2017.12 21: Opening Night at Bourbon & Bedlam
| Opening Night at Bourbon & Bedlam | |
|---|---|
| Everyone in Prospect | |
| IC Date | December 21st, 2017 |
| Players | Amelie, Angelica, Arianna, Arya, Azrael, Caerus, Dashiel, Guivre, Heathen, Hyo, Jolene, Liraz, Madeline, Makiko, Mikael, Phoenix, Sentinel, Tommy |
| Location | Bourbon & Bedlam Bar |
| Spheres | ALL |
| Theme Song | Let The Good Times Roll![1] |
"Laissez les bon temps rouler!"
"Let The Good Times Roll!"
A running joke of the locals in New Orleans is the Bedlam that is Bourbon Street, the center of the French Quarter in New Orleans. The bar that is in front of you, beyond the beautiful small extension courtyard, is obviously a homage to that, and more - a tribute, with a California style, that whispers to the old while it brings in the new. The floor is covered in elegant Herringbone design parquet in beautiful shades of oak wood. The walls are done in a subdued grey-taupe color.
Rather you came through the gate from Vieux Carre, or from the street, upon entering the building you now find yourself in a large spacious room that is dominated by the bar. Perhaps one shaped by adult fantasies from childhood memories ~ it is a Carousel ~ that is the first thing that you see as you step through the doors.(+view here/carousel) The joke is that it is the only Carousel one must be 21 in order to ride.
Tables and chairs are scattered around the sides of the Carousel, as well as cozy little areas designed to give groups a more comfortable sitting room atmosphere - upholstered chairs and love seats sit around the tables there. A railing, and a couple of steps down separates it from the sunken back area of the bar where a stage sits waiting for performers at one end, and a game room area with pool and foosball tables that can be enjoyed is on one side. Almost hidden by the curtains of the stage is a doorway, where security will stop anyone not known from entering. The same comfortable settings are done in this area as well, with a long couch sitting against the side wall, several chairs across from it, giving the area a chic but homey feeling to it.
(http://coh.spork.com/index.php?title=Bourbon_And_Bedlam)
OOC: Characters who have flaws that have an aversion to bright lights or mirrors should be aware that both are present in the front area of room. There is an entrance from Vieux Carre that comes out into the back area of the room where there are no bright lights mirrors or reflective surfaces.
<----View Here and Places Set---->
Currently the Courtyard has been transformed into a Holiday Wonderland, with a 15 foot Evergreen tree decorated in purple, gold and green balls, ribbons, garland and tinsel with gently twinkling soft clear lights. Additional lights are wrapped around cone and berry Christmas garland that hangs in loops across the walkways around the fountain, and across the second story balcony. The fountain itself is circled with white poinsettias. The trees all twinkle with the same soft lights like hundreds of fireflies in the sky overhead. Displays have been set up, most around what appears to be a small wooden shack. When not lighted it is a hard to determine exactly what the forms around the shack are, but with effort forms of frogs, a dog, a Santa, and alligators can be made out among other things. http://coh.spork.com/images/e/e2/CajunChristmasDisplay.jpg After dark, when they are lighted these forms are set to come on and go off in a pattern, always ending with everything going dark except for the large display on top of the building. http://coh.spork.com/images/4/46/SantaandCrocs.JPG
The doors are draped with the same softly lighted garland, while inside the bar and lounge itself in a back area corner by the railing, a table has been moved, and in its place sits a large Christmas tree: https://i.pinimg.com/736x/22/38/16/22381609ad2890298149735d04403b6c--mardi-gras-beads-mardi-gras-party.jpg
Heathen open the door for people as they arrive, giving flourishing bows and a choice of warm drinks. Coffee, hot cocoa, cider or warmed wine upon entry. Just a little pick me up from the cold. Good evening, ladies and gents, let the hurricane party commence!"
Sentinel wanders in, shaking off water. She smiles. "What a nice place. All these new areas opening."
Despite the cancellations of some of the performers due to the storm, Mikaël hasn't cancelled the evening. Instead the opening is getting to be the going joke, gaining the rep of being a "Hurricane Party", in true New Orleans style. Basically party until you float out into the ocean! Outside the storm is still raging, but inside it is dry, toasty warm, and activity is flourishing. A crash was heard, just a few minutes after true dark fell, and the small amount of sunlight trying to peek through the clouds had left the sky. The wind took down the Santa and Alligators display from the roof! Most of the afternoon there was a stream of police, and city emergency crew and volunteers coming into the cafe area getting Po'Boys, and large containers filled with hot coffee. At the moment there is a table set up by the door, with food samples from the cafe, along with a large bowl of hot mulled wine.
The band is currently warming up itself, playing Mary Chapin Carpenter's Twist and Shout in the background, with the words 'Hurricane party every time it blows' written in colorful letters in a blackboard near the stage as the doors officially open
Hyo is settled in at one of the many tables, with her coat hung up on the back of her chair and a cup of coffee and spiced wine sitting on it. She is there to greet the first of the guests as they wade through the snow, and greets them with a bright smile and a wave of her hand. She finishes off her coffee and looks over at the band, eagerly listening to them set up in anticipation.
Sentinel looks around "What can I do to help?" the silver haired woman asks, eager to assist in keeping the party going.
Guivre bustles into the establishment wearing a loud colored suit in a bright festive shade of green. His unique suit has the sort of pattern one might expect from a roll of holiday wrapping paper or an ugly Christmas sweater... call it.. an ugly sweater suit. On his head is a Santa hat and he's dragging a trunk with him as he comes in from out of the storm. Guivre looks around, shifting his gaze between the trunk and the room as he contends with the cumbersome kit.
Phoenix steps into the room, glancing around and smiling, pleased at the turnout.
Roscoe Jenks enters the room. DeSoto Santiago enters the room. Amelie enters just behind Phoenix and Guivre. She shakes off her coat and hands it to her guards. Both Roscoe and DeSoto are unwilling to leave Amelie's side after yesterday's events, but the grudgingly let her go forward to great her friends and stay a few feet behind her.
Caerus steps in from outside. The man must be rainproof. Through wet from head to toe it doesn't seem to bother him. He takes off his long, black raincoat and hangs it at the door. He smiles at Heathen and then laughs. He nods with a small smile to Hyo and then makes his way to the bar for the free drink. Caerus steps up and take a seat on the revolving Carousel Bar.
Hyo watches Guivre lug his trunk around in his festive attire, squinting over at him in confusion. She pushes up from her bar, feeling comfortable enough to abandon some of her belongings at the table. The one thing she does bring with her appears to be a memo pad with a pen clipped to it. She approaches Guivre and hesitates trying to debate on what to do to start with, and just decides to go with writing on her notepad, 'Do you need help getting that somewhere sir?' Once she's finished writing, she holds it up to Guivre to be read. Hyo stands and leaves a table by stage.
Guivre glances over, stopping when he notices the outstretched notepad. He grins kindly at the owner, "Oh, no, I'm fine.. thank you." A few awkward bobs of his head, "Very kind of you though, very thoughtful." He looks back to the trunk and hefts it again to get it up on its side so he can drag it toward the stage. He looks a sight, waddling swiftly backwards and granny-style dragging the trunk with him around the corner of the stage. He's soon out of sight!
Mikaël says, “Bonsoir, mes amies! Come in, and be welcome!" He greets those entering, looking a bit shopworn, but with a huge smile on his face. He us wearing a deep green suit, a festive purple shirt, and a gold vest. He slips his arm around Phoenix, and echoes Heathen's words. "There is mulled wine, or chose something from the bar. In just a few minutes we will get started by lighting up the Carousel. My regrets that some of the performers and other activities has had to be cancelled, but we of the South do not ever say die, oui?"”
Phoenix beams as Mikaël approaches "Good turnout" he says with a smile "I knew it would be."
Hyo watches Guivre continue on with the trunk after the polite decline of the offer, and nods her head over at him with a gentle smile before he ducks out. She wanders over to try to catch a spot on the carousel, looking around thoughtfully once she's settled in at a spot there. Hyo steps up and take a seat on the revolving Carousel Bar.
Caerus tries one of the drinks and makes a bit of an awkward face, "Man..that's...*coughcough*... quite good." He nods a little. "I think I'll take an Irish whiskey..make it a double." He looks at Hyo, "Do you like the storm?"
The band in the lounge can be heard, even from the front of the bar as additional speakers have been set up in there. They start up with a jumping tune as people arrive: Santa Claus Is Comin' In A Boogie Woogie Choo Choo Train ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xG8HDLBPJQ
Sentinel steps up and take a seat on the revolving Carousel Bar.
Sentinel stands silently by the bar, watching others come and go. At least she's out and about but she's never the most social. She's always in guard mode.
Hyo turns her head to Caerus after she's addressed and considers it before wobbling her hand uncertainly in the air. She watches him and attempts to sign to him, asking, 'Can you sign?' After she waits curiously to see his response she looks to the bartender and makes it more simple by writing down Bullet Milk Punch for them to read. Hyo orders a Bullet Milk Punch from Phillipe or Adrien. Phillipe or Adrien nods, and begins to mix your drink, making a show of it. Phillipe or Adrien hands Hyo a Bullet Milk Punch with a smile, and then steps over to the next customer.
Caerus shakes his head a little to Hyo, "Not yet but seems a real handy thing to learn...especially in loud bars and windy storms." He grins a little.
Heathen gives Amelie an extra warm hug on her way in and makes sure her boys get some coffee, greeting arriving guests, and maayyybee.. taking a little peek at what Guivre is setting up.
As people came in, they might have noticed that the windows are boarded up, and sandbags were added in front of them when the snow started to fall more heavily. One of the volunteers decided to get a bit funny, and spray painted a message across one of the largest ones: https://hips.hearstapps.com/pop.h-cdn.co/assets/16/10/1457639121-hurricaneparty.jpg
Amelie returns Heathen's warm hug and lingers in it longer than usual. "Bon Soir, mon chéri. So nice to see you tonight." She's dressed in her favorite gold sparkly dress and heels. "I'm afraid with the storm and all, that Nicolai will be unable to attend tonight. He needs to stay at his business and help out there. But I am here and glad to be."
Hyo scratches the back of her neck with a smile, but nods at Caerus looking grateful for his honesty at least. She props her notebook on her lap and starts to write on it. Oddly enough, doesn't appear to be marked with what could be her name, unless she goes by Brandon. She turns the notepad for Caerus to read it after she's done, 'That is okay. I am not deaf, it just saves on some paper and Eloise spoiled me. My name is Hyo. I like the snow, I've always loved the snow. But I am concerned for the people, fear the damage that might come from it. But that can only be helped with good spirits.'
Phoenix glances to Mikaël and smiles "I'll be sitting over here if you need me." he says fondly, heading to find a quiet place to sit.
Guivre is out of sight setting up his tricks for later in the evening. When the magician catches Heath peeking he picks up one of those ol' school bottles of seltzer water from out of his trunk to fire at him, laughing and shooing him.
Mikaël whispers to Phoenix, and gives him a hug before he then moves to the Carousel, lifting a glass of mulled wine into the air. "Before the show officially starts, I want to thank everyone that braved the storm in getting here tonight, so that we can officially open up Bourbon and Bedlam. So, with no further interruption, I give you Prospect's answer to The Carousel Bar!" He waits until everyone that wishes to get on it does so before he nods to Phillipe and Adrien so that they can start the Carousel fully rotating. As the lights come on brightly, the bar and on stage cut loose with a song that simply says New Orleans - When the Saints Come Marching In: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3ONxXC4e4o
Mikaël steps up and take a seat on the revolving Carousel Bar.
Announcement: TrashPanda shouts, “A tremendous explosion of sounds can be heard to the South. Like a bomb has gone off. The Weather continues over Prospect itself, and visibility is horrible. (Those wishing an Awareness roll, may send to TrashPanda(TP), diff 8)”
Phoenix cocks a brow and heads to try and see whets going on.
Sentinel hears an explosion and heads to the door. "Oh dear. Power Transformer, I hope?"
Guivre stops what he is doing backstage and leaves his trunk unattended... he walks out slowly into the center of the room. He has a concerned look on his face and he is turned to the south.
Hyo looks around and grins with a childish excitement when the entire bar area itself starts to move and the music starts to play. She leans down to try to get a peek underneath the bar to get a look at what could be pushing it underneath, but the loud sound nearly makes her bonk her head on top of the table itself. She rubs her head and looks around to make sure nothing in the immediate vicinity has fallen down. Not seeing anything out of the ordinary, Hyo tries to distract herself by taking small sips from her milky mixed drink.
The room suddenly shakes, and the lights flicker, and then go out, plunging the room into darkness. A few of the musicians miss a beat, then stop playing as they look around mystified. The power generator can be heard kicking in, and the darkness is countered by soft light that comes on throughout the room, although the Carousel itself stops rotating. Mikaël looks around, and states, "It is all right everyone, just remain calm, oui?" He steps down and moves toward the door.
Sentinel goes into..well Sentinel guard mode. "I will guard the doors. Continue the party as usual."
Phoenix slips to a stand and heads over to where Mikaël is, following along.
Heathen closes his eyes a moment, and then reopens them. "Well, that's a way to start with a bang." Even as nameless NPC first responders guzzle coffee and head out.
Guivre rushes through the crowd as the room rumbles (almost as if he were ready for the disturbance) to track down Mikaël, drawing in close to whisper something to him before pulling away and walking off across the room just as quickly.
Mikaël nods to Guivre, whispering back before the man rushes off.
Caerus chuckles to Hyo and nods, "Nice. I agree with you. I am Caerus." Then the explosion hits and he looks to the door.
Caerus stands and makes his way to the door to head out into the storm, nodding to a few people on his way out.
Mikaël turns and looks at the crowd, "Everyone! Drinks are on the house, your money is no good here tonight, oui? Find a seat somewhere, I am sure that was just thunder."
Phoenix remains near Mikaël but looks up "Everyone should try to stay put. I think possibly the power is out everywhere. It's warm here thanks to the generator...if you need anything...let us know." Who knew he had a voice at all.
Mikaël steps over to Amelie, and motions for Heathen to join him.
Hyo's eyes bounce and try to track the people that are moving and hurrying around the room. Her brows dipped down in concern, she shifts uncertainly where she sits despite looking alert and tense. Thankfully at least Caerus is there near her for the time being, that is until he's gone when she looks to him. She watches him go sadly but returns to sipping softly on her drink. When the server tries to pass back the money she paid for her drink, Hyo tries to hesitantly shake her head in decline.
Madeline steps in, wrapped in a deep green cloak with the hood over her hair against the weather. Slowly drawing it back she smiles "Mikaël, did you order a hurricane party to go with your grand opening?
Phoenix motions Madeline over to him and murmurs to her.
Guivre is wearing a festive green suit with an ugly sweater pattern for the party. On his head is a red Santa hat and currently he's looking down at the screen of his phone as he makes his way to the exit. He isn't leaving but he lingers near the door, looking between his phone screen and the faces of those coming and going... he seems distracted.
Madeline nods to Phoenix and glances back outside, resting a hand on Nix's arm for balance as her attention wanders
Amelie finds a seat, and sits quietly. Her guards come up and sit in chairs behind her.
Hyo ends up finishing off her drink and leans over on the bar, retrieving a pastel-blue flip phone that she works on typing some messages out on in the meantime.
Heathen moves around the bar, giving Madeline a nod when she comes in, but largely just trying to reassure people that everything is alright. "Enjoy your drinks folks, we'll let you know when the time comes to break furniture for firewood."
Madeline's brow furrows "how.. can someone hurt a storm?" she mutters
Sentinel is guarding the door protectively. She nods when Madeline comes in. "Yes. Inside. I will make sure no one gets hurt if the storm gets worse."
Guivre glances over when he heads Madeline but ultimately he looks down at his phone and taps something out before tucking it away and saying out loud, "I suppose I should still take the stage? Although I must admit, my focus is all but broken from this... storm." He isn't going to allude to anything concerning explosions and the like..
Madeline's eyes are still fixed on the door, her full attention out on the storm
Claude glances to Mikaël, giving him a curt nod before he heads outside, checking windows before moving around the building. Meanwhile, the lights flicker again, and suddenly the room is flooded with light as the Carousel comes back to life, staring to rotate again.
Phoenix glances up to the suddenly moving carousel once again "Well, power is a good thing" he ponders.
Hyo jumps in surprise and looks down when her seat and the bar in general is starting to move again. She rubs her eyes to help herself adjust to the light but it seems to be enough to help her start relax. She continues to text for now, many at the bar turned off to their own friends and companions they had come in with before if they had not left.
The musicians on the stage all look toward the front, and slowly place their instruments down, and start to leave the stage. Mikaël hears Guivre, and nods, "Oui, let us start the show! The lights are back on, and we should continue. I have security making sure everything is in working order, so do not worry yourself, mes amies."
Madeline gasps suddenly and looks about to see who is here
Heathen gives Phoenix a wide smile. "Weirdly enough, the idea that we'd have trouble at times did occur. Natural gas backup generator. Kicks on when the main power stays off for a certain length of time."
Phoenix ahhs and nods "Makes sense...seems a waste to have all of the lights on and running in a possible weather emergency. Does it use a lot of gas?"
Madeline steps over quickly to Vegard and inserts herself at his side, speaking quietly into his ear
Hyo sets her phone down for the time being and rubs her face with a slightly weary and slightly guilty expression.
Mikaël greets the ones who just entered, "Welcome, mes amies, we have hot mulled wine at the table, and the lights are back on. The show is just starting." His tone is bright, even if his eyes still hold concern.
Guivre fires off another quick text and he drags Madeline along with him backstage, nodding her along and whispering something to her in French. When he disappears back stage there is a short pause before the show starts...
Heathen slips into the seat beside Hyo with a wide smile. "I know, nerve wracking, right? That's the whole point of the hurricane party. Forget about the hurricane with other like minded crazies."
Hyo peeks up at Heathen and writes in her notebook and nudges it over beside of her to be read by him, 'Do you think Eloise and the people at Roasters are okay? Told her I'd volunteer with injuries if there were any, but she said I could leave if I needed to.'
Mikaël slips over to Phoenix, and gives him a wan smile, "Well, my opening is at least memorable, oui?" His eyes move to the stage then as Guivre slips off into the dressing area.
Arya walks into the party, a large rain jacket over her head and she is accompanied by Vegard's chauffeur. She pushes it back to expose her head and blows a kiss at the room. "Hello darlings! Not staying long, but wanted to at least stop by!"
In from the weather. He looks at the boards and Azrael smirks, then walks inside. He looks around the room and seems appropriately impressed with the surroundings. He eases out of a coat and is only somewhat wet under it.
Sentinel frowns "Does anyone have a TV or anything? I wonder if there's news reports about what just blew up."
Phoenix laughs "Captive audience, love" he teases playfully. "We've got this. No worries."
Mikaël gives a bright smile that almost reaches his eyes as he sees Azreal and Arya enter, and gives them a flourishing bow, "Welcome mes amies, merci for braving the storm and joining us!"
Madeline shares some information with Guivre and texts another then sighs and relaxes a little, knowing there is nothing more she can do at the moment
Heathen gives Hyo a wide grin. "Oh, I've met Eloise. She's well capable of keeping things in hand. And the lights being on here means we might have a few stragglers in out of the storm ourselves."
Madeline steps over to find Phoenix and kisses his cheek with a soft word
Hyo looks a little relieved to hear Heathen's words and manages a gentle smile and nod in agreement. She writes down, 'You're right. I'll try not to think about it as much, thanks Heath. Want anything to sip on while you're working?'She places an order for another Bullet Milk Punch want waits to see if Heathen has an order too.
The lights in the room go down in a more controlled manner before focusing on the center stage where a large Santa sack is set. Guivre comes running out to the middle of the stage. "Happy Holidays, welcome to the show and let's give another round of applause for the venue... beautiful.. reminds me of my home." The Cajun accented fellow in the ugly sweater suit wipes a mock tear from his face with a theatrical effect. "And our gracious host." He gestures in Mikael's direction with a sweeping fleeting gesture before jumping into his next line of dialogue. "Now, I hope some of you have behaved this year because if this sack is entirely full of coal it is going to be a very boring..." He states as he starts to open the sack... a bird flies out and lands on his shoulder. "Nice of you to join us Archimedes."
Phoenix blinks to Madeline and whispers back
Madeline smiles an apology to Mikaël and nods to phoenix "I'll be back when I can" pulling her hood up again as she heads out.
Mikaël 's attention is diverted from waving as Guivre mentions him, to the two by him whispering.
Phoenix 's lips press together as Madeline ignores him and slips out.
Heathen makes sure that Arya and Arianna get a nice seat. "Glad you made it, getting a bit rough out there." Looking up as Madeline slips out.
Arianna spends a bit of time after entering hanging up a motorcycle helmet and pulling her hair out to be presentable. She smirks as the bird gets pulled out of the bag before turning a smile to Heathen and letting him manage the seating with a, "Thanks."
Hyo glances at Heathen and takes up her drink since he doesn't seem to be up for getting a drink yet. She turns to look up at Guivre on the stage, watching the show with an air of curiosity. She smiles and sets her notebook down in her lap to clap for not only the man performing, but also for Mikaël, Heathen, and all the other wonderful staff in the midst of working hard to keep the place up and running. She smiles wide at the sight of the bird flying out to land on his perch and claps once more in excitement.
Phoenix nods to Mikaël silently, one eye on the stage.
Tommy slips into the bar, shivering a bit as he undoes the poncho he was wearing to try and keep dry in the insane storm going on outside. Beneath he is mostly presentable, except for his soaked boots, which he spends a moment trying to clean. Tight, dark jeans, hob-nail boots, a shirt with some Psychobilly band on it, and his patch-covered leather jacket. He glances about the place curiously as he hangs the poncho up wherever he can. "Christ, it's crazy out there right now."
Arya walks over to say something to Mikaël as Madeline leaves, touches his arm, smiles and blows a kiss at Phoenix and then turns to go. "I have to get back to my own club tonight. But I had to stop by and say hi."
Mikaël arms still around Phoenix, he gives Tommy a wave as he enters, "Welcome, Monsieur, come in out of the storm, oui? Mulled wine is at the table, and the show is just really starting."
Phoenix stands near Mikaël, texting someone.
Heathen is currently neglecting himself to make sure everyone else is taken care of, but does make sure that Hyo gets another of her Punch drinks. "Sorry, sometimes my attention wanders a bit. It's a little hectic tonight."
Guivre steels his expression and the outgoing orator on the stage looks visibly worried at the sight of Madeline (followed by Arya) slipping out into the storm. He misses a beat in his show and there is an overlong pause before he catches the awkward moment with a winning grin, "Now let's see..." He dips back into the bag and he pulls out small box, "Who gets the first gift?" Holding it out to the crowd to see who was willing to play along with the magic show for the season.
Azrael nods to Arya and winks at Arianna, then walks in to have a look around. There is a moment he studies Guivre and seems to be considering something for a moment. After that, he finds his way in the general direction of Mikaël for the time being.
Hyo gets a sip from her drink and looks back over at Heathen. She waves her hands in front of herself towards him in an effort to silently tell him it's okay. She looks back up at Guivre when he starts to call for volunteers, holding her hand up in the air and waving it in an effort to make sure that she's at least among the contenders in the room.
Mikaël gives Azreal a smile as he approaches but his attention seems to mainly be on the stage, "It is bad out there, oui?" He asks the man. "We lost one of the displays off the roof, and the lights for a while, but they came back on."
Heathen (from behind her back) points at Hyo to 'double her chances' at getting picked, just trying to remain observant and alert.
Tommy moves into the place, while he stuffs his inked hands into the pockets of his jacket to warm them up a bit after coming in from outside. He takes everything in curiously, a small smile on his face, even as his teeth chatter a bit.
Guivre nods in his Santa hat and silly suit, striding off stage and hopping down to go bring the gift to Hyo, "Well, you'll have to open it now and tell us if you like it." Guy is still looking over his shoulder and speaking loud enough to make a stage show out of the interaction.
Inside the box is a hundred dollar bill torn into six pieces.
Phoenix stands with Mikaël, watching the surroundings with silent contemplation.
One of the wait staff hands Tommy a glass of mulled wine, and tells him "There's a table over there with samples from the cafe if you are hungry, enjoy!"
Hyo grins and bounces in her seat when Guivre makes his way to her with the gift. She reaches out to accept it gingerly, turning it over without risking tipping out any of the contents before she's ready. She works on unwrapping it afterwards, trying to be careful about the wrapping paper without making Guivre and the audience wait -forever- on her to get enough of it pristine enough to keep. When she sees the contents, she tries to pick up one of the shredded bill pieces to figure out what it is. Though she looks a little confused, she tries to offer Guivre a polite thumbs up.
Mikaël smiles as he watches Guivre with Hyo, raising his head to see what is in the box.
Amelie remains quiet, sitting at the side table, her guards sitting behind her. She watches the show and smiles lightly.
Heathen steps up and take a seat on the revolving Carousel Bar.
"Oh. No. You got a terrible one... that's almost as bad as coal, here... let me fix it for you." He reaches out to put the lid back on the box and his sleight of hand fails him (we'll blame the distractions this evening) it is pretty apparent when he makes the switch. He puts a lemon inside the box and taps the top. "Open it back up and cut your lemon in half." Guivre instructs, handing her a pocket knife before leaving her to the task and jogging back to the stage.
Heathen checks his phone, and fires off a text as he watches the trick
"It is quite a storm out there." Azrael agrees with Mikaël. He offers a hand to shake and adds, "I congratulate you my friend. You are a hit even in the midst of the nasty storm." He laughs as he looks around at the people gathered and back to Mikaël. He notes something on that look around, but that will keep for the moment.
Tommy turns to watch the show as he finds a seat at an empty table. He slides into it and stretches. The youth then focuses his attention on Guivre and Hyo, plucking his tattooed hands from his jacket.
Hyo tilts her head on its side to watch Guivre work on fixing the present he had offered her, accepting the pocket knife offered to her. She turns it around and opens it, careful not to cut her fingers, before she opens the box. She still looks surprised and wide-eyed to find a lemon in the shredded bill's place, just as the prophet Guivre predicted. How much of it is for the show, is hard telling. She peeks to make sure that Heathen is prepared since him and her are both in optimal lemon squirting range, then sets to work on trying to halve the lemon as she was told.
Sentinel skitters back from the bar a bit as the lemon comes out. She's not quite sure what's going on with it and is a bit wary.
Mikaël nods to Azrael, "I was just telling Phoenix that at least it is memorable, oui? You are from the same area, you know that we continue to party even as the water comes over the levees. Que sera sera..." He does lean forward and speak to the other man quietly.
"I will be handing out gifts for the rest of the evening..." Doing little feats of street magic, milling through the crowd, "Anyone who wants one, don't be shy. Tis the season!" Guivre calls this and he doesn't looks back as Hyo find a drippy taped hundred dollar bill inside the lemon. Those familiar with the trick know it's a different bill BUT it is taped in six places to justify the illusion. How'd it get in the lemon? Carefully.
Heathen applauds the trick, patting Hyo gently on the shoulder as her adventurous spirit pays off.
Arianna looks amused at Guivre's invitation and slides back to her feet to saunter over and give him a sly, expectant grin and a, "Fun show."
Hyo giggles silently and holds up the pieced together one-hundred dollar bill, making sure that the crowd near her can see that she did manage to extract her new soggy gift from the lemon. She leans over to let Heathen see the bill, then goes back to admiring it curiously. Even if she could see the lemon when it was placed, it was still a mystery how he fit it in the lemon in the first place! The wonders of magic are at play, surely.
Sentinel applauds. "Oh. It was in the lemon. How clever!" she smiles brightly.
Tommy glances about the place now and again from where he is seated, taking it all in curiously. He brushes a fingertip along the edge of the table, and then glances out towards the door and the storm beyond. He returns his gaze to the club, then.
Amelie claps for Guivre. "Good show!" She remains in her seat, just staying out of the way and out of trouble. Her guards glare around at others.
Mikaël applauds as the bill returns, and nods to Guivre. "I think Mademoiselle Arianna needs a gift, non?"
"Laissez les bons temps rouler." Azrael agrees and then leans forward to listen to whatever Mikaël whispers. He turns his attention towards the door for a moment and comments, "Really?" quietly. He frowns and reaches for his phone. He lets it stay in his pocket though, shaking his head, "She's a big girl, she'll call if she needs."
Arianna turns her grin toward Mikaël and winks playfully, "You know, that makes a great statement for any occasion."
Hyo carefully pockets her newfound gift and sips from her drink, a happy smile on her features. The worries of before are gone for now, and she's content to watch Guivre make his rounds and see who's going to be the next lucky gift recipient.
Mikaël glances to Phoenix, and nods. Then nods as well to Azrael, before he breaks into a bright smile at Arianna's comment, and salutes her with his glass before taking a sip from it.
Phoenix texts something and glances up to see whets going on in the show.
Madeline's cloaked form appears at the door again, catching her breath before lowering her hood from her hair
Phoenix glances to the door and smiles warmly, motioning her his way.
Tommy remains seated at his empty table. He ends up withdrawing a batted back of cards from a pocket on his jacket. Due to the poncho he wore on the way he, it is dry. He glances over as a new face enters. He then begins slowly shuffling and cutting the cards.
Heathen leans over to have a talk with the band members, and they strike up 'Santa Baby', if a bit quietly to not interrupt conversation, glancing up as Madeline comes back in
Guivre bustles over to Arianna with Mikael's urging, "Certainly, certainly." He flops the Santa sack off his shoulder an dips a hand in again, fishing around until he finds a long flower box... the trick seems to be in the sheer size of the box. It shouldn't fit in the Santa sack of its dimensions are true to life.
Hyo smiles and claps for Guivre when the large box comes out, though she peeks over around some of the room. She waves over at Tommy in greeting when she notices him and pushes up to wander over and sit with him for now. She writes down on her notebook and pushes it across the table so that he may read it if he wants, 'Hey, how are you Tommy? Sleep okay last night?' Hyo stands and takes a step down off the revolving Carousel Bar.
Mikaël 's face looks relieved as he spots Madeline return. His attention is then divided again as he watches Guivre with Arianna at the same time.
Madeline slips off her heavy green cloak to reveal the gorgeous dress and the woman in it. Stepping back into the party she smiles and nods to those who seek her out "pardon moi, I'm terribly late"
Phoenix leans in to Madeline, speaking softly
Madeline tips her cheek to Phoenix and kisses his cheek with a nod and soft smile
Arianna does raise a brow at the size of the box, not quite sure whether to be impressed or not. Though she grins once she pries it open and gives Guivre a pleased, "Oh, lovely. I do need to add more color in the new apartment."
Walking in her direction, Azrael nudges Amelie where she is sitting, "Good evening." He looks at her guards with little interest and then back to Amelie, "How does the night find you?"
Phoenix nods to Madeline in understanding, "I'm glad you're here" he tells her, then glances around to seek out Mikaël.
"It seems to be happening again. Try closing the box..." Guivre urges and when she(if) she does he gives the box a few magical little pats and upon opening it once more the paper mache roses have been replaced by real roses. "Ah, that's better, less gaudy if you ask me.." He snort-chuckles and throws the bag back over his shoulder, whistling a Christmas tune and going to find his next gift-ee.
Heathen shakes his head a little as Madeline starts making her rounds. "I'm glad I'm not out in this."
Amelie smiles to Azrael, "Bon Soir, Azrael. I am alright. Better than yesterday for sure." She looks to Roscoe and DeSoto with a look of, 'really? stop glaring'. "Sorry, my guys have me on a short leash right now. How are you?"
Madeline lays her hand on Phoenix's arm and nods "show me around" she asks then smiles and nods to Heathen "As am I cher"
Arianna gives Guivre another light laugh as her roses get transformed, "Ha! Nice stunt. And pretty too."
Phoenix nods to Madeline, murmuring to her and walking around the place. "He's done a lot of work on it. I'm really proud of him."
Mikaël ducks his head at Phoenix's praise, "You helped, and you know you did." He says, then smiles to Madeline. "Glad you managed to come in out of the storm. Safely."
Madeline smiles as she lets Nix show her the place and moves to the back, leaning over to kiss Mikael's cheek with a bright smile "It's beautiful Mikaël, congratulations!
Sentinel smiles. "Truly a work of art." she says, looking around a bit tensely.
Phoenix nods "No one should be out in that mess" he agrees.
Tommy chews his lip as he keeps glancing back at the door, as if the inked youth is considering heading back out into the insanity out there for one reason or another. He shuffles the deck of cards a few more times as he thinks.
Arianna strolls over to show off her box of roses to Madeline with a pleased grin, and one for Mikaël too.
Madeline turns to Arianna with a bright smile and kisses the woman's cheek "Beautiful
Tommy glances up at Hyo and offers a small smile. "Oh, hey again. I slept fine, sure. Just fine." He cocks his head to the side, watching the girl across from him. "How about you?"
As Guivre finishes up his show, the band has been making their way back up on stage. They break into another number, another Holiday tune for now. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnCMaH_mAac
Azrael shrugs as he admits, "Well enough." He looks at the guards and smirks. He looks back at you, "I don't think they're ever going to like me, but that's OK. It's fun to be annoying to people." He looks back at her and adds, "Glad you are better. I have been out of sorts of late. Sorry."
Hyo smiles and offers Tommy a thumbs up to be seen. She leans forward to look over the cards he plays with curiously, pointing at them with a questioning expression on her face.
Dashiel is here. He has actually been around the entire time, but fading happily into the background while enjoying the evening. It had been a long couple days, and it was nice to simply relax and forget about the world ending outside.
Madeline lifts a hand to Azrael when she hears his voice
Tommy glances down at the cards and chuckles. "I suck at card tricks, but always wanted to learn them. Just practicing shuffling, I guess." He shows her by shuffling them a few times in a rather showy way. It's not perfect, but he's coming along.
Amelie nods to Azrael, "There has been much going on for all of us. I have missed talking with you. Hopefully we can make up for that shortly. You can join me at the table if you wish."
Hyo claps for Tommy's sake after he's finished, and writes down a little note for him to read, 'You are very good. I could never shuffle the cards like that by myself. I just have to pick chunks by hand and put them in different spots in the deck.'
Azrael sits down at a side table.
Tommy grins softly at that and nods. "Well, I sure couldn't at first. Everything comes with practice." He shuffles them again, slower, so she can see. He then slides the deck across the table to Hyo. "Try that."
Azrael takes a seat at the table across from Amelie and settles. Clearly enjoying the fact that it annoys her body guards. He settles a bit and admits, "We have to get together and catch up soon. Some of my time might free up soon, until the next disaster of course."
Heathen stands and takes a step down off the revolving Carousel Bar.
Madeline drifts over to the table and leans lightly against Azrael's chair "bon soir mes ami"
Hyo waves over at Dashiel in friendly greeting, trying to coax him over. When she's presented the cards, she picks them up and tries to mimic what Tommy did before. She splits them down the middle and tries to get them to flex and layer together by freeing it slowly. It's not nearly as smooth as it could be and some chunks that slip through probably won't end up as shuffled as they could be.
"Entering the magic business, Hyo?" Dashiel asks when he spots her amongst the crowd waving and wanders over to where she and Tommy are playing with the cards. When he gets close to the pair he gives a polite nod to both. "Evening. So glad to see this has gone well despite the - ah - cards being stacked against it."
Marvin comes out from behind the stage, pushing a large screen over in front of the stage area. He glances around to those gathered, and the old bartender, nods to the crowd, "Forgives mem folks, done been look' fer somethin' ta play dis 'ere tape on, seein' as how dis storm done blew everythin' to 'ell 'n back, non?"
Tommy smiles softly as he watches her try, and he nods. "Hey, not bad. Certainly better then when I first tried. Shot cards everywhere the first time I tried like I was in some goddamn cartoon." He reaches out to take the cards from her and shows her again. The inked up punk grins a bit as he does it again, and then slides the cards over to her again. "You can do it." He glances over at the approaching Dashiel. "Hey. Yeah, it's nuts outside, isn't it? Crazy."
Jolene was unsure if she would be able to make it over tonight, with the storm and unexpected call from the hospital for volunteers who could make it in to help. But here she is, fashionably on time for her this evening as she steps in Bourbon and Bedlam. in long Crimson and black gown. She stops after the door closes and looks around to find any familiar faces.
Mikaël chuckles softly at Marvin, glancing over to Heathen and nodding, mouthing "This is the story, mon ami." He spots Jolene enter, and moves to greet her, "Bonsoir, and welcome! So good to see you managed to make it through the storm."
Azrael lets his head lean back and rest against Madeline when she arrives. He finally turns towards her and winks, "Good evening dear. It's nice to see you. Everything OK?"
Hyo shakes her head at Dashiel, but smiles at him all the same. She even manages to silently giggle at Dashiel's choice of words. When the cards are taken and passed back to her, she breathes a deep breath and tries again, getting results that are at least a little better than last time. She pushes the cards back over to Tommy and writes, 'People are together and feeling calm here at least, so that's a good thing. If things do get bad, we'll pull together and figure out something to do. Want to sit with us?'
Sentinel smiles. "So many people celebrating. I think things are safe. I should probably check outside to make sure of that."
Jolene smiles warmly at Mikaël and offers and offers a very respectful nod of her head. "I was unsure Mikaël, but I would not miss it for the world." She offers him a squeeze of his hand reassuringly. "I hope I have not missed too much, my friend?"
Amelie waves to Madeline, who is not far from her now either, "Bon Soir, mon ami." Her guards seem happier to see Madeline for some reason.
Madeline rises from where she leans against Azrael and smiles, holding out a hand to Jolene "bon soir dear" then steps around the table to kiss Amelie's cheek "how are you dear"
Heathen helps Jolene in as she arrives, and the door closed against the wind motioning toward the warm drinks. "Help yourself. I think the next act is about to start."
Tommy nods in approval to Hyo's second attempt. He ends up tucking the cards back into their case, and pushing them into a pocket on his leather jacket. "Yeah, go ahead and join us. Name's Tommy," he offers to the other man.
Amelie returns the kiss to Madeline's cheek. "I am well, thank you. Everything has been quiet since yesterday."
"I'm not sure crazy does it justice. Yeah, it's something else." Dashiel replies to Tommy, then pauses to watch Hyo make another attempt at the cards. He grins at her progress and then nods to the note. "Love to, thanks. I'm Dashiel. Just Dash is fine. Nice to meet you, Tommy." He extends a hand to shake as he takes a seat joining Hyo and Tommy.
Jolene gently takes the offered hand of Madeline and squeezes it reassuringly. As she looks around the room she looks happy, glowing practically and offers a hug to Heathen, "Will you be performing tonight Mister Heath?"
Marvin fuddles with the player for several minutes, cursing under his breath in Cajun French before he gets thing situated to his liking. The lights dim a bit, except for the glow coming from the Carousel. "Havin' to does this, no light show. Dis snowin' outside!" Shakes his head as if he can't believe it. "But dey films dis dey others night, dem, 'n so I shows dis to you fine folkies. Now I ain'ts no Hollywoods, so non real goods, but we get done up in dere wid dis, us." He grins to them all, and goes into his story. The screen shows the outside courtyard, and the displays when they are lighted up.
Twas the night before Christmas an’ all t’ru de house, Dey don’t a ting pass Not even a mouse. De chirren been nezzle good snug on de flo’, An’ Mama pass de pepper t’ru de crack on de do’.
De Mama in de fireplace done roas’ up de ham, Sit up de gumbo an’ make de bake yam. Den out on de by-you dey got such a clatter, Make soun’ like old Boudreau done fall off his ladder.
I run like a rabbit to got to de do’, Trip over de dorg an’ fall on de flo’. As I look out de do’in de light o’ de moon, I t’ink, “Mahn, you crazy or got ol’ too soon.”
Cux dere on de by-you w’en I stretch ma’neck stiff, Dere’s eight alligator a pullin’ de skiff. An’ a little fat drover wit’ a long pole-ing stick, I know r’at away got to be ole St.Nick.
Mo’ fas’er an’ fas’er de’ gator dey came He whistle an’ holler an’ call dem by name: “Ha, Gaston! Ha, Tiboy! Ha, Pierre an’ Alcee’! Gee, Ninette! Gee, Suzette! Celeste an’Renee’!
To de top o’ de porch to de top o’ de wall, Make crawl, alligator, an’ be sho’ you don’ fall.” Like Tante Flo’s cat t’ru de treetop he fly, W’en de big ole houn’ dorg come a run hisse’s by.
Like dat up de porch dem ole ‘gator clim! Wit’ de skiff full o’ toy an’ St. Nicklus behin’. Den on top de porch roof it soun’ like de hail, W’en all dem big gator, done sot down dey tail.
(Cajun Night Before Christmas: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IH0WoRP_too)
Madeline smiles warmly at Amelie "I am happy to hear it Amelie" she says then turns her head as Jolene joins and kisses the girl's cheek in welcome
Hyo turns in her seat to look up at the stage and listen when the story starts to play. She looks a little confused by the accent and some of the words, but still seems familiar with it all the same. She leans over her half of the table top for now and sips from her cocktail she brought with her.
Tommy reaches out to take Dashiel's hand and shakes it with his own inked-up digits. "Nice to meet you, too." His own accent isn't local. Possibly somewhere Midwestern?
Heathen gives Jolene a grin. "Was planning on it, but plans are the first casualty and all. We'll see."
Sentinel heads over to Madeline smiling. She kisses her cheek. "I'm going to patrol." she says softly. She smiles at Jolene and Amelie since they are nearby. "It was nice to watch people." with that Sentinel looks up. She applauds Marvin, and then heads quietly for the door.
Amelie looks over to Marvin and listens to his story and grins. She's never heard this before!
Jolene warmly offers the same greeting to Madeline and a warm hug as well. "It is good to see you here Maddie. I was not sure who would be able to make it tonight but it almost seems half the city has come out in support!"
Mikaël nods to Jolene, "It has been a bad afternoon and night, but I think we are going to pull through just fine now. The police and emergency people have been coming and going at the cafe all day for foods, and big containers of coffee. I help in the ways I can. We had plenty since we had planned a sampler at the cafe today, but had to cancel because of the storm."
"Seems everyone I meet is from out of town. Prospect brings people in from all over, I suppose." Dashiel remarks while getting comfortable in his seat, surely noting Tommy's accent even if he can't place it. He also falls silent for a few minutes while the performance takes place, clapping politely at the end before looking back to Hyo and Tommy at the table.
Amelie waves to Jolene. "Bon Soir, mon ami." She sits at her table with Azrael, and her two guards behind her.
On stage Marvin is finishing up his story, hopping and waving his arms around as he tries to act it out as much as his old bones can manage. His face is bright and happy though, and he is quite the storyteller despite his advanced years. At the last line he waves merrily, and grins before he begins to roll the screen back behind the stage.
Den down de chimney I yell wit’ a bam, An’ St.Nicklus fall an’ sit on de yam. “Sacre!” he axclaim, “Ma pant got a hole I done sot ma’se’f on dem red hot coal.”
He got on his foots an’ jump like de cat Out to de flo’ where he lan’ wit’ a SPLAT! He was dress in musk-rat from his head to his foot, An’ his clothes is all dirty wit’ ashes an’ soot.
A sack full o’ playt’ing he t’row on his back, He look like a burglar an’ dass fo’ a fack. His eyes how dey shine his dimple, how merry! Maybe he been drink de wine from de blackberry.
His cheek was like a rose his nose a cherry, On secon’ t’ought maybe he lap up de sherry. Wit’ snow-white chin whisker an’ quiverin’ belly, He shook w’en he laugh like de stromberry jelly!
But a wink in his eye an’ a shook o’ his head, Make my confi-dence dat I don’t got to be scared. He don’ do no talkin’ gone strit to hi work, Put a playt’ing in sock an’ den turn wit’ a jerk.
He put bot’ his han’ dere on top o’ his head, Cas’ an eye on de chimney an’ den he done said: “Wit’ all o’ dat fire an’ dem burnin’ hot flame, Me I ain’ goin’ back by de way dat I came.”
So he run out de do’ an, he clim’ to de roof, He ain’ no fool, him for to make one more goof. He jump in his skiff an’ crack his big whip, De’ gator move down, An don’ make one slip. An’ I hear him shout loud as a splashin’ he go, “Merry Christmas to all ’til I saw you some mo’!”
Hyo lifts her hands up and applauds by the end of the story, smiling warmly. She notices Jolene and the others, lifting her hand to wave over at her and Mikaël, before she leans down and starts to work on writing another note. She nudges it over to Dashiel and Tommy to read, 'That was an interesting version of the story! I liked how they really made it their own.'
Jolene offers to Mikaël, "If there is anything I can do to help my friend, just let me know. I would be happy to volunteer to keep the natives from becoming restless." She too is enjoying the performances though, and smiles at Amelie offering her a hug as well. "Good to see you Amelie!"
Arianna just kinda hangs around, flower box cradled in an arm while enjoying the show. She adds some applause at the end of it, as Santa and his gators take off.
Madeline applauds the show with a bright smile
Amelie returns Jolene's hug. "It is a pleasure to see you as well, Jolene."
Azrael frowns and looks his phone. He rolls his eyes and puts it away. He looks over the table to Amelie and shakes his head, "I really should turn this thing off."
Jolene offers an applause to the version of the story that makes her laugh, and waves back to Hyo too as she catches her eye. "I am glad to see you are doing well Amelie, and Azrael too is here." Offering him a hug and kiss to his forehead. "A pleasure to see you as well Miss Hyo."
Amelie grins. "You are a popular guy. Hopefully it is not trouble calling."
Heathen gives his own applause as well, having a little talk with the band and they can start his own little light hearted song about the end of the world, making fun of it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCWBxxEJiGc&list=PLJZH8sevmMq4yD3ezQ3jFJfw68ZU1f_NS&index=31
Claude wanders back in from outside, and nods to Mikaël, then circles the room before finding a vantage point to settle himself quietly.
Madeline looks about for a drink and smiles at Azrael "Turn it off occasionally, just now and then
Mikaël smiles to Amelie, "Do you feel up to doing a number, mon amie, if not do not trouble yourself, oui?"
Angie stepped into the building and glanced around. She noted the faces and started for a table, grabbing a glass of something before settling down for the festivities. She held no expression to her face figuring the event would lift her spirits. She was dressed simply in a festive form flattering red dress and matching shoes
Amelie nods to Mikaël, "Certainly, I can perform." She looks then to those around her table, her eyes dart straight to Azrael and then Madeline about something, and then stands up. Her guards follow her.
Madeline notices Angie's entrance and nods to her if the girl happens to look over
"Agreed." Dashiel replies after reading Hyo's note. "Everything has been very nice. I'm glad we decided to brave the weather this afternoon to come over here." His eyes scan the room, noticing that more entertainment seems to be imminent.
Mikaël gives Angie a smile as she sits down, "Bonsoir, and welcome. Pleased you could make it through the storm!"
Angie looks up and notices Madeline's nod and she nodded in return...she then lifted the glass to her lips and tasted the hot mulled wine.
Hyo smiles in greeting and dips her head down towards Jolene when she's noticed. She finishes off her drink and waves at Angie in greeting before she takes up her notebook to start idly flipping through it. Reading some of the past messages written on it, and some chicken scratch and doodles on the margins. Her head bobs in agreement with Dashiel and she writes down something to hold up to him, 'Might have to stay the night in the other room though, depending on how tall the snow has gotten.'
Claude seems a bit more alert as Amelie moves to the stage, and he positions himself nearby discreetly.
Azrael stands and leaves a side table.
Jolene finally finds a place to sit down and enjoy the show, but only after squeezing Hyo's shoulder, to let her know she did not go missed. Soon she is fading into the background let others around her shine, and offering support anywhere Mikaël could use her this evening. (Sadly it is time for me to head out too.)
Azrael watches Amelie prepare to sing and winks at her. He stands and wanders over to Madeline and Jolene, "Ladies have a good evening. It's always trouble when it makes noise." He looks towards Mikaël and offers a nod to him as well and gives him a thumbs up and then heads out into the night and storm again.
Amelie smiles as she walks up onto the stage. Her guards stand next to the stage on each side, arms crossed, watching everyone. "Merci, Mikaël for inviting me to perform. I have a light, fun number I've prepared." She turns to a few musicians that have stepped onto the stage with her, and nods to them to start. She stands behind the microphone, her gold dress shimmering in the light. She begins to sing with her perfect pitch, and clarity:
I threw a wish in the well, Don't ask me I'll never tell I looked at you as it fell, And now you're in my way I trade my soul for a wish, Pennies and dimes for a kiss I wasn't looking for this, But now you're in my way Your stare was holding, Ripped jeans, Skin was showing Hot night, Wind was blowing, Where you think you're going baby?
Hey I just met you, And this is crazy, But here's my number So call me maybe It's hard to look right at you baby, But here's my number So call me maybe
Madeline smiles and kisses Azrael's cheek softly "Walk safely in the night my friend
Dashiel smiles when he reads the note and gives a small nod of his head. "Well, it wouldn't be much worse than crashing at the coffee shop. Though, I look forward to eventually sleeping in a proper bed again." He idly watches Hyo flip through the pages. "Do you keep the notebooks?" He wonders. "You'd have one side of every conversation you've ever had." His question trails off a bit when Amelie begins performing, his attention drawn back to the stage to listen.
Heathen gives Azreal a nod as he heads out to brave the storm. "I'm sure between the two buildings, we can find everyone appropriate lodging until this blows past."
Hyo nods her head at Dashiel to confirm his question and makes a note for him to read, 'I usually use the paper I've used to make origami so it doesn't feel like it's as wasted. If it's special though, I'll keep it without folding it so that I may read it again and have the memories.' She looks up at Amelie and claps encouragingly before the music starts.
Amelie sways back and forth, singing this jazzy version of the well known song. She lights up as she signs, her eyes bright, and the melodious tone of her voice entrancing:
You took your time with the call, I took no time with the fall You gave me nothing at all, But still you're in my way I beg and borrow and steal, At first sight and it's real I didn't know I would feel it, But it's in my way Your stare was holding, Ripped jeans, Skin was showing Hot night, Wind was blowing, Where you think you're going baby?
Hey I just met you, And this is crazy, But here's my number So call me maybe And all the other boys, Try to chase me, But here's my number So call me maybe
Before you came into my life I missed you so bad, I missed you so bad, I missed you so so bad Before you came into my life I missed you so bad, And you should know that, I missed you so so bad
Hey I just met you, And this is crazy, But here's my number So call me maybe And all the other boys, Try to chase me, But here's my number So call me maybe
Madeline smiles warmly to hear Amelie's voice and listens, giving her full attention to the song Mikaël settles back against the wall where he is standing, a smile on his features as he listens and watches Amelie.
Madeline looks over and quietly drifts to Mikael's side with a smile
The music is catching, and Dashiel sways along with it in his seat. He nods his head to Hyo's explanation after she writes it out. "Making physical art out of your words. Likely something deeply philosophical about that that - but I'm pretty tired. For now I'll just say it's cool."
Heathen stops what he's doing for a moment, listening to Amelie, and glancing a moment at the door, and then sits at the bar, almost missing the moving chair... that will take some getting used to.
Hyo smiles gratefully at Dashiel and nods her head, writing down, 'Thank you! It's given me practice, but I still have a long way to go. Makes it all feel like I end up wasting a little less. Been signing when I speak with miss Eloise too, and teaching Mikaël sometimes, hope to do more. Maybe I'll eventually get to write a little less.'
Amelie curtsies to all as she finishes the song, turns to clap for the musicians that joined her, and then walks off the stage and back to her table.
Mikaël applauds loudly, "Excellente!"
Heathen gives Amelie subdued, but heartfelt applause. "Always showing everyone up with the music."
Angie watched the performance and applauded when it was over, she drank down the rest of her glass rather quickly
Madeline applauds Amelie and when she returns, hugs her "you are always so amazing dear friend"
Hyo puts herself to clap with a big smile and manages to let a whistle carry over towards the stage.
Amelie blushes, "Merci, mon ami. Singing brings out the best in me." She waves to those clapping, and remains her humble self, but with a smile from ear to ear.
Mikaël nudges Heath, and glances to the dressing area before he gives the others a grin, "If you will excuse Heath, I need him for the next number." He gives a thumbs up to Amelie as he moves off toward the back of the stage.
"If we keep running into each other, I'll have to beg you to teach me a bit too. Though, I'm sure it's not all that fun to teach half the city how to sign. Maybe I should make an effort to learn some on my own." Dashiel replies to Hyo while applauding the end of the song as well.
Heathen pats Mikaël on the shoulder with a grin and heads back stage with him for a moment.
Hyo grins at Dashiel and writes down for him, 'Could try to sometime if you wanted to learn. It's not so bad, just takes a little bit of coordination with your hands and repetition. I would definitely recommend taking it up if you wanted to, it does open up a world of communication to some people who can go a long time without it.'
Madeline smiles fondly at Heathen and Mikaël then retakes her seat with Amelie
Makiko quietly entered the building, her dark eyes surveying the room. She was dressed in black dress pants, boots and black and red top with hints of Japanese design. Her long hair was up in a messy bun and adorned with red flowers and jewels.
Tommy is sitting quietly at a table with Hyo and Dashiel (Unless they moved seats!). He seems distracted and lost in his own thoughts. When Makiko enters he glances over, and the inked youth blinks, his gaze dipping over her as he considers her for a long moment.
The original band comes back onstage, heavy with the brass section, and they set up quickly despite a couple missing from cancellation because of the storm. Mikaël comes back out in a few moments with Heathen, and hops up onto the stage with a flourish. Both of them are now dressed in identical black suits with white shirts, sunglasses and hats ~ Look everyone, it's the Blues Brothers! Mikaël kicks in first, starting to talk to the crowd in the same manner as was done in the movie, only altering a few words like the California police, instead of the Illinois ones. They launch into a rousing "Everybody Needs Somebody" managing to both do the song, and the dance, fairly well indeed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTLHaXmT-P4
"I shuffle cards about as well as you do, but I'm sure I could make my fingers do what they're supposed to do. I'll look into it." Dashiel reaches out to pick up his empty glass and eases up out of his chair, looking to Tommy and Hyo - "I'm going to go refresh my glass and wander a bit. I'll swing back in a bit. Nice to meet you, Tommy. Always a pleasure, Hyo."
Hyo nods up at Dashiel and offers him a warm smile, attempting to sign 'see you later' to see if he can decipher the meaning from concept.
Makiko gladly takes a glass of the mulled wine, trying something new. She moved to take a seat near Tommy and Hyo
Tommy glanced over when Makiko moved to sit nearby, and he smiled. "Hey there." He glanced between her and Hyo a few times. "I'm Tommy." He slid out and offered one of his tattooed hands to her. He glanced at Hyo, then. "Sorry, I...zone out sometimes. Always studying at home, and my brain sometimes pushes even when I want to relax."
Makiko shifted her dark eyes to Tommy, taking in his appearance, studying him a moment. She smiled and shook his hand. "it is nice to meet you Tommy...my name is Makiko...Maki for short if you wish..."
Hyo lifts her hand to wave at Makiko in greeting after she's settled in, smiling warmly at her as she listens to the song up on the stage. She writes down on her notebook and holds it up to be read by her, 'Hello, my name is Hyo, it is nice to meet you. I think I saw you at the club one night before?'
Heathen comes out doing the Balushi role, doing his best to project a lighthearted tone, clapping and bouncing around the stage like a complete amateur at dance karaoke.
Makiko looked to Hyo and smiled reading her tablet. She nodded and smiled again..."Yes we did"
Tommy nodded a bit to that. "Maki. Cool, I like that. Handling that crazy fucking storm well?," he asked curiously. He glanced towards the door, where it was pounding down wind and rain just beyond.
Hyo writes down on the paper, 'Everyone ended up scattering that night and things have become so hectic since then, sorry if I could not recall entirely. How have you been since then? Well I hope?' Belatedly she smiles reassuringly at Tommy to help him know not to worry about the quiet before.
Mikaël seems to be having a wonderful time at the moment. Perhaps he has forgotten for a brief time the storm outside as he and Heath try to rouse the crowd into dancing with them, or at least clapping, and enjoying themselves. When they get to the end up the number both throw their hands out to point at the crowd in unison, and tip their hats. He says into his mike then, "Thank you for your attention this evening, that about completes our show tonight. Afraid some of our scheduled performers couldn't manage to make it through the storm, and our prays go to them wherever they are right now." He brightens again though after the temporary frown. "Unless, of course, there are others who would like to just come up and have some fun. That is how it is done in New Orleans. A few people walk down the street, come across another strumming a guitar and before the afternoon goes far the three are playing like old friends. We have plenty of food, plenty of drink, so enjoy yourselves, oui!"
Makiko looked over at Tommy and nodded smiling, "Yes...it is crazy" She still held onto her Japanese accent. She looked to Hyo "I am alright"
Hyo lifts her hands up to clap for both Mikaël and Heathen on the stage, whistling out to them too! She dips her head to Makiko and offers her a thumbs up at the news before looking back to Tommy. She writes down to him, 'Think you know any card tricks that you want to practice on stage? Could be a lot of fun!'
Heathen steps off the stage, still in costume, and out into the crowd, motioning Tommy toward the stage with a grin. "You read the lady, can't disappoint the poor dear, can you?"
Amelie claps for the boys.
Mikaël grins as he moves to the floor, not changing either, but does remove the sunglasses. "That was fun, I love that movie, and the music."
Mikaël sits down at a side table.
Tommy leans in to read the note and then chuckles and shakes his head. "Don't know any yet. Still working on the shuffle, really." He then claps for the last act and sits back in his seat a bit.
Makiko finished the glass of wine and set the glass on the table. She too leaned back in her seat and watched Heath as he performed
Mikaël orders a Sazerac from Phillipe or Adrien. Phillipe or Adrien nods, and begins to mix your drink, making a show of it. Phillipe or Adrien hands Mikaël a Sazerac with a smile, and then steps over to the next customer.
Hyo grins at Tommy but dips her head in understanding before she writes out to Heathen, 'You were wonderful up there! Did you rehearse the act much before tonight?'
Amelie speaks softly to Mikaël at the table, and then points to Heathen, signaling him to get her a drink.
Heathen gives Hyo a big smile. "As a matter of fact, yes. Something we'd been doing for fun between, well, real practice."
Heathen grabs some of the warm spiced wine at the signal and brings it to Amelie. Good boy. Woof. ;) Heathen sits down at a side table.
Mikaël sips his drink, and looks over at Tommy and Hyo, giving them a smile, "If you should wish to simply give something a try, feel free, Monsieur. Everyone here started out with two left feet, and a frog in our throats."
Amelie smiles to Heathen, "Merci, mon ami." She takes a sip of the mulled wine and nods to Mikaël. "Excellent."
Mikaël looks up when someone comes through the door, and he gives Liraz a smile, "Bonsoir, welcome! Come in out of the storm. There is mulled wine, and appetizers on the table. If you need anything, you have only to ask, oui?"
The building is boarded up against the storm, the power is still going though, thanks to a natural gas backup generator, the carousel is lit and spinning, and the jazz band is playing softly in the background. There are likely a few patrons milling in corners, some maybe laying their head down in their hands to nap until things are calm enough to leave without being in too much danger.
Hyo giggles silently when Heathen goes to tend to Amelie so immediately, but waves at him with a smile as he goes. She looks back up at Mikaël and bobs her head in agreement with his sentiment on fubbling through art. When the man's turned his attention to the newcomer, Hyo lifts her hand to wave at Liraz for a pleasant greeting.
Mikaël glances around, and remarks, "I suppose considering that some either have nowhere to go, or are not anxious to get back out in the storm, perhaps I should think about making some arrangements for the night. We could always move tables together, and lay out some Baptist pallets."
As if in protest to the storm, Bina's retained her normal attire and refused evacuation. Her sole contrition to the weather being the addition, while concealed of several layers of thermal underwear and a black rain slicker and a worn raw hide cowboy hat in order to shield her face from the rain. Beneath the slicker she wears a tight, thick zipped up leather jacket, a black turtle neck, black leather gloves, heavy black leather work boots and faded blue jeans.
Stomping her feet as she enters, shaking off the snow as she glances around the place, lips forming a hard line across her face. Panning her gaze over the patrons she was drawn by both the functioning lighting, and the promise of two of her favorite things. Bourbon being one, Bedlam being the other. Long legs bring her rapidly to the bar where she raps her knuckles heavily on the hard wood and orders three fingers of straight Bourbon.
Palming her hat from her head she shakes it clear of snow and sets it down on the bar beside her.
Phillipe gives a grin to Liraz, and prepares her bourbon, spinning the bottle before pouring it precisely. "Here you go, ma'am," he tells her before moving on to the next customer at the bar.
Hyo gets out her phone after it buzzes and flips it open to check on its contents. She types out some responses in turn and stands up, writing down something to hold up for Mikaël, 'Got to go, have a safe ride though. Will try to make it back before the night is through, or text when I get somewhere safe to turn in. Wonderful opening night! Will be sure to leave a donation soon.' She waits for him to have a chance to read it, then turns and makes her way out of the room.
Mikaël nods and thanks Hyo, then looks to Heathen. "I meant to check, to see if we did well with the contributions for Sister Constance. The children had so wanted to do their little show this afternoon, but I could not chance them out in this storm."
Bringing her gaze back to the bar, and the bartender there spinning the bottle. She offers nothing verbal to the exchange with the sole exception of sliding some bills across the bar toward him before tugging off her glove sand picking up the glass before her. Knocking it back with practiced ease she clears her throat, sets the glass down and picks up a napkin to blow her nose. Crumpling the paper up in one hand she wraps her knuckles on the bar and flashes him three fingers, clearly indicating she wants another of the same. " Do you have a paper cup? " Clearing her throat she peels off her gloves, revealing heavy tattooing on the back of both her hands. The artwork there faded to a sort of dull institutional green.
It is Adrien this time that responds to Liraz, and he nods quietly, handing her a foam coffee cup. He pours her bourbon, but does so a bit differently than Phillipe. He starts it at the glass level, then raises the bottle high in the air to let it fill to the right level before cutting it off at the precise time. Both mixologists seem excellent at their chosen profession. He gives her a smile, and pushes the glass toward her. "Anything else?"
Shaking her head, Bina slides over a few more bills. Taking the paper cup she stuffs her crumpled napkin in to it and leaves it on the bar. Picking up the glass of Bourbon she surveys it for a moment, turning to the side as she glances over as the door opens, surveying the new arrival for a moment before turning her gaze on the others. Taking a sip from her glass she lets the Bourbon burn in to her tongue for a moment before swallowing and finally addressing the bartender. " No. "
Amelie sips her wine and looks around. She says to Mikaël, "I think your place is going to be quiet popular, mon ami."
Tommy is sitting at a table. The inked-up youth seems lost in thought, as he has gotten a few times tonight. He adjusts the collar on his leatherjacket, and the psychobilly punk turns to glance about the place briefly, as if considering what to do now.
Mikaël says, “I hope so, my little cafe is at least doing well enough to support its self now. I am afraid that plans went a bit wrong with the opening, but I am proud to have had so many come out and help us open, but I feel bad as well. They had to travel in this horrible weather."”
Heathen gives group a wide grin. "Well, power is still on, we're still open, AND giving away free food and warm drinks during a Blizzard. It'll certainly be talked about for a while."
Sentinel peeks in from patrolling "Things are all right outside." she says, shaking off some snow. "Just letting you guys know."
