Console, Video Announcement

[redlightgreenlight]

[When the video feed begins, there are not one but two figures visible. Valdis should be familiar to almost everyone. The other is probably only familiar to those Foreigners who frequent the Midnight Hotel: ostensibly male, he's wearing a bright blue frock coat and a wide-brimmed, feathered hat that covers most of his face, except for rouged lips. They're seated close together in what looks to be one of the tea houses in Keeliai, with patrons and servers wandering in and out of view behind them.

When Rue speaks it's with a very poncy, nasal English accent.]

Now then, darlings, my dearest new friend Valdis and I have a bit of an announcement to share with you all. [The hat turns slightly, to indicate that he's looking over at her.] Would you care to do the honors, love?

[A brilliant smile lights up Valdis’ face.]

Of course, after all, it was my idea . [She laughs] My dear Rue and I have decided that we need to have a bit of fun. We are going to put on a Masquerade Ball and everyone is invited. [She glances at Rue, then back to the screen.] It will take place at the Courtyard of Public Opinion on the evening of the 30th. As it is a ball, formal wear is a must, and of course, being a masquerade, masks as well.

This is a chance for all of us to come together, Kedan and Foreigners, to celebrate our individualities as well as our similarities. After all, who doesn’t love a good party?

[Rue, meanwhile, has become visibly distracted by one of the men wandering off to the side in the tea house, just barely visible on the screen. There’s a very definite smirk on those rouged lips now.]

I know I do.

Comments

[irishthor]

A masquerade? Finally, something I have some knowledge of.

[redlightgreenlight]

So you will be there then?

[irishthor]

Telling would defeat the purpose of a Masquerade, surely?

[His tone is light; He wouldn't miss this for the world.]

[redlightgreenlight]

True. [She has a teasing glint in her eyes] How shall I find you for a dance then?

[edgeoftheknife]

Oh? Have you been to many? Do tell~

[irishthor]

Not many, but I know the etiquette.

[Barely. There were times with the Assassins where he had to blend into high society, after all.]

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[oceantier]

[It's probably a testament to Lapis' growing comfort levels that she answers at all -- even if it is through audio only.]

What . . . is this?

[Someone's never been to a ball or a masque. The word "party" helps a little bit, but from everything else, it sounds like there's more to this.]

[redlightgreenlight]

[Valdis smiles]

It's essentially a costume party where people come together. There will be dancing, drinking and general merriment.

[oceantier]

A . . . costume party. For dancing?

[There is some kind of bewildered horror in the words.]

Everyone . . . together?

[The last word comes out hushed, like a whisper:]

Why?

[redlightgreenlight]

[Valdis' brow rises in dark amusement]

For fun.

video

[backwordscompatible]

[After everything, Zatanna's eyes flooded with boy eager anticipation and more than a hint of nostalgia.]

A Halloween Masquerade. How perfect.

It's been years since the last one. Those were some good times....

[redlightgreenlight]

[Her empathy might not work over the network, but it's evident that this idea is making people happy.]

I'm glad you think so, I felt it was past time that we do something fun.

[backwordscompatible]

[It's a party. Who doesn't love a good party?]

I like the way you think.

Do you need help setting anything up? I've been told I have a magic touch when it comes to decorating. [Get it?]

[redlightgreenlight]

[She gets it and laughs lightly]

Of course! Rue and I would love to have your help.

[deadclumsy]

[She doesn't often use the network here, but she just can't help herself when she hears this open invitation.]

Brilliant. That seems like just the sort of thing we need around here.

[redlightgreenlight]

I thought so, I'm glad you agree.

[deadclumsy]

I don't think we've met yet, us.

Or maybe we did, but I've met loads of people since landing here. Call me Tonks if you don't already.

[purered]

Ah, this brings back memories! I haven't been to a masquerade since I was a much younger man.

[redlightgreenlight]

Oh? Good memories, I hope.

[purered]

More than a few, quite honestly. Beautiful music, lovely food... it was quite an experience.

[edgeoftheknife]

Does that mean you'll be attending~?

[purered]

[Klaus gives a small, sheepish nod.]

I see no reason not to. It will be a pleasant break, all things considered.

[phoenixstrut]

[Que one very, very excited glowing angel face. She's not even sure how to respond yet.]

[redlightgreenlight]

[Valdis laughs]

You look happy.

[phoenixstrut]

Are you kidding? [she laughs, near giddy.] I love formal events!

[Pause.]

Do you have a dress yet?

[Because obviously she's going to need one.]