middleofsomewhere | The Waking of Neran

The Waking of Neran

"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

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Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

He was amused by her designation of young one, but he didn't bother to correct her.

"It's different. I actually appreciate visiting new places, and it's the kind of thing I might've done at some other point in my life than now."

He sipped the cider. "As good as things usually are."

"I never got to go much of anywhere back home," Nell admitted, "so I have to say that I every much enjoy this part of being swept away by the train. I guess they're right about there being some good in most everything if you just look hard enough."

"I still carry your knife with me, by the way," she added. "Makes me feel a mite safer and is very handy for cutting things as well."

"I've known a lot of people like that, who didn't get to travel much." Senku said. "Although since everything happened, I've been dragging them all over the place." He snickered.

"Can't claim that anymore." Their plans, as well, were going to lead to one hell of a trip when he got back..if he got back.

"That's the kind of thing my dad would say." He commented. "He was annoying like that." His tone was more fond than annoyed though.

"I'm glad. I think everyone should have one, they're incredibly useful. It's not the best for self-defense, but it's not nothing." Senku agreed. "But mostly, it's really annoying when you need to cut something and don't have anything on you."

She laughed at his comment about his dad saying stuff like that. "Guess that I just had to spend so much time looking for the bright side that it's become a habit."

"Knives are incredibly useful whatever they're for," Nell said, "so I thank you again for mine."

"If you ask me, I think he just enjoyed torturing me with his nonsense." Senku snorted, more amused than anything.

"Don't mention it. I don't have a lot of projects on my plate right now, so if you need something else, let me know. I can't stand doing nothing."

"Fathers can be like that," Nell said with a smile. It faded a bit when she thought of her father. It had been so long since she'd seen him. And he'd been willing to give her away to the Colonel to be one of his wives. But this wasn't the time to think of that so she shook her head and put her smile back on.

"What sort of things can you make?" she asked.

"Mine was really embarrassing. He's still tormenting me from beyond the grave." Senku snorted a little bit.

"Provided I can get the materials, just about anything." Senku said with a bit of a hum. "I studied a lot of science, and my practical experience has increased significantly in the last few years. My biggest project was designing and building a ship to travel to North America. Ah, if your place isn't like mine, there's a vast ocean between my country and the United States. I've made various medications, different kinds of food, a hydro electric plant..." He shook his head.

"Oh, I'm sorry for your loss," Nell said. "My father and I, well, we haven't talked for a long time, but at least I know he's there."

She considered for a moment. "What about making a structure for my plants? I could use some more room - vertically - for plants and such in the garden. For a place to start new plants or for smaller ones that need a little extra care."

"Thanks. He died while I was petrified. He lived a full life so..." He shrugged a little bit. It was good. The fact he missed him was not really a factor in that.

"A vertical planter? Shouldn't be too difficult. Not sure I have much wood left though, I'll have to check, and if not, I'll have to get some." Senku mused thoughtfully. "Haven't been to a place where I can get away with chopping down a tree in awhile."

The train was probably on to him.

"Still hard," Nell said softly. "But I'm glad he lived a full life."

She nodded. "Maybe I can find some on one of the worlds we go to. I don't really have much money, but I'd be happy to cook for you or make you some teas or lotions."

"I hadn't really thought about it until I found out." Senku admitted. "And there's nothing I can do about it."

It had been far too long, after all.

"I have points, but outside of that, if you see something, I've got my axe, so just let me know." Senku smiled. "Some new tea might be nice." He speculated. "Or food, I guess." He could make all of those things, but it was nice when someone else did it for him.

"I'm growing some herbs and such for teas," Nell said, "and I'm always happy to make you something. It's easier sometimes to make pastries, because for the more savory foods I'm kind of dependent on what the train gives us."

"Ah, well you can make pastries if you like, I'm sure Gen would enjoy them." He chuckled a little bit.

He wasn't a sweets person. "Sounds good. I have been having the teas I ordered."

"Gen's a friend of yours?" Nell asked. "I'm happy to make whatever. And I'll definitely put together a few nice teas for you to try."

"Ah, you haven't had a chance to meet him?" Senku asked with a smile. "He's my husband, actually."

"Oh! No, I haven't met him yet. I'd be happy to though!" It always gave Nell a little shock thinking of men marrying men or women marrying women - something totally condemned by the church. But then she remembered that she didn't have to worry about what they thought anymore and she honestly didn't see why it should matter to anyone except the ones being married.

"I'm sure he's a lovely person if you chose him."

If civilization had never fallen, there was a high probability that Senku and Gen wouldn't know each other, much less be married. It wouldn't have been acceptable. Whether or not it was actually acceptable, Senku hadn't cared, they did what they wanted.

"Can't miss him, he's got black and white hair. Genetic condition. He has a necklace like mine." He pulled his necklace out from under his clothes. "Matching band on his wrist too."

He snickered at that. "Lovely...I guess in his own way. He's more devious and a pain in my ass." It was said with a deep level of fondness and exasperation all at once.

Nell nodded. "Black and white hair, I can remember that."

She looked carefully at his necklace. "I've never seen anything quite like that. It's very interesting." She didn't mean it the way some might who'd say it was interesting because they didn't particularly like it, but wanted to be polite, she genuinely found it interesting. "Is there a meaning behind it?"

She couldn't help but chuckle a little as well. "Sometimes those are the best matches, I think. They sort of make you crazy, but you love them anyway."

"It's made of platinum." Senku explained. "And the symbols here are the ones for different astrological signs and constellations, playing to both our interests." He commetned blandly as an afterthought. "Despite my efforts to dissuade him from fortune telling."

"Yeah. I'm not the kind of person who would get along with someone who wasn't like him, I don't think. They just wouldn't be my type."

Fortune telling. Another thing completely forbidden by the church. Which made it kind of appealing to Nell, even if she didn't think there could be real truth to it. "A nice symbol for you both then," she said with a nod.

"Funny how sometimes a match seems to work better between people who at first glance seem awfully different."

Senku snickered a little bit, but he looked more happy than his sarcastic manner sometimes.

"Yeah, well, if things hadn't happened, and the world ended like it did, we likely would've never met. We're very different people and yet very alike." They complimented each other's skills well.

"My dad would've really liked him."

"I... never woulda met anyone like I have here, if the train hadn't sort of kidnapped me to here." She sipped at her hot drink for a moment. "And in a way, I'm kinda glad that I did. I mean, I wish I could be home, but this ain't -isn't - nearly as bad as I thought at first."

"I'm sure your dad would have liked him. 'Specially since he makes you'un so happy."

"Nah, it's not so bad, but that doesn't mean that I don't have to get back." Senku did have to get back, pretty desperately.

"He would've liked him on principle, I think. Not much point in thinking of what ifs though."

Nell nodded. "I understand that. If I don't get back soon the church will take my house and land and I'll never get it back. And that will make them even more sure that they own me as well."

"Sounds like a pain in the ass, that. I'm not worried about that at least. My body or whatever is probably keeping my house warm." He snorted. "Well, observatory." He clarified.

"No one owns anyone, or at least, they shouldn't if you ask me. Can't say I know much about your world." He admitted.

The Waking of Neran

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