EVENT #11: MEDIATION - IC POST

[abraxasmods]

Event #11 - Mediation

go to the OOC event info & plotting post

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As the Dimming draws near, the people of Thorne, the Free Cities, and Solvunn begin to prepare their celebrations similar to the previous year. The Summoned, though, will be having a much different experience.

A week before the event, you'll each receive invitations to an important diplomatic event held in Luna. Unlike the opening of Oleuni Square, these invitations are from nation officials themselves - sealed and marked with the faction's emblem, alongside Luna's. Notably, any mention of Ikorr is absent. This appears to involve the werewolves and Luna in particular.

The invitation will specify that a resolution of conflict is under negotiation and that it's of utmost importance that all of the Summoned of each nation is present. That means you. Due to the clash that occurred last year and the fact that the Summoned's powers and magic are unaffected by the Singularity's waning, any Summoned unaccounted for will be considered a high security risk that could greatly damage negotiations. Therefore, those who wish to remain behind must submit a formal appeal to officials and will be assigned a neutral third party from Nocwich to be watched throughout the event's duration.

Everyone else is required to attend. Officials will be offering full accommodations, a generous daily spending allowance, and even personal guards should anyone be concerned about the attacks in August. They'll stress you should be further reassured, as the Dimming means magic in the native population is severely weakened. Magical attacks and other risks of that nature are thus unlikely. Most people will be conserving their strength throughout this period.

◎ For all submissions, players will have until December 28. This is a soft deadline, as we understand the holidays are a busy time, but we do ask players do their best to make their requests early in so we can respond in a timely manner and determine the contents of the wrap-up post.

◎ Since characters will be in close proximity during this event, especially while on the island and the ship, we've posted a CURRENT EVENTS thread where players can comment with notable occurrences that are happening in their threads for other players to take notice if they wish. These can include: escaping out windows, commotion with the geese, minor altercations or arguments at the inns or on the ship, and falling overboard. We may also post our own current event updates depending on what happens.

◎ We'll be updating the list of Information Revealed through eavesdropping as details are uncovered.

Luna

The deep forests of the upper peninsula eventually give way to the widening settlement of Luna. The city sprawls up onto hills and between thick groves of trees, following the natural lay of the land. Buildings in the open areas are never more than three stories tall, dwarfed by trees along the outskirts. The air is frosty, but not biting. In winter, a thick layer of snow blankets Luna.

For more details, see the section on Luna on the Nocwich Setting page.

The Summoned will be arriving in ornate black carriages pulled by ghostly steeds. Each carriage is identical except for an emblem of one of the three factions (Thorne, Free Cities, and Solvunn) temporarily inlaid on the doors - indicating where each guest must go. When all passengers have boarded, the carriages move forward without command, providing a quiet and scenic ride through the hills and forests that lead to the sprawling settlement of Luna.

The carriages begin as a singular caravan before eventually spliting off as they bring each group to their designated inn.

Designated Inns

You'll need to stay at the assigned inn for your nation of residence. It will not be possible to switch inns, though if you're discreet, you can get away with an overnight visit. You won't get in trouble for breaking the rules, but chances are you'll be sent back to your inn with all your things if you make an attempt to move, and the lone carriage ride through the city with all your belongings might be a bit embarrassing.

◎ THORNE

Those coming from Thorne are led around the corner of the main square towards one of the older streets of Luna. They'll be taken to The Teallaigh, Luna's most popular inn. While not the grandest, its reputation lies in the warmth of its hearth. The Ward family have run the inn for three centuries. The rooms are cozy and clean, providing the comforts of home, according to the Lunae. This includes soft bedding, a hearty morning breakfast, and hot evening baths. The streets outside can be rowdy during the busiest hours of the day and night, but the thick windows and mulled wine offered on the house help balance out the noise. The Ward family and townsfolk are happy to discuss the inn's history. Rumors are that the founder was something of a magician himself.

◎ FREE CITIES

Those coming from the Free Cities are led towards a section of Luna known for its high hills and winding pathways. Connected to the rest of the city by a stone bridge, the Morwyn Siglo is Luna's oldest inn. Though the boards creak and lights occasionally flicker, the building has stood above most of the neighborhood since the city expanded to these hills centuries ago. Much effort has been put into retaining the inn's classical aesthetic while ensuring it has the modern comforts needed. Morwyn Siglo is often used as a landmark for directions in this part of town. That trees and other plants grow up and into the very building itself are considered signs of good fortune to the locals. The rooms are dim, yet warm. Signs of encroachment are noticeable in the nooks and crannies. The nights are peaceful. Despite its appearance, the Morwyn Siglo is the only inn that uses fully automated magic-powered crystalline lights rather than oil or flame lamps. The food served here is considered the best in the city.

◎ SOLVUNN

Those coming from the Solvunn are taken to the New Quarter, near the recently renovated Town Hall. A few blocks from the main square is the newly opened Realta Inn and Tavern. Meant to help promote tourism in Luna, this etablishment offers more of the modern aesthetics and standards expected in other cities across Abraxas. The rooms are tidy and finely decorated without being garish. Unlike the other inns in Luna, the Realta is not run by a single family but by a collective of enthusiastic entrepreneurs and local business owners who want to see Luna's doors opened up to the rest of the world. Eager to make a good impression, the staff is hospitable and tries to show reverence to Solvunn traditions while the Summoned are their guests. The Lunae and Solvunn share close ties, after all. Goat cheese is served at the complimentary breakfast, but for a touch of something new, they also serve fine cheeses and butter from the local livestock.

The Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice, held around the Dimming, is a month-long celebration throughout Luna. It bears many similarities to Solvunn's Winter Solstice. Indeed, some werewolves with ancestral ties to Solvunn will visit Solvunn during the Winter Solstice to observe the commune's festivities. Anyone in Solvunn during last year's Winter Solstice might even recognize a few familiar faces in Nocwich.

Around Luna, you can find the following as people prepare for the Solstice:

◎ Bonfires
Though all of Nocwich is engulfed in an eternal night, large bonfires are lit in the would-be evening in the most popular gathering places: the large promenade by the edge of the forest, the busiest market center, and the central town square. Volunteers selected from the local youth - rarer these days among the Lunae - are honored with the "first light" where they stand in a line with flaming arrows and shoot them into the wooden pile, setting it ablaze to a chorus of excited cheers.

Mishaps have been known to happen in the past, but when questioned, most of the Lunae laugh off stories about how Old Man Tomlee had to frantically put out his window dressings when a wayward arrow found his storefront instead of the fire. It's all part of the tradition!

The bonfires signal the start of festivities. Wood is continuously added to the fire to keep it burning until the Winter Solstice concludes. Passersby, including you, are encouraged to contribute logs to the blaze. It's also customary to write out something you want want to let go of and toss it into the fire. This can be ill health, unwanted thoughts or feelings, misfortune - even people. Advertising you've burned someone's name is in poor taste, but it's common knowledge this happens more often than anyone will admit. It's said that if your parchment ignites a blue flame, then it is assured to come true. But if it burns white, then you won't be free of it yet.

◎ Glow Logs
The forest is home to many different types of evergreen trees. A small group of elm, spruce, and yew trees are cultivated specifically for the growth of the seasonal glow logs. They're cut to sizes of one to six feet to fit inside personal homes, with the largest on display in front of public buildings and businesses.

As a guest, you're invited to decorate a log of your own, which you can display in your inn rooms and later take home with you. Supplies will be provided for you to paint and carve the logs. Examples of traditional designs are available, but everyone's free to express themselves how they want. Symbols and scenes of fertility are common and welcome, of both the harvest and mammalian variety. The Lunae don't share the same sensibilities typical to some parts of Abraxas. These images are drawn quite seriously and artfully to bring forth bountiful luck in the spring. The final touches always include glowing flowers which light up the streets and homes, making the Winter Solstice the brightest time of the year in Luna.

◎ Spiced Wine Cauldron
Not far from the ceremonial glow log, you'll find a series of stalls for seasonal snacks and treats. In the middle is the most popular feature: a large cauldron kept gently simmering for several days on end. Inside is a flavorful spiced wine, which anyone can freely ladle themselves a cup from - though you'll have to bring your own mug. Deep red wine, brandy, cinnamon, and ginger are the strongest flavors, with hints of white wine and clove as an aftertaste. Additional sugar cubes and cinnamon sticks are available on the side if more sweetness is desired.

The cauldron itself never seems to get low, but there's no magic involved here. The Lunae all do their part to keep the cauldron full, adding their own bottles of wine and spices from home throughout the Solstice. This does make the flavor and strength of the wine inconsistent, but that's part of the cauldron's charm. More than the alcohol, the cauldron serves as a warm gathering place for chatter, meeting old friends, and spending quality time together.

The Sacred Geese

Geese have held an important status in Luna since its founding. The black-necked goose is by far the most common variety. They reside on farms and homesteads, as well as roam the city. Not all of the geese are wild. Domesticated geese will have a beaded band on their feet. Their eggs are a rich part of many meals.

During the Winter Solstice week, seven domesticated geese will be selected as that year's Sacred Geese. One notable goose is Daryll, the prized young bird of a local lumberjack. A ceremony is held in the town square where Daryll and his companions are presented for all to see and marvel at his plumage and feisty waddling. There, the ceremony host will hang a strange token featuring an eye around each of the seven geese's necks. The red-ribboned tokens indicate that the powers who watch over Luna have granted favor upon these geese. After the ceremony, the geese may be doted upon and gifted food as offerings...which mostly consists of people trying to fatten up the geese to slow them down for the next part.

When the ceremonial horn has sounded seven times, the geese are let loose into the city. The square erupts with the sounds of shouting and honking, feathers flying in the air as the geese take off and the townsfolk follow in pursuit. "Blind the goose!" becomes a chorus as the crowds rush past. To retrieve one of these tokens is the name of the game - effectively removing the eye and "blinding" the goose. Those successful may return to the square with the token in hand in exchange for a few decorated stone "goose eggs" that can be placed in a fire, then used to keep your hands warm. They retain heat for several hours.

Be careful: these are no simple geese. Known for their aggressive biting and powerful kicks, many local werewolves have earned scars from the ritual. They are also inexplicably immune to magic and spells, which makes them ideal for a custom held during the Dimming, a time when magic wanes. Considering the small prize, the winnings are not the point. Rather, the true purpose of this festivity is the bragging rights that come with having gone head-to-head with one of Luna's most fearsome birds. Teaming up is common. Community spirit is the most important thing in Luna, and one token can be exchanged for several prizes if multiple people were involved in a capture.

Do not harm the geese. The geese are very sturdy, so rough handling while capturing them is acceptable. However, deliberate attempts to harm or kill them will have you swiftly removed by the Lunae. You'll be served with a hefty fine, as well as shunned by the natives who will henceforth turn you away from taverns and shops. These geese belong to the townspeople, so harming any of the geese is the equivalent of harming someone's beloved pet and will be treated as such.

Anyone can participate! To see how successful your character is at obtaining a goose, comment here and we will perform a roll for your results.

If multiple characters are working together to catch a goose, only the person doing the active catching needs to submit for the roll.

Sylvcres Island

Originally known as Silver Crescent Island, Sylvcres Island sits off the coast of Nocwich in Luna's territory. This is where Luna mines its unique ore from under the surrounding waters. Miners and fishers make up the majority of the population. Across the bridge sits a stone building where negotiations will take place. You'll be arriving by ship on the evening of December 20th, which will dock next to the island for the full three days until December 23rd.

Because of the island's insular nature, it has no accommodations for guests. You'll have to return to the ship to rest and to seek entertainment. Nevertheless, for those who want to indulge in natural beauty, Sylvcrest Island has much to offer.

For more details, see the section on Luna and Sylvcres Island on the Nocwich Setting page.

The Ship and Ocean Journey

Welcome aboard The Arcanis! This "cruise liner" is considered the height of luxury and the pride of Luna. Its massive form cuts through the water smoothly, and its large sails are embroidered with thread dipped in sap that offers a brilliant glow under the moonlight. Instead of the defensive cannons or pikes one might find on a merchant ship, there are neat rows of small rowboats on either side - just in case.

The decks are spacious and could be mistaken for a grand opera house. Pillars decorated in onyx filigree and platinum fill the ship's interior. Curved staircases lined with candles allow access to all the floors, as well as the main deck. Are you wondering if this ship is conceivably bigger on the inside? You can ask the staff, but you'll only be met with surprise. Locals will tell you that it looks as expected - there's nothing unusual to it.

High-ranking officials will be traveling in a smaller, but equally luxurious ship, separate from The Arcanis. It'll be possible to see said officials from the upper decks as the two vessels sail alongside, and they will be docking at the island nearby.

Skyline Sea

Upon arrival at Sylvcres Island, you'll be notified of a wondrous event that will take place within the next few hours. Once a year, during the Dimming, creatures of the deep sea take to the skies. Legend has it these creatures never used to reside in the water, but the Singularity's growing strength forced them to migrate deep under the ocean due to the interference with song frequencies.

Most of the marine life are whales and sea jellies, but following behind them is the fearsome golden serpent and its friendlier but no less gigantic companion the rainbow carp. These creatures will not attack. Instead, they will simply migrate across the sky and vanish into the stars.

You can watch this incredible phenomenon on the deck of The Arcanis or on the shores. You'll get a thick fur blanket to protect you from the cold. Mulled cider will warm your hands, and tasty spiced nuts make for a great snack during the viewing.

Those watching are encouraged to make a wish and then share that wish with one other person. The Lunae believe sharing a wish with another will help it come true.

Accommodations

◎ Cabins
Cabins are below the deck, spread out between three separate floors. Each room is numbered in an elegant, swirling script. Sconces line each wall in even intervals and a long, plush carpet in deep burgundy runs along the center of the hallway. All rooms will host 2-4 guests based on demand. Each stateroom is roughly the same style and layout, containing:

• 1-2 queen-sized beds draped in silk sheets and velvet duvets
• 2 couches stuffed with decorative pillows
• 1 black marble fireplace that always has enough kindling
• 1 table and 4 chairs for afternoon tea
• 1 window covered in thick curtains and lots of floor pillows nearby
• 1 vanity and bench
• 1 small closet for luggage and hanging wardrobes

◎ Tavern & Eatery
Meals can be taken in the eatery, laid out like a banquet hall. If you have special dietary needs, you can talk to the head chef, a large and intimidating werewolf who is - when you speak to her - extremely friendly and cheerful. Food is served in the style common to Luna, meaning meals are hearty and filling. Bread, cheese, and ale often accompany each selection. While the factions have covered expenses, including dining, extra silver pieces will let you have someone bring a meal directly to your cabin.

Between mealtimes, you're welcome to visit the small tavern and lounge that offers a small variety of spirits and snacks. Offerings include wine, dessert, savory pastries, fresh bread, cheese, and pickled fish. The tavern is dimly lit, smells of spice and iron, and can grow crowded at peak hours. There are also comfortable couches and tables for chatter, reading, and relaxation.

◎ Spas & Baths
The communal baths and the wellness spa are the highly sought-after amenities aboard the ship. The spa boasts a variety of treatments and pools to aid common ailments. Guests are wrapped in fine silk robes and guided to relax to their fullest. Possible relaxation packages include:

• an herb therapy sauna meant to ease stress, tension, and anxiety. Works great for congestion.
• a seaweed wrap meant to rejuvenate and revitalize energy. Also good for dry skin.
• a mud mask made from clay from the island, said to release toxins from the skin and the spirit. Pairs well with champagne.

◎ Art Expression
Claimed to be one of the most popular activities, guests will be able to unleash their inner artist with the stroke of a brush onto canvas. Everyone is free to use any medium. Art supplies are provided. For the beginner class, the prompt is to depict something or someone meaningful from home. Share your creations with your fellow Summoned and discuss your art! With permission, you can have your piece displayed in a temporary gallery until the end of the island trip.

For the artist with a keener eye, an evening figure drawing class is available. This class will have volunteer models who will be seated nude in a variety of poses - but guests are encouraged to pose, as well, if they wish! Bottomless wine and dessert will be provided to aid creativity.

◎ Music & Gambling Lounge
For those who wish to leave their luck up to chance, The Lucksmith's Guild is a good bet. Patrons can gamble in a number of games, all the while listening to the local bard on center stage. While typical activities such as cards, dice, darts, and even arm wrestling are available, Luna also has two games that are popular when the ale is flowing strong.

• Dragon Egg. A small pebble or "dragon egg" is used to bounce or toss into a mug of ale in the center of a round table. Each player stands around the table in a circle. If you miss, the egg "hatches" and you must appease the hatchling by putting silver or gold into the "pot" or by "running away" (forfeiting the game). The last player remaining takes the winnings.


• The Long Embrace. Two participants cup their hands with one another with a live needle slug inside. The first to remove their hand is the loser. If the winner still holds the slug after the opponent pulls away, they double their winnings. While the slug is not poisonous, its sting - which occurs when the frightened slug "puffs up" to reveal its needles - can leave an intense burning itch that can be soothed by even more ale. Fortunately, the itch only lasts a few minutes and fades completely afterwards.

Charlie the Turtle

Beyond the size of the ship, The Arcanis has a peculiar resident. Charlie, affectionately referred to as Admiral Chuck by the captain, is an ancient turtle that's resided on the ship since its first voyage. He's often seen lumbering through the upper and lower decks at an average turtle pace. However, staff will claim that they've seen him speed by out of the corner of their eye, but none have proof.

Legend has it that Chuck may have witnessed the Sinking of Tornis or perhaps even once was a resident creature of the now-vanished city of Tornis. No proof of this exists, either, but turtles are extraordinarily long-lived so he may have been there.

Those gifted in animal speech can have a conversation with Chuck. If you want to attempt to converse with the ancient turtle, just reply to the Question thread with what you'll say to it, and an answer of some sort may come. Keep in mind that he is, in the end, just a regular turtle, so his insight may be limited.

Negotiations

Negotiations will have been ongoing for some time, but formally, the heads of the major nations will gather in the secluded building on the island between December 21st - 23rd. A 3-day banquet will be held in the surrounding areas. Officials who are not attending the meeting will be present at the banquet. During the day, less formal meals will continue to be provided on the ship.

The purpose of the dinners, as has been the entire week, is to keep all those of importance together in one place so that everyone who holds the ability to shatter tenuous goals of peace can be accounted for. If you feel somewhat held hostage as a Summoned, you'll get the sense some of these officials are in the same situation as you are. Perhaps that's one of the subjects that can be overheard?

Officials attending are as follows:

◎ THORNE: Queen Ellya Galdwin, King Brydan Galdwin III
◎ FREE CITIES: Marlo Reiner, Fallon Marsh
◎ SOLVUNN: Winifred Bordeaux, Rowan March

A general overview of how the talks will progress is detailed below for each day. Anyone present will be able to openly learn this information. Just approach any Nocwich official organizing the event and ask. Otherwise, said officials may also approach you and your table on their own to keep attendees apprised.

December 21

The Dimming and the talks begin.

◎ THORNE is requesting further provisional aid from Solvunn through its harsh winters, with a promise of no disruption from the Free Cities. They also want a formal apology from the Free Cities for the assassination of Grigory Jannus.

◎ The FREE CITIES is asking Thorne to cede the Badlands to them, arguing that it's a wasteland of no value to Thorne (...beyond preventing the Free Cities from pressing up against Thorne's borders, of course). They also want a formal apology from Thorne for the fire meteor attack on Libertas and Thorne to withdraw its accusations over the death of Grigory Jannus.

◎ SOLVUNN wants assurance that the Singularity will remain untouched and undisturbed, something they believe is the correct way of the world. This means no feeding of any caskets to the Singularity henceforth, and no movement to try to destroy it from the Free Cities.

December 22

The Dimming ends, and the Singularity will steadily begin to regain its strength over a week or so.

◎ THORNE will apologize for its excessive use of force, but will not withdraw its accusations or request for an apology over the death of Grigory Jannus. If the Free Cities will acknowledge its role in this unprovoked attack, Thorne may consider ceding a portion of the Badlands to them. They will not back down on feeding the Singularity its casket, but promise the events last year where multiple caskets were fed will not happen again.

◎ The FREE CITIES is considering allowing Thorne to receive its provisions (grain harvests only) from Solvunn without disruption in exchange for Thorne's apology for destroying Libertas. They will also promise not to make any aggressive acts towards the Singularity if Thorne gives assurances it will not try to siphon the Singularity's power for its usage. They will not give up their current claim on the entirety of the Badlands.

◎ SOLVUNN continues to push for its reassurances regarding the Singularity, but appears amenable to Thorne offering its singular annual casket to the Singularity, agreeing that it's been done for hundreds of years without noticeable harm. Solvunn has also put forth a claim to the Badlands, suggesting that Thorne and the Free Cities can prevent conflict by yielding it to a (supposedly) neutral party. It should not go unnoticed that Solvunn is the furthest from the Singularity, and that having a claim to the Badlands will put its territory closer to the Singularity's crater.

December 23

The final day of the talks. How discussions proceed may depend on messages received from characters. The outcome will be detailed in the wrap-up post.

The Banquet

While events in Nocwich were previously about displaying its culture, this time it's noticeably different. The touch of werewolf culture is minimal. Luna's message is clear: its only role is to serve as host and mediator. The negotiations and any related events are largely from the three factions.

Banquets take place on the island itself inside a warmly lit hall, but food is prepared on and arrives from the kitchen staff on The Arcanis. Seating is assigned. You'll also be able to communicate with officials in your faction at the negotiation table if you choose. Only one message can be delivered per person, so choose your words wisely!

Seating Arrangements

So that everyone involved can be assured they're receiving the same treatment and information, seating has been assigned for the formal evening dinners, with a roughly even mix between each nation. Each table seats 6-8 people. Seating will change each day. You'll have to find your name to find your seat, although assistants will be there to help if you're lost...or to redirect you back to your proper seat if you're seen wandering too much.

OOCly, players can plan their seating any way they like. With 3 evenings of dinners total, characters will find themselves at a different table each day. This means chances are high you'll be able to have your character sit and meet with everyone you want to thread with!

This feature is not meant to be restrictive. Its main purpose is to allow players to seat characters together who might not otherwise interact or be at the same table if given the choice. Don't worry too much about organizing or adhering to any strict seating arrangements. Feel free to have characters end up next to their friends by happenstance if that's your preference.

Delivering a Message

As one of the Summoned, you'll have the opportunity to communicate with your faction at the negotiation tables. During your time on the island, you can send a message or a short letter and have it delivered. This letter can be anything you want, within reason. Messages should be pertinent to events unfolding and can include topics such as:

◎ Your support and/or disapproval of a certain initiative being proposed as part of the negotiations. Do you disagree that the Badlands is as important as the Free Cities believes? Do you feel Thorne should relent on seeking an apology in favor of something better? Let them know.

◎ Additional proposals that you feel will aid the factions, but possibly your interests, as well. If you want to harness the Singularity's power yourself, you might consider encouraging the Free Cities to agree not to destroy it.

◎ Information you have that you believe can alter the course of the discussion.

To submit a message, reply here using the form provided under your corresponding faction heading.

Note that characters can only deliver a message to their own state officials. They will not be able to communicate with a foreign nation sitting at the negotiations. You can choose to address a specific individual, but both sitting at the table will be able to read it.

While we can't promise that every message will be actionable, we'll take a look to see overall how characters may sway the proceedings.

Obtaining Information

Be sure to pay attention and make the right moves - you'll find several avenues to gather information across all three days. Those of greater influence can use their reputation to speak to people in high places, while those who are lesser known can take advantage of their status to get close to someone without being noticed.

Eavesdropping (Rank 4 or Below)

As with any gathering, chatter is common. If you haven't made too much of a name for yourself among the natives (rank 4 or below), you'll have the chance to listen in on a conversation or two. This includes brand-new arrivals.

There are a few places where you can (somewhat) safely eavesdrop:

◎ The wine bar at the evening dinners, where attendants and organizers are seen conversing and coordinating around the corner nearby.

◎ The ship's lounge, where lower-ranked officials tend to gossip. "Sleeping" on one of the comfy couches from too much wine isn't unusual.

◎ The island's shores, where guards patroling the perimeter can be overheard as they pass by. High cliffs and loud ocean waves can help obscure you.

◎ The banquet tables. If you find yourself a bit "lost" by the wrong table while searching for your assigned seat, that's perfectly understandable.

To have your character listen in, reply here using the form provided.

Characters can eavesdrop on any faction they choose, including their own. OOC, players can choose the location and faction their character is attempting to seek information on. However, in-game, it's up to you whether your character will deliberately attempt to listen in and if they've sought a faction or person in particular. If you prefer, this act can be entirely accidental so characters who might not be the type to try and spy can still have the opportunity to participate.

Players can submit to listen in once per character, but you can also have a bonus opportunity for a second piece of information if you link a thread which describes your character in one of the specified areas above.

Meet & Greet (Rank 5 or Above)

A rare opportunity has presented itself where high-ranking officials can be found in one location. The nature of diplomacy means that if you've made enough of a name for yourself (rank 5 or above), chances are a foreign official will grant you a courtesy greeting and entertain a brief chat.

You'll have the chance to ask a couple of questions from the following officials you might not otherwise get to see face to face:

◎ THORNE: Anastasia Rhett, Lyle Vela, Jolene Sybell

◎ FREE CITIES: Quilleth Kaur, Aleksander Klingel

◎ SOLVUNN: Isar Hart, Josselyn Creed

To have your character ask a question, reply here using the form provided.

Players are welcome to have their character ask a question from someone of their own faction, as well! However, keep in mind characters will have plenty of opportunities to interact with NPCs from their own factions outside of this event.

Players can submit one question at a time per character for up to two questions total. You can spend both questions on one NPC or you can use them on two separate NPCs.

Comments

[cryptsleeper]

[Jaskier, you're killing him. Here he is being honest and you're killing his metaphors.

There's a soft noise of genuine gratitude. Words are hard, and what comes out as a little huff means thank you, I'll keep it in mind.]

I think I can make myself fit, if that's the route I decide to go down. I've already bought an oversize pillow for my part of the office, should I ever have the need for it.

[A dog bed. He bought himself a dog bed.] And you haven't helped those plants along at all since arriving?

[cointosser]

So you set up a dog bed? Er. Wolf bed? [He thought it, too.]

[You know, he's far beyond ever judging him for it now. Jaskier has slept on the ground far more than he's slept in beds over his time traveling with Geralt. Even a large pillow on the ground can be a very comfortable spot.

At least he's gotten used to this. Stepping in the office to see a wolf will hardly startle him now. He's battle-hardened. Sort of.]

I -- that's not a bad thing, you know! They are well taken care of, yet I may have given them a little boost. Unlike some, the Lunae to appear to greatly respect the land around them.

[cryptsleeper]

--A den. Like the cactus.

[The bed is under his drafting table. Shut up.]

It isn't a bad thing at all, I just want to know if is compulsion at this point, much like myself and food. But I will agree, the Lunae seem to understand and value stewarding their land.

[cointosser]

[Jaskier feels like calling that cactus a den is stretching the term a bit, but honestly, it's all semantics at this point. The wine is certainly helping ease back his desire to argue such semantics.

Jaskier considers it for a moment, but then shakes his head.]

No, not a compulsion. But it does give me a particular sense of joy -- similar, I imagine, to how a painter feels when the portrait has been finished. [Not that he hasn't made his own paintings for fun a few times, but nothing like someone who is a master of the craft.]

And that's your plan for the ship following, as well?

[cryptsleeper]

Not quite the creative joy, but close? [Actually, that begs a question.] Do you consider the plant ability another means of expressing the creative?

[He's never asked. It seems foolish to have not done so.]

As I've never been on a ship before, I cannot honestly say. I may simply feel overly confined on a large box.

[cointosser]

[Jaskier considers that, and nods. It's not perfect. He knows well the creative joy, and not only with music. He has put his hand to many things -- drawings, paintings, even embroidery, which he was not particularly good at because he was not patient enough for it.]

I don't know. Both yes and no. But I feel this is what I have heard from magic users before. As if it's a bit of a compulsion.

[To him, it would be strange to have magic and not use it. It isn't like Geralt, who is naturally unskilled at it because of his being a Witcher. He has his Signs, but Jaskier has yet to see him even make a glob of water. He's not even sure Geralt can.]

What? Never? Truly? [A part of him considers asking about vampires and running water...] Well, worst comes to worst, I can grow another cactus. One will have to explain where it came from on a ship, however, but that would be part of the fun.

[cryptsleeper]

That is interesting. I have to wonder if some of it is because it's more of a...nature connected thing? Sypha's skills were mostly best for combat, although she also made starting campfires a little easier. [There's a pause, realizing:] You never needed to see her in a fight either.

[Sypha splitting a vampire in half via ice wall is very hot, if Alucard says so himself.]

Why do I need a boat when the castle can just change location in a matter of moments? [Duh????] I feel as if a travel cactus is somehow both too silly and yet exactly what I require. As well as slightly dangerous.

[cointosser]

To be fair, if my magic was rather violent and not, as you say, nature, I am sure I would be much less inclined to indulge in it.

[Though the way the nightshade has begun seeding itself and growing on its own is a reminder from a higher power that he is not totally in control. That nature still has a wild mind of her own that will not be tempered.

Still. Jaskier thinks it says more about the magic that he still indulges despite it. Despite having used it in the aid of killing, once. (After all, it was only one more thief dead in the world.)]

As attractive as that sounds, she did scare me a bit. [Magic-wise, for sure, but also the sharpness of her tongue, the quick of her wit.]

Alucard, my dear, beautiful friend, you must acknowledge many people do things only to do them, not because they are more convenient. [He pats his shoulder with a degree of pity.] I do think you would have enjoyed the journeys to Skellige. Minus the Skelligans, I fear, who were often drunk and indulgent during such journeys. But the waters were bright and beautiful, and there were whales, and exotic fish, and sirens. I mean, if you're into that sort of thing.

[The way Jaskier says it, it sounds suspiciously like he was into that sort of thing.]

[cryptsleeper]

Or else you'd find non-violent ends for it. Ice magic can produce water in a pinch, fire helps with keeping things warm when it is rainy and awful out...[There is a gentle shrug.] Intent. And needs, I suppose. Sypha didn't bisect a vampire with a sharp wall of ice because she was talking a leisurely walk.

[He...is not helping with the scare bit, is he? Alucard smiles at that little revelation.] She has that effect, I think.

[Alucard will let the warmth linger in the words. Even if Jaskier is patting him a little patronizingly.] I could comment on a great number of things including the fact that of course sirens would be your thing, but I am not. I am instead going to politely concede the point and note that you sound a little like my mother telling my father to travel the world as men do. [Congrats, Al, you made it weird.]

[cointosser]

And a magic that is exclusively blowing up heads?

[If they're going to be talking about possibilities. Also, the thought makes him sort of laugh, drunkenly, in horror. One time he held a head. He thinks about mentioning it, then takes it back. No. No head talk around Alucard, unless it's a funny innuendo.]

Look, I'm a breast man. I'm not denying it. [And a wine guy. He's a wino, for sure, and it's becoming increasingly obvious that their wine mother tendencies, first exhibited upon their first meeting, have come out full-force the more he sips at the spiced drink.] Well? Do you think she was wrong? I, indeed, think she was very, very right. Men do travel, and if they're good men, or open to being good, then they become better men.

[cryptsleeper]

--Fertilizer?

[He's got nothing.]

Something in me suspects it'd be simpler to make a list of what you're not into. [Sorry Jaskier. He saw some delicious low hanging fruit.] I...think it depends. Traveling as men do means delays. Missing important things, preventing mistakes that have greater ripple effects. [Unfortunately, wine mom time seems to be veering off in a bad direction. Something Alucard himself is aware of.]

It needs to be balanced. And if I recall correctly, boats are quite small, meaning movement will be limited.

[cointosser]

[Jaskier sticks his tongue out at that answer, with a disgusted little shiver. It's bad enough catching heads, let alone watching them... ugh... burst.

At least he'll give points to Alucard for that very true statement. The list of things he does not like is much shorter. It would save quite a bit of ink.]

Ugh. You're doing that realism-slash-pessimism thing. Please, I'm trying to be optimistically philosophical, here. I've met plenty of men who travel and are utterly terrible, but I don't think one can blame every fault on -- what? The guilt over failing to prevent mistakes? You can't be responsible for everyone.

[He says as Alucard is here, responsibly protecting him as he hovers over a vat of wine to get progressively drunk.]

Ships, boats. They're the same thing. That's -- that's semantics, and you know it. I've been on very large ships, thank you. Big enough for beds. Multiple beds.

[cryptsleeper]

I cannot help if I've found it better to be cynical and then pleasantly surprised when I'm wrong. That means I get to be surprised Jaskier. [He takes the point. Begrudgingly. Because he doesn't want to dwell.] I'll just say there are certain people I've felt responsible for in the past and have failed, and leave it there.

[Jaskier, at least, is pretty easy. He's right in front of the dhampir, for one/]

That only works if you're game for such things and you don't have particular issues with your movement being constricted in the past. The latter is where my problem lies. [This counts as communicating concerns, thank you.]

[cointosser]

[Jaskier mutters to himself in a breath before another draw of wine.] Haven't we all?

[Jaskier simply prefers to not let it turn him into some frigid thing. And there is, of course, a frigid side to Alucard, but he still has plenty of his warmth. So there's that. (It's a very high commendation, coming from Jaskier.)]

Can't you just fly above it if you get cramped? [Honestly, he may now at this point be a little too inebriated to fully grasp what Alucard's problem is with this. Now, if it started with the fact they were being forced to go, Jaskier would understand.] Didn't you sleep in a coffin? What a curious thing to have an issue with confinement. I'm not judging, by the way, it's -- it's only curious. Perhaps growing you that travel cactus is in the cards, after all.

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard knows he's usually cold and offputting. There are days when that side of himself is all too easy to slide back towards. But Jaskier's long earned the honor of never dealing with that shit again.]

And go where, exactly? Over water that stretches forever, it seems? [....Alucard sighs. Pinches the bridge of his nose, realizing that his friend is a little too drunk to pick up on what he's trying not to say out loud.]

The coffin was by choice, and quite prior to other assaults upon my freedom.

[cointosser]

[Thank the gods. Not that he would not deal with it, because he loves Alucard despite and because of all his strangeness, cold and aloofness alike. Admittedly, it is always a bit easier to be without such things.]

You know very well, as do I, that we have long discovered such water does not go on forever. [And Jaskier at least keeps most of his teasing to himself, considering Alucard has time stretching forever in front of him, which Jaskier finds much more terrifying than water.]

If you ever get another one, I want to try it. [He is definitely a little drunk now. Sorry. But he's at least in mind enough to keep his hands to himself, because it's truly not fair how attractive Alucard is in his new getup.] For a night. It must be rather comfortable, but... you do sometimes sleep in a cactus...

[They may have very different definitions of comfort.]

[cryptsleeper]

And you're missing my point on purpose which is that there is no where to go on a damn boat. [He huffs out a breath, annoyed.] I need at least a large sip if we're going to keep fighting abut boats.

[The argument is much too silly.]

I suppose I could just conjure up the original in the Horizon, if you're that curious. I'll never be able to quite recreate it, although I don't want to hear a word of complaint about the interior décor. [He knows Jaskier will hate it.]

At the time, it was less about comfort, and more about being able to rest and recover. My father had just struck me, and that needed time to heal.

[Wordlessly, Alucard taps at the part of his scar that usually pokes out from the low cut of his shirt. There's no way Jaskier's missed it over the years.] It goes from shoulder to hip.

[cointosser]

Oh. [Jaskier looks up, rubbing an eye, from where he's been mostly staring at Alucard's chest. As he drinks, his eyes simply tend to move downwards to more savory things... completely out of his control.] I didn't realize we were fighting.

[Like a pair of slightly wet cats, perhaps.

He swallows a little heavily, attempting to not choke.] I recall. Glimpses. [Bringing up the father thing is not fair, as otherwise Jaskier would've insisted it makes far more sense to rest and recover in a bed over a coffin, but who he is to judge?

It's more that the reminder is a harsh one. Jaskier's knowledge of said father is short, brief, and violent.

Jaskier gives him a soft, drunk pat on the chest.] Worry not. Though I may have fun with you, I care neither if you hate boats or sleep in a coffin. You are my friend, through and through, and lovely.

[Yes, he's reached that level of wine. He has not been holding back. Maybe it's time to go back to his room...]

[cryptsleeper]

Only lightly. And only because confinement is an issue for me. [Realizing where Jaskier's eyes have gone, Alucard just lets out a little huff that is more amused than anything else. His face is up here, bard.]

The castle and my personal crypt are two different things. [Alucard realizes that talking about Dracula while one of them is decidedly Full of Alcohol and the other has had a little is a very bad idea. Better to steer away from that.] For one, mine was built under an entire city. Whose main entrance was from a graveyard.

[That's. That's his chest Jaskier. Enjoy the tiddies?

Alucard doesn't mind the touch though, and that really says everything about where Jaskier sits in Alucard's mind. That's his friend. Friends can do these things.] I feel like if I keep encouraging compliments there's going to be something musical when sobering up happens.

[Alucard fakes the shiver that follows. Ah well.] Can we keep walking? The cold sets in if I stand about.

[cointosser]

[He's seen Alucard's face plenty! There are other things to appreciate, and as Jaskier's fingers linger, he definitely is. But he is still aware enough only to smooth out Alucard's clothing, then make one final dip of the wine.

Ah. Nocwich. He'll miss this place.]

I know you're trying to get me to stop drinking. And honestly, it's very nice of you. [His new goblet in hand, he offers his arm to Alucard (he is polite, of course) and they move on.] I realize now that you truly must not believe I've already written music about you. It's very sweet. Very naive. [Another sip.] Of course I have. Do you think I run into incredibly beautiful vampires every day? Come now.

[cryptsleeper]

[Proposal: just move to Nocwich when all the work in Libertas is done.  Alucard is considering it.]

It can be both.  [They just walk arm in arm now, don't they?  Alucard can pinpoint when it started (his suggestion about the firm),  he's simply in wonder that they're still going.

He does turn his head at the information though, tilting his head slightly.]  I've...actually I wasn't aware that you had.  No.  The music part.  I assumed you must have run into a vampire or two back on your sphere based on the fact Geralt's entire profession exists and that Ciri followed after him in the trade.

[cointosser]

[They do. Jaskier is not a sloppy drunk and does not need the help moving, but he does, moreso than he normally does, appreciate the touch of another, the warmth of them against him. And yes, even he can attest that Alucard has his own kind of warmth, both literal and not.

All right. He may be leaning on him a bit.]

I do not normally introduce myself to the creatures Geralt slays. And, by the way, he did not hunt vampires. Not during our travels together. There are only those I suspected to be, but... I suppose they kept to themselves. [He pauses, and his head swims, and he realizes -- wait. Does Alucard not know? It's so funny that he thinks of it now, as if it were not obvious to anyone he's ever met. Of course no one would know. Is it dangerous information at all? To show how this place works? How it can play time itself?

If Jaskier cannot trust Alucard, though, then he cannot trust anyone he's met here.] I only met Ciri once. Before we came here. [He wipes the corner of his mouth, where the sugar of the wine lingers.] She was a child. And I don't think she liked me at all.

[cryptsleeper]

[Jaskier weighs about as much as a bag of flour from Alucard's perspective. He's more than welcome to lean and keep leaning.]

Oh, I asked him about that part ages ago. Apparently none were ever bothersome enough to require his attention. It helped my...issues...early on. [Being nearly murdered by would be vampire hunters only to be thrown into a cell with Geralt was really, really not great for Alucard's stability. He can realize that now, and there's always going to be bitterness at Thorne for treating him in the worst way possible after pulling him from an all too vulnerable spot.

But Jaskier pulls him away from that nasty, gnarled path of thoughts with a truth he didn't expect.] I...did not know that, actually. I've always made it a point of respect not to pry for information. I'd rather it be freely offered in natural conversation.

[cointosser]

[Jaskier hums. In some ways, that Alucard asked -- and, of course, Geralt was truthful -- does not surprise him.] I'm sure you've had your bad experiences, and Witchers do have certain reputations, but there is a reason I trust Geralt with my life. He does care about things. Deeply. And he does not hunt that which does not earn ire.

[Not that he feels he needs to defend Geralt, after it seems the two have sorted out their differences. But Jaskier is sure, fame or not, he would not have followed another Witcher.

Ever since he saw the way he handled Filavandrel and the elves... and that he offered his life in exchange for a simple bard, who had annoyed him to death... no, that was all he'd needed to see, wasn't it?

Jaskier knocks his head against Alucard's shoulder.] Well, isn't that what this is? [To be fair, no one has much attempted to pry with Jaskier, or with Ciri. Possibly because Geralt might be very annoyed with such attempts.] When I first met her, I had no idea who she was. And I feared that, from her reaction, I had... well. Sort of died. In her time.

[He knows it probably sounds foolish. But for those few moments, before she convinced him otherwise, he had been terrified. Terrified he was marching towards some inevitable Destiny he could not avoid. That the Continent's greatest bard might be cut down in his youth -- a tragedy that would ensure he was remembered, and ensure he would be overshadowed in time.

But besides bringing that up, his inebriated mind gets stuck on another point --] You didn't ask to hear the songs. You don't want to hear any?

[It's only the drink that might actually be tinging his tone with a heavy disappointment.]

[cryptsleeper]

In my own defense, I had no idea of any of that at the time, and to say I wasn't in a good state of mind is being generous.

[Alucard knows now he needn't have worried. That hell, Geralt might have made a very good Belmont if given the chance. But time and place being what they were, he still feels he had the right to be concerned at the time.

He concedes the point with a quiet nod of his head. They're in that kind of place now with the wine and the gentle cold of a winter's evening. It makes sense.] But you were proven wrong, and were very much alive? I assume. You probably would have had more of a reaction if that wasn't the case.

[Jaskier wears every emotion on his sleeve. For someone with only flashes of emotional intelligence, it is rather helpful.]

How could I ask about something I never knew anything about until just now? [Oh. He doesn't like that disappointed tone.] Was there a reason you didn't tell me until a moment ago?