Jancis

Franz with blushies Awesome! Clio gets the Banana Sticker!!

[align=center]"Lady Xenedra, please come forward and share your own enchanting tale to keep us all enthralled."[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus comes forward, her bright coat a start constrast to the white atmosphere."Hello again~"[/align] [align=center]"Truth be told, I don't have many love stories in my arsenal, but~"[/align] [align=center]"There's one love story I think most of us are familiar with, so..."[/align] [align=center]"The story begins with Oschon, one very near and dear to many of us here. As we wander, he watches over us, but who guides his foot falls?"[/align] [align=center]"One might argue that The Navigator is well suited to such a task, but no. Oschon creates his own path, with only the Sun and Moon to light his way."[/align] [align=center]"Throughout the day he'd make his way across the land, feet pointed in whatever direction felt natural to him at the moment and now and then he'd cast an appreciative glance at lovely Azeyma."[/align] [align=center]"The golden goddess rarely had time to acknowledge her celestial peer though, busy as she was filling the day with radiance for the multitudes of men and women working away. As she'd pass from his view they'd exchange a brief bow and that was that. His respect for the elder sister, then fell to the younger as she took her turn lighting his path."[/align] [align=center]"Gentle Menphina would follow Azeyma's blazing path across the then-blank sky, her light only a pale glow in comparison, but a comfort to Oschon after the day's bustle."[/align] [align=center]"Menphina, her attentions not torn by the masses like her sister, also had the time to exchange words with him. So across the spans and centuries and eons, from the time when they all began to walk their paths, whether straight or meandering, that is precisely what the two did."[/align] [align=center]"Each night, as Azeyma took her leave, Menphina would hurry into the sky to meet with Oschon and they spoke about wishes and dreams, fears and desires~."[/align] [align=center]"Oschon came to understand that blushing, luminous Menphina was very much like himself. A solitary soul wandering across her sky, guiding others, but never asking anything for herself. This struck him like a bow string snapping in hand, along with one even more startling revelation:"[/align] [align=center]He loved her.[/align] [align=center]"Quiet, giving Menphina had accomplished the impossible: she had stopped The Wanderer in his tracks."[/align] [align=center]"But he didn't stay still for long. Feelings realized, Oschon set out to find the path into the sky. WHAT path into the sky, you might say, but certainly if such a thing DOES exist, OSCHON should be able to find it, right?"[/align] [align=center]"And find it he did, guided by the wind, to a route hidden and undistinguishable to the mortal eye. Establishing his footing on the unfamiliar blackness, he set out resolutely for Menphina's soft glow."[/align] [align=center]Kestlona and others listen intently, leaning forward towards Xenedra and the story continues to unfold.[/align] [align=center]"He found her with her knees curled to her chest, feeble sobs shaking her bent form. Shock stilled Oschon for the second time, before he rushed to her side and pulled her to him."[/align] [align=center]"'Dear Menphina, what has happened?'" he pressed gently, tilting her chin up to meet his gaze."[/align] [align=center]"In her eyes he met with surprise and quickly blossoming relief."[/align] [align=center]"'You had gone! Disappeared for so long and I'd feared...' the thought died on her lips as she realized he was WITH her."[/align] [align=center]"'You're..!'" she gasped."[/align] [align=center]"'The reason I was gone. The way here is not easy to find.'"[/align] [align=center]"His words and his smile soothed her and for a time they simply held one another."[/align] [align=center]"Eventually he spoke, 'I cannot stay, not forever, you know this...' And of course he could not, the Wanderer MUST wander..."[/align] [align=center]"Her answer came as a forlorn little nod."[/align] [align=center]"'You'll no longer be alone when I'm not with you.'" With that, he took up her chin once more and kissed her for the first time. The glimmer from each tear flared to life, filling up the blank night sky.[/align] [align=center]"And that's how the very stars came into being; Oschon created them keep lonely Menphina company. Funny that his Wanderers use them even now to guide their way~"[/align] [align=center]Xenedra Ambreaus bows, the crowd lifting in applause! Shy as the sky seemed to be, a cover of clouds sheltered the beautiful stars, but the image still vivid in everyone's mind.[/align] [align=center][/align]

[align=center]Jancis looks around the crowd, beaming at Ojune once she spots him. "Though right now his hard work and skill is what is keeping us warm up here despite the snow, Master Ojune also has a talent for warming our hearts. Pray join us up here and share one of your wonderful tales with us all." Ojune Wajune bows to the group, "Hello everyone!" "Hello!" "Hi" “I hope all are well this peaceful night. Lets hear a hearty huzzah!” The crowd cheers, throwing their arms up "Huzzah!" “Ohhh a lively bunch!” Ojune exclaims. “Now, I have a story for you today called ‘Capturing Menphina’s Moon.’ One that I could use -your- help in the telling of. There will be points throughout where I’ll either flat out ask, or very strongly hint at some sort of reaction from you all. So do please join in! At the very least it will keep you moving against this chill while the ward takes on full effect.” Hibito walks forward, dragging Trulgar's coat - and Toka - along with him. Ojune clears his throat, letting that sink in and getting ready to present his tale. “Bordering the Northern edge of the Twelveswood stood a village. Quaint and unassuming as such things go and focused on tending the plum and cherry orchards of Gridania. And in this village lived a boy. Several boys actually but this is a story of Hedyn Hedges.”[/align] [align=center]“Hedyn was a boy of fifteen cycles and found himself to be quite average in everything. From his looks to his skills. He wasn’t as handsome as Wyndel. Or as strong as Bryian. He wasn’t as charming as Darrien wasn’t as graceful in the orchard’s canopy as Dion. Yet he wasn’t as weak as Kyle. Or as fat as Hoster and as uncoordinated as Loras. And he didn’t have Rothe’s goofy, long nose. Completely average.”[/align] [align=center]“This posed a unique problem for the lad in the area of impressing, or even un-impressing the girls. Most certainly not the smartest and most sought after girl of the village. He wasn’t even sure if she knew his name! He was invisible.” “I’m certain many of you have felt invisible at some point. How about a nice sympathy sulk for poor young Hedyn?”[/align] [align=center]“Now the girl of his un-obvious affections was a young miss Kimber East. Older by about half a cycle with sunkissed, freckled skin, long light brown hair with natural blonde highlights where the sun had lightened it. Her cloud grey eyes were round like she saw the wonder in everything about her and she always seemed to be smiling. [/align] [align=center]To young Hedyn she certainly was a vision to behold.” “As I mentioned already she was the most sought after girl in the village and there was the spring dance coming up the following moon in celebration of the spring’s first harvest. As such, it was very much the topic of conversation and highly anticipated from the oldest woman down to the younglings. Hedyn very much wanted to be the boy to take miss Kimber to the dance.” “If you’ve been to a dance or would like to, lets see some dance moves out there! If not, tell me no!”[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] “Kimber had been asked to the dance by several of the boys so far. Bryian and Dion had even gotten into a fistfight the previous sun when Bryian found out Dion had already used the same ‘clever’ pick-up line to ask her out with.” Ojune stage whispser and picks out Tokami Toka from the crowd, “You know it’s spring now. So how ‘bout we grow closer together at the dance next moon." “Anyroad! One afternoon while many of them were taking a break from their daily chores, Kimber finally announced that whomever did the best at capturing Menphina’s Moon, would be the one to take her to the dance. They had until the full moon set in nine suns time.”[/align] [align=center] “As you might imagine, telling such a thing to tween boys was met with a lot of blank looks and confused expressions. Do you have an idea perhaps? Give a cheer if you’ve got an idea already or give me a huh if you’re just as confused as poor Hedyn was.” “Unfortunately no matter how much the boys questioned or prodded they were unable to get anything further from Kimber and many went back to their daily duties just as confused as when she first made the announcement. Although a few of the smarter ones were beginning to have small flashes of ideas.” “Hedyn went back to his own chores, his mind reeling as he tried to think of -something- that he could do. When the sun had set and he was in his room for the night he was no closer to coming to any sort of conclusion. So he sat on his bed and thought.”[/align] [align=center] "And thought"[/align] [align=center] "And thought"[/align] [align=center] “He then turned his gaze to his window, looking out to the waxing moon with a sense of dread. Of the nine suns he’d wasted one already without any sort of idea on what to do.”[/align] [align=center] “He’d been staring at the moon for a time, when he noticed how the moon almost seemed to be captured within frame of the window. And a slow smile spread across his face as an idea formed. Eight more suns… It was a tight schedule but he thought he could do it.”[/align] [align=center] “Despite not sleeping very long, Hedyn woke the following morning early and energized like he hadn’t been for some time. After doing his morning chores quickly he begged and pleaded his parents to let him not do his afternoon duties in order to work on a ‘secret project’. Lets see some serious begging.”[/align] [align=center] “Hedyn’s parents finally gave in. They’d heard about Kimber’s announcement the day before and were not blind to the glances their only child sent the girl’s way. They weren’t going to hamper him from trying to impress his first crush and they gave him afternoons and evenings to work on his project. But made him promise that he’d work extra hard once this was over to make up for the prior days.”[/align] [align=center] “So with their consent Hedyn dashed from the house, his father’s bow in hand, and into the wood to collect landtrap leaves.”[/align] [align=center] “Upon his return from a successful hunt he saw funny-nosed Rothe presenting a painting of a young girl and a young boy kissing in silhouette before a large full moon. It was well done. Rothe was a pretty good painter. But he didn’t need to see Kimber’s reaction. He new his project would be better and he ran home to begin brewing the growth formula he needed.”[/align] [align=center] Ojune delivers a confident smirk. “The third day was a very long one. It took him a long while of searching the surrounding woods to find the perfect sapling. Which happened to be a walnut tree. And even longer to find the perfect location. An area where the eastern sky was clearly visible that was also able to support a large tree. But find them he did and he worked late into the night transplanting the sapling to the new location.”[/align] [align=center] “Exhausted he collapsed into his bed that night and slept very soundly. You’ve all had evenings like that, right?”[/align] [align=center] “Days four and five were mostly taken up with making small paper lantern and plying the sapling with growth formula. He was also starting on the basic shaping of the branches as it grew and ensuring that it had a large and sturdy trunk to serve as it’s base.”[/align] [align=center] “At the end of the fifth day he heard Dion serenading Kimber outside her window as Hedyn returned. He supposed it was sweet. The lyrics were nice, but Dion’s angelic voice of his youngling days had been replaced with the cracking of adolescence. And Hedyn couldn’t help but giggle to himself at some of the off notes he overheard.”[/align] [align=center] “The sixth and seventh days he began to shape the branches of the fast growing tree in earnest. It had reached about max height and was now in the process of filling out. Tying some branches together so they’d meld he continued to ply it with growth formula. It was tedious and difficult work, but soon the branches began shifting and bending around to the shape he wanted before he finally let them grow naturally upwards.”[/align] [align=center] “The eighth day dawned and a quick check on the tree showed that besides a few small branches and twigs that had grown inward, the tree was ready. It’s branches curving around an open space to create a window. then shooting upward and splaying it’s leaves to the sky above.”[/align] [align=center] “This meant that Hedyn was around when Wyndel decided to present Kimber with his offering. A plate with a beautifully formed pancake, fresh rolanberries marking out Menphina’s symbol on it’s surface. Pancakes and rolanberries with sweet cream.”[/align] [align=center] “Of course! They were her favorite foods. He watched as Kimber lit up at the gift. The biggest reaction any of them had gotten so far. Thanking him and taking a bite she declared the pancake ‘perfect.’ She even gave him a hug!”[/align] [align=center]Hibito glances down as his stomach rumbles.[/align] [align=center] “He couldn’t stand to stay around and watch any more. Or to listen to Wyndel’s inevitable gloating afterwards. So he slipped off to the tree where he watched the moon rise into the hollow of it’s branches. Hedyn tried to convince himself that this was better than the perfect pancake and ended up staying until the nearly full moon was high overhead. Poor kid could really use some encouragement.”[/align] [align=center] “The morning of the ninth day came, and Hedyn got a slower start than his previous mornings. His late night and anxiety taking it’s toll.”[/align] [align=center] “But he really didn’t have much left to do anyway. He took his time with the rest of the work, taking the paper lanterns and hanging them just above the grass to light the way to down the path. Doing a final trim on the tree and placing a white lily in small vase at the tree’s roots. He cleared the path of debris for when he’d lead her down it. And he took a scrap of cloth from his mother’s mending basket to use as a blindfold.”[/align] [align=center] “The sun had finally set, leaving a fiery red line across the tops of the trees that was slowly fading in it’s intensity. Allowing for the first few bright stars to appear. This was his cue. The moon would be rising soon. He found Kimber and hesitantly asked her, ‘Will you come with me tonight? I’ve captured the moon. But you’ll need to wear this over your eyes.’ He shows her the scrap of cloth.”[/align] [align=center] “She looked at him a bit oddly at first, before her expression turned into a kind smile and a nod. ‘All right. Just… don’t let me trip or run into anything, Hedyn.’”[/align] [align=center] “And after his assurance that he wouldn’t, she allowed the blindfold to be tied and they were off into the growing twilight. His heart soaring in happiness in that she agreed. -And- she knew his name! Perhaps he wasn’t so invisible after all. Lets see some happiness!”[/align] [align=center] “He stepped to the base of the tree and looked to see the top part of the full moon was just starting to crest into the window of leafy branches that were perfectly silhouetted against the moon’s bright light and the stars. The lanterns were still lit and were giving off a soft glow along the base of the tree and back towards the village.”[/align] [align=center] “With a nervous, ‘Just a couple more minutes.’ He retrieved the lily he’d prepared. Then when the time was right and the moon was in the branches embrace he untied the blindfold, standing off to the side while holding the lilly towards her. ‘Will you go to the dance with me?’ he asked.”[/align] [align=center] “The blindfold fell away and Kimber blinked a few times to let her eyes adjust to the sudden brightness of the full moon and stared at the scene before her. Her pale eyes illuminated in the moonlight and grew rounder and her mouth fell open in wonder. After a few moments a beaming smile graced her lips and she accepted the presented lily. It’s white petals glowing in the moonlight.”[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center] “She continued to watch in silence until the moon rose behind the circling branches. She turned and wrapped him in a hug as she spoke, ‘You’ll have my answer in the morning, Hedyn.’ And just like that she was gone. Leaving him to stand stunned at the contact.”[/align] [align=center] “It was a rough night for Hedyn, the anxiety on whether or not she’d choose him or Wyndel ate at his thoughts until he heard the rooster start it’s crowing and he finally dragged himself out of bed. He missed the knowing glances his parents exchanged when he only grabbed a heel of bread for breakfast and didn’t even say good morning as he headed into the courtyard where other anxious boys were gathering.”[/align] [align=center] “Have you ever been that anxious? Or are you always confident? Lets see it!”[/align] [align=center] “Kimber finally arrived looking as beautiful and refreshed as ever. She looked over the assembled boys and satisfied that enough were there, or at least that her choice was there, she began to talk. Her eyes roamed the group but finally locked with Wyndel, who immediately perked up, taking this as a good sign. ‘Thank you all so much for the wonderful gifts and favors over the last few suns. But now I’ve made my choice.’ Hedyn’s heart began to sink the longer she held Wyndel’s gaze."[/align] [align=center] “He stared into the dirt and missed when her gaze shifted to him. Barely hearing when she said, ‘Will you go to the dance with me, Hedyn?’ His head jerked up, had he heard that right? Then their eyes locked and a beaming smile spread across his face as he saw her holding out the white lily from last night. Towards -him-. With a big stupid grin he walked up to accept it, ‘I… yes!’ He didn’t even notice the dirty look Wyndel shot him or the disappointed groans from the other boys.”[/align] [align=center] “Lets hear a loud cheer for Hedyn!”[/align] [align=center] “And so, the pair went to the dance and many more beyond. While they eventually wedded other people, they stayed best friends for the remainder of their days. All for the capture of Menphina’s Moon.”[/align] [align=center] "The end."[/align] [align=center] "Thank you, Master Ojune!" Jancis beams, still clapping her hands a bit. "I do wonder if that is inspired by a true story..." Ojune blushes with embarrassment. [/align]

Letter is left in the Sworn offices addressed to Lady Crofte, no postage as Jancis dropped it off herself. Dear Cici, I am in the Jewel currently, though I am exhausted and I know not where you are. I continue to hope it is safe for you and the amount of secrets you keep are becoming more and more discouraging. I am beyond exhausted. I slept until the late morning. Walking to and from Coerthas on pilgrimage is no small matter; Thaliak only knows how I also ended up healing at the Grindstone. Still, it is too encouraging to see all the brave souls there willing to train among their peers for sport. I was quite surprised in both instances to see Master Franz. He was there to visit Menphina's stone and I had been so excited to see him there as well as relieved he was safe. I did get a letter from Lady Edda to watch over him. With how quiet the lady is and how little of her concerns she lets known, particularly about herself, it must be something that upsets her greatly. He has confessed much of himself to me, but to see him there by The Lover on that hillside overlooking the snowy hills and lights below as well as above, I know he is embracing far more in each step he takes. And he is giving, he was healing others at the Grindstone. Writing some of the scripts and glyphs I recognize including ones that were far more elaborate to deal with wounds and refresh the fighters for more. He must truly be the hero I saw that one day. He is a caring protective sort, though I worry to what end. Later that night I found him once more by the fountains and approached him. He eluded to being in duress and avoiding everyone around him less they also get pulled in. Despite my attempts to help him, all he did was basically send me away. It is frustrating and painful. I fail to understand that people whom willingly answer a call for help, who ask to be relied upon, in turn wish to be alone when shadow and poison fall on them. Am I that much of a burden? Have my failures become so evident and tiresome that Master Franz would not care for my offers? Time ago he was wounded and poisoned, literally, and I had not realized his fear for me to heal him. Using the rest of his energy he silenced me, closing my voice off and making it impossible to call out to the elements. It feels like he is doing the same thing all over again. I cannot understand what he fears or why. He should not be alone. Not at this time. It hurts. Despite the jab of uselessness I feel I must needs find someone he can rely upon and will not turn away. Someone who has not failed him before. I tire of secrets and will confront you next we meet. I care about you too much to let you carry burdens alone. Until I find you, be safe, and do not hide from me. Jancis

Jancis only swears on the grace of the Twelve. She had some beautiful words for Jin'li though. ...I wish I logged them. If those words weren't along the lines of:: "Kindness", "Kindly" or "Would you kindly..." Jin'li is disappointed in Jancis' unsaviour words. Lol. Don't worry. Franz has "a kindness" for Jin'li when he's feeling better. Expect PMs for a friendly visit. She did? Gods I wish I remember what I said at three in the morning after RPing all day long with the pilgrimage then the grindstone then thinking about cake. Kindly give it to him, Franz! Lalalalala~ Also on the terms of swearing, I think there's a rumor somewhere about a crow from a crow and that crow might have been something of Jin'li... does that count? mwahahaha

Pass out, such profanity! What a sailor! :dazed: Jancis swears all the time! "Thaliak's Grace!" :lol: While not game-oriented, this is always fun to take a gander at for some tasty off-collar words. http://www.museangel.net/insult.html Curr! Lout! Lewster!

ACK Hehehehe no fair I didn't think you'd be standing right in front of the door. ^_^//

[align=center]"I would now like to start the celebration! Lady Lilithium, who knows much of Menphina's grace and blessings, has come to us this day to speak. Lady, please, the stage is yours to herald the start."[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center]Lilithium Rinannis paused, glancing around at all the people who had gathered. She adjusted Mikh'a in her arms, the bundled up toddler nestled further against Lili while avoiding looking outwards at the crowd. Slowly she stepped towards the stone. "Thank you for having me here, m'lady. And thanks to all of you for coming!" The babyqo'te finally looked away from his mother out towards the crowd, his orangish red eyes widening before he shirked back against her. Lili began to speak, trying to raise her voice so others could hear her.[/align] [align=center]"Menphina is...well...she is the symbol of love. A love that I believe lives within us all."[/align] [align=center]"I wanted to speak today, as someone who is more then just a lover of our divine. More then a devout of Menphina herself...but as a mother."[/align] [align=center]"I had three children at a young age, and was told that it would change how I viewed all things till the end of my days. You know what? It did. Never have I met another living soul who could warp my way of thinking until I viewed the world with such wonder and brilliance that it took my breath away."[/align] [align=center]"While many affiliate Menphina as purely the lover, I sometimes like to see her as 'the mother' as well. 'The friend'. 'The sister'."[/align] [align=center]"Today especially, I see her as 'the mother'. The love I have for my children, both of blood and adopted, drives me forward on the days where it's too hard to bare. On the days when I'm stressed. Tired. Lost for words. Hopeless. All it takes is a single smile and my spirit is renewed. I know many who share how I feel, whether they are parentsm guardians...well, you get the idea." Lilithium smiled a little, moreso to herself.[/align] [align=center]"I hope that everyone, no matter who you are, can experience the boundless joy you can experience when you have one in your life that looks up to you as a friend. A protector. A guardian. A teacher. It is not only the hardest job you'll ever have...but one that will never stop rewarding you."[/align] [align=center]"On the days it gets hard? I turn to Menphina, and I let her guide me. I hope you all can find it in your hearts to do the same. Mikh'a? Say bye now." The little babyqo'te in her arms peeked out, gave a awkward flap of his hands, then tucked back against Lili once more. "Once again, thank you all for having me and stay warm!"[/align] [align=center]Lilithium bows to the applauding crowd.[/align]

Years of progression raiding in another game has given me a compulsive habit to re-equip my gear multiple times in a dungeon. :blush: See if I can find you online to help the 'not naked' fund later tonight.

Spoiler alert: most of my pictures come from one website and they have a little gallery of cute stuff for today. http://theberry.com/2015/02/26/morning-melt-26-photos/

Did they never erm...burn...the body? I believe Franz knows someone who would be comforted by Iglu's visit. edit: She'll be checking if people got "first prize", or something. Well the belief is she did, a pile of ashes left where she was.. .but they were in a place with urns aplenty and a bait and switch? Who can say... Awww! You are such a doll to prompt for posting one of my favorite screenshots eva!

It sounds like something Iglu (or generic no-name thug) would fit into!

Too much fun with my old photoshop and the filters. Album of the Menphina celebration: http://imgur.com/a/FXVvm

Very nice to have a weeknight event! Got to see Iskierka (eeee Iskiberry!) give fortunes once before, quick ones bless her heart for the crowd, and it was as great to watch. Even if your character isn't interested in getting their own, it's great to listen to others.:lol:

:surprise: I hope all of this doesn't deter from the idea of gathering together and not fighting. I know this sounds silly, thinking about these scarves makes me feel like people would be trying to look like bandits or avoid a spreading sickness... considering what people wear as their character's clothes.. who cares about the face if their arms and everything is exposed anyway. Though at the same time I guess depending on what people wear it'd be hard to see jewelry and it is also very level dependent for the look. The event is pretty overwhelming on top of answer questions in whispers and other spots. I did an awful job keeping up with the party chat. When I'm on mumble that's about the most I talk and even then it's not amazing (Poor Xenedra :blush:) I'm thinking until Oschon it should be a bit smaller and calmer as a pilgrimage so that should help. And soon we'll have sunshine and other things to worry about, not the cold! I think it'll be nice to go back down to the intimate setting like Nald'thal. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Started the IC log post (it's just the intro right now) http://ffxiv-roleplayers.com/showthread.php?tid=10325 Also the albums: Links to all pictures regardless what is added here. http://imgur.com/a/A8BCp#0 http://imgur.com/a/FXVvm

[align=center][/align] [align=center]A warm cover of clouds darkened the sky over Camp Dragonhead. Jancis and others looked on down the road towards the south, anticipating another group of pilgrims coming up from Fallgourd. Little bells were heard before sight of the group was gained, all heading up with guards and chocobos, stark constrast to the gray and blue colors the camp had with their multi-colored coats.[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center]Heading through the town across to the other archway, other pilgrims waited and grouped around one another or around the small pyres set up around the camp for them. Steam came up from mugs and hot food. Conversation was passing along like hot potatoes, everyone quick to talk to one another. [/align] [align=center]"My vain and often fruitless attempt to be taller outshined my sense for proper boots....of course..." "I was raised this way.. People should stay healthy no matter what it costs"[/align] [align=center]Chatter continued until the bells rang out, gathering everyone together once more from this break. Jancis Milburga rings the bell over her head, on her toes to look out around the crowd. [/align] [align=center]"Yes" "Ah, it seems it is time to commence..." A colorful lalafel remarked, offering her hand to an older miqo'te to help him up.[/align] [align=center]"Oh, time to pay attention~" "But.. It looks like it begins" "Shh-- shh." A pair of twin miqo'tes smooshes his brother's face with his warm hands, ears perked attentively.[/align] [align=center]"Welcome, Pilgrims! Our trek to Menphina's stone is near its close."[/align] [align=center]"Thank you all for coming, is very gracious of you. In being here, we show our affection, we show our approval, we express the love inside. Is many sides to love, but of each side they start within and are shown our actions."[/align] [align=center]"As we walk, reflect on these feelings and thoughts. What love signifies and how we use it to live. How we use it in our aspirations and dreams. How we give it, and in turn, how we receive it." [/align] [align=center]"As a great woman once said, 'Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.' and here we have all come together to one another. Let us not leave without feeling happier for it."[/align] [align=center]"Let us finish our pilgrimage to The Lover!"[/align] [align=center]"Ah, looks like we're headin' out! I gotta go help keep things clear 'n safe! See ya all at th' stone!" "Pray stay together pilgrims; we are safe upon the road." "Is anyone actually safe anywhere in Coerthas?" "Underground, maybe. -- Wait. No. The answer is no."[/align] [align=center]"Love is a force more formidable than any other. It is invisible - it cannot be seen or measured, yet it is powerful enough to transform you in a moment, and offer you more joy than any material possession could."[/align] [align=center]"Love is friendship that has caught fire. It is quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for weaknesses."[/align] [align=center]"Friends can help each other. A true friend is someone who lets you have total freedom to be yourself - and especially to feel. Or, not feel. Whatever you happen to be feeling at the moment is fine with them. That's what real love amounts to - letting a person be what he really is."[/align] [align=center]"Love is truly like a friendship caught on fire. In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning and unquenchable."[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center]Up the snowy road they climbed, many walking together to check one another's step. Guards lined the snow, running forward in their boots to deal with the creatures that made the ruins of Steel Vigil their home. At Menphina's stone upon the cliffside, the clouds parted enough to show the height they ascended to. The pilgrims were ushered close together in the ring of stones.[/align] [align=center]"Gather close pilgrims. Though we are in the cold, we have a ward to be built by Master Ojune to keep the cold at bay as we celebrate here at the Lover's stone. Master Ojune, if you please."[/align] [align=center]Ojune Wajune beckoned everyone closer as the last of the pilgrims made their way up to the crowd. "Please move inside the standing stones if you wish to be inside my ward! I've used them to mark the boundry!"[/align] [align=center]Ojune commands his carbunkle to the opposite end of the stones, using its power to help activate the barrier wards against the stones. As he begins to channel, the wards begin a pale white glow and a shimmery boundry envelops the area, no snow or wind penetrating inside.[/align] [align=center][/align] [align=center]Jancis bows to Ojune, "Thank you. Shall surely take the chill off of everyone. Please feel free to settle down and be comfortable pilgrims."[/align] [align=center]A'randr turns away from Rho, clearing his throat as he digs in his pack for a tarp. He came prepared! He spreads it out over the ground beneath them. No wet tails today. A'rho sits beside his brother, sharing his massive coat. The inside pockets are full of what appears to be aether shards- thankfully not of the over-aspected variety.[/align] [align=center]Jancis bows before eveyrone, a duet of musicians setting up inside the farm boundary. A light flute plays accompanied by a guitar. [/align] [align=center]"Ladies, Lords, pilgrims of all ages. Thank you again for coming."[/align] [align=center]The pilgrimage completed, the celebration began![/align] [align=center]qjQcPmfHpLI [/align]

Eeeee... Awww it's someone tiny.. made tinier. :lol:

... what do you mean JUST A FEW DAYS?! :cry: I wouldn't want her to leave...

Jancis is a bit character in one of my favorite book series about Pern. For what little is written about her shows the ambition to think outside the box and follow others to make the world a better place. A lot of Pern's names are based off of a mix of European backgrounds which fit the hyur guidelines and is also fairly androgynous. I used the name once before many years ago in a MUD called Achaea. Piemur is involved in a large amount of the controversial "progress" that occurs after the awakening of the AIVAS, and together with Jancis, granddaughter of Mastersmith Farandel, rebuilds one of the first computers. Piemur later marries Jancis, and has a son, Pierjan. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Characters_in_Dragonriders_of_Pern#Piemur Milburga is the name of a Saint. Another inspiration for the conjurer's background. Fun fun. And appropriately her feast day is today. Her feast day is 23 February. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mildburh

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Me too at the start! Everyone new it's so easy to feel that everything is 'beyond amazing' and then find out later that 'oh, it's only sort of amazing' and more importantly as things aren't brand new anymore they (at least in one color or partly) depreciate in value. Granted not everything is possible, but a little creativity can make something simple go a long way. A coat, a hat, come gloves, a hooded cowl. Say it's lined with fur. I guess overall the most important thing is never think about a reason not to go to an event. Make up an excuse, make up a reason, ask people to help to pull it off and get some pre-RP. People crave opportunities to help out and are just crouched ready to pounce on one idea. People are awesome like that.

It was great to see you again! Also the whole walking back to Gridania and flying to Ul'dah was nice afterwards. Was literally going all day. By that time later on I figured it was a little late for a party so I'm sorry for that. Honestly it would be so convenient if the alliance thing didn't require 8+8(+8). I am so sorry because I didn't realize you were late and without a party! I usually notice people showing up after the fact and then find them a group quietly. With so many people there from other linkshells I kind of assumed someone already grabbed up Jana and was entirely my fault; I should have asked and made sure. :blush::blush::blush: When the event was starting we called out everyone without parties and got them paired up. Ilwe'ran was a big help in getting some new people connected together and if I remember correctly that's partly why Alexander and Amara got acquainted before at the Halone event. I love the big events, but not all of them need to be an amass of text flying by for the entire time so for the two hours of the main thing it was nice to have "rooms" for people to talk in while still all being at the same event. Again I'm sorry I completely misunderstood. welp anything that can be handed out on a massive level for fun (either clothes or even snacks relevant to the patron being celebrated? since all the stones can't be in cold areas! ) either way, i'll be more than willing to help collect mats (this includes shards/crystals o3o ) We'll do that ! You're adorable, thank you ! For the clothing thing, my character could potentially have pulled off going without winter gear because she's had a lot of experience with cold temperatures, but I OOCly feel embarrassed going to an event looking unprepared and in low lvl crappy looking beginner gear. If I had my main on Balmung I would totally donate crystals and other mats as needed. I just thought of something neat- what if someone made a charity drive IC LS to connect crafters and gatherers to make clothing for events like these? It's amazing what a difference a screenshot of a bunch of coats can make. I know I and many others have offered time and again for people to shout out that they don't have anything and go to find said person online and 'hook them up'. The majority of basic RP gear (winter outfit, night outfit, dress outfit, swim outfit) isn't expensive. The coat off market is 10k and with materials crafted even less which most level 50 characters can make easily. I think overall it's just a way how people hosting events needs to have a better approach to offering and getting around the shyness and politeness of others. That would make a big difference. i so am not!!! >///////////< we should still bring this idea up with jancis to get her input for next month..and um...stap spamming her thread.....ooops.... :blush: Good lords you so are adorable. :love: I'll have to think about it because the biggest thing I can think of as a 'hazard' next month is aether sickness from all the crystals and maybe some galoshes for the swamp because we're walking through the thick of Mor Dhonna to one of Jancis' favorite spots. :blush:

Jancis has the special touch! !!!!! *fall over* /o/

So I'm awake! That was a fantastical event! Thank you so much to everyone who attended! Huge thanks to all the wonderful performers who came!! It all fit together so nicely and the themes, we touched on all the different aspects of love to family, each other, romantic, and even divine! ♥ Lilithium - Ojune - Xenedra - Nathan - Ameline - Chuta - Vaughn - Ciel - Arrelaine ♥ To Ilwe'ran and OpenRP friends and FoM friends for doing a pilgrimage from a Fallgourd I have great screenshots of you guys coming up the road to meet up at Camp Dragonhead. To all the guards who kept us safe. There was one quest mob that appeared in the group and everyone jumped it quickly to continue on. I have, more or less, 1811 lines of RP to go through and post the event here on the forum board over the next week or two including many beautiful blessings written on paper to Menphina, much like Arrelaine posted above! I also have many screenshots to go through and fiddle with which I'll make an album of. I tried to get some closeups and group shots! It was amazing and wonderful. Thanks again for all the cooperation and the crowd. It really turned out to be a lovely intimate event and it's neat to do something large scale that isn't completely spammed with text for the majority of it. I was talking to one person afterwards and they mentioned that they paid so much attention to their partychat RP they'd look up and hear music, see people clapping, and it just became a nice balance for them so thank you all again. One screen of many to come! [align=center][/align]