Masquerade! Hide your face, so the world will never find you!

[dorian-excolo.livejournal.com]

Saturday, October 31st
Evening
The Home of Alessandra Ferdis


The last few days have been, at best, a blur of activity and I can't say that it's left me in the best of spirits.  Party planning is always a chore, even a gathering as small as this, and I suppose it's the price to be paid - blood, sweat, and countless hours spent hunched over fabric - for an evening of excitement.  Alessandra has been more than accommodating, as I've measured, decorated, and almost completely reordered most of her house.  It will take some time, tomorrow once the festivities are well over, to put things back to sorts, but I've already hired hands to assist in that.

That is one benefit of living in Excolo, there is never a shortage of strong backs willing to do a bit of labor for good pay, and in a matter of days the entire place has been transformed into something resembling a fitting locale.  The walls have been covered with lush fabrics, the garden littered with a multitude of hanging lights, and the main room leading to the back cleared for the guests.  After that, it's only been a matter of setting up the refreshments, finding a suitable place for the music, and dimming the lights.

I could kill myself over the details of course, it's in my nature, and so as soon as things are well in hand, I retire to the upstairs guest suite to dress.  It's a simple design, more a personal amusement than anything else, and I doubt anyone will get the joke.  Those always are the best sorts of fun, though, the personal chuckles that are mine alone.  I finish strapping my sword to my side, mask still sitting on a nearby table, and cross to the balcony doors to peek outside.  The sun has faded into the horizon and guests have started to arrive.  That leaves me with a bit of time - I have no intention on making anything less than a memorable entrance - and so I lean against the door frame, careful to keep out of sight of those out front, and light a cigarette.

There's movement from the adjacent dressing room.  Glass.  I'd nearly forgotten, in the insanity of preparations, that she was dressing here as well.  It certainly wouldn't do to have Iago see her before the game has begun, after all.  I smile at that and call out, "You can't hide in there all evening, pet.  Might as well come out and let me have a look."

[Open]

[It's midnight!  Wrapping up!]

Comments

[glass-beddau.livejournal.com]

It's not the mask (http://pics.livejournal.com/iago_excolo/pic/000ber8g) that's any trouble to have set in place, but I'm worrying over the pin in my hair, feathers and thin twists of silk and beads and hidden in them the glitter as of the queen of frost and sunlight. Because well enough that the two of them are after betting whether I can or can't be found, but I am not setting my ring aside.

Tug on it and wince at the sharp drag, then reset it firm. It's not for falling, and it'd take notable effort to see it yanked out aside, not that I'm expecting such.

"You can't hide in there all evening, pet. Might as well come out and let me have a look."

"I'd ask if you cared to bet," I call back dryly, "but I recall that's how I got into this. Little as this (http://pics.livejournal.com/dorian_excolo/pic/0001txtf) is," I add in a softer tone. Soft black cloth and the brilliant blue-green feathers in a twist and that's fine enough, and I turn attention to that rather than how it's cut sleeveless and low in front and mad high on the hem with only thin skeins draping across the stomach. And the skirt, same soft black decked with feathers and a thin filmed twist of fabric for the better part of it...

Well, bloody glad I won that argument for another two inches. Though I swear he added it to the heels as well... They're shorter than Wanda's, but taller than the ones I'm used to.

Quick shake of my head to assure the mask is set and I step across the hallway to cross the room where Dorian's standing, taking up the other side of the doorframe and snagging his cigarette as I do so. Familiar taste of smoke helps steady me, and I take a quick nervous glance out and there are folk I'd not be surprised to know, but none I recognize, small bright splashes of colour and motion in the evening light.

"Looks more'n fine," I say softly, then look over at him and smile. "I ask after who you are, we going t'have another talk as we did over that painting?"

[dorian-excolo.livejournal.com]

There's a fair bit of complaining from her side, nothing that wasn't expected, and I wait in expectant silence until I hear the door creak open. I turn from the sight of the new arrivals, I will admit the steady flow of guests through the front has caught my attention, to watch Glass ease from the dressing room. She looks a vision and I knew she would, even with the slight blush threatening her cheeks. Or perhaps that only adds to the sight? I can't say.

She crosses the room and leans back at the other side of the balcony door after plucking the cigarette from my lips. I smirk a bit, glancing her way and shaking my head. "Looks more'n fine," she comments, looking out towards the front.

"It looks positively civilized." I shrug. "Let's pray it doesn't stay that way, hmm?"

Glass stops fretting over the guests soon to surround her, she can't pretend that isn't what she's doing, and looks my way. "I ask after who you are, we going t'have another talk as we did over that painting?"

I laugh at that. Even after an hour of rather patient explanation, she's still after calling it 'that painting'. I'd strangle her if it weren't so damn amusing. "I refuse to begin my evening with that sort of headache." Some sort of soft smile comes through the put-upon annoyance and, though I won't admit its presence, I certainly don't go about changing it either. "To put it as simply as possible, I'm the ultimate uninvited party guest." A pause and of course she isn't following, why would she be. "Death. The Red Death, to be exact, but I did promise simplicity."

[kateohara.livejournal.com]

I'm full of nerves and excitement tonight, and arriving at the gate of Mrs Ferdis' house doesn't help - the place is so huge, and in the dark quite intidimating. I take a breath to steady myself. A couple of people in bright costumes give me curious looks - or I think they're curious; it's hard to tell with the masks - and pass on up the driveway and into the house. I'm glad I'm meeting Tess here, because I think I need some company to dare go in.

I smooth down my costume. I think it looks quite good, especially considering how quickly I put it together. I cut the bottom off an old white nightgown and hemmed it, and added a couple of tucks, and it gives a good impression of being an old fashioned shirt, and the billows of the fabric make my curves less noticeable. I am wearing thick green woollen tights under it, but it still feels strange being out in public in something that only comes to mid-thigh. At least I'm wearing my riding boots. Over the top of the shirt I have a leather jerkin, and the costume is finished off with a toy bow I bought from The Craftsman's Touch, which I have slung over my shoulder, and a green cap trimmed with a feather. After all that I didn't have time to make a mask, so I bought one from the maskmaker who has been in town - a pleasant woman, although a little eccentric. I chose a very simple one in plain black, and when I put it on with my hair hidden under the hat I thought I looked a bit like a highwayman. The idea made me laugh a little.

[tess-thiess.livejournal.com]

There's a chill in the air speakin' 'a frost soon. It bites at me some as I walk down t'the house where the party's happenin'. It ain't hard t'find - there's only a couple houses this big in the whole town, and one 'a them's gone now. There's someone out from with a peaked and feathered cap with a toy boy hung over one shoulder, 'n I hurry my steps, feeling warmer despite the chill thinkin' 'a that night just past.

"Evenin', good sir," I say t'her as she turns, watchin' me come up. She's got the hose 'n everythin', and it looks great, even if the mask does make her look somethin' 'v a robber. I figured I dint want t'go with all the courtly clothes, so I'm wearing mostly what I was last time, only with a longer, finer inset over the dress, done up in green and with a nicer girdle belted over my hips. I wasn't sure what t'do fer a mask, but I decided on a green half-mask with a leaf pattern at the market. I glance 'round, but it's early yet, and Kate's dressed as a boy, and I kiss her quick.

[tereixa-zann.livejournal.com]

And yeah, townies, I know all the warning about going to their parties, but at this point a handful of us are sleeping in their spare beds because it's warmer, so I figure I can at least stop by.

I hardly had much to go on, but there was that guy selling broken clocks at market couple of weeks ago, and you can't pass up a thing like that, a chance to get them all running clean and bright again. And Safie had some thin yellow wool, an old and worn-thin knit that could pass for mesh in a bit of dim light, and she wasn't planning anything at all for it so she didn't mind whipping out a skirt and a kind of cowl neck that didn't have a shirt. Even helped me get some of the keys and gears onto them. Put them all over one of my black leotards and wear bracelets and belts and necklaces of bright and shining shaped metal, and it'll do. Didn't have much of a mask but Hux loaned me an old pair of goggles that had the lenses knocked out, and it'll do.

So I'm not as anyone, exactly, but between the polished metal and the soft mesh over black, and the steel and brass glinting, and the keys and gears and cogs and springs, I think I project what you might like to maybe call an ambience. Hell, look at me in daylight I'd be tacky, but I'm not going to a daylight party, am I? Going to a masquerade, fizzling limelight and running shadows and (knowing this town) drinks in every other hand, and it's not like I haven't learned how pretty something can look in the right light with a good sales pitch.

[john-thiess.livejournal.com]

I weren't really expectin' t'get the invite, but Mr. White was too distracted t'say no, and I dint go ask Tess. Heck, I'm livin' on my own, right?

Hallowe'en ain't quite the same in town I guess, but I know you're supposed t'dress as somethin' scary. And after that last night at the Carnival, gettin' chased and then rescued (and I got my own thoughts 'bout Lily) I know what scares the livin' heck out 'a me. It ain't hard t'find a big black coat, and the mask woman at the market had an easy time dyin' a big dog's head fer me. It's got a jaw that moves 'n everythin', and fer the quality it dint cost near so much as I'd expect. I figure Tess might find some use fer it after - there's a touch 'a somethin' magic 'bout it, it seems t'me.

I'm glad fer the coat tonight - it's definitely gettin' chill. I see a clockwork person all done up in gears and springs and such walkin' up, and I catch her scent as I come up behind her. I guess it's cheatin' that I can smell folks out, so I dunt give nothin' away as I swoop up half growlin' and half laughin'.

[metal-minstrel.livejournal.com]

I hadn't quite made me mind up to go to this ball thing, but at least I figured it'd be a good way t' get out an' meet my fellow folk, though I didn't expect much good conversation outta t'em tonight, with the full moon flyin' up an' mischief on most everyone's minds. So I put braids in my hair to curl it up an' took it out, an' let it shine all loose and wavy, an' dragged out my antique red gown, as pretty as the day I bought it. Dredged my closets for another bit o' shine, the requisite mask, another old thing from my grand-mama or great-grams. S'all ivory with crimson borders an' crimson ribbons drippin' off o' the ends that I catch up into my hair. Tonight I'm goin' as Mercedes, from the Count o' Monte Cristo. Read that book when I was a girl an' it's stuck to me ever since.

The gown looks good, I think as I start down the road to Lady Alessandra's house. Tad tight in the bust, but that's to my advantage, methinks. Tonight I'm just lookin' to have a little fun, an' if that includes gettin' outta this gown, so much the better. The skirt flows down t' my feet, caught up in little diamondy sandals, an' my throat's decorated up with the prettiest little love-maker I could find, silver an' ruby choker dripping with crystals. I watch a little ways ahead o' me, notin' the clockwork girl an' the bear (be that a bear? think so) who grabs her, an' I smile. Devils' night indeed, an' thanks to Ogun for't.

[lei-miao-shan.livejournal.com]

The original plan for tonight was for Lucien, Wanda and I to attend together, but Lucien, so far as I know has not yet apologized to Wanda for his harsh words during the dinner. So although I miss him terribly, although I have not seen him in days, we will not attend together. He needs to apologize to Wanda, and I will not see him until he does so.

So instead, Wanda and I decide that we will attend together. We meet at the Dormouse and we dress together, giggling and chattering like a pair of happy schoolgirls. Wanda dresses in angel wings, with a glittering black mask, and I dress in the beautiful costume (http://pics.livejournal.com/dorian_excolo/pic/0001sqy0) that Dorian made for me when I visited the shop last week. Last of all is the sparkling gilt mask (http://www.fullcircleevents.org/witches_ball_2004/images/mask_green_and_gold.jpg), although I am certain that everyone will know who I am, considering my feet. But it is the ceremony of it that is the fun, and so on come the masks, and they will stay on until midnight.

I have never visited this manor, but it is lit up and shining, and when we enter the room is filled with music and laughter. The costumes are exquisite, from the grotesque to the glorious, shining or ragged, twisted or perfect. All of them wondrous. Some folk I recognize, some I do not.

I squeeze Wanda's arm. "What shall we do first?"

[mistresswanda.livejournal.com]

My dress is indecent. Willpower alone is keeping it in place.

Perfect for a party Dorian is throwing.

A party I should probably have skipped. After all, I am not to trouble Dorian, nor look at him, nor speak his name...
but really. I could not, in good conscience, allow Miao to come unescorted. And besides, half the town is invited, I will probably go unnoticed. I look down at the pale flesh almost glowing through slits and gashes in my dress, legs exposed to the thighs, and I almost laugh aloud. There is no way I will be unnoticed. My mask is elaborate, but it will not conceal my face into obscurity. Besides, my hair usually gives me away. Oh well....

...may as well go in looking the part of fallen angel. Uncaring of who knows who I am, and unabashed in my own beauty. No humility, no shame. Blood red lips and kohl lined eyes only makes me look more stark and hauntingly alluring.

Miao and I enter the opulence arm and arm. I have had tea here before with Alessandra, but I see Dorian has made this party all own. "What shall we do first?" Miao asks excitedly, and I let my gaze wander. "Oh, let us explore, maybe get a drink. Perhaps get an eyeful of the two most beautiful women here." I say, holding my head high and smiling wicked. "Here's to hoping the host doesn't throw me out." I add as we venture forward.

[al-shairan.livejournal.com]

I heard about this party in town, of course. A masquerade - how amusing. I have not attended a masked ball in quite some time. After my evening with Wanda I found I was in a melancholy mood, and so I have determined to indulge my caprice and go to this party. I thought of wearing Svetlana, for the figure of that body is striking and can carry off a costume well, but then I think that perhaps the carnival has been invited, and with a little smile I slip into the Danika form. I cover her face with one of the almost sinister, almost alluring, white masks that people wore in Venice long ago, and I pair it with an ornately pretty dress in the eighteenth century style (http://www.bridalwave.tv/Rosetti.JPG), all flounces and embroidered satin. My blonde hair set in ringlets, I walk up the driveway. This should be an entertaining night.

[damien-dw.livejournal.com]

Excolo is an interesting place. Halloween rolls around and someone is having a really fancy party to celebrate. And a really big party requires a large space and lots of other things servants among them. It sounds like easy enough work and we are to be allowed to enjoy ourselves so long as we are discreet. It's a masquerade so that is easier that it might other wise be. I signed on and am now standing in a room full of colourfully costumed people feeling a little underdressed in my plain black shirt and pants with my little half mask in white. Tied my hair back neatly and left the guitar at home so I at least look somewhat respectable.

I stand near the refreshment table so that if someone wants something I can hand it to them and maybe it'll be okay to sample the snacks when no one's looking?

[tereixa-zann.livejournal.com]

"Maybe I'll put them all together after tonight," I say, going on about the cogs and springs I'm wearing, "and build something to remember the party by. --oh, hey, is that Cain in a dress?" I giggle as catch sight of the red feathers and tassels, and god, those shoulders. "He looks good. Punch? Grapes?" I glance to Gaueko and Mercedes and the girl. "Or some of whatever they call these little cracker things with the food bits on them? Oh, hey, honey," I add to the guy in black with the little white mask. "Having a good time yet?"

[regal-vigilante.livejournal.com]

When I got the invitation, I had no clue what I was going to wear. I did know one thing though- I'd have to dig through the trunks int he back of my closet to find my wig (http://www.buycostumes.com/Godyssey-Short-Black-Wig/18634/ProductDetail.aspx). No way I'd be anonymous at a masque without it.
While I was digging I found an old bodice. Didn't take much to attach the skirt. Not much, but its certainly eye-catching. Found a mask (http://www.fancydress.com/costumes/Pointed-Gold-Domino-Mask-/0~977?PURL=fancydress.at/National&P36=F528XM&CID=0&CTY=10) at the market. Wanted to strap on Boann before I left, but I knew she'd be a dead give-away. Instead I cleaned one of my less-used daggers and strapped it to my thigh. Much less conspicuous.

When I arrive the party's already in swing. Folk glittering and fabric swirling all around. All sorts of shades to be seen. Its a wonderful sight. I smile as I twitch the skirt of my costume (http://www.spookyboutique.com/boutique/details/romangoddess.html) out of my way as I walk across the room and try to hash out who's who.

[harmanhardegree.livejournal.com]

Well, hen't this all a to-do? I were powerful surprised when the invite come down ter us, but I ent going to say no to such. And our Willum will go, and someone ought keep an eye on the lad.

I got myself a rare fine mask, comes right over my head and shoulders. What could be righter for a riverman than ter be a fish (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v733/snakey_critter/salmonofwisdomscreen-capture-8.png?t=1248209093)? And I drapes one of our nets around me shoulders over me shirt and trousers and there we are.

Place is all full o' fine folks having their jollifications, fellows done up all fancy and young wummen in not much of anything at all. Wherever our Willum's got to, I reckon he's garping away like an old fish hisself. I comes in just at the same time as a fine-looking piece.

"Hello, mileardy - how're yew going on tonight?" I makes her a fishy little bow. "Do you come along of me and have yerself a tipple!" I waves my hand towards a table where they's got punch set out.

[marbasthefallen.livejournal.com]

Lucien did not want to attend, not with his two women in attendence and so cross with him.

There was nothing that would keep me from attending. In my human guise, and hidden behind the mask we found at the market this morning, no one would recognize me.

Lucien allows me to have control for the evening, and dressed in a simple suit of golden brown with a black shirt we affix our lion mask and wander over to the party. Just inside the doors I see Wanda and Miao have aready arrived, but I will not trouble them. That was a concession I had to make to Lucien, no trouble tonight. Truly, that was never my intention. I am just happy to have a night where I can walk out in the open....
as it were.

Smiling behind the golden face... I find a glass of wine and a shadowed corner to people watch for the time being.

[parras-siren.livejournal.com]

I don't know why I've been so very down of late. I even thought of not coming along tonight, but then I thought to myself that I might find some business for the 'Boy - and besides, when did I last go to a party?

And dear Dorian had already helped me with my costume, after all. I do notice people are giving me a little space. There's the old-fashioned tragedy mask, of course, but also my long, severely elegant Grecian desk, stark white dipped in red at the hem like a rising bloodstain. And my hands, too, vivid with red dye to the elbows.

I'm cradling the axe Medea used to dismember her brother in the crook of my arm. It's no coincidence that it looks like a smaller version of Marcilla's (http://www.blackphoenixalchemylab.com/carnyzoom-marcilla.html). With the way I've been feeling, it seemed very apt to dress as someone else who'd been a very great fool for love.

There's a lion-faced gentleman, his suit simple but elegant, leaning against a wall and watching the party. "Not mingling, sir?" I say. My voice, automatically flirtatious, is at odds with both my outfit and my mood.

[pirate-mystic.livejournal.com]

Think I'm gonna regret lettin' the girls talk me into this. But then I figure, you can't make a damn fool of yourself at Halloween, ain't any time you can. Only way I stand a chance of folks not recognizin' me soon's they seem me, too.

Got a fancy red mask all feathers (http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1120/562778384_f765387dfc.jpg?v=0), covers most my mouth, an paint tastin' all strange an' thick on my lips. Can't hardly take a proper stride in this damn dress, an I sure glad I put my foot down over them shoes with heels. Figure most'll take me for a feller in a dress with my build, an I smile to myself a bit cause maybe they'll think Cain underneath all this. Tassels swish a bit as I walk, right down past my knees.

I tell you, she see this, Kate gonna damn well near die.

[simon-klavec.livejournal.com]

Couldn't figure quite what to wear come tonight. Thought of a mask and my good suit. Heard more of what the town expects though, so ended up going a bit further. The fake beard itches some, and the wet clothes are chilly. The hardest part was dying myself green. Verite, the girl at the salon, said it would wash right out in a few days. Figure I can work at the farm for a bit until then.

Add a few water-plants to people get it some, and then head over. Getting busy at the house. Can't find host nor hostess to thank them, so I wander. Find myself watching a big person in a feather-mask, ruffled dress. Think it's a woman - men don't quite have the hips, though women don't usually have the shoulders. Not many so dark as that in Excolo. Only two I can think of so muscled, and doubt it's Cain in a dress.

Not hiding who I am, so I walk up. "Evening. Is it rude to guess who's under the mask?" Never really been to one of these, but I think there's different rules in different places.

[valmont-vicomte.livejournal.com]

When I left Versailles, I left most of my clothes behind me, so I did not have as great a choice tonight as I might have liked. But the outfit (http://www.leavemethewhite.com/caps/albums/movies/liaisons/Dangerous_Liaisons_201.jpg) I have chosen was one of my favourites then, and I was glad to find, when I took it out of the tissue paper in which it had been wrapped, that it still fitted perfectly despite the passage of time. I aired it, of course, and ironed out the creases, and putting it on I found my mind flooded with memories of that golden, glittering time. I do not really miss Versailles - it was a place where one had to be constantly alert, constantly on guard - but it was very beautiful, and so elegant. This ensemble is the epitome of that, from the fine lace of my jabot to the gilt-embroidered antique blue velvet of my justaucorps. The strangest thing is wearing a wig again; it has been a long time, and the wig feels a little tight because, of course, my hair is not cropped short to accommodate the wig as it was when I was in Versailles.

The maskmaker in town has been doing brisk business. I bought a gold baroque mask (http://www.magicofvenezia.com/servlet/the-714/Venetian-mask-Colombina-mask/Detail) from her; it's really a work of art, and I think after the party I'll put it on the wall. She had some stunning full-face masks, but I want to be able to kiss my fiancee. Particularly whe she looks as lovely as she does now, I think, turning with a smile to Hermia.

"Ready to go in, ma chérie?" I say. I have decided this evening to let my voice have a lilt of French to it, because the accent I developed in New London is quite particular and will give me away. Of course, in Versailles at court we always spoke French, but that would hardly make for an entertaining party experience tonight...

[chester-excolo.livejournal.com]

Biggest party in Excolo an' it has to be a masquerade ball on Halloween! Everybody has to wear a costume, even me. I kicked up a fuss at first but Now I can admit to myself if not to Hermia that I like the stupid white fluffy wings a bit now that she's enchanted them with the power of flight. An the little helm with it's face mask plus the harness with it's barding style armour is a minature masterpiece. I just think it's kinda silly to put it on a cat.

Took my a while to get the hang of flying in this getup but I practiced in the garden at The Whitchapel right after Hermia fastened all the little buckles for me.

Now, I dip down easy as any bird I ever chased, from where I been circling up above Hermia n' Valmont. Look from one to the other in their fancy getups. With those masks can't hardly tell what expressions on their faces. So I flatten my wings to almost hover for an instant right there at head height to Valmont n' demand, "We goin' in or what?"

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Been a busy week leading up this night, people came in with lots of interesting requests. Good for business it was. Sold several wigs and did a few dye jobs, more for skin than hair. Those were fun! And it'll all wash off in a few days at most. Be amusing to see people the next few days as they try to go about their normal business with blue or green or reddish skin.

I came up with lots of ideas on what to do for a costume but eventually settled on warrior maiden. It's a good excuse to wear leather and means I do a few things I ain't had a chance to try.

My outfit consists mostly of leather; boots pants and a bustier type top with an arms and shoulder piece over it. Covers my arms right down to the wrists. Don't want anyone to recognize my tattoos. To further throw them off I painted swirly celtic spirals on my face and the backs of my hands.

I bleached my hair so that it's kinda a golden blondeish colour an sticks out form under my helmet mask. it's leather too a custom design from the mask maker. Looks a bit like a roman design but modified to have that opening for my hair. Glad the hair ain't longer or it'd be harder to make it do what I want which is stick up from the helmet. Granted the gel helps but gravity plus length usually wins.

Got a sword too at my side, but it's only painted wood from the wood worker's place. Looks real good and has a separate sheath of leather.

My neck feels bare without my usual necklace but again I can't make it too easy for folks to recognize me.


I stride up the drive way towards the party trying to be as bold as My costume dictates. hope this party is less tense than the last one.

[steampunkvic.livejournal.com]

I wear a fiarly simple silver dress (http://photos.upi.com/topics-LITTLE-BLACK-BOOK-PREMIERE/e7e42eed225d4fc23cb8b2d2a7fc616f/K-1.jpg, http://images.starpulse.com/Photos/pv/Julianne%20Nicholson-1.JPG) and a simple mask that I have customised myself by carefully cutting up and gluing pieces of old cicuit boards and motherboards to it. I spot a sexy-looking warrioress, all leather and celtic tattoos and wave hello.

[hopeorfaith.livejournal.com]

Don' really know 'ow to think or feel right now. Faith 'n I jus' sort o'ran around, giddy-mad, fer a while outside, afore we could calm ourselves enough t'walk over 'ere. Want ter shout an' chatter, but we know we can't. Least we can still think to each other. Think I'd go a bit mad if I couldn't 'ear Faith's thoughts an' she mine, cos we're both burstin' t'talk 'bout 'ow we're feelin'. Find though if she moves a few feet from me it's like she's whisperin'. It's - strange ain't a good enough word, fer what it's like, knowin' she can move 'way from me, and me 'er. Don't know 'ow t'put it.

Management's given us matchin' outfits (http://concierge.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/2007/06/04/carnevale_in_venice_italy.jpg), though mine's gold an' Faith's is silver. Beautiful gowns, all 'eavy fabric an' puffy sleeves, like a princess would wear. My bodice is covered in gold beads an' pearls, an' Faith's got silver trim and crystals. Beautiful masks 'n all, an' our 'air piled up an' twisted into tiaras. Makes me think o' th' story o' Catskin, 'ow she goes to th'ball th'first night in a dress o'silver cloth, an' then th'second night in a cloth o'gold, afore th'third night where she's wearin' a coat o'feathers. An' the prince falls in love with 'er, an' she don't 'ave to be a kitchen girl no more. That ain't 'ow this story's goin' ter work, though. But tonight'll be enough, I think. More than we ever expected, any'ow.

Get to the gate. Loads o'people wanderin' in an' out. 'Old onter Faith's 'and, cos it feels weird t'not be touchin' 'er. Not used t' 'avin' me own two arms t'use, both workin' jus' fine. Some'ow even stranger'n standin' on me own two legs.

You ready? I think t'Faith. She nods quick-like. You scared? I ask, an' she snorts and thinks am I fuck!, but I think she is a bit, so I squeeze 'er 'and an' she squeezes mine back. An' then we go inside, an' oh, it's really like we're in a fairytale, 'onest an' true, all these folk dancin' an' walkin' 'bout in sparkles an' furs an' bright colours. Ain't never seen nothin' so pretty, I don' think. Faith grins at me, an' 'oldin' 'ands we start walking around.

[edmund-white.livejournal.com]

A terrible thing has happened to me. My mother has taken an interest in my love-life.
Or rather my lack of it.
A week or two after the election she started dropping little hints. I didn't really think about it though. Kinda laughed at them. Wasn't until this morning when she showed up with a costume and mask for me that I realized she'd been utterly serious,and the conversation plays over in my head again as I walk up the drive, "Edmund, you are going to that party."
"Ma, I wasn't really planning on go-" "I'm an old woman Edmund. I want my grandchildren while I still know who they are."
I didn't really know what to say to that, so I took the costume (http://images.buycostumes.com/mgen/merchandiser/33773.jpg) and promised to go. Arguing with my mother never works. Never has, and probably never will.

I come in behind two blondes who clutch each others hands tightly. Like they're really nervous. I can't blame them, since I know I am a bit. Part of me wonders if Verdandi is here. Haven't seen her in months it feels like. Never got up the courage to go see her again, especially after that dream. That brings my mind back to the dark haired woman. I know I've seen her again. It can't have just been my mind playing tricks. Its just that whenever I get close, she's just slipped away again.

Shake that off and touch my mask to make sure its on straight, then move along side the ladies, "Good evening dear ladies," drop a little bow to go with the outfit, "Would it be too forward to ask if one of you would do me the honor of a dance later? Or perhaps both of you? You look so lovely I'd be a fool to pass by without asking."
Something about tonight makes me feel a bit bolder. Must be the mask.

[benedict-donner.livejournal.com]

A party. A masquerade. I love parties, I do, and so rarely do I get to attend. And it's in town, far from the Carnival. There will be dark streets and dark rooms and if I can't get a meal I might at least care for other needs.

The house is large and well-appointed, and it seem much of the town has attended. I lose myself in the crowd for a while, avoiding alcohol as I want those I meet to be drunk, not I. There is some fresh meat on the tables, which I eat, and there is fresher walking and talking and dancing, but now is not the time.

Wolves, witches, warriors, and all sorts are milling about and I smile under my button mask, leaving the rope tossed jauntily over one shoulder. I love parties.

[glass-beddau.livejournal.com]

Oh, that's something that's a bit of a twist to it, from the silk and shine I've been seeing so far. "Evening, bwbach," I drawl, stretching past him and catching up a slice of apple from the table. "Fair t'see one dressed with a little horror t'them. 've you a story t'go with it, or a name?"

[verite-belrose.livejournal.com]

Get into the house and oh my this is one flash place as Faith'd say. any bigger and I'd swear it was a castle. an' there's so many people in glittering costumes some of which don't cover much...

There's food and drink and music I follow that til I come to the edge of the dancefloor. A waltz. Well I ain't got no one to dance with so that can wait. Instead I drift around a bit trying find even one person I know... Or might think I know.

another idea comes to me as I see a stair case goin' up. This's a huge house and I ain't seen more than two rooms an'a hallway. Prolly ain't never gonna see another house this fine. So I start climbing the stairs, might as well go exploring afore there's too many people.

[dorian-excolo.livejournal.com]

Soft music and tinkling laughter drifts up as I leave Alessandra's room, locking the door behind me. It seems as though the party is moving right on schedule. The punch should be working its way through more than a few heated bodies and time will do the rest. Time and a few well-placed adjustments to the surroundings. But that is for later. Now I move over to slip the spare key under the door as asked - more than kind of her to let me use the room - and then stop.

Well, she does have a key of her own. And should I find myself lacking for company once the masquerade winds down, there's no reason to sleep alone. A warm bed is always preferable, yes? I put the key in my pocket with a smile and turn towards the stairs.

The soft sound of footsteps on carpet gives me pause. It is still a tad early for guests to be finding their way to rooms, unless I've severely misjudged the strength of the punch, and I can't imagine Glass to try to sneak back up so soon. I ease around the corner towards the guest suite just in time to see a woman, tight leather and smooth skin, step onto the landing. Alone.

Oh, how nice. I'll have to get to the party eventually, but there's nothing to say I can't greet my guests one at a time. I slide past as she moves further into the hallway, coming to rest just behind her. "Well, hello there," I purr, leaning against the railing and effectively placing myself in the way of the stairs. "Lost your way? Or is the party just that boring..."

[jack-hollow.livejournal.com]

Always did like this particular holiday, I confess. Know it's a time things can get right dangerous. But at least half of everything people do these nights is what I do. Turn up the lights. Make noise. Dress up and turn the monsters into somethin' that keeps away, and then the night rolls over it's All Saint's Day.

All Hallows Eve ain't bad, it's just... a kind of home stretch. And tonight's gonna be a wild one.

I figured I'd drop in at the party, make the inside of the house part a' my rounds. Everyone got invited, and I ain't gonna be shutting anything down, just making sure no-one starts mistakin' bystanders for participants in anything. So I headed down the street all unfolded in my new canvas and straw, candle burning through pumpkin eyes, and if I hadn't had the address I still coulda found the place with my eyes shut.

Nodded my hellos to a Ceasar taller'n anyone in town 'cept me and headed on in, and Christ the Carpenter this place puts the 'Boy to shame. Half the people in here aren't dressed an' I can't see anyone's faces, but at least it ain't lookin' like anyone's doin' anything I'd need to arrest them for anyway.

[hermia-sophia.livejournal.com]

I rush through the crowd, desperately trying to keep my crinoline hemmed in so that it won't bump into people. "Pardon me - sorry - pardon me - "

Of course it would be tonight - jack-o-lanterns, pumpkins, the boundaries between this world and the next growing thin. A good night for magic, with all of the lines of Power strengthening...

...and the one night that he can show his true face to the world.

If I could stop for long enough to concentrate I could feel the threads of Power; I know I could! All of that harp-string strumming sensation that I've been feeling for days - it must have been the spell!

I come out near the door, breaking into an open space - dear gods, it's hot in here with this gown on! Perhaps I shouldn't have been running...

I can't even speak his real name, or mine, but I can hope that he'll recognize my voice when I put my hand on Jack's hay-crinkling arm and say, breathless and shaky but smiling, "It's good to see you."

[hopeorfaith.livejournal.com]

I go off to th'refreshment table an' get a glass o'punch, an' th'pirate does too. I take a big sip, an' ooh, that's nice. I turn round so I can keep an eye on Hope, cos I'll admit it feels bloody strange t'not be over there wi' 'er. The pirate downs 'is whole glass at once, an' 'is cheeks flush up.

"Sure you won't tell me your name, pretty lady?" he asks, and I shake me 'ead an' smile up at 'im.

"That's alright, I like quiet girls," 'e says, an' grabs me round th'waist an' kisses me! Well, 'e could've tried a bit 'arder before lungin', but to be honest, I'm on borrowed time this ev'ning so I kiss 'im back enthusiastic like.

"Maybe I'll show you my cutlass later," 'e says, all unsteady, an' I wish I could say that I can feel it already, but then a short woman dressed as a clown storms up an' says "Ricky, what are you doing?!" an' grabs 'is arm an' pulls 'im away. Grin an' wave as Ricky th' pirate slinks off wi' 'is girlfriend. Never mind, eh? Plenty more fish in th'sea. Literally, I think, seein' a fishman talkin' to one o'th' best lookin' birds I've seen, all black 'air an' loads of pale skin exposed. Very nice. I take another swallow o'punch an' smile, watchin' Hope turn round on th'dancefloor wi' the knight, an' they do make a pretty pair.

[shards-of-alice.livejournal.com]

So many lights, so many people, all dancing together until you can't tell one from the next, like a Christmas tree twirling and twirling but all the ornaments are voices and it's a blur.

It's a little scary, walking up that big drive to that big house, and I want to go back once we hit the door, but I don't. The big man is here with me, big doggie fur thick and warm under my fingers as we walk in, and I think it's okay. I'm not so scared, him being here with me.

My eyes go wide, because there is so much to see I don't think I could ever see it all in one night, and I squirm a little bit, nervous. "No one's wearing hardly anything, Mr. Doggie," I comment with a little giggle. "And the whole world's gone red, no other colors shining bright at all." I don't what red means, mind you, but it's all I can see just now. "Matches my cape!"

I look over to the big doggie man, still up when he's on four legs instead of two, and grin. "There is a table. And there is cake on it. I think... I think we should go look and see... The cake."

[gaueko-erebus.livejournal.com]

She keeps her little hand on my back, bunched in my thick fur, all the way down the street, up the wide, cobbled drive, and to the door. There's a moment of hesitation at the door proper, but her fingers tighten and then we go in.

Oh, quite the spectacle. Glittering costumes and brilliant colours, the smells of food and wine and sex and opium. I catch the scent of one of my Verdandi's brews...in the punch bowl, perhaps?...and it reeks of sex-musk. And it certainly seems to be having an effect on folks. Even the little ninia notices, "No one's wearing hardly anything, Mr. Doggie. And the whole world's gone red, no other colors shining bright at all." she says, and laughs, "Matches my cape!"

My tail waves. I wonder if anyone recognizes the irony of me being in the form of a dog traditionally used to hunt wolves rather than that of a wolf proper...but no matter. I'm large enough and black enough that it shouldn't be hard to grasp. My body thrums, my mind already prickling with a sensation akin to that of alcohol. Despite the light and the colours and the brilliance, this here is one of the night's truest aspects; the hidden face, the actions never to be spoken of again, the dancing, the sex, the music. Oh, I am so very glad we came.

The ninia tugs my fur, "There is a table. And there is cake on it. I think... I think we should go look and see... The cake."

Cake it is, then. And when she offers me some, I take it from her fingers, gentle as any housepet. I even lick them clean.

[leah-pontarlier.livejournal.com]

I hope I am not too late. Karina wasn't feeling well so I almost didn't come but she didn't want my evening to be spoilt just because she wasn't feeling well. Maryk of course is staying with her, now that he's seen me to the door. He said to get someone to see me home after. I hope Karina feels better tomorrow. I feel kinda nervous being here all on my own. The house is the biggest I have ever seen and it is way fancier than Valmont and Hermia's! There are people everywhere and many of them aren't wearing very much. Everyone has a mask on. I do too. It is very pretty. I also have a very nice dress on and my hair is all down with a little wreath of flowers made of nice slippery stuff.

I can't just stand here staring so I move farther in. I don't know why this party is happening or the rules that go with it. Like why I'm not supposed to give anyone my name or use theirs even if I do know it. I also don't get why some people look like they have animal heads. I head for the food because at least the rules for that haven't changed. Humans make so many things complicated.

[hopeorfaith.livejournal.com]

Hope kissed a bloke! She kissed 'im right out there on th'dancefloor! Oh, I'm so 'appy I could, I dunno what. Shout an' spin round or somethin'. Instead I drink a bit more punch, feelin' meself get all flushed. Dunno what spirits is in it, but they must be pretty spicy. Feel a bit of a down-low tickle, not that it takes much to get me motor revving really, but it does make me look round, wonder if there's anyone as would fancy a quick romp t'night. Only got a couple of hours left, an' I want ter make th' most of 'em.

I go t'get another drink, an' bump inter a pretty girl wi' long, long blonde 'air. Give 'er a little curtsey since I can't say sorry.

[parras-siren.livejournal.com]

"I thought we could wander, Terrible Lady. I am quite delighted by all the costumes and I would like to see a few more. Care to join me?"

I incline my head a little and take his proffered arm. "Some of them are rather splendid, aren't they?" The people of Excolo seem to have gone to town tonight. I wonder if any of my old colleagues from the Carnival are here, mingling with the townsfolk. I saw Miao earlier in her dancer's outfit, and Vale in not very much at all, but I don't see either of them now.

--now there's another girl wearing very little, besides feathers and a sharp expression, and I sniff. "Although some people seem to have had other things on their mind than...aesthetics...in their choice of costume." I know I've said it loud enough for her to hear, but I don't care. Really, what's the point of wearing something as well-made as that looks to be if the overall effect is cheap?

[glass-beddau.livejournal.com]

Thinking pomegranates would be particular suited to the night, but failing that there's berry tartlets, sweet cool juice and the wet burst under teeth, and I'm strolling downtable when someone sniffs sharp as fingernail torn from flesh aside me. "Although some people seem to have had other things on their mind than...aesthetics...in their choice of costume."

Turn to catch sight of the speaker, blood on hem and blood on hands, and I'm smiling. "And yours so tasteful," I say mildly. "Fine t'see someone with some appreciation of the night, but... it's aesthetics that has you claiming all the attention of blood with none of the effort, then? Confess I'd find it a touch flat." I reach out and run one finger over the blade of the weapon she's carrying, crook of her free arm. "Where did you find such an old battleaxe?" I add brightly, looking between her and the lion whose arm she's taken.

[kateohara.livejournal.com]

"So long as he dunt regret dressin' like the hound-god, I think he'll be fine."

"That's who he is?" I say, and frown a bit. "It's not a good idea to call on him, even in fun, I don't think..." But I'm distracted by Tess kissing my ear.

"We could go explore upstairs - it might be a bit less crowded, and I wouldn't mind a bit 'a privacy."

I feel my colour coming up at that, but I also feel warm in a different sort of way. I wonder if guests are allowed upstairs... I glance around and see a few people walking up and down the staircase, so I suppose it must be alright. And it would be nice to have somewhere quiet to - well, to be held by Tess and to kiss her again.

"Alright," I say, and I set down my cup and we walk away and up the stairs. A few people go by, but they turn right and head along the corridor.

"Um, here?" I say, opening a door on the left and giggling a little at what we're doing. I feel like we're badly behaved schoolchildren.

[tess-thiess.livejournal.com]

She frowns at learnin' what the boy's costume is, but she gets distracted 'n flushed. "Alright," she says, and my heart beats faster at her agreement. We pass some folks, but there's lots fewer up here. Kate opens a room and peers inside with a stifled giggle.

"This looks good," I say, lookin' past her. There's no-one here and we can lock the door from the inside if we want a bit more privacy. I pull us in and kiss her soon as the door's closed, leanin' 'gainst it and drawin' close.

[john-thiess.livejournal.com]

She smiles at me, her head still bent down. "Do you want some punch? We could get our own. Or if you'd rather keep dancing we could do that." She pauses fer a second, her eyes flickin' over my mask and the room. "Or we could go somewhere and talk," she adds, noddin' t'the back 'a the house.

I nod abruptly, then again more smooth. "Yeah, sure." It's gettin' bleedin' hot in here and some air 'd be nice. "I'd like that."

We make our way back through the crowds. There's a man all in red with a skull, and he has that grey smooth cold scent I remember from seein' him with Glass, and he's with a girl who reminds me 'a the posters in 'Ri's - I freeze fer a sec at the phantom girl's side 'cause it is 'Ri with him, hot red smell on her and him with the darker grave scent 'a Glass, and I curse under my mask, my glare unseen. Fine then, and I slip my arm 'round the phantom girl's waist, more sure now.

[damien-dw.livejournal.com]

He nods quickly, sharply and then again but less abrupt. Yeah, sure.I'd like that." I grin and we head towards the porch.

We move through the crowd til he freezes at something. I can hear him mutter something but it's too low to make out. Probably didn't want me hearing it. His arm slide firmly round my waist and I smile. Feels good there. The party is starting to feel like a dream. I realize it isn't, when the crowd fails to vanish because I will it. And the door out takes forever to reach but reach it we do.

Out on the porch it is cooler and there are less people. A lot less people. I breathe a sigh or relief and head for a nice empty spot at the railing.

[glass-beddau.livejournal.com]

Step and away from Dorian and the woman, and that creeping edge is coming back near immediate, slow bite and long scratch waiting to be laid on bone and the dancing dead, all the shadows of the night. A river agent presumed t'lay a hand on me, not so far on my back from where the memory of Dorian's glove was still warm, and I smiled and kissed him before I put my heel nearly through his foot, left him trying not to yowl and myself laughing.

Could damn near drink the air, music and laughter and the salt taste of skin in it, a carnal sea. Near to drowning in it, and the crowd of the shuffling dead's around, no skin worth laying a hand to save my stormcrow or my statue and the game keeping me from that, and my fingers and teeth are itching with frustration, the heat of the air one long slow tease of blood against them. Head for the stairs, laughing low and quiet still, trying for a little clarity or maybe someone worth playing with and not finding a thing, slick railings and carpets soft as fresh-turned earth and I'd take my shoes off if it weren't for the quiet pleasure of the way the heels bite under my weight. There's a smell in the air, low and golden and rich, and I remember offertory candles, smoke, corpsewax.

Let out a low contented purr as I open the door to dimness and smoke, edges of the room buried under drifts of pillows. The frustration's not pleasing me, the being balked, and if this'll take the edge from it...

The pipe's coiling a fine skein of smoke into the air, and I bend down and breathe in laughing, catch it up and drop myself down on one of the drifts of pillows to take a proper drag, slow warmth spreading through me. Glance over t'the pair who had it to hand, and grin. "Black doves," I say, my voice a little rough from the smoke, gesturing with the pipe afore handing it back. "Such fine provisions..." The slackness is beginning to ease through me, and my hands curl once, but relax afore I can imagine skin under them too well.

[mistresswanda.livejournal.com]

Miao and I spend some time... or it could have only been a few minutes...
damned if I know... passing the pipe back and forth. After my first mishap, I have seem to have gotten the hang of this and I am no longer choking on every pull.

I can't seem to move very much, I should remove the wings lest I crush them, but these pillows are so damn comfortable, and it is so warm in here...

The door opens and a woman joins us. I sit up a bit, or try to. She is really striking, all lean limbs and feathers covering what needs to be covered. She seems jovial, and is laughing as she inhales the smoke in the room. After setting herself down, she takes up the set and take a hit as well. "Such fine provisions..." She says, and I note her beginning to relax.

"Truly, had I known how fine a pursuit this could be, I would have added this to my list of sins ages ago." I sigh, wiping a bit of sweat from my cleavage. "Enjoying the masque, Madame Peacock?"

[hopeorfaith.livejournal.com]

Wander on downstairs. Blimey, it ain't 'alf 'ot. Fan meself with me 'and as I walk round. 'Ave another glass o'punch, an' ooh, love this stuff. Startin' to wonder if it's quite right, cos me nether regions are warm as can be an' I've definitely got an itch I could scratch, but not in public. Prob'ly. Do a bit o'dancin'. Feel a bit of a twinge when I can't see Hope. So strange not to be able t'feel 'er. Think really 'ard an' then I can 'ear jus' a faint whisper of me name an' nothin' else. But she's around and I s'pose she's alright. So that's good.

End up dancin' with what I s'pose is meant t'be an' highwayman by 'is costume. But 'e's lost 'is 'at an' 'is shirt is unbuttoned down th' front. Not that I'm complainin', seein' 'is chest gleam wi' sweat... End up dancin' closer. Presses me up against 'im, an' 'e's got a devilish smile an' 'is dark 'air's matted down wi' sweat, an' ooh, I think this one could do me right. An' judgin' by what I can feel, 'e thinks so too. If I was talkin' I'd ask 'im about th'pistol in 'is pocket, but instead I jus' grab 'is 'and an' we go off fer a walk. 'E tries t'get me t'talk, but I jus' shake me 'ead an' smile, an' 'e gives me a gleamin' sort o' cat's smile back. Feel meself get damp at that. 'E pulls me into a room - turns out t'be th' dinin' room.

"Now I've dragged you away from the safety of good society, miss, I can rob you," he says, givin' me a slow smile an' pullin' th' pistol from 'is belt. "Stand and deliver." I make a shocked face, an' then demurely start to unlace me gown. Reckon I'm movin' a bit slow fer 'im, cos after a minute 'e grabs me an' lifts me up onto th' dinin' table... An' I ain't mindin' that at all.

It's fast, an' the table underneath me's 'ard so it ain't comfortable, but oh it ain't 'alf nice t'do. 'Specially since I can move about a lot more like this, even with me skirts up round me waist. I come wi' a shriek. 'E pulls out an' comes on th'tablecloth. "Didn't want you getting an unwanted surprise," he says. What a gent. Lies down next to me on the table. Already got that sleepy look; reckon th'sex an' the booze 'ave done 'im in. "Not so silent after all," 'e says in my ear, an' I giggle, an' in a minute 'e's asleep. Think fer a sec, then pull up 'is mask. Good lookin' bloke, strong bones an' full lips above th'stubble (http://community.livejournal.com/excolo_ooc/371267.html). I drop a kiss on 'is 'ollow cheekbone, an' I wipe meself off wi' me knickerrs an' drop them next to 'im. Ain't like I'll wear 'em again, they'll be th' wrong size, an' it's sort o'like a dirty Cinderella, ain't it?

Shit, that reminds me, what's th'time? Quickly do up me bodice an' 'ead out, lookin' fer Hope. Ain't got much time t'get 'ome.

[hopeorfaith.livejournal.com]

Felt so light on me feet, earlier, but now they're draggin' like lead, an' I feel a phantom sort o'ache in me 'ips. Wonder if it's cos I'm sad, or if it's a sign th'magic's beginnin' to wear off.

Find Faith, who's all swollen-lipped an' smilin', an' she chatters on t'me 'bout some 'ighwayman she found, but I'm not much in th' mood t'listen.

You alright, luvvie? Your knight, 'e di'n't 'urt you or nothin'? she thinks at last.

Nah, nothin' that. Opposite, in fact...

She takes in me face a bit, then squeezes me 'ard.

Time t'go, I s'pose.

I take 'er 'and, an' we walk out o'the 'ouse. Take one last look at th'glitterin' lights, then turn to th'dark.

[iago-excolo.livejournal.com]

After leaving Hermia and her companion, I glance back and catch both headed towards the young miss. They're going to have their hands full with that one, and I don't mean the girl. Not envying the situation, I again make my way through the crowd as I head for the stairs. I'm quite proud of my restraint, only pinching four or five sexy party-goers along the way, instead of the one I just left. There should be a reward for that, truly. Milady Glass. Yes, she'll be the perfect prize, my delicious wife, and there's a spring to my step as I continue on.

Ascending the stairway, I spy a flash of red cloth discarded to the side and grin. Dorian's costume is red. Perhaps this is a clue? Lifting the cloth, my grin widens as I gleefully note that it is indeed his cape. Would my love be hiding with him? I've seen him but once this evening and were I not already on my third house tour, I'd guess 'no'. He knew I'd watch him, hoping Glass would be nearby but I can't seem to find either of them now.

Making a small noise of annoyance, I keep close to the wall, blatantly eavesdropping at each door before continuing on. One door opens and there's a feminine gasp before I'm snatched at and unexpectedly dragged inside.

Not five minutes later, I'm rushing back out, struggling as the blonde firefly from Hell turns red eyes upon me and tugs back with a surprising show of strength, "Don't you want to kiss me?" She's got my sleeve and I shift and turn, tearing my shirt as I leave her with nothing but my long coat in her grip. Moving back another step and then two, I say firmly, "No, firefly, I'm quite married." I'd reclaim my coat but doing so would put my right back in her arms' reach. Truly, she can keep it. "I'm leaving now so don't follow me." She mutters, no longer sweet and charming as she throws the coat at me and slams the door. Safe at last.

I'm about to head back downstairs when I see another pool of red around the corner. Picking it up, I turn it over. Dorian's shirt then, and I catch the hints of opium smoke in the hallway. Why didn't I think of coming here sooner? Ah yes, Angel and Siren were there but as I mull it over, I decide that, yes, it would be a good place to hide.

Closing the door behind me, I'm immediately enveloped in clouds of smoke as I attempt to puzzle out the scene before me. Soft moans and giggles rise from the mass of glistening limbs and torn fabric. And feathers... there are feathers everywhere! Stepping closer, I almost groan as I watch the three (four?) bodies writhing on the pillows as a pair of boots poke out from under the women. I'd know those polished, expensive boots anywhere. Dorian. Now where is my love?

Seeking the woman in colorful feathers, I pull her from the group and into my tight embrace as I chuckle and ignore her protests. Staring into her eyes, I find what I'm looking for, (gleaming eyes) and I press my mouth roughly to hers. I'm doing my best to not grind against her but my joy at finding her has settled itself firmly in my cock and it wants to more than a random rub or two.

I taste deeply of her, fulfilling Dorian's condition before pulling back and laughing, "I found you, my elusive love." I glance at the human mass and ask, lust and heat clear in my voice, "Not hiding, were you, love? Not well at least. For that, you should've been at the bottom of that pile instead."

[lei-miao-shan.livejournal.com]

The silver girl, the girl with flowers in her hair, stops me as I start to leave. "Um...Can I ask you a question before you go?"

"Of course," I start to say, but then Dorian's voice stops me. He calls to me in Mandarin, somewhat haltingly, but oh, how it makes me smile. "Wù líkāi. Nín yāo zhù wǒ yīgè shēngrìkuàilè,"

"Don't go. You have to wish me happy birthday."

Oh, Dorian. And right on the heels of that is Wanda, stretching her hand out to me. "Don't leave, dearest one." she pleads.

....well. If I have been invited to stay...

I touch the silver girl's arm in apology, and then the Raven king has come in and pulled Glass away (Iago for certain, and I am glad they have found each other). This leaves the way open for me to settle in beside Dorian, since he already has another on his lap. I slide my arms around him and I kiss his cheek. "shēng rì kuài lè, de nán rén piào liang" I say to him smiling, "Nǐ xiǎng shén me ne ní?"