The fox enters to see what all is going on, though he takes his time to place some writs to the one handling them for the moment. He then moves about into the place.

Someone wearing a brillant silken phoenix mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a seasilk and silk squid mask with eight tendril arms has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

The park has been decorated to host a masquerade ball with the grandeur expected of a spring time affair. A red carpet with black edging guides visitor steps toward a wall of gossamer curtains, billowing whimsically in the breeze. Following the carpet, the visitors will through an short archway tunnel of blooming yellow orchids, to give the sense of walking into an enchanted garden. They'll be greeted by Rubino livery servants who will take care of greeting guests on behalf of the Lodge of Petrichor sponsored by Rubino-Zaffria, handing them the information card on the nights events. It's efficient, and assures that everyone feels welcome...



Inside the Masquerade grounds, the ungulates look well attended with pens cleaned and fed special treats such as apples and mixed vegetables. Musicians reside on a wooden platform that elevates them above the dance floor, designed for them to benefit their acoustics. It is a small orchestra of instrumental performers with a few singers additional to their number. One singer in attendance may very well be a known Whisper with increasing fame. From their layout, they'll be able to play a variety of music, from the enchanting theatrical noble grace of ronde and caroles to the livelier common jig

There's a fairly sizable table displaying some of the various prizes of the evening to win, from luxurious rings and perfumes, to curious mysterious yet to be revealed. Not much beyond that, there's a rather large wagon holding some obvious casks of alcohols. Servers are constantly drifting around the area without masks, but instead little giraffe headbands. These servers will be providing beverages of choice from sparkling wines, hard liquor, to ale and meads.

For decor, numerous polls with ribbons and streamers of flowers border the area. A mixture of living flowers of all spectrum and color, as well as crawling creeping plants and ferns have been arranged to provide fresh aromas to the area; while candles, lanterns, and torches have been strategically placed for when the sun starts to go down.

Servers are constantly drifting around the area without masks, but instead little giraffe headbands. These servers will be providing beverages of choice from sparkling wines, hard liquor, to ale and meads. Food and further beverage is found near the entrance, under a large festival tent, to provide a mingling point for the guests away from the music and dancing. Goodies like cakes and puddings and pies are available. Also served is the array of cold and cooked meats, cheeses, vegetables, fruits, an assortment of baked casseroles, pastas, salads. The hosts went out of their way and spared no expense. Strangely enough, one will notice there are NO bird dishes out ? no chicken, no turkey, no pheasant!



Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn strolls in casually and glances around the area. A slow smile forms on her lips as she observes the many varied costumes. Appropriately, she makes her way over toward the garden area overlooking the festivities and 'plants' herself on a bench amid the spiders and wolves.

:has been here since the party first began, chatting here or there with a patron, complimenting a mask, and otherwise enjoying a glass of the Raconteur's Impish Intentions. However, in that flowy, silk dress of hers it wasn't long before the chill caught her, and she moves to find a seat close to the comfortable fire.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

2 House Velenosa Guards arrives, following Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz.

4 Ashford House Guard, Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz arrive, following Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies arrives in a sweep of Cardian Snakeskin, glittering with rubicund, stygian, iridescite, and featuring an actual dragonweep necklace. She offers a nod towards the host, handing off a small bag of silver before heading deeper into the area, looking around here and there as she moves towards the refreshments to secure a drink before seeking somewhere to settle at.

The sauntering figure of the osprey in rose-gold and sable enters the grandiose masque area, plucking glasses from a tray as he passes. He takes a sip, shrugs, and ducks into an exhibit to sit and wait for people that he might be waiting for. Or avoiding. It's the beauty of a mask.

Someone wearing a brillant silken phoenix mask wields Thrall's Fury, a diamondplate seax.

Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask makes his way through the small crowd as he is wearing his own House Sword. That seems to be the easiest way to find out what Swords are visiting. The spirit looks around impassively, but seems to be scanning the crowd for someone - who has not arrived yet.

Someone wearing a brillant silken phoenix mask wields Freedom.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask enters the room with a woman wearing a Quartz mask who is dressed as a peacock. Her hand is on his arm as he leads her into the room. "Nice turnout here, I admit."

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask has darted about the venue, lithe and sprightly, since it began. And, having explored every corner, returns to the boulders by the fire and perches upon one. She settles in to watch the passersby with interest.

Someone wearing a detailed seasilk and feather owl mask with a draping cowl arrives hopefully doing better than the Halfshav in keeping his identity concealed. The mask, after all, covers his face well and there is a cowl that drapes off of it. For a moment, the tall man looks around the room, likely seeking someone in the mess of people, amde all the more difficult by the concealing masks everyone wears.

Someone wearing a silver squid mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask gambols in with another dressed as an otter. This romp is ready for a masquerade! Armlinked, as otters are wont to do, the two twirl around the grounds marveling at the trasnformation. "Where shall we sit?"

Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask drifts her way to the giraffe viewing, her wing-shaped cloak billowing behind her. She moves with purpose, snatching up a glass of wine on her way so that she can carefully drink through her mask. Her posture is perfect, her bearing regal, with a straight spine, shoulders back, and head held high. She looks quite pleased with the turnout to the party.

Someone wearing a wickedly decadent arachid mask takes a long look around before getting a glass of wine. She then heads somewhere to enjoy it.

Pawn, the courtier's apprentice arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears before departing.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask came early, for reasons, and has found herself a glass of some sparkly wine to sip while she waits. She's leaning against a support for one of the displays, examining the fingernails of her free hand.

Pawn, the courtier's apprentice arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears before departing.

Someone wearing a silver kitten mask with black opal ears has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask arrives, following Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask.

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask walks down the fancy carpet, arm in arm with his companion that is also wearing a mask of the avian variety. He swings his head around to enjoy the decorations and the animal displays, but also with an eye out for where the food is. Secondary to that? A place to get out of the way of the incoming crowds, because this is quite the crush of people.

Someone wearing a detailed seasilk and feather owl mask with a draping cowl has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz is still admiring the snug fit of the elk's breeches on the way in, the silk ribbons around her feet muffling the sound of her steps as she struts along beside him, her head tilting to examine the crowd. "Everyone loves a good mystery." she admits readily, giving the held arm a gentle squeeze. "You do look handsome, if a bit frightening."

Someone wearing a silken mask of shimmering butterfly wings has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask enters, following the line of guests ahead of her. She pauses as she is handed an information card. She is alone, standing comfortably in her costume and moves forward, taking in the assortment of costumes and masks.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers steps into the Menagerie with a sweep of lush, dark skirts that seem to almost float about her as she moves. Her attention casts curiously over the room, taking in the vast array of masks, and eventually seem to settle on the figure in the osprey mask. She makes her way over, sauntering just a bit, a hint of a smirkish smile on her painted red lips.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask follows her companion, her arm curled through his as she looks around. He might be keeping an eye out for the food, but she is keeping her eye out for the booze, and grabs herself a glass as soon as she finds one.

Someone wearing silk mask with peridots and emeralds arrives, following Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird.

watches splendor of it all from where she stands. The black and silver dress she wears hugs her frame drawing out the length of her legs making them look even longer if that were possible. She enjoyed being behind the mask as if it gave her permission to escape her usual behavior for something more sensual.

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask glances towards the clam when she presents the question to him. The tilt of the spirit's head studies the clam curiously. "Does the clam not feel itself drawn and moved within the water - guided to another purpose. Played and tugged along, the innocent flirtations of the water as it washes over it?" he asks the clam as he straightens up.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing a dual-faced silvery white mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask sways over by the exhibit and smiles plush lips to those already there. "My myyyyy, " purrs a tenor voice, "So many masks, and I...not knowing any of them." One eye behind the mask winks, to both no one, and everyone. Such a flirt the dangerous Ocelot is.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask smiles towards the lady in quartz, and says, "That is not necessarily a bad thing." No names or titles are being used and says, "Where do you wish to sit? There are a number of places available."

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth watches the crowds and with a little glance all around, she runs her fingers along the daring umbra, that deep cut nearly to her naval certainly exposing more than she's used to, before she bites her lip and moves to settle down somewhere a bit quieter.

Someone wearing a feathered and jeweled silver half-mask says, ""Lovely" she breathes out, as she moves through the grounds with no companion or plus one but looks around to the various residents and the guests."

Someone wearing NeverMore Raven Mask comes in, looking about the sea of masks and costumes, head turning from side to side as if seeking someone out. Shaking his head he just starts to make his way around the room, mingling, but not saying anything just yet.

Someone wearing a stunningly sensual mask a fire and ice dragon that flows down the cheeks in metallic hues arrives among the crowd of others, though the masked figure could have been seen earlier looking over one of the exhibits on the other side of the grounds. Dressed in a seasilk creation of soft blues, shimmer whites and a hint of other crystalline colors she seems to blend in just fine with the other more colorful people. A circlet of pearls and shimmering stones wind along her body in the form of the dragon's body as the caress of flames and scales surround hair and features. Dark eyes slowly look around the gather before she finally heads the ways of refreshments and a good viewing point for the coming festivities.

The fox looks around a bit to see about what folk are up to, then he moves to find a drink at a table. He's the only one there that's a fox likely, in a world of mostly the owls that would seem.

"Oh! Clams! C-" the otter breaks off and clears his throat. "I'm feeling peckish, we otter get something to eat!" He skims by the shark and grins, "Careful biting your lip with all those teeth!"

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask stops a server and selects from the array of beverages a mixed drink that is oddly, opaquely white. It looks something not quite like a glass of milk, though it smells faintly tropical. The feline appears to greatly appreciate her chosen beverage, and might seem to be the type that also likes getting caught in the rain.

6 King's Own Guardsmen arrives, following Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask arrives, following Someone wearing wooden sad face mask.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz gives a delicate crinkle of her nose as she surveys the crowd, lofting up onto her toes in order to seek out somewhere less busy. "Surprise me I guess, too many people for me to pick a good place just yet." she tuts aside to the elk, reaching up to fuss with his mask until it's perfect.

Someone wearing The Visage of the Midnight Raven is clearly one of the hosts for the evening as the raven-esque figure stands upon the platform where the musicians are. He looks out over the gathering storm of animalistic faces with lips turning up underneath his mask in a smile. The musicians are playing a soft piece in the background, which start to build to an eye catching roar before the playing comes to an abrupt end.

310 The raven masked fellow, presumably the Duke of Gemecitta underneath there, lofts a hand toward the gathering crowd. "Good evening! I welcome you once again to the Menagerie for the 2nd Masquerade Ball. I wanted to thank every one of you for attending, as the Lodge of Petrichor will flourish from your support. Tonight, is all about the Lodge! But it's also about dancing and having a good time. There's to be a dance off, some modeling as we get to the best dressed, and of course some various raffles and things - you know how this goes! But we'll start off tonight with a song from a very talented Whisper, a member of the Bard's College, and renowned in her own right. But for now, remains a mystery!" He gestures for the said Whisper to rise to the stage.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask moves to the feline after a bit, and lifts up a hand to wave a bit, "Your mask looks like the same maker as mine," he mentions, while he looks to the drink. His voice is adjusted to sound different than usual.

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask turns quickly when red-tailed hawk finds a glass of wine. His mouth purses together into a line and he looks around quickly until he can find the source of these drinks. Once he does, he plucks it off of the plate and nudges her to the campfire area with the perches. "What do you think about over there or... the kitchen?"

Someone wearing The Visage of the Midnight Raven is clearly one of the hosts for the evening as the raven-esque figure stands upon the platform where the musicians are. He looks out over the gathering storm of animalistic faces with lips turning up underneath his mask in a smile. The musicians are playing a soft piece in the background, which start to build to an eye catching roar before the playing comes to an abrupt end.
The raven masked fellow, presumably the Duke of Gemecitta underneath there, lofts a hand toward the gathering crowd. "Good evening! I welcome you once again to the Menagerie for the 2nd Masquerade Ball. I wanted to thank every one of you for attending, as the Lodge of Petrichor will flourish from your support. Tonight, is all about the Lodge! But it's also about dancing and having a good time. There's to be a dance off, some modeling as we get to the best dressed, and of course some various raffles and things - you know how this goes! But we'll start off tonight with a song from a very talented Whisper, a member of the Bard's College, and renowned in her own right. But for now, remains a mystery!" He gestures for the said Whisper to rise to the stage.

:'s eyes look over to Gilded Ocelot, giving them a little grin behind the mask as he leans against the railing of the exibit, smiling to them. "I love your costume. It's pretty cute," he says back to the person, waving his hand to them. "I love ocelots, they are adorable."

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask arrives balanced on her toes, testament to the excitement felt at the vista arrayed before her. So much colour! So much spectacle! Fashion! Drama! Flirting! Renewed composure is gained by supplying herself with a flute of something to drink from a tray-- the actual choice of drink not even glanced at, just taken. It is held only rather than sipped from as the fawn plunges into the crush with every intention of /mingling/. "Hello! Oh hello. Excuse me, was that your tail? Apologies!"

Someone wearing an opaline river clam mask laughs, loud and carefree, at the passing otter. "Oh, no, please! Surely another glass of wine will sate your appetite more than I should," she teases as the critter passes her by.



"Lets not sit, not yet," says the other well dressed and unfairly cute otter as she looks around at the sea of masked faces. "Lets do a walk around first, see if we can guess who anyone is," she murmurs, a smile of pure impish delight curves her lips.

gets herself a glass of mead and takes a delicate sip as she listens to the song.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask approaches the stage and saunters up. She smooths her dress and gives her hair a toss before she brings her chin up and begins to sing, her gaze behind her mask haughty. So she's opening an evening. She seems sure enough of herself.

"If I didn't want you, would I cry your name out loud?
And curse it as I wander into this madding crowd
And if I didn't need you, why do you run right through my veins?
Savage and so dangerous, you linger and remain"

The song grows more plaintive, but carries an undercurrent of ferocity as well. The singer rests her hand on her chest, fingertips brushing the keyhole of her gown. She continues singing.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask glances in the direction her companion points, taking a sip off the wine before she nods, "That's fine." She replies, letting her eyes drift around, nose wrinkling faintly, "Are there more people here this time than the last one?"

Someone wearing The Visage of the Midnight Raven drops SCENE SET.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a silken mask of shimmering butterfly wings drifts along the laid-out carpet in a slow, restrained pace that allows the tumble of living and aeterna flowers to glissade down her train. Undulating ripples send the cloak trembling in a foaming opalescence, the thousand shades plucked from nature's primordial palate caught in relentless motion. Passing a server, slim fingers reach to pluck a flute of something liquid and tasteful before venturing -- unsurprisingly -- for a garden.

Someone wearing a detailed seasilk and feather owl mask with a draping cowl moves to stand at the outdoor kitchen area, speaking to the woman in the mouse mask for a moment. Then he peers to look around the party once more, searching for that particular someone.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask makes as if to nip at the woman in quartz's fingertips and says, "WAtch the fingers..." He then hmms, and looks around. "Well...I think the stag and doe exhibit is probably best." And he leads her over there.

Someone wearing a black widow spider mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a black widow spider mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask picks up SCENE SET.

Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird glides in, pausing for a moment to admire the fine collection of creativity and the staggering number of people occupying the large area. accompanying the him a woman dressed in an elegant silk mask with peridots and emeralds, with an equally flattering outfit to match.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask steps out onto the fields, escorted by a rather striking figure. The sad-faced one is wood and dark burlap, looking like a frowning stump. She's short, too, which helps the look. But on her arm, there's a woman in a magpie mask, draped in blue seasilk, looking rather terribly gorgeous. The pair make there way in, the stump jingling faintly as she goes, and then stops to look at the sea of masks. "Oh, geez..." she murmurs aside.

Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask drops SCENE SET.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask makes her way through the gossamer curtains and into the transformed fields. Her movements are as graceful as the very critter she is meant to represent in her ornate butterfly mask, leaving only her lips and chin to view. A smile spreads upon her lips as she takes in the decor before moving deeper into the party itself and looking for a place to flit to.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask nods to his rompmate. It's true, otters shine most on the move, or napping adorably, or doing all the cute things otters do. As the singer mounts the stage, he stops where he is, somewhere between giraffe viewing platform and campfire.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask steps out of the ferocious beasts entryway and stops when he sees the room, standing stiff and straight backed, as if uncomfortable in the flamboyant garb he is wearing. Running his hands over the front of the suit to flatten it out he turns to the mysterious moon behind him, takes her hand and continues into the room. Speaking in a West Oathlander accent he says to his companion, "Packed. We should maybe find a place to stand before people start having to share space in the animal pens."

2 House Velenosa Guards have been dismissed.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask finds herself a place to stand, taking up a glass of wine as a servant passes her by. She looks towards the singer with interest, though allows her eyes to flit about.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask sings,

"And if I didn't want you, would I arrive outside your door?
Bent but still unbroken, love, crying out for more, more, more!"

She's belting the song out now, her voice soaring with every 'more', her head tilted back. She raises her slender arms, only to bring them down again in a caress. Her eyes close as she sings her confession:

"I'm an animal, in a midnight summer heat
I slay my prey and lay my body down at your precious feet
You've got the power, darling, and I'm your trusted queen!
Give me the stars, give me the sun and all that lies between!
I'm an animal for you, I'm an animal for you
For you, for you, for you..."

There's almost something sweet about her voice as she sings the last words. Resigned, perhaps, to being tamed. Kind of. For one person, anyway.

('Animal' by Denis Leary with very minor changes, please don't sue.)

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn accepts the wolf's escort toward a spot to get a glass of wine, pauses to enjoy the spectical of the new arrivals and then wanders along with the spider and wolf as a quiet spoken conversation between them continues.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies claims a glass of something cool and rich-bodied before starting the social prowl around the area, eyes drifting from one place to another. Sipping delicately at her claimed drink, she decides to head towards the viewing platform, joining the smaller crowd there.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing silk mask with peridots and emeralds has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask is so dazed by all the masks and the crush of people that it takes her several moments, slightly confused moments, to respond to the suggestion of food. Or Drink. Possibly both. "Lets," she agrees. "I think a few good drinks will either make this better or worse, but either way, lets!"

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz slinks along behind the elk after the snarling and playful bite, tilting her head to watch the crowd with open curiousity as she leans into his side and threads her fingers within his to not be separated by the growing crowd.

takes another sip of her mead

Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask's arm is tucked through her tree-stump companion. "Oh good gods," she murmurs back as she draws up short, stopping her date with her. This is a security nightmare." She blinks around at the crowd. "Well, I suppose it's not my problem, for tonight," she says, dubious. "Should we get a drink or something? Maybe we should find a place to sit."

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 56 higher.

Someone wearing a silken mask of shimmering butterfly wings has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a silken mask of shimmering butterfly wings has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

From the Giraffe Viewing Platform, there seems to be a spider waving and trying to get the attention of a bird that has just arrived, standing next to a blackthorn bush and spirit wolf-masked man.

Hmmm? The charming otter is entranced by the singer's song and he whoops at the finish, clapping loud. Taller than his adorable companion, he tips up on toes to peer over the crowd, "There." Offering his crooked elbow to link... it's time to gambol over to food! And drink! Oh! Was that something shiny?!

Someone wearing a crow mask slips into the party, swirling the dark silks he wears with a touch of dramatics, to enhance to illusion of black feathers. He seeks to acquire a glass of wine for himself, first and foremost. Once he's gotten it, he noses it beneath the beak of his mask and just takes in the room. The swirl of color and faux-animals and general mystique. The song earns a soft chuckle, and he attempts to navigate the crowd to one of the exhibits, where he can tuck himself away from teh press of it all a little.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask walk-dances into the whimsical garden, and she is gold indeed; her shining blouse of sparkling silk encrusted with sprinkles of actual flaked gold. Though her mask is blue: an exaggerated version of a Marin'alfar elf, skin turqouise with silk-and-coral hair, fishy lips big and wide and flanked by dangling gills that shake about sillily when she moves. A wandering hand plucks free a flower from a nearby maypole, and she twirls it in her hand as she strolls through the colorful field. She pauses then, glancing up to the figure in the Ornate, Silver Wolf Mask -- "Ah, a wolf in the garden," she quips out, a breeze of a hand swishing back her fake hair of silken thread. "And... You've brought your blade," she can't help but notice, eyes settled upon the wolfish hilt. "It's a mad house in here," she comments with a puff of air, "I do hope you won't need to use that."

looks around the room from where she sits at her table wondering if they arrived but how would anyone know in this chaos. Instead she looks back at those she has joined.

Someone wearing a crow mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask considers a moment, then clears her throat. "I don't have a mouth hole. You can get a drink, though," she says, nodding a few times. "But... looks like we're dancing?" she asks, with a bright smile.

Someone wearing a black widow spider mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird has joined the line.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a silken mask of shimmering butterfly wings has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask applauds her appreciation of the singer, making her way slowly through the growing throng of people.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask is clapping along as well once the song is over, that happy smile on her face is one of awe as well. "I so wish I could sing," she sighs out these words as she links one arm with the other otter. "Mead! I'll be there's mead. We should find some and liberate some inappropriate quantities," ever the planner of shenanigans.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask proves capable of juggling a drink and applauding by doing just that with the conclusion of the singer's songs. Barely visible beneath the long nose of her mask is a grin. But with the pronouncement nearby of there being a dance contest, something like dismay enters the little deer's posture. Smoothing down the shreds of her gown with one hand and sliding high onto her toes again, she looks about for anyone still in need of a partner.

Someone wearing an upended water pail with two eye holes gouged out and crudely drawn cat whiskers arrives and nearly bumps into a server, but turns quick to avoid the crash. The sudden turn has his mask twisting on his head so the eye hold no longer line up with his eyes and he has to spend a moment reaching his hands up to readjust before scanning the room.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask says, aloud, "Oh my, we need a partner to dance. My interpretative solo lament on memory and being all alone in the moonlight will have to wait."

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask gives the area around them another swift assessment and replies, "Yes, I definitely think that there are." When she agrees with the direction, he leads them in that direction, sipping wine along the way. He untangles his arm long enough so he can wrap it around her waist and pull her closer as they duck past one particularly busy area. "Oh, are we dancing this time? We should. Even if we do lose every time."

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask's lips curve up into a smile at the applause, though it's slight. She offers a bow and straightens up again. Right. Where was that drink?

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a black widow spider mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask turns to stare into the sad face mask. "Oh," she says after a moment of consideration. "That's true." Her head cocks to the side in an expression that could be concern but who knows because her face is covered and it's impossible to tell which way she's wrinkling her nose. "Try not to suffocate." She looks to the dancing. "Are you asking me to dance?"

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Soot, a gray foxhound puppy, Violet, a shopkeeper, 1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant, 3 Iron Guardsmen arrive, following Petal.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask flashes a smile, which is totally unseen. Maybe it shows in her eyes? "Would you please join me in a dance, Miss Magpie?" she asks.

"We can if you want." Red-tailed haw replies, glancing down at her companions feet, then back up at him, "Are you certain that your poor toes are going to be able to take the abuse? I haven't gotten any better at dancing, I'm afraid."

Applause breaks out for the Whisper on stage! And it seems to be the cue for the dance off. The host steps forward, "We'll get right into the swing of things. And for those of you who are sitting this one out, start to check out all the masks and gowns tonight. We'll be having a best dressed and you, the audience, gets to vote!" He takes a breath and stands off to the side, before explaining, "The rules are simple! Judges will be going around and tapping you on the shoulder after the music begins. If you are 'tapped' on the shoulder, you're effectively out. The rest of the dancers continue until there is one couple left standing! Prizes will be given to the top five teams this year! I've got some wonderful donations given by numerous people, so I hope you brought your dancing shoes!"

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask was right beside feline talking to her, and shrugs a bit, "I could dance if you want to," he offers, trying to look and see if anyone else offered.

Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

an elegant snowy owl, Lystra, Morigan leave, following Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask.

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask beams, which is also totally unseen. But maybe it shows in HER eyes. "I'd be delighted to, Miss --" She cuts off to squint at the sad faced person. "What ARE you?"

Pellinor, Honey Snuggle, a Velenosian Angora cat arrive, following Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx.

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask ducks his head and laughs, "Yes, I'm sure. I think that once a year I can spare letting you step on my toes. They're sturdy enough and you're light." He turns them away from the place they were going to sit and instead, they head to the dance floor! This will be fine.

Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask offers his arm to the clam. "Ah, but as I said already, within the clam is the most beautiful of gifts." comes the response. "And I am just as terrible. But the attempt is worth the moment." The offer made, and should the clam accept, he'll warn. "I'd watch out for that otter though, it looks hungry." His tone is warm and teasing.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn has joined the line.

Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing Peacock Mask is just wading his way through the crowd of people, the beak of his mask flicking back and forth as he moves his whole head about to look around. He reaches behind him with his left hand, bunching up the ridiculous tail feather fan that rises up from his belt so that he might slip through the masses easier.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask perks up at the clearing of the dance floor. "Dancing!" With a plate full of deliciousness, the taller of the otters wolfs down his plate and washes it with a glass of, "Oh, that's good!" He peers after the server and the tray hoping for more, but... ALAS, the server is gone in the press of feathers and fronds. He takes a moment to preen whiskers of crumbs and extends a hand palm-up, playfully to his partner. "Take a romp?"

Someone wearing a dual-faced silvery white mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask continues to flit about the party, not finding anyplace to settle just yet. She sweeps by the refreshments and lifts a glass of wine to enjoy as she enjoys the atmosphere of the party and everyone's masks. Arriving alone, she doesn't enter the dancing contest but does sway a bit as she walks to the music that plays.

The petite woman wearing that white mask of an infamous feline and a dress that reveals probably more than enough, strides into the menagerie with shoulwers square and raw seasilk fluttering in her wake. She starts to prowl around the grounds, blue eyes landing sharply on those who get in her way.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask stares back, with a big frown, and big, big dark eyes behind the holes in the mask. "I'm a dead tree. And very morose about the whole affair." Then she takes the Magpie's hand and pulls her off to the dance floor. Despite being nearly half a foot shorter, she'll be taking the lead, and showing no qualms about Of course, the dancing will take place near the flower garden. Because it's pretty.

an elegant snowy owl, Lystra, Morigan arrive, following Isidora.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask laughs, finishing her glass of wine and setting the empty glass down somewhere as she is guided out towards the dancefloor, "I promise you, perhaps for the tenth anniversary I'll learn to dance at least one dance properly. I promise."

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn nods as she talks over matters slowly with a few of the costumed people then rises and makes her way over to join the line for those intending to dance.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask has joined the line.

an elegant snowy owl, Lystra, Morigan leave, following Isidora.

Aiden gets a gold tendril ring displaying a silk-winged monarch butterfly from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden gets an archery thumb ring of champagne silver and stygian from useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask smiles, her masked head giving a cock to her side at the ornate-masked wolf, gaze shifting from him to the bull and then back again. "If I had payed attention to my tutors more, perhaps I'd be able to pin your house based off all that wolf-y attire." She lifts a skinny finger, letting it tap thoughtfully against her chin. She gives a nervous look to the stumbling man with a bucket on his head as he walks into a pole, and she looks back up at the wolf with amusement: "Perhaps you -will- need it. It's good to know we're not -all- defenseless in this field full of anonymous strangers, mn?" A smile curls under her lips, and she gives a lazy shrug, hand snatching out a glass of bubbly pink wine from a passing servant's tray.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask deftly steals the plate from Taller Otter and sets it aside. "Absolutely!" she agrees, giving a little bit of a quick jig in place, just to make sure that the slippers will stay on. She rests her hand in his, grinning, "What could possibly go wrong," is teased with a laugh.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask notices that he isn't noted again, and then moves towards the dance competition area for now, "I don't suppose anyone would like to be my partner?" he asks, his voice a bit light and making it hard to tell who it is.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask says, "Oh." She nods solemnly. "Of course. I'm very sorry for your loss." Her hand easily captured by the dead tree with the sad face mask, she allows herself to be tugged off for dancing. "I don't really know any dances," she confides in a half-whisper. "I'll just try to follow your lead."

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies utters a delighted laugh at seeing her 'fashionably late' companion enter the party. Carefully weaving her way through the crowds towards the newly entered male Peacock, she appears at his side soon enough and smiles. "Fashionably late, I see. Isn't that supposed to be my thing? They're about to start the dancing, so let's go somewhere the dancing isn't and find ourselves something to drink."

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask drains his glass as well and drops it off somewhere along the line, leaning in to say something quietly to his dance partner just before they arrive at the floor.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey has joined the line.

Someone wearing a brillant silken phoenix mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz takes the offered hand back up from the elk, flashing a grin at him as he takes the lead into the dance floor to join in the performance.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask sweeps forwards, gown trailing, and heads straight for another cat, this one...the black feline. One cat of browns and golds, the other of midnight. They will LOOK AMAZING if nothing else. "Dance with me, meow."

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing an upended water pail with two eye holes gouged out and crudely drawn cat whiskers is obviously not the black feline in question.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask sways a bit in place, careful not to bump into anyone but observing the couples getting in line at the dance floor. She does look about, enjoying the costumes and masks, but seems one of those people to people-watch at the moment. And without escort, unless he's late. Who knows?

"Does anyone wish to dance with the Great claw of Arx?" The woman turns in spot, calling out, fingertips laden with sharp cawled fingertips. She levels a look around the room.

Someone wearing Peacock Mask has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

an elegant snowy owl, Lystra, Morigan arrive, following Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask rises, resting her soft paw in the Ocelot's hand, "I would be delighted!" She nuzzles first one cheek, then the other as she rises, careful not to dislodge either mask.

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears says, "A dance with the Claw of Arx? I'd be delighted!"

Someone wearing A feminine half-mask of silk, sparkling with pallid aqua marine and pearl has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask has to quickstep to keep up with the bull's longer stride. She is up to the task however, practically skipping along to maintain pace and to express pure, undiluted delight at this turn of evens. A light press of fingers is given to her partner's fingers and a quiet inquiry of, "Is it rude to want to crush the competition in a dance competition?" Someone is a little competitive.

Someone wearing a silver kitten mask with black opal ears has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a charming otter mask

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a wickedly decadent arachid mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask leads the Lady in Quartz to the dance floor, preparing with most of the others as well, an arm slipping around her shoulders.

Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx has joined the line.

Someone wearing a brillant silken phoenix mask is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria: Another EXTREMELY popular Menagerie Masquerade Ball!

Soot, a gray foxhound puppy, Violet, a shopkeeper, 1 Crimson Blades Lieutenant, 3 Iron Guardsmen leave, following Someone wearing a silk white wild flower the color of freshly fallen snow.

Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

"Fabulous!" The claw of arx declares, weaving through till she's near the mouse. There's a look that's just this side of hungry and she stalks around the person until settling in front of them, offering her hand. "I promise not to devour you." A glance around. "If we win."


310 The music begins and the floor starts to get flooded with eager dancers. The evenings dance starts out slow. The lead dancer of the pairings have been tapped in and given a ribbon to wear around their forearm! No last minute dancers! All the same, each lead and their partner must keep up with the beat or risk being tapped out. <OOC: Lowest score is out. +line will prompt the pair to roll. First roll difficulty 15>

The fox just moves to the line still looking for someone, but finding no one. He instead shrugs his shoulders, more than like to pick up someone random if they come by before his turn, otherwise he will pick someone random from the crowds likely.

The music begins and the floor starts to get flooded with eager dancers. The evenings dance starts out slow. The lead dancer of the pairings have been tapped in and given a ribbon to wear around their forearm! No last minute dancers! All the same, each lead and their partner must keep up with the beat or risk being tapped out. <OOC: Lowest score is out. +line will prompt the pair to roll. First roll difficulty 15>

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria.

Someone wearing NeverMore Raven Mask looks around and not having found a partner, moves to find a place to be.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask squeezes lightly against the hand-hoof?-hand of the fawn next to him, glancing back there is a light laugh let out once he realizes she's having to skip to keep up with him. Slowing his pace, he smiles radiantly from under the snout of the bull. At her murmur, he leans over some with a broad grin. "You think we should throw our shoulders around? Maybe sweep some legs?"

Caspian has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask sees the Fawn and Bull off to the dance floor and returns to the Goldfish. He looks down, attention drawn to her gesture and he winks like a quick flash of green light behind the dark silver hoods. "I do not belong to anyone or anything, that would not be very wolf-like. I suppose." He idly sips from his drink then rolls his tongue over his own canines, beneath the onyx ones. "I don't know much about fish. So I have nothing witty to say to your disguise. But you look very nice, all the same."

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask is overheard praising Aiden: The masked ball was so popular, next time we'll have to hold regionals. Only the victors shall advance to the main event!

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey leads the wine-red widowbird toward the dancefloor, offering a shallow bow to her - prior to straightening up. He smirks behind the mask, drawing the widowbird closer, "Yes, yes. All well and good. I suppose that I ought to dance with my escort. It's only PROPER."

Someone wearing an opaline river clam mask is overheard praising Aiden.

Nightshade, a tiny black kitten, dressed as a dog, 3 Rubino and Zaffria guards, Ariadne, Penelope arrive, following Dafne.

:barks and lifts his partner up by her waist, aloft over his head before dropping her down in a basket catch at the last moment as they sweep across the dancefloor. It's more an athletic display than a performance, a roll, a tumble. Their display is as much a romp as it is a dance, playful, energetic, and ending, with the two winded and clinging to eachother in laughter. With a bow and curtsy to the judges and the kind menagerie audience, the two cede the dance floor to the next in line.

Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Someone wearing an upended water pail with two eye holes gouged out and crudely drawn cat whiskers has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask laughs. "I have to be brave, after all, we are the protectors of the river and its inhabitants." the spirit points out as he leads the clam out to the floor to let them practice, even if they may be both terrible at dancing.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask purrs. "Ohhhh, role playing as well. I love it, adorable pussy you. " Pink lips blow a kiss in the air and the fairly strong-for-a-cat Ocelot almost at once takes up the lead, comfortably.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 7 lower.

Someone wearing NeverMore Raven Mask has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 28 higher.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask considers (far too seriously) the matter of shoulder-throws or foot-sweeps. "We'd probably be disqualified for interference," she reasons as she fits herself into place before the bull, unengaged hand lifting to his shoulder. "Which means in order to crush them, we need to outdance them! Don't be afraid to lift or toss me, I'm sturdier than I look."

Late is fashionable, right? A small woman, bat-masked, and clad in a daring black dress with a feathered collar that sweeps behind her like wings, sweeps in, and glances about to take stock of the masked faces. A small kitten wearing dog ears follows behind her, giving a wide berth to larger animals.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask gives the wooden sad faced tree stump's armband and admiring pat, and then settles into proper dancing posture. Or what she assumes is proper dancing posture - she might glance at the other couples just to DOUBLE CHECK. Whatever she's saying to her dance partner is too quiet to carry.

Someone wearing a silver squid mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a silver squid mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Meanwhile as the dance starts to carry on and couples look already to be struggling with the slow twine of music that pushes them into a carole, there's slips of paper being passed out. Votes are being asked for the best dressed. Afterall, the dancing will continue until one couple is left standing - no breaks for the dancers! It's a seamless flow of costume and dancing shoes!
n

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird

Someone wearing a seasilk and silk squid mask with eight tendril arms has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a seasilk and silk squid mask with eight tendril arms has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Someone wearing silk mask with peridots and emeralds checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask sniffs at the contents of her glass before taking another sip of the pale, carbonated wine. "I suppose not. Though, wolves do travel in packs. Especially when they're hungry." A mild moment of pause. "I should know." She lifts her glass in cheers to the silvered wolf, before her lips can be seen splitting a grin beneath the mouth hole of her Marin'alfar mask. "Elf fish," she corrects, her finger coming up to smack at a dangling gill, letting it wobble. "Now that I think about it, perhaps wearing a Marin'alfar mask to a masquerade with an 'animal' theme is offensive. Nn..."

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz allows the less graceful but still poised elk to lead her around the dance floor, flashing her most beguiling grin from under her mask. "It's not a forest and trees, but you must learn to sway a little.."

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask moves onto the dance floor with his partner, the red-tailed hawk. He seems to be deeply involved in a quiet conversation with her, one that's got him laughing at least and pressing his mouth to her ear affectionately.

Look for best dressed! WHISPER Aiden for votes now! Votes will be taken for the next 30min

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask is not trained in dance, by any means, but he's extremely dextrous and can just -move-. He smiles down at his partner, which is only easy for her to see due to his mask. "Let's see how this goes, hm?"

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask is light on her feet, and mercifully light to lift and tote, even if she doesn't have all the grace that her partner has, she is laughing herself silly by the time they're done in front of the judges. She is happy to move at a slower pace as the dance out of the way for the next couple to get their turn.

Turn in line: Someone wearing wooden sad face mask

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey nods, offering an apologetic dip of his head toward the widowbird, "I apologize for stepping on your foot ahead of time, my dear Widowbird. Please - don't ruffle your feathers quite so terribly at me for I did warn you ahead of time."

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 33 higher.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Laughing the young woman nods, "That sounds like a good idea. I do not promise to be terribly good at this, but hopefully we won't make a mess of it." Slipping her hand in her partner's she allows him to lead.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask continues to move about, sipping at her wine while politely engaging in some idle chatter with those she passes.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 40 higher.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask is following Blackthorn dressed woman's lead and while she is in costume he is certainly not, looks like a Halfshav judging from the coat and the Sword and look he didn't murder anyone with his lumbering steps!

Turn in line: Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask

Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 8 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask leans against what she thought was a statue of one of the animals in the menagerie. When it moves, she exclaims, "Oh, I am so sorry! I thought you were inanimated." embarrassed, she ducks off to find somewhere else to land.

Someone wearing an opaline river clam mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 1 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn dances elegantly with her partner, each step placed percisely. She gives a little smile, keeping the spines of her costume from snaging any of the animals in the dancing crowd.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask nervously leads moon away from the giraffe viewing area, down to where people are having the dance off. "Well," he says uncertainly, "here goes nothing." Taking the moon by her hand, he walks into the press, turns to the moon and then just stands there, waiting for the music to get to a place where he feels comfortable dancing to it. He waits. And waits. Ruefully to his partner he says, "I hate dancing." Then he takes a deep breath, puts an arm around her waist and does an awkward box step. Under his breath he whispers, "One two three, one two three..."

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask checked stamina + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

6 King's Own Guardsmen have been dismissed.

:leads the clam across the field and he may be heard laughing. "I don't think we're going to be tripping at least?" he asks in mild amusement. And then his voice lowers to speak with the woman he's dancing with.

Jeeves, a sophisticated valet arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx before departing.

Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

slips into a seat on a wooden perch enjoying the campfire.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 2 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 35 higher.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 26 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 higher.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 30 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask's dancing isn't so terribly terrible this year, she hasn't stepped on the snow owl's feet. Yet. There is always time still, and she certainly doesn't glide as elegantly as her partner does.

That awkward box step speeds up into an elegant waltz. "Oh," says the man in a sun mask, "I guess I do know how to dance!"

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask flits about the Ocelot, kicking her heels and circling with taunting excitement.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 42 higher.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing dappled fawn mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 97 higher.

Someone wearing a crow mask has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Immediate whistles and sounds of awe come from the audience watching as someone wearing a dappled fawn mask seems to steal the show!! And while pairs aren't tapped out yet, the song is getting near it's end.

Someone wearing an upended water pail with two eye holes gouged out and crudely drawn cat whiskers has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask follows the lead of the man in the sun mask as if they were often entwined in this sort of dance. The moon following the sun around the floor from an awkward box step to a graceful twirl between the other dancers, "You've certainly gotten better in the last two minutes," she notes.

The Ocelot may swirl about the floor, but the black feline is even more graceful. The two of them together though is a blur of silk gowns, twining with each other as the two of them keep with the rhythm quite well.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 19 higher.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 49 higher.

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask bites back on something before replying quietly to the hawk, tipping his head from side to side before continuing. He may not be the best dancer, but he's doing okay and doesn't look as if he'll fall over at any point. But there are some far greater dancers here.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask finds a small out of the way corner where she begins to dance to the music alone, swaying and turning slowly to set the butterflies on her skirts aflight as she moves to the music. There is an elegance about her dance, as if it is second nature to her.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask is doing his very, very best when the dancing begins. The large form of the bull starts to lead the fawn around, the bull is not afraid to pull off some more complex moves. There are times when the far smaller figure of the fawn is lifted into the air or twirled into a jump, but while he does a good job he is only a frame to the beautiful picture the fawn turns out to be. They flow around the dance floor with an occasional stunt, and no one gets shoulder bashed or leg-kicked.

Jeeves, a sophisticated valet arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx before departing.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey is ... as he promised ... a mediocre dancer. He doesn't manage to outshine the widowbird in any way, which allows her shine.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers takes to the dance floor with the Osprey, twirling in the lush layers of her gown as she steps in close. She just laughs when he proves only middling on the dance floor, but her grace and charm hopefully make up for it. A bit.

Someone wearing Forest Rivers Spirit Mask has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing midnight ebon mysterious bat mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

As the music cues down, preparing to begin another more foot stomping and leg prancing... It would appear the Charming Otter Mask gets a tap on the shoulder!

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask trails laughter in her wake as she's spun about and turned and lifted. Each vault from the floor is helped with seamless jumps to spare the bull some of her weight, each move flowing from one to the next and the next with flutters of silk and liquid poise. The trick is in always keeping lifted toes pointed, and fingers curled when extended, apparently.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask is laughing as she sees that they are about to be tapped to leave the dance floor. With a cheeky grin she gives a nod, links one arm with her Otter partner in crime and leads the way off. But instead of just walking she does a bit of a soft-shoe routine, while walking, and tugs her partner along until they clear the floor and the dancing, more skilled, throng. To the refreshment table they are headed.

Someone wearing a stunningly sensual mask a fire and ice dragon that flows down the cheeks in metallic hues has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Couples are given a few moments to shake out their legs before the next song arises. It certainly has more of a jig vibe to it but requires a bit more fancy foot work to satisfy those judges. Two couples will be tagged out this time!! The musicians up at center stage encourage the dancers on, stomping their boots to the rhythm. Aiden, since he's pushed his mask up on his forehead, starts to clap in time. <OOC: difficulty at 20. Vote for best dressed! 15 min left>

Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 29 higher.

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask moves to do his part of the dance and his partner that he just picked out of the crowd isn't wonderful with it. He himself seems to be doing well though, and he has his fun with it either way.

Turn in line: Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx

Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 49 higher.

It's an otter's exuberance that makes it charming and adorable. And it is with exuberance that the otter pair make their shuffling exit, one last twirl, and then there is food to find! The taller otter, laughs and slings his arm around the smaller otter's waist, squeezing her close and then murmuring, with fingers pointed at various locales.

There's approving looks cast toward the individual in the Stygian mask and a few fingers pointed at the goldfish, early crowd favorites by the murmuring and appreciative tones.

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 9 lower.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 10 higher.

Someone wearing an opaline river clam mask moves back to her seat, with her partner having surpringly turned and left in the middle of the competiton. She warms herself by the fire and gets another stiff drink poured. Yummy!

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 2 lower.

Someone wearing silk mask with peridots and emeralds checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 4 lower.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask nudges at a wild lock of trapped blonde that's creeping out from the left eye hole of her mask, fingertip trying to urge it back under. "Such pretty words," she chirps, smiling at the wolf's analogy. "It was not just one wolf." She swirls her sparkling rose wine, ripples of liquid dancing at the edges of the glass before she sips, "It was a pack. And it wasn't much of a garden; more of a forest." Her head tilts from shoulder to shoulder, and then she gives a shrug. "Alas, not all beautiful things are peaceful things. You can't always guarantee that a walk in the woods will be as lovely as it sounds. And... Oh." Her head perks up at the attention, and she gives a fluttery-fingered wave of vanity.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz seems content to dance with elk at a slow, sedate pace, mostly because she's got her hands glued to those tight breeches and keeps squeezing it adoringly.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask continues to spin the woman in the quartz mask around, letting her feathers flare out a bit. He does catch hs heel though, with a slight stumble, but he does continue onward, her grace helping him ... well, not miss too many steps.

Turn in line: Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird

Someone wearing the visage of a dark bird checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 8 higher.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

The Claw of Arx moves the pink eared mouse around, smoothing over that hiccup on the dance steps, the seasilk fluttering as if it was fur as they go. The pair seeming to be murmuring as ruby red lips move but nothing audible is heard.

Turn in line: Someone wearing wooden sad face mask

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask GM Roll checked dexterity(5) at difficulty 20, rolling 5 higher.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing wooden sad face mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 72 higher.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies is in full conversation with her companions at the outdoor kitchen, but whispers reach her ears and have her turning towards the crowds. She lets a mischevious smile curl at her lips, lifting her glass towards the people in silent toast to them. Looking back to her companions, she laughs at something said and continues conversing.

The crowd spots the display of dancing prowess by the Wooden Sad Face Mask. There's excited murmurings and whistles for the pair.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 26 higher.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 16 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask

Someone wearing a charming otter mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 9 lower.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask snags a pair of glasses from one of the tables, fills both to the precarious point of almost spilling, then passes on to her partner, snags a plate that's laden with finger food that looks delightful and balances it all as they find a place to sit to watch the rest of the competition.

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask checked stamina + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 1 lower.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 54 higher.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 36 higher.

Once again the Blackthorn adorned woman leads and the Spirit wolf masked man manages to follow. Some might hear a voice idly counting, "And one-two-three and one-two-three" while moving along. Only sometimes though and only when they do a twirl!

Turn in line: Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 0 higher.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 20 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask is so wrapped up in his conversation with the hawk that he steps on his partner's toes, quickly apologizing. The way he's tipping his head at her makes it seem as if he has some question.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 49 higher.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 41 higher.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask was doing good! Was. Evidently she is only able to continue doing well for so long, because now she's killing her poor dancing companions feet by stomping all over them like she was wishing they were grapes. Plus, she's obviously too distracted by their quiet conversation to keep track of his toes.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask is just a stump with a frown! But apparently she can dance? And while the beautiful magpie is certainly that, it's the woman in the wooden frowny face mask that's twirling and dipping and moving with rather a lot of grace. Thankfully, the magpie keeps up!

Turn in line: Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 36 higher.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 2 higher.

The Ocelot has to use one hand to toss back long, black curls, keep the furry cloak out of the way, and somehow not step on either the golden brown dress, or the black one. Its a lot of dress dodging to go with this fancy footwork. Though the kitty is concentrating on the feline partner, laughing in a tenor voice, dark eyes glance around, possibly trying to figure out who the people behind the masks are, since they are being judged by them. "My dear, you are brilliant at this! Keep it up, beautiful, and you will get us a prize. I cannot apologize for choosing skill at fashion over skill at dancing." There's a chocolate-colored wink.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn spins and whirls in her partner's arms, the dainty flowers on her slippers seeming to drift gracefully with some of the steps and the vines trailing up her legs and arms seeming to move as if in a breeze. She bends and moves in a way that helps her partner seem to be quite capable all in all.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask prances, working her feet back and forth across her own path deftly.

Someone wearing Peacock Mask shrugs a little but then gestures with a sweep of his wine holding hand. "I suppose I'd follow you where ever you wanted to mingle, if you're comfortable moving about the place with me and this clumsy tail."

As the music picks up, so to does the sudden skill of the man in the gleamin rays of the sun mask. "My feet are moving by themselves, Moon. Would you believe I'd never danced before in my life?" He scoops her into his arms and swings her around. As much as the press allows, at least, the pair energetic and agile in their moves.

The judges start making their way around the dance floor. They stop at two Leads: stunning red-tailed hawk mask and the visage of a dark bird. Both leads are tapped and thanked for their efforts, drinks offered on the sidelines!

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask continues to dance with the Fawn. There is more spinning, more flowing, more lifting. The bull and the dawn continue along with grace and skill, moving like the tide across the dancefloor, ebbing and flowing. While they're not quite as fantastical as they were the first round, they're still putting in quite a show, though still, no one has been crushed just yet. There is a moment where the bull twirls the fawn into his chest and there is a deep and prolonged dip of the fawn, just inches from the floor, before the bull hoists her back up and back at it they go.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask arches just to and extends an arm backwards, letting her splayed fingertips almost brush the floor itself. A stretch too far, or almost so, because she has to press that same hand to her mask as she's righted. The almost-loss of mask provokes more laughter, complementing the bubble and hum of the music as she's swept off into another intricate series of steps-- for herself, as she traipses around the bull in skipping, flowing orbit before she's reclaimed in a close tuck of arms.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask might be half a step behind her partner in the sad face mask, but she's keeping up! She's light on her feet, and her movements are graceful, even if her feet aren't always quite sure where they're supposed to GO.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask smiles up at the sun as he spins her about, "I'm not sure I would, I've been burned by you before." She keeps up with his footwork, but perhaps not his enthusiasm, her cerulean eyes on his face to watch for cues as to what the next complicated series of movements will be.

Someone wearing Peacock Mask has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing Peacock Mask has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask laughs as he and his partner are tapped out. He talks to her about something quietly before leaning in for a kiss that's maybe a bit much for public displays of affection. And then after a moment, they'll move off of the dance floor and back to the campfire, likely securing some more glasses of wine along the way. Several glasses.

The music will get increasingly difficult to keep a step with, which is the idea. There's now nine couples left on the dance floor - it has thinned out considerably since the beginning! "Keep those dance toes going ladies and gentlemen! The prizes I have tonight come from three well spoken of individuals. I thank them now for their donations. Guildmaster Joscelin Arterius, who donated a wonderful gold pendant set with black tourmaline, gold earrings, and a 5000 silver voucher to get a crafted item. As well, it would seem that Master Oliver Arterius has donated a specially crafted Seasilk jacket with sharktooth buttons for the event, and very unique shark maw satchel. I also want to thank Mistress Valey who donated a unique perfume to the event, and Seraph Ailith who crafted a archer's thumb stygin ring. Now! Back to it! We can't stop the music!" <OOC: Difficulty @25>

Turn in line: Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask

Aiden gets an unremarkable belt pouch from useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 26 higher.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask continues with his dance from before while changing it up, and seems to be doing wonderful with it, even if he has a partner that can't do too much. Still, he is still having fun.

Aiden drops an unremarkable belt pouch.

Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Stojan, the assistant, 3 Thrax Guards arrive, following Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth.

All the leads who had already been tapped, are being visited by the gifting fairy! No really, there's servants who have little wings on their backs and they're approaching with a pouch of scents! Each "Lead" can take one for their efforts in the dance so far.

Turn in line: Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx

Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 11 higher.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask is overheard praising Aiden: To quote a squid 'a resplendent affair.'

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask doesn't seem bothered by the bit much, returning the kiss before they are off to watch the rest, and find the wine once again.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask

Someone wearing silk mask with peridots and emeralds gets a black glass bottle with purple accents from an unremarkable belt pouch.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 26 higher.

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 3 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing wooden sad face mask

Someone wearing a charming otter mask gets A simple bottle with a woody, spicy perfume from an unremarkable belt pouch.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 23 higher.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 18 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask has joined the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz drifts along a bit slower with the elk now, humming along with the music and letting him lead so long as her toes don't get stepped on or her feathers ruffled.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 40 higher.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 11 lower.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 28 higher.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 20 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 3 higher.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 8 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 41 higher.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 4 higher.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 2 higher.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask gets a golden bottle with lilac accents labeled 'hers' from an unremarkable belt pouch.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 9 higher.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask locks eyes with the person int he ocelot mask, and with deliberate motions and care almost leads them through a complex of moves.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey checked charm + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 81 higher.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn manages to dance in a lovely manner. She gives a gracious nod to her partner who seems to have a bit of difficulty following her along and pauses to make sure he is alright, moving to avoid getting in the way of the other dancers.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask isn't the dancing power in the duo with the Blackthorn woman so while she covers up he may have stepped on someones foot, luckily not his escort for the evening. One of the onlookers though, maybe just a servant!

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask just dances. Dance dance. Yay! We're talking like 28 higher than 25 worth of dancing here.

Two things happen during this round! The awes and applause turns to the person in the a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey mask, remarking about how they look to be simply soaring over the dance floor... and the other is the tap outs. The Great Claw of Arx mask wearing dancer and Gilded Ocelot Mask wearing lead both get tap outs. That leaves the dance floor down to SEVEN! There is no break this time, the music simply proceeds into something even more complex than the last! Can the dancers keep going? <OOC Difficulty @ 30>

Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a stunning red-tailed hawk mask leaves, following Someone wearing a white and gold snow owl mask.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 14 higher.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask gasps. "An Oliver design?! Sharktooth buttons?! The man speaks to my heart! Now my lovely, we cannot fail! There is a new coat at stake!" Cries Ocelot in the middle of the fevered dance. Ohhh, the elegant cat is trying, long curls bobbing furiously in time as slippers attempt to match the pace of the black Feline. There is a melodious laughter and a hand goes to the glittering mask to keep it on. Alas, at that moment, Ocelot feels the tap on the shoulder and super pouts.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers seems to be focusing a bit more on her conversation with her Osprey dance partner than the dance, sometimes whispering, sometimes laughing aloud, but she's still graceful as they move across the dance floor with flourishes and twirls. There's a moment where they pause amid the music, and possibly amidst all the sea of dancers there's a kiss, and then the dance goes on.

Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask lifts the ocelot's chin, "Thank you for dancing with me," she says. Rising on tip toes, she mimes a kiss in the masks.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask continues with his dancing and all that, then moves to shift to the side and nods a bit, satisfied. He seems to be doing well enough, at the least. His partner at this point is just walking with him.

Turn in line: Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx

The claw of Arx turns to the one who taps them out, hissing displeasure at their elimination.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 10 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing wooden sad face mask

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask kisses right back and bows. "The pleasure was mine, my mysterious kindred soul. I look forward to seeing who my new darling friend is at the unmasking." A wink comes, then the Ocelot returns to where they were before.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 38 higher.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 13 lower.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 32 higher.

Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx gets a cherry blossom shaped bottle from an unremarkable belt pouch.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 11 lower.

Crow - Thraxian Steward arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx before departing.

Rodrigo arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask before departing.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 2 lower.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 40 higher.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 40 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 19 higher.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 2 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 22 higher.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey checked charm + performance at difficulty 30, rolling 24 higher.

Someone wearing a silver squid mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a silver squid mask has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Unfortunately the judges stop by both the individual wearing the impish midnight ebon fox mask and the painted silk elk's head mask. Two more couples are asked to step back from the dance. Down to five couples, two more to be eliminated next before the final show down to claim the Masquerade Ball Dance off!

The music gets faster and the Sun and the Moon rise and fall, keeping up, no matter how crazy it gets. When the spirit takes him and the beat is right, the Sun grabs ahold of the Moon and lifts her, spinning her around before bringing her down, her heels coming up to slide between his legs, then she's pulled back up into a deep dip. "I think we just invented a new move."

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz gets a glass bottle shaped like a honeycomb from an unremarkable belt pouch.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask is tapped on his shoulder and laughs down at his dance partner, syaing, "I'm sorry that I am not as trained in dancing as I am other things. Would you like to get something to drink, and maybe some food?"

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn continues do dance, nimble footed as each round grows progressively more difficult. She glances toward her partner, her surprise showing in a little grin to see them still amid those remaining as the contest continues.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz still has one hand openly groping the back of those tight silk breeches, so she doesn't seem to mind the tap out, nodding up to the elk with a dazzling smile. "I'm dying of thirst. I should have danced with wine.."

For the couples that remain, the difficulty of the next musical feat is not because it's slow, but because there is precision required in the well known dance that's often played in Arx's very court halls, though it does have a distinct Lycene beat to it. A little hip sashay goes a long way into swaying the judges! Difficulty at 35.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask lets out a little squeal as her sad-faced partner attempts to lead her in a fancy move. The poor little magpie can't quite keep up and she trips all over herself. But sad-faced as she is, the tree stump manages to somehow rescue her and make the move look - well. Less sloppy, at least.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask dips down along with the Magpie and then scoops her back up. It was all intentional! So well done, much charisma! Anyone close can hear the sad wooden stump giggling.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask manages to barely keep up with the Blackthorn adorned woman, this time they didn't get tapped out. Why? His dangerous feet probably scared off the judges. "Do you think if you could pick me up above your head for a finale, we would just win by rote?"

A messenger comes and the claw of Arx takes it and the little box that comes with it. There's a frown reading it and then a murmur of apology to those she had moved toward before that white cat heads for the exit from the park.

Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Pellinor, Honey Snuggle, a Velenosian Angora cat leave, following Someone wearing The Great Claw of Arx.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask moves back as he is tapped, and looks around a bit as he finds a seat. He settles at it contently as he tilts his head a bit.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask

Turn in line: Someone wearing wooden sad face mask

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 2 lower.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 7 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn checked charm + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 7 higher.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 16 lower.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 23 higher.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 7 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing dappled fawn mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 66 higher.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 4 lower.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers checked charm + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 26 higher.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey checked charm + performance at difficulty 35, rolling 11 higher.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn stops mid step and looks at her partner. "Lift you? You're twice as big as me, you've got to be kidding." She is teasing, the scolding not serious as is obvious by the grin on her lips. She says "Just try is all anyone can ask, win or lose, it's fun, isn't it?

The fantastic dancing of the couple lead by wooden sad face mask and silken demi-mask of blackthorn, is finally over, as they get tapped! But they've made the final five so they're prompted not to run off for the night just yet, asked to stick around for the prizes. But, their dancing night for the competition is over! Those shoes might have holes in the soles for how on fire these couples were! Now down to the final three.

Not even the Spirit wolf's tromping boots of danger keep the judges away this time. His partner manages a pleasant enough sashay to the Lyceum beat of the music but he trundles along, trundle, bumble, stomp, step, stomp. The tap comes and he makes a *tut* sound, "Well then. Off to get drinks?"

As the sun and the moon move in perfect mechanical harmony with one another, so to do this Sun and Moon, carrying out the graceful steps of the Lycene dance with all due stiff grace. "I like I like dancing now, but it's exhausting. Does it usually go on this long?"

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask is still doing his very best. The bull and the fawn are still going at it with gusto. The bull doesn't seem tired but as the moves get more complicated, it seems he's having time with the more complicated moves of footwork. There are subtle, but quickly, recovered stumbling. Moving to the side, moving back over, trying to keep up with his partner, who continues to do flawlessly. The bull just tries to do his best to be something the fawn can swing around on to continue to display her talent.

Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing Spirit Wolf Mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Appraising looks follow the last of the dancers. With only three couples left, the dance off is coming to an end! <OOC difficulty 40>

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask has been dancing so very well! And her partner, well, look how lovely she is! But, sadly, as the sad face tries another twirl, there's another stepped-on-toe, and then comes more giggles. Maybe if the two were talking less? Or maybe if it wasn't the very short woman leading? Who knows! But soon enough, there's tap on the arm. Already full of sorrow, the sad face mask can only take one of her partner's hands, then hold it, as she turns to face whomever looks properly audience-like, and then she gives a theatrical bow, alongside her partner. "Thank you, thank you..."

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask has the footwork and the quickness needed to keep up with the fresh swell of music. And Lycene stylings? She can perform those as well, dropping her shoulder and prowling around the less agile bull with the artistry of someone who is absolutely trying to help an audience overlook a little stumbling. It isn't seemly for a prey animal to smolder but she's absolutely giving it her all.

2 House Velenosa Guards leaves, following Someone wearing a partial mask of chrysocolla and mystic quartz.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn says, "My partner had an appointment could not be broken and had to leave so the timing for being tapped out was very good.""

Turn in line: Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn

Turn in line: Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 40, rolling 23 higher.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 40, rolling 4 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 40, rolling 21 lower.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 40, rolling 14 higher.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey checked charm + performance at difficulty 40, rolling 9 lower.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers checked charm + performance at difficulty 40, rolling 9 higher.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask HAS been very deep in conversation with her sadstump partner, throughout the competition. Let's blame that for the stumbling, and not the magpie's notable lack of skill. She clings to the sad face'd tree stump's hand as she joins her in giggles, but ducks her head behind her partner at the theatrical bow. "Thank you for the dance," she tells her, sweetly.

"Is it a free for all?" The Sun grabs the Moon, looks her in the eyes and then his feet just go fucking crazy!

It comes as no surprise when the wearer of the bull mask is tapped, it looks like there was some difficulty there to keep up! And while the other team of the osprey mask is doing well, it seems some sort of trip up gets them tapped out as well! That leaves one couple left, the winners of the Masquerade Dance off! There's distinctive appreciation and applause for gleaming rays of sun mask and the matching moon mask individual! On stage, prizes are being revealed.

Aiden puts a gold tendril ring displaying a silk-winged monarch butterfly in a simple velvet bag.

Aiden puts an archery thumb ring of champagne silver and stygian in a simple velvet bag.

Aiden gets some chin-length gold chain and white feather earrings from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts some chin-length gold chain and white feather earrings in a simple velvet bag.

Aiden gets a cute bottle labeled 'Menagerie Masquerade Ball' from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts a cute bottle labeled 'Menagerie Masquerade Ball' in a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers seems a brilliantly deft dancer, particularly with those complex Lycene stylings, but she's laughing when she and the Osprey are tapped out. "We thought it was going to be you!" she calls over to the Bull and Fawn. She offers a flash of a smile and a bit of applause for the winning Sun and Moon, though.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask can move quickly and doesn't seem tired but it's clear he's just out of his depth. He does his best to support the Fawn but eventually they are called out. Hanging his horns a little bit, the man slinks his arm around the fawn's waist, and keeping her close starts to retreat from the dancefloor. "Sorry. I really wanted to crush them all."

Aiden gets a thin silver waist chain draping a spill of glass lunation from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts a thin silver waist chain draping a spill of glass lunation in a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey guides the widowbird from the dancefloor, and once he has, he drifts off -- and away. And that's all there is to that.

Aiden gets a pouch of sweet Spring tea 'Menagerie Edition' from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts a pouch of sweet Spring tea 'Menagerie Edition' in a simple velvet bag.

Aiden gets pale washes of summer dagger with etched dragonfly from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts pale washes of summer dagger with etched dragonfly in a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask tucks the flask under his arm, over at the gardens, and uses his fingers to whistle sharply toward the Bull and the Fawn. He claps for them, heartily, even in their defeat.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask gets A blue bottle with amber accents labeled 'his' from an unremarkable belt pouch.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask waves enthusiastically over to the ornate silver wolf, pumping his fist to the other man.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask is too winded to laugh but she gives the impression of such as she tosses her head and allows herself to be steered. A hand is raised in respectful acknowledgement of Widowbird and partner, and then the fortunate winners. "Just goes to show, a strong start doesn't always lead to a stunning finish! Well fought, well won!" Sotto voce to bull, she adds, "Next time, we aim for the knees."

Someone wearing a silver squid mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

"Keep my gift -- or, if you could, give it to a certain ocelot for me. Dear widowbird, it was an evening." The osprey saunters away the way he came.

Aiden drops a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask seems delighted by the turn of events and vigorously claps! Sun and Moon ARE adorable. The Ocelot alllso seems to be totally checking out the armed person in the fox mask, because that's a whole lot of...weapons. "I thought you did rather well and I was cheering for you." calls the cat's voice towards Osprey and Widowbird.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask gets an archery thumb ring of champagne silver and stygian from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask likewise raises his voice in cheering for the dancers as the competition draws to a close. "Well done!" He puts fingers to lips, whistling shrill and sharp, before resuming his clapping again. "Co-" he clears his throat, "Otter dear, if the music continues, would you take a turn with me again? A calmer turn?" They'll keep the otterishness to a minimum.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask gets a gold tendril ring displaying a silk-winged monarch butterfly from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers gets a pair of intricate gold earrings set with black tourmaline from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey gets a favor d'Atelier worth 5000 silver from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn has been named in the last group to pick from the bag so patiently waits her turn giving a smile to the host.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask gets a thin silver waist chain draping a spill of glass lunation from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask gets pale washes of summer dagger with etched dragonfly from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a leather-and-gilt mask of a citrine-eyed osprey has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

4 Ashford House Guard leaves, following Someone wearing a painted silk elk's head mask.

Aiden didn't participate in this years dance because wow, the attendance was huge! "Let's have a round of applause for our dancers this evening! There was some splendid display of athletics and stamina tonight! That was quite the performance. Well done! Prizes to be awarded I'm sure! I would like to once again thank our many sponsors and all the donations!" He grins, "Now! The most exciting part of the evening is yet to come, at least, I think so! Modeling!" He strides to the center of the stage, "One last chance to prove to the audience that YOU are best dressed! Model for the Lodge of Petrichor and who knows, it might be worth your time!" A carpet rolls out where the dancers were! "If you want to get those votes, take a strut down the carpet!" <OOC: Top prize is seasilk from Oliver! You 2 extra votes if you model something for the Lodge!>

The line has been dismissed by Aiden.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask doesn't take anything for his tapping out, having managed well with what he came about for. He considers for a moment though and gets with the line.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask has joined the line.

Aiden picks up Dance Off.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask gets an intricate gold pendant set with black tourmaline from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask gets a cute bottle labeled 'Menagerie Masquerade Ball' from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers has joined the line.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn has joined the line.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has joined the line.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn gets a pouch of sweet Spring tea 'Menagerie Edition' from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask turns her feathered face to her dancing partner. "You should go!" she urges the sad-faced tree stump. "You have the best costume, for sure," she says with a thumbs up.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a seasilk and silk squid mask with eight tendril arms has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Pawn, the courtier's apprentice arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a midnight black dragon mask before departing.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask has joined the line.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask is overheard praising Silvio: A charming dance partner.

Someone wearing silk mask with peridots and emeralds has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing an opaline river clam mask has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing A feminine half-mask of silk, sparkling with pallid aqua marine and pearl has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a detailed seasilk and feather owl mask with a draping cowl has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing A feminine half-mask of silk, sparkling with pallid aqua marine and pearl has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a detailed seasilk and feather owl mask with a draping cowl has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Turn in line: Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a charming otter mask

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask moves to then model his gloves, flexing them while he does some awesome things. He then moves on his way, satisfied with having participated!

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask walks with the fire and ice dragon towards the line of people in costumes, to show hers off, of course.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask

Turn in line: Someone wearing wooden sad face mask

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask before departing.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask stands up as her sad-faced date (honestly, some people would take it personally) moves off to display her dead tree attire, and cheers loudly. "WOOOO!"

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask scampers off from the garden to get in line to model. And when it is her turn, well. There's none of the grace she showed just moments ago on the dace floor. She walks along, entirely concealed in that dark, wood-looking burlap. She stops. She walks herself in a slow circle. Then she walks back off. Sad!

Someone wearing a charming otter mask rolls onto the stage, a shoulder roll and pops up, tugging the hem of his tunic down, before preening whiskers, jaw and chest. And what's that in his pocket? A chestnut? He fishes it out and gnaws on it, before ... what's that... another one? And another. One nearly dropped is caught and juggling begins. He catches them, one-two-three, and then bows, making another shoulder roll to exit the stage.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers before departing.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask doesn't a little twirl, all the glittering silver moons in all their phases on her dress sparkling and looking for just an instant, if one is sitting in the right place, it looks like the moons are animated, going from a new moon to crescent to full and back again. Only a quarter of her face is really visible beneath her shiny mask, but her blue eyes are bright. She moves as gracefully as she did on the dance floor, kind of like she was born to perform and command an audience, dipping a small curtsey to the crowd before turning to head back.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask slinks her way down the length of the carpet, the sinuous sway of her hips in perfect alignment with her snake-scaled dress and mask. The paper-thin praseodymium scales glisten in the light. Avians, sure. Mammals? There are plenty. Fish? Cephalopods? Yes and yes. But there is but one reptile, and that is the serpent. Coming to a halt at the end of the carpet, she glides her fingertips over the scales on her face and in her hair to draw attention to it, extending her tongue and flicking it upward for but a moment before retracting it. Then she slithers off again.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers looks /considerably/ put out about something, particularly when she receives a letter. She stomps off for the time being, possibly to have a tantrum.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask before departing.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask prowls her way into position, turning to exhibit the gown that goes with the black cat mask. She pauses to "lick" her paw, then flounces her way off from the limelight.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing an ornate silver wolf mask before departing.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn approaches the runway and awaits her turn. She moves along, long legs accented by the leggings and the vines winding up them, and the slender arms. Lovely small blooms and leaves help provide coverage over strategic areas of the blackthorn costume, a pretty but 'touch at your own risk' plant.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask seems a bit uncertain about getting in line, but when his dance partner hurries away to join up he shrugs and finds a spot. Once it's his turn to model, he steps up and out, walking forward to the end of the catwalk and just thrusting his arms out to the side. For just a second he catches the light and shines, radiant as the sun . Then he gives the room a thumbs up and dips off to the side so the next person can go.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask is overheard praising Aiden.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers has joined the a whimsical flower garden.

Turn in line: Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies

Turn in line: Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask

Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing dappled fawn mask leaves, following Someone wearing an indomitable bull mask.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask takes her turn to display her marvelous costume. She prances along the carpet, placing her hands at her hips and making sure to wiggle her bottom so that her feathers... er.. gown flutters and shimmers. She draws one hand down her gown to gesture towards her slippers (toes pointed of course), one at a time, before making a show of turning about in place, ending with a playful smile displayed under her mask.

Turn in line: Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies steps onto the catwalk with confidence and smiles before literally model-stomping down the runway in her specially designed 'dragon feet', flipping golden blond hair in a cheeky move before striking a pose at the end of the walkway. Everything on the woman gleams, glimmers, glitters, or sparkles in some fashion. Smiling once more, she struts her way back down the catwalk for the next contestant.

The line has been dismissed by Aiden.

Someone wearing limted edition Marin'Alfar goldfish mask pauses as her name is called. With a nervous twitch of her lips, she waltzes away from her group in the garden -- gait liqoured and loose -- and takes to the carpet. A blue mask of exaggerated elven features, sparkling silks encrusted with crushed metals and pearls. She adds zero flourish, simply walking with the utmost casualness down the runaway and then spinning on her heel at the end for no other reason than it seemed fun.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask steps to the side once she's strutted her stuff, adjusting the ribbons holding her mask into place and running her fingers through her hair. She puts one hand on her hip and waits.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask moves on over to stand in her place beside the Stygian Dragon and murmurs to the lady. She looks about, appreciating the lovely costumes on display.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn moves away from the others and over toward a spot to sit, grasping a goblet of wine and sipping from it along the way.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask snaps his finger out at the bird visaged man! "Ah! You almost spilled it!" He elbows the other otter.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask gets a Token of Gild from a bright blue messenger bag.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask accepts a glass of champagne from someone and notes to the woman with the serpent mask, "Your dress is amazing. Was this a custom order?"

Aiden gets a shark maw satchel from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts a shark maw satchel in useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden picks up a simple velvet bag.

Aiden gets some chin-length gold chain and white feather earrings from a simple velvet bag.

Aiden puts some chin-length gold chain and white feather earrings in useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden picks up an unremarkable belt pouch.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask tells the shadowy moon, "I lucked across someone feeling very generous. Or at least, I saw the costumes they had and loved this one, so decided to just ask for it. I liked how your spin showed the moon phases on your dress; quite clever."

Aiden puts a black bottle with icy accents labeled 'his' in useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts a brown glass bottle with orange accents in useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden puts A simple bottle with a woody, spicy perfume in useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden gets a bag with party tokens from useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden gets Whitehawk Scents - Tranquil Lotus from a bag with party tokens.

Aiden puts Whitehawk Scents - Tranquil Lotus in useful black backpack with red edging.

Aiden gets a small, opaque purple glass vial of fragrant oil from a bag with party tokens.

Aiden puts a small, opaque purple glass vial of fragrant oil in useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask takes a moment to consider a favorite thing. "A week doesn't pass I don't find something fantastic. Or frightening," he nods to the dark visage'd bird, "Or-" there's a laugh as the Smaller Otter makes his point. He echoes, "Both." He sips politely at his glass while the mouse describes reason for an exoduce from the City.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we've come to the final matter of competition tonight! The Best Dressed! By votes that were cast through the dancing competition and the display of exceptional attire with the quick trip down the carpet, I have the results!" Aiden says with a nudge to his raven mask to lift it up again, "The second runner up for tonight's voting is, the fantastic peacock /and/ the black feline! If you are wearing such masks, please come to the stage and select your prize from the table up here! <really the red edging bag>. Well deserved! We've had a lot of prize sponsors, more than I can name. They kept piling in but I have seen they're properly praised. I wanted to thank everyone again for the support. Now now, come up peacock and feline! Get your prize! Superb attire!"

Aiden drops useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask gets A simple bottle with a woody, spicy perfume from useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask stands like a fool for a moment. Then squeals and declares, "That's me! I won second runner up!"

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask slinks her way up and claims a prize from the bag. "Thank you," she purrs gratefully, and returns to her place.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn claps for the winners, a nod of approval and a smile showing on her lips.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask gets a bag of leather armor from useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies applauds for the black feline and fantastic peacock as they go up to claim their prizes, smiling.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask politely puts her hands together to applaud the peacock and feline. Her eyes are mostly for the prizes, however.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask claps for the peacock and feline! "Handsome indeed!"

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask offers a delighted, "Thank you!" as she hurries off with her prize.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask gapes as the peacock is called as one of the winners. The kitteh bursts into clapping, though chuckles when she draws out the leather armor.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask applauds for the winners, giving them encouraging smiles as they head up to get their prizes.

The raven up front rubs his hand under the leather beak, before he bobs his head to the second runner ups! He bounces foot to foot then decides for a moment as he watches the armor getting carted off, "Well now, that was a right good grab there! Hah. Hopefully that armor will go to good use! Congratulations!" And then he pivots and walks toward the small wagon, "You see this here! The runner up can choose from the wagon load /and/ from the table of prizes. Hopefully someone's brought strong arms with them tonight!" He grins, "The runner up for tonight's best dressed goes to: the shadowy moon mask! Come on up!"

Someone wearing NeverMore Raven Mask applauds the announced winners, though moreso for the peacock as she gets back closer to her seat.

Someone wearing a midnight black feline mask applauds, genuinely impressed with both the Moon, and her solar companion.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies claps once more as the shadowy moon is called up to the front, even letting out a whistle before looking back to her companion and murmuring something softly.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask gets a floral-motif rose gold ring from useful black backpack with red edging.

midnight black dragon mask claps for the winners enjoying all their costumes.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask stands up and applauds enthusiastically as his partner in dancing and the daily dance across the sky comes in second. He lifts up his mask enough to give a loud whistle as she goes to collect her prizes.

Aiden gets a shark maw satchel from useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask gets Reserved Cask of Raconteur's Flight of Fancy from Simple Wagon.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask looks a little surprised when her name is called and heads on up to pick out yet another beautiful ring from the prize table and then motion for a cask to be flagged for someone else to port home later. "Thank you to those who voted." She calls out, giving a wave to those assembled.

"Peacock, that armor was donated by House Pravus - quite the steal there!" He winks from underneath his mask, "And now, the winner of the best dressed Menagerie Masquerade Ball, taking home a seasilk jacket with a matching satchel from Master Oliver's collection, PLUS an item from the small wagon and the table <bag>, is the wearer of the Dragon Mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and Rubies! An overwhelming amount of votes came in! You'll have to tell us who made the mask for next year! Come on up! Give us another spin while you're up here!"

Aiden drops a shark maw satchel.

Aiden drops a fitted duster jacket of silver seasilk secured with shark tooth buttons.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies picks up a shark maw satchel.

Someone wearing a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies picks up a fitted duster jacket of silver seasilk secured with shark tooth buttons.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask applauds politely after each winner is announced; she murmurs, "That had to cost a fortune."

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn gives a cheer and more applause for the winners. "Quite a fun event but time has come to head back home. Thank you for hosting it." She gives a cheerful little wave and heads out

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask gasps for her companion, the Stygian Dragon and exclaims, "You won!" In case she didn't already know! She applauds the lady with great enthusiasm, probably still on her own high for winning a prize too! She also nods towards the speaker as he tells her who donated the armor, offering a thankful nod of her head.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask applauds, but snorts at the serpent's comment. "Five or six fortunes, I think."

Someone wearing Peacock Mask puts a hand next to his mouth to shout, "Not to mention the dress and the boots! All top quality!" he laughs then, and tries to fill his mouth with wine instead of shouting.

Kyan, a long-legged silver tabby-cat arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask before departing.

Someone wearing a silken demi-mask of blackthorn has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Kyan, a long-legged silver tabby-cat arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers before departing.

Someone wearing NeverMore Raven Mask applauds the best dressed winner, "That two from our little group here. Not bad at all."

With the competition finally at a close... the music returns and people are allowed to enjoy themselves and mingle in their masks. There's no de-masking called for yet! Party goers get a chance to relax, eat, drink, and dance. <OOC: That's it from me as host. Log will stay on but totally free-flowing rp now!>

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask is overheard praising Aiden.

Lydia salutes and waves, her guards arriving to practically carry her home.

Upon hearing her costume called out as the winning one, she gives a delighted laugh and heads to go collect her prizes. As she reaches Aiden, taking the prizes, she smiles broadly, "That would be MIstress Josephine Arcuri for the mask and jewelry, and Master Torian Culler for the dress and shoes!" In a quick move, she removes the mask and reveals herself to the crowd as Belladonna Pravus. Smiling towards the crowd, lifts her chin and moves back towards her companion.

Belladonna puts a dragon mask of Stygian, Iridescite, Diamonds and rubies in a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing a fantastic peacock mask is overheard praising Aiden: Such a wonderful masq ball!

Someone wearing silk mask with peridots and emeralds has joined the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria.

Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask leans over and says to the moon, "Are you ready to go home?" When she voices her assent, he holds out his arm so she can take it, then leads her to the exit. As he walks to the exit he offers a wave to the serpent. "I hope you're back to your normal animal tomorrow." Then he's heading back to the ferocious beasts room, speaking quietly to the moon as he goes.

Remaining items from the simple wagon or the tabe <the bag> are announced to be up for sale via donation.

Someone wearing a shadowy moon mask leaves, following Someone wearing a gleaming rays of the sun mask.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask stays a little while longer to mingle, though not that much longer. Soon enough, the snake slithers on out.

Someone wearing a praseodymium-scaled serpent half mask has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing NeverMore Raven Mask gets Lacuna Axe from useful black backpack with red edging.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask eyes the cat as it moves from purrself, towards the Widowbird. The Ocelot moves over closer to her and offers a smile. "Since your Osprey left, perhaps you would care to take a turn with me on the dance floor."

Miranda removes her fantastic peacock mask, taking a deep breath and holding her armor bag with some delight. Her face is lit up as if she'd won first prize and she absently pushes a lock of hair behind her ear, "My Lady, congratulations," she offers to Belladonna.

Someone wearing an impish midnight ebon fox mask makes his way on!

The Visage of a Raven finally climbs down from center stage, dusting off his leathers as he walks toward the dance floor. He looks around those who remain.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth before departing.

Aiden puts A simple bottle with a woody, spicy perfume in useful black backpack with red edging.

Smiling at Miranda, Belladonna inclines her head and smiles warmly towards her, "Thank you, my lady. And to you as well! I hope that armor serves you well." She looks to her Peacock companion and lifts a brow at him with a chuckle, "Have you imbibed enough to dance yet?"

Aiden puts an unremarkable belt pouch in a simple velvet bag.

Miranda has joined the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Aiden before departing.

Miranda returns to one of her previously abandoned seats by the campfire to set her bag down and open it, peering into the contents just short of drooling. She's pleased with her prize, certainly.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing NeverMore Raven Mask makes a domnation for a rather fancy axe, returning with it to his group. He pauses and chuckles to the Midnight Dragon, "A worthy cause...and a very nice weapon." He looks to Miranda, "The armor shoce would hae been the give-away..if not for the voice." He takes off his own mask.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers holds up a hand to the Ocelot when he approaches, her gaze on the man in the ornate silver mask, who seems to be speaking a bit angrily to her. "I'm afraid I'm occupied," she tells the Ocelot without looking at him. "But thank you."

Aiden has joined the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Someone wearing Peacock Mask laughs and drains the last of his wine before disposing of the glass. "Enough to try it sure, never enough to do it well I'm afraid." he shakes his hips, making the large cloth fan on his backside wobble, "Especially with all this on."

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask takes the Magpie by the arm and leads the way out.

Someone wearing wooden sad face mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask has left the a whimsical flower garden.

6 King's Own Guardsmen leaves, following Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask.

Someone wearing ruffled magpie mask leaves, following Someone wearing wooden sad face mask.

Fecundo is overheard praising Aiden: He put on one hell of a Masq for the peerage.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria: 8

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria: What a wonderful event sponsored by a house that really knows how to host a party.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria.

Aiden is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria: For caring about the Lodge of Petrichor!

There was simply no use in trying to wear the mask anymore. Aiden lets it ride up on his forehead, sweating profusely from under it which he has to wipe down his mocha face a few times with a cloth. He is remaining around for those who wish to speak with him but his eyes zero in on a particular Owl ear the giraffe viewpoint.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask is overheard praising Rubino-zaffria: A terrific event and a good cause.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask's entire mood seems to change when the woman doesn't even look, in order to dismiss. A frown crosses pink lips. The Ocelot throws down the drink onto the ground, splashing what remains of the sparkling liquid. "I know who you are..." is heard as the cat strides off, out of the event.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Stojan, the assistant, 3 Thrax Guards leave, following Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth.

Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask is overheard praising Aiden: A fantastic masquerade!

Someone wearing a detailed seasilk and feather owl mask with a draping cowl has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask is overheard praising Miranda: A fantastic peacock!

Someone wearing a gray silk mouse mask with pink ears has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Belladonna has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing a black silk Widowbird mask with a spray of wine-red feathers blinks when the Ocelot responds by tossing their drink away, finally looking over with an arch of her brow. "Congratulations, I suppose," she says airily to their words about knowing who she is.

Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask is still standing near the giraffes when Aiden approaches, and she holds out a hand to him. "You did a beautiful job here, my love, and I am so very proud of you and your efforts," she says fondly. "It has been a very impressive masquerade."

Someone wearing an adorable otter mask has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing Gilded Ocelot Mask has left the Monarch Stag and Doe Exhibit.

Someone wearing a charming otter mask has left the an outdoor kitchen with fire pits and cauldrons.

Someone wearing Peacock Mask has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Fecundo has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Aiden is overheard praising Gianna.

With the music still going and the evening young yet, the pair of otters take more turns upon the dance dancefloor, their time before insufficient to scratch a dancing itch. Their passage is less acrobatic this time, but the laughter is the same and at the end of one particularly jaunty tune, they, clap and with merry hearts, lift their masks to make their thanks known to the host. And that done, they make their way heads filled with fancies, back into the City.

Kalani leaves, following Kaldur.

Aiden looks toward where the music is still playing, his hand reaching out to swoop around the owl mask wearer, "We should dance." He smiles against the fond compliment, "What do you say? There's no competition..." He murmurs, "I know that what we raised here today will help contribute to the protection of the Lodge. I'll bring his Majesty and the Archlector the account books in due time." He looks around, "I couldn't believe all the donations I ended up getting. When this city wants to, it can come together and work for a united cause."

Isidora has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

an elegant snowy owl, Lystra, Morigan leave, following Isidora.

Miranda has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Someone wearing iridescent black silken owl mask laughs softly, but she lets Aiden lead her out onto the dancefloor, her hand in his, almost shyly. "I'm not much of a dancer," she admits with a fond smile. "I suppose I should take off my mask as well. It's been a very successful masquerade. Very successful. You do great things." She seems willing to give dancing a go, though.

Miranda fetches herself a servant to assist her with carrying her bag o' armor. Since, after all, she's in a gown and wouldn't want to ruin it. She does find her way towards Aiden and the owl, but avoids disturbing their dance, just waits patiently for now.

The erstwhile bat not only removes her mask, but removes the dog ears from her grumpy kitten. Dafne flashes a warm smile toward her co-ruler, but does not disturb her dance, instead making her way out.

Dafne has left the Giraffe Viewing Platform.

Nightshade, a tiny black kitten, 3 Rubino and Zaffria guards, Ariadne, Penelope leave, following Dafne.

Zara has left the a cozy campfire surrounded by boulders and wooden perches.

Aiden checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 28 higher.

Grazia checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 8 lower.

Funny enough when it came to the menagerie and masquerade balls, Aiden wasn't quite so shy as his counterpart seemed to be. "That's alright, I'll go slow and you can just follow me along, don't think about it... just listen to where my body is pushing you." Totally naive in saying that he carries on like nothing is amiss, setting her up to begin a form and a sequence of steps. True to his word he goes slow enough that the few missteps that are taken appear insignificant to their overall performance. "I'm wish I could have spent a bit more time mingling," he notes, "But you know how these things go..." a beat, "Maybe I outta hire more help next time."

"The house has a contract with the Whispers, darling," Grazia points out to Aiden as they dance, not that she's doing much of the dancing, just letting him lead. She makes some attempt to relax into 'listening to where his body is pushing hers,' but it's awkward nonetheless. "Next time I will help, too. I certainly could have helped you score the dancing. Gods know I will never compete in a dancing contest!"

Skinny fingers rake through the mildly sweaty, messy nest of blonde now free from the press of that leather mask, Arcadia's youth-touched face alight with a look of refreshment and relief. She smiles into the cool breeze of the night, the exposed skin of that smiling mug happy to be able to breathe on its own again. Her eyelids crinkle with mirth in response to Harlex's reveal, and she glances between him and Berenice with a certain unfamiliarity. "Yes, I do not know either of you -- But. Mn!" She blinks, cooing a bit in Harlex's direction. "I know that name. I'm Cady. Cady Leary, are you not affiliated with my House in some way?"