[After the disaster involving false ghosts and true prisoners, Ted had much anxiety and little direction. An aimless, nagging inclination to do something pulled at his heart. Despite the loss of one dearly beloved, he found his head clearer. Or at least, more focused, more willful about his role in the world and how to fulfill it. Despite the Genessia's slack, he felt now, more than ever, he must redouble his efforts and unravel every mystery, and save every soul. And he had an idea of who might help.

Coincidentally, it was this day on the dot that he'd spoke to her last. Goodness, were they really so antisocial that talk was a yearly occurrence? Well, better late than never. What a mercenary talk it would be, too. What a scoundrel he is to strike up meeting largely because he wanted something. Well, he's young. If she's old, she'll understand the disparity. He rang her up.]

Good afternoon, Satori. Long time no see, eh? I've a question, and if I get my preferred answer, an action, to pose to you, if you're willing.

[Darc is filming from his campsite, the crackle of his cooking fire in the background. Those who know him will notice that he's looking a little healthier since last they saw him. He's been eating better, at least.]

Hello. This is Darc. I haven't used the communicator much in a while, so...

[Right, socializing isn't one of his strong suits. Get to the point. He takes a deep breath to collect himself.]

I have a question about magic. I know people can use it here, but what I want to know is how. My people, the Deimos, could use magic in my own world. But only by drawing power from spirit stones. They were mined from the earth, or found by killing monsters.

However, when my friends and I saved the world from evil, all spirit stones lost their power. There's no magic for us anymore. Besides that, I haven't found any spirit stones in Genessia.

How does magic work for you and your world?

[Just an ordinary young woman on the comm, chilling out by the park if her background is any indication.]

This will seem like a weird subject. Do any of you look back on something less than ideal, knowing full well you can change it, but hesitate on doing so? Do you ever feel like you're just punishing yourself somehow, for no apparent reason?

Who: Satori and YOU
What: Cooking the angriest meals in the calmest ways.
Where: Chireiden. AKA That one creepy subarch that’s literally hell
When: Late June, crack of dawn.
Warnings: Excessive snark, extreme cute, being stared at.

Bright and early in the morning, Satori's video feed switches on. The camera focuses in on one of those posable Satori action figures, this time with its arms and hands crossed as if holding a pair of weapons, its expression downright menacingly determined as it stares down a cracked eggshell. Its 'weapons' of choice are a miniature whisk and frying pan. Eventually, Satori's third eye pans into the frame and blinks a couple times before the camera pans up to focus on the mind reader in question..

( Now, people of Genessia, witness the breakfast that will leave you sleepless!” )

[OOC: Feel free to react or call Satori back for more cooking tips.]

( 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. )

"...Brrawk~! I squeal like a little girl when I see kittens for the first time~!"

The feed switches on in the early hours of the morning. A shrill voice can be heard in mockery of Satori's own, chattering in the background. Satori looks thoroughly worn out. A loud and rather mischevious parrot, which happens to be a riotous blend of colour, peers at the camera as if it knows very well what it's doing.

The mistress of the house mumbles... "Good grief...as much as I'm fond of animals, I'm starting to regret this one."

"Lots of regrets! Like wanting friends~!" The parrot replies... "Like how I regret letting my sister get in trouble all the time~! I blame myself, even now~!"

"...Oh, now you've certainly done it."

...And once more it screeches... "I'm not as scary as I act, isn't that right~? But I kill humans in cold blood when I'm hungry~! And enjoy it~! Brawk~!"

Satori's expression is all too tired from all of this as she wanders over, still in her bedclothes, and pat the parrot on the head, giving it a treat. For a blessed moment, it shuts up. However, it's thrown out a ton of emotional baggage she'd confessed to it. Big mistake, as it seems to want to compulsively announce it.

"Is anyone else dealing with this sort of thing? I'm starting to get a tad exasperated...I'm getting tired of it airing my dirty laundry."

In the forest, a chill started to blow through the trees and slowly making its way towards the city. The chill only getting colder and colder as the day ran on until eventually, it was cold enough that ice started to form along the ground seeping out from the forest, slowly creeping along the ground and up the walls.

As soon as the ice started to form howling along with other noises one can only guess as to what animal it came from started to echo. Within hours the city soon found itself with ice and icy like creatures roaming the streets.

What is going on? Where did the ice come from? The only way to know is to figure it out.

[OOC: I will be tagging in depending on what people do to either give hints if it seems to be going that way or anything else.]

[The view might yaw around slightly, showing the interior of the entrance to the Bay, before it focuses on a handsome fellow with a 500 watr grin and blue eyes like the heart of a heart of a star.]

You'd think someone who's used as many different communication gadgets over so many ages would figure out a new one easily. [Said playfully, even teasingly.]

Hello there, good people of Genessia! Captain Jack Harkness, at yer service, though I've a few questions to ask as I sally forth: Most importantly, does anyone know if man who calls himself the Doctor has been hanging his coat here?

And less importantly, what's the best place to meet folks for a few drinks and maybe a bit more? [Said with his most charming smile.]

Who: Namur and Open
What: Catchall logs!
When: All through Feb and March
Where: Anywhere
Warnings: Swearing, being a bad person, awful innuendo, etc

This is literally just what it says on the tin.  Gonna make toplevels for stuff as it comes along, with a date noted in the subject lines.

Who: Satori and YOU.
When: (Backdated to) February 12th.
Where: Chireiden, the usual kitchen.
What: Satorin dutifully prepares chocolates in her typical fashion: snarkily.
WARNINGS: Excessive snark, eyeball monsters and risk of diabetes.

The scene opens, as in similar cooking-related streams by Satori, in the kitchens of Chireiden. It seems Satori's bedecked herself out in a red apron emblazoned with large red stereotypical hearts - all of which have a galaxy of eyes staring ominously out of the centre of them, staring at the unlucky viewers and eachother.

There's a Satori action figure posed nearby. It's holding an egg aloft, as if holding it out like a sacrifice to its larger and more dour likeness. Satori takes the egg into her hands

"It's that time of year, friends, beloved and...less loved of the world. The day, apparently, where 'love' is valued and celebrated and those who aren't as lucky in love are chastised by others for their lack of social interaction. Thankfully, I've avoided such a grisly fate of being the 'odd one out' or 'third wheel', so I'm in the particularly peculiar mood to spread cheer the only way I know how..."

( If you don't wish your candies to spill as easily as your fragile emotions... )

 As the new Guardian of Everglade, allow me to congratulate the other winners. Now then, I will require deputies. First, I'm sure Sakuya would be happy to come work for me since Dante so kindly let her come work for me, and second, I plan on hiring more deputies.

As such, I will be holding interviews for the position, or positions, should anyone else be interested. Ability to make good tea is very welcome, encouraged, even, but not necessary.

Now, do keep in mind that I shall be speaking with our Mayor regarding the Bounty Licence scheme I plan on enacting, among other things. Like undead rights, for instance.

One last thing: Salary is negotiable, within reason.

Now then, on with 2019. Let us make this year a good one.

Who: 10th Doctor and those invited
What: Christmas Party
When: 12/25
Where: Tardis (in Memorial Park in Genessia)
Warnings:
Notes:

( Eat, drink and be merry )

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: Satori and EVERYONE
What: Halloween Event post, Satori has a hard time adapting.
When: Backdated Oct. 19th

[Prelude]

The first thing that Satori found when she awoke was gnawing hunger. Not for flesh and fear, but just...sustenance. She stumbles into the kitchen, her body feeling much weaker, and heavier. Normally, her body would be telling her if she was hungry much later than this. Why, then...?

The second thing Satori noticed was silence. Silence from outside, silence from her pets. Just silence. That wasn't right at all. She picks up a very disgruntled Murkrow from its perch and stares at it for a time. It just ends up staring back at her, nonplussed, as if to say 'I didn't do it'.

She immediately goes to her vidphone...

[Video]

"...How...how do you manage this! Everything feels so slow and so stiff compared to before."

It's Satori. This time, sans third eye. Otherwise, she looks exactly the same.

"For some reason, I've awoke today to find my powers are gone and I'm a...human. It's so quiet. I'm unnerved and terrified to hear just my own thoughts, but at the same time it's far too quiet. The silence bothers me..."

She grumbles to herself. It seems she's looking for something to eat...

"Are there any tips you humans can give me about...being human? I have no idea how I'm to put such a thing but I'm starting to pity humanity a little more for having such sluggish and weak constitutions."

[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...]

Who: Satori and YOU
What: Cooking with Eyeball Monsters, ROUND THREE.
Where: Chireiden
When: 10/17
Warnings: Excessively spooky dour youkai, snark and cute sisters being even cuter.

( Festive cooking tips to ameliorate the most frightening of questionable life choices. )

[The video feed turns on to reveal a pink-haired woman who may be familiar to some from her previous stay in Genessia. Yuyuko is seated in a booth in what seems to be a fast-food restaurant, with a very flustered server bringing tray after tray of burgers, chicken nuggets, and fries to Yuyuko's table.

There's a blink after she waves the poor worker off, before returning to her device, apparently having forgotten about it for a moment.]

Oh! Hello again, Genessia. It has been a while, hasn't it?

[She takes a french fry and nibbles on it before resuming.]

Ah, I remember this time when I was here before. Halloween, was it? Where everyone dresses up to be spooky and there's lots of candy? A very wonderful holiday indeed.

[Yuyuko glances away again, beckoning the poor server over once more.]

May I get fifteen of those little apple pies too?

[And with that, she accidentally bumps into the device with her elbow as she reaches for a burger.]

[Seclusion's not a good fit for Ted. If it keeps up, he's worried he'll withdraw to the point of disappearance, as it seemed so many others had. Better make at least the occasional effort at socializing, and what better than geeking out about one of his favorite subjects? It starts with a single image before his usual discursion.]
"Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it." Another good epigram springs to mind: "Whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased, and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted." Here, in the sixteenth Trump, one can see that terrible topsy-turvydom of Heaven.

Of all of the Major Arcana it's certainly the most dramatic. The lightning, the flames, the ruin, the dual plunging figures! Goodness, a man could faint to look at it. The meaning looks very obvious too, doesn't it? The astonishing suddenness of catastrophe. But why? What deed merited decisive divine fire? 

Well, one much like the Tower of Babel. If you haven't heard that story, it goes something like this: In ages past, men all spoke the same language, yet were very puffed up. They thought they might collaborate and build their way into Heaven. So proud and vulgar, God couldn't help but to blast their edifice to bits, and confuse the languages of men for good measure so they wouldn't repeat that mistake. In Genessia, of course, our languages have been reconciled, but I fear the world still wants for humility. It would surprise me not at all if our current circumstance is the result of a lot of clever, powerful people who got it into their heads that their works were a match for heaven. Heaven tested their works, and...heh, well, the latter tends to win those comparisons. Brutally.

And yet...is it strange, is it morbid to look at this and be very happy? All the Trumps communicate love, in their way. Even The Devil, if you're charitable enough. But love is a wild thing; I've heard legends that if one were to ever look on a countenance full of love, it would seem, to earthly minds, indistinguishable from hatred. It would look that ferocious. Perhaps it's down to preference. Some take pleasure in meticulously building complicated arrangements of dominoes or houses of cards. Other, simpler minds like myself, rather like knocking them down better. Doubtless, if one spent a long time building something and then lived in it, having its top blown off in a fit of pious pique would be inconvenient.

Even so, doesn't it look as though love is seen here, at its most severe? It's as though the card communicates that no matter how elaborate or stony one's artificiality, they shall not be allowed to go on forever. There is a limit, and it comes good and hard. Much to our chagrin; much to our charity.

I'm interested in other voices than my own, believe it or not. Well, how does number sixteen strike you?

 I propose that we use the non-pendent bearers as a food source.

[This, and other unhelpful suggestions, courtesy of the strange demon girl on your screen.

She seems quite unapologetic about her suggestion. Heck, it's hard to read any emotions on her.]

Their lives are limited strictly to this world, and therefore have no value in the grand scheme of things. It will be easy to eliminate any trace of their existence. If any of their non-pendent bearing friends miss them, I will eat their memories. There will be no reason for sadness. Only rejoicing, as this will solve the issue of eating in Everglade.

[She begins clapping dryly to celebrate this leap of ?logic?]

[Voice]

Instead of being wisp away to an afterlife, not only I was kidnapped, our captors sounds so boring. Are they actual spirits? Has anyone yet met them? Wouldn't you call this a crime?

[The woman sounded bemused, a sighed escaped at the last sentence, the thought of this bore her.]

Bad little spirits, someone should teach them a lesson.

They say you live once so don't regret it, but this life... is questionable. I don't particularly have a feel in this. Anyway, I suppose I'll play along with this charade and the life given to me.

Though... I wonder. [Tap, tap.] Fill my curiosity residence of Genessia, what are your thoughts on criminals from other worlds arriving here as well? Are their slates clean upon arrival? Can you simply forgive what they they've done in their previous world and and let them live on as if it's nothing? Your enemy as your neighbor?

Hmm.. [She's probably smiling over in her end.] And how is that fairing? And most importantly, how are criminals handled here?