2013.05.01 - Thrimilci Feast, Part 1

Rose Garden - NYC Botanical Gardens 
The beautiful Rose Garden situated within the New York Botanical Gardens is in full bloom. The scent of wide array of breeds of roses fill the air, making a heady perfume that tickles the senses. In the very center of this elegant and perfectly maintained garden is a large, wrought iron gazebo covered in vining roses. Pathways shoot off from the stone circle upon which the gazebo sits and the rose beds here are smaller, making it the perfect area for dancing.
It's every other pathway from here that has a long table covered in a golden table clothe with silver centerpieces and deep blue accents. Upon each table is an array of food and drink. On each of these table is a small fondue fountain but instead of what one might expect, the fountain flows with mocha. Each table is laden with an array of various foods and drinks, in case the wait staff wondering about isn't getting to you fast enough, that lends the scent of savory and sweet to the floral bouquet that already fills the air.
The far row of walk ways have been set up with long dinning tables that are the opposite scheme as the buffet tables. Silver table clothes with gold centerpieces and red place settings. The furthest right hand walkway is where the DJ table can be found, the equipment set up in a way that is as unobtrusive as possible. Upon a few of the grass sections there has been set up various kinds of outdoor games. The Maypole, however, is distinctly missing.
Visuals:
http://www.fungetaways1.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/2248579971_86f32e55ac.jpg
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd453/margaretlogan/FeastDrinksMenu.jpg
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd453/margaretlogan/FeastMealMenu.jpg
http://i1220.photobucket.com/albums/dd453/margaretlogan/FeastMealMenu2.jpg
Audio:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hW93CV6m-JU&list=PL4npksG33eCN4vmzxNSU_7JEhXn7zRZ9N&feature=mh_lolz
The appointed hour arrives for the party, and the general public find themselves gently escorted out of the rose gardens. The music begins to play and the caters mill about with trays of drinks and food and the like. Standing by one of the catering tables, talking amiably is Thor in his armor, while Sif is chatting with the the head of catering about this or that or the other. Jocelyn's around here too (OOC: Per player request), but she's in the background and staying quiet for now.
As the guests begin to arrive, Thor greets all that he can, with a warm hug or bow at fits the level of familiarity between god and guest. Because warmly greeting and sharing abundance is how it's done on Asgard. Welcome, friends!
 
IT's a party! And it's for one of the few friends she has among... well, she can't say among mortals duh. Anyhow, Brynn actually traveled home to Polaria to get an item out of storage that she'd had there. So she returned to New York City with a dress that she literally hadn't worn in centuries. It's a good thing she treated it so that it would survive the passage of time. So it is that she shows up at the party, having donned said dress... plain white sleeves and skirt with a navy blue dyed top portion. She shows up with a wooden case about one foot by one foot by one foot. Polished wood with a runic display atop it. A simple rune that to most would simply look like a large X. The rune is named Gebo in the FUTHARK, and is generally used to refer to 'Partnership'.
She arrives a few minutes before the designated time, as... late would be rude, right? Walking up to the party location, she slides into the party without making much of a fuss.
Note: Dress pic - http://fc00.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2011/348/4/1/shieldmaiden_by_lotrsavvy-d4j4ep2.jpg
Tigra arrives pretty much right on time. She considered wearing something a little fancier, but decided against it. The point's to be comfortable here, after all, and she's quite comfortable as is. Plus, you know, fur. Spotting Thor and Sif, she heads their way to exchange greetings with them, Thor definitely getting a hug, and Sif as well, if permitted. After a few words of greeting, she'll move out of the way, knowing there's plenty of others who'll want to speak to the Asgardians.
Martian Manhunter did indeed make it to the party. As it's acceptable, he's in hero form, wearing his costume. He strides into the party area, having landed close to the gates. Not as many heads turn as might in some places. It's not unexpected that he's here and most present have, if not met him, at least become aware of his existence and seen him on television.
Sebastian Shaw, the secret Black King of the Hellfire Club, multi-billionaire Industrialist, LEX News political contributor and quite possibly one the most influential men in the world arrived with surprisingly little fanfare. Despite his influence and importance he had never been one to stand in the spotlight and instead preferred to be unnoticed when out and about.
This is not to say he didn't arrive dressed expensively and meticulously. His tuxedo probably cost more than most people could even consider making in a year. A black silk, full length jacket seven real silver buttons running down it's right side with simple self-flap pockets that have been embroidered with silver thread, underneath the jacket he is wearing a silver and black center vest and a satin shirt with a mandarin collar. Around the collar he wears a dark red ascot that is meant to stand out from the more muted colors of the rest of the tuxedo.
Shaw had made the company of the two Asgardians a while back at a museum function, and they had even attended his own Hellfire Club's Charity Ball, he would not say that he was close to the two. But he would never turn down having allies who were literally gods.
On his arm was the beauteous, Emma Frost, an equally rich socialite, industrialist and oddly enough, school teacher. They had know each other for years, though no one has ever been clear if they are an actual couple or just have always been in each other's orbit.
Emma is Shaw's date for the night, as she arrives with her arm wrapped around his. At the Hellfire club party she didn't get a chance to meet all of the party's attendants (at least those of interest) and most of all Thor and his lovely Sif. She expected there to be much less strippers and debauchery at this party.
She also was dressed to the nines, like Shaw. Emma was in black this evening, because one shouldn't be a slave to a color. She wore a black satin long halter dress, with see-through lace detailing along the leg up to the hip, exposing the skin. Her hair was pushed up into a wavy loose bun, and her lips were bright red. She was a classic beauty for this evening, but with Emma's usual confidence. She looked over to Shaw, "I can't remember the last time I was your date. What was it, Tokyo?" OOC Visual: http://www.newyorkdress.com/Mac_Duggal/42898R.html
To the few in attendance that already know her, Fern may pose a very different figure than they are accustomed to seeing for this festive occasion. Unescorted, dressed in heels and a flowing dress, the young waitre.... actress makes her way toward the gazebo in the rose garden. Blue eyes flicker around, trying to take in every detail and file it in her memory. She sees few faces that are familiar, but each one gets the same warm smile and easy greeting. As she spies the party's host her steps angle in his direction, her eyes slipping around to look for Sif. 
OOC dress: http://www.newyorkdress.com/Nina_Canacci/6007NC.html?color=Turquoise 
A party in the park. Viking Cinco de Mayo or Mardis Gras. Something like that. Google hadn't helped Fran really find out what this party was all about. So she plays it safe. She bounces across town to this Rose thingie, which was hella pretty it turned out, but she didn't approach any closer once she got a sight of it. That's when she sat in a tree to see what this party was all about. Dresses! Damnit! So much for the six pack she brought along. Well, she was prepared, sort of. Dropping down out of the tree she hides behind her tree and starts stripping out of her clothes, while simultaneously digging into her backpack to ditch the six pack, and to find the dress she's got in there somewhere.
Despite being excited about the purpose of the party and about other news getting revealed tonight, Eddie's a nervous little guy. He's still not used to big groups and he's never been to a party like this one. It's different when he's in costume, the mask and uniform giving him confidence. Today, he's in a suit and tie though (ooc: http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vj9Z_MT61Gw/T7uCxKOoPgI/AAAAAAAARDc/VMMG-BAoWWA/s640/011.jpg). Off to the side, he adjusts his tie and sips some water as he searches the arriving guests for familiar faces. He's a little sad Vic couldn't come but he's hoping some of his other friends appear.
It is something of a lark to ride the City's streets upon a warhorse. Certainly it's gained some attention, some of it bad, or rather, not quite as positive as it could be, and a great deal of it good (from the more normal of folks). As if that matters at all to one of the Warriors Three, Fandral? Well, the bad portion, not.. the.. yes. Anyway...
It's taken him the better portion of the day to discover on his own where this feast is being held, and it's no fault of Thor's or Sif's. Pleasant day, pleasant company (Firehooves), and upon arrival, there's something of a commotion outside.
"Sir.. the horse may not--"
"Me thinks that perhaps thou has lost thy wit.. disallowing such a fine--"
"Sir.. I believe.."
"I do believe that thou hast no standing--" Fandral pushes past those that would bar the way for the horse, and strides forward. He's dressed all in various shades of green, with hints of brown leather. A deep, forest green cloak hangs to the side from lines of wrought gold.
"Thor! Brother! My prince.. your manservants are disallowing my horse!" From the look of it, however, while his words speak of one thing, the merry glint in those blue eyes says something completely different. He's having a bit of fun.
With a party like this, what can one say? What can one do?
Well, Kate Bishop is here. And while she is in a fancy dress and heels (purple, that aren't desced since her player didn't have time to even find a pic, let alone a desc for them), she is for now keeping quiet. And out of the way. Or at least she's trying to as much as she can. After all, the socialite, member of the Hellfire Club, charity worker, and... Other things is known in multiple different circles. And based on who she's seen so far at the party and entering it, there is a unique cross section of those multiple social spheres here.
Shaw looked at Emma and laughed, "Well technically you were my date to the Charity Ball, but yes the last time we -looked- like a couple in person, was that Tokyo affair with the Emperor and Prime Minister."
He looked at the set up the two Asgardians had put together, not as lavish or debauch as his own affairs but quite night, rather intimate in his opinion. He orders himself a dahlwhinne scotch and a Alphonse Mellot Cuvee Edmond Sauvigon blanc for Emma.
Rain just had to come by. She's dressed in a long jacket, but it's nicer and much cleaner than her usuals. Her shoes are cleaned, and she's even got a hat that doesn't look like it was waging siege warfare on dust bunnies. Once she walks in to the gates of the garden, an imp in a bowler hat pops out. Rain aaaaaacks. "Okay, okay, you can come out..." Her eyes are a bit wide. The imp clambers out of her jacket and up to sit atop her hat. Furthermore, why is she holding a broom and a potted calla lily? The broom is dismissed after a moment. "Do we bring a gift? Master was away and all..." Hmmm. A shrug and a smile. Then - HORSEY! And - And ... who is that? An owlish blink as her path takes her near Fandral and the workers. Oh my. "Oh wow." She feels more awkward than a tripod fish.
 
There are some occasions in polite society where the upper crust mingles with the lower echelons willingly. Not out of societal obligation, necessarily, but because the nature of the event is too important to miss, but open enough that all sorts are in attendance. 
Erik Lehnsherr, executive director of the Mutant Action Center, certainly moves like he belongs precisely where he's at. His affiliation with various civic groups New York certainly seems to merit him a great deal of latitude in attending posh social events. Besides, how often does one get to rub elbow with a God? 
As is his wont, an immaculate Saville Row suit drapes over his broad shoulders. It's perfectly tailored, the dozen little touches only a true fashion aficionado would spot clearly marking it as a hand-stitched wool suit. 
"Ah. Mister Shaw," Erik says, approaching Sebastian. "And Lady Frost. What a delight to see you two hear," he says, grinning wolfishly. He settles his walking cane between his patent leather oxford shoes and rests both palms on the gold-engraved grip. "And how are we this evening?"
"Djannnnggoooo! Django, now your love has gone away. Once you loved her, Whoaahh-oooooooh. Now you've lost her, Whoaaa-ooooohhhh," Ben Reilly's MP3 docking station blares the Luis Bacalov tune from inside his Baxter Building Apartment. If any of the Fantastic Four are listening in, it would be easy to presume there's been a break up given the song. However the catchy tune comes courtesy spending a lazy afternoon watching Django: Unchained. That intro song is catchier than Gangnam Style in Ben's mind.
Even now he's mouthing the words into an imaginary microphone when he's not focused on finishing getting ready. Most fashion critiques would gasp at the horror of Ben's outfit. Most geeks would cheer at the wonder of Ben's outfit. It all depends on if you're asking Tim Gunn or Chris Hardwick if Ben looks good. 
A black pinstripe suit is a strong way to start off any attire no matter who you ask. After that is when Ben's fashion starts to get a little weird. Or a little awesome, again it depends on who you ask. A white button up shirt matches and practically feeds into the swirly lines that move across a scarlet tie. Parts of the tie looks like a lighter shade of red that aren't quite pink but close enough. If the mixing of straight lines and swirls didn't offend fashionistas then the shoes would send them overboard. The usual pair of black and white vans is exchanged for a pair of all black ones. Who wears stripes, swirls and tennis shoes to a formal event?!
Topping everything off with a dark gray trench coat Ben examines himself in the mirror then mouths, "When there are clouds in the skiiiieeeessss and they are greeeeyyyy. You may be saddd but remember that love will pass awwwayyyyy," again that song is too hard to resist. Afterwards he makes his hair a little missing in the front, old people would call it spikey. Really it's the teen just embracing the look. 
And that look would be recognizable to any nerd with a keen eye. Darkening the colors here and there, Ben looks like he's doing a pseudo-goth's impression of the Tenth Doctor. He's just one pair of brainy specs and a sonic screwdriver short of it. Reed could probably build a sonic screw driver if Ben asked for one. Oh the life of a Whovian.
At first the outfit is intended for cons but it is one of the better suits he owns. Eventually the number got rotated in as "Business Casual." Since Sif and Thor sent out invites for this party Ben feels the outfit is very appropriate, formal yet not. Plus it would be a great ice breaker among potential new nerds he could meet. 
"Snap," Ben says to himself in the mirror and turns to leave. Bacalov continues to sing thanks to repeat and the teen forgetting to turn off the docking station. 
Making his way to the address isn't too hard. Heck it's even a nice walk thanks to a few people that comment on the outfit, one lady even asks "Where's the tardis!?" 
Ben just says with the utmost horror on his face, "THE ANGELS HAVE THE BOX!" then runs as fast as he can. New York brought out the strangest and best people. 
One of the better people in Ben's mind isn't really a person. He's a God actually but Thor is good people. Seeing the man dressed to the hilt in armor Ben gives the norseman a hug, "Big guy! Looking good!" Chocolate color eyes look over the crowd. Ben notes all the people that are here trying to figure out who, among the sea of people, is a familiar face besides the host.
When Brynn arrives, Thor moves to greet her warmly. He offers to take the box from her...for her.. and once done, he spots so many others arrive. His smile is bright as a ray of sun at he finally just booms out to encompass them all with arms spread wide as if he could hug them all at once.
"My friends! Make thyselves warmly welcome! Eat! Drink! Be merry!" Thor is saying and in the pause of his words Fandral is heard. Thor's laugh is a bright rolling sound, promising life-bringing rain.
"Leave my friend his horse, faithful Guardians of the Botanical Gardens! Please. I fear he may feel quite ill at ease with nothing to try to compare himself to!"
Who doesn't like a party?!
About eight months ago, there was once a young man named Robbie Baldwin. This young man wasn't all that high on the social totem pole in high school. He'd been to a party or two, and only stayed a short time. This was because he snuck in uninvited and had what fun he could before he was found out by the popular kids and thrown out. It was the closest he got, really, to being as popular as his ego tends to broadcast.
Fast forward to now. Eight or so months have gone by. He has superpowers now, a team, and friends. Real friends, actually. He doesn't try and sneak into high school parties any longer; he prefers to hang out with his new friends. And said friends have invited him to a party. This is not the wild high school bash he was known to sneak into. It's an actual party. You know, hosted by /THOR/ and /SIF./ He has met Thor briefly before, but tends to not be around them much: he values his friends for who they are, not by who they know.
So, Robbie's approached it as he would one of his mother's cast shindigs. His suit is dark blue with pinstripes, a charcoal gray shirt and matching skinny tie, and his black dress shows are polished so hard they gleam. He takes off his (designer) sunglasses and puts them in his suit jacket pocket before he walks in, seriously considering a drink.
Fern smiles, finding Thor's gesture both amusing and endearing. For a God he's a pretty simple kind of guy, unbeguiling and genuine. She pauses, noting how many are keen to greet the host, and steps away. She can wait a few minutes, while others have their time, and will greet him when he is less overwhelmed. Her eyes cast about, finding a familiar face, Ben Reilly. She takes a step in his direction, but her attention is caught by... something about a horse. Her fingers tighten around her rhinestone studded clutch as she turns her head to see the source of the commotion. 
Thor gets a warm smile from Brynn. "No peeking now." she offers as she hands off the rosewood box. She smirks a bit and then approaches Sif. Sif... gets a warrior's handclasp that is used to draw the warrior goddess into a fierce hug. Once that is done, she releases Sif and says, "Worry not, the planning for your party is coming along nicely. I have been doing more research on how the mortals celebrate upcoming nuptials." She beams as she says that, and then turns to allow her host and hostess to give their attention to the other guests while she takes her redhead self over to the drink table to search for some mead.
Finally, all the last moment details had been taken care of and Sif is free to join Thor and the rest of their guest. Normally silver-blue eyes are an almost sapphire in color and sparkle brightly, the joy and excitement shining in them and radiating from her.
The blush colored gown swirls around her ankles, barely brushing against the ground as she walks. When she reaches Thor's side, a glass is held out to him. The Espresso Martini she had added to the menu specifically for the God. In her own glass is a bright blue liquid. Gentle stuff to start off with.
Brynn's warm greeting is returned in kind, her cheeks flaring a deep pink. "I... Oh... Well, thank you?" Yes it actually comes out as a question before she gives a glance to Thor and then back to their gathered friend. Ahem.
Emma grinned as she recalled both of the evenings. The Tokyo event was very ritualistic but beautiful. And she nodded as Shaw made her drink order, "Yes, you're right. Well this event looks quite posh. However I'm curious to see who is on this guest list."
She turned her attention towards Erik as he introduced himself, and she stepped forward to deliver a soft kiss on each of his cheeks, "Erik. A delight to see you again so soon. I well this evening."
Fandral looks pleased, victorious even.. until the words truly sink in. He pauses before another laugh sounds, "An animal to put all to shame, aye.." and he whistles, a sharp-sounding call. It isn't too long after that there is a responding whinney, and a horse in tack (though no barding) enters, his ears forward.. then shifting the side as noises strange reach him. Firehooves is a deep brown bay, black mane, tail, legs.. and a splash of wide white upon his face.. and carries, along with his saddle, two swords.
Fandral holds his hand out, and the horse approaches, head down.. and when the beast reaches his master, Fan pats the animal on the neck. "Go, friend.. and find some grass. I'm sure there must be some here for you to feast upon.. but mind the flowers. Me thinks there would be difficulties should you partake."
Once done, then, the warrior turns about once again, the smile plain upon his face. Now that his horse is here, the next step-- mead. And then guests can be greeted!
Thor returns Ben's hug warmly, patting the younger mortal on the back firmly but not quite pounding. Letting Ben go, Thor collects the box and holds it easily under one arm. He seems mildly confused and curious, but nods solemnly as Brynn moves away to find Sif coming towards him. As a drink is brought to him, the curiosity shifts from the box - now forgotten about save to just hold onto it - to the martini. This he brings to his lips without hesitation... and smiles with a look that reads that he just sipped at a sunrise. (Which, as it turns out, is actually ON the drink menu!)
Mead. J'onn has claimed a glass, sipping at it almost warily. If anything can get anyone drunk, even a Martian, it *would* be Asgardian mead....despite his completely different physiology. He's watching the party for now, although he IS paying quite a bit of attention to the horse. He hadn't expected that. Magnificent animal.
"
Sebastian smirked at Erik, the two of them had recently spoken in private and honestly it reminded him on how insignificant he thought the man was. But he would not ruin Thor and Sif's party by beginning an argument with him, or treating him in any way but sociable, "Erik, a pleasure as always."
He took Erik's hand and shook it firmly but friendly, Shaw was good at the concept of 'glad-handing.' "Nice to see you being so active as of late, you'd hardly know how busy you must be with you Mutant Action Center."
Billy Kaplan has been a nervous wreck all day waiting for the big party, festival, event thing that he has been invited to. It is not so much the event that has him nervous, but who is going to be there. Fanboy that he is Billy has almost gotten used to the various Superheroes and Norse Gods that are going to be at the party, those will not be a problem. It is the normal people that will be there that worry him, specifically his family. Coming out of the Superhero closet to his family went fairly easily for Billy, far better than expected in fact baring the early mix up about which closet he was coming out of and his relationship with his best friend, but them actually meeting the people he spent time with while in costume he is not sure how that is going to go. He is also not entirely sure who to worry about more his family or the Superheroes. 
As the music starts and the guests are brought into the Rose Garden Billy Kaplan is flanked by a small group of people. He was told to invite his family, and he did. Dressed in his good suit he is flanked by two younger boys somewhere in the area of 9 or 10 years old dressed identically save for the colors of their ties, Billy's being a dark crimson and the younger boys being blue and green respectively. Keeping with the young men are a middle aged pair whose attitude screams one thing, parents. The matched set of parents, Rebecca and Jeff Kaplan, are wearing fairly simple but nice clothes for the event not entirely sure exactly what was expected since the invitations did not say indicate what the dress code would be. 
Jeff removes his glasses in order to clean them after watching many of the more interesting guests arrive. "You certainly move in interesting circles William." HE says with no hint of judgment in his voice. 
Billy can only nod his head, "Yeah, um before we met Thor I should warn you he is a bit...expressive?" 
"You have said William, don't worry or you will give yourself an ulcer. We are not going to take back our consent to your...extracurricular activities just from meeting your friends soon to be new parents or anything." Rebecca says placing a hand on her son's shoulder for a second. "Now come along and introduce us, I have never had a chance to meet a 'God' before."
And as some of the more... Unique individuals arrive, like Ben, Kate can't help but blink and shake her head.
Yeah. This is gonna be an interesting night. Well, she knew that already, but still...
Still, in the end, Ms. Bishop ends up moving over to greet Thor, while still being mindful as to what she says, and does, and to who.
 
Erik laughs softly and kisses Emma's cheek in return, then gives Sebastian's hand a firm squeeze without trying to set a bonecrusher. "Sebastian, you are looking well," he congratulates the man. He slips his hand through Emma's, then turns her in a pirouette and stands back to admire the effect. "And Miss Frost, how lovely you look today. That dress is stunning." He bows to her admiringly. "Your sense of fashion is, of course, impeccable. How are you finding the party so far?"
Martian Manhunter finally takes his eyes off the horse, his red gaze scanning the area, scanning...and then abruptly *fixing* on Brynn. It actually looks for a moment as if the Martian's normally amazing control falters. He's...clearly...surprised. Even shocked. Staring at the woman as if trying to work out who she is. Or maybe *what* she is.
Mead!
Fandral walks with purposeful strides towards table upon which proper offerings of libations are made. Mead!
Filling a tankard, the blond Warrior looks to J'onn and scowls, though there's no malice to it. "Nay.. good sir.. fill thy glass to its brim.. and when that is done, mead is to be enjoyed.. taken in proper measure. Drink!" And as if to show how its done properly, Fandral lifts his mug in the air, "To the Allfather, and mine Prince!" before he takes one, two.. three.. four deep draughts of the heady drink.
"This drink; it is delicious, Sif!" bubbles Thor, smiling at the Goddess at his side. If he had an extra arm or the ability to hold things aloft with his mind, Thor would have let good of the rosewood box to pull Sif into a warm little hug. As it is, he shifts to press his elbow into her arm gently. He's finishing up the espresso martini (Blame Sif for giving the Thunderer caffeine AND alcohol at the same time!) when Kate moves toward him. As a waitstaff moves by, Thor reaches out the place the martini glass on the tray with careless grace. Careless enough to crack the glass. (If it were metal it wouldn't have broken! Silly mortals and their glass trinkets!) Thor didn't seem to notice. 
"Greetings to thee," says Thor to Kate Bishop, bringing his now freed hand to his chest in a close-fisted bow.
Rain takes care of household chores for Loki! Does that count? She looks a bit odd, purple eyes, imp sitting on her hat and a calla lily in hand. Well. The horse and Fandral fellow seem to have the right idea. They should make sure that the refreshments don't um - escape. Yeah, that's it... Rain looks positively overwhelmed, though. But she smiles, seeing several familiar faces. "Wow." It's kind of amazing, really. She'll weave her way over, though- is that Mr. Shaw and - lots of people! Ben, too. Her head is spinning so.
"Ah, you've excellent taste in drink." offers Brynn towards Fandral as she selects a tankard just after he takes his own. She turns to take a sip and to peer in the direction Fandral is speaking towards. She does lift her own drink as the toast is made, but otherwise she just kind of stands quietly off to one side. See, she really only knows the Host and Hostess here... no others. So she doesn't really feel like pushing herself upon others for the sake of socialization itself. She's spent plenty of time quietly alone to be able to avoid the whole... must... talk... to ... others! thing. This does leave her approachable for those who might do so of course...
Eddie sighs in relief when he starts picking familiar faces from the crowd. Kate, Ben, Rain, Robbie, Billy...all people that can help him relax. Finishing off his water, Eddie tosses the bottle into a trash bin and heads into the crowd. He's really not sure where he's going yet, just heading in the direction of the first friend that runs into him for a quick greeting hug.
Giving his jacket to a member of the wait staff or whoever is taking coats Ben is about to make his way to whatever counts as a dance floor. Pausing the teen turns and practically lunges for his coat. Pulling away a pair of black rimmed glasses from inside the coat pocket he breathes a sigh of relief. The staff is just eying Ben strangely.
"Can't forget your glasses," Ben says then pockets them into his breast pocket. Okay so he's only a sonic screwdriver short of completing the look. 
Bobbing up and down devoid of a lot of rhythm, trying to go to the beat of an annoying but catchy tune, Ben slides to an area that could be consider a dancer floor. Smiling he stops then catches the familiar accordions. Oh yes, Ben is one of those people that rushes to do the chicken dance.
Apparently, Brynn doesn't feel his gaze, although she's now talking to Fandral. He steps over to the two. "It is best to be a little cautious with unknown intoxicating beverages. Normally, alcohol doesn't affect me, but..." This IS Asgardian alcohol, brewed to affect people like Thor. It might. He's still keeping one eye on Brynn, though. Surprised, a little mistrustful, uncertain.
Billy Kaplan closes his eyes a second and hopes for the best. He knows that his parents will like Sif and Thor just as much as he does but adults are funny things and first and foremost he is a worrier. He gets in line to greet the evenings Hosts with his full entourage. When he gets to them he grins and gives a small wave before doing the introductions. "Hi Thor, Sif. Um, this is my family?" He is not sure if he should go with the informal, or the formal Asgardian kind of introductions so he just wings it mostly. "My little brothers, and my parents Doctors Jeff and Rebecca Kaplan. Mom, Dad, Thor God of thunder, Prince of Asgard and Lady Sif Shield maiden of Asgard." He gives a hopeful little grin as his parents offer handshakes seemingly as nonplussed by their hosts. Billy's brothers on the other hand, just stand there staring with mouths opened. Serves them right for not believing him when Billy told them he was friends with superheroes.
Emma laughed playfully as Erik spun her in place, her black dress spinning about her. It was charming and unexpected, always pleasant traits in a man. She had heard of his discussion with Shaw. And while her ideals were still closer to Shaw's, she was still interested in getting to know Erik, "You charmer, you. So pleased to see you again, such a party animal."
Sif beams up at Thor and leans into him for a moment before rising up to kiss his cheek. "I am most glad you enjoyed it, beloved." She sips her own blue drink. When Kate comes over, Sif bows her head. "Welcome!"
As Billy approaches, Sif smiles warmly at the young man. "I am glad you could make it." She reaches out to give the boy a hug before turning her attention to his parents. Each one's hand is shook in turn. "Welcome! It is a pleasure and honor to meet you both." She gives a dip of her head and then... The children. Her entire demeanor and features soften. "Hello. Are you having fun?"
She'll mingle and greet others in just a moment or so but first... Children!
Okay, first goal; get something to drink. While there are some thankfully familiar faces around, Robbie's feeling a touch intimidated by the whole thing. He ambles his way to the bar and comes away with a glass of iced tea, lemon included, with a straw. At least there's something to clear the dryness in his throat. Now, what to do...what rules would his mom have told him...ah! 
The first person Robbie seeks out is the Lady Sif. He waits until she is free from a conversation, and approaches. He's actually a bit shy in her presence, for all his bravado about woman. "M'lady Sif," he says, feeling his Adam's Apple bob a bit. "I'm Robbie Baldwin, a friend of Eddie's." He bows his head. "Thank you for your kind invitation to this wonderful party." Thank goodness for the music covering the sound of his knees knocking together.
Fandral looks past the crowd for his horse, and satisfied that the animal hasn't gotten into any trouble (yet), he's able to turn his attention back to the pleasures that lie before him (after a fashion). Drink.. and a lovely lady. He turns first to Brynn, and bows, his fist rising to a shoulder as he does so. "We meet again.. and this time.. well, I cannot say that it is a more pleasant occasion. After all, swordplay doth seem to suit thee." 
J'onn's appearance, and subsequent staring at the beauty that now stands before him, them, Fandral grins broadly. "This is an occasion, sir, upon which thou shouldst simply drink and be merry. There is no other reason, no matter what my brother might say. For any announcement he may make will be given the order to take drink into hand and toast.. demanding a cry of 'huzzah!' and an order to charge one's tankard once again."
And so Brynn's eyes turn towards J'onn as he approaches. Apparently no, she did -not- feel the gaze upon her. But then again, there are so many gazes to be felt here, perhaps she just missed it? She smiles to Fandral and shrugs her shoulders, "One must put to the test themselves, that which they forge with their own hands, else how will you know that it will function as intended?" She turns her gaze towards J'onn as he gets closer then and raises red-gold eyebrows, "Greetings." she offers pleasantly, "I would not worry, the mead is excellent." she adds as she takes a small sip herself.
"Thanks for inviting me." is said towards Sif as Kate is greeted. All though as she notices Billy, the woman in purple quirks an eyebrow. Not at him, but instead the rest of his family.
And then, well... There's Robbie. After all, when he says he's a friend of Eddies, she can't help but glance at him and quirk an eyebrow.
But no, Kate doesn't push and ask about that.
Sebastian couldn't help to roll his eyes a bit at Erik's behavior, he always thought Erik was a man who did entirely too much for effect, and not enough for practicality. Which was odd because Erik surely thought of himself as a pragmatist. It was unfortunate that Emma seemed to actually like the man. Then again, she did not have the same history with Erik as he did.
Shaw glanced around the party, interesting assortment of people to be sure. He picked out a few he was interested in speaking with besides Emma and Erik. Kate Bishop was over there, he swore he hadn't seen her since she was six. And a legitimate superhero, well other than Thor, and an alien too. Now he almost wished he had invited Lex to come with him if only to have him rage about aliens. Most of the others he didn't care about, except for the Reilly boy, he had heard that he was working for Reed Richards, that made him a hot commodity in the technologies market.
When Billy's family approaches, Thor smiles to them, and shakes the father's hand while bowing over the mother's and bringing her knuckles up lightly to his forehead.
"Doctors Jeff and Rebecca Kaplan, it is my great honor and pleasure to greet thee both. Thy son hath not had much occassion to speak at length of thee, but never hast his action or inaction been cause for me to question the honor he does to the name of the Kaplan family. In truth, the lad has brought honor of to thy name as far as the hall of Bilskirnir in Asgard," says Thor, before he smiles down at the twins, those younger boys, and Sif softening to speak with them. Is that what she's going to look like? Thor can't help but wonder, and the smile warms even as it grows a touch wistful. What? It's a good look in Thor's mind.
Circus finally digs out the dress given to her by one of her friends. It is a neon pink version of an LBD. There aren't any shoes. She totally forgot to put them in her bag. Sighing, she still tugs her way into the stretchy dress, then looks down at her bare feet. Wiggling her toes in the grass she shrugs, then stashes her backpack up in the tree, minus the six pack. If she's going to look silly, she will look silly bearing her silly beers. Dieselpunk beer. The box was cool. After a deep breath she heads into the party, making her way up to Thor, waiting for Billy's family to meet tall blond and sexy. While she waits, she offers the host and hostess a big smile, neon painted toes wiggling.
"Thou didst forge it? Verily?" Fandral laughs at the thought, though it's not mocking. Just.. surprised, really.. and just thiiiiis side of disbelief. "I should like to wield it, to test its mettle, to feel the weight in mine hand." At Brynn's sipping of the mead, however, he tsks softly and shakes his head. "Thou dost fight like a proper man, but drink like a bird? Please.." and a breath chuffs in laughter. "How wilt thou convince this man of truth when thou drinkest so sparingly?"
Turning to J'onn, Fandral nods his encouragement. "There is naught that would harm thee within." And as if to show, he finishes what little is left in his tankard, and sets it down upon the drink table with a *thunk*. "More!"
After the dancing Ben waves to Kate, Fern, Eddie, Billy and other faces he recognizes from. He sees the correspondent from the LNN that Shaw guy and pays no nevermind. The man's view are worse than Bill O'Reilly, no relation, in Ben's mind. Sitting down at a table the teen just looks over the crowd seeing everyone having a good time.
Emma caught Shaw's thoughts and thought to read his mind regarding the subject of Erik at a later date. It always was better to get the full picture of a person. Her eyes wondered towards Kate. Her mind connected with Shaw's, |I want Kate. For my school, I think she would be a perfect fit. Oh, a classy little darling and so talented. Do you think she remembers Uncle Sebby fondly?|
As her eyes quickly glance about she spots J'onn across the room. She broadly thinks (perhaps loudly, just in case), curious if he will hear <I've heard you're a telepath, is it true>
Fern strolls the grounds, watching more than participating, drifting toward the drinks tables. Despite it being unaccustomed attire, she's comfortable in the long dress and heels, and she makes her way with a fair measure of grace through the assembled throng. Stopping to consider the options, she chooses something called a Champagne Dream. Unconsciously moving to the sway of the music playing, she steps aside, drink in hand, and mingles on the sidelines, giving a fingerwiggle wave to Ben. 
Eddie waves to a few people as he goes through the crowd, carefully ducking and dodging around people with practiced ease. Every so often, he nervously adjusts his tie. Eventually he ends up standing by Thor and Sif, offering silent greetings to people that come to see the gods.
So many big names. Rain's been out here and there for awhile. But, with the imp in a bowler hat atop her hat and holding a potted calla lily, Rain has decided to try the mead, too. "I don't know if giving you booze is such a good idea, even if you're at least 21 in demon years..." Rain comments to the imp atop her hat. He's pointing at the mead. With a sigh, she'll get him a sip's worth put into a cup. "You're odd." But she'll get some, too. She's watching for Thor and Sif, ever patient.
Hey, Kate does go to these things! She's just not as high profile as her sister. She wouldn't be a 'socialite' if she didn't.
Either way though, there's a nod at Ben, and even a slight glance and a nod in Eddies direction.
At least that is until her gaze locks onto Shaw and Frost. And for a moment or two, it lingers there, before finally she starts to drift over towards them.
"Ms. Frost. Mr. Shaw."
Looking up from the twins, who are graced with a soft and warm smile, Sif rises to greet Robbie. "Welcome then, Robbie Baldwin! It is a pleasure to have you!" The Goddess dips her head slightly to the boy, that soft smile still in place. Children have such a way of melting the War Goddess. "I hope you're enjoying yourself."
Circus draws her attention as well and the girl gets a smile. "Francesca! I am glad to see you." She dips her head to the young woman. It warms her to see so many of their friends gathered in one place and enjoying themselves.
A knowing look is given to Thor and she smiles before taking a sip of that blue liquid again. It has an interesting flavor, certainly.
When Eddie makes it to their side, she leans over to wrap one arm around the young man in a hug. "You don't have to keep the tie on, dear."
Billy Kaplan's brothers just stare a moment at Sif once she greets them finally getting them to tear their eyes away from Thor. As one they nod and give her smiles that under most circumstances would make Billy worry. "Yes'm." They reply a little awed by the incredibly good looking woman. "Are you a princess?" One of them asks before getting elbowed by his brother. "Duh, she is a Superhero like Thor, she is just in the dress cause its a party." 
Billy is not sure if he should laugh, or facepalm at his brothers. His parents however just grin indulgently. "The pleasure is ours." His father says to the greeting. "Our son has told us a lot about you...although not everything until just recently." He adds just a touch reproachfully. 
Rebecca Kaplan can't help but flush just a little at the greeting from Thor, but really what mortal woman would not? "We can only do our best when it comes to raising our children, but it makes us proud to learn he has made such good an impression." Which of course leads to Billy actually facepalming and letting out a small embarrassed groan. "Mooom..." "Hush, you can let your Mother gush over you. Especially to the people that have done as much for your friend Eddie as you have said Thor and Sif have." Which causes another small groan from the teen, especially when his mother reaches over to fix his hair that has managed to end up looking on them messy side before giving Eddie a wave.
For some reason, Brynn's assurances do more for the Martian. He takes a rather larger gulp of the spiced mead, studying her for a long moment, then murmuring, "--Are you?--" to the woman. Something indecipherable to all present. Emma's thoughts don't go unnoticed. He sends her a quick assent, not opening contact nor, yet, scanning for the other telepath. Bizarrely focused on poor Brynn. (--Spoken in Martian.)
Tony is usually fashionably late to functions. He's usually late on purpose. This time, however, it's different. Not long before the feast was to take place, the call went out to the Avengers for an assist. An emergency, but not one that the whole team was required. Knowing that this was a special day for Thor and Sif, he took the route of being late versus more than just himself being called out. Helping to quell some insurgents holding an embassy hostage, Iron Man made sure the attache and the embassy staff were safe before returning back to New York air space. Knowing the party was well underway and not wanting to be any later, he decides to land in the botanical garden into a convenient entry way where he steps through, armored faceplate retracting into the helmet. He saunters into the party like nothing's going on.
Sebastian looked at Emma suspiciously for a moment he honestly wasn't imagining she would be using her telepathy. But on second thought, this was Emma and that was sort of her thing. He would remember to keep his thoughts a bit tighter, |I was never her 'Uncle Sebbie' I just knew her parents rather well and had met the young girl on a few occasions. Though it has been years. I doubt she even remembers me.|
When Kate however comes over he says, "My, my, my." he smiled at her broadly and said, "Katherine Elizabeth Bishop, all grown up! This is quite the sight!"
"Friend Fandral, I have no need of nourishment. I simply sip to enjoy the flavor. However, speaking of drink... if you could pass a message along to the Thunderer... that if a toast is to be made, or if he intends to raise a glass... he should go ahead and open my gift first and put it to good use. He and the Lady Sif."
And now for the even more weirding out part for J'onn... Brynn may not be totally telepathic, but she does have the ability to pick up meanings of communications of any sort. "Am I what?" she asks in accented English back to the big green guy... her eyes totally guile-less as she adds, "And please forgive me, I do not think I have -heard- that language spoken before."
Pointing to himself, then to the dance floor, followed by himself again, then to his tie, and a hand pulls out the brainy specs. Ben isn't sure what Fern is tisking. Eventually he slips on the glasses for a moment then decides they just feel too weird before pocketing them. Smiling the teen is just happy to see everyone about. Something big is in the works. What it is he's not sure. He figures it's to announce some change to the Thor family dynamic. Somehow, someway. Ben's here for moral support and because he's invited, and what good friend would turn down a party that is more than a party? 
Suddenly brown eyes go wide as Iron Man just saunters into the room like it's no big deal. That's how Tony Stark rolls. While the teen doesn't like who Stark hires, he did like the man's panache. Having the guts to just walk into a party like that...it's just too cool for words.
When Fran is seen, Thor takes a moment from the parents, to smile at the girl, and reach for her to pull into an embrace. Because it's been awhile! 
"Francesca. My eyes see with joy! Welcome! Thy attire, as always, tickle the senses," Thor all but bubbles as he let's the colorful one go. And he's not even frazzled by the lack of shod feet! Eddie is given a warm smile, almost conspiratorially, before his attention returns to the parents and... the twins! Surprised by the question, Thor's eyes look to the boys. His smile grows broad and he looks to Sif, smile widening further (if possible). He juuuuuust manages to hold his tongue, for now! And so he turns to watch the interplay between Billy and his mother, Rebecca, and Thor can no longer restrain the urge to laugh. So he does laugh, and recklessly at that. His arms are itchy to just scoop up this family and give them a big Thor Hug! (tm)
 
"Hardly a party animal, my dear," Erik informs Emma. He faces her with a warm expression, leaning very slightly on his walking cane. "Perhaps I came here just to bask in your presence." A grin flickers across his face. "Truth- I'm interested in the sort of company the God of Thunder keeps. It's an occasion to rub elbows with folk I don't generally get to interact with." He nods affably towards a few familiar faces, recognizing a handful of folk in the crowd. "I do spend too much time sequestered in my offices," he admits wryly. "It's good for me to get out more often and 'make new friends', as my dear father used to tell me to do."
Harvey, the imp atop Rain's gambler hat is getting a sip of mead. This is almost as great as the day he discovered Golden Girls. Living with the witch who watches over Loki's stuff and sorts spiders has been GREAT! She sips some of the mead, wide-eyed at Fandral. But it's time to go greet people. She smiles at people in passing, moving over to greet Thor and Sif. She does look awkward holding a potted lily, but there's always a lingering awkwardness over Rain. The cling wrap of awkwardness, if you will.
The question from Billy's brother's have Sif blinking for a moment before her drink is sat aside and she kneels down in front of the boys. "Nay. I am no Princess." She looks back over her shoulder at Thor and then turns to the boys and points at the God, stage whispering, "Thor there is a Prince though." She stands and holds a hand out to each boy. "If your mother and father do not mind, why do we not go get you something to drink, hm?" Yep. Kids. All bets are off on who Sif will be paying most of her attention to this evening!
As she awaits permission to take the twins to get a drink, she notices Tony's entrance. It draws a warm and bright laugh from the Goddess as well as a shake of her head. "Tony, my dear friend!," is called out to the man. What an entrance!
And...the Martian drinks more mead, before turning back to Brynn. "My apologies. There is something about you that...strongly reminds me of my own kind." She's dressed like an Asgardian, but she's clearly not one. He keeps his voice very low. Whatever she is, she might not wish it to be known, after all.
"Hello Your Majesties." says Fran/Circus. "I brought completely unnecessary beverage. It's quite the spread you've got laid out." Rocking on her bare feet she offers the drool inducing God of Thunder the six pack. Before Thor can do any family scooping, she darts in for a hug and smooch on his cheek while trying to give away her booze. Then she tires the same tactic with Sif while the goddess is distracted by cuteness, "You look amazing Siffy! Amazing! Not that you don't always look amazing, but right now you look even more amazing than your normal amazing. So, double amazing. And then some."
"I'll k-k-keep it on," Eddie squeaks without meaning to. It's giving him something to occupy his hands with and spend some nervous and intimidated energy on. "Umm, h-hi, Mr. Kaplan, Mrs. Kaplan," he greets sheepishly. Billy gets a smile and a wave before Eddie offers a wave to the twins as well. He nods to Thor and starts to say something...but then there's Iron Man. Eddie's eyes go wide and his jaw drops. He's just going to stare now since nervous energy is fighting with fanboy energy and Eddie will need a moment for his brain to reboot.
"Bah.." Fandral scoffs, and laughs soon after. "Such a disappointment in mine eyes. Thou wilt have to show me something to redeem thyself," he teases. "Perhaps later.." Though to hear the request, the Warrior bows in acknowledgment if not acquiescence, "It will please me no end to pass on a message such at that."
Rain's pausing at the table gains Fandral's attention, and.. the imp? Reaching for his sword, more a dagger for such pleasant occasion, he calls, "Thou hast a creature upon thine head.." and he's ready to smite it!
It doesn't take long for Fern to kill off one Champagne Dream, and she quickly exchanges her empty glass for a full one as she makes another pass by the table. It's been a stressful week, but her time with Sif has brought a measure of ease, and she's content to drift aimlessly, exchanging smell talk with other guests, working her way through her second drink on a fairly empty stomach. Speaking of... there's an hors d'oeuvres table, isn't there? She steps through the garden, relishing the moment of feeling like an equal among the Gods, a moment she will never forget. And there are cheesecake filled strawberries! This is heaven. 
Emma is currently broadcasting directly to J'onn, |Oh I'm here, darling. A pleasure to meet you darling well, in our way. Pleased to hear the rumors are in fact true|
Emma reached out and gently touched Erik's arm, "As am I. I've been jealous of Sebastian here since he told me he made their acquaintance. I had far too much paperwork to finish myself, but I just had to tear myself away from the office as well. Excuse me a moment."
Her eyes turn towards Kate, "Kate Bishop. A pleasure. I've heard a lot about you."
Having said things, and waiting just a bit to talk to Thor, who is dealing with smaller young people at the moment, Robbie turns in a circle to take a look around. So many interesting people, he knows, and he's trying to stand still. Is that a...demon on that girl's hat? That blond guy is one of Thor's Asgardian friend; Eddie and Billy keep him informed. He sidles somewhere between Ben and Eddie, while Eddie speaks with Billy's parents. So he's right in the line of sight as Tony appears, and there's a little intake of breath.
Robbie clamps down on his mouth, his lips pulled inward as he bites down. It's an adult party. Adult. Adult. Still, he looks between Eddie and Ben, making eye contact, seeing their reactions, and nods, eyes alight. "I know, right?"
Odd thing about Brynn. She's not all that super ultra private about who and what she is. She simply... doesn't really bring it up because she has learned that most mortals are a bit less than comfortable being referred to as such. At this party however, hosted by a god and a goddess, things are... well, you might say different. She somehow understood J'onn but doesn't know the actual language, which is another one of those creepy things she does. "When the party ends then friend Fandral, I can show you the forge, and give you your pick of swords forged by mine own hands." But then to J'onn... see she doesn't pick up on the fact that he's communicating with someone else, but she does ask, "Well, if you mistook me for one of your own, it would not be the first time I was mistaken for that which I am not." She casts a smirking glance towards Sif and Thor before shaking her head and setting those red locks to bouncing about, "But what, pray tell... was it that I was mistaken for -this- time?"
There's a slight smile, and even a tilt of her head to the side at what Shaw says, before Kate chuckles.
"It's nice to know that I'm remembered Mr. Shaw. After all, you probably see my father more often than I do." is said as she tries to smile. "All though if things hadn't come up, you probably would of seen me a few weeks ago at the club party."
Of course at the mention of the Hellfire Club party, Kate can't help but think back to how she was doing something she considers /actually useful/, such as volunteering at a soup kitchen, rather than hanging around people who could buy and sell entire countries on a whim.
Then though, there is a belated nod to Erik.
"And I'm sorry if I'm interrupting. but considering my father, I felt I had to at least say 'Hi'."
Then though there is an odd glance at Emma, "I'm almost afraid to ask what you've heard Ms. Frost."
"I sense in you the same level of...control of self...possessed by a Martian, but I see now that I am mistaken. It was, in any case, wistful thinking." Albeit not entirely, given another survivor *did* show up, after all. J'onn drinks some more of his mead. Emma? She does get a silent response. | It is no *great* secret. I find it useful to intimidate my opponents. |
 
"Not at all," Erik murmurs to Emma, as she breaks. He waits a few moments for the ladies to make their exchange, then clears his throat and smiles benevolently at Kate. It's an expression that's at once symapthetic and engaging, and apparently, utterly sincere. "I'm afraid I haven't had the pleasure. Erik Lehnsherr, at your service, Miss Bishop," he says, with a click of his heels and a short bow to the woman. It's a stately gesture long since abandoned by Americans, but deeply rooted in the oldest European traditions. "How are you finding the party thus far?"
"Reed sometimes will act like they're friends and in competition, but say whatever you want about Stark...guy can make an entrance. If he also wants to make it rain and toss a few hundreds are way, just to y'know...solidify the cool entrance, I wouldn't say no," Ben comments idly to his two teammates. "I mean..Donald Trump does similar when he enters arenas and Stark is at least cooler than Trump. We can all agree on that. Plus Stark's hair isn't one giant combover," another plus! 
Ben waves to Fern trying to get her to come over to meet his friends. Jocelyn is given a similar wave but she looks too busy doing her thing. "We should hook up Joce with someone. She's a pretty girl that should be beating away people with her MMA moves. Any suggestions?"
Rebecca Kaplan nods her assent to Sif. Billy has told her enough about the woman, and she can plainly see just how she is reacting to the boys, that she decides almost instantly she can be trusted. "I don't mind, but boys remember..." 
As their mother starts Billy's brothers give a small sigh and finish for her. "Just one soda, then water for the rest of the night." Such poor put upon things, but they know the rule has its reasons...not that caffine is going to be needed to keep them up all night when they do eventually go home anyway.
Billy grins and is about to say something when he hears the sounds of Ironman's repulsors and blinks turning to stare. "I...ok bonus points for style." 
Rebecca and Jeff both watch Billy's reaction to Ironman and share a small smile before Reecca moves over to give Eddie a small hug in greeting as well. "Hello Eddie, how areyou doing?"
Another glass is exchanged to a full one, and Fern's eyes take an impish gleam as she wanders through the crowd, making her way toward Ben and his friends. She steps up to the small grouping, her warm smile extending to each in turn, resting finally on Ben. "Hey there. It's good to see a familiar face or two in the crowd. It's such a lovely party." 
A Fran hug and a Fran kiss. Thor's last free hand takes the beer as the THunderer smiles. When her turning toward Sif, there's little reply left, and so Thor glances for a passing waiter and... sets the 6 pakc on the tray. His hand takes a bottle as it withdraws. With his thumb, Thor flicks off the metal cap (and it's not one of those twist off kind found on most domestic beers) and brings the beer to his lips. That's when he spots Tony's entrance. The beer is taken from his lips, and in his joy at seeing Tony, he forgets to keep an eye on Fandral. (Sorry, Rain!)
"Tony Stark!" booms out the Thunderer, tone once more merry and bright and welcoming and warm and almost childish. It's clear that THor would have waved hugely if he had the hands for it - beer in one, redwood box under the other. Happily, Thor glances about the party, a smile on his face. He seems to decide something, then nods to those around him after chugging the gifted beer.
"Do not chide the boy for such decisions. I freely admit to having made quite the number of choices which I neglected to tell my own parents of or else lied about completely. And when one's Father is the Allfather of Asgard, with an all-seeing guardian as a vassal.. well, i truly should have learned my lesson much sooner than I did. But for now, I must beg thy pardon for but a few moments," Thor says to Dr. Rebecca Kaplan to free himself so he can make his way toward the steps of the gazebo.
As he had finished his scotch so he stopped a waiter and order a second. He rolled his eyes at the overdone Iron Man enterance and muttered something about how Anthony always was a show boat, 
Back to Kate Bishop he said, "Katherine, no, no, no. You're not interrupting anything, at all. Besides you're father is an ass, you don't need to say hello to me on his account."
When he saw Erik introducing himself it took all of his self control not to shake his head and to tell him aloud that she wasn't a mutant and to back off, "I'm sorry you were not at our last charity ball, though I did donate a $10,000 to the soup kitchen you were at... a very acceptable reason not to attend, I agree."
A very small smile appears on the corners of her mouth. She knows only what the general public is aware of about J'onn but the excitement was there, |The only other telepath I've ever met is a pompous ass. So you'll have to forgive my excitement.|
Emma responds after Erik and Shaw make their comments to Kate and ads in "Sebastian here has mentioned you, and I take special notice of bright young minds and talents."
A soft laugh is given at the antics of the twins before she holds a hand out for each of them. "Excuse me, please," She's already moving acoss the garden when Thor bellows for Tony and it causes the Goddess to smile and give a shake of her head.
As she walks, she pauses near Ben and Sern. "Ben. Fern. I am most pleased that you were able to make it." She gives a bow of her head to both. "I shall have to come back and talk to you both after the children on seen to."
With a smile to the twins, the three continue walking and as they pass J'onn, Brynn and... "Fandral, no! It is well. Rain would bring nothing to harm anyone. Stay your sword and go introduce yourself to the young lady." And then to the other two, "I shall return in a moment."
Finally, she's able to reach the drink table, a fruit juice being ordered for both boys. She looks at them and kneels once more, as if she's about to share a secret. "This is one of my favorite drinks where I come from."
"When the party ends, come the 'morrow, aye. I should be glad to visit thy forge." Assuming he's still standing, that is! Fandral takes the brief opportunity to refill his tankard, and with a sloshed gesture towards Thor and Sif, he turns about to blink at Tony Stark, the small dagger in hand ignored for the moment. "What in the nine realms..?"
Thor's holding of the box, however, brings back words, and he calls out, "Thor! My brother!" His is a booming voice, the blond Warrior of the Three, and striding forward, tankard still in hand, he interrupts, though he stares for a long moment at .. the half mortal, half machine.. thing. "Boon was asked of me, to ask you to open your cask before too much longer.. if a toast is to be made, the lady Brynnhildr asked that her offering be used." There. Message passed!
Iron Man makes his way in, red and gold armor gleaming. First he makes his way to Sif, "Sorry I'm late, guys. The American Embassy in Kerplakistan was blitzed by well armed rebels." he greets Sif with a hug. He makes his way to Thor and greets him with a pat on the shoulder, "Thor! Glad I could make it - need a hand?"
"Maggie!" Ben booms then points to Eddie and Robbie, "These are good friends of mine Eddie and Robbie. Pointing to Fern, "This is Fern, best waitress on this side of the state. She serves a killer canoli and will treat you like a king in your booth. Plus she's an awesome fan and can probably outquiz you in the Walking Dead," that last bit may be a lie but they didn't need to know that. "Sit!" Ben says in a friendly manner. "Eat, sleep, be marry and whatever else our mutual Godly friends would say!" 
Looking to Eddie and Robbie, "So guys. Fern could probably help us out and figuring out who to hook Jocelyn up with. Also, Fern is good people." 
Seeing Sif bow to him and Fern Ben stands then formally bows, "Lady Sif, hostess of this party and fierest of those on Asgard. My humblest thanks to you and yours for hosting this party we are all indulging in. Your kindness knows no limit." Casually Ben rises then sits back down when the lady leaves.
The gesture from Erik towards Kate actually brings a genuine smile to her lips as he goes through those movements.
"To be honest, I'm impressed. I wasn't sure what to expect when I was invited."
Then there's a slight shake of her head as Kate glances back at Shaw.
"Actually I do. Let's just say that part of the arrangement I have with my father these days is trying to repair some of the damage he does by being an ass." Usually via charity stuff and making donations in his name, but Kate doesn't say that.
Then though there is a slight tilt of her head at Emma.
"So I've heard. But I won't poke just what sorts of talents you're looking for these days."
Where some have impish gleams, Rain has ... an actual Imp! She blinks, eyes widening at Fandral. The violet-eyed witch seems surprised. "Oh! That's Harvey. I saved him at a magical bazaar once," She smiles up to the tall fellow. "Thank you for being concerned." She seems appreciative, though Harvey looks less amused. He's not wanting to get smote! "Um. I don't think we've met?"
"Ah, Martian... we visited that world a few times. But my people are actually from this world. Though evolved by outside forces beyond... well, beyond mortality." offers Brynn as she sips her drink once more. Then... the imp on Rain's head, as well as the shiny armored individual named Tony Stark both grab her attention, "Pray tell... I had thought that the armored Knight Errant had gone out of style centuries past." she says towards J'onn.... but then she looks to Rain and Fandral, not really possessing a blade to aid the Asgardian warrior with, but... weaponless does not mean helpless. Then Fandral calls out and she winces, "My friend, if I had wished it shouted from the rooftops, I could have done that myself." she sighs then and looks to J'onn with an expression that is as expressive as it is timeless... it's that helpless.. what'cha gonna do? look.
Eddie jumps and lets out an undignified little squeak when Rebecca hugs him and snaps him out of his little brain-broken moments. "I um...I'm still working on that one," he says. He snares that look with Robbie and Ben, fanboy mode shining through again. He watches as Sif and the twins go before blinking in Ben's direction. He quietly and subtlely tries to gesture towards Robbie in answer to his question for suggestions. Fandral coming over gets Eddie jumping again. "I um...hi?" he offers. Another wave is given to Maggie.
Fern directs her warm smile to each of Ben's companions, acknowledging, "I've met Eddie. It's good to see you again. And very nice to meet you, Robbie." Her attention shifts to Sif, looking delighted to be addressed, "Lady Sif, you look... stunning." Her admiration is genuine and softly stated, before she turns back to Ben. "I didn't know you would be here, it's nice to actually know a few people." Her brow furrows lightly as she takes another drink from her glass, almost emptying the third. "Jocelyn? I can't imagine she needs 'fixing up'." 
In a much quieter voice when Tony approaches, his steps halted just before reaching the gazebo, Thor smiles at his friend. 
"Aye, Tony. Be sure there is a drink in thy hand, and stand with me?" asks the Thunderer, even as his hands are heeding Fandral's given missive and opening the box. Is this the Prince suppressing a light flutter of nerves and anxiety? When the box is opened, the Prince physically stops. Had he needed breath, he'd have stopped breathing. As it is, his eyes widen in awe and wonder. 
"Though... at the moment... I think... that is... could you... ask Sif...?" Point Brynhildr, Thor's brain mus tnow reboot too.
Did Fandral hear correctly? What? Sif?! "Fiercest?!" The blond warrior turns about to look for the person who designated Sif in such a way, a laugh ready upon his lips. Ben.. he's not met the man, but he stands in need of correcting. "She is not the fiercest, nay.. but perhaps the most comely as she smites.." Eddie, for the moment, is ignored.. but not for any other reason but to be sure Ben is properly corrected!
J'onn responds to the look with one of his own. To Emma, | I can be a pompous ass at times. | Why, no, the Martian does not take himself too horrendously seriously. Seriously, yes, but not horrendously so. He relaxes, though. Out loud, "Then I apologize again." He snags some bacon wrapped pineapple from a nearby tray, munching on it. Interesting. Different.
So, with the host and hostess greeted, Francesca wanders. Yes, she wanders right for the booze. She quickly downs a couple of samples to get warmed up, then moves along with a drink in either hand, her nose leading her after that bacon wrapped pineapple.
Jeff Kaplan can only grin and shrug a little at Thor. "Oh we are not mad at him, even with what he has left out on occasion our son has never lied to us outright. Besides who hasn't left out important information on exactly what they are doing when telling parents?" He asks giving his wife one of those knowing grins. 
The twins are quiet easily lead away, although they spend most of the trip to the drinks table craning their heads around to look at all the Superheroes. They take the offered juice with small grins as they are let in on the secret of how much Sif likes the stuff.
Rebecca nods to Eddie and then smiles at her husband. "And it is not like we did not know about most of it even if he had not told us. One does not need to be all seeing to catch on, just observant. Besides, a Mother always knows." The two parents nod as Thor takes his leave and Rebecca puts a hand on her son's shoulders to give it a light squeeze before saying. "We are going to go mingle you have fun with your friends." 
With his parents gone Billy relaxes just a little. "Jocelyn? Fixed up? I...do we know anyone that might survive that?" Billy asks Eddie while listening into the conversation and then casting a look in Robbie's direction.
Emma clearly is making the girl somewhat uncomfortable, when she wishes to recruit she is a bit direct, "The future, darling. I look for talents that will shape the future, in every skill for my school. Perhaps we can have a chat about it another day."
She laughed in her mind at his response, |Oh we all can be darling. Regardless, I will leave you be. But I wanted to just say hello, if what I heard was true. I would adore to meet you in person when you are available.|
From where she stands, awaiting the juice for the twins, Sif turns to look over at Fandral. There's a small huffed snort from the Goddess before she rolls her eyes. "Would you like to test that, Fandral?" Not during the parting of course but she'd be more than willing to put the man in his place!
With the juice properly secured for the children, she leads them back to their mother and once more kneels to give each a kiss on the forehead. "I expect you each to save me dance."
She then rises and looks around for Thor. Her brows draw together for a moment and when she finally spots him, she weaves her way through the crowd to make her way to his side. "Beloved?" She's still a foot or so from him and entirely behind him so she has no idea what he's staring at, but she's obviously concerned.
Rain will make her way, imp and all to Fandral and Sif. "Um. Can't you be evenly fierce? Like, mother bears are REALLY fierce, but so-" She's not sure where she's going with this. "Um, hi!" Right. Harvey waves, too. "We - brought a potted lily. It's a Calla one." The Lily of Please Don't Punch Me, if you will.
With Fern, Robbie is a lot less formal than with Sif. He extends a hand to shake hers. "Great to meet you. And if they are the best cannolis, count me there." Yeah, like he needs more sugar." He's calmed down a little since he's around people he knows, so his shoulders aren't so stiff, and he's starting to enjoy himself. The commentary about Jocelyn, and lifts one of those relaxed shoulders. "Maybe ask her?"
"You know you're probably good but you know who you're talking to, right Mr. Elwes? I loved you in Stoker's Dracula and Men in Tights. And man you killed it in Princess Bride. And it's good to see you back in green again, but you're not better than Sif. So please apologize to the hostess," yes Ben knows he's not talking to the Cary Elwes. He's talking to some asgardian that's probably more than skilled. However this dead ringer for Elwes's son in a sequel for the Princess Bride is not a friend of Ben's. Not yet anyway. Thusly, the quips come out. "Can we please talk Princess Bride sequels. I know a few people that could step in for Andre for the Brute Squad."
"Nothing to apologize for mister..." says Brynn, trying to exhort a name from J'onn. "My name is Brynhildr... of Polaria, and may I know yours?" she asks politely of J'onn. Her eyes are flickering towards Thor now and then though, as she doesn't want to miss the... upcoming event and/or announcement or whatever it is.
"J'onn J'onzz of Mars," he introduces, quite formally. Not that Brynhildr is likely to know that name...he wasn't anyone that important. Once. On Mars. Just a detective. Now? Amongst humans, he's something else, not that far from a minor deity in his own right.
Uncomfortable? Not exactly. But the fact that Emma is trying to recruit someone who graduated from a different private school already could be considered a bit... Confusing. Especially considering what Kate's been doing regarding college.
"If you want to, we can."
Fern takes Robbie's hand, her own warm and soft but not limp like a dead fish. "You can try the cannoli, actually, they're part of the dessert menu tonight." While she's met him before, like Ben, he was costumed and she doesn't recognize him from that brief encounter no more than she places Eddie as having been there as well. Her eyes drift aside to the burly Asgardian, Fandral, lingering for a moment before they're moving again to take in the bustle of the feast. 
Put him in his place? The finest swordsman in Asgard? Fandral postures, and laughs, reaching out to place a finger under Sif's chin in a tease. "There is ne'er a time when I would not wish to spend time banging mine weapon against thine, looking for that opening that I know is there from experience."
Turning to Ben now, Fandral's brows rise and he stands a little straighter. "Dost thou know to whom you spout nonsense, boy?" He shakes his head, that gleam in those blue eyes glinting with good humour, "It is good that a child runs to his mother, or one like it, to hide under her skirts.. but thou hast been cautioned. Speak again when thou hast knowledge of such things."
Francesca stops her pursuit of the bacon in order to gulp down some...apparently the right hand is mead. Shaking her head at the taste of it, she looks over towards Sif and Fandral, eyes wide. "Holy fudge! Did he just say that?" She talks to the empty air, or perhaps her drink. Maybe Sue Storm dropped in or something.
"Nice to meet you Mister J'onnz. Perhaps when the events here are finished, you can tell me of your people and your world. I would very much love to know about them." offers Brynn before she smirks towards Fandral and Sif, "I did not bring weapons with which to arm you two for a duel, so Fandral, you shall have to wait for your thrashing at the hands of the Lady Sif, until another time. Alright?" she adds.
Iron Man grins at Thor, "Grab a drink? Oh consider THAT done." in moments Tony has a drink at the ready. He was almost ready to grab one from the flask he installed in the suit, but that's for emergencies. Soon enough a drink is in his hand and he's standing near Thor as requested. He hasn't had much more time to socialize yet, but his eyes are taking in the party and it's attendees. Definitely people to see, meet, and talk to tonight.
Shaw, now having received his second drink at this event, but more likely the fifth of the night, nodded at Kate, "And I will say this, you've done much to improve his reputation. Undeserved as it is, because it is you Katherine, not him, who is doing this good. This constant good, and most of it goes to Derek, I apologize, your father."
He took a drink and considered what he wanted to say, "Your better than your father; and you always will be. I should know, I've been an associate of him for nearly 25 years."
The song playing became The Blue Danube Waltz and he then left Kate to consider that as he turned to Emma, his mind now turned into a steel trap because he knew she was using her telepathy, "My darling Emma, would you allow this old man, a dance?"
Not backing off Ben just rises slowly, "I admit it you're better than I am," Ben says with a fake spanish accent. Someone's trying to sound like Indigo. "But I do not hide under skirts. Now do I get caught outside with Robin Hood's costume on at a clearly black tie event. Also, I am not left-handed," his eyes burn with the same humor. Sure references may be lost but Ben isn't backing down. Although his Indigo impression could use some work.
 
"If you'll excuse me." Erik nods affably to Emma, Kate, and Shaw, and begins moving through the crowd. His course is a meandering affair that brings him through the hors d'oeuvers, then past the buffet line and to the bar. A double shot of vodka, on the rocks, with a twist of lime. Simple and clear- and great deal more potent than it looks. Much like Erik. 
His path wends through the crowds, and he nods affably at Billy and Eddie as he passes the younger men. He finally finishes his course near Thor and Sif's table, and clears his throat politely to gain their attention. "Master Odinson," Erik says, with a short bow- a peer, greeting a peer, and a gesture likely not lost on the God of Thunder. "I wished to thank you for your hospitality. Lehnsherr, Erik Lehnsherr," he says by way of introduction. "I am the Executive Director of the Mutant Action Center. It was quite courteous of your staff to extend me the invitation, though I am embarrassed to say we've not yet had a chance to be introduced in person," he says, explaining his presence. "I hoped I could remedy that rather glaring omission on my part."
Eddie chuckles softly and then whispers to Billy. "Robbie could. I'm trying t-t-to set them up together," like he did Billy and Teddy. Fanboy energy and nervous energy may not be able to win against one another but there's one thing that snaps Eddie right out of his little nervous-bouncy state and that's Fandral's interactions with Ben. He misses the humor in the Asgardian's tone and moves to put himself between Ben and Fandral. "Excuse me," he says firmly. "Please d-do not threaten or mock my friends, sir. He's not making fun or Sif or trying to insult her so please just stop," he says. Ben gets a little 'please do not antagonize him?' look before Eddie looks back to Fandral. Yes, this tiny little mortal is standing up to Asgard's finest swordsman and managing to look like he's not intimidated...he is...but he's not showing it.
Billy Kaplan 's brothers both nod enthusiastically as Sif tells them that they need to save a dance each for her. "Yes Miss Sif." Both of them wear matching wide smiles as she walks away before starting a hurried low conversation of some kind between them. 
Over in the part of the world Billy is in though, things are getting interesting. First Ben goes and insults someone that, although he has yet to meet him, Billy can recognize as one of the more dangerous Asgardains to poke. And then there is Fandral himself. "Um, Ben? After that cheesy double entendre I am pretty sure that is Fandral of the Warriors Three, and while if what Volstag said is right I am pretty sure Sif could take him it would take all four of us working together to survive a fight if he really put himself into it." Billy says the all four of us bit pointing to himself, Eddie, Robbie and Ben.
Fern moves lightly to the waltz without realizing it, perhaps just a little fuzzy headed from the three now history champagne drinks. And she really does like the way her fancy skirt rustles as she moves, and the glitter of her shoes. Curious eyes light on an older gentleman as he joins Sif and Thor, recognizing Erik Lehnsherr from seeing him across the room at the Hellfire Club. She's also noted others from that night in attendance. As the gentlemen around her seem somewhat involved in a measure of posturing, she drifts lightly away by a few steps. Then a few steps more. 
Emma gave Kate a small smile and walked with Shaw towards the gazebo. She let out a soft laugh at his comment and that his mind was suddenly shot off. Emma spoke quietly, "You age like a fine wine darling. And I was hoping you would ask that."
Sebastian took her hand and the two of them preformed an anachronistic waltz. Shaw deeply bowed to Emma holding his hand out, and when Emma took his hand they began to dance right when the Blue Danube hit it's high point. Dancing quickly together, close but not too close as were the rules of the time period. Shaw said nothing, as the song slowed back down just smiling at Emma.
And as Emma and Shaw dance, and Erik wanders off, Kate shakes her head, before her gaze drifts back towards Eddie, ben, Billy, and Robbie.
Robin Hood? Fandral pauses a moment, and there's a flicker of -something- that crosses his face before his eyes narrow. Raising his head, he's ready to whistle for his horse; the animal has his swords, after all. What good is being one of the Three if he is unprepared for battle in service to his Prince and Asgard? 
Billy's words gain Fandral's attention, and he inclines his head in acknowledgment of the words. "Aye," he says quietly..
It's Eddie's words that move Robbie. When he stands up to the blond guy, Robbie wanders over to stand with Billy, as Eddie's backup. Thankfully, he doesn't say anything at all. He's in Best Behavior Mode tonight. Still, his eyes go back and forth between the people involved, wondering what the price would be for blowing his secret-ish identity here, of all places.
Sif might have been about to respond to what Fandral says but instead she looks over to Ben and smiles warmly. "My friend. He meant no offense to me.. It was but playful banter. That you would defend me so, however, is truly touching. Thank you." Instead of bowing, Ben actually coaxes a curtsy from the Goddess!
Her attention then turns to Fandral, eyes softening in sympathy as she reaches out to lightly touch his arm. "Fandral, dear friend..." She gives his arm a light squeeze in silent strength and support.
Ben stands there just eying Fandral, "I am still waiting for such apology to Sif. And for you to find Blinken. I love that guy!" the bad Indigo voice still rolling from his tongue. Eddie is between them and Billy's words sink in. Okay this is pretty bad. However, Ben is still not backing down. "I do not mean to disrespect you. I'm a fan, but you did insult my friend. So I cannot apologize for my actions to you and yours, until you've done the same. Also, I request an autograph." Even if it's not Mr. Elwes this guy sounds quite famous given the reputation he carries. An autograph has to go for something on Asgard, right? "Those are my-," Ben's cut off from Sif's actions. Then the teen drops the accent, "Apologies Sir Fandral. I was merely defending my friend's honor and commenting on your striking resemblance to an actor that has captured the hearts of many while making them simultaneously unable to remember his name. You, however, has a name that precedes you. For whatever disrespect I've caused I apologize to you, sir."
Rain is quiet, appreciative of Fandral's Imp Intervention. Harvey looks less amused. But she, for her part, stands nearby quietly. Loki's apprentice is like, the least likely apprentice since Magical Newt came onto stage.
At the sound of Sif's voice, Thor half turns toward Sif, Brynn's open box in his hands. That awed, slightly overwhelmed expression on his face, which darkens suddenly at Fandral's posturing. A flicker of lightning flashes across his eyes just once.
"My betrothed and I will need drinks," Thor says to Fandral in that not a request sort of way while handing over the box to Fandral. The motion indicates that the Prince means for Fandral to see that the two items within are filled with a drink suitable for toasting and speech-making. He then puts a hand on Tony's shoulder, as if steadying the man in armor at his side, but by the grip of it, Tony could tell that its truly the other way around. His free hand reaches out for Sif's, to pull her near. His stormy gaze shifts to Mr. Lehnsherr as the mutant of magnetism steps forward. Thor copies his bow, exactly as it was offered, the smile polite and welcoming.
"It is a pleasure to so meet thee, Erik Lehnsheer, Executive Director of the Mutant Action Center. I am warmed to see thee warmly welcomed here, and do hope to have the chance to get to speak with thee further," says the Thunderer to Erik, as he awaits for the dancing song to end and Fandral to return with the items from the box filled with drink. (http://www.german-toasting-glasses.com/images/drinking_horn_933z9500k.jpg) 
When the horns are returned, Thor hands one to Sif, keeping the other for himself, and then turns to ascend the three steps of teh gazebo with Sif at his side. There's a nod for Tony to join him as well. He makes no indication for Eddie to join them, feeling the boy may take this better if he was with friends. And, given the proximity of Fandral and Sif and that table to where they were just standing, he's near enough for Asgardian nobility. Thor looks to the DJ, and the man lowers the volume of the music by degrees. 
"Friends. Brothers at Arms. Companions. Hail. Welcome and well-met all. I thank thee all for attending this joyous occassion of Thrimilci, a feast of joy and the promise of a good planting season to come. This day is also a day of announcements, and it was our wish that our friends, their families and loved ones, be with us; a joy shared is a joy redoubled.
It was decreed upon Asgard, by my father, Odin Borson, King of Asgard, the One-eyed and the Allfather, many centuries ago that the houses of Odin and of Guardian be joined by the marriage of the Odinson and the Lady of Blades, Sif Ragnahilde. The date has been set and is so announced: The Knot shall be formally and fully tied three fortnights hence, on the Fullest Day of Summer, the Soltace of the Sun; and the Nine Realms shall rejoice and be marry as Odin's Hall hosts this grand ceremony."
Here Thor pauses briefly, but clearly does not look finished. During the pause he flicks a glance at Sif and one at Tony, with the briefest of almost modest and bashful grins. And then he turns back to the gathering and continues.
"In light of this, the Allfather has formally and fully acknowledged that which was offered by his eldest and pride-filled son. And so, to thee all I shall formally introduce: Eddie Thorson, Spear of Thurdheim, Messenger of the Goddess, Son of Sif Ragnahilde. So is it upon Asgard, and soon shall it be upon Midgard; and so let all here bear witness that this Child of Earth, the mortal hero Eddie, is taken unto the House of Thor as son and protected. Let none seek him ill lest the might of Bilskirnir, the Goddess of War, the Warriors Three, the House of Thor, and some day the Throne of Asgard be upon their doorstep."
Again, a brief pause, and a look to Eddie. Thor bows to the lad.
"And none of what thou doth see before thee would have been possible for my betrothed without the aid of our dearest friend, a mortal who would sit very well among the warriors in the halls of Vahalla. Tony Stark, Iron Man, it is with a warm heart and a grateful heart that I say to thee: Thank You Very Much." 
And here Thor lifts the drinking horn above his head, an offer for all those gathered to do the same.
"For all of this, let us drink and rejoice and be merry!" 
And Thor brings the horn to his lips and drains it in one go.
Fern has found another full glass of the champagne concoction in her hand, and she listens raptly to Thor's speech. At the end she lifts her glass with the others assembled, offering her good wishes and gratitude. Her eyes still roam the gathering as she sips and she drifts farther from Ben, Fandral and the others, looking for respite among the flowers and unknown party goers. 
Shaw applauded for Thor and Sif, a bit put out that he was not mentioned be he understood why, you can only speak of so many when making announcements like that. He looked at Emma and said, "I told you, this would be a night to remember. I didn't lie."
Martian Manhunter already knew part of the announcement. He claps, as humans are wont to do, but there's a mixture of happiness and wistfulness in the Martian's eyes. Don't mind him. Wedding announcements have that effect.
For Emma there was a tone of romance to the day, and after hearing Thor's speech the reason is made clear. The surprisingly charming dance with Shaw didn't hurt, either. Perhaps they needed to make more time for one another beyond their business and schemes, she clapped for the exciting news before wrapping her arm around his. "You did. And You always have a nose for these things."
She arranges for the waiter to refill all of the surrounding persons drinks to be refilled telepathically.
Billy Kaplan takes a small breath and offers a friendly smile at Fandral. "Please sir, he really does mean no disrespect but we are all intensely loyal to Lady Sif and he did not realize you are as old a friend of hers as you are.. Er, as much an old friend of hers that is." For a second an odd look crosses his face as something starts tickling the back of his thoughts. "Sir, I am William Kaplan, Shield of Thor and I would offer to buy you a drink if they were not on the house tonight." He offers the last suddenly wondering why this exact moment seems so familiar...and why he keeps imagining the whole thing narrated by Volstag. Of course then the thoughts of the stories he was told when he met him and Hogun are put on hold as Thor gets up to speak. Witht he formal announcment of hte marrage and Eddie's adoption Billy can only smile and applaud his friend.
Iron Man raises his glass, likewise aware of one but not so much of the other. He drinks all of his drink in one go as well, and when able, calls for a refill. In response to being thanked by the Thunderer he just smiles, "The least I could do, big guy. Glad to help." - that refill won't be coming soon enough.
Being near Billy and the others, Rain tilts her head. "Um. I guess if he gets bored... I'll be sure to let you know if anything big and mean pops up. There's been an odd weakening- um, metaphysics would bore you," A handwave. She can try, right? But then, a speech! Rain falls quiet. Oh wow. Rain's eyes are wide. Harvey, too. She smiles, lifting her glass at the end as others do. Harvey as well. The two are very happy. "That's wonderful," Nod. She's trying not to be too awkward. Trying.
Ben hears the anouncement then eyes Eddie. A knowing nod exchanges between Billy, Robbie and Ben. Together the teens hoist their friend and teammate, Eddie, onto their shoulders. Once Eddie is secure Ben cries out, "THREE CHEERS FOR EDDIE THORSON, SPEAR OF THURDHEIM!!!! HIP-HIP!!!" He waits for the outcry then screams, "HIP-HIP!!!" Another wait before a final, "HIP-HIP!" Ben would say more of the title but forgot most of it. The meaning and gravity is not lost on Ben, this is Eddies moment. And in case Eddie tries to leave the Allies are going to make sure he embraces it.
"About time!" says Circus from her spot in the crowd. She then drains one of her drinks and lifts the empty to the sky, "Wooo! Way to go you two! Yaay!" She's got happy tears in her eyes and adds on more cheering, "Way to go Eddie!" A random server gets hugged and kissed, then she starts making her way up to hug and kiss the trio. Anyone in her way is in danger of getting the business to, so watch out.
"A thousand years," Fandral murmurs, "has it been so long?" Turning to the young Billy as he speaks, the Warrior has that mask of levity easily in place. His tankard has been long forgotten, but at the mention of being.. the Shield of Thor, it does take the man by surprise. The offer of drink from one so young gains a smile, and a headshake. "It has been quite some time, and many battles.."
Still, Thor appears.. unamused. When he is handed the box, Fandral bows, the fist upon his chest, and turns stiffly to attend that which has been demanded of him. Once he returns, it is handed off, and he stands to the side, listening.
The marriage announcement.. And there.. the Warriors Three are invoked for protection of the mortal child.. and blue eyes turn to look to Eddie once more, memorizing the lad.. his posture, his bearing, and looking out over the crowd. The raising, then, of Eddie brings his attention around, and at first, a step in their direction is taken.. and ceases.
Eddie glances back at Billy, Ben, and Robbie, and offers him that little 'endless faith/about to do something crazy' smile. Taking a deep breath, he looks to Fandral again. "D-despite what my friend says, Fandral-sir...if you try t-t-to hurt any of them, I will stop you. You're stronger and a b-b-better fighter than me but I will not let you hurt them. Especially not t-t-tonight during what's supposed to be a celebration. So I'll ask that you b-both please just get a drink, sit down, and enjoy the party," he goes on, standing firm like he has against people like Loki and even Thor himself. Ben and Sif speaking up makes him jump slightly though. He looks at them both, a little embarrassed now. 
He falls silent as Thor begins his speech, listening quietly. He can't help but grin as Thor reveals the upcomming wedding. He's been dying to tell someone that but he kept it secret like Thor and Sif asked him to. But then Thor starts talking about him and Eddie goes crimson. He looks around at the others and rubs the back of his neck sheepishly. He returns the bow very slightly since it seems like the thing to do. Then he's suddenly getting hoisted up, flailing a little. "I what where...oh man," he squeaks, turning redder still and managing a smile.
And as all of that is said...
As things that could be considered over due are done...
Kate shakes her head even as she joins in the applause.
Only as she watches Eddie, she does make a note or two in regards to things she may have to talk to him about. Later.
The horn is handed to Sif and the Goddess' eyes widen and take on a watery sheen. Immediately, they shoot to Brynn and she gives the warmest of grateful smiles to her friend as well as a small dip of her head in acknowledgement. She'll have to speak to the woman later.
Her fingers laced with Thor's, she follows the God and Tony to the gazebo's center. She remains silent as Thor makes his speech but there's no denying the pride and joy, the sheer excitement that fills the Goddess.
Thor's gaze is met with a smile of pure love and a light squeeze of his hand before her attention returns back to the crowd. It isn't so much that Sif doesn't have anything to say but if she were attempt to speak at the moment, she'd never be able to do so. Instead, she simply raises her own horn above her head and then brings it down to her lips and, like Thor, finishes it all at once.
Seeing Kate not in the team hoisting Ben signals for her to join them. The Allies should be together in full. He even mouths, "Little help?" Hopeful their leader, in his eyes, whould join them. In some weird way Ben sees the group as a family and no one should be excluded.
At the marriage announcement, Robbie puts his fingers in his mouth and whistles, loudly. This is an Asgardian celebration; imagine what a wedding will be like! Of course, Robbie's picturing it like a Midgardian wedding. It's probably not like that, at all. When the announcement on Eddie is made, while he was told in advance, still makes the young man suddenly aware that there's dust or something else in his eyes because he's not going to cry in front of the Asgardian Thunder God comma dammit. He crouches down to help hoise Eddie up, and cheers loudly at Ben's calls. After that, he's just laughing, giddy at the whole damned thing.
 
Erik joins the polite applause, and with another small bow, moves to take his leave. "At your convenience, Thor Odinson. Felicitations on this happy day," the elderly man adds, before turning to take his leave. He moves a few small steps down the gazebo and smiles in a paternal fashion at the accolades heaped on the young man. His expression is... well, it's downright grandfatherly. He rests both hands on his cane and waits patiently for the Asgardian to descend from the dais. Spotting Emma across the room, he flickers a quick wink at her before returning his attention to the party as a whole.
Polite Applause? Oh, that's what some of the other people are doing. But not Francesca. No, she's whooping and hollaring. She's even leaping into the air and bounding over heads to give Eddie a drive by kiss of congratulations on her way to mug Sif and Thor! Shouldn't do that in her borrowed dress really, but hey. Whoops, need more booze! She robs a server, thanks him for the good job and kisses someone in her way!
Now, with all finished, it's time for Fandral to wander back to the table where the mead flows freely. He still has his tankard, and its woefully empty at the moment. Refilling it, he leans against the table, watching the celebrations, his gaze flickering over to where his happy horse grazes. There is time for congratulations, time enough to swear protection.. but for now, the time is to drink!
Sebastian is legitimately happy for the announcement, he looked at Emma and smiled. Their dance long since ended, "Now... lets do our thing. I don't mean our mingle thing, I mean our aggressive thing. Let's make this party a Hellfire party."
He kissed Emma on the lips and dropped his psychic barrier, "Let's see what kind of fun we can have at this party."
Thor does descend from the 'dias' that is the gazebo steps, while moving to find a clip on his belt free to hang a drinking horn from. This he will drink from again on his wedding day, no doubt! And then, one step from the bottom, Thor suddenly remembers. 
"OH! Your gifts!" comes Thor's childishly booming voice again. He floats himself, off the ground, back to the height was was just at, and calls out again.
"Friends! My apologies! With all the joyous news... It slipped my mind. There, upon yonder table, are gifts for each of thee. We were told... rather, I've learned... it is custom on Midgard, to gift give at an announcement. And so, these I present to thee. A cape of silk and a dagger, from Bilskirnir and Asgard, to thee and Midgard." Whew! Thor really needs to write his speeches down in bullet points of something! Maybe sif can play Pepper to his Tony? An amused chuckle drifts from him at the thought as he lands lightly on the ground before Erik Lehnsherr. The smile is still in evidence as blue-grey eyes settle upon the elder mutant's face with a warm and friend regard.
And then Fran happens. Thor offs slightly, taking a backstep to keep the girl from hurting herself in her tackle-into-his-armored-chest hug.
Her attention was still genuinely distracted when she received the unexpected kiss from Shaw. Only he could manage to actually surprise a telepath. Perhaps it was one of the many reasons why he's managed to catch her attentions on and off over the years, "Of course. But only if we leave when the time is right. Wherever we are, such the party follows. Even if it's just you and I. But first things first, I'm /starving/.
Sif actually hadn't moved when Thor first began his descent. A smile is given up to him when he informs them of the giifts waiting for them. It's only after this that the Goddess slowly makes her way down those three steps, drinking horn still in hand.
A chuckle is given as Thor is all but tackled by Circus. Her eyes search for and find Fandral who is given a warm smile before she turns her attention to Eddie and his friends.
Pepper Potts has been here the whole time, honest. She's simply been either sitting quietly or helping make sure the staff catering the event are keeping up with everything. Mostly the latter. And it's because of that that she doesn't really hear what caused all of the cheering and carrying on. She does take the moment though to stop and claim an out of the way chair. She saw Tony's arrival earlier, but as he's front and center in the middle of everything, she opts to stay on the fringes where it's less hectic.
Drive by kiss? Cue Eddie flailing again and starting to fall backwards. Here's hoping Ben and Robbie have a good grip on him!
 
Erik inclines his head again towards Thor as the God of Thunder joins him, resting his hand casually on his cane. "You've an impressive assortment of allies, Master Odinson," Erik congratulates the God of Thunder in an eloquent baritone. He nods towards the young men cheering one another on. "Quite an honor to bestow upon one so young. It pleases me greatly to see young people make strides like that. And chivalrous of you to recognize him for his accomplishments. Tell me," Erik asks. "What follows from this appointment? Does he have obligation to your liege-lord now?"
It isn't a sudden thing. She doesn't make a beeline for it. but slowly and surely Kate Bishop does /slowly/ work her way towards The Young Allies.
Rain is all smiles at this. She will set the Lily at a table, for someone to take with- she even remembered Sif's favorite flower! But that's probably why Rain's not been newted by the boss just yet. She'll wave to Pepper, but she's going to congratulate Sif and Thor for now.
Circus gives Thor as good of a bone crushing hug as she can, no need to fear hurting HIM. He also gets a few kisses in rapidfire fashion, "About time! I'm so happy for you! Happy for all of you!" The waterworks are going and her cheap eyeliner isn't holding up to the task. But before she makes too much of a mess on poor old Thor, she glomps onto Sif where the whole process of hugging and kissing and crying is repeated.
The flailing Eddie gets a small laugh and a few words chanted softly by Billy. He makes sure that he is hidden mostly from any of the 'normal' people around, or at least the ones he thinks aer normal, while he casts a spell. His eyes light up a bluish glow for just a second while a golw appears around Eddie;s shoudlers to steady him and make sure that he does not go over backwards.
Iron Man gets a refill and takes a long drink of that, before realizing he's no longer needed and steps off the dais. Noticing Pepper, he heads towards his assistant and asks her, "Hey - how are you holdin' up?"
Sif's regard gains her a lifting of his drink, and a mouthed, 'Congratulations', before Fandral takes a swallow in toast. The first is done for her, and the ensuing ones.. the second, third, fourth.. all seek to empty the flagon. He watches now, the antics, though he's not amiss to watch for the ladies as well..
Ben nods to Kate while making sure Eddie doesn't just fall down on the ground. One run-in a day with the Dread Pirate is enough. Smiling Ben would ask for a speech but some of the crowd would die down. He looks to Kate, "I may want a woman's help picking out a suit." He'd ask Jubilee but Ben loves her for her merits and flaws. These make her well her...but he will admit she's not the most fassionable person on the block.**
Oh. Oh no. No no. No tears! If someone is clinging to Sif and crying then... Yep... The Goddess' own tears start to fall as she hugs Circus back just as tightly. "Thank you," is managed out through soft sobs. Yes yes. The Goddess is crying. More so, she's crying in front of people. She was fine until someone else started crying!
"A man is measured by the strength of those he calls Friend and Ally," Thor replies to Erik the moment he's able to. It has to wait for Fran to finish her tearful kisses and leaves him to clomp Sif. Thor takes a step away from the two girls in the hopes that the distance will help him resteady himself from her onslaught. 
"The honor bestowed was an honor earned. I can do no less. From this appointment, he is given the full support of my arm, my heart, and my house. And though by technicality's sake, he does have obligation to the Allfather through me, it is most unlikely that my father will ever call upon him. But I have no doubt of my son's abilities, should Asgard have need of him. Sif and I have been seeing to his combat skills. They are impressive, given how short a time he has been working on them. Truly, the speed at which you mortals learn things is astounding!" And somehow, that phrase 'you mortals' isn't derogatory.
Pepper Potts looks up at Tony and smiles a bit tiredly, staying seated for the moment. "I'm okay. What was all that noise about just now? I was checking with the caterers and I didn't hear." Surprise (not), when Pepper's not her usual self she works even MORE than she normally does.
Iron Man shrugs, "oh you know, the adoption announcement and it seems Thor and Sif are gonna get hitched."
Probably because it's true, for a good chunk of the guests here. Rain herself has a noted weakness to death. She smiles and wanders up closer to Thor and Sif now, as best as she can. She offers a little wave. "I'm very happy for you guys," She's shy, but she's trying/
 
"Duty flows both uphill and down," Erik agrees, making a relaxed gesture. He glances from Thor to the rest of the party. He almost speaks again, but at Rain's approach, Erik tilts his ice-blue eyes to the girl with an expression of displeased reprimand at the interruption. Less than a moment later, the expression vanishes, replaced by one of benevolent approval. "Greetings, young lady. Erik Lehnsherr, at your service," he says, with a small but courtly bow in her direction. Silver hair spills across his shoulders, making him look all the older even next to the ageless God of Thunder.
"I'm soooo happy!" yes, Circus is crying like no tomorrow, but she is definitely smiling. She seems truly to be shedding tears of joy. "I am so glad you aren't going to wait forever for the wedding! And it is wonderful that you are adopting Eddie. He's such a good kid." Like she's so much older in Asgardian terms. "If I knew you were going to make this announcement, I'd never have forgotten my shoes. I promise."
"Rain! It is good to see thee again," Thor says to the sorceror's apprentice as she approaches. The Thunderer steps over to collect the girl into a hug, and murmur in her ear:
"Truly, it is good to see thee. Please, bear with thee my greetings to my brother in the fashion is it given. He is... truly... he is missed," Thor says so very softly, the pitter patter of tiny raindrops on soft fresh earth. Hug and greetings given, Thor steps back and smiles to Erik, eyes a touch more reserved than they had been.
"Agreed. I am pleasantly honor bound to provide for and protect the boy. And I shall make good upon my bonds, with Mjolnir's willing help," Thor adds.
Rain smiles briefly. She will return the hug, and nods. She murmurs back, "I promise I will." Likely, Rain was hesitant to cast divination on the fellow or bother him while he was working. She is mortal, and well aware of it. She pauses at Erik, eyes widening at the realization. "OH! Goodness. I am very sorry, sir," She lowers her head and moves back.
Shoes? What? Sif pulls back and looks at Circus oddly for a moment before looking down and laughing. When she looks up, she hugs Circus again for a moment then pulls away and wipes the tears from her cheeks. A soft sniffle is given before she speaks. "It matters not whether you have shoes on, dear friend."
She then turns to Rain and the tears start again as she reaches out to embrace the young witch. "Rain! How wonderful to see you again after so long." And like the God before her, the Goddess drops her voice to a whisper. "Please let Loki know he is loved and greatly missed. I wish he could have been with us this day." She pulls back and smiles at the girl. "Thank you for coming. It means much to us."
A moment or so later, she's joining Thor at his side. A hand instinctively reaches for his and her eyes settle on the group of boys and Kate once more. A warm smile curves her lips. She's so happy for him. She then looks over at Tony and Pepper and smiles for them as well.
The song going on the background soon has Sif humming along. At least she's managing to stand still this time. No bouncing. Yay!
 
Erik holds a hand up, shaking his head towards Rain. "Not at all. It is hardly fair for me to monopolize our host's time. I merely wished to express my gratitude for his invitation. I do not wish to inconvenience Master Odinson," he adds, inclining his head towards Thor. As Sif joins the group, Erik bows formally to the woman. "Lady Sif. Allow me to offer you my congratulations on this merry day." He smiles warmly at the woman and straightens, his left hand supporting some of his weight on a gold-shod cane. "Master Odinson, forgive me- Mjolnir?" Erik asks the god, cautiously. "That's a term I am not familair with."
Rain smiles a bit at the shoes talk. There's a pause as she's embraced and whispered to. Carefully, she returns the hug. "The pleasure is all mine," She murmurs to Sif. At the whisper, she replies with her voice just as much, "I will tell him." It's a promise! "I am glad and honored to have been invited," She nods. "It means a lot to me, too." And maybe Harvey, but he's an imp. Silly imp. She looks touched by the tears, concerned. She smiles faintly at Erik. "Well. It was rude of me to butt in. I apologize." She was in the wrong to a point. "Be well, sir." And she'll settle quiet.
"Thou knowst not of the relic, Mjolnir?" asks Thor, honestly surprised by the fact. So many mortals he's met, have at least heard of it, and various interesting factoids of it that came from Norse winters spent drinking and telling stories. But even as he asks this, Thor reaches to the hammer hanging from his right hip, and holds it out for viewing but not truly for the taking. 
"This, is the relic known as Mjolnir, the Crusher. Forged in the heart of a dying star and only able to be weilded by the worthy, it is the mightiest of the weapons found in the vaults of the Waepons Hall on Asgard," Thor explains as best he can. Truly, he's never had to explain his hammer before.
Pepper Potts stares at Tony for a long moment, then says slowly to make sure she doesn't mispronounce anything, "Adoption announcement?" She doesn't comment on the 'hitched' part, because if she hadn't thought before the two of them were betrothed, she knew they were at least definitely very close.
 
The look Erik gives the hammer is very speculative, and on some level it seems clear that the man is learning far more about the weapon than one would develop from a simple inspection. "Very interesting, Master Odinson. I had no idea something of such power existed. Only a truly formidable warrior must be able to wield it," Erik says, nodding as if confirming something he already knows.
Pepper Potts considers for a second, her eyes flicking toward Eddie for a moment, then she shrugs at Tony. "Kind of." She must have missed something MORE somewhere. And that is frustrating.
Iron Man nods, giving a bit of a shrug and taking a drink from his tankard..flagon..vessel..whatever. "I'll fill you in more when we get back to the Tower. Things been quiet here today?"
The bow from Erik gets a dipped bow from the Goddess in return. "We are most pleased you could join us." To his congratulations, she smiles brightly. "Thank you very much."
She falls silent as Thor explains, as best as any one can, Mjolnir to the man. She turns her attention back to Rain and smiles warmly. "Have you been enjoying yourself?"
Her eyes slide towards Tony and Pepper for a moment, head tilting off to one side as if she's trying to determine if all is well with them.
When Erik speaks, her attention turns to him and she smiles. "It would depend, more, on whether Mjolnir finds whoever it is worthy of weilding her power." Not an easy task to accomplish.
Pepper Potts nods to Tony. "Well, other than the usual drama, yes." Caterers always have drama associated with serving a party of any appreciable size, and this one is up there on the scale. She's just inwardly very glad she opted to tell the party planner that usually goes hand in hand with such events to take a hike -- the woman was controlling and demanding and bossy in the BAD way.
"Nah. Only the Worthy," replies Thor, his hand moving to return the hammer to it's clip hanger on his belt. Because that phrase explains everything, doesn't it? He spots Pepper and smiles. 
"I must give thanks to another, Erik Lehnsherr Executive Director of the Mutant Action Center," Thor says simply, not wanting to leave the discussion and be rude, but not sure abou thow to invite him to introduce him to TOny and Pepper. Especially when the Thunderer wanted very much to be a young man announcing his wedding and adopted son as opposed to a visiting dignitary of a sovereign realm that would reek serious havok here if it wanted.
Iron Man looks around and nods, "No signs of..him, right? Because I came dressed to dance, if he wants to dance."
Rain is quietly doing Rain things. Mostly, perhaps, guaging the conversations and keeping Harvey from getting too drunk. She's pretty sure that's bad for imps.
Pepper Potts shakes her head no at Tony. "No. Not even a feeling of someone watching and disapproving." And she /does/ know that feeling, having been subjected to it by a mean-spirited supervisor back before she became Tony's personal assistant.
 
"Of course. Excuse me, and thank you for your time. Congratulations again, Master Odinson," Erik congratulates Thor. He bows politely to Sif, smiles warmly at Rain, and takes a few measured paces away to disengage himself from the conversation, cane tapping against the ground. He drifts past Tony and nods politely to the man as Thor turns to address Stark and Co. He considers his options for a few moments, then seems to come to some kind of decision and moves towards the exit, leaving the party to the celebrator and his close friends.
Iron Man nods. "Good. I've got JARVIS running the last permutations. Right now, I'm 88 percent sure who I need to have a conversation with. By tomorrow morning, that should be at 95 percent, and I'll feel confident I'm speaking to the right person."
With Lehnsherr going, Thor can't help but smile lightly and shakes his head at just how... Svartalftar advisor the mortal seemed. Had the skin been a completely different hue, Thor would not have been phased by it. Well, it was nice to meet him. Turning, Thor heads to the table with Tony and Pepper, and not realizing what they are talking about, he moves to hug them both. One on each arm.
"My friends..." Thor says softly, warmly, smelling a bit of mead.
As Erik takes his leave, Sif watches him go. There's a small chuckle and a shake of her head given before she makes her way across the garden towards Pepper, Tony and Thor. Her own eyes are a brighter blue than normal and she's pratcially beaming with joy. "Are you two enjoying yourselves?" And where did Rain get off to?
Pepper Potts nods to Tony, then stands as Thor approaches so he doesn't have to loom over her to give her a hug. "Hello, Thor." She smiles a hello to Sif as well as she arrives, letting that be her answer to the Sword Maiden's question. If she was curious about who JARVIS's calculations are gradually pointing toward, she seems unwilling to ask in the presence of the Aesir couple.
Rain is drifting, as she is ever wont to do. But she's not far. Harvey is admiring some flowers and the refreshments. "Huh? Oh. Yeah, I like those two..." She murmurs. But she watches Erik and waves at the smile. Seems like a nice guy. Familiar somehow. She shakes off the odd feeling. There's Pepper and Tony, too. She'll drift over that way. "No, we can't pick those..." She mumbles to Harvey.
Iron Man looks over and smiles as Thor approaches, quickly ceasing any of their previous conversation. "Big guy." he says warmly, patting the Asgardian on his shoulder. He nods to Sif as she approaches and asks them about their time so far, "It's exactly what was needed." When Rain comes near she gets a smile and nod from Tony as well.
Thor's hug is gentle, careful of the delicate Pepper, but it is warm and heartfelt. He releases Pepper slowly so she doesn't loose balance, and turns to Tony as the mortal's hand is on his shoulder. The smile doesn't diminish.
"This warms my heart. Have either of thee yet eaten?" Thos asks ever concerned for his guests.
Sif smiles as she watches Thor interact with Tony and Pepper, before turning that same smile on the two in quesetion. "Wonderful. You have but to let me know if you need anything." And then she's looking over at her Rain and grinning.
Pepper Potts has had plenty of chances to sneak bites of all of the foods being served, but as she was working with the caterers, that would be bad form in the worst way possible. Thus, at the question of whether she's eaten, she can only honestly answer no with a shake of her head. "I hadn't really thought about it." And she braces herself for the reactions. Her guesses: mother henning from Thor, scolding from Tony, disapproval from Sif...
Iron Man looks understandingly at Pepper, "You should have a little something." - glossing over the question entirely. Which for Tony, even by his standards, is telling.
"Then you should eat!" declares the Thunderer at Pepper's reply, and in full mother Thor-hen fashion, waves to a caterer to summon plates for the table. No, Thor doesn't care what meat is brought. Bring three servings of everything. It will get eaten. And be quick! 
Alright, so he doesn't say any of that aloud. He just motions and points at everyone near him and the table. If there is anything in the mortal undertones, Thor seems not to be aware of it. He moves to sit at Pepper's side opposite Tony, for symmetry's sake, really.
Sif quirks a brow at Tony and Pepper but says nothing to either about their eating habits beyond that. The gathering causes her to smile before she turns and starts away from the group. There's a drink around here somewhere with her name on it.
Rain smiles back to Sif, though Harvey's probably still trying to con more mead out of anyone who can speak impish. Rain notices Iron Man's smile in greeting, too! But she's forever awkward. Still, there's all sorts of exotic goodies to be had. She seems amused. "This is incredible." Though, really, Rain's one to talk. She watches Sif and the others quietly a moment. "I think we should go over there." That's to Harvey, who is probably claiming dominion over all things cracker.
Pepper Potts raises an eyebrow at Tony's reply, trying to silently convey that she's NOT about to shatter like a cracked porcelain saucer and his acting like she is is only going to draw attention, but then Thor's full-volume mother-hen mode kicks in. And if she takes Sif's expression as disapproval, she called two out of three. "I suppose I could eat a little..." Honestly, she's never been that big a fan of barbecue type stuff, but the caterers of course pulled out all the stops and brought a rotisserie machine of all things. The smells taunted her for a good while. "Oh, I remembered to bring these with me..." She reaches into her bag and carefully pulls out two drawstring pouches, opening one to reveal the chalices that were a gift from Thor a while back.
"Then drinks too!" Thor demands of the waitstaff, ever much the Prince of Asgard as he moves to sit. It's as if it took him 2.2 seconds to remember his arrogance and pride. He settles himself into the seat more fully as the waitstaff begin brining out roast beast and lobster bisque and the steak and steamed rice and fresh fruit and grilled asparagus and peppers and mango, and shrimp scampi, and... my goodness Sif ordered a lot of food, didn't she? And we haven't even started on the desserts!
Iron Man clears his throat and then finishes his drink in a couple of easy swallows and takes a seat at the table. Even with the armor, he's able to sit down and find his comfort with ease. When Pepper brings out the chalices, he smiles. "Oh yeah, I have so rare a chance to use these. This would be a good time." he glances at Thor being..well, Thor, and smiles a bit more genuinely.
Pepper Potts reclaims her own chair and hands one of the chalices to Tony, then unwraps the other and offers it to Thor. "I would have brought one of the tankards as well, but... well, it weighed as much as the entire rest of my bag."
"If you wish, I can send someone..." Thor is starting to offer, already half rising to his feet just as the waiters are bringing out platters.
Pepper Potts quickly reaches out a hand to keep Thor from disappearing again. "No, it's okay. Really. We'll make do." She tucks the pouches the chalices came in back into her bag and at the same time pulls her phone to mute it so it's not making noises while they eat.
In the next second, Sif appears at the side of the table. Three empty tankards are sat down on the table as well as two cloaks and two daggers. The Goddess smiles warmly at Tony and Pepper then turns to wonder away once more.
Iron Man shakes his head, "No, really, Thor. It's fine." - and there it is. Somehow, Tony manages some kind of nickname for the Asgardian Prince every time he talks to him. Even if he has to recycle one or two of them. It's just what he's always done. Until now. Tony takes one of the tankards, and smiles up at Sif. "Thank you." he says gently, taking a healthy pull.
Rain has drifted back, though, she's careful not to interrupt. For now, it seems, she's winding down, herself.
WIth Pepper AND Tony waylaying him, Thor retakes his seat and moves to load a plate - for Pepper! - from the platters in the center of the table. 
"As thou says. I know not, yet, what guests can be summoned for the full ceremony, but as this is all but a political alliance I hazard to guess that the actual proceedings will be dull. The festivities afterwards, however," Thor says, noting Tony's use of his name and not a pleasant title made up for the moment with a smile.
Four steps. That's all Sif had taken before her head snaps around towards the table. She stares for a second before shaking her head and tuning to continue her walk back towards the drink table.
Pepper Potts looks up at Sif in open surprise when the Sword Maiden appears with tankards and other fun stuff the disappears again almost as if using her teleportation ability. And then Tony goes and says something that sets her to staring at HIM for a moment. Maybe she /should/ eat something. "Thank you, she calls after Sif, and then her eyes fall on Rain and she smiles, a silent invitation to join them and dear god please help eat all of this food.
Pepper Potts looks at the laden plate of food that Thor served up for her with a hint of dismay. She's always been rather a light eater, and the portions currently in front of her are about three meals' worth for her. She looks at Tony as silently pleading for help. At least she managed to sneakily ask one of the serving staff to fill the chalice in her hands with water.
Iron Man looks down at his plate which is laden with twice as much as Pepper's. He gulps uncomfortably and picks at his plate quietly. This..is gonna take a while.
Pepper Potts sees that Tony is just as doomed as she is food-wise, and resigns herself to not stressing over leaving her plate unfinished. She starts by taking a tenative bite of the asparagus... wow. Not bad. "So, um, what was the call out about today?" She means the Avengers business that prompted Tony to arrive in armor instead of in D&G.
Iron Man has yet to dig in, he's still trying to figure out what to try first, but looks up - "Oh, the US Embassy in Kerplakistan got attacked by rebels with some heavy tech weapons. Not my stuff - not Hammer's, either. SHIELD is gonna analyze it for me."
Pepper Potts wows softly. "Any guesses as to whose tech it might be? Maybe those ... AIM people?"
Iron Man shrugs, "Possibly. Some element that's been keeping a low profile. I'm not impressed, otherwise I'd been in trackdown mode. But it's relatively heavy tech to arm a poor rebellion with."
Pepper Potts nods a bit to Tony. "Any hope that it was an isolated incident?"
Iron Man shrugs, "I don't know. We'll find out in the next few days. If it happens again, we'll know for sure."
Pepper Potts nods again. "I guess we will." She picks at the food on her plate idly, then looks over at the piles of fabric with daggers on top of them. "What are these?" She reaches one hand over to get a feel of the fabric.
Iron Man chuckles softly, "Gifts. Thor got it in his head that when he makes an announcement or something along those lines, those gathered are to be given gifts."
Pepper Potts raises her eyebrows. "I wonder where he got THAT idea. These are /really/ nice, though. It feels like silk." Yes, now thoughts completely unrelated to Avengers or even typical Stark business stuff is percolating through her brain.
Pepper Potts stops admiring the fabric and looks at Tony again. She looks at him for a moment, then asks hopefully kindly enough, "Are you going to wear that suit all evening?" And of course, as soon as the words leave her mouth she has this irrational worry that Tony was in too much of a hurry to deal with that whatever it was to bother donning even moderately presentable attire.
Iron Man shrugs, "Not much of a choice, I took the Seven out - it's not exactly briefcase armor. I don't mind though, I mean, I do design it to be as comfortable as I can. I can do pretty much anything in this."
Pepper Potts purses her lips for a second, then can't keep the smile at bay. "Please don't elaborate on that." Yes, she's actually that close to laughing.
Iron Man takes a drink from his tankard, "Hadn't planned to." he smirks though.
Pepper Potts has to laugh softly at that. "Thank you for sparing me. This time."
Iron Man shrugs, "This means you're fair game to hear about the Christmas party this year."
Pepper Potts feigns being horrified, possibly a bit convincingly. "Oh god. Please spare me the Christmas party.
Iron Man just starts laughing. "I'll take it under consideration, Miss Potts."
Pepper Potts starts laughing again, the tenseness that's been in her shoulders for the past couple of days finally mostly easing away. "I truly appreciate that, Mr. Stark."
Iron Man raises his tankard, "Consider it part of my..magnanimous..nature."
Pepper Potts can't resist snorting a bit dirisively (and very NOT politely) at that. "If you say so."
Iron Man narrows his eyes at his assistant, having too good of a time to actually be offended, and says "I /could've/ said gratuitous. Both are equally true."
Pepper Potts laughs again. "You have a point there." She drinks the last of the water in her chalice and looks at it with a small frown, as if offended that it ran out of beverage.
Part Two: Friday, April 26th 9/8 C
Playlist: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hW93CV6m-JU&list=PL4npksG33eCN4vmzxNSU_7JEhXn7zRZ9N&feature=mh_lolz
DJ Takes requests. @mail Thor with song title/artist And/or YouTube link.
Gift Visuals:
http://www.thecarvingpath.net/forum/uploads/monthly_02_2010/post-1686-1265479180.jpg"
Cloaks: "The silk cloaks are assorted colors. Please feel free to pose/say you received your favorite color if you are so inclided. :)"
Category:Log