reddosmod: (Default)
Deer Country Mod ([personal profile] reddosmod) wrote in [community profile] deercountry2022-01-08 12:48 am

Gain the weight of you then lose it

JANUARY 2022 EVENT
IMAGE DESCRIPTORS IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE

Prompt One
[Image One: Woman in an elaborate blue dress with high collar staring at camera while people dance in background.]
[Image Two: Woman in pink dress touching chest and smiling at camera while people dance in background.]

Prompt Two
[Image One: Explicit gif of snake shedding its skin and a new viperlike snake coming out of the old skin.]
[Image Two: Gif of eyes gazing at camera and right eye turning yellow.]

Prompt Three
[Image One: Image of rock snake with fire glowing in its mouth.]
[Image Two: Gif of a snake made entirely out of flames hissing.]

SNAKE DEN
WHEN: Evenings throughout January
WHERE: The Red, Cellar Door
CONTENT WARNINGS: Alcohol/Drugs, possible NSFW scenarios, forced honesty, mood altering substances.


Around Trench, Sleepers will find a gold-edged flyer pinned to most doors, lamps, and posted around stores and throughout the market. Some may even find the flyer pinned to their front door:

MADAM GENEROSITY INVITES YOU TO THE SNAKE DEN
Hello darling and dearest Sleepers! Do not let the cold dampen your spirit or weaken your hope. Do not allow our differences to divide us; do not let the frigid drive you to isolation; do not hurt your soul by forgetting one another. They say snakes cannot thrive in the cold, yet here I am, defying it, thriving despite it. You can too. We must persist. We shall persist. Not with violence and bloodshed, not with pollution and corruption, but with unity! With compassion and fun.

I invite you all to join me at The Red every odd evening of January! Welcome to the Snake Den! A little Talent Show I throw occasionally to remind Sleepers of their profound potential for greatness and awe! Come be flashy on stage or to support your friends. After the Talent Show is our famed Fashion Show. Do you have eccentric outfits you would like to show off? Now is truly your time to shine!

The evening will be filled with plenty of food and drink for all. We shall dance, we shall show off, we shall persist and defy corruption together. Let my lovely Night Walkers shine and keep you company for the evening. Find some new friends, have an illicit affair, or just come so you don't have to be alone for a night. You are all welcome...And don't worry, I've enchanted the Red so that none of your powers can cause any damage while inside the building. Feel free to really make a light show with your fire! It won't hurt anyone.

I so look forward to seeing all of you there.

With Love,
Madam Generosity
The Red has been elaborately decorated for the Snake Den spectacle. Enormous golden statues of snakes have been placed throughout. Golden lights glitter above. Servers carry about golden flutes of champagne, soda, and sparkling water. You can order other drinks at the bar. While the invite has gone out to Sleepers, there are some regular Trenchies who have come to show their support. To perform in the Talent Show portion, one simply needs to go backstage to prepare with the rest.

A female Trenchie named Dorothea seems to be directing the acts. People can perform multiple times. Talents performed can include music, comedy, dance routines, or little skits. After the Talent Show concludes, a Fashion Show will be put on, and everyone is encouraged to join. You can get your hair and make-up done elaborately backstage and find eccentric outfits to try on if you're not so happy with the one you showed up in.

Going to the Snake Den at this time will cause incredible stress relief. Even those who are typically shy or introverted will find themselves soothed at the Snake Den. Giant pillows have been thrown about so people can puddle in together and snuggle up. Private rooms have been created out of silks for some private conversations or interactions.

There must be something in the drinks or the snacks going around because it becomes easy to become a much more outgoing version of yourself at the party. It may increase friendliness or touchiness and relax people's usual reservations. Who knows? It might encourage you to go up on stage and show off a bit or talk to that handsome stranger who has been eying you the whole night. Regular intoxication from alcohol/drugs is possible as well which means some people might not need the additional encouragement.

Regular dancing occurs after the Fashion Shows with various musicians performing on stage to fill the night up with plenty of mood melodies. As the evening prolongs, the lights dim and things become quiet and soothing. Since paleblood magic is exceptionally strong this month with honesty, attendants of the party may find themselves being more open and honest about themselves. Hopefully, you don't confess anything too vulnerable about yourself...

FAQ:
1. Characters with mental abilities may be able to resist the honesty sway if they consciously realize it is happening.

2. Any talent can be performed on the stage.

3. The flyer is magically enchanted so that people who touch it will feel unusually excited to go to the Snake Den.
THE SHEDDING CEREMONY
WHEN: Begins in January - Effects may be permanent. Players choose when the effects wear off.
WHERE: Everywhere
CONTENT WARNINGS: Forced modification of body, possible themes of body dysmorphia, shedding/peeling skin, burning/eating dead skin, alternate versions of characters, possible genderswapping, possible alteration of personality/memories.


[A passage from Rituals and Reality; Chapter 2: The Shedding Ceremony. Found exclusively in Gaze:]

"Worshippers of Madam Generosity believed that the shedding of snakeskin was symbolic to the shedding of an old life and the acceptance of a new life. The skin left behind was a reminder of past trials and tribulations, and the skin you walk away with is evidence of all that you have learned and experienced. In ancient times, Sleepers would ritualistically select one of their own to sacrifice to Madam Generosity. Eventually, Sleepers would come to learn that Madam Generosity did not appreciate blood sacrifices. Due to her gentle nature, she encouraged Sleepers to pay tribute to her in other ways.

Thus came the Shedding Ceremony. Sleepers would rub away chapped skin and set it afire in a bowl. They would reflect on lives left behind and the new life they had been given in Trench. Over time, this created a powerful magical experience that persisted beyond the original ceremony. The Shedding Ceremony is both a ritual and an enchantment.

As January begins, Sleepers may find that their skin has become dry and brittle. The generous application of lotions and oils may soothe the skin, but neglected skin can begin to peel off. Although it is a painless experience, it can be rather gross to look at and a bit itchy. Then one day, you simply fall asleep and when you awaken, you are an entirely different version of yourself. You will find a nearly perfect replica of your old self in a shed skin nearby. Your new body may be stronger, faster, more powerful. Old scars may be healed, lost limps replaced...Or you might be an entirely new gender. Some have even experienced becoming a different species. Some awaken as an older or younger variation of themselves while others find that they have become an alternate version of themselves.

These effects have been known to last for a few days up to months at a time. In some scenarios, the effects have become permanent. Some believe it to be a curse while others believe it is a gift. It may happen multiple times and take a few sheds to return to your original body. It is believed that ingesting your old skin or burning it alleviates the changes and brings you back to your original body faster. Generous application of lotion and oils can prevent the Shedding Ceremony altogether for some - or at the very least, slow it down."

FAQ

1. Characters can avoid this prompt altogether via the application of lotion.

2. If you decide to permanently change your character in a big way (ie; changing their species/gender/age) then we do ask that you update your character on the taken page to reflect that they are now an Alternate Version of a character. This would open up the original character to be applicable to new players.

3. This can change blood types for those interested in trying on a new blood type. You can either temporarily change a blood type or permanently. If you permanently change a blood type, let us know on the Blood Type page and update your information on the taken page.

4. You can play out the transformation as explicitly or non-explicitly as you want. Maybe characters see the changes happening under their peeling skin or just wake up in their new body. The peeling does not need to be any more graphic than what you would typically see on dry skin.

5. You can alter a character's gender, species, age, blood type, or switch to a general alternate version of a character (ie; Coffee Shop AU, an AU of your character but with different powers, an AU of your character if they came from a different canon or timeline.) Please have fun with this and explore the possibilities for as long as you like!

Unsnakely
WHEN: All of Bone Season
WHERE: Anywhere outside
CONTENT WARNINGS: Possible injuries or death from burns/fire.


[A journal entry from the Wayward Watcher that can be found in the Archaic Archives reads:]

"Do not trust the naked snake trails of January. They exist to trick you into a sense of Madam Generosity's comfort. The Good Pthumerian leaves snow tracks in her wake, but the Unsnakely leaves melted trails of snow. This creature has spent centuries cloaking itself to rope in those who devotedly follow Madam Generosity. The kind people of Trench look to snakes as a trustworthy, compassionate symbol filled with good intention.

There are many ways to anticipate the Unsnakely's presence. Besides its melted trails (that eventually turn to ice in the cold), you may notice pockets of comfortable heat. While many believe greenery is a good sign, do not be fooled by the melted patches of grass you find. These are not symbols of an early spring. They are symbols of incoming destruction.

The Unsnakely is not of blood or soul; it is a blood curse of the earth, a product of Blood Pollution. It's a creature made out of rock, with no pulse, no soul, no mind. Molten lava pours through its body. It moves in and out of the earth without disturbing the surface, transforming from rock into small beasts or a snake the size of your home. It looks to spill blood to freshen its own magic and its choice of weapon is its size and the fire it breathes. A furious Unsnakely will light up in flames and can bring great destruction to its surroundings. People have lost their homes to the Unsnakely and of course, people have lost their lives.

The Unsnakely, no matter the size it takes, is as fast and lethal as a typical snake. It cannot truly die, as it is a curse of the earth, but it can be physically destroyed by immense blunt strength or coldblood abilities whether fire or ice. Typical ice abilities will not work against the snake - they must come from a coldblood source. Enchanted coldblood items will be effective against the Unsnakely.

The Unsnakely can spit fire like venom and boil the air around it. It can be difficult to get physically close enough to land a blow due to the suffocatingly hot temperature rolling off its body. It traditionally hunts in the streets and in the woods, by the beach and among the cliffs. Once someone has slain the beast, it returns to the earth where it rebuilds itself over a period of 2-3 days. It primarily hunts during Bone Season, preferring to use the cloak of Madam Generosity to its advantage.

Since this is not a traditional snake, it has no desire to "eat" anyone. It will simply roast you alive - which is arguably worse for some. Its fire burns hotter and brighter than regular fire, and it is a slow, agonizing death that has caused absolute madness in some. People have claimed to see strange visions in the smoke that pours off of the Unsnakely, causing distortion in battle. Do not inhale too much of the Unsnakely's smoke as it will cause intense vertigo. Remember: this is a creature of deception.

Lastly, it would be beneficial to know that the Unsnakely cannot hear or see. It responds to the vibration around it. Some who stay still may get the upper hand, but the creature can feel the vibrations of your heartbeat if your pulse is unusually elevated. Good luck, fellow Hunters. Treat burns by the Unsnakely with vileblood. I know it sounds mad, but the vileblood seems to attack whatever cursed heat comes with burns from the Unsnakely.

Take care of yourself,
- The Wayward Watcher"

FAQ
1. Characters who can manipulate earth can contort/stop/fight against the Unsnakely's natural body. It will take great control to fully control or dismantle the body.

2. Coldbloods with fire abilities can similarly control the fire of the Unsnakely with great control.
CODING
searingwing: (I can take it if you need to)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-12 08:42 pm (UTC)(link)
[He raise an eyebrow at that but nods once,] I have. I was one of the first to come ashore. Before that I was locked in the dream realm called Deerington.

I believe none have had to deal with pirates since the first of us found our way here.

[And likely not because the pirates were done with them. Not even close. He tucks that worry away. Name echoed. Glimpses of his face in the minds of others…that. His own face is thoughtful.] And I have been rather active since then.
firstroar: (ʟɪsᴛᴇɴᴇʀ)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-13 01:42 am (UTC)(link)
[Blue shakes his head gently at mention of pirates. he hadn't sensed them, either - not even when those ships ran aground not too long ago.]

You have made...many connections here, then? Made something of a life.
searingwing: (all of my excess)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-13 06:57 am (UTC)(link)
Yes, I have. [He doesn’t even need to think about it to be sure. He has made quite a few connections.] Some were already forged, just deepened.

Yourself? I imagine you’ve at least a few connections.
firstroar: (pic#5951992)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-13 10:17 pm (UTC)(link)
[with a small smile:] If I hadn't, I don't think...I'd have survived for so long.

Or rather...not as well. Flynn and Yuri...have taken great care of me.

[ah-- some recognition sparks.]

That's right...your name is in their minds, too. I see.
searingwing: (One more confession)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-15 06:24 pm (UTC)(link)
[Diluc nods as he closes his eyes. He feels comfortable. Like a cat in the sunlight he settles.]

They are both friends of mine. I think very fondly of both of them. I’m glad they’re helping you. I imagine you are helping them too.
firstroar: (ʜᴜsʜᴇᴅ)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-15 08:52 pm (UTC)(link)
[what he says is true: mixed in with the comfortable setting, the positive regard Diluc has for those two is palpable, and Blue is grateful for it.]

I hope so. It wouldn't do...relying on them...and not giving them anything in exchange.
searingwing: (I'm on another broken avenue)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-17 08:25 am (UTC)(link)
[That’s an interesting way to look at it. But it reminds him of Kaeya. How he said he would rather be useful to those he cares for. Diluc picks up his drink.]

Even just caring for each other is something. Especially here.
firstroar: (ɢᴜɪᴅᴇ)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-17 03:46 pm (UTC)(link)
[Blue smiles small, tilting his head a little as he peers at him.]

Would you...be satisfied with yourself, were it you? Only able to care, nothing more.
searingwing: (All my indecision)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-19 01:48 pm (UTC)(link)
[He takes a moment to really think about. The most terrible moments in his life all he can do was care. And with his father-] My apologies, I wasn’t considering…

[He falls silent. He was raised from the moment he opened his eyes to be a protector. To lead from the front. To push forward and break himself for the safety of others. The idea of only being able to care-] No. It would be a form of torture for me.
firstroar: (pic#6891970)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-19 06:13 pm (UTC)(link)
[the smile broadens a bit, brow creased in apology, and he finds he is reaching to put a comforting hand on him, but stops short.]

It's not something to fret about. Thank you...for understanding, though.

[he sets his hands in his lap.]

Being around you and the other young ones...makes me itch to do more. But it's not a bad feeling to have.
searingwing: (Too late to turn back)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-20 08:07 pm (UTC)(link)
[Young ones. He looks up, his mind sharpening and casting back through the words of others like that. How old- no. It isn’t his business. He nods once and honesty flows out.] …any time you wish to do more you can always count on me to help. I will offer what knowledge I have.

[He glances at Dellingr who rumbles with agreement. Amusement dances in his eyes.] I come with a flyer who likes to be useful too.
firstroar: (ᴘᴇᴀᴄᴇ)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-21 01:01 am (UTC)(link)
[Blue gives the dragon a longer, more thoughtful look.]

That's very kind... Do you make this offer to many? It would keep you...quite busy, I'd think.
searingwing: (pic#14902144)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-21 11:18 pm (UTC)(link)
I prefer to stay busy. It works out. [Dellingr spreads his wings slightly and resettles not unlike a scaled cat finding the right spot. Diluc adds, without even thinking about it.] I was raised to serve the people in whatever capacity I can. I feel strange when I'm idle.
firstroar: (ʀᴇsᴏɴᴀᴛɪɴɢ)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-22 01:29 am (UTC)(link)
[Blue looks back to Diluc, giving that answer some thought.]

What do you do...for yourself?
searingwing: (I'll hide in)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-22 05:04 pm (UTC)(link)
[He opens his mouth to answer and shuts it. He doesn’t have an answer. Except that honesty tugs at him and his lips move.] Be with Kaeya.

[Letting himself have what he has always wanted. What Kaeya has wanted too, that’s for him. His tavern is part of serving the public. But whatever is between him and that knight.] …I’m learning how to do things for myself.
firstroar: (pic#5951994)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-22 05:53 pm (UTC)(link)
[the weight of that admission isn't lost on Blue. he smiles gently.]

It...takes some time, doesn't it. Feeling right with such things.

I'm still learning, too.
searingwing: (pic#14902157)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-22 10:04 pm (UTC)(link)
It's not something I ever thought of. [After a moment he adds,] It's very difficult. It feels selfish when I have the power to keep others safe.

[He should be doing anything he can. Cutting through evil. Taking down whatever forces seek to do harm. But, he sighs.] I feel it will take a lifetime to tell myself it's okay.
firstroar: (ᴘᴇᴀᴄᴇ)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-23 09:09 pm (UTC)(link)
[Blue nods gently, understanding.]

It's a worthy effort, I think. Because...it will inspire those you help...to be kinder to themselves as well. A kind action yielding other kind actions...
searingwing: (pic#14902145)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-26 09:53 pm (UTC)(link)
[Again he pauses, considering the point being raised. His own recent revelation about his self-destructive path shines clearly like a flame in the darkness.]

...and another way to help others help themselves. I've never thought of any of this in this manner. Here it could very well save others from corruption and beasthood.
firstroar: (pic#6892313)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-26 10:55 pm (UTC)(link)
True enough. [with amusement in his voice:] In that way...selfish efforts of yours...will still be of benefit to others if you truly desire it. The things you experience, the lessons learned... We are all of us still learning here, after all.
searingwing: (discretion's not what I need to sell)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-28 03:24 pm (UTC)(link)
[He snorts and says with a trace of amusement in his own voice,] We are. And terrible as this place may be, it certainly feels like an instructor sometimes.

And I have been teaching others how to use magic. Teaching other things might not be so bad.
firstroar: (pic#6892314)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-29 03:05 am (UTC)(link)
[Blue's head tilts a little, expression curious.] Does it please you to do so? Teaching others this way.
searingwing: (pic#14902135)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-01-30 11:02 pm (UTC)(link)
[He thinks about it. What does it boil down? He takes a breath and is almost surprised by what he finds.] Yes.

Because I can help them and give them the tools to make whatever journey they intend to take.
firstroar: (ᴀɴᴄɪᴇɴᴛ)

[personal profile] firstroar 2022-01-31 02:18 am (UTC)(link)
[he smiles a little again, nodding.]

Fulfilling for you...and others. I don't think it is a bad thing. I hope you can find satisfaction in such things...for some time. Though... [his expression sobers.] Do take care...and be vigilant for the things here...that work hard to uproot any comforts.

It happens...so much.
searingwing: (I'll wreck this if I have to)

[personal profile] searingwing 2022-02-01 03:42 pm (UTC)(link)
It does. [He dips his drink, savoring the taste. Some part of him notes the ingredients he can taste. They’re shuffled into the vast catalogue of recipes in his head.]

That isn’t any different from the dream realm. But we will endure. Living people are stronger than they appear.

I stay watchful and observe. That’s how I was raised and I couldn’t set it aside even if I tried.

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