when the moon hits your eye... [Valentine's Day Date Night]

[ayes]

Who: You Watanabe (ayes) & lots of folks!
What: Valentine's Day Matchmaking: DATE NIGHT
When: The evening of February 14!
Where: Olympia
Warning(s): Some mild druglike effects, and probably some NSFW stuff in threads?

Earlier in the week-- about the night of February 12 or so-- you received a letter in the mail. Upon opening it, you found an invitation, hand-written in a sort of looping script.

Hello [YOUR NAME HERE]!
You're invited to a really great night!
On the evening of February 14, please come join us in Olympia for a special surprise!

Your friend,
You

P.S. "You" is my name. I'm not saying it's from you!

She's drawn a little smiley face on the invitation, and you may remember her from her earlier post to the network. For some of you, this invitation isn't surprising. You signed up for her party, after all. For others, though, this may come as a surprise.

[I: The Message & The Arrival]

Nevertheless, you decide to go anyway. She's listed an address in Olympia, and the night of the event, when you show up, it's a decent-sized dining hall. There are pink and red ribbons and balloons and lacy heart shapes everywhere.

You may catch sight of the young woman scurrying around, looking a little harried. Or you may just find other people who seem confused to be here. Did your name wind up in the drawing list? Did theirs? What's going on?

[II: Dinner...]

Be it as it may, you go inside. Inside, you can find more of those ribbons, and balloons, and hearts, as well as dozens of small, round tables for two, each covered in a white tablecloth and with a pair of candlesticks. Approaching the tables, you find that each seat has a small nametag, written in that same looping handwriting. They're names you may recognize: Reinhardt Wilhelm, Isabela, Mikazuki Augus, and more.

One of these names is yours. And across from you is another name. Maybe you recognize them, maybe you don't.

Either way, it's not long before someone comes by to light the candles and take your food order. You've got a date.

[III: ...and a show!]

Maybe half an hour after your meal order is taken and has been served (it's delicious, by the way) a spotlight cuts through the dim light, illuminating a small raised stage off on the side of the room. The young woman, You, is standing there, wearing a short dress that almost looks like that of a ballet dancer, her hair pinned up. She has to reach up to bring the microphone down. She's not very tall.

"Ah... um, hello? Is it on? Hi!" she says, her voice fast and a little nervous. "I'm You Watanabe, and... happy Valentine's Day! I hope you're all having a wonderful time, and maybe the person you're meeting tonight, um, I don't know, something could come out of it, I hope!"

She pauses, like she's not sure what to say. "Anyway, uh, I thought I'd perform some songs while you're eating, so listen if you want!"

You takes a breath and then steps back before gesturing to someone in the darkness, presumably who then starts a music track. She begins to sing and dance, performing a number of different songs. Some of them are sweet and slow, others a little more upbeat, and there's even one that's kind of... sensual in a rockin' way? Still, while her dance moves are well practiced and her voice pretty and clear, you get the sense that these song and dance routines were meant to be performed with way more than just one person. There should be harmonies or other parts there that are missing.

Still, there's an empty dance floor in front of the stage, and there's something catchy and almost strangely inspiring about the girl's singing-- even if this genre of music isn't your particular favorite, it's somehow encouraging. Why not ask your partner to dance?

[IV: Sin and Sweetness]

Eventually, You leaves the stage, thanking everyone, and the night continues uneventfully. As your dinner wears down, you may be drawn to a cart off to the side, piled high with desserts, pastries of all types and color. Eventually, a pair of waiters begins pushing it around from table to table. Do you want some dessert, they ask.

These pastries have been baked by your hostess, You herself, based off a book of recipes she'd found in some of the... seedier parts of the Entertainment District. There's another one of those handwritten notes in that looping script, written on thick card stock folded in two to make a simple sign:

Tonight's a night of excitement!
If you want a little help feeling romantic, try the pastries!
They'll definitely spice things up! (๑˃ᴗ˂)ﻭ

The various pastries themselves have similarly handwritten signs on them, notifying you (if a little obliquely) of some potentially interesting effects...

• Strudel: "Find beauty in the world!" (For whatever reason, other people look a little more attractive.)
• Baklava: "To tell them how you really feel!" (You'll feel more likely to be honest, if not overshare.)
• Cannoli: "Because love needs laughter!" (Everything other people say is somehow funnier than usual.)
• Cinnamon Roll: "The nose knows!" (The first person you look at smells oddly like your favorite smell.)
• Blueberry Scone: "For a bit of courage!" (This will make you feel bolder, intensifying emotions you already feel.)
• Mooncake: "To feel like falling in love!" (Every time you look at the first person you see, your heart beats a little faster.)
• Taiyaki: "Try to see someone else differently!" (Every time you look at the first person you see, there are little sparkles around them.)

The effects themselves aren't designed to be overwhelming or all that powerful, and can be resisted with just a little effort. However, You's recipe only dealt with one effect at a time. Mixing and matching multiple pastries? Who knows what might happen...?

There are also plenty of non-magical desserts, for anyone looking to sate their sweet tooth without chancing an odd experience.

[V: Singles Mingle]

You's spent most of her time arranging the couples event, of course, but if you didn't sign up, there's still a place for you! (Or maybe your date went terribly and you're here early.) There's a bar off to the side where people are welcome to sit and drink and meet other folks.

That said, they're bringing the pastries around here, too...

[VI: Wildcard]

Didn't see a prompt here for you? Write your own! The night has plenty of dancing, food, romantic moonlight, and plenty of places you can sneak off to be alone.

((OOC: As always, please label your threads if they turn NSFW, and make sure your thread partner(s) are okay with whichever pastry effect you're getting!))

Comments

You Watanabe | OTA

[ayes]

[Feel free to interact with her during any of the above prompts! You can catch her running around before dinner, or grab her as she's coming off stage.] [VI] [The night is over. Everyone is clearing out. Maybe you're going home with your new date, or maybe you just stuck around for some more drinks. Either way, as people clean off the tables and take uneaten food and magic pastries away, you can find a thoroughly exhausted-looking You, still dressed in her performance outfit, slumped over a table in one of the corner booths, resting her head on folded arms. As with the beach party, it seems that the girl's been working herself to the bone. She's practically passed out. Maybe you should let her rest... or say hi?]

[panzersoldat]

[ Reinhardt had had a very fun night. His date likely doesn't mind that he drifts over to their host. She is really a very sweet little girl. First the beach party and then the clothing he's wearing right now. Now this. She does far too much for so many without any sort of reward.

He goes over and takes off his jacket to rest it over those small shoulders like an absolutely massive blanket. ]

You, you were amazing tonight. I've not heard such great music in such a long time. And such dancing. You must have been a rock star where you came from. [ He barely manages not to compare it to Hasselhoff. ] But you can't sleep here. You'll get sick.

Reinhardt Wilhelm | OTA

[panzersoldat]

[ooc: All prompts but the dinner prompt are open for anyone who wants to interact with him]

1 - Arrival - Sharp Dressed Man

Reinhardt had indeed gotten the letter. He had signed himself up for it. While he has someone, he does feel that everyone needs to have at least one day where they can enjoy a little fun and romance. So him being him, he's not going to half ass this. Whoever gets set up with him is going to get the older gentleman dressed to the nines in an outfit that You herself had sewn for him.

He's got a dozen long stemmed roses and a small trinket. A sweet little wooden hand-carved brooch to give to his date.

He shifts from foot to foot. "Is anyone else nervous. I've never been good at this sort of thing." He really hopes he's not a disappointment for whoever gets him.

II - Closed to Major General Armstrong
[ Well, that's his name on the table. And he sort of can't help but peek at the name on the other side. He feels a little relieved. He's glad it's her. They at least know each other and he does like her. She's a good woman.

Of course, the second she arrives, he'll stand from his chair and walk over to pull her chair for her. He's going to do things right by her. But first...the roses. He hasn't forgotten. ] Ma'am. I'm glad it's you that joined me here.

III - Dance dance
There's nothing that Reinhardt likes more than a good dance. He's happy to dance with anyone. His date, of course, is his priority. But anyone that looks lonely, looks like they need a partner, he's more than happy to stroll right on up to them. Man or woman, it doesn't matter. He'll still give them a sweeping bow. "Would you do me the honor of this next dance?"

IV - If you give a German some Strudel
Strange treats? Weird effects? This means nothing to Reinhardt in the face of one of his childhood favorites. So there's simply no way he's going to be able to pass it up. He's just going to take a plate and plop down to eat the heck out of some strudel.

Is he crying? Likely, because goddamn, that's some good strudel!!

[wallofbriggs]

[Olivier didn't remember signing up for any of this, but she wasn't about to turn down a free meal, even if it meant she had to deal with some poor idiot. She even put in the effort of wearing the only piece of jewelry she owns, found one morning by her bedside. The watch didn't really work but it made a nice locket.]

The outlook on this evening has picked up considerably.

[Of course, she has no idea what to do with the flowers beyond not looking like they're about to poison her.]

Thank you.

Diana Cavendish

[fiendennor]

[She doesn't want to go. But she feels obligated to, honestly. And if she's going to go, why not... at least make an effort?

Which is why Diana is wearing a nice blue dress of shimmering material, loose straps holding it up on her upper arms, a stole of some kind over her shoulders to help with the weather. Still, she seems like she should be colder than she apparently is.]

II: Closed to Sansa Stark

[Okay. Maybe this won't be so bad after all.

Diana can't help but smile.] I can't help but feel that the point of a blind date is somewhat lessened if you've met the other person before.

crawls to this... finally!!

[unprays]

[ the invitation had been met with surprise, on her part: but it had come from You, so she thought it would have been impolite to not show up. she's dressed in one of the dresses she had been making for Margaery, but her friend had fallen asleep before she was able to complete it. she feels strange, now, to be wearing a rose instead of a wolf, but Lady follows by her side, even now.

when it dawns on her, the kind of event she's been invited to, she tries to protest to everyone who is within hearing distance that this wasn't her idea, that she doesn't really want to meet anyone... but when she realizes who she has been matched with, her confused anxiety breaks away and into a smile. ]

Lady Diana! [ she can't help it, reaching her hand over the table to grasp Diana's hand. ] Oh, I'm so glad it is you and not some stranger!

"Johann Faust" | OTA

[meinwaifu]

[Mephisto (aka Johann Faust) sure likes Valentine's Day for a demon who doesn't believe in love... but really, nothing could possibly bring him more joy than watching the awkward and intimate exchanges between humans on their first dates! Which was his true motivation for coming here, obviously. Not that he isn't prepared for his own date, having taken the opportunity to... d-dress up. If he's not the tackiest person here, he'll probably be a little disappointed.]

[In any case, he can be found throughout the evening--]

a. Actual Weeaboo
[--thoroughly enjoying the song and dance going on up stage, proooobably looking disturbingly like a fanboy with the way he's practically sparkling (or literally, if you ate some of the taiyaki) as he watches You dance. At a glance, it'd be easy to write this off as some gross old man drooling over a pretty young woman, but if anyone actually dares to get closer to him, they'll be able to hear him softly humming along... to lines and harmonies of the song that clearly should be there, but aren't! Has he heard these songs before...? Maybe you should take one for the team and ask him to dance before he starts weirding poor You out.]


b. Cake Fiend
[It's a good thing there are so many desserts here, because for a guy who's basically a stick, Mephisto sure enjoys his sweets. He can easily be found munching on basically any of the various pastries around, though he at least has the sense not to pile a single plate full of them and just takes multiple trips back to the dessert cart... seriously, where is it all going??]

[(If you have a preference for what sweet he'll be eating when your character approaches him, let me know, or I'll rng! I'm cool with any effects on your character's side!)]


c. Shenanigans
[Whether his date goes poorly or not (and lbr it's Mephisto, it'll probably go poorly at some point), he still manages to find his way to the bar at some point... probably still finding room for more sweets, seriously, someone stop him. But for anyone looking for drunk shenanigans with a drunk "wizard", look no further! ...hopefully no one has to carry him hime by the end of the night, he's so tall, it'll look ridiculous.]


d. Moonlit Night
[Or maybe if you're looking for a quiet moment, why not step outside? Mephisto has found a spot against a small railing, head tilted up towards the sky, seemingly lost in thought. It's rather chilly outside, but he doesn't seem too bothered by it, his outer jacket pulled off and folded over his arm. At least in this lighting, he looks somewhat less tacky??]

Closed to Yoruichi

[meinwaifu]

[The name on the card seated across from her said "Johann Faust" -- but the man who takes a seat won't exactly match with the name she'd be familiar with.]

Well, well! If it isn't Miss Yoruichi! It seems fate has opted to bring us together again!

[Probably too late to switch the name cards around, huh...]

anders

[judicia]

( Anders hadn't signed himself up for this, but that doesn't mean he doesn't put at least a little bit of thought into his appropriately colored outfit. His golden hair is tied up as it usually is, though this time it is with a matching red string. )

sin and sweetness

( He's not adventurous enough to try all of the desserts that were offered, but he does give a few of them a taste. The strudel, in particular, seems to be a favorite of his. He's already eaten a couple of them by the time dinner concludes.

So if he ends up staring at someone for an unusually long time, it isn't going to be entirely his fault. He does look plenty embarrassed about it when he gets caught, though, as his hand reaches up to scratch the back of his neck. )

Hi. ( He says, still looking a bit bashful. )

x'rhun

[judicia]

( Anders, admittedly, hasn't ever been on a proper date like this before. Sure, there was that time with Rhys, when Anders asked him out as a joke and they spent the rest of the night in some seedy bar, but this is different. This place has candlelight, music, everything that Anders has ever read about in those trashy romance novels.

He's not nervous, per se, but he is extremely curious to find out who this X'rhun Tia is. Fortunately, he doesn't have to wait long. Anders looks over as his date approaches the table, his mouth curling into a friendly smile. )

Are you... ( He makes a little gesture toward the nametag, not wanting to butcher the poor guy's name. )

Miles Edgeworth | Ace Attorney

[milesedgelord]

I: OTA
[It was a surprise to say the least when the letter appeared in the mail. The invitation was sent by the young lady who had hosted the beach party, Miles had met at the Gala and it would have been rude for him to not show up. There was no dress code listed either for the event. He opted for a slightly more fitted look than usual.

Social events, in general, made him rather anxious. So when he arrived he hovered about the edges of the event hall. This was ridiculous. He didn't really need to have any more romantic complications piled on top of his already complicated love life.

He spoke to the person next to him.]

I'm afraid there has been some sort of error. I was under the impression that this was something that you had signed up for?

II: Closed to Byerly

[It hadn't taken him long to find his name tag attached to a table placing. He did not recognize the name in front of him at all. Maybe all of this had been a fluke, still, it would be rude to stand up the person he was set up with. He sat down and ordered a glass of champagne, and took a breath.

Whoever it was that he was paired off with, he was certain to tell them that there will be no further romantic expectations from him asides from this evening. He was here on an error and had no interest in partaking in such things.

He stands up from his seat when his companion does arrive and graces him with a deep bow.]

I am afraid I hadn't made your acquaintance as of yet, Mr. Vorrutyer. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Miles Edgeworth and it is a pleasure to dine with you this evening.

[He didn't ask to be on this blind date but there was no need to be rude.]

III: Wildcard
(If there is any prompt you want to do in particular please feel free to hit me up at peacockdance )

[vorrutyer]

Vorrutyer. Not Mister Vorrutyer. I'm Vor, not prole.

[ Byerly's correction drips with elitism, yeah, but it's delivered amiably enough; By isn't trying to be exceedingly obnoxious. At least not until he's gotten his free dinner and a few drinks. He bows back, just as deeply, though there's a certain irony in his grace before he sits down, stretching his long legs before him.

He's dressed fetchingly enough, at least - a dark gray suit with a blue trim that sets off his smoldering brown eyes quite nicely. Those eyes flit up and down Edgeworth's form, examining him before he comments - ]

It's nice to be paired with a fellow who at least knows how to dress himself.

Axel | Kingdom Hearts | OTA

[icingonthecake]

[[I'm frequently on mobile, so I default to prose, but if you prefer brackets you can respond however you like, we don't have to match!]]

I
Axel's really not sure what he thinks about all this, but here he stands, with the invitation in one hand and the other in his pocket. He hasn't really had a chance to go shopping since he got here, so he's wearing his usual long black coat, but he's at least made the effort to tame his wild spiky mass of hair into a low ponytail. He certainly didn't sign up for this, but he guesses he can't really be upset about it (even if he was capable of being upset); he's never really been one to turn down the opportunity to meet new people, and while a date really isn't his preferred method, he supposes there are far worse methods.

Standing near the doorway, a little disoriented, Axel watches as a handful of others mill about the area, punctuated by a young woman with silvery hair who seems to be trying to be in far too many places at once. He can see that there are namecards on most of the tables, but for now he'll just wait here; no sense getting in anyone's way. For the moment, he'll busy himself fussing with one of the bunches of balloons by the door, trying to make all of the ribbons holding them together the same length.


II (for Chibi specifically, but if someone wants to bother him at the table beforehand that's fine)
After things have settled a bit, Axel makes his way around to the tables, looking for the one with his name on it. He finds it after a few minutes of searching, kind of off to the left side of the stage area, and glances over his shoulder before taking a seat. This whole thing feels a bit like maybe he's on one of those reality TV shows he's seen are popular on some worlds. He isn't really sure what all this 'Valentine' stuff is, but the whole hearts theme is making him a little uncomfortable. Well, he knows it's not meant to be personally directed at him and his lack of heart, at least; the whole setup seems to have been done with good intentions. It's still a bit awkward.

He picks up the namecard of his apparent date for the evening, quirking an eyebrow. 'Chibi' is an unusual name, he thinks; at least it's one he hasn't ever heard before. He glances up when a waiter stops by the table and wordlessly fills the water glasses, and he gives an appreciative nod. You may find him attempting to fold the napkin into a bird if you happen by the table.


IV
At some point during the evening, Axel noticed the dessert table, and to be honest he's been thinking about it ever since. After dinner has concluded, he'll make his way toward the pastries to investigate, curiously peering at the messages that go with each one. Interesting... he wonders if these little notes are cultural, or if they're just this You girl's attempt at witty humor. He hasn't tried most of these, and the little fish-shaped concoctions catch his interest. Taiyaki? He picks one up, hoping they don't actually taste like fish, and then quirks his mouth before picking up the flaky confectionery apparently called baklava. Well, it's been a night of trying new things already, so here goes nothing.


[For Riku]
Though the waiters have been pouring wine at the tables, Axel finds himself going back to the punch bowl at the dessert table. Hey, the man likes fruit punch, okay? Ladling some of the sparkling pink liquid into a plastic cup, he glances up at the stage to watch You's continued performance, smiling faintly. The whole evening has been kind of silly, and definitely outside his wheelhouse, but he can't say he hasn't enjoyed himself so far.

Turning to head back toward the table, he stops short and stiffens a bit when another figure appears in his path. Oh.

"Ah... hey, Riku," he says awkwardly. The entire situation feels a bit different, now that Sora's explained more about what apparently lies in their future. He can't say he ever hated Riku or anything, but now he feels kind of obligated to try and get along with him, and it's... weird. He clears his throat awkwardly and takes a sip of punch. "Um. Fancy meeting you here."

Great. Smoothest comment of the evening, folks.


VI: WILDCARD
[[I am up for anything, come at me my dudes.]]

runs in 50 years late... a thread in which baklava will happen

[manolia]

Well, this is a tad awkward.

At first, Chibi had thought he was being courted from afar - a bit jarring, when he's only been here a few weeks. It's comforting to learn someone just shoved his name in a bowl and yanked it out again. He had turned the invitation over in his hand, then over again, then...

Then he had just gotten dressed and went. It's a bit fancy and stuffy for him in this hall, but he could get used to it if he really tried, he thinks. Who has he gotten paired up for this? Hopefully not someone too young - a man or woman? Who knows?

Ah, probably that gentleman sitting at the table with the hell of a lot of hair. Not too bad a pull for company for the night, he thinks. For Chibi's part, he's assured and easy in his posture, clearly not taking it too seriously.

"Now, do not let him fly away," he quips, looking down at the little napkin-bird. "You are, ah--" a beat to actually look at the card on the table, then speaks with a bit of a stilted accent-- "Axel?"

closed - bigby wolf

[exaomori]

[Fine, she'd sign up for the cheesy blind date. The Storm may have happened, but she still had her life to live, and finding a ~life partner~ was still on the table. Who knew, maybe this would end up going somewhere? So she'll dress up nice and cute in a little dress and some strappy sandals. She'll also be a little late to the whole shindig. Because reasons. It has nothing to do with falling asleep in the middle of the afternoon or anything.

But hey, what was ten minutes or so? At least she thinks her assigned date is already there, which saves her the awkward part of waiting for him to show up. Casual is the name of the game as she approaches him and the table, jacket slung over her shoulder.]

Sorry~ I hope ya weren't too bored waitin' for me ♥

[so wait what was this guys name??]

I'M HERE

[puffing]

[ it's nothing short of a miracle that Bigby is complying to this impromptu blind date that some asshole's signed him up for. the natural skeptic in him can only imagine the number of ways something so normal and opposite of his lifestyle will be ruined before he so much as enjoys an actual dinner with someone. so why does he decide to actually dress up into something half decent and participate? who knows. maybe he just didn't want to leave the other sucker that may have been signed up unwillingly hanging.

or maybe he's just morbidly curious if the date picked for him is half decent. there's weirder things that have happened here since arriving.

he had also been running late, but by only five minutes as opposed to ten. it gives him enough time to think he's the one who has been stood up, looking for practically any excuse to leave before this thing begins. but then that would ignore the fact that he spent some time actually dressing up, buying a new outfit that involves a shirt that is wrinkle-free for a change.

Shura appears just in time, however, and what was Bigby just looking at the menu with furrowed brows is now him glancing up to seeing her for the first time. and... okay. he's still finding this to be a tough sell, but she has at least passed the "half decent" expectation. after remembering that standing is an important thing for these kinds of things, he slowly gets to his feet and offers a— wait, what does he do here. wave? smile? he settles with just shaking his head. ]

It's alright. Wasn't a long wait. Uh, nice to... meet you.

[ is it sad that he didn't even reach over to look at her namecard before. oops. ]

for mipha

[trample]

[ First impressions are a big deal. So when he sees the red and pink, the hearts, and the tables meant for pairs, he's immediately taken aback. This is, without a doubt, the farthest thing from him that there could ever be. He could not, in fact, remember a time he had ever even used the L word, or any of its variants. His life was a joyless one.

That being said, he had just one reason to stay - it was the terrible uncertainty that came with seeing everyone's names announced on their designated tables. Perhaps he, too, might have fallen victim to it as well. Though their letter named him as Kruger, there was no telling what was on his tag until he had seen it.

Making quite a fuss as he went about each table, rapidly making his way across the gaps between each one, he silently processed each name until he was certain he hadn't seen his, and eventually came upon one that could only be his. "Kruger." There it was. Now, he could rest easy.

He took the seat to get a breather - God, was he so out of shape? - and steepled his fingers together with his nametag between them, hiding any and all evidence of his identity. Just sitting down inconspicuously, there was quite a window of opportunity for anyone to come take a seat right next to him, particularly the one who he was supposedly meant to be with. ]

[fisherwife]

[It's cute, this whole set-up and idea. Mipha has no idea what this holiday celebration is supposed to really be about, bu she can guess from the decorations and the theme that it's something about love. And that's... sweet, honestly. What a nice holiday.

She moves around the tables, eyeing the names curiously to see who all might be coming, delighting at finding familiar names until she spies her own. And then the man sitting on the other side.

None of this seems to startle or bother her though, her smile warm and friendly as she takes her seat opposite him.] Hello, it seems we'll be paired together for the evening. If you don't mind, that is.

Yu Narukami | OTA

[izanyagi]

[I - THE ARRIVAL CLOSED TO CHERYL BLOSSOM]
[It was strange how much a fancy suit could change Yu Narukami from teenager with questionable fashion sense to someone you would want to take on a date. And so, knowing how much effort You had taken towards this, he had not only signed up, but made sure to arrive early so that he could great his date properly.

Was Yu looking for romance or just meeting someone new? Maybe yes, maybe no, maybe both...it was hard to tell. The biggest problem is he didn't know what this person looked like, so he had sat at his seat, only rising when he noticed someone moving closer. A simple, polite bow greeting typical of the world he had once lived in. He was rather tall, standing at around six feet, with grayish eyes that matched his hair. ]

Good evening, Cheryl-san. I'm Yu Narukami, it is nice to meet you.

[Don't worry, he'd drop the honorifics soon...but Yu was who he was - polite to a fault.]

[WILDCARD & SIN AND SWEETNESS]
[Did you run into Yu during that night? Maybe you walked upon him as he ate one of the sweets and passed a bit to you...maybe you caught him at the end of his date as he went outside for a breath of fresh air. I'm open to most scenarios so don't hesitate to start something sweet or silly!]

[sweetwater]

[ Cheryl also has no idea what to expect, which is why she's willing to pretend that she did not sign herself up, should the need arise. but in truth she's excited, and it's an excuse to dress up for the evening. she's petite by most people's standards, and Yu will find that he practically towers over her - she's perhaps 5'4'' if you count her heels.

she's not expecting the honorific, though it's flattering in it's own way. ]

It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Very smart suit choice. I approve.

Linneus | OTA

[inaurare]

A: Sweet Tooth
[i: Mooncake]
['Mooncake' is a whimsical name itself - and it's the name, not the listed 'effect', that compels Linneus to give it a try. Even if the pastry crust reminds him more of a pie than a cake. The interior... is not strictly cake-like, either. Picking up the little sign and turning to look for some advice--

Oh, the next person in line was rather closer than he had anticipated.

Oh, he can't pretend he doesn't know what that feeling is, and he can't help but hold the little marker to his chest]

Were, ah... were these mis-labelled?

[ii: Bite-Size]
[...it's entirely possible that he has come back for seconds, but Linneus has always enjoyed his cakes, and it certainly helps that these ones in such convenient little morsels.

He'd feel much guiltier if they were full slices of cake.

He edges along to allow a little more space to for the next person.]

Is there anything you would like? If you excuse my fingers I can...?

[get it for you? Or is it quite possible that he's suggesting feeding it to you?]

B: Mingle
[i: Hit the Floor]

[it doesn't normally fall to him to ask - if he goes to these events at all, he is usually accompanied by someone who expects to have all of his dances. And even at the Holiday Ball, he only danced with one or two people.

Some of this "pop" music is beyond him, but he does like to dance, even if he is a better follow than he is a lead. Cautious of butting into anyone's evening, he aims for people who are by themselves, who may want some company]

Will you dance?

[ii: More Cakes?]
[a shy laugh as they pastries are brought back around, a shake of his head]

Oh-- goodness, no, thank you. I'm not sure my heart could manage another of those moon-cakes - it seemed like to beat out of my chest last time!

for Waver

[inaurare]

[of course, Linneus knew who he was matched with - it was no big surprise to see the other name card on the table. Seeing his guest, he gives a slightly sheepish chuckle, drawing closer.]

I didn't expect that we would meet again at this sort of event. Have you been well, Waver?

Venom | Guilty Gear

[poolhall_killer]

I. Arrival

[When Venom first received the invitation, he thought the young lady he met at the gala was putting on a party for everyone. He had planned on wearing something more professional, but after some research (and endless shopping), he settled on something more relaxed. He straightens his gloves and adjusts the small choker around his neck, looking around the decorated halls.

He might look a bit lost, but he's not above approaching others for a friendly, if not a touch awkward, chat.]

Hello. It's rather... pink in here, isn't it?

II-III. Dinner and Dancing (Closed to Justice)

[It starts dawning on Venom as to what kind of get together this is. After all he's been through with Nick and Miles, he was planning to take time to himself and gather his thoughts. Apparently someone took initiative and wanted him to get back in the game quickly.

He's directed to his table, where his name and another's are displayed prominently on the the cloth. Curious, he picks up the other one.]

Justice...?

[The name strikes a bit of worry into his mind, as Justice in his world is a powerful entity responsible for the Crusades. But he's never seen her here, and why would someone try to hook him up with her? Hopefully it's someone with the same name. Hopefully...]

IV. Wildcard!

[I'm up for all sorts of fun shenanigans here, so drop me a line and let's plot!]

I. Hello awkward conversations.

[milesedgelord]

Unsurprising, considering it is Valentine's day. The colors of this rather commercialized holiday are usually red or pink. However, it looks like the young lady is enjoying herself.

[He had just arrived himself, dressed in a slim fitted red suit. His usual cravat was left at home for once, and he had opted for a simple tie, instead.]

Those colors suit you well.

Did you just get here?

Enjolras

[idealisme]

Dinner - closed to Grantaire
don't let the wine go to your brain

[The fact that's it's Valentines Day hasn't escaped him, but the card made no mention of it and so far he's held out hope that something productive might actually be happening. But... the decorations leave no question about the intent of this dinner, and for a moment he stops in the doorway, taking in the room and seriously considering leaving.

But there are likely to be many people here, he concedes. He's come to Olympia to see how people are feeling about the rising tension and king and empress. He could use this to his advantage.

He's looking for his name on the tables when he sees a familiar mop of dark curls.] You're here too, then?

V - Singles Mingle
who cares about your lonely soul

[He makes his way to the bar during the evening. It isn't a drink he's looking for, just someone else who seems like they might want a conversation. He's open to being approached by anyone willing to try their luck on a fierce-looking blond, or he'll try-] There have to be more important things for the refugees as a group to focus on than this, surely.

[Look, he's great at political rallies.]

wow i was not expecting this at all what a surprise

[winecasks]

[ Grantaire isn’t drunk, but he makes for an all too familiar sight with his glass of wine in hand. He had meant to find his name on the tables, but it had been impossible for him to resist the lure of the bottles lined up along the bar first. He had vaguely hoped that someone might have stopped him, but no one had. How pitiful that he hasn’t even begun to try and he’s already failed. ]

I’m here too. Where else?

[ He smiles, but it’s hard to ignore the feeling that Enjolras is disappointed, yet again, simply by the mere sight of him. Grantaire has never been able to reproduce whatever acceptance he managed to gain in the moment of their deaths. He wants to try, but his doubt is crippling, leaving him too earth-bound to make more than a feeble attempt. ]

But you come as a pleasant surprise, Enjolras. Have you come to rouse the masses with more talk of freedom and revolution and overthrowing the king and the empress?

[ It isn’t spoken with mockery, but instead with immense fondness. Grantaire may not comment on much in regards to Enjolras’ politics, but he enjoys listening. It reminds him of home. ]

I’m afraid they may not wish to listen. Not right now. Most seem rather preoccupied with one another at the moment.

for Sanzo

[gekkajuu]

[Atsushi had signed up mostly to support You's party planning. He hadn't even thought about the "dating" part too much, focused on helping her find a place to have the party, and most of all: helping her pay for it as much as he could. Maybe he didn't have the creativity and the social daring that she did, but he thought You's parties were something the refugee community truly needed, so he'd at least try to help out!

But now the day has come, he's nervous. Really, really nervous... He's actually been on a date or two since coming here, but they still unnerve him as much as they excite him - and a blind date? WHAT WAS HE THINKING?! It's only the fact that he doesn't want to leave someone date-less that keeps him in his seat, sweating nervously. The outfit doesn't help: he's dug up his suit from the gala, light gray with soft pink accents. It seemed fitting enough... not to mention it's the only really nice set of clothes he has.

Long moments pass by, and as Atsushi stresses himself out more and more, it gets to where he doesn't even notice his date arriving until a second too late. What a good first impression to make.]

Oh hello there fellow person who does not know why he's doing this.

[smithandwesson]

[Really, when Genjo Sanzo got the message that he had been signed up for this stupid blind date thing he was half-tempted to not show up at all. He knew the event existed, of course. Hell, he even signed up an accomplice of his in a mean spirited attempt at a prank. But to have his name thrown into the pot as well?

Karma really was a bitch, wasn't it?]

Oy.

[And so he stood there, not particularly dressed up for the occasion but instead donning his usual monks robes with an unlit cigarette dangling from his lips. If anything, the one thing that did stand out about him was the fact that he was absolutely sparkling as he stood there.

Literally.

Sparkling.

It wasn't quite his golden hair that was doing it. Nor was it his strikingly pale complexion. No, this older man was standing there, hand on his hip and giving the evil eye, shimmering as if he were covered in some sort of magical glitter.]

You're Atsushi? Right?

Prior Walter | Angels in America | open

[priorly]

[V. Singles Mingle]

[Though Prior may not have signed up for the matchmaking scheme - matchmaking being something to be done by the busybody Yenta in your life and not by random selection - he couldn't stay away from the party. After all, it's so pretty, and far better than being on an awkward date with a creature whose most fascinating aspect is the large wart on the end of their nose is watching other people manage in the same situation.

And just as good to watch the dates that go well, of course. The smiles people give each other that make Prior feel a wrench in his chest at once nostalgically wistful and just a touch jealous. Bittersweet. He's a positive lemon sherbet tonight. Love. Things blossoming. Like a springtime garden, it's nice to be around.

And nicer still after a drink. So: at the bar in a sharp suit with a rose pinned to the lapel, he orders champagne. One bottle, two glasses. You never know.

And when the bartender leans over to ask a question, he only pauses for a moment.]

What am I celebrating? Well, I usually say 'the me yet to come'. Though tonight I imagine the folk in the ballroom have more of a chance of that.

[VI: Wildcard]

[Prior's attending stag, hit me with anything you'd like <3 ]

[vorrutyer]

Oh, you'll come yet. Just find a pretty pair of lips.

[ From down the bar, a familiar face is grinning over at Prior. It was inevitable, of course, that By would find him in this crowd. Like he'd hit up a party without finding someone to really enjoy it with. ]

Of course, I'm going to go particularly sexless tonight, myself. They've paired me with a lawyer, Prior.

( closed ) for mika!

[cajolery]

[ Clair did a lot of research before showing up to this shindig—namely, asking a few of her friends what was typical for a "date" in this day and age. And wow, she got a lot of answers.

Somehow, this whole event hadn't been exactly what she was expecting—the dinner doesn't surprise her, since Richie warned her about that, but she doesn't see how she's supposed to take Mikazuki for a romantic pegasus ride? Also, there are no weapons here that would allow her to show off her knightly prowess and make him swoon...

At least she is dressed for the occasion, and that wasn't without extensive amounts of investigation either. Something nice and a little sexy—Mila help her—but not too sexy. Done. Now she's waiting for Mikazuki just inside the door, immersing herself in the decor, the atmosphere. It's all so very... red. And so... much, to her fascination.

So this is how one celebrates Valentine's Day? She's ready. ]

[sparsity]

[ This isn't exactly what he expected either when he'd come up on the address detailed in the note he got. Mikazuki similarly looked for advice on what constituted a date, exactly, and feels like he's still going into this on his own now that he's here. And wrangled into acceptable clothing, no less. But it's do or die (albeit less dire...) as always, so he slips through the door without much fanfare. What he sees draws his unguarded attention for a long moment.

Definitely different. Everyone made it sound like the pressure would be on to provide something entertaining to do, but it looks like a big party itself. Food, music. His favorite spot usually isn't in a loud room full of people, but — ]

Everything's so fluffy. [ Then the wave of sweetness and warmth reaches his nose, making him scan around him until he spots the most familiar face. ] ...hey.

Monty | A Gentleman's Guide To Vice and Virtue (ota)

[tourism]

} VI: WILDCARD: GATECRASHING

[Monty can't think why he didn't sign up for this dashed thing. Had there been an offputtingly large fee to pay? Perhaps he'd worried he'd be saddled with an ogre and expected to tickle its dangerous bits before the night was done. Honestly, he can't remember.

What it looks like now is that he foolishly turned down a night of free food, drinks and entertainments, all in the company of someone who would surely have struggled to resist his tremendous charms after such a splendid evening. He's been a damned idiot, but he intends to make the best of it.

After all, there seems to be the scantiest of security working the place, and it's easy to slip into the dining hall, rescue a glass of something fizzy from a passing tray and act like he belongs there.

Which is to say, stuff his pockets full of pastries and slide into a chair opposite someone attractive the second their date leaves the table (possibly just for the bathroom).]

Thank goodness they've gone. I couldn't hear much but I could feel how boring they were from over there. They exuded it, like a bad smell. And speaking of bad smells... [A sniff.] Though never mind that, I'm here now and I've bathed this morning. Would you care to dance?



} WILDCARD 2. ELECTRIC BOOGALOO

[Free choice! Hit Monty up.]

[fiendennor]

[The young woman he sits in front of is elegantly yet simply arraigned in an understated blue dress. She carries the general air of a girl of somewhat aristocratic upbringing, holding herself well and moving with a fairly practiced grace.

And she is also giving him a completely flat look (much like the one in the icon) as he slides into the seat recently vacated by her date, taking a short sip of water before she says anything.] That's quite funny. I've been finding her quite charming and an excellent conversationalist. I suppose taste isn't universal.

Still... [She glances toward the stage.] ...I can't say it's my favorite style of music, but the thought is oddly appealing.

Olivier Armstrong | ota

[wallofbriggs]

❚❚❚ Shall we dance?

[Olivier is quite sure her mother would be proud of her for all she's put up with tonight. She's playing nice and is doing all she can to keep up the Armstrong name instead of Briggs. Of course, this means putting on the sweetest smile she can anytime someone asks her to dance.

How much longer until the night is over?]

❚❚❚ Sweets for the… yeah no

[Who could turn down dessert? Most of the ones on the trays are familiar enough that when the waiter suggests she try something different (and promises the fish shaped treat wasn't actually made of fish) Olivier agrees.

This leads to a few issues as the first person she sees starts sparkling everywhere.]

How are you doing that? [Better yet.] Stop it.

❚❚❚ Single lady

[The night has not been a total waste or disaster, she likes Reinhardt except the man is just a bit much at times. Seriously, what the hell is she going to do with these damn roses?

She tosses them on the bar and takes a seat before ordering something decidedly less everything the night has been so far.]

I hope someone is enjoying this.

❚❚❚ Wild Card

((OOC: generic offer of make your own prompt if these don't work or feel free to PM me or hit me up at purkle))

Closed to Reign

[ysayle]

[ Someone is not supposed to be here.

Or, rather, Ysayle did not willingly sign to participate. She did not sign up at all, in fact. But given her conversation with You regarding Valentines vs Valentione's Day, perhaps the girl had thought it was consent to include her. So here she is, dressed in a long dark blue gown, draping fabrics in styles typical to Wyver and its climate, baring her back.

The Elezen looks especially pale this way, particularly with the silver-grey hair worn braided and pulled up, and she circles the table bearing the small card bearing her name, and that of her assigned 'date'. The name is entirely unfamiliar, meaning she knows not what or who to expect, and she frowns as she leans forward to read the menu (or, more specifically, the desserts) while she waits. ]

Why would anyone eat these..?

[eaudevamp]

[ On the other hand, Reign was quite excited about this Valentine's Day date night... thingy. He'd never been to one, much less come close to experiencing what the atmosphere was like. So when he'd received the invitation of sorts through text, Reign had happily signed up.

Nonetheless, he was also nervous as to who his date would be. What if they didn't like him? Perhaps even fear him upon knowing what he was? In the end, dressed in a tasteful outfit befitting of his style, Reign headed for the table, his gaze perusing the names until he came upon his own.

It seemed his date for the night was a non-human. A beautiful woman, if he was honest with himself. ]

Because they're curious, I suppose. [ Reign chuckled as he bowed before Ysayle. ] Good evening. Miss Ysayle, yes? I hope I've got your name right. [ It wouldn't do to get the pronunciation wrong. He then gestured to the seat opposite hers, a soft smile on his lips. ] May I?

tim drake | dc comics

[timboslice]

ARRIVAL: MR. WORLDWIDE
[ Tim got the invitation. Does he want to go? Of course not. Does he feel that he must? Even less so. But as it is, being a new arrival hasn't given Tim much of an opportunity to socialize ever since he crash-landed. At the very least, this is an opportunity to scout potential allies, or better yet... go back to making actual friends. Tim can't remember attending a social function without some greater agenda, like appearing where he suspects a group of criminals will strike next. Maybe this is a chance to let down his hair, finally be himself without having to worry about a mission at any given time.

Fat chance of that happening. He's here as 'Alvin Draper,' for Christ's sake.

Anyway, he's made it to You's event in a spiffy getup (you know he had to do it to 'em). He's noticed the confusion around him and remains glued to his phone, taking his sweet time before he ever decides to find his assigned table. ]

DINNER: CLOSED TO HANA SONG
[ There it is, then. Hana Song written on the nametag across from Tim's Alvin Draper's, candle between them to accentuate the romance in the air. It's a little hokey, Tim would say, but he's secretly relieved that of all people You could've matchmade Tim with, it was Hana. See, the two have already met a few times, experiencing a life-threatening situation here and there. Tim thinks it's nice to be saddled with someone he can trust - it makes the prospect of doing literally anything else at this party seem less daunting. ]

Well. Fancy meeting you here, I guess.

And by that, I don't mean You. I mean you.

[ Count on Tim to hurt himself in his confusion. ]

DANCE: OPPA ROBIN STYLE
[ Okay, Tim normally wouldn't dance if he could help it, but how could he not in this case? The music just seems too easy to dance to, and this is probably the closest he'll ever get to genuinely cutting loose. And while he's spent a good amount of time dancing with Hana, it's obvious that neither of them mind parting ways to mingle on the dance floor.

So they do just that, but Tim moonwalking away from Hana might prove to be a mistake - what with him bumping into someone else because of it. ]

Sorry, haven't moonwalked in ages!

PASTRIES: WELCOME TO FLAVORTOWN
[ When a waiter offers Tim a variety of pastries, he takes one of everything on a plate and heads back to his original table. He has no plans of eating every last thing, but he likes knowing he's got stuff to snack on as he sits down and gets back on his phone.

What's gonna happen when he nonchalantly grabs a pastry without looking, takes a bite, and eventually looks around at his surroundings?

To anyone in the vicinity, consider this a choose-your-own-adventure sort of prompt, except with the pastries listed in the OP! do your goddamn worst ]

WILDCARD
( if you've got anything else in mind, feel free to say hewwo! )

Dance

[inaurare]

"Moonwalked"...?

[he... will venture that it is a type of dance, going by the context, but of what type he isn't sure. Only that he was nudged - but he was just lingering around the dance floor. He doesn't know how to dance to this kind of music.]

Forgive me, I don't understand...

Mai | OTA

[maipokerface]

[II - Closed to Sora]
[Parties weren't really Mai's thing. The people watching was somewhat amusing but most parties had been soured for her thanks to going to so many political affairs as a child and the most recent Gala.

So why had she signed up? Why had she even expected an invitation? Why has she dressed up? Mai peers at her name on this particular table with a healthy frown. She confused herself a lot of the time.

Eventually, all she can do is sigh.]

I must be some kind of idiot.

[IV - Desserts; OTA]

[Okay sure, why not. There's so many different types when the waiter wheels by that Mai just sort of ends up with a pastry in either hand. Neither of which she's quite sure what the heck they are.]

Uh.

[Should she just test them?]

[VI - Wildcard; OTA]
[Feel free to hit me up with any prompt you like. PM me if you're unsure!]

closed to Thor Odinson

[sheriffing]

[ showing up at all is a decision that Emma has made against her better judgement. nothing good has ever come from a "special surprise" on February 14th -- especially one organized by a stranger for reasons completely unknown to Emma. she wouldn't have signed up for this on her own, wouldn't have willingly volunteered for the ridiculous hell that is a blind date on Valentine's day.

but it's either that or an empty apartment and an evening where she's guaranteed to dwell over the memory of a pirate who used to pine for her, or the parents whose love was so true that Walt Disney found a way to monetize it. she opts for the unknown just for the sake of getting out of her place for a while, clad in a red coat and leather dress. it's comfortable enough to fight in if this is a trap, because that thought has crossed her mind a few times, too.

she's learned to expect the worst. they're not in Storybrooke anymore. in this world, it only makes sense to.

walking in, the only battle to be found is between dueling red and pink hearts that are more than a little excessive, and she's not sure whether she's relieved or disappointed when she's directed towards perfectly ordinary tables obviously meant for two. the names at the empty ones are most unfamiliarly, at least until she spots her own and is led over to her seat. any attempts to question her server just earn her a knowing smile and a suggestion of a specialty drink ( which she accepts, because she has a feeling she'll need it), before the candles are lit and Emma is left to wait.

it gives her just enough time to take her coat off before she looks over, finally getting a glimpse of the name on the chair across from hers. there's something between amusement and disbelief in her tone when she says it aloud, and somehow her timing is just good enough to catch him approaching in the same moment.] Thor.

[ two minutes in, and no - this isn't really how she saw the night going. her "date" is the front end of the dragon.]

[worldsaway]

[Thor approaches the evening with a measured amount of caution, but he isn't anticipating the worst. It can't be anything worse than what he's dealt with over the past month and a bit, surely, and there's food and drink. That's just about all he needs for incentive.

Besides, he's new here, and it's as good a time as any to mingle amongst the other people in a similar situation. He should branch out and meet new people, but he's not disappointed when he finds the person he's matched with is a little familiar.

He's dressed nicely for the evening. His old vest and pants combo has seen better days, and he doesn't want anyone to think he doesn't care about this. He does.

A smile splits Thor's face quickly as he moves to take his seat. He's instantly amused by the fact that of all the people they could have matched with, they got each other.]

Emma. [He replies, his expression is sly.] Nice to see you again so soon.

closed to tracer.

[rightfully]

[ A blind date is an unknown variable to Lucina, from the contemporary courtship rituals to a term she barely recognises. Fortunately, there are some universals: wear something nice, show up, don't spill anything - what does she even talk about? She had only volunteered to participate because of the organiser's effort, although there's nothing wrong with possibly making a new friend. In a bizarre attempt to overcompensate, she shows up a good twenty minutes before the dates are scheduled to start.

So, here's Lucina, in an ill-advised dress that clashes magnificently with her hair, nametag helpfully stuck above her breast, sitting politely at a table. Every few moments, she starts to look through the menu, and then closes it as if she had done something wrong.

Also, whenever she sees someone that might be her date, she stands up. As you do. ]

[quevalry]

[ different era's have different ways of doing dates. it's hard to tell how she should dress and shouldn't, what way she should behave, so lena is just going to be herself when it comes to this. besides, this is just for a little bit of fun.

it isn't like she has to take this seriously. it's part of the reason her outfit is such a mix of being classy and relaxed with her own nametag being stuck on the breast part of her jacket. ]

Hey, luv, it's nice to meet you. [ she gives lucina a grin. ] There's no need to stand up. Sit, please.

Miles Vorkosigan | OTA

[dendarii]

[ Miles does not understand the relevance of the day - nor how in the world he was invited anywhere in the first place. But. All right, why the hell not? He's still trying to figure this place out, and at this point a free meal is worth the trouble of getting here.

He holds onto his invitation with curled, rather cramped fingers; his stature is equally squashed and kind of bent, with a relatively normal-sized head on a body that's only 4'8". But his green military uniform is very finely tailored, and he holds himself like some sort of foreign lord. What he lacks in physicality, he makes up in personality.

Without much else to go on, he makes his way towards the seat with his name on it. And the name opposite him - Clarke? Huh. He has no idea who that is.

Mostly he's here for his date, but - well, he's happy to talk to anyone who might come up to him. ]

[romancekiller]

[clarke has learned the meaning behind valentine's day through looking into it after a few mentions on the network, it's something she decides is another weird earth holiday. she finds herself similarly surprised by the invitation but given it was something her friend seems to have organized she decides to just check it out.

she dresses fairly casually despite the purpose of the event and when she arrives with her invitation in hand, she is still just as confused but she does eventually spot a table with her name placed on one of the seats. clarke approaches and seeing someone else there at her table she offers a slight smile with her greeting] Oh— hey. Are you seated here too? My name is Clarke.

Peter Nureyev

[rosebyanyother]

[Peter absolutely did not sign up for this, but having received a mystery invitation...well. He'd been curious. (The thought briefly crossed his mind that it might somehow be a trap, but who could he have possibly offended in this short a period of time?)

He actually...has absolutely no idea what the celebration is for. The date doesn't really hold particular significance to him (old Earth traditions are so inscrutable), but it sounds as if it's a party. By happenstance he puts on a nice, dark red lipstick and picks something nice to wear.]

I
[Showing up, he surveys the decorations - my that is a lot of red and so many hearts - with curiosity and perhaps an inkling of growing understanding. This does...ring a bell...perhaps.

Still, he turns to the person closest to him with eyebrows slightly raised.]

Do you know what all this is about?

II - closed to Zevran
[There appears to be a table set for him, and a companion. Or, at the very least, for "Alexander Noble" and his companion. Peter still wonders how exactly his information had been acquired. He's glad, though, that the half-remembered deal he'd struck is being upheld. Whoever got his "name" had been supplied with the alias. That's at least comforting.

Peter lounges in his seat for a while, people-watching, until someone actually approaches his table. His expression is one of faint interest, somewhat privately amused.

And what a person! Peter both metaphorically and physically perks up, bright eyes just a little brighter. He gets to his feet with an equally bright smile, leaning forward just a little.]

Zevran, I take it?

V
[Peter's assigned date is lovely, but once Peter understands what this is he feels it's in his best interest to also use the gathering to socialize more widely. Hopefully this sort of party puts everyone in a good mood...or he can be there to peek at dates gone wrong. There's amusement in that too.

At some point, then, he ends up at the bar off to the side. He's got a glass of wine in one hand and a welcoming smile on his face for anyone who wants to approach. Or someone who just gets too close within range of his curiosity.]

Here alone? Or is the night not going particularly well? At the moment.

[Because it can always turn around! Anyway, please entertain him.]

[agradecido]

[Zevran, on the other hand, signed up willingly; he'd even taken it upon himself to sign up a few of his more...intractable acquaintances. If nothing else, it was a good way to meet new people, mingle, and have a decent meal. If something more comes of it, all the better.

Not that he's thinking of relationships himself. He still doesn't let himself go there. But his friends deserve to be happy, whatever form that might take.

He approaches with a smile and extends his hand, palm up. Humorously, he's managed to choose an outfit for the night that mirrors his companion's, which was entirely accidental but makes him smile regardless.]

And you must be Mr. Noble. I must say, you're looking stunning this evening.

[Actually, his first thought was "pretty," but it's always a gamble who's appreciative of being called that. Better to err on the side of caution. "Delectable" would also work, he thinks, but better to not say immediately.]