2012-07-14 It's Good For The Heart

The party is mere minutes away from starting and it is a whirlwind of activity with caterers laying out trays of food and the band members tuning their instruments and the ice carvers taking one last look to make sure the sculptures are set up just right. It lends an air of chaos to the environment but there's one calm person to be found, that being the hostess for the evening's affair.

Selina Kyle, dressed in black and diamonds, is simply looking around, smiling as she watches the people do their thing. Confident that everyone knows what they are doing, she lets them be while she enjoys a glass of champagne before the guests start to arrive.

The clock hits eight o'clock and the band begins to play, something from the Big Band Era. It's the kind of music that should be easy for people to dance to or, if they're not inclined to hit the floor, at the very least enjoy. The waiters start to become a bit more attentive, preparing for the attendees to come through the door.

After meeting up at the Themysciran embassy, Kit accompanied Donna to the charity event in a rented limousine. It's not a "stretch" limousine, so it's not overly ostentatious. He helps her out of the car and takes her arm in his, grinning at her as they make their way inside. "I'm glad you agreed to come," he says to the young woman, "especially since the music is something I can actually dance to." He's not really one for most modern music, but that's likely not a surprise by now. He can't help but keep glancing at her; it's the first time someone really dolled themselves up for him, even if it's not technically for /him/ as much as for a /ball/. Still, it feels nice to have a beautiful woman on his arm.

It's not surprising that quite a few heads have turned at the arrival of the Martian. Who is now engaged in quiet conversation with one of the staff. "I believe uniform is appropriate, but I can easily change if it is not." Apparently, for him, changing clothes is something he can do quickly. He's drawing quite a few eyes, though. After all, he's likely the only person here who is obviously not human. He's also a member of the President's new Justice League...so far, the only one who has shown up to this event. Which implies that his attendance probably is not as an official representative per se. Still, he *looks* official, right now.

"Keep an eye on Mr. /Dawson/, and lay low. I will return in a few hours." Those were the instructions Bane had given before leaving. He had 'errands' to run, the least of which was picking up certain attire that had been ordered some days ago. He had changed on site into the expensive attire that molded to his heavy frame, seeming just as content to be in finery as filth. A few last minute checks of his person: false identification, papers... everything seemed in order for his attendance to this event.

He was one of the first, if not /the/ first, to arrive, his own vehicle a rental as well, albeit one driven by a member of the crew who had been given strict orders to keep his mouth shut. Dire consequences weren't in it for his tongue flapping about tonight, or even thinking about it. "I will call you when ready," is all the man in the Armani said to his 'driver' after getting out, dark eyes coolly composed as the man posing under the name Alejandro de la Guerra made his way to join the gala.

Another limo pulls up and when the door is opened, Alan Scott gets out of the back. He's in black tie of course, as is only appropriate but he went that little extra step and is wearing tails as well. The clothes are tailored perfectly and undoubtedly expensive so he fits right in. Turning, he offers a hand to help another man out of the limo. Slightly smaller than Alan, he's of Asian decent but dressed just as impeccably thought without tails. As they enter side by side, their body language makes it clear they're a couple.

Linking her arm with his, Donna makes her way indoors at Kit's side. "How could I say no when you were so charming in how you asked?" A light teasing before she smirks. "I can't promise to be the best partner. It's been a long time since I've danced to anything like this." Another lifetime, in fact. Blue-Green eyes cut up to Kit and warm smile is offered to him. "Thank you for inviting me." A gloved hand comes up to tuck a piece of shimmering black hair behind her ear.

Selina takes her place by the door as people start to arrive, more than willing to play greeter. It only makes sense, after all. She is the one holding the event, after all.

When people pass into the threshold and enter the ballroom proper she offers a hand to kiss or a polite "faire la bise" (cheek kiss), all based on the level of familiarity she shares with the person she's saying hello to, the epitome of a woman very much in her element.

Really, Kit couldn't tell how many people are staring at him or his date. Aside from enjoying being the young woman's date, he's still trying to take it all in. They don't make places like this back home. When they get to Selina Kyle, he bows as he takes her hand, placing a light kiss on its back. "Thank you for holding this event," he says to the woman. "If we may take up a moment of your time, I am Christopher Walker and I'd like to introduce my date, Donna Troy." He won't take up much of her time, of course, as busy as he's sure she must be, but it's only police to thank her for doing all of this and make the introductions.

Human customs, not as alien to the Martian as they once were. Selina gets a smile and a deeply spoken "Greetings," and the hand kissing is, while something he is not *used* to, is not an issue for him. "I hope my presence does not cause too much distraction. My name is J'onn J'onzz." Because titles and codenames do *not* seem quite appropriate right now, he uses his real name...hard for humans to pronounce, but not that hard for most to get *close* to, at least.

When Kit finishes speaking and Donna's introduced, she offers a warm smile and a polite greeting as is customary to Selina. "A truly awe inspiring setting setting for what is sure to be a memorable evening. Thank you." She can only imagine the hard work and attention to detail that went into the planning and pulling together of something like this.

Selina dips her chin, letting her head angle downward when Christopher addresses her, the introduction getting her to smile. "It is a pleasure meeting you Mister Walker. Ms. Troy. I do hope you'll enjoy the evening. And thank you, Ms. Troy. I am very pleased with how everything has turned out thus far." Normally Selina would stay and mingle J'onn greets her and she makes her pardons to the couple to say hello to him.

"Mister J'onzz. It is an honor to have you with us tonight. Thank you. I do hope you'll enjoy your evening. Let me know if there's anything we can do..."

Heads tilted toward each other, Alan and his companion are quietly talking to each other as they make their way toward Selina. "Miss Kyle." Alan says with a smile as they take their turn. "It's always a pleasure to support your charity." GBC has been a regular supporter since the first one was held and Alan has been sure to attend each one. "Allow me to present Samuel Li." The other man kisses the back of Selina's hand when it's offered and makes the appropriate pleasantries.

Martian Manhunter inclines her head. "I have no special requirements." Fortunately. "And I greatly appreciate What you are doing for the animals." Some might argue humans come first, but even if J'onn might think that, he would not say it in front of somebody who has done so much to protect the large felines. A good thing, too. They are, after all, a valuable and beautiful part of this world's ecosystem. Once he moves on, he claims something from a passing tray.

Another small bow, then Kit says, "My pleasure to give the money to such a worthy event, Miss Kyle," and with that he goes to leave her to the introductions and such things. She's already becoming quite busy, and he doesn't want to take up any more of her time. He'll lead Donna further in, looking around appreciatively. No expense spared, indeed. "I told you this was going to be quite a bash, but even I didn't expect something like this," he murmurs to Donna, trying to keep his comparatively newness to such surroundings at least somewhat discreet.

Selina can not help but to flush slightly, pleased by J'onn's praise. "Thank you. I appreciate it. Please, do mingle, enjoy yourself." Alan is a face she most definitely recognizes and he gets a kiss on the cheek, if allowed, a fond peck that is over just about as quick as it is given if it is. "Mister Scott. My goodnes. So good to see you. Been entirely too long since the last, though. We shouldn't wait a year between meetings." Alan's companion is given a polite bow of her head. "Mister Li. Thank you for coming." They are allowed to go in further while she remains by the door.

"I agree completely, Miss Kyle. We must make plans sometime." Alan's people will call her people. Maybe their people will do lunch or something. Making room for other arrivals, he and Sam move further into the room, looking around approvingly. "You were right." Sam tells him. "I am impressed. Wait here and I'll go get us some drinks. I see someone with champagne over there."

Another smile is given to Selina and then Donna's moving on, arm linked with Kit's. Further in and her eyes widen just the tiniest bit before she school's her features back to a pleasant smile. Never in her life has she attended something like this but, hey, she watches television!

Sea color eyes glance up to Kit and she smiles warmly. "It really has been beautifully done." Her hand tightens on his arm slightly, giving an encouraging squeeze.

"Miss Kyle. Mucho gusto," the approaching man in grey would say, when it comes time for greeting the hostess of the event. His dark eyes briefly studying her before breaking away as he politely places his lips to Selina's hand. "Alejandro Manuel de la Guerra." He injects a faint hint of a Spanish accent into his English as he gives that false name, though he's fluent in both. The alias amused Bane as a choice, the name itself a subtle message for the now to describe the future. Quite aside from his purpose in being here in the first place. "I imagine tonight will be enchanting, no?" A rhetorical question, that, as he glances back to the rest of the line, before offering a flicker of a smile before progressing further in.

More people move in, more people get greeted. Some are celebs within Gotham, some public officials. Others are people Selina has yet to meet before tonight. "Well, hello. It is a pleasure to meet you, Mister de la Guerra. I do hope that tonight will be such, yes! It is shaping up to be wonderful already." She affords Alehandro a warm smile as she adds, "I do hope you will enjoy yourself."

The District Attorney can't not be here. She always shows up to these sorts of events, even if she isn't exactly a member of the glitterati. She is, after all -- at least, she's been called by the press -- the most powerul and the most dangerous woman in Gotham City. Quietly she'd disagree, but she's also just the smallest bit gratified.

She walks in unescorted, but no less proud for that: her carriage is erect, her eyes bright, her lips faintly smiling as she moves through the crowd. Here a handshake. There a smile and a few words. And if she's upset about her lack of escort, she's not letting it show.

After a soft an appreciative whistle, Kit goes to lead Donna toward a table, saying, "Darn right it is. Do they have anything like this in The--They--where you come from?" That last is said as he pulls her chair out for her, so he can help her into it and help her scoot closer to the table. Then he takes his own chair, giving them a moment to chat and look around before worrying about food.

Poor Janet is set upon just as soon as she walks in, Selina swift to greet the woman she met several days ago while out and about in Gotham. "Ms. van Dorn! I am so glad you could arrive. It wouldn't be a party with out you." She can not help but to notice Janet's alone but she doesn't call attention to that fact, not wanting to do so and poke thorns into what should be a lovely night out for the District Attorney. "I do hope you are well."

"Themyscira." Donna pronounces the word slowly so Kit can see how it's said as she settles herself into the chair that's pulled out for her. "No. Themyscira is an island full of Amazons. The ones from legends..." Donna has never bothered trying to hide who or what she is. "Their gatherings are far different and I was only raised there part of this life." A soft and quiet laugh comes from the young woman as she casts another glance around. "It will take a bit of adjusting, I believe."

Martian Manhunter munches on a sausage wrapped in potato. He glances around, looking for somebody interesting...and possibly a shield against anyone who wants to 'accost' him with awkward questions. Like Janet, he's clearly on his own...although in his case that might be less surprisingl. Red eyes do rest on the District Attorney for a moment.

Turning to Selina with a bright if slightly strained smile, Janet reaches out to either embrace her or clasp her hand. "It hasn't really been the best week," she says. "What with the break-ins and the hostage business and... well, I guess the best thing I can say is that my date is presumably just late and I haven't actually been *shot* yet, so that's all good." Her eyes move around the room and pause just a few times. Certainly at the tall black-haired woman next to Kit. Certainly, and with a little eye-widening, at the Martian. Not horror, exactly, but just a little fascination. And when he looks her way, she gives him a friendly enough smile. "I hope you've had a better week than I have?" she inquires, looking Selina's way again.

Alan Scott collects two plates full of hors d'oeuvers and offers one to Sam when he returns, taking a glass of champagne in return. After a few minutes of discussing the decorations, Sam spots someone he's done business with and goes to talk to the man leaving Alan for the time being. Naturally, the green guy in short shorts gets a lot of attention.

The callout to Ms. van Dorn by the hostess gets his attention. Turning his eyes away from the interior catches sight of the District Attorney, and under guise of taking a drink, 'Alejandro'-Bane samples it, looking at Janet for the space of a few seconds before returning his gaze around. He's giving J'onn a bit of berth as well, preferring to keep largely to himself at the time, despite the fact that his eyes are focusing more on people, rather than decor and appetizers. He wants to see just who comes to this sort of thing; the better to remember them later, after all.

"Yeah, that," says Kit in response to the correct pronunciation of Donna's home. He can speak a few languages, but Greek just continues to trip him up. "You'll have to tell me about their gatherings, and I can tell you about the ones in Mawitaan. In the meantime, would you care for something to eat, or drink?" He glances over at the food tables, then grins at his date. "Looks like they've got a little bit of everything we won't get the chance to try again for a while." That's when some part of his brain clicks on the Martian Manhunter. Not his comparably odd appearance--the fact that he'd just read somewhere that the alien had become part of a--group--thing. He hadn't really paid attention as closely as he should have.

Not like J'onn is readily forgettable. He smiles back to Janet, then, after a moment of hesitation, makes his way towards her, snagging a beverage on the way. It's champagne, and he actually sniffs at it slightly before taking a drink. Hard to tell whether he's trying to assess the vintage or whether he's not sure he *likes* champagne.

Donna smiles up at Kit. "After the random swim earlier, food actually sounds wonderful." And she can't help but laugh, eyes sparkling brightly. "I somehow doubt they have my lattes so water would be just fine." Her head then tilts. "I'll tell you all you want to know about Themyscira. Really though, it was pretty boring compared to New York." Of course, most things are boring compared to New York, all things considered.

It seems like the first initial rush of attendees has passed which means Selina can mingle and relax a bit before giving the speech she almost always gives when trying to raise funds for her foundation. Alan might very well recognize it but he's spared having to hear it again as she's not quite ready to take center stage.

Milling around the room puts her past Christopher and Donna who get a murmured 'Let me know how you like the food' as she drifts by, and Alejandro gets a smile. And then she's stopping by Alan. "My. I forget how hectic things can be when people first arrive. I need a drink."

Alan Scott smiles at Selina as she wanders over. "Allow me." Raising a hand, he beckons over one of the waiters and plucks a glass off the tray which he then offers to Selina. "You of all people deserve to partake of the bounty." he tells her. "Few others can host such a spectacular soiree."

Champagne and a little plate of nibbles. That's the order of the evening. Janet nods farewell to Selina as she heads off to mingle with everyone else, and she's lucky enough to be meeting... //All right, Janet. Don't be That Guy. Or girl or woman or whatever. Everyone asks this guy why he's green. Where he's from. For God's sake just treat him like a person.// So she smiles to J'onn as he walks up, taking a step toward him and offering her hand. "Welcome to Gotham City," she says. "My name's Janet van Dorn; I'm the DA. And you?" The smile actually is genuine. Whatever else Janet may be, she's not a bigot.

Which is always a good thing. "J'onn J'onzz, the Martian Manhunter." He smiles at the DA...it's not a Martian gesture per se, but he's practiced it. The title, of course, answers the 'where he's from question'...although isn't Mars a lifeless desert?

"Alright," says Kit to Donna, going to put his hand on hers. "I'll--" he stops himself when Selina mills on by, and he gives the woman a smile. "But of course, Miss Kyle," he says with a respectful nod before she heads off again. Clicking his tongue, he gets to his feet and looks to Donna, saying, "How many charity-throwers you think would make a personal appearance to guests like that even after the introductions? I doubt that number's going to be very high." Which makes him even more impressed with the whole event.

The drive from Metropolis was... yeah. It was a drive. Traffic was more like hell, but being given free tickets from a TV Exec, even if the 'no strings attached' comment was a bit dubious, had the reporter curious. Lois Lane fished the designer gown from her closet, found her good heels, and put her hair up in curlers for the drive. Yes, Lois Lane drove the freeways in a little black slip, because like hell she was going to sit in a designer gown for that drive. A quick pit stop to slip into something more formal and to pull the curlers out of her hair to clip the top half up and away, and Lois finally arrives.

She walks in, and tries not to look whelmed by the area. Instead, she draws herself up, puts on her best reporter smile, holds her clutch purse tightly in one hand (knowing her lipstick, her digital recording pen, and trusty notepad are in there is more than a lot like security blanket), Lois strides in and takes a moment to look around. There's Kyle. There's Scott. And there's Jon?! Her smile turning to a faint smirk, the Planet Reporter makes her way toward Kyle and Scott first. Gotta thank the host and the person responsible for getting her on the guest list, of course.

The glass is taken gracefully from Alan and is sipped from, the drink exactly what she needs at the moment. Not that Selina has nerves to quell, this all being old hat to the woman, but it is getting a little warm in here thanks to how many people are starting to group together and mingle. Body heat does nothing to help one with keeping their literal cool, after all. "I hope I won't bore you too much with my speech," Selina says with a playful pout. She then bumps shoulders with him. "Thank you. I am glad you still like coming to the parties I throw."

"Of course. Thank you, Ms. Kyle." Donna may be out of her element but the young woman knows how to be polite and well mannered. Her attention is on Kit then as Selina moves on. "She's very attentative, yes. It's quite the impressive feat really." She scans the crowd once more, smiling gently the entire time. It really does seem to be quite the turn out. "She doesn't seem to have held back on expenses either." Alright, so there's a tad bit of overwhelming awe there.

Still watching, still thinking, the man who truthfully calls himself Bane watches as Janet converses with the... green man. There might be a hint of curiosity to him, as he studies the District Attorney and... Martian? conversing, but still he keeps aloof for now. Plenty of opportunities to draw the D.A. aside, either here or some other time. He has a glass of champagne in his hand, though he scarcely touches the drink. In fact, he hasn't touched it at all outside of holding the thing. His eyes cast about, again catching sight of Ms. Kyle, and it's to her that Bane goes, casual in his step as he decides on his course of seemingly idle action.

"Of course not. I merely stop listening at that point." Alan tells Selina, grinning a little. "Instead, I watch how your other guests are reacting to it. It gives me an idea of their who they are. But in addition to the usual this year..." The usual being monetary donations, "I'd like to offer you some air time for your cause. If you'd care to create a commercial, I'd be willing to air it." Not during prime time of course but there's twenty four hours in a day. Lifting his own glass for a sip, he spots a familiar face walking over. "Ah, Miss Lane. You decided to attend after all."

"So... actually from Mars then? Or if not, what *is* the origin of that title?" John Jones? Really? Janet can hear the faint hike in his voice indicating that the name isn't quite that simple. "A 'Manhunter'. It sounds like a bounty hunter of some kind, but somehow that doesn't seem quite right."

Softly. "Yes, I am from Mars." And green. It looks like some of the stuff the pulp guys have said and written has, in fact, been proved true. He claims a canape from a passing tray. "But Earth is my home now." There is nothing left on the red planet...although perhaps, there is always hope.

Selina shakes her head, smiling at Alan. "Why am I not surprised that you have? Stopped listening, to me, I mean. Maybe this is a sign that I should hire a speech writer or something." The offer of air time has Selina touched but she's distracted from saying so when Lois joins them, the woman recognized from the time they happened upon each other. "Ms. Lane."

It's a Paris-runway, special ordered, someone had loads of money, sort of dress; one of those rich black numbers that was seen earlier this season and probably cost more than a full-year's salary, and yet Lois wears it as easily as she can. Thank God for breaking it in already! She smiles at Alan, giving him a nod.

"Well, you were so kind as to help me get on the guest list, I figured I'd at least pop in and say hi," Lois quips at him before givign Selina a soft nod. "Ms. Kyle. It's good to see you again. Did my partner ever call you," she asks with warmth in her slightly business tone.

"No kidding," Kit agrees with another grin, then adds, "Alright, back in a moment." And with that, he heads to the tables, collecting two plates and choosing a few bits of this, a few bits of that. He does grab a couple of escargot, as he's actually had them before. He spends a few moments choosing carefully, glancing around at what other patrons are choosing.

"The 'green' part is pretty evident. "That's... I can safely say I've never met anyone from Mars," Janet says slowly. "Before now, anyway. What are you doing on Earth? I mean... why are you here? And what is it you do?"

"By no means; you're a wonderful speaker. I just like to see who actually cares about the cause or is bored and obviously just here to get a deduction and be seen at an Event." Alan's tone obviously capitalizes 'event'. "You look wonderful, Miss Lane." In truth, he wondered if she had something suitable to wear but wouldn't have dreamed of saying anything.

"I would rather not darken this occasion by speaking at length about...what happened on Mars." Yeah. let's not go there right now. "As for what I am doing...Superman asked me to join the Justice League." So, he's one of the good guys. "I hope I am not making you...uncomfortable." Oh. A Lois. He spots her and lifts a green hand, sort of somewhere between wave and salute.

"Of course," she murmurs softly to Kit as steps away. Another glance around has Donna's eyes landing on Lois and the young woman smirks. At least the reporter isn't hanging from a crane this time! This is a good thing! Of course, her eyes only touch on the woman for a moment before moving over to watch Kit as moves through the crowd.

"Thank you, Mr. Scott," Lois replies to Alan, smiling. "You look rather dashing yourself," she adds as her gaze is drawn by the green hand lifted in her direction.

"Oh. No!" Janet says hastily. "No, you're not making me uncomfortable. My day pretty much consists of dealing with people who make me feel uncomfortable, and you don't fit the bill. You're joining the Justice League? That *is* impressive. I hope we won't need much League intervention here in Gotham; we have our problems, but we do our best to sort them out on our own. I hope the city's treating you well so far?" She tilts her head and indicates her own champagne, adding: "How do you like it?"

"No, Ms. Lane, your partner hasn't, yet. Now, if you'll excuse me," Selina says while smiling, "I think I have some people to bore." Alan's handed her glass and then she's off, heading to the stage. The microphone's handed to her by the bandleader who leans over, whispering something into her ear which has her laughing. "No, there will be no need for that," she says, replying to whatever had been spoken quietly. She then turns to face the party goers, her face held in an expression of joy.

"Excuse me... I would like a moment of your time, if I may? I promise not to take too much of your time. I would just like to say a few words."

"I admit...I am uncertain of the taste," J'onn notes with a smile, and then turns his attention to Selina. Unlike some of those here, he has *not* heard her Feline Foundation Speech before. She seems in a good mood. Or very good at faking it, which is always possible.

"Of course, Miss Kyle." Alan takes her glass and sets it down on a nearby table. As promised, as Selina prepares to give her speech, his attention isn't on her but on the other guests.

The DA's eyes are warm as she smiles, glancing at the champagne flute. "It's an acquired taste," she says softly. "You might enjoy the punch more. Fruity. Alcohol almost always has that little tang." She glances to where he waves, inclining her head to -- well, she recognizes Lois Lane because you can't hide a reporter, not even under a dress Janet knows for a fact *she* can't afford and is wondering just briefly how Lois can. Her own dress, by comparison, is almost embarrasingly cheap. She almost hopes Bruce doesn't come so he can make the comparison. Looking up to Selina then, she falls silent as the speech begins -- but her eyes do flick to the large gentleman just there. The one that looked at her. Twice, maybe. Her mental Rolodex flips its cards as she tries to place him.

After carefully choosing a small variety of treats, Kit retrieves a glass of water and heads back to Donna. He sets the glass before her followed by one of the plates, then his own, and is just about to sit down, complete with mouth open in preparation of making a comment, when the host calls for the guests' attention. He turns his attention to the stage, arching a brow in curiosity.

He brought a phone with him. Bane /did/ say he would call his driver. "Any sight of them arriving?" he says after dialing the number, and still holding the champagne in his free hand. He's casting his eyes about now, having stopped a short distance away from Selina. The answer must be 'no' from the other end, as he's saying into the phone, "We'll have to talk with them more directly elsewhere, then. I am done here." And he shuts the cell he brought with him.

"Miss Kyle," he murmurs in his deep voice, coming up to Selina again after depositing the phone. "Would that I could stay longer for your event than briefly, but business never waits for people such as we, no? Perhaps an anonymous donation might make its way to your organization later, to make up for it." There's a faint hint of a smile, one that doesn't quite reach his eyes as he offers something that might be the suggestion of a bow, arm over his abdomen, and then the grey-suited man is making his way to depart.

"Thank you, Mr. Scott," Lois replies to Alan, smiling. "You look rather dashing yourself," she adds. When Selina replies that Kent hasn't called her, Lois purses her lips and looks faintly annoyed. She's about to comment, but Selina excuses herself, and so turns to the stage to listen to the speech herself. Halfway through the motion, her gaze is caught by the green hand wave-saluting in her direction. A soft smile comes to her face for the martian, and Lois murmurs a soft 'excuse me' to Alan, left hand reaching out to brush his elbow. Using the time it takes Selina to get to the microphone, Lois makes her way over to J'onn's side. As she approaches, Lois gives Janet a faint smile, that reporter's smile of 'hi, i'm friendly as long as you're not hiding anything news worthy from me'. Her violet eyes scan over the dress. Yeah. Lois has that exact same dress. Even had it on for a date, when the currently worn little number was handed over in one of those little french boxes. When Wayne gifts you a dress...

"Good evening, Jon," Lois murmurs softly, then nods to Janet in wordles greeting that has all the hint of: introductions after the speech.

"First off," Selina begins, "I would like to thank you all for coming out tonight. It is always wonderful to see familiar faces and make new friends and this evening is definitely not an exception to that." She pauses, letting that sink in before continuing. "As you all know, I have made it my life's mission to help the big cats of the world by donating to various charities that work to see that they will not have to face extinction. This is a fight that we can not take on alone. Therefore, I turn to you for help." Another pause, Selina turns on her million-watt smile, looking about the room via a sweep of her gaze.

"It doesn't take much, truly. A bit of money, some time volunteering... the possibilities are endless. All it requires is the desire and the drive." There's more but she halts for the nonce before she gets too wordy.

A warm smile is given to Kit from Donna as the water is sat down in front of her. She manages a soft, "Thank you" before Selina is calling for people's attention. She immediately turns her eyes to the stage and tilts her head curiously. There's no doubt she's paying attention to what the woman is saying.

"So please. Take some time while you are here and search your hearts. See just where it guides you. Decide how you'd like to help tonight. No amount of effort is too small and every bit truly, truly helps. Open your hearts... and yes, maybe even your wallets, and let's work as a team to make sure our children and their children will never have to experience the loss of our majestic feline companions. Thank you."

Selina returns the mic to the stand before ascending the stairs, intending on rejoining Alan before returning to mingling.

Martian Manhunter smiles. "Ms. Lane. A pleasure to meet you, as ever." Apparently, he knows the journalist. His eyes do follow Janet towards the big guy, but he's vanished into the crowd before the Martian detective can get a good look at him. Thus, he turns his attention back to the ladies. "A worthy cause...Earth has some truly beautiful animals."

Alan's watching more than listening but his gaze ended up staying on Sam who's across the room and no doubt waiting for Selina to finish to discuss more business. He's smiling ever so slightly as he watches his but looks back to Selina and politely applauds with the others as she finishes her speech.

Among the people who applaud is Janet, setting down her drink and meal and smiling up to Selina as her speech finishes. She doesn't look at Lois again except to give her the patented why-hello-reporter-I-have-nothing-but-canned-words-for-you smile. Her own dress is vintage. One nice thing about that: nobody else is likely to show up in the same thing. Nodding politely to J'onn, she doesn't say she'd focus on charities to help humans: there's no wrongness in trying to make the world better, after all.

When the speech ends, Kit joins in the applause, leaning to Donna and saying, "It's nice to see someone focused on animals, I think. So many people running around in tights helping people--which is of course a good thing--it's nice to see someone doing so much for another good cause." Once the applause fades, he scoots his seat a bit and settles in, resting his forearms on the table.

Selina leans in against Alan once by his side, her head angled towards him so she can whisper into his ear. "And that's done for another year. I shall celebrate by getting myself something to eat. Would you like to join me? The caterers promised an excellent spread." She pauses and then adds, "And then you can dance with me. Just once. I promise not to step on your toes." The applause rings in her ears the entire time and she can't help but to go a bit red about the cheeks and up across the bridge of her nose.

One could almost cut that tension with a knife. Spotting the canned-words smile, Lois snickers silently through her nose, lips twitching with want to smile more broadly. Politely, the reporter listens to Selina's speech, before tucking her clutch under an arm and applauding with the rest of the gathered. As J'onn addressed her, Lois turns back to him and his... date? Her smile remains pleasantly glossy.

"A pleasure to see you again, J'onn," Lois says with something almost bordering on genuine emotion. "As always. I see you managed to get your meeting with our mutual friend? Congratulations," she says to him before holding her hand out to Janet.

"Lois Lane, Daily Planet. Nice to meet you," Lois says to the DA. Because it's always good to be polite and friendly.

Gloved hands are lightly clapped together for their hostess before it dies down and Donna's attention turns to Kit, a warm smile on her lips. "I agree. I appreciate what the heroes do but people like Ms. Kyle deserve the same recognition. She speaks out for a part of the world that cannot speak for themselves." A small sip of her water is taken and then set aside as she looks down at the food for a moment before leaning over and murmuring something in Kit's ear, her nose wrinkled slightly.

Alan looks back to Sam who's once again in deep conversation then nods to Selina. "I would be pleased to, Miss Kyle. The hors d'oeuvres were wonderful but I could use something more substantial now."

Janet extends her hand to Lois, smiling peacefully. "Janet van Dorn. Gotham City." The smile broadens slightly. Don't ask about Batman. Don't ask about Batman. Damned reporters, she's sure they can read minds. "No comment," she adds, though it's obviously a joke. She glances back toward the door surreptitiously: where the heck is her date? She's feeling a mite stood up.

"Sure," says Kit, then picks up a small fork. "This is a snail fork," he tells her. "Hold the shell like this, use the snail fork to extract the meat with a slight pulling motion--and voilà." He holds up the fork with the snail meat on it. "Now dip it in the butter sauce on your plate, and..." He demonstrates and pops the morsel into his mouth, chewing quietly. "Nothing to it. A bit chewy, but that's a good thing.  The caterers here did it right; you can get a nice hint of some carlic and lemon."

Lois chuckles at the no comment, and is about to make a witty retort when her cell rings. She sighs faintly, hand reaching for her clutch. "Excuse me a moment," she says looking a triffled annoyed as she puts her phone to her ear and moves away saying, "Lane. ..Gotham. ... Charity event. ..I told Perry... Jesus, Cat. Relax! I'm not..." And she's out of ear shot.

There is a brief moment where Donna looks at Kit as if he has sprouted two extra heads, is talking gibberish and has a unibrow. "You're serious..." Despite her obvious, shall we say, reluctance to eat escargot she is paying close attention. And again, her nose wrinkles. "That..." She looks down at them and then back up at Kit. "I can't." Ew. EwEwEw!

Martian Manhunter smiles to Lois once more. "I..." And she's retreating, attached to her electronic leash. Drat. Nodding towards Janet, he murmurs, "Excuse me," and heads over to the buffet. He might as well indulge himself, although obviously the dessert isn't out yet. (Incidentally. Martians love chocolate).

Selina slides her arm through that of Alan, guiding him towards one of the tables where dinner has been set out. There's all the usual fare, up to and including prime rib and a fanastical chicken in a lemon sauce, fish and even several vegetarian dishes - and J'onn will be pleased to see that there's a table already set out with sweets galore. No need to wait to indulge. "Let's see if Janet would like to sit with us," she suggests with a smile. "I had the pleasure of having tea with her not too long ago and I'd love a chance to get caught up with her.

"Of course." Alan agrees. "I've never met her but I've heard nothing but good about how she's doign her job." Looking over the selection, he chooses a sampling of the vegetarian dishes and replaces his champagne with something stronger from the bar before taking a seat.

The reaction of his date makes Kit chuckle quietly. "I know, I know," he tells Donna, "it seems--disgusting at first. I know it does.  But give it a chance, an /honest/ chance.  I mean, I'm sure you have foods on Th--ah, in your home that some people here wouldn't touch without a radiation suit and a pair of tongs.  I know some of the foods I grew up with would be seen as--weird." Another grin, and he turns in his chair to face her more squarely.

Martian Manhunter fills his plate...and doesn't seem to be bothering with the usual divide between savories and desserts. Maybe Martians don't. Or maybe he just wants to absolutely make sure he gets one of the chocolate mousse shots. Hard to tell which. (It's a shame he's not close to the weird food conversation). Oh, and yes, he does take some of the escargot.

The quest for food is halted as Selina's off for a second, coming up to Janet who gets a fond smile. "I'd would like it very much if you'd join Alan Scott and myself at the table." She tilts her head to the side to indicate which table has been claimed by them. "We can talk over dinner and enjoy ourselves." Offer made, she goes to get something to eat, letting the DA decide whether she will come and sit beside them or not.

The band picks up the pace a bit, going into a fast-pace song which encourages some of the younger couples and even a few of the older to go out. It's obvious who has had experience with swing dancing before and who are just merely winging it but no matter what it's very easy to tell everyone is having fun.

Donna eyes Kit a moment before looks back at the snails and then up to Kit again. "You so owe me..." With that, she picks up on of the snails and goes through the process of extracting the meat just as shown. "Seriously, Kit..." And then the little morsel is gingerly taken in her mouth and given a few experimental chews before she finishes and swallows. Her mouth is dabbed lightly with a napkin before she takes a drink of the water, slowly, as if using the time to decide what she thinks.

When Selina invites her over, Janet is actually a little inclined to decline. Thanks, I'm all right, I don't need company... but, well, the socialite's always been very sweet to her. So she sighs and smiles, nodding her agreement: "I'd be glad to. Sure. You'll have to introduce me, I don't think I know Mr. Scott..."

Alan's waiting for the others to arrive before strting to eat but he does make some headway on the wine he got. Just then Samuel wanders over. He's in the middle of negotiations and would Alan mind terribly if he continued them over there while they eat. Alan doesn't, of course, and after a smile and kiss, Sam goes to seal the deal. And it seems he truly didn't mind since Alan just keeps smiling as he watches Sam walk away. He's done something similar, after all.

Martian Manhunter is not attempting to dance...and has nobody to dance with. Instead, he's found a table and is munching on various delicacies. Some of which might be more appealing to his palate than others. Unlike *some* people...he doesn't seem bothered by the snails.

'Late' is one person's 'Fashionably Late', which is also one person's 'Right on time'. Dressed up in his tuxedo and freshly shaven, he makes his way into the room, blending with Gotham's other elite. He snags a passing champagne flute before discreetly looking for what table he was seated out...or what food might be around. If Bruce Wayne isn't making an appearance, his ward should be the next best thing -- or even better, depending on one's views.

Selina waits for Janet before leading her to where Alan is, allowing for her to sit. She notices Jo'nn and waves to him, trying to invite him to join them as well by the gesture. "Alan Scott, this is Janet van Dorn, Gotham's champion for justice," she says with a flourish of a hand. "Janet, this is Alan, one of my oldest and most dearest friends." A glance to the side has her noticing Richard who is waved to as well. "Goodness. This is becoming quite the display of 'Who's Who in Gotham City', isn't it?"

Janet sets her plate down and offers her hand to Alan with a warm smile. She takes note of Sam and gives him a nod as well: //thank goodness, at least I don't have to put off anyone making a pass at me.// If anything, her smile to Alan warms as she sits and shakes her head. "Selina makes me sound like I'm something other than a public servant. I do my best. I just try to make sure the right people go to jail and stay there. I'm not Superman, believe me..." She glances up as Selina sees Richard, and for just a split second she sees dark hair and a dark suit and thinks //damn it, Bruce, how late can you be?// when... oh. Ah. Too short, not so freakishly broad-shouldered. The ward. Grayson, Richard. Good kid, as far as she's ever heard. She smiles and raises a hand to him.

"A pleasure to meet you, Miss van Dorn." Alan says as he takes the hand then flashes Selina a quick grin at the whole 'oldest and dearest' thing. "You may not be Superman but without regular people willing to do a tough, thankless job, all the supermen in the world will merely be tilting at windmills."

The snails are promptly ignored by Donna for now, her mind still not made up on what she thinks of them. Instead, another sip of her water is taken before her attention turns back to the food and something a little more familiar and 'normal' in taste and looks.

As he's noticed, Richard does the 'right thing' and makes his way over to first, thank the hostess, "Nice shindig you have here, Ms. Kyle. I was honored to receive an invitation." He then nods to the others before offering, "Ms. Van Dorn...we haven't officially met, but I've heard great things about you." He blinks upon seeing someone who is green..."Whoa." This calls for a long drink of his champagne.

That would probably not make Dick see *fewer* things. But the green guy does indeed seem to be quite real...and to be eating some chocolate from the dessert table with evident enjoyment. It's not oreos, but it *is* chocolate. Yeah. Seems to be real. J'onn finishes his plate and starts to stand up, glancing around the room again.

The snails are being winkled out of their shells by Janet, who has no fear of cephalopods. If you cook them in garlic and butter, they taste like garlic and butter. Can't beat that. "I appreciate the sentiment," she says, nodding to Alan with apparent sincerity. "It feels like two steps forward and one step back a lot, but I think we do some good. If Gotham is going to move forward and be taken seriously, we need a real system of law and order." She smiles at Richard and nods, murmuring: "The Martian Manhunter, he calls himself. New member of the Justice League. And if you've come to town without saying hello to Bruce, you should really stop in and check on him when he's less busy. He speaks very highly of you."

Janet's modesty gets Selina to chuckle slightly. "You're more than that," she is swift to point out, glancing to Alan at the same time. "Don't let her fool you, Alan. Our dear Janet is a superhero by her own right. Without her we'd be up the creek. And I know I don't have to mention the creek by name." Richard's given a warm smile after she gives her compliment, her hand offered to him. "Mister Grayson. It's been awhile, hasn't it? Goodness. I can't even begin to think... probably the last party I had?" Hard to say. Time tends to blur together.

"Oh, I'm sure." Alan agrees, nodding to Selina. "Being in law enforcement in Gotham is purely a labor of love and not for the faint of heart. Those who can manage it deserve high praise." Nodding a greeting to Richard, he extends a hand. "Alan Scott."

Richard Grayson pulls his eyes away from the green guy to look back at Janet, "And he's here? Really?" He makes a note of that before quickly downing the rest of his champagne and quickly grabbing another as a tray passes by.

Richard Grayson pulls his eyes away from the green guy to look back at Janet, "And he's here? Really?" He makes a note of that before quickly downing the rest of his champagne and quickly grabbing another as a tray passes by. As Bruce is mentioned, he grimaces some, "He knows I'm around. I get tired of trying to schedule face time into his social whirls and obligations." Maybe it's really meant to be a not-so-subtle dig at the fact that Bruce Wayne currently isn't here.

Selina's hand is taken briefly, "It probably has been that long, yes. You know how things are." She gets a bright smile before he shakes Alan's hand, "Richard Grayson. Good to meet you."

With a shake of his head, Kit chuckles quietly and turns back to his plate. "I'll get you to give it a shot sooner or later," he says, looking up as a member of the waitstaff passes. He snags a glass of champagne, taking a small sip before setting the glass on the table nearby.

Can you see her bristle? Yeah, you probably can. Janet actually goes very slightly red at the comment, but she forces lightness into her tone. "Apparently something came up," she says. "I'm just as bad, so I really have no room to complain. And sure. Talk to the guy. He seems a decent sort. Or sit down and have dinner; I think we still have a seat open."

Martian Manhunter moves to sit down close to Selina and Janet. "I hope you do not mind." A pause. "And Mr. Grayson, I believe." A few people, mostly latecomers, are still staring at him. It's really hard not to. Green. Very green.

Selina is just about to tuck into her dinner when J'onn joins them, it making her laugh as well as set her fork down. "The more the merrier, I always say. I do hope you've been having fun. It must seem rather..." Not sure where to go with that, she trails off, nose wrinkling. "I hope it is not boring."

Selina is just about to tuck into her dinner when J'onn joins them, it making her laugh as well as set her fork down. "The more the merrier, I always say. I do hope you've been having fun. It must seem rather..." Not sure where to go with that, she trails off, nose wrinkling. "I hope it is not boring."

Turning her attention to Richard now, she shakes her head, looking a bit put out at herself. "I do apologize for that. It is something we should try to correct. Perhaps over lunch or coffee sometime soon."

As J'onn talks to Janet and Selina, Alan takes the time to study the green alien a bit under cover of his eating. "The Martian Manhunter." he says after a moment. "That's more a title or a codename. And a bit lengthy. Is there a name you would like to go by? Is Manhunter enough by itself without being insulting?"

"Call me J'onn," the Manhunter says, simply, settling down into a chair with his plate. (Mostly empty, but not entirely). "And no, I am not bored. I enjoy watching people interact." Not a closet people-watcher, as he thoroughly admits it.

Richard Grayson watches the green guy as he approaches, already knowing his name. "You seem to know me, but this is the first time we've met," he puts on a charming smile, most likely learned from Bruce. The smile is then turned to Janet, "I make no excuses for his rudeness, but if you'd like, I'd be happy to try and make it up to you some time. Or...I don't know. Smack him around some for standing someone as lovely as yourself up." Selina's suggestion gets a raised brow, "Sure! I'm more than happy to meet for lunch or coffee. Wow, I'm sure glad I came to this shindig!" Ooh, food. "Excuse me a moment..." is said to the table before he goes to fill up his plate.

Janet shakes her head slightly and gives Richard a chuckle. "Very sweet of you," she says. "Just roundly tease him and your debt to society's paid. I see you learned your flattery from him." She winkles out another snail and takes a bite, nodding to J'onn and offering him another friendly smile. "How long have you been on Earth, if you don't mind my asking?" As if she meets aliens ALL THE TIME.

"J'onn, then." Alan agrees. "Nice to meet you J'onn. And congratulations on your membership in the Justice League of America." He naturally keeps up on all the news.

"I saw your picture," J'onn notes after the departing Richard, before responding to Janet. "Two years, but I elected to spend time learning to understand human culture before revealing myself. And thank you, Mr. Scott." He doesn't seem to mind being mildly questioned by the others. It's entirely understandable, after all.

Taking a nibble of this and that of the food she got for herself, Selina listens, giving Richard a nod and then her attention is back to the conversation as a whole. "The JLA. That must be exciting to be a part of. A chance to be all heroic and good..."

"And something we certainly need." Alan agrees. "The President had a fine idea and I'm happy - not to mention surprised - to see it take shape so quickly." Partisian politics being what it is.

Richard Grayson returns with a rather full plate and finds a seat in time to overhear Alan discussing the JLA. "So basically, you're the 'supersoldiers' that the Pentagon's been trying to figure out for...what, since World War II? I mean, you obey the government and you're all stronger, faster, and better than the rest of us, right?"

"I would not call us soldiers," J'onn says, simply. "I am not here to fight wars...only to stop more unfortunate incidents such as have happened recently. The truth is, too many people with powers are using them in ways that...well...are not good for society."

"That's... an interesting way of looking at it." Alan says to Richard. "There was no mention of trying to use them as a miltary force. They're just going to be a counter to the super powered villains that are operating against us like those that attacked the White House." Though basically repeating what J'onn said, it's also a quesion. Is there any indication they'll be used for more?

"You'll excuse me but I got a little more mingling to do," Selina says with a smile. She rises from the table, makes a promise to get in touch with Richard to make a lunch date soon, Alan gets promised a call so they can talk business while Janet and J'onn and the others get smiles. She is then gone, off to smooze and mingle and solicit donations from Gotham's big players.

While the others talk the music continues, lending a bit of magic to the atomosphere. Hopefully tonight will have been a night to remember.

"It's the Government though," Richard offers while he eats. "It always comes down to a military force...or a military use." He gestures with a fork at J'onn, "Like Mr. Manhunter just said...they're here to fight against things that recently happened. Isn't that a military action? If they weren't around, wouldn't the Armed Forces have been brought in?"

"It is not legal to use military force on United States soil." J'onn might not be American, but he knows. "And to be frank...the police could not handle the situation, and not because they are poorly trained or incompetent." Although it's true that the DC cops are only *really* good at crowd control and breaking up riots.

FTB