BEGIN PARTY

BEGIN PARTY

BEGIN PARTY

:: looking around the forested scene, knowing that la capitana has something planned, but this is a nice spot to wait in the meantime ::

:: walks into the holodeck, now seeing why the announcement mentioned wearing boots ::

:: arrived with Navarro, looking around as he does and following by his side as they search for the party ::

:: on Zorro's other arm, wearing something slinky and wishing she'd pregamed ::

:: walks into the holodeck, hands deep in her pockets, not expecting the ambient temperature to be so warm compared to what it appears to be ::

ACTION> A jingling is heard in the distance...

:: raises eyebrows and follows the direction of the jingling sound ::

:: perks and looks over at the sound, pointing to indicate the direction she thought it came from to Navarro and Suzuki ::

:: looks toward the sky once he hears the jingling ::

Emily/Jester: It's coming from above.

:: peers in the direction Emily indicates, then looks up ::

:: follows the others, wondering what level of festiveness goes on around here—having just missed the event last year ::

ACTION> From the night sky, a red glowing point grows brighter...

:: looks upwards into the sky, squinting to find where it is coming from, slowly shuffling forward ::

:: squints up at the sky, smirking at what she senses there ::

:: points at the red dot in the sky :: There!

Oh, is she doing a Дед Мороз thing?

What do they call him in the Western Earth countries again?

:: turns around, overhearing Zoe :: CEO: The what? You mean Weihnachtsmann?

Rike: If Weihnachtsmann is the same as Дед Мороз, then yes.

ACTION> Kuari, her nose glowing a bright red, can be seen leading a team of eight reindeer pulling a large red sleigh that's about to land in the clearing!

:: walks into the holodeck, immediately noticing the red glow above and grinning. Inspiration from Rudolph! ::

:: cannot help but laugh ::

:: gives a big nod :: CEO: Ja! Appears so!

:: breaks out into laughter ::

:: is at the front of the reindeer train, her green color in contrast to the brown of the reindeer behind her. She's longer but not taller than them, wearing the reindeer tack and sporting her own antlers, and the glow seen from far off can now be seen as coming from a bright red ball at the tip of her snout! ::

:: grins as she watches the approach, laughing a bit as well ::

:: struggles to suppress a smirk ::

:: all grins as he watches the sleigh approach ::

:: claps loudly for Kuari, giggling slightly ::

:: wearing a classic Santa hat with her hair down and spilling out from under it onto the white fur trim of a dashing red cloak, she's at the reins of the sleigh as it comes to a snowy landing:: Ho! Ho! Ho! All aboard for the Atlantis holiday party! Squeeze in!

:: claps as Kate lands, then looks at the others before beginning to approach the sleigh ::

:: waits for everyone to board before taking a seat on the very edge, holding herself strictly ::

:: nods eagerly and piles into the sleigh with everyone ::

:: gallops to a snow-crunching stop, her head and bright nose held high, having actually used her wings because she can, looking proud of herself ::

:: rushes forward, hopping into the sleigh, gripping onto one of the sides of it ::

:: has to actually suppress a giggle as she hurries into the sleigh ::

:: squeezes in close with Emily and Jester and puts an arm around each of them ::

:: settles in and pats the sleigh seat, leaning into Doc's side ::

:: wonders about the aerial maneuverability of a sleigh ::

:: mimics the reindeer sounds, looking back at those piled in the sleigh, feeling on top of the world ::

:: beams at Kuari as everyone climbs aboard ::

:: beams back a white zipper smile ::

:: notices the throuple vibes going with Emily, Zorro, and the pilot she still hasn't officially met :: :: thinks :: Huh.

:: once everyone is aboard, she takes the reins once more and calls out in her captain's voice :: Now Flasher, now Lancer, now Fencer, and Licksem, on Vomit, on Stupid, on Connor, and Hitsem! Kuari, away!

ACTION> The sleigh takes flight once more, over the snowy treetops and into the aurora-painted sky!

:: blinks :: Kate: Now, I admit I am not the best at this language but even I can tell that those names aren't right!

:: breaks into loud cackles at the Captain's naming of the reindeer, clenching her hold tighter ::

Rike: They are not? :: shrugs :: Hm.

Rike/Kate: Yeah, even I know that song.

:: rears and bellows out a loud reindeer call, then runs and flaps with vigor, lifting the train and sleigh into the sky ::

:: laughs out loud, then covers her mouth ::

:: laughs mirthfully ::

:: smirks at Rike, a glint in her eye ::

Kate/Rike/D'bryn: Ethan would've been laughing his ass off... me, I'm more of a traditionalist when it comes to reindeer names.

:: doesn't really know the names of the reindeer or understand why everyone is laughing but tries to play it cool ::

ACTION> Ahead, a manor and attached workshop can be seen growing larger as we descend to land!

Oooh!

:: brings the sleigh to a landing, being careful to spray the snow away from the door ::

:: lands perfectly, the sled sliding gracefully and unjarring across the snow ::

:: the huge double doors swing open as the sleigh lands and Lexy stands in the open doorway at the top of the steps, wearing a red velvet dress with straps over the shoulders and white furry trim around the bodice and off the shoulders as well as the flouncy bottom hem that hits at mid-thigh. A black leather belt with a gold buckle sits at the waist. Her chocolate tresses are speckled with glitter and pulled back away from her face, but left long down her back. Her lips are tinted to match her dress, and her cheeks are slightly flushed with the pleasure of her friends arriving. Smiling, she proffers her customary tray. :: All: Welcome! Wright Family Traditional Holiday Rumballs, anyone?

:: braces herself, then relaxes at a surprisingly smooth landing. She looks over at where Wright appeared and grins, waiting for the others to get up so she can get out of the sleigh ::

:: eyebrows perk at 'rumballs' :: Wright: Boozy sweets? :: raises hand ::

:: claps for Kuari as she dismounts from the sleigh :: Ho ho ho! Mrs. Santa's hospitality is unmatched!

Self: Rumballs. Those sound perfect right about now.

:: offers the tray to everyone as they come to the door ::

:: makes her way over as soon as she's up and plucks a rumball off the tray :: Mrs. Santa: Thanks!

:: grabs a rumball ::

:: goes along with everyone and grabs a rumball ::

:: takes two, mouthing her thanks to Wright ::

Lexy: Thanks!

:: grins, holding up a hand to pass on the rumballs :: Mrs. Santa: I'll pass, but thank you.

Lexy: Ah! Rumballs! Of course! :: pauses :: Lexy: What are those?

:: hefts a big red sack from the sleigh over her shoulder and looks to Kuari who is still a reindeer ::

:: takes a bite :: :: mouth full :: Oh y ob.

Rike: They're the traditional Famous Wright Family Rumballs! :: whispers :: They're little boozy cakey things.

Comes in, minus the tack, but still sports her red nose, the glow not as bright now for show ::

:: takes little bites to really savor her rumball, beginning to wander to check out this manor ::

:: carries the sack inside with a pause to give Mrs. Santa a kiss and to take a rumball! ::

:: hurries to join her friend, falling into pace with Acacia :: Emily: Hey

:: grins as Ryleigh appears, continuing to look around :: Ryleigh: Hey! How are you?

:: shoves the other half of the rumball into her mouth, gazes around the manor :: Vih fayf iv ife.

:: snaps her head around at hearing D'bryn's muffled voice :: D'bryn: Goddamnit! Speak English, lady! Not... mumble, or whatever you just said! :: before turning back to Acacia:: Emily: I'm good... tired. Too many requests for aid in whatever the Marine Academy wants.

:: swallows rumball :: I said, 'This place is nice.'

:: blinks, looking at Grey a bit dubiously. She taps her translator to turn it off, looks at Ryleigh, and says :: Ryleigh: D'akshim mori tanis.

ACTION> Mrs. Santa gestures everyone inside past the roaring fireplace and into the bar and lounge, in the center of which is a soaring ice sculpture of Atlantis. Other ice sculptures decorate the adjacent dance floor and the entryway to the glass-enclosed conservatory that holds a small ice rink. Across the way is the entrance to the workshop, where anyone can request any manner of toy. Swags of greenery and mistletoe hang from the ceiling.

:: offers a smile in greeting to Ryleigh ::

:: pops the rumball into her mouth and places the sack by the door as she chews ::

:: raises an eyebrow at Acacia :: Emily: English. I don't speak off-Earth languages for a damn good reason.

:: upon a table inside are a tray of chocolate dipped brownies! except they appear to be in a unique shape... of... logs? they have festive red and green sprinkles on them, as though it was an attempt to "save" the sweets from their rather... "unique" appearance. in front of them is a note: ~Happy Holidays Atlantis! Sorry about the shape. -Linxi ::

:: raises a brow at the explanation, then shrugs :: Ryleigh: I said, 'that was rude'. You should get some rest if you're so tired.

:: furrows his brow at Ryleigh ::

Lexy: Ah! Good! :: takes one of the rumballs and starts eating it as she follows the rest into the place ::

:: snorts, returning the grin at Navarro before turning attention back to Acacia :: Emily: Perks of CTO. Lots of damn paperwork on top of making sure security and tactical stay in shape. I can rest when I'm dead.

:: she then sheds the fancy cloak to reveal that underneath, she's wearing an off-the-shoulder red velvet crop-top trimmed on the bodice and cuffs with white fur, tight black pants topped by a black leather belt with a golden square buckle, and shiny black leather boots with matching gold buckles ::

:: follows everyone inside and places the tray on the bar, then claps her hands ::

:: hangs the cloak up, but keeps the Santa hat! ::

:: licks up a few rumballs and makes her way into the lounge, enjoying the ambiance, gazing for a while at the ice sculpture of Atlantis ::

ACTION> A group of festively-dressed carolers emerges from an adjacent room and begins to sing, providing lovely harmonies at just the right volume ::

:: smiles at Grey, pats a friendly hand on her shoulder :: Grey: Иди на хуй. :: smiles even wider, goes back to the rumball tray ::

:: steps into the lounge and joins in the caroling ::

:: acquires another rumball, smirking slightly at D'bryn :: Ryleigh: You know, as a marine, you should know it's not wise to let people know what annoys you.

:: looks around, marveling at the decoration, then at the carolers before continuing with the rumball ::

:: rolls her eyes at D'bryn's words, snorting lightly. :: Emily: Oh, trust me, around enemies, I don't. It's with friends that I feel safe enough ::

:: catches Santa Kate caroling under the mistletoe and grabs her for a surprise kiss, laughing ::

:: sings with the carolers at a low volume, more like humming along, watching those participating on the ice rink ::

:: is kissed! ::

:: is kind of stuck on this :: Ryleigh: I mean I can understand no off-Earth languages, I guess, but you really only speak English?

:: quickly loses interest in the discussion with Ryleigh, being multilingual ::

:: noms another rumball, leans on the bar, chewing ::

:: smiles playfully at her wife once the kiss ends :: Why, Mrs. Santa!

ACTION> Elves appear, holding aloft trays of drinks and wandering around conveniently.

:: giggles ::

:: looks back to Ryleigh, finished with her current rumball :: Ryleigh: Es tut gut, mehrere Sprachen zu beherrschen. It does well to know more than one language!

:: wraps her arm around Lexy's waist and keeps it there as they mingle ::

:: takes a drink from an elf, watching him go and wondering what size shoe he wears ::

:: takes a mulled wine from a tray, and another rumball! ::

:: nods :: Emily: Yeah. I can speak a quite few of Earth-languages, but off-Earth... that's a no-go. Full human capabilities, so any off-earth is either physically impossible, or too much work for a full-time Marine captain.

:: also snatches a drink, downing it instantly, then finds her Rucara-made skates in the fitting area and straps them on ::

:: eyes the drinks the elves are carrying ::

Elf: Whatcha got there?

:: tsks :: Ryleigh: You have yet to experience the HONOR and GLORY of speaking the language of the Klingon empire?

Elf> D'bryn: I have mulled wine and hot toddies!

:: gives a thoughtful 'hm' and a slow nod, then chuckles to herself :: Ryleigh: Right.

Elf: I'll grab one of the toddies, thank you.

Elf: They got any hard egg nog in this joint?

:: snorts at Rike's comment ::

:: smirks and says something to Emily in Betazese ::

Elf> :: grins at D'bryn :: Oh yeah! My cousin over there has some on his tray, or you can get it at the bar.

:: replies in the tribal language reflexively, taking a bite of her rumball ::

:: says something in Japanese and then translates it back to the original Klingon ::

:: blinks at Rike :: Rike: Uh... I can speak German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch, on top of English.

:: answers Jester in a bit of Japanese ::

:: looks over to Suzuki, nodding and responding in Klingon with a grin on her face ::

:: gives him an impressed nod :: Zorro: You honor me.

:: has picked up a lot just from listening to these two ::

:: feels out her skates, mostly fitted in the way of gripping the platforms on either side of the metal rails on all four claws, then tromps awkwardly to the rink and pushes out onto the simulated ice, having no idea what she's doing but makes do ::

:: laughs and gives Jester a Klingon salute ::

:: also says something in Japanese, though a bit clumsily as it's one she's less practiced in ::

:: cheers with the toddy :: Elf: Thank you kindly. Весёлых праздников.

:: cannot help but laugh heartily at what Rike said ::

:: after finishing the rumball and washing it down with a drink of wine, she grins at Lexy :: Would you care to go for a skate?

:: takes a second to get the Klingon joke, then smiles ::

:: gives Emily a rare smile :: Emily: You honor me as well.

Kate: Yes! I'm not very good, though.

:: is struck by Jester's smile, knowing how rare it is. She bows her head as thanks for the thanks ::

:: blinks, sipping at the non-alcoholic egg-nog in her hand, remaining silent and watching the interactions ::

:: hears people speaking Japanese, remembers her Tokyo trip that one summer :: :: looks down at the hot toddy :: Self: I'm gonna need a lot of these tonight.

:: truly respects Emily, but also knows she can't hide her feelings from her, so why try? ::

Suzuki/Emily: maquvchuqmoH!

:: inclines her head respectfully to Rike's sentiment ::

:: also nods in agreement ::

:: takes a second, but joins in the nodding to Rike ::

:: shrugs at Lexy :: Being from a tropical beach, I only learned when I got to Earth, but I can do it. We should be fine together!

:: blinks in confusion at the various languages being thrown around her ::

:: stumbles multiple times, a wing pushing off the ice to right herself, feeling out the right amount of force to impress on each skate before finding a groove ::

:: switches back easily :: Ryleigh: You know, knowing Klingon could save your life one day.

:: giggles and grabs Kate's hands, putting on ice skates through holodeck magic and wobbling out onto the ice under the aurora-curtained sky ::

Ryleigh: Agreed with Emily here. I was once stuck on a Klingon colony planet for longer than I cared for at the time. Knowing basic Klingon got me out of a particularly sticky situation. :: gives her a wise, serious look ::

:: sips at her drink slowly :: Emily: I can read it, I just can't speak it. Same with other off-Earth languages. I can read it, I just can't speak it.

:: keeps one of Lexy's hands, she pushes off to skate ::

Ryleigh: If I may suggest taking a few basic language courses of other languages, that will be immensely helpful in the future.

:: wishes she had spent more of her lifetimes learning new languages, but is grateful she spent a couple of them doing that ::

:: shrugs :: Ryleigh: Vocal chords don't vary as much as you might think. It's one thing to not be confident, but if you can read a language you're half way to speaking it anyway.

:: looks to Emily, nodding in agreement ::

:: starts to glide along, then stumbles and has to cling to Kate's arm for balance, laughing ::

:: pauses, mentally considering the addition to her schedule from extra language courses :: Rike: Dep...Depends on my availability of scheduling. :: switches to Acacia :: Emily: Really?

:: doesn't laugh, but just grins and catches Lexy's arm to help her stay upright ::

Ryleigh: Yeah, it sounds like you're just holding yourself back with some of this 'I can't' business. If you're reading Klingon but just not confident enough to speak it, you're doing better than you think.

:: nods in agreement :

Ryleigh: Try Klingon audiobooks or something.

:: leads them in the direction of Kuari ::

Ryleigh: If you want, I could tutor you in some basic conversational Klingon! I'm more than happy to do so!

:: wobbles but stays upright ::

:: blinks with a raised eyebrow :: Emily: That's a thing?

:: finishes the hot toddy, immediately starts looking around for the elf's cousin with the egg nog ::

Ryleigh: Oh yeah, for sure. Really helped me get the cadence of the way the language is spoken.

Egg Nog Elf> :: can tell when he's wanted and wanders toward D'bryn ::

:: lets go for just long enough to do a basic twirl as they approach Kuari ::

:: takes another glass of wine and reclines comfortably, looking up appreciatively at the Atlantis sculpture ::

Kate: Ooo!

:: seems to have figured out the amount of force needed with all limbs, and has to keep her tail fairly level behind her for balance. She makes a couple of laps around the rink, smiling at her accomplishment ::

Jester: The nacelles must have been hard, at least if this were done for real.

Elf: You guys are magic. :: takes the egg nog :: Thankee sai.

:: nods at him :: Zorro: I was thinking the same.

:: encouraged, she twirls again, a little faster this time ::

:: snaps her attention to Rike's offer, glancing down to her PADD and checking her schedule quickly, ignoring it was at a holiday party :: Rike: So... I'm pretty much full-scheduled for the next two months, but I can make time in about eight-ten weeks for a few Klingon lessons, if that can work?

:: also looks up at the sculpture when she hears it being discussed, marveling at the nacelles ::

:: grabs a few mulled wines from an elf and passes them out to Jester and Emily ::

:: is suitably impressed :: Kate: Wow!

Ryleigh: Of course! :: pulls out paper and pen, jotting down a note, and putting it back into a pocket ::

Self: Oh, the time. :: claps her hands again ::

:: takes the wine with an appreciative nod, taking a sip ::

Ryleigh: There you go. Good for you!

:: skates back to Lexy's side :: That is about as fancy as I can get.

ACTION> The carolers finish their tune and withdraw, and a jazz band takes the stage and begins to play.

:: clocks her schedule, sliding her PADD into a small pocket on her formal pants and sipping at her drink once again with a shy smile at Acacia :: Emily: Why thank you.

:: slows to a stop, distracted by the new music and listens, balancing easily on her skates ::

:: does a bit of dancing to the jazz while she skates past Kuari ::

:: notices she has yet to have a drink in hand, and glances around for an elf ::

:: watches Kate skate past and smiles ::

:: looks around, spotting the skating rink :: Doc/Ryleigh/Kimiko: Kuari and Kate are skating!

Psychic Elf> :: approaches Rike with a tray ::

:: turns her head towards the rink, noting that :: Emily/Doc/Kimiko: Oh yeah, I guess they are.

Emily/Jester: Would you like to skate?

:: blinks rapidly at the sudden appearance of an elf :: Oh! Thank you. :: takes a beverage ::

:: would follow her friends to the edge of the rink, but wouldn't step onto the ice, knowing she was dangerously ungraceful ::

Doc: I think so, looks fun. :: she finishes off her drink, handing the empty glass to one of the psychic elves ::

:: looks down at her floor-length slinky dress and wonders how she's going to skate in it ::

:: follows the others to the ice rink, not getting on. she would instantly fall and somehow skate over her own fingers, but she is more than happy to encourage from the sidelines! ::

:: having worn a fitted blouse and dark formal pants, she was fine, but she had chosen to not go on the ice ::

Zorro/Emily: It's okay, you two go on ahead, but I'd like a dance when you're done.

:: downs the wine and heads to the rink ::

Jester: Of course, but I bet you're a good skater.

:: wore a medium-ugly Christmas sweater and a nice pair of black pants, and now dons a pair of holodeck skates ::

:: in a flowing white shirt and black pants, he's already dressed like a figure skater ::

:: continues skating, eyes able to watch the other skaters now that she's not so wobbly ::

:: skates backward to observe others getting on the ice ::

:: smirks at Zorro :: Zorro: See, I'd go, but it'd just be another competition between us.

:: grins and waves to Kate, then tentatively steps on the ice. She flails her arms and squats at first, then clings to the wall for a moment ::

Jester: It would end up in another tie. :: grins before stepping onto the ice and swooping in to steady Emily ::

:: is watching, giving a slight salute to Kuari and Kate with her glass before turning attention back to Navarro and Acacia ::

:: wore a modest dark grey jacket, brown pants, black shirt—and no, dear readers, she is not conscious of how much of Hannah's fashion sense she has absorbed ::

:: waves back to Emily once her friend is upright again ::

:: mock indignation ::

:: clings to Doc as they slide away from the wall, then slowly begins to stand up and adopt the proper posture ::

:: is wearing her usual hippie maxi-dress, but in a rather festive fabric of poinsettias ::

:: looks at those who are joining her in not skating ::

:: skating along, his arm out for Emily to use as she needs ::

:: nearly falls a few times, then actually does fall down. She chuckles as Doc is helping her back up, squatting to steady herself again ::

:: helps Emily to her skates and offers a few pointers ::

:: glides along next to Kate, slowly getting the hang of turning ::

:: picks up on skating fairly well with the help of Doc's pointers, managing to do a few laps without bumping into anyone ::

:: Really hopes Lexy doesn't fall in that skirt ::

:: also really hopes this ::

:: watches the others skate, doesn't realize how fast she's suckin down that egg nog ::

CEO: I've never had egg nog. Should I try it?

:: don't jinx it ::

Emily: Now you've got it.

:: almost jumps at the sudden presence of the pilot :: NAV2: Uh, do you like sweet drinks?

:: Lexy seems steady and something from her lessons makes its way back into her head, so she skates ahead a bit, speeding up into a jump! ::

:: the décolletage situation may become excessive if she falls, as well ::

Doc: Yeah! It's all in the ankles. :: promptly falls on her ass again, then starts laughing ::

:: laughs and picks her up :: Yep.

:: shrugs :: CEO: Not too sweet, I guess.

:: does a half-twirl in the air and lands skating backwards ::

NAV2: Might not be for you, then. :: sips a good sip :: It's like creamy candy with rum in it.

:: dusts off the back of her pants, watching Kate and giving a quiet 'wow' :: Doc: What lesson is that?

:: catches Kate's fancy move, approving but doubts she could copy it ::

Emily: Hm, not bad. Second semester in that Academy PE elective, I would say.

:: then turns and swooshes back over to Lexy to take her hand once more ::

Kate: I feel like I'm holding you back!

:: nods, thinking he's probably right. She clings to Doc's arms for a minute, then gets her feet back under her again and is off for another few laps ::

Lexy: Of course not! I am just remembering things I learned 25 years ago!

:: claps at the skaters on the rink :: Whoo!

:: now flying solo as Emily has her legs under her, he launches into a bit of figure skating of his own ::

:: watches Doc go off on his own, keeping her own speed slow so she doesn't run into anyone ::

:: does a jump into a single axel ::

:: glides over to the edge of the rink and stops by running into it, tries to act natural as she watches the show-offs ::

Wright: Graceful dismount. :: cheers, downs last quarter of nog ::

:: stops with Lexy and leans on the half-wall ::

Doc: NICE! :: claps ::

:: giggles at D'bryn :: CEO: I was hoping no one would notice.

:: shrugs, smiles ::

:: bows as he skates by Rike ::

Wright: You did a lot better than I woulda.

:: claps and whoops for Navarro ::

CEO: She did not even fall!

:: claps along with the crowd, coming to a slow stop ::

:: tries some egg nog quietly, and finds it way too sweet for her tastes ::

:: missed Navarro's move, but hears and sees the response, smiling anyway ::

:: looks over to Wright :: Alexis: Ditto with Zoe! You did better than I could!

::: skating backwards, he lauches off of one leg into a single lutz ::

:: watches Zorro showboating ::

:: lands the jump and sweeps his other leg out for flair ::

:: once again claps, then checks the time. As he's coming by she waves a hand to get his attention :: Doc: I think I'm done skating.

:: gives another clap for doc :: Doc: Huzzah!

:: bows and skates up to Emily, coming to a precise stop at her side ::

:: looks over at Kate :: Kate: You wanna skate more?

:: witnesses Navarro's move this time, yipping in appreciation, skating slowly and steadily along ::

:: watching Zorro :: That's one graceful dude.

:: shakes her head :: Lexy: 15 minutes to midnight, love.

:: sighs in quiet relief ::

Kate: Dance, then?

:: takes Doc's offered arm and slides to the exit, tromping over to the bench to get her virtual skates off ::

D'bryn: You have no idea.

:: raises eyebrows, gives NAV2 an awkward side-eye ::

Lexy: Always!

Kate: Yay! :: gets her holo-skates off, replacing them with the pair of black satin pumps she was wearing before ::

:: loses the skates and finds another elf for a quick drink ::

:: gets back to her shiny black leather boots ::

:: gives Zoe a sly smile as she takes another sip of wine ::

:: grabs an eggnog from one of the elves and takes a few minutes to finish it as she makes her way to the dancefloor ::

:: stands as Zorro approaches, feeling much more comfortable in her slinky emerald-green satin dress after a few glasses of wine ::

:: glides to the gap in the wall, plonking her skates off to the side, eager to take a break from the unfamiliar muscle usage, and plods over awkwardly for more rumballs ::

:: offers a hand to Jester :: As promised.

:: takes a quick drink after the skating, but of water, and heads to the dance floor with Lexy ::

:: takes the proffered hand :: Zorro: Let the competition commence.

:: finishes her eggnog and somehow convinces one of the elves to put down his tray for a little while and dance with her ::

:: practically drags Kate to the dance floor and snuggles up with her, her feet following Kate's ::

:: quietly, with intent to disarm as he pulls Jester into the dance :: That dress looks incredible on you.

:: glances over Kate's shoulder at D'bryn and wonders where Hannah is, then looks at Grey and wonders where Ethan is, then looks at Emily and glances over at Zorro and Suzuki and wonders how that works... questions she would never ask aloud, but wonders to herself ::

:: grabs a second nog from the nog elf before he waddles off somewhere else ::

:: pulls Lexy close as they dance and sighs contentedly ::

:: hums a German Christmas carol to herself as she watches the others, still taking sips of her drink ::

:: shakes off her thoughts :: Kate: I have a gift for you to unwrap when we get home. Welll... two gifts.

:: is having a great time dancing with one of the holo-elves in her ugly Christmas sweater, all she ever wanted out of this holiday ::

Rike: Hey Rike. Can you dance?

:: whispers back in Lexy's ear :: There is only one gift I want to unwrap tonight.

:: looks over to Zoe :: CEO: Well, better than some people I know, but that isn't saying too much!

:: happily munches a few more rumballs, then finds a convenient elf for another drink, enjoying the music and festive atmosphere ::

Rike: Well, I can't at all, but you wanna?

:: immediately blushes like fire ::

:: finishes off her drink and looks for a place to put the empty glass :: CEO: Why not! Two left feet is better than none at all, eh?

:: once the song ends, they've danced their way near Emily and the elf, so he offers her his hand to join them ::

Rike: Make that four left feet. :: sets the nog down on the bar, grabs Rike's hand :: Alright, who's leadin? You leadin?

ACTION> Two minutes to midnight!

:: let the elf get back to his work and joins Doc and Kimiko's dancing, big grin on her face ::

ACTION> One minute to midnight!

CEO: Absolutely no idea but I suppose I can try! :: listens to the music for a moment, scrunching eyebrows in concentration before starting to move ::

:: welcomes Emily, surprised as she had been ready to step aside ::

:: is led ::

ACTION> 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5...

Rike: I am very sorry.

:: feels a bit woozy, happily watching skaters in one direction, dancing people on the floor, and imbibing people at the bar ::

ACTION> 4, 3, 2, 1, HAPPY NEW YEAR 2401!

:: knows that Emily can sense her surprise ::

Rike: Quick, fistbump me into the New Year. :: offers fist ::

:: joins the countdown, then jumps excitedly and pumps a fist in the air ::

:: kisses Emily, then Jester as the band plays Auld Lang Syne ::

:: bellows loudly :: Happy New Year!

:: pulls Kate down to kiss her ::

:: holds her glass up with a grin :: Happy New Year!

Ah! Happy new year! :: fist bumps Zoe, but not before reaching into her pocket and giving her a literal chocolate kiss :: CEO: Eh?

:: leans down to lay a long kiss on her wife, oblivious to anyone around ::

:: big grin :: Rike: Droll, mein Schatz. :: takes chocolate kiss ::

ACTION> Streamers and confetti fill the air!

:: looks around at the confetti and joins in the clapping ::

:: hugs them both to him as the new year rings in ::

:: fetches her eggnog, chases the chocolate kiss with it ::

:: wraps an arm around Emily as well, feeling a bit nervous but acting confident ::

:: hug Doc back, one arm wrapping around Kimiko as well, giving her a slight squeeze as if to say it's okay ::

:: grins, giving a nod :: CEO: Möge dein Jahr fröhlich und hell sein.

:: smiles at Jester, knowing that's awkward for her ::

:: pounces on some of the falling streamers ::

:: still kissing Lexy, not even noticing that her hair is full of confetti ::

:: doesn't care about anything but this kiss at this point, is melted into Kate's arms ::

ACTION> Auld Lang Syne ends, and the band goes back into its set.

:: squints trying to remember German, picks up on context from knowing just Jahr and fröhlich :: Rike: You...too?

Jester/Emily: We have a few together at this point. May 2401 be a good one.

:: finally comes up for air, trying to regain her composure as Captain's Wife ::

:: hungrily catches her wife's blue-hazel eyes for a long moment before regaining her composure as Captain ::

:: grins :: Doc: I'll toast to that.

:: though he's had one more with Emily because of the lost year on the planet ::

:: suddenly remembers she needs to mentally translate :: CEO: Oh! Yes- apologies. As I tried to say: May your year be joyous and bright.

Zorro/Emily: Hear, hear.

:: which actually is still unsettling, but he raises a glass anyway ::

Rike: I thought it was something along those lines! So, once more with feeling, you too. :: cheers with drink, goes in for hug ::

:: though she may be physically tiny, Rike is one of those people that gives giant hugs ::

: clinks glasses with Emily and Jester ::

:: clinks glasses then takes a big swig ::

: clinks glasses with Zorro and Emily, making meaningful eye contact with each as she does so ::

:: meets Suzuki's eyes with a genuine warmth, happy to see her feeling more comfortable ::

:: hears the clinking of glasses and looks around at her crewmates, feeling fuzzy ::

ACTION> The band strikes into a lively tune!

:: gestures to the band :: CEO: Eh?

:: looks over and sees Kuari and rushes over to hug her as the music changes :: Kuari: Happy New Year, my dear friend!

:: joins in the glomping of Kuari ::

:: downs the rest of the nog, slams the glass down on the bar :: Rike: I'm three drinks in on New Year's, I'll dance all night.

:: bellows again and glomps :: Happy New Year!

Kuari: Happy New Year!

:: bops to the music as she's sipping her drink ::

:: then rushes over to Emily and after a couple of smiles to Zorro and Jester, gives her a hug ::

:: looks around for someone else to glomp ::

:: crosses the floor and warmly hugs Doc and Emily, nodding pleasantly at Suzuki ::

:: picks Kate up in the hug and spins in a circle before setting her back down, then gives Lexy a regular hug as her arms can't take that again ::

CEO: Aye then, let's go! :: leads Zoe over to the dance floor and despite not having great moves, she still is very sprightly for her age ::

:: hugs Lexy back and whispers a quick compliment on her dancing, since he had given her lessons ::

:: beams at Emily ::

:: grins :: Kate/Lexy: Happy New Year!

:: grins at Zorro ::

Emily: Happy New Year! :: senses a warm vibe and smiles ::

:: still getting used to sensing things in this way ::

:: crosses to offer a hug to Rike and Zoe, both of whom she's hoping to befriend ::

:: gets hugged ::

Wright: Happy New Year, Commander!

:: follows along to Rike and Zoe, all smiles ::

:: dances terribly up to Wright, pulls her into a spin, and then hugs her, and continues to terribly dance :: frohes neues Jahr!

:: offers them hugs as well, having grown fond of her newer crewmates ::

:: laughs hysterically as she is spun ::

:: does a terrible dance around Kate and then hugs her ::

:: laughs and hugs Rike ::

:: hands an empty glass to one of the elves and gets back to dancing, basically just vibing to the beat ::

:: dances along with Emily and Jester ::

:: idly wonders if she can convince the band to play a tango ::

:: then finds Zoe and hugs her too :: Rike/Zoe: Happy New Year!

:: gets hugged :: Harper: Happy New Year, Captain!

Kate: AYE! frohes neues Jahr! :: continues other celebratory shouts in German, doing some odd dance in a squat ::

:: looks over at Grey and is intimidated by her ::

:: spins Jester, then Emily ::

:: finds several others to glomp, but is reserved with anyone that doesn't invite it and refrains, smiling a lot though ::

:: takes a glass and speaks up over the band in her captain's tone, which quiets down in response :: A toast! :: raises her glass ::

:: twirls so that her skirt flares flatteringly as she is spun ::

:: remains leaning against the rail of the ice rink, sipping her drink slowly, and watching the rest of the crew carefully; noting Wright's glance over, and returns the look squarely ::

:: is spun and laughs mirthfully, enjoying dancing with the two ::

May 2401 be a year of peace and friendship, exploration and science!

:: grunts slightly as she stands up from her very low squat dance :: CEO: That was not my best idea... Oh mein. :: listens to Harper ::

:: bellows in loud agreement with Kate's toast ::

ACTION> Fireworks burst forth into the sky against the backdrop of dancing aurora!

:: shouts :: Here, here!

:: holds up her drink and cheers ::

:: raises her glass in a toast, feeling very tipsy :: Rike: No bad ideas tonight, Rike!

:: cheers! ::

:: holds hand up as she is lacking a drink :: Prost!

:: takes a running leap and bounds into the sky, remembering partway up to turn her nose on bright and flies around amongst the aurora ::

:: jokes :: CEO: It's a bad idea if I break a hip prematurely!

:: watches Kuari flying through the fireworks and aurora ::

Rike: Good thing Emily's, like, right there. :: points ::

:: hears her name and spins around. Seeing no one's meant to call her she smiles and waves anyway ::

:: whoops loudly at Kuari, loving being her with her friends ::

Emily: Oi! Would you save me if I broke a hip dancing tonight? :: puts back of hand on forehead, pretending to be a damsel in distress ::

:: snorts :: Rike: Nope! Walk it off!

PAUSE PARTY

PAUSE PARTY

PAUSE PARTY