[Trouble finds Gellert quite easily because, let's be frank, he looks for it. But the problem is - trouble tends to have teeth and claws and, well, he is a man that bleeds. Thus the deranged Wizard - he will agree to that title, by the way - is coughing up blood when the video begins. That can't be a good sign.]

The dragons sought revenge. [So he has dueled with a great beast and...lived. It's rather spectacular.] I need a Healer and quickly if you don't mind.

[He is back in civilization, somewhere in Fayren, his back pressed against the wall of a shop.]

[ Hey look, it's another teenager! A totally and completely normal teenager that has managed to scrounge up some clothes that aren't just whatever the hell he was wearing under his suit. Looks like a hoodie and some kind of shirt that looks like it might be nerdy? He tried for a nerdy aesthetic, anyway, which is hard when he doesn't even know what nerd culture looks like here. He's seated outside in Nova City somewhere, trying to figure out what to do next.

Anyway. He. Waves awkwardly? ]

Hey, um. I'd ask if people really just introduce themselves online like this without making it like "Welcome to My Star Wars Vlog And/Or Podcast" but I went back and looked at a bunch of posts and I guess that's exactly what it is? Which is cool. But weird? I'm weirded out.

[ Focus, Peter. Maybe breathe a little. He looks incredibly awkward, which is still only 50% of the Awkward Peter Parker Experience. ]

Anyway, I'm Peter Parker! I just got here like. A couple hours ago? And I have one really super important question.

[ Pause. Try not to look too excited. Look incredibly excited. ]

Did I see something about Pokémon? Like, actual physical Pokémon? Is that real or is this some super convincing AR thing? Because I'm down with both but if it's the first kind I am literally going to explode.

[A figure stumbles from the docks, dressed in black. They are incredibly pale, the black strands of their hair sticking to their cheeks and neck. The heat is not their friend and the sudden change in circumstances isn't helping.]

Where...is this? [Akito runs a hand through their hair, dropping onto the nearest bench available.] I am Akito Sohma. If I have been kidnapped, I demand to know the reason why.

[It really is hard to tell their gender. At first glance, one would think boy, but that can be misleading. Their voice is feminine, but low. Or maybe they are projecting it lower on purpose.]

Tell me.

You may not be comfortable giving your specifics, but I would like to take a head count for magical users. Do we outnumber those who are "normal"? [If you can detect a certain bitterness to that last descriptor, well, there is a reason for it.] As far as I can see, our dear overseer or overseers like interesting sorts.

[By interesting he means "posing some danger".]

For those of you who are new, I am Gellert Grindelwald and I can claim, with a fair amount of comfort, that I am one of the most powerful Wizards in all the cities. But don't be frightened. I usually have a reason for those I strike down.

[Ha...ha...ha?]

Who: Kier and erryone
What: random things
When: All of July!
Why: Because this lone wolf needs to be less alone

( Read more... )

( Ok, he just got rid of Kars, and then this happens.

Awesome! Great.

He gets the gist of the smartphone after poring over the pamphlet and a lot of pressing buttons. Yet ... After he realizes he's recording, he plays off the initial pause like he meant to do that. )

Does this place always take you right when you get married or make a big move? Or rather, when you do anything you're really looking forward to?

( How cruel this place is! He misses his wife and his comic books already. )

[Anakin is quick on his feet, striding from the docks as if he does this everyday. He can't allow himself to be weak or confused; he has to keep his feet firmly planted and then, in private, panic later.]

This is one hell of a welcome. [He scowls darkly and there are shadows around his eyes as if he has spent many nights not sleeping.] I'm not anyone's prisoner. If you think you can hold me, you are sorely mistaken.

[The flash of his lightsaber can be seen - his one remedy for the horror that is bearing down on him.]

Something has happened to the CPU! Security measures seem to have gone absolutely wonky, making everyone’s conversations:

◘ Private messages may become public messages
◘ Unanonymous when they’re trying to post anonymously
◘ Undeletable
◘ Misfired

Will it cause technological and privacy chaos? Yes, absolutely. Have fun with that.

Keep in mind that there is only one requirement for participation in this event: You must tag at least one person you do not currently have CR with a misfire.

Otherwise, whatever drama or crack you want to cause with this one, go for it. The CPU will feel better on Saturday, so this is a quick two-day event and will be done in this single log post (here!) so it’s easy to post misfires all in one place but as always, you are welcome to make your own posts as well.

To opt out: There was a power surge when this technology fluke happened, so your device is now refusing to turn on. It may need repairs or replacement.

[While Genessia has more than its share of benevolent dragons, leave it to Gellert to find a truly vicious one. The crack of what sounds like a whip accompanies the bellowing roars of the beast well. Gellert might look like a hero, silhouetted as he is by the dragon's flame, and he certainly seems unfazed by all the fuss.

But then he laughs and the sound is unnerving.]

Now, now, is that necessary? I just need a little blood. You won't miss a vial or two.

( Cut for Dragon Violence... )

Wasn't that exciting? [With his feet on the ground, he ducks into the cave and brings out the spoils of his battle.] It is so very hard to acquire dragon blood.

[There follows an audible thump and he looks up.]

Poor thing. They want to bury me in here, is that it?

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!))

[Qubine's relaxing in his cave, laying across the cold stone floor when the feed comes on.]

So...is everyone enjoying their transformations?

[There may be a hint of amusement in his voice, but he's honestly just curious. He's not planning to be mean...]

Well, I have to admit, this has been a very curious morning.

[Albus Dumbledore is sitting in a chair in front of a small table in a place that is not his normal living quarters shhhh and looking at his own hand with a small, mischievous look on his face.

There's nothing in his hand, until his smears his thumb over his palm and a small hard candy appears. He raises his hand up and drops into the palm of his other hand. And then drops another hard candy, and another. And then he releases a candy cane, and a lollipop, and a roll of taffy, letting them accumulate in a small pile on a table in front of him, each item appearing out of thin air.

It's almost like watching a magician pull a trick, except his sleeves are rolled up, and he doesn't have his wand.

He seems utterly delighted by this, his eyes shining with even more mischief than normal.]


Tell me, would anyone be interested in some candy?


((OOC: Dumbledore is now a deity! Specifically the deity of sweets.))

Who: Li and Lily [Closed]
What:  Teaching a unicorn how to fend for herself, Li style. 
When: After Doll Event
Where: Fayren Forest?
Warnings:  Don't know yet. 



( Li being Li. )

[This shouldn't be broadcasted. This shouldn't be here. Gellert realizes, far too late, that he is being watched. The hour is late and his face is only lit by firelight, but there is a notable difference. Instead of two cool blue eyes, there is...one. The other is a dark brown - almost black. A look of anger crosses his features and he stretches out a hand, flinging his communicator across the room.

Somehow, it doesn't break.]

Du hast nichts gesehen. [You saw nothing. Understand? Good.]

[The video opens up to Lily, not that anyone who’s met her thus far would recognize her. Instead of the black unicorn she’s been up till now, she has finally managed to transform into her human form again, and looks quite happy about it.]

It feels so good to be human in form again. I never thought I’d miss it so much. To have hands and fingers. To be able to hold and do things again. I almost thought I’d be stuck the way I was forever.

Hello again everyone!

[Voice.]
[Steve Rogers is a man who would like to think he’s gotten better at learning how to use technology. It’s been a few years since he has been out of the ice. When needed, he can fly the quinjet. He’d even been able to work a phone and a computer. He still wonders how Howard Stark felt about the modern world as it changed around him. He, at least, wasn’t thrown into it like Steve was. He’d helped to make it. So, the pamphlets were a little unnecessary as he toyed with the small device in his hands. His only real hesitation is to reach out to someone he doesn’t know.

He has no clue who he knows here and who he doesn’t. Being kidnapped and brought into a strange new world was also, sadly, something he was quite used to. His shoulders slump a little and a small sigh can be heard as he stares into the screen. He’s seen better days. Sporting a scraggy beard and some dark circles under his eyes, Steve forces an awkward smile.]

Hello. I’m Steve. I am new here, so it seems. I just spoke to the woman in white. And I went where I was supposed to go to get answers. Didn’t…” [He frowned.] Didn’t really get the answers I was looking for, but it’s a good start. I… I’ve been told what comes next. [And yet, there’s a sadness in his eyes. He doesn’t want to be here. He needs to get back home to Sam, Nat and the others. So many were depending on it. On him.]

So… Hi?

[action.]

[Being new in town, Steve really isn’t sure where to go. So, he opts to just wander aimlessly. As long he careful and did not interact with anyone specifically, he should be fine. Right? He needed information and walking around just seemed like the best course of action for him. After all, not many would speak to him because he was new. Or, perhaps he was imagining it.

Either way, Steve is walking down the street. Your street? He wants to try to meet some people and try to find a way home. He understands finding a job and trying to settle in. Still, it has to be off putting for others here. Doesn’t it? One hand reached up, running though his hair as he glances around. At least, eve n in this place, people watching and letting them move around him was slightly fascinating.

He doesn’t know where he is. While Steve had the power to knock people off their feet, he didn’t use his gifted powers for anything bad. He wondered, sadly, if he was stuck here forever. Bucky, he thought to himself…. Would he ever see his oldest, dearest friend again either?]

[Qubine had been busy with his Deputy Guardian duties and other things on his mind, it took him nearly a week to notice that September was upon them. How time flies... Now he wonders if the question on his mind was common. Only one way to find out...]

Has anyone ever forgotten their own hatch...err...I mean, I believe they're known as "birthdays" to humans?

[Ever the conversationlist, is he not?]

[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?