RP:Enchantment's Second Snowflake Soiree

Summary: Tiber and Lanara host the annual Snowflake Soiree at the Main Room of the Castle of Enchantment. The grand prize winners of the best dressed contest are Leoxander and Loravelle!

Part of the New Moon, New Motion Arc

Enchantment: Main Hall

(Post 1 of 2) Tiber :: The finest guards with freshly polished armor settle by the gates of the castle as the guests come in. A magical seal is placed around the premises of the towers, so no foolery can be played within the halls of the royal palace. Once stepping into the main hall of the enchanted kingdom, guests would pass magically, snow-dusted spruce and come into the clearing of winter’s captivating colors of white, silver, and striking, different shades of blue. Crystal snowflakes dangle from the tall ceiling as well as a large sparkling chandelier specifically for the event. The snowflakes softly twinkle and clank with the small breeze that trails in from the entrance. The fountain, in the middle of the hall, is decorated with glitter to make the stone reflect against the light protruding from the chandelier above as that is the true center piece of the Snowflake Soiree. Tables are set up around the hall as they are decorated with white table cloths and silver platters with make-shift dark and pale blue napkins. Candles ignite and sit on sanded tree-trunk slices as centerpieces at each table The centerpiece is also decorated with white-berried mistletoe and berryless holly to keep that natural feel to represent Enchantment, but also to keep with the color scheme of the Soiree. Best not to eat those white berries, however, as they are poisonous, so beware. No one wants to call poison control, okay? To the left of the hall a booth sits with a table of cosmetics. A new brand coming to life, it seems. Along with that side of the room, is a long table of food for the guests: meats, cheeses, fruits, salads, sweets, and more. Next to the long luxurious, hearty food table is an open-bar where a familiar wolfy Catalian lingers to serve up drinks next to the bartender as he is helping out with the cause for the Queen Lunalesca. The atmosphere is beguiling and the guests are too as they come in their grand attire.

(Post 2 of 2) That is not all the Soiree has to offer as forward there is a makeshift stage where young musicians are playing music as they were requested from the Bard’s College. Below the stage, a bard is taking requests for music throughout the ball. Also, there is a large box that says “Vote Here” for those who want to partake and vote for the Best Dressed Contest. A guard stands next to the box that way no shady behavior comes into play to rig the contest. In front of the stage is a large, dazzling, shiny dance floor for couples who want to shimmy their way to the dancing festivities. To the right of the ball, a large sparkly sign sits that says “Kissing Booth”, but next to the sign, guests are pressing their noses against dog’s for a slobbery wet puppy smooch. Really, this booth is set up for the famous Happy Tails to promote a certain Kelvarian’s Sanctuary in Sage. Off to the side of the puppy-love station is a place where guests can linger, stretch, talk and mingle. Sprigs of mistletoe hang from the ceilings purposefully to catch people and keep them on their toes and enjoy the spirit of the enchanting castle of Enchantment!

Tiber moves out from behind the bar when the crowd begins to grow. The bartender, Jiggs, slides a shot of honeyed whiskey towards the lycan, and automatically, Tiber throws the shot back before striding across the room to the stage up ahead. The man looks dapper, his stubble is freshly shaved, his hair is combed on each side while the curls settle on the top of his dirty blonde hair. Lanara tried to pluck his eyebrows before the shindig, but he was not having -any- of that. Tiberius is clad in a pair of sleek sapphire slacks and a matching sports coat. The man wears a white button-up underneath with a silver bow-tie that has a light amount of shimmer when the light hits it directly. The man tops it off with a black belt with a silver buckle and black dress shoes. He, of course, matches his beloved who stands in the crowd with the golden retriever in her arms. Tiber leaps up on the stage before staring out towards the crowd. He adjusts his bow tie in his confidently, sly way before waving out to the crowd to get their attention. “Hi, hey, hello!” He calls before a grin spreads across charming lips, as he can be suave when he needs to be. “Welcome, everyone, to the Snowflake Soiree. I’m your host Tiberius Lowell and I’m thankfully hosting with my beautiful wife who set up a kissing booth for people who -love- furry friends.” He eyes his wife who should be coming up on stage any minute, and once she does, he reaches a hand for her. “Honestly, this would not be a thing if it were not for our generous Queen Lunalesca, so I am very honored that she let us host such a beautiful ball tonight–plus, everyone loves an open-bar, am I right?” He points to a random person at the bar who is tossing back a shot. Some people laugh, some just stare around as they are trying to navigate the scene. “So, don’t forget to make your requests for music as we have college students from Schezerade here tonight. They’re amazing.” He would wait for people to clap before continuing. “So, I hope you brought your dancing shoes because it is time to live it up.” He would then look to his wife for her part in the hosting of the event.

Alvina :: To the far left of the stage sits a table, draped in matching silvers and light blues. Several students from the bard's college are wearing their finest for the soiree, taking turns circling the table and comparing the many samples scattered on the table top. It appears to be make-up, skin creams and the like, noted as being made with 'all natural ingredients'. The packaging matches the banner draped subtly across the front; an infinity symbol covered in simple flowers and leaves. The words ‘Vinebre Cosmetics’ are painted in script inside the loops, the image duplicated on a small stack of cards on the table's edge. The cards note Brennia and Alvina as contacts for specialist appointments for more custom formulas or requests.

Lanara steps out from behind the kissing booth, with an adorable golden retriever puppy held in her arms. She smiles at her husband as he makes his way to the stage and begins his little speech, and she waits on bated breath, as she will be joining him momentarily. Idly, her hand strokes the fur of the sleeping puppy, and the impressive chocolate diamond upon her ring finger flickers in the dim light. The retriever is passed off to a woman who will be caring for the animals and accepting donations for the duration of this event, and Lanara saunters across the room and joins Tiber on stage. She grabs his hand and beams at those that are gathered, delighted that so many have come to Enchantment on this magical evening, the month between the winter and spring solstice. Lana looks mesmerizing in a sapphire gown with a plunging neckline, and an overlay of blue lace that flows dramatically to the floor. She wears a silver bracelet upon each wrist and a pair of teardrop earrings dangle from each lobe, to add a hint of flair to her already exquisite ensemble. A pair of silver heels are worn on her feet, though of course they are covered by the fine fabric of the dress, and trailed by a small train. Long, lustrous, dark hair cascades to her elbows in loose waves, and her Vinabre Cosmetic’s makeup has been expertly applied to enhance her already fair face. After giving Tiber’s hand a squeeze, Lana sets her sights on the crowd, “Merry Meet! As most of you know I am Lanara Lowell, and I’m -thrilled- to be your hostess for the evening, beside my handsome husband!” She pauses as a few guests cheer and whistle, as they applaud the fact that the witch and the lycan have -finally- tied the knot. “We will announce the winners of the best dressed contest later on this evening, so make sure to place your votes and choose wisely, as the prize is incredible. Also, on your way over, feel free to stop by the kissing booth for some puppy kisses and kitty cuddles! You all look amazing and you are all obviously here to party, so please, feel free to eat, drink, and be merry!” Lanara concludes her announcement and peers up at Tiber, “Ready to mingle, Darling?”

Blaire had taken her concept from the event she'd attented as Miss Fortune and run with it to it's logical conclusion. The result was a figure-fit dress that wasn't quite a dress so much as seven long glittering ribbons in pearly cream color woven around her in a continuous spiral until it formed a dress, only they came apart and floated weightlessly around her like a blooming flower (or for that matter, an unusually thin and graceful octopus for the aquatically inclined) around her knees. The long trailing ribbons seeming to move at her whim as much as they floated idly like cloth underwater. The vampire made for a striking image of muted color that barely escaped monochrome, between her pale white skin, the color of the dress and her deep black hair. She'd even stuck with the theme and donned low heels that seemed to be made of glass or some other see through material. It was a far cry from her usual aesthetic, though even with her barely jaw-length hair, boyish face and leggy athletes figure, she wore it like someone long conditioned to it. Exhibiting a sort of practiced effortless grace. Still, she couldn't stick to the full fairy tale princess theme without a slight rebellion of it seemed. Even if it was against herself. She'd woven glowing threads of color into her hair as highlights and attached a large blue rose to the bustline of the ribbon dress. Matching the shining blue metallic color of the makeup she wore around her eyes and across her upper lip. The only elements of true color in the ensemble. Which only made the rest seem still more muted. That is, until she started moving and left a loose flurry of snowflakes in all the colors of the world behind to swirl in wide arcs behind her, each ribbon leaving behind a different general hue. And, incidentally, leaving a trail to follow for those who'd prefer to dodge the mistletoe as Blaire herself slinks past, around and between these dastardly traps like an animal dodging snare traps on her way to the bar. Where she immediately ruins the graceful lady facade by distracting the tender with conversation while one of the ribbons casually swipes a bottle.

Mathollak came in the snowiest, manliest two-piece suit he could find It was pristine white, almost twinkling, from the flaps of his collar to the soles of his shoe. His gloves were icy white too! But his buttons, like his two eyes, were so dark they must’ve been made out of coal. But as he sauntered from entrance to table, throwing back a shot and -immediately- being called out for his quickness in doing so, everyone who sees him beam could say they’d never seen a more jolly, happy soul. He stuck a corn-cob pipe between his lips and waved before blowing out glamoured smoke. In the moments before it dissipated, it shimmered green and wavy like the aurora above Frostmaw. And then he’d take off an old silk hat of shimmering black he’d found, and lower into a bow. It fit so snugly, it would probably stay in place even if he began to dance around. The only drawback of his icy-white suit, he realized as he hungrily slid his eyes along the food-table, was keeping it clean.

Terra had attended more of these events recently than she could recall attending in all the years past. Being around all the people, the noise, the emotions... it wasn't her favorite thing. This event felt different. Perhaps it was because the desire to celebrate was higher than normal. After all, her date the Titan of Winter had secured another victory but that didn't seem to be what she wanted to celebrated since she was careful to avoid the topic of the fight with people who wanted her opinion on the finale. Instead, it seemed she wanted to celebrate that her chosen contestant, who she always placed her bets on, had somehow survived it. That much was apparent by her presence tonight, how tightly she managed to hold on to his arm as they walked in. The sheer gold of her sleeve was lost in the crook of his arm but the delicate golden threading that started at her wrist trailed upwards and covered the bodice of her dress. Her neck was bare this evening, gone was the usual chain and necklace she wore, instead that pale skin vanished beneath the round neck of her gown, the sheer fabric still displaying skin until it dipped lower, skin replaced by the continuation of that shimmering thread, the swirl and design covering everything, down to her waist where the threads trailed off like vines in various directions, stopping midway down the thick, golden tulle that made up the ballroom gown look. All of her blonde hair had been gathered into a braid that started near her left pointed ear and finished with a rose garland flourish on her right side, keeping the excess braid pinned there. She's taller, likely a result of the golden heels concealed beneath all that dress. There's a few wisps of blonde hair hanging, a nervous tic that would be on display during conversations with strangers and a near constant eye for mistletoe, that deadly landmine that persisted through this season. Following the speech, she confirmed Tiber's musing when she found the bar to take advantage. While it's to be expected that Shishi would have some Blue Demon fans to contend with, it's unlikely that the blonde would ever be that far from her companion, even offering one of the blood wines she managed to procure to the champ.

Shishi hasn’t slept the last two nights. It is unclear whether or not this particular vampire does much sleeping normally, but the true issue with this lack of rest is that his daughter hasn’t slept a wink in that time either. She’s been pouring over every bit of information she can get her hands on regarding the God of Undeath since its abduction of Kanna following the Titans of Winter title fight, and this restless, manic energy has taken its toll on Blue just by being in proximity to it. The newly crowned five time champion arrives with Terra on his arm and a weary look in his eye, in stark contrast to the vampiric elf aglow beside him. He’s been commanded to adhere to a color theme, so the eyepatch covering his reinjured right eye appears to be made of solid gold. It does not however conceal the extent of the injury as the spidery veins of red burns and scars from Kanna’s dragon blood kiss peek out from all sides, most prominently running down his cheek towards his chin. Other than that and a yellowish jacket that he will remove as soon as he’s able, he’s dressed as he normally is for his Titanic appearances with the usual shirt and tie. Blood wine, “You’re a treasure.” Was he talking to her or the wine before he takes a large gulp from the glass?

Leoxander | Almost as surprising as the fact he’d actually shown up was that he had shaved, not that anyone would know it at first, given the covering over nose and mouth to spare him inhaling too much pixie dust right away. But the true miracle was the matter of his attire - Leo had actually, kind of dressed up. No suit and tie suited the rogue, but he wore a vest of Kreekitaka’s design, mottled brown vest with an emblem of a trilobite etched in glittering green opalescent thread on the left side of his chest. The shirt beneath is dark green, made of a similarly (and awkwardly shimmery) fabric as the emblem, matching the colors together. Dark denim pants were as fancy as he could do with such a detailed top, his usual laced up boots half hidden under cuffs. But the most bewildering part of the Uyeer’s craft would be the reaction when he actually made physical contact with Loravelle. Like her dress, veins of bright electric blue light would spark up across the clothing, pulsing in time with the wearer’s heartbeat, which was significantly quick given the notice Kree’s handiwork might draw. That elementary vest would shift into chromatic colors to match whatever the fabric on the maidservants frame changed to. Leo thought the crustacean knew the rogue well enough - but perhaps he’d sabotaged his subtlety on purpose. Tiber’s speech plays on one point true for the pirate, as his gaze drifts across the lavish scenery but pinpoints on the open bar. His timid date might guess where he’d be headed first, but he walked at her side.

Loravelle chickened out at the last minute about wearing something as dangerously skimpy as her sundress. Instead, she chose the second of Kree's creations that she now owned. Designed to compliment Leoxander's outfit, the dress is hooded and wildly colorful, made of something better than her preferred silk. It even has a similar trilobite symbol embroidered on it in opalescent green thread to the rogue's, though hers is placed on the back just below the nape of her neck, to mark it as one of Kreekitaka's designs. Every movement causes a change in the materials color, and it even reacts somewhat to changes in her mood. It took some doing, but Lora somehow managed to figure out how to maintain the fabric as a single shade of green to match Leo's shirt, and hold it in that shade. Constantly thinking of the color seemed to do the trick, at least for now. She is covered from chin to foot in a long-sleeved dress whose skirt and sleeves billow and flow as if they're weightless around her. The majority of the dress is covered in a strange, occasionally colorless embroidery, creating a symmetrical design along her sleeves, bodice and skirt in a manner that evokes imagery of veins beneath flesh. Near transparent tulle made of some form of sea-silk falls to the floor, gathered at either hip in contrast to the rest of the embroidery-covered gown and to act as an anchor of sorts, so her skirt doesn't fly up in an embarrassing fashion. Its dye, or perhaps magic (alchemy, she'll insist. Don't tell her that it's magic), bleeds into different hues in time with the embroidery to compliment the green. Electric blue pulses that appear in time with her heartbeat which is thumping wildly, due to her nerves, along with gold seem to be the colors both elements of the dress transition into most often, but occasionally there's a rare bleed of scarlet. Instead of keeping the hood up, or wearing a headscarf of fancy updo at all, Lora made the shocking decision to keep her hair down, bound together in an inky black braid that flows down to just below her backside. Finding matching shoes was near impossible due to the nature of the gown, but black goes with everything and nobody is going to see her feet, so black ballerina flats it is to hide her branded feet. Though not much of a drinker, she's absolutely of the same mind as her date and needs to knock something back to make her nerves settle down. She'll follow Leo's lead.

Talyara would not miss this evening for anything, especially as it was to celebrate her sister and her beloved. Talyara forwent the idea of a traditional gown for such a formal affair. Instead she wore a pair of pale, icy blue, satin shorts that fell to her mid thigh. The bodice was made up entirely of sheer tulle in the same hue as the shorts and embroidered appliques. The appliques were designed to replicate flowers and vines of leaves interwoven with intricate snowflakes made with silver thread and crystal beading. The tulle cinched along her chest and waist before flaring at her hip and cascaded down to the floor creating an elegant train. The appliques dipped down as well, some stopping at the hem of shorts (which could be seen underneath) while others reached down to her knees. The bodice itself was created with a rather risque plunging neckline, one that was much deeper than Taly was accustomed to wearing, but one that accentuated her ample bosom quite nicely. The leaves, flowers, and snowflakes made up the straps of the bodice, climbing over her shoulders and dipping over her back to attach at the waist. This, perhaps even more than the neckline, was the most vulnerable aspect of Talyara's outfit. The witch never wore anything without a back due to the myriad of violent whipping scars which marred her skin there. A pair of silver heels adorned her feet which give her petite frame a boost of a couple of inches. Her mess of curls was tamed in a braided up-do along the back of her crown, running from one tapered ear to the other, with a few loose curls to frame her face. As usual, she had opted to remain neutral with her makeup, just enough to accentuate her pretty emerald eyes. She wore a pair of angel aura quartz solitaire earrings in each lobe with a matching necklace and bracelet. Her hand rested on the crook of Krice's elbow and just as they entered the main hall of the castle she looked up at him and smiled. She walks with him deeper into the room and keeps to the side as she isn't nearly as social as her sister. Her attention is drawn to the stage when Tiber calls for their attention and she beams brightly at the happy couple, pulling her hand free from Krice's elbow to clap along with the others. "I wanna see the puppy!" she told the warrior excitedly.

Krice's attire, in contrast to Talyara's, was simple; a white silk button-down with the collar open, no tie, and sleeves cuffed around each wrist (under the left cuff, the slight impression of a bangle shape), pressed white pants, straight-leg to the ankle, finished by a pair of white leather boots with a slightly elevated, wide black heel. The silver mess usually framing his face had been brushed and held back by a white cord tied loose at his nape, and crimson eyes were relaxed but watchful of the crowds forming ahead. Krice escorted Talyara by his right elbow, forearm angled across his abdomen to provide comfortable purchase for her delicate hands. He dipped his head and exhaled as they passed under the magical snowfall at the entrance, a subtle glance spared the woman on his arm. Once inside, he would defer to his companion's party-going decisions; no matter how many of these events he attended, he couldn't quite work up a natural inclination to mingle. He would have remained at the -door-, even less social than Talyara as he was, but she followed Tiber's indication to the puppy booth and he arched a brow at her excitement. Still, seeing his companion so warm with happiness inspired his own, a charmed smirk touching the left corner of his mouth. " By all means," he said, gesturing to the booth with a wave of his now-free left hand. Once the witch started moving, her warrior companion would follow, passing thoughtful glances across the some-familiar, some-not-so faces of the others gathered. Lots of magic, lots of pomp. Way too elaborate for the enigmatic warrior.

Joan just came for the freebies honestly, she did manage to wear a lovely icy white shirt tucked into a tailored pair of matching slim fitted ladies dress pants, low heeled matching shoes to complete the look, the pale vampire healer made her way into the gathering with a small smile fixed upon her lips. A small hand wave towards those she knew as she moved inwards moving towards the buffet table, snatching up one of those wonderful new kits as she passed by.

Dezerae strolls in, hoping as inconspicuously as possible. Never the type to get dressed up, she fumbles into the hall in rather modest, white heels and a dress that dragged sadly on the ground behind her in a moderate train. It was uncomfortable and unfamiliar but rather aesthetically wonderful - according to her writer. As she meanders further into the area, obviously heading toward wherever the alcohol was stored, served, or otherwise available, the flicker of her long, jade gown complimented the fiery tresses assumed to be hair and the pale, freckled skin peeking through the fabric. Several portions were cut out of the mermaid-shaped gown, either for “fashion” or just to allow her skin to breathe, but exposed flesh is adorned with ornate, pearled beads, sewn into the fabric - like frames. Lack of sleeves, in this clear but chill weather, was not the best choice, but a choice regardless, thin straps the only thing keeping the dresses suspended on her body. The rest of the satin and reflective fabric gently clung to her skin, very different from the loose trousers she usually strolled about in, until it flutters back out from calf to ground. The crimson-eyed feline pauses in her shuffle to absorb the regard of the host and hostess, before finally reaching her destination and ordering a glass from Jiggs to indulge in and more importantly keep her hands busy. Now able to idly focus on the festivities and watch the ongoing of the event, even despite the wonderfully clad individuals and the magnificently decorated atmosphere, her gaze and attention fixates on the Happy Tail stall, her own pet-obsession bubbling to the surface in response. She’d wait to interact, maybe after her second glass, but she makes a mental note that it would be her next stop.

Lita will blame Leo and Lora for making her get all dolled up and showing face at this fancy shindig. She's drummed up a dress that is far from her usual style, all princess ball gown with a dark gray bodice and cream skirt with dark gray tulle overlay. A rose gold floral pattern branches across the skirt and bodice. No shoes, still, but the dress is floor-length, so how will anyone know? Color wise, the dress isn't so far from her usual black styles, but it's a lot more fancy fabric than she's used to. The whole gala that unfolds is a lot more glitter and shine than she's used to, come to think of it. Raven curls are pinned up into a messy bun, stray curls falling to frame her face as she searches the room for familiar faces. Terra gets a familiar smile and wave, an impressed loft of brow as she eyes the blonde's outfit. But it's the pirate's attire that ultimately catches her attention, despite wanting to be most any other place herself, she'd say he's a winner for the most out-of-their-element prize tonight. Though he brings it on himself. Lora pulls off the pair's look with much more elegance and she follows their path to the bar for a drink. Talyara gets a wave in passing, though she'll choose the bar over the pups, there's a twinge of jealousy for her outfit. It is gorgeous and looks far more comfortable than the dress design Lora chose. She'll manage to hide her pouts of complaint for later.

Tiber looks over the beautiful woman draped in matching sapphire. “Yes,” he smirked and waved off the crowd before he jumps down the stage first and extends a hand to help his wife down as well. Through the crowd, honey-glazed irises find a familiar champion. Well, familiar from afar. Familiar in the sense that Tiberius is a fan-boy, and despite what happened at the duel, he thought it was epic. Tiberius was sort of ruthless, so… there was that. “Babe, it’s him.” Tiber just points as he is ‘too cool’ to wave. “Can you believe your hippie friend gave us an autographed scalpel?” He blows air out his lips and shakes his head, in disbelief and awe, like the fan-boy dork he is. He then follows the lead to set off to mingle with other guests.

Leoxander, like Krice, saw some familiar and not-so-familiar faces. And like the warrior, wasn’t one to frequent these sorts of events. But one redhead in particular definitely stood out in the crowd to him as he made his way to the bar and ordered some scotch - a double, since it was free. It seemed that the Cat was targeting that station, too, as his blue gaze followed Dezerae’s path. Every time he reached for Loravelle’s hand kind of startled him with the flare of blue pulse, matching his heart rate, but he’d get over that dilemma in time. ‘Look what the Cat dragged in’ would be far too cliche a greeting, but she might glance over to read the remark in his eyes. “Where you been hidin’?” He took time to notice the fancy ‘gownz’, including Lita as she approached, and he had the courtesy to order a round for Lora, Lita, and Dez’s second if she accepted. Not that he had to pay.

Terra tipped her wine glass towards Leo and Lora, very impressed by their outfits but mostly that Leoxander looked so... well... neat? Clean? Fancy? If the blonde were one to look back, she'd think on their early days and how far they seemed to be from that. Sort of. A glance to her date would suggest that there were some things that she couldn't quite shake. Coming out of that thought, she'd grin at Shi's remark and didn't dare ask who or what that compliment was meant for. "Dance or puppies?" It was then she caught Lita en route for the bar where she had settled near and waved in greeting. Before Shish could answer though, Math had drawn her attention and she perked up in all that fabric and waved at him. "Where have you been!"

Talyara was focused on the puppies--after all, could she even be considered Lanara's sister if she didn't love animals, too?! As she made haste (as much as she could in heels and through the throng of party-goers), she spied a few familiar faces and caught that wave from Lita. She was given a wide smile and an enthusiastic wave back. "I'll come say 'hi' after. Puppies!" she mouthed to the raven-haired vampire before pointing to the Kissing Booth and closing in. "Look how precious!" the witch squealed. Thankfully, she was first in line and didn't hesitate to move towards the puppy. Taly's fingers delved into his smooth, golden coat and she adopted a high pitched tone when she spoke to him. "Oh whose a handsome boy?" she cooed, squishing his face and placing a kiss on his snoot. The puppy is thankfully amiable to Talyara's affections and she grinned up at the warrior who she was sure was nearby. "You know, we should get a dog!"

Lanara wants to make a beeline for her sister, as she hasn’t seen Taly in about a week, and there is a chance that she’s going to adopt a puppy with Krice! She squeezes Tiber’s arm and tries to direct him over to the booth, but it’s then that she spies Leoxander walking past and the glimpse of the male in attire that isn’t black or leather causes her to stop instantly. He had a date?! Lana gives Loravelle a long look, admiring her outfit, and she connects the colors to the fact that they are linked together. Leoxander is a fashionista, who would have thought?! She also recognizes the designs as Kreekitaka’s work and so they must have dropped considerable coin on such dazzling threads. “Let’s go see Taly and Krice!” She looks lovingly up at Tiber, “We have such a turn out! Queen Lunalesca would be so proud!” On the way to the puppy and kitten booth, the witch admires the gowns of Terra, Lita, and Dezerae, offering them all an appreciative nod. “So glad you could come!” They are strangers, but she’s playing the part of hostess, and they all look amazing! Joan is seen over by the Vinabre Cosmetic’s table and Lana gives her a wave and a smile, “Good to see you!” Eventually, they arrive beside her sister and future brother-in-law and Lana taps Taly on the shoulder, “Sister! You look beautiful!” Arms open to pull the petite woman in for a tight hug.

Loravelle doesn't know what ever colorful fruity pixie dust glittery drink she grabbed even is, but it's down her throat and another one is on its way once she and Leo do reach the bar. Two should be enough to make her feel better. They'll both burn like alcohol as they go down her throat, so that's good. The fabric on her dress transitions smoothly from green to a sort of garish mustard color from her utter disgust as she downs the next glass of whatever this alcohol happens to be, but it eventually gradates back to a nice green again after she's swallowed drink number two. She sees Lita and her gorgeous gown and is absolutely giddy. Or the alcohol is making her giddy. ...Or the pixie dust? This might have been a bad idea... And people are looking at her. Gods above, Lora needs to leave. Or have another drink. She'll try to refrain from another drink. Where did Leo go?

Joan gathered up a few of the apples, and a mug of that snowflake apple-cider before she turned around and made her way out! She made her appearance, got the free kit and the goodies now...off she went! Thanks all.

Lanara nudges her husband, as she shakes her head, “Babe… I -know- that HE is here, but this is our event, right? We are hosting for the Queen! And… The People’s Champ will still be here in a few minutes. Let’s circle the room and say hello to everyone, and then you can go ask him to autograph your forehead.” She smirks as he refers to Penelope as a hippy, which isn’t far from the truth, but it was beyond nice of her to get them some Shishi memorabilia!

Dezerae had to blink a few times to take her attention away from the puppy stall and allow it to shift onto the blonde lycanthrope. Her gaze shifted onto the new face beside him and back at him, responding in like to sarcastic remark she can practically read in his eyes. Of course, she responds to his words instead, “I’ve been in my treehouse, staying out of trouble.” She offers a small smile before nodding to his date, the feline always the worst at engaging with new people. And what makes stranger danger better? Another shot.

Krice was indeed nearby, though after spending a moment to admire Talyara's excitement over the puppy, he watched the room at large. Ever observant of his surroundings; it was ingrained, something he couldn't stop himself from doing. Lita's arrival was noticed almost immediately, though he only glanced in her direction when she waved toward his elf companion. If the vampire glanced his way, he'd dip his head in a respectful nod, expression softening just a hint, before Talyara's suggestion drew his attention back. They should get a dog? " Uh--How come?" He wasn't against the idea; he just thought that her little cat friends were enough. With Lanara's boisterous arrival, the warrior waited quietly for her greetings with Talyara to conclude enough that he could greet her as well, with a muted nod. Not the huggy type--everyone knew it. Tiber would be greeted much the same.

Shishi takes his jacket off and leaves it on the back of a chair or something, muttering some excuse like, "So hot..." before raising his good eyebrow towards Terra and answering her with a question, "Puppies?" Who knows if she even heard him. She's distracted. He finishes his glass of wine and looks for another.

Tiber catches Lanara gazing over Leoxander, but he keeps a cool face. Hold the jealousy, Tiber, no need to worry. After the little meeting they had, it was… easier to not get so worked up–for now. Plus, they were the hosts tonight. Should a host really get cranky? Probably not. Tiberius would offer a warmer nod to the other lycan before eyes trace to his date. Like the charming little host he was, he puts on that front of a smile towards Loravelle before moving off to find Talyara and Krice. “Eh, maybe we should put on shindigs more often then,” he shrugs. Once they get to the puppy and kitty booth, he frowns at some of the cats. Obviously he was not a cat person. Instead, he pets a bernese mountain pup before addressing his sister-in-law. “Taly, long time, no see, sis,” he puts emphasis on the newly ‘sis’ part. Eyes then follow to Krice. Tiber and Krice had sort of a bond in the sense of… know. Instead, Tiber puts his hand out for a shake instead. Whether it’s taken or not is fine. “Hey, man. How’ve you been?”

Talyara looked up at Krice and shrugged her left shoulder sheepishly. "I dunno. I always wanted a dog and I thought maybe we could get a pet together?" She felt the zing in her tattooed wrist before she felt the tap on her shoulder. She relinquished the puppy in favor of turning around and seeing her big sister. "Lana! You look gorgeous as always!" she preened moving into the elder witch's open arms and giving her sister a squeeze. "And you have such a great turn out! It looks amazing in here! Hi Tiber!" She greeted her brother-in-law just as genuinely and he gets a hug, too (no matter how begrudging he is about it).

Lita mouths a thanks Leo for the drink and leans in to press a kiss against the pirate's cheek. "You don't clean up so bad." She remarks with a grin and it's almost like a compliment. She eyes Lora over his shoulder, downing bombs of glitter and hopes Leo has it in him to carry her about for a while. "You look stunning," she says, moving to loop an arm around the girl's shoulders in a hug. "Don't be so nervous. It's Leo dragging all the attention." She's not trying to be mean, quite the opposite actually. She's used to attention, at least used to compartmentalizing it. "Everyone's impressed you got him to wear something that doesn't look like he's goin' to some funeral."

Krice cast a sideways glance at Talyara for her response and shrugged, his expression warm. " Oh - sure, if you want to." He hadn't ever given it a thought, but if she had truly always wanted a dog, he wasn't going to get in the way of that. While his companion mingled with her sister, the enigma watched the room - using his index finger to absentmindedly scratch under the chin and between the ears of a kitten leaning into the affection.

Leoxander was right where he needed to be, at the bar. Though drawing down the kerchief covering from his face to drink immediately alarmed a sneeze into the rolled up sleeve of his shimmery green shirt. G’damnit. As if the color change and flickering lights on his attire weren’t enough to draw looks his way. A bit stuffier, he replied to Dezerae. “Well that ain’t no fun.” Staying out of trouble, he meant. He’s upright from his allergic reaction in time for Lita’s kiss on a clean shaven cheek, though her comments to Loravelle earn her a counterfeit glare. “Why the hell they keep pickin’ this damn place?” He tried to scratch over his eyes only to get some glittery substance across his nose.

Loravelle is utter garbage at engaging with new people, so the most she can do is timidly wave at Dezerae. She's clutching the empty glass from her second drink, just so she has something to hold onto instead of fussing with her hair or something. ...And then some other guy, Tiber? She didn't know his name, to be fair – smiles at her? Why? Instinct tells her to step a bit closer to Leo and try to snake her arm around one of his but Lita loops an arm around her shoulders and saves the day. Her hero. “Thank you,” she whispers to Ace. For the compliment and mostly for helping her feel a little less out of her element. “You look great too. This is...a lot.”

Terra made note of where the jacket was left, turning away from greeting her Gualon neighbor to do a little shimmy of excitement when Shishi gave her the answer she had been hoping for. "Good, I agree, you need a puppy." She would pass over her wine to him, mostly untouched if you could believe, and then grab his unoccupied hand to lead him towards the kissing booth.

Lanara smiles at Krice but she doesn’t move to hug the stoic man, as he’s always in warrior mode, and he’s not fond of affection. She wonders if she should just start saluting him or something, as a way of a greeting. Her eyes keep dropping to the puppies, because she’d love nothing more than to crawl into the pen with them and spend the rest of the evening playing with them. But no, she must continue circling the area, and so she motions to the caretaker of the booth, “Waive their fee if they bring home a puppy…” She’s not going to charge her own sister, as Taly was the one that built Happy Tails!

Blaire was here to be seen. Not necessarily to mingle. So she was more than happy to linger where she was visible but no necessarily a part of the festivities. Almost like she was a living advertisement. Fancy that! At least she had brandy. She even had one of the ribbons hold the bottle so she could lazily and loosely hold a glass in one hand and palm her cheek like a bored teenager with the other.

Lita nods in agreement at Lora's assessments. "They always are." The shindigs, that was. "But I promise they're mostly good people. And if you get lost," literally or figuratively, "you got me and Leo here." She nods and will gently try to pry the now empty glass from Lora's clutches. "Maybe a glass of cool water, instead of liquor for your next round?" She nods at the tender, who hands over a glass of water for Lora if she'd want that instead. "No good comes from this one-" She nods at Leo, "having to carry you out of here before a decent dance. It's one of the only perks of these things." Seeing the pirate twirling, that was. ...Lita should really come to more of these things...

Shishi isn't going back for that jacket, of that we can be sure. One hopes the Enchantment Royals like gold, because that thing is theirs now. "What?" Blue blinks, "But I already have Yellow." Either implying his son is an animal or, more likely, that the teenager has more pets than Xalious knows what to do with already.

Dezerae was halfway through her gifted second drink, eyes flipping between the small group that has thankfully formed near her, allowing her to passively engage while remaining focused on the puppy petting station. Leo’s words pass through her consciousness, and she responds a bit delayed, thoughts fraying with each sip. “We can’t all have fun, pup.” The feline also could only commiserate with Loravelle’s nerves, knowing full well that she’d not be able to help.

Loravelle ;; “Thank you.” Lita is quickly becoming her new favorite. She gives up the glass without protest and replaces it with the glass of water. “I'd like to dance...Maybe. I like dancing.” Glancing at Leo, she squints. He can dance. She's sure of it.

Lanara smiles at Blaire and Shishi as she nears the bar, looking up at her handsome date, “Get me a glass of strawberry wine? And try not to faint, he’s -right- there…” She subtly motions to the vampire, as she knows Tiber is about to fangirl any given moment. “I’m going to go and grab another one of those lipsticks from Alvina and Brennia’s makeup line. It’s great that it doesn’t kiss off!” She smacks her lips together and laughs, before she leaves Tiber’s side in pursuit of makeup.

Leoxander knew that open bar didn’t have any appropriate amount of liquor to have him ‘twirling’, but he suffered hearing Lita’s statement as she helped his date to calm. At least he’d been upgraded from Dog, to Pup from the redhead. Or was that a downgrade? Either way, he was used to those terms in her tone and tilted back his expensive scotch before he caved into another sneeze. He really should have further planned beyond the mask he brought back up, which didn’t help much now that his nose was sprinkled in dust, and it prevented him from slamming back another drink that he knocked on the counter to request a refill for. Catching Lora’s look his way, his brow furrowed a bit. He was there. In color. He’d bathed and shaved. Dancing in public might be pushing it. He might as well visit the makeup booth at that point.

Lita is not above guilting Leo into visiting the makeup booth, just for the record.

Terra also blinked at that statement while she processed it. "But... Yellow isn't in Vailkrin all that much. A little shadow pup in Vailkrin could be nice." As Lanara approached, she eavesdropped on that conversation and was amused to learn that one of their hosts was also a Blue fan. They'd have much in common, it would seem. "Do you want to say hi?" She'd nod towards Tiber, certain that Shi also heard the teasing.

Talyara raised her brow curiously at Krice when he just agrees to getting a dog. She even squinted up at him. She waved off her sister and Tiber, knowing that being kin didn't give her the right to monopolize their time seeing as they were the hosts of the party. The caretaker assured Lana that she wouldn't charge Taly a fee and, despite her glamorous attire, she squatted down beside the pen to look at all the different puppies. "Are any catching your eye?" she asked the enigma.

Loravelle copies her pirate and furrows her brow at him too. Mostly because she's pretty sure that she's ready to go. They dressed up and showed up to this sparkly party and that seemed like enough. Right? Lora may like dancing, but not in public. That's scandalous. She pulls her lengthy braid over one shoulder so she can fiddle with the end of it after setting her empty glass down.

Tiber gladly accepts the hug from Taly because… well, he was used to it by now. Once the Kelvarian gives him a request. “Got it, ba–” he cuts off as she says Shishi is -right there- at the bar. “Uh, right.” He stands tall before pivoting to… the bar. “A strawberry wine and a… honey whisky on the rocks for me.” The man takes a glance at the Blue Demon. Terra breaks the ice, and the man offers a sheepish smirk. “Hey, man. Congrats on the win.” Thank gosh Lanara walks back up. “We were banking it was you. Quite the finale.” He knows he should not really bring it up as it was touchy for some people. “Anyway,” Tiber was at a loss for words with the champion near him. The only time that he would not word vomit everything he thought. He, instead, looks over to the blonde vampire. “Hey,” Wait… was that…? Terra was familiar. “I know you.” Reflect back to drunk Tiber even if it was a blur of the night.

Lanara is at the makeup counter, chatting with one of the students from the Bard’s Guild, when a slow song comes on! “Ooh, I love this song!” She dabs some color onto her lips and runs her fingers through her lustrous hair, as she pointedly looks in the direction of the bar. She wants to dance and she’s in need of Tiber at this very moment, so she heads back in that direction and sees Terra and her husband exchanging words. They both glance at Shishi, directly after conversing, and Lana knows now that her hopes are dashed. She cannot possibly compete with the People’s Champ! She wanders over by Leo and Lora and admires their costumes, “You both look wonderful! I love the design, and the material is so stylish!” She’s being sincere, as she reaches out to pinch Leo’s shoulder, “You should take your date to the dance floor.” The meddling little witch winks at the pair, before she returns to her husband, so that she can watch him ogle Shishi.

Loravelle winks at Leo. This is not an in character thing because Lora is too shy to wink at anybody.

Krice turned toward Talyara to look down at the puppy pen, even while he scratched the chin of a nearby kitten in the cat pen. Leaving the feline, he placed his attention onto the puppies and spoke quietly with his companion. " Depends," He said, musing over the little animals waiting to be picked. "What do you want from a dog?"

Leoxander read Loravelle’s look all too easily. But he wasn’t going to make it quite so easy, for her. It was about the same time that the giddy witch approached that he was standing up from his seat, reaching out for her hand, only flinching mindly when the contact of their touch caused that blue pulse to echo nervous or uncomfortable heartbeats. “Thank Kree’...” He murmured to his former charge of failed security option, because the rogue made for a lousy cop. But he hadn’t lost the fact that both she and her husband were under his ranks now, and payback was a witch. Still, he complied and took Loravelle toward the center of the room near the chandelier, knowing she would probably fight him like a cat in a bath to escape. If not, the rogue found her waist and her hand in a surprisingly appropriate grip.

Shishi puts on his practiced fanged grin both before and after he takes another gulp from the glass of bloodwine Terra provided. "Aye, it was pretty wild." He winks, but it just looks like he's got something in his eye since his other eye is covered by the eyepatch. "Gwah~. Did you guys get the little doctor knife I signed from Pene?" 'Little Doctor Knife.' The Blue Demon is the greatest gladiator Lithrydel has ever seen, but he doesn't know a lot of words...

Talyara pondered Krice's question and looked back into the pen. All the dogs looked adorable and their little squeaks and yelps were melting her heart. Could she adopt them all? She didn't think they would fit in her cottage and Taylor, her feline familiar, would certainly not approve of a pack of puppies moving in. "I dunno. Cuddles?" she said chuckling before looking up at Krice. "Maybe a larger pup that can walk with me when you're not around." She wouldn't admit it aloud in such a social gathering, but she still struggled with anxiety since being kidnapped by witch hunters. Krice obviously had work to do so having added protection would make her feel more secure when alone.

Loravelle finally had a face to place Lanara's name on after hearing it a few times in the past. “T-thank you, Miss Lanara.” Wrong Miss, but she didn't know that the gorgeous witch woman was married to that guy that smiled at her earlier. Her suggestion to dance has Lora's dress changing colors again, the fabric transitioning from green to pink like it's blushing for her. And then Leo has her hand in his, and she's being led to the dance floor, and...Oh gods save her. They're dancing. Her hands automatically move where they're supposed to go, as if by muscle memory despite how much they tremble, and like pretty much always, the mouse is following the wolf's lead in their dance. That pulse of blue light from her gown is likely going haywire now in a very out of place strobe light effect, but she keeps her eyes locked on Leo's in effort to tune everything - everybody else, out. That seems to still her heart enough that she isn't accidentally turning this slow dance into an all out rave.

Leoxander was going to burn that woman someday.

Dezerae drops her now empty fourth glass onto the counter with a soft thud, teetering on her heels to gauge her stability. Once confirmed that she’s fine to meander away from the support of the bar, the feline offers a soft nod to Lita, assuming she is still within her vicinity and wanders over to the puppy pen. Despite already having an army of animals that rely on her, the feline leans forward - at the limits that her dress would allow - and extends a hand to any of the animals, seriously considering taking one back to her critter-filled home.

Krice listened to Talyara's reply while he squinted thoughtfully at the puppies in the pen. Her giggling words inspired a charmed smile, and her more sincere request - for a bigger pup to provide protection in his absence - garnered a pensive, " Gyl fancies herself a big dog, I think." Reaching out, the warrior pointed to the puppies as he spoke. " They'll all be large when they're older. This one has a lot of energy and wants to explore"--the pup in question, grey and white with currently-floppy ears, was pushing at the pen with his nose up toward the bipeds--"maybe a bit too independent. That one"--golden pup with one ear up, behind the rest but wagging his tail and looking happy--"is -probably- cuddly but will still grow big and look menacing enough."

Leoxander …in turn, was wearing pink. Thanks Kree’. He tried to give Loravelle a very subtle look to get her stuff in check to save some of his reputation, since his shimmery vest was now flashing blue and the color of her cheeks. He was never going to be taken seriously as a threat again after that moment, but he tried to ignore their surroundings as best as he could and moved his other hand from hers, around her waist to bring her in, so at least she could hide a bit against him, hopefully without ruining that expensive vest with the fruity cocktail she’d stomached. In time, after some simple swaying, he seemed to have practiced before coincidentally the way he took her hand and caused her long dress to billow a bit in a twirl. This normal type of living and socializing was strange, but it hurt a lot less at the end of the day.

Tiber did think Blue looked gnarly. By gnarly, like the bad gnarly, but it was also the cool gnarly. The wink does not come off as planned, but Tiberius is so blinded by joy that he cannot even fathom the Blue Demon (y’all thee Blue Demon) is talking to him. Be collected, Tiber. “Yeah, yeah, that was sweet, dude. Thanks, really.” Beat. “I don’t want to hog all your time, as you have your li’l lady friend, but! Thanks again, and congrats again.” Tiber makes it short and sweet as he does not want to seem -too- ridiculous. “I think I -also- owe someone a dance.” He does a single finger-gun before he looks down at his wife, he swigs down the rest of his whiskey before he suggests, “Dance with me,” he would slip a hand around Lanara’s waist before attempting to glide her onto the dance floor as well. In the midst of ‘gliding’ a single elbow might have grazed Loravelle as Tiber was preparing his own suave dancing with his hottie date. It was not intentional, but because Loravelle seemed so… tense, it might have been a little too much for comfort. It was an accident, okay?

Loravelle didn't want to be prancing around in pink either, Leo. She's trying to change the color. Bringing her in was a smart move, especially since his larger frame and height worked perfectly to hide her, and that pink starts to drain away to something a lot more soothing. We'll try a nice, dark blue, treading close to black to match the night sky because gods above did Lora wish she could just go hide in the dark somewhere unseen right now. She jumps when that smiling stranger's elbow bumps her, shattering that nice, shadowy blue moment into an alarmed flash of scarlet. She clings to Leo and whispers something in his ear as the red color dissolves back into that nighttime blue once more. Talyara's gaze followed to the two pups that Krice pointed to and she was immediately enamored with the latter one with the one perched ear and the other floppy. "C'mere," Taly cooed reaching her hand out towards him, inviting him to give her a sniff. "Gyl is sometimes with you," Taly pointed out. "And she's too big to bring into the cottage, unfortunately," she lamented with a sigh. "Do you think he'd be okay with the cold, though?"

Lanara smiles and nods in reply to Shishi, “You’re amazing and we love the scalpel! Nel was so thrilled to heal you and gift it to us!” Perhaps she would have engaged in some conversation with the beautiful blonde at Shishi’s side, as Lana has never officially met Terra. Tonight will be another missed opportunity, as the brunette is whisked onto the dance floor. Lana laughs and places one hand atop Tiber’s shoulder, while the other rests in his palm, and she steps a little closer so there isn’t too much of a gap between their bodies. Being the professional dancer that she is, she tones down her finesse and allows her husband to lead her into an unconventional waltz. Tiber lifts a hand to twirl his wife and she turns outwards and is just about to rest against his chest once more, when his hand seems to fly back and slap a woman on the side, dangerously close to her rear. Lana gasps, knowing that it’s an accident, but still horrified that it has occured. The witch spies Leo’s suit now turning a shade of hot pink and she stills as she knows that it’s Loravelle that Tiber had spanked. “Oh boy.”

Loravelle adds another quick whisper too, because she's suddenly feeling more talkative in public. Blame the booze.

Leoxander had to lean down a bit to hear Loravelle’s whisper, which was abruptly followed by a high pitched sound of some sort that had his wolf-sharp ears ringing, and he shook his head rapidly just a bit to stop the aftermath. He took his attention from the skittish woman in his arms and glanced Tiber and Lanara’s way, the former of the couple earning a hard look as he’d not only apparently smiled, but got in proximity to touch the petite maiden. The vest gave his mood away as it darkened to a bloody shade of red like Blaire had predicted her bracelet to match with the gala before. At that point, normalcy and socializing was out the window and Leo stopped dancing.

Krice nodded acknowledging Talyara's comments about Gylworliath sometimes being with him; he needed her for quick travel across vast distances, sure, but the wyvern loved to stay with the witch as well. Granted, she couldn't be in two places at once. As Talyara interacted with the gentler puppy, others vied for her attention. Krice reached in to ease them away from his companion's arm so she could reach for the golden tail-wagger, earning himself several frantic licks and some needle-teeth nibbles from the more energetic grey puppy. He didn't fuss, instead focusing on the woman at his side. Once she had gathered the puppy, he would leave the others and stand beside the woman, observing her with the little canine. Reaching out, he felt its golden fur. " His fur is already quite dense, so probably?" His brow furrowed as he mulled over the question. A moment later, his hand jolted and he winced in surprise, though he turned casually from the witch to obscure any other signs of discomfort from her. Reaching across to take hold of his left wrist with his right hand over the silk cuff of his shirt, he murmured, " I'm sure he'll be just right for you." The potential drama unfolding nearby drew his squinted gaze briefly.

Tiber is all bliss and closeness and drinks. He turns Lanara until eyes linger on the couple next to them. Clearly, Tiberius is clueless about what is going on. Someone give him a social cue on why Leoxander’s vest is red? “Why again did you say ‘oh boy’?” Did he not feel the graze like Loravelle had? The clearly buzzed expression is given. Leoxander looks… not happy and the couple had stopped dancing. Was romance on the rocks? “Is he okay…?” His voice is lowered towards his wife. He turns her so they can both side-view the couple next to them.

Loravelle doesn't know what to do when the pirate abruptly stops dancing. She vacillates between trying to take one of Leo's hands to gently tug him off of the dance floor and out of the party entirely, or just wandering off by herself because he looks Very Upset. Her dress has turned blood red as well, despite probably feeling something more akin to whatever color fear is. Maybe a powdery blue? Periwinkle? Is that a color that screams frightened and anxious? “L-Leo...” She tries getting his attention, followed by a gentle tug of his hand in both of hers.

Lanara nips her lower lip as Leoxander and Loravelle abruptly stop dancing, and her eyes widen at Tiber’s clueless inquiry. Had he not felt the slapping of palm against dressed flesh? “You spanked his girlfriend and now he probably wants to kill you!” She issues a hurried whisper and offers up a wave to the mortified Lora and the angered Leo, “Red is -definitely- your color!” Boiling crimson is more like it! “Why don’t you go ask Lora to dance so she doesn’t think you’re a creep?” That will likely exacerbate the situation, but Lana is in ‘fix it’ mode and hopes that the accidental smack will be smoothed over with some twirls.

Terra tugged on Shi’s tie for attention. “Puppies?” It seemed she was looking to move away, far away, from potential battles.

Leoxander hadn’t entered the tournament that year. In fact, it had been far too long since he’d been in a proper fight, and the fact that Tiber’s glare from the Tournament’s start-off ceremony was still fresh in his mind (not to mention he was a lycan, one he’d been formally introduced to recently by the event executive for the evening), well, it was a recipe for something uncivilized. Suddenly that tamed down version of Leo inherited the look of a predator and it was locked on the witch’s husband as Lora may or may not paw at his hand for grip. She wouldn’t be able to hold him back if he decided on the step forward. “This is the part where you apologize to her.” His low voice said. Wait - what? Leo wasn’t throwing a fist for the finely dressed gentleman’s face? Baby steps, rogue.

Blaire had her eye drawn by sudden shifting colors. Well, that and a tangle in certain threads and knots she was probably alone in seeing. At least among present company. So, she leaned slightly on the bar and stage-whispered to the tender with a ribbon holding itself over her mouth like a screening hand. "Watch this. Hoedown turned throw down."

Shishi goes where he's tugged. He doesn't need to breathe, so the tie is an acceptable handle. He does however keep one eye on the tension rising on the dance floor. Maybe if these two really get into it, people will forget about how he ripped that girl's heart out of her chest before she got kidnapped by a bug.

Leoxander notes that Shi only got one eye to turn, anyhow.

Talyara waited patiently for the puppy Krice had pointed out to approach her. He gave her hand a sniff and with a quick tail wag and a loll of his tongue, he padded towards the witch and gave her hand a lick. This drew a giggle from Taly who looked towards the caretaker. "May I?" The employee nodded and the little witch scooped up the puppy and straightened, turning to face the warrior. She caught that grimace, however, and it caused her lips to dip into a frown. She held the warrior's gaze for a beat, silently asking him a question. The puppy laid his head on Taly's shoulder and looked out into the crowd. The sudden squeal startled Talyara who turned toward the dance floor with a furrowed brow to see what the ruckus was about.

Tiber furrows his brows in confusion. The crowd was a blur. The party was too fun? Why would he know he slapped a rando booty cheek? He was just happily whisking his wife away. When Lanara tells him what happened, whiskey breath let’s out a, “Oh sh–,” he cuts himself before he looks down at his wife. He glances at Leoxander and his brows are still knit together thinking Leoxander made such an assumption. Yeah, Tiber… this one was not going to be clean. “-Look-, dude, I love my wife,” always with that line. Were the votes in? “Accidents happen.” Teeth grind as the two lycans butt heads. “Apologies?” Might get a social clue there, Loravelle. Tiberius was bad at this whole ‘apology’ thing. Lanara is staring at him. “Too much whiskey. I apologize,” his teeth are tight, however, because he does not like how Leoxander is looking at him, but he -also- has a party to host. "Time to name the best dressed." He says on edge.

Lanara cannot help but grin as Tiber states that he loves her, in front of everyone, even if it’s not the most opportune moment. The slap was an accident and so she waves an apologetic hand at Lora and Leo, before she is interrupted by the guard that had been keeping a watchful eye on the voting box. After exchanging a few whispers, the woman smiles and makes her way to the stage. She motions for Tiber to come along, as it’s only proper for both of them to be present when handing out the prize. They breeze through the crowd, lightly mingling along the way, until they stand front and center and wait for the band to finish their song. Silence descends on the area and the witch stands on the enchanted spot that will increase the volume in which she speaks so that all gathered can hear. “If everyone could please direct their attention to me, it would be appreciated!” She pauses, so everyone stops yammering and focuses, “As was advertised, the two winners of the best dressed prize will receive five thousand gold each, as well as an itinerary for a romantic weekend getaway in Enchantment! Who did you all choose?!” The crowd gets pretty hyped up over this and various names are shouted, as well as a few catcalls, and Lana laughs. “Will it be two singles that arrived here separately? Strangers that fall in love? Enemies?! Or will it be a couple that came here together that is blessed with an inclusive weekend?” Lanara waits for one of the royal guards to approach the stage, as he had been assigned to tally the results, while another guard kept a watchful eye to make sure there wasn’t any tampering. A piece of paper is exchanged and Lana quickly reads the names, before showing it to Tiber, as they both announce the winners loudly, “Congratulations Leoxander and Loravelle! Will you both please make your way to the stage to claim your prize?” Once the winners arrive, Lana gives them each a brief hug and hands them the information about their vacation, while Tiber hands off the bags of gold. Hopefully her husband doesn’t get socked in the jaw, or fall forward and grope the poor girl.

Lanara looks into the crowd, unsure exactly who the runner up for best dressed is, as she only knows the name. Terra. The witch clears her throat, “The votes were very close, so we have a second place prize for Terra, who I’ve heard looks stunning this evening!”

Leoxander still wanted to ruin everything from his well knotted tie - up, but… perhaps a shock to a crowd who had seen the lycan triggered before, the vest started to mellow in color and the pulse of blue with his rapid heartbeat. Definitely not a subtle attire proper for a criminal. A deep breath taken through his sun spotted, and now pixie dusted nose and he fought another sneeze to lift his shaven jaw in acceptance. Leo wouldn’t be ruining the party, yet. “Captain.” He corrected quietly, from dude, establishing the title he had earned even if he didn’t have the fan base that the Tournament’s Champion had. But it was settled, just like that, and he was reaching for Lora’s hand to leave when Lanara cut in with her announcement, causing him to glance back at the sound of his and her name, his clothing mottled brown and green by then. What the hell?

Tiber turns to leave to go to the stage as now people who are part of the planning are hollering at him. He turns to jump on stage with his wife in sulkiness and he is handed the gold that they planned to award. Once Loravelle and Leoxander are announced, he would take the initiative to be a big man and hand off the hefty prize. “Congrats,” he says trying to bite his tongue. He has to fake a smile for the crowd as he hands off the money to Leo and Loravelle no matter the atmosphere. He does this for his wife, okay? When Terra is also the runner up, the man is thankful to part to move up to the blonde. A smile moves back to his face. A true one. "Congratulations." He gives a two-fingered wave before moving off back to Lanara.

Krice watched the two lycans work out their places - though honestly, if someone had smacked Talyara's rear, he mightn't have been so restrained as Leoxander was, accident or not. When Talyara's attention was caught by the tense little group, he regarded her with eyes that were calm despite the crease of his left brow. " They'll work it out," he uttered, nodding to the puppy. " If you want him, do we take him now or later?" Stay focused. The warrior's time here was shortening, as communicated through the stare that he leveled on his emerald-eyed companion. Lanara's attempts to diffuse the lycan encounter hopefully worked, allowing the warrior to spend a moment listening to the announcement - since Talyara likely wanted to - before impressing upon her his unspoken message with the intensity of a single look. To others, he'd seem focused but calm, but the witch knew him well enough to understand beyond that.

Loravelle would probably be clutching at her prayer beads if she had them on hand with all of this tension. Her eyes go wide when she overhears Miss Lanara suggest that Tiber dance with her, and the girl's head immediately begins to shake. No. Please no. But Mister Tiber apologized, so...she can let it go. Or try to. It'll definitely take a bit. Getting slapped on the backside by a strange drunk man was probably forgivable if it was an accident, right? Since trying to tug Leo away from the situation had failed, she just lets the pirate's hand go, her own hands falling limply to either side. ...And then they're announced winners of the contest she forgot about. Dumbfounded, Lora's head turns a fraction to stare at Leo. “...What?” They have to walk up on that stage now? Swallowing, she tries grabbing for Leo's hand again so they can at least walk up there together to claim their prize.

Shishi said to Terra, "Gwah. You won something. I think you have to go on a weekend getaway with Leo and that mute servant girl now..."

Talyara watched the mounting tensions wearily--she supposed it wouldn't be a fancy party without the threat of at least one fight. Thankfully, tempers seem to relax a little as the winners are announced. The witch does her best to clap but given the puppy in her arms, she can really only pat his back. Turning back to the caretaker, Taly stepped a bit closer to better facilitate the conversation. "We are very interested in this little guy but we weren't planning on coming home with a puppy so our cottage isn't ready. Would we be able to pay the fee as a retainer and pick him up at a later time?" The Happy Tails employee waves Taly off. "Your sister will have my head if I charge you anything. Don't worry, we will mark him as adopted and you can come pick him up when you're ready!" Taly bounced the puppy in her arms and nuzzled her nose into his neck. "Hear that little guy? You'll be coming home soon!"

Terra was almost to the puppies, again, but she is sidetracked when the winners are called. As they moved up to accept their prize, she’d cup her hands around her mouth and holler “speeeech” at the winning duo. It was when her name was called that she gave up on the speech, tried not to chug her wine before she’d head up for her prize. Lanara received a somewhat shy wave before she moved to Tiber and returned his smile with one of her own. She would very quickly return back towards Shi who earned a look for his comment. “Oh, I thought you were taking us on one. Maybe we could see what their itinerary is and double up?”

Leoxander was in an awkward moment, as well. Because he was being handed currency from the very man he’d considered knocking out minutes ago. But he wasn’t truly a rogue if he didn’t accept cash to make up for what he’d actually spent trying to accomplish some goal of ‘formal wear’. There were a lot of better dressed men in the crowd, but he’d have to hand it to Kree for the creativity even if it put him in a bit of a vulnerable spot. Still holding onto Loravelle’s hand on the approach revealed his heart at a rapid pace but likely nowhere near as quick as hers as they made their way back into the stage end of the room. He doesn’t outright thank the pair or have a speech prepared, but afforded a nod of what might be some shred of gratitude for the pocket change. Lora would be the one that got whatever parchment explained the secondary part of their prize.

Krice stepped toward Talyara once she had finished her conversation with the Happy Tails employee, taking hold of her right arm with his left hand. She'd feel the tremor traveling the length of that limb, subtle but discernible, as he leaned in to utter a quiet word. As Leoxander and Loravelle made their way to the stage, their movement was enough to draw the warrior's attention, albeit briefly.

Loravelle definitely wouldn't be giving any sort of speech. Stage fright and all of that, but she does examine the bit of parchment with their itinerary for a...weekend getaway? Like a vacation? She's never had one of those before. Skimming its contents, she's a little bamboozled and some of the words she mouths make her face turn pink. Not the dress this time, thankfully. Whenever Leo has a chance to look it over, she hands the parchment over to him and starts tugging him off of the stage to either get another drink or flee for the night. She realizes halfway through this that she's forgotten her manners, and looks to Miss Lanara and Mister Tiber. “T-thank you,” she says, shyly, and then she's back to wanting to flee the scene again.

Tiber turns off from Terra. Thankful that she at least had a smile on her face. He knows that the night is coming to a close, however. The bartender is smart enough to leave a glass for Tiberius at the bar. After he snags a drink to down after Leoxander claimed to have a title of “Captain”, Tiberius is going to be -very- stubborn to address Leo in such a nature. The Catalian tugs on his wife to pull her back on stage for the last round of the night. He sways a bit, and he has a glass with whiskey in it. He turns to sneak a dinger out of the musician who plays the triangle. He taps his glass to get the attention of the guests near to him and the others push on the crowd. “Hey, hey, hey! Thank you all for coming! It looks like some had -too- much fun,” he looks at a guy who is passed out with his head on the bartop. “It’s nice to give Enchantment some love, and see all of your faces. Walk safe home or safely get a carriage. We have them lined outside if anyone needs a safe way to get home.” The tipsy man looks down to his wife who is whispering saucy words to him on stage and he grins boyishly down at her. “Have a good night whether you’re still here or… leaving!” The man then places a hand on the small of Lanara’s back as she takes away the stage.

Lanara sidles closer to Tiber, perhaps a little tipsy from all the drinking that she had done, and it seems like she certainly had a wonderful time. “Yes! Thank you all for attending Enchantment’s Annual Snowflake Soiree! I think my sister just adopted a puppy?!” She chimes in, as she hugs Tiber tightly around the middle, and attempts to whisper sweet nothings in his ear. Half of the crowd overhears her clearly stating that she wants to ‘heat up the snowflakes and attend a sexy soiree’ just for the two of them! Is she embarrassed? Not right now, but she likely will be mortified in the morning! Lana blows kisses to the crowd, “Merry Meet, Merry Part, and Merry Meet again!” The newlyweds descend the stage and say their private goodbyes to their closest friends and family, before they depart from the castle and head home.

Talyara inclined her tapered ear to catch Krice's whisper and frowned at his words. She gently placed the puppy back into the pen and did her absolute best to ignore the sad eyes he was currently sending her way. She reached out to take the warrior's hand and was just saying that she wanted to get word to Lana when the married couple ascended the stage once more to utter their appreciation to the crowd and bid a goodnight. When the elder witch exclaimed that she thought Taly adopted a dog, she cupped her hands over her mouth and called back, "we did!" She grimaced slightly when those supposed-to-be-private sweet nothings are broadcast for all to hear but she turned her attention back to the warrior. "Lana's in good hands, we can go." Her fingers laced with Krice's so she could give his hand a reassuring squeeze.

Krice barely reacted to Lanara's unfortunately loud exclamations toward her husband, focused solely on Talyara. His fingers twitched in her hand before curling around it to reciprocate the hold, and a small frown conveyed his apology for her want to rush out with him. After a brief glance at the puppy in the pen, who had become swallowed up by the others in playful activity, the warrior turned to stride from the castle on brisk steps, though not so swift as to prevent his companion from keeping pace.