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

—sam /outwear.

[carmesi]

[wanda doesn't stray too far away from the arcanis, finding that she didn't want to be part of the crowd that blustered towards the shore to witness the display of the sea creatures taking to the sky. she prefers how the ship is emptier, giving her more room to pick a space to stand by and look over at this phenomena. she stands by the main deck, listening to the lunae staff mention how in such an occasion wishes can be made and should be shared. the traditions are not unfamiliar, even if they're not entirely like the ones wanda knows from her world.

wishes aren't usually meant to be shared, are they? if one wants them to come true.

she offers her thanks as she gets a mug of mulled cider—reminding her plenty of what she can find in solvunn—and she pockets away the bag with spiced nuts for later. for now, the cold is countered by the mug in her hands, as she makes herself scarce, climbing up towards the bow of the ship where less people are gathered. the last thing she would want to do, honestly, is to have others share their wishes with her. it's all a little too personal, in her opinion.

thoughts of that self-exclusion scatter from her mind, though, as she takes note of a familiar back. well, more like she recognizes the emotions and thoughts exuding from the owner of said back—]

Sam?

[her approach is silent, reaching the tall man who leans against the railing, looking, too, at the beautiful spectacle of whales slowly swimming through and behind the clouds, whistling songs intermittently. they had met once before, in nocwich, and although she had lost track of him since, she considered his company easy and his demeanor welcoming.

she takes note of his lack of mug in hand.]

Skipping the cider?

[outwear]

[ Having found himself less than eager to participate for more than the requisite amount of time, Sam had only stuck around long enough to not completely fulfill his role as a hermit. He'd smiled tightly, refused a few offerings, and eventually made his escape to the chill of the deck.

Under the spectacular sights — things Sam would have imagined he'd only see in a dream — he lets his mind wander to the place where wonder used to be. The whimsy here, adorned in expense and guised in the general practices of civility, it all feels very otherworldly (and why shouldn't it?).

Still, he feels numb to much of it. Is he helping because he wants to or because he has to or just because? Existential dread, minus the dread; it feels too often what's the point?

He's lingering on this when Wanda draws him from his distant thoughts. In the days since last meeting Wanda, Dean had afforded Sam the funds to dress more appropriately. This evening he's found in something simple but appropriate, although a large portion of it is covered in a fur-lined cape that interferes with his hair at the shoulders. It's taken a little practice to find a way to fit in, but Sam ekes closer to passing by the day.

Perking, he smiles, laughs gently as he shows his empty hands. ]

You caught me. I wasn't feeling very participatory. But— [ He gestures to the whale-like creatures and the clouds. ] —it's hard to want to miss this.

[carmesi]

[there it is, the easy company and welcoming demeanor in the form of a smile, of gentle laughter. there is a little in his mind, things that she doesn't try to pick up on too much because she wants to respect the privacy of his own thoughts, but there is still room for wanda to find it admirable that his spirits seem otherwise unaffected by those thoughts.

it is something she takes as invitation, nonetheless, to join him, taking a few more steps to lean against the railing herself, too.]

It's certainly beautiful.

[she agrees with him that it's hard to want to miss this display. it certainly isn't usual. her eyes are wide, looking over at the sky, the warmth of the cup keeping her hands steady despite the chill of the night.]

I hope you don't mind my company. [this is when she turns her eyes to him; he seems more settled in what abraxas is and what it expects of them.] It takes a ship to realize how many of us are here.

[confined, forced to be together. raising her hands, wanda gestures at the cup with a tilt of her chin in its direction.]

Do you want one?

[outwear]

[ Wanda's observation makes Sam smirk, the small puff escaping him misting into the air. He hadn't considered it, probably because he'd mostly stuck to his cabin, but knowing the numbers of just his own group, it really shouldn't come as a surprise. And the Summoned specifically — interesting that they're somehow both meant to stand out and also blend in.

Silently, he waves off her offer, continuing on to address her earlier comment. ]

No, I'm glad for the company, but I hadn't thought about the rest. We're almost a small army...

[ The pointed edge of his comment probably won't be lost. He has a hard time trusting the purpose of their arrivals in this place, but there's no denying some people do need the help. He'd taken steps to investigate that on his own, and while Sam knows full well there's nowhere suffering is rife, he thinks there's plenty of sense in the idea of trusting but also verifying.

He turns to lean an arm on the railing so he's more properly facing her. She looks comfortable and prepared for the cold, something he notes as the chill in the air seems to cut through him. ]

How have you been, Wanda?

[carmesi]

[he's been having thoughts about that, hasn't he? about them being a small army, about the conflict and the impeding war that seems to be but a book's page flip away. she remembers when a lot of the summoned had rallied to say that they felt that they were being used, just pawns in a game.

perhaps sam's thoughts don't stray too far from that assumption.

wanda takes a sip of her cider, quiet, watching as the sea creatures cast off beautifully, slowly, across the expanse of the night sky. this world of abraxas feels like a dream sometimes.

—but then sam shifts his attention towards her, looking away from the spectacle before them, as if it weren't such a fascinating thing. all she can do is offer him a shrug.]

I can't actually complain. [it's a non-answer, she knows. turning her gaze to sam, she points at her cup, tapping at it a few times with her forefinger.] I also think you're missing out.

[it's not bad, the cider—]

I could make you one with magic. [because there's something about their first encounter that still gnaws at her about him.] You're interested in that. Magic. Right? —or... have I gotten that wrong?

[outwear]

[ Fully appreciating Wanda's approach, he feels a bit of the tension leave his shoulders. The warmth of her invitation is every bit as useful as the offer itself and at this point Sam's basically convinced. ]

Familiar with magic. I've observed a few spells.

[ Which is a bold understatement, yes, but Sam doubts she'll be bothered by the little white lie. It's one of those things that's easily passed over in Abraxas, anyway, being a magical locale in its own right. ]

I'll take you up on that, sure, but not just so you can show off again.

[ He laughs quietly, amused. He won't be forgetting Wanda's earlier display any time soon, and after their initial meeting, this feels startlingly easy. ]

[carmesi]

Me, using magic to show off?

[she sounds taken aback, but it would be easy to tell from the smile that breaches upon her face that she's taken no insult from it. because of the statement, though, she is willing to make the display of her 'duplicating' the cup of mulled cider the most mundane thing.

a few sparkles in scarlet, a twirl of her hand, and like puzzle pieces arranging themselves into place, another mug appears onto her upturned palm. this, she offers to him.

("mundane", but it's probably still fascinating to watch.)]

Here you go. Let me know how it tastes.

[outwear]

[ No issues with fascination here — Sam is observant and attentive like that. He wonders briefly (again) about the color, finding it unlike other forms of magic he'd encountered before.

Undeterred, he takes the fabricated mug into hand and sips it with an amount of obviousness that borders on ridiculous. Like he's deemed it necessary to give his Yelp! review of Wanda's service immediately. ]

Mm. [ He nods, and it looks like maybe it's a middling response, but then— ] Yeah, that's really good. Wow.

[ And then he salutes with the cup. ]

Is it real? The cup, the drink? Does it just exist now?

[carmesi]

[wanda's all too amused by his reaction and his subsequent 'review' of the given product. it's not meant as an insult towards sam, but he does seem like a pretty simple guy, in the sense that it is easy to converse with him; there's some easy normalcy in the same way as with sam wilson (hilariously, because of their names), like there's no further expectation other than what already is being displayed.

it's nice to have her magic be seen in a positive light.]

I told you that you were missing out.

[though she is also aware that he's curious, and those questions that follow are but a fraction of what he wants to ask.

she finds herself wanting to sate his curiosity.]

—yeah. It's all real. Something extra for the kitchen to wash. [even if she could technically just remove it from reality just as easily.] My magic is a lot... lesser here, because of the Singularity, but transmutation is something that most magic-users in my world can do with no problem.

[not to her extent—of being able to create life from nothing, but she's not going to create an animal here on the ship for demonstration.]

Not that there are that many. Is magic something you're somewhat familiar with in your world?

[outwear]

[ Turning his back to the beautiful display laid before them, Sam settles himself more casually against the railing, one long leg braced, the other crooked against a cross bar. Like a great flamingo, Sam perches with his magical cider and takes in what Wanda explains.

Something from nothing feels like the antithesis of what he knows, but Sam keeps an open mind, instead allowing his mind to drift back to the world he'd left behind not all that long ago. ]

Part of my work dealt in magic. I've done some basic spells — quite a few, really, but basic magic doesn't require a particular aptitude where I'm from. [ He sips, then tips his head back and forth, making a personal concession on that rundown. ] Well, beyond speaking Latin and sourcing incredibly rare ingredients.

[carmesi]

Speaking Latin, specifically?

[that's an interesting take on magic. as for what wanda knows, though she doesn't need words or gestures to use her magic should she not desire to use them, there is strength in words regardless of language. the specificity of latin gives her a thought of... religion?

but, then again, isn't magic the foundation of most—if not all—religions?

wanda glances at him for a moment before back out towards the display of floating sea creatures, thoughtful for a moment. it intrigues her, because of her more recent introduction into the world of magic proper, thanks to agatha and the darkhold.]

Would you describe an example to me?

[(...is he also calling himself not quite magically inclined? wanda is sure she had sensed something different from him, before—and even now—just beneath the surface. hm.)]

[outwear]

It's not just Latin, no. Sumerian, too. Archaic languages, typically.

[ And this is where Sam shivers, the shift of the wind feeling altogether perfectly bitter for this moment. He hesitates here, mouth slightly open like he's thinking about it, chewing the side of his lip for a moment before looking around to make sure they're alone. ]

A particular curse removal might require an item made by God, but forbidden to man, an item made by man, but forbidden to God, and... the caster's heart. You say a few words in Latin and—

[ He makes a poof noise, the P being punctuated as he imitates something dissipating around them.

What he doesn't say here is that this spell in particular has been on Sam's mind. It's significant, not that Wanda could know that (unless, of course, she can feel it on him). And behind that significance? Guilt, dread, heartache, and a renewed fear — something flaring behind Sam's carefully reconstructed walls. He's got nothing but rubble these days, but he's spackled it together as best as he can, walls mudded with devotion and loyalty and inherently good intentions still thin despite that.

(A proverbially close inspection of any of the cracks would lead to the image of Sam alone in his brittle little box, head in his hands.)

He sips his cider to stem the desire to quickly change the subject, making a production of enjoying it once more. It's really good, he can't argue that. ]

[carmesi]

[through his explanation, it gives wanda the clear understanding that sam knows more than he's letting on at first. he seems unlike the part, at first glance, but this—along as with what she picks up—is telling enough.]

You're the scholarly type, aren't you?

[studious, she means. it's a vibe she's getting. another vibe she is picking up is that he's very much trying to change the subject, a flash of an image of despair closing in on him. he exudes quietude, calm, but on the inside—? she wonders how much he is harboring.

is it her business, though? she shouldn't intrude in the troubles of others.]

—not too long ago, I was desperate about getting my children back. I was alone, tucked myself away into a corner of the planet, and kept only to the company of magic and spells of... debatable character. [she turns the cup around in her hands, leaning forward a bit more to look over at the water below them, crashing against the ship.] Seeking out the right magical element to get what I wanted was a road full of failure. Magic can be dangerous — it can fool you into thinking it can give you what you want, and then you lose sight of what's morally right.

['the caster's heart'.

a sacrifice?]

If — you ever find yourself wanting to talk about the reason you want to change the subject, I'm more than all ears. [she turns her head to look at him.] I'd rather others didn't make the same mistakes I did.

[outwear]

[ He's nodding and listening — his is absolutely the scholarly type (but it's not all he's good at) — and when Wanda starts talking about her children, he has the good sense not to ask what happened. It's clearly a tough subject, and that she shares it at all makes Sam wonder if she's just that kind of person, or if— ]

Oh, I wasn't—

[ He pauses, thinking. He was trying to change the subject. Or divert, at least. Primarily because it's the last spell that had been cast before he'd arrived her and it... still cuts deep. Sam wonders if he said as much, or if he just thought it very loudly. Either way, he looks appropriately contrite. ]

Well, I— I-I mean, you, too. I'm a pretty good at listening.

[ And he muffles any more awkward words with a quick drink of his cooling cider, finding it nearly gone before he even knows it. It's not that he doesn't appreciate the offer, but he hardly knows Wanda and fears the explanation would require a Hell of a lot of background.

(Really, though, he's marked as the Hermit for a reason.) ]

Does what you create come with... provenance? If you were to create an artifact, would it possess the same abilities as the original?

[carmesi]

[he diverts the conversation regardless, and wanda's smile is a thin line of tight understanding. there are things that aren't easy to share, and something tells her that sam was, perhaps, not expecting to have to share as much, at this point.

she focuses her attention back to the cup in her hands and takes a long sip from the cider. it makes her nose crinkle at the prolonged taste as she sets it back down against the railing.

sam's question is a good one. wanda considers it for a moment.]

It'd depend. There are certain things that, given their nature, cannot be created as a one-to-one copy. Magical artifacts, for instance, are unlikely to be like the original. [curious, though—] Had something in mind?

[outwear]

Almost always, yeah.

[ He taps his fingers on the cup, mind digging into the problem at hand. With Dean's curse, it's hard to know if things will go the same way as they had back home. Hard to know if the curse if the same, if the cure's the same.

Figuring he'll give Wanda something, he glances over and offers the thinnest of smiles punctuated by a gentle laugh, more exasperated than amused. ]

It might be helpful to test some spells from home to see if everything reacts the same here. Some ingredients that are fairly specific to home — herbs, even — might not exist here. It's stuff like that I wonder about.

[carmesi]

[someone who can't keep himself from thinking—he must be filled with worries and anxieties. she's glad she hasn't pushed her magic too far into his mind, in that case; those are always unpleasant to feel as her own.

she tilts her head at the way he posits the following. spells from home, ingredients, herbs, things he wonders about.]

Solvunn has plenty of land to grow things in. Perhaps with a green thumb and some magic you could get someone ['someone'] to help you with those herbs. Or, should they exist, they might be worth asking about.

[she's all ears, buddy — though she's not entirely expecting him to open up, should he not desire it. the invitation is there, if nothing else.]

[outwear]

[ If Sam were to look through the window from the other side, he'd expect to see Wanda filled with similar worries and anxieties. Her initial introduction — something that Sam recalls vividly — had given him a small picture of Wanda's expectations towards people. Something says whatever she's been through, it still colors much of her life. ]

Someone, huh?

[ A quiet laugh escapes, not as awkward as it could be, but Sam softens all the more. He sips, hiding a smile. ]

I wouldn't say no to a little help, but I'd be concerned with providing the option to the general public. A lot of the spells aren't safe, obviously.