ǣfenglōm (main comm)

Name: Asra
Date: Octeuril 25th
Format: Voice

[Asra sounds tired, and there's a buzz of noise in the background that sounds like the distant sounds of the city, the cry of gulls, and the roll of waves.]

What do people do when those they've bonded with are gone?

Name: Aziraphale
Date: Octeuril 24th
Format: Voice

[Aziraphale has practiced... A Lot before actually making this post, so the camera is only a little bit shaky instead of the complete and messy failure that would be expected of him. It's not that he can't learn how to use new technologies! He just would rather not have to when older technologies suit him just fine.

Apparently, he's realized there really isn't another way to go in this place. Considering he has a small collection of discarded gifted smartphones that he's never used back home, that is no small feat.]

So, I've been- that is to say-

[...Once an awkward angel, always an awkward angel. But also a fairly determined, stubborn one, so:]

I've been thinking I'd like to open a bookshop in this place. I had one back home, you see, curated the books for centuries- but I can't just sit around and mope about it, can I? So I figured I could start my own collection here.

[If it sounds like he's talking about a private collection instead of what's supposed to be a bookshop it's because he kind of is.]

But then I thought- or rather, it was suggested to me- that perhaps some sort of library where people could happily peruse the books would be better. And then I started thinking about things people could do while they read the books, and I figured- who doesn't enjoy a cup of tea and a nice pastry?

[A bright smile! And the little wiggle of happiness that Aziraphale always does when he's talking about his favorite foods.]

But even though I can make a nice cup of tea, thanks to years of practice... I'm no baker! And I'm a bit messy in the kitchen, so that's out of the question. So I was wondering if anyone would like to collaborate in this endeavor? Perhaps you've got some books you've got no use for anymore, or experience shelving them, or know how to bake?

Any help would be welcome, really. [He's not used to taking such big risks without miracles to back him up.]

Name: Monika
Date: Octeuril 18
Format: Text

Isn't it funny how you can spend weeks, months, and maybe even longer in trying to be a better person.

Only for a couple of bad days to make it feel like you lost most of your progress?

Name: Yuya Sakaki
Date: Oct. 28
Format: Text

how many monsters still need a witch to bond with?

[Help.]

Name: Rich Goranski
Date: Backdated to Oct 14
Format: Video for initial post; various in comments

[Without so much as an introduction, a video plays. It's a little shaky with the recorder's nerves, and occasionally, a long talon partly covers the view of the scene, but it still shows what it needs to quite clearly.

Eventually, even with the struggle still continuing, the camera is turned away from the action, towards Rich. He has to hope what he just got will be enough to get the Coven to actually believe him this time, but right now, he doesn't have time to wait around. Direct action is needed, so he pings the friends he trusted: Michael Mell, Myr, and Niles. The message is still sent to everyone, however, so everyone can view the video and the panic in Rich's eyes when the camera is turned back to him.]

The SQUIP has lost it. It's going full villain again and I need back up. Meet me near the inn, I think it's trying to take Heere there.

[Without an explanation of what entails the SQUIP going full villain or who 'Heere' may be, he continues.]

Everyone else, please stay safe and-[He's cut off by something happening off screen, which makes him swear and stuff his watch into his pocket. There's about a minute more of muffled yelling and darkness before the recording eventually ends.]

~*~

[Hours later, there's another video tacked on to the earlier one, once the mist has finally started to fade away. Rich is back inside, his changes from before calming down enough that he isn't at risk of burning down Justine's whole cottage. He looks tired and worn, a few nasty scrapes on his face, but... there is a sort of relief in his expression, some sort of certainty that, no matter what happens next, he did what was right.]

Hey everyone. Sorry about that... I know I promised to be less of a downer the next time I posted on here, but... shit happens.

I'm just letting everyone know the SQUIP is knocked out. It had been using magic to charm and mind control several people, including someone I was bonded to, Justine, and a friend from home, Jeremy Heere.

Two of the people it was Bonded with, Linden Tailor and Connor, are also unconscious... guess some sort of trauma went through the connection when we stopped it. Since it was actively using mind control magic, I used Mountain Dew Red to deactivate... the part of it that was still a supercomputer, I guess. It should recover fine, and while it's passed out, I'm going to bring the recording to the Coven so they can see I wasn't lying when I told them what it did in my world.

If any of you were being controlled by it, let me know. It got to quite a few people when I saw it, but its powers should have worn off by now. It can be... a little traumatic, though, so my door's open if you wanna talk. Hopefully now that the SQUIP was... de-SQUIPped, somehow, this shouldn't happen again.

[With another tired wave, Rich signs off. He'd love to stay and chat but... he's pretty sure his roommates are still going to need a little more help in the fallout.]

((Everyone is free to respond! Rich will respond when he's done dealing with his roomies, who are likely either a) dealing with mind control withdrawal or b) having panic attacks over the SQUIP. Other players on Team Anti-Bastard Computer Man will also be responding a few hours after the events of the battle, providing information on what went down and vouching that yes, Shit Was Bad.))

Name: Prompto Argentum
Date: 10/10
Format: Text followed by Video

[It's not the fanciest thing the world, but Prompto put a lot of work into this ad for the watches so he's still proud of it. You might have seen the fancier, paper posters going up earlier this week.

In big letters:]

Open Today!

Insomniac Delivery hopes to encourage other Mirrorbound entrepreneurs by catering to them and their needs. For a reasonable fee, Insomniac Delivery promises to get your goods and messages wherever they need to be in the city before closing time!

Argentum Photos brings the wonders of magical digital technology to Aefenglom! For posters, memories, or just for fun, Argentum Photos will work with you to make sure every shot is perfect.

[And now it's a video post and if you know Prompto, you'll realize he's got glasses on now. Ran out of contacts. But he's out with Prim, who's actually wearing a flower crown. And is trying to knock it off her head for a snack.]

Ta-daaaa! Yeah, so surprise, guess who's absolutely crazy and opening two businesses? Deliveries run Tuesday through Friday, but if you something delivered Monday or over the weekend I'll do it for extra, and photos are Saturday and Sunday but if something happens I'll try to work with you.

[He reaches up to keep Primula from knocking her crown off.]

Anyway, if anyone needs me or Prim here to deliver something, you know where to find me! Same for photos, though obviously Prim won't be helping with those.

[A chuckle, a wave, and then a noise of dismay as Primula takes Prompto reaching over to turn the feed off as a sign to eat the crown.]

Prim why--

Name: Ursula Callistis
Date: Octeuril 3
Format: text

Hello, everyone! I'll try to make this brief, as typing on these things can be a bit of a pain. [ but god help her if she did anything that put her face out there to more people than she was comfortable with... ]

My name is Ursula Callistis, and back home I was a teacher. Now as I'm sure you've all noticed, or at least heard, refugees from Dorchacht have come into this city. Some of you have been volunteering to build their shelters, but I had noticed there was an un-assigned building, and I've sort of taken it over as a space for them, but not as living space.

You see, a lot of the refugees are kids. Orphans, even. And I am going to convert that space into a classroom. The Coven has already agreed to help me with supplies and costs, so there's no worries there, but while I am an experienced educator, I'm still only one woman.

So! That's where you all come in! I'm looking for some volunteers to help take up some of the class schedule. Just let me know if you have any experience, what basic subjects you're willing to teach, and we can go from there!

And, just so it's clear, I appreciate any help at all, even if you're not taking on a class subject. These kids are really depending on us. So. Thank you.

Name: Caren Ortensia
Date: Octeuril 2
Format: Video

I understand that there are new people that are among us. To that, I must say: welcome.

[She pulls the watch back from her face. Before, one could see her face; pulling back now...one could see she's not entirely human, least from the wings curled around her form. They twitch every so often as she speaks, as if trying to make herself comfortable.]

It's going to be an interesting time while you're with us. While we may come from different worlds and different times-and indeed, states of life-we're now comrades in this place. Hence, I'd like to make a few offers-for a fee of course.

[She holds up a hand. They appear to be clawed, but hey-at least they're the length of normal finger nails!]

I happen to live in a mansion and can offer beds and food. Room and board if you will. If new comers, or those who desire someone to make your food, I will be happy to accommodate you. This can be an exchange of monies, goods, or services.

I may also be able to teach skills in cleaning and cooking, including pizza if you so desire. Lastly...

[She brings up something carefully from her lap. It's...a hoodie?]

Animal earred hoodies may be made on commission, if you so desire. For other mending and commissions, you can find me at the Knit Wit.

Please feel free to ask questions here, or contact me via my inbox.

Name: Ignis Scientia
Date: Septeril 15
Format: Video

[A good-looking gentleman's face appears, and while it's a relatively placid and almost cheerful expression that he makes, the incredibly observant might deduce that he's a bit worn thin. Still, onward to business.]

Good afternoon, fellow residents. A few notes, as I've recently been out of commission, much to the polite concern of several of you. I'll try to be as brief as possible. For those of you who don't know me, I am Ignis Scientia, a Witch by assignment, a chamberlain by trade, and a chef by choice.

First, on the matter of the current political and social climate, and a delicate subject. I'm interested in hearing about others' experiences with the natives of Aefenglom. The city seems ill at ease, and while I believe that can be alleviated with time and patience, it's essential to document what's happening in the here and now. Those of you who have Monster traits are of particular interest to me, and your anecdotal information will help me paint a clearer picture of the state of things for our hosts. I plan to address them directly when the envoys return from Dorchacht.

Second, a personal request: I'm feeling rusty on some of my combat skills, despite my best efforts. If you're a weapon-wielding sort and want some good, vigorous training time with a skilled combatant, I'll gladly ask you to join me. If anyone has recommendations for a sturdy and affordable polearm, I'm looking for one.

And lastly, the Witches' Study Group will resume thrice-weekly meetings when all parties return from Dorchacht. I'll be sure to make another announcement then, but as I've been informed there were new arrivals, I thought it prudent to remind those who are here.

I wish you all a pleasant remainder of your day.

[Business done! Ignis offers a slight smile before ending the broadcast.]

Name: Kylo Ren
Date: Early Septeril
Format: Text

Notes: Kylo puts out feelers for potentially crafting daylight jewelry.

Name: Han Solo
Date: Early Septeril
Format: Text
Note: This message is so very locked from Qi’ra.

Uh, I suppose anyone can weigh in, but especially people who have gone though bonding with someone else:

What was the ceremony like? Did you do anything special for the person you were bonding with? If you didn’t, why not?

Who: Hank, you, and the menagerie that is in his housue
When: September 6th
Where: Hank and Connor's house (and Sumo's)
What: Hank celebrates his 'birthday' by trying to enjoy peace and quiet, does not get peace and quiet
Warnings: Hank is made up of 80% alcohol and 20% swears

( text! )

Name: Justine
Date: September 3rd (-ish)
Format: Video

[The screen flickers to life as Justine finally resolves to reach out to this heartbreaking world of magic with a message of loss.

Her features are paler than usual, gaunt and stressed from a lack of food and sleep, but her face is no less lovely for it. She's laying on her side with long silky stands of black hair fanning around her cheeks. Her shoulders are bare and it's unclear if she's wearing anything at all.

Dark Hazel eyes watch the screen in a moment of silence before she finally finds her voice.]

For those who knew him, Wizard Harry Dresden is gone. Home, with any luck, but likely not to return.

[Her voice is as soft, sweet and delicate as her features.

It's obvious to all that Justine is not taking the lose well.

There is a gentle scuffle near her and then the video ends.]

Name: Rich Goranski
Date: September 2
Format: Video

[The face that fills the screen is notable for a lot of reasons. For those who haven't met Rich, the harsh red scars covering his face, neck, and shoulders are certainly different. Scales are starting to pepper the skin like freckles, but it still doesn't do much to hide the damage. Nor does it distract from how emotional Rich looks. As much as he tries to keep his expression even, there's tension in his jaw, a slight furrow in his brow, and his eyes look slightly red.

He offers a weak smile and a wave to the camera, before taking a deep breath in and out. Apparently this is going to be difficult for him.]

Hey everyone. If you don't know me, I'm Rich Goranski. I got here last month, so... yeah. Anyways, I'm not here to break the ice or anything. I... need to tell everyone about some stuff, and I've been kind of meaning to do this for days and I just didn't know how. Anyways. I just wanted to warn you.

There's this guy you might have met. Looks like some handsome Japanese model, and he's got two different coloured eyes? I can send a picture if you don't know what I'm talking about. He's called the SQUIP. Or well, I don't know if that's what it calls itself here. It fucking introduced itself as Gregward to me, but... I think that's because we have a history. We're from the same place, and if what he did to me and my friends is any indication, he's probably going to really hurt someone here. He's already got his claws in some people and I just... don't want anyone else to go through that.

[He takes a moment to nibble on his lip and then look back at the camera, as if he's found some new source of bravery.]

( Cut for length; content warnings for abuse, mention of dead parents, self-harm through burning )

Name: Justine
Date: July 9th
Format: Video

[Justine appears on the network with a pristine white scarf circling her throat and a pinky rosy hue brushing the tip of her nose. Her dark eyes are lovely and those who look close enough might see a brilliant dark emerald green circling her iris. Snow falls around her, thick fluffy flurries catching in her dark lashes. Her midnight hair is covered by a matching hat that's been woven with runes that Justine has yet to perfect.

She hadn't expected snow when she'd been feeling the onset of summer only a week or so before.]

Hello. [Her voice is soft and delicately sweet.] I would like to offer handmade scarfs and hats to those who need them. Mitten as well. None-cursed. I promise. [She has already had an awkward moment with an enchanted scarfs.] For purchase or borrowing.

Please let me know if you would like any. I can try and accommodate for claws and hooves as well.

( To close cr. )

Name: Ignis Scientia
Date: July 3
Format: Voice

Good morning. My name is Ignis Scientia; I've been designated a Witch here, for the purposes of magical classification.

What I'm looking for, before things get much further along here for me, is something of a study partner or group. I've been primarily focused on element-related magic, such as fire, ice, etc, particularly in the field of Enchantment and, recently, Evocation. I've an interest in Abjuration, and of course more universal spells of various low- to mid-level varieties. Eventually, I'd expect to be well-rounded in multiple areas.

If you're willing to spend time outside of the usual Coven classes working on these skills, please contact me. I'm particularly intrigued by those who've experimented with runes, as well as those applying magic to clothing, weaponry, or other objects. In addition, I'd be curious to hear from those who had different sorts of magic in your home world, and how you're applying that knowledge here.

Whether these meetings take a more academically-minded format or find better exercise in the form of something like sparring, I'm keen to do as much as I can.

Thank you for your time, and have a pleasant day.

Name: Connor
Date: July 1st
Format: Video

[The video focuses on Connor, who is currently condemned to never move from the couch again because he has a St Bernard in his lap. The dog huffs gently as Connor places a hand on his head, and starts to scratch behind his ears.]

I was just wondering if anyone here could teach me a song they know from home. It can be any song, but I promised someone that I would learn one for her. And as I'm not going to be moving any time soon, it seemed to me that now would be the best time. Isn't that right, Sumo?

[He gets absolutely no acknowledgement from the dog.]

Don't worry, I would only have to hear it once. I have a very good memory.

[And maybe people could use a little distraction from whatever that dream was.]

Name: Diarmuid Ua Duibhne
Date: 6/20
Format: text

[This is such a sensitive issue that Diarmuid's gone to the trouble of changing his user name from "Lancer" to the less conspicuous but creatively bankrupt "Question". Whether or not he's still identifiable through some other means is a mystery to him but he's willing to take that chance to find the answers to something that's begun to weigh on his mind as of late.]

Is Bonding with someone without your other Bonded partner or partners knowing the equivalent of being unfaithful? I understand that it can be separate from a romantic relationship but it's just as emotionally involved, is it not?

[The voice that echoes through the device is sweet and feminine. The topic of her call is the fresh start that has been forced onto her. It should be a good thing, she has a chance to live a new life here, but Justine still isn't sure how she feels about this world, the parliament or the Coven.]

Hello. I have met some of you but I know that there are many of you who I have yet to come across. My name is Justine. I am not a fighter, like most of the people brought here, but I hope to sell the skills I do have. I was a caretaker in my previous life. I can cook, clean and fix minor tears in fabric.

I can also crotchet and I'd be happy to take commissions to those who wish to get a head start on winter. [Ignore the fact that it's spring.]

If anyone is interested in my services, please contact me.

If money isn't an option, I would also be interesting in trading. I would like to learn to fight but if nothing else we can come to some sort of arrangement. I am a witch and once I perfect my potion making, I hope to sell those as well.

Thank you for your time.

Name: Yako Katsuragi (un: katsuragi)
Date: May 25-ish
Format: Video

[ The young woman on the watch gives the camera a small smile, though her expression is also a touch uncharacteristically serious for those who’ve met her before. ]

First of all, for anyone who was badly affected by the full moons, I hope you’re feeling better now. If you need any medical attention or want to learn how to help keep others from going feral when you’re not Bonded to them, you should ask the Coven.

[ PSA done, she clears her throat, brushing her hair away from her face. ]

There’s something else I’d like to share. When we first came here, some people mentioned having a dream about being in a banquet in a forest. I had the same dream, too. I don’t know how much other people recall, but one of the the things I remember hearing while I was in it was the name of the place: Dewaint.

Anyway, I did a little looking into it, and it seems like I’ve found it. Or at least, um, something used to have that name.

[ That’s her cue to move, turning the watch to face ... a map. For those who’ve already seen a map of Geardagas, it will look pretty familiar, but it’s large — taking up most of a wall, and Yako has to take a few steps back to take it in its entirety — and it’s clearly old, preserved from being tampered with by a layer of glass. Yako continues speaking as she steps back in closer, panning her camera slowly as she points out areas of interest. ]

The librarians said this map is about five hundred years old. This is where Aefenglom is today, near the coast. And where Dewaint Forest was is...

[ She focuses on the dark spot towards the center of the map, right by the river (since she’s a little short, this takes a lot of standing on her toes, so the video goes a little wobbly before it straightens). The inscription scrawled over it bears a script similar to what might be seen in places around the Coven — and on the protection charms that were offered in the bonfire ceremony when they first arrived. Though the script might resemble Irish Ogden runes in form, for those who recognize such things, it’s clearly a different language. ]

There -- in the center of what The Wilde covers today.

[ Yako pauses, letting the camera linger. ]

To be honest, I’m not sure what this all means. I haven’t been able to find out much else about it, though some books said something about leylines passing through it and called it the heart of Geardagas. [ Although it’s a heart that most people seem to have forgotten. ] All I know is that it doesn't feel like a coincidence.

[ Spiel done, Yako turns the view back to herself. ]

I'm still trying to see what I can learn, but this is what I have right now. I thought other people might find this interesting too. I asked some people about this already, but if you have access to Parliament Records, the librarians and Miss Nessie think they might have more. So if you would like to help with that or with looking through some more books and papers, please let me know! If you’ve found anything related, I'd like to hear about it too.