The Waking of Neran

[voidtreckermods]

"Good morning Voidtreckers and passengers. Today is day twenty one of the month of Orchestra. We will be arriving in System #78961112094711 later today and the dressing carriage is open for your use."

It is indeed, with thick winter coats, hats, scarves and gloves in all sizes. There are also some bags suitable for carrying food, for anyone who wants to add to the festival food with more food!

They have the morning to prepare before another announcement.

"Shortly arriving in System #78961112094711. The weather is extremely cold, voidtreckers and passengers should wrap up warm and wear their SCA's at all times. Arriving in ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one."
The train shakes as they leave the void and they will see dark skies with glowing flecks of light falling down around them. It's only a glimpse before there is rock to both sides as they enter the landing area.

---

The Waking of Neran

---

... ARRIVAL TO OSIGA

THE VOIDTRECKER EXPRESS PULLS INTO AN OPEN HIGH-STACKED PARKING STATION, FILLED ALREADY BY A VARIETY OF VEHICLES. Darkness and the cold spills into where they pull in, lights and signs around to guide the Voidtreckers who exit the craft where they need to go, elevator and teleporting systems available to choose from.

For those turn their gaze to where the cold comes, they will see a view of the world: a landscape of mountains lit in burning bright blue. Like Christmas and city lights, they can be seen in the far distance, and the sky too glows with a shimmering, falling blue. It looks like a slow rain, while farther up, the twinkling of actual stars can be glimpsed.

This will be their view of the world for three Osiga days - 210 hours, give or take.

The lower floor widens into a train-like station, shuttles ready to take them into Osiga proper in short five minute rides. They just need to figure out they need to scan their SCAs at the turnstiles, which will beep with approval, and send a map to their SCA of the grotto.

With a handy dot to their hotel.

... THE IRUE GROTTO

HOTEL. THE EXTERIOR OF THE HOTEL IS STONY, A WALL OF UNEVEN ROCK WITH SLITS FOR WINDOWS CLIMBING UPWARD. It gives off a sparse, cold impression, but the interior is anything but. Inside the floors are smoother, a carpet in the middle of a lobby, and the walls are decorated with colourful paints and endless rugs and furs. There's seating, a roaring fire in one corner, and lighting set to a cosy mood.

There's stairs that can be taken, but also elevators. The bedrooms are much the same as the lobby, with paints and furs all around - the furs especially covering the beds, along with hand stitched quilts. In the centre is a fire pit, set with heatstones than wood or coal, and extras in a container by a wall with safety instructions of how to move them (with tongs and gloves).

Outside the rest of the grotto can be seen, a mish-mash of layers closer to a labyrinth. There's curtains for privacy, and also a screen to help blot out the sound.

---

FOOD & SIGHTS.

NOW, THE IRUE GROTTO CAN BE EXPLORED. The grotto is easy to get lost in, with stone stairs and archways doubling as bridges to lead to different levels, but always with something to see. Museums and art galleries fill most of the lower layers down, a few shops between of traditional trinkets and garments for those who come out interested in taking a piece of Osiga back with them. There are also day classes, with candle-making a big one on the first night.

Water runs through constructed streams, small but always in travel. They fall off into small waterfalls, eventually gathering into pools that always ensure drink is around. But there's also drinking spaces around, wall coves where servers mind the drinks, and people gather around on crouched seating. Privacy isn't a big deal in Osiga; visitors welcomed into conversation freely. The drinks favour the strong, spicy and sweet. Their traditional drinks are a fiery whisky and a sweet creamy milk drink flavoured by spices that taste very much like cinnamon and nutmeg. It is strongly alcoholic though there is a non alcoholic version as well. There are other drinks available of course from other planets but visitors are encouraged in a good natured way to try the good stuff.

And let's not forget the food. Most traditional Osigian dishes are spicy yet sweet, fatty, and largely meat. There are also food baskets all over, filled with wrapped snacks free for taking, or to add your own. Never let your neighbour go hungry. What will you find, dipping your hand in: a treat, or a mistake?

---

SORS PARKS, OPEN SKIES. THE FARTHER FROM THE HOTELS AND STATION VISITORS GO, THE MORE THE SKY BECOMES VISIBLE, AND WITH IT THE FALLING SNOW. Except this isn't snow, and those who venture out will figure this soon enough. There are sors parks up ahead, hard to miss for how they glow a brilliant blue, tall erratic sculptures shaped like an abstract mess. They're cold, even colder than the rest of the grotto, and near every entrance are wooden racks with coats and scarfs hanging from pegs, a bucket of heatstones to stick in pockets.

Keeping company is better than not. Anyone who goes in alone will find the chill uncomfortable to those who have someone else nearby, SCAs working stronger together. Paths somehow stay free from being covered in the icy mess, and every few yards are grit bins with small bags to put the contents in, instructions as to what to do.

And that's to throw them at the sculptures, into the air, and watch as the hardened ice disperses into a fizzle of lights. The sight is considered beautiful, and especially fun for kids and couples.

... ANAN & THE MINISTRY

It's maybe an hour or so after their arrival when a message comes through the comms on their SCA's.

boop beep boop beep / boop boop boop/ boop boop/ beep//
beep beep / boop beep//
beep beep beep boop/ boop boop boop/ beep beep/ boop beep beep / boop / beep boop beep/ beep/ boop beep boop beep/ boop beep boop/ beep/ beep boop beep/ beep beep beep//

"It didn't close the hack. I think your Voidtrecker Express likes me." Anan sounds almost triumphant. "Glad you all came. I'm at the drinking space next to the Irue Museam of Osigan Art."

For those that wish to go and meet her, they can.

... THE WAKING OF NERAN

NIGHT ONE: REMEMBERING. It's hard to tell when 'night' begins when the world is in darkness and there are more hours in the day then they are perhaps used to. But things begin to wind down a little, the art houses and museums close and the day activities are wrapped up.

People begin making their way to the main streets where the parade will go. Some people may have made candles throughout the day but there are also long candles for sale and 'fire' bearers carrying large torches to light the candles. The main lights are all turned off, plunging the streets into darkness lit only by the candles and the faint distant glow of sors.

The parade itself has large lit floats, literally floating above the ground, the lights are in intricate shapes. There are light dancers- people dressed completely in black to blend in to the night, with ribbons of light doing feats of acrobatics to music- instruments and volcaless voices weaving melodies.

After the parade passes by people move to the streams, where their floating candles that can be lit and sent on their way. There are designated areas for the tall candles to be placed- almost shrine like with areas to pray or think or sing- the helpful guides will assist anyone and are very open to the different ways people from various worlds and cultures may wish to remember their dead.

Afterwards people are encouraged to drink, eat, spend time with the living and swap stories of the dead. Dance and sing. It is upbeat, joyous and the tears are meant to be cathartic.

NIGHT TWO: PERSEVERING. After another day of activities- or resting and recovering from the excess of the night before the grotto again is ready in anticipation. The side of the grotto open to the sky is packed with people, ledges and railings packed with people. Even the buildings on this side of the grotto have opened their doors to allow people up on their roofs to watch the firework display.

Sparklers are sold, as are snacks and drinks and a voice comes through speakers throughout the space.

"NERAN! On this night you fight!" The crowd cheers. "Hear our dedication, return to us! For tonight is a night of COURAGE!"

The crowd cheers again and the fireworks begin. Loud and colourful, beautiful shapes, almost like dances in the sky. It's loud and it's busy but the atmosphere is great, throughout the night within the crowd there are marriage proposals, declarations of new jobs, decisions to travel the void. Bravery and courage abound- helped probably by the strong whisky that is flowing freely.

NIGHT THREE: UNITY. The festival continues, though it's a slightly later start on day three for many who are nursing hangovers, having a well earned sleep in preparation for the final night or just frantically trying to remember what declarations they had made the night before.

But the activities are still happening throughout the grotto- though the guides might advise any obvious voidtravellers that they may wish to nap before 'night' time, especially if they are not used to day/night cycles this long. The final night doesn't stop til sunrise after all and no one wants to miss the sun rising!

As the time comes for the party to start every square and every street is packed, music blares through speakers. Traditional Osigan music mixed with styles and music from other planets in the galexy. The traditional Osigan music has many layers, deep bass instruments that seem to make the ground itself rumble.

There is dancing, led by guides and locals. They are big circle dances, loud energetic and done in unity. There are callers who keep everyone in time and remind them of the steps but it is mostly an exercise in organised chaos.

But very fun organised chaos. There's extra chairs and benches set around for people who would rather watch or need a break from the endless swirl of dancers. There's plenty of water in large barrels for people to help themselves and other drinks are available to buy.

The party goes on for hours but eventually the music stops and there is an announcement that they have an hour left until sunrise. People begin moving out to find the best spots to watch. Up high on the cliffs people spread out rugs and blankets and settle, waiting.

The atmosphere is one of anticipation, people passing around drinks and snacks. Then there is a hush, a cry as for the first time in a month the first ray of light streaks across the sky.

Neran has awoken. The sun has returned once more.

OOC NOTES

OOC post. Ask questions here. The Ministry's testimony form is here

Comments

Crowley | OTA

[agathokakological]

Hotel
[For Aziraphale; may leak into other prompts.]

Missions are hit or miss for Crowley. Despite being a fan of action and adventure heroes, he isn't one for war and fighting. Stealth and espionage is more Crowley’s game, but thankfully he's had better luck as of late with his involvement. This time, for example, feels like more of a vacation than a mission... and for that, he is thankful.

The hotel is warm and homey, and he takes his time in the lobby, admiring the decor and the varied clientele that passes through, then makes his way up to his hotel room, which doesn't disappoint him. Crowley had often dreamed about taking a holiday with his angel, and he was being given another opportunity to do it properly. Sometimes this void business wasn't all bad.

Irue Grotto
[For this prompt please feel free to bump into Crowley at any of the mentioned locations. If later in the day, the threads can lead into any evening's activities!]

A true patron of the arts, Crowley is intrigued by the museums and art galleries available to peruse. He spends the day doing just that, remarking on how interesting differences in art styles vary from those he's used to, and which aspects stay the same even between worlds.

As the days drag on, he eventually finds himself in the drinking spaces, pre-gaming for the evening festivities. He finds he's rather fond of the whisky and cream beverages they serve, reminding him mildly of nog or coquito, but with more heat from the whisky than the rum usually found in such drinks.

"This round's on me!" he shouts to his neighbor at the bar, not even certain if he's being charged at this point, and a touch too intoxicated to care.

Sors Park

Crowley shivers at the entrance to the park, noticing that there seems to be a wave of warmth whenever other passengers pass. He waits for the next passers-by before trekking inside, sighing in the relief he feels as his SCA cranks up the heat a notch in others' company.

"The mention of projectiles was too good to pass up." he mutters idly.

Night 3

It isn't commonly known, but demons love to dance. They aren't particularly good at it, depending on your definition of good... it is fairly chaotic and a touch aggressive, but Crowley has at the very least had practice among the humans of Earth, so he blends in a bit more than the average fiend. Still, our boy brings the party...

"Come on!" he shouts, grabbing a stander-by's arm, "This is meant to be fun." Another word that really depends on your definition of it, clearly, as Crowley is dragging them into the pit(?!) whether they like it or not.

grotto

[irrationally]

The beauty in these places for Alice is always in the exploration. Seeing an entirely different world, and all it's got to offer. Sure, this place certainly is no Wonderland, but for what it's worth.. She's quite enjoying looking around this world so far.

And though Alice usually prefers to look at nature, with the lack of any real forest to explore she too ends up wandering the halls of the museums, gazing at all the art.

She wasn't necessarily expecting to see a familiar face - but there is one all the same, as she overhears Crowley seemingly talking to himself about the art.

Of course the demon's presence always instantly attracts Alice. She's following the sound of his voice, until she can see him standing there in front of one particularly big piece of art.

".. Crowley?" She speaks up, her voice echoing a little against the walls of the museum hall, currently devoid of people other than the two of them. "I was not aware you enjoyed art."

Night Three

[dyingpro]

Zagreus is not dourly standing on the fringes of the dance circles, instead right u8p close, clapping along with the music and eagerly chatting and joking with fellow celebrants as the night wears on. He spots Crowley in the mess of dancing, and suddenly he's being grabbed by Crowley, and pulled into the chaos.

"I don't really know how to dance, mate," Zagreus shouts over the cacopheny of bellowed instructions mingled with raucous party-goers and intense music, but he's grinning as he holds onto Crowley's arms for stability. "I hope you're a good teacher!" The prince calls out last-minute, trying his best to follow Crowley's lead step by step.

Re: Crowley | OTA

[salutosinedelectat]

Aziraphale tends to join Crowley in staying safely inside the train during most stops, but they've been lucky a few of the times before. The odds are still against any stop turning out to be pleasant, but this doesn't seem too bad. In fact, it reminds him of the resort in however many stops ago.

He takes looks around the lobby with faint sounds od admiration, amazed by the stark difference between the outside and the inside of the building. The room, too, is much to his satisfaction, and he finds the quilts to be somewhat charming.

He can't help but to wonder about more enjoyable things the world's culture may provide, so the want to step out and go exploring runs right at the surface, but he would much prefer to do so arm in arm with the demon.

"Oh, isn't it wonderful?" He says as soon as Crowley walks in. For someone who's seen a wide range of hotels, including some of the best in the world, the last couple years of scarcity did adjust his standards a little. "They've got a lot to do around here."

General Amaya | The Dragon Prince | Super OTA!

[the_aunt_general]

The Iron Grotto

She walks through the streets, shield over her back and sword at her side. You can take the woman out of the combat, but...

She's drawn to the candle making class, if only for something to do. But mainly she just explores. The food and drink are both excellent - well worth exploring. But it's the Sors Parks that hold her interest. She wanders alone, dealing with the cold as best she can - in part by bringing one of the blankets from the hotel with her in addition to the clothing. The beauty of the place is...calming.

Night One: Remembering

There is, of course, only one person she would think to remember. Her sister, Sarai, late Queen of Katolis. Doting mother to two sons, loving husband to a now-fallen King.

She places the candle on her own, praying fiercely afterwards, eyes squeezing back tears. Unsuccessfully. Not just for missing her sister, but her nephews, back home. She worries about them, now that she's here. And she misses them, fiercely. She'd tried to do what she could for them since Sarai had died, but...had it been enough? Her prayers are half apology to her sister, half remembrance. A plea for a sign that she's done well enough for the children she loves so fiercely.

Night Three: Unity

She cannot hear the music, but that doesn't mean she doesn't enjoy dancing. Especially, in the past, the sort that let her hold a pretty lady close by. That was always fun, and she is an incorrigible flirt in that regard. Sometimes. She does take a turn with a local lady, before her slightly-scowling girlfriend intervenes, and she waves goodbye in a friendly enough manner.

But sometimes? Sometimes it's nice to just watch.

And, of course, she was on hand to watch the sunrise.

Night Three!

[sirentologist]

The music is too loud, the people are too close, and Tannis is close to having a meltdown. She should have stayed on the train--which is, essentially, the same thing she wishes for each time she lets her scientific curiosity get the better of her on some new world. And now that she's gotten swept up into the crowd, she's finding it difficult to get out of it.

Until she spots what could possibly be a safe place--that quiet lady who'd made rude gestures at her (really, that was almost kind compared to some of the interactions Tannis has had with people in the past), but it's the "quiet" part that she's looking for, so she approaches, looking perhaps a little panicked.

"Hello, I am leaving."

Night One

[onehandsomeslickninja]

Edge had candles of his own to deliver, this night. Rather spontaneously, at that; of course he'd failed to properly plan or anticipate the sentiment of the whole gesture, but nonetheless he'd managed to show up, a pair of candles at the ready.

But the memories of the dead were less important than the worries of the living. Without ceremony, Edge dropped to the ground a little bit away, folding his arms atop his legs.

"Tell me about them."

Arrival

[soldier_blade]

She wouldn't have been the only one with some interest in candle making.

Sonya had been in the process of making one for herself when she witnessed the other woman stopping to observe the class, or rather, she noticed the sword and shield. Even for her, that might've been overkill, and she recalled jokes (that people didn't know she knew of) of how she'd show up to work even at her own funeral. Yet even she didn't bring weapons when what was meant to be some R&R-felt too much like tempting fate.

She went back to her work, dipping the wick in and out to create a layered effect.

Irue Grotto - Sors Park

[subcircuits]

The beauty of this place is calming indeed-- at least, until a massive white dog comes bounding along the path from the opposite direction, barreling headlong into one of the mounds of accumulated sors and dispersing it in an explosion of glittering blue. The dog leaps and dances among his destruction, oblivious to the person nearby whose enjoyment he's possibly just exploded.

Guri | Star Wars | OTA

[marvelous_murderbot]

True Grotto - Hotel - for those who know her, especially close friends

Given the space to stretch out, she makes...arrangements. Mainly because her friends may be few, but they deserve the effort. So she politely asks things, of the hotel staff. And because she is persistent, and has a sort of way of asking questions, they tend to agree.

Especially as she carries the extra furniture into the room over her head, in some cases one handed. The overall effect is to make a warm room all the warmer; extra couches, cushions everywhere. Between the roaring fire, the heatstones strategically placed - it's a warm den. Perfect for proper resting and relaxing.

And she borrowed spaces in the hotel kitchen...to bake. The sort of cookies she makes, namely the ones heavy on the tasty ingredients. Though she's working from local materials so the tastes are...various.

Sors Park

As for the park, well. The cold doesn't bother her. Not even a little bit. She lays back in it, hair spread out around her, just looking upwards at the sky.

Night Two: Persevering

She doesn't actually intend to be involved in combat. But she gets challenged, here and there, as she makes her way through the city. In the first case, by a truly enormous woman who decides to take a crack at a non-local. Guri being Guri, the solution is obvious. The woman swings at her, which she ducks under, and then picks her up from behind around the hips with ease, carrying her to, and depositing her in, a trash can so she can't escape like a crab on its back.

"I am not here to fight. I am sure you are quite capable; nevertheless, I could break you very simply and do not wish to. Please, enjoy the festivities and challenge someone more on your level. Thank you."

Night Three: Unity

You know who wants to dance? Guri. She's never really gotten to, before. Show a human replica droid a good time. Or maybe watch the sunrise with her; she'll enjoy either equally, really - she enjoys doing new things, and seeing beautiful things.

hotel

[irrationally]

Every time she arrives in a new world, Alice tries to keep herself open to it. To just accept all the odd things she's seeing, like she's exploring a new world as if she might be exploring Wonderland itself.

But while she's open to odd things she might see that are part of the world, there are some other things that are still surprising - exactly because they're not a natural part of this world. Case in point: her witnessing a very familiar face moving through the doors that lead to the kitchen of the hotel.

.. it's weird. After all, they're hotel guests here. What would Guri have to seek in the kitchen?

Unable to suppress her natural curiosity, Alice manages to sneak past the staff enough to peer into the kitchen as well, seeing Guri..

.. baking?

Huh.

"Guri, what are you doing?" Alice says, once she's sure the staff either isn't around or doesn't seem concerned with kicking them out of here.

Unity

[soldier_blade]

Deep down, Sonya always enjoyed formal dancing, but her career rarely allowed her to enjoy the hobby, even if there were various studios back home that did have such classes. She never really counted the military formals either, because those were required, not recreational, and her focus during them was more about connections and glad-handing, not enjoying herself.

This was more like a club scene then Ball room dancing, and she couldn't say she was fond of the crowd, but it was something, and it was interesting.

She found herself watching the dancers, trying to recognize the pattern in their steps and movements. Perhaps after awhile she might try and join in, but not now, not till she was certain she wouldn't make an idiot of herself.

Hotel

[worthallthis]

Soldat did their baking on the train, after a foray into the hotel and surrounding shops for ingredients, but now that's done and waiting for Yondu's memorial, and they're giving the hotel a better explore.

And spotting Guri setting up the furniture, they scuttle over to help, taking the other end of one couch. Sure, she can carry it all on her own-- so could they, honestly-- but it's awkward. It's easier with somebody at each end. "Where is this going?"

Nozomi Yumehara | OTA

[cureofmanyworlds]

Food and Sights

Nozomi couldn't help but be in awe of what she had to see. The girl was busy looking through the shops, seeing the various outfits up for sale as her arms had a few baskets of food. Hey, it was free, it was easy to get!

Of course, Nozomi's curiosity also got the attention of the various folk, so now she was busy talking it up with the people there, just enjoying herself in the meantime.

Care to join her?

Remembering

Nozomi couldn't help but feel overwhelmed. At first, she hadn't minded such a thing to be celebrated, but the more she thought of it, the more she realized that, deep down, she had lost a lot. She really had no home to go to as Mayfield was gone. She was certain that Betterplace was gone, too. That meant everyone there was gone. All her friends and her family.

So, you'll probably find herself just watching the crowds, drowning her sorrows in some drink. She's probably accidentally snatched something alcoholic and is probably getting plastered.

Remembering

[paopuofyourlife]

This was an interesting day. A day of remembrance. Kairi hadn't lost too many people that she knew of. But for those she had once forgotten about she had no idea what became of them or even if they were still alive.

So for her it would be a day to remember them at least. So she had plans to grab at least three candles for herself when she spotted her girlfriend drinking.

Curiosity getting to her she made her way over and sitting down next to them.

"Hey, you okay?"

K'zeka Tia | OTA

[catti]

>> A R R I V A L <<

A1 - K'zeka really doesn't do cold weather very well, so when it's announced that they're going to a cold planet, his enthusiasm for visiting it is just a bit dampened. But, he'll take being out in the cold over sitting on the train for a while, and puts on as many layers as he can that will allow him to still move freely.

"This means we're due to visit a warm area next, right?"

A2 - When not hanging out in front of the fire in the hotel lobby, K'zeka is almost always on the move, exploring the museums and galleries, sometimes just looking, and other times scribbling on a notepad. He can also be found in the gift shops, wondering if it would be possible to buy one of everything and if so, if said things would even fit in his cabin.

On the first day, he manages to find one of the candle-making classes. He's not a chandler by any means, so his candle definitely looks homemade, but he's proud of it nonetheless.


>> F E S T I V I T I E S <<

Day 1 - K'zeka does attend and watch the parade, but he's more likely to be found at one of the shrines, placing his homemade candle and sitting near it with some food--enough for two or three people--and a cup of something warm to drink. Those who know him might find him more quiet than usual, just sitting there despite the cold, but still receptive to conversation should anyone attempt to engage him in any.

Day 3 - The final night sees the cat far less subdued than he is two nights prior. He's most definitely participating in the dances and somehow managed to get his hands on not one, but two of the light ribbons used by the dancers in the parade. With his Dancer crystal back on Eorzea, his steps aren't nearly as sure or on time as they could be, but they're good enough and he seems to be having fun.


>> W I L D C A R D<<

Do you want to run into K'zeka somewhere that hasn't been mentioned? He's more likely to be inside than anything else due to the cold, at least when not joining in the festivities. Feel free to start something!

Festivities Day 1

[wewillwewill]

There are many shrines but luck, whether good or bad, brings awareness of another presence. Nothing fancy at first, just the possibly familiar sign that another passenger is in near enough proximity for the SCAs to start bolstering one another.

That this other presence happens to be Elidibus is... well. It's probably not a surprise if a little thought it put to the matter. And the Ascian was not likely to turn around and leave his intended destination because K'zeka happened to be there first.

At first it appears he'll simply ignore the miqo'te and soak in the sight of the shrine, the various candles and people giving remembrance. Curious but distant as is typical. But if K'zeka hasn't been doing his best to ignore the Ascian's presence, he might see the addition of a candle to the shrine by Elidibus's own hands. Just the one, lit with a touch of magic and not outstanding. In fact once he's moved away the candle doesn't stand out at all from the others surrounding it. Except perhaps that it's been the most recently lit at the time.

If he isn't interrupted, Elidibus will eventually turn his attention to his fellow passenger.

"Who do you seek to remember, Warrior of Light?"

Night Two: I will be your gravity [LOCKED to Koumyou Sanzo]

[subcircuits]

More than a month ago, Devero purchased a small, precious something from the train's on-board shop. For more than a month, he's been carrying it with him almost everywhere, wondering when the time will be right to offer his gift to its intended recipient. For more than a month, he's been waiting for the opportune moment.

Now, he thinks, that moment is here. After all, tonight is a night for bravery, is it not?

The 'day' is still winding down; the fireworks everyone's been talking about are due to start soon. The sky side of Irue grotto is already filling with eager spectators, especially anywhere the many tourists visiting the city throng. Devero's spent a fair part of his time alone yesterday out scouting the city, enjoying the festival but with an ulterior motive behind his wanderings....

And boy, has his effort paid off! He'd sent Koumyou a message earlier with a location, a time, and a request to join him. Koumyou will find that the address he's given is... in one of the neighborhoods inhabited by year-round residents of Osiga? Indeed, Devero stands outside what appears to be a private home, well bundled up against the cold, and tries not to fidget too obviously while he waits for his boyfriend to join him.

[its_dad_sanzo]

And right on time, here comes the moon. Koumyou's bundled up in the fancy cloak Devero had picked for him at the winter faire, exactly six months ago. Hood up, hands hidden inside and undoubtedly tucked into the sleeves of his robes.

He offers Devero a smile as he draws near, and a curious tip of his head to one side. "I heard there's going to be fireworks," he says, "did you want to watch them together?"

Lea OTA

[hotheadwarmheart]

Food

OK, if there was one thing Lea was loving about this place, it was the food. Some of it might be a bit on the unusual side for most people, but there was really something for everyone. Well, everyone who could handle a bit of spice that is, and Lea could handle it like a champ. And since the opportunity had been offered, Lea had brought some grilled rice balls- some with octopus filling, some without- from the train to share around, so those might be found in the snack baskets.

He happened to be sitting in an outdoor eating area, starting in on a large plate of a dish made of a mix of sausage and roasted root vegetables in a sweet and spicy sauce when he spotted one of his fellow Voidtreckers passing by. "Hey there," he called out. "Wanna join me? This is really good, and there's enough here for two."

Sights

Lea wasn't really big on museums or galleries, but a lot of the classes were pretty interesting. He doubted he'd be taking it up as a hobby on his own time, but candle making was surprisingly fun, and there were lessons in making a few other traditional handicrafts as well. Some of them would likely even come in useful for the project he intended to take on with the help of Xion's seashell collection.

And of course, there was always window shopping. He wasn't initially sure if he intended to buy anything at the various market stalls, but a lot of it looked cool. Or rather, warm, in the case of some of the soft goods on offer. In fact, one scarf in particular caught his eye. There was nothing obviously remarkable about it, but his expression looking at seemed oddly nostalgic. Maybe someone could convince him to drop a bit of money on it?

Night One (Feels-heavy)

Lea watched the parade, one of the tall candles in his hand, expression thoughtful. And when the parade passed, he followed everyone down to where he could let two little floating candles- each lit from his fingertip- go to float on their way. Then? Then there was nothing to do but plant his tall candle. Other people were praying or singing, but Lea wasn't sure quite what to do so he just... talked.

"Hey, Mom. Hey, Dad," he said. "I guess... it's been awhile huh? Sorry this took so long, but... I guess there was always something else going on, you know? And I just got so used to you both being gone that I just... didn't think about it much. Not like this anyway. I know, I know; that's no excuse. But... well, better late than never, I guess?" He offered a weak smile, but it quickly faded.

"I know I haven't been much of a son. Wasting over ten years working for the bad guys, not being able to stop things from falling apart back home, or anywhere else, really... Most of the time I can't even manage to help my friends. Not when it really counts."

"But I promise, I'll do better. I'm already trying. Trying to fix some of the harm I did, to help people, to help my friends. To be the kind of man you guys would want me to be. I don't know if I can, in the end, but... I'm gonna try."

"I just... I wish you were both here. Partly to see all the amazing stuff I've seen, and to meet Xion and everyone- I know you'd love her, Mom-, but mostly... mostly, now that I can again, I just... miss you. I really miss you. Both of you. I'll do my best to make you proud. And... I'm sorry."

Night Two

Now this was more of a festival in his mind. Lea cheered with the rest, waving his sparkler- when was the last time he'd had a sparkler, seriously?- and watching the impressive fireworks display. And later, once everyone had filtered down off the rooftops and he'd managed to find an open enough space, he put on a little display of fire tricks of his own. Fire birds and butterflies danced above his head. Miniature fire horses, cats, and dogs pranced around him. And if the opportunity arose, he might even relate Radiant Garden's most well known bed-time story with fire effects as visual aides.

Night Three

Lea was among those who slept late and caught a nap during the day, because he wasn't about to miss any of this night. While his group dancing skills were mediocre at best, skill wasn't really the point of these dances. Having a lot of fun was. So if he happened to see someone along the sidelines who he thought might want to join in? Well he might just try to snag that person and pull them in for a round of fun organized chaos.

End of Night Three- Closed to Xion

This? This was why Lea hadn't wanted to miss any part of the night. He'd managed to snag a fairly good spot and spread out a fur rug for himself and Xion to sit on. And from his pocket? Well, he pulled two ice cream bars, one for each of them.

Was it actually colder than the ice cream itself around them at the moment? Almost certainly. But an occasion like this couldn't be marked any other way. Though Xion may want to forego the usual space between them and take advantage of Lea's warmth, just this once.

Wildcard

(OOC: You know what to do.)

Presuming this is after the reconciliation, so doing my best, lol.

[nobodys_puppet]

Xion's eyes lit up under her hood as she saw the ice creams and took it. But she still left Roxas' space. Even if it was cold and Axel was anything but. There were still echos of their fight worrying her, but...

But he was still Axel. One of her two best friends. And she wouldn't have missed this for anything the train could offer. She took the ice cream, wishing there was one for Roxas.

Wishing Roxas would surprise them by showing up, like it was any day after a mission where he was just late...

Persephone | OTA (mostly)

[springforth]

Remembrance

As odd as participating in a mortal's cultural and semi-religious customs is, Persephone finds this one the most soothing. Sure, it's brilliant and festive and joyous. The dancers are amazing, light twirling and spinning in the dim, the floats are bright. The long candles are being sold, lit, set in places of honor. But it's kneeling beside the stream, candles set beside her, that feels the most like a proper sendoff. Water is such an intrinsic of both life and death.

Two of her candles are smaller mottled shades of blue and pink. She flicks the watch, carefully lights and places the first, then the second, into the water. They drift off, lazily spinning around each other before they disappear out of sight. Her last one she fumbles with, bigger and as close to the cyan color of shades as she could manage. But she keeps fumbling with the matches, breaking one, then dropping the next.

"Sugar snaps..." She tries one more time before she squeezes the hem of her coat in her hand and takes a deep breath.


Second DayClosed to Zetta

Morning is very relative on this world, but so is morning on the Voidtrecker. The clock states it's closer to noon, but it could be midnight just as easily with how it looks out the window. Persephone is sitting up in bed, watching the sors fall in the distance. It reminds her a lit of the underworld, all dark and blue. She hums and tucks her knees up to her chest and glances over her shoulder at Zetta.

"Do you want to do something today? Together, I mean. There's these parks that are supposed to be really pretty and tonight they'll have fireworks. And there's restaurants and places to grab a bite. If you'd like to." Persephone pauses, twisting a lock of hair around her hand that slowly lengthens as she fusses, "I've never been on an actual date is all. Do demons do dates?"


Final Night

A. It's impossible not to get overwhelmed in the excitement. It bubbles up in her as she takes a drink, then another, the feeling buzzing in her veins. Then the dancing starts up, wide circles and more intimate ones and the beat of their music--it sings through her. She isn't a big dancer, but there's no judgement for her skills, just laughter and community. When she pulls herself away and spots a familiar face, she grins and snags their arm.

"I need something to drink."


B.
After the announcement, the atmosphere calms, the world seems to quiet. There's a low constant level of chatter, but the anticipation is palpable. And in that moment, Persephone wonders.

She tries to reach out with all her senses, to feel for the goddess whose story they all tell. Belief is a strange thing. The people don't actually seem to believe in their goddess, but they tell her story every year. They worship her with light and song, fireworks and dancing, calling her to return. What goddess could ask for better tribute?

"Do you think she's real? Or did they just make her up?" She lowers her arms that she didn't quite realize she had raised, as they wait for the sky to lighten. Has an hour ever taken so long?

Second Day

[badassfreakingoverlord]

Zetta might not be one for sentiment much, but even he had to admit this was one of the most beautiful sights he'd ever seen. He could look for hours without getting bored... And of course there was a whole world out there, too, but nuts to that. Worlds came and went, but girls like 'Sephe were one-of-a-kind.

Eventually, though, he realized she was saying stuff, and he lurched back to attention just in time to catch the last part and answer it. "This one's damn well about to."

[dnaofahalfa]

Hotel
Razzy will come to the hotel to sleep...maybe. She will largely avoid it for too long, mostly when she doesn't want to risk sleeping outside.

Food and drink
She. Is. Trying. Everything.

She's not used to spicy, so there are times she has to follow it up with a lot of drink and something dairy, but she hardly let something like a little pain stop her from trying new foods.

She ends up in a few eating competitions, honestly, because she can put away A Lot.

Now what might be a touch more worrying is she will take alcoholic drinks and think nothing of drinking them. Sometimes you don't get taught what a legal drinking age is.

Open Skies
There are advantages to ghostly biology and Razzy is grateful for it because there is nothing better then seeing the night sky. She will always take a chance to fly freely amongst the sors, at times letting it build up on her before phasing out, helping decorate the more open landscape with climbing sculptures of the stuff.

Remembrance
Twenty-six candles.

She has twenty-six candles with her, of various colors, form vibrant rainbow shades to duller neutral colors, but no two colors are the same. And carved into each one is a different image. For someone knowledgeable of stars, most are constellations, but few are other mythical figures.

Only one has a name instead: Raya. And then there are four with nothing on them, in shades of green.

She will light them one by one, the mythical figures first, Raya and the other four last, humming a soft, somber tone.

Fireworks
How can a fourteen year old say no to blowing stuff up?

Razzy is all too eager to get involved, often offering to help get better angle for some of the fireworks since flying makes it a lot easier to get things to go high up. She'll even throw in cheers for Neran and having a ball with it.

Sunrise
She can appreciate the sunrise when it comes, but before that, she joins in the dancing. There is a lot of laughing and sometimes pulling people into an impromptu flying dance if they seem open to it.

That might just be you. "Come on, let's dance!"

Food and Drink

[mystic_mongoose]

“Woah, easy there! You’re gonna have a stomach ache!”

And there’s Mina, tiny thing that she is, trying to rein in Razzy’s craziness.

[shadowcourage]

Food and Drink
An extended night sounds like a great time to Shadow, honestly. Especially when it comes to a party. And hey, more things to try out to make for the kitchen!

So Shadow will be moving between the food and drink, trying a little of everything. Spicy is a thing he has limited exposure to, but there is something fun about how it tingles.

He is also absolutely drinking because he doesn't respect drinking ages. If he knows you, you may find yourself getting draped on by an overly friendly Shadow.

Culture
He will be attending the candle making lesson, making primarily black candles, but that is more with a goal in mind.

The museum and art gallery is of more interest as he wanders through, taking in the art styles and the history with some interest.

Sors Parks
He will be wandering the parks, one part admiring the structures, another part watching out for anyone whose pushed themselves in the cold. Sometimes it pays to not have normal insides, the cold is hardly a bother for him. He's mostly wearing a hat and coat just so he isn't hounded about it.

Remembrance
He keeps distant from most as he lights the candles to release them. A little more formal, rigid then he handles things, letting them drift away.

"I'm sorry," he murmurs, just once.

Fireworks
He isn't much for light in most cases, but there is something really fun about watching stuff explode. So he will take a seat somewhere to watch the fiery display, though is absolutely avoiding things like the sparklers.

Dancing
Food, drink, and dancing sounds like a good time and Shadow plans to take full advantage of THAT. If he recognizes you from the train, he's absolutely going to catch a hand and pull you along in an excited dance with an amused grin.

Fireworks

[sevenyearsasleep]

Link settled beside Shadow, still working on a treat. “Nice show, huh?”

He took another bite. “I kind of like the shapes. I wonder how they do that.”

[fun_thementalist]

— HOTEL —

It’s all well and good to enjoy the amenities of the rooms - furs, quilts, stony floors and walls simply reminded Gen of home - but. What about the roof? What about the view?

During the day, he’s just attempting to discretely see how it was best to get up there - and Gen was no acrobat. Still, he’s surprisingly fit and wry for a scrawny little guy, isn’t he?

At night, though, he’ll be waiting for someone as he looked up at the stars. Gen’s not sure they’ll be sleeping up there - it might sadly be too cold - but. Perhaps - if it weren’t too overcast …


— FOOD & SIGHTS —

Gen would take a peek in the art galleries, of course. He did appreciate art, and perhaps one of the few good things about the train kidnapping him was getting to see the cultures of other places. It was fascinating! But …

It might be a good idea later to set up a makeshift fortune-telling booth. Look. He wanted to have a little fun - and he could make a little money to buy trinkets this way as well. Anyone interested in having their fortune told?

Mind you, if he’s not looking at the spectacles around him or making himself into one, he’ll be wandering around with some of those free snacks. Did you grab one yet? Are you hungry? Gen’s be happy to offer one.

— NIGHT THREE: UNITY —

Gen adored dancing. That’s all he’s really here for. If someone looked like they were interested in twirling around the dance floor for a moment - he’d take their hand with a grin.

“And to think - I almost missed the ice skating!” He’d wink.

Night

[10billionpercent]

Without a doubt, they'd be together each night but that first night although it was chilly, was probably going to be the clearest, with fireworks on the itinerary for the next night.

Senku encountered Gen, his hands in the pocket of his coat, definitely not regretting the fact he made those for them six months prior.

"Hey." He greeted. "I'd heard a little bit about the candles..."

Najaran | OTA

[najaran]

Days one and two

Surprising no one who knew her that Najaran spent most of the first two days eating. She did try out candle making... which mostly meant that Goligan got covered in wax from the "neck" down.

But the rest of the time... Najaran was sampling as many foods as she could, spenind all she had been given to spend and trying to find ways to earn more without hurting anyone or breaking any rules. She might also be slipping food that would keep into lunch boxes hidden in her bag.

Day Three
Najaran happily joined in the dancing between snacks, seeming to have a grand time. She was clearly fit and athletic. But when they were suggested to nap, she happily napped. And then she rejoined the festivities. When it came time to watch the sunrise she summoned rideable flying dinosaur/dragon hybrid and flew somewhere that they wouldn't block anyone's view below, so they could watch together.

Day Three

[mystic_mongoose]

Participating in the various events was fun, but even someone like Mina needed some sleep. Thus, she’ll end up wandering somewhere for that nap.

And of course, find herself snuggled up to Najaran.

Xion | OTA | Angst Warnings

[nobodys_puppet]

Whole three days except sunrise
Xion would happily have stayed on the train, but she knew that Axel wanted her out and about. Though for once her jet black coat helped hide her. She stuck to the relative darkness. But it was impossible to spend all three days without being spotted. So some might noticed the small figure in black, hood hiding her face as she tried to vanish into this shadow or that one....

Spark/Gar | Ota

[death_from_above]

((OOC reminder, unless we discussed it OOC, please do not just have your character know that Spark and Gar are the same person. Thanks.))

Day One - Gar

The blond teenager with the green eyes was usually ready with a quick joke. Today he was a bit more somber. Rather than an animal pun on his shirt, his shirt was in a local style and read "The Mourning Before The Morning" and was designed to look like wax was dripping from the shoulder and neck seams. He wore small bear ears on a headband and a small bear tail clipped to his pants. He seemed very much like he was embracing the mourning part of the traditions. He wasn't talking about those he had lost, but he was clearly mourning them all the same.


Days 2 and 3

The orange cat wandered around the festivities, seeming like... well... like a cat. Like he was interested but trying to act aloof about it. He would help himself to any unattended food that had fish in it. If it was stranger's food, he'd make sure it really was unattended, that they had left it behind. A friend's food however... might get attacked while they were near, but with their backs turned.

Clef | OTA

[guru_clef]

Day One

Clef had pretty much only come out to see if there were books to buy. But when he learned about the traditions of the first night... he might be offering candles to anyone who needed one but couldn't afford it. But he was distracted as he did it, his thoughts on those who were lost. And those who were wronged and hurt in the past.

Days Two and Three
Clef, unless pulled away by family or friends would spend most of his time - and all the money meant for food - looking for local non-fiction books. And once he found them, reading them.

While traveling from shop to shop, he moved in his usual way - floating on a spit of grassy ground wrapped in a magical bubble. this time he was above people's heads, rather than eye level, however.

Family and friends wildcard
(Close CR, have at!)