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

[standvastig]

[Hendrik's agreement comes in the form of silence, his hands resting on top of his folded piece of clothing as he stares contemplatively at his hands. Today was a rare day of doing nothing "productive," or finding work that would in some way keep him busy. He hasn't indulged much at all despite the wealth of Thorne.]

Have you learned anything about it? That large object?

[leitstern]

[Hendrik is a plain man, simple with his emotions. He watches the man stare at his hands; an uncomfortable display of restless boredom. The act is uncomfortable enough to provoke him to inspect his own. He turns them over in his lap with a puzzled frown.

It is enough to divert his attention. Eight seconds pass before he finds himself. Five more before he discovers words.]

Enough to find it all preposterous. Common knowledge would have us believe that monument is the source of all life. For each and eery world entire.

[He looks puzzled for a moment and starts talking aloud.]

Perhaps it and Yggdrasil one and the same? I should hardly understand it. Yggdrasil is...

[Dead? He sounds uncertain. The Luminary survived meaning Her power had not been entirely subsumed. But if Erdrea is dying because of missing Her presence does their presence here even matter?]

[standvastig]

[Hendrik's expression twists at the mentioning of the World Tree, and he raises his head to look over at Jasper. He would not have thought to make the connection at all, and he wordlessly clenches and unclenches his hands as his mind whirls at the possibility.]

Yggdrasil fell from the sky. We presumed whatever that master of yours did destroyed what remained.

[But that was unconfirmed and easily taken as fact when despair began ebbing through the populace. Sickness and the dead rising from the ground did not help matters. How they managed so long in spite of the uncertainty was a testament to the people's willingness to hold out hope.]

Such a connection would imply that one being in danger means all are in danger.

[But that thing, that Singularity, was still intact in this world. He had stared at it in the distance not long after arriving, seeing as it was not something he had ever seen from Castle Thorne.]

I... Can that possibly be true?

[leitstern]

[Jasper turns his gaze aside and looks across the tent, burdening himself with the shame of responsibility. His unhappiness of speaking about the events surrounding the world tree is evident - but he finds himself willing to speak because he was responsible. His pride refuses to allow him to remain silent when he might be accused of cowardice.

But speaking is hardly what his old friend requires at this moment. What he seems to need is hope. That is why he fingers his hair whilst his eyes around. How can he, of all men, inspire hope?]

Well, it makes more sense than any other explanation, surely?

[standvastig]

I suppose.

[Hendrik is reluctant to accept that thought as it is, even if it is a hopeful one. It helps him voice his next thought.]

Then the next step should be learning more about that monolith. If it does indeed connect in some way to Yggdrasil, that could pave the way to ensuring our world survives.

[He pauses at that, eyes slowly focusing again on Jasper. He knows that what he asks next, and the answer he receives, will shape whatever tentative peace they have between them.]

Are we aligned in that goal?

[leitstern]

[Jasper stares towards Hendrik with a creased brow and wide eyes. Fingers clench his clothes and begin adjusting his hair. Every word makes him sweat. Expectations weigh down his chest. Questions like these - emotional ones - make him fraught as he struggles to process and comprehend. He makes a strenuous effort to discover a reason to disinvolve himself but finds himself wanting to be involved.

His attention focuses upon green eyes. They make him concentrate. Fingers move to clench his arm but barely hold on. It becomes a hard task to care for the world tree's plight but he longs to work beside his old friend, rather than against him as life had ever been.

He deliberates further but only for one second. It is important this man survives. If Erdrea must flourish in kind so be it.]

Yes.

[Should he be graciously accepted. He returns to struggling to find words.]

[standvastig]

[It is clear within seconds that Jasper had not expected his question, and he stares at the expressiveness that he has so rarely seen in years past. It's different from the guilt and negativity that he had previously seen, and he's not sure what to make of it.]

...Good.

[He takes a deep breath following the murmur, reaching up to scratch his beard in thought. He doesn't particularly want to dig up the issues that still plague them, even if he knows it's necessary to address them.]

I am glad we have at least that in common.

[leitstern]

[Fingers release his arms, grasping his hair to squeeze and wring. Droplets of water soak his skin but he holds his hair before him, shielding his body in a protective manner. He feels little desire to dig up the past but common belief makes their past an issue he cannot avoid.]

Likewise.

[He acknowledges their accordance without warmth or fanfare. They are hardly close as they were to call each other friend.]

Do you suppose visiting the monolith would be a good start?

[standvastig]

[He lets the moment pass without comment. There is unfortunately unfinished business between them, and if he lingers on that thought too long he will only frustrate himself.]

Yes, that would make sense. We should take a look at it in person.

[Even if there are other ways to access it, he would be remiss to completely skip out on physically visiting the strange structure.]

We will have to see what our ... hosts will be willing to give for such a journey. I have no idea how far away this is from Thorne territory.

[leitstern]

[Jasper looks around the tent - and thinks of stepping outside for a moment for a greater view of the world. There is a curiosity to visiting something so ancient and profound. From a time before history. It all fills him with a sense of wonder that he had felt more as a child.

He turns towards Hendrik once more. There is that same sense of wonder getting to learn about his old friend again.]

Maps of the realm detail a week's travel. One week there. One week to return.

[He sighs in thought.]

All we require are provisions and horses. Should be simple, I dare say.

[standvastig]

You believe so? I was not aware our hosts would borrow out horses for such a length of time. Especially for newcomers.

[He frowns and looks over his shoulder towards the shuttered tent opening. They may be catered to as Summoned, but it was clear just from his interaction with Ronan that even the Summoned are not all treated equally.]

Perhaps they will approve if this is some test of loyalty.

[leitstern]

[The observation prompts him to incline his head; towards the tent and towards wherever their future leads once they step foot outside. He looks towards the present once more, towards his new companion. His confused expression is unable to share his gratitude for getting to see him again.

One short moment of confusion is replaced by inspiration. His simple solution to the problem Hendrik has brought before them.]

A simple test, I imagine, to ride and return within a fortnight. One visit alone is hardly suspicious given how we come and go freely with some kind of meditation.

[standvastig]

Mm. I suppose a few horses and a few meals from a seemingly endless banquet will be trivial to them.

[And he supposes it will do a lot to settle the concern at the back of his mind that they are still in fact prisoners, despite the amount of freedom they seem to have out here.

...Strange how they so easily fell into planning like this. Like it had not in fact been years since he worked so closely with Jasper. Like there were no a multitude of deaths that could be associated with Jasper's choices.

But it is not the first time he has done something that would be questionable considering Jasper's actions. He quietly sifts the folds of his surcoat.]

[leitstern]

A trivial price indeed compared to the aim of securing loyalty.

[With one hand grasping his chin, Jasper attempts to make sense of their position. Working together after brief moments of working against each other. Colluding despite his collusion with the Lord of Shadows. Perhaps the necessity of a familiar face is all important in this strange land? Perhaps there is some desire to understand the other.

He watches his old friend inspect his coat, inspecting him in turn.]

It is a gentle hand that attempts to manipulate. We ought consider ourselves fortunate.

[standvastig]

[Hendrik's search of his surcoat is put on pause as he hears Jasper's comment about manipulation. "Attempting to manipulate" is not something he particularly wants to hear from Jasper, considering what has happened before.]

What are you talking about?

[leitstern]

[Jasper diverts his attention. Hands glide across his robes towards the pin attached to his chest. Fingers tap it gently, grasping to present in emphasis.]

Do you suppose wearing these is a show of force?

[He wonders aloud in a clear manner his old friend might grasp.]

Our benefactors are hardly the only ones frequenting this idiotic spectacle. Whose benefit are they for, I wonder?

[standvastig]

[Silence. Hendrik looks steadily at Jasper as he asks his questions aloud, frowning as he realizes he's being guided towards an answer.]

You can state it plain, Jasper.

[The mild, more neutral tone he had been using earlier, when they spoke of what they had in common, is gone, replaced by annoyance.]

[leitstern]

[Cold silence. Accusing words. Jasper frowns at Hendrik but closes his eyes; he cannot deny the man his anger.]

We are here to serve as the velvet glove around a closed fist.

[He waits a moment. This is not going to be enjoyable for either of them - but he must press on.]

Do you agree to be manipulated again?

[standvastig]

[He doesn't avert his eyes as he waits for an answer from Jasper. With everything that has happened, telling the man to speak plainly seems like a minor request.]

We will be manipulated wherever we go. The only way not to be manipulated in a world we do not belong is to hide away, cover our ears, and shut our eyes.

[It's a very hardened approach from a man who previously had no concerns or even thoughts about possibly being manipulated in his hunt of the Darkspawn. A far cry from even the young man who had knelt to receive promotion to the highest rank of the kingdom army.]

[leitstern]

[Jasper says nothing and takes no action. He looks towards his old friend, looking at himself as suspicions bait his thoughts. Accusations needle his skin. Implications shake his confidence. His free and eager will accepts them all - sorting those most worrying into the bottom of the pile.

Hendrik had not belonged in the world he and his master had created. He had closed his eyes and covered his ears; oblivious to being directed like a useful cur. His partner had been complicit in compounding his misery - and in result he himself had closed his eyes and his ears to his countrymen. He had freed himself from manipulation ensuring Hendrik could not close his eyes to the monster he had become.

Yet that man speaks to him after everything. Had he been manipulated to close his eyes towards what his old friend was like? He cannot comprehend it. Not yet.]

That sounds drastic. I would simply advise you to understand the kind of man you are.

[He cannot long for the optimistic man his companion might have become. It was down to his actions, after all.]

[standvastig]

[The silence stretches, and for a moment Hendrik considers speaking again. But Jasper is the one who broached this topic, and he has at least stated part of his opinion on the matter in kind.

It isn't a topic he expected Jasper to raise, but perhaps he should have; for all of his recent behavior, the Jasper he once knew was bold and unapologetic about his opinions -- which had resulted in them arguing quite a bit in their youth. It remains difficult to reconcile familiar traits with unfamiliar actions.

The comments result in a frown, but Hendrik does not seek to press the "advice" that Jasper gives. "What kind of man do you think I am?"]

I refuse to turn a blind eye to the idea that helping this world will somehow help ours. If that means I have to watch my back every step of the way, then I will.

[leitstern]

[Hendrik swears to protect himself - from every enemy and angle - and Jasper finds himself listening in boredom. This man is resolute as ever; unhappily also guileless as ever. He sighs to himself about it and closes his eyes. Must it fall upon him to ensure the man has an extra pair of eyes? When this man failed to find eyes for his welfare in turn? The dilemma is impossible to solve and in the end he chooses to set it aside.

To forget and forgive only in this moment. It means more work, more worries, more concern but in some ways it is nice to know his old friend has not changed.]

My dear Hendrik, should you alone watch your back a dagger would surely be within it come the morning. I hope you understand what I am saying?

[standvastig]

[Sitting straight as he already is, Hendrik can only pull his shoulders back and stare at Jasper as he practically drawls with his response. The level of familiarity is undeniable, but is it something that he wants to encourage?

The fact of the matter is that he had already presumed Jasper's inclusion. Presumed many things. And the implication of that asked question seemed to be that they were not aligned in thought.

His eyes drift away, back to the surcoat on his lap. He should stop presuming familiarity.]

Do I have your support?

[leitstern]

[Jasper is silent once again. Emotions turn inwards as feelings turn outwards - thoughts focused upon his old friend. The request is similar to one heard minutes before. Being of the same goal. Being of the same mind.

This simple question reminds him they are not. His eyes narrow in focus, watching his companion fret. Over this new world and his place within it. No place at all. It seems he must calm the man now as back when they were children. But he believes that, too, has no place in the present.]

Only if you would accept it.

[He continues on: sharing something he wants to say.]

I offer it regardless but the decision is hardly mine to make.

[standvastig]

[He nods broodingly at the open offer -- help if he is willing to take it. To admit at this juncture that he had already assumed the help was accepted would be ... probably foolish.]

It is accepted. With gratitude.

[He shifts his legs, lifting his head with a somber expression.]

I believe that is enough for tonight. Unless there was more you wished to discuss.