EVENT: #HIGHENERGY

[cuddlemods]

EVENT: #HIGHENERGY

It's that time of year again — when the temperature starts to dip down, making way for thick cable-knit sweaters and coffee drinks flavored like bright orange gourds to pop up around every corner, and the long days of summer fade out in favor of early twilights and cool autumnal breezes. That's right, it's nearly fall in Cadelle, and you may have noticed the city's busy bees looking a little busier than usual around the city center. The Energy Festival takes place in time with the changing of the seasons — a time when energy is high in the air, ripe for the harvesting; it's a time-honored tradition in the city of Cadelle where citizens gather together and work towards doing good deeds for our fine city and for cities near and far. In keeping with the city's emphasis on charity and compassion, citizens both new and old will find a variety of opportunities to give back, all while enjoying the very best that the season has to offer. ▸ Give thanks for good fortune, health, or friendship at the nightly lantern release. Decorate your own lantern at an arts & crafts booth sponsored by Colortopia, the local art supply store, or purchase a hand-crafted lantern from local merchants — all proceeds are donated to the city's volunteer organizations! At night, meet your fellow citizens on the beach to release your lanterns up into the milky night sky. At last, you might just see the light! ▸ Enjoy a sweet treat, like creamy white mooncakes filled with the season's harvest or a tart glass of freshly pressed apple cider. If sugar and spice isn't your bag, dive into something savory — the city's food venues have come out in full force to showcase their new fall menus, which feature such city favorites as creamy pumpkin soups, hearty meat pies, and other stick-to-your-ribs comfort foods. ▸ Make like a tree in autumn and shed your leaves at the clothing donation drive! Come drop off your gently-used garments in exchange for tokens, redeemable throughout the festival for souvenirs, treats, and more! You can even browse the sorted racks of your fellow citizens' donations and find some new digs of your very own! You never know what you might find — good or bad. (Please, no intimate apparel.) ▸ Share your talents at a variety of volunteer-hosted giving circles. From knitting and quilting blankets for the children's wing at the hospital to sorting donated canned goods for the food pantry and soup kitchen to simply offering a helping hand in carrying heavy boxes wherever they might need to go, your time and energy are always appreciated! There are plenty of volunteer citizens around to point you in the right direction... or, at least, what they think is the right direction. Fingers crossed! Of course, good deeds aren't for everyone, and the city administration has certainly noticed a particular proclivity in its newest citizens for the newly discovered — er, alternative means of energy generation. (Ahem. You know what we're talking about. Don't make us say it.) Not wanting to pass up such a perfectly-timed opportunity to maximize on this discovery, the administration has tasked sweet, innocent Flora & Cornelius (the poor dears) with determining an appropriate venue for encouraging this unique form of energy generation. While they're not exactly sure where the idea came from, they're delighted to announce the city's very first Togetherness Tent! Hosted in the city's smaller Eastern Gardens, there's plenty to see and do for those that may prefer something a little less charitable... ▸ Feel free to explore the OUTDOOR SEATING AREAS — there are plenty of places to relax and get comfortable, with both single chairs and larger booths all around. With a cool breeze in the daytime and a roaring firepit in the chillier night hours, and a carefully selected catalogue of instrumental music to enjoy, your hosts hope you'll be plenty comfortable while you chat and get to know each other! ▸ Just beyond the outdoor area, you'll find an assortment of beautifully decorated BEDOUIN TENTS. Some are completely open to the public, with various couches and pillows and comfortable blankets in the main spaces, and others offer more private, curtained-off areas for the shyer (please read some air quotes around "shyer") sets. ▸ If you're not much for sitting pretty, or need a little liquid courage before you start exploring, there's always the OPEN BAR, where talented (and attractive) bartenders will mix up anything under the sun with a smile. Feel free to linger, or take your drink to go. Request a little extra something in your drink (and be extra nice to the bartenders), and they just might be able to add a drop of a golden substance to your beverage that makes you even more keen to meet new people — and maybe even a little braver, too. ▸ Just like a mouse with a cookie, your hosts know that any good drink needs something savory (or sweet!) to go with it. Just beyond the bar, you'll find an expansive display of SNACK TABLES, each filled to the brim with city specialties sure to encourage a feeling of goodwill and togetherness in anyone who eats them! ▸ The center table, decorated with a simple cream cloth, features your standard party fare. Finger foods are the name of the game here, with everything from your grandmother's favorite spinach dip and vegetable crudites to upscale bites like fried ravioli filled with only the richest cheeses. Sprinkled around the table, you'll also find more classics like tea sandwiches, petit fours, and other party planner staples. Everything here is perfectly safe to eat, and shouldn't offer any side effects other than a potential stomach ache if you decide to overindulge. ▸ The table to the far left, however, is a little cooler. Decorated with a rich navy blue cloth, the table is full of small bites and chilled drinks all catering to a very specific, very cool theme. Whether you try Flora's favorite chocolate spearmint cupcake (please don't tell her the icing looks like toothpaste) or a frosty glass of blueberry apple cider, each bite is sure to leave you tingling from new sensations. Treats and sweets from this table will, depending on what's chosen, offer tantalizing side-effects ranging from a literal chill in the air to phantom touches that encourage the eater to seek out the source, or even the sensation of time slowing down around you — eat too much at once, and these side-effects might just overwhelm you! Be sure to read the menu carefully before you choose your bite. ▸ On the far right, draped in a deep red cloth, lies the last table. Like its blue-hued sister, this table is themed around heat, with a variety of items sure to tempt even the shyest into exploring their inner spice champion. Cornelius' favorite cinnamon sweet potato cupcake takes center stage here, but you'll also find other sweet and savory snacks, as well as both hot and cold beverages like the classic hot toddy or crimson-hued sangria to wet your whistle. Items sampled from this table will provide encouragements ranging from a pleasant flush to sudden desires creeping up from your subconscious, or perhaps the immediate urgency of a well-known battery bunny. Forget to pace yourself on these small plates, and you may wind up moving too fast for even a speedster to keep up. Be sure not to speed-read over the menu before loading your plate. (We're looking at you, Mr. Allen.) As may be expected, Flora and Cornelius aren't exactly the most experienced at planning a tasteful, sensual affair in Cuddle City, so they've enlisted the help of caterers from a nearby city that specialize in aphrodisiac cuisine. However... they may have failed to overlook that those available at short notice aren't always the most qualified for the job. There's a reason, after all, that they're available when others aren't. The caterers certainly meant well, and they did their best to provide the high quantities requested within the ridiculously short time frame allocated, but consistency isn't exactly their best attribute. Some batches may have come out a little more concentrated than others, while others may lack any oomph whatsoever. Eat a bite-sized chocolate spearmint mini cupcake and maybe your touch will have a pleasant, icy tingle to the recipient, or maybe you'll smooch them and it'll be like a scene out of A Christmas Story. Pop a spicy Red Hots bite-sized cupcake into your mouth and warm your companion right up, or maybe you'll just singe a handprint into their clothes. It's like Russian roulette. With cupcakes. Normal, right? It's like Forrest Gump would say. Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get. In this case, life's like a giant batch of cupcakes, and you never know which one's gonna make you want to tear your clothes off. Howdy, cuddlers, and welcome to your first Energy Festival! This is the first of a quarterly event series, themed around the four seasons and timed to align with the solar calendar. While the city certainly emphasizes the charitable options available in the town square, and we are thrilled to see what sort of hijinks will ensue, we know there will be plenty of excitement (and plenty of questions) on the Togetherness Tent and the opportunities it provides. As a reminder, consent is extremely important both ICly with the city administration and OOCly with our player guidelines. Characters will have full opportunity to know the effects of anything they consume, as labels will be available as well as descriptive menus above each table. There are also NPC'd catering staff as well as party hosts available, should a character have further questions about a specific item's effects or ingredients. However, as players, it is always up to you how thoroughly you wish to have your character read the fine print before diving right in. Should you wish to have your character ignore the menu and all printed warnings, eat an entire plate of cinnamon candies and wind up feeling an irresistable urge to disrobe, you're certainly welcome to do so! We simply ask that you keep in mind our policies on consent-based actions, and should your character's urges involve another character, that you obtain the appropriate IC and OOC permissions before moving forward, and please remember to utilize any content warnings in your subject lines if applicable. If you have any further questions specific to this event, we encourage you to ask away on our QUESTIONS COMMENT here in this post. If you have general questions, or prefer a more private venue, our GENERAL INBOX (and SCREENED INBOX) is always available for you. In addition, if you've got an idea for a future event, feel free to drop us a line at our EVENTS SUGGESTION POST. We hope you have tons of fun out there this month, cuddlers, and we'll see ya around!

Comments

▸ EVENT QUESTIONS.

[cuddlemods( as admin)]

RAISE YOUR HAND.

Any questions? We've (probably) got answers! If there's anything we can answer about this event, whether it's specific to your unique plotting dreams or more of a general gameplay inquiry, please don't hesitate to let us know! We know there's a lot to see and do, and we're here for you to make this event one from your wildest dreams... or nightmares, given the temptations around every corner. Let us know, cuddlers! — xoxo The Cuddle City Mods

Vincent Nigel-Murray | ota, m/f for smooches etc, will match format

[onstepnine]

• treats time

[One thing Vincent quickly learned to appreciate when he moved across the ocean for graduate school was Americans' enthusiasm for fall foods. His first try left him thinking sure, this is nice, but it's not worth the obsession. His second try had left him more sold on the idea and getting regular cups of pumpkin spice coffee and sweet potato pie and all the rest until winter fell. By July of the following year, he'd been excited for fall to start.

So this is very nice.

He can be found having a cup of hot apple cider, spiced to unbelievable perfection. Thank you Cadelle for dragging him from death's doorstep and not only giving him the chance to live, but to live so comfortably while he works for his wish.]

This is reallyy good. Have you tried some?

[He is talking to you. With a smile. c: Won't you say hi?]



• cupcaked courage

[He knew what he was getting into with the cupcake, and he figured he could probably use the boost to his confidence. (Getting shot down immediately by Angela had been a harsh reminder that he was going to have to adjust his goals when it came to flirting. Sure, he was used to dating older women, but in a new place, the old standards needed a little tweaking.) He didn't plan on having a cupcake that was, well, a bit too full of courage, but that's... not a bad thing, right?

His cheeks are flushed pink when he goes up to you and compliments your hair if you're a woman.

If you're not, he'll remark,] I don't think the red table's too well labeled.



• chocolate chill

[Right, that was too much courage, so how about a chocolate mint? It chills him out very nicely.

So nicely that he retreats over to one of the open tents to stretch out across one of the couches.

He's not tired, but he's feeling relaxed and content, smiling languidly and eyes half open.]

cupcakessss

[dedikated]

( Guess who you miiiight have already said that to. Kate just looks amused though, the effects of the alcohol additions and the warmth of the crisps she's been munching making it all the more easy to smile at that statement, leaning in slightly. )

Could always dye your hair pink if you like it so much.

kate galloway. ota.

[dedikated]

one/ like i never had that whiskey in my veins.

the open bar; open to all
( Rules of Cadelle: if there's a bar, there's probably a pink haired woman sat there. Tonight the customary bright hoodie and black jeans combination switched out for a more relaxed look, hair falling loosely over her shoulders as she leans on the bar, glancing over the multitude of drinks available before opting, rather shockingly for-

A beer.

Yeah. She's not always the most adventurous with her drinks. But when the bartender talks about their extra shot, for a bit more courage, her brow quirks: ) That what booze do anyway?

( It's a little stronger than that, they explain, and she shrugs. )

Sure. Whatever.

( And that is the story of how one (1) Kate Galloway came to be drinking something which seems to unwind the tension that's almost always present in her shoulders, her expression visibly brighter by the time she's halfway through it. In fact, if you happen to be in range by that point or later, she'll come right up to you, bottle in hand and an expression that's somehow friendly without necessarily smiling. )

You tried that extra shot yet?

( Okay, so it's not the greatest opener, but for once she doesn't sound emotionally dead. Baby steps. )

two/ i need to know the taste that's on your lips.

the snack bar; open to all
( The perfect accompaniment to alcohol? A cucumber sandwich. Served on brown bread, of course. She hasn't had one in months, okay? Let a girl live.

Of course, it's boring if you just stick to finger sandwiches, no matter how delicious they are. So, naturally, with her third (or probably higher) beer in hand, Kate wanders to the tables at the left and right, casting a critical glance over the foods offered and a briefer one over the menu explaining everything.

She samples a couple of spicy chilli crisps tossed into a bowl on the edge of the right hand table and the warmth isn't just the burn of spice in her mouth, but something which feels like taking a hot drink in the face of these cooler nights.

If you happen to be close by, Kate will likely tug on your clothes lightly to get your attention. )

You tried this?

( She may not necessarily point to the aforementioned crisps, may ask your opinion on a cupcake or something from the left hand table, too. )

three/ and your touch is like the only thing that i will ever need.

the bedouin tents; open to all
( If Kate has a choice, that choice will usually be to be active. Doing something. But even a superhuman with near boundless seeming energy has to relax, to rest. Especially after indulging in maybe one too many of those infused drinks. They feel good. And they've been slowly making her friendlier throughout the night, which is really why they're all here. The whole be good people and you get what you want shit going on.

A pleasant buzz flows through her veins as she flops onto a couch - or maybe a lap, dealer's choice - and stretches her arms above her head, tugging off the plaid shirt she wears and tying it arounf her waist. There's enough booze in her system to make her feel warm, especially in these cosily lit tents, and she leans into the person next to her (or the lap she's sitting on). )

Not bad.

( Yes. What a masterful line that is. :| )

surprise combo of 2 and 3 ok w/e

[novacaine]

( will, thankfully, somehow manages to find enough coordination within himself to lift his beer — albeit a third gone, and definitely looking a little more golden — up and out of harm's way when a certain tiny pink-haired girl decides to make herself right at home on will's lap, seemingly appearing out of the fucking blue. while drenching himself and kate in beer probably wouldn't be the worst thing in the world for people like them — well, being a dick to the girl that you like and spilling a beer on her is probably a hard deal breaker.

right, that time he was a dick to kate because he was so caught up in his own shit. as though he could forget — the self-imposed reclusion, despite the meek promise that they'd talk soon. will's been working his ass off to drag himself out of that hole, though — which is probably why he ended up at this fucking wild ass tent in the first place, the reason why he intends to drink himself silly.

and have a hot girl on top of him, something that he's so fucking grateful for, and suddenly she procures a tiny, bite-sized cupcake from somewhere (a plate set next to them, obviously, but he's a little fucking distracted at the moment, thanks) and flaunting it right in front of his mouth. ) Nah, I haven't tried shit yet. Any good?

Kieren Walker | will match format. OTA except for last prompt!

[depressiveoptimist]

Lantern release

[Unlike some of the other events that were planned for later, this was something that Kieren felt totally comfortable in. He had decorated a couple lanterns; one was generic, covered in scenes of a sunset and a green valley; he had it hanging from his belt. It was for anyone who might have forgotten theirs, or if something went wrong and needed a new one (after all, using fire to put lanterns up in the air meant some might catch on fire).

His own, though, was decorated with images of Amy. Bright and shining...it seemed only fitting that he would put a lantern up in the air for her--she would love it. And after all, he was here for her, anyways.

Reaching the beach, he smiled up at the stars, glancing over at his neighbor, realizing that he didn't know how to actually do this thing.]

So I have the decorating the lantern thing down--but how do we actually put it into the air?

Snack Tables

[In the tents, Kieren had to wonder at all the stuff they had. It was...impressive, to say the least. He wandered over near the snack tables, reading all the labels, eyebrows going up a bit more after reach each one. At least they had normal food for people, too. He wondered, absently, if he could have asked for them to put out some sheep's brain for him, but Kieren didn't like any level of losing control while undead. Even that extra sense of euphoria just...wouldn't sit right.

Still, he was happy that other people could get a chance to enjoy themselves. Glancing over at someone filling their plate, he gave a warm smile.]

At least someone can enjoy eating the food.

Closed to Credence

[Kieren had invited Credence to come with him to this; since most of his friends had left, he knew that he was feeling down and getting out of the apartments was probably the best idea. This celebration was a bit more...racy than both of them were used to, but given what happened in Eudio it wasn't that much different than some of the parties, really.

He's waiting outside the tents for Credence; he probably should have suggested that he pick the other man up but he was still--well, he was still unsure what they were doing. He was usually willing to jump in feet first, but after what happened in Eudio, he was a bit more hesitant. Kieren just...wanted not to screw things up, sometimes. ]

[proscribed]

[After everyone had gone, Credence felt that there was little reason to go out more than he had to. He'd never been particularly social, but the desire to be away from others was stronger than ever before. Kieren was the exception. He knew about Miss Tina and Mister Graves, even if he never had the chance to meet them.

When he asks him to come along to a party, he dresses in his nicer clothing, and tries to tame the curls that have grown in. He waves at Kieren when he spots him, instantly perking up. There are shadows under his eyes and it's obvious he's been miserable, but he doesn't want to put all of that on Kieren.]

Hi. [He's not sure how to greet the other man, so he hesitates before leaning in to press a soft kiss to Kieren's cheek.] You look really nice.

[Credence, too, had no idea what they were doing. It felt good to be around Kieren. He enjoyed his company and the conversations they had were among some of the most interesting he's had. But he doesn't know what they are and is afraid to ask.]

sara lance, ota af.

[leaguer]

ＰＡＲＴ Ｉ： ＢＥＩＮＧ Ａ ＧＯＯＤ ＳＡＭＡＲＩＴＡＮ

( if one wanted to think of the least likely place a deadly former assassin might spend some time at a shindig like this one, it would probably be at the knitting circle.

but — sara lance continues to be full of surprises as always, and ends up gravitating to the circle made up of mostly natives of cadelle both young and old, huddled over stretches of knit wool in a multitude of colors and chitchatting pleasantly. it's lowkey and kind of calm and maybe, just maybe, it'll be nice to learn a new skill that's a little outside of her wheelhouse.

once she's convinced that she's got the whole process down pat, she takes her cute little knitting needles and makes her way over to the large bin full of balls of yarn, all donated, in about every hue of every color she can think of. it's almost an overwhelming amount of colors and, out of idle habit, the knitting needles are twirled expertly in her hands, like they're miniaturized versions of her detachable bo staff, or maybe one of the daggers she's got hidden somewhere she's not revealing. good to know that these things could probably be used to stab someone, if she wanted to.

not that she wants to. if anything, she wants to stab herself for being so damn indecisive. but she maybe looks like she's showing off, even if she doesn't mean to as she peers down into the bin, brows furrowed. casually, towards her fellow knitter-to-be: ) This really shouldn't be the hardest choice I've made this month.

ＰＡＲＴ ＩＩ： （ＳＨＡＭＥＬＥＳＳＬＹ） ＢＥＩＮＧ Ａ ＨＥＡＵＸ™

( listen. there's no use in denying it. sara lance is into these kinds of things, ever since she went to her first one in eudio what feels like a veritable eternity ago. what could be better than eating delicious foods, laying amongst a shit ton of pillows and cushions, and cozying up with an old friend, or maybe even a stranger?

feeling good's the name of the game — well, okay, no, helping the city is the name of the game, but this kind of thing is as up sara's alley as saving the damn world, or maybe even dying over and over again, is. it's inevitable that she ends up here, grabs herself a glass of whiskey with a little somethin' somethin' slipped into it, and she lounges on an overstuffed sofa inside the tent, black crop top showing a peek of muscle as she takes a long, languid sip of her liquor, waits for some company to arrive — it always does.

sara's willing to indulge in some of the so-called "experimental edibles" (god, could this place be any cheesier?), but she's likely to follow her conversation partner's lead — that is, until she gets too impatient, pops a mini cupcake or two into her mouth, offers a purposeful quirk of her eyebrow, a challenge.

bring it on, cadelle. )

ＰＡＲＴ ＩＩＩ： ＷＩＬＤＣＡＲＤＩＮＧ ＩＴ ＵＰ

( orrrr feel free to stumble upon sara just about anywhere at the energy festival, be it chowing down on maple donuts, sorting clothing and begrudging people for donating what has to be their ugliest piece of clothing, or anything you'd like; i also would love to plot stuff out at frickin / canary#4628! also, screw timelines, i will legit do 1,000 thirsty threads at one time because that's who i am as a person. )

p2

[wingedpriestess]

[ Small plate loaded with safe choices for now, Kendra saw Sara and essentially made a beeline towards her. ]

I come bearing tea sandwiches and petit fours a plenty. Mind if I join you?

[ She's still getting used to being in the city- still getting used to everything that happened just before she decided to take a little vacation away from it all. But she was grateful for the familiar faces she's found.

Sorry if you were waiting for someone to come snuggle up to you, Sara. Instead you get this still pretty heartbroken birb.]

kimberly hart • open

[recoined]

❱❱ lantern festival

( it's not exactly the hippest spot on the block, but kimberly's got a lot to be grateful for these days, and color has never been a thing she's shied away from. she spends a full afternoon at the arts and crafts table, painstakingly decorating a full-sized white lantern with abstract patterns in five specific colors, the occasional silver and black lightning bolt dotted between. headphones remain lodged in her ears while she works, head bobbing along to the beat even as her mouth purses in concentration; plenty of less-focused artisans come and go while she remains at the table, and it's only when kimberly's finally satisfied that she pushes away from the table, once-white lantern now covered with colorful decorations across every available square inch of space.

feel free to join her, so long as you don't try to steal her markers, or just share your commentary on her artistic choices.

later that night, she ventures back to the beach on her scooter, lantern carefully tucked between her knees as she navigates through the streets. there's a larger crowd near the boardwalk, gathered around a collection of professionally decorated lanterns, but she opts instead to linger on the beachfront where it's a bit quieter; it gives her opportunity to enjoy the sounds of the waves as they crash against the sand, wading in to let the surf lap at her bare feet, up to her ankles, and to watch from afar as the crowd lights their lanterns in unison, sending them up into the sky where they float for a while before burning up over the water. )

It's pretty, isn't it, ( kimberly murmurs to no one in particular, still unlit lantern clutched in her hands. ) I... probably should have brought a lighter.

( you don't happen to have one, do you? if not a lighter, perhaps you've got another idea on how to launch this thing? )

❱❱ that tent thing

( the togetherness tent, unsurprisingly, appeals quite strongly for kimberly. she doesn't hesitate to sprawl out, carving herself a comfortable spot on a particularly large ottoman in the outdoor seating area, perfectly positioned for chatting with anyone who passes by or comes to sit. should you not want to join her on her ottoman, there are plenty of couches and chairs within reach, and those that are too far are easy enough to pull across the grass.

when conversations take a lull, kimberly wanders over towards the bar, where the large menu absorbs her attention for minutes at a time. should someone sidle up next to her, she'll smile, closing the menu with a soft thump. ) There's too many choices. What are you getting? ( really, she'll probably just get something fruity, some girly drink that tastes more like its mixer than its booze, but suggestions are always appreciated.

but as far as the snack bar and tempting private tents are concerned... well, that'll have to wait for the right company. she's been promised an evening of exploration, but the other details are still a mystery for her at the moment. ghost rider, where are you hiding? )

❱❱ wildcard

( ain't nobody got time to literally write up every starter under the sun, even though i really really wanted to. kimberly will happily accompany you just about anywhere in the festival that you'd like to go, so feel free to wildcard me — snack carts, clothing drive (it should be gross but, you know what, she's heard thrift shop. if macklemore can rock it, so can kimberly hart) or wherever you wanna be! or, y'know, feel free to holler at ya girl if you need to — semicolons or supergirl#2740. let's be weird. )

▸ we're all in this together

[acuerdo]

[robbie's still not sure what to make of the togetherness tent or why there'd been a sign hanging from the front that had featured the image of a brown jersey cow and a rhode island red hen. but he'd promised kimberly that they would go as soon as the festival had been announced. so there he was, feeling maybe a little overdressed with the jacket, but if it makes kim a little more inclined to get together (moreso than normal) he's willing to sacrifice a little comfort for something better.

and hopefully something better can be found in at the snack bar. robbie's not sure that he particularly believes what the signs he's been carefully reviewing say, so he picks up one of the hot toddies from the red table, takes a healthy swig and nods appreciatively.]

Would you like a drink, babe?

linda park • come at me.

[scovilles]

➤ "togetherness"

( missed connections™ being what they are, it's no surprise that linda winds up skipping right over Girl Scout Central and makes a beeline instead for the more grown-up options available in the horribly named togetherness tent. it's probably also no surprise to anyone that recognizes her small five foot something frame — or anyone who bothered to read her okcuddle profile, for that matter — that she bypasses the creme and blue in favor of the tantalizingly hot options available on a table covered in red.

truly a revelation. much shock, very wow, such a concept.

she manages to resist the cupcake towers at first, but the overflowing bowl of what looks suspiciously like her childhood favorite candy is one temptation she can't quite pass up. maybe popping a handful in her mouth at once wasn't the greatest idea. not that they're spicy, per se, but... well, that's a lot of candy to chew, and choking is a hazard.

a hazard typically avoided with a hefty gulp of a cool beverage. like the sangria, so neatly on display within arms' reach; a quick pour, a swallow, and tragedy's neatly sidestepped — wait. shit. what was it the sign had said? use caution in combining experimental edibles? just take a deep breath, park. in and out. in and out. in and —

goddamnit. now she's breathing literal fire. )

Well, that's — oops — something.

( how you doin' )

➤ wildcard

( tbh linda's going to spend 99% of her time in the tent, shamelessly meeting her cuddle quota with anyone who seems worth chatting up. but, you know, if you want something special or unique or whatever, let's make it happen! the usual chatting venues are here for you. #lazy )

[leaguer]

And here I was coming over here to tell you that you look hot.

( since sara was, Obviously, standing near the snack tables when she caught a glimpse of linda park in the flesh and found herself appreciating her view just past a tower full of itty bitty little cupcakes.

except then miss park breathed literal fire and sara can't not go over there, flop down on the couch next to linda, sling an arm over the back of it, hand grazing linda's shoulder.

shit gets weirder and weirder every day in this place. )

Way to take it to a whole new level.

Armitage Hux | OTA

[neutronium]

Bar

[Hux should have probably done something at the festival, but instead, he had gone straight to the tent, intent on the bar. With a bit of charm (and a few dollars extra in tip), he was able to get the golden elixir in his whiskey. He knew that he should probably avoid any of those substances; he disliked not being in control in any way, and this was a quick way for him to feel that sort of thing slipping. But the truth was, he was struggling to make contact with people. He knew he was a colder sort, one that was more uptight than those who were more open. But he was trying. Hence he was here, drinking.

He was dressed in one of his suits agagain, his hair slicked back.

Once the warmth started to slide through him, he felt himself relaxing, more than willing to raise a glass and smile at a stranger. And at least look a bit less dangerous than before.]

Tent Area

[Hux is sitting on one of the large couches, looking actually a bit--relaxed, which is more than anyone might say about him before. He has another drink in his hand (again hit with the elixir), and a plate of the cinnamon cupcakes in front of him. He's eaten half of one, and actually has a bit of color to his cheeks now, because of it.

As someone who is rarely warm, he couldn't not choose the heat over the cold?

If someone sits next to him, he'll smile and pick up the plate of cupcakes, offering.]

Don't make me eat these alone. Come on, have one.

Baby | OTA

[killertrack]

one. it's all about good deeds

[ If there's one thing about the apron Baby was handed when he makes it to the soup kitchen, it's its accuracy. Baby's definitely no slouch in the kitchen, but he wouldn't call himself anything exceptional, either. Well, his pancakes are pretty stellar, but that's about it. So he doesn't protest as he puts on the apron and dons some gloves, helping out giving out food, and later, preparing bags for people to take home for later.

It feels good, to do something good, for someone else. Helps assuage the guilt and the feelings of selfishness he's been feeling since arriving in Cadelle; leaving people behind, doing this wish thing for others but mainly for himself, really. So helping out feels right, like this is what he's meant to do here.

He's doing it very enthusiastically, and when he's asked, he jumps at the chance of helping out hauling goods around. He's carrying a box of tinned beans, not looking ahead, earbuds firmly in his ears and music loud, when he bumps into someone. ]

Oh! Sorry!

two. light in the darkness

[ He didn't exactly give himself to time to decorate a lantern, but it doesn't really matter. All he does is write a names on the one he purchases, mom and dad and joseph and debbie and doc and darling, while in the car, parked at the beach. He sits there in his car for a while, just looking out at the people letting up lanterns into the night sky.

He takes a deep breath before walking out of the car and up along the beach, a little way away from the main crowd as he lights up the candle in his own lantern, Massive Attack playing in his ears. ]

I'm sorry, [ He says, more to himself than anyone around, as hot air fills up his lantern, carrying out the names of those he lost, those he hurt, those he left behind. ]

three. not quite camping

[ The tent setup is so completely foreign to Baby that he has to spend quite a while just walking around and looking at things, reading labels and making sure he's not going to be taking something that would leave him feel absolutely fucked. He's not one to lose control, and he doesn't want to regret anything.

Of course, he's hoping for someone in particular to show up. Someone that has grown very special to him in recent weeks, someone he can't spend enough time with. Someone he's definitely been wanting to get much, much closer to.

He fills up a plate with different little things from all tables, settling outside near the fire. When he finally dares, he goes for one of the spearmint cupcakes, immediately feeling like there's fingers carding through his hair, a soft, cool breeze that rises goosebumps all over, even though he's wearing his comfiest jumper.

Well. This is interesting. He shuffles a little closer to the fire, shivering - not really from the cold. ]

four. wildcard

[ Go for it!!!! If you wanna chat I am at ellievolia! ]

one.

[bikinimail]

[ Jen can't cook. She's never had to cook for herself, at least besides boiling spaghetti or grilling a grilled cheese. So she volunteers to sort boxes of donated canned goods. Organization doesn't take any natural skill, after all.

She's got her head bowed over a box of cans of creamed corn, counting them off one by one, when someone bumps into her. ]

Oh--. No, yeah, it's okay. Don't worry about it.

[ She sees the big box he's carrying, and moves to help take it, thinking it must be heavy. ]

Are those beans? Those go over here.

elijah moore | open; m/m ship pref

[allucina]

i. chasing visions of our future, one day we'll reveal the truth

[Eli seemed to think that any of the celebrations here in Cadelle were the kinds of things he needed to throw himself into with a lot of enthusiasm; maybe it was because back in High Tower the things they celebrated were entirely superficial- the changing of seasons certainly wasn't one of them. The world Eli knew had been ravaged too much by natural disaster to have stable seasons these days and life inside the towers was mostly synthetic. The Illusionist himself hadn't ventured outside of High Tower before, so for him the idea of celebrating the coming autumn was interesting.

He's a creative soul, so he spends a long time decorating a paper lantern to be released that night. Before he'd been able to create illusions, his mother had taught him how to draw- something the two of them shared pleasure in, the fact their augmentations both came from the creative. He was pretty focused on the process, ignoring the splashes of watercolour paint he was getting on his hands and worse, completely oblivious to a deep purple streak of the paint above his eyebrow.

Not having much of a knowledge of seasonal changes or even non-regulated temperatures meant that for someone like Eli dressing for the weather wasn't always an instinctive thing. It was chilly enough out that a t-shirt wasn't quite cutting it for him tonight so at the clothing donation drive the young man barely gives you a chance to set down that sweater before trailing his hands over it and handing over a modest cash donation, eagerly pulling the warm garment over his head.]

ii. setting fire to our insides for fun, collecting names of the lovers that went wrong

[Eli didn't take long to make his way over to the more intimate sector of the festival. It was curiosity that brought him towards the tents and inclination that kept him there. He spends some time at the open bar, sipping on a tall glass of liquid courage that seemed to warm him up as it went down. Before long he was taking off the sweater he'd purchased earlier and tying it around his waist instead while he sips at his drink containing that special golden syrup that seemed to make him want to be even more outgoing than his usual self.

He didn't have the initiative to avoid the red table, through the years no-one had ever thought to instil fear of the unknown into the illusionist and he found himself devouring one of the cinnamon cupcakes, it was surprisingly warm on the mouth and even more so when it settled in his stomach, like a solitary coal. The heat rises over a few bated moments, a light warm glow coming to his cheeks as he turns around to the person closest to him.] Are you hot? 'Cause I'm really hot... like, burning up.

iii. we are the reckless we are the wild youth.

[Wildcard option! Any other way you want Eli? Have at it!]

i.

[killertrack]

[ Baby: errand boy. That's his role for the day, and so he doesn't protest when he's asked to go get a box of clothes from the clothing drive to bring to the soup kitchen, to allow whoever needs to grab a warm garment as well as some food; two birds in one stone.

He recognizes the guy he talked to the other day immediately when he walks past the arts and crafts table, arms laden with a heavy box of coats and scarves. He can't help but stop, putting the box for a moment as he gives the work of art Eli's slaving over a look. Then, with a smile: ]

You got a - [ He gestures to his own forehead, meaning the paint on Eli's. ]

thom creed | open; m/m shipping pref

[sanator]

i. last night i dreamt that somebody loved me

[Thom seemed to be getting more and more familiar with having an active social life. While before, in his old life, the only social interactions he had were through school, work and then his life as a superhero- now it seemed that every week there was something new for Thom to be engaged with; his circle of friends and acquaintances had practically tripled here in Cadelle and he couldn't complain about it, it left him happy and comfortable in this new place.

It doesn't take him long to find the food venues where he sits down on a nearby bench with a steaming bowl of pumpkin soup, the warmth of it combating the chill in the air. When someone sits opposite him on the bench Thom perks up, a smile on his features.] Hey... you wanna try some of this? Its really good! [Smol weirdo child used to work at a soup-kitchen diner-style thing so he has no qualms sharing his food.]

ii. So, tell me how long before the last one.

[Thom definitely wasn't the kind of boy to be one-hundred percent comfortable in the togetherness tent but he'd been in Cadelle long enough to know that this place was all about taking him out of his comfort zone so he made his way over anyway. He made his way straight to the bar, having learned that he was more of a fan of alcohol than he'd anticipated being. The attractive bartender left him blushing though, fumbling his way through some kind of drinks order which must've made the man pity him, handing Thom over a rich coloured glass of something, a shimmering drop of gold being dripped into the glass because according to the bartender Thom really needed it.

Before long Thom finds himself more confident than usual, a smile on his face and an inclination to talk to just about anyone concerning just about anything, animated during conversations that normally he wouldn't have much a say in either way.

Its that same confidence that takes him to the blue table, where Thom makes the mistake of drinking a glass of blueberry cider like a man in the desert, a beverage that seems to leave him cold- his breath puffing out in front of his face, leaving him a little shocked even as the world hangs a little around him. He makes his way over to a couch, regardless of whether or not its occupied and seems to draw in on himself a little.] S-so... cold- [He says it with chattering teeth, clearly in need of a hug to warm him up.]

iii. and tell me how long before the right one.

[Wild card! Any other situations you wanna see Thom in during the festival? Go wild!]

vasquez | ota

[quinientos]

i. the golden ticket in a drink

[ Now that Vasquez doesn't actually think that people here are going to turn him in for a bounty, he's started to be a little better, a little nicer. True, he's still not going to be a paragon of virtue like others in the world, but he's able to smile with the townsfolk, make conversation, even be polite and his version of charming. It's why he's been sipping a very delicious drink that's making him feel, well, even more inclined to seek people out.

It's a strange difference for a man whose only friend for months had been a rotting corpse, but he's buoyed by the warmth and the exhilaration that he doesn't even question it, just lets suspicion start to melt away off him like water rolling off his back. He's even smiling at people who are passing by instead of lowering his hat to avoid eye contact.

It's a brave new world for him. ]

ii. he ain't heavy, he's a box

[ On his way into the strange little festival, Vasquez had stopped almost instantly when he'd nearly run into someone struggling with a box that looked heavier than their whole being. Quickly, he'd figured out that people were moving things around to the soup kitchen. Trying to dismiss the humiliation of not even realizing this place had something like that, he's quick to want to make up for it.

With his shoulder still on the mend, there's an ache to carrying the boxes, but better him than some of the younger ones or smaller ones who strained to do them in more trips. By the time he makes a few trips there and back, he does need a break, though, unknotting his bandanna as he settles to drink some water, watching people as they go towards the soup kitchen for food, rest, safety.

Massaging his aching bicep, he wonders if any of this will actually make a difference, but right now, he has to think that it will, even if it's not freeing a small town from its oppressor. ]

iii. whatever you say

[ Wildcard! Find Vasquez anywhere, probably pitching in quietly, taking breaks for his arm, or help him navigate the food table. ]

ii.

[myownwoman]

[ gaby looks up when someone offers to take the box she was struggling to heave off the table and she steps back almost immediately. she'd thought, when she'd been watching them move boxes earlier, that they were probably too big for her but she'd thought to give it a try anyway. ]

Thank you.

[ maybe she should have taken one of the boxes that were lighter, filled with crackers instead of cans. he is admittedly much taller and larger than she is so maybe he will have better luck. ] I can show you where it goes, if you'd like?

Trenton | OTA, will match styles etc!

[inshallah]

Lantern Release

[ There were more than a few activities that Trenton's not particularly sure she'd be open to taking a part in but the site of the arts and crafts booth and the lantern decorating is one that she feels a sort of childish draw to. So, she spends a good amount of time working on her own. She is, of course, thankful and thoughtful of a lot of things. Her lantern perhaps doesn't look the most traditional. Instead of colorful depictions there's mostly verses and sayings written over it and simple designs to decorate her lantern. She's more than willing to talk during the decorating process if anyone asked.

Later on the beach it's sort of a peaceful feeling to release the lanterns and watch them floating up into the sky. She'll stay there in the cool air until there's no more to see.

No matter what point you see her, she'll be dressed in a long dark green shirt with brown paints. Her hijab is zig zagged design that matched both colors. ]

Sweet Treat

[ Admittedly, Trenton doesn't often indulge in sweets but as she's going around the festival the smell of apple cider is too much to ignore. She's quick to get herself a cup of it, inhaling the scent of it slowly once she does. She'll be walking around slowly taking sips and peering at the other treats.

More than really trying them all herself she takes time to just watch others enjoying themselves which is a treat for her. ]

Wildcard

[ Feel free to go a different direction or PM this journal/PP poetanarchy if you want to discuss other options! ]

Eugene Root ( OTA )

[pureed]

Lantern Release

[ Instead of making his own, Eugene purchased a lantern from a merchant and inside he might have stuck a letter that he wrote before he made his way to one of the nightly lantern releases.

Once the lanterns make it up into the sky, Eugene's eyes are wide and his muffled voice is awed when he whispers: ] It's so beautiful.

Sweet Treats

[ Eating and drinking isn't an easy thing for Eugene, especially in public. Of course, drinking things are a lot easier but when it comes to eating -- well most food doesn't come pureed already. So, it's probably a bit masochistic for Eugene to even come around these parts, the straws are never the right size even when the drinks have straws so he doesn't plan on getting anything.

He does spend a lot of time watching and smelling what treats there are. Perhaps, you catch him asking without thinking: ] Is that as good as it smells?

Giving Circles

[ Eugene likes to help. There's a genuine happiness that comes from it so maybe you're just passing the area or maybe you're a fellow volunteer when you run into Eugene struggling along with a heavy box from what seemed like not so long a point a to point b but is becoming quite the trek with the weight. ]

Wildcard

[ Feel free to go a different direction or PM this journal/PP poetanarchy if you want to discuss other options! ]

Lanterns - Eugene & Claire

[evogirl]

Hey Eugene!

[ She spots him when she's working on her own lantern. Actually she's finished now, and just needs to release it. Lots of other people have already done that.

Claire releases hers and then gives Eugene a smile. ]

It's really good to see you!

[ She hasn't seen him in some time, probably since they first arrived here. ]

Ferdi Müller | OTA

[ferdi]

Sweet Treats

[ Ferdi's a little overdressed. He's wearing slacks and a white button up with a matching jacket. Someone should introduce this guy to jeans one day but in any case, he's found a new favorite food in white mooncakes. ]

Have you tried these? You must. [ He'll tell just about anyone in his thick German accent. ]

Bedouin Tents

[ The tents catch Ferdi's attention early on and as the evening progresses he makes his way into one, full of treats and drinks from throughout the day. He's more than happy to find a comfortable place to sit in the warm tent. His body language is always warm and welcoming intent on making friends -- perhaps, if he comes across the right sort of guy a little more than friends.

However, just now, he's mostly intent on finding good conversation for a bit. Anyone that looks like they might provide just that he'll wave down and try to invite them to sit with him. ]

Open Bar

[ Ferdi gets himself pretty normal drinks throughout his time around the open bar. Feel free to help him spice up his drink life if you notice -- he's really not aware of some of the newer concoctions that are out there since the 1930s.

Otherwise, Ferdi spends his time mingling, trying to make some more friends, contacts and what not. His flirting certainly isn't turned on but his smile is charming and his general aura welcoming for conversation and whatever came upon someone's mind in seeing him.

After sometime, he'll wonder out loud: ] I'm really not sure if I should have another.

Wildcard

[ Feel free to go a different direction or PM this journal/PP poetanarchy if you want to discuss other options! ]

Bar

[neutronium]

Oh come now, one more wouldn't hurt, would it?

[Hux walks up to the bar, and orders two cable cars, each with the extra elixir in it. Once he's done paying, he picks up the drinks, holding one out for Ferdi. Hux ensured that he's looking dapper today, but when does he not? He is, however, much more relaxed than normal--because he's had a few drinks.]

Ferdi, isn't it? We spoke on the network, regarding struggles with technology.

bigby wolf | m/f shipping pref but ota for whatever else may be

[huffnpuffs]

1. one bourbon one scotch one beer

[ being a fable can have all sorts of benefits, and bigby knows them better than most. elongated lifespan (potentially infinite, if you don't get axed first), heightened recovery from injuries, strength beyond that of the average person... the list goes on. but sometimes there's a drawback. well, in his experience there's always a drawback whenever things seem too good to be true, and one of those in his case is...

well, the big bad wolf can't get drunk.

he can get a buzz, sure, but only if he really tries to - the way his body processes alcohol sees its effects wear off alarmingly fast. it sucks sometimes, when he's had a particularly rough night and needs to force his mind off of things. not the healthiest coping mechanism by a long shot, but he doesn't have to worry about the same consequences as a human. he's nursing some whiskey for the time being, but it's a little frustrating that here, where camaraderie is so important, he can't have a drink and loosen up the same way others can.

unless he tries that golden stuff.

he's hesitant to just gulp it down, though, not without knowing for sure what it does - so he'll find someone else at the bar who's tried it already, easing into an adjacent seat before shooting them a curious look. ]

So, does that stuff actually work?

2. the cold never bothered him anyway

[ bigby's lineage gives him a few unique features. being the son of the north wind not only allows him to control powerful gusts of wind (his legendary "huff and puff", as it were) and hold his breath for long stretches of time, but makes him virtually immune to the cold. he's tried some of the food from that leftmost table, and it hasn't done much for him. no chill in the air, nothing nipping at his nose, not even a goosebump.

that table on the right, though. that's another story.

the warmth beneath his skin is pleasant, surprisingly so, and he may go ahead and sample the food from that end a little more than he ought to - or not, depending on one's perspective, because by the time he's done he's practically radiating warmth like some kind of space heater. he'll end up sprawled out a bit on one of the couches, occupied or otherwise, remarking to no one in particular: ]

You know what, maybe I had this place pegged all wrong. Doesn't seem half bad after all.

3. wild card baby woooooo

[ i'm 120% open to other scenarios too! bigby can be found almost anywhere what with him being all sorts of inquisitive about what this place has to offer, so if you have another idea you want to go for then feel free to fire it my way! if you want to plot anything out beforehand you can chat me up on plurk at gottacatchemall or on discord at Tatch151#7720, or just shoot me a pm! don't be afraid of the big bad wolf y'all ]

1

[dedikated]

Seems so.

( Her drinks have actually been quite light on the alcohol content so far, but laced with the feel good shots that have brought Kate out of her shell. All the positives of being far too drunk without the drawbacks of weary limbs of a foggy head, as far as she can see. Kate leans her head in her hand and crosses one leg over the other, eyeing the stranger before adding. )

Scared of it?

( Was that a challenge? Yep. Her brows are raised and her expression nearly playful as she speaks. )

buffy summers | ota; f/m anything naughty

[gr8muppetyodin]

one; i could never wear that sweater

[ Sorting out clothes for charity was almost a dream come true. Buffy loved shopping. She loved clothes. She didn’t care if they were from the mall or the thrift store, she just cared that they fit and they looked good. She hadn’t had many clothes to spare, so most of her time was going into sorting the large piles from everyone else.

And yes, she was colour-coordinating, sorting into categories (casual, formal, work wear, clubbing, mens, womens, etc) and making notes of clothes she might get for herself later if they aren’t all taken.

Which is where she is now, back at the racks and looking through so she can go back to her apartment with way more clothes than she came with. There’s one jacket in particular she’s eyeing to wear tonight. ]

two; if ever your fortress caves you're always safe in mine

[ After picking up a cocktail from the bar (with a little something extra), Buffy eventually made her way over to the tent area. She had never seen anything like it, and those cushions just kept calling her. There was nothing wrong with relaxing for a little bit, right? She’d wandered the other areas ever since finishing the clothing drive, and now with her new jacket on and drink in hand, it was time just to wind down.

Luckily she’d gravitated towards one of the lighter coloured settings, because as soon as the petite blonde sat down, she was almost swallowed by the cushions. It was her black clothing that at least made it easier to spot her in amongst all the white and cream. A hand is reaching out, fingers wiggling to be rescued. Alternatively she might just pull you in with her. ]

three; wildcard

( find her by the bar, snack table, wherever you need her and want her. If she’s at the lanterns hers will be covered in poorly drawn stick figures and names of her sunnydale friends and family. i have to post things as i can at the moment, so if we still have threads going you can drop me a line and we can work out how this fits in. i not, just freeball it and i’ll play along. i’m generally pretty easy and open to all. kindofabigdeal or pm. )

two.

[venaris]

( alright, so maybe he'd dappled in that too hot table a bit too much with a bit too little thought or care toward it, given he's left shrugging out of preferred flannel even with the biting, fall breeze coming in through the larger tent. looks like some form of a hippy get together to him, but it's a safe bet not to count him out of anything that's going to involve a plethora of sweets.

his only complaint: where's the pie? (alright, there's a meat one, but he's looking for the good stuff.)

he's popped one too many of those cinnamon cupcakes, leaving a natural flush upon his cheeks, and he's about to exit the area to indulge a bit more in the crisp air outdoors when he notices the petite blonde being quiet literally suffocated back into one of the endlessly-pillowed cushions. there's no doubt he gets a little amusement out of it, given the husky chuckle that proceeds him, before he's reaching a larger, callous hand out to grab hers. )

This place is it's own kind of death trap, I tell ya.

[angelpants]

a - open bar

[ Anyone who knows her might be surprised to see Waverly on the other side of the bar right now. Unlike Wynonna, she doesn't drink like a fish. Still, it seems to be a good place to meet people at this festival. And a drink or two can't hurt.

She's excited to be here, and dressed in her typical girlie fashion. She's working on her first drink and chatting lightly with some people around the bar.

Suddenly she almost spills her drink when someone bumps into her from behind. Never one to let something like that get her down, she helps to steady the other person and grins. ]

You alright there? Maybe you've already had enough.

[ She's teasing. ]

b - lanterns in the sky, y'all

[ She's never been to something like this before, and she's very curious. She decorates a lantern all pretty with flowers and stuff.

She's also observing how everyone else's lanterns look. A lot of talented people here, she thinks to herself. And people seem to be having fun, which is always a good thing.

She finishes with her lantern, very carefully and turns to the person beside her. ]

So now what? I mean how do we make them float?

[ Maybe they've done this kind of thing before. ]

c - wildcard

(Want something else with Waves? Hit me up at liveforthefight)

a!

[quinientos]

[ People very much like their alcohol here, Vasquez thinks. Not that this is a bad thing, seeing as he likes to drink just as much as anyone else, maybe a bit more sometimes when he feels a little wary about where he is. He still hasn't adjusted completely, wearing the clothes he'd arrived in, because they're familiar. Because it's what he's lived in for the last six months anyhow, why change now?

He's distracted by all the sounds and sights around him that he doesn't look down until he's collided with someone, looking almost a foot down to see the young woman he'd bumped into. ]

I don't usually have to look so far down.

[ Gesturing to her glass, he gives her a wary look. ]

That's not so empty because of me? We could get new ones, if I'm responsible. I would hate to leave you out of a drink.

steve rogers | open

[recruited]

lend a hand

[ It's not unusual to see Steve Rogers helping back. He got right on board when they were trying to rebuild after the earthquake. Needing help at the Energy Festival is something he jumps right on board with. Steve's always been good at giving back. Plus this gives him the much needed break he needs after all the chaos that's been surrounding him. Though not so much chaos as constantly on the go. Constantly moving to keep an eye on his people.

But today he's sorting through canned goods and such. He's not Captain America. Though he hasn't been Captain America since Tony told him to drop the shield. Right now he's just Steve Rogers. Steve Rogers sorting cans and sometimes breaking away to carry some of the heavier boxes. It doesn't take super strength to do this, but it does come in handy when he wants to load up and take on a bit more responsibility. ]

tents, tents, tents galore

[ This is all just part of the relaxing. Finding something for him to put his mind to that isn't wrangling his team or the challenging world of dating. The tents are beautiful. Comfortable. The Bedouin tents draw Steve in, but he stays away from any sectioned off areas by himself. Instead he lets himself just be. He gets a drink from the bar and maybe he gets a little kick. The bartender did explain that it'd make him a little more ambitious in talking which he appreciates.

He might be at the snack table. Working hard does work up an appetite. The menu is different he's thorough in his reading. He doesn't intend to have any surprises. Not at first anyways. He opts to go right. Interested in what's over there first. He's never been afraid of some heat. He's a man of moderation usually, but even Steve has a breaking point. When he cuts loose and maybe the extra snacks do help. Not to mention the gold substance dropped into his drink.

Unfortunately Steve gets a little unlucky as soon as a cupcake hits his lips. His entire body gets warm. A beat of sweat over his brow and he's pulling on the collar of his shirt. The heat overwhelming and pleasant both at the same time. ]

lend a hand

[ischyros]

( Diana, too, is drawn to helping out at the energy festival. While she can see the merit in devoting her energy in a more amorous way, right now she wants to help sort canned goods, lift heavy boxes and do things for those who need an extra hand. She's pleased to see that Steve's joined her in that endeavor and she gives him a little wave hello from across a box that they're sorting. )

So we finally meet in person, Steve Rogers. I was beginning to think we'd only ever text.

joshua faraday | open

[sofar]

icy hot

[ Faraday did pop by the clothing drive earlier to drop off some stuff. He doesn't have too much to give, but he figured he could do something. His good Samaritan routine only extends so far though. It's a little difficult to lug boxes and pick things up with his hand cast in place. He's getting it off soon, but for now he opts to just have a good time. Enjoy himself and whatever this goddamn Togetherness Tent has to offer for him. He's very keen to figure it out.

He's a daring fellow so it's of no surprise he opts for something extra in his drink. He likes surprises. He likes wild. He likes snacks too. First jumping into the regular ones just to wet his whistle. He's hungry and doesn't want to overindulge in the crazy stuff just trying to fill his belly. But between the liquor and his adventurous streak he's visiting both the left and right tables. Why not?

First is the cold stuff. The tingling in his skin is different. But that turns into the phantom touches. The back of his neck. His forearm. His side. It's got Faraday twisting around and looking for the culprit. It's a crazy feeling. Wandering through the tents and almost feeling like your losing your mind.

But last comes the hot stuff. A red flush overtakes him and Faraday just drinks more. Why not? Why not enjoy the party and the good time? ]

[quinientos]

[ All the carrying boxes has made him hungry, though it doesn't take much to get Vasquez hungry. He hasn't been here long enough to shake that belly-deep pang of hunger that's been following him, which means that he stops whenever he can for food. Free food is even better when he doesn't have to tap into limited funds to get it.

Narrowing his eyes when he gets into a tent with the food, he makes a face when he sees Faraday, mainly out of habit. Whatever ill will he felt (and feels) had been somewhat edged away when McCann had shot him and Vasquez realized that maybe, just maybe, he didn't hate the Irishman as much as he said out loud. Him dying, well, that hadn't been so good either, none of the deaths had been on his heart.

Right now, Faraday looks like he's jumping out of his skin after drinking something strange and cold, staring around him like someone has done something, but he just ends up looking mad.]

Guero, what are you doing? Someone spill a mouse down your pants?

kara danvers • closed.

[advena]

☀ it's my birthday and i'll cry if i want to.

( the energy festival rolls around on the twenty second day of september. the day itself is memorable, if only because it happens to also be kara danvers' birthday. or, at least, her earth birthday. kryptonian calendars didn't exactly sync up with the orbital path of the earth around the sun, and kara hadn't done the math to figure out the difference. besides, one birthday was more than enough for her.

she hasn't made a habit of telling many people when her birthday is — it's not something that comes up often in conversation, and kara's not exactly the kind of person to expect anything just because of the day of the year — but there are those who may have it circled in their metaphorical calendar. her friends and loved ones, those that have known her longer than just a few months, may feel inclined to surprise her.

there's no big plans, though. she might have thrown a birthday party for oliver last year, but throwing one for herself never really came up as an idea. instead, she lingers at home that morning, happy to be doted on in small ways and to relax with a cup of tea and a very snuggly puppy, and spends the afternoon volunteering around the festival, loaning her own strength and stamina wherever it might be needed. feel free to drag her away, or just to come say hello. )

☀ you would cry too if it happened to you.

( the more intimate portions of the festival require accompaniment, bravery lent from confidence that kara doesn't quite know how to wear just yet. she's curious, though, having heard so much about these sorts of things from sara's experiences in their last multiverse, and when it's announced, she can't help but bring it up.

go with me, she'd asked, and he'd agreed; now here they were, lingering just inside and taking in the sheer magnitude of options sprawled across the tables. there was so much to choose from — decadent-looking cupcakes, frosty glasses of what looked like champagne, crisp cookies dotted with red or blue swirls, and even the bar just past it with that curious golden liquor on display. kara didn't know where to start. or even how to start, for that matter.

better to let someone else take the reins, then, or they'd be standing here all night. ) What do you think? ( or, perhaps, where. that might be a better question too. )

""wildcard""

[leaguer]

( did oliver let sara in, or did her super spy assassin abilities help her to sleuth out where the pair of them have hidden the spare key to their townhouse?

that doesn't matter right now. what matters is that sara's tiptoeing up the stairs to the second level around midday, sneeeeaaaking around the corner, and spotting her target: the partially ajar door to the bedroom. a-ha, surely she's found a certain birthday girl's hiding place; she can see a cup of tea set on the side table next to the bed through the slim amount of space between the door and its frame.

screw sneakiness; it's go time. sara takes it upon herself to push the door open, a wide grin on her face as she catapults herself onto the bed, mattress bouncing in the process as she gets her bearings and crawls up to lay her head on a pillow that smells like oliver, legs sprawled lazily on top of a duvet that kara's still burrowed underneath. )

Time to get up, birthday girl.

thea queen ➙ open

[withasouvenir]

ｉｔ ｄｏｅｓ ｎｏｔ ｓａｙ ｒｓｖｐ ｏｎ ｔｈｅ ｓｔａｔｕｅ ｏｆ ｌｉｂｅｒｔｙ

[ BLEH is about how thea feels about community service, especially considering she had to do so much of it at cnri under laurel -- she still debates whether she should have chosen the jail time -- but at least this community service isn't just for the satisfaction of a job well done. she'e getting bonus credits for her wish and she's getting an impromptu workout moving boxes to and fro.

girl's got guns, hon.

as she's making one run, the box bottoms out and collapses entirely and thea finds herself at once covered in maraschino cherry juice when the bottle explodes on the ground and splashes all over her bare legs, staining her white vans tie dye pink and red. she doesn't seem to notice the tiny bits of glass embedded in her shins. whoops. ]

Imma need a new box over here! [ she finally hollers once she's danced out of the way of the broken mess of food. ]

ｉ'ｖｅ ａｌｗａｙｓ ｗａｎｔｅｄ ａ ｙｕｒｔ

[ luckily, thea was banking on taking advantage of the last seconds of summer so she'd dressed to bare all of her long legs and the cherries only ruined her shoes while the rest of her outfit remained unscathed. her legs looks like she fell down and scraped her shins in the aftermath of all those little pieces of glass. but now she's in the ~togetherness tent~ making her way through all the little nooks and crannies with all the curiosity of a toddler told not to touch. she has a glass of something purple and sparkly in hand and she pokes her head around corners and through gauzy curtains like: ]

Want some company?

[ when she's not interupting people's solitude, she makes a little home at the bar, making friends with the bartender and doing one sip taste tests of cuddle city's highest end drinks. join her! ]

ｍｕｓｉｃａｌ ｃｈａｉｒｓ ｅｘｃｅｐｔ ｔｈｅｙ'ｒｅ ｔａｂｌｅｓ

[ thea's got a sweet tooth so regardless of the table, thea makes a point to try all the sweet desserts. once she realizes that the red table packs the heat, she makes a point to follow all her experimental bites with nibbles from the blue table because she likes the sensation of the warmth followed by the chill and vice versa.

she wonders if the chill is transferable from person to person... eventually she'll test that theory, but for now she's just going ham on the tables. ]

patty spivot - open to all

[taskforcing]

bar;
[ Patty had heard something about liquid courage and she decided that she would be gung-ho about it, proactive if you will. She'd been pretty bad about, well, the whole reason she'd been brought to this city. And after interrogating the bartender to make sure that this golden drop of whatever wasn't actually just a roofie, she'd agreed to add it to her drink.

Now, Patty is friendly, she doesn't have trouble making friends or endearing herself to others but whatever was put into her drink makes her even more talkative and her smiles come even easier.]

Can I buy you a drink?

snack tables;

[ Patty's always been a fan of chocolate, who isn't? So when she sees a display of cupcakes, she makes a beeline for the chocolate ones to try. It's only after she eats on that she feels a little weird. She turns around immediately, eyes narrowing even if she feels a slight thrill. It's strange considering as a cop, feeling a random, unexpected touch should make her react differently, more defensively. And yet, she's smiling almost when she asks a passerby--]

Was that you?

snack tables

[duelo]

[ Derek doesn't really normally do parties, but he might as well do this one. The last time he went to one, he had a good time, anyway. Besides, this a Festival, not really just a party. There's probably a local holiday or something and if he paid a bit more attention, he might've been more careful while choosing his refreshments.

He's moving toward the table with the blue table to get some of the apple cider, just out of sheer curiosity because it also said blueberry, when a woman asks him a question. It takes Derek a second, actually, to realize he actually knows who she is already. He thinks... He's pretty sure he's talked to her on the OkCuddle app. ]

Was what me...? You're Patty, right?

[speedforcer]

[while this may not be the first time he's been to an event like this, it's not really his idea of fun. not since leaving a certain duo behind when the gates of eudio shut. were he anybody else then perhaps he'd take this as a new chance. would wander the festival out of more than simple curiosity. but he's engaged now, would be planning his wedding if the speed force hadn't seen a need to intervene. and then there was len, and that's a whole other complication that he has no way of coming to terms with.

but despite all that, barry is there, taking full advantage of the sweet treats offered outside the confines of the tent. he takes part in the lantern release, a deep purple lantern his contribution to the mix, fine lines of silvery-blue hand painted along the bottom edge. it's a memory released into the night, but one he isn't going to explain.

later, as night wears on though, barry ends up finding his way towards the togetherness tent, ultimately taking a place at the bar for most of the evening. it's the first time since coming to the city that he's found a drink that'll actually affect him, so he doesn't waste any time in looking for supplier details to accompany the bottle of pale amber liquid he steadily empties through the night. when he does finally end up making his way towards the snack table, it's with enough drink in him to prompt him in to finally trying some of the treats. the left table chosen for reasons that may be obvious to those who knew him before. but with the rest of the bottle still waiting for him, he can't find it in him to really care how it may look.]

natasha romanoff | ota

[glaza]

lanterns;

[ Her lantern had been fairly simple to make. Nothing fancy but the way she handled it said all that needed to be said. She had a lot to be thankful for and what's the harm in showing some gratitude for that? A second chance with the man she loves, a shot at her wish actually coming true. Taking some time to make a lantern to release that night was a small price to pay for all that.

So was finding a job and working while she was here. It was a nice change of pace from her life as an Avenger. Mostly.

That night, the sight along the beach was truly lovely. Having removed her shoes earlier, she remains on the surf, watching as the lanterns float up into the darkening sky. The wind is getting colder, as is the water lapping her ankles. She thinks back to Eudio briefly, remembering last summer how it ended with an extravagant party long three islands, and sends another wish up to her lantern: that things won't end the same way. ]


bar and outdoor seating;

[ Once the lanterns are done being set loose, she makes her way to a few tables for food but it doesn't take long for her to find her way to the bar. She spots the drinks with the little umbrellas and smiles. She takes one with her food. She goes back for some of the wine and finds a few cushions to claim as her own. She'll share if she has to but while she's alone, she stretches out like a cat, popping her toes and remaining barefoot. A simple sleeveless top with a high collar and form-fitting bottoms, Natasha manages to make her lazy sprawling look elegant.

Her hair is still pulled back into a bun but the red strands are starting to come loose thanks to the wind from the beach. She watches people as she sips her wine, saying very casually to anyone near here, ]

They certainly know how to spoil people here.

and at last I see the light.

[myownwoman]

[ gaby finds natasha easily, red hair lit with the light of the lanterns like a beacon. her sandals are dangling from her fingers, bare feet sinking into the sand as she approaches. it's lovely watching the lanterns float away on the breeze and she doesn't seem to notice when she steps into the water, but then the chill hits her and gaby takes those last few steps back.

nope, too cold, she won't be joining natasha out in the water, she will stay on the chilly sand and wait. ]

It's beautiful.