elevator_attendant: (-thoughtful-)
Theodore ([personal profile] elevator_attendant) wrote in [community profile] nexus_sages2015-10-21 05:43 pm

Paying tribute to the ages

[In a very populated corner of the forum area, an intricate Japanese stall has been set up, containing small treats, along with a great deal of masks. Behind the stand is a small Mikoshi shrine, the entrance concealed by a blue fabric, inlaid with gold trimmings. Standing in front of these Japanese structures is a man, well-dressed in a blue suit and tie. His wardrobe clashes with the scenery, as he looks like someone who stepped out of an american hotel, circa 1930’s.

He speaks up in a very calm voice, but loud enough for all to hear.]

“Jidai Matsuri. For those not versed in Japanese culture, the festival, originating from Kyoto, is a time to celebrate the ages. Many other festivals are held during October, but this seems to be the one my master has fondness for.”

[A pause, while Theodore gestures to the Japanese stall behind him.]

“In honor of Japanese cultures, I’ve decided to bring something not often seen here to the Nexus. To excite or enlighten those who wish to learn more about the world and themselves.”

[He steps behind the mask stand, gesturing to the different character faces that line the stand walls. It’s very hard to count how many masks are there, but each one seems different then the next.]

“Masks are a common part of Japanese summer festivals, but my master finds them to be fascinating all-year round and feels that many other people can appreciate the beauty in such works of art. Thus, I have been tasked with sharing these wonderful gifts to you, the travelers of the Nexus. Donations are appreciated, but not necessary.”

[He plucks a mask off the wall, one that resembles Hello Kitty. No, he will not be putting it on, rather showing it off to any nearby person instead.]

“Feel free to find one that matches your personality. I can assure you that you will not walk away empty handed. If you require assistance, I will be here to answer any questions you may have.”

((The masks are enchanted (but not in a terrible lol way), and if your character chooses one, they will be able to recall a memory from their past (good/bad/sad/angry, you name it) or perhaps a very vague vision of the future. If you would not like your character to experience this, feel free to leave a note, and Theo will present your character with something normal. Enjoy!))
heirtothearcane: (Distant smiles)

[personal profile] heirtothearcane 2015-10-23 11:58 am (UTC)(link)
"Oh," he laughs shyly and gives the man a soft smile. "I have a thousand questions." He lets his gaze wander over the masks, trying to pick out a few to remember. "My family uses masks, but not like this..."

"Is there a reason they're more common for summer festivals? And can I ask what that is?" The last question asked with an open palmed gesture to the shrine. "It's beautiful."
heirtothearcane: (All smiles)

[personal profile] heirtothearcane 2015-10-24 03:59 pm (UTC)(link)
Viatorus beams at Theo briefly and then looks back to the colourful stand. "We have sacred masks. For rituals and celebrations. So that someone might host a god or a very important ancestor. Wearing one is a great honour and requires a bit of preparation, usually a vigil."

"They had similar things in other cultures..." He stops to take in the shrine and all its intricate detail. "I've never seen one so spectacular though... How do you pay them tribute? The lords and emperors. Do you... Do you honour others who were important to history during Jidai Matsuri? Inventors, healers, artists?"
heirtothearcane: (Watching)

[personal profile] heirtothearcane 2015-10-24 04:35 pm (UTC)(link)
That wasn't a particular concern for Viatorus, perhaps because he expects, or hopes, he could spot something that important before he went about touching it. Still. "That's good to know, thank you."

He also hasn't quite gotten around to picking up any of the masks yet, so it's safe to assume that he won't be rude enough to burst into a sacred shrine uninvited. Respect is a big thing in his family, even if it is shown in different ways.

The answers get a few slow nods of understanding and then he tilts his head at the stranger. "What about you? Do you have a favourite?"
heirtothearcane: (Watching)

[personal profile] heirtothearcane 2015-10-24 05:04 pm (UTC)(link)
A nod. "Thank you."

"Oh. Uh." And here Viatorus has to pause. Picking one question over another isn't something he does if he can help it. So a thousand questions it is. "I-I had meant your favourite mask, but your favourite lord, too. Or your favourite way to pay tribute."
heirtothearcane: (All smiles)

[personal profile] heirtothearcane 2015-10-26 01:57 pm (UTC)(link)
The mask sets Viatorus beaming and he leans closer to give it a close examination. "It's beautiful! You should wear it. It matches your suit, and the shrine too."
heirtothearcane: (Viatorus Atlas Durant)

[personal profile] heirtothearcane 2015-10-26 06:14 pm (UTC)(link)
The smile dims when Theodore sets the mask on the wall again. He thinks the other man would look quite handsome in the mask, but he finds himself unable to say that.

"I'm Viatorus Atlas Durant. It's nice to meet you, Theodore."