View source for 2025.10.04 - The Hallowed Welcome Ball

{{Log
|title=     The Hallowed Welcome Ball
|summary=   At the masquerade ball to open the Halloween season, a ghostly witch appears to deliver a mysterious riddle.
|world=     Sangria
|location=  The Lodge
|location2= Gentleman's Bluff
|type=      Social
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{{Feat|Hector Reymundo}} {{Feat|Rykard del Santo}} {{Feat|Sly Lupus}} {{Feat|Taliesin Kennerick}} {{Feat|Eddie Bloomberg}} {{Feat|Kieran MacAuley}}
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{{feat|Miss Chichi Lee}}{{feat|Elenora Moonshadow}}
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===  Doctor Inferno  ===

A tall, wiry... steampunk demon?! Dark red skin, smooth as silk. A tall black brushed-velvet top hat rests atop his head, affixed with a pair of clockwork brass and glass riding goggles. Two tiny black horns poking out of a rippling wave of gleaming, shoulder-length snow-white hair. The hair is tugged back from his face in a loose bind that leaves strands dangling past his cheeks and ears. Eyes a luminous and underworldly shade of yellow, topped by thin white eyebrows, and surrounded by a thin domino mask of black satin. Ears pointed in a fashion more impish than elfin. A small nose that could probably be called elfin, though. Soft lips that seem compelled to twist into smirks and smug little grins. When he smiles, the sharp little fangs, both upper and lower, become more obvious. Now and then a wisp of steam or a crackle of sparks will arise around him.

Every particle of fat seems to have been burned out of him, leaving his hairless skin tight along every curve and line and vein. Wearing a black silk vest embroidered with gears and a dark tweed jacket (complete with black leather elbow patches), he has the build of a rock climber: dense and compact muscle carved out in sharp relief. Simple white cotton trousers hang low on his hips, held in place by a broad brown belt littered with snap-closed pouches. The pants are cut loose, all the way down to the glossy black calf-height riding boots. A long, spade-tipped tail-- lined with a series of gold rings-- swings out behind him, flailing and twitching as he moves. He's a cheerful sort, though sometimes if he laughs too hard a puff of fire might come out.

===  The Emerald Fox  ===

Standing at 5'7", this costumed man is dressed in a custom-tailored outfit colored a bright green. Sequins and other accent pieces give it almost a metallic sheen and it seems to change shades when the light hits it just right. Blond hair is spiked up, with neon green frosted tips. His eyes are a piercing blue behind an emerald green mask, also sequined, that angles up at the edges and rests just over a slim nose, with slender lips just beneath. Upon taking a closer look, one might notice the vulpine features of the mask. The costume itself is a truly vibrant green, with a sequined vest over a white, long-sleeved dress shirt with a matching green bow tie. The wrists of the shirt are adorned with two cufflinks that look like genuine emeralds. His dress pants are a slightly darker green that offers some contrast without looking out of place. Completing the ensemble, a pair of black dress shoes have dark green laces neatly tying them.

===  Arawn  ===

Arawn is a tall and imposing figure. His raven dark hair is long hitting his mid back and almost blends into his inky black cloak. A high collared crisp white shirt is under the cloak, with a vest made of leather straps. The same straps run down his arms like gauntlets and his fingers are tipped with pointed rings that look like claws. A pair of velvet trousers tucked in to knee high polished black boots cover his legs. His pointed ears are adorned with silver earrings, and a horned silver crown rests on his head. His mask appears to be made of black metal and filigree over his eyes and down his nose. Underneath his eyes are ringed with dark kohl that makes his stormy grey eyes look stark in contrast.

===  Mr. Caterpillar  ===

A man of decent height, wearing fine clothes featuring a long coat in fuzzy green, orange, and wheatgold with marigold mixed in. It seems to be a highly glam caterpillar motif.

===  The Fool  ===

The wiry, graceful figure before you is dressed as an interpretation of The Fool from a classic tarot deck. He's wearing a long tunic, black with a design of twining leaves and large golden flowers. The tunic's sleeves reach just past his elbows, where they flare out into long folds, and a gold medallion belt cinches the tunic at his waist. Gold fishnet stockings hug his slender, well-defined thighs, and a pair of slouchy gold peasant boots do for shoes. Upon closer inspection, the black of the tunic is actually a fine mesh, while the leaves and flowers are solid, so many hints of his lithe torso are on display. A black cowl with an ornate black and gold mask in a harlequin theme conceals his face, and the look is completed by a small green felt cap, adorned with green and gold feathers.

----

Masquerade!

The faces on parade may or may not be paper, but the hallowed season has arrived. Invitations have gone out, and people have begun to arrive. Guided by carved jack-o-lanterns that line the long lane up to The Lodge itself, the building decorated in suitably spooky fashion, attendants dressed in old world costumes of service with simple masks and whimsical hats guide each guest up to the third floor by candlelight. Upon reaching the ballroom, they fling the doors open and announce the arrival of the guest by their costumed name.

The ballroom is draped in black and silver streamers and garlands that resemble lace and cobwebs. A live band with a mixture of orchestral and more rock-style instruments occupies the platform on the north end of the room, currently playing a Bardcore variation of "Thriller." A sumptuous buffet has been setup along the wall beneath the windows, everything done up with an elegant take on "spooky" seasonal party foods, yet still managing to look appetizing, and the smells of the food are certainly enticing.

The crowd looks pulled right from The Ivory Tower scene of The NeverEnding Story, as a mÃ©lange of colorful and eclectic figures mingle and dance around the area. Even a bit early, the party appears to be in full swing, as if the locals just couldn't resist getting right into the party.

The hosting duties appear to be somewhat shared tonight, as in addition to the normal Lodge staff and volunteers, a colorful and brassy drag queen is sweeping around the room, very clearly dressed as The Queen of Hearts in a getup so elaborate it almost certainly took a dozen card-themed guardsmen to stitch her into it. As everyone enters and is announced, she'll offer them a sweet from her pumpkin-themed basket and a kiss on the cheek, then stride off toward another new arrival.

"Doctor Inferno" makes his way inside, hastily adjusting his mask ''after'' he's made it inside. Not like the mask does much of anything to actually conceal who he is, given the conspicuous white hair, luminous yellow eyes, horns, red skin. And the tail, swaying out from under the back of his jacket, the gold rings glinting in the light.

He fusses a bit with his top hat and the clockwork goggles resting atop the brim. At last he seems satisfied with his outfit.

Until he glances down to find the shadows cast on his white trousers.

"Oh. Shoulda gone with the black..." So he scoots off to one side to try tugging the material into a more subtle arrangement.

The Emerald Fox pauses just inside the entrance to the Lodge's ballroom, adjusting his bow tie as he looks around at all the faces he can (or can't, rather) see. He immediately begins to casually stroll around the room, pausing every now and then to listen to an interesting conversation or to gaze maybe just a bit too long at another guest.

Should he be noticed, he just offers a warm smile, a nod, and moves on. Perhaps he's looking for someone, perhaps he's hoping to recognize a familiar voice. It's hard to say. For the moment, he seems content to just mingle without actually mingling.

It is a spectacular party as the master of the house wanted it to be. Just as his costume is spectacular in every way a caterpillar theme truly can be, but in his arms rests a very well-behaved dachshund, dressed in a beautiful butterfly costume. Purple and azure wings, garland and glitter and even some careful makeup makes it very eye-catching.

Mr. Caterpillar joins Chichi Lee near the doors to the splendid ballroom. "Did our Queen of Hearts find the tarts?" He asks, casually. He had really just intended to make casual conversation, but a second later he bursts out laughing. "Don't answer that." Federico, in his arms, just silently looks those big, expressive eyes up.

When the costumed volunteer with the candle opens the door to announce the arrival of "The Fool," said figure arrives in the room with a hop, a skip, and a--well, it ''is'' a jump, just that it has a cartwheel worked into the middle of it. He lands with a twirl, sleeves fluttering around him like banners, dipping a bow with one leg sweeping out to the side and arms (and those voluminous sleeves) spread wide, then pulls up to a standing position, adjusts his tunic, and starts to roam.

Mr. Caterpillar and The Queen of Hearts are certainly given another, more courtly bow, and the butterfly pupper gets a nice scritch if he seems to want it. Then The Fool holds up the colorful lollipop the queen gave him like a scepter as he makes his way through the room, greeting partygoers like old friend whether he knows them well or has never seen them before in his life.

With the masks, who can even be sure, anyway?

Spotting a guy with a uniquely familiar look and a fetching costume, The Fool draws near to stand on tiptoe and whisper in his ear, "I think you forgot something!" Then, with a little laugh, he dances off again. And he even resisted the temptation to tug on the tail. It must be a holiday. As he slips away, he moves past The Emerald Fox, reaching over to slip the lollipop into the man's coat lapel like a flower.

"King of the Otherworld, Arawn." The tall dark and imposing figure enters the ballroom when announced and his pale eyes scan over the room. His dark cloak billows behind him, and it's almost as if the shadows cling to him as he walks. It's a far stretch from what he normally wears, but he is comfortable in the outfit and walks though the room as if this is something he wears every day.

Drinks are the first order of the evening and find something dark and rich to sip on while he eyes the dance floor. It's clear he is itching to join the revelry, but is for the moment enjoying being imposing and stoic.

The Queen of Hearts, between greeting the new arrivals, leans over to gently elbow Mr. Caterpillar and declares in a surprisingly spot-on impression of Verna Felton, "Tarts?! In this company? Don't be ridiculous! We're spoiled for tarts, treacle puddings, and saucy lads all around!" She lets out a booming laugh, while producing a treat from somewhere within the depths of her bosom to offer Federico.

"Doctor Inferno" looks up from attempting various wardrobe adjustments, but finally settles for buttoning his jacket. It doesn't accomplish much to address his predicament. Just as he's seemingly satisfied with the solution and preparing to rejoin the festivities, he's interrupted by a quip from a twirling, jaunty Fool. "...forgot? What did..."

But he's distracted even more by the sight of the Fool's departure.

The steampunk demon reaches up to grab at one of the lenses affixed to the goggles on his top hat, pulling the thing out on a brass armature and peering through it with one glowing yellow eye. "I would know /those/ thighs anywhere," he murmurs while his tail twirls behind him with a surge of sleuthing excitement. "The game's afoot! Or at least aleg."

Federico, naturally, takes it with grace and eats it as a genteel man would. Mr. Caterpillar waves a little at all the new arrivals as they come into the ballroom, having his chuckle with Chichi. "Wow, it looks like we've got one of the most exciting crowds in years! Not to put down anyone who came last year, but everyone's got a fierce look this year! It's next level!"

The butterfly dachshund gives a soft sound of agreement, quietly between them.

"Entirely true!" The Queen of Hearts booms, and the grand monarch is indeed easily identified by locals as Miss Chichi Lee in a remarkably elaborate getup of sequins and corsets and bustles and trains and a startling amount of simulated dÃ©colletage. "Sending out those extra invitations was brilliant! I'm so chuffed I shan't even cut off any heads!"

The Emerald Fox looks surprised to suddenly find a lollipop on his person. Glancing at the retreating form of The Fool, a puzzled look crosses his face momentarily as he casually slides it out of his pocket. His mouth twists into amusement as he looks around for somewhere to put the lollipop, finally shrugging and just holding it in one hand while he continues to move throughout the room.

He wanders over toward where Mr. Caterpillar is holding the dachshund. "Good evening! Mind if I pet your puppy? What an adorable look." His smile is bright and cheerful. And he's still trying to figure out what to do with that lollipop, but he'll figure it out eventually.

The Fool's fluttery tunic hardly ever seems to settle enough to conceal any measure of those thighs, and the fishnet tights aren't exactly hiding anything in particular, so for anyone who knows thighs and things especially well, it's fair that maybe the disguise...isn't. Despite this, said Fool mimes blowing a kiss at Doctor Inferno quite cheerily, playing fully into his ostensible anonymity, casting a look back at the Emerald Fox, then dancing off again with a laugh.

When The Fool spots the arrival of Arawn he lets out a bright giggle, declaring, "Ooh, more royalty!"

And then he's dancing his way through the crowd, leaving hardly a ripple of fluttering fabric in his wake, until he can dip another grand bow to Arawn, declaring in a playful falsetto, "Your infernal highness! Welcome to the party! I am but a humble guest, yet still I feel I must welcome such an imposing person as yourself, especially in a season that so befits your dark decadence!"

As the Emerald Fox approaches, Mr. Caterpillar grins and adjusts his mask slightly. Federico, in his arms, sits up a bit straighter, as if anticipating what is inevitably asked. "Oh, feel free! He loves attention. Just don't smear his eyeshadow."

And Mr. Caterpillar chuckles after that, but it's a casual chuckle that more seems to say that he's not entirely kidding. Federico gives a hopeful little smile as he looks up at the Emerald Fox, his eyes so deep and expressive. And well-accented, with eyeshadow that goes with the magnificent wings. "His name's Federico, I'm Hector. Welcome to the Lodge!" It's pretty logical that he wouldn't really try to conceal himself too much at this party he's hosting, but their costumes look like they were given a lot of thought.

Arawn looks at the queen with the hint of a smirk on his dark lips. "Is it really a party if there isn't a least one decapitation?" His voice is deep and rumbling, and he brings his wine to his lips when he spots the Fool and their motley. He raises one dark brow at the bow and follows it with a bow of his head.

"Flattery gets you everywhere little cellweiriwr." The word flows easily off of his tongue, giving fully into his role, and where he sourced it from. This is his favorite time of year after all so he had to go all out. "I hope you're not shopping around for a new monarch to entertain. I do not think you'd survive well in my kingdom. Though it may be entertaining to watch."

Standing beside Hector, alias Mr. Caterpillar, The Queen of Hearts extends one large, flawlessly manicured hand to The Emerald Fox. The long, sharp nails glitter with a metallic shine as they catch the light, and she declares, "EnchantÃ©, my dear and ''dearly'' fantastic mister fox! This may be the caterpillar's party, but as the reigning queen of the event, please let me offer you something sweet!" And with that, she presents the pumpkin basket of various candies.

She does catch that line from Arawn, though, and responds by producing a fan from...somewhere...and expanding it with a snap, fluttering long, sparkling lashes at him across the room coquettishly without missing a beat in her conversation.

"Doctor Inferno" proceeds to meander and mingle, taking care to keep his tail from thwapping recklessly against anyone as he passes through. For those who haven't met him, the overall costume would look quite convincingly devilish, right down to the glow from his eyes. They must be really fancy contacts or something?

As he wanders he finds someone handing out wine and takes a small sip of it.

As he turns his head toward an empty space and exhales, a hint of blue flame passes his lips. "Ah... a bit boozy. Must be a hot vintage!"

The Fool looks Arawn up and down appreciatively, reaching up with one black-gloved hand to mime stroking the chin of his harlequin mask. "Well that's a ''tempting'' idea, your horrifishness, but a wandering fool has to stay free, doesn't he? I will heed your warning! If I can ever entertain your darkly majestic self, though, I would be ''well and truly'' pleased to serve--and, since you mention it, I'm ''always'' entertaining to watch!"

Glancing out over the crowd again, he spots Doctor Inferno again, rising up on his toes once more as he draws himself to Arawn's side, gesturing out toward the fire-breathing devil-man. "Is he one of yours, sire?" The Fool wonders aloud. "He surely looks the type to entertain, and even in a court of dark wonders, someone like that might turn a head or three!" Then, in a lower voice, he adds, "I wonder what he's drinking? I suddenly want to...taste."

The Emerald Fox does reach out to pet Federico, being careful not to ruin the puppy's makeup. "Nice to meet you both." Turning to include the Queen in his statement. "It's a lovely party, I am enjoying seeing all the costumes." As the pumpkin basket is offered, he peeks inside. "You know, I have this lollipop someone handed me that I've no idea what to do with. Might have to give it to someone. But I see a delicious looking butterscotch in there I'm gonna nab." Picking up the small candy, he pops the butterscotch into his mouth, smiles faintly at the pair, and moves off once more.

To be petted thoughtfully is one of Federico's great joys, if his expression is any indication. He does seem to put up with a lot and still remains polite during larger social events like this.

"Oh, that looks good! Someone gave it to you?" Mr. Caterpillar takes a look at the lollipop held up before him. "They must be getting into the spirit of the festivities! That's the kind of energy I like to see around here!"

Federico gives an emphatic but not impolitely loud bark of support.

Queen Chichi Lee of Hearts blows kisses after the departing Emerald Fox, then produces another treat for Federico, agreeing with him, "Well said, fair butterfly!" Noting that most of the guests seem to have arrived, she hip-bumps Hector, winking behind her mask, and then starts to make her way around the room, greeting guests and giving out goodies, making sure everyone gets a chance for a royal encounter and a dip into the candy basket.

Arawn bows his head to the queen, giving her reverence in her own kingdom. He smirks down at the fool before tilting his head. "I suppose you could entertain me in the mortal world. There is nothing against the rules about sampling how the mortals live." He laughs at the last comment and nods his head. "Yes, I do believe that you are."

Looking toward the devilish man, he shakes his head. "You have me confused with another religion. However, he would be more than welcome to grace my kingdom anytime." At the conspiratory whisper, the tall man leans down and nods his head. "I hear wine tastes far sweeter from someone else's lips. Shall we find out?" He gestures toward Doctor Inferno with his taloned fingertips.

The Fool's mask makes it impossible to see what expression he might wear in response to Arawn's proposal, but he steps back to offer another sweeping bow, gesturing toward "Doctor Inferno" grandly, and there's bright mirth in his voice as he says, "A most ''splendid'' notion, your eventide eminence!" He then leaps forward, spreading his arms wide and flaring those sleeves even wider, parading toward the devilish man and very pointedly ''making way'' for the darkly majestic figure of the otherworldly king.

When he happens to pass near The Emerald Fox, The Fool will try to casually catch him by the arm and sweep him up into their entourage, declaring as he goes, "Make way! Make way for His Shadowclad Spleandor!" Apparently, whomever The Fool really is, he's enjoying getting into the part.

"Doctor Inferno" mostly loiters, very wallflower-like, at the fringes of the party. He looks around with amused interest at all the different costumes, mentally taking notes on some of the more elaborate or technically-challenging constructions.

He continues sipping at the wine, taking care to tilt his head up when he needs to burn off some of the excess alcohol.

So far he seems oblivious that anyone might be looking his way, as busy as the place is with all its lights and sounds.

Now and then as he lazily bops to the music, his tail swings out wide behind him, inadvertently forcing a passerby to duck or weave out of the way.

Mr. Caterpillar gets a little thrown off by coincidence of moving when Chichi Lee hip-checks him, but he recovers instantly thanks to Federico being attentive and shifting his weight ever so slightly. The caterpillar and his butterfly passenger remain agreeably around, floating from one part to another. It's probably Arawn and the Fool there that give him the most reason to keep an eye on them, but he can't help looking around to appreciate all the grand costumes. They really are next level this year!

Kieran arrives from the west: Hall.

The Emerald Fox suddenly finds himself caught up in something, he's not quite sure -what- that something is because he was in the middle of listening to a fascinating (sort of) conversation about someone's prized guinea pig (he didn't even know that was a thing). As he finishes his butterscotch, he glances at The Fool. "You're awfully excited tonight. I suppose it would make sense for The Fool to be the life of the party and the entertainment." There's a playful smirk to his lips at that last comment. "Although more tarot and less jester, in this case."

He glances over his shoulder at Arawn, who The Fool is apparently escorting... somewhere. "Good evening," he greets the tall man with a smile. "Rather imposing outfit you've got there. Very nicely put together, I do say." Looking in the direction they are walking, because he hasn't quite disentangled himself from The Fool as of yet, he asks "Uh... where exactly are we going?" He takes the opportunity to slide the lollipop he has no idea what to do with into the belt loop of a passing person dressed as a peacock. It's a nice peacock outfit, really, the lollipop will just add to it. Surely!

It is hard not to be amused by The Fool, and despite trying to be dark and brooding, Arawn cracks a grin. "I am full of splendid notions. I am sure the rest will reveal themselves as the night progresses." He cannot help but fall into the part as he imposingly follows not only the fool, but Mr. Fox as well. "The more the merrier I've always said."

"Your flattery is appreciated and will earn you favor later; I am sure." Arawn responds as he continues to sweep across the room. "We are off to court the favor of a devil. Or at the very least taste his wine. Either from his glass or his lips, I am not meticulous. Neither is our little cellweiriwr. A jester must be free to do as he wishes after all."

The Fool, looping arms with The Emerald Fox, marches right up to Doctor Inferno, raising one hand with a flourish. Clearing his throat theatrically, he announces, "A-''hem''! Presenting the darkly delicious King of the Underworld, His Menacing-yet-marvelous Majesty, Arawn! You are a devil now truly blessed, for his royal dishiness desires to sample your wine!" This last is delivered with a pointed, suggestive flick of his hips, which will almost certainly send them crashing affectionately into those of the fox.

The goal, of course, is to move them both dramatically out of the way, just in time to reveal Arawn's impressive countenance. And if it means he ends up half on top of the fox, well, who can complain about that? It's a very friendly party, after all.

It's fashionable to be late, or at least that's what the Drunken Leprechaun claims to anyone who might otherwise mention his tardiness. When he steps through the entry, one hand grasping at the moulding either for support or just to drape himself for a moment. His green eyes scan the room as an attendant approaches and leans in to whisper to him.

After a brief consultation, the attendant turns and clears his throat, "The Drunken Leprechaun," comes the announcement, and when it's complete, said leprechaun makes his way in, a rather erratic gait to his movements evidenced. Taking a drink from the glass of amber colored liquid he carries, the Drunken Leprechaun steps into the grand ballroom, his eyes alight upon seeing the Queen of Hearts nearby.

"Doctor Inferno" looks around from his aimless people-watching at the commotion around the Fool and Arawn-- and an Emerald Fox swept up in the tide, apparently. It takes him another couple of moments to discern they seem to be heading in his direction. Right toward him, even, and driving a wedge through the crowd as they go.

The steampunk devil looks to one side, then the other, and finally behind him as he tries to figure out where this motley trio might be heading. Oh!

The Doctor spins around to poke and knock at the wall as if expecting to find a secret door. Now wouldn't that be exciting?

But no, there's no door.

Perplexed, the devilish Doctor pulls down another of his brass-framed lenses from his top hat to look through it and give the wall a deeper examination. Sonar; infrared; quantum flux? Nope.

Finally when he hears the Fool announce his presence, Doctor Inferno wheels back around, nearly (but not quite) slapping the Fool across the nose with his tail. He takes another sip. Well, a gulp of wine, as he takes in the whole introduction. "Oh. Uh. Hi!" he says, with a nervous smile. "This wine? I mean, sure, if you want, but. There's... plenty of it..." His voice has a little more of a rasp to it than it might otherwise, and he has to turn to the side to let out a few flaming coughs. "Sorry, it's a hot vintage," he explains before taking another, messier slurp. "It makes more sugar, and then more alcohol, which-- you know, it's not important."

The devilish Doctor purses his lips a little as faint flares of yellow glow on his cheeks. "Sorry. Nice to meet you! Great outfits, too."

The Queen of Hearts, better known as local celebrity drag queen Miss Chichi Lee, presents the leprechaun with her pumpkin-shaped basket of candy, declaring in booming tones, "Welcome to the ball, my good fellow! I'd tell you to eat, drink, and be merry, but in my royal assessment, you've already begun two of the three--so join in our revelry, and bring your joyful manner to all and sundry!" She leans in to wink, adding in a low voice, "Welcome to the party, sweet thing!"

After a few minutes of milling about the room, Mr. Caterpillar and the illustrious Butterfly end up back around the Queen of Hearts, the unmistakable Chichi Lee. Federico looks more relaxed than Mr. Caterpillar, ostensibly their host, looks, and he looks pretty chill. When the Leprechaun comes along, Mr. Caterpillar raises a hand and wiggles the fingers in greeting. He's not as dazzling as Chichi Lee, but he's okay with that because after all, who is? "Welcome to the ball, Lucky!"

The Emerald Fox does indeed get bumped out of the way by The Fool as they reach Doctor Inferno, the hip-check surprisingly reacted to almost a moment before it hits him as the Emerald Fox smoothly glides in the same direction he'd otherwise have been bumped in. There's a certain grace to it, like someone with practiced movement in a great degree of control of his body.

Meanwhile, he looks onward as Doctor Inferno seems a bit flustered as they reach him. "Hi there!" he says in a friendly way. "What are you having?" he eyes the Doctor's glass curiously.

Once they arrive in front of Doctor Inferno, Arawn raises his brow and looks to the fool. "It was you who desired to taste his wine. I just suggested that you try it from his lips instead of his cup." Though watching the 'devil' in front of him, he tilts his head. His stormy eyes swirl as he takes him in and turns back to the Fool. "Do you think it's wise for me to corrupt him?" He teases lightly. "Also, I didn't know the wine here was so potent."

Worried that he's coming off as a little too intimidating he nods his head. "Thank you, I've been putting it together for a few weeks. I think it turned out well. I like yours as well, this place could use a little more steam punk." He looks between the fool and the fox with a smirk. "I do hope you'll all join me on the floor later. I hear the mortals know how to dance."

The delivery of candy puts a smile upon the Drunken Leprechaun's face. "Well, I'd not be livin' up to me'name if t'weren't true!" The thick Irish accent comes through his words, as does the tell-tale slur of one obviously past his first or second drink of the night. With a rather agile bow, the Leprechaun blows a kiss to the Queen. "Your majesty knows just how to throw a proper ball!"

The waved fingers from the Caterpillar draw his gaze and he tips his hat rather boldly, "That's yet to be seen me'good Caterpillar. Let's see what's the craic!"

He turns to the others nearby, taking in several great masquerade costumes, lifting his glass to The Fool and The Doctor Inferno, and their companion Aran before he takes a few more measured steps forward.

The Fool looks back to Arawn, lets out a light laugh, then gestures to his mask. "Would that I could, your imperial imposition, but without lips, how can I appreciate the fine flavors and textures on offer? Surely this is a sip fit for a king!" He lightly elbows in The Emerald Fox's direction, since it seems likely said fox is nimble enough to evade if he'd like, and then adds in a stage whisper, "Do you think that tail is real? And how annoyed do you think he'd be if I tugged it? I ''really'' wanna tug it."

Somehow amidst the whirl of activity, he spots Lucky the Drunk Leprechaun raising his glass, and he hops up in the air, clicking his heels together, to blow a kiss back at him! Quick as he is, he throws in bonus kisses for Hector and Federico, too! When he lands, he turns his attention back to the Doctor and the King, clearly hoping to inspire some kind of interlude between them.

"Doctor Inferno" lifts a hand up to wiggle his fingers in greeting to Emerald Fox. Oh, he's even got sharp black little claws on his fingers; true dedication to the costume, perhaps?

"Hi! Oh, I'm having the ''wine''," he answers. "It's, uhhh... it's the red one." One of his claws tinktinks on the side of the glass, nodding as if his answer was at all helpful. "It's good, though."

He remains quite perplexed at the way Arawn and the Fool seem to be talking about ''him'' for some reason, but he carries on taking tiny, thoughtful sips from his glass. And, sure, a few drops remain on his lips, drying out swiftly from the excess heat. Now and then he darts his tongue out to gather up some of the caramelized drips. "Oh, I'm not a very good dancer, sorry. Plus, you know, the tail. Got a mind of its own sometimes!"

Even now it loops and whirls with nervous agitation.

The Doctor pivots his head to peer curiously at the Fool. Those brightly-glowing eyes flicker with slow blinks. "It's real," he answers as the odd, luminous blush spreads on his cheeks again.

Finally he takes in a slow breath, another glug of wine. He steps closer to the trio in front of him and the tail swings around to swat the Fool on the leg. "Why wouldn't it be real? It's not part of my costume," he adds with seemingly genuine confusion.

It's at just that moment when the apparition arrives.

With the party in full swing, nobody seems to notice when yet another fabulously dressed figure makes her way into the room. Even when she climbs to the top of the steps and moves out onto the stage, nobody might have noticed, except she walks right through the drummer and his kit, leading him to turn pale, and then the singer steps aside, looking wary. The woman, who seems old yet somehow ageless, is wearing an elaborate look, every inch of which says "witch," from her curl-tipped boots to her pointy, floppy hat, to the purple and black cloak and the blood red dress that falls in cascading flows around her. Then there's the broomstick in her hand, which is a bit of a dead giveaway.

She calls attention to herself by rapping the non-bristled end of the broomstick against the ground loudly, three times. The music stops, the crowd turns her way, and The Queen of Hearts, Miss Chichi Lee, gasps, then announces in her booming tones, "It's Elenora Moonshadow! Her spirit hasn't appeared in over a century!"

How does Chcichi know this? Well, one might have to ask, but...she's a drag queen. They sashay and they know things.

Federico is delighted, Hector is happy, and the two wave back to the leaping Fool! Mr. Butterfly reaches his hand to lightly pet at the top of the butterfly-dachshund's head. When the Leprechaun seems to question whether or not his luck will be good, Hector pauses for a second. But just for a second. "Oh, no. No, definitely." He breaks into a grin.

Then a ghost, maybe, appears, and he turns with Federico held a little closer, a bit more protectively as they look on and listen. It is really festive. Was this all because of the extra invitations they sent out? You can't buy this kind of event!

The Emerald Fox doesn't actually dodge the light elbow jab, smirking faintly at The Fool's stage whispering about Doctor Inferno's tail. "You know, that might get you into a heap more trouble than it would be worth." He glances between the Doctor and the Fool, eyebrows furrowing as if in deep thought. "Huh. Well, you heard the man. It's not part of the costume. That means-" The Fox is interrupted by the appearance of a woman on the stage. A woman that seems to command attention and... did the drag queen just say spirit? Wait, what?

The rather graceful leap by The Fool draws a cheerful "Slainte!" from The Drunken Leprechaun and he marks the occasion with another drink from his glass, savoring the rich taste of the drink, possibly Bourbon or Whiskey by the aroma. "Always be rushin' in I see!" he calls out with only the hint of a slur in his voice.

That's when the sudden arrival of Elenora happens, and the green-eyed Leprechaun directs his attention to the stage with the others. 'Now that's how ye be makin' an entrance!" The Leprechaun starts to clap, realizes one hand is occupied and instead hoots out a few choice Irish exclamations and swirls his glass, hearing the declaration by Hector, grinning widely as he twirls in place, his tuxedo tails flowing as he makes his way through the crowd towards the stage, where others are in hushed whispers and excited murmuring about the sudden spirit.

Glancing from Doctor Inferno to the Emerald Fox, The Fool tilts his head, and then he starts to slowly reach toward that tail, as if hypnotically drawn to it and unable to resist the urge to try to catch it and tug on it. Being swatted on the thigh by it only seems to enhance this desire, as he bounces on his toes with clear interest...

...only for a witch's ghost or the like to appear dramatically and completely change the tone of the moment from enticing to...intriguing? Spinning around to face the stage, The Fool...doesn't immediately have any clever remark to offer. Instead he just watches, suddenly quite still and focused, as if poised to react to whatever this new presence might mean. Could it all just be part of the party?

"Doctor Inferno" tilts his head toward the arrival of a witch. "Spirit? Oh, I love a good hologram trick. Or even a Pepper's Ghost. Gotta love the classics. I bet I can find the projectors!" He pulls down one lens after another from his top hat, each brass frame on its own armature. But after a few tries, the Doctor seems disappointed not to have found what he was looking for.

He nods quickly to Emerald Fox and explains, "The outfit, it's, you know, from the comics. I spent most of yesterday making the clockworks for the hat. But some of these optics must still be messed up..."

The tail continues slapping lightly on the Fool's leg. With the Doctor's distraction by the sudden change in the room, the tail merrily twirls around and thumps against the Fool's backside a couple of times, or even swats against the Fox's leg too.

Mind of its own, that's what he said!

Arawn furrows his brows at the Devil and the Fool. "I highly doubt any form of store-bought tail would react so fluidly." Arwen comments and nods to the Devil. "I believe he's hopping we kiss, which I am not at all against, but I am only interested in people who are interested in me." He pauses for a beat before he lowers his voice. "And no, there isn't a queen waiting for me in the Otherworld who would take vengeance upon you."

Granted before they can go any further, a ghost appears on the stage. Turning away from the group he narrows his eyes a bit, wondering if this is an elaborate illusion. He knows a lot about those. The queen of Hearts seems to think otherwise so he quiets down for the moment, returning to his glass of wine.

As if sensing the attention of the assemblage upon her, Elenora raises her free hand, her eyes flashing, and then begins to speak in clear, ringing tones that call to mind Broadway performers more than they do ghosts, but at least it's easy to hear her.

"Blessings on this house," the witch declares, "and heed me well! I come to tell the Legend of Hollow Grove."

:In a town where whispers weave through the trees,
:On an island cloaked in autumn's gentle breeze,
:Lies Hollow Grove, where shadows dance and play,
:A treasure awaits on this fateful day.

:Beneath the harvest moons watchful eyes,
:The spirits of old rise, like ghosts in the skies.
:They guard a secret, both ancient and bold,
:A tale of the brave, of treasures untold.

:Through cobwebbed halls of the Old Town Hall,
:Where echoes of history beckon to all,
:Seek the heroes whose stories have passed,
:For in their legends, your adventure is cast.

:Beyond the gravestones, where memories dwell,
:In the heart of the cemetery, youll hear a soft bell.
:Count the years on the stone, where the brave laid to rest,
:The path to the treasure awaits your quest.

:In the barn where scarecrows keep watch through the night,
:Search the shadows, hold your lanterns tight.
:For in the rafters, a clue will be found,
:Leading you deeper where magic abounds.

:When you reach Hollow Grove, let the moonlight enfold,
:Whisper your wish, let the story unfold.
:For there lies the treasure, beneath ancient oak,
:In the heart of the grove, where legends are spoke.

:So gather your courage, your friends by your side,
:On this Halloween journey, let spirits be your guide.
:For in the realm of the brave and the free,
:The treasure of Hollow Grove waits, just for thee.

With this, Elenora gives a nod, looking quite satisfied--and then flings back her head, letting out a truly iconic ''cackle'', before she is pulled upwards and away, climbing aboard her broom, and for a moment it looks like she aims to crash right through the window--

And in a sense, she does, only the window is unharmed. She passes through it harmlessly, leaving all as it was in her wake, more or less.

It's quiet for a few short moments, before Mr. Caterpillar carefully, keeping Federico nestled in the crook of one arm, begins to applaud.

As the party's host begins to clap, Miss Chichi Lee recovers from her surprise enough to join in, calling out after the departing witch, or spirit, or witch-spirit, "Brava! Just exactly the special touch all the best parties have!"

The Drunken Leprechaun's mouth hangs agape at the end of the spirit's tale,then too joins in the applause, cries of "Slainte!" ringing out from his lips, wetted between outbursts by a quick sip from his glass.

The Fool takes this all in, staying quite still for the whole poetic delivery, and then when the witch's ghost departs, he watches after where she went for a long moment, then slowly turns around...and reaches out to try to catch Doctor Inferno's tail in one hand, intent on giving it a light, playful little tug.

"Hmmm," he muses. "This thing could be...fun to play with, I bet." Then, as if all in the same thought, he adds, "So, the witch's spirit just challenged us to a treasure hunt? Now that's a plot twist I can get behind. This place is even more exciting than I thought." He turns toward the fox, then to Arawn, and says, "We're definitely hunting for that, right? I don't even care if we can keep it. It just sounds like ''fun''."

If he's managed to capture Inferno's tail, he's definitely hanging on to that if he's able.

The Emerald Fox looks at the other nearby guests with confusion. "I... didn't see that coming. A ghost and a riddle. Huh." Looking around at the others, he shrugs his shoulders. "I suppose... that means there's a mystical scavenger hunt? Interesting. Kind of appropriate for the season, too, I suppose."

He glances down at the Doctor's tail when it slaps against him, his hand instinctively reaching for it but stopping just shy of grabbing it. But that's okay because the Fool is trying the same thing. That tail is going to end up in -someone's- grip sooner or later. He rubs his chin thoughtfully. "I don't know much about this area. Could be fun."

"Doctor Inferno" is snapped out of his investigation by Arawn's comment, turning to give him a few blinks. "A kiss? Oh! Well, uh. I mean, it is a party. I just. Um. I'm a little warm, is all. But, uh. Sure? Is he always trying to fix you up with people? What a good friend he is," he decides, giving the Fool a curious glance.

Before he has much time to puzzle over all that he goes quiet along with everyone else to take in the performance.

When it's all over he's clipping his wine glass in one of the brass armatures on his hat so he can join the applause. "Very nice effects work," he adds in a low voice to those near to him. "Usually I can find the projectors, but they must have them shielded or something. How extravagant!"

As he reaches up to reclaim his wine glass he finds his tail suddenly ensnared by the Fool's fingers. The exposed end continues to twitch lightly, the spade flaring and contracting.

It sure is a lot warmer than any prop should be.

"It does sound like fun, but you might have to let go of me unless you intend to follow me around to all the clues," the Doctor says. He's still blushing a little, that eerie yellow glow in his cheeks and across his nose, but there's just enough of a smirk on his lips to show off one of those tiny demonic fangs.

The Doctor leans to lightly prod the Emerald Fox with his elbow. "I don't know the place either! That'll make things more difficult, but maybe more fun? Or we'll just get lost in the fog."

Arawn listens to the clues given by the ghost and commits it to memory as best as he can. Once she is finished, he lowers his boice and chuckles to himself. "And people say I'm verbose."

"First you try and pawn me off on your friends, and now you want me to take you galivanting around town to hunt down a treasure? You really are a demanding cellweiriwr." Though he doesn't seem against the idea. Turning back to the Doctor, Arawn quirks his brow at how much he stumbling over his words, and the way his cheeks are nearly yellow. "All in due course then. No worries, I can lead, and I will not curse you for stepping on my toes. He replies before smirking at the Fool.

"I suppose it would be an effective way to learn the town, a blind treasure hunt. I'll help where I can, I have visited here often."

With his applause dying down, the Drunken Leprechaun takes another sip, glancing at his glass with bewilderment. "I think some is gone!" he slurs out, swirling the glass as if he were looking at the greatest mystery in the world. "That cannae be!" The wide-eyed expression on the Leprechaun's face is priceless, and he takes first one, then another tentative sip from the glass and sure enough each time the level of liquid goes down. "What curse is this upon me!" He asks several guests to verify that indeed the amber liquid is going down with each sip, and a lamented groan passes his lips with each affirmative.

Glancing around, the Leprechaun eyes the other guests, wondering which of them may have had a hand in this witchery...The Fool? Perhaps....The Infernal Doctor? Possibly...surely not Hector, nor the Caterpillar, but one can never be too careful. "It seems I'll shall 'ave to embark upon this quest for treasure now, me'self...for me'drink is low and my mind is clearin' and I cannae abide either of those!"

Miss Chichi Lee snags a glass of champaign and a knife, raising her eyebrows at Hector, then makes her way up to the stage, where the band members are still looking pretty baffled. She steps up to the mic, tapping the glass gently for attention, then calls out, "Hello, party people! We were planning to wait for midnight to unmask, but under the circumstances, we know a lot of you are going to want to rush off and start exploring, so let's just go ahead and do that now! If you do decide to look into the ghost's mysterious challenge, then please make sure to bring a friend, be safe, and don't do anything stupid! We'd rather you didn't have to participate in the festivities as a ghost! So, bottoms up boys, and happy hunting!" With that, she withdraws her mask, revealing her flawlessly applied makeup, complete with a heart pattern in tiny gemstones around one eye. Then she raises her glass, puts it to her lips, and drains it in one go.

Soon enough, she's making her way back into the crowd, the band's playing again, and the party is back in full swing. What's another mystery between friends?

"Oh, is it time?" asks The Fool, and then seeing the Queen of Hearts unmask, he gives a little shrug and says, "Oh, well. I suppose it is!" Then, giving the Doctor's tail one last playful tug, he lets it go. Striking a pose with one hand in the air and the other gripping his mask, he takes a dramatic pause...and then he pulls off his mask and cowl in separate directions, taking one more bow.

When The Fool stands again, unmasked, it's Sly who shakes his hair out a bit and says, "Phew! Okay, now ''that's'' done, I am ''deeply'' in need of a beverage. Who has wine or something, and am I drinking it from your glass or from your lips? Not feeling picky, just parched!" He looks around to the others nearby hopefully, a playful grin on his face. Each of those around him gets a pointed look of--well, if not quite challenge, certainly pointed interest.

The Fool unmasks himself, revealing his identity as: Sly.

The Drunken Leprechaun grins "Unmasking? Wait, we were suppose to be wearin' masks?" With a gleeful laugh, the Leprechaun finishes off his drink before pulling off his masquerade mask.

Drunken Leprechaun unmasks himself, revealing his identity as: Kieran.

The Fools unmasked offer draws the emerald eyes of Kieran and he winks, "If you've the drink, lad, I've a mind to enjoy it from either of those places!"

The Emerald Fox looks at the others thoughtfully. "Well. It sounds like it could be fun and, yeah, a way to explore the area. We might as well, right? The Queen said we could." As everyone begins to unmask themselves, the Fox reaches up and removes his green sequined mask. "I suppose I might get a drink as well. Water, that is. If we're going to do a bunch of walking around."

The Emerald Fox unmasks himself, revealing his identity as: Rykard del Santo.

Well since everyone else is taking off their mask, Arawn reaches underneath his hair to untie the ribbon on his mask. He pulls it off his mask and slides it into some hidden pocket in his cloak. Goth is not normally Arawn's look, but he's pulling it off well.

When Sly takes off his mask he smirks, and Rykard also gets a knowing glance. They have met at least once before. At Sly's insistence, he holds his wine glass toward him, but before he can take it he takes it back to polish it off and sets the glass on a near by table. Once the wine is swallowed, he smirks. "I suppose it'll have to be from my lips then." It's his own voice now, instead of the illusion of something deeper and darker he's been doing all night.

Arawn unmasks himself, revealing his identity as: Taliesin.

'Doctor Inferno' looks back and forth between Arawn, Fool, and the Emerald Fox, all very curious about their interactions. He continues to take tiny sips from his wine-- though by now he'll surely need a refill. "Oh, sure, if you've been here before that'll help a lot," he agrees.

He's unhurried, making a minor jolt when the Fool gives his tail that extra tug. He breathes in, but it's not at all a pained or angry sort of expression on him.

He watches the others taking their masks off and, with a shrug, peels the domino mask off from around his eyes.

"Ta-da! And, hey, she did say bottoms up," he adds in a quip to the trio nearest to him. So he knocks a heavy gulp of wine into his mouth and stays there, cheeks puffed out a little, almost like a drunk squirrel, as a few drips of wine escape past his lips.

Doctor Inferno unmasks himself, revealing his identity as: Kid Devil.

Mr. Caterpillar unmasks himself, revealing his identity as: Hector.

Sly's bright silver eyes glitter with delight as the masks start to come off, and he first swaggers up to Taliesin, saying in a liltingly playful tone, "Oh, my ''king''!" Then, he'll rise again on his tiptoes to offer Taliesin a friendly yet quite shamelessly passionate kiss, hands sliding up his chest, and lingers there for a moment before pulling back, licking his lips, and musing, "Hmm. Still thirsty."

At that, Sly turns, probably not at all accidentally letting his backside brush up against Taliesin, before he struts up to Kid Devil, reaching up to steal another kiss and, if it comes with some of that wine, he hardly seems inclined to complain. He definitely goes for a tug of that tail again, too. Sly hardly seems like one who's inclined to rein in his impulses and desires. He gives the former doctor equal attention, and when he pulls back, licking his lips, he turns to gaze over his shoulder at Rykard, giving a wicked little smile.

"Hello, foxy," he calls over. "I don't know you yet, but if we're hunting for treasure together, we should get acquainted, right? I'm Sly." It's clearly said as a name, though it hardly seems difficult to imagine that it might also be intended as an adjective.

Kid Devil looks around at the other masks coming off, but he evidently doesn't recognize most of them. Sly, at least, gets a puffy-cheeked smile of acknowledgement from their previous encounter.

When he's kissed he makes a muffled squeak as he carefully tries to share some of that mouthful of wine, on top of the intense latent heat that seems to emanate from his body.

When it's all done he's flushed with yellow glow again, licking some stray red drops from his lips, all while his tail wobbles and wiggles against Sly's grasp.

"Oh, right, uh, I'm Eddie," he adds. "I don't think we got around to introductions when we met a couple of weeks ago."

When Sly starts calling him King he purses his lips. "Only for tonight, tomorrow I am back to being a lowly bard." Taliesin isn't shameless with the kiss either. It's clear he doesn't mind the audience. His clawed fingers lightly drag down Sly's thigh as he lifts it up to press himself against him before the kiss breaks. "You're always thirsty."

Taliesin's hands slide down to Sly's hips as he feels him pressing against him, and it's also very clear he does not mind watching him kiss someone else. He is amused by the heated glow on the former Doctor's cheeks, and when he introduces himself, he holds out his hand. "Taliesin, it's a pleasure to meet you, Eddie." The introduction might have been for Sly but he doesn't seem to mind butting in.

Sly, looking between the others, seems quite pleased with this development. "Since we're all friends now," he says with a grin, "I guess it's fair to admit that, yeah, I ''am'' always thirsty, and that ''you'' obviously ''do not mind''." He does pause then, curious about that glow to Eddie's cheeks, and reaches up to touch one, just a light brush of his fingertips. "You have ''such'' a...mm. Such a ''look''. I like."

Turning again to Tali, he reaches to slide his other hand up the bard's chest, smiling knowingly, and says, "And you...need to come stay with me tonight. You both can if you want. I've got lots of room, and I love sexy house guests. You both ''definitely'' qualify. We should probably work on that riddle, but...I mean...hospitality. It's a whole thing, right?"

Kid Devil smiles with full friendly cheer and reaches over to shake Taliesin's hand. "You too!" he replies. "I don't think I've been here before, but it's nice to see everyone's so friendly. Even the ghosts, apparently." He chuckles at this and glances between the others with a relaxed, open expression. "A bard, huh? Is there, uh... there a lot of bard work lately? Barding? Bardology? It seems kind of a very specialized sort of gig. But it sounds like fun. And you must meet the most interesting people."

He goes a little quiet when Sly unexpectedly touches his face. He doesn't recoil or anything, though the flare of light does briefly intensify thanks to the incendiary blood rushing around just under the surface. "Oh, uh, th-thanks, it's. I have a very detailed skin-care routine."

His eyes widen just a little at the unexpected invitation. He rubs at the back of his neck, showing a nervous little smile and those tiny fangs. "Maybe it's the wine talking, but, yeeeah, sure, I didn't have any other plans. And."

His eyes flicker with a few blinks as he looks both of them over again. "Yeah. That sounds fun. You have plenty of fire extinguishers, right?"

There's a beat. Another one.

It's almost five full seconds before he gives a wink and lets out a raucous laugh. "Kidding! I'm kidding. It'll be fine. So is it close enough for walking or do we need our own broomsticks?"

"Why would I mind? Didn't you say a Jester must be free?" Taliesin shrugs, though as Sly gets his attention. His clawed fingers lightly trace over his jawline as he smirks. "Oh I take hospitality very seriously. I would be more than happy to sample yours once more." When the riddle is mentioned, he shrugs his shoulders. "It's not like it's going to grow legs and leave. Not on this side of the mortal plane."

When Eddie asks about his 'job' Taliesin nods. "It's not really a paying gig. I have other sources of income, but I collect stories. Sometimes I turn them into songs. I do meet a lot of interesting people. Present company included." Though as game as Taliesin is for mostly anything, he waits until Eddie agrees before he winks at him. "Excellent. Shall we see how many languages we can make him moan our names in?" He turns to Sly, gesturing for him to lead the way.

Leading the others away, Sly looks to each of them, smirking and says, "Tali, just so we're clear, I am now taking it as a personal challenge to see how loudly I can get ''you'' both to moan ''my'' name." Looking to Eddie, he winks and says, "It's a good stretch of the legs, but I think you're up to it."

Offering one hand to each of the other men, he'll lead them on a good, brisk walk across the island. It's a few miles, and when they reach the western shore, they have to take a boat across the water to to the smaller island where the Silvervine Estate is, but it's a pleasant enough evening for a walk, as long as one doesn't mind the fog.
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