abraxaslogs | [OPEN] Solvunn Meet & Greet

Entry tags:

[OPEN] Solvunn Meet & Greet

WHO: Anyone in Solvunn!
WHAT: Mingle Meet & Greet for new and old Solvunn Summoned!
WHEN: Early through Mid-August
WHERE: Primary Settlement: The Drunken Lamb and Gardsbruk Farm

[ ooc; This is an open log so feel free to jump in and make your own top-levels! You do not need to have CR with Himeka, Wanda, Nero, or Thor to stop by the farm, but you are free handwave a word of mouth to get your character there or to the tavern if needed. ]

i. The Drunken Lamb

If walls could talk, these certainly would. The Drunken Lamb, an old staple in the Primary Settlement is where many go to relax and chat after a long day's work. A cup of locally brewed ale and good conversation are a great way to pass the evening and some nights get livelier with heated arguments over local produce and game, and friendly contests over mead and cards. A few nights a week there may also be a musical performance by a bad or just an impromptu sing-along when someone gets the urge. Luckily if you're drunk enough knowing the words may not be necessary.

Don't forget to say hello to the there is an old ewe who hangs out by the front door, either outside or inside depending on the weather. Her name is Myrtle and if she spits on you it's considered good luck.

Though it is usually filled with locals, this evening has been set aside as a special gathering spot for the Summoned, old and new. A few locals will still be in attendance either out of habit or a curiosity about the commune's newest additions, but most of the patrons will be your fellow Summoned. As you enter the Tavern, you will be greeted by Wanda who hands you your very own "welcome goodie bag". (That is until the evening drags on. Later guests will find a table of bags with a sign that says "take one" because she can only handle so much.) In it you will find nice soaps from Wanda, a handwritten note that states, "Call upon Thor, the God of Thunder, and Nero, a slightly less mighty but still capable man, to move your heaviest objects about. Redeemable Once", a couple custom tea bags from Himeka, and an expertly drawn brochure explaining all you need to know about Solvunn in minimal detail, by the local acclaimed artist Nero. There is also one small slip of paper with a number on it. Be sure to keep it handy. Now you have been officially welcomed.

The atmosphere inside the tavern is warm, stone walls lit by torches and candles. Everyone is welcomed by the local tavern owner standing behind the counter. You're free to grab a drink or order dinner right away should you like. The tavern boasts some of the best mead and meat pies in the Primary Settlement. It's a great time to chat and get to know your new neighbors, but your hosts for the evening also have a few things planned.

If you want to try your hand at the tavern's beloved mead drinking contest, you are highly encouraged. Himeka has been the reigning champion for several months now, but Thor is a terrifying competitor in this own right. They will be facing off one another as well as taking on other Summoned who are also capable of making poor decisions. But worry not! If alcohol isn't your thing (or even if it is), there are a few card and dice games available for any patrons to take up and play with one another. There is also a knife throwing board on the far wall. Because you know knives and mead work well together. For the musically inclined, Wanda has created some simple instruments for anyone to give us an impromptu performance, or an instrument of choice upon request. Sing us a song, piano-man!

Towards the end of the evening, you'll find out that the number you received is actually a raffle ticket! You have a chance to win one of the following prizes...

A gigantic wheel of cheese from the Gardsbruk farm.
A bottle of ten year-aged ale, donated by the bartender.
A "date" with Thor.
A high-quality shawl by Wanda.
A knife with a leather sheath, made from the local blacksmith

If you want to put your character in for the raffle, please reply to this comment and we will roll for winners!

ii. Gardsbruk Farm

On the roads between the Primary and Secondary Settlements sits Gardsbruk Farm. A once thriving homestead servicing the community and housing several generations of the Gardsbruk family had fallen into disarray. Left to the care of Maeve and Declan Gardsbruk, the twins had initially hesitantly allowed the help of local summoned in their efforts to restore the farm, but now they are active and grateful supporters of the Summoned in the community. In recent months the farm has been seeing a burst of activity and vitality in the surrounding farmland, finally looking more and more like it once had in generations past.

Green pastures in the height of summer are sprinkled with some brown grass during droughts, but these rarely last more than a day or two. A few crops may be planted for family use, but the main stock of this farm is sheep.

And there are sheep! You may be greeted by up to two dozen sheep when you enter the grounds, though not all of the livestock may welcome your presence. There are a few rowdy goats that are wandering about too, and a large brown goat named Eli seems to be particularly discerning of residents. Be careful you don't upset him.

But why head out to this farm at all? Well, the Gardsbruk Farm has put on something of a Farmer's Market! Though such things happen frequently in town as is the nature of the community, this one in particular shows off not just the Gardsbruk's specific wares, but that of the Summoned that have been helping them out as well. Sheep are their main livestock so there are huge piles of wool available for purchase or trade. Getting your garments ready for the coming winter is a must! And if you'd like you can learn how to shear a sheep or you can even learn to spin your own woolen thread. A few shawls, hats, and tunics are on display as well--local artisans who made garments from the Gardsbruk wool, just to show how pleasant and durable it is.

If you're looking for snacks and you're not lactose intolerant (or feeling adventurous), then you needn't look further than the array of cheeses made from the farm's sheep, goats, and single bovine resident named Agatha. If you ask Nero nicely he may introduce you to his favorite roommate. If you want something to snack on right now, there are a number of rustic hand and whole-pies available for purchase, made by Himeka. They come in savory meat, cheese, and root vegetable varieties as well as more sweet honey and seasonal fruit pies. She may throw in something extra if you praise her cooking but she wants your honest opinion.

Of course with all the goats roaming about, this wouldn't be complete without goat yoga! Yes, goat yoga. Wanda will be leading those who are interested in a series of different stretches ~~that she saw once on YouTube~~ that will inevitably be interrupted by baby goats who would rather sit on you. Some sheep may get in on the action as well.

For those who are less inclined to finding peace of mind and want to hit something, a sparring ring has been marked off closer to the fields. Thor will be watching (and judging) participants as they face off one another in friendly bouts of hand to hand wrestling or with wooden swords and sticks. No magical powers allowed here! Though Eli may look like he wants in on the action. Be careful.

As the day turns into evening, the market itself will close down as a large bonfire is lit. Everyone still on the farm will be welcome to gather around, share hot ciders and ale, as well as roast some tasty treats on sticks. Food is always better on a stick. A time to wind down, share stories, and thank everyone for joining and being a part of what Solvunn has to offer.

You know. Other than all the weird gods and cult stuff.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

i. The Drunken Lamb

Billy showed up late enough that Wanda was no longer handing out the welcome packages, which was probably for the best all things considered. He grabs a welcome package off the table and surveys the rest of the tavern; it's pretty much exactly what he thought a tavern in this part of this world would look like. It's sort of like stepping into an actual game of D&D and not for the first time he wishes he could turn to Teddy and say that. Instead, he makes his way over to the bar and the owner asks him what he would like. He starts to order and then he hesitates.

Once that’s sorted out, Billy takes his dinner to an empty seat at a table. He’s taking in his surroundings people watching, he’s going to steer clear of the drinking contest, he’d like to keep his wits about him, and the knife throwing, because he would also like to not maim anyone when he’s still only been here a few days. Cards seem safe, maybe, and he would have to participate in the drinking contest if anyone expects him to sing. Although, drunk enough he does do a very good rendition of 'Killer Queen' if he does say so himself.

ii. Bardsbruk Farm

Billy had been invited to check out the farm so here he is. He is in fact greeted by many sheep and he can’t help but smile (because sheep) and steer clear of the goat that seems to be glaring at some other people as they walk through the gates.

He wasn’t sure what he was expecting but this isn’t it. The farmer’s market is bigger than any he’s been to before (of course they are Billy you live in NYC and on a spaceship). He spends most of his time strolling through the markets stopping to talk to people and try some cheese. He’s not really sure he would be good at shearing a sheep but he sits down to learn to spin his own wool. That seems like a skill he could use here.

He stops for some pies, which smell amazing, and his eyes light up at goat yoga. Or maybe just at baby goats. He’s trying to figure out how he can smuggle one out with him because baby goats, and he could probably use the company. He might even name it Teddy…don’t judge him.

At the end of the night, he’s sitting around the bonfire nursing a hot cider and some food on a stick and open to talk to anyone who might sit down beside him.

[ Thor has been hanging out at the bar where he likes to attempt to drink Himeka under the table (and fail), but with the drinking contest a ways off yet, he's nursing an ale and a very sizeable lunch besides.

He expects some of the new summoned to wander in from time to time, so when Billy starts to order Thor waves at the owner, who nods at him in turn. You'd better wear a tight shirt to the drinking contest if you want to buy lunch for all of your new friends, Odinson.

Thor rolls his eye, clearly taking it as a good-natured jest. He'll stop by later with some trade goods from the farm. The food doesn't really need to be paid for at all, but it does engender some mutual good will. He turns to Billy with a broad smile and raises his tankard of ale. ] Order whatever you like. None here would begrudge you enough to eat and drink. I take it you're one of the new summoned?

Edited 2022-08-09 15:50 (UTC)

[It's not that Billy missed him when he approached the bar, it's hard to miss someone like Thor, it's just that Billy tries to steer clear of people who look like Thor until they prove themselves to be friendly. Hazards of the job...and also childhood bullying. Fortunately, Thor is welcoming and it immediately puts Billy at ease.

He didn't miss the owner calling him Odinson, and now that he's looking at him directly Billy thinks if he squints he seems a little familiar, but, that's gotta be a coincidence. Right? The just sorta looks like his favorite Norse God. Right?

Billy returns his smile easily. ]

Thank you, that's good to know. Do you recommend anything? [ Billy has no idea what is even on the menu. ] Yeah, I'm Billy, good to meet you.

Lamb stew -- or the cheese plate, if you prefer not to eat... [ Thor points toward the door with his knife, where Eli the goat stands guard, looking ornery as ever.

He lets Billy handle his order, and once that's squared away Thor inclines his head toward the seat beside him. ] Thor Odinson. I'd be glad of the company, but I won't stop you if you're eager to be on your way.

[ Billy usually has no objections to eating meat, but Eli is staring at him and judging him, he just knows it. He opts for the cheese plate this go around, and a pint of whatever ale they are serving.

He settles down next to Thor. ] Billy Kaplan.

[ He pauses, and looks Thor over. ] Thor as in god of thunder?

[ Eli judges everyone as if they've eaten his brethren, whether that's true or not, but Thor can't blame Billy for deciding on the cheese plate instead. ]

Yes, that's the one. [ He replies, seemingly nonplussed. He looks Billy over curiously, as if trying to place him. ] Have we met before?

[ Billy is used to judgy Eli's, it's fine.

Billy looks him over. God or Superhero? Or both? He's not sure how to come out and ask a person if they have saved the world before. ]

That's cool, do you have a hammer? [ He's not sure that's much better. Though he could have asked about one of the times Loki made him crossdress so this was probably a safer question. ]

I'm not sure I'm doing this right.

_{[The complaint comes from Billy's side as the man he's seated next to in the wool spinning class seems to have some trouble. The wool is tangled in his bony fingers and seems to have taken on a spider web pattern--which looks quite nice but it isn't what he wanted!]}

Could you help me get untangled?

[ At some point in his life Billy is sure that a talking skeleton would have scared him. Now, well, he just sort of blinks at Jack for a moment before his eyes move to the wool thread and he lets out a soft laugh. ]

It looks cool though. What were you going for?

[ He puts his own spool down and he reaches out, trying to help him unweave the web. ]

A skein of yarn like the instructor showed us. Something like this happened before when I tried a new craft. It's very troublesome!

_{[Jack holds his hands still as Billy helps him.]}

I'm Jack.

I can imagine. I'm not sure if I'm the person to ask how I managed it because I'm surprised mine seems to be right. But we can start over and see what happens.

[ He finished untangling the yarn and handed it all back to Jack. ]

Its nice to meet you Jack, I'm Billy.

_{[He accepts his un-spiderwebbed yarn gratefully.]}

Thank you. It's nice to meet you, Billy! What's your favorite candy?

_{[You know, a normal thing to ask a strange kid. Jack already has Halloween on his mind and what kinds of treats he needs to hoard to hand out for trick-or-treaters.]}

[ Himeka is spending most of her time properly situated at her table of treats. One of her favorite things to do is to feed people and getting to see so many new faces walk by--potential mouths to feed--only makes her excited at the possibilities.

She recognizes the young man as one of the newly summoned attendees from the tavern night. Once he's at her table, she waves cheerily at him. ]

I know a hungry face when I see one.

[ Billy shoots her a smile when she greets him. ]

That obvious? It all smells and looks really good.

[ Her smile widens. Of course she will gladly take (honest) compliments for her hard work! But filling empty bellies is really one of her favorite things to do. ]

Well, since you're new around here, I may offer a free sample. Anything in particular tickle your fancy?

Oh not a fair question if I can't say everything. Which is your favorite?

[ He wouldn't know what to choose really, but he will happily take a free sample if she is offering. And thank her profusely because he's a good boy like that. ]

[ ooc; Sorry for the late reply! I had to take a bit of an emergency hiatus but I am back now if you want to continue. If not, I totally understand! ]

My favorite? Hmm...

[ It's hard to pick just one considering she made them all and she'd like to think that they're of similar quality. But if she has to choose one... ]

Have you tried sweet potato and honey?

[ She cuts off a small square from her "sample slice" and holds it out to her guest. ]

It's both sweet and hearty, but not too sweet. The honey keeps the sweet potato moist as well.

"Ah, Billy. Good to see you." There's a small wave from the man at a table across from Billy, with his own plate of food, and a set of cards he'd taken the liberty of procuring. "Would you care to join me for a round or two?" They don't seem to be a bad way to pass some of the time this evening.

Billy grins at Ben. “Hey Ben, good to see you as well.” His eyes travel over to the cards and he nods. “Sure, why not, though I’m not sure I’ll know the same games but I’m open to learn.”

[ steve just happens to be right at the bar when billy asks the question, and he also just happens to actually have an answer, something he had stumbled his way through himself not long ago. so that also means that he's going to lean in close to the boy at his side, pointing to the dinner and drink. ]

You can get a job, if you want. They're apparently used to us showing up and needing to do something for money. [ steve waves and smiles at the barmaid behind the counter in an easy, charming, friendly sort of way, and she nods and turns away, apparently okay with billy just. not paying for now. or maybe it's going on some kind of tab steve doesn't realize he opened? who knows. ]

But I think for tonight it's being taken care of? Who knows. [ that's when steve turns to billy, specifically, instead - holding out his hand. ] I'm Steve, you new here too?

[ He’s relieved that someone knows the answer and also that he’s not expected to pay and therefore starve until he finds a job and gets some money. ] Well, that’s reassuring at least. Though I’m not sure what kinda job I’d get here…

[ Not important right now though. ]

I’m Billy, yeah, just got here as well. Where you from originally?

[ steve shrugs. ] They have options, from what I saw. You any good with kids?

[ considering that is what steve wound up doing whether he asked for a job or not, but steve won't push it, especially considering they all seem to be in the same boat with being entirely lost.

he says billy and steve blinks once, pushing away his own familiarity with the name. ]

Indiana. You?

[ He gives a small shrug. ] I have two younger brothers, although I’m not sure that counts. I didn’t really babysit them. [ He spent his teenage years fighting crime and saving the world a few times instead.

Don’t worry Steve, this is a very different Billy. ]

New York originally.

[ steve nods, because he understands that feeling. younger siblings don't always count. ]

Well- if you want to try, I've kind of ended up with babysitting duty. They apparently need all the help they can get.

[ steve's brows lift, because oh thank god, somewhere he recognizes. ]

City? Dude, that's awesome.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[OPEN] Solvunn Meet & Greet

Billy Kaplan | OTA

Drunken Lamb

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

Farm

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

ii

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject

Drunken Lamb

no subject

drunken lamb.

no subject

no subject

no subject

no subject