RP:New Year's Ball, And A Fashion Show

Concert Hall

Artia || Kreekitaka had done an absolutely stellar job of getting this room set up for the ball. The first thing one might notice were the walls. Columns of deep black fabric that glowed faintly stretched along the walls and across the ceiling, giving the room a strange weightless feeling, as if by stepping into it you had entered some bizarre yet beautiful universe and the room was drifting through the sky. Stretched in swooshing drapes around the corners and across the ceiling were long sheets of fabric in a dozen different colors, red and blue and yellow and purple and green, each sheet glowing more brightly than the black-glowing fabric. In the middle of the room, spinning slowly through the air yet hanging in the same place, was a chandelier comprised of drifting strips of glowing cloth that just floated there without any assistance whatsoever, moving in slow concentric circles. The centerpiece of the pseudo-chandelier was a small globe that shimmered and sparkled like the surface of water, and as the chandelier spun slowly around it the light reflected off of it and threw beams of color in all directions, bringing the whole room to life. Near the entrance was a crabman with a closet--not Kree himself, but an employee--and suits and dresses of all different sizes and colors, each with something special and unique about it. Some were black with ribbons of glowing color, others shone brightly in rippling patterns. Some couldn't decide what color they wanted to be and changed in psychedelic patterns. All were available to rent for just 300 gold per person for the event, so each person could glow as the room was. But the big centerpiece of the room was the stage. Beyond the normal stage, Kree had set up a long, narrow one with a red carpet that led out into the center of the room, and alongside it he'd set up peculiar lanterns that glowed with a dancing green light, similar to the chandelier up above but self-contained and miniaturized. Looking closely, one could see they were globes of water filled with tiny glowing fish that swirled and swarmed inside, casting their light around in constantly-moving patterns. Benches were moved to have sitting spots along the walls, leaving the main floor open for dancing. Kaiah and Kyla had catered for the evening, the Barkeep at the red ogre inn was seen here setting up the bar with numbers of drinks and mixed drinks ready to serve. Artia, Larket's Apothecary appeared from beside the stage greeting any with a smile upom lusciously plump ruby lips, sleeveless dress has a form-fitting top with one shoulder strap which has a bit of a lacy frill that extends out just a little way. The other side is shoulderless. The skirt part is long and billowy and comes down to almost the floor, wide and loose at the bottom. The whole thing is lighter than something of its size ought to be. Primarily a dark red, but it has narrow white stripes running in spirals down the length of the top, becoming straight vertical bands down along the bottom of the dress. Stitched in flowering, flowing designs in threads of golden light are vine-like patterns that seem to grow organically all over the dress. Each leaf is an intricately-crafted trilobite. On her feet were matching red leather heels, marking the witch a five foot eleven this night. Long dark strawberry blonde curls laid freely along the hourglass form, hair clips throughout the curls glow just like the room. Kreekitaka did amazing at making her dress as well helping the Apothecary decorated the concert hall. Soon the musicians made their way to the stage and softly began to play, the beat was perfect for a slow dance or a little more paced dress.

Pilar came in, accompanied by a new acquaintance, the naga Amber. The vampire was dressed in the gown Artia had given her, a slinky dark blue number that hugged her body and almost made her look like she had curves. It had a wide scoop-neck that left her shoulders bare, and sleeves that came to a stop midway between her wrist and elbow. There was a slit from the bottom of the dress up to the thigh, for movement, which revealed the matching stockings and leather boots she wore. At her throat and on her right wrist were deep, vivid green emeralds. She took one look at Artia and Amber was almost completely forgotten. The witch was absolutely stunning, I mean drop-dead gorgeous. "P-Please excuse me..." Pilar murmured to the naga before making her way over to Artia. At a mere five foot three, the witch towered over the vampire. Still, to Pilar, it only added to her radiance. "Artia, you look... amazing."

Emelyan couldn't remember the last time he'd worn any thing that wasn't absolutely utilitarian. The seven year old boy (allegedly) had even put a fancy bow tie on Sam, who wagged his tail merrily, and sniffed many a behind in greeting. The boy wore a black velvet doublet, with matching trousers and boots, all of fine quality. His hair was combed and held back in gel, the better to dissuade Sam from tampering with it, and ruining his appearance for the one eve he genuinely cared about it. Tonight, he would have a chance to dance with Yukiko. It might be... somewhat awkward, due to his stature, but he was determined not to let the opportunity slip, and sipped on a glass of white wine while observing his surroundings. He wouldn't quickly forget the last festive event he'd attended... it had turned into a bloody battlefield, after all. He waited on Yukiko, and seemed uninterested in otherwise mingling with the other guests. Still, someone watching a seven year old drinking wine might make a fuss about it, and he hoped to the hells that he wouldn't suffer the torments of being treated a child this eve.

Alex entered the concert hall without much excitement, the human dressed in his regular black robes with that familiar blue bandana tied tightly around his neck. It didn't take long for him to look around the room and realize that he -might- be underdessed but hell, he wasn't playing a show so wh- Woah. Spotting the suits for rent he approaches the crab man and offers a genuine look of utter confusion as he tried to decide if the clerk were a prop or a living thing. A quick startle as he is offered a rental snaps him out of it and it doesn't take long for the human to pay the fee and move into a dressing room, returning with the glowing purple ribbons though that bright bandana stayed neatly around his neck.

Amber however was no where near as nice looking as either of them, the beauty potion she had taken earlier had breifly worked before failing. Now she had shown up in a skin tight leather jumpsuit, err well for her upper body the part most naga would normally look a little more human like. Her anthrophormic top was covered in a fine grey leather with an open U shaped neckline that exposed a portion of her large bust, and the curves that flowed down to the more snake half. Green like the rest of her body with silky like scales her amber colored eyes looked about the room. And with one hand she wiped bit of her shoulder length red hair out of her eyes. She nodded to the vampiress as she left and slithered over toward one of the benches sitting down so that her top anthro part could sit straight while the rest of her could coil around the bench. All 30ft of her. (6' tall)

Aira wasn’t sure why she actually decided to go to Artia’s New Year’s ball. She wasn’t particularly fond of the witch and after the last debacle of a party the high elf went to, it didn’t make sense. Yet, the promise of unlimited alcohol was too tempting for the huntress to pass up. She did, however, decided to forgo a long flowing gown, perhaps dressing a bit inappropriately, but she didn’t seem to mind. Stepping into the beautifully decorated concert hall, Aira was happy at her choice of attire, a tight, form-fitting leather dress that scooped low to give quite a show, and short enough to fall only to her mid-thigh. One one, a faint red scar could be seen where Kreekitaka had slashed her at the last ball, on the other a lacy, black garter that held her knife (which she didn’t even bother to hide). Knee-high, leather heeled boots boosted her five foot, eight inch frame to nearly six feet. Her black attire helped her blend into the decorations, and that was fine with her, but it did cause her near white, platinum locks to shine brighter than normal, and her unique copper irises to cast a flickering glow, more so than they ever did. Casting those mesmerizing, metallic orbs around the room, she immediately made her way towards the drinks, not bothering to look to see how else had decided to enjoy the night.

Robert had been invited to the gathering the very day it was supposed to happen, lucky him. The normally scraggly knight strolled into the hall, a pleasant smile on his face as he walked. He wore a well-made silk suit, boasting a glorious silver sheen. Over it, he wore what seemed to be an entirely new surcoat, the long garment flapping against his knees as he made his way into the gathering. He ran a hand through his blonde hair, trying to look the part of the dashing knight he strived to be. Robert looked around, possibly for someone he knew, though, the person he was looking for seemed to not be present. With a quick sigh, he adjusted his coat, and tried to put on his more, dashing expression. Walking with confidence, looking to do the mingling he had heard all about.

Alex is still playing around with the ribbons on his suit when he glances up to the door to spot a familiar looking high elf strolling across the room with a... knife in plain view. A smirk spreading across his lips as he drops the fancy ribbons to let them flow freely as he walks over to Aira by the drinks and begins speaking in flawless elven, "I didn't take you for a ball girl, what with the high anxiety and everything."

Amber slithered over to the drinks, who knows she thought, maybe they have something as strong as Trodicka around here. Drinking a glass of whiskey she smacks her mouth noting at the flavor but disgusted of its weakness.

Aira was just wrapping her slender fingers around a glass of whiskey when a familiar voice caused her to turn. Her platinum tresses were secured over her shoulder with a jeweled clip, falling in soft gentle waves. A smirk twitched in her full lips as she took in Alex’s appearance with a sweep of those copper eyes. “Well, at the last ball I attended, my leg was slashed open and I was arrested for treason. I figured, what the hell? Let’s see the trouble I can cause at -this- one,” she responded in her native tongue.

Artia blushed as Pilar moved up to her, leaning over she placed a light kiss to Pilar's lips. Admiring Pilar attire being the outfit Artia had given her few days ago. Grabbing her hand she twirled the vampire around, with a soft whistle. "You look absolutely stunning as always yourself m'dear. In a few minutes I hope you will accompany myself in a day. I believe last ball we didn't get to enjoy ourselves. This one we will." With that Artia lifted Pilar's hand placing a kiss to her knuckles. Cyan optics gazing into Pilar's, "I need to greet people. Mind keeping me company?" The Apothecary pushed off the stage, locking arms with Pilar as she walked around. Smiling and nodding to everyone she passed by, leaning to Pilar She spoke in soft tones, "Is it bad I'm slightly nervous?" They soon arrived to Robert, "Sir knight, you look well. I hope she shows up." They continued their walk to the bar where Artia took a shot of whiskey, nodding to Aira and the female naga that Pilar had came in with. Unlocking her arm from Pilar, Artia grabbed them both a glass of wine. "To a night of fun." Handing Pilar her glass, waiting for her to take a drink before she did.

Amber said, "Don't they have anything stronger than whiskey, this stuff is as weak as water."

Alex is laughing at Aira's reply when he's caught off guard by Amber slithering over causing him to stagger back a bit, "My god!" he exclaims in common with obvious surprise in his voice. This being the first Naga he's ever seen it scared the hell out of him, first the crab man, now this? Not one to be rude he keeps his reaction as if to play it off but instantly followed him with, "You're beautiful!" and gives the Naga a wink and grin before looking back to Aira with his heart pounding against his chest. "Two minutes in and I've nearly crapped myself." he whispers in elvish before chuckling and moving to stand side by side with the high elf after taking a glass of white wine - odd considering his hate for alcohol. "So, what do you think? Pretty different from Frostmaw, right? A lot of fancy pants looking people about. Makes me feel... very boring and human."

Ayras arrived at the ball to find a crab-man waiting to rent out suits and dresses for the attendees. Silver eyes lazed their way along the sights of the different glowing fabrics, and when the vampire was offered one, he gave a smirk and a brief shake of his head. The knight was already dressed in finery, prepared for the night after seeing a posting for the ball on a public board. Where normally there was armor and exposed flesh, tonight there was a suit of white, accented with a vest, tie, and pocket kerchief that were as red as his hair. Everything had been fitted and sat just so on his form that he looked the part of a debonair millionaire as he strolled along with a single hand in a pant's pocket. His hair, even, was done differently than normal, the long portions pulled back into a tail and the shorter, normally spiked portions lain flat. His first order of business was to check the liquor table. What he chose was a strange looking green concoction, and when he took a whiff of the drink he could detect multiple rums mixed in. A pity he couldn't get drunk, anymore. This night would have been all the better if he could.

Yukiko seemed uncomfortable, standing somewhat stiffly in a shadowy corner of the room. She fidgeted nervously at her dress, while she glanced at the floor. The woman hadn't worn a. . dress. . in years. It was nothing extravagant--just a simple sapphire-colored gown that swept the tops of her feet, which were covered by black slippers. Like her dress, Yukiko's slippers were modest, and upon closer inspection, had been embroidered with small cherry blossom-like floral designs. She didn't regard herself as a very fashionable woman, and preferred more humble, or perhaps even practical, attire. But, if she were going to the ball, Yukiko figured she couldn't very well arrive wearing a full suit of armor, or sporting a more casual pair of pants and a corset. She showed up, dressed more elegantly than usual, in hopes of seeing some familiar faces. Namely Emelyan and his pup Sam.

Emelyan looked to Amber. It so happened, he was the type to keep something strong with him at all times. Well learned lesson. He'd place his own glass of white wine on a table and approach the naga, a little seven year old boy with a metal flask in hand. "If it's strength you desire, try this." Alchemy was a beautiful. It would be moonshine, if it weren't artificially aged and preserved over the course of thirty years. It made the nearly pure alcohol into an unmatchable vintage. Emelyan got drunk when he wanted to, seven year old body or no.

Pilar blushed under all the affection the witch showered on her. She still wasn't used to it, especially in public. She followed Artia, arms locked, and offered her own smiles to everyone they came across. She smiled up at Artia when she asked about being nervous. "No, it is not bad." When they got to the drinks, she offered a wave to Aira, then sighed at Amber. Rather rude to complain about free drinks, wasn't it? Then the little boy came up and offered her something stronger, and she just stared. I mean, she knew he wasn't really seven, but really?

Pilar turned her attention back to Artia, lifted her glass, and drank.

Alex breaks his communication with Aira to spot Emelyan offering the naga a strong brew to which he furrowed his brow, held up the white wine and called over "Hell yeah, kid." and then went back about his business.

Amber smiled at Emelyan and accepted a little of the drink, "It has excellent flavor, but still a little weak for my taste, thank you anyway." She smiled. Opening her bag she pulled out a liquid in bottle that literally seemed to defy gravity inside the bottle. It glowed a vibrant electric blue. Pouring a little in a glass she handed it to Emelyan, "where I come from this is called Trodicka, this particular brand Trodicka blue, is not as powerful as Trodicka Black, but still lives up to the name Liver killer."

Artia 's cyan eyes caught sight of Ayras, she had to chuckle, they both somehow ended up in red and white. Bowing her head to Pilar, excusing herself for a moment  as she swayed up to Ayras, her dress primarily a dark red, but it has narrow white stripes running in spirals down the length of the top, becoming straight vertical bands down along the bottom of the dress. Stitched in flowering, flowing designs in threads of golden light are vine-like patterns that seem to grow organically all over the dress. Each leaf is an intricately-crafted trilobite. On her feet were matching red leather heels, marking the witch a five foot eleven. Making it up to Ayras, a chuckle escapes. "Seems we both are fans of red and white." She looked back at Pilar making sure she walked away leaving her in good company.

Aira inclined her chin when Pilar approached and waved before turning back to Alex who almost caused quite the scene with the naga. She looked at him incredulously with those almond shaped eyes of hers before rolling them and shooting down her whiskey before turning to grab another one. “So no different than usual,” she teased the bard, referring to their first meeting when she had pointed her bow at him and threatening to shoot. One she had another drink in hand she faced Alex once more and jutted out her hip slightly. “Well, so far I haven’t had to sneak away to steal weapons, so already we’re off to a better start.” She clinked her glass against Alex’s before shooting the alcohol down again. “I pretty much just want to get drunk and forget who I am for the night.”

Robert looked around, spying several familiar faces showing up, as well as receiving a compliment from Artia. He nodded and grinned, if it weren't for her, he wouldn't have been so well dressed, or there in the first place. He saw the large vampire that warned him about forest spooks, the 7-year old death-midget he called his boss, as well as quite a few other people he was not familiar with. The knight noticed that the crowd seemed to be gathering around the bar, and so, he found it wise to follow suit. Robert approached the bar, placing his elbow on the counter, and really leaning in. He scanned the counter, finding all sorts of strange concoctions he would never put near his mouth. After scratching his chin, he found something pleasant. "White wine." he murmured, in a pleasant tone, getting himself a glass. He took a sip, "Hrm, not bad." he declared, quietly to himself, before stepping away from the bar, trying not to be an intrusion, after all, it was the gentlemanly thing to do.

Pilar watched Artia go, rather enjoying the view, before she turned to attention back to the people she'd been left with. Hard drinkers all, it seemed. Especially miss "I wanna get drunk and forget who I am" over here. Pilar made a mental note to keep an eye on her throughout the night.

Ayras had been watching the child-thing offer a potent liquor to the naga when Artia sashayed up to him. Her attire had him making a mental note of the very thing she said, and the vampire couldn't help but chuckle at the mirrored thoughts. Those metallic eyes of his swept over the woman, drank in her appearance before they settled on her eyes, a grin on his lips. "They're two of the best colors in the world, I'd say," he replied as he reached over to give the druid a one-armed embrace of greeting. "You look stunning."

Alex knocks his glass against Aira's in return and raises a brow at her determination to get drunk, "First off sister, you'd be scared of a copper eyed woman aiming an arrow at your head too. Second, you might want to slow down or you might not remember it." With a wink he takes a sip of the wine and concludes, "Besides, I need you to stay out of trouble. I have a gift to give you."

Emelyan quirked a brow. "If that was weak to you, then I'm afraid I'll have to refuse whatever is in this Trodicka, for it is most certainly not alcohol." Or natural. "Do enjoy your evening, madam." Sam rubbed his side, signaling him. He looked around the room, taking to a chair to get a vantage, and spotted her. Ah, there she was. Yukiko. His breath caught in his throat. He pocketed his flask, forgot his wine, and walked over to her. Every step was another toe touched to the water, marked by trepidation. He fidgeted, he breathed slowly, he felt a rush go to his head unrelated to the drink. When he finally came upon her, he gazed upon her with an honest and open smile, and honest, stumbled words. "You look... ah....that is... words fail me. You are exquisite, Yukiko." He hardly came up to her bust, but she'd taken his breath away. He was no boy in truth, after all... and she wasn't just any woman. She was Yukiko.

Aira began to chuckle despite herself when Alex talked of being scared of a copper eyed woman pointing a bow at you; she supposed she could be scary when she wanted to be. The huntress offered him a shrug as she went to grab another drink but halted when the bard talked of a present. She crossed her arms over her chest and quirked a pale brow. “Oh? And what might that be?”

Amber slithered over to Aira "Want something a little stronger?" Offering the glass full of electric blue liquid that was almost determined to leave the glass.

Larewen was late to the party, but that could easily be chalked up the excuse that the necromancer simply couldn't find her way. It wasn't true, of course. Larewen was far more capable of finding her way to Larket than she ought to have been Frostmaw, and the fact she had made it there for the last festivity was proof enough that the elf could still get around, sight or no sight. This evening, she had opted for a number of her favored hue, a deep verdant pigment that matched the needles of pine trees. Unlike the last two, this one, while snugly fitting, was not a halter-topped dress, but rather sported a squared neckline and sleeves that were tight around her upper arms and loosened toward her wrists. Her neck was adorned by a golden chain, weighed down by a swirling, emerald pendant that seemed to cast an eldritch glow, much like that which would be found within the walls of House Dragana itself. Unfortunately, the elf could not appreciate the hard work put into decorating the hall as she crossed the threshold, and perhaps she might have gone unnoticed entirely, were it not that the tingling thrum of magic could be felt in the very air around her by those that came too near. A pale finger tapped the air at her side as if to keep part of her mind focused on the magic she bore, whilst the rest of her attention was turned outward. She inhaled, taking in the scents of those present - many she recognized from the Yule in Frostmaw; two of her own kind, one of her own house, and then there was Emelyan. Her tongue clicked against the roof of her mouth thoughtfully, and then she stepped off to the side. The movement was made as if the elf were no longer fearful of where she might step - undoubtedly an effect of the magical aura that surrounded her.

Alex presses his glass to his lips and raises both of his brows as high as they will go as to say "No clue" to Aira while he downs the rest of the wine, the lightweight already feeling a bit different than when he entered the room. "So, what are we supposed to do with the glasses? Toss them on the ground? Take them home as gifts?" He's perplexed at the idea of being at a party and -not- being the one playing the music, which speaking of he really began to listen to. "Not bad. Odd, but not bad. It's all slow..." His hand lashes out to take Aira's arm, "Oh! This is the part where we're supposed to dance and create romance before falling hopelessly in love!" That same smart alec grin spreading like wild fire as he half expected the woman to use that knife to sever his hand then and there.

Artia couldn't help but to admire his own atture, much different than the bloodied up armor he sported the night before last. She had to admit the vampire cleaned up very well, almost didn't notice him unless she didn't see him without his armor. "Oh I agree." She returned his grin with a smile, "Some of my best colors." Her cyan optics locked with his own, red hue flushed on her cheeks at calling her stunning. If anyone else says it, she might believe it for once. Returning the one arm embrace not wanting to spill her wine. Taking a step back she broke the embrace, moving back to Pilar at the bar. Wrapping her arms around her waist holding the female against her with a kiss to her cheek. "How about we start off the dance for the evening?" With that she sat her wine glass down, just incase Pilar said yes. Right about than, the music picked up the volume announcing that the dance floor was open.

Pilar had caught Larewen's scent as the elder vampire walked in, but before she could do anything about it, Artia was there and hugging her and kissing her and what was she thinking about? Oh, dancing with Artia, that sounded about right. She followed the witch to the dance floor, blushing as she noticed they were the only ones out there. But when she looked up at Artia, the rest of the world seemed to fall away. Slowly, they started to sway to the music.

Aira shifted her gaze back to the bar area where empty glasses were beginning to pile up. Turning to Amber, the high elf smiled and was about to accept her offer of stronger liquor when she found her arm being grabbed by the bard as she squealed in surprise. As she found herself angled towards the dance floor she eyed Alex suspiciously. “Maybe I should have paced myself between those shots because I find myself not grabbing my knife to stab you or minding the thought of dancing.” The truth was, Aira had attended quite a few balls in her day growing up in Rynvale and was actually a decent dancer. Hadn’t she had to dance with the master blacksmith at the Yule Ball? “We’ll talk about the romance and love thing once I’ve had a few more drinks in me,” she added with a playful nudge at the bard.

Yukiko stopped fussing with her dress and lifted her head upon hearing a familiar voice. She looked up to see Emelyan, smartly dressed, and accompanied by Sam. The woman broke into a smile, obviously happy to see the pair. “Emelyan,” she said, “Don't you look sharp this evening!” Yukiko looked over at Sam, grinning widely at the hound, “And so do you, Sam! -I like your bow.” The woman chuckled before turning her attention back to Emelyan. “So are you having fun?” she asked sincerely. Yukiko leaned down a bit, getting a bit closer to the boy, “Anyone pinch your cheeks yet?” She laughed lightly and shot Emelyan a playful wink.

Khitti finally showed up. FINALLY. It's not like she knew where Larket was and had to ask directions because you know, whatever. Anyway, she shows up and she's like..super awkward. Because people. And so dressed in the casual dress Kreekitaka made for her, which was of course a lovely little black dress. Made from the finest lanternshark fabric, in the light it was just a flat black, no shimmer, nothing. When she passed through the shadows, however, it glowed a faint green. The dark ranger keeps to herself, verdant hues darting between the people present. A little anxious about the whole thing in general, she idly plays with her long red bangs, the rest of her hair in a tight braid along her back. She finds a nice place, all by her lonesome, but she doesn't look like she minds it at all. People were awful, you know.

Ayras silently agreed with Artia's assessment of the two colors as he watched her walked back to Pilar. He chuckled to himself as he thought about the other night, remembering the other woman being so protective of the witch. With a shake of his head he went back to his drinking, the green liquid brought to his lips and a sip taken. Hm. A sweet flavor, a hint of coconut, the multiple rums, and...was that pineapple? He'd have to remember this drink. Or, at least, he'd have to remember it if he ever learned what it was called. His attention began to wander about, his eyes more fully examining the others present. The naga present was certainly an interesting sight, but he still couldn't shake the feeling that the child-thing present looked exceedingly out of place. He almost wanted to ask where the kid's parents were, but he decided against it.

Emelyan took the compliments, and the joke in stride. To her first question he answered, "I am now." That was right about the same time Sam 'burfed' his acknowledgement of how sharp he looked in a bow tie. And he hadn't peed on -anything-. For that matter, neither had Emelyan, 7 though he may seem. "They have not yet, and I would rather it stayed that way. He would offer her a gloved hand, dipping into a graceful bow. "Madam Yukiko, may I have the pleasure of a dance?" Emelyan was actually a very practiced dancer, though that had been simply training for politics. He'd only once danced for pleasure... in all his life, this would be his second time.

Alex was genuinely surprised that Aira didn't try to take his hand off and took her words as an acceptance to dance. Wasting no time the bard leads the high elf out to the dance floor joining Pilar and Artia, he whispers quietly to her "Watch your feet, I've done this... like once... Alright, never." the admission doesn't seem to phase the bard as he takes point in the dance, leading Aira with every step while secretly hoping she'd take over at any point.

Robert stood by the bar, watching all the people speaking. He wondered if he should partake in that, after all, we was the not-at-all infamous Sir Robert! So, in a bout of wisdom, he simply stood there, solemnly drinking his wine. Well, at least until the music picked up, it was difficult to bust a move on the dance floor by one's self, especially when there was slow-dance music in the air. It was death trap, a death trap of dignity. Though a Robert pondered, he forgot if he had any dignity in the first place. The knight gave the hall another quick glance, looking at the people. Drat! Everyone he considered easy to talk too, was occupied with something, something he would be a fool to interrupt. So, the ever so wise Sir Robert, sat by the bar, drinking, and staring at the ceiling, something he was good at.

Amber taking a drink from the glass nobody wanted, tears streamed from her eyes and small little electric sparks danced from her mouth. "Yup, just like home." she gasped. and put the bottle to the side. She made her way over to somone, anyone somebody she could visit with.

Larewen had found a place to linger, a place where she'd not be in anyone's way. It was odd, that the elf so willingly attended these sorts of events alone. One might think she'd be on her lover's arm, at the very least. She wouldn't have complained, if she'd had that opportunity. Pressing her lips into a thin line, she inhaled the scents of the room once more. Khitti crept past her en route to her own lonely spot, and as she passed, even if the dark ranger did not see her, she might feel the aura that surrounded the necromancer. Regardless, the elf's head turned, blind eyes following behind the other, albeit not quite on their target, as she called out, "Khitti."

Artia twirled Pilar out to the dance floor, placing her arms on the females waist, Artia wasn't a bard but her voice was soft as a rose petal, sweet as honey as she didn't care who heard her singing to the vampire in her arms. The music beat went perfect to her words, maybe Artia planned it, "So promise me something, right here and now. I'll never lose you in a sea of a faceless crowd." She spun the vampire out,bringing her back in to have Pilar's back against her chest. Placing her cheek against the vampires, still singing to her. "Scream it from mountains, I care for you out loud. In quiet whispers you'll remind me what i found." Spinning Pilar around she pulled the vampire tightly against her, swaying them side to side to the beat perfectly. "And I swear not to give up on you I swear that I'll always tell you the truth,  swear to bring you light in the darkest nights." With that she was done singing to Pilar and finished dancing with her till the song ended.

Aira tilted her head to the side, inclining her tapered ear towards Alex to catch the whisper. She allowed the bard to lead for a while, eyes widening as she realized he wasn’t lying about his inexperience as he tread on her foot once again. Wincing she halted him for a moment, adjusting his hand on her waist, and entwining her fingers with his other hand. Leaning close she would begin to mutter the movements under her breath, “Left two steps, now back, spin.” And so the huntress continued to whisper instructions, grinning and shaking her head slightly as he managed to trod on her foot once more. “Better.”

Khitti hadn't even noticed Larewen. It had honestly been so long since she last spoke to her and mixed with the fact that she was so wrapped up in her own anxiety-filled thoughts, that she passed right by her. When her name is called, there's a bit of a panic, but only because she wasn't exactly ready to do any sort of modeling whatsoever. Thank the gods it wasn't that, however, as she turned her head to look towards the elder vampiress. Immediately she knew something was off, but she didn't speak of it, instead merely copying the woman, "Larewen."

Yukiko chuckled at Sam's “burf,” giving the found a firm nod. “You're very welcome!” she said, stifling yet another chuckle. She wasn't laughing at him—she couldn't help herself! He was so cute. Yukiko blinked briefly, seeming surprised by Emelyan's invitation to dance. The woman's face flushed slightly, her usual gentle ivory complexion turning a bit rosy, if only for a moment. A rather reserved woman these days, she was a bit shy. It didn't help that she hadn't attended a social gathering in years. . Or worn a dress. Probably. Ever. Yukiko smiled, taking Emelyan's hand with some hesitation. “I must warn you,” she began slowly, “I'm not much of a dancer. . "

Pilar was practically swooning from Artia's song. She'd never been serenaded before! As the witch sang, she felt the blood rush to her face, her eyes never leaving Artia's. She seemed to have been thoroughly charmed by the witch's voice, though there was no magic afoot. No literal magic, anyway. Just the magic of ~*~romance~*~.

Larewen is oblivious to the fleeting moment of panic, and perhaps the only hint of it was in the way Khitti returned the elf's greeting. She blinked, perhaps unused to being greeted in the same manner that she greets others, and then lifted a shoulder briefly. Her lips parted, and for a moment it seemed as if the elf might have something to say, but the words fell short and for a brief moment, perhaps because she had lost some control over her expressions, the woman appeared frustrated. The result of her sudden inability to function was a raise of her chin and an upward twitch of her lips in a more amicable greeting to the other, only her direction was off with that, too. Really, she was nodding at the decorations past the dark ranger. Perhaps she ought to wink at them, too.

Silvaria entered late. She was always late. Sudden anxiety flooded her as she entered the very full room. Quickly she fixed herself for the third time tonight then headed towards a semi dark corner, but not before she nabbed a wine.

Alex is actually enjoying the dancing a lot and doesn't make any effort to hide it, the smile on his face being one of genuine excitement. He leans in to his partner and drops the whispering and elven tongue speaking in his common that is laced with a thick Norwegian accent. "Do you see them watching us? Do you think they think I'm cool? Because, I totally think I'm cool right now. Like, if an illusionist could capture this moment and play it back for me I feel like I'd be sitting there thinking "wow, that's one cool guy", you know what I mean? I mean a scawny bard dancing with a lovely woman like you? And human at that! Unheard of." His joking ceases as he concentrates on the instructions and begins to improve a bit more in his dancing. Staring into Aira's eyes he changes back to a more serious tone utilizing the elvish tongue once again, "So. You remember how I promised you a piano?"

Ayras kept to the sidelines as people began to dance. Once more did his eyes travel, and it wasn't long before he spotted another face he had seen the other night. The hard soles of his dress shoes clacked ever so softly against the ground as he moved over towards Robert, his liquor passing through his lips once more before he spoke to the lad. "I do hope no more trees have stolen your sword from you."

Emelyan shook his head with a grin at her embarrassment. “I’ll lead.” Indeed, he led Yukiko to the dance floor, with the grace of a boy who knew how to walk in a hundred and more cultures, no longer stifled by his usual forced formality. The dance was an art… one he’d learned with precision, for no greater purpose than to play his hand at espionage over many a year. Now, he would use those skills he retained for a different, perhaps ultimately greater purpose… passion. It was in every movement, a hand slipped gently around her waist, her other hand held in his. He compensated well for the difference in size brought on by his physical age, managing to not make a mockery of the dance by it, but instead bringing it a new perspective, in his own way. His orange eyes were locked on Yukiko’s own, his body moving with practiced ease, guiding her along with the grace of gently flowing waters. There was nothing in his eyes but her own, nothing outside of their little personal haven, their ephemeral bonding through a contact and rhythm shared, a bond Emelyan could share with no other. In his eyes was something beyond utter infatuation, something that approached worship. He loved this woman, down to her very soul. It came with a sort of possessiveness, of course, but he thought nothing of it. It was enough to see her, it was better to be in her presence… it was bliss to dance with her. The rest of the ball didn’t exist, for a few long, long moments, that were yet far too brief in the infinite stretch of time. A memory was made this eve, that would shape his soul forevermore.

Robert was on his second glass of wine, and had only done so much as to smile at people! He sighed, quietly and respectfully of course. Until he saw someone else enter the hall, someone he had seen by a road before. Though, before he had the chance to talk to them, they were already in a dark corner. "Drat!" he quietly murmured, swirling the wine, as he shiftily looked side to side. In a bout of wisdom, the knight took a few steps away from the bar, distinguishing himself from the crowd! Genius! He then continued to look, hoping for something, or at least the entrance of someone he was looking forward to meeting, since the day's beginning.

Aira turned her head around to look at the other party goers when Alex mentioned that they were looking at them. She couldn’t help but genuinely smile at the bard’s enjoyment of their dancing, even if it was a bit erratic at times. “I don’t know about me being a lovely woman, but you’re a cool guy,” she nodded her agreement, squeezing his hand. “Very cool guy,” she chuckled. As their dancing continued, Aira felt his gaze upon her face, and turned to meet his blue eyes with her copper ones. A small grin pulled on the corners of her lips when he mentioned the promise of a piano. “Yes, I remember.”

Artia stepped back and curstied before Pilar, "Let's go get us a drink m'dear." In back of her mind she wondered where Xzavior was, but she was happy with being here even without him. Taking Pilar's hand she moved to the bar, grabbing a shot of whiskey. Winking to Pilar, she planned to make the night great for her. "Anything you need Pilar dear?" She looked to Robert and then to Ayras, hearing Ayras comment about his sword she choked on her whiskey. "Ayras.." She pit her fingertips to the plump lips trying to hide her laughter. Oh gosh did he really say that to Robert?

Amber by this time at already retreated to the same dark corner the foxkin had been heading towards and now she was bonking her head against her lower coils, "Stupid Stupid instincts."

Silvaria downed her first glass of wine quickly, hoping to take the edge off this anxiety ridden situation. For she was not use to so many persons in one place. Sighing as she stared at the empty glass she decided it was time to make it to the bar at least. Setting her glass down she took off her cloak and folded it neatly and placed it in the corner. Her pale hued ears and tail twitched with all the noise. Turning to with a last sigh of self courage she took a step towards the bar, eyes focused only on that one thing.

Robert turned to see a familiar face. It was Ayras of all people! "My sword? Trees? Well in fact, I might add that earlier this very day, a willow nicked my rapier." Robert smiled, looking up at Ayras, after all, he was five inches shorter than the man. "Ransack any bandit operations lately?"

Khitti glanced briefly towards the dancers. She saw Emelyan and his parter, Alex with his, and then...then she finds Pilar with the very woman that had broken the younger vampiress' heart. There's a clear look of irritation present, but Pilar actually looked happy for once. The dark ranger would likely have words for her, but not now. Now wasn't the time. Larewen is fixated on again out of the corner of her eyes, the red head feeling weird and out of place at such an event yet again and even more so in her strapless dress. Quite unaccustomed to the finer things in life, she shifts her position awkwardly, her body leaning a bit to the left beneath the stilettos that held up her lithe frame. "You've been gone for some time." was all that was said. What else could she say? Or should she? People in general were hard to talk to, but now the head of the household she dwelled in was here too? That's just wonderful.

Pilar still had stars in her eyes from her dance with Artia. She followed Artia back to the bar, grinning like an idiot. She had forgotten all about her troubles from that day, and from the day previous. When asked what she needed, she murmured, "Only you..." Oh yes, she was smitten all over again. In her lovesickness, she didn't even notice Ayras or Robert.

Alex feels his heart race a bit faster as Aira complimented him as a cool guy and squeezed his hand, a silly thing to consider a compliment but one that meant the world to him. Seeing the smile on the high elf's face brought him a sense of joy and excitement as he maintained the stare and spoke in all seriousness, "Reach into my left pants pocket. Nothing perverted... as far as you know." A chuckle followed by a tilt of his head towards his left. If Aira were to follow his instructions, she would find a very innocent looking platinum colored piano charm.

Amber finally got the courage to return to bar, noticing the foxkin, "Here, try this stuff." Passing her a glowing bottle of blue liquid. "Just word of advice, it wasn't nicknamed the liver killer for nothing."

Larewen dipped her head in Khitti's general direction. "Aye. I've been taking care of some things, traveling, and... coping," she said, quietly. The last word was almost inaudible. Coping with what? Her lack of eyesight, of course. It was odd that she'd chosen to sacrifice something so necessary, so important, to herself for another. It was rather uncharacteristic of the elf, and the longer she was allowed to dwell on herself, the more likely she was to realize how selfless and silly the act had been. Even Emrith, the man who brought out the best in the necromancer, had been unhappy with that decision. Instead, her lips curled upward into a fanged grin. "There are things that need discussing, when you've the time and we're in a much more appropriate place, my dear."

Ayras looked over his shoulder as he heard Artia's reaction to his question to Robert, a single ruby brow raised and a shrug given as if to say 'hey, valid question.' He looked back to Robert as he heard the former-knight's response, and a great laugh was let loose from the knight of Frostmaw. "You really need to learn how to hold your sword," he told the man as he turned and gestured towards where the two women they had been on the road with the other night stood. "Come. Don't stand about by yourself. And to answer your question, no, the bandits have been safe, today. I have to let them relax at some point, after all."

Yukiko enjoyed dancing with Emelyan, even though she felt very much out of place on the dance floor, in front of everyone, in the midst of the ball. The woman was also very impressed with his ease and grace, especially since he had occupied the body of a seven-year-old boy. Yukiko should not have been surprised by the Alchemist's refined ability to dance, however, as she knew that he was no mere boy. Like Emelyan, Yukiko paid no mind to the others in the room; in that moment, the rest of the ball did not exist. Having spent so much time alone, the woman had felt awkward in front of so many individuals. She was afraid of making an arse out of herself, frankly.

Silvaria tensed up as the female spoke to her and slid a liquid of glowing blue in her direction. "Thank you." was all she could murmur at the moment before she quickly threw a shot of it back.

Amber like the foxkin she to took a shot of the blue liquid as well. "They call it Trodicka." She said her eyes streaming from it and small electrical sparks coming out of her mouth from the drink.

Artia 's cranium turned to look upon Pilar, a hand rubbing along Pilar's neck. "I could kiss you all night and not get tired of you. " The vampire had her blushing insanely at her comment of 'only her'. "I hope I lose track of time this night on purpose so I can say I been with you all night." She was about to lean and kiss Pilar again but she pulled a rose from the table, to place it behind her ear. Smiling, Artia leaned in placing her lips softly against her own. Doing the best she could to not make it to much, especially infront of everyone. Pulling back she looked over to Robert and Ayras, "Why don't you two hush and go dance together too?" She chuckled, winking at Pilar.

Artia gave Pilar 1 Ice-Blue Rose.

Aira raised her brows incredulously as Alex instructed her to reach into his pants pocket. Slowly, she released his hand and covered her mouth as she began to laugh. “I was hoping for a few more drinks before I got in someone’s pants but if you insist…” She shrugged her shoulders before following his instructions, slender fingers reaching in and plucking out a small piece of metal. Once the huntress had retrieved it, she opened her hand to reveal a platinum charm in the shape of a piano laying in her palm. Shaking her head with a chuckle she looked back up into Alex’s eyes. “My piano. Thank you!”

Alex gave 1 Enchanted Platinum Piano Charm to Aira.

Robert seemed to perk up as he was propositioned to join the vampire, and the people he had been in the presence of lately. "...Yes! Sure!" he would accompany Ayras if he went over to the two, otherwise, he would just awkwardly stand there, and not say anything, as he was unable to make his own decisions in social settings.

Silvaria 's eyes watered as the liquid slid down her throat. Nothing like the burn of liquor to break the ice. After a few seconds she smacked her lips together and licked her lips. "Quite the kick." she said smiling at the girl.

Khitti took a stern tone then, as the mention of things needing to be discussed was made, "Indeed." Was it because of Pilar? Or maybe she was upset with the elder vampiress for not making good on her promises. Or maybe...just maybe...it was because she had to be here in the first place. Daer was so lucky that he wasn't able to attend. There's a bit of a sad sigh from the vampiress, as if in some sort of an apology to the elder. She doesn't say anything more however, instead contenting herself to stare at the floor.

Emelyan felt his eyes leaking tears, by the time their dance was done. He wiped them away, abashed. "Ah, forgive me, Yuki. I've waited so long for that dance." Sam trotted up to them, and dashed between Emelyan's legs from behind, lifted him up and flopping him over onto the floor before lifting himself up on his hind legs, looking as though he was trying to dance with Yukiko as well. Looked like it was the pup's turn. Emelyan growled behind Sam, after a small groan, and Sam 'burfed' at Yukiko.

Pilar leaned into the witch's touch, sighing. She put a hand up to touch the rose that now adorned her hair as Artia kissed her. It wasn't nearly as long of a kiss as she'd wanted, but they could make up for it later. When Artia turned again to Robert and Ayras, Pilar finally noticed them. She tittered lightly at Artia's comment, and at Robert's agreement.

Amber said to Silvaria, "Extremely powerful kick. *She then took a cake log from the table and swallowed it whole, then licked her lips* "Yummy.""

Ayras moved to where Artia and Pilar currently resided within the hall, his eyes set a-rolling at Artia's remark about dancing with Robert. "The boy can't swing a sword without bumbling about. Even if I were so inclined, I prefer my feet functioning without getting stepped on, thanks." The vampire's attention went to Pilar, to whom he dipped into a short bow. "Lady Pilar, a pleasure to see you this evening."

Alex doesn't try to hide his amusement as Aira pulls out the charm, the high elf in good spirits without knowing the nature of the artifact. He could tease her and lead her to believe what you see is what you get, in fact that's what he'd usually do and get a good bit of enjoyment out of it but maybe that single glass of wine is affecting the Frostmaw Bard with the tolerance of a school girl. "When you want to play, set it on a flat surface and snap your fingers three times. When your done, repeat the steps. Music is a gift to all living creatures and one should never have to abandon their music, no matter the conditions." Blue eyes drop to the artifact and then back to Aira, "Take it with you wherever you go and you'll never be without music again." A smile before he catches Khitti out of the corner of his eyes, the human examining her for a moment and recognizing her distress and though he'd only met her once he casts her a knowing look that speaks volumes within itself - relax and smile. His attention then turns back to Aira as he continues their very slow dance.

Artia whispered something to Pilar.

Pilar smiled and curtsied at Ayras. He'd been behaving himself, so clearly her original distrust had been unfounded. "Likewise, Don Ayras."

Pilar whispered something to Artia.

Robert got denied by the vampire, and made a surprised expression, before taking a step back and sliding up his sleeves, before removing his surcoat, leaving only his silken suit. He then dramatically cast it aside, the garment landing, somewhere... The knight then pointed at Ayras, "So you think you can out do I! The high-flying Sir Robert!?" the knight then struck a dramatic pose. before gesturing to himself. "I bet you can't keep up in the slightest! You're out of your league thou artless hasty-witted whey-face!"

Emelyan was hastily covered by a surcoat some arse tossed aside. Great. And it smelled.

Larewen seemed not to notice the tone, or perhaps in her good humor, chose not to. It was hard to tell with the necromancer. The sigh that followed the single word drew a curious frown to the elf's lips. Rather than let it be, the elf drew nearer to the other vampire and dipped in to whisper to her quietly. Or try to, anyway. Hopefully they don't bonk noggins. That'd be embarassing.

Larewen whispered something to Khitti.

Aira continued to examine the charm in her hand, swaying slightly in the dance as the bard explained it’s use. When he spoke of music being a gift to all and that the charm could magically change into a piano itself she froze, halting their slow movements. She was quiet for a long time, a look of disbelief etched in her features. Then in one swift movement she grabbed Alex, wrapping both arms around his neck and pulling him in a tight hug. Truly, the bard didn’t realize the gift he had given her and how much it meant to her. Affection was not something that the huntress gave freely, especially in front of others, but the gift of music in her life again, was well worth it. Still hugging him closely she whispered, “Thank you...so much.”

Artia awws, "But Robert needs a good dance! Come on Ayras you know you want to go dance!" She chuckled at him, it seemed Ayras had gained Artia's trust.  And so she felt comfortable to jest with him. Placing a kiss to her cheek. "Kreekitaka should be here soon, and then I'll be called away." Pointing to the stage with the red carpet, "I have to model to help him get more business." Taking another shot of whiskey as she grabbed a hot chocolate, that was now room temperature. Mixing it into a glass of red wine, "Try this..it is my second favorite drink." She made herself one as well. Looking at Ayras smiling, "I still can't get over how well we match tonight and we didn't even tell the other." Hearing what Robert said she busted into a fit of giggles, "Oh goddess."

Kreekitaka ||| No, the lights all over the room didn't go out. But the music stopped. And then started again--vastly different from what it had been. A primitive, tribal beat on what sounded like absolutely massive drums burst from the stage, rapidly increasing in complexity as two rows of uyeer--crustaceanoid seaborn--carrying several different types of large drums marched on stage from either end, forming a V shape. In addition to their instruments, each performer also used their own bodies as a drum set--loud stomps on the stage for extra bass, or rapid clicking and scraping of the paddles that ran up and down their backs. Claws were snapped in unison, tempo and pitch were raised slowly, the whole V built to a crescendo--and then fell silent and parted in the middle right as a pair of bright white spotlights focused in the middle of the stage, where Kreekitaka, master of fashion himself, had FINALLY arrived to the scene. He'd had a very rough time getting the performers rounded up but managed to hide his frustration and marched forward with clenched facial crushers and wide-open claws. As he stepped forward, the uyeer band stepped back again, allowing the local musicians to retake their place--though one or two of the percussionists joined in with them and gave the music a completely different, far more -alive- feel than before. "Heyo, YarkeTAH!!" exclaimed the crabman, who was decked out in his finest cape and kilt. The cape was a rich, deep purple on the outside with a huge trilobite sewn to it in fabric that glimmered like the sphere above, outlined in blue light. The inside also glowed, though not as powerfully, and swirled in rapidly-changing psychedelic patterns of color, all of its own accord. His sashes, holding the twin tanks of water to his back that allowed him to breathe, were made from the same sparkling material as the trilobite, and his kilt was elegantly designed as well--swirling designs that started in the top middle and flowed outward like upside-down Vs that had grown tentacles, the kilt had elements of several different fabric types. There was a rich, dark black, the silver shimmer, something white as a ghost, and some kind of bright orange for highlights. Ordinarily I don't spend that long on describing a character's outfit, but today I feel it appropriate. Striding out onto his elongated runway-stage beyond the main concert stage, he flared his cape and struck a rather dramatic pose toward the end. "How are you feeying HHHTHis evening!?" He'd then wait for applause or cheers or something before continuing. He had a show to get started, but first he wanted to work the crowd a little.

Pilar said to Artia, "Model...?" She hadn't realized that Kreekitaka would be putting on a show. She took the offered drink and sipped it when something occurred to her. If modeling was going to be happening, then... She looked around and spotted Khitti standing near Larewen. She gulped, knowing that she was in for it. "Uh-oh."

Alex 's heart melts as Aira wraps her arms around his neck, no hesitation as his arms wrap around her torso to return the sentiment. "No problem, Aira. Enjoy it - it's yours." He replies with a soft voice before humor finds the human's tongue again, "I assume this will suffice as enough payment for you not to kill me in my sleep now right."

Ayras facepalmed as Robert grandstanded, peeking only a single eye out between two fingers to look at Artia. "Do you see what you've done? You've gone and encouraged him. Can't you at least get him housebroken before you let him loose on the neighbors?" With a sigh and a shake of his head the vampire turned to regard Robert, his hands on his hips. "If you're after a dance-off, I suggest you find yourself a ballerina. I, however, would rather not wind up getting punched in the face as you flail around."

Khitti had looked up as she felt eyes on her, finding the culprit to be Alex. While she knew he was trying to help, she manages a faint smile for him, but it's cast away immediately once his attention was back on Aira. The high elf was eyed carefully too, but it was only momentarily as Larewen moved closer. The dark ranger keeps her distance, just enough to hear the whisper and gives her reply in the same hushed tones. Once the reply is given, and Kreekitaka enters the building, verdant eyes widen in horror at the amount of attention the crab-man is given. Oh god. Time to panic. Larewen wouldn't be able to see it, but Khitti actually looked towards the exit, carefully calculating in her head whether or not she'd be able to make her escape before she was likely called upon by the fashion designer. She. Was. Not. Ready. For. This.

Khitti whispered something to Larewen.

Larewen whispered something to Khitti.

Khitti whispered something to Larewen.

Amber slithering away from the the bar Amber grabs some fruit the table. Then noticing another naga she says "hello there."

Artia attention went to where Kreekitaka came and began to clap at his entrance. Her friend was definitely a party starter, holding her hands to her lips and shouted, "Kreekitaka, wooo!!!" Putting her hands she chuckled, taking another shot of whiskey. The female wasn't sure if she was ready to come up to the stage, oh goddess. She took another shot of whiskey and an extra. Looking at Pilar slightly nervous, then offering her friends beside her a smile. She told Kreekitaka she wouldn't tell anyone about the fashion show, now she was about have to strut her stuff to help Kreekitaka. She kept thinking about this is for her friend she can do this.

Aira did not relinquish her grip on Alex right away, especially as he returned the hug. His statement about the gift being a trade for not killing him in his sleep drew a small giggle, a rather odd sound coming from the usual surly huntress, and she pulled back to look in his eyes once more. “Not in your sleep, no. I can’t promise anything while you’re awake,” she added with a wink before turning her attention to Kreekitaka who had just made his grand entrance. Her smile faltered slightly as the two didn’t have the best history, and she turned back to Alex. “I’m going to get another drink,” she spoke softly, “Want to join me?”

Larewen nodded to Khitti, a slight frown still mirrored on her lips in lieu of the woman's words. She'd certainly ask later.

Robert sighed as his dance off was thoroughly denied, though he would not be so easily brushed off. "Aha! You are simply trembling in your boots in fear of the prowess, of Sir Robert!" the knight dexterously flipped backwards, and then slid forward on his knees, before standing up, twirling as he did so. He then pointed once more at the vampire. "I'll have you know my dexterous shortcomings begin and end with the sword!" He then scoffed. "You're simply too afraid aren't you!?" he spoke loudly, turning away from Ayras, holding his nose in the air.

Xzavior was quick on entering the ballroom worried that he had missed most of the ball he promised to attend. Stopping for only a second to look at the surroundings, which was rather amazingly done. He wore a tux similar to the one he wore to Frostmaw but was white instead of black. He scanned the room in search of familiar faces but one in particular, once he saw Artia he sighed and made his way over to her not so carefully, muttering apologies as he bumped into people. Stopping before her he offered her a bow and an apologetic smile, "Sorry Tia, I had to do a fair bit of travelling to get this suit. I had planned to grab it earlier but with that necklace business and all I forgot till last night."

Alex is about to make a snide comment in regards to Aira's promise but is distracted by the loud appearance of another monster creeping up on stage. The bard mutters beneath his breath "That is one ugly son of a..." but is cut off by Aira's offer of getting another drink, his eyes turning to Khitti while he talks over his shoulder to the high elf "Uh, yeah, sure. I'll be there in just a second." He then moves away from her and walks over to the wall near Khitti whispering to her but acting as if he's examining something rather closely.

Alex whispered something to Khitti.

Pilar smiled at Artia as she left to do her thing, though it turned to a frown when Xzavior showed up. She shook her head at herself. Calm down, girl, you knew he was a part of the deal. Besides, he was a nice guy. Artia could certainly do worse. Oh, look, Aira was coming, what a timely distraction! "Hello, Aira, how are you?"

Amber had just been slithering over toward the stage when she heard alex's comment. Turning him she notices moving over to an elf so she just clenches her jaw and slithers over to the main door, she just needed a moment with a smaller gathering.

Ayras sighed and shook his head at Robert's antics. "If it will make you sit down and stop acting like a kid, sure, I'm scared. Just how much have you had to drink today, anyways?"

Aira followed Alex’s gaze over to the person he was heading for and froze when she realized it was Khitti. Swallowing hard, she quickly spun on her heel and moved towards the bar area. One shot of whiskey down. Then another, before grabbing a third and a glass of white wine for the bard should he want another. She was about to move over to a bench to sit when she found herself accosted by her friend. She smiled softly down at the vampire. “Good evening, Pilar. You look lovely.”

Khitti 's attention snaps away from the exit. If someone were to ask what Khitti's anxiety level was, the correct answer would be over 9000. What? 9000? Yes. Shut up. Don't ask questions. Wide, dark eyes focus on Alex, her whispered words frantic. Was she shaking? You damn right she was. Why did Kreekitaka have to be so very much in the spotlight? WHY KREE?! WHY?! Damn you, Mr. Krabs. The vampiress took in a very deep and unneeded breath, then holds it, trying so very hard to calm down. Vampires really aren't supposed to act like this.

Kreekitaka looked around the room. Well. That had gotten a somewhat underwhelming response. At least Artia was cheering him on. As for the rest of them... well. In order for this party to actually get rolling, he needed everyone's attention. "I cannoTAH! -heeeeeaaar- you!" he called, louder, in a voice that might make someone want to say "aye aye, captain!" but enough about that. "Are you feeying gooDAH! HHHTHis evening!?" He raised his claws and flared that marvelous hypno-cape, attempting once more to get -some- sort of reaction out of the general populace.

Khitti whispered something to Alex.

Robert smiled as Ayras openly admitted that he, whom Robert called 'The Large Vampire Man', was shaking in terror of Robert's amazing, unrivaled dance moves. "Aha! I knew you were scared...How much I had to drink?" The knight stood up straight, and put his sleeves back down, "Uh, two glasses of wine? I'm sober I swear!" the knight spoke, his words slightly slurred. Though the knight felt as if he won, he still was disapointed he never got the chance to dance with The Giant Vampire Man.

Alex breaks his act of pretending to be very interested in the wall and locks eyes with Khitti, his hand reaching out to touch her arm as he squeezes it gently whispering harshly back at her.

Alex whispered something to Khitti.

Pilar smiled at Aira. "So do... you." Oh yeah, she looked REAL lovely. The girls were practically popping out of her dress, and her ass looked AMAZING. What, Pilar was free to stare. She and Artia had an understanding. Hell, Artia would probably have joined in on the staring. But, wait, no, this was inappropriate. Moving on! "Are you having a good time?"

Artia glanced at Xzavior, lofting a blonde brow at him, "I had one on the bed for you. You look nice though." He had promised to be here from the beginning and he wasn't. He would have to make it up to her. With that she walked towards the stage where Kreekitaka stood, so she was close to him for when he called her up. "I hear you!"

Kaiah was not late, no she was not. In fact, she was behind the scenes making sure catering was doing their best to serve around the hall. Suddenly, she busts out of a backroom and stumbles a little forward as she gets a heel caught in her forest green gown. The gown has a halter-top with sheer straps that wraps around her neck leaving her back open. The rest of the gown is simple and it hugs at the waist and drapes down. “You, can you please stop eating those finger fruits?” She snaps at the young catering man that is secretly grabbing the food and he quickly fixes his posture like nothing was wrong. The woman sighs. “Just… be patient,” and the woman continues to move about the room.

Pilar whooed for Kreekitaka before turning her attention back to Aira.

Alex turns to face Kreekitaka and frantically claps for that freak of nature shouting out "Hell yeah! WOO!" before turning back to Khitti with a stern stare.

Khitti just shakes her head at Alex, "No. Just...no. I can't." Her words are a bit louder for him and likely Larewen to hear. Artia's approach of the stage is noted, but not copied. Oh lawd. Khitti's hyperventilating now. Can that even properly happen to a vampire? Whatever. It doesn't matter. It is. Someone get her a paper bag. Something. Anything? Larewen is looked to for answers, but she wouldn't be able to see the panicked look on the dark ranger's face. She makes a soft whining sound, brows furrowing as she looks back at Alex, shaking her head again, but saying nothing.

Xzavior sighed as she walked away, after giving a silent curse to the necklace and everyone involved in the making of it he followed after her chuckling at the crab mans antics, "Looking great up there!"

Aira smirked at Pilar’s compliment, not obtuse with the fact that the vampire’s dark eyes were not on her face. A small flush pulled on the high elf’s cheek as she shrugged her shoulders, the platinum piano charm pressed into her palm by her glass of whiskey. “Yeah, I am having a good time actually.” Her copper eyes flick towards the crab man once more but she doesn’t cheer or call out. Turning back to Pilar she smirked, “I can assume you are with all the kisses and dances you’ve had tonight.”

Alex doesn't allow Larewen time to react to Khitti instead licking the palm of his hand and promptly lightly slapping her across the cheek before moving behind her and shoving her towards the stage with a furious whisper.

Alex whispered something to Khitti.

Larewen was unaware of the panicked look she received from Khitti, though she was aware of the sound of flesh upon flesh as someone was slapped. Perplexed, the blind elf stared in the direction of Khitti and Alex, unsure as to who was on the receiving end of the slap. Probably for the best.

Robert moved, for some reason, and felt something in his shirt pocket...It was a carnation. He suddenly looked around the room anxiously, and dashed out the door.

Khitti just blinks at Alex as she's slapped. Did he...seriously...just do that? No. He didn't. Well, almost as if he were a Pikachu and used thunderbolt on her, she's properly stunned and paralyzed from it, the fear of being on stage mixed with the shock of the slap wiping whatever terrorfied emotions she had right off of her face. Spike heels drag across the ground as she's shoved towards stage. Somehow she manages to make it there. Somehow. She stands on the otherside of Kree, opposite of Artia, and just stares blankly at the crowd. If she had had any sort of color in her face to begin with, it'd be gone. All gone.

Kreekitaka nodded. Well, that was better, at least. Now that he'd gotten some attention, and gotten people at least marginally interested in what he had to say, he was prepared to continue on with the show. "Now I know you came here jus' yooking for some DAH!ancing an' fooDAH!--how abouTAH! our caTAH!erer an' musicians, yes?" He snapped his claws rapidly in an imitation of applause, looking back toward the musicians and towards wherever Kaiah had gotten off to. "BuTAH! I have a major chreaTAH! for ao of you here. A granDAH! DAH!ispyay of ao HHHTHings possibo wiHHHTH my DAH!esigns, a fesTAH!ivo of fashion! Prepare your eyes, YarkeTAH!, for a feasTAH! HHHTHe yikes of which HHHTHey may never again enjoy!" He made a swift military gesture and the band started playing a little louder. And unfortunately for Khitti... well, sorry girl, but you're up. Kree looked directly at her and nodded, gesturing with a whiptail.

Pilar managed to tear her eyes away from Aira's cleavage, aka The Grand Canyon, and looked up at her face. She giggled like an idiot. "Y-yes, I am..." the smile faltered slightly, though. Xzavior had reminded her of the truth of her situation. But, she had agreed to give it a try, and so far Artia had made her night magical. Even if Artia spent the rest of the time tonight with Xzavior, she could still call it a success. The smile came back full force. Yes, she was having a good time. She looked to the stage. Oh, poor Khitti, she looked terrified. She looked back at Aira. "Excuse me..." She made her way closer to the stage and waved to Khitti. If the vampire turned her way, Pilar would mouth "You can do it!"

Alex seems satisfied with his persuasion on Khitti and gives her a final smile before making his way across the room to Aira and Pilar where he would turn to Kre and shout out encouragement, "Woo! Fashion and stuff! Yeah! Fancy!" with his voice loud enough to cover the entire room before turning to Aira and speaking in a hushed tone and elvish tongue, "I only understand half of what that thing is saying... very, er, chatty even for me." he then smiles to Pilar in acknowledgement and prepares to introduce himself but she's already escaping and he's left picking up the glass Aira had gotten for him and begins chugging at it.

Larewen furrowed her brow, and given that there was nothing for the elf to gain from a fashion show, and as it were the only company she had at present was now gone, the necromancer found that she no longer had a reason to be present amongst the crowd. With nary a word of farewell, she began to make her way toward the exit.

Alex excuses himself from Aira's company long enough to sprint to the door and grab Larewen's hand pulling her back to the side with Aira and him, speaking quietly to her "Alex. Bard of Frostmaw and officially your company. Hi."

Aira was about to remind Pilar that her eyes were not on her cleavage but rather her face when she excused herself and hurried towards the stage. As Alex returned she quirked a pale eyebrow at him (she didn’t miss that slap of his) but said nothing as he took the glass of wine and began to chug it. Oh good, she wasn’t alone in this. She lifted her whiskey glass to her full lips and tipped her head back as she took another shot, finding herself slightly woozy. How many shot has she taken now? “I can’t understand half of what he says either,” the huntress confessed in her native tongue.

Khitti having come to the ball dressed in the casual gown bestowed upon her by the fashion designer, she wasn't quite in the right outfit. The gesturing from the crabman manages to snap her out of it thankfully. Thanks, Mr. Krabs. Completely straight-faced as a model should be, everyone is glanced over for a second. They're waiting Khitti. Come on. And then, that butterfly of hers makes an appearance. The oddly distorted creature swirls about her, shadows following it. With a touch of dark magic from the shadowy creature, tangles of black and purple vines reach up from the ground, surrounding the dark ranger, engulfing her completely. During this time, she's of course changing frantically. It's tough being a model, you know. Whispered words are given to Amarrah and the vines suddenly disapate, leaving nothing but smoke and sparkles. In it's wake, Khitti is dressed in a luxurious floor-length, backless ballgown. The entirety of the dress, from sleeves to skirt is covered in swirls, and depending upon the light they shimmer between green and purple. In typical model fashion, she takes her walk along the runway, the spotlight following her every movement. She actually even manages not to fall. Lucky girl. Once she reaches the end of the stage, just in front of the crowd, she spins, allowing the many layers of the skirt to be appreciated as well as the shimmery colors of the fabric. This now done, she ever so carefully heads back to Kreekitaka, taking her place beside him once more.

Kaiah is bossing a girl somewhere over in another corner. Something about how ‘this won’t do’ and ‘take it back to Kyla, have her fix it’. As Kree mentions catering, she jolts and shifts her olive gaze towards him as he clicks his claws. Claws. Crab. She remembers. Claps all around, she hesitantly joins in to fit in with the crowd with one of those forced smiles, but no one is looking around anymore. Thank the Gods. The woman then decides that she needs a drink and has a glass of whiskey poured for her before sitting down at a random table, back to the other people who are sitting there, to take a mini break.

Shishi enters the venue led by his twin children. The two twelve year olds seem much happier to be here than their father who is already glancing behind him at the exit the moment he has one foot inside. The so called Blue Demon is typically underdressed for an event like this, white shirt half tucked into his trousers and black tie hanging loosely at his neck. The boy, Arius, a bit more formal although it looks as if he's grown out of his vest and pants about a year ago, the latter only up to his ankles. The young girl leading these two in is clearly the most prepared in a new dark blue gown, blonde hair hanging over one shoulder and a small spider monkey perched on the other sniffing wildly at the air.

Alex whispered something to Aira.

Larewen felt the sustained spell waver as she made her exit, and just before she could disappear entirely from the crowd, the nearly tangible aura of magic around her vanished from the air. Her steps became less sure, and she inhaled, as if the scents of those around her would help guide her to the door. Only this time, there were three painfully familiar smells mingling with those present. The elf's stomach dropped, much to her chagrin and her desire to vacate the premises led to a bit of recklessness. Namely, the verdant-clad necromancer walking straight into her ex-husband, if he were not to move out of the way.

Amber slithers outside the room.

Kreekitaka tilted his head lightly as she changed--ah! There, okay, that made sense. He nodded and began commenting on the outfit. "Here we have KhiTAH!ee, jresseDAH! in a yong baogown mayDAH! from my proprieTAH!ary coyor-changing fabric. See how iTAH! is boHHHTH green an' purpo aTAH! once? An' see HHHTHe swooshes, how HHHTHey shine an' gyow? Aoso unique. You cannoTAH! fin' cyoHHHTHes yike HHHTHis anywhere ess, peepo! No one has garmenTAH!s as fine as I can make! Give KhiTAH!ee a cheer for how marveyous she is!" He snapped his claws again in applause, then, as she passed by to leave the stage, he whispered something to her while nodding and gesturing for Artia to come on up.

Aira whispered something to Alex.

Amber whispered something to Xzavior.

Alex claps for Khitti even though he had no idea what Kreekitaka was saying. Hell, she looked great and he guessed that was all that matters.

Alex raises a brow to Aira and then looks from her to Kreekitaka and then back to her.

Kreekitaka whispered something to Khitti.

Alex whispered something to Aira.

Pilar clapped and cheered for Khitti, so proud of her for conquering her stage fright.

Artia appeared from the left side of the stage, a smile upon lusciously plump ruby lips and it would be forced to remain. The sleeveless dress has a form-fitting top with one shoulder which has a bit of a lacy frill that extends out just a little way. The other side is shoulderless. The skirt part is long and billowy and comes down to almost the floor, wide and loose at the bottom. The whole thing is lighter than something of its size ought to be. Primarily a dark red, but it has narrow white stripes running in spirals down the length of the top, becoming straight vertical bands down along the bottom of the dress. Stitched in flowering, flowing designs in threads of golden light are vine-like patterns that seem to grow organically all over the dress. Each leaf is an intricately-crafted trilobite. On her feet were matching red leather heels, marking the witch a five foot eleven this night. Sashaying her hips side to side, the witch stopped every fifteen feet Artia stopped, placing a hand to her hips. Looking out to the crowd, oh goddess...need whiskey. Once she got to the middle, Artia slowly spun showing off exactly how well the dress was made and fit. Looking to the crowd she spotted Pilar and winked to her. To Xzavior, he just got a look. Turning she walked off the stage, but before she did Artia curstied to Kreekitaka. One step at a time she moved back to the ground and moved up to Pilar. Phew, "I need a drink."

Aira hiked the hem of her dress up a bit (down boys...and Pilar) and pointed to a pink scar that ran across her upper thigh.

Aira whispered something to Alex.

Alex continues to jolt his gaze between Aira and the freak host up on stage a look of complete bewilderment on his face as he eyes the scar on her leg.

Alex whispered something to Aira.

Alex shoots Aira a stare before finishing.

Alex whispered something to Aira.

Amber clapped watching them but didn't seem to take to much notice.

Ayras had gone to the drink station once again after Robert and blown up his ego and Artia had gone to the stage. Somewhere along the line, he had drained his glass of its green contents, and so he naturally needed another drink. He picked a simple rum for himself, this time, though he also picked up a second glass, this one of whiskey, before he turned away from the refreshments. Once Artia was off the stage after her modeling of the dress she wore, he meandered over and held out the liquor to her as he sipped at his own. Sometimes having elven hearing had its perks. So did good timing.

Pilar clapped and cheered for Artia, too, and hugged her when she approached. "Are you done already?"

Shishi is bitten by his hesitation. While his children saw the woman making for the exit and move aside, Blue steps directly into the fleeing Larewen. The vampire barely moves when knocked into and without a second to realise who is trying to walk through him, grabs hold of Green's arm to hold her up after the collision. "Gr-... Lar." is all he can muster in surprise while Orange and Yellow look on a bit stunned at the family's 'luck'.

Alex looks past the host just in time to see Artia making her exit, the human clapping to follow suit of his surrounding patrons even though he had pretty much no idea of what was going on anymore.

Aira shifted her copper eyes from Alex to the stage before clearing her throat slightly. Nodding to the bard she turned towards the bar once again. The red haired vampire had some lovely green concoction earlier that she wanted to try. Holding onto the table for support she found her desired beverage and lifted the glass, sighing contently at the smell of rum and fruits from her home.

Xzavior clapped as Khitti went up on stage. When Artia went up he offered her a smile, shrinking with the look he was given he again cursed the damned necklace, but remained silent as Arita moved passed him and to Pilar. Accepting his punishment he knew he deserved, he sat at a table nearby drink in hand and crossed his shapeshifted legs.

Larewen would certainly turn red with embarassment, and perhaps a bit of anger, were she among the living or had she recently fed. A perk of being as old as she was, perhaps. As her balance teetered on the edge of being lost, she felt Shishi's hand curl around her arm, steadying her. The elf looked much better than she had the last time she'd crossed paths with Shishi. Her skin was once more flawless, free of the corruption that had saturated her veins and for the most part, her temperament appeared to have returned to what it once was. At least, she wasn't trying to skewer the male that she'd walked into. Her head lifted, brown eyes seeking his and falling way off the mark - the necromancer was looking past his right ear. "Shi," she returned in like, and there was a tremor in her voice. Clearly she was just as startled as he was, and just as perplexed as the twins. Her mouth opened for more words, but they were lost upon her tongue as a frustrated noise that bordered on a whine left her throat. Were Pilar or Khitti to look their way, they'd see their elder in a sort of distress that they'd only seen once before: when Emrith and Laezila were inciting riot in Trist'oth.

Kreekitaka said, "An' here we have ArTAH!ia, our gracious hosTAH! HHHTHis evening! She seTAH! aomos' everyHHHTHing up here, isn' she granDAH!.? Yook aTAH! HHHTHe fine embroiDAH!ery on HHHTHis piece! ITAH! is mayDAH! wiHHHTH yove, an' chreaTAH!menTAH!s HHHTHaTAH! come from HHHTHe ocean and HHHTHe ocean ayone! See how iTAH! rippohs an' fyows as she moves as if iTAH! bareyee weighs anyHHHTHing? I useDAH! HHHTHe same TAH!echniques for HHHTHe chanDAH!eyier above you." He gestured up to the disco ball and spinning strips of weightless cloth. "YeTAH!s cheer on ArTAH!ia again!"

Kreekitaka whispered something to Artia.

Alex leaves Aira to tend to her drink while eyeing the table of drinks himself pondering if he should take another or not. Screw it, he actually grabs a random drinks and takes a chug which promptly draws out a gag from the bard as he tosses it back down onto the table accidently spilling it.

Artia nods to Pilar, "I think so." Following the hand that held the whiskey expecting it to be Xzavior. Shocked to see Ayras, she took it from him. "Thank you, Ayras that was sweet of you." Placing the drink to her lips as she turned to look up to kreekitaka. "Wait no..I have to run home. I'll be right back!" Finishing her drink she grabbed Xzavior's hand and had him leave with her so they could get back faster.

Pilar wondered what the hell Artia needed to do at home that required the naga. Were they going to... nah, of course not. Pilar went to find Khitti and give her a hug.

Kaiah knocks back the glass of whiskey before standing up again (getting crunk tonight – not). Her mind is on autopilot and she is clapping every time a model flashes Kree’s stylish outfits.

Aira quickly covered her mouth as she began to giggle at Alex’s gag as he tried his hand at different drinks. But then he threw one back on the table, spilling it, and the runoff found itself right on Aira’s dress. Jumping back in surprise, the huntress misjudged the height of her heels and stumbled, quickly grabbing ahold of the bard to steady her before she fell on her rump.

Amber slithers over to Pilar finding her again when she was not busy. She says: "well it has been fun, I wish I could stay longer but, there's no one here to give me the time, and well big loud crowds were never my thing."

Pilar said to Amber, "I understand. I will see you later!"

Shishi is at a complete loss and looks the part. He sends a glance towards his daughter and finds no assistance there. Another tilt of his gaze follows Larewen's off to his right and another wave of confusion washes over him followed quickly by a pained look at the sound she let's out. Almost reflexively, definitely protectively because of that sound, he pulls her closer and throws his arms all the way around her, saying nothing.

Khitti , after her turn, goes to where she had been directed by Kreekitaka. The closet is sought out and another dress found. Oh yes. This was glorious. It was perfect. It spoke to her very soul. Her hair is attended to and released from it's braid. That ocean of red hair was released like a kraken, the tips ending in small ringlets. The dress is put on, but she lingers back in the darkness until it's her turn again. Larewen's odd behavior is noted, but she can't address it properly right now. As Pilar goes to hug her, she's incredibly stern and a very much not nice. Not like she was the last time they spoke. "Excuse me. I'm busy.", is all that's said as she continues to tend to her hair.

Alex grabs hold of Aira's arm and hoists her back up with a smile, "Alright. I~ think you've had enough. Oh, and uh... sorry about that."

Pilar was confused and hurt by Khitti's words. Was she really that upset with her over getting back with Artia? Or was it the stress from modeling? She stammered out an apology and backed away, heading back towards the drink table. She takes a shot of... something, she doesn't know.

Amber said to Pilar, "Rough time?"

Pilar said to Amber, "It is nothing..." She knocked back another drink. "Really. You can go, if you are not having fun."

Aira nodded quickly to Alex for grabbing hold of her and helping her stay upright. “Thanks,” she muttered quickly as he waved off her apology. His statement that she had had enough to drink drew an impressive pout from her high elf. She wasn’t drunk, by a long shot, but she was feeling good, perhaps for the first time since she found out about Kahn. But Alex was right, she should stop...at least for a bit. She’d sleep in the woods if she had to.

Amber said to Pilar, "Is there anything I can offer, anything I can do?"

Kreekitaka ||| Rainbow was called to the stage next, suddenly appearing like a sparkle flew out from under Kree's cape and rapidly enlarged itself onto the stage, the pixie suddenly going from three inches to about four feet tall on the stage. She strutted confidently forward, showing off her outfit. This one was likely to have something a different feel than the others since she'd made it herself, and was typically much smaller. Absent was the everpresent trilobite logo, this one was simply a fabric demonstration. Instead of a long ballgown, she was instead clad in a short, puffy skirt and long black stockings that covered her legs. Her gloves were long and black as well, The dress had short sleeves and poofy shoulders and a corset-style top that still covered everything. It glowed brightly, much like the pixie herself, but couldn't decide what color it wanted to be, shifting in waves through the spectrum like a Windows screensaver, not that anyone present knew what that was. The whole thing had a soft blue tint, however the inner color of the dress shifted, and its trim sparkled, throwing beams of light all over the audience. She shifted her hips and struck a proud pose at the end, then marched back to Kree rather nonchalantly and disappeared again, shrinking back into a dot. As she walked, of course Kree needed to comment on it. "An' here is Rainbow, a pixie who mayDAH! her own jress wiHHHTH my fabrics! Yes, HHHTHaTAH!'s righTAH! If you can an' DAH!esire, I have no probyem giving you fabric for your own DAH!esigns, an' aTAH! yess price since I am noTAH! making anyHHHTHing. See how her jress changes coyor compyeTAH!yee, by iTAH!seff? Have you ever seen anyHHHTHing so marveyous? Give Rainbow appyause!"

Kreekitaka gestures to Khitti again. Ah, perfect, he loved that outfit. Clench of the facial crushers to her, she picked good.

Pilar gave Amber a mirthless smile. "You have done enough, Doña Amber. You have been very kind. I just... wish to be alone, for a bit.

Artia came back inside with a different dress on, at request of Kreekitaka. In time to see Pilar hurt expression, she walked over to her quickly. Sending a hand along Pilar's shoulders, "Hey, sorry. Kreekitaka needed me to change." She looked down, "Sorry I had to leave you. I will one more time. I have to go back up on that stage again. Shaking her fist from hitting Xzavior.

Pilar smiled up at Artia and gave her a quick kiss. "It is okay, it is not you..."

Amber nodded but before leaving she did something most naga never do. She coiled around Pilar and wrapped her arms around her, Holding her in a tender warm hug. "I hope happiness finds you again." She then uncoiled and began to slither away.

Larewen tensed as Shishi drew her close, as his arms curled around her. It was a familiar feeling, one that the elf would never tire of, no matter how many centuries may pass between the times their paths crossed. And that was the necromancer's downfall. Her features, over the course of time since losing her eyesight, had become more expressive than she realized and thus she was unaware of the emotional turmoil that surfaced upon her face. Pilar's plight, which normally might have given the elf cause for concern and reason to approach her - or try to, anyway - goes largely unnoticed, another fact that would have bothered her under different circumstances. She remained tense for what seemed like a few long moments, and were she living the elf's heart undoubtedly would have been pounding in her chest. Butterflies already danced in the pit of her stomach. She had, undoubtedly, warmed up quite a bit in the time he'd been away. She was as close to the woman he had once married now than she'd been in a very, very long time. Finally, she relaxed, accepting the embrace with a bittersweet smile. "You're... back," she said, her voice still quivering in lieu of her own shock.

Khitti ,when called upon, steps through the crowd wearing a stark white dress with large crinoline skirt from where her place had been at closet near the front as Kree had told her. The blood red of her hair and the dark emerald of her eyes stood out even more in contrast with the bright white outfit. This strapless number even made her appear to have some amount of color in her pale skin. The front of the corset is covered in a coral pattern that shines with a bright ice blue light in tune to that barely existing heartbeat of the vampiress. If anyone here knew her well enough, as well as Daermon, they'd know why she picked it. It just so happened to be the color of his eyes. Sadly, he wasn't here to see it, but she wore her favorite color proudly. The skirt, narrator. Please don't forget that. Oh. Right! Sorry. The skirt, in all of it's wonderfulness was embroidered with Kree's signature trilobite logo, the pattern tiled all over the main fabric. Just as she had before, she makes her walk down the runway, seemingly a bit more comfortable with the spotlight. There was more confidence. More....whatever the hell it is that models tell themselves to be able to do this.

Artia returned the kiss, "Tell me about it later." Handing her cloak to pilar revealing a green dress as she heads to the stage.

Alex grins as Aira seems to take his advice to heart while reaching over to take a third and hopefully final glass of white wine. "Of course that doesn't mean I have to stop right?" As he takes a sip from the glass her looks over to see the upset Pilar and her companion Artia comforting her, then Kreekitaka calls out for applause in honor of Rainbow which he promptly obliges to by sitting his glass down and clapping before turning back to Aira. "I'm happy I found you here tonight. I didn't think I was going to know anyone. To be honest, I just came for the music and to forget about Hildegarde for a while. Thank you for coming."

Aira narrowed her eyes at Alex as he look another glass of wine, her hand twitching towards the bar again but refraining. The high elf gave a half hearted clap when applause was called for, not particularly paying attention. The bard’s thanks was met with another smile from the huntress as she leaned her head against his shoulder for a moment. “Thank -you-. I honestly don’t know why I came here tonight. Maybe I was hoping to find some sense of happiness here, I don’t know.”

Kreekitaka gestured grandly to Khitti as she took the stage. "Once more, everyone, KhiTAH!ee, wiHHHTH a jress one of you mighTAH! once have been abo TAH!oo buy buTAH! no yonger! Yook aTAH! how -cyean- HHHTHe whiTAH! is, how sofTAH! an' yighTAH! it fyows across her boDAH!ee regarDAH!yess of how poofy iTAH! is. See how HHHTHe yighTAH! in HHHTHe hearTAH! of HHHTHe jress beaTAH!s ayong wiHHHTH her hearTAH!. Is HHHTHis noTAH! one of HHHTHe mos' beauTAH!ifo jresses? Can you see yourseff aTAH! your weDAH!ing yeTAH!, women? Imagine how marveyous I can make your cyoHHHTHes for your ceyebration!" He gestured to Artia. "I have one more for HHHTHis evening! You have been a wonDAH!erfo auDAH!ience!"

Shishi releases Larewen for the most part, his left hand lingering on her arm as he gets his first good look at the vampire. He flinches slightly at her greeting. He had definitely left this time and for quite awhile, a fact he'd love to forget. Words are chosen carefully here after a light sigh, "I'm here." and they are followed by a practiced, forced smile, "It looks like you're on your way to leave though. Poor timing again." At that Orange rolls her eyes and moves towards the food spread particularly the sweets, with her brother.

Alex exhales sharply through his nose in amusement wondering at the odds of the couple meeting up at a place like this when neither of them had any real need or want to be here. He was happy that he was finally able to give her the enchanted charm, after all it was hell dealing with that creep in Xalious but it all seemed worth it now. While she rests on his shoulder he takes another drink of the wine before deciding he's finally reached his limit placing the glass onto the table top, his stomach churning due to his low tolerance though other than that he managed to remain calm in observing the on goings of the party. "Well, I-" he's cut off by the talking crab going off about Khitti again prompting a smile and clap from him, his leg shaking a bit beneath his weight. "Ugh, you know, I've got to walk back to Frostmaw and I don't really know if I should have drank all that." Looking over his rented suit with the purple ribbons he laughs a bit at himself "Annnnd, I've stained this suit quite a bit already as is. Maybe I should find a room at the Red Ogre for the night." He looks to Aira "How do you plan on getting home?"

Artia inhaled deeply, she wasn't sure about this one. It was almost too revealing to her but, Kreekitaka needed them to show different types of dresses. So she put this one on, leaning her head back she inhaled. The dress is another long one, reaching almost to the floor, but it also has form-fitting sleeves that open up on the ends and have wide, lacy wristholes. Unlike her others dresses, which do a good job of staying very modest, this one shows off a bit of her above average cleavage with a v-neck. Stitched in a way to show off her curves. The skirt gets less narrow further down. The dress sparkles in any light with tiny glistening purple gem and the insides of the sleeves are a royal purple. The back of the dress has a large trilobite embroidered on it, covering the whole back, in purple thread. The green color is a pale, almost mint green rather than a more saturated green. The colors making her dark strawberry blonde curls and cyan optics seriously pop. Once again she walked, stopped and posed. Just like the first time she shashayed, but she wanted to put her cloak back on. Kreekitaka better appreciate this one, once she was across the stages. And Kreekitaka was done talking  she moved straight to the drink table.

Pilar's clapping had been less than enthusiastic for Khitti, though she put a bit more effort in for Artia. She took another drink, glancing at Aira. She wanted to be sure the high elf had a way to get home safely.

Laezila needed to feed. It was truly the only reason she could ever risk leaving the city of Frostmaw with the thirty-five thousand gold piece bounty on her head; there was a law against feeding in Frostmaw, and with Hildegarde's... absence (a denial of death by this particular drow) the newborn vampire couldn't risk the ire of the Frost Giants upon her. Petite and diminutive with paling ebony skin and stark, glittering white hair that contrasted her flesh but accented a sleek, form-fitting crimson dress, the bladedancer wasn't particularly sure her own reason for this location. That is, she was simply drawn, and it was made more apparent to the young female such by the sight of the woman that sired her, saved her, and even gifted her with sight once more.

Amber after finishing hugging pilar slipped out of the hall

Aira peered up at Alex once more as he mentioned drinking too much. “All of that? You had three glasses of wine, my dear,” she teased as she thought of all the whiskey she drank that evening, plus half of that green concoction. Copper eyes slide to his rented robes with the purple ribbons. “Should have stuck with the black like me. Brings out your eyes.” Apparently, tipsy Aira was a very nice Aira. Or perhaps, the gift of the piano managed to lower one of the many guards the huntress worked so hard at keeping up at all times, at least with the bard. When talk turned to her getting home she sighed. “Well, I planned on making a valiant effort to get back to Frostmaw only to fail miserably and fall asleep in the woods somewhere.”

Kreekitaka said, "An' here she is! One more TAH!ime, ArTAH!ia! Wearing her yoveyee green jress HHHTHaTAH! sparkohs so royayee! See how iTAH! conforms TAH!oo her boDAH!ee an' DAH!ispyays iTAH! in HHHTHe mos' fyaTAH!ering of ways? I can make cyoHHHTHes for you aoso, TAH!oo bring ouTAH! your inner goDAH!ess an' show everyone how beauTAH!ifo you chruyee are!" He applauded for Artia and once more took center stage. "HHHTHank you, everyone! Have a marveyous resTAH! of HHHTHe nighTAH!. Pyease make sure TAH!oo come by my shop in Cenrii an' be watching for when my new one opens righTAH! here in YarkeTAH!"