| New Year's Fire | |||||
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| What: The Hellfire Club's New Year celebration, and it's a chilly one. | |||||
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The Hellfire club tonight was a little bit...cold this evening. The White Queen, Emma Frost has taken over. Normally it's Sebastian Shaw running these shindigs, but tonight it's in her capable hands, and it certainly looks that way.
Dashwood hall has been made up to look like a dark winter wonderland. There is stunning event lighting along the roof, resembling the arctic lights. The dancers, waiters, and waitresses are all adorning various shades of blue powdered wigs each wearing different kinds of blue and silver designer latex clothing.
The party this evening is all in the name for the "Adopt a Penguin" foundation for the WWF, and a representative in the center near a penguin ice sculpture display is taking donations.
In the middle of it all is the White Queen herself, fully adorned in her traditional Hellfire attire. She wears a long, heavy satin cape with fur shoulders, matching panties and thigh high boots, and with one new addition; a magical leather corset which contorts beyond what seems possible.
Dashwood hall has been made up to look like a dark winter wonderland. There is stunning event lighting along the roof, resembling the arctic lights. The dancers, waiters, and waitresses are all adorning various shades of blue powdered wigs each wearing different kinds of blue and silver designer latex clothing.
The party this evening is all in the name for the "Adopt a Penguin" foundation for the WWF, and a representative in the center near a penguin ice sculpture display is taking donations.
In the middle of it all is the White Queen herself, fully adorned in her traditional Hellfire attire. She wears a long, heavy satin cape with fur shoulders, matching panties and thigh high boots, and with one new addition; a magical leather corset which contorts beyond what seems possible.'
The theme being what it is, Warren Worthington III has chosen to wear a white Dinner jacket with the rest of his tuxedo. His date, one of those young, gorgeous, aspiring model/actreee-types that come to the city with dreams of stardom, is wearing silver, the sparkling gown practically painted on.
The theme being what it is, Warren Worthington III has chosen to wear a white Dinner jacket with the rest of his tuxedo. His date, one of those young, gorgeous, aspiring model/actreee-types that come to the city with dreams of stardom, is wearing silver, the sparkling gown practically painted on. Her dark hair is done-up in an up-do that is meant to look elegant yet effortless and she seems more than happy to be seen in this most elite of places as arm candy.
First things first, Worthington moves to the representative to hand over a sealed envelope before he fetches drinks for himself and his date.
Leopold Luthor otherwise known as 'Leo' showed up early with his date Fern Fiddlehead. The fact she agreed to come surprised him! He knew of her discomfort over the Hellfire Club, butmaybe he means that much to her, the jury seems always out about that. For Leo, it's like waiting for the next thing in his life to explode in his face. Alas! Whining later! Right now, responsibility! And that is what brings the young White Prince here to support his White Queen in place of his absent Father, the White King. Lots of White involved, including in clothes.
Though rather than wear his usual White Prince attire that usually marks Leo's elite status within the club, he decided to mix casual with stylish and completely throw the rules on their head. He wears a white button-up shirt, simple enough though it has a mandarin collar that he leaves open with the top button also undone to reveal a hint of some sort of silvery jewelry at his collar bone. It fits snug on him, with tight sleeves. (http://image.dhgate.com/albu_300710852_00/1.0x0.jpg) On his right wrist is a belt buckle wrap black leather bracelet with a silver skull lock to hold it in place (http://www.artfire.com/uploads/product/7/347/29347/6929347/6929347/large/mens_belt_buckle_wrap_bracelet_mens_jewelry_mens_belt_buckle_bracelet_ae482ccc.jpg). He dares to wear blue jeans with a thick silver chain hanging between wallet in his back pocket and front belt loop. On his feet is none other than Gucci black leather motorcycle boots that reach almost to his knees (http://www.luxist.com/tag/gucci溊ⶳ). And yes, Emma Frost lets him get away with it. Luckily, his date has more reasonable tastes for the Hellfire Club, or so the other members will likely think.
Leo already got his donation out of the way while they were setting up, in the name of the Luthors so he can concentrate mostly on not getting in the way and pretending to be emotionally supporting, cause in reality, he is clueless about parties and just lets Emma be her amazing self. He mostly hides with Fern, often holding her hand to keep her close. "Hate parties," he grumbles mostly beneath his breath, as he makes a point to remember to smile and just be happy he has his emotional support here, though he does remember to whisper a, "Thanks," to Fern.
Shinobi arrives alone, uncharacteristic for him. Shinobi is seldom seen with out his assistant and gang of yakuza bodyguards but he decided to enter this party alone.
Shinobi walks in with a confidence like he owns the place. Shinobi grabs a drink and looks around for interesting people to mingle with.
While he may not be one of the rich elite, he is a diplomat from an alien civilization who has technological knowledge that the rich elite want for their own benefit. So obviously he's likely had a few CEO invites from people trying to butter him up to loosen his lips a bit. But Noh-Varr has shrugged most of them off and head right for the White Queen herself, wearing a sharp black Italian suit with Italian leather shoes, hair slicked back as usual. If not for the white hair and green eyes, he'd appear to be a perfectly normal human.
"Emma Frost, I received a number of invites from people who apparently knew how to find my space ship. What is this thing?" he asks, looking mildly confused. The suit probably came with one of the offers. And this is the first time he's been seen in shoes other than his Kree uniform. If he's wearing his gauntlets or not has yet to be seen, as his sleeves are quite concealing. "Oh, and I am dating Phoebe now. I am unsure if there is any ethical issue, given my status at the school. but I am twenty-one, so I see no issue. I also am aware of your relation to the Cuckoos now."
Okay. So. She totally read Dante's Inferno. It was pretty interesting. But when rumor gets out about some Hellfire Club doodad, Lunair decides to indulge curiousity. Especially when it doesn't involve a rampaging murder spree. Everyone likes days off! Lunair is wealthy, but a comparative social unknown. That suits her, because on entering she's wearing a uniform of the food catering. And indeed, early on she's helping politely. Her messenger bag is set safely in a corner as she politely works with the others. Pay no attention to the Froot Loop in the corner. She's just waiting for a moment.
If there was one thing Fern never expected to be doing, it would be showing up early to a Hellfire Club party to be of whatever help possible in the preparations. While he still hasn't gotten it through his own head, Fern is indeed there because of Leo; while it's elegant and opulent, it's not quite a club that Fern would frequent on her own. Or... ever.
Thankfully, having been to at least one other Hellfire Club shindig, Emma's risque outfit was no surprise to the little redhead, and she's even gone with her own version of risque for the evening. Her long dress is a royal blue, a deep neckline and strategically placed cut-outs in the dress baring skin, but still being covered by sheer black fabric. It gives a flash of skin here and there, partially obscured by strategically placed black lace.
Fidgeting slightly in her black heels, she gives Leo's hand a gentle squeeze. "It's going to be fun, you'll see," she reassures him quietly, although she has her own reservations that she is putting aside in the interest of his position. She gives him a light tug, and when he leans, she whispers something in his ear. There's a smug smile on her face as her attention turns away and drifts to pick out familiar faces in the crowd, and many that are unfamiliar.
Dr. Karla Sofen is announced nearly promptly on time with the invitation, she makes no effort at being late or making one of those grand entrances. Someone has to be on time, someone has to standard, that way others can enjoy exceeding it. And that someone that makes the comfortable entrance is free to take everything in, free to pick and choose when to make herself seen, Karla knows when to do subtle and when to be bold. She makes her way in a reasonable crossing of the room, dropping off an envelope for the donation.
Then Sofen is on her way to make the nice-nice with the White Queen, taking a place in what ever order is required before greeting the hostess, "Exquisite tastes as always, Emma." Karla states in her silky toned voice, with a once over of her majesty as it were, and a head dip. A nod to the nearby Noh-Varr, but Karla does not linger near the Kree. The blonde drifts back a little, slowly and in no rush making her casual path around the parameter to take up glass of champagne and watching the show and pageantry.
Lily is wearing a dress that falls above the knee, a snug number in an iridescent shade of ice blue. It's transparent, for the most part, but lace patterned to look like frost flowers covers the more inappropriate parts of her anatomy. On her feet is a pair of heeled shoes in a darker shade of blue, and her hair - almost that same blue shade - is in a long pixie-cut style.
And despite the girl not actually connected to the Hellfire Club at all, she managed to get in /somehow/. Perhaps because of the sneaky nature of her arrival, she's keeping mostly to herself, taking in the atmosphere and gradually gravitating towards that penguin statue. The representative taking donations won't notice her, so she takes her time admiring the artwork for now, after snatching a champagne flute from a passing waitress.
Emma Frost's date however, had not arrived to share in the festivities as of yet. Perhaps he forgot, more likely he just wanted to make a dramatic entrance. Thus he was actually one of the last to arrive to this little party. But when he walked through the doors more than a few of the party goers around him could recognize who he was and made a big deal of it, whispering and muttering.
He was dressed like the royalty of Atlantis that he was. On his left shoulder he wears a golden pauldron decorated with symbols of Atlantean origin. Across his chest is a series of leather-like straps dyed various shades of green and blue, the ones holding it up lie over his right shoulder and are a deep black. Both arms are decorated metal armbands made of gold and intricate coral bracers that look positively ancient.
Around his waist a belt made of golad with a clasp of white coral shaped like a seashell. It hold up the green silk-like scale mail skirt. A black sash is worn just below the belt.
His muscular abs, legs and arms were on full display however and the moisture on his skin glistened in the light. The only thing that seemed off about his at all were the wings on his ankles, one set of them was larger than the other, the smaller wings also looked as if the skin around them were irritated
He approached the host and his date for the evening, Emma Frost the White Queen. He gave Noh-Varr a small glance and then another to the lovely Dr. Sofen before turning to Emma and smiling, "You look more lovely than words can express, Emma."
He took the White Queen's hand and kissed it, "And I have to admit, this part looks more interesting than I would expect from a surface dweller affair."
Shinobi gets a devious smirk on his face when he catches sight of Leo and his pretty redheaded companion. "well this is interesting"
Shinobi takes a big gulp of his drink puts the glass on the table and almost glides towards them. "Hello Leo, who is this lovely lady you have on your arm" Shinobi takes Fern's hand and gives a little bow.
Emma leaned forward to Noh-Varr to kiss him on both cheeks in her oh-so-European greeting for friends, "I'm delighted that you've come, I had heard that you received several invitations. Please enjoy yourself and try not to break anything.
In his mind he hears her voice, |"You really have no sense in timing, do you? We'll discuss this more later. But there will be /rules/ you do understand."|
And to Karla she greets her in the same fashion, but notes her intentional distance from Noh-Varr, "Darling. I'm pleased you like it. I wanted to shake things up a little with this Hellfire party, what with Sebastian normally running the show."
Emma's eyes lit up when Namor entered the room, he certainly knew how to make his presence noticed. She honestly expected him to wear the normal speedos. This was a pleasant surprise, and a compliment. She smiled warmly at him, "And I didn't know you could look any more dashing, I learn something new every day. Thankfully Hellfire club parties are not your typical 'surface dweller' affairs, at least not mine."
"You appear to be showing more skin than is usual for a typical male American human in an upper class setting... however you have non-human features that I do not necessarily recognize. I am Noh-Varr of the 18th Kree Diplomatic Gestalt, from another dimension. I am also a teacher at the Academy of Tomorrow." Noh-Varr offers a hand to Namor, and one brief nod.
He shakes his head and just shrugs slightly at Emma. |"The Cuckoos have all given me lots of rules. I am perfectly fine with more. The Kree thrive with rules and structure."|
Leo is of course standing near Emma to be supportive when Fern comes back. He blinks at Noh-Varr's words and makes a bit of a choking sound as he contains his laughter. Yep...he has ammmmmooooo! Now how to use it to his utter delight! Though Fern quickly distracts him with a whisper and his eyes unfocus a moment, "Wha...," yes, he just pulled a total guy response, looks over a Fern, glances her up and down and looks...a bit unsure if he should scold her, praise her, or escort her out...but responsibilities win out and he leans toward her to kiss the corner of her mouth and whisper something back into her ear.
And while he is looking away, Emma gets social banged...note, the social part, nothing indecent involved! Unless you include the dresses involved, and Noh-Varr's comment. Leo glances back up and grins when he sees Namor, "Namor," sharing his greeting and unable to hide the pleasure at seeing his friend. He shifts from where he was previously (moody teenager until Fern distracted him with, OMG moment!!!), into a youthful, but pleased expression. The two are standing a little behind and off to the side from Emma.
Still, there is Shinobi to distract him again, a protective arm going about Fern's waist to hold her easily at his side. Leo opens his mouth, closes it, opens it again...fails, then finally asks, "What name are you going by now?" He isn't sure what name to use in the introduction!!! So Leo just looks mildly confused...to his knowledge that he is a Shaw isn't a secret anymore, but he isn't sure how to approach the matter. "Anyway, Fern Fiddlehead, this is a playboy. Playboy, this is my 'non-classified individual' at my side," totally making a joke off the old 'significate other' comment he made at the Cuckoos party, which Fern would likely pick up immediately. Yes, he's teasing Fern and Shinobi all in the same introduction in different ways.
Work, work. Lunair is not that kind of orc. Or an orc, really. Once the work load subsides a bit and the caterers either filter out or stand around bored, she sneaks with her messenger bag into a bathroom. But she walks and acts like she belongs, as best as a slightly - um, well. As best as /she/ can. Time for changing! And not in the spin around 10 minutes to j-pop transformation way. Kinda boring, really.
Warren Worthington and his arm candy work the room, mingling with some, the arm candy introduced to those few members that Warren is familiar with. Drinks are constantly in hand as the mutant moves carefully through the well-dressed group. As the hostess is currently surrounded, he will have to greet her a little later in the evening. Every few minutes, Arm Candy leans in to murmur something in his ear, eliciting either a shake of his head, a nod, or, on occasion, an actual laugh.
Shaw chuckles at Leo's treatment of him "I'm Shinobi shaw, pleased to meet you Fern, he is only calling me a playboy because we we first meet Leo picked me up at a bar, and we went back to my place" Shinobi gives Leo a smirk and a wink.
The reaction was as good as she expected, and the smirk on Fern's face evens out to her typical pleasant smile as Leo greets Namor and she looks at the Atlantean a moment. She remembers him very well from their only 'meeting', although it's unlikely she herself stood out in the crowd quite the way he did. But, first impressions can be changed, she firmly believes, and her smile lingers on him a moment before shifting to a new arrival.
She doesn't protest her hand being taken, even at Leo's unusual introduction, elbowing the Luthor lightly as her smile broadens. Blue eyes remain on Shinobi, always polite, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Shinobi." She uses his first name easily, and doesn't look phased by his tale of his first meeting with Leo. She seems comfortable in the circle of Leo's arm, smoothing her dress when her hand is released, an absent, needless gesture.
Namor eyed Noh-Varr for a moment before taking his hand and saying, "I thank you for recognizing that I am not like the typical surface dweller, that is because I am not. I am Namor, Avenging Son of Atlantis. Son of Fen and Crown Prince of the Atlantis Council of Kings. I'm also the paramour of Emma Frost, though that is a more recent development."
He turned a bit and nodded to Leo, "Leo, you're looking well. I take it the lovely lady with you is this 'Fern' I've heard so much about."
He bowed graciously and fully and said, "It is a pleasure to be able to meet you at last then, m'lady. I am Namor of Atlantis."
A look at Shinobi and a frown, he didn't like the way this man seemed to be treating Leo and his woman. He did hope he didn't have to create a scene at the party that Emma had worked so hard to create.
Namor holds Karla's attention, as he manages to claim a good bit of the room's focus. Karla certainly cannot complain about the focal point. She makes no effort to cover the running of her blue-eyes over the aquatic ruler. A few sips of her drink, letting the bubbles tease and if the Atlantian should look her way again he is greeted with a subtle glass raise and nod.
There are other men to be noted and smiled at by the psychiatrist, so she lets her gaze wonder, fixing briefly to read the gestures and mannerism of the exchanges between Leo and Shinobi, a once over even of Leo's companion. Then a check on Warren's arm bobble, finding him linked though, it is more champagne to drink. The night is young, and patience often has rewards.
To look on Emma's face you wouldn't guess that she was currently having a separate discussion with Noh-Varr privately, |"I'll be speaking to them as well, but they must always call you Mr. Noh-Varr on campus, no PDA on the school grounds. And beyond that, be careful. I know personally how...difficult these teacher/student liaisons can become. Also, break her heart and you might discover how protective I am. Cheers love."|
And with that she was out of his mind and quickly scanning across the surroundings, there were a few additional people she would love to speak with before the night was out. She smirked at Shinobi meeting with the other new couple, this could be interesting.
She then links her arm around Namor's arm and perhaps a very faint blush? Surely it's the makeup, "You know, Fern, Leo does go on quite a bit about you. You certainly know how to wrap a man around your finger. If only you were a student so I could claim I taught you this."
"Atlantis, I have not heard of this planet. Is it perhaps the name of a moon within the Sol system, or perhaps it is in a different solar system entirely?" Noh-Varr asks, brows raised in curiosity, tone and expression very casual. |"It will be perfectly fine. While studying human relations, I watched a film on the topic of dangerous liaisons. I will avoid such situations."|
He nods over at Karla, though it could very well be a silent greeting. Except his mental discussion with the White Queen continues. |"That woman has Kree technology inside of her. I have taken her as my responsibility to make sure that she uses it for good. If he slips up I will remove it from her body, which will kill her."|
A blink, another blink from Leo, "Shinobi, sometimes I don't know if I should punch you through a wall, or just sigh." But he gets elbowed and remembers to give just a little as he smiles warmly at Fern. "What?" Giving her a fake innocent look that he isn't good at, at all. Though Namor is calling him. Leo's head whips about instictively when his name is spoken by the man, and he has the grace to look a bit sheepish. "Ummm...ya." Geez, tattled about talking about a GIRL, in front of said GIRL...alright, teenager moment, but he clears his throat.
"Namor, this is my paramour," adopting Namor's speech style with actual ease, "Fern Fiddlehead. Fern, this is my best friend, Namor with lots of amazing titles that flows off his tongue much better than mine." And he resists pointing to Noh-Varr and saying, 'And honey, that there is an alien. Don't touch, he might be contagious. He has already talked about conqueroring the world and rebuilding it in the Kree image. Prime supervillain material.' Well, least Shinobi gets a better reaction than the alien does from Leo, right? Poor Noh-Varr. Though Emma may pick up on his internal thoughts unless she's being very careful.
"And that is embarassing comment number two," Namor having the first. "Thanks Emma, just...thanks." Yes, Leo is rolling his eyes now. But then to Fern he says, "Told you I didn't forget you." But that is when Leo notices Warren, frowning slightly. Stupid jealousy spike! No..no...no randomly punching ex-boyfriend of Fern's just for raw satisifaction...bad idea, bad...bad Leo...! Luckily, his arm is about Fern's waist and innocent Warren is unmolested by jealous teenage (imagine those headlines!).
Fern looks to Namor when addressed, inclining her head with a return greeting, "It's an honor, sir. Leo speaks very highly of you, and often." Emma's words get a soft laugh, a fond look toward Leo and then back to the White Queen. "If that's so, then it's completely mutual and I'm wrapped around his as well. But, if you have any tips..." she grins, wrinkling her nose good naturedly. Her eyes shift and she also notes unmistakable white wings among the crowd. She half turns, snagging a glass of champagne from a passing server's tray, taking a sip before offering to share it with Leo.
"Oh Hello there Emma barely noticed you. you look nice as always." Shinobi says his gaze still on Fern. "Take good care of Leo he is shy and timid boy. Easily flustered" shinobi says looking at Leo before his eyes float over and he is torn between the every hunky submariner and Karla tall gorgeous blond rivaling ms Frost but with a distinctly natural flair to her.
Shinobi steps up to Namor "Shinobi Shaw, pleasure to meet you" Shinobi says extending a hand towards him and looking him over.
Namor laughs at Noh-Varr's response, "It is not a planet, nor is it the moon. The surface dwellers call it Luna. Atlantis is the kingdom of this planets oceans. It has existed for six thousand years in an uninterrupted lineage of ten kings. I am part of said lineage but have decided that I can serve my people better as a warrior than a King."
No back to Leo, Fern and Shinobi. If Namor wasn't royalty and used to the craziness of these functions he would be lost. He smiles when Leo calls him his best friend but then gives Fern a second glance and thinks for a moment, "Oh dear. We've met before haven't we. I never forget the face of a beautiful woman." Namor actually looked a tad bit embarrassed for a moment, "You were there when I first remembered. When I raged."
Namor looked at Shinobi for a moment and didn't shake it. He didn't care for the way that Shinobi had been blurting out personal details a moment ago in an attempt to embarrass Leo. All he did is smirk slightly and say, "Charmed I'm sure."
In his mingling, Warren does also note a familiar redhead over by the White Queen. There's a moment as he looks over at that crowd before he takes a casual sip of the drink in his hand and leans over to whisper into Arm Candy's ear. She, in turn, whispers back and he can't help but toss his head back in a laugh. Even his wings seem to fluff slightly in amusement.
To Noh-Varr's tip her eyes glanced to Karla, who was making her way across the room, she thinks with a tone of humor in her voice |"Does she? Well don't kill her here, or get any blood on my outfit. I'd love to hear more sometime."|
Emma reached out to mess up Leo's perfectly styled hair, she sensed his overwhelming jealousy about to take over and wished to distract once more, "I tease you because I adore you, darling. You know this."
She lifted her chin very slightly, the way she always does when cross at Shinobi's comment, taking note of his perv eyes on Fern, "Yes quite. Do remember the dancers are available for a more private dance, should you feel the need. I'm sure the Tokyo branch have the same hospitality, as I recall."
Her fingers tightened just lightly on Namor's bicep as she spoke telepathically directly towards him, |"Keep an eye on this one. He is...a current problem."|
Just then a waiter came by with varying drinks based off of what Emma could take from everyone's minds as their favorite. For Emma, she received a glass of white wine.
Ah, telpathy, how Karla envies it, but the conversations going around unheard are certainly not something she is privvy to. Noh-Varr receives little more than a nod in return and a polite smile. She is not the wall flower type though, and Sofen is not prone to waiting for things too long, patience is a virtue, sloth is not. A fresh glass of champagne and she makes her way to a more convinient location to the players now that she has gotten a better feel for the game, at least the one her senses can follow.
"If the Kree were still ruled by someone with a humanoid body, we would probably not have a king who was -not- a warrior and the most intelligent all in one. I believe your decision is the decision of a proper leader. A leader must act and break the bones of their civilization's enemies. Not only when their people are not capable, but especially when they -are- capable." Noh-Varr doesn't appear to be all that overwhelmed, likely due to having been to a few of these parties already. He's at least learned not to wear a top hat and monocle. "Though I was not aware of an underwater civilization. So humans are not necessarily the dominant species of this planet, considering that the ocean covers far more of this planet than land masses..."
Shinobi's words to her bring an amused quirk to Fern's lips and she nods her agreement. "I will do my best." In both taking care of Leo and flustering him, no doubt. In a typically Fern rapid change, surprise shows for a moment when Namor remembers their previous experience as well, and she's quick to offer him a more gentle smile. "Don't give it a thought. I've met a man called Kaydin, he explained some things to me." She doesn't pursue the matter, doesn't make him delve any more deeply into it, understanding enough to let it go, trusting in Leo's friendship with the man to smooth over any doubts she may still have harbored. She lets Noh-Varr turn the talk toward Atlantis, her interest lingering, as she's only heard a little about the lost civilization.
"oh is shaking hands not an aceptable greeting where you are from, sir?" Shinobi says to Namor. Shinobi considers making a quip at Emma over her comment but decides to continue with his tack of barely noticing her. Shinobi deems emma no longer worth too much of his effort an attention. Once you reject him or are rejected by him you stop existing less you make yourself an problem.
"Would you like a drink" Shinobi goes straight to work on flirting with Namor a bit more manly than the guys that he normally goes for but that makes him all the more alluring.
Phew. After changing, Lunair walks out of the bathroom, messenger bag over her shoulder. Act casual! Unfortunately, she's socially disabled in her way and that is going to be a hamper for a good part of her life. Much like an actual hamper. With laundry. Her dress is a bit odd, something in more a Victorian or gothic lolita style (She is a maimed veteran of the Frill War 2014), but elegant and powerful in its own right. She's not one for much skin showing, but neither does she comment on others. She probably lacks any sort of judgment or frame on it. Quirky, that. Either way, it's time to make war.
On the refreshments table! A metaphorical war. And she seems to listen more than anything else.
Lily just happens to be heading to that selfsame refreshment table, gliding along casually through the crowd on her way there. She doesn't fit in all that much better than Lunair, at least not through her attitude; she's dressed well enough, but the sight of such fancy /food/ leaves an obvious impression on the girl. "Oh, wow, look at this spread," she remarks, just loud enough that Lunair is probably the only person who can hear her, but she still blushes once she realizes that she said it out loud. She looks to Lunair with a bit of a sheepish grin and, as she snatches up a particularly tasty looking morsel, remarks, "No offense, but you look almost as out-of-place as I feel."
Namor said to Noh-Varr, "There are eight species of aquatic, sentient, humanoid life on this planet, The Atlanteans, Lemurians, Poseidonians, Tritonains, Idylists, Merman, the Black, the Blue. They have existed on this planet for nearly 10,000 years. Our technology is more advanced, our culture more civilized and our people more accepting. The surface doesn't like to talk about us. We make them uncomfortable. They prefer to think of the Kingdoms of Atlantis to be myths and legends. Despite me being a hero of their World War II and a member of their All Winner's Squad for a decade before returning to my home."
With a small bow to Fern again he said, "Aye, I know Kaydin. A good man even if he did break the laws of my people. But regardless, I apologize for my behavior on that day, and the days after it. I had been without memory for forty years and had become unstable. Now a days I am much more level headed. But as I'm sure Leo will tell you, I am a bit of an arrogant Prince at times."
Now to Shinobi, "I do not shake hands with men who try to embarrass those they claim as friends in front of others. If you want my respect, earn it. Until then, don't expect me to treat you any better than I would treat any other surface dweller who acted so tastelessly," He scowled briefly at the young Asian man. He heard Emma's broadcasted thoughts but did not comment on them. He would remind Emma that he disliked telepathic contact without permission later though, "And no. I do not drink alcohol. So I don't require your services."
Leo blinks at the champagne and actually wrinkles his nose at it. Not at sharing a drink with Fern, that doesn't bother him in the least, he kisses her for goodness sake! But it's more the fact it's...ugh...champagne. "Girls have the weirdest taste in drinks," when it comes to champagne. But then Emma is ruffling his perfectly wind tossed hair! He sighs. "Emma...I think hair tossling ranks up there with ice cream, well, unless you get the staff to fetch me a whiskey, then I'll let you do it again." Emma is so much more effectively in summoning staff with drinks for obvious reasons (well, for those that know she is a telepath).
At least Leo has settled down and relaxed more, he has become more casual than the stiff person he was being earlier during set-up. Still, when Fern responds like that, Leo just gives her a 'look'. Definitely good at flustering him, he isn't about to open his mouth on that one! He knows better to keep it shut. Leo mostly ignores poor Noh-Varr, mostly so he doesn't go all anti-alien. Sometimes at times like this, he really misses his Father. His Father has a way with 'words'.
"Shinobi, shush," is Leo's response. He, he could rant at the man, but he doesn't. He is about to say something else, but then gets distracted when he finally notices a little maid or something going by and he's like, "Huh? Fern, this way," and he soon captures her hand and OFF THEY GO! Yep, Leo is chasing after Lunair. Oddest behavior EVAR!
Shinobi's obnoxious display of ignoring her was of course, noted. Once more one of Sebastian's problems was left to her to deal with, and clearly Namor wasn't a fan either. How fun. Seemingly half of her glass was downed as she turned away from the small group gathering momentarily.
When she faced back with everyone else she was all smiles, "Thankfully darling you never make /me/ uncomfortable. Quite the opposite, in fact."
She leaned in to kiss him softly on his well-defined cheek, "Mingling a bit darling, I'll be back."
She broke away from the small group gathering to speak momentarily to the foundation representative and then to go speak to anyone else at the party that she hadn't yet spoken to.
"you assume a lot for someone who doesn't know me." Shinobi, says with tone shifting instantly from flirtatious to something firmer but calm. "why do you assume that I was being untoward? hhmm He introduces me to his lady friend as Playboy? that isn't untoward I have never once reffered to myself nor answered to that name or description. So I gave an anecdotal explanation. And you take offense why?" Shinobi rolls his eyes at Namor and steps past him "And I don't like one bit the tone with which you say surface dweller. You like to talk down to us but you seem eager as anyone to procreate with a surface dweller. so decided do you hate us or want to fuck us?"
"So many species on a still primitive planet. It seems inevitable that one of the species will eventually conquer the other. I have seen it happen countless times. Rarely do multiple intelligent species evolve together in harmony for long. But then, I have never seen a planet with so many super humans, so Earth has a tendency to be strange and unpredictable." Noh-Varr observes, crossing his arms as he watches Namor in consideration for a long moment. "I would be interested in visiting your civilization, particularly if you are more advanced than the human race. There is much that I cannot do, and much that I need to do. Perhaps we can help each other in some way."
Fern wasn't about to encourage any of Leo's anti-alien sentiment, having come into the acquaintance of at least one alien, at least she thinks he is, anyway. But... they're just people too, to her, anyway. The sudden shift in the Luthor's attention, and his movement to head away from the group they were with gets a curious look from her, but she follows along easily as he leads. Although there is something of a worried glance cast backwards as some of the words being exchanged reach her ears. Well, she didn't really expect a quiet evening. She's nearly emptied the champagne flute on her own, and manages somehow to exchange it for a full one as she trails after Leo.
Lunair smiles politely at Lily and nods. It takes her a moment to emote, but she does. There's a pause. Her head tilts a little. "Um. That's alright." She's not sure what to make of it. She's kind of baffled, really. "It - is quite a spread," She offers. She looks around, considering who all is - uh oh. Well, there's a fellow with wings, some fellow and then - incoming Leo.
She seems surprised, although she seems to avoid any champagne for now. Odd, that. Like a deer in the headlights at an AA meeting. Sorta. Deer metaphors are hard.
As Emma made her way about she made a stop to the dancers on the stage and shared with them a laugh, and with one of them a dance. Apparently Emma is a little too comfortable around a pole.
With laughter still on her face she makes her way back down into the crowd and catches Warren with his date, and Karla. She kisses Warren on both of his cheeks, a smile to the date and another to Karla, since she was briefly greeted earlier, "Darlings, I hope you are enjoying yourselves. While we are here for the penguins, it's all about having a good time. It is why I cherish the club, we all work hard for a living and party even harder."
Tilting her head a little curiously as Lunair responds, Lily just kind of... slowly nods. "Yeah." She actually looks a little /concerned/, even frowning a bit with some consternation. She doesn't notice Leo's approach at first, at least not until Lunair looks towards the man, at which point her own attention is drawn that way as well. Head still tilted just slightly, she gives a bit of an eyebrow raise, then pops her hors d'oeuvre into her mouth, chewing and swallowing it like she's on a /mission/. Which is, apparently, to take a step closer to Lunair and look the younger girl over. "Is everything okay?"
Warren Worthington seems somewhat surprised at Emma's greeting, but he returns it and introduces his date, miraculously remembering her first name. Don't ask him her last. "It's a lovely party...although I am a little surprised at the number of 'kids' around." He is obviously in his 'I need to be a snooty society brat' mode, it would seem. "The pole dancers are a nice touch. Very retro. I vote for Playboy Bunnies next party though."
Namor raised an eyebrow at Shinobi, "I speak down to you because I am royalty, a decorated war hero, and a far better man that you seem to be. Your pathetic attempts at insulting me only prove it more so."
At that Namor had no more he felt needed to be said to the man called Shinobi Shaw and instead turned his attentions back to Noh-Varr, "I have found that to be my experience as well, Noh-Varr. I was drawn into the surface conflict called World War II because one of their nations decided to attack us for our technology. The Atlantean people are physically stronger and more durable than the Dry, but only a few of the species among us are capable of breathing air. The Atlantean's especially, my race, can not and require rebreathers or other such means to exist here."
To Noh-Varr's request Namor balks a bit, "I... am currently thought of as being dead by my people. I disappeared from them forty years ago saving our civilization from an enormous threat. Since I have regained my memory I have chosen to let them have me as a hero to be remembered and act from the shadows. But I will speak to my cousin Namora, she may be able to arrange something."
He did however get a nice look at Emma as she decided to briefly join the exotic dancers on stage and with a smirk said, "She is definitely nimble."
Leo soon halts before Lily in that beautiful ice blue dress, a similar design to Fern's...the...cover just enough to start the imagination instictively. Leo actually manages to get out, "Pardon me." Before adding, "And nice dress by the way," to Lily, before he points to Lunair while his other hand still holding Fern's. "You." The tone a bit firm. "Your skirt is longer than all the others. You totally just crashed this party, didn't you Lunair?" And then Leo grins widely, "That's awesome! Wait...," his smile fades and he glances about warily, "You are alone right, your crazy ass taco partner isn't here, right?" He means Deadpool, afraid to say the name least it bring DOOOOOM on his head! And he then adds, "Oh, and you have too much lace on the outfit compared to the others, so your disguise is off that way too," he also advises Lunair. "You and lace, and yes, it still looks nice on you." And he totally isn't yelling at Lunair for crashing the party either! Rather...he talks to her as if they are friends.
Karla let's Emma carry her attention for a little bit, learning in subtle fashion from the White Queen and as much learning of her. The woman is regal, and such a nice dresser! Karla offers a little glass raise and a smile returned in acknowledgement. There is little to do but watch for now, the eyes pass over a few other candidates from the lower rings, but Sofen is would rather just have a drink or two for now.
Things get a little interesting when Shaw manages to rile most of the VIPs, and Karla shifts, exhaling a little. If she were in the rescue business she might step in, and.. Oh wait, she IS in the rescue business now. Besides, she descides, planting a smile on her face, this is almost a mercenary rescue. A cocktail, well, it is New York, so she retreives a a Long Island Iced Tea for her left hand and approaches Shaw, nodding to Luthor and unknown date type person. She will have to be sure to find out who the woman is in the future. One billionaire at a time though, they are far too high maintaince. "Here you are, Mr. Shaw." The words accompanied by a certain warm glow, that nice light, that just seems to hit her so well it could almost be thought to originate from within. "How are your interests going, Sir? Would you care to enlighten me on the dance floor? After you finish your drink." Then the charm is turned to Shaw's other companions, "If you will excuse us, Highness, Ambassador.. I hate to steal him away if you gentleman have important business." She even manages a "Lovely dress." Comment to the woman trailing Luthor.
Lunair is totally on Warren's lawn. Gonna take some serious cane shakin'! Lunair pauses and blinks at the question. "I am fine, yes. How are you?" She just seems odd.
And can you hear that WHOOSH sound? It sounds an awful lot like a roof flying off a building and the subsequent gaping of mouths? Yes, that's the sound of Lunair's cover being blown into the next count as Leo talks. Fortunately, Lunair is more startled than anything else. She just kind of blankly stares. Is that a flash back stare or a processing response.exe stare? It's hard to say. One perk of being completely socially wonked. You get to be subtle.
UNfortunately, she still has completely blown cover. And a Leo Luthor and his date riiiiiiiight there. "... if you don't notice Deadpool around, you should see an eye doctor," Lunair states simply. "And um. Why would I want to look the same as other people?" This puzzles her. "I look how I wish." She seems quietly determined to carve out her place here. "But um, thanks, I think." She's not sure how the heck to take that. But she takes it in stride. It's probably a good thing that outside of fits and work, she's somewhat even tempered. "How are you? Who is your friend?"
Emma lowered her tone, and bumped her shoulder against Warren, "Darling have you ever /dated/ a bunny? They are boring and tend to be terrible dancers, but they all tend to be excellent kissers. But I might invite a few as guests next time."
She smiles at Karla as she departs to go meet with Shinobi. Good, the man needed a pretty thing to hit on before he got on anyone else's bad side. Her attention returned to Warren and continued, "Elephant in the room, so I'm going to ask. Weren't you dating Ms. Fiddlehead previously? I hope it ended on friendly terms."
Emma looked to his arm candy and gently touched her arm, "But you are a sight yourself, darling. However would you find us new drinks?"
Shinobi accepts the drink with a warm smile "Well thank you, and yes I was just getting reacquianted with some old friends and the lonshorman here. But I must admit you seem like far more fun to talk to" Shinobi holds up the drink and with a warm smile and a nod takes a sip. He let's the beuatiful woman pull him away from the clustered group of he had been antagonizing for his enjoyment.
"Oh, who said anything about them dancing or really even conversation?" Warren grins at Emma, "I'm just amused by the outfits that they wore back in the day. The Playboy Bunnies now? Ugh. Trashy." He finishes off his drink as Emma asks about his previous relationships, "Yes, I was. The first time it ended, it wasn't all that friendly. The second time, well, I suppose you could call it that. Friendly enough to remain passing acquaintances."
Arm Candy, enthralled by Emma Frost, seems more than happy to oblige. She extracates herself from the crook of Warren's arm and goes to refresh the drinks, noting what even Emma was drinking. "She's pleasant," is offered to the White Queen once she's out of earshot.
Fern is... puzzled by Leo's words to the young woman they approach, and it shows on her face as she looks between them. However, there is a voice that takes her attention for a moment, and Fern's blue eyes fall on Karla, holding as a smile is offered with a "Thank you." for the comment on her dress. She would offer a compliment in return, but she's a little off her game at the unexpected turn of Leo (accosting?) approaching Lunair. Having not been introduced, she still lifts her hand, offering the other woman a wave. "I'm Fern."
Lily returns Leo's attention with a brief little wave of her hand and then, as if thinking better of that, a small curtsey and a, "Thank you." She puts in a touch of French accent when she speaks, this time. And she also still looks a little concerned about Lunair. News that Lunair crashed the party doesn't seem to shock the woman at all, though she does blush a bit herself, taking a step away from the teen to separate herself a bit. "You're friends with /Deadpool/? /That/ Deadpool?" She sounds both dubious and even more worried at that, but apparently she's given up on trying to be protective. "I swear this city gets stranger and stranger every day."
"I find it fascinating how different language is, depending on the stage of civilization. I would think a world war would be one planet against another, while a world wide war of mostly one species would be more of a civil war. But I will look forward to speaking with this Namora. When I have contact with my species again, I will return the favor." Noh-Varr nods his head to Namor, then stretches. "I will go look at their food. I find it fascinating that the rich eat significantly less portions than the poor. How backwards. Enjoy yourself, Prince Namor."
Pacing is important, and Karla makes no rush in leading the man to the floor, letting him work on the sweet drink as they walk and making sure the right sort of song is going on, not to loud or fast to speak, not to slow as to be unduely intimate. "Dr. Karla Sofen." she supplies in a friendly manner, "Karla, to you, Mr. Shaw." Then she discards the last couple of sips of champagne to a passing tray. "So, how are your intrests in the city coming along, Sir?" She asks, matching song to drink completion, a subtle nod prompt to the floor as the right song does catch. "Shall we?"
Emma beamed at the girl as she went to provide the refreshments, but her attention was kept on Warren, "They still wear 'the outfit' but did you know that it was the first patented uniform? I've thought of commissioning something for myself for the club, but with the front and back lacing."
She gave a twirl, her cape swirling as she does so. "The corset and panties are traditional, but I do love to defy tradition. And as for Fern well, such is love and life."
"Ya, no flying tacos, he seriously isn't here," Leo comes back with about Deadpool, rolling his eyes. "And...inflirtration really isn't your speciality, is it Lunair?" It isn't disappointment, rather it is merely observation. But he smiles at Lily before Fern distracts him again. "Ah...right. Lunair, this is my paramour, Fern. Fern, this is Lunair. I've met her as Match, she has some amazing abilities, and she's a really nice and sweet girl." He doesn't say how crazy Lunair is, cause...well, she is crazy. But Leo likes her, so he's nice. "I tried to convince her to join The Infinite as it was forming, but no go. Pity really, I think she would have gotten a mega-fan base." Wait, Leo is singing praises of someone?! This is...strange.
But Leo also does it in the other direction, "Lunair, I've known Fern since I came to New York City. She's actually the nicest person I know, so you don't need to worry, just be yourself around her," he assures Lunair. "Just...wait, you are here just for the fun of it right? Please say you are." Noooo assassinations allowed when he's supporting his sponsor, Emma Frost in the Hellfire Club!
And now to include Lily! "And sorry for the chaos," and offers his free hand toward Lily, "Leo Luthor, as your service. This is my paramour Fern," nodding toward her, "And a friend of mine, Lunair," nodding toward her, even though she NEVER E-Mailed him!!!! How mean! He cried himself to sleep that night! Well, not really, but let's pretend.
And congrats, Fern gets to see Leo spastic...well, as spastic as he gets. Lunair is here! She's like pixie dust!
Namor nodded to Noh-Varr, "Since you work at the Academy of Tomorrow it should be easy enough to send my cousin to meet with you. I'm sure she'll be as pleased to speak with you as I have been, friend."
With Noh-Varr departing his company Namor looked about the room for a moment, many people dancing, drinking, flirting and some on the verge of public fornication. He understood why his old friend and team-mate, The Angel, liked this sort of thing. Though he wasn't entirely sure if it was his sort of party or not.
He saw Leo and Fern in their conversations, Shinobi and the Karla woman together and now Emma speaking to a man with wings. Interesting.
He approached Emma and Warren and repeated to Emma what he had been thinking a moment before, "I have to say I see why The Angel liked these sort of parties they were exactly the sort of thing he would like." He looked at Warren and then added, "I am Namor of Atlantis, it is a pleasure to meet any friend of Emma's."
"I did -not- know that it was the first patented uniform. Playboy was certainly rather savvy with business...I suppose that's why Hefner is a hundred years old and still bedding hot twenty-somethings. He knew what he was doing." Warren certainly looks on appreciatively as Emma Frost gives a twirl, "I think that you are far more individual than to adapt something as mundane and well-known as a Playboy Bunny uniform." He seems about ready to say more when Namor joins him and Emma.
There's a pause as his blue eyes blink and his own wings give a flick, "'The Angel'?" The name gets another blink, "I'm Warren Worthington the Third. A pleasure."
"It's definetely a pleasure, Karla" Shinobi says with a Warm smile placing his empty cup on passing tray. "My interests? going slower than I'd like but that's just personal preference I could move here and start business when I wish. Do wish to do business with me?" Shinobi asks before notcing Karla's invitation to dance. Shinobi puts his hands just above Karla's waist. "Yes we shall"
Lunair smiles politely, weakly to Lily. There's a sort of dulled, quiet distancing as Lily steps away. Lunair seems to get that a lot. Sort of like the strange dog roaming the parking lot slinking off tiredly. She just sort of nods. She seems puzzled by the worry. A shrug and a faint smile at the strange comment. "It's honest. I apologize for startling you."
"But thank you." Lunair looks really concerned. Nicest person he knows? She looks at Leo like he just dropped trou and started singing in French at full tilt. Then she stares at the glass she's picked up. Stare. Leo. Glass. What was in it? Her expression is quizzical and she's clearly very startled.
"If I were here for work, I'd have already left," She remarks quietly. Also, if Lunair was supposed to e-mail Leo, she completely missed the memo. She's trying, though. She's just been sort of thrown out of her metaphorical loop, even if said loop is like a donut lined with froot loops. Like a penguin navigating a greased slide, she struggles. There's a friendliness to her, but it's sort of in the social stew. And she falls flat emoting again. Eerie. "... but you are far too kind, thank you. I should probably go before I get either of you in trouble." But how to make the perfect exit? How?
Paramour? Fern may have to reconsider her stance on 'significant other' as far as introductions and Leo go. Maybe she can ease him into just saying a simple 'girlfriend' and be done with it. She smiles, ducking her head in greeting to Lily as well, murmuring a soft but no less sincere, "It's a pleasure." She's small town and it tends to show in big events such as this. Despite her aspirations for Hollywood, she has never shaken her upbringing. She laughs softly at Leo's enthusiastic introduction, adding to Lunair, "We'll have to find a quiet time to talk, exchange notes." Notes on what, she has no idea, but it seems like an interesting prospect all the same. Seeing the woman's apparent need to depart, Fern doesn't hinder, nor does she question. She's met too many people who feel the need to take off at a moment's notice to put them all on the spot questioning them. And that would be rude. So she rolls with the punches.
Taking Leo's hand, Lily gives another little curtsey - she's trying too hard, really - and shakes it limply. Uncomfortably limply. It's like shaking hands with a warm rag. "Oh my, I didn't realize-- I'm sorry if I was rude," she responds, to the introduction. "Lily Crane. Enchante'," is added, with a smile. "It's quite a pleasure to meet you." Once her hand is taken away from Leo, she gives Fern and Lunair both little curtseys in turn. "Ms. Fern. Ms. Lunair. Pleased to meet both your acquaintance." And with introductions done, she takes a sip from her champagne flute, turning just enough to give a look around the entire room and smile perhaps a bit too widely. "This really is quite more impressive an affair than I was expecting." From the way she talks, it's obvious she's having a hard time with trying to be eloquent.
Namor smiled and said, "Aye, the Angel, Thomas Halloway. He was a hero probably before you were born. He was part of my old team, the All Winner's Squad. He was a member of the Hellfire Club as well... spent years trying to make me go to one of these parties."
He placed his arm around Emma's minuscule waist and said, "Turns out he was just the wrong gender to get me to attend"
A funny little smile hit Emma's lips when Namor approached, she linked an arm about his shoulders when he returned to her side, "I like it when he comes here, it feels fitting amongst the normal 'Hell' motif."
When the girl returns with her white wine she takes a glass, smiling at her, "Thank you darling. And you are much too kind, Warren."
Emma smirked to Namor and whispered into his pointed her, but audible enough for anyone who cared to hear, "I can get you to do anything and you prefer it that way."
Warren Worthington takes the drink that Arm Candy brings back for him and she hooks her arm back in his, just being...Arm Candy. Blinking at Namor's explanation, Warren just shakes his head, "I never heard of him." He sips at his scotch as the couple talks to each other briefly, "Are you saying I feel normal among the 'Hell' motif? Really? I would tend to think the opposite."
It is art and dance all its own to arrange a man's hands subtly where you want them, in Karla's case, as she turns about to face Shaw on the dance floor. Take a hand, but let him lead, shift a hip, but subtly raise it and lower on the beat and draw the touch down. "Oh, I am more physician than investor, Mr. Shaw." The blonde says, chancing a glance to be aware of the other folks. "Still, I am always inrested in such things." She adds only after her eyes lock with Shinobi the only focus of her world, men tend to like that, and many women have evolved over time to be able to give off that feeling, even as they do note surroundings. Hand on his bicep, then shoulder as the music progresses. "I have heard of your successes else where, I am certin they will continue where ever your focus is placed."
"No, Deadpool would be bad PR, not you Lunair," Leo clarifies, yet again. Why does Lunair always think it's something wrong with her? "Anyway, considering I'm VIP, I can approve your admittance for the party," he advises Lunair. But Leo is then distracted by Lily however which will permit Lunair to escape. Awww, Lily's so nice to do that! "Lily...," as if testing it, "I like that name," actually admitting it. Having Fern, Lunair, Namor, and Emma in the same vincinity of him has apparently relaxed Leo to just be more...natural. As for the mention of the 'affair'?
Well, Leo glances about and says, "Me? I could use less dancers and less latex, but then again, the Hellfire Club members might revolt on me if I tried that." He doesn't look at the dancers long, seeming completely and utterly uninterested. Leo is...strange like that. And Leo gets a bit of a funny look on his face when he accidentally overhears Emma whisper in Namor's ear. The reason? Likely zoned in on her after looking at the dancers thinking of her love for it. He glances over toward them and Warren, before looking back to be all..., "Wait...Lunair slipped away." He sighs.
Lunair doesn't seem to mind fancier words. She smiles a little at Fern and nods, "Um. Sure thing. And sorry to go soon," She does seem polite at least. Kinda. In a strange, not-emoting-properly kind of way. She curtsies neatly to Lily in turn. "And thank you. The pleasure is all mine, Miss Crane and Miss Fern." Actually, as Lunair slips away, she throws something small into the air. It seems she chucked a few rose petals over Leo and Fern's head. Kooky kid. But yes, Lunair does depart quietly, lest she cause trouble.
"Do not tempt me to prove you wrong, Emma," Namor whispered to her with a small smile, "Or at least to prove it goes both ways."
He smiled warmly at Warren and said, "It doesn't surprise me the All Winner's Squad disbanded in 1976. Most of its members retired after wards. I myself went back to my people who were sorely in need of me. But I believe Thomas just retired into obscurity along with the many of the others."
Namor can feel Emma's soft but strangely firm voice in his mind, |"You should learn to enjoy me in your mind, it's so much easier to express yourself. And I already know you have such /fun/ thoughts."|
She smirked to Warren, "Was only a joke, darling. A man like you should be comfortable in any room."
Fern nods to Lunair before her eyes lift curiously to the petals, her hand not occupied with a half full glass lifting to catch one on her palm. She looks at it curiously a moment, then closes her fingers gently around it as her attention shifts back to her remaining companions. "I think it's a nice party," she says, somewhat belatedly and very diplomatically. Like Leo, she could do without some of the accoutrements, but it is what it is. "But I do tend to like things more informal. Comfortable clothes and good friends." Still, stepping out of her comfort zone is a small thing to do for Leo.
"Uhm. All right," Warren offers in response to Namor's History lesson. He swirls around the scotch in his glass, looking very much that he really could care less. He doesn't tend to come to these parties to be lectured to. A smile returns some at Emma's comment, "I try to be...unless said room is very small or has low ceilings. Then it's a little more difficult to be truly comfortable."
Shinobi goes with Karla hinting and leads the dance with evident skill and grace as he has been training in western dancing though he doesn not enjoy it much. He does however thoroughly enjoy the attention being paid to him by Karla. "I'm sure you are a very successfull physician especially seeing as you gained an invitation to this party" Shinobi says to flatter his beautiful dance partner, then when she flatters him. Shinobi segways the compliment she gives him into more flirting "And if I should set my focus on you?" Shinobi gets straight to the point but with a bit of tact to him. "It's been a long while since I've met someone as enjoyable as you".
Which means letting go of Leo's hand. And Leo is dealing with a rose petal that landing on his nose. He wiggles his nose and it falls, the other petals in his hair seem to vibrant and go flying off. "Least it wasn't something that exploded," thinking of the positive side, "Or a taco." Deadpool has influenced Lunair after all! He then reaches over to remove the few from Fern that still clings.
"Thank you," Lily answers Leo, in response to the compliment on her name. She then smiles a bit conspiratorially and notes, "I didn't necessarily say /nice/. But it is impressive. The latex /is/ a bit much," she nods. And after Lunair slips away, she watches the girl with some bewilderment, turning just in time to see those rose petals fluttering over Leo and Fern. With another little smile and sip from her champagne, she remarks, "I think you two may be married now."
Namor gave Emma a look as she thought into his mind. Again. Yes they were going to have to have that discussion again. He would forgive her for now however since he knew she had a few drinks and got a bit like that when she did.
Namor actually laughed a bit at Warren's comments and adds, "I can understand that honestly. I do find it rather disconcerting with low ceilings and the like. Living in an environment that promotes three dimensional movement your entire life can make you acutely aware of when you're boxed in a bit."
Leo says, "Duly noted," about Lily's comment of the difference between nice and impressive. But he then double takes at the rest and actually..wait, is he a little pink in the face? He is thankful for the low lighting in here all of a sudden. He clears his throat, "Ah...," about that marriage thing. "I think Fern would flip." Considering how much she paniced over his intensity in the past...and honestly, he hasn't thought that far! But he's not about to confess that now! His Father would be turning over in his grave, well, if he was dead.
Fern takes it in stride, having had just enough champagne to make that a smooth transition, and she grins at Lily, then at Leo. "Guess I can let my lease go then, huh?" she teases him lightly. Looking back at Lily, she adds, "As long as my family never know. They just won't understand why they weren't invited." She reaches for Leo's hand again, trapping the rose petal between their palms as she smiles up at him. "Oh, and that thing I mentioned I'd lost? When you have a minute, will you help me look for it?" The champagne glass, still at it's last level, is deposited on the nearest passing tray of empties.
Emma rolled her eyes at Namor's mental resistance, much like her girls, telepathic communication was common language for her but less so.
She smiled to Warren, "Thank you again for coming, you are, as always a vision Warren. Call on me anyime."
She reached out to touch at the side of his Jawline, accepting the new drink from the girl as she turned away and took her attention to Namor, as they were finally alone while they walked away, "Even if this 'monkey party' was a bore to you, you are...a sight tonight Namor, I must say. I didn't know you could be more handsome."
Lily lifts her glass to salute the couple, still grinning lightly. "I'm sure if you explain how spontaneous it was they might come to accept it." She takes up another hors d'oeuvre, examining it before indelicately just eating the whole thing, followed by a sip of her drink that empties the glass, which she then puts on a passing server's tray. "Actually, not to be rude but I should probably do some more mingling, myself. But as I said, it was a pleasure meeting both of you." One last curtsey from Lily, for each member of the pair! "Monsieur Luthor. Ms. Fern. Do have a good rest of your evening." And with that, she's lingering off to get lost in the crowd.
"I am a member, I think I just got the letter, but you are kind to think so, Mr. Shaw." Karla says smoothly as she keeps the blues focused on his gaze, the room watched in periphery only, why else are there so many spins in dances? The lips press a little bit and a little head pull. Humans are predators, they like motion, not too much, the right gesture, something to follow.
"Oh, a very direct question." The expression brightening towards excitement, "Always a difficult one for a woman to answer though. I could say, a non-comittal maybe, or perhaps. Then that is already suggestive, though. I could simply nod, yes. That takes the sport out of it though. So, what is the best answer. I suppose, if I have your complete focus, and based on your track record, there are high odds I will be compeled to say it is very likely when we are discussing it over breakfast." Karla says playfully, adding a little more sway into the steps, and leaning closer, breaking eye contact with Shinobi to whisper in lower her voice. "Do you like omelets?" Of course, while saying that, she can see what the White Queen is doing, note the Submariner's current focus on Warren, watch Leo and the two unfamiliar women, and get a fix on the Kree.
Art, and simplicity.
"I extend the same to you," Warren offers to Emma and he gives a nod to Namor, "A pleasure to meet you..." before he turns to Arm Candy. There are a few murmured words before they mingle for a few more minutes, surreptitiously making their way to one of the 'back rooms'. Seems that Arm Candy was quite inspired by the dancing and decor of this evening's party and wanted to find a way to 'get warm'.
SKID! SMASH! CRASH! Wait, did Leo just get smacked between the eyes?! He's look at Fern like a Skrull is impersonating her. "Umm...," and then it double hits Leo. "Lily! Yes, another time, that would be delightful." And Leo mentally projects toward Emma, << Got to fly, or run, or something. We lost something, don't ask...you will make me blush! I'll make it up to you later Emma! >> And Leo is sooooo excorting Fern right out of there!
Namor smirked at Emma's comment to him, "Really? I look more handsome now? I thought it was only the other night that you told me, 'You really shouldn't wear clothes at all, it gets in the way of your handsomeness." He said that a bit too loud possibly.
"And I never called it a monkey party. I save calling your lot 'talking monkeys' only when I am declaring war on the surface. Which I doubt will happen anytime soon," Namor considered a moment, "Or maybe I should just do it and get it over with... I could probably run the surface better than most of your leaders."
With that Namor scooped Emma up into his arms and flew into the air above the crowd almost to the ceiling of Dashwood Hall, "And as much as I hate to take you away from your hosting duties I have decided that we are to adjourn to someplace more private." A smile is given to her and said, "THEN, you can read my mind."
Shinobi smiles and blushes he is thoroughly enjoying the attention, Shinobi likes to have his tires pumped and to feel wanted. Bit bad mix of ego and insecurity but it does make him easier to handle. "Yes well I'm a direct sort of person, and right now I feel like focusing on you. the loveliest woman in the building." Shinobi says before leaning in to whisper "I'd like them if served in bed next to you"
After a few more moments Shinobi whispers again "I know what you are doing, are you waiting for someone?"
Karla doesn't reply with more than a smile till the change over to the next song, a faster beat, and she is still pondering Namor flying Emma up like that. No sense distracting Shaw with little details like that though. She just blushes a little, and lets that 'perfect lighting' settle on her again. A glance to the door, "In the building. Flattery is so wonderful, and a very charming manner to go with it. I could not rate myself such, here. But there are other buildings my vanity could be content in, if you care to walk with me?"
Shinobi smiles and nods given that he is unworried about anythign happening to him and now that he is thoroughly charmed by this beauty. "I would enjoy that" shinobi says with a boyish chuckle as he offers his arm, and invites Karla to lead the way. He would be worried about a someone so high maintance as to need certain lighting but then again he himself is very vain and he isn't exactly looking for someone to spend too much time with in Karla. yet.