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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Berserker shifts against him. He's ice cold, wounded and too proud and distant, he suspects, to allow anyone else to tend to either of those two things; leaving his side isn't an option.
The weight of his oath and attachment anchors him to the spot. He looks away only to take off his own overcoat and wrap it around the dragon.]
And you, son of Erin.
[It aches. Is this it? In spite of himself, he's fighting a two-sided battle to keep his voice and expression alike calm. Even when he turns to Archer, he sounds as taut as a violin string, ready to be played upon with an equally melancholy sound.]
I said that's enough. No more of this today, Archer, please.
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He wants to shake the coat off and refuse the help, but he's really too numb to fight it. It's warm, dry, and smells like Diarmuid, all of which are welcome and comforting. He manages to get to his feet finally, even as every nerve in him lights up in pain.
Speaking of pain, the pain on Diarmuid's face concerns him. The ache is shared through their bond, troubling him further. Ah, this is all his fault. Well, no, Caster shares a good bit of the blame, too, but mostly it's his fault. He has to say something. He keeps his voice low, as these words are only meant for his Bonded. ]
I will give you the choice to sever our bond. I won't hold it against you if you choose to do it. I will no longer be your burden to bear. You would be better off if you simply gave up on me.
[ He'd told Diarmuid not to let him push him away, but things have changed. This is too severe of a situation to hold to that. An Alter Servant is a problem for everything and everyone around them. The reality of his existence is crystal clear. ]
I'm giving you this choice out of courtesy. Don't think of it as running away...I was never your responsibility to bear. I was never supposed to exist. [ He never wanted to exist. ] Don't feel obligated to help an impossibility. You owe me nothing, Diarmuid Ua Duibhne...
[ He closes his eyes, expression pained momentarily. ]
Do as you will.
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So he focuses on Archer, because he's immediate, he's close— and he had just done something Caster can't comprehend. It takes a long walk in silence, time to let the warmth take on effect, there is quite a walk to the Coven and maybe they want to not take the most obvious and populated streets. No one needs to see more of that bloody mess.
When they're in one of the side alleys, away of prying eyes he stops and grabs Archer by his collar ]
What the hell Archer? What... that was supposed to mean? [ He doesn't need protection, he doesn't need someone threatening his enemy in his stead— fuck, he's feeling vulnerable and weak enough even without that. But there is part of him that welcomes an ally after so many years (centuries) of fighting alone. A guest is under the host's protection, some would extend the protection even outside of the household grounds. It could be explained this way—
But there is something more at play here, isn't it? You don't need a mind reader to see that, just like you don't need one to see what's going on between Berserker and Lancer. ]
You had no need to get involved in this. [ His fight with Berserker was his alone. No one is Bonded to him, so no one gets to share this burden. If he knew before what is going on with Diarmuid, he probably could have shrugged off Berserker's taunts easier, instead of getting all worked up. ] So— why?
[ There is progress in that he does absolutely nothing to push the other man away? If that can be considered progress, right... ]
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There's no protest as he's handled, only his pupils turn into reptilian slits.]
You're under my protection. I can't allow others to injure you.
[That's not quite true; he can't allow others to touch what is his. There's a clear distinction between appropriate touching (which Caster allows) and inappropriate, which includes injuries. Had the fight ended without spilling blood Archer wouldn't have to warn Alter.
The mess of new urges and instincts is too much to unravel on his own, when he tries to accept it all and not fight the changes.]
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Archer is right that carrying Caster when he's in every means capable of walking there himself, and not truly in a hurry would be a bad idea. There are care and help, and there is fussing over. Really, Caster is quite aware how much faster Archer could be, but he silently appreciates the decision of "Not To" anyway. ]
Is it's because I dwell in your guest room? [ There were times when he wondered if he didn't overstep. When he wondered if this is the time to leave. Even hospitality has its limits. Being an eternal guest isn't that much fun either. In the end, he always stayed. Or rather, he always returned. A deep breathe in, falling into the warmth of enchantment coat ] I don't buy it, Archer.
[ Just.. so you know ]
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Archer pinches the bridge of his nose. It's not that easy to explain, as he's as much at loss as is Caster. Figuring it out by himself is a pain in the backside.]
Whatever I'm turning into is quite protective of those I consider close. [a sigh. Look, he doesn't like all the changes he's going through. It sucks.] If Berserker didn't bite you I'd have no reason to warn him off.
[There's one more thing he needs to make clear, though.]
It's as much your house as it is mine.
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Caster's expression softens, his tone resigned. Archer's coat, fortunately, has a hood and he draws that up, because cold. ]
...it's something that was in you anyway. [ Chaldea was full of Servants, but even with the crowd, one could see how protective Archer was of their Master. They were equals out there as Servants, either as allies or enemies their role was the same. But that was shifted here, they've become something else and so the familiar categories shifted too.
Frankly speaking, Caster hates it. Archer's transformation didn't go as far as Berserker, yet still, he could challenge him on his own, without magic, weapons— on pure strength alone. So is that so? Now he is the one to be protected?
...but in a way he gets that. He was the protector, Shield of Ulster he knows what it is to step in and defend your pack. ]
We don't truly seek a fight— [ It's just something that... might happen when they meet. A possibility but no an absolute one. One pushes, the other hits back, it would be good to put brakes on, the moment when everything goes to shit is always easy to see in hindsight. They're both at fault here, Berserker provoked him, sure, but he also should have known better... He can't help but be so easily irritated, ugh. ] —there is no long-term enmity between me and him.
[ "I'm not in danger Archer, just so you know" Now that Lancer is part of the picture perhaps it will be easier to ignore Berserker, for the sake of the other ]
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I'm aware. [it's just a possibility, but Archer is well aware that such things happen too often, no matter his luck. It's better to make it obvious before something happens again.] I prefer to stay neutral towards him.
[The warning was meant for Lancer as well. Right now Archer has no idea how to help Caster deal with the loss.]
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The feud was between him and Berserker. Suddenly having so many more people drawn into it and affected by it— complicates things a lot. Granted, they both were too caught in the moment to even think about collateral damage. Consideration for Diarmuid was Berserker's responsibility, but it's on Caster that he didn't even though someone like Archer could get involved.
Both you and Berserker are high on some weird lizard brain as far as he's concerned, but it's now something he has to take into consideration.
But even if they make an effort, there is no guarantee. Both him and Berserker are changing, and they make them even more disagreeable. Who knows, maybe that Dream was prophetic? He won't give his darker side satisfaction of seeing him break, he will rather die than face defeat like that. Or maybe he will be the one to claim victory. Either way, it sounds like a pointless race to the grave.
If you're going to die to make it at least meaningful, on a right battlefield— ]
Let's move. [ His wounds won't heal themselves, unfortunately. ]
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—— [right, the sooner they get to Coven the better. While Caster's injuries don't seem very threatening, dragon's teeth are long and sharp. He could tear off Berserker's ear - or bite it off - if he was trying to seriously injure him instead of forcing him to release Caster.] Right. You still lost some blood.
[Now Archer leads them into small alley and through the darkened entrance that leads to a small courtyard between the buildings and another entrance that finally leads them onto the main streets and almost at the Coven's gate. A very useful shortcut.]
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It feels...odd to return back to Archer's house after what happened. Return together, that's it. The silence hangs between them and Caster can't wait to find himself in his room. Well, okay, maybe a bath first.
He's exhausted and just wants to put this everything away, everything behind him. But things today were not changes just between him and Diarmuid. Somewhere along the way, along these what it was... months of a careful coexistence something shifted and changed. He has no idea into what anymore. ]
I'll be taking the bathroom for a while. [ He announces first thing when they enter the cottage ] Don't get some stupid idea to wait for me with food.
[ With food and drinks and everything, like Archer does. Like how it becomes almost a daily habit, a part of the routine, that was easy to take for granted. Another proof of change— Caster understand that his irritation is not really his, and he should mind his words more. But falling into the old pattern of distance and antagonization is easy, and in a way? It's safe. ]
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How is it stupid?
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Naturally, his answer is very eloquent ]
Huh? [ You're saying something? ]
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Why is it stupid that someone cares for you?
[Sure, he could ignore it. Yet he can't because he does care. All the warnings about not getting attached can go to hell.]
Is it because you must be the one who defends?
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You're right, it's not. Sorry [ Not on itself. Caring and being cared for is a normal human need. A connection reserved for mortals, but that's what they are back to. Now he had to be an asshole one time too much. He pinches the bridge of his nose and leans on the door-frame. ]
I just hate feeling so powerless, so—
[ Vulnerable? Aimless? He shakes his head. Just putting it to words is hard, because he ever opened to this level only to those he truly cared about. Emer, Laeg, Ferdiad, Scathach— a handful of family and friends, really.
Archer is not wrong here. There is a drive to protect and defend, his people, his kin, his master, his friends. The frustration of not being able to do that... for not having most of that, it's all here. ]
Shouldn't have taken it out on you.
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Right. [it's unsettling to see Caster so subdued, so forlorn. On instinct Archer splays a hand on mage's chest. It may be a try to get him into the bathroom, it may be not.]
Not wishing for a human frailty—
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What can I say, it's been a while— [ When they last were human. But before he leaves he grabs at Archer's hand and keeps it in place. Swear on own's heart— maybe it's meant to show the honesty in the words that follow. ] I can be an ass sometimes, but I'm grateful for what you've done for me.
[ Even though it's not easy to have his ass saved twice by the guy he got a sort of rivalry going on with ]
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It's the real source of human strength and the greatest weakness at the same time.
He exhales a breath he's been holding without realizing and shakes his head.]
I know, Caster— no, Cú Chulainn.
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In some things they're not that different.
So before he gets to the whole bathing deed he makes a step forward to leave a surprisingly chaste kiss in the corner of Archers mouth. ]
Now I have an urge to call you "stupid" Emiya. [ Better go before he does. ]
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Archer isn't surprised Caster knows his. Since he met Berserker who admitted to know his True Name it was quite obvious. Both are different aspects of a legendary hero, someone whom Archer does trust. So there's no surprise, just a roll of eyes and - a bit exasperated - shake of head The only indication of his feelings shows in unconscious gesture of touching the corner of his mouth.]
Whatever.
[Caster has another thing coming if he thinks Archer will allow him to return to his typical tactic. While the living room will be empty, he'll be in Caster's own room. Two bottles of ale on the desk, and first aid supplies nearby.]
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"You really didn't have to" he wants to say, but that's just that old habit again. So he sits himself down onto the bed, the mattress giving under his weight easily. He slides the towel on his shoulders, mindful about the wound dressing. Healers had mostly closed it but it's still going to be a bit of time before it fully heals. ]
It's quite cozy here, isn't it? [ If he decides to move out, he might even miss that room. ] What's up?
[ "Why are you here? So it's not finished yet?" an unsaid question as his legs kick the air ]
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He just makes sure the wounds are dressed properly, and rewraps if needed. It's not what he's here for. Despite choosing his words carefuly earlier Archer isn't sure if it's the right question to ask.]
You've met Berserker in a Dream, right?
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Yeah, the night before they kicked us out of Coven. [ Bad timing it all was. ] It kinda went ugly, but we've behaved afterward.
[ Until...today. The shaky peace was held. It's not like they're on a warpath now, but it's probably better if they don't run into each other too much ]
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[Archer looks into distance, a slight frown forming on his face. He's had his own worries, knowing how petty Cú Chulainn can be, as well as knowing how he won't back out from a challenge.]
Both of you have similarities stemming from the same core, share same values, but each of you is his own person. Despite being an aspect of the same hero once known as Cú Chulainn you are someone different from Berserker or Lancer.
[A small shrug.] He was satisfied with my answer.
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Because it's a wise answer. [ Very diplomatic too. Caster would be satisfied with it as well ] There are probably moments in your story that would allow you to be summoned in a different class. From a different moment of your life.
[ Servants are not truly the people they were when alive, they're more like different chapters pulled out from those books and let loose. Stories personified, different aspects given weight.
He knows Archer is getting at something, but he has no intention of guessing what it is. Instead, he counters with a question of your own ]
What does it mean to you?
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