All:
The air vibrates with the thumping of drums, a sign of the festivities taking place in the city square. It has been rumored that the celebratory drum beats are so loud that they can be heard as far as the Underworld below, creating a loathing of this day for the Drow.

It is a warm, sunny afternoon and the celebrations are in full swing. A parade makes its way down the streets of the city with dancers, performers, and exotic tamed beasts in tow. Flower petals and bright decorations can be found in every crevasse of the city that is celebrating the first day of spring. Many of the beautiful dancers that toss flowers also carry special goodies in their baskets, handing out various trinkets to bystanders.

People bustle in and out of the shops that are open for business on this profitable day, each showing their appreciation for spring in different ways. It is hard to pass through the square without being invited for a dance, offered a treat, or bumping into giddy children with handfuls of little treasures.

OOC to All:
Just like last year, I don't want any fighting going on in this topic. As the topic's description says, there are lots of fun things waiting to be given out by the DM to people that participate in this RP. Happy Easter! :w00t:

P.S. You do not need to wait for the DM to post if you want to post again, this is not like the war. Post on!

Abysmal.

That was the single thought floating through the vampire lord Horváth's mind as he looked about the street of Lomedor that was currently allowing the parade to pass through it. Children danced and pranced their way around the parade like wasps around jam, whilst merchants and traders seized the opportunity to flog their wares and turn a dishonest profit by exploiting the alleged good will that ran abound during this; the Spring Festival. Not all found the festival to be as exciting a prospect as most, and Horváth was among that number, yet with his status as a noble he had been forced to make an appearance, at least for a short while, in order to maintain his public profile. As a result of his distaste of the event, the disguised vampire had arranged for his specially designed carriage - built to ensure that no sunlight reached him in the backseat - to be polished and cleaned and ready to parade himself around in the public eye for the day. Thus far, he and his entourage had been out and about for an hour or so, and yet Horváth had still to emerge from the carriage.

"Do you not enjoy the festival, Lord Horváth?"

The voice belonged to the only other occupant of the carriage, who was sat opposite Horváth and with her back to the direction they were going in; Lady Friday. She was young, far too young for the old man she accompanied, but her father was losing money fast whilst Horváth seemed to gain it every day. Though he bore no interest in human women, Horváth had made a point of seeming to court with the good Lady, at least during public appearances, in order to maintain his reputation amongst the ruling classes. Rumours were abound, of course, that Horváth planned to marry Lady Friday, but they were just that; rumours. Horváth would be dead before he re-married, especially to a human. It was sick to think of. To mix his superior blood with such a weak species was nothing short of an abomination. Vampires mated with vampires, it was as simple as that. Horváth rarely thought this consciously, of course, as it almost guaranteed a flashback to darker times, times before his turning, when he was both husband and father. Black memories, and ones the vampire lord did not care for. He blinked and looked at Lady Friday blankly.

"I said do you not enjoy the festival, Lord Horváth?" she repeated.

"What do you mean?" he snapped back quickly, his eyes narrowing.

"Well, I mean no disrespect," The good Lady seemed to have picked up on his irritance, "But we have not even set foot outside of the carriage yet."

"I fail to see your point, Lady Friday." Horváth replied, his gazing leaving her and focusing on a piece of the carriage door that had come loose; he would have to get someone to see to that.

"Gwendolen, please," she said, reaching for the door that he was staring at, "Might we at least open the door curtains and see the parade?"

"No!" Horváth cried out suddenly, his alarm belaying his sense of caution as he smacked her hand away from the curtain roughly, "The curtains stay shut until I say otherwise."

"But, Lord Horvá--"

"I appreciate silence, Lady Friday, Gwendolen, so please show me your appreciation. We will leave this carriage when I feel it is appropriate to do so, and not a moment sooner." His eye twitched as he spoke.

"Yes, Lord Horváth." Lady Friday replied timidly, humbled, looking down into her lap. Horváth caught sight of a tear falling from her face to land on her dress. He said nothing.



After another half hour, Horváth called for the carriage to come to a halt. The door was soon opened, but no light came through for it was suddenly blocked out by a large parasol being placed in the way. One of Horváth's servants, Tempel, held the parasol with one hand whilst offering the other to Lady Friday, who took it shyly and was led out of the carriage. Horváth followed, and Tempel made sure the parasol remained over the lord at all times; the public explanation for this quirk was that Horváth suffered from an extreme sensitivity to the sunlight. When the explanation had first circulated the public town-criers, there had been much scepticism, and many began to make the correct accusation that he was really a vampire; fortunately this had been rectified by Horváth arranging for the 'news' to 'slip out' that there had been a vampire in Horváth's bloodline several generations back; he in turn then orchestrated a huge sympathy campaign in which most of the public were convinced that he was simple an old man who was the victim of vampire cruelty towards his family.

"The parade looks truly fantastic." Lady Friday, having hidden or forgot the effect of Horváth's harsh words in the carriage, said as she gazed down the street.

"Quite." Horváth gave in way of a reply, his right eye twitching as it was prone to.

"There is much dancing to be seen at the Spring Festival," Lady Friday went on, "It has almost become a tradition, don't you agree, my Lord?"

"Dancing is certainly commonplace." The vampire said, his expression turning to one of disapproval as hers turned to glee.

"I do not believe in dishonouring tradition, my Lord," Lady Friday went on, "And yet I doubt I can dance alone. It would make me seem most foolish."

"And yet none would think any differently of you than they do now." Was Horváth's cold reply; he knew she had been told to make as much conversation and interaction as possible, or else surely she would have kept silent in the carriage?

Before the two nobles could speak anymore, they were approached by a small frolicking of children who were bearing baskets of flower-chains; apparently they were being handed out to every passer-by they came across. Though Lady Friday smiled and approached the children as they came towards them, Horváth gave a short upward nod to his nearby guards, who immediately set themselves between them. The children halted and looked up nervously, whilst Lady Friday stared indignantly at the backs of the guards. When the children did nothing but stare, one of the guards gave out a small yell and waved his sword at them, prompting them all to scatter and disperse; disappearing into the crowds of onlookers. The guards then resumed their previous positions around the 'couple', whilst Friday fell back into her own 'place' at Horváth's side, annoyance clear on her expression. Horváth remained silent, reacting only to other upper-class aristocrats who passed them by occasionally, and even then keeping the exchanges to as a few words as possible.

"I should have listened to Lady Somers," Friday suddenly spoke up, and Horváth could tell by her tone she felt much more confident now that they were stood in a public place, watching the parade, "She said you were a heartless man."

"It is not my heart that should concern you, though," Horváth replied, "It's my vaults. My gold."

"Marriage is not solely about money, Lord Horváth." she cut back swiftly, apparently having expected the answer Horváth had given her; something which prompted him to turn his head and look at her, his eye twitching briefly.

"Then what is it you look for in a marriage?" he asked icily, glaring at her, not blinking.

"Love."

The left side of Horváth's mouth twisted into a faint smile for a few seconds before disappearing. He knew Lady Friday was young, but he did not expect her to be naive. Not responding, he turned back to watch the parade. She seemed to take offence at this reaction, as she immediately carried on speaking when he did so.

"Do you not know what love is, Lord Horváth?"

"Do not speak to me of love, Lady Friday." he snapped, "I do not consider it a priority in life, especially not in the holy bond that is marriage. Marriage is about reputation and money! Prestige!"

"And I am not good enough even for those? Your reputation would be harmed by taking my hand? Prestige lost?"

Horváth twitched uncomfortably. He was barely containing his desire to tell this woman the truth; just to frighten her and see how her expression twisted with the news. She spoke of marriage, and it sickened him. She spoke logically, and it offended him. She spoke of love, and it pained him. With a gesture at his guards, Horváth dismissed them to fall back a fair distance; the only remaining person in the immediate vicinity other than Lady Friday was Tempel with the parasol. Almost instantly, and from out of nowhere, the children returned and seized the opportunity to hand chains of flowers to both nobles. Lady Friday accepted her and placed it around her neck whilst Horváth snatched it from the offering child's hands. The children, their job done, disappeared into the crowds again. Horváth cast the flowers away, before looking deep into Lady Friday's eyes,

"You and I will never be wed, Lady Friday." he said coldly, his voice betraying no emotion other than distaste, "Your father is bankrupt, and your brothers are dead. You can offer me nothing but a detestable drain on my finances."

Lady Friday was taken aback by his harsh words, that was clear; it became even more evident when she attempted to slap him around the face, but his reflexes helped Horváth to catch his wrist mid-strike. Her eyes filled with fear and he glared into them, telling her in a soft, but menacing, voice,

"I think it is time you retired, is it not, Lady Friday?"

She did not reply, and so he threw her arm aside, before watching her turn and storm off. Ignoring the curious looks he received, Horváth turned to pay attention to the parade. Children danced and pranced their way around the parade like wasps around jam, whilst merchants and traders seized the opportunity to flog their wares and turn a dishonest profit by exploiting the alleged good will that ran abound during this; the Spring Festival.

Abysmal.

"Yeeeeeeeaaaayyyyyyy!" squealed the orange cat, expelling a strange fusion of words. An orange whirlwind, the little cat was everywhere at once, not doing anything really but still as joyful as the children laughing around her. For all intents and purposes, she was about as mature as a four year old anyways. Face split open by a cheshire cat smile, Hattie finally came skidding to a stop (bumping into those three people had helped sap momentum) and pantingly did a brisk three-sixty. While it was ture that a conventional druid's home lay deep within virgin lands, none could doubt that Hattie was in her element.

She was absolutely giddy among all the laughter and happiness, the glee of others flowing through her from all directions. Though she had not slept in half a day, the druid feline was amazingly vibrant and bursting with happiness. The sugar churning in her belly didn't hinder the hyperness either; after a myriad of bizarre obstacles, she'd finally prevailed in her quest to see the muffin man and her stomach was full of nothing but sweets. Muffins and a party all in one day? This was gonna be the best Easter ever! Considering this was the cat's second Easter, the praise wasn't much, but the enthusiasm with which Hattie muttered these words was hard to refute. But Hattie had to wonder...If this was the Easter celebration, then where was the Easter Bunny? He had to be at his own party, right?

"Miiiiiister Easter Bunny? Where aaaaare you?" she asked into the crowd, as if he would magically spring forth at her call. When this failed to produce results, Hattie took the search into her own hands and was off and running again. Well...To be honost, Hattie didn'tknow what the Easter Bunny looked like. Was he gigantic? Tiny? What color was his fur? Blue? White? Pink? Rainbow? Chartreuse? Was it even a boy? Was it a girl? Did he have a basket thingie? Or was he invisible? Metallic? On fire?...This wasn't getting anywhere. So Hattie decided to ask a helpful passerby!

"'Hi!" she greeted the first person she saw. "Do you know where the Easter Bunny is?"

(Directed at...anyone)

So much to see! So much to do! How could one tiny fairy possibly take in all the sights, all the sounds, all the smells of the Spring Festival? It wasn't possible! It wasn't possible in Aelfdane's mind, anyway, as he zipped through the packed streets of Lomedor, past hundreds - maybe thousands! - of people of every shape, size, and description. His eyes were like saucers and his mouth could have held anthills as his wings fluttered madly, carrying him swiftly to Lomedor Square. There, things were far greater! It was unimaginable! The kind of work that must have gone into making something so fantastic, so phenomenal, so utterly surreal was absolutely staggering at best! There were so many colours! There so very many things to see and do! How could a three-inch-tall fairy take it all in! He could barely contain himself, could barely hold in the excitement now threatening to blow him to smithereens from the inside out as it bubbled up inside him like a potion coming to a fast boil!

Indeed, all of it was quite overwhelming for tiny Aelfdane. His wings could barely keep up with the rest of him as he fluttered about, trying desperately to experience everything. Even the elfs back in Yomeniampa, their mile-high and four-mile-tall tree city in the forest so many days' travel from Lomedor, had nothing even remotely like this! It was incredible! He quickly found, though, that he was a bit saddened by the whole affair. After all, he had no gold. How could he possibly hope to take souvenirs with him if he could not pay for them? He could steal them, certainly, but why would he? The only time he ever stole anything was when he was pulling a prank on someone, and then he always returned what he'd taken.

It wasn't long before Aelfdane's excitement and joy at being able to meet so many new people and being able to experience so many new things began to wane. After almost an hour, he finally fluttered down to sit on a barrel no one was paying any attention to. His knees raised and his arms folded over them, he rested his head and watched the people go by sullenly. He had no gold, so he couldn't get anything for himself. Why did people prize coin so much, anyway? He understood people needed things, but elfs and fairies and pixies just took what they needed from nature and tried to share everything with everyone else when they could. Why couldn't people just be nice and make things for others for free? Regardless of the answer to that question, though, Aelfdane sighed. The simple fact was that he was broke, a fact which only saddened him. He wished Cel were here to play with him.

Oh joyous of days. Today was the day, and Acacia had a lot of work ahead of her. Though normally it was quite dangerous for a fairy such as herself to be out in the open, a large festival, such as the one in Lomedor, was perfect cover. There were lots of people, lots of confusion, and therefore little predators or danger. There was almost an endless amount of things that she could hide under. But abouve all else, there were very few dangers at such a celebration. It seemed that evil factions had more fun and entertaining things to do than crash a party. And that was good. Acacia the flower fairy had stayed up very late the night before, in preparation for the festival. For it was the Spring festival! Her favorite and most important. Springtime was so lovely and wonderful. It was the time which all the beautiful flowers came out to bloom once more, and birds began chirping their tune, and love-- whatever that was-- was in the air. Yes, Acacia was much more lively and happy in the spring, than she was with any other season. And, though she felt humans and all other humanoid creatures unintelligent and moronic, she felt that having a festival for the wonderful season was one of the few things they had done that was a good idea.

Last night, Acacia had been flying around the entire square, placing flowers here and there, arranging pretty paper, and trying to make the Lomedor Square appropriate for the celebration. Sure, she knew quite well that there were other decorators who were hired to make the show attractive-- but she was the only one who could to it right. She obviously specialized in flowers, and had an eye for decoration. But the stupid other decorators! Many times did they place a flower arrangement one place that simply did not go there. Lilacs shouldn't face North! So Acacia was forced to pick up the bouquet and place it elsewhere. Then the lilac-placer would return to see that the flowers were gone. They would scratch their head, sure that they had placed the pale purple flowers there. Shrugging, they would place another bouquet there, when Acacia would quickly steal the flowers away again. As lilacs shouldn't face North.

Even when the decorators had retired to sleep, Acacia continued to stay up late and finish some decorations. Sure, the men and women of Lomedor had tried to make it look decent, but with Acacia's green thumb, she would transform the square into a wonderland of green, purely fit to enjoy the spring. Which was her season. She and plant life were virtually one entity. They talked to her, laughed with her; she felt their feelings and could feel their needs. Here and there she would fly around the square, finding late blooming flowers and causing them to emerge into bursts of delicious colours. Afterwards, she caused the small trees in the yard to shake and adjust themselves to smile with branches. Yes, throughout the night she worked tirelessly in hopes of making the oncoming festival brilliant, so all could enjoy it.

She had worked with such effort, that soon the pixie girl was tired. After she had finished arranging some water lilies in the small pond, the girl found a beautiful pink rose, located off by one of the candy shops. She gracefully lowered herself in the tall standing pretty flower, getting into the bud, which had plenty of room for her. Knowing Acacia's intention, the rose closed itself up, protecting her. Inside the large protective bud, the girl lay down, quickly drifting off to sleep.

She awoke with a start the next morning. Very large, very loud drumbeats the cause of her waking. Her leaf-green eyes shot open, as she quickly jumped up onto her feet. How rude! Who on earth was disturbing her slumber! How would they feel if Acacia went into their house as they slept and banged on pottery, or-- "The spring festival! The thought echoing through her mind quite speedily, eliminating any anger that had previously been present within her mind. Sensing her now awake, the rose flower bloomed slowly, allowing the flower fairy to emerge. Zipping out of the rose, the pixie took to the sky. She hovered over the garden. Looking out, she was blown away. Numerous creatures of all kinds; children, men, women, some elves, a dwarf here and there, and many more were crowded in the streets, walking and singing and dancing. Music was playing. Drums were beating. Beautiful and elaborate costumes were being shown and on display. It was an amazing thing to see.

A very true and genuine smile grew onto Acacia's face. Today, she would do her best to be as friendly as she could. For today was not a day for fighting or arguing. It was to celebrate flowers and spring time and happy things! In a fast, twinkling streak, Acacia zipped off into the sky, prepared to fully enjoy the festival to the best of her abilities.

Teresa, along with some of her girl friends entered the festival. Oh how beautiful it was…There was music, dancers, candy of all sorts, and most of all the joy of spring! She entered with her group of friends and they went to shop to shop, some bought pots and jewelry, while other bought fancy coins and some bought loads of candy.

Teresa herself bought nothing. She had spotted a small fairy sitting by himself. He was resting his head into his hands. He looked sad or bored. She sighed and broke away from the group of girls and agreed to meet them later.

She stopped at a candy store and bought lots of candy, she smiled at the store keepers and took the bag. She made her way to the fairy she saw a while back through the crowd. People continually bumped into her. She didn’t mind after all, she wasn’t in a hurry or anything.

She rounded a corner and saw the fairy resting his head on his knee’s. he looked extremely bored. She bent down to him at eye level and a faint smile appeared on her face. She held the bag up near her face and made a happy face.

“hello I am `Teresa, would you like some candy to start the nice season of spring off?” She said outstretching her hand to set the bag of candy next to the fairy. She hoped that she would lift the spirit of the fairy up so he could have a good day.

After all this festival came around only once a year, why not enjoy it? She thought before she was bumped into from behind. She saw 3 small children running away giggling..

“Children…Always causing trouble” She said with a faint smile

Precisely how long had Kogata been asleep for? It was a complete mystery to her. This was definitely the same city she'd been in yesterday, or at least it seemed like yesterday. but it looked so different. Bright colors and flowers decorated the buildings and people milled about. Okay so the people were no surprise, but everything else was like something out of a fairy story.

Kogata sat up from her pile of tattered clothes and messy hair and rubbed her eyes, staring out of her alleyway as her rather large eyes grew used to the light, shining violet for a few moments before returning to their usual soft blue color. The small elven girl stood up, staring about as though she was missing something.
"Kyte!" She called "Kyte! Where'd you run off to."
Nothing happened for a few moments, but then an orange blur soared over the rooftop above her and settled to flutter in front of her, dropping something into Kogata's hands.

Kogata looked down at the small white bag the fly dragon had dropped, an expression of surprise on her rodent-like face (her nose even twitched while she stared at the bag).
"What's this?" Kogata asked, fully aware that the dragon couldn't speak, but forwarded the question anyway.
The dragon zipped about in front of her, almost like a bee dancing to show oters where it found honey. However Kogata didn't know the first thing about bees so the similarity was lost on her. She opened the bag and noticed small colored sweets sat inside it. Kogata had never seen sweets like this so close before, she'd had her small nose pressed up against windows to look at them, but never had she actually been able to hold them.

"Kyte, did you steal these?" Kogata inquired.
The dragon continued buzzing about and gave nothing that Kogata could see as any kind of answer.
"Fine, I'll let you off today," she sighed "But don't do it again."
She popped one of the sweets in her mouth carelessly and immediately her expression changed. She seemed frozen for a moment with an expression of surprise but then her expression grew warmer as the sugary treat continued to dance on her tongue.
"Haahh, that taste so good!" She exclaimed, popping another one into her mouth.

She wandered out of the alley, chewing happily and staring about her. She always hated the idea of festivals but no matter what she could never seem to avoid them no matter what. Still she always ended up having a good time. She swallowed the first two treats and popped another into her mouth, closing the bag to save the rest for later. Normally she would be in hysterics right about now because of the crowd, but none of them seemed to be looked her way at the moment. Perhaps if she could slip past and fine a quiet corner somewhere...
"Hello, are you lost?"
Kogata started and whirled about, seeing a tall, dark haired woman staring down at her.
"Ah...N-n-no, I'm fine thanks!" She blurted out and immediately turned about again and ran off.

She paused a little way off to catch her breath and recover from the sudden shock.
"That surprised me," she gasped "Why'd she have to sneak up on me like that?"
She stood up straight again and looked about. Now she was lost and couldn't see where she was for the crowds of people.
"Huh? What do I do now?" She asked the air.

Aelfdane's head jerked up in surprise and his arms separated from one another as a girl's head suddenly popped down in front of him, seemingly out of nowhere. The girl was oddly dressed - or perhaps oddly undressed was a better word - especially for such a place as this. Her silvery armour gleamed in the bright sunlight and her pale flesh shone like so much ivory, attracting a number of stares related to nothing save for the obvious beauty of the one now crouching before the astonished young fairy. The girl didn't seem to notice the stares, though, and Aelfdane hardly noticed anything save for the girl's face. How could he notice anything more than that, after all, being only three inches tall and having her face directly before his very tiny body? But he looked at the candy, though, and brightened. It was a very tiny bag of candy, apparently made just for fairies or other tiny creatures. Aelfdane brightened up. This was candy from a stall he'd seen just a few minutes earlier!

"Thanks a lot!" he said with newfound cheer as he opened up the bag, his face glowing with delight.

He dove right in and had a massive grin on his face as he chomped lightly on the delicious confections the girl had given to him as an apparent gift. The girl was nice. He liked her. No one else would have cared, for it seemed that most races were self-absorbed - at least from his short period of experience outside his forest home, of course - but this girl was nice to him. She was also pretty, which made him like her even more. He didn't like ugly people.

"I'm Aelfdane!" he said with a cheerful innocent belied by, if nothing else, the sparkle of friendship in his startlingly blue eyes. "What's your name?"

There was hardly any sound as he munched on the tasty candies, for they were soft candies and very chewy. He had strong jaws for one so little, though, so he didn't have to chew too much. He could thus maintain his usual level of chattiness. He really liked these candies. They seemed to be heavily dosed the flavours of cherries, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, bananas, oranges, apples, and other varied fruits.

Drunkenness and fertility charms, Taiaka thought, are a dangerous combination. But Taiaka wasn’t sure if it was the booze or the dancers that made him sweat; they were both warm and sweet and the blossoms of celebration made them essentially complimentary. He watched the girls bend and sway to the auxiliary rush of steel drums and soft lutes. Their feet were set to the languid throb of buxom percussion, some wore feathers and beads around their ankles, and others were painted in mock hues to mimic the fur of red foxes or curvy tigers. Taiaka watched the slow moan of their hips to the music, their bodies dappled with triangles of playful afternoon light, serpentine and pure like the climb of ivy.

Someone had lit several long sticks of incense that were as fat as a cat’s tail. They placed them in tall glass bottles and let them smoke until the air became thick and musky with the scents of lavender, sandalwood and spicy clove. The veranda was alive with tresses that were diligently decorated with tied bundles of daffodils and pearly calla lilies. Taiaka knew someone had put love and time into the posh cove that now looked like it literally grew from the front of the folksy tea shop. Even the striped awnings had been replaced, made pastel and cool, if only for the festival.

Tired from haggling with barkers and full from trying new, and sometimes frightening local cuisine, he picked the first place without children and fairies to take a break. By the time the parade came marching and tooting around the square, Taiaka was quite drunk.

“You see that over there?” He slurred his words but the black-haired girl that kept bringing him his mead didn’t seem to mind. Her eyes following to where the dark skinned man was pointing and she nodded weakly.

“I can turn into that. And that thing next to it? I can turn into that too.” Taiaka chuckled but the girl looked indifferent.

“You can turn into a dire wolf and a parrot? Yeah, I think you’ve had a little too much to drink.” She said this with a smile though, and Taiaka offered her an ambiguous shrug. “Well as long as you believe you can, that’s all that matters, right?” She was trying to either placate him or goad him into proving her wrong. Taiaka didn’t mind either way.

“Well, if I could turn into anything, what would you have me turn into?”

The girl eyed him suspiciously, folded her arms under her breasts, and thought for a moment. Taiaka knew she was debating if she should indulge the drunk.

“I’d say turn into my sister.”

“I’ve never met your sister.”

She sighed, “How does that matter?”

“How can I turn into someone I’ve never seen? Pick an animal or something…”

The girl made a little buzzing sound to show Taiaka she was annoyed. The gesture made his grin crack all ability to keep a straight face.

“Well, you’ve seen me right?” She asked tentatively and the shape-shifter found her attempt at subterfuge adorable. “By your logic, you could turn into me then?”

Taiaka nodded quickly to let her see he had expected the request. This caused her to frown but he was eager in his reply, “I could. But I don’t think I could capture your beauty enough to do you justice.”

She blushed and leaned forward, accidentally brushing his arm with hers. He stiffened and sat up straight.

“How about you just turn into a paying customer then, luv.” Taiaka saw she was leaning forward to retrieve his empty mead glass and he laughed in spite of himself.

Faolan stood at the outskirts of the crowds for a few moments, his heart pounding wildly as he surveyed the bustling streets. He shoved his clammy hands into his pockets and stood there for several seconds, afraid to move lest he be swallowed by the pulsing mass of people before him never to be seen again.

Well, wasn't that his intent?

He gulped. His parents were dead and buried. He had made sure that he had found them a final resting place. But she knew where he lived . . . and it would only be a matter of time before she came back to finish the job and kill him, too. Or worse. She did not seem to be so intent to kill him when he had narrowly escaped from her as he took her to the police, but one could never be so sure. And now Faolan knew that things had taken a downward turn--and he could do nothing but run.

And hide.

In massive crowds of people. He gulped as he watched the sea move in uniformity, begging him to come closer so it could swallow him up and smoosh his internal organs out of his body as it enveloped him with its embrace. But . . . he had no choice. Slowly, hesitantly, he took a step forward towards the people, his body trembling slightly. He wore his sword on his back and a few possessions around his persons; it was all he had now that he had left the smithy for good. The place held too many memories and the unending fears of a new attack.

He took his hands out of his pocket and walked carefully through the crowd, sweat pouring down the sides of his face. He always avoided the spring festival like the plague with so many people pressing around him. Their voices blended together into pure cacophony and their faces blurred in front of his wide eyes. He kept his head down but his attention ever alert on the environment as the crowd gobbled him up and tossed him around its hot, moist mouth. Faolan tugged at the collar of his shirt, praying that he could find somewhere he could slip away and never be seen again.

Didn't you ask for an adventure? he reminded himself. His face flushed when he recalled all of those hours he had spent with the books in his hands as he pretended to be somewhere else. Anywhere else. But--this wasn't what he wanted. His parents were dead and his home was stained with their blood. A psycho killer was on his trail and he had plunged into his worst dreams in order to escape her. His entire world spiraled into a nightmare within the past day. He closed his eyes for a second to try to wash away the thoughts, but to no avail.

Someone pushed him from behind and he looked up. He tried to focus on the face, but his eyes wouldn't let him. Turning away, he pressed into the crowd and tried to disappear from view.

Amongst the giddy and blissful crowd wandered one quiet and tired-looking man, his blue eyes scanning the sea of color that was everywhere. Irritably, a hand was swept through his long hair to brush away the flowers that had somehow found their way there, and he tried to keep his balance as he was assailed on all sides by jostling, happy, laughing people. A few passerby frowned at the lone man, for he was carrying a sword on his hip, and weapons had no place in such a festival. Lyon noticed their looks, but forced forward nonetheless, trying to escape from the crowd. Upon reaching a small break in the throng, he took the opportunity to quickly walk up next to a building where there were relatively few people. There, he took his traditional stance whenever he was confronted with large amounts of people. He leaned up against the surface with his arms crossed across his chest.

The mercenary struggled to stifle a yawn, and failed. He was exhausted from lack of sleep - the festival had started early, and the loud music and sounds that accompanied it had made sleeping in the Inn nigh impossible. So, somewhat grumpily, he had dressed, armed himself, and wandered out to view the proceedings. Upon emerging to a sea of laughter and happiness, however, he had quickly realized how awkward it was to attempt to participate in such an event. He was very much out of his element. Mercenaries didn't have a place in public celebrations, unless they were there as guards to provide protection.

Lyon, who was staring out towards the couples dancing in the square, sighed. For the most part, he didn't mind the few drawbacks that came with being a professional mercenary. After all, it gave him limitless freedom, and a nice pay to boot. Yet, at times like these, he began to realize what a life of wandering cost him. How he longed to be able to settle down and join in the normal traditions of a simple civilian, to have simple lifestyle free of paranoia and war. But it could never be so, for fighting was a part of Lyon's nature. It was where his skills lay, what he himself had chose to do. He had by no means been forced into the mercenary's trade - he willingly accepted it when he asked Kiem to teach him how to use a sword. And now here he was, five years after that day in Estolad, a successful and competent warrior.

The regret he felt for taking the path he did very rarely was felt. Yet when it did emerge, the regret was deep.

Lyon sat himself down on a nearby bench, and his hand dropped down to the hilt of his sword. "Can't go anywhere without you, can I?" he murmured quietly. "I'm chained to you...yet, I shackled myself. There's nothing to be done about it." He chuckled in self-deprecating amusement.

Lyon's head rose, and he resumed his previous stare, his narrowed eyes watching the giggling and laughing crowds pass by. Another soft sigh escaped his lips, followed by a brief question that was directed at himself.

"So, what to do now...?"

Kenith stepped cautiously through the festival. He was jumpy with all the excitement and noise. The reason for this was thus: Kenith spent most of his time in cemeteries, and in those cemeteries, there is only dead silence. That would explain why Kenith constantly was flinching from all the loud noises. Yet, other than the obvious discomfort, he was enjoying himself to some degree. Granted all this 'yippy life junk stuff that will be over by winter' still didn't appeal to him. He was practically a vampire after all.

However, what humanity remained in Kenith was enjoying itself just as much as the next guy (this is excluding the rather old looking man he had recently passed). He had a bag filled with an assortment of goods, all of it jingling within the bag. His eyes trailed about the festival grounds, inspecting everyone he passed. This was a nearly impossible task however, since the people moved in and out in waves. (Yet another thing that spooked Kenith)

Now being a vampire meant that all this blood flowing about each and every individual person (This is once again excluding that old man) would probably be driving him mad. Though Kenith had prepared for this, and he had spent the prior week going on a feeding binge till he was unable to take in any more blood.

With this freedom to move about without fear of bloodlust, Kenith was participating in social activities he had never done before. At one place he was conversing with a bundle of mages. The next place he visited was a crowd surrounding a performer who was juggling javelins. Then yet again he was traversing the crowds, and on the way to his next destination, spotting a rather crazy orange cat. After reaching the point he had set, which was a gathering of merchants, he eventually passed: A fairy, the cat again, a nervous boy, what seemed to be a mercenary, the old man again, and a handful of other notable personas.

Kenith grew tired eventually, and decided to sit down for a while. He found a seat, not paying much mind to where he was, and sat down. He rubbed his sore feet for a moment before he glanced over to those next to him. He nodded to the two next to him, a lady and a fairy.

Flying here, there, everywhere, Acacia found it very difficult to just hold still! The sights, the sounds, the smells; they were quite overwhelming. What was it that she wanted to do first? She just didn't know, and was too jittery to decide! Using her wings, she zipped to the closest stand. She didn't even know what it was for, but her curiosity had gotten her. Going into the stand, she flew around the small display. Large and small stuffed animals and creatures, such as unicorns, cows, chicks, and many more kinds. They were all overly happy looking and appealing to look at. Acacia, deviousnesses and mischievousness appearing on her face, she flew at the closest animal, and deliberately ran right into it. It was simply for the soul purpose of slightly bouncing off the stuffiness and cuddly bear. It was funny and fun to her. She giggled and did it thrice more times, before quickly getting bored.

Fairies often had very short attention spans you see. The reason that they quickly moved on from one thing to another, or forgot things, or were so quick to change their emotions, was because because of their tiny size. It is an interesting thing to ponder, really, but if you open your mind and broaden your beliefs, it is quite believable. They are just too small to keep one emotion, one thought it them at a single time. Therefore, they were rather simple minded creatures, and were nearly always quick and swift in everything they do. Now, Acacia the flower fairy, flurried her wings, taking off in another direction (careful to fly quickly as to avoid being seen by the crowd, luckily whom were distracted with the celebration) and flew to another stall.

This one, it seemed was a stall filled with great candies! Reds, yellows, oranges, greens, purples, pinks, nearly all tasty colours were presented before her. It seemed that it was a self-serve system. You took the candies you want, and then pay for them by the pound, or something like that. The candies, of course, were small fruity chews (for a normal human) and to Acacia were just a little bigger than her head. Not once did paying come into her mind. She took a bright pink one (it was her favorite colour) and flew off, carrying it. It was a bit difficult to carry the heavy candy through the air, though she eventually managed. Flying with a stagger, she settled herself with her candy on the crevice of a nearby shop. Dangling her legs over the edge, she happily took a large chuck of the chew with her right hand. It was sticky, an she felt like she could feel the sugary sweetness with her hands. A moment later, she was putting the glob into her mouth. Oh my! She loved it so much! It was a bit difficult for her delicate jaws and mouth to handle, but with a little effort she was able to take it in. It tickled her tiny throat as it went down, causing her to giggle. My it was good. She smiled as she took another handful and watched the spring festival from abouve.

Acacia looked out as the people below her laughed and enjoyed the festival. Something caught her eye. Children to her left and in the corner. They were by the gardens and messing with the flowers. Her flowers. Probably destroying them no doubt. Plucking off their petals, or spraying killer on them, as children were so cool. The pixie was about to zip off and stop the demonic children from harming her friends-- but she stopped. After looking a bit more, it seemed that they were doing nothing more than smelling them. Enjoying them for being pretty, and admiring the natural scent that they gave off. It cause Acacia to smile. Though she would not admit her defeat, and admit she was wrong, she found it entertaining that she misunderstood. Acacia would allow the children to further smell the flowers; but if they did anything wrong, she would have their faces scratched with thorns.

Quickly getting bored of her candy-- full as well. Fairies have small stomachs as you may imagine.-- Acacia was humming through the sky once more, a faint, pale green orb of light that was difficult to identify in the cool yet charming bright spring weather. She sweeped down, weaving through the crowds carefully and quickly. She did not want to attract unnecessary attention. She came to-- what was it? A doll shop? Yes! A cloth doll shop! Numerous small dolls for sale on the side, all on display. She landed on the stand. It was off. They were all her size, and yet not moving. They looked as if about to come alive at anytime and great her, like the fairies at home-- but no. She stood in front of a rather handsome looking doll-man and waved in his face. She inspected closer and, though she new he was just a child's play thing, wished he would say hello to her.

The pixie sighed. Yet something else caught her eye. It wasn't only just dolls that were on sale. Indeed, clothing and accessories for the dolls were as well. In a different area of the display, were numerous different clothing articles and every day objects. Smiling, she ruffled through the many different kinds of articles of clothing. She found chain mail, shirts, pants, cloaks, crowns, armour, swords, wants, ball gowns, hats, and many other fun items. But what caught Acacia's attention, was an emerald green dress, which went down at mid length. It was gorgeous. Something that she thought princesses would wear. (Though she had never actually met one.) And since she considered herself a princess, she felt that she simply must wear it. Quickly putting it on over her own current outfit, she zipped to a mirror which was also at the display, and looked at herself.

It was a gorgeous green gown. Narrow strapped and drifting down to mid-thigh. It hugged her small form, almost as if it was tailored for her. It came down low enough at her back for her wings to freely pop out. She had perfect control and felt beautiful. She hugged herself, feeling incredibly girlish, and prettier than usual. She continued to watch hers reflection waving, jumping, and doing other sorts of things. She courtesied and began to dance with herself. Oh how wonderful it was!

A smile of pure happiness and joy was upon her face.

Eraspeola walked into the cool air, a smile playing across his face. Today he had chosen an elven guise, fitting for the occasion. The elves were people of the forests, and as it was springtime, he wanted to blend in. He wore his usual dull-grey clothing and cloak, but it was no matter. the colorful outfits and moods of those participants of the springtime festival were more than enough to make up.

He had no job to do today, all his client were merrily drinking and swaying, and leaving the poor assassin out of work for the day. He did not mind at all. He had been working all night every night, and frankly, one gets sick of no sleep. He let himself get caught up in the merriment.

"What a...Beautiful place." He had trouble using the word. it had been long out of use for him. Beauty and emotion had no place in his life. He could not let anybody close to him, no matter how much he trulky wanted it.

Eraspeola shrugged and and joined in the dancing. he could not make a fool of himself. if he was ridiculed, he could reappear as somebody else. Life was easy.

Teresa noticed people staring at her as well as the fairy. She blushed and put her cloak around herself. She forgot to put it on; after all she was training all day. She smiled at the fairy when seeing his face light up. She could tell the fairy was much happier.

“Thanks a lot!” She heard the fairy say. Teresa shrugged her shoulders to show it was no big deal. She saw the fairy dive into the bag and started eating the candy. She giggled and stood up to full height . She towered over the fairy. She hoped she didn’t scare him or anything.

She watched over the fairy munching on the candy until he asked for her name. Teresa smiled. He wasn’t just interested in the candy, that was good. She looked down at the fairy and said.

“My name is Teresa, I got a nickname of Teresa of the faint smile” She said as she shrugged. She sat down next to the fairy and leaned back. She put her hands behind her head and looked up into the cheerful sky; it matched the mood of the festival.

She turned her head towards the fairy still eating the chewy fruit candies she bought him. “So what’s your name and where are you from?” She said looking at the fairy with her oh so faint smile.

She heard a scream and looked over and instantly put her hand on the hilt of her sword. She stood and looked where it came from, She then saw two boys swinging a girl around. Teresa sheathed her sword and put her hands on her hips and laughed out loud. She then realized the fairy was still there.

Horváth glanced around at the merriment, still no less sickened by it than before. It was not the joy itself that got to him - after all what threat was a happy man or woman? - no, it was rather the principle behind it; that these humans felt themselves superior and secure enough in their position to throw such an event in their capital insulted the vampire lord in no small measure. True, the Spring Festival marketed itself as an encouragement for equality, and all races were welcome to attend the celebrations, but it could hardly be coincidence that caused the majority of the crowds before Horváth to be human now, could it? No, whatever it was advertised as, the Spring Festival was nothing more than an annual display of human dominance in the world. Dominance ill-deserved, as far as Horváth was concerned.

"Enjoying the festival, sir?" one small boy asked as he passed with a group of friends.

"Enjoying the use of your tongue?" Horváth replied, the nastiness almost a second nature and not even prompting him to look down at the boy, who soon moved on, disheartened.

The parade was getting more and more intense, and as a result the dancing near the vampire lord followed suit. At one point, one couple who seemed to be locked in each other's stares grew dangerously close to Horváth as they danced with one another, and had to be directed away by Tempel to avoid the vampire lord dismissing them rudely. However, this distraction cost Horváth his freedom from a more pressing annoyance; Lady Friday had returned whilst he had been busy having Tempel push away the romantic couple. Catching sight of her next to him was enough alone to make Horváth's right eye twitch rather strongly, and he frowned even deeper as he demanded of her in his grim voice,

"Why are you back, Lady Friday?"

"I was planning on leaving you to your own miserable thoughts," she said, apparently much happier than when he had last seen her, "But then it hit me; you're only grumpy and such because you have never had anyone show you any real affection."

"The most affectionate thing you could do for me right now," Horváth replied, not missing a beat in his response, "Is to return to the carriage."

Lady Friday ignored him, instead grabbing his hands, which made the vampire flinch and pull back with a dangerously strong grip, but the surprise with which she had caught him was enough for her to pull him into the throng of nearby dancers, guiding him as she twirled them around. Within seconds, Horváth felt burning from the sun, but it was quickly halted by the efficient Tempel reacting quickly and holding the parasol over his master, even as he was span around and round by the obsessed woman. She was dangerously close to killing him, why couldn't she just give up! Losing patience swiftly, Horváth pushed the woman aside, rejecting her last hope of drawing some good from him; romance was not something he ever wished to partake of again, especially not with the daughter of a human nobleman. Shoving his way out of the group, Horváth went, Tempel and parasol in tow, over to the nearest available seat - in this case a group of barrels that was already occupied by what seemed to be some sort of fairy and a human female. Horváth gave them passing looks before leaning against the wall nearby.

"Are you okay, sir?" Tempel asked, drawing a flask which Horváth knew contained blood, "The sun hit you for too long. Perhaps this would help?"

Horváth snatched the flask and began to gulp down its contents.

The tiny fairy was thoroughly enjoying the candies Theresa had bought for him. They were really quite delicious! They were! Seriously, they were probably the best things he'd ever tasted aside from the real fruit that grew back in his forest! He did miss his forest a bit as he thought of it, but he quickly cheered. He was on an adventure, after all! There was no room whatsoever for homesickness on an adventure! He nodded his head curtly at himself, only noticing after a moment that Theresa was standing up. Theresa gave her name as someone nodded at the pair. Aelfdane waved back with a smile and a mouth full of candies (but a mercifully closed mouth). Just as he did, there was a scream. Aelfdane didn't jump, but he did start at the sudden movement of Theresa. It was just some people playing around, though, so he didn't think of it much.

"Well," he said after he'd swallowed the candies in his mouth, "I'm from the forest that surrounds Yomeniampa! I've had some interesting experiences outside the forest, but a lot of the world is still new to me. I've got a lot more adventuring to do! I wanna explore everything!"

The tiny fairy nodded his head excitedly and then popped another candy in his mouth. They were absolutely delicious! The sweetness of the sugar, the tartness of the fruit - both were exceptionally satisfying! They weren't even hard to chew!

Aelfdane's face seemed suddenly covered in bliss as he chewed his candies. He didn't see the kids messing about a short distance away. They were laughing and joking at others' expense. The jokes were very mean. As a couple of the boys spotted a girl and ran after her, though - probably seeking to do mean things to her - their friend shouted after them. He was angry now. He looked around irritatedly and spotted Aelfdane. Apparently deciding on Aelfdane as a target, he headed right for him.

Aelfdane was blissfully unaware as he popped yet another candy into his small mouth, having swallowed the previous one, and chatted with the girl named Theresa. Before he knew it, though, his face was painted in shock as the boy he hadn't seen came out of nowhere and snatched the bag right out of his hands! The boy then disappeared into the crowd as Aelfdane swallowed his candy and leaped up, his wings carrying him into the air. He knew there was no way he could follow the mean boy through that. Utter despair was on his face in addition to the wetness threatening to well up under his eyes.

"Hey!" he'd shouted as the kid grabbed the candy and fled. But now he said something else. "My candy..."

Anger welled up in him like a balloon, filling him so much that he literally started to turn red. His tightly clenched fists were at his sides as he landed and he stood there staring after the spot where the kid had disappeared.

"My candy!" he said, his voice trailing off suddenly. "Why would someone do that! That was mean!"

He was on the verge of half-dejected, half-angry tears now.

Teresa watched as the cute little fairy ate and ate at the candies. She had no clue the fairy would be so…so happy! She had a big smile on her face now, which was rare. It was usually a faint smile. Sometimes barely visible at rare occasions. She waited for him to answer after he ate another piece of that good looking candy.

When Teresa heard where he was from. She had a puzzled look on her face. She had no clue where that was. After all, Teresa didn’t get out in distant area’s much. She noticed the fairy was getting a little hyper, He seemed a little too happy.

She looked at the insanely happy fairy. He seemed to enjoy the tartness, The sugariness, the chewy candy, and most of all, the flavor! Teresa was about to laugh when she noticed some boys messing around. She shrugged it off and noticed Aelfdane started eating again.

She made a mental note to give fairy’s more sugar whenever they are having a bad day. She did a silent giggle at the thought. Suddenly a boy appeared and snatched the candy right out of the fairies hands!

Teresa was about to tackle him when he disappeared into the crowd. She glared into the crowd and some people stared at her. Teresa quickly smiled and laughed to make the thoughts about her lift out of the peoples mind.

She then saw the fairy in a sad mood! Oh no! She had to make him happy again. And since she bought so much candy she didn’t have enough to buy him more. She looked quickly at the fairy and urged him towards the hood of her cloak.

“Hurry grab on, we are going to get your delicious candy back!” She said with a wide smile. It could count for exploring for the fairy. You never know until you try…

Aelfdane looked slightly surprised at the girl's words, but he quickly recovered. He nodded curtly, angry once more, and his wings fluttered madly as they quickly carried Aelfdane through the air. He landed in the girl's cloak with hardly a care as to how he landed, yet his landing seemed to be smooth nonetheless. He settled himelf into the pocket of the cloak, making sure his wings were flattened and folded as much as they possibly could be without being strained or in any kind of physical discomfort, let alone pain. After all, just because he was angry was no reason to let his wings get smashed! Once he was settled, though, he seemed to treat his appearance in the same manner that he had treated his wings.

Aelfdane pulled out a tiny hand mirror and a brush and began furious arranging his hair. It took him several long minutes to get the mop of beautiful silvery hair just right. Even then, it was far from perfect. As a result, he worked his hair the whole time they were searching for the boy. Besides, his eyes couldn't possibly allow him to see through this crowd. The girl with whom he now traveled probably had much better eyes - and much bigger eyes to boot - than he did. Plus, she was a lot taller than he was. She seemed to have no problem moving through the crowd, whereas Aelfdane would have just flown over the top of them.

Aelfdane finally put his brush away, but he spent several more minutes looking at his mirror. He was reminded of the time a thick-skinned fattie tried to swat him for stealing a grape. It had only been one! There were at least a bazillion more on the stem, and there were dozens of bunches! How could he possibly have missed one bloody grape! Then he'd tried a crossbow and had sent people running and Aelfdane flying like crazy in his frantic attempt at escape! Then he'd tried throwing knives! It had been a complete nightmare!

That shocked him, him cussing like that. It was a mark of how angry he was that he was now thinking cuss words. Wonderful. Next thing he knew, he'd be growing as big as a human and losing his ability to fly! That would be a REAL nightmare! He finally put the mirror away, though, and focused on the chase. He was going to get his candy back one way or another!

Eraspeola watched as a fairy fed on handfuls of candy, evidently pleased. He laughed and watched the small one laugh. Out of nowhere, a small boy seized the candies and took off, in his direction. The boy ran into eraspeola, stopping for a moment. He looked up at him, scared for a second. He smiled as he saw the shapeshifter's smiling, elven face. The boy was about to go the other way, when he seized the back of his collar.

"You shouldn't steal, young man." He smiled. The boy seemed scared again, caught. He drooped his head and held up the candy to the assassin. His eyebrows raised and he laughed. "Not to me. You give it back to the fairy, there. I'll come with you to make sure you do." He turned him forcefully back to the fairy's direction and gave him a small push. The boy stumbled back, blushing heavily.

Eraspeola stood behing the boy, and adjusted his hood to block out the sunlight. It had caught the tip of his nose, and had singed it a bit, turning it the slightest shade red. He smiled and looked to the fairy and the woman. "I believe this boy has something that belongs to you."

The thundering drums rung in the festival in true Lomedorian fashion, capturing the spirit of Ehtele'mele. Those simple beats rivaled the complexity of the celebratory dances and festivities, emobodying balance like the vernal equinox itself, when day and night were equal. It had always been how William had interepreted the celebration, homage to Balance and the importance of its role on life, and thusly he celebrated. His experience had been drastically different since he had taken up the mantle of Life and pledged himself to Lothlomendil. Before, misfortune had been just that, misfortune. Now, however, it only illuminated the greatness of what he had.

Regrettably, his journey from the Temple of Life had been delayed. On the road to Lomedor, William had encountered his fair share of bumps. Firstly, the weather had been atrocious, a mix of snow and rain that only made for slippery mud. Besides that, a lack of inns had forced him to sleep in the open, there had been a rash of highwaymen and brigands at their work, and even a disgruntled raccoon that had tore him up for invading his home. An unusual string of coincidences, perhaps the echoes of a disgruntled nature? Either way, the young fighter knew Ehtele'mele could be the best way to stave off a recent plague of bad luck. Their was a purpose in all things that happened.

He took his place among a loose throng of people in front of the Wil-warin Pub to observe the parade. He could always get a drink and afterwards a bed for the night. In the meantime, perhaps he could catch a gift or some flowers in the parade.

He was an odd sight among the crowd, still wearing his travelling cloak with a sword strapped to his back. Today, that uniqueness was a blessing. A particularly beautiful dancer lugged it at him. It was blue and conically shaped with a yellow cord tying up the top of it. There was an object inside, though what it was was not quite apparent. Will caught it in the corner of his eye and proceedingly snatched it from the air. What could it be?

(OMG, that was bad >.<)

No matter who you are or could be, it would be hard to not be swept away by the joy that had fully consumed Lómëdor Square! Everywhere was something fun, andin the air beat the festival drums that could so delight the ears with their tremendous and happy tune! Koron Steamwheedle couldn't understand how some people could get to disliking this even a little! And not once did somebody start acting hateful to Koron Steamwheedle because he was half-goblin. It was so fun to see all the people dance, the children play, and the bards attempt to come up with whatever silly tale they could to meet that beat that echoed through the air. Twice at count he had been asked to dance by a random person, unfortunatley both times he refused to dance along. He was afraid that he would humiliate himself with wretched dancing, although he didn't know since he hadn't danced before.

He didn't really ave anywhere to go, he was just wandering around a bit, seeing if there was anything interesting to join in on. He saw a small group a bit over, there seemed to be a woman, a cloaked man, and a child who apparently was giving a handful of candy to what seemed to be a fairy. Koron knew that he might no have any place to say what happens in this situation, but he still needed to make sure it was actually the child's. He made his way past several people ranging from Atani to Ogres just to make his way to the small group. Once he arrived he looked everybody in this scene over before saying anything.

"What's going on?" He asked curiousley. Although he was almost absolutley opposed to violence, he was also apposed to any theft (which must seem odd to somebody who didn't know him,) and he lokoed at the fairy closley with a questioning look.

When the gifts began to fly out at the onlookers, Horváth grimaced under the shade of the parasol. Tempel seemed to pick up on this sudden decrease in his master's mood, as he said nothing and merely stood silently, diligently, holding Horváth's lifeline above his head. It was a testament to the trust Horváth showed in the servant, to allow him to be the one keeping the sunlight from hitting, and destroying him. Horváth watched as the nearby fairy had its treats of some sort stolen by a human child; typical human behaviour, the vampire noted, for them to steal something from those unable to fight back. As the woman and the fairy disappeared to recover the stolen sweets, Horváth looked back out towards the crowd and immediately noticed something, though he could not explain why his eyes had been drawn there. One man, cloaked and with a sword hanging noticeably from his belt, was proceeding through the crowds, alone, and apparently looked to be nothing more than another adventurer, yet, there was something that had drawn Horváth's gaze. What was it?

"That man," the vampire said, gesturing him to Tempel, "Do you recognise him?"

"No sir," Tempel replied, his eyes narrowing as he focused on the man indicated, "Should I, sir?"

"No." Horváth said simply, his gaze lingering a little longer before moving on.

The excitement was beginning to get to him. As flowers and gifts were handed out, exchanged and appreciated, the adrenaline began to pump even more through the bodies of the crowds all around him. Their blood was running through their veins at an appetisingly appealing rate, and Horváth had to blink several times to clear this thoughts; his right eye twitched as he resisted the urge to grab someone indiscriminately, take them into a nearby alleyway and feast. No, the risk of getting caught was too great, and how would he emerge unnoticed covered in blood? Better to simply stand there and bear it, drinking from his emergency flask of crimson liquid every now and then to alleviate himself of the urges.

Kogata knew this city pretty well by now and had acquired a keen knowledge on the maze of streets and alleyways that littered the place, including the ones going in and out of the square. Meaning that she could weave about through the city with ease and avoid most other people, of course she would occasionally run into another person and promptly sprint off but even so, for the most part it worked well. However in this situation there was no way for her to sneak about, even through the alleyways. Her first attempt had resulted in her path being blocked by two people kissing in secret and she'd immediately turned away before they noticed. Her next attempt was thwarted by another person attempting to interrogate the small girl as to the whereabouts of her parents to which she scuttled off and got caught in the moving crowd.

"Ah, this is ridiculous!" She muttered under her breath "Why are there so many people here?"
Having been raised in the desert and being of a young age, Kogata had very little knowledge of how years and seasons worked. All she noticed was that the rain and cold had come to a gradual halt over the last few weeks and she hadn't been as cold during the night, however that meant nothing to her. It was still cold for her despite the way everybody else seemed to be pretty warm. She shivered a little before being pushed along by the throng of people one more.
"I can't take much more of this," she moaned.
She gritted her teeth and half barged her way against the moving crowd, accidentally succeeding in knocking a tall elven noble over and creating a bit of a domino effect with the crowd behind him. All the same Kogata managed to escape from the throng and made it out into the clear once more.

She looked about and saw the slight commotion she'd caused, noticing a few people grunting and one man yelling about pixies. Kogata blinked, a confused expression crossing her face as she reached up to scratch her jaw.
"What are pixies?" She asked thin air again.
She shrugged and moved off again, planning to find a more secluded spot to wait for the crowd to diminish, it shouldn't take too long right? Of course her bad social skills made it hard to move about that much, there was always somebody leaning close to her and asking questions and every time Kogata veered away from them and changed direction and before she knew it she was lost in the crowd again.
"Gah, no fair," she complained as she was pushed along again "Why are there so many people here?"

She broke away again and breathed a sigh of relief, collapsing onto her knees with exhaustion. Kyte was still fluttering over her head in the same manner as before, perhaps trying to tell the elven girl something. Kogata looked up at her miniature companion, trying to translate his fluttering into something she could actually understand.
"No good," she sighed, looking down again "I can't speak dragon."
She stood up again and looked about. She was away from the crowd again and that was a good thing, but she couldn't see exactly where she was, let alone make it back to her alleyway.
"Great," she sighed "I'm lost."

Nathaniel wasn't usually prone to attending festivities unless there was free alcohol to be had. Most of the time the crowds were too loud and the beggars liked to swarm, and it was easy to get knocked off your feet by one or two rowdy children zipping between people. At least in the pubs there was something of a limit, and most times a seat was also to be had. Out here in the streets you were left to fend for yourself, amongst the thieves and the poor men, the rabble and the rich. Despicable company, to say the least.

But this festival had its perks. Or so the dark-haired male told himself, lounging near one of the walls and staring in at the crowd. For one thing, it was the dawning of the warm season, and thus the celebration of Ehtele'mele. Or was it Eddle melee? Clearly that drink this morning shouldn't have been drank in such haste. Secondly! There was a chance one of his two female companions may show up. Though the business performed would differ, it was an interesting opportunity. Skertin could get to know just how busy Lomedor could get, and observe with him some of the more "interesting" beings.

With Anika he could try to woo her even more. Presents were bountiful here; buying her something would only seem natural. Thus he could drive her even more into his fold, and further his plans. Just that thought alone; the culmination of a successful plan, brought a quiet smirk to his face. Nathaniel was well aware how well things could go, and so far things had only been looking up. The warm sun above seemed as much a herald of this celebration as it did a promise for his future.

Quickly her surveyed the crowd, eager eyes looking for either of the two figures. So far he hadn't seen them, though with the body of people as it was there was a strong chance he'd miss them if he wasn't careful. Dressed in simple clothing that spoke of how he'd waited these warm weathers, he could hardly be called frightening. Especially with pale-faced figures hiding under raven-shrouded umbrellas, and armored men walking with their swords prominently displayed. It was as if they expected something threatening to occur, having been sent as signal fires.

The myriad of other figures were not so gloomy to look on however, and Nathaniel found himself quickly drawn to such sights. Buzzing flies --or, rather... miniature women? Well, truthfully only one, but still. Children, young adults, elders; everyone seemed to be embracing the day. There were a few sights he hadn't cared for; creatures not of pure blood, but that was ignored in light of the occasion. Besides, Nathaniel could ensure he saw to their removal later. On a day not so joyous.

Today was the beginning of everything! The dawn of machinations. With Skertin at hand, a guild as allies and Anika under wraps, it would be all too soon that the rise of man began. Oh, truly glorious the day would be, and no doubt he would look back to this day and smile just as the sun did upon him now. Nathaniel slipped off the wall silently, smirk falling into a grin as he moved to find another vantage point, again searching for his pawns allies. Jakabok, perched upon his arm, gave a chirp of discontent.

The drake, for more simplistic in desire than its master, was simply eager to devour half of the beings to be seen. The snow drake absolutely hated this warm weather, which made its wings moist and its eyes water. The feathers shone brilliantly as beads of frost became mere droplets, and even the usual cold exuded from its feet was warmer than usual. Jakabok would have been happy finding a cold dark corner to curl up in, out of the sun and warm crowd. Instead it was stuck traveling with its master, its desire to hide from the sun trumped by that to serve Nathaniel's will.

The creature was forced to close its eyes constantly against the bright lights, eyelids flicking shut. Many onlookers merely assumed he didn't know how to care for such a beast, though it was more of a lesson for the animal. It needed to start behaving around Skertin and Anika, and he didn't imagine it would be eager to attack when it was exerting all of its energy just to remain awake. The lesson might have been better learned if it knew this was a punishment, but Nathaniel was known for being ignorant at times. Most times.

"Grog tails! Bzzt." The animal commented, and Nathaniel paused in his long strides to glance curiously at the creature. Though glistening and with wings sagging, it was managing to look awake. The neck had gone straight, the head raised perfectly parallel to the horizon. Nathaniel looked out to where it was watching, catching the same sight as it. Apparently Jakabok had caught sight of the pixie. Though unable to understand the garbled gibberish the drake spoke, he understood the desire of his pet well enough.

"Well... alright." He gave a faint movement of his forearm, a sort of swinging motion. With a soft screech it drew back, then flung itself forward to fly through the crowd. Nathaniel didn't expect it would make it far, but imagined the spectacle would be worth watching while he waited for his women.

The preparation went on for almost a week prior to the event, and they all announced a day like no other, a festival like never before, it only got better and better each year as the city capital flourished. Leaving everything bad aside, they lived in a good era.
Zekhen paced firmly through the empty streets of the capital, everyone has gathered in the Square leaving their houses and errands behind. It was a day of a high importance, a celebration, his ears pounded with the beating of the drums and the music. The season of renewal was here. Zekhen learned to appreciate Spring probably like no other, he has been paved throughout most of his life of this blessing unevenly given across the lands of Ea.

He couldn’t help but realize that a year has already passed. So many things have happened during this year, and it turned to be an important period for Zekhen and his enlightenment as a man. For a second time in his life, he pushed through the alleys seeing as the joyful crowd of people materialized before his eyes. He was facing it now through a different pair of eyes, experienced the phenomenon with a different set of feelings, as a whole he was changed and everything that he thought evil about Lómëdor was left behind, at least he learned to leave his differences behind.
The tanned elf was no longer the savage nomad that was afraid of civilization or of getting close, his eyes have been opened at last, and while he was still a little different he tried his best to adapt.

Carefully attached to his right hip there was a sort of bag, improvised from a piece of durable piece of clothing, it was the shelter of an Ehtele'mele bunny which had its head and erect ears poked out, it was a sweet pet which has been found lost by the desert elf after the last year festival ended.

“I believe that this is where you were born, furrball.” Two fingers were gently placed onto the rabbit’s head, petting it idly. “Perhaps I will be able to find someone for you to hang around with. You must feel pretty lonely.” He smiled at the scene of the small rabbit wiggling its nose against his palm, and pushed forth through the streets. Zekhen didn’t know too many things about that particular breed of bunnies, and didn’t actually made any research in that domain either.

Soon he was there!

---

He was assaulted from the first second that he was seen, villagers and those who knew him greeted him, while two girls adorned in colorful cloths and flowers grabbed him each by one of his hand and pulled him into the fun, forcing him to move in steps of a tiny dance and joyful actions. They giggled as they saw the elven warrior trying to shy away from them.

The fun has just begun!

OOC Note: Kiera's Goddess identity is masked for this topic, so to all but other deities and guardians, she appears to be a simple elven sorceress.

It was the search for arcane knowledge that had brought Kieraline to Lómëdor, and the day had been fruitful. The lady elf walked proudly along the streets, chin held somewhat higher than usual as if to proclaim her newest mastery over the arcane arts. The fingers of her left hand folded and unfolded as she tried to release the excess energy she felt, eyes bouncing from person to person as she almost pranced about the streets. The only thing that brought pause to her forward movement was the sound of music floating towards her from the streets ahead. The spring festival! With everything she'd had her mind burried in, the lady of light had long since forgotten that she had planned to attend the festival in Lómëdor Square. The day was carefree and light, and Kieraline planned to keep it that way, so as such she continued right on her way towards the center square, keeping the mask of her deity being in place. To join a party as nothing more than a simple elf, oh the fun that could be had in that!

A quick shake of her head sent long black tresses falling down her back just as smoothly as possible with the breeze blowing about, and a quick shrug of her shoulders and shake of her body straghtened her sapphire robes out, giving her the most put together appearance she could muster, given that she hadn't planned for the coming events so well. Though she was most definitely not gifted with the art of music, the goddess found herself humming along to the music that filled the air, finding herself unable to resist the wish to do so.

The open streets were soon replaced by the busy square, and soon there were all sorts of people gathered about, to the point that Kieraline managed to bump up against more than one, and even find herself suddenly dancing in the arms of an obviously drunk man. Just as soon as she could, she carefully spun away from said man, returning to exploring the festival grounds in search of whatever else there was to be had.

"What'll it be, m'lady?" The voice was hurried, and a quick glance said why. A human woman stood there, green eyes searching for an answer to her question, a tray set heavy with drinks of all sort resting upon her raised hand.

"Wine, whatever there might be to be had, something for the spring?" Ah, how long had it been since she'd had a chance like this, to pop into a tavern or join a street party such as this? A look with the slightest hint of sadness crossed her face as she realized it had been before her accension to the Temple of Light. She brushed the thought away quickly though, as she had no intentions of allowing it to dampen the spring festival.

The next bump she felt caused her to turn with a start once more, her mind quickly giving hope that it wasn't another drunk or something of the like. A smile came across her lips as she found this one to be much more of a treat. "Fine day to you!"

All:
It is difficult to be near the events and avoid being approached by people passing out various gifts, often shoving the gifts into your hands without your welcome. Many receive complimentary flowers, candies, drinks, and colored eggs. A special drink among the many is an unusually delicious beverage unlike any other, having strange "fizzing" property that makes it an instant favorite among many. Popular among the flowers given, one particular blue flower is especially prominent. It is known as "the spring flower," and at this time of year it flourishes. It is the blossoming of this flower that marks the true beginning of spring and sets this very festival into motion.

Many of you discover that not all of the eggs you were handed are hard-boiled eggs! Some of your eggs were magic eggs, laid by an Ehtele'mele bunny that only produces these eggs once a year. When you crack open the shell, instead of finding an egg inside you find something quite different...

Hattie:
The nice young lady you questioned about the Easter bunny smiles down at you, then suddenly looks surprised to see a talking cat. Recovering quickly, she reaches into a basket she holds, and sets a colored egg down in front of you. "Uh, here! You might find an Ehtele'mele bunny if you take care of this." After leaving you the egg, the woman disappears back into the crowd of festival-goers.

OOC to Hattie:
You have received a special gift from the DM! Your unusual colored egg will hatch into an Ehtele'mele Bunny. You can read below for a description.

Taiaka:
After taking your empty mead glass, the barmaid sets down a blue glass bottle with a strange drink in it. "You look like you could use some cooling down, try one of these, on the house. Another mead may not be a good idea."

OOC to Taiaka:
You have received a Fizzy Beverage! You can read below for a description.

Faolán:
Oblivious to your troubles, a passing dancer quickly shoves some items into your hands and wishes you a happy Ehtele'mele. When you inspect the items, you will discover that you've been given some unusual blue flowers, and a blue glass bottle with an unusual fizzy drink inside. It seems the dancer figured you could use a cold drink to cool you off.

OOC to Faolán:
You have received a Fizzy Beverage from the DM! Read below for its description.

Eraspeola:
Even as you sort the situation with returning the stolen candies, another young child bumps into you. Looking rather embarrassed about it, he reaches up and hands you a brightly-colored egg. "Sorry, mister! Here, take this egg, I don't want it!" Before you can respond, he has sped off ahead of you and gets lost in the crowd.

OOC to Eraspeola:
You have received a special gift from the DM! Your unusual colored egg will hatch into a Demon Fly. You can read below for a description.

The Amazing Will:
As you look at the object inside the strange hat you received, you discover that it is a colored egg. What a strange gift!

OOC to The Amazing Will:
You have received a special gift from the DM! Your unusual colored egg will hatch into a Fairy. You can read below for a description.

Zekhen:
You notice a second shape bulging in the bag at your hip. Upon inspection, you discover that your bunny had laid a mysterious colored egg!

OOC to Zekhen:
Your bunny's egg will hatch into... Oh no! I seems that you now have two Ehtele'mele Bunnies!

OOC to All:
Great posts, everyone! I hope you're enjoying the festival so far. If you want one of the following items, just write about receiving it in your next post and the DM will reward it to you: Mint Candy, Cupcake, Fizzy Beverage

Everyone that posted has received 2 spring flowers, as will any future participants. You can increase your chances of getting a special egg item if you write about receiving an egg in your post, but there are no guarantees! For those of you with familiars, if your pet makes an appearance with you in the topic, you can receive a special gift!

---

For those of you not specifically or fully addressed by the DM, the following prizes have been passed out to participants:

Aelfdane Oberon – Mint Candy, Cupcake (fairy-sized just for you!)
Teresa – Mint Candy, Fizzy Beverage
Faolán – Fizzy Beverage
Kogata – Mint Candy, Pet Treat
Kenith – Mint Candy, Cupcake
Pixie-Dust – Mint Candy
Lyon - Cupcake
Taiaka – Fizzy Beverage
Hattie – Egg (Ehtele'mele Bunny)
The Amazing Will – Egg (Fairy)
Zekhen – Pet Treat, Egg (Ehtele'mele Bunny)
Eraspeola – Egg (Demon Fly)
Nathaniel M. Rystoff – Pet Treat
Kieraline – Fizzy Beverage

The gifts you were given by the DM will soon be placed into your signature. Descriptions for the gifts handed out are as follows:

"And the next time I catch you in my house, I'll alert the guardsmen!" A voice yelled into the crisp morning air as a door was thrown open and several things of varying weight and shape were tossed out. Fendrel groaned as he slothfully meandered out of the house with his left hand clutching his head and his right cradling a bottle of whiskey. Dark circles hugged the underbelly of his eyes and he smelled of alcohol and tobacco smoke. He stopped his walking suddenly as a particularly nice looking vase sailed over his head and turned around to look at the older woman who was tossing objects at him and the half-dressed maiden who was at her back, watching with a fearful expression.

"Shut it, you ol' wench. The only reason I was even in your house was 'cause your daughter there invited me in. We didn't wake you last night, so I don't see--" Fendrel started before he was smacked square in the face with a heavy box of chocolates. He instantly recoiled back and time itself seemed to slow down in order to let himself fully grasp the pain that exploded against his upper lip and nose before landing heavily on the cobblestone floor beneath him. The woman gave a haughty huff before turning and walking back into the house while her daughter pulled up her nightgown's shoulder strap and gave Fendrel a pitying look. After a few seconds, though, she too walked into the house and closed the door behind her.

"Ugh...if I wasn't hung over, I'd have carved the wench in two. At least I got these chocolates out of it." Fendrel moaned groggily as he sat up and tenderly checked his nose to make sure it wasn't broken. Wincing at the sharp pain running through his cranium, Fendrel opened the box of chocolates and began to eat one after another. He finished the assortment of mocha treats in no time at all and slowly rose to his feet before stretching. Walking towards the town's center, Fendrel had only one objective in mind. He needed some Firewhiskey. The magical ale that stimulated the senses with a widespread burning sensation that ran through your entire body. It'd knock him right out of his stupor and get more alcohol into his body all at the same time. Luckily the pub was having some sort of sale on all it's mead in celebration of some historical event that Fendrel didn't give two gold pieces about.

"Sir! Excuse me, sir, excuse me!"

"What? What!? WHAT!?" Fendrel snapped in response. He turned and peered his sullen eyes down at a small girl who was carrying a basket filled with all sorts of eggs, flowers, and different candies. She was shivering slightly, mostly because of Fendrel's tone towards her, but upon further inspection Fendrel saw that she was wearing rags and her feet were without protection. Noticing his subjective eye, the girl turned away from him in defeat.

"I...I'm sorry, sir. I didn't mean to bother..." She muttered as she began walking towards an alleyway near the center of town. Loud music and the voices of many a townsfolk reached Fendrel's ears as he saw the activities of some sort of Festival going on. Glancing at the girl and then back at the Festival, Fendrel saw what was going on. She was trying to make a profit off of the festivities of the town, but wasn't having much luck because of her appearance. Those guardsmen at the entrance of the Town Center probably didn't allow 'street urchin' to venture in. Cursing himself for having such a weak heart, Fendrel moved towards the girl and pulled out a few gold pieces.

"I'll...take an egg and some cupcakes, I guess." Fendrel muttered and the girl's face grew bright with joy and admiration. She quickly handed him his requested items and held her hands out for the gold. Dropping the pieces of circular currency into her hand, Fendrel then turned towards the Festival.

"Y'know, I was like you once. Cast out for something I couldn't help. Shunned from the rest of society. I guess you can said it made me quite the spiteful bastard. Well, that's all in the past, anyway. You wanna see the Festival?" He asked. The girl, who had been looking over the gold with quiet obsession, quickly looked up at him in confusion.

"But the guardsme--"

"I didn't ask you all that. It's a simple question. Do you want to go see the Festival?" He interrupted, his voice cold and somewhat harsh towards her. She silenced herself for a moment, thought about it, then nodded vigorously. She'd like nothing more than to see the dancers and the activities going on inside Lómëdor Square. Fendrel smirked and motioned for her to follow him as he walked towards the town center. She stood up and walked after him, though her face was downcast and somewhat fearful. Fendrel passed the guards without a problem, but they crossed their spears in denial when the girl tried to follow.

"I thought we told you to get lost, street urchin? We won't let you ruin the Festival with your thievery and misdemeanors."

"That 'street urchin' of yours is with me, so I'd appreciate it if you shut your traps and let her by." Fendrel said suddenly. The two guards looked back to see Fendrel standing with his longsword tapping idly against his shoulder as he held it at the ready. He was much too disoriented to fight these men properly, but that didn't stop him from trying to intimidate them. It seemed to be working, anyway, because of the guards let a loud swallow be heard before replying.

"Re-Really now? And just what is her relation to you? And why is she without proper clothes like you yourself wear is she's with you?"

"...She's my sister and we're going into town to buy her some clothes now. I don't feel like having a conversation with you two pigs, so let her by and I won't be forced to remove a limb." Fendrel responded with a sly sneer. That did it. They looked at one another before briskly raising their spears in a stationary position that gave the girl room to move between them. She looked at both of them with cautious eyes before slowly walking towards Fendrel. He smirked and sheathed his blade with a loud sheeeeink! and move towards the stores. Once the guardsmen were out of sight, Fendrel turned to the girl.

"Alright, you're here in the Festival. Go do what you like." Was his only response to the girl's large, blue eyes looking up at him expectantly. He then turned and began to walk towards the pub. He could really use some alcohol after wasting his time defending some brat. Little did he know that the girl from earlier was secretly following him from a safe distance. Looks like his troubles weren't over just yet.

Hah! His fortune had turned it appeared. He had caught two prizes, an odd hat that looked like something an old fool would wear and inside of it, an a really strange colored Ehtele'Mele egg. Well, what could you do? In keeping with the merriment, Will donned the funky old hat and slipped the egg into a pocket sewn into the side of his pants.

"Bout damn timed you got that rotten fairy egg outta me!"

What? The knight searched around in shock, searching for the source of the voice. It was obvious the comment was directed towards him, but from whom did it come?

"I'm up here, you bloody genius. And I'm absolutely thrilled that they'd stick a brilliant cone like myself with such a slavering fool."

Apparently, his fortune had not taken such a turn, Will thought. The stupid hat's manners were lacking and the fact that it talked was baffling enough. The pure shock of the thing completely distracted him from the hat's other statement, that he had just received a fairy egg. Before Will had the time to respond to hat, however, it snapped at him again.

"Idiot! Don't think I can't hear you thinking! I'm a blimey magic cone on top of your head! You better watch yourself or I'll bloody screw something up, up here! used to be a powerful wizard ya know!"

"At least, I don't have to walk around talking to you" Will thought, "I could always stuff you in a bag or give you away or not even respond. You're a pretty silly looking thing anyways." It was pretty obvious he was chiding the hat. The knight wanted a bit of pay back after the conundrum of a caps tirade, anyways.

" You'll bloody keep me on 'cause I know stuff you don't!"

"Like what?" Will thought back.

"You swear to keep wearing me?"

"Yes." He was starting to feel a bit crazy having a mental conversation with a talking hat.


"That bloody fairy egg in your pocket is 'bout to hatch soon."

The city rolled out in front of him, and continued behind him. Nafalen was nearing the square where this year's Spring Festival was taking place. It had been nearly six months since he had left the Surface to return home to the Underdark. He had been out of the swing of things for a while and hoped to run into some familiar faces here at the festival.

As he passed the last building and entered the square, he was filled with calm. There were merchants and revelry everywhere. Children were laughing and running around playing. Adults were trying to get lower prices from the merchants. everyone was calm and happy here. Good, evil, neutral, it didn't matter here.

As he passed the first stand a woman ran into him, nearly spilling her basket of eggs. Nafalen spun and caught her, balancing her basket in one arm and her in the other. As she recovered and took her basket back she blushed. Giggling she handed him two eggs, telling him to give one away before she rushed off.

Shaking his head with a laugh, Nafalen put one egg into his pouch and handed the other to a child running past. On the other side of the square Nafalen saw two things that grabbed his attention. A weapons booth and someone that he thought he remembered from long past, from his last journey to the surface.

Dodging the playing kids, shouting merchants, and running parents he slowly made his way to the other side of the festival. There were swords, knives, staves, bows, and weapons of every kind in front of him, completly caputring his attention.

This is where he belongs. On the surface.

Nero walked down a pathway as he came upon the Lomedor Square. He loved the bright faces of the lovely day that had fallen upon them. Nero smiled as he watched people hand out lovely eggs to everyone. As Nero walked the streets it warmed him to see all these people about, no one was fighting at all. Peace...it pleases me that a simple holiday can achieve all of this... something I would like to see everywhere. Nero moved swift fully in and out of the many people that were about as he finally made an end to all the people. He climbed up on an abandoned building as he looked upon everyone. Joyous people... flutters about... if only everyone could be this peaceful all the time instead of most of the time. Though I doubt that will ever happen, without evil the world could not be so. The balance would tilt and everything would overturn... Nero thought to himself watching the people from above. Marching bands fluttered their music for every one to here, joyous performances were being done as Nero watched many of things that were going on.

More eggs were handed out as Nero looked down upon the people. People were handing complete strangers gifts as Nero looked down with a nice smile. He loved seeing peaceful things, it made him feel somewhat happy. He made his way off the building as he came back onto the streets. Nero then watched a street performance for a while before looking away. He loved this time of the year when people were peaceful and the warmth of being loved by another. Though... Nero had never felt that feeling before. He looked around and loved what he saw. He couldn't get enough of what he was feeling. Nero knew that the holiday wouldn't last forever though, and that everyone would go back to his or her normal lives. So Nero watched the people move in and out peacefully, enjoying everything he could while he could.

Nero strolled along watching people as they went about with happy smiles on their faces. He loved the things people were up to today. Nero was someone who was big on the peace thing, and didn't like when people were mean to each other. Many people went about giving each other... food. Nero hadn't really ever celebrated this holiday before, everything was somewhat new to him. He learned many things in the two hours he had been walking the streets. As he neared a both, a magician was doing magic tricks...using real magic. That's what the kids didn't know was that the fire was really being created. He smiled as he left the booth and neared another booth. Potions...food...and other things were offered at this booth. Nero left the booth not being really interesting in a junk type shop. He looked around as random people handed him things. Eggs, and other things were given to him as gifts. Nero laughed and smiled as other people did the same. He loved how everyone could get along with one another. It was such a new experience for Nero he didn't know what to do. Everything was so peaceful and nice. Everyone was getting along and there was no fighting here. Nero thought if the world could be like this all the time, that there would be nothing to harm.

He moved silently and without sadness. This was one of the many difficult times were Nero was actually enjoying himself in life. Such a new experience would be hard on anyone. Nero had different thoughts and views on many different things that were happening in the day. So new and joyous to him, he simply did not know what to think of things. Nero was pushed into a diner and some random people laid gold pieces on the table. Startled, Nero just sat there until a waiter came over.

"What would you like?" Nero looked at the waiter and said that he didn't want anything. Taking the pieces off of the table, he pushed different people in the diner and laid the pieces on the table for them to have a good lunch. Knowing that the people who were pushed in were couples...and judging by the clothes they were wearing, Nero felt these people deserved the most out of the day. This kind of holiday was meant for people to be really happy, and Nero planned on having everyone he could to be happy.

Some smaller kids came up to Nero as they saw what type of a person he was. Nero turned and smiled at the little children who were in front of him, they were all holding baskets with peculur items inside each, they looked oddly shapped, though Nero could not make out what they could be. He knew they were giving out items on the street, but he didn't know exactly what. "What would you like, a trick?" Nero said, in his deep voice as he beamed into the faces of the kids. Almost at once they all nodded their heads in agreement that they wanted one. The angle took out of his coat a deck of cards as he told one of them to take one. One of the kids stepped forward and took a card as they took it back to the other kids that were waiting for the trick. Nero told the boy that he needed to memorize the card picture and number. He took it back as he slipped it with a slight index out ward as he started shuffling making sure not to reveal that the card's end was sticking out towards him. As soon as the card was on top, Nero picked up the card and asked if that was the card they had picked. All the children's mouths started to gap open from the trick of it all. They were all smiling and asking how it was done, but Nero quickly stated that "Some secrets are best left unsaid." Which left the children wondering with their baskets waving beside them.

((Yay! *Lurves free sht00fz.* ^_^ So I'm confused...I just post that I want a fizzy drink in here and I get one? Is that how that works? :blink: ))

The kid with his bag of candies looked rather angry at having to give it back to the fairy, his beet-red face bearing a pair of fast-muttering lips speaking words Aelfdane couldn't quite hear. They didn't sound like very nice words, though - one or two sounded even worse than the one he'd thought a few minutes ago! - but the kid handed over the candies nonetheless. The tiny fairy fluttered out of Theresa's pocket angrily and snatched the candies back.

"These are mine! Why'd you take them from me?! You're mean!"

Aelfdane said a few other things, too, though he didn't cuss. He wasn't much one for cussing, after all - the thought in his head from earlier had been an extremely rare occurrence - but he did give the kid a piece of his little fairy mind! A passing girl who'd been watching the whole thing stepped up quickly and handed a small blue bottle containing some kind of fizzy drink to the fairy.

"Here," the girl said, "you look like you need cheering up, and this should do the trick! Happy Ethele'mele, little fairy boy!"

She giggled.

"You a cute little fairy, too! I like you! Bye now!"

With that, the girl giggled again and ran off. Aelfdane's chest puffed out slightly at the mention of him being 'cute'. She wasn't a fairy, but even she had said he was cute! He put his 'gifts' away and pulled out a mirror to make sure his hair was all right. He pulled out a little brush and brushed it a bit; then he nodded, satisfied, and put away the vanity items in favor of the candies. He quickly found that the kid had eaten the fruit-flavoured ones right away. That saddened Aelfdane and made him angry all over again; he liked those ones! He tried one of the mint candies and found that he liked them as well, but the fact remained that the kid owed him.

"You ate my favorite ones, too!"

The kid, apparently fearing something bad would happen to him if he didn't, quickly pulled out a small sack and handed it to Aelfdane. Inside the sack was a cupcake!

"Here! Take this! I'm sorry! Just don't let these freaks hurt me, all right?! Geez, I'm sorry!"

The fairy could have laughed if it had been anyone else but him. Though he was sad the fruit-flavoured ones were gone, he pocketed the candies and considered the muffins adequate payment for the candies the kid had eaten already. He put the muffin away, too and then noticed someone pushing through the crowd. He seemed to be some kind of soldier or something, for he had a sword by his side. He asked what was going on and Aelfdane explained it to him in his usual excited manner.

The streets where strangely full today. Walking through rather baffled, and mildly confused. Had she missed somthing? Was it somebody's birthday? Noticing a basket, Stella peered in curiously. Eggs? The women, noticing Stella looking curiously, offered her one of the brightly coloured eggs carefully, smiling and wishing her a "Happy Ehtele'mele". What was Ehtele'mele? Twirling the egg round slowly in her hands, Stella admired the colours, the.. the... roundness of it!

Spotting a little girl sat on a wall nearby, Stella offered the egg with a smile, a warm feeling of goodness flooding through her as the little girl unwrapped it in wonder and excitement. Surely, this "Ehtele'mele" was a good thing. Spotting a man hanging up a poster, Stella read it eagerly. "Spring Festival". So... this Ehtele'mele was Spring? Confused, Stella made her way further into the organised Chaos that was the celebrating people. Everything... everything was so fun!!

Making her way to a bunch of children, Stella looked at what they where gazing at. Bunnies!! She squealed in delight with the rest of them, laughing as a elderly women scattered some carrots for them. Soo cuutee!! With an outwardly content sigh, she moved on eagerly. She was just metres away from a little stall she wanted to check out when she was attacked by what seemed a small fluttering thing. Waving her arms around madly, she stepped away to notice that the small fluttering was a fairy!! With a happy outwardly cry, Stella waved at the small winged creatures as they flew away. This.. "Spring" really was amazeing!!

Managing to make it too the table at last, she eyes the treats that where displayed. Candies, chocolates, Fizzy drinks, Muffins... M00fins! Walking away as a mother came to buy some sweets, Stella settled herself on a little bench, and watched as the local townspeople exchanged gifts. Spring... Stella hadn't been on Earth long, but already she had experienced her first Spring, and already... it was probably one the the best little Festivals yet!!

Nathaniel watched as his proud drake surged forwards, wings clipped close to its body and tails straight. Its beak and horns were a pale silver in the weather, and at the speed it was moving more than one feather had slipped loose and floated to the ground. That did not deter the beast from its meal of course, and already it was fantasizing about how delicious a bzzt-bzzt must taste. As luck would have it, a second one seemed to be within range as well!

The beak rippled faintly, as if the creature might sneer; the build of the beak didn't allow such actions however. Golden eyes ablaze, it tilted its long form so that it could sweep past a child and remain on course. Another screech was given, as if the noise was somehow fair warning. Then it extended its wings fully, talons splaying wide and--

Crashing into a young woman's basket. Jakabok managed to slam head first into the basket, its talons latching into it. The side it'd torn into leaked yolk, and with an incredulous squawk it began trying to free itself. Bright purple and green-dyed wood had been woven meticulously, so that if one was to break the others would remain sturdy. This wasn't very useful for the creature trying to free itself, who was pulling with all of its might but failing to get free.

"SQUAWK!!" The noise drew the attention of a few people, who debated helping the young woman free the creature. Her face was a mix between terror and humiliation. She wanted to help the thing, but with wildly swinging tails it wasn't being particularly convincing. Nathaniel watched for a few minutes more before deciding to intervene, approaching the barely noticed spectacle. More than a few people had to be shoved out of the way or dodged altogether, and once or twice he lost sight of the occurrence.

Eventually when Nathaniel did make it over Jakabok had moved on to biting at the handle of the basket and constricting his tails around it like some serpent, somehow believing breaking the handle off would grant him freedom. The woman had smartly placed the basket down on the ground and stood away from it, staring and not quite sure what to do. There were goodies in it that she didn't want to abandon, but the thrashing drake wasn't a pleasing prospect.

"Finch." The sharp tone made the beast cease its movements altogether. Even dressed in a casual white shirt with the sleeves rolled up, Nathaniel had a bite to his words when the need arose. The woman looked between him and the drake, watching silently as he moved over to the animal. His shadow through it into obscure darkness, and with meek eyes the drake removed its slobbering jaws from the handle and looked up to him.

"Get off the basket." He told it firmly, and it tugged on of its legs pathetically. Crouching low Nathaniel grasped the cool foot, carefully unhooking the claws from the basket. Yellow yolk oozed out of the side and coated the dark talons, which gave Nathaniel reason to frown momentarily. Then he outstretched his arm to Jakabok with an impassive expression, and the creature slowly clambered up his arm and onto his shoulder, pulling its wings tight and slouching.

With that finished the woman came over, and he rose and offered the basket back to her. "Sorry about that. He gets blinded rather easily." The woman cast one unsure glance to the creature, then gave a slow smile. "Yes, well.. no harm done. Here, have this treat," She reached into the basket, rooting about before procuring what looked like a mock wooden dog bone. "Here, maybe he can chew on this?" She went to offer it to the drake, though the creature snapped its beak at her and hissed lowly. She faltered again, and Nathaniel smiled.

"That's very kind of you, thanks." He took it slowly from her. "I'll see about getting him a little more crowd-broken." She gave another dull, uncertain nod then slipped off. Nathaniel watched her go, then looked to the creature on his shoulder. Jakabok watched him back for a moment, then gave a soft noise and draw his wings up above his beak, as if hidden beneath a blanket. Nathaniel knelt down and lifted one of the eggs that had slipped from the woman's basket, turning it over in his hand. Initially he'd thought it was broken, but on further inspection it had somehow managed to remain whole.

Perhaps it could be eaten later. Slipping it into his gold pouch, he also tucked the treat away for the time being. He needed to find Anika or Skertin, and every second seemed to see the arrival of more people! Worst, he was now stuck somewhere in the middle of the crowd. Though the tussle with Jakabok hadn't been enough to draw a lot of attention (there were far more amusing things to watch), it had been enough for him to lose sight of where he could exit back out of the crowd. Nathaniel let his gaze scan the moving image, then moved near a young girl prancing by with a basket.

"Excuse me, young one." He crouched low to become eye level, putting on the warmest smile he could. It came off rather similar to the weak frost trying to issue from Jakabok's feet. "Have you seen any girls your age around here? Long white hair, purple eyes?" He'd start with Skertin, then move on to Anika.

More and more people seemed to be arriving by the second, some very unusual guests. Stella was certain she had spotted a strange Pale silver blur pass by the crowd, but put it down as a trick of the eye. Everybody was having a good time, and as more people arrived, Stella kept her eyes open for somebody familiar. Surely their would be somebody here that she would know, this little celebration being as big as it is.

"Excuse me, young one. Have you seen any girls your age around here? Long white hair, purple eyes?" Stella recognised that voice. Even today, though they had been friendly towards one another, Stella felt a strange silver travel down her spine, as well as a weird throbbing sensation tingling down her arm from her shoulder. A reaction that she realised that had began to happen around Nath lately.

Jumping down off the wall, Stella began a happy skip towards him, happy to see a familiar face. Weaving in and out of the passing crowd, she smiled, and wished people a happy Spring. Surely it was like Christmas, where you wished everyone a happy time? Everyone was happy enough, and it was unlikely there was anyone in this world that wasn't having a great time today as far as Stella could see.

Sliding up to Nath silently, she smiled. "Boo!" She stepped back, and held her arms wide. "Isn't this Spring great!! Remind me of Christmas, except no cold white things you know?" She laughed, then spotted some more bunnies. Turning back to ask Nath if he liked the, or not, she spotted somthing that was at the side of Nathan. Where had she seen that before? The silver thing? It seemed familiar, as though Stella had been.. well scared of it at one point. Maybe it was a dream...

Eyes still focused on the strange silver thing, she looked up at Nathan, now serious. "What's that?" She whispered, scared that the thing would hear and quite possibly snap at her. Stella had yet to be bitten by anything here, and she wasn't ready to start a little trend. With any luck, the thing would be cute and cuddly, just like the Bunnies Stella had seen!!

The Spring Festival strangely was something that Kobushi had not visited before. Generally he was too busy getting lost and more lost in the Misty Forest around this time. And now he regretted missing all those other years! This festival was great! Around every cornor was joy, and hanging in the air was the sound of the festival drums. It stirred up the pandaren instinct in him, and now he wanted to drink. This must have been how Chen Stormbrew fealt back on Azeroth when he was invited to a celebration! But alas, Kobushi didn't have anything to make a good alchoholic beverage with, instead he would just have to order some ale from a local seller, none could every compare to that of Chen's but it could do in a pinch situation! Possibly in his whol life, Kobushi only made a couple dozen drinks, and that's over