Prepare for the #LodanRespawn2024 Existing characters may choose to be displace from/have memories of different timelines, thereby allowing returning members the option to retcon their whole character. These changes are the result of the "Unnatural Fog" plot device that is running between now and the Respawn. The plot is simple: no matter where your character is, that place is shrouded in a thick fog that suspends time, but not thoughts or memories, so even if they're repeating the same day over and over again, they continue to remember, so each time feels like a new day. For those retconning OCs; this is where new versions of themselves have the opportunity to replace the old versions. Official lore and tree updates will be announced asap
“EXTRA EXTRA! Read all about it! Sveden driven off with their tails between their legs after a failed invasion attempt!” shouted the local paperboy.
The news of the major blow to Sveden traveled fast: in their arrogance for world domination, Sveden attempted to attack and subsequently subjugate the country of Básil. In doing so, not only did they grievously miscalculate how the tropical environment would affect their machines, but also how crafty the Básilians could use this to their advantage. Furthermore, thanks to the aid of allies in Ca’ Allah, Lodan was able to lead a pincer formation against Sveden, as well as drive out the remaining Svedens that had invaded Lodan. While it could be a victory in every sense of the word, there were many losses, and there was no telling if or when Sveden would come back.
But there were many gains as well: with war comes innovation. While the dignitaries and armies of Lodan and its allies make preparations to negotiate or continue this war, the city celebrates this reprieve by throwing an Inventor’s Fair, hosted by the engineer and merchant’s guild, Mingo’s Merchanics. Inventors have been called to show off their latest and greatest inventions, brought to light now that they were not covered by the shadow of war. Plus, there’s word that there will be prizes for the most innovative devices, as judged by the three greatest engineers of the guild.
So come one and come all! All are welcome to gaze upon technological marvels at the Inventor’s Fair!
(OOC: That’s right, as of this moment, we are currently not at war with Sveden. Furthermore, we will be making an announcement on changes to how we will approach technology in the future. For now, enjoy the fair~)
For once, Amon was genuinely excited: with Sveden gone, they could go about doing as they pleased without fear of spies and/or death lurking around the corner (well...more than usual at least).
And what better way to celebrate this freedom than to throw a festival?
Admittedly, Amon had been wanting to do this for a long time; ever since the world fair, he had wanted to throw an equally grand spectacle showcasing all of the ingenuity that the members of Mingo Merchanics had to offer. Though there was a level of apprehension, due to the aforementioned death and espionage. With that now gone, Amon, along with inventors both in and out of the guild worked tirelessly to present an event that would 1) give the economy a bit of a boost and 2) let loose the innovations once held back by the fear of war.
One exhausting month of preparation (and sleep deprivation) later, the day had finally arrived.
Still, one last thing that needed to be accomplished: judging.
Yet again, a two-fold purpose: 1) Give the inventors an incentive to show off and do their best, and 2) admittedly an excuse to ensure that he did not miss out on a single invention.
Besides, he had the perfect candidates for his assistants.
"All ready to go?" Amon asked, turning to Wern and Sienna Black. Not only were they capable engineers who could appreciate innovation at a similar level as himself, they...well...let's face it: they were in dire need in learning how to deal with crowds of people at this point.
He already had enough to worry about as it was, but regardless of what may come, Amon couldn't help but feel like this was going to be a good day.
"I will destroy you in the most beautiful way possible! And when I leave, you will finally understand why storms are named after people!" - Taryn, Nerf This
Death was not something Wern considered to be right around the corner. Death was more like right by his side tied to a rope which was tied to a child. The child was Polinya. Death was Goya. “To feel the wind on my sphere! Ah, what glorious days!” “Silly Goya, you can’t feel!” Polinya giggled as the loud ball screamed “the nerve!” Goya had changed quite a bit from their original golden orb. They still had some golden pieces, just, well, many had been replaced with a paper like substance. This lightened the load a bit, enabling the sphere to float between a mixture of steam and a little propeller attached to its head. Though, it wasn’t the best mechanism, as either the orb would continue flying endlessly to the sky, or the opposite. Luckily, Wern didn’t have high ceilings. Sadly, the sky had a very high ceiling— thus the rope was needed. Plus, a flying (and rather loud) clockwork sphere proved to be a very resourceful beacon for an equally loud ander child if she were to wander off (as she normally did). A child who, at the present moment, was decked head to toe in order to, well, protect the tech around them. Her outfit wasn’t that different from her usual— headscarf and all. The only addition were a pari of working gloves, far too big for her size. “They make me look like Werni!” She would say. Still, though, Wern had made sure to give Polinya a “please don’t touch anything” speech before they went out, because even with the gloves, they could never be too careful. But, really, who knew how long careful would last? Probably not long, since the girl was already looking around, gaping at items all around them. Wern too, couldn’t help but glance around. It was nice to see people’s wares outside of the warehouse, and to see people of all ages show off their skills. He was a little sad he couldn’t share his own items, but well, he hadn’t produced much as of late. Not items that he was able to keep, at least. Or exhibit. Probably for the better, if he really thought about it. Sighing, Wern scratched his head. It was nice that Sveden was gone, but it hadn’t really changed much in regards to him. The economy got better. People were buying more with the news (in celebration) and things were in an uphill swing. Also, there was less death now, which, overall, was better. He still wasn’t getting enough sleep, proved even more so with this past month’s preparation. He tried to keep up with Amon’s place, but well, Wern had a family to take care of. Amon had…. His bots? Wern tried not to think, or delve, too deeply in Amon’s affairs. All he knew was that there was a new woman to the guild— one that, although they had met briefly, Wern really never got to intermingle with. Maybe today, they would finally get to know each other— time permitting. “Y-yes. Sorry again for bringing P-polinya. She really wanted to come— a-and Alisa is at work.” Normally, if it was really pressing, she would go to Cadenc’s hosue, but, well, Cadence was having her own booth. With her own wares. Wares that Wern really didn’t want Polinya near. Not without his supervision. The greenhouse was okay. Polinya was not allowed in the backroom, but well, a festival was a whole other story. “Mama works hard and Poli wanted to play with Uncle Ama! Uncle Ama ,Uncle Ama, did you fight any bad guys today?” Polinya hummed as Wern blushed, scratching his head as he looked away. “Poli— not nowwww.”
What is important to me is the experience of making. I leave all my work outside and often return to watch it decay.- Andy Goldsworthy
Post by Edelweiss Fjäril on Jul 14, 2017 23:40:59 GMT
Edelweiss always loved festivals, of any kind. They all seemed to come with a collective mood where everyone was cheerful and happy, as if it was ok to forget any worries and life troubles for the day and have fun, and only bother with anything else later. This one did too, although, the redhead had to admit, it gave her more mixed feelings than the rest.
She wasn't responsible for anything from organization to setup nor judging this time, which was a relief as things around looked rather hectic, and she had plenty of free time to wander around and browse the varied inventions displayed. The only mental note she kept, in the back of her mind yet ever-present, was to keep an eye for if Sienna needs company or being escorted somewhere at some point, what with happened last time she was in a crowd this size (and Amon might be the one keeping an eye on her now, but just in case... for example he wouldn't be able to check on her during bathroom breaks and such). Other than hypothetically babysitting their unnoficial little sister though, the day would be comprised of just her... and tech. Oh the tech... Technology had always fascinated her since little, although being an ander made it not reciprocable. All look, no touch. The fact she was no longer a child but a fully grown adult didn't change it. And although there were exceptions here and there that she could spot and go check, the vast majority of the items showcased around were technological gadgets. Which, yes, is what gave her mixed feelings and meant that, yes, she will be walking around and pouting like a 5 years old at all the things she can't even touch and much less use.
"All power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men." - John Dalberg-Acton
While Sienna had been battling her own demons Lodan had soundly dealt with its own.
The city was at peace. At least for now and that small fact did help her recovery somewhat. With the city no longer at war they could deal with internal things instead, like crime. Yes she was happy about that bit.
She'd been doing much better lately though her voice still shook some when called upon with no warning and she got nervous pretty easily under stress or when a guy she didn't know so much as looked at her funny. Thankfully Amon and Edel had been guardian angels for her and nothing terrible lasted long. She'd even been managing to smile at times even fi it carried an air of sadness it was still an accomplishment for her.
She'd been enjoying Mingo's company as well as the dusty, oily metalworking she'd not been able to do for over two years. The feeling of molding, making and bringing new life to something tossed away gave her a sense of peace nothing else had been able to since she'd escaped. She'd recently finished her old scooter project and had even brought it along so she could show she still had her skill set in case anyone doubted her. That pride of hers was still well intact.
The inventors fair was a wonderful idea, she'd have been really excited about it had she not been through such trauma but even that didn't totally sour her elation. If she could get past the people aspect she'd be able to enjoy the mechanical ventures. She was deeply grateful Amon requested she help judge. It would be her first time in a place with so many people since she'd been rescued.
As she looked into the area her eyes glossed over things catching pieces as they became visible, craning her neck around to see more of some that caught her attention. Secured in her arms was a cute flamingo plush, a gift from Amon she cherished and was seen almost as often as the inspiration for it. Who unsurprisinglystood beside her, his beak clacking at anyone who dared get close and a little perturbed at the annoying clockwork doll that was with them. If it got too close to his pet he planned on taking it out. His feathers fluffed up in warning but the bird made no moves to attack. He also wasn't totally trusting the metal ball either. Wern himself was a stranger as well and Mingo was just all riled up and ready to take out eyes if he needed to.
To her credit Sienna tried to keep her agitated friend calm as she stroked his neck, lessening some of his ire but one wrong move would bring it right back up. "I'm ready." She replied, sounding mostly chipper but a little hesitant.
Post by Caitlin Cockfoster on Jul 18, 2017 1:29:47 GMT
Like Cait would miss this. Despite being a full-blooded Ander, she NEEDED to enjoy the inventors fair. She needed it like she needed a new horizon to gaze upon. All this Sveden Siege gave her cabin fever, and her recent attempts to rouse her brethren had fallen slight of the goal. Very few of her hens had awoken.
So here she was, perusing the new and improved, the radically different, and the unimaginably possible (so they claimed). She smiled and clapped and ooh and aww'd with the crowd as they processed to each new booth or stage. Hopefully she'd see some of her guild here, or even a few old friends.
Caitlin smiled politely and declined with feminine reserve any time someone offered her ladyship a chance to touch their priceless inventions. Today she was the baroness.
She sat her glass down next to the decanter and leaned back. This was nice... like falling into a vat of marshmallow fluff. Calm, muffled, the rest of the world blocked out by the closed door to his cabin, and here they were safe inside. Safe from reality, safe from their own complicated lives. Safe from duty. Safe from context. Just. Safe. --Caitlin
Post by Mulven Renehan on Jul 18, 2017 19:07:58 GMT
Mulven had put some real sweat-equity into this, thought he hadn't know it would come in handy so soon.
He dragged the wagon cart by the handle, leaning his weight into each step forward to pull the heavy load back behind the main stage. He didn't have a booth, not for his invention, but he still planned on stealing the show. The cart was packed with crates and the crates were packed with customized explosives. His forte.
All the mortar fire and border attacks had become background noise to most of the inhabitants over time, and the noise from his experiments had blended in flawlessly as he fought to pass the time. Well, not "fought" persay, he had initially started by shooting reject explosives into the borderland forest as a way of disposing of them while simultaneously taking his chances of actually striking back against the enemy. But after a while, his little mechanical mind began turning the gears, and before long he was up to his elbows in new ideas.
There were a few misfires in the beginning.... he'd even blackened one of his ears from a minor accident that had come a little too close to the face for comfort. Thank Goodness for goggles. But his ear....
He shook off the thought as he reached his end goal and began unpacking what was sure to be a fine display once the sun set in the sky.
At last! Another fair! If there was one thing this city really needed, it was a distraction. Hell, if there was one thing Clairee needed, it was a distraction. She had been on the streets of the Merchant district since dawn, watching as all the vendors set up their stations and slowly the patrons filtered in. She felt like a stalker, watching for hours on end, but who wasn't on a day like this? Even her Pa and at least most of her brothers would be in town for the event. There was no reason for Clairee to pass up such a prestigious occurrance. Even if she couldn't partake of the tech herself.
"Scuse me," sprung to her lips as she accidentally backed into someone, too busy oogling a new arrival's veiled contraption to watch where she was going.
Post by Edelweiss Fjäril on Jul 19, 2017 5:20:23 GMT
Edelweiss was just walking around and looking at things, without any specific direction in mind. She had thought she spotted a friend's face through the crowd and turned to check too, but those plans got derailed some as someone bumped into her.
"It's fine---" She replied quickly, but ended cutting herself short on it. Wait a minute, this girl looked familiar too, but very vaguely. Edelweiss could remember her face, but not much else, and she for sure wasn't in CAEsAL - nor in Mingos as far as the redhead knew of (though admitedly she didn't really know who all the members of other guilds are). From where on earth did she knew her? Some other festival?... hm, no, that didn't ring any bells. Common acquaintance?... Oh! That was it!
"...You're Lasair's friend, right? I think we met before, but can't recall your name, sorry."
"All power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men." - John Dalberg-Acton
"...It's alright..." Amon said with a slight sigh at Wern's apology. "And not today Poli...though if someone does try to scare Sienna..."
"Ah! Speaking of," he exclaimed. "I don't think either of you met yet. Sienna, this is Wern, my second-in-command. Wern, this is Sienna, former guild leader and the founder of Mingo's Merchanics," he said, gesturing to each respective party member as he made the introductions, smiling a little at seeing Sienna holding the Mini-Mingo plush.
"Now then...we have quite the amount of ground to cover, so you two may want to get acquainted with each other along the way," he said glancing around, admittedly a little impatient and eager to see all of the tech. "So, if either of you don't mind: Sienna, when you are ready, would you do us the honors of pointing out who to visit first?"
"I will destroy you in the most beautiful way possible! And when I leave, you will finally understand why storms are named after people!" - Taryn, Nerf This
Sienna's gold eyes flicked to the other person with them. This was the source of the unnerving robots. She couldn't say she was fond of them by any means. Mingo didn't seem pleased either, clacking his beak softly at her side as he continued to play the role of buffer between her and the stranger. Amon had earned the right be in her presence, this person hadn't. Despite that though the woman did raise a hand to wave politely at him. She couldn't say she was comfortable speaking with him but managed a small smile. he didn't look very happy... or very nice really. And his machines were just... not her idea of company. She'd not be able to speak over them to him so she just decided not to and instead did as Amon asked.
Looking around there were a lot of nice things. Some things she noticed had flamingos interwoven into the designs. Very curious, she could only assume her pet's mascot likeness had never lost it's popularity. They drew her eye easily. particularly one that had some neat moving flamingos. "That one." She said with a laugh, pointing at it before scooting over that way, her bird in tow. She was a lot braver now, still a little shy and apprehensive but she wasn't afraid to approach things today, not with Amon and Mingo keeping an eye on he. And Mini-Mingo too. The mechanic was a bit old for stuffed animals but she had been through a terrible ordeal and the small gift meant a great deal to her. She wasn't letting ti go any time soon.
"I... yes..." She tilted her head slightly to appraise the redhead. "I'm sorry I don't remember your name. Mine's Clairee, by the way, I am a friend of Lasairs." Friend, cohort, partner in crime... the list went on but she'd forgo the rest of it. Better to keep secrets secret. She smiled after mentioning her name and popped out a hand for a shake. "Speaking of, have you seen him lately?" She asked, referring to the afore mentioned Guild Leader Lasair Landevier Lupen
Post by Edelweiss Fjäril on Jul 30, 2017 4:42:48 GMT
Edelweiss couldn't help but chuckle at that response. It was fair, afterall since the rdhead herself couldn't recall Clairee's name before it wouldn't be fair to expect Clairee would remember hers either. "That's alright. And I'm Edel, nice to meet you again."
Then at the question of if she'd seen Lasair lately, she had to take a moment to ponder how to more accurately describe it best. "In person, no, it's been about... a month and half since I last met him, I think. We do communicate remotely on a frequent basis for research purposes though, so there's that. Can I assume he's been burrowed in his room all the time like a recluse bunny again?" It sounded like something Lasair would do, alright, mainly if he found some new study topic on magic that interested him. "Anyway, since we're both here... how about looking around together? This festival should be more fun to be in with friendly company."
People being perturbed at Goya was nothing new. It was the problem and burden that Wern had to face, sadly. “H-how do you do, miss Sienna. I-I’ve heard much about you a-and I look forward to seeing your wares. T-the scooter you have is quite nice—” He would have continued, except the woman ran off to look at a booth. Understandable, given their jobs (and Amon’s instruction) but well… it seemed like she didn’t like him. Frowning a bit, he curled up inwardly, glancing at Amon. “A-are you sure it’s okay for me to be here? I-I’m sure there is someone m-more qualified.” Though, maybe there were people more qualified. The problem was that maybe Wern was the only one available. Still, he felt oddly out of place. A third cog in the midst, as Amon seemed well, rather protective of the old guild leader to an almost unsettling level. T-though, it wasn’t Wern’s place to meddle in his affairs. Especially after talking to Edelweiss and her asking him not to. Still…. He wished that someone else was here with him— someone that liked him and perhaps didn’t terrify him. Polinya fit both of those things, but well…
Uncle Ama’s answer was strange. Who was Sienna? The woman next to her? She had a pet bird too. It was pink. Polinya liked pink. “Pretty Lady, pretty lady! You have two birds. Werni has a bird too. Her name is Chakia. What’s your bird’s name? Why is it pink? Can I be pink too?” Polinya asked, running up to the girl now at the booth. There were more birds. A lot of birds. A toy in the girls hands and the bird and birds on things and Poli liked birds. “Is it soft? Chaka is soft.”
What is important to me is the experience of making. I leave all my work outside and often return to watch it decay.- Andy Goldsworthy
Post by Clairee Donya on Jul 30, 2017 20:56:22 GMT
Clairee tried not to look as concerned as she felt, but Edel's answer about Las really soothed her worries. She was right after all, that was something he would do. She smiled and the uncertainty washed off her face. "Yes you're probably right, and I would like that, thank you! What would you like to see first?" She looked around. It was hard to seclude any one thing at once to be honest, so she amended her questions. "Which direction would you like to look in, first?" She asked with an even brighter smile, a little mirth stuck in her eyes.
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