Amongst The Stars

Parties in the Ninetails Dominion are of various styles. This one in particular, is a costume party of sorts, in the midst of a rich Cait Sith's mansion within Dun Loireag. The one running the party is a Kitsune with black hair and renown for her beauty, slowly smoking a Kiseru - seated upon a mass of pillows, and some of her own massive tails, and being attended to by various humans and smaller Were Fangs. There's a 'fog' in the air, lit by soft red crystals throughout the large marble halls, which seems to be originating from her Kiseru.

There's various tables set along the sides of the place with foot upon it, and a wide variety of attendees. Notably, there's a lot of hubub talking about the recent Palace Lands discovery. A few economists in the corner talking about the impact this might have on trade. While there's a few others talking about the Arena situation, while making motions at their prized gladiators.

The adventurers are not alone. There's quite a bit of Moon Tree attendance as well at the moment - Adventurers looking to make a name for themselves. There's a lot of people here for Networking. But for those who are socially awkward, or do not understand how to interact and make themselves known in a situation like this, this party will be a very different kind of arena.

*Clack Clack* The sound of heels on the floor is heard as Allynna walks in, dressed as formaly as she can be, wearing a silk haori over a Kimono in reds and greens with a white silken Hakama skirt, her face is done up with makeup, well, behind a white stylized Bun-bun face mask that compliments her long ears. On her fingers are an array of gold and silver rings, some with signets on them, others purly for show, and lasty a silken fan rests in her left hand.

Offering a formal bow to the noble who is hosting said party, Allynna makes an offer of the cherry wine that was brought as a gift to the host. "Handmade Cherry wine Milady, given with the upmost and purest respect." She says, her usual light chery voice toned down an octive as she speaks with a very business like nature.

    Merek is not sure what to come as, so he takes the time to put on what looks like basic attire to make him look like a cat were fang. That will be well enough, he then follows along with the party, taking his time to look about the place. There are inclines offered to nobles, while he tries to work with what he can to offer respect.

Yeowang is entirely used to this sort of party, but hasn't been to one like it in the game, and she wasn't entirely sure they existed, or if they did, if they were accessible by players. She's quite glad to see they are, though, as this is exactly the sort of environment she's accustomed to. If there's one drawback, it's that she doesn't have the social niceties nailed down for this bunch of high society in this game, which in her experience is more closely related to what the game designers thought than what it actually was. And then again, her experiences were mainly in Korea, her experience in Japanese high society is slight.

On the other hand, she's got merchant chops, and runs the Ninetails Bank, and almost certainly knows at least a few of these fine Landers through that. Some of them owe her money, and some she pays, and that circulation is what makes the world go 'round. She probably gravitates to the economists speculating on trade, because that's an interest of hers as well, though she's got an ear open for arena talk, because kicking people in the face is a kind of hobby.

Costume-wise, she's done something sort of basic with a prom-like gown modified by a maniac with a bedazzler; the theme is roughly Disney Princess, with a faux tiara (or is it real?) and a domino mask. Her long hair is ornately styled and piled atop her head in a way Marie Antoinette would approve of.

One of the downsides of being a head Guild officer was getting invited to big stuffy noble parties... but it did have the upside of such parties typically having a large variety of high quality foods, which was enough to make it worthwhile for Shiruba. As long as she had something to snack on occasionally she would be fine. And she does enjoy talking about explorations at least, so she's got conversation covered when anyone asks about the Palace Lands, thanks to the amount of time she has spent on the expedition there.

As for costume, she's wearing one of the fancier social gathering dresses Gwen has made for her, and has even allowed someone to style up her usually unkempt hair to be neat and tidy. It's rounded off with a several scrolls tucked in her belt, a thick book tucked under an arm, and a 'mask' that's a pair exaggerated horn-rim glasses.... So she's either a scholar, or a librarian... or would that be the same thing? Well it's enough of an opposite from her usual scruffy wilderness ranger appearance to count as a costume!

As is she sidles up next to Yeowang, smiling a bit. "Your business management efforts are going places if you're getting invited to the high society parties."

    Rizadoman enters into the party wearing much more formal wear then normal, an equivalenof of what one might wear to the opera, cape included and on his face is an oddly shaped white opera mask that obviously makes him some phantom lizard of the opera. Stepping through the party he can't help but think that one day he will have to Tsukasa in terms of this opportunity that she has allowed him to have by being in a leadership role. Retrieving from his inventory a set of green tea leaves he approaches the host, " Thank you for having me and my fellow alliance members under your roof today. I would like to give you this gift of tea leaves from the Thor Kingdom. " Bowing and offering up the gift , once it is accepted or brushed aside he would move on to begin to mingle.

There is something to be said for being an armor smith. You just didn't run out of pieces that looked good, but quite frankly weren't high in stats in the first place. That had lead to Giganpor coming as something... a bit interesting. Somehow a duster had made an appearance, and his face was masked by a rather fancy looking leather ensemble with golden thread along it giving it a rather odd appearance.

The only real sign that it was Giganpor was the Shiny Swarm relic, in it's scarf form thrown over one shoulder. The rest of the outfit was exceeding black leather with a simple pauldron on one shoulder, fitted perfectly to him. His usual buckler was stashed in his inventory. The black boots fitted over the pants, and red belt. It was a show of his skills at being an armorer that he could indeed make an outfit that didn't have to be full on plate, and very much was still functional as a leather costume that suited his rather tall frame.

Add in that he's in his were-fang form and the tusks show is perhaps the only other indication of Giganpor being there to party. Another hint is faux gun-like objects on either hip, showing that he had managed to make a gunslinger outfit. At least he didn't try to make a hat fit the wild mane on his head. That might be an impossible feature for anyone.

With that, he has started to co-mingle about. However, notably he's using his height to look around for a moment or two. Perhaps in question, but also because he is at least looking for those that were present for some of the negotiations to thank and talk more with. Their views throughout his recent Mood were something that he was interested in. Except that one guy who wanted his kid to be a naval admiral. He planned to avoid that one.

The lady of the evening, dressed in long flowing Kimono, is the only one not bearing a mask or costume to this party. She lifts a finger to one of her attendants as Allynna approaches. She doesn't speak, instead taking a moment to puff on her long smoking device, and considers the Adventurer before herself.

The attendant takes the drink, followed by a moment of inspection, and then a nod. This earns Allynna a smile from her. "Alcohol. A challenging gift to give, when you are in the land of Lustra." She remarks to Allynna. "We shall see how it stands up." Followed by the attendant taking away the bottle for the time being.

She then motions her lithe fingers to Allynna, suggesting she join the party and all the members within.

In the meantime, Merek is getting some scornful looks, as he seems to just idly wander about the place, just nodding his head at some nobles. None of which recognize him and are starting to make confused and exasperbated motions at the one in basic attire and vague cat Were Fang uniform.

Yeowang is greeted by the Economists in the corner, one of them even bowing slightly towards her. He asks her what she thinks the effect will be on the price of things, such as the near-monopoly they have on food, if the Land of Dragons began to export their food supplies to them. Yeowang is aware what a delicate balance there is between the Kingdoms in this region. None of them are fully self-sufficient. And as Shiruba nudges in with Yeowang, the economists immediately press on her for the same kind of questions.

Back with Rizadoman, the attendant takes the green leaves and seems to turn them over a few times, before recognizing what his is. A nod to his lady, and the lady of the Evening notes; "Thank you very much, esteemed Rizadoman." The woman answers the Lizardman. "Please." She then notes, and motions for him to indeed mingle.

After some attempts, Giganpor manages to find someone to speak to. An 'Artiste' who is willing to talk on the topic of Moonlight. Remarking on the best artists actually coming from Fort Ouph. And that they should be glad to have someone such as him, from Fort Ouph, to come here to Dun Loireag.

The party continues to ebb and glow, until there's this subtle disturbance near the front. As a woman in partial robes stands in front of the head of the party. Amongst the constant chatter, it is hard to read what is going on, but the beautiful Fox Cait Sith rises up, and steps aside, allowing the robed woman to take her place. Which causes an immediate sense of murmuring and confused attendants.

    Merek doesn't pay a lot of his attention to the nobles, at least when it comes to their looks. Though he does begin to offer a little bowing, and tries to look a little more proper. That said, when he notices the thing that's along at the front of the place, he will turn that attention to there. He does try to approach a few nobles that look like they're not as 'looky' as the others, then bows, "Good evening. What's going on?" he asks, while it looks like he's referencing the thing that people seem interested in, looking to the front of the place. "Lords, Ladies." Perhaps best to keep it polite and not look like he's idling at least.

Yeowang smiles widely to Shiruba as she takes in the Guild leader and her costume, which draws an amused smile. With a dry tone, she whispers back, "Enough of them owe me money, they could hardly refuse me. But the Guest List wasn't so tight as all that. Not for players, I think." As evidenced by many players being here that are not guildmasters or otherwise high rollers. The Landers all seem to be pretty big wheels, though, and Yeowang will go through and greet those she's done business with at some point. Idle conversation is not her forte, but luckily, she's fairly current on many business dealings and can of course talk business as easily as casual conversation about the Palace Lands. "Oh yes, our Landing there is coming along quite nicely, we're expanding rapidly..." and other vague comments fill in the gaps.

The economists' question is met with a thoughtful expression, and she notes, "While none of them are fully self-sufficient, they are generally endeavoring to be, because locally sourced goods are almost always less expensive and more available than imported. But the dynamic will shift based on how easily stood up each market is. Where mines have to be dug, it's a much more involved task than simply sending out lumberjacks, and the markets will only stay stable until new resources can be brought to market. Adventurers clearing monsters from certain areas is a new thing, which it seems we do, but the adventurers in the Palace Lands did not do much.
"For those with no resources of their own, they will always attempt to play the commodities owners off and select the best deal, which may not always be the same each time a deal is struck. I am not sure to what extent we might influence those decisions, but of course we will try." She will attempt to include Shiruba in her reply with a 'wouldn't you say so?' style remark, so she doesn't have to improvise any fiscal analysis.

"Of course the bottom line in any market is 'stay flexible, things will change quickly', and we can't be entirely sure where things will land. We, ourselves, will be embarking for the Palace Lands again soon, and hopefully we will have crops of Palace Lands spices for everyone to sample soon."

Gwen has come ot this a chance to actually use some of her own creations. How could you tell Gwen no on this? You would have to tie her up and lock her in a cell. If you eished to keep her away from this. She was in a ballgown for one and had a white mask on. Much like a certain Knight in Lunar Two. Thankfully she's not being bombastic. No she was making to mingle talk to peoiple she sought out other crafters or those involved in the seale of such items. Though gfor thsoe who knew her? The size, th wing and hair colour gave Gwen away.

    Rizadoman, the Phantom, makes his way through the crowd and seems to be moving to mingle with some of the minor nobility, if only to help build up some rapport. However he gets distracted, for you see there is the smell of the most wonderful thing in the world in the air. So the lizardman must take a detour as he finds the poor waitress with the tray of cheese as he stands their looming over for a moment before he remembers to control himself. Asking for only a few , he takes a handfull of horderves and moves on to the where he was going. Approaching the minor nobels and begins to bring, " Greetings, I wanted to say thank you all for supporting the trade negotiations..." Rizadoman trails off as he looks toward the cause of the commotion with curiosity , plopping a bite of cheese in his mouth.

While economics isn't her strongest suit Shiruba knows a fair share of trade and business from working in the Dominion lands and with the trade company Merek started. And just from being a Hunter, who's job is often to supply trade and craft materials to those that don't have the combat skills to survive collecting them on their own. She considers a moment, letting Yeowang finish with her answers since she was asked first, then joins in with her own when Yeowang provides her with the right oppritunity. "Most of the their potential is seeking trade of things they have that Yamato does not easily access, like their local spices. But likewise if we have things they cannot easily obtain those would be the prime goods to attempt to barter exchange with. Or in tasks such as monster clearing." She pauses, recalling the times she's spoke with some of the region leaders. "But they also wish to have little disruption of their established culture. So the successful trade negotiations will be those that can offer new goods while respecting those wishes."

An ear flicks in towards the front of the gathering, but with her focus on the conversation with Yeowang and the economists she can't fully devote attentin to what may be happening over there.

Giganpor raises an eyebrow behind his mask as he looks at the 'Artiste' carefully. "My good man, it is not the Kingdom that makes the Moonlight, it is their dedication which is not a manner of where you are born but the strength of your character. I have also recently encountered much of the Moonlight."

"If you are focused, however, one one Kingdom then you miss the beauty that comes from different styles, different influences, and different techniques being blended together to make a magnificent work in the long run. I trained long and hard with the Tradesmen of Ninetails as an armor smith. It is something that while I was not doing before the Apocalypse, I find myself seeing it as a way to enjoy my new life here despite the circumstances. Since then, I have seen wonders that have myself and others staring at the heart of our works and finding them wanting. At the same time, it is something that I find myself striving for that has my admiration of those who take pride in their work as much as I can do the same."

That the man is a bit full of himself, Giganpor takes the time to explain that he is from the Ninetails and an Adventurer, that he himself has made and seen wonders, even in this very city, that make others weep in joy at their beauty. It is rather long, and interplay that has Giganpor both admiring the man as well as interested in what Fort Ouph has as far as the Moonlight. What with his knowledge of the Eastal Free League so far, it even makes him perhaps consider going there to see if the close proximity to the Tree might have influence on the designs there.

And then comes the interesting part. Seeing some of this that is going on, however, has Giganpor's attention shift towards the front carefully as he continues to talk. Perhaps even drawing in those that like beauty and art as he does so. However, he looks at the Artiste after a moment, "Excuse me, sir. There is something interesting happening which has drawn my attention. If you wish to, when we both return to Eastal, I will gladly pay call to you in Fort Ouph if I might have your name?"

Merek's lack of attention to the nobles only turns him more of an outcast. Rather than rectify his error, he approaches a few nobles and starts asking them what's going on, right in the middle of them talking amongst eachother about what is going on. None of them know what is happening of course, and they immediately shoo away Merek. The casual 'Lords, Ladies' doesn't seem to help him much either. And approaching Merek like this, Allynna is now in the line of fire for these nobles. "Please leave." One of them already remarks to Merke, making a dismissive motion as the group begins to crowd forward.

The group around Yeowang and Shiruba nod as the former talks, listening to her comments. "We are aware of our dependance on eachother, due to our limited supplies." One of them notes. "We are concerned how to best limit the shift of that dynamic. Even if we have the Adventurer advantage here." - "Being flexible may be our biggest problem." The first then notes, thinking on this. Only for Rizadoman to chime in about trade negotiations. The economists giving Rizadoman a momentary look. "Ah, yeah. Of course." As they get distracted by what Rizadoman is looking at, and the rising sound of gasps.

Shiruba's mention of not wanting to have social disruptions gets a thoughtful sound from the economists though. "Of course. A tight control on culture ensures a tight control on the economy. Perhaps..." They mutter amongst eachother.

Gwen ends up right along with Giganpor and the chatty 'Artiste' from Fort Ouph - now working in Dun Loireag of course - who is intently chatting up the Were Fang. Or at least, he was, until Giganpor lays some facts on the man. He tries to counter them, but Giganpor is making a bit of a fool of the man, downplaying his calling as someone from Fort Ouph, and demanding a more open view within the area of arts. Something that gets a few giggles from the nobles around him. But Giganpor ensures the Artiste doesn't lose face by diplomatically and tactically also apreciating him and the insights he has.

In the meantime, the woman who has sat down in place of the lady of the evening draws her hood back. She looks very similar - in fact, almost like the inverse of the woman she 'replaced' - were it not for the jewelry and the shiny necklace she wears. White hair where the other had black hair. Like a sister. This causes the rumor-mill amongst the nobles to really start flowing, as the woman takes the smoking implement from the lady at the front and slides one leg over the other, and then demands on of the attendants to /take away/ the lady of the evening.

It is all somewhat bizarre. Yet, the attendant bows, nods, and proceeds to do as asked of him.

A challenge is how she lives her lifew now, not that she is going to boast about it to the party hostess. Giving a bow once she is bid to mingle, Allynna smiles and turns to mosey about the party, until she happens upan Merek and gives a sigh. "You look like you are having a bit of trouble." She says with a smile. Looking around for a certain someone she frowns. "You havent seen Gwen have you? I invited her to join me at this party, I wanted to show off this wonderful outfit she made me." She then blinks as the comotion starts and makes her way closer. "Merek, stay by me... I have that pitted feeling in my stomuc." She murmurs to her best friend.

Allynna, who nudges Merek along with her, walk up to Giganpor, offering a smile to Gwen before addressing the large cat-man in a hushed tone, her fan now raised over her mouth so that people can't read her lips. "Any idea what's going on with the 'changing of the guard?'" She asks as she flicks and ear towards the new 'hostess.' "Or is there some flavor text I missed, though I listend to every quest I've done, but I could be wrong." She states as she lowers her fan just abit to try and shake off suspision of gossip, which is probably a good thing around nobles in any case. It's like the game of houses from that book series she once read for her english class in university.

Yeowang nods thoughtfully as Shiruba picks up a point she hadn't mentioned, and she agrees, "That's a good point. While they are willing to sell us the things unique to their lands, they do not wish us to sell the things we have that they do not. They have asked us specifically to ensure we do not change their trade dynamic. That does not mean we cannot trade, only that we cannot put their traders out of business, nor open new product markets. A difficult task, which restricts us somewhat, but luckily adventurers have other skills that are in demand that will hopefully rebalance any trade deficits. Clearing land is probably chief among these, as the Palace Land's adventurers do not seem particularly eager to do business with their Landers."

As to how to limit the shift of the dynamic, she laments, "That is ultimately a recipe for failure, because as much as you may wish to retain a situation that allows you to profit, but the more you profit, the more someone will try to undercut or steal your market share. The best way to prolong, then, is to only collect a small profit margin, one that is not attractive to casual speculators, particularly if a capital investment, like a ship or mill, is part of the upfront cost, because if the profit margin is small, then it will take much longer to recoup their costs, and that will make that investment less attractive to them. If it costs them too much to break in to a market, the dynamic will shift slowly. Of course someone with idle money may do it out of spite, but that can't be helped short of military action. Luckily, that's quite an uncommon thing."

Gwen did not expect Gigan to bo be doing this she's darn well impressed to be sure. She will fins he listening ot everyt world he say and thinking about them. She does seem to be full of energy and she's spoted a few people weariing her creations tonight. This pleased the towering woman quite a bit. Also there is a bit of fear too. She thbought she saw her mother about mindling somewhere. She'll just leve that alone and pray it doesn't bite her or someone else close to her in the butt later.

She's ended up there and she will join in on the chatting.

She will let that go on as she mindl looking for others in the line of work she is in. She is a moonlight tailor after all and she willl also chatter looking for anyone she might be ablle to talk about Accessory forging or enchanting. Both skills she badly needs to pick up...

    Rizadoman watches , his eyes focusing on the lady of the night who is in the process of giving up her smoking pipe and the new lady who seems to be replacing her. There is a puzzlement as his suspicions don't play out. Looking at one of the economist nobles, preferably the one who is not directly adding their own two gold coins to the conversation with Yeowang. The lizardman would the question that many are probably about to ask, "I apologize I fear I do not know every person of nobility by face alone. Who is our new attendee that appears to be taking our Hostess's seat? Was I so ignorant of faces that I mistook an impersonator for our real hostess?" His voice is kept low obvious he is trying to keep the social blunder of these questions on the downlow, also hoping that by putting the blame on his own ignorance ahead of time he could save face if needed.

Shiruba lets the more well-versed Yeowang handle the conversation again. The gasps and murmurs are getting to be too promenant for the curious Cait Sith wolfgirl to just set aside and she turns her attention from the discussion to look at what's going on. That's... unusual. Rizadoman asks the question she was starting to wonder herself though. Was something wrong... or was this just something Adventurers like them didn't see often because they didn't have a lot of exposure to the upper circles of the Ninetails trade nobility.

After a moment she turns back the group of economists and half-bows politely. "Excuse me. My throat is getting dry from the night of intriging conversation and I need to remedy that." She departs from the group and heads towards one of the refreshment tables. One as close to the strange exchange and confused mutters as she can get without becoming an imposing presence.

After getting the name of the Artiste, Giganpor's eyes narrow a bit behind his mask. Making an excuse for himself, he moves away. Instead of going for the new hostess, however, he makes his way around to attempt to intercept the former lady of the evening.

He is careful of his walk to not seem too urgent, nor too fast. Just right enough to get to where he can intercept the servant and former lady perhaps after they leave.

Giganpor's eyes do stray to the new lady of the evening, however, off and on.

He does pick up a glass of drink on the way, two in fact.

Yeowang continues to explain some of the complexities of navigating the issues ahead, and he economists listen intently. They are no fools, they understand quite a lot about the basics of trade. Yeowang knows they are vultures - something you need within a nation - but she can see how they are thinking about how to best apply all of this to the international trade coming up.

Gwen is temporarily abandoned by Giganpor, leaving her with the Artiste, who is looking the white haired lady's way. "She would make a wonderful next piece." He remarks, focused on the whole picture before him. "What a night. The bards will no doubt sing of this. An unknown sister. A mysterious past..." He chimes, before noticing that Gwen as she just stands there, and motions for her to depart. "If you are not going to say anything, shoo."

Rizadoman gets a similar kind of remarks on the topic of who this lady is. "We don't know either." The economists remark in an annoyed manner. "And we know everyone who there is to know. But clearly she must be someone of importance." - "But who?" None of them move forward to ask. Perhaps the mystery is better. Or all of the nobles are just trying to figure out how to best not make a faux pas in maneuvering here. They are lacking information.

And they know there will be Adventurers who will make this mistake for them.

The new lady then motions her hand. "On with the party everyone." She chimes, her voice almost the same as the one she'd replaced. And the murmuring quiets down, and the music re-engages. Clearly, she is _the_ topic of talk right now. But the Landers have so far been outmaneuvered by being given nothing to work with.

    There's only so much that one man can tolerate, and Merek looks to Allynna while he seems to consider all the stares, and motioning. "You shouldn't be seen with me," he offers to the woman. Then he bows to the ones that motioned to him, "I apologize if I have upset. I am new to this. I am a foreigner, even amongst my own people." The man seems to try to do all he can to keep his emotions along in check. The hand of his turns to itself, then he seems to think. And he's frozen with memories, thinking back to things. Things that... Well, that he no longer knows. To him, it does look like this whole world is where half of his known experience comes from, he feels alienated.

Allynna blinks as her question goes unanswered by Giganpor, maing it look like the cat man snubbed her as she frowns under the mask she wears and reaches up to unclasp one of the leather bands on it, sliding it to show the left side of her face as she looks after him. "Well, that was quite rude." She says as she turns to Gwen and the noble who is shooing her, she knows she has to be on her best behavior, but, she adresses the noble with her towering pressence. "Shooing someone at another's party, especially one of the best tailors in the land, there is shame in that, and after you made such a good impression with my fellow alliance member." She says in a practiced hauty tone, best way to show that you are supirior is to act like it. Turning to Gwen she offers the woman a hand. "Come gwen, let me escort you about the party, it woulden;t do for you to come across any other rudeness while here." She says with a smile to the only centemeters shorter woman.

Giganpor, tailing the former lady, returns not long after. He looks slightly annoyed. Then he seems to consider his options. He moves off to one side, and seems to consider before turning to admire something or other and using it as an excuse to use his Chimlink.

Since personal tactics have failed, it's time for him to reveal his reasons and then some.

The mystery is enough of a cover for this, as he stays as out of the way as he can while doing what he has to do in this case. And perhaps he might add a bit more to it.

    Rizadoman casts one final glance to the new Lady of the night as she deems it is time to return to the party. This feels odd but given the lack of unknown going around the room it's not a trap at least. Taking a moment he looks at the noble who gave him an answer, " Speaking of interesting guests, we had a few recently show up in Shibuya. An Ino Hatsuse and his party, from the Kallamore Kingdom. I believe they were planning to make their way to this region based on certain comments they made. I was curious if they had arrived here safely, and as you said you know everyone there is to know, I am sure you would know if they had arrived safely?" The lizardman puts extra concern in his voice there at the end.

Allynna raises her fan over her face as she murmurs somthing into her chimlink, making sure she is facing Gwen.

Yeowang smiles and bows to Shiruba as she makes her apologies and departs for a drink. She considers the sort of advice to lay on these vultures. "I think the best profits to be made will be in selling services, but also in improving their production methods. They do not want new things, but the old things at a better price they will not complain about. So, to simplify, do not offer them the swords or ploughshares you sell in Yamato, but if you can make them in the style they use over there, then you only have to best their price. But then the burden is then on you to accept the cost of standing up a process. Of course, the Ninetails Bank can lend you gold," she slips in, the plug for her own little profit generator, though of course the loan comes at a price. "But if you will excuse me, I am being summoned."

Yeowang will bow and depart from the merchants and head over to see what Giganpor wants, gliding gracefully over toward him.

Nobles are silly thing sometimes. Gwen thinks for a moment and more sees why her ancestors rebelled against the British Crown but that is neither here nor there. She'll look to the man for a moment smiling "My apologies I was just thinking of what sort of works I could make that our mystery guest might wear."

Well that cuts short as Allynna to the rescue.

She look to Allynna and smikes.

"Thank you I would be happy to."

She'll offer her escort her arm.

"Lead the way!"

Such a peculiar turn of events. For what it's worth Shiruba does collect herself a drink from one of the tables, still trying to figure out what was weirder. The replacement, or that the original hostess seemed to leave so ... willingly... and the others just turned back to the party like it was nothing unusual.

She takes a sip. Then tilts her head slightly as Giganpor speaks up over the chimlink. She murmurs a reply back, remembering this time to keep her voice to a whisper, and turns from the table to walk in Giganpor's direction. It doesn't take long for her to notice the others heading that way too. Particularly Allynna and Gwen walking together. Oh, good, maybe that'll give Gwen's mom someone other than her to pester.

But enough of that, Giganpor is on to something, let's go see what it is...

Allynna smiles and lowers her fan, taking a statly walk with Gwen on her arm as she heads over to Giganpor and loks at the cat-man as she talks in a low husked tone. "Please tell me I get to break somthing, having to act posh is starting to make my skin crawl." She murmurs as she looks around, not letting go of Gwen's arm because *squee* she has Gwen on her arm now.

Merek shows weakness. Amongst Adventurers, this may be okay. But he soon will notice that the 'foreigner', stranger to his people, is being escorted out by some guards - politely asking him not to make a scene. The arena of politics is not for the inexperienced or faint of heart.

Allynna in the meantime, plays defense for Gwen, putting her own reputation on the line while invoking Gwen's own. The dress she is wearing being put into a new light however, at the declaration that Gwen's clothing is likely of her own make. This gets Gwen a few looks from around her.

At Rizadoman's comments, the economists nod; "Yes, the delegation of Kallamore made it through here. Though they were more interested in the higher ups. They visited most of the Nine Dominions, I believe." One of them remarks. The economists then finish listening to Yeowang and nod their heads, talking amongst themselves as the Adventurers begin to 'flock', which draws some attention amongst the Landers.

    Rizadoman nods his head , " Oh I am glad to hear this, their ships were quite impressive, but there are still many dangers out their in the sea." As the conversation begins to move to why most of his alliance mates are being pulled away to Giganpor, Rizadoman lowers his head to the group. "Don't let this get around, but one of my alliance members is having some costume issues. It appears several of our more competent members have noticed and moving to assist him. I am sure successful nobles like yourself know how it is sometimes when one must cover for others mistakes." There is the undertone that the lizardman is trying to present that the ladies are having to bail the guy out of trouble before it gets noticed that he hopes the two nobles catch on to.

Giganpor waits until he has everyone with him before keeping his voice low. And he happens to overhear Rizadoman. Were Fang senses for the win there. That leads to him subtley moving a little and motioning the ladies closer, as if inspecting a tear or something wrong with his costume. He says over the Chimlink, very low and very quiet so that the others near him might not hear, "Nice cover, Rizadoman."

Then he glances around, as if daring people to listen in or earn his wrath after the slight mockery of the Artiste he did before.

His voice stays low as he talks to the ladies, "I apologize for a bit of subterfugue, but I heard rumors while I was doing negotiations. And I decided to investigate them, thus my coming here and dragging along a few and then some. If you noticed our hostess has a bit of odd jewelry on that may or may not be something of interest. I have heard of such causing trouble here and there among a few parties. I just did not know what kind of trouble until this. Sadly, subtle approaches are not my thing so... in the interest of not making a major scene, the call for help."

He does keep looking a bit, the cover of noting people who might earn the wrath of his tongue or just the anger in business or negotiations the most reasonable cover from the Were Fang's eyes. At the same, however, he looks for those that might be subtley trying to listen in as well.

Gwendoes see those looks as she's departing she will simply linger just long enough for the intrest before she leves with her escort. "Thank you I think I owe you one. I feel like that time my family had to dead with tourists from LA." She shudders at the memoriy interally. However as Giganpor speaks she replies. "So you needed backup already here. I underdstand I didn't mind a chance to get to wear one of my own creations." She beams at this. Forgeting what she'd stumbled into eariler.

Allynna nods as she uses her free hand o adjust and toy with Giga's outfit, slight motions to keep up the allusion that she is helping him with his wardrobe malfunction. "Giga, if you are having a spot of trouble, I won't fair much better... Also should we leave Merek to his problem or maybe he can be the distraction we need?" She asks, looking over as it's getting more intense. "This is why you never bring a software engineer to a gala." She murmurs under her breath.

    Merek looks to the guards while they try to move him away from the nobles, then he takes the time to take off his costume top, then he begins to place the hood up on his attire. The man lifts up a hand to one of the guards, though he doesn't make a scene and looks to the people. "No. I will be on my way when I decide to be on my way." He then hums to himself a little song, "No one is going to usher me out, much less touch me without me saying that they can."
    He doesn't have the restraint that memories would permit, instead all he can think back to is situations like this. Always like this. No matter what he tries. The man makes two fists while he seems to try and keep his calm. "Perhaps, if you think that foreigners should be taken away from the party, I wonder what you would say about our Palace Land friends. Their nobles would like to know what you think about foreigners," the man offers to the two nobles while he scratches along his stubble.

Shiruba for the part squats down like she was inspecting something on Giganpor's person. Rizadoman gave them all the cover they needed, especially since they do have a Tailor with them. She nods lightly as Giganpor explains, but keeps quiet otherwise than a soft "Nothing on this leg," to go along with their 'excuse' to gather together. She does lean over a little farther, both to look like she's checking Gigan's boots, and to glance past his legs to see Merek with the guards. A muffled sigh follows. "Now what..." She shakes her head a little as she stands back up, voice keeping down to a whisper. "So no just going up and confronting her. That'd cause too big of a scene in front of so many eyes..." She looks between Gigan and Yeowang. "Or get affected by whatever they did ourselves."

Yeowang looks between Merek and Giganpor as if trying to decide which is a more dire crisis. But she's standing next to Giganpor, so it will have to be him first. She can only hope Merek doesn't do anything untoward. To Giganpor, she whispers, "If you want a quiet investigation, Akatsuki is your best bet. /Anything/ untoward we do here and now, in front of all the nobles, will poison the reputation of the New World Alliance with all these Landers. And it will cause us far more trouble than is worth weathering. AKatsuki can almost certainly take it with no one the wiser for a week later and us not involved at all. This is a game, but not all games are about fights. Something Merek seems not to understand."

As Merek's fists come up, the guards look between eachother. Merek isn't exactly armed, nor armored in their eyes. So they both just walk up to him, try to grab him under the shoulders, and attempt to drag him off regardless of what Merek might be rambling on about. Trying to keep things quiet, though Merek no doubt can see the nobles looking his way with disgust at this point. This kind of display of 'low class buffoonery' clearly not appreciated by the 'higher order' of Dun Loireag.

Gwen says quietly "I'm just from rural texas..." Her acceent showing through for a moment she catches herself. She has an idea of the level of high socity things that are going on right now and she's glad for the support form friends and allies right now.

Giganpor's ears twitch as he hears Merek, and resists the urge to facepalm. Really resists it. "I can see that. And well, before the negotiations I would probably do something like what Merek is doing... the bad part is we are in the city safe zone, so... anything he does is just going to cause a scene, I think."

He hums at the subtle part, and says, "Are you sure? I swear I heard a sound somewhere. Maybe the sleeve, then?" To keep up their pretense. His eyes do go to the altercation, however, and he has a very suitable look of embarrassment at seeing such.

He looks to the ladies again, lowering his voice, "But yes... the only clue I have is some sort of throat mounted device doing something. Unless I am mistaken, it may be on our new hostess. I was also blocked from following the former lady as well."

    Merek looks to the guards while they will try to take him by force to the exit, then he pulls back while he keeps them away with a small check. He steps back while he takes a look at the from the hood, "You know. I think I will be about my way. It was a nice party. There's a reason that in our world, the way of thinking you all hold is no longer acceptable." He then will take the time to walk to the door, "I spent months fighting in a war to protect you all. You know, everyone else might want to play your games, but I'm better than that." Then he's away.

"Safe zones are a problem in certain instances... Merek is going to get unalived at this point... let me save him." She says to Giganpor. "This could reflect badly on all of us." She slowly let's go og Gwen's arm. "I'll want that arm back later." She says to the tall tailor with a wink before huffing herself and walking over towards the comotion.

Attempting to place her close fan against merek's chest, more to get his attenion, she reguard's the guards. "I'll take custody of him now, you are dismissed." She says in a caughty commanding tone as she then socialy dismisses them and turns to face Merek. "Brother... maybe we should step outside for a breath of fresh air... now." She says as she also attempts to take his arm and try and lead him away, speaking into her fan again.

Shiruba feels bad for Merek, really she does. But trying to intervein would just cause more trouble when they don't want to draw attentio--Oh, Allynna's got it. Whew. Good, good. Hopefully that's crisis adverted.

She turns her attention back to Giganpor, Yeowang and Gwen, still keeping her voice low. "That would be a good start, getting someone more subtle to look around. Maybe find a less... public option for an actual confrontation over the matter, if it comes to that."

Yeowang kind of isn't bothering at this point at the faux fashion emergency that someone is having, it's understood now by everyone, possibly excepting Merek, what's going on. But since she's surrounded by just the Guildies, she will risk a brief chim: "Merek, please just let ... yes, fine," she concludes as he makes his own choice to depart, with Allynna backing that up. /She/ certainly seems like she will be able to take care of things, so she will turn back to the party at large.

"Such a tragedy when someone has too much to drink," she laments aloud, mostly for the Landers' sake. "But I'm sure it won't have any bearing on /important matters/?" Those were the topics of import we were here to discuss, she hopes to imply.

    Rizadoman's attention follows Merek and if you have ever thought it was not possible for a lizardman to frown but their is certainly a frown on Rizadoman's face. He is about to step away when he sees Allynna moving towards Merek already and making sure to lead him out. There is a deep regret that she is not a Moon Tree member, she would be getting a promotion if she was. Merek on the other hand, well that was for another time. For now Rizadoman takes a deep breath and turns back to his two friends, " I fear I must go apologize to our Hostess, if you two will forgive me. "

     Taking a step away from the two nobles he has been chatting with he makes his way towards the Lady of the Night and speaks up a little for all to hear, " I apologize for my compatriot, he is a bit of a lush and I feel he got a hold of the liquor despite saying otherwise. I will have you know their will be reprecussions for his behavior tonight and I will make sure he doesn't return to this house." With that Rizadoman knows the party is over for him and likely other known associates of Merek as he sees himself out.

As time passes, the Adventurers will see the nobles slowly getting back into formation, generally interacting with eachother. The 'gates' being closed, so to speak, as cliques naturally form amongst them, making it harder and harder to interact with them. The white haired Fox Cait Sith watching all of it, and eventually starting to look their way as they keep talking amongst eachother, still fidgetting with Giganpor's clothing.

They've lost the momentum, and no doubt they will have to come back to all of this with a plan on what to do about all of this.

At Rizadoman's approach, the white haired woman raises her hand and nods to Rizadoman. "Just do not bring him to these kinds of events anymore. Such disruptions are unbecoming, and speak badly not just of himself, but also the opinions upon Adventurers. And more importantly, upon the parties at which such things occur." She notes.

"I imagine this will have its effects on his holdings in this town eventually." She adds, before she returns to smoking and dismissive any others who wish to approach her.

Shiruba glances over her shoulder again as Riza goes to smooth things over a bit. "I don't think much more will come of tonight. The proposed approach is best to follow." Then at a more normal party volume. "I'm sure your talented seamstress friend can take care of any more issues." She winks at Gwen... and turns to head back to one of the food tables for a few more munchies. Besides, it'd look weird if they all stayed together over a costume any longer. Or all started leaving together. They're getting enough odd looks as it is, just for huddling off like that.

Giganpor glances at the others there. "We've been noticed." He says in a whisper. "We can meet later over this, I suppose."

He raises his voice as well, "I do hope so. I liked this outfit and was hoping to learn about more, even if it is slightly less comfortable than my armor. If you will excuse me, ladies. Please enjoy the party."

He turns to make his way out as well, coat being moved to close about himself as if to hide whatever tore.

Yeowang sees Rizadoman has spoken with the hostess, and as the soiree starts to lurch uncomfortably back into motion, she will mingle and attempt to help it along, bidding farewell to Giganpor as he makes his own exit. She shares Shiruba's opinion that it'd be awkward if we all left at once, and give a very incorrect impression besides, so she will stay a while longer. She anyhow has the way of conversation with the financiers, at least, and will make inconsequential chat for a while longer, listening, nodding, and taking note of who says what. This -is- what you do at parties, of course. If there's no fighting.

Gwen looks to Allynna and nods "The Royal guard will flaten him if he start a fight." She wtches Allyna and looks like she' ready to go as well. That doesnt' seem to be needed as Battle Bun is away to rescue Merekle from a dire fate. She also get the idea its time to leave oson though she fears for her business ventures given she's pretty tied into Merek's own...