16808/WWII Veterans Victory Dance and Exhibit

WWII Veterans Victory Dance and Exhibit
Date of Scene:	12 January 2024
Location:	Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum
Synopsis:	Damian Wayne hosts a party for WW2 Veteran Awareness. Bucky, Steve and Diana are the true stars of the show!
Cast of Characters:	Damian Wayne, Natasha Romanoff, Bunny Macleod, Clara Jennings, Diana Prince, Kate Kane, Steve Rogers, Sunny Harlow, Summer Gleeson, Ted Grant, Doreen Green, America Chavez, Cassie Sandsmark, James Barnes, Richard Stadler, Caleb Dykstra, Lucy Blaze, Yaretzi Acama, Inez Temple, Kenesha, Pamela Isley, Bruce Wayne

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Damian Wayne has posed:
Welcome to the World War II exhibit at the Intrepid Museum! Once one boards the Intrepid, which is lit up brightly for the event, it is a short trip down onto the hangar bay of the grand old ship, it's as if stepping back in time. Decorated as if it was one of the large olive drab hangars that were popular at the end of the war, the concrete floor has been temporarily replaced with wood planking, so much the better for dancing on.

Partiotic bunting has been hung around the hangar, all of it billowing towards a large DC-3 that is hanging up in the middle of the museum, the bunting set to make it appear as if it's trailing from the engines of the transport aircraft.

Upon the raised stage is a small band that is performing standards from the era, with vocals being provided by the group 'The Victory Belles', a trio of young women dressed as if they were red, white and blue USO girls, complete with short skirts and garrion caps. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sczO-ZJSxgI for example)

A buffet table has been set out with sandwiches and other assorted finger foods and punch, and at the end of the table are small donation boxes, set up for various charities that benefits Veterans, aimed at the care and comfort of those from the era being represented tonight.

Displays have been set up around the hangar for those that want to look at some of the artifacts that have been brought in for showing. Besides the major ones, including the Cosmic Cube and Spear of Longinus, there are several rifles and other weapons from the era, a captured Panzer and a Sherman tank that survived from D-Day to the end of the war, and several photographs. A small display piece states that all the planking that is being used for the floor tonight is from the HMS Intrepid (Intrepid's WW2 British Sister), an aircraft carrier from the war.

The music is upbeat and vibrant, perfect those just arriving to mingle and get acquainted with others, for couples arriving together that want to get an early jump on the dancing, and to hopefully entice wallflowers to not be so wallflowery.

For those that are interested, there are other aircraft parked here, just past a roped off area for the party, vintage WWII and Cold War aircraft that can be toured and explored for those that do not want to be part of the actual party or just explore, helpful tour guides can offer assistance.

Natasha Romanoff has posed:
Many of those present are here in costume or things related to the era. Natalia Romanova, the Red Room escapee, member of SHIELD and the Avengers is not. She's wearing a leather jacket and jeans, and has her hair resting over her shoulders. A light application of blush has darkened her cheeks, making her stand out a bit less than she usually does. She glances over at the Panzer on display. A Panzer IV, the workhorse medium tank of the Nazi army. Her expression is neutral as she looks down upon it - places where dings were hammered out, fresh paint applied, fixings made over the decades. Places where metal plating was taken off and replaced. Perhaps for display, perhaps for wear and tear over time in storage. She gazes upon it for a few moments, like one would an old enemy. Then she puts her hands over in her pockets and walks away thoughtfully. Her expression is relaxed - even if a bit tired, perhaps.

Bunny Macleod has posed:
    "I got this, I've got this, I've got this..." comes a quiet sound from a short figure as she makes her way into the hall, accompanied by a much taller woman.

    Bunny Macleod, Prisma of the Young Avengers, is VERY NERVOUS coming into this, representing her team (and also supporting one of her bestie's exes -- it's complicated). Her pearlescent pink heels tap against the floor, showing her nude stockings (with the Cuban hem at the back of her calves, T-straps holding snug along her foot. She wears a simple, wool A-line dress with rolled up sleeves to her elbows and three large buttons, also in a light rose pink. The collar on the dress is 'popped' to look a bit fun, and between the bright pink waves of victory rolls in her hair, there's perched a simple military hat. Definitely an 'inspired by' costume, and the dress was the right era -- and vintage.

    "I can do this without flying off I can do this without flying off -- ohmigosh Sunny what if I fly through the roof?!" she whispers out, nervously to her date, reaching to loop her arm with the other woman.

    She's carrying a small canvas bag with her for this evening. "Also, gotta take selfies with a tank for Mark. For Reasons." she whispers, bouncy in spite of her nerves

Clara Jennings has posed:
    One of the better parts of working for a shadowy organization focused on historical artifacts is the many parties one gets to attend. That is why Clara is here. Well, that is the reason she was ordered to come. As for why she really wants to be here, well, that is dancing. In fact, the moment she hears the music there is an extra bounce to her step, a restless energy that just demands expression. Expression, and a partner or two who knows their way around the dance floor.

    Clara dressed for the occasion and wears a knee-length swing dress. The dress is a simple, yet stylish white adorned with classic black polka dots. Her graceful movements are accentuated whenever she twirls and spins, which she does quite a bit, showing how eager she is to dance. The dress features a halter neckline, the better to show off her shoulders. She has become a bit bolder tonight, with her nails and lips both a vibrant pink.

    To truly fit into the era, Clara has done considerable work. Clara's auburn hair is styled with a voluminous, smoothly swept-back crown, showcasing a distinct height at the front. Her long tresses in the back are tied up, so that few of those locks get much past her shoulder blades. (reference: https://i.imgur.com/0wzFp80.png)

    Now... who shall she try to entice onto the dance floor first?

Diana Prince has posed:
Diana steps into the event tonight, dressed in an appropriate attire. Her dark brown hair, meticulously styled in glamorous waves, cascades around her shoulders, reminiscent of the classic Hollywood allure. Her tailored ensemble, a nod to the era's fashion, accentuates her athletic form with a form-fitting, knee-length A-line dress. The deep navy fabric, adorned with delicate white polka dots, pays homage to the vintage glamour of the time. Completing the ensemble are classic black-hued pumps and a small, tasteful leather clutch, both matching the rich burgundy hue of her perfectly applied lipstick.

Diana's eyes roam over the decor of the event, a smile touching her red lips as she offers larger smiles to those who look upon her, or recognize her outright. She steps further in to the congregating guests, her height over six feet in her heeled shoes tonight, making her stand out as ever she is one to do.

She moves casually, gracefully interacting with the environment around her, as she takes it all in and settles in to the evening.

Kate Kane has posed:
Of course, one doesn't have to be a member of a shadowy organization to attend a party. At least when one is a billionaire philanthropist anyway (no, not that one, that's her cousin.)

Kate Kane arrives via limo, not having an and-one for this specific event as she walks in, dressed for the occasion as she wears an authentic replication of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League uniform for Gotham City. Specifically, the Gotham Sirens, as she's wearing the black uniform blouse with red trim and lettering of "Gotham Sirens - 52." The matching black short skirt is appropriate for the era, but perhaps not for the weather, as it also has that matching red trim. Knee-high red socks with black stripes adorn her calves, and she has black athletic shoes on her feet. She has a black ball cap on her head, and her long red hair flows out underneath it.

Glancing around with a smile on her lips, she walks in and prepares to mingle with those present, looking rather pleasantly surprised with the turnout it seems.

Steve Rogers has posed:
The lack of a red carpet was a small relief for Steve. Not one that he'd admit, as he readily lets the photographers take photos at whatever charitable events he attends. But that doesn't mean he wouldn't prefer the anonymity of slipping into an event more discretely.

Which is what he's done tonight. He might have come in through a different route than that which the velvet ropes guide one down to the hangar deck by. Steve is wearing one of his old dress uniforms that someone donated back to him after he came out of the ice. It is in good shape if not quite as crisp of coloring 80 years later.

Steve stands before one of the Panzer tanks, his hands clasp gently behind his back as he looks it over. A wry expression comes to his face and he gives a tiny shake of his head at some thought.

Sunny Harlow has posed:
Despite her species long lives, Sunny Harlow wasn't around during the 1940's, but having grown up as she did among an earth family with the same schooling as any other girl her age? She was more than aware of teh significance. Given her skill with costume design and a perchant for cosplay one might nearly have expected her to turn up very dressed in a perfect uniform of her own but...that hadn't been the choice tonight.

Instead she'd seemingly gone for the vintage with the -slightest- spash of pinup USO, the black and green dress baring most of her shoulders and the top of her neckline but leaving her skirt at a similar length to Bunny's in an evocation of an Army dress without imitation.

Entering with Prisma, Indestructibelle actually gives a little giggle as she grasps Bunny's hand where her arm was looped. "I promise not to let you float away."

As for the tank, she grins, nodding her head. "Absolutely. Maybe we can even borrow one of those helmets for the photo if we ask nicely..."

Summer Gleeson has posed:
Gotham's favorite news anchor is in attendance. Summer Gleeson has been keeping to the fringes as she is taking notes of who is here. What people are wearing. All of the jazz that goes along with events like this! The redhead has kept it low key this evening with a finely tailored hunter green dress that could pass for the 40's. She's not here to take away from the event. She's here to document and to enjoy some of the evening. For now, there is people watching to do!

Ted Grant has posed:
Ted Grant pondered long and hard what to wear. He first considered his Wildcat Classic uniform. That needed some repairs, it turned out. It was 80 years old. Then he considered a Zoot suit... he never brought that off. Pfft. So he shows up in boxing trunks, worn over a thermal suit, with his Heavy Weight World's Champion robe. Of course the belt repeats that worn proudly at his waist, and he has his gloves tied together hanging on either side of his neck like mittens. He enters the picture of decorum then looks around and yells, "Inez, where the hell are ya?"

Doreen Green has posed:
When Doreen Green arrived at the Intrepid she got quite a few looks, and for once it wasn't entirely because of the tail. It was more because she's obviously too young to have been a wartime hero, and not the high society type that typically come to these events. No ill will towards the door check doing there job! But the doubts are put to rest when Doreen shows that she does indeed have tickets. Given to her by Damian Wayne himself no less. When asked if she has a date the second ticket is for, she instead points at the squirrel sitting on her shoulder, who waves a paw.

The guy just -eyes- her for a moment... then sighs and doesn't make a fuss in letting her in. It's a celebration for veterans and wartime superheros, a girl with a bushy tail and a squirrel as her second is likely far from the weirdest thing that will be brought up tonight.

Doreen did properly dress for the occasion. I mean, a leather bomber jacket and vest are part of her usual attire, so it wasn't hard to work around. She just swapped the usual shorts&leggings combo for an era appropriate skirt, older style boots, full gloves instead of the fingerless climbing ones, and added a bomber pilot cap with goggles to compliment the jacket. Honestly she probably looks more like a pin-up poster girl than a proper soldier, but it's the thought and effort that counts!

Likewise Monkey Joe has traded his usual bowtie and tophat for an olive green uniform jacket and army helmet, likely borrowed from some toy soldier doll. But he's the more PR oriented and crowd comfortable of her squirrel companions so he was the obvious choice for the night.

Then where is Tippy-Toe one might ask? Her and Gadget-Gregg are outside, having rounded up some of the other local squirrels to be 'on patrol' so the heroes and old-timers can enjoy their night off.

America Chavez has posed:
The sound of bubblegum popping from behind the Young Avenger contingent that came in is the leggy Latina who tended to come and go from their presence as often as she saw fit. America Chavez is dressed in a very bright red, white and blue USO girl dress with the lapels open showing off the stars emblazoned there. Over it all is worn a bit of a beaten up denim jacket with stars down the sleeves as well because, let's face it, it's muy frio outside in Winter. So the modern denim jacket and beat-up Chucks she wore detracted from the whole 'authenticity' thing for the sake of not freezing her culo off.

America pauses just inside the doorway with hands stuffed into the pockets of her jacket as she blows another bubble which expands, and smack-pops back out of existance a second later. "Huh. I guess dancing was even something old people did when they were our age."

Cassie Sandsmark has posed:
Being the social media loving, Instagram posting, tiktok dancing modern heroine that she is, Cassie will rarely turn down an opportunity to cosplay! Also, Diana really wanted to go to this thing for some reason. She likes all that old-timey war stuff, even if this is the wrong war.

Mostly, though, a party is a party, and a WAYNE party is, well, even bigger than that. Despite the ability to fly, they emerge from the elevator on the tower that provides access from the pier to the very very huge aircraft carrier, and makes their way across the skybridge from it to the main deck of the ship. She's been here before, it's pretty much a must-do NYC landmark, and hosts all kind of fun events, from historical stuff to concerts to science-themed things (since they've got a genuine space shuttle on the thing!). This seems like a mix of columns A and B. And still, even if it's familiar, she can't help but be excited by all the displays, from the permanent ones (the X-Men arent't the only people to boast one of those spy planes!) to the stuff specific to the event. "How'd they get a TANK up here?!"

It's a funny question when, well, SHE could very well just lift it up here, but don't sweat the details!

Dress code wise? Well, she's doing her best Peggy Carter impression, in an olive green uniform. Skirt, heels, tie, a few (obviously fake! she's not gonna be disrespectful) insignia and patches, the whole routine!

James Barnes has posed:
    It'd be a mistake to think the man lurking a few steps behind Steve Rogers as a member of security. An easy mistake to make, though, given he's wearing a very boring suit in all black. He's not fitting the theme, not really, though the woolen jacket he's apparently forgotten to unbutton and take off at the event's coat check is timeless enough to maybe be 1940s appropriate if you squint. The single glove is a bit unusual, as is the way he hugs that arm to his side lightly.

    The reality is, Bucky's only here because Steve asked. These sorts of big events aren't his scene, not at all, but if one thing hasn't changed since WW2 is that Bucky Barnes is incapable of saying no to anything Steve Rogers asks. It's probably in his SHIELD file as a listed weakness.

    "It could be worse," he finally manages to admit. "Plenty of places to duck out through." Oh, he's definitely eyeing up the exits. That's just normal Bucky behavior, always on the lookout. But at least for now he's not running for the hills.

Richard Stadler has posed:
     Stadler does find getting tickets for something like this is simple; he may not exactly be active at his VFW post, but he certainly followed enough e-mails to get some tickets when the option presents itself... okay, the price for a single night made him wince a little bit, but where else could you find this sort of group together? And a Sherman!

Despite one's age, a certain type never grew out of liking musuems, and Stadler was leaning forward, rather engrossed in the text over the M1 Garand in a display case. "So this one..." He says to himself. "Wow, all the way to the end of the war? God, the condition on it..."

Sadly, Stadler isn't exactly playing into the costume theme. It's a standard, off the rack suit he might normally wear to work, with the only accoutrement being a small Purple Heart pin over the breast. Appropriate, certainly, but anything more than that felt... uncomfortably like a costume, these days.

Caleb Dykstra has posed:
Dressed for the time with an ellegant cut and complete with a fedora and everything, Caleb is looking at the tanks, admiring their design, his mind deconstructing the engineering process that led to two of the deadliest weapons in the Second World War, made to intimidate and destroy. It would've been incredible to see them in action - even it would likely be the last thing you'd see if you were up close.

"Not gonna lie... I'd need a change of shorts if I had one of these coming at me."

He looks around as he moves towards the pictures area, looking for familiar faces...

And he spots Cap, likeliest the most familiar face here right now, to whom he offers an old 40s greeting (when in Rome, right?).

Lucy Blaze has posed:
A woman cast in red ought to turn heads at her appearance, especially when wearing pearl-white hair in brushed out waves of a vintage shared with Lauren Bacall. Lucy doesn't seek to make a noisy entrance onto the Intrepid, however, using the cover of a chattering couple to screen her entry. Crowds offer a modicum of blending in, as much as anyone can blend in when choosing a battle-cry of a colour. The lush scarlet dress she wears could be stolen from the archives of Confidential Agent or any number of mid-Forties silver screen wardrobes, and if vintage, may well be alarming someone for having walked off from their collection.

It's real and tailor-made to her figure. After getting a couple displays deep into things, she takes stock of her surroundings. Foremost anyone familiar -- figures out of history books and museum displays, living legends. Someone of the era might even recognize her. People like survivors of previous conflicts beyond the Great War to the siege of Troy.

She centres close to one of the vehicles, casting a discerning look its way occasionally. Yes, it's a very impressive Sherman. "Think of the maintenance bills," she says in Richard's direction.

Yaretzi Acama has posed:
Yaretzi was given a ticket to the event at Titan's Tower, and made room in her schedule for it. She's shown up in a black, long-sleeved evening gown. It's not a style of dress from the 40's, but she at least tried to dress up. Having gotten in the door without drawing much attention, mostly because she's 'a nobody' when compared to the likes of Diana of Themyscira or Steve Rogers or any of the others who've shown up as true icons of then -and- now, she wandered about the place until she came to one of the items on display.

Her shrill "EEEEEEEEEeeeeeeeeeee...!" speaks of how she's fan-girling over the original Captain American shield from World War II, and she's sorta bouncing on her toes in front of it with her hands clasped together against her chest as if trying so very, very hard to not reach out and touch the glass of the display case containing the thing that got her attention -- and maybe drew attention to her, as well.

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers turns his head as he hears the familiar voice. If Steve has any opinion of Bucky's attire it doesn't show through that genuine smile that comes from the presence is long-time best friend. "Been awhile since we had to jump off the deck of one of these," he says with a little tap of his foot against the aircraft carrier's hangar deck. "But that's always a quick way out as I recall."

He turns back to look at the Panzer tank again, and giving another tiny little shake of his head. "It's good that people are preserving some of those days. But I won't lie, Buck. I can't say that I love seeing one of these again. Way too many of them back in the day," he says, resting a hand on the tank's treads for a few moments before letting it go.

He turns back from the tank, seeing the gesture from Caleb and returning a nod of his head. The sound of Yaretzi's squeal draws Cap's gaze for a moment, and a wry, soft grin as he realizes the source of it. But he finally gives Bucky his full attention then. "I do have to say it all takes me back a bit. Especially the music. How many of those USO dances did we attend in all do you think? A dozen?"

Inez Temple has posed:
At Ted's undignified call, on his heels comes a tall drink of water built like one of those old Coca Cola glasses: All curves and long leg. Inez knows her aesthetic, and despite the dress code has managed to keep true to it by dressing as an pinup girl straight from the nose of a WW2 Bomber. In particular, the theme known as 'Pistol Packin' Mama'.

Given she's going to a moderately prestigious event, she's classed it up somewhat: While she's wearing a pair of high heeled cowboy boots in white with rhinestones and a matching white hat, she's thrown a pair of shorts on under the matching denim-and-rhinestone skirt and is wearing a band across her chest under the cowgirl vest, likewise rhinestone-studded. The choice of attire also allows her to wear pistols at her hips, although they look fake. Her hair is in victory rolls, and she's painted with red lips and smoky eye as she flicks the brim of her hat back and walks up to Ted. "Howdy there, Champ. This ain't y' front porch, partner. Don'tr gotta shout like that."

Damian Wayne has posed:
As for Damian Wayne, he is already present, making sure to sign off on a few last touches. "Sorry this is taking a moment, Father never told me what it takes to host one of these events." he comments quietly to himself.

For his costume for the evening, he has chosen the classic 'Foyle's War' suit. A three piece, single breasted again, the jacket being a two button affair with a single-breasted style, with medium shoulder pads, peaked lapels and an unvented rear, with three button detailing on the cuffs. The waistcoat is the same grey with six buttons and four pockets with a high-fastening front, one of the pockets containg a chain that holds a pocket watch in one pocket that is attached to one of the waistcoat buttons. Beneath that is a white dress shirt complete with a thin red tie. A black leather belt holds up a pair of dress trousers, well tailored to his legs and down to a pair of black, patent leather shoes in a high polish.

Standing on the side of the stage as he waits for the current song to die down, the young man drums the small notecard at his side with a just a hint of nervousness. Once they finish, the middle lead of the Victory Belles steps up and offers a smile. "Good evening! Allow me to introduce our host tonight, Damian Wayne!"

Stepping onto the stage, the young man makes his way to his mark, a hint of his smile touching his usually severe features. He turns to face the crowd, and draws in a breath. He'd so rather be in a dark rooftop at the moment, but, he forces that feeling down, and clears his throat, "Good evening, all!" he offers, a hint of a falter in his voice. Nerves.

"I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight. We have plenty of music, dancing, and food, so don't be shy about partaking it all!" he offers brightly, trying to find an optimistic tone to take. "But before we return to all that... if we can take a moment. I know that there are those here that were present for it all. And I want to thank them for it. I'm not going to ask them to advance and be recognized, but I do want to make sure they are appreciated for their efforts. And I will also ask that you look to the end of the table. Those boxes just represent a few of the charities that have dedicated themselves to the dwindling population of the Greatest Generation. If you would consider a contribution, or better yet, offering your time to these generous organizations, it would be appreciated. All donations made tonight will be matched by the Wayne Foundation."

And with that, he realizes he's at the finish line and lets out a breath. "So, if we can give a big round of applause to our heroes, here and no longer with us, we'll get back to the music and dancing. Enjoy yourselves!"

Natasha Romanoff has posed:
Natasha Romanova isn't the type that's a dancer. Or particularly social. She's here to support friends. She glances over at the Sherman. A relatively servicable tank, easy to maintain and produced in large numbers. With the Americans, everything was standardized down to if it could fit in a cargo container and the weight of the pontoon bridges sent to help them get through France. She looks over at it for a few moments, before she glances over at the woman in red that's going on past her. A ghost of a smile passes by her face for a moment as she heads in the direction of Lucy. She makes her approach subtle, but not stealthy.

"I saw you when I was a child and a few times since then, and you've never aged." Not that the Kheran warrior would do so. Or had in her few millenia of life. "So what brings you here?" She was familiar with the old warrior mostly by reputation and a few times on opposite sides, perhaps, throughout the decades of her life. Not many would look at Natasha's lifespan as but that of a mayfly.

Diana Prince has posed:
Diana spends a few moments speaking with a few familiar faces, before she turns toward Cassie. Stepping alongside, she speaks softly toward her younger sibling and protege. "See? Even parties centered around 'old things' can be fun." She chides the blonde, before her eyes catch sight of the stage, and the young man stepping up to the mic upon it. Like many others, Diana offers a soft applause to Damian's presence, and a smile at what he says.

When he finishes, Diana regards the boxes he'd spoken of, and motions toward Cassie. "Donate as what you see fit." She tells Cassie, "I know how much you love to spend my money, afterall." More teasing, and Diana hasn't even touched a alcoholic beverage, yet!

Speaking of which, the Princess is offered a glass by a serving attendee, and accepts it with a sincerely happy smile upon her ruby red hued lips. She quietly thanks them, before taking a testing sip.

Ted Grant has posed:
Ted Grant slips an arm around Inez' shoulders. "Between you and me, I'm not sure /I/ belong here. Captain America, Barnes Diana, I was just on the Homefront chasing bootleggers and racketeers, making appearances at the USO. I didn't have millions of well armed Nazi's trying to end me. I mean what does this belt mean next to what they did? I knocked down the most guys." He looks at the Spear of Longinius replica. At least he hopes it's a replica. He undergoes a rare silence when he isn't reading a newspaper.

Kenesha has posed:
Kenesha makes her way inside the Intrepid with a faint smile for all the nostalgia being thrown around. The decorations, the memorabilia, even the replica aritfacts and reolics! There's a nod given to the quality of those replicas as she passes by the cases.

She's arrived in her actual 'flyboy' uniform worn during the war. The olive drab wool USAAF crush cap with it's brown leather trim and brim, and the brass Eagle Crest front and center, with brass buttons at either temple. The brown leather flight jacket complete with patches for unit and rank. The tan button down shirt with necktie. Brown leather gloves with a thick cuff at the wrist. Tan slacks with the cuffed hems. And her flight boots, of course.

There's an additional of a slim brown leather satchel that hangs crossbody, not strictly uniform, but she's rarely seen without it. Moving around the room, she watches the people as she casually makes her way towards familiar faces. Approching Bucky with a nod and a faint smile, "Thought that was you. Twice in as many days? Did I do something right, or horribly wrong?"

Richard Stadler has posed:
     Stadler take a moment to realize he was being spoken to, peering up, almost distractedly. "Hmm? Oh! I'm sorry. My eyes were on this Garand, here." He gestures to the semi-automatic rifle. "Lovely condition; about the only way you can get one for a good price now is ones that have seen much better days." He's noted, before turning to the Sherman. "This, though, can't own this. Get's a bad reputation, undeservedly so; well built, designed for a purpose, and, at the end of the day, won the war. Oh, maybe a few Pershing's helped, but this here," He says, gesturing to the tank, "I'd put it up aganist that Panzer any day of the week... maybe two of them, but that's a bit of the point, as well."

He's looking up briefly to Damian's speech, smiling good naturedly at the break in his voice. "Well, isn't that wonderful. Honestly, I do prefer people with money actually seeking to help out for once. Money where the mouth is, and all that." He says, before extending a hand. "Richard Stadler."

Natasha's approached is noted, a searching gaze directed to her, before nodding slightly. It didn't look like they were about to get shot at. "Ms. Romanov."

Kate Kane has posed:
Kate applauds with the rest, and then goes back to looking over the various exhibits with interest, smiling a bit as she meanders through the party. She flashes Diana a quick smile, and gives Lucy a curious look, before she winds up near Damian. She grins cheerfully at him, "Good turnout, nephew." She gives him a nod of approval, noting some of the other people present.

Doreen Green has posed:
"So, what first? The buffet? The exhibits? Any pref--" Doreen's conversion with her companion is cut off by the announcement of a speech by the host. "-orrrr I guess that!" She makes her way towards the stage, but stays towards the back of the gathering so her tail doesn't obstruct anyone else's view.

Oddly something about Damian seems out of place. He doesn't look as comfortable as when she met him in the park, feeding the squirrels. Could be he just gets on better with animals than he does people? Or it's just a touch of nerves. Probably mostly that. He's young and not as use to this as his father would be most likely. In the end it's just idle musing on her part.

Doreen applauds as everyone else does at the end, as does Monkey Joe with his forepaws. It might look like he's just mimicing Doreen, but maybe he understands this more than one might expect. He's a bit smarter than the average squirrel after all.

Yaretzi Acama has posed:
Yaretzi turns to face the stage, the distraction helping her to calm down from her fan-girling. She can't help but notice the slight falter in the host's voice... and smiles to herself. "What do you know... he actually -is- human, after all!", she says aloud, though in that quiet voice of someone speaking to themselves.

With one last glance at -the shield-, she starts off through the place in the direction of the stage, hoping to catch the host as he comes free of his duty to 'kick the pig', as it were. She's so intent on this, too, that she doesn't even really pay any attention to who else she might be walking near to as she makes her way past.

Sunny Harlow has posed:
Plenty of glamourous, strapping and otherwise gorgeous people around, not to mention a few that were overtly famous, there was lots to draw the eyes for Sunny as they moved through the party together. Attention drawn upwards towards the dancer's stage and the younger Wayne hosting the event, there's a little fond hip-bump against her pink-haired partner as introduction is made before the night kicks off and she looks to Bunny.

"So, where do we start first?" she questions lightly, grinning happily.

Of course, she'd be lying if she said the sight of more recogniseable faces like Captain America who was literally standing in the same room as his shield, or Diana whom she'd encounted alongside the JLA...but she'd make the meet and greet when they were ready, it was going to be a busy night!

Clara Jennings has posed:
    Clara's hunt for a dance partner is not one that is to be satisfied easily. It is more complicated as she tries to avoid the most crowded of areas for speaking to people. Which means she must hunt for a partner in another spot. She settles on the tanks, after the space around the shield gets, well, a bit too exciting for her.

    Before she gets far, Damian's speech draws her attention. She listens closely, head nodding reflexively when he mentions the Greatest Generation. They were the generation that drove back one of the deepest and darkest evils to ever capture the mind of misguided men. Her applauding is more than just polite. The Nazis attempted to erase broad swaths of humanity and in a way history itself.

    And now? it is time to celebrate once again the victory of human decency over very human evils by expressing some joy. She finds herself walking past Natasha and Lucy and heading towards the pair of Steve and James.
    Seeing that James is already in conversation, she turns her attention to Steve, walking right up to him and then realizing, quite suddenly, who he is. Walking up to Captain Rogers is... not something she was prepared for.

    "Good evening," is about all she can get out, feeling a bit breathless.

Cassie Sandsmark has posed:
Diana's chiding earns a wry look in return from her sidekick, who is still busy admiring the various military hardware and artifacts on display. Cassie is already working on her 'required' social media content, of course: Out comes the phone, and one by one, she strikes poses in front of some of the variety of hardware and objects. "Think they'd let me lay on the tank?" No, Cassie, no.

Still, she has to concede to some of what Diana is saying! "It does seem fun. They had some really great style back then. Like, even the uniforms were cute!" This may be a little bit of self-promotion. "And I really do love your dress. The dots! Haha, so quirky."

The volume turns down and she stops with the selfies when Damian comes up to give his speech, though, and joins in her mentor to applaud at the end. Annnnnd, as far as the donations go, she points out: "The Arts Center is making one, my mom gave me the check. And YOU can give yours. I got sponsor money to burn!" 'Burn' might be an exaggeration, but still, all her WonderBrand social media blitzing does attract a number of advertisers!

Off she goes, to drop off the money!

Bunny Macleod has posed:
    "Thanks, Sunny." Bunny states with genuine appreciation in her voice, keeping her arm looped with the taller lady as they walk, her footfalls trip-trotting a couple times to each one of Sunny's.

    "It's kind of amazing to think about. This was almost a hundred years ago, this fight." she reflects quietly. "And there's still people trying to round others up and stick 'em in places to forget about them. Religion, genetics, heck even skin color *still*." she looks up to Sunny, her shoulders slacking a little bit, and then she grouses "The ever-present enemy of Justice is Hatred, I guess. And man, who has time for *that* in this economy?"

    The bouncy little blonde-turned-pink-haired girl takes a look around.

    "Okay, okay, be cool, that's Wonder-Woman. And that's Captain America -- he's cool. *THAT* is Bucky. He came to check on us after everything. That's Damian Wayne up at the front -- he's okay, if you like rich people. An' Kate Kane, philantropist." she murmurs as she gives a small huff... "Let's go say hi to Bucky. We know him."

    And then she goes up to her tip toes, lifts a white gloved hand and gives a Taxi-halting whistle towards the shadow following Steve.

    "UNCLE BUCKY!" :D :D :D

Damian Wayne has posed:
And now that he's done his part, the introduction, the speech, Damian is checking off little boxes in his head. When the applause begins, he vacates his spot on the stage, allowing the Victory Belles to step back up. The music begins anew, and the girls start to serenade the crowd, and dancing is once again encouraged.

As he slips off stage, he catches sight of some others and he makes his way first over to Doreen, coming up to stand beside her. "Hey, didn't think you were going to make it." he offers in a friendly tone. "I'm glad you... hi Monkey Joe!" the young man brightens considerably, reaching out to give the squirrel a little affectionate pat in greetings and glances towards the floor. "Looks like noone wants to break the ice." he comments before his attention turns to Kate and he smiles. "Hello, Aunt Kate." he offers, giving her a brief hug. "Kate, may I present Squirrel Girl. Squirrel Girl, this is Kate Kane, a family relative." A glance up to Kate. "I'm going to see if I can get some boots on the floor." he offers encouragingly and looks to Doreen.

What's the saying? Oh, right. "Want to cut a rug?"

Summer Gleeson has posed:
Summer has procured a drink and seems to be keeping mostly to herself while she keeps plugging away with notes on her phone. Taking voice notes every so often also helps. She gives a smile to those that pass and are having fun out on the dance floor. She finally manages to find her assistant that had came with her. She'd been off oogling one of the guys in uniform. Well. You can't blame her!

James Barnes has posed:
    The silence that follows what Steve says is a contemplative one, rather than... well, Bucky's usual stoicism. He shifts his left arm, adjusting the way it tucks against his side, and his lips press together. "At the end of the day it's just an empty shell," he says. "Not much danger without people inside trying to blow you up."

    There's probably something that he's trying to say there, though he's not mincing words. Not his style any more. During the pause prompted by Damian Wayne's brief welcoming speech, Bucky advances so that he's actually standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Steve, rather than hanging out in the nearby shadows. So he's remarkably easy to find, and when Kenesha approaches his head swivels to look at her. Actual eye contact is minimal, though.

    Which is also not his style any more.

    "You'd be surprised how easy it is to run into someone you know in a city of more than 8 million," is his reply. His head tips to one side, slightly. "The band does take me back." This is accompanied by a glance towards where the musical performance of the night is, one presumes, picking things back up after the speech. "You two should dance. Old time's sake and all that." Because he sure as hell isn't getting out there! No, he's more than happy to brood in a corner somewhere.

    At least until someone calls out his name with the incomprehensible prefix of "uncle" and his gaze lifts upwards with the most pitiable sort of "Why me?" expression on his face. It's pretty emotive for modern Bucky standards, all told. But then he turns, looking past Clara's approach on Steve's other side towards where the whistle and following call came from. He lifts his free hand and, obligingly, waves back.

Lucy Blaze has posed:
The emcee replacing the Victory Belles commands Lucy's cool attention as he makes his announcements. Damian falls under the twilit amber of her gaze along with many others in that audience. He gets a bit more consideration by reaching the end of the philanthropic spiel. Smattered applause pops in a wave around her but she doesn't join in. Snobby, foreign or distracted.

The redhead sidling up is a distraction. Her face turns slightly, a bare hint of eye contact at first. "Everyone seems frozen at the peak of beauty. I have not decided if it's something in the water or a league of master surgeons," she replies lowly. An approving look dips at Clara's hairstyle - very elegant that. "Not interested in the limelight?" This must be a joke. Her silvery curls slip across her shoulder, carelessly shrugged away.

She nods at Richard. "You are well-acquainted with the technology of the time? Few are, Mr. Stadler. Lucy Blaze." The hand is taken; her own, callused, firm, certain. "I may recognize a few luminaries. It is a good day when veterans return in peacetime." A casual statement given while she marks the whereabouts of many people -- Diana, Steve, Damian again and his aunt Kate, Uncle Bucky.

Diana Prince has posed:
When Diana had caught eyes with Kate Kane, she'd smiled her way, and mouthed 'Nice dress' over the distance between them. She'd then turned toward the military equipment that Cassie had been referring to, and the questions and comments cause her to lightly laugh. "Perhaps when things have died down some." She quietly replies before she sips from her drink again. "I am sorry your mother was unable to make it. this feels like one of the events she would have really enjoyed." While the compliment to her dress has her glancing down at it. She smiles again then, placing her free hand upon her own stomach, rubbing the fabric of her attire with a gentle stroke of fingertips. "I rather prefer this era of clothing... You could say I even miss it, though when I talk like that, it only earns me jokes at the expense of my age..." She quietly says, a smirk chasing her words.

When Cassie rushes off to make the donation, Diana puts her eyes upon the military equipment again, her warm expression fading in to more of a calm expression, as her mind drifts back to memories, as fresh as those made today.

Natasha Romanoff has posed:
Natasha Romanova would fold her hands together and give a nod at Lucy. Not speaking particularly more. But, wary and respectful of her. Which for those that were picking up her cues was probably enough of an alert of itself. She goes to turn her attention over to the others approaching, then back to Lucy.

"That can be a good thing and a bad thing. Preserved.. But also stasis. But that is less of a matter with the body than it is the mind." A separate philosophy for another time. What was a few decades comparison to one that had twenty or so millenia at it? Nothing particularly comparable then. "Doctor Stadler, good to see you. I hope you find here insightful."

At the mentio of 'veterans' there would be a low smile for just a moment befor egoing neutral. "And those that never lasted long enough to get to this."

Sunny Harlow has posed:
"It is amazing," Sunny muses softly, nodding her head at Bunny's comments on the repeating negatives of history and hatred, though she does give a little bite of her lip in thought. "BUT...what's better? The fact that there's always people around to stand up and make sure that those people get punched in the face for it...and there's generations of 'Face punchers' literally right here in this room."

There -was- Bucky! The familier face who'd come to check in on the Young Avengers previously gets a lifted arm and a wave from the taller of the pair, but Bunny's whistle was probably -way- more noticable by comparison.

No Uncle from her, but a wave all the same as she's towed along by the tiny 'Bunnicane'.

Kate Kane has posed:
Kate blinks over at Diana, then gives her a warm smile and a nod, twirling slightly for the Amazon's benefit as she doesn't go directly over towards her. Instead, she seems to be making her way towards Steve Rogers. When she's close enough, she gives him a warm smile, "Captain. It's a pleasure to meet you. Kate Kane." She extends a hand, "You weren't the only reason I decided to enlist in the Army, but you were a big inspiration for me." A pause, then she chuckles, "I'm sorry, but I always wanted to say that. My father would be besides himself right now."

Her eyes do a quick flicker around the crowd, noting the positions of several notable people herself, before she looks back to Steve. "Anyway, I just wanted to convey thanks for... well, everything."

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers's nod in response to Bucky's take on the Panzer is a nod that starts very slowly, but gains a little momentum as if to concede the correctness of Bucky's statement. "Well, still glad we don't have one parked in the front yard," he says with a quick grin towards his friend.

Steve notes the Young Avengers present, that loud "Uncle Bucky!" catching his attention. When the man's blue eyes meet those of Bunny, he gives a friendly nod her direction across the crowded, themed gala.

He turns back as a pair of women approach from different directions. Kenesha gets his first response as his recognition of the woman from long ago catches Steve's attention first. "Kenesha," he says warmly. "You look like the day I met you," he offers. "Wonderful to see you again."

Clara isn't ignored as she approaches and offers a greeting. Steve turning towards her. "Good evening. Wonderful party isn't it? Though I don't know if the music might quite be your genre," he says to Clara.

A waiter comes by with a tray, though Steve gives a gracious shake of his head to them, not wanting a drink right now. The man distributes beverages to others who might want them, and then as he moves on, Kate Kane is coming over. Steve Rogers shakes her hand when offered. "Really? Well, I hope that a soldier's life was good to you. It means a lot to know that anyone else was inspired towards service, Kate, so thank you."

America Chavez has posed:
America Chavez listens to the speech and watches as everyone starts to meander off to greet those they knew whether in person or from their obvious fame. She lingers a bit. Long enough to get a look at the snacks set up at least. Then without a hint of hesitation or nervousness she heads for good ole Captain America.

"Hey Cap," she greets simply with an upnod toward him. There were plenty of others around vying for his attention, she didn't want to get too much in the way. Just a greeting for the OG.

Doreen Green has posed:
Doreen Green fakes a shocked expression. "You think I would no-show after being given tickets by the host personally?" she teases, then laughs. "Though this is pretty cool. I'll have to get some pics of the exhibits and such." She smiles as Damian even can identify which squirrel it is accompanying her, while Monkey Joe leans into the pats. Then there's introductions, and she does a short polite courtsey that would be more appropriate the era of the setting. "A pleasue, madam." Monkey Joe takes off his toy helmet and bows with it.

Then her attention turns back to Damian as he asks her to dance. "Sure thing! It'll help get people interested in starting I bet." She's full of ethusiasm and optimism as usual.

Richard Stadler has posed:
     "Somewhat, Ms. Blaze." He says, giving her firm grip a quick pump before disengaging (the rituals of greeting others!). "Granted you could probably say a lot of older men like to consider themselves experts on the technology of the time; the Second World War has been saturated with pop scholarship, after all, and I'm sure there's a couple dozen people here who could have prattled that off. Still, it can be fun to preen a bit."

He turns to look over the crowd at the mention of luminaries. "Oh, anyone whose anyone. And it's rather humbling to know quite a few people here may have fought with this rifle, or ducked behind this Sherman. People who made history... 'veterans' seems a bit too weak of a word, sometimes."

And to Natasha, he nods. "oh, I am, I am. To be honest, I'd enjoy myself here on a normal Thursday, but you know how it is; you can count the blocks between you and this place, but never find the time to go."

Cassie Sandsmark has posed:
"Well you are suuuuuuuuuper old," Cassie calls back toward Diana, as she makes her way to her next objective. Snarky as usual!

After dropping off the money and looping back, Cassie spends a few more minutes around the displays and artifacts. They really do have a lot to show. And her own interest isn't all just selfies (even if... a lot of it is). She definitely seems curious of the old-fashioned shield, and the faux mytho-magical spear. Amazons having a fascination with arms and armor of yore? Whodda thunkit? She stands there, tilting her head in apparent deep thought, almost as if considering the possibilities of the weapon. Who knows when a fight is gonna break out at a party (in comic land, the odds have to be at least fifty fifty).

And then, once she done with all the photos... it's time for a drink! Easier with the extra hand.

Bunny Macleod has posed:
    That was *precisely* the reaction Bunny was looking for when she called out, the flat expression where one could envision a brief stormcloud over their head, and she slides past Clara, Cassie and makes her way over to Bucky, trying to pull Sunny along with her.

    "Hey! It's good to see you out and about! You remember Sunny, my girlfriend?" she introduces Sunny again, just in case, and the pink-dress-wearing Bunnicane is practically hopping in her shoes as she talks.

    "Sorry for the really loud whistle" bounce up "I forgot that maybe you were sorta trying to keep a low profile" back down "And I wanted to make sure that you knew that we saw you" bounce up "because out of all the grown-ups who work with us you were the one to come visit us" back down "with the exception of this one guyw ho works maybe with SHIELD" bounce up "but he was really cranky and didn't want to talk to me about anything because of what happened" back down "but this isn't really about me but I wanted to say thank you" bounce up "for checking in on everyone and generally being the good guy because not even my dad wanted to check in" bounce down "which is kind of a bummer because my brothers kinda would have loved to come and see the stuff here and meet you" bounce up "But I'm glad that you're getting out and about because it's healthy to get fresh air and even encounter other people, not that I'm presuming to tell you what to do" back down, and then her voice gets softer and higher pitched as she runs out of air "But also I wanted to say thank you also for the service and continued advice and you're kinda the person I know best here other than Sunny and--" she pauses, her lips move, and she appears to realize she's out of air, and she gives a gasping breath in, and then bounces on her feet again out of nervousness.

    "SO YES THANK YOU BUCKY." she squeaks out, and turns red, right to her ears in embarrassment. "I'm sorry I'm such a pain."

Caleb Dykstra has posed:
Caleb is hesitant at first, but he decides to approach Cap. "Excuse me, Captain Rogers? We met before at a beach, to find that nice fellow, Abe...?" He pulls out a picture, "I was wondering if by any chance you would know something about this young man, here in this old picture I found when going through the family album."

It's a picture of a platoon along with the Howling Commandos, and the person he's pointing is almost like the spitting version of Caleb.

Damian Wayne has posed:
With Doreen's permission granted, Damian offers a polite smile to Kate, and then is leading Doreen out onto the dance floor. While Damian may not have lived in the era, he did take the time to pull up some YouTube videoes and mimic their motions as he watched them.

He's a fast learner.

So it's a bright, vibrant swing that he leads Doreen into, moving around the floor as the pair of them try to work the crowd up to join them. The Victory Belles, catching onto the change in the dance, switch over to the 'Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy of Company B', belting it out like champs as the young pair take the lead. "Maybe I should have offered a dance competition." he offers to Doreen with a smirk as he moves around the floor with her.

Clara Jennings has posed:
Clara finds herself drawn to Kate as she approaches Steve. Even though she has seen her before, it is one thing to be across the room at a party, quite another to be close. She finds herself looking up. Her flats do nothing at all to balance the height difference. She does her best to not get completely intimidated.

    "Good evening, Ms. Kane."

    Of course, Clara finds herself suddenly in the heart of a growing cluster of attention, all focused on Steve. Still, running away is not exactly an option, either. It would be rude. And a lady does not run away when things get difficult.

    Returning her attention to Captain Rogers and trying to not focus on the gathering crowd, she replies. "Actually, I prefer this kind of music, and these kinds of dances. That is what I had meant to ask. I mean, I can see you are very busy right now, but if you would care to dance, please find me. I will not wander far."

    But she will wander. Too many people. She will head back towards Natasha.

Kenesha has posed:
Smiling towards Steve, she gives a small nod, "Yeah, curse of the genes. I will always look exactly as I do now." Yep, such a curse! She lifts a shrug, "At least it makes me easy to spot at these things." Tucking her hands behind her back and rocking back on her heels.

Bucky's suggestion gets a small snort of laughter, "If I remember correctly, Buchanan, you were the dancer back then. But I think I'll stick to just standing around and looking entirely too young for my uniform." Not that she doesn't dance, but she's aware that they likely don't.

Glancing sidelong, she offers a sedate nod of greeting towards Lucy, offering, "I don't think I've ever seen you in a dress before. It suits you, though." Pleasantly offered, though Kenesha seems to be keeping a bit of formality there.

Natasha gets a nod of greeting as well, "Agent. Always a pleasure to see you."

Doreen Green has posed:
Doreen Green is honestly kind of faking it. She's just naturally light on her feet, because squirrel agility and all that. So she's mimicing Damian's lead for the most part. But certainly having fun in doing so. "Joe, tail please?" Monkey Joe salutes, and grabs the tip of Doreen's tail to pull it over her shoulder where he's standing. To keep it from swaying around and knocking over anyone that does decide to join the two in dancing. "Aaah people just need a little time to warm up, that's all," she reassures Damian.

Kate Kane has posed:
Kate gives Steve a bit of a pained expression at the mention of her service. "Well, it wasn't for long. My... ah, preferences came out, and I could have either lied about them, or gotten expelled from West Point." She shrugs, and gives a bit of a smile, "I chose the latter." She gives Clara a smile, "Well, hello there. And Captain, if you'll excuse me... I might need to take care of those preferences." She suddenly grins a bit wider, then slips away with a nod towards Clara and Steve...

And Kate's steps take her right up towards Diana, as she gives the Amazon a smile, "Good evening, Diana. Your dress is truly magnificent." Her eyes twinkle a bit, and she hasn't even sampled the champagne yet.

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers turns towards America Chavez as she comes over to the slowly growing group of people beside the German tank. "America," Steve greets her back. "Glad to see that you and a few of your friends made it tonight. Great cause. Nice of you all to come," he says, as if hoping she'll pass his words to any of the Young Avengers he might not have a chance to come across face to face before the night is all over.

Hearing Caleb trying to get his attention, Steve turns towards the young Gothamite. "Oh yes," Steve says, nodding in recognition as Caleb helps him recall where they met. "Very nice to see you again. Nice of you to attend the event," he tells Caleb.

As the picture is offered, Steve takes it and looks at it more closely. "Hey Buck," he says to get Bucky's attention for him to look at the picture as well.

"Dum Dum Dugan. Gable Jones," Steve says, naming two of the Howling Commandos in the picture, as well as himself and Bucky. Steve looks pensive for a few moments, leaning closer to the photo to try to make out the unit on the sleeves of the men with the one Caleb is pointing at. "101st Airborne. I'm guessing this was probably taken in Holland?" he says, looking to Caleb, and to Bucky so he can help confirm Cap's memory.

Natasha Romanoff has posed:
Natasha Romanova would turn her attention over to Kenesha and incline her head, "Thank you." She's here in a rather subtle fashion - talking over, wearing nothing to stand out more than a civilian. And then her attention drifts over to Clara. The way the girl moves over towards them. Hmm.. She's moving a bit too constrictedly. Watching the corners a bit much. Putting on a show of one that's just acting like they're normal here, but has just been trained to act that way.

"Greetings, I don't think we've met." If the other girl is an operative, it's not one that Natasha recognizes.. But she knows enough how to pop someone out of a script. Do something that goes against the routine. See how well they respond to the unexpected. If they're too choreographed, it's a giveaway.

Lucy Blaze has posed:
"Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme chose," Lucy replies. Her French is very precise, the inflection a bit older than what standard Parisian dialects speak as. "Someone expanding their mind to new horizons is every bit as important as maintaining peak health. You have admirers, I see."

She gives a short, brief smile wiped out before the incriminating evidence ends up on a social media feed somewhere. Her chin comes up, facing the world head-on again. "The important part, Mr. Stadler, is not losing the know-how or technical appreciation. Forgetting or discarding an achievement as obsolete is a collective loss. How good to see someone has taken steps against that. They're a fair sight prettier than those cybertrucks being passed off as good by snake oil salesmen."

She isn't approaching Steve or Bucky yet. Patience bears out, when Kenesha approaches among others. "You wear that very well," she gives in return. "I own at least two somewhere. Time to try something old, something new." As for borrowed and blue? Stop looking at her!

Sunny Harlow has posed:
Sunny was pretty new to the 'Young Avengers' herself, so it was fairly obvious she'd never met Captain America in person before...at least, the moment of staring probably suggested it. Bucky however gets her attention once more as she re-introduces her to the man and gives a little grin and fingerwave. "Hi again, nice to see you when I'm not wearing christmas sweaters and stuff," she offers before Bunny begins to gush in that oh-so-Bunny way and Sunny just beams, leaning in to her side as the other girl makes the most of her lungfull of air.

"You're awesome," she simply offers Bunny in reassurance before looking back to Bucky and nodding her head. "But as she said, thank you for your service. It's really great that you're here!"

Diana Prince has posed:
Diana had stepped away from the various displays when she saw Kate's approach. Pausing there, she smiles at the other when she arrives, and shows a light smile in return. "Thank you, Miss Kane. It has been awhile." With a quick look to her right, diana regards the Gothamite once more. "How have things been for you?" She asks in her thick Themysciran accented english. "Did Damian put all of this together on his own?" She asks then, showing off a slight grin before sipping from her drink again.

The Princess hears her name spoken, and it draws her eyes. With a soft smile for the passing guest, Diana waves lightly toward them, before she regards Kate once again. "Bruce was unable to make it?" She asks.

America Chavez has posed:
America Chavez flashes a grin in return to Steve's greeting. "Course. I'll make sure the Young Avengers know you send your regards," she assures easily only to glance over toward the super bounce Bunny next to her very Sunny date. "If some of the more outgoing members don't mention it first at least," she points out with a chuckle of amusement. At least everyone was having a good time it seemed.

"I don't envy how popular you are at these things though." The crowd gathered begging information, such as from Caleb, or simply exchanging pleasantries are all looked at. A half-step to the side is taken so she doesn't end up getting further in anyone's way. "Kind of like the anonymity myself. Let me know if you need a distraction to head out though."

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve lets out a quiet chuckle to Kenesha. "I imagine a few people could wish they had such a curse," he teases. "And without having to go in the deep freeze to accomplish it," he adds with another soft laugh.

Clara gets the attention of Steve Rogers next, the taller man turning towards her. "I prefer it too. Though there's some very good music I've heard since. Dire Straights. Crosby, Stills and Nash. 4 Non Blondes. Though I'm just as likely to put on some Louis Armstrong or Benny Goodman," he admits. He smiles to Clara as she asks if he'll dance with her. "Certainly, I'd love to. Let me greet a few people and then I'll come find you if that's ok?"

As Clara moves off, Steve turns towards Kate Kane as she adds those bits about her experiences with the US Army. His expression takes on some disappointment, though it's quickly clear enough where that disappointment is focused. "Well, I can't say the Army always makes the right choice. But I'm sorry that you suffered for this particular one. And it was Army Corps' loss from everything I've seen of you, Kate." He gives her a nod seeming meant to emphasize his point and then when she mentions needing to go talk to others he gives her another nod. "Alright, will catch up with you later."

Kate Kane has posed:
Kate ahs, "Well, lately we've been alternating these things, and he had some business in Gotham to attend to. But yes, Damian did the planning here himself. Bruce deemed it important to let him do it on his own." She grins, "And well, I think he did a splendid job. Hard to think just a few years ago I was giving him an authentic xiphos to add to his collection."

She looks at Diana, "And things have been going rather well, all things considered. Though it's been far too long since we had a chance to talk." With that, she extends her hand towards Diana, "Care for a dance? It'd be a nice way to catch up."

Clara Jennings has posed:
    Clara is actually just trying to determine where she can stand that is close but not too close. After all, she does not want it to be hard for Captain Rogers to find her. Still, she also is focusing her mind on the biggest problem she always has: what to do with her hands. She wishes she brought gloves.

    Then someone speaks to her. Natasha's greeting was not expected. Clara is startled by it. "Oh, um, hello. I am Clara, Clara Jennings." She has to think a moment, but ends up gliding into a curtsey. A pause as she attempts to get a bit more on track.

    "I am pretty certain we have not met. I have a pretty good mind for names and faces, and yours would be hard for anyone to forget."

    Oh wow. That sounded like a line. A really bad line. Clara's makeup helps hide the flustered blush.

Richard Stadler has posed:
     Stadler cocks his head a bit at the rather sibilant words from the woman. "French... that does sound rather well pronounced to my uncultured ear. Spend some time in the country, I might guess?" He notes, before nodding briefly. "And oh, I tend to agree. It's a reason we're always building a carrier, a reason why we just keep churning out Abrams out of the plant in Ohio. Exceedingly important to ensure that we don't lose that capability."

He frowns. "There's something to be said for stagnation. The Garand, for instance. Excellent weapon, good design, but the fundamentals of a semi-automatic rifle haven't changed much. Oh, sure, a large amount of incremental improvements, doctrinal changes, but, I feel, few true breakthroughs."

Damian Wayne has posed:
Damian shakes his head, there's a mote of amusement in his tone. "When it comes between dancing and meeting a real life hero...? I can't blame them." he admits quietly as he swings Doreen around, making sure to carefully avoid the tail that Monkey Joe is so carefully making sure noone collides with. "I'd be starstruck too." he admits as he glances towards the trio.

"But, someone needs to keep the party going. And I drew the short straw. So." A brief little smile as Boogie Woogie fades and starts to change to another song, and Damian slows and offers a tip of a bow to Doreen. "Thanks for coming. I appreciate all you did. I hope we cross paths again."

And with that, he's moving to join into the queue to greet the three himself, starting with Diana, because that's where Kate is, and Diana knows who he is. But America is there as well, and his nose wrinkles as he tries to place her. Oh right, the teen party at the Hellfire Club! "Ms. Chavez." he greets her. "Damian Wayne. It's been a while, we met at a party a couple of years ago?"

And six inches, on his part.

James Barnes has posed:
    Given Bucky's general reticence for being social, one might think he'd be getting overwhelmed with all the attention. Mostly on Steve, of course, which is as it should be (and perfectly alright with Bucky, if anybody asks) but as it turns out there are people who do actually know him here. And he seems to be handling it just fine, if one takes the faint grumpy scowl is his neutral state.

    Which, it is. Just FYI.

    He's still tuning into the conversation surrounding (slash-centering on) Steve, but with Bunny and Sunny fast approaching, he shifts towards the two young ladies. "I'm too old for any of that," is all he says to Kenesha regarding his dancing days, which do seem to be far behind him now.

    Annnnnd here's Bunny. Bucky's even-tempered inhales and exhales are a sharp contrast to her complete lack of breathing, which given the amount of words she gets out is pretty impressive. When she finally runs out, there's a pause.

    "...You're welcome," is said to Bunny and Sunny both. He nods once at the pair, giving a quick side-eye to their tailing friend America behind them, and then Steve is trying to catch his attention, so Bucky's head swivels. Given his keen eye, he doesn't even have to do more than briefly lean in to study the photo. Though rather abruptly he does rock back on his heels and tuck his left arm against his side tightly. "Memory's pretty spotty, but looks like one of the tech guys? Conner? Conrad?" He stops offering up name guesses for a few seconds, only to come out with a follow-up of "Cole?"

    And then his left shoulder jumps up, and he clears his throat. "Excuse me."

    Cue immediate exit stage... whatever direction is towards the buffet.

Summer Gleeson has posed:
Annette gives Summer a 'how could I resist?' look when she makes her way back to her bosses side. "I'm not judging." Summer tells the woman as she gives a laugh. "Just if you leave with anyone let me know so I can make sure you aren't murdered and returned tomorrow." she tells her. "I don't want to look for another assistant and I doubt you want to be murdered." she points out.

Natasha Romanoff has posed:
She's definitely broken the girl's focus. She's clearly agitated and off her script. IF she had handlers they'd not have sent her here in the first place if she's this sloppy. But she's also not here of her own initiative or she'd be beelining towards her target. So her wandering around means that she's off the reservation.

Natasha Romanova quickly evaluates the girl as too out of her element to be an immediate threat, makes a mental note to tag her in the security systems later for followup identification and analysis if need be to dispatch an intelligence gathering team after her. "IF you want to speak to anyone, just approach. It's all right, he doesn't bite. No matter what the propaganda films might say in the matter." She would speak casually to Clara and turn her attention tot he talk of Lucy and Richard. A nod of agreement and affirmation. "But don't get too caught up in things. Ways change. Technology changes. And tactics. Just as something works doesn't mean that there aren't better ways. Look at how things changed from the first world war to the second. And the first world war to the Franco-Prussian War before it." Because being too wedded to the ways of the lsat conflict made one blind to the realities of the coming ones.

Diana Prince has posed:
The offered hand garners a soft smile from Diana, who nods softly toward Kate. She accepts it, but before leading toward the dance floor, Diana smiles toward Damian. "Yu have done well with all of this. I am very impressed." She states toward him, offering America a light wave of her opposite hand. She turns back toward Kate then, once on the dance floor, she steps up to move with the mood of the music being played in the now.

"I am glad things seem to be going well, for you and yours. I try not to poke my nose in to Gotham affairs that closely. I do not wish to ruffle feathers. But... I am always here, should any help be needed."

Bunny Macleod has posed:
    "... I think he hates me." Bunny states quietly, and then she rubs the back of her head, looking at the retreating America, to Kenesha, and then she takes a deep breath, retreating a little bit back to Sunny as she purses her lips, and re-loops her arm with Sunny's. "I'd... ah.. I'd introduce you to Captain America, but I don't know him as well. He's not someone I typically work with." she explains to Sunny, her shoulders rising up as she gives a nod to the opposite sid eof the buffet that Bucky went to "Feeling hungry?" she asks, and in the process of turning around she almost steps on the back of America's shoes!

    "Oh my stars and garters miss I am so so sorry!" She squeaks out to the other Young Avenger.

Kenesha has posed:
Nodding to Natasha, she offers a faint smile before slowly turning to stare at Lucy. "You mean my actual uniform? You own two of my flight uniforms from the war? Really, mother, if you're going to be that flippant, don't bother." Letting out a huff of breath, she turns away to shift in closer to the others.

Kenesha turns to Steve and offers a faint, wry smile, "It has it's ups and downs..." She lifts a shrug, "But overall, you're probably right." She gives a small chuckle and glances sidelong towards Bucky.

The retort to her response has her snorting a small laugh and shaking her head before offering to Steve, "It was great to see you again, we should catch up sometime, talk about... well, anything but the war would be great." Then she tilts her head towards the buffet, "Think I'll go hide out by the food for a bit." Because she, at least, isn't a known hero that will be swarmed! MWAHAHA!

Slipping away, she pauses briefly by Damian to murmur, "And excellent job with the decorations and replicas. You have an amazing eye for detail." Then Kenesha is escaping the growing crowd to go hang out with the older veterans that.. actually look their age. She passes by Bucky in her quick stride, muttering something under her breath at him, then ducking off to say hello to a few other airmen from back int he day!

Caleb Dykstra has posed:
"Yeah, my great-grand...", Caleb's about to continue, when Bucky darts off, and he frowns.

Confused, he looks at Cap, "What just... What just happened?"

Kate Kane has posed:
Kate smiles at Diana, doing a vintage dance with her on the floor as she keeps her voice down. "It's appreciated, and yes, things are going mostly well... I'm also making sure to keep up ties with everyone else. Just in case things do get... messy." She looks at Diana and nods, "And your presence is always a comfort, Diana, and much appreciated."

She then gets a bit of a pained look, "And I apologize in advance for whatever nonsense the press makes of our dance. They can be about as tenacious as a pack of parademons." But still, dancing with Diana is something you just don't get to do every evening...

Sunny Harlow has posed:
"I doubt it," Sunny offers Bunny as her arm was reclaimed. "It'd be literally impossible after all." A nod to the inopportune nature of trying to meet the Captain himself, the snack table seems like an agreeable alternative for Sunny who nods and makes to follow only to give a little audible 'eek' at the quick-stop of nearly running over America, managing to stay balanced on her own heels if only just.

"Uh...hi?" she offers in akward addition to the apology, though her eyes are quick to just up at the sight of Kate and Diana dancing. Sure she only knew who one of them was, but both were entirely right that it was going to draw attention! Of course, more than just gossip, there was a glance to Bunny and a mental note not to exclude the dance floor from their activities.

Doreen Green has posed:
Doreen Green bows back to Damian as they complete their dance. "It was my pleasure, and I hope you have a wonderful night as well." Then like that he's off to tend to host duties most likely. Doreen neatly scoots off the main dance floor, and the departure of her (and the danger of the tail) seems to help convince some other people to take up the dancing.

"Thanks Joe, you can let go now." Squirrel releases her tail, letting it return to it's usual upright flick flick behind her as she begins wandering towards the exhibits.

Lucy Blaze has posed:
"Dresses." Correcting Kenesha comes as easily as breathing for the white-haired woman. "Last I knew one of your flight uniforms ended up in Mainz or a copy of it." The surgery must be excellent for Lucy to be Kenesha's parent of any kind. Offense is absent, her expression absolutely flat.

"I have been in France now and then." Lucy confirms the source of her accent, and she actually appears to follow along quite closely to the conversation about the Garand. "Fundamentally neither has a Boeing airplane after ten iterations, but there comes a point to evolve beyond modifications. Fly-by-wire technology within an impressive safety envelope or replacing metal ammunition with energy are two excellent examples of improvements outside the norm. But breakthroughs on par with microprocessors? Hard to achieve for good reasons." Richard threatens her with a conversational time and she'll take it.

And conversation of most kinds is satisfactory. Natasha tagging in Clara to the socializing provides a chance. "Hello. You captured the style perfectly." What passes for a compliment is meant well, but not saccharine at all. "Without Aquanet?"

Diana Prince has posed:
With their shared dance continuing, Diana is one to move with grace and ease of step. She keeps in-time with Kate's own movements as perfectly synchronized as any professional dancer might be able to. The words that she hears from the other, at first have her smiling, then laughing softly. Another glance is spared around them, before Diana returns her eyes to Kate's own.

"I hardly care what nearly anything is written in the media." She conveys with a sense of knowing all too well the kind of things that the media is one to spin these days. She shows a small smile then. "I am happy to be asked by someone who I do not feel has nefarious intentions. All too often, over the years, I have come to these such gatherings, and had approaches, and invitations, from some who might have less than reputable intention. You just breeze on past those, when such occurs, and reward the ones you believe in to be good and kind in heart." She says, giving one of Kate's hand a soft squeeze. "Glad you made it tonight, though. Everyone looks so nice. It really brings me back to a time where things were simpler, for lack of anything to say that is a little less cliche."

Damian Wayne has posed:
When both Diana and Kenesha congratulate him on his work, Damian offers a small smile. Still a little awkward with it all. "Thank you. Father wanted me to branch out with my social skills, so this seemed a sensible path to take." he offers the pair of women as they pass by.

But as he was talking to America, suddenly she's nearly trambled, and Damian has to take a step back himself. "Whoa. Hey. Everyone alright?" he asks, a nod of his head offered to Bunny and Sunny. "Evening." he greets with a smile. "I hope you are enjoying the festivities? Please, feel free to dance, it took quite a bit to make this happen, I'd be happy to see people enjoy it."

Cassie Sandsmark has posed:
There's a predictable rhythm to going to parties with Diana, and the mob scenes of people eager to meet her are a big part of it. No one ever mobs Cassie (unless it's an event for young girls), but that provides some advantages. For one? It's usually a lot easier to get a drink!

As it stands, she's gone off to do just that, finding not just a beverage (is punch all they have? is any of it spiked? this is investigated), but food as well, a plate with a good pile of sandwiches and mini hotdogs and whatever other suitably Americana-styled things might be on offer. It's a fair bit of food, even for her. Maybe she's bringing extra.

She walks back with the plate, monching as she goes, yet catches up with Diana only to find Kate leading her off to dance, overhearing just a bit at the passing end. "Yes, a very scandalous average Tuesday on Themyscira." This is sarcasm, fond communication mode of the snarky youth.

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers rests a hand on America's shoulder gently. "Good, please do," he agrees of her offer to pass the message on, before removing the hand. And then as America moves off to join Bunny and Sunny, and as if to prove Bunny wrong, Steve gives Bunny a wave and calls over, "Hello Bunny, nice to see you again."

A nod of Steve's head is given as Bucky recalls the moment immortalized in the picture. "Yes, Cole. That was it. Put that jeep engine back together when I thought it was a goner," Steve recalls of Caleb's relative. "It's great to see that your family has that," he says to Caleb of the picture. "Whatever happenoed to Cole?" He's used to people from those days not being around anymore, but still asks to find out how their lives went after the war.

His attention swivels back to Kenesha then, picking up the conversation with her where it left off. "I'd love to catch up. Stop by Avenger's Mansion anytime. If you have a motorcycle, and really I'm going to be surprised if you -don't-, we can take them out for a ride, so maybe pick a nice day," he tells her. "I'll make sure that JARVIS knows to let you through," he tells Kenesha.

As Bucky departs, and Caleb asks him about it, Steve Rogers tells Caleb, "Oh, just probably needed a bit of space. You'd hardly believe how he liked to be the center of the party when we were younger. Likes a bit of quiet and space now, though."

Pamela Isley has posed:
There is such a thing as showing up fashionably late. Some do it to make an entrance. But, depending on how late, it may be just to attract as little attention as possible. Still, considering the ensemble worn, attention might be drawn to the newcomer, like it or not, should anyone be paying attention.

A redhead....most definitely a redhead, wearing a green formal gown. Keeping in the spirit of the evening, the gown itself is keeping in the 40's style, a solid green velvet, v neck with a flared skirt and long sleeves. A wide brimmed hat, in the same deep emerald color, sits upon that carpet of red, placing the face beneath in shadow. Though, still, even in shadow, the features are striking. Green eyes. Lips the color of a rose. And, to match, a rose wrist corsage, sitting delicately upon the right wrist. A needed splash of contrast with all the green. The dress, the hat..and even possibly the hue of the skin, ever so subtle.

Pamela Isley has finally made an appearance.

It does seem like she is rather keen on not making a splash, ducking into the room with her head tilted down, using the advantage of her hat to discourage any casual looks. At least, for now.

America Chavez has posed:
America Chavez raises her eyebrows a bit back at that look that Bucky shoots her. How odd. She barely has time to think on it though when he turns to rush off, and she finds herself nearly run over by the short Bunny and her date.

Glancing to the pair she raises an eyebrow again with a bit of an amused grin. "Hola, chicas," she greets in turn only to step to the side finally extracting a hand from her jacket pocket to gesture for them to pass.

"I was just about to hit the buffet. Care to join me?"

"I've met the glitter-bomb on wheels before, but haven't met you yet," she adds toward Sunny. Riiight when there's another near collision as Damian makes his way over.

"I think we're probably in the path of traffic. Either that or--" Her eyes narrow with a little squint, and she tips a glance down at herself. "Hm. That or someone put a hex on me to cause crashes around me. ... Gonna have to punch that guy again," she mutters beneath her breath.

Looking back to Damian she nods a moment trying to recall, and then snapping her fingers as she does. "Ah, yeah. You grew. Congrats. Good to see you again."

Bunny Macleod has posed:
    "Oh! America!" Bunny squeaks out, and then flails a bit with her free arm "This is my girlfriend Sunny, Sunny this is Americ--AH! DAMIAN!" she flails again, and is really quite glad she didn't wear the skates tonight.

    "Damian, America. America? Sunny. Sunny? America. America, Damian. Bunny!" she holds a gloved hand up, looking around at the other young folks around.

    "... the buffet sounds GREAT!"

Kate Kane has posed:
Kate listens, growing a bit somber as she keeps dancing with Diana, "I can only imagine what's that like. I mean, for me this is just distant history... an inspiration for me to join the Army in the first place, like I told Cap, but..." She pauses, and looks over at Diana, "To actually be there, that's definitely something else. And I'm glad that you haven't gotten jaded with the weight of it all. It can't be easy."

At the squeeze of Diana's fingers on hers, Kate shifts her hand a little bit, looking to entwine her fingers with the Amazon's, if allowed, as she smiles, "And well, you definitely inspire a lot of us to be our best selves. And I'm glad you like the outfit."

Natasha Romanoff has posed:
And now Natasha waits to see how Clara reacts. Lucy's interest can only make matters worse as she joins her conversation with Clara. Natasha doesn't make a move to 'pin' the girl but Clara can't just disengage from the conversation now that two people are directly talking to her. Kenesha has disengaged (possibly because ewww mom) and leaves just the two of them and Richard. Now to see how well teh girl does with her persona completely upstaged. Two strangers talking to her, and having an interest in her out of nowhere makign conversation. Natasha waits to see if the girl will panic and flee or will have some sort of programming take in. The girl is sloppy enough that she can't be here on a mission unless she's considered disposable. As some of the others head towards the buffet, Natasha metaphorically circles.

Clara Jennings has posed:
    Clara nods to Natasha. "Oh, yes, of course. It was nice meeting you!" Flustered. But almost relieved until Lucy then broadens the damage with yet more conversation. Unexpected. Natasha will probably want to grab some popcorn.

    "Oh, um, thank you! My governess helped me with it, actually. She has a hobby of being very enthusiastic when it comes to the history of fashion. I fear I did not pay too much attention to what she was using, however. Sorry."

    She fidgets restlessly, looking from Natasha to Lucy. A moment later she realizes an escape is important. And the only thing that pops in her head is a familiar woman. Cassie. She knows Cassie. Well, no she does not. She has met Cassie.

    "I am sorry, I saw someone that I should say hello to! My apologies. If you will excuse me."

    So yes, fleeing is the move, for those keeping score near the buffet. Off to Cassie! Who.. hopefully will remember her from two seconds on New Years Eve.

Sunny Harlow has posed:
Sunny was doing her best to keep up with Bunny both figuratively and literally as she jumped from America to Damien and back, but she did offer the other woman a little lift of her hand. "Heya, Sunny and..." she begins only of turn that same wave Damien's way and then look back at America. "...and I think you might be right. Snacks and safely out of the road is a good call."

Summer Gleeson has posed:
Summer and Annette exchange some notes and then there is another drink gotten before Annette finds herself heading off with some Gotham playboty. Not THE Gotham playboy though! Summer takes a few more notes for herself and then goes to settle at a table where she can start making up a rough drafts in her documents of what to start the news story out with.

Damian Wayne has posed:
Damian takes a couple of steps back as Bunny flails, just to make sure he's out of the splash zone in case she goes... what was it that America said? Glitterbomb? He may assume that is her actual power. Please don't explode.

But as they are all talking the buffet, the young man glances over. And he's a detective beneath it all. And he just totally saw that white paw swipe at a piece of shrimp from Bucky's jacket. "I was going to catch Cassie for a dance, but first..."

He'll join the Young Avengers trio as he makes his way over to the buffet and as he passes by Bucky, he suggests quietly. "The shrimp might be a bit messy, there's some fresh sliced lox over there." he gestures, before continuing on his way to Cassie. "Hey, Cassie!" he grins. "How much am I going to have to fork over tonight just from you?"

Richard Stadler has posed:
     "It's a wonderful place. I was chaperoning a few students out that way just a bit ago. Normandy was certainly... humbling to see, but I do wish I had more time there. In any case, I would agree that there is an advancement beyond words, thanks to the information age, when it comes to aviation and certain weapon advancements, but most firearms remain that; firearms. Perhaps there's some experimental items in the various proving grounds, but they've been generally stubborn from change. The same ammunition used in some of these rifles can be used in modern variants. The microprocessor revolution has yet to significantly touch these weapons."

A flick of his wrist, and a grimace. "One thing to mention on tactics, of course, is that I feel they aren't so... ground breaking at the end of it. We consider the First World War ground breaking, but shades of it can be found in the American Civil War. Likewise, the breaking of the trench stalemate of 1918 can show what the Second World War would become, and I admit I'm open to being butchered at cross examination. My timing's a bit off though. I'm afraid I do have to step to get some lunch before catching the metro back."

He nods, to both Lucy and Natasha. "Excellent, meeting you both here. I'm sure, given the... events that I seem to get myself caught up in, we'll meet again."

Doreen Green has posed:
Doreen Green wanders into the exhibit area, and almost immeadiately stops so her and Monkey Joe can crane their heads back to look up at the DC-3 suspended overhead. "That's impressive." Promptly out comes her phone so she can snap a few pics of it. Then walks over to read the display plaque. "OH MY GOSH. This isn't a recreation, it's an actual plane used in an actual rescue, actually restored! So cool! Well, can't get way up there but we can at least take a pic with this." Doreen maneuvers with the phone in selfie mode to get a shot of herself and Monkey Joe with the plaque, while keeping it clear in view so others will be able to properly read it. It's a display plate for a plane so it goes well with her bomber pilot pin-up postergirl outfit.

Now that she's excited Doreen is quickly scampering over to the other smaller displays. "A spear.. a shield... a weird glowy block... So many pieces of history.." A few more pics. "Not my usual content but it's important people remember and respect these things!"

Diana Prince has posed:
Another light laugh comes from Diana, at Kate's words. She smiles lightly before shaking her head right to left once. "there is jadedness. But I keep it hidden very well." She teases lightly back to the other. She continues along with the dance up until the music reaching its end, and then she's coming to a pause. With a smile, she gives Kate's hand another light squeeze. "Thank you for the dance." She tells her. "I best keep up the mingling, however. As should you, we have to make sure the gala is a memorable one."

She'll offer a light embrace before she pulls away, spotting Cassie, she steps toward her protege, and sister, sidling up beside her, she peers at the assortment of food that the younger sister to Diana had gathered up. "I see even the dining is staying period-accurate." She says with a mischievous expression showing upon her features, as she reaches over to snag a bite of it.

Natasha Romanoff has posed:
Clara goes to disengage, and makes a beeline towards Cassandra. For Natasha, that means that she's probably not that much of a threat - if she was, Cassandra is trained well enough to notice and respond appropriately. Or Diana is paying attention to her protege. That just makes Clara someone to flag after this even as a low priority followup for intel to run a facial match pattern in case she's tied to anything.

Giving a nod to Richard as he would be departing. "Good evening. I hope you found your journey here educational." Her folding her arms then and seemingly being just left with Lucky. Her attention turning to indicate to the Kheran woman to take the lead if they were going to act as social hunter killers anywhere else in the night's festivities.

James Barnes has posed:
    It doesn't take long for Bucky to find an open spot at the buffet. It also doesn't take long for him to glower his way into being very much alone at said spot at the buffet, which just so happens to be where the shrimp cocktail is served. This will be relevant later. He's got a plate in hand when Kenesha passes by, he shifts his weight and watches as she departs. "No," he says after a moment, "I definitely don't."

    Then he returns to food. Well, the shrimp, specifically. And only shrimp. It's not like he can put the shrimp BACK once Damian points out the lox, so he's kind of committed at this point, isn't he? Besides, the meowing that now seems to be coming from the inside of his coat sounds pretty insistent. Either way, he slinks off into a corner with his plate of shrimp.

    The Young Avengers do get a quick look of acknowledgment as he passes them by on his way to said corner. Despite what Bunny may think, it's a perfectly ordinary sort of look made by someone who, in another lifetime, was basically never awkward in any social situation. Rather than someone who might feel at odds with bumping into someone at a party after you just excused yourself. Which people might think is the type of person Bucky is now, given his... everything else.

    "Hold on," he says to absolutely no one because he is definitely alone in that corner. And then he puts a shrimp in his coat, like he's slipping it into a breast pocket.

Lucy Blaze has posed:
After an appropriate degree of socializing, Lucy abruptly disengages. Richard is off on his way and Clara escaped from the crafted bear-trap of a Russian showing polite interest and conversation.

"I've exhausted my capacity for small talk. Time to find other pursuits to occupy the hours. Good night to you." Even that much is a stretch. She lightly turns on her heel and slips lightly out into the array of displays scattered about. Useful for hiding and watching.

Cassie Sandsmark has posed:
Cassie is still standing there with her sandwiches (and spam?), feasting away when first Clara appears. "Hey!" She does, in fact, remember a person she met a mere week and a half prior, even if it was a fairly brief introduction in a setting where people usually meet lots of people and immediately forget half of them. Maybe she has Wonder Memory, too.

"Uh... Clara right? Damian's friend. I don't know that we ever really got to exchange much more than hello. Fun party though. I always get a kick out of these kinda things where you can dress up." She's a Halloween fiend, no doubt. And, speaking of Damian, there may be some bit of predestination at play, as he joins them not long after.

"I'd be more worried about the Art Center," she fires back with a grin. "That's how Diana launders all her fabulous off-shore royalty money." Nothing about that statement is accurate, save perhaps the fact that the Themysciran Art Center may indeed have contributed a nice big check.

And speaking of ANOTHER devil, said royal sugar mama also appears shortly thereafter, possibly in time to overhear Cassie slandering her good name (OK, definitely in time, she has super hearing and would have caught it half way up the West Side). Perhaps as pre-emptive self defense, Cassie lifts the plate she's been hoarding up toward her as an offering. "Yeah, you want some spam? I got extra."

Caleb Dykstra has posed:
"Well, from what I'm told", Caleb says, "A few months later he got his ass shot - as in, literally shot there -, and he got hauled back to medical and brought back home." He chuckles, "Dad said he didn't want to leave, from what he told me, said that the job wasn't yet done... But that he was finally convinced that there was a job back home, where young men would have to carry on with the lifestyle." He holds back a shrug, "He married, and his kids married, and my dad married, and here I am today."

"Never met him, but my dad spoke highly of him. Said he was his inspiration into becoming a mechanic."

Looking back to Bucky, then back to Cap, he nods. "Okay. Fair enough." Not everyone has a good day, right?

Kate Kane has posed:
Kate smiles warmly at Diana, "Same, sadly..." She returns the squeeze of her hand to Diana, then hrms and goes off to mingle. Her steps are a bit lighter at that experience, though, as a dance with Diana is amazing by itself. Glancing around as she steps away from the dance floor, she notes Pamela's arrival but doesn't overtly react to it.

So, wandering through the party, getting a glass of 'champagne' from a passing waiter, she finds herself passing near Lucy. Noticing the woman making a departure, Kate finishes her drink and then slips out of the party. At least for the moment.

Pamela Isley has posed:
Currently free of any social entrapments, wanted or not, Pamela takes a moment to orient herself. Ah....banquet is in one direction. The dance floor in another. And...historical displays in a seemingly less populated section. So, it is towards the historical displays that Pam walks for. Though, it is not shield nor cube that catches her eye first. No, it is the spear replica that intrigues. Even biologists know what significance the Spear of Destiny has...and the stories behind it.

A glass of champagne is claimed as a server walks by, without even a second glance.

Kenesha has posed:
Kenesha puts a few goodies on a plate, also notably getting a piece of the cake wrapped up and tucked away. She takes her plate and grabs a pair of water bottles before sidling her way around towards where Bucky is absolutely totally alone. Passing him one of the water bottles, she murmurs, "Unopened." And continues on down a few feet. Settling in at a table with a few empty seats, she sets her plate down and looks around the room while she eats.

Sometimes it's nice just to enjoy people-watching while you eat!

America Chavez has posed:
America Chavez breathes a bit of a sigh of relief when they head for the buffet. Once they're there, she pauses to just stare a moment at all the goodies before snagging herself something sensible, like a hotdog in a blanket. Or whatever the fancy name for htem was.

"Got to admit I'm not great at crowds. Been looking for an excuse to wear this though," she reasons giving a little sway of her hips so that the red and white striped skirt sways. "Kind of got a theme to work with."

Grinning in amusement she watches as Bucky sneaks shrimp into his mewing jacket completely resisting the urge to snicker. "Never would have pegged him for it," she murmers. Then her attention shifts back to the couple. "So, how long you two been an item? I feel like I'm out of the gossip loop."

Clara Jennings has posed:
    "Yes, that is right," says Clara. Phew. Remembered. That she can handle. And not too many people. Until there are more people. Did Natasha put a tag on her or something? SHIELD is pretty darn sneaky, after all.

    "You look great. I mean, the outfit really suits you."

    Nobody has any idea how hard it is trying to be normal in a crowd. Except Natasha, if she is still watching for entertainment purposes. Thank goodness she is not scoring the performance.

    Clara looks downward. Yes. Damn hands. Still there. Still no idea what to do with them. It takes a moment, but she does resume the whole eye contact thing, first with Cassie, then with Damian. It is a fleeting thing, but it happens.

Steve Rogers has posed:
Cap nods his head a few times as Caleb shares the tale of his grandfather. "Well, from what I recall, he was someone that you could be proud of having for a grandfather," Steve tells Caleb. "And I'm glad to see that there's someone out there carrying on his name. He left you some shoes to fill, but seems to me from what I saw in October that you're on your way to doing so," Steve says, offering Caleb a handshake.

After that, with a few moments of lull in the conversation, Steve notices when Summer Gleeson takes a seat at the table nearby. He doesn't leave any of those who are still over talking to him, though does gesture to indulge the patience a moment as Steve takes a step that way to be able to lean down towards Summer on her side where she can turn her head to see him easily.

"Miss Gleeson?" he says to the reporter. "I just wanted to say, I appreciated the piece you did on that young hero in Trenton. It seemed like he was getting a bit of unfair treatment on social media and from a few other publications. It was nice to see his side of the story presented as you did. Thank you for that."

Diana Prince has posed:
While Diana indulges in a little treat from Cassie's plate, she offers her a grin at the banter before she looks away. Her eyes do catch sight of Pamela across the way, and they track after her. She knows that Pamela is a reformed Gotham notable, but still, she's surprised to see her here. Should Pam catch eyes with the Princess, she'll even smile to her, and offer a little finger-wiggle wave of greeting from across the space between them.

When Diana regards Cassie again, she notes Clara, and Damian. Her hand is extended to Clara. "Hello. It is good to meet a friend of Cassie's." She says in her naturally smoky voice.

Doreen Green has posed:
Having gotten plenty of pictures of the exhibits Doreen makes her way back towards the party proper, but not before stopping to properly read the display plate on the shield. "This is one of the shields used by Captain America during his USO War Bond tours before he established himself as a hero. Huh." As she's walking back out towards the party she turns to Monkey Joe on her shoulder. "So he was a performer before he became a great hero. I guess you and him have more in common than you though." Monkey Joe bobs his head in a nod, and chitters respectfully. Then points her in another direction. "Right, buffet sounds like a good idea. Fangushing over historical recreations works up more of an appitite than I thought!"

Summer Gleeson has posed:
Summer looks up when someone leans down and she gives a bit of a blink when Steve is addressing her, but she plays it cool. He's just Captain America. When he thanks her on the piece she did she smiles, "It was honestly no trouble, Captain. Sadly these days the news can be a bit of a cess pool. Trying to make sure we don't follow in the others footsteps." she tells him. "I appreciate you taking time to say that. I know you have a lot on your plate." she tells him quietly.

Damian Wayne has posed:
Damian chuckles softly, "I'll keep that in mind." he offers with a small smile of amusement, glancing up to Diana as she joins them, "Hello again, Princess." More proper in mixed company. And there is also Clara. "Clara, hey. Enjoying yourself?" he asks curiously as he glances around and blows out a breath. "I am almost at the edge of... well." a gesture of his hand to it all.

"I am not very long for large crowds." he admits. Already, he has his hands clasped to his sides, perhaps to keep them from shaking. He finally tucks them in his pockets to just hide them.

Caleb Dykstra has posed:
And of course, Caleb takes that handshake. Not a fanboy's shake, but a heartfelt one, "Thanks, Cap. That means a lot to me."

"And now, I must head out", he says as his smartwatch vibrates - the only thing that's not vintage in his clothes, but hey, everyone is reachable now-a-days, right? "Family calling." He tips his hat, "Always a pleasure."

On his way out, he too greets Bucky goodbye, "Mr. Barnes..."

Pamela Isley has posed:
Champagne flute held between two fingers, Pamela moves on from the spearhead, choosing to regard the shield on display. Green eyes shift from the shield to the owner himself, giving a casual once over before returning her attention to the kite shield. She can just imagine seeing the great Captain America, dancing in a USO tour show, and the thought brings a slight smile.

A slight smile that disappears into a temporary look of confusion as she witnesses a person...talking to a squirrel. A squirrel perched on merrily upon Doreen's shoulder. However, fortunately, the squirrel whisperer seemed to have missed Pamela's confused expression and has moved on to the buffet.

A hand reaches down, stroking the rose corsage upon Pam's wrist. "Yes...that was rather interesting." Says the person seemingly talking to a rose.

Cassie Sandsmark has posed:
"You like it?" Cassie wonders, looking down. "I was thinking of going with something a little more, you know. Party-ish. Like one of those USO girl outfits. Or try and get a reference off one of those pictures they used to paint on the bombers... But I don't know, it wasn't just a 1940s party, it has the whole World War two theme going, so it felt like it'd be fun to dress as a warrior woman of another era." Clearly, there's some Amazon thinking leaking through here. "...And their uniforms are still pretty cute."

As Diana comments on her new friend, she gestures with her drink hand, still balancing the food. "Yeah, this is Clara, if you haven't had a chance..." Notably, she doesn't bother introducing Diana. She's been all over the planet and not found a place they didn't know who she was. "We met at Babs' thing on New Years. Surprised you didn't swing by."

Finally, it's Damian's obvious discomfort that catches her intention. She might not know him as well as Tim, and Tim is the least broody of the whole bunch, but STILL. It's recognizable. "Sucks being a rich philanthropist then, huh? This is like, gonna be your day job," she tells him, lightly teasing. "But yeah, schmoozing is super awkward. No one -really- likes doing it."

Steve Rogers has posed:
"I don't know if he had the chance to tell you that himself," Steve replies to Summer. "And while I don't want to try to speak for him, I would imagine he's probably grateful as well. I hope that there are plenty of young reporters and future journalists out there inspired by your actions."

He straightens from having leaned over to talk to her, and gives Summer a friendly smile and nod before he turns back to Caleb. "Nice to see you again," he tells Caleb as the younger man departs.

A few moments to himself, Steve heads over to the buffet table, not having eaten since lunch. He moves a few things over to his plate, turning and nibbling a carrot stick as he moves away from the table to make room for others.

Bunny Macleod has posed:
    "OH, uh... kinda about a month ago. I mean, it's complicated. Really complicated. But it would be kinda rude of me to start talking without our other partner..." Bunny trails off and she rubs the back of her neck again and then she leaaans over.

    "Is... Bucky... stealing shrimp?" she pauses. "Does his jacket have a shrimp pocket?" she asks, fully distracted and her situational awareness completely having gone out the window.

Clara Jennings has posed:
    Out of the frying pan and into the social hotspot. Clara would be more enviable if she was better at calming down and having fun. Which she is not. At first.

    She is prepared, however. Those preparations included knowing at least some of the guest list. She has thus far managed to flounder into some of its most notable members of that list. It is time to fix that.

    "Good evening, Princess Diana," replies Clara. With a hand offered, she will accept it. There is an almost surreal calm then. "It is such an honor to meet you." She turns her attention to Damian and nods, her expression sympathetic. "It is a lot to navigate. But everyone seems to be having a great time, so you did well! And I am... trying my best. I kind of wound up asking Captain Rogers to dance, but I fear he was rather swarmed. I was rather hoping to try East Coast Swing tonight."

James Barnes has posed:
    It's not technically stealing if it's being eaten! Which it seems to be, given that Bucky is assembling a small pile of shrimp tails on the plate he's holding in his free hand.

    The water bottle from Kenesha is appreciated, as shown by the quick nod he aims in her direction. But currently he's got his hands full.

America Chavez has posed:
Other partner? America raises an eyebrow at Bunny, only to lift her snack in a slight salute toward her as if this was the proper response given the situation. "Gotcha."

Grinning she murmers, "Unless his jacket is posessed by the spirit of a cat, I think he's smuggled a little friend in here," she explains quietly to Bunny.

Doreen Green has posed:
Doreen Green sees Damian talking to another group on her way to the buffet and waves cheerfully at him. "Thanks again for inviting me! The exhibits are really interesting!"

Now, the buffet. Oh, there's so many choices! Plus she's got to look for something that would be safe for Monkey Joe as well.

Damian Wayne has posed:
Damian cuts a smirk at Cassie and would totally stick out his tongue if he knew it was polite not to do so. "Oh, is that so?" he asks with a shake of his head. And Damian, outside of Bruce, is probably the most broody. And also most likely to murder you.

But with Cassie's plate full of food, he shakes his head. "Then I will continue to have to distract myself." he decides with a shrug of his shoulders and pulls his hands out of his pocket.

And with that, he's moving to mingle, a wave to Doreen. "Anytime!" he asks, as he blows out a breath, needing to step away for a few moments to catch his breath and regather. How does his Father make this look so easy?

Sunny Harlow has posed:
"A little over a month, yeah," Sunny offers, nodding her head lightly and then grinning slightly at Bunny's little akward shift and America's apparent taking it in her stride. Her gaze shifts, moving towards Bucky as he's subtly caught out while she herself was claiming a small pastry and blinking with a grin. "I mean, if he's hungry, let the man eat, right?"

A blink at the alternative, Sunny makes a classic 'Awww' face. "Pocket kitten? Now I'm kinda wishing I had pockets."

Bunny Macleod has posed:
    "... it could be possessed by the spirit of a cat." Bunny whispers conspiritially to her cohorts. "You never know with the Great, Old Ones." she offers for a joke, and she breathes out, grabbing some cheese and crackers and crudite, and she looks up at Sunny.

    "Your dress doesn't have pockets?" she offers, and then she sticks one hand into her skirt. "Mine does!"

    And she pauses, and puts a serious face on "But not for shrimp. That'd make the laundry smell weird.

Diana Prince has posed:
Diana smiles brightly to Clara. "Always glad to meet a new friendly face." She tells the young woman before she watches Damian meandering off. She glances to Cassie then, before she reaches out to snatch the plate of food from her sister, along with her drink. She gives her a nod then, the kind of nod that is laced with a directive. A directive aimed at Damian's back. Clearly the Princess is conveying something without actually voicing it.

Cassie's drink is then, and there, summarily given a sip as she has fully stolen, and claimed the other's bounty of food and sauce.

Bruce Wayne has posed:
And one old sailor, having hung back throughout most of the festivities, just stands quietly, watching in quiet admiration at the proceedings.

Well done, he considers quietly, before shuffling off back from whence he came...Wayne Manor, where he peels off the disguise.

Cassie Sandsmark has posed:
Clara's impeccable politeness with Diana only really earns further amusmenet from Cassie, because Cassie... well, is anyone routinely LESS polite around Diana than she is?

Still, she's surrounded by awkward people. And even if she can offer whatever condolences or sympathies, it's probably undeniable that she's the most outgoing of the personalities present. So.... sometimes these things do fall to her. As, apparently, Wise Old Diana has already figured out!

Thus, observing both Clara's awkward manner and her talk of unrequited dance opportunities, and Damian's gloomy stalking off, she grins and reaches for the other young woman's wrist. "I don't really know any of thse old ones but c'mon, let's see if we can catch up with Damian and drag him out on the floor. I figure between the three of us we can figure something out. Maybe I can find a youtube tutorial real quick..."

She truly is a heroine of the modern age.

Clara Jennings has posed:
    Even Clara can detect Diana's unspoken communication. Which is something of a miracle, when you think of it. Far more impressive than throwing tanks or flying, honestly!

    "Oh, well, I happen to know them. All of them, actually." And in that moment, once the dance floor is reached, there is a kind of magical change. Clara knows what to do, where she is, and what the rules are. Most imporantly, though, in a dance, you always have a place for her hands to go.

    "We can start out with some of the simple stuff and then go from there," she suggests to Cassie, as they move to intercept Damian. "It is fun, and I bet it will be really easy for you."

Damian Wayne has posed:
There are so many places Damian would rather be at the moment. The rooftops of Gotham. Facing off against a villain. Hanging upside down over a vat of chemicals while Joker laughs manically about making him anew. Getting stabbed by Flatline. He'll take any of those.

There's a message on his phone to...

> Father. Send the car. I'm done.

And that will probably take care of all of his social interactions for 2024. Resolution: Be More Social. Unlocked! Achieved!

But then he glances up as Cassie and Clara approach and he musters up a smile as he tucks his phone in his pocket. "Hey." he offers, a glance to Cassie. And then there's offers to dance and he agrees to join both women on the floor.

Maybe he is Bruce Wayne's son after all.