[It’s around 11 PM when they arrive at the Red Divine. Unlike Henry, Amelia has not dressed up. If asked about it, she just says “I haven’t decided on a look yet,” and leaves it at that. When they arrive she’s still dressed in her casual and modest clothing and it doesn’t look like she’s brought anything else with her.
She nods and gives Henry a small smile as he opens the door for her.]
Thank you. We’re a little early but that’s fine.
[The interior of the Red Divine is as rich as its name. Dim but warm lighting washes over the wooden counter and stool seats. Glasses and bottles of various liquors gleam under the lamps. There’s a stage with a grand piano and working sound system near the back and there are two musicians in the middle of working on adjusting the speakers and their guitars already while guests mill about drinking, chatting, and winding down for the evening. Around the stage are tall standing tables draped with red table cloths, set up for the audience who are there for the performance.
Amelia leads Henry to the bar counter first.]
We don’t have to sit near the front just yet. When I go here, I usually just linger at the counter to nurse a drink until Simone, the singer comes out.
… I don’t think we’ve done any drinking at home, have we? Unless you’ve been in my cabinet without me knowing.
[Henry has probably noticed by now, during his prolonged stay that the witch does treat herself generously to dark reds from time to time.]
[The low lighting, the amber tones. Inviting in that quiet, intimate way. Though he supposes quiet is not always a guarantee in a place like this -- though there is the air of the guests already winding down the evening when they've just arrived.
That's fine by him, of course, being inherently anti-social as he is. Just as Amelia's declaration of not immediately sitting near the front earns a nod of approval.]
The bar's fine by me, too.
[He'll take a seat next to her, wherever she chooses to sit. His elbows lean on the bartop slightly.]
I'm actually not much of a drinker. But it's not like I've had time to grow my tastes when it comes to alcohol. I'm sure I can take a drink now and again for the sake of an outing. Let me guess... You want to order wine?
[She sniffs at Henry's question and runs her fingers through her hair.]
Perhaps. I suppose I've been rather predictable regarding my drink choices.
But who knows? We can try something different based on what the owners recommend.
[Speaking of, a young woman with warm brown skin and curly dark hair approaches them both, making her way behind the counter. Her dark eyes glance at Henry and for a brief second, there's a flash of not necessarily recognition, but more of "like calls to like."
An esper. But she greets the witch first with a genial smile.]
"Miss Steinbeck! You're finally here! Simone was so pouty last month when you didn't... Oh! And with your house guest."
[Amelia nods her head in acknowledgement.]
Bianca. I'm glad we could make it. Could you get us started with something light? I'll leave it up to you.
[Bianca smiles and nods, moving to the other side of the bar to leave the two of them be. Amelia turns back to Henry.]
The owners are a husband and wife duo. Bianca was also one of my students when I first started teaching.
... It appears she could sense you at first glance.
[... Yes, there is that fact about Henry that can't be overlooked. He had admitted as much to her about how the human shell he has now may be his original appearance but his other form and even his current makeup was inhuman in contrast. Amelia sighs.]
Well, luckily for you, neither Bianca nor Aiden are part of the Collective. They'll keep their opinions to themselves. Besides, they work with Simone once a month, so if anything they're more willing to take you in stride.
[Amelia considers Henry for a few seconds. There aren't many things that he regards highly (except maybe spiders). After staying with her and understanding the limits he has, he maintains a serene demeanor. Calculated, but logical enough.
Even after all that he's experienced in Blackgale, the oddities, and disruptions, the longer stretches of peace, and the time spent in each other's vicinity... A minute sense of unease remains. All of it isn't for him. If she asks him, she believes that he would still want to go back.
So she doesn't ask. She rests her arms on the table and feigns studying the bottles of alcohol instead.]
Better to do that than to deal with me as you've already learned.
[He thinks he would return home, yes, if given the chance right now. Though if Henry were really to examine that hypothetical, there might be more of a flash of hesitation present that wasn't there before; as though the web he's entangled himself in within this world wraps around his ankles, his wrists, and he'd have to truly make an effort to depart.
He chooses not to think about that overlong.
Instead, he gives Amelia his usual smile, a little warmer around the edges, when she considers him. He wonders if she's thinking if what he's said is true, that he'll remain behaving as per their agreement.]
Amelia, don't worry. [He actually laughs lightly at that.] You don't have to threaten me to remain on good behavior. Only a fool would want to "deal with you" when the easier route, I've learned, is simply working with you.
Besides, we're friends now, aren't we? I'm not here to make your life more difficult than need be.
[There it is, those reddening cheeks upon the mention of their friendship. She automatically reaches up to twist one of her hair strands around her finger, muttering.]
Yes. Friends. And I thank you for that last part.
[Unbeknownst to them, their lives when pertaining to each other have gotten a lot more complicated, perhaps more than she would ever admit. Those thoughts are interrupted by Bianca who comes back with two light cocktailsfor them.]
"Here you go! Two Brambles; those should be light enough."
[Amelia thanks her and takes a sip of her drink while Bianca looks her up and down.]
"You're not going to watch the performance dressed like that, are you? You know that she's going to nag you about your appearance."
[The witch wrinkles her nose.]
About that... I was wondering if you have anything in the back you could spare.
[Bianca thinks for a second, smiles, and nods, gesturing to the witch to follow her to the back.]
"I've got just the thing."
[Before Amelia leaves, she finishes her drink in one gulp (impressive) and waves to Henry.]
I'll be right back. We'll move to the front when the performance starts, but you can keep to yourself in the meanwhile.
[Is he making her blush? That's funny, and he feels a little fond at the ability to make her do so just at the mention of their friendship -- it's been a long time since he's had one, and though he might have reacted similarly when he was much younger, it's amusing to see it play out on someone else's features. Especially Amelia's.
He doesn't tease (this time), though, instead moving his eyes down to the cocktails.]
They're pretty.
[And he means that sincerely. He appreciates all things nicely Aesthetic. Though anything else he might want to add is swept away in the conversation with Bianca, which Henry listens to without interrupting, bringing the drink to his lips in an experiential sip.]
Hm?
[Seems like she's going to be swept away, too, to be properly dressed for the occasion.]
Sure. It's only fair that I'm not the only one dressed up for this, you know.
[He adds... just a little teasingly. Anyhow, he will wait patiently while she wanders off, of course.]
[Amelia waves 'bye' to Henry as Bianca leads the witch to the back to change. While she's away, several more guests enter the Red Divine. All of their attention is directed at the stage and the ambient conversation carries eager remarks about the singer of the night.
"I've been looking forward to this all month."
"Whenever Simone sings, I feel refreshed... Does that make sense?"
"Do you think I can get her number this time...?"
"I don't get what it is about her singing but it's like being in a dream... And I want to see it again."
This is a part of Blackgale where the mundane can have an unknowing encounter with the supernatural. As midnight approaches, the anticipation in the air is palpable and the conversation quiets down every time there's a hint of a voice humming from behind the curtains before it fades and the chatter starts up again. Drinks are poured, glasses clink together, and the lights flicker. It's a leisurely, warm, but mysterious atmosphere that everyone is surrounded by.
It isn't long before footsteps from the back begin to approach Henry...]
[Amelia calls out to Henry. Following close behind is Bianca who is attempting to hide her grin as several heads turn towards them, their interest piqued by the sight before them.
The Emerald Witch has transformed. Her long red hair has been tied back into a loose bun and her face is softly decorated with makeup with the exception of her boldly painted eyelids. The satiny emerald gown hugs her curves and emphasizes her lithe arms. Amelia, who focuses on presentable in her day to day, just looks different tonight. The magical timelessness that she often veils is brought forth in full force.
She fidgets with her fingers and speaks before any other remark can be made.]
[He passes the time in-between her departure and return with his usual: people watching. He doesn’t even have to open up his mind to their thoughts to know that anticipation is alive in the air, their eagerness to listen to Simone something they’ve waited for all month. Henry wonders if she’s as good as they say, but he supposes he’ll find out soon enough.
And then he hears footsteps, and Amelia speaks, and Henry turns, and—
The sight of her, it’s almost like looking at a different person. And yet it’s still very Amelia, her very essence put on glowing display. Henry doesn’t… care for appearances, usually. Doesn’t feel physically attracted to anyone at all these days, believing his priorities above something so rote and useless.
Until… now, that is. It’s a strange, warming sensation. It makes something in his stomach twist, and he finds himself—
[Oh. His reaction is a little... Amelia blinks, unable to control her cheeks from flushing pink. The color even starts to flood her shoulders and it takes a lot for her to reply.]
That's... Thank you.
[Her green eyes dart to the floor, suddenly very interested in the tiling.]
A strong word, but thank you.
[Bianca has returned to her place behind the bar but has a look of amusement as her eyes dart between them. Amelia glances up at Henry and points to the empty table near the front of the stage.]
The show's about to start so... Let's go. Together.
[Amelia starts but stops to look over her shoulder to see if Henry's going to follow.]
[She's blushing, and though Henry is always the sort to tease her for it, this time... for some reason, it makes him feel self-aware. Almost self-conscious. Like he's reverted back to thirteen years old again, and...
It's strange. He loses eye contact with her for some reason.]
Ah... right.
[Of course he gets up to follow, lingering a few paces behind. When he finally does meet her eyes, he at least offers a gentle smile.]
[Their eyes meet as they make their way to their front table; it’s hard not to when they’re sitting close to each other. Henry’s gentle smile makes something within her twist, though not unpleasantly and she finds herself returning it ever so briefly.
The musicians are about finished with warming up aside from a few adjustments with their instruments. Ambient music surrounds them and Amelia sits with her back straight and hands in her lap.]
I… Normally wouldn’t dress like this. Not a lot of opportunities during the school year to be this overly formal.
[Why is she even trying to explain herself? It’s probably because for once she’s beginning to be aware of not only him, but how she’s seen within his eyes which shouldn’t matter, but…
She’ll focus on their main event tonight. Amelia takes a deep breath and starts again.]
I don’t know if Simone’s singing will affect you unless you let it. Like I’ve implied, she’s a mysterious existence. People who hear her song will be engulfed in their own dreams.
It’s almost parallel to what you do, but instead of memories, it’s an illusion of your heart’s desires, whatever they may be.
[He sits in a chair across from her, his brows pinching as he shakes his head at that comment.]
You don't have to explain yourself. [She really doesn't, because that's what it sounds like.] Maybe you need to give yourself more reasons to go out dressed like this, that's all. Like I said, you look good.
[As for Simone's singing, that's interesting. A trait that's similar to his, but where Henry has only ever used it to unearth pain as of late, she uses hers to show the depth of one's desires.
[She tries to hold back a smile with his reassurance and encouragement about her formal look with varying success but manages to retain focus on the topic at hand.]
I am, but only if I let her.
[And only very occasionally at that. Being able to immerse herself in her own dreams helped to either center her or throw her off balance. It would show her that she's either continued to move forward or continued to linger in her past.
Ever since Henry appeared, Amelia is uncertain of what shape her dreams will take tonight.]
It's her way of thriving and existing on this plane, I suppose. She derives pleasure and sustenance from drawing out those desires and in many ways, it seems to give a sense of clarity or purpose to those who listen to her.
[Bianca gets on stage with a microphone and the noise from the other guests dies down. She warmly welcomes everyone with a good evening and a thank you for making it out tonight. Amelia drops her voice to a whisper.]
Just listen to her song and see how you feel. And if you don't like it... I'll be here. To draw you back.
[Amelia exhales softly and nods when Henry voices his agreement. Her head turns towards the stage where Bianca starts to exit to the left.]
"Let's get this show started shall we? Please welcome back Simone, our Scarlet Songstress. Listen to her song ... And sweet dreams everyone..."
[Bianca and her voice fade into the dark as the lights in the bar dim and the spotlight shines over the curtains and the dots of electric candles on the tables are the only other illumination. A hush falls over the crowd as the curtains rustle and a woman in a scarlet dress emerges. She's beautiful at first glance but not in a particularly noticeable way even with her long, gleaming, platinum blonde hair and lush lips. There is however, an unknowable power behind her dark and dreamy gaze that she casts out over the audience. No one makes a sound, opting to hold their breath instead, as if her presence commanded obedient silence rather than adoring praise.
Her gaze settles on Amelia and Henry. At the latter, a slow, knowing smile spreads across her features before bringing the microphone to her lips.]
"Welcome back, everyone. I missed you very much."
[The sentiment is seemingly directed at no one and everyone all at once. Amelia has two of her hands intertwined as if preparing herself for what's coming next. Simone glances at the band and nods and they begin to play some music as she continues to speak, the sweetness in her voice cloying and hypnotic and echoing through the eeriness of the Red Divine. ]
"Summer's almost over isn't it? I hope the thought doesn't sadden you. I'm just happy to be here for you all year long. I'll always be here for you, whenever you need a small escape, when you're alone once again, when you need a revelation, or just a sweet song.
For those of you who are new..."
[For a split second, she looks at Henry but turns her focus back to everyone.]
"When I sing, you will listen. When I sing, you will dream. Take that as you will.
Tonight's song is a bit of a throwback; a song about how your world can change so much when someone is within your eyes. So now, I invite you to this month's divine reverie..."
[The vagueness of her words hang in the air before being filled with her voice.]
[Simone's singing is distilled enchantment and beguilement. All around them time stands still and the other guests eyes become glassy and dazed and as they become enraptured by their own visions that the mysterious songstress's voice draws out of them. The Emerald Witch closes her eyes and lets the alluring voice wash over her. She whispers to Henry as the song continues.]
Let me know when you need me.
[Truthfully, she's afraid of what Simone will see from Henry Creel. What kind of dreams would a monster have on this divine night?]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
recluserose) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
sunfloras2023-04-20 07:42 pm
no subject
She nods and gives Henry a small smile as he opens the door for her.]
Thank you. We’re a little early but that’s fine.
[The interior of the Red Divine is as rich as its name. Dim but warm lighting washes over the wooden counter and stool seats. Glasses and bottles of various liquors gleam under the lamps. There’s a stage with a grand piano and working sound system near the back and there are two musicians in the middle of working on adjusting the speakers and their guitars already while guests mill about drinking, chatting, and winding down for the evening. Around the stage are tall standing tables draped with red table cloths, set up for the audience who are there for the performance.
Amelia leads Henry to the bar counter first.]
We don’t have to sit near the front just yet. When I go here, I usually just linger at the counter to nurse a drink until Simone, the singer comes out.
… I don’t think we’ve done any drinking at home, have we? Unless you’ve been in my cabinet without me knowing.
[Henry has probably noticed by now, during his prolonged stay that the witch does treat herself generously to dark reds from time to time.]
no subject
That's fine by him, of course, being inherently anti-social as he is. Just as Amelia's declaration of not immediately sitting near the front earns a nod of approval.]
The bar's fine by me, too.
[He'll take a seat next to her, wherever she chooses to sit. His elbows lean on the bartop slightly.]
I'm actually not much of a drinker. But it's not like I've had time to grow my tastes when it comes to alcohol. I'm sure I can take a drink now and again for the sake of an outing. Let me guess... You want to order wine?
[Yes, he's noticed.]
no subject
Perhaps. I suppose I've been rather predictable regarding my drink choices.
But who knows? We can try something different based on what the owners recommend.
[Speaking of, a young woman with warm brown skin and curly dark hair approaches them both, making her way behind the counter. Her dark eyes glance at Henry and for a brief second, there's a flash of not necessarily recognition, but more of "like calls to like."
An esper. But she greets the witch first with a genial smile.]
[Amelia nods her head in acknowledgement.]
Bianca. I'm glad we could make it. Could you get us started with something light? I'll leave it up to you.
[Bianca smiles and nods, moving to the other side of the bar to leave the two of them be. Amelia turns back to Henry.]
The owners are a husband and wife duo. Bianca was also one of my students when I first started teaching.
... It appears she could sense you at first glance.
no subject
Still, he smiles serenely, as he's wont to do. And when he woman leaves, he replies easily.]
It seems so. But maybe I'm not a hard one to sense.
[Is that pride, or simple fact? It could be both.]
Or maybe they get a whiff of something inhuman, too. Or both.
no subject
Well, luckily for you, neither Bianca nor Aiden are part of the Collective. They'll keep their opinions to themselves. Besides, they work with Simone once a month, so if anything they're more willing to take you in stride.
no subject
Well, that's good. Especially since I don't plan on causing any trouble here or elsewhere, you know.
[Probably. Most likely. Not without good reason, anyway -- but he's been on good behavior, just like they've agreed upon.]
no subject
[Amelia considers Henry for a few seconds. There aren't many things that he regards highly (except maybe spiders). After staying with her and understanding the limits he has, he maintains a serene demeanor. Calculated, but logical enough.
Even after all that he's experienced in Blackgale, the oddities, and disruptions, the longer stretches of peace, and the time spent in each other's vicinity... A minute sense of unease remains. All of it isn't for him. If she asks him, she believes that he would still want to go back.
So she doesn't ask. She rests her arms on the table and feigns studying the bottles of alcohol instead.]
Better to do that than to deal with me as you've already learned.
no subject
He chooses not to think about that overlong.
Instead, he gives Amelia his usual smile, a little warmer around the edges, when she considers him. He wonders if she's thinking if what he's said is true, that he'll remain behaving as per their agreement.]
Amelia, don't worry. [He actually laughs lightly at that.] You don't have to threaten me to remain on good behavior. Only a fool would want to "deal with you" when the easier route, I've learned, is simply working with you.
Besides, we're friends now, aren't we? I'm not here to make your life more difficult than need be.
no subject
Yes. Friends. And I thank you for that last part.
[Unbeknownst to them, their lives when pertaining to each other have gotten a lot more complicated, perhaps more than she would ever admit. Those thoughts are interrupted by Bianca who comes back with two light cocktailsfor them.]
[Amelia thanks her and takes a sip of her drink while Bianca looks her up and down.]
[The witch wrinkles her nose.]
About that... I was wondering if you have anything in the back you could spare.
[Bianca thinks for a second, smiles, and nods, gesturing to the witch to follow her to the back.]
[Before Amelia leaves, she finishes her drink in one gulp (impressive) and waves to Henry.]
I'll be right back. We'll move to the front when the performance starts, but you can keep to yourself in the meanwhile.
no subject
He doesn't tease (this time), though, instead moving his eyes down to the cocktails.]
They're pretty.
[And he means that sincerely. He appreciates all things nicely Aesthetic. Though anything else he might want to add is swept away in the conversation with Bianca, which Henry listens to without interrupting, bringing the drink to his lips in an experiential sip.]
Hm?
[Seems like she's going to be swept away, too, to be properly dressed for the occasion.]
Sure. It's only fair that I'm not the only one dressed up for this, you know.
[He adds... just a little teasingly. Anyhow, he will wait patiently while she wanders off, of course.]
1/2
"I've been looking forward to this all month."
"Whenever Simone sings, I feel refreshed... Does that make sense?"
"Do you think I can get her number this time...?"
"I don't get what it is about her singing but it's like being in a dream... And I want to see it again."
This is a part of Blackgale where the mundane can have an unknowing encounter with the supernatural. As midnight approaches, the anticipation in the air is palpable and the conversation quiets down every time there's a hint of a voice humming from behind the curtains before it fades and the chatter starts up again. Drinks are poured, glasses clink together, and the lights flicker. It's a leisurely, warm, but mysterious atmosphere that everyone is surrounded by.
It isn't long before footsteps from the back begin to approach Henry...]
no subject
[Amelia calls out to Henry. Following close behind is Bianca who is attempting to hide her grin as several heads turn towards them, their interest piqued by the sight before them.
The Emerald Witch has transformed. Her long red hair has been tied back into a loose bun and her face is softly decorated with makeup with the exception of her boldly painted eyelids. The satiny emerald gown hugs her curves and emphasizes her lithe arms. Amelia, who focuses on presentable in her day to day, just looks different tonight. The magical timelessness that she often veils is brought forth in full force.
She fidgets with her fingers and speaks before any other remark can be made.]
It's a bit much, isn't it?
no subject
And then he hears footsteps, and Amelia speaks, and Henry turns, and—
The sight of her, it’s almost like looking at a different person. And yet it’s still very Amelia, her very essence put on glowing display. Henry doesn’t… care for appearances, usually. Doesn’t feel physically attracted to anyone at all these days, believing his priorities above something so rote and useless.
Until… now, that is. It’s a strange, warming sensation. It makes something in his stomach twist, and he finds himself—
Well. Staring a little.]
Um.
[Eloquent.]
Not at all. You look stunning.
no subject
That's... Thank you.
[Her green eyes dart to the floor, suddenly very interested in the tiling.]
A strong word, but thank you.
[Bianca has returned to her place behind the bar but has a look of amusement as her eyes dart between them. Amelia glances up at Henry and points to the empty table near the front of the stage.]
The show's about to start so... Let's go. Together.
[Amelia starts but stops to look over her shoulder to see if Henry's going to follow.]
no subject
It's strange. He loses eye contact with her for some reason.]
Ah... right.
[Of course he gets up to follow, lingering a few paces behind. When he finally does meet her eyes, he at least offers a gentle smile.]
no subject
The musicians are about finished with warming up aside from a few adjustments with their instruments. Ambient music surrounds them and Amelia sits with her back straight and hands in her lap.]
I… Normally wouldn’t dress like this. Not a lot of opportunities during the school year to be this overly formal.
[Why is she even trying to explain herself? It’s probably because for once she’s beginning to be aware of not only him, but how she’s seen within his eyes which shouldn’t matter, but…
She’ll focus on their main event tonight. Amelia takes a deep breath and starts again.]
I don’t know if Simone’s singing will affect you unless you let it. Like I’ve implied, she’s a mysterious existence. People who hear her song will be engulfed in their own dreams.
It’s almost parallel to what you do, but instead of memories, it’s an illusion of your heart’s desires, whatever they may be.
no subject
You don't have to explain yourself. [She really doesn't, because that's what it sounds like.] Maybe you need to give yourself more reasons to go out dressed like this, that's all. Like I said, you look good.
[As for Simone's singing, that's interesting. A trait that's similar to his, but where Henry has only ever used it to unearth pain as of late, she uses hers to show the depth of one's desires.
Will that be problematic for him? He wonders.]
What about you? Are you affected by her song?
no subject
I am, but only if I let her.
[And only very occasionally at that. Being able to immerse herself in her own dreams helped to either center her or throw her off balance. It would show her that she's either continued to move forward or continued to linger in her past.
Ever since Henry appeared, Amelia is uncertain of what shape her dreams will take tonight.]
It's her way of thriving and existing on this plane, I suppose. She derives pleasure and sustenance from drawing out those desires and in many ways, it seems to give a sense of clarity or purpose to those who listen to her.
[Bianca gets on stage with a microphone and the noise from the other guests dies down. She warmly welcomes everyone with a good evening and a thank you for making it out tonight. Amelia drops her voice to a whisper.]
Just listen to her song and see how you feel. And if you don't like it... I'll be here. To draw you back.
no subject
Color him curious. He watches Bianca carefully as she makes her introduction, then glances aside at Amelia. Henry nods.]
All right. I'll tell you if it gets to that point. But for now... I'm intrigued. I want to see how this works on someone like me.
no subject
[Bianca and her voice fade into the dark as the lights in the bar dim and the spotlight shines over the curtains and the dots of electric candles on the tables are the only other illumination. A hush falls over the crowd as the curtains rustle and a woman in a scarlet dress emerges. She's beautiful at first glance but not in a particularly noticeable way even with her long, gleaming, platinum blonde hair and lush lips. There is however, an unknowable power behind her dark and dreamy gaze that she casts out over the audience. No one makes a sound, opting to hold their breath instead, as if her presence commanded obedient silence rather than adoring praise.
Her gaze settles on Amelia and Henry. At the latter, a slow, knowing smile spreads across her features before bringing the microphone to her lips.]
[The sentiment is seemingly directed at no one and everyone all at once. Amelia has two of her hands intertwined as if preparing herself for what's coming next. Simone glances at the band and nods and they begin to play some music as she continues to speak, the sweetness in her voice cloying and hypnotic and echoing through the eeriness of the Red Divine. ]
[For a split second, she looks at Henry but turns her focus back to everyone.]
[The vagueness of her words hang in the air before being filled with her voice.]
[Simone's singing is distilled enchantment and beguilement. All around them time stands still and the other guests eyes become glassy and dazed and as they become enraptured by their own visions that the mysterious songstress's voice draws out of them. The Emerald Witch closes her eyes and lets the alluring voice wash over her. She whispers to Henry as the song continues.]
Let me know when you need me.
[Truthfully, she's afraid of what Simone will see from Henry Creel. What kind of dreams would a monster have on this divine night?]