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

latter days! he had to know it was comin

[cointosser]

[Hector's attempts are noteworthy, but there's not a chance Jaskier wouldn't look around for him, knowing there's a bevy of science and -- well. Animals. And there it is by the animals in Solvunn's tent that Jaskier finds him.

Fortunate for Hector that Jaskier does pass by him once simply because it's easier to find him by the pale hair.

Then he turns back.

Wait. Hold on a moment.

Of course. Of course he couldn't resist a new, fascinating little creature, could he? Jaskier sidles up to Hector (and yes, he couldn't resist either -- his own hair has turned a familiar shade of white, which is rather befitting considering his choice of friends) with a curled grin.

He's doing much better here, where he thrives, away from Cadens and the nightmares he still has there sometimes. And who couldn't forget the terrible things when his handsome lover is here with a shock of blue hair?] Am I going to have to call you my little blueberry now?

[It suits him.]

[petcromancer]

[Hector is in his own little world, eyeing a goat kid and making mental calculations about the logistics of stealing one to bring back to the city with him. He doesn't notice the bard's approach until it is too late.

He looks up and his eyes go wide. Hector hadn't considered that Jaskier would make his own attempt at catching the creature. The white hair is... well, Hector is starting to see the appeal that he teases Jaskier about.]

Oh gods, no. [His brow wrinkles up at the name.] You don't happen to have a hat I could borrow, do you?

[cointosser]

Oh, come on, Hector! Not even once? How about my bluebird?

[He thinks everyone should really just have a bit of fun with it. Why not? Unless it's permanent. To be fair, he hadn't asked. It'd be unfortunate, of course, but... let's say he has insight into what really matters nowadays.

Like seeing Hector again. Saying just the right thing to make him flush.

Jaskier reaches to brush a bit of blue hair instead of offering any real help. That's how he is. And look! He thinks the color matches Hector's eyes very well.] And hide this striking color? I'd never allow it! You really don't like it?

[petcromancer]

['Bluebird' shouldn't, logically, be any better or worse than 'blueberry', but birds are pets and somehow that helps. He's not blushing. shut up.

He looks away as Jaskier plays with his hair.]

It looks ridiculous. Who'd take me seriously like this?

[It's not dignified like Jaskier's silver fox look.]

[cointosser]

[Ooh, there's progress. He didn't immediately throw off bluebird. It might stick if Hector isn't careful. (Though that does bring to mind that this color might be sticking, too. Magic is magic, and he can't say he dislikes seeing such a vibrant color in the mirror or on Hector.)]

Blue is rare in nature, I find, but all the more precious for its rarity. It brings out your eyes, Hector. Like sapphires.

[He'd argue if it matters if he's respected, but clearly it means something to him.] I hear you've made plenty name for yourself with your forge. I don't think respect is anything you need worry about, love.

[petcromancer]

['Love'. Now there's a pet name that has Hector too weak in the knees to protest.]

...you actually like it?

[It's difficult to remain pissed about it when his boyfriend is looking at him with heart eyes. Hector is too soft when it comes to Jaskier. except for the times when he's hard.]

Yours looks good. Natural. If that's what you'll look like when you get older, all your lovers should consider ourselves lucky.

[cointosser]

What, do you think I'm simply being nice?

[Of course he does! Why, he loves any brightly colored thing, and it does bring out his eyes. On top of all that, he thinks there is not a single thing in the world that should make Hector look so unhappy, least of all a run-in with a cute creature. (Jaskier found it cute, at least. Except for pulling out the quills. That had not been fun.)]

Ah. All of them, you say? [It's not exactly a gauche topic, but it's one of the few times Hector's brought them up. The way he sees it, he's here, now, with Hector; has enjoyed his company in his bed and in his home. And, he hopes, further in his life. Jaskier gathers close to him, reaching out like he means to draw Hector's head to his for a kiss.] I've become a bit of a silver fox, one may say. Do you feel lucky, Hector? I feel I've become a bit of what I love. As you yourself pointed out once.

[Those with pale hair certainly are his weakness even still.]

[petcromancer]

Well, yes. But maybe it's not just that.

[He should have guessed, though. Hector probably looks like a peacock, and that's the sort of thing that tends to catch Jaskier's eye.

He leans in and lets his fingers tangle with Jaskier's.]

I am lucky. [He's fully aware of that. Jaskier's favor is the best thing he's ever had.] Although, speaking of, do we need to keep you away from mirrors? Wouldn't want you raising your standards regarding pale-haired men.

[cointosser]

[Hector is not exactly wrong with that line of thinking, considering he even keeps a peacock in the Horizon now. And it is a very peacock-blue. Very handsome creatures, peacocks. A wonder Jaskier doesn't create them as his bird of choice. (Handsome, but sort of useless.)]

And this is where I say, ah, but Hector, I'm the lucky one.

[He steals a kiss from his cheek, holding his hand. It's good to see him. It always is, but out here. Away from Cadens. He has nothing against the city, but he has always moved about. And in any other circumstance, he would be attempting to pull Hector around with him. Traveling, seeing things, collecting stories. Perhaps watching him work on any strays they may find.

Convincing him to not bring back Geralt's latest kill.]

Ah, my standards are higher than ever, believe me! You just happen to exceed them. Though, I'll have you know, having mirrors about is much nicer than having to gaze into the occasional pool of water.

[Hello, he's very medieval.]

[petcromancer]

[Hector would be open to travel, so long as he could bring along his pets and some books... and some tools, and of course, his notes. They, uh, might end up needing a wagon like the ones in Jaskier's horizon.

He stifles a snort of laughter.]

Oh, is that so, Narcissus?

[That's a myth he'll have to tell Jaskier about eventually, but for now, it's a teasing pet name that he finds highly amusing.]

We could argue about luck all day, or we could agree we're both lucky.

[cointosser]

[Hector's laugh only makes him smile.] Ooh, is this some new fancy nickname for me? I like it. Not a clue what it means, but I like it.

[It's Hector's, so he can't imagine it has any negative connotations. (Right??)]

Hmm. As much as I adore arguing for the sake of it, I suppose I can give in. This one time.

[If only because Hector looks much better now he's found his humor again. Perhaps enough so that the hair is no longer such a bother to him. And in that way is Jaskier's mission accomplished.] If you have the time, how about a walk around with me? I heard there's some sort of magic sphere to touch. I'm, er, not exactly why it needs touching, actually.

[petcromancer]

[It may not be the most flattering, but honestly, Jaskier can't go around proclaiming how often he used to stare at himself in still pools of water and NOT invite the comparison. Hector grew up in Greece, he can't help it.]

A tale for another day.

[And a more private setting, so that if Jaskier takes offense, Hector can engage in whatever reassurance is needed to smooth over any ruffled feathers.]

For you, I've got the time. [Though his brow wrinkles at the mention of the orb.] That, I'm relatively sure, is a scam. The magic is how gullible it makes people.

[cointosser]

[That had better be a promise. He's taking it as one.

And he is far from one to complain about quiet, intimate... story-telling.

He laughs behind a hand.] Someone it doesn't surprise me you've already seen it. [And so he means to drag him right back to it. If he's to poke his nose into magical things, scams or no, it does help to have someone with a bit of experience. (And someone less likely to immediately go in to touch said magical things.)] Is there a benefit, then, to having a bunch of grubby hands fondle a nonmagical orb? Perhaps that's someone's, ah... preference. To watch.

[Only a guess.]

[petcromancer]

[Hector snorts.] It just might be. That's as good an explanation as any other. Though it might just be a distraction, something to keep people occupied without needing to risk the safety of a genuine magical artifact.

[But Jaskier's explanation is more fun, so Hector decides it is the one they should go with.] Come on, then. We'll go make some pervert's day by caressing his orb. But you've got to keep me entertained while we wait. The line for the thing is truly awful. Maybe the preference is more widespread than anyone realized.

[cointosser]

[Jaskier may already be snaking his arm around Hector's before he gets the official go-ahead on it. He cannot imagine something more fun than dragging his lover to something completely stupid, like fondling a fake artifact. If it's fake.

Look. If it isn't, he may be able to use whatever added benefit it provides. So it's a win either way.]

I make it a habit to at least get one pervert's rocks off on the daily. [He teases, perhaps caressing Hector's hand with his own while he says it.

Then he groans, abrupt.] What? Why is there a queue for this sort of thing? How long could it possibly take to rub a ball?

[He's leaving himself open there, yes.]

[petcromancer]

Oh, is that what you've been doing? So charitable.

[No wonder Jaskier has such a following by now. Hector gives his hand a squeeze. He can't say he hasn't reaped the benefits of Jaskier's 'charity'.]

Oh, you don't just touch it. You're supposed to ponder it. They cut you off after five minutes. So apparently they're not only into watching, they also like teasing.

[The kink of the day: edging.]

[cointosser]

[Yes, he was right. This thing is completely stupid, and... all right, he's not thrilled about the queue, but. If it's this stupid, he must do it, and he must make Hector suffer alongside him.

It's quality time spent together.]

I'm beginning to think it may be rather easy to, er, slightly swindle the local population. [Which excludes them, obviously. They're going for a laugh, not to... to actually ponder an orb.]

And that I'm learning to new, very interesting things about you. I don't suppose you'll be enamored with watching me ponder and rub an orb for a full five minutes? We'll find some other balls to ponder after if it's... a bit too boring.

[petcromancer]

[It's hard to tell how many of the crowd are here ironically. Is the orb a relic or a meme?]

Yes, people are usually quite suggestible. At least this particular trick seems relatively benign.

[Hector makes a show of looking between Jaskier's hands and the orb beyond the line, set upon its pedestal.]

Hmmm, if anyone could make a show of it, you could. You do have those clever lutist's fingers. But I'd rather watch you on your chosen instrument. Big blue balls don't really do it for me.

[Not that blue balls have ever been an issue with Jaskier around.]

How about you? Do you think you'll be pondering it hard?

[cointosser]

[Jaskier wiggles his fingers when Hector looks at them. They are rather nice digits, thank you for noticing. And he's even wearing some of his fancier rings. (The bone ring is still on a chain around his neck, but considering its initial impressions, he's not tried to offer it a second time.)

He laughs. Godsdammit. Hector really has a sense of humor that matches his exactly.

Read: quite immature.]

Mm. Maybe if you're standing a bit too close, or you pat my ass. But I'd hate to scandalize anyone. I can only assume the Solvunnites are rather kinky and wild, but the Thorneans are a stiff upper-crusts sort. Possibly exactly why they think a single ball is so interesting.

[petcromancer]

[That's his secret, Jaskier, he's an immature man-child. He grins as Jaskier laughs, glad that the bard's good cheer has returned.]

Think you could ponder the ball so thoroughly they send you away early? I bet you could have a Thornean sweating without too much effort.

[Hector's willing to stand as close as he needs to to egg Jaskier on. In fact, he may be pre-gaming, technically adhering to the single file queue for the orb as he slots in behind Jaskier and rests his chin on one of Jaskier's shoulders.]

[cointosser]

[Jaskier's brows rise, followed by a smile that stretches far too wide to be innocent. Make that two immature man-children.]

Oh, my darling, there's an idea. [He tips his head back against Hector's as they gather close like conspirators. And lovers. Lovers slash conspirators.] Shall we bet on it? Whether I can offend the sensibilities of a Thornean in such a time limit?

[Now, if they're to make pondering an orb fun at all, he can only see betting and turning old men on as a double win in fun. Besides, he's far overdue to pull Hector into some mild trouble. Surely they will simply label Jaskier as a sort of wild, untamed whore.

He would love that.] If you win, I'll give you a free ticket to satisfying any craving you have in the moment.

[Jaskier thinks that's very generous indeed.]

[petcromancer]

Oh, you are feeling generous today, aren't you? [He taps a finger to his lips as he thinks over his response.]

If you win... if you win, how about I let you dress me for a day? [Because he could offer sexual favors, but Jaskier has to know by now that he could get those for free, if only he asked. But his clothes... that is a reward Jaskier has to work for.]