, he hasn’t danced with anyone since… ever. Was it warm in here? @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Taisto's tail, still a wolf one, started wagging excitedly, and he shifted back to his wolfish features. "Oh nice! I'm so excited to meet another furface, haha!" he smiled brightly. Then, he turned to Ekmeros, took a hold of his own tail. He took a tuft of hair in between his pointer finger and thumb, and pulled to demonstrate how it didn't come off. "No worries. Like I said, this stuff is tight. It only comes off if I want it to, or if I get injured", he grinned slightly. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐ @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Zerada slowly nodded her head again. She wasn’t sure if Su-Ji was a ‘furnace’ or not, but hey, maybe? “I’m sure you’ll meet him soon? He should be around somewhere..” Zerada cleared her throat. She was dying on the inside. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ekmeros watched Taisto's demonstration with a satisfied nod. "Good. Don't get injured." Immediately he winced internally at the phrasing - too late to change it and before he could properly correct himself, he found himself continuing, "In our room at least." Made it worse. Also dying on the inside. "Yes well, it would be good to meet him here." Ekmeros decided to stop talking there, casting a glance over the gala room. A lot of people. A 'catboy' would surely stick out. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kal's eyes practically sparkled as he heard the description yet again. "And I- Eat it with a fork, right? Just- Cut it up and eat it?" He asked, still keep his gaze laser focused on the treat. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Yes- though, they say the best way to eat it is with your hands!" Darcy explained, beaming. "That way, you don't crush the delicate pastry and can savor every bite!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto seemed almost touched by Ekmeros' concern for his health at first, but grinned and laughed when he continued. "Thanks, I probably won't unless you stab me in my sleep or something." "Yeah, hopefully we'll run into him. If he's your friend, I'm sure we'll get along, since you're a very nice person", he said to Zerada with a tailwag. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

He nodded as Roy spoke to Inu. It was nice seeing him not worried about something. He then turned to Roy after the man processed his statement. "I wouldn't have offered if I wasn't willing" he replied. "I promise it's no trouble." Eben couldn't fathom why he wanted to dance with Roy- not that he didn't like Roy or anything, he just hadn't wanted to dance. Ever. Even when he was learning how to he hated it. So why the change? Come to think of it, there was someone else he also wouldn't mind dancing with. He turned to Inu. "I could teach you as well if you would like, if you are both willing to take turns." @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu perked up at the idea, clapping his hands together excitedly. Yippe! "It...it all sounds super fun..." He grinned. "I-I think we can all learn a thing or two..mmm? From you Eben?" "We can like..uhm..rotate...you two first...then..uhm..I can dance with you Eben and then Roy?" He suggested. "That's fine with me..." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Aw, that's sweet of you," Glass slightly shifted her stance, "Though, I'm more than just a pretty face or a fragile little porcelain doll." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"I don't really want anyone getting involved if they aren't supposed to, really." Valerie shrugged. "You're not in a family, yeah? I don't doubt your strength, just don't want you getting hurt when you can fully avoid it."

"Yeah, Yeah. I get it." Glass said, though she still seemed upset, looking out onto the crowd instead of making eye contact with Valerie. It seemed she'd hit a metaphorical nerve. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

“Huh.” Kal hummed. He picked up his piece with his hand before he took a bite from it. Immediately, his eyes widened as the taste hit him. It felt as though a burst of flavor had gone off- A bomb of overwhelming umami had exploded, taking Kal right to flavor town. God daMN, this shit HIT! “Bruh- Darcy- This shit’s good!” Kal grinned. He finished off the rest of his piece before he reached for another. And another one. Okay, four wouldn’t hurt. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

8:25 AM

Zerada frowned slightly. “I also would like to avoid stabbing and violence, particularly in our room.” “Oh- Uh- Thank you..” Zerada cleared her throat. ‘Nice’ wasn’t a compliment she was used to receiving, especially this early into an interaction. It’s only been five minutes, and she was already deemed as ‘nice?’ That may have been poor thinking on Taisto’s part, but still. Appreciated? @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Ha! I knew you'd like it!" Darcy said after taking a bite from how own pastry, still beaming. "It's one of the best desserts in the world, I think." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Man, I wish I had treats like this growin’ up- This HITS.” Kal inhaled another treat. “I really think so! This has gotta be, like, top three desserts!” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu perked up at the idea, clapping his hands together excitedly. Yippe! "It...it all sounds super fun..." He grinned. "I-I think we can all learn a thing or two..mmm? From you Eben?" "We can like..uhm..rotate...you two first...then..uhm..I can dance with you Eben and then Roy?" He suggested. "That's fine with me..." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

“I- well, if you’re offering…” His face felt very warm. Dancing with the both of them…. His heart beat faster at the thought. He was probably just nervous, not wanting to mess up. It certainly wasn’t the thought of Eben holding him as they danced, looking into Inu’s multicolored eyes, no, it must have been nerves making his heart skip a beat. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Ekmeros just stared at Taisto. "...no one will be stabbing anyone," he said slowly. "Not in our room at least." It was a little odd for Taisto to compliment someone so quickly but Ekmeros assumed he was just in the habit of complimenting people. Zerada was fine, she had to be since they were roommates. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto's ears shifted back slightly and he waved his hand dismissively. "That was a joke, you guys don't need to take it so seriously", he smiled a little anxiously. Then he kind of just looked at his shoes and stood there, his tail slowly lowering, his anxious smile remaining. Was he doing a bad job at social interaction? Was he being annoying? He was starting to feel like his buddies didn't like him after all.. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Sorry, I’m just-” Zerada paused. “Used to- Having attempts in my life, is all. I forget that most people don’t typically- Have a life like mine.” God, she was saying too much. Backtrack, back pedal- “That’s a joke, too,” Zerada attempted. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Well, I am serious about no one stabbing each other in our room." Maybe if he said it a third time it'd be Bloody Mary rules and he'd accidentally have manifested someone getting stabbed in the room. So he decided to shift subject. Zerada had offered a new one at least. He wasn't sure if he wanted to pursue that. "...good joke," he replied with a blank tone. Great. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Taisto looked up at Zerada with his ears upright and a worried, alert expression on his face. When she declared it had been a joke, his ears shifted, and confusion was apparent on his face, though he tried to smile lightly. He wasn't suer which part had been a joke, or had the whole thing been one. "Uhm, heh, yeah... um. Sorry. I'll refrain from making violence jokes in the future", he scratched the base of his ear a bit and flicked it. He kind of wanted to ask what Zerada's life was like, but if that part wasn't a joke, then he wasn't sure if it was appropriate to ask. "Um. Do you want to eat? There's a buffet that looks pretty nice?" he said instead, to both of them. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“.. Thanks..” Zerada cleared her throat. She was serious too but she was ready for this interaction to end. “It’s okay, you don’t have to- Apologize for anything,” She sighed. “Look, I’m content and amused, this was- Fun, but I’m still- Full from earlier.” Which was a lie but she was Suffering™️ and Ready to yeET. “If you two would- Like to eat, you can, I may have to pass for now..” @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Eben nodded at Inu's suggestion. "Sounds equitable" he replied. [For plot reasons there is a slow, waltz-ish song playing.] Eben was fairly confident in the fact that his gloves and coat where a thick enough material to prevent skin contact, though he'd still be careful. He held out a hand to Roy. "Shall we?" @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Ekmeros nodded back to Zerada. Two very serious people. "This was fun." His tone did not carry that 'I am so happy to be here' tone but to be fair, Ekmeros' tone hadn't shifted too much aside from when he was incredibly confused. "...I am not hungry either, really. I think perhaps we should try to meet with other people. It may seem odd if we keep to ourselves during a tournament." Let him out of here. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Oh, yeah, okay. I don't actually need to eat. It's more of a social thing for me. But uh, yeah! There's a few people I'd like to meet. Um. Do you want to go our separate ways, then?" he turned to Ekmeros. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Isi hovered by the edge of the whole place, not quite entering the tabled area or the dance floor to talk to people. Everywhere she looked it seemed that people were already in conversation, and she would go talk to Roy but she'd... rather not intrude on all that. Roy would figure it out (though she might badger him about it later). For now though, they contented themselves to snack on some savory pastries that didn't have a smell of meat. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu glanced around the room before he spotted Isi and he wandered over. "Uhm, you're...Isi..right?" He asked. "We met on the boat and docks...and uhm." Hopefully he got it right. Would be pretty embarssing if he got it wrong.. @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Isi looked up when Inu approached and spoke, looking mildly surprised. "Oh, uh- yeah! I'm Isi, I remember you from the docks too-" In truth the memory was greatly helped by the fact that Isi thought his eyes were cool as hell. "Are you having fun here?" She asked conversationally, looked around the room. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"I-I am." Inu nodded. "This party seems very nice so far.." He wandered over to the food table, looking at the food curiously before he took a cookie and ate it. Nom. "The food is yummy.." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Isi nodded in agreement. She tried to follow Inu past a pillar but ended up having to stop and detangle an antler from a few streamers. "Yeah, I like the pastries!" She replied, finally detangling. "How are you, Roy, and- the other one- doing?" She didn't think she'd gotten the others name, but it was fine. She only asked since she'd seen they were rooming together, and walked in together. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"I've never really tried something like this before." Inu laughed a tiny bit. "I uhm...growing up..food..mmm.." He paused. "Not the best...but oh! uhm. Roy and Eben! W-we came here together..." He glanced over at the two. "I-I'm super excited...we are all gonna dance together and stuff...but since its in pairs...we're uhm, taking turns,.." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Eben nodded at Inu's suggestion. "Sounds equitable" he replied. [For plot reasons there is a slow, waltz-ish song playing.] Eben was fairly confident in the fact that his gloves and coat where a thick enough material to prevent skin contact, though he'd still be careful. He held out a hand to Roy. "Shall we?" @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Roy took a deep breath and took Eben’s hand. “I’ve got no idea what I’m doin’. Just to warn ya.” All he hoped is that he wouldn’t make a complete fool of himself, and that they would have fun. A light blush had colored his face. @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

“We’ll have plenty of time to speak at the room,” Zerada nodded her head. Thank god, she’d be able to feel like she could breathe again. “You two have a great rest of the night, okay?” @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Isi frowned a little at Inu's admittance, though she could tell he wanted to change the subject. "Yeah wasn't great for me neither, glad the food here is good though" she shrugged it off, laughing a little. "Oh, you guys are dancing? That's really sweet" she replied. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Eben simply looked Roy in the eyes. "I believe I have enough idea for the both of us." He interlaced his fingers and Roy's with his left hand and Roy's right, then guided Roy's other hand to rest on Ebens shoulder, resting his own hand on Roys waist lightly. As he did so, he tried his bed to keep his hands loose so as to let Roy step back or move his hands away if he wanted. "Mirror my steps." Roy was a bit taller than Eben, and he found himself looking slightly up at him, looking at the braid Inu had done. It was an odd feeling to only be able to have half of ones face feel warm. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

At first questioning why eating was just a 'social thing' for Taisto, Ekmeros nodded back to Zerada. "You as well." And with that, man's just. Walked off further into the room. Goodbye old man. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Okay, yeah. I'll see you gius later", Taisto waved to both Ekmeros and Zerada, and left as well. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Eben simply looked Roy in the eyes. "I believe I have enough idea for the both of us." He interlaced his fingers and Roy's with his left hand and Roy's right, then guided Roy's other hand to rest on Ebens shoulder, resting his own hand on Roys waist lightly. As he did so, he tried his bed to keep his hands loose so as to let Roy step back or move his hands away if he wanted. "Mirror my steps." Roy was a bit taller than Eben, and he found himself looking slightly up at him, looking at the braid Inu had done. It was an odd feeling to only be able to have half of ones face feel warm. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

Deep breaths, Roy. You can do this..! He tried to relax himself, attempting to get used to the feeling of Eben’s delicate but firm hold. “I’ll do my best.” Christ, his heart was beating faster than a jackrabbit’s. They hadn’t started dancing yet, so Roy had plenty of time to be entranced by the blush coloring the unpetrified parts of Eben’s face. It must be hot under all the clothes he was wearing. Surely.

The spirit strolled around, hoping his friendship with Ekmeros and Zerada wasn't ruined before it had even started. He shook his head and decided to perk up. There was many interesting people he wanted to meet, one of which seemed to be without company at the moment, near a buffet table. The winged man! Taisto arranged a smile on his face, though his droopy eyes made him always look a little sad, and he approached the shorter male with a small wave. "Hello! Are you enjoying the party?" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

After his delightful little talk with Kass, Peregrine had picked out a few more bits of food and was scoping out the gala. He smirked slightly as Taisto approached, though raised an eyebrow and slowly draaagged his eyes up and down his body. "I'm certainly enjoying the party, darling. Such an interesting group of people." This was entirely new, and thus even more intriguing to him. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

“Bye..” Zerada blinked a few times. This was one hell of an interaction. God, to think she still had the rest of the night left to survive. She went off into the crowd.

Darcy smiled between bites of baklava. "I'm glad you like it! I've tried making it before, myself, but, alas." He shook his head. "No luck there." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Eben started taking the steps of the dance, starting slow and giving Roy time to follow. "If you need to look down at your feet to keep track of the steps, please do so. I find it easier to watch my partners eyes and match pace" he advised quietly. His breath should have hit Roy's face as he talked, but there was barely anything there. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

"I'm sure you'll find a recipe that slaps! Hell, I might have to even take a look around for a video that can show me how to make it. You can always trust YouTube to never lie about anything ever." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Eben started taking the steps of the dance, starting slow and giving Roy time to follow. "If you need to look down at your feet to keep track of the steps, please do so. I find it easier to watch my partners eyes and match pace" he advised quietly. His breath should have hit Roy's face as he talked, but there was barely anything there. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

“Alright..” At that advice, Roy promptly stepped on Eben’s foot. “Shit! Sorry…” He stumbled a bit trying to resume the steps. He was doing his best to follow Eben’s guidance and keep his eyes on the footwork, but found his eyes drifting back to look at Eben’s face. Was he having fun? It was a bit hard to read his tone sometimes…

"That's the plan..!" Inu said excitedly. "I-I'm really excited to dance...I've uhm...never really done it before...but..." Inu smiled, his cheeks heating up a bit. Most notably..Inu's blush was more..galaxy colored instead of the typical color. Huh. "Mhm..! I think...we'll all h-have a fun night..mmm.." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Yeah, Yeah. I get it." Glass said, though she still seemed upset, looking out onto the crowd instead of making eye contact with Valerie. It seemed she'd hit a metaphorical nerve. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Valerie let out a small hum before she glanced towards the crowd. "Seems like people are hitting the dance floor and buffet. Wonder if there is anything good. You tried it?" She asked as she made her way over. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Eh, I can't eat." Glass said, unnervingly casually. "You're free to check it out, though." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Eben quickly moved a hand to steady Roy before replacing it. He chuckled, mainly at how startled Roy looked to have tripped and be caught. It was the first time he'd laughed, at the very least since meeting Roy. "Now that you're steady again, you are doing alright with this" Eben told him. "..it's nice having someone to teach" he admitted. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

9:12 PM

Isi smiled at how excited he was, but didn't know what to make of the blush or it's colour. It felt weird to ask 'why is your face purple/blue' because that really just made it sound like he was dying or something. "Yeah, the dancing looks really fun! I hope you guys have a great night, you're getting along pretty well, huh?" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Eben quickly moved a hand to steady Roy before replacing it. He chuckled, mainly at how startled Roy looked to have tripped and be caught. It was the first time he'd laughed, at the very least since meeting Roy. "Now that you're steady again, you are doing alright with this" Eben told him. "..it's nice having someone to teach" he admitted. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

Good god if his face wasn’t red already, it surely was now. Eben’s laugh sent a sort of fluttery feeling through his chest that Roy had no clue how to pin down. He was glad Eben was having fun. He had never tried any sort of dance like this, slow and so…. Intimate. As nervous as he felt, a smile was blooming across his face. “You’re a good teacher. I’ve… never done anythin’ like this before.”

Inu nodded along as he took another bite of the food. "This is..the first time I've had a lot of food like this and..everything.." He turned to the dance floor, watching the two. "Mmmjm...I'm..mmm..very grateful..for them being so nice and everything...you too, Isi.." He told her. @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

9:32 PM

"Huh." She blinked. "I probably should have guessed that.' Valerie turned to the food before she put some on her plate. "I just hope it's all good is all. That's my main concern." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Looks good. You'll have to tell me what it's like." Glass hummed. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Taisto's tail, still drooping low, raised a little and moved slightly from side to side. Darling? How sweet! (˶´꒳`˵) "It is! I've never seen this many nonhuman people, and even the humans have supernatural powers. So interesting! I'm glad to hear you're having a good time", his tail swished a little more. "My name is Taisto, what's your name?" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Oh Taisto. If only you knew who this man was. I mean, he'll happily tell you anyway. Peregrine tilted his head slightly. This one would do. "My name is Peregrine Marvell," he said, with a small flourish of his hand and in his tone. "I am quite the 'marvel', aren't I? Even in a room with..." He glanced around the room with narrowed, unimpressed eyes. "...this sort." He shook his head and continued the introduction with a slight bow. "But you can call me the Angel." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Taisto's eyes twinkled with mirth, and he grinned slightly. "Oh yes, you really are a marvel", he laughed brightly. "I love your outfit, and your wings! They are beautiful. Angel you say?" he seemed fascinated for a moment, but his excitement dimmed as he inspected Peregrine's scent. "You smell like a human, though?" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Peregrine held his chin high as Taisto complimented him. Yes, this was far more common, far more familiar, the sort of attention he really deserved and that he'd gotten used to enduring. At least he had enough sense to step away from the table before further opening his wings so they didn't knock everything over. He'd kept them open, as part of his outfit, but they hadn't been as widespread as they should have been to really show off. But at that little comment, they fell slightly, and he fell slightly, the flourish more hesitant. "A human?" His voice was... sharp. Disgusing disgust. "Ha. No. I'm no man, isn't that clear as day?" He ruffled his feathers until they caught Taisto's attention. "An angel." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Taisto's tears ticked back, and his head ducked slightly like he'd been hit, and his smile became anxious. "Ah, I'm sorry, I must have been mistaken. Of course a being like you could disguise your scent as well. I apologize. I personally find human scent hard to replicate, but luckily their noses aren't very sharp, so it hardly blows my cover", he chuckled nervously. "It's nice to meet you, though!" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

What a strange person. Ah, well, anything to boost his ego. Peregrine smiled. "You were mistaken, darling." He chuckled and chose to ignore the rambles about human scent. Nothing interesting, nothing to further this goal of satiating his ego. "It certainly is nice to meet me," he continued. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Taisto's smile became easier. Maybe he dodged a bullet? He didn't seem to notice that Peregrine didn't say it was nice to meet Taisto. Nah, he seemed to find it amusing that Pere bragged like that. He thought it was in a joking manner, and grinned. "Yeah!" his tail swished a little. "Your wings are really fascinating. Are they heavy? Can you fly with them? Oh, that might be a silly question-" @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Of course I can fly with them, darling, what would be the point otherwise? Well, other than making me even more attractive, of course, but they're only adding to what's already there." Peregrine put a hand under his chin with a smirk. Man. "And I suppose they are heavy but I've spent a lifetime with them. I can manage the extra weight." Everything out of this man's mouth sounded so flirty. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Taisto nodded as he listened to Peregrine flaunt his looks and wings. He chuckled a bit, and his tail moved in amusement. You couldn't exactly call him modest, but hey! Too many people put themselves down, right? He might have picked up on some flirtatious flavor in Peregrine's talk and behaviour, but surely that wasn't directed at him. Nah. He probably just was the flamboyant type. "You must be pretty strong then, no?" he tilted his head and gave Peregrine a friendly smile, before just admiring his sparkling wings. They were so pretty! And so shaped! "Um, would you mind if I um, looked at your wings a bit closer? Wings are really cool to me, I'd like to see how yours are structured, if that doesn't bother you, of course", he asked carefully. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"Sushi tastes food." Valerie tapped her cheek. "So that's a plus. I wonder if they have any meat or anything." She glanced at Glass before she flashed her fangs in a smile. "You see any?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Looks to me like they've mostly got fish and veggies." Glass said, glancing over the tables. "Though, I think I saw some chicken back there." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I'm sure you'll find a recipe that slaps! Hell, I might have to even take a look around for a video that can show me how to make it. You can always trust YouTube to never lie about anything ever." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"I hope so!" Darcy nodded. "Though, I suspect my failure might've had something to do with my lack of cooking experience." "You...tube?" He looked up to Kal in confusion. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Well, at least you can say that after that, you have more experience than you did before!” Kal grinned. “You made an effort, and that’s great! That’s how you improve, bud!” “Yeah, YouTube.” Kal grinned. He tilted his head slightly. “You don’t know what that is?” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"We aren't dating-" Hannah was quick to say. "We just met today, not to mention hes.. Mega-famous and totally out of my league anyway. There's no chance." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"I... can't say that I do." Darcy shook his head. The name didn't sound familiar, and he couldn't guess what Kal meant by context, either. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"My back is, at least, but I stay thin enough. Too much muscle would spoil the view." Peregrine chuckled, his wings slightly curling as if to flex the muscles. He raised a brow at the question - the fact that people asked really wasn't usual for him, and the last person who had asked had been that delightful Kass. But his smile softened the judgement, at least externally, and he nodded. "Of course, darling, you can do whatever you like." Most people did. He shifted so that one wing outstretched toward Taisto rather than in front and held up an inviting hand. No point in telling him to be careful. People rarely were. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"Oh- Well, it's super cool! You should check it out. People can make videos and put them on there for other people to watch! People get creative with their videos. It's just a fun place to watch videos at and help distract you from things that might be bugging you. Some people get famous off of it." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Oh- is it part of the World Wide Web?" Darcy asked, in the tone of someone who absolutely had never been on the internet before. "We haven't yet adapted to such modern innovations in Verend, I'm afraid." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Yeah, World Wide Web- The good ol' 'internets,'" Kal chuckled. "Man, if you guys don't have that there, I don't think you'd be able to make much use of my business card. All of my work is done primarily online and through websites like that." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Eben could be oblivious at times but he wasn't that oblivious at least not when Roy was inches from his face and they were dancing like this. He could pretty easily guess the source of Roy's nerves. And he didn't even mind. He liked it, even. And that was a problem. A really difficult problem. Nevertheless, he continued with the dance. "You are a fast learner. I will show you one more thing, but then I think it is time for Inu to learn." He allowed himself that at least, but he could feel himself losing focus with Roy and despite his thick coat and gloves he knew he was being risky. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

9:37 PM

"oh yeah, me too- this is like, the best place I've been in a while." She replied. She smiled to herself when Inu complimented her. Inu kind of felt like the type to compliment in order to spare feelings, but it didn't matter too much to her, it was still kind. "You're pretty great too, Inu." She smiled at him. "I think everyone here is pretty nice. I mean, everyone I've met- which isn't a lot, but still. I haven't even met two of my roommates yet" she laughed, rambling a little. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Oh, that's a shame." Darcy frowned. "I hope I can find some other way to support your work..." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"That's okay! You just knowin' my name is more than enough support for me," Kal laughed. "That, and your friendship is a great support to me! Much appreciated, bud!" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Oh, thank you!" Darcy's expression instantly shifted to a smile. "That's good to hear, because I can provide friendship in abundance!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"And that's exactly what I like a bunch!" Kal chuckled. "I'll give you tons of friendship back!" He held out a hand. "Right now- Let's make a whole handshake, alright? A good ol' classic secret handshake that no one else needs to know about." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Yes! It'll be like our very own secret code, that only we know!" Darcy began the handshake by clasping Kal's hand with his. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Eben could be oblivious at times but he wasn't that oblivious at least not when Roy was inches from his face and they were dancing like this. He could pretty easily guess the source of Roy's nerves. And he didn't even mind. He liked it, even. And that was a problem. A really difficult problem. Nevertheless, he continued with the dance. "You are a fast learner. I will show you one more thing, but then I think it is time for Inu to learn." He allowed himself that at least, but he could feel himself losing focus with Roy and despite his thick coat and gloves he knew he was being risky. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

Unfortunately for Roy, he was that oblivious. He decided that these new pleasant and warm feelings surely must be from him having not touched anyone in so long. Even between layers of rubber gloves and thick coats, the skin where Eben’s hands laid buzzed at the contact. That fluttery feeling in his chest came back as Eben complemented him again. “Ah, you’re doin’ all the work. I’m just followin’ your lead…” He looked down again to watch his steps, soaking in as much of the footwork as he could for when it was him and Inu’s turn together. “…Thank you for this. This is rather fun!” He felt very light as they stepped in tune with the music and each other.

"Exactlyyyy!!!" Kal grinned, showing off a sharp canine. Homeboy had sharp teeths. With that, Kal began to do some snazzy work for their handshake. A lil high five- Going down low, clap clap, snap crackle pop, tap tap- Bada bing, bada boom! "What do you think of that?" @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Yuga blinked. "O-oh. Okay." They were talking awfully intimate things for some people who just met, in Yuga's opinion, but he didn't say anything. He glanced at Hannah's plate. Food. Maybe he should go get some before others ate everything. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

Taisto chuckled. Spoil the view? He watched Pere flex his wings with a delighted smile, and when he got the permission to look closer, his tail perked up and swished a couple of times. Oh joy! "Oh, thank you so much!" he smiled warmly and stepped a little closer. Peregrine didn't need to tell the him to be careful. He was going to be regardless. Taisto's sorrowful eyes sparkled with the reflections from the feathers, and he carefully took a hold of the hand of the Angel's wing, lifting it slightly to feel how heavy it was. His claws became rounder and retracted into the fingers slightly, so that he wouldn't accidentally scratch Peregrine. He gently brushed his other hand across the primary feathers, before taking one between his fingers and feeling it, inspecting how it was structured. He moved to investigate the joints and the forearm part, as well as the secondary feathers, his tail quietly swishing and his eyes twinkling. He wanted to try how strong the wing muscles were, but didn't want to squeeze them to feel it. That seemed like a rude thing to do, regardless of what Pere had said. "Fascinating", he mumbled. "I've been studying wings for a long time, they're really interesting and kind of tricky. How you have working wings like this in a humanoid form, that's so cool! Do you have hollow bones? I assume magic has something to do with this, though..." he rambled as he studied the wings. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Looks to me like they've mostly got fish and veggies." Glass said, glancing over the tables. "Though, I think I saw some chicken back there." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Oh perfect." Valerie hummed happily. "Wonder if they have raw.." She mumbled to herself before she shrugged it off. "So. You're here for fun you said, hm?"

sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

"oh yeah, me too- this is like, the best place I've been in a while." She replied. She smiled to herself when Inu complimented her. Inu kind of felt like the type to compliment in order to spare feelings, but it didn't matter too much to her, it was still kind. "You're pretty great too, Inu." She smiled at him. "I think everyone here is pretty nice. I mean, everyone I've met- which isn't a lot, but still. I haven't even met two of my roommates yet" she laughed, rambling a little. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Mhm...my roommates are well..Roy, Eben and...Roque." He glanced around the gala before he turned back to Isi. "But..most people I've met seemed nice enough.." He scratched at his chin a bit. "So..uhm..mmmhm.."

Peregrine stood still, deadly still, and allowed himself to moved, his wing slack against Taisto's grip. This investigation was- well, it wasn't any more in depth than other investigations on him but usually people didn't have such a scientific exploration, if that was the right phrasing, of the wings. They'd be ogled, then he'd be ogled, then so on and so forth. But the patience he'd learnt still came in handy, no matter what kind of exploration it was. The performance at least wasn't necessary here, just the quiet waiting for it to be over. Peregrine barely moved, allowing Taisto to get lost in the wings. When he began to talk, Peregrine took that as his sign to show off again. "Certainly interesting, as am I." And that question caught him off-guard but he'd never show that, so he just chuckled. "I'm sure it's magic, darling, though I must admit I haven't bothered to check. Not really been any need to check." His wings fluttered slightly as he chuckled more deeply, and he spoke even more flirtatiously, almost a whisper, "Aren't you the quite thorough sort?" @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"Well, I'd say it's a good thing you haven't had a reason to check it. That means you haven't broken them before, I guess", Taisto mused, still focusing on the wings. At Pere's last remark, Taisto laughed, releasing the wing and swishing his tail. Bro, this binch is so dense the tone was completely lost on him. "I guess I am! I like to know what things and beings look like and how they work. I did a lot of research on birds and wings for the last few years, I have a lot of drawings of those, and I finally learned to form a perfect crow! But that's a whole different deal than your wings. These are the biggest wings I've ever seen. I'd love to draw them too", he chuckled softly with a serene, joyful smile. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

Darcy awkwardly mimicked Kal's movements. "I think it's wonderful! I've never had a secret handshake with someone before!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Oh perfect." Valerie hummed happily. "Wonder if they have raw.." She mumbled to herself before she shrugged it off. "So. You're here for fun you said, hm?"

"Yeah, had nothing better to do with my time. And, its not like these sorts of oppurtunities come every day," Glass shrugged. "What about you?" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

“Well, now you do!” Kal grinned. “Congrats on your first official super cool handshake, Darcy!” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Haha! Thank you!" Darcy smiled. "After all, without you, I wouldn't have the handshake at all!" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“And I wouldn’t have been able to try-” Kal had already forgotten what it was called, so he settled to just pointing at the plate of the dessert. “- That!! It’s super good, thanks a bunch, man!” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Oh, you're welcome!" Darcy laughed. "I'm very glad we met each other! Though, I do want to meet some of the other people here, so... perhaps, we could talk more later?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

3:19 PM

A few hours into the gala, Yeonaixho and Petrai stepped onto a small stage by the far end of the room. After a few minutes of struggling with a microphone, they addressed the audience. “Good evening, esteemed guests and temple staff,” Yeonaixho began, waiting for some of the noise of the crowd to die down. “I hope you all are enjoying yourselves, and the island at large. I ask that you give only a few minutes of your time to the Second and I, as we have a few announcements to make. First, Petrai would like to address some matters of security and safety on the island.” Yeonaixho stepped away from the microphone, and let Petrai step forth. She had to lower it from the microphone stand to reach it. “Good evening.” Petrai said, with none of the welcoming charisma Yeonaixho had said the phrase with. “It has come to my personal attention that some of the guests invited here disagree with our Church’s policies on self-restraint, decorum, and physical and spiritual modesty. Know that any dissent will be dealt with accordingly, and that none of you, no matter who you are, stand above the power of the Church. You are not in authority here, and you must abide by our rules. Do not attempt to hide your crimes, either. My abilities allow me to see what is going on in all corners of the island, at all times. There is no way to hide from my gaze, and therefore, the only way to avoid punishment for your sins is to not commit in the first place. I am watching each one of you.” A beat of silence followed, then Petrai handed the microphone back to Yeonaixho. “Thank you, Petrai,” He said, “For reminding us all of proper conduct on these sacred grounds. Now, onto a different matter-” He reached into his sleeve, and pulled out… a flower? It appeared to be a lily blossom, with five long, drooping petals, though it was entirely cast from gold. Yeonaixho held it up in the light, and let it glimmer and shine. “This,” He paused for effect, “Is a Gilded Lily, a rare and delicate treasure. It’s more than just a pretty thing, though. It’s your key to victory in this tournament. Every challenge you face will involve obtaining one of these flowers, and ensuring it remains free from harm. Your first begins now. Each of you will be given one lily, both as a gift and as a task. You must care for your lily, and keep it on your person at all times. If your lily is destroyed at any point during your stay on the island, you will be eliminated from the tournament. The temple staff will now distribute the lilies. Good luck!” The guards and dedicants fanned out among the crowd and began handing out lilies to each of the participants.

Your character is now in possession of one gilded lily. This lily can be targeted in combat, and has a total hp of 15. If your character's lily gets below 0 damage, your character will be eliminated. Lilies can be healed at the hospital.

@everyone

innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄) pinned a message to this channel. 7/19/2023 3:19 PM

“Aw, so cute,” Kal held his lily with both hands. gentlyhold

“So cool!! But yeah man, have fun! Take care of yourself, and be safe for the rest of the night!” @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Darcy tucked his own lily into his jacket pocket. "You too! Stay safe!" He waved goodbye to Kal before dissapearing into the crowd. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kal waved and went dancing into the crowd. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Launa took the Lily, cupping it in their hands as they held it to their chest. "Critter," they began to say, who for their part only rolled their eyes fondly as he lowered his head. "Only until the gala is over, this is your responsibility and I can not shift and maintain it's safety," he stated, Launa nodding as she placed the flower against his forehead. The shadows swirling forward to envelop the lily within Critter until only a slightly lighter color could be seen behind his eyes. The only indication of the change before he righted himself against Launa's side.

Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"Well, I'd say it's a good thing you haven't had a reason to check it. That means you haven't broken them before, I guess", Taisto mused, still focusing on the wings. At Pere's last remark, Taisto laughed, releasing the wing and swishing his tail. Bro, this binch is so dense the tone was completely lost on him. "I guess I am! I like to know what things and beings look like and how they work. I did a lot of research on birds and wings for the last few years, I have a lot of drawings of those, and I finally learned to form a perfect crow! But that's a whole different deal than your wings. These are the biggest wings I've ever seen. I'd love to draw them too", he chuckled softly with a serene, joyful smile. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

(nsfw comment. sorry petrai) "I'm not in the habit of trying to break them. Besides, they heal rather fast - if they didn't, my poor feathers would have been plucked clean off." Peregrine ran a hand through the gold tipped feathers on the outer layers of his wings. But as Taisto laughed, seeming to not realise the situation, he tilted his head curiously. A fun game this would be, if only Peregrine was paired with someone who knew what they were playing. A shame. Still, he could find half the fun in playing solo. "Darling, darling," he chided, "I'm no bird, remember. I'm the Angel." He didn't reply to the drawing request but did smile slightly. An artist. Cute. As Yeonaixho and Petrai took the stage, he paid some attention, side-eyeing just enough to show them - or, well, Petrai - that he was paying attention but wasn't invested. But even so, the wide smirk on his face as he specifically felt called out by her speech, and he held his chin high. There was certainly a joke to be made about angels and sin - but that wasn't the joke he made. Peregrine raised his voice enough for her to hear and said, "I didn't know this church allowed voyeurism. How fun." Once the lilies were handed out, he took one with a smug little smile, very proud of himself. Then he glanced at Taisto. "Pretty little things. They almost rival my beauty." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄) (bc of the comment at Petrai)

soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

(nsfw comment. sorry petrai) "I'm not in the habit of trying to break them. Besides, they heal rather fast - if they didn't, my poor feathers would have been plucked clean off." Peregrine ran a hand through the gold tipped feathers on the outer layers of his wings. But as Taisto laughed, seeming to not realise the situation, he tilted his head curiously. A fun game this would be, if only Peregrine was paired with someone who knew what they were playing. A shame. Still, he could find half the fun in playing solo. "Darling, darling," he chided, "I'm no bird, remember. I'm the Angel." He didn't reply to the drawing request but did smile slightly. An artist. Cute. As Yeonaixho and Petrai took the stage, he paid some attention, side-eyeing just enough to show them - or, well, Petrai - that he was paying attention but wasn't invested. But even so, the wide smirk on his face as he specifically felt called out by her speech, and he held his chin high. There was certainly a joke to be made about angels and sin - but that wasn't the joke he made. Peregrine raised his voice enough for her to hear and said, "I didn't know this church allowed voyeurism. How fun." Once the lilies were handed out, he took one with a smug little smile, very proud of himself. Then he glanced at Taisto. "Pretty little things. They almost rival my beauty." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄) (bc of the comment at Petrai)

Petrai simply glared at Peregrine.

Critter nudged Launa once the lily was safe. "Come on, you can't just stand around the whole time. You should at least try and talk to someone," he urged. Launa nodding as they surveyed the ballroom before noticing a someone. Placing their hand in Critter's mist for reassurance as he guided them over. "Hello" Launa greeted, wracking their brain for any kind of icebreaker, "are you enjoying the gala?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Valerie opened her mouth before Yeonaixho and Petrai started speaking. Instantly, she narrowed her eyes before rolling them, mumbling something under her breath. "I am watching each one of you.." She mocked before she huffed. "Creep." Though when she was gifted the flower, she adjusted her posture, taking it and gently putting it in her hair. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"She's definitely a weirdo." Glass nodded, twirling her flower in her hand. "Though, I guess that's what you get from weird cult people. Like, this is definitely a cult, right?" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Yeonaixho left the stage and began to wander back to his table, when he accidentally bumped into somebody. "Oh, pardon me. I didn't see you there!" He laughed.

Zerada had listened to the announcement from the hosts. She was quiet, silently making an opinion of her own as she took in their words. Do not attempt to hide your crimes. There is no way to hide from my gaze, and therefore, the only way to avoid punishment for your sins is to not commit in the first place. Her Catholic guilt was slowly rolling in. The slight paranoia of committing a sin, and then having to face judgement for it in the future, was already starting to come back. Wasn’t quite a feeling she liked. Petrai and the God-like stance, their abilities, their expression- Everything about her rubbed Zerada the wrong way. She would have to be on guard and be careful with every action, every word, every step, every breath- God, she felt stressed. Cradling her lily close, she was far too into her own mind to notice someone approaching. When the individual spoke, Zerada resisted the urge to jump and be on the offense. This event was a place for fun, peace, for social interaction. Fit the role, Zerada, don’t stand out. “I’m- Enjoying it immensely,” Zerada nodded her head as she looked to this individual. “It’s a nice place. Are you enjoying it, too?” @Shae | Launa + Critter

"Probably." Valerie shrugged. "Fucking weirdos. It's like those spam emails but in real life." She turned to Glass with a small smile before she clasped her hands together. "Welcome to the totally-not-a-cult-cult. We're totally not scientologists." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Hah, yeah." Glass nodded. "With their little matchy-matchy outfits and their..." She looked at the lily, "Weird flower thing. It's kinda silly, to be honest." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Hannah stood there in silence, until she followed his gaze. "Do you want some of this? I'm not really a huge fan.." Hannah said, holding her plate out. It mostly consisted of chicken. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

“Yeah, so far I mean. I ended up being late,” Launa admitted, “I’ve been trying to talk to people since we’re all here for the tournament but I’m not great at small talk.” “Introductions,” Critter guided, far too aware of his charge’s tendency to forget. “Oh, right. I’m Launa and this is Critter.” They introduced. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Zerada looked down at Critter, trying to comprehend the little guy. She wasn't- Too sure what she was looking at. However, she remained polite and nodded her head. "Well, a Gala's the perfect place to do that at. I'm not the best at talking to people either, but at least- We're making an attempt," Zerada tried to smile. "I'm Zerada, it's nice to meet you both." @Shae | Launa + Critter

“Zerada,” Launa repeated, committing the name to memory. “It’s nice to meet you too. And I guess you’re right, even if I’m bad at it the only way to get better is to improve. So better to just start talking and see where it goes. What do you think about the lilies? I wasn’t sure what to expect for this tournament but protecting a flower wasn’t what I was picturing.” @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"The lilies are-" She glanced down to it. "Interesting, I guess? I don't know what to think about it, but I'm not too impressed by it, if I'm honest. It's a good concept, but I can already imagine how easily someone can mess it up. But, I guess the tournament's not only supposed to test our abilities, but our other skills too, such as defense and how good we are at protecting things." @Shae | Launa + Critter

“Yeah, I mean it’s already uprooted so I’m theory it’ll start to decay in a week anyways. Unless they’re preserved in some way. I’m just worried if they’ll be rules about when we all sleep. Or if someone could come in and destroy them at night,” Launa pointed out. “Perhaps that is part of the test. Giving your flower some sort of defense while you sleep or trusting the people in the room to consider the room a sort of safe zone. Otherwise this tournament might end quicker than expected,” Critter offered. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Probably some weird-ass cult." She laughed a bit. "Fuckin weird. Are they trying to recruit us or somethin?" Valerie placed her hands on her hips, shaking her head. "I already deal with this back at home. I love my family but they tend to treat me like a godess sometimes. I can't stand it. I do not need to be in some weird cult thingy. Besides, people already call me the second-coming of Jesus Christ due to my powers." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Yeah. I bet they do... weird cult rituals." Glass hummed. "Seems like they might be." She raised an eyebrow as Valerie continued on. "Oh, really?" Glass titled her head to the side. "What might those powers might be?" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"I can change the chemical makeup up any solid, liquid or gas." Valerie hummed. "That is if I know the chemical makeup for what I want to change it too. Example." She picked up a glass of water and touched it...and the water turned red! It turned into wine! "Tada~" Valerie laughed. "Fun party trick." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Glass watched intently as Valerie demonstrated her powers. "Ohhh, nice, nice..." She nodded. "I can do about the same thing, just only with glass." She gestured for Valerie to hand her the glass of now-wine. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Eben nodded, letting off a small smile. He watched two very-official people mount the stage, and before the music could end he spun Roy around with a brief low catch, before setting him upright and then let go of his hands, maybe even a little sheepishly. "I suppose I did not teach that one so much as show, but apparently we are short on time." He told Roy apologetically, turning to watch the announcement before receiving the lily. He looked..very hesitant, even afraid to take it before actually touching it and realizing it was actually metal and not some sort of magic gold flower. He inspected it quietly. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

7:00 PM

Isi frowned. They vaguely knew Roque, not really enough to judge them as a roommate (maybe she'd just been stressed on the boat or something) but that didn't sound like good news. "Yeah- everyone I've met is nice so far. I'm rooming with Darcy, Titania and Peregrine- I don't know the last two, but I'll probably meet them soon" she replied. They paused to hear the announcement and received their lily, looking at it like someone had just handed them a voucher for a million dollars. It was so. pretty. Something felt...very off to her about petrai's statement. She hated the idea of being watched. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu froze up as the announcement went off and he frowned. Inu hid himself in his coat as Petrai continued. The idea of being watched constantly scared him. No. He didn't want to deal with it. Inu bit down on his lip and hung his head, staring directly at the ground as he felt his paranoia sink in. @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

7:28 PM

"I see." Valerie nodded. She guessed it was an interesting power. Glass was pretty chill. "Thats pretty neat." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Yeah. It's fun." Glass nodded, putting her hands on her hip. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Eben nodded, letting off a small smile. He watched two very-official people mount the stage, and before the music could end he spun Roy around with a brief low catch, before setting him upright and then let go of his hands, maybe even a little sheepishly. "I suppose I did not teach that one so much as show, but apparently we are short on time." He told Roy apologetically, turning to watch the announcement before receiving the lily. He looked..very hesitant, even afraid to take it before actually touching it and realizing it was actually metal and not some sort of magic gold flower. He inspected it quietly. @Sauce | Roy 🌩

The spun caught him a little off guard, but he was completely sidelined by the dip. Eben was surprisingly strong to hold up all six foot three of Roy’s lean body, and then bring him back up so quickly that he could barely process what had happened. That rush of excitement was as far as Roy’s mind got before his train of thought was interrupted by the announcement. ….a Lily, huh? Hopefully it’s resistant to electricity. He thought for a moment. If that person was being literal, it must be really overwhelming to see everything like that. Maybe that’s why they sound so grumpy. It was also pretty creepy. Other thought… Do the people who get eliminated have to leave? Surely not, that would be an inconvenient amount of traveling. Still, perhaps this would be an easier way to deal with his new, less than friendly, roomate… Back to his other roommate. He turned and smiled at Eben. “Well, that was a whole lotta fun! Haha! Ah, it’s Inu’s turn, yeah?” He quickly looked around for his third roommate, spotting them hiding in their coat alongside Isi.

"Ultimately, all of us are gonna lose, we can't keep it alive," Zerada sighed. She paused for a moment. "That wasn't something I considered. There are two people in a room, so you have to trust the other person." Thank fucking god Zerada had Su-Ji as a roommate. She knew that she could trust him. "I suppose that trust also could tie into the religious aspects of this island. There's a tremendous amount of trust and belief that a follower has to have. It's a group who builds a church: So, realistically speaking, we do have to create trust with one another, build a relationship, a sense of understanding." God, her head was definitely hurting now. "I don't know." @Shae | Launa + Critter

“Unless somebody has a power related to plants. Then they’d pretty much be a sure fire winner depending on their control,” Launa mused, “I guess that’s true. From what I learned earlier about this religion their pretty big on trust, kindness, and community. It would make sense that they want to give us a challenge that’s easier if we emulate those traits.” “Hopefully they’ll explain more rules to this as the tournament goes on to help clarify.” They spoke, sighing at all the ways their lily could get crushed. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"They could just easily manipulate the flowers and cause them to wilt," Zerada nodded her head. "How much would you like to bet that the flowers are, in a way, also are meant to represent our souls? In cherishing our lilies, we're cherishing ourselves. Others have the same lily, so it shows that we're the same, so we have to cherish each other. Some stuff like that, you know?" Zerada sighed. "But yeah, more information would've been nice." @Shae | Launa + Critter

Isi noticed Inu's distress after a moment, especially noticing how it seemed to only happen once Pertrai mentioned watching. She didn't like it either and it showed on her face, but they couldn't do anything about it so she looked for a distraction instead, for the both of them. She found it in the fact that both Roy and Eben seemed to be looking at Inu now, and figured her brief stab at socializing was over for now. "Oh! I think your roommates are looking at you- you were gonna dance with them, right?" @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

8:52 PM

"Yes, it is." He looked over at Inu, finding him standing next to the faun from earlier. To be honest, the announcement caused his mind to be quite preoccupied with things other than dancing. Being watched all the time? Vaguely threatening elimination? The implication that the church was near-encouraging people to seek out and destroy each other's lilies? He had known this was dubious going in but now he was even more concerned. Nevertheless, he did still want to dance. He also wanted Roy and Inu to dance. So he let the thoughts be for now. He figured he'd wait for inu to notice them and then gestured him over as the music resumed. @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu didn't respond to Isi, instead he squeezed his eyes shut, taking a few steps back. "I-I-I don't...I don't want to-" He shook his head. "I-I-I don't want to be w-watched." He mumbled. "I don't want to be- and I don't- I don't wanna get eliminated so easily- and-" Inu made a small whine. "I-I-" @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu didn't respond to Isi, instead he squeezed his eyes shut, taking a few steps back. "I-I-I don't...I don't want to-" He shook his head. "I-I-I don't want to be w-watched." He mumbled. "I don't want to be- and I don't- I don't wanna get eliminated so easily- and-" Inu made a small whine. "I-I-" @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

Roy had enough stress for one night, and decided to focus more on the moment than the slightly worrying implications of this new challenge. That can be saved for later tonight when his brain decides to think about everything but sleeping soundly. If the flower had to be on them at all times, that posed a problem. He didn’t really have anywhere convenient to put it. Maybe he could ask Inu to braid it into his hair… Speaking of Inu, he seemed to be struggling a bit. “Ah- hey! You alright?” He rushed over to where Inu was, worried for his friend. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

“So it’s all a metaphor then, huh,” Launa spoke, staring at Critter as they processed it. It did make sense but whether they were meant to realize the metaphor is another question. “We could always ask. I doubt they would deny answering a question outright. Getting clarification should be allowed from either this ‘Hand of God’ or his followers,” Critter pointed out. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I-.. Suppose that we could ask them," Zerada hummed as she glanced around to one of the staff members. "I'm sure they expected to be asked questions. I suppose we could ask." A part of Zerada did not want to go up and ask. She didn't want to draw attention to herself, not yet, not over something as small as a flower. @Shae | Launa + Critter

As soon as Isi noticed that Eben was basically verging on a panic attack, her eyes went a little wide, and she honestly didn't know how to help. She wasn't close enough to him to know what he needed. They basically ended up making rapid, obvious 'get over here ASAP' signals to Roy and Eben, which they barely had to do because it seemed the two were already speeding over. She stepped back a bit, scared of crowding him. As soon as Eben saw Inu step back and actually got a good look at his face, he instantly started going over, barely registering that Roy was doing the same. He only caught the last bits of what Inu was saying. "You are not going to be eliminated. Your abilities are powerful and you are intelligent and can use them as such." He has no fucking clue how to comfort, but wanted to try. He did not touch Inu on instinct, but he was standing close enough to be touched. He registered Roy talking to Inu. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S @Sauce | Roy 🌩

“Maybe later? Since this gala is a celebration of sorts maybe they’re waiting to give more instructions tomorrow after everyone’s settled in,” Launa spoke, the idea of talking to more people sounding tiring. “Very well,” Critter spoke, not willing to push the matter right now. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Inu glanced upwards as he saw Eben and Roy approach and he made a small sound. He bit down on his lip for a moment before he simply gave a small nod towards the two of them. His abilities being powerful? Maybe. Maybe if he knew how to control them better but at this stage? He felt pretty doomed. Inu shook his head rapidly to clear his thoughts before he hit himself on the head with his fist. "Stop...mm...thinking..like..that.." Inu mumbled to himself. "Stressful...'nough..." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

"That does make sense," Zerada nodded her head. "I'm sure there are plenty of people who are too distracted to really be able to listen to anything. Another announcement would be greatly appreciated." Zerada shifted on her feet slightly. "... Have you eaten yet? There's tables of food for us to get food from." @Shae | Launa + Critter

Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu glanced upwards as he saw Eben and Roy approach and he made a small sound. He bit down on his lip for a moment before he simply gave a small nod towards the two of them. His abilities being powerful? Maybe. Maybe if he knew how to control them better but at this stage? He felt pretty doomed. Inu shook his head rapidly to clear his thoughts before he hit himself on the head with his fist. "Stop...mm...thinking..like..that.." Inu mumbled to himself. "Stressful...'nough..." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

A sympathetic pain welled up in the pit of his stomach as Inu hit himself. “Hey- hey, let’s not do that, pain never makes anythin’ better.” Against every bit of better judgment, perhaps the night had been getting to him, Roy tentatively placed a gloved hand on Inu’s shoulder. He hoped the contact would help and not panic him more. “You’re gonna be alright, alright? We’re here for you, Inu.” Roy had plenty of experience comforting his sisters, he just hoped those tactics would apply here. @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S (edited)

“Oh, um,” Launa began, glancing over at the tables. They honestly hadn’t noticed them, too busy focusing on staying awake. “They have not,” Critter answered, nudging Launa forward when they faltered. “There’s quite the spread though, I’m not quite sure what to grab,” they admitted. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Isi feels like they're intruding, and it doesn't help that all the smells and the loud conversations and music are starting to overwhelm them. They decide to wait a few minutes to see if everything is okay, but plan on slipping out of the gala early. Eben reached out and blocked Inu's arm with his before Inu could hit himself again, not grabbing the arm, just placing his arm in the way, sure that wouldn't make it better. Roy seemed..better equiped to talk, but Eben was not leaving. Neurological disorders were not...had not been his specialty, but he did know enough to be aware that with narcolepsy, high emotions tended to worsen things. He'd promised he'd help. @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

Hannah stood there in silence, until she followed his gaze. "Do you want some of this? I'm not really a huge fan.." Hannah said, holding her plate out. It mostly consisted of chicken. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga looked at Hannah in surprise. Then, he smiled slightly and awkwardly, his tail moving a bit. "Yoou don't want it? Thanks, but I should get own plate", he replied. His attention was stolen by the two church heads when they gave their announcement. He stared at them in confusion. Especially Prtrai said a lot of words that he didn't understand, but the talk about sins and punishment made him uneasy. He shuddered. He didn't understand at first what purpose the flower had, before Yeonaixho repeated the task in simpler terms. He held the lily after receiving it, like it was made of thin ice, before gripping it and pressing against his chest. His suspicion and wariness against the other contestants only got greater. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

(nsfw comment. sorry petrai) "I'm not in the habit of trying to break them. Besides, they heal rather fast - if they didn't, my poor feathers would have been plucked clean off." Peregrine ran a hand through the gold tipped feathers on the outer layers of his wings. But as Taisto laughed, seeming to not realise the situation, he tilted his head curiously. A fun game this would be, if only Peregrine was paired with someone who knew what they were playing. A shame. Still, he could find half the fun in playing solo. "Darling, darling," he chided, "I'm no bird, remember. I'm the Angel." He didn't reply to the drawing request but did smile slightly. An artist. Cute. As Yeonaixho and Petrai took the stage, he paid some attention, side-eyeing just enough to show them - or, well, Petrai - that he was paying attention but wasn't invested. But even so, the wide smirk on his face as he specifically felt called out by her speech, and he held his chin high. There was certainly a joke to be made about angels and sin - but that wasn't the joke he made. Peregrine raised his voice enough for her to hear and said, "I didn't know this church allowed voyeurism. How fun." Once the lilies were handed out, he took one with a smug little smile, very proud of himself. Then he glanced at Taisto. "Pretty little things. They almost rival my beauty." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄) (bc of the comment at Petrai)

"Well, accidents happen", he shrugged his shoulders, but seemed a little concerned about the comment of his feathers being plucked out. "Oh, I know, I know. But birds have wings too, yeah? I'm especially interested in your wings because you are not a bird. The differences between you and them, how you can fly compared to how they do, and so on", he explained sith a relaxed smile and his tail still slowly swishing. Taisto's ears moved towards the stage when the fumbling with the microphone started. He turned to look that way once Yeonaixho spoke up. He smiled for a while, but during Petrai's speech his face fell, and he started looking a little confused and concerned. Had he done something that Petrai was referring to? He didn't think so but... had he? As Peregrine said his loud comment, Taisto turned to look at him utterly perplexed, his mouth slightly open and his ears tilting with his head. Huh?? When the rules about the lilies were explained, his expression became lighter again, and he held the flower between his fingers, spinning it around gently, before putting it in his breast pocket. "Yeah, they are pretty. Interesting rules, too. Kind of like stealing the flag, or whatever its name is in English," he mused, before turning to look at Peregrine with "hey what the fuck" -expression. "What was that that you said to the Second? She's a pretty scary lady, I wouldn't recommend comments like that, she might just kick you out or something. And how did you figure that out of her speech? It sounded like she meant quite the opposite of what you said." @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

"I'll be honest, I'm.. Not too sure, either," Zerada shifted on her feet slightly as she looked over the options. "I wouldn't mind having just a little bit to eat right now, just something small." @Shae | Launa + Critter

Inu flinched at Roy's touch and he looked at his hand for a few seconds before he squeezed his eyes shut with a nod. He took in a deep breath before letting it out. Breathe. Breathe. It's what he was told. After a few seconds, Inu brought his hands down and clapped them together tightly. "...Th-thank...you..mmm..that I didn't..' Inu turned away. "...Panic like that..? Hmm...I didn't mean..." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

Hannah turned to the speakers as well. Yeesh, this event was seeming less and less fun with every new thing she learned about it... And watching everyone at all times? Yeah, that reminded her of someone. Ugh. Hannah took the lily and held it awkwardly in front of her. It was an odd shaped thing to have to protect with her life- it would definitely get smacked around if she put it in her bag with the rest of her junk.. She'd have to figure out a better place for it. "Well all this is.. Interesting, ain't it?" @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga nodded, looking at Hannah's lily, then at Hannah, then at his own flower. He didn't really have pockets to didpose it to, and keeping it in his paws for the whole gala would be bothersome. He pondered for a moment, before he tucked the flower into his topknot, making sure it wouldn't fall. "What she said? I did underrsand.. did nOt unndrrrnsad.. undrresstand", Yuga huffed and shook his head in frustration. "What we can't do? Why she's angry?" He asked. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"She didn't give many specific examples of what to do.. I guess just act like you would at church... All the time now...?" Hannah shrugged. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"I don't go to churches. I have been to shrines, and temple", Yuga replied. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

".. I'm guessing the rules are similar..?" @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yga shrugged. He hadn't been to a temple many times, and he had been pretty small. He just remembered that he wasn't allowed to run and be loud. The shrines were similar, but they wouldn't stay long in them, just giving their offerings, praying, and leaving. "Just be quiet and wearr nice clothes?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline (edited)

"Probably.. Maybe they'll give us a little flier or something with more specific guidelines than just.. Behaving, for whatever that means here." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga nodded, but seemed uneasy. He had an eerie feeling Petrai knew his secrets and was somehow referring to them, but what could he do about any of that? He had been invited here regardless of everything, so it felt a little unfair if they were being jerks about his... background? Whatever it was. He couldn't help who he was. "Arrright..." @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

“I’m sure there are smaller foods to nibble on such as sandwiches, cut up fruit, or a selection of cheese and meat,” Critter offered, nudging Launa with his tail to get them moving. “Might as well,” Launa spoke, stepping towards the food as they settled on the smaller foods that didn’t take as much effort to eat. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Yeah. I dunno. The vibes are weird." Hannah sighed. "I think I should probably get going. I need to think about where to put this flower." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Yuga nodded again. "Yes. Goodbye." He bowed lightly, and moved to the buffet. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

Zerada took note of their dining choices. However, she didn’t comment on it as she also took smaller options to eat. Primarily, a few pieces of meat and vegetables. (edited)

1:37 PM

@Shae | Launa + Critter

“So what brought you here if you don’t mind me asking, what made you accept the invitation?” Launa asked, nibbling on a strawberry. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Oh- Well-” Zerada looked like she was at a loss for words for a moment. “I won’t lie, help in the form of a wish would be a big help for me. I guess I’m mostly just interested in that. How about you?” @Shae | Launa + Critter

"The wish does seem nice but I was more focused on the prize money," Launa admitted, "since a wish is kind of a broad thing I'm nor sure I'd know what to wish for. But money is nice to have and can help me get a few luxuries I couldn't otherwise afford." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Money’s always really great,” Zerada nodded her head. “With this kind of society, we need every penny and dollar we can get.” @Shae | Launa + Critter

"Hey, I have a question for you and your stinky friend there." Roque said as she approached Madeline and Albanes. Her lily was already out of view somewhere. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

Albanes had been watching the gala and not really talking to anyone other than Madeline, so Roque's sudden approach startled her. "Oh-" She quickly regained composure, and straightened her posture, but didn't seem to happy to see Roque. "... of course. What can I help you with?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

Madeline held her blank expression. "I'll need a list of exactly what I can't do. Whatever Ms. Peeper was talking about was much too vague for me.. How can I follow the rules if I don't know all of them? So yeah, if you could print that or write it out and mail it to me... I'll surely follow it." Roque said, moving one hand to her hip. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"A list of the island rules will be posted publically in this hallway tommorow." Albanes said, maintaining a cold, steady tone. "Until then, you can act as one might in any sacred place, or I can tell you the rules by oration." @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"Everything that lady did list goes quite against how I behave in my own sacred places.. So if you could list them all right now, I would be sooo happy." @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

"Yeah, it'd be nice not to have to worry about it at least for a little while. Even just being here is a nice break from it since our accommodations and basic necessities are taken care of," Launa added. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Albanes frowned, glanced to Madeline, then took in a deep breath. "Of course." "Of course, one of the first rules is to dress properly. Our church enforces a dress code, where all must be covered from neck, to wrists, to feet. This is not only in nature of modesty, but for your own protection, because of the environment." "Because we are a religious organization with tennants of self-restraint and peace, we forbid any guests or staff from acting provocativley. This includes starting fights, making threats, and harming or attempting to harm anyone on the island, whether they be temple staff members or other guests. We ask you treat everyone here with decorum and decency. Furthermore, any violent or destructive usage of powers is forbidden outside of sanctioned matches, especially if used against others." "Obviously, destruction or defacement of temple property is forbidden. As is drug usage, smoking, excessive drinking, and sexual relations, especially on temple grounds. We are a church, after all. We also ask guests not to use profane language within the chapel, and to act particularly respectful while there, and in the graveyard." "For your own safety, we ask that all guests remain on temple grounds from sundown to sunup, as the island wilds can get quite cold during the night. Furthermore, we advise against swimming in the seas." Once she was done, Albanes took in another breath, and looked up to Roque. "Do you have any questions?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

“Also true,” Zerada sighed. “It’s nice to have a bed- I’ve been traveling a lot lately, so I’ve been camping. It’s nice to not have to worry about any of that.” @Shae | Launa + Critter

A little late to the party, Wolf Woods finally arrived in his unbuttoned shirt, untied tie hanging loosely from his neck, and suit pants. He rose an eyebrow as he glanced around. What a party. He didn't know what to think about the flower he was given. It was strange. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"Hmmmmm... A whole lotta bullcrap is what I'm hearing. But thanks anyway." Roque rolled her eyes and.. Walked away. ".. Is she going to be like this the whole time.." Madeline whispered. @innsjo (glass🎸+ darcy🖋+ npcs❄)

5:24 PM

Right as Wolf was entering, it seemed that Hannah was finding her way out. She was pretty intently focused on the flower in her hands, and didn't see Wolf as she was going. @Sam | Su-Ji 🐯+ Wolf 🐺

"... Probably." Albanes frowned, watching Roque walk away. "But, if she does break the rules, she'll have to suffer the consequences." Albanes nodded, taking great comfort in the idea of Roque getting her just deserts. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

Wolf grinned, "oh!! Yo, Hannah! Are you leaving?" He called. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"Huh-?" Hannah suddenly jerked her head up and swung to the side, in turn slamming the toe of her boot in to the door frame. "Ow- uhh. Yeah, I figured you weren't coming.. Wouldn't be the first time someone had done that. Roque hasn't even shown up yet.. I figured.." Hannah paused, before she decided to stop talking. "So you still wanna have dinner?" @Sam | Su-Ji 🐯+ Wolf 🐺

"I had- some.... things to deal with." Wolf cleared his throat. "...Yeah- Dinner sounds great. If you're still up for it, that is." @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

Hannah did a small sniff, tilting her head to the side. "It smells like to me you already got some dinner." @Sam | Su-Ji 🐯+ Wolf 🐺

Wolf paused a little. "What..?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"You smell better than whatever food they have here." Hannah paused, her face turning a bit red. "You smell like meat- like- like- ugh.. Raw meat. From an animal." @samzart

Wolf paused, almost... alarmed. "You can-.. can smell that..?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"Of course I can. Sharply-honed predator senses. It's faint enough that I doubt anyone else can smell it." @samzart

Wolf blinked. "...Right..." he glanced around the room. "...That... That discussion can happen at a later time-" He attempted to shrug off the fact Hannah noticed that. "Have you eaten?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

".. I tried. But I wasn't really feeling what they had to offer." Hannah sighed. "And now with this whole flower thing I don't know if I want to keep standing around here without a safe place to put it." @samzart

"Yeah I don't... the flower things kinda weird." He replied. "I don't get it." He shrugged. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"We just have to keep it safe or whatever I guess...? One more thing to keep track of. I might try to clean out a space for it in my shoulder bag but it's just so full of junk.." @samzart

"I don't really have a place to put it... are we just expected to.. carry it everywhere...?" @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"I think so..? I guess if what we heard was true, Petrai is watching... So we might not be able to get away with leaving it out..? I dunno if that was just meant to make us paranoid, though." @samzart

Continuing his little boogie across the dance floor, Kal was having a pretty good time. He had tucked his lily into his shirt pocket for safe keeping. Kal took a breather and made his way out of the crowd. Homeboy was tired from his good lil' dance session. As he broke through the crowd, Kal spotted someone leaning against the wall off to the side of the gala. They were nursing a drink, and were dressed in a very- Very nice way. Kal appreciated their sense of fashion. With a grin, Kal approached. "Hey there! How you doin' tonight?" @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

(sorry for long post lol) Usually, a party made Ryunoske excited. She would always be the first on the dancefloor or singing karaoke with other members of her group--hell, even other rival members. Something about excessive drinking and partying just made people forget everything else. Though tonight, after helping Roque to her room, Ryu had left on her own to do some personal thinking. The people on this island varied from odd children to people of her own walk of life. That could prove problematic. Her thoughts continued as she had dress herself up for the gala. She didn't seem much different, beyond the fancier looking suit and fur coat she adorn. Wearing a light cologne and making sure her hair slick back perfectly, Ryunoske headed out to the gala. Whenever Juno and Petrai handed out the flowers, she couldn't help but scoff under her breath. Really? A flower could determine whether or not they would lose? How idiotic. Though, if that was the case, Ryu supposed she had no choice but to take care of it. Using the flower as a sort of corsage, she stuck it on her suit pocket. Her first course of action afterwards was to get a fucking drink. It would lighten up this party just a tad. It was only after she had gotten her hands on a glass and perch herself against an empty wall, did Ryunoske really take a look of her surroundings. There were some people she recognized, but what caught her eye was the form soon approaching her. She looked down at the man, cocking a brow, but smiled. "Doing fine. I can see you're enjoying yourself, though. Having fun on the dancefloor?" Ryunoske returned with a half smile through a sip of her glass. "You've already lost the tie. Not much for theatrics, huh?" He chuckled. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Can't help but go out there and hit the dance floor when a few good songs come on," Kal chuckled. "But, it's a bit hard to find a good way to dance the way I do to classical music." At the mention of his tie, Kal couldn't help but laugh. "Yeah, I figured it wouldn't last too long. It's more for the look at this point. Speakin' of looks, I'm a big fan of your fit! You got one hell of a sense of fashion." @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

Ryu downed the rest of her drink before replying to Kal, feeling much more like herself as she felt the alcohol enter her system. "Ah, any kind of music is the dancing kind. You just have to find your beat," she smiled and settled her glass onto a near by empty table. He let out another small chuckle as Kal complimented him and shrugged. "Thanks. I only pull this bad boy out every once in a while," Ryu said as she patted her shoulder of gray fur. "Speaking earlier of dancing though, care to join me on the floor? I imagine classical dancing isn't something you're too skilled in. I'm a pretty good lead," Ryu winked. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"That so? Wouldn't mind havin' a helpin' hand to find the beat," Kal chuckled. "I'll take you up on that invite, I'm sure I could learn a thing or two." He grinned. "But, I'm gonna need the name of my dance partner. Don't think I've caught it yet." @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

Ryunoske offered his hand to Kal and grinned. "You can call me Ryu. What about yours, party animal?" She chuckled warmly. "Or am I going to have to dance it out of you?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kal laughed and took the offered hand. "It'd be rude of me to ask you for your name, get it, and then not give you mine. The name's Kal, nice to meet ya', Ryu." @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

“No bed?” Launa spoke, their face looking distraught at the idea of not having a nice bed to retire to. “Yeah it’s a good thing we have those here.” “Not everyone spends so much of there day sleeping,” Critter interjected pointedly. “I suppose.” @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Well-" Zerada looked flustered for a moment. "I have a sleeping bag. I have a bed elsewhere, but when you're traveling, it's hard to carry a mattress with you." She sighed. "I wouldn't mind spending a good chunk of my day sleeping, though. I feel like I haven't gotten rest in- A long time." @Shae | Launa + Critter

"Kal? Like, short for Kallum or something?" Ryu joked a little as she took his hand and headed out to the floor. It didn't seem like there were many others out here, so Ryu took up all the space she wanted. And well, Kal and Ryu kinda needed a good amount of space anyways. They were both huge. She put her hand on Kal's waist while holding his other, falling into the lead's position. "Gotta say, it's not very often I dance with someone almost my height. What brings a man like yourself all the way out here?" @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Kallum? What kind of name's that? Nah, short for somethin' else," Kal grinned, showing off a sharp canine. He couldn't help but wink teasingly. "Maybe that's what you can try and dance out of me." "I'll admit, it's not often I dance with someone who's just a biiit taller than me. Appreciate it a bunch, though," Kal chuckled, easily letting her take the lead. "What can I say? I saw the invite, got a biiiit curious 'bout it, and figured I should come on out here and see what it's all about. I haven't met many Elemental Masters, either, so that's a big plus." @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

Ryunoske couldn't help but laugh. She started them off on a good foot, following the small beats to the music playing in the back. "I'll keep on guessing until you stop me. Kalsifer, Kallen, Kalei, Kali, Kalleb.." Ryu listed with a playful smile. She danced with Kal as he answered her question and she gave him a good look over. "Curiosity then, huh? You're not the first I met with the same motive. The whole 'church' thing didn't turn you off?" Ryu asked with a small chuckle. "Well, I'm sure you'll meet a whole bunch of different people here. They're are some interesting characters for sure." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“I spend a lot of my time sleeping. So the idea of doing that without the stability of a bed is um, not ideal. Rest is important to me,” Launa explained. “And yet too much sleep can be a detriment,” Critter warned, “still traveling. What king of places did you see?” @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kal smoothly followed along. He was a pretty good dancer in general, so it felt easy to be able to follow along to Ryu's steps. He laughed. "I think you're gonna run out of 'K' names by the end of the night. I don't think you'll get it." "Y'know, I'll be honest with you, I didn't really realize that it was gonna be a religious thing until I actually got here," Kal admitted with a sheepish grin. "Guess I should've taken a better look at it. There definitely are a bunch of cool people here- I met a dude earlier with a bird head. Like, body of a guy, but the head of a bird. I literally sound insane saying that but bruh, deadass, there's a bird-man. You should meet him if you haven't, he's pretty chill." @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

10:32 PM

"I get that, sleep's real important," Zerada nodded. "But it can be pretty rough if you get too much of it." Zerada wouldn't mind that problem, though. She'd take blissful unconscious any day over facing real life. Dear god, this girl wanted some of that good sleep. The kind where you wake up with the indents and red lines on your body from how heavily your body was sleeping. That sounded like a wonderful experience. "Well- Nowhere too crazy, I suppose," Zerada admitted. "I've been around a good amount of the United States. I've even traveled into parts of Mexico and Canada for a short while. Other than that, that's where I've been. How about yourselves, if you don't mind me asking? Have you done a good amount of traveling?" @Shae | Launa + Critter

"Well, you can't blame me for trying. Is Kal an acronym? 'Kegs, Arms, and Legs?'" She joked some more, laughing at her own sense of humor. She stepped into a small spin before resuming their side to side step. Despite both of their bulkiness, there was an odd sense of grace in their sway. Ryu made a face at Kal, both at the mention of a bird man and his apparent lack of self awareness. "I see.. Well, I'm sure this bird head fellow is difficult to miss. I'll keep an eye out. I am always open to meet even the strangest of people." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Actually, close, ’Knees, Arms, and Legs,’” Kal chuckled, finding it just as amusing. He continued to dance alongside her, keeping a hand to the small of her back before moving his hand, allowing her to perform another twirl without him getting in the way. “Almost had me figured out there for a second.” Kal nodded his head, not noticing the slight judgement. “He’s a cool guy, I think you’d like him. He’s got tons of stories to tell. So, how come someone with your great dancing skills came along to this island? Something catch your attention on the invite?” @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"Well, accidents happen", he shrugged his shoulders, but seemed a little concerned about the comment of his feathers being plucked out. "Oh, I know, I know. But birds have wings too, yeah? I'm especially interested in your wings because you are not a bird. The differences between you and them, how you can fly compared to how they do, and so on", he explained sith a relaxed smile and his tail still slowly swishing. Taisto's ears moved towards the stage when the fumbling with the microphone started. He turned to look that way once Yeonaixho spoke up. He smiled for a while, but during Petrai's speech his face fell, and he started looking a little confused and concerned. Had he done something that Petrai was referring to? He didn't think so but... had he? As Peregrine said his loud comment, Taisto turned to look at him utterly perplexed, his mouth slightly open and his ears tilting with his head. Huh?? When the rules about the lilies were explained, his expression became lighter again, and he held the flower between his fingers, spinning it around gently, before putting it in his breast pocket. "Yeah, they are pretty. Interesting rules, too. Kind of like stealing the flag, or whatever its name is in English," he mused, before turning to look at Peregrine with "hey what the fuck" -expression. "What was that that you said to the Second? She's a pretty scary lady, I wouldn't recommend comments like that, she might just kick you out or something. And how did you figure that out of her speech? It sounded like she meant quite the opposite of what you said." @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

Peregrine noticed the perplexed look on Taisto's face and it only made him held his head higher while Petrai's glare got his smile to grow. He twirled the lily in his fingers as well with a hum, deciding to not respond to Taisto's musing. It wasn't about him. Her laughed at the expression his face took and then the words he had for him. "Oh, I just like to play, darling. She's not scary, she's reactive, and I rather like that. Makes the playing much more fun." He raised a brow suggestively and eyed up the lily further. "It's not my fault she stumbled her way into innuendo, is it now? Besides, it'd be such a waste to throw me out. I just got here after all and I haven't even been able to have real fun yet." With a bored glance toward Taisto, Peregrine figured he wasn't going to get anything of value out of him and sighed, tucking the lily in his own pocket. "Galas are usually where I find it but alas..." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Taisto huffed slightly and shook his head. "I wouldn't test your luck with that if I were you", he hummed, and watched Peregrine's antics. He flicked his ear, tilted his head, and pondered what the other could possibly mean. "...Not sure what you consider 'fun' to be, but I'd make sure it's allowed here, just in case", he continued warily with a small frown and a slightly raised eyebrow. Then he hummed with laughter, and grinned a bit. "That lady is going to put you in one of those horny jails if you're not careful", he joked. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

(nsfw

) "Testing my luck and pushing limits is what I do, darling." Peregrine tilted his head back to tease - and maybe mock - Taisto. "And I'm rather good at it. I've been told I'm rather good at my 'fun' too." His smile grew, his teeth slightly visible through his lips. Was he wearing a very very well colour-matched nude lip gloss? Because they seemed to glisten slightly as his grin grew at Taisto's little joke - and he laughed slightly, then leaned closer and said, "The sort of fun I have, well, let's just say I wouldn't be alone in that jail."

9:22 AM

@Twig | Taisto + Yuga

Taisto didn't really catch that Peregrine might be mocking him, but his ears drew back, and his eyes slightly widened at the Angel's last remark. "Ah, right. I see", he said, smiling again but his brows slightly scrunched. It was hard to say if it was in a disapproving manner, concerned, or amused. Perhaps a little bit of all of them. "Well, maybe you'll find a partner in crime somewhere around here, though I still think it'd be better not to do something like that here. I do understand that an-" he paused before he could say "animals". "-That people have their urges, but surely you can wait til the end of this event? Then again, no risk, no fun, eh? You do you, of course", he shrugged. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

Ryu only laughed more at that. "I was close. You really are quite the funny man, Knees, Arms, and Legs," she chuckled. Her hands held Kal with a tender, yet firm hold. Definitely a stance of an experienced dancer. She grinned a bit at his question. "I'll keep an eye out.. As for myself, I'm just here for the cash," Ryu answered. She spun them once more, this time, dipping Kal in tune with the drop of the music behind them. "But the array of interesting people here is what's keeping my attention for the moment," she winked, an almost seductive smile on her lips. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Really? That’s sounds fun! I haven’t really traveled much. Until now I haven’t really had a reason to do this is the furthest I’ve been,” Launa explained, “but so far it’s been nice, the boat had a good view and this island has so many places to explore.” @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

(i think this might be the most obviously nsfw peregrine has ever been oh my god i'm sorry) Peregrine watched his ears with a small huff of laughter and narrowed his eyes in his own sense of amusement. "You see? Finally," he said with a put-on groan. "I have been dropping little hints, this entire time, darling! Tsk, tsk." He waggled his finger disapprovingly, shaking his head as he tutted. "Hopeless, you are." His smile remained but it didn't seem any friendlier. If anything, it was just meaner. "Like you say, and as the vague they say, no pain, no gain, mm? Unfortunately most here seem to be lawful citizens who won't dare go against the Hand of God." Peregrine put a hand under his chin contemplatively with a just-as-thoughtful hum. Oh no. ""Though I'd be willing to go against the Hand of God, if you catch my drift. Underneath or on top. When God tells you to get on your knees..." Thankfully he drifted off with a small chuckle. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

"Hints? For me?" Taisto was a little taken aback by that, and if he had been able to blush, he probably would have. However, his ears flattened back for a brief moment, as his eyes widened. He recovered quickly and shook his head slightly, smiling apologetically. "Well, that's not something I'd expect. It's not something that's on my mind normally." Taisto shrugged at his first comment about going against the church leader's will, but blinked and stared blankly when Peregrine got very explicit. He stared for a moment longer, perhaps deciphering everything he heard, and then looked around, this ears turning, to see if the church staff had been close by, and most importantly, if Yeonaixho himself had been in the earshot. Then, he turned to look back at the Angel. "Hmm, you are going after the biggest fish, huh? I doubt that's going to go anywhere but... I don't think you should be saying stuff like that so openly", he said quietly in a slightly reprimanding tone. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

“You got one hell of a sense of humor yourself, Ryu.” Kal chuckled. It was pretty nice to have someone to bounce jokes off of easily. As Ryu dipped him, Kal’s grin seemed to grow. He let the tips of his fingers brush against the floor as his body was lowered. “You can never go wrong with some cash, especially since I bet it’s gonna be a lot,” He chuckled. Amused, Kal couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow. “That so? Who’s got your attention here?” @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

1:54 PM

“I’m glad that you’ve been able to have a good time here,” Zerada nodded. “It’s a large island, you’ll definitely see a lot and get to do a lot of things here.” @Shae | Launa + Critter

“Yeah that’s true, so many new things to see. I just hope I’ll have enough time to see it all while watching over my flower,” Launa commented, “especially the greenhouse and the flower guardian. Maybe I can find out how these gilded lilies are made. Anything you’re excited to see?” @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I'm sure you'll have enough time to. Definitely stay on guard at all times," Zerada nodded. "It'd be good to ask what it's made out of. Then, you can find out the best way to protect it." Zerada paused. "I don't-.. Think that there's really anything I'm excited to see. I'm curious in some of the temple grounds? Or the chapel? I don't know much of this religion, but I'm sure I can find out more information about their deity there." @Shae | Launa + Critter

"It'll be a bit of a struggle for me since I'm not used to staying on guard or keeping an eye out but thankfully I have Critter to help me," Launa spoke, Critter puffing up slightly at being mentioned. Maybe they shouldn't be admitting their weaknesses but they didn't see the harm in it. "That's true, when I was talking to one of the followers on the boat they said any of the followers would be happy to talk about their religion. And while we aren't expected to take part in their services we are welcome to if we want" they shared. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"I think so..? I guess if what we heard was true, Petrai is watching... So we might not be able to get away with leaving it out..? I dunno if that was just meant to make us paranoid, though." @samzart

Wolf shrugged, rolling his eyes. "I don't think it'd br very good for the flower if I like. Shoved it on my pocket... so..."

"It's always good to have someone who could watch your back," Zerada nodded. "I'm glad that you have Critter to help you out." She glanced around towards the staff. "Yeah, that's true, I could probably ask anyone one of them about it.. It's good that they're not forcing it on us, but rather have information available if we do want to find more. I appreciate that." @Shae | Launa + Critter

"Yeah. I don't really have any pockets in this thing.." Hannah sighed. "I'm guessing Roque forgot about us already, so do you wanna head back to the room? I need to change and go find something different to eat." @samzart

"We could if you wanted to," he shrugged a little. "If there isnt anything noteworthy there then.. eh." @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"I think they mostly wanted us here to give us that little speech and the flower." Hannah said, taking a step back toward the door. "Where'd you find the meat at? The cold messes up my nose a bit, I don't think I'll be able to find it on my own out there." @samzart

"I-... uh.. I can show you.." Wolf hesitated a little before following her out the door. @Mads|Roque🩸+Hannah🦈+Madeline

"Me too," Launa spoke fondly, running a hand through Critter's head. "not sure how some people would've reacted if we had to participate. I'm sure if they mentioned mandatory service attendance a lot of people would be less interested. I probably still would've come for the prize but I would have thought about it more at the very least." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“I would’ve thought it over as well,” Zerada admitted with a sigh. “I don’t think i would’ve had it in me to deal with having a religion forced upon me. That’s tiring.” @Shae | Launa + Critter

Ryunoske winked playfully at Kal. "I figure myself a man of jokes. What's a party without a good laugh, yknow?" She mused as she looked down at Kal. Some of her blue hair fell out of its neat comb over, but Ryunoske was quite flawless otherwise. "There's never enough cash.. Even if it's a lot," Ryu hummed as she pulled Kal back up onto his feet. "Well, mainly the ladies. Each and every one is dazzling in their own right. It's hard to not want to spend all my time with them. The fact my first dance has gone to a man is a bit of a disappointment for me, but you're not half bad, so I guess it's fine," Ryu teased with a light laugh. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Exactly! What's the point if you can't bring on a few laughs?" Kal chuckled. His grin widened. "That so? Man, sorry to rob you of your first dance, but I hope I'm makin' it worthwhile for you, then. Hopefully, you get a nice lady for your second dance." @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

"True, not only worrying about challenges but also about making it to services and participating. It would be a bit much," Launa spoke, not to mention from what little she did know about religions a lot of them started early in the morning. And having to wake up would be her downfall for sure. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"If their goal was to wear us down, then that would've been a good way to do it." She sighed. Zerada finished with her food and quickly set the empty plate aside. "At least the food's good." @Shae | Launa + Critter

Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu flinched at Roy's touch and he looked at his hand for a few seconds before he squeezed his eyes shut with a nod. He took in a deep breath before letting it out. Breathe. Breathe. It's what he was told. After a few seconds, Inu brought his hands down and clapped them together tightly. "...Th-thank...you..mmm..that I didn't..' Inu turned away. "...Panic like that..? Hmm...I didn't mean..." @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Sauce | Roy 🌩

He didn’t entirely catch what Inu was saying, but did his best to interpret. He can’t promise Inu they’ll never get hurt, but… “Hey, we’ve got your back, Inu. You’re not gettin’ eliminated on my watch.” They seemed to be a bit calmer, he relaxed a bit and gave their arm a light squeeze before letting go. @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

"Then I suppose it's a good thing they're seeing us as guest, instead of just finding ways to end the tournament quickly," Launa spoke, they had only eaten two thirds of their plate but seemed satisfied, offering the rest to Critter who proceeded to absorb it. Launa putting the plate aside once he was done. "Their religion does seem to lean towards treating people well so it makes sense that as guest they'd make sure our food and accommodations are nice." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"For everyone, darling, but that does include you." Peregrine leaned forward toward Taisto's chest. "Right now I'm only talking to you, aren't I?" Suggestive little eyebrow raise. Peregrine. "Shame. It's usually on my mind. Makes people easy to please, and I find it easy enough. Gets me by." He chuckled into his hand. "My wings make for quite the unique experience, only one Angel after all. But I suppose you'll just have to miss out." He leaned away. Slut. Peregrine set his elbow on his arm, folding that against his chest, and sighed forlornly. Fake of course, what else is new? "Oh I know, typical of me, always trying for the things I can so rarely have. It's one of my few flaws." Toothy grin at Taisto, then he curved his hand against his chest. "If I kept quiet and suppressed every little sin that popped into my head, I wouldn't be where I am now. I certainly wouldn't. People usually like me loud." Peregrine. "It's a shame you turned out to be quite the bore, honestly, but I suppose you got something out of our conversation. You got to hold my pretty wings." @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

nsfw Taisto nodded slightly in understanding, and then firmly at the comment of Peregrine only talking right now. He believed the words rather than the leaning in and the raised eyebrow. "I can understand that. Most people are sexually active, I suppose", he pondered. "Oh... I see, the wings, huh? Don't they make things rather troublesome? Get in the way?" he asked genuinely. Then, he shook his head and shrugged. "I don't mind missing out. It's like missing out on a food I'm indifferent for." "There is a time and place for everything, and a place like this is kind of inappropriate for that sort of talk", Taisto continued to lecture. His ears lowered slightly at the rest of what Peregrine said, and he seemed a little ashamed. Why? Because he had disappointed the other! "Hmm... yes, I'm sorry about that. I just don't see where the fun lies in that sort of thing. But if there's something else I can do for you in turn, please let me know. It was very kind of you to let me study your wings", he smiled faintly. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

"I still think it's interesting that they're hosting a tournament for us and have so much provided. You don't usually hear about this kind of thing happening." Zerada bit back a yawn. "I think maybe conversion may be part of their invitation, it doesn't hurt them to invite people to learn about their religion and then have them willingly join." @Shae | Launa + Critter

"That's a good point," Critter said, thinking it over, "it's certainly a unique way to teach people about a religion. And their methods of providing all these accomadations without something in return is certainly generous." "Do tournaments usually provide things for their contestants? I've never been to one before so I've been assuming some of this is standard but I have no clue," Launa admitted. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"They do seem to have decent numbers. I'm sure they'd appreciate even more." "I'm.. Not too sure, I've never been to a tournament," Zerada frowned. "The closest thing I've been to that was like this was some summer camp event I went to a year or two back. Even then, that wasn't anything like this. They did feed us, though, which was appreciated." @Shae | Launa + Critter

"Then I guess we'll both be learning as this tournament progresses then," Launa said happily, "I haven't talked to too many others here. But the ones I did also weren't used to tournaments so at least a few of us are at the same experience level. It's nice knowing I'm not the only one a little lost at this whole thing." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Ryunoske laughed and she continued their sway on the floor, her coat elegantly following along with them. "I'm always more than happy to teach someone how to dance. Dancing is something I think everyone should have the joy of knowing," she replied with a small relaxed shrug. "But I wouldn't mind a pretty lady sweeping me off my feet either. I was going to come with one, but I split from her earlier. Hopefully she doesn't think I just flaked for no reason," Ryu hummed. "I image a broad such as yourself has a pretty woman waiting for you at home. Does she mind you dancing with someone else?" She teased. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“That’s kinda good to know, we’re all in the same boat here,” Zerada relaxed slightly. “No one really knows what to expect. Maybe that was part of the qualifications for the invites?” @Shae | Launa + Critter

8:04 AM

“Dancing’s pretty great, I’m glad to have a great teacher.” Kal grinned. “But hey, hopefully your buddy swings back around and steals you away from me. I wouldn’t be mad about it, you could get your dance in,” Kal chuckled. “And nah, there’s no partner back home for me. I’m a single man.” @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

“Oh, that’d make a lot of sense. Not just us having powers but also being new to tournaments. An equal footing to start off with,” Launa spoke, clapping their hands together at the idea. Critter wasn’t too sure if this was actually case as comparatively Launa hadn’t talked to many people. But it was a nice thought nonetheless. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"Oh?" Ryunoske tilted her head in a curious manner. "I find that rather hard to believe. Come on, not even one person you're interested in? Not even a crush or anything?" She teased with a small chuckle. "And perhaps my date will come back, but I don't doubt she probably found someone else to please her in my absense. A lady like her has men waiting on her hand and feet most of the time," Ryu smiled. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Zerada couldn’t help but nod her head in agreement. She took a glance around the Gala. “I’m sure there’s individuals who have more combat skills than others, but the thought of being on relatively ‘even ground’ is nice.” @Shae | Launa + Critter

11:12 AM

Kal laughed easily. “Nah, honest! I’m a bit too focused on my work to really go and get a relationship right now. It’s not really somethin’ at the top of my mind.” Kal grinned. “You sure, Ryu? Eh, I’m still holdin’ out hope for you.” @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

Inu nodded along to Roy and looked down at where Roy's hand was for a moment before he turned to the two of them. "I..I don't like the..idea of..being watched..." Inu mumbled. "It...it made my paranoia just...increase...nnm.." @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Ah. That. Roy shifted uncomfortably, the idea of being constantly watched was unsettling to say the least. But… one person couldn’t possibly comprehend seeing all of that at once, right? “Maybe it was just metaphorical and not literal? I don’t think a person could handle seeing everything at once.” He really hoped he was right. It’s not like he planned doing anything bad, but he hated the thought of constant surveillance. It might be their island, but it ain’t nice to put people on constant watch like that. …on the other hand it might just stop Roque from doing anything dangerous. Still, it wasn’t good. @capisnotonfire @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 (edited)

"Mm, I get that. Work can take top priority for most people," Ryunoske nodded. Not like she was any different, however. "What do you do for work, Mr. Knee, Arms, and Legs? I bet you'd make a killing in the male modeling industry," she smiled. "And nah. Don't sweat it too much. I don't need a fancy party to dance with a pretty lady, after all." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Probably, or some might have powers that are more combat based,” Launa admitted, “I know mine are hardly something that’s combat ready. But protecting a flower is a lot less strenuous in theory.” @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Kal grinned with a gleam of mischievousness to his gaze. “Yeah, I’ve done a lil’ somethin’ like that- But for the most part, I’m a streamer. I do work on YouTube and Twitch, and I stream my rock climbs. I tend to go all over the place. I actually just got back from California for this. Any of the money I make, I send it off to charities and foundations in my city.” With his free hand, he fished out one of his business cards from his back pocket. He extended it to Ryu. “In case you wanna check out some of my work, feel free to drop on by! You could even send me a message, it’s a great way to keep in touch.” He chuckled. “Yeah, you’re right. Any time is a good time to dance! You’ll get it sooner or later!” @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

12:27 PM

Zerada paused for a moment. “If.. You don’t mind me asking, I’m just a bit curious- What are your abilities? I’m sure you can still maybe figure out a way to use them defensively for yourself and your lily.” @Shae | Launa + Critter

“Astral projection. I can separate my spirit while my body is in a dream state. While there I’m in a space I call the in-between, I can see and hear the world around me but it’s muted and I can’t interact with it.” Launa explained, the words coming out slightly faster as this was something they found easy to talk about. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Really?” Zerada blinked. “Huh- I’ve never heard of anyone having a power like that. Are you.. Able to mess with the ‘in-between?’ Like, as if you were lucid dreaming? Or is it different?” @Shae | Launa + Critter

nsfw/ Ryunoske listened with a small hum, keeping their steps steady and well paced as she did so. "A rock climber who streams? That's quite an interesting combination," she commented. She wondered how many people actually watched his streams for that content, however. Ryu imagined more of them were there to see an attractive man do stunts. "I would of guessed you did some sort of cam work, if you simply told me you streamed," Ryu joked. She then looked down at the card Kal handed her and happily took it from his hand. "I'll keep you in mind. I wouldn't mind joining you on some of those climbs, actually. I don't get out much to the states. Much more of an east coast person." @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

Petrai returned to the stage after a few hours, and took the microphone in her hand. "The gala is now ending. Feel free to return to your rooms, or explore the rest of the temple grounds. Because of the weather, we advise not going outside temple grounds. Good night." @everyone

Eben's eyes shifted between them both as they talked. "There is not anything to be done about it either way, though I personally believe it would behave more as a constant awareness that they can choose to pinpoint rather than receiving everything all the time." He doubted anything he said was helpful or decreased Inu's worries but he didn't know what else to say. He stayed silent as Petrai made her announcement. "Perhaps we should leave." @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S @Sauce | Roy 🌩 Isi was way ahead of them, having already bolted the second attention was off her. She would infact not be returning to her room however, weather be damned.

Twig | Taisto + Yuga

nsfw Taisto nodded slightly in understanding, and then firmly at the comment of Peregrine only talking right now. He believed the words rather than the leaning in and the raised eyebrow. "I can understand that. Most people are sexually active, I suppose", he pondered. "Oh... I see, the wings, huh? Don't they make things rather troublesome? Get in the way?" he asked genuinely. Then, he shook his head and shrugged. "I don't mind missing out. It's like missing out on a food I'm indifferent for." "There is a time and place for everything, and a place like this is kind of inappropriate for that sort of talk", Taisto continued to lecture. His ears lowered slightly at the rest of what Peregrine said, and he seemed a little ashamed. Why? Because he had disappointed the other! "Hmm... yes, I'm sorry about that. I just don't see where the fun lies in that sort of thing. But if there's something else I can do for you in turn, please let me know. It was very kind of you to let me study your wings", he smiled faintly. @soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻 (edited)

"People like them," was all Peregrine said in response, brushing a lazy hand over the feathers again. "In all different ways." He chuckled lowly then let his hand drop back to his side, his wings staying open, outstretched, part of the outfit. As Taisto continued his lecture, Peregrine made sure his expression showed complete and utter boredom, rolling his eyes, clearly disinterested in anything Taisto had the same. "Yes, yes, it was lovely to talk to you too," he said dryly, checking his nails, then lifting his gaze to look around the room for... anyone more interesting. "Good chat, darling." And without a goodbye, he walked away. Rude. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

“Lucid dreaming is a good comparison for it. I can’t really mess with it too much but say if a door was closed here, if I was in the in-between I could just walk through it like it wasn’t.” Launa explained. Critter’s ears flicked forward at the announcement from Petrai. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

He frowned a bit, but then gave a small smile. “Ah, I guess I owe you a dance later then, Inu.” Sleep sounded nice. Whether his mind would allow it was another thing, but he was tired. “Let’s not worry ‘bout that for now. Let’s head back and get some rest.” Then a thought occurred. More stress… “Ah, have y’all picked out ‘yer rooms?” @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁 @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S

Inu nodded along to the both of them. He could..always dance with them later on, yeah. He couldn't help but feel a bit upset over it but in the end, Inu shrugged it off. "Mmmhm.." Inu rubbed his eyes a bit. "I haven't..really picked a bed...I'm okay with anything.." He headed towards the door. "I'll uhm..meet up with you two later.." @Sauce | Roy 🌩 @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

Eben was actually very miffed about being unable to dance with them both, he found it unfair, but said nothing as he found the sentiment irrational. "I've chosen a bed, yes." He looked to Inu, knowing where he was going, and knowing what he'd requested earlier. "Remember to guard it" he nodded at Inu's lily, returning his own hands to his pockets. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S @Sauce | Roy 🌩

He had hoped they could have walked back together, but Roy had made a promise. A small spike of anxiety quickened his heart at the thought of Inu getting hurt and being unable to help. “Be safe. If she does anythin’ to ya, tell us.” He spoke firmly but there was a pleading look in his eyes. He really wished he could protect them from this… With that, he watched Inu and Eben leave and headed towards his room. @Cap! | Valerie + Inu + NPC'S @sketti | Eben 🕶 + Isi 🍁

(NSFW) “I also do parkour, it started as that and then became more rock climbing,” Kal chuckled. At the mention of a particular line of work, Kal laughed once more. He didn’t look embarrassed or ashamed as he nodded his head. “I mean, I’ve done nothing as intimate or interactive as that. I’ve done a calendar shoot or two. That’s about it though. I made a shit load of money though, we afforded a ton of ventilators for a couple of hospitals in the area. I might do another one soon, it’s kinda becoming a yearly thing.” “Interested in climbing?” Kal grinned. “I’d love to show you a thing or two! I don’t have any climbing partners, if I’m honest, but hey, if you’re interested, I’d be up for it.” At the announcement, Kal frowned. “Man, looks like the party’s over, huh?” @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

2:06 PM

“Oh, Gotcha- Well, that’s still a cool ability.” It wouldn’t do much to protect a lily, but Zerada wasn’t gonna mention the obvious. She listened to the announcement quietly before she sighed. “I guess that wraps up things for the night.. This was- Good, I enjoyed talking to you.” @Shae | Launa + Critter

“Oh,” Launa spoke, finally tuning back in to the sounds beyond their conversation as they realized things were wrapping up. “You too! It was really nice to meet you Zerada!” Critter moved as soon as it looked like they were wrapping up. Placing himself further against Launa’s side as they leaned against him. Critter beginning to lead them away. “Have a good night Zerada. I hope your lily stays safe long enough for us to converse again.” He stated kindly. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

“Have a good night. You two stay safe.” Zerada offered them a small, small smile. She made her leave from the Gala. @Shae | Launa + Critter

Nsfw/ Ryu couldn't help but snicker as she listened to Kal. "Ah, but I was close, once again. I think if you ever thought about doing cam full time, you'd be quite the hit. It seems like your calender was," she mused. "I'm more of a boxer than rock climber, but all physical activity piques my interest. I like to know what I'm good and not good at in those terms," Ryunoske shrugged. Though, when the announcement was made, she turned and looked to Petrai with an almost disappointed expression. "I suppose that's it then. Guess I'll be seeing you later, Kal." Ryunsoke disengaged from the man and bowed her head to him like a good lead would. @🌙Vanessa🌙 | Zerada⚡+ Kal⭐

"I'll keep that in mind," Kal chuckled. "And really- A boxer?! Bruh- I do it on and off, maybe we can spar sooner or later! I'll definitely take you rock climbing, then maybe even you can try out some parkour shit." At the sound of the announcement, Kal nodded and gave Ryu a bow back, one that was just a bit more dramatic. "See you around, Ryu! Have a great night!" And with that, Kal made his exit. @Aj | Ryunoske+Titania

soul | peregrine 🎭 + ekmeros 🎻

"People like them," was all Peregrine said in response, brushing a lazy hand over the feathers again. "In all different ways." He chuckled lowly then let his hand drop back to his side, his wings staying open, outstretched, part of the outfit. As Taisto continued his lecture, Peregrine made sure his expression showed complete and utter boredom, rolling his eyes, clearly disinterested in anything Taisto had the same. "Yes, yes, it was lovely to talk to you too," he said dryly, checking his nails, then lifting his gaze to look around the room for... anyone more interesting. "Good chat, darling." And without a goodbye, he walked away. Rude. @Twig | Taisto + Yuga

(i'm sorry i was too tired last night to write a reply, but lets pretend this happened in time) Taisto couldn't imagine what the all different ways could be, and didn't want to ask. His ears lowered further, and he seemed anxious as Peregrine ignored him and walked away. He sighed and shook his head. The interactions here did not go well. Anxiety and tension were building up in him, and he felt the need to go run around or dig some holes in the ground. Something to ease the tension and release some energy. He walked out, head down and tail hanging low.