DiplomaTea | Grand Opening! | Mingle Post

[rollfordiplomacy]

Who: Any and all!
When: December 1st.
Where: The Haven.
What: Grand Opening of a new, mirrorbound owned shop!
Warnings: None.


DiplomaTea, a Florist and Tea Shop, is located on a street corner in The Haven. Today is its Grand Opening, complete with festivities to mark the occasion. The shop has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, though a gothic aesthetic permeates throughout. Skulls, thorns, and lace are in much of the decor.

Above the main entrance hangs a dyed elk skull, decorated with white carnations and tea leaves. Entering leads one to a tidy shop, flower arrangements filling every possible surface. The air within is warm and scented by whichever section one might be in. Even the smells filling the shop are well organized and complimentary.



The floor plan includes plenty of space to walk through and admire the floral displays. Double doors are locked open, leading out to a covered, outdoor porch. Many are sitting to enjoy a cup of tea. The whole shop is pleasantly heated, the porch space a middle ground between the warm interior and cold, rainy streets beyond. A small stage accommodates a single performer with a compact instrument. Live music is playing throughout the opening day. Inside the shop is a long bar to take orders for fresh brewed tea and to make sales.



I. Enchant me by the Mistletoe

Over the door frames and upon the tea tables are a peculiar little plant, wrapped in ribbon. Being near to these cause a certain reaction. It's not so much a compulsion as an idea. An idea to kiss or hold the person nearest to you. Whether platonic or romantically depends on your ideas of them.

If they are a perfect stranger, well, it's likely to fall romantic. The magic is funny like that, keen to fluster!

It is only an idea, lasting so long as one remains near to the mistletoe. Or... until the idea is so indulged. Guests are more than welcome to take the enchanted bundle along with them, the effects should last a couple days. The staff have more on hand to set out in replacement... and magically woven ribbons of their own, which block such ideas from forming in their own minds. They don't need such distractions! It's a busy enough day as it is!

II. Illusory Flowers

A Grand Opening special! Roses and lily flowers with peculiar properties. Everett grows all the flowers stocking the shop himself and his magic mixes with the witch he's bonded to, Sokie. Some of her illusion magic affected this batch, in fun and often times unpredictable ways.

These flowers are still closed, waiting for the right moment to bloom. They are being given away freely, a single flower at a time, both inside and out front of the shop. When they pass hands, the petals open to blossom, and a small illusion springs forth!

Never harmful, but always surprising. Sometimes the illusion is visual, sometimes with a sound or a smell to accompany. Rarely do the aspects seem well matched, fire cracker like eruptions may leave behind the smell of ocean water. Small, ghostly creatures often springing forth, as if born from the flower itself. There's a wide variety that can manifest, even Everett's not sure of all the possibilities.

No matter what it is, it fades from the senses within a minute. All that's left then is a lovely, if ordinary flower.

III. A Springtide Blessing

The shop has much to offer with flower arrangements, but the tea blends are the real centerpiece on display. Everett prides himself on his perfect flavor combinations, which he assures have as much significance to them as any flower. For the grand opening, there are three specialty blends. Blessings of the Springtide, he calls them. All are available for tastings and purchase.




a. Adelheid's Heart

A floral, sweet tea. This is served with lemon and fresh honey, pairing well with tea biscuits. Easy to drink, even for those without a fondness for tea. Refreshing and said to always uplift one's spirits.

b. Enki's Ambition

A sharp, minty tea. Though it is served warm, it leaves a strangely cold feeling when swallowed. Soothing, all the same, and very brisk. Any congestion of the nose or throat is sure to be remedied by a cup of this. The ideal tea when in need of focus and clarity.

c. Ardric's Warmth

This tea is an absolute kick in the teeth. It's harsh and bitter. There's a spice to it that builds on itself, making it more and more difficult to drink in time. The caffeine is highly concentrated, there's no getting to sleep after a cup of this. Everett will reward a free tin of it to anybody who can get down an entire cup in the store. Most people cough or wretch after a single sip, a sure sign that it's been well crafted. It's said to burn out illness and boost one's fortitude against curses.

IV. Warmth in more than Tea

To mark the occasion, there's more than tea blends on offer this day. In two warmed barrels is a bounty of apple cinnamon cider. One with alcohol and one without. The former isn't very high content, just enough to warm the belly and relax with.

This is served throughout the day, but becomes particularly tempting once the sky darkens in the afternoon. Overcast weather settles above the city, then. Rain will begin pattering down over the covered porch come evening, which is bright with lantern light and tea candles set out on the tables.

Grab a seat, if you can, it's the perfect hour to watch people go by or cuddle up with a companion. That or merely pop in to escape the rain, warm up before going the rest of the way home.

All prompts are open to any and all to play around with! The Grand Opening is from morning on the 1st of December well into the night. OOC Questions can be asked on the permanent locations post or Everett can be asked ICly in his TL here. DiplomaTea's permanent open post available through the Location Page is open to anybody who wishes to use the setting in the future. Have fun and tag around!

Comments

Everett Vaughan | Faun | OTA

[rollfordiplomacy]

i. (Petty, Petty) Springtide Tradition

Might you be looking for a gift? [Everett inquires to someone looking over the wares. The faun reaches to pluck a single rose from a display, holding it gently in his hands]

Gifts given on holiday are seen as obligation, to my people. If one must give a gift, we give our closest and dearest the smallest gesture possible. A single flower, a ribbon, a hand written note... so that they need not return a large gesture. [he then gestures to a large flower display, rather gaudy in its extravagance]

We give our rivals and enemies large gift, of which they will surely despise. We'll customize arrangements to sets off certain allergies, attract spiders, those sorts of minor annoyances. Provided you know thy enemy, of course. [he's proud of this petty tradition]

ii. Hidden Wares

[There's a rumor that Everett has some items he only sells upon request. Fresh rolled cigarettes and cigars, specifically. He's not stocking them on shelves for a variety of reasons, first of all being not wanting anybody too young to run off with them. It is easy enough to grab his attention and inquire, if that's of interest!]

May I help you find something? [he'll need to appraise a person for appropriate age, anybody he thinks is still in their teen years isn't going to get ushered to the backroom, that's for sure.]

iii. A Springtide Blessing

Have a spot of tea, my dear. These three are Springtide traditional brews! Each it's own blessing. [He will present the three boxes on the table; one white with a green ribbon, one gold with a blue ribbon, one red... with a red ribbon. He opens and offers the first to smell, the blend floral and fruity,]

Something light and sweet, perhaps? Good for the spirit. [he will open the next, shedding the blue ribbon to offer that to smell. That one is all mint and eye widening zest.]

For focus! Haha, or to clear out a stuffy throat. [the last one he doesn't open. He just pats a hand over the box, speaking cheerfully]

This one will hurt you.

iii

[ua_duibhne]

[In truth, Diarmuid had originally only stopped in to find somewhere quiet to ease the throbbing in his head for a short while but the rich, botanical scent in the air made him find a table to actually sit down. God knows he needs it; the equivalent of a small shot of his Bonded's venom- taken in through too many, too careless kisses- is still working its way through his system. He'd hoped that a walk in the brisk, wintry air to the market would take the edge off but no such luck.

Still, there's an upside to it all; not only is Diarmuid familiar with the owner of this establishment, but he's a welcome face. A little animated for the dull pulsing behind his left temple, perhaps, but welcome nonetheless, and he manages a warm smile of his own.]

Anything for a hangover? [Forgive him for not being entirely honest about his ailment. It's believable enough; with that messy ponytail and panda eyes combination, he certainly looks as though he's had a rough night.] It's good to meet you again, Sir Vaughan. I see you've been busy.

i

[quickwhip]

[ There's one Trevor Belmont just minding his business and looking around at everything this new place has to offer here because why not?? When suddenly he's approached by the faun and... yeah. Alright so... not what he was really expecting to hear in terms of gifts and all? But hell, the thought gets him to pause for a moment before he gives a short chuckle under his breath. ]

Can't really say I have any enemies here to send flowers to. [ Yet?? Not that he would ever. ] Do you... sell some of these tea to make... not here?

ii

[curruid_coinchenn]

[ Berserker comes in sometime later in the evening. It's not really his sort of spot, to say the least, but he knows the shopkeep. Maybe he'll have something he's interested in. Everett seems like the kind of person to have ... unique offerings. ]

Cigarettes, if you have them. I'm tired of rolling my own. [ A beat. ] ...And maybe a gift for someone.

[ He might be feeling a little guilty for accidentally poisoning Diarmuid. Again. ]

iii

[digiorno]

. . . That's the worst advertisement I've ever heard.

[And yet it's working. He peers at the box owlishly, clearly intrigued.]

Are attack teas also a Springtide traditional brew? What blessing does pain bestow? [Smartass.]

III

[hippocarnival]

[Yuya feigns more appraise than he normally would be at the first two--he likes tea well enough, but he'll also probably drink whatever's handed to him and they both fall under 'smell nice', if strong.

But he just stares at the final box, dumbfounded.] Okay, I have to ask, why's it hurt?

tradition, please teach him the tradition of pettiness

[battlebound]

[ A gift? Steak finds himself stopping by Everett as he comes to a rest between rounds of holding out flowers to strangers, staring at the various iterations of gifts. There's plenty of giftgiving traditions on Tierra, but short of playing the charming prince for single girls on Valentine's Day (a task he almost feels like he's repeating here, at Everett's request), Steak doesn't have that many causes to actually participate in one.

Who would he even gift? Red Wine? God forbid. Gingerbread maybe, but she — much like he — would rather spend that time dealing with actual work.

But he listens to Everett's explanation, raised brow giving way to a thoughtful scratch of his chin.

Know thy enemy?

Perhaps that's a tradition he could get behind. He still owes Red Wine for spiking his drink with mustard, after all. ]

... Do you have any wine?

iii!

[usurpers]

[ he’s tired. eren is tired when he shouldn’t be— physiologically, he should! brumation comes on strongly when fire dragons are in their opposite element. for all he knew it took nearly all day to get here (it felt like all day). something about a blizzard coming next week, too? he might as well slip into a coma and come back when it all melts. perhaps the completion of this dragon’s changes has caused his body to react much more poorly to the temperatures than it used to; the combination of chill and rain completely detonates his usual functions.

when it’s finally his turn, as the faun speaks to him about the teas, eren could only stare blankly, eyes fixated on a point almost past him as he freezes for one minute, two, three— then a slow blink happens to show that he’s still alive. his tail seeks out heat, a flat group of needle-like spines pin back harmlessly as it sluggishly, very sluggishly, begins to coil around the host’s hoof. it’s easy to step out of, he really is that slow! it’s just . . . !!! the rest of him. he’s hunches over in his seat, carefully beginning to raise his knees to his chest and make his limbs disappear under a heavy poncho. ]

What [ pause, inhale ] kind of . . . Hurt.

[ he asks, with frequent pauses in his words and a lack of making it sound like a question. the other cups were as effective as drying yourself with a soaked cloth in a flood. his tattooed runes were using too much energy to last a single day. if he needs something— it’s something deadly.

like literally stepping into a fireplace, which he’s considering. ]

i.

[hearthebell]

[The pale and shabby-looking young witch startles slightly when he's addressed. He seems, fully, as though he entered this shop with no expectation of being approached or addressed; it's an odd affectation, considering he's definitely been in public enough in his life to know of these conventions.

He stares warily at the rose, as if questioning whether or not it's just a rose, or if something is going to spring out of it with fangs and claws, and seems to relax a bit as Everett begins to explain how gifting works where he's from. One sure way to put L more at ease is to reveal more information at any given time than he is, arming him, giving him something to work with while he's allowed to keep his own secrets just a little longer.]

It's foolish, not to know your enemies.

[He says so with jarring somberness. It could pass as a great joke if his features weren't so rigid and staring.]

Must they be merely minor annoyances? I suppose... there must be a limit to this sort of thing.

[And a way to break it, naturally.]

III

[overworker]

[As someone who absolutely adores her tea, she knew she'd enjoy her time here. The fact that it was a dear friend opening the business just made that all the better. It has a lively and warm atmosphere and she likely couldn't feel more at home if she tried. Listening to the lineup, she inhales the aroma in the air with a smile on her face.]

These teas really smell delightful, you've truly outdone yourself.

[Well. You know. Except maybe that last one. Towa isn't usually one for pain but she can't say that she isn't at least a bit curious.]

Although I'm a bit afraid to ask what "blessing" that last one entails.

riffs off iii a lil' because booooy look at all the comments u got!!

[faithlikeaseed]

[It's only once he's off-shift--precious near to closing time--that Myr sidles over to his Bonded and drops himself in a nearby seat. (With, of course, his usual care; because otherwise he'd drop himself on the floor by missing it.]

What's this about a tea that's going to hurt me? [he inquires, all bright amusement.

It's been a good evening and tired as he might be, he's still riding the energy of the crowds.]

i. (Petty, Petty) Springtide Tradition

[futhark]

｢ ooc: hope it ain't too late... ｣

[ Caster listens to the story as he sips Adelheid's Heart tea and his grin just... grows wider and wider. Until he laughs heartily. Spirits are definitely lifted here. ]

I could get behind such a gift-giving tradition! It's so clever— [ And awful sometimes. Of course at least until you receive a burden of large gift to return. ] Do you plan to follow it with the upcoming Modranicht?

Aziraphale | Witch | OTA

[wiggleon]

I. Enchant me by the Mistletoe & Illusory Flowers
[There’s no way he was going to miss this opening, particularly not after Everett oh so nicely helped him find a location for his own bookshop so they would basically be business-neighbors.

Aziraphale doesn’t know much about plants. He likes them a fair amount, and he tried to have some in his bookshop before as he’d always thought they would brighten up the place… but they always ended up dying on him. Probably because he had a pretty bad tendency to get caught up in his books and kind of forget about them, but still.

So, he gets curious about all the plants around, a smile on his lips as he ‘ooh’s and ‘aahs’ at the little flowers causing such beautiful illusions for everyone when they open. He’s always worn his heart on his sleeve so it’s easy to tell how excited he is about all the little spells and enchantments. So excited, and so distracted that he’s really not paying attention to the plants on the tea tables, and the compulsion they bring.]

These are wonderful, aren’t they? I’ve always admired people with a green thumb.

II. A Springtide Blessing
[Aziraphale decided on the Adelheid's Heart first, though he’ll probably end up tasting every tea as the night progresses. He adores tea almost as much as he adores good food, and he’s not shy about showing it: he lets out a small hum of pleasure on his first taste.]

Oh this is just delicious, I insist you must try the Adelheid’s heart if you haven’t yet.

flowers!

[battlebound]

[ At least Steak isn't the only one here who is no connoisseur of plants. His Attendant's wife had an entire garden of blossoms flourishing but he still knows little more than roses and lilies. But he has a job to do, and that job includes handing out the very flowers over which this stranger is enthusing.

A moment later, Aziraphale finds a lily held out in front of him, the (apparently) young man holding a variety of others in tentacles which sprout from his waist, a pair of horns stretched tall above his head. ]

From the owner.

Wataru Kurenai | Witch | OTA

[kivatteru]

i; background music

[ Having been one of the first people Everett pulled into his business before it opened, Wataru is finally elated to be part of this establishment. He likes nearly everything about it - from the cozy setting to the decorations and scents. A place like this one really does give him the feeling he's in a whole different world and yet it's fine, he's not worried or afraid of anything because this is what his friend created with his own efforts.

The unique thing about his job here is that he can provide the music on occasion and direct requests. When it's his turn to put in some relaxing atmosphere, he collects his father's violin and connects his mind to his heart, eventually guiding the instrument along with some few songs of his increasing repertoire. Thanks to learning more than a few things at the Coven, he's capable to radiate the same amounts of soothing vibes as people might have felt back at the masquerade.

Got a specific request? He's available for that and some praising and chatting if you're the friendly type. ]

ii; flower & tea

[ Other than the shop's resident musician, he's also your usual server. Whether you're looking at the flowers or sitting at a table to get tea, he shows up with a little bow and a slightly sheepish smile. ]

Good day. What can I help you with?

iii; kissy plants

[ Two things can happen while he's distractedly standing by the mistletoe: either you or him fall first into the temptation to give the other some affection. However, Wataru is visibly hesitant, cheeks colored pink, and has a difficult time making eye contact. ]

Is... there something on my face? [ Pretty lame way to start a conversation, but it's either that or he's tempted to reach for the person's hand. ]

iv; closing time

[ Even with his body begging for rest, Wataru chose to stay and clean up before close.

He'll give any other employee still in the shop a tired smile, but will also perks up if a customers walks in and, with polite patience, he softly tells them, ]

Good evening. The shop is closing soon, but there's still a bit of time left.

v; wilkdcard

[ Any different prompts in mind? Hit me up over at gaiamemories or via PM for plotting! ]

iii.

[rollfordiplomacy]

[sorry, Wataru, you might get a real funny idea about your boss, as he approaches curiously. He does have such nice lips, doesn't he?

... The staff was supposed to be immune to the mistletoe charms. Rich didn't listen to Everett's explanation of the enchanted ribbons. Wataru seems like he lost his. Everett quirks his head.]

You're looking a bit red, my dear. In need of a break?

ventus | turnskin | ota

[callmeven]

[ a - mistletoe ]

[he'd been lured inside by a combination of the chill that seeped in past his fur and the sweet smell of flowers and tea. ventus is curious by nature and learning that this is the grand opening has him eager to explore more of the cafe / shop. he takes a seat at one of the tables with the mistletoe sitting in the middle and he leans over to give it a curious sniff.]

It smells nice... I wonder what kind of plant it is?

[ b - illusory flowers ]

Oh- Thank you!

[he says with a grateful smile when he's handed the flower, but his attention is drawn away when it starts to bloom right then and there. he's enraptured by the little illusion of what looks like dandelions being ruffled by an imaginary breeze. it lasts all of a moment before the scent of iron hits his sensitive nose and he immediately drops the flower to cover his affronted sense.] Ugh!

[ c - tea time ]

Mhm...

[he's sitting outside staring down a perfectly innocuous cup of tea - ardic's warmth - already put off by the strong scent of it that seems to burn his senses. but when he'd been told the tea worked well to boost against curses...

he thinks of vanitas and his growing magic. it wouldn't hurt to be prepared.

which is easy to say, but trying to drink the tea is another tall task on its own.]

[ d - wildcard ]

[hmu with some prompts ven is a blonde akita turnskin]

a

[lightblooming]

[ Aqua was doing some shopping herself. She wanted to purchase ingredient for dinner that night. However, the sight of Ven is what catches her attention - along with the sight of the mistletoe. ]

Ven. [ She greets with a smile. ] ... I've never seen it before, either. I wonder if there's some importance to it.

[ People don't usually just hang up plants??? ]

Rich Goranski | Dragon | OTA!

[firewalled]

Flower arranging? Just like in my Japanese animes!

[Getting this business ready for opening had taken a lot of hands, and Rich's own hands... well, claws... had been one of the many pairs hired for the task. Rich has been happy to put in the effort to help out someone as earnest and kind as Everett, and the job offer certainly wasn't one he wanted to turn down. It's not much in line with his usual talents, but it's a cozy store, and relaxed enough that he feels open to learning.

He's picked up on bouquet arranging as his first new interest. He already had a particular... interest in flower languages (as Myr would be sure to attest to), and arranging flowers to convey a sort of story was inspiring, creative, and certainly relaxing.

A few of his pieces are set up on a counter, while he can be found behind it, dressed quite dapperly in a scarlet vest and slightly ruffled shirt that appears to be the uniform. He's paused his formal arrangements to make flower crowns, which he's offering to the younger patrons that enter the shop. (He's quite fond of his own.)

It's a lot of work, but no matter what, when a customer walks in, he's sure to pause and offer a wide smile.]

You want one of these too? They're a special opening day gift.

Falling head over heels isn't as romantic as it sounds

[Unfortunately for Rich, he can't always stay behind the counter. With so many customers in need of a warm drink, he sometimes is delegated to serving orders to the customers... and that's one talent that he's not as naturally gifted with. It's likely to see him stumbling, spilling hot water or sugar when trying to pass over the cups, and stammering over the names of the teas or ingredient lists when taking orders.

If you're particularly unlucky, you may literally bump into him trying to wobble his way back to the kitchen area. Hopefully you only get a splash of water or tea on your clothing, but regardless, Rich is obviously mortified, dropping his tray on a table nearby and desperately grabbing for towels.]

Oh shit, shit! I'm so sorry, I really should be more careful. You're not burned, right?

Fiction: a perfect excuse to project all your relationship troubles onto your protagonist

[When Rich is on his breaks, he often finds a place to sit and think for a while. He certainly has a lot to think about, with the recent... disappearance he's dealing with. It makes his heart sink to realize how badly he misses Michael, and it sinks even lower with the guilt of wishing he was back here when he shouldn't be wishing that on anyone. His stomach often feels wobbly and nauseous, and the brooch in his pocket leaves a heavy weight, along with Justine's necklace.

Sitting and moping by himself can't be good for business, though, so before too long, Rich decides to pour his extra feelings into his writing instead, hunched over his notebook. He's apparently working quite hard on something, only pausing to take sips of his tea... and despite it being the fabled Ardric's Warmth, he barely sniffles after each swallow. Maybe his dragon senses are just used to more spice and heat, or maybe he's just really focused on his work. Take a peek?

Or, perhaps, take note of the mistletoe he occasionally mistakenly sits under? Maybe a hug would help warm Rich's heart...]

three: the sad about boys prompt

[digiorno]

[Giorno said hello to Rich when he first arrived and asked the usual questions — do you work here, what do you do, give me a flower crown (arguably not a question). He's not one to make friends easily, but he likes Rich, thinks he's interesting, and so keeps an eye on him as the afternoon wears on.]

[It's easy enough to catch that pattern. Something's not right. After some time, he levers himself out of his comfortable seat and wanders over to Rich, pretending not to notice his stupid joints hurting. The mistletoe doesn't particularly worry him; he tucks his chin over Rich's shoulder as soon as he's sat down, considering what he's writing with calm nosiness. Everything on earth is his business, thanks.]

You don't look happy. [Oh. Well, there it is, apparently.]

viren, ota

[bloodwit]

i. warmth in more than tea

[ it's hellishly wet outside.

viren had been prepared by dressing in... more layers than usual, brought an umbrella with him in case luck cursed him. he's had time to grow accustomed to this weakness. he has his own mug of cider, contented in the warmth that the shop offers. but as to the tea candles: the more flames the better, he's found. alas, he may be an employee, but he's no satisfactory customer service.

he leans over to someone's occupied table. and pretty much unceremoniously plucks one of the candles from that surface, settles it near to his own. ]

[ this is a little rude, though. he should probably be a little nicer in a professional setting. so, added without even looking at who he may thieved from, ]

If it bothers you so much -

[ he gestures to an empty chair; inviting as his words may objectively be, his tone is still cold. ]

- you may join me.

ii. afterward

[ while it's a flower shop, the varieties of plantlife are -- more plentiful than any he's ever seen in one.

it's nearer to around closing time, fewer customers milling about, that viren becomes... curious. perhaps he incorrectly thinks he has just a moment of seclusion in a deeper corner of the shop, when he draws out a glass container that's been fitted with a grated top. inside flit a few glowing butterflies. he carefully lifts the top, allowing one of a bright orange hue to flutter to a cluster of flowers.

he watches it perch with a focused intensity, its wings slowly opening and closing. but for the most part, he's quiet, expecting to remain uninterrupted. ]

iii. wildcard

( come to me... )

II

[hippocarnival]

[Yuya needs to shuffle out himself, soon, but he's kept a mental note of the employees he recognizes and makes a plan to pass around each of them to cheer for the new establishment. Show a little support.

He weaves around the flowers until he spots Viren. And a butterfly, which proceeds to catch his eyes immediately because it's bright and exciting and that's just how he is.]

Hey, Viren. [Too bad he can't keep quiet.]

Lady Maria | Witch | OTA

[whomthebelltolls]

[1: Hold My Flower]

[There's a Hunter in the shop. Honestly, what she is wearing might just be more of a disguise than the enchanted masks from the Masquerade before. After all, she's so very rarely out of her trousers and in to an actual skirt. What's more, she doesn't have her hair gathered back into the usual ponytail; instead it's gathered onto the back of her head into a bit of a loose bun, held there by a small hair ornament, the faded gold and dark stone sticking out against her silvery-white hair. It can't hide her height, which is the most dead of giveaways, but it sure might be a contrast to how she's usually seen.

She pauses before going deeper into the shop, however, enjoying the sweet fragrance of flowers, and immediately making her way toward the most pungent. Her sense of smell isn't as good as it used to be, and there's no reek of blood and beast upon the air here, but she's still drawn to the most strongly-scented of flowers. Maybe she'll pick up some ideas for her garden. She will definitely pick up some of that alcoholic cider, though, and carry it close to her as she browses around the flowers.

She has to duck under some of the hanging flowers to move around, so she isn't paying attention to the mistletoe hanging about.] Hm... wisteria...? Ah - yes? [Hello, person who is next to her, inexplicably while she wasn't paying attention. She starts a little, having to hold the cup up quite far to not accidentally spill it down onto whoever she just almost turned right into. Oops.

Also that might've just dipped some stalks right into it.]

[2: All I Can Do Is Just Pour Some Tea For Two]

[Enki's Ambition. Warm on the front end, frosty on the back. Sort of the opposite of Maria herself, but she finds herself enjoying the sharp, chilly, menthol effect. Even if it makes her nose run.

Sniff.

Hey, she can't complain that much when every sniff brings a whiff of the nice flowers with it, but it sure is clearing things up nicely in her sinuses. She sits, quietly, in the corner with her cup of tea, at a table alone, though one is perfectly free to walk up and engage a conversation while she's there.

After some time, though, she stands and heads back to the counter. She has a curiosity.] I have seen a couple people's faces after trying one of the teas here. ... Which of them is so strong people have been choking?

[She may be talking to an employee, or to just a random patron. Her last tea was quite good, after all.

Sniff. Gods, it's like being a child at Cainhurst again, after coming in from playing in the snow.]

[3: Wildcard!]

[HMU for anything. Maria's gonna be there for a couple hours. Sipping tea and cider, enjoying the flowers, probably going home with some nice cuttings to see what she can do with growing some of her own.]

2

[digiorno]

[How Giorno managed to insinuate himself alongside Maria without her noticing while crying is anyone's guess. He's not crying loudly, but he's crying redly, scowling down at the cup of tea in his hands as he blinks away tears.]

[Let it be known he's still fucking drinking it, though. He's no coward.]

The Ardric one. [His voice sounds thick. From the crying. This tea better meet him out back—] I'd like to see you do better.

Momiji Sohma | Puca | ota

[selfishwish]

1. Mistletoe

[It's grown cold enough out-of-doors that huddling somewhere warm would be welcome, even if it weren't for the excitement of a new spot opening up in the Haven! And, since Momiji takes a certain pride in getting all over the city, obviously he has to be in line early to pop into the shop and see what's what!

So, he takes up residence at one of the tables with a mug of cider, leaning his chair far back to admire the decorations in between sips. In front of him, there's a small stack of papers bounds up with a ribbon, covered in scribbled notes in what look like three different hands--notes he's supposed to be putting into some order for work--but they're not nearly as interesting at the moment as people-watching.

It's all fine and cozy, while he has the table to himself. But, as the day's crowd starts to roll in, he'll happily wave over strangers and familiar faces alike to pull up a chair. Or, if someone nearby looks like they've picked out something particularly interesting to drink or to take home, he might just have no choice but slide his seat all the way over to investigate!]

Wow, that smells so good! Everything here does, kinda, but that's really nice!

Do you know what's in it?

2. Browsing

[But, eventually, he does have something to pull him away from just lounging for the rainy day in, and he hops up to peer at all the displays behind the tea counter, craning his head far back to squint at the top-most shelf and then all the way down.

Tea's supposed to be good for relaxing, right? And getting to sleep? Which sounds like a very good idea, lately. He's never been an insomniac, normally, but especially since the last full moon...

Well. It's been harder to stay bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, as it were.]

Hmmmmmm.

Think this one'd be good for bedtime?

[He asks at last, holding up a small tin of some blend he'd picked up mostly at random. Maybe he's bothered to pick out someone who looks like they're one of the shop's staff, but honestly the odds are just as good that he'll ask some other poor guest who catches his eye. Maybe they know about tea stuff, too!]

It seems pretty relaxing, right? [He asks, holding it up close. Sorry, you're going to have to smell it, now.]

3. Wildcard!

[Whatever else, if you have something in mind! HMU.]

1

[juzubeads]

[Since Yuya had expressed interest, for some reason, in meeting his family, Kyo had figured he may as well get this over with. Hence him figuring he'd drag them out somewhere so they could meet. Or, more like letting them drag him, but still.

He opens the door, scrunching his nose initially at the strong scent, not that it is bad but he does have a sensitive nose. He easily spots Momiji when the other waves at them, gesturing for Yuya to follow as he makes his way to the table, sitting down and glancing at the menu options.]

Hey. I haven't been here before. Is this place new or have I just missed it with mostly figuring meals at home?

Connor | Merrow | OTA

[plasticasshole]

Under the mistletoe

[Connor has no interest in tea really, since he can't drink it. But he likes Everett well enough, and he needs to get out of the house for a little while anyway. He stands underneath the mistletoe without really meaning to, and finds himself drawn to the nearest person. A kiss later and he steps back, looking surprised with himself.]

I'm sorry- that was a strange urge.

[He knows nothing about mistletoe, so it doesn't occur to him that it might be to blame.]

Hanging out

[Connor quite enjoys the cosy atmosphere here, so even if he can't drink anything he curls up at a table and watches the rain fall. He'd quite like some company... he looks melancholy as he looks out of a window, thinking of Justine and wishing she was still here with him. Something to distract him from his thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Sometimes he sketches the people who walk past. Drawing was something he did with Justine, and it makes him feel closer to her even if she can't be here. He's very accurate in his drawings, the way you'd expect from a machine, but he tries to add his own touches to things. Whatever he notices first tends to get accentuated slightly, and in his sketches people often are seen smiling.]

Hanging Out

[rollfordiplomacy]

[Everett was glad that Connor could stop by. Though he'd greeted the Merrow when he first arrived, the shop was a bit too busy to socialize right then. With some crowds clearing out in the evening and none of the other staff on break, Everett can take a moment to step aside.

The sketches certainly catch his eye. Lovely, technical drawings, just his style really.]

I hadn't colored you for artist, my lad. May I join you?

Lorenz | Faun | OTA

[bergamotrose]

I - Mistletoe

[DiplomaTea. Even the name had an uncommon charm. Lorenz found himself beaming when he entered, delighted by the scents and the displays bursting forth with summertime flowers. Despite the dreariness outside, he could almost feel the warmth of the days under the Harpstring Moon-- the summertime months that warmed the spirit and filled the silos with grain.

He was so enamored that he didn't notice the tiny plant hanging above him, just barely out of reach from his antlers.]

It's wonderful here, isn't it? [he declared, reaching out to grab the nearest person with his hands. His eyes were bright with mirth.] I don't believe I've ever been to a teahouse quite like this!

II - Springtide Blessing

[The aromas from the teas were invigorating-- so much so that Lorenz had difficulty choosing. Tea was more than a mere pleasure for Lorenz. It was a way of life. Only a person with a certain sense and sentimentality could pick the right blend for a guest and brew it appropriately, and Lorenz prided himself on possessing such skills.

A person's taste in tea was as individual as their personalities, and in many ways a host could learn more about their guests by the tea they chose. While Lorenz was sure he would sample all of the specialty blends before the night was out, due to mere curiosity about the host, he started with Enki's Ambition.

The essence of the blend felt invigoratingly sharp on his tongue, but the refreshing smoothness of the feel as it went down was wholly unexpected.]

My! [He said in hushed tones, brows lifting and eyes widening in his awe.] The man really has outdone himself!

under the mistletoe is the only appropriate way to meet

[battlebound]

[ Steak isn't paying all that much attention to the decor above his head either, though in his case, it's mostly because he's just trying to get through the door and finds himself running into...

Well.

Into this. Into his hands being taken and a lot of effusive praise thrown at the shop itself. There's a moment of shocked pause before Steak's body catches up with reality and he attempts tug his hands back from the stranger, the strange churning in his stomach obviously just a case of being so taken off guard by this whole ridiculous charade. ]

The hell are you doing?!

Sokie Undertown | Witch | OTA

[weirdnecro]

Mistletoe fun

[She was mostly hanging out by the door just so she could find a place she could hang up her coat, and not just splatter water all over Everett's nice new place. But there was that impulse. And normally, she was the captain of her own ship, but this time...

Without realizing what was going on, she stepped up and gave a firm kiss. Oops. She jerked backwards, blinking.]

Whoops. I actually did not mean to do that.

Adding to illusions

[He must have grown these flowers when she had been playing around with illusion magics. And while these were fun...they needed a little more to make things pop off a little more.

There was the one that had the little ghausty things- she added to it so there were little moans, and they swirled around her, and around other peoples drinks, as if desperate for one last drink before fading. There was the smell of baking bread, strawberry shortcake, various types of kitkat flavors...to go with the various sparkling colors and giggles that went with it.

Was she being annoying or being helpful? You decide. Especially when there's an illusion of something that suddenly went plop into their tea.]

Teatime bets

You know, I bet you can't drink down this tea.

[She scooted forward a cup of Ardric's Warmth, offering a lopsided smile.]

I'll let you make the stakes.

Cidar Warmth

[She came over with two cups, one filled with boozey cidar, the other not. But she offered it up with a small hum and a grin.]

You like your cider with a kick or nah? I'll let you pick.

All curled up

[It had been a long day. It wasn't so much the socializing or the minor illusion magics that she'd done to help out, but it was all the studying she had been doing for most of the day. Did she have much food today? Not really, she was busy. She made a little study section in the cafe section, with all sorts of notes, where she was curled up with her conjured bean bag.

But if someone came up to gather up her papers she would say, seemingly dead asleep:]

I wouldn't touch that if I were you.

[Whoops.]

Wildcard

Come at me!

Cider Warmth

[kuroi_taiyo]

[ Y'know what? Despite having spent most of this opening on his own notes, for completely unrelated things, Judar could use something to distract himself. You'd think the tea would be enough for that, but he's got an empty cup, and this one was just coming to him. ]

As long as it's not a caffeine kick, I'll take it.

[ Seems the insomnia's still getting him. Though it may have turned out to be more related to the obvious faun features that have been coming in. Something that wasn't present at all when they had first met, with all that clean-up. Then again, neither were the local clothes that he was wearing by this point. ]

steak / chimera / ota

[battlebound]

one — flower shower;

[ It's been a long, hard job to get this place ready, but Steak is puffing out his chest with no small measure of pride as he surveys the space. Dressed as he was at the masquerade, there's only a few adjustments made to his outfit to account for the four new tentacles growing from his waist, horns stretched upright rather than curved against his head.

But, most importantly, he walks through the party carrying bunches of flowers and distributing them to anyone who arrives. He can be found outside towards the beginning of the party, migrating inwards as the night gets colder, but should he pass by a party-goer without a blossom, he plucks a flower from the bunches his tentacles hold aloft and offers it to them. ]

This is for you.

two — i should be playing in the winter snow;

[ Of course, being that Steak spends a great deal of his evening trying to offload these flowers on visitors, he can easily be bumped into under doorframes or by tables, too focused on his current task to really notice the magical compulsion. ]

Ah, excuse me. [ The barest of manners, perhaps, but he does attempt to shuffle out of the way of whoever he's blocked from walking by, horns brushing the wood of the doorframe as he leans back and catches sight of the plant above his head. ]

What's the meaning of that?

[ Is it just decoration? The plant looks vaguely familiar, but Steak is no expert in plants or flowers, and had nothing to do with this particular part of the decorating.

It probably is, isn't it? ]

three — wildcard;

[ you can hit me with something, or come chat to me via discord (isanghae#8071) or plurk (isanghae) and we can work out a closed thread! ]

I

[weirdnecro]

[She knew that Everett had been more or less working on this place as a hangout spot, but she didn't realize he would need to hire so much staff. Nor did she realize he had someone with tentacles on staff either. She blinked, taken aback- but took the flower.]

Ah, thanks?

[She twirled the stem in her hands. Huh.]

So...are these from Everett's garden?

giorno giovanna | vampire | ota

[digiorno]

i. while the kettle warms ( mistletoe )

[It might take someone who knows him well to see the difference between Giorno now and Giorno a few months ago — or just someone well-versed with the phases of vampirism, so to speak. Or just someone observant. He's paler and thinner than he's been since he arrived, his gait a little more shaky and a little less confident, although he hides it well.]

[Easier to hide it in the comfort of an excessively squishy armchair, or better at one end of an ostentatious couch. He sprawls with a mug of cider warming one white-fingered hand; the other turns wafer-thin pages in the massive tome laid on the arm. Occasionally he sets a small bookmark at a particular place. He appears to have a pocket full of them. There are a lot in the section of the book he's already read. He's also acquired a purple-and-white flower crown from somewhere.]

[When he leans back to stretch and let out a silent sharp-toothed yawn, his cider's gone cold and so have his toes. Most anyone passing gets a doe-eyed stare from beneath the mistletoe that he's absolutely deliberately sitting right under.]

It's drafty in here, isn't it? [It's not. His circulation just sucks shit currently. Someone be his personal space heater.]

ii. how long have we waited? ( ardric's warmth )

[On the other end of the interaction spectrum, consider Giorno: red-faced, streaming tears, staring at a half-empty cup of tea like it's personally wronged him. Which, in fairness, it kind of has. On the plus side, he's warm now. On the minus side, it also feels like his head is on fire.]

[Anyone who dares look at him gets a sharp red-eyed glare rounded on them. He snaps, first at the nearest seat and then at the nearest waitstaff — double rude.] You try it. I want to see someone finish it. [If someone else does, he'll have to. Because of pride. This is logical. It's fine.]

ii. lmao, i couldn't resist...

[rightfoot]

[ Okay, so he had heard a couple of whispers around the shop about this tea, and who would get a free tin if they can down an entire cup. And, he sees Giorno make an attempt. Louis isn't necessarily good with the spicy things. But, why not? WHat's the worst that can happen?

He takes a seat, then takes the offered cup. ]

So you know you'll be in good company?

L Lawliet (Linden Tailor to you) | Witch | OTA

[hearthebell]

I. Enchant Me By the Mistletoe

[It's rare for the spindly and shabby witch to feel a compulsion to reach out and make any sort of physical or affectionate overture toward someone else. Even if he likes them, often especially if he likes them. But he certainly feels it now, and is beginning to feel in earnest that it might have been a mistake to come here today.

Hell... there are enough reasons for him to lie low, after recent events. This was, ultimately, foolish, even if his rationale for coming at all was the promise of being within throwing distance of at least a few allies.

As you pass, he thinks about how nice it would be to lean up against your body and get a hug. Long, and perhaps a touch obviously; his gaze lingers.]

II. Illusory Flowers

[L's flower is soft and white, appearing both gentle and innocent. He cants his head and rolls the stem in his long fingers, and as the petals open, he watches a ghostly silver snake glide gracefully out of it, coiling around his wrist and opening its fanged mouth wide.

A piercing scream emanates from the thing, and though none of these illusions are designed to last for a very long time, it feels like an eternity. He drops the flower, hoping there's a way to turn this off sooner.

III. Springtide Blessing

[When presented with the various options for tea he could be drinking, the choice was an obvious one to L. Though he prefers sweet things, clarity and focus are in short supply lately, and he makes it a point to grab a cup of Enki's Ambition. It's hot, but goes down feeling cool; It could stand a bit more sugar, and he's quick to add some from the generous supply that travels with him. As he does so, he glances around the shop, because he has the feeling that someone is near who bears him ill will. Someone who nurses a grudge, and is mocking him even now for having the foolish courage to leave his house today.

Maybe there's too much caffeine in this tea. He could only hope to be so lucky.]

Is there any more sugar?

[He's pulling empty packets out of his pockets, now. This is a travesty; hopefully it can be remedied post-haste.]

WILDCARD

[Don't see it? Want it? Go for it! Hit me up on Discord at ladylazarus#2235 or PM this account if you want something specific!]

Springtide Blessing

[cyclopticsadist]

How about you try this one. It's more to your taste.

[Niles, silent as a ghost on his approach, slides a freshly made cup of Adelheid's heart until the cup clinks with L's current brew. His expression is serious. Hard to read, but the high tension in the air was not in L's imagination.]