EVENT #6: PEACE ON THE HORIZON

[abraxasmods]

Event #6 - EVENT INFO

go to the OOC event info and plotting post

---

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 doesn't hesitate to smile and nod and take the offered arm. There are few times Himeka would turn down a drink and, really, it was her idea. ]

It's rather simple, actually.

[ She's happy to share the details during the short stroll towards the makeshift tavern in the neutral territory. Her stories aren't particularly elaborate and usually to the point, but by now she knows that Jaskier will happily fill in the details himself. ]

I've found that the best way to make connections and get to know the locals is to drink with them. And to gain respect, to out drink them. [ A beat. ] That's how pirates do it anyway.

[cointosser]

Well, you could spice it up a bit.

[He's not complaining. And his head is still heavy from the idea of Estinien, gone, and a silly story with somewhat sordid details (even if he must make them up) is...

He doesn't want a distraction, exactly, but he wants to not dwell on it. He can still love his friend, even from what distance has been forced between them. Even if he must swallow that he may never see him again.

At least he can trust Himeka to help him, if she returns too. (When, he guesses. He cannot imagine many of them want to stay here.)]

Honestly, it's a good way to go about it, but now I'm left wondering how often you are in the presence of pirates.

[aquaveiled]

[ It's a fair question and it is, apparently, not as commonplace amongst certain groups of people. She's heard her fair share of distasteful stories in the Tertiary Settlement to keep some of her history to herself. But here? It makes for a decent story, she supposes. ]

Fairly often, at least when I first ventured out onto land.

[ She says as if that's just how it goes. Which it may be when you're from the sea. ]

It was how I bartered my way from Hingashi to Vylbrand. And Limsa Lominsa is a city-state that's founded and ran by pirates.

[ Once inside the eatery tent, Himeka is happy to plop down at the first available seat. Has she been here a few times already? Yes. Should anyone who knows her be surprised? No, not at all. She pats the spot next to her. ]

I spent about six moons there completely bereft of money and common sense. But I did learn a lot in the end.

[cointosser]

[He feels a bit of a sallow cloud follows them, but he can't imagine Estinien would be the sort to enjoy the idea that a few were wallowing in the loss of him. Worse yet, he's not sure who is to blame for it: whether Thorne, or Ambrose, or mages, or Destiny.

So. Stories about pirates is what they settle on for a conversation, and the seat right next to Himeka is where he settles himself without a thought.

It's clear the people here know him just as well. If not for drinking, then for lingering around and singing a few ditties for the barkeep and the maids who bring about the drinks. Everyone deserves a spot of music, after all.]

So the final answer is "rather often." [He signals over someone to grab them drinks. For this moment, he's allowing himself to enjoy -- wine it is.] Well, I suppose I can't imagine a better place to learn how to keep oneself alive, considering the nature of pirates.

[aquaveiled]

[ Himeka is hardly picky about what they are served, as long as it's satisfying. Estinien wasn't a drinker more than he had become used to in the military, but she made a point to invite him to the tavern with her back in Solvunn. He may not have participated in the contests as she did, but he was always there to cheer her on when she was in town.

When they're given their glasses, she tries to think back on it fondly rather than lament he isn't here to toast with. She has to remember him returning is good.

It's good. Because he's returned. ]

Mhmm.

[ She cups the glass in her hands as she nods, carefully wrapping her tail around where he sits on the bench. ]

You have to learn how to lose before you can win, right?

[cointosser]

[Instead it is Jaskier offering to make a toast to their friend, more silent than not.

He would have liked to see him. One more time, in the flesh. Though he has a feeling Estinien would have hated this summit. The idea of it. The Thorneans here trying to pretend they were good, and righteous, and an attractive option.

Estinien might have tried to divebomb the stage, now he thinks of it.]

I don't know. I've never lost before. [He gives a sly little smile as he takes a sip, glancing down to her tail. The scales, even here, are as he remembers the brooch in the Horizon. Lovely, the way they catch the light, even the magical ones in the tent.] I'm beginning to think your adventures may be enough to fill tomes, not a single book. Something titled like, "A Series of Shenanigans."

[aquaveiled]

[ A silent toast which she mimics in kind, taking a slow and thoughtful drink. Estinien wouldn't want them to make a big deal out of things, but it feels wrong not to remember him as well.

Actually, in part...it feels nice to think of him and feel allowed to miss him. Not that anyone has told her that she shouldn't, it's all Himeka trying to do her best not to dwell on it and push forward. Having a kindred spirit miss him right along with her when everyone else in Solvunn never really knew him...

It's. Very much needed. She needed this.

His quip gets a raised brow and bemused smile of her own. She doesn't believe him, but she doesn't call him out on it. ]

Lucky man, or very talented.

[ Himeka takes another sip of her wine. ]

That title feels a lot more apt than some of the others. It's a little weird to think of a book being written about you at all, you know?

[ Even though she realizes that the memoirs of Heavensward has done more good than anyone could have imagined. ]

Although some things should be left to mystery.

[cointosser]

Oh, I think you know which it is.

[He hopes. Don't pick the wrong answer, Himeka, or he'll be very upset.

He leans in against her, suspecting she will not mind given her tail comfortably around him, like another arm. It's warm. Er. Not literally. But the gesture in it. He misses Estinien terribly, but he thinks it will be even worse to say farewell to Himeka, knowing he may not see her again for ages. Nowhere but the Horizon, or in letters painted across a wall or table.

At least he can contact her. In his world, he could go years without seeing a friend.]

But flattering? [It's a true inquiry. She isn't interested? In her adventures being committed to word?] I suppose. I wouldn't mind everyone knowing my life, but I must admit, I feel words wouldn't do it justice. It would turn out a bit boring.

[He glances at her, his finger winding around the lip of his wine glass.] Ooh. Mystery. Like what? Give me a hint.

[aquaveiled]

Do I? Hmm...mayhaps a little bit of both.

[ Was that too honest? Ah well. ]

Which are you feeling now?

[ Lucky or talented?

She doesn't mind at all. If anything, it's reassuring that he's really there. It's strange when she really thinks that most of their interactions haven't actually been in person but on this other strange plane of existence that they enter and leave like a dream. It feels like she's known Jaskier longer than a few depressing visits in a dungeon.

Himeka leans against him in turn with a soft hum. ]

No, I imagine a story of your life would have to be as catchy as your songs. A full musical, mayhaps? And you could even decide who to cast as yourself, which could be fun.

[ She catches the movement of his finger as she tips her glass to her lips, taking a hearty drink. Wine doesn't last long around her no matter the occasion. ]

Hmmm...

[ What would make a decent enough story while also not being the worst thing to admit to? She taps her chin. ]

One was related to pirates. Or rather, a certain pirate...and another involves bees.

[cointosser]

[Ouch. That could edge towards insulting, but it's Himeka, and he's taking it on the more complimentary side.

The question is meant to be teasing, but it does give him pause. Maybe it's the wine already getting to him (he's barely even sipped at it). It's really the weight of his knew knowledge. Not only Estinien, but the memories that lay heavy at the back of his mind, no matter how much he'd like to forget about them.]

Lucky this time. If I'm being truthful.

[Lucky Yennefer showed up as she did. Lucky he is alive one more day. He lifts his glass and takes a mighty gulp. Maudlin again. He can't stand being maudlin. It doesn't suit him.]

A musical could work, if I played myself. No one, of course, could mimic me just right.

[Which may destroy the point, but...]

A certain pirate. [They'll come to the bees one day.] A famous one?

[aquaveiled]

[ She rarely softens her words even when she ought to. But given that it is Jaskier, she probably means it positively. Probably.

His demeanor says just as much if not more than his words do. Though he has had much on his shoulders in the past when they have met, there is something different now. A new weight of sorts, or mayhaps it's an extra bit of tiredness in his eyes even after an exciting performance.

Himeka rarely softens her words, but she does pick up when someone may need something a little extra. She gently nudges his knee with her own. ]

Mm, I was going to say between the two of us that I was the lucky one.

[ OF course he would star in his own musical. Why did she entertain the thought of anything different? ]

You'll write and star in it? Then I am hereby putting in my audition for the role of Geralt. I think I have his disposition down well.

[ Cue her doing her best stern and stoic brooding man face. She holds it for a few seconds before melting back seamlessly to her usual self. She taps her nose with her index finger. ]

On the nose, right?

[ That deserves another drink. Is she already almost done with her wine? Yes, yes she is. ]

Not terribly famous, but well-known enough. She had quite the reputation in the southern seas, this Pirate Captain.

[ Oh yes, it gets juicier. ]

[cointosser]

[Her answer does tend him towards a true smile, as does her knee knocking his. They're close, the warmth of her body against his, and even her tail has its own comforting sort of weight, the tip flicking back and forth. No, they needn't be different. They are both rather lucky.]

My god, please! And I'll make him come! It's about time he sees what it's really like, being around him.

[Himeka, of course, will do a perfect impersonation.]

Absolutely. Throw a few grunts in there and you've got all his lines down, too.

[Ah, so is he. Apparently the talk is drying his throat, but the company makes him pour another glass to prolong the time they can have together. And yet the longer it goes, the heavier the thought it is that they will part again.

He has people waiting for him. And even with Estinien gone, he cannot imagine she does not have those waiting for her.] Only the one captain? Himeka, I'm beginning to think you're leading me along. Terribly slowly.

[aquaveiled]

[ The knowledge that Geralt would find a total of none amusement from it is what makes it all the better. What's a little teasing between friends, right? (He did get sucked into the big F-word in the end--Friendship. The Final Frontier.) ]

Oh I've known some good grunters in my time. I'll be sure to get practice in before we begin rehearsals.

[ If anyone in Solvunn happens upon Himeka walking about and grunting to herself, well, there are definitely stranger things about.

She will gladly take any refills being offered. It's easy to forget how much can be put away when you're distracted by other things, but Himeka isn't planning on keeping track anyway. He's an easy person to be around, the sort that she feels you could lose yourself to hours in good stories and warm conversation. Were there more opportunity to do that in person she would take it.

She could really use more of that these days.

Speaking of... ]

Well, she had a crew. [ She takes a sip. ] But they weren't invited into her quarters when she was teaching me how to play poker and fuck properly.

should we wrap up in the next few for future shenanigans?

[cointosser]

Us truly fascinating people seem to attract them, don't we? [Barring the very true fact that Jaskier was the one who sought out Geralt's company, that he was the one to follow him... but if you ask Jaskier, it's on both of them, because Geralt never got rid of him when he could.

And now he cannot. And he will not. That much has become clear.

Jaskier chokes on his next sip, caught somewhere between abject surprise and a laugh.] Melitele's tits, warn me next time! [Clearly it's a jest, and he bumps her shoulder with his own. His words are not slurring, not quite, but there is an easy warmth in them now, and his laugh comes easy.] Mm, not that I'm entirely opposed to a whole crew, but I can see the attraction of a bit of private frivolity between hero and... pirate captain. That must be in a book somewhere, yes?

sounds good! he can keep buying her drinks and she will deposit him back to geralt

[aquaveiled]

[ Himeka chuckles at that. She won't deny it, either. She's also forced her friendship on some of her quieter companions, albeit in probably a more patient way. ]

Mmm, you're right. They are lucky to have us as well.

[ He chokes and Himeka just gives him a light pat on the back. Don't waste good wine by spitting it out, Jaskier. ]

Melitele's tits...are nice, I take it?

[ She takes a hearty drink from her own glass, her tail starting to flick a little more lazily now as the alcohol settles in her blood. It's a good feeling. There's a reason that after all was said and done she decided to chance the drink once again.

You know, after one too many assassination attempts. ]

Oh of course, just not in mine. Though now you are the only other person that is aware so I assume that you won't go running off and making it into a song, right?

she'll need to carry him but it's fine

[cointosser]

[Truly, they are. As he always says: Geralt would be dead in a ditch somewhere without him. Still wearing terribly drab, stitched-together clothes.

He laughs again.] Well. I've yet to see them myself, unfortunately, but all the stories certainly regale the sight of them.

[He estimates they're possibly no finer than Himeka's, but he's keeping that to himself. Obviously the point of their excursion in his hot tub was not for him to stare. (She is lovely, though.)]

Oooh. In that case, I could possibly be persuaded to keep it to myself. [He knocks back the rest of his drink.] No. I rarely make my own escapades the topic of song, either. Some things are more enjoyable when kept to oneself.

[He flags down an attendant and gets more drinks sent their way. If he's to have a good time here, it should at least be with good company.]