abraxasmods: (Default)
ABRAXAS MODS ([personal profile] abraxasmods) wrote in [community profile] abraxaslogs2022-02-17 07:49 pm

EVENT #6: PEACE ON THE HORIZON

Event #6 - EVENT INFO

Those that agree to attend the Summit will travel via portals to the designated location, which is out in the open in neutral territory. Plenty of pretty mountains and flowers. A magic field is erected over this area. Characters can only enter and exit at designated portals. It is not possible to leave this encircled area, which will also negate teleportation and portal spells. Plus, you don't want to embarrass your faction by sneaking out of bounds!

Before entering, all will be given a pin that designates what faction they belong to. This pin is not only color-coded but enchanted so that even should the appearance change, mages from any faction can identify who is who. The Summoned will be required to wear this pin at all times during the Summit.

The Summoned will be offered a comfortable tent to stay in during the 3-day Summit period! There's also a communal bath and a lounge to enjoy. A simple but tasty complimentary breakfast is provided for everyone, and additional meals can be bought from the faction booths or at the lounge. See the Neutral Section detailed below for more.

As noted, CHARACTERS MAY CHANGE FACTIONS USING THIS EVENT. To switch factions, please reply to the comment here. See the OOC post (link above) for details or questions!

The "Peace" Summit
An open plain flanked by mountains to the north and south, a large circular area has been fenced off. Large poles embedded into the earth are connected with magical rings, drooping heavy in the middle as if the ethereal chains have real weight. The area is divided into thirds, each section a mass of colorful tents and booths. In the center is a large wooden stage. All attendees must sit through this keynote speech. It's only polite.

The Prime Minister of the Free Cities begins the opening address. In formal military regalia she's the first to address the crowd, raising her arms high to command attention. She's smiling.

+ Marlo's Speech"We'd like to start by welcoming all of you. For those that don't know me, I'm Marlo Renier, Prime Minister of the Free Cities. With me are Councilwoman Winifred Bordeaux of the Solvunn Communities and Queen Ellya Gladwin of the Kingdom of Thorne. We come together today in the spirit of good will. We may be divided by borders but we're all neighbors. We all share this continent. We may not always share the same opinions or agree on everything but who does? There's one thing we do agree on though - nobody is looking to start trouble. That's about the last thing anybody needs right now. That's why we're all here today. A show of good faith, a display of trust, and hopefully the first step on a long road of diplomacy and mutual understanding. And we all expect everybody on their best behavior and to conduct themselves in the spirit of this Summit.

I'm going to turn things over to Councilwoman Bordeaux now. Thank you, and you all should come check out what the Free Cities has to offer! Councilwoman?"

Marlo steps aside for the representative of Solvunn to take center stage.

+ Winifred's Speech Winifred steps forward, nodding hear head to Marlo before turning her attention to the gathered crowd. Her own attire is modest, a dress of ivory and forest green adorned with hundreds of embroidered flowers and a velvet bodice in a deep wine red.

"Thank you, Prime Minister. Some of you are likely only to know of Solvunn due to the terrible circumstances surrounding Eifstide, for which we must humbly apologize. It was not our intention to cause such pain and happened merely by accident. While that does not take away what has occurred, we do hope that we can move forward together to create a brighter, more connected continent. All of us has something to share with each other, and it is my sincerest hope that we may learn from you, as well.

The Gods smile upon the unification of our mighty communities! May we be blessed with a friendship of longevity and prosperity!. For those of you curious as to what Solvunn can do for you, look no further than this Summit's festivities. It is my pleasure to let Queen Ellya of Thorne conclude todays formalities."
+ Queen Ellya's Speech When it's Queen Ellya's turn to speak, she addresses the crowd with hands folded. For this occassion she's worn an elaborate gown of bright blue shot through with silver that seems to shift and move through the fabric.

"Such inspiring words, truly. I can only echo the sentiments put forth before me. I hope that this Summit shows to one and all that Thorne intends no aggression toward our fellow kingdoms. Certainly, through collaborative efforts such as this, understanding can be found. Tensions can be resolved. Even between such opposite minded cultures. I am confident that these few days will be very illuminating for each and every one of you. I urge you to go forth with eyes and ears open, to ensure all that can be learned is. Enjoy yourselves. Indulge yourselves. Educate yourselves. The festivities will now commence!"

Spreading her hands towards the audience, Queen Ellya slowly steps back to her place with the others.

From here on out, the festivities commence! Characters are encouraged to freely explore each faction's section as they please - and of course, to be respectful of their neighbors. They're all friends here, after all.
Mingle & Activities
Every faction has their own setup of booths and displays that feature a variety of activities and items. Booths open in the morning and close a couple hours after sundown in the evenings. Attendants at each place will be friendly, although some may notice that while the Summoned wander more freely, there is very little intermingling among the locals of each faction. The occasional dirty look may be exchanged when no one's looking and those with keen eyes might find evidence of petty bits of vandalism.

Click to expand the sections below for a description of each area.
Thorne Section
Each booth in Thorne's section are adorned with opulent fabrics in the same blues and silvers of the Queen's dress. Magically lit lanterns are strewn on the fronts and within tents and will change colors throughout the day and over the course of the weekend. Regardless of the weather, being beneath the awnings is always pleasant as if indoors in a properly warmed and ventilated room. Nothing is left wanting. Luxury and ease through the use of magic is emphasized.

Though not calling out any who wander the aisle, any who approach a booth will be greeted with a pleasant smile. Mages are eager to show off their magicks by the use of spells, staves, wands, and magical enchantments from ancient tomes. A booth from Hayle University gives demonstrations and short lectures on the hour every hour, letting the Summoned know that with enough practice they, too, can become a Master of Magicks.

For those who came with a full coin purse, there are fine wines, expensive tapestries and fabrics, sparkling accessories and more available for purchase. If you're feeling hungry, it is highly suggested that you try the decadent and delicately dressed dishes comparable to what's served in Castle Thorne itself.

Along with magic shows, the most popular booth is that of the Pondering Orb. Form an orderly line and wait for your turn to approach the orb. All will be allotted five whole minutes to think their deepest thoughts as they lay their hands upon the orb and ponder. The little bit of tingling that you feel and the faint glow that grows the longer you touch it just means that it's working.
Free Cities Section
The Free Cities area can be heard from nearly all the other sections, alive with sound and activity. There's a state of carefully balanced chaos between the different booths and lanterns are connected by long wires, powered by generators placed proudly out in front - in almost direct competition to the magical light show that Thorne has been putting on. It's just a bit of friendly rivalry, of course. There's nothing wrong with having such a strong reliance on magic, even if it seems rather outdated.

Attendants are eager to show off all their grand innovations, including meals in a can (main course and dessert all in one dubious goop can!) and a small variety of old-style guns. They are the only faction displaying these weapons. In addition, they'll talk about the impressive level of productivity their workers provide in the name of progress. Naturally, no one is forced to work overtime. It's only that their people are so dedicated to their work, even a common factory worker will go out of their way to help science and innovation. The Summoned are encouraged to consider joining a nation with such a high level of ambition, and there's always room for everyone in their powerful military.

To commemorate the event, those participating can stamp their bronze with a fancy gear pattern. It takes about fifteen seconds to press and renders the bronze worthless to spend, but what's more valuable than a souvenir? There is a sign that says No refunds if you aren't happy with the result, although if the machine happens to swallow your coin, you will be given a new bronze to stamp free of charge. Isn't that generous?
Solvunn Section
Solvunn's booths are covered with handmade tablecloths in various styles - quilted, patchwork, crochet, and intricate embroidery. Enchanted candles of all shapes and sizes float and illuminate the area, some changing color as the day goes on. When the sun sets, all the candles take on a shade that imitates moonlight.

Those who are running booths will call out to anyone who approaches, ushering them to the booths in order to ply them with friendly conversation and small samples of their wares. For the right price, there are specialty honeys, cheeses, candies, and all other manner of goat-based products. A few booths also have goat's milk soaps, lotions, and candles. Ask a Solvunnite about what good a goat is and they'll tell you everything. The mages are equally more than happy to show off their mastery, though not just in flashy elemental magic. Mages fond of divination, tealeaf readings, and interpreting tarot will offer one-on-one demonstrations, especially if you've some coin to spare.

This year, Solvunn has decided to extend its Spring Equinox celebration to the other Abraxans at the Summit! Everyone is encouraged to join in the festivities as now is the time for observing the balance of day and night. This celebration is devoted to new life - new community members, additions to their flocks, and the bringing of goodwill for the year's crops. A maypole is erected at the center of the celebration and if it stays upright until the following festival, it's taken as a sign that the community's harvest will be bountiful.

Additionally, the shrine of Lyfbringr has been erected with paintings and several small statues depicting an androgynous god that appears as an amalgamation of man, flora, and fauna. The shrine is enclosed in a tent that is half bright cheery colors and darker monochromatic shades.

Representatives of Solvunn stand by to weave colorful ribbons or rings of flowers into people's hair or tie small bells onto their wrists. There are many baby goats frolicking in a temporary paddock that guests are free to mill about in. The Summoned are invited to consider a life among a peaceful neighborly commune where help and friendship are right at your doorstep!
Neutral Section
This area is meant for everyone to mingle, but the Summoned will find they're mostly the only ones here as the locals prefer to stay within their factions. It's lightly decorated with no particular colors or emblems of any one faction. Ample ambient lighting gives the place a warm glow once the sun goes down. Wooden benches are placed sporadically between the different designated areas, making sure that no one has to go far to find a place to rest their feet.

The Lounge Tavern is open at noon for 2 hours for lunch, and then again at sunset in the evenings, where anyone can come to have a drink or a meal. Beneath the protection of a large, open air tent, seating is provided in the form of more wooden benches and long shared tables, as well as a few stools. Vintages, ales, and meads from each of the factions are available to enjoy. A few recreational activities are available, as well, such as darts and dice games. The tables and seats are placed close together, to encourage mingling and talk among each other. Though the bar is staffed by NPC volunteers, all are expected to bus their own tables when they leave.

The Sleeping Tents are where the Summoned will return to for the night to sleep. Each tent has large number of pillows, throws, and a few large mats that can be arranged as desired for optimal comfort. The ground itself is lined in animal pelts, mostly sheep and goat, making it soft and inviting. They are indeed shared, but there's plenty of room for everyone. Each tent can fit about 8-10 people - or more, if you cozy up.

The Communal Baths open in both the evenings and in the mornings for a few hours each, which is effectively an open bathhouse pool. The pool is dug into the ground itself and lined with special tile manufactured from the Free Cities, hailed for its ability to hold water without the use of special sealant. The waters are magically warmed to the ideal temperature using enchanted stones from Thorne that create a natural border around the edges, and soap (made of goat's milk, courtesy of Solvunn) and towels are provided. Here, those attending can bathe as well as use it as a mingle.


Summit Events
Meant to be a "collaboration" between the factions, the Summit also offers activities that take place on the main stage where the speeches were initially given.
Raffle
The Summoned will be provided a single courtesy raffle ticket, which they can use to enter the raffle contest. Additional tickets will cost an extra 5 bronze coins. To enter the raffle contest, fill out the comment here and we will RNG your prizes!

Regardless of luck, all those who enter will receive all 3 (one of each) of the following consolation prizes:

  • Inkless Quill: Provided by Thorne, this is a magical quill that never runs out of ink...sort of. It'll work for about a month of heavy use before it runs out of juice. The Thorne sigil will automatically watermark any pages that this quill is used to write on.
  • Tote Bag & Charm: Provided by Solvunn, this soft woven tote bag comes with a small handmade charm depicting a sigil of one of the old gods. If asked what the god or sigil means, the only answer is that you will know when your time comes.
  • Glow Ring: Provided by the Free Cities, this ring will adjust to fit any finger size. It comes with a round orb instead of a jewel that can light up on command and act as a powerful torch or flashlight. Very powerful. People have gone blind by looking directly into it for too long.
An Escaped Creature
On the second day of the event, rumor has it a small creature has gone loose! The offender in question is this little fellow, who is the size of a small poodle. The Summoned are asked to help find and catch him, if at all possible. He's noted to be harmless if mischievous, but all those in the area are warned to be careful for if he's startled, the animal will eject a magical plume from his quills that can cause one of the following temporary effects: excessive sneezing, a change in hair color, glitter bombed, or to emit a constant glowing aura.

No one knows where he came from or who brought him, but ask any of the faction attendants and they'll be liable to start pointing fingers at the other side. Nonetheless, all those who make an effort to help catch him will be thanked and available mages may attempt to help with the side effects.

If you want your character to make a real attempt at catching him, reply to the comment here by Feb 20th and we'll RNG who eventually catches him. If your character fails, however, they must take one of its side effects for the rest of the day. The choice as to which one is yours! The winner will be rewarded with a token bottle of wine for their troubles or a very fancy dessert if they don't drink.
petcromancer: (hands crossed)

Hector | Free Cities | The Magician

[personal profile] petcromancer 2022-02-22 02:51 am (UTC)(link)
[Hector rolls his eyes throughout the speeches, having little patience for the political squabbles of the three nations. The pin displayed on his outfit proclaim him as being aligned with the Free Cities, though he doesn't seem particularly interested in what Prime Minister Marlo has to say.]

Booths

[In spite of his current factional alliance, Hector seems to be everywhere but the Free Cities' booth.

In the Thorne area, Hector watches the line of attendants ponder over the orb, eventually deciding against joining the line. Looks like a scam to him.

The magical displays, however, are interesting. A palette cleanser after the aggressive focus on technology in Cadens. Hector doesn't spend money, but he does take some time to chat with some of the less pretentious-seeming mages, comparing notes and even showing off a trick or two of his own. His undead frog pet, Constantine, is brought forth a time or two to demonstrate his points about reanimation.

Meanwhile, over at the Solvunn section, it's the opposite. Hector is doing his best not to speak to any of the native Solvunnites while stocking up on goat cheeses and jars of honey and the various other products they sell. Look, he's not homesick or anything, he just... is seizing the opportunity to pick up some ingredients for some dishes he hasn't had in a while.

And if he pauses to pet a few baby goats, it's for scientific purposes. Merely checking them to see if they look healthy and well cared for. Definitely not fighting off the desire to steal one to take home with him.

And back in the neutral territory, he can be found enjoying the communal baths (and wondering aloud why more of the cities don't have such facilities). When night falls, he realizes he's neglected to find a tent yet. Picking one that doesn't sound overly full, he draws the flap back enough to peek in and ask, 'Any room left inside?']


Day 2

[Upon the second day, it's mainly the same as above, save for the added bonus of Hector having electric blue hair and looking incredibly salty about it.]

Anything else

[Feel free to hit up my ooc post or [plurk.com profile] demonrubberducky]
yeshou: (16)

Wen Kexing and Zhou Zishu and a tent

[personal profile] yeshou 2022-02-22 02:54 am (UTC)(link)
[On the positive side, the two martial artists aren't sleeping even at the early hours and therefore not going to complain about late night reading. On the other hand, they've been drinking and their games have been slowly escalating in excitement. At first they are playing a game of guessing numbers, but when Stephen asks them to quiet down, Wen Kexing gets a better idea.]

A-Xu.

[Okay, so noise is the problem? They can fix that. He gestures to one of the other books near Stephen, holding a finger to his lips to show that they are totally going to be quiet, and picks up one of the nuts they got as snacks for their drinking. Channeling qi into it, he flicks the nut off of the side of the tent and bounces it right on top of the book to Stephen's side. It's admittedly not the hardest target, but this is just the first round.]
carmesi: <user name="berks"> (253)

shu-ten~

[personal profile] carmesi 2022-02-22 03:01 am (UTC)(link)
[the delightful company of an imp of sorts, if nothing else, lacking as her knowledge may be of shuten's kind. she can appreciate the candid response, though clearly there is no love to be found towards the leaders of each faction; not in her company's words, anyway.]

The absence of it feels like it is not quite genuine.

[but who is she, really, to judge the way this world measures itself?]

You do not come from Solvunn, do you?
carmesi: <user name="berks"> (284)

[personal profile] carmesi 2022-02-22 03:08 am (UTC)(link)
[oh, she certainly was not expecting to find herself with such nuanced thoughts on the matter. the words used to express himself remind wanda of someone she cherishes, now lost, so it does wonders in lowering her guard.

(like a calming balm, no matter how much she may grief yet for vision.)]


I don't personally know them, and it is simply odd that they are so familiar with one another after being at odds for so long.

[besides, not to mention, the situation with the eifstide (from what wanda's heard) seems unlikely to be set aside so quickly and easily, considering how goro had felt about it not too long ago.]

Have you been here a while?
yeshou: (17)

[personal profile] yeshou 2022-02-22 03:22 am (UTC)(link)
I just arrived recently. But I know their kind.

[He doesn't really know the personal grudges and histories of each of these kingdoms--and once he would have held no interest at all in them--but after surviving the infighting and ambitions of the jianghu through sheer luck and violence, he's ready to pay attention this time around.]

If it suits them, they'll deliver sweet words even to their enemies. If I want something from you, you can become my long lost sister if it will bring us closer.

[He looks back to where the three leaders are presiding, marking their body language.]

It's funny, isn't it? How important we are to them, yet how insignificant. We've just met, but I would trust you sooner than any one of them.
aquaveiled: (himeka-322)

[personal profile] aquaveiled 2022-02-22 03:23 am (UTC)(link)
[ They are of similar mind in that regard--what better way to get to know someone and their home than through their food? That she would get the opportunity to sample more from Thorne and the inventive dishes of the Free Cities is something she is grateful for, no matter the tensions between factions.

So she smiles in turn and happily plots herself down next to the stranger. ]


I'm definitely not going to say "no" to a plate of uneaten food.

[ She probably should. She's been the subject of food tampering, but...the stomach wants what it wants.

She happily picks up what appears to be some sort of little meaty pastry and pops it into her mouth. ]


Without restraint?

[ She definitely says that while chewing. ]

Why show restraint when it's delicious?
sakaya: (I'm telling you there's no remorse)

[personal profile] sakaya 2022-02-22 03:24 am (UTC)(link)
I was unceremoniously dropped into Thorne as a matter of fact!

[And she has no problem with it whatsoever. Shuten glances at her strolling companion, secretly appraising the woman's red hair. It's quite nice, but that's not the topic right now.]

And I believe that was for the better. We're well provided for, the royalty and citizens seem to have a decent grasp on magic and technology, and I've yet to do a thing. But maybe I'll have better luck finding the equivalent of sake elsewhere outside of Thorne.
standvastig: (Withstand the storm)

ii, the shrine

[personal profile] standvastig 2022-02-22 03:27 am (UTC)(link)
[Hendrik's eventual wanderings into the other factions' sections are done with a quiet, curious eye; while he is able to inspect most things without any interference, the few times he is approached with the intention of talking up that particular faction are disconcerting. Clearly the Summoned are sought after by each of the factions, and he is doing himself a woeful disservice by not yet understanding what sets them apart from the regular populace. Is it truly just this connection to the Singularity? Why did they have it and no one else?

He spends more time in the Solvunn section than he expects of himself -- perhaps because he is able to assert his intentions quicker there than in the Free Cities'. Not that it seems to keep them from coming at him with ribbons and flowers; when his height proves a challenge, the representatives settle with flower and ribbon bands around his wrists.

The shrine is just one more place to explore, and he raises a brow at the man in Thorne finery adorned with flower accessories. Not that he is one to talk.]


I am not here to worship. Truly, I was not here seeking privacy either, but I will not say no to a moment away from the crowds.
petcromancer: (grumpy)

[personal profile] petcromancer 2022-02-22 03:28 am (UTC)(link)
[Hector isn't nearly so amused. He still soar from the dive he'd taken trying to grab the little monster, which had still wiggled from his grasps.]

I almost had the little bastard. [He grumbles. If he'd had a pet or two with him, he'd have managed it for sure. But no, he'd been alone. At least nobody had seen him land in the dirt with an enchanted quill shot into one arm.]

What about you? Dhampir speed wasn't enough?
a_better_man: (pleasant)

[personal profile] a_better_man 2022-02-22 03:31 am (UTC)(link)
It is certainly an improvement over my prior circumstances. Dawning of the end times is, I believe, nearing the very bottom of the barrel of circumstances.

[Those were...not good times. Broke, no horse, no food, alone on the road with no idea how to get home, and possibly a key instrument to the destruction of the world. Likely a very stupid move to strike out alone, as far as self preservation went, but better than the alternative. Too much death had visited the people that mattered to him already, he wasn't going to bring more.

And while he knows he comes from humble, to put it mildly, origins, it's difficult to imagine this world somehow being a worse change. Aside from the glaringly obvious kidnapping bit.]


You come from a world even grander and more comfortable than this one? I cannot begin to imagine such a place.
cryptsleeper: (far too still)

Closed | Sypha | Potential CWs in this thread for discussion of canon levels of gore and violence

[personal profile] cryptsleeper 2022-02-22 03:37 am (UTC)(link)
--Thank you.

[Alucard emerges from the baths with clean hair, currently hanging low and hardly dried off. The effects of the glitter from the tiny, runaway creature wore off earlier in the afternoon, and while there was a relief in that, it was still hard to find a time that the baths were completely abandoned.

So he has asked Sypha to buy him a precious half hour later in the evening. Hardly as long as he'd like, and it could clue her in to the realities of what happened in her absence, but there were needs. Like making sure all the glitter was gone. And removing the goat smell that he had accidentally acquired.

He takes a moment to adjust his coat, making sure that it keeps in all the body heat he's gained from the baths.]


Do you need me to do the same for you?

[Alucard knows the answer will be no. Sypha's a Speaker, why would this be a problem? But it is still Correct to ask regardless.]
princessvegas: (076. than put up with this)

[personal profile] princessvegas 2022-02-22 03:48 am (UTC)(link)
[ She watches the little conga line of beads and wonders how she can possibly summarize the idea that, because of what she's gone through, she puts more weight on practicality? That when there's no teachers or easily accessible reference material to learn from, you either have the tools to pave your own path or you don't? That she could have read every book in the world and it wouldn't have made a difference when she had to claw her way through the complete and total collapse of civilization? All that mattered was what was already inside her.

Julie reaches out and takes a single bead from the line, looks at it. Her head tilts a little to one side. ]


I wouldn't say less legitimate. It's more like... learnin' French without ever having a conversation out loud with someone who learned it for their first language. It's not the same, and it'll only get you so far. And it's also just wrong. You can't be a "master of magicks" if you only know how to do one kind of magic.
yeshou: (25)

[personal profile] yeshou 2022-02-22 03:51 am (UTC)(link)
[ Wen Kexing is perfectly happy to share the spoils of his adventure in taverns. After all, eating is better with company, and this is a relatively new realization on his part. Therefore he has to practice more!

He tries to resist a smile at the way she just starts eating without any concern, the argument hitting a bittersweet note with him as her casual attitude almost reminds him of another person entirely.

Zhuren! He called me a kind lady. Okay, I'll treat you to a drink!

In the end, he can't help but laugh. ]


All right! Good, I like your spirit. What is the best drink? I'll trust you because you look knowledgeable. Not everyone is eating or drinking, so I can't take their word for any of it.
princessvegas: (051. i'm a jerk)

[personal profile] princessvegas 2022-02-22 04:07 am (UTC)(link)
End of times really ain't as bad as they usually make it out to be. [ She waves a hand dismissively. ] I mean, don't get me wrong, every single part of it sucks crazy hard, but like, there's not the whole "rainin' meteors of fire, ground crackin' open" thing

[ So that attitude kind of sums up how her world ended up. Either way, she wrinkles her nose with thought. ]

I wouldn't say grander, everythin' in this world is more fancy and... pompous. But more comfortable for sure. Y'know what I didn't know I'd miss quite so much? Air conditioning. Air conditioning and central heat.
aquaveiled: (himeka-441)

[personal profile] aquaveiled 2022-02-22 04:10 am (UTC)(link)
[ Despite his less than enthusiastic reply, Himeka smiles warmly and takes the seat. Amos has never been a particularly chatty person, and though their last interaction ended on something of a somber note, she doesn't hold any of it against her impressions of him. There were some revelations, true, but nothing that overwrites what she believes is an inherent caring for other people. That is what's most important.

Himeka takes a swig from her tankard before continuing unabashed. ]


It's been a while. How have you been?
speak_n_spell: (pic#15231410)

[personal profile] speak_n_spell 2022-02-22 04:16 am (UTC)(link)
[Finding a window of time where communal baths in a festival tent city were unoccupied was tricky. Keeping them empty is as simple as posting a handwritten sign that reads: Closed for Emergency Sanitation Procedures.

Most people take one look and move along. Sypha only has to dissuade a few more stubborn individuals by stepping in their way and slandering the Lounge Tavern's beef and barley stew. She's quick to strip the parchment down as the door swings shut behind Alucard.]


No, thank you, I'm fine. I think the glitter's quite fetching! [There's a smear of it from her temple to the corner of her jaw, winking in the fading light.] Feeling better?
aquaveiled: (himeka-352)

[personal profile] aquaveiled 2022-02-22 04:30 am (UTC)(link)
[ Himeka has never had much of the attention span for long-winded speeches, but these are succinct enough that her mind doesn't wander too much. More so now than ever she knows she needs to be attentive and vigilant, though in reality Estinien would share much of her same impressions. Flowery language covering up something decidedly more stinky.

She believes nothing of what the Queen of Thorne says, knowing the part she played in Relena's capture and subsequent experimentation. The Prime Minister of the Free Cities, though...she's a compelling woman. Himeka has to go against her instincts to give the benefit of the doubt and remember that this woman is not her friend.

As the crowd disperses, Himeka puts her hand to her chin and takes the moment to collect her thoughts. Was this inevitable after all the confrontations near the Singularity back during the Solstice? Himeka had been one to bring back a casket for Solvunn, though she doesn't know yet what they've done with it...

When she hears her name, she perks up almost instantly and begins to look around. Strange, because the voice is familiar but-- ]


...!

[ Her eye widen when her gaze finally settles on a head of very familiar white hair. Not the one she just lost, but one she had not expected to find. ]

Thancred!

[ Worries about the speeches are set aside and she slips through the remaining throngs to meet him halfway. Her eyes are bright and surprise is written clear across her features, but there's unmistakable relief as well. (It's a guilty relief, but relief all the same.)

As soon as he's within range and animation mechanics aren't there to ruin the bonds of friendship, Himeka goes in for a hug. ]
cointosser: ([111 - S2])

[personal profile] cointosser 2022-02-22 04:32 am (UTC)(link)
Basic hygiene? My dear, my standards for you aren't that high quite yet.

[And customary, too, to reach for barbs that he may have once spit precisely to hurt her. It comes as easily as it had then. And despite his unloading onto Geralt -- and more frequently than not, he still regrets admitting to it at all -- their time in Oxenfurt, even in only vague references, still twists his heart. It feels like a secret they share between them, once forced upon them. The things they did. The decisions they made.

How, ultimately, they could not save each other more than once.

He gets it. The fear. So he only brushes her hand with his own, with his scarred, calloused fingers, watching his bird as it vacates his shoulder to return to her side. (Truly, it is a piece of him, isn't it?)]


One might say I'm unforgettable. [Or that he puts a lot of effort into being that way.] I hope your new friend doesn't regale you with the same song too often, or I'll never be off your mind.

[A terrible fate.

He pauses, and is quieter when he asks:]
How are you? Really?
Edited 2022-02-22 04:33 (UTC)
a_better_man: (tired)

[personal profile] a_better_man 2022-02-22 04:36 am (UTC)(link)
They do talk a lot about the world literally breaking - they say it did before. Sort of a cycle. But so far it's been more a rotting darkness swallowing the land. They call it the Blight. Only in one corner of the world, but...

[Mat shrugs. Up until a handful of months ago, it was all stories and ideas and things that were happening far away and had nothing to do with him. The Dark One was something to scare one another with, little thought given to the fact he was real - he was sealed away, after all. Only not so deep as to be unable to poison the land, apparently.

Well, it's all in better hands than his, now.]


I...don't quite know either of those things. What in the world can you condition air to do?
falcony: (ia_100000051)

sam wilson { free cities } justice

[personal profile] falcony 2022-02-22 04:45 am (UTC)(link)
ALL SECTIONS
[ sam had heard some of what this festival was supposed to be before they were all called, but very little. it was enough for him to know he was going, that he wouldn't pass up the opportunity for all of the summoned to be in the same place (or as many who would come). peace. that is what the opening speech was about - the three factions coming together, finding a way forward without fighting. without war. this was what sam wanted, this is what sam has been planning to work towards. he'd just wished he could believe them. wished it would stay this easy. but he knows better than pretty words, and while he claps, and smiles, and looks as excited as everyone else - but there's still a tension in him. still a guard he can't put down. like he can't quite bring himself to relax.

still - it didn't matter much, didn't matter in the long run. sam took to the sections and stalls with a sort of energy and motivation you can only really find in someone who is comfortable in this sort of thing. whether or not he is doesn't matter as much, as he is going out of his way to catch any of the summoneds he can. he's polite, cheerful, and talkative with the locals as well, too. but they are not where sam's attention is, and while he's very nice and very charming, he will usually find his way out of any extended conversation and instead to the summoned.

he will weave in and out of the different sections, approaching summoneds that he doesn't yet know and some he does. you might have your back turned and sam will suddenly be at your side, or maybe he'll bring himself into the conversation you've been a part of. either way, it won't be long before he's holding out a hand to shake, or just a smile. he'll introduce himself, or he'll ask how you're doing - whichever is appropriate. then he'll end up with an arm around your shoulder, taking you over to the next booth, the next drink, the next performance...whatever it is. ]


So what convinced you to come? Just the party? [ he's genuinely curious - who of the summoned are now suddenly loyal to their factions? who are just here to pass time? to see others? it'll matter in the long run.]
NEUTRAL SECTIONS
[ when the main events of the festivals are over, sam can and will still be found out and about. first, usually, at the lounge. he has some coin on him, which means that there will be drinks and there will be food and it is very likely that between the large group dinners he's going to accidentally end up planning (this is what happens, sam, when you tell 10+ people to meet you for dinner that night), and the way he seems to make his way around the room, he'll be sure to chat with anyone who is present. even if it means settling himself down across the table from you just to say hi.

after dinner, or whenever it is that there seems to be an in-between moment, sam will make it back to his tent. for better or for worse (mostly worse, for anyone trying to sleep) sam's tent is a kind of central place, where people are coming and going, some napping in corners, some hanging around to chat. sam pops in and out of them with quite a bit of frequency, dropping things off, picking things up, meeting people out of the chaos of the main festival. if he'd mentioned you finding him at any point - it will be that tent that he will want to chat. that tent he'll want to talk. he knows nothing is especially safe, out here, but he will still find some comfort in his tent - even with its revolving door of tentmates.

which is funny - no matter how much sam might make it back to his tent, he doesn't sleep much. and if there is a time when his tent does quiet down, sam will probably be found in the baths. it is a party, after all, so he might as well have a bit of relaxing time too. for quiet time, but also to physically get some time to relax. he'll be a lot looser here, a little less on and a little more just sam. ]
WILDCARD
[ hit me up with whatever, or if we have other plans that we've discussed, and i'll roll with it! c: also feel free to leave me a comment here and we can talk it out! ]
aquaveiled: (himeka-446)

[personal profile] aquaveiled 2022-02-22 04:57 am (UTC)(link)
[ Far from it! At seeing a familiar face, even one she battled against, Himeka is just as friendly. She hadn't taken it as seriously as she ought to have at the time, even with Estinien's injuries in mind, seeing it mostly as expected damage when going up against other warriors.

Of course, she had since learned that not everyone had the same experience. Yet his greeting is enough to reaffirm that she hadn't been entirely off base. Though she looks a little unsure at first, the attempt at congenial conversation brings out a smile as she nods to the other mage. ]


They are! My own attempts to craft one have gone absolutely horrendously.

[ At least she is completely honest about that. Unashamed, even if she ought to be. ]

Can you speak for the quality?
aquaveiled: (himeka-295)

1 - shrine

[personal profile] aquaveiled 2022-02-22 05:00 am (UTC)(link)
[ Though it has been some months, Himeka does recognize the woman she had braved the horrors of that garishly colored haunted house with. Himeka herself has been lingering a bit around the shrine, not just because the religion of Solvunn is of personal interest, but she is curious to see how others react.

She has her suspicions.

So she slides up to Nadine, hands behind her back in a completely innocent fashion. ]


An interesting figure, aren't They?
princessvegas: (057. my parents tried)

[personal profile] princessvegas 2022-02-22 05:05 am (UTC)(link)
Oh, sure, we had a buncha different doomsdays that coulda happened. Some of 'em were basically inevitable. But at the end, it wasn't the super dramatic Bibical apocalypse scene either time. Rotting darkness, we went through that one a few million years before I was born.

[ She is, of course, assuming darkness to mean an ice age. Not literal darkness, that isn't possible, not if the planet already had day and night, right? Julie is aware that she's dealing with magic and time travel and whatever else sci-fi-fantasy that can be crammed into this living nightmare. But if light and dark both existed for his world, then science dictates that one can't just take over. Those concepts are not sentient.

Right??

She waves her hand, as if to shoo that idea away. ]


No, no, it's not like that. Imagine you can go into any room and decide the exact temperature you want it to be. Any temperature you like. Heating and air conditioning are what make it happen, they heat or cool air down and then force it out around the house, to keep the temperature you want.
aquaveiled: (himeka-424)

solvunn performance

[personal profile] aquaveiled 2022-02-22 05:09 am (UTC)(link)
[ It would stand to reason that because she's seen enough rolling hills and friendly goats in the past few months that she would spend most of her time anywhere but the Solvunn section. And it is half true--she is ever curious and keen to see what the other factions have to offer, the Free Cities in particular since she's had the least in person exposure to it.

But likewise, the shrine to the Lyfbringr is something of a vigil for her as well. Uncovering the, perhaps, darker secrets of the beliefs of those in the Commune has been one of her goals since she arrived. Not to say that she believes they mean ill will--most to summon a god into being are doing it out of self-preservation, but she knows how quickly that can turn awry. (Not everyone is as sensible and well-bearded as Ramuh.)

So she is a little surprised to see that Jaskier has set up camp when she returns to the shrine but is instead delighted by the first performance she's been able to catch in person. As much as her impression was before, this is clearly his element and passion and it is hard--nay, impossible not to be swept up in it. Himeka is too ready to offer applause at the end.

She waits her turn for those gathered to offer their thanks and coin before striding up. ]


That was amazing, Jaskier!

[ One last personal round of applause for the artist and his owl. ]

I have to say, I think this was better in person, though I'm certain Moglad is sad he missed your performance.
gynvael: (148)

sleeping piles.

[personal profile] gynvael 2022-02-22 05:25 am (UTC)(link)
[ Sleep rarely comes easy to him; this Summit makes it worse, somehow. He's got too fucking much on his mind, between the Queen, Thorne, Yennefer, Ciri. He knows staying in Cadens would've helped nothing, though. He needs to be here—and he can't hide Ciri away from the world forever. He's learned that. More than once. So he's here, with them—all of them—going through the motions of this peacekeeping horseshit, doing what he can with the opportunity he's afforded: speaking face to face to those he's only ever been able to see through the Horizon.

Laying eyes on the Queen personally, again. Though who knows where she's fucked off to since after her little speech.

At least they've plenty of company in the tent. He's glad for it. That they aren't alone, Jaskier and Ciri. Julie and Nadine are important to them, too, as are they to Jaskier and Ciri, and seeing them unit has been...good. A spot of brightness amongst too much darkness as of late. Not that the darkness has entirely faded. That much is clear during the nights. He stays awake while Jaskier dreams, fingers digging into his arm. Not until Jaskier cries out does Geralt gently shake him awake. ]


Hey. You're okay. [ He lays his hand on Jaskier's shoulder. Outside, bobbling white orbs light the path. It's cooler here than it is in the desert, but not cold. A light breeze that drifts through. ]