EVENT #6: PEACE ON THE HORIZON

[abraxasmods]

Event #6 - EVENT INFO

go to the OOC event info and plotting post

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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.

Comments

[aquaveiled]

[ She won't pry if Nadine would rather not, though she is very curious how that worked out. Though if the eyes of the ruling family prefer to look elsewhere, mayhaps Nott is the sort of place anyone wanting to escape Thorne should begin their journey.

She can only hope it wasn't as chaotic as the jailbreak that ensued all those moons ago. ]

That's good you made it all the same. I know that they weren't unkind to all they summoned, but even so.

[ Himeka doesn't hold it against the people of Thorne--it's the actions of the royal family and their ilk that she distrusts. How far down that trickles, though...that's the real problem. ]

Arcana? Hmm...well, where I'm from it's more of a way to divine one's fate, predict the movements of dragons, or heal, actually. It's a little odd here.

[aquaveiled]

[ Now this is a man after her own heart. He had already won her over by sharing his food, but offering to buy their drinks at the same time? There's no way she can pass that up. Her excitement at the prospect is quite visible in the way she lights up and her tail starts to swish happily behind her.]

I really would be a fool to turn you down.

[ She stands up from her seat, only to call over the help. ]

Can we get one of everything on tap? Perfect!

[ No holding back down. When she sits back down, Himeka is all smiles. He holds out her hand as seems proper in these parts. ]

I'm Himeka Sui.

[yeshou]

[ At first he thinks that Zhou Zishu might be cursed by the creature. With the cloud of sparkling bits falling off of him and the weird glow coming from his zhiji, Wen Kexing's first thought is that they both must be afflicted by some mystical disease brought on by the strange animal's powers. And his concern first goes to the health of his loved one, never mind that he's shedding tiny flashes of light like a strange firework.

But when he touches Zishu and finds that he seems sound, Wen Kexing rolls his eyes and lets out an irritated scoff. ]

It turned you into your own light. Now we'll never sleep. Ah, what a stupid creature! I wish we never saw it. Whose idea was it to catch that beast anyway?

[yeshou]

[ Finally he met someone who is as free spirited about food and drink as he is! Wen Kexing has met several nice enough people since his arrival, but none were as enthusiastic about indulging as Himeka. He grins broadly, slapping his hand down on the top of the table with decision. ]

Bring more of these as well!

[ He adds on more food for the order, because good booze and good dishes are supposed to go together. Zhou Zishu will probably scold him later for burning through all of their earnings already, but they can make more. He's sure of it. ]

I'm Wen Kexing. Miss Himeka, this meeting is blessed. I'm grateful to you for coming to share your wisdom.

[ He's not quite sure about the hand, but since he's seen others do something similar a few times, he finally takes hers with his own. Look, he's fitting in! ]

I thought that I might never meet a master who knows where to find the best drinks. Everyone here seems too reserved.

[sorser]

That, and probably because I had something of a reputation.

[(Ex-) Sorcerer Supreme. His responsibilities dictated that he keep balance in his reality for the sake of his Earth, so perhaps they saw that obligation from across universes and plucked him out of the summoning pool because of it. As much as he’d like to have been asked first, he has to admit: it’s a fair strategy, and hanging an obligation over Stephen’s head often works when it’s an important one.]

And no, not everyone. But many. Magic is very prevalent in Thorne, a part of everyday life. You’d be hard pressed to find an instance in which it isn’t used.

[One question at a time. Stephen’s starting to believe he’s broken down a dam, and here they come a-flowing. Maybe it would have been better to have kept his nose stuck in his book instead of showing off.]

There are a multitude of complex spells, some I’ve cast and some I haven’t touched. [Tucked comfortably away in the “forbidden” section of Kamar-Taj’s library.] Does it matter what’s difficult and what’s not?

[princessvegas]

[ She grabs a nearby table and sits, and they're quickly brought a bottle of wine and two goblets. When she pours, it is an extremely liberal pour, because she is the kind of person who usually drinks straight from the bottle. It's a complicated subject he's asking about, and she needs a sip before she can address it. ]

Yeah, that's the way it goes sometimes, but god knows he might show up again in a few weeks, so. [ She shrugs a little. ] See, the thing is, none of us know exactly how it works. In the beginnin', only Thorne could summon, and it seems a lot like they didn't have much control over who they got. Solvunn and Cadens figured it out after some of the original group got there and ran their fuckin' yaps about it, 'cept I think they somehow figured out how to pick who they got. Thorne figured that out too. But I don't think it's a door they can really hold open at will, if that makes sense? I mean, I think that, when they summon, they're basically usin' a crowbar to open this door in the Singularity, and they were just stickin' their arm in and pullin' out whoever they could grab before the door shut again. But the Singularity, I'm not sure it really wants us here. So when people get sent back, or whatever's happenin' to 'em, I think that's the Singularity tryin' to correct itself. The only difference now is that the idiots figured out how to open their doors in a specific place and time, 'stead of just whatever they could manage. [ There's a pause and she takes another drink, her brow furrowed. ] But that's just what I think, based on talkin' to the others.

[ She's by no means an expert. By this point, she has sort of discerned that her connection to the Singularity is far stronger than most other people's, but that only gives her a minimal amount of insight. Her path in pursuing that connection has been very different from everyone else's.

But his follow-up makes her snort, perhaps a little derisively. ]

Yeah, that works on dumbass street toughs or whatever. But y'all ain't gonna stop the goddamn government with one gun and a handful of bullets, and I guaran-damn-tee you that if one'a these natives runs off to tell the bigshots that one'a us is skulkin' around and bein' a threat, they'll send the army after us. Probably all of us, which really ain't a game you should be tryin' your luck on, but even if they just come for you, you ain't got a prayer. Trust me. My world, my country, it wasn't that far off how they're runnin' Cadens. Military state, basically, biggest in the whole history of the world. It's... it's somethin'.

[ Not something good, based on her tone. She watched her government use the military to accidentally destroy ninety-nine percent of the human race, watched them scramble and lie to the world public in the aftermath. She has no trust for the government of Cadens. ]

[vixening]

[ she holds a knowing smile through his defense, because for whatever it is that he has, it's nothing compared to the baths in thorne. it couldn't be. so he says even in my own home and yennefer nods, of course he bathes, but does she really need to say more? about the decadence, about the elegance. about the world that jaskier had left behind, and that it had only been after jaskier had left, that she'd become a part of it.

so, for now, yennefer just hums. because she doesn't need to defend the castle and it's riches. the magic and what it affords them. they walk, and jaskier's tone adjusts to the topic of ronan, and yennefer's expression turns more entertained. ]

I wasn't aware he'd offended you so. [ because she wasn't, truthfully. she forgets how much time the others had spent above, in the castle, during her stay in the dungeons. it doesn't not bother her, but it is a quiet reminder. tiny children trying to incite open rebellion. ]

His affinity is for the High Mage, and Ambrose has taken a particular liking to his brand of loyalty. It's just surprising, really. The chaos he has access to is like nothing I've seen before. [ ugh jaskier says, and yennefer snorts a bit herself, the smile she has much more sarcastic, telling in ways that only jaskier can probably see. ] They were handing out titles like vassal states, after what happened there.

[ and then it is time for her to shoot jaskier a look. you probably like him. please. yennefer's eyes roll a moment later, as she continues, their feet casually taking them down busy aisles, performances and showings all around them. ]

I don't much care either way for him, though his magic is quite impressive, but he hardly cares for me. He's a bit territorial, you know, where it concerns Kylo. I think he sees me as a threat. [ which...wouldn't be wrong. still, it has yennefer shrugging, once. ] That and I got us both stuck in the mountains around the Singularity for a few hours.

[vixening]

[ he doesn't have to say anything at all, because it wasn't as though she'd said it expecting an answer. because what is there to say? an explanation? an apology? would either be necessary, or needed, or even appropriate? yennefer doesn't offer that admission expecting something in return, but rather a chance for him to know. that she has been here. that her presentations, during the festival itself, had been just that. because part of her can't be sure if he can tell anymore, when she is lying. when a mask has been worn.

( can she? )

the last time they'd spoken, he had told her that - not everyone has to offer power before you find their help worthwhile. and perhaps, in a way, he is right. but in that same thought, in that same breath, yennefer can't help but think back to all the help she'd ever been given. what it had cost her, what it had cost them. and perhaps that is the heart of the problem, isn't it? that yennefer cannot think of a single moment of offered help that had been without strings, without consequences, without agendas underlying. she's hurt as many people who have tried to help, intentionally or not, as have hurt her. and now he is here, they are here.

geralt watches her, and she can guess at what he is thinking. can guess that it is much of the same as her own thoughts. about what they'd had, about what feels - now - so distant. she misses it like a wound to the gut, slowly bleeding out. like a part of her (like her chaos) has simply left.

he asks, because of course he does. because she'd known the second they would see each other he would. she had known this, because she knows he doesn't trust her word. doesn't trust her choices. doesn't trust her. her fingers tighten in her skirts, her body still on edge, but he asks have you changed your mind and yennefer... she doesn't answer, necessarily. doesn't tell him what she knows he wants to hear, which is no or what he probably expects to hear, which is yes. instead, she simply looks at him. watches him. and then lets out a slow exhale. shakes her head just enough for him to have her answer. because she hasn't changed her mind, not entirely. there enough of her is expecting to go to solvunn tomorrow morning that she hasn't made any actual plans, hasn't spoken to anyone about when they return. enough of her is expecting the change that she has made sure the sandpiper, who lands that exact moment from its perch up in the tents on her shoulder, has always been close. all of her things, anything that means anything to her, is on her person. like she is prepared, like she knows there's a chance her entire life will be left behind.

but there is also just enough of her that continues to feel less and less sure about the decision every passing moment. ]

Tomorrow will be a big day for all the Summoned. I think a lot of decisions will be made.

[ i'm waiting until tomorrow she doesn't say. the sandpiper moves a bit closer on her shoulder, watching geralt closely. yennefer finds herself at an impasse - both wanting this conversation, this semi-interogation, to end. but not quite strong enough to lose sight of geralt, either. ]

You've spent some time in the Solvunn section.

[a_better_man]

You don't have to go to a big city for that. Locals anywhere think the same of visitors. I've picked pockets in my own home town, and had my own pocket picked in a place barely twice as big.

[The topic does make him think of something.]

Haven't had a problem with it in Thorne, even in the city. Even when I'm dressed like one of them, I haven't had any phantom fingers at my coin purse. And I certainly look like I have more money than I do when I go into the city.

[Mat wears his fancy coat with the brocade, the one Rhy had gotten for him, when he goes into the city. He looks like a wealthy man, even if he isn't one. He's only worn something simple and plain here to look more like he needs money when he busks. No one's tossing coins to a busker in gold brocade.]

I have been to cities before, just haven't spent much time in them. Not much for a fellow like me to do but look at things. Anyhow, I was mostly just passing through.

[sorser]

Stephen Strange.

[He’s not one to turn down a handshake, and he offers it willingly. Stephen’s grip is on the weaker side, but obviously not out of disinterest — he’s always willing to wring out a little more information from those who hail from a version of Earth.]

Okay, speak for yourself. Some of us do like sticking our noses in a magical textbook. But I could be biased, being a sorcerer.

[Not a wizard. An important distinction for newcomers to know.]

Take it you’re more of a javelin-throwing guy? Magical javelins exist, too, you know — if you take the time to learn. Assuming we’re not about to have our souls stolen in the next five minutes.

[homeostatic]

Yikes.

"The people of Solvunn hold fast to their faith, their families, and their community," he replies, his tone measured. "A successful harvest, healthy livestock, and strong, hardy children matter more than a nebulous artifact they'll never leave the settlement to see."

It's clear he hasn't thrown in with all that, but neither is he about to smear them for it, as the child of homebody country folk himself. He gets it, he does, and as comfortable as he is in the settlement, doing the sort of work he loves, he knows it's time to get a move on.

He'd seen this man on the battlefield, too-- hard to miss, as gigantic as he is, and he'd been injured by one of Solvunn's own, hadn't he?

"No real wonderin' about it. What can Thorne tell me about the Singularity?"

sorry about the delay on this! I needed to research old greek instruments ;;

[lackingtalent]

[Not illusion magick, then. Creation magick, or this world's approximation of it. What can be said? Hythlodaeus is surprised- unabashedly so, and his hand does falter ever so slightly before it finally accepts the pretty little gift.
Really. He'd much prefer the plant rooted and within the ground, performing a purpose greater than being given out for the sake of how pretty its flowers were- but Jaskier's charm has him take it, curiously, without voicing that opinion.

And as he focuses upon it- (Yes. The petals were perfect. Yet beyond aesthetics, the functional parts of the flowers, both male and female parts, are created with just as much attention to detail...) he answers. With a faint laugh.]

Oh, we had instruments! Psaltrys, synrinxes, kitharas, the aulos, hydraulos organs... Yet I would imagine the closest to your lute would be the lyre. And variations thereupon. A classical lyre would be shaped similarly to this- [The hand holding the flower traces around Jaskier's lute's rather... rotund and very pear-shaped body, yet does not touch it.] yet in place of this long neck, there would be two, spreading outward from the body in a fan shape. The strings would be fixed at the base to a tailpiece precisely like yours, but between these two necks. Affixed to a crossbar at the head.

...Yet really, there were a number of variations. Strings, mostly! Some lyres have three, or four. Others have seven, or even twelve! And the names. Really, every time someone decided to make a lyre variation- be it adding more strings, changing the shape or size, or even adding novel elements such as tuning pegs or two yokes- of course a new name was granted to their creation. ...Therefore, it became rather difficult to ascertain what sounded like it was being played by what in the end.

[A small, almost fond laugh leaves him then. For that was their kind in a nutshell. So many ideas, and not enough time.

...But ah, was that too much of an explanation? He glances to Jaskier as if to determine whether or not the bard's eyes had glazed over, yet (happily) he finds him still quite attentive. ...And even more happily, it appears the other man has been fit to give him a practical showing.

He blinks at the explanation, his eyes falling to the fingerboard and Jaskier's example. And oh, it's odd. While his explanation of the lyre compared to the lute sounded like they had similarities, watching it shows quite the opposite. While yes, both are instruments with differently tuned strings, the fact he is not preventing unwanted notes by damping the other strings as well is...

Unique.

To him, anyway. Gingerly, he does as asked. And...]

Oh. I see now. The shape of the body allows the sound to echo!

[He seems rather taken, indeed. And as he looks up, his tone is warm.]

It's quite amazing. How do you remember all of your songs?

[gynvael]

[ It's not an answer. Geralt takes a breath, his eyes on the way her fingers tighten in the heavy fabric of her skirt, built for Thorne's frostier climate. She's at home there. He knows she is. He would be, too, if Thorne were not as complicated as it is, between the Queen and its restrictions on travel outside the city. But home is also where he and Ciri and Jaskier are, and he...

He isn't ready to extend that to her. Not yet. Not right now. Maybe if she were to ask, to explain she wants to be near them, he might have given it some thought. He might've even agreed. But she has not. She has not once indicated her desire to be anywhere except where she believes she can best grasp hold of the power and magic she wants. ]

And you with Thorne. [ He doesn't say anything else. The truth is, he finds he has nothing left to say to her. He's said it all, back then in the places she does not remember, and he has said it now, here, in this world.

His gaze lands on the little bird instead. Jaskier's gift. He had told Jaskier at the time to take care of Yennefer, and he still means it. He's glad she has the bird: a reminder that they are here. None of them have turned their backs on her, despite what they know, despite what she has done, and it feels like—that's all he can do. He's granted her what he can. (He is not willing to grant her more, only to have it thrown back in his face.)

A big day. Yeah. He looks back at her. ] Let's hope it is. [ He hears it, a shuffle of footsteps from more late-night wanderers. Last time they were seen, nothing good came of it. He shifts, not wanting to push their luck. They have enough to worry about without the Queen setting her sights back on Yennefer because of him. ]

I need to find Jaskier. [ He takes a step away, and the distance grows. ] Look after the bird for him.

[vixening]

[ she gestures, like he's answered his own question, and turns back to her goblet. yennefer could probably be a bit more invested in what that line of thinking opens up - that the separate factions have magic equal to ambrose' years of study. that they are willing to act on that magic, no matter their views on it, says less than you'd think - as yennefer has found, over her years, that it tends to be those who claim to hate magic that can find the most intense uses for it.

the sigh he gives, though, nearly piques her curiosity. nearly. but then he moves on to speak of numbers and bolstering ranks and yennefer shakes her head a fraction. ] Bolster ranks, gather information, or we're simply powerful allies for each faction to claim as their own. Take your pick. [ her tone leans a bit more towards acceptance than anything else, though that has more to do with the fact yennefer believes almost anyone would take the opportunity to use power mages (like the summoned) or powerful weapons (like the summoned) in any way they can. it's nothing new, and while she has little experience with the other factions, she assumes they're all the same.

it is his question - about why she stayed in thorne, why she didn't take the offered doorways to other factions - that has yennefer pausing. she looks at him for a moment, really looks at him, like she is trying to decide something with very little information to back it up. but then the moment passes, and her attention returns to her drink. ]

And go where? [ ah, with all this assuming, he was bound to be wrong somewhere. with the next few words, she gestures towards each section of the festival with her goblet. ] To a collection of Cities that distrust the use of magic and believe its source should be destroyed? [ she's pointing towards where the free cities have their tents, and then sweeps the goblet over to solvunn's area, where they can probably still smell a faint aura of goat on the wind. ] Or a settlement that would rather worship magic like a god than understand its use? [ there is a distinct edge of distaste on her words for either option, before she offers him another shrug. ] Perhaps I chose the only place I could stand to be in for more than a few days at a time.

[ if thancred wanted to look closer at all of that, he may find that it's only the surface. that she is very obviously not telling him the breadth of her reasons or thoughts. but with that closer look, he will also find a very well-built and maintained wall that he will not be getting through tonight. it's not an end to the discussion, so much as a warning. ]

But don't let me cloud your opinions if the shows at this festival have been swaying you. [ sarcasm, some bite, but perhaps that should be expected. ]

[subhuman]

[ This would be the perfect place for a comical double take, but all Dante does is draw back a little and lift his chin.

He'd heard bits and pieces to something similar, but nothing right from the source. ]

In prison? How come?

[subhuman]

[ He takes a less than dainty sip of his drink--first things first, and he's more than pleased at the overly sweetened flavor. He can barely taste the alcohol! Just how he likes it.

Dante let's out a satisfied ah as he idly swirls the drink it's a fancy wine (it isn't) and relaxes further back into the bath before addressing his bathmate again. ]

Open bar and open hot tub? Couldn't have picked a better combination.

[gynvael]

[ Oh. Geralt shrugs a shoulder, acknowledging the sentiment. It's not bad. It's one of the better parts of being here. ]

We're owed, after those speeches.

[ He had to sit through that. Doesn't matter that, in a way, the bullshit may be worth it because it's all information, words for him to sort through as needed if anything arises in the future. It still gave him a damn headache.

They've been allowed to wander free since, at least. He's certain someone's keeping an eye on all the Summoned, but it doesn't matter, either. What will they uncover? That half of them believe being captured to another sphere against their will doesn't instill a strong sense of loyalty? ]

[cryptsleeper]

Oh, pick the wrong person out of the well for some arbitrary reason and decide it's easier to just shove them under the castle.

[It is bitter. Practically spat out. Alucard had come from a far too vulnerable spot to not remain bitter and furious about how Thorne treated a portion of those they summoned.

He still wants someone to hurt for that. But that is a deep and private thought for no one else's ears.]

Like I said. A note is getting off easy.

[vixening]

[ it's probably for the better he doesn't voice it, given how short her fuse would be in that argument. to deny magic that you have, when you have it. yennefer might fully explode on him.

for now, though, he seems to take what she says with some effort for consideration. and she's...well, not pleased necessarily, but accepting of that.

except that it also brings a question to her mind - of what he's been doing up until now, of why he still has these doubts, these questions. she watches him as he speaks with some amount of curiosity, before finally asking - ]

What's your name?

[ she does always love to have others in her debts. ]

[subhuman]

Hmm...

[ "The wrong person". He's curious what constitutes the right person, given the interesting breadth of personalities he's seen in Thorne thus far. Dante himself doubts that he fits into that category, but he'd honestly rather be labeled as wrong, because being the right one doesn't usually bode well in his case.

But this man clearly didn't have much of a good time. Can't really say that being in prison is something he'd want to trade places for. ]

Sounds like it. But you made it out, eh?

[gynvael]

[ It is what it is. They each have their talents, and at some point, it'll play a part. Inadvertently or not. He's not here to cast judgement. He already knows, if it comes down to it, he'll do what he needs to for Ciri.

His answer comes easy, at least. ] I kill monsters.

[ Of which there are many around here, so it works out. He has yet to kill any monsters on behalf of Cadens, but who the fuck knows? Maybe he has. Some of their outposts are stationed deep in the desert. That's where he roams, and though they've never explicitly paid him—he only takes contracts from regular folk in the city—perhaps his work has made the roads safer for their soldiers. ]

[vixening]

[ she could be behind that - especially every establishment run by men. let's start there. she could be fully into that.

and while he gets the impression that there is more to her than meets the eye, she gets the distinct impression from him that he can sense that there is more. or maybe not more, but that she knows how to play this game, just as he does. it is both a warning for herself, to be careful and aware when she's around him.

however, the comment he gives does pull a larger smile from her, if only because she can tell to what degree he's being overtly sarcastic. ]

I didn't realize frolicking was all it took to distract you, but it is a good thing to know. [ there may be some low-grade flirtations in her words, if he wants to look for them, but it's hardly anything direct. still, it does appear he knows what it is he's talking about. and knows the expect the correct things from shows of peace, and whether or not yennefer cares about this war and its causes, she would rather spend her time around like minded individuals about the concept than anyone trying for something unattainable.

still, at his comment, she shrugs. her tone is still that of sarcasm, like they are being given a show to distract from the larger issue at hand and she's nearly bored with it. but alas, they are still here. ]

The war will come at some point, whether it's next week or in three decades. But for now we have been thrown a festival so that the Summoned feel free and able to change factions, if they'd been pulled through a well not to their liking. [ another imagined eye roll. because definitely not at all something she may or may not be very well aware of. ] Might as well enjoy the food.

[vixening]

[ that will most likely continue to be a problem, though yennefer is fully aware of the signs wanda gives off that she doesn't want to be the center of attention. and that any attention at all may be too much. it doesn't exactly dissuade yennefer, as she knows the feeling herself, but the sight of that magic. it draws her like a moth to flame.

the woman answers solvunn, and yennefer nods, a quiet ah. that would make sense. yennefer has not explored out into most of the other territories here at the festival, but there is an almost sort of tension at the connection. solvunn. was she one of the people that geralt had meant?

at the question, yennefer blinks out of the thought. ]

Ah- yes. I've kept mostly to the Thorne tents. My name is Yennefer. [ then, after a moment, offering the other woman a small smile. ] And I'm sorry for the small interrogation. Your magic reminds me of someone from home who I haven't seen in a... long time.

[gynvael]

[ If the man had caught him several months ago, Geralt might have denied it outright. As it is, he just looks at him and takes another drink. Gentle is not the word he'd used, but he's occasionally a bit of a bastard, not a heartless monster. He has a soft spot for children like most people. ]

I was among the first. And this world isn't exactly the most foreign to me.

[ He seems to be one of the rare few, in fact, for whom this sphere holds a strange amount of similarities. More magic in Thorne, more odd inventions in the Free Cities, but that's it. Adjusting for him took almost no time at all. It's the climate more than anything that's taken him time to grow used to, where the desert is concerned.

Beyond that: there are kingdoms, nation-states, a variety of rulers and councils. Monsters roaming. Currency comes in the shape of stamped coins. Bladed weapons. It could almost be taken for a version of the Continent. ]

[nadine_he_loves]

I guess it's sort of the same in my world? Arcana are things in Tarot cards, they're supposed to be able to tell your fortune. And we have astrological signs, which have to do with when you're born, but they don't really mean anything.

[They seem to be parts of the same whole, here. The cards used the way astrological signs are. But it's just one of those things that most people did just for fun, with only a select part of the population believing either tarot or star signs had any real power.

Nadine can't say one way or another.]

Neither of them were religious, though. I don't think. But plenty of people in Thorne seem to take the Arcana really seriously.