strangetrip

If a thing done more than once could be said to be a tradition, then tradition was observed. The restaurant was set for a party, overflowing with whatever the cooks and bakers of the inn had chosen to create. The bar was stocked from the wine cellar. The bartenders had created a couple of special New Year's cocktails for the occasion in addition to the usual champagne: Blue "Drunk Jack Frosties", frothy pink "Mistletoe Margaritas" and warm boozy hot cocoa.

Caroline had tried to convince each of the guests she knew had musical talent to perform, at least a song or two, but had a playlist ready in case they didn't. For those without their own instruments, the karaoke machine was set up in the lobby, conveniently near the bar so one could find courage as needed first.

Between Christmas and today, the decorations had been changed out - the tree was still there of course, and the mistletoe. But now golds and silvers dominated the colors of the streamers. Sparkling snowflakes dangled and sprays of gold stars. A banner hung over Darryl's head, wishing any who glanced his way a Happy New Year! There was even a disco ball, dug out from some storage closest, turning slowly and sending little shards of light dancing over the pink rose carpet.

Even from the outside, the inn radiated good cheer and hope for the future, as if by sheer will, they could all make it so.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Under the table, Curnen couldn't see the playful how dare you face Vex pulled, but she did it anyway, and it carried over into her tone. "I don't know what you're talking about. I am a joy to all who meet me.

"... Except dragons. And demons. And elves, but they're assholes, so they don't count.... And this one merchant in Vassalheim for some reason. But everyone else, absolutely."

That finally got through to her. Curnen snorted and started to giggle like a kid.

"See? I even charm you. And that, I imagine, isn't always the easiest thing to do." Not right now, at least, if Curnen was back to hiding under tables. On the other hand, at least she was here. When Vax got to brooding, he could disappear completely.

"Although if you really want a giggle, you should peek out when I leave. According to some people, I've developed quite the waddle." Not that anyone but her family should dare say so to her face. Vex's tempers had gotten even scarier thanks to the stupid pregnancy hormones.

"Oh," Curnen grinned wide, "you have."

What? She noticed things.

"Hush, you!" Vex chided, but not angry at all. If Curnen needed a reminder she was family, Vex's reaction should be more than enough. Someone she didn't love would get told off for real.

"It's not easy being graceful when you're the size of a glabrezu."

Curnen only giggled at Vex's feigned offense, feeling not in the slightest uncertain. "It's cute."

"Oooh, I see. It's make fun of Vex'ahlia time." If Curnen could still laugh, things weren't as dire as they could have been, and it made Vex comfortable enough to let Curnen deal with the holiday however she felt like.

"Which means it's time for me to track down somebody who thinks I'm beautiful... and knows better than to laugh at me. Besides, there's kissing that's supposed to happen." At midnight, for one, although whether Vex could make it that late wasn't a sure thing these days when she got tired so much faster, but it wasn't like she and Percy would wait for some clock to tell them when they could kiss anyway.

"Happy New Year, Curnen darling."

NYE

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