Home ▶ Fallen London » Mr Pages’ Fabularities

“An archive of things that never happened”. An in-character forum for fanfiction and roleplaying. Beware - spoilers abound!

Table 5 at a Hallowmas Party of 1894

Morkan Kassington Posts: 261 11/1/2016	Dockers, rat-catchers and monster-hunters are not creatures of precision. They are not Licentates. Their ships are at the mercy of Storm and Salt. Their quarries are squirming monsters that breeds like......... rats. Always too many unexpected troubles. They cannot be relied on for punctual attendance. At least the one they call Morkan Kassington anyway. The burly hunter strides to his seat (he did consider breaking into a run), bloodstains on his grey suit (the laundry room in the Department of Menace Eradication was under maintenance), Ratting Piece still on person (safety double checked). When he takes his seat, a mushroom flies by his ear. He turns around to see a young lady stepping away from his seat to the back of the room where she sits alone, at a table clearly not set for party. He scribbles something on a note, folds it into a ball, then send it flying to that table with a slingshot. He turns back to his refined table mates. He doesn't know any of them, except Sapho. Saphho? That lady behind the Lyre, no matter how many h is in her name. He might have to attend church when the party is over. edited by Morkan Kassington on 11/1/2016 -- Ladies of the Neath, here comes Morkan Kassington, the gem among gentlemen (He is actually a self-centered and foolish braggart, but he means no harm. Hit him up for social actions or dangerous lessons! Or just flirt.)
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/6/2016	"Speaking of music," Lady Byron interjects, having returned to the table's conversation from some languorous reverie (which, given the Venderbight of Damocles which ever hovers above her head, shall remain unrevealed), "I would very much enjoy a dance with you, Ms Von Ravenscroft." -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+4 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/2/2016	"Mythology," the painter replies at once. "Nothing teaches so much so simply. Not fairy things, but gods and devils once of worship." His folded sparrow collapses upon itself, and he distractedly begins to twist a new shape. "Anu, Anlil, Enki and the rest, for begin. Like carriage-crashes, all. Their follies cannot to look away from. The wise one will learn much of all people through the mad fools we have prayed upon." He clicks a spoon against the bottom of his mask. "Prayed TO. Please forgive." edited by lethifer on 11/2/2016
	+3 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/3/2016	Ginneon Thursday wrote: Across the room, the musicians play a lively Viennese waltz. (Of course it’s Viennese.) “And you…hmm.” He scans the last guest, as though puzzling over a map to some foreign city. “Sharp teeth…a certain pallor. You are Lord Byron’s ‘Vampyre' - or some other unliving revenant found in penny dreadfuls. But as for your name…I am at a loss.” He sips the last of his champagne. “I suppose I am at the mercy of your sentencing.” Lord Byron's 'Vampyre' laughs with delight. "It is not wisdom, sir, to throw yourself, with such casual abandon, on the mercy of an 'unliving revenant found in penny dreadfuls.' Still, as wine is not what I thirst for," she continues, cutting her eyes to Ms Von Ravenscroft at her side, "your ignorance is my boon. But your penance! What shall it be?" she asks, with a wicked twist on her grin. "Ah!" the 'Vampyre' says with a snap of her fingers, an idea having sprung, "amuse and instruct us with a story about the follies of gambling and prevaricating!" -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+3 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/3/2016	Lethifer seems a little stunned to be recognized, but is gracious enough to accept a second glass of champagne after the first meets with a terrible end. He leans back in his chair as their table grows populous, contentedly sipping. His fabric sculptures have grown more involved as he steals a few from neighboring seats, and at one point he manages to send a white-winged moth soaring lazily across the table under its own power before it crumples to the floor near another table. He peers at Appolonia's delicate mask with more scrutiny. "I am difficulty," he admits. The wine has thickened his bizzare accent even further. "For the capital my guessing is a lady from a novel, which, alas, is not yet write. My twice propose is this of wild Carmilla, who hunts in sleep. But your early clue is infounding. Perhaps you are her fated bride, who is in sleep hunted." He spreads a glittering hand in lazy apology. "More as like, I am miss my mark." The long fingers shift slightly, and he uses them to frame her together with Sapho in a jeweled canvas. "A perfect fated pair you make. Quickly, flower, to your tale. A dance cannot forever wait."
	+3 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	"It may have been better had I never returned, Ms Ravenscroft, for when I did, I realized my dream. Set down in a remote corner of the Prickfinger Wastes, the Tyrant Moth vineyard began to flourish. I harvested many early bottles - all of them exquisite. The spot even attracted several Frost-Moths, who soon fell prey to the Ophiocordyceps. Something about the Tyrant Moth - it drew them all there. I harvested and pressed each of the Frost-Moth’s mushrooms as well, and cellared the bottles away." "One day I received an urgent letter from Port Carnelian. From Doctor Wallace. His words were pleading, terrified, haunted. He had consumed the contents of the Frost-Moth bottle I'd left for him, and his mind was clouded by the presence of his sister. All her joys, all her fears, all her memories - he felt. It was like she was inside him - like the two shared one body now. He was convinced the Frost-Moth was the ghost of his sister, and he had committed some unnatural, unforgivable act." "I immediately went to my cellar, locked the door to the Frost-Moth bottles, and threw the key into the zee. Then I laid the Doctor's letter down in the Tyrant Moth vineyard. I burned the entire field until there was nothing left but ash on the charred, splintered rocks." edited by Ginneon Thursday on 11/4/2016 -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+3 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	“So, Lady Byron, I gambled and prevaricated. Though the real folly of gambling may not be in the act, but in the winning, and the real folly of prevarication may not be in the lie, but in the lurking truth it keeps at bay.” He says these last words with an air of finality. edited by Ginneon Thursday on 11/4/2016 -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/4/2016	"Your story is well told and your penance is performed, Professor," Lady Byron answers, nod at him in solemn and impressed appreciation. -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/4/2016	At the description of what happened with the Doctor and his sister, Appolonia nods. She studies the card Ginneon gave her. "Truths may be like moths. They want to come out to the light, even if it is misguided. Pushing them in shadow only makes them beat their wings more furiously to be free and heard, if only for the moment before contact with the light consumes them." "That story is rather surprisingly pertinent to the case I wanted to discuss. How fortuitous to meet you here!" She smiles at Sapho's words of judgment. A tale well told, indeed. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/4/2016	Sara offers a sad, sympathetic nod. She had heard rumours of the superstitions of the Tomb-Colonists, the reverence they had for what others considered parasitic, rebirth versus mere incorporation. Ginneon's tale was a dark reality of the nature of Frost-Moths, no matter which side one believes. "Yes, definitely a sad tale, well told. A shame about the outcome." The matter of truths bring secrets to mind. How many ancient and powerful secrets are out there, capable of being contained by such a process? Such a course is fraught with risks, however. The greater the secret, the greater the chance of being consumed by it. Sara finishes off her glass of mushroom champagne. -- edited by Sara Hysaro on 11/4/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/3/2016	Appolonia smiles at the reference to Countess Karnstein, glancing at Sapho. "A well read Rose. A good sign. Those who read voraciously often tell the best stories too." She gives Ginneon her full attention, eager to hear his tale. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/3/2016	Lord Gazter sits down and takes a sip from his glass. "I would agree with you Profesor Thursday," Lord Gatzer takes antoher sip from his glass. "And I would propose that quick wit is of a greater virtue than wisdom." edited by Lord Gazter on 11/3/2016 -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/3/2016	lethifer wrote: ...and at one point he manages to send a white-winged moth soaring lazily across the table under its own power before it crumples to the floor near another table. The Professing Rose regards Lethifer’s ephemeral creation where it lands. “I quite like your white moth, Mr Lethifer. Interesting you should make it now, as a white moth figures in my story. You see, I am something of an aurelian. I find moths fascinating. And as a professor of mycoenolgy (although we really are all still students) - I study how to improve mushroom wine. The trick is in the interaction between the two.” He gestures to the neighboring table, and a guest sends the antennaed sculpture flying back to the prof’s hand. “Lepidoptera bodies make fertile ground for some very fine fungal species. There are even stories of a family of fungi that will attach itself to moths, extending the mycelium into its host’s brain.” Here, he digs his fingers into the winged glider’s head, deep into the folds of fabric. As he continues, he guides the glider onto the table. “Once thus embedded, it will effectively direct the moth to a place of optimal temperature and humidity, instruct the moth to latch on, and, ultimately-” He claps a loud, flattening hand down on top of the napkin moth. “Kill its host entirely.” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/3/2016	"Oh! Poor moth." Appolonia frowns, but she is still leaning towards Ginneon in her posture. Curious. "I did not know you were an aurelian, Professor. A lepidopterist. Is that the only reason moths fly towards heat and light? I thought they almost all did that. I have been trying to learn about moths here since I learned what happened to my father." "Do you have a card? Perhaps sometime I can call on you, and see if you have any insight on that matter." "Ah, but I am interrupting you! I'm sorry. Go on." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/3/2016	The professor turns to Appolonia. “I’d be happy to tell you all I know, Ms Ravenscroft.” “Moths used to orient themselves by the stars in the Heavens. Since humankind created terrestrial sources of light - fire and the gas lamp - we’ve thrown off their instruments. Imagine on the Surface sailing a ship by the North Star - only now Polaris is millions of leagues closer to you than normal, hovering just above your head. To keep it in the right place off the horizon, you start to circle it. And you circle it some more to get the positioning just right. And on, and on. Moths are not attracted by lights. They are undone by them.” He takes the silken moth from the table, and folds it back neatly into a square. “But the fungi - many of them shun light, hungering rather for a cooler clime, more moisture in the air. So a separate phenomenon, you see. They and the moths are entirely at cross-purposes.” He hands Appolonia his card. “I digress, but I would enjoy a longer discussion later.” edited by Ginneon Thursday on 11/9/2016 -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/3/2016	Sara gives a friendly greeting to the additional new guests to the table, drinking more from her glass of mushroom champagne. She watches Lethifer's moth with wonder, impressed with the skill in folding the fabrics into such a shape. That it could fly for even a moment was even more magnificent. As she listens to Ginneon's story Sara places a curled finger to her chin in thought, attempting to recall some minor trivia she had picked up in her time in the university. "I've heard of this sort of fungus...can't recall the name, unfortunately. And the tale I had heard pertained to ants, not moths." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/3/2016	“Ah, then you’re familiar, Ms Hysaro. When I first descended some years ago, I sought out a cousin to the predatory fungus you just described. The Ophiocordyceps mongoliamensis. In the Khanate, its hosts’ fruiting bodies are consumed to restore vigour and to increase one’s…” he looks about with a puckish smile, “amourous appetites.” "Through my work at Benthic I was able to obtain it in great quantities. Combined with the common codling moth, early attempts at cultivation produced some of the best wine I’ve ever tasted. And quite popular with my students.” “That was when I first read the works of the zoologist Doctor Alfred Russel Wallace. He’d been holed up in Port Carnelian, studying the habits of a colony of Tyrant Moths. Though he’d never published on wine-making, his work fueled my research, and my ambitions.” "Imagine! If moths could help produce the Neath’s finest mushrooms, which could produce the Neath’s finest wine, why, what vast, delicious fields we could cultivate on the backs of the Tyrant Moth!” “A mad plan seized my every thought: meet this Dr Wallace, procure one such behemoth, and return to Fallen London where its body would yield a source of unending revels and delight. Of course, I needed a vast field. Acres and acres. I journeyed far inland, then up and down the coast of London, finally narrowing my sights on a remote spot by the zee. Up in the Prickfinger Wastes. Remote, cool, moist. Quiet and untouched. The Moth’s exoskeleton would form the framework of a field of scaffolding. It would be the largest vineyard in the Neath! But, as I soon learned, this was a spot owned by the Masters of the Bazaar." "My grant money had run dry, so I staked everything I owned…in a game of chance.” edited by Ginneon Thursday on 11/4/2016 -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/4/2016	"Oh, yes yes, that's the one. Ophiocordyceps." Sara's eyes light up in the delight of recalling some stray details left in the dark corners of the mind, though her dark lenses obscure the expression. "O. unilateralis to be...well, I would say specific, but it's a collective of species. Sensu lato." She settles back down, not wanting to detract from the story any further, especially as it was reaching the height of its intrigue. -- edited by Sara Hysaro on 11/4/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	“I met a certain vicar on a certain night and delivered a certain experimental bottle of 'Mothmush Wine' - one that had intensified the, ah, tonic effects touted by the Khanate’s pharmacists." "He gave me instructions to say certain words at a certain door in the Bazaar, which led me to a small room with a disgraced viscount, a honey-addled ingénue (whom I believe I would later recognize from one your operas, Ms Ravenscroft), and an unnamed Master. We each sat down to play the Master’s game. I wagered everything I owned, and several things I didn’t.” “We played all night. It was a furious blur of clacking tiles - like the rattling of bones. By the lighting of the gas lamps, I lucked into a hand of Thirteen Unique Wonders.” “The land was mine. I sped off that morning on a steamship south, south, south. To Port Carnelian. And to Dr Wallace.” edited by Ginneon Thursday on 11/4/2016 -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/4/2016	Appolonia listens to the tale attentively. When Ginneon talks about the fungal infected hosts’ fruiting bodies being consumed to restore vigour and to increase one’s 'amorous appetites', she blushes in the parts of her cheeks visible beneath her mask. She lifts her mushroom champagne glass and stares at it for a moment. Is it something similar? Her glass is nearly empty. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	Ginneon catches Appolonia's furtive glance. “I do promise - aside from tasting really rather delicious - this bottle has no particular effects other than the normal joys that accompany champagne.” “Now, when I finally arrived in Port Carnelian, I found the colony in turmoil. People thronging quayside to leave. Burst luggage contents strewn about the street. I asked about Doctor Alfred Wallace and - after being much ignored - a genteel tiger finally directed me to a teashop.” “Inside I found a forlorn gentleman writing in the corner, occasionally staining his tremendous beard with ink. ‘Juniper, cedar, lavender…no,” I heard him say. I introduced myself, and was welcomed as a fellow scholar. He explained the furor that had eclipsed the colony’s newly-forged tranquility: ‘The Tyrant Moths have grown more aggressive. Attacking outlying villages. Every street corner, every teashop is abuzz with mad accusations. ‘The Tigers lured them there to weaken Her Majesty’s defenses!’ ‘The Navy ejected foodstuffs from their ships to make better time, attracting the beasts like a trail of breadcrumbs!’ And on and on. Regrettably I have found nothing in my studies to drive them away.’ The good Doctor invited me to lodge with him. In his home we were greeted by a beautiful creature - an elegant, white frost-moth. When I asked Dr Wallace about the moth, he replied: ‘Ah, my new companion.’ He pet the creature affectionately, if somewhat wistfully. ‘Before heading to Port Carnelian, I retrieved my sister from her permanent residence in Venderbight. I thought seeing more of the world would do her some good. When we finally arrived, she assisted me in field work - collecting the remnants of the fruit the Tyrant Moths eat, testing various repellant measures. On one such outing, the Moths attacked. We escaped, though Fanny was injured. I tended her wounds as best I could and redid her bandages, leaving her to recover here.’ At this point the Doctor’s hand began to shake. ‘I went out again to a farm ruined by the Tyrant Moths a few weeks ago. When I returned I found she had passed. And this curious creature had made its way inside. I couldn’t bring myself to show it out.’ A proud man, Dr Wallace held back his tears as best he could. ‘I once was driven by science. Now, my only thought is revenge.’ I proposed that, together, we devise a plan to rid the Port of the Tyrant Moths. He asked what drove me - why would I risk so much? Could it be he had found a pure soul willing to aid him in his singular purpose? It didn’t seem the appropriate time to mention my vision of a vast field of mushrooms producing the world’s finest wine. And it was here I prevaricated. ‘Yes,’ I replied." -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	“I told Dr Wallace all about the Ophiocordyceps mongoliamensis, and we devised a plan to place it in the rotting fruit that drew the Tyrants. I had only used it on the tiny codlings, so I requested a trial on his substantially larger Frost-Moth. He was hesitant, but ultimately gave his assent - to avenge his sister.” “The trial was a success. After a day, the Frost-Moth grew sluggish, and found its way to the cellar, where it began to sprout a white, fungal fur. We swiftly put our plan in action, injecting the predatory fungus into fruit at a recently attacked farm. Suffice it to say, we succeeded. Fungus-addled, the Tyrant Moths were directed to some distant corner of the Neath - probably in a far land where the walls of the great cavern meet the zee." "All of them went, save one, whom I bound, captured, and had lashed to the deck of a hulking merchant cruiser. The Colony returned to normal, and as a parting gift, I offered to turn the Doctor’s sprouting Frost-Moth into a very fine wine.” edited by Ginneon Thursday on 11/4/2016 -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	“I will spare you the tale of the crossing home. Of the time the Tyrant Moth fitfully awoke from its torpor and strained with all its might, breaking the lines, casting zailors into the unforgiving depths." "I will not tell you how - frenzied by the Tyrant’s dripping vital fluids - the Sharks crowded our bow. I will not tell you how their armature broke our hull and we listed into the Pelagic Upheavals." "I will say nothing of the curses and prayers bellowed to Salt and Storm. Nor how, when the captain spied shrieking aerial terrors, he pleaded to cut the beast loose to appease them. I will not recount my insistence that the lives lost would be given in vain, should we return without our prize." "The true story of those things, I cannot bear to repeat.” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/4/2016	"Oh! How terrifying and awful that must have been. I am so sorry to hear it. But glad you survived." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/3/2016	Appolonia turns to Mr. Lethifer, drawn first by the lovely white-winged fabric moth. "Oh, how pretty! I had a dream I had moth wings once. Perhaps a costume for another year!" Regarding her costume, she listens to his answer, and smiles brightly: "That is a marvelous and precisely accurate guess, sir! You have it exactly." "From the serial novella Carmilla, yes. By Le Fanu. But if you did not read it in The Dark Blue in the 70s, nor have a copy of those editions of that magazine, you may be waiting for the version there are rumors will be published as a stand alone novella soon. Such a wonderful story! Well worth its own binding." "But yes, the fated bride. Sleep hunted. Laura." She smiles. An even brighter smile when he looks at her and Sapho together, framing them with his jeweled hands. "I look forward to a dance with you, Mr. Lethifer. Or another token you may choose." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/3/2016	Appolonia nods at Lord Gazter when he walks up. "Nice to see you again, Lord Gazter." "I did track down a copy of your gothic romance. 'My Dear'. A marvelous read. I quite enjoyed all the mythological allusions. And it has indeed found a good home in my collection of stories about thread-wielding women in myth. Ariadne is such an interesting figure. The Labyrinth story with Theseus, of course, but also married to Dionysus god of wine. I am sure she would approve of these festivities, and the good drink available." She takes another sip of Ginneon's mushroom champagne. Delicious and rather intoxicating. "Do you know they used to offer honey to Ariadne, in her role as mistress of the labyrinth? It seems a proper offering for a goddess." At the word 'goddess' she glances at Lady Sapho. "Though I do not think honey had the same power on the Surface as it does here. I am not sure this is the kind of party where they will serve honey. There would need to be more couches for reclining." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Mr. Zane Posts: 62 11/3/2016	A man in fashionable evening attire, topped off with a violant skull approaches the table. “Good evening,” his cultured voice rings out, “I do hope you will pardon the intrusion, but I saw the lovely lady here in dreadful need of a dance and I could not help myself but attempt to rectify such a tragic situation.” He holds a hand out to Lady Byron, “Shall I escort you to the dance floor, milady?” -- "Yes, I realize that projecting my internal dialogue onto my cat is probably not the healthiest way of dealing with stressful situations." "Meow." "No, murder is not the answer. You always suggest that." http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Warren~Zane
	+2 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/3/2016	"Thank you for the kind offer - that sounds delightful," Sara takes the calling card with a grin, tucking it into her pocket for safe-keeping. "Yes, we've a long night of drink, dance, company, and song! Much fun left to be had, for sure." She gives a look around the room, noting some of the attendees to this event. "Speaking of which, perhaps I ought to retrieve a friend at some point this evening. He's not very social, but I'm sure he'll find some entertainment here." Sara responds to the arrival of Ginneon Thursday with a friendly wave and hello, trusting his judgement that whatever live thing someone was eating wasn't anything she'd want to know. The proposal of a game garners a curious gaze, followed by one of amusement at its clarification. "Ah, this game." She takes a sip of the mushroom champagne when he names her, holding her remarks on the additional details of her identity until after the sentencing. -- edited by Sara Hysaro on 11/3/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/3/2016	Appolonia smiles at Ginneon and takes the offered glass of mushroom wine. "You have identified me correctly, sir, but not my costume. I'll drink the wine in forfeit of my true identity. But, in the spirit of the game, if anyone" -- she glances around the table -- "wishes to make a more accurate guess, I'll reward them with a dance or other token of their choice." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/3/2016	Lord Gazter wrote: A gentleman in loose fitting tomb-colonist bandages approaches the table. "Lady Byron, how have you been this fine evening." "Thank the goddesses you appeared now and not a few minutes ago when yonder Rose," she nods at the man dressed as the Exceptional Rose, "was attempting to guess our identities," Lady Byron laughs. "I am well. And you, sir?" -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+2 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/3/2016	Mr. Zane wrote: A man in fashionable evening attire, topped off with a violant skull approaches the table. “Good evening,” his cultured voice rings out, “I do hope you will pardon the intrusion, but I saw the lovely lady here in dreadful need of a dance and I could not help myself but attempt to rectify such a tragic situation.” He holds a hand out to Lady Byron, “Shall I escort you to the dance floor, milady?” "My excellent Mr -- ah, pardon, I should not give away your name -- my excellent Mr Zkull, a dance would be a delight. But first we are owed a story by the Professing Rose. Will you hear it? And then we shall dance." Sliding her chair closer to Ms Von Ravenscroft on her right, Lady Byron makes room for Mr Zane on her left. -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+2 link
Mr. Zane Posts: 62 11/3/2016	"A story? Of course I will hear it." Mr. Zkull takes the proffered seat and assumes a posture of quiet attentiveness. -- "Yes, I realize that projecting my internal dialogue onto my cat is probably not the healthiest way of dealing with stressful situations." "Meow." "No, murder is not the answer. You always suggest that." http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Warren~Zane
	+2 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/3/2016	Lady Byron is rather well known for her dancing, and her eye has been straying to the dance floor ... -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+2 link
Nell Evangeline Posts: 8 11/2/2016	The wine and lively conversation have brought color to Nell's cheeks by now (though which color is curiously hard to pin down: certainly not red, at least). The implications of certain responses are not lost on her; she shoots Appolonia a befanged smile as she mentions her preferred role in the hunt, and Sapho's audacious double entendre makes Nell's blush even deeper. But it's Sara's comparatively chaste plans to promote literacy that draw her back to the larger conversation. lethifer wrote: "Mythology," the painter replies at once. "Nothing teaches so much so simply. Not fairy things, but gods and devils once of worship." He taps a spoon to the edge of the mask, considering. "Anu, Anlil, Enki and the rest, for begin. Like carriage-crashes, all. Their follies cannot to look away from. The wise one will learn much of all people through the mad fools we have prayed upon." He clicks a spoon against the bottom of his mask. "Prayed TO. Please forgive." edited by lethifer on 11/2/2016 "Good painter, in my view you have the right idea and the wrong gods." She pours something inky from a hip flask into her coffee and takes a relaxed sip. "The editors at St. Cyriac's have the way of it; the Neath must have her own stories if we are to strive for literacy, and only archaeologists and nostalgic tomb-colonists care for the surface divinities. After all, of what use is Apollo to an urchin who's never seen the sun?" "But I imagine that same urchin would devour books on that old fury she's been running the rooftops for since she could clear the gaps." -- Huntress Evangeline's profile page
	+2 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/3/2016	Observant guest will note that blushes--or rather, causing and observing them--bring great delight to Lady Byron. -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+2 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	"One of the delights of such a gathering as this is that we meet people and other entities with interests divergent from our own. I would have never thought of an enormous murder party, for example," Sapho enthuses. "Although, if a group activity were to occur tonight I should prefer it to be one that, whilst vigorous and frisson inducing, leaves everyone alive at the end ... or with a little death or two at the most." -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+2 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	Lady Byron appears, summoned, perhaps, by the mention of her name. She is clad in a close-fitting black grow with sleeves hanging pendant ... perhaps there is something Polythreme to the gown, it--and thus she--seems to flow, more than walk. A piece of detached night. She wears no mask, but is pallid, white ... even her freckles are gone. Her lips, however, are the color of coral and her canines, flashing when she smiles at the guests, are preternaturally sharp. "Thank you for saving this, my dear," she says, taking a seat beside Appolonia Von Ravenscroft. edited by Lady Sapho Byron on 11/2/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/6/2016	Appolonia smiles radiantly at Lady Byron's invitation. "I'd like that very much!" She sounds a little breathless at the thought. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/5/2016	Appolonia sips the eiswein, looking flushed and happy from the dancing. She is still wearing the mushroom crown that Ginneon made for her. “Mmmmmm, eiswein and a floral crown and a festive country dance. I should have brought my dirndl and my accordion and the spirit of Gemütlichkeit would be complete. Friends and good cheer. Oktoberfest.” “And now you have seen me dance ‘the square’, Mr. Lefither. Our bargain is fulfilled.” She grins. Turning back to her fellow dancers, she adds: “You all are such good sports, and wonderful dancers.” “Particularly you, Huntress. You are from Vienna? I have never been there, but I hear it is a splendid place. And not so far from my home that was. Do you miss it? What was your life like there? If you do not mind speaking of it.” “And I am glad for the chance to waltz too, Lord Gazter. Thank you.” She turns to see the commotion at Table 6 when it occurs. People threatened? Arrested? A scimitar? She frowns and leans instinctively closer to Lady Sapho. At Ginneon’s question: “I think Sara said she was leaving briefly to fetch a friend? I look forward to meeting any friend of hers.” -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/6/2016	"It is an interesting question. What is the most terrifying or strangest or most curious monster in the Neath," Appolonia adds, after a rather long sip of the deliciously sweet eiswein. "Maybe our Huntress or Mr. Kassington or others here have an opinion. I have heard there are terrible things to zee. I'm sure there are thrilling tales to be had in it." "Probably the strangest creatures I've seen are from the Bishop's breeding experiments. My personal favorite that I helped breed was the muscaliet. A strange little creature. A bit of a cross between a hare, a pig, a mole, a boar and a weasel. Tremendously musical -- I think that was my influence -- and something of a viable heat source." "The Bishop is planning to strap muscaliet-driven steam organs to the backs of elephants to keep the hymns sounding on the front lines of his war, when it comes." "I do not agree with the Bishop on many things, but I do adore organ music." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/9/2016	A man dressed as a honeybee approaches the table, and whispers something in the Professor's ear. For the first time tonight, Ginneon's face grows grave. "This rare evening has been a pleasure. The utmost pleasure." As he speaks he sheds his petals, his leaves, his amethystine robe - revealing a smart suit underneath. He adjusts his tie. "Your words, though, Mr Ewan, have been most prescient. I have much work to do. As do we all. I bid you a good night." He heads towards the door - then stops himself and returns for a moment: "Remember the eiswein." And he is gone. -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/6/2016	"Oh, I am not afraid of spiders. I like spiders." "Though I've never seen one as big as a cow. That might be rather unsettling." "I have a lovely sorrow-spider, very fluffy and pretty, who was once my chaperone and now my friend." "I haven't been to the Labyrinth much since the election. I think the Bishop took my campaigning for Jenny rather hard. My song got sung all over the docks. But if a Christian man cares less for the poor than another candidate... Well, I cannot feel too bad for setting that to verse." She smiles then, hearing the musicians, in the background, start another waltz. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/4/2016	"Hm? Oh, just a minor little detail." Sara answers a bit sheepishly, finding her quibble a bit more silly delivered so long after the relevant statement. Still, she gives her thoughts as requested. "I'd not personally consider myself one of the greatest philanthropists of Fallen London - I've only just started independent work this year, so at best I'd be promising - but I appreciate the compliment nonetheless." Her embarrassment fades, and she gives a bit of a chuckle. "At least, I hope I'm not already one of Fallen London's greatest philanthropists. That bar ought to be set a little higher, in my opinion, to give charitable individuals something to strive for and be inspired by." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/4/2016	Appolonia sips the French Surface wine. "Maybe when they serve dessert we can have a sweet wine from my homeland. A sweet Bavarian eiswein, from grapes let to freeze on the vine. That would be fitting to follow our discussion of frost moths." Her gaze drifts to the dance floor, and she frowns at the sight of a person dancing energetically and falling. Nothing wrong with a bit of variety in the styles of music played, but she can't help but hope they will play another waltz soon. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/4/2016	Lethifer finally, inevitably, spills some of his wine as he hurriedly untangles his limbs enough to call out, giddy as an urchin on free Lumps day: "I am decided on my token, fair Laura! I would see you dance the square!" He waves to Lord Gazter with a wide, shining smile. "With elegant, now, sir!"
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/4/2016	"Mr. Lethifer, I will gladly dance the square to please you both. A bit of merry folk dance shall do wonders to shine a bit of Oktoberfest into the dark of Hallowmass, but we face a mathematical puzzle! They say they need groups of exactly four. They have three. To add two, we must find three more, and make eight." edited by Appolonia on 11/4/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/4/2016	Appolonia smiles. "I would be honored, Lord Gazter. I enjoy dancing very much." It takes her a moment to rise, since the chairs are packed rather close, but she is soon standing. Her nightgown-inspired dress hangs loose on her thin frame, and reaches the floor. While her costume would be best served by bare feet, she has clearly yielded to convention in this regard, for when she takes a step towards him, there is a brief glimpse of delicately embroidered white silk evening slippers appropriate for an evening event or ball. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+2 link
Nell Evangeline Posts: 8 11/4/2016	As the trio of new faces fell upon the table, Nell's cocksure smile shifted, almost imperceptibly. The first law of the hunt is to know your quarry, and while she had learned what she could of her table mates, research on the many other guests had been less thorough. So, she sat back as thegentlemen pounced on their chance to dance, and accepted both good wine and a good flower's tale with good graces; all the while, her peligin eyes bounced between the three men with predatory focus. And here, her patience presents an opportunity of her own. She speaks up in the same fae tones as always; if one wasn't looking for it, they might not have even noticed as she sized up the new arrivals. "Look no further, sweetlings, you've found your fourth right here! Why, back in the Viennese halls they'd been dancing these steps for centuries by the time London got a hold of them." Her voice turns suddenly solemn as she turns to her tablemates, but a puckish grin and theatrical bow make clear her humorous intent. "Lady Byron, Lady Von Ravenscroft, and good Lord, I do swear on my honor as a Hunter of Monsters to be a partner worthy of your company~" edited by Nell Evangeline on 11/5/2016 -- Huntress Evangeline's profile page
	+2 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/5/2016	Lethifer appears relieved when someone else volunteers, and enjoys a celebratory canapé. "I cannot dance," he explains to the table in a conspiratorial stage-whisper. "Is dangerous. I have six left feet. Besides, one must guard the table. I have hearing there is a thief about."
	+2 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/5/2016	Sara contemplates Ginneon's recited saying thoughtfully. "Ah, I see where that is coming from. A difference is a difference, and means the world to someone." She follows Appolonia's gaze to the dance floor and tilts her head quizzically. Not a style she had expected to hear or see during the event. She gives this dance a pass, not informed or intrigued enough to give it a try. Perhaps when she is more inebriated. "I thank you for guarding the table, Lethifer - I am off to bring in a friend. Be back in a little bit; shouldn't take more than a few minutes." With that she stands, selects a dessert from the nibbles tray, and makes her way towards the front door. -- edited by Sara Hysaro on 11/5/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/5/2016	Ginneon takes the table arrangement and transforms it into festive mushroom crowns. Smiling, he bestows them on Nell and Appolonia. "There. Much more like a Surface harvest dance." Ginneon offers Nell his arm amiably. "Master Monster Hunter, no need to stake your honor - your company is sure to be pleasure enough. And it will be a delight for us to dance with a Viennese pro." Nell, Appolonia, Lord Gazter, and Ginneon head to the floor, and dance as merrily as rats at a cheese rolling. Nell expertly leads several dances - her companions following suit. After several festive numbers, the party returns panting to the table, and the musicians slow to a waltz. -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+2 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/5/2016	Lord Gazter wrote: Lord Gazter offers Appolonia her chair before returning to his own. "You are an extrodinary dancer Appolonia." Lord Gazter eyes seem to twinkle as he talks. "We must do this again some time." He smiles charmingly towards Appolonia. Lord Gazter asks one of the waiters to refill his glass and after his glass is refilled and he had taken a sip he turned back towards the other guests at the table. "So where were we, dear friends?" Ginneon welcomes Appolonia back with a glass of eiswein. "And one for you as well, Lord Gazter, when you're ready. I'm sure you worked up quite a thirst, waltzing with such flair." He leans closer, grinning. "I'd be careful if I were you though - lest your flair rouse the jealousy of our Carmilla." -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/5/2016	Lord Gazter wrote: Lord Gazter observes the commotion at table 6, but makes no move to do anything about it. 'I'll discover the meaning behind that later.' He thinks to himself before turning back to the table before anyone notices that his attention had been diverted. The confrontation at Table Six is hard to miss. "Heavens," the professor says. "Who brings a scimitar to dinner?" He looks around, concerned. "Has anyone seen Ms Hysaro?" -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/5/2016	(ooc: Just a heads up that I won't have internet access tonight. Assume Appolonia dances with tipsy enthusiasm and natural grace, and feel free to proceed without me chiming in on the thread. She is light on her feet and a trained dancer. She is not wearing a corset so she can participate in several dances without needing to rest. She follows the lead of whoever she is paired with (so your descriptions will be fine), and she is equally happy to dance with a man or a woman. I'll happily do 1-on-1 scenes with folks when I'm back on my computer tomorrow to catch up on private conversations while dancing. She enjoys both country dances and more formal dances, like waltzes.) -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/4/2016	"Oh, they appear to be playing some kind of country folk dance. Do you know this dance? It appears ... not unlike a polka or maybe a jig, I guess." "We could try it. Or wait for something more familiar." (ooc: Per Dance Floor thread, they are presently playing square dance music...) -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/4/2016	"Quite true." Lord Gazter looks around the table. "Are there any others here who would wish to join us?" -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	"A merry song! Reminds me of the grape harvest in Bordeaux." Ginneon stands and sways - his petals fluttering merrily, his feet tapping out the rhythm. "That company has found their fourth. Now we just need ours." -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/4/2016	Lord Gazter takes drink from his glass and as he happened to look up at Appolonia, he noticed the longing in Appolonia's eyes. He smiles and places down his now empty glass. "Would you care for a dance Ms. Ravenscroft?" -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	"You may know the old saying, 'She who saves a life saves the world entire.' It only follows that she who teaches one to read makes the whole world literate. At any rate, it's time better spent than studying mushroom wine and getting drunk on yachts." -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Ewan C. Posts: 675 11/7/2016	It turns out that there is a further guest at the table. Strange. How had no-one noticed the cloaked, leather-clad gentleman? Had seen him neither arrive nor dine? And yet: when he speaks, it is clear that he has been observing each moment of the evening's discussion. "No beast compares with the evils of man - of that, I assure you." The manner of his cutlery-manipulation brings to mind kifers and surface-spices; he is just finishing the dissection of some jilly-fish. "Oh, there are fears, of course - the Vake will cause one to shiver; and the denizens of the deepest wells terrify. But for ingenuity of dread, look to the acts of humanity." The placecard reads Ewan C. Evidently his point is made: he returns to self-contained observation and to the shadows - peculiar how the lamps seem to avert their glare from him. In the folds of his cravat, though, a brief glimpse of the pendant that signifies membership in the Order of the hooded erithacus rubecula.
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/7/2016	"Mr...Ewan, is it?" From the nest of petals, beard, and leaves that is his head, Ginneon regards his fellow guest with unbroken joviality. "Funny - I had not seen you before! More's the pity, as you've missed your share of several good wines. Here. On Ms Ravenscroft's recommendation - try this and tell me you do not feel a Surface Winter's first crisp breath on a late autumn morn." Ginneon fills a glass for the stranger. "Ice wine is rather rare, you know. The very first morning of the year that the grapes freeze on the vine, a vineyard must summon a veritable army in a moment's notice to harvest the entire crop within a few hours. An entire village comes together in common cause and herculean labour to create this which you see before you." "Now, to your point, Mr Ewan, humankind may produce the worst monsters. And to Lord Gazter's point, the worst monsters may very well be the best conversationalists. But let us not forget that - on very cold mornings - humankind also unites to produce eiswein: a drink whose sole purpose is the instigation of joy." edited by Ginneon Thursday on 11/8/2016 -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/7/2016	Appolonia smiles at Professor Thursday's description of how eiswein is made, and what values it therefore celebrates. "You have such a way with words, Professor." "Ein Prosit! A toast!" She lifts her glass. "To all the rare things that give us joy!" After the toast, she looks thoughtful. "Parties like this are a rare joy too. The chance to meet new friends and converse. I hope we can all stay in touch. Well, anyone who wishes." A slight blush. Perhaps it is presumptuous to think anyone will want that. She reaches into her reticule and produces a little stack of cards. She passes them around, making sure each person gets one, even the oft shadow-hidden Mr. C. The enclosed card has the name "Miss Appolonia VonRavenscroft". The stock is an expensive ivory, with the letters in crisp black font. One side of the card is printed with an address at a Spire of the Bazaar. Daily hours when she receives callers at that location are included. There is a faint pattern in the cardstock that appears at first glance to be a natural imperfection of the paper, but on closer examination forms seven notes of music on a staff. edited by Appolonia on 11/7/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/8/2016	"Ah that is a kind offer, Professor." "I leave the matter of our transport and destination entirely in Lady Byron's hands." A smile for that exquisite lady. She turns to look at Mr. C's pendant when Ginneon draws attention to it. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/8/2016	Following the intrigue of what transpired, Sara returns to her table a little apologetic for the wait. A raven with pure white plumage is perched upon her arm, curiously looking over the table's various costume choices. "I'm very sorry about that! There was some commotion outside, and I got a little wrapped up in it. Didn't mean to be gone for so long." Following her apologies she glances cheerily at Caldyr before looking back to the rest of the group. "Anyway, this handsome fellow here is Caldyr, the friend I mentioned bringing in earlier. He's not very talkative around strangers, but I promise he'll at least be a little social. Right, Caldyr?" She beams at the raven. He responds with an unamused glance. Her smile dims, and she gives a single resigned nod before returning her attention to the rest of the table. A hand flourish precedes her next statement, communicating that she tried. "Well, he'll answer questions at least." She gives a quick round of introductions for Caldyr's benefit before settling back down in her chair, the raven choosing a spot on the table nearby. Despite his supposed agitation at Sara's insistence that he be social he greets each person as they are named with a graceful bow of the head. He glances around the room briefly, seeing the wide variety of costumes present. Sara gives him a smile, "Lots of fun costumes this year, huh?" He nods, replying in a soft, pleasant tone. "No shortage of creativity this year." He stretches a wing, looking around the room again. "The last had far less diversity. Tradition can grow stale." He holds back a statement wishing the shift in focus wasn't centered around a bombing and opportunism, keeping the conversation light in the spirit of a party. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+1 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/8/2016	"Yeah, a couple people got arrested and during the arrest somebody with a weapon came out and intervened. Took a hostage as a shield to help its getaway. Nobody hurt, though, or at least as far as I know." Sara takes a sip of her drink, mulling over the events privately. "Should be fine, I think." Caldyr ponders the events briefly, before determining his verdict. "I would not worry. It seems unlikely for any of you to run across it." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+1 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/8/2016	Lord Gazter notices the exchange of calling cards. "Well since we are at it." He pulls several cards out of his pocket and hands them out. The card is rather ornate borders on the edges of the paper with fairly plain black letters in its centre. The letters spell out the name: "Lord Barnabas Gazter." On the back of the card is the address to the Brass Embassy as well as an address to a salon. "Caldyr how have you been?" Lord Gazter finishes another glass of wine. edited by Lord Gazter on 11/8/2016 -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/6/2016	Lord Gazter wrote: "How do you that there is not a worse monster hiding underneath these bandages?" Lord Gazter responds back with an amused grin on his face. "How do I know? Easy, my Lord Gazter." Ginneon slides over a glass of eiswein. "I do not drink with monsters." -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/6/2016	"Now now Lord Gazter - what have we said about wisdom? Besides, if things go south," Ginneon looks to Nell, "I always find it's best to seat yourself beside a Monster Hunter." -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Morkan Kassington Posts: 261 11/6/2016	Appolonia wrote: "It is an interesting question. What is the most terrifying or strangest or most curious monster in the Neath," Appolonia adds, after a rather long sip of the deliciously sweet eiswein. "Maybe our Huntress or Mr. Kassington or others here have an opinion. I have heard there are terrible things to zee. I'm sure there are thrilling tales to be had in it." "Probably the strangest creatures I've seen are from the Bishop's breeding experiments. My personal favorite that I helped breed was the muscaliet. A strange little creature. A bit of a cross between a hare, a pig, a mole, a boar and a weasel. Tremendously musical -- I think that was my influence -- and something of a viable heat source."" Morkan stirs from his nap when he hears his name mentioned. "From my experience, there's a point when folks stop being frightened by a beast and more by the minds behind it. A sorrow-spider the size of a cow can give 'em folks at the Department nightmares. But it's the razor bladed legs that gets the laudanum rations out, because either old mother nature is a daft lass or some folks failed to play god. In this case, it was L.B.s." He winks at Appolonia. "If you are snooping around the Labyrinth, keep it musical." -- Ladies of the Neath, here comes Morkan Kassington, the gem among gentlemen (He is actually a self-centered and foolish braggart, but he means no harm. Hit him up for social actions or dangerous lessons! Or just flirt.)
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	Appolonia smiles happily when Sapho appears. "I'm afraid I haven't caught anyone's name yet. I've only just arrived. But now I am absolutely sure I am at the right table!" -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	When Lethifer has taken a breath, Lady Byron interject, "Mr Lethifer, I do believe we have met before ... if ... ah ... memory serves. I acquired a painting of yours at the time." edited by Lady Sapho Byron on 11/2/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	"Mr Kassington, a pleasure to see you again." Sapho nods and smiles in the direction of the well-armed note-artillerist. -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	Appolonia wrote: Appolonia smiles happily when Sapho appears. "I'm afraid I haven't caught anyone's name yet. I've only just arrived. But now I am absolutely sure I am at the right table!" "Our blood-stained companion ... hmm ... blood is table's theme, perhaps ... is Mr Morkan Kassington. Our crab-bedecked compatriot is Lethifer. And I'm afraid those are all the names I know ... other than yours and mine, of course." -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	"A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Lethifer. So you are a painter? How splendid! What kind of painting do you do?" "And a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Kassington. What occupies your time here in the Neath?" She turns and smiles at each of them, as she says their names. "I am probably best known in town as a composer of opera." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/2/2016	Lethifer is tilting his chair perilously backwards, watching their visiting rumormonger alight to the next table over and do her work. "... elegant form," he comments, tipping the mask back a bit to take a drink. At the sound of his name-- what sort of name is that, anyway?-- he swivels like a gyroscope, wobbling slightly, to attend his tablemates. "Most welcoming! Join, join. I have bullied the caterers," he says grandly, indicating the truly fine array of nibbles piled high onto table 5. He leans forward after seats are filled. The crab mask has no visible slits for eyes, so it is difficult to tell where his gaze lies, but he addresses Sapho in tones of earnest delight. "Dear lady! To meeting you again is the joyous of nights. How to your work? What of mine? Great happiness it brings you, say it is true. Pleasure, a true pleasure." It is quite clear he has no idea where or how they have met before, but the gilded stream of pleasantries is artful. To Appolonia he meanders through similar glowing praise, ending with "... ah, but I have knowing of your work! In the quiet evening, the orchestral of D------- haunts still through my heart. Do not heed the nattering of that lumpy critic in the rag. They know nothing of music. You do." This compliment, more than anything, seems heartfelt. edited by lethifer on 11/2/2016
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	Appolonia serves herself a bit of the delicious looking nibbles. "Mmmmm I'm glad my mask doesn't cover my mouth. This looks hard to resist." Her mask also leaves enough of the lower half of her face visible that Lethifer can see that she blushes at his sincere compliment - quite ruining the intended pallor of her costume. "Oh! Thank you." "I should very much like to see some of your paintings. Do you have a gallery? Do you mostly do portraits? Landscapes?" "And what are you drinking? Perhaps I should have a glass?" -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/2/2016	A brown-haired figure makes her way to the table to which she was assigned, gracefully evading the more active attendants to the party. Her mask is that of a raven, white feather design stretching out from an ebony beak, eyes concealed by darkened curved lenses. Weaved delicately into her braided hair is a scandalously scarlet ribbon, complemented by the red accents of her predominately black and white dress. Over said dress is a short white cloak, thick enough to ward off the mid-Autumn chill. She perches her hands on the back of her chair, giving her fellow table-mates the friendliest expression one might manage with only a mouth scarcely visible. Her tone is light and pleasant, possessing the confidence of someone accustomed to social gatherings. "Good evening. Apologies for my tardiness - I had some matters to attend to." The nibbles tray captures her interest, the woman studying its contents as she takes her seat. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	lethifer wrote: He leans forward after seats are filled. The crab mask has no visible slits for eyes, so it is difficult to tell where his gaze lies, but he addresses Sapho in tones of earnest delight. "Dear lady! To meeting you again is the joyous of nights. How to your work? What of mine? Great happiness it brings you, say it is true. Pleasure, a true pleasure." It is quite clear he has no idea where or how they have met before, but the gilded stream of pleasantries is artful. "When we met, you said your painting was horrid and you asked me to dispose of it ... which I did." Sapho explains, as a small, amused smile plays over her lips, revealing her pointy canines. edited by Lady Sapho Byron on 11/2/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	"Happy Hallowmas, Ms Hysaro! And no apologies are necessary: you are not tardy, merely fashionably late!" -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	Appolonia turns to the women who has just arrived. "A pleasure to see you again, Sara!" "Have you met Mr. Lethifer here?" She gestures to the men dressed in crab shell. "He is also an artist. A painter." "I so enjoyed seeing your sketches the other night. Swans." She smiles. "Did you ever finish that piece?" "I have been meaning to ask you how the charitable work in Flowerdene is going. Have you identified further needs? I had a notion to help with some of the on-going medical needs for the community, but I am not sure with whom to coordinate. Is it too dry a topic for a party?" -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Nell Evangeline Posts: 8 11/2/2016	From the throng of guests, a sharp-dressed rubbery man lopes towards the table. No, not a rubbery man, at second glance. There are finer details to notice; the sleeves that end in black leather gloves rather than tentacles, the curves which suggest a feminine form beneath the layers of fabric, the absence of boneless writhing. A lilting voice calls out, "Ah, so I haven't missed introductions!" "Apologies for my late arrival, sweetlings. I am the huntress Evangeline." She doffs her hat luxuriously, revealing seams in her rubbery mask. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you all in the flesh." As she speaks, she surveys her companions. Next to the pure midnight of Sapho's gown, the subtle peligin tint of her suit becomes apparent. Matching peligin eyes flit about from within her mask, from face to mask to ribbons to coral lips to face. The tentacles disguise her own lips, but an enthusiastic smile rings clear in her voice. "And what a pleasure it is, with company like this! Such beauty, such elegance, such vitality... This will be a night to remember, no?" -- Huntress Evangeline's profile page
	+1 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/2/2016	"And very happy Hallowmas to you too, Lady Sapho! I hope yours has been going well?" Sara addresses Sapho cheerily. Her expression continues as she turns to speak to Appolonia, offering a friendly wave to Mr Lethifer, "I don't believe we've met - a pleasure to meet you, Mr Lethifer. It is lovely to see you again as well, Appolonia." She raises a finger to punctuate her next statement. "I did finish that painting, and I'm fairly happy with it! I got a friend of mine to give a few pointers on the sky - that's always been my weakest area. I'll have to show it to you sometime." She grabs a treat from the nibbles tray as she searches her mind for the necessary information regarding Flowerdene. After a moment's pondering she acquires a pen and small notepad from a pocket, writing down some contact details before tearing it out and offering it to Appolonia. "I spoke to Siobhan about charity efforts a while back, and she mentioned the Itinerant Physician in Flowerdene for medical relief. My long-term efforts are directed to helping improve literacy in the area, so help on the medical front would absolutely be appreciated." The arrival of the huntress solicits yet another friendly wave of greeting. "Good evening, and happy hallowmas! It is good to meet you in person - I'm Sara Hysaro." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	Nell Evangeline wrote: "And what a pleasure it is, with company like this! Such beauty, such elegance, such vitality... This will be a night to remember, no?" "Undoubtedly, huntress!" Sapho answers with enthusiasm ... although an amused grin dances on her lips as she glances at Lethifer. -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	Appolonia gasps at Huntress Evangeline's clever costume, when she walks up to the table. "It is so nice to meet you. I'm Appolonia Von Ravenscroft. What a marvelous costume! All those tentacles! Memorable indeed." She turns back to Sara at her answer. "Oh, I would like to see the finished picture." She takes the contact information with a grateful smile. "Excellent. I'll follow-up and see how I can be most helpful." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/2/2016	Engaged in a discussion of opera with Appolonia, Lethifer's gestures are wide and not a little clumsy. Gems on his fingers glitter as he gesticulates. Two not-quite-gaudy, but certainly ostentatious, diamonds swing on chained earrings. He looks to be in his element, and quite merry. "A bit of this," he says of his paintings with an airy wave, "a bit of that. Here, also, and there. Always a project, more to be done." The easy smile stays precisely where it is as he graciously passes around hard-to-reach delectables. To Sapho, he nods as if this were the expected answer. "All the better! A horrid thing to horrid ends will go. This is justice! I will paint you another, if you wish. More to your tastes?" He greets the final arrivals with the same enthusiasm, taking it upon himself to fill glasses from what seems to be an endless supply of very acceptable wine. He gushes over the craftsmanship of the rubbery mask. He comments on the importance of fashion in the monster-hunting profession. Monsters, he believes, need much coaching in this area. "All together at lasts!" As if he has been very dear friends with everyone for years. He leans in, causing the creepy little crab-legs to click. "Now, who is having a confession to share?"
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	Appolonia thanks Lethifer when he fills her glass with wine. She takes a fortifying sip. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Nell Evangeline Posts: 8 11/2/2016	Nell receives both praise and wine with delight; she's beaming as she removes her mask for a sip, face bright in spite of her monster-hunter pallor. "You flatter me, citizens! Preparing this beast's flesh was certainly worth the effort if it delights ladies as lovely as the present company." She flashes a flirtatious smile, such that any one of the mentioned ladies might receive it: her teeth are serrated, like a shark's. Turning to Lethifer, she offers him the mask for a closer look at the craftsmanship. "You've a keen eye, and keener insight. How refreshing it is to meet someone like you, uninitiated and yet so quick to grasp the essence of the hunt! You see the same expression of the self in harpoon-work that's found in assembling the perfect outfit, and in each careful stitch in a handmade mask." When the table conversation turns to confessions, Nell speaks up "If I might start the proceedings with something small, I've a confession relevant to this very table. You see, what called me here tonight was nothing so wholesome as good company. You were quite astute to name blood as the table's theme, Lady Byron, for I came here hoping it would spill." The sanguine confession comes out in the same lilt as her dinner conversation. She rubs her thumb idly on the stygian ivory pommel of her cane. "I've no intention of striking the first blow, worry not. But you've surely heard the rumors about our host's close history with Knife and Candle, and noticed that plenty of the guests star in those bloody tales told in near every Wolfstack pub. Why, we've Wolfstack's own Morkan Kassington right here, and armed no less! Imagine if a brawl broke out now, in such a notable place, with such notable and dangerous combatants. Wouldn't it be glorious? Wouldn't it be famous? Wouldn't it be the perfect start to a new season of murder?" "It's an unlikely fantasy, I know. But a girl can dream. And just in case, I've brought this." She takes firm grip of the her cane and draws out the harpoon hidden within, just far enough to show off a glimpse of its long, hooked, wickedly sharp blade. She soon sheathes it once more, no small pride in her voice as she continues, "As a monster hunter, it is my duty to winnow the lesser terrors from the true. There are no true terrors in most pub brawls, but I happen to know that at least a few dine among us tonight. Revel in the thought with me, just for a moment. It would be transcendent." She drains her glass as the confession hangs in the air. -- Huntress Evangeline's profile page
	+1 link
Morkan Kassington Posts: 261 11/2/2016	Morkan gives a hearty chuckle at Nell's sanguine confession. "Haw! Easy there, missus. It's true, everyone here are a bit tasty with a shiv, but not all of them like that. It's not so beautiful if you harpoons someone for throwing a bread roll at you, innit? While we are yelping about blood.... how do you stay so clean, missus? Last time I bombed a zee-monster and I was turned purple for a week. Not even the Parlour of Virtue could do anything about it." The topic of literacy attracted his attention. "We haven't met have we, missus Hysaro? I am Morkan. You looking to teach people to write? I have a few candidates. If you take L.Bs. Prisoners-of-wars that lost their legs." edited by Morkan Kassington on 11/2/2016 -- Ladies of the Neath, here comes Morkan Kassington, the gem among gentlemen (He is actually a self-centered and foolish braggart, but he means no harm. Hit him up for social actions or dangerous lessons! Or just flirt.)
	+1 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/2/2016	Sara accepts the wine with a gracious thanks, glad to have a beverage that is not coffee in this establishment. She listens to the huntress' offered confession with interest, being mindful of her mask as she draws the cup to her lips. She sets the cup down before she speaks. "Ah, Knife and Candle. I enjoyed it when I was new. Not dueling itself, mind - just keeping up with the rankings and the rumors. Though I did get an invite into it from one player who noticed my interest. I never truly participated despite accepting, but I happened upon a bit of information that led me to acquiring a very interesting treasure." Sara smiles in an amused manner, though she elaborates no further. She still has the treasure, hidden carefully away as if it were still the rare prize it once was. Perhaps one day it shall be useful. She returns her attention to Evangeline, "It would be quite the interesting unlikely event...though I'd certainly not be jumping into the fray, personally." She turns her attention to Morkan's suggestion of teaching L.B.s how to write. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Morkan. And I shall keep that in mind - literacy is something that benefits everyone, no matter their status or circumstances." -- edited by Sara Hysaro on 11/2/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+1 link
Morkan Kassington Posts: 261 11/2/2016	Morkan smacked his forehead when he hears Sara's reply. He should have been more clear. "Sorry missus. I am offering teachers, not students. L.B.s maimed in battle, too weak to be a threat. They are lieutenants that can write well enough, and they take much less than human." -- Ladies of the Neath, here comes Morkan Kassington, the gem among gentlemen (He is actually a self-centered and foolish braggart, but he means no harm. Hit him up for social actions or dangerous lessons! Or just flirt.)
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	Appolonia listens with interest to Ms Evangeline's confession, and Mr. Kassington's thoughtful reply. "I confess that I enjoyed knife-and-candle in its day, and miss it, but probably a quite different experience of it. I was studying candle related rituals throughout the Neath. All the different ways candles are put into the body - gustatory, through wounds, the entirely different bell-and-candle routes. I found out about the moon league. The chance for a chase across town. Cryptic clues. In the end, getting caught. It was more about choreography and conversation through notes hidden about town than any sort of violence. At least for me." "I suppose" - she glances down at her costume - "I have not hidden well that in such games I enjoy being prey more than predator." "But, howsoever thrilling, it is not something I would want to see happen during a dinner party. Well said, Mr. Kassington." Her masked face turns toward him. A smile. "I know how hard these affairs are to organize. And opportunities to meet new people and to have conversation like this - they are rare and precious. I would not want that disrupted." "I should not be sorry to see such a thing occur in the future though, from the connections made at such an event. Though I suspect Huntress Evangeline" -- turning back to her -- "that you would prefer a quarry closer to your skill level. You seem positively fierce!" "I do like your idea that we enjoy contemplating how many of the Neath's wildest and most dangerous are under a single roof and enjoy the thrill of what could go wrong. A bit of imagination. Like reading a gothic novel. A shiver of fear. But the certainty of safety nonetheless." "Our hostess' reputation and courtesy to her must prevent it from devolving away from a charming opportunity for conversation. While we are her guests." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/2/2016	"Ah, sorry - I completely misunderstood," Sara apologies, a little embarrassed. Nonetheless, her stance remains the same. "Yes, anyone willing and able to teach will be considered. I'm hoping to fund a library in the area, and we'll be hosting the lessons through there." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/2/2016	Turning to Sara, Lady Byron continues, "Yours is a splendid undertaking, Ms Hysaro. I have an extensive library and I would be willing to donate parts of it your cause, should you find such a thing of use." -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/2/2016	Through lulls in conversation, Lethifer has taken to folding his napkin into elaborate shapes. He does this one-handed, the other occupied, always, by wine. He is still grinning mildly to himself ever since Sapho's death remark. "But with cautious," he says to the subject of the library. "Such a public establishing is not to be found in current in our city. Why this?" The napkin has become a folded sparrow, and its fabric wings lazily flutter. Lethifer shrugs. "Many reason, but cheifing I am suspect that Mr Pages will rob you quite completely if given half a moment. Through tariff, through censoring, or through checking out the interesting things and..." he flaps a hand to indicate the understatement, "misplacing them. Private libraries are safer for somewhat."
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	"Our Mayor Jenny considers literacy programs in the poorer areas of the city to be a high priority. Perhaps she could assist in the politics of such a thing, where they become interfering." "It is an interesting question what books are most useful in teaching literacy. Children's books? Would adult learners prefer something different? Is it best to find books that are written simply, but delightful in content to spur the turning of the pages? Like ... fairy tales? Or something a bit more dull but relevant to the person's daily routine. Like ... a newspaper." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
pillbox Posts: 94 11/1/2016	A teary eyed woman comes to your table and whispers to you. "I'm not one to gossip, but circumstances urge me to warn you - do you see that miserable rogue at table four? -" She tells you such terrible things about the man - his acts in the Shuttered palace, his notoriety in the tomb colonies, how he stole her and her guests' wine. Such terrible things -- Greeting from the lady http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Pillbox !
	+1 link
lethifer Posts: 13 11/1/2016	A glossy painted crab-shell is making languid dips atop the neck of a very drunk person. Its little legs, with their embedded little rubies, make unsettling little clicks as Lethifer nods slowly but vigorously in conspiratorial outrage. "-- it cannot!-... the thrice-damned fiend!-... madam. The barbarism you are today enduring. Yes!-..." he is nodding along as their distraught visitor speaks of someone. He has not turned to look at the subject of the discussion, and doesn't appear entirely sure that they are speaking of anyone in particular. Words simply tumble from the crab. "Terrible influence. And where are the constables!" He makes to slam a jewelled hand upon the table at this, but misjudges its trajectory, sending a fork somersaulting over his shoulder to an unknown fate. "The city is gone to villainy! Why, only Sunday I have heard--..." He rambles on for a bit, diverging into wild rumors, some very clearly invented, few making more than passing sense. His strange dialect makes the tales no easier to follow. It has the effect of quieting the distraught woman, however, and he generously shares from his bottle of spirits besides. He grins at the large hunter as he arrives, wide-teethed smile peeking out from the mask's chitinous edge.
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/1/2016	A woman approaches Table 5. Her mask is a porcelain half-mask, covering her forehead, eyes, nose, and cheeks. A woman’s face. Sleeping or dead. The closed eyes have thick feminine eye-lashes painted along the pale cheeks. The eye holes must be disguised among those lashes. Her golden hair is down, as if she were about to sleep, or already sleeping. It falls to her hips. She has never worn it down in public before. Two red circles against her neck are attached to her thin leather choker, and suspended above it. Each drapes a bright red ribbon that trails down to her waist - bright crimson against her white dress. Vampire bites. The choker has a pendant. A rose gold apple, with an inscription on it. Her dress is custom-made. It is a white dress in the shape and pattern of a cotton nightgown, but constructed from a thicker material appropriate for an external garment, over a white chemise. She turns to the woman present. [@pillbox] “Pardon me, are you Miss Evangeline? I was hoping to find her here. This is Table 5, yes? I thought she - you? - might be able to help with introductions?” “I am Appolonia Von Ravenscroft.” She turns to the two gentlemen. “I’m afraid I’ve not had the pleasure.” She looks for two empty chairs together. “You do not mind if I hold a place for Lady Sapho?” -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Sara Hysaro Moderator Posts: 4514 11/3/2016	"Thank you very much for the generous offer! Books are certainly welcome donations to the fundraiser." Sara replies cheerily to Lady Sapho. She leaves the matter of the Ministry of Public Decency alone, being well-acquainted with their rules and the individual Evaluators' blind spots over her years of work with Mr Pages. "Tempting the otherwise apathetic with secrets relevant to their interests does seem the best path for teaching. It helps to have a reason to learn, beyond simple practical applications." She delights in the prospect of producing a tome of Neathean mythology, even if such a work would almost certainly be proscribed upon its completion. Still, all the information she might discover during its production would be well worth the effort. "I would be more than happy to assist in such an undertaking in any way I can." -- edited by Sara Hysaro on 11/3/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Sara%20Hysaro Please do not send SMEN, cat boxes, or Affluent Reporter requests. All other social actions are welcome. Are you a Scarlet Saint? Send a message my way to be added to the list.
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/3/2016	"Thinking about mythology, and with such a keen group of artists and art collectors, brings to mind the most famous paintings of the gods and legends of the Surface. All the wonderful versions of Venus or Aphrodite, for example. Reclining at a mirror. Or on a clam-shell." "I don't think I've ever seen a picture with Storm, Stone, or Salt personified, or even depicted in an abstract form. But that sort of art must exist. Or should. They ought to have a whole symbology making them easily identifiable. Or perhaps it could be commissioned. For our tome of Neathean mythology, if for no other purpose." -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Nell Evangeline Posts: 8 11/3/2016	The discussion of Neathy gods has the huntress animated, gesturing broadly as she speaks, her eyes like lamplight on the surface of the Unterzee. Before she can jump in with recitals of zuperstitious zailing-zongs gained in her line of work, however, the dance gong rings out. She recalls herself, and by the time its note fades to nothing she wears the rakish smile she started the night with. "Good Lady Hysaro, talk of charity is well-received -- very well, in fact," she slips a calling card into her hand. "Call upon me in my lodgings, if you please, I've a collection of zailor's tales that belong in your library. And a more private recital, if you like~" she finishes with a wink. "But, I digress! Talk of charity is well-received, but for my tastes, the night is too young for such improving conversation. We've wine to drink, dances to share, and ladies to woo!" She drains her ink-stained coffee and glances among the aforementioned ladies, gauging each's interest in turn at the prospect of a dance with the handsome zee-touched butch. edited by Nell Evangeline on 11/3/2016 edited by Nell Evangeline on 11/3/2016 -- Huntress Evangeline's profile page
	+1 link
pillbox Posts: 94 11/2/2016	You hear the sound of a gong, seemingly emanating from everywhere (you suspect a clever cook with a very large soup pot). A space on the floor has been cleared, and a nervous looking string quartet begins to play. (The dance floor is now open in a separate thread to anyone who wishes to dance) edited by pillbox on 11/2/2016 -- Greeting from the lady http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Pillbox !
	+1 link
Appolonia Posts: 248 11/2/2016	Appolonia returns Miss Evangeline's smile, blushing a little herself at Sapho's splendid remarks. She leans forward with obvious interest when Lethifer suggests mythology. "Oh yes! You are exactly right." "And there is very little Surface mythology that is not relevant here. Storm seems to have, in it, aspects of many Surface gods of storm. Thor. Perun. Indra, Xolotl, Lei Gong, Set, Adad, and Chaac." "But you are right, Huntress. It seems like a book of specifically Neathean mythology would be so useful. Storm, Salt, and Stone. Stories of those they have touched. How our Garden is both Hesperides and Eden, and all its own myths. How the things that fly carry the air of the Garden. And Parabola. What it means to walk beyond the mirrors." "Oh, what an undertaking that would be to compile! But it would be tremendously interesting. And the artists among us like Sara and Mr. Lethifer could perhaps help with illustrations." She turns, startled, at the sound of the chime for dancing. -- http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
	+1 link
Lady Sapho Byron Posts: 770 11/3/2016	lethifer wrote: "Mythology," the painter replies at once. "Nothing teaches so much so simply. Not fairy things, but gods and devils once of worship." His folded sparrow collapses upon itself, and he distractedly begins to twist a new shape. "Anu, Anlil, Enki and the rest, for begin. Like carriage-crashes, all. Their follies cannot to look away from. The wise one will learn much of all people through the mad fools we have prayed upon." Lady Byron nods in solemn approval of this observation. "There is naught that holds more truth than myths." lethifer wrote: He clicks a spoon against the bottom of his mask. "Prayed TO. Please forgive." And then chuckles, "Both ways are probably correct." edited by Lady Sapho Byron on 11/3/2016 -- http://fallenlondon.com/Profile/Lady%20Sapho%20L%20Byron Fighting the Menace of Corsetry Since 1892.
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/3/2016	A young gentleman appears in an amethystine robe, sporting a viridescent stripe up his chest. His mask: folds of green leaves, carmine silk petals, and ridiculously - at the center - his own bearded mug, unadorned save a pair of golden fangs. As Exceptional Rose costumes go, you’ve seen worse. “Ah, the distinguished guests of Table Five! Professor Ginneon Thursday, at your service. I’ve taken the liberty of bringing over a mushroom champagne. Cultivated from a splendid harvest of girolles.” The professor sends the cork flying - its contents spill over with a joyful fizz. “There was an individual at Table Eight eating live…well…I won’t go into what they were eating. Suffice it to say I thought it best to stretch my legs.” He begins filling glasses all around. -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/3/2016	“Now then. Let’s play a game. Very high stakes.” He smiles sportively. “If I can guess who you are, you drink. If not, you get to name my penance.” The professor takes a healthy sip as he looks around the table. “Let’s see…Mr Kassington - a most efficient Licentiate. You made this far too easy. No mask at all. Though I’m glad to see you here unscathed from the wars.” “The Crab is…Mr Lethifer, yes? A painter and bon vivant par excellence! As a botanical avatar of love, I’m playing matchmaker in my costume tonight - though I doubt you’ll have any need of my help.” “And you. Either a Somnolent Porcelain Doll, or a Death Mask. That would be…ah! Yes! Ms Ravenscroft. Watching your latest opera - I was transported. I have sent all my friends to see it. All my enemies as well, in the hope their shriveled humanity might be rekindled.” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/3/2016	“The White Raven…hmmm. Ms Hysaro, is it? One of Fallen London’s greatest philanthropists. Though I hear that is the least of your many wonderful and secret roles.” “The Rubbery Man. You are Mr…wait. No. Definitely a Ms. Ah! Yes, of course. The Huntress Evangeline. Heavens, your ivory cane looks sharp. I certainly hope you’re not hunting anyone here tonight.” Across the room, the musicians play a lively Viennese waltz. (Of course it’s Viennese.) “And you…hmm.” He scans the last guest, as though puzzling over a map to some foreign city. “Sharp teeth…a certain pallor. You are Lord Byron’s ‘Vampyre' - or some other unliving revenant found in penny dreadfuls. But as for your name…I am at a loss.” He sips the last of his champagne. “I suppose I am at the mercy of your sentencing.” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/3/2016	A gentleman in loose fitting tomb-colonist bandages approaches the table. "Lady Byron, how have you been this fine evening." -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+1 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/3/2016	"I have been enjoying the excellent celebration. Such excellent company and wine. Though unfortunately the table I'm at has become frightfully dull at the moment." -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+1 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/3/2016	"Appolonia. It is wonderful to see you again." Lord Gazter similes underneath the bandages. "I am glad that you rather enjoyed my book, and I am honored by your decision to make it part of your own collection." edited by Lord Gazter on 11/3/2016 -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/3/2016	Lady Sapho Byron wrote: Lord Byron's 'Vampyre' laughs with delight. "It is not wisdom, sir, to throw yourself, with such casual abandon, on the mercy of an 'unliving revenant found in penny dreadfuls.' Still, as wine is not what I thirst for," she continues, cutting her eyes to Ms Von Ravenscroft at her side, "your ignorance is my boon. But your penance! What shall it be?" she asks, with a wicked twist on her grin. "Ah!" the 'Vampyre' says with a snap of her fingers, an idea having sprung, "amuse and instruct us with a story about the follies of gambling and prevaricating!" “No, I suppose trusting in the mercy of…ah, yes, Countess Karnstein is not especially wise. But what good has wisdom ever done me? And what is wisdom if not the death of stories?” As he talks, the Rose claps Lord Gazter on the back, proffering a glass, and another to the Violant Skull. “No heroine ever need embark on her adventure if she already knows the moral. And no story I have witnessed ever came from a day prudently spent that went according to plan. If I may?” He flags down a Harried Maître D’ who adds extra chairs for the new guests. “Indeed - aversion to wisdom has served me well. How else could I now tell this story?” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	Finding himself acquitted, Ginneon smiles and calls over the Harried Maître D’. “Another bottle for the fine guests of Table Five. Personally, I’m leaning towards a Surface vintage.” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Lord Gazter Posts: 665 11/4/2016	"The tragic fate of the tomb-colonist. If the injustice done to them was not enough, they are also doomed to the wither away or be used a host for the moths to emerge from." Lord Gazter sighs wearily and places his empty glass upon the table. "A truly moving story. I hope that life after these tragic events was kinder to you and your ventures since have proven more fortuitous?" Lord Gazter asks hopefully. edited by Lord Gazter on 11/4/2016 -- Lord Gazter: a charming gentleman of noble birth and a person of significant influence. Victoria Crow: a spirited la.. young woman and freshly anointed firebrand. Get a copy of the Phlegethonian Gazette for pertinent and trustworthy news! Only five pence!
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	The Harried Maître D’ returns with a dusty bottle of something old and French. “I appreciate your words, Lord Gazter,” says Ginneon. With every glass filled, he raises his own. “You’ve heard my story, which I believe doubles as a confession. Let us drink, then, to the sacred rite of Hallowmas, and to the truth in stories.” He sips, and his face returns to its natural, mirthful expression. “Who’s next?” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link
Ginneon Thursday Posts: 265 11/4/2016	“Ms Hysaro, when I first mentioned your sundry roles in our fair city, you seemed to have more to say on the matter. Might I inquire further?” -- Ginneon Thursday: Revelrous Professor of Benthic Departments of Mycoenology, Lepidoptery
	+1 link

Failbetter Games Community

Home ▶ Fallen London » Mr Pages’ Fabularities

Table 5 at a Hallowmas Party of 1894