EVENT 031

[sticksandbonesmods]

MA CHÈRE MADEMOISELLE!

BE OUR GUEST, BE OUR GUEST

It starts just before the crack of dawn. The night sky is still pitch dark, still as ice and just as cold and yet the four statues of the Goddesses within the Grove shine brilliantly; two from the courtyard, one in the Moon Shrine and one in the Sun Church. It’s such a bright light, beckoning even those caught in the deepest of slumbers to wake up and come forth. And as more people filter through to the light, there's two playful, downright giddy giggles in the air-

And the Grove finds itself in an orchard of fantastical fruit, a nebula-like sky shining overhead while Beiwe and Ourania stand before you all, grinning.

“We do apologize for how sudden it was…”

“But we decided you deserve a fun fieldtrip for once.”

They gesture around the orchard and uphill you can see what looks to be a mansion of marble and some celestial material you’ve never seen before. Pale silver, gold and blue animals - Stars - can be seen floating through the air, some tending to the orchard and the gardens in the distance while others play. Those who have been injured as of late will find themselves healing rapidly over the course of a few days, with the cost of deep, longer sleeps than usual come time for bed. An entire wing seems to have been built from nothing before your arrival, and it’s entirely dedicated to housing you with whatever you need, from luxury guest rooms to private bathrooms and a large onsen, and while you’re here, not a single want will go unaddressed.

The Goddesses guide the lot of you to the house, encouraging you to explore and play and rest - after all, with the library, the pools and springs, the gardens and the kilns, there’s a lot to do.

PUT OUR SERVICE TO THE TEST

If it’s relaxation and nature you want, Ourania is the one to ask. Her vast gardens hold multiple styles and she welcomes anyone to stroll through the flowers and ponds, or even join her or your own friends on a floating pagoda for tea through a crystalline lake of flowers and radiant pond fish. She has books to read, sights to simply take in, and even walks through a pitch black yet sparkling forest. Her teas bring on a soothing calm, and the snacks served with it are pillowy and light without being too sweet. It’s a refreshing time, every time!

But she’s not just healing; Ourania is also the Wilderness. Which is to say, while she won’t take kindly to you trampling through the flowers, she encourages play no matter the age as well. And if you wish to spice it up, she’ll even grant a minor blessing to heighten agility, the senses, reflexes, speed… and just enough aggression and adrenaline to make things exciting! If not a bit competitive.

She always watches from a seat with a canopy and refreshments for the players, and sometimes celestial animals may join in the fun. Sometimes they simply watch and yell out encouragements, other times the more dextrous of the Stars may give… background music? Regardless, they always return to their own domains laughing joyously.

Beiwe, meanwhile, offers numerous creative pursuits. The kitchens are open for cooking lessons — as she puts it, “some of you are hazards and need a hand”. Numerous, endless ingredients spill out over countertops and kitchen islands, with sharp knives and wooden cutting boards in abundance. Beiwe’s favourite cranberry-orange muffin recipe is pinned to a corkboard for people who had always wanted to learn it — or those who simply crave the taste of autumn in winter. The Goddess is a hands-on teacher, but that means she can only work with one person at a time; for those of you who already know how to cook, perhaps you could assist in the classes? And don’t worry, the kitchens are fireproofed via a wave of Beiwe’s supervising hands. When you’re finished with your lessons, you’ll find her sitting at the dinner table waiting for a sample, with her elbows impolitely on the wood and her chin in her hands.

Aside from cooking, there’s also art — she won’t let you forget that she’s also the Goddess of the Forge. Like back at her church, part of the home contains a large pottery studio with hot kilns and ample supplies. Here, too, Beiwe offers lessons to those who are learning to sculpt with the wheels or simply with their hands. For those who are less inclined toward pots, plates, and sculptures, the adjacent room has easels and paint for free use, though lessons won’t be given there. She’s not much of a canvas girlie.

Out in the courtyard with her twin golden lions sits a single throne, which Beiwe happily plants herself on so that she can watch you duke it out. Craving a fight? You can have any blade you dream of — axes, glaives, rapiers, broadswords, you name it and she’ll conjure it out of a radiant light for use in her outdoor arena. In this space, injuries will not stay for longer than an instant, and your powers will be realised to their fullest without harm to your bodies. Should you wish it, Beiwe herself will join in on the battle, but be warned: the full power of a Goddess is not something she’ll bear against you, no matter how much goading there is.

TIE YOUR NAPKIN 'ROUND YOUR NECK, CHÉRIE, AND WE PROVIDE THE REST

All great vacations must eventually come to an end, but worry not: Your final night involves an extravagant ball thrown in the Goddesses’ ballroom, an event that lasts from afternoon to midnight. Here, everyone is welcome and dressed to the nines — should you need an outfit, the Goddesses will spend the prior day outfitting you. You and your pets, if you would like them to have cute little outfits. The Goddesses themselves will be dressed to the nines too. Ourania waltzes with Beiwe in a silver princessy ball gown, and Beiwe is… wearing a suit with the sleeves ripped off. Sun’s out, guns out.

When they say “everyone” will be there, they do mean everyone. Lady Death dons a trailing mermaid gown in black, flecked with sparkles of green and a glass of wine in her right hand; the Seasons make their first appearance to many of you, dressed in clothing that gives off small cosmetic magical effects — Winter’s snows roll off their sleeves, Autumn’s crisp leaves fall from the ends of their coattails, Summer’s dress colours fluctuate with the sunset and sunrise, and Spring’s suit jacket blooms pink flowers. The Guardians are here as well, though Moder is simply covered in barding made of flowers and leaves, and Callan regularly tries to escape his clothing. Somehow, the Goddesses have managed to cram Aurora into a vest and bowtie, and Sehul is in the armour they used to wear before their prior death. Some Stars, translucent and in various shades of blues and pinks and whites and oranges, make their appearances as well. Some are more animal than man, some more man than animal, all grateful for your efforts to save them despite everything. And though the Lord of the Mountains and Cosmic Serpent couldn’t make it — one of them is trapped, and the other is napping — the Goddesses assure that the two have sent their well-wishes. For those looking for old friends who have since come to live here, they’re here too — all in good health and working hard, of course. …which, yes, does mean that a certain crane hasn’t slept in a week. Nothing ever changes.

All formalities aside, while Ourania loves her formal dances and classic ballroom music, it seems like Beiwe has gotten hold of Sesa’s phone and learnt what EDM is… so halfway through the party, the classic ballroom music will abruptly flip when Beiwe has the orchestra somehow, by some otherworldly miracle, playing fantasy Daft Punk. Did you expect her to not clear the floor for those who don’t want to waltz all night? Come on.

Those with musical talents themselves are encouraged, nay, voluntold to play music for everyone else to groove to. Up on the balcony is ample space for performances of all kinds, though the Goddesses will ask that those who opt to take the mic don’t be too raunchy with their performances. Love songs are beautiful, but let’s keep that love PG-13, okay?

Food and drink will flow in abundance, with the buffet table constantly restocking. Dietary needs have been taken into account, too, and appropriate labels are on every food. No “mystery meats” here! By the end of the night, you’re welcome to take home a little goodie baggie of extras to snack on before the Goddesses send everyone home the next morning, back to the Grove with bright smiles and many, many hugs.

…

Many days later, just as January begins, those of you who look up at the ever-shifting moons may notice that each of them has a gouge in their surfaces, black as pitch and moving, squirming… and that a new celestial object has entered its orbit in a sickly-coloured brown-red.

Spark Notes (Click to Expand)

summary

BE OUR GUEST, BE OUR GUEST: Welcome to your sleepover with the Goddesses! Room and board (and food and everything) is free. All they ask is that you enjoy your vacation.
PUT OUR SERVICE TO THE TEST: The Goddesses have provided numerous activities for you to do around their home, ranging from wildlife walks to full-out PvP. They'll both assist you with whatever you need, too.
TIE YOUR NAPKIN 'ROUND YOUR NECK, CHÉRIE, AND WE PROVIDE THE REST: The party begins! The ballroom is decorated to the nines and so are you. Free food and drink are provided, and so are outfits. The Goddesses encourage performers to get up on the balcony and entertain the partygoers, and the morning after, you'll be returned back to the Grove.

out of character

Welcome to December! This month will be check-in AC, but please remember to post your check-in whenever you're able because we will sweep you otherwise. For now we are also asking players to hold off on creating logs that take place in January, given the end of this event.

updates

Any potential updates, such as characters damaging something important or whatever else, will be put here.

submissions

❖ Questions
❖ December Plotting
❖ Past Life Plotting (Closed to Game Members)
❖ Investigations

code

Comments

QUESTIONS

[sticksandbonesmods]

INVESTIGATIONS

[sticksandbonesmods]

Please use the following form for investigations:

Character(s):
Location:
Action: What are they looking for? What are they doing?

<b>Character(s):</b> <b>Location:</b> <b>Action:</b>

[argentry]

Character(s): Elder Faerie, and anyone who wants to come with him
Location: wilderness, the "pitch black yet sparkling forest"
Action: Elder Faerie would like to see if he can identify anything in this forest. what are the vibes? are there more of those star creatures that were playing in the orchard? what about other creatures? he is respectful to nature and to Ourania and will not step on flowers or hurt anything.

Elder Faerie Cookie | Cookie Run: Kingdom

[argentry]

1) exploring the mansion

[being in the orchard has made Elder Faerie feel young again. you may find him examining the trees or the starry animals before he wanders into the mansion with the others. while he is mostly interested in checking out the onsen and the ballroom, he can't help but worry about this being some kind of trap. at least, at first. as the month lingers on, he relaxes a lot more. he has not learned enough about this world's goddesses, but it appears that he does not need to fear them.

so he goes through the month living in luxury with the others, trying to make new friends, and trying to get closer to others he has already met.

still, he must rest every now and then. those of you that find him sitting down will take notice that Elder Faerie is knitting things, still. gifts, no doubt, for Cookies, and other people. there is a little creature that has been following him everywhere, too]

Now, now, Puck. I have told you not to chew on this. It is meant for someone else.

[he extracts the scarf from the creature]

If you must nibble on something, we can find some fruit.

2) the wilderness

[did you ever want to enjoy a pot of tea while sitting across from an ex-King? now you can! Elder Faerie and Puck are riding on one of the floating pagodas, enjoying tea and good company, as well as the view]

This place is quite lovely. The more I see of it, the more I wish to know about it.

[Puck ruffles a bit in his lap, lightly snoozing]

3) ballroom dancing

[donned in a freshly-pressed suit, Elder Faerie sweeps into the ballroom for the festivities. this is the final night of their vacation, and he's a bit depressed about that, but you wouldn't know by just looking at him. his long hair is pulled back into a half ponytail, with his bangs framing his face. his crown is nowhere to be seen tonight. he hasn't felt like wearing it, lately.

if you have been waiting to dance with Elder Faerie, you will not be disappointed with what he brings to the table. he is skilled in ballroom, and can both lead and follow. if you need help, he's also a fairly good teacher.

he may also sing up on stage, if the mood hits him. Puck sometimes rides on his head while he is dancing, shattering the cool image Elder Faerie might have emitted. it's fine, though, because he is having a great time, even if he is sad about leaving!]

4) wildcard

[i am open to other prompts and ideas! if you have something else you want to do with Elder Faerie, slap it here!]

1

[love_swan]

[ Aira is a fairly normal fixture in the Grove. Elder faerie has probably seen him about, even if they haven't talked before. Aira himself certainly recalls the regal-looking man from... less than enjoyable memories of that horrible dream world. That may have been why it took so long to approach.

But approach he does. He happened to hear the thing about fruit and already had some on him. Too many people here forget to eat if left to their own devices. He has to be armed with snacks. ]

Hello, am I interrupting?

[ He holds up an apple with a slightly bashful smile. ]

1 :3

[averageineverything]

[luck would have it that senjuro and his own little creature companion happen to be wandering by when elder faerie scolds the nibbling owldog. both of them startle a little, the critter jumping a bit and the boy blinking and looking down at it. but... oh, the man is talking to that adorable round little guy.

before senjuro can really stop him, mimikyu skitters over to elder faerie and his pup, leaning in to stare at... the both of them, actually. you puck? him also puck! you faerie? him also fairy!

the shenanigans his own puck gets him into... senjuro is all but tripping over himself to come collect the little fellow, even though it isn't outright harassing either of the strangers.]

I'm sorry, I hope Puck wasn't a bother. [ah, the potential for confusion makes his face flush already.] That is, my little Puck... [said little one tilts his "head" back and forth some more. he doesn't see the big deal, he's just making friends.]

3

[lilyberation]

( lily is also present, a bit more shy than others- but she beams across the room when she sees him, dressed finely with pure white gloves beneath the sleeves. )

You look so handsome tonight.

[eidxiety]

i. baking (badly)

[After months and months of practice, Ain's baking is... only moderately better, and that isn't saying a lot. He's horrible at it still. Less setting fires these days, and more "can't separate egg whites" and "eggshell in the batter" and "lumps in the batter" and well anyway you get it—

That said, he's dug himself something of a hole promising a tiny cupcake recipe he was never going to deliver. He didn't think anyone would seriously want this... he barely knows how to bake in general, and now his moral compass is telling him not to break an old man's heart. He needs to learn to bake. He could ask for clearer help but then he'd have to admit to lying, and that would be bad (for him specifically) (telling the lie was clearly not the bad thing obviously). So, instead...]

When you're making cupcakes or cakes or whatever, [he's mixing batter that's Crunching as he asks this,] if you double the amount you're making, you double the ingredients, right? So if you're making half... or really tiny ones... you'd halve the ingredients...?

ii. party time!

[Ain spends way too long getting dressed for this party. Well, "way too long" by the perceptions of a guy with anxiety whose head-ghosts are already dressed for it, so like, an hour maybe. Part of that hour is spent cramming Dachsologie into a tiny suit jacket and bowtie while his owldog protests with loud barks and very cross tippytaps. How dare you, father. How dare you put him in a little outfit.

Meanwhile, Ain dresses up in around half an hour, having not worn anything so dressy in so long that he almost feels weird about it. But with him and his owldog matching, he will proceed out into the ballroom...

...and immediately have to pick up Dachie so he doesn't go careening toward the buffet table.]

Dachsologie.

[Hi, he will be spending this party holding his animal like a baby, he supposes. Unless he can be pawned off on someone long enough for dancing to get done, anyway.

Free owldog, inquire within.]

iii. wildcard

[you know where i live]

i

[lovelyredthread]

Pretty sure that would depend on how big the cupcake molds are.

[ maybe he's a little confusing with his wording there. ]

Because if you're using a standard sized one with just really small molds, you might not have to. If the sheet is small too, then you'd have to adjust.

ii

[lupusxylem]

[While Ain is standing somewhere holding Dachie so he doesn't commit even more crimes, he'll feel a tap on his shoulder. When he turns to look, he'll see Wolfwood standing there with his hands in his pockets...it seems that Ourania managed to "convince" Wolfwood into wearing something a little more fitting for the occasion that wasn't his usual dusty blazer and jacket, a ensemble he will wear tonight and never again because it makes him feel like a stuffed turkey. But she assured him people would appreciate the effort so FINE, he guesses.

He'll gently scoop Dachie from Ain's arms without asking, poking a finger into his neck fluff.]

Are you gonna stop bein' evil long enough for me to dance with my fiance?

[loansharpedo]

A) The Gardens | OTA

[Well if he's going to be allowed to indulge in such a lavish locale, far be it from him to not do a bit of exploring. At least he CAN do that here, no thanks to a certain, purple-haired someone who doesn't know how to treat her fucking guests-

Anyway.

You may not know him yet, or maybe you met him when he first arrived some weeks ago, this man dressed in a black suit with purple accents walking among the flowers with his massive Scolipede partner trundling at his side. He actually resembles Gnosis quite a bit funnily enough, what with his glasses and general mannerisms...

Except for the fact he's fucking short. This man is like, 5'2". He's three apples tall. You'd do well not to mention it if you want to keep your kneecaps, though.

Anyway, he's wandering and occasionally stopping to examine a flower he's never seen before, feeling its petals or turning over the leaves, trying to determine its variety and toxicity. Scolipede will also occasionally stick his big head in the flowers for a BIG sneef.]

B) Onsen | OTA

[Lumiose doesn't have a bathhouse or anything of the like, which is a crying shame in Corbeau's opinion. He knows the Big City isn't exactly a place for it, but given his penchant for old Sinnoh decor, it's something he's considered having put into the base. Might as well take the opportunity to enjoy it now.

Maybe you're already relaxing as he steps in with just a towel, both of his arms covered in tattoos that form sleeves, then further down his back and over the top half of his chest. He'll lower himself into the water before pulling the towel aside and sinking in the rest of the way, laying his arms across the back of where he's sitting with a deep exhale.]

Pardon the intrusion.

C) The Party | OTA

[Corbeau is for fucking sure going to get an outfit tailored for himself, who do you take him for-

Though it's not that different from his usual attire, it's certainly a lot more lavish and extravagant (the third one but purple). Clearly made to look the part of a ballgoer, that's for sure.

Again, thank god this is a party he actually WANTS to fucking be at.

He may not know that many people here yet, but far be it from him to mingle. He wants to get acquainted with those who have been here much longer than he has, so if he catches sight of you milling near the dance floor while a danceable song is playing, he'll approach and offer you his hand.]

May I?

[If you are not either as short as he is or shorter, you might have to lead before he tries to force it himself-]

B :)

[thebladebringstheflame]

[Flamebringer is already in the onsen, big and covered in scars and rocks (and tattoos of his own). Also this is a terrible (?) time to find out about all his piercings for new people but whatever—

He's expecting to see other people, but he's not expecting the new guy to have full sleeves. Flamebringer even whistles, tilting his chin up at Corbeau.]

How long did you spend getting all that done?

C :) short ass-

[bladeascent]

[Vildred is a fucking giant of a man. 6'5", beefy as fuck, broad-shouldered... you know, dwarfing most people in here. He's dressed nicely but not over the top, sort of lingering around the floor... prime target for dancing. At least he knows how to do a formal waltz (and is used to sharp height differences, because of Ras).]

Sure!

[Vildred will take that hand, and he like... probably dwarf's Corbeau's he's so sorry man. At least he has the good sense to not comment on it—]

lets go in the garden....

[chonomai]

( it seems they have the right idea, in a way. shinobu hasn't gotten to meet many people yet, instead having been resting in the clinic before they were brought to this realm. it feels- wrong, somehow, and yet she's grateful all the same. the gardens are a great comfort, and for once in her life, she does not have to worry about being mission-ready at all times.

as she wanders, clad in a purple kimono and a soft pink overcoat patterned with butterflies, she also takes her time to admire the flowers and their properties. but then she spots corbeau and whatever the hell that thing is- whatever it is, she loves it immediately. )

Goodness! I've never seen such a creature before, but its lovely.

no fuck you. wildcard bitches

[justacityboy]

[Hi welcome to Beiwe's kitchen :)

Urbain is one of the ones who doesn't necessarily need help (learning the different names for fruits here, and the new fruits, yeah he needs help with that — the meats and veggies too, but largely it's 1:1 and he picks it up pretty quickly). He's out here to help others! However. There are recipes... dishes he does not have.

Corbeau is making something, and Urbain's nosy side comes out full-throttle. Since his own food (muffins) will be in the oven for a while yet, he's appearing at Corbeau's side to watch him do whatever he's doing.]

Whatcha makin'?

[justacityboy]

i. cooking classes

[Urbain doesn't need cooking classes... well okay, he needs them in the sense that he'd like to learn more cooking styles, but realistically he's not a kitchen hazard. No, a tower of curry does not count as hazardous, he has never given Anybody food poisoning. He takes his kitchen safety very seriously, okay?

That said, the things he's most interested in learning are recipes. If he's not pouring over a cookbook, he's leaning over your shoulder.]

Whatcha makin'?

[Alternatively, if you're someone who doesn't know what they're doing — bad knife technique, eggshells in the food, not washing your veggies, whatever — he's coming to assist.]

Hey, so... not to discourage you, but can I help you with your technique at all?

ii. how to tie a tie. alternatively how to dance.

[Sometimes you sit there in a Goddess's dressing room and you're like: I really need Naveen here actually—

Urbain is not a fashion girlie. He's a sweatpants and jacket girlie. He's a pink sneakers with a blue shirt girlie. The one time he was going to go to a formal event, he wore his stupid sweats, but the difference there is that that event was not hosted by two Goddesses. He feels like, speaking from the perspective of someone who isn't really religious but knows better than to get spicy with Gods just based on logic, he should put some effort in.

So he picks out a suit. Everything is relatively easy to put on because he, thankfully, knows how to dress himself (even if he gets the buttons misaligned twice in a row shut Up), but then it comes time for the tie. Urbain thinks to himself, pfbffft ties are easy everyone knows how to tie a tie, and proves himself wrong within about thirty seconds. Therefore, he approaches you with a sheepish grin and the tie held out.]

Hey, can you help me out? How do you tie a tie?

[He could just go without it and keep his collar popped, but is that appropriate?? (He hasn't spotted Beiwe with her sleeves ripped off yet, he doesn't know okay.)

After that's sorted out though, it's time to dance! ...except Urbain also has no idea how to do a formal waltz. So actually he's not going to ask this time, he's going to proceed to go eat snacks and watch people like a hawk until he can figure out how to move like that. Don't mind him.]

iii. wildcarde

[hit me with whatever im down-
i'm trying to remember which of you don't want Z-A spoilers so jic if you haven't threaded w/ urbain yet pls lmk if Z-A spoilers are Bad Or Not, tyyy]

ii | Immediate Z-A spoilers sorry

[loansharpedo]

You're not wearing your usual clothes? I'm surprised.

[Though, it's very possible he just wore his sweats to Jacinthe's party to stick it to her in some way. He knows that's what he would have done, but he's also a petty bitch-

Anyway hi Corbeau is here, and he will sigh and take the tie as it's handed to him, deftly readjusting and fixing the tie in his hands first from where Urbain discombobulated it a bit trying to get it on.]

A tie is a slipknot. Here, stand in front of me.

[Presumably there's a mirror Urbain can look into, and Corbeau will stand behind him and reach his arms around Urbain's shoulders to show him step by step, looking the tie around his neck first.]

Fold the larger end over the smaller end and wrap it all the way around to make a loop. Then, you pull the bigger section up through the loop at the base of your neck, then stuff it back down into the second loop made after you've done the first. Then you just grab the base of the knot and slide it comfortably up to your neck.

[unheiring]

i. Stepping Stones That Bloody Your Feet — The Gardens
[For a guy who absolutely hates the cold and especially loathes the snow, the change in climate is most appreciated. Luca finds himself gladly sunning beneath the odd sky, relaxed back in a patch of grass. He’s even found himself some snacks and a glass of wine.

He won’t be sharing the latter, but if anyone comes by, he’ll offer a piece of fruit, or even some cheese and crackers.]

You better enjoy it while it lasts. I suspect it will be all the more miserable when we return home.

[Later in the day, though, you might find him shifting in his task. He is gingerly stroking over his feathers. Every now and again, he pulls one out, inspects it, and if he finds it worthy of his respect, he sets it to the side.

Eventually he ends up with five feathers, which he carefully gathers up for later. Uh… weird?]

ii. Sirens Holding Flowers of Teeth — The Kitchens
[As the time for holidays draws closer, Luca finds his way into the kitchens. He waits for when Beiwe isn’t actively holding a lesson. He has a number of fruits laid out, each of which he carefully dices, mashes, blends, does whatever he needs to create a proper filling for a number of hand pies.

Two things may happen if he’s found working. He may find himself flushing and stammering, making excuses about his efforts. Or maybe he’ll offer a spoonful of fruit mash and get your thoughts.]

Too sweet? Too sour? What do you think?

iii. They Call Your Name From Ivory Streets — The Ball

[Though it has been nearly a decade at this point, Luca is woefully familiar with soirees like these. He might have expected, as he struts into the the festivities dressed to the nines like everyone else, to feel a little out of place or overcome by nostalgia. Instead, instinct kicks in, and he blends easily into the crowd.

Familiar friends are approached with a smile, before tugging them out onto the floor. For most people, it will be a fast paced and lively song, albeit still in a classical style.]

Come, let me show you how to dance to this.

[For others, those he might be more romantically inclined toward, however, he chooses to take their hand as the music starts and gingerly coax them toward the dance floor.]

Is this alright?

[Of course, old habits die hard, and this is no exception. He finds himself surrounded by alcohol, and begins mixing drinks almost unconsciously. He does his best to create an approximation of the nebula in the sky above, the sparkling but dark forest outside, and even the resplendent hall they find themselves in.]

What do you think? Should I add it to the menu?

iv. But Heaven isn't Quite What it Seems — Wild Card

[You know what to do! Hit me up, or just throw something my way.]

iii

[kingincognito]

[ Like Luca, it has been a while since he's attended any sort of event like this. Unlike Luca, it's been the better part of two decades, and he'd been so very young at the time. That doesn't mean he doesn't recall the way that these events go, though he's having to put himself in the position of the adults in his memory. But this isn't a ball hosted by noble representatives of other countries. It's hosted by the Goddesses, and they won't mind a slip of decorum.

And those same Goddesses have seen fit to outfit him in quite the princely ensemble, with plenty of room for his wings. He isn't used to wearing so much white, but it does seem to suit the winter season, if nothing else.

But as Luca takes his hand, that's the farthest thing from his mind. Joshua smiles, nodding and giving his hand a gentle squeeze. ]

Of course. Though, I hope you'll pardon me if I cannot remember a step.

[tempurahair]

i. It's an Endless Night — The Training Grounds/The Woods

[To call Kyojuro’s thoughts cluttered would be an understatement. Since Shinobu’s arrival at the end of the month, he has felt restless, even agitated, without any clear outlet. There are few that he feels he can talk to about that which fills his mind on a regular basis. And now with the only two he might talk to being the source of one another’s guilt or rage, he has swallowed the keys to the lock on his mind and kept quiet.

Until he arrives in the gardens. Until he is presented with an endless source of training, all without the drawback of lasting wounds.

He trains for hours, striking dummies with his myriad forms of Flame Breathing. If anyone seems to be watching, or if they try to focus on their own training, he will quickly grab their attention.]

How do you feel about a spar?

[Or perhaps he is running through the deep, dark forest of this sacred place. He takes the blessing of heightened senses, if only to see what he could be capable of. It’s a similar situation here. If he even detects the slightest bit of interest, he’ll wheel on you with a too-wide grin.]

Would you like to chase me? Or be chased?

ii. It's a Starless Sky — The Art Studio

[But eventually, even training doesn’t scratch the itch. Sometimes, it feels so second nature, so mindless that his thoughts wander all the same. When it reaches that point, he decides to try something new.

Crafting anything exceptionally big or lavish is an impossible task. His hands feel too broad for any sort of delicate work, and certainly far more suited to force rather than delicacy. It’s probably why he fails in throwing several pots, watching in defeat as they droop into little more than a blob.]

Well. That is not what I meant to do!

[Still, he finds it in himself to smile even with each failed effort, and he eventually tries again. Frustrating though it is to start over, it’s still a task he has to think about, and that much is a mercy. Besides, with winter having fully arrived in the Grove before they were whisked away to this place, he is well aware of the holidays that are approaching. His friends and loved ones, of which there are many in this place, deserve gifts.

Eventually you might find him settled on a smaller task — rolling out individual beads. It must look quite silly, his brow pinched in focus as he creates different sizes and shapes — most of which still look small in his large, worn hands Some are a bit more misshapen than others, but all of them are carefully hollowed out.

And when he finally finishes, he looks… satisfied.]

Not too bad, I think!

[Later, you’ll find him painstakingly painting the beads, too. There are different colors and symbols. Suns, butterflies, ginkgo leaves — they’re all here. And though they’re not perfect, he’s satisfied when he finally finishes.]

I think this will suffice, but what are your thoughts?!

iii. It's a Hell That I Call Home — The Ball

[Admittedly, Kyojuro is a bit hesitant to attend the ball. It all feels a bit romantic, and thus ill-timed considering his woes. And that’s to say nothing about the fact that he doesn’t know the first thing about dancing. Nevertheless, he knows that everyone will be there. As a man who has seen innumerable loss, he knows just how valuable moments like these can be.

So he does arrive. He’s dressed in an outfit that evokes flame itself. It’s a bit too fancy for his typical liking, but he’s doing his best to match the crowd. There's something else a little off about him too, maybe around the face? The eyepatch he's been known to wear is gone and - how long as he had such a freaky looking eye for? And once he’s there… he does find things to enjoy. Namely, the buffet table, where he goes down the line plucking up various foods.

Yes, he is shouting about how tasty it is. And yes, his voice can be heard above the music. Deal with it.

Later in the evening, curiosity might take him, and he’ll stand at the edge of the dance floor. He stares at the dancers, whether it be a flowing waltz or a shoulder shaking bop. There’s obviously a want to be apart of it, a need to learn the steps, but also clear hesitation too.

Maybe it’s time to help him take the first step?]

iv. It's a Long Goodbye on the Other Side — Wild Card

[You know what to do! Hit me up, or just throw something my way.]

ii!

[lilyberation]

( she's not here to make, not the same way others are. her hands are delicate and stiff and numb, and she feels a little out of place being here. but kyojuro has been working so very hard, hasn't he? so of course she's here to... ah. be a mom, she guesses! when did that happen for the people of the grove?

how strange.

she doesn't quite catch the question, but she leans over to look as she brings in a tray with a glass of a lavender lemonade. )

They look beautiful. These must be important, right?

[namuthing]

i. Between Teeth on a Broken Jaw — The Art Studio

[This place is not made for Genya Shinazugawa. The gardens feel too elegant, the rooms too fancy, and the ambiance too relaxed. He feels like he’s going to crawl out of his skin, but there’s no outlet for any of it. His ability to use any kind of blade is not worth speaking about, so he doesn’t dare approach where Beiwe holds her sparring.

Even the Art Studio, he feels, is too much for someone like him. But he notices some of the wood tucked away, deep black like the strange trees, and he finds himself… interested. He’s no good with a large blade in a fight, but the smaller tools seem to fit right within his hands.

Granted, his first attempts aren’t very great. A cat with too large of a head and too short of a tail. A dog that he accidentally slices the paw off of. A snake that looks a little more like something belonging in a toilet.

But with all the time and peace he has to work through, he slowly gets better. Eventually, a bunny comes together, one that he holds carefully within his palm and finds himself… smiling at?

It’s only then that he decides he’s satisfied, and moves onto something else. It’s arguably a simpler task, but a much more important one in his mind. Eventually he accumulates a small pile of bangles. Should any of his friends get too close, he’ll immediately cover them up and glare daggers.]

Mind your business!

[If you know Genya at all, you’ll know that tone. It’s anger that covers up embarrassment, that’s all. And hey, if you’re not friends yet, he might be a little more willing to talk.]

People… wear things like these, right? It’s not a stupid idea?

ii. Following a Blood Trail — The Ball

[Genya will have to be cajoled into it, but eventually, he does indeed arrive at the ball. He decides to wear something a bit more western than traditional, and it doesn’t really feel like him. But the Goddesses are nice, and when he learns that Morrigan will be there, he takes the opportunity. The bunny he carved is tucked into his pocket, and will be given to her first thing before he goes to hide outside.
You might find him with bright red ears if you peek out there.]

Fuck off and leave me alone! I’m busy!

[Again, he’s just a shy, awkward teenager, nothing more. He’ll get over it, and eventually rejoin the crowd. He’s going nowhere near the dance floor himself, but maybe you can drag him out? Your call.

He will find himself sneaking bites of food. Since he hasn’t stolen anyone’s hair recently, his appetite for human food seems to be returning. And being that he is still a growing boy, he eats a lot.

If he catches you looking at his mountain high plate, he might get a little huffy.]

You can have a bite or two if you really want. Just get your own, after.

iii. Frothing at the Maw — Wild Card

[You know what to do! Hit me up, or just throw something my way.]

ii

[infinitemist]

[ Fish out of water is an understatement, really. Muichiro isn't any more at ease than Genya in this kind of getup. He looks pretty different between the pastel teal and white of his suit and the bun Shinobu put his hair up in before they arrived. The little decorations on the hair stick make soft jingling noises when he moves and he's not really used to that yet...

Getting told to fuck off by Genya isn't exactly a new thing. He's always pretty crass, and it rarely if ever means anything. Instead, he just gives him some space, waiting by the door until Genya's cooled off enough to come back inside. ]

Feeling better now?

[yourtomb]

i. I Saw the Body Infused — All Around the Realm

[Though the peace of this place is unnerving, and being in the presence of the gods that listen something of a melancholic concept, Silent Salt is able to keep moving. It helps that he has a task at hand. He knows this time of year, and for the first time he has Cookies he wishes to thank. Only two, but it’s still something. It has been centuries since he could say that.

Not that he has any real idea what to do. Conceptually, he has a plan thanks to Elder Faerie, but actually being able to craft it? That’s an entirely different story. He enjoys tea, but making a blend for someone? That seems impossible. And though Elder Faerie seemed interested in tiny cupcakes, trying the recipe for himself only results in very burnt husks.

Nevertheless, for several days in a row, Silent Salt approaches the kitchens. Though he keeps to his armor for the most part, his helm and gauntlets are left in his room. It exposes skin that covered in scars that look more like cracks than any sort of physical wounds.

If someone is caught looking, though, he might pull them back just a bit.]

I apologize. I know it is rather… unsightly.

[And perhaps after that, he might abandon the kitchen. Not because of eyes on him, but because of efforts that continue to fail to come to fruition. In fact, he very nearly thinks to abandon the idea of giving out gifts altogether.

Until he finds himself walking through the gardens. Only then does another idea come to mind. It takes some time to research the exact choices he wants, but eventually, he winds up with two separate piles of various flowers, tucked carefully within the grass.

He seems… so very focused as his massive hands try to weave together such delicate stems, but he tries his best all the same.]

ii. With Gardens in Bloom — The Ball

[Admittedly, the star attraction of this visit seems a touch… lavish. Some part of him even thinks it’s bordering on offensive. How nice it must be, a god in your own realm capable of hosting parties while the masses die toward the wretch within the woods. But he has been assured that Ourania and Beiwe are not that way. And if he has learned one thing over his years as a commander? The people do need moments of levity.

And so Silent Salt finds himself at the ball. Dressing up equally feels wrong, but the Goddesses insisted he not wear the same armor he’s been wearing, no matter how much he insists that it’s been fastidiously cleaned. He looks… the slightest bit uncomfortable in his attire. Never mind the crowd and noise being a little overwhelming.

And of course, he doesn’t know the first thing about dancing or etiquette but… he’s here. Doing his best. Compared to the last event he attended, at least he’s not looming quite as much? He picks up a few pieces of food here and there, and even tries picking at a few instruments here and there as well.

He might even look toward the dance floor but - no. Certainly that’s too much for him.]

iii. The Liars Exhumed — Wildcard

[You know what to do! Hit me up, or just throw something my way.]

i - garden

[averageineverything]

[senjuro is quiet as he walks through the garden, feeling guilty taking up too much space or intruding upon others, even in this wide open space they've been invited to. his own little collection of flowers grows within his hands, as well as puck's shadowy claws.

the little creature is who first approaches the stranger and peeks at his attempted flower crown. its human hurries up after it, a bit flustered.]

I'm so sorry, please excuse him... [and yet when he sees this huge, rugged man hard at such delicate work, senjuro's heart melts. that task isn't too difficult, but still...] Oh, sir, it's lovely.

pure vanilla cookie ( cookie run kingdom )

[ancientlight]

a. The gardens

( It feels as though it's been a while since he's been able to relax like this, and it's something that he's happy to see that others can do the same. He knows how difficult it's been for others here, and something like this might be just what they need.

He's taking the time to explore the garden, seemingly studying the fauna to see if there's something he doesn't recognize, staff gripped comfortably in his hands before he hears footsteps approaching him.

Pure Vanilla offers a smile to his new-found company, turning towards them completely. )

Good evening. Would you like to join me?

( It's a nice evening, and they have so much to explore. Even though it may be safer to be suspicious of such things suddenly appearing as it has, nothing about this feels ominous to him as it had when he had first arrived. )

b. cooking

( It's been some time since he's tried his hands at any type of cooking – whether it be baking or not - with the exception of when he was traveling with friends, mind you, but making food over an open fire is quite different than working in a kitchen. Still, there's a strange sort of excitement to try to make something new.

Needless to say, anyone else in the kitchen at the same time as he is is more than welcome. Not only is he content to see someone else in the kitchen with him, but he feels almost lost. This is the first time he's tried his hand at a recipe like this.

He speaks softly to the person next to him. )

Pardon me. Do you have a moment? I'm afraid it's been quite a while since I've tried my hand at something new like this.

c. party time!

( Pure Vanilla seems to have a suit chosen for him, courtesy of the goddesses. It's certainly different than his usual attire, but this is certainly the occasion for it, isn't it? It seems as though everyone in the Grove has decided to participate. One might not find him at the snack table or singing, but he's here to converse with others in hope that everyone here is truly enjoying themselves. )

It's beautiful. They Goddesses have truly outdone themselves.

( He's no wallflower. Rather, when others begin to dance, he'll offer a hand for your character to take, offering a small smile. )

Would you like to dance?

( He may not be the most skilled dancer, but he certainly hope his partner won't mind. )

d. Wildcard

( I'm open to any other prompt anyone would like to throw my way! )

c

[argentry]

[oh, Pure Vanilla, Elder Faerie thought you'd never ask! these two Cookies have reached an understanding already. they wish to become stronger for each other, and for their friends. to be of use, even if it means learning new magic together.

he reaches for Pure Vanilla's hand with a smile, not at all coy. it's a confident smile]

Yes, I certainly would.

[he moves in closer to step with him]

Zoey | KPop Demon Hunters

[lyricistdontmiss]

i. 「she could kill you with a wink of her eye」 ballroom

[ Zoey is used to parties! She's used to dressing up! But a grand ball doesn't quite suit her. It's the whole vibe. Slow and proper feels so stuffy and it makes her antsy, like she's going to make some kind of huge mistake and it'll ruin the whole thing. But! She tries her best! She dresses up and puts on her makeup (with glitter, of course, duh) and does the best she can to make it through the night, chattering pleasantly and cramming food in her face. She really does try to mind her manners on that one, but it's hard when the food is so good.

And bless Beiwe, because the second half of the night is her jam. The moment the tone shifts to loud music with a beat, and people are being asked to perform, there's a whole new Zoey. She pulls out her phone and approaches anyone she can, excitedly showing them the screen, paused on the first frame of a music video. ]

Hey, hey! Do you want to perform this song with me? All of our songs are three-part harmonies and like, I could totally just sing Rumi's part since she's lead and there's only one of me, but it's just more fun than trying to sing it all by myself so what if we all sing Rumi's part! It's super easy to learn and I'm not gonna make you learn the choreography, I promise!


ii. 「wildcard」

[ I am extremely no-brain so I only did one prompt's worth of stuff, but there's plenty else to do also, and that's what this is for! If there's something else you want to do that isn't at the ball, use this option! Or feel free to find me on discord to hash out specifics. ]

i

[foreversembrace]

[Till...has mixed feelings right now about all of the music. It's not to say he doesn't enjoy it, he absolutely does...but after what happened with his most recent death, losing his ability to perform? It's really cut deep, and he hasn't even tried singing since it happened. The best he's been able to do is enjoy the sound from afar and try not to let himself get too worked up over it, wallflowering aggressively with his hands deep in the pockets of this suit he feels ridiculous wearing.

But then he's being approached, and his head snaps up as Zoey starts talking faster than he can keep up with.]

Huh? Wh- ..I- ...I mean-

[No is on the tip of his tongue, but he's so flustered that what he ends up saying instead is:]

What....what's the song-?

shinobu kocho 🦋 demon slayer

[chonomai]

( i do not have the brain for a full toplevel so ill post prompts here as needed and desired. )

wallflower (the ball...?)

[chonomai]

( she doesn't have the energy for this. but the goddesses seem so happy, and she cannot refuse a host. she feels lethargic the entire time they all spend getting ready. its in how slowly she pulls the dress on, how she stares indecisively at makeup, barely looks at accessories. but eventually she steps out with a lovely dress and her hair in a more loose bun pinned in place with a hair pin.

she tries to mingle a bit, really she does.

but the music is suffocating and she can't keep up the airy smile for too long.

... so when no eyes are on her, she simply... slips out. which is how she finds herself now, sitting in the gardens and simply watching the sky above. even when she hears footsteps, she doesn't acknowledge them. not yet, anyways. )

Muichiro Tokito // Demon Slayer

[infinitemist]

A spark of hope is what I'm after ◇1》
[ Muichiro is... more than a little bit startled by the sudden glowing statues and transportation to a new place. He's only just gotten used to the idea of his first major relocation, the second is so abrupt that he almost- almost reads it as a threat. After all the last time this happened was the Infinity Castle.

But he's assured these women and creatures do not want him dead immediately, so he allows himself to... somewhat relax. The others are still treated to a very tense 14 year old with a hand on his sword like he expects this to be a trap. Mostly because he does. He's heard plenty about the entity, but next to nothing about the goddesses. ]

... Is this something that happens often?

[ Referring to getting displaced. Thanks, he hates it. ]

A single day with cloudless skies ◇2》
[ Time passes and his tension eases. There is a lot to take in, and more still to do. He can be found in numerous places, be that taking walks through the wilds or tinkering with the crafts. His wanderings expand with days passed since he finds himself healing rapidly while here.

More often, though, you'll find him tucked in some corner of Beiwe's craft area, a mess of paper and markers around him. He seems rather proud of himself as he unfolds a paper he's been working on and it wraps into a three dimensional snowflake. Decorations. Maybe he fancies himself to be helping.

If he's found in the gardens, there's a good chance he'll be the one who bothers you. His steps are silent, even now when they don't need to be. The whispering brush of cloth is the most warning you will get that there's another present in the garden. At least until he speaks. ]

What kind of flowers are those?

[ He's not stupid by any means, but some of these flowers aren't ones he's seen in japan, and flowers... weren't exactly his focus either. ]

would surely make a change ◇3》
[ To be entirely honest, Muichiro doesn't know what he's doing here. On some level he thought maybe attending would make Shinobu feel a little better. He'd let her put his hair up for this event, but this suit felt weirdly restrictive for someone so used to loose clothing.

For most of the night Muichiro can be found on the sidelines, just staring down the dancers as he took in their steps. He's sure he could copy it well enough not to trip over his feet if nothing else.

But sometimes you can find him by the refreshment table. He seems honestly baffled by how many sweets there are. He's not even sure what some of it even is. Don't mind the kid with a full plate of sugar. ]

3

[tempurahair]

[Unfortunately, Kyojuro is indeed minding the kid with a full plate of sugar! At least he seems in better spirits than he has been of late. He offers a smile, then a scolding shake of the head as he grabs a second plate. He heaps it with a heaping pile of tempura vegetables, then holds it in front of Muichiro.]

Vegetables first, Tokito! You must keep up your strength!