17797/Met Gala 2024

Met Gala 2024
Date of Scene:	06 May 2024
Location:	Metropolitan Museum of Art
Synopsis:	See and be seen at the Met Gala. Check the internet entertainment pages to see your favorite stars!
Cast of Characters:	Pepper Potts, Mary Jane Watson, Sara Pezzini, Jason Wyngarde, Robbie Reyes, Tony Stark, Natasha Cranston, Simon Williams, Clea, Steve Rogers, Roberto da Costa

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Pepper Potts has posed:
The air crackles with anticipation on Fifth Avenue. Floodlights bathe the grand facade of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in a warm glow, casting long shadows that dance on the throngs of people gathered behind stanchions set up by New York's Finest. Walls of flashing cameras create a dazzling display, their pops echoing between the towering buildings. Reporters in their finest, mics held high, shout questions into the organized chaos, their voices barely audible over the excited chatter of the crowd.

A black limousine glides to a stop at the velvet rope, the engine a hushed whisper against the symphony of urban sounds. A doorman in crisp livery steps forward, his face a mask of practiced professionalism. Cameras erupt in a frenzy as a perfectly manicured hand emerges, followed by a figure draped in an extravagant gown that seems to shimmer under the lights. The flashbulbs go into overdrive, momentarily blinding as the celebrity, a vision of Hollywood glamour, steps onto the red carpet.

Microphones thrust forward block the celebrity's path. "Who are you wearing?" they shout. "How are you enjoying the theme?" The star, all smiles and with practiced ease, fields the questions with easy grace, offering soundbites peppered with designer names. Photographers clamor for attention, calling out poses and instructions. The celebrity spins, twirls, and strikes a pose, the massive diamond necklace around their throat glinting like a captured star.

Behind them, another limousine pulls up, disgorging the next glittering arrival. The scene repeats, a captivating dance of fame and fashion playing out under the watchful gaze of the museum's neoclassical guardians. The energy builds, a wave of anticipation pulsating through the crowd, each arrival a mini-drama, a carefully curated performance for the hungry eyes of the world. It's a night where fashion reigns supreme, and the steps of the Met become a stage for the beautiful, the powerful, and the trendsetting.

Mary Jane Watson has posed:
The redhead is hanging off the arm of someone that's rich and looks like they have nothing better to do here. Mary Jane's wearing a dress that -looks- extremely expensive, but is actually just some cheap silk that's tearaway with a sheen to it to make it look better. She goes to nod her head over at appropriate moments and smiles politely to anyone. Looking like arm candy - the girl that's hired to look good when the person she's with can't be bothered to make any sort of social connection.

But, she and her 'confederate' are both on security. Looking flat and smiling - more people there to look good and be noticed, but nothing else.

Sara Pezzini has posed:
This sort of event was not normally the sort that Detective Sara Pezzini would attend. She was known for preferring less formal affair, jeans and a t-shirt being the only requirement. Tonight was different however, tonight she was working and it gave her the excuse to actually dress up.

Arriving early, before the event was even scheduled to start, she ensured the security of the venue for own purposes. She was there to work, to ensure the safety of certain members of the Avengers and the crowd itself.

She had spent the better part of a week deciding on the dress she would wear. She had chosen a royal blue off the shoulder slip dress that hung to the floor with a slit up the side to allow her to walk. It was covered in matching blue gem stones, including some that hung as decorations from her body. Her chestnut hair was pulled up into loose curls on the top of her head, a light application of make-up on her face. On her feet were a pair of matching blue velvet pumps with a strap across the top of her foot to hold them on. The only thing that reminded anyone of who she actually was, was the intricate silver bracelet on her right wrist.

Jason Wyngarde has posed:
Jason Wyngarde shows up wearing a full plate silver facemask. It is silvered and mirrored as he wears a perfectly forming custom blazer with LED embroidery that folds in on itself. To the camera, its snazzy but the vermillion montebank he wears doesnt QUITE match. It would get the entire room looking at a normal social gathering but at a place like this which is one of THE excurions for the fashion world for the city, its small potatoes.

Of course, to the people not cameras, the embroidery approaches life, somehow involving very subtle holography that tells a subtle story to anyone watching what he is wearing with scenes from fairy tales painted in between lines, its like he is wearing a fashionable bejeweled tapestry whilst the montebank swirls to an unseen wind and there is a subtle subsonic music full of large brass horns.

Jason is here to push the envelope on his abilities, not for fashion and definitely not for a Flatscan museum. But art?

He can and does appreciate that as an artist.

Robbie Reyes has posed:
Why the hell does Robbie even come to these?

Because the few teams he's apart of - therefore the few friends he happens to have - keep telling him to get around more. So he hired a sitter for Gabe and arrived at the venue properly. With no small amount of help from Sara Pezzini, Robbie walks through the doors...not at all in theme. He wears a simple black suit - pitch black - with black undershirt, black tie, and even a cheap-looking black watch that looks more like a hand-me-down than an actual style choice.

People ask him question, and all Robbie does as he steps across the floor is-

"No, no...absolutely not, fuck off, no...no, and no again."

He doesn't stop for pictures, he doesn't turn his head to look at other people. He's no Tony Stark, he's no Reed Richards, he's sure as hell no Steve Rogers.

He's just here to support the team and support the message of the gala. He doesn't give a fuck about paparazzi though.

Tony Stark has posed:
    Cutting off the next limo in line, a red and gold Bugatti Veyron SS bearing the license plate 'STARK1' screeches to a halt in front of the red carpet. The doors open to allow Tony to exit the car, walking around to the passenger side where he offers a hand to Pepper as she gets out of the car. Both doors close as Tony mutters "HOMER, park somewhere where it won't get blocked in." In response, the now driverless car pulls away from the curb, headed for the VIP parking area.

    Hand in hand, Tony and Pepper walk the red carpet, Tony waving to the various reporters and paparazzi that line the outside of the velvet roped entrance. He's dressed in a custom fit suit of silver fabric, a dark purple shirt and silver tie beneath. He's also wearing a pair of his almost iconic glasses, which the paparazzi probably don't realize gives him all kinds of info and link directly to the global network of StarkNet satellites.

    He's in 'being seen' mode, pointing at a couple of the photographers he knows, generally making himself the center of attention. Today however, he might be a bit overshadowed by the stunning redhead he's holding hands with as they move towards the museum entrance.

Natasha Cranston has posed:
    There's quite a few things Natasha would rather be doing on an evening such as this than attend a gala of the rich, famous, and powerful -- there are informants to query, evidence to be analyzed, and she really needs to confirm or disprove her suspicions that the _Dageraad_'s operators are in the pay of the Maronis, and what their actual cargo is... But while she has carefully cultivated her persona of an eccentric dilettante with more money than manners, missing the Met would be a faux pas even for her.

    She sighs again, leaning back in the couch of her limousine as it waits in the queue -- somewhere in the comfortable middle, when most of the eager paparrazi have already gone chasing after some of the flashier people, and the more experienced ones are starting to feel the boredom. "You might as well go and take a break after you've dropped me off, Benny," she remarks. "I doubt I'll be able to credibly make my excuses any time soon."

    Benny just chuckles and shakes his head as he finally pulls up to the curb. "Oh, a whole evening stuck being forced to eat caviar, drink champagne and hobnob with the rich an' pretty. How awful. However will you cope..."

    Natasha manages to suppress the snort before her door is opened, and by the time she's standing on the carpet and starting to walk she has successfully transformed it into a brilliant (if slightly vapid-looking) smile as her gown - sleeveless black silk, glittering with silvery dots like captive constellations that catch the light as she moves - billows with each step. Her hair has been combed mostly straight, but something like glitter has been worked into the conditioner, in a subtle varriant of the same effect.

    She offers her invitation to the doorman, who bows and points her toward the table she'd reserved, but decides to spend some time being sociable before getting seated.

Pepper Potts has posed:
Ms Virginia "Pepper" Potts emerges from the flashy, fiery Bugatti, first one leg, then the other before gaining her feet, her hand out and settled on the arm of one Tony Stark. She's resplendent in a deep green, form-fitting sequined dress that hearkens back to the 1920s. The top holds a somewhat conservative dip that doesn't show too much decolletage with the skirt of the dress cut in geometric pattern, uneven. There are vintage fringe tassels that hang from the bottom of the skirt that move with every hint of motion.

Strawberry blonde hair is down, and hangs about her shoulders in large rings, with diamond and emerald drop earrings adding to the vision of the outfit. A subtle but present emerald necklace lies upon her chest, the outline of those clear stones that ring the green stone brings a gleam and glitter that is only enhanced by the lights of the reporters.

Pepper knows the game tonight; smiles and subtle waves are offered to those reporters, and in the direction of the crowds just beyond the stanchions. Her path on the red carpet is choreographed, side by side with Tony, hand in hand, and just like the others, she walks, pauses, smiles, poses, and any answer she may give to questions are difficult to hear above the general din of the entrance. While some of the smiles given may be de rigeur for the press, when she looks at Tony, there is that warmth and affection that reaches green eyes.

Simon Williams has posed:
Question upon question upon question. It's through sheer rote action that the questions are answered by Simon Williams. His adoring public would want to know all of these details and he doesn't seem to show any signs of exasperation at the multitude of questions. Between poses he answers, his smile almost never seeming to falter in the slightest save for when it's obliged on account of his speaking. The question of a rumor is thrown out regarding the rumor of a relationship between the actor and musician, but he simply laughs it off before crossing his arms over his chest to adopt one of his signature poses.

Dressed in red save for the black of his tie, one of his signature looks has been inverted by the people at one of his own clothing companies: Men of Wonder, by Simon Williams. Where normally he may wear the red shades that has become part of the icon's look, tonight he's adopted black shades to complement his black tie and clash with the inversion of his usual black ensemble. Over it all he wears a high collared red cloak, reminiscent of some old fairy tale prince. It hangs from his shoulders and the chain that stretches across his collar bones keeps it held in place. Under the flash of cameras, the small gems worked into that fine chain glitter and gleam with every aggressive shutter snap.

Finally he's through the gauntlet and Simon's able to step forward and onward, though his smile never seems to falter as he carries on into the gala proper.

Clea has posed:
Much to the chagrin of her stylist, Clea did not go down the red carpet the way that was the usual. While she had attended the gala before, she had no real understanding of all the cameras and reporters that went along with it and she was bad at trying to hit the marks that most photographers wanted her to.

It didn't bother her though.

The white haired woman was dressed in a purple gown that dipped into black towards the bottom of the skirting. Her overly long white hair has been tamed into a half up and half down style that leaves her face clear to the other attendants this evening. And per the usual the last few months, she's alone in her entrance.

Mary Jane Watson has posed:
As the others arrive, Mary Jane goes to look about over and then lets out a small cheer as she recognizes Simon. She goes to break away from the man she's with over while heading over towards Simon, "Can I have your autograph? Ninja Mime is one of my all time favorite movies. I've seen it like a dozen times!" She goes to rummage about in her purse of holding, and goes to take out a small notepad to if Simon lets her pass it along to him.

That comment might get some broad stares - first at the extent of Simon's filmography, next that someone considered it one of thier favorite movies.

Pepper Potts has posed:
Inside the grand foyer of the Met, the air thrums with a different kind of energy. Released from the orchestrated chaos of the red carpet, celebrities mingle and preen, the clinking of champagne flutes the new soundtrack. Crystal chandeliers bathe the opulent space in a warm, golden light, reflecting off the polished marble floor and glittering gowns.

Waiters and waitresses weave gracefully through the throng, balancing silver trays piled high with delicate hors d'oeuvres. Tiny puffs of pastry filled with foie gras are balanced precariously next to miniature quiches bursting with vibrant vegetables. A woman in a crimson gown, her diamond earrings catching the light, reaches for a skewer of glistening shrimp, her perfectly manicured hand a blur of movement.

Laughter and conversation rise in a continuous hum, punctuated by the occasional burst of recognition as celebrities greet each other with air kisses and practiced smiles. A group clustered near a towering marble statue debates the merits of the latest avant-garde designer, their voices a mix of amusement and critique. Nearby, a heartthrob actor leans against a pillar, phone pressed to his ear, a hint of frustration creasing his brow.

Despite the outward ease, an undercurrent of competition hums beneath the surface. Every pose, every conversation, feels subtly calculated. A newcomer, a rising starlet in a daringly sheer dress, draws a collective glance, with whispers rippling through the crowd like a gentle breeze. Here, on the hallowed ground of the Met Gala proper, even the hors d'oeuvres become a fashion statement, and every interaction a potential headline.

Sara Pezzini has posed:
No drink in hand, no horderves to munch, Sara watches as people begin to arrive and keeps an eye out for the primary reason she's there, Virginia "Pepper" Potts. Yes, the place is crawling with security, and Tony is /right/ there, and it was unlikely anything would happen at the Gala; but let's face it, the luck of those in the spot light tended toward the worst, rather than the best.

Spotting Pepper and Tony, she begins to make her way in that direction. She had no intentions at all of interfering with their mingling, instead she will linger close enough to be able to act but far enough away as to not intrude.

Jason Wyngarde has posed:
Jason Wyngarde sits at a chair on the end. Didnt pay for a table? No problem. In photographs, there is no table there. In practice, he has a table full of very attractive people chatting to him of the variety designed to indulge the most interest and jealous possible about who IS that figure in the mask. But the illusion also distracts any time someone comes up to talk to him...after all, he is an artiste and wants no one interupting his work.

Aside from some rather petty small illusions of any known bigots or mutant haters perceiving the camera exactly one foot the left or the photographer assuming they pose a little bit to early to get wide eyed awkward shots that are timed at the worst moments, or thinking they are eating one thing only to taste something totally different, he focuses on the intricate details of his own costume which becomes a bit more of a small greenscreen on the montebank, showing epic moving almost CGI like portrayls of fantasy battles and epic quests that draw the eye but dial down if someone comes within thrity feet of him.

Simon Williams has posed:
A small cheer rises up and soon there's a young woman approaching. The approach and the question earns a prominent, powerful chuckle from Simon before he extends a hand toward Mary Jane, "An autograph? Of course!" He accepts the notepad with practiced ease, though he wards off the pen with a show of his palm. He's quick to retrieve one of his own pens, of his own brand. Only rivaled by those NASA pens, when a pencil would do. While he splashes his signature across an entire page of the notebook, Simon glances up from just across the rim of his black shades and the glow of his eyes can only be seen by the young woman, "You know, when Rodge got in touch with me and asked me to play that police lieutenant shouting at the detective trying to catch the Ninja Mime? I thought he was nuts. Me, anything less than a Captain? Come on! It really did work out though".

The notebook is held out for Mary Jane to accept in return and in doing so, Simon's suave smile returns as he points toward her with a hand formed into a finger gun before he announces, clearly quoting one of his more celebrate lines from the film, "Do you want to die today, shinobi? Answer me!"

Fans of the film of course know that the Ninja Mime answers no one and the film had ended with a fade to black accompanied by the sound of a gunshot.

Tony Stark has posed:
    Getting inside, Tony relaxes ever so slightly, though the VIP crowd has it's own challenges and battles to be fought. Letting go of Pepper's arm for just a moment to snag two champagne flutes from a passing tray, he passes one to her before re-linking arms and letting her choose their path.

    Taking a sip, he follows Pepper's lead through the crowd. Today, she gets to feel out the crowd, plus she needs to get used to the spotlight as Stark Industries new CEO. It's not exactly throwing her to the wolves since he's there to back her up, but she's definitely been tossed into the deep end of the pool.

    He amuses himself by bringing up dossiers of the people who catch his attention on his glass's HUD. It's more interesting than most of their conversations, to be honest.

Pepper Potts has posed:
Pepper is no stranger to the Met itself. She sits on its Board of Trustees, helps guide the exhibits and makes sure funding is in place for the shows that it puts on for the public. (It's one of her volunteer endeavors.) Still, she's only been to a couple other Galas, both times on Tony's arm, and this is nothing like the smaller benefits. Here, everything she does is multiplied by a hundred; every move she makes, every smile, every conversation she holds. It can be daunting, but with her hand in his, and the gentle squeeze, she's ready, and she lets him go for the moment.

A sea of faces, from the young and eager to the bored, Pepper knows some of them as she scans the room for actual, //friendly// faces. A smile, a nod, and a quick,

"Hello, Ms Evers. Yes, it did come out lovely. They really did outdo themselves this year.. and don't you look lovely?" One person after another, and small talk galore, with the finish, "Yes, thank you. It really is an honor and I'm looking forward to where we can go with it.." Of course, comments regarding her newly acquired job title...

Sara's approach has Pepper looking relieved, the genuine expression flickering; there and gone before that veneer of 'luxury' creeps back on. With a free hand, she reaches out to Sara's hand to give that a quick squeeze, followed by a mouthed 'thank you'.

Tony's return with the champagne earns the man a quick, warm smile. Tonight, she's going to need him... the energy in the room feels //funny//.

Clea has posed:
The Avengers probably have a few tables given most of their roster will show up at some point in the evening and Clea heads in that direction to get something to drink and take one of the corner seats. It allows her to keep her violet gaze on things all the while being comfortable.

While she doesn't take a seat she decides to just go back to floating as it is her natural state. Now she just looks like some highly fashionable specter here to haunt someone.

Natasha Cranston has posed:
    Natasha notices Tony and Pepper making their entrance, of course, but makes no outward sign -- the operations plan calls for a 'clean' debut at the press conference, which means no giving hints to the paparazzi that there's something to dig at. Instead, she flits from one spot to another like a dark glittering butterfly, exchanging cordial greetings and polite nothings with fellow industrialists, up-and-coming celebrities, already-there celebrities, and about-to-go celebrities, before invariably moving on to flag down a waiter for a fresh glass of champagne.

    ... It'd take an extremely astute and focused observer to realize that she almost invariably leaves each glass almost entirely untouched and 'forgotten'. The net effect leaves less astute observers with the impression that she's drinking quite heavily for this early in the evening; a useful cover for making the occasional impertinent comment.

Mary Jane Watson has posed:
Mary Jane Watson would grin over at Simon "I know he's done everything with everyone. Well, other than STanley Kubrik." Who has been dead a long time. Not that death means a lot when it comes to cinematography. "Sounds like one major favor. Or did you just want to work with him at some point?" She would query. "He always seems to be doing things. I sort of wonder sometimes if he's like a fae or something cursed or blessed with the ability t ohave to always make movies and never take a breather.. Or get a budget." She seems rather appreciative of getting to do this sort of conversation.

"And you ever bene in something in the Tromaverse series?" By which she meant the Toxic Avenger and all the glories with came with that legendary series of epics.

Simon Williams has posed:
"Sometimes a favor, big or small, is just the right thing to do," Simon answers back at Mary Jane and her observation about the previous collaboration between 'Rodge' and Simon himself. The notepad is offered back to Mary Jane and in doing so he offers another chuckle, commenting on the matter of Roger and his budgetary issues, "You know if a director can pull one out of the hat on a low budget and create something like 'Ninja Mime'? That's an example of sheer talent".

Simon's smile persists even as he begins to move, venturing further and onward into the gala itself. The question of the Tromaverse earns a swift shake of his head, along warm and rich bout of laughter, "The Toxic Janitor 2 was my contribution and I learned a lot from that role. Sometimes you have to take a small step before a big jump," the acting icon explains, as though offering a little business insight for Mary Jane's notes.

He pauses again and extends a hand, smiling prominently as ever as his high-collared cloak shifts with his turn to face the inquiring young mind, "I'm sorry, what's your name again? I need to step away to mingle and everything, but I want to remember it when I start hearing about your own successes". As ever, Wonder Man is all smiles when among his element. If every little detail is something for the tabloids to eat up? Then Simon's giving them just enough to keep his name in the press.

A passing waiter is greeted with a smile and Simon claims a flute for himself. While Wonder Man doesn't truly need food, drink, air, and more? Sometimes appearances are necessary. Sometimes sensations are just as important as the thing itself.

Mary Jane Watson has posed:
Mary Jane Watson wouldsmile over at Simon, "Michelle Jones. This really isn't my thing but a friend called in a favor for one of thier friends who couldn't get a date." SHe makes a sour face, the exact sort of 'reason' here passively obvious. "And I get a dress out of it and it's an open bar, so you work with what you have." At least it's got that going for it as far as the girl presents herself.

"And I probably should get back to them before they start doing something that's going to make the tabloids. There are things here that have even less class than the Bugle when it comes to the society section."

Pepper Potts has posed:
Natasha is also noticed; there isn't much that escapes Pepper's view. The plan to keep separate so no hints of their partnership gets traction is a good one; speculation is not their friend. She does offer a quick smile before she turns back around, champagne now in hand. "This is exhausting," is murmured to Tony before she brightens to greet yet another couple sidling up to them. This is the moment she wishes that Tony would just.. be Tony.

Small talk is offered, the soft laugh, nods, and a glance or three given in Clea's and Sara's direction. "Really, I think you should submit proposals. You're in a perfect position to do so," Pepper's stuck in conversation now with a producer and his 'pretty little thing' of the week. "But," and the champagne is brought to her lips again for a sip, giving her a moment to breathe before it's lowered a little, "I don't need to be the one to tell you that." As if she has any leverage in the movie industry?

Stark Industries hasn't gone that direction.. not yet, anyway.

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers was late returning from a mission, glancing at his watch as he ran from the landing pad at Avengers Mansion towards his room. A shower was a necessity to scrub off ash from his face. Then a quick change into a tuxedo. "Am I forgetting anything?" he asks aloud as he fixes his bowtie in the mirror.

"Everything looks shipshape, Captain," the voice of JARVIS replies. "I have a driver waiting downstairs to take you to the event. I'm sure Mr. Stark and Miss Potts will be pleased."

"That's why I do it," Steve says, hurrying downstairs to the waiting car.

Before long the car pulls up at the event and Steve climbs out. He pauses for photos, if not as long as the paparazzi would like. And he gives them a waves thank you as he heads inside despite their calls to stay longer for more pictures.

"Hopefully that's the worst part," he murmurs to himself as he stops inside the safety of the doors sheltering him from the photographers, to take stock of the event.

Sara Pezzini has posed:
Sara continues to maintain a respectful distance, watching the happy couple and those around them. She looked good, she knew she looked good, but she was more interested in doing a job than celebrating with the people present. Really, not her kind of thing.

Simon Williams has posed:
"Well, Michelle," Simon begins with a bright smile as he extends a hand, offering it for a simple shaking, "like I said: small steps, big leaps. Maybe this is your small step before the big leap". Whether the hand is accepted and shaken or not, Simon does ultimately drift away. The flute in hand, he traces a meandering path through the gala. A shared word or four here and there, a pair of phantom cheek kisses exchanged with one past companion or another, even a couple of hugs excitedly given from former co-stars.

Nearby he spies Captain America himself and Wonder Man does, of course, drift nearby for a moment. He tilts his head so that a brief, quiet exchange may be offered. It'll drive the papers crazy. His own fandom, probably along with Cap's as well, will undoubtedly be driven into a mouth-foaming frenzy, "That was the easy part, Steve-o. Now you're in the shark tank," he says with a flash of a grin and an upward dance of his brows that widens his eyes just enough that their red glow is visible over the top of his shades. He doesn't have more to say however and their brief brush with mutual stardom is enough to get their names trending on social media, of course. Simon's ready to step away and move onward with casual, yet practiced expertise.

Tony Stark has posed:
    Tony finger-guns at someone he's met before, probably still getting a decent amount of attention even though he's trying to let Pepper have the lion's share tonight. Popularity can be a bit of a curse, you can't sneeze without it being analyzed by three different tabloids (Tony Stark allergic to art!). There is a certain amount of fun in trying to control the information, but generally, it's a chore.

    He also notices Natasha and raises his glass slightly to her in acknowledgement before moving on with Pepper. While she talks to the director, he eyes the 'pretty little thing'. He's given up womanizing, it's true, but but they're still nice to look at. He's only human, after all. Once they move away from the producer he comments quietly to Pepper, "What do you think, should I buy a movie studio? Want to see how many pies SI can get it's fingers into?"

Clea has posed:
Clea gives a raise of her glass to Pepper when she catches her looking her way. She wasn't sure if anything was going to happen at the gala, it would be very very high profile if someone did decide to do something silly. One of the wranglers do come over to speak quietly with her and there is a frown, "Really? It's making someone uncomfortable?" she squints. She floats down, commanding her feet to accept gravity for the moment. "I hope that helps." she states with a sweet smile.

Pepper Potts has posed:
What? 'Pretty little thing' being looked at by Tony Stark?! She shifts at her date's side, a lick of her lips, showing a little bit of pearly-white teeth. Between the two, Tony is absolutely the more desirable; and all the rumors she's heard is that he can do so much more for her than the producer, and just as she mouths her phone number, Tony's turning away with Pepper, their own conversation whispered. "No," Pepper answers quickly, "I think we've got our hands full without your.. getting your hands fuller." She glances back at the pair, the producer talking to yet another small group of people, the 'pretty little thing' looking at Tony disappointingly before she returns her attention to Tony.

Steve's appearance has many heads looking in his direction; for as many celebrities present, there are few that command attention quite like Captain America. Whispers rise, and Pepper looks back, her smile shifting towards that warm, genuine expression. "We should rescue him-" and there is Mr Williams. Who doesn't recognize HIM? "Oh dear.." She can just see the articles now..

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers gives Simon Williams a smile as the man comes over to him. He offers a firm handshake. "Simon, nice to see you," Steve says, before giving a chuckle about having only passed the easy part. "I don't know. Maybe I should be more apprehensive in here, but somehow I always feel it worse in front of those cameras. Like I should check my shoe for some toilet paper stuck to it or something," Steve says, keeping the last part a quiet, private joke with Simon.

Looking around the room, Steve notes a few other familiar faces. "I see a few others from the team made it," Steve comments. He gives Simon a nod as the other man looks ready to go and mingle more. "I should definitely go and congratulate the hostess," Steve says, his eyes alighting on Pepper and Tony and starting to make his way towards them even as they talk of rescuing him.

Sara Pezzini has posed:
Now that Captain America has arrived, Sara half grins and offers him a nod. It was unlikely there would be trouble, but now with most of the Avenger's heavy hitter present, it was extremely unlikely.

"Good to see you, Steve," she offers from her post not that far from Pepper and Tony, and then she falls silent again.

Simon Williams has posed:
"Even what you say in here can get back to the tabloids. Rumor and gossip's worth money too and an assistant may want a little extra spending money," Simon reminds helpfully. The words are kept to a smiling mutter. The sort that seems to intrude upon the smile or cause it to diminish, but are largely intelligible. The offered hand is given a firm shake, but not too firm from the Wonder Man. Their farewell is an easy thing, "A few of them did. Everyone's all the safer for it, too".

Though as Steve talks of congratulating the hostess and Simon's own trajectory seeming intended for the very same direction, it turns out that Wonder Man and Captain America end up walking together in the direction of Ms. Virginia Potts and Anthony Stark. If social media was going to blow up before? They've just broke the internet in that side-by-side stroll through the gala. Simon makes sure to give the high collar of his cloak a little refreshing. Which mostly means he gives it a little pop.

Probably to fill the time between Point A and Point B, which ends in their arrival in the vicinity of the new CEO of Stark Industries and the name still attached to the company, Simon comments with a smile cast aside toward Steve, "An easy rule to follow? The more out of place they look; assume they're very important. Especially if you were probably born around the same time as them". It's sage advice.

Natasha Cranston has posed:
    Natasha seems to have gotten ensnared by a hopeful up-and-comer starlet, an attractive young man who'd probably be a great deal more charming if he talked about himself less, but pretending to listen to him allows her to take in the room without being obvious about it. She can't resist making a brief surface scan, but immediately regrets it -- not much in the way of true evil, but the sheer banality of the selfishness of some of these people would be enough to drive a lesser woman to drink in truth.

    All of a sudden, however, her eyes widen fractionally as she spots an immediately recognizable face in the crowd -- although perhaps not for the same reason anyone else might.

    "... My goodness, is that--?" She murmurs, interrupting the up-and-comer, gently pushing him to the side as she makes her way across the room towards where Captain Rogers is trying to avoid being mobbed...

Tony Stark has posed:
    Tony might just be grinning to himself as Pepper all but drags him away from the eye candy. Just a little more proof, not that he really needs it, of how she feels about him. "Well, I didn't mean hiring her specifically Pep. It's just we've got a worldwide satellite network already, we could get into the entertainment end of things. Maybe a streaming service if not making actual movies."

    He takes another sip from his glass. "Yeah, let's swing by Steve and say hi, at least. He's pretty well adjusted to the present day at this point, but I don't think he's quite got the high society dance mastered yet. Of course, I also don't think he really cares about that kind of thing. It must be nice to not have to deal with it, honestly."

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers smiles over to Sara as well. "You too Sara, you're looking lovely. Hopefully your friend lets you stay that way for the evening," he says, words turning teasing as he references the Witchblade's effect on clothing.

Clea is given a smile and an up nod from Steve as he and Simon are crossing the room. The Avenger alighting on her feet for a change makes Steve comment to Simon, "I wonder if she gets tired like people do walking around, or if she can keep going like that all day." He then chuckles at Simon's joke that draws his age into it, well used to being the old man of the team, quite literally.

As Steve and Simon approach Pepper and Tony, Steve sees Natasha Cranston coming his way. "Miss Cranston," he pauses to say. "Thankfully no costume exhibits this time," he says, referencing the hero and villain costume exhibit where the costumes came to life with the powers of their normal wearers. "Hoping for a quieter evening. I hope you are well?"

Pepper Potts has posed:
And, there it is.. the announcement for dining and dancing. It's not done in an overhead announcement way, but rather, there are 'head of house' staff that graciously opens the invitations for the groups so gathered. With a hand on an arm, a soft 'pardon' murmured to break into what could be 'power conversations', there is the gentle but persistent request for all to move further into the Grand Ballroom where the event truly gains its traction.

Crystal chandeliers twinkle merrily overhead, casting a warm glow on the vibrant scene within the Metropolitan Museum's grand ballroom. Lush floral arrangements spill over tables laden with gleaming silverware and crystal goblets. Celebrities, a dazzling constellation of shimmering gowns and sharp tuxedos, weave through the elegant space. The chatter of well-heeled conversation mingles with the lilting strains of a small symphony orchestra tucked away in a corner.

Despite the orchestra's lively performance, the music maintains a comfortable volume, allowing for conversation and a gentle sway on the dance floor. Couples twirl gracefully, their movements mirroring the elegance of the surrounding artwork. The room itself has been transformed into a breathtaking backdrop. Tables are strategically placed, allowing guests a glimpse of the museum's current exhibition. Intricate sculptures and captivating paintings peek out from behind towering centerpieces, creating an unparalleled ambiance. Here, the worlds of art and high society merge seamlessly, offering a feast for both the eyes and the soul.

Pepper keeps her head down ever so slightly, her voice soft to an intimate conversation level. "Let's keep the frequency for the telecommunications, and if we have any bandwidth left over.." She glances towards that group that they'd just left and shakes her head, "No.." She does love Tony, and she's very aware that he is still so very desirable to others. He's still a household name, and she doesn't foresee a time when he's not. Ever.. which is okay with her.

"Steve," Pepper straightens, her smile playing on her face. Some things never change? She's always happy to see him. A quick air kiss is given to the man, should he accept it, and green eyes sparkle, "Looking very handsome." There's a beat before, "Mr Williams. Soaking up the atmosphere as well. This is the night to do it.. if you have aspirations, I can send you in the direction of a producer." Uh huh..

Clea is given a smile, offering some port in a storm.

"But, we should probably move into the ballroom.."

Sara Pezzini has posed:
Sara raises a brow slightly, not at what Steve said but from Witchblade's reaction to what he said. If the entity has his way, he's ruin the dress in a second, but there was no reason to and thus he was muttering about a boring evening with nothing to do.

"Don't worry Steve, he's bored but has no reason to ruin it just yet," she comments with a chuckle. "And thank you for the compliment, you look fantastic, but you always do."

No, the interaction between Pepper and Tony is not missed, but it was wonderful to see a couple that actually worked, and lasted. Her luck in that department was... well there was no luck. When they prepare to move to the ballroom, she prepares to move with them.

Clea has posed:
Clea's given an apologetic smile by the person that was helping out, "Apologies on that and thank you." they state. She gives a dip of her head to the woman, "It's no trouble at all." she explains in a quiet tone. Clea might look human, but she definitely is not. She gives Steve a lift of her glass in return greeting. Then there is a look down to her phone and a bit of a frown, but she slips it into the dress pocket (yes it had pockets!) and then lets folks point her to where she needs to go in all of the glitz and glamour of this chaos.

Roberto da Costa has posed:
Roberto Da Costa arrives fashioanbly (?) Late in a black silk tuxedo that is cut and tailored to look like a pajamas, using a jacquard patterned silk. He is wearing a pair of loafers in a complementary suede that could double as slippers. He arrives solo and doesn't really seem intent on talking about it, given the bevy of beautiful women he has been sighted with in recent days, dating a shapeshifter has its advantages. he speaks about the chiarity and about the recent green initiatives his company has been pursuing and even glowingly about the evenings host but stays clear of mutant affairs.

Natasha Cranston has posed:
    "As well as can be expected, thank you Captain," Natasha replies graciously, extending a hand. "And agreed, I'd much prefer a great deal less unplanned excitement this time around. Thankfully, you and the other Avengers were on hand to contain things. Much as I'd have loved to see you in action, I'm afraid I was too busy running for safety at the time."

     Her smile turns slightly impish. "That said, from what little I did see, your reputation is certainly well deserved..."

Simon Williams has posed:
"Miss Potts," Simon answers with his prominent smile that gradually gives way to a more relaxed expression etched across his features. "It's been a delight so far and it's great to see everyone having a ball with it. Like Tony here, soon enough you're going to have your name on everything," Simon comments with a bright smile and without any venom to his words. It seems like his optimism on behalf of Pepper is likely genuine. To Tony though, Wonder Man offers a cheerful smile, "We should catch up soon. Do a collab".

Simon doesn't linger for long or consume too much time. It's the MET gala and there's plenty of people to meet, ears to bend, hands to shake, photos to stand for (or stage), elbows to rub, and minds to change. Simon Williams is in his element and he's on the hunt for his next big collab. Whatever stripe that may be.

Steve Rogers has posed:
As Clea returns the non-verbal greeting with a lift of her glass, Steve glances over to Simon Williams to comment with a soft laugh, "Why don't I have one of those?" A passing waiter seems to hear him and stops with a tray from which Steve takes a rock glass that might have bourbon or whiskey or something like that in it, on the rocks.

"Thank you," he says, turning smoothly back to Natasha to shake the offered hand. "Well it was probably the wisest course of action," Steve assures her. "And I recall how much your have put your company's resources to use helping others. The help with supplies for refugees and rebuilding Genosha. I know that meant a lot to Wanda and Pietro in particular. The world needs more people like, you Miss Cranston, so best we keep you as safe as can be," he says warmly.

As they continue on, Steve meets Roberto's eye as he's talking to the reporters. The student, or former one, from Xavier's is given a smile and nod of recognition from Steve on the way past.

And then they are reaching Pepper and Tony. Steve just kind of gestures with his hands as if, what is there to say, and if Pepper allows him he moves over to give her a polite kiss on the cheek. "The place looks amazing. And you even wrangled Tony up and got him here. I put that down as working miracles," he says, blue eyes twinkling over at Tony with the mild gibe.

Roberto da Costa has posed:
Roberto Da Costa grabs a canape off a tray, and flute of champagne as he circulates. He chats with various tech moguls and entrpeneurs, finance bros and scions of industry. IN other words he makes the rounds, but he does take the moment and incline his head toasting the Captain, with a touch of reverance. He flashes a smile and then is back into the scene of making contacts and looking for collabs, investors, even hangers on for his next big idea.

Tony Stark has posed:
    As they reach Steve, Tony nods and says "Hey there Cap. Looks like the gangs all here tonight, it's like a mini Avengers get-together. That being the case, I'm going to predict that nobody is going to be dumb enough to attack the party tonight. Though that would relieve the boredom a bit."

    He glances to Pepper and says, "Not including you in the boredom, obviously." Returning his attention to Steve he adds "And really, she didn't have to wrangle that hard. I come to these things often enough. It's expected, and sometimes you can even make decent contacts.

    Looking over at Simon, he says "Give me a call, maybe you can convince my new CEO to let me buy a movie studio that we can get you into." He winks and squeezes Pepper's hand lightly.

Pepper Potts has posed:
Whispers rise from yet another late arrival; they do keep filing in, having to run the red carpet. Crowds are still without, though they may be thinning if only a little. A chance to glance at a favorite celebrity keeps most of them in place; and the opportunity to perhaps get an autograph? To be talked to?

That's what dreams are made of!

Tables are set around the unobtrusive dance floor; the bursts of flowers in exotic types and hues give a fragrance that is sweeter than any perfume. (At the end of the evening, one person from each table will be graced with the centerpiece.)

Pepper laughs at Simon's words as they wander to the next room. "I know what's important, Mr Williams." That 60/40. Names are a bonus! "It was good to see you. I hope we get to see you again soon."

Steve's final approach, has him leaning in for the kiss, and the woman is brilliant. "He wouldn't miss this chance," Pepper murmurs, her tones fond. "And I couldn't do this alone." There's the quiet confession, complete with the glance spared for her companion, the man who has truly become her 'other half', whether there's a ring or not. "See?"

Tony's parting words to Simon gains a laugh from the redhead, though.. and her eyes move theatrically to the heavens. "You are impossible." It's true.. and she loves him for it.

Natasha Cranston has posed:
    "... Not too safe, one hopes," Natasha replies, a twinkle in her eye that might just be the drink. "After all, life would get entirely too boring without occasional excitement..."

    She chuckles at her own joke, which turns into a soft but musical laugh as she turns and heads toward the dance floor proper.

Jason Wyngarde has posed:
Jason Wyngarde expands his aet on subtle ways. Pro mutant heroes are given plausibly real but minor flourishes to their appearqnce amd style, givem more notice from the media real or illusionary to make them pay more attention and their food tastes better too. Anti mutant celebrities or known critics have minor but emberrasing wardrobe malfunctions, food shots while eating, minor balance issues while dancing and the food and booze tastes watered down ajd just outright bad.

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers tells Simon, "Just don't let them talk you into war films. Trust me. As fun as it is to punch out Hitler take after take, you end up with a sore hand," he says, wringing out his hand like it was hurting as he smiles over to the other Avengers.

The toast in way of greeting from Roberto is returned now that Cap has a drink in h and as well. He returns the gesture and then takes a sip from the glass before looking back to the others there.

"Well," Steve tells Tony of making contacts, "I'll be content just to show up and try to help a good cause," he says. And then has to pause to greet a couple who stop by and say hello.

Pepper Potts has posed:
Pepper listens to the men chat, her brows rising, "Thank you for not including me in the 'boredom' part," she draws. "I'd rather nothing happen this evening," though there are a few people who seem to be having a few issues. Wine spilling on their dresses, a malfunction here.. but Steve seems more radiant, Tony, that touch of grey that touches his beard seeming a little less.. present. Definitely handsome.

"Hmm.." but there's nothing more said about it.

Instead? "Don't let Tony talk you into anything you may be sorry for, Steve," Pepper offers softly.

Roberto da Costa has posed:
Roberto Da Costa finishes his canape and the flute depositing the latter on a passing tray as he makes his own way on the dance floor, flirting easily finding a partner and spinning away almost as if he was trying to avoid something but when the songs ends he can avoid it no longer and makes his way to a table, near the center of the room.

    A place fore the long term attendees, the old guard.

    He sits at the right hand of a beautiful and distinguished older woman, bright red hair, perfect make-up, expertly coiffed and attired. "You are late, was it heroing or that... woman."

    Roberto takes his seat, "Neither, it was business Mama. You will be happy to know that we've broken up, it just wouldn't work." Roberto looks sad a rare crack in the public facade, he looks down and away to cover the slip. His mother, not truly a Monster, takes a beat and nods, "I am sorry, Roberto. I know you cared for her deeply. But perhaps it is for the best. How is Stephanie? I was hoping she'd be here tonight." Roberto smirks, "Still engaged Mama." And that's when the meal arrives.

Tony Stark has posed:
    "Shall we go see what our hosts have decided to serve tonight? Might as well get a decent meal since we're here." Not that he's too worried about it. For a ridiculously rich person, he's probably had more Hot Pockets microwaved in his workshop than he has gourmet dinners. The drive to build the things his brain comes up with is a bit incompatible with regular mealtimes.

    He's still letting Pepper set the pace, though when she does decide to sit he holds the chair for her before taking his own seat. Believe it or not, Tony does have manners when he's not making fun of someone or just being generally snarky.

Steve Rogers has posed:
Steve Rogers takes another sip of his drink and looks out towards the dance floor. "I don't suppose they have Count Basie on the play list?" he asks, eyes swinging back to Pepper to flash the little grin over at her.

If Steve is looking a little more dapper in his tuxedo, he's not aware of it. Though the pro-mutant hero can't help but wince as a certain famous Senator goes to take a bite and his food falls off his fork to leave a smear down the white of his shirt.

Turning back to Tony, Steve gives a nod. "I could use something. I actually came straight over from a long flight back," he says.

Pepper Potts has posed:
Pepper notices Roberto as the young man takes his seat with his mother. She knows them, if only in terms of business. She waits, and then gives the two of them a nod. She received the kind gift from De Costa, and it was definitely appreciated. She'll have to double down and thank him in person as well as having sent a 'thank you' note.

Food does sound good, and she demurs, allowing herself to be led, and then the chair pulled out for her, then it settled in. She knows all about the Hot Pockets, though Chef has been making inroads, much to both her and Chef's happiness. She wants him around for a long time to come...

"They might, Steve," Pepper laughs as she looks to the other man. "Some Pennsylvania 6-5-thousand?" If there's a chance, it'll be a good one here. "I think any woman here would die to dance with you to a big band tune."