RP:Grand Opening, maybe not
The Grand Opening of Thalra's Treatments and Tinctures is packed with attempted rivalry, snake spawning guests, name mispronunciations, and unscheduled bonding, but for the best part it does bring the much needed customer turnout that would keep the store in business.
Grand Opening Night
Thalra (Post 1 of 3):: The sun is setting in the distance and a gentle breeze caresses ones cheek as they make their way along the cobblestone path, all to come to the familiar plaza in Cenril. The salty air, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore, and the smiles on the faces of the party-goers, make it a certainty that this will be a night to remember. To the east of ‘Thalra’s Treatments and Tinctures’ is where the real party has been set up, as a weighted crimson carpet has been placed over the sea of sand. A golden tent is erected above the spacious carpet, with tall lanterns providing the lighting, along with the flickering of fireflies. The massive tent covers a stage which has been set up in the rear, and several handsome men are setting up their instruments and making any final tweaks. To the left of the tent is where an elongated buffet table rests, along with plates, cutlery, and linen napkins. Everything rests upon the table, fine foods from all over the realm, imported meats and cheeses, and various types of fruits, vegetables, and salads. A dessert table sits at the end, with a decadent seven-layer cake in the center, a true cake for a celebration. To the right of the tent sits an enchanted ice block, with several holders for various types of liquor, and a bartender stands ready to take ones order. The center area, which could easily house a hundred guests, remains vacant, and is the area where guests would go to mingle and show off their dance moves. Those that have made their plates and wish to dine, would move to the area set just beyond the tent, so that the music isn’t so loud, and they could eat beneath the beauty of the star filled sky. Waiters weave through the crowd of finely dressed guests, serving trays expertly carried in their hand, as they offer flutes of champagne and strawberries to those that are just arriving. Everyone is dressed in a formal fashion of tuxedos and evening gowns, and has come here to support the grand opening of the drow’s shop.
Thalra (Post 2 of 3):: Thalra's eyes wandered about the courtyard as her guests entered, transfixed on their faces and taking note of those she had seen before and those who were new to her. The Drow was dressed in a dark purple evening gown with a slit up to her thigh showcasing her well toned legs, and her sloping neckline narrowed into a v-formation showing off a bit of her bosom, the bodice hugging her feminine curves. Thalra’s style was perhaps a little showy albeit elegant. Being a drow, as she was, formal events in the Underdark would have meant much less modesty than this, so for those who were familiar with the dark elves, they would know she was dressed appropriately for the occasion. Her eyes lit up as the guests entered the tent, taking their seats, standing at the buffet line, or simply mingling. After Nick, the lead singer of the Backstreet Bards, introduced the hostess for the evening, Thalra took the microphone from the handsome, blond haired man. “Thank you, Nick. And hello everyone, thank you all for showing up tonight. It’s a great honor to be able to open my store to all of you, and in a few moments these doors will be opened and I pray I never have to close them for longer than a night. As a show of gratitude, all purchases made this evening will be fifty percent off, and be sure to let those you know of your experience. We have a buffet for all your nourishment needs, and the Backstreet Bards to entertain us for the evening. If there are any questions, please come find me and I will do my best to answer them. Shiloh, would you be so kind?” She asked the frost drake who walked over to the bright red ribbon that sealed off the doors to the shop. The little frost drake breathed an icy shower on the ribbon and then with her tail shattered it, and pair opened the doors. “Thalra’s Treatments and Tinctures is now open for business!” She exclaimed with a smile as she motioned with her hand and the band began to play.
Thalra (Post 3 of 3):: Inside of ‘Thalra’s Treatments and Tinctures’ is just as festive as the exterior. When the guests first enter the revolving door they are greeted by a friendly employee standing at a help desk eager to assist them with any questions they might have about the items sold in the establishment. A colorful wheel sits on the desk and the patron is invited to take a free spin to win an additional percentage off of their purchase or a free tincture in celebration of the grand opening. Against the expanse of the back wall, one’s eye is immediately drawn to a grand staircase which has been decorated in gold and purple streamers in honor of the celebration. To the left there is a red velvet curtain with a rope keeping curious patrons at bay. There is a sign hanging before it advertising a potion making contest and a guard stands nearby, informing any interested parties that they are to go inside the empty freight elevator to prepare a wholesome tincture to be judged for a cash prize. Extending past the staircase and contest area are several wooden shelves completely lined with various tinctures and potions, all polished to a high shine, with labels written in elegant calligraphy. Adhered to the lip of the shelf in front of each bottle is a brief written description of the use or purpose of each colorful treatment. Towards the western wall there are several stacked crates with various herbs for those who wish to do a bit of potion and tincture making on their own time or are looking for a low cost alternative for various health benefits. Near the exit door there is another desk where an employee stands before a register ready to assist with one’s final purchases. There are several barrels of assorted candy for the children (or youngsters at heart) to partake in a sweet treat. Each guest who makes a purchase is given a small pouch of thanks for their patronage. Inside one would find a sample bottle of a mood enhancing tincture, a few sage leaves for stamina, and a coupon for twenty five percent off their next purchase. Nestled near the exit door a curious black and red scaled snake watches each patron as they leave, perhaps ensuring that nothing has been pilfered.
Talyara enters the courtyard area feeling slightly out of place in her formal attire. She was currently residing in the fort in Frostmaw and therefore didn’t have access to any dresses. Thankfully Krice, who was escorting the witch to the outskirts of Cenril on the back of his wyvern Gylworliath, agreed to detour to Sage so Taly could kip into the cottage behind the sanctuary and snag a dress and some shoes from her sister. Unfortunately, it was definitely not the younger witch’s style. It was a two piece ensemble, the bodice embellished with dark green gems that shimmered any time she moved, the hem falling just below her ample bosom. The skirt, in the same shade of hunter green, rested in the crook of her waist and fell in elegant tiers to the ground. Still recovering from her hip injury during her frost boar hunt, the witch opted to stick with gold hued ballet flats on her feet. Talyara’s normally untamed chestnut curls had been pulled back in side braid before being swept up in a twisted ponytail with a few pieces falling down around her face and bare shoulders. Never one for makeup, the witch merely swiped a bit of mascara on her long, dark lashes and some red lipstick onto her full lips. She quickly grabs a glass of champagne from a passing waiter upon entering the tent, her emerald eyes scanning the area in search of a familiar face, mainly her sister. Taly was always awkward in big social gatherings and Lanara’s presence, surprisingly, had a calming effect on her anxiety. Talyara moves off to the side as Nick, looking rather dashing in his tuxedo, introduces the woman of the hour and Thalra takes the stage and welcomes her esteemed guests before officially opening the store with the help of her frost drake. The witch claps politely and opts to linger under the tent until the initial rush of excitable guests left the store. She decided to head towards the buffet table to peruse the delicious food that had been catered. “Did you hear?” the woman in front of Taly whispers to her date. “I head Thalra managed to secure -the- Gordyn Whamsey, the celebrity chef of Lithrydel, to cater this event!” Talyara eyes the surrounding area suspiciously. If it were true, the drow had managed to keep Gordyn locked away in a kitchen somewhere because the witch heard naught an expletive laced insult!
Elioyahazer had spent some time with Lanara previously, deciding on what he should be wearing to one of these formal events. Being entirely to new to such concepts he was a little out of his league when it came to such attire. In the end, Elio sticks to a more classic look. A double breasted, black jacket with peak lapels that fits his form well - providing that v-line from waist to shoulders. A simple white button up shirt with a banded neck partially unbuttoned to expose the crimson Cavat he used as a tie. To further amplify his chosen color, a striped crimson and black vest covers that shirt, whilst golden cufflinks complete the ensemble. Of course, he wore similar black pants and matching polished shoes. One flick of his eyes, marked with sectoral heterochromia - brown eyes, with clear patches of blue - his gaze is upon Lanara with a smile, who stands beside him, with her hand tucked into the crook of his arm. Without further word, Eli escorts Lanara into the building, where they may peruse. He does overhear something about the back street bards, and purchases made this evening are half off. Sounds like it might be a successful event? His eyes begin to meander over the plethora of displays, but he’s curious now.
Lanara walks alongside Elioyahazer, her hand gently tucked into the crook of his arm, as her silver heels click against the pavement. The witch is stunning, and turning several heads, as her appearance often does, though she seems to only have eyes for her date. Looking up at Eli, she gives him a dazzling smile, and lightly elbows him in the side, “Thalra really went all out. This place looks great!” The couple walks beneath the tent, where they’re each handed a flute of champagne, and they pause to take in all of the decorations, activities, and guests. Lanara is a vision in a form-fitting crimson gown, which snugly clings to her curves, and one would wonder how she’s breathing without any difficulty. The gown ends in a small train, and the woman’s entire back is bare, as the dramatically sloping neckline ends just above her legendary derriere, drawing everyone’s gaze to her flawless form. Lana’s elbow-length locks have been expertly twisted and curled, so that the upper half of her hair is neatly pinned back from her face, though her lower half teasingly brushes against her bare back. A single curl has been set apart, to dangle against her right cheek, and to draw ones attention to what she considers her finest feature, a captivating pair of chocolate brown eyes. Impossibly long lashes are coated in thick layer of mascara, a faint touch of blush has been applied to her high cheekbones, and a shimmering lip gloss has been dabbed onto her lush lips. Around her neck sits a thin silver chain, with a paw print diamond pendent that dangles a hint above her cleavage, and a matching pair of stud earrings are worn on her lobes. The faint smell of cherry blossom perfume is inhaled to those that get close to the witch, and she can’t seem to stop smiling on this particular evening. After a few minutes, she catches sight of Talyara, and leads Eli over to meet her little sister. A customary kiss is given to the short elf’s cheek, as she makes the appropriate introductions. “Taly! You look ravishing, as always. I’d like you to meet my date, um, Egg Beater.” She’s still learning how to pronounce his name, give the witch a break! “He’s in the export business.” They’re interrupted by Nick, who announces the arrival of the lady of the hour, and all eyes turn to Thalra. “She looks amazing! I’m so proud of her and all she’s accomplished!” Lana applauds her friend and exercise partner, though her eyes narrow as the blonde singer catches a glimpse of her and waves like an excited schoolboy. She ignores Nick, pretending she didn’t catch his very obvious attempt to garner her attention.
Rorin || As the evening light darkened the shadows of the screeching gaws overhead a young man made his way along the thinning throngs of both locals and foreigners of all make and model. The dark cloth and leather of his outfit didn't seem quite like the party going fashion but there little else to drive the half elf apart from the crowd as he gathered small snacks from the buffet tables and observed the festivities quietly with his brilliant silver eyes. He didn't seem the social type, despite his comfortable smile in his gentle face, There was a slight blush that came up on his face quickly before burying most of it in either a cloak or food as the sight of the hostess was something to truly behold. A breathtaking beauty for the ages, to be sure. The store seemed a good venture, the event a success, and as he thought about it a small number of potential purchases even came to mind.
Zahrani had heard wind of a new shop opening, the feline mingling with the other guests in her more humanoid form. She appears to be in more feminine attire than previous fancy shindigs, the paladin clad in a simple grey dress with blue geometric accents in the structure and pattern of the cloth. The dress is sleeveless and fits her athletic form quite well. She had constructed it, with a significant amount of help from other members of the Isran Collective. Speaking of which, there were other members of her feline colony visiting the store as well, delivering small-talk to guests and assessing the product sold. Her dreads are tied into a simple braid behind her head. Cyan eyes survey the new establishment, her tail swishing behind her as she notices Talyara. With a warm smile, Rani approaches the green-eyed witch, gently placing a hand on her shoulder so as not to startle her. She wonders what Taly will think of her current outfit.
Gevurah resents every moment she spends on the surface, but even she must admit that the surface flora and fauna is more varied and potent for magical experiments and rituals. The matron has taken an interest recently in an uncommon seaweed native to the ocean east of Cenril. Today she traveled alone to the surface, for what has she to fear up here? Surfacers were weak, a fact so self-evident that uttering it borders on tautology. Of enemies she has few, and of type only one: other drow. Jealous matrons and ambitious priestesses who eye Gevurah's throne are her only concern. Armed with this believe, she pushes past the elves, humans, felines, and other disgusting sun-loving races without bothering to appraise them. Who would be dumb enough to cross her? She only stops short when she catches sight of Thalra, the proprietor and, to Gevurah's surprise, a drow. Her lips curl in disdain at this race traitor. She barks at Thalra, "To which house were you born." Meaning drow houses, current and extinct.
Talyara turns when she hears the familiar sound of her sister’s voice and smiles up at her to return the chaste kiss to Lanara’s cheek. She smiles sweetly as her emerald eyes sweep her sister’s attire and she chuckles. “You look gorgeous as always. We all pale in comparison to you. I probably look like I’m twelve by comparison,” she adds with a wink before shifting her gaze to her sister’s date. Her eyes darts between the pair and she arches a brow at the animal empath, silently asking if they are a -thing-; however, she extends her hand out towards the assassin and grins. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Egg Beater, I hope you are treating my sister well?” Talyara doesn’t believe he is in the export business at all—the knows the type of men Lanara dates but she holds her tongue for now. The hand on her shoulder causes the witch to turn and she smiles when she sees Zahrani. “Hey you!” she says cheerily, wrapping the feline in a one armed hug. “You look lovely this evening!”
Rorin 's half-elven ears twitched, the warning bells of impending doom tinkling in his head. As he looked towards the hostess once again he could swear there was some sort of ominous shadow, a kind of strange scent in the air that bore the smoke and miasma of the dark... a drow, it would seem, one he didn't recognize, with a rather angry look on her (admittedly beautiful) face. "Wonder if something's wrong..." the perpetually young man put down his place as he felt the warm sensation of his blade waiting to be called into his hand. The pendant around his neck pulsed quietly, waiting, anticipating. Rorin made his way quickly to part of the crowd behind Thalra and peered at the stranger with his silver eyes watching with intent.
Elioyahazer widens his eyes at being called ‘Egg-beater’. What is that all about? He thought she was going to stick to something a little easier? He does his best to stifle back any attempt at correcting her. If the world knew him as egg-beater from here on out, so be it. Egg-beater and his export business. Speaking of, what the hell is he to say about this new ‘business’ if asked. Thankfully Taly does not. “It’s a pleasure. But Eli will do much better than Eggbeater.” He meets her offered hand with a shake but he quirks a brow to Lanara momentarily, and tries to not laugh the situation off. They aren’t a couple, but happen to be out on a date. If his own date could get his name right. He wants to sigh. The entrance of another unfamiliar person, no longer confuses him. He supposed this is the way of the world outside of the deserts.
Zahrani gently wraps her arm around Taly, smiling softly and planting a kiss on the witch's forehead. "Thanks. It's always good to see you." Her bright blue eyes, contrasting with dark-brown skin and makeup, turn to Lanara and her breathtaking attire. "And you as well, Lana." She offers a hug and a kiss on the cheek for the brown-eyed elf, should she want to give the feline an embrace as well. Her gaze wanders over to the crimson clad male in their company, offering a polite nod, "A pleasure to meet you..." As someone who deals with people who mispronounce her name and the names of her brethren, she's not convinced he goes by ~Egg Beater.~ "My name is Zahrani, of the Isran Collective here in Cenril. I am a-" She stops speaking before turning to see a rather angry-sounding drow woman addressing the hostess. The paladin of Cyris looks towards an older male feline who had been mingling, making a silent gesture to him. ~Keep your eyes on that one, just in case.~ indicating Gevurah. The grey-maned dapper cat, known locally as Bruiser, makes no acknowledgement of this signal, but from a distance he keeps his eyes and ears on the exchange between Thalra and Gevurah.
Thalra returned the mic and shook hands with those that had arrived her smile and genuine present up until the hoarse voice demanded to her know her house. Turning her eyes to the other drow, She casts very cold stare with a very dark cold smile her way. "None from your shadowy plains, none that live anymore." Drawing hint that somehow this drow had done away with the drow from a few housed under the land from where she had come from across the sea. "Ladies gentleman this is party, let us enjoy the food and good tastes and leave the rivarly to less happy times." She turned with a smile, and soon found Lanara, and Talyara. "Hello I am so happy you both could attend, and who is this?"
Lanara merely smirks as Taly gives her that knowing grin, trying to gauge whether she’s into the assassin or not. She’d leave her guessing, though the blush that appears in her cheeks, is somewhat, a giveaway. Lana shakes her head and laughs at the compliment from her sister, “Please! None shine a candle to your beauty, dear sister.” Sipping her champagne, she quirks a brow as Zahrani appears, and gives the feline a warm smile. “Rani, darling! You look lovely. That dress is exquisite on you.” A faint pause, before she motions to Eli, “This is my handsome date, Enema.” Lana can tell she’s probably grating on Eli’s last nerve, so she surprises them both by standing on her toes and delivering a chaste kiss to his cheek. Once her lips meet their mark, she’d slightly turn her head to whisper in his ear.
Gevurah stares over Thalra's shoulder at Rorin. "Is this your slave," she demands to know from Thalra, her gaze fixed on Rorin with disgust at the thought that this drow woman (or some sub-species thereof) might lie with a human. Lanlan and Gevurah had one joked about human 'members' and how pink and pathetic they mist look. She grins at the thought of Patron Lanlan, which puts her in a better, more affable, mood. "I am looking for pure silver moon algae, shopkeep. Have your man fetch it for me if you have it."
Rorin paced his breathing. "Howdy, Thalra," he spoke without care to where his words landed around or on or between the strangers, "I came to tell you congrats on opening up your shop," he gave a slight bow and wide smile, he was, after all, a big fan of Thalra's after that uh, rather spectacular dance. The memory was certainly a good one that had stuck with him and he'd hoped to see her again, and he told her as much too.
Shishi is blissfully unaware, as usual, of the intricacies of bureaucracy that have led to him being here for this grand opening. Some chamber of commerce in Cenril has seen fit to invite possibly the greatest Lithrydel celebrity of all time, the two time, defending Titan of Winter to this humble grand opening. It is entirely possible that Mayor Uma herself had to sign off on some expense report for an appearance fee for the so called Blue Demon that walks through the front door while simultaneously handing back a quill he has just used to sign an autograph for some starstruck Cenrilite that's never gotten to see the Titan in person before. The assassin-turned-prize-fighter hears something about shadowy plains as he enters but figures it must not be about him after glancing towards the source and spotting a Drow. They do shadow things too, of course.
Talyara nods knowing to Eli as she gives his hand a shake. “Sure, sure. Pleasure is all mine, Egg Beater.” The witch doesn’t seem to be paying attention to what he’s said and merely scoffs at her sister. Everyone knew that of the pair, Lana was by the more attractive of the two. Taly then begins to pass plates to the rest of their little party as a portly woman behind them begins the huff about their inability to move quickly through the buffet line.
Elioyahazer is about to offer Zahrani an actual name, when Lanara calls him an Enema. He visibly cringes at this. “Its a pleasure to meet you Zahrani.” He words the name without accent. Names were big deals from where he hails from. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go find Lanara’s date, Enema. I’m sure he’s around here somewhere.” Eli shakes his head, and turns. Enema? Really? What are you doing here Elioyahazer? Being made into a buffoon? Seems like it. The assassin takes his leave, and begins to meander through the store, ignoring the commotion of Gevurah entirely.
Gevurah stumbles forward and catches her balance as she is shoved aside by Shishi's outsized ego. Awe-struck shouts of "The Titan of Winter!" grate on her every last nerve and she snaps at Thalra loud enough for Shishi to hear, "As if living on the surface alone were not pathetic enough, I see you invited the circus, and hired a second-rate clown too."
Rorin almost moved forward to catch the stranger drow by instinct. Chivalry is alive and well, even for potentially evil purple ladies.
Zahrani turns back to Elioyahazer before he leaves, responding once more, "A pleasure to meet you, Eli. You can call me Rani." Her voice has a hint of a feline accent, though the real giveaways are the black fur on her elf-like ears, and the black panther's tail swishing idly behind her. She can't help but feel bad at how Lana is butchering the man's name, and the look of sympathy she gives to him shows it. As he leaves, Zahrani accepts the plate of food from Taly, before turning to Thalra and offering a hand in greeting, "I don't think we've been properly introduced. Your shop looks wondrous."
Thalra turned to notices rorin behind her and of course this other drows impatience with her. "I am glad you make it rorin, I will want to dance with you before this time is up, but one moment for just a second." She turned back to the drow. Crossing her arms. "He is not my slave, I courting suicide my dear, and I have found it to be quite pleasurable more so then i have ever found anywhere under the earth or above it, Pure Silver moon algae in the proof, hmm yes I do have a batch of that, how much do you need thats around 20 gold an ounce. She smiled. But there was no love in it only business.
Gevurah scowls at Zahrani's interruption. She growls a warning. "Wait your turn, cat."
Gevurah said to you, "I'll take 100 ounces if you have it."
Lanara receives his whispered reply, her eyes widening as shock registers on her pretty face. He was angry with her for being unable to pronounce his name? Why would an assassin want his real name given to others in the first place? She’s about to give him a response, but he turns and weaves through the crowd, leaving the elf dateless and confused. Lana doesn’t meet her sister’s gaze, nor does she reply to Thalra or Zahrani, she’s –that- upset, however, the woman that huffs behind her, gets the wrath of the witch. “You shut up! You’ll eat when I –decide- to move! You have more rolls than the bakery as it is!” Those dark eyes narrow into a menacing glare, as the impatient woman mouths the word ‘bitch’ and then things start to get heavy. Lana forms a fist and jabs the woman in the throat, causing her to drop her plate and clutch her throat, desperately fighting for air. The crashing of the glass hitting the pavement causes many to glance Lanara’s way, and the witch merely steps over the broken plate and storms out of the tent and onto the beach that lies beyond.
Thalra said to Gevurah, ""I give you 150 ounces if you get out of my shop and party as soon as you pay, the additional 50 is your incentive.""
Thalra said to Zahrani, " thank you, It been stressful but it has worked out well"
Shishi shrinks slightly when he spots Gevurah, not wanting to deal with the token attempt on his life that comes along with being in the same room as the drow priestess, but when she sees him and makes her little quip, he stands up straight again. "Oh good, you're here, Gravula. Maybe they can brew you something here that makes you bearable. Miracles are known to happen from time to time..." After he says that, the vampire pretends someone is calling him over by the buffet, and rushes that way, in the opposite direction of that villain Drow.
Gevurah turn at the sound of the fight fight and laughs, applauding Lanara on. "A surfacer with some fight! To the death!" But it is not to the death. Gevurah frowns, disappointed, and turns back to her business with Thalra.
Thalra said to Rorin, "I appreciate the gesture rorin, I would prefer that we test that chivarly on the dance floor *she smiles his way*"
Talyara reaches out to grab Lanara’s fist, having thrown her own plate of food on the ground in an effort to break up the fight before it starts, but she’s too late and the woman gets one of Lana’s throat punches, just as legendary as that derriere of hers. Taly can empathize with the woman, she’s been on the receiving end of it before. “Lana!” Taly calls, leaving Thalra and Rani and the bickering others to give chase to her sister.
Jynx had been running late today! The young pre-teen feline came sprinting down the street like a black little blurr. Coming to an abrupt stop, her wavy black hair slaps her in her face. Long black skinny tail swishes with annoyance behind herself as she swats her hair out of her face. She looked cleaner today then the first time Thalra had met her. She glanced about the room at all the people and potions about the store. A shy smile curls her light pink lips as she does her best to quietly make her way to Thalra's side. Once at the lovely woman's side, she'd nuzzle her head into her arm, if possible and gaze up at her with a sheepish smile, "Sorry I'm late, Miss Thalra," Purred the sweet young feline. Feeling a bit shy, she'd do her best to hide a little bit behind the woman while looking at all the new faces.
Zahrani sees that Thalra is attending to Gevurah as a customer, the paladin turning back to Taly. She's about to say something about how they should have dinner together again, or go on an outing or something of that nature. Sadly, she's interrupted by Lana's decision to straight up punch a woman in the throat behind them and stomp off to the beach. After making sure the rounder woman isn't seriously injured, and calmly advising her not to pursue the witch, the panther simply says to Taly, "Never a dull moment."
Gevurah laughs at Thalra's little stand. "I leave when I want to, and you'll see to it I leave pleased. I'll take 150 ounces and," she nods towards the sign announcing the potion contest. "I will to enter the contest. Do you plan to stop me?" She grins darkly at the thought like a cat eager for a mouse to make a wrong move.
Elioyahazer is clearly not paying attention while meandering and nearly collides with the fleeing Shishi.
Shishi cringes when he reaches the buffet-turned-brawl. "What the heck..?" He mutters while scooting behind the woman who got punched in the throat and grabbing a chicken thigh with his bare hand.
Gevurah , upon Jynx's entry, curls her lip upwards like she smells sour milk. "Felines..." she mutters. She searches the crowd for Shishi again and notices, with satisfaction, that he avoids her. "Not so brave without a crowd to back to you, eh Titan of Whimpers?"
Rorin isn't really sure what's going on here anymore, as communications seem to have broken down with all parties and the seemingly acute growth of them. "I'd like nothing more than another dance, once things have settled a bit more. For now, I'll continue to enjoy the festivities! It's a truly wonderful party," he complimented their gracious hostess and peered at Gevurah without much overt malice before returning to the concessions. He even saw Zahrani, and he made a point of giving the fellow paladin a wave. There was also lanara, a beauty in her own right, but Rorin's skills as a socialite, or the lack thereof, were evident as he resumed much the same position he had before Gevurah's sudden intrusion, albeit with one tapered ear pointed in Thalra's direction.
Gevurah really wishes Lanlan were here so they could high five over her sick burn
Shishi knocks into Elioyahazer and drops his piece of chicken onto the assassin's chest. One bite was taken out of it... what a waste.
Elioyahazer wipes the wasted chicken juice from his formal attire. What a waste indeed. That looked like good chicken!
Lanara feels her anger somewhat lessening as she locks eyes with the people’s champ, Shishi. She had his poster hanging on her bedroom wall. She had healed him at the last redskull event. But then, Gevurah incites her anger some more, mentioning to fight to the death, and it’s all the brunette needs at this moment in time. A release. Unfortunately, Taly is in hot pursuit and chasing after Lana, and thinking it’s the hungry wench from the buffet line, she’s in for a surprise. Turning around abruptly, Lana attempts to clothesline the woman, shock registering as she body slams her little sister into the sand. “Taly!” Bending at the waist, she slaps her sister’s cheek, “Are you okay? What are you doing?”
Shishi said to Gevurah, "How are all those manticore spines you won...? -Oh Wait!" Zahrani waves in return to Rorin, a smile on her face at seeing the young lad again. After realizing Taly had left right as she had said something, the feline sighs, placing her empty plate with the others and turning to follow the two sister witches. A small smile and a black tail-swish is offered to Jynx, before the paladin walks up to Bruiser and speaks quietly, "Let me know if things get any more interesting in here. I'm going out for air."
Thalra didn't grin. "Enter," she said, and moved from the drow. She turned and moved into the crowd spotting Jynx, "Hi, good to see you, and just in time, I need you to keep an eye, and ear on someone, who looks similar to me." Moving toward the crowd she spots someone she met before shishi even though she doesn't know him by name. "Good to have you here, now we can attend to your many further needs."
Talyara screams as Lanara not only turns abruptly but sticks her arm out, and with a sweeping gesture body slams her to the sandy ground. The younger witch’s head ricocheted with a force and she gasps as all the wind is knocked out of her. Stars blink up in front of Taly’s eyes as she lays completely still trying to find her breath. Only when Lana begins to smack her face does she seem to come to. “What am -I- doing?!” she gasps out. “You clotheslined me!”
Shishi plucks up another piece of chicken, a leg this time, and watches the clothesline happen with subtle glee.
Shishi said to you, "Do you make a potion that lets you breathe underwater?"
Rorin is sort of worried. Are there two women brawling over there?
Shishi counts three.
Thalra notices the ensuing chaos and felt she ought to put a stop to it. She pulls mic from one of the backstreet bards and snaps her fingers into it. Causing the sound to echo off the courtyard walls. She smiles. "I am sure everyone here understand there is plenty food and excitement for all, but I expect that you all do know to respect the formality of this place and leave the fighting out of it."
Gevurah grunts at Shishi's comeback. She, a drow with notoriously no chill, reaches into her enchanted bottomless satchel and pulls out a four-inch long slithering serpent. With Shishi in her sites, she whispers an enchantment into the serpent's ear then releases the snake in vampire's direction. The serpent stiffens like a dart, sails tapered tail-end first through the air like a honing missile, deftly avoiding Lanara, Talyara, Zahrani, and Elio to hit Shishi's rump (barring any last minute evasions). If the tail impales the vampire's butt, the body will go slack and the serpent's mouth will whip around to bite him within milliseconds, injecting a powerful necrotic venom that will make his butt rot off. Everyone knows vampire butts can't regenerate.
Jynx gave another little purr as Thalra had acknowledged her presence. With just that sentence, she understood who she was talking about. The mean one that everyone in the room appeared to not be so happy with their presence. The young feline would keep quiet as she watched all that was going on. People were hitting each other, others were dropping food, it was quite a mess so far! She would happily give a tail swish in response to Zahrani's. It was nice to see another of her kind! However, she'd keep her lovely green eyes mostly upon Gevurah and her mean mug.
Thalra said to Shishi, "Yes its on the wall the next to elevator where people are trying to make potions, we have three hour versions, eight hour versions and 24 hour versions."
Zahrani quickly walks up to Lana and Taly after seeing the latter get clotheslined. "Oh, by the Gods..." she whispers to herself. This is shaping up to be an interesting night indeed. Inside, Bruiser the well-dressed old-man-cat looks around, glancing at Jynx before walking over to one of the crates of merchandise. Standing next to him was an aged feline woman, with shrewd amber eyes and streaks of silver in her black fur. Roahin, she was called, the matriarch of her colony. She's here on business as well, eager to assess what kind of resources would be made available to the people in her charge. "See anything you like?" Bruiser asks in his thick accent. Roahin responds, "I'm curious to see the results of this potion contest."
You said to Rorin, "If you would like to dance in during the next song I would appreciate it."
Lanara shakes her head as her sister lies there like an idiot, blinking up at the star filled sky. “Taly. Get up. What the hell is wrong with you? This is a –formal- event and you are making sand angels!” Lana extends a hand and hauls Taly up, giving her a faint hug, her voice a mere whisper, “Why did you sneak up on me?! Are you alright?” Once hearing that her sister is mostly uninjured, Lana would then hear the scolding from the microphone. Thalra was angry. She had ruined her friends affair. It was time to leave. “I… I have to go. Goodnight, Sister.” Lana leans in and places a chaste kiss to Taly’s cheek, before leaving the premises as swiftly as she had arrived, her hand still stinging from the throat punch she delivered earlier.
Rorin instantly became much less sure of whatever was going on here. Women were brawling, firing... magical... snake... darts... and he figured that honestly, everything would work itself out and he could just continue stuffing his buddingly masculine features with assortments of various cheeses.
Gevurah is sad to see Lanara going. She was hoping to see a kill today.
You said to Zahrani, "a pleasure to finally meet you, she offers a smile despite the trying times of one present. "Tell me is there particular potion, elixier or tincture you are looking for?"
Jynx glares in Gevurah's direction as her ears flip back in disapproval. She'd make her way over to Thalra's side and tug on her garments, "Miss Thalra..." She starts before she tries to lean in to whisper something to her.
You said to Jynx, "Yes what is it, little one."
Jynx whispered to you, "That lady that looks like you is being naughty. Magic naughty."
Elioyahazer had finally made his way outside after a lengthy battle with the crowd. Away from all the commotion where he can breathe and think. Is this how civilized people gather? The assassin is entirely alone, and wandering aimlessly.
Thalra realizing the situation of what happening lifted the mic. "Attention everyone, If there are any powerful able bodied men in the house, I would like them to escort a certain guest off the premises, and for the guest looking for swimmers breath be aware a snake is been set loose looking for you.
Shishi drops a second piece of chicken when a snake dart impales his left cheek, dangerously near the hole. Milliseconds is far too much time for the reigning Titan of Winter, so as soon as the sharp tail finds purchase, every bit of shadow in the shop wavers unnaturally as the vampire's eyes go through their accursed color change from blue to glowing red. The weaponized serpent, as soon as it looses it's rigidity and tries to curl around for a bite, bursts from the inside out, spewing reptilian guts onto the buffet, sadly. The shadows that caused he explosion float harmlessly in the air for a second before wafting towards the cursed assassin and draping over his shoulder in the shape of the snake they just destroyed. No butt venom was injected into anyone.
Thalra said, "again if there are any able bodied men in the house I need assistance removing a guest."
Zahrani kneels down to help Taly and make sure she's okay. As Lana leaves, the feline shakes her head. To Taly, the paladin asks, "Did she always lash out like that, and I just didn't notice? Or is this a new thing?" She offers a hand to help the green-eyed elf to her feet.
Talyara narrows her emerald eyes and shoot a glare at her sister. She wouldn’t have been flattened in the sand if Lanara hadn’t body slammed her! Still, she had spent enough time with the animal empath to recognize a mood shift so she didn’t try and argue. “I wasn’t trying to sneak up on you,” she says with a wince, a hand coming up to press against the bruise that was already forming on her chest. “I was coming to see if you were alright.” Despite her assault, Talyara pouts when Lana says that she must leave but she makes no move to stop her. Instead, the younger witch just sadly watches her go. Only once she is out of sight does Taly begins to shake the sand from her dress and hair.
Talyara said to Zahrani, "She gets like that sometimes..."
You whispered to Jynx, "thank you jynx"
Rorin saw that a majority of the food was now ruined by the guts of a magically exploding snake dart lodged into a famous vampires butt. This upset him, naturally, and it was with indignitation that he quietly and quickly approached Gevurah. "I believe you've overstayed your welcome," He premised as the sing-song of blessed magic began to dance around him. "It would be best if you depart respectfully."
Gevurah flinches away from Rorin's holy magic but does not budge. "No, I am entering the potion brewing contest, and have bought enchanted seaweed from the shop. I leave when I will. If you wish to keep the peace, tell the Titan of Wincing to behave."
Jynx stayed close to Thalra's side as she crossed her arms over her chest and glared at the bad woman. Shaking her head lightly with her green eyes giving her a very sassy glare. Yup, she was definitely a pre-teen! The young one would swish her tail lightly and continued to watch the woman now that she was being approached by an able bodied man.
Zahrani || Bruiser and Roahin were speaking to a staff member before they see the shadows shifting. Two sets of feline eyes look from Shishi to Gevurah, the cats not moving. Upon hearing the announcement from Thalra, Bruiser makes as though he's going to join any able-bodied men who are going to remove the offending drow. However, his matriarch places a firm hand on his shoulder, and she speaks "We're not getting any younger, you know." Bruiser shrugs, "I wasn't going to just walk up to her." Alas, he stays with Roahin, escorting her out in case of any more Gevurah-related shenanigans. They join Taly and Rani on the beach, and the older feline woman asks the elf, "Are you alright, dear?"
Gevurah said to you, "When does the contest start. What are the rules."
Rorin had a rather sour expression that didn't seem to fit his rather pretty boy features. "You've attacked the guest, and embarrassed the hostess. Unless you'd like to issue a formal apology to her, I'm certain her wish for your removal by any means is rather absolute." He sighed, as he was something of a push over for beautiful ladies, even if they were dangerous and reckless and had a lot going for them appearance wise- "I'll remain as your armed escort for the evening, with an order of my own apologies for your self contrived inconvenience. I do ask that you not force me to result to binding magics," he did not wish to spend an evening cuffed to a sociopath or the like, and thumbed the necklace with the symbol of Arkhen that previously sat under his tunic till now. "Please, speak to lady Thalra and defuse the issues at hand as some sort of practical joke, at the very least."
Gevurah laughs at Rorin's little speech. "You're amusing, jester. Feel free to entertain me for the evening."
Thalra had a headache coming on, "Attention, we the potion making contest is about to begin, if those who are present to begin you will be competing against the to be named judge.
Gevurah steps forward to compete in the contest.
Talyara quickly waves off Roahin with a smile before pressing her hand to her chest once more. "I'm fine," she says gently before looking off to where Lana ran off. "That Egg Beater just really messed things up with my sister and I worry about her," she explains with a small frown. Why had he just stormed off like that, leaving Lana?
Zahrani chuckles, before speaking quietly to Taly, "I'm pretty sure that's not his name. She also called him Enema. If I were him, I'd want to distance myself too." She offers an apologetic smile to the green-eyed elf. "It seems a lot of things collided into a perfect storm with your sister." Bruiser's head turns towards the commotion indoors before responding, "You can say that again."
Rorin attended Gevurah with a hefty sigh. This could easily be made into a dreadfully long night if much more nuisances occurred. Hopefully Thalra wouldn't be too upset that he hadn't removed Gevurah entirely, but he also didn't want to enter armed combat with an unknown opponent in the middle of a crowd. That could go very badly very fast.
Thalra moved into the store moving past the half stocked shelves from the number of purchases made by the guests that evening. Taking a seat at the head of the table which was able to seat 13, she displayed with her arms the "Each to their own workstation you may enter the back room and remove your choice of ingredients one at a time, and then return, only what is in there has been approved of, and if anything is proven to be dangerous or deadly, we will know, you will be drinking your own brew.
Shishi 's pants have a hole in the butt. He excuses himself after half heartedly apologizing for getting snake in the buffet. Really it wasn't his fault though. Who throws a snake? He leaves through the front, vampires don't need to breathe, above or below water.
Jynx loosened up once she hears the man will be at the untrusted woman's side for the rest of the night. The young feline would now make her way to buffet table. Picking through the chicken legs that had been touching the snake bits. Finding a couple, she'd take one in each hand and head off near the potion competition! It'd be fun to see what people would bring. She'd find a nearby basket that had a cushion in it to sit in and watch from. Munching on her chicken legs and looking about the room from person to person, making sure to still be attentive to Gevurah. The little kitten was eyes and ears for the great hostess after all!
Rorin had a knack for potions, being mentored by the elven rangers of the Sage woods, and he actually held some interest in the contest. There could be some really competent competitors out there tonight and it would be interesting to see what everyone would come up with.
Talyara does not seem comforted by Zahrani’s words and in fact, the witch scowls at her friend. “It’s not like she said his name incorrectly one purpose.” Taly prickles, wanting to defend her sister from the ill-treatment by others. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m still getting over a cold and I’m suddenly not feeling all that well.” With a polite smile and a nod to Zahrani, Bruiser, and Roahin, Talyara gathers up the skirts of her tiered dress and turns on her heel to take her leave.
Zahrani shrugs, "I'm sure your sister didn't intend to clothesline you specifically, but we can still hurt the ones we care about by accident. If my words are hurting you, I am sorry." The feline is willing to acknowledge that her words are uncomfortable, and thus she says no more.
Gevurah chooses a work station between other competitors and selects the ingredients necessary from the shelves. She doesn't take anything fancy. The majority of The Underdark potions make due with common ore and minerals. Her hands make quick work of the potion, their rhythm evidence of practice and routine. Though her potion may be a novelty on the surface, it's common place down below in the subterranean caverns of the drow. As she works, she utters incantations in her native tongue that call upon her god for his favor. Woven into her spells are secondary spells that throw heavy zinc flakes into the bowls of unsuspecting competitors when they aren't looking. The zinc will nullify their potions, making them inert. If all goes according to Gevurah's plan, when her competitors drink their potions either nothing will happen, or they'll vomit (not fatally, it would look like a bad reaction to a badly mad potion).
Jynx finishes up her chicken legs as she watches the competitors gather their things. Her attention is brought to the other feline as she just stares at her blandly, waiting for her to notice her, and once she was, she'd give her an ear twitch and tail flick. Not knowing where to put the chicken bones, she'd stuff them into the back of the cushion.
Rorin felt a twitch as Gevurah uttered her spells. Something felt off about that, not in a murderous or malicious way, but something was definitely wrong in a way he couldn't quite describe. He wasn't exactly a master of deconstructing spells by their feel alone, and he had little grasp on the more subtle nuiances of drow tongue, so it was beyond him to even attempt to ascertain exactly what she had done. He felt fine however, and he felt pretty sure no one was going to die, so maybe it just had something to do with the potion she was making. Oh well.
Shishi returns in brand new pants and a fully regenerated buttocks, hopefully in time to view the potion contest.
Rorin feels strangely aware of a quality buttox entering the area, accompanied by a swag pair of pants, for sure.
Thalra watches the competitors build their potions from scratch she watched them craft their works she didn't focus to mainly on the drow she simply she would cheat. and that she would have to use test each of them. "If everyone is ready, I wish for them to pour a little of their potions out into a small dish as I will examine them after word." She pulled a glass vial with a usual liquid within from her bosom, and then said "Drink, and pray to the gods that you were not deceived."
Gevurah is ready to present her potion when called upon.
Zahrani stands up and walks with Roahin and Bruiser back into the establishment. She doesn't see Eli anywhere, but she does notice Jynx and offers her a warm smile. The elder feline woman Roahin spots what the young girl does with those chicken bones. While Bruiser and Rani watch the potion context, Roahin sits next to Jynx and rests a stern, but not angry, yellow gaze upon her, "You can bury those outside or turn them into soup. But don't leave them there." The old Grandmother is aware of the many stereotypes that have been assigned to felines by other members of polite society, and she's not keen on seeing them get perpetuated.
Jynx gets a little extra excited as she decides to abandon her spot and move closer to Thalra. Watching all the others as she then looks to Gevurah. That lady was not trustworthy. Although, she was curious to see what her drink was about to do to herself. The young feline's tail swishes behind her as she stands near the Judge's table with her arms crossed over her chest. Gevurah drinks her potion and, as far as the eye can see, nothing happens. "Observe," she commands as she steps behind the small gap between to sets of free standing shelves. There's about two inches of space between the shelves (they resemble bookcases) which holds Thalra's wares. As Gevurah squeezes through the two inch gap, her flesh pushes through the tiny aperture like dough squeezing through a baker's piping funnel. Her face bulges through the gap like puddy, one eye enlarging like a fish eye before snapping back into its normal shape as her forehead squeezes through behind it, misshapen and soft. When she pops out the other side of the shelves, she resumes her normal shape. "My potion helps the drinker squeeze through gaps as if they were made of dough. It's helpful for escaping tight gaps. The drow use it to escape collapsed tunnels."
Jynx quickly remembered what the elderly feline had said to her and went back to grab the bones she had stuffed in the pillow and just stuff them into her leather wraps on her arms.
Rorin is sickened, yet curious. Gevurah's potion has some pretty wild looking effects that are sure to turn the stomachs of the more upper-boardwalk folks. He wondered if someone could feasibly putty themselves out of a net with such a concoction, or what sort of possible damage they could physically take. It was an intriguing mixture for sure.
Jynx looked pretty stunned by Gevurah's potion and what it had done, however, the vomitting from the others made her frown. Furrowing her brows, she thought it was odd that Gevurah's potion was the only one to do something. "Odd..." Simply says the young one as she looks to Thalra.
Thalra watched not impressed with Gevurah's cheating but impressed she made a good attempt at the putty potion. "We seem to have a winner, but I will need to examine your potion, and compare it to one mine." She looked at Jinx, "On the shelf behind the cashier their is a golden bottle would you fetch it for me, please."
Jynx nodded her head to Thalra as she did as instructed. The swift feline was gone momentarily to fetch the golden bottle and bringing it back to Thalra as told to do so, "Here you are, Miss," Purred the sweet one as she stood at Thalra's right side while looking at Gevurah and her potion.
Thalra watched the drow as she took two bowl that were not filled with vomit and poured Gevurah's remainder in one while she poured hers into another then taking the glass vial she poured the colorless liquid into each, a small poof smoke and the each of the ingredients of the potion separate in the bowel. "Personal concoction not for sale," She said holding up the reverse engineer formula vial. " Lets see here Cotton moss, essence of rubber tree, flourish salts, and boron, Yes all here, congrats you replicated my work, for that you win."
. Zahrani surveys the contest, watching the drow woman demonstrate her potion effect and narrowing her eyes at the fact that every other contestant just happened to fail miserably. If 2 or 3 had made potions that were substandard, that was one thing, but everyone other contestant. That's an odd coincidence.
Gevurah looks more smug than Shishi on a red carpet in Frostmaw. Of course she won. "I'm glad your time on the surface hasn't completely obliterated your judgment, Thalra." It's as close as a compliment as Thalra will get. Player's advice: take it. "My prize?"
Gevurah looks more smug than Shishi on a red carpet in Frostmaw. Of course she won. "I'm glad your time on the surface hasn't completely obliterated your judgment, Thalra." It's as close as a compliment as Thalra will get. Player's advice: take it. "A fair prize. I'll be leaving now. Expect to see me again the next time I need the silver moon seaweed."
Shishi is happy Gevurah got a chance to win today. Sure, she had to wait for a competition that he wasn't part of, but it is a win nonetheless.
Rorin was pretty sure a few people seemed fine, and a few others were total failures, and either way gevurah really did make something amazing. He clapped lightly, not too sure why everyone was glaring harshly, and went a bit wide eyed at the lump sum of gold that was the big prize. "That was really something," he added, glad he hadn't removed her at sword/explosion point earlier in the evening. "Guess it takes real talent to become a dedicated alchemist," there wasn't a chance he could ever make something like that at least.
Thalra faked her smile. "5000 gold and lifetime 5% discount. On everything but the exclusive collection. "Though I would prefer to ship to you by way of slave, such an illustrious individual shouldn't have to come to the surface to get what she wants." She said. Hiding the sarcasm within her tone.
Gevurah is happy Shishi got a chance to see a real winner today. Sure, he's beat her on paper thanks to dim-witted popular voting, but in the absence of "democracy" *hiss* the true winner emerges.
Shishi signs a couple more autographs for those that want them, and one for someone who doesn't want one (Rorin). Then he's gone too. 10,000 gold well spent, Cenril.
Jynx flicked her tail silently as she stayed at Thalra's side. She wasn't happy to see that woman win, but her potion was the only one to do anything.
Thalra nodded to the guests and said, "Thank you for coming, shop will be closed tomorrow observing a religious holiday, but it will be open again the day after at 9." When the drow had left she said to the vampire, "You and the unfortunate ones who were cheated out of a chance to win, you can pick 20 potions of your choice, i won't charge you, I am very sorry for what happened tonight, I do hope you come by again when you need something." Then she looked at
Jynx, "You came, thank you dear one, I am sure the chef won't mind putting out some food to replace what was lost, so you can get more food."
Rorin wasn't sure he would call it awe, but whatever, it was more like respect that she could do something cool and not be a total bastard about it. After the contest he was curious to see if festivities would wind down during the admonishment of the cake or if things would continue to be just as edge-of-your-seat as they had been thus far.
You said to Rorin, "thank you, for everything tonight."
You said to Jynx, "thank you."
You said to Zahrani, "In the future I hope we can more properly meet, it was a pleasure to have you here and you too sir."
Rorin said to you, ""anytime, m'lady," with a smile and a short bow."
Jynx perked up as Thalra talked about her taking some more food, "I'd like that," softly replied the little one as she watched people start to take some potions and begin to leave. She'd simply murmer, "You know that lady did something bad again." At least the woman was now gone, "Who was that woman?"
Thalra shook her head, as she motioned to the servers to begin picking up, and then to the back street bards, "Please one more song, I like to dance with a handsome young paladin." She turned to Jynx "I am not sure, do any of you know?" She asked the remaining guests, rorin and rani.
Zahrani || Roahin and Bruiser offer a polite bow to Thalra, and the elder woman responds, "Of course. We at the Isran Collective appreciate such vital goods and services being available." The older cats turn to leave with the goods they had purchased, and Rani offers a smile and a wave to Jynx before preparing to leave.
Rorin thought about taking up a lute and joining the bad, he wasn't terribly out of practice either, but the cake- which thankfully, had not been covered in exploding snake dart guts, kept him well occupied for the time being. {{Region:Cenril|RPs}