15th September, 2024; evening Clubs district; the Hunter’s Lair Inauguration @nihtegalc
Hilo hadn’t been entirely convinced the inauguration party ought to go forward as planned at first, wondering if there was something gauche in celebrating when two factions seemed to be teetering at a very precarious edge. Like most things, though, it wasn’t his call; it was Mallick’s, and whatever his personal misgivings, Hilo was nothing if not supportive of his old friend in everything.
So naturally, Hilo had been at the Hunter’s Lair early to help set up, the low buzzing of nerves neatly concealed under his stubbornly thick skin. He honestly didn’t even know what he was nervous about -- it wasn’t as if he expected the Spades to launch an all-out war while the Ace and his council were distracted with a party, of all things. Once the doors opened and the alcohol started to flow, Hilo managed to relax. Marginally, anyway. The third flagon of ale in his hand probably helped, even if it was notoriously difficult for Hilo to get properly tipsy.
Maybe being a father was making him a little bit paranoid and a little bit soft.
He’d spent time before the gathering proper to check in with the attitudes of a couple others on the council, and for the most part everyone seemed of a similar mind; tonight was a night to celebrate, and leave their looming concerns at the door. Hilo figured he could at least try and do the same.
Not having had the chance to speak with her earlier, Hilo eventually singles Fallon’s blonde head of hair out of the crowd, making his careful way over to her with an amiable smile and a nod. They’d barely been acquaintances before the council formed, but since then had developed what Hilo liked to think of as a fire-forged friendship. He also liked to think Fallon might feel the same way.
“Evening,” he greeted simply, finding an empty spot to lean his shoulder against the wall. His gaze cut back out over the gathering, admittedly pleased with the turnout. “Looking like a pretty good reception, don’t you think? In spite of things.”