"Ehhh." Shy wrinkled her nose as she caught the faint music and waited to see if Kasiya would try to lead. "Is a /lot/ of things make me think of home. Not unusual. Is fine." She paused, glancing away. "Is not easy, leaving everything you know for new place, never going back. Especially if not your choice." The young lady looked up at Kasiya again, and while her smile wasn't wide, it was genuine. "But I find lots of reasons it not so bad. ...If someone say, you go back but never visit Subeta, I not know what to choose. Many people here I like seeing. Many friends, many things I enjoy. Is nice, not always thinking about Rifts. ...Still need to decide what to do as job. Nothing seem quite right. And I /much/ older than other students. Much older. Though they say they be adults in couple years, like me, so maybe not."

She didn't want to just talk about herself, though. She wanted to hear what had happen in the years since she'd last seen Kasiya. "You say you were very busy since last time. Can't just be with Saintzer, you say he be alone before. So what were you doing? Anything interesting? You travel at all?"

Ven shrugged slightly at Jean’s suggestion. () “Didn’t know there was royalty in Peka Glade…” But then again he didn’t much care for high society. People who had lots of money often also had too much time on their hands. They tended to think they could do whatever they wanted and could avoid the consequences, something Ven thought was utter nonsense. He jumped slightly as Sorn bid them adieu. () Had anyone been able to see his face it would have been a comical expression. Sorn really was a strange creature, but powerful beings were known for having an eccentric side. Regaining his composure Ven crossed his arms and watched this so called ‘cutting in’ although it looked boring and had nothing to do with a knife.

It was Liana’s turn to jump when Sorn tapped her shoulder. Her face being rather visible beneath her mask, her expression elicited a laugh from the Prince. “He has a point.” Devin mused. Had he winked or had he blinked, it was impossible to tell. Liana gave a huff but it almost sounded like a sigh of relief. These two looked to have much in common, may as well let them have each other. Brushing her palms against her skirts she made a mock bow neither man noticed and slipped away to the side of the dance floor, muttering something about narcissistic nudist colonies missing a few campers as she went.

[img align=left]https://s26.postimg.org/rk8yht1ft/Dev2017.png[/img] Devin was most intrigued, his eye sparkled gleefully as he took the other man’s hand. Sure he was mildly disappointed he wasn’t able to hold onto mrs.flighty a while longer. But this was a very acceptable replacement. “Prince Devin the VII.” He nodded slightly and grinned charmingly in response to Sorn’s offer. “Would it be my pleasure or yours?” He teased. It was nice to run into someone who was on the same page. Although the dark complexion and the burning eyes reminded him of his wayward brother. Surely it was just a coincidence.

(( I just died laughing. RIP me XDD ))

(( honestly I am looking forward to seeing these two dance around each other, in more than one way. laughing entirely too hard This is gonna be great. <3))

((I laughed to tears lol.))

“If we are adding titles, then I am High Priest Sorn Desp’Fre.” Sorn’s smile widened, “That depends on how much pleasure you wish. I am sure we could satisfy each other—and even the dance floor. For surely everyone deserves to see such fine specimens as ourselves enjoying all that we have to offer.” His finger trailed down Devin’s chest as he licked his lips. “Yes, I believe the pleasure would be mutual.”

((ooc: ....oh god there's two of them XDD))

(( haha I know right? xD I'm insanely happy about this. I meant to take him around to others but lol Ven held too much of an interest with him and now Devin. This should prove amusing to read though lmao. Next ball I might have to bring two chars so I can swirl around with more people.))

“High Priest, sounds tedious. However did you manage to escape?” Escaping was one of Devin’s specialties. After all his mother objected to most anyone leaving the Glade especially the ‘important’ citizens of which Devin was considered. Then again he didn’t really care, odds were he wouldn't see Sorn again once the Masquerade had ended. May as well make the most of it. Sorn’s touch sent a tingle down Devin’s spine and he bit his lip, only years of dance lessons keeping him in step with the music. “I’m tempted to agree.” The grin he wore sparkled almost as much as his outfit. Surely the other masquerade patrons were being granted an immaculate treat. ()

Still bristling Liana approached Ven and mimicked his stance, arms crossed leaning back. “Hope you enjoyed yourself, think I’ll stay close from now on.” She shivered a little pretending like it was the open window giving her a chill. “What’s that guy’s problem anyway.” It was rhetorical but Ven didn’t catch the nuance. “There’s a lot of power inside that shell, surely you have some understanding.” Liana smiled and rolled her eyes before giving him a slight shove. “I know that. C’mon, I need some water.” The two turned and made their way back toward the bar.

(( I apologize in advance!!!! XD ))

(( What's stopping you bringing in another? Nothing saying you can't just pop them in~

omg apology so not necessary I need this smiling thing so much right now so thank you for it XD

This is going to be an eventful event, isn't it... lol))

"I guess it depends on one's view point. I did far more than just ritualistic sacrifices to our Goddess. But my exile ended when my sister killed my half sister and regained the crown. Now I am free to do as I please." His smile was a mix of pain and pleasure. "Well, at least that exile. An exile wrapped in an exile." He didn't elaborate. "The guests here would surely thank us. All this dancing can surely get boring, without some extra activities."

(( I'm not sure who to bring, but I'll think about it XD)

Usually when flirting this much the prince preferred to be drunk, but Sorn was intoxicating in a new and exciting way. Devin hadn’t ever shared a dance let alone this sort of small talk with a Priest before. The spiritual leaders of his people were open minded enough sure, but none of them would ever dare touch a royal.

However, Devin’s elated expression faltered at the mention of murder. At one time he had been put in a similar situation. Only blind luck had seen him through. In an attempt to get his mind off of it, he did the only thing he could think to do. “You seem tense, allow me to help you unwind.” There was a pause in the music. Devin flexed his muscles and dipped the other man before leaning in to kiss him like no one was watching. Extra activities indeed.

(( ummm... feel free to punch him. It is 100% OK 👍 ))

((AHAHA I am /dying/. holds sides Can't breathe. Send help. <3 I'm so sorry . I'm sorry everyone. Actually no I'm not. This was a terrible idea but I REGRET NOTHING! wheeze

, definitely bring in more people! I mean, I'd offer to play Kat for you, but...not sure I can handle a third with all my other rps. So maybe Niall? Or...or...um. Well really any of yours -- maybe you can convince Die to hop in?

As a warning, I have zero intention of stopping just because the masquerade stops, so if people are still around this thread will keep going. <3))

Jean saw her friend jump at the pat to his backside. Oh, dear. Yes, perhaps it would be for the best if the two...ah risque -- not to mention self-absorbed -- party animals amused each other. Besides, watching it should be quality entertainment, so long as it didn't break any ratings. She had to laugh at the thought, and shook her head. "Why do you attract all the touchy ones, Venom?" she asked him, patting his shoulder briefly. "But it looks like that's your charge out of danger, for now."

She smiled and offered a hand as the woman approached them. "Hello. I'm a friend of Venom's. The name's Jean Marzena. I hope you don't mind if I stick around for the moment." She too fell in as they headed for the bar, glancing over her shoulder. Yes, it seemed like prince and former priest would get along just fine.

(( ooh, did his brother try to kill him? Is that how he lost his eye? pries into Devin's past Really I just need to drag you off to rp more often.))

(( lol -dies with- Why'd he hit him? lmao. Hmm, well I know Paul's a no. He'd never dance with others except his wife. Raven just had a baby and her hubs would kill others lol. So it is kinda down to either Niall, Mags or make someone else up. But Niall is so timid... I'll have to think on it.))

It was rare when Sorn was caught off guard and Prince Devin surprised Sorn with the dip and even more so with the kiss. Sorn’s mouth parted automatically and he tasted the exotic breath. His long white hair hit the floor but that did not matter in the slightest. His red eyes bore into the other man’s. “A most agreeable method of relaxing people,” he said as his hands slid over Devin. There was a spark of amusement in Sorn’s eyes as well as a longing.

Kasiya picked up the general cadence of the music and lead Shylarah into a simple but elegant dance. "I suppose that much is to be expected." He glanced down at her and then hummed. "A lot of it did involve Saint. It was a long process, and not one I want to repeat. But, some of it did involve my brother. We travelled a little, mainly on business. Platina is good at being a diplomat but he keeps me around as a bodyguard in case things go wrong. Which, on one occasion, they did. It was lucky I was there. Things changed pretty quickly when Saintzer ah... went off."

"Is nice, getting to work with family. I never work with -- not old enough -- but sometimes I train with cousin only a few years older." She smiled. "I still remember first time I break his guard. He always stronger, but I learn to be faster." Shylarah chuckled. "Worth it just for look on his face."

She was pleased to find that Kasiya had improved far more than his demurral lead her to believe. "You dance much better now," she told him as she put her hand back on his shoulder after a turn. "And you say you barely practice. Is lies~" Her tone turned teasing. "Not go from stepping on feet to this without lots of work. We know it not because you have natural talent for dance. Last time show that very well." She wasn't laughing at him, and she wasn't being mean. But the way the young lady's eyes danced behind her mask, she was definitely just this side of laughter.

Kasiya actually smiled at that. "Well, I'm glad I improved a little." He gave her a little twirl as if to show her point and continued dancing without missing a beat. "Platina made sure to give me a few lessons before this year's masquerade. I doubt he'll make an appearance, but it is what it is."

Saintzer lifted his head and watched them. He watched and remembered. Ciel had held him in such a way once... He exhaled and lay his head back down and tried not to think about his life before he destroyed it all. It was better to not hold onto the past. What's done was done... Now he just needed to atone for it and never do it again.

"More than a little!" she exclaimed, her wings flaring slightly at the spin. He'd signaled her for it as the lead should, so she'd not messed up her steps. Leads that didn't signal meant she ended up stepping on toes, unless she was /very/ cautious. "I think maybe more than just a few. Or maybe you have talent if you have good teacher." Shy knew she was nowhere near good enough to be considered anything but the most rudimentary of dance instructors. She beamed at Kasiya. "Glad you learn. Maybe next time, /you/ teach /me/." If he knew more than she did, the girl would be happy to learn from him.

"Platina not coming? I know he really like Masquerade, and dancing. Is a shame he will miss out." It was unfortunate, but much like Kasiya said, it was what it was. Besides, she didn't know Platina well, and she'd spent less time with him than with even his brother. Or maybe he just hadn't made any particular impression on her, besides his wings and signature.

((Seven-hour-long dress rehearsals are not fun. Just in the event anyone was wondering.))

A loud, angry word rang out briefly over the Lounge. Whatever it was matched no language anyone else in the room spoke, but the tone with which it was said marked it likely to be something less than polite on some level, at the least. Kyriel, who had been its source, blushed deeply, her whole face taking on a golden tinge that complimented her outfit surprisingly well, and glared at the small white-and-gold dragon perched on her shoulder. A few tiny beads of golden liquid welled up on her ear where the beast had nipped her, which she ignored for the moment.

"I thought I told you to behave," she told Achemar, her voice quieter now, but still angry. "I've about had it with you. If you won't act according to the standards here, I'll find some other form to keep you in." She paused, and he responded, his telepathic voice heard only to her, for the moment: You spaced out again. And besides, I think a couple of your... Well, acquaintances, at least, are nearby. Kyriel glanced around at that, reading the presences of the people close to her, and sighed heavily. He was right. She didn't necessarily know them well, but there were definitely at least two people quite nearby who she recognized in some capacity, at least...

(( for...choir? can't remember Ugh, even ours are usually only a couple hours. Though so are regular practices -- two to two and a half. We also don't have to actually /dress/ for dress rehearsal, just run through everything properly. Break a leg for the performance! ANd it's good to have you back. <3

At some point I need to ask you about her backstory in detail.))

(( I do choir, but no, this was for the opera ensemble. Choir dress rehearsals, yeah, they're usually two or three hours tops. And involve a lot less running up and down stairs, holding ladders down, dancing... Et cetera. Thanks though <3 Performances are tomorrow and Friday night, but hopefully I can squeeze a response in here if y'all say something to me.

You could always ask her, too. : P I usually like to let her do the explaining if I can. But yeah, sure thing~))

Kasiya gave a snort. "If you want a good teacher, you ought to ask my brother. I honestly don't have the patience he does when it comes to teaching others." He doubted any other dancing partners in the masquerade would respond as readily or as neatly as she did. It was nice; it made him feel accomplished in something. "But I'm sure you can find someone here more easily that would be willing to teach."

Saintzer had memorized the steps Kasiya and Shylarah were taking and was counting silently in his head while listening to the music. Dancing didn't seem all that difficult. But, perhaps it was one of those things that looked easy in theory but in practice, was not so easy.