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".
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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.
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Connor | Detroit: Become Human | Merrow
Prompt 1
[Connor is wandering in his usual clothes, a simple waistcoat over a thin shirt, and is getting a few strange looks from the more bundled up people. The cold doesn't seem to affect him, though he occasionally rubs his scaled hands together as though keeping the chill out of them. That's more of a habit, though. He seems quite comfortable with the weather, but there's one thing that's annoying him; the pool in his back yard is frozen over. Hank is trying and failing to thaw it out with flaming middle fingers, so it's up to him to solve the problem.
He can either find a heat rock, or ask a Witch to help him. A Witch might be more effective. Connor taps people on the shoulders who seem like they could be Witches (of course, if he knows you already are, it's a bonus) and gives them polite smiles.]
Hello, are you a Witch? I have a slight problem I need solving.
[He could just go to the sea, but... the whole point of the pool is so he doesn't have to. If nothing else, he can offer payment- or a dip in a (hopefully) heated pool? He's probably assuming this will go better than it actually will.]
Prompt 2
[You know what is fun? Snowball fights. You know what Connor has never done before? Had a snowball fight. It all starts when a well-meaning kid throws one at him and hits him squarely in the side of the head. Connor seems stunned for a moment, before balling one up and throwing it back. Not too hard because he's not into hurting children, but once the child has gone on his way Connor finds himself wanting to continue.
He balls up some snow, and hides behind a low wall. As someone passes, he throws a snowball directly at the back of their head. He won't be hard to make out as the culprit, because he's standing there looking expectant, like he wants the other person to throw one back.]
Prompt 3
[Having given up on the pool, or having just decided he wants more company, there's a Merrow basking in the heated springs closest to his own home. His tail is long and he has a terrible habit of swishing it in the water when he's content, which may or may not irritate everyone else. He can handle cold water just fine, but there's something about the steamy water that makes him feel good. He looks to his closest companion and smiles slightly, the fins on his ears perking up.]
Do you live close by, too?
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Progress!]
And what problem would that be?
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My pool has frozen over. And my partner has so far been... unsuccessful with thawing it out. I was hoping another Witch could help, and maybe keep it warm. I can pay, and you can even have a swim if you'd like. It's a very nice pool.
[It's deep and large, good enough for a Merrow to get some exercise without having to go all the way to the ocean.]
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Hard pass on being in the water with him though.]
Well, I admit my choice in study of late has been fire. Perhaps I can help out with that. [She doesn't even spend more than a few seconds contemplating it! ... Surprisingly.] I'm not sure about swimming, though. [Yeah that's a very pointed look at him. She knows what he is. She knows.] Back at your home, then? I'm not sure I know where it is.
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At the look, Connor sighs a little. Well, if it would make her uncomfortable, he won't ask her to do it. But he'd like it if she were less... apprehensive around him.]
Yes, it's home. I'll lead you there.
[He starts walking, hands in his pockets almost as if to try and hide the scales and webbing for Maria's sake.]
Are you enjoying the weather?
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It reminds me of home. Nothing so different as what I am used to... but I didn't particularly miss it when I left. Still, it seems all the layers I normally wear are serving me well. [It was starting to get hot, wearing her entire set of gear. She follows him, of course, and doesn't actually seem to be too plussed about just walking beside him, so that's a good sign... probably.]
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It was snowing at home for me, too. But it was actually November, not July.
[He says it wryly. He was actually enjoying the warm weather here. He only got to experience a night of August back home, and then he had to go into sleep mode until he was needed again.]
Luckily I don't feel the cold, so it doesn't matter that I wasn't prepared for it.
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Hm, yes, though I can't say I don't appreciate some of the cooler weather in the midst of all this heat and humidity. It is worse here than back in Yharnam. [And Yharnam was a rainy, rainy, London-like place.]
You don't feel... even now? [Pause.] Is that part of the Android... nature?
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3
She might have been lured in by his humming again, who knows.]
Not the closest, but it's on the way. The mansions are a little out of the way of everyone's place.
Wondering how long you can keep me?
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[He gives Caren a smile.]
Maybe a little. I do enjoy your company.
[She's a friend as far as he's concerned.]
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[It was Somnus' and she didn't fault him for wanting a large place. He was homesick.
Though the smile made Caren snort-and leaned forward to offer Connor a kiss on his scaley cheek.]
I've no plans. So there's no need to keep drawing me back with song.
[She's teasing, if the lilt in her voice is any indication.]
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It's certainly one way to get your attention, though.
[Connor sinks into the water a little more, apparently enjoying it.]
Do you enjoy cooking? I've been trying to learn how to do it, myself.
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I really should punish you more for drawing me in like that.
[She was clearly teasing from her tone, and was way too relaxed to do anything right then.]
Oh, I like it. I've been cooking and doing all sorts of domestic chores since I was a small child.
[Though she's curious:]
Is there something particular you'd like to make?
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[He sounds cheerful as he asks, obviously catching onto the fact that she isn't serious.]
I'm trying to cook healthy food for Hank. Something that still tastes good. I can't really experiment the way I'd like to, since I can't eat the food I'm making.
[He can taste it sure, but he doesn't think he tastes things the way humans do. His idea of pleasant could be completely different.]
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[She's not serious at all, and she moves to lightly nudge him on the arm. But on the more serious topic, Caren hums, considering.]
You might have to slowly transition him into foods that he'll enjoy. What does he like to eat and drink?
[For ideas. She has a vague one in mind, but Connor would give her some better ideas.]
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Prompt 3
The familiar voice to her left makes her head rise and turn towards Connor. She doesn't blame him for not recognizing her. She'd been napping which is a wildly dangerous activity in the hot baths. Her cheeks are pinked with red heat as she exhales a heavy sigh.] Hello Connor. Sorry if I surprised you.
[He knows where she lives so she doesn't answer him.]
I hadn't realized you would be here.
[Her voice is a little distant and then, without warning, the spell reacts and Justine is dumped with freezing cold water. She gasps and the distant sound of her voice grows sharp and tense.] My god!
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He's about to answer her when the water is dumped on her, and he blinks and scoots closer to check that she's alright.]
I didn't know that could happen. Are you okay?
[He pushes her wet hair from her face.]
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Yes. I think the spell thought I was over heating.
[Justine slowly steadies her breath.]
Hi. [She's a little exasperated but she smiles at Connor.] I should have realized that was you. I must have fallen asleep.
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[That's one way to wake up. He moves to Justine's side, curling his arm around her and sharing his warmth.]
Are you here trying to keep warm?
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It will warm her up but hopefully stop her from over heating and summoning the magical bucket of cold water again.]
Yes. I don't mind the cold but I hadn't been expecting it. [She pauses and then scoots a little closer to him. Justine has seen his tail before but that doesn't mean she's lost her fascination in it.] Are you trying to keep warm too or do you just miss the water now that it's all ice?
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[His tail sways idly from side to side, occasionally rising out of the water but quickly feeling the cold and going back under.]
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fade to snuggling black.
2!
She could be indignant, but he looks so expectant standing there that it's pretty easy to make the choice to bend down quickly, gather a loose ball of snow in her hand, and lob it right back and him. ]
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I'm sorry for surprising you.
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Not sorry enough to stop! [ She points out. He's not a Witch, that much is obvious, and arguably using whatever his native monster magic is to form snowballs is kind of cheating ... but Yako can play that game too. She looks around quickly for what she needs, and finds it the snow-covered edge of a roof.
Rather than gathering snow in her hands, she decides she may as well try out one of the spells she's been working on. She puts her fingers to her mouth and blows out, and a small ball of wind dances off her fingers to the snow-covered eaves, aiming to knock snow off it and directly onto Connor instead. ]
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Okay, you got me...
[He picks up two handfuls of snow, lets them transform in his hands, and throws both of them at Yako. He'll fight dirty if she will.]