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

character plot ahoy

[maze_ofthorns]

After spending some time outside by the bonfire, Kendra heads inside, and follows the music until she reaches the ballroom. The light seems to dance against the autumn leaves of her costume.

For a moment, Kendra gets lost, just listening to the music. When she opens her eyes again, she spots someone familiar across the ballroom. Someone who she has a complicated history with.

With gliding footsteps, Kendra moves across the dance floor until she has reached him -- Hunter. Even though she is not wearing her heels, and there is no sound of her approach, Hunter still seems to sense her presence, and he turns to face her.

Kendra offers him her hand. And he nods, taking her to the dance floor for a song.

[Feel free to approach Kendra or Hunter. Responses come from the same writer -- but different accounts.]

So this is going down like the Titanic, huh?

[brave_heart_verity]

One of the perks of being an official pixie dust distributor is that she has the best view. She doesn't know who the woman is, but she's been keeping half an eye on Hunter all night, watching for signs of his needing rescue or a quick escape. So this dance doesn't go unnoticed.

Hunter's her main focus, so he's the one who might feel her eyes on him. Not judging, just waiting to see where this is going and what he needs. It's what she does.

don't let go Jack

[maze_ofthorns]

Kendra and Hunter dance without saying anything, just enjoying the music. During the dance, Hunter is not the only one who feels eyes watching them. So after the dance, Kendra gently pulls him to the side, where she can speak to him. They are still within sight of Verity, since Kendra didn't want anyone to think Hunter was in trouble.

"It is nice, seeing you embrace your confidence again." Kendra notes softly.

"I didn't expect to see you here, Kendra."

"It is Samhain. It is a magical night. The night where I am most connected with my past, my present and my future."

"I do remember the last time you embraced your magic, Kendra."

"Do not worry. I can not cast anything tonight. Not anymore. The connection I once had, has past to another."

"What does that mean?" Hunter asks her. Kendra reaches out and touches his arm gently. "It has past to another."

[losthunter]

Hunter glances down to where Kendra is touching him. He can feel something tingling up his skin. He feels a slight chill, but it doesn't feel dangerous to him or his well-being.

"I see Hyperborea in you, Hunter. It still lives in you."

"Kendra... you look paler than normal."

"It is Samhain. Fall has come. The sun is setting." Kendra plays with one of the leaves of her costume. "It is time to pass on who I was and who I am."

[losthunter]

"Does this mean you are going to actually tell me about yourself, and why you entered my life?" Hunter asked Kendra softly. Teasing her slightly.

She just smiled. "My tale will be told, but not by my lips."

"You won't see me as often, anymore Hunter. The time has passed, and I must go. I wish I could help you." Kendra glances around the room. "But you have wonderful friends and muses. They will be there."

"Midnight comes for all. Even me." Kendra leans up to kiss him softly on the cheek, before turning and leaving from the room.