Olivia breathed in the fresh air. She always loved taking walks in this small, quaint town with Humphrey. The only fresh air you’ll ever get from the city is the park right at its center surrounded by tall metal-and-glass buildings. Wehn she was young, she used to think that the buildings are made by aliens from another planet and the people on the park were the only humans left by the invasion. She doesn’t get how her family could stand living in a seemingly cold and lifeless place such as that. She’s hoping that someday she can convince her family to live in Valibree with her to let them experience what she experienced.
Humphrey barked, taking her back to reality. Walking in a quiet and a nature-centric town sure does make your wind wander around. She saw Humphrey barking again while playing tag with several children. She smiled, admiring how peaceful and kind Humphrey is like how he is enthusiastic and energetic. She whistled and Humphrey ran over to her while the children continued playing and enjoying life to the fullest. She patted and rubbed his head, and soon they’re back on their journey to the cafe.
They past several shops before stopping at the entrance for the cafe. The cafe is her second most favorite place in Valbree, the first being the the pristine lake uphill. She always loved the desserts beverages that they serve here. She figured she can ask for the cafe owner’s help in making a grape pie since she has no idea how to bake.
Olivia opened the door and letting in Humphrey first. She hoped the cafe owner doesn’t mind. Humphrey may be quite energetic but he’s really a good boy and will behave if asked nicely. She sat on one of the vacant tables and setting her basket on the table. Since she was asking for a favor, she figured it would be impolite to not give something in return for their generosity so she went back to her wine cellar and took a bottle of wine from her inventory. Olivia decided to let the cafe owner finish what he is doing first to not get in his way and tend to his customers first, admiring how cute the cafe is while rubbing Humphrey’s head.
Hope responded by sticking her tongue out playfully in Luna's direction while excitedly plucking the photo from the mouth of the camera. Clutching the picture gently she gave it a vigorous shaking in an effort to make the image show up quicker while simultaneously making her way past Javier. Naturally she gave him a smile and a quick "Mornin Javi." as she made her way to Luna.
Sadly, like always, the picture hadn't caught Luna mid morning routine but instead had her shielding her face from Hope's surprise photography. If she were being honest though it was still actually a rather good picture all things considered, between the lighting and the way Luna was glaring with just one eye visible over the top of the notebook-something about it was just particularly eye catching.
With a largely exaggerated sigh Hope slid her handiwork onto the counter top that now separated her from Luna, her eyes lingering on the image while slightly biting her tongue absent mindedly. Mentally she had to let the work of art go. "Welp...looks like you beat me again. Maybe you can rub some glitter in the wound?" Placing exact change next to the picture (she'd boughten glitter enough to know the price.) she went on to clarify incase Luna hadn't gotten her stupid joke. "Need a new bag of the sparkly stuff. Used up what was left of my last bag on Red this mornin."
EVENT DAY:New Years Day (01/01) New Years Day is a local holiday that occurs when the first tree within the Mayors Garden begins to show its first sign of leafage. By nightfall the Mayor himself sees to getting the word out as well as gathering up enough food to feed the whole town for an impromptu picnic party. The day came as quickly as it left. The sun set behind the small village of Valibree but most people were not going to sleep just yet. At the Mayor's home the very eccentric man was scurrying around his courtyard setting up places for his guests to sit. Correction, he set up one chair- his own at the very head of the very long and extremely heavy stone table. He hadn't really set up any of those either, they were left over from the last celebration. As far as the other chairs were concerned- he would force anyone who had come early to help set up the remaining chairs that were in his garden shed.
"Don't touch that chair, that's MY chair!"
The Mayor scolded a young villager, as the kid ran off giggling. No one was really afraid of the mayor, he was not very intimidating in stature or voice, but something about a man in power seemed to get respect no matter how ridiculous he looked. Some residents arrived and brought food for all, some brought food and gifts strictly for the mayor. Either way the mayor had to be the first to try it. Throwing his beard over his shoulder as to not get in the way, he stuck a finger right into a cream pie and took a delightful taste off his finger.
"Delicious!" he exclaimed, taking the pie to his side of the long table. He continued to taste various things, deciding whether or not they should be close to him or not based on their taste. As more people came the Mayor made a small announcement, "I want to take a moment here to thank everyone for coming to my- our event tonight! Look at my tree right there. Isn't she a beaut?" he pointed towards the budding tree that the Sprites had picked out earlier this morning. "Soon my entire orchard will be filled with beautiful blossoms for the entire village to see, isn't that wonderful everyone?" A cheerful grin spread across his lips, pearly whites showing. He agreed with himself nodding and continuing to ramble about how the Goddess must have something special in store for him this year.
Everyone else talked to one another, enjoying treats that the town had brought.
Aizum had left the morgue and went into his inn room, thinking about it, he deiced to make for the party, it would be rude to the Goddess, and ruin his reputation even more. Azium had donned a Red Tux he scavenged for in his clothes box in the Inn, finally finding it, not touched for decades.
It had fit him perfectly, "Ya' have the same flabby body as me kiddo..", he didn't have time to grief so he grabbed his regular hat, putting on a pair of snug gloves. As he looked up on the inn lobby clock, he would be an hour early to the party, so he went off into the bar, just to get another drink for tonight.
"Hello Mr. Umgrum, I've got the papers you've asked me to copy...", said a static voice through a mic," Alright, come in and bring me it, don't keep me waiting all night." A man in a black business suit was playing with a baseball, repeatedly throwing it to the air, and catching it with his other hand. The man had been sitting on an office, his very own office to be exact, with a large window looking down on the city. After a few short minutes, a stout secretary had entered the office, with a pile of paper, maybe 100 copies, or 150. "Here you go Mr.Umgrum," The lady said quickly, as he was one of the harshest workers in BigCo. As the man looked through the papers, the women had a quick look around the room, clean, tidy, but one thing stood out of all these things, a photo frame. Facing a quarter to the man, the women could barely see it, though the frame was done by hand, it was done magnificently, made from an oak tree, in the frame was a picture with low contrast, but was easy enough to know what it is. A family. Only about two kids, a younger version of her boss, and a small boy that had some resemblance to him. The man had looked up to see the lady staring at the photo, his eyes narrowed, "What are you doing Sonya! Get out of here! You know what! Just consider yourself FIRED!" He said it loudly and fast, too fast that Sonya couldn't answer, the words, 'Your Fired' were the loudest, possibly maybe the floor behind them heard.
Astrid headed back after paying at the bar and waving wishing then a good day, contrary to all popular legends and myths she could dress up if she wanted to and clean up nicely. Normaly seen in more casual sometimes a little dusty clothes, her work wear not helping in her boots and helmet driving a digger or other machines that sat round the mine helping her make a success of it.
see you at the party then, come on Fluffy! Home time.
Finding a old Cobolt blue dress she had not has reason to wear for a few months, this was the first real "event" in the new village, and after her previous other had left for big Co, it was almost fun to be someone else rather than her constantly working or such self. Her "nice event" coat was a few years old but still fitted perfectly and looked cute ernough, least she could try to clean up nice for the mayor.
Getting dressed and sorting her hair out into somthing more suitable and finding Fluffy lazing by the door obviously waiting for her, it was a darker walk back to Durins Cottage on edge of the village and she always felt better with her large dog as company. Durins Cottage was a smaller stone cottage near the mine, its thick walls and warm fire kept it surprisingly warm in the winter though its location was on thr far edge of thr village, the only things past was some old place the priest or priestess called home though she had rarely ever seen them.
The buzz of the party was viable, lights and clearly the mayor took things seriously for a party, bringing a small gift of a nice peice of qautz perfect for jewellery deeper in the mines looking for gold. A rather bad cook, she had decided that poisoning most of thr village was a bad idea!
Walking into the party, it seemed she was a tad early for the event and not everyone had yet arrived, thr mayor made a small announcement and seemed to be rather enthusiastic. Leaving her gift of the table in the little pile meant for him she made small talk and took advantage of the free food that was alot better than her cooking happily. Looking round for anyone she knew or even had to bumped into yet, not that they might reconise the normaly casual woman in a cobolt dress and neat cute pale coat.
Feeling slightly unfamiliar and not knowing many people, the party was fun but it would probbly of been better if she had decided to have been more social I'm the previous weeks and taken a few days off to know the locals more. Petting Fluffy, and fussing her for being a good girl, she was well behaved despite all the new distractions and overwhelming numbers of people. Leaning down slightly she made sure the Newfoundland knew Astrid was solely meaning her.
your doing great Fluffy, good lady. Very well behaved.
Gladly, at least her dog was a reliable companion and comfort she knew. Somehow for some reason, she felt that Fluffy understood her on some level. Trailing after her slowly, she was a large furry freind.
After ordering nothing but a black coffee and leaving the cafe after he was done, Jude went down to the farm only to find it empty. Releasing a sigh, he decided to head back into town and check back tomorrow. He didn't want to just sit around waiting for the owner all day; never was his style, waiting, he always preferred to be out and about.
By nightfall, he saw many of the villagers leaving their homes and heading to some house. Curious, Jude followed after them, noticing that the majority of them were well dressed. '... What are they doing?' He thought to himself as he continued to follow after the crowd. When they reached their destination, he found a picnic set up, a bearded man enthusiastically talking about his orchard blooming.
'This how the villagers celebrate the new year or something?' That seemed logical enough. He supposed that he was a townsfolk now, and part of being a townsfolk was participating in the town's events. Nodding to himself, he went over to a table that was set up with food, taking a sandwich from it. He tore a piece of bread off, sticking it in his pocket for Jimmy to eat.
After finishing his sandwich, he let out an impressed whistle. 'Goddamn. That was a good sandwich.' He felt rather out of place from the others, who were in nice clothing for the most part. He looked down at his own attire: his jacket had more than a few stains, his shirt had its fair share of holes in it, his pants were torn, and his boots were stained with mud. Add to that the fact that he hadn't showered in a good week or two, and he definitely wasn't winning any awards for best dressed anytime soon.
After thinking about it for a moment, Jude shrugged. He'll look into washing his clothes and getting a shower when he gets set up in the farmhouse. For now, he should just unwind and enjoy the festivities.
Olivia hurriedly raced back to the farmhouse, Humphrey barking and running along with her. She has never felt so stupid before in her life! She wasted almost the whole day in the cafe trying distinguish the cakes and pastries only by taste, as she was really shy and nervous about approaching the owner himself, that she didn't realize...
She has a baking book at home.
She entered the house and put her basket of wine at the kitchen table. She ran up to her bedroom to search her mini library and sure enough, she does have a baking book. She looked upwards, exasperated as she catch her breath. Olivia then went downstairs to the kitchen and set her book at the table, opened at the page where instructions about how to create a pie were shown. She got her ingredients and started baking.
Later at night...
Olivia arrived at the Mayor's party with her newly baked grape pie and, of course, some of her finest wine. She was dressed in her semi-formal attire and brought Humphrey, Claud, and Winda along with her. She even made Humphrey and Claud wear bowties and fashioned Winda with a cute mini-hat. She smiled serenely to the other villagers while she let her companions roam around and play with the other animals.
But behind that smile lies deep, deep pain. Specifically, burning pain. She also learned this day that she really doesn't know how to bake; she only knows how to burn. She was this close in setting the house on fire because she was drowsy due to the baking process taking too long. Another time she did pay attention, but she remembered Humphrey and the chickens haven't had their lunch yet so she made them first. When she came back, smoke came out of the oven again and the pie was charcoal black. Eventually, after many attempts, exasperated sighs, and tears of hopelessness, she managed to create the perfect grape pie that actually looked like what a decent pie should look like. She cleaned up her wasteland of a kitchen and managed to clean herself up and her animal companions just in time for the party.
She set her grape pie and her basket of wine at the table to share with the others, and admired the party going on. The Mayor never ceases to amaze her in creating such an event and gathering the whole townsfolk for a night. She always adored how friendly and happy the people are here, unlike in the city where no one wouldn't even bat an eyelid at you unless you have lots of money. For the millionth time, she was really glad she made the decision in moving in this charming town.
While greeting and smiling at the other townsfolk, she noticed someone different among the crowds. The man seemed to be wearing very worn-out clothes, maybe a result of traveling from a faraway place? He does look a little tired, for her though. Maybe after the event, she can invite him back at the farmho-
Olivia slapped her forehead. Maybe the newcomer did went to the farmhouse first but since she was at the cafe, no one was there to entertain him so he just wandered around until he's here at the party. Gods, she's the worst ever.
She approached the blond newcomer, taking note that his clothes are more worn-out than she thought and mentally chided herself once more. "Hello there", she said cheerfully. "You must be new at this town. My name's Olivia and I'm currently the owner of the farmhouse. If you did went there first, I sincerely apologize as I was away that time for some... important business." The man doesn't need to know that she was away because of pie, and she also felt that it was a dumb excuse anyway. "Anyways, you're here now and that's what matters! So how are you liking Valbree so far?".
Hope was in the middle of taking her fourth picture of Claud and Winda as they clucked and pecked at a bowl of seed the mayor himself had put out as if expecting the feathered company. She just couldn't get over how cute the couple was in their miniature bow tie and hat: upon first seeing them she immediately found herself wondering if Alex had made them at Olivias request. The thought reminded her that she also needed to snap a few photos of the always attention grabbing Diva-maybe even a group shot of all the birds?!
The amazing idea she was in the middle of was interrupted as Hope noticed an actual stranger in the party. Seeing a stranger in Valbree was odd, seeing a stranger in Valbree stuffing pieces of his food into his dirty pockets though was even weirder. Was he some sort of homeless guy or something? She was about to go and introduce herself only to watch as Olivia seemed to have the same idea; quickly Hope snapped a photo of the two from a few feet away.
"...and that's how I got this hat! Fascinating story, isn't it?" The mayor asked rhetorically, fully expecting all to be in agreement. In truth he had somehow drug out a five minute purchase at Alexanders shop into a half hour story complete with several long pauses where he himself had seemingly almost been put to sleep by his own words. The unfortunate late attendants to the party had been givein the "honor" of getting to sit closest to the Mayor: admittidley some opted to stand instead. "Oh. That reminds me, just the other day I was walking to the cafe...or was it the bar? Hmm...Let me think on it for a moment..."
Those that knew the old man could tell Mayor McByrd was winding himself up for another long winded story: the way his eyes glazed over from behind his glasses and the particular way he would stroke at his beard were all sure fire signs you were dangerously close to a story about nothing in particular. "Oh Godess no..." Came a familiar moan from the young blacksmith Red-having been one of the "lucky" two people actually sitting right next to the mayor this was going to be his third "riveting" story of the night. Despite his negative attitude though Red had always held a soft spot for McByrd and because of this he quickly found himself adding "...uh, I gotta go refill my glass. I don't want to miss the next great story." Quickly he chugged what was left of the totally not empty cup while getting up from his seat.
The mayor nodded in complete understanding "Of course, my boy! Hurry back now though, lest these other youngins make me start talking. You know how people love my stories."
"Of course Mayor...great party, like always." The way Red spoke at the end almost made it sound like he was sadly sighing the words. He was trying to convince himself he had come for just the food and drink tonight, and in his mind the real show stealer had been Olivia's wine, though the main reason he had actually left the house was due to the sheer persistence and annoyance of his sister. Leaveing the table Red had no intention of returning. In fact, he was heading for the stone steps that lead away from the party entirely. As far as he was concerned he had fulfilled his sisters annoying demand for him to socialize despite actually talking to anyone and now only wanted to go home and take yet another shower to try and remover the remaining sparkles that still occasionally shone brightly despite the growing night.
Hope was in the process of giving her most recent picture a good shake in an effort to help it develope a little faster. While doing this she had been people watching out of pure habit, sort of looking for her next picture, when she saw Astrid giving her dog a good pet. Seeing what was essentialy her neighbor gave Hope a momentary feeling of guilt she refused to let show on her face-not for necessarily ever having done anything wrong or scandalous to Astrid but just for the fact that they lived so close and yet Hope really didn't know her all that well. She couldn't help but blame herself. Determined to start the New Year off right she walked over to where Astrid currently was.
"Heya, its Astrid right? I'm Hope, Red's little sister. You know, the ugly blacksmith with a bad attitude that's currently trying to sneak out of the party, sometimes buys ore from you?" She gave a slight chuckle at her own joke while kneeling down to Fluffy's level. Extending a hand out slightly while keeping a respective distance she made it clear Fluffy was welcome to give her a sniff. "She's such a beautiful dog. Whats her name? Oh, and I love your outfit by the way...Sorry If I'm rambling." She gave Astrid a big genuine smile "Kinda do that when I meet new people."
Watching Red walk off the Mayor had mustered all his self control and lasted for a whole minute and a half before breaking his promise and began speaking-though to be fair Aizum had just passed by in an extremely eye catching suit. Walking that closely to the mayor in something that flashy was a sure fire way to attract his attention.
Reaching a hand out as if to grab at the younger man in an effort to get his attention, but being a good foot or so away it came off as more of a waive. "Aizum! Aizum my boy!" Apparently everyone was his 'boy' or 'kiddo' or many other variations. "That suit is marvelous! It looks uhm...oddly familiar...hrmm...Say, be a good lad and get an old man another glass of the good stuff, please?" He finished by giving Aizum the old "puppy dog eyes" look from behind his half rim glasses, in his hand he held out the empty cup.
Astrid looked up, she had waved to Red and her sister a few times in passing but normaly she was busy working, shopping or just wanting to get inside on the cold winter nights and into the warmth of home. Her brother had brought off her though he always seemed to want to haggle the price down abit lower, but he was running a business after all.
Fluffy made a slow and careful step forward and smelled Hope abit before playfully licking her hand, with Astrid keeping a aye on her knowing she still a abit of a puppy at heart despite being a gentle giant.
hey. Yeah, Astrid Peterson, the cottage with the pink door.
Yeah, met Red a few times.. He always refused my offer of a tea and tried to haggle me down!
Laughing slightly, thr good mood was infectious and it seemed though that thr party had a magic of its own. Unless you where a blacksmith that was. Compliments, questions about Fluffy, least it seemed this social gathering would not be too painful for a newcomer and the village was welcoming. So much more than the city and larger towns.
She's Fluffy, my sister thought I needed a companion when I left home, I had her since she was a puppy. She a softy Don, t worry.
Thank you, you look nice, I thought I Better try for thr mayor! First Big event I had chance to attend and its always fun to dress up now and again.
Everyone got abit nervous meeting relative strangers, least events with Fluffy she could pretend that her dog needed a fuss or so when she wanted to buy herself some time.
no worries... I tend to talk to my dog and hope she softens them up with puppy dog eyes!
HEY. red, il get your Iron ore tommorow afternoon. Before you sneak off!
Jude had taken to leaning against a tree close to the food table after eating his sandwich, eyes closed as he fell into a state of unawareness. All he could hear after a while was the rise and fall of his chest and the beating of his heart. His face was home to a tranquil expression, a small smile on his face. These quiet moments, he always loved them. Nothing but himself and the world slowly going round, and round, and rou-
"Hello there!" A voice interrupted his strange form of meditation.
The drifter opened his eyes, taking in the woman in front of him. She seemed to be a few years his junior, with long ivory hair and brown eyes. Jude listened as she continued on, introducing herself as Olivia and explaining that she owned the farm in town and apologizing if he had went there. She finished by asking him how he liked the village. The blond man was quiet for a few moments, as if processing her question, then replied: "... I like it. Different from the cities, seems close-knit. Been to a few other places like this."
He stuck out a hand for the younger woman to shake. "The name is Jude. I answered your ad a week or so back for a farmer. Went to the farm earlier, you weren't there so I decided to familiarize myself with the area, as it were." Jude looked around a bit, catching a red-haired girl snapping a picture of Olivia and himself, blinking a few times at the brightness of the flash. He watched as she continued on, Jude pointing her out to Olivia. "You know the redhead?"@baraquiel
The young bar keep and her new found acquaintance Astrid talked back and forth between one another, speaking about how life in the mine was and how life down in town were. The two exchanged laughter as they admitted to both of the lives having struggles. "Yes, I'll see you at the party Astrid!" she nodded watching the girl and her big lovable dog leave. Grabbing up the bowl of water she had provided for the dog she dumped out the rest into the bar sink, grabbing a mop to clean up the mess. Waconia didn't mind much, she would rather have a happy customer (even one that didn't pay) than have a pristine bar. Though, she did pride herself in having a pretty well maintained establishment despite it's age and constant use.
After cleaning up a bit, Waconia made the drink she had planned for the party, looking to her notes she read the details again:
Ice 2 tbsp red sanding sugar 1/3 part grenadine + rim 2/3 part Sambuca 2 part milk Maraschino cherries for garnish??
She decided she definitely would use the cherries, so it looked more festive. Combining all the ingredients an adult milkshake was born, a beautiful pink resembling the cherry blossoms that would soon be all over the town of Valibree. Waconia smiled, taking a sip of her creation. "Mmm, delicious." she cooed, wiping the resonance from her lips with the back of her hand. She poured that batch into a large punch bowl. She then created another version this time virgin- so the children and non alcohol drinkers of the town could enjoy the smoothie as well. It was just as delicious and most definitely as refreshing. She poured this smaller batch into a pitcher and placed them both in the industrial sized fridge.
Climbing the stairs back to her small apartment Waconia undressed herself and took a shower. She wanted to look good for the party but not overly dressed. After blow drying her hair and styling it her normal way, she adorned herself in a simple grey scaled dress and some crisp white pumps. She didn't get to wear those often, as they would be dirty within moments. She scrunched the neck of her resting cat, giving him some love and attention before walking down the steps, a small gasp escaped from her lips as she was met with Aizum once again today. She smiled, "Back again already?" she laughed, walking up to the bar. She really should have locked the door and close the place so she wouldn't have to deal with any more customers before the party at Mayor McByrd's manor. "Want to be the first to try my celebration concoction Aizum?" Waconia knew the man was blunt and if it was terrible he'd let her know. She got him a small cup, and presented it to him, hoping he'd give his approval.
About an hour later Waconia had her punch bowl pressed up against her hip and her pitcher in her other hand. She shook Aizum away for helping her, she wanted to do everything herself. After locking up the bar she made her trek to the mayor's place. Quite a few people had showed up already and the arrangement of food was miraculous. Coming up the path she noticed Red leaving, "You trying to leave before I even arrive Red?" Waconia asked, a small smirk spread across her lips as she walked past him. She wasn't going to beg him to stay, she had no right to do so- but she hoped that her being there now would be enough to change his mind. Continuing to walk past him she placed her gifts on the table. "Good evening everyone! Happy New Year!" she cheered, happily chatting with people as they approached her whilst keeping a eye on Hope like she had promised.
Astrid smiled and waved over to Waconia walking into the party, a grey dress that seemed a long way from thr bar keeps normal day to day practical attire, she could understand that fact. Life, mines, bars and mud where not exactly ideal environments for a designer dress and a nice coat. Waving over realising they probably had done the exact same thing, wearing a simple but nicely fitted cobolt dress with a nice very pale coat cut to match, gold buttons tailored in slight at the waist with a wider drop down to above the knee.
Made up slightly, black hair tidied up into somthing partly passable for a night out, she was hardly a expert at the whole female dressing up thing, more adept at identifying rock types than make up and contouring.
Hey, happy new year!
Mayor throws a good party, and nice dress, seems you do find a diamond in the rough, once you give it a polish.
Smiling, obviously trying to mean in a posetive way, Astrid was not always the best with social situations, her sister was always the social butterfly and one to seemingly float effortlessly through every Ball, Gala, party or gathering with ease. Often letting her bail her out or move things along, this time she had to rely on self and a rather adorable large furry dog who hopefully would prove as good at that as swimming.
in a good way... Of course.. Sorry... Ya know.
Quietly nervous, humans where unable to sense things but a dog always seemed to detect far smaller and subtle signs. Fluffy resting some of her Fluffy mass against her leg trying to reassure its owner. Sometimes abit silly but and a puppy at heart, raised from a Puppy and a close bond forged , Astrid could always trust her canine companion to at least try and do the right thing even If she broke a few things and made a mess now and again.
Looking round the party she saw others she saw in passing, a pair of Chickens in adorable bow toes keeping a clear space between themselves and the Newfoundland that was many times there size. Two people talking, the mayor telling stories started seemed not to end. This seemed like a good night as any.
Olivia can’t help but feel something weird about the new guy. He just seems so calm and collected yet exexrting out an aura of energy and confidence. Moreso weird because guys like him are Olivia’s type. Well, were. She admits growing her own grape orchard to support herself as well as spending time with Humphrey, Winda, Claud, and the rest of the townsfolk made her think of finding love as a non-important factor in life. After all, why think of love anyway when you live in a wonderful place filled with wonderful people?
She smiled at Jude’s opinion about the town. "Oh awesome! I'm glad to hear you like the town. Don't worry, everybody here are just so wonderful and before you'll know it, you'll have friends for life. I guarrantee it!", she said enthusiastically.
Just then she saw a bright flash that caught her eye and saw Hope taking a pic of them both. Olivia laughed a little before she replied to Jude's question. "She's Hope Redson, little sister of Wolfgang Redson, the town's blacksmith. They're both cool and awesome people, and I'm really sure you'll like them both", she said.
"Oh yeah almost forgot", she paused as she put her two fingers in her mouth and whistled. Humphrey immediately raised his head and ran to Olivia, barking happily and waggling his tail. Olivia smiled as she petted him and scratched his ear. "Allow me to introduce you to Humphrey! He's a literal bundle of joy and he's everything you could ever want to in a friend. Isn't that right, my sweet widdle boy?", she said as Humphrey laid on his back and Olivia sratched his belly as she laughed wholeheartedly. "C'mon Humphrey stand up! This charming man here is Jude, he'll be our new housemate. Now, shake paw!", she said. Humphrey immediately understood what Olivia meant. He stood back up on all fours, raised his right front paw, and presented it to Jude to shake paws.
Meanwhile, Olivia saw Astrid among the crowd and waved at her to come and welcome the newcomer. She hopes he doesn't mind but she just wants to show how wonderful people really are in this town. She also saw the adorable pair of Wina and Claud clucking their way at Olivia's direction. Looks like they're curious about the newcomer too. I have to introduce them to him next, she thought. @PrinceAlexus@Simple Unicycle@T Risket
The newcomer had a small order of a simple cup black coffee, something that did leave an impression on Grayson. After all, he didn’t even get his name, but Grayson didn’t mind that. Everyone had their own style and way of doing things, and he felt the guy didn’t seem to need to open up about himself, nor did he leave a bad taste in Grayson’s mouth. Besides, he felt he’d have plenty of chances of getting on the stranger’s good side, especially if they went to the event tonight.
And after he had given the man his coffee, Grayson turned his attention to Robin to get her order, saying hello and reassuring her that everything was fine. After her was his next customer, Olivia, the town’s wine stewardess. She’d been in Valbree for awhile now, and he had to admit, her wine was amazing. He didn’t want to sell it in the café though, partially because he felt it didn’t fit a café and partially because he felt any alcohol should go to the bar. He didn’t want to compete any more than he already had to, and he respected Waconia enough to not step over that self imposed alcohol boundary, even if it could be seen as small.
Regardless of that, he knew Olivia was a good person, and he definitely didn’t mind the extra company from her dog either. He’d gladly clean up the mess the St. Bernard could leave. Though before he got an official order, she bolted out of the café in a rush. It also seemed a lot of his samples of his cakes and pastries were gone, but he supposed that was alright in the end as he could always make more.
With everyone taken care of so far, it was finally time to start working on some meals and snacks for the party tonight. When it came down to it, he ultimately decided on 3 things: a simple Greek salad for a healthy option, blueberry muffins with cream cheese filling for a twist, and a special plate of strawberry cream puffs for the mayor. A bit devious, but it would certainly be funny to say the least. After all, the best way to start the new year was with a prank on the Mayor. And with so much food going around, it’d be easy to pin what was to come on the food simply not agreeing with him.
With a smirk, he started to write down the ingredients for the salad:
- Shredded romaine lettuce - Red onions, thinly sliced - Black pitted olives - Plum tomatoes cut into wedges - Peeled cucumbers, sliced - Crumbled feta cheese - Small sweet potatoes - Mayo - Vinegar - Confectioners sugar
He knew he’d have to increase the amount of each ingredient so that it would fit into the large party bowl just for these occasions. The same could be said for the muffins as well, and so he began to write down those as well.
Last but not least, he needed to decide on the cream puff ingredients too. Luckily, since it was for one he could write the amounts.
Puffs: - 1 cup of Water - 1/2 cup Butter - 1 teaspoon Sugar - 1/4 teaspoon Salt - 1 cup Flour - 4 Eggs Cream filling: - 2 pints fresh strawberries - 1/2 cup sugar - 2 cups whipped cream - Confectioners sugar - More strawberries - Mint leaves - Laxatives
Feeling that the rest of the town would be busy and having already served a couple people, he closed the shop for the day so that he could prepare this mini feast...
Later...
Grayson was tired to say the least, rushing to the Mayor’s place with a utility cart that was carrying his various items. The cooking had taken him far longer than he had anticipated, and while he hated being late, he felt it would be worth it when the mayor ate the items that Grayson had cooked last: the cream puffs. If he hadn’t put laxatives in them, he definitely would have eaten them all as a reward of his hard work. He just hoped he had made enough for the town, and if he hadn’t, he supposed the prank would be suffice payment.
Finally arriving, the first thing Grayson did was collapse and lean against the cart, breathing heavily from exhaustion. He hadn’t changed out of his work attire, and he even still had his apron on. He had cleaned up to the best of his ability, but he felt he couldn’t have afforded to waste more time on looking fancy as he was already late. But he had made it now, so what was a couple more minutes to rest before he could give the Mayor his food? So he sat there on the ground, exhausted and attempting to catch his breath. The aroma of his food made his stomach growl, but he was a bit too tired to move and begrudgingly began the wait until he would feel a bit better.
Astrid waved back and headed over more towards the etrence pulling her coat a little tighter and Fluffy trailing next to her sensing Astrid nerves, acting as a large reassuring presence next to her as a large furry support. Recognising Olivia from buying a few bits as food and gifts though she did not know her too well, more in a passing local way than anything, she probbly should know them better but the whole independent business owner was a real time sink.
Evening, hey Olivia.. Who,s the stranger in town... Not thay I'm a old timer!
I'm Astrid, I run the mine up near town, and she's Fluffy, the rather furry young lady.
Fluffy less trusting than some humans placed herself slightly between Astrid and the newcomer protective instincts kicking in earning a small bit of fuss from Astrid stroking the back of her neck.
She is slightly protective of me, I've had her since a puppy. Hope you find this place welcoming as I did
Watxhinf thr party seem to still be gathering, the village must have been larger than she had seen, some she knew on site, others where alot more unknown and likely farmers or those who live outside the village. Noticing two chickens pecking about in adorable bow ties. Fluffy had taken badly the forst time she used more than a coller, and probbly be lost in her thick fur anyway.
easy Fluffy... Easy.. It's OK.. I'm here girl.
Watching the two chickens carefully and keeping a eye on Fluffy, slightly unsure how they react, you never could tell with animals, especially in busy social situations. Fluffy was still inexperienced with things and needed a little disapline at times.
Hope, having been caught up in the picture she had just taken of Fluffy, was brought back to reality at Astrid's words. "Oh-" She looked over in the direction of Olivia who was still waving Astrid over. She gave a brief chuckle at the mental image of the strange newcomer being surrounded by the two girls and both of their large furry friends. "-Well, tell Olivia I said Hi for me. And here, a New Years present just for you." Hope said before their final goodbye as she gave Astrid the picture of Fluffy.
Scanning the growing party with her beaming smile Hope was looking for her next photography subject or someone else to chat with when out of the corner of her eye she spotted Grayson arrive with a literal cart full of goodies. Knowing it was just a matter of time until said cart was emptied by the townsfolk who couldn't resist Grayson's cooking Hope quickly made her way in that direction while grabbing a drink along the way. She almost took one of Waconias tasty looking concoctions but then thought water would be the safer choice for what she had in mind.
She had reached the cart only to find its owner sitting on the ground trying to catch his breathe. Naturally Hope snapped a quick photo of the currently sweating red faced hot mess that was Grayson. Using the developing picture as a fan she lightly waved the soon to be picture back and forth infront of her face while grinning down at Grayson. "You look like Red after a couple of hours in the forge." She offered him the glass of water "And that's not a compliment by the way."
Turning her attention to the cart itself her eyes danced across the muffins and salad before finally coming to rest on the three heavenly looking Cream Puffs. Without asking she took one and took a healthy sized bite before making a sound one might mistake for indecent "Oh my gosh-" She said between chewing "-sooo goood"
"What's good?" Came a soft mouseish voice followed immediately by the answer of a more assertive and just slightly rougher sounding "Grayson's food, stupid." Yet again a different voice chimed in without skipping a beat, this one as clear as the last but with an upbeat inflection that was clearly trying not to sound annoyed "Don't call her stupid, stupid."
"Listen to your sister." Came the deepest and gruffest voice among the approaching group. If the voices weren't recognizable the sight of the family as they made their way up the last few steps into the party sure was-it was the Rosemonts, an almost stereotypical family consisting of local farm owner Hawthorn and his three daughters.
Knowing the family rather well since she often made the trip into town to buy produce from them face to face Hope could tell right away that it would be best if she quickly diffused the slight tension between Daisy and Lilly before it grew into something worse.
"Daisy is half right though. Grayson's outdone himself yet again! Here, you gotta try these Cream Puffs, you can have the resta mine Daisy." She gave her a wink. "I know your not scared of cooties."
Hawthorn, seemingly having lost all interest in the conversation of the young, merely gave Grayson a nod and grunt of acknowledgment along with an actual "Evenin" for Hope before stomping off in the direction of Mayor McByrd. Based on the large wicker basket strapped to his back and filled to the brim with with the last of his winter vegetables it was clear he was looking for a spot to unload his contribution to the party.
Red had felt himself literally cringe when called out by Astrid-luckily no one else, specifically his sister, seemed to deem it worth trying to get him to stay. He couldn't say he blamed them.
He had been making his way down the steps just as Waconia was on her way up. "You trying to leave before I even arrive Red?" she asked with a smirk as if already knowing the answer.
Red found himself biting his tongue as that was exactly what he was doing-it was just his luck to run into the one person he didn't want to see (but actually really wanted to see) just on his way out. Before he found the words to respond she was already continuing on up the steps and Red was suddenly mentally kicking himself. He was extra glad he was leaving the party before he could look even stupider.
Taking the last few steps a bit quicker he was just in time to see Grayson doing his best to take his cart, which was made for flat surfaces, up the stony flight of stairs. Making eye contact with Grayson Red almost offered to help but then just kept walking, fully determined to not be drug back into the party.
While everyone was at the mayor's place partying and the streets were empty, one figure walked through the night, barely making a sound as they moved. On more then one occasion, they stumbled as they walked, even falling over once or twice. Each time though, she slowly got to their feet and kept on walking. If anyone was around to see the figure, they might have describe their behavior as almost zombie-like. Moving more on instinct then having any particular goal.
Thankfully, no one was around to stop the small figure from reaching their goal. It had been a whole week since they had fled from the city into the country side. A week of following voices and dreams, the kind of things only madmen might think real and follow. But they knew the dreams and voices were real. It might've been blind faith but they knew it for certain that they were not fake, but messages of hope. So they had walked, and walked, and walked some more. And now, they said the figure was almost to the end of this part of their journey.
Eventually the figure reached the mayor's house and stumbled into the party, the arrivals met by a one last message from the voices:
Rest, young one. You've made it.
Needing no more encouragement, the figure passed out on the spot. Any who noticed and possibly came to investigate would find a young girl, probably early into her pre-teen years, possessing pale blond hair and just as pale skin. She was wearing a simple white t-shirt, a pair of jeans, and a pair of sandals on her feet, though like the girl herself, they were a mess. Torn in several places, covered in dirt, and generally looking like she had been trekking through the woods for several days.
Should anyone feel the girl's forehead, they would find it dangerously hot.
As Astrid spoke, Waconia let out a hearty laugh. She knew what the girl meant exactly. Their type of work wasn't usually prim and proper so the moments they got dressed up it was impressive albeit rare. "You look absolutely gorgeous Astrid, don't apologize. I know what you meant." She gave the girl a festive thumbs up, and a grin. She didn't want the girl to feel like she had misspoken or said something inappropriate. Waconia was thankful thought, that Astrid was going to go speak to some of the others- it meant that Waconia hadn't made it too awkward, at least not yet. Maybe after a few drinks it would become that way, but as of right now she was just fine. She downed a drink and then a quick one right after before heading to Grayson's cart of goodies.
"It looks amazing as always Grayson. You always outdo yourself. Try my drink too? Maybe we can even work together on something something." Waconia said as she filled her plate with a sample of each item he had brought. Floating between the party guests she chatted and nibbled on her food and thought about her interaction with Red at the entrance to the party. "That guy has some nerve.." she thought as she took a hearty bite out of a cream puff. The cream squirted out the back and right onto the front of her dress. Waconia made a face of great distaste as she flicked the cream off her chest and onto the ground. "He even has me ruining my nice dress.." she growled as she picked and rubbed at the stain, getting most of the residue off.
Her eyes wandered to a young child who had wandered into the party. She wasn't familiar but Waconia would admit that there were several people she had yet to meet in town, especially those of the younger variety because of her work. She smiled, hoping the girl would make herself comfortable and grab something to eat and drink. Waconia's smile dropped instantly as she watched the girl drop to the ground. Waconia placed her plate on a table as she hurriedly walked over to the young girl. A crowd had gathered as Waconia pushed them slightly out of the way. Leaning down she checked over the girl who was still breathing, but barely. She was clearly exhausted and filthy, traveling for who knows how many days, "Does anyone know who this girl is?!" Waconia exclaimed, looking around for some answers. Several people shook their heads while others went to go find something to help, others stepped away to avoid responsibility.
Aizum had ignored the old man, not caring if it was rude, he just thought he didn't exist. As he looked around, he saw that finally, he fit in with the crowd.He looked around to see some familiar faces, mostly just the bar tender, (And the Inn Keeper?) and people he frequently saw at the bar. His shoulder's dropped, less tense. As went to get a drink he saw the girl that wondered into the party, a little under dressed, but still, where were her parents...
Then she collapsed, his eyes widen, he dropped the drink, and immediately ran over, checking her pulse, checking if she was dead, he saw the chest move, and he sighed. It was a long hard sigh, a dark one, but loud, loud enough so people could hear. He knew what he done, rolling his eyes while he said it, " Hey, little girl, you dead? Want a drink? You drink wine? Or are you hungry? We've got some small sandwich's."
The exchange in the general store was short and sweet. alexander was shown exactly where he could retrieve his necessary items and in the moments he entered he exited thanking Ms.Abernova. Diva followed close behind Alexander as he sang his wy back to his shop, He had considered stopping for breakfast but the thought was soon perished as he had realized he had to make something for the old mans gift."Hmm maybe a beyond fashionable jacket to compliment the hat the he spent five ever talking about before he actually bought it" Diva craned her neck to look at Alex as she gav a confused, "KWEH."
Walking pas the odd looking peacock he smiled as started in on the door before saying, "KWEH? KWEH? How dare you, you know EXACTLY what im talking about unless of course you are KWEHING why i smiled, caus in that case it was funny too see a peacock crane its neck, you are one confused bird". Alex said as he opened up his shop took a seat at his counter. Grabbing all of his necessary materials Alex had begun to zone out as he had began his work. It wouldnt take long before he pumped out a dozen colored designs
Now came the fun part, Alex though to himself. To actually make these designs, Alex had begun working like a man possessed it wasnt long before he created his idea of the perfect mix of "eccentric and BOSS". Diva looked over at him and spread her plummage in great delight at the sight of the jacket. mayors new jacket it was awesome to look at it was pearly white with an interior made of a newer material that would retain a cool feeling even in the warmer weather to come. The material looked almost like a red snakeskin.
It wasnt long before the party was soon to be underway and as alex looked at the clock he realized that he was destined to be fashionably late...as if there were any other way to be. Alex took his time readying diva first as he took extra special care in treating each of her delicate feathers. a process that was normally time consuming. but after all was said and done she stood wearing a light teal colored tie tht had shimmering edges and an embroidered light blue V in the center. Alex's outfit was was quite complimentary of what Diva wore The shirt beneath the vest was a silk deeper teal than Divas tie and the vest was a solid black with crushed velvet light teal flowers. He fixed his hair and straightened it letting it fall to his shoulders pulling a small bit forward before adding a a pair of steampunk goggles to proverebially "Set it Off" and set it off they did. Grabbing a look at him self in the mirror and diva even he had to GODDESS BE DAMNED, DIVA...WE LOOK GOOD, HIT THE MUSICHe exclaimed as diva had pecked the cd player blasting the "Damn we look good track"
It was about an hr and half past and that was when Alex and Diva had left strutting out of the door Alex draped a bluetooth speaker over Divas neck and played his music as they both strutted down the street toeard the mayors place. his gift in his hand.
The walk was short and there were a few townfolk straggling in last minute. Maybe they had the same idea as him fashionably late is always best. "Of course thats what they thought it made the most sense. Alex had seen a younger lady much further ahead of him going toward the mayors house, but she was walking a little off kilter. Alex did read in a Magazine that kids were eating laundry detergent pods but didnt think such level of foolishness made it this far. Shaking his head free of the thought he allowed the young lady to to continue her trek into the mayors placee without disturbing her. Little did he know that he would not be able to upstage passing out at the door as he approached in time to see Ms.Wheatley and Another Villager helping the young lady up at the gate. "Is she alright" he asked unsure of what happened. @MissCapnCrunch@Joshua Tamashii@Typhon
