Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Chou chou rheastar on 10-10-2017, 08:03:11</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chou chou rheastar</strong> on <strong>10-10-2017, 08:03:11</strong>
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				<div align="center">(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t3cG5tMXr24/VeRiwVrijaI/AAAAAAAAA_0/mC0mLvL2o2M/s1600/ent.jpg)</div><br>Exactly at the time your invitation said to be there the gates to the castle open, leading you to a long drive where you are dropped off in front of the huge double doors. Those doors open as you approach and you are greeted by liveried footmen who gesture you into the hall and offer to take your coat. The halls are decorated in extravagant style, thousands of candles flicker and crystal chandeliers shine. Crystal studded skulls and crows are tucked into nooks and corners as black roses and orange marigolds are tucked into lush garlands along the walls. Tasteful fall decor follows you along the long halls as you walk towards the main ballroom and suddenly you are greeted with the bright light of hundreds of crystal chandeliers and glowing candles inside the ballroom itself. <br><br>You enter the vast ballroom and see gorgeous painted ceilings, more exquisite detailing decorating the old castle walls, and at the front of the room on a dais stand the Count and Countess. As the room fills up the anticipation mounts, so many people with their masks and finery stand around you and excitement fills the air. The Count and Countess step forward as one when the clock strikes the hour and you can see smiles adorn their mask covered faces.<br><br>"Welcome!" The Countess speaks, the room hushing as her words reverberate through the room, "I am so honored you all chose to come to our Annual Halloween Ball." The Count takes the Countess' hand and steps next to her.<br><br>"Please let us begin dancing immediately! We will open the banquet in a few hours and then after we eat you will be welcome to wander the entire castle or dance all night!" The Counts voice carries equally as well and they both stand regal at the front of the room before descending the stairs at the same time, the music begins to play and it is then you become aware of a full orchestra. As the Count and Countess begin to dance you are free to find a partner and join the crowd. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>10-10-2017, 18:18:51</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging:&nbsp; -<br><br><hr><br>Candlelight, so much candlelight, it filled Elia’s eyes with stars, and made them glisten and shine from within the eye holes of her fey-light butterfly mask. The mask itself sparkled, reflecting the candlelight and making it seem like the upper half of her face had been dusted with diamonds. So too the bust of her white gown, a relatively simple thing by the impeccable fashion standards of much of the crowd. Elia dressed like some fairy tale princess who had just run off into the woods, fleeing some evil stepmother or predating huntsman, with the gown’s dress in a deliberately many-split, almost tattered looking, style. <br><br>If some god had seen fit to spray a coat of glittering diamond dust upon her face and bust, as it seemed in the refracting candlelight, so too her silvery-blue eyeshadow and her sparkling lavender-shaded lipsticks, and her high heels. The high flashed as she walked, despite her small-stepped gait. A gait for stalking up and down catwalks, more for being seen than for doing anywhere in a hurry.<br><br>Eila was in no hurry. She was basking in every sight and sound. Even the powdered scents of the others a wonder. She found herself staring at ceiling paintings. She lost herself imagining she were some lady hundreds years ago, seeing a Sistine Chapel freshly painted. Then nearly bumping into someone reminded her to keep going. <br><br>She felt her nerves, snatched a glass of champagne from a passing servant, a rather handsome lad at that. She drunk it down, less daintily than she perhaps ought have, and the next servant she passed was kind enough to relieve her of the empty glass. <br><br>She marveled at the ballroom, and especially at her host and hostess. She had heard fantastically decadent rumors about them, and hadn’t thought much of it then - talk was cheap, words were wind - but somehow, seeing them now, in their lair, she could believe it all. <br><br>An orchestra? Dancing? Oh dear, this would be something more than the gyration that passed for dancing at a DJ’ed magazine launch party, Elia supposed. Then again, she had years of ballet under her belt, or rather tutu, and her father, ever eager to present her a debutante, had gotten her some practice at ballroom dancing. Her teacher had been a nice lady too...a very very nice lady...Elia suddenly had a guess what had been involved in her father selecting the tutor. She let out a giggle, then hastily held the back of her wrist before her mouth to quiet it. She took the next offered champagne glass, and used that to preoccupy her lips from any more errant giggles. <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>11-10-2017, 02:02:51</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h164/ybfchic/August%202015%20Part%20V/xe7.png)</div>Name:&nbsp; Markus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging:&nbsp; -<br><br><hr><br>Markus Jerome Cade had to admit he was a bit awestruck as he peered thru the darkened limousine window. The lightweight boxing phenomenon had been to some impressive homes as of late, from manors to mansions, but nothing visited before held a candle to the massive sprawling estate that was the Castle home of Count and Countess Daough. Markus was thankful for the natural pause the precession of expensive and luxury vehicles gave as each drove up to the red-carpeted entrance and deposited their renowned occupants. It gave M.J.C. the much needed time to stomp down the trepidation and growing anxiety that was natural when one stepped out of their comfort zone. This wasn't just high society, this was nobility; the ultimate circle of elites within this thing called Civilization. When your bloodline has been on top thru out centuries, that's saying something.<br><br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/07/2c/e3/072ce358a93c0201be6125842da2b4d4--anubis-symbol-anubis-tattoo.jpg)</div><br>"I got this..." Markus Cade said to himself as he withdrew the blue gold jackal mask with an ornate ankh centerpiece between the long ears and above the eye holes, from its decorative box and donned it. The white Egyptian silk shirt that open wide in the front displaying Cade's muscular chest, dark and equally fine pants and a pair of blue and gold matching sandals completed the look. While shopping for the right outfit for this ball, one of Markus's lady friend had texted him, <em>'Don't try to be one of them because you're not. Be you, be exotic, and you will belong in your own way'</em>. The Jackal, as he was known in the ring, decided to heed the advice. Leaving behind all thoughts of finery M.J.C. went for simplicity. The look of an Egyptian Warrior or Slave adorned for personal battle or pleasure; ready for whichever might present itself. Still, as the attractive brawler stepped out of his Limo and made his way inside he couldn't help feeling a bit underdress and unimportant. The finery of the ballroom was exquisite; the costumes on display as fine and colorful as anything he had seen. Each guest telling their own story as they hide from the normal world to indulge their wildest fantasies.<br><br>It took a conscious effort not to immediately turn around and head back outside or slip out of sight into a dark corner and hide out for the night. Markus would have been more at home in a Vegas Nightclub or at Chocolate City in Atlanta, GA... Hell gambling in Rio or running a mile on the white sand beaches of Thailand; What was before the fighter was a challenge. Social in nature but a challenge nonetheless but Markus Jerome Cade had been overcoming difficult situations his whole life and this would be no different. It was at that very moment that the Gods decided to help the young man out as an extremely attractive party goer, dress to the nines and built like a supermodel walked pass. All thoughts of retreating from this Ball faded as Cade's eyes followed the woman, looking her over from marvelous head to delicate toe. Completely aware of her effect on the newcomer, the unnamed Lady turned and smiled, her face adorned by a decorative and colorful mask. Twinkling eyes that asked in a single glance, "Do you like what you see?" before giving a seductive smirk and disappearing into the crowd. It was a game changer and as M.J.C. started to pay more attention he started to realize that she was one of many and all the reasons he had decided to honor this invite started to come back to him. These Masquerade Balls, he remembered, are notorious for their "after hour" activities and the type of people who let it all go when the masks come off. <br><br>Voices, that seem to fill the chamber, radiated from the center of the ballroom. The tones were commanding but pleasant and all activities ceased as The Count and Countess welcomed their guest. Both were strikingly beautiful people with raven colored hair. The Count a slender man just about Markus's height with piercing dark brown eyes takes his mates hand; the Countess herself smaller in only stature, not presence, moves in synch with her man as they issue forth the commands of dancing and merriment. As a full orchestra enchants the ballroom with an open song the regal pair take to the dance floor as the first of many. <br><br>It was at this moment that Markus Cade gave thanks for his gruff old trainer who, after watching the young Boxer in the ring at the start of his career, had decreed that the soon to be known Jackal had all the grace of a dusty punching bag. Gifted with no sense of rhythm and leaded feet, the wise mentor had promptly walked the aspiring fighter across the street to Lady Agatha's School of Dance. There Markus was indoctrinated to various routines in an effort to teach the clumsy boxer how to move well enough not to get his face smashed in. Grueling hours learning step after complicated step had done the tricked, not only had M.J.C., a natural athlete, become a talented dancer but he had learned how to move his feet independent of conscious thought so that he could focus on his opponents in the ring. This reason alone was why Cade hadn't the myriad of facial scarring that afflicted most boxers, such as broken noses and oddly shaped ears; he just was too damn hard to hit. Yet now, other than thinking he might have a chance on "Dancing with the Stars" did the Boxer realize that his ballroom dancing skills might be of some use. <br><br>All the Anibus Warrior had to do was find himself a partner... 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vlexia</strong> on <strong>11-10-2017, 03:10:11</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a9/e0/ca/a9e0cad0f1fe82aadad6f95ed69dc14d.jpg)</div> <strong>Name:</strong> Isobelle<br><strong>Location: Ballroom</strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Gown</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/UT8dpECXPdaXXagOFbXx.jpg_640x10000.jpg)<br></div></div><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Elia <div class="floatright">(https://sites.create-cdn.net/siteimages/5/0/3/50308/93/2/8/9328459/747x1000.jpg?1416057531)</div><hr>Like a feline in her natural environment, Isobelle felt the eager growth of excitement as her pearlized Cadillac Escalade Limo waited in the long line as guests were escorted up to the massive steps towards the mansion. This...<em>this</em> is the type of high society she belonged within, the type of living she was used to. Being the daughter of the Ethiopian Ambassador, and the Princess of Fashion of the Country, the woman was sweetly spoiled and incredibly wealthy.<br><br>Her gown was made of champagne silk, a low cut an elegant fitted garment of her own creation that was completely backless, exposing the smooth expanse of her tanned back and delicate spine. Her heels were gold with actual emeralds embedded across the straps that wrapped around her ankles, the jewels matching the set that hung from her ears. Isobelle was someone who relished any opportunity to display her exotic beauty as her eyes were almond shaped and curved in an almost Oriental fashion, the pupils like peeled grapes, and high and sharp cheekbones supported her facial structure. She was made taller by her heels, but was really a shorter woman, only standing at around 5'5" naturally with long chocolate curls that were currently bundled up in an intricate updo that put her swanlike neck on display. <br><br>Oh, yes. Miss. DeAlmeida was beautiful and she knew it, making it clear when her door was opened and her hand clasped onto the fingers of a servant who offered her assistance. The entirety of the right side of her face was covered by an ivory mask that weaved its way through a maze of crystals, a stark contrast to her caramelized fleshtone. She nodded to the man who helped her with a smile before walking up the steps with shoulders back and chin high, her confidence rolling off the thick curvature of her form in waves. The doors were opened, and she was inside.<br><br>The sights and smells of fall were everywhere, and she was astounded by the resplendence of the place; the paintings, the decorations, the furnishings...this was where she belonged!<br><br>Isobelle moved through the crowd, making eyes with both the beautiful men and women who stood on either side of her, her emerald gaze smoldering as she wordlessly invited them to come find her again later in the night. <br><br>There was no question where this event would eventually lead.<br><br>The ballroom was full, and after the Count and Countess greeted everyone with the invitation to dance, Isobelle helped herself to a passing tray that contained long-stem crystal flutes filled with bubbled Champagne, and once the music began she scanned the room before being distracted by a giggle beside her. Turning more to her left, she observed the fairly-like woman smiling to herself. Her hair was like snow, her skin an alabaster marble, and she seemed already influenced by the single glass of alcohol. She was beautiful, model-esque, a sight Isobelle was always seeking for her next runway show. But tonight wasn't about business....it was about pleasure.<br><br>"Hello," Isobelle said sweetly and boldly as the woman helped herself to a second glass on a passing tray. She took a sip and almost purred at the quality. She moved closer to the woman until their perfumes mixed in a heady and delicious plume of sensuality. "This is incredibly exciting, have you been to an event like this before?"
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>11-10-2017, 04:13:25</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Isobelle<br><br><hr><br>Elia smelled her before she knew the scent was a her and not an inanimate delicious dessert. Her stomach rumbled - not an uncommon thing when one ate like a model had to eat, even if ballet and youth burned a fair number of calories. This rumble was like a bit of a tightening too, like the proverbial butterflies in the stomach. As if her own mask had been mistaken by a swarm of butterflies for one of their own, and they’d somehow ended up swallowed down into Elia’s stomach instead. <br><br>Elia raised a hand to try to get the attention of a liveried attendant, so she could ask him what rich confection she smelled, and could she have one - or maybe even <em>two!</em> Then she realized the scent was not an it, but a her. Yes, most definitely a <em>her</em>. Elia’s blue eyes fluttered up hourglass hips clad in cream gown, to equally notably curved bust half clad in same, to a face shadowed by an interestly asymmetric mask. Her eyes fluttered up quickly enough not to be rude as such, but not too quickly to be noticed, she realized too late.&nbsp; <br><br>Ah well, she herself was masked after all, that and the champagne gave her some courage. Elia’s own mask, a thing of many crisscrossing curls and not solid in the least, did rather little to hide hint of flush - also borne of both thoughts - alcohol and thoughts.<br><br>Elia was still lucid enough to heed the words. Her mask sparkled as she turned to face the other woman. “No!” she chirped in excited reply, her voice much less poised. Then she caught herself, and spoke in more measured cadence. “Not in the slightest, nothing like this. I feel very inch the debutante.” Every inch, as it happened, was that Elia was much closer to six feet than five. Yet she still seemed a small thing to many, for the height was mostly legs, and she was narrow of limb and waist, with bust and hip enough yes, but still growing. Her heels were high as she knew how to walk in, too. Yet for all that, it somehow seemed to Elia it was the other woman who loomed larger, like a wildcat looking down from its surveying vantage upon a tree branch.&nbsp; <br><br>Elia went on, “I am E-.....excited, quite, just as you say, miss, and - .”<br><br>The liveried man she’d half-indicated had seen enough to come over, and he was bearing confections much like Elia had at first thought she smelled.&nbsp; <br><br>“- hungry”, Elia interrupted her own train of thought as she noticed this. Elia’s nostrils were still full and tingling with swirled perfumes, and quite contentedly so - and the sweets looked appealing too.&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>She rationalized to herself, aloud, “I suppose it’s an occasion, and I ought have something to absorb the champagne.” They were dainty things anyway. Elia plucked up one which seemed like a firm little cup of swirled cream and caramel, twisted about one another in an artful converging spiral, topped with flecks of almond, and a bit of powdered sugar which almost glittered. <br><br>Elia took the little morsel down in one bite. Barely a bite, practically just a swallow. She washed it down with the rest of the champagne, her lipstick leaving its silvery-lavender glint on the edge of the glass. “That was very sweet,” Elia commented, “One mouthful but whets the appetite, all the same.” <br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Esmeralgirl</strong> on <strong>11-10-2017, 06:54:57</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft"> (https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ40nzdTwRD_5SMMgeHzjusJCf6mshR6ITkJaD-3WAbQi1iE2Brpw) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Kore <br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dress</div><div class="spoiler_body"> <br>[img height =400]https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/imagesq=tbn:ANd9GcStiMyqeF08Fiu_PFUxqYmTmQtr6Ws52eXfsaEGKEn7Xdn3LZou_A[/img] </div></div> <br><strong> Tagging: </strong> N/A<br><hr> <br><br>As Kore rolled down the window of her sports car, she could see the long line of guests which was going inside the castle and could hear the soft music mixed with small chatters of the guests. For a few seconds she remained seated in her car, doubting her ability to blend in and fear of being recognized, ridiculed. This was the type of environment she was supposed to grew up in and have friends but fates has decided something else for her and now sure was scared. Throughout the night, few friends she has, have been texting her, telling her to be herself. Knowing it was the opportunity of a life time, she finally clicked the door open and stepped out of her car. Talking to her conscious, she took large and careful steps towards the castle. Just as soon she stepped inside, the Owners of the placement were addressing the guests and she smiled a bit at their words. <br><br><br>Eyes started to roam around to have a small, calculative look at everyone, taking in their ensembles and she smiled at the fact that she was dressed properly atleast in her long red gown and black heels. Naturally she was tall at 5'9" and heels made at stand at around 6'2" and she could easily look into the eyes of almost any other girl as they pass by her. Living in an exile has made her socially awkward but she could very easily study the demeanor, body language of people. Her eyes fall upon a couple who were dancing together and sipping on a flute of champagne she smiled as she realized that soon one of them or both, will probably be cheating on each other and may not be together after this night. Next she saw few more people chatting, acting friendly but hiding the hatred for each other. Shaking her head off these thoughts, she tried to enjoy the ball instead, for which she was here. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eikichi</strong> on <strong>11-10-2017, 18:40:33</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/ac/Eikichi_Characters_44.png)</div>Name: Stephen<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: ----<br><hr><span style="font-family: times;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">Lord Becket had decided to abandon his carriage, and much of his entourage, at the gates of the castle. Using the gathered crowd as the perfect distraction for the bulky semblance of figures who wanted to set themselves up amongst the Lord for nothing more than its name-sake. It was a rather disgusting tradition, in Stephen’s humble opinion, though that was thanks to his own personal bias which craved the independence that the country had allotted him for so many years. Some might have balked at the Lords bachelor status, but that was simply another hazard of his time in the countryside where there were no nobles or regals to be married off to. That’s not to say Lord Becket didn’t have his fun, but none of those he’d associated himself with would have been anything close to marriage worthy in their rather single-minded aristocratic society. If he’d even raised such ideas he balked at what his brother might have done, or what foreign waste-land they would have shipped him off to.<br><br></span></span><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/16/cb/f5/16cbf55faf52994c2477afd5671cc270.jpg)</div><span style="font-family: times;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">But that’s what not tonight was about. He’d accepted the invitation to mingle with those he’d now be sharing some time and company with; but in truth the masquerade ball was his excuse to rid himself of his new title and find himself amongst less savory characters. To bring back the excitement he’d been deprived there these long two months of lord-ship. To complete the façade the Lord had thrown out his original ornate gold mask, leaving it in among one of the many bushes along the drive and instead opting for the raven mask that he’d hidden amongst his attire. With this, not only would it give him the anonymity he craved but it made it unlikely for the entourage he’d just ditched to be able to readily find him. Hopefully it would give the Lord just enough time to get involved in something that got his heart racing again.<br><br>Of course his heart was racing, he had no idea of just how excited he’d be to actually be free again. Even if that freedom was for just a few brief moments before he ended up being sprawled back into a life of complete annoyance. Once the black raven mask was fasted around him, he tightened the straps into place and then began the arduous tasks of ascending the steps into the manner to see what exactly all the fuss was about. Part of him was tempted to begin wandering the castle to look for something entertaining, but being a social creature by nature he naturally began to follow the flow of guests who were making their way out of the main hall and instead gathering in the ballroom where the Count and Countess had begun to dance. <em>‘Huh’</em> He cast a side-long glance at the dancing couple before noticing the few stray members of the crowd moving to join them on the floor. He, however, was not the type to allow his feet to guide his whims. So instead the Lord remained blended into the crowd, taking tentative steps around the dancefloor and watching the various guests who were gathered, seeing if there was anyone who might catch his interest. Otherwise, before he ended up dragged into a dance or running into some entourage, the Lord was contemplating simply leaving the ballroom all-together and just heading somewhere else a little less.. crowded.</span></span>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ArtemisHighmore</strong> on <strong>11-10-2017, 20:49:45</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://www.duchamplondon.com/duchamp_blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/aiden-shaw-6.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Open, Mentioning Elia<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Outfit</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b7/26/e5/b726e50a805a2b3dc61a60b5b5d5ff2e--aiden-shaw-summer-campaign.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>William had spent far more time debating on coming to this event than he would ever care to reveal and he wasn’t sure why the decision had been so difficult. Was it because it wasn’t just going to be him and the countess catching up about old times? He suspected that was the main reason but the other might be that he had only recently returned home from a recent book tour and really hadn’t been expecting such a grand social outing so soon. One needed time to recharge the batteries as it were, especially when you were starting to swing towards the upper spectrum of age like he was. Still he had settled on going, deciding that at least showing his face, perhaps greeting the countess if the opportunity arose, would be enough to show that he remained who he was, despite the years that had passed between them.<br><br>Now here it was, settled in the bucket seat of his dark grey ’66 Shelby Cobra, one of the few things in his life that he considered a toy. He had never been big on flaunting wealth, buying big flashy things so that the neighbor could look over in envy. Hell the only reason he had this was that he had come across the aged hull during a road trip and couldn’t pass it up. A lot of love and hours had gone into this baby, fair amount of blood too. He’d almost been tempted to take the bike to the event but had decided that he should at least show up somewhat presentable so as not to embarrass the hostess by making all the guests think she was inviting savages.<br><br>Purring the motor lightly, he drew even with the carpeted entrance. Spotting a man approaching that he expected was the valet, he reached to the passenger seat to snag his mask, pulling it into position before grabbing his white coat. A smile flicked across his white whiskered face at the valet’s comment of a nice car, handing the man a few bills. “Try not to go too fast with it. The back end can be a bit… loose in the corners.”<br><br>Falling into step with the collection of guests moving up towards the door, he checked his mask and tugged on his dress coat over his knit sweater. Glancing around he looked quite underdressed for this event at least that was his first thought given the outfits of some of the women. Then he spotted what he what he thought might be a Halloween costume and chuckled to himself. Apparently he had missed that part of the invite. Well at the very least he would be comfortable and not tugging at his collar all night like he usually did in some of the fancier suits that were required for such decadent revelries.<br><br>As he moved into the ballroom proper, a wily smirk tugged at the right corner of his mouth. It was good to hear that the various stories he had heard about the balls that were held here were accurate. To say the place was lavishly furnished and decorated would have been a sad understatement and possibly even an insult. After his cursory glance, he tucked off towards the wall to his left as he heard the host and hostess speaking, both surprised and pleased by the flitting feeling he felt at the sound of her voice. It was always good to know that some things didn’t fade. After the second tray of champagne had passed, he caught the attention of one of the serves, requesting a few fingers of scotch if they had it. To his delight and silent relief, a glass arrived shortly with the requested beverage. Sipping it, his grey eyes peered through the openings of his dark, wolfish mask as he resumed scanning the crowd, entertaining himself for the moment with trying to guess who or what each did by their posture, phrasing or dress. It was like doing a character study but far more amusing. There was a doctor… that man might be or had been military given the straight back posture. There was a pixie… and there… wait… pixie?<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HoodedStranger</strong> on <strong>11-10-2017, 23:39:40</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/f2/80/4e/f2804e8fbb9839cb88e859f9d8e2741a--christian-grey-christian-bale.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Sebastian<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Costume (on the right):</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c9/86/a6/c986a671b4bc7d37dcf0501f1e55fc28.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>Sebastian simply adored these wonderful social functions, his friends', the Count and Countess held annually. They never seemed to fail to impress or withhold any of the stops. He observed countless men and women dressed in their finery and exhibiting the best and brightest in various fields from medicine to sports. He leaned against one of the balustrades overlooking the milling crowd of people below, his vision narrowed by the holes cut for his eyes. <em>Such wonderful inventions, these masks. Allowing us to act out and be whomever we desire to be without having to worry about the stigma or negative views that would come if others knew exactly who we were beneath them.</em> He let an appraising eye run slowly over the women, ranged in attire from dresses that concealed nearly nothing to those who revealed only slips of flesh at the neck or a spot of cleavage.<br><br>He began to close the distance to stand behind the Count and Countess as they bid greetings to their guests and their plus ones, his gloved palms resting within his pockets, head tilted slightly so that his vision remained unimpaired from the mask. He followed them down the stairs, hand running along the smoothly polished surface, lifting a gloved hand to examine the white fabric for signs of dust and smiling behind his mask at the lack of residue upon his fingertip. He made his way to one of the corners with a clear view of the room and watched as the various guests followed the lead of the hosts and took up the dance floor, the orchestra a steady backdrop to the ebb and flow of conversation as guests moved past him. He crossed an arm behind his back and reached for one of the wine glasses from a nearby server's tray, lifting the bottom of his mask to raise the cup's surface to his lips and tilting it to empty the contents down his throat. He sighed contentedly, his nerves soothed for the time being, handing the empty cup off to another nearby server. <br><br>Curiosity drew him to the nearby entrance and it was there he stood, arm crossed behind his back, the blue of his coat and jacket a stark contrast to the rest of the guests and finery of the space. His gaze watched through one of the nearby windows as guests continued to file into the ballroom, handing coats and jackets to staff as they eagerly moved to join the dance. He could feel the music call to him and he did his best to ignore it, no suitable dancing partners having presented themselves yet. He knew he made an imposing figure, his trim and fit figure outlined beneath the expensively tailored costume, his long legs stretching into a pair of expensive, matching blue dress shoes.<br><br>"The gazelle and antelope have arrived," He mused to no one in particular. "Now the lions can play."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chou chou rheastar</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 01:02:01</strong>
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				Name:&nbsp; Countess Mina<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Markus<br>Titus and Mina (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E_u21VRet_o/S-hMK0lYR3I/AAAAAAAAApU/iaWkszaUpds/s1600/JoanAllenPhoto_RedDress.jpg)<br><hr><br><div align="center">https://youtu.be/hYycUpUSiSI</div><hr><br>The Count and Countess finished their dance and the orchestra paused for just a moment for people to find their partner before they changed to a waltz. People were starting to fill the ballroom and the beautiful costumes, some Halloween some just glamorous, glinted and glistened in the candlelight. The Count and Countess went separate ways and the Countess approached a man with an Anubis mask on, Mina knew who most of the people where since it was she who had hand written each invitation to all who had come tonight, but she always made sure to let herself forget who was coming so she would enjoy the anonymity of the evening.<br><br>Very familiar even with people she didn't know the Countess stepped up to Markus and placed both hands on his shoulders, her small frame standing close enough that her skirts swirled around his legs as she moved forwards. <br><br>"Dance with me," Mina murmured with a smile, her dark eyes gazing up at Markus through her black lace mask. Her skin was dusted so it looked like it shimmered with diamonds and her long curling dark hair cascaded down her back unbound. She used her body to guide Markus towards the dance floor and as the music started she slid one hand down his shoulder and arm to take his hand , "I assume you know how to waltz?"<br><br>If he didn't know her body and hands would give him enough ques to follow so that he could lead reasonably well but she wasn't worried about it. Her eyes flitted over the gathered crowd, catching at some people she was sure she knew. She would visit them after her dance. Her slender body melded with Markus' and yet still maintained the appearance of perfect dance poster and stance.<br><br>"How do you like our castle?"<br><br><hr><br>Name:&nbsp; Count Titus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Elia<br><br>As Mina went off to find her next dance partner Titus scanned the room, nodding absently to Sebastian as he moved away to mingle. He cast his eyes over all the glittering people in their ballroom with a soft smirk, he never knew who his wife invited to these balls. Sebastian was obvious because he had just come and changed here at the castle before the ball had started, but everyone else was a mystery, just the way he liked it. He prowled past a servant bearing a tray of champagne and took a flute, sipping it as he observed all the people milling about. You could tell those who had been there before or were comfortable with ballroom dancing because they were already dancing and cavorting away, where the others were standing to the sidelines and downing alcohol to calm frayed nerves. Titus gave him empty glass to a servant before coming to stand before a beautiful blonde pixie and her leonine companion with a flourish and a bow. He held his hand out of the blonde and smirked at them both.<br><br>"I apologize for the intrusion ladies, might I steal your partner for a dance?" He addressed the question to the lovely lady with the cream backless dress, his hand already reaching for her companions.&nbsp; He pulled her into his arms, she could turn out of them easily if she decided she did not want to dance and began to move them towards the dance floor as the waltz began to play. "Do you know how to waltz?"<br><br><hr><br>Name:&nbsp; Hudson<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Isobelle<br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/42/a3/5a/42a35abe713de6973b48c08310d19270--bearded-men-dont-care.jpg)</div> <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">costume</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/2b/d0/d6/2bd0d682c42f9eab7a107e3e2f0cc518.jpg)</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/16/ac/e5/16ace5367f9e9629bae9f9fd0da47828--raven-mask-mask-ideas.jpg)</div></div><br>Hudson had never been one to care the kind of image he gave to the media, especially the media in the States, as his family never listened to what they said anyway. His family wasn't much for rumors or social stigma either, they had established themselves well enough in the limelight and social sphere that they didn't need to worry about what others thought of them. So, he roared into the castle grounds on his 1952 HRD Black Lightning motorcycle, it was his current baby as only 6 were left in the world and it had been a limited run before the company had been post WWII. When he pulled up to where the valet's were Hudson wrinkled his nose and with a shake of his head and a muttered, "no fucking way" he drove and parked his motorcycle where the cars had been parked by the valets, ignoring their cries of irritation. <br><br>Hudson dismounted, a massive man he towered over almost anyone he met, and took his helmet off revealing his long hair pulled back in a viking warriors braid. He left his helmet with his bike and growled at the valets as he walked to join the throng of people entering the castle, "don't touch my bike!" The castle was beautiful and massive, one of the more beautiful homes he had seen while in the States but he wasn't as dazzled by it as some might be. His own family had many castles back in Scandinavia and he was a movie star who had been to many gala's. But it was very beautifully and tastefully decorated, that much he would admit. Making sure his mask was securely placed as he stepped into the hall he smiled at all the people ohhing and awwing over everything.<br><br>Once in the ballroom a asked a server if he could get a whiskey before he started looking for a dance partner. He was prepared to dance quite a bit before the after dance party started, he knew how these balls worked and was looking forward to trying to wear himself out. Once he was brought his tumbler of whiskey, no ice as he didn't want to water down the good stuff he knew would be served here, he made his way towards a pair of ladies who looked very gorgeous from behind. One was blonde and looked ethereal in white but as he stepped up behind the ladies the Count asked her to dance, as he was very intrigued by her friends cream dress Hudson was not fussed by this and lay a massive hand on her back between her shoulders. <br><br>"Hello, care to dance?" He reminded himself to not simply whisk her onto the dance floor without first asking Hudson looked down at the beautiful woman before him. Her skin was mesmerizing and his long fingers stroked gently at the skin of her back absently, his bearded face smiling like a jolly giant behind his mask. "I love to waltz for the first dance," it was true, he had been brought up learning all sorts of ballroom dancing and was able to do most of them even in his sleep or very inebriated. Hudson stepped forward as the music started, willing to lead her in the dance if she accepted his request.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Szandor</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 03:57:23</strong>
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				<strong>Name:</strong> Chester William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Foyer, then Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Stephen, Open<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/4d/69/51/4d69511ee6d4578c7537017edf8d1276--victorian-steampunk-victorian-suit.jpg)</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/45/3a/96/453a96300491beb4376bca4391987646.jpg)</div></div><hr><br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/c6/e4/17/c6e417f57bbfbad77352d6b90dfe3484--mads-mikkelsen-beautiful-men.jpg)</div>To arrive with the flock was to arrive unnoticed, so Chester William chose to arrive slightly late and without anyone accompanying him. He first saw the foyer. It was immaculate. Despite the rambunctious party that was going to happen during the night, the host had gone to great lengths to make everything look as delicate and expertly placed as possible. It was gorgeous, for lack of a better word. Chester appreciated the foyer for a few more moments, to gather his thoughts more than anything.<br><br>Chester plucked at the strings holding on his mask, and moved his hair a little so they were covered. Tonight he would be walking into a room unknown. That was new. Usually is he walked into a banquet hall people would whisper, they would wonder why <em>he</em> of all people were at this fine establishment. Chester hardly said anything at those parties, but he wondered if this one would be the same? Would the mask create some sort of unseen wall between his identity and those speaking to him? Likely not. He didn't like to speak, even at the best of times, but perhaps his actions would speak louder than his words. Perhaps he would dance with someone pretty, be it man or woman. That was a possibility.<br><br>The illusive man took in a deep breath, then made a beeline for the ballroom. When he was greeted by the staff he nodded, hands clasped behind his back. The man looked to the expansive room, and nodded his silent approval. This truly was a palace. Absolutely stunning, not a fault in sight. The candles hardly flickered, there was nothing remotely close to a scratch on any surface, and everyone in attendance was having as much fun as one would expect. Possibly more.<br><br>Chester took a glass of champagne from a tray being walked around, and sipped at it. He watched everyone in the crowd from the sidelines, and pursed his lips. The man wondered if anyone here would recognize another, if that would create some sort of scandal. Chester certainly hoped so. He eyed a man passing him. His mask depicted that of a crow, and behind Chester's own dragon mask he cocked an eyebrow. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 04:13:49</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h164/ybfchic/August%202015%20Part%20V/xe7.png)</div>Name:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Markus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging:&nbsp; Countess Mina<br><hr><br>Markus's eyes were still wandering over the ballroom in search of a partner when one presented herself to him. Slender and delicate fingers found perches on broad shoulders. As a female form moved in close, a recently familiar voice beckoned, "Dance with me,". <br><br>"Umm..." Was just about all the Boxer could get out as he realized who it was that had just latched on to him. "...of course." As if by magic a servant appeared and relieved M.J.C. of his beverage. The man did so in such a way as to silently say, <em>'You won't be needing that.'</em> before disappearing as quickly as he came. The Countess moved the larger man as if by force of will alone. Her body pressing and motioning in such a way that Cade found himself on the dance floor within moments, led almost subconsciously. The woman was, even more, enchanting up close. Dark brown eyes that seem to capture any and everything peered thru a&nbsp; black laced mask. A smile that said more than Markus could presently understand etched a lovely face, crowned with dark curly hair. With each step she took, her exquisite formal dress moved like water, it's red fabric making almost no noise as it seemed to entwine between Markus's legs without ever tripping him up. <br><br>As Mina took hold of Markus's hand and inquired about his ability to perform a Waltz, some measure of 'wit' and 'self' returned to the Boxer. Moving his hand to the center of the Countess's back Cade took the lead, dancing with his Hostess in graceful series of spins that kept them in perfect rhythm with the slow and soft melody the orchestra was now playing. Lady Agatha's lessons, taught at the end of a painful yardstick for missteps, started to come back to Markus in inspiring waves and confidence as improvisation started to show in his footwork. Countess Mina expertly mirrored his every move, her body close yet formal; inviting but unreachable due to the status and station. Still, as Markus spun his Hostess, her raven colored hair passing inches from his face... he wondered. <br><br>"How do you like our castle?"<br><br>"You know the phrase Countess, wait till you see the inside? That would be an understatement." The pair glided across the floor passing other guests who danced in an out of their way; the entire ballroom now alive and moving like a single entity. Some glanced at Markus, almost all took notice of the Countess. "Your home is lovely, I do appreciate the invite. Please share my thanks with the Count."&nbsp; <br><br>As M.J.C. continued the Waltz he couldn't help but become intoxicated by the scent of the Woman. It was bewitching, dark notes of wood mixed with the floral fragrance of jasmine or rose... perhaps both. Thoughts of removing the blue and gold Jackal mask simply to bury his face against the Countess's neck was strangled to death by the realization that Cade might not wish to be thrown out of the ball just yet. <br><br>"Do you have these events often or is this a special occasion?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vlexia</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 05:08:20</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a9/e0/ca/a9e0cad0f1fe82aadad6f95ed69dc14d.jpg)</div> <strong>Name:</strong> Isobelle<br><strong>Location: </strong>Ballroom<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Gown</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/UT8dpECXPdaXXagOFbXx.jpg_640x10000.jpg)<br></div></div><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Elia, Hudson<br><strong>Mentioning</strong>: Stephen, William, Markus, Sebastian, Chester (respectively)<div class="floatright">(https://sites.create-cdn.net/siteimages/5/0/3/50308/93/2/8/9328459/747x1000.jpg?1416057531)</div><hr><br>The unapologetic way the woman looked down her frame did not go unnoticed by Isobelle, a free spirit who welcomed attention from any and all. She brought her flute up to her full painted lips to take another sip of her champagne, her delicate throat muscles working it down to warm her belly and flush her skin with a rose hue that was not entirely the alcohol's doing. The other woman was a classical beauty, a tall creature who seemed sweet but also slightly out of place. No matter, Isobelle was used to such events and took an immediate hungry liking to the girl...in more ways than one.<br><br>When a passing servant came by with a tray of treats, the fairy grabbed one with glee and gobbled it down, her enthusiasm making Isobelle purr with appreciation as she continued the casual interaction. A tiny drop of the dark caramel sauce from the tiny morsel fell at the corner of the girl's lips and without thinking, Isobelle leaned in and lightly kissed her directly over the sweet taste, her mouth lingering for a few seconds before leaning back and licking away any residue that might have been passed onto her. "Mmmmm," she said. "<em>Delicious</em>." A description that was not towards the taste of the caramelized sauce by any means.<br><br>And with that preliminary, she wove her arm within the other woman's, linking them together by their inner elbows and began to walk the perimeter of the dance floor as the first song continued and the Count and Countess whirled around the floor with the confident familiarity that only a married couple could achieve after many years. Isobelle giggled as she and the girl walked, smiling and gossiping behind their masks with their foreheads near each other after they came up with nicknames for each other, furthering the mystery and the entire reason behind the masks. "I think I shall call you, my little Angel." Isobelle commented. "Call me, Bella, if nothing else comes to your mind."<br><br>As they continued their rounds, Isobelle boldly pointed out the handsome attendees as she came upon him. "Angel," she jerked the other woman's arm as she pointed out a man dressed as a lord with a mask of a raven, beak and all. "How handsome is he? He has beautiful eyes and he stands so majestic! Oh! And look over there." She nodded towards an older gentleman who was adorned in all white. His eyes were eating Elia up and so as a tease Isobelle nuzzled Elia's shoulder with her own lips, kissing the pale skin there as her green eyes beheld the Professor-looking man as if to taunt him with a silent "<em>look what I've got that you want, buddy</em>. "God, he has been staring at you since the moment his eyes laid on you, would you be interested?" Then, immediately, like a child in a candy store, Isobelle's eyes were distracted by the African God who walked by with the mask of the Egyptian Jackal Deity. "Fuck, have you ever see a more tall, chocolate, and handsome man in your life?? Mmmmph," she moaned through her teeth pulling at her bottom lip. "I'd like to lick the dark color right off his skin..." <br><br>Just then as they passed a brightly colored man in a blue jacket with a mask that covered his face, Bella could have sworn she heard him mumble something. He was incredibly tall and dressed to clearly impress, his costume actually one of the most dynamic in the room, the white covering on his face exposing none of his features that she had a feeling were striking underneath. His eyes were captivating though, but in continuing their walk on the evening menu, all she did was blow a rubied kiss in his direction before moving on.<br><br>A man with the mask of a dragon then decided to walk in fashionably late and wearing a vest that was exquisite in its details. He looked harsh, cold, with just a pinch of danger, and jerking her chin in his direction, Bella whispered in Angel's ear: "The Dragon over there...doesn't <em>he</em> look like the type that would choke you, but only in the good way-"<br><strong><br>"I apologize for the intrusion ladies..."</strong><br><br>The unfamiliar voice broke through Bella's naughty reverie as they realized the Count himself was standing before them, bowing and offering Elia a dance. He asked if she minded taking her new friend away for a dance, and despite her heart filling with heated jealousy at the idea of being abandoned, Isobelle nodded and released Angel's arm. <br><br>"Of course," she said smoothly, being a political figure herself and knowing how to mask her own inner turmoil and irritation. It didn't last long, however, as she all but jumped at feeling a hand at the small of her own bare back, and spinning around she at first was face to face with a massive chest. <br><br>Mouth opened, lips parted, Isobelle's emerald eyes slowly...slowly ascended up across the Viking costume that was slightly opened to a bared chest with the peak of dusted chest hair, immensely broad shoulders, a beard under the Warrior's mask, and above intense eyes was a long formal braid. Bella stared dumbly for a few seconds at his question, almost mesmerized by him as it seemed he stepped out of a storybook before blinking and clearing her throat, his fingers stroking her back intimately and making her shudder as she inadvertently stepped closer to him. She detected a hint of whiskey on his breath along with a touch of gasoline on his skin, but it took nothing away from the overwhelming aura of masculinity that washed over her like a tidal wave. <br><br>"Um," her eyes dropped to his lips as she smiled slowly, dragging them back up to the eyeholes in his mask when he turned them to the dance floor. "Yes, please."<br><br>She did know how to waltz, it was an incredibly romantic dance and looking over to Angel she gave an excited smile at their already good fortune before turning towards her mysterious Viking chest to chest to place her left hand at his broad shoulder and her right hand into his, her much smaller one dwarfed by his as it was extended. When the music began, Isobelle had no trouble at all following his lead, his size not a handicap as expected as he moved the three steps of the waltz smoothly, hinting at an educated upbringing. His massive hand at her back was warm and it incited her to press closer to him as the orchestra increased in both volume and speed. Bella's long fingers on her left hand moved from his shoulder to come up to his face and caress the backs of her knuckles along his jawline before tracing the plumpness of his bottom lip with the pads of her fingers. Her sparkling eyes met his through their individual masks and she smiled mischievously. "So," she began in a volume for his ears alone. "What brought you here tonight?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MsMonster</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 07:32:42</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i65.tinypic.com/209kemw.jpg)<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i63.tinypic.com/qs4mrt.jpg)</div></div></div>Name:&nbsp; Marieme<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging:&nbsp; None<br><br><hr><br>Fashionably late…<br>&nbsp;<br>She just seemed to have a knack for it. Despite her best intentions, Marieme always found herself showing up after the party had already begun. She just knew that she had already missed the first dances and frowned slightly as her car slowly made its way up the long driveway to the castle. Though, she was glad that this proclivity toward tardiness of hers only seemed to affect social events. When it came to her research, she was of a very serious nature and always arrived well ahead of schedule. And why not? She had worked diligently to become one of the top minds in her field.<br>&nbsp;<br>She couldn’t help but chuckle to herself as she ran her tongue over the surprisingly sharp prosthetic fangs she wore. In a way, it was her specialisation in hematology that had inspired her costume this evening. She had thought it would be a terribly clever joke for her to show up dressed as a vampire. Of course, there was still the risk of the more humourless amongst them finding her choice of costume to be tasteless given the suspicion that had surrounded her in the aftermath of her late husband’s accidental death. The rumours still followed her nearly a year later, even though she had been officially cleared of any suspected involvement in the incident She sighed deeply. “<em>Let them disapprove…</em>” she whispered to herself, preparing to face the crowd.<br>&nbsp;<br>Marieme slipped on an intricate lace mask shaped like a bat and exited her car. She had been delighted when she found the mask as it complimented her gown perfectly.&nbsp; Which, of course, was entirely comprised of layers of delicate black lace over a tightly laced corset. It was hemmed high in the front and flowed into full length at the back, her long, shapely legs remained bare underneath. Her tiny feet were graced with simple, but elegant black pumps with spiked chrome heels. Perhaps not the most comfortable to wear for a night of dancing, but they did tend to leave quite an impression for those who noticed such things. She wasn’t really much for jewelry, opting only for a black velvet choker with a deep red stone glittering at her throat.<br>&nbsp;<br>She climbed the few stairs that led to the castle doors and presented her invitation to the gentlemen who waited to welcome the guests of the Count and his lady, Countess Mina. She followed closely behind the gentleman who was to escort her to the ballroom where she found herself greeted with the warm scent of candles and autumn roses. <br><br>Marieme helped herself to a flute of champagne as she took in the luxurious sights all around her. The floor was already alive with swirling and dancing party guests, each of them elegantly masked and costumed in the finest attire. She was content to allow herself a few moments to take it all in before setting her sights on finding a dancing partner of her own. Everywhere she looked, she was surrounded by glowing, bold fall colours accented with the dark décor of the holiday. She felt a sense of growing anticipation for the adventures that were sure to unfold through the coming hours. A wicked grin crossed her lips, painted deepest red to match the tone of the jewel she wore at her neck. After all, Halloween had always been her favourite and she planned on making this one to remember.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Esmeralgirl</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 08:33:45</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft"> (https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ40nzdTwRD_5SMMgeHzjusJCf6mshR6ITkJaD-3WAbQi1iE2Brpw) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Kore <br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dress</div><div class="spoiler_body"> <br>(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcStiMyqeF08Fiu_PFUxqYmTmQtr6Ws52eXfsaEGKEn7Xdn3LZou_A)</div></div><strong> Tagging: </strong> Stephen<br><strong> Mentioning: </strong> Elia, Isobella, Hudson<br><hr> <br><br><br>For a while, Kore kept roaming among the crowd, blending in without being barely noticed by anyone. Everyone in crowd was mostly enamored by someone, each one of them hiding behind the mask and keeping their identity intact. Many may have been sworn or blood enemies but here they were just anonymous identities who were here to enjoy the thing called life. She could see behind the mask of people, how many were here to forget about their duties and pain in the ass life which was forced upon them, some for their hidden agendas and some to get away from the life and to enjoy it as how it was supposed to be. Kore fit into the last category, to be here to enjoy the life without the fear of being identified. She continued sipping on her champagne and watching people. She could see Count dancing with a young petite woman and the look of jealousy upon the face of her former dance partner, an exotic beauty, until she was also taken up for a dance by a huge specimen of masculinity and they were lost in their own flirting. <br><br>Dropping the glass into a bin in a corner, she walked into the group of dancers, as they sway and danced to the tunes of the orchestra. Next dozen of minutes went in a flurry as she was dragged into the whirlwind dance as she danced with several partners but yet she couldn't feel any spark with anyone. They were good dancers and mostly gentlemen who didn't tried their luck much, a relief for her, by trying to grab her in unwanted place and they also could keep with the intensity she danced. Dancing was few of the hobbies she has picked along with fencing, horse riding, archery along with many others during her exile. <br><br>Bored as no one could bring the spark in her, she left the dance floor until she spotted a man standing in the dark corner and studying everyone with his intense eyes underneath the white mask he had. The moment she laid eyes upon him, she felt something in him, she could feel that he was here for the exact reasons she was and yet she could feel that their life are exact opposite of hers. There was no way she could resist as she was dragged by her feet to him, smiling at him as she neared, "Care to dance with ?I am thinking you've been not picked up yet?" she spoke, pushing her right hand towards him, fingers lowered, palm facing down, in a gesture of 'Take my hand if you can and dance'. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chou chou rheastar</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 08:57:11</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Name:&nbsp; Countess Mina<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Markus<br>Titus and Mina (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E_u21VRet_o/S-hMK0lYR3I/AAAAAAAAApU/iaWkszaUpds/s1600/JoanAllenPhoto_RedDress.jpg)<br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/e6/28/fc/e628fc54c2bd126af7edf8c4adac66c3.jpg)</div><hr><br>Mina was quite pleased as Markus moved them around the ballroom in the waltz, his steps sure and practiced he had obviously taken lessons and taken them to heart. She was always glad to have her hunches confirmed and she had known in her gut that he would be a good dancer. Allowing her body to sway closer than the true waltz form allowed the bodice of her red gown rubbing against his chest and then retreating with each step tantalizing his flesh with the soft feel of silk.<br><br>"I am honored you think so," Mina smiled at the compliment of the castle, she always tried to out do herself with each ball, never the same decor style twice she took it as a personal challenge to make each ball unique and breathtaking. Some people were never invited to another ball and she wished for the experience to be once in a lifetime and breathtaking. She laughed, a soft husky sound that still carried over the music and people talking with no effort of her own, "I decide on who is to be invited and send them all myself, dear one. So I shall be selfish and keep your accolades all to myself."<br><br>As they twirled around the dance floor Mina kept her eyes on the man she was dancing with, there would be times for her to scan the room after the dance was finished. When she was with a dancing partner she kept her whole interest focused on them to make them feel the center of her world for that moment in time. Mina stroked a finger tip over the back of his neck and down his shoulder to his bicep.<br><br>"I have them every major, and some not so major, holiday," Mina said, keeping up with the time of the music with no thought. She enjoyed the masculine strength in Markus' arms and chest as he lead her about the ballroom in their dance, Mina had always admired the male form when it was obviously physically fit. Though she enjoyed the male form in many other ways as well, she very much enjoyed the way his muscles bunched and flexed under her hand and against her thighs and stomach as she brushed against him again during one of their turns.<br><br>"Have you been to a ball before?"<br><br>Name:&nbsp; Hudson<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Isobelle<br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/42/a3/5a/42a35abe713de6973b48c08310d19270--bearded-men-dont-care.jpg)</div> <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">costume</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/2b/d0/d6/2bd0d682c42f9eab7a107e3e2f0cc518.jpg)</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/16/ac/e5/16ace5367f9e9629bae9f9fd0da47828--raven-mask-mask-ideas.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>Hudson would not be male if he did not appreciate the way the woman he had asked for a dance from spun and then gasped at him. Her beautiful wide eyes slowly sliding up to meet his own eyes she was even more lovely from the front as she was from the back. Hudson had kept his hand on her back as she spun and grinned as she stepped towards him and appeared to be in a slight daze for a moment. Standing a little straighter at her appraisal he nodded with a smile when she accepted his invitation.<br><br>Leading her out onto the dance floor he swept his eyes over her lovely form, the way her body moved under the clinging dress was seductive and caught his eyes more than once as she moved gracefully. She danced with the grace of someone who had done it before and he smiled as they moved about the floor with ease. His large hand slid low to her lower back, his hand spanning almost her entire back. She felt weightless in his arms and Hudson enjoyed moving her about the floor as the music played. Her skin was so soft and her delightful scent made his eye lids lower slightly in pleasure. He was glad he had snatched her up for a dance before someone else had, she was exquisite.<br><br>As she trailed the backs of her fingers over his bearded jaw and then played at his lower lip Hudson opened his mouth and licked her finger tip with a soft growl. He pulled her closer than was strictly necessary for their dance and bent a little so she did not have to strain to reach his face. "Apparently the Countess liked my beard," Hudson said his eyes laughing as he spun her out and then back in to hold her close against his chest while they moved about the dance floor. "And your lovely self?" <br><br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eikichi</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 09:15:17</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/ac/Eikichi_Characters_44.png)</div>Name: Stephen<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Kore, Open<br>Mentioning: Chester<br><hr><span style="font-family: times;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size">Before retreating himself away to the far corner of the room, purposefully trying to avoid anyone that might single him out as a potential dance partner. Stephen did cast a side-long glance at the man in the dragon mask as he passed him. That glance was followed by another as he noticed the cocked nature of his expression. If the man did recognize him, it seemed he wasn’t making anything of it. Then again, with a black mask and golden attire, the man might simply be perplexed at his appearance. He couldn’t blame him for that, Stephen really should have arranged for a change of clothes as well, oh well. What’s done could hardly be remoursed. Stephen found his position amongst a crowd at the back of the room, watching as the various figures made their way over to the dance floor.<br><br>Lord Becket cast a light glance toward the young woman that approached him. His eyes appraising her as she inched closer. His eyes lingered a bit longer along the fine red edge of her dress and the various matching apparel and her mask. It seemed the young woman had come in with a theme in mind, not that he minded. It certainly did her justice. So, when she approached him with a smile on her lips the male returned it with a coy curve of his lips as he cast a light glance toward her outstretched hand. She’d made clear her intentions, but as much as the Lord might be tempted to give her what she wanted there was no fun in that game. Instead he reached forward. The fluffed silk ends of his coat brushing against the top of her hand as his fingertips curled around her outstretched hand. He took her hand, but before she might pull him along to the dance floor he leaned down and placed a light kiss on the back of her hand. His head tilted slightly off to the right so that beak of his mask did not scratch against her skin.<br><br>His lips lingered against the back of her hand but for only a few brief moments before he drew back, keeping her hand interlocked with his but also giving the young a rather ungentlemanly-like tug towards him indicating he had no interest in escorting her to the dance floor, before verbalizing the same disinterest. <strong> "As flattered as I am that you’d ask. I’m afraid I simply can’t dance with you. "</strong> The male continued to smile as he pulled her in closer toward him, easing her into a comfortable position in front of him so that he could lean down. He brought his face, his lips in particular, before hers before slowly moving to her left cheek. His lips only grazing the uncovered skin before he reached his destination, her ear. With his lips just inches away from her ear he’d lightly mumble out the words that only she’d be able to hear. <strong> "I have two left feet. So, I’m afraid I just don’t have the stomach for dancing. But I’m sure I can still provide at least some moderation of sufficient company. Unless you’d prefer a more coordinated suitor? "</strong> While he let her linger over the question the male would begin to pull back from her, creating a more appropriate space between them given the rather sensible nature of the crowd around them.<br><br>While the offer to dance was of course rejected, the hands hand remained placed on the hand she’d extended to him. Those callused fingers, so unsuitable for a Lord of his standing, was brushing against her own soft digits. All while his earlier actions of drawing her closer, if she hadn’t already taken the steps back, would at least give her a more examined look at the strange character. One whose mask was painted as black as his animosity, but whose attire otherwise reeked of regal elegance. He’d extended the offer for her to remain in his company, but of course he hadn’t made any statements about what that company would entail. Especially since he himself didn’t really know. His thoughts were already lingering towards exploring other parts of the castle and seeing what it might hold. As for the ballroom before him, the various dancing figures had already started to wane at his attention and had become rather troublesome eyesores.</span></span>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Szandor</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 11:22:55</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> Chester William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom (sidelines)<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Marieme, Open<br><strong>Mentioning:</strong> Stephen<br><hr><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/c6/e4/17/c6e417f57bbfbad77352d6b90dfe3484--mads-mikkelsen-beautiful-men.jpg)</div><br>Chester let his eyes linger on the man with the crow mask as he passed, and just as their gaze had ended he allowed his eyes to to drop down. Chester didn't like to obviously rake his eyes over someone when they noticed, it only served to make the other uncomfortable. He smirked, then averted his gaze as the man started to converse with other participants of the party. He looked around the room at the smiling faces and glittering champagne flute sea that covered the ballroom.<br><br>With a sigh, Chester took another, albeit longer, sip of his champagne and searched in that sea of people for someone. Someone who caught his eye; someone who was preferably alone; someone who perhaps wanted to dance to the music overhead.<br><br>He heard the doors to the ballroom open once more. Chester turned only his head, and took in a slow breath as a woman dressed entirely in black strode into the room. She was exquisite. She had an air of not caring what others think surrounding her, and her mask fashioned to the likeness of a bat was as intricate as her dress. Chester took it upon himself to approach her, but not before he observed her taking in her surroundings first.<br><br>Chester watched the woman take a champagne flute, and look eagerly at the people milling around the ballroom. He let a slightly larger smile tug at his lips for a moment before he quelled it. It wouldn't do to seem over-eager for company. No, he had to be better than that; he was to act as if it were mere coincidence - perhaps destiny - that brought them together. Chester took in a breath, then started on his journey across the ballroom floor.<br><br>When he was close enough to her, Chester lowered his head, put his left foot behind him, and bowed ever-so-politely to her. When he rose again, he held up his champagne glass and spoke with a warm smirk. "It's delicious, no?" His accent came out stronger at parties like this. Chester didn't mind. It made him stand out more, to be the only guest of Finnish origin in the room.<br><br>Chester held out his hand to her, and if she put hers into his he would slowly kiss the back of her hand. If not, he would put it behind his back. "I must say, your mask is beautiful. It matches your dress perfectly; both so delicate and appropriate to the theme."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 12:04:08</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h164/ybfchic/August%202015%20Part%20V/xe7.png)</div>Name: Markus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Countess Mina<br><hr><br>Cade twirled the Countess again, this time keeping his arm extended as they complete another full turn; then the Boxer reversed the gesture bringing the elegant Lady back into him, her red dress a swirl of movement about her. It seemed to Markus no matter what he might come up with, Countess Mina would expertly follow thru with impossible grace and precision. As if this Woman was born to dance, so skilled was she, that it seemed merely child's play for her to match him step by step. She was a joy to move with, and against. The fact that her body had, in numerous but skillfully secluded moments, brush against his in ways that suggest a growing intimacy was not lost on the jackal masked Fighter. More than once M.J.C. had to stop himself when his hand, dutifully place behind Mina, would drift either up or down, tracing the spine of her exposed back in ways that one might consider inappropriate. Her skin was soft and warm, a pale shade of olive dusted to glimmer in the candlelight. The very presence of the Woman quickened one's heart rate and Cade found himself enjoying her way too much then he should.<br><br>"That's not all you can keep..." Markus heard himself saying before common sense violently gunned down his more primal urges. Forever was the little head, trying to speak for the big one and Cade was determined to remember where he was and who he was with. For God sakes the Woman's husband was dancing less than ten feet away and had what, an army of highly trained and well-paid security guards at his disposal. Not a fight you can win! "... My... Gratitude at being chosen first among your guest to dance with. If the night was to end right now, it would still be magical...simply for this moment."<br><br>And the moment was a fading one. The song that the orchestra was playing; the singer, a beauty herself with a honey flavored voice, wouldn't last forever. The Countess would be off to dance with another and Markus had to admit, she would leave a momentary void in His evening. Yet as Mina's finger traced over his bicep he wonders if his Hostess might too feel the absence. Hopeful... but doubtful. The Countess Mina was probably way out of the Lightweight Champion's League, not to mention married... then again, this wasn't his first dalliance with Nobility. Tabloids and High Society Magazines were still offering Markus huge sums to name his Royal indiscretion. <br><br>"This is my first Ball, I didn't think it was something I would be into but my taste for such things are improving dramatically." Images of the Countess's midnight colored hair cascading about as she looked down upon him from a mounted position, flickered thru Cade's thoughts. M.J.C. gave his Hostess another twirl simply to break contact with her long enough to get control of his hormones; he was only twenty-five after all and bred in many different ways than the high society around him. As she returned to his waltzing embraced Cade realized, after gazing into that masked covered face, that the Countess probably knew exactly what effect she was having on him.<br><br>Markus Cade decided that as the Song, the waltz itself, was winding down he would forgo the small talk and ask a real question. Chances are the Boxer might never have an opportunity to talk to this Woman, in such privacy, again so what did he have to lose. "Is this your everyday? I mean it has to be amazing. All these people, these servants at your beckon call, the prestige, the fame... the lifestyle. But, do you ever get tired of it? Do you ever want to just slip away?" The Question might have been one Cade was asking himself, as he was starting to feel the overwhelming pressure of his own notoriety as it weighed heavily on his young shoulders. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 21:07:48</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Isobelle, Count Titus, William<br><br><hr><br>Elia’s tongue slid over the corner of her own mouth, in an echo of where the other woman’s had been a moment before. Not so much to double check every last bit of confection had been made use of - that Elia was already sure of, so thorough in its heart-fluttering sensuality had the moment been - but a chance for a tasting of her own, to savor the echo of the other woman’s lips and saliva. Elia thought she saw just a hint of sparkle on the other woman’s lips now, where her own lipstick had left tis Tinkerbell fairy-dusting. She giggled under her breath, reminded me of the <em>I can fly, I can fly!</em> song from Peter Pan. For that was about how she felt. <br><br>She felt just that light as she glided up Isobelle’s arm about the room, noting and giggling with the people-watching. “My god - gods? - if I remember my senior mythology class last year, it looks like both Thor and Anubis walk among mortals this eve? And that other fellow, mmm, a jawline like Superman’s. I wonder what sort of lady would be his Lois Lane, what sort his Wonder Woman, and what sort his kryptonite…and that other young man, doesn’t he look like like sort sort of dashing art thief or stock market criminal, the sort to seduce the ladies right out of their jewelry and clothes, steal away virtue and jewelry alike, maybe let one lucky lady finding herself waking up in some sort of red and black silk opulent sex dungeon of his...” <br><br>For all that, Elia’s eyes lingered overlong on a gentleman with white suit and beard, “Bella, he looks so silky and smooth...like you could curl up in front of a fire on a rug and be practically hypnotized by stories and yarns and teachings of such a worldly fellow, seduced by stories of swinging decades past, or romantic medieval poetry…”<br>When Bella pointed out the man in the dragon mask, Elia nodded and giggled, “I bet he has appetites to match, do you suppose the dragon’s looking for a village maiden sacrifice to devour...my goodness, what if he’s knight and beast all rolled into one....”<br><br>Elia bit her lip just as often looking over the ladies, though, one who seemed like she might have been a smoky Mediterranean beauty in red had Elia briefly affect a purring faux-Spanish accent under her breath to Isobelle, “Looks like she could pour red wine all over you and still blind-taste the correct vintage when she licks it off you…perhaps with the right fellow to strum guitar to set the scene,” Elia admired some of the orchestra members as well as she said this. Then Elia cast a long look at a fellow blonde who wore a mask which was like a dark counterpart to her own: black, but also wire style, airy and wide and high on the face, “She looks haughty in the right sort of way, like I always imagined Marie Antoinette…or like she could be my wicked stepmother….my <em>very, very</em> wicked stepmother who keeps this princess in a tower for god-knows what blood magic….” <br><br>When the Count approached, Elia recognized him, his mask anyway, from when he had the Countess had announced the welcome at the clock-struck hour. Elia gasped under her breath, feeling rather honored to be so asked by the host of such an extravagant gathering. She curtsied low. “Why yes...sir...my lord….host...sir...yes I waltz” she realized she was completely unsure about titles. Her father had raised her respectfully, and with a joking habit of referring to him and his old military buddies by the ranks they’d held before profitably pivoting from patriotic duty to private sector profiteering. But she much less sure about aristocratic titles and the like. Then she realized, silly girl, this was a masquerade anyway, she wouldn’t be expected to know anyone’s title, at least not yet. <br><br>Then all that was forgotten - the way this man swept her into his arms was, like, well, like she was Tinkerbell or Wendy again, flying effortlessly on a pixie dust trail. As she spun out of sight of Bella, she mouthed, “Find me again…” with a wink of one eye, and a lick of her lip. She glanced to the Norse god who seemed about to embark on the most civilized sort of pillaging across the dance floor with Isobelle, and Elia found herself licking her lips again. <br><br>Then she turned her full attention to her own leader in this dance, and told him, “My father saw fit have my tutored in ballroom dancing, for just such….well I never imagined anything on this scale, but whatever debutante balls or collegiate dances might’e been in mind for my near future. I did years of ballet, but, of course that is quite different….”<br><br>Then she realized she was going on like some overexcited, tipsy, gossipy girl - which was precisely what she was. Between her dance partner’s practiced grace, and her own year of tutelage, the dance seemed like floating, marvelously effortless. She tried to keep her voice slower and measured - and was only half successful - as she went on, “Why do I feel like Christine, just swept up by the Phantom…or like a Victorian maiden about to be made a vampire...” She looked deep into the Count’s mask, into his eyes. God, they were hypnotic, like he were a gothic fairy tale sorcerer dragging her gaze about with some crystal ball he held. Elia was very glad suddenly, that the waltz was so effortless with such a partner, it was like she was simply a stone spinning and skipping over a flat lake cast over in fog. “I don’t care if I’m dreaming,” she vocalized, but now it was as much to herself as deliberately spoken to the Count, “as long as it’s not too soon I must wake.”<br><br>Elia had danced with grace so far, an easy thing between her training and he Count's impeccable lead, but as the next song ended she went for an extravagant ballet flourish. She spun about, under the Count's arm, then practically around him, ending with a jump and pirouette and another low curtesy with arts outstretched. <br><br>Perhaps it was the champagne, or the high heels instead of ballet slippers, but for all her toe-crunching years of ballet she made one little misstep now. She stumbled over a bit in the transition from jump to curtsey. She found the fingers of one outstretched hand brush through a silky beard, and then a split second after, her rump nudged right up against the front of a man - yes, she could suddenly feel, <em>definitely</em> the front, and <em>definitely</em> a man - in a white suit. She looked up behind her own shoulder, to see a wolf mask. "Oh my, sorry my lord!" she giggled.&nbsp; "Eep! Little Red Riding Hood just found the big bad wolf!"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ArtemisHighmore</strong> on <strong>12-10-2017, 21:45:56</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://www.duchamplondon.com/duchamp_blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/aiden-shaw-6.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Open, Elia, Mentioning Isobelle<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Outfit</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b7/26/e5/b726e50a805a2b3dc61a60b5b5d5ff2e--aiden-shaw-summer-campaign.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>William had nearly smirked when he noticed that the ‘pixie’ he thought he had seen was being escorted by an equally alluring and intriguing woman. Even across the room he felt a curious familiarity in her features though he wasn’t immediately sure why that would be. He brushed it off, at least for the moment, as the possibility that they might have crossed paths on a book tour lately. Those things tended to be such a whirlwind anyways that he rarely recalled much of them other than they wore him out. Still it wasn’t like he was going to distain something that was promoting what had effectively become his child. <br><br>Having held the gaze of the pair of intriguing women, their contrast only adding to their allure, he turned his attention elsewhere when they were fetched by the Count and what he expected might be a close friend. The night was young and he suspected that eventually he would cross paths with one, if not both of them before all was said and done. At least that was his suspicion given the way the he had been studied in turn. <br>Turning his attention to the décor once more, he made a note that he should really corner the Countess as one point and compliment her on her choices. At least he suspected that they had been hers though it was hard to say. He had only met the Count himself in passing and there was no way of knowing if perhaps he was the decorator of the fair. The thought actually had him quite amused as he moved along, absently listening to the rise and fall of the dance, suspecting that the end was approaching. Best to try and find himself a potential dance partner, so that he did not appear as so aged fuddy-dud on the outskirts of the room.<br><br>Stepping to the edge of the dance floor, his eyes scanned the various pairs that moved about, trying to decide how best he was going to venture into this. This early on he figured it was more than expected for the guests to mingle at random but there was always the possibility that he would select wrong, to make a poor move and step between a couple that only had eyes for each other. As luck would have it, his decision was made for him.<br><br>Having been looking in the other direction, William’s only warning was a flicker of white before a small form backed into him. Arching a brow, he turned his gaze down to find the pixie that he had been studying across the hall earlier was now pressed against his front. Offering a smile, his voice was a steady timbre that suggested years of public speaking and reading aloud.“Well hello there. I daresay I am not the big bad wolf, but I appreciate the compliment.”<br><br>Not wanting to embarrass the young lady by being in such a compromising position in such a public setting, he shifted one hand to her hip, turning her gracefully so that were facing properly. Setting his glass down on the nearby table, he collected her right hand, holding it level with her shoulder just as the orchestra slipped into the next song. Though he wasn’t a regular dancer, he knew the steps well enough to be a confident lead, drawing her out into the crowd. Once they were settled into the proper movements, he studied her carefully. “Forgive me for being perhaps a bit intrusive but you strike me with a curious familiarity. Could it be possible that we have crossed paths in the not so distant past? I don’t recall encountering any pixies in my travels but your hair…”<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MsMonster</strong> on <strong>13-10-2017, 12:02:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i65.tinypic.com/209kemw.jpg)<br></div>Name:&nbsp; Marieme<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging:&nbsp; Chester<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i63.tinypic.com/qs4mrt.jpg)</div></div><br><hr><br>Marieme indulged in a long sip of her champagne as she watched the dancers glide across the floor in time with the music. Before she had realised it, she had drained half her glass. The atmosphere in this place alone was intoxicating. It would be far to easy for her to get swept away in the decadence and romance of the evening with so many beautiful creatures lurking about. It wasn't that often one found themselves the opportunity to dance to a live orchestra and her thoughts turned to, perhaps, finding a partner of her own to glide with.<br><br>Her eyes scanned the candlelit room, eyeing many of the other guests closely. So many prospective partners and, regrettably, so few dances to share. How would she be able to choose? <br><br>It made things easier when a gentleman, disguised behind an ornate dragon mask that shimmered in hues of blue and aquamarine in the candlelight, bowed before her. Marieme smiled brightly at the gesture and returned it with a graceful curtsey of her own. <em>“Far too good.”</em> she said in agreement over the question of the champagne, her own Québecois accent quite apparent as she spoke. She took another sip before continuing. <em>“It certainly tastes like I will have a few more before the night is through. Though, I imagine tonight is a night for all manner of indulgence."</em> Her wink could be seen behind the delicate lace of her mask, her pale eyes painted smokey and dark as night beneath.<br><br>The mysterious blue dragon with his twisting black horns and dressed in his intricate blue and silver brocade vest then held out his hand to her. Marieme happily accepted, slipping her own fingers into his waiting palm. Charmed by the soft kiss and the compliment that followed, she couldn't help but let out the softest of giggles, barely noticeable if not for the smile that pulled at the corner of her mouth. The fangs she wore pressed into the deep red of her lower lip as she grinned, giving her warm expression a far more sinister appearance.<em> “My, my, sir. We do seem have quite the flair for drama don't we? I am most flattered, kind sir. You cut quite the attractive figure yourself, I must say.”</em><br><br>She stepped closer to the fine gentleman in her company as the music swelled and filled the room. Marieme felt the calling to join the swirl of masks and colours moving through the room growing stronger. She finished her drink and placed the empty flute on a passing tray. <br><br><em>“Care to dance?” </em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Szandor</strong> on <strong>13-10-2017, 23:03:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> Chester William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Marieme<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/45/3a/96/453a96300491beb4376bca4391987646.jpg)</div></div><hr><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/c6/e4/17/c6e417f57bbfbad77352d6b90dfe3484--mads-mikkelsen-beautiful-men.jpg)</div>Chester smirked from behind his mask. The way the thing hung meant he could quite comfortably eat with it attached, but if his head were tilted just so, almost all of his mouth would be covered. The man remembered to not look down too often, to stand straight with his head held high, but not rigid like a statue. The smirk pulling at his lips tugged even more when the woman he had approached had mentioned the indulgences of the party. He very much agreed, the party did not seem the sort to condemn those that chose to <em>slip away</em> for other deeds besides dancing privately. Chester caught the wink, and as he kissed her hand he replied to her with a sly flair to his tone. He knew what he was doing, and he was going to do it well or not at all.<br><br>"The better it tastes, the more the patrons have," He mused, then placed the kiss on her hand and looked up, lips still hovering above her skin for a millisecond before he straightened and continued, "Therefore the more likely it is they will scurry off to have their own fun. Yes, I think this night is a night not just for dancing, but for all of the carnal desires."<br><br>At the mention of his dramatic flair the man behind the dragon mask bowed his head. Adding a touch of drama was his specialty. It had to be, considering his line of work. Running places far more carnal in nature than this place had to be done not with business know-how, but with a touch of flair and personality. Big lights, pretty colors, sweet women dancing; all those distracted his customers from the outside world... and from the price they paid to get in. Chester wondered for a second if that was what the host had done, in so many words, in preparation for this night.<br><br>Chester chuckled, albeit for a very short time, when Marieme called him handsome. He was about to wave a hand at the notion, but thought against it. Why not let compliments soak in this evening? She stepped closer to him, and as she made this small move both the music and Chester's chest rose to meet her. The man smirked once again, then cast a glance to the patrons dancing. Marieme - though Chester did not know this as her name - would finish her drink with haste, then put it on a tray passing by. Chester's eyes widened a little at that, then he did the same, and put the champagne flute on the nearest flat surface.<br><br>The man held out his hand for her, and gestured with the other to the dance floor. "Let's." He said. If she was so inclined to put their hands together once more, he would lead her to the dance floor.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Esmeralgirl</strong> on <strong>14-10-2017, 06:39:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft"> (https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ40nzdTwRD_5SMMgeHzjusJCf6mshR6ITkJaD-3WAbQi1iE2Brpw) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Kore <br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dress</div><div class="spoiler_body"> <br>(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcStiMyqeF08Fiu_PFUxqYmTmQtr6Ws52eXfsaEGKEn7Xdn3LZou_A) </div></div> <br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Stephen <br><hr> <br><br>Kore bit on her lower lip when instead of taking her hand and coming to the floor for a dance, he instead kissed the back of her hand. His lips lingered on her skin for a while and that made her a fidget, not because she was uncomfortable under his touch but rather that she was not used to company up this close. How many people she had physically touched besides the circle of her friends? That will be null and now she was up this close. Though this night was to get over every doubt she has and be free, she didn't pulled back or tried to make a little space. She was heiress to one of the world's most famous Hotel business and she should act like one. Before she could act confident, his body was almost pressed against hers and lips gazed her soft skin on the cheek. This brought a new wave of flustered redness on her skin and she let out a small unwanted sigh of pleasure. This gesture felt intimate and she hasn't been intimate with anyone, either a male or female from a long time. <br><br>When he pulled slightly away, she put a confident smirk on her face as she run a finger on his suit, up until his neck and then pressed freshly manicured nail on the bottom of his chin, "Afraid of dancing with me or others /? I would assume that I am going to be much of a distraction up this close with my hands on you and your around mine that you'll not be able to follow through?" Ruby lips parted into a wide grin, eyes which were hidden behind glinting with a challenge, whether he will accept or not that depends on him. Though for herself, she neither moved closer nor she backed down. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eikichi</strong> on <strong>14-10-2017, 09:37:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/ac/Eikichi_Characters_44.png)</div>Name: Stephen<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Kore, Open<br><hr><span style="font-family: times;" class="bbc_font"><span style="font-size: 12pt;" class="bbc_size"> Stephen couldn’t help but smile at the young woman’s attempt to challenge him, dismissing he challenge that he’d left for her . That open proposition gone the male instead reached forward and placed his hands on either side of her. Since she’d spoken so confidently about having her arms around him, he wondered if she’d still be so confident if it was his hands pressing upon her precious space. The male’s hands gripped firmly against the woman’s waistline, touching that red silk and practically gripping it as he began to turn her. Whether or not she resisted the turn, the male’s hands moved with purpose to ensued that she was no longer facing him but rather that she was now facing that dance floor which she continued to taunt him with.<br><br>With her body now positioned toward the dancefloor the males position only eased himself closer to the young woman, closing what little distance was between them. His hands shifted from her waist, and instead moved to cross over her lower abdomen and draw her in towards him. So that her back would press to his torso while her head would press just lightly against his shoulder as he lowered his lips to her ear once more. Only this time there was no challenge lingering in his words, but rather a hint of amusement. <strong> "If I were to have such an elegant woman’s hands around me, pressed so close. I would have to say that it would be difficult to dance. Even if I could. "</strong> He smiled before lowering his lips further to press to her ear bud, as he whispered the final words softly against her skin. <strong> "So perhaps the reason I won’t dance. Is simply the fact I’m too wild to control myself from holding back, especially if something so delicate where to be within arms reach."</strong><br><br>His lips would linger, only momentarily, on her ear before that light grasp he had over her body was also released. The only thing keeping her pressed to him being that he hadn’t pulled away. So, when the male did draw back he mumbled under his breath. <strong> "You should find a dance partner, darlin."</strong> The male then drew away from the woman, stepping back into the crowd to find a new place to <em>perch</em> himself and observe the rest of the guests. He’d see several guards loitering about at the exits to the ball room, so it seemed their hosts was determined to keep them from wandering. That didn’t sit well with Stephen, but that did mean he needed to distract himself before they were freed from this part of the evening.</span></span>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vlexia</strong> on <strong>14-10-2017, 16:03:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a9/e0/ca/a9e0cad0f1fe82aadad6f95ed69dc14d.jpg)</div> <strong>Name:</strong> Isobelle<br><strong>Location: </strong>Ballroom<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Gown</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/UT8dpECXPdaXXagOFbXx.jpg_640x10000.jpg)<br></div></div><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Hudson---&gt; Sebastian <br><div class="floatright">(https://sites.create-cdn.net/siteimages/5/0/3/50308/93/2/8/9328459/747x1000.jpg?1416057531)</div><hr><br>Every spare gap between them was immediately dissolved when her imposing dance partner pulled her closer and curved his head down to meet her. The scruff of his beard was against her warm cheek, lips near her ear, and connected to him from breasts to knees it was a wonder they did not trip each other up during the waltz. Their musical compatibility was superior when he spun her around before yanking her back, Isobelle's breath coming out in a soft erotic huff when they collided together. She loved the feel of him; the size of his body and the strength of his muscles under his costume was historical, as if he were some Renaissance man lost in the flow of time.<br><br>His question was tricky because it could expose who she was, especially if he was familiar with the area. Doubtful, but she still didn't want to take the risk, it was too much fun pretending to be someone else.<br><br>"I'm a bit of a fashion icon, but my father is well known in the political world and so I am often invited to exotic social events." <br><br>The music was beginning to wane as the song was coming to its end, a sad subject as Isobelle greedily clutched the man to her, her left arm banded around the back of his neck while her right palm cupped his cheek, thumbpad stroking his sharp cheekbone gently as she brought her face forward to his and boldly tilted her head back to press her mouth to his quickly and suddenly. It was a statement and she couldn't hold back the soft groan at the feel of his beard against her own chin and lips as she definitely tasted the whiskey then, but it ended just as quickly as it had begun before her golden eyes flecked up to his through the eyeholes of her mask. <br><br>"Thank you for the dance," she started, her nose brushing his as she then came around to his ear and whispered smoothly: "Find me again later tonight if you want to see how your favorite drink tastes when it's dripping down my body..." and then with that remark and a wicked wink, she retreated slowly from him, her hands trailing down his biceps and forearms to grab his hands softly and then dropping them to turn away and continue her walk. She scanned briefly for Angel, but seeing her still occupied with the Count she browsed the outskirts of the room seeking out someone who would her next target, her confidence having skyrocketed since being picked by the Viking King she had just concluded a dance with. <br><br>Just then her hungry eyes landed on the mysterious man in blue from before as he was still standing off against the wall. Picking a second glass up from a passing tray, Isobelle walked towards him, her eyes capturing his between the sea of costumes and masks as they seemed to part for her like the Red Sea. Within seconds she was standing before him, the glass tipped lightly against her lips before slowly swiping her long tongue across the upper one as she appraised him and his clothing. Just as speculated before his eyes were intensely blue through the mask and it made Isobelle smile.<br><br>"'Say, what abridgment have you for this evening?'" She began the famous Shakespearean quote in her husky and softly accented voice, her body stepping closer to his but not touching, almost cornering him against the wall with the closed space between them. "'What masque, what music? How shall we bequille the lazy time if not with some delight?'" Her left hand reached forward to graze his arm, and if allowed it would run down to his gloved hand and thread its bare fingers between his sweetly. "Are you always a wall statue at events such as this? Or do you wish to seek delight in these lazy times?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mimetisme</strong> on <strong>14-10-2017, 21:32:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft"> (https://78.media.tumblr.com/7b858c237a1fab0cf07878ad89f21088/tumblr_oxtt8afFCO1vxwaceo1_250.gif) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Claudine a.k.a. Spade<br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom (sidelines)&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Attire</div><div class="spoiler_body"> (https://78.media.tumblr.com/3878bda0143cedb7662109ca4f9ef34a/tumblr_oxtstwsgJu1vxwaceo1_400.gif)</div></div><br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Mental Commentary, Open<br><hr> <br><em>Money. Power. Fame. Prestige. This was their world, behind their masks. However, if any knew who she was if they recalled her from a few years ago and who she was today, they would think her a wolf dressed in sheep's clothing, not the other way around. For but a night, she didn't have to be the wolf, or did she?</em><br><br>Not a one has paid Claudine mind as she idly circled the room in a slow stalking pace without gaze set on potential prey. Well, none with a pulse worthy enough to hold her attraction beyond a faint nod and weak smile before the soft moss green with dim flecks of gold eyes drifted in looking elsewhere as a silent statement of she wished not to be detained. The dark blush of her gown's crimson wine of burgundy color seemingly made her blend with the elaborate backdrop and lighting instead of standing out. Strapless, the smooth plane of her sun-kissed shoulders were bare since she had discarded the matching hooded cloak to the coats man. Under the cascade of tulle that spilled down her gown, the most any would see would be just a hint of the tips that peaked from under the intricate pattern of leather foliage that was her heeled shoes. As couture and vintage even as her gown was, it also held her secrets of how firmer her muscle had become since she had faded from social circles. Even with the plush velvet that hugged to arms from the tops of hands and flowed up to her biceps, more than the mask she wore further her concealment. In terms of jewelry, not that any would know, to each ring finger a piece of antique fitted her, the same in what dangled from her ears. The stream of crimson about her throat, new as it was old, the choker with the precious gem carved into the shape of a heart. The inscription behind it unseen.<br><br>The simple fact Claudine had maintained lingering just out of the peripheral range for those gathered was a touch sad as it was odd. The sorrowful note was because of how detached she was from the sea of the fellow entourage who no doubt was raised in the same privileged lifestyle and society as she. Such exquisite and fragile lives they no doubt lived. Though witnessing those merry bodies as they swirled and swayed, Claudine found herself reminiscent of her own past that but a few years ago that had come to a halting end when she was officially pronounced the sole survivor and heiress of all the Essex coat of arms stood for beyond the fortune and priceless antiques. To imagine, there was a time when she so easily could float about haplessly. Smiling. Laughing. Flirting. Entertaining promiscuous behavior. All of it. Was it she missed being so snuggly wrapped in the beautiful deception of happiness that she formerly devoured copious amounts of? Or, was it something deeper running down into a fiery vein of hellfire that was her own true guilt and greeds untold? Neither question did she dare ask of herself for fear of the repercussions of such knowledge when answers were exposed even privately too herself. <br><br>Then there was the other side of that gilded antique coin that represented the Essex bloodline which was best known as the woman Spade. The sheer fact Claudine made herself most comfortable on all which glittered, shined, and sparkled. Found on man and woman. Both captivated, and hungry. Oh so hungry, as always. All she could seem to fit her mind around was how eager she was to be let off her leash when the castle opened all its doors. There were potential business and profit to be gained and seized, one way or another. After all, despite her best arguments against partaking in this annual feast, this was why she surrendered to the notion born from her advisors, was it not? To bow, lost gaze to the floor in extending her own respects and even unspoken allegiance in loyalty. Though what that loyalty was still had yet to be known. A truth while an excuse to monopolize on potential future investments. That almighty 'what if' could once more rejuvenate the name Essex greater than it was now. So why not treat this costumed affair as a disguised business meeting? It's not like there was any chance this would be the night where something more alluring and precious had a hope of being found behind a mask. The road she was pioneering alone didn't allow room for a ring to be slipped on her finger and an anchor in her heart. <br><br>No, and no again. Even as her gaze feasted on the gleam of accessories worn this night, she needed to discipline herself. Here, she was neither Essex nor Spade. Simply, she was masked woman, nothing more and nothing less. Now if only her own gaze could fixate on a someone instead of a something. What a feat that would be indeed for her. As fingers pinched and plucked to collect a drink from a passing servant, forcibly she commanded her mind to drink the visages of others and not the gleam of stones they had decorated themselves in. Drawing the liquid filled vessel to her lips, she awoke and embraced memories from when she once had thrived under such gatherings as this. The pangs of hunger and the greed that possessed the body while also setting it free. Dragon. Wolf. Skeleton. And more. Now the question that needed be all that mattered now was but one. Which to not devour but, to <em>sample</em> first.<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Yarnover</strong> on <strong>15-10-2017, 08:16:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.dhresource.com/260x260s/f2-albu-g4-M00-CF-D7-rBVaEVm2dACAFqNkAAEahK7FXcs926.jpg/luxury-detail-gold-embroidery-quinceanera.jpg)</div><strong>Name</strong>&nbsp; Auden (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=276238.msg13580676#msg13580676)<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> open<br><br><hr><br>Auden had kept to the back of the room throughout the opening ceremonies. He was a complete stranger in the house and was not at all sure what to expect. Lucky for him, he cut a mighty fine female frame and so his costume seemingly gave him enough to hide behind while he felt around and gathered information. Mr. Burleson collected a wide assortment of looks along the way, some flirtatious, a few suspicious and almost all curious in some way. He remained silent through it all, returning the attention with a nod, a curtsy or a smile. He avoided the first few songs by keeping outside the ballroom so as not to be asked to dance but eventually his quest for knowledge brought him back into the grand hall. <br><br>At first, the fairy-costumed boy kept to the edges of the ballroom and slowly walked from small crowd to crowd as he listened to what gossip there was. Then he began to make a slow spiral inward, all the while keeping a mental key of each face and name he came across along the way. Only then, when he felt confident in his knowledge of the crowd gathered as well as the layout of the mansion, did he actually enter into the social picture. He made an amusing comment at one loose gathering and then stepped to the outskirts of the dance floor, eager to to get an idea of everyones' talents. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>15-10-2017, 10:25:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: William<br><br><hr><br>Elia let out a sigh of relief and contentment. Her momentary embarrassment over her misstep to fade right away, thanks to the way the white-suited and white-whiskered wolf casually swept her up into the arm frame for the walt. She became aware, then, that while to her this event was far and away the most surreally extravagant thing she’d ever seen, this man seemed to take it all in stride, literal waltz stride, as if he had seen and experienced much in his years. She had a sudden desire to be told long stories of live well lived or of bouts of danger and regrets. And that thought in turn made his voice seem somehow so familiar, as if she had in fact heard an appetite-whetting sample of worldly stories or philosophies from it. <br><br>She tried to think back...classes lectures, summer programs, commencement addresses, book tours, and the like...but the champagne and general giddiness of the magical event made her head swim for specifics. There was a certain familiar comfort to his beard, too, but she could not be sure if that was in specific relation to her aural deja vu, or perhaps some regressive memory like sitting on a department store santa’s lap (something she would reluctantly admit to having done up through high school).<br><br>Her thoughts were guided by the fact that that voice of his was musing on such things. “Oh, that would be...that would be a most storybook twist indeed, sir White Wolf. Hmm...if it’s not a faux pax for me to admit details of myself at a masquerade, I have done a bit of modeling - mostly not yet as mainstream as I’d like, still working on that -” she’d done more than a bit, but she was trying to be modest and mysterious, and it was true she was hoping to do much more - “So if you’ve been to certain photographers’ gallery exhibitions of late, you might have seen me up on the walls, and in the crowd, chaperoned by my father. And I have gotten in fashion magazines, but...well not <em>nearly</em> enough yet to make a career of it or call myself a professional model in any sense above the most literal. A cutthroat world, that, especially with the internet taking over, still looking for the big break.”<br><br>She realized she wasn’t sounding very mysterious anymore, and feared she sounded like a schoolgirl babbling to her guidance counselor or professor about her career goals, and smiled, “...or...maybe I really am a pixie and whisked you off to Neverland once, long ago, and come morning you thought it must’ve been a dream. Though with your voice….hmm, mmm...I would almost sooner guess it has whisked me off once to some realm or other, on a quixotic quest or fairy tale or, hmm, ” her wide flaring mask touched his as they spun, and wove into her train of thoughts, “or running with wolves.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HoodedStranger</strong> on <strong>15-10-2017, 15:20:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/f2/80/4e/f2804e8fbb9839cb88e859f9d8e2741a--christian-grey-christian-bale.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Sebastian<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Isobelle<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Costume (on the right):</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c9/86/a6/c986a671b4bc7d37dcf0501f1e55fc28.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>There was a certain fascination about standing on the sidelines, watching the rest of the milling crowd as they spun their partners and immersed themselves deeply in the music. He was a predator among sheep, a lion among gazelles and his hungry gaze watched the women, noting every curve, every subtle swell of exposed cleavage to where their dresses clung to their hips, some leaving little to nothing to the imagination while others only hinted at the delicious delicacies hidden beneath. He crossed his arms behind his back, content in his observations, watching his friends, the Count and Countess, rotate between partner after partner, serving their duties as hosts to make each of their guests feel welcome and appreciated. One gloved hand snaked out to grasp another glass of champagne from a passing server, idly sipping the contents beneath his mask until the glass was empty and was returned to another passing tray.<br><br>"Mhmm," He mused, his voice deep and smooth, like honey. "Milady graces me with her presence and I find myself astounded. So many bountiful partners to dance with and you choose me? I'm honored."<br><br>His blue gaze trailed slowly down the exposed caramel-hued skin, admiring the curves on display, his fingers parting and intertwining with hers, thumb brushing over the back of her hand. "Alas, I was merely waiting for one brave enough to venture forward and offer their hand to me. It's such a bore being the one to always seek out what I want, better yet to wait for one who wants the same to come to me, saves some of the future trouble and questioning. Besides, it's fun to stand back and watch others, it tends to reveal those who are more adventurous than others."<br><br>"May I have this next dance?" He inquired, lifting the back of her to his lips and pressing it against the mask where his lips would be, his blue gaze intent within the shadows of the eye holes. "I would like to take you up on that offer for delight."<br><br>He didn't wait for a reply, pulling her behind him as he made his way out on to the dance floor as the orchestra began it's next number, spinning her against him, the soft planes of her body colliding with his solid, angular ones. He ran a hand along her back and down to rest on her hip, the other never relinquishing their clasping of her own. He swayed gently to the right and left, putting first one foot forward and then the other, leaning forward to spin her to the length of his wingspan before spinning her back against him, dipping her, his hand cupping her lower back to keep her from falling as he leaned forward, blue gaze glowing from within the shadows of his mask.<br><br>He chuckled as he lowered her back to her feet, fingers running through her hair and along the length of her shoulder. "Have I granted you what you seek?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chou chou rheastar</strong> on <strong>16-10-2017, 08:12:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Name:&nbsp; Countess Mina<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Markus<br>Titus and Mina (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E_u21VRet_o/S-hMK0lYR3I/AAAAAAAAApU/iaWkszaUpds/s1600/JoanAllenPhoto_RedDress.jpg)<br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/e6/28/fc/e628fc54c2bd126af7edf8c4adac66c3.jpg)</div><hr><br>Mina laughed delightedly at his comment and the way it had slipped passed his lips almost without his bidding. It was always fun to see how the newest invitee's to her soiree's reacted when they thought they had overstepped their boundaries before they realized Titus and herself participated in a polyamorus relationship. Sometimes it was refreshing to hear what a person thought without their censoring of themselves for fear of making themselves look bad or fear of the media forced them into silence.<br><br>As the song wound down she allowed their bodies to brush more often, the head of his larger body making her breath quicken wickedly. She loved the beginning of this dance, the dance that happens when you lust after another person. Mina licked her lips as he mentioned his enjoyment of balls dramatically improving and she laughed again, twirling in his arms with her skirts flowing around them gracefully. "I am glad my little party has improved your opinion of balls so much."<br><br>Sensing the change in tone Mina thought seriously about his question as the song drew to a close, with the last strains of music she stood up a little closer and spoke in his ear. Her breath tickling the shell of his ear as her whole body leaned against his intimately, "I was born into this kind of life, my dear." The song had ended but they stood still in the dance floor as others changed partners or waited for the next song to start. "You learn to control what you give to others, you are the master of your own media and you play them so that they do not play you," Mina sighed and slid back down to stand a respectable distance from Markus, "You learn to give yourself room to find a safe space or safe people to trust and then you just don't care anymore what others think."<br><br>With a brilliant smile she brought his hand up and kissed his palm, leaving the barest trace of lipstick there. "I must get the banquet started, I hope to see you before the night is through." At that she let go completely and stepped back to turn and disappear into the crowd with a swirl of skirts and a soft whiff of her perfume.<br><br>Name:&nbsp; Hudson<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Isobelle and then Auden<br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/42/a3/5a/42a35abe713de6973b48c08310d19270--bearded-men-dont-care.jpg)</div> <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">costume</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/2b/d0/d6/2bd0d682c42f9eab7a107e3e2f0cc518.jpg)</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/16/ac/e5/16ace5367f9e9629bae9f9fd0da47828--raven-mask-mask-ideas.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>Hudson enjoyed the way his chosen dance partner moved so sinuously against him and fit so well in his arms. Once the castle was open to them he was sure to find her again as he enjoyed the way she flirted and promised much more with her eyes. Hudson moved her around the floor expertly, he own dancing prowess making the dance even more enjoyable. Her lips at his ear made his skin tingle and he grinned at her words, she gave him just enough information to answer his questions but yet keep her identity a secret and it delighted him. <br><br>As the song wound down and she slid against his body sensuously he growled deep in his chest at her kiss. His big hands clenched for a moment at her back and then let go as she stepped back and away from him. "I'll be looking, " Hudson promised and watched her leave. Seeing her turn to another and start to dance with him he cast his eyes about the room for another dance partner. Seeing a very pretty blue fairy his eyes crinkled in laughter and intrigue. Stepping towards the blue swathed figure he gently fingered one wing as he bent his head in greeting. <br><br>"Care to dance?" Hudson held out a massive hand and smiled down at the prettily dressed fairy.<br><br><br>Name:&nbsp; Count Titus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Elia<br>Titus and Mina (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E_u21VRet_o/S-hMK0lYR3I/AAAAAAAAApU/iaWkszaUpds/s1600/JoanAllenPhoto_RedDress.jpg)<hr><br>Titus enjoyed the overexcited babble the girl spoke as he whisked her onto the ballroom floor. It was refreshing to have someone so excited simply to be in such a place and even in his arms for a dance. So used to the jaded or calculating women who frequented his social circles he was delighted by her sincere enjoyment and effervescence. <br><br>"That is the point of the evening, my lady, " Titus spun her around the floor with effortless grace as they spoke, his eyes glittering with amusement and enjoyment in equal measure, "you may be Christine or you may be whisked away by a vampire. It is a magical night." <br><br>As the dance drew to a close he laughed delighted when she pirouetted out of his arms, trying very hard not to chuckle as she stumbled into the white wolf nearby. He acknowledged the end of their dance with a half bow and melted into the crowd, presumably to dance with another person in attendance. An ever present smile on his face as he caught sight of his wife and met her eyes before the sea of people parted their gaze again.<br><br><hr><br>https://youtu.be/wAKK4yV9584<br><br>Next a Samba began to play and the dancers moved faster, their energy and the volume rising with the music. As the song drew to a close a bell rang and the ball goers could see the Count and Countess once more standing on the stairs. Two massive doors off one side of the ballroom, the other doors everyone had entered into the ballroom had closed, were open and lead towards the banquet hall. <br><br>"I hope you have enjoyed out dancing so far, please if you find yourself in need of some refreashment and a little break from dancing, join us in the banquet hall!" The Count spoke, loud enough to be heard but not yelling. The Countess gestured towards the banquet hall, which you could see gleaming with more candles. "Once the banquet has been started more doors will open to you and you may feel free to wander the castle or keep dancing and eating." Her eyes narrowed and she smiled sharply, "You will find any door you are not meant to enter will not be easily opened and I beg of you not to test out hospitality," with another smile she swept a curtsy and the Count took her arm and they disappeared back into the crowd.<br><br>The banquet hall was filled with candles, black crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling and softly jeweled bats and crows could be seen nesting in glittering branches and arches of the ceiling. Each table had a richly jeweled skull or tasteful centerpiece of flowers and one side of the room had a large banquet table filled to bursting with any food imaginable for a feast such as this.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>16-10-2017, 21:00:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h164/ybfchic/August%202015%20Part%20V/xe7.png)</div>Name: Markus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Claudine &amp; mentioning a whole lot of people.<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/07/2c/e3/072ce358a93c0201be6125842da2b4d4--anubis-symbol-anubis-tattoo.jpg)</div></div> <br><hr><br>...and like that, she was gone. Markus watched the alluring figure of the Countess disappear into the crowd. Her presences still lingering after their first dance in a multitude of ways. The young Boxer, still standing at the edge of the ballroom dance floor, took a moment to study his palm and the barely visible token Mina had left there. Cade was amused by the thought, that of all the things that were ever left in his hand by a woman, this one was truly quite different. It wasn't a phone number written on a scrap of paper or written on his palm directly with pen or sharpie. It wasn't a hotel card key or a pair of panties tossed at him like that one night after that fight party. Those actions spoke, all too clearly, of their intent; like the Woman herself, it was an elegant gesture that could mean a variety of things and always left the receiver looking for the giver for answers later in the night. <br><br><em>'Maybe, I'm making to much of this...'</em> M.J.C. thought as he closed his hands around the impression. <em>'Yeah right..let's keep it real Markus, you're probably not going to wash this hand for awhile...'</em> Still, the Lady's advice was on point and if she was able to survive the pressure of her station, without ill-effect this long, then the Fighter figured he should take her words to heart. <br><br>Snatching a glass of sparkling wine from one of those wandering servants, who somehow defied natural human endurance by holding trays in the most uncomfortable looking positions; the Anibus warrior started to look for new entertainment. The number of available women had decreased significantly while M.J.C. was occupied with the Countess, with most having found dancing partners of their own. Still, they were a few worth noting for future reference, as Markus just experience, dance partners go as quickly as they come.<br><br>There was a slip of a girl in all white, beautiful with long flowing hair who looked as if she would be just as happy sitting on a fairy tale toadstool as she was engaging an older and distinguished looking Gentleman. "Oh... I hope I look that good when I'm older." The Boxer remarked though chances were that Markus wouldn't do to having an occupation that involves very angry men trying to beat you about the face. There was another vision of beauty in all azure at the edge of the dance floor who's blue and gold dress echoed the colors of the Boxers own mask. Yet as Cade step forward he smiled to himself catching the subtle tells that suggest this "woman" was, in fact, a man. Before turning to focus his cataloging elsewhere he remarked "Very well done, Sir," Markus said to the ether. "Not my cup of tea but I will admit you do look good." <br><br>Then there was the exotic looking Sister at the other end of the ballroom. A form-fitting dress and a silver half mask that did its job well by adding a measure of mystery to the sexiness. The light chocolate skin enchantress had made herself available to a fellow in all blue and white finery and seemed to be enjoying herself with the attention. Later, if she is alone, Cade would make it a point to approach this woman simply to figure out where she was from as she looked to be of mixed heritage, like himself.&nbsp; <br><br>As the Anibus Warrior started to move around the ballroom. He passed by a Woman in a red dress and mask who possible partner, adorned in an ebony bird-like facade, had just departed. Markus stepped close to the woman and hoping that he just read the interaction right remarked, "Got to love the ones that play hard to get... but usually they are the&nbsp; most fun to be with when caught." Not wanting to impose more than he had, he bows before the woman "My apologies for being forward, I'm a bit out of my element here. Still, if you get tired of the pursuit come find me..." M.J.C. gives the young woman a devilish grin before stating. "...I like to be caught." Stepping away, still bowed at the waist, Cade turns and heads off to let the young Lady decide which suitor she might choose to chase. <br><br>Continuing his search The Fighter passes by another stark Beauty wearing an interesting batlike Mask who has attracted the attention of a Blue Dragon. The Man leading his companion to the floor just as the live band finally plays a song that Markus has heard before. "Oh Hell No... Black Eyed Peas!? I've got to find a dance partner..."<br><br>Turning in a full circle Cade caught the glance of a woman who looked as much a superheroine in a burgundy dress as she did a Lady at a ball. Eyes flecked with gold locked onto the Boxer's deep browns for just a second before passing over as if uninterested. "No. No.. no, your not getting off that easy. You saw me and I saw you." Markus quipped as he headed straight in the multi-colored masked woman's direction. She couldn't possibly have missed Markus's intent at making contact despite the impression that she simply didn't wish to be bothered. <br><br>As M.J.C. got closer he notices, due to being an athlete himself, that this Lady was far more tone and muscled than one would have thought a debutant would be. In fact, she looked incredibly fit and could probably hold her own against the Lightweight Champion's grueling work out routine. The superheroine reference was looking more and more fitting as Markus got closer. Now with the Anibus Warrior looming directly before the unknown and wealthy Heiress she couldn't help but level those eyes on the Anubis Warrior once again, the sparkling heart shaped gem and choker that rested around the Lady's neck drawing Cade's eyes downward before looking back up. <br><br>There was a moment of awkward silence as Markus stared at the woman behind the mask, then the Fighter spoke abruptly in the negative. "You're flattered by my attention but your not interested in whatever I have to say. Your not looking for a dancing partner at this moment but when you do you'll keep me in mind. My outfit is ridiculous and speaks volumes too how out of place I am in all this and quite frankly your just not in my league. Who the Hell do I think I am!?" M.J.C. waits a moment for dramatic effect before smiling and ending with, "Did I get them all?" <br><br>"Now, that we got all that out of the way maybe we can be real about this." Markus turns back to the dance floor and points. "That probably the only song I'm going to know this whole night and it's one of my favorites. Now I'm going to dance to it and I'm willing to throw you over my shoulder to get you out there with me." Offering his hand the Boxers continues, "Now you look marvelous and I can tell that you have the body for this so, please... because throwing you over my shoulder would probably have me in jail for assault and that's after you kick my ass. I'm hoping that you will save me from myself and simply just accept my invitation to dance..." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mimetisme</strong> on <strong>17-10-2017, 03:46:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://78.media.tumblr.com/340353926d30224378a32e525b272a78/tumblr_oxxz9cXbTS1vxwaceo1_250.gif) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Claudine<br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom&nbsp; <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Attire</div><div class="spoiler_body"> (https://78.media.tumblr.com/3878bda0143cedb7662109ca4f9ef34a/tumblr_oxtstwsgJu1vxwaceo1_400.gif)</div></div><br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Markus<br><hr> <br><strong><em><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">A</span></em></strong>fter the beverage became empty, Claudine waited a few moments before lightly touching her hand to a waiter, quietly asking how to dispose of her empty flute. A motion of a head, she understood, though simply had not wanted to assume. Trading her empty for a filled on, she nodded her gratitude before stepping from the waiter's path. The memories were coming back, even more, a part of her knowing the woman she once was no doubt haughtily laughed at who she was now. So quiet, so reserved, so distant. Focused on all the wrong things this annual festival was about. Not to say later certain business arrangements could not be made. Only that should not be her only focus right now. If anything, business was the last thing she should have on her mind at the moment. Instead, she should be like those around her who were simply joyful and enjoying the festivity, no cares of yesterdays and tomorrows. Frowning slightly as she raised her the rim of the flute to her lips, it sounded like such an easy feat. After all, this had once been an aspect of life she thrilled under.<br><br>The opportunity to be bold she found ebbing away as the music began to slow into its final notes. In that, she took sipped down the contents of her drink, hoping the alcohol at least would help to loosen her up. Made it all of a few steps when a wall rose from nowhere,&nbsp; both blocking and crowding her as she lightly gasped. It took a second then she recalled the figure before her. Well, she recalled the mask at least. Not that short ago her gaze had landed in his direction, though she looked quickly away after a connection had been made. Too stubborn lost in her thoughts, more focused on all that did not matter as she made a retreat to fetch a drink. No better time than the present to make right of her standoffish if not rude behavior. Which was why a gentle smile laced across her lips, a gleam catching in her eyes as they peered at him from behind the mask, ready to extend her hand towards him. Ready, then stopped as the Anibus Warrior took the initiative from her. Though eyes narrowed slightly, they soon widened slightly as did her smile deepen as he seemed rabble on at first. <br><br>Well, at least she was not the only one who had a touch of nervousness Claudine noted as he continued talking, not pausing long enough for her to have a chance to speak. Had it not been for his choice of mask, she would have placed a finger to his lips. If she had, it might have prevented her shaking her head, chuckling quietly under her breath. Not at him, not directly, no. Was many a thing but not that callous and cruel. Not that she was aware of that was. All the same, she raised a hand, holding a finger up, giving him a moment to catch his breath. Imagined it certainly must get warm under that mask for him. Lowering her hand to chest level, she motioned to the practically empty flask in her hand. "<em>I am not so sure I could take on an Anubis Warrior,</em>" she began, gentle in her tone as a gleam made the flecks of gold to her eyes sparkle, breathing forth a note of her mystery by holding a rather thick Italian accent. "<em>And you did miss one of my witty excuses I had planned. As you can see,</em>" and she held up her empty glass, balancing on the tip of two fingers with ease to reveal a tiny drop still existed. "<em>I have yet to finish my drink</em>."<br><br>It was horrible, she knew it as did he, the attempt she made at humor to shave off some of the ice barriers she had unfortunately presented. Though to follow it, a small step back was made, a knee gave small bend under her gown as she curtseyed before him, offering him a tilt of head nod before rising. "<em>I would be honored to dance with you if you think you can keep up,</em>" she said with a wink from behind her mask, her soft smile deepening. No sooner had the words left her lips, her hand was slipping into his, gaze swiping around to find a place to set her empty vessel, which she did. "<em>I must say, that is quite a bold choice of mask and attire you chose. Though I suspect you are no stranger to being bold,</em>" she mused lightly though loud enough for him to hear as he guided her to floor where other bodies were already in full swing of the hurried movements of the Samba. "<em>Certainly challenges old-world custom, which I find quite refreshing, to be honest.</em>"&nbsp; &nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MsMonster</strong> on <strong>18-10-2017, 06:33:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i65.tinypic.com/209kemw.jpg)<br></div>Name:&nbsp; Marieme<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging:&nbsp; Chester<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i63.tinypic.com/qs4mrt.jpg)</div></div><br><hr><br>The champagne was going straight to Marieme's head. She was rather unaccustomed to alcohol as she had never really been much of a dinker. Except, of course, for that period of time she was under investigation as a suspected murderess. Though she would be unlikely to admit it, she had turned to the bottle more often than not then. But, that time was over and tonight was for celebration. And so, she had finished her first glass of champagne within minutes of her first sip. So much for moderation. A pleasant lightness began to fill her head as she, once again, placed her hand into Chester's and they chose a place on the dance floor.<br><br>Turning to face her first partner of the evening, Marieme grinned as their bodies came together. Her hand still in his grip as the other came to rest on his shoulder. Feeling his other hand slide behind her back, the Blue Dragon began to lead her through the room with ease. The curious pair swaying in time to the music that filled the air all around them. She like the way they moved together and found herself inching oh-so-subtly closer to this unknown, yet captivating gentleman as their dance continued. Though, she had the feeling that she was not the only one gradually coming closer to the other, occasionally brushing against as they stepped. <em>“You're quite a fine dancer, sir. Perhaps we may share more of them this evening.” </em>She uttered softly.<br><br>The music began to wind down and all the guests turned to their lovely hostess as she addressed the party The banquet hall was now to be opened for everyone to enjoy. Many of the guests seemed to have been anxiously awaiting this announcement as it now meat that they were also free to explore the castle... more or less. The countess' warning almost had the distinct ring of a threat to it and a quiet, nervous murmur began to rise over the hushed crowd. The mood was quickly shifted back to one of celebration and revelry as the music began to play once more.<br><br>At the mention of the banquet now being opened, Marieme suddenly realised that she could probably do with a small bite to eat. The large, heavy doors of the banquet hall opened and the smell of the fine foods within drifted into the room. She turned to the gentleman by her side and offered another curtsy in appreciation of the lovely dance they had shared moments ago. <em>“I do find myself somewhat in need of refreshment. Of course, you are certainly welcome to join me in the banquet hall, if you wish. If not, Perhaps our paths shall cross again later in this evening.”</em> She reached with a slender arm to a passing tray and picked up another glittering crystal flute of champagne.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kore</strong> on <strong>18-10-2017, 07:28:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/wmj18shm.jpg)</div><span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Name:</strong> <em>Imogen Payne</em><br><strong>Location:</strong> <em>Ballroom</em><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> <em>open</em></span><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">the ensemble</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.imgur.com/FBTFFV3.png)</div></div><hr><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><em><strong>W</strong></em></span>hether or not Imogen had been there from the beginning of the night or had arrived late was something few people would know. Her costume was dark, save for her pale skin, and she blended in well with the shadows amidst the eerie and elegant decor when she wasn't moving among the other attendees. Imogen would raise a hand in a slight gesture when various footmen would approach her with silver trays of beverages; sobriety might lend her certain advantages for this part of the evening. <br><br>Mostly, Imogen watched. <br><br>She watched others stalking about the ballroom like predators, carefully choosing their prey; she watched others drinking and exchanging chatter; she watched others gossiping, conspiring. She watched women, emboldened by the anonymity of their costumes and masks, approach men or other women for company and a dance; she watched men linger on the outskirts of the dance floor, considering their next move. Imogen even watched, with some amusement, couples and groups that had arrived together already disbanding in the spirit of the masked evening. Would they pretend to be strangers when they met up again later? This idea amused her, though Imogen's face didn't display it. <br><br>In fact, her face displayed very little. Past the mask, Imogen's eyes were painted with a charcoal-black smokey eye and her thick lashes batted against the eyelets of her mask; her lips, below and undeniably well-shaped, were colored the dark, black-red of venous blood - and for all this decoration, Imogen's visage was composed into an expression of impartial stoicism. <br><br>For a little while, Imogen danced.<br><br>Though, that may be a generous descriptor. She'd lent herself into the arms of several men for the length of a song and a half as they'd moved over and around the ballroom floor, until Imogen had grown weary of the activity or song or company and resigned herself to the shadows, blending in with the decor again. The woman watched for some time more from a languid recline on a chaise lounge she'd found in a corner of the ballroom, part of a small sitting area arranged there and thus far unused save for herself; Imogen remained observant and unmoved even as the Count and Countess announced the opening of the banquet hall and that the castle would then start opening to them sometime after that. <br><br>While Imogen did have some desire to explore the venue, she had already drawn the conclusion that it would be a wasted evening. She had accepted the invitation from the intrigue alone, but later had wondered... Imogen had very nearly not come at all - but that would have been deeply frowned upon, a slap in the face to her hosts - especially after she had already replied in the affirmative of her attendance. Her fingers darted through the silver tresses of her hair briefly and then returned to the velvet cushion of the chaise under her, fingers stroking the soft fabric. The cuts in the black silk chiffon skirt of her dress parted with how she lounged and exposed her extended legs; the fabric draped over the seat around her and pooled on the floor under the chaise. <br><br>Her detached expression remained and her eyes passively looked on the revelers who remained in the ballroom as the music started up again. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Esmeralgirl</strong> on <strong>18-10-2017, 08:13:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft"> (https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ40nzdTwRD_5SMMgeHzjusJCf6mshR6ITkJaD-3WAbQi1iE2Brpw) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Kore <br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dress</div><div class="spoiler_body"> <br>[img height =400]https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcStiMyqeF08Fiu_PFUxqYmTmQtr6Ws52eXfsaEGKEn7Xdn3LZou_A[/img] </div></div> <br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Stephen and Imogen<br><hr> <br><br>That was unexpected, totally not what she thought would happen when she tried to taunt him. He side stepped her taunt without falling into her trap and&nbsp; she could've facepalmed herself in a very unlady-like mannerism but before that could happen, his hands were on her waistline. With firm grip, without any chance of her protesting, she was turned around, his hard chest pressed against her back. With breathing quickened, she stared ahead as his words made her blush behind the mask. She may be confident but still she was inexperienced, especially when someone bestow such fine yet dirty words. She could sense the underlying innuendo but she didn't tried to move or protest. Standing still, as her chest rise and fall in quick succession, Kore felt him move away&nbsp; with his words urging her to find a dance partner. Turning her head around she saw him moving back into the crowd. For a while she thought of following him, after all how hard it was to follow his mask when especially he was wearing not so much complimentary mask and suit but she thought better of it. If that's what he wishes, then let it be. Turning around as Countess announce the opening of the Banquet hall, Kore grins and started to walk toward the Hall along with many others as many dancers started to wither away. <br><br>From the corner of her eyes she noticed two new ladies, one dressed a bit Gothic, in her opinion while the second one who was almost like a shadow was more dressed like to assassinate. She had an intense look, sitting on a chair like a Queen and who knows that she must have been one. Moving aside from the crowd of people which moving into the hall, Kore decided to study the one who was watching everyone with a look of disinterest. Her eyes and face were clear enough like she was detached from this place, in her very own world. Deciding to try her luck with another interaction, Kore walked up to her, aware of Her eyes on her to she neared. <br><br>"Hello, I think I must be late but would the Lady mind a dance?" She speak in a soft whisper, little intimidated under her gaze as their eyes were locked, neither of them giving under the stare of the other one. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chou chou rheastar</strong> on <strong>18-10-2017, 08:37:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				https://youtu.be/4ysVNuHY-sQ<br><br>A Paso Doble starts to play as some people choose to enter the banquet hall and some choose to keep dancing. The song, of course, many recognize and a few give a chuckle as they take to the dance floor.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ArtemisHighmore</strong> on <strong>18-10-2017, 22:25:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://www.duchamplondon.com/duchamp_blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/aiden-shaw-6.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Open, Elia, Imogen, Kore<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Outfit</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b7/26/e5/b726e50a805a2b3dc61a60b5b5d5ff2e--aiden-shaw-summer-campaign.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>Although there was no way for William to read her thoughts, he might have found it amusing that while she was caught up in thoughts of what sort of life he had lived, his own mind was filled with memories of past dances and revelries such as this, of the various people he had the pleasure to meet over his adventurous life, the countess being one of those. He had always felt, and often acted like he had one foot caught in the past, from the times long gone when such events and gatherings had been the normal. He certainly felt that he could have fit well in the Victorian era, and perhaps even a little before that. <br><br>Pulled from his thoughts by her voice, he turned his flickering eyes down towards her, listening to her going on about modeling and being in a few magazines. No, he was quite certain that was not where he was getting the familiarity from, mostly because he didn’t often have the time or the inclination to pick up such periodicals. He had been to a few galleries on his last tour but those had been primarily filled with paintings and sculptures. No, he was quite certain that she might have been a student of his in the past but that list was long and covered a couple continents. A playful half smile tugged at the right corner of his mouth, just visible beneath his mask as she seemed to catch herself from revealing too much, instead turning to tease. “Have you run with wolves before? It can be quite exhilarating. To be so wild and free.”<br><br>Turning her slowly with the flow of the music, William’s gaze was caught by the curious shadow along the edge, his gaze taking in a pale beauty in black. He wasn’t sure if the pale flesh was what caught his attention or the delightful upturned horns of her mask. More than a little intrigued and confident that the lovely little pixie before him would understand, he drew them towards the edge of the crowd as the song began to wind down. “That was a delightful&nbsp; adventure, if I might be so bold as to say so. Hopefully we will have the opportunity to do so once more before the evening as closed, that is of course if you feel confident enough to hunt a wolf.”<br><br>Deciding to tease her, since he had gotten the since that she was quite new to these things, he lifted Elia’s hand to his whiskered face and gave a playful kiss. Stepping away, he turned his gaze back to where the intriguing shadow had been. And there she was not. Arching a brow behind his mask, he shifted his gaze slightly, wondering if his own mind was already playing tricks on him, getting all caught up in the atmosphere. Deciding that he would fetch himself another drink for his search, he stepped towards the wall when he caught the shift of horns out of the corner of his eyes, seeing them over the heads of several gossiping party goers. Abandoning the quest for the drink, he moved towards the shifting horns. He was almost there…<br><br>Only to arrive second. A beauty in red stood before his intended target and he tilted his head slightly to the side, as he hadn’t seen her yet either. Of course he had expected the place to be absolutely packed. How often does a Count and a Countess in this day and age hold such a party? It was an excellent opportunity to meet and greet, to rub elbows and make all matter of connections, especially if you didn’t put too much stock in the masks. William had actually worked out his book deal at an event like this, having caught a dance with an editor and the rest was successful history. He was about to turn away, to seek that drink after all when he heard the opening bars of the next song.<br><br>Closing the distance between himself and the pair of lovely ladies, he flashed a smile through his white whiskers, bowing his head. “Forgive my intrusion, but I was wondering if you two were familiar with trio dance form of a Paso Doble song? I daresay it is a bit flamboyant if you feel up to the task and do not mind being observed by the crowd…”<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>18-10-2017, 23:53:36</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Ballroom -&gt; Banquet<br>Tagging: William, Chester, Marieme, Open<br>Mentioning: Isobelle, Sebastian<br><hr><br>Elia curtsied gracefully at the conclusion of her dance with the White Wolf, as she thought of him now; she had taken to the way ‘Bella’ had chosen nicknames for the two of them, and now Elia started to think of those she met in such terms. It was fun, it added to the anonymizing fantasy, and it might just help her keep needed track if she had too much more champagne. <br><br>“I dearly hope we do cross paths again, White Wolf,” Elia told this fellow who seemed to simply smell of refined culture, every bit as much as she thought she had caught notes of scotch on his breath and maybe even classic car chrome and leather on his fingertips. Her mind bounced back to fond memories of her father’s car collection, and rides on sunny days…<br><br>She had to focus yet again. “...happy hunting, for if you haul of any other maidens on the way to grandma’s house, well...I’ll have a picnic basket to share with them just the same.”<br><br>She cooed softly at the kiss on her hand, and restrained herself enough to politely let him go a-hunting. <br><br>She looked about, caught a glimpse of Bella in the crowd - and Elia’s eyes lingered too on the dashing figure she seemed to have engaged. Elia became intensely curious, and remembered some delicious ideas Bella had alluded to before….but for the moment, Elia practiced restrained again, better to let Bella stir the pot of any black magic she already had brewing with the gentleman. <br><br>The announcement of the banquet was well timed, then, for Elia and her barely contained restraint. She was quick to glide in that direction...and just as quick to tell herself <em>no overeating, not even on a special occasion tonight! You have a photo shoot in just a few days and you skipped barre class today!</em> <br><br>On the way, she plucked a champagne flute from the same tray as the fellow blonde she had noticed before, her ‘wicked stepmother’ as she had mentally dubbed her. She could have sworn she caught a glimpse of extended canines, like...vampire fangs!?...well, it was the holiday of the hereafter, so it was just a costume, <em>right? Oh my…how deep a rabbit hole have you got down now, Alice...</em><br><br>Elia - suddenly very conscious of her long and pale her own collar and throat must look in her own slung gown -&nbsp; smiled at her and to the masked dragon, who somehow seemed to draw her in a bit with a gravity of mystery. <em>Wolves and dragons and vampires, oh my!</em> She told them, without lingering too long in case she had interrupted some flirtation pregnant with possibility, “Evening, Sir, Madame, isn't this ball fang- <em>fun</em>, isn't this ball fun? Maybe we can dance together or some such shared diversion after dining….since I’m off to dine on….well you know, <em>food</em>…ohh look at me, when I get talking I just drag on-"<br><br>She took another sip of champagne, the only thing that suppressed another nervous laugh. <em>Don’t be crazy, be a lady, Elia Benoit! You’re not really some monster-chased medieval maid, and these fine people aren’t literally cannibals or anything like that! It’s just Halloween! The only appetites and devouring to worry about are…</em> well, that next thought just made Elia blush deeply. She was grateful for her mask and cheek glitter, but neither would hide the blush entirely.<br><br>She took a seat at one of the tables. She had a nice view of a few beautiful people across from her, but the seats by her were still free. <br><br>A jeweled skull centerpiece at her table was grinning at her, its eyes big and hollow, with flanking candles casting it in a supernatural glow. She had a crazy thought that it was some cursed thing from a pirate movie, speaking to her. “Hey! Psst! You there! Angel!” the voice barked in her mind. “Now don’t starve yourself too much this eve, or you’ll end up looking like me! Tonight’s the night for indulgence, princess, oh yes. For cravings sated, yet leaving you hungry for more…eventually, everyone ends up like me, just a pile of bones...yes, even you, beautiful, no flesh lasts forever....so you might as well do all you can with that flesh while it’s nice and young and tight! Ohhh, if I still had one particular bone...”<br><br>Elia blinked, and chased this imagined fancy with the rest of her third flute of champagne, as if it that were the thing to keep one sane. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>19-10-2017, 02:31:03</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h164/ybfchic/August%202015%20Part%20V/xe7.png)</div>Name: Markus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Claudine<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/07/2c/e3/072ce358a93c0201be6125842da2b4d4--anubis-symbol-anubis-tattoo.jpg)</div></div> <br><hr><br>Markus feigned disappointment as the burgundy-clad Seductress held up her glass up to display the minute amount of liquid left inside. The two stared at each other for a long moment before hard-fought smiles broke across their mirroring faces. Humor cracked the ice that coating the interaction like a sledgehammer. Then the mysterious Woman took a step back and curtseyed accepting the rather flamboyant invitation to dance with a wink beneath her multicolored domino mask. Cade bowed graciously in acknowledgment and extended his hand towards his new dance partner. The Boxer took note as strong and deceptively nimble fingers slid across his palm and as he gathered the unknown Woman within his grasp he cut a path thru the throng of Ball attendees to reach the dance floor before the song ended. <br><br>The Samba is not a dance for the faint of heart as the rhythmic moves, that originated in Brazil, can test the body as harshly as any aerobic workout. As soon as the Champ's feet hit the ballroom dance floor, M.J.C. stopped and spun, catching the trailing beauty by the waist and coming up behind and locking her enticing frame against his. Then, as if they were two wrist watches that had been synchronized on the mark, the pair took to the rhythm of Mas Que Nada with a series of twist and turns that was exciting to see. <br><br>"Well, some might say 'bold' is another word for foolishness and if that's the case you are correct. I am quite 'bold'. Markus said in a playful self-deprecating way. Another twist, another turn. Legs moving in wild but coordinated fashion each dance partner challenging the other with more intricate and complex moves only to be matched and countered in an exchange of body and limbs. As Markus caught the gorgeous Brunette's left leg and carried her bodily into the next series of steps he wished the song wouldn't reach it's approaching climatic end. <br><br>"Girl please, I've got the feeling that I'm an amateur at challenging the status quo to compare to you. There's a bit of danger in those eyes, hiding behind that mask of yours. Perhaps after the unmasking, you'll tell me if my gut is on point."<br><br>As the song finally bleeds and the energy in the room returns to normal, the Anubis warrior and his masked accomplice stopped in a sudden finish. Both Man and Woman breathing a bit heavier than they should've been in a tight embrace before realizing eyes are upon them and breaking apart. <br><br>"Thank you, M'lady, for the dance. It was most... invigorating." Cade offered as the announcement of the banquet hall opening up carried across the room. Patrons of the night starting to fall in line; all heading to satisfy growing appetites. <br><br>"I don't want to stop your mingle... but if you want an escort to the hall I'm heading that way?"<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Yarnover</strong> on <strong>19-10-2017, 03:01:24</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://www.dhresource.com/260x260s/f2-albu-g4-M00-CF-D7-rBVaEVm2dACAFqNkAAEahK7FXcs926.jpg/luxury-detail-gold-embroidery-quinceanera.jpg)</div><strong>Name</strong>&nbsp; Auden (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=276238.msg13580676#msg13580676)<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Markus, Hudson<br><br><hr><br>Auden gave a sly grin the dark man's way when he regarded him. He swept an arm out wide and bowed his head; it was as close as he would get to a dramatic stage bow in this particular environment. "That's quite a compliment, Sir." He said quietly before Anubis slipped away. <br><br>Before long, he found himself curiously distracted by the unknown man's touch of his wing. He looked over his shoulder and studied what he could of the gentleman's features for a moment while pulling his glossy lips into a rather shy smile. The man towered over him and it made Auden feel even more the part he chose to play that evening. He turned to slide his manicured hand into Holden's and gave a little curtsy. "I would be delighted..." He responded aloud. His voice, like the rest of his presentation, did little to make his sex any easier known. It was soft and cool and easy on the ears like a jazzy contralto.&nbsp; <br><br>"You'll have to forgive me..." He started as they moved out to the floor. "I haven't done much dancing in my life." It was a true enough statement, but Auden was far more worried about letting someone else lead rather than stepping on any toes. He fit into the form easily enough, hands at the right spots, eyes kept on his partner's and off the floor... so the beginning was smoother than expected at least. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vlexia</strong> on <strong>19-10-2017, 04:18:37</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a9/e0/ca/a9e0cad0f1fe82aadad6f95ed69dc14d.jpg)</div> <strong>Name:</strong> Isobelle<br><strong>Location: </strong>Ballroom---&gt; Banquet Hall<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Gown</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/UT8dpECXPdaXXagOFbXx.jpg_640x10000.jpg)<br></div></div><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Sebastian---&gt; Elia<br><div class="floatright">(https://sites.create-cdn.net/siteimages/5/0/3/50308/93/2/8/9328459/747x1000.jpg?1416057531)</div><hr>"<strong>Milady graces me with her presence and I find myself astounded. So many bountiful partners to dance with and you choose me? I'm honored."</strong><br><br>"As you should be..." Isobelle counted playfully like the spoiled woman that she was as he explained the occasional enjoyment of being the hunted rather than the hunter. Her head inclined respectfully when he kissed her knuckles tenderly before leading her onto the dance floor, giggling behind him as he quickly led the way.<br><br>The song was more upbeat than romantic versus the first one, but there were no complaints on her end when her masked Partner in blue whirled her around and clasped her so tightly to him that she lost her breath a little, lips parted, and looking up at him through the eye holes of her mask. All she could see of him were his cerulean pupils, but it was all she needed to see as they tossed over her like the waves of the ocean, intent and stormy with just a touch of dangerous playfulness. Isobelle rested her arm across his shoulders and followed his lead, stepping back when he stepped forward, coming forward when he pulled back, her movements much more flamboyant with her hips than his as she sashayed them to the beat an rhythm of the music being played.<br><br>When her Knight in Blue dipped her, a wide smile broke over her face before the set of white upper teeth pulled at her full bottom lip, tilting her head back so that the long, scented mass of her hair swayed towards the floor, her arms around his neck, and even her left thigh coming up the side of his body to display the long and smooth tan leg with her emerald heels that wrapped briefly around his right side. When she was lifted again, he ran his gloved hand through her thick mane and asked her if he had been exactly what she needed and searched for.<br><br>As answer, Isobelle yanked him off the dance floor by dragging him away with both of her hands in his and led him to a less crowded corner of the ballroom, innocently chuckling but not saying a single word at that moment. Stealing a full bodied glass of red wine that was later tasted and exposed as a very fine Cabernet, Isobelle took a long draw of the wine while maintaining bold eye contact before slipping up to press her mouth to his as an initial answer to his original question. The exotic woman parted her lips, inviting him to do the same, and allowed the strong vintage to flow over her lips and onto his, literally turning the kiss intoxicating.<br><br>It appeared that a bold touch such as this was her calling card as she had kissed all three people she was interested in that evening, including the silvery Angel whom she needed to find again. That's when she pulled back and trailed her tongue across the fullness of his lips before smirking up at him with eyes that had turned to molten amber from all the alcohol and attention she was receiving thus far.<br><br>"You have granted me the most delicious delight. I almost prefer you to the dinner in the banquet hall, but I must go find my friend," her fingertips rose to graze the cheekbone of his mask as she then stroked them down the side of his neck. "Farewell...for <em>now</em>..." the words implied a definite meeting in the future as she pulled away from the man leaving nothing but the taste of her on his lips and her scent of vanilla and pomegranates in the air.<br><br>Deciding the two dances were enough for now, Isobelle was excited and very interested to go to the Banquet Hall and feast upon all sorts of delicacies. There were many guests already gathered there but she spotted the flash of milky white and immediately descended upon it.<br><br>"Angel!" She said from behind the woman, wrapping her arms around her shoulders and leaning around the right side to kiss her ear. "You -did- tell me to find you..." the woman teased as she took the seat to her left and began cooing over the decorations on the table. "How was your dance with the Count? Oh! And I saw you with that Older Gentleman. Do you know each other? There was a hint of familiarity between the two of you..."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mimetisme</strong> on <strong>19-10-2017, 18:17:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<br><div class="floatleft">(https://78.media.tumblr.com/6617427db94f5628d26d9e54cf8d70e3/tumblr_oy2ux8SDbX1vxwaceo1_250.gif) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Claudine<br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom ≈ Banquet Hall <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Attire</div><div class="spoiler_body"> (https://78.media.tumblr.com/3878bda0143cedb7662109ca4f9ef34a/tumblr_oxtstwsgJu1vxwaceo1_400.gif)</div></div><br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Markus<br><hr> <br><span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font"><strong><em><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">W</span></em></strong></span>hat was it about such a graceful and heart racing dance that fed more of a gleam within Claudine's eyes as her gaze caressed her masked partner? The twists as muscles moved like mercury, constantly in fluid motion. There was not a second that could be wasted in a pause under such hurried steps and sharp turns of lethal intimacy. Twisted, tangled, the hearts of two bodies practically in sync as their bodies roared. One step forward. Four steps back. Extension of a limb in reach, only to snap back as though scorched. The rippling sea of red swirling and swishing, blurring as a shoed foot kicks without making an impact, only a brush of flesh against his cloth-covered leg. Prey and predator, they were both as her smile deepened and her eyes widened with a dangerous glint under his seizing her ankle. The pink tip of muscle caught gliding between the pout of her lips, eyes searing with intensity. A breath there. An exhale here. A violent harmony of rhythm that ever distantly made her wonder how he would fetch her in a challenge of capoeira.<br><br>The music controlled Claudine's body as much as did her masked partner's physical challenges. Though his words sailed and pierced hard as she laughed on a thin breath as they baited and taunted one another in swift movements. "<em>Dear sir</em>," she practically purred as she leaned in close before jerking back with a half kick of step. "<em>The windows to my soul can oft tell beautiful lies</em>," she spoke on just a breath as her back glanced against him as a hand lightly gripped his wrist. Guided his limb, letting his fingertips brush across her hip then thigh before flicking it away, stomach muscles moving in a slithering cascade of rolling motion as hips swayed before she spun. The gleam only deepened within her eyes, breaths coming and going in hurried pulls as their bodies hypnotically taunted one another in demand. All for their two worlds to collide on the last fading notes, no doubt leaving both their eyes glazed in hungry shine as they panted shallow breaths, hearts still furiously drumming. Time had stopped, the silence so loud it was deafening as it mingled with the war drumming in their chests. Then the second hand to the clocks in their minds clicked, and under the burning gazes of those who starred, like magnets, they repelled from one another.<br><br>It had been a rush and quite an exhilarating one at that. It even saw to not chipping, but, melting more of Claudine's frosting of ice away. There was still some of that frozen chill to her despite the pulsing heat coming from her body, Such a short-lived spell of being without words as the Anubis warrior stroked his own across her mind, shattering the haze of rampant thoughts that had no place in polite society. Words he offered though not his body as her gaze trickled over him in the silent thought of her reply. Option A, option B, the tennis match did not last long in her mind. A feral though sweet smile to her lips dimmed and faded, found reborn in a quiet gentleness as her chin dipped and lifted.<br><br>"<em>It is I who should be thanking you</em>," spilled forth Claudine's words, stepping and turning so to plant herself at his side. Brushing her velour entombed arm against his, the corner of her mouth twitched before her arm curled, linking herself to him. "<em>Twice for that matter</em>," she sighed, the notes of her Italian breed of stock seeming in sound to be heavier as she broke the trance of stare, vision following the other lovely masked creatures as they filed off to sate nourishing pangs of physical hunger. "<em>Your company is most welcomed but</em>," she mused aloud with a light exhale of a tempered chuckle as they joined the flowing river in heading towards the banquet hall. "<em>With your mask sealed to you as it is</em>," and it was reborn again, the shine of ice within her eyes that spoke more vibrantly than her next breath of words. As her neck guided her head to turn in giving a sideways glance to him, the corners of her painted lips tugging to draw her mouth into a playful shade of a mischevious grinner's smirk.<br><br>"<em>You might risk, starving, among the gathered pack here tonight, dear</em>."&nbsp; &nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Kore</strong> on <strong>19-10-2017, 19:32:38</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://i.imgur.com/wmj18shm.jpg)</div><span style="font-size: 8pt;" class="bbc_size"><strong>Name:</strong> <em>Imogen Payne</em><br><strong>Location:</strong> <em>Ballroom</em><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> <em>Kore &amp; William</em></span><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">the ensemble</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.imgur.com/FBTFFV3.png)</div></div><hr><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><em><strong>I</strong></em></span>mogen's cool grey eyes fell on the brunette in crimson as she approached her; it wasn't too challenging of a task to see when someone had an intent and in a crowd like this, one had to read the pieces on the chessboard carefully. Holding her gaze on the woman as she closed the distance, her grey eyes bore into the brunette's own brown pair - they were lovely, really, Imogen noticed as the woman spoke: such a deep shade of brown that it was hard to see the black of the iris in the center.<br><br>Tipping her head curiously, as though considering her question, she watched in her peripheral vision as a man clad all in white approached from behind her proposed dance partner. The Paso Doble as a trio. Imogen let the corners of her mouth slowly creep into a tight little smirk - it was an expression that very nearly seemed out of place on her darkly painted lips.<br><br>After a moment, in a fluid motion, Imogen swung her legs off the end of the chaise and stood - and for perhaps a second it seemed as though she was going to leave both of them without an answer. Her cool grey eyes had yet to leave the other woman's, but now they tore away, darting to the wolf's and then back to her after a lingering moment. <br><br>"I love being watched." She sighed the words as she passed between them, but it was a statement loud enough for them both to hear. In the same motion as her stride, she slipped her hand into each of theirs and grasped hold without missing a step, guiding them onto the ballroom floor. If either of them drew back she wouldn't stop or protest; after all, they were the ones who had offered so if they balked at her acceptance, that would be their own failing. <br><br>If they followed, Imogen would lead them onto the floor close to the center in little time at all - it was evident that she had no intent on letting the song go to waste. Silver-white hair poised in loose curls brushed her neck and shoulders as Imogen turned her head to pull the woman in crimson close; her hand slid slowly up the slick fabric and firm bodice of her dress as Imogen positioned her between herself and the man in white, both of the women facing him. Black; crimson; white. Her hand rested on the other woman's waist just below where the gentleman would rest his and the opposite hand slipped over the back of the other woman's to press both of theirs into his welcoming palm. <br><br>The Paso Doble was, by nature, a fight - bullfighting, specifically - and a fierce dance at a quick double-step; Imogen herself had learned it in France from the Spanish ambassador's son while on a visit there, and then danced it many times afterward with as many variations. Tonight, the wolf would be fending off two bulls, one black and one crimson, and the visual of it, she knew, would prove impressive. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Szandor</strong> on <strong>20-10-2017, 00:25:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Name:</strong> Chester William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom -&gt; Banquet<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Marieme, Elia, Open<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/45/3a/96/453a96300491beb4376bca4391987646.jpg)</div></div><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/c6/e4/17/c6e417f57bbfbad77352d6b90dfe3484--mads-mikkelsen-beautiful-men.jpg)</div><hr><br><br>“Ah, ma’am, I wish not to take up all of your time.” Chester said politely. He bowed his head, then cocked it as he watched a somewhat nervous young woman speak to them. The man straightened, tugged on the lapels of his vest, then nodded to the blond woman.<br><br>“Yes, it is.” He said. Chester plucked a champagne flute from the silver tray being passed around and took a long sip. “Though I’m not entirely sure of any ulterior motives here. I’ve yet to meet the host and hostess.”<br><br>Chester looked to the two women, then did a bow with one arm to the front and the other at his back. He smirked to Marieme, in particular. The man was on his own then, walking through the sea of people moving from the ballroom to the banquet hall, or simply closer to people they wished to dance with. Such was the way of people from finer walks of life; no one could simply approach the one that truly wanted to dance with. They had to simply <em>be there</em> until their special someone noticed them. It was confusing.<br><br>Chester walked into the banquet hall and gazed at the people already inside. He looked to his champagne flute, then took the last sip of it. Hm. He wondered if they had anything stronger here. The man, who made a living off of things like alcohol and sex, was hardly buzzed at all. He spotted a man with champagne flutes walking by, and stopped him.<br><br>“Excuse me.” He said. “Have the Lady and Lord of the party permitted any stronger drink? This is hardly stronger than water to myself, I’m afraid.” He said with a smirk.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Esmeralgirl</strong> on <strong>20-10-2017, 05:57:25</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft"> (https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ40nzdTwRD_5SMMgeHzjusJCf6mshR6ITkJaD-3WAbQi1iE2Brpw) </div> <br><strong> Name: </strong> Kore <br><strong> Location: </strong> Ballroom<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Dress</div><div class="spoiler_body"> <br>[img height =400]https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcStiMyqeF08Fiu_PFUxqYmTmQtr6Ws52eXfsaEGKEn7Xdn3LZou_A[/img] </div></div> <br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Imogen and William<br><hr> <br><br>They hold their gaze with no one moving their eyes' and it would've been a staring contest in which both of them were trying to enter the other's soul just with their stares if not for the man who came up behind her. Still she didn't looked behind to see the check the new arrival not until the Lady stood up after giving her a smirk and led them on to the dance floor. Her words made Kore smile and she was sure everyone will watch them just as she would like to be. <br><br>Soon they were standing in the middle of the ballroom and without wasting any time, Lady pulled her body to herself and Kore let it go pressing her back against the Lady's and her one hand move to the back of the man, fingers digging a little into his skirt and her other hand was hold in Union by two of her dancer partners, feeling the soft skin of hers and then his calloused and rough skin, a very big contrast. A little sigh escaped her lips at being sandwiched, a first for her in a dance of any kind. She was so up close to the lady and the man that she could feel their body heat, feel the little shower of her hot breath on her neck and her own breathing hitched up, making her lick her lower lip.<br><br>After they were adjusted she felt them move and she followed them even though there wasn't much need as her two partners were literally making her body dance like a puppet and she felt free, letting her body be taken over in the wild dance.. Her feet moved to left, right, a step forward and then left and then one step backwards and her body was flung forward to the left as they continue to dance in a passionate move of bodies on the dance floor. She could feel the eyes of everyone fixed on them, some envious of them and some praising the boldness of 3 strangers. <br>"A while back you looked like you had million things better to do and now you look like you could do million things to us." Kore said with a smirk to the Lady though she didn't turned her head back so as not to ruin the synchronized movement of their dance. <br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HoodedStranger</strong> on <strong>21-10-2017, 00:52:39</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/f2/80/4e/f2804e8fbb9839cb88e859f9d8e2741a--christian-grey-christian-bale.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Sebastian<br>Location: Ballroom -&gt; Banquet Hall<br>Tagging: Isobelle ---&gt; empty table<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Costume (on the right):</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c9/86/a6/c986a671b4bc7d37dcf0501f1e55fc28.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>He could tell from the way his partner moved, swaying against him, that she was skilled in the ways of feeling the rhythm and letting it run through her body. He could feel his own body responding pleasantly to her ministrations, a subtle itch that needed scratching. He chuckled, the sound muffled through his mask, as his partner pulled him from the dance floor to one of the corners of the floor. When she moved his mask to press her lips against his, she would find his lips parted in a teasing smile in a slightly tanned face with a faint stubble along his chin, just enough to tickle. He pushed his lips firmly back against hers, his hands running slowly up and down her body, sliding down to cup the delicious rounding of her hips, squeezing her ass as he swirled the wine in his mouth before swallowing, his hands running slowly back up her back to run through her hair as he ended the kiss.<br><br>"Parting is such sweet sorrow," He teased, his voice slightly breathless and rushed. "I hope you and your friend have a lovely evening and should the fates align, perhaps you and I shall find ourselves in good company again, mhmm?"<br><br>He watched the sway of her delicious hips and imagined just what he would love to do between them, the thoughts causing another bout of discomfort and pain in his groin area. "Mhmm, so many delicious gazelles. Whom should I play with next?" He raised a finger to where his lips lay beneath his mask, his eyes turning slowly as he watched the milling crowd, slowly joining and following them into the banquet hall. "So many to choose from."<br><br>He grabbed one of the empty plates and meandered around the various tables, scooping this and that on to his plate until he had a generous helping of nearly everything and retired to one of the nearby tables with his full plate. He soon found the goblet before him full to brim with wine and he tilted his mask forward to shove a mouthful of stew and quickly followed with a large swallow of the wine. He let the mask fall back and chewed, swirling the stew and wine together to create an intoxicating blend of taste and texture that he swallowed with a pleased groan. He dabbed at one corner of his mask where a small smear of the stew had strayed.<br><br>---<br><br>The words whispered like delirious visions of providence and good fortune in his mind. <em>She loves you, she doesn't know it yet. She just needs a sign, something that will cause her to remember you for all time and all ways.</em> The voices swirled slowly, intoxicating and delirious. He could smell the scent of the countess as she moaned beneath him, could feel her powerful thighs squeezing him as he released his seed deep within her. He knew whom she was and that she was the wife of a powerful man. It made it all the more delicious when she came crawling back to him, begging to be filled, to be fucked until she couldn't walk without a limp, until she moaned his name. His name! The sound echoed in his thoughts, over and over again, until all else sound faded to muted silence. He let his thumb rub gently over the surface of the hidden dagger of his sleeve. He had worked hard to earn entrance to this masquerade.<br><br><em>Fools</em>...the voices cackled....<em>she surrounds herself with false idols, false prophets. We must show her the true way.</em><br><br><em>Remove her inhibitions....</em><br><br>He smiled, the sight hidden behind the mask of the devil he wore, curved horns swirling down to each side of the red mask. The rest of his features were hidden beneath the voluminous robes of his costume as he slithered through the crowds as they switched rooms. He bumped a woman and lifted a finger to her lip, the light catching the glint of silver and she nodded, scurrying and disappearing in the crowd until he lost sight of her. He ignored it, focused so on his target was he. Closer, ever closer, he slithered. The target would be alone soon. He cackled in his mind, the voices joining in until there was a cacophony of sound. He had asked for a special potion for this night, a poison that would leave no trace, no source of its origin as it destroyed the very nerves of the throat and suffocated its victim. The doctor had promised a very painful, public death with no trace of its origins. He had paid the hefty ransom for the poison and had thoroughly coated the blade of the dagger in his sleeve, careful to keep it from pricking his own skin.<br><br>He waited until his target was facing away, conversing with another couple. He slithered closer, slipping the blade down to grip it firmly in between firm fingers before driving the blade gently up and into the man's side, twisting and dragging it to make sure he got a good dosing of the poison. "Tell the Countess I'll be waiting for her."<br><br>He cackled, loud enough for the Count to hear as the blade was withdrawn, covered in blood before it disappeared within his folds. He slithered through the crowd and disappeared within the castle, tossing the mask into the trash and removing his costume to reveal another beneath the robes and a more heinous mask. This one though, he mused, would be something none would expect. He ran the blade along the table before tossing it out an open window and then shutting one of the doors behind him as he descended and then climbed another pair of steps to look down upon his work.<br><br><em>You did well, my child...</em> The voices crowed, loving and serene.....<em>She cannot spurn you now!</em>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>21-10-2017, 01:58:35</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Banquet<br>Tagging: Isobelle<br><hr><br>Elia recognized the voice at once. She sighed happily, and reached up to stroke the forearms that hugged her. Her ear tingles, and the feeling raced down the side of her neck, down, down, down. She shifted in her chair to face Isobelle as soon as she sat down. A huge grin plastered the half of her face not covered by her mask. “The Count was like...dancing with him&nbsp; was like being taken to the Phantom of the Opera’s lair, or like...like one of those fantasy films were an alluring sorcerer right out of a storybook lures the heroine from some mundane suburban existence into a dark wonderland. Exquisite dancer, too, I could learn a thing or two. Hmm wonder if I’ll ever get another dance with him....”<br><br>The jeweled skull had nothing to say about that - it simply stared at her silence with the same rictus grin plastered over its features.&nbsp; <br><br>“And yes, the ‘White Wolf’ I literally bumped into….both of us could swear we had some deja vu. He, for my hair, and I....well, maybe for the beard, but more than that, I think it was his <em>voice</em>. Like I’d heard him give a commencement address, or a guest lecture at school, or someone on a speaking tour I saw. I do hope to find out later, one way or another...” <br><br>As she spoke, she played footsie with Isobelle. Helped along by champagne courage but ultimately due to innate affection, her left hand, furtively under the table, played a bit with the smoothness of the other woman’s skirt and the tone of the thigh beneath. And that thigh felt very nice indeed as far as Elia could tell. <br><br>Elia gestured animatedly with her champagne flute as she spoke, so lost in her words that she splashed her own bare shoulder with the last bit of champagne, before a liveried servant came by to relieve her of the empty flute. Elia simply went on, “...said hi to a few others on the way, the mysterious man in the dragon mask, and the lady in black whom I swear is wearing fangs. She’s so stylish and beautiful, and they seemed on their way to the banquet too, but I lost my nerve to ask directly about sitting them them. If I'd been cleverer I'd have asked if we might share a ...well, a bite.”<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chou chou rheastar</strong> on <strong>21-10-2017, 05:05:26</strong>
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				Name:&nbsp; Count Titus<br>Location: Banquet Hall near the corner.<br>Tagging: NA<br>Titus and Mina (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E_u21VRet_o/S-hMK0lYR3I/AAAAAAAAApU/iaWkszaUpds/s1600/JoanAllenPhoto_RedDress.jpg)<hr>Name:&nbsp; Countess Mina<br>Location: Banquet Hall near the corner.<br>Tagging: Open<br>Titus and Mina (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E_u21VRet_o/S-hMK0lYR3I/AAAAAAAAApU/iaWkszaUpds/s1600/JoanAllenPhoto_RedDress.jpg)<br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/e6/28/fc/e628fc54c2bd126af7edf8c4adac66c3.jpg)</div><hr><br>Titus had wandered his way around the ballroom floor after the announcement had been made for the banquet and made small talk. At moments he would look up and catch the form of his wife wandering around the room, seeing the eyes that followed after her red swathed figure hungrily. Titus always enjoyed seeing the way his wife made others react, it simply reinforced his own fascination and adoration for the dark haired woman. He had never been a jealous man and even though they had an very open relationship he was secure in the knowledge that she was married to him at the end of the day. Mina had her lovers that she had fun with but she always told him all about them and they shared everything with each other and once the dalliance was over she always returned to him and vice versa.<br><br>He had just looked up and met Mina's eyes when the poisoned blade slipped into his side and the sinister voice spoke in his ear. Titus gripped his side and groaned as the couple in front of him screamed and his wife's eyes widened and she ran over once he collapsed to his knees. Titus pulled his hand away from his side and saw it covered in blood, his eyes were going hazy and it was getting harder to breathe. Mina had fallen to her knees next to him as his body fell to lay on the ground and his head pillowed on her lap. Security was busy locking the castle down so that people couldn't leave and the sheriff had been called as well as paramedics but they were very far away from the castle and couldn't get close in time. Mina pressed her hands to Titus' side and leaned her face closer to his, her eyes were welled with tears but she did not let them fall. <br><br>"I'm sorry beloved," Titus whispered and lifted a hand to cup Mina's cheek, "you will be alright. I love you." Just like in a movie, with his last words, Titus' hand slipped from her cheek and his eyes closed as the poison and his wound took it's toll and he breathed his last breath.<br><br>Mina's fingers clenched in his clothing, her hands stained red with his blood, and a tear slid down her face below her mask. For a moment she knelt next to his body silently as the security ringed around her and started to move to pick Titus' body up after taking pictures to give to the police. She sniffed and stood to let them pick up Titus and move him out of the crowd, she accepted a cloth to clean her hands. Composing her face and wiping her tear gently she turned to see the small crowd which had gathered their fearful faces and growing concern made her frown for a moment. She would lose it later, right now she had a castle full of people and a murderer among them.<br><br>"I apologize for this everyone. The sheriff has asked that no one leave, so I hope you will continue to dance and enjoy the food and the castle but please be careful," Mina smiled and tilted her head, "who knows what's out there but security will be extra vigilant while you are here." Happy Halloween indeed.<br><br>Name:&nbsp; Hudson<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Auden, Isobelle, and Elia<br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/42/a3/5a/42a35abe713de6973b48c08310d19270--bearded-men-dont-care.jpg)</div> <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">costume</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/2b/d0/d6/2bd0d682c42f9eab7a107e3e2f0cc518.jpg)</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/16/ac/e5/16ace5367f9e9629bae9f9fd0da47828--raven-mask-mask-ideas.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>Hudson didn't care if his partner was male or female or identified as any other gender, he simply enjoyed company as he found it. If they were a horrible dancer and couldn't hold any sort of conversation then he would no doubt not enjoy himself but it seemed like this 'woman' was interesting at least. As he swept them out onto the dance floor he felt a slight struggle on his partner's part to find their rythm but it was soon corrected and they were dancing across the floor as the Paso Doble played. <br><br>"You are doing very well," Hudson rumbled with a smile behind his mask, broad hands settling themselves easily into the curve of their back and holding their hand in his. He didn't put much extra thought into anything else as they danced, catching the triple dance going on out of the corner of his eye and turning his head to look for just a moment before looking back at his partner. "I am sure as you keep dancing it will all come easier, have you been to a ball like this before?" The song was slowly coming to an end and the Countess was standing up at the dais once more when the song finished, Hudson twirled the fairy in his arms and then bowed at the end of their song. He took their hand and kissed it softly with a smile before stepping back and away, "I hope you enjoyed our dance, maybe you will save another for me later." <br><br>As he heard the Countess mention food Hudson grinned wider and headed to the banquet hall, as he stepped into the hall he heard someone scream and saw a group huddled towards the back. He frowned mightily as they were told what happened, knowing the people in the ballroom couldn't hear what happened as the music was playing once more. Hudson wondered what would happen now that a murderer was loose in the room. He caught a glimpse of the leonine woman he had danced with before sitting with a beautiful pixie dressed in white and headed over to their table. "Might I sit with you ladies? Are you doing alright?"<br><hr><br>Meanwhile the orchestra played on in the ballroom, the people still dancing unable to hear the commotion in the banquet hall. The perceptive might notice the increase of security at the edges but other than that no announcement was made in the ballroom of what had happened. And the song changed again . . .<br><br>https://youtu.be/QBXBcVJ7ARA
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Szandor</strong> on <strong>21-10-2017, 05:39:32</strong>
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				<strong>Name:</strong> Chester William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Banquet Hall<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Marieme, Open<br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/236x/c6/e4/17/c6e417f57bbfbad77352d6b90dfe3484--mads-mikkelsen-beautiful-men.jpg)</div><hr><br>Chester thought it all too quick for a murder. At first, when he was being given his whiskey by the lovely waiter, Chester had merely glanced over as what he assumed was one of the guests falling down in a drunken stupor. But it wasn't. It was the Count. He was gasping for air, there was blood coming from his body, but the Countess... Chester couldn't place it but there was something off about the situation. The waiter had scurried off when Chester opened his mouth to make a comment, so the man simply hummed and stood watch.<br><br>Mysterious indeed. Chester had seen far worse things happen in his lifetime, so the murder of a Count in a crowded room didn't make him want to faint. Rather, it made him want to be a fly on the wall. He wished he were smaller, some sort of insect or particle of air so he could get close and listen to what people were saying. The killer had to be here somewhere, and since Chester knew he didn't do it himself but was unsure of everyone else that made the entire crowd a suspect.<br><br>But Chester was no Detective. He leaned against the far wall and narrowed his eyes as the Countess spoke. She seemed distant from the body of her husband, not quite cold but not quite the visage of a woman who had just lost her beloved. Was he really her beloved? Chester huffed through his nose, and downed the entire Whiskey. Evidently, he'd need it. <br><br>It was a good thing he didn't need to be anywhere. <br><br>Chester wondered idly if he should take off his mask. It seemed cruel to hide his identity now that there was a murder. He stepped a little closer to the scene, and tilted his head as the body was carried off and Countess Mina finished her address to the guests. He hummed to himself, then looked around the room. Then he thought of her. Marieme. Chester swallowed thickly. Sure, he didn't harbor any strong emotions for her, but he certainly cared more for her safety than any other at this party.<br><br>The man huffed, then set down his glass and scanned the crowd. The news was trickling through the guests. Chester assumed it would be a chaos of 'whodunit' and hearsay soon. He spotter Marieme, and made a beeline to her. He adjusted the dragon mask on his face, and politely put a hand on her shoulder. "My lady." He said. "I have a distinct feeling that we will need to stick together after all."
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>21-10-2017, 09:43:25</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/s640x640/sh0.08/e35/11917865_1484291961887317_2019264209_n.jpg)</div><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/7b/8e/74/7b8e745e098bc61ef6f36ae32e84f650--anubis-mask-the-mask.jpg)</div>Name: Markus<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Claudine -&gt; Mina<br><hr><br>Markus Jerome Cade's Father was a Major in the United States Air Force. While on assignment as part of a military intelligence gathering mission in the Egyptian Region, he stumbled across the most ravishingly beautiful woman he had ever seen. Markus's Mother had been assigned to his Father's unit as an interpreter and experienced what must have been Love, at first sight. The lovely Girl from Cario allowed herself to be swept off her feet by the handsome country boy from North Carolina. The romance was brief and heavenly intense and as the deployment came to its end Cade's Father made a promise that he would come back for her and make her his Wife. It took six months for that promise to become a reality. M.J.C.'s parents maintained a long distance relationship in which there was never twenty-four hours that hadn't past without them communicating with each other. When the Airforce Major returned he did so with the necessary Visa and Paperwork to fulfill his long-ago promise and together they made new vow's as husband and wife. It has been suggested that Markus was conceived on that very night...<br><br>For most of the young Boxer's earlier existence, he was an extremely blessed and happy child. To his Mother, he was her lion cub and could do no wrong, spoiled to no end and smothered in love. Markus was the spitting image of his father and that seemed to bring his Mom no end of joy due to his Dad's occupation that carried him off to God knows where as military tension heated up in the middle east. The Son of a dark-skinned Egyptian Woman and a Black Man came to idolized his sometimes absent Father as a larger than life figure who went off to save the world. Every homecoming was like Christmas as Mother and Son greeted their returning Hero and made the best of their time together creating lasting family memories that M.J.C. still cherish till this day. It was all how it was supposed to be... then it was not and the Boy who would one day become the Lightweight Heavyweight Champion found that spark of rage and fire that would forever shape his life. <br><br>Markus still remembered the day those men came to the house to explain to his Mother and his Father's family that it was a simple "training" mission that had gone horribly wrong. The Young Boxer remembered vividly how his Mom collapsed right then and there in a complete and utter fit of heartbreak and despair. How within a year she had weakened in both body and spirit till she became deathly ill and died. Cade remembered trying to comfort his Mom but being pushed away, unable to understand at that age of how being the spitting image of his Father was a torment to the woman who had lost the only man she knew she could ever love. Confusion and rejection turned into deep-rooted anger which only erupted into a rage after M.J.C.'s mother passed away less than a year after his father. Markus Grandmother had once said, "That poor child died the moment they told her your daddy wasn't coming home... her body just took it's time to catch up."<br><br>Nana Stone, Markus's Grandmother on his Father's side had stepped in to raise the now out of control orphan and she did so with the attitude and efficiency of a military drill sergeant. Seeing that Cade needed an upbringing that was based on strict and unwavering discipline to counter the pain that was eating at him; Nana Stone, a name Markus started calling her due to the Elder's rough and no-nonsense parenting, was more than up to the challenge. Under her watchful eye and swift use of a "switch", the Mother of his Father kept the wayward teen from self-destructing. It was Nana Stone's wisdom that got Markus into boxing, as the Grandmother was becoming annoyed at having to go to school to justify another physical altercation that her Grandson had gotten himself into. "That boy is so angry at the world that all he knows is that he has to hit something to try to feel better." Nana Stone had said to the school counselor. "...and look at him, sitting there with those two black eyes and a busted lip, looking like a damn beat up raccoon. He's not even good at fighting!" <br><br>It was Nana Stone who marched Markus little butt into that Gym and pushed him into the arms of his lifelong trainer. "Do something with him, before I lose my mind and bury him out back!" Grandma had said before turning around and leaving him standing there completely alone with this large and imposing man that would teach Markus so much. The Trainer, known as Papa Delgado raised his hand, palm out, and said, "Okay Kid, hit this and let's see what you got." <br><br>Yes, Nana Stone had raised Markus Jerome Cade right. Had taught him, through harsh lessons, to be the man that he was. One lesson that he had always taken to heart was that when you eat around other people you don't come to the table looking like a fool... though at a Masquerade Ball that could be unavoidable. Still as Nana use to say, "Don't come to my table dirty. When you sit for dinner at my house you will come washed up, cleaned up and dressed up or you don't come at all!"<br><br>After two dances, one with the lovely Countess and the other with the mysterious and sultry Woman wearing a domino mask, Markus Cade had broken a sweat. So as he pulled out his cell phone and text something. The Anibus Warrior turned to his gorgeous new companion and said, "Yeah eating in this getup is going to be a challenge, but so was getting you to dance with me. Maybe I'll go two for two." and as Cade looked over the unknown and beautiful masked Claudine and appreciate his good fortune at having her on his arm for dinner, he added, "Or three for three depending on how the night turns out."<br><br>When M.J.C. phone chimed a text message back he asked his dance partner, "I need to make a stop at the men's room before heading in to eat. Could you give me a moment? I promise I'll be quick." Once Markus had received an acknowledgment he turned and made his way to the bathroom that was close to the main entrance. As he approached the lavatory he spied one of the castle's servants waiting for him and holding a familiar package. "Your man left this in our care for you. Please understand we couldn't let him in."<br><br>"I understand and thank you," Cade said as he took the offered goods and disappeared into the restroom. Moments later the Anibus Warrior came out looking a bit different. Gone was the open-chested white top which was replaced with a black sleeveless robe adorn with Egyptian style beads and necklaces. M.J.C. had also added the matching cloth covering for the mask that completely encased his entire head in a blue and gold shroud. This was not going to make eating easier, but it should make an impact and that was what Nana Stone had taught him. Dinner with others was about making good impressions and honoring those who have agreed to sit with you to enjoy a meal. <br><br>Washed up, cleaned up and now dressed up. Markus's eyes scanned for the woman he was to escort into the Banquet Hall and found her, but before he could take that first step a scream alerted him to a surreal scene that one had to wonder if it was all part of the festivities. The Countess was kneeling beside the Count now lying on the floor and as M.J.C. walked up and joined the onlookers he quickly realized this wasn't something stage but an actual assault on one of the Hosts of the castle. The floor was now covered in deep crimson as the Counts lifeblood emptied from a knife wound in his side. The young Fighter now wishing to act, to do something could only watch as the Woman he had so recently danced with suffered thru hearing her beloved's final words. <br><br>After taking a moment to wrangle in her obvious grief and distress, She rose and addressed the gathering around her and her now late husband. Assuring them that everything was in hand and that they were to continue to try to what... enjoy themselves; as security now try to manage a possible murder scene and the fact that someone in this very castle was a cold-blooded killer. Part of Markus's mind screamed to go find the brown hair, burgundy dressed Woman he had just Samba with and make sure she was okay but the other half commanded him to stay in place and check on the Countess. As soon as an opening presented itself he moved up behind the Raven Haired Noble and reached for her hesitantly. <br><br>"My God... Countess! Are you..." Markus began to say, but as Countess Mina turned to Him and Her gazed fixed on the eyes of the young Boxer thru his Anibus mask, a silent command was issued that had the power and authority to stop him dead, no matter if he was the actual Egyptian Deity. Turning back around, the Royal continued to issue commands to her staff and guards as they started to form a perimeter to preserve the crime scene and to guide the Castle Guests to less dramatic areas. Once order had wrestled chaos to the ground and Mina seemed confident everything that could be done was being done she turned back to Markus, taking his hand and leading him off to somewhere a bit more private. <br><br>"I'm Sorry, I shouldn't have tried to..." Again M.J.C. started but the smaller woman just simply reached up pulling the Anibus mask up far enough for her to expose Man's lips. The Countess leaned up and softly kissed them as if she was taking a measure of comfort from the intimate exchange. A single tear rolled down Mina's face and landed on Markus just at the corner of his mouth. It tasted salty and bitter and filled with unimaginable loss that instantly took the Young Man back to the year his mother and father had died and an old forgotten pain caught in Cade throat. <br><br>Markus couldn't remember how long that moment lasted but it felt like forever in a second. Then the Countess broke off the kiss and composed herself, placed her hand on the chest of the Boxer over his heart, fingers still tinted red from her husband blood and smiled before turning and walking away in pursuit of her duties to her now terrified guest. <br><br>M.J.C. watched her go somehow feeling that the Countess had gotten what she needed from him and now had to carry on alone for the moment. Markus wanted to stay right where he was or find a way to get out of this place but thoughts turned to the woman he had asked to escort to dinner and the fact that a killer was out there. He suspects that his last dance partner was more than capable of taking care of herself but there was always strength in numbers and if he had to go down fighting she was on a very short list of people he would trust to have his back... after all she couldn't be the killer she was dancing with him when the murder went down, right!?<br><br>Turning to catch a glimpse of Claudine, Cade started to look for her in earnest...
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eikichi</strong> on <strong>22-10-2017, 10:17:55</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/ac/Eikichi_Characters_44.png)</div>Name: Stephen<br>Location: Ballroom -&gt; Banquet Hall<br>Tagging: None - Open<br>Mentioning: Many.<br><hr><strong><em>That dreadful sound of monotony.</em></strong><br><br>Even after the shift of the song Stephen remained in the background. He decided, aptly, that he had no interest in dancing lest one of his retainers recognized the familiar apparel and tracked him down. Whether it was the various levels of scolding or the fact that the night would be cut short Lord Becket was adamant on remaining in the shadows. It was probably for the best considering he really did have two left feet and no sense of rhythm. One of the main reasons this would be the part of the evening that he’d happily avoid. He planned to spend most of the evening exploring the castle and getting to know some of its occupants since it seemed likely the young Lord would be spending quite a bit of time here rather than in the country. Yet instead of being able to freely explore, to his heart’s content, it seemed the hosts were keeping them confined to various portions of the room. He couldn’t blame them with the crowd as large as it was it was probably better to keep people from getting lost or into some kind of trouble. The problem was Stephen wanted to simply explore and get into whatever mischief might be instore.<br><br>For now the only choice he had was to take it slow and see what else the hosts and the party would have to offer him. He walked through the crowd, around the ballroom, shuffling past people while keeping his gaze on the various dancers who’d taken to the center. If there was nothing else for him to do he’d at least take his time to go over the various guests and see if there was anyone of interest who might peak his attention. There was only a handful that’d ended up catching his attention; ranging from the Egyptian masked male and his dancing partner or from the countess who’d taken to dancing with someone other than the count. He let his gaze wander over the dancing couple as a brief distraction from how pent up the ball was currently making him. While he watched he continued to stalk his way through the crowd, casting occasional glances towards the ballroom entrance. He noticed two of the latest guests to arrive both of which were sporting unique masks, though judging by the masks everyone was wearing perhaps the most unique thing about them was how little they stood out compared to everyone else. But then again one couldn’t have guessed the strange masks the guests would drag in with them. Yet still, something kept his attention on the woman; the lady with the mask shaped like a bat and finally the woman whose mask left two large horns extended out.<br><br>Before he could start to ponder about the ladies, they were swept up with the rest in taking to the center. Not that it was something poor to be swept up in; the dance was a large apart of this event after-all. If he’d had more interest in it he might have joined the maiden from before. However, it wasn’t them being swept up that stopped his pondering mind. The sound of a bell and the Count and Countess taking stage at the bottom of the stairs is what preoccupied his attention. There announcement might have been a saving grace to him, if it wasn’t for the fact that they were simply trading one brightly lit cage for another. Well, at least the new one provided some refreshments. Besides while Stephen might like to watch the lovely ladies who were strolling the center of the ballroom the setting had started to become a bit of a bore, so it was at-least somewhat better for his attention and action seeking personality to wander around the new setting. So once the Count and Countess made their way back into the crowd he began making his way past the crowd and instead headed into the banquet hall.<br><br>As much as he might have been stirred at the prospect of a new surrounding he still took his time. Whether it was the dancing ladies which enchanted his gaze, and attention, for long forgotten minutes at a time or if it was the lure of stalking those that had caught his eye it caused him to delay his entrance to the banquet hall. There were of course various things about the ladies that caught his attention in particular but those vulgar thoughts had to be dismissed so he could turn his attention toward the adventure that was before him.<br><br>So when Lord Becket finally did enter into the Banquet Hall the first thing he did was gaze over the surroundings. It seemed a few people had already taken their seats and begun eating. So Becket made his way over to the large banquet table which had all the food sprawled across on display and for ease of access. He took one of the empty plates and bowl, filling up the bowl with soup while picking out a few choice cuts of beef and lettuce for the plate. He brought the plates over to a vacant table. He set down the food before casting his glance to the empty seat in front of him and couldn’t hold back the visible twitch of her lower lip. If someone did decide to sit with him, or beside him it meant he would more than likely need to keep his mask on during the meal. That in itself wasn’t a terrible problem for him. The mask he’d chosen did obstruct some of his vision but the curved shape of the beak did not impair him from eating. So he could just keep the mask on while eating and not have to worry about any watchful interlopers. While it certainly wasn’t ideal there was little else he could do if he wanted his privacy kept.<br><br>--- --- ---<br><br>While Lord Becket was setting his food down and taking his seat, he did not notice the commotion which had begun in the corner of the room. He heard the faint mutters and shouts, along with the bulk of people now muttering amongst themselves. But since it wasn’t entirely within his interest he remained oblivious to the fact that one of the hosts had been murdered. That obliviousness would be short lived; where It was the murmuring of the other guests, someone that loved to pry and gossip, or his own interest in as to why security had gathered in the corner it certainly wouldn’t be long till he was either told, herd, or sought out what was causing such an eerie commotion. But for the moment he was less concerned with what had people preoccupied in the corner and was more interested in the slab of meat that was resting on his plate and the stew that was getting colder by the second.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mimetisme</strong> on <strong>22-10-2017, 18:19:45</strong>
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				<br><div class="floatleft">(https://78.media.tumblr.com/340353926d30224378a32e525b272a78/tumblr_oxxz9cXbTS1vxwaceo1_250.gif) </div><strong> Name: </strong> Claudine<br><strong> Location: </strong> Banquet Hall<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Attire</div><div class="spoiler_body"> (https://78.media.tumblr.com/3878bda0143cedb7662109ca4f9ef34a/tumblr_oxtstwsgJu1vxwaceo1_400.gif)</div></div><br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Marcus/Open<br><strong>Mentioning: </strong> Marcus, Sebastion, Stephen<br><hr><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><em><strong>I</strong></em></span>t most certainly would be quite the lie should Claudine say no if one of the other guests asked if her eyes followed the false Egyptian Deity once he stepped away from her. Now where arctic winds blew, frosting all things in the gleaming shine of diamond ice, the side of her that was Shade, could as much as would give a dry laugh of disdain. No doubt also exhaling forth a follow up of some derogatory remark concerning how the choice of stock here was disappointing. The truth was, far behind the gleam of those now warm olive colored eyes, she indeed watched him fade from her sight with mixed curiosity and emotion. Both of which being slightly guarded. There also was a dim reflection of an admirer's stroke of brush in the molded paint that formed lips into a small smile.<br><br>The way he had approached her, it had been different than she was used to. Most other's devoted hollow respect, their fleshy faces carved more deceptive than the masks worn here tonight. No, the man wore the Anibus Warrior mask but, unless she was to be found wrong, the mask did not wear him. A divine rarity that was sincerely refreshing. To chase that thought in following was the intimacy they had shared on the dance floor. It had all the fury and passion that could be found fogging the mirror in a lover's bedroom. Even when all movement ceased, breaths held captive while they were both tangled in a shared lock of gaze, blood still roared. Claudine certainly felt the pulse between her thighs, silently aware more than the roots to her head of darkly roasted chestnut brown had become lightly sodden. Far from love at first dance but, a certain volume of lust certainly had been added to her hand of cards in spades. Those being tucked under her gown, between flesh and corset, branding her, temporarily so.<br><br>A new thought bloomed then. One that saw her no longer waiting, steps were taken in gliding stride with taunting feline sway of her hips brought her towards and into the banquet hall. Intended to keep her word, wanted to even. Sitting, idly chatting while eating. It would prove interesting to see him manage to eat without removing his mask for certain. Just the same, sometimes a hunt and chase could be, <em>inspiring</em>. Sure, it was a touch mean but it was not like everyone was identical in costume. How hard could it be for him to find her? <br><br>What she found, what she saw, was peculiar. The fancy Skeleton masked male she had noticed earlier with the Countess and Count was now without company, seemingly enjoying his meal, alone. Another she had glanced briefly on earlier, the male wearing the raven mask, was also sitting alone. Well, if they wanted company, they surely would have it. So she chose not to let her sight linger too long on either figure. It was rude to stare at someone while they were electively eating privately.<br><br>Which brought her attention floating to where there was a small cluster of bodies in the corner of the room. Those who carried the mantle of security was rather obvious. Easily could hazard the guess that was the cause of tension in the air. The longer she looked, the more she saw, growing to know even less. Quite possibly might had remained statue still in starring had someone not accidentally bumped her. It served to break the spell that attempted to seize control of her and brought a mumbled apology from her lips. Giving a light shake of her head, she figured better not to worry about the questionable happenings. So she took pace towards where a spread of food was displayed in a spread, set on fixing herself a small dish of something to eat. Though every so often, her gaze flickered in looking curiously at the Skeleton and Raven masked gentlemen. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MsMonster</strong> on <strong>23-10-2017, 05:51:36</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://i65.tinypic.com/209kemw.jpg)<br></div>Name:&nbsp; Marieme<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging:&nbsp; Open, Chester, Elia, Countess Mina, the Red Devil<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(http://i63.tinypic.com/qs4mrt.jpg)</div></div><br><hr><br><br>Marieme couldn’t help but smirk at the lovely young woman disguised as a fairy this evening. It was a rather amusing slip of the tongue, after all and she couldn’t seem to help herself from chuckling softly as the glittering creature nervously carried on.<em> “Fang? Fun? Same thing,right?"</em> She quipped with a wink, raising her new glass of champagne to her lips. She swore she even saw the hint of a blush as the fairy disappeared into the crowd, muttering about food.<em> “Charming girl…”</em> she said to no one in particular. <em>“I will have to find that one again later on. Perhaps we can share a dance or two.”</em><br><br>The Blue Dragon, still in her company, then bid a gracious farewell with a bow and a smirk of his own that could not be mistaken as he turned to leave. Her eyes followed him through the crowd for a brief moment before she made her way into the banquet hall. There was some fascination surrounding the mysterious gentleman with whom she had shared her first dance of the evening. Something told her that their paths were bound to cross again before the night was through. Whether it would be to glide across the dance floor once more together or indulging in a different manner of dance all together was a question that would have to wait for its answer.<br><br>The banquet hall was glorious! Warmly lit and filled with the intoxicating scent of well prepared and exotic foods, the room was luxury itself. Marieme sparsely filled a small plate and took a seat at an empty table on the edge of the room, almost obscured in shadow. Here she could watch the other guests in relative seclusion, a guilty pleasure of her’s, to be sure. She had always loved to watch others unbeknownst to them; their behaviour, how they moved and the things they did when they didn’t realise they were under her watchful gaze was all just so incredibly fascinating. <br><br>It was here in her place in the shadows that she saw it all happen. She saw her hosts for the evening; the lovely Countess Mina, mingling about and charming her way into the hearts of all present, wrapped in her beautiful crimson gown. Her charming husband, Titus, speaking with the guests.. It was the mask that caught her attention so intensely, her blood running cold as she noticed a Red Devil had appeared behind the Count, seemingly out of nowhere. The ominous, dark figure remained only for the briefest moment and then vanished again just as quickly and without a trace. Her pale eyes scanned the room for any sign that she had not just imagined the inexplicably terrifying costume. It was only a Halloween party, after all, but the air around him carried him in such a sinister light she could not quite brush off. Her sudden uneasiness grew to alarm as the corner of her eye caught the motion of Titus falling to the floor and a scream reached her ears. She was paralysed in her seat as she watched Mina collapse beside her husband and the flurry of guards swarm the scene. Her senses quickly returning to her, she rose and tried to make her way through the people who had gathered tightly around.<em> “Excuse me, please. I’m a doctor. I can help…”</em> Her soft voice seemed to be lost in the clamour surrounding the incident. She could hear the guests commenting. Someone mentioning the blood on the floor… another worrying about the scandal sure to come of this… guesses of who could be responsible… and then <em>“... he’s already dead.”</em> Marieme finally pushed her way through ready to offer her assistance, when she saw the body being taken away, a tearful Mina following closely after bidding them all to enjoy the rest of the evening. It struck her as odd as she watched their exit.<br><br>It was at that moment, when the Blue Dragon appeared, once again, by her side. She could scarcely disagree that perhaps it was better to stick together. This evening had very suddenly become something far more sinister than she had ever expected. She turned to the gentleman who had obviously been concerned for her welfare<em> “Did you see the Devil? He was just here. I think he’s the one….”</em> She trailed off, stopping herself before finishing her thought. Anyone could have worn that mask and changed… anyone could have murdered him.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vlexia</strong> on <strong>23-10-2017, 20:49:57</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a9/e0/ca/a9e0cad0f1fe82aadad6f95ed69dc14d.jpg)</div> <strong>Name:</strong> Isobelle<br><strong>Location: </strong>Banquet Hall<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Gown</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/UT8dpECXPdaXXagOFbXx.jpg_640x10000.jpg)<br></div></div><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Elia &amp; Hudson<br><strong>Mentioning:</strong> Mina &amp; Markus<br><div class="floatright">(https://sites.create-cdn.net/siteimages/5/0/3/50308/93/2/8/9328459/747x1000.jpg?1416057531)</div><hr><br>Angel's flirtatious manner furthered Isobelle's positive mood for the evening: good music, handsome fellowship, fantastic champagne and delicious food, it was all just so perfect.<br><br>Until it wasn't.<br><br>She had just plucked off a grape from a stem on her plate and sensually placed it between her front teeth, her golden eyes on the snow Angel before her as her thigh grew gooseflesh and her spine shivered under her ministrations under the table when a scream had been heard. So many people gathered around a specific spot in the Hall, murmurs, gasps, and instructions could be heard but the fright in the room only grew as confusion gave way to panic. Murder. No it could not be, Isobelle wondered if this was an act, a show to be put on as a way to scare their guests, a realistic practical joke that would end in a round of applause at the acting and the effects of blood and tears. But her hope soon dissolved and her heart raced in genuine fear, her hand grasping onto Elia's right shoulder very tightly as she stood up, color escaping from her face, her breaths coming out in puffs as she looked around frantically for an exit but seeing guards stationed.<br><br>"We are trapped." She stated, her voice husky and hoarse as she gazed around before letting out a loud scream of her own, her palm shaking before her quivering lips as the crowd softly parted for her eyes to finally settle on the body of the Count laying in the ground, a pool of blood so dark it looked black against the floor still glowing across the tiles. The Countess was maintaining her calm demeanor of regal class, and the Anubis Warrior stood near her in comfort, but it changed nothing. The body was carried out and Mina announced for people to be careful as they continued in the planned festivities...<em>fuck that!</em> Isobelle wanted to get the hell out of there.<br><br>Just then her Viking from earlier appeared and asked if he could sit with them as well as if they were alright. Isobelle collapsed next to Angel once more at the table, mouth agape as she stared at her plate of food. She had lost all appetite and what little she -did- eat now turned to dust in her belly. The room spun and she felt sick as she rested an elbow on the table and supported her forehead against her knuckles shaking her head softly and closing her eyes.<br><br>"Does it look like we are alright?" She asked with a degree of panic in her voice. Isobelle was quite loud and attracted some head turns from nearby tables. She looked at them as if to challenge them to say something to her before turning to Hudson with an incredulous expression on her face through the holes of her mask. Her hand gripped Elisa's as she spoke. "We need to get out of here. There is a murderer in this house locked inside with us...who is to say we are not next?" 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>23-10-2017, 21:21:19</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Banquet<br>Tagging: Isobelle, Hudson<br><hr><br>Just when the champagne was flowing down through the lightweight Elia to all the right places, blending with Isobelle’s touch to create the perfect concoction of hormones in her blood...Elia belatedy started to pick up on the commotion in the crowd nearby. Her mask turned when Isobelle’s did, and she followed the other woman’s gaze, and stood up to get a better view. It dawned on Elia, and she threw her mouth open as if to let out a scream like Isobelle - but her throat went dry instead, sound choked off. Elia was like the proverbial deer in the headlights for a moment. <br><br>Then a whimpering…”.....Eep! Omigod omigod omigod...” trickled out. “This is like...some sort of murder mystery guessing game entertainment thingie right haha, hahah, ha...ha...ha….” Elia thought she spied paramedics and-or law enforcement, and the body being carried...yep, the Count.<br><br><em>Was I the last one to dance with him? Ohhhh….uhoh….</em><br><br>She looked around to make note of the curiously familiar White Wolf. She had bumped into him at the end of a dance with the count, and segued into the White Wolf’s arms. If she needed an abili, to confirm that she was departed from the Count’s company while he was still just fine, that White Wolf would prove more of a lumberjack to her Red Riding Hood. <br><br>Her fingers went white knuckled - well, whiter knuckled - as she squeezed Bella’s hand. Also a potential key to her ability...and more immediately, she felt much much safer in company, with her, and the Norse god who’d greeted them.<br><br>“Please! Sit with us!” Elia squeaked. “I feel like some murderer’s less likely to mess with us with you here! My lord - err, Sir? - Thor - don’t suppose you brought like a big axe or hammer or something to keep any culprits at bay? Ha..ha...” Elia laughed nervously. She also thought she remembered noticing him and Isobelle getting along nicely in a dance earlier, which could only be all to the good now. <br><br>Elia had a terrible thought - what if the champagne had been poisoned? Or the sweets? She told herself, surely lots of other people would've dropped by now if it were that. <em>All the same...maybe it's time to let the ol' bulimia come back up...so to speak...</em><br><br>She told Isobelle, “I’m game to try to get out, yeah...it’s worth a try, go around and try some doors and windows or something, and even if we can’t get out-out, maybe try to find some mre secluded room we can lock ourselves in for a little while, or at least not have anyone else at our backs, while this blows over…”<br><br>Elia noticed she’d put her back to the table. She was starting to become paranoid at the thought of any masked mystery persons creeping up anonymously behind her. Still squeezing Isobelle’s hand, she unconsciously put her other hand on the reassuringly strong-looking. and apparently strong-feeling too, ‘Thor’, like some sort of silly damsel in distress cowering behind a knight of old.<br><br>She started looking around, thinking about her own suggestion for finding somewhere secure to get to, or some means of egress. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>24-10-2017, 05:11:07</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/s640x640/sh0.08/e35/11917865_1484291961887317_2019264209_n.jpg)</div><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/7b/8e/74/7b8e745e098bc61ef6f36ae32e84f650--anubis-mask-the-mask.jpg)</div>Name: Markus<br>Location: Banquet Hall<br>Tagging: Claudine <br>Mentioning: Marieme, Elia, Hudson, Isobelle<br><hr><br>Markus moved with purpose and a high level of apprehension. What had once been a colorful ballroom full of costume guests now took on the eerie feel of a carnival of horrors. Masks that once seemed harmless when first gazed upon held an all-new element of sinister intent. The Devils, Bats, and Half Skulls loomed far too close for M.J.C.'s comfort; causing him to flinch and shuffle about, reacting to any sudden movement with his hands up ready for a fight. When the Lightweight Champion almost overreacted to the stumblings of a drunken gentleman wearing a medieval gargoyle mask, Cade suddenly realized he had to get a grip. <br><br>The Man had misstepped and reached out for the Boxer to steady himself, grabbing onto the Anibus Warrior drunkenly. Within seconds the Fighter had slapped Man's mask off and was following up with a left hook that would have probably dislocated something before realizing that the hapless fool was just wasted on to much wine or champagne. "Oh man, it was about to be a bad night for you... maybe you should take it easy on the refreshments. Let's go with Water. Say it with me ...WATER."<br><br>"W..wa..aater...He.Hey you know you look like a... big black dog!" <br><br>"If I did knock your ass out, would anyone even care?" M.J.C. remarked under his breath.<br><br>"W.What?" <br><br>"Nothing. Here is your mask..." The Jackal Masked Fighter leaned down and retrieved the gargoyle styled mask and put it back on the head of the drunkard. "Do me a favor, there's a killer on the loose. Go stumble into him." Markus pushed the inebriated Gentleman along and headed straight for the banquet hall all the while doing deep breathing exercises to calm his ass down. <br><br>Everything seemed to be moving way to fast. Shortly after M.J.C. had left Mina's side a woman in a blue dress and stylized bat mask had announced herself a physician. Maybe there was still hope the Count could be resuscitated...maybe, but Markus had a feeling that wasn't going to happen. No fairy book ending to this story, cause the shit just got real. There was another Woman who seemed to have gotten that same memo. The exotic Sister with the silver half mask who was now getting loud with it. She was in the company of the lithe Woman in white and a freaking nordic Fellow who looks like he didn't arrive in a car but on a chariot straight out of Valhalla.<br><br>"Does it look like we are alright?" The caramel skinned Beauty cried out probably louder than she should. It was obvious that tensions were starting to rise and this Ball was going to get real exciting very soon. "We need to get out of here. There is a murderer in this house locked inside with us...who is to say we are not next?"<br><br>Markus started to head towards the group, ready to throw his lot in with anyone thinking about escaping this castle but then he caught a glimpse of someone familiar preparing herself a plate of food. The Boxer didn't think she had heard about what just happened and figured telling her was a priority and diverted in Her direction before trying to engage the others. <br><br>Markus stepped up next to Claudine and looked around conspiratorially before leaning in close and whispering. "The Count is fucking Dead. This isn't a joke, I'm not making this up. I just watched the Man bleed out in the ballroom. He was assassinated right in front of the Countess. The Castle is on fucking locked down and the killer is fucking still in here with us and no one knows who the fuck it is..." The Anibus Warrior paused and took a long deep breath. Somehow just telling someone seemed to take the edge off... no, not just telling someone, telling Her seemed to take the edge off and M.J.C. didn't have clue yet as to why. The Boxer finally ended with "... oh are those meatballs?" because well damn it, who doesn't enjoy a good meatball.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ArtemisHighmore</strong> on <strong>25-10-2017, 04:13:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://www.duchamplondon.com/duchamp_blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/aiden-shaw-6.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Open, Imogen, Kore<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Outfit</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b7/26/e5/b726e50a805a2b3dc61a60b5b5d5ff2e--aiden-shaw-summer-campaign.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>In truth William had been expecting a polite, but firm refusal to his offer. For one, the lovely lady in scarlet seemed to have eyes for the demoness that had also caught his eyes. Not to mention that few seemed familiar or even comfortable with the thought of a trio form of dance. He was quite surprised and more than a little pleased that it was the horned woman that took the lead, guiding them swiftly towards a clearing on the floor that would allow them the proper posturing. <br><br>Settling into position with the two lovely women before them, his eyes flickered behind his mask, shifting between them two and he had to suppress a smile when he noted the way the scarlet woman caught in the middle continued to seem quite focused on the other woman. He really should come up with names for these two; it just seemed too silly to refer to them in such terms in his head, but then again was that not the point of a masquerade ball? All the mystery and intrigue of not really knowing who you were dancing and perhaps seducing. <br><br>Taking the lead, he held the form with the two for the first cadence before he offered a playful grin. He was also familiar with the bullfighting origins of the dance and was happy to pick up the pace, parting each lady, leading one in each arm through a series of twists and turns, whirling them about like a matador might do with a cape, one in deep red, the other an alluring, flowing black. To his delight both seemed equally up to the task, and he might even go so far as to feeling like the horned beauty on his right was testing him step by step, really trying his mettle it seemed. He made a mental note to perhaps ask her history with the dance when he got the opportunity. <br><br>With on last twirl for the viewing pleasure of those who might have stopped to observe them, he offered a deep bow and a kiss to each of their hands. “Thank you kindly for the exhilarating outing. I do hope that I proved sufficient in the task.”<br><br>His smile lessened as he heard a curious commotion from the banquet hall, his left brow arching slightly though it was hidden behind his mask. The orchestra seemed unaware, dipping into their next song but William was drawn by what seemed to be a flurry of activity, people coming and going from the hall. Stepping to the side of the door, he peeked through in time to see the Count’s body being lifted on a stretcher. Well that seemed quite odd and out of place. For all he knew that man was a bastion of health and fitness, at least from what little he had heard. Observing what seemed to be a whispered conversation between the Count and Countess, William began to wonder if perhaps this was all part of the evening. At the very least it would get people talking. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chou chou rheastar</strong> on <strong>25-10-2017, 08:01:00</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Name:&nbsp; Countess Mina<br>Location: Leaving the Banquet Hall<br>Tagging: William<br>Titus and Mina (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_E_u21VRet_o/S-hMK0lYR3I/AAAAAAAAApU/iaWkszaUpds/s1600/JoanAllenPhoto_RedDress.jpg)<br><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/e6/28/fc/e628fc54c2bd126af7edf8c4adac66c3.jpg)</div><hr><br>Mina was in a state of shock at the happenings of just a few moments. She had heard the shout of 'I'm a doctor' but it had been too late for that and she ignored it in favor of her last few moment with Titus before he had succumbed and his body had been moved so as not to be gawked at. If she had been in her right mind she would have demanded everyone stay in the ballroom and remove their masks immediately, she would have had every single person, including staff, stay in that room until the Sheriff's department arrived. But, alas, she was not thinking clearly and had not done so. Many would and did believe her callous and cold, she even heard a whisper that she ahd orchestrated the whole thing to off her husband so she could benefit from his death. She had glared at the poor woman as she walked passed but hadn't said a word. <br><br>She had kissed Markus to try and return some feeling to her self but that hadn't even helped and Mina had moved on to see how the staff was handling the development. Security was watching all the cameras, two people going over the footage from when the Count had been stabbed but it was inconclusive, like the person had known where all the cameras were angled. Disappointed and feeling numb she had gone back down to the banquet hall, listening to the rumors and hearing the tensions rise she swept from the room and spied the man in white and his wolf mask. Mina stepped up to him and laid a small hand on his chest, keeping the pretense of anonymity that the masks suggested she pretended she didn't know exactly who he was.<br><br>"Care to take a walk in the gardens?" Mina said, her voice half whisper.<br><br>She could hear the whispered conversations of those who had seen what happened, the fact that she was approaching someone so soon after her husbands murder painted her as more and more of a cold and unfeeling woman. A woman out for her husbands money or out for freedom. None of which was true but Mina let them gossip, her only focus her hand on the White Wolf's chest and her eyes meeting his.<br><hr>Name:&nbsp; Hudson<br>Location: Ballroom<br>Tagging: Isobelle, and Elia<br><div class="floatright">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/42/a3/5a/42a35abe713de6973b48c08310d19270--bearded-men-dont-care.jpg)</div> <br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">costume</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/2b/d0/d6/2bd0d682c42f9eab7a107e3e2f0cc518.jpg)</div></div><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">mask</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/16/ac/e5/16ace5367f9e9629bae9f9fd0da47828--raven-mask-mask-ideas.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>As Isobelle and Elia lost composure for a moment Hudson frowned, he indeed did not want to be murdered as well but panicking would not do anything for them. Hudson had served in his home countries army for many years before taking up the life of a movie star, he did well under pressure but it also made him seem uncaring at times in moments of stress. He did not wish to seem this way towards these women so he put himself between them and the commotion happening while Isobelle and Elia spoke. He took the hand Elia placed on his and squeezed it gently before laying a hand on Isobelle's shoulder and gently stroking the soft skin there.<br><br>"I am all for trying to leave," Hudson said, his husky voice steady, "but that would be painting us in a bad light once the authorities get here," he reminded them. "I think the idea of finding a easily defensible place is a very good idea," he said and smiled at Elia. He stroked a hand over Isobelle's shoulder once more and tugged gently to haul her to her feet. Hudson tucked Elia under his arm, it was easy as she was so much smaller than him, and did the same with Isobelle. "We shall find a room and tuck ourselves in until the sheriff arrives, alright?"<br><hr><br>The music continued to play as the orchestra changed to as West Coast Swing, song.<br><br>https://youtu.be/FGVGFfj7POA
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Vlexia</strong> on <strong>25-10-2017, 17:18:58</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a9/e0/ca/a9e0cad0f1fe82aadad6f95ed69dc14d.jpg)</div> <strong>Name:</strong> Isobelle<br><strong>Location: </strong>Banquet Hall<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Gown</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/UT8dpECXPdaXXagOFbXx.jpg_640x10000.jpg)<br></div></div><br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Elia, Hudson, Stephen <br><div class="floatright">(https://sites.create-cdn.net/siteimages/5/0/3/50308/93/2/8/9328459/747x1000.jpg?1416057531)</div><hr><br>The Viking God was right, if they tried to leave now it would look incredibly bad to the authorities when they arrived as it would appear they had fled the scene.<br><br>"Shit." Isobelle cursed at his logic but did indeed stand up when he silently beckoned her to before he placed an arm around her waist. She nodded. "I believe that is a good idea. Now that the rest of the place is opened as the guards are all looking for the mad murderer, let's slip out and find a place to hide out and make sure we aren't the next grizzly victims." Turning her head around, Isobelle got a wicked idea before turning to Angel with a sneaky snicker. "Wait, before we go I'm going to grab us a bottle of something from the bar, you grab some plates of food. You too, Thor. Let's meet up by the exit." And with that she giggled mischievously from under the man's arm as they split up with their assignments, the exotic woman walking very casually over to the bar as the server behind it was gossiping with one of the guests in distraction, and very quickly she leaned and reached over to grab a bottle of red wine and a second bottle of whiskey. Turning around quickly, she hugged her contraband to her breasts and returned to the rendezvous point to find her partners waiting for her. "Good girl," she commended Elia as she handed her the bottle of wine before taking one of the two plates heaped with food from her so that they were sharing an equal load. Jerking her head towards the exit, Isobelle saw a flash of the Countess approach the older gentleman in white and invite him outside. "That <em>bitch</em>!" Isobelle pointed out the couple. "Look, she's all over another man before her husband's body has even grown cold!" She snuggled back under Hudson's left arm and against him as the trio made their way towards the door, continuing to gossip. "I bet she planned this whole thing to murder her husband so that she wouldn't be under suspicion." <br><br>They were almost out of the banquet hall before she spotted a singular man sitting by himself at a table, casually eating as if the murder didn't faze him in the least, his eyes clearly bored through the eyeholes of his mask, chewing his steak and enjoying his meal.<br><br>"Hey, you," Isobelle spoke to him as they passed his table on their way out. "Care to join us? We are off to explore the rest of this huge castle and try not to get killed." She lifted the bottle of pilfered whiskey in her hand and tempting him by wiggling her wrist in offering. "And possibly get drunk."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mimetisme</strong> on <strong>26-10-2017, 02:57:36</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://78.media.tumblr.com/340353926d30224378a32e525b272a78/tumblr_oxxz9cXbTS1vxwaceo1_250.gif) </div><strong> Name: </strong> Claudine<br><strong> Location: </strong> Banquet Hall<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Attire</div><div class="spoiler_body"> (https://78.media.tumblr.com/3878bda0143cedb7662109ca4f9ef34a/tumblr_oxtstwsgJu1vxwaceo1_400.gif)</div></div><br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Markus/Open<br><strong>Mentioning: </strong> Marieme, Isobelle, Elia, Hudson, Sebastion, Stephen<br><hr><span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font"><strong><em><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">I</span></em></strong></span>t was unavoidable, of course. To not hear the murmurs, whispers, and vocalized tones that blended with the music coming from the ballroom. Bits and pieces here and there as Spade worked on collecting a decent sized sample of various foods. Patiently. Calmly. Undisturbed. So unphased by the tremor that was being awoken. It was rather hard to swallow down a bubble in her throat that wanted to release a chuckle. Instead, she held a gentle though small smile, showing no reaction to the darkness that exhaled here this night, seeking to touch and stain every pulse it could. Perhaps it was because this was something she was intimately accustomed to that allowed her to be so, calm. The trouble that had befallen seemed as obvious as it did not. Was only a matter of how connected she willfully decided to allow herself to become, or not become.<br><br>To stop giving glances towards the two loners, Skeleton and Raven, as a hearty stew was poured into a bowl. To not even shift her gaze towards the owner of the words “<em>I’m a doctor.</em>” as she added some vegetables to her plate. To not even flinch under the manic tone of "<em>Does it look like we are alright?</em>" as a portion of meat strips was being set to her plate. To not sigh while green leaves and red tomatoes sprinkled with seasoning and shreds of cheese were deposited to a small salad plate. To utterly not react to any of it, only focus on her own plot of course. Which currently was finding herself some semblance of filling to ingest for energy and slow the pace of alcohol being absorbed. Apparently, in guessing by the flow of commotion around her, she would need some sense of wits and clarity to her mind. Especially considering the castle was sealed, allowing not one of them to escape while also allowing them the freedom to roam. <em>Finally</em>.<br><br>A sea of thoughts and whispers died within Claudine’s mind, no echo lingering as hairs tingled gently in knowing someone had moved in close. Stilling her arm, about ready to fetch some bread that was near the steaming dish of meatballs, those green orbs lazily rolled to the side. The Egyptian Deity returned in finding her. Invaded and mingled her small area of space with his own, not that she would complain after the passion of dance they had shared. Under his whisper, her breath hitched as she visibly shivered, the smile she had fading into its death swiftly. Softly swallowing, her hand twitched as though it considered trembling, all to abandon the idea altogether. Collected all the masked dancer had said, stringing it up in her mind like twinkling ornaments to behold how each one shimmered and shined in the individual definitions. <strong>Count. Dead. Blood. Ballroom. Witness. Countess. Castle. Locked In. Unlocked Inside. Killer. Loose.</strong> <em>Masked, no doubt</em>, a piece of her mind offered before going silent once more.&nbsp; <br><br>The bubble before that she had popped reformed then, born from a stomach that rolled and a heart that quickened. Some much for retaining a calm and collected disposition as she hiccupped a trembling chuckle. Raw hunger transformed to nervous hunger in the span of a second not even. With it, the hand once more lifted, reaching again towards the unbalanced pile of displayed rolls. “<em>Senza senso,</em>” Claudine said, the spoken words of Italian for saying ‘<em>nonsense</em>’, letting neck muscles guide her head to drift side to side in slowly shaking her cranium. “<em>Surely it is an act, dear. A ploy to help us all embrace the influence of mystery and suspense that the holiday tends to awake in eager minds. To add a fire to our blood that has only a few ways to be soothed and extinguished. Besides</em>,” the hand moved now to the serving dish containing the meatballs he had remarked about. "<em>If this was all true as you say. The music still plays,</em>" she followed in an offering, straining to choke back any semblance of true unease she had in opposition to her projected words.<br><br>Paused but a moment, giving him a chance to consider her words instead of simply reacting to them. Using that moment, she added the circular-like wads of meat to her plate where she had room. "<em>Put your mind at ease. At least for now. Fill yourself with meatballs and more, wine, and my company before this supposed malevolent phantom decides to invite Death to paint the floor crimson once again,</em>" said with a lightly tinted nervous chuckle before she turned, gaze falling in dance over him with a hand to set of two fingers to his bicep nearest her. It was there, hiddenly so as it was, the faintest quiver to her voice in all her words. Had heard it, as did he no doubt. Calm and collected as she seemed behind her mental shield, there were a few cracks that were obvious that unveiled glimpses of truth. Nervousness. Perhaps even a touch of apprehension, as silly as she tried to make seem.<br><br>In the end, it would be his choice to make, not something she could demand of him. To join her or not. To feast from her plate or his own. Flashing him a wink from under the mask, eyes almost glinting in approval as they swept over him, slowly. Proved much on the dance floor about his physique and conditioning. Even his confidence in his awkward words from earlier. Altogether, he actually seemed rather a strange breed of charming in his own fashion that she was unaccustomed to. Beyond all that, if all was true, this was not the time to be bold and defiant even as she discretely licked her lips and turned away from him. Locked inside with a killer was a page torn directly from history, not to mention written tales of horror. Safety in numbers, only virgins survive, don't hide upstairs. That mess of dribble.<br><br>A final glance over her shoulder to him, Claudine wondered many a silent thing before looking away. Was all well and good to know she could most likely handle herself if one dared assault and attack her. The scars to her flesh were mostly gone. Money made sure of that but, the memory of how they had been gained remained. In her world and line of business, it demanded certain unsavory qualities of the mind to achieve all she had. All the same, it would sincerely be comforting to know she would have another at her side. Quite similar to the small group of elegantly decorated bodies that had herded themselves in fit together that she noticed in awareness while she found a place to settle. Chose a place where the light was dimmer, more private while also on display, somewhat. As if there were no secrets that needed protecting and hiding.<br><br>Abandoning her small platter, the glide of Claudine’s steps carried her towards the bar to fetch a drink. <em>No, make that two</em>, a voice within her mind purred. One for herself and one for the <em>Egyptian Deity</em>. That being if she was correct in that he likely not would choose a different path that was not her. If proven wrong, well. All the more for her, or potentially another who was masked in a mystery of secrets as they all were. <em>Though, who to trust</em>, she idly wondered as her hand slightly shook in collecting the filled wine glasses presented to her. Perhaps she even could and would be of fret and panic on the surface, later. For now, she was particularly hungry as she was thirsty. In various ways at that, finding her line of sight briefly flirted on the fancy Skeleton then the Raven before her back was turned on them, slipping back into dim lighting as she took the seat in anxious wait.&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eikichi</strong> on <strong>27-10-2017, 03:43:41</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/ac/Eikichi_Characters_44.png)</div>Name: Stephen<br>Location: Ballroom -&gt; Banquet Hall<br>Tagging: Isobelle<br>Mentioning: Elia, Hudson.<br><hr>It didn’t take long for word of the counts death to reach him; naturally thanks to the fact that the bulk of people were now gossiping about the murder and who the murderer could be. Regardless of the fact that the murder had occurred in the same room as him Stephen simply wasn’t interested in the matter. It didn’t matter if the spectacle was a rarity or common occurrence to him the very idea that such a scandalous murder could occur was simply, a bore. Others might have been frightened or even intrigued by the new event but he had no reason to be intrigued. At worst an unsavory character had entered into the party and was now removing the heads of those that were unworthy, the best-case scenario was that it was simply the plot of the countess to rid herself of a troubling husband. Though, considering the looks the two of them exchanged even when they were apart it seemed unlikely that either of them would be troubled by the other but then again what happened behind closed doors could be anyone’s guess.<br><br>Regardless of the commotion that had been caused the Lord continued to simply pick at his soup, taking small portions of soup in between the cuts of beef. He’d only taken a few sips of the wine, just enough that he’d experience some light buzz later. Under normal circumstances he wouldn’t have been so gingerly with the drink but just because he was indifferent to a killer stalking the party it didn’t mean he’d willfully constrain himself by getting drunk. Yet receiving some inhibition, or at least a stronger buzz, was worth taking a few odds sips now and then. It was while he was still enjoying his meal that the group who’d just walked past now stopped to address him. He didn’t immediately address the statement she’d given him, instead he brought the spoonful of soup in his hand to his mouth before it became cold. While he took that last bite of soup his eyes wandered over the strange pair of women and their suitor. Under normal circumstances he would have simply rejected the offer and finished is meal before venturing off alone through the halls; they were a large enough group that he wouldn’t need to concern himself with the fact they were wandering around.<br><br>It was the fact that the group were blatantly venturing off to explore, while carrying a bottle of whiskey and happily asking strangers to join them which really irked him. If they were so willful about their intentions to burden themselves with drink and unabashed about inviting others along, it really would be wrong to simply leave them to their own devices, no matter how many there might have been. He eased the spoon from his lips and set it down beside the bowl, all while rising to his feet and pushing back the chair behind him. <strong><em> “I’ll join you though..</em></strong> He stepped around the table, pushing the chair into it while taking the cloth that had been in his lap and draping it over the dishes. Once he’d made his way around the table he gave a slight gesture toward the entrance out of the banquet hall. <strong><em> “.. Don’t be surprised if I decide to wander off on my own. Not that you’ll notice if you plan on taking chugs of this.”</em></strong> He reached up, bringing the tip of his index finger to the mid-section of the bottle and lightly tapping it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ff</strong> on <strong>27-10-2017, 05:04:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://pre00.deviantart.net/8665/th/pre/f/2014/155/c/8/white_fairy___stock_by_mariaamanda-d7l12qi.jpg)</div>Name:&nbsp; Elia<br>Location: Banquet -&gt; Gold Bedroom (https://i.pinimg.com/736x/cd/fb/e9/cdfbe9393a2da506a28484f7b3becf14--castle-bedroom-royal-bedroom.jpg)<br>Tagging:&nbsp; Isobelle, Hudson, Stephen<br><hr><br>Elia loved the idea. She piled up as much food as she could - heavy on the caramel-and-cream sweets she’d had earlier, and plenty of more protein-rich fare of the sort that she imagined fueled Thor’s physique.<br><br>She was quick to rendezvous with him and Bella again, and giggled as she felt a strong arm around her. “Thank you,” she whispered to Hudson,&nbsp; “I feel safer already. And I’m not saying that to flirt - well maybe that too - but it’s true.”<br><br>She was glad the raven-masked fellow with the kryptonite-cutting jawline acceded to Bella’s idea to join them, although he seemed curiously cryptic about how seriously he took the idea. Elia chimed in, “We were thinking we’d be safer from all this scary nonsense, somewhere more secluded and secure. I promise Bella and I will think of a way to keep you fellows entertained, as thanks for protecting us.” <br><br>As they made their way on, she realized Hudson had been right about it being unwise to try to actually leave-leave, what with the law enforcement’s warning. They’d only draw suspicion if they were noticed in the attempt. Daddy would be furious if he had to bail her out of some legal trouble, especially at what was supposed to be her debut society event. Claude Benoit had resources, to be sure, but with his own gray market and paramilitary connections, he didn’t like needless legal entanglements. <br><br>They wound their way out of the crowd and through halls, peeking in those doorways that were open. The garden looked gorgeous, but all those spooky shadows and hollows where a killer might lurk...such a shame. <br><br>“It’s PERFECT,” Elia declared when she saw a particular room. “It’s like..I feel like Marie Antoinette! And look I have cake!” She wiggled the plate with the desserts on it. <br><br>She was quick to scurry into the luxurious golden room. It was somehow cozy, despite its Versailles-tier opulence. She set down what she’d carried, and bounced her butt on the bed a few times. “Now let’s see if we can lock ourselves in for a spell...maybe even move some furniture over the door. I’d have to leave that to the stronger men, but I promise to make myself useful. How about my glass pours you a nice drink on me- wait,” she hiccuped, “I mean, how about I pour you a nice drink in a glass.” She hiccuped again. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>ArtemisHighmore</strong> on <strong>30-10-2017, 19:38:35</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://www.duchamplondon.com/duchamp_blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/aiden-shaw-6.jpg)</div><strong>Name:</strong> William<br><strong>Location:</strong> Ballroom, Looking into the Banquet Hall<br><strong>Tagging:</strong> Open, Countess Mina<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Outfit</div><div class="spoiler_body">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/b7/26/e5/b726e50a805a2b3dc61a60b5b5d5ff2e--aiden-shaw-summer-campaign.jpg)</div></div><hr><br>William hadn’t really settled on what to think of all of the commotion, if that was the proper term for it. In part he could understand the need for such a theatrical performance given the time of year and how much modern people seemed to enjoy a good mystery. But that had never been his style and he was no sincerely doubting why he had bothered to attend such an event. A part of him really wished that such things might have been hinted at in the invite. It would have given him plenty of reason to send a kind letter in response and then to maybe find a chance in the coming weeks to invite the Countess for coffee or a light lunch.<br><br>He was just about to turn away and seek out someone for another glass of Scotch when he felt a curious and yet familiar presence closing in on him. Before he good turn his gaze back towards the approaching perhaps, the Countess’s voice hit his ears and stiffened slightly. The press of her hand certainly didn’t do much to lessen the tension. “Countess… “<br><br>Recovering from being momentarily caught off guard, he studied her for a moment. “I dare say it doesn’t seem that you are playing your part well in this little murder mystery of yours. Aren’t you supposed to be the grieving widow in this? Distraught over the apparently loss of her husband, panicked that the killer is still out there, lurking and watching? I thought that was how these were supposed to go? If that is not the case then what is the point of it all?”<br><br>He arched a brow behind his mask, confused by her comment about stepping outside when she had only recently mentioned that no one was to leave the house until the authorities arrived. Was that all for talk and show as well? Spotting the bar across the way, he lifted a hand to stop any explanation that might be coming forth from her. “I have neither mood nor patience for theatrics and games. Enjoy your evening and the rest of your party Countess.”<br>Gently but firmly removing her hand from his chest, he stepped around her and moved off through the crowd, deciding that perhaps he would pull out a few bills and try to talk the man working the bar out of a whole bottle. Since he wasn’t getting to leave he might as well have something to improve his evening. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>dblkrose</strong> on <strong>02-11-2017, 04:34:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/hphotos-xaf1/t51.2885-15/s640x640/sh0.08/e35/11917865_1484291961887317_2019264209_n.jpg)</div><div class="floatleft">(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/7b/8e/74/7b8e745e098bc61ef6f36ae32e84f650--anubis-mask-the-mask.jpg)</div>Name: Markus<br>Location: Banquet Hall<br>Tagging: Claudine <br>Mentioning: Elia, Hudson, Isobelle, Stephen<br><hr><br>Markus listened as his burgundy-hued Dance Partner dismissed his report on the Count's death as a matter of staged entertainment; all the while filling her plate with various morsels that tantalized the Boxer's now realized hunger. The Banquet Hall had been decked out with enough food to feed a small village. Each dish expertly prepared and displayed to be as inviting as the culinary masterpiece next to it. Anxiety fueled adrenaline started to wane and a small rumble escaped the confines of M.J.C.'s midsection. <br><br>As, the still unnamed, Claudine placed her fingers on her escorts muscular arm she offered Cade an alternative to fretting about the chaos he had just witnessed. Sitting down and enjoying a meal with this attractive Woman did seem to make more sense than losing one's shit over something that could be nothing more than a huge game of clue.<br><br>"It was the Mask Butler in the Ballroom with the Knife?" Markus said, making light of his own inner dialog. Perhaps the domino mask wearing Brunette was right, maybe this was all just an elaborate trick... But then Markus felt and heard it, the crack in the facade within the facade. The barest of trembles and the slightest of change of tenor that told the young Fighter that the explanation he was just given wasn't as fully believed as the Young Lady had made it out to be. Cade's first instinct was to call his Dance Partner on her own bullshit, but he strangled that thought almost as quickly as it had developed. As much as he might have thought he knew this enticing Woman, he really had no clue as to who she was and what she might be feeling at the moment. Despite all that was happening and her own possible apprehension, She had simply tried to set the Boxer at ease. Wouldn't it be 'just' to do the same?<br><br>As the burgundy dressed Beauty offered Markus a wink before turning to walk away, gracing him with what might be a 'come hither' glance over her shoulder; the Lightweight Champion sighed and force a smile to his lips which turned into a genuine one as he started to look over possible fillers to the empty plate he was reaching for. M.J.C. started with the classics, various cuts of meats and cheese set out for sampling before adding some vegetables cut perfectly so that they may be dipped in a variety of creams and sauces. When one small plate had been covered to excess, Markus gathered another and loaded it up with several types of pieces of bread and pats of flavored butter. Finally, after stacking one plate on top of the other, he went for a bowl but instead of pouring in some delish smelling soup, Cade took his lovely Dance Partner's advice and went to town on the meatballs. It was a balancing act, to say the least, for the Fighter but he had Olympic athlete agility after all. As he passed several guests, they stared at his abundance of plates and food with various levels of amusements to outright disgust. At least that was what he guessed they were expressing behind their individual masks. <br><br>"What?" Markus said to anyone who dared looked too long. "Did I miss something?" <br><br>The Woman that had tried to set Markus's mind at ease had found herself a table that was off the beaten path but not hiding out in the corner. Her plate was still there but as M.J.C. scanned for her he realized she had moved to the bar and was ordering herself a drink. As the Anibus Warrior sat his treasure trove of food down he thought to himself what sort of beverage he might order. That thought ended upon seeing the Mask wearing Brunette return with a second glass in tow. As Markus reached for the wine he felt the shake that vibrated the rich golden liquid within. As the Woman sat down, Cade returned his hand to hers after setting the offered goblet of wine on the table. The Boxer squeezed his Dance Partner's hand, wrapping his own around her's so that his fingertips could tickle her palm. Markus locked his hooded eyes on the ones peering thru the domino mask and spoke softly, confidently, and precisely. <br><br>"Maybe you're right and this is all just one big game. Maybe you're wrong and our lives are in jeopardy. It doesn't matter because..." Markus looks one way then another for ock dramatic effect before returning to his soliloquy "...WE are fighters. WE are Survivors... and most of all, WE are together in this. I promise you, I got your back." Cade gave another reassuring squeeze before letting his Partner's hand go. The Fighter wasn't sure if his words were of any help or even warranted. Still he didn't regret saying them and Markus meant every word. Markus Jerome Cade wasn't a hero by any stretch of the definition but the Jackaled Masked Fighter wasn't a coward either. M.J.C. would protect himself and anyone he felt close to without a hesitation and if he could offer this Woman some reassurance to help her get thru the night, he was happy to do so. <br><br>"Besides, I'm going to need those hands to be steady... someone's going to have to help me eat with this damn mask on?" <br><br>As Cade watched the group of two men and two women, that he had thought to throw his lot in earlier, disappear to explore the castle and possibly a way out, he turned to his Masked Dinner Companion with a mischievous smile. "Hey Beautiful, how about after we refuel, then we find someplace to wander off too... I'm sure there's more to this castle than ballrooms and banquets halls. Let's go find some trouble?"<br><br>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Night of the Fireflies (Freeform, Halloween Masquerade Ball)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Mimetisme</strong> on <strong>03-11-2017, 01:25:44</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(https://78.media.tumblr.com/340353926d30224378a32e525b272a78/tumblr_oxxz9cXbTS1vxwaceo1_250.gif) </div><strong> Name: </strong> Claudine<br><strong> Location: </strong> Banquet Hall<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Attire</div><div class="spoiler_body"> (https://78.media.tumblr.com/3878bda0143cedb7662109ca4f9ef34a/tumblr_oxtstwsgJu1vxwaceo1_400.gif)</div></div><br><strong> Tagging: </strong> Markus<br><strong> Mentioning: </strong> Isobelle, Elia, Hudson, Stephen<br><hr><span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font"><strong><em><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size">T</span></em></strong></span>here was a glimpse, nothing more and nothing less. Watching as the quartet of masked faces formed a pack that was seeking to venture elsewhere within the castle. For the briefest of moments, Claudine wondered just how wise that was in judgment. Especially to be going off with bottles in hand. Certainly one would prefer to have some sense to them. Then again, even with her buried fears and suspicions, she was being no stranger to the drink. If anything, she could use plenty more. Which was rather foolish on her part considering the other things that were teasing thought dancing about in her mind. <em>That</em> and <em>those</em>, could and would wait until the time was, right. Truthfully, it was about the current now, not the later. With barely a smile she watched them scurry, straining to not chuckle at the path they were going. Also, to not chuckle under the bundle of nerves she herself was trying ever so hard to keep anchored at bay. If she herself gave into that nagging voice in the farthest end of the mind, surrendered to panic and fright, many a time precise plan would shatter before her. Instead of eating, hiding behind her front, she would prefer being in a sea of bodies. So she suspected. Then again, if all was a truth, it mattered not where any of them would seek shelter and sanctuary. After all, it was out in the open the Count Daough was supposedly murdered. So much for the belief of safety in numbers. Perhaps the quartet had exactly the right idea in mind after all.<br><br>Ideas and thoughts which evaporated rather instantly when her mystery dance partner had indeed chosen to follow her path. So easily distracted, which was not normal for her by any stretch. It was always eyes and mind on a goal she had set to achieve. Regardless, there he was. The man who aimed to be the Egyptian Deity, the Anubis Warrior incarnate. Well, at least in look. Though it seemed he even had a bowl filled with meatballs as she had suggested to him. The fact he had done that actually bled some warmth into even a small and gentle smile as the one she wore then. The warmth stayed even as his hand encompassed her own, leaving her jaw to twitch as enamel pressed down against enamel. Not exactly grinding, simply prepared in ready to hear something she would find displeasing on some level. Though secretly, she had to admit there was some bizarre sense of comfort to hear his voice. Soft. Confident. Almost as if she could actually trust him despite the masks they both wore. Even the way his fingers grazed her palm, she wasn’t getting even the faintest hint of animosity from him. If there was, it was not aimed directly at her. However, the last breath of his words before he released her hand seemed to hover in her mind a second or two longer.<em>”I promise you, I got your back.”</em>. Words that were quickly devoured by the shadows in her mind before she could attempt to cherish them.<br><br>Focused now on his next breath of words, sight flickering in a dance between his platter of food and the small gap of space that allowed his mouth to only be somewhat exposed. That had certainly been a passing thought in her mind before. Him, managing to eat while wearing the identity barrier his mask gave him. <em>Perhaps if he ate like a squirrel or a bird.</em> The tiniest of bites that would do nothing to excite the taste buds. From the looks and wafting aromas of everything, none of the prepared food that was being served was made to taste bland, obviously. So she suspected, at least. If memory served her correctly, the food was one of the numerous high points of delights that were spoken of after the night was over. There were other things said afterward, of course, none meant for the ears of polite society. Hence why everyone wore a mask. It certainly played the part into why she wore the particular mask she had chosen before anything else she currently was wearing. There was silent meaning behind her choice, not that she expected anyone to so passionately know history as she did and does. However, she also was free to eat and drink without worry, among other things if she so chooses. Or not chooses if- And that fast she slammed shut an instantly locked door on the hallway of thought while also throwing away the key. If for nothing else, her masked companion, the Egyptian Deity, did not seem the type for the <em>sexual games</em> she oh so enjoyed. <em>Then again</em>... quietly chuckled then as she looked away from him, reaching for her drink.<br><br>Indeed, he seemed to have that unspoken gleam to him that she was drawn to while they had danced. Fierce. Challenging. Intimate. Why even on the dance floor, more than a few impure thoughts had swum in her mind. Ones that either sank into the graveyard of forgotten nothingness or simply vanished when he abruptly had a particular fascination with his cell phone. Now that she thought about it, bringing the glass to her painted lips, the timing of events could not be more... peculiar. Off her dancing partner disappeared, returning in what seemed freshly new threads, acting too convincingly like a hen when a fox strolls into its house. All to be so easily swayed in distraction by, of all things, meatballs. Despite the bravado of her boast the murder surely had to be an act of entertainment, there was that tiny voice which whispered what if she was wrong. It was that fraction of her mind which refused to be compelled into becoming ice and steel. The lone source that gave birth to the hint of a quake in her tone and left oft nimble and precise limbs and digits to shiver. It was that same voice she was at war against within her mind as she greedily did not sip but, swallowed after a swallow of the drink. <br><br>Attempted to both drown that inane voice of paranoia while soaking each fiber of muscle into relaxing. Surely he had no hand plunged into what she strained to retain a continued belief it had been no more than a staged event. However, still, she found herself torn over what to believe despite her best efforts. <em>Was Count Daough indeed cradled and carried away in Death's arms? Was the man at her elbow an essential tool used in awakening Death where it was not invited?</em> Those questions whirled and whirled around in her mind, desperate to find the answers. Any answer that would soothe and comfort the restless babe of anxiety back into slumbering. All for the wrong reasons, of course. There was something far greater at stake this night. <em>We are all are simply pawns here in the confined trap of an endless game. Mere shadows of masked puppets that dance on a stage without a captivated and adoring audience</em>. One misstep, the curtain could fall on such an extravagant show as this one being performed by all of those gathered here. The first act had only just closed and this was no more than an early intermission.&nbsp; <br><br>It was the considerably apathetic thoughts of that nature that governed the movement of taking a now empty vessel from her lips. That awakened the hidden beast which coaxed the lids of her eyes to fall lazily as orbs of a murky bog in green and gold tones became more shadowed. Hidden behind the thick and curled bars of ebony lashes as they glided to side in looking to him. The essence that commanded warmth rejuvenated into the plump expansion that was her lips as their corners pinched and pulled, subtly grinning into her smile. That very thing which skipped and giggled carefreely around a word caught in the center to one of many webs within the corridors of her mind. <em>Trouble.</em> Even the sheer sound of it from him more than anything else he had said radiated the power to frighten and chase into hiding those insipid questions of doubt and fear. Already he had claimed to recognize just a bit of the stalking predator known best as <em>danger </em>within her eyes. Where there was trouble, danger always followed. The same said in reversing the positions. To say the least.&nbsp; <br><br>Much like how the hand he formerly had held a few moments ago discretely decided to play hide and seek. It's precise movements timed by the now steady thumps in her chest that no longer had an underlining pitter patter of nervousness. The hand falling to hide from sight and blindly land on his thigh. Glided finger pads and palm slowly across the firm plane of his thigh, forging a path to the inside curve as her head casually gave a subtle turn and inching cant towards him. Even the sweetest poison that branched in curving her smile deepened, fingers curling so flawless nails sank down against what it had sought, his thigh gently, testingly, as she quietly exhaled a throaty chuckle. If only he knew the switch he managed to flip within her mind by his uttering that magical singular word. Both appreciated and considered him precious for invoking such a delightful reminder within her. Even birthed the whispering question within her mind of who said trouble had not already found him the moment she had caught his eye. Then again when he made his brand of the charming proposal in polite demand to dance with her. Though was that trouble or danger, the line was rather blurred for her at the moment. Perhaps it was both.&nbsp; <br><br>"<em>Fortunate you, oh Egyptian Deity. Or shall I say proud warrior of Anubis? Makes no matter. I'll take proper care of seeing that your, hunger, is sated</em>," she practically purred, doing nothing to conceal just how naturally thick her Italian accent was. Nor the perfume of lust it had traveled out towards him on. Pausing only to slowly moisten her lips with the tip of her tongue for effect. Keeping her hand where it was, the other reached and swooped, clutching a fork delicately into her grasp. A hesitation hold before the fork was set down, the hand to his thigh now became fearlessly bold in giving his thigh a firm squeeze then completely letting go. Leaned closer, the hand formerly on his thigh now rising in scaling upward across him in a slow slithering path towards his chin. Needed not to see the stacked row on cheese found on his plate then, plucking one up between her fingers. Constantly keeping sight trained on what she could make out of the shine to his eyes, the hand used but two fingers to brush and slowly push his mask up enough his identity remained a mystery though not his mouth. "<em>First, we need to cleanse your palate so you can truly appreciate and savor everything, you,</em>" Timed perfectly with the whisper of that last word in sound, the cheese tickled in brush against his bottom lip, taunting his mouth to open for her offering. Once it did, her smile only to deepen as she lightly exhaled. "<em>Taste</em>." <br><br>Watched almost with curious fascination as he allowed entrance into the sweltering tomb of his mouth. Slowly guiding the thin mass into his mouth, her own chin giving a small rise as her breath became still. Held that thin slab of cheese over his tongue but a moment, then backed her hand away to allow him to suckle, chew, then swallow. Even before the small mass in his throat had completed it's downward journey, her hand had returned, a pulled pinch of meat between her fingers. Once again, as he obediently opened his mouth for her, she inserted the meat, keeping it hostage against his tongue. A moment to savor, a second to succumb to the rich flavor herbs and juices awoke in spread over his taste buds. All to release to allow him to again chew, combining the flavor with his saliva that followed down the morsel he swallowed. A breath was all it took to briefly revive the taste before her hand obediently returned, offering him more. Took pause only when she would wave her hand towards his own beverage, gaining her an opportunity to intake some food from her own plate. For them, time moved slowly on while it also ticked away, vanishing like the food on both of their plates. Right on until they both had only one piece each left of cheese so to cleanse their palates. <br><br><br>
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