The one About the Heart's Tidings Ball at Longtail Manor - RPLOG
Participants
Date
15/2/480
Log
It's early in the evening, and the sun is just barely setting over the castle district, basking the whole place in a red glow. The torches set beside the pathway from the gates to the manor iluminating the walk the whole way, it appears there are already various beings from many different stations in life, each of them moving past the checkpoint at the gate. From nobles wearing exquisite dresses and fine suits to commoners wearing what can only be assumed to be their nicest garb, cleaned especially for the occasion.
The guards currently stationed there are a mixed group of different beings. One lion, one wolf, and a rather short, white-furred ferret, each of them making sure no being slips past without giving up any potential weapons, and leaving their name. Everything seems to be running reasonably smoothly, at the very least.
Even canes are taken to be inspected for weaponry, and any potential sword-canes are graciously replaced with with a simple, decent walking-cane.
Against her best judgement, Cirrus decided to show up to the ball, trading out her normal shorts and tunic for a rather plain, slim dress, coloured a modest shade of gray, hiding bare feet under the fabric. She'd be damned if she was going to wear a pair of heels, no matter how classy the event. And, entering the hall, she looked about -- so much for fashionably late.
Her fur was, remarkably, clean, and, against her better than best judgement, she left the majority of her weapons at home. Sure, there was a small holdout dagger she surrendered willingly to the guards, but it was less than she'd normally cart about. She takes in the space, looking about curiously at the massive hall, a raised eyebrow. She'd make a comment on the spoiledness of her cousin, but, wow.
Bazalt wanders in, wearing his yellow shirt and grey, cloth pants, appanrelty chosen not to wear his leather ones tonight-The shadow does seem to be out of placehowever-due to not having been to many balls or parties, atleast this one didnt have a pool for him to fall into however, once he spots the food however he quickly heads over to it, debating what to try first...
Reginald , dressed in rather smart, if plain, attire, and deliberately lacking certain trimmings the upper class would choose to adorn themselves with, makes his way into Manor. Having deposited his sword with the guards, the lynx can't help but look a little strange to those that know him, that certain piece of equipment almost never leaving his side. But, hopefully, there'd be no need for it tonight, these surroundings a refreshing change from the rather unpredictable surrounding he's usually accustomed to. Taking in the numerous ornaments upon the walls as he passes, the lynx can't help but smile just a little at the number of feline faces held in high regard. Spotting a familiar wolf further in, he makes his way in the canine's direction.
Fenris arrives with two other beings, one is a black fox dressed tastefully in a simple, but well made, dark suit, and the other is a huge, snow white lion dressed in a crisp, white suit. Both of them in the fashionable creator style. The tiger between them becomes a surprising splash of color in comparison.
"Always a pleasure to see you, Sirus," Hugo, the lion says to the fox, revealing just a touch of northern accent, "It is so rare to see you attending a courtly function. And this must be your new protege? You always did like them large."
The fox, who must be Sirus smiles at the lion as both of them present their equally lovely canes for the servants to inspect, though neither claims to carry a weapon and both retrieve their canes. "No need to be petty Mister Snowmane," he says with a smile, "This is Highlady Flora's night, no reason to bring up old greivances."
Fenris, caught between the two gentlemen does his best to maintain an air of stoic acceptance. He looks rather out of place between the two immaculate suits in his tight, Creator jumpsuit. Unlike most suits in the style, is has no sleeves, leaving his muscled arms and their unusual heart motif stripes exposed for all to see.
A little further back, out of sight of Sirus, Fenris and Hugo, Katrina is approaching. She's wearing the sleek, silken dress she's worn before, complete with the white linen underdress. She's foregone her usual decorated cane in favour of something far simpler, if still rather extravagant. A large sapphire inset in the knob, she carries the decorated walking-aid more for show than anything else. Her usual silver mask replaced by a shining, golden one, she simply gestures for her plus one, Terry, to give up his weapons and head into the manor with her. "Come, Terry. Best not keep the parting waiting, shall we?"
Galve stops at the door, wearing a not shabby but regular overcoat and neat undershirt, nothing posh or exciting but marginally fancy enough for an occasion such as this one. He checks his weapons, a simple dueling pistol and a long knife, in at the door and makes his way inside, tugging at the collar of his dress shirt a little. He was unfortunately here by himself, and was a little confused as to why he even decided to come, but he was sure to enjoy himself just as much as an of the other paired members.
Terry steps into the room after waiting patiently in queue. He looks up to the panthress at his side, smiling up at her as they near the front of the queue. He's dressed very finely, in a smartly cut tailcoat with matching navy-blue trousers and brown leather shoes. "Yes m'aam." He answers to the panthress, before surrendering his dagger at the door as instructed, and making sure to smile politely at the servant there. He stops after walking a few steps into the grand hall, his gaze panning slowly around as he takes in the immediate area, trying to identify any guests he might know. He turns to the side to look at Katrina, and dutifully paces over to her side once more.
Angus pats Kalt's hand as they wait in line to enter the ball, smiling a bit. "Hey, it's okay. We've got a sitter for the night, we won't be coming home to a mess I promise." He reassures her for the third time in a row. For once the pair was presentable, Kalt actually wearing a dress without having had killed someone to force her into it. The cut was long, kept simple but elegant in a deep sea blue. Which went well with her Husbands attire, even if his was a little more eye catching. The Fox himself was wearing for once something other then his military uniform. The hint of Silk can be seen under the cut of his jacket, the same color as Kalt's dress, and no one could mistake the saber sitting at his hip. When the guards would approach them he'd hold up a hand, presenting it to one of the guardsman. "Afraid I won't be causing any trouble with this thing tonight, it's ceremonail. Can't pull the blade." He mentions, grabbing the grip and pulling to show he's speaking the truth. When they finally let him in he smiles, looking around to see what's going on for a few moments before walking further into the crowd.
As the various beings make their way into the manor, they're greeted with the sights, and smells, of a well-decked buffet, readily enjoyed by commoner and Noble alike. Although some of the more stuffy Nobles are perhaps a bit taken aback at having to share the same food and drinks.
It does seem like the Lady hasn't spared a lot of expense in throwing this party, at the very least. Slowly but surely, beings would drift towards the ballroom itself, where a small group of musicians is playing a slow, classical piece.
The large clock is one of the first sights for many, and some of the more poorer beings seem rather in awe at the machine, while the Nobles seem more interested in the portraits and the ballroom at large.
Finally, on a slightly elevated pedestal, there's a quartet of beings. High Lady Longtail, dressed in her silken gown, red and white of shralestan design... One black-furred tomcat standing besides her with his hand on her shoulder. Her lifebond, Matthews Longtail.
A little behind them to the right, two birds are observing the crowd, smiling lightly. Trace and Sveta Blackwing-Longtail. Each of the four is simply observing the crowd and keeping an eye on things for the time being, as people slowly make their way into the room.
Among the beings drifing in, there's Katrina, flanked by Terry, as she observes the various Nobles and commoners, and lets her eye wander around the room.
And then, when a good amount of beings have properly entered, Flora steps forward with a smile. "Welcome to the new ballroom of Longtail Manor, yes. What better time to open its doors than Heart's Tidings. That said... Let the ball begin, yes," she offers, gesturing to the musicians, whom start turning their music into a slow, steady waltz. And soon enough, Matthews guides Flora onto the dance-floor, followed by Trace and Sveta.
Cirrus lingered around the edges of the room, looking about shiftily, eying the new people entering warily. She was way out of her element, here, and that only made her defensive. So, the cat walked, occasionally taking a bit of food or swiping a glass of something alcoholic when she could find it, but not taking too much as to be seen as raiding the buffet. It's a careful balance! One she wouldn't normally care for, but there was an awful large amount of people here. And, when the music starts, she does the same thing -- linger around the edges and hope she doesn't have to rebuke someone for the whole dancing thing.
Bazalt ears flick-partly listning to the cat as she talk-right now the food has his attention. The wolf was trying a bit of each, tail flicking in some from of Enjoyment, trust the wolf to go to a social outing and be captivated by the food...Atleast Zuri would be proud.
Nicolau entered with a surprisingly small amount of protest from the guards, having been slowed for a thorough search due to his perhaps unsavory reputation, though the man appears to have come unarmed. He had even dressed a little better than usual, with a finer, gold-trimmed blue vest, and a neat little bowtie on his neck. And, having arrived late, he hurries his way over to the buffet before too much goes missing, spotting a pretty snow-cat in the process. He strolls up behind her and finally gulps down the feast he had stuffed away from the buffet, gently tapping Cirrus' shoulder. "And here I thought I wouldn't see you? Ah, the things we do for family," he teases, with a smile. "Where's your date? Such a shame to be wasting time," he notes, pointing to her bare feet. "You've even put on your dancing shoes."
Reginald pauses for a few moments to take in the regal scene, both in awe of the sheer scale of the event, and also just a little unsettled by it's extravagance. However, vowing to enjoy himself, the lynx restarts his progress in the direction of a familiar looking wolf. Moving quietly up behind him, he reaches out, resting his hands on both of the canine's arms, as he whispers softly. ".. I don't suppose I could interest you in a dance?"
Fenris takes the first opportunity to slip away from his black and white escort, leaving the two of them at the portrait of Alessa Longtail, having polite conversation full of innuendo and disguised barbs that he is sure he will hear all about later. As a pretence to escape, the big tiger casts around for an available dance partner.
Galve finds himself lurking near the buffet, having no partner to dance with, slowly tapping his feet to the slow waltz. The music was nice, the atmosphere was cheery and full of the warm ardor that the occasion entailed... but all in all it was kind of lost on the wasp who was here by himself. Either way, he figured he'd at least enjoy the expensive food and drink while he was. Might as well get drunk on someone else's dollar when you have nothing better to do. At least it was delicious.
A lazy whistling announces the (fashionably late) arrival of everyone's favorite Coyote, forgoing his trademark outfit something more...debonair. He tips a nonexistent hat to the guards. "Nothing but the best vodka," he says with a grin, emptying his pockets for the ferret.
He slips into the ballroom, taking in the scene with a lazy smirk. He nods to the other guests, immediately grabbing a glass of champagne from a passing waiter. Time to get the party started.
Terry steps up alongside Katrina, glancing around the room with a trained eye. He slinks away, moving away from his 'date' as the dance begins. He doesn't join the beings in the dancefloor itself, however, but instead mosies around to the refreshment tables, seemingly in search of someone.
Fenris would find he's short one possible choice for dance partner, Angus already taking to the dance floor with his lifebond. He smirks as he passes by Flora, giving Kalt a spin. "Good evening Lady Longtail, i did not even know you knew how to dance." He quips, catching Kalt as she returns.
"Flora can dance, yes," the she-cat offers with a smile, as she follows Matthew's lead. The music goes on for a while, shifting from song to song, as the waltzes move, and the patterns change. Many of the Nobles and their dates are slowly taking to the dancefloor, and the same holds for several of the upperclass beings, although the lower one goes on the social scale, the fewer beings you'll find swaying to the music. Many of them are content simply eating to their heart's content and sharing the fancy food with their partners and bonds.
All the while, the slow, waltzing music continues to play, and the various beings continue their steady patterns on the dance-floor, and slowly, even the common beings manage to pull themselves away from the food, and onto the dancefloor.
Still, it doesn't take long for Flora herself to end her motions, only a dance or two, before heading off with her partner for some refreshments and winding up near Sirus and Hugo. Trace and Sveta, on the other hand, are still steadily swaying, moving.
Alarmed, Cirrus whirls around, facing the cougar with her claws out. Of course, it's a lot less threatening with a glass of fancy wine clutched in her other hand, the snow leopard clutching the glass carefully to avoid spilling it and making yet another faux pas. Of course, there was probably plenty of wine, but she was hesitant about standing out too much. "I'm just here to look around and be counted as present. There's an awful lot of unfamimliar people here, y'know." She makes a little waving motion with her other arm, gesturing out to the ball as a whole. "Also, I don't dance. That's not really... my thing."
Nicolau waves a hand dismissively. "No? That's a dreadful shame, you keep getting my hopes up with all your mysterious appearances," he says, with a sigh. He glances around for a dance partner, spotting Fenris alone and giving him a wink as an offer, though he doesn't expect much in terms of response. "Your dress looks wonderful on you," he notes, with a nod. "Perhaps if you had a blade instead of a glass of wine you'd be comfortable, but unfortunately, those weren't allowed. Perhaps when the Solacious' have their ball."
Bazalt Freezes as he's approached and spoken to until he reconises hte voice, the Wolf turn round, suprised. "R-reginald!" he Smiles and hugs the lynx, tail flicking and wagging upon seeing him! "I...i've never really danced before B-but.. sure..I guess?" he rubs his head-suddenly looking rahter nervous as his tail proceeds to wrap around his own leg "i.. can.. try to?.."
Reginald just chuckles, and smiles softly. "Don't worry, I'm not that good myself. But, I'm sure you'll do fine, and that it'll be fun." Taking the wolf's hand in his own, the lynx leads them to a quieter corner of the ballroom floor, before turning back around towards his mate. Placing one of his hands upon the canine's hip, the other outstretched, he motions for the wolf to copy, in no hurry as merely being Baz's presence is enough to make this feline grin from cheek to cheek. When a noticeable break appears in the music, he speaks up. "Ready?"
Since Fenris has no dance partner of his own, he moves in and out of the dance, borrowing partners as he goes. While he is not actually dressed like most of those present, he manages to compliment whatever partner he finds himself matched with, however briefly. He even manages a lazy little salute to Angus as he steals his wife for a short turn. Nicolau does get a returning grin, but the oddly uniformed tiger does not come over.
"A fine piece," Hugo is saying to Sirus, "You know, she was the orginial Spyguard, they say? Not that you would have any interest in that sort of thing. Just a bit of trivia." Sirus seems to have little to say, only shrugging and smiling at the big lion.
Terry perks as he spots Mal across the way, milling about at the entrance. He smiles and starts going towards him, a large and busy crowd separating them. He takes a stride forward, breaking pace. "Sir! Sir!" He waves, trying to get Mal's attention, but at that point smacks snout-first into a rather portly rhino lady. A few awkward seconds of flailing, holding onto her for support, and apologising profusely ensue before he breaks away from her and her annoyed plus one in order to speed over towards Mal. He offers a weak smile. "Hello sir. Do you remember me? We met some time ago."
Angus laughs a little as Fenris manages to butt in for a few moments, shaking his head at the antics of the Tiger. Once he does manage to get his wife back he leads her off the dance floor. He finds her a sceat before heading over to the buffet. Ears perk when he sees a familiar face, stepping past Bazalt with a tip of his hat and a grin before he picks up a full plate, balancing two wine glasses upon it as he passes the couple just as they are heading over to a quiet corner. "Good evening." He murmurs loud enough for them to hear before he's taking the food back over to Kalt
Perhaps late, but still arriving, Selena makes her way into the ballroom and slowly walks around the perimiter, taking a sip from a newly opened bottle of cider. Seeing Angus, she offers a wave, and noticing Kalt a bittersweet smile crosses her lips, making her way over to the noble and offering a quick greeting; "It's good to see Kalt's still in town. I was beginning to worry when she never replied to the messages I was leaving." She comments, shaking her head. "Though I suppose it'd be better not to interrupt your evening too much." A gesture is made to the platter and wine glasses with a smirk. "Flora has done a good job of restorations here though, I'll have to give her that..."
Mal takes a sip of his champagne, making a face as he does. Not as good as vodka. He shrugs and takes another sip as he strolls around the ballroom, looking at the portraits curiously. After all, it's not like Father ever hung paintings on the wall. A very sparse man.
The Coyote blinks and turns to face the flailing feline, breaking into a grin. "Of course! It's, uh, gimme a second," he says, with an overly-expressive look of one trying to remember. "Ehhh....Terry! We met at the set-up for the riding competition," he says, grinning. "How are you? Anything exciting? Pet any more Buffalos?" he asks, taking another sip of his champagne.
A small smile from Flora, a small cough to announce her presence to Hugo and Sirus. "Flora assumes everything is agreeable, yes? And Mister Hugo seems... At least somewhat satisfied with Flora's choice of decoration?" she offers, smiling lightly as she watches Matthews head off and chat with some of the other beings at the dance. "Flora realized it isn't like the family of old. But, as Flora said, while the old is to be respected, this is not the same house Longtail. Flora is not suited to lead the spyguard, and Flora wouldn't want to, either," she offers to Hugo and Sirus both, before taking a sip of her own drink. Juice, as usual.
The music still continues, until finally, the fourth waltz comes to a close... And then, the tempo changes significantly. The music is far more reminiscent of the creator-hymns about love and its effects, and the dances that accompany it are far, far more suited to twirls, rapid motions, and various other wilder moves. And amidst it all, there is one pair of birds that seems to absolutely be stealing the show...
"Aye, I would've been much more comfortable with a sword on my hip and something I can run in without tripping and toppling over in." Cirrus says, glancing over at Flora. Truly, Cirrus did need to get out more. The leopard sighs, taking a sip off of her glass and holding the liquid up to the light, waving Nicolau towards the buffet table with her free hand. Specifically, to the liquors. "At least the wine's good. You might want to spring for some of the harder stuff, or pester one of the waiters to get you a cocktail, though. And, hah. The dress was cheap. It probably won't hold up to the end of the night. Fancy vest you have there, though. Gold foil is hard to come by." Unless it's not real gold. Appearances are always deceiving.
The Rhino lady that Terry bumped into simply smiles and shakes her head, reassuring the ocelot that everything is fine, and she's sure he didn't walk into her on purpose. She even spends a couple moments offering some idle flattery. She might've just mistaken him for a cousin of the Lady, considering how sharply dressed he is.
Nicolau puts a finger up to his lips in a shushing motion, confirming her suspicions about the gold trim. "Imagine coming up with real gold on your clothes at a day's notice," he teases, with a chuckle. "Ooh, liquor.. I might abstain, just for now. I'd like to keep things civil for the poor highlady's sake. I'm sure she has enough on her plate, you'd have to hold someone hostage to get her dancing. And it would have to be someone particualrly important. Or someone mechanical," he notes, glancing around. "Perhaps Bastet. I've noticed he wisn't around. A shame, I had hoped he would be more willing to dance, if things hadn't worked out with you," the cougar teases, grinning. "Want to accompany me to the food, or am I just irritating you now?"
Bazalt Is quite thankful when the Lynx draws him to somewhere quieter on the dancefloor, also Ignoring the fox as he passes and talks. "I.. Might just stick to slowdance... I've heard thats easy right? just sway" he leans in to give the cat a Peck on the lips, tail flicking. "Happy... Hearts tiding?... Or.. something.." he turns to mumbling near then end there, not really ready to dance at all...
Selena done."
Reginald returns the kiss in kind, and offers his partner a reassuring nod. "Happy Hearts Tiding, Baz. .. You know we don't have to dance, if you're still unsure? .. Or we can dance for a bit, then go and check out that Buffet again? .. 'tis good just to spend time with you." Nuzzling the wolf's cheek gently, he starts to sway to the music with his love, hand in hand, and emitting a quiet purr of contentment.
Hugo and Sirus turn to acknowledge the Highlady. The black fox only nods once at Flora's words, and watches her intently. Honestly, he watches everything intently. All at once. It is just a little unnerving.
Hugo hooks his over long tail over his arm and leans on his beautifully ornate cane. "I confess, Highlady," he says, stroking his mane, "I am pleasantly surprised. I suppose we could call it a start. I'm not really convinced just yet to throw in my lot with the Longtails, but I am glad to see the family honored here."
Terry straightens the collar on his shirt as Mal speaks to him. He smiles and straightens, his tail flitting side to side excitedly. "Yes sir. Actually I got to see the purple buffalo again, this time out and about. I will be honest sir, it made me think of getting one for myself. Useful to move about faster and to fight with, too!" He looks around, then reaches over to the nearby snack table to grab a small treat for himself. He nibbles on it softly before returning his attention to the coyote. "Are you a friend of the Lady and her family, sir?" He says, nodding his head at Flora across the room.
Angus greets Selena with a raise of his glass, Kalt smiling as well as she answers. "I've recieved your letters, just been a bit to busy dealing with the kids." Angus chuckles a little as he sips his wine, shaking hsi head a bit. "Ai, they've been rather fussy as of late haven't they?"
Selena shakes her head slightly. "So I suppose you're not relying on the nursemaids anymore?" She chuckles. "You know I'm still happy to help if you need a little time to yourself; it's not as if I have no experience with children." Selena taps the side of her nose. "Well, if you don't mind, may I have a seat? I'm not much of a dancer, and I think I just caught Flora heading off of the floor when I got here; so I imagine she wouldn't want to be troubled." She takes another sip of her cider; "Of course, if you were planning a quieter evening then I can be on my way; I don't see the two of you out very often so I wouldn't want to ruin the mood."
"Like Flora said before, the past is something to be remembered. Failures are something to learn from, and successes something to be praised. The house is not the same, but that does not mean the past should be buried. And Flora's grandfather is a part of that history, for better or for worse. One cannot change history, only learn from it," Flora notes, shrugging lightly, as she looks out over the dance-floor. "The ball seems to be a success, yes. And everyone seems to be having a good time," she offers, as she gestures to the center of the dancefloor, where Sveta and Trace are -finally- finishing their dance, guided both by the music, and by the latter's liberal, if subtle application of air-magic. Soon, though the couple've moved off to the side themselves, taking a short breather.
The music continues changing from time to time, from louder, more uptempo songs and hymns about love, to slower, tender hymns and songs. There is, of course, a clear pattern to it all, and while not every being is still actively dancing, that doesn't mean most aren't subtly swaying to the music.
"Yes, food. Food would be nice..." Cirrus makes a gesture further down the buffet line, starting to walk down the way. She pauses to listen to the music, but shakes her head and keeps walking after a second or two, anxiously adjusting the dress in discomfort. "I think the High Lady can handle the crowd, considering how many golems there's about. And, hah. She was dancing with her husband -- naturally, they have to do at least a little bit out of that whole setting an example thing, but it's hardly strange."
Nicolau seems emboldened by the lady letting him accompany her to the buffet table, smirking as she fiddles with her dress, nodding at her. "Food is always nice," he says, plucking up a little appetizer and popping the whole thing in his mouth, chewing it up and swallowing with little grace. "You poor girl. You're treating your dress like a jail cell," he says. "Just let it be! You can be out of it soon enough." Was that an offer?
Bazalt smiles at the Lynx "It's fine, really." he nods slowly and sways aswell-not that he has much rythm. "I'm enjoying it too...this is nice, all in all." he smiles, tail flicking. "wish lyas were here-though that might make the dancing abit harder.." he chuckles slightly.
Reginald rests his head upon the wolf's shoulder as they move together, completely out of time with the music being played, but not caring about that one bit. "Well, I'm sure we could work something out for the future. .. And, who knows, maybe next time you can teach Lyas how to dance! ... No idea how that will turn out, but I'm sure it'll be a spectacle to behold. ...... And, yeah, this is definitely nice~"
"Very admirable, I am sure," Hugo says, stroking his snowy white mane, "And I must say, it is refreshing to see the old manor house without being escorted by guards." He looks around the busy ball room. "I could not say what old Reginald would have wanted. But this is better than I had hoped for." The huge lion looks longingly toward some of the artifacts in display cases. "I do not suppose you would be willing to part with any of these? As you know, I am particularly fond of Longtail antiquities."
Out on the floor, Fenris has abandoned his dancing and has acquired a violin, which he is playing in ways it was never meant to be played that nevertheless adds an exciting edge to the music!
Galve has found a drink and is now lurking at the edge of the dancing, observing mostly. He could see Fenris in the midst, playing his violin, as well as others that he recognized, but most of them were otherwise engaged. So he remained lurking, drinking the expensive alcohol and enjoying the atmosphere.
"Nah, I just came for the free food and drink," he says with a joking tone. "...Mostly the free drink," he adds with a smirk, taking a sip of his champagne. "So, you went to the competition, then?" he asks, his smirk widening. He couldn't see Terry on a buffalo without it looking comical; it was great. "I, regretfully, didn't have time. Had to run a few errands, fetch a few things. Got word of another job; heard it from a Grape Vine," he says, looking around. "I'll have to tell you about it another time. Easy money, delve and retrieve," he adds, tapping his nose.
The Coyote taps his foot in time to the music and takes another sip from his glass. "Anyway, enough about work. How have you been, Terry?"
Terry nods quickly at Mal. "Nothing wrong with a free drink, sir. Might as well take advantage." He helps himself of a drink too, sipping daintily from it as he looks around. He nods at the coyote. "Yes sir. I would be up for any additional contacts you can source. Always good to get some extra ceown in." He smiles. "Retrieval is a specialty, after all." He tilts his head slightly at Mal's question. "I have been well enough, sir. I have been trying to keep myself busy and active, and to meet more beings outside of my usual circle. The Freesword and other mercenary contracts have been good for that. So far I've been lucky enough to not suffer any ill consequences from my adventures as well. Saints willing, that will remain the case." He looks around, trying to spot Katarina, then returns his gaze to Mal once more.
Angus chuckles at Selena's comment, raising his glass to her. "No, come. Sit." He answers, pushing out a chair as he takes another sip of the fine wine. Kalt for her own part in this just gives a nod of her head, popping a bit more of the food into her mouth as she just watches the dancers.
Selena nods, taking a seat and flashing a smile. "I thought I'd at least be polite." She replies; "How've you been holding up over the last few months? I haven't seen much of you lately either."
A small smile from Flora, a flick of her tails as she takes a bite from the table, before shaking her head. "If Flora is to show the past the proper respect, Flora would need the artifacts to go with it, no? However, if Mister Hugo were interested in studying them with the guards, or Flora, present, Flora has no issues with that, no."
"The guards are all around, and the paths are outlined, yes?" she offers, before leaning back again. "Flora will leave misters Hugo and Sirus to it for now, though, yes," she offers, as her gaze travels towards Angus, Kalt, and Selena, her body soon following after. Doesn't seem like she's saying much yet, though.
Katrina seems to have been dancing with various beings, although once she catches Terry's eye, she flashes him a smile, and excuses herself, soon joining Terry and the coyote he's chatting with.
"Aye. It seems like I've been here ages already." Cirrus says, picking up a small plate to load a few items unto it. She had to finish off her glass of wine and set it down to have the free hands, but that was fine. "And, it is. You can't run, limited range of motion, not as effective claws, etc, etc. They're utterly pointless! Don't even look that nice, either." The subtle suggestion was lost on her, as she launched into a rant.
Nicolau seems to be adoring the sound of her voice as the words pass thruogh one ear and out the other, though he catches the basic gist of her rant. "You do look nice," he interjects, pointing a finger to her body as if it was some kind of evidence for the claim. He plucks some champagne off the tray of a nearby serving girl and takes a sip. "You don't need to run or do jumping jacks, dear. You know what you should get? A suit!" he says, gesturing to himself. "I can run and jump plenty. And I look fantastic, if I do say so myself."
Bazalt sighs and Hugs the lynx as he looks about "unfortunatly... i have to go I.. have.. otehr matters to attend to.." he spies Angus and shoots him a brief glare, sighing. "Love you... and miss you-it was nice to see you today" he Hugs the cat tight before pulling away, looking somewhat saddened.
Reginald nods in understanding, and places a parting kiss upon the wolf's lips before he leaves. "It was good to see you again too. .. Love you too, Baz. Keep yourself safe out there." As the wolf pulls away, the lynx catches sight of that saddened look upon his face, something he had seen a few times before now, and a concerned one creeps into the lynx's own visage. Following his mate's perhaps unintended glance, he also catches sight of Angus, a face he now links with this saddened look upon the face of the being he cares about so deeply. However, now is not the time to delve deeper, so the lynx makes his exit, pondering things over in his mind.
Galve catches a snippet of conversation from Mal and wanders over in their general direction. "You on that job as well?" He asks, having topped up his glass on the way there. "A job from Mr. Amar, if I remember correctly. Some kind of mystical doodad that he wants or something." He says, sipping his drink and trying to make conversation with the coyote.
Terry smiles at Galve as he approaches, nodding slowly. "Greetings sir. Yes, I do think Mister Amar was our patron there. It was quite a profitable journey, I have to say." He visibly stands a bit straighter as Katrina starts walking in his direction. He steps aside, standing to Mal's side as he watches the panthress approach. "Katrina." He says, smiling softly, his tailtip flitting excitedly as she nears them. "Mal, please meet Katrina Silkenfur. Miss Silkenfur was kind enough to accompany me to this party tonight. Katrina, this is Mal." He says, gesturing. "A friend and associate."
Angus raises his glass to Flora when she starts making her way over, smiling once more. "A splendid party Madam Longtail." He exclaims, before turning his attention back to Selena. "OH things have been fairing well for the most part, all the usual things as per usual." He commets, running a finger along the edge of his wine glass. Kalt remains silent for the moment, watching the proceedings while she continues to enjoy her meal.
"Ahh, retrieval. Seems to be all I do these days," he says, swirling his champagne as he looks at the alcohol, before looking up in thought. "Mm, there was the time I delved into Ancients' ruins...then there was the Hill Wurm eggs..." he says, trailing off as he remembers that incident. The state of that nest when he finally managed to crawl out, singed and burnt...at least he retrieved more eggs than he needed...
The Freesword gulps down the rest of his alcohol, replacing it with a full glass of champagne as a waiter passes. "Then there's this upcoming job," he says with a smirk, looking over to Galve with a curious expression. Before he can reply, the Coyote's eye catches the approach of the Pantheress, an eyebrow raising as he turns his attention to her, looking Katrina over. Look at Terry's catch, eh?
The Coyote gives Katrina a bow and a smirk. "A pleasure, Ms. Silkenfur," he says. "Ahh, yes. The name's Mal. I'm impressed, Terry. You never told me you had such...fine company," he says with a grin. Oh Creators, he's been hanging around Nicolau too much...either that, or it's this damned Courtier Soul.
Selena nods back to Angus, waving back to Flora as she makes her way over. "Good evening. I'd have been earlier, but I had some things to attend to at the Acedemy." She greets; "You've certainly done a fantastic job of the restoration here." Turning back to Angus and Kalt for a moment, she quirks an eyebrow. "... Awfully quiet this evening, Kalt." She observes; though doesn't press any further, finishing her cider and setting the bottle aside on the table. "Anyway, I'm surprised; I thought you'd left the floor. Getting more used to crowds, Flora?"
"Flora has to be social, yes? That is part of being a Noble, Flora is told," The she-cat offers, as she takes a seat besides Angus and Selena, her tails flicking behind her. "Crowds... Are not the problem, no. It's the part where Flora has to talk to them, yes. Flora much prefers the lab. Research. Much more comfortable, yes."
Katrina, counter to her sister, seems far more comfortable around people, her smile almost infectious as she rests a paw on Terry's shoulder. "Terry here's been working as my... Apprentice. Though I've allowed him a few smaller side-jobs, recently, as you've probably figured," she offers with a smile on her lips, a flick of her ears behind her mask.
Cirrus rolls her eyes a bit. She's not one for high society, but she's not naive. Her tail flicks, though. "You never know when you need to, is the point. That's the idea of being prepared! It's why you should keep a sword about and a shield, train in armor, and all that such." She picks the food off the plate with a fork, eating the food pretty quickly. "And a suit's not really too ladylike, apparently. I'm sure that that'd end somewhat badly."
Nicolau rolls his own eyes in return, shaking his head. "Darling," he says, gesturing again down to her body. "You're wouldn't look ladylike in a suit? You haven't got any damn shoes on," he notes, with a chuckle. "At least you're careful not to talk with your mouthful or one could mistake you for a street urchin snuck in in a bedsheet!" He's clearly joking, grinning broadly at her. "You aren't going to need to kill anyone, unless, again, you're growing sick of me, in which case you've got a fork and I have a throat."
Galve realizes that Mal is otherwise engaged, and takes a step back before turning and heading back to the buffet. Even the small talk was poor tonight...
The Coyote nods. "Well, bravo. I didn't know Terry was under an apprenticeship," he says with a smile. "It's good to learn a craft; keeps you from becoming some mediocre jack of all trades, like me," he adds, smirking at his self-directed jab as he takes a sip from his glass.
"I was just telling Terry about a job I heard recently, I thought it might be up his alley," Mal continues. "That is, if you don't need him, milady," he says, nodding to Katrina. "I heard from a Grape Vine that Amar has found this hole in the ground," the Coyote explains, looking between the two cats. "Now, I've not heard of any 'mystical doodad'," he continues, shooting a glance towards Galve, "...But I /have/ heard that it's supposed to be full of treasure. Good ol' fashioned retrieval," Mal explains with a smirk. "I figured I'd let Terry know, since I've heard some stories about his exploits," the Coyote adds, giving Terry a knowing smirk. "...How many thugs did you take down in Silvervein Pass, again?" he asks the Ocelot after a moment, grinning. "Woulda gone, myself, but I was..." he pauses for a moment, clearing his throat, "...Ahh, running an errand for an associate of mine," he finally says, tapping his nose and taking another sip of champagne.
Terry can't hide a little proud wiggle of his tail and a quick straightening of his back as Mal mentions his kills. "Two, sir. One by bow, one by dagger. I feel I gave the bandit leader a nice scar to remember me by, as well." The ocelot motions touches a line across his right hand's wrist with his left index finger, indicating the cut. "He was quite formidable, hard to pin down. Maybe I'll see him again sometime and try to finish the job." He looks up at Katrina, sharing a moment's glance. "And yes, Katrina has been kind enough to let me pursue other jobs to hone my abilities and meet new contacts." He looks at Mal, smiling. "Always good to make a friend or two, no?" He takes another sip from his drink. "I'm certainly up for some treasure recovery, if Katrina does not otherwise require me to be with her at the time."
Angus finishes his glass and gives a nod to Flora. "Well of course, you've never really been much of a people person if I remember right." He smirks, only teasing her a bit. Kalt just shakes her head, giving a smile to Selena. "I'm just a bit tired, the kids have kept me up a lot recently."
Selena nods understandingly, then canting her head towards Angus. "It is true." She comments idly. "Was there anything I can do for you, or were you just here to enjoy the company? After all, it IS more talking." The woman leans back in her chair. "I might want to get something else to drink. I didn't expect I'd be here that long; I don't suppose there was some cider that I'd missed over at the buffet table?"
"Friends Angus and Selena are friends. That's different, yes. And Flora has been busy, yes. Flora should stay informed and things like that, yes," Flora offers with a small smile on her lips, a small tailflick. "Though... Flora is admittedly going to have to deal with some things here again, soon.
Katrina offers a warm smile, a soft rumble. "I'm sure I can miss Terry for a couple of days. So long as he returns in one piece, of course," Kat purrs out softly, leaning back lightly. "Though... I figure perhaps a final dance before we retreat, Terry?"
"I have a good reason for not wearing shoes -- my feet are digitigrade. Granted, I could... but it's so much more comfortable to not." Cirrus says, pulling up the hem of the skirt and gesturing to her feet. It does exactly as she describes. "Besides. At least I get some air in this. Firmament is way too hot for me... though, I couldn't imagine leaving. Besides! I didn't spend much on this, and I don't plan on visiting many more balls. May as well deal with it this one night then go back to stabby-stabby tomorrow."
Nicolau taps his chin. "Oh, interesting!" He says, looking at her legs, chuckling at her phrasing. "If you think it's too hot, I recommend skirts. I've been told women like them, but personally, I found them just a tad too breezy. But I'm from Shralesta - so what do I know?" he wonders, with a shrug. He downs the entirety of his champagne and hides the glass among some plates, inconveniently out of sight of the waitstaff. "Mm.. well, it doesn't look like I'll be having much dancing tonight, at least not until the ball is over. A shame! But, it was lovely to see you again."
Galve finds his way to the exit, retrieving the pistol and dagger that he left there, and heads out into the night, thoroughly pleased with the meal and the food at least.
"You have my word, milady. I look out for my friends," Mal says, giving the Pantheress a final bow, and Terry a friendly smirk. "Stay safe, Terry. Treat your lady right," he adds, winking at the Ocelot before sipping from his glass and turning to look at the rest to the rest of the guests. He eyes the Lord Solacious, but shakes his head and turns to looks over the displays. "...Should get myself a watch," he murmurs, looking a bit longer before turning to watch the last few dances before he, too, will head out for the night. Never know, he might learn something.
Terry nods at Katrina. "I would be delighted to." He looks at Mal, nodding at him with that same smile of his. "I certainly plan to, sir. Have a good evening." He waits until the coyote departs before turning to face Katrina and raising his hand to hers. "One final dance, then." He guided her to the center of the ball room, dancing with his partner to the slow waltz currently being played.
Angus chuckles once more at Flora. "Yes, it's always good to come see your friends." He teases her, then Kalt starts giving him a look and he relents with a roll of his eyes. "I do enjoy the invite, thank you. I appreciate that." Looking at his glass he puts it down and bows to her. "And I must apologize but it is time we should be leaving, we were only afforded a few hours with a sitter and must get back to take care of the kids." He flashes Selena a grin, giving her a hug before he talkes Kalt's arm and heads to the door. "Do Enjoy yourself Lady Longtail."
Selena reciprocates the hug from Angus, planting a chaste kiss on his cheek before giving Kalt a farewell hug in turn. "Well, as I mentioned, if you ever need a few hours then feel free to send for me. Angus, Kalt; it's been good to see you both again, take care of yourselves." She shrugs slightly, looking back over to the buffet table and scanning for signs of cider as she replies to Flora. "That's fair enough; I appreciate that you haven't forgotten who I am." She teases, stretching a little. "I hope the work wasn't too much trouble for you to have done; the ballroom alone is complicated enough that I could imagine artisans charging a small fortune for this alone, much less the rest of the place. I never did quite understand the need to own places like this, but I must admit the decoration IS lovely - more than I can say for some other large estates I've seen."
"Flora designed most of it, yes," Flora offers to Selena, her tails flicking behind her. "The pillars and the like match the old layour, though, yes. Flora's been working on the clock for a while. Teaching a few of the employees about clockwork in the process, yes. But for now, Flora will have to get back to dealing with things," she offers.
Katrina, for her part, seems to be enjoying the dance, although, like expected, both she and Terry are soon leaving the manor once again...
"I have to get going, I'm afraid. And, sure, I could wear a skirt, I suppose. But no pockets!" Cirrus bemoans, but eventually shakes her head and lets the dress drop back to the floor. "Just keep on trying to find someone to dance with, I suppose. You'll get there eventually, Nicolau, don't worry." The leopard shoots a curt nod to the cougar, before quickly evacuating herself from the building.
Nicolau laughs at her final complaints, smiling at her. "I appreciate it, honey," he says, giving her a little wave as she scurries off. "Have a good night!" And then he downs some more alcohol before wandering off.
Mal swallows the last of his champagne before setting the glass aside and rubbing his hands together. The Coyote makes his rounds, murmuring his thanks to the hostess, a nod to the Solaciouses, a clap on the back to Nicolau and a well-placed joke, and he's off, whistling his lazy tune as he leaves the manor, tossing a coin to the Ferret manning the door as he goes.
