Victorian Nocturne

Kingdom's Variety catered to a broad range of customers and, with affordable ticket rates, sought to include a varied array of entertainment. It was the same venue which, a few weeks ago, had been the setting for the Great Alfonso, accompanied by song and dance routines, before and after.

Today, however, was the turned of a gentleman known as Professor Hartigan. Not a clue as to whether he actually possessed the relevant title and qualifications, of course, but that ceased to matter for an evening's fun for the crowds.

"And of course," he continued, "for this daring feat of hypnotism, I shall require a number of volunteers... Please make yourselves known - should you accept the challenge."

[OOC: Open to all.]

By the late 19th century, public balls had fallen out of favor, with most hosted in private residences by London's elite. However, the public assembly hall retained some of its charm, in that the music was lively and attendance required no invitation. For a nominal fee, anyone could enter. That offer became more enchanting when it was a masquerade...

The Royal Oak was a two-story building. It boasted a large floor for dancing and additional rooms for cloaks, hats, and refreshments. The decor was simple, mostly dark wood and dim lighting, which was probably a blessing. A band of musicians perspired over their instruments at the head of the room.

It would've been an ordinary night, had not a mischievous serving girl stolen potions from her mistress and dumped them in two of the many punch bowls. One brew could cultivate love at first sight; The other, hate. After consumption, the effects took only minutes to appear, but lasted for twenty-four hours. It should make for an interesting evening, indeed!

[Group Thread: Open to All Characters]



[Submitted by Moderator]

Many of these venues were largely theatrical affairs. Kingdom's Variety, however, catered to a broader market than most, with ticket prices set at relatively affordable rates. On the upper level, boxes existed for discerning customers to get a good view of the stage. Down below, various tables were set with chairs around them, instead of the rows of bench-like seating reserved for more formal theatres. Over to one side of the hall, a bar was open, allowing customers to get beverages while the entertainment was on show.

This evening's treat was to be a magician, the Great Alfonso, who would be preceded and followed by song and dance routines.

Add alcohol and a pleasant air of merriment, and a good time should be had by all...


[Group Thread: Open to All Characters]

Let it not be said that London was a quiet city. Though the level and type of noise varied by neighborhood, as well as the architecture that amplified it, London's was a discordant orchestra of sound, particularly in poverty-stricken areas. On those narrow lanes, vendors hoarsely barked at strangers in a quest to hawk their wares, while organ grinders and drummers struck up songs to draw attention. Horse hooves and carriage wheels thundered on the cobblestone. Young children screeched and zigzagged between adults while mangy household pets yapped at their heels.

It did little to soothe an aching head. John's felt like a miniature blacksmith was at work between his ears. He turned into a residential street, which took him out of his way but offered a temporary respite from the chaos. He walked under two criss-crossed lines of laundry and ignored a woman who stood on her doorstep watching, a toddler on her hip.

It wasn't drink causing the headache. It was a particular kind of dehydration, which he should've taken care of hours ago, when it was dark. The night would've afforded him anonymity, but what had he done? Gone to yet another inn, drank himself stupid, and passed out in a rented room, his arm around a serving girl he intended to bite, except that she smelled like baking yeast and liniment, a peculiar combination that put him in mind of his grandmother.

He pressed a thumb and forefinger against his eyes and progressed blindly along the street.

( A Young and Foolishly Brave Explorer )

( Unable to Wait )