Promise Fair - A Grand Entrance - RPLOG
Contents
Participants
Notable NPCs
Date
1/5/480
Log
It is late in the evening, and the sun is already slowly setting on Firmament and Sweetwater as a whole. LongTech has built a stand in front of the northern entrance to the fair-building. Lady Longtail is already standing at the ready, wearing her red-and-white dress. The diplomats from abroad, however, are nowhere to be found just yet, probably waiting backstage or to the side.
The smell of food wafts out from inside the hall, and there appear to be beings working for House Longtail and House blackback, serving drinks to the attendees.
Angus is off to the side of the stage, dressed in full dress-uniform and keeping an eye on things for security-matters.
Fenris lounges off to the side of the stage opposite Angus. Technically, he is not on the security detail, but the tiger has instructions from no less than three noble families to keep his eye out for trouble. He is wearing his unusual, Creator inspired uniform and watching the goings on with interest.
Wearing her best dress, Jynx mingles with the other attendees. The pale-furred skunk looks around to take in the sights, ears flitting to pick up on conversation here and there as she explores the collection of beings.
Russell isn't really well-connected enough to get up into the good seats for the show, and even if he was a proper Noble, he wouldn't like all of the attention. But the man does love a good show now and again. So he's found himself as decent a place as he can in the crowd to see the upcoming performance. His tail wags a bit as his eyes scan the group, as he doesn't actually know what sort of thing is going on.
Flora smiles as she watches the crowd gather. At least a hundred, maybe two hundred beings gathered, waiting for what is probably going to be some sort of speech. Her ears flick for just a moment, before she moves to the front of the stage. "It has taken a while for the district to finish construction, and maybe even longer for everyone to arrive, yes. But Flora would like to officially open the Promise fair to the public, as well as welcome Sweetwater's friends from the east. From the jewel of the desert," the cat offers, as her voice rings out over the crowd, loud and clear.
As she finishes her sentence, five beings rise onto the stage, dressed in shralestan garb. Five priests, each and every one of them, the same five that visited Longtail Manor a few days ago.
Fenris has never much cared for speeches, and he wanders slowly through the crowd, honestly hoping that the food vendors will be coming through soon. He joins in the polite applause for the priestly visitors.
As the Lady begins speaking, Jynx's attention is drawn there, raptly attentive. When the desert priests are introduced, she gives a polite clap of approval, smiling. This collection of beings from other portions of Promise was going to be monumental.
"Ohhh. Didn't expect dignitaries to be here." Russell's voice says to nobody in particular. His ears poke above some of the taller being's shoulders as he begins to pay closer attention to the group of nobles being presented to the crowd. His ears and eyes turn back to the head of house Lontail then, with an idle flick of the tail.
"And of course, our allies to the North, Thera'Dor," Flora offers, as the Shralestan beings step to the side of the stage, and five more beings stand on the stage. Three moles, definitely part of the Underhill clan, and two Reindeer. Anton and an as-of-yet unnamed Lady.
They take a bow, much to the apparent delight of the crowd, whom seem to be cheering most of the beings present so far. Flora offers a small bow to the delegates as well, before turning to the crowd once more, while an older Schlaufuchs appears besides Angus, striking up a conversation.
"And what of your rivals from the west?" calls out the voice of a snowy owl, heading another few beings. One female Wirefur, pale, curiously beautiful, and dressed in military garb, much like Angus and the Schlaufuchs besides him, probably their security-detail. One finch, male, dressed in a long robe befitting a high status in academics, and one mouse, also male, dressed in an extravagant outfit meant to resemble a craftbeing's clothes... And then, there is the owl herself...
Flora gestures for the crowd to part, and let the Cliffside-delegation move across to the stage. "Flora was almost afraid the Cliffside delegation was getting cold feet, yes," she offers with a smile on her lips, much to the chagrin of the academic, although the crowd seems to enjoy the little quip. "Our rivals from the west, we would like to welcome as well, peacefully, further extending our offer to learn from Promise's best and brightest," she offers, as the Wirefur joins Angus and the older Schlaufuchs.
Fenris joins in the applause for the Thera'Doran party and shares a familiar nod with Anton, the reindeer. His idle saunter through the crowd comes up short at the sound of the owl's voice.
The tiger's head whips around to where the Cliffside Delegation has entered with an undisguised look of disbelief. He shakes it off quickly and starts to move with purpose toward the stage.
The skunk craftsbeing squeaks and almost misses a beat as the crowd begins to part for the Cliffside delegation. Her sweeping plume of thick skunk tail lingers in the spot she was in momentarily before she cradles it close and out of the aisle created. She watches, enamored of the proceedings.
The Arctic Fox watches the Delegates from Cliffside of all places show up, and he thinks a little to himself before muttering, "Well, that was unexpected." And then turning his attention to the proceedings then. He spots a vaugely familiar set of faces in Angus and Fenris up front, but it's not like he's going to wave from the crowd or anything. Russell is several rows behind Jynx, and does much the same with his eaqually fuzzy tail, leaning his head out ever so slightly to try and see what was going on.
A short glance from Flora in Fenris's direction, a silent stare, before they turn back to the crowd, and the beings on the stage, smiling brightly.
"Now then. Before we open the doors and allow everyone at the feast within. There are thre more things to handle, yes," she offers, as a group of beings carries in three cases, offering them to the primary member of each delegation. Lord Underhill, Miss Snowfeather, and, much to the Lion's chagrin, Stephen Sandfur, the apostate priest. "These are standards, based on those used by the creators themselves, and Sweetwater offers them to the whole of Promise. A Promise of increased international cooperation," the she-cat offers with a smile, as a being with a camera snaps a picture of the stage with a flash of light. "Several other copies will be provided to each delegation, to be distributed to the local Houses, academies and churches."
"And finally! LIGHTS," Flora calls out after giving the delegations a moment to examine the gifts, as the convention-hall behind her lights up, the dome above giving off a glow of mixed colors. An impressive display, to say the least.
And then, the first fireworks launch into the air, and the doors to the great building open proper, allowing the gathered beings to venture inside, and partake of the banquet, while the fireworks light up the sky above Firmament.
Though no actual words are said, it seems that some kind of communication has passed between Flora and Fenris. The big tiger simply shrugs and tries to enjoy the light show and fireworks, though he can not seem to shake a faint frown of displeasure.
As the doors open, he hurries to put himself in position to intercept the Owl, Snowfeather. "Anne-Marie," he says affably at the first opportunity, "I did not expect to see you here. And as the lead of a Cliffside delegation, no less!"
The flashes and pops and concussive throbs of camera and fireworks draw Jynx's eyes with wonder. She'd been experimenting a bit with black powder and admixtures therein, but this display of flash and light was quite astounding. Moving with the flow of the crowd, she's careful not to bump too hard into anyone, bobbing her head in apology when it does happen.
Russell's eyes snap back and the first sounds of the fireworks. He wasn't quite expecting a pyrotechnic display to say the least. "Ohhh!" He says, actually startled for quite a moments before his head looks up to the display, only occassionally glancing down to see the crowd's reactions.
"A pleasure, Mister Fenris," the snowy owl offers with a smile that is a little too genuine, a little too broad. Still, she allows the tiger near, clicking her beak momentarily. "You seem... Upset," she offers, as she hands the gift she'd just been given off to the cliffside academic, before moving along with Fenris, even if she's making sure to stay close to the other delegates, whom seem to be walking and talking with Flora about the gift she's provided.
The food inside smells absolutely lovely, with various fried snacks available, as well as different meats, bread, and, of course, beverages... It's not a proper noble or royal banquet, but it's certainly a step above an average dinner.
"Please, enjoy the food. The shows of technology and magic will start tomorrow,"Flora's voice calls out, as various beings dig into the food.
Fenris holds out his arm to the Owl in what must appear to everyone around a friendly, courtly gesture, accompanied by a friendly smile. "Upset?" he asks, "Maybe. Just a little. I am not really used to being surprised. When you have been around as long as I have, you tend to learn to see things coming. The upper eschelons of Cliffside seem like quite the jump from the last time we met." He gestures toward the tables of food. "Our feast here is a bit different than the one you invited me too before, but perhaps I could interest you in a treat?"
As the people begin to mingle, Jynx makes her way towards the craftbeing-dressed mouse, and she bobs her head in genteel greeting, "Welcome to Sweetwater. It's nice to meet fellow crafters from other nations, unless I'm presuming too much?" She offers up a shy smile, Jynx's ear twtiching enrvously.
The Arctic Fox stays amongst the others of his class, staying clear of the nobles as he carefully weaves this way and that in the crowd, greeting a being here and there and staying on the pariphery of the preceedings As long as the fireworks are going on, he's more intrested in the explosions and sounds then most anything else going on. He does finally give a wave to Fenris from a distance though, now that the more 'official' part of things seems over to him.
"Oh, I wouldn't say I'm quite there... Yet," Snowfeather offers with that same, slightly mysterious smile. "You will find that I am full of surprises, mister Fenris. Who knows where I'll pop up next. Perhaps I should seek an Audience with the King, now that I'm here? Any thoughts on things I -must- see before I depart for Cliffside again?" the owl offers with a smile. "My Parish's taste is... Particular. But that doesn't mean I partake," Snowfeather offers, as she picks up an apple from the table.
Russell is most definitely rewarded with flashy lights and loud bangs, as various fireworks light up the sky, flashing in reds and greens and yellows, along with the occasional blue and even purple. And then, there's the smell of the food, of course.
Jynx is rewarded with an harrumph, as the crafter seems to size her up for a little while, before shaking his head. "Can't say I've heard of you, lass. Alphonse roundear. Gemsmith, at your service. And before you ask, I'm not looking for apprentices."
Russell's ears go nearly deaf as he watches the show. As this happens (and he begins to get annoyed with the ringing!) the Arctic Fox slinks into where the food was, keeping at least a few commoners between him and any of the nobles. He's on the hunt for finger food, or at least something he can eat while holding the plate with the off hand. His tail flicks about as it attempts to dodge the shins of other beings going through the food lines.
Fenris returns Snowfeather's smile as he claims a little plate for himself and stocks it with bits of meat and cheese. "I think you will understand when I say that a meeting between you and King Good is the last thing I want to see," he says, "as far as the sights? Well, I can think of a dungeon or two that I would be happy to show you."
The tiger catches sight of Russel and raises a hand in greeting. He turns a smile back to Snowfeather. "I am required to say that you are welcome in Sweetwater and that I hope you enjoy your stay," he says, the picture of a genial local guide, "But I have to confess that I really, really hope you give me a reason to put you on the first ship to Ishara. Have a lovely evening, Miss Snowfeather." The tiger looks around the room, hoping to catch sight of. . . well, of someone else to seek out. No reason to waste a good exit line like that.
The skunk lets out a mirthful laugh despite the harumph delivered t her, "Oh, no, no, I wouldn't ask such a thing. I've already well mastered the craft of lapidary arts and gem-cutting. I find more pleasure in the act of sculpting than flecking off on existing facets. More art than simple chippery." Her lips poise into the smile, and she gives a genteel incline of her head to the mouse, "A pleasure making your acquaintance, Alhponse Roundear. Should you ever wish to expand your own skills, I'm certain we could find a common ground. The name is Jynx, and I represent White Stripe Finery."
"Such animosity, mister Fenris. It's almost like you didn't enjoy our past meeting. Though I should warn you. Should anything happen to me or the other members of the delegation, Cliffside is liable to declare war over percieved slights... And that would turn your... Friend's little festival into a national black day, wouldn't it?" she offers with that everpresent, unsettling smile. "You needn't worry about your King, though. My goals are greater than mere kings," the bird offers. "Run along now. It was a pleasure, as always," she offers.
As far as other available beings goes, there's Flora and the other diplomats, although that would still land Fenris close to Snowfeather. And of course, there are plenty of other beings, from Sweetwater and abroad.
Russell will find that -most- of the food can be easily handled with one hand, from small slices of toasted bread with cheese and vegetables, to the fried ragout-balls made by Ernest, along with various other easily handled foodstuffs, fried and non-fried.
And then, there's Roundear, whom seems to be a tad dismissive of Jynx's claims, shaking his head lightly. "Function creates form, lass. Not the other way 'round."
Fenris bows to Snowfeather in perfect, courtly form. "Please give me an exuse," he says with a smile, then saunters away to meet all the interesting people who have come to Firmament! Specifically, he works his way toward the Thera'Dor delegation, greeting Anton familiarly. "Hello, old man," he says with a grin, "You have not left Lord Snowmark unsupervised, have you?"
"But what is a gem worth save what the eye beholds and the heart yearns? The aesthetic must be pleasing, whether it be a polished shell or a finely faceted diamond, for the worth is in the eye of the beholder when it comes to pieces of art and finery. Not simply a matter of function creating the form," says Jynx wryly, but she inclines her head demurely, "but, to each their own philosophy and desires in their work." She curtseys in kind, "I shall darken your shadow no longer... the fesitivites are calling." as she begins to turn to leave Mister Roundear.
Russell's ears swivel to take in the sounds and sights of the festivities. He nibbles upon a ragout ball, listenting to Jinx and Roundeer debate form and function and which is better. His ears remained piqued on this for quite some time before he took a single step forward to let other people pass him in the food line. His eyes glance up at the spectacle again, and then back down at the crowd.
"We decided it might be better if he enjoyed the festivities from a distance. We all know how the ambassador gets at parties. Figured that the Lady wouldn't appreciate her new building being subject to a Snowmark party the instant the doors are opened," Anton offers, even getting a little nod from the two lesser Underhill, prompting the third to shoot them a short glare.
Roundear shakes his head, before himself retreating into the crowd to retrieve food.
And of course, as Russell looks up, he'd be able to see more and more firework through that grand, domed and patterned window... That must've cost a pretty penny.
Fenris laughs, knowing perfectly well what Sven would be doing at a party like this one. "Lord Snowmark could have attended," he says, "He is always perfectly behaved during his rare appearances in the Good King's court! I am sure some of that could be extended here." There is some truth to that. Surprisingly, the usually over-the-top puma is both eloquent and magnanimous in his dealings in court, even if he can be a bit excessive in his personal life. One might almost suspect him of being two different people. The tiger shares a knowing look with the greying reindeer before turning and bowing to first, the moles, and second to the female Reindeer. "Lord Underhill, Lady Aldermann," he says, "It is a pleasure and an honor. I count Sven and Anton as friends."
As she heads over towards the laid out sundry fare of the fair, Jynx's eyes widen a bit, both at the bounty of food, even if not quite of noble banquet, to the luxury of the building itself with its opulent ceiling and more. She lets out a low, admiring murmur, "Quite the place..." before meandering along the food table to acquire some of the crunchier bits to nibble on.
The fox's head turns in Fenris' direction when he greets several people he doesn't quite recognize save knowing they're important. His eyes glance about to see if he happens to spot Flora far enough away from the other nobles that he can compliement the fireworks display without getting in the way or having to bumblingly introduce himself. Jinx walks by him on her way to the food, and the vulpine gives the skunk a polite nod, "Ma'am" he offers in a polite but short greeting.
Flora offers a smile and a nod to both Russell and Jynx, her tails flicking behind her. "Neither was very cheap, no. But Flora does like the result, yes," the she-cat offers with a smile, another tailflick.
There is some murmuring among the underhill, before they nod a little. "A pleasure, then. A friend of Anton and his family is a friend of us."
Fenris smiles at the little mole contingent and samples the antipasto on his plate. "I'm sure you hear this often," the tiger says to the lead mole, "But you bear a striking resemblance to Doran Underhill. Any relation? I spent a few years in Hearthforge, performed at a couple of Underhill soirees." He adds that last as explanation.
Russell says, in a rather low tone for the setting so as to be somehwhat inconspicouous, "Oh, it was a lovely display, Lady Flora... I've no doubt it was quite an investment. I do like gunpowder displays, but in my station of life, one doesn't fire off powder and ball unless game is in the sights. Such noice and color is an extravagence to me." He takes a bite them, and adds, "The fact I get dinner out of it's just a bonus."
"It is an investment, yes. A show to put Sweetwater on the map, academically and technologically," Flora notes with a smile, as she gestures at the hall as a whole, tails swaying behind her. "An expensive investment, although Flora is quite happy with the result, yes. And it can be re-used, later," the tigress rumbles.
Fenris is offered a broad smile, a clap from the mole, as he, too, smiles broadly. "Third cousins, once removed. And proud of it, mister Fenris," the mole offers with a smile on his lips, as he munches down on another ragout-ball.
Russell thanks Flora for the food and fireworks again, before excusing himself and stepping back to make the long meandering exit from the crowd. The Arctic Fox wanted a head start on that crowd of folks before all of the inn rooms are filled and he'd have to walk outside the gate to crash. His head turns back to tbe building one last time. "Flora is one strange noble." He mutters to himself, turning and half-jogging for the inn.
With all the mingling and the fair beginning to the fair, Jynx is feeling optimistic. The skunk is looking forwards to its continuation, for certain as she heads out to prepare for the next day.
Fenris raises his plate in salute to the moles and goes on to enjoy the evening. He does make a point to keep an eye on Snowfeather as she circulates.
