EVENT #9: NOCWICH - IC POST

[abraxasmods]

Event #9 - Nocwich

go to the OOC event info and plotting post or the the IC wrap-up post

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Throughout August, each faction is in a constant bustle. Between upping their borders' defenses and the arrival of Nocwich's emissaries, there's been no shortage of activity.

On AUGUST 15, a few days before the portals open, the Summoned will receive invitations delivered to their doors. Inside the wax-sealed envelope, they will find:

◎ A handwritten letter addressed to them by name. The letter formally welcomes each person to the grand opening of Oleuni Square, the first neutral territory formed in Nocwich between Ikorr and Luna. If you happened to donate your blood last month, a small thank you will be included, as well.

◎ A unique enchanted pendant that will allow the wearer to enter the portal. You must have this pendant to come and go from Nocwich.

◎ A card bearing their Arcanum. On the back is a painted pink crystal with the letter E. Exchange this with Lady Elin to have your fortune told. Those newly Summoned in August will have an additional handwritten note that says, Your time has not yet come. Answers may arrive upon the next full moon.

◎ Two invitation cards: one to LUNAR POND and one to the NIGHTBLOOM. Use this to enter the ceremony you choose on the night of the full moon.

Arriving at the Portals

When AUGUST 20 approaches, there will be carriages or mages with teleportation spells ready to take everyone to the portal location depending on the faction.

In the FREE CITIES, the trip will take 1 hour each way by carriage. As a result, it's suggested you make plans to stay a few days at one of Nocwich's fine inns unless you want to make the trip daily. Of course, if you don't plan on returning to Nocwich more than once or twice, the trip may not be too troublesome.

In THORNE, portals will be available just outside the castle in a more secluded area around the back.

In SOLVUNN, a short walk will take you to a shrine in the woods where a portal has been activated nearby. If you're coming from the Tertiary or Secondary Settlement, you may need to make a slightly longer trip to get there.

Oleuni Square

Newly formed as a pact between Ikorr and Luna, Oleuni Square was designed as a welcoming neutral space for anyone to visit.

While the werewolves and vampires do not intermingle much throughout the week, this is nonetheless the first time they've ever shared a space. A bit of tension can be felt here and there, but for the most part, those who are part of this event have agreed to put aside their differences to put forth their best selves for the Summoned.

Both the vampires and werewolves are curious about the Summoning process. They'll ask the Summoned about it if the topic arises, though they won't be pushy. It seems they just want to know: is it really possible to bring forth someone from another world? Someone of the faction's choosing?

About the Vampires

Unlike what some legends and myths state, the vampires of Ikorr are a species unto themselves. A vampire cannot turn or change a human into one of its own. Physically, all vampires possess visible fangs. Their eyes can change color depending on their age into a glowing orange, red, green, or blue and their pupils may even vanish entirely. They are extraordinarily long-lived provided they remain out of the sun. Entering the sun ages them rapidly and brief exposure can take decades or even centuries off of their lives.

They are fairly secretive, fearing the destruction of their kind. Much of their written knowledge is guarded in heavily secured libraries and vaults. It is not currently known if they can procreate. It is entirely possible that the vampires in Ikorr are those who have been there from the very beginning and that there have been no new vampires for an extremely long time. Rumor has it that a vampire child is considered a rare miracle and is greatly celebrated when one arrives. Regardless, there appear to be no vampire children present anywhere in Nocwich, at least not where the Summoned can see.

Vampires require blood to survive and claim they no longer feed on unwilling humans. This would appear to be true, as very few humans enter Nocwich as it is. Further, the vampires seem to have found a way to closely replicate the taste of human blood using animal blood and a combination of enchantments and herbs. It isn't perfect, and those with a special sense of smell or who are familiar with real human blood will recognize the subtle difference. According to the vampires, they don't experience unusual blood cravings. It's simply a necessary part of their diet. Nonetheless, there are rumors that sometimes those who are seen entering Ikorr do not leave, though these seem to be tall tales more than anything. That said, Nocwich is a city like any other and has a variety of predators and criminals in its midst. Danger can befall anyone.

About the Werewolves

Similar to the vampires, the werewolves of Luna are also a species unto themselves. They do not pass on a curse nor were they ever cursed or once human. The full moon enhances their transformation process, but many werewolves have learned to control their shifting ability and can choose to change at will regardless of the lunar cycle. While they don't explicitly need to live in darkness, many are now used to this lifestyle and prefer it. Being in daylight can dull or trouble their senses. It also carries the risk of damaging their pelts, something they guard carefully as it's their only means of shifting into their wolf form.

Those who reside in Solvunn might notice familiar motifs in runes, clothing, tools, and even architecture. This is because some of the original settlers of Solvunn were once werewolves from Nocwich. Over time, the werewolf aspect of their lineage has largely faded, but some traditions remain including their preference for oral history and storytelling, as well as their more rustic lifestyle. Once in a while, some werewolves might travel to Solvunn to attend a special solstice celebration. They won't announce themselves as werewolves and blend in well, so they're easy to miss. They'll often take livestock with them when they leave.

Unlike the vampires, the occasional werewolf child can be seen, though not as many as one might expect. The werewolves are tightlipped about it for the most part, but some do speak of the moonlit years, a time when their numbers were thriving. It's unclear what's happened if anything, but the werewolves as a whole are extraordinarily protective of their young ones.

The Marketplace

Making up the majority of the Square, the Marketplace consists of a series of outdoor stalls and a few actual shops. Whatever you can think of can be found here, from jewelry to clothing to food and wine. There are fancier eateries where one can order a meal and cheap street vendors. Much of what's available is of fairly high quality. Nocwich has put their best forward and only those who would make a good impression have been allowed to set up in the Square.

The list below is not all-encompassing, but it'll give you a sense of what you'll find.

Sights & Sounds

◎ THE MAIN STAGE. An outdoor stage will feature a variety of musical performances, dances, and plays. There is no need to buy tickets or reserve a seat. Simply come and go as you please, though it's of course polite not to leave in the middle of a performance. Refreshments can be purchased at nearby stalls.

◎ GAMBLING DEN. While there are a few under-the-table wagers being made all over, the main gambling den is run by the vampires. Complimentary tokens will cover the first few rounds. You'll need to purchase more if you want to keep playing seriously. Nocwich is no different than any place, though, and chances are you'll find that the house always wins in the end. Still, if you know when to stop you might find yourself with a little extra spending money!

◎ SHOPS & STALLS. In addition to the wares brought over last month, visitors will find an even greater selection of wine, meat, jewelry, herbs and flowers unique to the land, and special elixirs that offer different effects from cures to recreation. Some of the ingredients in these items may contain werewolf hair, vampire blood, or other unknowns. There doesn't appear to be much by way of regulations in Nocwich, so take extra care. Nothing will cause major harm, but you might end up with a more potent piece of candy than you were expecting...especially if it looks green and faintly glowing.

◎ HOT SPRINGS. Hot springs are used among the werewolves to ease their aching muscles before and after a transformation. A hot spring is available near the edge of the water for anyone to visit at any time. A few torches have been lit for the sake of their visitors. Do note, however, that the werewolves have little modesty and expect the same of those who join them. If you insist on keeping a few scraps of clothing, you'll be looked at strangely.

◎ SPAS. Near the hot springs, spa treatments will be available. Hot stones, massages, and aromatic herbs are all options for you to try. There will also be wine and herbal teas served while you're relaxing. You may experience this alone or you can go in pairs.

◎ TATTOOS. Due to their quick-healing nature, tattoos are popular among both the werewolves and the vampires. A couple of tattoo shops are available, where anyone can get a tattoo of any kind. For an extra fee, the ink can be imbued with the sap of a special flower that gives the design a faint glow under the moonlight.

◎ YARN & WOVEN ITEMS. Werewolves shed a great amount. A few enterprising individuals have spun the fur into yarn to make knitted shawls, gloves, blankets, and socks. The resulting wool is surprisingly soft and keeps the wearer warm without overheating them. It's also highly absorbent and quick to dry, making it an ideal washcloth.

Lady Elin's Divinations

To the east of the square sits Lady Elin's fortune-telling tent. It's modest and plain, without any of the flashy trimmings the other seers have. The only thing advertising her business is a single wooden sign. She possesses no equipment beyond a single crystal embedded into a round disc and a few candles. Those who are sensitive to magic will be able to sense the hum of power from her. Whoever she is, she appears to be the real deal - or at least has a significant amount of magic compared to others of her kind.

Curiously, any of the Summoned who pass her by will receive a look, almost as though she recognizes you or senses something familiar in you. As the Summoned, you are the only ones whom Lady Elin will actively encourage to get a reading. She may even insist on it if you hesitate. She does not seem interested in performing readings for anyone else. Her presence is calming and she's soft-spoken, if serious. While she will not explicitly say such, it's as if she has something she wants to tell each of the Summoned - something she can only reveal through a reading.

To get a reading, all anyone has to do is hand her the tarot card received in the envelope.

Comment here to receive a personalized reading. Should they have any further questions, Lady Elin will tell them their time is up and the crystal has no more answers to offer.

Be sure to request a reading before AUGUST 25th at 11:59 PM ET! This is to help us make sure all the readings are given and wrapped on time.

Hunting Woods

The Hunting Woods are dark and haunting. Anyone is welcome, but the guardians of the woods make it clear that you enter at your own risk. Other predators hunt alongside you and may see you as competition or even prey. Any form of lighting is not allowed as it chases away the wildlife.

As most of the Summoned are expected not to be carrying large hunting weapons with them, the guardians will lend fine-crafted weapons for those who wish to hunt. These weapons are of the same quality their hunters use. You can choose between a crossbow, a bow and arrow, or a spear.

Have trouble in the dark? There are options for those who can't see without firelight: merchants sell eye drops that will enhance the user's sight in the dark for a few hours. There are also goggle-like glasses that serve the same purpose for anyone who doesn't trust putting things in their eyes, though these run the risk of breaking in a fight. Whatever you decide, just take care in these woods. They are not for the unskilled nor the amateur hunter.

Much of the flora and fauna in the Hunting Woods have adapted to the dark. Ferns grow low to the ground, flowers bloom under the moonlight, and there is a large variety of mushrooms. Some are edible, but many are not - so don't eat what you shouldn't. For an idea of what creatures you can find in these woods, check the Nocwich section of the Bestiary. (Thank you everyone for your contributions!)

Night of the Moon

On AUGUST 26, the moon will shine bright and round in the sky. During this time, the Summoned will be invited to one of two ceremonies: Lunar Pond and the Nightbloom Ballroom.

Lunar Pond promises a beautiful and elegant moonlit night with the werewolves of Luna and offers participants the chance to earn a blessing that will strengthen their hearts. The Nightbloom, meanwhile, promises an evening of luxury with the vampires of Ikorr and the chance to witness what the vampires call the Blooming. It is said all those who are fortunate enough to see this event will find their path lit more brightly than others.

To attend one or the other, simply gather in the middle of the Square when the time comes and step through the appropriate portal. The Square will be closed while the ceremonies are happening. If you do not wish you attend, you must return home. It is not possible to remain in the Square or in Nocwich. Otherwise, choose the portal to Ikorr or Luna and enjoy your time! Carriages will be waiting after the portals to take guests the rest of the way to their destination.

At Lunar Pond

Hidden within some dense forests, Lunar Pond is more than just a pond. The vast wooded area is lit with delicate flowers and fireflies that pulse gently with life. Due to the thickness of the trees, the moonlight reflects the brightest off of the pond, giving it an ethereal glow. Additional glowing flowers have been placed around the forest to make a path for the visiting Summoned, like blooming lanterns. Carved wooden benches and tables have been placed around the area for seating, as well as natural tree stumps, boulders, and logs.

A large space for dancing has been cleared out, and music will be going all night. The werewolves favor folk sounds and wood instruments not unlike what's common to Solvunn. There's nothing formal about the dancing, as the point is to enjoy yourself. Set partners are rare. Most of the locals will dance in large groups or switch partners regularly within the space of a single song, making the experience a bit chaotic to watch. As the night wears on, it's not unusual for the dancing grounds to get a little rowdy - though in a friendly, celebratory way.

REFRESHMENTS
In the middle of the clearing is a large buffet table. Refreshments include a variety of raw meat and fish delicacies similar to tartare, ceviche, and carpaccio. The hosts will assure anyone who seems nervous that these are entirely safe for human consumption.

For those not convinced, there's also a variety of roasted poultry, steaks, delicately steamed and smoked fish, barbecued eels, and pies. Dishes of root vegetables and mushrooms such as tarts, soups, and stews are also available, along with a fine selection of mead and wine. Sharing a meal is important to the werewolves, and the amount of food and drink available demonstrates this. This doesn't mean the food lacks care, though. Presentation is equally important, and each plate or bowl is displayed with the appropriate garnish and decorations.

MOON LANTERNS
Upon entry, each person will be given a small lightweight lantern made of unusual reflective material and a piece of parchment. Write down the name of someone important to you - someone present in your life right now in this world - and place it inside the lantern. There are also paints and ink available if you wish to decorate the outside of the lantern. It isn't required, but personalizing your lantern in some way is encouraged.

Once completed, the lanterns will be set aside within a carefully watched tent for the decorations to dry. It would appear the werewolves take guarding the lanterns seriously, and no one will be allowed to enter the tent.

BLIND TASTING
Ever adventurous, the werewolves have set up a blind tasting tent. All the food and drink here are unlabeled and enchanted with a spell that makes it difficult to see what it is.

Enjoy dining alone? Too bad, because this requires a partner. If you don't want to choose a partner, the werewolves will choose for you. You'll be asked to choose your partner's meal based on what you can vaguely discern from the blurry and obscured view of the available dishes and drink, and they'll do the same for you. You might get something you enjoy, it might be horrific. The adventure is the point so these dishes won't be mundane, and are likely to contain something a bit strange, whether that's extreme spice, an unusual animal part, or an untested vegetable. While the cooks are attempting to make an edible yet experimental dish, their idea of edible might not be the same as yours...so although nothing will be dangerous or make you ill, the taste can be another matter.

Of course, you can give up and tap out at any time. Those who commit to clearing their plate, however, will be rewarded with bragging rights and an embellished drinking horn.

THE TRANSFORMATION
Partway into the night, attending guests will be invited to the clearing before the pond and given the lantern you made earlier. Here, a small group of werewolves will take their place in the center. Each werewolf is covered only in their pelt, a thick coat of fur that wraps around their body. As the moon shines upon them, the pelt begins to stretch and mold over their bodies like a second skin that melds into their form. Their limbs elongate, bones snapping and skin splitting. Within just a few short minutes, several large wolves now stand before the audience.

Take your lantern and follow the transformed wolves to the edge of the pond. Here, you can set the lantern on the water. As it floats, the full moon will light it up. If you pay attention, you might feel a warmth inside you - and the person whose name you wrote might feel the same, too, even if they're not with you at the ceremony. The werewolves refer to this as the moon's blessing, a promise of protection for the days to come.

At the Nightbloom

Rising through the fog in Ikorr, the Nightbloom is a grand castle that boasts an exquisite grand ballroom within its vast walls. Dancing is a given - and although elegant, it is certainly not stiff. The dance floor quickly becomes a whirlwind of swirling fabric from the vampires' natural grace and speed. Plenty of plush couches have been set aside for attendees to rest their feet, have a drink, and chat.

On either side, two curved staircases lead to the upper floor where guests can explore a collection of prized sculptures, paintings, and other art pieces. Some of the art is broken or worn, some are in pristine condition, and others still may even register as quite ugly depending on your taste. Nonetheless, every piece holds a lot of history and the vampires consider every artwork an important part of their past. None of the art is labeled, and most of the locals are reluctant to share too much about their history. Most questions will be answered with a coy, Art is how you see it.

REFRESHMENTS
Favoring elaborate flower arrangements, the long dining tables are neatly set with candles and refreshments. As the vampires largely subsist on blood, eating for them is less about sustenance and more about the experience. There's no shortage of food, but each item is delicate, meant to be eaten in one bite. The variety is unmatched. Some of the ingredients have been imported from elsewhere in Abraxas: fruits and herbs that couldn't possibly grow without sunlight.

More important than the food, though, are the drinks. The blood-infused wines and cocktails are the most popular of among the vampires, though there are non-blood varieties for those who wish to stick with something more familiar. You can serve yourself or ask one of the attendants to make you a drink of your choosing. Mead and ales are also available, but in smaller quantities and with less variety.

THE FLOWER
In the center of a guarded room sits a large flowering plant. From the plant are smaller blossoms, all of which are budded and not yet in full bloom. At a glance, despite its size and ethereal blue hue, it seems unimpressive with its petals tightly closed. Nonetheless, an aura of magic hums from it, a gentle sensation.

As a Summoned, you'll be invited upon entry to take one of the smaller blossoms and to keep it with them. Approaching the flower, you'll find yourself drawn to one bloom in particular, for reasons that can't be explained. That will be the blossom to take. Slip it into your pocket or wear it in your hair. It doesn't appear to matter what you do with it, the flower can't be crushed and it won't wilt...though its petals remain tightly closed for now.

DANCING LESSONS
Find yourself a partner and step into one of the side rooms if you want to have a lesson in a unique form of ballroom dancing. That is to say, you will be floating a few short feet off the ground once inside the enchanted room, giving the entire experience a weightless feel. The instructor is an encouraging and soft-spoken gentleman who will guide each person through each step no matter their skill level. He's exceptionally patient, willing to work with the most difficult of students, and overall enjoys his craft thoroughly.

Feel free to change partners between lessons if you wish, and take on whichever role you like - or try both leader and follower. Be careful: if you're too stiff or lose your footing, you run the risk of sinking through the enchantment and hitting the floor. It won't be far enough to injure and the floors have been cushioned, but your ego might be bruised.

Those who succeed in completing at least one full dance without tumbling to the ground will receive a jeweled music box.

THE BLOOMING
Partway through the night, all attending guests will be invited to the room where the flower sits. Those who took a bloom will be asked to bring it out and hold it. Slowly, the frosted glass ceiling above begins to fade, growing clear and allowing the moonlight to stream through directly onto the flower. As it does, the bud begins to open, revealing glowing orange petals that fill the room with a soft light.

You'll find at the same time, the blossom in your hand begins to unfurl and bloom, too. Its glow is smaller but no less bright, and a rush of warmth will fill you. The Blooming lasts only a few brief minutes. Then the large flower will close again - but not the blossoms. While their glow will fade, their petals remain open and vibrant. Be sure to keep this flower safe.

FOREWARNING

Nothing ever stays quiet for long. Near the end of the full moon ceremonies, officials from each faction will reach out to their Summoned who are in Nocwich.

In NOCWICH at the ceremonies only, two couriers will make a delivery shortly after the main event finishes (either the wolf transformations in Luna or the Blooming in Ikorr). They will discreetly slip it to your character, and will not linger to answer any questions. Once all deliveries are made, the couriers will seemingly melt into the crowd and vanish.

Those who are not attending the ceremonies will not receive the package. Unfortunately, there is no time to search for those who are not in Nocwich, so faction leaders have concentrated their efforts on the ceremonies where the majority of the Summoned are expected to be.

The Assignment

If you're chosen as a delegate, the below won't apply to you. Your scenario will be outlined under The Delegates.

Each person will receive a package containing a small note and a particular item. Along with detailed instructions on how to carry out your assigned task, the note will inform you of the following things:

◎ A potential threat to faction officials in Nocwich has been found. This threat may include one of the Summoned delegates of the same faction. The nature of this threat is unknown, so preventive measures for defense are being taken. This task is not meant to cause harm to another directly, only to protect.

◎ As the threat is believed to be coming from a rival faction, discretion is of utmost importance. It is strongly recommended that the Summoned do not discuss it with anyone outside of their own faction, or with anyone in Nocwich.

◎ Faction leaders will take care of the Nocwich leadership. The Summoned are asked not to spread panic and to keep this information to themselves, as the factions firmly believe that this threat is only to anyone of great importance belonging to one of the three factions. They are quite sure that the citizens of Nocwich and regular visitors are completely safe, citing that their information source is highly credible.

◎ The Summoned will be informed that assisting is their choice, as the faction leaders understand this carries a risk not everyone wants to accept. Those who don't wish to be involved are asked to place the item they are given in the envelope and return it afterwards to their faction.

Once the note has been read, the ink upon it will dissolve, leaving behind an unremarkable piece of blank parchment.

As if that weren't enough, you'll also only have one hour to do what you need to, as well as perform any sabotage or assistance, since the full moon ceremonies will soon draw to a close. Once the ceremonies end, you'll be herded into the returning carriages and nothing more can be done. Act quickly, especially since completing the task requires at least 15 minutes of preparation first. And remember: choosing not to act is still a choice, and it'll influence what happens next. To truly abstain, you'll need to not be involved in the ceremony at all.

Work together if you must, share resources or spells and skills - time is of the essence.

Thorne

The Summoned from Thorne will receive a tarot card that is blank at first. The image must be fully revealed by heating the card's surface, then waiting 15 minutes for the design to appear and the ink to dry. The card needs to be placed facedown somewhere (ideally hidden, such as under a book or a seat cushion), so it's critical that the full 15 minutes pass or the image will smear. There must be no rips, burns, or other blemishes anywhere on the card. It is up to you to find the appropriate heat source to do so, discreetly.

To interfere, you can deface the card before making the placement. Defacing the card involves drawing on it, smearing the image, or otherwise ruining it in some manner while ensuring the card itself remains intact. Those who are familiar with Abraxan magic will understand that defacing a tarot card can nullify or subvert a spell or enchantment.

Free Cities

The Summoned from the Free Cities will receive a tiny bug designed to resemble an insect common to Nocwich. The device will arrive with its wings open, revealing the cogs inside. These cogs need to be wound with a small tool (a pin or a needle) five times, no more no less. It will take 15 minutes for the device to finish preparing, at which point the wings will snap shut and you may cast it into the air with a gentle toss. Casting it before the wings close will cause the device to shut off too soon and plummet before it can be of any use. It is up to you to find the appropriate tool to do so, discreetly.

To interfere, you can ensure the device fails to work by winding it the incorrect number of times, removing one of the cogs, cutting one of the wires, getting it wet, or otherwise jamming the bug in some way while ensuring its physical body remains largely intact.

Solvunn

The Summoned from Solvunn will receive a delicate seed the size of a walnut. This seed is dry and must be soaked in clean water for at least 15 minutes until a small sprout forms on the seed, then planted in some earth. This can be anywhere, such as in a potted plant or under a tree outside. The seed must be fully covered and it must show signs of a tiny green sprout before it's planted. It is up to you to collect the appropriate water source, discreetly.

To interfere, you can ensure the seed will not properly grow by cracking the seed, charring it, soaking it in a liquid other than water, removing the sprout, or otherwise ruining the seed somehow without destroying it altogether.

Players will have until August 26 at 11:59 PM ET to let us the final outcome of their character's assignment, as this will affect how the event wraps up.

You do not need to finish any threads by then. Only two things are required for submission:
1. You must have a thread started of your character attending one of the ceremonies
2. You must decide what your character's final outcome status will be and mark it down for us

How your character reaches their final outcome is up to you and you can play out as much or as little interference, conflict, or drama for flavor as you like leading up to it. Once your outcome is submitted and the deadline has passed, please do not change it ICly or OOCly.

If your character is ICly attending the ceremony but you do not submit their assignment outcome by the deadline, it will default to decline.

Once you are ready, fill out and submit the form here.

The Delegates

If you were chosen as a delegate, you'll have already left for your meeting before the courier arrives at the ceremony. As a result, you won't receive the same package and your path will be a bit different.

To get to the meeting spot, a large and official-looking building, you'll be taken through a portal into an unknown city square rather than traveling directly to the meeting. If asked, you'll be told this is for security reasons. A carriage will await all three delegates at the square, which will then take them to another set of portals - where they'll finally reach their respective destinations of either Ikorr or Luna.

A separate IC log has been provided for delegates. Please go there for further details and to meet with your chosen representative.

The Outcome

As the carriages return to Oleuni Square, all seems well. The market is beginning to open back up as citizens return from the ceremony, merchants are setting up their wares, and there's no visible danger in sight. Intriguingly, Lady Elin is nowhere to be found, her things packed and the sign no longer on the table. It appears she does not plan on returning, or perhaps knows what lies ahead before anyone else.

Sure enough, the rumors start to surface: a fire, smoke coming out of one of the buildings in Ikorr. Or is it Luna? Both? Maybe it isn't a fire. Maybe someone was stabbed, actually. Or there was an accident involving a carriage. With how rumors work, it's impossible to tell what's true or not...but something is afoot.

Before anyone can investigate too closely, word comes that for security reasons, the event is shutting down a few hours early. Visitors are asked to conclude their business as quick as possible and then return home through the portals.

You'll find out exactly what happened during the event wrap-up on AUGUST 31! The outcome and which factions are involved will depend on the choices characters make.

Comments

Oleuni Square | OTA

[ofthesword]

Marketplace
[Nero is not, exactly, dressed to impress. It’s about as nice as he gets, his hood tugged down so reveal his shock of white hair. Look, they didn’t bring him here to dance around and look nice.

Still not sure why he’s here, actually, but. Couldn’t turn down a chance to see some monsters, huh?

He mostly wanders, taking everything in, mapping mentally the layout of the square. Nero doesn’t linger around the stalls and shops long, but he does make his way through. Just in case there’s something that really catches his eye – something for Wanda or Himeka, or – whatever, he’s not desperate enough to get Thor anything. He can probably make shit out of lightning anyway.

Most of it’s whatever. He likes jewelry, but he’s hardly got heavy bags of cash. He wouldn’t mind a few nice rings, a bracelet or two, but it’s the knives he sort of hovers by, looking over the silver blades, the knotted bone handles.

Pretty things. He doesn’t have much use for a knife, but – you know. Men and sharp things. He feels weird enough he came here without his sword.

Walking by the food stalls has his stomach growling. Yeah, he probably has enough for, like, a burger. If they had burgers. (He’d kill for a burger.) But, with a sigh, Nero opens the bag strapped to his thigh and pulls out a piece of cheese.

Which he eats.]

Tattoos
Nero, as rough as he might look, isn’t in possession of any marks on his body besides the occasional scar that he got before his – uh, whatever you wanna call a full-body demonic transformation. “Bullshit” is a good word for it. Before his bullshit.

Something about these caught his eye. Maybe because his conversation with Thor, even meeting up with Aloy again –

He’s been thinking of her a lot. Lately. Getting himself into shit, he’d – he’d always tell her about it. And she’d give him that same smile, remind him not to be an idiot. Not to die out there.

Nero pauses outside one of the shops, scratching the back of his neck.] You got one of these? Think they do custom work?

[It won’t even be complicated. A crystal, with a wing on each side, and a second pair wrapped around the crystal. The necklace he’d given her years ago.

Maybe it’d help. Dealing. Who knows?]

Hot Springs
[Nero pokes his head in here more out of curiousity than anything. He’s already got the feeling this is super not his thing, but – Fortuna doesn’t have anything like this. Not exactly a tourist trap. Not even a spa. A bathhouse, maybe, but it’s not so…

Fancy? Is this fancy?

He turns a corner, and is met with. Severe levels of nudity.]

Whoa! Hey. Sorry. Uh -- [He’s now blushing a pretty pink, a hand raised up in front of his eyes.] Place they’re keeping the robes get robbed or something?

marketplace let's GOOOO

[subhuman]

[ Dante is feeling rather dashing despite the fact that the man beneath the coat is not nearly as high brow as his clothes would otherwise indicate. It's the sort of stuffy that Vergil would be all about but with the flare that only someone as dirty casual as Dante can really bring out. Thorne does know how to pamper it's guests, at least to some degree. Though he would be lying if he said he wasn't glad to stretch his legs outside of the castle city.

The downside is, though, that since they have everything they need, coin is difficult to come by. Luckily Dante is a Man of Business and the trip to Nocwich wasn't just to go for a nice walk in the ever-present darkness. No, he is definitely a man with a plan.

Which is why he's loudly going over said plan with a pair of Luna in the markets. ]

It's a delicacy from a far off land! We call it...pizza.

[ He's leaning against a stand that boasts several types of meats. Sausages, whole ducks, cuts of beef, fish--the whole shebang. All things that would go great on a pizza. ]

And Good Sir, Madame...pizza is more than tasty meal, it's an edible plate! It could be the entire food pyramid in a single bite. Fully customizable to your...specific requirements and the discerning tastes of your customers. Be it one of your prized sausages, ground lamb, or even ethically sourced...blood sauce! We can make it happen. You would be the first ones in on the newest franchise. What do you say?

HERE WE GOOOO

[ofthesword]

[Nero feels cold in the pit of his stomach before he really catches on to what's forcing that feeling to happen. He's got a knife in his hands, spinning it between his fingers, maybe showing off a little for a bored-looking shopkeeper (is she a wolf? How do you even tell? Probably rude to ask...) who lights up a little with his skills. Not bad, kid, she says.

Something about it. It just feels off. Hell, him being here at all is off; he's not someone you send for peace talks or whatever this is. (The monsters sounded cool, though.)

He sets the knife back down, sliding the blade back inside its handle, with an apologetic half-smile. Like he has the coin for it, anyway --

Over her Maybe next time, kid his ears perk. That cold feeling he was pretty sure was indigestion from accidentally grabbing a blood-infused wine (look, he was trying it out) solidifies itself into something else.

Nero turns his head. That's all he needs. White hair, towering over most of the people here. He doesn't even need the red. Nero could track his voice from a mile away (when he wasn't being distracted by really fucking awesome knives.)

He doesn't think about it. Which, really, makes his reaction so goddamn genuine. There's a feeling and he's not examining it because no amount of pressure from a microscope is gonna untangle the relief-anger-rage-fear that comes with seeing Dante here.

Of realizing Geralt wasn't just fucking around with him. The thing he'd let himself settle into. That besides himself, everyone was where they fucking belonged.

Nero doesn't see nor acknowledge anyone in his way. Not the person Dante's talking to. He just strides across the marketplace, shoulder-checking people out of his way, power bubbling underneath his skin.

There's no "hey uncle," or "how the hell did you get here?" Nero's greeting is simpler with that, with far fewer syllables:

He socks Dante right across the face, closed fist. His real fist this time. And he doesn't hold it back.]

What the fuck are you doing here?

[There's gasps, some people backing away. Angry muttering. But for the second it took to connect his fist with Dante's jaw -- you know what? Fuck it. Worth it.]

JUST NORMAL SPARDA THINGS

[subhuman]

[ The hunter becomes the hunted.

Dante knows the feeling--of being stalked, stared down and picked out as the main target of the next attack. It's a feeling as familiar as the way the old worn cushion of his desk chair has perfectly shaped to the way he slouches in it for afternoon naps. The way the hair on the back of his neck stars to prickle tells him there's a storm a-brewin' and he's about to be in the eye of it.

And what does one do when they're put on high alert? That's turn in place with an easy smile towards your assailant--

--and to be met with a very angry face that really shouldn't be showing itself in a place like this.

Could he have dodged? Probably. Maybe. But in that moment Dante doesn't have it in him to do anything but stare for the split second he has before Nero's fist connects with the side of his face.

It's warranted many times over. Really, Nero doesn't even need to say what he's mad about and Dante would accept that he's got some making up to do, just add a few punches to the jar. He's already done the damage, yeah? It's all part of the healing process.

Except this throws a wrench into all of that. In the few seconds that Dante stumbles backwards and rubs his chin--a hit that would send a normal man flying into the masses, Dante has enough wherewithal not to bring the other Summoned or locals into this anymore than they already have--several things fall into place; Nero is here, has been here for at least a few weeks, right? Nero being here means he's not back there, which means that Earth is down one very important protector and--

Vergil.

Well. Balls.

He keeps rubbing his face as he straightens, falling into his typical roll. As lazily as his words come out, his eyes have a clarity he does his best to hide. ]

Whatever happened to "how you doing" or "long time no see"?

just normal sparda greetings with normal sparda feelings

[ofthesword]

[It's all he can do not to do it again. And again. And again. Anger that he's been ignoring for weeks boils up like he'd never released a drop of it -- a reminder that he never had a fucking choice with how things ended up. And now he's here, missing out on the only duty that Dante's ever probably given himself. The one time he needed to finish cleaning up the mess.

Nero's fingers cut into his palms as he curls them up by his side. Only thing that's stopping him is remembering Himeka's here, busting her ass for Solvunn, and if he gets throw out because he's beating the shit out of a guy who can take it -- take more, even, than Nero could give him -- it's still gonna make her look like a fool.

He's goddamn lucky Nero respects Himeka. That's what it comes to.]

The whole point is I wasn't supposed to see you again. Or don't you remember? Memory getting shitty in your old age? [He'll give one point to Geralt: at least the asshole wasn't lying.

Wish he had been, though.] If anything happens back there, it's gonna be on you. Again.

tbh yeah basically

[subhuman]

[ Yeah.

Yeah it is.

Dante works on resetting his jaw, mostly so he doesn't incidentally look more put off by the accusation than he wants to let on. Because Nero is right--as much as he'd made it a point to slowly rope the kid in on the family business of sorts, there's a lot that he chose to take on himself. Sure, he passed the torch on to Nero when he went to go babysit Vergil in the underworld...

But. Well. Earth and the Hell are now without anyone watching over them. And who's fault is that?

(Technically neither he nor Nero but let him feel guilty for a moment.)

Dante finally drops his hand. And as light as his tone attempts to be, his face is far from it. ]

There may be a few gaps, but knocking my noggin' around isn't going to help that.

[ Not that he minds too much. Nero could land another if he wanted, but Dante knows that Nero's fists come when his words don't seem enough. ]

If you want to take another swing at me, maybe we should do this all proper. Find the right setting.

[ Or are you enjoying the audience? Something Dante doesn't usually mind. With any thing but family drama. That he minds a lot, thank you. ]

love this for them honestly

[ofthesword]

[Take him a few years back and he would be crafting crop circles through this entire fuckin' town with Dante's face. Now? Now he's got a few years on him, and the blindness that would've taken over him is gone; now he can see the way Dante accepts his words, the hit to his face.

It doesn't make him more angry this time.

He releases a tch out between his teeth, turning his back on Dante like he's just going to walk out and forget this happened. Forget he's here. And most of all, forget his piece of shit father is probably thrilled at the idea of no longer having a babysitter.

He still doesn't know if he learned anything. Or what, really, there was to learn.

Nero turns back. Though he's as taut as piano wire, he doesn't make to hit him again.] Sure makes me feel better. [The words are sour. No. It doesn't. Wish it did, though.

Nero's gaze moves to an onlooker, and they get the full force of his glare and a snarl of you lookin' at something? The werewolf (probably?) looks amused more than anything, but does look off.

Then it's back to Dante. His... uncle. A word that still stands up on weak, shaking legs in his head. He never had an uncle. Barely had a father. And here he is, taking it all in again. Never had a minute to really process it. Or the hours he needed.] Hitting you again's not gonna change anything. [He's not about to punch him back to where he belongs (though an attempt is still a little. Tempting.) What a goddamn time not to have the Yamato, huh?] You're stuck here. Same as me.

[Yeah, it took five paragraphs for him to come to the conclusion. That's still the Nero way: get angry, hit things, think about it a second later. Have a realization, if needed.]

honoring tradition

[subhuman]

[ Nero's processing--Dante gives him time and space. As pressing as things are on their end of things, there's no rush in the here and now in this weird in-between town in a world neither of them belong to. Dante's been taking it easy, he knows it, content with the fact that maybe for once the weight of hell on earth wasn't falling on his shoulders. That he could take a break from staring down the faces of the horde no matter how much it makes his stomach churn.

So much for that.

He's got responsibility again--if not for Earth, then for Nero. And as much as he likes to act like those kind of things are easily carried around, he takes them seriously.

Nero's response in the end is as predictable as it shows growth. The kid would have taken the opportunity to melt Dante's face with the cobblestone if this were a few years ago. Dante lets out a huff of sharp amusement even if he doesn't smile. There is some fondness there. ]

Looks like it, eh? Lucky us.

[ The werewolf may not be gaping but Dante would prefer that they find something new to talk about. With that, he motions lightly for Nero to follow him.

They won't talk about Vergil. Not yet. Dante's had years to work that out. It's still a fresh wound for Nero, one he'd tried damned hard to never inflict.

Once it seems like they've left the initial crowd behind, he asks casually-- ]

So, how long's it been?

[ofthesword]

Yeah. Lucky. [Nero shakes out his hand, rubbing the grit of Dante's cheek off his knuckles. He barely felt it, and hardly feels it now.

And for what it's worth, maybe he has grown -- 'cause this might be the first time he doesn't want to start a scene. Something the werewolves makes it different, like. 'Cause they're not human either, they're not afraid to take it in. To stare them down.

Hey, who fuckin' knows. Maybe they can smell the sulfur in their veins like Geralt.

Nero shakes his head, scuffing his boot on the grass, but he follows. Even manages not to pull the hood of his coat up around his head. Definitely growth. Stopping fights before they really start. Maybe even thinking things through sometimes.

Still, he thinks he owes it more to Kyrie's head that haven't left their spot since she said them: You always know which path is right and which is wrong.

She'd probably agree dragging Dante's ass in front of a bunch of innocent werewolves was probably the wrong path.

When they stop, Nero's hands are shoved deep in his pockets. Since he's the one who brought it up in the first place, he waits for Dante to lay it out -- to bring up this thing between them that's like a knotted rope.

But he doesn't. The question he picks is an easy one, and though Nero's still tightly wound, he still looks Dante in the eye when he answers.] Months. Half a year. And from what a little birdie told me, you're about the same.

a growing boy.

[gynvael]

[ Geralt, too, is dressed almost exactly as Nero might've seen him when they met in the Horizon. Even after their shared dream, Geralt has not spoken to Nero. Didn't seem important, and Nero appears to feel the same given he's not heard from the man in return. About what happened.

Doesn't matter, anyhow. What they shared was...a lot, but not intimate. Not to that degree, not like what he had with some of the others. It's fine. He's keen to move past the whole damn incident.

He catches sight of the shock of short white hair from a few stalls down. Remains there watching out of the corner of his eye at first, curious as Nero reaches into a pocket strapped to his leg and removes some. Cheese. Which he proceeds to consume with a noticeable amount of forlorn wanting. He can hear the man's stomach growl from here.

What. Does Solvunn not pay them at least some amount of coin for herding the sheep?

A pause. He appears behind Nero without announcement. ] Didn't pack any bread?

[ofthesword]

[Nero jumps. For fuck's sake. People really gotta stop doing this to him.

Or is he edgy? No. No way. He's never -- he's not afraid of anything, let alone weirdos popping out of forests and shit with no warning whatsoever. (So maybe his stomach was distracting him.)]

Bread? [He swallows. Oh. Right.] This thing look big enough for both? [He smacks the bag on his thigh. That bag cost a pretty penny, thanks. Like. Two weeks of hauling shit across the entire settlement. Real leather, though. Has that cool leather smell.

Huh. Now he thinks about it, it doesn't feel much different to him out here. Seeing the guy in the flesh instead of in that dreamspace. Nero steps back, looking him over. Huh. His shoulders really are that wide.] What, you get dragged here? You're not exactly the first guy that comes to mind when I think of "monster shindig."

[gynvael]

[ He can't say he expected Nero to be jumpy. Doesn't seem the type. It draws a cocked eyebrow, though he makes no remark. ]

Yes. [ Depends on the size of the bread. Amount of cheese. Anyhow. Geralt reaches over Nero's shoulder to lay down some coin for some skewers of roasted meat and mushrooms. Several them sit over a fire, sending a warm aroma of herbs into the air.

The merchant glares at Nero. Geralt gives a faint shrug that suggests he definitely does not condone this description of Nocwich. He takes his skewers—hands one abruptly to Nero with zero explanation and with an expression that says he does not wish this gesture to be acknowledged. ] And they aren't monsters.

[ Perhaps don't call people monsters when you're surrounded by an entire fucking population of them, Nero. ]

[ofthesword]

[Nero squints at him, trying to figure out if that's a one-word joke or not. Geralt? Joking? Not sure if that's a thing. Like, maybe rare. Super rare. And it'd be drier than one of those raisins you find behind the fridge four years after the fact.

Nero's stomach rumbles. Fuck. Yeah, he misses a good burger, but the food here isn't shit. There's herbs in the air, and the lick of fire reminds him of Himeka lighting up the stove.

Of course he's spoiled on her cooking, but... it's not like he had the extra change for tonight.

So he almost drops the skewer Geralt hands him, because he doesn't expect it. Doesn't even think of asking for it, either.] Whoa. Seriously? Thanks. [That easy. He takes a bite, tugging the first chunk of meat off. He didn't even pay attention the merchant's look, so when Nero sends him a thumb's up in approval, it's genuine.] I mean. What're you gonna call 'em? Demi-human? If they got monster movies about 'em, they're monsters. [That's obviously a fool-proof grading scale.] Besides, it's not like I'm talking down from a human pedestal, either.

[Maybe those last words have a bit of an edge to them. Like he's still not happy about saying it. But he's not stupid. He knows Geralt must have an idea about it, even if Nero's only ever said the word to Wanda.]

[gynvael]

[ Not knowing whether he's said something in jest is part of the experience. Geralt's expression discloses nothing.

He shakes his head, moving away from the sizzling meat so the woman behind them can make her purchase. He pulls the chunk of meat off with his fingers. Food's not bad here. Less diverse than what's found in Cadens, but he's hardly particular about his meals.

What the fuck is a monster movie? Well. No, he knows. In passing. Folk have explained. He's not ever seen one, though.

His gaze flicks to Nero. He catches that edge. Takes him a bit by surprise. That Nero has yet to come to terms with being not human is not a thought that occurred to Geralt. Nero seemed perfectly at home in that dream fighting the demons, taking flight with his wings. He gets it. Every Witcher, he thinks, goes through it at the start. That period where you aren't sure what the changes mean. ]

Half of us aren't. [ Himself included. He equally presumes Nero has realized by now. If Nero is hesitant to disclose, Geralt shows no sign of delicacy around the topic: ] What are you?

[ofthesword]

[Not gonna lie, these merchs can cook, too. He's in for the conversation, sure, but a rumbling stomach comes first, so it's through two more bites of meat that Nero hears the question.

Seems inevitable. Does he hide it? Does he bother? Doesn't really seem to matter either way. This place has got plenty of non-humans walking around like it's the norm, and the word "demon" doesn't have the same connotations.

Far as he can tell, the Underworld doesn't have even a toe in this place. So far.

Nero's hand not covered in meat juice rubs the back of his neck, just for a second. Geralt's seen a side of him that he hadn't meant to show, same as Himeka and Wanda. Shit just happens like that, apparently. Showing off your daddy issues to any mook with a pair of eyes.]

Sure seems that way. [He sighs.] Part demon, if it means anything to you. [He shrugs after, picking the last bit of meat off.] Buy me another skewer and I'll tell you more, if you're so damn curious.

[gynvael]

[ Geralt hums. Demon can mean a lot of things to him. Something otherworldly. Not if this realm. It's good enough. It isn't as though Geralt knows precisely what he is, either. A creation of human magic, mutated. ]

I'll do one better. [ He tips his head for Nero to follow. If they're to talk, they may as well do it over a drink. He hasn't met the man in person until now, and despite appearances, he does in fact like Nero. Something about him reminds Geralt of, mm. His brothers. (Lambert.)

Perhaps like is not the word. Fond exasperation is more accurate.

He pushes open the door to the nearest tavern. The prices are hefty here—they've obviously raised it for the influx of guests—but he's plenty of coin to spare. Thanks to a certain bard. ]

Demon give you your wings?

[ofthesword]

Yeah? [Nero's face betrays the excitement he feels for that little promise. What can he say? He was suffering, trying to live off a damn wheel of cheese. Of course it's good cheese, but he's waiting for the real feast to start. He just thought... you know, it'd start a lot earlier.

Tavern is not fully what he's expecting, especially when walking in one of these still feels like he's going backwards in time. The opposite end of the bar spectrum compared to Dean's roadhouse.

But he's not turning down drinks and more food. Not by the longshot. Never thought it'd be coming from Geralt, though -- maybe from that rich weirdo near the inn.]

What, you meet a lot of humans with fuckin' wings? [He gives a roll of his eyes as he sits down, hooking an nearby chair with his boot to drag it over and prop his feet on.] Yeah. I guess. They're -- [He purses his lips, crossing his arms across his chest.] =- New. Newer. Before this world, I mean. Hard to explain. I don't really get it myself. I just got 'em. Part of the deal.

[carmesi]

[it seems that no matter how much wanda makes an effort to create clothes for nero, he constantly finds a way of dressing however the hell he wants. wanda would like to think that he's never actually left his tryhard era, but there is something about boys not caring to impress.

not that it matters, much.

except for the fact that wanda's pretty sure he saw him wear that on the first day the portal opened to nocwich and, now, three days into the week, she wants to believe that it isn't the same outfit.

wanda approaches nero, arms crossed, looking to be in a good mood despite the frown on her face. he's sitting down on a stone staircase overlooking the market, eating something out of the bag strapped at his thigh.]

Is that all you brought over to wear?

[she, too, sits on her haunches beside him.]

[ofthesword]

[Nero feels her coming before he gets his dressing down -- so to speak -- and he giver her a casual wave of her hand with a grin.] You really came over here to give me shit, huh? Glad to see you here, too.

[He washed it! How? She doesn't get to know.]

It's a coat for a reason. I have clean pants! [He plucks at his trousers which are very black and. Appear clean. For the moment. To be fair, no one's spitting unholy amounts of blood at him so far, so that keeps him relatively clean on a day-to-day basis.] Besides, some rich guy was giving out inn rooms like candy on Halloween. I got a token for, like, at least one free bath.

[He could be teasing her. He might have more. Or even less.]

[carmesi]

[think of her as annoying all you want, nero. wanda is far beyond caring as this is the usual day-to-day between them. she rolls her eyes, arms crossing in front of her chest just about.]

Your threshold of what are clean clothes cannot be trusted.

[but that's not— the point here. she doesn't want to have to get into these kind of arguments with him, knowing full well there is no reasoning with him about it. they're both stubborn in their own right. wanda does, however, look at his hair, and her brow creases a bit.]

You should have let me cut it back at the farm.

[—like this is something they've contemplated doing before.]

Your hair. Not your — [ARM] It's a lot longer than when you first arrived, and there are ceremonies later this week. You're going to go to either of them?

[ofthesword]

I know how to be clean, thanks. [He even likes showers! And he uses all the soap and shit she makes! Even if he doesn't think smelling like fruits is really helpful on hunts, but -- well, he ain't hunting much nowadays, huh?

Nero's ready to pop more cheese in his mouth when cut moves through the air. He gives her a glare.

He knows it's not what she means. But if he's being serious, the whole arm thing taking so long, being sore for so long, has been messing with him. (And that, you know, this is the second time he's lost it.)]

Yeah, well, Solvunn isn't exactly known for its designer cuts. [He shrugs. He's had longer. Kyrie just said she liked it short. And it did stay outta his face this way.] Yeah, I might as well. Thought I'd check out the vampires. You know, can't turn down a chance to spot Dracula. [But now he's messing with his hair, conscious of it now. Why? Does it look bad?] You sayin' I'm not gussied up enough for vampires?

[carmesi]

[her lips thin at that, at the trill of thoughts that come from him, about his arm getting cut off and how much it's been kind of messing with his head. wanda understands, she's apologized for it, but it's still—awkward, to say the least.

but she knows that nero is a great guy, great enough to bumble right out of that conversation.]

I'm sure you're fine. [with a slight shrug, she reaches out with a hand to grab at some of his hair; the action familiar and friendly, of people who have spent too many months coexisting—this sibling-like relationship between them.] But your ends are split.

[she drops her hand to her side.]

Do you think I won't do a good job? I used to cut Pietro's hair for him.

[ofthesword]

Not real convincing. [But it's not exactly a biting comment. And though he gives a sigh -- he's gotten used to it, yeah -- he doesn't swat her hand away.

Yeah, it's starting to get near his eyes. Might get in the way eventually. But look, he's had other things to worry about.]

Not like anyone's around to notice. [He gives her a glance, and then one of the loudest, most put-upon sighs.

(How is he supposed to say no after that?)]

Guess I trust you not to intentionally ruin it. [A roll of his hand through the air.] Go on, then. Make me pretty.

[carmesi]

[getting a loud, most put-upon sigh from nero is as good a compliment as wanda will ever get when he's in a bit of a prickly mood, which is why she doesn't mind it. it's typical between them, for nero to act like the hates it while wanda dotes on him with insufferable insistence.

she gives him a smile for his troubles.]

Come on, let's find a bench.

[away from the market and the people and just the general crowd.]

Do you want it back to how it was when you first arrived?

[ofthesword]

[Fine with him. Not like he hates crowds, exactly, but this whole... thing, it's not really his thing. Maybe something he would've taken Kyrie to, though. She would've loved it. The market, all the weird bits and bobs they hadn't seen before. The handmade jewelry. He could've gotten her a nice necklace or some of those weird, glowing flowers.

Instead he's getting his hair cut by a witch.

Not the worst thing, either, if he's being honest. She'd do it, too.

So they find a little bit of solitude off to the side, with a overly fancy carved bench and overhanging trees. Close enough to watch the square, far enough no one's gonna stumble in and trip over them.

He sits, giving his hair a final brush with his fingers, moving the hood of his coat down out of the way.] Yeah, that'd be great. [Nero sits up stiffly, still. Not giving her an excuse to cut the tip of an ear off.] So, what're your plans? Meeting up with anyone? Obviously these cross-kingdom shindigs don't happen often.