they've got all the right friends in all the right places

[sageprincess]

Characters: "Pandora" and the Tower populace.
Setting: Floor 82 - The Masquerade Ballroom.
Format: Party style - pick your poison.
Summary: As the lights begin to flicker and the month rapidly draws to its close, the mysterious "Pandora" has invited the residents of the Tower to a masquerade ball.
Warnings None as of yet.

"Between the noise you hear, and the sound you like..."

Well, now, that invitation certainly was mysterious, huh? Who is Pandora, and what's the occasion for this party she's holding? And what was that message on the back all about? Remember this: There will come a time when everything around you seems to be not what you thought it was, and you won't know what to believe about anything at all. At that time, look for something that is still true. In the wake of the chaos caused by those rumors written on the walls, perhaps it seems like a too-late warning. In any case, the ballroom on the eighty-second floor shimmers and shines exquisitely, awaiting the guests' arrival. The dance floor is open and spacious, and, as promised, refreshments line a buffet table on one of the far walls. While much of it has obviously been nicked from the cafeteria, there is also a variety of meats and seafood not otherwise available in this month's menu. Yes, this also means there is alcohol. Take care not to lose the mask that is placed upon your face the instant you step off the staircase, however. You don't want to be the single recognizable person in a crowd of anonymous dancers, do you? Who knows what you might hear from a masked stranger...

"... are we just sinking in an ocean of faces?"

[Description of Floor 82 from the setting page: "A masquerade party is taking place in this intricately decorated, expensive-looking ballroom, and you're going to have to participate. As soon as you step onto this floor a mask is placed on your face. Anyone wearing a mask is completely anonymous even to those with supernatural abilities. You can take off a mask, but anyone with their mask off is compelled to truthfully answer any question they're asked."]

Comments

[sageprincess]

[Zelda herself is not truly accustomed to such thing either, as Ganondorf's coup put quite a damper on her attendance of parties and balls after the age of ten or so. But the anonymity the floor provides gives her a freedom to act outside of how she usually would, and playing the part of jovial dancer comes easier without the fear of people immediately recognizing her.

The woman returns Luffy's bow with a curtsey, her voice cheerful in turn.]

Of course, sir. It would be my pleasure.

[gomu_ningen]

[He extends a hand, offering his palm up in gesture of taking the lead toward the floor.]

Please, let me escort you to the floor.

[His mask lowers slightly down the brim of his nose, revealing his eyes to the young maiden. He couldn't be sure it was the woman whom Gandalf and Link had spoke of, but he'd have to take the risk if it meant pursuing his agenda against the Tower.]

My name is "Ace", pleased to meet you Miss..?

[sageprincess]

[Unfortunately, she's not in a mood to be revealing. That would ruin the entire point of this gala, after all!]

Elizabeth. [Delicately, she places her hand in his.] Likewise, Ace, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance as well.

[gomu_ningen]

[With great care the masked Captain takes hold of her gentle hand, escorting her to the middle of the room as the music played on. Turning her hand, he faced her and bowed his head politely before placing a hand at her trim waist. Lifting her hand in his own slightly, 'Ace' lead the both of them into a simple waltz as the music overhead hummed softly over the crowd of guests.]

Sorry.. I'm not really used to this sort of thing. I was told by a wise man in the Cafeteria that I should try and meet with a girl who would know why this party was being held.

[His voice grows softer, leaning in just enough to not draw attention to the two of them.]

I don't know if you are her, but I was told that the Princess would know what to do to fight against the Tower.