video;

[cowled]

Well, this is... embarrassing, if I do say so myself.

[He laughs a little, just to prove how completely embarrassed he is. Look. Do you see his embarrassment? Because it's totally there.]

Here it is, almost literally the eve of this masquerade and I find myself without a date. I hope none of you gentlemen mind me cutting in on you when the time comes.

[His tone is a little at odds with his expression, which is patently apologetic. His voice, however, is steeped in savoir-faire. Because what playboy wouldn't be happy to go stag amidst a party of beautiful women, I mean really.]

And on that note, I would officially like to extend my gratitude to Favrielle nó Eglantine for making this event a possibility in the first place, and for sharing this aspect of her culture with us. She's been a rock of our community for some months now, and she deserves every ounce of recognition her genius affords her.



[encrypted; AGENT CAROLINA | hackable]

Carolina, would you be interested in coming with? As a bodyguard of sorts, a strictly professional basis.



[encrypted; OLIVIA DUNHAM | hackable]

I don't suppose you're feeling up to a dance or two? I cut a mean tango.



[encrypted; BAT!DICK | unhackable]

Keep an eye on the newcomers.

[It goes without saying that Bruce is suspicious of both Tim and Jason, oops.]



[encrypted; ROBIN!DICK | unhackable]

I need to speak with you.

Comments

Video

[the_other_eight]

[Pepper is sitting with her face in her hand and smirking. a pretend bashful playboy? She hasn't seen that in months. A soft smile is on her lips and one brow is lifted.]

You sound very broken up about it.

video;

[cowled]

[Hello, lady of Tony Stark's acquaintance. You bet he was stalking that intro post, Pepper.]

I may never recover, if I'm to be perfectly honest, Ms...?

Re: video;

[the_other_eight]

[She wouldn't expect anything less of a playboy who doesn't know her very well.]

I'm sure you'll find a way. And it's Miss Potts.

video;

[cowled]

Miss Potts.

[... there's a slight pause, made just the barest amounts awkward by the length and the look on Bruce's face, and then he laughs.]

Forgive me, I'm accustomed to more... personal interactions. This would generally be the part where I shake your hand.

Re: video;

[the_other_eight]

Agreed.

[She brushes some hair from her face.]

You could start by telling me your name.

video;

[cowled]

Wayne. Bruce Wayne. It's lovely to meet you.

Re: video;

[the_other_eight]

The feeling is mutual. As for your dilemma, I'm sure that you'll find a solution.

video;

[cowled]

I'm certain it could be remedied if you'd be so kind as to grace me with a dance, Miss Potts.

Re: video;

[the_other_eight]

I don't see that as a problem, Mister Wayne.

[cowled]

You are all together too kind. But please, call me Bruce.

[the_other_eight]

Then please, call me Pepper.

[cowled]

Pepper. Am I incorrect in assuming you've some association with a Mr. Tony Stark?

[the_other_eight]

You could assume that.

[There's a quiet pause as Pepper decides exactly what to reveal to Bruce. It isn't as if she's known him very long, or at all really. They've only just exchanged pleasantries.]

Mister Stark is my employer.

[Among other things, but if Bruce suspects that then he can ask. Or better yet, he can ask Tony. Pepper would really like to be there to see that happen.]

[cowled]

[A smile.]

I'm glad he has you, then. Everyone could use a friendly face from home.

[Stark has several, but 'Bruce Wayne' hardly pays that much attention.]

[the_other_eight]

Mister Stark is fortunate have the ability to make friends easily.

[cowled]

Is that what you're calling it?

[He might be teasing a little. Because 'making friends' isn't even remotely synonymous with Tony Stark, from what he's seen.]

[the_other_eight]

He;s a very dynamic and charismatic individual. That can go a long way in making friends.

[See how she's PRing you Bruce? Nothing personal.]

[cowled]

I suppose I'll simply have to bow to your superior expertise, Ms. Potts.

[Such a languid smile.]

[the_other_eight]

Should I assume that you and Mister Stark are acquaintances?

[cowled]

We've met. He was kind enough to install a skylight in my suite.

[The slightly ironic cant to his lips suggests that this was not an intentional skylight. Of course, he'd never be so crass as to call Tony out on it publicly.]

[the_other_eight]

Do I need to phone for repairs?

[She knows enough about Tony to realize it wasn't a friendly gesture.]

[cowled]

[he laughs.]

Heavens no. It was months ago.

[... and it was actually their First Ever Meeting, no prior animosity required!]

[the_other_eight]

Do you require reparations of any sort?

[cowled]

[A bit of a wink.]

I think it's a statistical likelihood that my pocketbook will endure, Ms. Potts.

[the_other_eight]

[She offers a soft smile.]

It's only appropriate to offer. I am sorry Mister Stark caused you trouble.