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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no subject
But she never made one, and she liked the idea of making or at least drinking tea inside of a snow house. It sounded toasty and nice.
Even if she didn't know how to make snowmen, snow houses could be nice.)
I see. Maybe...would you mind?
If we make a house, we can at least have a private space for tea.
no subject
( and hot tea sounds really nice right about now...
he glances around. they are currently along the sidewalk of a street, so it was a poor enough place to build an ice house. a trundling cart would probably flatten it before they made much headway. )
We should go to a different place, though. Where it is quieter and fewer people travel.
( without waiting, he strikes off in one direction down the street, looking for such a location. )
no subject
And enjoy tea in a place made with help...she perked up, looking young and hopeful.)
Oh where are you-
(Whoops, he was already moving. She made a soft sound, and started after him, trying not to slip on hidden ice.)
Are you thinking Haven...?
no subject
he thinks that kuro would like something like this. he would especially like brewing and serving the tea. that had been his dream, after all.
wolf had been searching with his eyes, as a lupine predator might, but her point is a good one. the haven had been given a rich blanket of snow overnight, and there was less foot-traffic through that area. ) It would be a good place. ( he begins to angle his path in that direction. ) It is not very far.
( he walks in silence a moment longer. wolf... is not so good at conversation. he'd never had much use for it. he can sense that the lapse in words is an awkward one, and he shifts uncomfortably as he sifts through the silt of his mind for something that didn't sound inane. )
Your change. It has lifted from you your childhood infirmity?
( if she was so frail before that she couldn't even go out into the cold weather... )
no subject
Or if she lost him...well, she could at least try and make the snow hut by herself. But it'd be a lonely tea time.
But thankfully she kept up, despite their height difference. The question did come at a surprise, even if she hadn't expected speech.)
Yes?
I discovered that shortly when I arrived. Actually...exactly when I arrived, more or less.
(As in...she landed on her face and didn't turn into a gushing mess right on the spot, as she normally would have.)
no subject
wolf is a short man, though, and he is keeping her within the sphere of his awareness. it would not be of use if he left her behind, as he's already agreed to this. )
Hm... ( he is thoughtful for a moment. ) It is fortunate for you, that your strength came to you so soon. Other... side-effects of these transformations can take time, and sometimes seem to develop when most inconvenient.
no subject
Plus, if he left her behind, he wouldn't get fresh tea.)
That...seems true enough. I'm still worried about breaking things by accident but...it's better this way. I've the strength to go through the transformations without collapsing for days if not weeks at a time.
no subject
but aefenglom and the freedom to discover such things has changed him ever-so-slightly, and he is of the opinion that doing something that would end in a hot cup of tea in this sort of weather was better than doing nothing at all. )
You have now what would often take a good deal of time to develop. So it will take time to grow accustomed to it.
( their pace has been brisk enough that they've made their way through the busier streets of the city toward the sleepier Haven district. it doesn't take wolf long to slow to a halt once they arrive. )
Here should serve. ( it's a quiet place full of as-yet untrodden snow. )
no subject
You think then, that I may grow stronger...?
(That's not something she wants to think about. Hoo boy. But at least they have a good place to build their little snow house. She peers around, and nods to herself.)
Mm. Should we build first, or should I get the tea set and then we start?
(They're doing this together it seems.)
no subject
( aren't they always growing stronger, in some ways? it might not be the simplest or most obvious one, but it is by human (or perhaps he should say, monster) nature to continue to change and grow. even wolf, as "set-in-his-ways" of a creature as he is, has changed quite a bit since arriving here. ) Even if it is just you gaining the ability to control your strength, in that, you will be growing stronger.
( he thinks a moment. ) One thing at a time. ( he approaches the blank slate of snow, slipping kusabimaru and its sheath from the place where it is tied at his waist. he uses the end of the sheathed sword to draw a fairly large circle on the ground. afterwards, he carefully stows the sword in a place where he can keep an eye on it a short distance away. ) A guideline. We build here, and as the snow gets higher, we slowly cant the wall in towards the center.
no subject
She isn't against that particular idea at all.)
If it means less broken doors, I'll be satisfied.
(It's mostly a joke. Really! But Caren follows, watching him curiously as he draws a circle. That was a good start but...Caren nodded, and backed off to gather some snow. It felt soft, and cold as she held it in her hands. Which wasn't much; maybe enough to make a large snowball.)
So shall we get started...?
no subject
she retrieves some snow, and he looks disheartened at the large snowball. it would not be very fast, to build it like that. he looks back to the circle he had drawn, thinking. he seems to have an idea. he walks back to where he had left his sword, picking it up and returning to the circle. he kneels down, holding the sheath in both hands, lengthwise, and uses the blade to push the snow towards where he had drawn the line. he does this as he continues around the circle, and they end up with a fairly sizable pile of snow all around the perimeter of where he had drawn. )
It is something to start with.
( he sets kusabimaru aside in the snow, and he begins to build up one of the walls, molding it with his hands. it's more difficult than he would have thought; he has no sensation in his prosthetic hand, so he has a harder time sensing what he is doing with it.
he looks to her, gesturing that she could do the same. )
no subject
But she waits, and watches him, wondering what he's doing and...oh. Interesting.
She watches intently, trying to see what he was doing, and understand. Looked much quicker then her just grabbing piles of snow and plopping them around the circle.
Quietly, Caren nods, and copies him, molding and building up one of the walls of snow. She's slow at first, but it quickens, as she gets used to it. It also helps she has too hands.)
no subject
Now, we must build the walls in towards the center, but slowly. So they do not collapse.
( it's hard to demonstrate in the moment, but he tries, molding the snow carefully by hand to begin the slow slant towards the center. )
no subject
Mm. It needs to be able to support its own wait.
(Caren watched him for a moment, before trying to mimic him. She scooped snow into her hand, and used the other to pack and carefully try to slant it. There might be a lot of patting going on.)
Like so?
no subject
( he pauses and watches her closely, studying her movements to see they did not stray too far from his own. he is silent for a moment, and then he gives a slow nod, seemingly content. )
Mm. Just do not force it. It must be gradual.
( he continues to do the same. even with two people, it takes some time and care — in comparison, building the wall was easy. but soon the dome of the igloo becomes more apparent, and they are close to closing it off completely. there is a hole in the top a little smaller than an average dinner plate. but with the way it's shaped... he gestures for her to pause. )
How about you go inside, so you can help mold the final part from the inside? ( he gestures to the small aperture they left open so they could enter the snow hut. )
no subject
(Her hands slow, and are more careful under his direction. They actually worked well together...which was more a show how good he was at giving directions to other people really. She just quietly follows suit until he tells her to go inside.
After a moments thought, she nodded, and made to move away from the portion of the ceiling she was working on.)
I'll come out once I'm finished.
(Which won't be long. It's a small space, if needing to be packed carefully. She slid in, and disappeared-but for her hands that showed around the dinner plate sized hole, that was soon dwindling in size.)