Arterius

Proximal to the Main Plaza district sits a popular dance hall named Elysium. Unlike the common Victorian theme of this town, the club stands out in opposition with its defying modern aesthetic: Tall bold columns of grey cement post beside regal embellishment of colorful stained-glass framed by a network of illustrious gold. Contrasting the typical themes of its external environment, the dance hall welcomed styles and classes of all types creating a hybrid of the community's diverse culture. Inside, the club boasted a large central dance hall boasting immaculate marble tile checking black and white. Wisps of aether breezed through, lamps of the same strobe an assortment of colors to suit a variety of moods. Deeper within its fanciful confines were well established arterioles of lounges - each expression to accommodate its patron's unique style with a unique theme to match.


The night was young. Sweat dripped by the bead onto the reflective dance floor. Ever since the city-wide festival had concluded just the day prior, business had been bustling. A hall full of new patrons eager to meet a new face and share the best of what they had to give. Twirls and spins, hands to hold, the most beautiful dresses and suits - or lack their of. Drinks flew off the platters as soon as the catering team displayed them. In order to celebrate the event a grandiose numeration of gifts were brought. Treasures, a pride to show the wealth across the lands. Treats, a joy to share the taste of their world. Music, a triumph to unite the diversity of their realm.


Her topaz nails brushed so gently across her banes of her eye-level bob cut. Stray hairs caught themselves within the velvety texture of her golden glitter which accentuated her long swept eye lashes. The strap of her handbag ran acute to the spaghetti straps of her black pencil-skirt dress. The anubian's jackal ears bounced in sync with her bob at each clicking step of golden high-heels. In all of her ambition, Shelsa set her course into the discotheque with a particular objective: A gem she had seen presented during the festivities. It's possession and existence was not made explicit; instead, Shelsa saw with a keen eye it's crimson glint from her silks which bled from the sky above. And all seeing eye, she did see eye-to-eye, a deal made in the secrecy which curtains and guards and illusory ghosts had failed to conceal: The Tradagon's Eye. Little was known to her about the gem beyond its emerald green and ruby red appearance. She might have guessed, which she did, by the covert methods she had witnessed, it was likely the gem did not belong to its captor.

The woman stretched one arm over the other. A series of golden bracelets clattered musically as she pulled her sore arm from the silk performance before. Nimble hands would be required if she were to want this more than its current holder. She peered over her shoulder for a moment, ran her hand further up and slid a strap of her dress over the side of her shoulder - a taste of temptation could serve to her benefit as well.

What would bring a man like Aurok to such an establishment? He was a warrior of an ancient people, who's presence alone captivated most. The tall, usually battle ready warrior looked a touch different. His hair was pulled back into a tail. Hid torso clad with a sleek black vest. No shirt beneath it though. His arms on full display. Metal and with a shine to them. More than usual! Like they had a polish!? Perhaps this was how Typhins dolled up some? By shining their metal bits! All for good reason too!

Aurok was here to dance!

The elf didn't know the people or the culture. But he knew what dancing was! And to watch and learn was easy! He mingled among the people. Helped himself to a couple drinks to get the mood right. Then before long at all the man was up and at it! Not the best by any means! But something about a tall, muscular Typhin elf, dancing while looking like party boy in his shirtless vest. Yeah, he had the heads turning for other reasons! The guy was hot! Simple as that!

After a good bit of working it on the dance floor, Aurok was sitting back at a side bar, sipping a drink and just watching the people around him. He liked observing people and absorbing their culture. It was fun to learn about these different regions and what people did within them. At the moment though, his eyes were quickly taken by a captivating sight. A beautiful Anubian woman. Her jackal ears reminded him of the beastkind local to his homeland. Not quite as humanoid as her, but that was not a take away at all! Her delicious bronzed skin was a sight for his eyes to behold! And that outfit doing wonders for his draw to her.

Alas... she seemed to be grabbing the attention of someone else at the moment. Shame. Perhaps he would catch up with her later in crossing?...

The dance floor was blazing with life. All sorts of characters from different sizes and shapes, colors and creeds, attire and style! A tune was booming from the speakers above and below setting an atmosphere for the social scene.



The aether wisps in the air hovered around and pulsated in color to the notes of the music. Softer moments in the melody provided an opening for conversation, where it picked up that language converted into body expression as folks entangled close to a friend or stranger. Among the crowd some figured stood out. There were tiger men with fierce hairstyles, aquatic women sporting the most stunning dresses, even a particular tribal Typhin was alluring some attention - yet in the stark diversity of the event none of these characters immediately stood out against the crowd. Neon rainbows guided his way off the dance floor to the bar, Shelsa's gem catching eyes couldn't help but fancy the colorful sparkles of aetherlight against Aurok's metalic arms.

Scanning the room the anubian paced herself. Heels ceased clacking at the moment a large breathe was taken in. A sigh, Shelsa decompressed to the atmosphere of the disco. The intoxicating embellishment of perfumes and sweat, alcohol in forms of hard and sweet taste. An aroma wafted through of her own making - a pungent ocean fruit's scent embodying something sweet and creamy with its own pheromonal sting. Her eyes set low as she leered across the sea of bodies. The gold speckle in her lashes transitioned into a solid coat of eyeshadow.

There, just then, she caught a glimpse of the familiar looking man who held the Tradagon's Eye. Unfortunately, he seemed to be going to the subservient rooms behind private access. She would have to kill time for an opening, perhaps proliferating her credibility to gather some standing renown. Her goal would be the same as usual: play, tease, and taunt, until the target in mind cant help to resist her. Then strike and take them for all their worth once they have completely fallen for her. A grin scored her black lips to accompany her bright ambition.

Kiting along the tail end of that confidence she decided to hit the floor. Curiously the music coursed an entirely different sense of energy on the checkered tile. The bass transformed into a physical sensation, the ground throbbing to its heavy hits. A light bite of her lip, she lifted her dress from her small chest and placed her purse in to dance. The anubian bounced her way into a small circle, finding the most attractive lady who would be a certain interest for some higher class persons. There she was, a Tabaxi with pink streaks in her fur and a toga-styled dress. With a partner already, Shelsa interjected herself. Hand easing kindly over the Tabaxi's shoulder, she leaned in. An assertive "Excuse me, I just have to dance with this wonder!" preceded an aggressive hip bump to the man before her. The Tabaxi, slightly taken off guard, the man almost as offended as he was confused, quickly left their worries at the door as Shelsa pulled in closer and swayed their hips to the rhythm with flavor. For a moment she held close to the feline, placing their heads in eachother's neck, rubbing their bodies together. She peered through the attendees, shooting shy smiles and winks to observers.

While enjoying the dance club there were plenty of moments where Aurok was borderline captivated by the lights and sounds. The effects they used the aether for. How the hues of color floated around and wisped in and out of sprayers and mirror spheres. It literally painted the air itself an assortment of colors, with the vibes of the music playing through too. It was intoxicating! Or maybe that was the drink?

Aurok had downed a few different drinks by now. Mixing all sorts of different liquors, just trying out everything he could! He was in a new land! May as well enjoy what he could experience, right?!

All the more reason why he found his eyes again drifting over to that anubian girl. She was back! Moving to the dance floor! Swaying her body and bumping and grinding up on others. Just having fun so it looked! Did he catch one of those shy little smiles and winks from her, as she was dancing up against the Tabaxi?

Aurok had no idea how long he was going to be here. In town that was. His trips could be for days, weeks, or months at a time. And maybe this jackal was not a local? You miss 100% of the shots you don't take right?

Leaving just the remnant of ice and single mouthful of drink in his cup there on the bar, Aurok made his way back to the dance floor! He moved in with the music, and instead of dancing with or up against anyone, he instead danced between them all! Moving through the floor! Never staying in much of a single spot, until he was behind the Tabaxi and in eyesight of Shelsa. The tall, muscular warrior didn't say anything. He just gave her a look if she were to gaze his way. A gesture with his head for her to come join him, and dance! Before going right back to it, and moving to the music! She'd either join him or not. So why not just wait and see!

The song began to wind down. The motion of the floor lulled a little as partners swapped and others retreated to the bars for refreshment. In the background a new track was fading into the mix, still so distant it was unsure just what might play. To appease the cultural diversity they played a set of all sorts of tunes for different ears.

Shelsa could help noticing the eyes attracted to her. Even the man with metallic arms put his drink down to gravitate toward her. Clearly, her efforts to draw some attention had worked with effortless results. The promising glances of the suits in the back reveled her with encouragement too. A step closer toward the gem, she merely needed continue what she was doing.

Just then her eyes locked with the Typhin man enjoying himself. It was the confidence and promise of a good time that made him stick out. Easy enough to have fun with friends on a night out in town. But to go by your lonesome and still enjoy yourself suggested an err of self-love and relaxation. Shelsa ducked her face reactively into the Tabaxi's neck, her face buried in the feline's fur yet her yellow eyes peeked out cutely to admire the dancer. She would take him up on his offer.

Her dance ended with her pulling away, she cocked her head kindly asserting some admiration for sharing the moment together. "Sharing this this moment has been quite enjoyable. A certain pleasure." The Tabaxi expressed a similar sentiment, send the anubian off with a peck upon the cheek. With her wishes, Shelsa rode the confidence toward her admirer, noticing some consequence of the partner she shared. Bracelets jingled as she flushed her hands down her dress to slough off some hair from the Tabaxi. "Ah how disgusting! I hope she didn't ruin my dress." she muttered to herself. A slight cough as she collected herself before her new company. "It appears as if you're enjoying yourself, perhaps you'd appreciate the pleasure of having me join you?" With that she wiggled her hips, getting a feel for the man's energy. Her distance wasn't exactly on purpose, his arms while curious to her were an unknown caution instead.

She would ease into his advances, wondering if the next song playing was attuned to himself, if somehow she could learn something about him by how he meshed with it.

It seemed the confidence of just being himself had proved to be enough as the music continued and Aurok maintained his pace and rhythm. He was in no rush! Some things must simply proceed at their natural pace, if they were to reach the ends that are meant to be. So if Shelsa were to pass him up, then there was no worry in his mind. She was here to enjoy her time out at the club and party atmosphere as much as he was too. As all good things go though, that natural progression and slowly approaching goal brought a smirk to Auroks face. Shelsa departed from her previous partner and approached the elf. At her own pace. A stride and safe pace, certainly, that anyone should carry about them when approaching a stranger. Especially one whos arms displayed a ready means to cause harm if so chosen to do so! Aurok was trained and well aware of his physical self, however! In many years now, he had never accidentally harmed anyone!

Slowly the music shifted, and a very dance worthy, and upbeat song took to the aetherwaves through the air!

The smooth, pulsing intro of the song, and then the perfectly heated cry of a saxophone was all it took to set a new mood right here on the floor! Aurok did not approach Shelsa, but he listened to her. An offer to be joined? Why, of course he would love that! With a smile upon his lips he silently told her so as well, as his body continued to dance and move! His steps never actually bringing him any closer to her now. Keeping what seemed to be an almost measured distance between the two of them. His steps taking him around this set radius he had allowed her to establish when she had first walked up to him. All to at least one moment though which might seem like but the perfect part in the song where he could offer a hand out to her. Outstretched, and hand upturned. Gentle in its gesture. And if Shelsa were to reach and take it, just as much so upon her skin. Cool was the metal of his fingers, against the heat of the body packed club!

Only then, and if Shelsa had indeed joined closer to him would Aurok dance against her now. Allowing his body to flow and pulse with the music. A wave to his body which would pulse through his hips in bumps and sways, as if he were just riding the Aethersynth waves with her! "What a fun city. This has been a good first night here." Aurok would muse, as they danced together. As if his figure alone did not reveal the fact that he was an outsider. He confessed first hand that he was new to the city and enjoying himself. What shame was there in that? The smile on his face seemed innocent and happy enough that there really was not much else behind the mans intentions. He was here to just have some fun. Loosen up, and dance!!!

The new tune hit the floor. A smooth embellishment of jazzy rhythm overcame the club. Many who jived put themselves out there, and others retreated to the bars for some cocktails. Space opened up between the two, a presumably calculated distance. It struck her as odd. The man wreaked of confidence and was clearly enjoying himself, quite personable one could retain, and yet he seemed almost docile. Shelsa would assume it was likely just the flare of his culture. For certain it was a mark of courtesy.

She strafed his radius. Gold eyes leering in the aethermist to admire the man's moves. Steady and loose, she grew to match his energy. Salacious smirks formed when their eyes shyly met. The saxophone met her ears and only then did she realize the light perspiration that overcame from dancing. After all, grinding against a warm furball would encourage such results. The wind's soothing notes swept in breeze with the surrounding commotion migrating. In the void the jackal seemed to have no choice other than to fixate on this cryptic elf. His pull drew her in as heels clicked to the beat of the song - legs seeming to follow the guidance of her hips with each step. His confidence became her own as the outstretched hand beckoned to share the climax of the song together.

The metallic luster of his arms shone invitingly. Upon the anubian's acceptance of his offer, she found an immediately jarring sensation. By no means was it anything bad nor off-putting, though she was taken aback all the same. It's hard cool material felt so recuperating against her hot dark skin. If anything the comparison was more odd between it and its owner; the touch felt hard and lifeless, but their actions and prospect were the exact opposite. Black finger nails clanked against the metal. Shelsa's eyes folded closed and her mouth dropped in a momentary gasp. It felt nice.

Shelsa's face was flushed beyond the makeup as she pulled herself into him. "No need to be so docile.." she spoke softly through her smile. Fingers brushing through her bob. Her petite body picked up on the groove they began to share. Hips rocking side to side, a couple steps thrown into the mix. Arms were free doing whatever felt right to the music. The man spoke for the first time, starting off light with conversation as he did the rest. She wagered he was the type to ease into things, the type that lives simply in the moment and builds themself up. Judging by his words he may be testing the waters in general around here to establish how he fits in.

"First of many I might hope." She assured him, seeing him as no less than any other belonging member of the city. "Im pleased to see such a lively variety out tonight. This place was getting rather drab before the festival." She took a second to straighten down her skirt, the swaying and steps would cause it's tight form to ride up along her thighs. "What brings you into Arterius anyw-" before she could finish her question a familiar melody crept through the previous song at the speakers around.



Interrupting herself she cheered with childlike excitement. A gasp preceded her, "My song! Thank the dieties they saved this track.. You have to join me for this one!" Shelsa pressed off Aurok's chest, reenlisting some of that original distance. Bracelets rattled as she tucked her elbows across her chest into each hand. Arms pressed together the subtle breasts that she had. Swaying her shoulders she rocked herself into a trance. First the kick, her black ears bobbed against each percussion. Then the snare, the fur from their stature rippled with each pulsating sting. She vibed seductively to the rest, her closed eyes guiding her head back as she followed the guidance of the lyrics. One hand dropped form an elbow, gracing her inner thigh with the reassurance for the space between. Lights strobed from a white to a purple to accent the deafening darkness when they lights would kill between strobes. High then low, the lights alternated from floor glow to wall lights, the aetherplumes a twisting haze. As the beat kicked up she ride her spine and abdomen against the fog. Synths took over and her body became a full function of interchanging motions all in seamless connection. Her arms weaved through the fog, pumping and sifting to each compliment of the song. Hands chased up her pelvis, following a fluid grace over her torso and wrapped her neck. The reprieve of the song began and opened her eyes narrowly to her partner. Her hands left her neck and outstretched toward Aurok as she walked closer to him. This time the swing of her buttocks lead her steps, legs pivoting at the toes and swiveling.

"Show me your worth, iron arms.." she taunted. She was there open for him to use her to dance as he wished, or to otherwise observe and bounce to his maneuvers.

In their moments of contact, Shelsa shared with him her first thought, which spoke of his presence. Docile. Was he just that? Perhaps. In this strange location he was simply doing as he could to fit in. Catch the vibe of the club and it's patrons. Then of course earn the attention of the jackal, which it seemed for now has been a successful venture.

Together they danced! Once Shelsa having joined Aurok, his poise loosening up some more as he moved to the music more fluidly. Between swells of sax and the over all beat and rhythm of the song. Aurok was much more sensual and in the mood of it all once Shelsa had accepted his company. To the song as well, like one who were following their prey, the elf danced up with Shelsa but also around her. His body like tides of wind, swaying around her to the music. At times landing behind her, so tall and looming. His hands, cool and edged upon the fingers, grasping her hips as he'd roll his form with hers. Eventually making his way back around to be front facing again.

Hopefully the first of many indeed. At the very least, Aurok was here and he was having such fun! Not having danced previously with a feline companion, Aurok was less glossed in perspiration than Shelsa was. But as the song went on he could feel his own blood pumping. The alcohol in his system too also adding more a sway to his mind which just felt so good in the aether mist!

The change of song brought such delight to his partner, that all Aurok could do was gently vibe to his own pace while watching the seductress go! She was something else! Head to toe, dripping with such appeal and sexuality. She took this song and owned every note. Capturing Aurok like a spider in this musical web she danced and moved her body through with ease.

The invitation. Finding the stride and rhythm of the song, Aurok smiled as he came bouncing over towards her. On beat, his body pulsing and rising up on the balls of his feet then back down to his heels. Feeling the base of the song, and even more so the lyrics. So dance with her, he would!

Those Iron Arms of his cut through the mist as his body stood before hers. Almost pressing her chest to his torso, but just shy to only tease the contact. His arms how to his sides, moving with the music, in an interesting display. He was finding the beat. Dancing in a sense. But it looked like he was weaving something instead. Which he most certainly was! The air in the room, starting at their feet spun with an coolness. Where the temperature down lower was such. It caught the aether mist though and spun that around them, where then it lifted like an upward breeze, flowing the colored mist up between the both of them. Lifting beneath her clothes and up her sweat glossed skin.

A momentary play on the wind was all it was. Not wanting to draw any attention to himself outside of what ever he earned from the jackal. Aurok danced with and around her some more. Leaning his head in so that his face were closer to her shoulder and neck. Eyes closed for a moment as he just felt with her presence, dancing with her, and taking the most brief of scents from her as he breathed in her presence.

Gusts of refreshing air wove about Shelsa, unknowing its source or cause. Gently coursing her she almost lost herself in the sensation of dance. Her confidence radiated, zealously intrigued by these mystifying motions Aurok had been displaying. Like a free-form aerobics dancer his steady flow was all-encompassing and yet focused, like the flair of a hunter seeking a prey. She started not to mind if she were that prey. Everyone had their own purpose for being at the club. Their meeting had just nearly caused her to forget her original purpose. A swift breeze then entered her from below. Startling yet soothing, good thing she had as tight of a dress as she did!

A slight yip escaped her at the sudden surprise. Some of the feline's hairs caught in the draft as she held her arms tight underneath the sudden chill. Covered in sweat the new currents set the anubian's skin with some goosebumps. Her glossy lips let out a giggle, she found it endearing if not a tad silly to see this tall man leaning down to her height. Shyness momentarily ruling over her confidence she blushed at his having-a-good-time, and as he closed his eyes she ventured toward. Shoulders rolling, chest pumping, she placed herself inside Aurok's personal circle. Laying hands on each of his hunched shoulders, grabbing a feel of his kinetic energy. Her aroma that of a dessert mountain flower, sweet and savory with a tinge of spice. She felt comfortable in pause. This, she could get used to.


As the track faded a new one bled in. It was met with a much softer volume, many of the effects of the dance floor subsiding as the DJ got on the mic.

"Ladiessss and gentlemeeennn.... and, everyone in between." His voice sung out in a low tone with enough funk pepped to keep the heels on the floor kicking. "I want to extend my thanks out to each and e'ry one of you who showed up tonight to celebrate the grand Arterius ball. So many talented dancers out here tonight!"
The crowd cheered - for Arterius, for the ball, for themselves. The man with the mic let the applause carry out. So many different people from different cultures expressed their own unique congratulation, from hollering to vapid tribal hoo-has, horns, there might have even been a gunshot or firework masked in the noise. The human DJ, once of the most common races now seemed to be as rare and unique as the rest with such a reminder.

"Hahahaa, ok now folks settle down, settle down... The night is still *young* after all!" He hummed to their attention. "Yes yes, some fine dancers indeed. Some shining vibrantly like the gods of the sun themselves!" More people cheered. "**Ra**, was it?" He boasted in a supposing tone to which Shelsa visibly turned red.
"HAH!!" he blurted out, "Thats right little lady, dont think I didnt see you out there tonight." A strobe light swung over and stood on the position of Shelsa and Aurok. "Everybody give it up for Shelsa!! and.. her.. friend!"
The crowd broke out into a similar roar with some nearby staffmembers throwing flower petals at the two of them. She loved the attention, at least, she would have any other time. To be the center of attention under the looming limelight of the crowd. Yet its unsolicited spontaneity caught her off guard. "H-hi- I mean, thank you, everyone.." she spoke with her face all red, arm covering her decorated eyes as they adjusted to glaring lamp above.

"The sssteamiest, sssultriest, sssavoriest seductress of the silks, servant and sycophant from the south, the *sexy sexy* Shelsa!! Excellent performance at the concert. Those sky silks look treacherous! Blessing us like an angel in the sky you swung overhead, golden glitter in your grace. Truly truly remarkable!" Shelsa's blushing continued, stepping back into his chest and seeking refuge in the assumed safety of Aurok's stature.

"Congratulations asssiide, I wanted to grab yall's attention for our *special prize*. Thats right! That click clacking of feet hooves and talons alike might pay off for something this time!! I want to invite everyone in next week for the first ever Arterius Dance Competition, hosted by yours truly." He polished his smile with a wink. "I might add that this event is a couples-entry only.. So all you wall flowers get up off that wall and find yourselves a partner! Ohh! And it would shame me to not reveal the incentive for such a task, listen up all you fine folk! The prize will be the legendary *Tradagon's Eye* in all its mesmerizing glory!"

Lights on the far side of the hall flickered on to reveal a table with heavy security behind a large jewel case securing the gem itself. This declaration set Shelsa to full attention, no longer worried about the lights that had passed, instead focused solely on her original target.

"Hmmm, I figured that would get your attention, little miss. Well if you and your friend there open together, assuming he can dance half as well as you my dear, I predict your odds are rather substantial in taking home that stone! Alright e'rbody!! Lets reconvene at this junction next week for our competition. For the rest of you, enjoy these beats for the remainder of the night." With that note, the DJ left the stage and disappeared into the mass of staff.

Aurok could find himself with the anubian nestled with a firey conviction. Her silky ears pressing against his chest as she tilted her head back and peered up at him. "We have to win this competition. I suppose you have my name now, I expect thoust give in return. Especially if we are to be partners in this, I expect your best moves too!"