2020-11-13 Court of Shattered Scale - Open Court

Court of Shattered Scale - Open Court

Participants: Hawthorne Hauk Crow No Moccasins Maricela Bryn Hafsa Cillian Winnifred

Location: Audience Chamber - Court of Shattered Scale

Date and Time: Nov 13, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

Summary: Discussions of Point Vincente and a Timewarped Dance for Protection

 The Audience Chamber ‒ Xenuhemach Stronghold ‒ County of the Shattered Scale

                              --Dreaming Desc--

The Audience Chamber of the Xenuhemach freehold exists within a truly massive globe of water, suspended in the central ring of three concentric stone circles, rising from the valley floor, some six hundred feet below. Floating at the base of the globe is an island, roughly a hundred square yards in size. The inner walls of the sphere are cold to the touch -- not banal cold, simply chilled, though the cool temperature does not seem to impede the life found within the waters. Fantastical fish in a myriad of colors swim in bright schools, while more ominous and overtly predatory creatures lurk at the depths, rushing upwards to strike from ambush when they feed. Mechanical dragons of bright silver with ebony claws and teeth ferry people back and forth between the Eyrie above the Audience Chamber and the Hanging Gardens below, passing through splitting tunnels of water in the sphere, keeping riders from getting wet. The island is lush with vegetation, thick, soft grasses and bold wildflowers spread across the ground, seamlessly growing between flagstones of that honey and opal colored stone. Ringing the island are a wealth of mossy tree stumps of varying height, never fully trees but they lend a pleasing green to contrast the water. Small pools dot the field here and there, fed by small waterfalls that cascade down the walls, occasionally home to a cluster of bright fish or a predatory, shark-like creature. During times of open court, it seems that there are always enough of these stumps available for seating as needed, and flat crystalline pallets of quartz or jet have been known to burst up from the ground to act as tables when called. Against the far wall of the island there is a raised dais with an ebony and jet enameled throne of hard, bamboo like grasses growing up from the floor. The throne is shaped in a wingback style taken to the next level, the back shaped like the wings of a dragon preparing to take flight. Also upon the dais is a kind of stool made of thick, green vines. The seat of the stool is saddle shaped, deep and well cushioned, made seemingly of spider silk. At night, the seat of the stool catches moonlight, illuminating with a glow all its own. Just off the dais in an alcove of its own sits the skull of Zysyss, the undead dragon. Resting on the skull's brow, the charred remnants of Countess Morrigaine's crown, flanked by remembrance candles. Amidst the dense foliage and waterfalls of the Audience Chamber there are breaks in the lines. Natural alcoves where shadows reside provide spaces where whispers can be made and private, or mostly private, deals can be done. Some, however, are illuminated by flowering plants that offer their own colored light sources. Set into one of these is a staircase leading down to a glowing, elevator-like door set in the stone of the ring below.

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It's open court day. The Baron is in and out as the day goes on, but he's not here, there's likely someone from the Court up on the dais, ready to receive petitions, reports, and requests.

Hauk's taken up residence on the dias, handling business as it arrives, with the air of one used to the politics if still getting settled into his role here in Xenuhemach. While there's an extra stool set out, presumably for his use, for the moment he stands with a leather bound notebook in one hand that he consults with or writes in occasionally as time progresses and various petitioners are heard.

Watching the procession from one wing is Crow, leaning against a tree in a relaxed manner. A far more relaxed manner than she is usually known for, in fact. She nods at those few petitioners she recognises but otherwise remains still. It seems she's here to fulfill the role of security, and to provide an extra voice to the court, should Hauk have need of her.

She watches the Baron himself leave the area with a raised eyebrow, but otherwise shrugs at his exit. Something important, no doubt, though she would likely need to speak with him later.

No Moccasins strides into the audience chamber with the ever-heavy thump of her oversized bare feet. She places her meaty fists on her hips as she surveys the scene. "Dame Crow!" she declares with obvious pleasure. "How fares Xenuhemach Stronghold?" A nod is given to the unknown figure of Hauk at the dais and then the Nunnehi giantess heads in Crow's direction.

Crow chuckles from her position, a genuine smile at the Native Woman. "No Moccassins. Good to see you again." Her eyes trail over the petitioners, as she answers. "Well enough, for now." she glances out of the corner of her eye at the giant woman. "Just the usual stuff, but we are holding on, as ever. Do you have business to bring before the court, or is this a social visit of sorts?

Watching as Hawthorne's guard arrives and then nodding before the Baron turns to step away, he turns his attention to the room at large once more, nothing readily visible in his expression about whatever it might have been.

Looking up as No Moccasins strides in, he gives her a once over look, then a glance at Crow before back to the new arrival. He does, however, return the nod given him with one of his own - of exactlingly correct depth.

"Partly a social visit," answers No Moccasins. "It has far too long since I stopped by. But also, word reached me at the Glade that there is an impending conflict in which an extra warrior might be welcome. Is this so?" From the way her granite lips spread into a wide grin, setting loose a shower of gold-and-black flakes, she hopes the answer is in the affirmative.

Standing on the dias with an unused stool set aside presumably for his usage, Hauk appears to be handling the bulk of the petitioners and those reporting in on various things regarded to the County's status since the last open court. He's got a leatherbound notebook in one hand that he alternately reads from, and writes in, as discussions and reports continue.

Crow and No Moccasins are off to one side, the latter having apparently just arrived. The there's no sign, currently, of the Baron himself, or his personal guard though one might here the occasional whisper about him having been here earlier and then departing after his guard arrived and delivered some information or the other.

Maricela enters with a smile that turns to a scowl as the conversation is overheard. "The waters are blackening. Strange things moving below looks like. The baroness has been even more reclusive than usual. She ignores my reports, requests for audience. Im pretty much left to my own devices. Something is wrong. Even if she doesnt care about governing she normally cares about her vices. Its off."

"Sinopia, one of our scouts, is always looking for adventure," No Moccasins nods at Crow's invitation to bring along additional members of the Nunnehi Nation. "You've met her, haven't you, now that I think about it? So, yes - let's see if she's interested." The she-giant turns at the sound of an unfamiliar voice and gives Maricela her attention as she offers new information on the situation.

The shadows at the corners of the audience chamber shift, and out come Baron Hawthorne and his personal guard, three Knights of House Firenne. They are all armed, though the Baron himself is ALWAYS armed, a short sword across his back. The difference is that today it's not peacebound. This is a Stronghold, and these are troubling times.

And yet, the Baron does not interrupt the proceedings. It would seem Sir Hauk has things well in hand, and so the Baron stays off to the side, just another guard ensuring the peace of the stronghold for now.

Of course, Maricela has his attention. Gold bright eyes watching from the clutch of darkness on the edge of courtly drama.

Looking up from his notebook, Hauk focuses his attention on the bit of an exchange between Crow and No Moccasins and then Maricela on her entry. He's not met the new arrival, but they've at least crossed paths once before, and he cocks his head just slightly to one side, "I presume, by that, you're referring to Point Vicente and it's environs? " He asks of Maricela, voice lifted enough to carry, though quiet enough to demand attention and focus all at the same time.

A glance over towards Crow and No Moccasins, and then briefly over to where the Baron enters, really just a flicker of his gaze, before returning to the newly arrived source of information and everyone's current focus, it would seem.

Maricela sighs and collects her thoughts before speaking. Sometimes even a pooka has to be serious. "From the seaside cabin where I live, the clouds are strange. A storm in the dreaming isnt new, and on the rocky coast storms and fogs and monsters below the deep are normal but....the water is changing. It shouldnt be so black in the midst of sunny times of day and the lightning doesnt follow the natural arcs. Ive seen balls of lightning just floating in the clouds. I think someone is masking an airship, or worse but....masking something. Ive reported it but again, empty suit. No answers. Commoners should know their place maybe but I dont know it."

Hawthorne straightens his shoulders, looking at Maricela, gaze intense and as stormy as what she describes. Stepping away from his clutch, he steps over to the dais, but not ONTO it. No. He stays off, but beckons to his Steward to whisper something to him.

These are things beyond the knowledge and wisdom of No Moccasins. The Nunnehi continues to give Maricela her attention though, observing and listening as the ripples of this news spread through the audience chamber.

Hauk listens to Maricela's report, making a few notes as she speaks, and then just before he looks to respond the Baron steps near. He moves to lean in where he can converse with the other man in quiet tones.

Crow straightens as Maricela speaks. She nods slowly at the Woman. "That is.... good to know." she hesitates, glancing in the direction of Hauk and the Baron. "Worrisome, but good to know." her own arms cross as she thinks, sighing. "Your instincts are good, I think. It might behoove you to find a safe place until it has passed." Her gaze turns to Hauk and the Baron, seemingly unsure as to how forthright they're being with regards to the Baroness' disposition.

She quirks a thankful gaze in No Moccasins direction "Sinopia would be of great use to us, if she could discover what the storm is hiding. Even just the general disposition of the area would be well received." The smile she gives is seemingly distracted by her thoughts on Maricela. "I can meet with her to discuss further the matter, should they wish."

Hawthorne whispers at Hauk, expression intent, and then steps back to his group of kil..er..warriors.

"We should all, and always, be concerned with reports of that sort of shifting of things. " Hauk says, flicking his gaze down at his notebook as he jots down a few things in it and returning to his previous spot on the dais, "The information you've brought is received and will be acted upon as is appropriate." He pauses and then allows the focus of his attention to broaden to the room, in part, while he directs his words at Maricela directly. "Those that seek shelter and peace may find it in Xenuhemach, and thank you for taking the step to get us this information in such timely fashion."

Maricela says "I love Pointe Vicente. It has rocks to sun myself on and waters forever that I hope will lure my siren back. Dreams of old lighthouses and fisherman and scallawags and pirates. Its home. I might come stay with you for the short run but I dont want to passively wait for you to help us. Unlike most pooka, I am a Dragoncita Sierra Madre del Sur Oriental. I bite.""

"I make a terrible scout myself," No Moccasins tells Crow, and all she has to do to back up this assertion is spread her arms wide; any movement of her joints projects a noticeable scraping sound of rock-against-rock. "I will send word to Sinopia straight away once I leave here." She then glances back in Maricela's direction. "A Dragoncita who bites?" rumbles the giantess in admiration. "That's a Dragoncita after my own heart then!"

"And teeth may be what is required, given the shape of events as seen from Xenuhemach and helpfully made clearer with your report." Hauk replies easily, but by no means dismissively. Another glance around the Court as a whole, his sapphire blue eyes bright and intent, before they once more land on the Pooka. "Should you find yourself here sheltering, I would imagine that might also be the best opportunity to offer aide to whatever aide my come to your home, though there may - as always - be other avenues of support available. " He offers just a hint of a smile and a glance in No Moccasin's direction, before returning his attention to Maricela.

Maricela nods. "I will sleep here for now if it pleases you Regent. I appreciate that. I can sleep without a knife under my pillow and talk to those knights who are going to help. Im sorry I cant offer any word from Victoria."

Crow shakes her head. "Stay for as long as you feel is necessary, of course. We are not in the habit of forcing people from their homes. 'Tis only a recommendation. A week, maybe two to allow yourself to see the lay of things rather than being caught in the thick of it, so to speak." she cocks her head to one side "Unless you would rather fight for your home. I dare say we wouldn't turn down those capable in a fight with a vested interest in the area." she taps her own blade. "I'd always welcome another sister to draw blades with.

She chuckles in no Moccassins direction, "I don't know. Slap a few branches on and perhaps we could camouflage you as a tree." she laughs a bit more freely, tone teasing though warm. "Their faces would be priceless."

"Victoria speaks loudly enough with her silence."

And suddenly it becomes clear why perhaps the Baron hasn't been speaking so much. The floor vibrates. The lights flicker. And the Regent's displeasure is manifest.

The Ailil Baron frowns, looking away from everyone for a moment and letting out a slow breath over a 5 count. Looking back to Maricela, from his corner, the Regent nods.

And then more quietly, though clearly heard by all, "Dame Crow. Perhaps you could take the dais for a brief time....while I prepare." Prepare for what?

Maricela looks up at Crow. "Sleep here means just that. Im going to fight for it. Es mine. Teresita she loves it. She is very young though. She will grow up to be a great wyrm but right now she's only the right size to like...action figures. I dont want her to get hurt in this. I dont have a blade, but I'm hungry." She quiets herself as Hawthorne speaks.

Hauk folds up his notebook and nods to Maricela, "You are welcome here in peace, and to aide as you can." He says in closing, turning towards where the Baron speaks from and offering the other man a slight nod before he starts off the dias to exchange places with Crow.

The Nunnehi rumbles a laugh at Crow's camouflage. "A rock tree! Now that would be funny, yes." And then at Crow is called upon the Regent, the giantess decides it's time for introductions and she moves closer to Maricela. "I do not believe we have met. I, am No Moccasins, a warrior of the Numuzo'ho tribe of the Nunnehi Nation." She slaps a giant-sized fist over her chest.

Crow offers a bow in the direction of the Baron. "If it pleases you, my Lord." So saying she moves up past Hauk with a "Tag out" and a friendly clap on one shoulder. Taking her place on the dais, she nods to those present. "Of Course, Maricela. WE would not rob you of your chance to defend your home." she shrugs. "I dare say, should you feel the need for one I can acquire a blade for you, though if you prefer fighting tooth and claw, that is in turn your choice.

"Should you have any information about the lay of the land, it would be well received." there is a grim look on her face. "It may well be the difference between life and death for a number of us in the coming days."

Maricela looks all the way up at No Moccasins. "I guess you are." She looks appraisingly over the giant and grins. "At least with a name like No Moccasins you clip yer toenails. Hygiene is so important. What happened to your nose? Your dad was an asshole and played got yer nose with like...troll strength?" She turns and bows to Dame Crow. "I cant threaten to eat yet face off with a sword, Maybe someday youll teach me but right now we only have time for teeth. They arent going to wait for my lessons. You know like if I have to fight someone with poor hygiene?"

No Moccasins gives a soft snort-laugh and shakes her head in response to the hypothetical narrative offered by the Pooka. "I was born from the dreams of Native Americans. In their tales, giants occupy specific roles, and have patterns of specific traits. One of them, is that a giant always lacks a physical feature that a mortal would have. He is missing an eye, or an ear, or the nose, or has no mouth. It marks us as not human." A pause. "It is for the same reason I have horns." THe giantess glances between Maricela and Crow and then mentions, "I am not very dangerous with a sword myself. My body is my weapon, which is both a strength and a weakness, but it is how I was dreamed."

Crow pauses at Maricela's words, a look of costernation on her features. "Maricela." the word is a warning. "I appreciate the stress of the situation you are in, but I would like to remind you that No Moccassins is an Envoy of her people to ours. I would consider my words a bit more carefully in light of that." she pauses. "She is also a fearsome warrior that can turn you into a pretzel. So. Respect where it is due." The words are steely. Though she relaxes somewhat afterwards. "Perhaps in time."

She untenses as the Nunnehi seemingly takes no offense at the words, nodding in turn. "I have some skill in hand to hand, but unfortunately not as much as I would like." she pauses in consideration. "Perhaps once the current matter is dealt with, you could give me some tutelege in the matter. I am always seeking to expand my repetoir."

Maricela nods. "I mean its a nice muscles." She runs a scaled hand over the side of No Moccasins' lower leg. "If I was so big people would be scared. You cant help there but if your going to help me defend my little house, your my people." Her golden scaled face turns back to the knight. "Me teach you? You wanna bite people?"

Bryn walks a winding path, in no hurry to reach actual people. The often-somber Black Shield is smiling just a little, touching bits of bright vegetation with an ungauntleted hand, stopping with eyes closed now and then just to breathe the clean air.

Hafsa arrives quietly and without fanfare, a sandstone statue with eyes of flame, clad in gold-washed armour with a distinctly leonine helm. She settles in near the back of the gathering to listen, with a nod for one or two familiar faces including Crow and No Moccasins.

Not quite a fixture of Court, but a minor feature of the fringe of Changeling Society; Cillian O'Mhuirtheala, chief cook and occasional floor staffer for the Red Lion Tavern, mingles his way through Court with a plate of nibbles and a glass of champagne. Nobody's quite sure where the nibbles came from.

No Moccasins is silent while Crow briefly takes up a defensive stance on behalf of the Nunnehi. "I am always made welcome here and treated with respect," says the she-giant in acknowledgement with a nod of her toward the dias. "I don't think Dragoncita here meant to offend me. Besides -- it shows courage to ask about my lack of nose. She is the first person to do so, in fact." At first No Moccasins is not what to think when the Pooka rubs her leg and remarks upon "nice muscles." But then she booms another laugh as if truly amused now. "Yes, Dragoncita. It is my purpose to defend. I will defend you, and your home, and side by side, we will be one people." Attention shifts back to Crow then. "I would be happy to teach you hand-to-hand, Dame Crow. Perhaps it's possible for me to at least learn to properly throw a knife, and you could teach me something as well?"

Crow laughs lightly at Maricela "I only tend to bite the ones I really like." she smirks, but shakes her head. "I'm open to most forms of unarmed combat. If you've something new and interesting to teach, far be it from me to deny you the opportunity to pass it on. As Bryn and Hafsa arrive, she nods in their direction from her place on the Dais. She's seemingly filling in for Baron Hawthorne in his absence.

"Well met, Bryn. Hafsa. How fares things?" The greeting is polite, drawing them in if they so choose, but not forcing the issue. Her gaze passes over Cillian, offering him a friendly nod as he works his way about the room. As the Nunnehi speaks, she nods in acceptance. "Perhaps not, but it would not be the first time offence was taken where none was meant. If you are content, the matter can be considered dropped." she nods sharply. She quirks a smile of amusemene. "I would like that, indeed. Something equitable can be arranged."

Bryn straightens to their full height, a smile kindling at the sound of that laughter. In short order, the knight finds them, and offers a broad grin to the Nunnehi. There's a half-bow, a little more significant than just a nod, given to Crow and the strangers. No helm, today; the dark hair is mussed and spiky. "Well enough, Winged Lady," the knight says in a soft Southern drawl. "And she of the mighty fists." A slide of a smile to No Moccasins, before Bryn looks to the two strangers, pale eyes bright.

Maricela waggles her brows at Crow and her bit of subtext. "I mean we can talk about that privately. Who knows?" She looks back at No Moccasins. "Okay! Congratulations you just made a friend or something. No no you dont get a choice." She then drops her tone for just one word as she looks into the giants eyes. "Gracias."

"I am honored," says No Moccasins to Maricela with a bow. "Together we will stand, and then afterwards we can each bear witness to the other's brave deeds in battle!" Oh yeah - the after party! It's never far from the giant's mind. She turns her head at others arrive at court. "Bryn, Hafsa, good to see you both," she echoes the greeting by Crow.

Hafsa returns Crow's greeting with a smile and a hand over her heart, but doesn't seem inclined to say much; No Moccasins is met with a similar gesture, and another smile. Greetings returned, Hafsa studies the gathering with some curiosity apparent.

Crow nods "I am glad to hear it, my friend. How go your preperations for the weekend?" she nods in No Moccasins direction "We hope to have a scout deployed ahead of things. Hopefully it will provide us with some useful intel on how we're going to proceed." She pauses a moment. "Ah, but I forget myself, before we delve onto these matters, do either you or Hafsa have any petitions, requests or other official business to bring before the court?" she quirks a half smile "Before I turn the room into a full on War Council." she chuckles in self deprecation.

Something tightens just a little, around Bryn's eyes; not anger, but perhaps just strain, as they watch Crow speak.

"Nothing from me, thank you." Hafsa's voice is rich, with something of the Middle East in her accent; her hand touches her breastplate over her heart again, and she stills, becoming more statue than statuesque, with only the flickering flames of her eyes to give her life.

Maricela smiles widely at the native's offer of comraderie. "Yeah not so different. Im indigenous too, so like I come from a village with one phone for the whole place. i used to tend sheeps with a stick when I was a little girl. People in the cities are very pampered and theyre still whining about like, no wifi at starbucks. They need some callouses, verdad?" She turns back to Crow. "The problem at Pointe Vicente is my biggest worry but when we solve that, we are going to have to talk about crack alley. Dont you guys have a jester I can compare notes with?"

Hauk stands off to one side of the hall, near where Crow was before they tag-teamed each other out, not quite leaning against the nearby wall/tree/support. He's got a leatherbound notebook tucked up under one arm, content for the moment to observe after having stepped away for some few minutes once leaving the dais in Dame Crow's capable hands.

Hawthorne has been off to the side, talking with the members of his personal guard and not standing on the dais. That duty has been given to Dame Crow for the moment as the Regent prepares for something, whatever that is. There is good attendance today, and yet it would appear the Baron is in a dark mood. His personal guard and talking, looking a little aggitated by whatever the topic happens to be, and yet their voices all remain low and in hushed whispers. There is mention of the theatre, the storage rooms. A runner is summoned as one of the knights speaks to the teen eshu girl. She nods to the knight, looking a little shocked, and then runs out of the room faster than some eyes can track.

Crow pauses at Bryn's expression, a look of concern on her own features. "What ails you, Bryn? You seem ill at ease." In Hafsa's direction, she offers a simple nod. "As you wish. My ear remains open, should anything occur to you. She hums a bit, jaw working for a moment. She glances in Hawthorns direction but shakes her head to Maricela. "No. We have no Jester as such. But if you would like to speak with me after tonight? The security of the Realm is within the boundaries of my remit." HEh. A pun on her title. "And I would happily see your concerns."

"Life is different on the Rez," No Moccasins nods to Maricela. "When someone decides to leave it and set up life 'on the outside,' it can be hard. There's a place they can get support though, Spirit Oak Ranch. You should stop by sometime and I will show you the Glade."

"What ails us all," Bryn says quietly. Then the knight's attention turns to Maricela and Hafsa. "Bryn," they say quietly. "Knight of the Black Shield. At your service." The bow that follows is somehow both efficient and graceful.

Not long later, the runner comes back with three trolls. They're carrying boxes. In the boxes are....costumes? Costumes. Some full. Some in pieces. Wigs. Funky glasses. Necklaces. Bangles. Shoes. Feather boas. All in outrageous colors. Fishnet stockings. Corsets. The trolls carry the boxes into the center of the audience chamber and start dumping them onto the floor.

The Lord Regent of the County of the Shattered Scale steps ONTO the dais. Another steps, and he places a hand on Crow's shoulder. Quietly, with a small smile, he looks at his Knight and says, "I am about to ask you to do something....you've never thought either of us would ever do."

And then to the entire crowd he says, "My friends. In light of the coming darkness, I need your help to defend us all. Vibrancy. Life. Color. Music. Joy. Dreams. These are the things that will beat it all back. Please. Take up the appropriate armor, one and all." He motions to the pile of costuming. "And I will lead you into a battle of song and dance."

A band of satyrs comes in from a side door. Setting up instruments, but playing even as they are getting ready. Oh no. It can't be. He wouldn't....but he is Ailil. And he fucking would.

It's The Time Warp.

The Knights of Firenne look disgusted as they are the first to walk over to the pile and start putting on hats and garter belts.

Maricela nods to Dame Crow. "We'll talk for sure." She quirks a brow at Bryn's introduction. "Knight of the Black Shield? Arent you supposed to like, kiss my hand or something?" She tries to surpress her complete curiousity about No Moccasins glade by letting the baron distract her. "Its astounding" she says to Hawthorne by way of reply. There's that crooked grin. She moves over to look at the costumes.

"Are we setting up a casino?" asks No Moccasins in all seriousness. "I see fishnet stockings where I work, every now and then. And feather boas." But she notices the disgust on the looks of the Firenne Knights and confusion sets in. "Dragoncita," she looks at Maricela. "What am I missing? What's going on?"

Bryn ... stares at Hawthorne for a moment, all expression wiped away. And then, the barest flicker of a smile comes, and the knight paces over to find something suitably mod amid all the voile.

Maricela looks at No Moccasins appraisingly. "A corset, a phantom mask, and a boa, like... lets maybe tie two together because we are about to do butt floss. Dont worry I show you what to do.". She nods sagely at the giant as though she were some sort of expert on these whackos and their culture.

Hafsa's head turns when Hawthorne moves; at his announcement, she nods slowly. But that's when the music starts up, and she whips around to stare at the musicians, then through narrowed eyes at Hawthorne. And then she's stalking to the heap of things to capture a feather boa for herself, her face set in an expression that'd be stony even if it weren't made of, um, stone.

Crow sighs, though she nods at Brynn. "Aye." nothing more needs be said, so she doesn't. Leaving the matter lie. Only action would resolve it now. She is about to speak again as the Baron steps onto the Dais and she pauses. She stiffens as the hand lands on her shoulder, but doesn't move. As the colourful pieces are brought in, she looks down at her own mix of leathers and chainmail, all padded and darkened. Then to the Barons own conservative dress. "Ah." she says.

The look on her face is... not what one would call enthusiastic. But. She put life and limb onthe line on a daily basis in service to the court. What was a little skin on display and bright colours in the face of that? (Give her the Fomorian. Any day of the week.) "As... you wish" she offers a weak smile, moving over to the pile of luridly coloured clothing. She laughs lowly as No Moccasins is questioning the Pooka of all people on what was happening.

She starts rooting through the pile.

There's a long moment that Hauk just looks at the chest and its appropriate costumes for .. no, really, that? It's an instant, but then he's making is own way over to the source of garb for this little number and picking through it until he finds..a half bald wig with long dreaded blonde hair on it, a pair of biker's gloves, and .. sheds the pristine white dress shirt he'd been wearing under his dark suit jacket.

"Butt floss?" No Moccasins stares at Maricela, then laughs. "Good thing mine is covered in granite, ha!" And then the Nunnehi strides over to inspect the contents of the emptied boxes. After picking through the pile she holds up fishnet stockings in hot pink. "Regent!" she bellows, looking over her shoulder with a humongous grin as she holds up the stockings. "Will there be time to paint my toenails to match?"

There is a pile of costuming in the middle of the audience chamber. There is a band of satyrs rolling up the intro for The Time Warp. Everyone in attendance is putting on costumes, even the guards, and Hawthorne appears to be the master of ceremonies, grinning like a schoolboy as he focuses and builds up his own glamour.

Maricela selects mardi gras masks instead as she is rooting through the pile. Is it specifically because they have noses on the golden partial face? Maybe, but she puts one on too so No Moccasins will think its just how it is. "Extra extra extra extra large, this should work, its for like the fat bitch at the ren fair, but your big enough to rock it, es supposed to be tight here come on dont be shy about your tits this will make them really pop. Ill do you then you do me, Mongo you ready?"

One of the trolls brings Hawthorne Excalibur. Not the real one, but a prop that looks really really cool. He also gets some funky glasses, a horned viking helmet, and a coat that looks very in keeping with RiffRaff from the show. The music starts to play more in earnest, picking up speed, getting a harder edge to it. The satyrs, it seems, are getting into the party mood, and lending their support. Feeling the wave of emotion, the Regent is already nodding his head as he starts to put on his costume items. He checks an analog watch on his wrist, looking around, hoping that Winnifred will make it in time. He's been stalling, perhaps. Using the sword more like a cane, the Baron adopts a prononced stoop, humping up his back after getting the coat on....

Bryn ends up, appropriately, in black leather pants--rather more form-fitting than he usually sports--and a floofy, romantic pirate shirt.

Winnifred comes fluttering in, dragged by a veritable army of nevers that tug at her hands and her feet anf her dress, one even has her ear. She lands next to her husband, and while confusion is clear she immediately does what he gestures and accepts a costume and wig, pulling them on over her mien with silence onher lips and questions in her dark eyes.

"My tits are encased in granite, people ask me all the time if I have implants, I don't actually need any more pop!" No Moccasins howls with laughter as she and Maricela help each other get costumed-up. "But whatever makes you happy, Dragoncita." There's not going to be time to paint her toenails, the Nunnehi sees, but that's okay. She may not be a fashionista but even she can see that the contrast of hot pink with black works, so she sticks with a limited color palette of black and hot pink as she picks out accessories.

Hafsa puts the feather boa around her neck as she stalks away from the costume pile. Someone really isn't pleased, by the expression on her face and the way she's moving with one hand poised near her belt.

Hawthorne grins almost maniacally...no. Not almost. Like a god damned MANIAC, the Regent with stooped shoulders and pronounced hump, grins like a madman at his wife and purrs out, "Guest List, darling. All these people...." and then he starts singing...badly....but puts his HEART into it.

~It's astounding....time is fleeting...MaDNesS...takes it TOLL....~

And then Lord RiffRaff is turning to the gathering of people, striking a terrifying pose for just how ridiculous and amazing it is all at once, and starts SCREECHING out the lyrics as he starts to bounce around like a Never on three Red Bulls.....

THE TIME WARP BEGINS

Winnifred looks for a moment at her beloved husband like masaaybe she should have asked for a longer courtship? But the pink dress and white cardigan go on, and oh hey, a blonde wig to boot. It all definitely is Astounding, thatmuch is true, and she watches those who had 'normal' high school experiences to getthe gist as the dance begins.

Maricela doesnt seem inhibited on any level. She puts herself and the indigenous giant in panties and corsets at least. No moccasins gets to be barefoot, no one has size 12 shoes but the Dragoncita is in heels. Her outfit is more like the slut versions of the maid you see on halloween than staying true to the film but its black and white and she has a feather duster even if her nips are exposed. She starts off smiling and listening to Hawthorne but by the time her part hits she is dancing around and against No Moccasins using her leg as if she were a giant strip tease pole. "IN ANOTHER DIMENSION, WITH VOYEURISTIC INTENTION, WELL SECLUDED... I SEE ALL!"

Bryn cannot sing. But yelling along with the chorus is just fine, and so is dancing... and whatever the circumstances, the Sidhe knight doesn't look stupid.

Speaking of the Nevers, the wee folk do their Jumbotron effect that Hawthorne taught them to do when he proposed to Winnifred, and soon the lyrics to the song are scrolling across the sky in technicolor so that people know what words to sing.

The Time Warp almost requires that someone present just... not get it. Someone has to be confused and horrified and trying not to look at anyone or anything, just wanting to be somewhere else. Please, in the name of Allah, somewhere else. And so Hafsa, armed and armoured and wearing a rather incongruous feather boa in some sort of attempt to join in, actually fills another role completely.

Crow reservations aside, Crow throws herself into the Dance whole heartedly. It's strage to see the usually reserved Sidhe out of her usual garb. The Sparkling top hat she's sporting just draws attention to the crimson burning at the end of her long pointed ears. Though probably have as much from exertion as it is from the humiliation. For all that, though, the general mood is infectious and she finds herself grinning along. For all that, though, she is emminently glad of her blessing. It means that at the end of it all, she manages to pull off her part with aplomb.

Rocky Horror Picture Show is really truly beyond the scope of what No Moccasins has learned about culture outside the Bishop Paiute Reservation where she was born. But she doesn't need to know. Her giantess soul understands that battles are fought in diverse ways, on many levels. In other words? Sometimes, sacrifices must be made! And so, for the first time ever in her many, many lifetimes lived in a mortal shell, the Nunnehhi's leg stands in as a pole for erotic dancing. By a Pooka. Singing seems to be a part of the performance as well. Well, here it goes! The 8-foot tall giant spreads her arms out and up in a "V," shifts her hips from side to side, and bellows at the top of her lungs, "LEEEETS DOOOO THE TIIIIME WARP AG-AAAAIN!"

Having slipped on a pair of way oversized black sunglasses to complete the look just in time, Hauk waits with .. unexcited anticipation for this event to begin, but.. as terrible a singer as he is, and by no means a dancer, he belts out the chorus on time and in step - even going quite so far as to drag Crow into a spin, a twirl and a dip without dropping her with a mad sort of manic, if perhaps forced, smile.

Someone starts passing out water guns and toilet paper...hot dogs and rice......

Somewhere along the way, Hawthorne starts trying to tap dance. He's miserable at it, and yet he doesn't make a fool of himself. Stupid Sidhe.

Maricela cant sing either but fortunately neither can the person she's trying to imitate, she looks over shoulder and up toward No Moccasin's panties to emphasize her line, "I see all.". Because when your pooka, that what you do.

Crow is taken almost completely by surprise as she is ambushed by Hauk. His 'skill' as a dancer isn't to be sniffed at(or maybe that's Crows reflexes saving her from disaster. Hard to tell). He may have a grip on her, but on the dip, she can't help but anchor herself, leg like an Iron bar pinning him to her, meeting his own forced grin with one of her own. The initial panic over her sudden dance partner fades and there is playful retribution in her gaze.

Winnifred is quickly overwhelmed with the light show and the screaming and the movement. Her hands come over her ears and her eyes squint tightly shut but still and all she dances as best she can. There will certainly be unintended bumping and bungling.

The music swells. The energy builds. A riotous cacaphonous pagan ritual amassing and gathering up the glamour that the Baron has sacrificed, building it, shaping it. Someone, locked away in a secret place, there is a Book. And in the book are True Names. A pass key for those who would otherwise not be allowed in once the shield rises.

As the song goes on, as he dances, as the crowd builds toward the inevitable end when everyone is supposed to fall over, Hawthorne begins to sing out his intentions.

All Are Welcome In Xenuhemach Stronghold. All Are Free to Seek Shelter and Peace. All But Those of Fomorian Blood, lest they Sign the Book of Passing.

All Are Welcome In Xenuhemach Stronghold. All Are Free to Seek Shelter and Peace. All But Those of Fomorian Blood, lest they Sign the Book of Passing.

All Are Welcome In Xenuhemach Stronghold. All Are Free to Seek Shelter and Peace. All But Those of Fomorian Blood, lest they Sign the Book of Passing.

THRICE AND DONE!

The music comes to a halt, dragging down to a crashing end. Glamour flares and explodes and spreads.

And with everything finished, and people on the floor, there's a rustle from where Hafsa's managed to find some steps to climb, her feather boa left at the bottom as she backs up them with horror writ large on her face.

Crow is taken almost completely by surprise as she is ambushed by Hauk. His 'skill' as a dancer isn't to be sniffed at(or maybe that's Crows reflexes saving her from disaster. Hard to tell). He may have a grip on her, but on the dip, she can't help but anchor herself, leg like an Iron bar pinning him to her, meeting his own forced grin with one of her own. The initial panic over her sudden dance partner fades and there is playful retribution in her gaze.

No Moccasins, it would seem, had a grand ole' time. In the moments before the bunk wound down and script of "The Time Warp" would require performers to fall down to the ground, she had even picked up Maricela with both arms, held her horizontal and "flown" her around in space as if the Pooka were an airplane, repeating the chorus without any trace of embarrassment for hot pink panties, corset, stockings or screech-singing. The she-giant, now lying on the floor like the others, begins to laugh. Really laugh. Great bellows from deep in her fae soul boom out and as they subside she declares, "Great Spirit, bless these fellow Children of the Dream, that we might have victory over the enemy."

Winnifred collapses to the ground when the glamour goes off, unknowingly properly ending the dance. Slooowly she opens her eyes and tugs her bony white fingers from her ears. Understanding has come and she unfolds herself to stand once again, flickering her wings to make sure they are still in good form. Her eyes go first to the Regent, making sure he has not collapsed from spending all his power at once and then slowly turn and blink out over the assembled. So many! And so many faces she does not know.

Maricela laughs and laughs, allowing herself to be flown like a childs toy and collapsing on the giant at the end. "Marvelous dahling," and then a giggle fit before she gets her wind back.

Crow lies on the ground as the song ends. "Right. Well." she shifts uncomfortably. That was certainly a thing, and it had definitely just happened. At Hafsa's own laughter, she manages a strained smile, slowly sitting up herself, making her way over to where her clothes are. She fully intends to be back in her usual outfit as soon as was physically possible.

Hauk gives his head a bit of a shake from where he lies on the ground, tugging off gloves, glasses and the rest of his bits of costume about as quickly as is really possible. Sitting up he glances around, runs the fingers of one hand through his hair and lets out an explosive breath. "Alright then." And he too is moving to get back into more .. presentable shape.

Bryn's armor is restored. Thankfully. The knight paces across toward Crow, expression a little dark and serious.

Hawthorne is, actually, on the floor. He hasn't collapsed, but he's down to one knee. One hand on the floor, head lowered. He breathes hard, spending all of that glamour and will in one go. But he is still Sidhe, and still the Lord of this hold. Slowly he rises, looking around as he pulls off the helmet and the glasses, letting them fall to the floor to be collected. Even dropping the prop sword. As he sees the effect he's had, feels how the Dreaming is with him, Hawthorne smiles slowly and says to the audience, "We've done it, my friends. The stronghold is warded against the enemies of the Dream. It isn't a perfect solution, but it will do what needs for now. Thank you all. Thank you. Sir Hauk, perhaps you could take the dais unless my Lady, Winnifred, wishes to take a turn." But he's turning and walking toward Winnifred, pulling her into his arms.

No Moccasins follows suit in changing back into her usual garb, but she is not a hurry. "What's this called again?" she asks Maricela, referring to the corset. "I mean, I've seen them, I just forget what it's called." A beat. "I've never worn stockings before...They don't really sell this stuff in my size, ya know?" Ramble ramble ramble. "I think I like hot pink. I bet I can find a size 6X t-shirt in hot pink, whaddya think, Dragoncita?"

with everything said and done, Crow looks much happier back in her usual outfit. She quirks a questioning eyebrow in Bryns direction, noticing their approach. She nods in Hawthornes direction, thankful to be relieved of the responsibility of the Dais for a while. She's not entirely sure how she'd have handled it after that event. She will likely be fleeing as soon as she can to come to terms.

Winnifred allows herself to be wrapped up in the Regents arms, and though she does not seem strong, it turns out that she is strong enough to support him in this moment. Soft whispers are shared and after some moments she releases him to be led by some Nevers back to their private rooms for rest and reflection. That done she turns as she removes her wig, shimmering black hair poofing out a bit and makes her way to curtsy before Hauk, though she does not wait for recognition to rise again as she speaks softly to him.

Hauk gives himself a bit of a shake, settling his jacket back into place and picking that notebook back up from where ever he stashed it and tucking it under his arm as he nods towards the Baron when asked to take up that position again. He waits, of course, to see if the Baroness, instead, will wish to do so and as he does so his attention's caught by Bryn and he spares a glance for the shield they carry - one that lingers a long heartbeat or two before moving on. And then he offers the perfectly appropriate bow to Winnifred in turn as she approaches and the two exchange a few quiet words.

Maricela grins. "I mean you have such tight abs you could definitely do a half shirt. Its called The Time Warp. It was passed down by the Arcadians like right after the moon landing thats why theyre in charge now. We were like you beetches you you left us, and theyre like ok true but...its just a jump to the left." She snerks. "I can find you whatever you want in hot pink chica!"

Bryn tips their head at Crow. "No word from the Duke?" they ask quietly.

Apparently being the Regents wife does not immure one from compliments, as Winnifred gives Hauk a small smile and lowered lashes at having been flattered. "They will have to put up with me speaking to one at a time." she murmurs agreeably and then turns, a gesture of her hands sending a flurry of Nevers back to the Hanging gardens on some errand as a mere commoner turns and steps up the dais to take the high seat, perching on the very edge so that her wings might fit.

Maricela grins. "I mean you have such tight abs you could definitely do a half shirt. Its called The Time Warp. It was passed down by the Arcadians like right after the moon landing thats why theyre in charge now. We were like you beetches you you left us, and theyre like ok true but...its just a jump to the left." She snerks. "I can find you whatever you want in hot pink chica!" (re)

"Just a jump to the left, eh?" No Moccasins seems amused by the story Maricela recounts by way of explaining "The Time Warp." The notion of wearing a cropped-length t-shirt is a novelty for the Nunnehi, who pauses to consider. "Maybe showing off a bit of my abs would distract people from the fact there's a sunken cavity on my face where a nose should be?" she suggests with a chuckle. "Or not!"

Crow slowly pulls her gloves tight, one at a time, till they are once again a second skin. She shakes her head in Bryn's direction, responding with a quiet "None yet" of her own. "But it's only been 24 hours. We will have to wait.... and trust." she grimaces, her own expression translating her feelings on that quite vocally. Once again armed and armoured, she crosses her arms and sighs. "The waiting is the worst part." they state, grimly.

"Yeah," Bryn agrees darkly.

Maricela chuckles. "I mean thats the beauty of it no one's looking anyway except your dad whose all I should not have played got yer nose Im so sorry." She laughs as she pulls her wife beater over her inked flesh. "But I tell you what, you protect my house and my little Teresita....I will find you a nose. The thing about dreams is, nothing is impossible unless you think it is. Youll have a sexy nose, even if its like made out of putty."

Before too much time passes a phalanx of Neverscreturns with the young Sluaghs sketch pad and pencild, placing them on a small table next to her in case she needs to 'speak' above a whisper during her duties. Then she settles with her wings open and her hands folded in her lap and attenpts to look approachable. Or as approachablecas a kith of night and shadow and rot can be.

And when anyone thinks to look for her, the armoured statue with the eyes of flame has vanished as well. Either that, or Hafsa really did manage to persuade the floor to open up and swallow her.

"I have medicine that lets me change aspects of my appearance," No Moccasins replies to Maricela. "But...I am a giant. Giants are usually ugly. It is how my tribe are dreamed to be. So I'm not sure how comfortable I would be going against that. Besides." The Nunnehi thumps her mid-section and grins. "LIke you said. I have killer abs. I am blessed with many gifts. I have the strength of a bear, the endurance of solid rock. There is no room for me to wish for a nose." She glances toward the dais and then says, "Let us go and greet the Seneschal, shall we?"

Maricela cracks her neck a little. "Its like your saying I have no choice but to be an asshole but I get to choose....sometimes." She goes with No Moccasins agreeably enough. "Yeah ok Ill follow your lead."

Winnifred has passed many a quiet morning taking the slow periods on the dais, as seneschal it is part of her duties of course, but not the one she is perhaps best suited for. So when someone makes her way up, she perks, straightening and then picking up her sketchpad. Her pencil flows over ip in careful sweeps and it is then turned around, a clearly legible feminine script reading <Welcome, it has been too long since I have had the pleasure. How may the court be of aid?"

No Moccasins leads Maricela towards the dais, where the Nunnehi offers the seneschal a quarter-bow. The sight of the sketchpad with a written message takes her a little by surprise. She has to outright bend down to read it. Then she straightens and says, "It has been a long time indeed, Winnifred. I simply wanted to say hello." A glance between the Sluagh and the Pooka. "Dragoncita, do you know Winnifred already?"

Maricela shakes her head. "I never seen her before. Hello Winnifred. I am the Lady Maricela Pilar Chavez De Las Herras Gomez Castille y Morera Cardinale de Nada Especial." She poses ostentatiously after the litajy of her name. "And hello.."

Winnifred pauses for just a moment and then her head tilts in comprehension. She has luckily been spending a great deal of time with her ward. The paper is filled again with swirling script and turned. "Thank you both for aiding in protecting this place of refuge." she bows her head solemnly to make it clear thes are not just words.

No Moccasins cants her in a similar gesture when faced with the eternal list of names offered by Maricela. "So, you want to throw down the gauntlet, eh?" she teases. "I am lacking in names, by comparison. Today, I am merely Jenna Fire Thunder, No Moccasins, Strength-of-Mountains-in-Her-Shoulders. But I'll catch up with you one day Little Dragon, you'll see!" Then she peers to read the Sluagh's new message. "Ah, protection? A ward of some sort was created, that's what that was about? Well, singing and dancing are not my usual moves, but a good warrior never stops adding to her repertoire!" "How have you been, Winnifred? What have I missed while busy at the ranch?"

From out of the shadows, he walks like a dream...or maybe Eddie and the Cruisers....but NO, it is Baron Hawthorne, walking back in and looking a little rested in comparison to before. He doesn't take the dais, but watching his Senechal in the role with a little smile.

Maricela shrugs and yawns before pretending to examine her fingernails. "You can try sure." She looks at Winnifred. "No need to thank me, it was more about getting Jenna topless than any actual give a shit on my part. If it also helps the dreaming, hooray" She smirks. "I mean if I have to work with you guys I guess I will."

Winnifred nods to No Moccasins educated guess, and then swoops out <<Got Married>> in big, fancy letters. and then she gives Maricelaa hopeful smile and scribbles to add <<We are not so bad, and the scenery is nice (look behind you)>>

"Got married?!" No Moccasins exclaims. "Who is the lucky man?" (This shows just how out of the loop the Nunnehi is in terms of happenings over here at the Stronghold.) She glances down at Maricela and can only shake her head. "If you want to see a topless giant, Little Dragon, you should come swim in the lake at the Glade. Or, alternately, you could join me in the Sweat Lodge." The giantess looks at Winnifred then. "The invitation is open to you as well, of course. You are always welcome at North Star Cavern."

Hawthorne clears his throat, and then covers his hand with his mouth. His gold bright eyes twinkle as he watches this all play out. Is he going to help his wife? Eventually, but if she needs it, she's good at getting her husband's attention.