8521/Holiday Hope Release Party

Holiday Hope Release Party
Date of Scene:	06 November 2021
Location:	Sion - Nightclub
Synopsis:	The party's on at the Sion! Several homeless shelters reap the rewards
Cast of Characters:	Michael Hannigan, Ka'shira Raptorethi, Anthony Druid, Michael Erickson, Jason Blood, Felicia Hardy, Laxmi Mallick, Damian Wayne, Alison Blaire, Madelyne Pryor

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Michael Hannigan has posed:
A car pulls up in front of club Sion, and as the doorman opens the back passenger door, several well dressed, but definitely ready to party, attired persons step out and make their way to the door. One of the persons pulls out an envelope, handing it over to the man standing in front of the mirrored door. After a bit of an inspection, there is a silent nod before the doors are opened, granting the group access inside.

Thump. Thump. Thump. Thumpa Thumpa Thump Thump Thump. Thumpa Thumpa Thump Thump Thump.

While the sounds of music escaping from the door hints to those strolling along outside of Club Sion that club is open, the sign outside stating that a special event is going on inside is more than enough to indicate it's not quite a regular night there.

For this Saturday night Sion is the place for Hope. Holiday Hope to be precise. This dual album set was just released earlier this week in an effort to raise funds for several homeless shelters in the New York City and Boston area. And to add to the efforts, the release party has been opened up to those who won admission through a drawing from the album presales and those willing to pay for the much higher priced (and limited) tickets inside. Those involved with the production and marketing of the album as well as several representatives of the shelters being benefited by the party are there as well.

It is a very good turnout inside the establishment. With the limited nature of the tickets, they have managed to increase the amount of breathing room to where things are not stifling but there are still plenty of bodies upon the dance floor.

While the release party is for a holiday album the music currently playing is most decidedly not that. Upon the stage area, the local band Mystik Spiral is setting up while the DJ provides music in the meantime. For those wanting a written schedule of who is performing when and where, they're out of luck. But if past parties are any indication, the lineup will likely consist of local bands the musicians on the album particularly want to highlight while they make the rounds thanking people for helping the shelters .

While the dancing and the drinking are going on the main floor, it is much quieter on the second level overlooking the dance floor area. Another bar is situated up there and there are several displays set up representing each of the shelters that are to benefit from the proceeds for the night. For lack of a better term. When it comes to charity work, For tonight only, this is- The room where it happens.

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Having widely missed her mark on the Earth Holy Day Halloween, Ka'shira spent many hours researching appropriate attire for an 'album release party.' Her research mostly turned up everything from sneakers and jeans to glamorous evening wear. What she ended up wearing then could most easily be described as 'Elegant Rockstar.' Dressed in an unopened tuxedo jacket that revealed the midriff-baring tube top, sky-high stiletto heels, and painted on leather pants, all in black. A minimal amount of jewelry accented her ensemble, platinum diamond studs, a tennis bracelet, and a glittery handbag. A touch of dark makeup defined her dusky features and added to that rockstar vibe. Finally, her normally pixie-cut hair gathered in long cinnamon waves to nearly her pert rear end.
     Having purchased a pair of the limited available tickets, Ka'shira arranged to attend. While this sort of party went against the strictures of her upbringing, it provided an excellent opportunity to move about as her socialite alter ego. So she exited the rented black sedan and waited for Michael to join her before entering the nightclub.

Anthony Druid has posed:
As a young guru, many years ago, Anthony Druid attended similar parties for charity albums all the way back in the early 90s. Of course, then, he was usually indulging psychedelics and cruising the place for chicks. Are things so different these days?

Well, no, not entirely.

The good Doctor is wearing a black turtleneck and a pair of corduroy slacks, a Stark Watch on his wrist and with his bald head proudly displayed. A prominent figure in popular culture, Dr. Druid attracts a wide variety of individuals, from older people looking for someone near their age to socialize with to youngsters who've grown up watching his show looking to snap a selfie with the mystic or make a Tik Tok of him dancing to some song. He doesn't mind being a figure of fun - younger generations should mock their elders. It's the natural cycle.

And it's all for a good cause, on top of it. For the moment, Druid is relaxed, comfortable and, as the kids today say, vibing.

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Playing sentinel, Michael Erickson arrives along with Ka'shira - her date, or something like it, getting out of the sedan behind her and letting her handle the tickets as he stands behind her in line. Looming. Battered jacket, t-shirt, jeans, boots. Undercut hair and a grim expression. He hovers behind Miss Leather-Pants in the way of either a guard or a really vigilant boyfriend, hands in his pockets as he waits for he signal to go in.

    Naturally, he doesn't say much unless spoken to. His kind rarely do.

Jason Blood has posed:
Jason Blood has connections. He purchased the ticket to this venue to both indulge a curiosity in modern music and annoy his inner demon. He steps out of a livery car, wearing a tuxedo. Yes tie and tails. Rather old fashioned? No. Classic! He steps in the door, walking stick at his side, his eyes flash a deep red momentarily.

<<This is the season for loving and faith, the rest of the year is loathing and hate! Slay the homeless! Tis more kind! End their roaming spare change to find.>> Etrigan snerks.

Jason's smile grows as Etrigan fumes and he enters, stopping to hold a door for a young lady. He did belong to a chivalric order.

Felicia Hardy has posed:
    "No. No reason to freak out. I'm simply out, getting some air." Says Felicia into her cell phone before looking up at the stall around her and frowning as she reaches back and throws the handle, causing the commode to flush. "Yeah. I'll be headed home sometime tonight, but like I said, home was feeling cramped."

    "I'll talk to you soon. Byyye." Felicia says, hanging up the call, and slipping her phone into her clutch before opening the bathroom stall and stepping across to the bank of sinks. Washing her hands, and then squaring up a piece of paper towel, she carefully dabs at her face and eyes, making sure to remove just a smidge of excess makeup and even out her face. Flirting at herself in the mirror briefly, and adjusting her white shimmering dress with no back and a low front, making sure it doesn't slip during the dancing. Felicia nods at herself, winks and blows a kiss before turning, with clutch in hand and stepping out back into the club.

    A few familiar faces, but the socialite doesn't approach any at the moment as she's simply walking around, enjoying the sounds and the sights, getting a feel for the party before she starts to really indulge.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    The young lady in question happens to be one Laxmi Mallick, arriving dressed in one of her best lehenga - the brightly colored skirt and midriff-baring blouse intricately stitched with sequins and beads designed to catch the light and sparkle as she moves. Golden jewelery, studded with emeralds, sparkle at her wrists, neck, hairline, and at the center of her forehead, as she offers a grateful not to the unfamiliar man. Her hands are free at the moment - her beloved sarod already carefully stowed in the back of the club, along with the rest of her band's equipment and instruments. She pauses briefly after stepping inside, glancing around the occupants of the club, then turns towards a camera man with a bright smile for a photograph, before continuing deeper into the club.

Damian Wayne has posed:
     Charity donations is no unknown territory for members of the Wayne Family, though the Wayne connection with Nick Drago is held by the youngest of the Wayne family.

  Of course, Damian Wayne had to show up to celebrate the release of the new album. He showed in a limo, and made himself at home in the club.

  He was in a green dress shirt, black vest, and black slacks. All bespoke and cut just so perfectly. He walked around nodding to the music, no security or any others in his posse as it were, but that was his preference.

  He walked around, letting the beat of the music guide him around as he bobbed to the rhythm.

Michael Hannigan has posed:
The man at the door watches as Ka'shira and Michael get out of the car. Upon their approach and the presentation of the tickets, there is a nod of greeting to the pair. "Enjoy the party." He states with a smile, reaching over to pull the mirrored door open to grant them access.

When the pair are inside, a glance is given over as the door is opened once more. He pauses, looking to Jason and then to the ticket in his hand. "Enjoy the party as well," he states to the tuxedo'd man and then nods to the arriving Laxmi, "Thank you for your part in the album." Well, it seems the staff was versed in just WHO was in the album. "The studio reps are upstairs."

Up on the second level, a few persons from Shaw Studios are situated. For the sake of charity, Mike has switched over to his Nick Drago persona and his attire has been adjusted for that. Nick's attire is simple, but pristine. His long brown hair is pulled back to a neat pony tail and the red color of the partially unbuttoned dress shirt pops in contrast to the black dress pants. Blue eyes peer to the dance floor below, smiling contentedly to the amount of people who have shown up. This bodes well for tonight's objective. A slight glimmer of white does draw his attention, the dress reflecting the lights of the club so well. But the face paired with it does cause for his smile to strengthen a bit. What a small world it is.

The owner of Shaw studios, Wade Shaw is indeed making his presence known and demonstrating that he too knows how to wear clothes attire that doesn't involve jeans and a t-shirt, or some high end Dread Pirate Roberts costume. Today. The short haired blond is wearing dress pants and a nice blue dress shirt.

Accompanying him in a very lovely green dress is one Tessa O'Kane. While Wade may be no slouch in the appearances department, the long haired blonde woman is definitely the more striking of the two. Also when she speaks, the Irish accent to her voice betrays her as the female side of the Irish duet that made it onto the album.

Wade peeks over the railing to the crowd below. "This is a promising sight." He admits, grinning to Nick. "Now don't spend all night up here. Remember to have fun. I sure as hell am after we get Boston Zombie and Random Acts checked in."

Alison Blaire has posed:
And accompanying the studio reps and Nick, is The Dazzler. Normally known for a public persona whose costumes are just as extravagant and glittering as the effects of her mutant powers, the rising pop star has chosen something a little more traditional for the occasion: An emerald-green floor-sweeping reformation dress. Her blond hair arranged in a tasteful updo, she is wearing a pair of small iridescent earrings, the only piece of jewelry chosen, banking on the side of Patrician elegance, since the stars of the events are the charities themselves. The performers are the conveyance by which they will be benefited.

"Looks like great start for the evening," Alison says, smiling at Nick, "Ready to rock? I promise not to make any wagers tonight." But there's something in the way she says that, that isn't very convincing.

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Ka'shira nods to the doorman as she and Michael step within. Briefly, fingertips brush the back of her date/body guard's hand and offers a smile of darkly painted lips. The gesture and expression further confuse his position in this evening's affairs, date or hired muscle? She glances briefly over her shoulder to watch those that enter behind them, before stepping out of the way.
     The tall woman, made even taller by those stilts she calls high heeled fashion, starts to cross the dance floor. She pauses briefly to lean towards, and speak at an audible pitch to Michael. "I'm unsure of the protocol. Do we mingle first, or get a drink?"

Anthony Druid has posed:
Anthony Druid turns his head slightly as Jason Blood arrives. He and the demon-host aren't personally acquainted, but the inherent power contained within that matrix of man and monster certainly sets off certain alarms in Druid's situational awareness. Still, there's no reason to overreact. The infernal is to be feared, yes, but not all those who bear its mark do so willingly - or with ill intent. Anthony does try to think the best of people.

He steps to the edge of the catwalk and raises a glass of Scotch to the partygoers below, "Yes, indulge yourselves, children! Revelry and joy! A candle was made to burn bright!"

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "Either's fine." Michael's voice is low in her ear as he bends to reply to his tall companion - he doesn't recognize anyone as his eyes sweep across the floor, save for Laxmi, much less the musical talent. Music isn't his thing. "Come on, I'll get you something." Assuming she crosses with him, it's off to the bar for something for the lady.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    As Michael's gaze rakes across her, the pair make a moment's eye-contact, causing Laxmi's smile to widen as she offers a nod of acknowledgement. Rather than approach, however, she makes her way up to the balcony where many of the other musicians wait, hands going tot he skirt of her lehenga to lift it and keep it out from under foot.
    "Namaste, how lovely to see you all again," she greets them, her hands pressing together for a moment in a traditional greeting as she gives a nod of her head. "Mister Shaw, always a pleasure. And Miss Blaire - such a delight to see you again." And nod is also given to Nick as adds, "Mister Drago, I hope you're well."

Jason Blood has posed:
Jason Blood steps over to the bar. If he noted Druid's reaction he lets it slide. Plenty of people note something off about him. If he is another mage, well he didn't open fire. At the bar he request a martini.

"We have apple flavored vodka, chocolate, black cherry..." the bartender says brightly. Jason motions for him to stop.

"A martini, no more, no less. Kudos on your knowledge of potables and eagerness to please." The martini in hand he surveys the crowd.

Felicia Hardy has posed:
    Skirting the fringes of the dance floor, Felicia, wearing her blonde wig this time, sashays slowly around the place, her hips bumping out with the beat of the music the DJ plays. She wears an easy enough smile, choosing a simple deep red shade for her lipstick that compliments her features perfectly.

    The thief remains on the 'first' floor, not wanting to go upstairs and tempt herself with things her current squeeze may not be comfortable with, so why risk it?

    Felicia steps up to the bar beside Jason and presses her arms into the side as she leans onto the top, "Heya bartend, make me a white russian with whipped cream vodka if you got it." Felicia says playfully, kicking her leg out behind her at the knee. Her white Jessica Rabbit dress moving easily with her motion, even though once past her knee it looks like she had to be poured into it like a large vase.

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     As Michael's attention briefly alights upon someone behind her, Ka'shira turns to glance at who. However, she spots only the fleeting flash of brightly colored lehenga as Laxmi retreats to join the other talent. So instead, she hurries to follow Michael towards the bar.
     As they arrive, Jason's amid his rhyming meter, placing his order. She lets Michael do the ordering, as her knowledge of Earth drinks remains limited. Instead, Ka'shira leans her back against the bar, and people watches. When Felicia joins the bar crowd, Ka'shira leans towards her. "Beautiful gown." She compliments the well-endowed woman and her sparkly dress.

Michael Hannigan has posed:
Wade narrows his eyes at the mentions of wagers and eyes the two musicians, "No Running."

Warning heard, Nick turns his head to look back over to Dazzler, giving a bit of a chuckle, "Probably a good idea. Also I'm glad we didn't bet on who'd turn up to this looking better. You got me beat hands down."

"Get moving you two." Wade states, gesturing towards the stairwell while glancing down some more to the floor below. "Have fun... Oh and thank people for their donations as well while you're at it."

Seeing Laxmi approach, Nick pauses to smile to the other musician. "I'm glad you could make it. I'm doing well and hope that you are as well?"

Wade looks to Laxmi, "Pleasure's all mine, Miss Mallick and I hope you enjoy your time here." He nods to the other blonde in a green dress that is next to him, "You have met Nick and Dazzler, but I'm not sure if you met Tessa O'Kane yet. She loaned her voice out for one of the duets on the album." He glances behind Laxmi curiously, "Do you know if the rest of your group will be making it this evening?"

Anthony Druid has posed:
Anthony Druid passes not far away from Nick and catches a hint of the dreamlike essence of the young man, turning his head and observing his aura with interest. He's glad to know he's not the only practicioner of the mystic arts in the place - especially if the aforementioned demonic presence has ill intent. Still, this seems an unlikely place for a devilish interlude. To what purpose would it serve? This doesn't seem the kind of music prone to have Satanic messages hidden in the reversal of its lyrics.

Or maybe it was. Who knows what kind of music Satan likes? Rumor had it his infernal majesty was fond of the fiddle.

He meets Nick's eyes and gives a knowing nod of acknowledgement, but doesn't call him out in public, even as he drifts downwards to get a closer look at Jason Blood and his whiff of brimstone.

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Once the bartender's attention ends up on him, Michael makes the promised order. "Two whiskeys, neat," he says, tapping two fingers on the bartop. "Top of the shelf as you can get." He's reaching for his wallet, expecting an upcharge - yes, even at an industry party. Michael's been to a lot of clubs in the decades he's lived on this planet, and the top shelf has almost /always/ had an upcharge, even when it's open bar.

    The sound of Ka'shira's voice draws his attention a moment, and Michael looks sidelong in her direction. Notes the lady built like a vase, files her face and measurements away. Always taking notes, our lad. Even on vacation time.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"Nick, let's be frank, you'd look silly in a reformation dress. You don't have the legs for it," Alison says playfully, "You need to do a lot more running. Somewhere else, decidedly not here at this event," she adds for Wade's benefit. "Although the handrail looks like a wonderful test of balance-"

Before the wager has formed in her mind, her train of thought is interrupted by the arrival of Laxmi. Alison returns the greeting, and comments, "Yes, it's so good you could make it. Your lehenga" is simply stunning," she observes. Of course, she has an eye for designs that capture the light, it comes by second nature. After Wade makes the introductions, she adds"We were about to make the rounds downstairs," she gestures to the stairs with her head, by way of invitation.

Felicia Hardy has posed:
    Felicia's ears perk and she turns to press her back against the bar top, elbows resting on it as she waits for her cocktail to be made, and her attention lands on Ka'shira with a raise of her eyebrow towards the alien woman.

    "I appreciate that." Felicia says with a smile, showing a few whitened teeth, looking comfortable and open as she looks Ka'shira up and down and the other eyebrow lifts this time. "I LOVE you're outfit, Oh my god. It's wonderful." Felicia says, wanting to reach out and help adjust the lapel on the slightly taller woman's tuxedo jacket, but she pulls her hand back before actually touching. "I love your style!"

    The drink she ordered is set down before her and Felicia holds the crystal in one hand and takes a sip before reaching into the glass and pulling out the cherry and placing the fruit in her mouth, popping the stem off easily and simply holding onto it as she takes another sip.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Miss O'Kane, what a pleasure to make your acquaintance," Laxmi replies - pressing her palms together, and nodding her head towards the woman. Not one for hand shakes with strangers terribly often, given her upbringing, the traditional greeting often saved her and others from awkward moments. "I truly enjoyed listening to your performance on the record - I'll be sure to look up your other works."
    As for the rest of her group, she gestures below as she adds, "I saw Sal in the crowd already," he'd already seemed to have a bit of eye-candy attached to his arm, "and I'm sure the rest will make themselves known soon enough. Should I send him up?"
    She waits for Mister Wade's response, before her attention shifts to Alison, her smile broadening at the compliment. "Oh, I'm glad you like it. I'd ordered just for this occassion, actually. A bit of a splurge on my part..." She smoothes out some of the folds of the skirt before she adds, "I would love to join you, thank you."

Jason Blood has posed:
Jason Blood turns to get a good look at his bar mates.

Etrigan stops his bitching.

"You ladies look especially... divine tonight. I feared I was overdressed for the venue." He brushes at his tux before continuing. "However, the question is moot. No one will notice me tonight." He gives a small bow at the waist. "I am Jason Blood, from Gotham City."

Michael Hannigan has posed:
Feeling like someone's looking towards him, Nick's head turns. Seeing Druid look at him, he ends up mirroring the curious look that Wade had sported earlier. And then the nod came in. A brow raises as he watches Anthony walk off. Why did that look remind him of a certain invisible lawnmower using sorceror?

Tessa follows suit, taking the cue from Laxmi to instead bow her head towards her. "Thank you. And it was a pleasure to listen to your track as well."

Wade smiles, "Thank you for letting me know. I'll consider them checked in being that you came up here. I'll adjust my focus to tracking down Boston Zombie instead. Don't let me keep you guys from having fun. Go on!" Tessa smiles, looking over to Wade.

Nick comes out of his moment of contemplating Anthony to look back over to Laxmi and Dazzler. The expectant look on Wade's face is noted even without looking towards him. "I think I spotted Damian wandering around down there. Maybe we should try looking for him."

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Ka'shira continues her brief exchange with Felicia. She smiles, pleased with the praise. "Thank you, I.." She starts and then gets another look at Felicia's face. "Actually, I think I saw you at the Halloween festivities, at the Hellfire Club. We didn't have the opportunity to meet then, however."
     At about that point, Jason compliments them both and makes his introductions. "A pleasure Mr. Blood, and on the contrary, you look quite debonaire. I'm Ka'shira Raptorethi, of ah, New Yor City at present, and then is my escort, Michael Erikson, of the same." She gestures to her date, as he awaits their drinks.

Michael Erickson has posed:
    The female of the species is deadlier than the male -- but Blood's charm gets Michael's attention. He eyes the man from the margins, receiving two glasses of Lagavulin from the bartender and sliding one oh-so-subtly next to him for Ka'shira to sample. "It's strong," he tells her, leaning in to murmur. "Like kal-talan. Same general social image, too."

    Oh. He's being introduced. "Good evening," he offers to the other two, but says nothing more. Not, you know. The most people of persons.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"Looks like we have the first target- I mean Patron," Alison says with a touch of humor, "Then let us lead the charge before Wade uses a trebuchet to physically send us flying down below." As Laxmi accepts their invitation, she proceeds to take point and move to the stairs. One hand gently gathering her dress to avoid a stunt fall down the stairs and one hand on the banister, she proceeds to guide the group downwards.

"Nick and I have a tendency to challenge each other," She tells Laxmi, "You probably heard about Wade grounding us from lunch because we decided to stage a footrace down the studio hallway. You don't need to worry- you won't get drawn into them, although you might be asked to judge a winner." She winks at the foot of the stairs. "Well, where would Mister Wayne be, Nick?" she glances back, and then points towards the bar. "That way? If he's not there, we can at least greet others."

Damian Wayne has posed:
     Damian had been on the dance floor, cutting a rug like the rest of the crowd. Head bobbing to the rhythm, and holding his fist close to his chest while he grooves, holding a mocktail in his other hand.

Jason Blood has posed:
Jason Blood offers a hand to Michael and says, "A pleasure, Mr. Erickson. I don't know about you, but I am a little eager for the finger food to come out. I missed my dinner this evening. Work called." He gives a nod. "But I don't desire to intrude on a couple's evening. There is certainly enough to get involved with here."

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "I'm not a terribly competitive person, myself," Laxmi remarks - one hand likewise resting on the banister, though she seems far less concerned about her skirt ending up underfoot on her way down the stairs than she had been on her way up. "But I'm happy enough to serve as judge - as long as the competitions are suitably harmless." After all, it's a charity event, and it would hardly do to cause embarrassment or scandal during the evening.
    "We're meeting one of the Waynes?" she asks in mild surprise. "Is Bruce Wayne himself here tonight?" Apparently she hadn't understood the reference to 'Damian' - or simply had missed it.

Felicia Hardy has posed:
    Felicia, ever the heart breaker and the mover and shaker she wants to be, compliments Ka'shira once more with a nod, "I believe ... yes. Your height is hard to hide." Felicia says with a wiggle of her eyebrows, and then Jason is speaking to the two of them.

    Then the word she isn't exactly keen on hearing at the moment. She doesn't physically react to it, she wouldn't be a good thief if words could rattle her cage, "Nice to meet you Jason, isn't Gotham that s**thole of a place with ... that outrageous vigilante?" Felicia asks before saying her own name, "Felicia, by the way." She says loudly enough to be heard over the music and stealing a sip of her drink.

Michael Hannigan has posed:
"Not Bruce Wayne." Nick answers Laxmi, following after the Dazzling songstress of Pop "But his son Damian. He's more high school age so he's probably on the dance floor..." As they start going down the steps, he uses the height to scan over the crowd. "I think he was wearing a green shirt and a black vest. But with the lighting in the club, I could be wrong."

There is a slight rise of excitement from some of the regular attendees as six people make their way into the club. While not wearing their trademark masks, the five members of Boston Zombie are still somewhat identifiable by their choice in shirts for their *ahem* dress up attire. Somewhat emulating the designs of the stage masks, Rossy 'Glossy' Winters chose to wear a silver dress shirt. Davian 'Die' Winters had a Dice theme Tee to his. Jeremy 'Jaws' Smith had a T-shirt with a logo of a smiley face with a distortedly large grin on his shirt and Aaron 'Stitches' Harris- Well, the quietest member of the group had the loudest shirt. It looked like the Frankenstein?s monster of dress shirts with very visible stitch work holding together various brightly colored fabrics.

Jean-Charles 'Blue' Baloo is likely the most conservatively dressed of the five band members. His shirt was a simple blue with a small golden Flur-de-lis stitched just over the heart. That could likely be blamed on the well dressed Brunette standing next to him with her hand resting upon his arm. Despite what his bandmates say, Carole Baloo is still going to have a little bit of sway over what her husband wears if she's expected to come along.

"Oh thank God." Wade mutters, looking towards the source of the excitement, looking to Tessa, "Soon. We dance."

Jason Blood has posed:
Jason Blood chuckles. "Gotham City has many features to recommend it: museums, a fine orchestra, a top University, if you look beyond that outrageous vigilante." He takes a deep sip of his own drink and smiles before putting a ten in the tip jar." He signals for another martini. He gestures to Felicia. "You decided to arrive unaccompanied, Felicia? Surely that would be _your_ choice."

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Ka'shira takes her glass in hand and nods at Michael's quiet warning. Even forewarned the slow subtle burn catches her a bit off guard. She clears her throat but nods at her escort. "It's good, thank you."
     Wheen Jason remarks about food, Ka'shira laughed and shook her head. The hand not holding her whisky glass dropped to her hip. "I don't think I should eat, wearing these. I might pop a seam."
     She continues to smile as Felicia makes the final introduction. "A pleasure." She, however, has nothing to add about the topic of Gotham. Instead, Shira looks around as the arrival of celebrities draws a rise in excitement from the other club-goers.

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "Oh, don't mind me, Mr. Blood," says Michael after taking the man's hand and giving it a firm shake. "I'm just here to make sure she gets home intact." He goes to take up his whiskey, then, and salutes him with the glass. "I'm just going to stand back here and look vaguely threatening."

Alison Blaire has posed:
"I think I see him," Alison says to Nick, and the smile that is a mark of mischief appears on her lips as she sees the teenager dancing his heart out. "Allow me. You can move on to the others and I'll catch up to you," she says to Nick and Laxmi, and strides across the dance floor taking a very specific route- one that will leave him out of the young Wayne's sight until-

There is a brief sparkle as the singer darts across Damian's field of vision, her green dress following her movements as she settles in front of him to, as the saying goes, cut a rug.

"Good evening, Mister Wayne," Alison Blaire says, swaying to the music with a natural grace, "So good that you could join us tonight."

Felicia Hardy has posed:
    Felicia gives Jason a bit of a look with fire in her eyes. "And I plan on leaving unaccompanied as well." She winks and lifts up her glass in a toast and takes a sip before she turns to face the bar and reaches over to put the cherry stem down on the other side and then turns to begin to walk away. "Pleasure meeting you all as well." She smiles to Shira and moves away towards the dance floor.

    Seems a few sips was enough to convince her to get out there and shake shake shake. Her hand lifts up her side, and then up into her hair and then lets it fall, the blond waves bouncing joyously as she moves and shuffles her way deeper into the floor, holding her drink close to her chest and shimmying her hips, getting lost in the music.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Ah - of course," Laxmi agree as the matter is clarified. "I suppose that makes more sense." Her gaze follows Alison as the woman makes her way towards the dance floor - remaining out of the young heir's line of sight. "Is she honestly planning on ambushing him?" she asks with some amusement, giving a slight shake of her head.
    She shifts her attention back to Nick before adding, "Well, should we go get some drinks?"

Damian Wayne has posed:
     Damian's green eyes find Alison Blaire in his field of vision, and keeps dancing. "Dazzler, good evening."

  He didn't seem at all like the strung up kid often shown in the tabloids, but then again this was a private party. "You make quite the entrance." He takes a drink from his glass before continuing dancing. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Ka'shira's attention lingers briefly on Jason and Felicia at their exchange and then nods politely as both leave in opposite directions. Dark-eyed gaze shifts to Michael, to see if her taciturn companion has found humor in the situation, as she did. "I think we have mingled and had drinks. I'm a bit puzzled over the dancing ritual, however." She confesses to the man.

Michael Hannigan has posed:
As Alison spots the Damian and basically calls dibs on the Billionaire's son, he gives a bit of an amused smile. For several reasons. Laxmi's question gets a nod in response, "She does like to live up to the Dazzler title." He looks back to Laxmi, "I think he'll like her saying hi. Even if he doesn't have the autograph shirt on him."

Looking over to the bar and the persons gathered there, he nods to the suggestion. "That sounds like a great idea. We can greet some of the ticket buyers while we're at it too." A mix of business and fun isn't a bad thing right?

As the pair head towards the bar. Nick glances over to the group coming in, smile widening. "Well, looks like Boston Zombie made it. Wade will be happy."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    As per his promise, Michael leans against the bar and looms quietly - that is, until Ka'shira speaks up again. "Don't look at me," he tells his elegant companion. "I don't dance." But he /does/ gesture at the floor with his glass. "Equal parts social event and potential mating ritual. It's not /that/ different from sparring, just you writhe and sweat and produce sexual chemicals. No punching unless there's trouble." Michael pauses to take a sip, then offers, "Or unless it's a really good date, I suppose." He is not, from his tone, at all serious on that one. Can't misinform his charge!

Madelyne Pryor has posed:
Madelyne Pryor was bored on this friday night. She was actually on her way back to the west side to catch the C train back home, but it was actually stunningly easy for someone who appeared as urban and as lovely as her to simply strut past the doorman and make her way onto the dance floor. On the edge of her telepathic consciousness was the signatures of all sorts of powered people, all a blur. But it was worth checking out. Of course she wears her shades and her body language was such that no one would confuse her with her clone twin. She's at the bar, sipping a Remy Red, and people watching.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"A generous donation towards a worthy cause always merits the occasion, I think," Dazzler responds. She doesn't make any dramatic dance gestures- she is not attired for it, after all. There are very small coruscating lights that accompany her movements. A front-row treat for a patron, one might say- the charity merits it. "I hope you are enjoying your time so far. Have you said hello to Nick yet?"

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "We wouldn't want Mister Wade unhappy," Laxmi agrees as she accompanies Nick to the bar, placing an order for a mocktail, which arrives lightly fixing from carbonation, with a twirl of expertly shaped lime peel sitting in the glass. The dark haired, dusky skinned woman takes a sip, as she glances at those present - her gaze lingering on Madelyne with a puzzled expression on her features. The woman's striking resemblence to the head mistress of the school at which she teaches does not pass her notice. How... strange.

Felicia Hardy has posed:
    Felicia continues to dance to the music, drink in hand, and her hair bobbing with the motions, but she makes sure not to linger too long in one spot, and to avoid the Wayne boy. He's going to draw attention for sure. Attention she doesn't exactly want to invite currently as she still hasn't handed over the gem she stole several weeks ago.

    Felicia's face does a perfect job masking these thoughts, but she moves around the edge of the floor and making her way back towards the bar. White Russians tend to require refills now and then.

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Ka'shira still sits at the bar with Michael. Holding her glass of whiskey, she takes the occasional drink, while listening to her companion. She nods from time to time, though mostly she watches the dancing. "Part social and part courting?" She repeats. She can't help but laugh at his observed comparison to sparring. "Then perhaps you haven't had the right sparring partner." She teases.
     She glances aside to those joining and leaving the bar area. The young woman extends a polite smile to Laxmi and Nick, recognizing the bright flash of the former's garments. She then returns to her whiskey. The bar is a good place to people watch, obviously.

Michael Hannigan has posed:
The members of Boston Zombie head towards the stairs, making their way to the upper level, likely to the excited cheers of Wade. Well, maybe not LIKELY cheers, but Nick still imagines that to be the case. Throw in a bit of confetti throwing to that mental image and- The rockstar chuckles.

He puts in an order for a Guinness and while that sets, he looks over towards Ka'Shira and Michael nearby. The smile offered to them seems cue enough. He gives them a nod of greeting. "I hope you two are having fun. Thank you for attending."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    Michael smirks at Ka'shira's words, shaking his head faintly. "That's my experience," he tells her, and smirks. "Perhaps not. But I'm a professional, ma'am." Then, after a pause and another sip, he adds, "You should go out and introduce yourself. I'll be here at the bar, keeping a look out. No worries."

Damian Wayne has posed:
     Damian smirks, before answering Dazzler. "I have not yet. But I should." He takes a moment before giving a nod to Dazzler on the dance floor to make it over and around the bar, searching for Nick.

  He didn't need to be sneaky in a loud club, just cognizant of where Nick was looking until he was close behind the rockstar. "Anyone ever say you look like Nick Drago?"

Felicia Hardy has posed:
    Putting her glass down on the bar, and having made a minimal impression on the event as a whole. There might be a few pics of her in the background of some people's instagrams, but enough to make sure the Black Cat wont be scene tonight, and for P-G to maybe relax a little about that, but Felicia is exhausted with the whole crowd thing.

    Felicia gives a nod up stairs, figuring Nick was still up there, but she did her part, she donated to charity as Felicia and will be getting a decent tax write off for this year and as such, she'll be making an exit and maybe try and catch Power Girl out doing something. Not likely though. That woman is too fast.

Madelyne Pryor has posed:
Madelyne Pryor eyes the newcomers all crowding to the bar. *Of course* she winds up in the middle of things. She lowers her shades to take a closer look at who joins her at the bar, listening for any conversation.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    Laxmi follows Nick's gaze to Michael and Ka'shira before remarking, "Oh, Nick, allow me to introduce Mister Erickson. We both have been working with students at the same school," she explains, giving the man a polite nod. "I'm not familiar with his companion, however. Namaste," she greets them both - before turning her attention to the surprise appearance of Damian behind them. "Oh - Mister Wayne, isn't it? Namaste," she greets him as well, offering a nod of her head once more. She doesn't, however, press her palms together, as she keeps her drink in her hand for the moment.

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Ka'shira continues to grin, but she does nod at Michael's advice. "I should," She agrees. However, the timing is impeccable as some of those she ought to mingle with join them at the bar.
     Instead of pushing away from the bar, she remains in place, turning her smile to Nick. Even though he's unfamiliar his salutations marked him as host or otherwise a coordinator of some sort. "Yes thank you. I'm happy we were able to participate, for such worthy causes." Dark gaze shifts past Nick to the young heir behind him. Once Laxmi starts the introductions though, she's quick to supply her own. "Ka'shira Raptorethi." She says with a smile.
     Ka'shira spots Felicia just as the other woman returns her glass. She's about to speak, but the other woman is too fast. Instead, she simply lifts a hand in farewell, if the gesture is caught.

Michael Hannigan has posed:
As Dazzler dances, her phone ends up doing two things ringing with the caller ID indicating it to be Wade Shaw's number. But it stops mid-ring. A few moments later it instead buzzes with a text message notification. ' You have a minute upstairs? '

Nick looks over to Laxmi as she calls for his attention and then looks over to Michael. "Ah, a pleasure, Mr. Erickson." He nods to Shira, taking in the offered name, "And you as well, Miss Raptorethi. If you're interested in learning more about the shelters that are benefitting from this event, or need a nice quiet space for a few moments, there is a space upstairs where several representatives are located. It too has a bar. "

Hearing Damian's voice from behind him, Nick tilts his head down, grin strengthening. "You know, I get that a lot." He responds, turning around to look to the youngest Wayne, "Hi Damian. Great seeing you here. Are you having fun?"

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "Good evening," Michael offers to Nick as he's drawn over, nodding to Laxmi in turn as well. "I'm just here with Miss Raptorethi. To keep her safe." There's a slight smirk in his tone that does not show on his features.

Damian Wayne has posed:
     "As-salamu alaykum." He greets Lakshmi in the same manner as his birthplace. Just without a dagger. A similar bow to Lakshmi before offering the same to Ka'shira. "Damian Wayne."

  "Indeed, just needed to grab another drink before going out again. Congratulations on the album!" Damian adds before raising his almost empty glass to all, "L'chaim." drinking the last of the mocktail and moseying over to the bar.

Ka'shira Raptorethi has posed:
     Ka'shira spots the redhead on the edge of her periphery, doing some of her own people watching. Ka'shira smiles and tips her head politely to Madelyne. She glances briefly at her fancy watch and then comments to Michael. "Why don't we see if you can show me some of this, dancing." She suggests, finally pushing away from the bar.
     Before leaving though, she does say to Nick, "Oh yes thank you, we should check that out as well. A pleasure to meet you." She intones that last portion to the rest gathered by the bar, and starts to saunter off.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "Wa-Alaikum-Salaam," Laxmi responds with a briefly widening smile. If the was being honest, it was the only Arabic she knew. She nods to the man as he quickly moves on again, allowing her gaze to return to Michael. "Well, she couldn't ask for anyone better at the task, I'm certain. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance tonight, Ms. Raptorethi," she says in a warm tone, taking a sip of her drink.
    "I'm particularly fond of Hope House, which is located in the Bushwick neighborhood. I've volunteered there on a few occassions - they're doing amazing work with both the youth and the homeless of the neighborhood."

Michael Erickson has posed:
    "Right, then. Good evening, everyone." And with that, Michael follows his charge, pausing to slam back his whiskey before he goes. Man needs fuel, apparently, for this duty!

Madelyne Pryor has posed:
Madelyne Pryor checks out who is left. It seems that some people are heading out. Drink in hand, she does a circuit of the dance floor. Is there a band on the stage at the moment?

Michael Hannigan has posed:
"Drink responsibly." Nick cautions, giving a serious look to Damian- For all of five seconds before the smile returns. "There's a lot of sugar in those mocktails." With the youngest of the group getting his non alcoholic beverage of choice, he looks to the counter as his beer is set before him.

Hearing Michael's explanation to who he is to Miss Raptorethi, Nick gives a nod. "Well, I wouldn't use 'just' to describe such a task. There is much value in both good security and protective friends." Seeing Shira get up to take Michael for dancing, he nods to the two, "Have fun."

He turns back towards Laxmi as she brings up Hope House. "I have heard of Hope House and I'm very glad that it was added to the list by both you and Dazzler. I have been volunteering with Saint Nicholas's before Hope House existed and being that shelter is on a similar mission it seemed appropriate to include them as well. I hope with the representatives kind of situated next to each other upstairs they might be able to form more of an alliance of sorts between each other."

The band hasn't come on yet but the DJ is STILL throwing out amazing beats to dance to.

Laxmi Mallick has posed:
    "That would be nice," Laxmi agrees. "I imagine they could do joint fundraisers - or even run events for their clients in conjunction that could help save costs in the long run..." Buying in bulk is always key, isn't it? She swirls her drink idly before taking another sip, letting her gaze drag over the party, and the dance scene. "It's lovely to see so many willing to give to charity. I'm glad this event was put together."

Michael Hannigan has posed:
Yes. Pooling resources could help a lot." Nick agrees, "Say one shelter for some reason gets a LOT of one type of donation and the other gets a lot of something else. Be nice to kind of even it out based off of who needs what. " He glances over to the party, "It is a very nice turn out." He agrees, glancing back to Laxmi, "I hope you will be interested in participating in next years."



With the last song finishing up, there is a moment of quiet as a band starts to come on stage. A shaggy black haired man with a soul patch on his chin wearing a green T-shirt and torn blue jeans walks up to the microphone. Hands resting upon the red and black guitar in front of him. He looks back to the bald headed drummer and then to the two guitarists to either side of him. One a red-head in a blue tee and the other sporting long curly brown hair abd seeming pretty cold with the open black vest exposing a bare chest. Does he not realize it's November? Either way, they seem ready. The man in center leans forward. "We're Mystik Spiral," he addresses the crowd in a low lazy voice. He pauses for a moment , "but we're thinking of changing the name. Thanks for coming out. We call this one, 'The dog's in the trash again.' "



Nick arches a brow at the introduction and sighs, picking up his beer. "...They need to work on their song titles." Oh sweet beer take him away.



"One Two Three Four!-"