Hard Rock and Bad Blood

((Posting order will be decided one everyone has had their first post!

Current order:
Dione
ForevaYoung
ZephyrRapierre
Storm Wave
Sea Bunny
Amaris Tollkirsche

Keep in mind, from now on there will be a three day posting limit! When you want to make an oot post, please do tell us ooc at the start of your post.))


Venue description:
 
The concert hall exists of a large stage in the front. There’s a small catwalk where singers and guitarists can go to get closer to their audience. There’s a balcony in the back offering space to about 5000 people. The main floor has room for over 8000 people. In this concert, the balcony will be closed off, but will still offer ways for our antagonist to set up their schemes.
 
There’s a complicated system of wires, lights and speakers so the music is equally spread through the hall and all people in the audience can get the full experience.
 


The concert and genre:
 
Cryptonex is an alternative metal/heavy metal/hard rock band. They cover some songs, but mostly write their own. 


Members:
Tony: Drummer (bear)
Cayenne: Lead vocalist and rhtyhm guitarist (antelope)
Sophia: Back-up vocalist and bassist (fennec)
Sam: Lead guitarist (hound)
 


Introduction post:
 
Some people like to stay at home. Alone with a good book and a glass of wine of a good cup of coffee. Others love going out clubbing, or going to the cinema with friends. Then there’s also the people who will totally want to rock out at a festival or concert. The latter is the case with the Friday night which you are to read about.
 
It was not too long before the concert would start. The members of Cryptonex had only just started to round up their last meet and greet and the VIPs were waiting in the lobby to be escorted back to the concert hall to get to their reserved spots, close to the stage, in the corner between the main stage and the catwalk, on one’s left-hand side.
 
“Alright guys, thanks so much for coming here! It was lovely meeting you all!” A sing-song-y voice spoke and the woman’s voice bounced against the nearly-empty lobby’s walls. “Wasn’t it fun, Tony?” The source of the voice appeared from behind the corner, followed by the drummer of her band. “Oh definitely, you are all amazing people!” Tony’s comment was directed to all the VIPs standing in front of him. “Can’t wait to perform for y’all!”

The security guards guided the VIPs to their designated places and the band members retreated back into their own rooms backstage, to get the final preparations done for the big show. The pre-program would start any time soon, so it would be a matter of time before the main act would have to show up and rock the building. “YO! SAM!” The female voice sounded again. A grey hound turned around and looked at the source of the sound. “’Sup?” The hound replied. “You got all the settings right?” “Yeah yeah, got ‘em all fixed up for ya.” The man stumbled away to get a cup of coffee before he also would have to go on stage.
 
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Half an hour later the noise of an applauding audience managed to get through to the band and they all simultaneously jumped out of their seats. It was time. “Alright, you ready?” Sophia smiled and Tony and Sam nodded. “Let’s go!” When the band went on stage, the noise was immense. The crowd was excited and so were the members. “HELLO EVERYBODY!”
 

After a minute people started to calm down. “Hello everyone and welcome to Cryptonex! My name is Cayenne and I’m happy to introduce to you my fellow musicians and great friends! Tony!” The bear walked to the drum set located on the round part of the catwalk-like appendage of the stage, and played a short, improvised bit. “Sam!” He walked up to the front of the stage, still on the main part and he too played a short improv solo. “And finally Sophia!” The fennec took the microphone from Cayenne and smiled before shouting “WHO’S READY TO ROCK!?”

((I was supposed to post, but then I got distracted and had stuff throw itself in front of me and AAAA. Its okay, it is done!" Muhahahaha))

Ahh, the smell of a concert. It was something many grew accustomed to, and it brought on waves of adrenaline to the many attendees amongst the crowd, as seen by the many mosh pits that had started even before the music had. It wasn't a smell that could be described other than anticipation and excitement combined into a form that overtakes ones senses, sort of like dopamine. 

Regardless, it was tantalising. At least, it was to the light grey rabbit whom had just stepped inside the large arena-like place. Trademark glasses tucked safely in their case at home and replaced with contacts, Malakai Lerato was more than ready to experience his first concert. Music was a massive influence in his life. He couldn't quite understand why, but it was like the melodies called to him, like they spoke in a voice only he could truly hear and understand. 

Donning a hooded top with Cryptonex on the front in a bold, gothic font, and a pair of dark grey baggy jeans, he felt ready. He managed to make his way through the crowd of people to find a place that was quite near the front, he could even touch the stage the band members would be standing on! 

A slight sadness took him for but a moment however, as he remembered that he didn't actually have anyone to share this night with. His girlfriend couldn't make it, and his workmate ended up covering a shift for someone who didn't turn up. He couldn't really imagine Yuki enjoying such music, even if she said she would have been happy to go with him in the first place.

Malakai shook off his thoughts briskly. He was here now, and there was not going back. He booked the night off for this reason, and to him it was money well spent. He would just need to take a lot of photos, and even try and video chat with Felicia if the chance came about that her favourite song came on by them. She was crazy about 'Void', and every now and then he would meet her and she would have it on repeat on her music playlist She loved that one the most, so it was the least he could do for her.
Managing to squeeze his way through, The grey bunny stood and waited patiently while the rest of the area quickly began filling out, the sounds of echoed clapping ringing in his sensitive, mismatched ears. It was nearly time.

((Since no one claimed antagonist, I'll be taking that spot. This needs an evil phrase...
"No refunds."))

"Alright, one last check-up." Mumbled a hooded snake with blue markings on his face right besides the door leading to the sea of Criptonex fans. He wasn't one of them. Oh no, his plan would ruin everyone's night if it was put into motion.

He was tasked with the vague mission of "kidnapping one of the band members of Criptonex in a spectacular way". He was already paid half the generous price of this service and the other half would be his as soon as he delivered "the merchandise". The employer didn't want to reveal his name or intentions, but no one orders a kidnapping if it isn't either personal or very profitable. And it seemed that the first case was more likely.

Anyway, a job's a job. So he assisted to the concert disguised as just another spectator, with hoodie, scarf, hat, wide trousers and sneakers, all with the band's logo and/or name. If needed, he had a bag with various snacks and drinks that concealed a uniform of the concert's security team along with the typical sunglasses underneath the unhealthy pile.

Since he was a man with a long history record in many crimes across many of his false names, he had to make a new one for this task. Dan Greenwood. Simple and common. Also, to avoid anyone identifying him by his black scales and blue triangle mark on one of his eyes, he painted over the figure a yellow crescent moon that covered half of his face. Easily removable by applying water. And a green wig below the hat, for good measure.

Luckily for him, the guards left a nearby place empty and lowly-guarded. A big balcony where he had prepared a real showstopper. It took some favors for supplies and a bit of handcrafting, but it's all set. All he had to do was to use his disposable phone to call a certain number that would trigger the start of his scheme. He always preferred to go unnoticed but the few details the message had was to make it "spectacular". Guess he (or she) will be watching.

Going through his elaborate plan in his mind one last time, he ventured into the crowd, effectively taking a spot in the middle. Later, he would have to move somewhere safer, but right now, it was better to wait for the band to, at least, complete one of their songs. For now, he would try to imitate the behavior of the people around him. He never cared about music bands before but if money's in the way...

Hoodies seemed to be the dominant fashion trend, interspersed between the occasional classic metalhead in their studded leather jackets, proudly displaying the emblems of other bands in their repertoire. Yet another figure in his hooded sweatshirt passed through the crowd with his own motives. His tawny, striped tail swept behind him as he coolly made his way through the loud throng of fans, most of them very clearly reflecting the various facets of the rock and punk subculture.

Yet, if one were to offer the young raccoon more than a cursory glance, he would seem slightly out of place. His tan carpenter pants had their pockets filled to the brim with markers of some sort, and his dull red sweatshirt was a far cry from the typical blacks and greys the metal genre preferred. No, something about this youth didn't fit into his surroundings. And almost as if realizing this, he slipped into an out-of-the-way recess to collect himself.

Okay Scratch, just cool it. He thought to himself as he casually leaned up against the wall, his hands slipping into his pockets as he calmly counted and re-counted the items he had brought with him. Its easy. You just gotta duck security long enough to get to the spot, leave your tag where everyone will see it, and then just slip out unnoticed.

Yes, in theory it was easy, but the raccoon had had some of his most perfect plans ruined before. He eyeballed the roped-off stairwell to the balcony seats at the end of the concert hall, guarded by a single bored and underpaid-looking security member.

Now you just gotta figure out how to get up there...

Loud ringing filled the ears of a VIP member as the crowed roared with excitement and anticipation. Seeing the band step out onto the stage, the skunk's heart pounded like a thousand drums. He couldn't help but to shout in elation along with the crowd while pumping his fist in the air to further convey his enthusiasm.

He was an odd character, for sure. Standing out like a candle amongst the darkness. His vibrantly colored clothing made it look as though he was more suited for a rave than a hard rock concert. Even the style contrasted with the typical metalhead: A lab coat of sorts with rolled-up sleeves, a loose necktie, pants, boots, fingerless gloves, a nifty-looking belt, and a... gas mask?

Yes, he was definitely odd, and even though the mask was far more questionable than anything else he had on, it wouldn't take those around him long to understand why he wore it. There was an overbearing stench of perfume that would make anyone's nose burn whether they were sensitive to the fragrance or not. It was as though he had bathed in it before coming to the event. Despite his efforts, it didn't completely mask the foul smell emitting from his body. Though, it was definitely much better than having to deal with the odor on it's own. However, one would think a person could be rather noseblind to their own reek, especially if they've been exposed to it for an extended period of time. Was this really the reason he wore that mask?

Fume had already become quite a notable resident in the city. Not only could anyone recognize his stench or recognize him from his stench, but he could be easily found at any major musical event. He has never been known to miss a concert, (music) battle, or any sort of performance where music is key, and he most certainly wasn't going to miss this.

He let out another shout as the band got ready to preform, jumping up and down like a hyperactive child. Not once did his attention wander from the stage. He was obviously excited, maybe even more-so than the rest of the audience.

((Please check the first post in this thread, I did a small update. It's all in the ooc part!))

The surge of excitement went through the crowd like a tidal wave. Loud screams emerged from them in anticipation for the start of the concert. The members of the band waved and when the time was just right, they started playing. "ALRIGHT LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THIS IS YOUR OPENING FOR TONIGHT: FIIIIIIIIIIRE!" 

Cayenne stretched the 'i' and while still talking, Tony started to drum. This was it. The night had officially started and began with a roar from the electric guitars. Sophia and Cayenne danced and jumped all over the stage, along with Sam. Tony was stuck in one place because of his instrument but he tried to be as involved with the crowd as possible. 

When Sam had to play his solo, Cayenne and Sophia stepped to the front of the stage, leaning down to high-five their fans and really make contact with them. The antelope's gaze moved through the crowd, searching for people she would think fit for her next idea. The band had talked through this plan before coming on stage and they were all very excited.

Close to the stage, Sophia had noticed a rabbit girl, laced with what looked like spiderwebs, jumping up and down excitedly. She grabbed her hand and pulled her up to the stage. "Hey there!" At that same moment, Cayenne grabbed the hand of another rabbit, this time a man and pulled him up the stage as well. 

Sam's solo had just ended by then and the girls could continue singing and playing the bass and guitar until the song had ended. A minute later the last few notes of the song played. Cayenne grabbed the two rabbits by their shoulders and took them with her to the very end of the catwalk like appendage of the stage. 

"Hi there you two~ Welcome to our beautiful stage, surrounded by all these beautiful people! You might be wondering, 'why am I up here?' 'what am I doing here?'. WELL! Our Tony and I were talking about this, and Sam and Sophia totes agreed. The two of you, get to sing in our next song!"

[ltr]The drumming rhythm had begun. The reverberations rumbled in Malakai's sensitive ears as he closed his chocolate eyes to feel the beat vibrate through him. It was amazing. Everything was brilliant so far, and the concert had only begun. He was beyond ecstatic where he was standing, and as soon as the loud rifting began with the guitars, he got major goose-flesh running up his arms. How there were those who didn't have at least a respect for metal, he never knew.[/ltr]

The grey bunny began bobbing his head to the opening music, his normally floppy hair fixed into a black spiked mohawk for the night with a clever mix of hair wax and hair spray. He was glad to be taller, otherwise his hair may have taken someone's eye out if he turned at the wrong time, and he didn’t want that.

[ltr]Raising his hands to cheer, the next thing he knew, one of his hands was being tugged at, and before he could comprehend what was even going on, he found himself on the very stage he worked so hard to stay in front of. The grey bunny's eyes shrunk when he came face to face with Cayenne, the lead singer who greeted him in a sing-song voice once she let go of him. He froze for a moment, and turned slowly to the massive waves of people screaming and yelling, each expressing their jubilation at even just being in this arena. Malakai scanned the crowd from the now higher point, and couldn’t believe the amount of dark clothing that just merged into one giant mass. He spotted a single person in a VIP area with the opposite of everyone else, and again with one or two others in the crowd.[/ltr]

Being up here on this platform finally hit him, and his ears fell back. Why was he even here? Just as he was about to ask, he saw another rabbit, a female light green one to be exact be pushed in the direction of the middle of the stage.  

Wait, what?! They were going to sing? 
Malakai felt his embarrassment begin to rise as his breathing began to quicken. The last time he sang in front of someone...

In his mind, the monotone male knew he could do the job, and that his voice was fine, but was it possible to do it in front of so many people? He felt so shy all of a sudden, which was very unlike him. All he could muster the strength to do was simply nod silently as he glanced over at the platformed rabbit girl. How likely was it that both band members were going to pull up two Mobians of the same species anyway? That thought brought somewhat of a smile to his face.

It took him some time to get used to the rhythm of the music and the bouncing spectators made him feel awkward. But, if everyone was doing it, he had do it too. So he tried to imitate the behavior around him. Luckily, he didn't stand out too much.

Songs weren't of his liking, he preferred the music without a voice to explain it's meaning so anyone could came up with it's own idea. But this wasn't bad music either. Just, not of his style. Not that he usually cares about music either...

It was all good until, for some reason, the band decided to let people on the stage. He froze for a second there, mildly annoyed. Were they allowed to do that? If he knew that would happen, he would've tried to get selected somehow since it could give him quite the juicy opportunity. But now, it became a problem. His plans didn't involve more than four people on the stage. Guess he would have to be careful with them or wait for them to leave the stage.

Trying not to show his annoyed face, he recomposed himself, faked cheerfulness and continued following the overall behavior of the wild mass. He never liked to plan things this far ahead when other people got involved. It usually meant he would have to bend his planning according to the situation. He never liked to do that. With guards, he could easily read a pattern in their movements and pass undetected without a worry. Slide through camera's blind spots. Exploit the schedule. The usual.

This was very different, but with so much money on play, he couldn't just let it go. He had to kidnap at least one band member and make a spectacle out of it. And this snake wasn't going home alone.

The crowd cheered even louder than before, surging into the back of the music hall. Event security watched in mild confusion as some of the audience members were called up onto the stage? Seems like the pit seats had their perks after all. It was enough to send them scrambling for a moment, if only to make sure that things wouldn't get out of hand. The last thing they needed was for more of the audience to rush the stage. It was enough to get the balcony's security guard to turn his back to his post for a moment, and while he was busy surveying the scene through the auditorium doors, a streak of red fabric swept under the velvet ropes and up the stairs.

The hooded figure made his way up the stairs, peering over his shoulder to make sure he wasn't followed, while in one fluid movement, slapping a blue 'Hello my name is SCRATCH ' sticker onto the stairwell wall. He rounded the corner and crouched at the edge, peering around the corner to make sure that none of the event security guards had been posted to the balcony. Nothing. The top shelf was empty. What a sad waste of venue seating, but whatever. It would work out in his favor. He slowly reached into the side pockets of his khakis and pulled out a marker, shaking it briskly in one fist to agitate the paint. He popped the cap and primed the tip against the wall, scribbling out his signature in metallic silver paint in smooth gesture as he casually glanced around. A few artistic flourishes to make the name pop, and he moved on.

Of course, just scrawling his tag a few places wasn't going to get him much cred to his name. No, the raccoon had bigger plans, and time was running short. Still keeping his head on a swivel, he swept as quietly as a shadow along the back walls, trying his best to stay out of view as he moved towards his planned canvas: a long stretch of wall facing the direct center of the stage. He eyeballed it one more time, making sure to envision the outlines of his piece as he reached under his sweatshirt and drew out a bundle of something wrapped tightly in an old pillowcase. His eyes swept the balcony once again as he pulled out a can of spray paint and shook it to wake up the paint and aerosol. Down below, the crowd was still jumping out of their seats over what was happening. The raccoon scoffed and shook his head. This wasn't what he envisioned happening at a metal concert. He sighed and began spraying the outlines of his masterpiece on the back wall.

The sound of the music had enlivened the skunk. His elation grew, and soon his thoughts and sense of reason became clouded with an overwhelming sensation of extreme excitement. Eventually, he was thrown into a frenzy. This was something that happened to him quite often. He begun to behave wildly, frantically jumping around, twirling, and throwing his hands about. It wouldn't be much of a surprise if he accidentally struck someone nearby. If one were close enough, they might even be able to hear his muffled shouts of exhilaration. If anything, he seemed like nothing more than an insanely crazed fan. 

His eyes never strayed far from the stage for long. Seeing Cayenne and Sophia move to the front of the stage to give their audience a few high-fives, he didn't waste a single moment to spring forward and hit the palm of his hand against that of one of the band member's. His heart was racing, he couldn't have been happier at this concert. Getting a VIP ticket was worth every ring. This threw him back into another fit of excitement.

Jumping about, he seemed to be enjoying himself. That is, until he caught glimpse of two new figures on the stage. He halted almost immediately and starred up at the stage, his thoughts becoming absorbed in vexation. His heart was pounding, both due to the excitement brought on by the concert, and the growing feeling of panic that began to engulf him. He didn't understand what was happening, but he absolutely hated it when his music got an untimely interruption. He barred his teeth and clenched his hands into fists. No, wait, the lead vocalist just announced that the duo will be singing with them on stage. He couldn't help but laugh at his irrational behavior, making a near 180 in his attitude compared to how he was acting mere seconds ago. It was a bad sort of "habit". Something just really rubbed him the wrong way when his music was thrown to a sudden halt. Luckily, it didn't seem like the band's performance was being cut short here.

He huffed and starred at the two rabbits on stage. As much as he would have loved to have been pulled up there himself, he was certainly no singer. If anything, the band had done the audience a favor in not selecting him. His wretched singing voice could bring anyone to their knees, writhing in pain. Gazing up at the them, he noticed the grey furball appeared to be a little tense. In front of a crowd this size, Fume found that understandable. He couldn't help but to laugh a little under his breath. "Good luck..." He murmured, silently wishing the two success in their performance.

Rae jumped and hopped to the beat, throwing her head back and forth to the beat, thrashing a headbang before looking back to the stage. The bright lights whirred as she felt the crowd surging with excitement. Some of the crowd moved to reach and touch Cayanne's hand, and Rae surged with them. She smiled widely, loving the wild energy fro, the crowd.

Suddenly, Rae made eye contact with Sophia and she felt her body being pulled up on the stage. It wad a split second before she was on stage and suddenly she was looking at a sea of faces. The bunny's heart raced. 

"Ah!" She gasped, smiling happily before beaming to the performers on stage she joined. "Yeaaahhh!!" Her body excitedly made her shout before she spun around and looked to Cayenne, then to the male rabbit whom she recognized from earlier. She grinned.

"Oh god, no way! Hell yes!" The green rabbit smiled, excited. Rae's voice was rather aggressive, to match her personality. It was rough, but she was able to hold a note and carry a tune. Despite not having the most gentle of singing, she was still excited to work the stage and crowd with Cryptonex!! There was no way anyone was going to get Rae down tonight, it just keeps getting more and more... perfect.

"I'd be honoured! Hey, you ready?" She smiled, but noted how anxious he looked. "We've got this!" She tried to encourage him.