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Entry tags:
- !event,
- abby littman; the lovers,
- aloy; the hermit,
- altaïr ibn-la'ahad; the magician,
- anakin skywalker; judgement,
- caitlyn kiramman; strength,
- claire fraser; the empress,
- claude von riegan; the wheel of fortune,
- dante; the devil,
- diana prince; the empress,
- eddie munson; the devil,
- elrond; temperance,
- galadriel; the hierophant,
- geralt of rivia; the hanged man,
- henry creel; the hierophant,
- hilda goneril; the lovers,
- himeka sui; the fool,
- istredd; the high priestess,
- jayce talis; the magician,
- jesper fahey; the wheel of fortune,
- jo harvelle; strength,
- jonathan crane; the magician,
- julie lawry; the wheel of fortune,
- kyle; the hanged man,
- lenore; the lovers,
- lestat de lioncourt; judgement,
- lord john grey; justice,
- louis de pointe du lac; the lovers,
- lucifer; the devil,
- michael; the emperor,
- nanaue; the fool,
- norman jayden; the hermit,
- obi-wan kenobi; death,
- reno; the chariot,
- sabine; the empress,
- sephiroth; the tower,
- steve rogers; the hierophant,
- thancred waters; strength,
- viktor; death
MINI-EVENT: CODA - IC EVENT LOG
Mini-Event - Coda
Mid-April, you receive two formal invitations. They arrive separately in two distinct envelopes and do not appear to be precisely related.
◎ The first is from Solvunn, signed and sealed by the Solvunn Council. It informs the reader that on April 18th, Josselyn Creed's fate will be publicly carried out according to Solvunn's traditions with the Old Gods. The location is in neutral territory, a safe distance from the Singularity's crater. The Council expresses deep regret for the actions of one of their own and invites you to attend as an observer if you wish to find closure. Portals are provided. The proceedings will be in the morning.
◎ The second is from your respective faction. The letter is less solemn and invites you to attend a weekend gala on April 21st - 23rd. It acknowledges that recent times have been difficult and that faction officials and locals wish to repay the Summoned for their contributions. Portals to each location are provided.
Divine Judgment
In the weeks leading up to Josselyn Creed's execution, many of you were allowed to question Josselyn. Now that you've received the answers you're seeking - as much as you were able to - officials have granted you the chance to gain some closure and witness her execution.
The factions will warn the Summoned that Solvunn does not take angering the Gods lightly. Her death will not be quick and will likely be sacrificial. They advise anyone who may not have the stomach for it to remain home and enjoy the festivities at the end of the week.
The factions will warn the Summoned that Solvunn does not take angering the Gods lightly. Her death will not be quick and will likely be sacrificial. They advise anyone who may not have the stomach for it to remain home and enjoy the festivities at the end of the week.
Attending her execution is optional and open to all. New arrivals are welcome to watch...though they may not want to. All characters may skip this portion of the event.
Participants of Event #12 are still welcome to speak to Josselyn. This section will close on April 30th.
Participants of Event #12 are still welcome to speak to Josselyn. This section will close on April 30th.
Last Rites
CW: Disturbing imagery, animal death, ritualistic sacrifice, body horror.
So that all can attend, Solvunn will perform Josselyn's last rites in neutral territory. Anyone who attended the Peace Summit last year will recognize the area, though the colorful tents are gone. In their place are some plain stone benches and a temporary altar. Thick mists roll into the valley, bringing a chill to the air. As you arrive, you see Solvunn mages instructing volunteers to right certain stones as the last touches are added. Present to represent the other two factions are Jolene Sybell of Thorne and Reva Hym of the Free Cities.
The stones are arranged in spiraling circles, with twelve arches that span them. Carved into the ground beneath the arches are each of the Major Arcana. Find your matching Arcana and leave an offering if you want. You're told the gesture will appease the gods and ensure the "cleansing" is successful.
The Moon, Josselyn Creed's Arcana, has been carved into the center stone. If you share her Arcana or are The Emperor or Justice, Solvunn mages will approach and ask you to write your name in charcoal into the stone. If you bear any of the other signs, you can also do so, but you won't be asked directly.
Preparation
Soon, a hush falls over the crowd as Isar Hart comes forward with a black sheep in tow. Several Solvunn Elders flank the sheep as it's placed before the altar. They paint large winding lines and runes on its wool and face. Winifred Bordeaux turns to the crowd. She states that the wrongs born of the commune are always made right by Solvunn's hands and seeks forgiveness. The gods may cast judgment as they see fit.
Mages begin a haunting chant in an ancient tongue. With a large bone knife, Winifred kneels next to the sheep and slices its throat. As warm blood flows over the ground, it fills each etched Arcana sigil. The sigils glow a faint red upon contact, and the grass around them withers and blackens. Once fully drained, the Elders carefully skin the sheep. Its organs are placed in jars as it is hollowed out. With the skin removed, the Elders lay it on the altar and declare that those who stray from the gods must be brought back into the fold.
One of the stones vibrates, releasing Josselyn Creed into the hands of waiting Elders. As she's dragged to the altar's center, she decries Solvunn for being blind, accusing them of turning away from the truth. The old ways have long stopped serving them, she declares. The Old Gods are no longer listening.
Mages begin a haunting chant in an ancient tongue. With a large bone knife, Winifred kneels next to the sheep and slices its throat. As warm blood flows over the ground, it fills each etched Arcana sigil. The sigils glow a faint red upon contact, and the grass around them withers and blackens. Once fully drained, the Elders carefully skin the sheep. Its organs are placed in jars as it is hollowed out. With the skin removed, the Elders lay it on the altar and declare that those who stray from the gods must be brought back into the fold.
One of the stones vibrates, releasing Josselyn Creed into the hands of waiting Elders. As she's dragged to the altar's center, she decries Solvunn for being blind, accusing them of turning away from the truth. The old ways have long stopped serving them, she declares. The Old Gods are no longer listening.
Penance
Holding her in place, Rowan March places the skin of the black sheep upon her. The wool stretches outward to envelop her limbs, covering every part of her in the pelt and muffling her shouts. As each bone bends and snaps loudly in the silence to take the form of a sheep, her body collapses with anguished cries. Finally, a mass of quivering wool and human sinew is left, the sheep's face ajar on her broken skull.
The chanting reaches a crescendo, then stops abruptly. The mist thickens, swirling towards the altar. Your surroundings darken. From the gloom comes a massive bird-like silhouette. Its enormous wings shadow the sky, blocking out the sun. Though the figure's form is obscured, the dozens of vultures that descend are visible - and so is the feast that ensues.
Through the fog and shadow, you glimpse blood and flesh tearing. Slowly, the mist begins to clear as each bird takes its fill. The silhouette above withdraws. What remains before you is a pile of bones picked clean...and the recognizable head of Josselyn Creed beneath the sheep's mask, the only part of her uneaten.
The chanting reaches a crescendo, then stops abruptly. The mist thickens, swirling towards the altar. Your surroundings darken. From the gloom comes a massive bird-like silhouette. Its enormous wings shadow the sky, blocking out the sun. Though the figure's form is obscured, the dozens of vultures that descend are visible - and so is the feast that ensues.
Through the fog and shadow, you glimpse blood and flesh tearing. Slowly, the mist begins to clear as each bird takes its fill. The silhouette above withdraws. What remains before you is a pile of bones picked clean...and the recognizable head of Josselyn Creed beneath the sheep's mask, the only part of her uneaten.
Immolation
The Council allows all in attendance to confirm Josselyn's identity and her fate, ensuring that the factions and the Summoned are satisfied with the outcome. A ritual fire lights up on the altar. Her head is placed in first by one of the Elders.
The rest of her bones are in the sheepskin. No blood or flesh remains. The pelt is startlingly clean for such a gory display. You're invited to paint your Arcana on a bone and place the bone into the fire as a gesture to the gods that you've accepted the punishment they chose for her.
The atmosphere is solemn. Winifred offers her thanks on behalf of the Council for allowing Solvunn to make amends for Josseyn's misdeeds. They deeply regret this was necessary but promise they'll take steps to ensure it never happens again.
A few remain to watch her bones finish burning. You may join them if you like or return home at once. A harsh silence fills the ceremonial grounds as you step through the portal.
The rest of her bones are in the sheepskin. No blood or flesh remains. The pelt is startlingly clean for such a gory display. You're invited to paint your Arcana on a bone and place the bone into the fire as a gesture to the gods that you've accepted the punishment they chose for her.
The atmosphere is solemn. Winifred offers her thanks on behalf of the Council for allowing Solvunn to make amends for Josseyn's misdeeds. They deeply regret this was necessary but promise they'll take steps to ensure it never happens again.
A few remain to watch her bones finish burning. You may join them if you like or return home at once. A harsh silence fills the ceremonial grounds as you step through the portal.
Weekend Gala
Several days after the execution, the cities prepare for the feast and gala. On the day of, portals will open up in the main hub of each city: Castle Thorne in Thorne, the Primary Settlement in Solvunn, and Cadens in the Free Cities.
You're welcome to arrive on the first day or skip the speeches and arrive on the second day for the main dinner and event. Everyone will be sent home on the third day (April 23rd), though the factions would be happy if you'd like to volunteer to clean up and take down decorations before you go. Not to worry if you'd rather go home - they have plenty of staff and locals for the job.
Each city will provide a place for you to stay for the weekend. They'll choose their best inns for you, except Solvunn. Solvunn will offer a comfortable communal tent for all attendees to share.
You're welcome to arrive on the first day or skip the speeches and arrive on the second day for the main dinner and event. Everyone will be sent home on the third day (April 23rd), though the factions would be happy if you'd like to volunteer to clean up and take down decorations before you go. Not to worry if you'd rather go home - they have plenty of staff and locals for the job.
Each city will provide a place for you to stay for the weekend. They'll choose their best inns for you, except Solvunn. Solvunn will offer a comfortable communal tent for all attendees to share.
Thorne (Hayle)
The first evening, the King and Queen will gather guests into a grand hall at Hayle University. The King formally welcomes and expresses Thorne's gratitude for everyone's safe return. He heralds the Summoned and those involved in the terrible incident for their fortitude and bravery. The Queen follows afterward, adding that she is glad justice has been served and that they can be assured Josselyn Creed can never harm anyone again. She acknowledges the formation of the Summoned Conclave and promises Thorne will always serve those who are steadfast in their loyalty.
In a rare moment, Ambrose Rhett and the Duchess, Anastasia Rhett, can be spotted standing side by side in the background. Jolene Sybell is also present. Ambrose, however, will not be seen past the welcoming speech, returning to the Castle after.
In a rare moment, Ambrose Rhett and the Duchess, Anastasia Rhett, can be spotted standing side by side in the background. Jolene Sybell is also present. Ambrose, however, will not be seen past the welcoming speech, returning to the Castle after.
Gifts
As a resident of Thorne, you'll receive a gift bag containing:
◎ A sweet dream potion that grants the user happy dreams and a good night's sleep. A basic spell, these potions were made by schoolchildren in Hayle as a thank-you gift for the Summoned. The custom label on each bottle has your name handwritten and decorated by the kids. If you're known around the Castle, it might contain a drawing that represents your reputation - for example, a flower if you have a green thumb. They've been told a bit about the Summoned by officials and their teachers.
◎ A jade turtle that, when placed in a bowl or pool of water, is enchanted to swim around. A novel decorative piece that calls back to the giant sea turtle which came to aid you and your friends on Thorne's shores.
◎ A soothing galaxy orb that displays the starry night sky within. When placed in front of some light, it'll cast a pretty sparkle over your surroundings.
Surroundings
Located far north, Hayle is most famous for its beautiful crystalline architecture. The weather is warmer now that spring has arrived, but relatively cool with temperatures dipping at night. Vast mountains are in the distance for a breathtaking view.
Hayle bustles with vibrant energy and a diverse population. Where Castle Thorne closely follows the formal traditions of the nobility and traditional Academic Magic, Hayle is trendier with innovative spellwork, the newest designs in fashion, and a vast library of knowledge.
Hayle bustles with vibrant energy and a diverse population. Where Castle Thorne closely follows the formal traditions of the nobility and traditional Academic Magic, Hayle is trendier with innovative spellwork, the newest designs in fashion, and a vast library of knowledge.
◎ Arcana Deck Exhibit
Expensive custom-crafted Arcana decks are under glass cases like fine jewels. One notable attraction is an exhibit displaying one-of-a-kind decks designed by famous artists or enchanted by renowned mages in Thorne's history. Some boast intricately painted designs and real gold, while others use precious gems embedded in the cards themselves. One preserved deck is carved entirely on pinewood.
◎ Boutiques
Boutiques sell tailored clothes and fine jewelry that include Arcana-inspired accessories. Luxury magical tools are also available such as gold scales for weighing potion ingredients. Some bookshops specialize in signed or antique copies. The contents are nothing special, but editions are considered collectibles. Though most aren't for sale except to the wealthiest individuals, you're free to look.
◎ Makeover & Performers
Street performers occupy every corner around Hayle: stories told through illusions, musician-less instruments, and juggling acts that incorporate impressive balls of colorful light. You can get your portrait drawn by an enchanted paintbrush or volunteer for one of the illusionists to give you a temporary "makeover." The makeover will grant you one or more features of your choosing that will last 24 hours: a new hair or eye color (including unnatural shades!), translucent illusory wings (they won't get in the way), or decorative nails.
Personal shopping and styling assistance is also offered by Lenore and Natasha Romanoff.
Banquet
The banquet takes place on the second evening, held in Hayle University's finest ballroom. Decorations are delicate and elegant. The chandelier above drips with crystals and gold.
Although you'll have an assigned seat to start with, there's no need to stay where you are. Guests are encouraged to mingle and wander around. Make friends, meet new people, and introduce yourselves!
Although you'll have an assigned seat to start with, there's no need to stay where you are. Guests are encouraged to mingle and wander around. Make friends, meet new people, and introduce yourselves!
◎ Food & Drink
A formal multi-course dinner will be served throughout the night. The wine flows freely and food is abundant. Thorne is known for its exquisite cuisine, and Hayle is no different. With the harsh winter over and farmlands slowly recovering from the attack last summer, the nation is no longer struggling as much with supplies. Dishes include stuffed duck, delicate fish, rare nutty cheeses, soup, and plenty of cakes and biscuits.
◎ Entertainment
Formal entertainment involves music, dancing, and magic shows. You're welcome to take the stage yourself, of course! If you're not good at what you do, the citizens won't boo you off the stage, but you'll feel an awkward atmosphere begin to build, and word might spread about your act. The nobility in Thorne has exacting standards and a penchant for gossip.
Musical performances include original compositions on the violin and piano by Lestat de Lioncourt and elvish songs by Elrond, while Lord John Grey will recite some poetry and music. Magical displays include illusory lights featuring the Arcana signs by Istredd, flashy divination magicks channeled through a tarot deck by Urianger, and a light-based display of intricate mandalas Stephen Strange - whose third eye may be glimpsed beneath his hood when he casts his Eldritch magic.
◎ Night's End
The banquet runs late into the night, though you can leave any time. A carriage will be waiting to take you back to your inn. You can stay for one last social breakfast in the morning before returning to Castle Thorne through the portal.
Free Cities (Libertas)
The first evening, the Prime Minister will gather guests by the mosaic sculpture in the Willow Memorial Park. Prime Minister Marlo expresses her gratitude for everyone's safe return and apologizes for the atrocities that occurred under her watch. The bravery and fortitude of those involved will be remembered. Fortunately, justice has found those responsible, and the city can begin to march forward. She acknowledges the formation of the Summoned Conclave, promising that her government will make sure nothing like this ever happens again to its people. The Summoned are, of course, people of the Free Cities regardless of where they came from.
Quilleth Kaur takes the stand afterward, addressing the tragedy that struck Libertas not long ago and personally thanking the Summoned for their help in rescuing survivors and rebuilding the city. This includes the construction of the park itself, led by two of the Free Cities' longest Summoned residents. She bids everyone to enjoy the festivities. They deserve to relax and feast after a harrowing experience.
Quilleth Kaur takes the stand afterward, addressing the tragedy that struck Libertas not long ago and personally thanking the Summoned for their help in rescuing survivors and rebuilding the city. This includes the construction of the park itself, led by two of the Free Cities' longest Summoned residents. She bids everyone to enjoy the festivities. They deserve to relax and feast after a harrowing experience.
Gifts
As a resident of the Free Cities, you'll receive a gift basket containing:
◎ Tickets to a special comeback show by one of Libertas' most famous acrobatic troupes - their first since the city's destruction. The envelope includes a letter which addresses you by name and thanks you for your help. If you've made an impression on the citizens of Libertas, the letter will mention noteworthy things you've contributed, such as volunteer efforts or donations. The tickets grant you the best seats in the house and a free drink during intermission. Performances are held throughout April and May, so you'll have plenty of time to attend.
◎ A kazoo, best used to annoy your friends or heckle anyone you find disagreeable, though beware that the people of Libertas won't hesitate to brawl on the street over insults.
◎ Luxurious bath crystal balls that fizzle and give the water a beautiful shimmer. Infused with medicinal properties, they'll alleviate aching muscles and lingering pains.
Surroundings
Located far south, Libertas is most famous for its subversive attitude and colorful architecture. With winter on the way out, the weather is warm but not scorching hot as it can be in the summer. Rare spring rains have caused flowers to bloom and sprout around the desert.
Libertas is diverse and lax in social norms. Where Cadens boasts the best research and technology, Libertas' focus is on advancements in free thought, art, and knowledge. Following the art walk not long ago and the long-term portal to Libertas, some of these attitudes have filtered into Cadens.
Libertas is diverse and lax in social norms. Where Cadens boasts the best research and technology, Libertas' focus is on advancements in free thought, art, and knowledge. Following the art walk not long ago and the long-term portal to Libertas, some of these attitudes have filtered into Cadens.
◎ Artist Alleys
The collapse of the city's buildings has caused street art to greatly flourish. Winding alleyways between homes and shops contain paintings, written poetry on the walls, and musical performances. Sculptor Axn Kade, famous for his pieces made of reclaimed metal and his activism for mining safety, has added a new sculpture to the city's streets. The plaque contains a dedication to the Summoned who helped clean up the mining equipment a few months ago, having used the scrap metal gathered during that process.
◎ Gambling Halls & Brews
Rejecting government oversight, Libertas is home to several gambling halls of all types. If you have the money, you're sure to find a spot to suit you. Beware of loan sharks and play at your own risk. Taverns around Libertas are rowdy. They often have an open floor for art performances, poetry readings, and philosophical debates. Always open to new ideas, many places in Libertas host tastings for brews created using innovative flavors and techniques.
◎ Market Square
Though not as large as Aquila's market, the Libertas market square is still a sprawling maze. Anyone with something to sell will have squeezed a table or a stall into the area. Enterprising merchants will give you a demonstration of some of their products, most powered by New Magic: a comb that changes your hair color upon use, eye drops that give your irises an enchanting colorful glow, and disposable crystal accessories that take on the illusion of precious jewels for a short period - invented to undermine the value of gems. Any changes to your appearance are temporary, lasting 24 hours.
Before the feast, simple dance lessons are available from Caitlyn Kiramman.
Garden Feast
The feast takes place on the second evening, held at the Willow Memorial Park. Glowing orbs of light have been hung from the willow trees while vases made by a local potter feature flowers from the park's wildflower meadows. More details about the park are available under Locales for Libertas.
Provided by Viktor (and Jayce Talis), the center of the garden contains a revolving armillary sphere modeled after the astronomy of Abraxas, casting an atmospheric starry light over the area.
To start with, you'll pull your table number from a hat to receive your "assigned" seat, but there's no need to stay there all night. Guests are encouraged to mingle and wander around. Make friends, meet new people, and introduce yourselves!
Provided by Viktor (and Jayce Talis), the center of the garden contains a revolving armillary sphere modeled after the astronomy of Abraxas, casting an atmospheric starry light over the area.
To start with, you'll pull your table number from a hat to receive your "assigned" seat, but there's no need to stay there all night. Guests are encouraged to mingle and wander around. Make friends, meet new people, and introduce yourselves!
◎ Food & Drink
An eclectic array of dishes line a large table at the park's center. Help yourself to what you like in any order. No one will bother you if you start with dessert! Wine, ales, and hard liquors are as plentiful as the food. Dishes include grilled fish and pork, dips and spreads, puddings, sweetbread, cakes, and seasonal fruits common to the desert climate, such as figs and oranges.
◎ Entertainment
Formal entertainment involves music, dancing, and poetry. Artists have been invited to unveil new pieces or showcase old favorites. You're welcome to take the stage yourself, of course! Performers won't be judged on talent so much as passion. As long as you're creative and genuinely enjoy your craft, you'll have the support of the locals.
Jaskier will put on a lute performance, including a ballad of Spyndlveiss containing themes related to the recent disappearances. Diana Prince will recite a short portion of The Iliad, in both Ancient Greek and common. A "blade dancing" display using a painted stave by Obi-wan Kenobi will take place, as well. Finally, Hilda Goneril will draw and paint quick "fashion sketches" to commemorate everyone's style - available to both small groups and individuals.
◎ Night's End
The feast runs late into the night, though you can leave any time. A wagon is available to bring you back to your inn, but most locals prefer to walk, creating a drunken parade of people through the streets while singing cheerfully. You can stay for one last social breakfast in the morning before returning to Cadens through the portal.
Solvunn (Primary Settlement)
The first evening, the two remaining members of the Council, along with Isar Hart, address the gathered, apologizing for the sheep who strayed from their flock. They're especially disappointed with the heretical actions of a trusted community member, whose name they will no longer acknowledge. The gods have cast their judgment, and now the community can come together to heal. The Council promises the newly formed Summoned Conclave that they are vital members of the commune and that Solvunn is here to aid them in whatever they need.
Isar Hart reiterates that his position on the Council is temporary until the seat can be filled, though the Council does not give a date for when this might occur.
Isar Hart reiterates that his position on the Council is temporary until the seat can be filled, though the Council does not give a date for when this might occur.
Gifts
As a member of the Solvunn Commune, you'll receive a gift bag containing:
◎ A clay mug, handmade by children in the settlements. Each mug is customized for the individual based on what the children have managed to learn about you, painted with what they believe to be your favorite colors, flowers, patterns, or animals. How accurate the kids are about you varies depending on your interactions with them, but they've tried their best. The bottom of the mug is signed by the child who made it for you. If you run into them afterward, they might ask if you like your mug.
◎ Thick and comfortable knitted socks made from the wool of Isar Hart's sheep farm.
◎ A few sachets of herbal teas to help you get a good night's rest and restore your energy. A small thank-you note accompanies the teas, signed by Lorelai and Esmond, who are grateful for the chance to return home.
Surroundings
The southernmost of the settlements, the Secondary Settlement boasts vast sprawling farmlands and a beautiful shoreline overlooking the ocean. Skies are sunny and clear throughout the gathering. Wildflowers bloom across the flat plains, orchards are starting to bear fruit, and fish are plentiful once more.
The Secondary Settlement is sparsely populated but maintains a tight-knit community. Where the Primary Settlement is a hub for schooling, craftspeople, and artisans, the Secondary Settlement is focused on agriculture and livestock: sheep, goats, horses, and fields of crops fill the area. Many families take pride in supplying the commune with produce and materials like wool, eggs, milk, and grains.
The Secondary Settlement is sparsely populated but maintains a tight-knit community. Where the Primary Settlement is a hub for schooling, craftspeople, and artisans, the Secondary Settlement is focused on agriculture and livestock: sheep, goats, horses, and fields of crops fill the area. Many families take pride in supplying the commune with produce and materials like wool, eggs, milk, and grains.
◎ Farms & Livestock
Farms are open with fences solely to keep out any predators or pests. You're free to visit the fields and orchards. Pick apricots and cherries, pet the sheep, play with the baby goats, and gather eggs for the evening's potluck. Isar Hart will be pleased to show you his prized black sheep, whose majestic horns are greatly admired. Smaller gardens filled with flowers and herbs are also available to explore. If you'd like to put together bouquets for the evening or make flower wreaths to decorate, you can help yourself. Finally, you can fish to your heart's content in the nearby pond. Bring your catch to dinner!
◎ Shrines
After recent events, shrines around the Secondary Settlement are full of offerings to appease the gods and seek guidance. These offerings consist of animal bones, harvested fruit, and wine. You can add to the shrines if you like or simply visit them. Many shrines hum with magical energy and all previous signs of corruption over the past few weeks have faded. You can ask for blessings of health, luck, or abundance for yourself or others.
◎ Neighborly Help
Although Solvunn doesn't place much emphasis on extravagance, the evening's affair is an important one. They'd like to look their best. Members of the commune are all around the settlement to give you a hand to get ready. You can have someone style or braid your hair with ribbons, color it with natural dyes, or lend you some clothes and accessories if you don't have any. You can help them in return, as well. They're also happy to trade items with you.
Louis de Pointe du Lac will temporarily alter your clothes or appearance for the night using illusory magic.
Potluck
The potluck takes place on the second evening, held outdoors in one of the Secondary Settlement's spring meadows. Decorations are rustic and simple, consisting of fresh flowers and candles.
Mud-clay sculptures and masks are available from Nanaue, though they are not very sturdy. Nero will hand out colorful brochures.
There are no assigned seats. Tables and chairs are placed tightly together, along with natural seating created by tree stumps and boulders. You're encouraged to mingle and wander around. Though a sober hush lies over the gathering, the atmosphere is hopeful. The people of Solvunn look forward to better days.
Mud-clay sculptures and masks are available from Nanaue, though they are not very sturdy. Nero will hand out colorful brochures.
There are no assigned seats. Tables and chairs are placed tightly together, along with natural seating created by tree stumps and boulders. You're encouraged to mingle and wander around. Though a sober hush lies over the gathering, the atmosphere is hopeful. The people of Solvunn look forward to better days.
◎ Food & Drink
Solvunn's potluck feast consists of dishes and drinks brought by everyone in the commune, including members of the Council. There are hearty stews and soups, freshly baked bread, butter churned that very morning, and a variety of Solvunn's famous goat cheeses. You're invited to contribute anything you like! Simply add your dish or dessert to the table. The centerpiece of the potluck is a pig roast. Mead and ale flow freely.
Wanda Maximoff will bring sečenica, propeć (both cheese and egg savory baked goods), and traditional fruit pies of plums, cherries, sugar, almonds, and vanilla sugar. Claire Fraser will provide a unique loose-leaf herbal tea blend.
◎ Entertainment
The people of Solvunn will sing, dance, and make music together. On occasion, there are pauses for someone to take the spotlight, but overall no one's center stage for long. Instruments are passed around, and guests are encouraged to join in. Due to recent events, many songs are subdued, speaking of honoring the gods. Later in the night, stories are exchanged around the campfires. One particular folktale is told by Rowan March about Spyndlveiss, a figure who captures wayward sheep on their way between the settlements. From these lost sheep, he makes sheepskin suits for hungry wolves to wear.
Eddie Munson will hold a lively musical performance.
◎ Night's End
The potluck runs late into the night, though you can leave any time. Large tents are nearby for you to rest and spend the night. In the morning, you can join in on the communal breakfast before returning through the portal to the Primary Settlement.
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Head tilting to one side, Julie squints as she glances at him, then back to the statue. ] So it don't actually seem like it's about us. That's what I was thinkin'. Feels like the dedication is a bit of an afterthought.
[ Which, to her, feels like cheap virtue signaling, to stick a dedication on a piece that's unrelated. But then she's never been much for art anyway; maybe that's just par for the course and she doesn't know it. Still strikes her as insincere. ]
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To the remark, there's a soft shrug.]
That's one interpretation. But you also don't know how long the piece has been in the workshop for between the event it comments on and the instillation. Construction takes time. Or you can ignore the thing all together and assign it to a different point in time and place entirely.
[Alucard isn't about to be redundant with a statement like art is art, especially as he can see it going down like a lead balloon, based on the past.]
If it stirs a response, then an artist could consider that a success. And at least it's out for all to observe, rather than tucked away somewhere.
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[ She is, at least, genuinely considering what he says, but her background makes it difficult for her to grasp the more abstract meanings possible. She looks at the sculpture and sees the obvious, that it is either about drifting away, or possibly reformation of the person. But that doesn't feel like what it's been dedicated to, at least not to her -- this does not represent the Summoned to her, nor does it have anything to do with the clean-up, past the materials used. ]
It just comes off cheap, to make one thing that's not really here or there, then dedicate it to somethin' that'll get good PR behind it. If you're gonna dedicate somethin', shouldn't it like, evoke that thing? Like if you put a dedication to 9/11 on that Warhol soup can, it don't mean anythin'. It'd be different if it were just dedicated to like, Sally Jones or whatever, but to a whole group and a specific event? Not a good look.
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[None of it is meant to really have an answer. Alucard knows that half of his response would be I know it when I see it and I react, which is absolutely nonsense while still being true.
There's a smattering of phrases that go wholly over his head, being from the 1470s. He'll just assume his pokey little fangs help make a few things clear.]
I do think that the abstraction makes it harder, especially if you didn't know the significance of the material. Personally, without the plaque I think it has more interpretation. You can look at the formation from the top to the bottom or in reverse, and the meaning changes. With the change, it lets people project more of themselves into what they're seeing.
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The dedication is what she thinks is meaningless, she decides. It cheapens any other possible meaning by trying to hitch a wagon to a much larger, more spotlit topic. ]
I guess it feels sort of... like, commercial to me. Like somethin' you'd buy in a fancy home decor place and stick in an empty space on a bookcase to look good. But big. [ She decides that's why she doesn't care for it. Because it doesn't feel unique or new or poignant, like it has something to really say. Still, her nose wrinkles. ] I don't know. Art wasn't a very important thing where I'm from. Least not art like this. We just had paintings of farms and animals and stuff in the only art museum anywhere near where I lived.
[ And it wasn't as if she'd gone out of her way to take in the real art once she made it to Vegas. So maybe she just sounds like an asshole. ]
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[Alucard realizes he'll need to address that comment in a few moments, but as it is, he'll let Julie do the inquiry if she wants to. It does illuminate her perspective though, especially if art is so available that it has that explicit a commercial element within it. That's for Alucard to think about.]
I'll admit, it isn't what I might want associated with this particular...whatever the point of this particular get together is. But I don't mind having new things to encounter in the streets either.
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No, but I think there's still a lot of... uh, I guess you could call it class segregation? When it comes to art. Like, rich fancy people have real, unique art. Old or really abstract stuff that costs stupid money. Regular folks just have prints and like, stuff you'd find at a craft fair or somethin', by someone who does it as a hobby or whatever. Or shit you just buy from a store, but it's more like a decoration than art that's meant to mean somethin'.
[ This strikes her as something that's meant to have meaning, but has failed to do so in a way that actually takes a stand. Mass production appeal with a slapdash story on the plaque. Which feels hollow for her.
She snorts a little. ] I think the point is just to keep us from thinkin' they don't care at all about what happened. Summoned gettin' snatched right off the street in the middle of the city. Looks real shit for them if that goes down and they can't even toss us a deli platter as an apology. Whatever.
[ This is actually a situation where she does have a little more goodwill toward the Cities' leadership than normal. It wasn't their fault -- they could have done more to protect both the Summoned and their own citizens, but who expects a fringe religious group from the most peaceful nation to suddenly become fanatical terrorists? It would be like trying to predict an attack from Swedish Wiccans. The idea of a party is sort of dismissive, but it is what it is. You can only do so much in three weeks.
With a sigh, she tilts her head to the other side. ] So much of the art here is just plain metal, though. It feels, um. Dull. The only art I ever saw in person that I really liked was by this super famous glass artist. Chooley, maybe? Somethin' like that. There was a museum in the nearest medium-sized city, where I'm from. Wichita. An hour bus ride from my hometown. But they took us there once in school, and that museum had a permanent piece from his. It was beautiful. There was another one of his pieces in a fancy hotel I went to, years later, too. Huge, bright colored pieces of glass all hangin' from the ceilin', until you could only see art above. I'd like to see somethin' like that again.
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[The statement is dry. Not flippant, it's meant to actually be funny. If it lands is entirely beyond Alucard's control, and he hopes it drives the point home. He can understand what's being said, but progress, even with classism involved, is still infinitely better than Wallachia has in his own time and place.]
With that said, I think I understand the point. The further from wealth one gets, the less personal the artistic work becomes, correct? Things are not commissioned, but just produced without thought.
[There's a little nod of agreement with that snort. It is hard for Alucard to actually disagree, and a short, sharp little laugh comes out with the deli platter line. There's an acidity on display that needs appreciation.] It's worse that they couldn't do it for their own people, never mind us. What has bothered me most was I heard some rumor of disappearances back in December, when that nonsense on the ship was happening. Resources weren't allocated and...then this. But then, I don't think any of us expected to be dealing with deities.
[Alucard would appreciate if everyone everywhere around him just left religion alone for a second, thank you.
The entire thing feels like someone discovering how they articulate beauty in objects. Alucard knows it was not on purpose, and he's grateful for it. At the word dull, he almost says something, but the dhampir is glad he doesn't. What Julie describes makes him smile. Small and wistful and a little sad that he can't see the piece, and there's ideas in that.]
That sounds like a lovely work to see. And a much more interesting application of colored and stained glasses than what I am used to. I imagine that it's possible to recreate.
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[ It's more complicated than that and Julie is aware of it, but she doesn't have the vocabulary to explain the pervasiveness of art on the whole in the twentieth century. She has an American public school graduate's understanding of art, which is mostly how to take rubbings of leaves, how to make pinch pots, and a knowledge of history's most famous artists to date.
Her eyebrows raise and she shrugs. Quite frankly, Julie doesn't give a shit about native Abraxans -- she has come to believe that they are a faceless mass beneath the Summoned, unable to connect to the Singularity in the same way. She doesn't hold it against them; she knows that she would have been considered the equivalent back home. But also, if the cult was capable of kidnapping people famous by virtue of simple existence, in a constant sort of spotlight, then of course they'd had no trouble kidnapping nobodies. ] I don't know. Maybe it woulda paid off, maybe not. I don't like to look at what coulda been. But it was kinda like... a hate crime? In that we were bein' targeted specifically. So they have to, y'know, pay lip service to us. It's just politics. Which is gross.
[ She does not care about Abraxan politics beyond open war. She does not want to be involved in them, and she is forced to be simply because she was brought to this world.
It strikes her as a bit funny. Julie had not thought about Chihuly pieces in years, either of them. One seen when she a teenager in school, the other seen in the wake of the end of the world, where grand art pieces were left abandoned by the nearly vanished human race. Vegas had huge amounts of art to see, but the glass in the Bellagio had been what stuck with her most. She smiles, somewhat nostalgic. ]
I'd think so. It was made of like, big glass flowers, all sort of layered 'til there wasn't any gaps between 'em. But it was all sort of abstract. Maybe I'll make it in the Horizon.
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There's a faint smile on Alucard's lips at the explanation. Basic art for all is in fact wonderful to hear, because it carries with it so many additional implications that are much, much better than being stuck between the Hungarians and the Ottomans at any given point in time. Even if ownership is limited, it is still improvement.]
Well, I suppose ownership doesn't change throughout the centuries. The idea of basic appreciation and understanding though? That's immensely heartening to hear, and I do mean that sincerely.
[They don't need to dwell on complications. Alucard's fairly sure his own position is clear enough, and the implications that his own ability to discuss art carries. It is skewed of course, vampires and the night world and all, but there's really no denying he was given privilage beyond the wildest dreams of most.
Alucard's own feelings are stronger towards those who are born to Abraxas, who aren't pulled from their own worlds. To only care when total strangers go missing is gross in his opinion, and reflects badly on everyone involved. It's a natural divide to look at Summoned and native differently, but carries risks in his opinion. Too easy to pit one against the other.] Gross is a wonderfully descriptive and succinct way of putting it. I doubt that any particular long term lessons will be learned from it either.
[Why would they? The best anyone can hope for is that if multiple people go missing, the powers that be might act a little faster.]
--If you did, I'd like to see it, please. With intent to see if something similar might be made here, mind.
[The thought of something like that walking into a theater lobby is pointedly exciting. But the idea of riffing on the concept feels like it should be stated up front, if only for transparency's sake.]
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Besides, it's way easier to cater to a single group of like, thirty than it is to apologize to millions and millions for not taking their lives seriously. (Also, some of the Summoned are... vampires and other absurdly powerful beings. Julie knows which side gets priority if she were to choose.) ]
If government people ever really learned their lessons, they wouldn't be in the government. [ She says it with a scoff. ] Those power-hungry jackasses just work on a loop of fuckin' up, pretendin' to learn from it, then not doin' anythin' different. All of 'em.
[ Julie's view of governments, particularly the hyper-militaristic kind they've found themselves living under, is even darker than most people's. It's sort of inevitable when one survives a military fuck-up that kills eight billion or so people.
She nods, agreeing to show him. When he sees her domain, he will understand the degree to which she really does appreciate making a space into something beautiful to see. ] I was thinkin' I might have a party next month, in the Horizon. Might be nice to give everyone a space to just sorta relax without the officials breathin' down our necks. I can have somethin' done by then for you to see. It would be kinda like, my recreation more than the true thing, but it'd be close.
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[It is a tired observation, unhappy but not surprised. The way of all worlds seems to be that the best interest of one's immediate circle is all that matters. Everything else factors in only if there is overlap. The dhampir can only hope that the natives will be able to seize upon this and ensure that the minute something starts happening again, it will be taken seriously.
Easier to move on to only art.] I'll admit, I am not much of a party person. [But that's obvious the minute you look at his depressed ass.] But I can absolutely be bribed by looking at what you create.
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[ Which is, as far as she can tell, a term that shitty art people came up with as a way to blow smoke up their own asses. Like anything popular must be garbage, and they're really the unappreciated geniuses, just too deep for the masses to understand. But unpopular things, in her experience, are rarely overlooked masterpieces. They're usually just not very good.
Julie has, instead, filled her space with things that make her happy, brightly colored murals and images of beautiful things in ornate gold frames. Hanging installation pieces shaped like birds and butterflies that gently sway if she sends a breeze through the space. But little that she's ever thought to imbue with deep, secret meaning. ]
I can make you like, books too, if you want. Of pictures of famous art from after your time.
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[Alucard realizes that might come off awkwardly now that he has said it, but he'll trust that his entire demeanor during the discussion thus far has made it clear that he's sincere in his interest. The entire conversation has been well worth the time - not only for learning about how the arts are in the future, but to see how other Summoned are interpreting the current pieces coming out of Libertas.
Maybe it isn't a surprise that he perks greatly at the offer of books. Like a meerkat popping up and looking around.]
At the risk of sounding overenthusiastic: I would love and appreciate that offer very much.
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But a book of famous art, she can do. It won't have much information for most of the pages -- at best, she can hope to supply artist names or proper titles for a handful of paintings or sculptures. She's not an art aficionado. But he can always have other people add their own memories later. ]
The party's gonna be low-key, swear. I actually had the idea for a garden party before they did all this, but I'm still gonna do it. [ Julie has such mastery over the Horizon that she loves any chance to create something truly breathtaking. ] I figure all the... pit people would want somethin' quieter and softer. I once gave Jaskier a panic attack with a glitter cannon, so fingers crossed they can handle flowers and quiet music.
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[Alucard in a club, however, is the absolute height of hilarity and probably needs to happen regardless.]
You're not wrong about creating more of an oasis than we can create in the real world, at any rate. Goodness knows Jaskier and I aimed for that with the park, but there will always be limits.
[Being wholly unfamiliar with the concept of a glitter cannon, although he can take a guess, Alucard lets out a soft laugh.] Surprising Jaskier is no small task.
I'll look forward to both the art and the gathering.
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[ When Julie alters her domain from its norm, she often operates off of an amalgamation of images, the thousands and thousands of aspirational pictures she's seen throughout her life in modern America. Fascinating places that much wealthier people than she ever was had visited and posted online, places that people on TV would go for their "vacation episodes". Things she never would lay eyes on in her real world. One thing she can remember vividly are pictures from some famous botanical garden, enormous sculptures of animals and objects all made from plants. She'd always wanted to see them in real life.
She smiles at him, head tilted to one side. ] Well, then I'll see you there. And at the party tomorrow.
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[It is said with absolute and utter sincerity, because Alucard really is interested in both things. He's not touched the particulars of his own domain after he first made it, save for changes in the weather. There's a comfort in the abstraction of a perfect late November forest that is not meant to mimic anything associated with home.
There's a polite nod of Alucard's head. He really does need to get moving.]
Until then.