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

Nightbloom + Assignment

[ofthesword]

Nightbloom
[It’s quite clear to him, hustling up to a giant stupid castle, he made the wrong decision. And he tries to turn it around, but the portal’s closed. So he’s. Stuck here. With a castle. And dancing.

Nero’s so damn tired of castles.

And he is not dancing. Not because he can’t. He’s just. His dancing is not. Ballroom. Actually, pretty sure this is the first time he’s been in a ballroom where Kyrie wasn’t performing.

Too bad. She’d fit right in here. Fancy dresses and dancing. All the art. She might have even convinced him to dance.

He’s not now. He’s leaning against one of the ballroom’s walls, his hood pulled up around his face. Nero’s not concerned with looking weird, watching people dance – mostly because he’s caught up in a memory. His girl in another castle.

Ugh. This sucks.]


[Later, he can be found by the refreshment table, stuffing one finger food in, one after the other. The whole market was too expensive for his tastes (or his coinpurse) and he’d been waiting all damn night to eat.

He’s gotta say. It’s not bad.

Nero stops a server with a raise of his hand.] Hey, uh. You got root beer?

[The vampire stares at him. When he walks away, Nero sticks a couple of finger foods in the bag strapped to his thigh.

For later. They’re wrapped in a napkin, it’s fine.]

Blooming
[Somehow, he hadn’t thought the whole Blooming thing would be so literal. But fine, he’ll bite. Maybe Solvunn’s rubbing off on him. Besides, even he can’t fail to admit the flower is really something to see. Nothing like he’s seen at home, really.

After a moment of deliberation, Nero sticks the glowing flower behind his ear. He might have a near-permanent frown, but the flower doesn’t look terrible next to his white hair.

Besides. Easier than carrying it around.]

Assignment
[Nero’s already tired of all this entire shindig by the time a note is slipped to him. Before he can grab the courier – who literally dances away from his grip – he’s left with a note. And the naked-ass seed.

Once the ink’s gone, he just shoves the note in his thigh bag.

Clean water? Why couldn’t it be wine?]

Oh, yeah, the one time Himeka’s gone, huh? Couldn’t be around to make a freakin’ bubble or something?

[Shit. Himeka. She’d left earlier. But where –

Shit.

Nero grabs the closest person, grip tight. His gaze is sharp, and it almost feels like his nails might be pointed claws. They look normal enough, though, for now.] Hey. You see a fountain around here anywhere?

assignment

[epitaphs]

Hey, watch it.

[ Clarke startles at the sudden touch; she's not too good with that even when people don't do it with too-sharp nails. She glares at the man and points with her free hand back the way she'd just come. There'd been a fountain that had been in too-plain sight for her to feel entirely comfortable taking some to soak her seed, but there wasn't an abundance of people around it, at least. ]

There's one over there; now get your hand off me.

[ Before I bite it off, her expression says for a moment before she stills it back to mere annoyance. She's not here to make enemies, but neither is she going to be pushed around by random overly-intense strangers who can't find their own way to water. ]

sorry for the wait!! work rly killing me over here

[ofthesword]

[This is what happens when Nero grabs the closest person. He always seems to choose, like, the tiniest assholes.

But. Hey. She did answer the question.]

Jeez. Touchy.

[He does remove his hand, but for a moment, she might be able to see he's contemplating making it worse. Something about the attitude, man. Makes a guy wanna keep pushing.

(Actually, that's just Nero's whole deal.)] Maybe you should hit the spa and relax a little? Give the grown ups some time to deal with this mess?

[He may have only skimmed the letter that indicated he should keep it on the down-low. Look. He's a busy guy.]

no worries i'm often slow af!!

[epitaphs]

[ Wow, rude. She isn't the one grabbing people with sharp hands.

Unfortunately for everyone, Clarke isn't going to let the attitude go unchallenged. She scoffs and looks him over in an incredibly unimpressed fashion. ]

I'll think about it as soon as I find any.

[ No she won't. ]

[ofthesword]

[Only for like, a second.

Aha. A battle of wits, is it? Fine. Nero's got those in spades. He mocks her scoff (momentarily setting aside he has a very important quest to do -- not like it's gonna take long -- and rolls his eyes, to add onto it.

If she's not gonna be helpful (beyond directly answering his question.)]

What, a spa? Man, you missed the party. There was a big one by the entrance. Free, too. Guess you don't need the help gettin' steamed.

[Nailed it. Now he can walk away and be the Bigger Man.]

assignment. c:

[hairington]

[ steve is still looking at the now blank note with furrowed brows by the time nero grabs at him, if only because he's suddenly not sure what he even read. factions? faction leaders? don't panic? steve's got the seed in his hand still and isn't exactly being secretive about it, but he also doesn't know what he's even supposed to be doing at this point. he knows there were instructions, but there's also this creeping worry that he...isn't sure he even remembers what those instructions are?

it's right at the moment that he thinks I need to find someone from Solvunn that the other grabs his arm. steve blinks again, hearing the question and remembering yes okay, water, that was what they were supposed to do. for how tight the grip on his arm is, steve doesn't exactly seem put off by it, more relieved to have someone to work with ]

Uh- was there one in the room with the big flower? Like, to keep it alive?

[ flowers need water to survive, right? yes? that's not a stupid assumption to make. ]

[ofthesword]

[One might question why on earth Nero's go-to appears to be kids, but -- lhe was one once. He knows they tend to get into shit. Notice things. (And, if he was honest, he was distracted during that whole bloom thing -- he's been distracted this whole damn time, thinking of Kyrie. Alone. If Dante is here, then V -- Vergil --

Fuck.)]

Not exactly subtle. [He looks down. Oh. Great. Another seed. So the others... huh. All of 'em?]

You're from Solvunn. [Not hard to put two and two together -- one of the other kids. Big suspicion on why Solvunn's got so many damn kids, but whatever. Worry about that later. Worry for Himeka now.] Come with me. We're getting these little fuckers soaked. [Sorry, Steve, he's not giving you an option. Solvunn pride!] How good are you at being a distraction?

[hairington]

Yeah.

[ he is from solvunn, which feels like a kind of weird thing to say. he'd thought everyone had been from summoned, but this whole event, this whole thing has kind of showed him that things are a little more complicated than that. other countries, other places... steve nods, because yeah, they're from the same place. which means they're working towards the same goal, right? protecting himeka?

but then nero is already moving on, already has a plan, and steve...it's not that he feels better that someone does, but he at least can work with ideas. ]

Depends on the kind of distraction, and how fast you can be. [ steve glances back to the party, to the people milling about, and nods once. okay, they need to do this. he can do this. and in a second or so, steve's shifted from confused to action. ] What do you need me to do?

[ofthesword]

Oh, don't worry, kid. My speed isn't what you're gonna have to worry about.

["Kid"? Ugh. He sounds like Dante. But it slips out anyway. Nero's puffed up now. He'd go out of his way to protect any kid, obviously, but Solvunn's become something... special, despite him not meaning it to. It's his place. Home. Temporarily, is what he hopes, but it's what it's become.

And Himeka -- he's not letting anyone fuck up her chances.]

Nero. By the way. [He gives his name as they walk back towards that flower. The whole Nightbloom thing... is a fucking spectacle, but now that it's over, hopefully no one's checking the place out anymore. Either way, this kid's already agreed.] I'm gonna stick the seeds in the water there. But I'm figuring the vamps aren't exactly keen on people messing with the plant life too much. I dunno -- how bad can you dance? Bet that'll catch attention.

[He's not here to piss anyone off. Just to do this without getting the wrong kind of attention.] Once they're soakin', we just gotta wait.

[hairington]

[ it's been a while since steve's been called kid, but for whatever reason, it feels okay here. this guy knows what he's doing, and there's something almost familiar about it that has steve... well, not trying to place exactly, but wondering about. he can figure it out later, for now-

oh, oh wait. steve blinks, recognition flitting across his face. ] Wait, you the guy who did the brochure, right? [ a beat, and then as they walk. ] I'm Steve. [ he follows the pointing, the plans, can see where the distraction and nero putting the seeds in the water will go. the issue arises when nero says something about bad dancing and steve frowns. ]

I'm actually really good at dancing, but- I think I have an idea. [ is it a good idea? probably not. but if nero really is as fast as he says he is, steve thinks it'll work. ] How long do you think you'll need once they're soaking?

[ofthesword]

Huh? [Nero, unconsciously, flexes a little, stopping to scratch the back of his neck. Now he was all for being recognized, especially because his brochures were fuckin' awesome, but being recognized now, without expecting it, sort of throws him off.] Er, yeah. That's me.

[Steve. At least it's not a weird name like Eliza -- Elidibus. Whatever the fuck that is.

Nero gives him a look over, from his head to his feet.] Really. Surprise, surprise. [Says the guy who can't dance much himself. Anyway --] Note says it'll take a bit, but I just need to get them in and out. Probably could plant them in a minute. What's your plan?

[Can't say he's not open to adjustments. As long as he's not the one doing the bad dancing.]

[hairington]

Hell yeah, man. That thing was a life saver.

[ which is only like...a little bit of a stretch. really, the whole welcome part was the life saver, wanda all but taking him under her wing was a life saver, but the brochure? did help a lot. and it helps steve feel a little more like he's getting his footing, like he is meeting all the people he should know.

the surprise surprise has steve's brows lifting, a little challenging, a little you need a demonstration? but then steve remembers that there's a whole mission that they're trying to accomplish here and he pulls himself back. ]

I mean- I could do the whole 'pretend I'm really drunk and crash into something important' bit, or just go and try to talk to the guards, get them wrapped up in something else. What do you think would work better?

[ofthesword]

[Man, is that sarcasm? He's gonna give this kid a noogie --

Well. Doesn't seem like it. So Nero puffs himself up and takes the compliment, 'cause that shit is rare as diamonds around here, anyway. Even on the farm he's more likely to hear some bitching than a genuine compliment.

Honestly, Nero likes his plan better. It's distracting and funny. But the guy's actually trying to help, so -- maybe they're on the same level here.]

Talking, if it works. Ramp it up if it's not distracting enough. If you can handle that, we're golden. [He rolls his seed across his palm, giving a nod.] Promise I'll save you at the end if I gotta. No matter how embarrassing it's turned.

[Never leave a man behind, blah blah. If he's gonna help, then Nero helps him back. That simple. Tit for tat.]

[hairington]

[ IT WASN'T SARCASM. or at least wasn't that much sarcasm. steve is actually, genuinely very thankful because the brochure was exactly what he kind of needed. something he could stare at and kind of put together at his own pace.

nero agrees with steve and really, that's all he needs. talking he can do, and steve nods along, his eyes scanning back around the room to pick out the people who look the most guard-like. he gives one more nod, fixes his hair. ]

Okay, yeah. It's only five minutes, how bad can it get? [ steve looks like he's about to walk off in the direction of the party when, mid step, he stops himself and hands off his seed. because uh, forgetting to give that to nero kind of defeats the purpose.

but okay, now he's golden. let's do this. ]

[ofthesword]

That's exactly when shit goes south --

[And he's about to grab the kid and ask for his -- two for one deal, once again -- before he remembers to offer it himself.

Cool. Trust going both ways.

Nero gives him a clap on the shoulder.] Kill 'em dead. In a manner of speakin'.

[Nero can be nondescript if he works at it; problem is he doesn't work at it often, so he's not exactly skilled. He pulls his hood up, but it's not the first time he's been walking around with it up, pocketing the seeds in one of the pockets near his hands. He plucks up wine like he means to drink it (er, might be blood, actually, which is worse), and glances through the thin fabric of the hood to keep an eye on the kid. An eye on everyone around them.

Nero's skill is in speed, though, and in the time it takes for a guy's head to turn towards him, he's dropped both seeds in the fountain, taking a seat at the edge.

Now they wait. And he makes sure nothin' goes wrong from here.]

[hairington]

[ steve gives nero a look at that - kill 'em dead? really? - but when nero claps him on the shoulder, steve is nodding to himself. okay, okay, game time. nero's hood is off and he's already headed to the fountain and steve is turning back to the party, to the 'guards'. he takes a breath, steadying himself, and okay, okay, he can do this. for half a moment, he thinks about dustin. about robin. about the russian base. and then, in addition to that memory, nancy - looking at him with that sad, trying to be gentle expression. that's not the kind of charm we need.

he can do this. he just has to distract them for a couple of minutes. no big.

steve takes a breath and steps out from the corner he and nero had been talking in, immediately putting on an expression of just a regular party-goer, and definitely not at all anyone who might have an ulterior motive. he steps in on next to the guard and smiles, friendly and curious. ] Hey- so. I'm new here, which I know all of us are, but are you...on the clock? Or do you have a minute? [ the vampire that he's stepped in front of looks over to their fellow guard, confused for a moment at the reason behind all of this, but then steve flashes a smile - and it's actually a decent one, one of his better ones, and it works.

steve's eyes go to the other vampire too, then, pulling them both into the conversation - he knows how to hold the attention of a bunch of teenagers, okay? whether or not this skill actually works in real life doesn't matter if it works in this moment and considering steve glances over and sees nero sitting, waiting, seeds already in the water he assumes, it must be working.

so steve takes a breath and turns his attention back and just - starts talking, asking questions, putting on the charm. whether or not the guards are distracted because a summoned is doing something kind of weird directly in front of them, or it is actually steve's charm, is still up for debate. but hey, if it works, it works, and it's definitely working. ]

[ofthesword]

[What? It's totally a cool line.

Nero crosses his ankles, watching Steve without really watching him, arms crossed over his chest. It's not really hard to make himself look like he's standoffish, doing nothing, because that's about all he's been doing the whole time he's been in Nocwich (besides the spa. That was pretty sweet.)

His arms are crossed, though, to keep him grounded. Muscles tight enough to cramp. About the only thing keeping him on the ground, because he could be sending his ass straight to Himeka. She might've portaled there, but he could find her. Wings and all. Mental shout-outs. Wouldn't even be hard.

But whoever she's meeting with likely isn't gonna be too keen on a dude flying into their meeting to check on her, no matter what's goin' on. And though Solvunn is some shady shit, he trusts they'd protect her. She's the heart of the community. One of them. And that place needs several hearts to keep it running.

Nero's not got a watch (duh) but he keeps time by humming a song under his breath, over and over, adding the playtime end to end. Resisting the urge to peek into the water and make sure nothin's fucked up. Trust the process. Something Kyrie might say. Trust that you want to protect her.

He does. A few vampires won't get in the way of him protecting Himeka, but -- this is working. Whatever Steve's saying, he's got their attention.

Three hums later, he finally leans back like he's sighing, reaching into the water -- hand swiping up two seeds and, from what he can feel, a tiny sprout easing its way out, soft as a leaf. He pockets both seeds, kicking off the edge of the fountain, glancing at people going to and fro. Looking, a bit like them... frazzled.

Something's definitely gone wrong.

He could go and finish himself, but for whatever reason, he doesn't want Steve thinkin' he's abandoned him. So he wanders a winding path towards where he's with those guards, whistling the same tune he'd hummed earlier. Beelining for the refreshment table like he's just grabbing another drink (the other one might've ended up in the fountain. Oops.)]

wrapping here???

[hairington]

[ whatever it is that nancy had to say about steve harrington's particular brand of charm, he hits enough buttons here that things are actually working in the way it is supposed to. is steve actually processing anything that the two vampires have to say? absolutely not. does it matter? he hopes not - because they are talking, even if it's just to entertain what comes across as some well-meaning but very lost questions about...literally everything.

but steve does it. he makes it work. and in the end, their attention stays on him and the conversation. he may or may not even get a smile out of them, through the course of it. he loses track of how long it takes, which means it's probably a good choice on nero's part to come close enough that steve notices the whistling, the tune, and the fact that means nero is done with it.

it takes a few more moments before steve can - artfully - close up on the conversation. but with a charming smile and a couple of handshakes and potentially a promise he might actually keep to come find them later, steve heads off to get a drink himself, right back to the refreshment table.

as far as he's concerned: mission accomplished. ]

[unnecessaryflourishes]

[Though Emet-Selch isn't particularly familiar with Nero - past simply seeing him around Solvunn from time to time - the mention of Himeka's name is enough to catch his attention.

Enough that he lingers just long enough to find himself unduly grabbed a moment later.]

Himeka is hardly the only person who would be capable of such a thing.

[How willing Emet-Selch might be to do similarly is another matter entirely, true. But he is capable of it all the same.]

[ofthesword]

[Man, he picked the wrong guy. Everyone knows people with bi-colored hair have an attitude. What's he do, bleach it? Where's he gettin' bleach around here?

Wait --]

Hey, you know her? Then help me out here, buddy. [Though knowing Himeka's not exactly hard to do. Being part of the welcome committee and her, being, you know. Himeka.] I don't exactly want her to get -- er, whatever they're planning on doing. [Now he thinks about it, she might just end up lighting whoever's givin' her shit on fire.

Not like that little note was super helpful. All he's gotta know is she's in danger.] Come on. Bubble up.

[This is the extent of his experience with magic and water, all right.]

[unnecessaryflourishes]

[It's not bleached, for all it might look it. Not that Emet-Selch is hardly about to come out and say as much, mind, when he's hardly been asked about it.]

I do, yes.

[He's not thrilled about being asked to help, admittedly. But he rarely is, and would generally prefer that Himeka remain unscathed besides.]

However I am capable of creating more than mere bubbles

[He won't deny that it would work, of course. But the idea that is the extent of his ability is enough to sting his pride - and that in turn decides his course. As such, there's a brief pause - for dramatic purpose as much as anything else - and then, with a flick of his wrist and a snap of his fingers, he's holding a glass of water.

The glass, of course, matches to the general aesthetic of those otherwise found at the party.]

I trust this will suffice?