event log: winter wonderland

[moustre]

Event Log: July, Snow Sun? Snow Fun.

Summer's First Snowfall Juril comes in as hot as Iuneril did - muggy, humid, tense. The city buzzes softly with rumors of accidents and incidents, the faint pink skies lasting far too long and starting far too early only bolstering these. I burnt my buns last month, it goes. I never burn my buns. The flowers haven't been growing as well as usual, it goes. It must be because we had red skies during Litha. Such superstitions might be laughable - but in a world of magic, maybe they hold a little more truth than one might want to acknowledge. Still, for as many rumors as there are, there are just as many people who refuse to let the omen get them down. They might be a little more cautious, but they're hardly stopping what they're doing: sailors in the harbors carry good luck charms as they work, households hang sprigs of chamomile above their doors, Witches pound out extras of finding, luck, and safety magics in enchantment and potion form... Aefenglom is a superstitious city, but it's also a hardy one. It's the superstitious nature that leads some intrepid young Witches to think everyone needs a little distraction from thinking about the color of the sky, however, and as the sun crests over the bay, white flakes begin to fall. The air grows colder, and throughout the day, the snowfall grows heavier and heavier until it blankets the city - or a few key parts of it. The snow shows no sign of stopping either; while it lightens up periodically, it still flurries on. That might not be entirely intended - and the snowstorm that hits near the end of the month definitely isn't. Enjoy a peaceful snocation while you can, Aefenglom. As noted on the calendar, this phenomenon will last all of the month! Feel free to set your threads and logs at any point during the month of July; all activities listed in the prompts below will also be going on throughout it.

I. THE COVEN For the first week of snow, the Cove calls off classes. It's not exactly a secret that the Head of the Coven proper has a fondness for the cold, so it doesn't come as a surprise to the students she'd put a temporary hold on instruction-based learning so she they could all enjoy it properly. There are just as many Witches deciding to study on their own as there are enjoying the respite from their professors, however - every opportunity to practice is a good opportunity. For the rest of the month, it's back to business - but students still find time to have a little fun with the cold weather both during and after their classes, and their professors don't discourage it too much. a. Winter's Touch It should come as no surprise at all that when Witches get involved with snowball fights, they use their talents to their advantage to send multiple chilly missiles at one another. They float, they fly, and some of them even latch onto the closest heat signature they can find - whether or not that was the intended target. Keep your wits about you, return fire, or cajole others into joining in! There's no such thing as "allies" when it comes to the Coven's brand of snowfights. b. Enchant Snowcreature Snowmen aren't the only things that get created during the winter; animals of all shapes and sizes do too, and it's not uncommon to see the snow version of animals both of the regular variety (birds, deer, squirrels, cats, foxes, and so on) and rare (the fairytale depiction of dragons, unicorns, sphinxes, and pixies, to name just a few) roaming around along with a Frosty or two. There's even a sled ride hosted by a pair of snow pegasi for those interested in getting off the ground. c. Ice Spires Instead of building forts and castles like regular people, Witches at the Coven use a mixture of transfiguration and conjuration magics to simply draw them from the surrounding snow and ice themselves, Elsa-style. Their creations range from the beautiful and intricate, to the hardy and hard-to-navigate - for safety reasons, naturally - and some even draw up elaborate staircases to the skies to expand on their creations. Make your own or simply explore the creations with a friend - but be careful, as at least one Witch has the had the inspiration to magic up some sprigs of mistletoe to hang in their snow fort. d. Winter's Respite Not everyone is happy with the snow, however; in particular, those tending the gardens of the Coven are quite frustrated - plants, even magical ones, are quite delicate and sensitive to the cold!! As a result, there are warmer spots even around the Coven's courtyard; the snow is melted, and the Witches there are doing their best to save the chilled plants. This is also where one can take a break from all the cold and get some hot coffee that'll keep you warm for hours after finishing it and clothes enchanted to adjust their temperature depending on the temperature - for those who don't want to ruin their sporty short-sleeves style for heavy winter clothes. These enchantments only last a few hours, however. For the interested: yes, the Witches are more than willing to teach those who'd like to learn how to do this - though their version of teaching seems to be more "watch and learn" than actual instruction.

II. THE RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS Encompassing the Residential District proper on both sides of the River Temese, the Aristocratic District, and the Haven, the housing districts are similarly covered in snow - the Aristocratic District has gotten the worst of it in particular, being in the perfect place to center the massive weather spell the Witches responsible have set off. While the streets are quickly being cleared to make foot and hoof traffic a little easier, there's still a lot of snow and ice to take part in, and just as many people willing to have a good time in it. Children in particular are having the time of their lives in all the districts, and the sudden cold weather seems to draw people together - perhaps a little too literally, with long scarves grabbing the nearest person to make a pair, mittens that won't let you stop holding hands until you've gotten somewhere warm, and wooly hats that suggest in quiet whispers to you that you should definitely go give that person you just locked eyes with a hug, they look so lonely... Whether they actually do or not. Someone might've had a little fun with their sewing. a. EASTERN RESIDENTIAL In addition to the usual snow fun (with a significantly less magical spin on it than the Coven - magic is still present, but not to the same wild extent), there are hearty soups, hot chocolate, and fires to warm oneself around. Take a seat and relax a little; almost everything is free, though those wishing to purchase some (secretly enchanted) clothes to stay warm in a more permanent fashion than what's offered at the Coven. b. WESTERN RESIDENTIAL Compared to the other housing districts, the snow in on the western side of the Residential District is much less - and that's due to the presence of heated stones. Alone or grouped together, those more cold-blooded in nature gather to rest and keep themselves awake while the chilly weather marches on. Nagas, Chimeras, and even the exceptionally rare Dragon or Fae can be seen here, with Vampires lurking around in similar spots with umbrellas and tarps up to shade them further from the darkened snowy sky. Spicy foods are popularly handed out around these areas, while in general everyone seems in favor of cuddling up a little. c. ARISTOCRATIC DISTRICT While there are still rumors of pickpockets and petty thievery about (and the suspicious looks that come with such words from locals in the area), it hasn't dampened the spirit of those who really, really enjoy snow one bit. There's less activity than in either Residential District (and a lot more complaining about the weather), but what activity there is makes up for it: igloo-making, ice skating on makeshift rinks in the middle of intersections, sledding on the massive piles of snow, and taking a jingle bell-filled ride in a horse-drawn sleigh through the stunning Aristocratic District. The latter is especially good for those traveling to and from The Haven and don't want to get their feet too cold (or who can't handle the cold temperatures at all). d. THE HAVEN While most of The Haven has been relatively untouched, minus anything anyone living within it might have done - that's you, mirrorbounds - the barracks have been extra dressed up with lanterns and blankets to help keep out the cold a little better, and keep the warmth in. Some kinder Witches have also conjured up a few extra water fixtures, but not for skating on: hot springs populate the larger areas that aren't already taken up by houses, and for those not willing or unable to get in the water, there are sauna options as well in the same areas. Don't get too steamy, though - people getting a little too heated in these areas will automatically have cool water poured on them by some magical means in an effort to get them cooled off. It's a spell designed to keep people from overheating, but it isn't very picky with what it considers "too hot".

III. THE HARBOR DISTRICT Like the southern half of the city, the Harbor District is relatively untouched - relatively. It's an area much more based around industry and work than anything else, and interrupting it isn't looked on very favorable. With that said, though, the harbor is fairly large, and Witches finding a place to practice their own ice magic (inspired, evidently, by the going-ons at the Coven) have managed to bring of the winter cheer to the otherwise dreary district. The orphans, a mix of humans and Monsters, are more than delighted by this turn of events, and they're a common sight playing in the snow summoned around their orphanages when they're not working in the many factories of the Harbor District. What's notable about them is that they don't use any magic at all when dealing with the snow - they've never had any learning in actually utilizing it for themselves, only in feeding it through the magitech used in their workplaces. Any and all shows of the stuff for purely fun reasons, therefore, bring forth grins and awe, regardless of the kind shown. Provided it isn't used to hurt anyone, of course. a. ICE FISHING The areas of the bay that are iced over - either gotten by permission or by careful people watching to see how much use the area actually gets - are home to a surprisingly popular activity: ice fishing. Fishing rods, spears, ice chisels, and boots made for stepping on the ice are easy to obtain from those who've set up shop in the area, and many people have already taken to the frozen ground to try their luck at catching something further out than the piers. There are places to cook and eat what's freshly caught as well, but mind your step; the places where holes were are less thick, even as Witches routinely make certain to refreeze them every hour or so to encourage fresh activity in the area. b. ICE SKATING The other not-as-surprising popular activity for such large swaths of frozen water is, of course, ice skating - and of course, unlike other areas which assume you already have the gear to do so, people have specifically (and quite quickly) set up stalls to sell their skates and sleds for prime ice fun. A little early for their winter line-up, but they're making do. Decorated with small bouncing lights hung on strings, not to mention the tents set up with blankets and pillows, the Harbor District's ice skating area is meant for those who'd like to take to the ice during both the day and night - and the latter is particularly enchanting in its beauty, the soft lighting allowing the frost to glitter in multi-color glory.

Welcome to your snow-filled event log! As a reminder, this will take place over the whole of July, so feel free to take prompts and inspiration for it for threads at any point. If you have any questions or need any clarifications, you can ask them here! We hope you all have a good time and don't give us the cold shoulder for pulling off not-Christmas in July.

Comments

Harry Dresden OTA

[iminthebook]

Haven

By late afternoon, Harry can be found in his back yard swearing as he repeats a spell from a scroll and heat washes over his garden, pushing back the snow and cold. He had run, not walked, to the Coven to get help earlier, and they had provided it. Now he just had to maintain it.

And he was annoyed. Not annoyed that he had a new spell to learn, but annoyed that someone had done this without asking. Without consideration. He swore in Fae, Sumerian, Latin, Spanish, and Elvish as he finished the motions needed, and walked back into his house to wash and change.

By evening, after some other errands, he can be found nailing together some boards around and over the garden, not covering it entirely, but making a partial shield to help the magic out a little. He'll gladly tell anyone who comes along what he is doing, and why.

Haven

[justbeingknife]

Hey. Whatcha doin'?

[ Majima wasn't much changed from his usual mode of dress as he gestured at the boards -- dark suit, boots -- but he had put on a scarf and some gloves as a kind of stopgap until he could shop for a decent overcoat.

He didn't recognize Sumerian, say, but he would get the overall tone of Harry's swearing, should he still be engaged in such. ]

Haven

[iminthebook]

[ Harry smiled as he glanced over at the man, taking a break to swill some water from a small water bottle. ]

Trying to put a frame around the garden for a warmth and protection spell to cling to. I got a spell from the Coven, but giving it a structure to hold on to helps the spell work more efficiently.

[ He waved down at the herb garden below the framing, where ti seemed a touch warmer and almost sunlight-ier than the rest of the area. ]

[justbeingknife]

Would've been nice for the witches to give everyone a little more of a head's up, huh?

[ Were those herbs down there? Majima considered this for a moment. ]

Want some help? I got some free time on my hands.

[iminthebook]

Seems like it was some idiots putting on a prank. And yes, it would have been nice, but I imagine they thought it was funny.

[ His tone and expression shows he does not approve.

At the man's offer, he smiles. ]

Sure, if you are sure. Just gotta get these board in place to make a basic frame, and it'll be done.

[justbeingknife]

Got it.

[ So he hopped on over (well, figuratively speaking), grabbing himself a spare hammer and some nails. ]

Don't have to be fancy, huh? All the better.

[ Majima lined up one of the board, framed it up against the existing structure, and started to tap one of the nails in. He was pretty decent at it, too. ]

What're ya growin'? I took a couple classes on flowerin' plants, but yours don't look like ornamentals.

[iminthebook]

No fancy at all. The more basic the better. It just needs to be solid.

[ He nodded to the other man as he braced a piece of wood and set it in place, carefully. ]

Herbs, mostly. A few vegetables, but mostly herbs for magical and medicinal uses.

[plasticasshole]

[Connor is on his way to Harry's house to see if Justine is home, so he catches him at the door swearing in Latin. He smiles to himself, because he knows exactly what he said.]

Hello, you must be Harry. Do you not enjoy the snow?

[iminthebook]

[ A man knowing his name draws Harry up short and he surveys the man carefully and slowly. He cocks his head to the side, curious. Likely a friend of Justine's or a fellow Coven student, or both. Still, he is cautious. Unconsciously, his stance squares up. ]

Normally, I enjoy it fine. When it comes down unseasonably and threatens to ruin weeks or work on a garden full of magical and medicinal plants? That is when I have an objection.

[plasticasshole]

[Connor seems relaxed despite Harry squaring up to him. He realises he did just come out of nowhere and approach his home, after all.]

That is a problem, yes. I'm sorry, I'm probably keeping you from fixing it. I was just wondering if Justine was home.

[He offers a small smile.]

If she isn't, I can always help you with your garden?

[iminthebook]

[ Harry smiles ruefully, cocking his head to examine this person. ]

I think she is, yes. She was inside, working on some things, last I looked.

[ He eyes the man. ]

Sure, why not? Any friend of Justine's is a friend of mine.

[ He offers his hand. ]

What do they call you, friend?

[plasticasshole]

[Connor takes the hand in one of his own scaly, webbed ones to shake it.]

My name is Connor. I wouldn't want to disturb her while she's working, so the garden it is. I'm not a Witch, but I can help in other ways I'm sure. Just tell me what you need from me.

[iminthebook]

[ Shaking hands, he nods. ]

A pleasure to meet you, Connor. And if you want to help, if you could keep an eye on the wood from your side and make sure I am not unbalancing the whole thing as I put it together, that would be a lot of help. Can't see both sides and that is annoying.

[showsnopiety]

Caren had actually been considering coming over to visit with Justine-mostly to consult about a possible shopping trip for boots-but she hadn't expected to find Harry in the yard. She wasn't sure what he was doing exactly either.

So she ended up folding her arms under her chest, and moving up briefly onto her toes as she tried to spy on his activity.

"You're using wood? Not wood and a canvas of some sort?"

She was curious, watching with big golden eyes. And funny enough, she didn't seem too disturbed by the weather, wearing tights, gloves, and a beret that didn't go with her dress.

Caren was was flushed from the cold and shivered from time to time, but she wasn't letting that get in the way.

"Or are you making a rabbit hutch? It doesn't seem good weather for rabbits."

[iminthebook]

[ Harry glanced over and smiled. ]

I'm making a framework for a spell to cling to. Makes it a little more strong if there is a structure to hold onto. Like any other tool, magic is only as strong as the effort we put into it.

[ No matter where he is, and how annoyed he is, Harry cannot resist falling into teacher mode.

Noticing how cold she is, he beckons her. ]

If you want to get warm, step over here near where I am. There is a heat spell active, and it should warm you up.

[showsnopiety]

Cling to? I didn't know a spell had to be physical.

[And she fell into student mode easily enough, curious as it was. And with how cold she felt, she didn't refuse-couldn't bring herself to really. Instead, she drifted over, rubbing her arms.]

Thank you. For the heat and the spell talk. I don't really know anything about magic.

[iminthebook]

It doesn't have to be, but a physical structure helps it work. It gives it more form and that way the spell isn't also maintaining its form, as well as doing what it is doing.

[ He nodded, continuing to move the boards and shift them to make the framje how he liked it.

As she came closer, he nodded to her. ]
You're welcome. I was a wizard back home, and I love studying, so I've been working as hard as I can to learn magic here.

[showsnopiety]

Oh...so it's saving energy?

[She made sure to stand out of the way as he continued to work on the boards. The fact that he was a wizard had her make a small sound, and look him over.]

Wizard, and not magnus?

[Curious that. But still-]

My apologies for the questions-I do have some basic education on magi, but that's based on my word, not yours. And I haven't introduced myself either.

I'm Caren Ortensia. And you're...Harry?

[iminthebook]

Yes. Magic takes a lot of energy and that is why there are spells in the first place, instead of just trying to will things to work. A spell gives the magic form, and this structure is like that.

[ He nodded as he smiled at her. ]

In my world, its called wizard, but I'm learning that every world has different terms for magic users. And I never mind questions asked honestly.

[ He nodded again. ]

I am. You're a friend of Justine's then?

[ How else would she know his name? ]

[ishisstrength]

Justine stepped outside with a thick gray blanket over her arm and two cups of steaming hot chocolate. She was as annoyed as Harry though showing it by remaining inside or within the baths. remaining away from the snow was all she could do in protest that didn't involve being slow.

She placed the two cups on the ground and then draped the blanket over Harry's shoulders. "You should take a break. I think the plants can survive a few minutes. I brought you hot chocolate."

She also brought marshmallows which she had made after the first day of snow.

[iminthebook]

Harry turns as she places the blanket on his shoulders, and he smiles at her, and nods.

"I can do that. Things will hold for a little while."

he touches her side gently, and nods. "Thank you, Justine. You've been rather understanding over my ranting and swearing."

[ishisstrength]

"I have heard worse." She handed him one of the steaming mugs before commandeering the seat at his side and a small fraction of the blanket. It was very warm as it had been sitting with her in front of the fire inside.

Justine's dark eyes glanced over at the garden as she took a sip of her drink.

"Will they all live through this?"

[iminthebook]

He slipped one arm around her and smiled. Sipping his drink, he mmmed.

"I think so. Maybe one or two might not, but the spell the Coven gave me is a good one. And we can take turns practicing it to reinforce it when we are not busy."

He snuggled against her, not because he was cold, but just because.

[ishisstrength]

Justine leaned against him and exhaled a happy sigh. She shouldn't be happy like this but... she can't help the way she felt. No matter the distance she tried to put between them. It was moments like this that she looked forward too.

"Sounds good. I don't plan to go out unless I have too. I'm making scarfs and mittens for people. So you might see a lot of people coming by."

He's been warned.

[iminthebook]

He gently thumped his head against hers and smiled, hugging her. No matter what was between them, he knew he felt comfortable holding her, which bothered him. He should not be putting his feelings ahead of hers. He sighed.

"I'll remember that. Should I send people in to see you if they come by?"