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ph_logs2026-02-15 12:54 am
pumpkinhollow) wrote in ph_logs2026-02-15 12:54 am
Entry tags:
FEBRUARY EVENT - Dance Into Spring
DANCE INTO SPRING
A Wealth of Happiness and Romance…
The sun rises on February 15th, and the whole town is buzzing with excitement. There's a similar excitement in the air on the days of other festivals, surely, as well as Dahlia's annual birthday gala, but something in the air is different today. Like a breath held, a flower waiting to bloom.
It's spent the last few days raining, patches of snow growing smaller and smaller until they are a memory. But yesterday, the sun was out, giving all that water a chance to saturate the earth while freshly-uncovered plants wake to sunlight and stretch toward its rays. Serendipitous. A blessed omen from Serranai herself. A sign that she, as well, is waking from her slumber. The world is alive again. Reborn, in that annual sacred miracle that is the onset of spring.
The Festival Green is decorated to the nines with all manner of fresh flowers---- early blooms and green-house raised. A naked maypole stands at the ready, loose fabric dangling errantly in the breeze. The gates open early, when the sun in her early morning vantage still stares just a bit harshly, still warming up to the idea of being aloft. Partygoers trickle in a few at a time, some eager to be early and others taking their sweet time in getting ready. It isn't until the light of later-morning softens and the world takes on the divine radiance of a sun-struck early spring day that Dahlia Leeds ascends the stairs of the large gazebo in a lush flower crown. A hush falls over the crowd of its own volition, and music begins to play, soft and rising. The procession is about to begin.
First comes the honor court--- those nominated who did not manage to clear the first round of voting. They are attended by their "courtiers", the name used for their chosen plus-ones. They come in as a group, tossing ever more flower petals in a hail like confetti and waving to the crowd. Patty Paisley and Kelaiah Voxx ride on the shoulders of Mettaton, who escorts Grace Holloway. Margaret Houlihan and Anya Kovacs carry bouquets of flowers associated with healing, gifted to them by the local medical staff. Ashley Graham, Haley Beckman, Cassandra de Rolo are tasked with carrying banners--- long pennants with floral patterns on them, made of light fabric so that they dance in the breeze as they're carried in. And the youngest contestants, Noelle Holiday and Harrowhark Nonagesimus, bring up the rear, each looking their own flavor of nervous. They and their guests find their seats at the honor-tables circling the base of the gazebo, where a crown of flowers awaits each member at their seat. Then comes the Floral Court, the honored nominees that made it to the second round of the vote. They come in two by two with their courtiers--- Daisy Tonner with Basira Hussein, Valdis with Agni Azimar, Lyubov Morghenschtern with Shen Qingqiu, Zivia Birnbaum with Degas Clayton, Susie Dyneaux with Ralsei, and Carolina Church with Gerry Keay. They make their way down the aisle of the festival green and up to the gazebo. Standing at the top of the short flight of steps is Dahlia Leeds, the previous year's Flower Queen, standing proudly in her blue and white gown beside her own courtier. Gracing each pair with a greeting of “hail and merry meet”, she places a ring of flowers on the head of each Flower Court member who kneels or bows to receive it, while Radar hands each courtier a matching boutonniere or corsage. The last two contestants receive a slightly larger flower crown and an extra prize as well--- a ribbon for being in the top three, decorated with a small flower-shaped metal charm. Susie's is bronze and Carolina's is silver. Once the formalities are complete, each pair files past Dahlia and Radar to take their seats at the high table.
Finally, it is time for the Flower Queen herself to arrive. By process of elimination, many onlookers have already determined the winner, but everyone still holds their breath as they await the arrival of their new Flower Queen.
And there she is. A vision in violet, escorted by North Dakota, is Fever Dream. The face of Town Hall, the hearse driver of choice for Mourner's Night, and a Daughter of Winter chosen by the goddess Mortanne herself. If ever were someone from off-world to deserve the title of "community pillar," none should deserve it more than her. The people have spoken, and they speak again as they erupt into thunderous cheering as their elected Queen appears at last.
As the pair make their way to the steps of the gazebo, a fresh shower of petals rains down upon them as the music swells to greet them. Once there, Dahlia steps down from the top landing, guiding Fever to stand there instead. A willful abdication, allowing the year to change and welcoming what comes next.
“Hail and merry meet.” Dahlia says, unable to contain her thrilled grin as she recites the words. “Today, just as I was one year ago, you have been chosen by the people of our town to be the Flower Queen. It is my honor to present you with gifts befitting a queen.”
Another townsperson passes her a basket, which Dahlia presents to Fever. It contains a number of spring-themed treats--- honey harvested from last spring’s flowers, a bottle of specially crafted sweet festival wine to be consumed on the summer solstice, a candle embedded with dried flowers, a blend of lavender and bergamot tea, a charming floral soap, and a necklace with a pressed forget-me-not inside a clear pendant. There is also a medal hanging around the wine bottle shaped like an orchid bloom, engraved on the back with text. “Flower Queen 16:56 - Pumpkin Hollow - Fever Dream”. Dahlia then passes the somewhat heavy basket off to North to carry--- after all, it’s the Courtier’s job to attend to the Queen!
Then, Dahlia pins a boutonniere to North's lapel, and beneath it, a medal of his own. “Floral Courtier - 16:56 - Dmitri 'North Dakota' Katina”.
“With this sprig of Serannai’s glory, I bestow upon you the honored duty of Courtier to the Flower Queen. Assist her as she needs and ensure that she spends this day as free and joyful as a spring breeze.”
Lastly, Dahlia turns back to Fever and lifts up the crown of flowers from her own head, larger and more elaborate than the others, holding it aloft for a moment before resting it upon Fever’s head.
“With this crown, I pass my title on to you. May it bring you felicity and fortune, so that you may share it with the earth as you put seed to soil.”
Before they all proceed up to the gazebo to join the rest of the Floral Court at their table, Dahlia takes Fever's hand and leans in to whisper to her. "Congratulations, love. You've more than earned it," Dahlia tells her emphatically, kissing her on the cheek. And then all four of them---- this year's Queen, the prior, and each of their courtiers, ascend the steps and take their honored places at the table.
Applause rings out over the crowd, music swells once more, and Merrymeet officially begins. Congratulations to Fever, and all the members of the Floral Court!
Short on Brass? Drop by Gourd en Glace before the event and grab yourself a sundae and bring it up to Venka Meridell, the proprietor who also happens to be the local tailor’s daughter. She’ll slip you a coupon for a half-price Merrymeet outfit if you’re willing to taste test one of her unorthodox new ice cream flavors. Her mother, Saraya, will begrudgingly accept these coupons. [Mod Note: Please only take this option if you have 500B or less in your ledger, we are trying to get some of these rich-ass characters to spend their damn money!]
Once you’re all dressed to the nines, please feel free to use the code below to show off your drip in the Fashion Show thread! Please remember that imgur is still not functional in the UK, so use URLs from Pinterest, Snipboard, Catbox, etc. so that no one misses out on your drip. If you got a discounted outfit, you also have to include what weird flavor of ice cream Venka made you taste-test and whether it was good or not.
It's spent the last few days raining, patches of snow growing smaller and smaller until they are a memory. But yesterday, the sun was out, giving all that water a chance to saturate the earth while freshly-uncovered plants wake to sunlight and stretch toward its rays. Serendipitous. A blessed omen from Serranai herself. A sign that she, as well, is waking from her slumber. The world is alive again. Reborn, in that annual sacred miracle that is the onset of spring.
The Festival Green is decorated to the nines with all manner of fresh flowers---- early blooms and green-house raised. A naked maypole stands at the ready, loose fabric dangling errantly in the breeze. The gates open early, when the sun in her early morning vantage still stares just a bit harshly, still warming up to the idea of being aloft. Partygoers trickle in a few at a time, some eager to be early and others taking their sweet time in getting ready. It isn't until the light of later-morning softens and the world takes on the divine radiance of a sun-struck early spring day that Dahlia Leeds ascends the stairs of the large gazebo in a lush flower crown. A hush falls over the crowd of its own volition, and music begins to play, soft and rising. The procession is about to begin.
Crowning of the Flower Queen
Attendees line up along the pathway of flower petals leading from the festival gate to the gazebo, creating a colorful spectacle with their finery as they peek around each other, trying to get a look at the procession. To the tune of soft and pleasant music, the nominees for Flower Queen begin to file in, claim their prizes, and take their seats.First comes the honor court--- those nominated who did not manage to clear the first round of voting. They are attended by their "courtiers", the name used for their chosen plus-ones. They come in as a group, tossing ever more flower petals in a hail like confetti and waving to the crowd. Patty Paisley and Kelaiah Voxx ride on the shoulders of Mettaton, who escorts Grace Holloway. Margaret Houlihan and Anya Kovacs carry bouquets of flowers associated with healing, gifted to them by the local medical staff. Ashley Graham, Haley Beckman, Cassandra de Rolo are tasked with carrying banners--- long pennants with floral patterns on them, made of light fabric so that they dance in the breeze as they're carried in. And the youngest contestants, Noelle Holiday and Harrowhark Nonagesimus, bring up the rear, each looking their own flavor of nervous. They and their guests find their seats at the honor-tables circling the base of the gazebo, where a crown of flowers awaits each member at their seat. Then comes the Floral Court, the honored nominees that made it to the second round of the vote. They come in two by two with their courtiers--- Daisy Tonner with Basira Hussein, Valdis with Agni Azimar, Lyubov Morghenschtern with Shen Qingqiu, Zivia Birnbaum with Degas Clayton, Susie Dyneaux with Ralsei, and Carolina Church with Gerry Keay. They make their way down the aisle of the festival green and up to the gazebo. Standing at the top of the short flight of steps is Dahlia Leeds, the previous year's Flower Queen, standing proudly in her blue and white gown beside her own courtier. Gracing each pair with a greeting of “hail and merry meet”, she places a ring of flowers on the head of each Flower Court member who kneels or bows to receive it, while Radar hands each courtier a matching boutonniere or corsage. The last two contestants receive a slightly larger flower crown and an extra prize as well--- a ribbon for being in the top three, decorated with a small flower-shaped metal charm. Susie's is bronze and Carolina's is silver. Once the formalities are complete, each pair files past Dahlia and Radar to take their seats at the high table.
Finally, it is time for the Flower Queen herself to arrive. By process of elimination, many onlookers have already determined the winner, but everyone still holds their breath as they await the arrival of their new Flower Queen.
And there she is. A vision in violet, escorted by North Dakota, is Fever Dream. The face of Town Hall, the hearse driver of choice for Mourner's Night, and a Daughter of Winter chosen by the goddess Mortanne herself. If ever were someone from off-world to deserve the title of "community pillar," none should deserve it more than her. The people have spoken, and they speak again as they erupt into thunderous cheering as their elected Queen appears at last.
As the pair make their way to the steps of the gazebo, a fresh shower of petals rains down upon them as the music swells to greet them. Once there, Dahlia steps down from the top landing, guiding Fever to stand there instead. A willful abdication, allowing the year to change and welcoming what comes next.
“Hail and merry meet.” Dahlia says, unable to contain her thrilled grin as she recites the words. “Today, just as I was one year ago, you have been chosen by the people of our town to be the Flower Queen. It is my honor to present you with gifts befitting a queen.”
Another townsperson passes her a basket, which Dahlia presents to Fever. It contains a number of spring-themed treats--- honey harvested from last spring’s flowers, a bottle of specially crafted sweet festival wine to be consumed on the summer solstice, a candle embedded with dried flowers, a blend of lavender and bergamot tea, a charming floral soap, and a necklace with a pressed forget-me-not inside a clear pendant. There is also a medal hanging around the wine bottle shaped like an orchid bloom, engraved on the back with text. “Flower Queen 16:56 - Pumpkin Hollow - Fever Dream”. Dahlia then passes the somewhat heavy basket off to North to carry--- after all, it’s the Courtier’s job to attend to the Queen!
Then, Dahlia pins a boutonniere to North's lapel, and beneath it, a medal of his own. “Floral Courtier - 16:56 - Dmitri 'North Dakota' Katina”.
“With this sprig of Serannai’s glory, I bestow upon you the honored duty of Courtier to the Flower Queen. Assist her as she needs and ensure that she spends this day as free and joyful as a spring breeze.”
Lastly, Dahlia turns back to Fever and lifts up the crown of flowers from her own head, larger and more elaborate than the others, holding it aloft for a moment before resting it upon Fever’s head.
“With this crown, I pass my title on to you. May it bring you felicity and fortune, so that you may share it with the earth as you put seed to soil.”
Before they all proceed up to the gazebo to join the rest of the Floral Court at their table, Dahlia takes Fever's hand and leans in to whisper to her. "Congratulations, love. You've more than earned it," Dahlia tells her emphatically, kissing her on the cheek. And then all four of them---- this year's Queen, the prior, and each of their courtiers, ascend the steps and take their honored places at the table.
Applause rings out over the crowd, music swells once more, and Merrymeet officially begins. Congratulations to Fever, and all the members of the Floral Court!
Dress to Impress
Generally speaking, the dress code for Merrymeet is garden party formalwear. Appropriate outfits can fall anywhere in the Classic or Lavish categories. Characters here less than 2 months are able to get free rentals if they’d like, but can buy their outfit if they wish. Everyone else is asked to please purchase their outfit (from 300-500B, depending upon complexity).Short on Brass? Drop by Gourd en Glace before the event and grab yourself a sundae and bring it up to Venka Meridell, the proprietor who also happens to be the local tailor’s daughter. She’ll slip you a coupon for a half-price Merrymeet outfit if you’re willing to taste test one of her unorthodox new ice cream flavors. Her mother, Saraya, will begrudgingly accept these coupons. [Mod Note: Please only take this option if you have 500B or less in your ledger, we are trying to get some of these rich-ass characters to spend their damn money!]
Once you’re all dressed to the nines, please feel free to use the code below to show off your drip in the Fashion Show thread! Please remember that imgur is still not functional in the UK, so use URLs from Pinterest, Snipboard, Catbox, etc. so that no one misses out on your drip. If you got a discounted outfit, you also have to include what weird flavor of ice cream Venka made you taste-test and whether it was good or not.
…In the Golden Afternoon
Springtime Spread
It doesn’t take long for lunch to be brought out, courtesy of some helpful volunteers and the Oak & Iron’s diligent cooking staff. Salads full of spring greens, fresh bread with herbs baked in, puff pastries with fresh cheese and asparagus, egg tarts, chicken sandwiches, and crispy little hashbrowns formed into cups to look like bird nests, each with a devilled egg sitting inside. There are also dozens of little desserts made with flowers and spring berries, like cakes and custards, and even heart-shaped macarons.And while there is wine being passed around the table, there is also tea. But this isn’t just any tea, and these aren’t just any tea pots. The pots are clear glass, surrounded by ornate silver fixtures, so that you can see the color of the tea and the leaves steeping within. Some are regular tea leaves rolling around in ball strainers while others are blooming floral teas perched in the center of the pots. And best of all, these teapots are enchanted, looking like chubby little tea puppies walking around on four short metal legs. They meander around between dishes on the tables, bumbling up to partygoers to offer their contents and tipping forward with surprising grace to pour tea into cups. They are helpfully labeled with tags tied to their handles, explaining what they contain.
And the teapots aren't the only thing that's been enchanted---- the teas themselves have been blended with some mood enhancers! The intensity of the effects depends on how much you drink and how susceptible to these sorts of things you tend to be, but don't worry--- if you don't like what you got, the drink won't overstay its welcome. Unfortunately, though, these enchantments are a bit experimental, and some of them don't really work as intended…
Well, don't worry too much about it. Surely nothing can go wrong, right? Anyway, the selection available is as follows:
Spiced Apple Blend - A black tea blend with fresh apple slices that makes the drinker feel happy! A great way to bring up the mood if you didn't make it to the festival in the best of spirits.
Orange Blossom Herbal - A delicious floral and citrus tisane that evokes a playful feeling, encouraging jokes and shenanigans along with making the drinker feel a little bit giggly.
Invigorating Green - an energizing green tea that has somewhat mixed effects--- while some may find it perks them up so they can dance longer and party harder, others may find that it provides a bit too much of a zing. The urge to burn off all that energy might be enough to send you for a jog or even a few push-ups, despite your finery, or you may just end up raising your heart rate for a bit.
Steamy Ginseng - for folks looking for a boost to their romance game, this warming tea will have the drinker feeling flirty! Be sweeter, more charming, and more receptive to romance!
Earl Grey, Hot - enjoy a boost of confidence with a strong cup of this classic black tea. You'll be as bold as bergamot!
Calming Chamomile - While this tea is intended to relieve tension, in some cases it will just make the drinker incredibly sleepy.
Pitch Black - this strong breakfast blend was intended to reduce sad feelings in the drinker, but there seems to have been a mishap in the brewing that now causes it to make you sadder. At least the tea is delicious--- it's probably one of the best-tasting teas you've ever had.
Bee's Delight - a bit of a misnomer. While this honey-infused lemon ginger tea was meant to draw on the social prowess of the bees involved in its making, it was accidentally brewed with honey from bees that were very angry with the harvester.
Enjoy any of these with your meal to turn up the mood! While these teas are clearly labeled, it's up to you whether or not you actually read them. Accidents can happen!
Planting Ritual
After the food is served and everyone's had plenty of time to eat, Dahlia calls everyone over to the far side of the Festival Green nearest Town Hall. Fever has a floral-print apron tied over her dress and has Her Majesty's Royal Spade in hand, and she and Dahlia stand in front of a small plot of earth with a row of tulips planted behind little stone plaques. A whole line of them, from nearly half a century of Flower Queens--- Juniper Sweetwater, Mary Dahl, Dahlia Leeds, and now, Fever Dream.This part of the ceremony is short, just involving Dahlia and Fever saying a brief prayer to Serranai over a new tulip bud, followed by Fever burying it next to the others, which have already begun to sprout for the impending spring. Won't it be exciting to see what color the petals are in a month or two?
Once that concludes, Fever is released from her protective gardening get-up, and the party gets started in earnest. Time to dance, mingle, and enjoy a festival blessedly free of demonic or eldritch intervention. Who knows how many of those we have left?
Dance the Day Away (or whatever else you like!)
Food is a staple of any good Concordian holiday, no matter where on this beautiful planet you may find yourself, but it surely isn't all there is to do at Merrymeet. After all, what's a garden party without a bit of dancing?Local musicians will be playing throughout the day for group and couple’s dances, including a local partner dance called the Sunrise Waltz and a classic maypole dance that is equal parts party game as it is fertility ritual. Feel free to dance the afternoon away with partners, friends, new acquaintances, and more!
There’s also areas to catch your breath and chat with friends, a chocolate dipping station with a variety of little treats, flower sprouts in tiny pots and premade seed packets as party favors, flower garland braiding areas, and plenty of wine!
Additionally, there are a few tents scattered around the far edges of the green. They're pitched low to the ground, with the floor of them covered in cushions and the upper interiors are strung with flower garlands and silk drapes, creating a very romantic ambiance for couples looking to grab a private moment together away from the crowd. It's the perfect place for a kiss, a proposal, a confession of love--- or anything else that might call for a moment alone. (You’re not supposed to, but if you’re quiet and don’t mind a bit of risk, it wouldn’t be hard to sneak a little naughty fun into your day in these little tents. Just keep it stealthy--- this is an all-ages festival, and you'll get kicked out if you're caught being inappropriate.)
Also, if upon returning to their seats, everyone in town will find an invitation to a bit of an afterparty on the Bluffs, a whole year in the making, right down to the day. (Though in reality, it's several decades overdue.)
Whether this is your first time celebrating this time-honored tradition with us, or you've been with us for all three years, or anywhere in-between, it is our sincere hope that this Merrymeet finds you well and joyful. Take this opportunity to share love, whether that's for your partners, your friends, or something somewhere in the middle, and greet spring with open arms. The festivities will at last draw to a close when the sun begins to set --- the perfect time to head out and grab some dinner, either at home or at unrelated gatherings, wherever you might find them.
Merry meet, merry part, and merry meet again, my friends.
| CONTENT WARNINGS: mood alteration (optional)|
QUESTIONS/COMMENTS/CONCERNS
FASHION SHOW
Haley | Stardew Valley
fever | baldur's gate 3
Marik Ishtar | Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters
Daisy Tonner | TMA
Gwen Stacy | Spiderverse Trilogy
Zivia Birnbaum | OC
Edgar | Snowpiercer (2013)
Cassandra de Rolo | Critical Role
Agni Azimar | OC (D&D, Curse of Strahd)
Mettaton | Undertale
Dr. James Harvey | Casper
Rose's One-Trick Pony Thunderdome
Gerry [ for Carolina ]
This time, however, he's with her. And he couldn't be more proud. She looks fantastic, all sleek fabric and tone muscle and sharp angles meeting sloping curves that create visual interest to her in such a way that she surely must have been designed by an artist rather than by nature alone. She's a goddess. A vision in aquamarine. And he's beyond smug at the idea that he gets to be the one to show her off.
The ceremonial entrance ends, and he's equally content to tease her once the chatter picks up and dinner plates come out. "Not too arduous, was it?"
Kris [ Various ]
...Mean Girls
[ Susie ]
...Fluffy Boys
[ Ralsei ]
...Spooky Nuns
[ Harrowhark ]
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Agent South Dakota | RvB
And I'm just tryna play it cool now [for Haley]
It's not that kind of date, that's what South tells herself, from the night to the morning before the dance. It's not that kind of date. She invited you because you're the friend that nominated her. Even as she gets ready, dressing herself up in the vest Haley made her, her brother helping her fuss with the cravat she's probably going to abandon half-way through the day, she's insistent.
("It's not like that, Di. Just— leave it, okay?")
But fuck, she'd be lying if she said she didn't wish it was.
Haley looks gorgeous. It's all South can do not to stare too hard, from the moment they meet up, through the procession and beyond. She tries to keep her eyes on anything but Haley's cleavage, which somehow ends up in her staring at fucking CT's equally overflowing dress for a little too long which is not better, that's worse actually for a lot of reasons, and— fuckdammit she's hopeless.
Right. Focus on your actual date. Friend. Date. South grunts, tugging a little at her collar. "Ugh, this thing is driving me nuts..."
But that's not what I wanna do now [OPEN]
Public gatherings have been... tricky, for South, since she arrived. Celestine's was mostly a fucking nightmare. The holiday stretch, as a whole, was mostly a fucking nightmare with brief reprieves. But this time, this time, South actually seems to be in a pretty good mood (even before she and Haley disappear for a while, though she's certainly glowing even brighter when they come back).
She says no to the wine whenever it's offered, and feels pretty proud of herself for managing to. She doesn't shy away from chatter at the table, a little more confident on the outside even as she feels a little awkward on the inside. She bothers her brother and she congratulates Carolina. She might even let people that know her drag her into a bit of dancing (Haley sure won't let her get away with not joining her).
She does seem to be in a bit of an ongoing battle with the tea puppies, though. They keep coming by to offer her something to drink, but, honestly, the magic sounds a little too close to getting drunk, for her. Do the tea puppies understand this? Apparently not. Which is why you might see her shooing them. "Jesus christ take a fuckin' hint!"
[ Or hit me up / wildcard me for something specific. ]
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"Do you need me to loosen it?" Seems like North might have tied the cravat a little too snug. He's probably never done it before.
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tea puppies
Rowena takes a glass from one of them with a sweet smile, before shooing them back away with a gentler gesture of her hand.
"Taking the glass may stop them returning. You don't have to drink it." Rowena didn't plan to, though she was also curious about the magic within it, if she could puzzle it out.
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general party talk.
"You look like you're having a lot more fun than last time."
More sure of herself.
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Erik Lehnsherr | XMCU
So it's surprising that he's even here to begin with. An effort on his part not to isolate himself, particularly being a fairly recent arrival. Besides, he figures there might be something to learn at every new event and opportunity he gets. He doesn't want to waste what little money he's managed to make so far on an expensive outfit he might not wear again, so he chooses to rent something that, of the options on offer, is stylish while not too unlike him. Perhaps in lighter colours than he remembers wearing in the past decade, but he does manage to make it look good enough.
He doesn't mingle necessarily, though. He helps himself to some food instead, and as the teas are passed around, he accepts a cup. He's not particular on flavours, so at any given time, when you approach him to say hello or he bumps into you as he gets up from the table, he may be feeling one particular way or other. Whichever of them, it's quite possible he's in a much better mood now than he was before. ]
Sorry. [ He'll apologise if he's actually bumped into someone. Probably smiling after he's had a drink of the spiced apple blend. He feels great. ] I didn't hurt you, did I?
DANCE THE DAY AWAY
Despite his disposition, he's unlikely to suggest dancing unless someone else actually asks him. He's not expecting it since most people here don't even know him, let alone get along with him, but watching everyone else dance and circle happily around the maypole is entertaining all on its own.
He takes a glass of wine at some point, plucking at some of the flowers being used for the garlands, and once all the socializing starts to get to him, he absconds to one of the tents on his own. It's a tad too romantic for him, honestly, but the pillows look especially comfortable, and he allows himself to relax and sit down for a break, wine glass still in hand. ]
😘
"You almost look a little jealous." Her head nods briefly to those dancing behind them. Maybe she'll ask you, Erik.
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Springtime Spread
Before he's even finished speaking, he waves his hand over the stain -- and it vanishes, like it was never there. There is nothing showy about the gesture, nothing that indicates Shen Qingqiu was trying to show off. He simply wanted it gone.
fever (dark urge) | baldur's gate 3
The Floral Court is told of the Queen before Merrymeet starts, of course - they couldn't line up right otherwise. Fever's wondered who it could be all morning, and as the names are listed, she's feeling excited, anticipatory. Everyone looks beautiful, there's no chance of Efrain pulling a repeat party crashing, and she hasn't received any deeply upsetting news in the past few days. It's as good as it's going to get. And if the party gets overwhelming, she'll make her excuses and leave. Simple, easy. This year will be fun.
The mayor reads the list, and Fever listens, ready to applaud the results.
Susie in third is wonderful - the young woman is someone Fever only vaguely knows about from her birthday, but it's good news. Carolina taking second thrills her. And then, Mayor Poe announces first place, and the world seems to get...muted, for a second. She didn't hear that right. Did she? Not her. Not after everything people know. There's so many shining, beautiful options - every one of those around her would be suited to the crown, over her, and yet, the looks she's getting aren't that of an elaborate joke or a fading illusion. First place, Fever Dream.
People are smiling, and later, she'll feel bad that she froze, but the wide eyed surprise is covering her feeling so much at once. Unsteady, but a newborn delight is unfurling in her chest, like a flower starting to open in the first light of spring. For this moment in time, she cannot speak, and looks around at everyone as if to confirm it's really still happening. Fever Dream, Flower Queen - a far, far cry from the woman who was brought to these shores nearly two years ago, frightened and uncertain of her place in the world.
Later, when Dahlia places the crown upon her head, it finally feels real. Fever's eyes will well up with tears - but she will also be beaming with joy.
festivities.
Lunch is served, and royalty or not, no one can resist the spread that's been set up. Fever's going to do her due diligence to the sheer variety of food - it's all so good - trying different things or asking people what they like to help her decide what to try next. There's only so much a single person's stomach can hold, but sampling offers a good variety. And, that says nothing of dessert. The teas are a surprise, but after the first few sips give her a warmer feeling, she decides to be a little careless, sampling a myriad of different types just to see how they'll make her feel. This one makes her laugh, and this one grants her serenity, and this one sends North out to run a few laps - she's very careful with her sips on this one.
Of course, being open for conversation is part of her royal duties for today. Those seated at the head table get first dibs, and Fever's merry as she chats away, but anyone else who wants to come up and snag her is welcome. A toast, a conversation, flower braiding, a dance - she'll be busy all day with all of what's asked of her, but she's smiling so much her face will later begin to ache. And the table isn't the only place she'll be, since eventually she'll want to wander, full of (natural) energy that will buoy her through the day.
When it comes time to plant a tulip in the ground, as the Flower Queen must, Fever lets Dahlia show her where to go. Fever presses her fingertips to the soil after burying her bulb, glancing at the row of bulbs from queens prior, and the prayer to Serranai is heartfelt. Still, she adds a whisper onto the end of it to the bulb itself - "grow strong" - and she's soon to rejoin the celebration proper.
wildcard.
[have a different idea you want to throw at me? go for it! want me to write you something custom? let me know, and I'll be happy to! let's have fun.
for teas, pick your poison! Fever won't be heavily committed to one drink, so the spectrum is wide open for what you want to play with.]
festivities
"Look at you. And to think you almost wanted to back out."
Leaning against the court's table, teacup still in hand, Daisy herself is noticeably looser around the edges than she is just about ever. Someone who doesn't know her that well probably wouldn't notice; it's subtle, right now, the way she's smiling more naturally and holding herself with much less defensive tension, but it's no less real.
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Post-Planting Ritual
He holds up the shawl. "You want this back now, or should we take it back to the table?"
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Theta | RvB
Theta's nervous.
This isn't exactly new, he's nervous most of the time. But he's a little more nervous than average today because unlike most days, he can't just glue himself to North's side. North has things to do with the nice looking pale lady with the freckles and other adult friends to spend time with. And even if South would take him (she wouldn't) she's also busy with the girl she likes. Which means he's mostly with Mister Pennyburrow, in the lead-up to the main event, and for a while after. Which is okay, Mister Pennyburrow is nice, Theta trusts him well enough, but he's still not used to being away from North or around so many people.
So a lot of the time, if he's not with Pennyburrow or North, the oddly-coloured eyed young teen in his nice purple vest is hovering around the outskirts of everything. He's a fidgety sort—shifting from foot to foot, wringing his hands, fiddling with bits of his outfit. He's still a very new face to town, having only arrived a couple weeks back and spent most of his time at home or school rather than town, so maybe he stands out.
Occasionally, though, he wanders. You might catch him trying to peer through the crowds to find one of his trusted adults, looking rather out of his depths and occasionally bumping into people with a, "Sorry!"
Or maybe by the chocolate dipping station, where the kid's eyes quickly get bigger than his stomach. Figuring out what food he likes (and remembering to eat proper meals) is an ongoing process, but a teenager is a teenager, and he does love sweets. Encourage him to slow down, or find him sat nearby looking a little bit sick.
[ Or hit me up to plan something more specific. He's nervous enough opens and closed starters are easier than tagging him around, so far. ]
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"Hey dude!" North musses Theta's hair, grinning. "How'd I look up there?"
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Gwen Stacy | Spiderverse Trilogy
It, admittedly, does suck just a little when it sinks in that she's the only one in her age group that she's friends with that hasn't made one of the courts somehow. Obviously, it's fine. It really is fine. They're all having fun, and it's not as if they're going to be glued to the table, unable to socialise, but still. FOMO is real, and it hangs over her through the procession, watching everyone walk up. Whatever. It doesn't stop her waving encouragingly, or cheering for Carolina and Susie for making the top three.
And if they're all going to be stuck up there for a bit before the party really loosens up, then she guesses she's just going to have to make her own fun.
"Do you think they'll kick me out if I climb up on top of the Gazebo?" she might ask someone, eyeing the structure like a challenge. It would be easy. She did it last year, even, just only after things went to total shit.
Maybe someone tries to talk her out of, maybe they don't, but eventually she decides upon the principle of 'eh, I'mma risk it' and webs herself up there. It's a little more clumsy in the dress she picked this year but it's not impossible by any means, and being sticky as she is she manoeuvres around with relative ease. With what goal in mind, you might ask?
Mostly bothering her friends on the court—and anyone else who happens to see her head poking down into the gazebo from above. This can range from anything from staring until they notice her, aggressively pssting and then ducking away, or gently beaning someone in the head with a pebble (it's a safe throw strength, she's very careful about that.)
...it's possible she's had some of the Invigorating Green.
When Gwen's not being a pest, she's still finding ways to keep herself busy. Making monstrosities of dripping chocolate over at the dipping station is a favourite of hers, to the point it's a miracle she doesn't get it on her dress. Sometimes, she helps Pennyburrow wrangle one of the younger kids who's causing trouble or eaten themself sick (or worse, drank one of the teas that makes them hyper). And when she's calmed down a bit herself, she sits herself down at the flower garland station where she weaves primarily combinations of pink, blue and white together. (She has a brand, goddammit.)
[ Or hit me with something / poke me to plot something more specific. ]
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"Hey, Gwen! I think you dropped these!" She calls up to the top of the gazebo once she catches sight of Gwen, and without hesitation, she reels her arm back, tossing one, two, then three pebbles.
(It doesn't take her long to start turning single pebbles into a small barrage of them. There's a lot of tiny stones to throw, after all, and they don't have all day, do they?)
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Capochin | Great God Grove
A wealth of happiness and romance, indeed. Capochin seems to be in extremely good spirits, and without a drop of tea in him. The reason for this will reveal itself later, of course.
During the procession, he weasels his way to the front, squirming his way through the crowd. "Ey, move it! I ain't no more'n three feet tall, ain't you ever hoid the rule dat short people get to stand in the front?" He's making quite a racket---- will you help him move forward, hold him back out of spite, or do whatever it takes to get him out of your hair? He'll gladly tell off anyone who dares get mad at him. "Hey, fuck you! You got a problem wit' etiquette?" Rich, coming from him.
But then the procession nears its end, and it becomes very clear exactly what he was so invested in this for. As soon as Carolina comes through, receiving her second place charm, he's noisy again. Whooping and cheering, his voice rises above others. "YEAH!! THAT'S MY GIRL!" (He seems emotional about this. Don't point it out to him.)
Then it's lunch time. With a glass of fancy strawberry wine, he samples just about everything there is and chats excitedly with everyone at his table about it. "Ooh. They had dese egg t'ings last year. Delish. Poifect brunch. You tried one? You oughta. Y'know, next year, someone oughta suggest they have mimosas at dis thing."
After lunch, there's dancing. Of course he saves a dance for Hector, light of his life. And he spends a fair bit of time sneaking little envelopes onto every seat at the festival, but when it's time for the maypole, well---
"I think I might be a lil short for dis," he admits begrudgingly, barely able to hold his streamer. With a wry look, he flashes a faux-innocent grin at a taller bystander. "Hey. You ever played 'Chicken' in da swimmin' pool before?"
Otherwise, Capochin can be found mingling, dancing, or lounging lazily at his table. Towards the end of the night, he nurses a cup of Earl Grey tea, for confidence.
- Diamond Twilight -
Here it comes.
They invited the whole town, for a number of reasons. It's convenient, for one. Everyone's already dressed up, right? Plus the Bizzyboys are a community organization first and foremost. And yeah, maybe it's a little bit because Hector loves the attention. He should get to have it. It's his day.
And so as the festival ends, Capochin makes his way up to the Bluffs, stopping only to swap his festival jacket for a white one.
Oh gods.
Here it comes.
It's finally, finally time.
It was kind of Kris, to play the piano for them. Kinder still of Dahlia to turn Pine Devil and fly an entire upright piano out to the Bluffs for them to play. This town really is full of good people.
There's an arch set up toward the edge of the cliff, the sprawling Black Jade Sea yawning in the background and creating a stunning dark emerald backdrop. There's no pastor to recite any ceremony, nor wedding party. The more formal wedding will happen back home, for one, and for another... the two of them have never needed anyone but them.
Capochin's eyes flick over to a little tent that's pitched just within the treeline, knowing that Hector's back there.
The love of his life, his everything, his soulmate. Despite all the hardship, all the pain, all the hard work and hard lessons and hard falls from grace. Everything, everything, everything has always been him, from a chance meeting at a local bodega on a dreary day and an illicit cigarette purchase, to a shabby apartment and a dream, to that first day in God Grove with the sun in his eyes and still only ever being able to look at him. Falling into bed on a shared pull-out couch, running errands for gods, a nomination, an election, a win. Ascension. Godhood. Joy, revelry, renewed purpose, popularity, notoriety. Pain, self-harm, sacrifice, jealousy, schemes, self-destruction. The rise, the fall, the rise again. Arguments, embraces, tears of joy and sorrow, horror, healing, domesticity, a long-awaited first kiss. A dance of flowers. A ring. From 17 and 18 to 56 and 57. Thirty-nine years. And today, the first day of the rest of their lives.
Capochin goes first, proceeding to the end of the aisle and standing under the archway. His throat is already tightening. The music changes, swelling slightly, to give Hector his cue. But the moment he sees his amo, the tears start running. Cobdammit, he had been so determined to be composed. There goes that.
Hands outstretched, he takes Hector's hands in his own. He laughs incredulously, still disbelieving that this could be real. An old dream, come true at long, long last.
"You wanna go first or me?"
Once the two exchange their vows, they kiss just as the sun fully sets in the west behind them, and like sparks from a hot iron the last amber rays of sun strike the sky and wash the pair in molten gold. Their Bizzyboys perform their final duty of the day--- showering them in flower petals. The red and white rose petals rain on the pair, then flutter off into the breeze, off the edge of the Bluffs and into the sea.
Then it's dinner time! A simple table set-up is lined with plates and cutlery, and covered dishes that upon being touched are clearly enchanted to stay hot. They are full of the most delicious-smelling lasagna one could imagine. It's a simple meal compared to the festival's finery, but clearly a lot of work--- Capochin did all of this on his own, save for the enchantments. It's modest, but done with love, as is the way of Drain.
The grooms don't sit anywhere special like a head table, just in the middle of the center-most table. As the sky fades from orange and pink to dark blue to black and the stars begin to wake for the night, you can find them happily talking with their beloved friends and accepting congratulations over a meal that Capochin's mother would be proud of.
What a good day.
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"That's gonna be us someday," she sobs, patting Pokey's back like she's the one comforting Kel, instead of the other way around. "We're gonna be so pretty babe, I can't wait to marry youuuuuu...buwuhwuhwuh..."
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Daisy Tonner | TMA
When Daisy accepted the nomination (which she didn't need to be an Eye Avatar to know was Jon's retaliation for the Pickle King nomination, last year) she expected nothing of it. Pumpkin Hollow is more home, now, than maybe anywhere else has been in her life, but she still considers herself a rather... steady, but understated, presence in town. Hell, her biggest splash was defending Dahlia, which paid off in the end but couldn't have earned her much favour in some circles. Winning is never on her prediction card. Fever winning is the best thing that could have happened.
So you could say making it to the final court is a surprise.
She makes a joke to Basira, when they have a moment, that maybe Dahlia will let the two of them get away with using this like a wedding reception so they don't have to do something proper. (They both know she won't, they're going to have to do that ceremony eventually. Which... Daisy actually doesn't mind, now the actual paperwork is sorted. There's no risk she gets cold feet and ruins it.)
Even so, when Daisy and Basira take their place at the Flower Court's table, she leans up against her wife's side and laces their fingers together beneath the table. It's going to be a good day, she's determined of that.
Now, those who have known Daisy for a time may know this: she can't get drunk. In fact, the only time she's ever been drunk she was twenty-four and had just been promoted to Detective. By the time she was twenty-eight, the Hunt had changed her metabolism in such a way it was no longer even possible. Not by earthly means. Magic, however...
She feels good. She feels... safe, all things considered. In control of herself, if not of the situation in town. So, she considers, and ultimately accepts a serving of Orange Blossom Herbal tea and drinks it all in a couple gulps.
It's subtle, at first. She loosens up a little in a way that's most likely only really noticeable to her loved ones—an easy smile on her face, instead of her usual RBF, the way she holds herself much more relaxed. But with time, those close to the gazebo might just hear her absolutely cackling at some unheard joke from one of her partners and if you run into her around the party, you might just trigger the same, rarely-heard laughter from her yourself.
She's even actively grabbing people to drag them out to dance, swirling her skirt. Who is this woman?
for Basira
"Still kinda can't believe we actually did it," she laughs against Basira's shoulder, at some point in the day. She's playing with Basira's fingers a little, fussing, occasionally, with her ring finger where she really should be thinking about getting them both rings for the eventual actual ceremony. "We might be a little crazy. Just—"
She pinches her fingers together.
"—a little. Little crazy. People are gonna go mental."
There's a heavy beat. The kind of beat that usually means Daisy has some idea or another, but maybe a little orange blossom flavoured this time.
Marik Ishtar | Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters
He watches the ceremony attentively but he's only mildly curious about this little Pumpkin Hollow custom. Really, he's mostly people watching. Putting names to faces, watching body language. You can bet Marik shoots Harrowhark a certain look when the two catch each other's eyes.
Although he spends most of his time with King Halo, most likely gossiping and/or chatting about plans with her, others can catch him by himself from time to time. For the afternoon spread, he's casually avoiding the foods with meat/eggs and finds he isn't fond of wine. Guess he'll be sticking with the teas then. (Gods help whoever bumps into him, depending on what brew he's helped himself to.)
And thanks to Valdis teaching him the basics last month, Marik has been practicing his dancing for just such an occasion. Should you be interested, the boy will gladly accept the offer to dance — depending on who you are, that is.
[ For King Halo ]
It was kind of surprising how close he and the Umamusume have gotten since meeting on his birthday. As if it was fate offering him someone he could truly confide in, someone who encouraged him but also held him accountable for his actions.
Someone to help him become a better person. He's never had a true friend before.
A pity Marik is still relatively the same as ever, still wanting power that isn't truly his, wanting to be something more. Despite all of that, he's quite happy for having met King Halo and for the genuine happiness she's brought to his everyday life.
The tomb keeper takes care of those he considers 'his.' Which is why he's tried to spoil her for this festival. She deserves to be happy, to be celebrated.
After a fun, relaxed afternoon of chatting, eating, and being merry, Marik slowly rises from the table and holds a hand out to his friend with a smile.
"... Would you care to dance, King?"
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When Harrowhark accepted her (anonymous) nomination— a lapse of judgement, definitely— she did not anticipate being exhibited in front of a crowd. Her chétif stature won't save her here— no hiding behind the backs of the individuals in front of her— and her black robes make her stand out like a bruise on pale skin. She's accompanied by Kris Dreemurr, who is dressed lavishly, diametrically, in pink.
Spotting Marik in a crowd is easy. Harrow scans from right to left, and when she's found the most garishly dressed person with the pointiest crop of hair, she knows she's found him. Her eyes narrow. Her painted lips pull back into a sneer. Predictably, the animal worshiper seems to have stolen his guest from the stables.
Later, Harrow's composition changes dramatically. It's the damned tea. That stupid, muddy, blacker-than-death tea she plonked ice into then gulped down like an animal, feeling compelled to participate, then regretting this immediately. Regretting it so much that, after two big gulps, she spat out the rest into the grass.
What is it called? Oh yes, Pitch Black.
The girl looks unholy miserable. She's frowning cartoonishly, skull paint on the verge of losing its detail and deliquescing into one grey, despairing blur. She sees no reason she shouldn't curl up in fetal position and stay there for the remainder of the night. Dark corner— soft grass— just lie down and perish.
And he's in her way. Harrow stands directly on Marik's cape. She can hardly bring herself to lift her head up, for how heavy she feels.
"Whose curtain did you steal?"
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father mulcahy | M*A*S*H
ii. knelt by him and tried to pray [closed to gaeta]
iii. left him lying there at rest [open]
iv. crucifix upon his breast [wildcard]
iii
The answer is no.
Mettaton approaches him, offering a friendly smile and a gentle tone as he speaks.
"If I may make a suggestion, darling? Rather than just the flowers behind your ear... Why not use that lovely braided weave as a flower crown?"
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Dr. James Harvey | Casper
springtime spread —
Calming Camomile
... Except he wasn't expecting the man to be passed out at the table. He knows his sleeping schedule isn't great but... this seems a bit extreme?
The teen sits down next to him and gently shakes his shoulder, trying to ease him out of sleep.]
Mr. James... Hey, wake up...