The Toy Lantern
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Main article: Vienda
The Toy Lantern is a lounge, owned and operated by a wick family, the DeCassios, who have kept the club running for generations. It is a popular spot for wicks, humans and passives to spend their evenings, because it offers cheap entertainment and reasonably-priced intoxicants. Its unique atmosphere is part of its charm and the key to its success.
Located in the not-so-scenic Dives, the Toy Lantern's exterior is bold and vibrant, painted with various brash colors. A sign featuring a brightly-colored whice with a small lantern in its beak is hung over the front door. Down the stairs, another door appears in front of you, leading into the basement.
Inside, the smoky den appears cramped - the floor is almost completely conquered by braided rugs, overstuffed velvet chairs and ottomans, and tables that look as though they were rescued from a landfill - their varnished surfaces are chipped and covered in cigarette burns and mug rings. On each table, wine bottles stuck with candles are fused to the table by a waterfall of congealed wax.
The small, lowlit stage on the north side of the room is semicircular and draped with more velvet, and, when a show isn't on, obscured by a dark blue curtain embroidered with pink, purple and yellow stars. Even the ceiling and walls are full, decorated with paper lanterns, baubles and hand-painted posters.
Every night the bar showcases a local talent - singers, performers, jugglers, and, every fifth and eighth of the week, a burlesque show. During the show, chan and opium are served to the audience; the patrons drink, smoke and watch the show, often greeted by the owners themselves.