Bringing in Spring with a worthy revel

[onewiththerevel]

[With the changing of seasons, many Nexus visitors are very happy to see the snow melt away and life returning to their beloved home. Spring is here!

It appears overnight: a large pantheon in the center of the Nexus forum, and once can only guess how such a great building was erected without anyone noticing. Atop the Patheon are two golden thrones, adorned with gemstones of great value. No one seems to be sitting there, but they seem to hold a great deal of importance to the cloaked humans who guard the Pantheon entrance.

The land in front of the Pantheon is paved with smooth, old stones in the shape of a large circle. Lush flowers and grass grown along the outskirts of the cropping, full of beautiful and exotic plants. Truly the host of this revel wants even nature to bend before their whim.

On the left and right sides of the sides of the circle are two long marble tables, where different food and drink await those who enter. Freshly cooked meat. Ripe fruits and unsullied wine. Whatever your heart desires, be it simple or sweet, you will be hard pressed to not find it on one of the tables. Near the tables is also a large group of tents, adorned with many plush chairs and sofas for those who like to relax while indulging.

The center of the circle has a large bonfire pit, carved of fine stone, lit with a brilliant (almost unearthly) red fire. Comforting to those seeking warmth or invigorating to the souls of the weary: it carries an important symbol for the revel: let your soul burn as hot as the flames inside. Which, to the satyr, it means that everyone present should be partying and indulging with one another. There seems to be plenty of space for dancing and socializing alike, whatever your preference may be.

The entrance into this festivity is monitored by a group of half-human, half-goat satyr. They don’t seem to be picky about who gets let in, assuming you’re not here to ruin the fun, but it would be wise to check it with them first. This is a masquerade-style party, so all of the guests need masks.

But there can’t be anything possible wrong with such a wonderful party, right? Perhaps things are not all as they seem….]

((Here's your OOC guide guide to this event. Post when you can as you like, no worries. Have fun!))

((The second half of the event is live link here Please read the OOC thread so you know the details!))

Comments

[turningcolors]

A festival garnered toward Spring...

This looks like exactly the sort of event Hazel would help manage back on Earth, doing her part to boost the roles of the seasons well outside of her own even without her powers. There's a tug of guilt in knowing she's not doing that this year. At the very least she ought to show up and pay her respects like she had for Winter.

Hazel approaches the steps of the pantheon wearing a modest warm colored dress she hopes is Spring-like enough. Though the saytrs give her pause when she reaches the top of the stairs.

"Are you the hosts of this Seasonal festival?"

[onewiththerevel]

The celebration is indeed welcoming the warm weather of Spring, but one might question if the party is all about the seasons. As Hazel approaches the pantheon steps, one of the satyr approaches Hazel with a friendly smile on his face.

"Yes! We are but many who are in charge of this revel!" The satyr, if anything, can tell that Hazel is much different than other humans, but he's not sure how or why. Thus, he treats her with more respect than the average person would get. "Tell me, fair lady, are you here to partake in the festivities? A bit of wine, perhaps? Have you been given a mask for the evening celebration?"

[jarheadclan]

Jake's enjoying the hell out of the fact that winter's done and over with, and even though it's still cooler than much of the jungle he lives in now, he's shed his parka and boots for more traditional tribal garb, gussied up with the fronds and beads that come with being clan leader.

The sight of a building tall enough to accommodate his nine-foot frame gets his attention, as does the sheer quantity and variety of greenery on display. And the smell of good food... yeah, he's sold.

The Na'vi approaches one of the satyrs at the entrance, touching his forehead in respectful greeting. "Is this shindig invite-only?" he asks with a grin.

[onewiththerevel]

Jake isn't the only one who's excited at the disappearance of the snow and ice (sorry Reynard), as many human Nexus people are already standing around near the entrance, excited to get inside.

The satyr that is addressed gives Jake a look over, nodding in approval at the Na'vi and his choice of clothing, even if the blue skin is something new. He finishes handing out a group of masks to some nearby people, then properly starts up a conversation with Jake.

"This party is open for all who with to celebrate with us. The only thing we ask is that you take a mask and participate in the evening masquerade." The satyr gives Jake a curious look. "What realm do you hail from? I see the body of a man, but the skin of a merfolk. Are you from Theros?"

[magnetite_plz]

Even with a mask on it's easy for Angel to spot her Na'vi friend. His height and shade rather give him away. Then again, even with her robot mask on Angel is equally recognizable with her wings and hair.

"Jake! It is good to see you again, my friend."

[sweetcandygirl]

Harley walks towards the Pantheon with a smile. She loves a good party.

Tonight, she is wearing a handmade red-and-black outfit (far right in this fan art). The outfit shows off her legs. And is fun and outlandish.

(And remembering how one recent Nexus party had ended, she does have a few weapons on hand and out of sight).

She notices that most the guests are being asked to wear masks. Good thing she still has her old red-and-black domino mask. She holds it out to one of the guards at the door. And flashes him a grin. "Good enough?"

[onewiththerevel]

At the entrance is a satyr, accompanied by a human who's wearing a green cloak and long white dress. Both of them stop their activities and turn to face Harley as she approaches the gate. Without warning, the satyr gives off a short whistle, while the human woman finds herself staring at the vibrant colors Harley is wearing.

"Is this fine?" The satyr looks to his human companion and she nods her head yes. "Your mask is acceptable. The pattern is very unique, however. Did you make it yourself?" The goat-man can't help but flirt with Harley, since she is rather distracting and wearing red is only exposing her beauty to him. "Shall I show you around the party?"

[brother_alone]

Once Harley is finished dancing with her satyr companion, she'll notice a man in a hoodie and a rather plain mask watching her from over by one of the long food and drink laden tables. He seems to be taking this mask thing to the extreme, going so far as to cover his hair as well with his hoodie.

He turns away when he catches Harley looking his way.

[delphicbooksandbaubles]

Aal has draws up short as she catches sight of the spot. Her sneakers squeaking a little as she comes to a stop. Looking up and around in awe and feels both a bit of longing, thrilled and homesick at the sight. Wooow. It looked utterly spectacular. She'd wondered if there would be something nice going on once the cold had started to pass.

She scans the area taking things in and debating what to do and figuring how much time she had. Well, she could always find out some info before going to met Dor. Cause she had no doubt her beloved husband would like to join in such an event. She puts a friendly, somewhat shy and curious smile and look on her face. As she tentatively and respectively pads forward a mite more. Looking for someone who looks like they were in charge or at least approachable.

[onewiththerevel]

There seems to a man dressed in a red robe, along with Greek attire underneath, near the entrance to the festival. The satyr are all busy at the moment, so the human is passing out different colored masks to people entering. He spots Aal near the entrance and motions for her to come close.

"Hello! Are you here for the party?"

[chiron_survivor]

A party is honestly the last place Adia would like to be. She's in no mood to socialize, not with the threat of a stalker looming ever closer. And yet, as she passes through the Plaza on the way to the Grand Library, she can't help but stop in her tracks and marvel at the Pantheon and the satyrs tending to the trappings of the festival surrounding it.

"Caspar, look," she whispers to her companion. "Just like home..." The bonfire and flowers remind her so much of celebrations on Leonis that she wonders for a moment if the former colony has somehow bled into the Nexus.

The Cylon frowns, not as easily impressed. The architecture is reminiscent of the former colonies, but it doesn't make it any less suspicious to him. "Must be some kind of event. Do you want to check it out?"

Adia purses her lips nervously. "I don't know," she admits. "Maybe we can just watch from here for a minute."

[icebearforpresident]

If Adia shouldn't be in the Nexus, then Ice Bear is on that list too. He received a call from Red a few days ago telling him to avoid carnivals on certain days, which Ice Bear intends to do, but he needed to come to the Nexus for other reasons. Surprisingly, Ice Bear is not alone in his travels, as another large brown bear is walking next to him, excited and looking around the Nexus. He's wearing a cheeseburger backpack and is talking excitedly about the store they recently visited.

"Oh man! We have to go back to those game stores in the future! Did you see that sealed copy of Super Mario 3?! The Nexus is so cool!" Grizz is literally jumping from paw to paw, while Ice Bear stops walking suddenly, spotting Caspar and Adia. He doesn't say anything at first, mainly addressing Grizz calmly.

"Should get home soon. Panda is waiting, but Ice Bear thinks Panda should come next time..." Even though the bears are on a task, Ice Bear can't ignore his favorite scientists. He starts walking over to Adia and Caspar, while Grizz follows close by.

"Hello Adia. Caspar." Ice Bear raises one paw in greeting, while Grizz stares at the two of them happily. Upon hearing Adia, the brown bear can't help himself. He's heard about Adia from Josh and Ice Bear. Without warning, he walks over and gives Adia a gentle bear hug, then Caspar gets a light pat on the shoulder.

"Adia?! The best swamp monster ever?! It's so great to finally meet you!"

[turningcolors]

Even with a mask on Hazel's hair tends to give her away rather quickly even at a revelry like this. It's Caspar she recognizes first, though the shorter woman next to him can only be Miss Adia in tow. She thinks back to Reynard's reaction toward her, something that doesn't seem to fit at all with the care she had showed for the Winter spirit's well being.

She should at least say hello and let her know she delivered the message. But probably not linger given Caspar's opinion of her.

"Caspar, isn't it?" She says it in the same tone she called him 'Sir Scorpion' in before, as it's the name Hazel has given him in her head. But she rather doubts Adia knows much about that side of him and it would be rude to say as much with Adia right here. "And Adia? Am I right? Good day to you both."

[rogueinladysclothing]

Spring and Amelia are two things that haven't mixed well since the rogue came to the Nexus, but as her eyes take in the sight of the pantheon, she can't help but be intrigued. The fire is inviting, the structure itself a unique sight (even in the Nexus!), and the breeze carrying the scent of all of those foods is divine. If ever there were a time to put off her errands and simply be out for a while, it would be now. Besides, she's been cooped up in her apartment for weeks without any real distractions and has managed to keep her magic in check without significant thought for over a week! That's a reason to celebrate in and of itself, as far as Amelia's concerned.

A smile splits her lips as she approaches the satyr, dressed in a full-length forest green silk shirt with gold embroidery of delicate floral patterns along the collar and cuffs and deep brown pants. Her hairpin tinkles musically in the breeze as she tilts her head the slightest bit, a curious and excited look on her face. "Is everyone welcome to your party?" she asks. "Or is this an invitation only sort of event?"

[onewiththerevel]

It seems like many Nexus citizens are abandoning their daily errands to do something less stressful, so Amelia should feel no regret in changing her plans. The satyr are in the process of refilling the table of masks, while one of them supervises by drinking some wine. Yes. These satyr drink while on the job.

"Oh, yes! Welcome to our revel, my dear!" The drinking satyr manages a small bow, somehow not spilling any of his drink. "Everyone seems to think the event has an entry fee, but it doesn't. That's the best kind of party!" He smiles at her politely.

"You are very well dressed, if I might say so. We'll be sure to find you the perfect mask to go with your attire."

[jarheadclan]

The food and drinks have caught the attention of quite a few people, and when Amelia gets to the closest table, there's a nine-foot tall Na'vi already helping himself to some of the roasted meats on offer.

He grins down at her, face partly hidden behind his wolf mask. "These chicken kebabs are great. You should try 'em."

[thewiselion]

Aslan is very interested in the large pantheon. He can almost feel the revelry of spring being celebrated. Aslan takes his time enjoying the lush flowers and grass grown along the outskirts.

He can smell fresh cooked meat inside the pantheon.

As he gets closer he notices the Satyrs at the entrance. This is quite interesting. They do not smell like Narnia, but the half-human/half-goat creatures will receive his respect.

Aslan does notice that guests are being asked to wear a mask. This might be a complication. But perhaps they will have one that a Lion could wear.

"May the blessings of spring embrace you tonight." He speaks softly.

[onewiththerevel]

The satyr are definitely different from the Faun of Narnia, mainly in personality rather than appearance. It is no surprise that when Aslan approaches the entrance, both human and satyr alike stop to acknowledge him. Finally, a human girl, no older than 20, approaches the lion.

"Hello. May the seasons be good to you as well." She lowers her head to him politely. "Do you wish to come into the festival? You won't need a mask, unless you want one, of course." The satyr are talking among themselves, mainly trying to figure out if they even have a mask for a lion.

[gorogorogoro_chan]

A man in immaculate formal wear approaches the festivities. In observance of the dress code, he's donned a carved hannya mask with an eyepatch stretched overtop. It shouldn't be too terribly hard for those who know him to identify Majima Goro.

"What's up with the shindig?" he asks through the mask's snarling, yellow teeth. "There some kinda cover charge?"

[onewiththerevel]

Most of the satyr at the entrance clap and applaud Majima for his mask, impressed by the craftmanship and design. Looks like these half-goat men enjoy the spooky and terrifying things a lot. A man wearing his own mask approaches Majima calmly, speaking in Japanese no less.

"It is a festival to celebrate the coming of Spring, the era of rebirth. There is no charge to enter. The host of the party is covering the cost of everything," He points to Majima's mask. "You are wearing a hannya mask, correct? It has been a long time since I've seen one of those."

[thissideonly]

There's a Persona at the pantheon! The Persona Apollo! Where's Tatsuya- ...Oh, wait, it IS Tatsuya, only removing the mask part of his outfit to wear a different one, a Venetian mask worthy of the Sun Arcana.

He looks around the environment. "Well, seems like I returned just at the right time! Is this a Western party?" A light chuckle came out of him. "Ah, he is missing out!"

[onewiththerevel]

The outfit and mask definitely match the ongoing festival, almost too much, as it gets the attention of the satyr and people running the festival immediately. They seems to talk among themselves about the outfit, admiring all the details, but some of the people slowly back away from Tatsuya.

Finally, after a few minutes, a woman wearing a while dress and suit approaches Tatsuya curiously. "Your question has not been forgotten. The party is based on old celebrations of Greek traditions. You seem to have captured the spirit of it with your outfit quite nicely."

[conjuredskies]

There's a pervasive sense of familiarity the closer Felix's steps draw him to the merriment. He was supposed to be meeting back up with Jim, yet he's forgotten that momentarily. There's something in the smell of smoke and wine, the sounds of music and indulgent laughter, the open invitation to abandon...

He's never been one to refuse such an invitation, but this time the conjurer hesitates just a moment at the back of the crowd seeking entrance. Parties in the Nexus can be dangerous affairs... but that's not really what's on his mind.

Best to walk into this gladly rather than try to evade it. Still, the satyrs give him pause. He's never come across a daedra like them. Felix maneuvers his way to the front and gives one a charming smile. "What a thrilling sight. Whose revel is this?"

[smartass_captain]

"You were going to ditch me for a party? Wow. I am wounded, Felix."

A familiar voice rings out from just behind Felix's shoulder right about the same time a soft something or other digs his tiny claws into Felix's boot for playtimes. Like Felix's familiar, Tiber is getting pretty good at 'track significant other' as a skill.

"I didn't think my studies were going so badly you needed an excuse to duck out."

[st_andswithjohnconnor]

Kyle had no idea where he was or how he got there except that he was on a recon mission for the Resistance. His crawling out of the underground tunnel should have brought him into an abandon reservoir, but he was brought somewhere... completely different.

He was ushered through some doors and given a mask to put on his face, though he held it in his hands and stood there near the entrance turning around, taking in everything. What the hell happened and where was he?

[themotherofthefuture]

A taller woman carrying guns on her back, wearing a blue tanktop and her hair tied into a ponytail, lifted a cigarette out of her mouth. She was uptight sure, but today was worse. She had no idea what time or place she was at.

Worse case scenario, no John Connor either. Where did her son go?

But she wasn't alone as she too, was handed a mask to look at as she eyed the crowds, searching for anyone in particular she knew.

[magnetite_plz]

A masked festival? How strange!

Then again, it gives Angel a chance to pretend she's fitting in with her new crew of Guardians. The demon shows up in a rather metallic grey mask, literally dropping in unannounced on fluttering wing to take a look around.

She'll have to inform her mistress if the festivities are worthwhile.

"Does anyone know what is expected of us, here?"

[onewiththerevel]

Demons and satyr are an interesting combination: one which could be chaotic or very peaceful. Who knows until today, when the cloaked humans start to slowly assist other party-goers, leaving the half goat men to entertain Angel.

"It is a festival, blessed lady. We are here to celebrate the God of Revels!" A tilt of his head to exam her mask, before he smiles. "Do you know of him? The great Dionysus?"

[brother_alone]

Joshua's no stranger to masks, though he's usually not picking ones that are quite so whimsical. But a party's a pretty good place to get information, and it's something the young man sorely needs right about now. So he scoops up one of the least ornate masks he can find and tugs it on before pulling up his hood to obscure his hair as well.

If nothing else, this sort of party is a good way for him to look around unobserved. His biggest worry is who else might have the same idea right now.

[onewiththerevel]

Joshua's appearance goes mainly uncontested, as the satyr pay him little mind while he's got a mask on; the humans are spread thin with a sudden influx of patrons migrating to the food and drink tables. If he's going to slip around unnoticed, then the plan seems to be working thus far.

A few things might stand out to the Canadian teenager. For starters, at the top of the Pantheon, a group of satyr are bring out a large red curtain to cover up the front of the thrones. This makes it very difficult to see anyone sitting in those golden chairs, especially once two people come up from the lower level of the Pantheon, shielded by the curtain veil. But one can make out the silhouette of a man and a small child, each taking a seat in one of the two thrones.

Near the entrance to the Pantheon is a woman dressed in a long white dress, adorned with gold accents, talking with one of the older-looking satyr. Her attire stands out among the cloaked humans and near-naked goat men, clearly as someone of great important. Perhaps she can be approached and talked with? Or is it more compelling to spy on the conversation first?

[Second half of event post: start!]

[onewiththerevel]

[The evening sun is setting in the Nexus, signaling the final act of the revel. Most of the food and drinks have been consumed and the satyr have cleaned up the festival grounds so everyone can stand around the bonfire. Many Nexus visitors are wearing their masks as part of the celebration, since this is a masquerade-style affair, after all. Anyone involved in the organization of this festival is either standing in front of the bonfire or off to the side, as if waiting for something to happen.

From the top of the Pantheon, emerges a man, dressed in a red and green suit, wearing a white scarf around his neck. He must be the host of this revel, as the satyr and humans alike start hollering with excitement at his appearance. The mask he wears resembles the face of a satyr, but has large horns. It’s safe to say he is dressed like a devil, with the red paint on his mask, and the glowing spear he carries in one hand. He steps up to the microphone and speakers that have been installed at the top of the Pantheon, speaking to everyone in the crowd. There's something dark and intimidating about his voice and wearing a mask is only adding to the suspense.]

"I welcome you all here, for the pinnacle of this grand revel. This celebration is not for the seasons, but to commemorate the nature of all living beings. The god you have all forgotten..."

The crowd seems to murmur at his words, uncertain as to what he's talking about, but unable to look away.

"Deep within yourselves is a greater potential that you've ever known. But the world rejects that way of thinking, thus you're forced to wear a mask and be someone you're not. That changes today." He points the spear out at the crowd. "Call out his name! Nyarlathotep! Free yourselves from the chains of normal behaviors and embrace chaos! All of the sadness, grief and anger you've ever felt...Become that which you reject! Accept the Elder God as your own and give in to your unworldly desires!"

The man steps away from the microphone, leaving the confused crowd below to ponder his words. Without warning, the satyr begin cheering from below the Pantheon steps, sloshing their mead and wine glasses feverishly. As if on cue, the bonfire erupts in a beautiful display of fire, as the visage of some unworldly being can be seen in the flames. As for the party-hosting humans, they seem to be watching the crowd of people carefully...Then the revel turns into something worthy of its namesake.

A woman in her 30’s turns to look at her best friend, the mask on her face hiding any emotions she might have. However, she takes her wine glass and splashes it in the face of the other woman, then starts pummeling her with her fists. Another group of men begin fighting with one another, physically and clearly not in the drunken sense. People are screaming interesting things: whether it be angry accusations or jealous statements, emotions are at a high. The darker side of humanity is starting to show, and those with a weak will are easily swaying into wanting their freedom. Everyone who seems to be starting the fighting is also wearing a mask. Imagine that.

Whether you wanted to be here or not, violence and destruction are on the horizon, and if left unchecked, the entire Nexus threatens to be burned to the ground.]

I KNEW IT.

[thissideonly]

...Oh, for fuck's sake. Really? Really?! Here he was, partying to get away from all the crazy shit Nyarlathotep was spreading back home. And now there was this?!

Oh, he'll become what he 'rejects', alright. He jumps unto a table, rips the mask off his face, points towards the fire, and starts to yell.

"HEY, NYARLY, YOU COWARDLY PUNK-ASS BITCH! YOU TOO SCARED TO FACE ME? HUH?! I BET YOU'RE SHAKING IN YOUR BOOTS, NOW THAT YOU KNOW THAT I'M HERE!" He flourishes a fighting pose, letting Apollo's fire dance around his fingers. "COME AT ME! IF THE OTHER ME WAS ABLE TO KICK YOUR ASS, SO CAN I! I'M NOT AFRAID OF YOU!"

[drehnifusbahi]

A. First Half
This is Vanyel's first visit to the Nexus in some time - between dealing with Miraak once and for all, the last gasps of the civil war, and his duties to both the College and the Dawnguard... well, frankly, he is more than ready for a break. And the Nexus is about the only place he can go for one and not be disturbed.

He's on a long, rambling stroll when he first spots the pavilion, and after taking a few moments to watch the comings and goings and work out exactly what sort of celebration they're gearing up for -the closest equivalent Tamriel has is Flower Day, and that's really only celebrated in High Rock- he hurries back to the inn he's been staying at.

When he returns, a little later in the evening, he's decked out in the most colorful clothes he owns (also the heaviest with protective enchantments, but that's neither here nor there). He pauses at the table full of masks, weighing his options, and finally selects a carefully tooled and painted dragon one, slipping it on as he wades into the crowd.

B. Second Half
When the festivities take a darker turn, he can't quite help the heavy sigh he lets out before shoving the mask aside - seems he won't be getting that extended break he was hoping for just yet after all. But that minor annoyance doesn't stop him from doing what he can to quell the chaos.

The saffron robes mean he's highly visible as he moves between arguing groups and people, mixing Shouts (mainly Disarm, to distract people and part them from their makeshift weapons, but some of the attendees are close enough to beastfolk that Kyne's Peace has enough of an effect to cool their tempers) and spells like Calm - the Illusion schoool still isn't his strongest, but against people who, by and large, aren't mages themselves... they'll do.

He also has a few similar spells that he's picked up in the Nexus, things that increase his own glibness and make the people within its range more inclined to listen to him. In short, he's fulfilling basically every stereotype of the silver-tongued Imperial at the moment.

going to play on the B side here

[onewiththerevel]

Many of the people Vanyel interacts with are easily swayed by his spells, in a good way. With so many people at the festival, it's only a matter of time before the humans hosting the party notice that the guests aren't getting as wild as they should be. This has to stop.

A group of men and women, wearing black cloaks and carrying staffs try to surround Vanyel. All of the are wearing white masks with different gemstones embedded in the forehead. One of them points his spear at Vanyel in a threatening manner.

"You are going against the wishes of our master. Cease your actions or we will use force."