Scene #5709: Charm Lord's Invitational

Owner	Pose
Asellus	Invitations were sent out across the Multiverse to various people. The criteria for who was selected is unclear, ranging from CEOs to Faction leaders to lone Elites, small group leaders, and relative unknowns. They have been permitted to bring a reasonal number of additional attendees, so even those who did not receive an invitation have cause to be here. And where is 'here'? Facinaturu, a Region in the newly-unified area many have taken to calling 'Region Space'. Those who accepted the invitation have been magically carried by strange carriages pulled by not-quite-natural horses through some sort of tunnel, which has led them in turn to the front gates of a massive castle that stretches up and up, winding and weaving into numerous towers and pathways, like the limbs of a tree, or like some huge, bizarre stone flower. The gates are presently open, but white-haired men in fantasy-styled armor stand on either side, keeping an eye out for trouble makers. They, of course, are checking for invitations. The area is dark and gloomy, behind them, down a twisting path to some sort of... village. But even though there is light up ahead, a purple glow coming from magical light fixtures, it doesn't necessarily seem like the atmosphere is what one might call 'better' further within. This is a Region of eternal night, of swirling clouds practically crackling with magic in the sky, and of mystical beings who dwell in darkness. But they have been allowed entry, at least for now. Though many of those gathered may be having second thoughts, many others have determined to go ahead, for whatever reason, be it ego, courage, desperation, foolishness, apathy, curiosity, duty, or something else.
Rarity	You have strange magic carriages being pulled by unnatural horses. Which might cause some confusion when one said magical horse drawn carriage stops and is disembarked by two more equines. But the suspicious and perplexed looks Rarity is quick to dispell by producing an invitation and holding it up with her telekinesis for the guards to inspect while explaining that the smaller unicorn accompanying her is her sister. Likely invited because she is a successful fashionista, businesswoman, and has a few footholds in her world's upper society. Or because of her career as an Elite and protector, even if that has taken a backseat to her business ventures in recent times. Or just because, being a unicorn, she is a prime example of magic and mystical things (and a lot more likely to come without extensive prodding than Equestria's resident magical prodgeny). Or at least that is Rarity's assumption, as the invitation doesn't indicate. But she is hardly one to turn down the oppritunity to potentially hobknob with influential individuals of a newly unified world! Once cleared by the guards and past the gates Rarity pauses to smooth out her sister's dress and make sure her hairbow is properly position. "Now be on your best behavoir Sweetie dear. We want to make a good first impression~" Sweetie Belle scrunchs her muzzle cutely at the fussing. "Yes Rarity. I won't let you down~." .. Though as soon as Rarity looks away to see where they are suppose to proceed to next, Sweetie Belle gives the bow a tug back to the side of her head, where it's more comfortable and looks less like she's trying to ape Applebloom's style.
Ryu	Ryu sat in the carriage, calmly staring down at the invitation during the entire trip. He would occasionally blow his hair out of his eyes. His displeasure was clear in the almost constant frown he had toward the invitation. Evidently his curiosity was stronger than his disdain for the rich and powerful. Ryu climbs out of the carriage and steps up to the guards, and holds up the invitation to them, with it held between two fingers for them to retrieve it. He waits for them to check it and simply steps inside, taking a surly posture with his hands in his pockets as he advances further into the building. He doesn't pause to appreciate the architecture or the eternal night... he just wants to see what the big deal is.
Chevalier	Naturally an invitation made its way to the Wardens. While not exactly a political group, the Wardens are one world's most powerful and influential superhero organization. They're the ones that tend to be obvious in sticking their noses in other people's business. They are, in short, political. Naturally an invitation directed at those who take note of political things would make its way to them. And just as naturally, when deciding who to send, the Wardens would send Chevalier. The man in gold-and-silver armor naturally has an invitation, even if he might not be explicitly named on it. He's an official 'representative' of the Wardens though, and it's possible the invitation was to him specifically, depending on how on-the-ball the invitees were. Either way, he's the one who responds. While he's no Mover, he's one of the best at walking in blind on an unknown situation, dealing with whatever's there, and walking out again. He holds it out to the guards, seemingly impassive and endlessly patient. Then again it's impossible to see his expression underneath his gleaming helmet, and he's been long-practiced at eliminating behavioral ticks that show any nervousness despite that armor. That facade of impassive blankness shifts, however, when Rarity and Sweetie Belle leave their carriage. His head turns to regard them, and that's all. No fidgeting of the sword carried up against his shoulder, no posture of wariness or readiness... but he does stare. Even with that helmet covering his eyes, his intense regard is obvious. Oh, and if it needs saying... he's not going to give up his sword. It's there and it's obvious. Six feet of steel, broad and massive, and with a gun mechanism laid into its ornate hilt. The words 'over your dead body' weren't ever said, but they might as well have been. No one's taking the modern Knight's weapon from him, and he's not particularly interested in shrinking it to a less-threatening size either. He's not here for trouble, but neither is he here intending to become a victim.
Josuke Higashikata	'Region Space'. Josuke remembers that -- Koorong was there. Just one of the places, from the sounds of it. Somehow he'd gotten an invitation to come to another place in Region Space... 'Chateu Aiguille', in Facinaturu. Of course he's going to go. And like the last time, he wants to represent and look his best. So he's wearing a school uniform and dress loafers again. This time the jacket and pants are blue. The jacket is held open as before, with the gold pins, but this time displaying a green shirt under it. And his loafers are teal-colored. He's honestly surprised at the coach; given how hands-off Koorong was, he assumed they'd be left to their own devices in finding the place. But this is better, it means there's no chance of getting lost. And then Josuke sees the castle in the distance. "...Oh man..." he murmurs. The sight of that place doesn't really inspire confidence. But he's committed now! He does have his invitation, and will present it when asked. He comes to this seemingly unarmed. Unless one would consider a comb a weapon.
Marisa Kirisame	Marisa Kirisame has been to enough swanky parties being hosted by weird and reclusive types to know that there is a certain decorum to be followed. A list of rules, you might say. It goes a little something like this: 1 - If you receive an invitation, accept. Refusal means you might get vampire'd in the middle of the night, and then you'll have an infestation. 2 - Never leave home without some means of defending yourself. Chances are there will be at least one party guest who decides/is drunk enough to start a brawl and you don't want to go unprotected when the host can sling laser spears. 3 - And most importantly, always bring your own booze. And so, Marisa Kirisame steps out of the carriage looking every bit like she is some manner of particularly fancy witch (her dress is /extra/ frilly today!). She's brought her broom, a plastic bag practically bursting from the six oni-sized sake bottles clattering around inside, and... Nothing else? Of course, as a certain Perfect Maid might say, a lady's skirt is an excellent place to hide weapons if you find yourself in need of one. And Marisa certainly has a lot of skirt. "Huuuuuh," Marisa says, her head tilting slowly upwards to take in the full scale of the castle. "Wow, this is pretty big. I think it's bigger outside than the Mansion, even, but... I wonder what all this is about, anyway?" It's gotta be some kind of bigshot if they managed to fit a carriage that big up the road to Marisa's place, after all.
Asellus	As each person's invitation is inspected, it's really all just a formality. No matter who arrived by carriage did so without an invitation or without being attached to someone who has one. They wouldn't have come for them otherwise, let alone returned here. Also, Rarity and her Sweetie Belle receive practically no reaction from the guards that is different from what the others receive. This is the kind of world that has monsters living side-by-side with other species regularly. Individual sentiment may vary, but these people seem to be curling their lip at 'all the visitors in general' though they try valiantly to demonstrate no untoward expression or ill-manners. "Proceed." one of the guards says as he passes the ponies through. This repeats for each individual in turn. No doubt quite boring since they already know the outcome. Little do they know that among all the invited guests, there is one uninvited who uses the distraction of all these new faces to slip inside. But not through the gates. Within is a large circular room with stair cases sweeping up and out of sight to the left and right. More roses, more glowing crystals, more magic, more ornate decorations. It's not ostentatious or display for display's sake. It's artistic. There is actually little indication of wealth involved. No gold lying around, no statues in the ruler's image. Despite the artful construction and arrangement it has a sort of... Barren feel to it. Empty. However, there are many servants, many of them women, but there are men as well, in fashion several centuries out of date at least (compared to Koorong's slub-urbania-aesthetics, anyway). They seem to fit in just well with the surroundings though, leaving many of those who came here without knowing what to expect the ones who stand out. A supernaturally handsome man with green hair, in orange attire, is there in the middle of the room to greet everyone. Is this the ruler? He certainly looks as though he could be! He sweeps his arm and performs a slight bow once everyone has entered the room. "Welcome to Chateau Aiguille, everyone. I am Rastaban. Please enjoy the meal set out for you. The lord of this Region will be with us shortly." There is a large open area beyond this one, from which the sight of a throne of some kind can be seen. Tables filled with various delicacies appear out of nowhere all around the room. And just as the food appears, Rastaban vanishes, fading from sight.
Rarity	Thankfully no one here seems to take their non-humaness too oddly, and she's not going to dwell too deeply on why that may be at the moment. All Chevalier may do is stare a bit, but when she notices the armored man with the huge sword Sweetie Belle raises a hoof in a cheerful but polite wave in his direction. "Hello Mr. Chevalier sir!" Fortunately Rarity gives her a magic tug to follow her inside before the young pony can inadvertantly cause a spectacle. ... Not that Rarity is much better once they do enter. "Goodness! What an elaborate decorum they have." Something fancy was to be expected of course. But Rarity can see the difference between extravagant embellishment and artistic elegance that others might not. Her admiration doesn't distract her from the host, and she returns the bow politely... And gives Sweetie Belle a light nudge to do the same. Mind your manners, filly. But afterwards Rarity returns to her admirations, straying off to the side to investigate the decor a bit more closely. Naturally, once she's free of her sisters watchful eye for a moment Sweetie Belle immeadiately relocates to the food. Because kids. And food. And she'd best eat now before Rarity catchs up and makes her only take small samples to follow 'proper ettiquete'.
Ryu	The big empty room has Ryu nervous that he's going to be attacked. He turns his head slowly to inspect his surroundings, and his nose twitches. He consistently looks pretty uncomfortable, because this world both stinks of magic and also stinks of the sort of smells that only the wealthy can afford. And it has a distressingly... 'off' feeling that has the blue-haired young man frowning even more. He breathes a little sigh as Rastaban speaks to everyone, and then he visibly startles from the appearance of the tables as soon as they appear. No, startle is too soft a word. His attitude toward this whole situation shows on full display when his whole profile lowers, his hands out at his sides as if they were claws, his head snapping side to side. He almost backpedals into someone in his animal-like spooking... but straightens when he realizes it's not hostile, and that these are tables full of food. So he steps right over to grab something meaty and start chowing down. Munch munch munch. Holy heck those are some sharp teeth on someone that looks human. "Looks like a vampire's house," he says aloud, through a mouthful of food. "Doesn't this look like a vampire's house?" he asides to Rarity, the nearest person to him for a second there. It seems rhetorical, because he starts eating more after that, suspiciously glancing around the room in case more things pop out of nowhere.
Josuke Higashikata	Josuke offers a polite nod to the guard who checks his invitation, and then goes through the gates when bade. He walks into the large room and looks around with wide eyes. "Whoaaa... look at all this," he breathes quietly. No, it doesn't feel wealthy or rich. He's not sure HOW it feels, actually. Other than... well, yeah... empty. Even with the people inside. He regards the green-haired man there in the center of the room with a respectful bow. "Hello," he greets, as the man introduces himself. Though before he can say anything else, food on tables start appearing! "Wha?" He looks around the room again, and then back to Rastaban. "Hey, did you..." And the guy's gone. Josuke blinks.
Marisa Kirisame	"Yeaaaaah," Marisa answers Ryu's astute observation. "This is definitely vampires. Like, if the architecture wasn't enough, that guy had way too many frils and way too much pretty to be anything but a vampire. Plus, he seemed the butlery type. And if I know my vampires, they like their butlers teleporty. So." Marisa wiggles her hand all fiddly. "Probably definitely vampires. Ah well, what're you gonna do? Let's dig in!" WAIT NO MARISA THAT MIGHT BE HUMAN MEA-oh she's attacking the dessert tray first. Well. That's less bad. Even if it will probably all go to her thighs. Though, uh. It seems like she doesn't care, given how much she's stacking.
Chevalier	Chevalier sighs to himself, though at least he's discreet about it. Meeting the local rulers is generally a major pain, even if it's part of the job. Whether a president or a king, they all have to be dealt with in much the same way. This doesn't mean the armored man has to be completely stoic, of course. He's allowed to relax so long as he doesn't compromise his public persona. He might even have something to drink, particularly if things start to drag on. He strides over to the ponies. "Ladies." he says with a slight bow to the ponies, one hand crossing his chest to support his sword. Admittedly the sword seems to be easily-managed and not actually need support, resting naturally against his shoulder as if the massive bulk of metal weighs little. Much like the bulk of his armor for that matter. Chevalier glances at Ryu, taking the smaller man in with a measuringly thorough glance. "Vampires, you say." he murmurs. "It might well be." he adds noncomittally. Such things are legends and myths where he's from, but not to the Multiverse at large. And even back home, some few villains had the powerset and the inclination to claim to be vampires as their powers manifested the ability to dematerialize, to feed off life-energies, or similar things. He's inclined to be wary of anyone identifying themselves as a dark life-drinking monster, naturally.
Asellus	The gathering proceeds without incident for a little while. Minutes pass and people are permitted to mingle. The servants stand in attendance, eerily silent and emotionless, just watching everyone else eat their fill and talk. Any one who thinks they are not partaking themselves due to some sort of nefarious alterations to the food will discern by any measure they choose to use that, no, it's absolutely one-hundred percent normal, exquisitely made, with the finest ingredients, and there is an assortment of fine foods from a number of Regions (not that the last bit would be evident due to lack of exposure to other Regions). There are also accommodations for various diets, ranging from herbivores to carnivores to beings that subsist on magic energy (delicate magic crystals are available for those ones, spun like sugary confections, but completely of mystical power). The servant just... Give off that inhuman vibe. But hey, so do lots of others present, right? We have ponies. And people with really sharp teeth. And a completely ordinary magician. And That Guy With The Hair. No way is he normal! So no big deal. Chevalier is probably the one that fits in best, ironically.
Marisa Kirisame	MEANWHILE, MARISA-- Is apparently stuffing her hat with magic crystals. Huh. M-maybe she's just getting a doggy-bag for later? Does she even eat magic? No? Huh. Then why's she throwing some mushrooms in there, too? (KIRISAME RULE #25: IF IT'S NOT BOLTED DOWN, IT'S YOURS)
Rarity	Rarity gives a bit of a look at Ryu and Chevalier as they have some conversation about vampires and similarities in decor, then shakes her head. Tch. But considering one is a Paladin hero and the other is, well, she doesn't know who or what Ryu is per say, but they seem like the heroic sorts that could come across such things. So she can't really blame them for seeing similarity to past experiences. As long as they don't do something rude to upset their host. "Somehow, I am not surprise," Rarity murmurs as she finds Sweetie Belle already at the food, but just shakes her head while levitating a finger sandwhich (without the literal finger hopefully) for herself. "I do suppose it would be best to get snacks out of the way now."
Ryu	Ryu's vibe is probably not remarkable unless someone has magic senses. In the case of these senses, he is a beacon of blinding light, standing out in the silhouette of a faerie-like dragon. Otherwise he's largely just a dude with blue hair, for the time being. His teeth are still awfully sharp. He looks a little nonplussed when people actually confirm what he's saying, having secretly hoped that he would be wrong. Marisa was, consequently, the opposite of comforting. Speaking of... "I don't know a lot about manners but I know that doesn't look good," Ryu tells Marisa, but he looks extremely entertained by Marisa's behavior.
Josuke Higashikata	Josuke is a little concerned about those servants, to be honest. They don't look like they're moving around all that much, and standing so still for this long must be hard on their legs. but yes. Milling about and mingling is a thing he needs to do. Also there's food -- he's a teenage boy, of course he's going to notice the food. Though once he gets over to the table, he doesn't scarf. No, he's put ill at ease enough to eat slowly. And if Sweetie Belle is still there when he gets there, he'll give her a smile and a wave. "Hello," he greets, with a friendly smile. "How are you doing?" And then he blinks when he sees Marisa. "Um... I'm not sure those are on the menu..." he hedges, not really sure why she's doing that.
Marisa Kirisame	"Naaaah, these are perfectly good manners," Marisa waves dragonboy's and pompadoude's worries away. "I mean. I like their food so much that I'm willing to take it home with me! That's plenty polite. I'm really grateful! Honest. Besides! I brought them extradimensional booze! I think it's only right for me to take something for myself too, yeah?" Opportunistic little guttersnipe, this one.
Rarity	Both unicorns look up at Josuke. And then Sweetie Belle starts giggling. "I really like his ma--" she stops, correcting herself from pony-terms, "his hair." Rarity tilts her head to the side. "It is certainly not a common hairstyle to see these days. Yet you certainly carry well with it, sir." She is obtusing ignoring Marisa. There is always that one person that takes 'free' in 'free snacks' to the literal extreme. How uncouth, but it is not her party nor place to deal with it.
Chevalier	Fortunately it's not Chevalier's job to enforce the laws of this kingdom. Or for that matter, to decide whether Marisa's behavior is something that might be against the rules. He can ignore it just fine without worrying about it reflecting poorly on his reputation. Or he can appreciate her opportunism for that matter. Just because he has to be polite doesn't mean he can't appreciate someone snubbing their nose at politeness so openly. He can't really tell anything useful with his unnatural senses. They're unreliable at best, and surrounded by this much weirdness they're more confusing than useful. He ignores the occasional glimmer, preferring to trust more conventional senses and conventional judgments. Yes, he assumes the food is safe. It would be the height of idiocy to poison or drug food served at a multiversal party like this. Still, it's difficult to eat when you're wearing a full facial helm. And even if Chevalier were willing to relax his guard enough to do so, he's used to attending functions where he just simply doesn't. He might find a private place at some point where he can lift his visor in peace, but that time isn't now.
Asellus	After a while longer, Rastaban reappears and calls for everyone's attention. Somehow, without raising his voice at all, it fills the room, and the ears of those within it, as though he were speaking directly into them from right at their side. "Our lord is ready to see you now," he says cheerfully. "Please proceed into the throne room, to pay your respects and be recognized." He then vanishes again, only to appear a short distance away inside the room ahead with its long red carpet, and the root-like structures woven into the floor, and the many glowing floewr-crystals everywhere. Two more figures fade into being on either side of the carpet. A man with a more emerald shade of green to his hair, in black armor, and a white-haired man in a purple suit. Anyone with the appropriate senses can feel the person seated upon the throne. Regal attire with something like wings or flowers or... What even ARE those? They're extending from his back, at any rate, maybe part of his body maybe part of his clothing. As well, a crown with more items of uncertain properties extending from it. They might be feathers or the shoots of some exotic flower. His ornate clothing, simple in design, but well-crafted, seems to constantly be moving in some unfelt wind even as he sits still. Power radiates from him. Supernatural charisma. Even if unheeded, it can be felt. Even the four beautiful women, two on each side of the throne, pale by comparison to the sheer presence that this man radiates. If he is a vampire, then he is a king among them. A number of the other attendees, without the mental fortitude of Elites, find themselves kneeling and bowing without even meaning to, overcome by the pressure of that power. The king waits patiently for everyone to filter in, his expression calm, evaluating, not sneering arrogance. For the moment, he is taking in each person who enters on their own merits. He pays each attention in kind. Rarity and Sweetie Belle are not dismissed on appearances. Their magic is identifiable to him. The same for Ryu's power, and as well for Marisa. No magic is felt from Josuke, so his gaze tracks past him, and the same for Chevalier. However, even when his eyes do not linger, each person feels as though the ruler looked at them personally, eye-to-eye. Once everyone is present, Rastaban speaks once more. "Thank you all for accepting the invitation. We are pleased you could make it. You stand before our lord--" Rastaban begins, but before he can say anything else, there is a commotion at the back of the huge group.
Josuke Higashikata	Josuke smiles to the two unicorns in greeting! He doesn't seem weirded in the slightest out by them being equine. Maybe he's just used to the weird stuff? Then again, he seemed pretty weirded out by their current surroundings when he arrived, so maybe not. Though the compliment to his hairstyle isn't missed! His smile brightens -- he looks like he's just been gifted with the most precious of things! "Oh, thanks!" he says happily, raising a hand to pat at the front of his pompadour. It does this little bounce, too, so he's clearly using something that's holding it without making the whole hairstyle rigid. And then Rastaban is back! Josuke takes the bit of whatever it was that he'd picked up and heads back to where he can listen to Rastaban. They're ushered into the throne room and Josuke displays a bit of bad manners (finally) and shoves the mouthful of food he'd picked up into his mouth. He'll chew on the way to the other room. At least he's got his mouth closed, so it's not too bad! Himself, Josuke has no supernatural senses, so he doesn't really feel anything off. Well, aside from THIS WHOLE BLEEDING PLACE! Yeah, that's a bit off, but nothing else about anyone here really sticks out. Except the guy on the throne. Josuke's gaze is drawn to him in a way he can't really explain. He HAD heard that fellow he didn't recognize (that would be Ryu, who Josuke has not seen in human form yet) say something about vampires... and he remembered Jotaro telling him about Dio, who had the same effect on people... His eyes go wide -- this guy is a vampire? Why did he invite such a big assortment of random people? But this is a king, clearly enough, and so Josuke bows respectfully. He'd been meaning to do that anyway, so the mental 'push' is all he really needs to remind him to actually do so. He straightens as Rastaban begins to speak again, looking to him. But then there's a commotion... and of course he looks over there. What's going on?
Rarity	Rarity gives her sister a light magic tug to get her attention away from the snacks. "Come dearie. It is time to meet our gracious host." With younger unicorn in tow she heads in the indicated direction, still marveling at the artistically intricate decor. Then the man sitting at the center of it upon his throne. His attire is... well, even she, despite her wealth of knowledge in styles and materials, cannot place many of the adornments. So she is left assuming they are something of a local stylization, likely related to his high station in society. Rarity bows at the greeting, and this time Sweetie follows suit without being prodded like a good filly. "It is our honor to--" And then there's an commotion interrupting. Rarity stops mid-introduction, lifting her head to look back. "--Why do I suddenly have a dreadful feeling..."
Chevalier	Chevalier makes his way with the others, willing to at least nominally pay his respects and to be presented. Not to kneel however. He has no intention of kneeling. Bowing will have to suffice. Yes, he can sense that there's something extraordinary about the king. The Shadows that surround him to Chevalier's senses, different from shadows cast by ordinary light, tell him that much even if he's not able to analyze them conclusively. Chevalier bows respectfully with his sword held ceremonially, maintaining proper decorum, though his will is sufficient to keep him from kneeling. It's enough to prevent him bowing, save he already felt that was an appropriate gesture of respect. He doesn't have to like someone to offer them a measure of respect. That, and meet them eye to eye... even if the king's gaze doesn't linger on him, and his own gaze is impossible to determine past his helm. Chevalier doesn't turn to acknowledge the disruption. He remains facing forward, studying Rastaban instead. Disruptions are unlikely to affect Chevalier himself directly after all, and he could learn a lot by paying attention to how the locals deal with such things.
Marisa Kirisame	Well. One thing to say for the guy in the big chair, he certainly doesn't seem to mind that Marisa has shoved several fights' worth of Magic Gems into her hat. Another thing to say: What the hell is that guy wearing? Any guess which one Marisa actually gives voice to? "Huuuuuh," Marisa observes at the guy in the throne. "Wow. That's... Fancy?" Yep. "...I wonder what's with the girls draped all over him? That's kind of..." Creepy? Tacky? Weird? "Iff...y?"
Ryu	Ryu looks up with food still in his maw, and steps along to meet this king that asked for their presence. The invitation was delivered directly to him, and so the dragon sought answers for the oddity that was inherent in this meeting. As he comes to a halt, it's clear he is not impressed with this situation. That is definitely a scowl on his face, and in his barely contained hostility he absolutely refuses to kneel, bow, or do anything even remotely respectful besides just not cause a ruckus in here when nothing is immediately exploding already. Those gold eyes fixate with the kind of primal disdain that only a natural opposite can really convey. He maintains almost unblinking eye contact. That charisma apparently doesn't mean anything to him... because he doesn't like people like this at all. He turns his head when he hears a distraction, though, his expression finally softening to one of strangely innocent confusion.
Asellus	Around the time that everyone started filtering into the throne room, a young woman with green hair descended the left-hand staircase, which had been cordoned off by guards to keep people from wandering where they shouldn't be. Aside from the hair and eye color, she looks completely human. Her clothing is modern and Earth-ly. However, what exactly has caused the disruption becomes evident when she makes her way through the crowd that slowly parts for her. She has a hole in both the back and front of her blue hoodie-shirt thing, and a purple fluid surrounds each. Some stains of red also lie around the hole in front, and spattered in dried patches about the cotton fabric. Is she injured? Was she attacked? In an accident? She looks dazed, confused, and wary of the huge number of people and all their assorted appearances. Horses indoors are just one of many sights that seem on the verge of making her topple over, though she does stare at two unicorns (she has never seen unicorns before). This young woman does not look as though she came here for the party. She looks at the man on the throne, and begins to walk directly up the carpet towards him, fists clenched at her sides, eyes gaining a lucidity to them as she focuses on what's right in front of her. When the voices and the commentary on fashion and women-as-accessories dies down a bit, the king upon the throne speaks. "What is your name?" the king's voice comes out, simultaneously soothing and harsh. Like being slapped with a hand in a silk glove. It demands attention. It echoes inside one's head, as though it could drown out other thoughts with the sound of it. Weaker wills than Elites could easily succumb in a matter of seconds, and do. But it's not hard to imagine that, given enough time, he could convince someone to cut their own throat simply because it would please him that they do so. "My name is Asellus." she answers. If she's affected by this charisma, by that ringing-inside-the-head voice, she isn't showing it. "But shouldn't you introduce yourself before asking others their names?" The white-haired man in the pony tail turns towards the girl, baring his teeth. "Insolent!"
Asellus	The king, much like for Marisa's, Josuke's, and Ryu's eating manners, seems not to mind no matter how his servants and minions might curl their lip in disgust or outrage. "Asellus. A lovely name. And spirited too. I like that." A ripple passes through the crowd. A shudder at the praise, even if not directed at them. Right here, in this very throne room, a number of guests have already begun to become enthralled to the person seated on the throne. None of them Elites. But they must no doubt wonder how this young woman can remain unaffected, as she simple repeats her request blandly and insistently, "Shouldn't you tell me YOUR name?" The weakest willed might wish feel jealousy that it was not they who received the compliment. While Ryu, likewise seems quite resilient, and Chevalier is not giving in to any prodding or manipulation, it is clear that being in this king's presence too long could be quite compromising for many without the appropriate fortitude. Rastaban speaks for his king unprompted, or at least not by any visible nudging. With the power the king wields, he can certainly make people speak on his behalf as he pleases, "Charm Lord." One of the women up on the platform with the king says, "Merciless King." The pony-tailed man says, "Protector of Rose." Another woman says, "Ruler of Darkness." The emerald-haired man says, "Pursuer of Beauty." Another of the four ladies says, "Supreme Judge." Pony tail guy speaks again, "Ruler of Facinaturu, Lord of the Castle." The final of the four attendants says, "Mystic Lord Orlouge." The whole thing feels scripted, perfectly in synch, as though this 'Orlouge' were pulling their strings without raising a finger the whole time. Or at though they know exactly what is expected of them, from introducing him many times before. And few people indeed identify themself as the 'Ruler of Darkness' who aren't some brand of evil overlord, though thus far he has yet to do anything except live in a castle and be kind of 'iff-y' to use Marisa's terminology.
Josuke Higashikata	It's instinctive by now. Josuke sees someone injured, he tries to make his way over to them. So that woman there, the one with the quite visible what looks like a STAB WOUND?! Yeah, he's heading over in her direction. If he'll be allowed to, that is. Guards, servants, and other people might make that impossible. For now. He doesn't instantly start throwing his Stand around, because then the woman and the king on the throne are talking. Maybe he'll find out what's going on if he listens. So he listens! Introductions are made of the king -- scripted? Mind-controlled?! Josuke is willing to believe either. But soon he's more worried about the woman. And he tries to go to her side. Should be be able to get to her side? Well, he's likely to cause a ruckus, because he's going to try to fix her injuries -- and her clothes. The appearance of Crazy Diamond is what's likely to cause the ruckus though -- should non-magicial people be able to summon DEMONS?! That's surely what the Stand will look like. Of course, that's if he can get to her side. He still might not be able to, with all the people.
Marisa Kirisame	Marisa... Is apparently actually still munching on something or other that she grabbed from the party tables. Is that a cake? It's a cake. She is forking what looks to be a delicious chocolate cake into her face. If she is at all affected by the Charm Lord's incredible charisma, she's... ... Oh fine let's not beat around the bush, Marisa isn't into that. She's shrugged off the terrifying, madness-inducing power of the True Moon and stared the insanity bunny down, eye-to-eye. If this was enough to turn her into a gushing, bubbly ditz, there's no way she could ever have the kind of storied career she has. Also. He's kind of creepy. There are WAY too many girls draped over his lap. And then there's... This... Person. This pretty, green-haired person. "Uh," Marisa says, shoving the last of her cake into her mouth. A moment later and she's /already in front of that green hair girl,/ giving her the most worried look ever. "Oh. Oh jeez. You have a stab wound. I--" Someone gets an introduction. Marisa stares at the man on the throne. "That's really nice and all, but this pretty lady's got a gaping hole in her chest and nobody's gonna bring that up??" ... ...Apprently Marisa just likes pretty girls more than pretty guys??
Rarity	Why does it seem like no matter when, no matter where, no matter what alternate world it may be, Rarity just can't catch a break and have a ordinary high society social outing? "Oh, of all the possible things..." The whole thing feels really scripted, and some of those titles being thrown around are not the most reassuring. But first things first. She's got a younger sister to worry about. "Stay close." Rarity literally pushes Sweetie Belle behind herself protectively with one foreleg. Then tugs on her hair bow so it covers her ears, despite the filly's squeak of protest/annoyance. It's probably a marginal counter at best, but she doesn't want impressionable young pony ears and mind hearing things that may carry more unnatural impact than they should if she can help it.
Ryu	Ryu watches the entire exchange with something between confusion and discomfort. The more of a strange charismatic influence this kingly vampire exudes, the more that the dragon just seems like he's got some kind of itch he can't scratch. Considering his glaring earlier, that might involve trying to commit violence. His nose twitches as he regards the appearance Asellus has, especially since someone brought up the wound when he hadn't been thinking about it otherwise. To Marisa's comment, he points out, "The blood is old. She doesn't smell like she's in that kind of distress, either." And then he steps forward, completely heedless of the apparent court etiquette he's expected to follow, but only to advance to Asellus' side and get a look at the spot that would show a wound. He seems to actively ignore the Charm Lord in favor of checking Asellus' current state of health, to the point that he even murmurs little soothing instructions and takes out a pen light to check her eyes like a nurse or doctor would do, the light taken from his bag.
Chevalier	Okay this is fascinating, and creepy. Chevalier does eventually look around, once Asellus is presented. And bloody. He's no healer though, and that doesn't exactly look like blood. Or rather, if it's blood, a person who bleeds in purple is well beyond any first aid he might administer. Chevalier causes wounds; he doesn't generally heal them. Josuke's Stand gets a hard look from the armored warrior. He's seen similar, and in fact it looks a whole lot like something Valkyrie might summon up. He doesn't assume it's hostile, given that. He moves in though, adding his presence and weight to Josuke's move. The young man may or may not have the bulk and presence to push through a crowd of gawking people, but Chevalier has an excess of both. He's careful not to crush people or risk harming them with an accidental brush of his cannonblade. He even dials his armor's weight down to minimum to reduce the risk of harm... but he'll support Josuke's move. He's worked with the man before after all, and that turned out all right.
Asellus	"Mystic? You're a mystic?" Whatever that refers to, it seems to mean something to the girl at least. Maybe she's from around here. "I am a human." she states clearly, as though explaining to a child instead of some kind of godly vampire king. "I've no business with you. Let me go home." Seems she's not from around 'here', necessarily but maybe one of the other worlds or 'Regions' attached to the newly unified space. She turns when she feels someone touching her, green eyes shining with defiance and preparation to defend herself even without any power to speak of. But all that seems to happen as some kind of ghost-man-thing appears beyond draw startlement and more curses from pony-tail-man at the insolence of these humans is that her clothing mends itself. It seems she wasn't injured. Or at least not anymore. She turns again in confusion when Marisa moves in front of her and starts trying to nanny her. "Who are all of you people?" she asks, clearly quite lost about what's happening. She tries to knock away the light shining in her eyes, not necessarily violently but like someone who doesn't want lights being shined into her eyes by strangers. Unperturbed by this display, Orlouge just watches, and allows these people to fuss over Asellus. A few of the stronger-willed and wiser of the guests are starting to slip away, feeling that this isn't the type of party they signed up for, leaving an opening in the crowd that Rarity might usher a youngster through if she has similar thoughts of safety. With various people too unusual or possessing powers too strange to be anything other than Adventurer Types all congregating around this woman who apparently doesn't belong here or want to be here, it's looking like a conflict might arise if things continue to escalate. Orlouge eventually has enough of people forming up around Asellus like body guards and speaks to her, as though they weren't even there. "You saw your blood in the flower garden, didn't you? It was purple. You are no longer human." Asellus's eyes widen as she shouts in a mix of fear, anger, and denial, "It' a lie!" As though she were trying to convince not the audience to this tableau, but herself. Patronizingly, Orlouge tilts his head and smiles kindly, that influence of his continuing to sway listeners to his will. "You were stabbed with Ciato's sword, but where's your wound?" Wait, what? So she was stabbed in some flower garden, and he knew about it? Is that why she's here? Because she was attacked, and she was brought here to recover? That's... Less sketchy than other reasons to be holding a human girl here. Is he, in fact, actually some kind of good guy? A really creepy good guy!? BUT WAIT. HE'S NOT DONE. "Even before that you were dead, run over by my carriage." O-oh. So he... Killed her and brought her here... And resurrected her as a non-human? And then some guy stabbed her? But she healed from it? "The only reason you're even alive is because of my blood--Mystic blood." The rabbit hole goes even deeper!! "Red human blood and blue mystic blood have made your blood purple. Now you're a half-mystic." Mister Speedwagon being here to commentate these shocking revelations would be really helpful right about now.
Marisa Kirisame	This... green haired girl is a... half-mystic? She has purple blood. Red of human and blue of mystic. So clearly that means... ... ... "That--" Marisa looks INSTANTANEOUSLY incredulous, "Is not at all how blood types work!!" Uh. Huh. Well, she seems to be taking Asellus' side, at least...!
Rarity	"Sweetie, I think it is time for you to wait outside." "Aaaw, but I wanna--" "No buts," Rarity lightly but firmly retorts as she nudges her sister back. She backs up a few steps as well, to scoot Sweetie Belle into the departing crowd. "This may shortly become a more grown-ups party." "Rarity, this is no time to think abou--" But Sweetie Belle stops as she sees Rarity pull out the enchanted parasol that is part of her Harmony Knight attire, although she has not summoned the entire armor. Yet. Seeing the magic accessory seems to get the point across though, and in a quieter voice "--Be careful." Then ducks back into the departing crowd. Rarity just remains standing by the doors people are leaving through. There's nothing making her stay, but really, she wants to know just what the heck is going on now.
Josuke Higashikata	Josuke will need that help there, from Chevalier. Now, Josuke is a big guy himself, thanks to his dad, but he's still with human normal. Chevalier is a REALLY big, armored dude who can make people get out of his way. That's going to be super-useful for pushing through a crowd. Josuke offers a nod in Chevalier's direction, in thanks for the assistance. He's aware too, that there didn't seem to be injuries. But at least her clothes look nice and clean now! She doesn't know who they are, of course. Josuke bows his head to her politely, dismissing his Stand. "I'm Josuke Higashikata. I'm sorry if I scared you, but I was worried when it looked like you were hurt," he offers, by way of introduction and apology. He almost sounds sheepish as he apologizes to her. He does, at least, have the courtesy to stand aside as Orlouge speaks. Or maybe he's just cowed by the man's aura. Who knows? Either way, he stands to the girl's side as the revelation is made. The girl's been basically turned into a vampire, is what he gets from it all. Then again, he doesn't know how that works here. He isn't making any overt moves yet. ANd hey, he was eager to help someone that this guy turned into a vampire, right? He had to have turned her because he liked her, right? Right?
Ryu	"What?" Ryu's tone is almost Samuel L. Jackson levels of baffled, skeptical and nearly aggressive when he looks away from Asellus and toward the Charm Lord, who has said something absolutely stupid about blood when that is definitely not how blood works. And that just shatters his disguise. His human form just evaporates, but, hilariously, he still has a pen light in his hand-like paw, in the position it was in when Asellus pushed it away. He stuffs it back in the medical satchel hanging off his shoulder... "Alright, let's forget about the blood." "Is she supposed to owe you something now? Is that how this works?" Ryu is being very accusatory, and it's clear he is itching for a fight. A fight he might win, because this is not a small potatoes dragon.
Asellus	Rastaban turns to the emerald-haired man and mutters, "Blood types? You mean those things people use in fortune telling?" The emerald-haired man just responds with, "Don't talk to me right now." Orlouge dismisses Marisa's protest. "Magic does not obey the laws of science. Mystics are beings of magic. Like my unicorn guests over there." he gestures in Rarity's direction. Oh, snap. So he's keeping track of people. Guards seem to be pushing the people trying to slip away back into the throne room, corralling humans, elves, robots, and tiny-corns alike. Seems that wasn't an escape route after all...! Hissed instructions that they are not to leave until they are permitted to leave indicate they may be on the verge of being taken prisoner. Orlouge resumes speaking to the dazed-looking Asellus, though the explanation also seems to be for Ryu. "Although she is still half human, as a mystic she still has a great obligation to our kingdom." he explains like a teacher to a student. "I am..." Asellus mutters as she turns to look at the armored figure that flanks her as though for reassurance. As though even though he is an imposing stranger, Chevalier's decision to stand with her made her some kind of expert on what's going on who can tell her what she should be doing right now. "Ildon." Orlouge says. The emerald-haired man, apparently named Ildon, responds immediately, almost before the words are out of his lord's mouth. "Yes, my Lord." "You are in charge of the girl." Asellus turns towards Josuke next, the one who mended the hole in her clothing. The only one she knows the name of so far from amongst those near her. "Why..." she doesn't seem to know why this has happened to her any more than the others do. "Yes, my Lord." Ildon answers with a very slight sliver of a delay, perhaps surprised by being chosen. Pony-tail guy protests, "But Lord, perhaps Ildon isn't right for this job. Just in case..." Rastaban rebukes him. "Quiet, Ciato. Our lord knows what he is doing. Ildon will do. He's both agile and skilled with a sword." Wait, pony tail guy is Ciato? The same Ciato that stabbed Asellus? So then, like, why is her here instead of in a dungeon or something?? Unless it was at Orlouge's command!?! More and more this is seeming like bad news and a bad place for this girl to be, but fighting their way out, even with some kind of Dragon Penlight Man and also an Armor Physics Dude and a Buffetthief Witch Lady and a Healing Pompadour Demon and a pair of Unicorns With Umbrellas (oddly among the least weird of the guests), might not be the best of solutions. Especially not with this many innocent bystanders in the way.
Asellus	Orlouge looks upon Asellus turning about in a daze to face Marisa next, speaking in half-sentences as she tries to grapple with the overwhelming changes in her life. He taps his finger on his porcelain-white cheek. "Ildon will be perfect to teach her the power of mystics. But..." "Half mystic..." "we need someone else to teach her some manners. I'll wake Princess White Rose. These two will do for the girl's education. Ildon, get her some decent clothes." Then his eyes track to the cluster of Elites. "And since you seem so protective of her, perhaps you can instruct her about your worlds. It can't hurt for her to have a greater understanding of her situation." Then he just fades out of existence, apparently dipping on the party he called. His consorts of whatever vanish a moment later. Then Rastaban and Ciato. Leaving only Ildon, Asellus, a group of Elites, and a bunch of guests who are now being told by the guards that the gathering has concluded and that they should go home by the guards who are now plenty accommodating in showing them the way out the door. The takeaway from all this? Orlouge is a jerk. "Mystic... Half-mystic... Blue blood... Purple blood..." Asellus is still muttering, until Ildon walks up to her and the others and says, "Accept your fate. Be grateful we are taking such good care of you even though you are only a half-mystic." Correction: Seems like ALL mystics are jerks. "Let's go."
Josuke Higashikata	When Ryu turns into a dragon again, Josuke blinks. Oh hey, he DOES know that guy, he realizes! But he doesn't call out or say anything yet. This is a pretty tense situation and Josuke doesn't know what's going to happen next! Josuke listens to the noble sorts as they speak -- basically OVER everyone else, but he's come to expect that now -- learning what's going on. He doesn't LIKE it, but no... fighting their way out of here is probably not a good idea. Lord Orl-douche here pretty much guaranteed that wasn't going to be viable when he refused to let anyone leave. Thankfully it seems that's not going to be too big a concern now, since the guys soon disappear, one after the other. Josuke sighs, "...Just <great>..." Looking to Asellus he suggests, "Might be a good idea to go with them for now. They're probably the best people to help you learn how to deal with whatever they did to you." Here, though... his eyes narrow and he gets a mischievous look. "...Besides that," he stage-whispers to her, "The more you learn about them, the more knowledge you can use against them later." Sneaky little bastard.
Rarity	... Oh good, she isn't going to need the magic umbrella/shield after all. Besides, there is a greater emergency now calling for her expertise. "Excuse moi!" Rarity nudges her way between the imposing forms of Josuke and Chevalier. "But I do believe I heard someone in need of a fashion intervention~." She shoos Ildon aside. "Now now my good sir, leave this to the professional." She looks at Asellus for a moment, then frowns briefly as she remembers this is a party and she didn't really come prepared for actual fashionista-ing. Just her own dress an.... oh... Oh! Of course, that's the only answer appropriate of the Element of Generousity. With a few tugs of telekinesis Rarity pulls her own dress off, magics a few adjustments (she's fortunately had plenty of experience with humanoid bodies thanks to the Multiverse) and proceeds in refitting it on Asellus instead.
Ryu	The whole exchange just boils Ryu's blood. He looks more and more unhappy with this, because this girl never asked to be snatched up into some kind of idiotic vampire politics, and clearly doesn't get affected by whatever charismatic aura that Orlouge has. There's no words from him during the rest of this, but the way his head turns, the way his body tenses, the way his wings lift... it's clear he's inches from attacking someone the more this progresses. And then Ildon approaches, and the dragon glares without blinking, barely containing his rage. There's a movement almost imperceptible. The moment he says 'Let's go,' the tension snaps. Other people say stuff, but there's a sound like a whipcrack, and Ryu is suddenly in a different posture somehow, having completed some kind of backhanded swing. It wouldn't have killed most people, but it would've made their day much worse. For a Mystic, it gets his point across. "I'm leaving," he states, right after that, seeming to regret what he just did, but he seems so ANGRY about it. Ryu may very well try to kill someone if they don't let him leave.
Marisa Kirisame	Marisa looks-- Well, to be quite honest, she looks like she's about two seconds from Master Sparking the entire place, throwing the green-haired girl over her shoulder and getting the hell out of dodge. But she doesn't. The anger in her eyes demands a little more than just property damage. "Sure, okay," Marisa lies. None of this is okay. "I'll teach her a thing or two," she glances meaningfully Asellus-ward and gives a quick little smirk. The kind that says she's Planning Something Dangerous. "After all, what's the worst I could teach her, huh?" Ohhhhhh boy
Asellus	Ryu's blow strikes Ildon and sends some of that blue blood flying from his lip. His head jerks and he is knocked back a few steps, but he doesn't seem to be about to die. At least they have confirmation that mystic blood is blue. So red + blue = purple after all. These are blood facts, people. Pay attention. Asellus, to her credit, aside from a slight twitch of her eye at the enormous force unleashed, doesn't flinch when exposed to this violence. She just waits for Ildon to turn his head back towards the remorseful dragon, glaring wordlessly, and then tries to distract him so that Ryu can leave unmolested. "Go where?" she asks. Ildon snaps, "Hello! Is anyone in there?" The wound on his lip is already healing shut, demonstrating how Asellus survived being stabbed most likely. He magicks the blood out of existence. "Didn't you hear what the Lord just said? We're going to Rootville to get your dress." As Rarity rushes forth to perform Fashion Services, Asellus, flustered and confused at being magically forced into strange clothing over what she's already wearing flails gracelessly. Ildon, though he probably could have retaliated against Ryu for the assault, instead simply let him leave. Likewise, when he speaks to Rarity to warn her, he is, if not exactly polite, not quite the asshole that some of the other mystics have been. Rastaban seemed friendly enough, at least. This one seems... Honorable. "Thank you, but we placed the order long ago. As our lord has included you in her instruction, however, you might want to come along. I get the feeling that the tailor would be pleased to have your help. He uses magic in his wares as well." Ildon starts leading the way outside, as people continue to be shuttled out the front gates and into magic carriages. At the VERY least, Orlouge isn't telling people to find their own way back. Those who stuck around appear to have their work cut out for them if they intend to help Asellus escape. Asellus, for her part, looks at Marisa oddly, and then just says somewhat uncertaintly, "Sure." Who is she supposed to trust after all that's happened? What is she supposed to believe? She isn't rejecting the help anyway. And she thinks on Josuke's advice. To learn what she can from them for now... In case she needs to use it against them.