Samhain Ball Redux - Second Star to the Right

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

Something flits through the skies of the Nexus, bobbing and swooping only to climb again, an ecstatic aerial dance. At last, mirth of the moment giving way to some other whim, the flying figure drifts groundward, turning and drifting like a falling leaf until his feet, clad in pointed-toed green suede moccasins alight. Forest green tights hug lean legs all the way up to a bright green tunic, belted with rich brown leather and a bright brass buckle. On his left hip hang a set of pan pipes; on his right, a black-handled knife. An impish grin curls his lips, his eyes sparkle with the promise of mischief, and a pert green cap sits atop his head, crowned by a lone red feather. Could this be the black-suited GQ cover model who makes himself ubiquitous in the better-traveled spaces of the Nexus? Could it be Schön?

It is. "People of the Nexus, friends, in the world from which I hail we stand on the cusp of a special day, a harvest-fest when the walls between worlds grow thin, when masks and costumes are worn to frighten away wicked spirits--or to invite them in on more congenial terms. Today we bid Summer adieu, and raise fire and song to meet the long night! Join me, for an evening to last a lifetime, and a farewell to a season well-loved." His hand rises, pointing to where two bright beacons blaze in the churn of the Nexus' heavens. "Second star to the right, and we'll keep on 'til morning!" Crowing with laughter, he soars for that distant point like an arrow, leaving a trail of sparkling, glittering motes of light for anyone interested to follow.

Perched on the border between the parklands and the residential district, the night sky is like a pillow of iridescent black velvet, on which have been scattered an embarrassment of diamonds. Like an enormous pumpkin, a harvest moon presides over the shimmering vista, orange and plump. The air is cool and crisp, punctuated by the crackling hiss of dry leaves in motion every time a breeze picks up.

At the center of it all sits a stately house of Gothic style, ivy-clad and waiting. A square tower stands vigil over the entryway, tall windows overlooking the flagstone drive looping around a fountain full of water as blue and bright as a tropical sea. In the fountain stands an island, and if one peers closely enough, one might imagine they see figures moving about--on the deck of the tiny ship anchored in a cove, or swimming and splashing in a lagoon, or even creeping through the wooded interior. Of the house, the windows of the wings seem dark, perhaps waiting, but the line of the roof is limned with some glow from beyond, and the faint throb of distant music promises that the evening holds more than surfaces. The door stands open, a silent invitation to every brave soul who passes by.

((Happy Halloween! Enjoy the festivities, threadhopping is encouraged, tag back whenever you have time, and don't worry about missing out--we'll still be here when you get back.)) YouTube Playlist Visualosity Entrance Ballroom Banquet Bonfire Dark Corners

Comments

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

The Nexus is a good place for people like Brienne. The would-be predators have a harder time gaining leverage on the pure-hearted here. Don't think about why Schön has made the art of the deal his profession.

As the realization sinks in for her, the thin man's grin turns a trifle impish and he nods. "Some good, some otherwise. You are quite safe in this place, of course. My guests need fear no wicked thing this night."

[oathstokeep]

Ever since she arrived again and again, despite any bout of homesickness, this place has proven to be a wonderful place for her. The safety, the company, the chance to grow comfortable with herself. And to be exposed to all manner of characters without the immediate threat of danger. Any kind of mischief is thankfully not fatal. Because of this friendship with goddesses and magic-men are so easy.

She still feels like room has grown more crowded with the prospect of additional souls among them. "Thank you for that." For any protection. Brienne did see a shadow slay a king once, okay? "Do the spirits have any purpose or do they just seek to visit?"

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

It's easy to be daring above a safety net. It makes good practice for when the net is gone.

"It is my pleasure as a host," he assures her. As to the question of the spirits, "some wish to see their living loved ones, to bring them advice, or tasks, or the knowledge that they are at peace. Some have unfinished business in the world, and would see it done ere they rest. Some long to taste again the passions they knew in life. They are as varied in their purpose as any group of people you might know."

[oathstokeep]

And practice, practice, practice she shall!

Brienne can feel her face grow cold as she listens and wonders. So many agendas. So many lives lost. Who would come to her, if anyone this day? Hopefully a friend. Or a message of good will. One can never ever be too sure. And perhaps there may not be a thing at all. She is still full of wonder and belief like a child to some.

"Have you spoken to any of these specters?" On this day or any.

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

"Why, Dame Brienne, had you not guessed?" The thin man grins impishly. "I am one of these specters!"

THE SKELETON WAS INSIDE YOU ALL ALONG!

[oathstokeep]

She's immediately taken aback enough to place a hand on her chest, over her heart which is very much beating. Her brow narrows as if some more concentrated gaze could pierce through all the trappings of magic and deception.

It's just not so.

"...You are? You? But--you are alive are you not?"

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

Schön chuckles softly, drifting back and up just a little, to give the lady her space while she grapples with the shock. He spreads his arms, tsking softly as he assures her, "dear lady, there are more spirits in the wide world than just the shades of dead humans."

[oathstokeep]

A chuckle and the way he seems to build himself up immediately takes Brienne to a more defensive state of mind. There must be truth to his words, it seems Schön is enjoying the suspense.

"...and so your day is for all manner of them." Her tone is a little less hospitable but still trying for polite. This place is and shall be strange to her it seems.

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

Ah, that little lift puts her on her guard. Schön sinks again, touching feet to floor--let the lady have the comfort of altitude.

"My folk have long been fond of humans," he soothes, "and they in turn have called us fair. Something, I think, has given a poor representation of all things magical, and I hope you shall allow me to make a countering case?" He extends a hand, open, palm-up, empty, an entreaty for peace.

[oathstokeep]

Defensive, yes. Being without a sword and knowing that this is not the place at all changes things. And truly, Schön has not threatened her life. Still she sees there are so many things she had not considered before.

"I listen, Ser Schön." Brienne clears her throat and settles her shoulders. He did say she has nothing to fear. Why would he he lie after all.

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

A trickster could have many reasons to lie, her judgment must be her own on such matters. "Thank you. Would you care to join me for a dance? I seek only my guests' pleasure and mirth this night, and I would especially like to amend any ill feeling I have inflicted upon you." That hand of his is still open, still offered.

[oathstokeep]

Therein lies an issue with Brienne's perception. She doesn't see the elegant man as a trickster the same way she didn't see a goddess as a mischief maker. Granted the latter has given her an amazing turn of events.

"A dance would be nice, yes." She extends her hand to take his. And low and behold, no problems there.

[u_can_have_it_4_a_song]

Well, in fairness, Schön doesn't consider himself a trickster, either, but it's probably the most polite euphemism for "businessman" around.

"Very gracious of you," he replies, escorting her to the dance floor. "Thank you."