Encounterlogs
Ritsukas Odd Encounter Sr Benjamin 250224
In the mystical township of Haven, an urgent quest unfolds as Ritsuka and Takeshi become entangled in a high-stakes chase to secure a powerful artifact before the malevolent Destined Host can claim it. The tranquil ambiance of their meeting space, a room adorned with the gentle glow of paper lanterns and the soothing scent of incense, swiftly turns into a buzzing hive of anticipation and strategy. Ritsuka, bearing the weight of previous encounters with the Destined Host, sighs heavily, recognizing the gravity of their new mission. Her command to scout and possibly ambush Destined Host members underscores the urgency and danger of their task. Meanwhile, in the throes of excitement, Takeshi, oblivious to the supernatural perils hinted at by an upsurge in town activity, fixates on the adventure ahead. Despite Ritsuka's frustrations and the ominous signs foretelling a complex battle ahead, they ready themselves to thwart their adversaries' plans and protect their turf, all while the town's unsuspecting inhabitants and the supernatural community rally for a treasure hunt that could perilously blur the lines between their worlds.
Simultaneously, at the Starlight Lounge, a newly unveiled venture touched by the shadows of secret deals and the thirst for power, Juniper and Keith are plunged into a covert operation against the Golden Shadow. With the "Moonstone," a coveted artifact capable of immense power, on the line, they're forced to concoct a daring and risky strategy to outmaneuver their opponents. As the auction nears, with Kasia, a formidable vampire, at its heart, Juniper contemplates a daring switcheroo that risks everything they've worked for. With Keith's hesitant agreement to distract Kasia with one of his storied tales, the operation's success hangs by a thread. The ensemble of darkly clad figures, each a harbinger of the Golden Shadow's reach, converges on the lounge, tightening the noose around the imminent exchange. Amid the rising tension and the cloak of night edging closer, Keith and Juniper navigate the treacherous waters of Haven's supernatural underbelly, striving to secure the Moonstone for their own ends and, in doing so, directly challenge the formidable forces poised against them.
(Ritsuka's odd encounter(SRBenjamin):SRBenjamin)
[Sun Feb 23 2025]
In A tranquil bedroom
The soft glow of paper lanterns casts a gentle, warm light across the room, illuminating the delicate shoji screens that line the walls. The floor is covered in smooth tatami mats, their subtle scent blending with the faint aroma of incense. In the corner of the room, a futon is carefully laid out, its simple cotton sheets neatly folded, inviting restful sleep. Above the futon hangs a small kamidana, a household Shinto altar, where offerings of rice and salt have been placed in delicate porcelain bowls.
A katana on a katana stand has been placed down besides the tatami mats, quickly in reach for anyone sleeping and suddenly woken up.
It is dusk, about -1F(-18C) degrees, and the sky is covered by dark grey stormclouds.
(The Destined Host has discovered the existence of an ancient demonic artifact hidden somewhere in Haven. It is believed to possess the power to open a portal to the demon realm, allowing more of these entities to enter this world. The artifact is protected by a series of deadly traps and powerful protective charms. The characters must find and retrieve the artifact before the Destined Host can get their hands on it. However, they are not alone in this race against time, as the Destined Host has also sent a group of their most ruthless agents to claim the artifact. This encounter could involve solving puzzles, combat against supernatural enemies, and tense negotiation with members of the Destined Host. The players have the option to destroy the artifact, use it for their own ends, or try to find a way to use it to undermine the Destined Host's plans.)
Ritsuka smiles with a little bit of mischief when she returns to the room, looking at Takeshi "I know, I never nap in. Had a lot of work to handle today and then went on for a brief nap. Turned a little longer than I had intended, but that's what it is." She pauses, and then steps to the wardrobe, looking for some of her other items. "Has there been anything today that I've missed, Takeshi?"
Takeshi is stretching out as Ritsuka enters into the room. It seems like he had let himself in and was standing here like that was completely normal! Though, Takeshi was not known for his awareness of social convention so it might simply be that. "Ah, morning Obachan" He greets her, his phone in his hand as he scrolls in typical teenager fashion "We got work to get done today?" He asks with the tonality of a henchman asking a mob boss what crimes they'd be committing today
Takeshi would have said that in Japanese
Takeshi says "Oh, I visited Domino. We almost got in a fight. I think it's okay, though?"
It is nearly dusk in the township of Haven where the polar cold fronts never abate and well into Feburary this sleepy coastal town is experiencing sub-zero tempatures. The last vestiges of sunlight are blocked by low and ominous stormclouds that roll in fromt the ocean. As Takeshi and Ritsuka exchange some dialogue in Japanese there is a beep and a vibration from their respective phones. Should Ritsuka and Takeshi check either of their devices they would find MyHaven and other social media showing #HavenTreasure2025 trending. Apparently a sudden fervor to participate in a sketchy and never before heard of hunt for lost treasure in Haven has taken the people. There are pictures of bundled up hikers going out into the woods, in addition to postings of people roaming some of the historical sites in Haven like the Library, Townhall, and the Antler's. Where the non-supernaturals have a sudden urge to go treasure hunting and document every single moments with tiktoks, photos, and more... The supernatural community notes an uptick in out of town cults and sects in the town as if this weekend is a jamboree of interest including some sightings of Destined Host members traveling in pairs and allegedly searching for something or someone.
Takeshi looks at his phone, and the undertones of 'this is really bad because lots of non supernaturals are getting dangerously close to supernatural things and are gunna start seeing some shit' is completely lost on him. Instead, there is an excited grin "Obachan!" He calls out to Ritsuka, turning his phone to show her, practically pushing the screen into her face "There's treasure in Haven! Everyone's looking for it!" He says, glancing around before grabbing his boots, sitting fast as he starts pulling on them "We gotta get out there quick or someone else is gunna find it before us!" He tells her, a sense of urgency in his voice as he starts to lace up
There is, perhaps one of the most frustrated sighs a woman could do when Ritsuka makes one, reading through it and seeing the traces of the Destined Host. "You know, Takeshi-san- The filthy Destined Host scum is one of our biggest enemies. One of our -true- enemies, they keep doing their thing close to me and around the Tsubaki. Had one of them summon a demon from hell inside my Pharmacy a few weeks ago, then another situation with them again." She breathes in deep. "I'll have some of the scouts figure out what they're looking for, or if they can find a duo we can ambush. Should be no issue together with my protection detail. Probably yet another dumb artifact that shouldn't exist." Ah, so many experiences, but that will not make the Destined Host disappear or vanish. Instead, her gaze now switches on the app on her phone and sends the task through. "Should tell the rest of the Tsubaki to be especially protective of our turf. Not allow them to wander in."
(The Golden Shadow has started a bidding war for a rare artifact known as the "Moonstone" that is rumored to grant immense power. The artifact is currently in the possession of a notorious vampire in Haven. The characters must either outbid the Golden Shadow, steal the Moonstone before the auction, or disrupt the auction to prevent the artifact from falling into the wrong hands. They may also choose to align themselves with the Golden Shadow if the price is right.)
Making his way out to the small rose garden outside of the Starlight Lounge, Keith waves his hand in Juniper's direction with a big doofy smile on his face, "Heeeey June!"
The air in Haven clings thick with tension, heavy with the scent of rain and secrets. Juniper and Keith find themselves within the newest establishment owned by the Forged Fortune, The Starlight Lounge. However, beyond the stretch of elegance the lounge provides with its sophisticated decor and fine dining offerings, a darker pulse thrums-a heartbeat of whispered deals and unseen wagers. Amid a seemingly normal night, Juniper and Keith's phones buzz in tandem.
Any other time, that short burst of sound from the phones would be easy to ignore, but this time, it doesn't cease. It is not brief, and it seems like one message after another comes through, the buzzing's relentless assault demanding their attention. The first thing they would see on their screens is "It's happening, now." There's no name, no number to speak of. There's only the message.
Should one of them choose to open their messages and read further, they'll see that in a panic, someone has contacted the both of them regarding...an auction. "Moonstone- powerful artifact. Bidding...Golden Shadow. Find it." Each word is another text message. Whoever it is, they're very freaked out, and very adamant. One further text comes to each phone. "Go!"
While this might have some meaning to just about anyone BUT Keith, Keith just stares at his phone blankly... Look up from his phone, holding it out to Juniper, "Do you know what his means?"
Juniper is looking at her phone already, probably assuming the worst since the last slew of panicked texts. Her brows furrow as she reads and she glances to Keith next. "Alright well. Two things. One. Powerful artifacts? Elias's love language. I'd better go get it in case he tells me that he really needed it when he gets back. And even if he uses it as a paperweight, I'd rather be safe than sorry." She gives Keith a knowing grin, as if he might relate. "Two? Fuck the Golden Shadow. Let's spend some more money to drown my sorrows, huh?"
"Yea, lets spend money, frick the Golden Shadow!" Keith lets out boisterously as he starts hopping around, bobbing his head as he does, "Lets do it!"
Perhaps the person responsible for those texts takes a moment to calm down, as a brief lull settles over the airwaves. Phones remain still, offering a fleeting pause, a false sense of reprieve. Yet the silence is short-lived. The devices buzz again, this time with longer, more deliberate messages. The description unfolds in stark detail- the Moonstone, an oval, palm-sized gemstone infused with an aura of immense power. Its location is no longer a mystery.
The artifact rests within the grasp of a vampire known only as Kasia. How she came to possess the Moonstone remains unknown, but the message makes one thing clear: approaching her directly would mean courting danger. Kasia does not relinquish her hold without a fight. Yet the opportunity presents itself, she intends to bring the Moonstone here, to this very lounge, offering it to the Golden Shadow for auction. The texts warn that time is short; soon, members of the Golden Shadow and rival factions alike will begin to arrive, staking their claims with steely gazes and sharpened intent. The chance to seize the artifact draws closer.
As if on cue, the distant hum of engines grows louder. Tires hiss against pavement, headlights flicker beyond windows. The night outside stirs with the approach of unseen players converging upon the Starlight Lounge.
As the vehicles approach, Keith just shoves his hands into his gaudy, ratty, and all kinds of other poor adjectives regarding its description... Eye sore? A slight against the fashion world? Whatever the case, he tucks his hands into his pockets, looking to Juniper for guidance in this.
As the vehicles approach, Keith just shoves his hands into his gaudy, ratty, and all kinds of other poor adjectives regarding its description... Eye sore? A slight against the fashion world? Whatever the case, he tucks his hands into his pockets of his TRENCHCOAT, looking to Juniper for guidance in this. (fixed)
"What are the chances we can pull an ol' switcheroo on this thing huh?" Juniper asks Keith in a distracted manner, chewing on her lip. "I found some old inventory in the office of the previous owner. Some uncut gems. If we could make sure the winner goes home with the wrong thing or, uh, bids on the wrong thing even maybe..." She looks again at Keith in his glory as if trying to place him where he might be best. "Maintenance? Security? Hmmm..."
Rubbing his hands together eagerly as he is being including in the heist of a plan, Keith gives off a broad, doofy smile he does, "Oooh, I am good at fixin' stuff."
The distant hum of engines swells into a chorus of arrivals. One by one, figures step through the lounges doors. Men and women alike, their attire sharp and elegant, each clad in black as though bound by silent decree. Jewelry glints at collars, wrists, and fingers- subtle golden daggers marking their allegiance. The air grows heavier with anticipation as they disperse among the tables, eyes glinting with purpose.
And then she arrives.
Kasia emerges from the shadows as if the night itself has given her form. Her amber eyes gleam with a predatory hunger, sharp and unwavering as they sweep the room. Long black hair cascades over her shoulders, framing her face- a portrait of ageless elegance sculpted from moonlight and shadow. A tailored coat of midnight velvet clings to her frame, its golden embroidery faintly catching the candlelight. The soft creak of leather gloves accompanies her measured steps as she cradles a small, obsidian case close to her chest. A silver crescent moon pendant rests against her collarbone, a quiet symbol of her bond with the artifact inside.
Conversations falter as she moves deeper into the room. The crowd parts instinctively, drawn aside by the unspoken weight of her presence. Reaching a central table, she places the case atop its polished surface with deliberate care. Her lips move in a whisper as she exchanges words with a nearby figure- brief, precise, and final. With a subtle nod, the figure departs, leaving Kasia to claim her seat with the poise of a monarch awaiting court.
The murmurs resume, but the atmosphere has shifted. Patrons drift closer, offering quiet greetings and reverent nods. All the while, the case remains within reach, its presence a silent invitation- and temptation. Yet, as eyes flick toward the Moonstones resting place, moments arise when its guardians gaze is elsewhere, leaving opportunity lingering just beyond the veil of candlelight and smoke.
Realization hits Keith as he sees someone and he turns pale for a moment, stepping closer to Juniper.
Realization hits Keith as he sees Kasia and he turns pale for a moment, stepping closer to Juniper.
Juniper takes the opportunity when Keith draws in closer to murmur to him under the detection of most ears in the room. And presumably, attentions are on something other than the unassuming pair that Keith and the blonde woman make tonight. "Can you distract her? A story? Nothing overt, just... tell them a Keith story." She's already looking at the obsidian case with keen interest, noting its features before she realizes she has something that very much imitates the feel, colour, and weight of the case from the materials her new bar was made of. The dim atmosphere, the sheer audacity of the move... would it be enough to try and buy enough time to slip away before it is inevitably noticed? After leaving Keith's side, leaving him to face his fears in the form of this woman, she goes to fetch this replica from a back storeroom.
Simultaneously, at the Starlight Lounge, a newly unveiled venture touched by the shadows of secret deals and the thirst for power, Juniper and Keith are plunged into a covert operation against the Golden Shadow. With the "Moonstone," a coveted artifact capable of immense power, on the line, they're forced to concoct a daring and risky strategy to outmaneuver their opponents. As the auction nears, with Kasia, a formidable vampire, at its heart, Juniper contemplates a daring switcheroo that risks everything they've worked for. With Keith's hesitant agreement to distract Kasia with one of his storied tales, the operation's success hangs by a thread. The ensemble of darkly clad figures, each a harbinger of the Golden Shadow's reach, converges on the lounge, tightening the noose around the imminent exchange. Amid the rising tension and the cloak of night edging closer, Keith and Juniper navigate the treacherous waters of Haven's supernatural underbelly, striving to secure the Moonstone for their own ends and, in doing so, directly challenge the formidable forces poised against them.
(Ritsuka's odd encounter(SRBenjamin):SRBenjamin)
[Sun Feb 23 2025]
In A tranquil bedroom
The soft glow of paper lanterns casts a gentle, warm light across the room, illuminating the delicate shoji screens that line the walls. The floor is covered in smooth tatami mats, their subtle scent blending with the faint aroma of incense. In the corner of the room, a futon is carefully laid out, its simple cotton sheets neatly folded, inviting restful sleep. Above the futon hangs a small kamidana, a household Shinto altar, where offerings of rice and salt have been placed in delicate porcelain bowls.
A katana on a katana stand has been placed down besides the tatami mats, quickly in reach for anyone sleeping and suddenly woken up.
It is dusk, about -1F(-18C) degrees, and the sky is covered by dark grey stormclouds.
(The Destined Host has discovered the existence of an ancient demonic artifact hidden somewhere in Haven. It is believed to possess the power to open a portal to the demon realm, allowing more of these entities to enter this world. The artifact is protected by a series of deadly traps and powerful protective charms. The characters must find and retrieve the artifact before the Destined Host can get their hands on it. However, they are not alone in this race against time, as the Destined Host has also sent a group of their most ruthless agents to claim the artifact. This encounter could involve solving puzzles, combat against supernatural enemies, and tense negotiation with members of the Destined Host. The players have the option to destroy the artifact, use it for their own ends, or try to find a way to use it to undermine the Destined Host's plans.)
Ritsuka smiles with a little bit of mischief when she returns to the room, looking at Takeshi "I know, I never nap in. Had a lot of work to handle today and then went on for a brief nap. Turned a little longer than I had intended, but that's what it is." She pauses, and then steps to the wardrobe, looking for some of her other items. "Has there been anything today that I've missed, Takeshi?"
Takeshi is stretching out as Ritsuka enters into the room. It seems like he had let himself in and was standing here like that was completely normal! Though, Takeshi was not known for his awareness of social convention so it might simply be that. "Ah, morning Obachan" He greets her, his phone in his hand as he scrolls in typical teenager fashion "We got work to get done today?" He asks with the tonality of a henchman asking a mob boss what crimes they'd be committing today
Takeshi would have said that in Japanese
Takeshi says "Oh, I visited Domino. We almost got in a fight. I think it's okay, though?"
It is nearly dusk in the township of Haven where the polar cold fronts never abate and well into Feburary this sleepy coastal town is experiencing sub-zero tempatures. The last vestiges of sunlight are blocked by low and ominous stormclouds that roll in fromt the ocean. As Takeshi and Ritsuka exchange some dialogue in Japanese there is a beep and a vibration from their respective phones. Should Ritsuka and Takeshi check either of their devices they would find MyHaven and other social media showing #HavenTreasure2025 trending. Apparently a sudden fervor to participate in a sketchy and never before heard of hunt for lost treasure in Haven has taken the people. There are pictures of bundled up hikers going out into the woods, in addition to postings of people roaming some of the historical sites in Haven like the Library, Townhall, and the Antler's. Where the non-supernaturals have a sudden urge to go treasure hunting and document every single moments with tiktoks, photos, and more... The supernatural community notes an uptick in out of town cults and sects in the town as if this weekend is a jamboree of interest including some sightings of Destined Host members traveling in pairs and allegedly searching for something or someone.
Takeshi looks at his phone, and the undertones of 'this is really bad because lots of non supernaturals are getting dangerously close to supernatural things and are gunna start seeing some shit' is completely lost on him. Instead, there is an excited grin "Obachan!" He calls out to Ritsuka, turning his phone to show her, practically pushing the screen into her face "There's treasure in Haven! Everyone's looking for it!" He says, glancing around before grabbing his boots, sitting fast as he starts pulling on them "We gotta get out there quick or someone else is gunna find it before us!" He tells her, a sense of urgency in his voice as he starts to lace up
There is, perhaps one of the most frustrated sighs a woman could do when Ritsuka makes one, reading through it and seeing the traces of the Destined Host. "You know, Takeshi-san- The filthy Destined Host scum is one of our biggest enemies. One of our -true- enemies, they keep doing their thing close to me and around the Tsubaki. Had one of them summon a demon from hell inside my Pharmacy a few weeks ago, then another situation with them again." She breathes in deep. "I'll have some of the scouts figure out what they're looking for, or if they can find a duo we can ambush. Should be no issue together with my protection detail. Probably yet another dumb artifact that shouldn't exist." Ah, so many experiences, but that will not make the Destined Host disappear or vanish. Instead, her gaze now switches on the app on her phone and sends the task through. "Should tell the rest of the Tsubaki to be especially protective of our turf. Not allow them to wander in."
(The Golden Shadow has started a bidding war for a rare artifact known as the "Moonstone" that is rumored to grant immense power. The artifact is currently in the possession of a notorious vampire in Haven. The characters must either outbid the Golden Shadow, steal the Moonstone before the auction, or disrupt the auction to prevent the artifact from falling into the wrong hands. They may also choose to align themselves with the Golden Shadow if the price is right.)
Making his way out to the small rose garden outside of the Starlight Lounge, Keith waves his hand in Juniper's direction with a big doofy smile on his face, "Heeeey June!"
The air in Haven clings thick with tension, heavy with the scent of rain and secrets. Juniper and Keith find themselves within the newest establishment owned by the Forged Fortune, The Starlight Lounge. However, beyond the stretch of elegance the lounge provides with its sophisticated decor and fine dining offerings, a darker pulse thrums-a heartbeat of whispered deals and unseen wagers. Amid a seemingly normal night, Juniper and Keith's phones buzz in tandem.
Any other time, that short burst of sound from the phones would be easy to ignore, but this time, it doesn't cease. It is not brief, and it seems like one message after another comes through, the buzzing's relentless assault demanding their attention. The first thing they would see on their screens is "It's happening, now." There's no name, no number to speak of. There's only the message.
Should one of them choose to open their messages and read further, they'll see that in a panic, someone has contacted the both of them regarding...an auction. "Moonstone- powerful artifact. Bidding...Golden Shadow. Find it." Each word is another text message. Whoever it is, they're very freaked out, and very adamant. One further text comes to each phone. "Go!"
While this might have some meaning to just about anyone BUT Keith, Keith just stares at his phone blankly... Look up from his phone, holding it out to Juniper, "Do you know what his means?"
Juniper is looking at her phone already, probably assuming the worst since the last slew of panicked texts. Her brows furrow as she reads and she glances to Keith next. "Alright well. Two things. One. Powerful artifacts? Elias's love language. I'd better go get it in case he tells me that he really needed it when he gets back. And even if he uses it as a paperweight, I'd rather be safe than sorry." She gives Keith a knowing grin, as if he might relate. "Two? Fuck the Golden Shadow. Let's spend some more money to drown my sorrows, huh?"
"Yea, lets spend money, frick the Golden Shadow!" Keith lets out boisterously as he starts hopping around, bobbing his head as he does, "Lets do it!"
Perhaps the person responsible for those texts takes a moment to calm down, as a brief lull settles over the airwaves. Phones remain still, offering a fleeting pause, a false sense of reprieve. Yet the silence is short-lived. The devices buzz again, this time with longer, more deliberate messages. The description unfolds in stark detail- the Moonstone, an oval, palm-sized gemstone infused with an aura of immense power. Its location is no longer a mystery.
The artifact rests within the grasp of a vampire known only as Kasia. How she came to possess the Moonstone remains unknown, but the message makes one thing clear: approaching her directly would mean courting danger. Kasia does not relinquish her hold without a fight. Yet the opportunity presents itself, she intends to bring the Moonstone here, to this very lounge, offering it to the Golden Shadow for auction. The texts warn that time is short; soon, members of the Golden Shadow and rival factions alike will begin to arrive, staking their claims with steely gazes and sharpened intent. The chance to seize the artifact draws closer.
As if on cue, the distant hum of engines grows louder. Tires hiss against pavement, headlights flicker beyond windows. The night outside stirs with the approach of unseen players converging upon the Starlight Lounge.
As the vehicles approach, Keith just shoves his hands into his gaudy, ratty, and all kinds of other poor adjectives regarding its description... Eye sore? A slight against the fashion world? Whatever the case, he tucks his hands into his pockets, looking to Juniper for guidance in this.
As the vehicles approach, Keith just shoves his hands into his gaudy, ratty, and all kinds of other poor adjectives regarding its description... Eye sore? A slight against the fashion world? Whatever the case, he tucks his hands into his pockets of his TRENCHCOAT, looking to Juniper for guidance in this. (fixed)
"What are the chances we can pull an ol' switcheroo on this thing huh?" Juniper asks Keith in a distracted manner, chewing on her lip. "I found some old inventory in the office of the previous owner. Some uncut gems. If we could make sure the winner goes home with the wrong thing or, uh, bids on the wrong thing even maybe..." She looks again at Keith in his glory as if trying to place him where he might be best. "Maintenance? Security? Hmmm..."
Rubbing his hands together eagerly as he is being including in the heist of a plan, Keith gives off a broad, doofy smile he does, "Oooh, I am good at fixin' stuff."
The distant hum of engines swells into a chorus of arrivals. One by one, figures step through the lounges doors. Men and women alike, their attire sharp and elegant, each clad in black as though bound by silent decree. Jewelry glints at collars, wrists, and fingers- subtle golden daggers marking their allegiance. The air grows heavier with anticipation as they disperse among the tables, eyes glinting with purpose.
And then she arrives.
Kasia emerges from the shadows as if the night itself has given her form. Her amber eyes gleam with a predatory hunger, sharp and unwavering as they sweep the room. Long black hair cascades over her shoulders, framing her face- a portrait of ageless elegance sculpted from moonlight and shadow. A tailored coat of midnight velvet clings to her frame, its golden embroidery faintly catching the candlelight. The soft creak of leather gloves accompanies her measured steps as she cradles a small, obsidian case close to her chest. A silver crescent moon pendant rests against her collarbone, a quiet symbol of her bond with the artifact inside.
Conversations falter as she moves deeper into the room. The crowd parts instinctively, drawn aside by the unspoken weight of her presence. Reaching a central table, she places the case atop its polished surface with deliberate care. Her lips move in a whisper as she exchanges words with a nearby figure- brief, precise, and final. With a subtle nod, the figure departs, leaving Kasia to claim her seat with the poise of a monarch awaiting court.
The murmurs resume, but the atmosphere has shifted. Patrons drift closer, offering quiet greetings and reverent nods. All the while, the case remains within reach, its presence a silent invitation- and temptation. Yet, as eyes flick toward the Moonstones resting place, moments arise when its guardians gaze is elsewhere, leaving opportunity lingering just beyond the veil of candlelight and smoke.
Realization hits Keith as he sees someone and he turns pale for a moment, stepping closer to Juniper.
Realization hits Keith as he sees Kasia and he turns pale for a moment, stepping closer to Juniper.
Juniper takes the opportunity when Keith draws in closer to murmur to him under the detection of most ears in the room. And presumably, attentions are on something other than the unassuming pair that Keith and the blonde woman make tonight. "Can you distract her? A story? Nothing overt, just... tell them a Keith story." She's already looking at the obsidian case with keen interest, noting its features before she realizes she has something that very much imitates the feel, colour, and weight of the case from the materials her new bar was made of. The dim atmosphere, the sheer audacity of the move... would it be enough to try and buy enough time to slip away before it is inevitably noticed? After leaving Keith's side, leaving him to face his fears in the form of this woman, she goes to fetch this replica from a back storeroom.