Laissez les Bon Temps Rouler! (:

[GGJ5]

Let the good times roll! You are invited to the annual Mardi Gras Debutante Club Ball at the New Orleans Country Club. This year, the ball will serve as a fundraiser to the state's children's hospital.

The cotillion ballroom is lavishly decorated in purples and golds with the rare sprinkle of deep green, and the long tables serving the food and drinks are lined in white cloth. A wide array of food and drinks decorate these tables, spanning from cucumber sandwiches to chicken salad to muffalettas, water to Sprite to tea and red wine. The debutantes, who are the guests of honor at this event, traditionally wear brilliant white or pastel gowns. Each debutante's family has its own table for the young lady and her invited friends and family, decorated uniquely but all sharing the same DCNO (Debutante Club of New Orleans) golden centerpiece.

A strings ensemble plays to the side of the stage, where each debutante will be formally presented with her family.

[Elda Forever]

OOC: Yukito is open for anyone! Amane will be arriving with Kagayaki. <3 LET THE OPERA BEGIIIIIN! BIC:

Amane Ourmura ~ Mask - Outfit

She felt that she was walking on air, each step making her heart quiver and jump, eager to get to the party. Amane remembered the last time she'd gone to a party like this – she'd ended up sitting across the table from the boy she loved, moments after he'd had his heart broken and with her unable to comfort him, much less tell him how she'd felt. She had gone to that party alone, and left alone, feeling miserable and ugly and unloved. Tonight was a contrast to that so sharp it felt like a dagger in her chest. At her side was another boy, one who was more prone to smiles and who loved her back. Her hand nervously held his, and she was afraid her palms were sweating. How uncool, she thought, wishing she could wipe it off on her dress but not wanting to release his hand, a little voice in the back of her mind afraid that he would leave her and not come back. They hadn't been dating very long, but she'd known him long enough to know he wouldn't. But she was still timid, and afraid. Her hands reached up to check that her mask was still secure, and her eyes wandered down to her dress for the hundredth time. She had originally wanted something more colorful, but in the end, her giddy mother had insisted she go for the white outfit.

Once she'd tried on the short, pure-white gown with the matching shrug, she'd looked in the mirror and felt beautiful for the first time in a long time. 'I look like a flower,' she'd murmured stupidly, causing her to giggle at herself. 'I hope Kagayaki likes it...' They'd found matching earrings and a necklace, and it had been surprisingly easy to find a matching mask. Amane wasn't sure if they were supposed to wear masks, but that was rumor. Besides, how often did people get the chance to wear masks, anyway? They were fun to wear, though they felt odd and closed off part of her vision. She'd pulled her hair back in a simple half-tail and her mother had helped her curl the ends of her hair, and she'd been putting on her makeup when Kagayaki had come to do the door. The whole night so far had been something out of one of those cutesy 80s movies, and they hadn't even gotten to the party yet! Sure, Kagayaki couldn't drive, and she wasn't old enough, but she didn't mind walking down the street with him. It was surprisingly warm for this time of year, and she was eager and ready for spring. “I'm so excited,” she whispered, giving a little bounce in her heels, “I wonder which of our friends will be there?”

Yukito Maki ~ Mask - Outfit

This wasn't really how he'd wanted to spend the evening. A few weeks ago, when the Mardi Gras party had been brought up and spread around like a nasty piece of gossip, Erin had immediately declared that her and Yukito had to go and join in the fun. It had been weeks since they'd gone to a party, she'd insisted, and they needed to get out more. The day before the party, though, she'd gotten sick. Words could not adequately describe Erin's disappointment. But they had already signed on to go as chaperones, and Erin wanted Yukito to go for the both of them. She had mentioned several times that she had really been looking forward to the snacks offered. He couldn't turn her down when she was sneezing and coughing. Well, he couldn't turn her down most times, but sickness just added to her persuasive abilities.

So they'd found him a costume, a dark red one with too many frills and edges on it for Yukito. He grumbled the whole time, fussing about the lacy collar and the cumbersome cuffs, though he secretly enjoyed it when Erin tugged on the collar and the hem, playing with it and talking about its details and changing it up, and what she thought of it. His silent enjoyment of the costume became deflated when he arrived at the party, unfortunately, and realized how naked he felt going without Erin. Leaving her at home had felt like he was giving away every last dollar he owned to a complete stranger – nonsensical and leaving him feeling hollow. But he kissed her goodbye and went down to the party, helping with last minute set up then taking a place near one of the entrances, keeping a solemn eye on the party from behind his mask. The last time he'd worn the mask had been during the costume party for Halloween, when Erin had broken up with him in the middle of the dance floor. Quietly, he frowned, lifting the mask up off his head and holding it in his hand instead.

[More than Music]

Kagayaki Aidou -- Outfit - Mask

He was caught between being incredibly happy and more nervous than he'd ever been.

On one hand -- literally, which made him smile as wide as he could -- he had one of the prettiest girls in the whole world coming to a party with him. That made him look over. Even under her mask -- maybe even more -- she was so beautiful. And Kagayaki could see how excited she was as she bounced beside him. The white dress just looked incredible on her, more than he could've said in either English or Japanese.

Then again, there was just something wordless about their love.

The thing bothering him was that, now, their love would be out there for everyone to see. For the most part, they'd kept to themselves about this whole thing. Even after she'd asked him to be her boyfriend, he hadn't really said much to his friends. Lily, as far as he knew, was the only one of his friends that knew he loved Amane, and that they were really together.

Now, everyone would know for sure.

It wasn't that he didn't want them to know, or that he was ashamed of Amane. She was wonderful! He would never, ever be ashamed of her. But his friends had been through a bit with her, after the things that happened with her and Yukito. He was almost sure they wouldn't approve of it, and he guessed that was why he hadn't been talking to them as much.

How could he talk to someone often without mentioning Amane? It was torture to try and keep all conversation from involving her or things he did with her. It was easier with Yukito, because he actually felt as if he was the least angry about the whole thing. Erin flinched at the mention of Amane and Cassie got quiet, but Yukito didn't seem to mind. Still, he hadn't told Yukito he was seeing Amane. Maybe it was fear. He'd grown up his whole life being afraid of losing his friends, and it was hard to make himself believe that he wouldn't lose them if he told them how much he loved her.

She made him start to think about the future. Like, beyond the next few years. He was almost twenty-two now, he'd told himself while looking in the mirror this morning, and he had to start thinking about who he wanted to be with forever. Once, he'd thought it would be Cassie. But it couldn't. They just weren't right for each other. Cassie needed someone smarter, more mature, who was better at talking and better at understanding. He knew he could get better at those things, if he tried, but he didn't want to have to change anymore. Time would make him better, but if he liked the way he was. He liked being with Amane, because it meant he didn't have to change.

He could do this. He could let people see them. And, if they tried to say anything bad about her, he would be there. Anyway, they had their masks, didn't they? Amane had giggled at the sight of his, and he liked it too. It was... different. It didn't hide his eyes, and parts of his smile peeked through, but it was almost like a protective barrier between him and the world. Like his big coat.

“I'm so excited,” she said, skipping a little.

Kagayaki laughed. “I excited, you excited... Party!”

“I wonder which of our friends will be there?”

He pouted his lips a little, looking up at the building as they got closer. “Don't know... Yukito-kun, yes. Cassie-chan, think. Shelby-chan and...” He stopped at the front door, turning and taking both of her hands in his. “Amane-chan...” Leaning closer, he gave her a little kiss. “Love you.”

'I do, I love you, but I'm scared about what they'll say... Does that make me bad? I don't want to hurt you... I don't want to hide you. But they get mad when I say how happy I want to be with you.'

[The Phantom of Paris]

Cassandra "Cassie" Wright--Dress -- Shoes -- Mask

Cassie cautiously stepped out of the car, resisting the urge to lift the hem of her dress to see how the Band-Aids were holding up. In her fit of nervousness, she'd managed to slice her legs to ribbons while trying to shave them, resulting in bandages across almost every inch of skin and pretty much ruining the perfect Cinderella image she'd been envisioning for herself at this party. She hadn't even wanted to go, given her track record at parties, but in the end it had been a joint effort of Erin, Lilith, and maybe even a little work on Yukito's part that had convinced her.

If you could call being terrified and tempted to run back to her car 'convinced.'

She adjusted her mask, almost wishing that it hid more of her face as she approached the building. There was a couple on the front steps in the act of kissing, but she slipped past them without a word, as silent and quick as the real Cinderella trying to escape her prince. The pair looked slightly familiar even behind the masks, and Cassie had a feeling she didn't want to stick around to figure out who they were. I shouldn't have even come. They said Kagayaki and his stalker girl was coming, and I can't handle that tonight, I can't...

As she entered, her mind wandered to Cat, who she had mentioned the party to. Would he come? She was torn between wishing he would and hoping against hope that he had found something better to do. Why did this strange boy fascinate her so much? Did she have some sort of weird crush on him or something? She hoped not. After the disastrous fallout from her breakup with Clarence, Shelby had forced Cassie into making a 'vow of celibacy'--a promise not to date or think about dating until she'd gotten her life in order a little bit. Which, of course, it still wasn't. But did she like Cat? More importantly, did she actually like him, or just like the idea of being in a relationship?

Stupid costume. The real Cinderella didn't have it this hard. She just had to talk to her mice and clean the house. And run. She did a whole lot of running.

She glanced around the room awkwardly, noting that she was among the first to arrive. Cinderella wasn't like that, either. She was fashionably late... When she finally spotted Yukito, looking like someone who'd just jumped from the pages of a history book and holding his mask as if the last thing in the world he wanted was to put it on, she made a beeline towards him, thankful to have at last found someone to talk to who, hopefully, was just as wary about tonight as she was. Cassie wondered if he, too, was remembering the last Masquerade ball they had all attended...

"He's here, the Phantom of the Opera," she said quietly once she reached him, seeing the musical notes etched onto his mask, hoping that it wasn't still too soon to joke about the near-disastrous movie version that Shelby had directed them in so long ago.

[Elda Forever]

Amane Ourmura

“I'm so excited,” she said, skipping a little. It made Kagayaki laugh, and she smiled, feeling the urge to skip and bounce the whole way to the party. Though her shoes wouldn't allow that, she was sure. Plus, she wanted to stay pretty as long as she could for him.

“I excited, you excited... Party!” he exclaimed, and something about the way he said it made her laugh aloud, one hand covering her mouth as she tried to contain herself. Tonight was going to be so much fun. With all the dancing and pretty people, hidden behind their masks. Kagayaki's was particularly amusing, with a long nose on it that she was tempted to grab and give a good shake, to test how secure it was to his face. Plus, she had to admit, she didn't like how much of his face was hidden behind the false one.

“I wonder which of our friends will be there?”

She saw his lips protrude out from beneath the mask and gave a quiet little giggle while he turned to look at the building in front of them. They were so close! “Don't know... Yukito-kun, yes. Cassie-chan, think. Shelby-chan and...” I am glad. I like Shelby and Yukito. I don't know Cassie, though..not very well, at least.. Amane's perpetual smile faded a little at that. She wasn't sure what to think of Cassie. He stopped at the front door, turning and taking both of her hands in his, diverting her attention from his ex-girlfriends. “Amane-chan...” Leaning closer, he gave her a little kiss, and her heart skipped a few beats at the sensation. He could do that a hundred more times, and she still wouldn't be used to it. Even having the dodge his enormous mask-nose. “Love you.”

Amane gave a little giggle, kissing the part of his mask where his cheek would have been, whispering in his ear, “I love you, too.” The statement sent into her more little giggles, “But your mask is hard to kiss around, kareshi!” She took his hand more firmly, starting to drag him along, “Let's go! The party's starting already!” When they got inside, everything was a wonder to her. The colors, the tables, the dance floor. Not many people were here, but she didn't mind. She spotted Yukito near the door, and gave him a shy little wave, her smile pushing her mask a little away from her face. “Oooh..look there! It's a real orchestra!” She wove her way through the thin, early-start crowd to stand directly in front of the cellist, her eyes wide as she watched his fingers expertly play. “Ooooh...It sounds so pretty..”

Yukito Maki

The music began to play, and a few early arrivers filed into the room, all of them dressed elegantly, if not elaborately. Yukito remained in his corner, looking up as he saw someone coming his way. Not sure about the protocol, he casually slipped his mask back on, as Cassie walked up to greet him. He wasn't sure if she was doing it on purpose, but she seemed to glide across the floor in her gown, her mask elaborate but unable to hide her long red hair, a good indicator of her identity.

"He's here, the Phantom of the Opera," she said quietly once she reached him, earning a rare smile in response. He didn't like to admit it aloud, but he'd enjoyed their musical. In many ways, it was very similar to the connection he had had with his band, but in this case, he hadn't been the only one to sing or take center stage once in awhile. Even though certain scenes had been less than enjoyable to watch from the sidelines.

“Bravi,” he murmured in response, “Though I always thought a Japanese phantom didn't make sense. Since he was supposed to be French..” Yukito moved to cross one leg over the other, automatically reaching to slip his hands into his pockets but finding none there. After an awkward millisecond, he crossed his arms on his chest, then inspected her gown more thoroughly. “You look beautiful tonight,” came his simple but honest assertion. He sent her a little smirk, “But to be honest, I don't envy you. I can't imagine having to wear a dress like that. So I have no complaints about my own outfit.” He tugged a bit on the jacket, the velvet beneath his fingertips soft and somewhat comforting. “But I have to add that Erin picked it out, not me. It is kind of a 'living vicariously through you' moment.” He glanced around her, then the room, spotting a couple come in. The girl waved, and he waved back, not sure he could place her but knowing she was familiar, as was the guy with her. He couldn't be sure, but it looked like Kagayaki, so that must have been Amane... he gave a little wave back, then returned to Cassie. “Are you with someone, or are you also solo tonight?”

[More than Music]

Kagayaki Aidou

“I wonder which of our friends will be there?”

He smiled, looking over at the building as she giggled. “Don't know... Yukito-kun, yes. Cassie-chan, think. Shelby-chan and...” He stopped, taking her hands in his as they got to the door, noticing her smile starting to go away a little. “Amane-chan...” He kissed her sideways, so he could go around his mask. She seemed to like that. “Love you.”

Amane giggled, kissing his mask. He felt his face grow a little hot, even though he was quite sure why. “I love you, too,” she whispered. He could feel her breath on his ear, and it tickled, making him smile broadly. “But your mask is hard to kiss around, kareshi!” Then she was dragging him inside.

"Ah!" he cried, before finding himself in a fit of giggles.

“Let's go! The party's starting already!”

They got inside and Kagayaki sort of froze. It was so beautiful in here! The colors everywhere made him feel like a penguin, so wonderful in purple and green and gold. Amane waved at someone, and Kagayaki looked over. Oh, it was Yukitokun! Silly boy wasn't wearing his mask at all. Kagayaki waved too, though more wildly, grinning. Yukito waved back, and Kagayaki looked over at the person he was talking to. The red hair looked very familiar... Cassie or Shelby, definitely. But he'd have to see their eyes--

“Oooh..look there! It's a real orchestra!”

Amane jerked him away. Not that he minded it -- he actually found himself laughing -- and he got to see the girl's eyes as they went by.

Cassie. Definitely Cassie. He'd know her eyes anywhere.

They stopped in front of someone playing a large instrument that he recognized, but couldn't remember the name of. The sound was very deep and thick. He smiled. "Jooz."

“Ooooh...It sounds so pretty..”

"Yeah..." He leaned over, nudging her head with his. "You pretty." But the thought was in the back of his mind... He looked back at Yukito and Cassie, wondering if they knew it was them. Yukito probably knew it was him -- they'd worn so much make-up for their band that they could recognize each other as well as their mothers. But did he know it was Amane? Did Cassie know?

Why did he care so much?

Sighing, he wrapped his arms around her middle from behind, setting his chin over her should so he could have room for his hat. She was comfortable to hold, no matter what she wore. There was just something about her that made her so easy to be around. He found himself humming to the sound of the music, swaying a little.

This. This right here. He wanted this forever.

~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~ * ~

Raiu Wahei -- Costume - Mask

Well, he'd never been to one of these parties before. Or any real party before. He put one hand on his pocket for the aspirin, knowing that the loud noises would definitely -- not probably -- give him a headache. But, if he was going to talk Jessica into coming, he had to at least come.

It was only fair.

But the honest fact was, he sort of wanted an excuse to be somewhere out with Jessica. To get her away from Quinn, as lovely as the little girl was. To get her away from what had happened with Clarence because, after all, it had been months. To get her somewhere different from her usual environment.

Though he felt it might bend the rules a bit, Raiu had only a half-mask on, but he was sure anyone who knew it wouldn't mind so much. After all, it was the spirit of the thing that mattered, right? He also had his sketchbook tucked underneath the layers of his costume, along with several pencils and such. This would be a perfect opportunity to draw some people and get more practice with catching crowds in his art -- something he didn't get to work on often with all the colors this event promised.

Walking in was like stepping into a sea of purple and gold, some green edging its way in. His artist's eyes flickered about, a trace of a smile on his face. This was beauty, the grins and the costumes, the decorations and the orchestra.

Oh, the people were everywhere, making all sorts of noise and yet still not being completely annoying in their own way. There was a good-sized crowd now, several couples coming in behind him.

'I might even fill up a whole book tonight.'

[mystmoonstruck]

Easy "Cat" Tanner COSTUME MASK

After Cassie Wright's invitation to the dance then being reunited with Lilith Eytinge that night on Bourbon Street, Easy had been torn between attending the event and remaining in hiding in his room, his door locked and blocked, withdrawing from this world. He feared that what had happened at nearly every Opera Populaire event would occur here: He would make a fool of himself and likely cause several emotional disasters~his own and possibly those of the two girls who had entered his life. How often had he stopped to stare at the costume he had hung on the door so that, no matter where he was in his "personal space" (as Jamil Mehmet had termed it), he could see it? Did he have the courage to don the blue velvet-and-satin garb of Romeo Capulet then walk into an unknown place where he would see not only Cassie but also Lilith, who just might be the only girl he had ever loved? Would it hurt Lilith to see him in that costume since she had been his Juliet, even if it had been for such a brief moment? With no Juliet, he could end up looking ridiculous~or so he did in his imagination, where he rarely fared well.

Easy was comfortable with the thought of dancing, as long as it was the ballroom sort. But, he couldn't count on either girl spending time with him, even Cassie, who had invited him. However, there surely would be someone who might take pity on him though he was beginning to picture himself standing in a corner, the traditional wallflower. For all he knew, his costume choice really was a disaster in the making, and he had had to resist the urge to make a frenzied shopping trip for something amazing.

Lilith: His heart had surged at the sudden thought of her. After their encounter, he had found it almost impossible to focus on anything, even the violin, but especially school, where he spent his time staring into space or out any available window. He knew he had entered with a bad attitude, resenting being sent back to school, especially after his progress in Paris. If New Orleans had done one thing for him it was appreciating what he had had in Paris. Yet, if he had stayed, he never would have seen Lily again, so that should make it all worthwhile, shouldn't it~if they could be together from time to time, just to talk? That would be enough, wouldn't it? He could pretend.

At that moment, the limo pulled to a stop, snapping him out of his thoughts, and he had time to set the cat mask in place before the chauffeur opened the door for him. He exited almost meekly, his costume rather subdued when compared to most of the finery others were wearing. Would he see Lilith here, he wondered again, and how would she respond to seeing him like this?


Golden Hunt MASK

When Golden had learned of the annual Mardi Gras Debutante Club Ball, he had contacted a friend of a friend to see if it was possible to get an invitation. The next step had been to assemble a costume, and he wondered just how big a step to take while knowing what he was swayed toward: Cupid. It had seemed a fine idea when he had stood in front of that array of mirrors, being fitted and the wings settled in place. The one-shouldered toga was dazzlingly white. His tan had faded enough that the contrast wasn't too startling, at least to his practiced eye. His friends had dusted him with gold powder so that he shimmered with every movement. On his feet were golden sandals, the strips crisscrossing before being fastened at the knee. At last came the wings, which were going to be a bit of a problem during transportation. But~Boy!~did they look cool! Once the tiny motor was stashed securely then activated, the wings came to life, moving gently as with his breathing. Oops! There was one more touch he realized as he was handed the mask, a bronze creation with an array of aqua aura crystals that had been cut into teardrop-shape. Tilting his head, he tested the effect, smiling as the crystals, which echoed the color of his eyes, danced and shimmered.

Now, as Golden exited from his friend's van and they helped with last-last-minute adjustments, he laughingly charged them with silence over the position he had been required to take in order to get to the party in one piece. They promised to blackmail him at the earliest opportunity then sent him on his way, assuring him that he had never looked bigger and goofier.

Confronted by an array of beautifully costumed people, Golden was beginning to feel more like a Greek giraffe (make that Roman but lose the alliteration), feeling as if the wings and mask had caused him to sprout well beyond his 6'2" height. He was TOO tall, TOO scantily clad, and TOO sparkly to be missed. For good (or bad) measure, he likely didn't know anyone here.

"Just what have you gotten yourself into?" he muttered, teeth clenched as he smiled movie star-like, entering the building and wondering where the nearest food was. At least among the purple, gold and green, he might seem a little less in-your-face. Now, what table had he been reserved a seat at? He'd better prepare himself for those "My! How you've grown!" and "You look just like your father!" and "The last time I saw you, you were this (hand held varying distances from floor) high!"

Repeated calls of "Woohoo! caught his attention, and he saw several society matrons waving at him frantically.

Teeth clenched in that dazzling smile of his, he muttered once more: "Here we go!"

OOC: Amazingly, I couldn't find a picture of the right toga though I looked for quite a while. Here's the picture that inspired Golden's costume choice at TPO: i5.photobucket.com/albums/y182/remyy/pc.jpg BIC:

[The Phantom of Paris]

Cassandra "Cassie" Wright

She was tempted to turn around and spend the rest of the evening hiding herself away in her bedroom when she finally spotted a familiar face--Yukito, hanging around by the door and looking generally uncomfortable to be there. A small but relieved smile crossed her face as she walked towards him, meeting his eyes as she watched him slip his mask back on his face. Trying to hide from me? You'd better not. I'll tell Erin on you. Her eyes fell to his costume, a mass of frills and red velvet, and she bit back a laugh. This isn't the French Revolution...

"He's here, the Phantom of the Opera," she said by way of greeting, earning a real smile from him. “Bravi,” he replied, making Cassie chuckle in response. “Though I always thought a Japanese phantom didn't make sense. Since he was supposed to be French..”

Cassie gave a shrug as Yukito attempted to stuff his hands into his pockets before realizing with a start that his costume didn't have any. "I don't think Shelby really cared. She knew what she wanted, and she knew you would be the best."

Still apparently having trouble figuring out what to do with his hands, Yukito settled for crossing the over his chest as his eyes fell to her light blue dress. “You look beautiful tonight.”

Cassie sent him a grateful smile at that. She liked the relationship she had with Yukito--they'd been through so much together that they could say things like that to each other without having to read too much into it. Even though they'd kissed. Even though each had admitted certain things to the other one that they hadn't felt comfortable sharing with their significant others. And because of all that, Cassie knew that Yukito meant what he said. She knew that she could be completely honest with Yukito--that she could tell him anything and not be judged--and that he could do the same with her. And I love that about us, even though I don't know how to show it. "Thank you," she said earnestly.

That familiar smirk lit up his face again. “But to be honest, I don't envy you. I can't imagine having to wear a dress like that. So I have no complaints about my own outfit.”

Cassie laughed a bit, rolling her eyes behind her mask. "It's not as bad as it seems, actually. it's not like I can't breathe or anything. I actually feel worse for you in all that heavy velvet stuff..."

“But I have to add that Erin picked it out, not me. It is kind of a 'living vicariously through you' moment.”

"Yeah, how is she?" Cassie asked, absently playing with the folds of fabric on her dress. "Still coughing up a lung over there, or is she starting to feel better?"

There was a pause as Yukito waved at the couple that Cassie had noticed earlier, and, after a moment of hesitation, Cassie lifted her hand in a tiny wave of her own. "Is that Kagayaki and Amane?" she asked, lowering her voice. "I thought I might have recognized them--at least, recognized Kagayaki--but...you know...masks...Maybe it's not actually them."

“Are you with someone, or are you also solo tonight?” Yukito asked, turning his attention back to her.

Cassie smiled, shaking her head. "No, this Cinderella is going without a Prince Charming tonight," she told him, lifting the hem of her gown a little as she spoke to show off the clear plastic shoes she was wearing--a near perfect representation of the famous glass slippers, albeit a lot more comfortable than the 'real' ones probably had been. "I'm surprised you haven't heard about the Great Dating Embargo of 2010/2011. Shelby, lovebird extraordinaire, has forbidden me to see anybody romantically for a while since I'm such a failure in relationships or something, and I'm humoring her and going along because..." she paused, considering. "I don't really know why. Because it's less complicated being single. And I can sort of see her point, I guess."

She shook her head again. "So yeah. I'm alone too. What do you say, Mozart?" she asked, remembering what he had said about his chosen costume on formspring earlier. "Feel like hanging out with a lonely Cinderella for a bit so we don't get so bored that we're forced to take drastic measures and start throwing things or something?"

[Elda Forever]

Amane Ourmura

One of the things she loved about Kagayaki was that she didn't make her feel awkward or stupid when she got excited about the silliest things – he was usually right along with her, mouth agape mirroring her expression of awe. Such as when they walked into the party, looking all around and gasping and letting out “Oooh”s and “Aaah”s at the décor and the equally colorful patrons.

After giving Yukito a wave, which he returned, making her smile, Amane pulled Kagayaki over to the orchestra, practically giddy just from the sight of the polished instruments alone. She looked to Kagayaki for his smile of approval, and a quiet, "Jooz."

“Ooooh...It sounds so pretty..”

"Yeah..." He leaned over, nudging her head with his. "You pretty." She let out a little squeak, reaching over to lay another little kiss on his cheek. But he seemed distracted, glancing over at Yukito again and again. Kagayaki, what's wrong? As though he felt her concern, he gave a sigh and went to wrap her around her middle from behind, his chin resting on her shoulder. Amane's eyes widened at this, something about the gesture comforting all her fears and making her heart speed up to ten times its usual pace. He started to sway her back and forth a little, humming along to the music he didn't know, and Amane found herself grinning from ear to ear. You are the sweetest guy alive, Kagayaki! I want to make you as happy as I am right now...I want to stay right here forever..

She gave forever a shot, waiting for a long piece of music to end before turning around to nestle into his neck with her nose, one hand resting on his cheek. She pulled him closer to her and gave him a little kiss, hesitating in the moment before actually making contact, then giving a little giggle. “Do you wanna go say hi to Yukito with me? He's probably lonely without Erin and he might like us to say hello.” She took hold of his hand, reluctantly pulling it from her waist but nonetheless leading him over to where Yukito was talking to a redheaded lady. She immediately started to flush, still not comfortable around Yukito, even after all this time. Once there, she stopped, glad to be holding Kagayaki's hand. “Hey, Yukito..” she started shyly, her eyes not wanting to hold still. “I like your costume!”

~~

Yukito Maki

"He's here, the Phantom of the Opera," Cassie said by way of hello, earning a smile from Yukito as they both remembered their time working together on the eventful, if not entirely successful, film version of Phantom of the Opera for her sister's school project.

“Bravi,” he replied, making Cassie chuckle in response. “Though I always thought a Japanese phantom didn't make sense. Since he was supposed to be French..”

Cassie just gave a shrug at that, "I don't think Shelby really cared. She knew what she wanted, and she knew you would be the best."

It was his turn to shrug in response at that. He'd had fun with it, but accuracy was the main thing for him. Not sure how to respond to her compliment he changed the subject, looking at her dress and turning the conversation to their costumes, complimenting hers and stating quite straightforwardly that he didn't envy her wearing it. “But I have to add that Erin picked it out, not me. It is kind of a 'living vicariously through you' moment.”

"Yeah, how is she?" Cassie asked, absently playing with the folds of fabric on her dress. It was such a pretty blue, light and contrasting with her hair and skin in a complimentary way. Yukito couldn't resist a sigh, wishing that he could have seen Erin in a pretty costume of her own tonight. He liked purple on her best... "Still coughing up a lung over there, or is she starting to feel better?"

“I think she has an extra half dozen lungs in there, because she's coughed out so many. Doesn't help that she doesn't do what I tell her to do, and rest her voice a bit.” He smirked, thinking of their spats of the afternoon. “But luckily, she's on the mend. Not enough to let her come, but enough to let me consider it for one tantalizing moment, much to Erin's chagrin.”

Nearby, a couple wandered past, the two giving Yukito a wave that he returned hesitantly. Cassie, seeing them as well, returned the gesture, then turning to him. "Is that Kagayaki and Amane?" she asked, lowering her voice. "I thought I might have recognized them--at least, recognized Kagayaki--but...you know...masks...Maybe it's not actually them."

Yukito followed the two with his eyes. The girl was dragging the boy across the room, much to the boy's happiness. He let out a laugh, and Yukito nodded. He'd know Kagayaki anywhere. “Definitely Kagayaki. And if it is, that's probably Amane. They've been glued to each other the last few weeks.” He felt his lips tug towards a hint of a smile as he watched them stare aghast at the musicians, as though such a thing were an unimaginable feat. Then Kagayaki took hold of his girlfriend and wrapped his arm around her. He turned back to Cassie, the smile vanishing but the amusement still gleaming in his eyes. “Are you with someone, or are you also solo tonight?” Yukito asked, turning his attention back to her.

Cassie smiled, shaking her head. "No, this Cinderella is going without a Prince Charming tonight," she lifted the edge of her skirt to show off the clear shoes on her feet – Yukito was a little surprised, not sure he'd ever looked down at her bare feet before. "I'm surprised you haven't heard about the Great Dating Embargo of 2010/2011. Shelby, lovebird extraordinaire, has forbidden me to see anybody romantically for a while since I'm such a failure in relationships or something, and I'm humoring her and going along because..." she paused, considering. "I don't really know why. Because it's less complicated being single. And I can sort of see her point, I guess."

To this he didn't respond, just watching her and giving no comment or opinion on this front for the time being. After a moment, she shook her head and continued, "So yeah. I'm alone too. What do you say, Mozart? Feel like hanging out with a lonely Cinderella for a bit so we don't get so bored that we're forced to take drastic measures and start throwing things or something?"

Again, he paused, contemplating. The last time he'd danced with another girl at a party, Erin had screamed in his face and ended up breaking up with him. That was years ago, by now, but it still made him hesitate. Logic won out, though, telling him that even if she was here, Erin wouldn't be upset about him hanging out with her dateless best friend for awhile. He gave a nod, and a little smile, “Sure, why not?” He offered her his arm, giving a little bow, “Would you care to dance to pass the time?” His mouth twitched, and he couldn't resist adding, “It's not exactly your Lady Gaga, but...”

Just then, Amane and Kagayaki appeared, and Yukito halted, still with Cassie at his arm. He hadn't expected them to come over, and wasn't sure how to react. Amane flushed, holding onto Kagayaki's hand like an anchor. “Hey, Yukito..” she started shyly, “I like your costume!”

“Thank you,” he replied, giving Kagayaki a little nod of his head of acknowledgment. “Are you one of the debutantes tonight, Amane? Pardon me saying so, but...Anata no doresu wa kawaiidesu. You look happier now.“

~~



Lilith Eytinge ~ Mask - Outfit

She triple checked her mask to ensure it was secured, stepping out of Alex's car and starting toward the front entrance. It always felt so sneaky, acting as though she wasn't interested when Cassie had gone on about the masquerade party for Mardi Gras, while all the time she had been planning on going, too. But it felt different, more logical, for her to go herself. To keep her memories self-contained. It was getting harder, after Cat's visit. She'd wanted more than anything to tell Cassie about him, to explain why she felt so off, to talk to her about all the conflicted feelings with the girl. She had once been able to do that. She'd had friends in Paris that she could confide in, but it was so much harder here. Because here, eventually, Cat would have to come up. And as beautiful and loving a subject as it was, it was just as much painful and heart-wrenching. There wasn't a word to describe her feelings for Cat except...complicated.

And complicated it was, and going to these kinds of parties was another complicated piece of her. If she tried hard enough, she could forget that she was in the United States and away from Cat, and instead believe he would be back at her side at any moment, that she was in Paris, and happy.

She wasn't even sure how Alex had convinced her enough to go to the party with him. It was usually such a solitary thing she did, at least these days.

'I'm coming, Cat. Will you meet me there?' She'd arrived at parties separately from Cat before. Images of ice sculptures and gondolas appeared before her. Quickly followed were warm, accented voices and chilly labyrinths, and the smell of Cat's skin near her.

She shook herself again. It was dangerous to think too deeply on these things. Instead, she entered the main party, pausing at the doorway to look around appreciatively at the decorations and the musicians playing. There were plenty of people to mingle with, here. She smiled softly, picking out costumes she could identify, and costumes she couldn't. Her heart jolted a little when she spotted Cassie, standing near a few people and mingling. She turned away, finding Alex right at her side and feeling foolish for reacting. You're so stupid! she scolded herself, You're hiding from one of your friends, at a party with plenty of people! Or at least...that will, once everyone arrives.. But she couldn't get the courage to wander right past Cassie, instead sending Alex a nervous smile. “It's pretty,” she mumbled quietly. “I like masquerade parties..”

[More than Music]

Kagayaki Aidou

“Ooooh...It sounds so pretty..”

"Yeah..." He leaned over, nudging her head with his. "You pretty." Her excited little squeak and kiss made him smile, but he couldn't help looking back at Yukito and Cassie, wondering if they knew... Not knowing what else to do, he moved closer to the comforting warmth of Amane, hugging her from behind, his chin fitting just right on her shoulder. He slowly started to hum, finding himself swaying. It wasn't all that impressive, since he didn't know the tune and he didn't sound too good singing to start with, but she didn't seem to mind.

They were there for a while before Amane turned around. Her little cuddles made his skin feel hot, in a good way. Her little kisses were so beautiful... Her giggle made him open his eyes again, smiling as he leaned over to kiss her cheek sideways again.

“Do you wanna go say hi to Yukito with me? He's probably lonely without Erin and he might like us to say hello.”

He opened his mouth, looking over at Cassie and Yukito. She didn't know that was Cassie. Of course she didn't. She didn't know--

Kagayaki found himself being tugged towards them anyway. "A-Amane..." But he was too quiet and too slow, because they were already over there. Yukito looked like he was leading Cassie off some place, and Kagayaki saw Amane blush, finding himself doing the same.

“Hey, Yukito... I like your costume!” she said, always honest and always cheerful.

Grinning again, he held her hand a little tighter. 'Make me strong, okay?'

“Thank you,” Yukito said, sending Kagayaki a nod that he returned out of habit. “Are you one of the debutantes tonight, Amane? Pardon me saying so, but... Anata no doresu wa kawaii desu. You look happier now.“

Kagayaki nodded. "Yeah, does!" he said, before his eyes fell back on Cassie.

'...Oh no. She understands the Japanese. Does Yukito know she understands?'

He took a half-step back, hunching his shoulders just a little and looking over at Amane with a nervous smile. "Happy-happy?" he said, laughing though he knew he sounded unsure. He half-looked back at Cassie. "You too, Cassie. P-pretty dress. Blue... pretty on you." Somehow, he felt like every word he said was stepping over some sort of line, so he looked at Yukito again. "Erin-chan bit better, yah?"

'Yes-yes, talk about Erin. That will make it easier.'

[The Phantom of Paris]

Cassandra "Cassie" Wright

"Yeah, how is she?" Cassie asked after Yukito mentioned Erin, remembering how disappointed Erin had been to have to miss the party. Is it sad that I sort of envy her? "Still coughing up a lung over there, or is she starting to feel better?"

"I think she has an extra half dozen lungs in there, because she's coughed out so many," Yukito replied. "Doesn't help that she doesn't do what I tell her to do, and rest her voice a bit. But luckily, she's on the mend. Not enough to let her come, but enough to let me consider it for one tantalizing moment, much to Erin's chagrin.”

"Aww, poor thing," Cassie said, shaking her head. "I'm glad she's getting better though. Give her an extra-big hug from me when you get home, okay?" A flash of white out of the corner of her eye made Cassie turn her head, and she caught sight of the couple from earlier, looking delighted to be a part of the crowd. The girl in particular could barely contain her excitement, an ecstatic vision in white. Her date looked eerily familiar, and Cassie squinted to get a better look at the eyes behind the masks. "Is that Kagayaki and Amane?" she asked, lowering her voice as she ventured a guess. I didn't know they were coming... "I thought I might have recognized them--at least, recognized Kagayaki--but...you know...masks...Maybe it's not actually them," she trailed off lamely.

Yukito followed her gaze, his eyes coming to rest on the taller figure of the two before letting out a laugh. “Definitely Kagayaki. And if it is, that's probably Amane. They've been glued to each other the last few weeks.”

Cassie frowned, annoyed to have been kept out of the loop for so long. "Have they?" She watched as Kagayaki put an arm around his enthusiastic, boundary-challenged girlfriend, and was so overcome with frustration she had to turn away. Are you just too smitten to see what it is you're getting into here?

“Are you with someone, or are you also solo tonight?”

The simple question was enough to bring the smile back to Cassie's face as she tried to push aside the emotions threatening to break loose in her mind. "No, this Cinderella is going without a Prince Charming tonight," she said before launching into an awkward explanation of Shelby's dating ban, realizing her mistake in telling Yukito as she spoke but finding no way to take the words back. You sound like an idiot. Now he's gonna go home and tell Erin that I've gone crazy with loneliness or something, and she'll freak out...shut up, Cassie!

She shook her head, as if that alone would get rid of all the anger and insecurities and, yes, loneliness. "So yeah. I'm alone too. What do you say, Mozart? Feel like hanging out with a lonely Cinderella for a bit so we don't get so bored that we're forced to take drastic measures and start throwing things or something?"

Yukito paused, and for a second Cassie thought that he was going to refuse, that she'd be forced to find someone else to keep her company at this already-tedious party. Why? Why would you say no to something like that? We're friends. Everybody knows that, and we don't have feelings for each other no matter what everybody else seems to think. We're just friends. Closer than friends, actually. We're family now. So why wouldn't he want to be seen here with me? Is he thinking about the kiss too, or something? Is the masquerade bringing it all back?

More importantly...do I want him to be thinking about the kiss? Oh my God! What's wrong with me? Am I that desperate that I want my best friend's fiance to be thinking about a mistake we made months ago and haven't spoken of since? God, what am I doing here?

Finally, though, he nodded, smiling slightly. “Sure, why not?” He offered her his arm, giving a little bow as Cassie laughed. “Would you care to dance to pass the time? It's not exactly your Lady Gaga, but...”

Cassie laughed, taking his arm. "Don't call my name, don't call my name, Yukito..." she sang, just to tease him.

Before they got the chance to actually go out onto the dance floor, however, Amane and Kagayaki approached them. Amane blushed vividly under her mask, perhaps overwhelmed by the thought of talking with Yukito. Why do you do that? she asked Kagayaki in her head. Why do you go for girls who are so clearly in love with someone else? Yumi, Amane...I wasn't, but I'm different...why don't you ever try and learn from your mistakes?

Why don't you? a voice in her head asked her coldly.

“Hey, Yukito... I like your costume!”

“Thank you. Are you one of the debutantes tonight, Amane?" Um, I don't think so...I would know if she was. "Pardon me saying so, but... Anata no doresu wa kawaii desu." Cassie shot Yukito a suspicious glance, wondering if he knew that she knew Japanese now. Why would you switch languages like that unless you didn't want me to understand what you're saying?

"You look happier now.“ All right, there was the translation, albeit unneeded. Cassie took a quiet deep breath, trying to calm herself down before she did something she would regret.

"Yeah, does!" Kagayaki agreed. Cassie gave a fake smile and a tiny nod, wanting to run away and beat her fists against a wall. There's a white elephant in the room here, people, and I appear to be the only one willing to acknowledge it. This is messed up.

Happy-happy?" Kagayaki added before his gaze fell to Cassie almost as an afterthought. She narrowed her eyes, thankful for the elaborate mask that hid her features. "You too, Cassie. P-pretty dress. Blue... pretty on you."

She gave another plastic smile. "Thank you. You and Amane look nice too," she said, ignoring Amane herself pointedly.

"Erin-chan bit better, yah?"

Cassie looked up at Yukito for a second before giving a nod. "I think he said that she was. I haven't talked to her in a few days."

[mystmoonstruck]

Golden Hunt

Life at the moment was not a Hollywood movie moment unless it was a comedy. Feeling more towering than usual, and very bare, the bewinged Golden perched precariously on a chair, politely listening to the polite chatter of well-bred matrons extolling the charms of debutantes and asking him about his present status, knowing very well that he was unmarried. Oh! They all had granddaughters he should meet! In between words, he ate steadily since it was decided that he was a "growing boy" who needed a lot of sustenance, which included each lady's favorite delicacy. Not that Golden minded... However, he was reaching fullness level and intended to stop before that considering he wanted to mix and mingle.

"Ladies," he began, scootching his chair back enough to allow him to stand, at which he had this image of his bronze mask punching a hole in the ceiling, he having grown and grown and grown till he was a Gulliver among these lady-Lilliputians. OK. So. Maybe that was exaggerating~a little. "I must excuse myself as I am certain there is at least one fair maiden awaiting an encounter with Cupid. Yes, I will tell my parents and grandparents and my sisters and their families that you send your greetings." He smiled dazzlingly, setting off the expected coos, then made his departure. Once out of their sight, he paused to make sure that the toga was in place, glancing downward and wondering, yet again, if the mid-thigh length was too scandalous though noting that he really did have good legs. Yes, Golden, you are a work of art. He snorted rather loudly and decided to cover the odd noise by craning his head to the right to double-and triple-check the shoulder drapery, realizing that he had used so much body glue that he might end up sleeping in the costume tonight~sans wings of course unless he was a tummy sleeper, which he wasn't. Taking a deep breath then exhaling slowly, he began studying the partygoers, Cupid seeking his Psyche.

Then, a glimpse of coppery hair and a gown of nearly-aqua aura hue captured his attention, and he smiled at the lovely sight. However, when he realized that she was with someone, his smile faded just a little, echoing his disappointment. It seemed he must keep looking though he found himself drawn in the direction of the vision in pastel blue.

OOC: I wasn't sure who was going to meet Golden first, so I'll leave this up in the air for now. I could have him spot Lilith, but isn't she meeting someone? Amane has her escort, so I wasn't certain about when she and Golden might meet again. BIC:


Easy "Cat" Tanner

Once inside the door, Easy had found his way to a wall and, true to his nature, had sort of plastered himself against it, tawny eyes wide and registering only a blur of pastels and colorful costumes. In contrast, Romeo's garb seemed so sedate, but, if he was going to be so cautious, perhaps it had been the best choice. He pictured what it might have been like if he had worn his fallen angel costume though the black wings would have made moving around extremely difficult. However, he had seen a very tall, very tanned, very blonde young man wander through in what he knew was a toga. He found himself puzzling over the mixture of a toga and white wings and supposed he was an angel though angels generally wore robes, at least in his movie-watching experience.

What if Cassie hadn't been able to attend? What if he never saw her? What if no one paid attention to a drably-dressed kid in a stupid cat mask? Emitting a fussy little sound, he moved along the wall. Or, perhaps slunk was a more descriptive word. He saw people carrying drinks and decided that that was what he needed. He had been sneaking drinks at home, trusting that Rafe Chancery wouldn't notice the dropping levels. If he did... Easy shivered at the imagined violence though a tight smile formed on the expressive mouth. So, growing less cautious, he stepped into the throng and began his search for the inevitable beverage bar, promising that he would try to drink only Coke and wondering why he hadn't brought his flask of Pertsovka, the Russian liquor he had been introduced to by the fiery, exciting Rozaliya Donkova. A strong drink sounded so tempting about now.

Coke, he reminded himself. Stick with the safe stuff. Sighing, he tried to promise that he wouldn't take refuge in liquor.

[Elda Forever]

Amane Ourmura

“Hey, Yukito... I like your costume!” she greeted. She did like it, and it made Yukito look out of time. She liked the smiles on his face best, though, instead of the sullen quiet in the corner, and she was glad he was on his way out to the dance floor.

“Thank you. Are you one of the debutantes tonight, Amane?" She flushed, shaking her head no. She could pretend, though. Especially with Kagayaki here to 'escort' her. The word itself made her want to giggle again, as she felt him tighten his hold on her hand possessively. You can be so sweet, Yukito. I wonder if you taught it to Kagayaki, or if he taught it to you... "Pardon me saying so, but...Anata no doresu wa kawaii desu."

She wasn't positive about what exactly he had said, but she knew the word 'kawaii' enough to give a deep blush and a little bow of her head, murmuring, “Arigatou gozaimasu!”

"You look happier now.“ he commented, in that straightforward way. She let out a giggle, leaning closer to Kagayaki's chest to use him as a support, all the while trying to contain her giddiness. It isn't right to be this deliriously happy. It must be wrong. It feels too good.

“I am, thank you..” she told him. Amane couldn't put into words how glad she was that Yukito didn't hate her, like she thought he would. She wasn't sure how she knew that, but she did. He doesn't hate me. He's happy for us, or at least for Kagayaki. They've been through so much together. She entwined Kagayaki's fingers in her own, a neat little web of fingers.

"Yeah, does!" Kagayaki agreed, his voice in her ear and making her smile. The pretty red-head next to Yukito gave a nod and a tight-lipped smile, making Amane look toward her in confusion.

“Happy-happy?" Kagayaki added, before he looked at the girl. She was wearing a light-blue dress, and Amane was reminded of a beautiful Ice Queen, a cold gaze sent their way. Her questions were answered when Kagayaki said, "You too, Cassie. P-pretty dress. Blue... pretty on you."

Oh! It's Cassie! Oh...

"Thank you. You and Amane look nice too," Cassie stated. Amane watched her curiously, feeling such a cold vibe from the girl that she shivered.

“You're beautiful,” she breathed, then cursing herself for slipping. She turned toward Kagayaki for some direction.

"Erin-chan bit better, yah?" Ooh! That's right! Erin-chan!

She looked to Yukito with a smile hopeful for good news, but Cassie responded first, "I think he said that she was. I haven't talked to her in a few days."

Amane felt the desire to shiver again, intimidated by Cassie's anger. She looked between the trio for a moment, then fumbled for words. She doesn't want me here...but I don't want Kagayaki to have to avoid Yukito because of me..this is so difficult.

“I'm glad she feels a bit better,” she began, not meeting anyone's eyes as she glanced in Kagayaki's general direction, “Um..I think I saw some of my friends from school when we came in, so I'm going to go say hi, okay? I'll be back in a few minutes...” She reached up to kiss him, about to decide against it, but gave him a peck on the cheek anyways, squeezing his hand before releasing it to move away.

After walking a few feet away into the crowd as though she had a predetermined destination, Amane's smile faded. She really hadn't seen anyone she knew. The kids at school wouldn't be coming. Now what was she to do? Just as she was about to find a bathroom and just hide out there until they were done talking like the friends they were, Amane saw a savior in the form of a six-foot-plus Cupid. She let out a laugh, unable to contain her amusement at the familiar face, still blown away by how pretty Golden was. She stepped up to him, her hands clasped behind her back in a demure pose, and said, “Hello, Golden! You look great!” She glanced around, “Are you with someone tonight?”

Please, don't be. I need some company right now!

~~~~

Yukito Maki

At her invitation that they keep each other company that night, Yukito initially hesitated. It would not be good to challenge Erin's trust again. But he had to believe that getting engaged to the girl would be plenty of trust for her. She and everyone else should know by now that such an act was taken anything but lightly by him. After a moment, he offered Cassie his arm, smiling and saying, “Sure, why not?” He gave a bow, and Cassie laughed at the action. “Would you care to dance to pass the time? It's not exactly your Lady Gaga, but...” He smirked, glad to have earned a laugh from her as she took his arm.

"Don't call my name, don't call my name, Yukito..." she sang, just to tease him.

“Don't make me strangle you,” he teased under his breath, but smiling the whole time. They were interrupted then, by Aidousan and Amane coming up to them. Yukito greeted them cordially, then turned to Amane and told her that her dress was cute in Japanese. She seemed to enjoy that, and he was glad she understood it. When Aidousan turned to compliment Cassie on her dress, though, she gave a tight-lipped smile and said, "Thank you. You and Amane look nice too."

Yukito looked at Cassie in confusion, then decided not to get into it. Seeing your ex with someone knew was always complicated. And he'd pretty much promised Erin no drama...at least not without her.

"Erin-chan bit better, yah?"

Yukito nodded, as Cassie glanced at him then elaborated, "I think he said that she was. I haven't talked to her in a few days."

“I'm glad she feels a bit better,” Amane began, not meeting anyone's eyes as she glanced in Kagayaki's general direction, “Um..I think I saw some of my friends from school when we came in, so I'm going to go say hi, okay? I'll be back in a few minutes...” She gave Aidousan a quick peck on the cheek, then vanished into the crowd. Yukito looked at Cassie again, trying to gauge her reaction.

In a low voice, he leaned toward her and asked, “Are you okay, Cass?”

[mystmoonstruck]

Golden Hunt

About the time Golden was wondering if he was going to encounter a "singlet", he watched as a diminutive girl all in white approached, seeming to almost float. He was truly shocked to hear his name from her lips but instantly recognized her as the delightful girl he had met at Baskin-Robbins~Amane, to whom he had introduced coffee of the slushy kind aka the venerated Cappuccino Blast

“Hello, Golden! You look great!” Then, she looked around before asking, “Are you with someone tonight?”

Mismicking her pose, his expression quite serious, he answered, "Yes, I am, Amane." He followed with a moment of silence before adding, "With you I hope!" The smile was sparkling mischief as he looked down at the lovely girl in white. "I hope you'll save a dance for me sometime tonight~at least one." Playfully, he went into a ballroom dance pose and began pantomiming a waltz, swaying in place. "I have been told that I am an excellent dancer," he assured her, chuckling at his own antics, "nary a broken toe on my record~so far." Then, it was his turn to look around. "And, who is escorting you to this grand event, Miss Amane?"

[The Phantom of Paris]

OOC: I don't know if this is out of order or not...>.< But MtM said I could post. So...here it is! BIC:

Cassandra "Cassie" Wright

Everything had been going fine until they had shown up. They were about to dance, teasing each other like brother and sister just the way Cassie liked. She had just started to allow herself to think that the night wasn't going to be a total disaster after all when Kagayaki and Amane had cornered them, sucking them into awkward conversation and making Cassie more uncomfortable by the minute. She wanted more than ever to run away, to leave this twisted game behind her, but she was trapped there--trapped in her Cinderella dress, trapped behind her mask, trapped in the plans she had made for herself. She had promised to stay. She had promised to have a good time. Talking to Amane, having to be nice to that girl...this had not been one of her promises, nor one of her plans.

"You look happier now,“ Yukito told Amane bluntly. Cassie's eyes narrowed as the smaller girl dissolved into giggles, leaning up against Kagayaki as if she was afraid that she would fall to the floor without him there. Happier? Maybe. Psychotic? Absolutely. I don't get why we're all just pretending everything's okay here--pretending that you didn't do all the horrible things that you did. I don't get why Yukito's being nice to you, I don't get why everyone except me seems to have forgiven you...and I certainly don't see what Kagayaki sees in you. Aside from the fact that you both cling. Maybe he finds that comforting. I find it scary.

“I am, thank you..” Amane replied, lacing her fingers with Kagayaki's, although whether it was to claim him as her own or to remind herself that someone in this crazy world actually loved her Cassie didn't know. She pointedly looked away, trying to hide the anger that was threatening to burst out at any moment. She couldn't lose it, not now. Not after she'd come so far in healing, not after she'd tried to hard to get over him. She couldn't admit that, after all this time, all of her hard work hadn't meant anything at all. She couldn't. So she put her emotions aside, hiding them behind a feathered mask and a poker face, her anger turning to cool indifference as she struggled to maintain control. This was the way it had to be. If she lost it, then Amane would have won, right? And all the rest of them--her friends, her sister, the people on formspring--they would be proven right.

"Yeah, does! Happy-happy? You too, Cassie. P-pretty dress. Blue... pretty on you." The tone in Kagayaki's voice reflected the awkwardness all of them seemed to be feeling. "Thank you. You and Amane look nice too," she said simply.

Amane whispered something then, her hushed words sounding suspiciously like, “You're beautiful.” Cassie turned her gaze on her, her chilly demeanor lifting slightly at the simple compliment. It sounded sincere enough, almost intimidated. But even so, she couldn't find it in her to warm up towards Amane. Not after all the history they all had, not after what she'd done.

"Erin-chan bit better, yah?" Kagayaki asked, apparently desperate to relieve the tension. Yukito gave a nod as Cassie gave a brief explanation, her tone aloof as ever. "I think he said that she was. I haven't talked to her in a few days." Because, you know, she's only my best friend. Why would she alert me to major happenings in her life like that? She's clearly too busy with her fiance. Not that I should be surprised. I'm sure I'd be the same way. We're going in different directions now and I just have to accept that, right? She's getting married. I'm going to college. That's just the way it's going to be, and we can't ever go back to that time when we were all in high school and together and happy again.

“I'm glad she feels a bit better,” Amane said, steadfastly avoiding all of their gazes. “Um..I think I saw some of my friends from school when we came in, so I'm going to go say hi, okay? I'll be back in a few minutes...” Cassie raised one eyebrow behind the mask as she watched Amane dither about for a minute, looking up at Kagayaki as if deciding what to do next. What, are you waiting for permission to leave or something? Or... Cassie stiffened as Amane leaned up to kiss Kagayaki on the cheek, but managed to keep herself from trembling with anger. "It was nice talking to you," she said distantly as the other girl disappeared into the throng of people.

She felt Yukito's eyes on her, but didn't meet his gaze until he leaned towards her. “Are you okay, Cass?” he asked, sounding almost concerned.

She stared at him, her eyes flashing. "No, I'm not," she hissed. "What are you doing? Why are you just standing there talking to her like everything's okay? How can you just forgive her for everything she put you through--everything she put Erin through? I don't get it, Yukito! I just don't!"