I Am Glitter, I Am Gloam

"HEAVENLY SHADES OF NIGHT ARE FALLING."

The booming voice of what can only be a bard fills the area with tones so rich and a timber so reminiscent of chocolate that dessert seems impossible.

"Come twilight time, twilight time," the chorus joins in behind him.

Yet night is not falling just yet. The heat of the day is the first to retreat, leaving in its wake a sense of fresh air as the mellow stones and fountains cool in the Theatre District. Follow your nose through the winding streets, where the paths of flower petals cover the ground with increasing density. Follow your ears, and hear the music playing. That balmy breeze blows through the central courtyard where Asphodel is throwing another party. And throwing appears the right word.

Dancers are already dancing; actors, musicians, artisans of all types meander through the space. Laughter fills the air, and between every set a veritable flurry of petals scatters through the area like a fragrant dust storm. Tiny fireworks pop in the air before dispersing glitter, and one will find those dancing to be as varied and as diverse in race, style, and outfit as any could hope.

The hostess, one Lady Carrough ("Just Asphodel") is power-mingling, a concept imported from Llyranost by the host herself. It involves a dizzying combination of dragging people to meet new people, and you MUST meet... And on and on, with the electric thrill of something in the air.

Zeke has left.

As has become standard for matters involving Asphodel's 'parties', Harkashan has left his armor behind. Thanks to Rune's guidance on how to take care of such articles of clothing, and her helping don it once more.

Notably, the lava-like golden-yellows amongst his scales has only gotten brighter. More notably within the lights. The silk serving once more as partial cloak, partial loincloth, and partial covering around his body. A sort of Toga like getup as he steps through the streets with Rune.

He's remaining incredibly close this time however. His tail nervously lashing at the streets - forcing people around him to take a bit wider of a berth than usual.

"I do not believe we are at risk of meeting Phantoms once more." He bids to Rune, trying to lighten the situation a bit. "Only the whims of a Llyranost Lady." His mood elating a bit as the music fills the air closer to him, and his steps start to sync up a bit with the song and instrument.

He watches, the fireworks, the glitter, the diverse outfits and people. It feels warmer than it normally does in Alexandria. Something he appreciates. Something more 'outside'.

"Lady Carrough." He rumbles, as the host gets close enough to him. "We meet again."

The footfall of Telamon Lupecyll-Atlon is nothing special. No flowers spring up in his wake, the stars do not align around him. And yet he radiates that indefinable air of conviction, of relaxed confidence, that serves him well in these social situations.

Dressed in a new ensemble -- this time, a high-collared tunic in deep, dark blue, with silver trim at the sleeves and silver buttons down the front, over loose fitting trousers in black and soft-soled shoes. The style bears a distinct resemblance to Tsuran or Jade Island styles, with a subtle elvish flair. His circlet holds his hair back, and rings set on his fingers reflect the light as he glides into the soiree.

Catching sight of Rune and Harkashan, as well as the Lady Carrough, Telamon approaches, though he waits for Hark to finish greeting the lady before speaking up. His dark eyes glinting with starlight, his lips curled in a small smile.

One person amongst the music and and glamor is that of colorfully adorned egalrin woman. Instead of the hues of before, she's donning her typical rainbow hue of ribbons on her wings, though her simple robe is replaced with a swirling rainbow from cool to the shoulders, down to hot fire at the knees.

Slixvah rests amongst one of the chairs strewn about, her having already danced her feathers off and was lightly panting. Nearby, she cranes her head back and over. "Oooh, hello, hons," she croons, wiggling her fingers to the group as she catches her breath. "Another might fine party, shug."

Unlike Asphodel's last party in the Theatre District, Rune is not dressed particularly fancy for the occasion. Rather than her usual armor, she has a simple button-up shirt which shows a hint of a silvery undershirt beneath it and a pair of her usual dark trousers. There is a bit of bruising visible long her neck-line, a sign of recent troubles that have not yet fully healed. Troubles that likely explain Harkashan's lashing tail.

However, Rune does seem to be taking advantage of the evening, enjoying sights and sounds. "I'm not worried about phantoms, nor the whims of our host." The half-sil woman replies, her voice a smidge softer than normal. There's something almost delicate in the way she's walking, as if she weren't quite comfortable in her own skin. Perhaps it is lingering discomfort from whatever befell her recently.

Upon approaching, she offers a warm smile, even if there is some exhaustion in her blue eyes. "A fair and beautiful evening, Lady Carrough." The same is offered in turn to Telamon, "Handsome as ever, lord Lpecyll-Atlon." There's a hint of light amusement there, but not close to her usual good nature. Rune is definitely not fully herself this evening. The waggling of colorful feathers from Slixvah gets a raise of one hand in her direction, as well.

The joy that radiates from Asphodel is an almost palpable thing, helped along by the rainbow swirl of drifting petals, when those familiar voices greet her.

Spotting her people, the party is really on. "Telamon! Rune! Hark! Slix!" She pauses.

"How do you always slip into my parties before I know?" She asks of the Egalrin with something like awe in her expression. "And can I hire you?" Laughing, she steps forward to close into intimate discussion. "Honey, what happened?" She asks of Rune, concern coloring the gaze she gives Telamon and Harkashan. "Poor thing! I have mead and wine and also mulled wine. What have you two been up to?"

Asphodel extends her hands palms-up to Rune, concern coloring her face.

Slixvah laughs warmly. "Ah, sugar, ya see, I am always very, very good at gettin' inta where I wanna," she winks. A brow raises, intrigued. "Hire me? Fo' wha'?"

Attenion drifts to Harkashan and Rune. She's mentioned she's a healer of sorts, and she lightly squints. Seeing Asphodel's concern, she doesn't layer on more worries. Deathsinger must have already tended to her.

GAME: Harkashan rolls Sense Motive: (4)+12: 16

Harkashan bows his head respectfully as he notices Telamon's approach. Taking a moment to appreciate the dark blues and silvers of his garb.

"When I am not wearing my armor, I do tend to be a bit more inconspicuous." Answers the Lava-like dragon, practically glowing the way light keeps hitting him from all sides. His scales shifting and warping. Flows of gold and yellow amidst reds and black. He knows she wasn't speaking to him, but he wishes to attach a bit of humor.

He then shifts only a bit aside so Asphodel can get closer to Rune, though he's quick to note; "Please refrain from tight hugs. She's still recovering." The protecting Sith-makar expresses quickly. Noticing Slixvah's expression for a moment, he just nods at her. "Skysister?"

The lizard then checks with Telamon; "Have you had time to speak to Lady Asphodel on the matter we discussed yet? Otherwise, I may have desire to draw her to the side and speak on the matters of Ale for a moment."

Telamon regards Rune with a raised eyebrow. "Rough job?" he says with a calm expression. Serene. Reassuring. Like all is well, and all manner of things shall be well. He smiles at Asphodel, and politely bows. "Lady Carrough... a pleasure, as always." Eyes shift to Harkashan. "Harkashan, why don't you grab a seat so Rune can take a load off."

Casually, the sorcerer ambles over to collect a couple of glasses. Catching sight of Slixvah, he grins at the flamboyant egalrin. "Slix, it's good to see you again. Keeping the world tweaked in the right direction?"

It's possible Fidget's outfit is somewhat more suited to the ballroom than it to the gauntlet when a few of the guests here saw it last, her colourful, muddled suit/dress draws some eyes for the unique style but otherwise mostly blends in. Except the hair and the hat. Those would stand out anywhere.

Fidget hadn't been sure about attending the ball, sometimes people get very stuffy there - but then she decided 'What the hell' and came along anyway. What's the worst that could happen?

So she found herself among all these tall, well dressed people - her head weaving through the people with surprising and necessary grace to avoid being bumped or stepped on, getting a feel for what kind of party this was, when she hears the voice of a few people she'd met before. A moment later, her head peeks around the side of the host and she gives a silent, beaming wave to them.

With Harkashan present, the courtyard actually glows with the reds and golds of sunset. Petals in the air carry an ultraviolet tinge, briefly embracing Fidget like a lilac hug before they turn into butterflies that flitter off.

"You always make everything beautiful," Asphodel says, watching the flurry of petals. She raises a hand and waves to Fidget, not missing a new arrival no matter their height.

"Hey! Petticoats!" She calls out, a wicked grin on her face. "Petticoats!" She says again, calling out to Fidget, gesturing to her own style. "Oh, enough bowing between friends. You've already seen me tied to a rock." Even so, her satin-gloved hands beckon invitingly to Rune.

"Apparently I make a good target for creatures that wish to reclaim the dead." There is a faint wince that follows as Rune takes a slow breath. "Thankfully they weren't actually after me." With small laugh, "And more thanks for other far more capable fighters and good healers." She reaches out and clasps Asphodel's hands, giving a nod. "Nothing a few days of rest and good food won't fix."

At Telamon's suggestion, Rune nods, "A chair sounds heavenly right now." Then, she spots the sight of a familiar, though elaborately dressed goblin. "Good evening, Fidget." She nods, "Your tailor has outdone themselves. It's quite a look." The words are spoken as a compliment.

"Mulled wine sounds wonderful. Though... I do imagine there's a few things we need to talk about regarding a certain ale and a tailoring contract." She raises a brow to Asphodel. "Though I imagine that's something best left for times when you aren't acting as hostess."

Slixvah grins at Harkashan. "Inconspicuous? Shhuure, hon? Ya a walking tower of lava. Peace on ya nest, Landbrother."

She looks to Telamon, sipping on some provided wine. Gives another wink. "Sure am, hon. Just doin' m'thing in the little ways that I do.

Thankfully, the bird-woman was already sitting down, spying Fidget ambling about. "Ooh, now tha's a fancy getup," she hums.

The egalrin winces at Rune's words. "Well. Take a load off, hon."

Asphodel gently squeezes Rune's hands, and then her warm smile turns... innocent. Reaching up to her neck, one hand still holding onto Rune through the power of etiquette alone, she deftly unclasps a necklace of lilac opals on a silver string before returning her hand to Rune's. "I can never thank you enough for what you did for me, you and Harkashan. And my goddess he's dashing," She observes, before leaning into speak in a lower tone. "Every woman needs at least a statement necklace," She says with a wink, plucking from a passing tray of drinks a periwinkle tulip bloom. "And a flower for one's hair." Her expression softens back into the easy smile of someone surrounded by good people. "Bless you, Telamon. We can talk of many things, but first, sweetest heart of Spring, you have a necklace you forgot with your ring, and I personally think you would look lovely with a wild valley rose in your hair."

Telamon returns smoothly with glasses of mulled wine on a tray. "Borrowed it from a waiter," he says with a grin. "Nothing like a friendly smile and a kind word." Deftly, he passes a glass to Rune first, though. "It's not an easy task, but those are the ones worth doing. Just... be careful, hm?"

When Tel catches sight of Fidget, his eyebrows rise again, but then he politely offers her a glass from the tray. "And a good evening to you, miss. I don't think we've met. Telamon Lupecyll-Atlon, at your service."

"Hrrrm." Harkashan rumbles at the suggestion he should grab a seat for Rune. He will let Rune decide if that is something he should be doing. He knows her to be just a bit stubborn, and enough of a free spirit that she might not desire as such.

Besides, he has plans to dance with her today. Suddenly, something bumps near his leg and tail, causing him to lift his foot a bit, seeing something purple rush past him, until it bumps against Asphodel.

"Ah, miss Fidget." He rumbles, recognizing the small thing.

He then smirks at Slixvah, with a knowing bit of mirth in his eyes. Indeed, that had been the joke he'd been aiming for. "Peace upon your nest." He answers back. "And you think so? I thought the reds and yellows made me blend in so well here." Which, in a ways, he does. What with Asphodel's courtyard turning into reds and sunglow-yellows.

He does turn his head away a bit as Asphodel's claims of handsomeness. It reminds him of those who would protect the brood.

But, at Rune's declaration she'd enjoy a seat, he bows his head once more, and moves to find them a place of seating, pulling out a chair for Rune...

And turning another seat around so he can actually sit on it without his tail getting in the way. Big swish.

Being so bumped, Asphodel gives a brief "Woo!" of surprise that dissolves into laughter, and soon that laughter is drowned out by a new set taking place.

A dwarfish woman in six-inch platform pumps slams her foot down, and BOOOM!

"EVENING Alexandria! I'm Ginny Hargreaves, and this is--" Gregory Siminok and Lutthouse Medellin, two Egalrins on modified guitars and dulcimers; Gregriuy Siminok, a giant on base (and triangle); and Seesh Grey, the Lucht Siuil who appears to be a literal one-man band.

There's a moment of quiet.

"WE. ARE. WORKING ON A BAND NAME!" Ginny cries out. All at once the band begins to play, going after their instruments and later, rhythm, with an approach that can only be described as "winning, somehow".

There is a part of Rune that feels a bit embarassed with people actually showing that level of concern over her. She is used to it from Harkashan, but until recently, the half-sil had not had a wider group of those she could consider friends. A bit of color rises on her freckled cheeks sa she just gives a grateful nod. "Please, don't worry yourselves too much."

And then Asphodel is bejeweling her with a necklace and flower and that faint flush turns more colorful as the half-sil just quitely accepts the favors and looks more than a bit flustered through it all. "You should ask him for a dance. I'm not sure if I'll be able to manage tonight and it would be a shame for our esteemed healer to have to play wall-flower for the evening."

Accepting the glass from Telamon, Rune gives a nod. "Trying to be. One of the creatures just happened to find a weak spot." She doesn't elaborate on that, not at first. "Do you... know much about ghosts, Tel?" This question is raised more softly.

With the chair pulled over, Rune actually sits more similarly to Harkashan. Rather than leaning back against it, she straddles the chair and leans forward. By the look of it, her back took the brunt of the damage, and she seems to be avoiding putting pressure there. For now, she simply rests forward against the chair's back, taking a sip of wine, enjoying the good company of friends.

Good friends, and a very unique band, it seems.

Aelwyn has arrived.

Slixvah takes one final rallying breath as she rises to her feet. "Hah," she snorts at Harkashan. "You'd fare better blending inta a field of flowers on a high noon's day." She sticks her tongue out at him. "Or, perhaps a lil' bit," she concedes with a chuckle, glancing about at allt he glitz and glamor.

She raises a brow at Asphodel's gift.

Her attention shifts to the band, eyes lingering on the two egalrin. Her brows raise at Ginny's declaration, but then settles in with the music, enjoying the sights.

"So uh, Asphodel, honey, what wa' thi' thing ya said ya wanted ta hire me 'bout?" she asks, spying Rune taking a seat alongside Harkashan. She wiggles her fingers at them. "Just lemme know if ya need any mo' mojo. both of yas."

It isn't long before a battle of tribes occurs: musicians joining in on what is quickly becoming a jam session. The music picks up beat with a startling clarity of sound that coheres into the warm, more southern-style of dance and ball music. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrzxW0rsD1Q)

Mikilos has arrived.

Harkashan sticks his tongue out at the Skysister. It is... notably rather long, and has a similar glowing red-and-yellow pattern to it. Glistening in the light for a moment, before he withdraws it. Though the motion is more of a quick 'mlem', like a snake trying to taste the air.

"I am worried for that group of Dancing Dragons." Musicians? Bands? What's that. "Lacking a name for their group must be difficult to suffer. Softskins are very attached to 'identity'." Harkashan points out as he looks at Rune for a moment as she gets settled down.

He didn't hear what she'd been saying to Asphodel because of the band starting their music.

"Ah, sitting like a Sith-Makar now. Soon, you will have scales indeed." He rumbles to Rune with a sound of bemusement in his voice.

Telamon hms at Asphodel's rather kind gift, and shoots Rune a smile. At her question, though, his brows come together and he sets the tray aside. "Well, Rune... it depends. Some ghosts are just in your head -- others, not so much. And while some can be malign, others are just... trying to work out whatever's keeping them from moving on." He inclines his head to Harkashan. "He probably knows. Even in a -celestial- bureaucracy like the Harpist's court, there's probably legal wrangling that's not limited by petty mortal concerns like sleep or eating."

Taking a seat next to Rune, he winces slightly at the barrage of musical sound. "I hope this doesn't become a thing. It's hard to follow the beat with two or three bands at the same time." His eyes meet Rune's again. "Why do you ask, anyways?"

Giving a bow to each person who greeted her, and a twirl of her skirts for the Llyranesi lady who seemed to like them, "They had the highest colour to square inch of fabric of anything I found. Plus, if you pack enough layers in, it's almost like they have pockets! You can hide *so* many things in there." she confides excitedly.

She eagerly accepts the glass of mulled wine, and has a large gulp from it, nodding appreciatively at the warmth. She then mutters a quick spell and sits the glass in midair by her head while she rummages around in her petticoats for something to Fidget with. Something small found, and thus distracted, she asks aloud, "Are they actually trying to come up with a name... or is that their name? Because that would be such a good name. They should make that their name!" she says, probably to anyone who's listening.

Following after, Asphodel motions with her head for Slix to join, widening her eyes and waggling her brows. C'mon. This will be fun. While Rune is seated, Asphodel stands behind her to gently draw the necklace around. "Would you like me to put it on?" Her hand reaches for a comb that is not there.

"Where are the background crew?" She wonders aloud. "Makeup!" And in no time at all, in the heart of the Theatre District, she has exactly what she needs. "Darling," her voice turns soft, and in the lull between sets the petal breeze, the wine, the company... It can be difficult to think straight. "Would you... like me to do your hair?" Asphodel asks of Rune.

"If you would like, I can weave you a true triple-cloth with actual pockets?" She asks of Fidget. A comb is set into her waiting left hand; another glass of wine, her right. "They never sleep. All they do is paperwork," Asphodel agrees with Telamon.

Mikilos has follwed his gut, often follows his nose, and has on more than on occasion followed where his feet take him. Tonight he follows his ears, though his eyes play no small role, and the grey robed wizard pauses near the edge of the gathering. Bemused eyes nod politely to any other eyes they happen to meet. Well, the whole head nods, not just the eyes.

Slixvah snorts at the return mlem, as well as laughing at the joke. "Yeah, before ya know it! Ya'll be growing scales, have a tail, and be flowing through wata like nothin'. Careful, I might end up turnin' inta one too!"

Seeing as Asphodel was getting her attention to come hither, the rainbow egalrin slides over to the host. It wasn't a long jaunt, she was already nearby.

To fidget, Slixvah smiles, eyes crinkling. "Yeah! So many robes give ya so many pockets!" she coos.

The power struggle between the musicians, the unnamed band, and the dancers is real. It's happening. The unlikely victor are the dancers, who have collectively made good on their threat to congaline to the increasing beat (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdRnRr7pLSk).

"Is this not a dance?" A small (yet not too small) collection of horn and ribbon asks, having neatly weaved his way through the crowd that were doing their best to smooth their moves out to the music. "Why are the feet open and eyes eager, yet the warmth of bodies have not began to entwine?" Aelwyn asks with a rumbling amusement, before he bows his head to each person in group in turn.

Once again, the draconian was dressed up in a more polished set of scales; gone is his usual leather armor, replaced with... equal amounts of leather earmor, yet adorned with a red silk draped from one shoulder down his side; golden chains flittering down his exposed chest, and hanging around his muscular thigh on the opposite. And who knew? He left his glaive somewhere. Instead, he is holding a tall torch.

The Dragoon's orange eyes flick across the group. "Fabric, she is well," And finally towards Telamon, narrowing eyes a touch. "... the White Raven's half of a feather?" Yet the draconian pauses to stare at Rune and the gathering about her, clicking his teeth. "Tch, this one hopes this is not a ploy by Gold to kidnap Twin." He glances towards Harkashan, then flashes his teeth. "This one is still not sure how to rescue someone from doting."

Asphodel is setting her glass down when she spots Mikilos. Waving as though they were the best of friends, she beckons him over without leaving Rune.

"Sunshower got me by the hour," the band croons.

"No liminal spaces," Asphodel says, raising her voice to reach Mikilos. "It's a rule! I will scour a wallflower!"

Rune shoots the lava-scaled Sith-Makar a side-eyed look, then rolls her eyes slightly. At least her amusement seems to be returning in the company of so many others. Dragging her from her rest at the inn seems to have that positive effect, at least. "I wish I'd had some extra scales last night. It might have helped." Then, with a pause, she admits, "I'll have to talk to Alaryn and see if she has any suggestions for better defenses."

As Telamon offers out his own experiences with some strange, otherworldly beings, Rune seems more uncertain than anything else. With the musicians warring around, she has to lean a bit closer in order to be heard, "We encountered the ghost of a little girl's mother. She..." Rune hesitates, "She talked as if she knew my mother in the spirit realm. My mother died more than a decade ago. Is that... even possible?"

And then she is decended upon by Asphodel. Oh no.

"Oh, no. I'm fine. Really. No makeup. I like my hair." The response is very much a tomboy panic. While Rune can clean up nicely, it's usually on her own terms and the idea of being dolled up sounds like something akin to torture. "The necklace is fine just... Um. I'm good otherwise. really." Oh please gods of fashion, spare her.

"Are you sure?" Asphodel says, bending down to whisper in Rune's ear. "Most women would murder for me to do their makeup. And by me I mean her, that woman over there--" she does not point, merely gestures, "Is Lillian von Deen, and she is the best makeup artist around until you find another," Asphodel says, which is a statement that can only make sense to elves, theatre people, and anyone who finds themselves in the asset category of Asphodel's dance card.

Telamon looks like he's trying to swallow about a gallon of laughter at Rune's panicked look. "Ah, Lady Carrough... perhaps a raincheck on that. Besides, this is the sort of thing that should be done in quiet surroundings. The music is kind of noisy." He gives Rune a sympathetic look. "Besides, I've heard there's all -sorts- of things that can be done for makari as well." His dark eyes sparkle mischieviously as he glances at Hark.

"But to answer your question, Rune... it depends. I've only really spoken with one ghost and he's... well, the best description is that his case is under appeal and he's on parole. Beyond that? Hells, I don't know. You probably should ask Hark here, or maybe Mourner Verna. It's simply not something I've studied at length."

Harkashan nods his head when discussion turns to the type of creatures they met. Beings in charge with keeping spirits where they belong. He doesn't answer Rune's question immediately on whether it is 'possible' for one spirit to know another. He just looks at her, reaches out, and touches her hand.

A smile. Just a soft nod of his head. Quiet support.

He then looks to Aelwyn, showing a flash of his teeth in bemusement, before addressing Asphodel; "Her beauty is not one that blooms through make-up and being dolled up." He answers Asphodel. "She is more other-worldly than that."

Harkashan then tilts his head questioningly at Telamon, failing to get the reference being made.

Mikilos quirks a brow as he moves closer, nodding pointedly to Telamon. "No liminal spaces, got it. Wasn't planning on shifting any dimensions, but they do make for good quiet spots to converse. How is every one this evening?"

Slixvah gives a wave to Aelwyn. "'cause I just got done doin' all that, and I got tons of feathers, overheatin'! But hey, ya left ya glaive, good! Looks much better! Very kind of ya."

She shifts her attention to Rune, her hiding a snicker behind her beak. "Leave her be, Aspy," she coos, adding onto Telamon's support of belaying the makeover. "She just got done undergoin' an ordeal, give 'er space."

Speaking of ghosts. "Yeah, I talked ta a bunch of ghosts befo'. Was no fun, gotta say."

She grins. "Yeah you can do /tons/ wit' makari! Loads o' body paint, cool jewelry ta put on horns. Tail jewelry. /Tail jewelry/. Like look-"

"Est'l angche ti pu," she chants briskly. She shakes his head briskly, it blurring from the speed as her robes ruffle, obscuring her wings. When it settles down, instead of egalrin woman, there is that of a red and white scaled makari, no wings anymore, the ribbons have moved on to her tail that sways wide. She gestures to herself, the reds and whites. "So many colors ta muss 'round wit'," she rumbles, smooth tone gaining a gravel to it.

GAME: Slixvah casts Alter Self. Caster Level: 7 DC: 17

"Hmm, maybe that would be good. But it can't be three layers, it has to be seven...no, nine! But at least seven." she says, and looks up at the elfen Lady. Way up, "And something tells me you might be expensive." the goblin muses before going back to her fidgeting with something small and cylindrical in her hands. With a 'hehehe' of success, she places the object in her hair - is that some of the glitter fireworks from the display earlier? Then she clicks a little device in her hands and lights the fuses, after just a second's delay, the *fixed* fireworks tear open as they ignite, depositing their glittery load all over the immediate area - mostly on Fidget, who gets an even coating of glitter on her head, dress, and arms. The remaining part of the fireworks shoot off into the sky and give an unenthusastic pop.

"There we go," Fidget proclaims, "and now it's time for dancing.", she bounces away quite happily with herself, leaving glittery puffs in her wake. There might have been some glitter splash damage, too.

GAME: Aelwyn rolls reflex: (14)+4: 18

GAME: Mikilos casts Prestidigitation. Caster Level: 19 DC: 21

Harkashan watches the Skysister change into his species, remarking on 'how much you can do with a Sith-makar' as if they were a doll to play dress up with. There's a momentary plume of black that comes from Harkashan's nose in response.

Still, he leans in and remarks; "If you want prime Sith-makar fashion. You show off a /tailbag/. Especially on the..." A glance to Aelwyn, then to the Skysister once more; " short ones." Sorry Aelwyn.

GAME: Asphodel rolls reflex: (5)+3: 8

As if by magic, Asphodel sets the comb down and Wardrobe, those people at the edge of the circle, disperse.

Just in time for Slix, as the set change includes a more traditional orchestral arrangement. As if to soothe the sun's descent into darkness, the musicians strike the Waltz of Flowers. The sky darkens, and the lighting of candles and more arcane lights is performed by a quartet of ballerinas, leaving dusk in their wake.

"Tell you what?" Rune starts, looking for a possible escape from the affection that Asphodel offers in the way of makeup and hair styling, "The next time you hold an official ball or gathering with fancy dress, I'll let you play dress up." She is likely just passing the buck to make this all 'future Rune's problem', but it seems like a way of escaping such a fate this evening.

While the others are quite ready to throw Harkashan to that fate, instead, she just gives the Makari a nod, squeezing his hand briefly before she takes a drink of the mulled wine.

Between Telamon, Harkashan and Slixvah, there is little really in the way of answer for her, but Rune just nods. "It's alright. I didn't expect a certain answer. I should probably take better care to not be so obvious with my own thoughts around creatures that can play upon them." Though, she doens't seem certain that this is what had happened.

And that's when glitter puffs up into Rune's face and she gives a very unlikely, high-pitched little sneeze. It's adorable. Her nose scrunches.

Mikilos shouldn't be surprised at goblin glitter fireworks, but is still caught off guard. But mundane glitter isn't too hard to keep away, with only the most minor bit of magic and a simple gesture. Wizard Robes are Serious Business, and not for sparkley glitter... though a little does somehow manage to find it's way into the tall elf's strawberry blonde locks.

For his part, Telamon regards the glitter that comes down on him as just one more sign of the times. He even chuckles at it. "Sometimes the answers aren't there, or just won't shake loose until later. Focus on what you can deal with now, and shelve the worries for the future." He takes a little of the glitter in his fingertips, inspecting it, before grinning. "It's like dealing with the garden pixies," he comments.

When he's greeted by Mikilos, the half-elf nods politely. "Archmage. How does the evening find you?" He picks up another glass of mulled wine, offering it to Mikilos. "Care for a drink?"

Asphodel has few words for Fidget, except for the delight of her expression at the presentation. She actually claps her hands while laughing. Even as glitter rains down upon her, sticking flower petals to her dress and hair. She goes to say something to Mikilos, and instead, manages to turn her head before sneezing glitter.

"That isn't what it looks like," She says a moment too late. "My good sir, we've not made acquaintance," She tells Mikilos. "I'm Asphodel Lady Carrough. Just Asphodel. Or anything, really," she adds, the glitter in her black eyes seeming to have stayed with little concern from Asphodel. "Thank you for coming! It's very nearly the gloaming time," she adds, casting her gaze to the sky, where the blue of the evening sky is actually turning a more subtle but concentrated hue.

Aelwyn simply rumbles in amusement, looking towards Slixvah. "Tch, this one did it for Ribbon, less he cut into her wing-" And she just ruffles her into new shape. "... tail." He tilts his head, then moves to tap the not-Makari's tail with his own. The explosion besides him makes him turn around, just in time to weave out of the way of the worst of the glitter. It did take a step out of his dancing motion. "... goblins." He rumbles.

At Harkashan, his orange eyes look towards him. Then with a graceful motion, he moves to slap the larger makari on the chest. "And this is why the talls are so hard to style; their attention is always on the tails of the short ones." Flick-flick-tail. He turns around and bows his head towards Mikilos. "Wizard, it has been too long." He rumbles as he slowly falls into a lower crouch, speaking to Rune at a quieter voice. "Is she alright?"

All the motions seem to have just flown with the music; the Dragoon once addressing one in one space, but already on the second beat he was leaning over the other.

'I love your outfit', Asphodel mouths to Aelwyn, giving two "just right" finger-pinches in the air.

Makari-Slixvah cackles, a rolling sort of sound as she leans into towards Harkashan. Sky blue eyes nictate, and a forked tongue flicks out briefly. "... a /tailbag/...!" she grins, tail flicking from side to side in excitement. "Now tha's a grand idea...!"

She flinches from the sudden glitter bomb, but ends up reveling in it, letting herself of a sparkly white and red scaled sith. "Hah! Good one, little Fidget!"

The dancing changes, and she half considerings joining, but she is currently... not in the best physical shape for that. But she spies Mikilos, her tail slowing a tinge. "Miki-mo-names," she bobs her head. Aelwyn bops her tail, and she whips it back at him.

"I can handly say it was my idea." Harkashan answers Slixvah, "But I would gladly purchase a tailbag if it were available. They are easier to work with than trying to grab something from my back." He remarks. "Far quicker access." Utilitarian. "And easy to put ribbons on." He adds, looking to Aelwyn once more as he slaps his chest and all that silk covering his chest. Some of it shifting and falling a bit, exposing more of that glowing shimmering scale-work.

"Please don't go undressing me with your hands." He teases Aelwyn with a playful huff of a sound.

Mikilos smiles to Telamon, accepting the offered glass. "Bemused and entertained. I was orginally comming to put up some posters, but plans change, I suppose. How have you been?" Turning focus to Asphodel, he half-bows with courtly formality. "Archmage Mikilostravia Abrioudelanarchie Mithralla, Lord of Estranillia, Builder Arcane, at you service Lady Carrough. Though just Mikilos is quite alright. I'm glad to have made it."

Rune has not officially met Mikilos, but the name has reached her ears by reputation. So, the half-sil gives only a respectful nod, not wanting to interrupt others who are more familiar with the man in qeustion.

Instead, she rubs at her nose, trying to get rid of the glitter still irritating it. So when Aelwyn leans towards her, she offers a soft nod. "I'm alright. Or... I will be in a few days. We could have used your strength in that last fight, my friend." Her expression is warm at that.

Between Slixvah masquerading as a Makari, discussions of tail-bags, and Harkashan talking about being undressed, by hands or by otherwise, it just leaves Rune giving a soft laugh. "Okay, you were right. It was worth coming out tonight." Apparently Harkashan had convinced her to come to the gathering. "I do feel better."

Off in the distance, among the party dancers, Fidget is dancing and twirling to the music, enjoying herself and mostly not getting underfoot of any of the more organized dancers or groups. She seems to particularly revel in how the glitter flies off when she moves, leaving her an afterimage of sparkles that gives her movements a slightly ethereal quality to them. It also seems that after a while, she may be using magic to reapply the colourful 'dirt', drawing it back onto her clothes so she can spray it off again.

GAME: Fidget casts Prestidigitation. Caster Level: 2 DC: 14

As Mikilos introduces himself, the orchestra changes songs into something that sounds like Spring itself. Asphodel lowers her head and steps back into a curtsey. "Welcome, Mikilos. It's an honor to have you attend." Rising again, she says, "We're delighted you made it too," and genuinely appears to mean it. Which is to say, surrounded by these people, in this setting, with music and most everything she loves, Asphodel pulls at a mohair throw before wrapping it around herself. "Mmm. It's here," She says, looking up again. "It's the gloaming. It only occurs in Spring. And it's my favorite blue." A curious cast to the sky has settled into a a distinct shade of blue, a hue one instinctively remembers but may never actually notice.

A ruddy hand slides to touch Rune on the shoulder. "My apologies, but you will stand taller." A low voice replies Rune, before Aelwyn glances towards Harkashan. His orange slit pupils looked up at him and carried a degree of devious intent. "Then what would Lava desire this one to do?" The question is followed by by the ruddy sith-makari slowly sliding away, stepping towards the taller Makari - and his teeth pull on that toga, lightly guiding it into place.

Asphodel's mouthed words are picked up, and he replies with a bow of his head and a mouthed reply, 'Gratitude.' His eyes then turns towards Ribbon. "This one hopes she will not insist this one to wear one at the TarRaCenow," He rumbles out. "This one is already enough as is, how can the patrons survive with this one stealing all the attention from the beatiful bartenders?"

The glitter in the distance makes Aelwyn pause. Part is urged to join. Second part is wary of all the too much glitter in the eyes.

Telamon watches Fidget dancing, and making an interesting use of prestidigitation. "Huh," he says thoughtfully. "That's... kind of clever. Lana and I might experiment with that." He rubs his chin, grinning at Rune. "That's the point, Leirune. While we live, let us -live-. And that means enjoying life."

He knocks back his glass of wine. "There's always time for work, for battle, for dealing with unpleasantness. Make time to savor life and happiness. It's what makes the world a better place in the long run." Rising to his feet, studying the dancers with a calm gaze. Measuring.

'Lava' reaches his hand forward and 'boops' his snoot, the way Rune sometimes does. There's hesitation and confusion in the motion. Like he's not quite sure what he's doing there. But, still, snoot-boop.

"You can look, but you cannot touch tonight." He answers Aelwyn playfully.

'I do feel better' - Harkashan's head tilts sideways then, looking warmly at Rune. Another touch to the back of her hand.

"I'm glad." He rumbles at her. For her enjoyment, her happiness, has become rather entwined into his own. "Did you want to try and go for a dance? We can take it slow, I know you're still sore."

Asphodel keeps a straight face through that comment, because she has to. Because she's LLyranesi, and generations are staring down her back. But she maintains.

Mikilos peers at the sky. NOT making eye contact. "It -is- a lovely shade of blue. Though I think slightly easier to find in the wilds. City lights tend to spoil the effect."

Makari-Slixvah's scaled brows raise. "Put mo' ribbons on it ya say? I likes this idea," she hums warmly. Though, she raises her glass to her maw. Eyes flicking between both Harkashan and Aelwyn. Siiip.

"Hence Miki-mo-names," she hums. There's a glance to Rune. "Glad ya could make it, sugar. Hit me up later if ya mo' pick me ups," she hums.

She watches Fidget spin about and sparkle about in. "Naw, ya ain't need ta Flutter. Mo' fo' my advice. But hey, you already get a lotta tables!"

She looks between Rune and Hark. "Ey, Rune, if ya want, I can pump ya full of healing mojo if ya wanna blunt the pain ta dance," she offers.

The Dragoon's flat snout is booped, and he also gives a confused expression and a scrunched face. It looked as if he was waiting for something to happen. Nope, nothing was set on fire. "Hmmh, Lava is running a tight bargain." He gestures with a low rumble, stepping aside from the pair. "Yet how can this one resist the sight of seeing a Hotstone dancing in the crowd?"

With his flame fluttering in tow, the Dragoon makes his way back over the not-Makari. "Has Ribbon ever danced like a makari?" He asks from her, doing a slow circular step around her. Yes, Aelwyn was going to be very obsessed tonight about one thing.

"I know." Blue eyes look to Telamon, Rune's voice soft. There's so much in what he says that she's come to accept in year since her ressurection. Some things still hold her back.

And yet, when Harkashan asks if she wants to try for a dance, Rune looks to her long time friend and gives a nod of her head, pushing to her feet and reaching for his hand.

She gives an amused smirk to Slixvah, "I'll be fine. But, if you know about where to get potions and the like, I might have questions for you later." Rune leaves it at that.

Her attention, instead, is offered to Harkashan, "Come on, big-guy."

Makari Slixvah bobs her head towards Rune and Hark. "Gotcha hon! Hit me up later! Have fuuun~!"

The not-makari rolls her eyes. "No, I ain't. But fine! I will. Ya 'boutta get ya toesies stepped on tho' 'cause this biz is waaaay different!" she elucidates with a raised finger. Slix knocks her drink back, gets up, and yanks Aelwyn's collar to drag him off towards where the others were dancing. "Lezzgo!"