Season Turning Festival

[graveyounglady]

season turning festival

winter turns to spring

The Oval Playground, just south of the Old Bridge Street Burying Ground had seemed the perfect place to set up for the Winter to Spring Turning Festival that this get-together has become. It's a grander affair than Mercy had first envisioned, but she's glad for the shift given Rue's help. The air is brisk, the day clear, and colorful tents have been erected on the open green up against the northern edge of the park… not terribly far from the graveyard, if one were to hop a fence. It's no grand city festival, but there are more than a few activities and foodstuffs to catch the eye of those who might deign to drop in for the fun.

Everyone who does stop by will be immediately directed to a table where winter-themed flower crowns can be picked up. Each one is unique and there seem to be enough crowns for any who might want them.

A photo area has been set up with a tasteful background and a variety of Seasonal Props (and just cute or interesting things Mercy and Rue have come across) one may wear or hold: cornucopias, bouquets of flowers, heart pillows, a skull with antlers, and all other manner of odds and ends that seem seasonal to winter or the coming spring. Some of them are a bit more macabre than others.

There is food and drink aplenty to be found within the tents. Nothing excessively grand (or too alcoholic), but set out in a very pleasing array with a chocolate fountain at the heart of the display. A variety of unique and wintry centerpieces are dotted about to add some additional flair.

There are also sign-ups for a Blanket-wrapped Race and Campball with promised prizes for the winners. These come along with another sign-up for a Fashion Show to be judged by Rue and Mercy at the end of the afternoon's festivities. Wear your seasonal best to the festival or step into the Fashion Tent where you'll find an offering of clothes and accessories to help pull your winning design together!

sampling the season

celebration in style

Introduction
Mercy isn't usually nervous about giving speeches. She's spoken to all kinds of people for her work both as an undertaker and as a healer… even as a rebel, after a fashion. But this is particularly important, sharing something with others that's part of her homeland, something that's not technically her right to do. She adjusts the flower crown atop her head, steps up onto a makeshift little platform, and raises her hands for attention.

"Thank you, kindly, friends, for coming out. Me'n- The Honorable Rue and I have been working to put together a little shindig we thought folk might enjoy, something to liven the spirits while we're coming out of this long stretch of dark and cold. Where I'm from, Evergreen Abbey, we got a tradition of celebrating the changing of the seasons. Spring to summer, summer to fall, fall to winter, and winter again into spring. The world is cycles. A deep breath in and another out as the earth, hisself, breathes.

"With a season turning comes a naming. We honor the time we've spent with the past and present even while we look to the future. It's the right of the Abbot or Abbess of Evergreen to name the season, but seeing as we ain't got one of them on hand…" She manages a crooked grin. "I name this the Winter of Kindled Flames. Whether that's warmth in fire or in friendships, both'll see us through to what's ahead." She looks to Rue and steps aside in case the owlbear would like to say their own words.

Of course crowned in their own set of vibrant flowers, Rue’s glamoured countenance beams down at Mercy before they turn their charming smile on the crowd. They wave an arm out - and for any familiar with Rue’s true form, it would be easy enough to imagine the grand flourish their feathery wing would make - directing the attention to them. “My friends, we only ask that you open yourselves up to the true beauty of the changing seasons. It must be said, that although the aim of this festival is to bring some lighthearted reprieve into our lives, it would not behoove of us to simply ignore the fear we have all been faced with as well. But as a wise woman once spoke -” And though it’s quite subtle, Mercy would feel a gentle, feathery paw at her elbow. “‘Fear falls when it's faced with bonds it can not break.’ So please, we welcome you to enjoy the grand festivities planned, while you engage with friends, both old and new.”

I. Flower Crowns and Photographs
A table is set up and regularly replenished with a variety of unique flower crowns that seem to have been handmade. Each is different, featuring little touches of interest here and there, whether in an unusual color combination or arrangement. There are even some supplies in a nearby box and some basic instructions laid out should one want to fashion their own flower crown or add to an existing one. A small sign accompanies the table of crowns, written in Mercy's neat and very old-fashioned looking handwriting:

We weave the world together
And place each blossom bright
To find ourselves the vigor
To carry on our fight
And with each crown we place
Our hearts alight with yearning
We name ourselves the vessels
For joy and season's turning

- Mercy Summermist, Hero of Evergreen Abbey

Not far beyond the flower crown station is a photo point. This place seems to have been set up specifically to provide an excellent opportunity for any person (or persons) to pose for a picture. There are rich cloths draped artfully over some branches of a tree and little lanterns and faerie lights that twinkle in the shade. There are a few logs and stumps that have been rolled over to provide seating or something to stand on for those who might wish to be a bit taller than usual. Off to one side of the photo area, there is a cardboard box filled with all manner of eclectic items. Some of them are sensible and seasonal. Others are just a bit odd. You might be surprised what you find in that box to join you in your photo. The stranger things undoubtedly came from a certain gravedigger, but it's best not to ask where she might have acquired them.

II. Food, Mingling, and a Grave Path
Tables have been set up in some of the tents and out on the green of the park that sport an assortment of foods and beverages. They're mostly the standard platters of fruits, cheeses, veggies, and meats one might be able to purchase at the local grocery store, but they've been arranged on nicer plates. There's one table set up as the central and most prominent display. In the center is a chocolate fountain and assorted dipping items. There are also whimsical candies here from the newest shop in Gloucester that's making an invertebrate splash!

In addition to the tables for food, there are little seating areas that are a combination of chairs and whatever else could be found at Bonnie's and on short notice to serve as seating. These more… eclectic sitting locations are covered by comfy-looking blankets and set up around small fire pits where they're available. Enjoy a plate filled with food or a big cup of hot chocolate or coffee from a nearby drinks station.

For those who are less keen on mingling with others or who just need a moment to themselves, there is a gate leading out of the park to the north and directly into the copse of trees that surround the Old Bridge Street Burying Ground. The graves here date back to the 1700s and some of them look… strangely fresh considering their headstones. Has something been digging here? Have zombies been clawing their way from the earth, itself? Who can really say? There does seem to be a pattern to the graves with turned earth. They appear to be the grandest and most well-preserved headstones in the yard. What curious times we live in!

III. Campball Lessons
"Campball's the easiest thing you ever played," Mercy tells those assembled on the pitch. She has a soccer ball in hand as the closest equivalent to a campball that she could find. "No touching the ball with your hands." She drops the ball down and dribbles it briefly between her feet. "But anything else goes so long as you ain't drawing blood or breaking bones." Her enthusiastic grin might be just a bit too much for the faint of heart. "We got goals set up on either end of the pitch. You can take turns kicking and guarding to start, then move on to running the pitch with the ball. Got some cones set up for you there. Practicing stealing the ball from each other'll be next. Don't be afraid to get a little rough. Or getting sneaky. I seen one team win a match using tricks to keep the other team guessing where the ball actually was."

"The first team to score 5 points is the winner, and we'll take breaks every 20 minutes. We'll try to make the teams even on numbers, and I'll be watching off to the side while you do drills so's we can even the skill out, too."

Those assembled will be unleashed upon the practice pitch in pairs to test their mettle. Occasional encouraging words will be thrown out over the course of the 30-minute practice before everyone is dismissed for refreshments and preparation for the battle game to come. Perhaps you've been lured by the game itself or some curiosity. Perhaps you've been lured by the promise of a free, tailored outfit for each member of the winning team. Either way, there's practice to get to and a campball championship title to be won!

((OOC: Sign-ups for the campball teams are below. Terri will RNG the winning team on March 1st.))

IV. Blanket-wrapped Race Strategizing
The Blanket-wrapped Race is a curious sort of affair. People are asked to pair up in teams of two, one to wrap their partner in the blanket and the other hop, waddle, or roll their way to victory while cocooned. The blankets provided come in a range of sizes to accommodate competitors of different builds, but they're all thick and stiff. There are colorful bungee cords available, as well, a nod to these modern times. Mercy would usually use standard rope, but she doesn't want to make anyone suffer having to figure out knots on the fly.

Instructions are provided that the one being wrapped must have the blanket bungeed to them at the ankles, waist, and shoulders, at a minimum. They'll be checked before they're let off the starting line. Once on the move, the pitch isn't the longest in the world, but to someone wrapped in a blanket, it might seem quite the distance… especially considering the hazards laid out before them. There are down tree branches, patches of ball bearings, and well-hidden trip-wires.

Attentive partners to the blanket-wrapped will run ahead of them to warn of hazards or maybe even move them into the way of competitors who might be behind or ahead of their racing companion. Work with your companion to test different wraps and strategize for your run down the track before the starting bell.

((OOC: Sign-ups for the Blanket-wrapped Race are below. Terri will RNG the winning pair on March 1st.))

V. Fashion Show Prep
“Now remember,” Rue is thrilled to remind those eager to participate in the festival’s impromptu fashion show. “Half of a fashionable presentation is simply being confident. Whatever you end up wearing, as long as you feel most glamorous, you’re certain to leave the judges panel in absolute awe. But having said that, sticking to the seasonal theme will certainly net you a few bonus points in the final tally.”

Those wanting to participate are welcome to use from their own collection or to peruse the clothing racks provided in the changing tents. There’s a little something for everyone in every shape and size, Rue has made certain of that, so no non-humans should be feeling left out if they want their chance to strut down the improvised runway.

The esteemed panel - Mercy Graves, Delloso de la Rue, and Neal Caffery - will be sitting on as the judges this afternoon, each scoring every participant separately only for Rue to round up all of the points at the end of the festivities. Come and show off your own special brand of fashion, dance your way down the catwalk, or maybe come give a friend a hand in the hopes they’ll walk away with the top prize of the evening.

((OOC: Sign-ups for the Fashion Show are below. Mey will RNG the winning pair on March 1st.))

♡

Comments

[wewillwewill]

"You need not add any formality. 'Themis' will be enough." The response is polite and assuring. He truly doesn't appear to mind she address him informally. It's for many reasons though one may well be in keeping with his current appearance; he hardly looks, at least, much older than Mercy.

Seasons, rather than season. A term he's not unfamiliar with; Eorzeans often counted a year in a similar fashion. Still, it is best to be certain. "You refer to what is oft measured as a 'year'?" And if so it is interesting that she's seen nearly two of them. Few of the Fear-touched he's spoken to so far have admitted to being here for more than a month or two and so it would be worth noting for later.

Briefly Elidibus allows his attention to follow the direction of Mercy's gaze. Romantic feelings between two women doesn't appear to phase him in the least. There is a thoughtful expression that is probably more to muse whether he has seen Aelwyn in the Research department yet, and he returns his attention to Mercy.

"The ADI seems to take such matters seriously. At this time, I am undergoing their training program to prove I am fit for the task." There is a short pause followed by an ever so faint smile.

"One of my many duties was to bring about reconciliation and understanding. Many of my skills are not too dissimilar to what is being asked of the role of counsel here. I only hope to be of some use to those who seek guidance."

Admittedly Elidibus does have a calm and patient air about him. If nothing more, he might well be a good listener for those who need to get some troubles off their chest.

[graveyounglady]

The people here who prefer no title are so very strange! Mercy smiles at him and his assurances. "Two years." She offers a smart nod. "Sorry. I know folks got a way of calling it here. Old habits." Especially when they're celebrating a season-turning here today.

The young woman offers a simple shrug to his explanation. "I don't doubt you got skills, it's getting people through your door that'll be the real trick, sir. There's... a lot that happens here to everyone... near on every month. But asking for the help you need's hard, ain't it? Especially when you'll like as not be seeing as many terrible things as some of us.

"You ready for that, you think?"

[wewillwewill]

Elidibus does have a title he prefers! But it's also his name and well, the ADI did say to refrain from using it in public. That probably includes explaining it and thus one of the reasons why he doesn't.

Two years then, and he offers a nod in thanks for the confirmation.

"There is no need to apologize. A similar measure of time was used where I am from." Along with several other differences in measurement. It should be especially expected from those who hail from another star entirely. It should be more surprising there's so many similarities between this Earth and some of the more 'alien' homes.

Tilting his head a moment, Elidibus gives Mercy's words some thought. But he has an answer that can be spoken with some assuring confidence and is done so along with a faint smile.

"It is their choice whether to come. Though I will make an effort to watch out for those who might be in need of guidance. Mayhap I will be able to persuade them to attend. For others, it will be enough that my door is open."

The last matter she speaks of though, that is given the somber expression it deserves. Elidibus does not intend to make light of the road before them all, nor forget that he too is a prisoner of these entities and their designs on this star.

"Knowing not what our enemy may conjure, it would be imprudent for me to say I am wholly ready. Yet the entities that bind us will find I am not one to bow easily."

The smile returns, though this time it is without the touch of gentleness he intentionally placed in it before.

"And I am no stranger to such battles as this." The words might have seemed arrogant spoken in any other manner. Here it is a simple statement of fact, spoken calmly by someone who has indeed seen what terrible things manifest Fears have wrought.

[graveyounglady]

"I'm sorry and grateful you've seen trouble like this before." Mercy's own smile is tight. "If you wanted a little more help understanding what we're up against... well, I been here a stretch. Ain't the happiest talk, but there's some good that's come out of it, and we've overcome a lot. Wicked folks and the things they do to us, cursed things we had to find and get rid of.

"We got heroes, here. Expect you'll be one of 'em afore long if you got the experience and drive." There's a quiet earnestness in her tone at that, rather than something more sarcastic or cynical. They do have heroes. A great deal has been accomplished... even if it does feel like they swimming against an endless tide at times.

[wewillwewill]

Elidibus understands Mercy's sentiment. It is no joy for many to hear someone has suffered but it is at the same time assuring to realize someone with experience in dealing with such issues is there.

"I would appreciate speaking with you at length on what you have experienced." But he knows there is also a time and place for such things. With a brief glance spared their surroundings Elidibus adds, "Though it may wait for another day." There is, after all, a purpose in taking time to enjoy festivities. Not everything need be business.

Ah yes. Words and earnest emotions. Ones Elidibus is so very familiar with. Though he closes his eyes for a moment, one would not get the sense that he is trying to deny Mercy's assessment of this star's potential. Nor is he looking for patience.

Memories. And how much more of this world will have its tiny pieces of almost familiarity without being an echo of the true Etheirys. Elidibus sighs softly, but his answer is gently given.

"Where hope remains, heroes will rise to the occasion. It seems one matter that would remain constant, regardless the distance one travels or the length of time one lives."

Turning his full attention to Mercy once more, Elidibus offers her a faint smile. "But as to the role of one, I have some familiarity with that as well."

[graveyounglady]

"Oh? You much of a storyteller, then? Wouldn't mind hearing about a few heroic deeds from another world." Her smile is easier now. This is easier, perhaps, speaking of distant places with no bearing on this one. "Got a tale or two from Amia to share in return for the telling."

She gestures for him to gather what snacks he would like and join her at one of the seating areas. If they're going to regale each other with stories, it seems better to do it seated.

"Maybe even a little song one of the bards in the Abbey wrote a few years back. Mind, I'm no bard, but I got pipes and can hold a tune."

[wewillwewill]

Isn't it always easier (perhaps not better but certainly easier) to speak of things less tragic? And there are many stories Elidibus can speak about. He allows a faint smile to touch his lips.

"You may judge my ability for yourself." He adds some other snacks to his plate and makes certain whatever beverage he grabbed will be adequate before following her suggestion to find a place to sit. Mercy has only to pick a spot and he will make himself comfortable at the same cluster.

"Amia. This is the place you once lived?" Though the flow of their conversation has let him deduce she's as much an alien to this world as he is, he has yet to drop the formalities of speaking 'in public' as it were. It seems as though it comes second nature for him to do so.

[graveyounglady]

She collects her own things and finds a comfortable spot at one of the little tables they've set up. There are more than a few chocolate things on her plate. Why forego when it's right there? It's still astounding to see the breadth and volume of foods available in Gloucester. The grocery store is more a land of plenty than many people know, she thinks.

"Yeah. Well, it's the... world. I lived in a village called Evergreen. That's in Leigland, which is... it's like America? It's bigger'n Massachusetts. States." Politically, anyway. She's not entirely sure how big geographically it is by comparison. "What's your hometown, then?"

[wewillwewill]

He asked of her hometown and it is only to be expected that she would ask about his.

"Amaurot," comes the simple answer. Though his expression remains serene, it seems Elidibus cannot completely hide the attachment he has to his hometown. The emotion in his tone looks to betray a complexity of love and something else, which feels like a distance that simply can't be written off as a sudden (but recent) departure.

It's as if he hasn't seen his home for a long time even before he came to be on Earth. And while Elidibus may well be intentionally showing such emotion to better connect with Mercy, it is not faked.

"To my people, it was the center of our civilization. I would find it difficult to compare it to anything I have learned so far about this world." He could describe buildings that rivaled skyscrapers or the lack of want for anything, from food to clothes to shelter. But what mortal civilization had ever been as grand? His view is biased of course but also thrown in sharp and painful contrast by recently restored memories.

Yes, it would be best not to speak too much, if only to remain polite surely.

"So Leigland is the nation you lived in, Evergreen the village. And Amia the world as you knew it?" In comparison Elidibus has said very little about his place of origin. Yet it seems attentive and curious and content to question Mercy further about herself if she lets him get away with it.

"You seem to have adjusted well." He offers a faint smile. Granted it's been two years. And for mortals that is ample opportunity to settle in. "Do you live under the ADI's jurisdiction or with the landlady named Bonnie?"

Meanwhile he's not ignoring the food on his plate. Every so often he pauses to pick up a something and pop it into his mouth. Most of what he grabbed was bite sized and not at all intrusive to continuing a conversation.