[Open Mingle] End of Summer Lucky-Pot

[darkestbefore]

Who: Anyone and Everyone!
When: September 22nd
Where: Cnoc Áine
What: It is the final day of Summer and the first day of Fall so the Temple of Áine, the Irish Goddess of Summer, throws one last picnic to bid her season farewell. All are welcome, as long as they bring a dish for the lucky-pot potluck.


[ To celebrate the final day of Summer, the Temple of Áine has gone all out, decorated in vibrant shades of red and gold that already accent the hint of leaves that are changing outside the temple grounds. Although inside the walled temple, it still seems like a beautiful summer day, the leaves on the trees still a bright vibrant green. The picnic is set up in the large orchard that spreads within the temple, the trees' boughs heavy with brightly-hued apples of every flavor and crispness.

Blankets and tables are scattered beneath the trees and in the clearing at the center, several long tables are set up to be filled with dishes brought by guests. Yona has supplied some of it herself, with the help of some friends. Several roasts, carefully sliced and carved for guests. A large platter of corn still on the cob. Several types of breads, seasoned with fruits or vegetables from the summer seasons or the harvest. And apples, of course - those seem to be here and there and everywhere; in pies, sliced and paired with peanut butter or caramel or other dips, made into a buttery spread for the loaves of bread. No matter what people bring to add to the potluck, there will be plenty of food to go around, as well as wine and ciders generously offered to go with it.

There is music playing in the background, just to set the mood or for people to dance to, and the pools of water are still warm enough for people to take a soak or swim in. And when the sun sinks and the sky darkens and the air grows a little cooler, a large bonfire is lit, with hot cocoa passed around and the makings for s'mores set out for anyone who wants to have a little dessert after their feasting. One last offering to a fading summer until it comes around again. ]

Comments

[darkestbefore]

[ Yona pauses in her task at the sound of a voice addressing her and turns to greet Forrest with a bright smile. ]

Forrest! You made it! I'm so glad. And thank you! I tried. Although I keep feeling like I forgot something. Not that I can figure out what it is yet...

[clothes_make_the_man]

You've got music, food, a pool, and pleasant weather... I can't think of what you might be missing.

[He smiles back at her before seeming to remember something, reaching into one of his pockets and handing her a small vial of water.]

Oh! Here. I brought this for you. A present for our kind hostess.

[darkestbefore]

[ She looks surprised as she reaches out to take it. ]

Oh, you didn't have to do that! But thank you! May I ask what it is? [ She holds it up to peer at it curiously. ]

[clothes_make_the_man]

It's water from my temple's healing pool, infused with a substance called amrita that's sacred to the Hindu pantheon. Besides cleansing blight, it's also good for keeping your skin smooth and soft.

[Even just looking at it, it appears crystal clear - almost sparkling.]

[darkestbefore]

Oh, Forrest, that's a very generous gift! [ She looks surprised, and then pleased. ] Thank you for this. Although I hope to avoid any more Blight, if I can help it.

[ But anything that can heal is pretty much a necessity in this temple, really. ]

[clothes_make_the_man]

I'd hope so too. But at least now you'll have this in case of an emergency.

[Or if she just wants to use it as a skin treatment. Forrest certainly wouldn't judge.]

[darkestbefore]

It is much appreciated. Thank you, Forrest. [ She tucks it safely away in her sash. ] Have you been enjoying yourself, I hope?

[clothes_make_the_man]

Yes, everything has been lovely. I think a party with good friends and food is the perfect way to end the season.

[darkestbefore]

I thought so, too. [ She gives a small, fond smile. ] It's been a while since I've seen you. I hope things have been going well?

[clothes_make_the_man]

It's been about the same as usual. I've started an apprenticeship with Lady Orihime to learn her divine design techniques. I'm hoping eventually I'll be able to enchant the clothing that I make.

[darkestbefore]

[ Her mouth drops open in surprise. ] Oh, Forrest, that's wonderful! Her designs are so beautiful, too, that must be amazing to get to work with her.

[clothes_make_the_man]

She's a true master of the art. I feel very privileged to be able to study under her guidance. I've been learning so much and broadening my own skill set. I'd be happy to design something for you sometime if you'd like.

[darkestbefore]

[ She looks surprised for a moment longer before giving him a warm smile, touched by the offer. ] Oh, but I wouldn't want to trouble you, Forrest. Isn't that a great deal of work? But if you want someone to practice on, I'd be happy to help.

[clothes_make_the_man]

It is, but I enjoy my work - especially when it can bring a smile to the face of a friend.

[darkestbefore]

[ She gives a soft laugh at that, giving him a fond look. ]

You're such a good friend already, Forrest. I'm glad you've found something you enjoy doing so much. If I can do anything to help, please let me know?

[clothes_make_the_man]

Hmm...

[He thinks for a moment.]

Actually, do you have any clothing from your world here that I could see?

[darkestbefore]

Ah, I do, some. [ She nods, looking surprised. ] I have the outfit I arrived in, although it's not very fancy. It was meant more for traveling and... well, blending in in the towns we wandered through, rather than being all that formal.

[clothes_make_the_man]

That's all right. Seeing clothing from many different worlds, made for many different social settings... that's really what I'm interested in. It'll help me to broaden my horizons and learn more about design.