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

[beariot]

Most places with sufficient volcanic activity can have some that are safe for normal folk to use. [ Ursula nodded. ]

Though with magic, we don't really need to rely on terrestrial energy for that. Plus we can enchant the water to be even better for the skin. It's definitely a witch's luxury.

[ And one she rarely got the chance to enjoy, given the lack of space for such a thing at Luna Nova. ]

[showsnopiety]

Those within the Ring of Fire, for example.

[That made sense to her. Or she hoped it did. And she supposed that too made sense...though...she tilted her head.]

Make it even better for the skin? How so? Is it moisturizing?

[Some things about magic about other worlds were completely baffling.]

[beariot]

Oh all kinds of things. You'd come out feeling smooth as silk after a soak in one of those. I got to experience it once or twice, and it was well worth it. [ Ursula nodded firmly. ]

I'm sure the process would be pretty complicated to replicate here, though.

[showsnopiety]

It does sound as if you'd have to do...

Spell layers? I'm not sure how it works.

[She's rather vague on the details. But it sounds like it'd be like a spell layered cake...in the water. Sort of. She's trying okay.]

[beariot]

Oh, let's not think about it too hard, right? The point of this is to relax. It's such a stressful time trying to deal with this world and trying to find a way home, we should cherish moments of rest like this.

[showsnopiety]

Ah yes, you're correct.

My apologies.

[The witch had a point. Though moisturizing water sounded good-especially with the cold. It wasn't kind to skin.]

[beariot]

[ Maybe Ursula could look up an enchantment spell for it later, but in the meantime... ]

So... Feeling any better about this whole Bonding thing?

[showsnopiety]

Ah...well.

[She shifted in her seat. She might have even squirmed.]

After a case was made...I will be bonding with someone in a week or so. He just needs a little while to adjust to his newst bonds

[beariot]

I'm glad to hear it. I was a little worried about you, I have to admit. Could you... tell me about who you're going to bond with?

[showsnopiety]

Well...do you know Ignis Scientia?

[beariot]

[ Ursula blinked. ]

Actually, yeah. We're part of a study group. [ And as she said that, it occurred to her just how she'd met him prior to that.

The food. Caren was there. They'd made it together. ]

... OH! You and him?

[showsnopiety]

Oh, he did mention something about...

[She stops and. Blinks.]

What do you mean me and him?

[She's not sure if she should be confused or something else.]

[beariot]

It's not a bad "you and him", I assure you! [ Ursula lifted her hands, palms open in front of her, laughing sheepishly. ]

More that... it just shows how oblivious I can be to these kind of things sometime. I didn't even notice you two were that close.

[showsnopiety]

[Caren eyed Ursula for a few more moments before offering a slow nod. That was better.]

I wouldn't say we're the closest but...we have an understanding.

And we're not acting as if Bonding is some form of marriage.

[It's more like a leash.]

[beariot]

It's definitely not. [ Ursula needed to believe that, herself, since the complicated situation she was in would just be that more awkward if it were. ]

But it does take some level of intimacy. I think I'm more comfortable with that idea after the festival, but it's still a lot...


... So... [ Her curiosity was burning. ]

Is he gentle?

[showsnopiety]

[Caren looked at Ursula. What a question.

What a bold question!

Caren offered her a slow smile.]

I didn't realize you were so interested in thinking of him and his...skills.

You don't have a crush on him, do you? I understand why of course. But I am curious as to why your mind would leap to him in bed. You're far more perverted then I realized.

[beariot]

[ The deftness with which Caren managed to turn that around on her, morphing Ursula's curiosity into a much bolder point of her own, took Ursula be such surprise that she had to sit there in stunned silence for a moment, eyebrows twitching and jaw slightly slack. ]

That is definitely not why I'm asking! [ Ursula's hands were up again, waving before her. ]

I was curious in a general sense! [ She couldn't argue it wasn't at least somewhat risque, but it was just the two of them in the spring, and that kind of talk wasn't out of place, she thought. ]

I am, 100%, not interested in Ignis like that. [ She could clarify that she really didn't lean towards men in general but she had a feeling Caren would turn THAT on her, too. She really underestimated her. ]

[showsnopiety]

[There was a reason why some people at home regarded Caren as a terror. And also why she needed to be kept on a leash in the first place.]

Only curious? Not interested? Goodness me. It almost sounds like you're denying too hard, Ursula.

[She laughed softly.]

I'd understand why you would be interested of course. He has many fine qualifies- handsome, intelligent, truly clever and passionate- so I wouldn't try to bite your head off if you said you had some interest in him.

But curious in the general sense...

My goodness.

You're a virgin, aren't you?

[beariot]

[ She felt like she was in a peat bog, sinking and struggling, unable to keep herself from falling any further no matter what she did. ]

That's! Not the reason! [ She was stammering, face well too red for it to just be the heat of the water. ]

[showsnopiety]

What could possibly be the reason? You're not wondering what his preferences are, are you? Or mine?

Or were you wondering if one or both of us were open to a threesome?

My, my. Your perversion knows no end.

[beariot]

[ Ursula sucked in a breath, reached behind her to snatch up her wand, and quickly flicked it towards Caren's mouth, placing a conjured seal over it, that sucked in breath being let out shortly afterwards in a strained sigh.

The seal wasn't painful, or even particularly tight. She could still move her lips beneath it, and likely feel that it'd fade away in seconds. But Ursula needed a chance to put her head back together, and Caren was not helping. ]

Caren. It's just girl talk. I was not asking out of my own carnal interests. Are we clear? [ For a woman who had came to these pools to relax herself, she sounded utterly exhausted in that moment... ]

[showsnopiety]

[Oh, that was new. She reached up to gently touch her lips, and feel the spell that was over her mouth.

Not what she expected to happen but ah...well. That she will touch on when Ursula lets her mouth open.

Caren just offers her a closed mouth sweet smile. She hears her. But what is this thing called girl talk.]

[beariot]

[ With another tired sigh, Ursula gave her wand a second flick, dispelling the silence spell over Caren. ]

Now... Let's just talk about something else, okay?

[showsnopiety]

[For a few moments, Caren just watches Ursula, even after the spell is dispelled. And then she offers an open mouthed smile.

Her teeth have changed a bit-or rather, her canines have. They're more prounced then before. Sharper. Nothing like a vampires either.]

Don't do that again.

[beariot]

[ The fangs were expected. She knew Caren was among the beasts, after all. It was the whole reason she'd needed a Bond. And after facing down what easily could have been her death against Fang, she didn't feel any more intimidated by Caren. Her own eyes remained calm, but she did avert them, for a moment. ]

I'm sorry for doing that, and I'd prefer you not put me in a position where I have to, again. So as you ask me not to do that again, I'll ask you to not needle at me like that again, too.

Deal?

[ As mousey and restrained as she came off at times, Ursula had a side to her that would stare down a lion bearing its fangs, it seemed. ]