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Post by Krakenbox on Nov 6, 2021 10:14:58 GMT -8
Yes, there was a pool. No, there wasn't any black waters of unknown depths and horrors. The divinations would be available upon order at the bar. Samhain was being hosted at The Flamingo this year. The property included a 72,299 square-foot casino along with 3,460 hotel rooms in which Freeholders looking to get absolutely lit could apply for somewhere to crash in advance, already paid for by rich patrons. The architectural theme is reminiscent of the Art Deco and Streamline Moderne style of Miami and South Beach, including a garden courtyard which serves as a wildlife habitat for flamingos. The hotel is the oldest resort on the Strip in operation today, founded by the American mobster Bugsy Sigel. The date marked the veil between planes becomes notoriously thin. Denizens of Arcadia are known to often cross, taking advantage of the weak borders of reality and spirit. However, the Lost will always know. The neighbours are forced to make Their announcements at the behest of the Autumn Bargain, and obey the laws set forth by the Seasons, rather than Their own chaotic designs. Vegas had yet to truly see an invasion, but Mabon marked one of the first Heralds in recent memories, and eyes were sharp for anyone looking to crash a Witch’s Ball with the song of a Title and the beginnings of a hellish siege. The ascended court held their own traditional duties to satisfy their ungodly wards while the rest of the Freehold went about their business. Masks of various designs were adorned and Cirque-esque performances were taking place for traditional mummering, and likely saucy political commentary sewn into the folk displays. Even for the death of October, the cold evenings were not taking full effect until another week. The only distinct tradition that would catch a visitor’s eye relied on the fact that there was a sudden influx of ethereal beings. It didn’t take long to catch onto two details: these people were not Brightones, and the Autumn courtiers were clearly playing the role of hosts. Like the aos sí of legend, the young androgynous figures moved in a dreamlike fashion, with a soft glow to their angelic features as the Lost entertained their delighted childish whims. For those more familiar with the Sentries, telltale signs of a disease were beginning to take its toll with frail limbs, wide eyes, and gaunt cheeks. They would demand to be present in the Real, but unlike the years before, the court apparently had gone all out constructing a Hollow within the Casino, with an open neon gate. A quieter speakeasy with windows to space and beyond left a space for those to chat and reflect, while imbibing in liquid experience with the flicker of insight on a Fear that might plague them. One only asked, as detailed in the invite, that these honoured guests remained Unnamed. |
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Post by Krakenbox on Nov 10, 2021 18:43:15 GMT -8
A few things stand out among the streaming crowds... Kai's towering, crystalline form was strained with brown veins and crackling blues as she seemed to be having a heated conversation with the Elemental Sunbanisher, who hunched his shoulders and was looking around and away as he responded. Mitchell had apparently been roped in as well, arms crossed as he leaned against the wall and seemed uninterested in diving in with his own opinion. Oren was asked about his dreams recently, but not detecting any issues, wasn't immediately pulled into drama with the higher-Wyrd children of Zephyr. A few Spring Courtiers gathered around Hua Yuan and Henley , mentioning that the rumour mill pointed them in the direction of the Razorhand Gavin Graves if they were looking to help with Emerald Issues. Wayland seemed to be getting popular when it came to her talents, with some of the newer Summer Courtiers asking about weaponry for the incoming invasion, and pointing in the direction of the Chevaliers of Sirius for the potential of needing to armour up. Loki appeared to already be drunk, swaying and trying to dodge his former Knight Commander as Bloody Mary seemed to be reaming him over a disagreement. Lucas Chevalier was waved over by Cinderella, making good on her promise to meet with him now that the heat had died down with widespread panic. She sat on the edge of the torch-lit pool as Aello played water polo with some other High Seasons and a couple of Sentries. Golden Boy seemed to be dozing, resting his head on Tanner's lap as the Fall Courtier nursed a beer and read a book, occasionally looking up to see if his ward for the night was behaving. Eis has it mentioned to her that Nott is good at finding things thought deeply buried, which Blaze happened to overhear. It might be helpful for their research project. |
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Post by Aster Blau on Nov 10, 2021 21:47:56 GMT -8
Aster had come, seeing to her private, silent promise to be more available and present at Freehold functions. The serpent had begun the gathering at the periphery, the sight of weakened Sentries causing the Beast some unease before her observations showed the higher ups in Spear didn't really set off any sense of alarm. Thus, the Venombite relaxed enough to consider how she should be using the evening to her advantage. She had pondered approaching Kai, but her current argument with Fawkes told Aster it was probably best not to. Likewise, the prospect of getting between a drunk Loki and a Knight of the season who was pursuing him to thank the former for his leadership at the Hunt seemed a poor choice. Then her eyes landed on Aello and the other High Seasons in the pool, which led Aster to abandon her thoughts of pursuing greater acknowledgement from her court's leadership in favor of something less oriented around advancement. Aster had experience in conflict and their would be a time when her talents were called for in a manner that she could not ignore. The call to duty would come. What Aster lacked in her season was friends. Comrades that knew she could be counted on. Shedding the skin for the moment on her more aloof tendencies, the serpent would slide through the crowds and make her way to the pool. Passing at the edge of Henley 's and Hua Yuan 's immediate environs Aster would grant the pair a nod and a smirk. She remembered well their time together at the Ashen Hunt. It had given her hope for Vegas' Spring court, for they lacked the softness of others she had known before when push came to shove. It was a quality Aster was certain would be useful in the days yet to come. Upon reaching the water's edge, Aster slipped off her leather jacket, pushed down her worn cargo pants, and wrestled off her boots with some effort revealing a navy blue bikini before seeking permissions to join the water polo game. The approval given, the Survivor of Chico slipped in and joined, making good account of herself among the company of the other High Seasons. The Venombite isn't exceptional at the sport, but proves she can hold her own and doesn't need the handicap of the others. The competitive nature of the game elicits a smile from the Beast. Fangs flash into a grin as she bounds in the water, her earlier apprehension of the evening melting away to portray her delight. |
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Post by Gavin Graves on Nov 10, 2021 21:59:29 GMT -8
Gavin reflexively opened and closed his fists, nervously stimming away any building energy before it might turn into pacing. The manic beast was still jittery after returning from the hunting party. One of his worst fears had been unleashed that night for many to witness: himself. Still, as harrowing as it was for him both physically and mentally, he powered through and much to his surprise did not come to harm any of his comrades. He would have thought the result to be a small miracle prior to living through it. Now, having experienced one of his worst nights since returning from the depths of the other place, he finally knew a moment of peace. The monster he feared he was could in fact be restrained, even in a Razorhand's sublime reverie of carnage. In a time when he would much prefer to retreat to the quiet solitude of his home, he was called out yet again to be social and possibly productive. He was grateful the event called for masks and could be less concerned about hiding his weariness with the added cover the feathered raven skull mask he was wearing. The choice was a nod back to his experience of being a Whisper Wisp in the woods for a few hours. It did not hurt that it was somewhat menacing in appearance, especially in combination with the black feather mantle and brooding demeanor. Taking in the ambiance and whom decided to present themselves this evening, he decided it'd be best to engage with some of his fellow Ashen Hunters, Henley and Yuan. They'd at least understand why he might be a bit off his usual self. "Good evening, yeah," he forced out of himself, projecting through the skull adornment. |
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Hua Yuan
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Presence 2 - Nostalgic; SL 1 - Flawless
Posts: 304
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Post by Hua Yuan on Nov 10, 2021 22:34:59 GMT -8
Social functions. To Yuan, they were both a blessing and a curse. A blessing, because a gathering of Changelings for the purpose of having fun was far less harmful than the violent outburst of the Ashen Hunt. A curse, because the Playmate would be held to a higher standard and thus more likely to come up short.
He had struck a deal with Wayland for a Hedgespun mask, an amalgam of broken shards than still let him see and speak without opening an artery with every clumsy movement. It was symbolic of his state of mind, of how he saw himself as nothing more than a reflection of the Freehold's needs. Whether the others understood it or not didn't matter. Mitch, as well as Sweeney and Oren, on top of another Summer Squire he wasn't familiar with, drew his attention, and he tried to catch the Dancer's gaze. Eventually, the Beast decided that he would be called upon if he was needed. He still felt the sting of their last meeting and didn't have a satisfactory answer to give. He waived over to Aster, hoping she would stop by and save him from the social angst, but the Summer headed straight for the pool. A shame, that.
Despite the lack of discernible facial features, the Beast still managed to appear friendly. Those who spoke to him only saw a myriad reflections of themselves, which probably put then at ease. Enough that even Gavin, of all people, approached him and Henley .
"Quoth the raven, Nevermore," he answered back. "That is, a good evening to you too." There was a warmth to his tone, one that wasn't readily available to new acquaintances. The Ashen Hunt, as well as spilled blood, had closed the gap between them. Yuan was thankful for mask that covered the concern on his face.
Mabon had been a lot for everyone involved, Gavin and Aster more than most. They had been on the front lines, and Yuan wanted to make sure everything was in order, privacy be damned.
"I'm glad to see you. Great costume, by the way."
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Post by Krakenbox on Nov 10, 2021 23:06:01 GMT -8
The Summer harpy cackled as she sprayed water at the other team, allowing for her own side to vault the ball with the front guard yelling and laughing at her horseshit 'strategy'. The viper emerging from the water to spike the ball right back at her elicited a surprised gasp, with a clumsy dive toward the incoming target. She wasn't as fast as Aster, unfortunately, prompting a dramatic sink to the bottom of the pool to hide her embarrassment.
As Yuan paused and tried to stare down Mitchell Carr, the Dancer eventually did a double-take, glancing back towards Oren just to be sure his mind wasn't messing with him. Fawkes followed suit, attention swinging across the crowd on reflex as he squinted.
The Sunbanisher voiced his theory, trying to inch away from Kai's relentless Mantle with the suggestion that he investigate, but the Dancer was much faster, redirecting the thread of questions as a smooth mediator before conveniently volunteering himself to rule out someone who hadn't attended That Night, and was stronger in the Wyrd than Oren.
You know, data and shit.
Mitch was still laughing silently to himself as he flowed through the crowd with unnatural grace, hovering on the edge of Gavin and Yuan's budding conversation and not in much of a rush to interrupt. Kai would poke him again as fast as he gathered information, and knowing the Wizened, barrel through to the next phase of truth seeking. So, was there really a good reason to be in a rush?
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Riley Sorsa
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Presence (3) Captivating | SL(1) Stylish Mantle (2)Spring | Status(1) Entertainment
Posts: 913
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Post by Riley Sorsa on Nov 11, 2021 9:39:52 GMT -8
A dazzling display of light and acrobatics curled its way up and down a gleaming silver pole that sat upon a red velvet platform. The performer, at first glance, could be mistaken for the other shining entities present this evening. Still, a close examination and the noticeable mantle revealed the entrancing performance to be none other than the infamous twilight Dancer. This evening they were adorned in a gothic blind mask. A beautiful display of twisting silver metal, a close examination reveals skulls, moons, and death moths all woven together in a dizzying collage of knots. Additionally, this evening, the performer wore a high necked lace bodysuit decorated with rhinestone and geometric shards, giving the impression of a cracked mirror. Their performance was undeniably provocative and enticing but also unnerving. Between not being able to see their eyes, the lingering broken oath, and something hard to put one's fingers on, the seductive dance was perfectly unnerving for an evening such as this. Dismounting from the platform with a graceful hop, the Death moth moved towards the bar—their light burns in the reflection of their costume. Instead of taking a seat at one of the stools, the Darkling sat upon the bar itself, crossing one leg over the other and awaiting a chance to order. Meanwhile, their eyeless faces scanned the gathering, a blind predator. Death had marked Riley, and the Spring Courtier knew the best way to handle the stress and fear that clung to them. It was to indulge. |
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Post by Gavin Graves on Nov 12, 2021 23:31:06 GMT -8
Catching several fragmented reflections of himself in Yuan's mask was mildly disconcerting. It was a fresh reminder of Gavin's alien yellow owl eye.
"Ghastly grim and ancient raven wandering from the Nightly shore." Catching himself up to the humour and staying within the poem, he had replied. "And yes, thank you."
"I was laid up for a good chunk of the month though. Bit of a broken wing from all the ... fun. You wouldn't happen to have got a line on fixing up the ol' Emerald breaker box, would ya?" The Beast thought he was being circumspect about the failing Spring Contracts, but it had come out clumsier than he'd intended. He opened the question up more broadly to Mitch and Henley with a lift of the beak and a head tilt, in their respective directions. There was a small chance at least one of them understood the kooky bird.
When he turned to Mitch, Gavin was reminded of Rowan's recommendation that he speak with the man about handling the particulars of his anxiety. He decided that could wait until his interest was satisfied.
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Post by Blaze on Nov 13, 2021 3:52:27 GMT -8
Blaze wasn't a party person overall, but she appreciated and understood the need for community, and Samhain appealed to her considerably more than many other Seasonal rituals. Maybe it was the encroaching cold, or the secrets and occult happenings intertwined with glamour and socializing. Or maybe it was this absolutely delicious Black Russian she now has in her hand, sitting at the bar in the speakeasy part of this joint. At least, the drink looked like a Black Russian - knowing Autumn, they probably put all kinds of secret herbs and spices inside just to mess with people. Dressing up wasn't the Elemental's strong suit to say the least, but she... tried. The all-black ensemble faux leather boots, gloves, skinny pants and coat with sleevless tank top underneath made her look distinctly like Trinity, and the Hedgespun mask of surprisingly lightweight metal satisfied the occassion's need for anonymity and a bit of macabre to add to the mix. Blaze knew this couldn't last - you don't get to spend the whole party drinking alone if you want to get anywhere. Maybe she'll go bother Sorsa - that performance of theirs was really something to behold. But for now, she has to finish this Black Russian. |
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Post by Henley on Nov 14, 2021 19:02:56 GMT -8
Henley's eyes were following the chat between Solomon's relentless Squire and Mitch Carr. The fact that Rose and her boss had a good reputation among the Spring Court was helpful, but he still couldn't help but feel a sense of unease around the pair. Solomon's reputation had been nasty, then improved, and now people were looking to him for stability. Spring had grown angry and Summer had grown strong, but had he truly changed? Something to consider later. Aster had given him a nod and he gave a wave from the hip as she went by and dove into the pool. He adjusted the cat he had covered his face with idly so that he could take a sip of his Martini. "Ah. So they were right. You do mean to help. Wonderful."He fixed the mask and smoothed charcoal Armani with his offhand. "We were certainly thinking about looking into it. Your knowledge of the occult surely outstrips mine. The challenge is getting information about it." With that, he turned his attention onto Mitchell Carr and lowered his voice. "I've a question for you, Mr. Carr, since you're strong in the Season enough for it to really potentially affect you. Would you be willing to tell us about your experiences with our challenges of healing so that we can get a sense of what we're dealing with, and I'll help you give Squire Rose the slip... because you're so very busy helping the young of our Court?"A hopeful smile. |
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Post by Mitchell Carr on Nov 14, 2021 23:43:58 GMT -8
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Post by Lucas Chevalier on Nov 16, 2021 3:44:25 GMT -8
For once, Lucas didn't care about the pagantry associated with an event but he knew he still had to put together a nice outfit to not flag the others that something was off. Instead of the usual attention grabbing regalia he wore to these sort of events, he opted for a black 3 piece suit with a gold tie, and a lion's mask. In recent months, his golden blonde hair had grown out which worked nicely with his mask as it looked like he had a golden mane to go along with it. On his right pinky finger was an impressive silver and gold lion head ring.Anyone he came cross while collecting his drinks would get a friendly nod, smile, and polite small talk. After he gathered up five of the Daisy Chain drinks on a tray, he focused on tracking down Cinderella. Fortunately, she was actively looking for him as well which made it a lot easier for them to connect. "Hey, Cinder. Don't suppose yourself and the rest of your motley would be up for going for a walk, having one of these fancy Daisy Chain drinks, and talking shop?"Lucas beamed at the group, flashing them one of his disarming smiles. |
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Riley Sorsa
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Presence (3) Captivating | SL(1) Stylish Mantle (2)Spring | Status(1) Entertainment
Posts: 913
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Post by Riley Sorsa on Nov 16, 2021 14:58:45 GMT -8
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Post by Wayland on Nov 17, 2021 14:14:03 GMT -8
In a mask that looks like it’s made of driftwood bound in cord and string, with two great horns arching to either side of her head strung with hanging bits of bone, old coins, and shiny stones, Wayland dressed tonight as if to evoke the coast. She’s not sure why, maybe because it’s a little bit familiar and a little bit foreign? The binding together of mundane and significant was ever known to her in Arcadia, but she remembers no ocean there. She wears a rough-sewn jacket of brown leather over belted linen dress in dark blue, a simple cut garment from her collection of SCA garb. A knife and several pouches hanging from the leather belt, and wrapped sandals on her feet.
It is gratifying to see that her talents are starting to be recognized. But really, this is too many people asking for her attention. Wayland likes people. Kinda. She even likes crowds sometimes, but that’s when the music is pumping and they’re all moving to the same beat. For talking, especially for business, Wayland prefers… smaller numbers. Her shoulders are stiff as she tries to reply to requests and questions without sounding like a defensive bitch. This is what she wants, after all; to supply her Freehold with the tools it needs to survive, to win. She doesn’t want to scare off the people whose very hands she wants to press those tools into.
That, and she’s trying to keep an ear on something else. Bloody Mary is still a bit of a mystery to her, and so is Loki. Mysteries she’d like to unravel. As much as everyone’s distracting her, she’s still trying to eaves drop on their conversation, and catch at least a bit of it.
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Post by Cinderella on Nov 17, 2021 20:15:13 GMT -8
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