[Newt is holding a left foot cowboy boot. Which looks like its made of leather to the eye. However, Newt continues to feel the boot like the boot doesn't feel the material the boot looks but something in his tells him it is leather even if doesn't feel like leather]

Hello. I was wondering if there is anyone who could come and take a look at the boot I found. There's something odd about but also not.



^{(The boot is a paradox. If your character would icly see that or sense that in some way - go for it :>)}

Do water creatures usually grow so rapidly?

[Grievous is holding a bowl in which a goldfish is splashing. The bowl seems far too small for the poor fish. Somebody help him.]

[Cue a broom flying around Everglade since Luna's been lending magical aid to those fighting monsters/nightmares. But now its her turn since thanks to spell backfire she can be seen fighting Death Eaters. But when she realized her device is on she blasts an SOS to her world, or so she thinks.

Its public.]


SOS! Death Eaters in Everglade! Can hold them off for now but if they get into the air I'll have problems!

[Action for Albus.]

[He sends a message via Patronus. The Phoenix seems extra proud, preening and displaying his ghostly feathers as if he is in the midst of...a mating dance?]

Albus, meet me in Fayren forest at our last camp site.

[Gellert's voice gives nothing away. At said site, magic has transformed the land. Balls of flame in red, orange and gold line the perimeter and, interestingly, in the center, there is a...nest. A large bird nest.]

[/]

[Gellert is nursing burned hands, but trust him, it is so worthwhile.]

I adore Fayren Forest. There really is nothing like it! [It's a place of dream fulfillment for him, at least.] I need good suggestions for wine. I'm fairly easy to please where alcohol is concerned, but others surely have a more discerning tongue.

[The feed shows a rather upset looking young man - with a rather impressive set of horns. He adjusts the device, not accustomed to such technological knick-knacks. The Genessia Commonplace's entrance is behind him. His voice is low and rough.]

What the hell is going on here? I didn't risk everything to save the world, just to end up being abducted to another one! My people - ...Ugh, damn it! [Sighs. His draconic left hand reaches over to touch a mark on his right shoulder.]

Well if we're stuck here, like that illusion woman said, then I might as well fight alongside you. I'm Darc, King of the Deimos. If there's a way to release us from this "Genessia", then I'll help find it. But I'm not here to make friends! So don't count on it!

If there's anyone else from my world, especially Deimos, then say so.

If you are informed of your future and it is...unfortunate...do you ignore it or try to change it? [He has more or less made his decision, but he is open to the opinions of others.]

Furthermore, do you believe anyone can change for the better? Are some beyond redemption?

[Also, who decides such things? He wants to argue over that point out of habit, but this is serious and he is trying not to be an ass.]

(Some spoilers for Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald inside)

( But we're not so starry-eyed anymore, like the perfect paramour you were in your letters )


[video]

[Albus is standing in front of the dream docks, though this time he looks a bit dazed and disoriented. He doesn't look any different than before, except that his wrists bear marks on them like they'd been cuffed. For a moment, he blinks and seems to bring himself back to where he was, his memories flooding to him in a rush.]

...well. I seem to be back, now. From however long I was away for.


[action with Gellert Grindelwald]

[The first place he goes to is Gellert's home, without stopping to change clothes or rest or reorient himself. His head is still spinning, and everything is still a confused jumble -- Gellert is younger, but not, he loves him, he wants to kill him, he is killing people, he is working to be better. Albus can't keep them apart in his mind, the two of them melding together in his thoughts, and his heart aching with the confusion of it, of how mournful and pained and loved he feels when thinking of him.

But he does remember that he promised to go to him first once he returned. And in truth, he is desperate to see him, to remind himself of this version that loves him and wants to change. Even if his interactions with Gellert's plans have been distant and cautious, every word and image of him has been an ache to his heart. He wants to remind himself of the rest of him, of how much more there is to him, of the hope he'd had before he'd been summoned away from this place.

Albus knocks on the door a little frantically, looking dazed and tired but also desperate to see him.]

I've been dreaming of home more and more as of late. At first I thought they were normal dreams, except I've never dreamt so much about the same few things ever before. I keep seeing Paris -- the graves of Père Lachaise especially. Paris, and the school, and the roof of St. Paul's Cathedral, and yet I could not say why.

And now whenever I try to walk anywhere, my feet carry me towards the dream docks. I can't Apparate to anywhere except here.

There is a nagging in my skull that I am needed elsewhere. I can only guess as to why. But I don't think I can put it off any longer, no matter how much I have tried to drag my feet.

I aim to come back. I don't wish to stay at the docks forever. But if I don't return, please stay safe, all of you. And have a happy Christmas if I do not see you then.

Message sent to Gellert Grindelwald via Patronus:

( And as soon as this is working, I'll make him take me home )


((OOC: Dumbledore is off to the dream docks to canon update himself through the events of Crimes of Grindelwald, and will be back next week, just in time for Christmas.))

Masquerade! Paper faces on parade
Masquerade! Hide your face so the world will never find you
Masquerade! Every face a different shade
Masquerade! Look around, there's another mask behind you




Welcome
Though the evening outside is chilly, there’s nothing but warmth and lively atmosphere inside. The room itself (the ballroom atop the self proclaimed ‘most romantic and luxurious’ Genessian getaway) is almost blinding, glittering with gold from floor to ceiling, save for the towering framed windows that provide a beautiful sight of the city below. Tables are scattered here and there around the perimeter should attendees wish to rest their feet, but the centerpiece of the evening seems to be the massive, sparkling chandelier casting its warm, golden glow over a rather extensive dance floor. One end of the room is reserved for the band, poised just near the hearth featuring a roaring fire, while the other showcases a grand staircase on which one may make their entrance, should they choose to explore the upper lofts that surround the room beforehand.

Early in the evening, once the room has begun to fill, a couple steps up to welcome everyone on behalf of Genessia’s Performing Arts Center and the cast of their most recent musical. While the event is free, and they are delighted to be able to share a magnificent evening of splendor with everyone, they do wish to make everyone aware that should they choose to donate tonight, be it through benevolent gift or through the auction or gambling tables, all proceeds will be donated to the Red House Foundation- more specifically, Genessia’s branch, located in the heart of the city herself.
The call to enjoy the masquerade is punctuated with a deep bow and the swell of the band picking up once more to lead everyone into a night of majestic merriment.


Photos
With numerous celebrities about and the event in full swing, it’s to no one’s surprise that there are photographers practically crawling the place. Fortunately for all, quite a few have been hired by the event planning team and will be snapping moments (both candid and posed) of everyone in attendance. There’s even a designated area with various props to play with and a lovely backdrop doused in gold. These photos can be downloaded from the network later, so take advantage of these professionals, should your heart desire! After all, did one really look their best if there’s no photo to prove it?


Dancing
While there’s certainly no pop star performing and the music is much more classically suited, one will hear a familiar tune more often than not, spun by the tuxedo clad musicians to suit a more modern crowd. It’s upbeat and energetic for the most part, but every so often, they're likely to switch the mood to something much smoother (dare they say, romantic?) to sway to. Instructors are scattered throughout the crowd, should those unfamiliar with the ballroom style wish to learn something new!


Food
A party without food is absurd, regardless of the occasion. Drink flows readily from the bar, and an impressive variation of hors d’oeuvre has been laid out in a brilliant spread on the long tables along the edges of the room. Partake as you will, and leave a donation to show your appreciation if you’re so inspired!


Costume Parade
What’s the point of a masquerade without an outfit promenade? Show off your inspired attire to all who will gaze upon you. The more flamboyant, the more attention your costume will draw, and the more in-character one seems, the more believable the evening will be- Embrace the masks and let loose! Tonight is the night to be whoever (or whatever) your heart desires.


Gambling/Auction
Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, there are multiple donated items on which to bid, ranging from weekend getaways to baskets of sweets to… rather peculiar fashion and odd home decor.
To the right of the auction display, there are multiple gaming tables with waiting croupier, ready to assist those with heavy wallets attempt to woo Lady Luck. The winnings (should there be any) can be kept or donated- the choice is yours.


Gardens
If one finds a need to escape the swirling of dance and swell of the music, the gardens below may serve you well. There’s a lovely courtyard, and just beyond the fountain, a garden maze, well lit for the season with the gentle glow of dazzling lights. Take a stroll alone, or hide away with a lover or confidant, or snag a seat for the fireworks- the choice is yours.


Fireworks
No grand gala ever ended without a burst of excitement to round out the evening. Toward the end of the evening, the sky will be lit with a brilliant display of silvers and golds, all timed perfectly with the band’s final performance. One can watch from the gardens or the rooftop, or, if in need of something more ~private~, the balconies throughout the hotel.



Masquerade! Burning glances, turning heads
Masquerade! Stop and stare at the sea of smiles around you
Masquerade! Grinning yellows, spinning reds
Masquerade! Take your fill, let the spectacle astound you

((ooc: Questions? PM this journal or poke dovefire on Plurk! Have Fun!))

Who: Newt, Albus and Tina
What: Searching for Newt
When: Early in the event
Where: Newt's suitcase

Waking up as the living dead wasn't something high on Newt's list. In fact, didn't take Scamander long to figure out what he was and afraid that he was a danger to his friends. After a bit; Albus and Tina might wonder where someone is - since it's unlike Newt to not be around them. If they search his suitcase; they'll find him hiding with Frank the Thunderbird and petting his Thunderbird and talking to Frank.

"What am I do Frank? I can't eat my friends or anyone else for that matter.." However, he is starting to have unusual cravings. That and the thought of eating human flesh real or synthetic is quite bothersome thought.

[The feed turns on to a black unicorn looking down at the phone, and with how she's pulling away, it's obvious that she's used her horn to work the damnable device. This whole technology thing was so strange to her, but at least she was attempting learn, right?]

Um....is this thing working? I hope it is.

Hello, I'm Lily.

[She pulls away further, giving a better view of her equine face with bright blue eyes and her long silver horn. Her long black mane drapes from her neck, a long forelock to match hanging down in front of her face. She snorts, and looks about, not sure if this was actually working, but willing to give it a try, and seems to gain some of her confidence as she goes.]

This tool is such a strange device isn't it? But that's not quite what I came on to ask about. You see, I don't have much experience being.....of the equine variety and I was wondering if anyone could help me learn somehow? Or at least explain to me how to not be at the bottom of a herd. Yes, I know, a very human thought probably, but human is unfortunately what I know. I don't know how to be another way. So, can anyone help? Even more is what does a unicorn do? What's our purpose, and yes I know there are legends out there, but they're all different. I guess....what's everyone else's knowledge of my kind is what I'm asking? I'm sure everyone knows something different and maybe those stories could help me figure it out somehow.

My greatest thanks to anyone who answers.

[A potion is brewing in a large cauldron, filling the room with questionable scents. Gellert has opened a window to help matters, but this is a price all potion brewers must pay. Sometimes you are forced to work with unpleasant ingredients.]

I've shared one fairy-tale from my world with some of you, so I thought why not share another?

[And thus Gellert recites, from memory, The Wizard and The Hopping Pot.]

( Cut for length. )

What do you think of it? Should Magic be available for all who could benefit from it? Or should the one so gifted be the one to choose who they aid and who goes wanting? Obviously one Witch or Wizard cannot save the world, so that leaves the question: should they still try?

Who: Newt, Kioshi, Satori, Tina and Albus

What: Moving in

Where: Old Hell/Chireiden

When: August 15ish

Kioshi decided one day, as Newt is out in the field to kidnap him. Which to be honest - having met Kioshi before Newt was alright with this. However, Newt didn't know Kioshi was going to kidnap Newt to a house. A very lovely house in fact. Between the Gothic and Russian architecture and towers - Newt felt like he was back at Hogwarts.

"Very lovely house; but why are we here?"

That said - kidnapping Newt usually means also kidnapping Tina and Albus.

^{(More info here)}

[A twitchy nose with a fine set of full whiskers comes into view, along with a pair of prominent front teeth. Tilo's large, black eyes shine as he blinks a few times quickly. A small paw comes up to adjust the hood over his head and his nose and whiskers twitch again.

When he speaks his voice is rather high pitched but not grating or squeaky, one might even find it pleasant.]

Why does everyone here wear pants? How can you tell someone's station if everyone walks around in trousers all the time?

Video

[Anyone watching the video is going to first notice that it's very, very low to the ground. And that whoever has it is running down the streets of Genessia City and climbing the sides of buildings like there's nothing to it. When the movement stops, the camera is pointed at Stitch's face and he blinks a few times before...]

Hiiiiiii.

Action

[People in Genessia City might come across Stitch as he skitters down sidewalks and up buildings. They'll notice that he follows traffic signals and tries to avoid running into people, but is incredibly curious about the new city as he perches on the top of light posts and sides of buildings before jumping down and carrying on.

He'll stop a few times to check where he is, so you can catch him if you want!]

GIR!

[Oh what the fresh hell is this.

Zim's certainly a sight here, a panicky, vaguely smokey sight, judging from the shadows and background, he's perched on top of the pod he woke up in.]

GIR, I can't reach you through the communicator link, you better be on this frequency, GIR, LISTEN TO ME.

[That's right. He's assumed that this is a private conversation. Here we go-]

I'm surrounded by water and if you do not get here right now, GIR, RIGHT NOW, I'm going to burn to death, are you listening? I need you at my coordinates right now, GIR!

I'm at-

[A pause, because he... doesn't... know where the hell he is, or what his coordinates are, or probably what day it is. There's some aggravated grunting]

Look just... just figure it out! GET OVER HERE RIGHT NOW, AND DON'T LET ANYONE SEE YOU! If I fall in the water and die, you can't have any more waffles ever again! ... EVER.

EVER, GET OVER HERE!