16323/Magic in Milan

Magic in Milan
Date of Scene:	30 May 2024
Location:	Sanctum Santorum - Third Floor
Synopsis:	Doctor Strange finds Wanda preparing to go on a night on the town, and instead takes her on a date to Milan of all places, while Wanda enlists the Sorcerer Supreme in her efforts to save Count Dracula
Cast of Characters:	Scarlet Witch, Doctor Strange

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Scarlet Witch has posed:

The sun has set to dusk about a half an hour ago, and it is set to be a very lovely evening complete with warm weather and a full set of stars overhead. The sanctum is almost still, save for the presence of Wanda Maximoff, who has found herself a reflecting mirror to model in front of. Initially she looks a bit frustrated, with the lovely purple evening gown that she's wearing. It's beautiful, yet doesn't seem to be what she's looking for. "Mnh, no. This won't do." she shakes her head and strokes her hands fluidly through the air while they illuminate with her signature scarlet power, like she is swiping a picture on a cellphone. He dress transmutes to another one, this time white, and a different style than the other one. Doesn't look like she likes that one either by the frown on her face. "No." she purses her lips.

Third time is a charm, as she manipulates the forces of probability to its finest point. The dress that transmutes is a vision of elegance and sophistication, crafted from the finest scarlet silk that shimmers with every movement. The bodice hugs the Wanda's figure perfectly, featuring intricate lace detailing and a subtle sweetheart neckline that adds a touch of timeless romance. The waistline is cinched gracefully, flowing into a full, floor-length skirt that seems to cascade like a waterfall of rich crimson hues.

The highlight of this stunning creation is the unique sash, made from the same luxurious scarlet fabric. The sash drapes gracefully over the shoulders and down the arms, attaching delicately to a loop that fit over a finger on each hand. This design creates an ethereal, almost magical effect, as if the dress and the wearer were one fluid, flowing entity. Each movement caused the sash to ripple and dance, adding an extra layer of sophistication and charm.

The back of the dress is equally enchanting, with a low-cut back adorned with a series of elegant buttons that run down to the waist. The dress is complemented by subtle, sparkling embellishments that caught the light, making the entire ensemble glow with a warm, inviting brilliance. This scarlet dress is the epitome of grace and beauty, perfect for a lady of refinement and poise.

Doctor Strange has posed:

It takes *quite* the practitioner of magic to cast without the good Doctor's notice. The sun had long since set to dusk, and Strange's meditations were mildly interrupted by Wanda's casting. As Strange exits his room and into the hallway, adorned in his usual storm blue robes, he can't help but notice Wanda Maximoff standing in front of a conjured mirror, as she transmutes her dress from purple...to white...and finally?

To the scarlet one that adorns her body now. He watches the transformation in front of him as a masterpiece of elegant design forms right in front of him. It's only when such a ethereal design is finished does Strange approach, her low-cut back may feel the warmth of a gentle touch, if she hadn't noticed his presence already.

"You look beautiful, Wanda."

The words spoken softly...as softly as one would speak to their lover.

Scarlet Witch has posed:

With the completion of the final dress, Wanda moves and checks the angles and the fitting, doing a turn to get a look at the back, "Yes, perfect!" she elates, testing out the flow and wear of the garment. She may have initially sensed his presence, though preoccupied with her attire, Wanda had neglected to speak until he does, "Why thank you, Stephen. I'm glad you approve." Wanda smiles, looking pleased with herself. "It is geared to be a rather enchanting evening. I thought I might try to get out a bit. Perhaps catch a little dancing, and a stroll under the stars. So far, by myself, which is not an issue. Every now and again, one should treat themselves."

Doctor Strange has posed:

Approve he does.

She looked as though the first blooming flower of Spring. Her radiant beauty was beyond anything that Stephen had ever seen before. There's a softness in his eyes when she smiles, when she expresses such tremendous joy. He's seen her in the pit of despair before. It's...good to see good times on her. She wishes to go out dancing?

"Well, if you're going to go out dancing, perhaps I would be a good partner. It's been a moment and my hands aren't what they used to be, but.."

Stephen smiles at her. "How about a date? Tonight? Treating ourselves, as you say?"

Scarlet Witch has posed:

Flattered initially, The Scarlet Witch's expression turned to one of mild and pleasant surprise at Stephen Strange's suggestion for a date. Her plans were simply to go out on the town by herself and see where the night would take her. So many opportunities awaited such a lovely woman on an evening like this in the city. The silk fabric shimmered with her every move, the unique sash draped gracefully over her shoulders and attaching delicately to her fingers flowing.

She turned her head to look back at him, quirking a brow. "Really?" she asked. Her expression then melted into a smile. "I couldn't refuse such an offer, not that I'd want to. A date sounds fantastic. I was thinking perhaps Paris, or Milan, maybe even Greece. I thought about choosing randomly, but if you would like to take the lead..." She offered her hand to him, the scarlet sash flowing like a delicate stream of crimson between them.

Doctor Strange has posed:

She said yes.

Her hand extended, she softens him further with her admittance that she wouldn't refuse him. His own hand, scarred and damaged, lifts and gently takes her hand in his own, the warmth like a sparking electricity through his body as he meets her eyes, a flick of his free hand and his storm-blue robes become a fine three-piece black suit complete with white undershirt, nice watch, and excellent shoes. He couldn't help but smile as she speaks of Milan or Paris or even Greece.

"How about Greece? I hear the islands are lovely this time of year."

He gently brings her knuckles to his lips, as though to press a gentle kiss there if she might allow, all while his hand gestures in a swirl, creating a swirling portal of eldritch energy and sparks.

Scarlet Witch has posed:

Wanda's heart flutters as Stephen's hand, roughened by his many battles, envelops her own with a surprising tenderness. The touch sends anticipation down her spine, mingling with the warmth that his proximity always kindles within her. As he meets her gaze, she sees the depth of his sincerity reflected in his eyes, a softness that contrasts beautifully with his usually stoic demeanor.

When his storm-blue robes transform into a perfectly tailored black suit with a flick of his wrist, Wanda smiles in admiration. The transformation is seamless, highlighting his elegance and the air of sophistication that always surrounds him. She lets out a soft, appreciative sigh, her smile growing as she nods at his suggestion. "Greece sounds absolutely enchanting. The islands under the stars, the soft whispers of the waves... it's perfect."

As Stephen lifts her hand to his lips, Wanda feels her breath catch. The gesture is old-fashioned, yet it stirs something deep within her, a romanticism she rarely allows herself to indulge in. The gentle press of his lips against her knuckles sends a wave of warmth through her, and she can't help but blush slightly, her eyes never leaving his.

The swirling portal of eldritch energy materializes beside them, casting flickering shadows across the room and illuminating their faces with an otherworldly glow. Wanda glances at the portal, then back at Stephen, her excitement palpable. "Shall we?" she asks softly, her voice filled with anticipation. "An evening in Greece, just the two of us... it sounds like a dream."

Her free hand lightly touches the edge of the portal, feeling the energy coursing through it. "Thank you, Stephen," she murmurs, her voice tender. "For making this evening magical." She steps closer, ready to embark on this enchanting journey with him, her heart full of hope and excitement for the night ahead.

Doctor Strange has posed:

And together....they connect.

"I know the perfect place."

Stephen's smile slowly grows upon the sight of her, softening in the face of her warmth. Her blush is a sight to behold as that pink flush races across her cheeks, the flickering light of the portal casting them in an otherworldly glow. This would be a night to remember, Strange had thought...it would be the perfect evening for both of them. "Then I'm happy to ensure that this dream comes true." He gives her hand a gentle squeeze and as she stepped closer, he began to move through the portal with Wanda in tow.

When they emerge? They step onto the island of Santorini, the white buildings and blue roofs illuminated by the orange-casted light of the sunset. The once-active volcanic island now of such beautiful scenery and life and few could dare compare. People move through the streets as a grand celebration is occurring. No doubt someone has gotten married or perhaps one of their own has achieved a great feat.

Scarlet Witch has posed:

As they step through the portal, Wanda feels the exhilarating sensation of traversing through space and time, her hand firmly held in Stephen's. Emerging on the other side, her eyes widen in awe at the breathtaking sight before her. The island of Santorini unfurls like a dreamscape, its white buildings and blue roofs bathed in the warm, golden hues of the setting sun. The air is filled with the fragrant scent of blooming flowers and the distant sound of joyful music, hinting at the celebration taking place.

Wanda's heart swells with emotion as she takes in the vibrant scene. The picturesque setting is almost surreal, each detail more enchanting than the last. She turns to Stephen, her eyes shimmering with gratitude and affection. "It's perfect, Stephen. Absolutely perfect," she murmurs, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. The soft blush that had colored her cheeks deepens, the romantic ambiance amplifying her feelings.

Walking hand in hand through the bustling streets, Wanda can feel the energy of the celebration around them. Laughter and music fill the air, mingling with the clinking of glasses and the happy chatter of the locals. The atmosphere is infectious, and Wanda can't help but smile, feeling a sense of peace and happiness she hasn't experienced in a long time. She looks up at Stephen, her heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and affection. "Thank you for this, Stephen. For making this evening so magical," she says softly, her fingers intertwining with his.

The celebration seems to welcome them into its fold, the vibrant colors and lively sounds creating a tapestry of joy and festivity. Wanda's dress shimmers in the twilight, the scarlet fabric catching the light and reflecting it back in dazzling patterns. She feels like she is part of the enchantment, her every movement adding to the magic of the night. As they continue to explore the island, she feels a deeper connection to Stephen, their shared experience weaving a new chapter in their story. This night, under the Santorini sky, feels like the beginning of something truly special.

Yet, amidst the joy and the enchanting surroundings, a shadow from the past lingers in her mind. She recalls her encounter with Count Dracula, the weight of the promise she made to him pressing against her consciousness. Wanda's expression shifts subtly, a flicker of concern mingling with her happiness. She takes a deep breath and turns to Stephen, her eyes earnest.

"Stephen, there's something I need to talk to you about," she begins, her voice soft but serious. "Just the other night, I had an encounter with Count Dracula at an art gallery. The exchange was rather pleasant. He shared with me his desire to be freed from his curse, to have his soul restored. It's a noble cause, and I promised to help him. But I can't do it alone." She pauses, searching his face for understanding. "Will you help me in this, Stephen? I told him I would try to round up powerful and knowledgeable mystics to try and find a way to lift Dracula's curse and return his soul?"

Her plea hangs in the air, a poignant contrast to the festive atmosphere around them. Wanda's eyes are filled with hope and determination, her hand still holding his as she awaits his response, the future of her promise to Dracula resting in his capable hands.

Doctor Strange has posed:

Wanda's firm grip on Stephen's hand is not repelled or pushed away. In fact, she'll feel his fingers tighten around her own even as they pass through time and space. When they arrive on the other side and that beautiful sight of the Santorini islands come into view, Stephen's gaze softens as he looks at the most beautiful sunset in the world...but that is nothing in comparison to the woman who stands beside him, her eyes alight with curiosity and warmth around her, even as her scarlet dress hovers around her as though in a constant dance. When she looks upon him, there's gratitude and affection in her eyes...a feeling mirrored in Stephen's own dark hues as he regards her with a complete, deep fondness.

"I'm glad, Wanda." His thumb brushes the back of her hand affectionately. "If you ask me? This was long overdo." He winks at her, and together, they walk through the streets of the infectious atmosphere as plates are shattered against the ground amongst cries of 'OPA!' and wines are indulged, people dance even in the streets, some without the comfort of shoes. And yet, they move together...and Stephen's cheeks darken when he feels her fingers intertwine with his own. It connects them, it binds them in a way. "Anything for you, Wanda." He tells her with a kindness in his eyes. Though as they walk, he notices how her dress shimmers in the twilight, like sparkling stars in it's dazzling patterns.

"You have no idea how beautiful you are." He remarks to her in a soft tone of voice, yet as they move, and as their connection grows, she tells him something important to her. "What's wrong?" He asks, his voice tinged with worry and concern. She speaks to him of Dracula, that infernal creature who has been both friend and thorn for as long as Strange has known him. Wanda shares her heart, telling him that she wishes to help him free him from his curse.

There's a moment of silence from Strange as he slows to a stop, meeting her eyes as he sighed softly. "To return a soul is no small feat, especially from the one who would have it. I warn you to be careful, Wanda. Dracula has a long history of manipulating beautiful women." He meets her eyes then, softening them, perhaps against his better wisdom.

"But...while I cannot guarantee success...I promise to help."

Scarlet Witch has posed:

Wanda feels a surge of warmth as Stephen's grip tightens around her hand, their connection deepening with each step they take together. The sight of Santorini's picturesque beauty, with its white buildings and blue roofs bathed in the golden hues of the setting sun, fills her with a sense of awe. Yet, the magic of the moment pales in comparison to the man beside her, his gaze filled with affection and admiration.

As they walk through the bustling streets, the vibrant celebration around them adds a lively backdrop to their intimate conversation. The cries of "OPA!" and the sound of shattering plates blend with the joyous laughter of the locals brings laughter to her lips. The infectious energy of the celebration seeps into Wanda's heart, her steps light and graceful. Her scarlet dress dances with every movement, shimmering like the stars in the twilight, drawing appreciative glances from passersby.

Wanda chuckles softly at Stephen's words, nodding in agreement. "Yes, Stephen, this is long overdue," she says with a smile. "And I wouldn't want to be here with anyone else but you." She feels the warmth of his thumb brushing the back of her hand, the gesture intimate and comforting. "Thank you for the compliments," she continues, her eyes twinkling with genuine appreciation. "You yourself are rather dashing. That suit suits you perfectly, and I believe people agree." Wanda gestures to a group of young local ladies giggling and whispering to each other about him while blushing.

Her heart swells with happiness as they continue to stroll through the streets, Stephen's kind words making her feel cherished and valued.

"I'm very vigilant with Count Dracula, always keeping in mind the monster he has become because of his curse," Wanda reassures, her voice steady. "But I believe that even he deserves redemption. At one time, he was a human who had a soul, and the curse persists because that soul was lost. It's my theory that the key to discovering a cure is to locate and re-install his soul."

A sense of relief washes over Wanda as she squeezes Stephen's hand once more, her gratitude evident. "Thank you, Stephen. With your help, I feel more hopeful about this endeavor. Together I believe we will eventually we will succeed." Which reminds her of something. "It sort of correlates with a guest that dropped by just before my encounter with Dracula. Of all people, Superman sought me out, asking about the ins and outs of immortality. It was a rather interesting discussion."

Wanda leans closer, her voice filled with determination and affection. "So tell me something. I'm curious as to what young Stephen Strange was like."

Doctor Strange has posed:They move together through the streets. Even Stephen, in all of his serious weight-of-the-world demeanor that often weighs on his shoulders, glances to the beautiful Wanda Maximoff beside him, giving her the warmest smile in light of how she looks at him. How she stays near and close to him, how his thumb brushes against the back of her hand affectionately. Each step they take is a love letter, carefully penned and sent. Each unspoken word is a novel of sonnets and poems. He keeps his eyes on her in that moment. "There's no one else I could possibly be here with than you." Stephen speaks so softly to her it's almost like an admission of love.

Told that other women might find him dashing, he turns his head to look at the group of young ladies who seem to be giggling when they look upon him. "Alas, I'm already taken by the best." He turns to look at Wanda then in that moment, though hearing that she's vigilant with Dracula and is aware that the man will not be able to control his darker urges, he gives her that nod. "I trust you. I will help." He restates for her, though as that hand squeezes his own, his cheeks flare with red.

"Superman? That is a surprise...to what purpose did he seek immortality?" He questions her, though as she leans closer, Stephen rather boldly leans forward to nuzzle her nose with his own. "Young Stephen?" He tilts his head. "You wouldn't have liked him. He was arrogant, selfish, and greedy. He hadn't yet learned many much-needed lessons."

Scarlet Witch has posed:Wanda walks beside Stephen, her heart light with the joy of his company. The streets of Milan seem to glow with a romantic warmth, each step they take together feeling like a dance. She feels his thumb brush against the back of her hand, a simple gesture that speaks volumes. Each step, each glance, is a silent affirmation of the bond they share, a connection that feels as if it transcends the ordinary.

When Stephen turns to her with that warm smile, Wanda feels her heart flutter. His words, soft and almost like an admission of love, send a pleasant shiver down her spine. "There's no one else I could possibly be here with than you." She smiles back at him, her eyes shining with affection. "And there's no one else I'd rather be here with than you, Stephen."

As he glances at the giggling group of young ladies and declares himself taken, Wanda feels a surge of warmth and pride. She looks at him with a playful glint in her eye. "You're quite the charmer, Doctor Strange. I'm glad to have you all to myself."

Hearing his reassurance about Dracula, she nods, her expression serious yet grateful. "Thank you, Stephen. Your trust means the world to me. I promise to be careful." She squeezes his hand, feeling a comforting strength in his presence.

When he asks about Superman, Wanda's eyes twinkle with a mix of amusement and thoughtfulness. "He sought immortality to ensure he could always protect those he loved, but it came at a great cost. It's a reminder that even the best intentions can lead us down dark paths."

As Stephen leans forward to nuzzle her nose with his own, Wanda's heart skips a beat. The tender gesture feels intimate, a quiet declaration of the affection between them. She chuckles softly at his self-deprecating remark. "Young Stephen might have been arrogant and selfish, but the man standing beside me now is anything but. You've grown, learned, and become someone truly remarkable. And I'm grateful to share this moment with you."

She leans in closer, her lips brushing softly against his cheek. "Here's to more moments like this, Stephen. To us."

Doctor Strange has posed:The streets of Santorini or the streets of Milan or the heights of Paris...

Wherever they might go, Strange is just happy to have Wanda with him. The bond they share is such that those witnessing them can easily see the affection they have for one another as a bonded pair who have gone through more trials and tribulations together than the average people. Yet, Wanda's radiance is not without notice, such as the way her dress moves to and fro when she walks, or the flowing waves of her hair or the way she looks at him with wonder in her eyes.

What on earth did Stephen do right for her to look upon him and make such a choice? "If I am the charmer, you are easily the written word." For wherefore can the tongue draw it's strength than with the pen? Though she promises him to be careful and his nod is a careful one, drawing Wanda just a hair closer to himself if she allows.

"Immortality always has a cost. Even through my experiences as the Sorcerer Supreme, my immortality relied on defeating death...and were I to lose...the cost outweighs every benefit." Strange remarks. "I'm glad you were able to speak with him on the matter."

Then...their noses nuzzle each other. The soft gesture an intimate one and inviting further, Stephen pulls away just enough to meet her eyes as she speaks such high praises. The flush on his cheeks is a bit more apparent now as Wanda leans in and gives a little brush against his cheek.

"Here's to us." He whispers to her...and slowly, he begins to lean in, to brush her soft lips with his own in a sweet kiss.