Of Death (Open)

Dusk. Heavy rain. The mansion of the vi Rauco family, just outside of wall Sina. It technically was part of the Interior District, but at the same time it clearly was not.

The building itself was an imposing thing, build in a Gothic style, and on this weather, it looked very, very ominous. The lights on all three stories were lit, as the family was hosting a party.

A masquerade party, at that. As to why this was the situation, actually no one really knew, except Ex-Captain Adar vi Rauco. He hasn't told even his own son or wife. But of course, this information about the lack of information wasn't public. After all, secrets only attract more secrets, even if only to cover themselves.


The atmosphere inside of the building was pretty cozy, greatly contrasting with the cold and dark of the outside. Of course, the architecture, along with the many weapons that adorned the walls and the forbidden books being blatantly displayed on the shelves, would give the place an air of willingly exaggerated mix of elegance and display of power. To this added up the many masked people inside, making the place even yet more over the top. Indeed, Adar vi Roval did not believe in half measures.

As to where the man itself would be, even that was uncertain. At the head table, there were two masked figures, clad in the exact same way: A great cloak covering the whole body, half-white and half-black, and an expressionless mask in the same coloring hiding the face. The only difference was that the outfits were mirrored: if one had the white on the left, the other would have it on the right. By constitution, voice, and manner of behaving, one would be able to identify them as Adar and Auth vi Racuo. But which was which... that was a whole different story.


By the time it was now, all the guests should have already arrived. Of course, a small time to allow those unlucky ones still in the rain to arrive was still in order, but more a formality than a necessity. Soon enough, the official opening of the ceremony would be made. Right now though, the hosts stood by themselves at a table, fervently discussing something.

//OOC: Do join in! It is an attempt to resurrect the forum, so take the chance and run with it. Of course, many things are still planned about this not revealed yet, but it'll get to those in due time. For now, come join the party!

Alan sighed under his belled-hat and smiling mask. He could think of many better ways to spend a rainy night. Most alternatives did not include hanging out with his crooked superiors for the sake of courtesy.
It was fairly obvious to anyone that the Military Police would be among the invited to their previous Captain's party. However, due to the nature of the current officials of the Military Police, guards were often brought to protect them from any harm, and make sure they make it back alright, after all their drinks. Alan was selected for such a job, because of his tendency to not drink at all.

Alan turned his gaze from the rain-covered window and looked over at the officials who were sharing his cart. They were chatting up loudly, and even with their masks, they were quite easy to recognize. Ralf Volkard, a particularly prominent Captain of the Military Police, was especially easy to tell apart, due to the fat sticking out under his silky, colorful mask. Alan assumed that would make the job of protecting him from potential threats harder. He was just glad that his facade was quite convincing - he looked just like a jester. All he needed to do was to act differently, and maybe alter his voice, and no one would recognize him. Alan assumed this would be fantastic practice for attempting to hide his persona under a mask.

The cart finally stopped outside the grand mansion, which seemed sort of eerie in the heavy rain and the last rays of sunlight. That being said, Alan was rather comfortable knowing he would be near Auth. Not because he trusted him to keep him safe - on the contrary. He just assumed that if something were to go wrong somehow, Auth would be able to take care of it. Such was the way of the vi Racuos. Alan looked around as he entered the halls of the great building, astonished by the amount of books lining the walls. However, he soon remembered his order of business and started tailing the fat figure of Captain Volkard, who was already heading towards the platters scattered across the tables. Alan tried to change his walking posture, to move more freely and playfully. He would normally feel like a fool doing so, but seeing as he was wearing the appearance of a fool, it seemed to fit.

Mitsuo decided to walk to the party, he didn't really mind getting his outfit wet... made him look all the more interesting. He was dressed in a black top hat that had gold trimmings and a gold blazer that had black trimmings and tails, a strip of cloth ringed the too hat and was that of a copper colour which matched his waistcoat. He alsowore a silver tie and a white dress shirt that fitted wih his black trousers. He had the look of a fancy but crazy engineer as his suit was lined with dark grey gears pipes that seemed to jut out but be attached. To finish of his look he had a bronze half mask which covered he top half of his face, and a light grey eyepatch that covered his left eye.

Mitsuo stepped through the door and looked around, a preety nice place... who was he kidding all he could describe the mansion was with the word, "Awesome." He could not have missed the opportunity to miss a big party event, especially if it was a masquerade party. Mitsuo strode through into the main room with elegancy where he made small talk to other attendants and patiently waited for the hosts to make heir speeches and start the party.

Severin stood at attention in the cormer of the room, holding a violin and in formation with several other men and women who also held various instruments.He was wearing a crimson jacket with a leather shoulder cushion on the left. Roses were etched into the fabric and ran along the entirety of the garment. Overall, the jacket was about the same size as the military uniform jackets. On his face was a painted metal mask that left only Severin's eyes uncovered, although through a layer of black fabric. A single, curling rose was engraved in the mask, the bloom covering where Severin's mouth and nose would be. The mask was the same color as the jaxket, but the rose was a deep red, almost a mahogany color. Severin's hands were covered in black gloves that looked velvety and soft. As for the pants amd shoes, short black boots and plain red pants were all that was down there, held up by a black leather belt with a rose buckle that shome in the light of the mansion.Severin's costume was eerily elegant, and hid his identity completely.
How did he get into the ball, to the home of the monster called Adar vi Rauco? It was actually quite simple. He had simply gained membership of the band the orderly had arranged. And so Severin stood, indirectly eyeing Adar as he awaited the music to begin playing. Well, when Adar wanted the music to start playing. Then he would put those years spent in learning the violin to use.  

Mentally, Severin chuckled at the little getup Auth and Adar had gotten themselves into. That didn't deter Severin from finding out which one was Adar. Severin had etched everything about the bastard into his mind, but Severin remained calm. It was a party after all, and he wanted to relax a bit and play some music before he made any moves.

The hosts gave short looks towards the clock in the room, but only fleetingly, as their discussion was obviously more important. It only lasted a few more words from each of them though, and they turned their attention towards the crowd.

Rise in unison, walk in the exact same step, take the very same posture. It made you wonder, was it just two people who rehearsed doing this a lot, or were it truly just the same man doubled in an illusion? And by all means, it could have been. Either way, they spoke in the same voice as well, and by the way of modulation, it either were two perfectly identical and synchronized voices or only one.

'Welcome!' Both figures gestured widely with both hands. 'It is our great pleasure to have all of you attend here this evening, as no doubt it is also yours to be here.' A fluid movement returning from the large gesture earlier back to their original posture. 'A dinner will be served later, and drink from our personal stock will be served during the entirety of the event. Except to members of the MP, they'll only get water and bread, for obvious reasons.' Needless to say this was meaningless: with everyone masked, there was no way of telling who was MP and who not. Technically, at least. 'For now, let us just enjoy ourselves. The music, if our kind band may. Oh, don't you worry, dear artists. By all means, you are part of this party, and feel free to drink, and later eat, at your leisure.' With that, both figures bowed, placing their white hand on their chest and the black one extended backwards.

They rose back up and walked through behind a small curtain before splitting up and joining the party themselves. This way, the incertitude about whether their duality earlier was an illusion or not would still be in effect.

***

Now, the black-and-white figure walked up to the very-poorly-disguised and very-obviously-worried Captain Volkard, as well as his group.

'Why, hello there, kind sers.' The same uncertain voice. It was obvious the Raucos weren't planning to make it easy to tell which is which. 'A glass of wine, and a friendly talk, perhaps?'

Needless to say, most of the men would be relieved now. This was proof the earlier statement about what the MP would be served was, in very deed, a mere joke.

***

At the same time, the white-and-black figure walked up to the curiously-dressed individual that had just arrived. Versed in mechanical works, or at least so pretending, and seemingly not too annoyed by the rain outside. He wasn't looking very troubled at his wet clothing either.

'Hello, kind ser.' The white-and-black host leaned over a wall. 'If I may be excused for judging appearances, but you look like a more-than-interesting fellow. As such, a talk? And possibly some wine, if you'd prefer?'

Alan smiled as he listened to the greeting of the two masked gentlemen. It appeared that Auth was not the only one in the family who valued secrecy and deception. While it was nice to know that Adar vi Racuo was as witty as he was powerful, it did raise a few questions. Adar always struck Alan as a more mature, honest and powerful version of Auth. What if much of that was due to a mastery of deception as well?
Alan shook his head, and regained focus. By then, one of the black-white robed figures approached Captain Volkard and his collection of esteemed Military Police soldiers. Alan saw small droplets of sweat roll down the fat neck of his superior as he was talking to Adar.... or was it Auth? Alan wasn't able to tell. His eyes darted to the identical robed figure, who was by the entrance. There was no visible fault that could reveal the robed figure's identity. Alan figured that maybe by talking to one of them for an extended time, he could perhaps tell who the person was.
Alan returned his gaze to Captain Volkard, who seemed relieved that he could indeed drown himself in wine, as was his usual habit. Alan decided that he was going to stick to bread and water.
It seemed that the Captain was interested with more drink and less talk, as he quickly got ahold of a cup and started downing, laughing loudly at the jokes his fellow militants made. The black-and-white robed figure still stayed near him, perhaps to remain courteous. While the fat Captain has exchanged some words with the mysterious man near him, it didn't seem like he was very interested. Alan knew that one such as Volkard was more interested in womanizing and drinking than anything else in this bloody party.

Alan approached the vi Racuo carefully. He had to select his next few words carefully, because he did not know who the person in front of him was. The son knew of his plans, and was helping Alan out with his preparations. The father was a figure Alan admired, perhaps even aspired to be like. Alan wasn't sure how much information was passed around between them, but knowing Auth's tendency to keep secrets, he assumed Adar didn't know about his plans... at least not from his son.
"You made quite a show out there" Alan finally said to the robed figure, trying to add a more playful and sly sound to his voice. Perhaps, with the mask and the voice, they couldn't recognize him either. Still, Alan was sure the vi Racuos will figure out who he is long before he finds out who they are.

Mitsuo turned to the voice that he assumed was directed at him and he was correct. He turned to face on he hosts as a smile crept on his face, "I wouldn't mind having a glass of wine and I wouldn't mind talking either, especially if you have taken suh an interest in my suit," the young Shimura chuckled. He didn't ty to alter his voice in an attempt to stay anonymous as he didn't really care if people recognised him. 'I do wonder if my parents will show up,' Mitsuo thought to himself, 'highly unlikely though.'

He decided to make slight conversation with the one of the two vi Racuos, "That was quite the performance,  did it take long to learn to be that synchronised or did you not have to learn at all? " He patiently waited for the host's response by putting on some brown leather gloves before checking a golden pocket watch.

Severin nodded at the vi Raucos and began playing a rather haunting piece, further accentuating the atmosphere. As the Rose played his music, he took note of the different aspects of the interior. A lot has changed since he had last been in here. As the violin dipped into and out of the lower tones,Severin moved with his violin. He leaned this way and that, flowing with the music he was playing. The rest of the band had picked up by now, and a cello could be heard entering the sonic playing field,accompanied by a viola. It was a rather classical setup, but an enchanting and effective one nonetheless. What started as a violin solo was now a full,rich musical sound that hung in the air, giving it more mystery than when the masquerade had started. Severin slowly moved towards the white and black cloaked man who was conversing with a gear man, still playing. He spun on his heels as he walked, and the guests cleared out of his way as the Rose played his music.Stopping just short of the two, Severin stood directly behind the cloaked figure.Je gently nudged the vi Rauco's shoulder, and stopped in between measures to hold up a three and then a four with his fingers before shrugging. Severin gave Mitsuo a greeting nod during a lull in the music and then put his head back into the cushion and resumed playing his piece.

The black-and-white host chuckled a bit at the 'jester' man's choice of words. As Captain Volkard was much too busy with his drink now, he wasn't going to mind the host changing discussion partners in the least.

'Why, thank thee kindly!' Of course, it sounded enthusiastic and at the same time so very awfully like mockery. 'Excuse my curiosity, but might I ask why thy choice of garments?' He leaned back, taking a full glass of wine from the table and offering it to his new discussion partner. 'I mean, not all people would be all right going about dressed in jester's clothing.'

The black-and-white host looked around, lingering his sight fleetingly over his mirror image. Neither of them planned on answering questions that weren't asked first.

***

The white-and-black host chuckled at the 'mechanic' man's comment. 'Well, it's going to be up to you to decide which to believe.' He made a small pause. 'Also, mechanic, parents... you probably are who I think you are, except of course if you are not.' Ah, talking in meaningless sentences. One of the great pros to masquerade parties like this one.

He suddenly felt a small nudge on his shoulder. He turned around slowly, looking for the man that wised to attract his attention. His doubts, sprung by the increasing volume of the music, were confirmed in the violin man.

'Amazing performance, dear rose-mouthed artist.' Of course, roses weren't the most welcome sight in the Rauco house, due to various reasons. None of them would be openly shown though. 'Wonderful outfit. Might I ask why a rose for a mouth? Of course, presuming it wouldn't bother you to answer.'

The white-and-black figure turned a bit to the side, tilting it's head. It was as if to inspect something he might've seen on the wall. The true reason was, of course, to have the other figure see its back, in order to confirm the presence or absences of anything unnatural there. It would have to wait until a little later to also hear the answer though, and so the host returned to his position, now facing both the 'mechanic' and 'rose-mouth'.

Alan stared at the host in front of him as he was thinking of a suitable response to his question. The truth behind Alan's getup was the fact that he wanted to practice hiding his identity, so that when the time was right he could do so without a problem. However, even to himself it wasn't clear why he went with the theme of a jester. Perhaps as subtle mockery of his superiors, who thought themselves as lords and royals among peasants, or another cruel joke of the sort.
"I'm not very good with jokes." Alan finally replied slowly, smiling under his mask "I figured I'd let the clothing do the talking for me."

Alan froze for a second before accepting the black-and-white clad man's drink. By instinct, he would never accept such a drink, for he resented alcohol. However, Auth knew that fact. If it were Auth standing before him, and not his father, then refusing the drink would be a very obvious giveaway.
I'll take the drink.... but I won't drink it he concluded in his mind.
"Thank you." Alan politely nodded his head, letting his bells ring, as he graciously accepted the wine of his host.
"If you do not mind ME asking, good sir, I'd love to know why you went with the black/white color scheme. Does it represent anything?" Alan eyed the man in front of him, looking for any slip-up, any clue that could give away their identity.
He was rather enjoying this game of detective work. While his skills needed a bit more sharpening, this evening was turning much more interesting than he originally thought.

Mitsuo smiled and quoted the host in reply to if the host recognised him, "It's going to be up to you to decide which to believe." He saw the rose violinist approach and watched as the rose mouth stole the attention of the masked illusionist.  "The musoc is certainly well played, I praise you,' Mitsuo smiled and bowed to the man in red. "I am quite curious as to why a rose for a mouth too but then again, I cannot speak as I have dressed up in gears and pipes." Mitsuo chuckled at his own remark before looking around the room at everyone's different get-ups and he swore he saw a jester, 'that'll just have to wait,' he stated in his mind.

Severin sighed and stopped playing as the half-and-half man turned away from him."Thanks fpr the compliments. But, Mr. vi Rauco, I came here to ask when you wanted us to start the waltz." Severin's voice sounded different than it normally did, due to him accenting it and the mask affecting how he sounded. "Unless you are Mr. Adar's son. Then I'll go ask him." The Rose pointed to the other figure dressed in white and black. "Regarding this whole rose thing, it's supposed to signify I prefer my music do the talking.Also, my mother help made this, and she really likes roses. She REALLY likes roses." In reality, he alone had modified an extra Garrison uniform into his mystery facade. He never really had a mother, but it wasn't evident in his voice. "Also, Mr. vi Rauco, this is quite a mansion you've got here. One of the biggest houses I've played jn." Severin put the violin back on his shoulder and played a long, low note, promptong the rest of the band to stop. "We're ready to do the waltz whenever, Mr. vi Rauco." The Rose simply looked at the cloak, waiting for him to answer.

The black-and-white host gave a controlled laugh. 'Why, if this is how you present yourself, Mr. Jester, I can say you have a much better taste of humor than most people I know.' The figure raised a single hand to his mask, and a very faint 'click' was heard. Obviously, it must have been the mask detaching it's lower part. Of course, the black-and-white host used his hand to cover his mouth while discreetly sipping from his wine, as, while really not as much to keep his identity anonymous, it wouldn't be courteous to show a part than should be hidden at a masquerade ball. It was one of the things that came with wearing a full mask instead of a half-one.

'As for my attire, I see no reason not to share it's meaning. Black and white represent purity and mischievousness. Yet one cannot be without the other. Equilibrium.' He kept gesturing while explaining. Certainly nothing more and nothing less than the habits of a man used to explaining. 'I see us, the vi Raucos, as the same thing. A mirrored image is not by any means opposite. Or while it might be, when you mirror the equilibrium, what do you get?' He made a meaningful pause, to show the rhetoric character of the question. 'A twisted around version of it. But how to you twist around balance? And then, even if you did indeed get something else, how is it any less valid? And, really, what does it differ in?' He took a pause, and motioned to the other host. 'This is what we embody here. The balancing of balance. Opposition of opposite-less concepts. Plus and Minus zero. How you see this concept yourself though, that we cannot influence. We merely launch the hypothesis. Refining it, that is every individual mind's job.'

The black-and-white host leaned back, sipping the wine again, just as carefully as earlier. It was obviously the sign that he finished. But wasn't it also a sign of the carefulness and finesse you should extert in more abstract problems? What was, after all, politeness...?

* * *

The white-and-black host smiled underneath the mask at the responding comment. He wasn't expecting an answer, but this one was all the more interesting. Still, his main attention point was the Mr. Rose-Mouth.

'My, indeed she must've liked roses, to put so much detail into it. One might almost mistake it for the garrison emblem...' In truth, one hardly could. But for someone to choose exactly the rose as the flower to use, with it being emblem to one of the military branches... While coincidence was indeed still a possibility, it wasn't as likely as the counter-theory. As such, the compliment had the objective of possibly getting a reaction. It was, though, unlikely to do so. 'As for regarding the waltz, neither of us hosts really is sure when that should start. I'll wildly guess that after the main feast though, as it is common. I will indeed still have to consult my mirrored image on it though.' All calculated words. This man made it very obvious he was looking from who is who actively. As such, no hints should be dropped to him to catch onto. While his reasons might indeed have been mere curiosity, it made some eerie correlation with the other hypothesis. No risks would be allowed to be taken here.  'I see he is caught in conversation now though. As such, I'll remain here while he finishes. Rest assured, you will know what to do before the feast... Hopefully...'

//OOC: Come on guys! Don't let this forum die!

Alan listened to the cloaked man's words, and pondered. He raised the glass of wine to his lips, which he revealed by moving the mask slightly, and tilted the glass so it seemed he was taking a sip, although he was not. The sweet texture of the wine on Alan's lips was sickening to him, so he removed the glass from his face, and gulped at nothing. Adar... or Auth, was talking about the concept of balance. Although Alan had a keen mind, he felt like he couldn't truly grasp the essence of the host's words, so he decided that smiling and nodding should be the best course of action. Alan kept a close watch on the black-and-white clad figure, noticing and evaluating every gesture, every gentle sip. Alan understood that the man in front of him did not want to give away his identity, but Alan was going to try finding out nevertheless.

Finally, the robed man finished his words. Alan's eyes drifted off to where Captain Ralf Volkard was only a few moments ago, but he found him gone. He quickly turned to scan the hall, and found the fat, ill-disguised man chatting if a rather-not-modestly-dressed woman on the other side of the hall, by some steps. Unfamiliar people, all in masks were around the Captain. However, he did not seem the least concerned. Alan assumed it was either because he trusted Alan to do his job, or because he was an ignorant buffoon. Alan sighed quietly under his mask and turned to the gracious host, who was still standing beside him.
"I must apologize, but it seems I am needed elsewhere. I hope to speak to you again." he said with a seemingly playful tone, which was hard to pull off when talking about such boring business. Alan bowed courteously to the robed man in front of him, letting his bells ring for a bit before standing back up and walking quickly towards the unsuspecting Military Police captain. Alan grabbed a piece of bread from a nearby platter, as he put his still-full wine glass on it. He tore at the loaf like a feral dog, hungry after a day of hard work, and kept walking towards the Captain. By the time he got to Ralf, it seemed that he got turned down by the lady he was talking to. The Captain, while still loud and jolly, seemed a little less than usual. Alan would have felt bad for the man, if he did not know of all the heinous crimes he committed. Alan stood in silence by the fat captain who was talking to some grandiosely costumed couple. Alan could easily recall the wrongs done by this captain. Truth be told, he remembered all the known wrongs of ALL the Military Policemen.
Ralf Volkard, Military Police Captain Alan recited in his head Son to a wealthy family,he managed to buy his way into the Military Police, rather than work for it. The reason his family pushed him towards this not-so-bright career was so he may secure a stronger connection with the Royal bloodlines. Another definite benefit was that Volkard would terrorize in secret any of his father's competitors in the business.
The fat captain's greatest crime, however, was turning a blind eye when his father personally hired a contract killer to take down one of his greatest competitors. The assassin broke into their home, on a rainy night much like this one, and killed the man, along with his wife and daughter, but not before having his way with both the mother and the child. Volkard should've turned in the killer, and his father for doing such a horrendous act. But what did he do instead? The bastard hid the killer in his own home, going out for drinks on a nightly basis until the whole thing was forgotten.

A sick feeling began to swell inside Alan, much like the one he got from tasting the remains of alcohol on his lips just a few moments before. He stared at the fat captain, with eyes full of contempt, hidden under a stoic mask.
One day, if I'll ever be like Adar, I'll put them all to justice, he promised himself.

//OOC: I was just waited for Alan: post order

Mitsuo saw the Jester character move out of the corner of his eye. He decided he would go and talk to him now while he had the chance as his conversation with the host before him got interrupted. "As I have no say in your wonderful conversation, Rose and Yin, I will gracefully take my leave." Mitsuo decided to give everyone nicknames as he didn't know them. He named the hosts Yin and Yang but he'll probably mix them up.

Shimura's Son strode over to the medieval entertainer and tapped him on the shoulder. "Greetings. what a nice theme you have going on their! Is it to represent your personality?" Mitsuo couldn't recognize anyone as far as he knew and so he decided he would talk to the people that looked like they would make good conversation.

//OOC: Sorry for the late response guys. I've been strapped down with Science Fair the past few days and haven't really had much free time.//

The arose nodded in response. "She did,yeah. Never really understood why though." He shrugged .Severin nodded towards the cloaked man. "I understand, Mr. vi Rauco." The Rose lifted the violin to his shoulder and raised the bow. "Of course I know what to do, sir." Stepping off towards the rest of the band, the Rose began playing music. The piece was similar to what he was previously playing, but was a bit more light-hearted. Once Severin had gotten back to the band, he stopped playing and talked with the rest of the band for several moments before they all turned to face the crowd. The cellos started first, followed by the remaining instruments. Severin waited several measures before playing. (Think something like the Song of Storms) On the roof, men in military uniform watched over the street, the other buildings, and some were even looking into the building itself from one of the many windows. They all started silently nodding to the beat of the music.

The black-and-white host, newly without discussion partner, looked at its mirror image. The white-and-black host, newly without discussion partner, looked back to its mirror image. Seeing each other in the same situation, they nodded, and closed in.

'Say...' The black-and-white host began. 'What do you think of our music band?'

'Quite peculiar' The white-and-black host answered. 'Skillful though.' He took a pause. 'We should commence the feast.'

'Indeed, indeed'

With that, they walked lightly to the place where they had originally made the opening statement. They passed in unison through behind the curtain, and emerged in perfect synchronizing again. A few hard claps were used to reduce the noise, and of course to signal the music to stop.

'Well, excuse us, but we believe it is time to hold the feast, so that we can enjoy ourselves better, without hunger in our bellies.' Of course, a few key figures in the crowd nodded. It wouldn't have been hard to guess their jobs... 'Every single person in this room will have to be there. And this also means the kind men who welcomed everyone at the gate, and the kind men playing our oh-so-beautiful music. And no one will stay behind!' With that, the hosts bowed swiftly, then opened the march to the second floor. After them, most of the men in the crowd looked at each other swiftly, then begun following eagerly.

Upstairs, there was a great hall, with two grand tables, and a smaller one, fit for only two persons. In front of each chair, there were a covered platter, a glass of drink, and a half-mask made in the exact same shape and coloring as that of the guest who was supposed to sit there. The only difference was that, obviously, where the guest wore a full mask, the table had a half-one. For easy eating and drinking, of course.

The platters were silver, modestly decorated, and the glasses were crystal and covered in black circles all the way up to the mouth. Both the tables and chairs were massive, ebony wood, and decorated in the same hesitant manner as the silverware. This all made great contrast with the nearby walls and windows, decorated to the brim, and painted in abstract, dazzling patterns. The windows were covered by painted curtains, hiding the room form the outside world. In this moment, only what was here and now mattered.

The hosts took positions near their seats at the central table, standing up. On the other hand, they motioned to any guest trying to take their example to stand down. They were the hosts, and it was their duty to sit down last. The guests, their duty was to come, and sit at the table, so that eventually the hosts could too.

The masks on the tables, and thus arrangement of guests, seemed to be at random. Near the Jester Mask there were, on one side, a raw, carved wooden mask, unpainted and decorated only by deep channels running through it, and on the other side a very thin, nearly foil-like, silver mask, whose traits looked female. The Mechanic's Mask was framed by an obsidian mask, perfectly smooth and black, as expressionless as a mask can be, and a mask that looked like it was made out of thin, deformed bones waving a spider-web-like structure, already worn by a very pale skinned, androgynous guest. The Rouse-Mouth Mask had, same as the Mechanic's, a person and a mask as current companions, namely a purple mask, made of many, many layers of paper sewn together, and depicting a black scorpion on the forehead, and a middle-aged woman in a three-quarter mask, dark green, in a leaf motif, with some of the real things as additional decorations.

Alan turned once his shoulder was tapped. He turned his head, bells ringing, only to face a half-masked mechanic. Alan managed to infer that the man in the metallic suit in front of him was none other than Mitsuo, judging by the voice and the choice of garbs. Were he to not know Mitsuo beforehand, he would've likely thought him for an esteemed researcher on inventor. Alan smiled a small smile under his mask, which also happened to be smiling. Perhaps it was time for him to have a little bit of fun with his friend? Alan wondered how long it would take Mitsuo to figure out that his Policeman friend was hidden under the mask of a jester.
"Oh, quite truly, yes." Alan said with a voice that sounded richer and more erratic than his own. He found it strange what a costume can do to change the way one behaves. "You see, I always believed that we are all fools in a way."
Alan found Mitsuo's choice of clothing quite peculiar, but elegant and classy nevertheless. Alan assumed that the mechanic has designed it himself. Alan, on the other hand, has bought his at some costume shop. The merchant found it rather queer that a soldier such as Alan would buy garments like these, but did not question him.

Alan was about to ask Mitsuo about his own costume, trying to keep up the impression that he didn't recognize him, but before he could, claps rang through the hall. The jester turned his gaze towards the two hosts, who were once again standing together, much like before. The gentlemen announced that the feast was about to take place, and Alan was very happy about that. He has scarcely eaten that day, and truly wanted to know what a feast felt like. However when the robed men finished their words and began stepping in unison towards the second floor, Alan couldn't help but stand there for a moment and assess their words.
No one... stays behind? Alan pondered at those words It seems that the vi Raucos have a plan for this evening. I have previously found Auth's sense of humor to be... a little too much. I hope he won't make my job of protecting the fat Military Police captain all the harder.

Without choice, Alan hurried along with the crowd, deciding to walk nearby Mitsuo. It was nice to recognize someone amidst the masks and deception, but Alan still pondered why his mechanic friend decided to drop by such an event. His pondering was put to a halt when they entered the second floor, and Alan's mouth gasped under his jester mask. It was beyond anything he has ever seen, or even read about. Halls fit for the king - perhaps even more so. Alan felt overwhelmed by the colors and patterns which seemed to pop out of everywhere in his eyesight. Alan looked aghast at the masks lining the tables, which looked a bit eerie. It was not before long he spotted his, and took his seat.
They... knew what everyone was going to come as? Surely, this couldn't have been made just now. Sure, they could've followed the purchases of some of the royals, but some people, like Mitsuo, likely handmade their masks. Did these hosts stalk every single person who was going to attend? Alan's head was filled with questions that needed answers as he made his way towards his spot. He looked around frantically to try and find Mitsuo, and the captain he was supposed to protect, but his search was in vain, for the people filling the hall made the job impossible. Alan sighed and sat down in the elegant wooden chair, looking at the mask that was in front of him. It was an exact replica of the one he was wearing, but the smile was gone, along with the rest of the bottom half. On the inner side of the mask, a wooden pattern was drawn, along with a black slit going across the eye area.
This is likely a 'gift' left to me by Auth, who knows of my intentions, and has seen me sculpt the wooden mask.
"That bastard.." he chuckled and muttered under his mask, and then swiftly swapped between the two, making sure no one got a glimpse of his face as he did so. He then turned his attention to the masks on his left and right, wondering who the people beside him will be. At the moment, it seemed that Auth was playing him - no, everyone, exactly as he wanted. From the organization of the masks, to the strict schedule of the event, it seemed that the Vi Raucos were fully prepared, and wanted Alan to sit away from those he knew.

Alan sat in his chair, waiting for his table-mates to join. As he was sitting, he was irritably playing with the full mask he has taken off. He hated knowing there was a plan and that he wasn't filled in on it. He glared at the two hosts who were sitting in the center of the hall, who were still standing and waiting for the rest of the guests to sit down. They gave no sign of their intentions, nor whom was the father and whom was the son.
Just what are you planning? he wanted to shout at them across the hall, but he kept his dignity and simply kept playing with his mask.
This was becoming much more than a simple night of guard duty, and Alan wasn't ready.

Mitsuo spun on his heel to face towards the host as their claps echoed through the room. He raised any eyebrow at the idea of the feats, deciding whether he was hungry or not. He followed the crowd as they followed the host up to the second floor. He noticed that the Jester was walking beside him.

As soon as they entered the dinning room Mitsuo flinched in surprise. It was pretty big and pretty elegant. Probably pretty expensive too. Then again he was in a mansion so the whole place must have been enormously expensive. Mitsuo looked around and spotted a mass that looked to be in his mechanical theme and figured it must have been his seat. He walked over and pulled out the chair and sat down before examining the mask. It was similar to his in shape and size but far more cooler and elegant in design. It had a gear surrounding the right eye and a pipe jutting out from the left cheek and was darkened gold in colour. Mitsuo nodded in approval to the mask but didn't change into it. He had no need considering his current mask was a half mask anyway. He placed the vi Raucos mask into his blazer pocket. Mitsuo turned to his left to make little gossip with the guest wearing the bone mask as he waited for everyone else to sit down.

The entire band strolled into the room in unison, following the herd of masked guests. They set down their instruments in the cases located in one of the corners of the hall. Taking several moments, they all found their seats and sat down, whereas Severin himself went to the restroom to relieve himself. He did stop by his seat owever, and snagged te half-mask on his way. He brushed past the cloaked individuals, patting the right one's shoulder as the Rose moved to his destination. "Don't wait for me, sir." Severin chimed at the two cloaked men. "Nature calls, and I cannot ignore it." He opened the door and passd though, letting it slide shut behind him. Alone in the hallway, Severin tossed aside the half-mask, flicking his wrists as he entered a room that was not the restroom. Checking to make sure none of the guests had folllowed him, the Rose entered and closed the door behind him, locking it. Faint noises could be heard emanating from the room if someone were specifically listening for them, and it was as if somebody was putting something on. Hushed whispers could be heard as well.

As the guests filled the room, only the Rose-Mouth's seat was left empty, as he passed the white-and-black host, in search for the restroom. The host politely gave way to the individual, avoiding any bodily contact, including a motioned pat on the shoulder. Any more refined on-looker would have perceived the situation as both a man respectfully avoiding another, and a man trying to reach out to pat someone way too far away for it to be a mere friendly gesture. The host nodded toward the Rose-Mouth, and turned back to the feasting hall. Funny, how he both wasn't supposed to know the mansion, and didn't ask for where the bathroom was...

The hosts now both scanned the entirety of the guests, although it couldn't have been noticed, due to the masks and lack of nay movement besides that of the eyes. Near the black-and-white's host former discussion partner, the Jester, sat a sturdily build, quite sparingly clothed man, in a simple, massive, yet exotic wooden mask, framed by long and unkempt dark hair. By his manners, it was obvious the 'Savage' image he gave off was just that: a mere image, not a truth. The other table neighbor of the Jester contrasted sharply with the first, being a frail, yet not without forms, woman, silvery haired and clad in clothing of the same colour that looked to be just as thin as the mask on her face, threatening (or, perhaps, promising...) to rip at the first sudden movement. She had found sport to pass away boredom in trying to begin a conversation with the Jester.

The Mechanic's pale companion had indeed taken the chance to discuss, talking in a voice that sounded just as hard to identify as his facial traits, strongly keeping the androgynous image he had built for himself. The other man, the one now wearing the obsidian mask, looked to be neither overly strong, nor weak, and clad in clothing of the same eye-hurting monochromatic character. He stood in his seat, utterly motionless and without speaking, nearly being a human statue.

The Rouse-Mouth's empty seat was now glared over by a weaker-looking man, wearing purple and blue clothing, same as his paper mask, and with his hair painted the same way. Quickly enough though, he turned his attention to the woman just after, then back to the host. Aforementioned woman glared back for one second, then motioned her sight over all other guests, before stopping and making small-chat with her other neighbor.

Soon enough, the hosts clapped once, and begun their speech.

'So, it is good to have you all here...' The black-and-white host's voice faded, and the white-and-black continued from the exact same place, at the exact same time, and with the exact same voice. '... even though our dear musician will be somewhat late...'

'...we were entitled by him to begin...'
'...the official feast, even in his absence...'
'...and thus, we shall begin!'

With that, the hosts exchanged places and took a seat, very skillfully uncovering their food plates, at the same time with a majority of the guests. Seemingly, every single meal was different form the others. Of course, this couldn't have been more than an arrangement trick, but it was masterfully done, enough not to be observable, even on close inspection.
The hosts took a hand to their chins, and took off the lower portion of their masks. Their chins looked an awful lot the same, due to them being pained in the same colour as the masks themselves. They didn't attack the food just yet, merely took one or two small, courtesy bites, and drank some sips of wine. By the way that man acted earlier, he couldn't have been up to any good.

***

A servant walked the corridor silently. Not a step was heard, even despite the relatively quick walking speed. He was scanning the surroundings, and suddenly stopped at the door where the rose mouth entered earlier. He looked at it more carefully, and spotted a very small piece of paper, the same colour as the door... missing. Obviously, not good. He smirked. Not good for whomever was inside.

He put his finger into his pocket and withdrew it, now with a very slight amount of what looked like black paint on it. Standing by the wall, he silently lingered his finger on the door-frame, leaving a small black dot behind. A death mark.

... For the Night's Daggers...

The assassin drew a a bladed long flintlock in one hand, and a sleek dagger, balanced for both combat and throwing, coated in poison. By Adar's words, 'any trespassers are your targets, and you are to use lethal force'. They, as professionals, have marked all unauthorized doors by brown paper, much too small to be seen by someone not looking for it. Now, he took his floor's master key from his coat, as anyone who entered must have locked the door. How he entered, that was more impressive: after all, to pick that lock would take a good while, and make some good noise. And given all doors were locked, as well as his hearing was very sharp, he got his guard very high. Who knew what sort of man he would be confronted with?

He twisted the key very fast, and kicked the door open. Given his synchronization with all other Night Daggers in the building, the one just above would be alerted by the noise, and prepare to intercept anyone who tried to run away. Now, faced with the interior, he saw a man in what looked like a modified uniform, in a mask with a rose for a mouth. The assassin dashed diagonally, changing direction as soon as someone would pin down his trajectory, closing in blindingly fast.

Soon enough, he would attack the man in front of him with both weapons, holding his fire until he got a certain shot. The dagger was a threat enough for now, to keep the man busy and focused on the wrong thing. But nor could he focus on the right thing, as if he did that, the dagger would exchange it's status, becoming the main threat. Obviously, long-practiced technique of an elite MP and master assassin veteran.

//OOC: I ask Alan to open 'Of Deathly Games - Other Secret Information - 4' and confirm that the assassin guards are not an ass pull.

Alan kept playing about with his full mask, until he noticed that a stout-ish, muscular man sitting beside him, looking at him patiently through his stoic wooden mask. Alan couldn't quite put his finger on it, but the man seemed very fierce, perhaps even scary.
"I do apologize, if that noise has disturbed you." Alan quickly said, as he put the mask away, slightly less playfully than he'd liked. His real, more awkward persona was showing, because he was caught off-guard.
"It's fine." the stranger replied, smiling charmingly under his wooden mask. His voice was surprisingly deep and hearty.
Alan exchanged a few courteous words with the warrior beside him, but it seemed that he wasn't much of a talker. Despite seeming kind and collected, it was fairly clear to Alan that this gentleman was not interested in holding a long conversation. Alan tried to figure out who this person was, because it seemed to him that he never met such a person before.
Judging from his build, this is a man that undergoes physical labor regularly. Could he be a soldier? Perhaps he were construction worker, or a bodyguard Alan analyzed, while still talking to the man No, judging from his manners, this man is either high-born or at least spent many years surrounded by high-born. Low paying jobs, or jobs that would have him living in the outer cities are out of the question. Whoever this person is, they are capable. A good education and a good body can make a person great... and dangerous.

After a few more words, Alan left the man to his own peace, which he seemed to rather want. His attention was drawn to a peculiar voice beside him. It sounded frail, but full of sharp and wit. Sort of like a thin, slow river flowing over deadly sharp rocks. Alan turned towards his other tablemate, and saw a slightly small woman wearing a delicate silvery outfit to match the color of her hair and her dress. She seemed very majestic and beautiful, perhaps even slightly alluring. However, Alan kept his composure. My heart belongs to another he reminded himself.
The mysterious woman finished her chatter with the person next to her and quickly turned to Alan.
"That's quite a peculiar outfit you're wearing." she said in a voice that sounded innocent enough, but also seemed to have a little sting in it.
Of course, being judged by my physical appearance first he noted. To be honest, he couldn't really blame her. He judged her much the same by her looks.
"Well, someone needs to brighter the mood during these events." he replied, smiling briefly.
I don't like this half-mask. People can see the lower half of my face. It'll make acting all the harder he complained to himself.
The girl besides Alan chuckled slightly, and leaned her head against her hand. The sudden movement made her clothing twitch and stretch further than it already has, which looked rather painful to Alan. The woman beside him, however, did not seem to mind.
"Oh, you're a funny one." she said, looking at Alan with eyes he could not decipher "It must be a mistake someone like you were invited to a boring event like this, then." she sighed.
Alan looked at her for a moment, trying to understand her a bit more. His limited number of encounters with feminine females has hindered his detective ability, though. He couldn't help but be slightly distracted by her looks once again. Alan shook his head, and replied to her question, trying to keep his clownish charm.
"It must be the same mistake that brought a woman as beautiful as you to this place." he replied, trying to remain courteous. The woman giggled once again, and covered her face, as if she were blushing. However, her mask gave no sign of that. She was about to say something back to him, but by then the hosts got everyone's attention, and the feast has begun. Alan was glad to start eating - he wasn't a fan of passing random remarks to and fro.

Alan uncovered his meal, only to find plain loaves of bread. He sighed and grabbed one, to begin munching. It looked like Auth was making mock of him again.
He turned his head to see what his companions were served. The woman beside him was given a tasty-looking turkey, surrounded by various cakes. The warrior-clad man beside him, on the other hand, was given a variety of salads. Both seemed to enjoy their meals far enough. Even Alan had to admit his bread wasn't horrible.
While the man on Alan's right ate in silence, the woman on his left seemed to have other things in mind. She gracefully ate from the meat she was served, using her eating utensils to take small bites at a time.
"But really, why would the Vi Raucos invite you?" she asked Alan, seemingly oblivious to the provocative tone of the question, still sounding delicate and innocent "You seem younger than most people here. Not that such a thing is bad." she quickly added, glancing at the Military Policeman quickly before cutting herself another small bite of the turkey.
"Oh, it's just a business errand." he replied charmingly, trying to avoid any further question by asking the lady one "What brings someone such as you to this event? Your sight is not a common one around here."
Alan hoped his question would get her talking. People loved talking about themselves. While he was waiting for an answer, his eyes darted towards the hosts, who seemed to eat and talk, looking exactly like one another. Alan quickly returned his gaze to the woman.
Alan - look he scolded himself You're currently dining at a party hosted by the Vi Raucos. You are safe, and you are among friends. You are in a feast, talking to an attractive woman, with nothing to trouble you. Can't you just loosen up and have a good time?


//OOC: 'Tis true. About 2 to 3 weeks ago, Herdir has declared that he had guards patrolling his floors, looking for intruders during the event.

//OOC: NOOOOOOO. Don't let the forum die!!! Please!

//OOC: I know I'm double-posting, but cannot help it otherwise. If Mitsuo does not post in 24 hours, could Nerd please go ahead and skip him? It'd be a shame for the forum to fully die.