ǣfenglōm (main comm)

Name: Alayne
Date: 22/7
Format: video

[ there's a moment - a few, really - of fumbling, arranging; signs to a canny eye that Alayne is very much unfamiliar with such a device, or at least using it in this way. soon the mirror is set and angled to show her seated, neat and prim and just a little chagrined as she huffs, speaking softly at first: ]

I half feel I'm speaking to myself, how strange...

[ but there is so much strangeness going on, at least as far as she's concerned, and if she can take the rest in stride she can manage this, too. so she tells herself, anyway.

she fixes her gaze upon the mirror, raising her voice. ]

I thought it may be prudent to introduce myself, if these devices are widely used. [ her trepidation at the oddness of this does not show. courtesy is courtesy and this, at least, she knows well, and her smile is amiable. ] My name is Alayne Stone, and I am newly arrived, though - I have memories of being here before, briefly. If there are any who remember me or who, perhaps, have experienced the same, I would be happy to hear from them.

[ she hopes, desperately -- but there's no sense in thinking too long on that, and she curtails the beginnings of said hope shining on her face swiftly. ]

I was hoping, also, to speak to some... better experienced witches, or those who - who perhaps know more of Bonding. [ her mouth opens, about to ask more, but she seems to think better for it. ] I promise, though I have amassed quite the pile of questions I will try to keep my onslaught to a minimum.

[ briefly, her head dips, fleetingly shy before she nods to herself and looks to the mirror again. ]

And I have little notion of how necessary such a service may be, but I thought I might offer my talents with a needle and thread to those in need. [ Alayne smiles again. ] Perhaps not the most exciting of abilities, but I am capable enough should you need things mended or embroidered. [ though the idea of working for money is near as strange to her as anything else, really, but she could use both the coin and the distraction.

that said, that hesitant, unsure look passes across her face again, because she's really not certain as to the etiquette involved in ending a message like this. in the end, she settles for dipping her head in an approximation of a curtsey, and leaves it at that. ]

((ooc: for plotting, or if we had a fourth wall thread going, feel free to hit me up via pm or ikanas!))

Name: alomar
Date: 7/18
Format: text

I'm going to try and keep this short, or at least broken up for legibility.

[Because reading lengthy text messages on these communicators hurts her eyes.]

I've been living alone for quite a while and would like to change that. I have space for one other where I'm living now, but prefer to find a new place for a fresh start.

[This currently place has a History and she's finally taking the emotional step forward to break from the memories still holding her there. Still, the itch for a pack (or pride, rather) has become too strong to simply ignore.]

The network seems like a better option than the ads.

I am a lion turnskin and what most here would call a warrior back in my world. I do come with weapons and I'm generally neat.

I do keep odd, feline sleep hours though. I prefer to keep in shape and train often, as well as assist with the less advantaged here in the city.

Lastly, if anyone would like to learn self-defense, archery, or grappling, I am available for hire.

Name: Anonymous
Date: 7/16
Format: text

what's a good gift for a 1-year anniversary? For a dude?

I'll take all suggestions, even stupid ones.

Name: Gon Freecss
Date: 7/14
Format: text
Is this wo rking??

ah

These things are hard to use... can anyone see this?? is this in the right place

Anyway hi Im new and Im a monster mirrorbound! Im kind of learning about some stuff but i dunno how i feel about them. I'm also curious so I guess I have some questions too...

1) Has anyone here ever regretted making a bond? I heard that people can feel each others feelings and stuff... it sounds way more intimate than a normal relationship and it made me wonder if people sometimes make mistakes with choosing their bonds especially cuz its kind of a survival/health thing, right??

2) To othr monsters whove felt it before, what's being feral feel like?

3) again other monsters, what was your most painful physical change?

Thank you very much!

[that took so long to write and Gon knows it is RIDDLED with mistakes but what is important is that IT'S DONE so he just goes ahead and sends it. hopefully it ends up where it's supposed to...]

Name: kara zor-el
Date: 7/16
Format: text

so i've got a bunch of questions
and not all of them are related so i hope you'll forgive how disjointed this is

1. was anyone else non-human before they came through a mirror? are you a monster now or a witch?
2. apparently i'm going to start growing feathers soon. how different is it to care for feathers than it is hair? do i need to invest in special shampoo?
3. this one might be kind of weird but... have any arachne produced silk for knitting? or would any be willing to if it's not too sticky?
4. how much of an empathetic connection is formed with a bond? can you strengthen it? diminish it? has anyone with a bond had previous experience using or resisting empathetic/telepathic abilities, and did that affect they way your bond works at all?
5. has anyone put together any real research into how bonds work and how much they affect control over bestial changes and magic?
6. where can i get sunflower seeds? for eating, not planting. i've got a craving

thanks in advance for any answers!

Name: Nico
Date: 18/07
Format: Video

Alright, so here's the thing—

( The video begins with the camera pointing up at what appears to be a neatly thatched cottage ceiling, but it's quickly lifted and moved so that it's propped up to show what appears to be a kitchen. Appears to be, because at the moment it's also functioning as a tinkering-station-cum-greenhouse for Nico, her piles of scrap metal and magical textbooks taking over the majority of the counter space.

The woman herself doesn't seem to be in the best of moods. Before she can get into it she brandishes a cross-head screwdriver at someone off screen with a "Hey! Get outta here, I'm fixin' this!", before reaching over to a semi-hidden fruit-bowl and hurling an apple towards the intruder. A long-suffering sigh follows, and she drags a hand through the mess of her hair as she turns her attention to the camera again. )

Right, so. My associate here, he just doesn't have any appreciation for the love an' care I put into my creations. He thinks he can just run around breakin' them without any consideration for the time it takes to fix 'em again.

( She tosses the screwdriver onto the table, then reaches over to pull a mechanical arm into the frame. It certainly looks as though it's seen better days: there's visible damage to the forearm, one of the fingers is missing, and where the prosthetic would connect to Nero's elbow there's a tangled mass of frayed wires. )

Only problem is, they don't wanna be fixed any more. Nothin' I do works—an' I made this from scratch, you understand? These are my babies.

( Her lips pull into a frown as she places it back down onto the table. )

So I gotta wonder, is this a magic thing? I've been up all hours of the night with these books I borrowed from the Coven— ( A vague gesture is made towards her chaotic piles of research. ) But even if I'm supposed to be a witch, my "magic" ain't good enough for makin' technology work yet.

( And you know, Nico's just going to avoid mentioning the whole Bond thing for the time being, because while she now has a pressing need to regulate her magic? The thought of relying on someone else makes her wrinkle her nose. )

Anyone got any bright ideas? Or— ( Your pride, Nico. Swallow it. ) Maybe someone could point me in the direction of a magi ... tech ... tutor? I can't pay much, but I'm real handy. I can do repairs, run errands—heck, the only thing I won't do is cook. Trust me, you definitely don't want that.

( She slants a grin towards the camera. )

Nicoletta Goldstein, by the way, but if you're gonna help me out then you can just call me Nico.

( And there's a wink as she reaches over to shut off the feed. )

Name: Sasuke Uchiha
Date: 07/09
Format: Text/Video

[ The video opens with a perfectly still, immaculately framed sepia shot of a storefront. The glass of the windows is smudged with dirt and dust that’s far less noticeable at the center but which appears borderline opaque around the outside edges, and with a flecked paint job on the wood siding it’s clear that this particular store isn’t wearing its age well.

Nevertheless the signage above the store appears newly updated, stark and clean in sharp contrast to the rest. ]

This is an advertisement for Daemonologie. [ There’s a pause as if even he doesn’t know how to quite handle the appearance of the business he somehow has to make appealing, at least managing to hold in a sigh. ] I’m fixing it.

Check the attached text in accordance with this video. [ Which is how the clip itself abruptly ends, though not before Sasuke turns the camera to the left and then to the right to make the shop’s location in the southwestern Shopping District more apparent to any who might be on the lookout. ]

The following is a statement prepared by my employer:

Daemonologie is an all-ages magical menagerie and emporium servicing both witches and monsters. Are you tired of sourcing your mystical beasts from the Wildes? Are you feeling overwhelmed trying to find the right breeder for your ideal familiar? Do you need the feather of an enchanted sparrow for your latest potion but don’t feel like buying the whole bird?

Then Daemonologie is the place for you. We not only provide quality companionship in the form of magical creatures aplenty but we also offer a variety of animal byproducts for any of your witching needs. Quills? Not a problem. Unfertilized and fertilized eggs? We have them. Scales both decorative and deadly? You know the answer! Stop on by today!

(Note: Vampires welcome! Ask about our animal blood specials (guaranteed to be high in magic)! Also don’t miss our weekly sale items: enchanted brushes for even the thickest fur, pewter cauldrons, and a humidifying enchantment to offer comfort and relief from a dry molt.)

As a bonus we’re offering a special promotion. Comment here if you would like to take a short quiz that will pair you with the familiar best suited to your personality type. You will then receive a 5% discount on the animal that you receive as your result. What a deal!

For the first question: what is your ideal vacation spot?

A. The city
B. The beach
C. Somewhere woodsy
D. The mountains
E. The desert

[ He did not expect for his second day on the job to require him to market his workplace to other Mirrorbound, but here he is. ]

Can't believe this is gonna be my first post on here, awkwaaard lol.

This place is full of romantics. I've met a bunch of Witches and Monsters who're getting together in pairs, three-of-a-kinds, and some are even going for full houses. I'm in a bit of a pickle and I'd like some advice on the problem, since everyone's probably way better at figuring this stuff out than me. And, actually, it's more like a couple of problems? Because I really, really like two separate people.

I know this is a story as old as time and if I don't be careful I could make a huge mess of everything, but I genuinely don't know what to do with myself. "You can't have your cake and eat it, too," is a really relevant expression to use here, I feel, and overall I've got so little experience asking one person out let alone multiple. Both of them are unique and couldn't be more different, which is probably what's making the decision on who to try for so difficult. They're both funny and attractive, but one's super smart, affectionate, and dynamic, while the other's strong, willful, and considerate.

What are your thoughts? Am I overthinking it, or being too callous? Having crushes on your friends is normal, but how about moving forward with both of them? Sorry if this is weird, or no one actually gives a shit. I do, and I hope to hear from you. Thanks!

P.S. You don't need to get all detective on me just because I'm anon, but if you do figure out who this is? Please don't be a dick and spread your knowledge (totally wishful thinking, but I think I've been cool enough with everyone and I hope they don't think I deserve that).

P.P.S. If the people I'm talking about figure out who this is? Yikes, first of all, but no pressure. I mean it.

Name: Sowilo (petaluridae)
Date: June 13
Format: Video

The face that comes over the video might be familiar to some: delicate-featured, red-haired, bearing the un-hidden features of a jewel-red dragonfly Fae. Sowilo is known to be brusque and haughty, but today he only looks serious, occasionally glancing off-screen, where the sounds of another couple of people in the office can be heard.

“Two Wilders came back from the Northern Outpost this morning. Apparently a dozen of them went missing a handful of days ago and the search party has only turned up these two. Overcurious meatheads that they are, they found trouble on a trip out. They are not seriously injured-” He holds a hand up. “-but they have the strangest story.”

“While exploring after a rockslide they came upon a tunnel, and like the geniuses they are, decided to follow it down. Very far down, to caverns where they were ambushed and captured handily.” There is a quiet protest in the background, and murmuring, but Sowilo pays it no mind. “The two who returned were purposefully released, and they’ve described to Theodore an underground city full of actual, living people. What in the world do you all know about this? Their leader sent a message that she will release the other ten Wilders safely if “only the travelers who have laid eyes upon her fair city before” accept her cordial invitation to her realm. Doesn’t take a scholar to assume she’s talking about you Mirrorbound. You have a way of attracting trouble, don’t you?”

“I’m sure you understand why this is a… delicate situation for the Coven, and for Aefenglom. We have no records of any city existing underground - we know absolutely nothing about these people, what they want, or what they are capable of. The message was very clear that representatives from the Coven or Aefenglom were not welcomed, so our hands are a bit tied. Their leader wishes to speak with some of you directly, even.” Glittering red eyes narrow.

“We leave on the 16th from the North Gate and will use the teleporter to the Northern Outpost. From there, Theodore and I will accompany you as far as we can, but I imagine it won’t be far at all.” There is a moment of hesitation here from the stuck-up Fae, and he looks a bit like he bit into a lemon. “I suppose we are relying on you all. Please know that this is an unprecedented situation and could turn dangerous for all of us. Not to mention, if they decide they don’t like us, we’ll likely have to abandon the Northern Outpost and all the progress made up there…

I suppose decide among yourselves what you’re willing to do. We will not force anyone's cooperation.”

I'll keep this short.

I need a sword made for me, preferably a rapier. It doesn't have to be enchanted or anything.

I'll get the materials you need for it.

I can pay in advance or do whatever it is you want for a month. Killing, babysitting, housework, fetch quests, foraging, doesn't matter how odd or hard it is. I'm not picky.

Thanks :)

Name: Elliot Craig
Date: 3/2
Format: Text

🎶🎸🎹🎻🎶
Love Music? Learn an Instrument Today at VII Notes!
Hello everyone! My name is Elliot Craig, and I just wanted to advertise that I'm offering music lessons! Music is a wonderful form of expression that anyone can get into! It makes a great hobby, or it can be used to help channel magic for witches out there. And for you romantic types, it's a great way to impress a special someone in your life~

Currently I offer lessons with piano, violin, guitar, recorders (great for kids!), harmonicas and singing! Group or solo lessons are available, with discounts offered with group lessons. Special accommodations can be made for monsters! And as always, the first lesson is free!

Please contact me today if you're interested! Thank you!

[OOC: A sign up post with more information can be found here! Lessons will be handwaved for the most part]

Name: Anonymous | Vanitas
Date: 3/1
Format: Text



[ So Vanitas has been terribly frustrated for the last few days trying to figure this out himself. Unfortunately, he isn't really equipped to come to the answers on his own. ]

Normally I wouldn't bother with things like this, but it would appear that all my other options are exhausted or unavailable.

A little while ago I found myself experiencing some strong urges. I can't say that they are entirely unfamiliar, but the circumstances and conditions are different. Wanting to throttle someone and make them pay is nothing new, but because they hurt someone I am acquainted with is. So I suppose my question there is why. This person is perfectly capable of handling it themselves so why is it that I also want to?

Which brings me to the second issue since this is all tied to the same situation. The look this person had on their face? I didn't like it and I don't want to see it again. That is new and I don't know what that means or what it is at all.

This is probably a waste of time, but I can't figure it out. So here we are.

[ tl;dr: Vanitas might actually care about someone - or at least have something of an urge to protect them - but he can't recognize it at all because pfft he's not the sort that does that, right? ]

Name: un: PXW
Date: Feb 13
Format: Text

[Anyway.]

WANTED-- Lodging in a respectable rooming or boarding house, with a strong desire for the latter. The following accommodations must be met: No animals kept indoors; No children; No fellow tenants who might be susceptible to the vices of liquor, betting, or marriage. The room must be clean, quiet, private, and immediately available. A locking door is most preferable.

Prospective tenant is an educated man of science accustomed to long hours, with little taste for parlor games.

Make your reply here. References to be waived for the sake of expediency and convenience ONLY, and may be requested upon inspection of the premises.

Name: Prompto Argentum
Date: 2/8
Format: video

[In the background of this video, there's the (relatively) hushed sounds of a certain Sun King's voice, trying to get someone to stop and rest, as she should. He's being met with growls of "I'm busy!" along with some pots and pans clanging and chopping as she’s clearly trying to make Something. It might be a stew? There's still the remains of a varied breakfast and food packages that were just set on the table. Pointing this out does not appear to be much of a deterrent.

While all that’s going on, Prompto just sort of. Gives the camera a Look.]

So, I was going to let everyone know that hey, I'm back, Insomniac Delivery is back up and running, please do not try to eat my chocobo, photos will be back soonish, et cetera et cetera, but Caren dropped some interesting information at breakfast this morning and that takes priority. So.

[Pause for effect. An effect that is likely somewhat spoiled as more extreme measures of putting things on higher shelves is met with highly vocal protests decrying it as an unfair move.]

Apparently Dorchacht used to be a monster city.

[Yet another pause for further effect. And also a drink of coffee because boy, does Prompto need the (sugary, creamy, mostly everything but coffee) caffeine this morning.]

So, according to Caren's...contact? Before Drummond or whoever came around, witches lived in a separate part of the city because they were considered the dangerous ones. They said they treated the witches fairly and I'm pretty sure it'd be hard to treat people worse than how Dorch was when we got there, but, uh, maybe take that part with a grain of salt?

[And of course, in the midst of Prompto trying to explain, he’s interrupted by the menace in the background.]

This also could have been centuries ago so- no, I don't want tea. I don't feel like being drugged today, thank you!

That's not what-- [He lets it go. It's not that important right now. He plucks a ladle away from Caren.] It sounds as though they avoided the consequences of full moons without Bonds, but still engaging with one another.

[Prompto is just gonna ignore all that going on in the background. This is important. And also Ozy can handle Caren better than he can, let’s be real.]

They also told Caren about where Monsters and Witches came from, according to Dorchacht's lore, and what the Cwyld is...sort of. At least why it's a thing.

It's different from what they tell us here. According to their story, the Sisters freed the monsters from the True Fae and...Ozymandias! Don't put my knives there!

[And there she goes, back into the background. Specifically, onto the counter to save her knives. Her efforts are near-immediately spoiled as Ozymandias loops an arm around her middle and tosses her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes.]

You're only going to confuse everyone worrying about something like that right now. If you’re not going to rest, at least focus. [He brings Caren back into view, setting her down, but keeping a firm arm wrapped around her. It would probably be a very nice hug under other circumstances.] What Caren was trying to say is that the True Fae then angered the Sisters by teaching humans magic. Thus, they created the Cwyld as punishment for their insolence.

Prompto, I trust you can manage from here. I'm going to remove the temptation to continue trying to cook.

[He barely waits for an answer before opting this time to at least princess carry Caren.

Prompto, meanwhile, stares in utter bafflement as they go off because that sure is a Witch princess carrying a freaking Chimera. Just for a moment, though, before he turns back to the watch.]

Yeah, what Ozy said. Anyway, uh. That was a lot, but there were other things Caren’s contact mentioned, but this is already pretty nuts so...any questions?

[[Prompto, Ozymandias, Caren. All three are available for questions!]]

Name: Akko
Date: 2/7
Format: text

soooo what's everyone's plans for valentine's day??? （〃・ω・〃）
i'm going to be making chocolate for all my friends! if there's anybody else planning on making chocolate you could come over and we could make it together
i'm okay with helping people if they're not sure what they're doing

[...She might need the help more than them in reality, but this is neither here nor there.]

oh! i know, it can be a sleepover for those that wanna stay longer or have a lot of people to make chocolate for. let me know if ur coming and i'll see about getting enough snacks for everyone (ﾉ^ヮ^)ﾉ*:・ﾟ✧

and supplies for making chocolates duh

Name: Marie Antoinette
Date: 2nd
Format: text, with pictures added

[Marie opens the post with a smiling photograph of herself, taken in the main square of the city. After all, most of those she was addressing have not met her yet so it would be nice to give them a face to go with her words, right?]

Hello to everyone who arrived in Aefenglom recently! Without doubt you must be feeling lost and confused right now. But fear not, that is where I and the other Mirrorbound come in! My name is Marie Antoinette, it’s a pleasure to meet you! I have been here for some time, so I would love to offer you some of the experience I have accumulated during these months - I was lost and confused at some point as well and I wand you all to have access to the assistance I know I needed back then! I was blessed to have close friends from home here with me but I know that not everyone’s situation is like this. Maybe you are the only person from your homeland to ever arrive in Aefenglom or maybe you have been separated from your friends and family.

Fear not! Our homelands are as different as possible but we are all in this together and we will help each other! I will write up what strikes me as most important and others, especially Witches can add to it! I am a Fae so much of the Witch business is unknown to me. However, that’s why we all need to share experiences!

[She attaches a small and very simple smiling drawing of herself]

Firstly, you will hear this many more times but whether you are a Witch or not, do not neglect your Bonds! You might be thinking that you do not need anything like that, that you have always managed without any kind of connection. The truth is, it is different in Aefenglom. You need a Bond to survive. I know what you are going to say, that you do not want this kind of closeness with anyone. Still, I recommend you at least try it with someone, for your own good - if it does not work out, you can always call the Bond off. You can also use the temporary Bond potions to get a feel of how a Bond feels fist. If making friends is not your forte, just contact me and I will do my beat to introduce you to someone!

Secondly, and this is directed to those who are not Witches... You are going to experience changes. These will start happening when full moon comes and will repeat every month. Depending of what you are transforming into, these might be faster or slower, but whatever happens, it will probably hurt you, a lot. You might feel as if you weren’t yourself. Do not stay alone during these harsh days. Have someone to give you a hot cup of tea and hold your hand. If you can, find a Bond before that. Even if your Bonded does not stay with you, the connection will make the whole process less painful and more bearable.

Do not hesitate to reach out to other Mirrorbound with any questions you might have. We have all been new here at some point. I can take care of you during your first transformation if you do not have anyone else. Just contact me via the watch!

[Her own transformations were... more or less bearable by now.]

Please take care of yourself, everyone. If the recent events have shown me anything, it is that we as the Mirrorbound of Aefenglom are always ready and willing to help each other, no matter how bad the situation might be. It is when the Mirrorbound refuses to accept the help when the worst tragedies can occur.

[She ends the post with a photo of some fresh flowers]