the night of wonders.

[acatamods]

I ▫ main IV ▫ premise       XI ▫ applications XIV ▫ activity II ▫ logs V ▫ rules VII ▫ bestiary   IX ▫ canon updates XII ▫ taken XV ▫ drop/hiatus III ▫ ooc VI ▫ faq VIII ▫ setting   X ▫ mods XIII ▫ reserves XVI ▫ players the night of wonders. QUICK LINKS COMMENT SECTION: MOD QUESTIONS | EXPLORATION | WORK SUBMISSIONS WORLD INFO: WHEN YOU WAKE UP | LOCALITIES | JUMP SUMMARY EVENT INFO: NIGHT OF WONDERS | FESTIVAL EVENTS | THE FIRES | FOURTH WALL INFO AU INFO: AU QUESTIONS, CLASSES, RACES, STEP BY STEP CHARACTER BUILD GUIDE Seemingly overnight, the Guild Hall owned and operated by the Silver Blade is decked to the nines Long streamers and banners are draped and a massive banner has been unfurled across the front of the building. It hails the events of the coming two weeks: The Night of Wonders Murmurs abound through the city; a thrill of excitement is in the air, and the locals are delighted to finally have cause to celebrate. The theme of The Night of Wonders is one of rebirth. The people of Mirabar are celebrating the continued survival of their home, the success of taming the Giant Rebellions across Faerun, and their resident adventurers! You are all thanked, profusely, for helping reinvigorate Mirabar with your hard work, and the people of Mirabar want to celebrate with you! Booths have sprung up everywhere, full of food, music, laughter, and joy. Take a trip around the city over the next few weeks or so, and see what you find: there is no shortage of things to do in the riverside city of Mirabar. Especially, it seems, because there are a plethora of new people. Not members of the Circle, but others? It seems that Astoria's grip on the Rift has slipped and other Travelers have found their way to Mirabar, just in time for the festival in question. You have no idea how they got here, but hey -- they're here, right? We may as well enjoy the party. YOU'LL SHOOT YOUR EYE OUT. Like any good festival, there are a ton of street games and vendors to choose from! Try your hand at an archery contest, where a bullseye nets you 1 GP, but playing at all gets you a weird-looking stuffed rabbit. There are also your classic "throw a ball at a bottle" games where they seem awfully rigged. Are those bottles glued down? What a rip-off! There is also a jousting tournament, which really means sticking a broom between your legs and running at someone with a padded sword. Whoever gets hit first loses! It's mostly meant for children, but the local children will definitely encourage adult Travelers to give it a shot. Finally, there's no shortage of food to buy -- turkey legs, meat pies, popcorn, sweet cakes, and cotton candy are abound throughout the festival. And of course, plenty of mead. Explore, have fun, and have a blast! ROW, ROW, ROW YOUR BOAT; PUNCH, PUNCH, PUNCH YOUR THROAT One of the highlights of the festival is the infamous kayak race -- a hallmark of Mirabar culture and sport. The leather kayaks, handmade by the locals in Mirabar, are beloved and much bragged about, and after a month or so of testing, they are finally ready for the tournament. Many sign up -- locals, members of the Circle, travelers that have wandered from distant lands . . . but only one team can conquer! So, congratulations to TEAM 1! You have won 100 GP each, a set of three trophies, and and all-you-can-drink voucher at the Dusty Coffer for the duration of the festival! Cheers! Alternatively, you can also enter in the fighting tournament, set up by a local bunch of rowdy Guild members that just like to punch each other. The fighting tournament is a bit less prestigious than the kayak tournament, but you've still got a bunch of folk who turn up to see who is the best around. Are you a winner, or a loser? Either way, much praise to RUBY ROSE who winds up winning the whole lot! You win 300 GP, and a championship belt that looks like it is made out of gold, but it is definitely not. Feel free to play out races, match-ups, scuffles, or observation! The winners may be set in stone, but you can feel free to thread out whatever rows or punches to your heart's content. 🡆 Prior to the tournament, you might hear what some of the betting rings have to say...who has their eyes on you? Or is it a friend of yours, by any chance? Looks like word goes around, it could go in any direction. 🡆 The crowd around you is roaring with passion and excitement. They may even get as heated as you do, so try not to let their zealous reactions get the better of you. 🡆 The most you'll get after the tournament is a towel to wipe off your blood, sweat, and potentially tears. If you've been injured, it could be in your best interest to seek medical hel and rest. Or not. THE CEREMONY OF LIGHTS. Every night of the festival, the people of Mirabar go down to the river's edge with paper lanterns. You can get them by the boatload, for free, provided to every single person who wishes to have one. On these lanterns are tags which you can write whatever you would like. Should you ask the locals, they say that they write down their hopes, their dreams, and their wishes. Once they do that, they set out into the boats and push them out into the air, to send them to the gods, and pray for proper fortune. You may take out a boat (which are on the river a plenty) if you wish to do so, and participate in the ceremony to your heart's content. But there is something almost solemn, about the ceremony. These people, clearly, are hoping for an end to conflict, and a continued prosperity to their city. What do you wish for? PAPER FACES ON PARADE. Finally, at the end of the Festival, there is a massive masquerade in the Guild hall. Everyone is wearing a mask, ranging from basic black to brightly colored with a lot of feathers and jewels. It seems everyone has gotten into the spirit of the Festival, and the locals are intent on partying until the sun comes up. There is a live band, a lot of dancing, laughter, and joy. There is a massive table of food of every type you can think of, a plethora of wine and ale, and endless merrymaking to be had. Feel free to dance, eat, drink, and celebrate for as long as you desire! But be sure to go outside at around 11:00 PM, to watch the beautiful fireworks display over the river. You can run out to grab a boat, to watch it on the river proper, or you can watch it from outside the Guild hall. It's a lovely, romantic end to your hard work in Faerun . . . enjoy it, and each other. 🡆 In the heat of the dance, it's likely that you'll be passed from one partner to another. Try to make do with the foreign — or perhaps unexpectedly familiar face that will be greeting you. And try not to get caught in the middle of a slow dance... 🡆 Some of the food and drink offered will serve as a bit of a pick-me-up: the people of Faerun have decided to use their magic to ensure that the party is as enjoyable as can be. So for those who are a bit more on the antisocial, troubled or moodier side, perhaps an enchanted dinner will make the night easier on you? 🡆 Take the boat a tad too far out and you run the risk of getting stranded in the river. The current grows stronger the further down along you go, so do be careful. MOD NOTES. 🡆 This is a fourth wall event! Please feel free to tag around and have fun in the festival log! We have a list of reference links at the top of the event post for your reference, if you need help. This log is free for everyone to play on, even characters who are currently not in game. 🡆 A separate log for those investigating the fires referenced in the OOC post will be posted. This log is purely for entertainment and fun for the fourth wall! The fire investigation will be limited to those who showed interest. 🡆 If you have any questions, please ask them on the original OOC post here! This includes fourth wall participants!

Comments

the Skull in the Jar | Lockwood & Co | 4th Wall Chara OTA

[inajar]

WAT

[ He's a teenage boy, lanky with black hair not terribly well-kept. He's bony and while his clothes are formal -- a nice white shirt and grey slacks -- they don't fit him well, too short. That and his knobbly feet are bare. At the moment, he happens to be staring at his long, equally knobbly hands as if in disbelief. He only does this for so long before he spreads his arms above his head in a gesture of delight and begins to do a little dance, ]

Yes! Yes, oh, yes, oh yes!

[ He laughs a wild, hysterical laugh. He looks like a psycho. ]

GAMES

[ He literally hip checks a child out of the way: ]

Move it small fry, let a real pro take the wheel.

[ He is not a real pro at anything but insults, which he happily begins to fling at the game's attendant in al sorts of horrifying and colorful language. What was that about evisceration??? He says it with such cheer and such sibilant charm too.. ]

PAPER FACES

[ His mask is a skull. It's terrifying. A putrid green with rolling eyes and a long blackened tongue. He cackles behind it terrifyingly, and takes anyone who ends up his dance partner on an absolutely dizzying spin throughout the hall. ]

Come on now! Keep up, you silly mare!

[ And he's laughing. When he isn't dancing he's stuffing his face so quickly that you're genuinely afraid he might choke. ]

OH. LUCY. OH, LUCY.

[ There's no way that he came here without her. They're connected. Meant to be. Wasn't that obvious? Every moment he's looking for her, trying to feel out her essence in a world that seems to have changed the nature of essence entirely... But he'd know her anywhere, wouldn't he? Wasn't Lucy Carlyle the one steadfast thing in the world?

He's perched inelegantly upon the stone base of a statue, peering shrewdly at every passerby... ]

[andco]

[It's lucky, then, that Faerun has done very little to her appearance. Or maybe that wouldn't really matter at all. Maybe they really are connected, and the skull would have recognized her even if she'd been bright blue with horns sprouting from between strands of her scraggly dark bob cut. Maybe he would have sensed her as she'd drawn near, both hands gripping the rapier in its sheath while trying (and failing) not to stare at everyone. Maybe she'd only come down this direction because she'd somehow felt him too - the pull of his psychic presence at the edge of her awareness the most, no the only, familiar thing in the whole wide world.

Or maybe not. After all, she's been squatting here in the shadow on the opposite side of the exact same statue for a while now and neither of them seems to be the wiser.

She isn't quite sitting with her knees pulled to her chest, but it's a near thing. Not that she's frightened, of course. Everyone has been perfectly kind(-ish), even that giant lizard person. And it's not like wherever this is so much as holds a candle to the deathly, bitter cold of The Other Side. But--

She just needs a second to catch her breath is all.]

Get it together, [she scolds herself fiercely.] What exactly do you think you're going to accomplish by sitting around? You should be be retracing your footsteps. If you got here in the first place, there has to be a way back.

Caduceus Clay | Critical Role | 4th Wall OTA

[brewthedead]

A. Arrival

Well this is unexpected.

[Outside of The Heroes’ Hearth a tall figure stood, looking just a tad bit perplexed. He would be easy to overlook if it weren’t for the fact he was nearly 7 feet tall and had bright pink hair. If his dreams weren’t usually of a more natural setting he would chalk his arrival up to something of that nature. This feels more real than a dream though and Caduceus certainly had a sense for things like that.

The thin firbolg rubbed at his chin and then noticed someone coming out of the front door. He decided he didn’t have much to lose and stepped forward.]

Excuse me. I can’t say I’m very familiar with this particular city. Could you perhaps tell me where I am? It would be much appreciated.

[After all, how does one exactly go from being out at sea to being in the middle of a city?]

B. Kayak
[While he doesn’t have much of a love for water after the past few days, Caduceus finds himself intrigued at watching the boat races. Perhaps more accurately is that he doesn’t have much interest in any of the games or booze of the main festival, so what better entertainment than watching others race in boats?

Caduceus notices someone trying to make their way through the crowd and he takes a step back.]

Here. If you’re trying to see, there’s a spot.

[Unless you were over 7 feet, it would be difficult to block his view.]

I think they’re about to start the next set of races. Do you know much about boat racing?

C. Lanterns
[He sits on a bench near the docks, the lantern resting gently by his feet as he stares quietly at the fortune on his lap. The piece of paper is obviously blank and Caduceus looks like he might be overthinking what to write. After a moment he feels your eyes on him and he looks up.]

Sorry. I know it will start soon, but this seems like something that should be taken pretty seriously. Did you notice?

[He gestures at some of the locals as they walk past. He’d seen their hands cradling the lanterns, anxious expressions mingled with hope.]

There’s only one other place I think I’ve seen people be so somber.

D. Mask

[Even with a mask it’s easy to spot Caduceus with his shock of pink hair. Normally he might have selected a simpler mask, but it was hard to pass up the pale green-white mask with floral accents along the eyes. He liked it and that was all that really mattered.

He wasn’t a dancer, but he enjoyed watching others enjoying life. It seemed a good place to sit and watch. Not to mention that unlike the festival, this place had more substantial food, but more importantly some offerings of tea. He sipped at the new brew before him, detecting herbs that he could tell helped with energy and good feelings.]

This is a good tea.

((Caduceus is from around Episode 36. I don't mind spoilers though.))

WELL... GOOD BECAUSE HERE'S A HALFLING??? c

[flask]

[Veth's eyes are certainly on the firbolg, and not because he looks odd to her. She's sort of frozen to the spot, unsure if she should... say anything to him. He wouldn't recognize her, she thinks. Unless Fjord is right and he really is secretly a mindreader.

But then he spots her staring, and she nervously coughs and looks away, tugging at her collar.]

Uhh... Yeah, I don't know if there's a... time limit. You're probably fine.

[But then, despite the fact that her brain is currently yelling at her that she should just leave... She doesn't want to just let Mr. Clay be alone here. He wouldn't even know Molly, aside from recognizing his coat.

Also, she is incredibly fucking nosy.]

...What were you thinking of wishing for?

Roxas | Kingdom Hearts | CRAU from Balance

[seasaltkeys]

[ooc: Roxas is a Human Fighter]

A. A Whole New World?

[This is a little new to Roxas. Last he checked, he was still on the Moon Base and he was pretty sure they were allowed to get some rest. The Director had said something about a retreat but he's pretty sure that wasn't here. He's never even heard of Mirabar before. But if he's still on Faerun, he can probably get back. Or at least to Neverwinter.

Those familiar with this boy will see a familiar sight of spikey blond hair and bright blue eyes. Though he stands a little straighter, and has a sword at his side. Almost as if he fits in with the other adventurers in this world. On his right arm is a silver bracer, which he seems to be tapping at.]

Hello? Is there anyone else from the Bureau of Balance here?

[Some of that sentence might sound a bit odd, almost as if you passed through a tunnel or something. Unless you've been inoculated.]

B. When in Mirabar...

[When in Rome, do as the Romans, right? Or Faerunians? as the case may be. Roxas doesn't end up winning but he comes close a few times, and it's a nice bit of practice against opponents who aren't monsters. He had an odd combination of fighting, sword in one hand and keyblade in the other.

Of course now that the fight's over, he's recovering. And it hurts.]

Uh...don't suppose you know where there's potions? Or a Cleric?


C. Row Row Row Your Boat?

[This. This is a problem.

Roxas doesn't have a lot of experience with boats but it was easy enough to get one out onto the water to watch the lanterns. He'd even set one out himself.

Getting back though. That's an issue.]

We...we just gotta row back to shore right?

[moneytwin]

The who the what now, dear?

[ Vex is sure he must have been mentioning a place, but the half-elf couldn't make out the language used; he looks human, and while armed, he doesn't look like trouble -- but looks can be deceiving. ]

New arrival, are we?

Fjord | Critical Role | 4th wall, ota!

[balleater]

arrival
Congrats Faerun, you are now in possession of one tall, green, tuskless half-orc with a comically thick Texan accent. Fjord's first thought is that this is a dream. His second thought is that no, there's a lot more land than his usual dreams. But maybe he's being fucked with anyway?

Fjord's hanging out near the kayak race. He's keeping a calm and interested look on his face though anyone observant enough can spot that he's taking in the surroundings as much as possible. Weird carnival, okay he can work with that, no current man-eating fiends or anything like that. But there's one thing he wants to check before he completely lets his guard down.

"Eldritch Blast," Fjord mutters, as he wiggles his fingers at a nearby tree and casts...well, casts Eldritch Blast. A bolt of arcane energy shoots from his fingers to the tree, hitting a tree branch. Fjord looks relieve as the energy hits but swaps straight to worried as the magic causes the branch to snap, falling close enough to a passerby that for a moment, the half-orc's worried he totally hit someone.

"Shit! You okay over there?"

test of strength
Fjord has spotted some carnival games. And almost instantly, he beelines right for the test of strength ones. Throw a ball hard enough to knock down some milk bottles? Today is his lucky day, he's going to kick this game's ass.

And so, he steps up to the metaphorical plate, cocky grin on his face, pulls his arm back, throws the ball...and watches in horror as the ball just bounces right off the milk bottles. Were carnival games cursed or something? This shit shouldn't keep happening to him!

"The first throw's always the worst," he says to whoever's around, obviously trying to cover his failings as Fjord tosses the second ball from hand to hand. "Watch and learn. This second one's gonna go great."

fireworks
Fjord knows boats. If there's one thing he knows really well, it's boats. So of course he's taking charge of one of the boats in an attempt to row out and watch the fireworks show from the river. He's lost his mask somewhere, left inside a few minutes after Fjord realized that once again, he's going to stick out, there's no use for the damn thing. But he's keeping busy by untying a boat, grabbing the oars, and doing all the prepwork to make certain that this boat is safe and can hold him and someone else aloft.

Hearing footsteps approach, he calls out, not looking up from the boat as he continues to work. "Care t'join me? Apparently, the fireworks look best out on the river."

wildcard
[ hit me up with a wildcard! For the canon-familiar, Fjord's canonpoint is somewhere midway through the current story arc (aka I don't have a specific episode in mind), but I'm keeping things spoiler free ]

arrival, btw nott is from BEFORE the current arc so she does. not know fjord knows!!! AAA

[flask]

Veth, for her part, hasn't quite noticed the bright green half-orc yet. For one thing, orcish-blooded folks, while not incredibly common, are absolutely a thing here where they weren't in the Circle, and she's comfortable enough to not look too closely at anyone tinted green standing above 4 feet.

However, after the distinctive call of Eldritch Blast, accompanying a small explosion in the tree above her, a branch toppling down as she dodges out of the way—

"SERIOUSLY, FJORD!?" is the cry that comes out of her without even thinking.

And then she remembers she's Veth right now and she freezes in place, staring at him with wide eyes.

Whoops?

Jaune Arc | RWBY | 4th wall ota

[sociallyarcward]

I. Lost
[He had trekked across most of the continent getting to Mistral and he was fairly certain he’d never felt so lost. The current situation, however, was starting to give that a run for its money. This wasn’t Argus and it sure wasn’t Atlas. Which really just begged the question of where he was and, more importantly honestly, how had he even gotten here?

Jaune stops walking and looks up at the banner that was being tied up across a building’s front.]

The Night of Wonders? Some kind of festival?

[That certainly left an odd feeling in the pit of his stomach, but he ignores it and goes back to trying to figure out where he is. He’s still kind of watching the sign though and doesn’t notice you until he nearly trips over himself to move around you.]

Woah! What?! S-sorry. My bad. I’m just a little lost…

II. Tournament
[It had taken a lot to convince Jaune to involve himself in another tournament, but how could he say no to a fighting tournament...especially when your good friend was so dang convincing with her big, puppy eyes.

a. Pre-fight, Jaune can be found sitting on a bench looking a little queasy, his leg bouncing restlessly as he waits for his name to be called as the next fighter. Maybe try to give him a pep talk to soth his nerves?

b. Fighting him you should probably note he’s decked in white and gold armor. Jaune isn’t quite aware of his old abilities being gone or that they’ve been replaced with the abilities of a Paladin. In the middle of a fight seems like a good time for that, right?

c. Post-fight, Jaune pulls the towel down from his face and looks up. He’s smiling, despite everything and says: That wasn’t too bad, right?]

III. Party
[Jaune hangs along the outskirts of the party for most of it. He tries to look happy, but anyone with two cells to rub together can tell he’s not exactly having a good time. The gold and white mask he wears does a lot to hide that, but not much. Maybe ask him to (a) dance? It couldn’t hurt. Or, hey, (b) food always helps some people, right?

(c) But eventually Jaune makes his way outside to get some air. He leans against the railing, pushing the mask up to rest on his forehead. He looks up at the sky, thinking of the one person he wish could really be here. There’s a high pitched whistling sound and the first firework bursts overhead, red and gold lights twinkling overhead. The explosion makes it hard to hear what he whispers to himself. He watches as more lights join the first and he wipes at his face. So much for a fun festival, huh?]

IV. Wildcard
[Sorry he's a downer. He's got some issues from the last time there was a festival like this. Jaune is from Volume 6 and while he's here he's actually a Half-Elf Paladin. I'm up for other interactions and just PM the journal if you want to plot something.]

I

[clickclickbloom]

[Ruby isn't really paying much attention to where she's going either. A whole lot of new people showed up out of the blue and she's got a sudden interest in any weapons they happen to be carrying.

...Which is why she literally walks face first into Jaune's chest.]

Ow-ow-ow! No! no! I'm Sorry I wasn-

[There's a pause as she realizes just who she ran into.]

Wait-Jaune!? What the heck happened to your ears!?

Agent North Dakota | Red vs Blue | OTA

[brodakota]

[ooc: North in this world is a half-elf ranger/paladin. He looks relatively the same but his ears are pointed and his features generally more delicate. His hair is also a bit longer.]

A is for Archery

[North is absolutely giving the archery contest a shot (haha). His newfound Ranger abilities have given him an appreciation for it and, well, practice makes perfect. He's got a little gold, so he might be using a chunk of it trying to get a bullseye. Trying being the operative word in that sentence but at least he's hitting the target.]

I'm telling you, next one's getting me the rabbit.

K is for Kayaks

So, you ever done this before?

[Because North has not and he is in. It just, looks like fun and he's kind of eager to try everything in this place. It's been fun, being an adventurer and why wouldn't you have fun at a festival? He's got an oar in hand and he's grinning. Totally a good sign right?]

F is for Food Fight

[How long has it been since he's eaten festival food? Far too long in North's mind and he might as well take advantage of some friend dough on a stick if nothing else. But the Turkey legs are just as good as are these meat pies. It's unfortunate that his focus on the leg means he's not sure where he's going.

Which results in a trip.

Which results in his meat pie going into someone else's face. Your face perhaps?

North is of course extremely apologetic but that's not enough to quell the anger and soon the pies are flying. Do you grab a turkey leg to defend yourself? Or are you hoping to use that popcorn as some caltrops?]

L is for Lanterns

[Having already spent some time in the kayaks, North is content with staying on the beach for the time being. But he does have a lantern with him, and is thoughtful as he thinks of a wish.

He's been lucky enough to be brought into the Circle, he things. He hasn't reflected on it much, but that is an advantage. He's still not sure what they're doing, or who Astoria really is, and the bigger picture of it all. He knows people are distrustful and he doesn't blame them. But he's alive. Alive and able to do things and make friends and be with people. People like York, who he wouldn't get to otherwise. He'll take it, if nothing else.

He writes a simple wish on the lantern. That he keeps getting to do this, and to have the strength to protect people as he does. And then a candle is lit, and the lantern is set on its way.

North watches it go.]

Sure is a nice night, huh?

A

[moneytwin]

Are we sure it's a rabbit? [a serious question, from behind North] Its nose just doesn't quite fit the picture, if you ask me.

[ The ranger-turned-gunsmith may or may not have been watching for a while, by the by. ]

Lucy Carlyle | Lockwood & Co | 4th wall ota

[andco]

THE DUSTY COFFER

[A young girl in a short cloak is wading her way through the crowded tavern with a singularly determined expression on her face. She's only slightly soaking wet - well, no, she's dripping actually -, and only completely in the worst mood of her entire life, but at least she has one thing going for her. She climbs up to the bar, squeezing herself between two strangers, and slaps down a piece of parchment with lovely looping calligraphy: WINNER! THE HOLDER OF THIS CARD IS ENTITLED TO ENDLESS DRINKS AT THE DUSTY COFFER!]

Excuse m-- [Aaaand there goes the barman in the opposite direction as if she wasn't there at all. Soaked to the skin, squelching in her boots, Lucy scoffs. Loudly.] The nerve!

MAKE A WISH

[The easy part had been jumping into a boat crowded with a half dozen other people celebrating festival with lanterns to send floating off into the black night sky. The hard part?

Well, she's looking at it. She has one of the paper lanterns balanced on her knees, it's tag folded over the top so she can stare at it. The tag, visible in the moonlight, is awfully blank. Apparently she hasn't done much with the little chip of charcoal in her hand.

What on earth - or, you know, wherever - is she meant to write?]

THE MASQUERADE

[CRUNCH.

She manages to look a little mortified behind the plain gray mask. After a moment's grim silence spent in the middle of the dance floor--:]

That wasn't your foot by any chance, was it?

The Dusty Coffer

[akiougaq]

[Ukiuvak was lingering in the bar, trying to determine what human drinks and food could be consumed safely, when Lucy is so rudely brushed off by the bartender. His masked head tilts thoughtfully. On the one hand, he has no desire to attract the ire of humans, whose violence as a species is legendary. On the other, she reminds him of his younger sisters, in a way, and that makes the decision for him. He takes off his cloak, long and black and built to withstand the cold nights of the Arctic, and fastens it around her shoulders.]

Here. Do not worry; I will try to flag him down on your behalf. Are you alright?

[If they were in his homeland, being soaked in such a manner would lead to immediate illness or death. This warmer climate may be kinder to her, however, and despite the voice screaming in the back of his head that this is how his brother got himself killed, he finds his disdain for humans is weak when the human is so young and vulnerable.]

Ruby Rose | RWBY | She's a Sorcerer for this Event.

[clickclickbloom]

[Tournament Battle]

[Ruby Rose. Huntress-in-Training, Silver Eyed Warrior and Devourer of Cookies has stepped into the ring. This world hop has changed her fighting style to something she's not particularly used to but that's not going to stop her from giving it her all.

She readies the staff that has replaced her a lovely Crescent Rose, a long shaft of dark wood with a red rose shaped gem at the top of it, then stares down her next opponent with a confident but friendly smirk.]

Hey! Don't go easy on me over the next couple minutes, alright?

[Who dares challenge this terrifying foe?]

[After Tournament Party.]

[Ruby has emerged Queen Victorious of the tournament! She is proudly wearing her championship belt and has invited everyone back to the Dusty Coffer for food and drinks. She's standing atop a table in the middle of the bar, staff in one hand and a glass of milk in the other. Regaling everyone in over the top renditions of how each of her matches went.]

Then I blocked his blade with my staff like -Woah-!

[She spun her staff between her fingers and then held it out in a block.]

Then I charged up a shocking grasp went all zap-crackle-pop right in face! Knocking the seven foot tall, white haired demon assassin down to the ground!

[She thrusts her hand holding the glass of milk to demonstrate which then proceeds to spill all over the table and anyone nearby.]

Uhm-oh-Sorry!

[Ceremony of Lights]

[After what the lanterns represented Ruby couldn't help but grab one. It was a wonderful way to let your dreams and wishes literally take flight. The mood of this event reminded her of when she first arrived in the circle and of one person in particular who she knew had been struggling to find their way again.

Once she had her wish jotted down she clutched the tag tightly in one hand. Clearly if she held it tight that was show this was really important to her, right?]

[Paper Faces on Parade.]

[...And somehow Ruby managed to get dragged out to the one place that she didn't want to make an appearance at this festival. The dumb lousy no good masquerade dance. She had a cute black dress with numerous red rose patterns sewn into it with a matching mask. But she wasn't allowed to bring her cape or her championship belt so she's a little miserable, instead she's waddling around like a duck in her heels awkwardly trying to find a place to hide. ...Or at least some food to eat.]

[Wildcard]

[OOC: Feel free to hit me up with any other ideas.]

After Tourney Party

[moneytwin]

You know, if you keep throwing things my way, I might start to get the idea you don't like me very much.

[ The tone is dry, but too amused to be angry; besides, Vex sidestepped the milk shower easily, escaping its reach unscathed, and Trinket is there to start lapping up the mess. See? Clean up crew has arrived! ]

Congratulations, by the way.

ROCKET | MCU | 4TH WALL CHARACTER | HUMAN GUNSLINGER

[beatupgrass]

i. good morning, starshine

[Rocket wakes up with a pounding headache, a little chilly, and lacking the old familiar aches that come from being too cold and having cybernetics. The last thing he remembers is Thanos snapping his fingers and so many people just vanishing inexplicably into ash. And Groot... God, Groot. That shouldn't happened. Not again.

Some weirdly hopeful part of him hopes it was a dream and he jolts awake. Instantly, he's aware of two things- this room isn't familiar and his view is... disorienting to say the least. He puts his hand over his face to rub at his eyes and muzzle and figures out quickly why he's disoriented.

Your festival morning is now interrupted by panicked screaming and five feet worth of bearded human gunslinger slamming his way out of his room.] What the hell?!


ii. you'll shoot your eye out

[Okay. Okay, this is fine.

No, it's not fine- it's the opposite of fine, but Rocket has no idea how to make it fine, and the best he can do is just try to keep moving forwards and hope for the best. Being human has only one advantage- height, and even then he's shorter than the average human. Not being gawked at is its own advantage, but he'd rather be gawked at than stuck in this hairless godforsaken human body.

As a cybernetic abomination, he's surprisingly adept at drinking. As a human, he is not, which means all that self-medicating he's doing with the mead to keep from snapping and shooting everyone? Yeah, it's starting to show. He's leaning against one of the booths, observing a game, and as someone steps up, he drunkenly slurs:] Y'know, dude, you might as well just hand the money over to me. It'll do you about as much good as given it to that guy. His shit's rigged.


iii. and at last i see the light

[Rocket isn't a sentimental person- no, he definitely is. He just doesn't want you to think he is. The second he hears people talking about this part of the festival, he meanders down towards it, figuring he'll just take a peek and then saunter off and away, but he gets caught up in the moment and before he can really process it, he's got a lantern and scribbling a note on it with unusual intensity. There's only one thing he wants and that need is so near and so close, of course he'd try anything once if it might give him some hope.

Of course, if you catch him in the act, he'll try to cover it up.] What? That's not mine. I was reading what somebody else wrote.

[Maybe his manky hobo beard can hide the fact that he might have been tearing up a bit. YOU SEE NO FEELINGS HERE.]


iv. paper faces on parade

[Rocket wears a plain black mask to the ball and is only here for the free food. That ends up being his downfall, because the food is here to turn even the worst grump into... well, maybe not a social butterfly, but at least someone who is trying to have a good time.

Unfortunately, Rocket's idea of a good time is... a little more eccentric than most people's. He's figured out roughly how to apply his own more complicated engineering know-how to his stores of black powder which means those fireworks are awfully tempting.

He's got a plan, you see? And as the fireworks explode in the sky, they illuminate one very delighted short mountain man-looking gunslinger with a strangely American accent.] Hey, hey. C'mere. You wanna help me with something? Yeah, yeah. I can see it. You definitely want in on this.

[There's Rocket drunk and then there's Rocket drunk on food spiked to put him in a good mood. Both are dangerous.]

iv

[flask]

[Veth is entranced with the fireworks, partly because she is also heavily intoxicated. As usual. In fact, she seems to be drinking from a flask again, a find in Mirabar that she's been using to just... fill full of whatever she can find that is remotely alcoholic.

She is, however, more dressed for the occasion than the gunslinger. She's wearing a dress that isn't what anyone would call a gown, and her jewelry is... pretty unconventional, but her hair is done into a braided updo, and her mask is appropriately feathered and (cheaply) jeweled.

And, despite this tall stranger suddenly stumbling up to her and inviting her in a totally not creepy and alarming way, her eyes light up slightly.

She's been in a good mood.]

I do? What is it? I'm very good at finding traps. The best in the biz. Is that relevant? Maybe not.

Daylight vis Lornlit. | Original Character. | 4th Wall, Acatalespy CRAU

[sunborne]

i;; walking fast, faces pass.

[ huh.

he didn't think he'll be here again.

daylight - now in the appearance of his avaform, flesh and blood and he doesn't think this will ever get old. - is staring around him in shock and awe as he takes in the sights. looks like he and meddy are just in time for a neat-looking festival and-

whoops! looks like he bumped into someone. ]

Oh- Hey! Sorry about that. [ he pulls back while holding the person's arms to help steady them, his expression sheepish and apologetic for the hitting. his bad!

he new begins to crane his neck down juuuust a bit due to him being six feet, four inches tall. better than him being ten feet, he supposes, and... oh... wait a minute- ] Huh. Sorry if this is, like, awkward and all but...

Have we met before? You seem familiar.

ii;; a spoonful of sugar.

[ guess who's going nuts with the food? that's right- daylight is going nuts with the food.

after spending centuries being careful of eating certain types of food due to his delicate systems, being able to eat this stuff without a care in the world is a an exciting prospect for day. so he's more or less loaded his arms up with all the snacks he could pay or charm out of folks - popcorn and sweets, meat pies and turkey legs, candies and an occasional drink.

and he's making sure to enjoy every bite. ]

Oh man- Oh wow- [ he takes another big chomp off of the cotton candy he's currently devouring. then he's making loud appreciate noise for how the sugary sweet candy floss melts in his mouth. if he still had his winglets, they would be fluttering in joy right now. ] -This is amazing!

[ meddy on his shoulder hoots their disapproval and is very loud in doing so. he shushes them to the best of his ability but he can feel their judging look on his face. please let him have fun, meddy. this stuff is amazing and is so good he feels like he needs to both share and prove apoint.

so, without warning, daylight sticks out his arm that's holding the stick of half-eaten cotton candy out for the nearest passerby who isn't milling about. ] Want some? You've got to try some and let me know what you think so Meddy here stops being such a killjoy!

[ hoot hoot!, goes the apparent meddy, the northern saw-whet looking deeply unimpressed by the turn of events. ]

iii;; i can see the lights.

[ this reminds him a lot of auntie jing's ceremony.

daylight is surprisingly quiet and contemplative as he writes down his wish. he says no words and makes no jokes. even the owl on his shoulder is somber and still, their head craned away as if respecting his desire to keep this a secret. daylight is taking extra care to make sure every letter is neat, every word is clear. he goes as far to doodle some things on the corners to decorate it, wanting to make sure the wish became true or, at least, was seriously considered.

but he ends up getting distracted by something. is it an argument nearby? a loud noise? whatever it is, it causes him to look up from his writing and loosen his grip on the paper. just as a gust of wind comes and rips it right out of his hands. ]

Wait-! Come back! [ daylight runs after it, of course, and he quickly curses under his breath as his slip of paper continues to tumble in the wind, flying further and further away. ] No! Get back here right now!

[ there's someone ahead of him...! he feels like an ass but he's going to have to raise his voice a bit to get their attention: ] Sorry! Hey! Hey ! Person up ahead- Catch that paper...!

iv;;; wildcard!!

[ want to do something else? feel free to do it here! also, you’re welcome to hit me up/plot with me via my plurk prognostic if there’s something specific you want.

for reference's sake for the fourth wall event - daylight is a human bard, with his medroid, meddy, now being a very cranky owl. ]

iii

[theseuschip]

[ yeah man that first day of TIME TO EAT UNTIL I DIE sure is/was something. good shit GOOD shit.

anyway ]

What-?

[ oh. The wayward wish gets a bit of distance between the time Simon hears the stranger and when he processes his request and actually sees the thing. But he gets a few strides and he’s still within range for the floating, disembodied spectral hand that materializes to catch it.

He turns to the guy and the hand drifts back obligingly to offer him his lost piece of paper. ]

percy goodtimes (human ranger/beastmaster) — critrole.

[decisions]

Slings and arrows.
( CLOSED TO V )

[ there's no harm in entering a tournament to flex some strange and new muscles given to him by astoria and this world that's ever so familiar. well. okay there's a bit of harm, but it's a bit late to consider that now as he steps into the ring that's clearly been battered and bruised by magic and brute force. percy's seen vex'ahlia fight many a time, but to do it himself seems... so incredibly foreign. still, his fingers have some sort of strange muscle memory as he draws fenthras from his back. the bow feels weighty, loved, like a precious treasure in his palm, adorned with winding branches and vines. the protector. the wrath of the fey warden.

well then. it's no bad news, but it feels like it will certainly do. as he moves forward to meet his opponent in the middle, a flurry of white zips forward, great wings and spotted feathers as talons touch down to rest on his pauldron. cordelia is just as ready as ever, her eyes sharp as she gives a cry of excitement.

time to fly. ]

Shall we?

[ all in good fun, right? :) ]

Is there a cleric in the house?
( OPEN )

[ after the fight, percy is looking pleased, but rough. the outcome doesn't matter. the thrill of the fight is enough to keep him smiling even as he might be nursing a few scratches, aches and pains. still, he could probably use a healer.

in his lap, a white bundle of feathers is preening herself, feathers out of place, her beak a black point in the tuft of white. he strokes her softly with a gentle murmur of "atta girl," fondness in his voice. if he sees someone who happens to look like a cleric of some kind, he holds up a hand. ]

I've got coin for you if you've got some bandages and magic to spare, [ he offers, rubbing a bit of silver together. ]

Paper faces on parade.
( OPEN | OUTFIT + MASK )

[ courtly dances have, unfortunately, been pressed quite deeply into percy's skull. thankfully, the food and drink seem to have loosed that from him enough that whatever folk dancing seems to be taking place here becomes easy to follow. it's light and pleasant, a skip and a step, partners passing fast as pages in a book where you've locked eyes with someone one moment and are spun the next to be met by someone else. he half loses himself in the celebration of it all, taking up the next hand that meets his and giving his partner a bit of a spin.

when he follows up with a bow, there's a grin spread over his mouth, visible just beneath his mask as he sweeps the person off into dance. ]

You know, I don't believe I've had this much fun at a party in quite some time.

[ and if you're somehow still brooding about dancing — ]

Lighten up, now. A single dance hasn't killed anyone before, and it certainly won't start with you.

[ it's the wine. a tipsy percy is a devil-may-care percy. ]

Just one dance.
( CLOSED TO VEX'AHLIA )

[ of course, as the music begins to slow down to something far more... cozy, percy seeks out vex'ahlia. they've danced together between changing partners, passed hands and pleased little glances and smiles, kisses and brushes of fingertips over arm and back. but now as he pushes through the crowd, he seeks to meet her somewhere in the middle, grand mistress, baroness, lady wife. her back turned to him, he sweeps up behind her and places his hands carefully on her hips. his fingers curl, the perfect perch there as he leans in and presses a kiss to the sensitive edge of her ear. ]

May I have the privilege of this dance with you alone, my fair Lady?

♥

[moneytwin]

[ The festival has truly been a delight, a much needed break for the Circle after the last few worlds they've been through.

Vex has indulged herself often tonight, be it with dancing, food, friends and a few drinks along the way. At the moment, however, she is without any of these things, standing alone and swaying to the music, sighing as the beat changes to something less exuberant than previous hours.

The entire night, she has crossed paths and then parted again with Percy, teasing touches part of their agreed understanding during the masquerade portion of affairs. She'd know him anywhere, whatever face or dress he wore, and the sudden arrival of the 'stranger' behind her earns a theatrical gasp - all part of the game, of course. His hands settle at her waist, and she leans back into him, lips curving upwards as she feels the press of lips against the shell of her ear. ]

Why, my Lord! [her tongue traces her top lip a moment, before offering him a smile] I'd be honoured.

[she lifts her hand expectantly. Lead the way, darling?]

ray palmer | 4th wall visitor

[sprouts]

i. just a little guy in a big world--

"Excuse me, could you just--"
"Little guy coming through! 'Scuse me, pardon me, thank you!"
"Sorry, I was just trying to--"
"--oww! Hey, watch out up there! You know not everyone's a six-foot willowy elf, you know!"

He's been repeating variations on these exclamations ever since he woke up here in a body half the size he normally occupies as he tries to make his way through the bustling crowds to explore. The little gnome is dark-haired, with a curly mustache he can't seem to keep his own hands off of, and a chipper disposition that rivals even that of a typical gnome.

When he bumps into strangers (are you one of those strangers?) he's likely to apologize first, excepting cases in which his little foot gets stomped on or he's knocked onto his rear. He's used to scooting out of smaller folks' ways, not having to rely on other folks noticing his size and accommodating for him. So, he gets it, but the later in the day he has an interaction like this, the more exhausted he is about it all.

ii. genre savvy

All of the contents of Ray's backpack are spilled out on the table in front of him, and he's sorting through them with a manic intensity of someone hurrying through someone else's belongings in search of something specific.

"Daggers and a sling, that's points to thief. A book of rituals and staff, though..." he trails off for just a moment before inhaling a sharp breath and jumping up directly onto the table with a happy shout.

"I'm a mage!" With that, his little arms extend joyously away from him, fingers splaying as a shower of red and blue sparks emit from him. Then, as any good gnome should, he proceeds to dance on the table, shooting sparks and making quite a scene. Hopefully, the establishment's owner will let him collect his things before throwing him bodily out?

iii. event catch-all: games, boats, etc!

He struggles with most of the games, and the jousting, and watches the row boat preparation from afar. Rather than the hesitance of someone out of their element, he's filled with curiosity. Once Ray realizes that his new stature affords him the ability to slip through the spaces most folks can't, he learns how to get a close look at the festivities.

He wants to participate, but he's not sure he's got enough command over his new body, being used to crossing a room in a few strides. Already a too touchy-feely fellow, he at least has no qualms about yanking on someone's sleeve before asking who they think might win, or if they've played before.

Pretty much if nothing above appeals, he's very likely to just cheerfully bother you...

( ooc | feel free to wildcard some other starter, or PM me to arrange something together! if genre savvy scoots too close to 4th wall breaking for your tastes, lmk and i'll pull it way back ♥ )

ii.

[moneytwin]

So we can see.

[ Having ducked into the Dusty Coffer to escape the growing crowds for the upcoming festivities, Vex had been watching the gnome since his arrival from behind her pint glass. It's only when he starts sparking on the table that she has to object. Really now! Someone needs a little less alcohol, apparently! ]

Oi! Do mind where you're pointing those fingers. You could hurt someone.

Vex'ahlia - half-elf gunslinger (+ bear) / critical role - OTA!

[moneytwin]

♦ Before The Night Begins ♦
[ To say Vex'ahlia is excited for a festival would be an understatement. The nonsense thrown by the unseen servants at the Temple of Beginnings simply isn't the same as this, a homegrown event with many races mingling and celebrating together.

That she has a purse full of coin to spend, or at least wager with, doesn't hurt either.

If there is to be a party, however, then one must look the part, and Vex'ahlia will be happy to lend an eye for local fashion, as well as help haggle down any already-discounted prices for those in need!


♠ It's All Fun And Games Until... ♠
[ More carnival games, some for children, some for adults, and some for adults who like horsing around like children - literally, it would seem! Vex herself can be spotted tossing a few balls at those unshakeable bottles, as well as helping a few kids improve their aim.

She can also be seen milling about the stands, watching the various tournaments - and if she happens to be cheering a little more enthusiastically for a white-haired gentleman ranger and his snowy owl companion, you better believe she'll happily admit to no small bias there.

There is also an armored adult brown bear following where ever she goes. Got a treat for him? No? Got a snack you're not keeping a close eye on? Hope you weren't planning to eat that, because it's definitely gone now he's around..

Most of the locals seem to be cautious around him, but he's a familiar enough sight that no one's running screaming when they see him; children appear to have lost all fear, in fact, petting him, putting flowers on his head, and asking permission to ride on his back as Vex goes through town. ]


♥ Parades and Lantern Lights ♥
[ When the call comes out for the ceremony of lights to begin, Vex is happy to find a dockside perch to watch things unfold. You might catch her writing something on one of the lantern tags, before passing it to one of the locals heading out on a boat. She harbours no fear of the water, mind you, she just doesn't see a point in setting sail herself.

It is the night's main event that she's waiting for. With mask adorned and dressed to the nines (at least as well as one can be here in Mirabar), Vex is ready to enjoy the night's festivities. She's certainly happy to join hands and dance, regardless of the skill level of her partner -- whether they want to or not.

She'll likely have vanished by the time the fireworks begin, disappearing in the company of a masked white-haired man, but until then, drink and be merry with her! ]


♣ Wild Party Card! ♣
[ Set your own starter, I'm happy to roll with you! c: ]

Before aka Pre-Gaming

[rougerebelle]

[As soon as Carmen catches wind that there is a festival and a party to dress for, she is up early to start shopping for it. She had already thought of shopping anyway. Earning the coin she had doing odd jobs and knowing that back at the Temple her only wardrobe consisted of her jumpsuit, red coat, and fedora. She needed a change of clothes there and here.

She catches sight of a familiar face almost as soon as she enters the market area and calls out.]

Hey! Are you out to shop for clothes as well? I'd love a partner if you don't mind the company.

vax'ildan | critical role | 4th wall visitor

[hraefnes]

THE FESTIVAL

[ it has honestly been ages since vax has been to something like this. mostly because of keyleth's schedule, sure. because as it turns out, becoming someone as important as she is takes a lot of time and a lot of travel. he doesn't complain, he's enjoyed the chance to see the world with her, but in walking down the street and seeing the stalls, the bit of nastolgia is welcome. nice. maybe they should take some more time to just relax. maybe this is his chance. and while there's a bit of that underlying anxiety about needing to find...any of the others of his family, and while he is still actively looking for anyone familiar aroud, that won't stop him from trying a bit of the food. that very wealthy-looking commoner won't need a few gold, and whatever they're selling in that booth? smells amazing.

additionally, you might find vax at one of the many gaming booths. really, any of them. but he will be spending some particular time around the knife throwing booth. which, all things considered, isn't really fair - but he's there anyway, a grin on his face, waiting for any unsuspecting victim to walk right up and try their hand. because as soon as they do, he will step in right next to you. ]

A competition is always more fun, don't you think? Two gold on whoever gets the most of these to stick? [ are you a better kind of person? does the fact as soon as he asks this question he flips the blade - a bit expertly - in his hand dissuade you at all? it's all in good fun. ] C'mon, I'll pay for your turn.

CEREMONY OF LIGHTS

[ it had been his own curiosity that brought him down to the river's edge to see what the fuss was about. the crowd seems to sweep him up, his dark clothes camouflaging him well in the darkness of the night. it isn't until the lanterns start to get lit that he turns to the person next to him, curious but mesmerized, as he watches the small flickers start up in every direction around him. ] What is all this?

[ and when he does get an answer, he'll laugh a bit to himself, watching the lanterns rise into the air. he'll watch for a bit before he finally does relent to his own curiosity, walking around until he find someone who seems to be handing out the materials for the lanterns. he'll get enough of what he needs to find a spot to settle, thinking on what it is he wants send with the light. he'll be quiet, around this time, his eyes a bit far away as he thinks. he fits pretty well into the solemn air that seems to be threaded throughout the crowd, but eventually he will not, lighting the lantern to send up. what harm could a quick wish do?]

WILDCARD

[ come at me with anything at all! my plurk is disarmingly and i am always down to plot, run into peeps, roll with the punches. c: ]

[ knife emoji ]

[decisions]

What do you take me for, a moron?

[ maybe you don't recognize him because cordelia is perched quite fluffily on his shoulder pauldron, hiding his face. ]

Do you think I was born yesterday?

[ but boy, that poncy voice can only belong to one fucking person, and as percy turns, he eyes vax up and down with a faint smile somewhere between the haughty look in his eyes. he's garbed differently than usual, his armor and great coat abandoned for lighter armor and a tunic of blues, golds, and whites. the owl on his shoulder is a new companion, who peers at vax curiously from her perch. ]

I'll buy you a drink. Losing to you isn't worth two gold and your insufferable bragging.

MOLLYMAUK TEALEAF | CRITICAL ROLE | TIEFLING BLOOD HUNTER | OTA

[mollymocked]

i. good morning, mirabar

[It's been a fair bit of time since Harvest's Close and a little less but still long enough since Hupperdook, and Molly didn't even realize he was missing it until the sounds of people greeting the day early so as to get more festivities in greet his ears as he comes down the stairs at the inn. He eats his breakfast at a reasonable pace but the second he sees someone he's come to realize is from the Temple start to leave, he pushes back his chair with a loud scraping of wood on stone and bounds after them.]

Oi! Don't you dare try to have fun without me. You need a guide, friend.


ii. food, glorious food

[Of course, Molly's gold is being spent on food and drink. The vendors are all practically his friends now as he makes his circuit around the festival to laugh at the poor sods failing to take home the prizes in some of the more tricky games- especially when they're haughty about winning- buying snacks and tipping well all the while.

The turkey legs prove to be the most delicious (and challenging) food offering. He's never really had the opportunity to eat one before now. Admittedly, watching a tiefling with sharp canines gnaw on a turkey leg with very little consideration for decorum is... something, all right. If he catches someone's eye whether because they're gawking or because he just happened to look up at the right moment, he beams and speaks with a mouth half full.] You gotta try one of these.

[He may be trolling, but they really are tasty.]


iii. friendly competition

[Well, Team Tiefling may not have won the kayak race, but Molly didn't really expect to, considering it's not really his shtick- he's not strong enough for it. However, it was delightful. He staggers out of the water having probably fallen in at some point, blows a kiss to Inej for her victory, and shakes water out of his hair.] Losers' drinks are on me! We can celebrate not bloody drowning. And anyone who bet on us... Well, sorry about your luck, then.


iv. masquerade

[Of course Molly is here to party. He was denied crashing a fancy dress party in Zadash, but now he's practically a celebrated guest at this one. Of course he's all in on this. He deigned to dress conservatively, though still garishly with a plain pink mask because it's nearly impossible for him to hide his identity, and he's throwing himself into the dancing and drinking and merriment like he's in his element.

Which he is.

If he sees anyone he knows, he's liable to break away from the dancing and demand a dance from them alone, but for the most part he's happy to be tossed from partner to partner, drinking in the delightful chaos.]

v. WILDCARD

[ANYTHING ELSE?? I'm good for anything.]

iv

[rougerebelle]

[The Tabaxi woman in a red mask and matching dress looks up from her nearly empty glass of champagne.]

A dance?

[She smiles and then finishes the drink. No sense leaving it unfinished after all. She slides from the stool and takes an offered hand. Either she hasn't had much to drink or she's just grace incarnate. She glides forward without a hint of a stumble.]

I'd be happy to join you.

Carmen Sandiego | see name | ota (tabaxi/rogue)

[rougerebelle]

I. Shopping
[Now that she’s got more than a little gold to spend, Carmen doesn’t stop by the festival booths or the stalls that have begun to spring up. She’s heard rumors of a masquerade and she’s not about to go to a fancy event in anything but the best outfit she can find. It was kind of a shame she lacked her normal wardrobe, but now seemed like a good time to invest in some new clothes anyway. Her proportions were a little changed, now that she was tabaxi, but not enough that she should have to worry too much about alterations if she bought the right kind of material.

Carmen steps out with one of the dresses she had found in her signature red. She looks around and spots you. Whether she invited you initially or maybe you just happen to be there, she asks.]

How does this look? I’m not sure what level of formality we should be aiming for here…

II. Archery
[While not trained much in shooting with a bow and arrow, she had used one a few times. Really, it was more about her aim and strength and in that regard she wasn’t lacking at all. Carmen released the bow string and let the arrow fly towards her target. It wasn’t quite a bullseye, but still rather impressive. She begins to notch another arrow and then notices you standing nearby.]

Hey. Interested in a little competition?

III. Witness
[Carmen had put some money down, but she was also interested in cheering for her friends who had decided to throw their hats in. She leaned against the railing, her tail idly swishing behind her and a bag of popcorn held casually in her hand. She pops a piece in her mouth and waves to you.]

There’s space here if you want a good view. Did you see who was competing?

IV. Masks
[Carmen’s dress is a beautiful red that compliments the black fur of her tabaxi form, the tail neatly hidden away beneath the fluffy skirt. The mask she chose plays with her cat appearance, shaped in a distinctly cat shape with black and gold accents around the edges of the red mask. She looks good and she clearly knows it. Carmen enjoys a good party and especially if she gets to dress up, something she’d never had much opportunity for prior to leaving VILE island.]

There are a few places you may encounter Carmen:
(a)She may invite you to share a dance with her, approaching you with a relaxed smile and a polite offering of her hand. If you accept be prepared to be wowed on the dance floor and this invitation is extended to men and women equally it seems.

(b)As the partners shift and change on the dance floor, Carmen suddenly appears grasping your hands. She smiles and twirls with practiced ease.

(c)She can also be found sitting at a table, sipping at a glass of champagne and enjoying the festivities. Carmen looks like she could use a good conversation and welcomes any to join her, she may even treat you to a drink.]

V. Fireworks
[You might wonder how someone can scale to the roof of a building in a ballgown without messing up their appearance. However, if anyone could do it, it was Carmen Sandiego. Her shoes rest beside her on the roof and she has her knees pulled up to her chest. She stares up at the sky and seems to be waiting for something. Sure enough there’s the far off sound of whistling and then BOOM. The fireworks shimmer and streak across the sky, watched by a woman on the rooftop.]

It’s beautiful, right?

VI. Wild
((If you have other ideas, let me know. I'm excited for any options.))

IV C/Maybe some A?

[clickclickbloom]

[Carmen may lucked out in getting Ruby dressed up and out to the ball, but she didn't seem incredibly interested in joining any of the festivities. There wasn't nearly enough monster fighting or video games going on to keep her interested. She also was most certainly not interested in walking around in heels. She did managed to stumble her way over to Carmen when she saw her friend taking a break a few tables away. She's got a handful of snacks tucked away for safe keeping.]

Sooooooooo. This is a party?

Waver Velvet | Fate/zero | Human sorcerer

[teratias]

Ceremony of Lights
[It's a concept Waver knows - the lanterns. Writing them down and then letting them out into the world. They're sometimes called Kongming Lanterns if he remembers correctly (and in another life, another version of himself, there's much more signifigance there.) There's a sentimentality to what these lanterns are for that he doesn't quite feel correct participating in, but he watches from the sides, curious to see if anyone he knows does participate.

And should anyone that looks like they're from the Circle does pass by, Waver gestures to a little group a few feet away that are helping others assemble lanterns.]

They've got some spares over there, if you're interested.

Paper Faces on Parade
[This is Very Much Not Waver's Thing. Social events in general are generally not his thing, but a grand event like this very much puts him in mind of a great many days of Clock Tower where he was far better off just hovering at the edge of everything.

He can stand near food and drink though, the extremely unexciting mask he acquired for himself (it's a fox's face, with little ears attached and all) resting on his forehead so that he can actually see what he's putting in his mouth.

He's also definitely figured out which foods are enchanted, and he's willing to let others know too.]

That one's got a spell on it.

Wildcard

[clickclickbloom]

[Ruby's hand is just about to touch that delicious looking dessert when she gets the warning from Waver. She gives a little pout then settles on some fruit a little further down the table.]

This'll have to do then, thanks.

[She steps over Waver's way and gives her head the slightest tilt as she looks him over curiously.]

You get dragged here too?

Ukiuvak Taksruk-Akiougaq | Original Character | 4th Wall OTA

[akiougaq]

1. Arrival

[A black-clad, tall figure, Ukiuvak stood out in the crowd. Holding himself very still, one hand on his sword's sheath as if he were perpetually torn between guarding it from a thief or taking it out to defend himself. Although his helmet kept his face from being visible - indeed, not an inch of skin was visible on him - his tension was obvious from how he held himself and the refusal, at first, to engage with the people around him.

Finally, he groaned audibly and buried his face in his hands.] This isn't a dream. This isn't - the spirits must hate me. I don't know what I did, but I did something wrong, clearly.

[A town full of nonstop, wall to wall humans. The very idea was enough to make him want to go home and never set foot outdoors again. Well, nothing to do but find a way back, preferably as soon as possible. Although nothing about his clothing or demeanor was particularly friendly, his voice, when he bowed politely to the nearest person who looked like they had some idea what was going on and spoke, was more tired than hostile.]

Pardon me, but do you know how I can get back to the High North from here? I am not from around here, and I do not wish to outstay my welcome.


2. Food

[Overall, he tended to lurk and watch the human festivities without engaging, and was pleased to find that humans were largely content to leave him alone unless he engaged with them. The problem, however, was that some interaction was absolutely required. Much like at home during the Festival of Imiqaa, there was a limit on how long he could manage to be in a crowd without interacting with others. Awkward and sheepish, a hilarious combination given he was 6"4, he gestured to the food with a headtilt of obvious confusion.]

I do not recognize most of this food. What is all of this, and what do the vendors want in exchange for it, since I assume my currency will not be worth much here?


3. Masks

[Making another when his default state of being was to wear one when on duty would seem a bit redundant. Still, his curiosity won out over his initial reluctance to go anywhere near these people, and he found himself looking at the efforts of the locals to prepare masks and walking through the human crowds with less tension. If they didn't realize he wasn't one of their own, though he was tall for one of them, he was in less danger than he might've normally been. And spirits help him, Ukiuvak was intrigued by the dancing. His mother was a traditional dance master, but he hadn't seen humans dance before, only his own people.

A long day without much food or rest led to bad decisions, and thus he found himself caught up in the dancing himself. He'd have excused himself right out of it he thought he could without drawing undue attention to himself. Surrounded by humans, though, he didn't dare. Anxiety mixed with genuine enjoyment, Ukiuvak drew a few eyes for his elegant and smooth movements, but enough people were still wearing masks that he didn't feel like he had to run for his life just yet.

Although with how much he hated slow dancing in any culture or form, he was reconsidering the merits of running when the tempo switched and he ended up standing before an equally unwilling or at least equally unintentional dance partner.]

...if you want to find another dance partner for this song, I will not hold that against you.

wanda ☇ open

[whatchoice]

you'll shoot your eye out ☇

[ you'd think she would have learned from the little festival at the temple, but now. wanda is out here still trying to play a dumb carnival game and succeed. all she succeeds in doing is collecting a small warren of stuffed bunnies which she gives out to the children in town.

hopefully they won't come alive like her floral bears did.

eventually she forgoes the carnival games and picks up the bow. time to see what clint has been able to teach her. shoulders down, exhale, release... another bunny gets set in front of her. ]

I'm fighting a losing battle here, aren't I?

the ceremony of lights ☇

[ she lingers with her lantern, little tag unwritten, sitting on the edge of the shore and watching the boats moving across the still water. she doesn't know what to wish for and not in part because she's an adult that doesn't really put much stock in wishes.

is she supposed to wish for herself? for the people of the town? is she allowed to use a lifeline and phone a friend? she looks up at a person nearby. ]

What did you wish for?

paper faces on parade ☇

[ wanda hasn't been the revelry type for a while now, but when in rome... her mask is a delicate red and black to match her muted red dress, and she is happy enough to hide behind the mask. it's the food that really got her to attend and she spends most of her time milling by the food and nibbling on all the different treats. there is such a variety, she can't help herself.

maybe she can be swayed to dance, but probably only by one of the children in town. give it a shot anyway. ]

wildcard ☇

( do yo thang. )

watch where you're pointing that!!

[moneytwin]

Yes, that's quite possible.

[ That was likely a rhetorical question, but Vex has been watching for a bit and. Yeah. Your form could use some work. ]

Try widening your stance a bit, and turn your elbow out. That'll keep your arm straight, less likely to catch on the drawstring.

Azazel | X-Men: First Class | 4th Wall OTA (Tiefling Sor4/Rog1)

[sinsofthe]

[He'd spent his first day and night hiding as best he could in the strange city. It was both harder than it should have been - harder because his power, his identity was gone, and something strange had replaced it that he was still figuring the ins and outs and limitations of; easier, because for the very first time in his life the looks people gave him were no more than curious. As the day wore on, he was astonished to see others like him - not exactly, no two of them have more than a superficial resemblance, but there is a word (tiefling) and an explanation (bloodlines) and it isn't just a mutation here.

Always one to be proud of what he is, by the second day Azazel is walking about in broad daylight, the confidence in his swagger only belied by the underlayer of disbelief that this is happening at all, that it isn't some fever dream created by one of the telepaths. Or, for that matter, that if it is at least he won't spend the entire time hiding from his own shadow. He's better than that. Has been, as long as he's been in the Brotherhood.

So he wanders the fair, often chewing idly on a turkey leg or proving his knife-throwing skills still exist in one of the carnival games, but most of all relishing being as invisible in the crowd as a red-skinned, tailed devil-man can get. And when night falls, he watches the paper lanterns with everyone else, musing over what kind of wish he'd want to have granted in this dream.]

((ooc: come at me! feel free to hit me up for anything! anarin if you have any questions ♥))

(Tiefling Sorcerer/Ranger)

[ecclesiophobic]

Kurt, to the contrary, had refused to hide. Though his powers had been replaced with something different yet somehow comfortable, whatever was behind it couldn't take his bones. He could still fight, and would if someone came for him.

No one did. They sneered, sometimes; cast an ill eye on him when he stood too closely or wandered into their shops. Felt like home, really. Seeing others like himself was more disconcerting; he'd always been unique among his peers for the form genetics had given him.

And now here he was, perched on a low wall while he watched a ln apparent devil in red skin show off his aim. "I'd expected those to be rigged."

n. solo | tmfu

[selection]

YOU'LL SHOOT YOUR EYE OUT.

[ the truth of the matter is this: napoleon solo is - worried. he's not afraid, mind, because nothing about this place seems particularly threatening, but he is worried. he'd been on a rooftop, sharing a drink with his new partners (and isn't that a kicker?) and now he's here, in a place that is unrecognisable and strange. he's no longer wearing his fourth favourite suit, but instead is dressed in leather and cotton. it's an interesting choice, to be sure, but that he doesn't remember choosing it is rather worrying.

so, the truth of the matter is that he's worried.

the truth of the matter is of course also that he will under no circumstances admit to being worried, or even to being out of place lest someone take it as a weakness. so he's drinking mead and purchasing a turkey leg with money from a pouch he'd stolen from a hapless bystander, offering friendly smiles to anyone who glances his way - and some flirtatious ones, too, to those who catch his eye. ]

What do you make of the festivities, then?

PAPER FACES ON PARADE.

[ solo appreciates a good party as much as the next person. correction: he appreciates a good party more than the next person, clearly. he's found a far finer outfit than his last, the mask hiding his features is an intricate thing in bold green that emphasises his dark hair and his strong jaw. he's chosen it very carefully and he's determined to make the most of the evening, far away from the cia and, yes, uncle. ]

Would you care for a dance?

WILDCARD

[ anything goes! i know nothing about dnd but he's a rogue now bc that seems fitting. ]

paper faces on parade

[whatchoice]

[ wanda has been wallflowering with the best of them for the majority of the party, nibbling on one of every treat. she's on the tail end of chewing when she is asked to dance and she has to finish chewing quickly to answer. her half mask cannot hide her half startled expression.

she hasn't had enough time to realize people aren't afraid of her from the get go here. ]

We'll look like a Christmas tree, [ she declares, even as she's putting down her finished plate. her dress is a lovely, dusty red, her mask a delicate red and black construction. maybe christmas means nothing to him, maybe he won't care. ]

Ren Suzugamori | Cardfight!! Vanguard | OTA (Changeling Sorcerer)

[thedarkbond]

[a: it's all fun and games until...]

[Ren is a gamer, so of course he gravitates to the festival games. But as a gamer, there's also one thing he reviles above all else: a cheater.

Maybe don't get in line for any of those rigged ball and bottle games, because Ren can be found at the front of many a one of them when a sudden horrific roar or screech of some kind of predator startles the stallholder into action. Whether it's instinctive or clumsiness, or pulling down something that starts a chain reaction, it ultimately ends the same way - the stallholder knocking down their shelf in a way that reveals the bottles are firmly glued to the wood.

At which point, Ren politely raises a scaly finger like they might not have noticed.] Oh, I think you might have a problem with your shelves...it's a shame, isn't it?

[He smiles innocently over to any nearby members of the Circle, because clearly he is in no way at fault here and this is entirely coincidental.]

--

[b: spectator sports]

[Ren ultimately decided to settle for spectating the tournament rather than participating, because it suits him better to catalogue other people's skills than to show his own hand. Still, he's doing his best to be supportive either way.

Those who return to the stands beaten or victorious, as long as they put up a good fight about it, will get an equally delighted bit of applause from Ren hanging over the side of the stands.] That was a really good show, you know~?

--

[c: ceremony of lights]

[The lanterns heading to the water reminds Ren a little painfully of home, and while he takes a lantern, he doesn't appear to have written anything on it. At least, not on the side of it that's visible, and he's holding the lantern between two half-curled arms, almost like a hug, which doesn't help in seeing anything else that might be written.

It's hard to miss the damp, solemn mood, so Ren keeps his spirits rather cheery when he passes by other Circle members, the black scales on his arms and up one side of his neck and face glinting in the lantern light.]

Did you decide on a wish for them yet...?

--

[d: masquerade]

(i.)
[Ren is definitely the party type, and he shows up in a mainly red robe with a number of drapes, black detailing and worn with high armoured boots for that little more drama to the look. His mask continues the red and black theme, but with a horn-like protrusion coming up one side overlaid with something more like a butterfly.

He goes through the dance easily, moving from partner to partner as he likes. So one might find themselves face to scaly face with him before too long, smiling airily and all too ready to slip his fingers around the hands of his new partner.]

So, shall we dance, then? [That's a face and a gentle insistence that aren't taking no for an answer.]

(ii.)
[Ren ends up sitting on someone's fence to watch the fireworks, legs crossed in a way that looks somewhat odd considering how precarious his seat is. It's been a while since he's been to something like this, and the thought settles unpleasantly in his stomach along with the reminders of the slowly stretching months it's been since he's seen any familiar faces from home.

The melancholy thought means it takes him a moment to notice if anyone's come to join him - the spot he's found is a pretty good vantage point for the viewing, honestly - and he starts in a manner that he forces to be slightly exaggerated to draw attention away from the possibility of it being sincere.]

Oh, were you looking for a seat?

--

[e: wildcard]

[[Feel free to hit me up at reviseleviathan for anything else!]]

masquerade.

[wraithes]

[ inej has mostly been trying to stick to people she knows, for the dance. but eventually, she winds up with a stranger -- and her spine stiffens, at the sudden contact, but she recognizes ren as a member of the circle.

and so: ]

I suppose I have little choice.

[ a bit dryly, but it seems to be the name of the game, isn't it? ]

I am not entirely sure how the dance works, but I'll do my best -- unless you want to find someone more suitable?

[ pls. ]

Klan Klang | Macross Frontier | OTA (Genasi Barbarian)

[traumaplate]

[a: how do formal clothes]

[Klan is a career soldier from a species that still holds war and combat in high regard, so the idea of having to go to some kind of formal dance is...a little disconcerting, to say the least. She's obviously familiar with the concept of formal clothes, but she's never in her life had to wear them, and the fact that she's still pushing seven foot even in this world, and reasonably muscular even beneath the thick layer of rocklike skin, is definitely not helping her find any formal clothes that fit.

So here she is looking bemused in front of one of the tailor shops in town, looking at a premade garment that she seems concerned about accidentally ripping considering how delicate it is.]

Please tell me they make some of these things out of stuff that isn't going to rip as soon as it touches my skin...

--

[b: ceremony of lights]

[This kind of thing seems a bit more like a human tradition, considering what Klan's seen them celebrate back on the Frontier, but she goes along with it. There's something about the solemnity of the ceremony that puts her at ease in some respect, makes her feel like she understands it more than she otherwise might, and while she hasn't been here long, it means she hasn't been here long enough to have forgotten the losses she suffered shortly before coming here in the first place.

So it is that she carries two lanterns down to the waterside, careful in her steps so she doesn't accidentally knock anyone else's out of their hands. One of them is turned outwards, and the wish written on the paper on it is visible: Let our colony and our new land prosper. It's strange to have been pulled away from the Frontier at that pivotal moment of finally finding a planet to settle, and she can't help but have it on her mind.

The other lantern is turned inwards, so the wish is more difficult to see, but it might just be possible if one comes at it at the right angle. That said, Klan turns a little awkwardly to one side if she comes too close to said right angle with anyone, even as she keeps moving.]

Sorry, you'd better go first, or I might put an elbow through your lantern accidentally. [That's definitely why she turned to hide the second wish.]

--

[c: masquerade]

[Ultimately, what Klan ends up wearing to the ball is something that doesn't bother her build too much, a simple skirt with shoulder drapes and chest connected together by thin rows of beaded decoration, the dress itself a deep pink-red. Her mask is more in line with her hair, a simple half-face shape in blue and gold.

She doesn't look entirely comfortable among the actual party, and is mostly standing next to the food table, consistently plowing through plates of the plentiful offerings there. It's making her more inclined to want to join the party, but she still doesn't really know how, and she frowns a little as she watches some of the dancing like she just doesn't really get how it works.]

Is this the kind of "culture" that everyone is supposed to know? [She sounds mildly unsure in saying it, which is unusual. Performers she's very used to, but she always considered that a different kind of skill, rather than something that people just apparently know how to do.]

--

[d: wildcard]

[[Feel free to hit me up at reviseleviathan for anything else!]]

masquerade.

[insubordination]

I think it's less 'culture' and more 'fun.'

[ roy is watching the dance, for the most part. he does have a date, but they're not attached at the hip tonight, and while riza is off talking with someone else, roy is socializing. as he does. but he inclines his head toward the dance floor, amused. ]

Do you want to give it a shot?

( semi-closed )

[wraithes]

closed to team one.

[ inej is in the kayak on the river, preparing for the oncoming race. she isn't entirely sure whether or not she's going to be able to find a team to participate, but it's fun to watch the bracket races, at any rate. . .

bu she sees a pair watching the races, and inej's curiosity is piqued. and so she stands, waving a hand: ]

Would you like to race?

[ she wants to win, dammit. ]

closed to nina.

[ the night of the larger dance, nina hears a tap on her door, to find inej with an armful of fabric, her damp hair framing her features. she looks a bit out of her depth, but if anyone is going to help inej get ready for a dance, it would be her. ]

Nina?

[ here goes nothing. ]

I need your help.

closed to kaz.

[ she had arrived with him, but had quickly lost him in the mayhem of the ball. both of them with the understanding that they were here together, but that certainly didn't mean they needed to remain together. inej still had no real idea why kaz had bothered to want to come at all; it really wasn't his thing, and it wasn't really hers, either. but still, they were here to have fun, for once.

and so inej had sought out other friends for a brief spell of time, allowed herself to be coaxed into dancing with a few she trusted enough to dance with, but after a few turns, she decides to come find him again. wanting to spend time with him, and have a reprieve. sometimes, things can be too much, and kaz offers a quiet sense of solidarity.

spotting him is fairly easy, and inej moves to his side, to watch the people dancing. comfortable, her cheeks faintly flushed, and she rests her head against his arm. gently leaning, the contact barely there, but enough to signify both to (1) him, that she wants to spend time with him and (2) to others, to leave her alone for a bit.

then, after a moment: ]

How many of these pickpockets are on your payroll?

[ it's said dryly, her eyes scanning the crowd (and, maybe, the tiniest bit suitably impressed). ]

wildcard-ish.

[ if you want a thread with inej in the festival, feel free to ping me / get a hold of me on discord (protestations#7783) or plurk (protestations) and i will write a top level for you! :) ]

team 1!!

[andco]

[Getting called on to join is fundamentally the last thing Lucy expects to happen while watching the teams load into their kayaks and shove off the river bank. Here she is, trying to kind her own business while the Skull chatters ceaselessly into her ear (that at least is perfectly normal), and then suddenly--

She blinks around, glancing first behind her to make sure the girl in the kayak isn't addressing someone there inside. Then, once reasonably satisfied that isn't the case, she points at herself in the universal gesture of 'who, me?']

edward elric ( fullmetal alchemist ) | 4th wall

[certification]

YOU'LL SHOOT YOUR EYE OUT.

[ listen. nobody likes being kidnapped. nobody likes being kidnapped when they're in the middle of something really, really important, as edward elric is always in fact in the middle of. edward's not the type to dilly dally too much no matter what kind of festival is going on, so he ignores the calls of the men trying to scam some poor sucker out of their money.

yeah. screw that. he wants answers, and he needs them now. like where is he, why the hell is he here, where the hell is his brother--

"aw, come on, kid! what's the matter! if you bring your mom or dad over, i'll let you throw for free!"

ah.

edward rounds on his heel with the impressive kind of motion that can only come from someone about to blow their gasket, turning around towards the gameskeeper throwing a ball up and down. ] Alright, that's it, you want me to knock over the bottles? I'll knock over the stupid bottles--

[ he's gonna snatch the ball right out of this guy's hand. in fact, he's going to clap his hands together first. he's looking vaguely manic.

please stop him before he destroys this entire stand. ]

YOU'LL SHOOT YOUR EYE OUT!

[ come on, you know he's running around with the kids. ridiculous or not, competitive is edward elric's middle name, and the giggling children are taking absolute delight in watching this manic little man go chasing after them with his broom and his padded sword. ] Is that the best you've got!? C'mon!! En garde! I'll take you all on at once!!

[ with an appropriate "arrrrghhhh!!!", it's clear he's just fine horsing around. this has become a major game of tag, with ed ducking and dodging around kids and obviously having the time of his life.

he takes a whack to the knee and doubles over like he's been shot. the kid who hit him opens their mouth to proclaim their ultimate victory (in this serious game) and ed suddenly grins and knocks his hand on his metal knee.

clang, clang. ] Not today, kid! [ and he will now go tearing off like a bat out of hell after this child, waving his sword around and not really trying to actually hit them but making a total ruckus anyway. he'll let himself get caught eventually.

probably. ]

THE LIGHTS.

[ not really the type to believe in wishes, edward's leaning back against one of the stands and watching as the locals gather for their solemn lantern lighting ceremony, still holding a turkey leg in his metal hand and tugging the flesh off of it with his teeth.

this place's got weird lior vibes, just more...

nah. there's not a chance in hell there's a damn thing in this bizarre festival that's actually "magical". in typical elric fashion, edward's not about to let anyone get away with conning with alchemy, which means after his long moment of observation, he pushes off of the wall and turns away, back towards the festival.

and goes to snoop. there's got to be some kind of mastermind behind this. expect him accidentally in any place he absolutely should not be in, poking around and looking for the proverbial man behind the curtain. magic. feh. ]

you'll shoot your eye out: the prequel.

[insubordination]

[ and, out of absolutely nowhere, comes a hand on edward's shoulder, before he makes the unfortunate discovery that alchemy does not work here, and resorts to more desperate methods. ]

Apologies for his obvious lack of skill and temperament. He doesn't know any better.

[ in a matter-of-fact tone to the game owner, who looks suitably confused by why edward is so offended at . . . whatever he's offended by, and roy tugs edward backwards a bit sharply. for all the world, he looks like an exasperated parent. ]

Come on, we need to go. Now. Hurry up.

[ WHY DO YOU ALWAYS ACT LIKE THIS FULLMETAL ]