RP:Valentine Ball of 2018

From HollowWiki

Summary: The Valentine Ball is held at the Dancing Destrier, in Xalious, and is hosted by Lanara. Many are in attendance for an evening filled with laughs, love, a poetry contest, and a dating game.

As guests arrive and prepare to enter the double doors of the Inn, the first thing they will see are two large ‘kissing’ booths set up before the establishment. The booth to the left has a little girl watching over three adorable kittens, and the booth to the right has a little boy watching over three precious puppies. Should a party-goer desire some cuddles from the cute critters, all they need to do is donate one gold coin, pick the pet of their choice, and they are awarded five minutes with that animal. All proceeds will be donated to an animal rescue group, that the host of this event seems rather passionate about! If someone wishes to adopt one of the kittens or puppies, there are adoption applications that can be filled out and discussed at a later date. The Dancing Destrier has been slightly renovated for tonight’s festivities, as there is now a large stage erected at the right of the room, and a spiral staircase in the far left that leads to the second floor, where rooms can be rented in case anyone gets a little too tipsy. The spacious dance floor, which was previously made of wooden planks, is now a polished, off-white marble, specifically designed for gliding across the floor. Those that wish to dine would find long tables, filled with the finest cuts of meats, scrumptious salads, roasted vegetables, and a plethora of delicious desserts. A chocolate fountain continually flows, and those that wish to dip their fruit, marshmallows, or bites of pound cake, beneath the silken liquid will find small toothpicks to use as makeshift skewers. The dining area is set up with large circular tables, covered in pale pink linen cloths, and the centerpiece is a vase filled with red and black long-stemmed roses. The bar is adjacent to the food tables and chilled glasses house a variety of fine wines, chocolate martini’s, and champagne. The bartender’s stand waiting for any that wish to order a signature cocktail of their choice, should they not find the platters of drinks already made, suitable. Beside the bar, is a heart-shaped pool of pink shimmering water, with a small table, covered in rose petals, set beside it. The plaque on the table reads ‘Wishing Well’ and should one desire to make a wish as a couple, or by themselves, this is the place to do it. A small house-like structure has been built in the far right corner of the room, and the door is covered in silver glitter, with the words ‘Love Shack’ written in bold lettering. Clearly, that glitter-covered hut is to be used if a couple wishes for a moment of privacy in a sound-proof setting. Security is heavy at this occasion, as this is an event representing love not war, and so they wish to keep the peace. The band finishes setting up their equipment of harps, guitars, drums, and a violin, and the bards all take their designated places. A melodic tune soon fills the ears of those gathered, as two red and gold chairs are placed upon the side of the stage, for use later in the evening.

Lanara :: The music comes to an abrupt halt as the hostess of the event steps forth, standing at the balcony of the spiral staircase, with her hand resting daintily upon the rail. The witch is well-known in various parts of the land, be it by her name, her face, or by her legendary derriere, so it’s no surprise when those lush lips curve upwards into a smile as several guests applaud the sight of the brunette. Donning a crimson, floor-length, off-the-shoulder, incredibly snug gown, she is a vision, as always. Her long locks fall in thick waves, cascading to the middle of her back, and she wears enough make-up to accentuate her fine facial features. Even if she weren’t forty feet higher than all the attendee’s, most would do a double take, at the ravishing beauty. Some, perhaps, would wonder how she’s able to breathe, let alone walk in such a skin-tight satin gown. Others would appreciate her flawless physique and the curves that were enhanced by such a dress. Chocolate hues gaze down upon those gathered, and she gives a warm smile to her sister, Talyara, who happens to catch her eye, before addressing everyone, as a whole. “Hello, Ladies and Gentlemen! Welcome to The Valentine’s Ball! For those that don’t know, my name is Lanara, and I’m your designated hostess tonight. The benefactor of this event cancelled only a few hours ago, and since the Inn and catering were already paid for in advance, I decided that the show must go on! I merely had to work out the activities and decorations, so I hope you all enjoy the hard work that was put into this, on such late notice. Please, enjoy the food, the drink, the dancing, the romance, and most importantly, each other! There are various things to do aside from dining and dancing, and please be sure to show those puppies and kittens some love! If you’re here with a date, tonight is the night to profess your love! There isn’t a single day of the year that is more meaningful than Valentine’s Day, so if someone holds the key to your heart, let them know how you feel. And if you’re single, now is the time to mingle, and meet that special someone! There will be two contests tonight, so if you want to get lucky, stick around!” Lana realizes what she just said, about everyone getting ‘lucky’, and her cheeks flood with color. Thankfully, the band picks up on her embarrassment and plays a soft rock song, as she slowly makes her descent down the stairs, the short train of the gown gently flowing behind.

Brennia | Bard’s guild members have been requested here tonight and they set the tone with serene melodies which ease some of the party goers nerves. A request book has been set out by the maestro who periodically meanders over and checks the list so they may continue leading the band in song. Some of them upbeat and with a quick tempo while most songs are slow for those long close dancing songs - tre romantic. A few people within the crowd dance, attempting to get strangers to dance with them, loosen up! Have fun! At a certain point in the night’s performance two of the dancers come together on the floor and put on a compelling dance number, something that moves you.

Scandal had tried as hard as he could to have made sure that his transformation abilities would not be out of whack today. In other way of saying, he had chosen to clean up his appearance, getting a shave to cleanly and thoroughly de-beard his face, and brushing his hair. Going all out he had even rented a suit, he wore a white collar shirt with black dress pants, and a simple yet elegant belt, he had bought because they didn’t rent some fine black dress shoes, and also had purchase and elegant red tie. While it hadn’t been his preference, his robe he had worn was still being fixed since the incident in Frostmaw. Before entering he waited for his date, and whether or not she would show up. If she didn’t then it was single is go, if she did, he had a date, and if she showed up with someone else, well he banished that thought, he’d be himself then.

Brennia is here under the disguise of a merchant with burgundy dreadlocks and lightly freckled skin selling roses, perfumes, and jewelry made out of crystals. “Can’t have stinky breath while trying to smooch your date! You need this, fella!” Come from a loud, smart mouth vendor with a mischievous smirk. Pale hands exchanging a small vial which will make the gentleman’s breath smell of mint and he gave her the silver for it, “and you! Just because you came from the grave, don’t mean you gotta smell like it!” The undead she was speaking with chuckled at her and purchased cologne, “what about your date? I’m sure the lass would love this flower - you know, for when the cologne wears off!” A wink to show she was joking with him and she ends up selling him two! Teal eyes scan the room for her next victim. She was wearing perfume, herself to mask the avian scent, but not too much that it offends the senses and her dreadlocks hid her ears well enough so she seemed like some six foot two simple seeming human.

Meri was here but she was not all dolled up like many of the women here probably were. She was not a single woman and was not here to mingle and yet she also was not here with a date. Because she was here stag and was not looking to start some blossoming new romance, her attire is on the too-casual side for a ‘ball’. In fact, it is the same outfit she wore when she decided to show up to Macon’s birthday party underdressed. She has a pair of black pants on that are in decent shape and lacking paint stains and a blue off the shoulder top. Her boots are a bit worse for the wear, but fitting in was not a top concern. There were probably a couple faces Meri was familiar with. She’ll smile and wave accordingly and appropriately, but she is not quick to engage any person over another. For now she will be a wallflower.

Talyara pushes her way into the Destrier after taking a pit stop at the two booths outside the establishment. A bright smile adorned her face as she spied the kittens and puppies, chuckling to herself about the sweet touch her sister made by erecting them here. She would spend some time with them, but not yet as she didn’t want to ruin her dress. Speaking of attire, the little witch wears a short, royal purple dress that falls halfway down her thigh; the fabric tight and hugging her lithe frame. While she’s most comfortable in her worn leather boots, those have been traded in for a pair of black heels and the witch silently prays that she doesn’t take a tumble in them. Her normally unruly locks have been tamed, swept over her shoulder, the strands cascading down in elegant waves. Her doe-like green eyes take in the decor and ambiance and she smiles at her sister’s ability to throw a party together on such short notice. The ‘Love Shack’ is spotted and Taly shakes her head, chuckling, as she looks around the room for the woman of the hour, Lanara, who appears from above, looking as ravishing as ever.

Zahrani quietly enters the room, her eyes lifting to see many familiar faces. Her clothing consisted of a simple white button-up shirt, black pants, and black boots, but her physical appearance is the most striking. Were it not for the black fur on her pointed ears, the cyan eyes surrounded by dark brown skin, or the tail swishing behind her, the feline would be completely unrecognizable. She looks more like a butch elf lady with fuzzy ears and a tail. Her form is still athletic, sans fur, and instead of a panther head, she bears an androgynous face with deep set eyes, wide nose, and full lips. The top and back of her head is covered in black hair, neatly braided to accommodate tight curls, and the sides are buzz-cut stylishly short to keep her ears uncovered. A warm smile lights up her face as she sees many familiar people, the expression accentuating wrinkles around her eyes and brow ridge. It is a kind, mature visage that she bears this evening, keeping an eye on her friends in light of recent events.

Qindrephyss had paced back and forth around the meadow just south of the Destrier for an hour or so before finally deciding that she would, in fact, show her face at this shindig. She'd never been to a land shindig before. Or any shindig, for that matter. In fact, she had only really made contact with two other beings at all since emerging from the waters outside of Cenril, one who had informed her that there was such a shindig (and who she was now cursing under her breath for putting her in such a situation) and one who she wondered if would arrive due to... size problems. Instead of fleeing back to her cave, she was here, standing alone in the city square and fidgeting terribly. Her index fingers (whose nails were bright and ivory, much like her claws might have been) were picking away at the skin on the insides of either thumb, where vibrant cerulean scales freckled over seemingly soft pale skin. Qindrephyss' lips twitched as she finally took a deep breath and wandered inside, eyes wide and wondering as she examined her surroundings. She was utterly baffled by the size of the room. To note, this was the first indoor establishment that she had wandered into since the aforementioned arrival, outside of the comely little boutique she'd just bought her dress at. Never in her life had she imagined that the land-walkers would build such magnificent things like this. Perhaps she had severely underestimated them. She'd certainly gotten the feeling when she'd spotted the Mage's Tower on the way here- perhaps also she was just too-easily impressed, having stayed in the woods or deep under the sea in her previous days. This room was large enough to fit a whole army, she wagered to herself. Accuracy was not her concern as she made this observation. Instead, the dragoness seemed somehow both disturbed and excited by the sheer amount of people who were either already in the building or slowly starting to file in- and at the subject matter of the gathering. 'So,' she thought to herself, 'This is love festival of some kind. Damnit, Scandal.' A grimace made its way across full lips, accompanied by the silvering of her cheeks that betrayed her unease when it came to being confronted with large crowds of people she didn't know- and with the realization that she was possibly now being put on the spot by the invitation she had accepted rather innocently. She, however, did not turn and flee- it was her mission, she'd decided, that she would learn to be amongst these people and how to interact with them. And that was final!

Daermon had debated going to the ball. For several long minutes in fact. He wasn't looking for anything, but then, he was making an effort to get out and about more often, so he pulled his own three piece suit out of storage and soon was striding into the Destrier with the rest of the crowd. He'd changed his armor and leathers for a sharp, expertly tailored suit of rich black and red trims, three pieces including the vest and a blood red tie. He cleaned up well. His hair was somewhat tamed and back, cigarette put out before stepping into the room and boots traded in for matte black shoes. He let his eyes, those icy hues, lazily stroke along those present, then moved in farther, doing a round of the room. As Lanara appears, he tilts his eyes up to her with everyone else, and then moves towards the refreshments.

Celaeno shuffled into the establishment, her appearance starkly different from her usual dark colors and black robes. It seemed her attire was meant to match her gauntlets for this ball. A pair of modest silver hoops dangle from her ears while a form-fitting, light gray gown with silver brocade laced throughout adorns the rest of her. The long sleeves and high neckline concealed whatever scars and marks she might have to hide, yet the reverse side stood in stark contrast as it opened into a gap that exposed her tawny skin from her shoulders to the small of her back. She holds the hem of her skirt up upon entering, but lets it fall and drag behind her as she mills about for an empty seat. Half of her dark hair had been painstakingly pinned into a bun while the rest of the chocolate waves left to hang over her shoulder to one side. The half-elf had felt quite the temptation to bring a book of some kind with her, studying while everyone else danced the night away. However, a little bird encouraged her to see what happened, and with heart pounding and a fine layer of nervous sweat starting along her neck she came empty-handed. When she did eventually find her empty chair, she settled in it and observed the crowd milling in to spot any familiar faces.

Astrid was just here for the drinks, and the candy, but she had at least dressed for the occasion; her blonde hair was done in a half-up-half-down coiffure, and the dress she wore was slightly reminiscent of Uma's usual attire- the knee-length, flaring skirt was a soft blue, with large daisies embroidered into the fabric, and the top was a black, three-quarter sleeved scoop neck. Sheer black tights offered a meager protection from the chill of the outside air, and the ensemble was made complete with simple black heels. Stag herself, she gravitated and hovered near the refreshment table.

Kanna can barely contain her excitement and it shows. The bardess is surprisingly recovering well after her last tournament, and she comes with a date: the armored avian that has stood in the background of every duel in case he needed to intervene. The cerulean gown she wears completely covers the bandages on her back, and the telltale red scarf is tied into a bow around her neck. A faux white rose is pinned to the knot of the bow, along with another pin to a matching red ribbon in her hair. Pale sapphire eyes examine the room in awe. She has to hold onto Yoshika's arm, but she seems to be the one driving half the time, as she gasps out, "Look, you can kiss a kitten! Oh my goodness, I have to do that!" And nearly drags him over with her.

Scandal took notice of the woman wearing the dress. But he took more notice of the one behind her with the vibrant cerulean scales. Surprised she had show up; he wasted no time in entering to get in with her. "Evening, you look lovely." He said to Qindrephyss.

Oline was never particularly comfortable surrounded by small-folk, and her prolonged absence from the lands had reduced her once more to a relative outsider. Moreover, at least according to what she'd managed to pick up from listening in on the conversations of others, the central theme of the occasion was something to do with romance. Given the giantess' history with the subject, she'd very nearly opted to spend the evening hunting instead... but then... how often was she going to ever get an opportunity to put on the dress Pilar's tailor friend had made for her? Oline ducked her way into the Destrier wearing a knee-length silver gown with bright red trim along the hem. Any who'd come to know her would understand why she kept tugging and shifting uncomfortably, mostly ignoring the goings on around her in favor of making sure she'd actually gotten her head through the neck hole and not one for the arms.

Zahrani offers a smile and wave to Celaeno, whom she had helped locate the lovely dress the half-elf wore, before gravitating curiously over to the refreshments table as well. Her tail swishes behind her, her hands in the pockets on her black trousers. Her lips purse slightly, her eyes scanning the food and drink for anything suspicious. The paladin isn't a fan of extravagance or frippery; the only jewelry she wears is an amulet of Cyris resting carefully over a black necktie. She overhears Kanna's voice, a grin forming on her face at what the songstress was saying. Cyan eyes turn to Astrid and Daermon, a couple of unfamiliar faces. A polite nod would be offered to them should their eyes meet.

Lanara makes her way to her sister and immediately pulls her in for a gentle hug, leaning back to gaze upon the purple dress, before meeting Taly’s green gaze. “You are a vision, sister! I’m so happy that you made it. I had –no- idea that I would be hosting! And I thought you wanted the pink dress?! But this color looks lovely on you!” Giving her sibling’s arm a loving squeeze, she catches the gaze of Celaeno as the woman walks past. The half-elf cleaned up nice, and Lana can’t help but offer her the warmest of smiles, delighted that she had come to the Valentine Ball. She raises her hand to wave to Zahrani and Daermon, though her attention keeps drifting towards the south of the room, where the puppies and kittens temporarily reside. Typical of Lanara! She was the hostess, and all she wanted to do was play with the animals! Wrenching her gaze from them, she stops a waiter and plucks a chocolate-covered strawberry from the platter. “Mmm…” She murmurs, taking a much needed bite, since she had starved herself for weeks to slip into this snug of a gown.

Astrid was in the process of shoving a bit of chocolate into her mouth when she caught the nod Zahrani offered her. She wiggles her fingers awkwardly, while trying to juggle pieces of candy.

Talyara || After applauding her sister’s little speech with a grin and a teasing wolf whistle, she moves over to the table where the refreshments are and eagerly picks up a a flute of champagne, bringing the glass to her lips. However, she is soon swept up by her sister, thankfully managing not to spill her drink as she shakes her head. “Please, Lana, everyone here pales in comparison to you in that dress. I saw everyone doing a double take!” When the older sister mentions a pink dress Taly rolls her eyes. “No, -you- wanted the pink dress!” She says with a chuckle, placing a chaste kiss on Lanara’s cheek before she goes off to mingle.

Encara is not exactly dressed for the occasion... the most obvious thing she's done is put her hair up. The androgynous drow's long silver locks, normally left loose and wild have been pulled back into a messy, plaited bun while still leaving plenty of stray stands free to frame the sharp angles of her face. She's a handsome sort of beauty, really, having exchanged her armor tonight for simpler attire - her short leather jacket is accented with additional golden pins and the shirt beneath it is silken burgundy finery compared to the rough wool she often wears. Black pants cover her long legs, tucked into slightly scuffed knee-high boots. Naturally, the ranger disarmed at the door when she arrived to avoid inciting the wrath of the establishment's security and guests, though she'd hissed a few pointed threats to the bouncers that should any of her weapons go missing, she'd carve somebody's eyes out with a rusty spoon. After skulking over by the refreshments for a few minutes, weighing the risks of attempting to eat any of the sweet cakes, Encara casts a furtive glance around the bustling inn before plucking up a tiny nibble and stuffing it into her mouth. Well, it's not poisoned at least.

Qindrephyss noted with a hum the pleasant scents, the beautiful gowns, the handsome cloaks, and the pretty decorations. Her eyes would settle here and there on strands of pearls on necks, and it would take all of her efforts to drag that gaze away. Eventually, her gaze settled on the adoptions booth, and her eyes lit up immeasurably. She would have to be sure to try to cuddle one of those... fluff things! As she continued to search the room, she shifted, slightly uncomfortable in her new gown. She had picked it up just for this occasion- that's what land folks did, right? Dress up real nice and all? In any case, she wasn't sure she liked it- it wasn't nearly as flowing and free as her usual garb- and she'd forgotten to buy shoes, to boot. Not that it mattered. In her opinion, she had very strong toes, and if anyone was going to step on anyone's feet, it'd be her! The gown was form-fitting at the top, which was made of black lace with long sleeves. This top descended into a floor-length skirt whose opening grew wider the closer to her feet it stretched. The skirt was crafted of layers of long and smooth black gryphon's feathers carefully stitched into satin. Thin, delicate hands moved to smooth out these feathers as she continued to eyeball those who were arriving. She thought to herself that if she'd been the type of dragon that had wings at all, she'd rather like wings made of feathers like these... not that she'd ever seen anything like that herself. Over her shoulders was draped a lovely black fur shawl of a variety she could not identify on her own. It had been on the mannequin with the dress when she'd picked it out, and so she had assumed that they MUST go together. As she nestled herself safely out of the way of the flow of incoming traffic, she continued to wonder a while about wings, and what she might look like with them. Her conclusion: Terribly Silly. And so was this shindig. She startled slightly as Scandal greeted her. "Oh! Oh, thank you. Yes. You look very nice as well. So does everyone."

Zahrani turns away from the refreshments table, the dapper feline making her way towards Lanara and Talyara. She hopes her difference in appearance doesn't come as too much of a surprise. The warm smile returns to her face upon arrival. To Talyara, she says, "The animals are adorable." Turning to Lanara, the feline asks, "How is your hand doing?"

Oline skulked off to the nearest corner and knelt down, careful not to bunch up her dress or let it hike up and show off more flesh than it seemed Xalious was comfortable with. Wide silvery eyes scanned the selection of food and drink, but the prospect of venturing out into the fray to get anything was... too much...

Scandal offered a smile. "So I hear they have chocolate here, ever had some?" He asked, offering his hand to lead her around the establishment, and towards some people. And maybe past the kittens. He thought to himself unsure if his thoughts leaked to her, *Maybe I should buy her something, I am not even 13% sure how this works*

Brennia notices a small group of women dripping in jewels, “ey! Everyone knows gems are out! Get with the trends, crystals are on the rise!” She got their attention, “it is said this one helps with stress, this one balances out aging and this one helps with those lady troubles.” A couple of them blush at the mention of that from the brash woman, but they buy into it nonetheless. This disguise of Brennia’s is meant to blend in, but as a simple merchant selling wares at an event like this she was in soft leather leggings, a dark green blouse, and a soft leather jacket over that - all of which cover up most of her natural skin tone. “Hey you,” she says to a certain vampire - heavy lidded teal eyes resting on his face, “you’re lookin’ a little pale…” holding up a tonic bottle, “a little bit of this will make you look a little more…. Lively.” Although she had quite the smart mouth, there was something friendly about her and somewhat charming. No one would know it’s all an act.

Meri definitely sees a few faces that are familiar to her. Oline. Lanara. Celaeno. They have all gotten tattoos from Meri at some point or another, and they are all greeted with a smile and a wave. Secretly Meri is thinking Astrid probably has the right idea. Drinks and candy. Those are some top notch reasons to come to a party. However the Psion has recently come to the conclusion that alcohol free is the way to be, she’ll just have to settle for the sweets. Conveniently someone with a tray of chocolate-covered strawberries walks by and Meri is able to nab a couple few to nibble on. Never mind if she does not look to be the most lady-like, a couple other gals seemed to have the same spirit as she did and thus she did not feel like she was sticking out like a sore thumb.

Encara might've just shoved another nibble into her shirt.

Daermon sweeps up behind Talyara, catching her after she moved away from Lanara. He whistled, doing a close circuit and offering her a smile as he stopped before her. "That's a very lovely color on you. I think you'll find that I kept up my brooding ways and stuck to dark colors." he teases her gently, recalling a previous conversation of theirs. "I was curious once I heard that Lana was hosting, if you would make It." he admits.

Kanna gets her fill of smooching protesting fluffs of mewls when she sees a familiar face. "Winter Berry!" She practically squeals from across the room, shuffling over as to not upset her stitches. When she gets to Oline, she gushes over the silver dress she wears. "You even look like a Winter Berry, oh my goodness you look so beautiful! Do you have a date or do you have anyone in mind to get a smooch from for tonight?

Qindrephyss’s teal eyes were still flicking about the room nervously as Scandal mentioned chocolates. "I don't even know what that is," she said in a tone so soft he might not even hear it. She laid eyes, however, on Oline, who she decided looked incredible in her gown, and who seemed to be having a hell of a time. She hadn't noticed the hand that he'd offered her, instead making a beeline for the giantess. Qindrephyss seemed to assume that Scandal would follow- the same way that she'd assumed as much in their past interactions. She was a flighty thing that was for sure. In any case, as she approached Oline, she raised a hand up, eager to see if she could grab her attention this way. "Hello, Oline!! What a strange party this is, isn't it? Please, meet my friend Scandal!" She motioned to her side. If Scandal was there- fantastic! If not- perhaps she'd make herself look like a real idiot here for a moment. Qindrephyss turned her gaze back up to Oline. "Did you come with anyone?"

Astrid was suddenly at Meri's side when the waiter stopped with the platter of chocolate dipped strawberries, and she quickly snagged two. As the waiter moved away, she turned to the artist and grinned. "You here by yourself too?" If she could, she'd have a bottle of champagne in one hand, and a tray of fruit in the other, but alas, that wasn't socially acceptable. So she had a plate of fruit, and a flute of bubbly alcohol.

Talyara grins to Zahrani and nods her head enthusiastically. “Indeed they are! I can’t wait to get some snuggles later. Nice shirt, by the way,” she compliments with a small wink before she feels eyes upon her and turns to see Daermon standing there. She blushes at his whistle, and rolls her eyes. “This is true, but at least you used a hint of red,” she says noting the tie. “And of course I came. I support my sister in at least forty percent of her endeavors,” she says with a laugh.

Lanara swallows the last of her strawberry, and aims to peruse the food tables; however, she’s stopped on the way, by the feline. Offering Zahrani a warm smile, she pats the feline on her upper arm, delighted that she had attended. “Thank you for coming! I didn’t even know that I was hosting until this morning… But I think it’s all working out, rather well. My hand is much better, thanks to you.” She lifts the hand, to show her that the bruising was minimal, though she still couldn’t put a ring on her finger. “You look lovely! And I didn’t know that you knew my sister!” Taly had followed behind, and as Lana turns her head, she catches sight of Daermon, speaking to her sibling. Interesting. A knowing smirk is given to her little sister, before Lana apologizes and excuses herself from those nearest her, as she heads for the stairs. On her way, she snatches another strawberry off a platter, and winks at Meri.

Celaeno seemed returned both Zahrani greeting is met with and attempted smile and wiggle of her fingers, the joints freshly oiled so they wouldn't make horrible scraping noises. Lanara was observed keenly, much like a science experiment as she maneuvers about her element. Meri was caught from her corner of her eye and her eyes widen with genuine surprise as she smiles right back. Good! She had found her way back. She hadn't quite found the nerve to move from her chair nestled near the corner, where Oline happened to be skulking. She quirks her head to one side, offering a genuine, albeit obviously uneasy grin toward the giant. "Hello Miss Oline. Do you not enjoy crowds so much as well?"

Scandal when he could not grasp the hand he looked toward her, only she wasn't there. He sighed, and turned toward the kittens. As he neared the jar, he placed not a gold coin, but a peach sized gem of purple color into it, "what’s the point of dragon having a hoard if he can't give it to a good cause." He told himself, maybe a little louder than he should have. But not yelling, or shouting. He stroked one of the kittens, before. Moving toward the place of the disguised woman was at. "What would be the best product(s) for me, based on a mere look?"

Daermon returned the smile to Talyara. "More than a hint." he informs, popping open the two buttons on his suit jacket and revealing the inner lining was the same color as the tie. "And I know you do. At least forty percent." he teases in return, snagging a glass of champagne from a waiter. He holds it out to her, offering to clink glasses with the petite witch. "To forty percent." he declares with laugh, taking a drink as his eyes drifted over those present. "A good turn out." he admits.

Meri admittedly is a little relieved when someone vaguely familiar comes to stand next to her. This relief translates to the smile that Meri sends Astrid’s way. “Yup. Here all by myself. Looks like you have the same idea that I do. Lots of free treats to munch on, hm?” If only Meri knew of Astrid’s intentions, Meri would happily guard the tray of fruit so that Astrid could have a whole bottle of bubbly. Sometimes these team efforts are a must. But Meri is not going to snag the tray of fruit from Astrid, that is just rude. “I saw you at that meeting the other day.” The one in Cenril. “The name is Meri. Nice to have a chance to actually meet you.”

Brennia sent the vampire she was conversing off with a pigment changing tonic - nothing like the ones she wears herself. Then Scandal approaches and a shrug, “quite unique, this one.” She offers up a small breath potion and cologne, “you’ll be beatin’ em away with a stick!” A wink to him.

Zahrani smiles sheepishly at Talyara, the feline blushing slightly at her comment, "Thanks. A loved one helped me get it. You should have seen my last one." Cyan eyes look back to Daermon. It's strangely difficult to read the paladin's expression. She's not sure what to think of the man. She speaks in a tenor, with a feline roughness to it, "That is an excellent color on you, sir. I don't believe we've met. My name is Zahrani. What is yours?" If Daermon were magically sensitive, or even slightly observant, he would more than detect an aura of divine magic about the androgynous feline, and see her amulet. Fortunately, she's not the type of paladin to be openly hostile towards all undead beings.

Lanara makes her way back up the spiral staircase, her high heels making a tapping sound on the steps, until she arrives at the balcony. Raising her pointer finger, she cues for the band to finish up their song, while she focuses on her breathing. The steps were a killer in those heels, and the dress was so snug on her torso, that she was practically panting from the ascent. The song dies down, and she approaches the railing, leaning over it, and clearing her throat, as she aims to get everyone’s attention. She gives an award winning smile to everyone, as she announces the first contest of the evening. “Communication is vital to any relationship, whether it’s towards a family member, a friend, or a lover. Words are a powerful weapon. Once spoken, they can’t be taken back. Tonight is a night of risks, my friends. For this first contest… I ask that you be victorious through prose. You must announce –who- the poem is intended for, and if they aren’t present, that is fine. However, you can only enter this contest –once- so make sure that your words are from the heart, that he or she is the one you want to speak towards, and make it count! You can be funny or romantic! It can be to a family member, friend, or lover. But your words must ring true. The only ‘rule’ is that it must be at least four lines, rhyming is optional. Each contestant will be awarded a present merely for participating, regardless how moving your poetry may be. At the end, one poet will be chosen as the ultimate winner. I will go first, as an example!” Lana quickly scans the crowd looking for a familiar face, and finds that she’s unable to locate her lycan in the crowd. Perhaps he didn’t get her note, or maybe he couldn’t tear himself away from his business in Venturil? Whatever the reason, and although her smile has vanished, she carries on with her declaration of love “My words are for Eirik Vergessen…” She pauses, and clears her throat, her tongue licking her lips, nervously, before she finds her voice, and speaks loud and clear. “I love you from your smile, to your intense grey gaze. I love you from the depths of the oceans, to the sun’s strongest rays. I love when you put your strong hand in mine. You are my love, my life, and my Valentine…” A round of applause fills the room as the woman swats at a rogue tear that trickles down her cheek, as she glances wildly around the room. “Let the contest begin!” And so, she slinks down the staircase to listen to others play the part of the poet to their loved ones, making notes on whose words would earn her vote.

Scandal nods with a smile, and drops for her a crystal about 5 inches long that changed color from the warmth of his hand from red to white. (white , cold, red, warm.) And a small puch of gold dust. "Thank you," he said with a smile. And proceeded towards the table with the chocolates glancing at the woman who was eating them.

Oline spotted Meri in passing and offered a waggle of fingers back in her direction, but then she was snatching some kind of edible thing or another and the giantess was content to fade away into the wall again. She'd have happily stayed there for a while, but a few moments later she found herself recognized by yet another face. A face, Oline decided, she was very very happy to see. "Khyne!" she yelped, surprised to see the water-snake-dragon enough to nearly hop up to her feet. Nearly, the word, because she promptly clonked her head on a bit of decorative woodwork in the corner of the room and immediately hunched back down to rub the bump it left behind. "Ah'm s'pahzed yer 'ere. Ah wu'unna thawt it'd be yer kinna theng." Upon mentioning Scandal, she'd glance to see if there was indeed a person where Qindrephyss claimed him to be.

Talyara clinks her glass against Daermon’s and laughs. “To forty percent,” she agrees before taking a sip of the bubbly alcohol. Lanara is making her way back up the stairs and she turns to face them as Zahrani and Daermon make each other’s acquaintance. When her sister announces a contest, both of Taly’s brows arch in surprise although there is a slight wrinkle in her nose when Lanara recites a love poem to Eirik.

Astrid turned an almost predatory grin onto her strawberries at Meri's mention of free treats, "I've been looking forward to this event just for the food alone," she murmured conspiratorially before taking a bite of her fruit. The topic of Cenril and the meeting earned the artist a careful scrutiny, but immediately following, her eyes widened with recognition. "Oh yeah, that's right! I thought you looked familiar. Nice to meet you, I'm Astrid." She paused to glance over toward Lanara and Talyara, nodding toward them silent indication. "They were there two weren't they?" She had been so consumed with the information of the meeting that she hadn't really made an attempt to meet-and-greet.

Eleanor slinked into the busy, packed establishment, dressed in a simple but fitted black satin halter dress that descended to her knees before revealing calves remarkably void of any tattoos. In fact, there was nothing about the woman that would betray her identity: in addition to the smooth, unblemished skin was hair dyed raven-black and set in voluminous waves to her shoulder blades, and neither diadem nor gems were present in her brow. From her shoulders hung a sable coat which she discarded and draped over an arm as she made her way toward Meri's side - opposite Astrid, likely. And it was from this new vantage point that she offered up the familiar woman a sly wink before snatching up a filled flute from a passing tray.

Celaeno bites her lips and throws a quick eye toward the refreshments, in particular the wine that had so helped her last time she had attended one of these things, but contents herself in staying put and watching her surroundings intently.

Daermon offered the kind smile to Taly, then as Zahrani spoke to him; he turned, flushing ever so slightly at having not seen that the two women had been speaking before he'd rudely interrupted. "Pardon me miss. That was terribly rude. I was caught up in the moment." he says, offering her a warm grin. "And thank you very much. I find your outfit to be lovely as well." he says. As she introduces himself, he would offer his hand, palm up, and it would be up to her if she took it. If so, he would give the back a slight kiss and a bow over it before he would release. "I am Daermon Nae'Baer. It is a pleasure." he says, then quiets as Lana moves to speak. He raised his eyebrows at the contest, but merely grinned and shook his head at the reciting of her poem.

Zahrani listens to Lanara's poem. It was cute, and it was genuine. She turns back to Talyara, saying with a sigh, "I can do many things very well, but on-the-spot poetry is not one of them. I would express my love in the work I perform. See it light up the faces of those I love...like a swift sunrise. I could recite poems from tongues far more silver than mine...but my love is in warm hands and sturdy wards." She shrugs; clearly not a poet.

Zahrani accepts Daermon's hand. Hers is warm, and a faint amber glow subtly plays across it. "Thank you for the kind gesture, Daermon Nae'Baer. The pleasure is mine."

Scandal sniffed one of the chocolates as he listened to Lanara give her speech; he made a mental note to see her before he left that night. Putting one in his mouth he tasted the creamy mint filling, "Oh wow, who knew that was my favorite flavor." He turned and nearly dropped his chocolate. He looked at the hooded figure in Brown whose white snout peeked out from under the hood. "Oh... *curse*" He whispered, and tried to maneuver himself away. But caught her eyes following him.

Meri bobs her head in a nod to Astrid. Both Talyara and Lanara were at the meeting, there is also a motion toward Encara. It is meant to indicate that she was there as well, offering her own assistance to the witches. But before Meri can really explain the intent behind this gesture, Lanara is calling for a poetry reading. Meri does not want to talk over the reading, so she just nods to Astrid and hopes that the witch can unravel the mystery. Sorry, gal. Meri does not want people staring at her for being rude during their declarations of love. In another scenario, Meri might have offered up introductions between Eleanor and Astrid, but the spell-rogue has gone to lengths to hide her identity. This does not mean Eleanor is ignored, she’s regarded with a slow smile and left to deal with any introductions she may or may not want to give on her own accord. Blue eyes scan the room for anyone else who is brave enough to declare their love in poetry form.

Qindrephyss winced a little as she saw her friend leap up and nearly concuss herself on the rafters. She wondered to herself in that moment if there was some sort of spell that she might learn over time that would let her help her friend get into tighter places like this one. Like, for example, some kind of non-permanent shrinking spell. Her cheeks silvered the same way they had at the beginning of the event- was that an offensive or rude kind of spell to think up? She'd have to give that one much longer thought than what she had right now. Her shoulders rolled in response to Oline's curiosity about her presence at the party. "I don't really know what my sort of scene is up here just yet. Scandal invited me, and he's been a dear friend since I slithered up from the deep, so I figured it couldn't hurt at all to make an appearance!" She giggled softly, and leaned in, putting all of her weight on those bare toes whose nails were ivory, just like on her fingers. A little jingle came from the shellbell-decorated anklet that rested just above her left foot. "You look lovely, you know! Probably the prettiest one in this whole crowd. Don't you think so, Sca-" she looked to her side, where she thought Scandal would be and positively wilted a moment. "Oh. I suppose he wandered off. Erm. Hm." She fidgeted for a moment in silence, wondering if she had done something wrong- she must have. After all, she didn't know a damned thing about social graces, and this was the kind of scene that probably definitely demanded graces! She shrugged, and looked up at Oline. "I guess it's us, then, for now. Hm. He must not have liked this dress..." She looked down at it, and blanched slightly. "It's got feathers, and he's got wings... do you think I offended him? Oh gods below..." She shook her head. "Nonono, I shouldn't get worked up. Erm. What..." Her gaze returned to Oline's. "...What do we even do at a thing like this??"

Talyara pardons herself from Zahrani and Daermon’s side and moves towards the staircase as Lanara descends. “That poem made me gag,” she teases her sister, sticking out her tongue to show that she was only jesting. Taly eyes the stairs precariously and silently prays to the goddess that she doesn’t fall over before beginning her ascent. Once she reaches the top, she turns towards those gathered, and clears her throat, getting ready to recite her own poem. “There has only been one person, who’s always, been by my side. Even if it was only in spirit, through our arguments and your chides. And while I may not agree, with all the choices you make; I will always love and support you, because you’re my true soul mate. So tonight I’m toasting you, here I raise my glass—to Lanara, the beautiful witch, with Lithrydel’s finest ass.” Talyara lifts her glass to Lanara before breaking out in a fit of giggles. A sip of champagne is taken before she quickly descends the stairs.

Daermon smiled and shook his head to Zahrani. "Please, only Daer or Daermon." he says, and if he held any discomfort at the holy glow, he held it well in check as he sipped at his drink with his other hand. Daermon watched Talyara with a wide eyed expression, and then joined in her laughter once the poem was complete. He however also clapped and whistled, supporting her at least forty percent as well. It had been worth it to show just for that.

Lanara manages a small smile as she nearly collides with her sibling at the bottom of the staircase, though upon hearing her words, she laughs. “I just wish Eirik were here to actually hear it. I guess he couldn’t make it…” Shaking her head, she narrows her dark hues on Taly, as the little witch glides past her and ascends the staircase. What was her sister up to now?! Lana looks up at the balcony, a champagne flute pressed into her palm, as she sips at the bubbly beverage. However, as Taly recites her own poem, the woman’s face shows a myriad of emotions. She looks as though she’s about to cry, when she bursts into sudden laughter, and begins to choke on the champagne. That. Was. Epic. Tilting her glass towards her sister, she blows a kiss to Taly, and her smile reaches her tapered ears. “Thank you, sister! I love you!” Giggling now, Lana looks around the room and watches others growing brave, and following suit.

Encara rolls her eyes towards the ceiling at Lanara's announcement - poetry, of course. Confessions of love are not her style, but after scanning the room and catching sight of a large, familiar figure across the far side of the inn, something comes to mind. With a wicked smile curving her lips, the ranger lopes across to the stairs, though she comes to a pause when Talyara makes it first. Finding herself stood beside the woman's sister, Encara slides Lanara a sidelong look before leaning a touch closer to whisper, "You look good." Talyara's poem gets an amused snort, and once she descends, Encara moves to take her place, clapping her hands sharply to draw the attention of the crowd— as if a drow poised to supposedly profess her love to someone is not eye-catching enough. "I dedicate these words to Oline, giant berserker," she declares, flashing the woman in question a broad grin and a gesture of the hand in greeting. "Of all the filth that stalks this earth, you are the most deserving of my verse. Taller than trees and tough as nails, weathering storm, beast, and icy hail— even shackles cannot hold you down, nor blood spilled bring you to the ground. You fight better naked than most armored men, and I would fight by your side again." An extravagant bow follows the unconventional declaration.

Zahrani laughs warmly and applauds Talyara's poem. It was crass towards the end, but not as a means to cause harm or offend. They were clearly accustomed to such banter. The feline quietly pockets her hands, looking around at the others. She spies Encara, flashing a smile at her should she notice. Eyes look back in Scandal's direction...what is that dragon even doing? Zahrani also quietly applauds Encara's poem. It just seems like the thing to do.

Scandal thinking he had finally avoid that hooded woman, he found himself a place in the area to speak and with a few shivers, he spoke. his poem. "Eyes that flicker with fire, the spirit as strong as the storm, let us fly into the night, while our are hearts are filled with delight, let none be aware of our leave, for when the light pierces the night, so how love endures, timeless." when he was done he said, "For the one I fall in love with." And then quickly he made his way around, searching for Qindrephyss, hoping that he had gotten some chocolates and the perfume, hoping that he had done everything right. When he found her, he would stand by her.

Astrid understood the gestures Meri provided in way of an answer, and she glanced toward the drow once she was added to the list of attendees. A brief, contemplative expression crossed her features before Lanara and then Talyara reviewed their poems. "There's no way I could think up a poem on the fly, let alone say it in front of a bunch of strangers. Good for them." She would have clapped, but champagne and food occupied both hands. Eleanor's appearance earned a welcoming smile and nod, but she was distracted by offering her name by the passing of a waiter who offered to exchange her glass for a fresh and full one. "Ooh! Yes please."

Talyara blows a kiss back to her sister and laughs, downing the remainder of the champagne in her glass as she quickly attempts to lose herself in the crowd—she did not like to be the center of attention. She makes her way back towards where she left the feline and the vampire, pausing to clap for Encara’s poem when it is done being recited. “So how do I fair as a lyricist?” She asks Daermon and Zahrani when she reaches them once more.

Encara catches Zahrani's eye as she descends back to the main floor - after a bemused frown followed by a blink, the feline gets a wave and a nod of the head in return.

Qindrephyss noted that there was a pattern of poetry taking place, and looked up at Oline, a wide grin forming on her features. She applauded, clearly pleased by Scandal's and Encara's poems- and congratulated him on his performance as he finally arrived. "Oh!" An idea popped into mind, and she too clinked a glass (which had been unceremoniously swiped up from some poor sod who had left theirs unattended) to try to get attention, the way she'd seen the others go about it. As she did so, she wondered to herself what the heck this was supposed to mean. Was it a literal summon? Was there some sort of symbolism here? She wasn't sure. In any case, soon came her bit of poetry, which she delivered to her friend with a wide smile. "I have a dear friend whose eyes are the stars, whose smile does glitter and gleam. Her gaze is of steel or of flint or of iron, and a wink from my muse is a dream. Her heart is of diamonds and her mind is of gold! No treasure I have the same worth even holds! Hair of ebon and pearl, oh she's such a cute girl, and she moves with the grace of a queen! She's mighty and lovely and quite a good sighty, my gods, what a treasure, Oline~!" With that she does a little curtsy to Oline, and then carefully returns the glass back to where she found it.

Zahrani turns back to Talyara as she asks how she did, the feline offering a grin before saying, "It came from the heart. I think that's what counts." She looks around again, assessing the security of the area and concluding that things were quiet enough. Turning back to the green-eyed elf, the panther opens her mouth as if to speak, closes it again, before saying quietly, "Would you... like to dance together at some point this evening?"

Lanara had returned the earlier whisper to Encara, stating that she looked ‘lovely’ as well, and as she sums up her poem, the witch whistles loudly and claps. Oline, who is a stranger to the witch, is given a knowing grin, before her hues drift towards her dragon friend, Scandal. As he professes his love for his unidentified special someone, she can’t help but tilt her head to the side in silent wonder. Last she had heard, he fancied her sibling, hell, he’d fought of five men in a rowdy bar fight for her affections. Her gaze follows him through the crowd as he goes to stand beside Qin, and she smiles at the pair as they stand side by side. They made a lovely scaled couple, she supposed. However, Qin takes the stage next, and her poem is to the ever-popular Oline, as well! Lana claps, whole-heartedly, at the fine spoken poem, and she finishes her drink, waiting for any other to declare their love, before the next step.

Eleanor didn't bother to offer up any names as she sipped at something bubbly in her glass, her inscrutable celadon stare shifting about the room to soak in each individual's appearance. A ghost of a smirk settled into the corner of her full lips, and she politely clapped whenever someone offered up their words for the contest. True, all the romantic prose was nauseating to the scorned woman, but she wasn't here for the atmosphere.

Scandal listened to Qindrephyss poem and smiled in the direction of Oline, if anyone deserved a heart felt need, she did. Then offering a box of chocolates to Qindryphyss and said, "This is chocolate, I believe there are six flavors here, and this is perfume." He said with a bit of smile. Which widened, "I love your dress by the way.”

Kanna bites her lip before raising her hand cautiously to indicate that she would like to take the stage. From the hidden pocket of her dress the small notebook is produced, which she flips open to a page of sheet music that has been handwritten. The red ink clearly marks what she plays but alongside it is black ink for an accompaniment she thought she would never have the chance to have. She gives the notebook to the other members of the bard's guilds who closed in together to look at it and set up their instruments. The freckled girl is clearly nervous but not because of stage fright; no, it is because of what she's about to do. She motions for the band to start. A sweet melody begins. "Under a wintery sky, I saw you walk by. I had already closed off my heart, I let the grief bind my eyes. A simple hello, a talk to make the afternoon fly. You said 'I'd hate to go alone,' it was fine since there was no one back home, then you showed me magic that lit up an amethyst sky..." She holds the note, the melody swelling to a romantic crescendo as the song that could not be written fast enough continues. "Oh to the man with the tourmaline eyes, how I wish I could be part of your amethyst skies..." The bardess finishes. With a shy bow of the head, she scurries off the stage, pointedly in the opposite direction of a certain avian so she can catch her breath.

Zahrani enjoys Kanna's poem as well as the accompaniment.

Lanara stands in the center of the ballroom, as she didn’t think she could handle that staircase again, especially after she drank a little bubbly! “Thank you all so much for professing your love! For those of you that were a little too shy, maybe try taking your special someone over to the Wishing Well, and speak to them in private. There are love petals on the table. The flower of love, for a love-filled wish! Now. You all are incredible lyricists! However, there can only be one winner, overall. So –everyone- please shout the name of the poet whose art you enjoyed best! Is it Talyara? Scandal? Encara? Qindrephyss? Or Kanna?”

Kanna is too red-faced to think.

Brennia said, "Kanna."

Meri ‘s lips form into a frown as she hears all of these expressions of love come from so many. Some of them are romantic in nature, some of them friendly, all of them succeed in shifting Meri into a more somber mood. Sad girls at Valentine’s Day parties are no fun to deal with. It is enough to make Meri forget her entire goal for being here as well. Like Eleanor, she was not here for the atmosphere. With a wink to the spell-rogue and then one for the witch, the blonde finds her exit from the party. On her wait out she shouts out a vote for Encara. Anyone who will write a poem for Oline is good in her books.

Daermon said, "Talyara."

Qindrephyss was pleased to offer up Oline a heaping plate of compliments, even if someone had already done so. She turned her attention to Scandal and blinked, taking a chocolate and popping it into her mouth. As if on command, a particularly fiery expression formed in her eyes- and within just a few moments the entire box of chocolates had been emptied, save for two, which she offered either way, one to Oline, and the other to Scandal. She herself had a real case of the chocolate mess on her fingers now, and she rather rudely set to licking the stuff off. When she decided that she was clean enough, she wiped her hands on either side of her dress (which luckily took no damage outside of now having a bit of spit on it) and then sniffed the perfume. It was a strong scent, and she had a distinct feeling that it would be a piece in her hoard rather than anything she used- but it was a pretty bottle, and she was still grateful. She thanked Scandal happily. "You're a true friend. Perhaps coming to this get together wasn't such a bad time after all." She hummed to herself, wondering who his poem had been to. It had been a sweet one. Then the vote was called for, and she clapped her hands together excitedly. She clearly didn't understand how this was supposed to work in the slightest, for she very eagerly and full-heartedly shouted, "Talyara! Scandal! Encara! Me! Kanna!"

Talyara said, "Kanna!"

Celaeno said, "Encara!"

Zahrani said, "*quietly* Oh, I can only choose one? *louder* T..S...Q...En...Kanna!"

Daermon excuses himself from the women after congratulating Taly on her poem. He stops to applauded the others as he steps out for some air, perhaps to return, perhaps not.

Scandal said, "Kanna"

Zahrani said to Talyara, "*blushes* You were all so good. I didn't know who to choose."

Encara slides back across to the nearest buffet table while others take the stage, snatching a flute of something dark and bubbly from a nearby waiter and a small biscuit from the table - she sips the former while 'accidentally' dropping the snack down the front of her shirt. To Lanara she calls, "Who was the other one with a poem for Oline? That one." Which would mean Qindrephyss, of course, but Encara isn't sure of her name. Glancing down at… whatever is in her shirt, she hisses softly, "You're getting crumbs everywhere, you little jerk."

Astrid had a similar thought in mind as she watched Meri leave, and with a final smile to Eleanor, she quickly fished the rest of her bubbly drink before leaving, a plate of treats still held in hand.

Scandal reached into his pocket, and pulling out something he held in his hand, it was very large, the of a large fruit, perfectly spherical and with a blue hue, it was hard to find from his hoard, but he was happy giving it up, standing near qindrephyss, and politely saying no to the chocolate, he took her hand, and placed in it the blue pearl. "For your hoard, i think you'll appreciate it more than i will." he said with a smile.

Talyara said to Zahrani, "Oh I'll be happy not to win, I don't like attention from the crowd."

Lanara excitedly bounces up and down, realizes how skin-tight her dress is, and re-adjusts the fabric over her cleavage. The last thing she needed was to flash the guests, and besides, that sort of behavior was best left for the Love Shack in the corner of the room. Surprisingly, no couples had sampled the makeshift structure. But the night was still young and the liquor was still flowing! Clearing her throat, the witch sums up the votes that others had casted, and she announces the winner. “The winner of the poetry contest is….” She pauses, as the drummer runs his stick rhythmically over the drums. “KANNA! Congrats, Kanna! Your poem was beautiful and heartfelt. Please, accept these roses and this prize as a token of our thanks for your participation.” Lana gives the winner a brief hug, and motions for the band to play a lively song to the get party in full swing, again. In the meantime, the witch takes a few minute breather to go and play with the puppies, before announcing the next contest.

Talyara laughs at Zahrani’s praise and nods her head. “Why thank you! I could have told embarrassing tales from when we were younger but decided to be nice,” she admits with a grin before taking up another glass of wine. At the feline’s question her eyes widen in surprise. “Oh! Um, sure, yeah!” She agrees with a smile.

Qindrephyss shrugged. "Suit yourself," she said, gobbling up the chocolate that had not been taken. Her eyes rounded once more at the gift of the pearl, and she took it in both hands, the now-empty chocolate box (unless Oline had not taken a chocolate, in which case it would be a chocolate box containing the ultimate piece) now discarded to the side as if it had never existed. Her pupils widened- clearly he had done well with this gift. A strange purr left the back of her throat. "Oh! This is a fantastic gift as well!" She held it tightly to her chest a few moments before eventually placing it in a little pocket that hung from her belt. Perhaps the belt was not fashionable- but it had come in handy anyways! "It'll go very well in the hoard, yes!"

Encara twitches whenever she hears her own name being called out, looking a little bit closer to committing murder each time. Thankfully, she isn't crowned the victor of the contest, which is something of a relief - Kanna gets polite applause from the half-drow.

Kanna looks shocked when she is crowned winner. "I-- love? The admittance of word makes her face turn redder and her eyes fall on Yoshika.

Zahrani smiles in return to Talyara. "Okay. If you change your mind later in the evening, that's alright, too." The feline feels comfortable around Talyara at the moment. She could still smell the witch's bed on herself when Taly had let her stay the night (the elf slept in the chair), and to felines, a familiar smell can be calming. It tells their brains that they are among friends and loved ones.

Lanara lowers the black puppy into his pen, and dusts the fur from her gown, as she steps back into the room. Her expression is downcast as the music dramatically slows down, into a heartfelt beat. A female stands on the stage, her voice both haunting and enchanting, as she sings a soulful ballad about two lovers becoming one. The perfect song, for such a memorable night. Now would be the perfect time to pull that loved one onto the dance floor. And Eirik was nowhere in sight. Shoulders slump slightly, as Lana presses her back against the wall, and idly sips at a glass of wine she had plucked from a tray. She was a professional dancer, without a dance partner this evening, and the yearning in her eyes was visible, as she eyes the couples dancing.

Yoshika stood in the crowd of people gathered around to watch Kanna preform. She looked nervous but Yosh knew that she would do great. She always had a habit of doubting herself but performed her song her in a flawless manner any way. It was about halfway over when he realized that it was about him. His face became red and a smile started to take over his face. When she made her way off the stage Yosh walked over to Kanna and leaned in close to her ear. “That was amazing” he said to her. Kissing her on the cheek.

Eleanor had no intention of dancing or participating in the day's frivolities; instead, she made her rounds, picking the pockets clean of unsuspecting patrons before she surreptitiously departed.

Scandal smiles, knowing she is happy with what he gave. He glances toward Lanara, and then averts his eyes. He looks down and notices a bag that wasn't there before. Scooping down he picks up pulling out a large vase with with a liquid on the inside, except the liquids were pushed up against the cork and the bottom was empty at the bottom. "What the heck is this...Smellale?" What the heck is this?" Scandal wondered aloud. he looked around for who might have dropped it.

Kanna gives a soft shy laugh when he kisses her cheek. "I'm so glad." She admits, wrapping her arms around his waist and swaying to the tune of the song

Zahrani hears the music change, turning towards the band. Wow, that didn't take long. Is this the part where people start- okay. She notices the other couples beginning to dance. The panther offers a warm, dark-skinned hand to Talyara, if she still wants to dance.

Niall is late. He's missed the poems and the voting, doesn't actually much mind. His face uncharacteristically dark, a frown bowing his beard covered lips. His hair is wild, tossed in a careless bun that rested at the nape of his neck. His beard, the same tarnished gold hues of his hair, is even more unruly and lengthy than usual. He's bothered with dressing nice, mostly, by tossing on a dress pair of trousers and a button up shirt that was noticeably wrinkled. "We ain't stayin' long," He drawls, almost growling after the two teens that were giggling in front of him. His nephew has somehow convinced him to chaperone him and his date tonight.

Scandal turned his attention to Qindrephyss, and away from the bottle, putting it on the table. He turns to Qindrephyss, "I don't know how to dance, but would you like to dance?"

Talyara puts down her glass on a nearby table and takes Zahrani’s offered hand. “I can’t do any fancy steps,” she confides. “I can barely walk in these shoes,” the witch adds with a laugh.

Qindrephyss nudges Scandal in the side, after having caught his glance towards Lanara where she leaned against the wall. "Is she who your poem is for? Go go go! Go ask her to dance! You don't need to waste your time here, I've never danced in my life. And I'm not wearing any shoes. I'll go look at those little fluffbeasts. What's the worst that could happen, for either of us?" She hummed softly and gave him yet another little nudge, and then pointed over to where the kittens and puppies were. "I'm going to go explore this. Thank you, again, for the gifts. They're wonderful, really. But go! She'll probably think you're quite the looker. And quite the dancer."

Lanara grins as Niall trails after the two smitten teenagers, for she remembered being that young and foolish. The elf finishes the remainder of her wine, her gaze drifting over the joined bodies on the dance floor as the song continues, nearly over. She’d have to announce the next activity in a moment, but for now, she sighs and is lost in the moment.

Scandal it took him a little effort, but he looked at how lonely Lanara looked, and with Qin convincing, he stepped out towards Lanara. "Hi, may I offer you a dance?" he said offering his hand.

Encara 's intentions here tonight are certainly questionable, given her apparent dislike of fancy gowns, sickeningly sweet confessions, men that make you weak at the knees and the general sentiment of love, but she knows a lonely woman when she sees one. Deciding she's spending too much time hanging around the food, the half-drow makes her way across the Destrier, skirting the edges of the room, until she comes to Lanara's side. "Need a stand-in?" she asks with a jerk of the head toward the dance floor, her voice smooth and, for once, lacking its usual bite.

Zahrani's fingers gently enclose Talyara's, the panther laughing in return and looking down at their respective footwear. Before they reach the dance floor, the paladin says, "I am not very fancy with my dancing either, but I'd be fine with dancing without shoes, if it's more comfortable." As comfortable as dancing with someone for the first time could be anyway.

Qindrephyss nearly hooted with delight as her friend worked up the guts to go talk to her, and wandered off to look at the kittens by herself. It seemed as if Oline had fallen asleep where she stood, which was fair enough. This kind of place was rather strange without a more official date, and she hardly knew anyone well enough to try to strike up a conversation. As she wandered to the animals, she gave another long look around the room, her eyes eventually settling on a gruff looking man who followed tiredly after two bubbly looking teens. She blinked a few times, and turned her gaze away after deciding that maybe she was being rude. Qin couldn't help but to wonder why he seemed so sad during such a fun party, but she also knew that it was none of her godsdamned business. Instead, she dropped a gold coin into the jar at the adoption booth, and settled herself down so that she could promptly set to petting as many cute little critters as possible. Today, she learned something very important: There are small versions of dogs and cats on the dry land, and they are called puppies and kittens, and they are perfect.

Lanara is speechless, as she went from standing solo, to having a dragon to her right, and a half-drow to her left. Both ask her for a dance. So naturally, she does what any other woman would do in her silver high-heels. She accepts –both- offers. Taking each of their hands in hers, she marches the pair to the dance floor, and the three dance in an awkward, hands joined, triangle. Lana’s long locks flow from side to side as she shakes her head, and wiggles her hips, matching the beat, immediately. In the form-fitting gown, it was hard to use all of her many dance skills, though she does her very best, and smiles at Scandal and Encara, grateful for their friendship. As the song dies down, she curtseys to them both, and dashes off to prepare the next event.

Talyara laughs and shakes her head at Zahrani. “Nah I’ll be fine. You have to work through the pain when it comes to a coordinating outfit."

Lanara whispered something to Encara.

Yoshika was a bit surprised when Kanna took him by the waist and began to dance. He had never been dancing before and wasn’t sure what to do so he just did as she did. After a few moments he began to understand that it was no different than moving in combat. It was all about the foot work. As the two held each other while they danced he couldn’t help but get a little lost in Kanna’s light blue eyes. This was really the first time they could spend time with each other and not worry about some impending threat, but still Yosh had an ear out for anything and the shuffling of feet did not go un noticed.

Zahrani shrugs, gently walking with her friend to the dance floor. The dance is simple, the panther mirroring Talyara's movement carefully, taking care not to pull too hard when it's her turn to lead. This continues until the music finishes. The paladin offers a warm grin, "That was nice."

Lanara steps onto the stage, before the two red and gold chairs, as the music comes to an abrupt halt. “May I have your attention please, everyone? I will need –two- volunteers! A man and a woman! Preferably single! Don’t be shy! Come on, help a Hostess out, eh? One man and one woman! You can each sit in one of this comfortable chairs up on the stage! I know that some in this realm are notorious for biting… But I don’t bite! I’m just a harmless elf! So any takers?!” Narrowing her eyes, she scans the crowd, looking for a man or woman that will approach the stage, and be chosen to sit upon the plush seat, for whatever she had up her sleeve.

Talyara sways to the music with Zahrani and when the music finishes she steps back and offers the panther a curtsey. “It was! Thank you for the dance!"

Celaeno finally worked up enough nerve to gulp down her nerves of the opposite kind and stand from her seat ensconced in the corner. With her first steps toward socialization, she ventures toward freshly refilled refreshments table for something helpful. It wasn't alcohol she goes to but chocolate as she snatches a few chocolate covered strawberries and candy hearts. Left gauntlet was used as a plate while the right pops each in her mouth one at a time. She searches what's left of the crowd for familiar faces who were available to speak with, not already enamoured with dates. That was a bit of a tough one, unfortunately, as she notes many has already coupled off for the evening...

Encara briefly contemplates shanking Scandal, but figures that would ruin the… uh, lovely atmosphere Lanara has evidently worked so hard to create. So she goes along with the strange, three-way dance, flowing along to the beat with catlike grace and lifting her arm to allow Lanara a twirl beneath it - which likely sends Scandal spinning, too. As the music comes to an end and the three part, Encara murmurs back to the witch, "That's what I'm here for," and gives her a faint smile.

Celaeno sighs and finds herself raising her hand for Lanara's new game, the glowing runes flashing a moment. "I seem to be available!"

Scandal enjoyed the group dance mindful though to give the half drow her space, unless she offered it but he doubted she would. And when the dance was done, and Lanara was on stage, he made his way to Qin, he may be single, but tonight he had someone with him.

Zahrani isn't sure whether to approach Lana or not. "Wait, what's this for?" The feline decides to err on the side of caution, tempting to ask ~Why a man and a woman?~ before deciding to just be quiet.

Encara silently agrees with Zahrani.

Celaeno may have been indulging her reckless side, her throat closing as it dawns on her that this game may not fit her sensibilities very well. She glances about the faces that appear male in the room. Niall, Yoshika, Scandal, Encara...They all seem silent, and she gives a small sigh of relief.

Niall isn't grinning. He doesn't remembering being that young or that foolish. He'd considered driving his whole wagon off of the side of the damn mountain the whole ride from Kelay, which wasn't even that far, because he though the ride down would have been more interesting than listening to the 'I love you sososo much'es of the two teens. They broke away from him to dance and Niall pulled a flask from his pocket. His Percheron mostly drove herself anyway, right? So, he tips his flask up just as a woman bumps into him. The whiskey spills over his chest and he curses, flinging up his hands just as Lanara asks for a volunteer.

Kanna pulls away from Yoshika when the song ends, motioning for him to lean down to her height, where she unabashedly steals a kiss from him. Before he can react, she's turned around, mostly so he doesn't see her redfaced over the chaste display of affection. She sees Celaeno making her way to the stage and waves at her.

Encara evidently decides not to keep her own mouth shut, because after a second she snorts and steps toward the stage, casting a glance at Celaeno. "I'm afraid I don't see any men here, Lanara. We may have to make do without."

Emilia is beyond the time marker for being fashionably late. The small Genasi made as silent of an entrance as she possibly could, trying to refrain from being drawn into the attention of anyone here. White curls fashioned back into a fancy series of elven braids, keeping the locks from hiding her freckle dusted face for once. The gown hugging every bony bit of the ice woman was made of a deep midnight blue that made her snow white flesh almost glow against the darkness, yet no shoes adorn her bare little feet. Silent steps carried the Healer carefully through the back of the crowd to the darkest corner without people Emi could find. It was from his spot she was quietly watch the event.

Qindrephyss happened to witness Niall's ordeal over the top of a kitten's head and immediately starts to snicker.

Lanara mistakes Niall's hand gesture as him volunteering to be on her dating game, and she motions for him to get on stage and into the offered chair. Cela, would then find her hand gently grabbed, as she's helped onto stage. "Perfect!"

Celaeno made her way up toward Lanara and that stage with a gulp, her brows lofted down toward the half-drow. "Is that you volunteering, Ranger Encara?"

Lanara saunters back and forth, before standing to the side of the man and woman, who had each lowered themselves into the designated chairs. She smiles at them, her eyes full of mischief, as she prepares to meddle in their love lives, or rather their lack of love in their lives. “Okay. First and foremost, thank you both for being the brave two that braved this stage, and my little dating game. Sadly, I must put you both in the hot seat, and ask you each to introduce yourself to the crowd. Tell us a little bit about yourself! Help us to get to know you better… And then, I need you each to tell me what it is that you look for in a romantic partner. What qualities are important to you? Likes and dislikes? That sort of thing. It will be fun!” Lana turns to Celaeno first, and motions for her to introduce herself and state what she desires in a partner, first. Once she’s finished, she would then direct her attention to Niall, to follow suit.

Encara said to Celaeno, "Apparently not, rune-mage."

Kanna tilts her head at the newcomer. Surely she had not seen him in Frostmaw lately, nor in Cenril when she first arrived. She makes a two thumbs up motion to the necromancer in training.

Celaeno yips as her little quip seemed to be lost and she's suddenly snatched away, however gently. The straps of her armor may have been a tad loose, and Lanara's grip makes the armor go crooked around her wrist like the witch had accidentally broken it or something. She adjusts the armor as Lanara introduces the rules to the game and frowns. Perhaps she could have a bit of fun with this. She taps her chin, taking a purposefully long moment of silence. "Let me see...firm on the outside, yet flexible on the inside, with a certain woody smell. Must have hidden depths and be comfortable sitting spread out for hours at a time."

Kanna wolf whistles.

Encara quietly chokes on her drink.

Celaeno said, "Also, my name is Celaeno. I am a runic enchanter, as that ranger pointed out, and am starting out what will hopefully a fruitful path in Necromancy. I enjoy lurking in cemeteries, lingering in libraries, and knowledge of all kinds."

Scandal is about to be near qin, when a hooded figure grabs him by the arm and pulls him to a back corner of the room, without many people.

Encara -is- all of those things Celaeno just described, incidentally.

Zahrani does her best not to roll her eyes. Of course it's a dating game. Sighing, the feline turns to Talyara, "I'm really not sure what to do at this point." She's a platonic snuggler, but she's currently standing next to the only person that she'd even consider that a romantic possibility. And even that was the longest of shots. Her attention instead wanders over to the kittens, the paladin getting out a gold piece and walking over to gently pet them. They seem eager to show affection in return.

Kanna claps a hand over her mouth the second the whistle is out, remembering who she's standing next to. "I'm ah, gonna get a snack?" She says it like a question and beelines for the pastries.

Niall curses under his breath and makes his way up to the stage and into the chair. "I didn't volunteer," He mutters, as Lanara charms the crowd. His eyes scan the crowd, Lanara, and lastly the woman beside him. His frown deepens. "Lookin' for in a..." He trails off as Celaeno speaks and says after her, "Dark skin, a voice that could stop a man's heart. A leader, a fighter. Someone who ain't afraid to tell me like it is, whose maybe a little guarded." He stands again, feeling he's done his duty, and shoves his hands in his pocket. "My name is Niall, I run The Coin Brother's Trading Caravan. If you're lookin' for it, we got it," He takes a second to grin at the crowd before slipping off the stage and becoming part of it again.

Encara, amusingly, is most of those things too.

Celaeno offered Niall a firm couple claps before he waltzes off the stage. She glances uncertainly back toward Lanara. "Is that it? Is that the game?"

Lanara then turns to the audience, and her gaze drifts over each and every possible hopeful, a grin on her pretty face. “I think you –all- know what happens next, right? I need THREE of you to volunteer if you would be interested in dating the lovely lady, Celaeno!” Lana pauses as three are selected from the group of raised hands, she then motions to the male. “And I need THREE of you that would love to have a chance to date the handsome man, Niall!” Security stops Niall as he aims to leave the stage, and motions for him to sit his cute butt back into the chair. As three more hopefuls are selected, she clasps her hands excitedly together.

Zahrani is petting kittens. If anyone wants to date her, they can find her there.

Celaeno wrinkles her nose at those security goons and stays parked in her seat, fiddling with a few strands of brocade on her skirt.

Yoshika watches as kanna goes and socializes with the others there. Standing on his own he makes his way over to the side so that he can watch everything and keep a perspective of the comings and goings of the room.

Scandal felt his back pressed up against the wall in the back corner, as the free hand hood figure pulled back her hood revealing her raptor like features, "Your pissed, aren't you." Scandal said as he felt her talons dig into his shirt. Her white flesh and red eyes clearly gave it away, as well as that red stripe which circled around her neck and face. She pulled out of her satchel, the same vase of smell ale he had seen earlier. "When i offer of gift, you take it." she said shoving it in his hands. "Enjoy your night." She said before pulling her hood back up and walking out the back. Scandal then returned to qin, and offered her the bottle. "Something we should try later, from a friend." He said catching his breath.

Qindrephyss raises a hand and gestures towards Celaeno, though to be frank, she would have swung either way.

Kanna throws a hand up. "I'll go to Cela!" She decrees, shooting her a knowing wink. She knew from her body language that she was already uncomfortable. Hell, she would be too.

Scandal raised his hand, and gestured he didn't care who he got paired with.

Encara is starting to regret the decision to skulk around this party. Still, perhaps in an effort to spare Celaeno too much suffering, the half-drow raises her hand with a resigned sigh.

Zahrani reluctantly raises a hand for Niall. She guesses she fits some of that.

Lanara clears her throat, pleased with the six hopefuls that are vying for the affections of the two volunteers. “Wonderful! Now! I’m going to ask a set of three questions, to each of the contestants… Answer from your heart. It can be short or a lengthy response… When you are all done, the –audience- will decide who is most worthy of dating these two hopefuls.” A look is given to Cela and Niall, as Lana purses her lips, somewhat amused. She seriously doubted that Niall would have any issue attracting a mate with that mug, and Cela was ravishing in that gown! “If you dislike the ‘choice’ there is no pressure. However, you will have to grant a slow dance to the one that is chosen. It’s all in good fun, and perhaps a love match will be made! So, without further adieu, here we go!” Lana pulls a scrap of paper from her cleavage and quickly reads it to herself, before addressing the fateful six that were chosen. Qindrephyss, Scandal, and Kanna had volunteered to date Celaeno, and Talyara, Encara, and Zahrani had volunteered to date Niall. “Okay. The first question! If you were stranded on a deserted island and you could only have three items with you, what would they be?” She would pause, watching each candidate as they reply.

Kanna seems not to hesitate. "My rucksack, plenty of snacks, and my koto."

Niall was herded back into his chair. His flask resurfaces, uncaring of the very public eye he was sitting in. He takes a long drink.

Qindrephyss hummed softly as she considered her answer for a while. "I would take my staff, my favorite crystal, and my scrying bowl."

Celaeno glances over her list of suitors, and Niall's for that matter, each given a polite bow of her head as she folds her hands in her lap. Kanna, Encara, and Zahrani are offered sympathetic smiles on top of that. Qindrephyss and all of her vibrant colors are given a twinge more intrigue as she leans forward with big eyes and Scandal has her quirking her head to one side as she recalls him from the recent summoning of Aramoth and the ensuing battle. Talyara would only recieve the polite nod, unfortunately, still a stranger for the moment.

Zahrani responds with her rough tenor voice, "My crossbow and bolts, a knife, and my armor."

Celaeno said to Niall, "You certainly came prepared."

Zahrani smiles back at Celaeno. She's fine.

Scandal secretly wished Lanara would stop pulling stuff from, he stopped that thought in its tracks. And spoke his answer. " Assuming I didn't just fly away, I would take an a clock, mint choco, a sign that reads "Let sleeping dragons lie, for you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup."

Encara kicks a chair out from under a table and promptly claims it for herself, throwing one leg over each side as she sits wrong way round on the thing, resting her arms atop the wooden backrest. Her piercing gaze flicks between the two contestants before landing back on Lanara. "I only need one: a knife," she answers confidently.

Niall leans over to stage whisper, "Not nearly enough," and holds the flask out to Celaeno. His partner in public romance shame. He watches the random merchant leave and feels a twinge of sadness he doesn't quite understand.

Daermon slipped back into the ball, having wandered off for a smoke or something. Whatever, he's back and watching with interest from the back of the room. Crowds gave him pause after all.

Talyara keeps her focus on the stage and those on it as opposed to the people in audience watching. Thankfully, when Lanara poses her question, her green eyes go to her sister as she considers how to best answer. “I would take my Book of Shadows, a quartz crystal, and a bottle of elven wine."

Lanara smiles at each contestant, although Encara seems to be a little enraged by the game. Arching a brow, she reads the second question aloud, and as the merchant leaves, she frowns slightly, hoping she didn’t ignore anyone that may have wanted a shot at love. Luckily, the night was still young and there was always a chance for true love! “Okay! Thank you, all! The next question is… You see someone pull a knife on your beloved! Think fast! Would you step in and risk your life? Fight the assailant? Or merely look for a new lover, should this one perish?”

Celaeno purses her lips as she considers all of the replies. She may have taken the offered flask and awkwardly tipped a swig into her mouth without her lips touching the spout before handing it back with puffed out cheeks. The ensuing swallow and coughing fit had her feeling a twinge dizzy as she looks over the respondants. Out of her three 'volunteers'

Qindrephyss waves a hand dismissively. "Easy. I'd just spit acid on them."

Qindrephyss quickly corrects herself. "O...on the assailant, I mean. Not on my beloved!"

Scandal thought long and hard, it hadn't occured to him that could occur but then he realized what he needed to say, "If I could save her, I would, the villain would be dealt with." he said the words with a very dark intent which caused a few people to step away from him. "If I couldn't, no god would stop me from making an end to villian responsible, not even if I had to..." he left the words unspoken as more people moved away from him.

Talyara also thinks this question is easy. “I would attempt to fight the assailant myself, of course!"

Zahrani responds to Lanara's question, a wry grin on her face as she looks to the elf, "Not to sound unoriginal, but I'd probably suplex the assailant into something solid behind me."

Encara is enraged by everything, don't take it personally. At the second question, her eyes shift to Niall again for a long, thoughtful moment, before she rolls her shoulders in a shrug. He looks like he can hold his own in a fight. "If my 'partner' is not strong enough to defend themselves from such a simple threat, they aren't worth the effort."

Celaeno then assessed the other trio. Encara earns themselves an 'oooh' as the alcohol already begins to take effect. Zahrani is given a knowing nod, good choices for such a woman. Talyara is given a second glance, a mental note made to try talking to her later.

Lanara shakes her head and masks a scowl at her sister’s answer. Fight them!? Taly was a diminutive little elf! However, Zahrani’s response brings a knowing grin to her face, and she nearly snorts from Qin’s response. Acid on her lover! The thought was so absurd that she had to bite back a laugh. Scandal earns a nod, while Encara is given a quizzical look, though a hint of mischief is in her expression. That half-drow was something else! Finally, Lana looks back at Niall and Cela, to see how they are faring. “Thank you both so much. You’re doing amazing! Only –one- more question and you will have your dance partner for the next song. Also, there is a Love Shack, should you wish to, uh, use that.” A faint blush creeps into her high cheekbones, as she returns her attention to the six chosen ones. “Final question! Make it count! It’s your anniversary. What do you plan for your significant other?”

Encara said, "Love shank? Hell yes."

Encara curses, realising she misheard.

Aurore saunters in sneakily, cleverly evading any curious onlookers and slinking past would-be suitors in favor of the drinks, the cakes, and the little creme pastries.

Aurore is satisfied, so she saunters out just as quickly into the cold and lovely night.

Zahrani isn't feeling terribly original, "What do I plan FOR? I'd...probably make plans alongside my significant other...unless it was a surprise that I knew they'd like." The feline is clearly more invested in the thought of snuggling cute animals and friends than she is in this game.

Talyara wrinkles her nose in thought as she considers how to best answer the final question. In the end she simply shrugs her shoulders. “It would depend on *who* my significant other is. I’m not going to take them to the beach if they don’t know how to swim or do something romantic if that’s not their style."

Scandal paused, oh boy that was tough one, though his mind kept slipping back to what Lanara meant by love shack. "I'd start by making her breakfast, while she sleeps in, then i'd plan a day for her, and myself, set her up with Bastion get her ready for the evening take her to a fine gown maker, buy her what she wants, no matter the expense, i would spare none on her, and then, when the night arrives, I take her to fine meal at the best Restaurant there is, and then to theater he would go, and only then when we return home, I would make her feel extra special."

Qindrephyss hummed for a few moments. "I'd figure out how to get them to breathe underwater, and then show them my chasm." She is, of course, referring to the sea chasm she came forth onto the land from. Others might not know that, though.

Celaeno said to Qindrephyss, "I'm sure I could fashion a device for that. You have a chasm, though? A cave of sorts?"

Zahrani is keeping the pokiest of all poker faces at both Scandal and Qin. ~Set her up with Bastion~ sounds rather interesting out of context, and so does chasm.

Celaeno said to Scandal, "A traditionalist, aren't you?"

Qindrephyss nods eagerly. "One on land, and one deep, deep under the sea. It's very lovely and peaceful and calm, if you don't mind the dark too much."

Scandal said to Celaeno, "Always"

Celaeno said to Qindrephyss, "Do you have any books there? Are you a sort of merfolk?"

Lanara awaits each answer, nodding her head, enthusiastically. “Alright. Crowd! I need you to choose the winners! Who would be the perfect match for Celaeno?! Is it Qin? Scandal? Or Kanna? Please, shout your choice!”

Encara glares, but it's half-hearted. She tries to picture herself celebrating an anniversary with someone close to her heart, but she's clearly having trouble digesting the imagery. "A… candle-lit meal?" the ranger answers at last, though she sounds doubtful. "Not one of those ridiculous affairs with tiny sandwiches and heart-shaped cakes - a full, hearty meal with the finest cuts of meat. Nothing but the best will suffice, of course. The locale would be… somewhere important to them? I don't know." She grinds her teeth, jaw tight - evidently this taking some effort on her part. "After the meal, I'd present them with the head of their enemy… or a hand at the very least. Maybe just their enemy's most prized weapons." Her glower is turned on Niall, as if this is somehow all his fault. "And if they don't have enemies, they're a terrible partner."

Qindrephyss glances momentarily at Encara. The idea of being presented with a hand is simultaneously adorable and terrifying to her.

Celaeno declares a quick warning toward the crowd, and the contestants for that matter: "There is sure to be plenty of stubbed toes. I was not the dancer in my family."

Niall listens to each contestant politely, leaning forward to rest his forearms near his knees. Encara and Zahrani make him laugh, because they don't answer much differently than he might, but Talyara makes him thoughtful. Witches were a hot topic lately. Having never had an issue with one, he doesn't completely buy into the things uttered in fear from Larketians, but he does have to wonder at the truth in it. All rumors carried a seed of truth, did they not? Lanara mentions a Love Shack and Qindrephyss mentions showing off her chasm and he's coughing on his whiskey now too. His calloused hand moves to scratch the back of his neck. This has been a wild night. He waits for the crowd to decide his fate, thinking that any answer would be alright with him, and wishes he had more to drink.

Celaeno said to Encara, "We should really have a meal together sometime. None of this partner business, but you sound like a very good friend to have, and I can make that kind of dinner!"

Niall returns Encara's glare with a grin, belatedly. Somehow, charmed.

Qindrephyss 's cheeks turn a deep shade of silver. "No books, I'm afraid. I... don't know how to read. I'm certain I could fashion a bubble or some other waterproof device to help keep books safe under there, though." She glances away. "Not a merfolk, but I've seen many of them in my day. Grumpy folks, from my experience. They don't like you land-walkers very much, do they?"

Celaeno seems to have become quite a bit more talkative, a possible lightweight as her cheeks heat up and she withdraws further commentary in awaiting her doom--the crowd's verdict.

Talyara said, "Qin!"

Daermon said, "Qin!!"

Zahrani said, "Zahrani! Just kidding...Qin!"

Encara said, "Qin."

Lanara announces, Qindrephyss, as the winner of Celaeno’s hand… As a dance partner for the next song, at least. Who knows if something more would develop? Reading her palm on Niall’s shoulder, she looks at the handsome male, and secretly hopes that the crowd will choose her younger sister, Talyara, as his partner, as the babies those two would make…. Ahem. Clearing her throat, Lana addresses those gathered. “And now… Who is the best match for Niall? Is it Talyara? Encara? Or Zahrani? Please, yell your vote!”

Daermon said, "Encara!"

Celaeno said to Niall, "I say Ranger Encara. You look like you can take a challenge."

Qindrephyss wiggles her shoulders in delight. She wins! She also votes! "Encara!"

Aurore changes her vote to Talyara.

Lanara discretely votes for Talyara.

Zahrani said, "Encara."

Lanara announces, Encara, as the chosen winner for a dance with Niall, and possibly more, should the crowd have matched a perfect pair. The witch turns to the two happy couples, and thanks them for volunteering, before slipping a small prize into their hands. She then motions for them all to exit the stage, and to proceed to the center of the dance floor. The band returns to the stage and plays a beautiful, slow, song, as the two couples find their way into each others arms and sway to the music.

Niall is innocent to the thoughts of babies floating around in Lanara's head, luckily. He spots the two teens he is supposed to the chaperoning making out in a corner and groans. His brother was never going to let him hear the end of this. Distracted, he almost misses the announced winner. His eyes scan them and he offers a polite, if awkward smile as he stands. "Guess you're my partner," He drawls, offering a hand to lead them to the dance floor... A small part of him hopes they don't just stab him instead.

Celaeno blinks a moment, as she finds herself ushered to the dance floor. She finds her way to the colorful woman's side and offers her hand, stiff as the motion was. "I hope you know what you're doing. I, sadly, do not."

Qindrephyss’ demeanor shifted slightly as it becomes apparent that the dance is literally about to happen. As herself and Celaeno were brought closer, a series of garbled apologies are delivered, all on the subject of 'I don't know how to dance, man,'.

Encara rises from her chair, ready to step on some toes. She'll meet Niall half-way to the centre of the dance floor, where he gets a knife-like grin that's more dangerous than inviting. "Don't disappoint me after everything we just went through," the drow laughs.

Talyara hops off the stage and beelines for for the drinks. Finding nothing strong, she sidles over to the bartender to see if her has something that will appease her. He does and he slides her a glass of an amber liquor.

Zahrani takes a seat next to the kittens. Should Talyara meet up with her, the panther simply smiles and chuckles at the silliness of what just occurred.

Oline has totally been here the whole time. Really. She's just very shy at parties.

Niall says, "I can't promise you that, darlin'," He laughs, and leads her into the dance. He's not half bad, mostly manages to keep in time and his feet to himself. "Happy to make your acquaintance," He says by way of small talk. "Hope not to meet your knife's acquaintance as well,"

Celaeno offers a sympathetic smile to the other woman and takes both of her hands, not pulling her close as a proper slow dance required, but holding her at a comfortable distance for both of them as she sways from side to side. "I suppose I shall lead, then. What was your name by the way?"

Daermon caught Taly's eye from where he was at the back wall, raising his drink with a smile and a laugh. He had applauded all those who had finished and then turned to watch the dance floor with most of the rest of the ball.

Zahrani wanders over to Talyara, ordering a drink for herself. She offers her friend a warm smile and says, "That was an adventure I wasn't expecting. How are you feeling?"

Qindrephyss emitted a noise that would be possibly difficult to replicate; it sounded something like a distant rumble of thunder followed by the hiss of volcanic emission making contact with water. "Qindrephyss. Or just Physs. Or Qin. And yours?"

Scandal stepping toward Lanara scandal offers his hand again in a dance. "I am not otherwise preoccupied, so if you would like."

Lanara grins as she walks past Encara and Niall, as she exits the dance floor. Had he called her ‘darlin’ just then? How freaking cute! And she’s pleased to see that Cela and Qin are already discussing books and such. Tonight wasn’t a complete failure, and the worry washes from Lana’s face as she heads to the bar, desiring a drink. Hosting was exhausting, and she didn’t even get a full dance! Plus, she was spending Valentine’s Day… Alone. There was nothing worse than not entirely being along, but feeling alone. Perhaps she could drown her sorrows in a nice glass of whiskey. As the barkeep slides a glass towards her, she sips at it, her chocolate hues downcast, as she merely swirls the amber liquid. For now, she tunes out the music, her sibling, and those gathered. She had imagined ending the night with someone special, and he hasn’t shown up.

Encara is an elegant fighter and that grace lends itself well to dance, so she takes to the music like a fish to water. Niall gets a kick to the shin when he steps on her toes, but there's not much strength behind it - he looks as reluctant to be here as the ranger is, so she takes a little pity on him. What could have gotten into her? She leans close enough to whisper her reply, a wicked smirk on her lips. "The knife is for after the dance." That could definitely be interpreted a few different ways. "Encara Val'thyrion," she introduces while they slowly spin. "Though I suppose I would've preferred to meet you somewhere less… sickening."

Talyara lifts her drink in a toast to Daermon, waving him over to join her. When Zahrani does the same Taly chuckles. “Knowing Lana, it could have been worse.” The little witch takes a sip of her beverage and sighs contently at the pleasant burn. “I’m okay. My feet are killing me,” she says with a wrinkle of her nose. “How were the kittens?"

Celaeno 's slightly pointed ears perk with interest at that odd noise as she continues her awkward shuffle with her victorious partner for the evening. "A pleasure to meet you Miss Qindrephyss. I'm Celaeno. Why, might I ask do you live under water?"

Encara hopes Lanara didn't hear that last remark of hers - the witch did her best with tonight's event, she knows. It's just a shame it doesn't particularly suit Encara's style.

Zahrani sips from her own drink, her ears picking up the occasional sounds around her. She could never fully tune out her environment, especially when it's this noisy. She grins warmly, "The kittens were my second favorite part of this event. Getting to spend more time with you is nice too."

Lanara had politely declined Scandal’s offer of a second dance, as the poor girl had to rest her feet and she was nursing that whiskey like it was some secret treasure. As he whispers in her tapered ear about the bottle of moonshine he plans on opening up, she throws her head back and laughs, though her smile doesn’t quite meet her eyes. “No, thank you. You’re a good friend Scandal. But I’m not really in the mood for hanging out, right now… I just have a lot on my mind. But thank you.”

Niall mutters an 'ow' as Encara's foot meets his shin, more for show that for actual feeling as she spared him much force, and he's giving her his most charming grin. "Is it now?" He asks, because he has no idea what else to say. "Niall Coin, pleasure is all mine," He introduces himself after her. "Even if it's in a place like this." He lets her take the lead in the dance, seemingly in her element with it, and at the end of the song he would give her hand a soft squeeze. "Catch you around?" And with that, he pulls away to round up the nauseating, handsy teens and head back to Kelay.

Daermon moved to join Talyara and Zahrani, giving the feline a soft smile, almost apologetically as he joined them. "Ladies. Quite the show. I enjoyed what I caught of it. Had to step out for a bit myself. I don't particularly enjoy crowds." he admits.

Oline seems content to sit in the corner quietly keeping to herself, for now. She watches those who remain enjoying themselves... or... at least going through the motions of enjoying themselves. It's been an enlightening social experience... at least to some small degree.

Scandal nods to Lanara and simply to chooses to sit nearby unite company perhaps was the best. Scandal had mildly lied about not being drunk before, when he had been young a single shot of whiskey had knocked him out but now being the big dragon he is, he had gone almost 1000 draughts of heavy brandy and the morning after realizing it had had no effect on him. But now he was tempted to try it, I mean it was ale, after all. He uncorked the bottle, but the liquid turned to a vapor and breathed in without thinking. Immediately his eyes swam, his vision blurred, and before he hit the floor unconscious he said, "Oh.... so thats why I stopped drinking."

Celaeno would continue to shuffle about with Qin and ask her series of inquisitive little questions of the fascinating new acquaintance until the song reached its end, then she would find her nerves altogether overwhelmed by all the extra attention and rush back to her chair for a bit, this time with a drink...

Talyara gives up and hands her drink to Zahrani. “Can you hold that a minute, please?” Then Daermon is used, the witch grabbing hold of his arm so she can bend her leg back and undo her heel. She repeats the process and kicks her shoes to the side. Unfortunately, not the petite teen as lost several inches of height. She accepts her drink back from the feline and smiles. “It was an enjoyable evening. Lanara did a great job, don’t you think?” She asks the duo who keeps her company.

Encara's heart might've melted at that charming smile, were she one of the simpering surface elves that call these lands home. When their brief dance is over, the man squeezes her hand before bidding her farewell - Encara returns it with a small wave and quips, "Maybe next time I'll show you my daggers, Niall Coin." Once he's gone, she looks down at her hand, pondering the meaning behind the gesture and wondering if he was simply trying to break her bones. If he was, well… that grip was far too weak! Encara frowns.

Oline definitely wasn't eavesdropping on Encara...

Zahrani holds onto Talyara's drink as the elf takes her shoes off. The feline gives a wry grin, "I did say you could take those off before we started dancing..." Oh well. It was her freedom to choose as she did. She hands the drink back to Talyara, before returning to her own next to her, "It was nice. I'm not really a person who actively seeks decadence..." It tends mostly to land in her lap from some of the people she helps. "...but Lanara obviously put a lot of heart into the event. No pun intended." A sip of her drink is taken, before, "The night continues to be enjoyable."

Encara feels eyes on her, but the glare she throws around the inn lessens somewhat when she comes to realise she's only pinned by Oline's focus. Relieved to see the giantess still hanging around, the half-drow makes her way across the room to her, offering a little wave in greeting. "So you -do- wear clothes." There's a faint spark of mischief in her eyes - she knows how fond of clothing Oline is, and it's clear the woman is pretty uncomfortable in her gown. "Silver suits you."

Emilia must have fallen asleep in the corner behind the party scene. Whoops.

Lanara peers down at Scandal, as he falls to the floor, unconscious. The witch lifts her arm and wiggles her fingers, motioning for security to see the male out, lest someone trip over his slumbering form. As the pair of bouncers aims to hurl the dragon into the night, she shakes her head and points upstairs. She’d put his room on her tab. It was bad enough he’d have to suffer through the hang-over he’d have to deal with come morning. The men haul Scandal up the steps, nearly dropping him along the way, before they fade from view. Lana downs the remainder of her whiskey, and rises to her feet, swaying, somewhat, as the liquor doesn’t bode well with an empty stomach. The band is now playing rather lively music, though they stop for a moment, so she can speak. “Thank you all for coming! I hope your night was lovely and that it’s spend with a loved one! Happy Valentine’s Day! Feel free to linger for the rest of the evening, as the band will be playing all night!” Smiling at those that meet her slightly tipsy gaze, she gives a brief curtsey, before the band resumes their playing. All in all, the night was fun filled, and hopefully, a few of them will have found a new love interest, or have strengthened their bond with their special someone. If not, there’s always next year!