The amphitheater has been decorated to host a masquerade ball! Musicians have taken spot in the alcove designed for them; a small orchestra of instrumental performers with a few singers additional to their number. From their layout, they'll be able to play a variety of music, from the enchanting theatrical noble style to the livelier common jig.

There's a fairly sizable crate off to the one side of the amphitheater's stage, opposite the musicians, covered for now with a silken white sheet, and yet there's a distinctive cooing come from it and if one listens closely enough, some fluttering of wings. The stage has been swept and cleared, prepared for the dancers to sweep through it.

For decor, 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 seating; while candles, lanterns, and torches have been strategically placed for when the sun starts to go down, some even dangling from the awnings. On every tier of bench there's been warm red silk runner draped over the stone and cushions in all colors available to pad the seats.

Servers are constantly drifting up and down the amphitheater seating, with beverages of choice from sparkling wines to mead. Food and further beverage is found near the entrance to the amphitheater, 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.

2 Pravus Guard arrives, following Nicia.

At the entrance of the amphitheater, the gentleman in the feathery hawk mask and the lady with the sloth mask and claws stand next to each other, obviously there to welcome those who arrive at the event. They work in concert; when one is occupied with greeting a new guest, the other takes over to greet the next one. It's efficient, and assures that everyone feels welcome. And of course, if people want to drift in on their own, no one is forced into the reception line!

1 Grayson Guardsmen leaves, following Aiden.

Someone wearing grinning white skull mask offers enfolded papers in an envelope, handing over his ticket. It's hard to say whether he does it with a smile, because he is a grinning skull, and so, perforce, is smiling, but his voice is warm with easy humor as he says, "What a nice-looking party."

1 Grayson Guardsmen arrives, following Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak.

One of the first to arrive, a man wearing a handpainted blue rose mask enters the ampitheatre with a Butterfly on his arm. He chats with his date in a lively but exotic sort of language, his grin broad and bright. He pauses just within the room to take an appreciative look about him, taking in the sight of the flowers and creeping plants and the strategically placed candles, before he notes where Aiden stands. "There he is being!" the Blue Rose says to his Butterfly, nodding over to the Hawk with a grin, a rhythmic and exotic accent wrapped around the deep bass of his voice. "Shall we go be greeting?" he asks, already starting that way.

No one expects the Inquisition, especially after an upgrade from hoods to masks. Female, yes, the curves inherent to that snugly tailored longcoat imply as much. But, matched with the red flame insignia emblazoned on her breast and the sleek but grim contours of the dragon's face she wears, she is not so very /feminine/. Striding rather than gliding, proud and brisk of pace, someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask is probably not here to have fun. "Very festive," she says in broad Oathlands drawl to the skull's observation.

The second such masked party she has been to since arriving, but it is the first she's actually gotten a mask for. The lady in the ornate gold fox mask makes her way into the amphitheater, her hands smoothing out the dress, making certain that the high slit is staying where it is supposed to as she looks around. Before she gets very far she spots one of the servers, and moves to intercept them, getting herself a drink before retreating to a perfect wallflower location.

Someone wearing grinning white skull mask glances over the dragon entering behind him with a slight startle, as one might startle at the advent of a dragon in a glorious hat. "Quite," he says, and then adds lightly, "I feel like I should make you the loan of my cloak for a bigger pair of wings," as he plants a hand over his chest and bows slightly to the woman.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask walks in on the arm of the man wearing the Blue Rose mask. Her movements are graceful, even more so than usual, as if the gown and mask she wears inspires her to new heights of elegance. Bright eyes look from the man she is with towards the one wearing the Hawk mask. "Oh, yes please," she says in her heavily accented voice, walking with him the rest of the way. The man in the Blue Rose mask hands over their tickets and she dips her butterflied head towards her friend. "It has been a long time. Is good to be seeing you, even without seeing you. This looks beautiful here."

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets walks in with her Lion. They were both in exquisite silks and they matched. Embroidererd cats decorate the pair of them, and the Brown haired beauty clings to the Lions arm as if she were slightly nervous.

Somoeone wearing a Gold and Black Wolf Mask arrives just as everyone else does, paying his fee at the door and then entering the area. He surveys the room, checking the cuffs on his jacket before he begins to mingle with the rest of the guests. It's clear that he's looking for someone, he just hasn't quite bumped into them yet.

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask lifts her hand, fingers performing a brief and light tug on the brim of said glorious hat. "Poor manners for a dragon to flap its wings in a crowd. Not my party, not my nobles screaming of the damage done their gowns by the breeze." The quirk of her tone implies a smile though none brushes the mouth visible beneath her mask's edge. "But if you indulge, I might tell later of hawks and butterflies wreaking winged havoc instead of someone wearing a skull."

As people enter, the lady in the sloth mask beams at people passing by, and the nervous lioness gets her attention momentarily. "Welcome," she says in a warm tone, noting, "Please enjoy the evening, and don't worry - we're all creatures here." Her mouth curves even further than the sloth's natural cheeful grin. "There's plenty to do and see. I hope you'll be delighted."

Someone wearing A Gold and Green Cat Mask made his way into the amplitheater. In greens and golds, he looked quite the dapper dan. No expression could be seen under the mask, but the bodylanguage was one of humor and energy. He danced along, admiring the beautiful masks, and the beautiful people wearing them. "Such a clever menagerie gather!" He looked over the dragon closely, "And what manner of beast are you?"

All by her lonesome, a deer-masked woman all in white makes a slow entrance along with the rest of the mismatched flock making their way into the amphitheatre. Despite her plainly feminine form, the mask bears a pair of tall antlers which might mark her mascule, the wooden adornments granting her nearly another foot in height. To be fair, the ears which extend from either side of the mask lend nearly as much width to her face, the guise possessed of some balance. Wide eyes peer about, taking in all the assorted wildlife with utmost curiosity as she winds her way through the crowd.

Someone wearing a Peacock Feather Half mask is all peacocks, for this event, maybe fitting its location. A peacock pattern on her long, slinky gown, peacocks on her jewelry, and of course, peacock feathers arrayed around her typical masquerade domino. Nevermind the mixed gender metaphor, because she carries herself with all the proud, regal confidence of her namesake, and all it's slightly overstated effort to impress, as well. There's surely nothing subtle in her presentation, from her gown's tight cut and plunging back, to the feathers, to the heady scent she wears. And so, strutting like her representative creature, she makes her entrance.

"I mean, why not?" The grinning skull does not quite laugh, though the humor is warm in his voice. "I don't think being mannerly is highly important to most skeletons, to be frank."

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask walks in and looks around relieved she didn't go with Peacock. She shakes her black hair over her back and wanders, decidedly nervous about braving the crowd.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak is standing pensively with the cheerful lady sloth, silver eyes looking out of the hawk mask toward those approaching to greet him. His mouth curls as they come closer to him and he flourishes a hand, "I'm glad that you could make it!" His eyes are taking in the masks that the people who come to him wear, appreciating, "Picking the best dressed is going to be a challenge, I can see that now. And thank you, I hope you enjoy the night! The dancing should begin soon!"

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses flourishes into a low bow for the Hawk before he shifts out an envelope that seems a bit on the stuffed side. "For you, my friend. I am putting extra more than what our tickets are costing, just in case," he says in a richly accented voice, before he beams a smile over to the Butterfly. "Are you ready to be dancing, pretty Butterfly?" he asks of her with a cant to his head, leaning to murmur something to her with a quiet little laugh.

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask has her drink, which is almost gone in just a few sips as she starts to scan the masked individuals that are coming in. The manner in which she is looking is clearly not one of simple curiosity. She's looking with a purpose, even if that purpose might come to no good end with everyone in a mask, and being able to pick one person out of the crowd might prove to be more difficult than anticipated. But look she does, until the drink is empty and she's passing the empty glass off for a fresh one, this one not touched yet, though.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask treads in as a flicker of flame, mask a raptor's jut. The robe hangs loose around his frame, obscures his feet. Enough people here to have him sticking to peripheries and gauging the room.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets smiles patting the womans arm that is with him, he looks around whispering to her softly while he heads in the direction of the man with the HAwk mask. "Good evening, brother." did he just call the person brother. "Everything looks good." he smiles his blue eyes looking to his friend. "Thank you for asking us to come."

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth is decked out in leathers from head to tow, images of the sea and crashing waves completely decorating every inch of the wearer's apparel. He wields in one hand a harpoon dressed with a flowing blue cloth that hangs from the bottom of the blade across the hilt. The outfit's design is clear, fearsome and war-like to truly represent a predator of the ocean. The giant of the man wearing it stalks through the ballroom, jewels encrusted into the sockets of his eyes glinting as he sizes up every other colorful animal across the way. Included in his entourage was a bird, though not one of prey. The aquatic predator locks arms with a lady-like shape in beautiful white peacock feathers!

Someone wearing a royal peacock mask enters, as another grandiose bird that isn't strutting. The graceful figure in sunset-hued silks probably chose her mask as a last-minute addendum in order to fit the theme of animals and avians. Although, there is no disputing that there is a sort of aloof and distantly royal bearing to her figure as she weaves through the crowd on her way toward the refreshment tables. Once there, the sunset peacock claims a flute of sparkling wine and she drifts toward a corner that might provide an excellent place to people watch.

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth leans gently on the hawk's arm, murmuring in support, "Everything is lovely." She pees at the lion curiously, but if she has a guess as to who he is, she keeps it to herself.

The musicians break into their first sequence of the night, the majority of the instrumental sounds slow and winding, to support the elegance of a classical and theatrical noble dances. It also hopes to encourage the first people into the event proper, to spread out and decide if they are going to sit amongst the rows of seats or participate early on. Mingling, oogling of masks and attire, dancing and flourishes of grandeur...are all bound to happen!

A girl who is not terribly dressed up enters the area. She wears a %xhwhite rabbit mask%xn that includes a little rabbit nose and whiskers and long ears the stretch upwards. On her body, she wears a volumous red and black coat indicative of the Inquisition. She steps off to the side and looks around curiously, watching everything silently as she stands alone and observes.

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask drops her hat-tipping hand to the pommel of her sword -- peace-tied, for respect -- and favours yonder cat-mask with a shaded glance. "The scales do imply lizard, the wings something else entirely." A shift in stance and her gaze swings out over the crowd. One shoulder is rolled back, loosened, idle, settling. "I heard the bones which came to fight for the siege were disciplined enough. Less so the fleshy dead. What a world of wonders this is."

Someone wearing a Gold and Black Wolf Mask finds his way to a person that is serving alcohol. He obtains a glass and then resumes the hunt, until he finds himself standing quite near to an ornate golden fox woman. Rocking on his heels, he'll reach forward and tap her on the shoulder. "Are you waiting for someone?" He wonders, lifting the glass to his mouth and taking a swallows that's far more than a sip.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask smiles to the man in the Blue Rose mask, her own bronzed butterfly showing the lower part of her face, revealing the expression. "I am always ready to be dancing, especially when accompanied by such a handsome rose."

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak looks toward the lion mask with red garnets, his lips curling up as he reaches forward and gives the man in the lion mask a shoulder squeeze, "I'm very glad that you came. Please do enjoy yourself! We'll be having a dance competition shortly and then another surprise, once we've decided on best dressed... and my, I've given us quite the challenge." The /us/ being the woman in the sloth mask beside him and on his arm.

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask has joined the Upper Middle Row Seating.

Erika rarely ever felt lost, and now was one of those times. Icy blue eyes widen at all those in masks, and she takes a small step back, suddenly feeling very under dressed and out of place. She runs a hand over her face as she continues looking around, the ranger sticking out like a sore thumb.

Someone wearing a royal peacock mask has joined the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses has joined the Front and Center Row Seating.

The elegantly clad white peacock turns a dazzling smile up to the vicious predator that takes her arm. Sercuring herself more firmly at his side, she leans in to whisper something to him before chuckling and motioning for him to lead them deeper into the room and towards their hosts, the Sloth and the Hawk. "Thank you again for escorting me tonight, my Lord Shark. I do hope you have fun here tonight. Its interesting to try and guess who is whom!"

Someone wearing a white deer mask's steps shift from tentative meandering to a graceful sway as the music slows. There might even be a lazy spin or two before she has a glass of bubbly in hand and goes back to her quiet drifting, a wide-eyed prey-beast all too comfortable wandering among the assorted predators.

Someone wearing A Gold and Green Cat Mask gave a laugh and a curious bow, "Something else entirely indeed." The cat cackled, and then moved to the music, not quite dancing, but instead just stepping in time, as he looked to find a like minded partner for the competition.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask circulates the room looking over all the other masks and clasping her hands lightly in front of her. Her head tracks from mask to mask and face to face as she presses her lips together as she draws a long, deep breath.

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask startles at the tap, the drink in her hand momentarily at risk of being spilled before she laughs, checking to make sure she didn't commit some sort of alcoholic blasphemy, "Yes, I do happen to be waiting for someone." She glances over at the man in the wolf mask, a quick smile is offered to him, "And you?"

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses laughs a little to the Butterfly, flashing her a bright smile that is not hidden by the eye-mask he wears. He gives her hand a light tug over to the lower seating, so that he can look over the crowd. "I am wondering who are all these people are being," he says to the Butterfly, a curious glance passed over to the Shark and White Peacock as they enter. "Look over there, iti s a land shark," he nudges his friend and grins.

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth doesn't want to anchor the hawk, so she lessens her lean on the bird of prey as the entrants trickle down, though still remains beside him. "Would you like me to linger by the door? I don't mind, and you can circulate. If I get tired, I'll send someone for you. Though if you could send one of those shrimp-and-bacon nibbles my way - or well, six of them, I'd be terribly grateful.

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents slips into the party after doling over her entrance fee writs, looking entirely too enthusiastic to be here. "Oh, look at all the lovely masks. And costumes. I know that I should have also considered a costume. Well, shame on me. Next time, little bunny, you'll know." She chastises herself as she skip-hops along to fetch a glass - well, two glasses - of wine. Once she has those, yes, one for each hand, she turns around to consider where to perch herself. "Which wild creature will provide the best company, I wonder."

Someone wearing grinning white skull mask has joined the Upper Middle Row Seating.

Servants masked as dogs and cats circulate with offerings of hors d'oeuvres and drinks. The food ranges from savory, such as the shrimp from the Isles wrapped in bacon and pinned with a small wooden pick, to sweet, such as the tiny cakes flavored with lemon and frosted with lavender.

The plain white rabbit in the black and red coat continues to stand off to the side and watch people. She crosses her arms over her chest and her bunny-ears can be seen to move to and fro as she scans the crowd, looking around the area. Her attention lingers on some people occasionally, but then moves on. She stands alone, but it doesn't really appear that she's here for a social outting anyways.

"That's actually pretty accurate," the grinning skull says, with a slight tilt of surprise. "You sound like an Oathlander, but I've got to tell you, you sound very rational about the servants of the Queen," he says as he trails after the Dragon towards the seats. "Uncommon from your compatriots. Well, not all of them," he adds reflectively. "I can't tell you how many times somebody thought I was doing some sort of terrible witchcraft." Yes, this is what one should say to somebody in an inquisitorial longcoat at a party.

"I've got a feeling some may be easier than others..." The Shark's raspy tone filters through the steel teeth in nail-scratching fashion, very fitting considering the rest of his attire for the evening. The two of them arm and arm would approach the Sloth and Hawk as their hosts for the evening. The tall man beneath the mask bows his head in respect toward their gracious hosts. "Nice party you've got here. I haven't been to one, but it seems like the free booze is flowing. I think I'll like it." Leering down toward his companion for the evening, quiet words are shared amid another series of snickering and laughter.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets smiles a little to Aiden before she leans into whisper to the Lion near her, her eyes look round to see if she can find the cat and she points out someone to him.

Someone wearing a Peacock Feather Half mask spies another peacock and... well, presumably looks just a little bothered by it. It's that classic 'wearing the same outfit to the party' disaster, and it's never quite ideal! Holding up her head in a way that suggests very much playing her animal part, she breathes a quiet (ok, not THAT quiet, she kind of wants people to hear) 'hmph' and goes wandering to find a drink.

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents slips into the party after doling over her entrance fee writs, looking entirely too enthusiastic to be here. "Oh, look at all the lovely masks. And costumes. I know that I should have also considered a costume. Well, shame on me. Next time, little bunny, you'll know." She chastises herself as she skip-hops along to fetch a glass - well, two glasses - of wine. Once she has those, yes, one for each hand, she turns around to consider where to perch herself. "Which wild creature will provide the best company, I wonder."

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak looks aside to sloth, relying heavily upon her to be the social butterfly for the present moment, offering smiles and things to those who come along into the party, "Oh no, I would prefer you mingled with the guests and even danced if you preferred. I'm fine lingering here until the dance competition begins..." His silver eyes coming to rest on those who greet him, "Thank you for attending and your donations of course."

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask has joined the Lower Middle Row Seating.

Someone wearing a white deer mask plucks up one of those lovely little lemon-lavender cakes as a tray-carting kitty slips past, popping the petite pastry beneath the nose of her mask and into her hidden lips. It's washed down with some of that bubbly, though the anatomy of her mask makes it difficult to take more than small sips at a time. Her wide-eyed attention slips from one peacock to another then another, the barest edges of a wide smile peeking out past her mask's pale muzzle.

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask headtilts, clearing the brim of her hat just enough to peer at the skull. With that mask in the way there's no way to gauge the expression beneath but there's a flatness to her tone when she says first, "I'm not an Oathlander." Yeah, tell that to her accent, all broad vowels and noble lifts. What follows is milder at least: "They fought on this side and died at least once in service for Crown and Compact. That's more than some living citizens have managed. Have you done any terrible witchcraft, Master Skull?"

Drawn in towards the hosts, the white peacock drops into a low curtsy before rising back up smoothly to grin at them. "Thank you for hosting such a wonderful evening! I'm truly going to enjoy trying to 'unmask' the name before the animals!" Looking back up to her Shark Lord, she smiles brightly and moves along, laughing lightly at the murmured words, responding in kind bbefore asking, "So! Who shall we hunt first, oh predator of the deep?"

Someone wearing a Gold and Black Wolf Mask takes another sip out of his drink, casting his gaze around the room quickly before returning to the fox. "Me too." There's a quick nod of his head and he gestures to his clothes. "I think she was expecting me to wear this mask that I sent to her but then she sent it back then I already had one and I didn't have time to write a reply about that. So anyway- I mean. Do you want to dance? While you wait for someone?" And then as well as someone can look intently through the the eyes of a mask, there's a pointed look for the drink she's working on.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets listens to what the lioness whispers to her nodding his head with a smile, "Would you care for a drink then perhaps a dance to warm up?" he asks his date softly. His blue eyes look in the direction of the person in the cat mask then around at everyone else. "Again thank you." he pats the hawks arm and moves on.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask walks with the man wearing the Blue Roses| towards the lower seating area, smiling at him. "I am sure I do not know most of those here, with or without masks. Perhaps I would be surprised though." She looks then to where he points, her bright eyes lighting up. "I have not seen a Shark in quite some time. That is impressive, yes?"

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents sips from the white wine in her left hand, pausing to cast brutal judgement upon it's taste - and color. She hrms rather theatrically to herself before she tastes the red wine in her right hand. Undergoing the same rigorous process. She looks between both glasses, and there's the idea that the bunny's nose might be wiggling. "Not too bad." She continues to drink from both for now.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask wanders towards the servers and picks at some of the cakes. She nibbles and finds a wall to lean up against carefully in her creamy gown. She sweeps her dark hair over her shoulders lazily.

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth seems quite inclined to keep an eye on the Hawk. "Are you sure?" she says, "I don't want to leave you on your own if you're feeling lost. Her grey eyes scan the crowd. "Oh...look at the white peacock! And the bunny!" She seems to have found some favorites.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth catching sight of others in the Roses and Butterfly masks eyeing their direction, he points an armored finger toward the lower seating. "Those two have my eyes. I'll bite, you peck?" Heaving, gravelly laughter hisses through the maw of the shark. Taking his companion by the hand, he makes a move toward the lower seating. The jewels of its eyes that drew the viewer's gaze was firmly planted toward the two of them. "What do you say, peacock? These seem like good prey?"

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets nods to her Lion conterpart and she smiles softly to him her dress moves round her ankles and she smiles adoringly. She looks to him then to the drinks "why that dose sound nice." she moves and the glass lions on her shoes catch the light. So much detail in the nobles costumes.

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask checked composure at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

"Nope," the grinning skull answers, cheerfully. He does not press the point upon her accent, and whatever his eyebrows do, it's impossible to tell behind the sheath of white silk that is his bone forehead. "Nor do I know any that would call the servants of the goddess and not the servants of the Abyss. It was miracle that fought against Brand." He glances across the party in the long sweep of his gaze. "A good turnout, I suppose-," he muses.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses has left the Front and Center Row Seating.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses has joined the Lower Middle Row Seating.

"Let me guess....it was a fox." The lady in the an ornate gold fox mask says, a quick smile flashing before she takes a sip from her drink, and sets it down unfinished. "I'd love to dance, thank you." Without waiting to see if he sets his drink aside, she reaches for the empty hand of the man in the wolf mask, starting to move out to the area set aside for the dancing.

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask is suddenly jolted from conversation with the Master o' the Dead and whirls. She's quick, /very/ quick, and fully intent on snatching the wrist of the man in the cat's mask with intention of twisting back his arm. So she can show him his own hand and tell him, loudly, "I think you lost this around my arse, sir."

Someone wearing grinning white skull mask startles, and then hears what the Dragon has said, and /snorts/. He says: "Subtle." Yes. The man in a skull mask with a giant bat wing cape is now looking in the direction of another man and commenting on his subtlety.

Someone wearing A Gold and Green Cat Mask grinned, caught, "I've been looking for it everywhere... Thank you for the assistance!" He near to cackled, pulling back with a dancing step.

Glancing at a passing platter of wine glasses, the female in the black and red coat with the plain white rabbit mask takes a step forward to grab a glass. She'll step back against the wall again and hold the glass to 'fit in' and continue to watch the events. She's still all alone, and looks rather well, like a wallflower, even though she appears to be watching quite avidly, her bunny ears are often moving as she looks back and forth.

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask checked strength at difficulty 10, rolling 3 lower.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses nods over to the Butterfly before he looks back to the Shark. "Much impressive," he agrees, his richly accented voice carrying just a bit there from the lower seating. "And he is with a Peacock. That is a very odd pairing," he laughs a little, flashing grins to the Peacock and Shark before he looks back to his friend. "I am anxious for the dancing to begin. I should have had you giving me lessons before."

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth calls out cheerfully to the Blue Roses man, "The dancing has already started, but I'm sure the musicians can pick up the pace if it's too sedate!"

Someone wearing a Black Dragon half-mask might lose the grip she has upon his wrist but she remains intent on following the groping cat. Near stalking him, really, advancing with ground-swallowing strides. Her other hand lifts, her mask removed -- Inquisitor revealed, and marked with angrily snapping eyes, and a jaw set hard. "Name yourself."

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask follows the point of her companion's hand and spies the Butterfly and Blue Rose with a broad grin. Giving a nod, she looks back up to the Shark and offers, "Absolutely, Lord Shark. By all means, lead the way. I cede the first blood to you as the better predator." Tucking her hand into his arm, she follows him towards the pair in the Lower Seating.

Menagerie workers circulate throughout the area, their identities hidden by amusingly precocious bug masks. Each one has a small menagerie creature on display and offers pettings and answers to patron questions. Different animals are on such display throughout the evening.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth has joined the Lower Middle Row Seating.

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents has joined the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask has joined the Lower Middle Row Seating.

Someone wearing a Gold and Black Wolf Mask laughs deeply, "How did you guess?" He manages to knock back the rest of his drink before setting the empty glass aside. He's happy to take her extended hand, twining fingers as they move from the seating to the floor. Once they arrive where the music is playing, he'll take the lead, holding her one hand still while his other drifts to the edge of her hip. He knows the steps and has done this particular number before. The sight of two people about to get into it over some groping has him squinting behind his mask and turning that way. "...Why?"

Someone wearing grinning white skull mask drifts more or less in the Dragon's wake, possibly a walking skeleton with a low taste for street theater. He glances around the party, looking to the animals nearest. "The better class of animal never lays hands upon a person without invitation," he says. He glances down at his fingernails, and then glances up again towards the contretemps.

Someone wearing a royal peacock mask has left the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets looks to the Lioness and moves to pull her with him to go dance, yup lets go dance."Come on." he says softly to her moving to where everyone would be dancing, "My Lady." he puts a hand out to her.

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth 2casts one more careful look at the Hawk, and then makes her way over to the Cat, the Dragon, and the Bat-Skull. Who is a Skull. That is Bat-like. (It's an animal theme, okay?). "Is there a problem?" she inquires, her hands resting on her curving stomach.

The Hawk-masked Host comes to the center of attention as the musicians draw to a fade away their slow dance music. "Thank you all for attending! I'm sorry I haven't been able to speak with you all yet, but I'm sure as the evening goes on it will get easier to do so! I'm glad to see you all here and I have already looked around at all the beautiful and artistic masks. We have very talented artisans among us! Do give your crafts man or woman an applaud!" He lifts his hands and does clap them toward the crowd, "Amazing. Very creative too! We'll announce the best dressed at the end of the night and the prizes will be on display!" He gestures toward two glittering pieces of jewelry.

"But now, I would like at this time to begin the dance competition! If you could all clear the stage and find seats in the amphitheater if you are not participating, that would be lovely!" He moves with a twist as he looks toward the musicians, a smile showing under his mask, going on to explain, "This is a couple's competition! You will be judged on composure, footwork, and style. If one of you makes a misstep during the competition, you will be tapped out and asked to join the seats once more until we have eliminated all save the last couple. Prizes will be given to the winning couple!"

Someone wearing A Gold and Green Cat Mask laughed, "Cats are hardly considered a better class of animal. Always rubbing against another, looking for attention. Gone quick enough when it's not wanted." He gave a bow, and slipped into the crowd near the dance floor as he was followed, taking up the Goldfinch's hand, to bring her to the dance floor with him as the music started.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask watches the Peacock leave before glancing at the Cat finding himself in trouble with the Dragon and raises her brows impressed. She whistles low and shakes her head at the Cat as he tows her out on to the dance floor. "I don't know that cats and birds should be friends." She murmurs softly.

Mercedes moves to intervene, holding up a hand to belay Goldfinch's acceptance of the dance. She lifts her voice. "This man," with a nod for the fellow in the cat mask, "laid hands upon my person without invitation or encouragement. I challenge you to an honour duel, sir. You will name yourself to me and accept, or name yourself a coward."

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth dragging his compatriot the Peacock with him, he finds his way down to the lower seating and invites the pair of them to sit just beside the Roses and Butterfly properly. With a flash of those steel chompers hidden beneath, you could almost get the impression that his mask was smiling. If only a little. "Good evenin'." He says to them both with the lady on his arm given a slightly tighter embrace. "Noticed your eyes looking this way. Impressed?"

Someone wearing A Gold and Green Cat Mask looked to the former dragon lady, "A dance off then. If you win, I will name myself. We must keep things in the spirit of the night, yes?"

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents has left the Top Row Seating.

"No," says Mercedes. "You took liberties with my person and you will answer for it in a dueling ring, or you will name yourself a coward. Answer now."

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets laughed as she was pulled out to dance, and for a moment her eyes were all on him. She followed him along eloquently and she pulls her body close to his as they dance, the lions dance along with them moving along the silks.

Eliana has joined the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask smiles a little more at the wolf, her free hand reaching up to curl around his neck before she shakes her head, "I suppose that it is just foxes intuition on that..." As for the grabbing? She has no idea, and answers that with just a shake of her head, "People have been drinking too much already.."

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak gets Champagne Silver Turtle Arm Bracelet Encrusted With Green-Blue Apatite Stones from a pink gift bag.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak drops Champagne Silver Turtle Arm Bracelet Encrusted With Green-Blue Apatite Stones.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak gets Black Sapphire Neodymium Horse Pendant from a pink gift bag.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak drops Black Sapphire Neodymium Horse Pendant.

Someone wearing A Gold and Green Cat Mask laughed, "Hardly liberties. I offer my deepest apologies for grazing you as I passed." He gave a bow, "If you're keen set on a duel, tomorrow morning you will have a letter with a time and place waiting."

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses inclines his head in a erspectful sort of way to the Shark and the Peacock as they come over. "I was thinking I've not been seeing a shark in some time, my good Lord," the Rose speaks in a rich accent that doesn't seem common to Arvum. "I was very amused. I am hoping the Peacock is safe," he chuckles, before he blinks over as the Hawk calls for dancers. "Oh, that is us for the dancing," he rises, looking almost apologetic to Shark and Peacock both before he takes Butterfly by the arm. "Perhaps we will be seeing you both on the dance floor?"

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses has left the Lower Middle Row Seating.

The girl in the plain white bunny mask watches the drama unfold without moving, and still holding the untouched wine she has in her right hand. Her little bunny ears do not swing to and fro anymore, instead, they seem focussed forward on the Dragon and the Cat.

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth looks between the Mercedes and the Cat. "I must respectfully ask that the pair of you take this discussion to the outside of the amphitheater, most especially if there's going to be a violent confrontation." She looks briefly at the Cat, and then to Mercedes. "If he outranks you, he does not have to accept. Of course, to do so, he must establish his identity."

Someone wearing a white deer mask muses aloud, "I wonder if there's a prize for Last Peacock Standing," as she notes the two more colorful of the birds have departed, leaving only the white-masked bird to claim that title. Given the fairness of her own mask, she might be a bit biased and approve of the way this has turned out. With the dancing beginning in earnest, though, the stag--those antlers assure she is not a doe--slips up into the seating to find a perch from which she might watch. After visiting with an owl perched upon one of the worker's arms, of course. It's too lovely to ignore.

"Sir Cat," the grinning skull remarks in a tone of utmost seriousness, "you are an insult to felines, who in my experience are creatures of grace and dignity, and if he happens to outrank the lady, I shall challenge on her behalf."

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask backs up from the Cat and Mercedes. She looks instead for a server with drinks and picks up a glass, walking to the seating with her back straight.

Someone wearing a white deer mask has joined the Front and Center Row Seating.

Mercedes is relentless, and continues to shift to prevent Cat and Goldfinch from their dance. "Name yourself now, so I know who is lying to me, and refusing a duel for taking liberties unasked for."

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask has joined the Lower Middle Row Seating.

Someone Wearing a Gold and Black Wolf Mask brings them to a pause as the announcement about the dancing competition begins. "Will we be competing?" He asks with a laugh. He watches the drama unfolding with the dueling and there's a soft sigh.

The Hawk masked host looks toward his co-host and spots that she's in a situation. He decides to try to get the attention back to the stage, "Couple up now! Those who are intending to register on the dance card, do make your way up front. I promise it won't be terrible! I have special prizes for those who compete!" He offers, "And should a lady find herself without a partner, I humbly offer my services!"

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents skip-hops back toward the refreshment tables to deposit two empty wineglasses on a tray. The little prey-animal pauses for a thought, lifting one hand to scritch behind one silk-and-satin ear. Her ivy-green eyes widen, startling, and she twirls around to consider the various animals again. Although, when she stops spinning - the world continues to spin. "Oh, goodness. It's hitting me. Glorious." Now, it's time to admire the actual animals that are being shown. After that, as though she is intending to remain true to her mask's inspiration, she steps up to sign up for dancing. "I lack a partner, Hawkman. But that's never stopped me ever-ever before."

3 Rough and tumble sailors arrives, following Merida.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask is still watching the

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask raises his hand from where he's settled near the wall. "If a man should find himself without a partner, I'll offer mine, I suppose. Parity."

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask glances towards the drama, getting distracted by that for a moment before she glances back at the wolf, "Uh...we can, but if I step on your toes, or cause you to fall and otherwise do any sort of damage you can not hold me accountable. I have warned you, and you will be agreeing to possible damage by my clumbsiness if we proceed." Assuming that he's going to agree, and risk stomped on toes, she starts to make her way up to the front like asked.

Someone wearing A Gold and Green Cat Mask frowned as the finch walked off, and the crazy lady continued to press him. "Fine. Seems there is no good sport here tonight." He removed his mask, showing himself to be Lord Karadoc Saik, The Stray Cat of Saikland. He eyed Mercedes, "Tomorrow morning you'll have my champion, time and place." He looked around, "Sadly, the masqurade is up... " He sighed, "No more fun to be had, I suppose." He glanced to the Hawk, "And apologies to you, as well, for the disruption. I came for joy and fun, and others for blood and self glory." He gave a bow.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask is still watching the Shark and the Peacock as she nods to the man wearing a Blue Rose. "It is an odd pairing, yes. Is predator, and prey? Though am not thinking peacocks can swim..." She smiles at her companion and says, "I am sure you will dance beautifully, my Rose." The competition is announces and she jumps up with an excited sound. She nods to the shark and says, "I was, very, yes. I have not seen a shark in some time, and the mask is very shiny, and teeth quite dangerous in appearance." She starts to move to the dance floor and says to the Shark and his Peacock, "do pardon us, please. It is time for dancing!"

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask smiles at all the dancers offering and being offered and sips at her wine slowly, taking a seat and keeping her eye on Karadoc and Mercedes now.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask has left the Lower Middle Row Seating.

"No good sport, in grabbing women without their leave? I suppose that would be poor sport, when you aren't allowed to get away with it. I await your terms, Lord Karadoc Saik. May Gloria judge you truly," Mercedes intones, contiving somehow to look down her nose at him. Then she turns, about face, and strides away to rejoin the fellow in the skull mask.

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents glances sideways at the firebird, "What about a bunny-rabbit, ser Phoenix?"

"Where 'fun' means 'grabbing ladies' asses while you pass,'" the grinning skull says, "I certainly hope the fun is over, you public boor."

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth regards Karadoc coolly. "I'm not sure how putting your hands on a person without their consent equates to joy and fun. We appreciate your patronage my lord, but it does indeed seem that the evening ends early for you. Enjoy the rest of your night." With that, she turns as well, and heads toward Mercedes. If she's able, she tries to catch the woman's attention.

Karadoc laughed at her fully then, "I hardly grabbed. Brushed her as I passed."

Someone wearing a white deer mask looks to the pair making their offers to the unpaired dancers, her green-eyed gaze glinting with mischief as it lingers on the firebird. "I don't suppose the antlers count for anything," she teases, hardly hopeful. An absent look is cast to the dissipating scuffle, but she's quick to move on to the more interesting parts of the event.

The woman in the blue sea dragon mask moves into the hall with a vibrant grace. She pauses at Karadoc's display, head canting to one side. She'd clearly arrives at the end of something.

Someone with a Gold and Black Wolf Mask beams and gives her fingers a squeeze. "We're going to be terrible and it's going to fine except where one of us twists and ankle. Come on." He escorts her to the front so that they can register themselves and wait for the competition to begin.

"Now you're calling her a liar," sneers the skull. "Because you can't /abide/ being called out for your terrible behavior in public. Quaint! How far the flower of Saik has fallen. I shall commiserate with the Legate about this the next time we have lunch." He turns in a flap of cloak, strolling across the party to collect more drinks.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses glances over his shoulder to where Karadoc's revealed himself to Mercedes, and he murmurs something to the Butterfly as he carries them both over to the Hawk. He flourishes a bow for the Hawk, holding up the Butterfly's hand intwined with his own. "We will be dancing in your competing," he beams a smile, as he tugs the Butterfly over to the dance floor.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask glances towards the Shark as the Butterfly and Rose leave them for the dance floor, a smile growing across her lips, "Well, my predator. Since we have been abandoned by our prey... shall we chase them to the dance floor and see if we caan't impress a few more people while we're at it?" She seems highly amused by the commentary they've received for their paired predator and prey, leaning in to respond in low tones once more to the Shark Lord before winking and tilting her head towards the dance.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask before departing.

Mercedes, now retreated from the dance floor, pauses to study the dragon mask in hand. A muscle tics in her jaw as she considers it. Then, briskly, without seeming regret, she ties the little ribbons around her belt. Unmasked it is, and just in time to turn and face the hostess on approach. A grave nod is given in acknowledgement and respect. "Marquessa."

"If neither rabbit nor antlered deer minds that I dance about as well as a bird, I'd be happy to oblige." The firebird dips a faint bow toward deer and bunny in turn, perhaps making a choice without making a choice. He late skips a narrowed look to Karadoc and Mercedes.

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

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets pauses in her dance as she leans in to whisper to the Lion, as Karadoc unveals himself and she winces slightly.

Someone wearing grinning white skull mask returns to the seating that he abandoned, and offers a glass of chilled mead to Mercedes (he's holding one for himself, too). The coils of his golden hair and his public assumption of skeletal traits make his identity not that much of a mystery. "Want a drink, Inquisitor?" he says. "Good evening, Lady Sloth," he adds with a slight upnod to the sloth. "It's a very cute sloth."

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask props her fore arms on her knees as she watches the dancers and cants her lead a little considering the dancers and smiling to herself. Sipping at her drink, the bird sighs and cants her head the other way.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth cringes with a shudder as the very idea of dancing seems to send chills down his spine. "Dance? Ha, you're lucky you caught me wearin' an animal mask in the first place. Dancing with creatures?" He shakes his head briskly to the peacock in kind, placing his free hand down against his hip eliciting some clinking and clanking of his armored body. "Now you're just bein' silly." There is the smallest testament of dry humor in his voice, though it's still directed with plenty of dower flatness to the Peacock.

Karadoc laughed more, and looked to Mercedes, shaking his head. He eyed the poorly attired skull a moment, considering something. "The Lady never said I grabbed her. Actually." He grinned a bit, "Though..." He gave a nod, thinking of something as he slipped out.

Eliana has left the Top Row Seating.

The Hawk host waves his hands up toward those coming to the stage, his face flushed underneath that hawk-mask. "Now, if you're all ready to proceed..." He looks around, "We'll start the music!" The musicians strike up a lively tune; a merry country dance popular in the more rural parts of the Oathlands that encourages clapping and frequent interchanging of partners. It is an easy dance since it doesn't really require one to know steps persay... (First Round. Difficulty 5)

"Please accept my apologies." The sloth says politely. "You should not be bothered by him again." In fact, she's concerned her request he depart was too subtle, but she also doesn't want to cause a further scene. But she does beam at the Bat-Skull. "I /am/ a rather cute sloth, thank you!" Looking back to the pair to make sure they're alright, and with that, she inclines her head to the pair and lets herself drift away. All is well.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask seems quite thrilled with the prospect of dancing with the Blue Rose if her smile is anything to go by. When he murmurs to her, she nods, holding his hand with fingers laced. as they approach the Hawk. She curtsies to him with a dip of her head. "I am wishing to fly free like the butterfly on the dance floor," she says.

Someone wearing a white deer mask looks between bunny and firebird before setting down her half-empty glass of champaign and stepping toward the phoenix. "And I'm yet growing into these legs. We'll be a terrible pair." Which sounds like a good thing by her measure. Shoulders squared, hand held out, she seems prepared to play the role of gentleman and take the lead, should her would-be partner accept.

Eliana has joined the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked stamina at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 10 higher.

Mercedes performs a half-bow to the Lady Sloth, crisp as any Oathlands knight ought to be with such things. "Thank you, my lady, for your handling of his transgression. You are too good given that I disrupted your party. Please accept my apologies." Upon rising, her hand goes out and clasps the mead on offer from Skull. "I am working but... I can breathe in the fumes, at least. Thank you, my lord."

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask has left the Lower Middle Row Seating.

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 13 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 59 higher.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 19 higher.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask tsks gently and nudges at the armored man with a grin. "Well then, Lord Shark... since the dancing is out... shall we pick out our next set of victims? Perhaps the skull, or the paired lions? That would be a challenge for such an apex predator as yourself." Each shift of her seated position draws another tinkling tune from the dangling jewels she's cloaked in along with the whispering susseration of feathers that drift about her. Those inquisitive eyes pause briefly on the dancefloor with a faintly wistful sigh. "Confessor Artiglio was supposed to dance with me... sadly, it would seem that will not occur now."

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 21 higher.

Someone wearing Gold and Black Wolf Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 9 higher.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak looks toward the Golden Finch and actually drops toward the sighing little birdy. Is it any wonder that he's seeking out someone whose dressed up like a bird? The hawk host dips his head and offers, "My lady, you look quite sad. Come, fly and soar across the dance floor with me?"

Someone wearing an adorable white silk bunny mask with pink and blue accents hops, skips, twirl-whirls. And the tipsy little bunny giggles while on her way out --

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask offers his hand to the deer with another loose inclination of his head to rabbit. "The next time perhaps?" His attention shifts and fixes on his partner. "Well. If I'm too short and you're too spindly, which you aren't, by the by, perhaps we'll muddle somewhere middled."

"Are you?" The skull chuckles. "No lord here, though I do have a title. Technically it's Blessed'." His mask is designed so that he can drink through it, so he takes a sip. "Are you finding any fascinating intelligence in amongst the partygoers?" He glances after the sloth. "That's definitely the finest dancing I've ever seen from a butterfly--"

"I would be honored Lord Hawk. I always have had a fondness for the hunters of the sky." The Goldfince smiles and slides a hand into his, joining him on the dance floor.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses beams to the Butterfly as he leads her out onto the dance floor, and lays one hand on her hip. "You will most certainly float tonight," he says to her with pride, before he sweeps up her hand in his free one and begins to sweep her across the dance floor in time with the music. He is nowhere near as trained as she in this art, but the two of them float along with exacting grace, following the rhythm of the music.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 6 higher.

Someone wearing a white deer mask has left the Front and Center Row Seating.

3 Rough and tumble sailors leaves, following Someone wearing A beautiful half-face sparkling blue sea-dragon mask, adorned with glimmering rubies.

Someone wearing a white deer mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 17 higher.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 27 higher.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth nods his steel head toward the skull and his pairings. "I'd say those are easy ones. Definitely inquisitors or confessors of some kind. They'd be a good start." A gauntlet touches to the Peacock's shoulder as she bids her forward this time. "Lead on then, I'll be taking you under my predatory apprenticeship for this next one." He practically slapped her on the back as he was already moving toward the skull and co. with lady in tow, despite his words contrary to it.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 53 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask holds her head up high as she and Blue Rose take their initial stance, he with his hand on her hip, she with one hand upon his bicep, the other still laced with his. The music plays and soon, he is whisking her away across the dance floor. Her emerald toned silk skirts flare out around her legs as they move, making the butterflies the dress is adorned with seem to take flight.

Someone wearing Gold and Black Wolf Mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 11 higher.

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 9 higher.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked charm + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 33 higher.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 12 higher.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked charm + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 20 higher.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets checked charm + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 16 higher.

Someone wearing a white deer mask's wide smile peeks past the sides of her mask once more as her offer is accepted, as she and the firebird make their way toward the other dancers hand in hand. "If you're as deft with your feet as you are with your tongue, we'll be just fine." Without missing a beat, she's prompt to sweep him into familiar steps, taking those antlers rather seriously despite her dress, gender roles be damned.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak glides across the stage and leads the lady in the Goldfinch Mask, offering toward her, "Your outfit, remarkable. I happen to like yellow..." He smiles underneath his hawk mask, lips visible. He seems to have a wonderful partner though as she clearly shows him up on the first stages of the dance. He smiles, "Little finch, I wonder whose eyes are behind the mask?"

Mercedes draws herself tall and upright with the mead cradled high -- so she can breathe its notes in, as threatened. No drinking, also as promised, but it seems to ease the tension which had collected across her shoulders, all the same. "A great deal of intelligence. Not all of it fit for sharing with blessed company," she deadpans as pale eyes move restless over the dancing crowds. "What draws a skeleton into such revelry?"

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 55 higher.

Someone wering a Gold and Black Wolf Mask leads his partner onto the floor again, this time for the dance off! For now, his feet are following the measure of the song and he seems comfortable with the music being played. "See? This isn't so bad." He tells the fox, famous last words.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 11 higher.

Someone wearing a white deer mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 14 higher.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask laughs at the comments from her Shark companion, giving a nod, "As you wish, Lord Shark!" Rising up, the white peacock lets out a laugh at the near 'push' she receives from the Shark, glancing over her shoulder to offer a softly spoken response, and then she's off! Lifting up the hem of her feathered gown to lead the way farther up the stands towards the Grinning Skull and his companions. Its at this point, her bare feet are more noticeable, with the gown pulled up to avoid stepping on it.

Eliana has left the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask moves lightly in the arms of the man in the Hawk mask. "Isn't that the mystery? Should I whisper it to you and ruin the fun?" She asks, teasing coyly. She seems more than comfortable following his lead and making him look good while she does it.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask is not, in fact, even as deft on his feet as he is with his words, but clumsy as his steps are, they're roughly in the right order and he doesn't bruise any feet other than his own. He laughs, a small patter of a thing. "Think we're managing to middle, at least, if I think you're the more agile. In every way, in fact."

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask follows the wolf's lead, doing her very best to not actually look down at her feet as they move through the steps of the dance. "No, so far it is quite pleasant." She agrees, looking amused, and possibly prepared for this to end with bruised toes and twisted ankles.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses seems, for the moment, in the element of the dance, though perhaps he is taking quite a bit of inspiration from his partner. The pair make their way about the dancefloor, and at some point in the music, the Rose tips away so that he can lift the Butterfly's hand and twirl her about, so that her skirts flare out and the butterflies that adorn them take flight. It is something that makes the Rose laugh with a joyous sort of sound as he tugs the Butterfly back into him and continues on.

The girl in the black and red jacket with the plain white rabbit mask will silently make her way out of the area. Her full wine glass left behind her at the table she was loitering nearby.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak hmms under his breath as he easily takes in the country dancing, the steps loose and fancy free, "No, I shouldn't wish to ruin the fun. Perhaps if we do well enough, at the end of the masq." He turns about as the music is coming to the end for the round.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets dances with the Lion, she moves very good to start off, she moves along with him, there costumes flashing in golds and browns.. Laughter escapes the brown haired woman as she twists and turns, her eyes on just her lion deeply focused on enjoyment

"Heh. No reason the living should have all the fun," says the skeleton, taking another sip from his drink. "My cousin sponsored an exhibit here in the aviary, I thought I might turn up and support the cause. And maybe watch a few ridiculous people making themselves ridiculous; a skeleton also enjoys a good joke as well as the next man."

Someone wearing a lovely silk peacock mask with blue-green gems and colorful feathers may be late to the festivities, but that isn't going to prevent her from enjoying what is clearly a grand party in full swing. She slips gracefully into the amphitheatre, smiling lips revealed as her own, and tries to pick out the familiar form of someone or other she might know, disguised or otherwise.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask spins under Blue Rose's direction, round and round as he holds her hand up above her head. She joins in on his laughter, the sound bubbling up from within her in a giggle. When he pulls her back to him, she resumes her posture, slippered feet moving almost effortlessly over the floor.

The first round of dancing is coming to a close and it looks like no one has been tapped out by the judges! It's not surprising, they haven't even warmed their boots yet! The musicians make a slight pause and transform the sounds into something more lively, nothing that requires athletic skill just yet, something that is a common theme to all those in Arx. A little of this and a little of that. A blend to represent the Arvum well. A little faster than the theaterical music earlier, to start testing those dancing shoes!

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

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth seems content now to loiter amongst the guests not engaged in the dancing, making sure people have nibbles and drinks, or are enjoying the small animals being presented for them to observe and touch. The Hawk has the dance contest in hand, and the night is proceeding at a pleasant clip.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 6 higher.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 27 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 32 higher.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 17 higher.

Someone wearing a white deer mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 8 higher.

Someone wearing Gold and Black Wolf Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 5 higher.

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 7 lower.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 2 higher.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 1 higher.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth huddles in close with his Peacock companion as they make their ways to the upper row of seating. There, the Shark's maw is directed pointedly toward Mercedes and the Grinning Skull there within. "I see someone has already lost." His gruff tone carries over toward the unmasked Inquisitor before casting his jeweled gaze back toward the skull. "I recognize the coat, Skeleton-man. That's gonna make you easy to pick out, you know."

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets checked composure + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 26 higher.

A judge comes over toward the Gold Fox masked lady and taps on her shoulder, to indicate that they are out of the competition. That leaves four couples left.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 28 higher.

"Supporting your family is good," Mercedes opines. Her wrist tilts, the goblet of mead swirled before her to release more of its aroma. "Charity is good. Ridiculous people not so very good but at least you're not in the plural yet there." That last might emerge with a hint of less steely, teeth-grinding nerves. Not that she's found a smile as of yet. Oh no. Not that. Far, far too busy lifting her eyebrows at the shark. "Perhaps I spoke too soon," issues forth drily.

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

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked charm + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 10 higher.

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

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked charm + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 26 higher.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 25 higher.

Moving a little more slowly, the Goldfinch seems to consider the Hawk's offer and smiles at him under her bird mask. "Assuredly, I will happily tell you who I am at the conclusion of the night. That's the least I could offer." She winks and moves closer.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 6 higher.

Someone wearing a white deer mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 15 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 5, rolling 65 higher.

Someone wearing a Gold and Black Wolf Mask laughs when they're tapped out in round too. "Clearly I spoke too soon. Lets go back and get more drinks." He doesn't seem terribly put out by their elimination. Dipping at the waist, he'll lead them out of the pack and towards some of the seats.

And it was going so good, but an ornate gold fox mask did warn him that she was a bad dancer. So it is no surprise, to her, that they are tapped out, "I did warn you." She points out, laughing before following him towards some of the seats.

"Hello, sharky." The grinning skull tips his head up. "Do you suppose I should have tried harder to obscure my identity? I don't think it's much of a mystery, what with the death's head and all." He waggles his glass, takes a third sip, and then glances back at Mercedes. "I mean, you never know."

Someone wearing an ornate gold fox mask has joined the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing a white deer mask leads fairly well, compensating for each of her partner's off-tempo steps as if this isn't her first time doing such a thing. Even with the mask hiding her features, it's not hard to see that she's not the least bit annoyed, verdant eyes delighted behind the white leather mask, the corners of her lips just barely visible. "We are not in competition with one another, my fire-feathered friend." With a slight incline of her head that threatens to wobble her antlers... and thus promptly has her straightening again, she adds, "And you are not without your grace."

Someone wearing Gold and Black Wolf Mask has joined the Top Row Seating.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets checked composure + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 1 higher.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask drops into a curtsy before Mercedes and the Grinning Skull, raising up to smile brightly at the pair. "Good evening! My companion seems to know you both already, but I do not, so rest assured that your identities aren't entirely blown yet!" She looks back to the Shark Lord and grins at him. "You didn't say you already knew them! That *does* make the hunt much easier on you." She fakes a sigh, then looks back to the pair with a smile and shrug, "But I am always happy to meet new people!"

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets checked charm + performance at difficulty 10, rolling 22 higher.

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

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses moves effortlessly with the increase in tempo of the music, his arm wrapping about the Butterfly as he leads them both into the dance. He tilts his head to whisper something to her in a foreign language, a smile on his masked face as he sweeps her around. Though he doesn't seem exactly skilled in the art of dance, he is nimble and refined enough to move with his far more learned partner, moving to dip her back across his arm at one point in time with the music.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak looks over as the first pairs are tapped out of the rounds, smiling, "At the end of the night will work." His face is still flushed but at least he's not overtly trying to push her away, adjusting when she gets closer by arranging his hands how he's been taught to do so. "The Whisper House helped me dance..." He notes with a touch of a grin, "In fact, I think the very lady who taught me is present tonight."

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth quickly shakes his steel head, breath wafting through those steel teeth akin to the sounds of gravel rolling down a hill. "I don't, I just recognize the colors. Inquisition types. The big fuckin' skull on his head does kinda tell you something. Very righteous fire kind of look." He taps his companion on the shoulder as he gestures a gauntlet toward her. "This is my friend, the White Peacock. I'm afraid I don't recognize your face, Lady." The Shark gestured toward Mercedes, his hand then moving onto the Grinning Skull. "I'm also dead surprised neither of you just broke that Karadoc fellow's teeth for copping a feel in the middle of this cluster-fuck."

Someone wearing a lovely silk peacock mask with blue-green gems and colorful feathers slips around the edges of the dancefloor, such as it is, paying some attention to the contest, but more mind to those of slightly more stationary assembly. As the Wolf and Fox are dismissed, she offers the couple some polite applause for the sake of their participation.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask tilts his head back enough to laugh a little wild. "Now, now. A charming gloss around my little deficiencies is one thing, but you need not resort to flaming lies." His dark eyes stray up to the deer's antlers. "It is an interesting choice of mask, if I may say so." He steadies his steps, once again barely keeping up. "Don't see much play of that sort."

The second musicial stint fades out, with the transition picking up in energy. People better get ready for it! There are no breaks in between the dances! Originating from the Crownlands, it's a quick paced piece of music that requires one partner to frequently lift the other and obviously meant for those of a more athletic bent.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask seems to come more alive as the tempo of the music speeds up. As Blue Rose leads her in the dance, she adds some of her own unique flair to her moves, her hips starting to shimmy in time to the rhythm, a small turn on the tips of her toes allowing for that movement. When he whispers to her, she tucks her chin down slightly, looking to him through the holes in her mask with a bashful smile. It is but a moment before she is back to her true form again, head lifting. She moves away from him a step, hand still on his arm, just so she can sashay towards him in that hip swaying fashion if hers.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 21 higher.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 12 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 33 higher.

Someone wearing a white deer mask has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing a white deer mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 16 higher.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 10 higher.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 lower.

Mercedes draws herself up again only to perform another of those crisp-edged Valardin half-bows. You can take the woman away from her princess title, but some airs remain. "Dame Mercedes Valardin, in service to his Majesty's Inquisition," she confirms. Upon straightening from the bow, pale eyes shift to the peacock for study. "I cannot say I know any of those standing with me, my lady. But I am very sure it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. My apologies for the situation earlier, if it disrupted your enjoyment of the festivities."

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask laughs happily. Energy! That is something the Goldfinch can get behind. "I confess, my brother taught me most of what I know. I've never been over fond of dancing, but it's easy to feel light as a feather with such a charming Hawk."

Clearly the white deer has outleap her dance partner, leaving the Firebird masked man to catch the eyes of the judge! Whether it was a forgotten step or a break in form, the tap out comes to the Firebird couple. On the otherside of the stage, it seems the Lion and Lioness are also being tapped out, the judge coming alongside the Lioness and asking them to move off the stage.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 38 higher.

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth appears satisfied by how the masquerade is turning out, and having made sure the non-dancing guests are enjoying themselves, takes a moment to get off her feet. Taking a seat, a little motion under the hem of her skirt indicates she may also be taking a break from wearing shoes.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 17 higher.

Someone wearing a white deer mask can't help but laugh as well, caught up in her partner's mirth, though hers is a quiet thing, bright and brief. "With all the pretty peacocks around, I wasn't sure anyone would notice." It looks, for the intensity of her evergreen attention on the other side of that mask, that she might have more to the thought, but the tempo picks up, and she's quickly distracted trying to keep up... and only barely managing. Poor stag has failed in her duties to lead in her efforts to simply keep up.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked composure + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 19 higher.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked charm + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets smiles as they are tapped out and he takes her hand, "Come let us find a seat and sit down." he takes her hand moving them to find a place to relax, "I will have to talk to Karadoc later." he says softly to the Lioness.

Someone wearing a golden brown lioness mask with red garnets looks to the lion as she trips over his feet, well... she lasted until the third round and that was not so bad. She laughs as she reaches out to him as he catches her. "oooh." she breathes before she leans in to kiss his lips gently to hers.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses casts a glance over his shoulder as the Deer outleaps her partner, before he looks back to The Butterfly and beams a smile to her. Underneath the mask, his emerald eyes alight, and he swings his partner about the dance floor in time with the music. He takes cues from the others when necessary, putting his hands upon the Butterfly's hips and flexing a touch of muscle to lift her off her feet, adding a touch of a spin to it to leave her floating through the air, before he sets her feet back upon the ground once more.

An introduction overheard using a familiar name makes the woman in the colorful peacock mask's head turns toward Mercedes. There is a moment wherein the exceptionally observant might note that her beaming smile otherwise falters, but it is mercifully brief. In the next breath, she returns to her calm grace and proceeds to place herself somewhat near the woman in the Sloth mask and asks lightly, "Has anyone offered you any refreshment?"

The dancing continues and the demands are taking their toll on the pairs! There's no breaks after all between the set music. One has to be agile enough to continue with the flow of music. The stage is getting emptier and a few more disappointed pairs exit the stage. The longer people are out here, the more grueling it will be! This time as the music changes, it becomes apparent it is a more noble piece that requires a prancing footwork and many more daring changes with ones partner. The flashier the better!

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask nearly loses his balance altogether, and certain loses his step, his timing. The tap-out's no surprise, even if deer's still doing rather well. "Peacocks, hm, it's a stealth kind of play. Folk will assume you've chosen the feathers for ornamentation. Suppose the antlers are ornamentation, too - but you can dress as a doe. No one comes as a female peacock." He does go on, rattle on, as he steps back from the dance floor.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 28 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 12 higher.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 7 higher.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 15 higher.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 9 higher.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked charm + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 5 higher.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 23 higher.

"I'm not an inquisitor, just a skeleton," the grinning skull says with an easy laugh on his breath. He toasts the newcomers with his drink and adds, "Though I do try for the fiery righteousness, whenever possible. Hello, Lady Peacock!" He sips. "I'm quite charmed, I'm sure."

Lord Flitzwilliam, a Red-Tailed Hawk arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing Gold and Black Wolf Mask before departing.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked composure + performance at difficulty 20, rolling 38 higher.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask is lifted up in the air by Blue Rose, a spin added to the aerial maneuver that sets her feet swinging out a bit before he sets her back on her dainty feet. She laughs, the sound full of absolute joy. She reaches for his hand, holding it in hers as she spins out away from him, dancing apart but hands held together, up high. Her feet start to move swiftly, knees bending slightly to make her hips shimmy, the butterflies on her skirts fluttering, the chains on her dress jingling. Somehow, despite all the movement from hips down, her shoulders remain almost still.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak is apparently a much better dancer masked than he was many months ago! The Hawk Host is ensuring his little finch doesn't get lost with his lead and together they are flowing through the music like birds of a feather. The Hawk gestures to man in the blue rose mask as they pass eachother by in the competition. If the Hawk Host is up for any dexterity, he's showing it in the prance and twist of his partner, gliding and skipping them along as the music dictates.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets moves off the dance floor and looks around moving to get a drink he stands whatching the others dance, the Lioness coming to whisper something to him he nods and brings her hand up to kiss it in a farwell. He lets out a soft sigh and turns to watch the dancing again enjoying it, it seems.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth gave a roll of his eyes, even if it'd be obscured by the gems that dot the sockets of the shark. "Oh yes, I forgot. We entered the word of sparkles and make-believe in here." Heavy armored arms spread out wide to gesture to the whole room that was filled with animals, some colorful some not and some dancing even! Peering back around to Mercedes, the Shark's jaws set close as her introduction clearly perks some curiosity. "An Oathlander at a party ball, and a god-fearin' one at that. I'd like to say that's a rare combination, but so far you haven't taken anyone's head in righteous crusade yet. So I'd say you're doing pretty well for originality's sake." A deep and raspy chuckle echoes from the inner confines of his mask. "Glad to see you stand up for yourself against that fuckin' creep."

No more partners are tapped off the stage this time! So the musicians take that as a cue to challenge the best of them. The band turns into a Thrax inspired jig! Fast, intense, needs a lot more charm to make it look pretty and composure to make it look better than some drunken foolery! (Then again, isn't that the point?)

Someone wearing a white deer mask corrects, "Peahens. Not half so pretty as their male counterparts. They--" As in women. As if she weren't one. Nevermind the dress, the breasts, the voice, all the hallmarks of femininity. "--never are." Even once their dance is over, she keeps close to the firebird, though she will relinquish his hand, stilling within arm's reach if not in physical contact any longer. Though she keeps an eye to the remaining dancers, most of her attention is yet upon him, curious. "May I ask after your choice?"

Someone wearing a white deer mask has joined the Front and Center Row Seating.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 10 higher.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 50 higher.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 2 lower.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask has rolled a critical success!
Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 25, rolling 83 higher.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask might not be ready for a jig in her floor length gown, She stumbles a little, still laughing brightly and looking up at her Hawk partner.

It doesn't look like the Goldfinch can keep up with the Hawk this time and the judge comes up to them and waits for an opportunity to tap them out, rather than being bumped into by the merry energy it requires to dance to the music! That leaves only one couple remaining on the stage! The winner who are allowed to finish their victory dance across the stage in Thraxian Jig style, are the man in the Blue Rose painted mask and the woman in the Bronze Butterfly Mask! The applause rises as the Hawk Host turns to his partner and bows and then lifts his hands up to lead the chorus of appreciation for the winning couple!

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak before departing.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak before departing.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak puts Vanilla Cherry Blossom Bliss in a pink gift bag.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak drops a pink gift bag.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask flashes a grin towards the Skull and inclines her head, "The pleasure is mine, Master Skull! I apologize if I'm using the incorrect appellation, but the masks do make it difficult to determine rank or title." LOoking over to Mercedes, she bobs a nod, "Well met, Dame Valardin! I have met your... cousins? Prince Edain and Princess Alis. Lovely folk." Looking back to her Lord Shark, she laughs and shakes her head. "And yet, I managed to talk you into coming here tonight. My powers of persuasion must be more formidable than I supposed, Lord Shark!"

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses takes the increase in tempo and challenge of the rhythm in stride, not hesitating to flow into the more difficult steps that the dances require. Though, it would seem that the Blue Rose was not the star of the evening - he was merely there to help the Butterfly shine, and seems to enjoy every moment of it. He was so lost in the dance, or in his partner's entrancing movements, that he didn't realize people were clapping for quite some time.

"It's early yet, my lord. A good righteous crusade takes a little time to get rolling," Mercedes says, dry as deserts but deigning to allow a little uplift at the end, a jest made of solemn statement. There might even be a hint of smile, there and gone again in the shift of a glance between those arranged before her. "One hates to be disruptive," adds the Inquisitor, whose life goals include disruption, intimidation, and maintaining order through fear, "but there are limits. Thank you for that sentiment. Ah..." Seeing as how Skull there is proving a capable drinker, she offers over her glass of mead. "They are lovely folk," she agrees, "and if I see them soon, I'll pass on your admiration. I should be back to the House of Questions. Again, a pleasure."

Someone wearing a lovely silk peacock mask with blue-green gems and colorful feathers claps rather robustly for the winning couple, as if by doing so she might be able to drown out some conversation or another nearby, if only in her own ears.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak gets A Lovely Pair of Turtle Doves from a pink gift bag.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak gets A Lovely Pair of Turtle Doves from a pink gift bag.

Someone wearing a white deer mask joins in the applause... until a try drifts past with more champagne on it and her fingers are suddenly occupied snatching a glass. Not that she bothers to actually drink any once she's claimed her prize, choosing instead to hold it, to give it an idle swirl now and then, to keep it as an anchor for idle fingers.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask claps for the winners and places a hand to her chest drawing a breath ans she makes sure her mask hasn't slide. "That was the most fun I've had at a party! Thank you Lord Hawk!" She beams and shakes her hair off her shoulders.

"No one comes as a peahen," the firebird reiterates deer's correction, lightly. He claps for the winners, then lets his feather-fronded arms lay loose by his sides. "Males have a different kind of strut, I suppose," he says, "in the animal kingdom. We can be whatever we want," he adds on a brighter wist. "And the firebird? Just a firebird, I suppose. Flames have exciting and mingled colors, wings make good robes."

Once the masked couple finishes their routine, the Hawk Host turns toward the crowd and raises his hands, "For the winning couple, I gift to them a pair of turtle doves and an item of their choice from the prize bag-" (the pink one). "Now... While the musicians recover from their long set, we do have an announcement to make! My Co-Host and I would like to present gifts for those we believed were the best dressed! Not to say that you all weren't, but the winners have caught our eye for one reason or another!" He looks toward the sloth masked lady.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak laughs toward Goldfinch, "You did amazingly well. That jig, that was so quick on the feet. I would've stumbled if you hadn't." He bows his head, "I shall like to talk to you more later, if you'd be pleased to do so?" But now he goes back to hosting duties. SAD.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets claps his hands together for those who danced and stayed in and won, once that is done he looks to the Hawk watchign and listening to see who wins best dressed.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask continues to dance with the exotic flair of the Eurusi style. With Blue Rose| providing her the inspiration and perfect partnership she needs to shine. It is some time before she realizes that they are the only two dancing partners remaining, and she begins to slow her movements. She is a bit breathless, her chest rising and falling as her swaying hips slow. She smiles to Hawk at the announcement and takes an elegant, shoulder shimmying curtsy. "Oh, thank you, Hawk friend... is my pleasure to be dancing, flying free!"

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask curtsies to the Hawk Host and nods her head deeply before moving off to find herself a drink to refresh herself.

Someone wearing an elegantly cheerful lady sloth rises to her feet, with another ruffle of movement under her skirt. Shoes back on! She makes her way over to the Hawk and calls out, "The Hawk and I have been paying attention to the lovely amount of detail that have gone into your masks, and we wanted to honor the man and woman we thought had the most splendid designs." With a broad grin, "First - amongs the men, we are pleased to both have agreed quite readily that the best mask of the night belongs to the Shark!"

"Oh, no. Now I have two drinks." The grinning skull holds up one in each hand. "Indeed? Lovely folk indeed. You know, the fact that the lady is here, being a Dame and not a Princess, might suggest a little diplomatic awkwardness there at the old family reunion," he asides to the peacock with a particular quizzical tremor in his tone. "Someone relieve me of one of these?"

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask gets A delicate, gentle perfume of lavender and vanilla, with hints of lovely violet and rose from a pink gift bag.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses is a little breathless as he comes to finish his dance with Butterfly, his cheeks a touch pink underneath the mask. He bends his head a touch to Hawk. "Thank you very much, my friend. But the dancing was all my Butterfly here,' he chuckles a bit, before stepping aside as the best dressed are named. He moves to murmur something to his partner.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth did not need a second reminder for 'drinks' to be snatching that glass of mead out of the Skull's hand. "Many thanks." He tips his steel head toward him before turning back to look upon Mercedes. "And a safe trip to you, Inquisitor. Your job is a fucky one to be sure. Don't let any other ass-grabbers mind your business on the way." Hearing the announcement however, the Shark immediately whirls around with a bit of surprise. Giant as he was, it was surprisingly easy to look a bit sheepish while clad in such intimidating attire. "I... Oh, really?" He says with a dip of his chin toward the Sloth and the Hawk each. "Well... Thank ya' very much."

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses gets Vanilla Cherry Blossom Bliss from a pink gift bag.

"And now, last but certainly not least," the Sloth announces, "Amongst the ladies, we had an extremely difficult decision to make. But ultimately, we feel the prize belongs to the White Peacock."

"So we can," the hite stag agrees, counting herself part of the boys' club. For the night, anyway. The answer to her question earns a critical appraisal of his costume, from top to bottom then back up again. "Mm." Thoughtful. "If it's about playing pretty, one might wonder what you were trying to attract." It sounds blessedly rhetorical, as if she's making an observation rather than actually asking after his type. With more prizes being announced, she lifts her glass, drinks, her attention turning to the others gathered, perhaps deciding how well she agrees with the judges' assessment.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak picks up a pink gift bag.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets before departing.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask applauds the predator and prey who won the awards for the best dressed of the evening. She lets out a loud, shrill call of celebration that sounds a bit like a high pitched, "lelelelelel", before she can stop herself. After, realizing what she did, she stops applauding and covers her mouth with a dainty hand.

A messenger arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets before departing.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak drops a simple velvet bag.

Mercedes performs another brisk bow before turning to exit the menagerie.

Mercedes has left the Upper Middle Row Seating.

2 Armed Confessors leaves, following Mercedes.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask lifts her head from where she'd been busy congratulating her Sharky companion when her own costume is called out. A dazzling smile appears on her face as she stands and lifts a hand to wave towards the Slothess and Hawk. "Oh, why thank you!! Thank you so much!" She looks up to the Shark and grins, "See? When we come to these events, good things happen!"

"Extremely difficult! There were so many stunning outfits tonight! In fact, I would like to give a few of you the honorable mentions! The white deer and the goldfinch, the wolf and the firebird! I have a few give aways for you four as well. (pick one item from the velvet bag!)" He nods his head, "For the winners, we have two luxury pieces of jewelry to pick from. A stunning turtle crafted armband and a horse pendant, designs in which I worked with the craftsmen on. I should like to give it to Ladies choice and Sir Shark, I should welcome you to take the second item. You may keep them, donate them, or gift them. It is my token of appreciation to all the efforts thus far put into our Menagerie!"

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak picks up How To - Dance Competition .

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses looks to Buterfly as she starts to shout in celebration, and joins her happily for the Shark and Peacock. Though, when she stops, he laughs and curls his arms about her, flashing her a bright grin.

Someone wearing a white deer mask gets A Sparkling Semi-Sweet Honey Mead from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask gets a small box of Corsetina White Tea from a simple velvet bag.

"Are masquerades about being pretty?" The firebird asks the deer, settling back on his slippered heels, his eyes focused a bit beyond them before he settles back. "It's always a nice surprise to find interesting, new conversation, hm? That's what I'm trying to attract, I suppose. But I'm mostly dressed for me, as I imagine you are for you." He startles as he's named as an honorable mention. "Well! I will have to let the designer of my costume know," he says, warmly. "Thank you."

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask gets Black Iron Serpent Band from a simple velvet bag.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask chooses the tea and smiles her thank you to the Hawk Host, curtsying to both hosts before picking her drink back up to refresh herself.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask picks up Champagne Silver Turtle Arm Bracelet Encrusted With Green-Blue Apatite Stones.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth picks up Black Sapphire Neodymium Horse Pendant.

"No," the deer tells the firebird. "Not entirely. I wondered if I might find something with teeth." And aren't there? Look at all the predators prowling the amphitheatre. She flashes a smile, watching as he accepts his honorable mention before bowing in gracious acceptance of her own. From the assorted prizes, she goes right for the booze, all bright and golden and bubbly, held tightly by its neck.

Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask takes her companion's arm to step lightly down to claim her prize. She smiles brightly at their hosts for the evening and seems to look over both items before finally settling on the turtle armband with a grin. "I think this one suits me. And the coloring on it is amazing. Thank you again!" Looking to the Shark, she lets him take the other before leaning in to whisper something to him before chuckling.

A string of finely decorated young men and women flock into the masquerade, wearing silky white and golden garb with long tapering flowing material draped between their arms to simulate wings. Each figure wears a white mask that glitters like starlight and trimmed by feathers. They float through the crowd with a specific theatrical and graceful glide, spinning and turning, even dancing around each other in playful whimsical movements. Each beautifully decorated individual are clutching a pair of white doves. They're angelic in the way they float and prance. Those doves they carry are gently transferred into the arms of guests who are receptive to them, coaching each person how to gently hold the dove with a murmur to hold them until the grand release.

"Ah! Ah." The firebird takes a long stare around, slipping the black iron ring on his hand, idle. A little void of color to contrast with the color. "Well, there my dear, deer?, I cannot help you. I have no teeth. Even my beak isn't real. But I see some vital fanged fellows hereabouts."

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak turns toward those receiving their prizes and gifts, "You're welcome. I find it a joy to give back." His eyes flicker toward the decorated young men and women flocking into the masquerade, a sign for the finale of the hosting duties for the evening.

The sloth lady lets out a breath of satisfaction as she watches the delightful dancers, and then claps when the doves are released. "Very well done." She compliments the Hawk, noting contentedly, "I hope the Menagerie reaps the benefits well."

Once the arms of all the performers and dancers are freed of doves, they flitter and swirl their way into acrobatic formations near the crate to the side of the stage. They tumble and leap, like ballet dancers, some being hoisted up in another's arms and twirled, others climbing on the shoulders of another, until they are all in some way presenting themselves in a dramatic formation before the crate.

Someone wearing a silver shark mask with steel teeth absconds with the second half of the jewelry, the Horse pendant wrapping around his wrist as he looked at it from the pitch-black slits that made up his eyes. Looking back toward his fair Peacock companion, there's almost a hint of a smile where his chin is exposed beneath the metal. "Hum. Well, came, saw, got free booze, got a shiny prize. Successful outing, I guess. You get my gratitude, use it wisely." He pushes on her shoulder with a snicker.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask takes a dove gingerly and cuddles it to her chest as she coos to the bird to keep it calm until it's meant to be released. Her eyes flit from mask to mask still trying to pick out who might be present.

Someone wearing a painted mask of blooming blue roses blinks a few times as he is handed a dove, following the careful instructions of the attendant on how to cup and hold it. He seems enamoured by the little bird, tipping his head to peer at it curiously, before he looks back to Hawk for any additional directions.

Someone wearing a feathery hawk mask with a sharp beak checked command + leadership at difficulty 15, rolling 17 higher.

"Not enough hunger," the deer replies quietly to the bright bird beside her, as if the prey beast had any right to be so discerning of her predators. When the doves come out, she doesn't seem particularly interested. However, when someone approaches with one that she might hold? Then she nearly drops her mead in excitement. Carefully, she sets it down beside her before taking the bird gently, green-eyed gaze flitting between the feathered beast and the hawk-asked man. She might hold it a little close to her. She probably isn't thinking about keeping it. Nevermind the little cooing sounds.

Someone wearing a bronze butterfly mask seems a bit surprised as she takes the dove handed to her. She nods, her hand trying to soothe the feathers of the bird, and the emotions if it seems frightened.

The masked hawk that is the host of the event, Prince Aiden appears before them, to gain the attention of the audience with a flourish of his own arms and a bow. "I hope you have enjoyed the evening thus far and encourage you to remain as long as you desire. The musicians will play on until the last dancer leaves the stage."

His voice is surprisingly filled with energy to reach even the top seats, a gentle power that grabs attention, "Now I ask you to share in a moment to remember all those who couldn't be here to dance with us tonight. With the release of the doves, we commemorate their sacrifices for the hope of a brighter future for those they leave behind. Because of them and those of you still with us who fought just as strongly and continue to fight, we have been given this chance to embrace life, share in love, and celebrate all the goodness that surrounds us - for these moments are what we strive to protect. And in the madness of our grief, remember those we lost soar with us, that we /will/ see them again." He pauses to let those words sink in and stride across the stage, "It is also us up to us to make sure we make this world a better place than when they left us. The Menagerie is just one small project in the whole of what we can do and what we can achieve." He moves toward the covered crate and tugs on the silken sheet, billowing it out to his opposite side to reveal a filled bird crate, all with doves within - the birds already in a fluster. "So with their release -- remember today is our day to dance lightly with life, sing wild songs of adventure, soar your spirt, and unfurl your joy--!" and then he reaches for the hatch to lift up the lid of the small enclosure...

In a sudden furl of white feathers, the doves start to escape and fly! They soare for great heights in a whirlwind of flapping wings. Aiden's arm lifts up to signal the release and the performers all draw to a knee and bow their heads, with their arms interlocking with one another as the birds scatter to the winds. The crowd is encouraged to release their own doves in symbol of memory and hope!!

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask takes the dove, cautiously, if firmly, his expression, mostly obscured, gone faintly frownish under the mask. He's released the dove almost as soon as he has it, indeed, just before the prompting. His expression eases, then. To deer, under the background flicker of flapping, "You want danger, then. Don't think this is the place to find it, a fine open-hearted celebration like this. But you never know. Can find a sniff of shadow anywhere."

Serenity arrives, delivering a message to Someone wearing a silken pearlescent white peacock mask before departing.

Someone wearing Goldfinch Mask releases her dove with a smile and watches all the doves fly off looking content. She sweeps her hair over her shoulder and reaches for her drink now that her hands are free.

Someone wearing an exquisite silken lion mask with red garnets lets his dove into the air watching fly off his eyes remain on it as it flys off, "For you brother." he whispers and then looks around looking for the Haek.

Someone wearing a white deer mask looks like she may well just hold onto the little birdy, one index fingers stroking the back of its lovely feathered neck. Lips drawing into a thin line behind her mask, evidenced in the way her features sink to either side, she lifts her arms and releases the thing before the whole flock is gone, rendering it straggler rather than loner. "We all know hunger. Feather or fur, scales or skin. It's something we all share." It's hard to tell if she's smiling when she looks back to the firebird, but the frown is certainly gone.

Watching the doves fly away, the sloth lets out a sigh of satisfaction, and then claps her hands to get everyone's attention. "Ladies and gentlemen...one final thing before the night is free for dancing and exploring as you will. On the count of three, we shall all lift our masks and reveal ourselves. Are we ready? One...two...three!"

Samantha reveals herself as the sloth. Shocking!

Aureth surprises no one by removing his skull mask.

Caelis slides off her Goldfinch mask with a breath of relief. She runs her fingers through her dark hair and shakes it loose with a look around at the others.

"Fuckin' finally." Victus lifts the imposing shark up and off of his head, beads of sweat decorating his forehead. "It was getting so damn hot in there." He said with a wry grin toward his former Peacock friend.

Someone wearing firebird ascendant mask keeps his eyes fixed on the white deer, the curl of her fingers around the bird. As if waiting. But when the bird is released, that faint hint of tension? anticipation? dissipates with its straggling rise. "Speak for yourself," he says, lightly, the ghost of a smile returning. "I've never known want, I've never known hunger, my life is one long grand contentment," well, the light invariably goes sardonic, there. "But that's what you're looking for. Someone sparking behind the mask." He glances aside at the sloth and scratches under the clasp. "Or without the mask, I suppose." He leaves his on for a moment more, glance inevitably, unfairly darting about.

Nisaa slips off her lovely bronzed butterfly mask, revealing her true identity, perhaps not a surprise to anyone who knows her talents.

Malik unties the blue rose mask to reveal himself, hooking the mask onto his belt. He looks about himself to see those who revealthemselfs as well, smiling warmly to all.

Cristoph removes his wolf mask, surprising everyone by not wearing a bee costume this whole time.

Nicia removes her fox mask, probably not a surprise to anyone that knows her two left feet to begin with.

Aureth smears his hand over his face, smoothening his beard, and glints a glance up towards the artist formerly known as sharky. "Only because you made such a handsome fish, my lord, I'm sure," he says dryly, tapping the skull's grin against the curve of his palm.

No one really has to make a guess about who is underneath the Hawk mask. Surprise, it's the Prince Grayson. Really, are you that shocked? Come onnnn.

Estaban slips offf the Lions mask moving to run his fingers through his hair looking around, he spots a few he knows and a few he does not know.

Someone wearing a white deer mask's smile skews left beneath her mask, still fixed to her face, her green eyes intently set upon the firebird. "Or without," she agrees. And yet, instead of stripping hers off to join in the big reveal, to make good on that comment, she dips down to grab her mead and starts toward the exit, taking her leave before anyone pushes the issue.

Fortunato removes his mask even as the deer departs before removing hers. He sighs, a bit depleted with his own revelation, but lets his dancing partner maintain her anonymity. Freedom, that way! He passes a glance over to Aureth. "Hi, brother. We meet again."

Freedom! Caelis finds a fresh drink, delighted to have the mask off her face. She sighs with relief. Her Goldfinch mask twirls on her fingers as she walks to one of the servers.

Aiden was looking over the crowd to pinpoint where the goldfinch went, cause he was certainly curious about his dance partner! Though the other curiosity is the shark, which has his silver eyes widen as he notes who it is. And then he smirks to himself, turning to approach, Caelis in fact. "So it was you underneath the mask. We have met before, haven't we?"

"Hi, Fortunato," Aureth says. He waggles his glass in his brother's direction, and then puts it down. "Enjoy the party?" he asks.

Someone wearing a white deer mask has left the Front and Center Row Seating.

Ysbail slips her white peacock mask from her face and grins up towards Victus, "Congratulations on surviving the Masquerade ball. I'm happy to come along when you're ready!"

"Oh, yes," Fortunato says, letting his bird mask dangle from his fingers. "Managed to have a nice conversation while being mysterious, but not /as/ mysterious as the other party." His smile is small, lopsided. "Perhaps I'll happen on her again. I'm going to miss Narciso. How're you?"

Estaban spots Aiden and Caelis and he heads in their direction, "Lady Admiral, Prince Aiden." he calls over to the pair as he gets closer, his eyes looking between them both a smirk on his lips.

Curtsying, Caelis nods to Aiden. "We have, your Highness. If in passing a few times. Thank you for the dance. I believe this would be the first party I have not fled for shyness." She confides with an easy smile. She turns that smile on Estaban as he joins them. "Lord Saik! Hello!"

Victus gave a roll of his eyes, something that could now be seen thankfully! "If ever I get tired of wearing the crown, I'll feel good knowin' I'll make a good bucket of chum too." He sweeps back the braided tails that made up his hair, his eyes sweeping back down to Ysbail now that she was unveiled. "First party I've been to without feeling stuffed into a fuckin' corner. Considering I was in a mask all night, I'm not sure if that's good or bad."

Malik touches Nisaa on the hip once she removes her mask, murmuring something to her and canting his head to her with a smile. Though, he looks to see where Aiden's gone and taken himself off to, reaching to take Nisaa's hand to lead her over to their friend. "Prince Aiden," he flourishes a bow. "I just wanted to be saying, this was a lovely party. And your dancing was very good," he grins, nodding over to Caelis after. "As was yours, my Lady. You were making it quite a fight to keep up, so that I am not disappointing Nisaa with my footwork."

Ysbail snorts and grins up at Victus with a lifted brow, "You really think that you won't gain some new interest now that people know you're capable of relaxing and having some fun?" Chuckling, she hooks her arm through his and motions towards the crowd, "Do you want to mingle for a few moments with everyone unmasked? Or would you prefer to leave posthaste?"

Nisaa stands with Malik, smiling as she looks out over the crowd. Masks come off one by one, revealing those underneath, some she knows, some she does not. Victus' words grab her attention and she laughs. "You did not seem stuffed in a corner when tossing people into the pool at Princess Birthday Party, if you do not mind me saying." Nudging Malik a little with her elbow, she almost whispers, "I helped Aiden learn to dance a little. And you, my artist, were wonderful. I need to make you dance more." She dips her head to Caelis then. "You were a lovely what is word for person competing against?"

"Do you ordinarily enter a party and immediately become surrounded? Actually, as an unmarried Prince, I expected that happens to you all the time," Aureth remarks reflectively, running his hand back through the loose fall of his hair. "I'll miss him, too. He sent me a posthumous letter. I'll show it to you sometime." His lips pinch thin. "I'd invite you to the funeral, but his father wants to keep it private."

Turning her smile on Victus, she curtsies to the Thrax High Lord before turning her attention to Nisaa and Malik. "Competitor I believe is the word. And I have never danced so determinedly in my life. It was certainly a most welcome challenge!" She tells them both and nods to them before draining her glass.

Samantha can't help herself, she spots Victus and can't help but indulge in a chuckle. "Your Highness. Lady Ysbail." She dips a curtsy to the pair, and remarks, "And now I'm going to sit again. With my shoes off." Thoroughly unrepentant.

Aiden's smile is growing brighter for the curtsying and the measure when Estaban comes up with a title associating to the woman, "I'm glad you didn't flee, I would have had to give chase. Too many had fled before the fun, unfortunate." He holds one hand behind his back, inviting them to take in the food and drinks, "I was shy at my first dance, matter of fact, one that I had with Lord Estaban's sister. I think... I have gotten over that." Obviously. He turns toward Malik and Nisaa as they come up alongside, "Hello my friends. I'm glad you enjoyed it and... was I surprised that it was you two who bested us? No, not at all. As Whispers, I should've known the event would go to you." He grins, "I did have a great teacher though." He winks at Nisaa.

"Competitor is it? I thought it was competing-er," Malik replies thoughtfully, before shrugging with a light laugh. He flashes a grin to Nisaa and gives his head a shake. "I am only dancing well because I was trying to impress you," he winks to Nisaa, before he looks to Aiden and beams a sile up at him. "She is a very good teacher, this is true."

"I'm a random acquaintance," Fortunato says to Aureth. "I'm not going to the funeral." He hangs the mask from his belt loop. "I think, next time, I am going to try to be really, aggressively, anonymous. Yeah."

Shifting his gaze from Ysbail to the door, Victus gives a little shrug. There was recognition on his face between the individuals there and those that would speak... Sure, they could last a little longer. "I was tossin' in the pool because I was -attacked-, Lady Nisaa." He barks in her direction, the cold chill of Katarina's ice bucket still lingering on his mind. To Aureth he says, "I'm buggered every damn day to find a woman to settle down with. Spit out kids and such. It's a nightmare sorting through ladies that are in it for the coin or status..." Ebony eyes then turn onto Samantha with a snort. "Oh, no shoes? You and Ysbail should have t he finest chemistry then."

"Stilts," Aureth suggests to Fortunato, like a jerk.

"Fuck you," Fortunato tells Aureth. Pleasantly."

Estaban smiles, "lady Caelis, yoo and the Prince danced very well together out there I am impressed." he smiles moving to put a arm out for her, "I am glad you did not flee as well." he smiles, "Care to grab a drink with me?"

Henrik arrives, delivering a message to Victus before departing.

Aureth grins toothily at Fortunato, not unlike his skull namesake, and then looks back towards Victus and the ladies. "I'd think you'd be beating the eligible off with a stick," he says, "particularly now that your fealty permits women to do things like own their own stuff."

"Yes, this is to be remembered," Nisaa says to Victus. "You were viciously attack-ed by the Princess. I was shocked and thought you might retaliate. How you did so was a joy to watch, even if I was a bit too nervous to join in the rrr... urr, raw. Rawk... urrr. Raucous times." She stumbles over the word, one not used often, her Eurusi accent quite thick on it, but eventually, she manages something close enough.

Placing a hand on Estaban's arm, Caelis nods. "Sure. Seems safer than how I spent my morning. Your cousin is a terror with that bow." She tells him and smiles up at the tall Saik.

Ysbail flashes a grin towards Samantha and lifts the hem of her gown to show her utterly bare feet. "It fit with the costume," she offers with a shrug and chuckle. Looking back up to Victus, she lifts a brow, "What is this about pool tossing? Did I miss something fun?" Looking over to Samantha again, she smiles, "Thank you for the appreciation of the costume. Both Mistress Petal and Mistress Sameera took on a rush ordre to make the costume happen. And it still turned out beautifully. Imagine what they could do with a decent amount of planning time!"

Fortunato frowns back at Aureth, frowns direly, then goes to get himself a seat. Just observe. Possibly nap.

Aiden looks clearly oblivious of what the pool thing was about as well, listening to the conversation and noting to Victus, "Is that why you came as a shark?" Who knows, he merely adds on a quick smirk to the end of that as someone finally puts a drink in his hand! He notes Caelis and Estaban quickly linking arms, smiling to them with the uncertain expression in wondering that they were to head off. He turns a little awkward, for a moment.

Malik chuckles at Nisaa and Victus. "I am remembering this moment too. But I am thinking the Princess enjoyed the retaliation," he says with a smirk, before he leans lightly into Nisaa to murmur something to her. He looks just a touch tired.

Heaving his shoulders back in a shrug Victus just states very matter of fact, "Princess Katarina dumped an ice bucket on me so I tossed her into the pool." He says it so bluntly as if it weren't an oddity at all. "I had a brief thought of doing something else, but that would be -silly-." There's a toothy grin that compliments that statement, as if the shark mask hadn't left his face to begin with. "Lots of people jumped in after that. Someone almost drowned, our Warlord got naked and broke his tailbone on a flop maneuver. It was pretty fucking fun! It gets a little foggy after awhile, I had too much to drink."

Estaban moves to grab two drink and hands on to Caelis smirking, "Something about bows run in our blood, what can I say. Grandmaster Armel rescently told me he l iked me better when i was not aiming the dam thing at his chest." he chuckles taking a sip of his drink.

"If you feel like losing to me in the training ring again we can try bows. You might have the edge at that." Caelis suggests to Estaban and smiles up at him before looking for Aiden. She nods to the prince, inviting him over with a gesture if he'd like.

Aiden is overheard praising Samantha for: For being an excellent Co-Host and Bouncer!

Malik is overheard praising Aiden for: For a wonderful party to be helping the animals!

Malik is overheard praising Samantha for: For being a very good co-hosting!

Aureth is overheard praising Samantha for: The cutest sloth there is.

Victus is overheard praising Aiden for: For hosting a party I didn't hate!

Victus is overheard praising Samantha for: For co-hosting the party I didn't hate!

Samantha is overheard praising Aiden for: He did a marvelous job running the event. The Menagerie has brought out so much in him!

Fortunato is overheard praising Aiden for: A masquerade I mostly kept up with!

Cristoph is overheard praising Aiden for: Hosting a party where I danced in public!

Estaban is overheard praising Aiden for: He held a amazing Masq ball!

Samantha is overheard praising Ysbail for: What an exquisite costume! No doubt the winner.

Cristoph is overheard praising Samantha for: Co-hosting said dancing party!

Samantha is overheard praising Victus for: It was a marvelous mask, even if the man under it...well.

Nisaa is overheard praising Aiden for: It was an amazing Masquerade and he wan an excellent host!

Ysbail is overheard praising Aiden for: Being a wonderful host and amazing dancer!

Estaban is overheard praising Samantha for: For being a amazing CO-Host for the MAsq Ball

Ysbail is overheard praising Samantha for: Hosting an amazing event and having a great mask!

Victus is overheard praising Ysbail for: Putting up with me as a partner.

Nisaa is overheard praising Samantha for: A lovely co-host of a wonderful event.

Cristoph is overheard praising Victus for: He should wear that mask to children's parties!

Nicia is overheard praising Aiden for: A great party!

Nicia is overheard praising Samantha for: Such a great co-host!

Cristoph is overheard praising Nicia for: Putting up with me!

Estaban chuckles nodding his head, "I think i would like that, not many seem to want to train with bows its always the sword." he wrinkles his nose looking over to Aiden with a smiles, "Come join us Prince Aiden."

Nisaa smiles to Malik and says to him, "I think my butterflies have all gone to sleep without me, and we should make our way home so that I might join them." She looks across to Aiden and says, "I am missing my friend, Prince Aiden. Perhaps I can be seeing you soon?"

Malik takes Nisaa's hand and offers her a smile. "Of course," he replies, before beaming a grin over to Aiden. "You should be coming by the gallery soon, Prince Aiden. We can have tea in the garden."

Aureth slips off amongst the crowd to head for the exit in the flap of his batty cloak.

Aureth has left the Upper Middle Row Seating.

Binky, an asshole crow, Gregory, an unassuming disciple leave, following Aureth.

Cristoph has left the Top Row Seating.

Aiden is overheard praising Victus for: Killer Mask.

Nicia has left the Top Row Seating.

Ysbail has left the Lower Middle Row Seating.

"It sounds like a worthy challenge with the archery competition coming up. I could certainly hone my bow skills." She chuckles and sips her drink slowly. "It was quite a fun night even going solo. I saw you and your date in matching masks. That was lovely." She tells Estaban brightly.

Fortunato drifts in the lee of his brother's bat shadow.

Aiden nods his head toward Nisaa and Malik, "Very soon, I should be quite so lonely now with no masquerade to plan for! Or good company to return to at home. Tea sounds fantastic." He smiles to them, eyes shifting to Estaban, "You'll be training with the bow? Well... I suppose if I'm going to join in ... an archery competition, I... I should try to raise my bow again."

Victus stretches, looking toward the exit as he gives a final glance at his intimidating mask. "Thanks for the shiny shit, Prince." He nods in Aiden's directions, the giant of a man stepping away from the fray. "Got shit to do, so I'll be off here. Keep safe, yeah?"

Victus has left the Lower Middle Row Seating.

"I will be holding you to that, Prince Aiden," Malik says to the Prince with a chuckle, before he bows in departure. "Please be having a good night," he says, letting Nisaa say her goodbyes before he walks out of the ampitheater with her and into the night.

Cristoph sighs with a bit of good natured reluctance and takes Nicia's hands, helping her to her feet as he too stands up. "I like your dress, by the way." Then he'll lead them through the seating and crowds out to the exit. He keeps her close to him as they travel out of the party, occasionally leaning over to say something quietly into her ear.

"Oh, it's not mine. But it's rather nice, isn't it?" Nicia wonders, a hand resting against the front of the dress, looking rather pleased with the compliment as she follows him out.