[The draw of the dancefloor is an appealing one, for many reasons. Those who don't mind being the center of attention can wander their way into the spotlight to lose themselves in the beating heart of music and jubilation. For those more accustomed to lingering on the fringes, the opportunity to people watch presents itself, which can be just as socially rewarding as the dancing.
A figure clad in a dark blue cloak has posted himself up by the bar with intent to do the latter, a flute of champagne held loosely within a gloved hand. Beneath the hood an ornate fox mask can be seen, obscuring all but the lower half of a tanned face. His skin is dotted with a smattering of freckles and crossed by two pale scars that slash across the right cheek. A pair of lips pull upwards to smirk around the glass as he takes a sip, letting out a pleased hum at the taste.]
I do so love gatherings such as these. The scale gets grander every year.
★ Synastry ★
[Watching, however, doesn't seem to be enough forever. Should you find yourself lingering by the ballroom floor, you may find a pair of hands suddenly tugging you forward into the throng of twirling dancers. The tempo of the song is fast and unrelenting, and your new companion spins you into position with a barely suppressed chuckle.]
You know how to dance this one, yes? I'll lead, and you can stand on my feet if you don't think you can keep up~
★ Perilune ★
[All dances must come to an end, but luckily there is a whole spread of food to capture the attention when the feet are too tired to keep up. A contemplative noise escapes from beneath hood and mask as he leans forward to examine a slice of chocolate cake, then turns a moment later to consider a bit of cherry pie instead. After a moment's pause, both platters are picked up, and he turns to present the both of them side by side.]
Which of these looks better to you? I can't seem to decide for myself.
[ Mizuki is too curious to not explore the place, not matter if he has to wear stuffy outfits or not. He's slapped on one of the white suits and picked out the mask that appealed to him the most upon entering. Unfortunately for everyone else, the mask that appealed to him the most happens to be a very dramatic and over-the-top piece that probably draws more attention that he ever intended for himself. Whoops.
If you're wondering, "Hey, Mizuki, that looks really hard to see out of," then you're right! He's struggling. He can't imagine how actual jellyfish survive without eyes. If you're also wondering, "Hey, Mizuki, why are you soaked???" then don't worry about this. He may or may not have immediately went over to the food table and found some water to dunk on himself and his nice new suit. He's fine, and everything is okay. He'll just wallflower here until he figures out what's happening— ]
Oh! [ Just kidding. Social interactions are happening. Is he being spoken to? He hopes so. He's making it happen even if it's not. ] It's certainly, um… fancy! Very fancy. Makes me think of those sort of high society parties where they just drink and talk about politics and stuff. Is that what they're talking about?? Is there ghost-y adjacent politics???
[The amused smirk from before remains on his expression, and he shifts to set his drink down on the bar behind him.]
The conversation topics here tonight are nothing as dull as politics, fortunately. [There’s the smallest tilt of his head as he turns just slightly to focus on a pair of Masks nearby. He’s quiet for a moment as he merely… Listens, seemingly taking in the conversation before he’s leaning in closer to Mizuki. Conspiratorial whispers are only fun if no one overhears, after all.]
The one on the left is confiding in the other about a loss of some kind… A brother, or a father perhaps? I didn’t quite catch the relation, but apparently the body was found in the arcade, completely drained of blood.
[ Mizuki does make it easier as he leans in, excited to hear… anything, really, so long as it has something familiar he can grasp onto. Fancy parties are very out of place for a country bumpkin!
But he gives a tiny gasp with stars practically in his eyes afterwards. Not that death is something to be excited about or anything, but… ]
How mysterious! [ Can the Masks hear them? He hopes he is talking quietly enough, himself… ] Like a murder mystery?? That could be fun…!
[He’s quiet for another beat, obviously listening for more as the same Mask goes quiet, the other speaking up in that same untranslatable language. Whatever is said makes him gasp, fingers coming up to press against his lips in exaggerated surprise]
The other one… He says he saw it happen, but didn’t know who to go to. Sounds like… A crime of passion? A scorned lover…
… Oh. [ Well, now he feels silly! He was so excited about potentially learning a new language, too… How cruel! He can't help but fluster a bit at his own gullibility. ] You're certainly very good at story telling, in that case. I'm a little jealous! I wish I could weave stories so captivating.
Also… what do you mean by "game"? [ He likes games!! He's real good at them, too. Maybe he should ask this person if they like Pac-Man— ]
[The smirk on his face isn’t unkind, and he rolls the stem of his champagne flute between his fingers a few more times before he sets it back down.]
Nonsense, Mizuki. There’s nothing to be jealous of, you have many qualities I also find equally admirable. Even so, thank you for the compliment.
[He gives a sort of grand, sweeping gesture towards the rest of the ballroom as a partial answer.] This game. “Court Intrigue,” as they say. For a single night, you can strip yourself of your faults and pretend to be whoever you wish to. Anyone can be anyone under these masks.
Of course I know who you are! How could I not? [There’s not a lot of people who he doesn’t know around here, honestly.]
It’s exactly like that, yes. A limited run of an RPG where you choose your own paths and stories. [But that is an excellent question there, isn’t it? Mizuki earns a thoughtful pause as he turns to watch the dance floor again. The Masks are still spinning together, spiraling in endless steps, round and round…]
Mm, you can call me Helix. As for my role… That remains to be seen.
[ Floyd's already having a pretty good time at this little shindig! And why wouldn't he? It's Halloween! Or at least, it would be back in Twisted Wonderland! One of the biggest holidays needs to be celebrated, and it seems like this park has the right idea!
He's chilling and watching the event, though the organ is going pretty hard right now, maybe he just might--
Oh! He blinks as he's swept up into the arms of this mystery dude. He doesn't question it much though, after all it's a party! He lets out a loud laugh underneath his mask. ]
Aha~ I sure don't know this dance, but that's not gonna stop me. I think you'll find you gotta keep up with me instead!
[The playful grin that had already settled upon the stranger’s features only deepens with absolute delight at the reception, pleased that he seems to have found someone just as willing to cut loose as he is.]
Oh? If you have a different technique in mind, then by all means. [The grip shifts here, changing from the driver’s position to allow Floyd to have the honor instead.] Lead on. I’ll follow.
[ Well, don't mind if he does! It's sometimes rare for let Floyd to take the wheel in things, especially around certain colleagues. That's partly because he's normally around potions that could react wildly to various ingredients if put in all willy-nilly on an almost daily basis, but that's neither here or there. But also, Floyd does what Floyd wants. And right now, he wants to have a good time.
Floyd grins, sharp, pearly whites on display as he leads them both into a dance that doesn't follow the same steps and flourishes as those around them. You could say he's fighting the current with the way he leads them in the opposite direction without hitting anyone in this dance. He's pretty good! ]
Keepin' up? Or should I slow down for ya? [ He snickers. ]
[He's quick and light on his feet, humming along with the music as he follows along with Floyd's steps. There is a sort of lithe, gracefulness to his movements, and he laughs in turn at the other's inquiry.]
This humble fox is enjoying the improvisation, don't you worry. How about you, Floyd Leech? Are you enjoying the festivities tonight? Evenings are such a rare commodity these days.
[ Floyd's brows raise slightly underneath his mask, but he just smirks a little wryly at the name drop as he glides across the floor as well. Who knew such a gangly guy that has only had legs for two years could dance so fluidly? He snickers a little. ]
It's a nice change of pace, that's for sure~. Makes things more fun!
[ Well, as fun as being kidnapped into a haunted amusement park can be, that is. ]
( there's something alarming about the wolf capturing the rabbit for a dance, probably. mafuyu herself, on some level, is aware of the irony at least- but she lets it happen, because of course she does. she's not used to ballroom dancing, but she's a quick learner. it's weird having someone imply she could fail, though. )
[The reply earns her a smile, and he shifts his grip to twirl and spin them both about to the tempo of the music. It's a bit wild, a bit chaotic, yet somehow entirely controlled in a manic sort of way.]
Apologies, I didn't mean to imply a lack of skill. Are you enjoying yourself at the masquerade, Mafuyu Asahina?
[He lets out a hum, lifting his arm up to spin her through it.]
Mm, this must be the one where we haven't met, then. [It's almost muttered under his breath in a thoughtful manner, though his tone picks back up again almost instantly afterward.] Regardless, I'm pleased to see you here. It's not safe out there.
( he does this and she follows through spectacularly as she listens. ...somehow, that doesn't sound unreasonable. even without the confirmation of magic, both home and here, the multiverse theory has always made sense to her. it's just that... well.
You've seen firsthand the cruelty the sun's rays bring, haven't you? [The first question goes unanswered in favor of replying to the second.] I've found that the world is always safer within the arms of the midnight hour... Although here, it's more literal than it is elsewhere.
[He pauses, and then the faintest of frowns touches upon his lips.] How are your injuries? Have they healed up yet?
( wow, rude? don't ignore her questioning. she's detectiving here.
... it's always strange when people show concern for her. and yet, it's not unwelcome. but she wants answers more now. is he truly someone she would accept concern from? ...
glancing away, she nods. she's not... perfect yet, but within two more weeks, so long as she's careful, her throat will be fully healed. until then, her voice remains soft and almost a whisper. )
Mostly. It'll be fine. ... Is something going on, though?
[It's said with a returning grin, just toothy enough for sharpened canines to peek out past his lips.] You've been here long enough to know that much, considering the state of things. The park is caught within a rather delicate battle for syzygy at all times, and if the balance leans too far one way...
[He puts his hands on her waist to lift her up into the air with a flourish, shrugging in a noncommittal manner once he sets her back on solid ground.]
Well. You and I are both rather well acquainted with dancing on strings.
( unfortunately, she can't just google that right now. or at all. i can, but i can't just impart knowledge upon her. a balance... and it has control of the park? she's not sure she gets it, but she's at least willing to listen.
even if that last comment makes her pale, jaw setting with a quiet force. )
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amuze2022-10-18 11:19 am
no subject
★ Synastry ★
★ Perilune ★
★ Asterizein ★
If you're wondering, "Hey, Mizuki, that looks really hard to see out of," then you're right! He's struggling. He can't imagine how actual jellyfish survive without eyes. If you're also wondering, "Hey, Mizuki, why are you soaked???" then don't worry about this. He may or may not have immediately went over to the food table and found some water to dunk on himself and his nice new suit. He's fine, and everything is okay. He'll just wallflower here until he figures out what's happening— ]
Oh! [ Just kidding. Social interactions are happening. Is he being spoken to? He hopes so. He's making it happen even if it's not. ] It's certainly, um… fancy! Very fancy. Makes me think of those sort of high society parties where they just drink and talk about politics and stuff. Is that what they're talking about?? Is there ghost-y adjacent politics???
[ He has many questions. ]
no subject
The conversation topics here tonight are nothing as dull as politics, fortunately. [There’s the smallest tilt of his head as he turns just slightly to focus on a pair of Masks nearby. He’s quiet for a moment as he merely… Listens, seemingly taking in the conversation before he’s leaning in closer to Mizuki. Conspiratorial whispers are only fun if no one overhears, after all.]
The one on the left is confiding in the other about a loss of some kind… A brother, or a father perhaps? I didn’t quite catch the relation, but apparently the body was found in the arcade, completely drained of blood.
no subject
But he gives a tiny gasp with stars practically in his eyes afterwards. Not that death is something to be excited about or anything, but… ]
How mysterious! [ Can the Masks hear them? He hopes he is talking quietly enough, himself… ] Like a murder mystery?? That could be fun…!
no subject
The other one… He says he saw it happen, but didn’t know who to go to. Sounds like… A crime of passion? A scorned lover…
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Oh, even better. I mean, terrible for them, but so exciting~. I’ve never gotten to psychoanalyze anyone who’s killed for love before…
[ And probably never will, but it’s fun to think about this stuff! ]
… It’s cool that you can understand them, though. Did it take you long to learn the language??
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Truthfully? I actually don’t know a word of what they’re saying. I made it up.
[He rolls his shoulders in a casual half shrug, idly spinning the glass about with his fingers.]
That’s part of the fun of the game though, I think. You’re only limited by your own imagination.
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Also… what do you mean by "game"? [ He likes games!! He's real good at them, too. Maybe he should ask this person if they like Pac-Man— ]
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Nonsense, Mizuki. There’s nothing to be jealous of, you have many qualities I also find equally admirable. Even so, thank you for the compliment.
[He gives a sort of grand, sweeping gesture towards the rest of the ballroom as a partial answer.] This game. “Court Intrigue,” as they say. For a single night, you can strip yourself of your faults and pretend to be whoever you wish to. Anyone can be anyone under these masks.
no subject
I see! So… a little bit like an RPG? In that case… who are you playing tonight?
no subject
It’s exactly like that, yes. A limited run of an RPG where you choose your own paths and stories. [But that is an excellent question there, isn’t it? Mizuki earns a thoughtful pause as he turns to watch the dance floor again. The Masks are still spinning together, spiraling in endless steps, round and round…]
Mm, you can call me Helix. As for my role… That remains to be seen.
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1/2
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SYNastry... h e h
He's chilling and watching the event, though the organ is going pretty hard right now, maybe he just might--
Oh! He blinks as he's swept up into the arms of this mystery dude. He doesn't question it much though, after all it's a party! He lets out a loud laugh underneath his mask. ]
Aha~ I sure don't know this dance, but that's not gonna stop me. I think you'll find you gotta keep up with me instead!
god that wasn’t even intended akjddj
Oh? If you have a different technique in mind, then by all means. [The grip shifts here, changing from the driver’s position to allow Floyd to have the honor instead.] Lead on. I’ll follow.
my pun-o-meter is in top form today
Floyd grins, sharp, pearly whites on display as he leads them both into a dance that doesn't follow the same steps and flourishes as those around them. You could say he's fighting the current with the way he leads them in the opposite direction without hitting anyone in this dance. He's pretty good! ]
Keepin' up? Or should I slow down for ya? [ He snickers. ]
isn't it always
This humble fox is enjoying the improvisation, don't you worry. How about you, Floyd Leech? Are you enjoying the festivities tonight? Evenings are such a rare commodity these days.
u right
It's a nice change of pace, that's for sure~. Makes things more fun!
[ Well, as fun as being kidnapped into a haunted amusement park can be, that is. ]
So, you know me. Who are you?
★ Synastry ★
... I can figure it out, don't worry.
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Apologies, I didn't mean to imply a lack of skill. Are you enjoying yourself at the masquerade, Mafuyu Asahina?
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the tempo, she can at least keep up with. but everything else? call her paranoid, but after the month she's had, she thinks it's warranted. )
I don't remember introducing myself. ... Or saying anything about offense, for that matter.
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Mm, this must be the one where we haven't met, then. [It's almost muttered under his breath in a thoughtful manner, though his tone picks back up again almost instantly afterward.] Regardless, I'm pleased to see you here. It's not safe out there.
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( he does this and she follows through spectacularly as she listens. ...somehow, that doesn't sound unreasonable. even without the confirmation of magic, both home and here, the multiverse theory has always made sense to her. it's just that... well.
who the fuck, honestly.
... wait, hold on. )
What do you mean?
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[He pauses, and then the faintest of frowns touches upon his lips.] How are your injuries? Have they healed up yet?
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... it's always strange when people show concern for her. and yet, it's not unwelcome. but she wants answers more now. is he truly someone she would accept concern from? ...
glancing away, she nods. she's not... perfect yet, but within two more weeks, so long as she's careful, her throat will be fully healed. until then, her voice remains soft and almost a whisper. )
Mostly. It'll be fine. ... Is something going on, though?
no subject
[It's said with a returning grin, just toothy enough for sharpened canines to peek out past his lips.] You've been here long enough to know that much, considering the state of things. The park is caught within a rather delicate battle for syzygy at all times, and if the balance leans too far one way...
[He puts his hands on her waist to lift her up into the air with a flourish, shrugging in a noncommittal manner once he sets her back on solid ground.]
Well. You and I are both rather well acquainted with dancing on strings.
no subject
( unfortunately, she can't just google that right now. or at all. i can, but i can't just impart knowledge upon her. a balance... and it has control of the park? she's not sure she gets it, but she's at least willing to listen.
even if that last comment makes her pale, jaw setting with a quiet force. )
I...