FEBRUARY 2021 EVENT: PART ONE

[robbies]

 

CHAPTER TWO, PART 1: A LIGHT LUNCH

Good times, great olives, Uliveto's.

INVITES AND INSISTENCES | BISQUE AND BREADSTICKS | FONTINA AND FOCACCIA | MUNDANITY AND MISHAPS

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INVITES AND INSISTENCES

After a fairly low-key January, you start hearing the buzz on February 1st: The Happy Homes Association is inviting you to a luncheon on Friday! Stylishly dressed women in coats and hats are inviting everyone they know in the neighborhood, coming up and knocking on your door to invite you personally to come along. “Noon on Friday at Uliveto’s,” one of them tells you with a bright smile. “There’ll be food and drinks, and the whole community can get together and mingle a bit!”

Whether you’re home to answer the door or not, you’ll receive a small card advertising the event — it’s a fundraiser, after all, and they need your help! Pay just $3 and your food and as much as you’d like to drink are covered.

But some of the HHA members are a little more insistent, roving the neighborhood in search of anyone who’s just moved to Santa Rosita in the past few months. Their almost too-wide smiles and slightly-vacant eyes are a dead giveaway that these neighbors aren’t all at home, and they aren’t willing to take anything less than a “Yes” when they ask you if you’re coming. You’ve got to wash your hair? They know a hairdresser over at the salon on Main Street who can fit you in today. Groceries? Why, their daughter can take care of that for you in a jiffy! No excuse will fly with these Robbies; they’ve always got an answer and a way for you to make an appearance.

It won’t end once you’ve agreed, either (even if you just agree to get them off your back!). With the promise of another guest at the luncheon, the Robbies are quick to suggest that you should help them! There are so many people in the town, after all, and with more people volunteering to spread the word, they can make this the most successful fundraiser ever! (Or, well, at least the most successful since last year’s Little League candy sales!) Look, there’s another of your new neighbors over there — why don’t you go and invite them now? Your new friends from the HHA will be right here to support you and help you out!

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BISQUE AND BREADSTICKS

On Friday, February 5th, Uliveto’s is easy to find — just follow the train of cars headed to North Santa Rosita, where the restaurant sits just off of Main Street with a parking lot that’s packed full. Hopefully you’re willing to walk, because it looks like the luncheon is in full swing! But as you get closer, you see that the ladies of the HHA have things down to a science as they welcome neighbors, invite them to join one of the many tables set up in the half of the restaurant they’ve taken over, and integrate newcomers into conversation.

“Oh, hello!” one of the ladies gushes as she spots you. “I’m so glad you could make it! It’s a little cold today, but you should try the tomato bisque — it always warms me right up! Come with me and Betty can get you all set up with your meal voucher; have you ever been to Uliveto’s before? It’s just divine; the salad and breadsticks are all you can eat and the pasta — golly, my mother never even tried to outdo it. We’d just come here instead!”

Before you know it, you’ve paid your entrance and have been shown to one of the large party tables (or maybe they’re multiple tables pushed together? What restaurant normally has tables that seat 20 people?), a waitress offering you the drinks menu and asking if you’d like to start with a glass of (nonalcoholic, of course!) wine. Once she’s gone, you’ll finally get a chance to look around the interior of the restaurant. The walls are a warm yellowed beige, and fluted columns break up the space with clinging ivy and grapes hanging from planters near the top. A mural is painted on the far wall of a terrace looking out over rolling hills and vineyards, and the soft music of an accordion reaches your ears…

“You all right, hon?”

One of the ladies at your table is looking at you expectantly. Don’t forget, you’re here to mingle and socialize! Time to break out that small talk!

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FONTINA AND FOCACCIA

As the luncheon continues, you may be able to notice some of the HHA volunteers scurrying back and forth, taking turns manning the doors and the small table where Betty’s taking donations and issuing meal vouchers. Watch long enough and you’ll be able to see that all of them are ultimately reporting to three ladies who confer at a smaller table set back from all the mingling, talking amongst themselves and from time to time making notes in a small ledger. At about half past noon, one of the women stands, calling out, “May I have your attention, please?” She has to repeat it a couple times to be heard, but after a minute or two everybody settles down. The woman nods toward all of the guests, then turns back to the table, allowing one of the women to stand and make herself known. Tall, graceful, and neat, she takes a look around the room as she speaks — does her gaze linger a moment on you? Good afternoon, everyone. For those of you who may not know me yet, my name is Rosemary Craven, and I’m the head of our local Happy Homes Association. A small wave of applause breaks out from some of the ladies; Rosemary seems to indulge them for just a moment before she lifts a gloved hand to quell it. Please. I can only manage what I’m given, and the fine women of the association give me plenty to work with. Their efforts to organize this luncheon for all of us today showcase the dedication we should all strive for. Ladies, please stand and be recognized. Today’s fundraiser is to benefit our town as Founder’s Day approaches in April. We’ve got big plans for the funds we raise — who knows? Perhaps we’ll be able to afford some yummy treats for the children. Who doesn’t love an ice cream cake? Your generosity today makes all of this possible. You’ll forgive me for not giving you hard numbers, but I’d hate to be so gauche in such a lovely restaurant. Let me assure you, though, that the Happy Homes Association is here to help you in whatever way we can, whether that’s by helping you redecorate your homes, bringing over home-cooked meals, or teaching you some new skills — and speaking of new skills, I’d like to invite all of our new neighbors to talk with me personally if you think you might be interested in helping us out from time to time. Sewing might not be your forte, but everybody’s got something they’re good at, and we can always use the extra hands. I’ll let you all get back to your meals. If you have any questions for me, please seek me out. I’ll be sitting just over here with Maude.

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MUNDANITY AND MISHAPS

After the luncheon, things in Santa Rosita continue on as normal. The weekend comes and goes, the work week begins, and the cold February wind blows… But when you wake up on February 10th, some of you are missing.

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OOC INFO

Welcome to the first part of February’s event! You can use this entry to top-level for the event, but feel free to utilize the log and network communities as well. Sign-ups to have your character abducted are located here; please fill out the form provided along with any other pertinent details.

You may play with the townsfolk NPCs as necessary in your threads; non-Robbied neighbors will be cordial and happy to make small talk and will try to maintain the pleasant atmosphere. Robbies will, as always, be mindlessly optimistic and complimentary about everything—you may find that most of the Robbies have congregated at their own table and are bubbling with excitement over just about anything.

There will be a top-level posted for Rosemary below. If you would like to have your character interact with her, comment with your starter there. The mods will respond to tags for Rosemary until February 15th.

Any questions can go in our FAQ thread below. Try to check and see if your question has already been answered on the plotting thread first here.

Remember — part 2 of this event is coming February 15th!

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Comments

[helloneighbor]

Her brow creases slightly with sympathy as he gestures toward his empty sleeve, though Rosemary doesn't say anything that might call attention to the fact. "I must say it's a welcome surprise to find that so many of our new neighbors are willing to jump in where they might be needed -- especially the men. You'll be a real example to the rest of our husbands."

She reaches behind her for a small leather-bound book and pen, flipping it open -- it's her address book, pages and pages of names and addresses and phone numbers. "Why don't I take your contact information down? If you'd like to join the Association, you could always come by our meeting next week to discuss how today's fundraiser went. What sort of planning work have you done in the past?"

[helloneighbor]

"I would never," Rosemary says, shaking her head slightly, "though I hope there aren't many ghosts to be found in Santa Rosita. I would want to believe the people here..." She trails off, then finishes: "...find peace."

She takes a moment, looking as though she's gathering herself again, then asks, "How does one learn to do such a thing, Mr. Wei? Is it something you can be taught? Or must you be born with such talent?"

[helloneighbor]

Irrelevant? Why is that? It is the question I asked. You can't refuse to answer my questions if you'd like me to answer yours. [But her words aren't harsh; there's a small, seemingly-amused smile on her face.]

I wasn't born here, but I won't say any more than that until you answer my first question too.

[helloneighbor]

I hope that I've been able to help at least a little.

[Rosemary looks for a moment as though she wants to say more, then stops herself. Pauses, considers... and after a moment, she adds:] Though I feel as though I should be making the offer to you. I'm very familiar with the feeling that reality might... unravel. I've been dealing with it for a long time now.

It isn't something you can talk about with most people, however.

[fanoperator]

"That's exactly right," Huaisang confirms, following Carmilla's attention and also waving cheerfully at their unnerving surveillance. "There's some kind of spell that does it, though I don't know exactly how they find you out. It seems to wear off eventually, but my fear is that, you know. Sooner or later it won't wear off." He shudders at the thought of it.

Though he has no idea what Italian is and what would make for 'real' Italian, he lets that one go. There are enough things he doesn't understand in this situation. He can at least focus on the priority of figuring out what food he wants to order.

Her description is very helpful and clear, and he's learned in his time here what mayonnaise is, so that makes sense. He's not American either, and most of the 'new neighbors' aren't, so that comment sweeps past him without any additional implications weighing on it.

"My husband and I moved here in December," Huaisang says, putting on his bright and cheerful smile that the robbies will accept. "Of course, I was dreaming of the move since October, and let me tell you--I had some strange dreams! Some of them were downright frightening, of undead children attacking any house that didn't have festive decorations up!" Shivering in horror without losing his perky countenance, Huaisang nods earnestly as he continues. "Unfortunately, my husband vanished within the first week! I was talking to Mrs. Rosemary Craven about it." His eyes flick toward her. He's sure that Carmilla can't have missed her and her significance. "She explained how alcohol can be such a negative influence in the community, making men neglect their families and responsibilities."

[fanoperator]

"Oh, the Happy Homes Association really does so much around the community, don't you think?" Huaisang gushes, taking the lead so as to sooner convince Ethel that he really doesn't need the assistance. "We really all need to pitch in to help keep our community thriving."

Ethel echoes some more cheerful and empty explanations about the fundraiser and the lunch before Huaisang chirps up again. "Our families should plan to go together! You and my son Angelo are just about the same age, after all, and it would be good for both of you to make more friends."

[helloneighbor]

[Ha-ha, Daylight, ha-ha.] I had certainly noticed your... remarkable height. Have you always been so tall? You must have fielded a great many requests back home for help, particularly with an eye for details. Have you noticed anything about our Santa Rosita that I should consider looking into?

[Beat. Rosemary almost seems to hesitate, then squares her shoulders.] And I must ask you to forgive me my directness, Mr. vis Lornlit, but I actually prefer to go by Mrs. Craven. [She smiles, softening her words.] I didn't get married to continue being called by my childhood name, you know.

[helloneighbor]

She lifts a hand to her mouth, casting her eyes to one side as though embarrassed. "I don't tend to speak of myself much, Mrs. Nie. I much prefer learning about the people I share this town with and helping where I can." Her lips turn again, but this time Huaisang might notice there's a hint of sadness to Rosemary's smile. "I suppose my hobbies relate to learning and service - I like to listen to the experiences that those more well-traveled than I have had and learn about cultures outside of my own. I find it makes one much more well-rounded."

[helloneighbor]

"Round two?" If Rosemary's playing dumb, she's very good at it -- there's no indication that she has any understanding of what Carmilla's getting at. Eyes slightly wider, eyebrows creased, she continues, "Please, Mrs. Fowler, I'm having trouble following you. I run the Happy Homes Association, but I don't manage it for anybody else. I'm a modern woman. And I'm certainly not doing anything to anybody's minds! How would I even do such a thing?"

[bowfaire]

They probably wouldn't have to try so hard getting people to come if they had it.

(Considering how insistent and forceful they were trying to get people to come to this luncheon. They really didn't have to ask Claude twice so managed to avoid most of it but he's heard the stories from others.

He notes how Peter's voice hushes and makes sure to pay extra attention... Ah, the usual warning to avoid the food? He smiles casually and takes a drink from his wine glass-- and sputters. He forgot? This was bad? Here he was, just trying to be cool...)

If it's just that, it'll be fine.

(Styrofoam and razors are easy enough to find and remove. There are... less convenient options Claude might be more accustomed to, though. Anyway, reaching for a napkin and dabbing at his mouth some,)

Of course, if it was really endless, that would be a miracle. But there are some places that struggle to feed their people and this place just has "endless" bread...

(He's honestly impressed.)

[peninhand]

Yes, it's quick for people to assume we are... Crazy, ahaha. Thank you for your kindness. I will be sure to remember your offer.

[ Does she know something...? Obviously something is amiss. Perhaps she's not had quite an epiphany but still has the feeling something is wrong? It would be best to wait for another time to press the issue. ]

[ And why, "another time" came around fast. Following this conversation on February 11th, Monika is doing the rounds of every houses in the city, every buildings to try and find Rosemary. She starts out by looking for the Craven house amongst regular residences, then whatever place the HHA has chances to be found at and then everything else. She's gonna lose a lot of sleep over that, she's pretty desperate.

((OOC: Not sure if that's the right place to post that, but didn't find any other posts, sorry in advance!))]

[hxppythxughts]

[She gets it. Existing without being annoyingly touchy? Couldn't be Sayori.

Her eyes go wide with sudden amazement.] Hey, you're right! I didn't even think about that!

[She heard endless breadsticks and that's all that registered, let's be honest. Still better than square pizza and fries, because square pizza and fries eventually have an end.

Speaking of wine, does he have a glass of it with him? Because this question causes Sayori to give the nearest glass a dubious look.] I haven't yet... I've never had wine before so I was kinda surprised we were allowed to. Did they put jello in it or something?

[That seems to be a legitimate concern for all food products in this town...]

[peninhand]

[ Monika listened attentively. One continent. Three nations. One objectively better than the others. That sounded like a recipe for disaster. Also sounded like the perfect setting for a fantasy tv show. But Claude sounded... Human. So she didn't really put much weight into the possibility it's not a real place. ]

Leicester! It has a nice ring to it.

[ Certainly better than her own home. ]

Are all the ladies there as pretty as me and all the boys as undisciplined as you?

[ If he's not going to compliment her, she may as well do the job for him. It's alright, she's used to it. Besides it's not like he's a potential love interest. She would play the modesty card a lot more if he was. ]

[13thcommander]

"I do believe it's important to lead by example." Which is how he lost the arm, coincidentally, but Erwin doesn't need to tell that story.

Erwin gives her his contact information--one of his eyebrows twitches at the sight of that address book, but that's the only outward sign that he's noticed it--and nods when she mentions next week's meeting. "I would enjoy that, I think. I don't want to intrude on anyone else's planning or role, and it would be a chance to get the lay of the land."

He looks away for a moment before answering her next question. "I was a commander during the war, so everything from leading troops to managing supply lines."

[fanoperator]

"I entirely understand." Huaisang's smile is warm and sympathetic, and he nods his understanding. "I was a community leader back home, I know how it can seem like tending to the needs of others becomes your entire life. I hope you will take time to care for yourself, too. It's important to tend your own emotional garden so that it's always blossoming with plenty of love to give away."

He bites his lip briefly, almost shy. "May I invite you over for a traditional tea ceremony from my homeland? It would be my pleasure to teach you, and it's such a soothing ceremony."

[weifinder]

If a soul is confused enough at death to not know it's been suffering, is that peace? He doesn't know, and with none of his so-called demonic cultivation on hand at present, he couldn't say.

The question is one that stirs a flicker of unease in the pit of his stomach, but his smile doesn't waver. The ways of his learning had been desperate measures, accelerated because he'd been a cultivator, but not reliant on those things. "One can be taught," he says, "Though the only safe ways take time. Not getting overwhelmed by those energies is important."

Lest they all get away and cause damages not intended, or turn back on their wielder.

[sunborne]

(Daylight cannot hold back his grimace and makes a face when remembering all the fucking gelatin. What is with these people and their obsession with gelatin?)

Before Daylight can launch into yet another rant about jello or gelatin, Huaisang manages to say something that really grabs his attention. At the very least it causes Daylight’s eyebrows shoot up. “Really? That’s interesting to hear. Good to know she’s alright with being approached by others.”

Daylight has been and has also been debating how to address her. Mrs. Craven or Rosemary. He’ll find out if ‘Rosemary’ is allowed or not when he gets the chance to chat with her.

But— Back to the conversation at hand. “What did you guys talk about? Anything pop up to you in mind?”

[blackscales]

Perhaps Mrs Craven might remind us of the date.

[ Obviously everyone knows the date of the Founder's Day celebration! Silly him, though, it's clearly slipped his mind and he needs reminding. ]

They're very efficient, the ladies of the Happy Homes Association. I cannot help but admire the vigour with which they organised this.

[ Truly, a remarkable strength of personality they have. It makes him wonder just what else they might be organising. They do seem to have a surprising amount of power, after all. It almost seems as if they have complete sway over the whole place.

He's curious. He wants to find out more. ]

[sunborne]

Oh! [ he blinks for a few seconds but then grins, nodding in acquiescent. ] Of course, Mrs. Craven. Sorry about that. I'll do my best to be more mindful from here on out.

[ he wants to ask if mr. craven is here with her but he stop himself. he faintly remembers the etiquette lessons and how that's considered rude to ask if the spouse doesn't bring it up first. guess he'll be keeping an eye out for someone interacting with rose- with mrs. craven after this.

right now, it seems rude to leave her hanging on the question: ] -Now that you mentioned it earlier, Mrs. Craven- [ and since this part of town has been in his head since his first biking around the place. ] -I was thinking about the potential of the Southside of Santa Rosita. There's a lot of potential grounds there for things like activities and retreats, don't you think? With a bit more light and a lot of elbow grease, I bet that would be an amazing place for people to go.

[hoshikiri]

[Friendly indeed, but in a way that was different from others. A way that felt more realistic by comparison. Not a hard feat to accomplish, granted.]

I've been here some time. Should you require assistance or have questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I will do all I can to answer them. [Wow, it's almost as if he's got this 'good neighbor' schtick down to a science. It only took him two months to script it.]

[the_caped_crusader]

The universe is stranger than you think. And despite not understanding it, it'll still do whatever it wants to whether you believe it can or not.

[ he watches him eat the bread and thinks about warning him, but so far he hasn't seen any effect on the others. maybe it was slow release? or maybe he was just being paranoid. ]

Where I come from, I've seen worse than this.

[the_caped_crusader]

Only speculation. Loose threads that don't lead anywhere yet. They've certain done their job in covering their tracks, whoever they are really is.

[ while he believes the mayor, harding, and craven all know more than they will readily admit, he's not ready to say that any of them are the ones who put them here. maybe they're involved, or maybe they're just trapped like them. if time repeats, but consequences remain, how many times have they been through this? it would be enough to drive anyone mad. ]

Though I will tell you that I think Craven is likely the most dangerous of them all. Call it intuition.

[the_caped_crusader]

Blossom. Yeah, I can see that.

[ he smiles. ]

It fits.

[the_caped_crusader]

Careful. If they think it was a mistake, they'll likely just offer you more.

[ he eyes wuxian suspiciously, but also with some small degree of humor. ]

And yes, that's a garbage can. You're not from around here, are you?

[thepsyingnun]

[Once all the clothes are put away she hesitates for a brief moment, then lets out a breath and marches over to the kitchen. No time like the present, hm? She's done what she can to hide it until now, but it was time to face facts and create a back-up plan.]

Meet me in the kitchen when you have readied yourself.

[Ready for the party or for the talk, it could be taken either way. When he enters, he'll see two glass milk bottles filled with blood sitting on the table between them.]