The sun is just barely peeking up on the horizon far below when workers and vendors start to converge on the Street of Flowers and Firmament, also known as the Spine of Anthegenia and simply 'Main Street', the widest, longest and most central street of the city. Naturally the Spine has been chosen as the site of the parade that would be one of the highlights of the Festival of Journeys.

In preparation for the festival, the entire street has been cut off from regular traffic from swift riders and gliding chariots. Ribbon streamers of yellow (for the Maiden of Journeys) and sky blue (for Vanileth) flutter from banisters and street signs, many affixed with feathers and talismans pleasing to the Maiden and god so that they trail like miniature kites. All along the main street, lamp-posts bear rectangular yellow, blue and white banners printed with clockwork wings framing a stylized depiction of the Palace of the Founders, and the ornate words Festival of Journeys 3516 beneath it.

Only a few refreshment stands or market vendors are open just yet, and the myriad floats and flying machines to participate in the parade and demonstrations are still in their hangars and garages, awaiting final preparations. Here and there wander kite-bearers and performers in bright costume, pilots or mechanics in uniform or jumpsuit, merchants looking to beat their rivals in taking up the best street locations, and of course festival enthusiasts who just can't wait for dawn!

Bakeries and tea shops happily open an hour or even two earlier to take advantage of the extra business, so there are plenty of places to sit, chat and wait, or try to get a peek at some of the floats or machines before they deploy...

---

OOC: Have a last minute float idea? I'd be willing to let you write one up, either as a NPC, or just a submission to me in PM. I will be incorporating several ideas given to Sophia at the Garden, either way. :)

Professor Marek came early in the morning to set everything in order to do the show of forming models. Marek tested them half the night and their work was flawless. Marek hoped Mitsumi would be able to see them in action.

All the set up took him an hour and everything was ready for the moment the parade would come. Marek couldn't move from this place until the models were presented to lord Vanileth but fortunately he could still contact Mitsumi to know how she was doing, so Marek begun casting an Infallible Messenger spell directed to Mitsumi.

- "Good day Mitsumi, everything has been set for the automatic forming designs we designed. I've tested them all night and they are working perfectly, I hope you have the time to see them in action."

Comet was early too, he had bought during the weekend a quite simple dress. After asking bit around what would be 'festival theme' colors, knowing it was yellow and blue he have bought a dark blue loose pants and yellow vest. He walked on the festival, mostly taking sights around him and he bought small paper bag full of biscuits.

With bit envy he looks up on the delicate framed 'second level' and folks using flying devices. He sighs.

No money for buying one, nor having skill in piloting the artifacts anyway. Perhaps simple airship ride?

This early in the morning, Mitsumi has managed to devote some time to the ground level preparations. Though she takes care not to observe the floats, she cheerily advises varied judges as to which prizes are available, and provides the occasional bit of guidance as well. After all, since she is responsible for the awards, it would not do for her to indicate any preferences...

She remains a fairly visible figure as she finishes with instructions and supplies, pausing a moment to respond to Marek's message. "Wonderful! I certainly hope so, though my own contribution will be fairly time consuming and require much attention on my part." Once matters are well in hand, she begins to excuse herself, having more work to complete elsewhere and little time left.

Comet was walking on edge of the street, make way to the carriages and numerous vehicles which moved prepare for the festival parade. He then noticed Mitsumi, after moment hesitation Comet lifts his hand, waves and speaks loudly; "Morning professor Mitsumi!"

Professor Marek couldn't wait for the parade to start so he could join those in the sky level. He spent some time last night preparing Wings of Gold for the aerial competition and she was pleased to know she would be stretching her legs after so much time.

So Marek waited to be the one who stand guard with the models for Vanileth, even when he could've just assigned a group of Dragon-Blooded to guard them for him, but fortunately Marek was happy enough to not mind this task much, for he was finaly able to complete the core of his project and now it only needed two other components in the shape of Hearthstones, he had already detached his Stone of Sorcery and placed it on the top of his staff.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:21, Fri 02 Oct 2009.

Clematis was also a early riser. He was even happier to wake his lunar mate from bed for an early lecture on the proper way to act. But more importantly is was always a good thing to get Mattel to be the lunar he needed him to be.

The solar walked the streets picking at the people walking by. Clearly he was a man to be respected. He was a walking god... or least he feels like it. The man is surrounded by four exalts, his lunar mate, three highly decorated dragonblood officers, and a over a dozen maids, butlers, soldiers, and other random groupies. He and his entourage all wore fine clothing marking them as part of his staff.

Clemantis chest was poked out showing who cared the insignia of the Deliberative. A long white and red trimmed cape. A golden sign of the Dawn caste was very bright on the back as well as the small golden crown that adorned his head. The rest of his outfit consisted of whites and pale reds (calling it pink would probably anger him). A large orichulum breast plate covers most of his torso.

The man and his entourage are walking taking in the early morning Clematis see the Professor Uthar. When he does he smiles and whispers something into Mattels ears. "Let us see how you are percieved when I am around young friend."

He grins momentarily before putting on more of a smile.

"Good morning Marek. I trust all is well." He looks to his right. "This is Mattel, he a student at the academy."

- "We've met, he is one of my students of Terrestrial Sorcery and he helped me contain an unruly water elemental earlier on this week. Definitely a talented Sorcerer." Answered Marek, knowing how much Clematis was annoyed by those who were smarter than him, even if they were only a few years on their exaltation, worse if they were not exalted. Though seeing them made Marek wonder where his own Lunar mate could be, his mystical connection to her was one of the weakest and the last time he saw her was in his previous life, which meant not knowing exactly how she looked, if it was possible for one of the Lunars to look the same after so much time.

"Oh really." His eye brows raises somewhat.

"That's interesting." He looked at Mattel with a look thats said, "We will talk later about it."

"So what are you doing out here so early? And where are the other professors? They are probably teaching things that do not go with the Deliberative." He said smugly.

He folded his arms and began to look around as if he was looking for someone.

 Strolling among the early Festival goers, Truth is dressed in a array of garments of various reds and oranges, with a long sash of azure cloth hanging from his shoulder. His black cowl had a few white feathers tucked into one side as a sort of 'rakish' fashion accessory. Looking over the few stands setup so far, he regards the craftsmanship carefully, taking an unusual interest for an Exalt. His mask has been reduced to a domino style,with a series of opaque veils concealing the rest of his face, hanging down far past his chin.

 He glances up, catching the train of sycophants of the Lawgiver, and he resumes his examination of a set of crystalline mirrors intended to light a space unobtrusively. There is no flash of memory, no recall of a past meeting. Frustrating perhaps to someone expecting to know who that important being was, but Truth seems content to shop at the moment.

- "I'm in charge of one demonstration for Lord Vanileth. Professor Mitsumi and I created something for the festival and we used a revolutionary technique in metal alloys, this is a secret technique, so that's why I'm personaly overseeing this demonstration."

"Too bad I'm not as powerful as I used to be in my previous life, Clematis was always scared to death of me, being one of he last surviving Exalted from the first generation." Marek thought while trying to supress the urge to make this idiot know he was, that could probably be from Atanar's own memories about him because this was completely out of character for him.

- "You would certainly be surprised by what we are teaching here. We aim to make each student capable in the areas which they chose to learn. You can certainly agree that capable Exalted are a boon for the Deliberative. And speaking of it, I've heard they approved new funds for the crafters of Tzatli so they could improve I AM." Said Marek in a very casual tone that was surely going to annoy the air-head, and wondered why the Unconquered Sun chose him. Bright at least could be understood in her oddities, but Clematis was completely useless without a weapon.

Mitsumi pauses and waves back to Comet, then walks towards the young Exalt. "Good morning and merry Festival, Comet," she begins, "It's still somewhat early, but you can already see that this is going to be an event to remember. I trust you've been doing well?"

She waves expansively at the scurrying work around them. "I am probably quite superfluous here, but still, it's a pleasure to see things working out well - and my time to exert myself will come. Besides, selecting prizes was quite an interesting exercise. Are you participating?"

After his solar mate spoke to him and gave the disturbing look, Mattel was ready to leave the area. His good friend could go without his presence for a while.

"Clematis, if you don't mind."

He was sure the terrestial exalts would give him strange looks like they always did. But he put them in the back of his mind as he thought of them falling from a really high place. But before he could be stoppped he turned, shifted into something that flew, and took off to the sky looking for more pleasant company.

Clematis regarded Marek as he spoke and found himself wondering who this professor Mitsumi was. Then as the professor was speaking Mattel exused himself. He wanted to learn Mattel soemthing right there. But he had to remain social.

"Funding for I AM, I wasn't aware of it. I'm sure Tzatli is doing the right thing." His sacrcastic tone had set in.

He waved off the conversation. But he did find the energy to mock the professor.

"He talks of funding to improve a working system." Just then he laughed and turned his head around.

"Yeah funding!" echoed the fire aspect dragonblood as he laughed. The entire entourage began to laugh in groupie unison.

"And despite what you may think. I am not suprised by what the academy is teaching. That is why I recommended Mattel attend. He is smart and capable of much. But in order for him to see and hear what I can not, this place would teach it to him. Also he would get a chance on how not to see the world as a celestial exalt. Do you really think the teachings here go unseen in the Deliberative?"

He laughs.

"Yeah, go unseen!" echoed the earth aspect as the entourage joins in laughter.

"But I am glad one with your reputation and connections are here. There is truly hope for the students." He finished with a matter of fact tone.

Comet smiles and replies to Mitsumi; "I have doing fine, just bit wondered when you were day off from your class. Nah, I am not participating in any the races. As it is better not me to try with skill what I have now. I either break the vehicle I am using or get someone hurt when riding animal or beast which goes out of control."

- "Believe what you may think Clematis, but I clearly remember how your life was saved once only because you were able to send for reinforcements thanks to I AM. And at that time it was slow, imagine how much more soldiers could've survived if I AM was as fast as it is now, and how faster and more effective it will become in the future."

Marek then directed himself to Clematis Dragon-Blooded assistants, and though Marek never used is possition as a Lawgiver to lord it over others at this time he thought it was needed, no matter how bitter it left his mouth.

- "You are fortunate that I'm usually ignore hierarchy since most of the time it's only a social construct that slows the development of events, but at this time I will make an exception and tell you that when there is something that you don't have the slightest idea you should keep quiet instead of embarrasing youselves. Your laughs only show how ignorant you are in the buissines of the Deliberative. But then I wouldn't be surprised by what you learn under the wing of somebody who preffers to kill what he doesn't understands, a behaviour more fit to a Wyld Barbarian than a Prince of Earth. Bright Shattered Ice may be a harsh teacher but never a neglectful one." Said Marek to the entourage of Clematis Dragon-Blooded while giving him the look he always gave him in his previous life, knowing that even if he wasn't as powerful as Atanar he would still remember what happened when he didn't backed up, and Bright Shattered Ice was always a name even most elder Solars feared.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:22, Sat 03 Oct 2009.

Spotting Professor Uthar's distinctive. . . clothing, Pebbles temporarily abandons her position higher up to fly down to his level.  Waiting a moment for his rant to pause, she lands on the shoulder of the Warstrider.
"Hey Professor!  Good luck in the races, I've got two obols on your to beat Desus so don't let me down!" she tells him cheerfully, giving Marek Uthar a 'V-for-Victory' handsign through the adamant shield of the cockpit.

- "Hi Pebbles, I'm totaly going to defeat Desus, Wings of Gold and I have been practising our flying movements." Said Marek, feeling more comfortable with the idea of the race, that put aside the annoyance Clematis was.

Instantly the dragonbloods shut up and regained the composure as officers. Clematis waved them to the side.

"Go grab some snacks or something. And while you are at it, grab some bananas. Mattel seemed upset and I prefer him in a better mood when he is around me."

The entourage departs from his immeadiate area. They are silent and professional as they leave and continue to do so well beyond sight and sound.

Looking back at the professor he gave a simple, "Whatever".

Before he could continue what he was going to say this "Pebbles" shows up. She was a sight. Clematis was shock at her lack of poise when talking to a professor. For him to even address her by a nickname was even worse. Was this his mate? He sure hoped so. But even so, she should show mroe restraint and respect when in the presence of himself. Truly the academy was in far worse condition that he thought. Cleamtis face was clearly shocked, confused, and border line angry.

Stepping up the face Pebbles he barked out.

"How dare you talk to this solar exalt with such disrespect. You dare not say exuse me and introduce yourself to myself as well. This kind of behavior should not be tolerated." He turns to face the professor. "Am I to expect this my entire visit? Is this even your mate to address you so poorly?!" He turns back to Pebbles. "What is your FULL NAME?!"

At this point his caste symbol shines faintly and his chest is slightly poked out as well.

"The first New Moon in the year has a number of interesting geomantic properties," Mitsumi explains, "And I received word of a nearby locale where excessively useful reagents might be obtained. Unfortunately, such matters are critically time dependent, and coming there too late would have been as good as not going there at all."

"As to classes, I'm sure professor Serene Orchid performed admirably - but if you'd like more instruction, I can certainly try to help as I may."

She smiles cheerily, too far from the float docks to be aware of the trouble there. "Well, even if you won't be participating in the races, do enjoy the procession and other amusements. I'll be a bit distracted much of the time, maintaining one of the more remarkable entertainments near the Central Plaza. But I'm sure we'll be a ble to see more of each other at the Banquet, at least."

- "She is allowed too or I would have done that. And I don't know if she is or is not my Lunar mate, as you may remember my connection to my mate was one of the weakes and I haven't seen her in this incarnation so until I know who exactly is she I will never feel the connection. This is a place where you can relax from the protocol, give it a try, you will like what you learn from it."

Rana arrived at the festival wearing what might have been, by style alone, clothing fairly suitable for travel. Flowing trousers in a pleasant shade of light brown, streaky hand-dyed silk, cuffed at the ankle. Delicate sandals with soft suede straps that criss-crossed across her feet. A vibrant green vest that smoothly followed her slim form patterned with abstract patterns resembling leaves or feathers. A sheer blouse several shades paler than the vest with long, loose sleeves cuffed at the wrists. She wore a wide, rectangular stole, hand-dyed in brilliant greens and pleasant browns, draped loosely around her shoulders and pinned in place with an orichalcum brooch. Gold earrings glittered at her ears, peeking through her loose, un-styled hair. She carried a well-worn walking staff in one hand and Arya bounced at her side.

Smiling cheerfully, she looked around for Keo, waving at the occasional acquaintance, with a particularly brilliant smile for Mitsumi.

Comet nods and replies; "Maybe, I have informed I may come to the banquet but I prefer keep my schedule open in case if something dramatic occurs which will occupy my time. But tell me, what you know about eternal vows between Solars and Lunars? I heard the oath is more a 'curse' for Lunars, what they mean with that?"

"Oh I am sorry Sir." Pebbles answers blithely, grabbing both his hands and shaking them vigorously.  "I'm Five White Pebbles, Lunar Student.  I've only been here a few weeks so I'm still learning new customs, where I come from it's inappropriate to speak to one's superiors until permission is given, so I didn't want to disrespect you by presuming."

While her eyes stay respectfully fixed on his, her familiar's eyes, which she's currently borrowing, rove over him for any loosely attached valuables. . .

10:16, Today: Five White Pebbles rolled 2 successes using 8d10 with the White Wolf Exalted system with a target of 7 with rolls of 6,7,2,7,3,5,6,6. Charisma + Presence.

When the professor spoke the solar was trying not to find ways to pull his body apart and break a sweat at the same time. But when the bold student exersized her poorly executed manners, he felt a bit more relief. At least she tried.

In a tone a father would take his own child, "There there my dear. We all can't be perfect. But as a lunar you must stride to be what you never will."

The solar smiled as if proud of himself. is attitude took a turn for the worst when he faced around to Marek once again.

"Now that was better but now you know where to start. She clearly needs classes in how to act when elder 'solars' are around. I trust you will take a more active role in that. I would hate to leave here with a feeling that you have somehow become lazy with standards of conduct."

Before he goes into lecture mode he takes a breaths thaty seems to instantly calm him. He takes that energy and faces the young student.

"You will recieve tutelage one day. And that day will be sooner than later." He glances back at Marek. "Now I will exuse myself to find myself a snack."

Turning fast and sharp like performing drill and cermony, he leaves and heads towards the ealry rising food vendors.

Barely glancing as Clematis passes by, Truth finishes his window shopping before ambling further down the way, taking note of what he assumed as a fellow student from her appearance and the professor she was talking to. He had familiarized himself with student portraits with I AM when the weekend had begun, to be sure he would recognize his classmates.

 He approached Marek and Pebbles, head angling up toward the magi-tech splendor being prepared behind them, then settling back on the professor and student.

"I wonder perhaps if our esteemed elder Solar could enter the flight competition powered solely by all the hot air he generates. Maybe if he pinched his nose and held his breath?"

- "If the air competition accepted that kind of motion he would be invincible. There is a lesson to learn, thanks to him, etiquette is important in official meetings, but only for that, the rest of the time you don't need it. And Clematis does all that to hide the fact that his only good skill is at breaking stuff with his daiklaive, I've known unExalted far more wise and smart than him, so much for his "perfection", if we were as perfect as he claimed we wouldn't have castes. But he always tends to forget we are all brothers under the Sun and Moon and chosen to make creation a better place."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:28, Sun 04 Oct 2009.

The clear pre-dawn sky brightens to a pleasant azure as the sun continues its ascent. From high above, sleek shadows are thrown at an angle toward the ground, as ships of all makes and materials coast in from all over Creation to alight on the sky platforms and rooftop landings set aside for them.

More booths open up, filling the morning air with the scent of crepes on the griddle, of pies and pastries filled with fruit and cream fillings, and for those with more carnivorous tastes, chunks of fresh beef, fowl and fish, as well as other more exotic game, fried in strips or barbecued on sticks for easy eating. Fresh fruit from the East, from the Orchard Isles and Anthegenia's own garden-manses are put out on display, basketfuls of berries or slices of apple, citrus or melon.

Shops from the Student Center and beyond put out their festival wares: robes of light cloth and fanciful patterns, pinwheels and music boxes and ornamental masks, commemorative figurines and ribbons, handmade firecrackers and noisemakers, divinity requisition badges dedicated to Vanileth and to Mercury. Other booths offer sales on transperfect domestic tools, clothing and items woven of fine Essence silk, jewelry ranging from woven grass and beads to fire opals and ocean pearls, rare and exotic thaumaturgic reagents, specialty crafts from every major nation of Creation.

The streets are growing busier as well, filling out with excited mortal families and couples, Dragon-blooded or God-blooded soldiers and bureaucrats enjoying their day off. Of the mortals and created races, most huddle with their own kind, so one may pass by nomadic peoples commenting on wares in Flametongue, branch-dancers marveling in Forest-tongue at the marked lack of foliage, and people of the air flocking together to chatter in their native Skytongue.

Here and there are other Celestial entourages on foot, Solars and Lunars easily singled out by their gleaming orichalcum or moonsilver, Sidereals somewhat less so in sparing, muted starmetal. One young Solar woman, accompanied by a pair of attendants she seems to be attempting to lose in the crowd, wanders the street as if lost, or looking for someone.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:22, Mon 05 Oct 2009.

- "Pebbles, I'm seeing one of the Lawgivers, young by how she carries herself, searching for something or lost. Could you give her a hand?" Marek asked politely to the Lunar student.

Said young woman has shoulder length hair of an auburn color. She wears a matched orichalcum bracers and breastplate of ornate, leaf and flower inspired design, a finely woven tunic of essence silk of a medium blue edged with silk rope hems, embroidered artfully with peony blossoms in a dark pink and white along the sleeves, a short white silky skirt that reveals athletic looking legs, and sandals that lace up her calves. Her daiklave, the hilt silk wrapped and the butt of the pommel shaped like a roaring dragon, is sheathed at the wide belt that cinches her tunic around her slim waist.

She gazes up at the sky as the airships go by, and Princess Sophia begins her speech. Her green eyes have a solemn, distant look to them as she touches a hand to her heart. No one would know what her wish is from staring at her, but she smiles up at the brightening sky. "Maybe today," she says aloud!

Stopping that long allowed the two in tunics embroidered with a dragon and peony crest to catch up with her, and the young Solar sighs and hangs her head. "I know Crane is worried about me, but I'm not going to be reckless, okay?" Her attendants - armed in jade, so likely Dragon-bloods - look markedly unconvinced.

---

OOC: The crest symbol is that of the Hungry Dragon Prefecture under its new ruler, Edged Blossom. (With a Lore 2+ you can also know that Blossom's previous incarnation was a well known hero who founded Deheleshen, Yellow Terror Dragon. If it fits I would happily allow a PC to be the new incarnation of Terror Dragon's mate, however you'll need to ask about it in PM.)

Deciding to avoid drawing too much attention, and avoid a possible collision with the various skyships taking off or flying low, Keo decided to finish the last leg of his journey on foot, which delayed him somewhat - he had planned to use the Transcendent Phoenix Pinions he had rented in order to make a spectacular entrance, but his natural temperance had got the last word.

The saphir-like stones on his moonsilver-plated pinions still faintly glowing from the flight from his Manse, Keo joined the Festival, looking for people he knew - and one person in particular.

]

Eyes lighting up as she spotted Keo, Rana waved excitedly and ran in his direction, adeptly dodging through the crowd, Arya moving just as smoothly at her heels.

"Hi! Isn't this exciting? There's much more to see than at the banquet to open the school.

"You look really nice! Can you fly with those? Are you going to enter in one of the contests? I think it'd be neat, but I don't have any idea how to use anything like that.

"Do you think this outfit is okay? I went shopping this weekend and Professor Mitsumi gave me a Infinite Resplendence Amulet and I have one for you too she gave me. It's really neat. Wasn't that really nice of her?"

She fished said amulet from her pocket and offered it to Keo, looking poised to continue talking until someone interrupted her.

"Eternal vows? Quite the heavy topic to be considering so early - but I'll be glad to lend what perspective I may."

Mitsumi pauses, collecting herself, then begins to recite.

"When the Unconquered Sun granted His power to the mortals Chosen to battle the Primordials, he was not the only one to side with humanity. His eternal, ever changing companion, Luna, was another. Much as the Two were above, they hoped that their followers would be thus below."

A flicker of expression, too quick to read, and she speaks naturally again.

"That is where history begins, and more than a few disputes. What is known is that each of the Solar Exalts was paired to a Lunar, that they might recognise and seek one anothre out through years and lives."

"And that, much as the Moon follows Sol, Her Chosen find it... difficult... to deny their mates. Though this is a grievious simplification of what amounts to centuries of philosophy and discussion. Still, the bond remains, and its effects are undeniable, even when they are undesired."

"For rebirth binds past power to a new person, with new dreams and ideals - but the bond does not know this. Only that one who was once a statesman and artist will retain the bond to she who was his muse and concubine. Though he may now be a general, needing a bloodthirsty champion to cow wild tribes."

"We are the mutable, fluid ones, driven to change into these things that are demanded of us. It is not always pleasant to find that your will only goes so far when facing the dictates of the Incarna. Still, when all is said, the Exalted are human, and so the dictates of the gods are not absolute."

With a broad gesture, Mitsumi dismisses the topic for the moment. "But enough of that. This is, after all, Festival time, and a time for merriment and thanks, not digging out past troubles. If you want to speak further, I'll be glad to help you as I might, but for the moment duty calls."

She pauses thoughtfully, then adds, "Do you intend to view the procession from the Pavillion? It's bound to be quite remarkable from there, and well worth the ascent."

Comet listens what Mitsumi says, nods and smiles to her while replies; "Sorry from weight of the subject, it's just that what I had wondered while. Although I knew it exchisted and what it did, I wondered what for it was and what it actually meant. I do plan hire a simple airship for a ride, so need time it right to get good view from the above. Anycase return to your duties, I will continue my humble wandering for while more."

 Truths head turned to look at the Solar Marek was pointing out, and he turned back as Pebbles bounced off. He offered a gloved hand to the Twilight Professor.

"My name is Evident Truth....transferring from the White City...I'd made sure to check on the staff of the Academy and I'm starting to see why none of them have a great deal of time invested in Deliberative functions before or after choosing to teach here...."

- "It's true that I'm among the group that spends less time in the Deliberative but I always make sure I'm present for voting important laws. But let me present myself, I'm Marek Uthar, professor of Sorcery-Engineering at this academy."

The streets are now teeming with spectators craning their heads up while holding pastries or grilled meat sticks in their hands, or a printed program and map showing all the major events and locations for the Festival. Many more are finding their way to lifts and balconies and still higher up toward the airship rides, while those lucky enough to have their own wings make their way up on their own power.

During the Priestess' prayers, the more devout among the Festival goers pause to pray as well, whether with a moment of silence or by following along with well-known hymns. Not everyone is so religious, though; plenty of others continue on with conversation along the sidewalks, haggle with merchants, ogle at fabulous skyships (particularly the Invierna or the Conquest, and the mighty thousand-forged dragon) or passing Exalts in finery.

Dianora steps onto the streets wearing a fashionable wide-brimmed hat and a low-cut, slinky dress in dark blue, embroidered with graceful silvery cranes and trimmed in contrasting red cord. Her high heeled boots do their customary click click click on the pavement as she walks along with a jaded expression on her face. She'd been living in Anthegenia for decades now; this is just another Festival, not a big deal.

The Lunar does have some interest in the races, though, and has brought with her a cadre of accountants and bodyguards, all of them clad in monochrome black and white so as not to draw eyes away from her beauty. Voluptuous in figure, with shoulder length white hair and a single, starkly contrasting crimson streak down her bangs, Dianora cuts an eye-catching silhouette.

Of course she could have flown in like the other prominent Exalts, but why do what everyone else does? She'd arrive on her own time, and in her own way. For the moment the proprietess of the Bath of Silvered Midnight is content to prowl the streets, giving her people directions all the while. Some of them split off into the crowd as she walks along, and she doesn't bat an eye.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:24, Tue 06 Oct 2009.

The young Solar seen earlier is still wandering the streets, sighing about not having a flying artifact of her own. She pauses, seeing another Lunar pass by - at least, she seems more interested in Lunars than others - but when she calls out is summarily ignored.

Sighing, she looks around for the nearest Exalt who will pay attention to her, and meets their gaze. "Excuse me?"

---

OOC: Thought I would nudge NPC activity down here a bit more. But now I'll wait till tomorrow to post.

Rajha arrived on the ground level again, exiting from the shuttle with her new wings on, only to see the new and hopelessly lost Solar wandering the area. As the Solar met her gaze and spoke, she gave a cheery little smile.

"Hm? What do you need?"

"Oh, hello," says the auburn-haired Solar, looking at Rajha. A relieved expression crosses her face, though she seems a bit dismayed, as well. The young woman's two attendants, a man and a woman clad in blue and red, respectively, stand a couple steps behind to watch Rajha closely. "I am Edged Blossom. Do you live here? This is my first time being on a floating city - at least the first time I remember in this life, I mean."

"Argh, how embarrassing, I don't want to look like a tourist." Edged Blossom grimaces at the thought. "Actually, I'm trying to find someone important to me. It's probably too much to hope she is here though. Her name is Fair Xiulan. Do you know the name?" she asks hopefully, speaking loud enough for others in the vicinity to hear.

Rajha bowed briefly to Edged Blossom, as usual not noticing the dismay from the young Solar. "I'm Rajha, a basic student at the Academy. It's nice to meet you, Edged Blossom." She then grinned at Blossom's complaint. "Don't worry about it, I'm told I look even more out of my element."

Rajha then pondered a moment, before trying on a bit more flowery language. "I see fair women all around me, and not least one right before my eyes, but I do not know any Xiulan."

"It is a pleasure to meet you here in your element Professor. I'm afraid my familiarity with the science of our time is...somewhat patchwork. I had hoped to sit in on a class regarding magi-tech, but I can see that you are focusing mainly on sorcery and sorcery engineering for focused students...still perhaps between that time if you don't mind an inquiring student once a while..."

 Truth gestured back at the wondrous floats and devices in the staging area. He continues speaking to the Solar even through the prayers, though he does glance up to view the proceedings through the clutter of airborne objects.

As Evident Truth glances up toward the Pavilion, he notices a woman in winged armor of pure orichalcum on a nearby platform, standing near the thousand-forged dragon that caused such a ruckus earlier. His gaze is drawn by her, as she removes her visored helmet and reveals a banner of warm, golden brown hair caught in the wind.

Edged Blossom laughs easily and smiles at Rajha. She doesn't seem at all bothered by the compliment, though the smile doesn't quite reach her eyes. "Oh, well. I figured not. Actually I feel kind of like an idiot just wandering around here hoping some magic ray will hit me out of the blue and I'll find Xiulan. But wandering aimlessly around the world for her seems less productive than trying at a gathering of Exalts."

"Maybe I ought to ask one of the elders... or professors? But none of 'em are paying me any mind. Figures." Shrugging, Edged Blossom runs her fingers through her auburn hair, and looks up distractedly at the pavilion for a while, seeing all those richly-clad luminaries gather there. Especially the gorgeous dark haired woman that looks encased in flames. She shakes her head incredulously. "I inherited a whole province, I bet that's not even a big deal among our peers and all. I've still not quite got the hang of being that jaded. What's school like here? I'm being privately tutored... it's kinda lonely, really."

Rajha chuckled, and her eyes followed the glance to the woman in winged armor. Dammit, she thought she'd be used to all the gorgeous men and women around the Academy, but today there were more and more popping up everywhere she looked. She quickly returned her attention to Edged Blossom, guessing that that wasn't Xiulan.

"Well, it's different from how I used to live. I spend a bit of each day going to classes with three or four other students, take meals in the dining hall, and other than that I spend time reading, practicing with my sky-cutter or sometimes studying with the other students. We basic students sleep in the dormitories." She shrugged. "If I inherited anything, I haven't been told about it yet. I still don't know much about the Exalted."

- "When I first came I was hoping that I would only have to teach Sorcery-Engineering, but there were no other sorcery professors here, so it fell to me the responsability for teaching sorcery to the students. Since I was one of Brigid's students in my previous incarnation and Bright Shattered Ice taught me again what I had lost. My engineering class is for teaching the most important principles of artifact creation so I think it will serve you well. Today you are going to see one of the results of my investigation."

When Comet parted with Mitsumi he wandered around, just checking stores and such. But then he noticed large crowd moving along the street and others moving out of the way. Mere second later he saw who was leading the crowd; Dianora.

Comet's heartbeat grew faster, he has not yet 'made his mind' yet about Dianora. Nor he had found out much at all about the people what Dianora requested learn more about. Comet did not hide but neither he approached Dianora, he just watched when she walked along the street.

 Marek finds the Lunar student craning his neck up for a moment, and seems frozen, his head cocking like a bird at a strange noise, one of his gloved hands clenches, and there is the squeak of leather grinding against itself with all the strength in a mortal body before it stops, and his head swivels back to the Twilight Professor.

".......investigation you said? Some kind of flying machine or principle of air movement that Vanileth hasn't dreamed up yet?"

- "It's not specific to air travel, when it's ready to be presented it will be considered one of the fundamentals of artifact crafting." Answered crypticaly Professor Marek.

"I see....less spectacle, more fundamental shift..yes. I imagine that would elicit more than the usual fanfare..and probably very close scrutiny from your fellow sorcerer-engineers...."

 Truth seemed to be interested in the conversation beyond mere politeness, but Marek could see his body was unconsciously having other ideas as it began to step from one foot to another...perhaps the glorious attraction of such personalities was tugging at the younger, less resistant Exalt.

Keo was taken somewhat unawares by Rana's flurry of statements. He accepted the Infinite Resplendence Amulet, and replied as best as he could: "Why, yes, I did fly from my Manse to here, but I decided that the air traffic was a little too dense for my tastes - I'm more used to flying under my own power, and I was still somewhat ill-at-ease with this device. That's why I didn't register for the contest, as I originally planned."

He examined at the amulet. "That's indeed quite generous of her, if I recall correctly those are quite expensive... But I wonder if there is a subtle message here, like 'you should get a make-over'... I don't recall being that badly dressed during the etiquette course," he jested.

"Well, we live a long time," Edged Blossom answers Rajha, giving her an envious look as she talks about spending time with other Exalts, whether studying or just dining. "There's plenty of time to figure out exactly what we're about. But if you've already started using your Essence powers you already know some of it. Honestly, I don't actually think the business of how to act like an Exalt is something anyone really knows. There's etiquette, there's expectations, but the rest is all in your head."

She shrugs, her gaze again drifting up to the pavilion with a small sigh. "At least that's what I think. As for inheriting stuff, I just happened to be Exalted from a previous shard that did a lot of things. Those're pretty big shoes to fill." Again Edged Blossom peers at Rajha curiously. "Where are you from? My domain is Deheleshen, in the East... Technically, all the areas around it, too." She says this so nonchalantly it may as well be about the weather.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:06, Thu 08 Oct 2009.

Sails of Fortune arrived at the Festival scene just in time to see all the flash the elder exalted. Still he wasn't as impressed as the others around here, he spent most of his life in Yu-Shan, where wonders like these were commonplace. He still wished to mingle among the other chosen around so he went to find them.

While more and more Exalts gather in the Aerial Pavilion and below, the first floats begin to hover out onto the streets. They've yet to reach the start line of the Parade, but the movement is enough to attract an excited cloud of celebrants carrying kites, streamers and other Festival favors toward the forward end of the Street of Flowers and Firmament.

Above, low-flying battle cruisers painted over with bright Festival colors and ornaments fly toward the start line as well. What purpose they may have has yet to be surmised, but no doubt will be part of the upcoming display. Somewhere, a band of brass instruments and marching drums has started up an energetic melody, piped through the streets by unseen amplifiers.

All that's left now is for Vanileth to show himself, and the Princess to kick off the parade!
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:23, Thu 08 Oct 2009.

Dianora seems quite preoccupied herself, but her connection with Comet is much too strong for her to pass by and simply ignore. She pauses, seeing the young man there, and waves her people aside for a time while she approaches him. "Good morning, Comet. I must say it is rare I am awake so early! Now, I hope you've got yourself a good set of evening wear, because I'll be at the banquet and I'd like you there as well."

She doesn't seem to be aware that Comet might be surprised at the difference between day formal and evening formal, or that there has to be a difference. Rather than explain further, the Lunar with red-streaked hair dips her fingers into her cleavage and pulls out a freshly crystallized hard mote, printed on the surface with her crane-and-moon symbol.

"I know, you ought to have one of these already, but a basic salary just won't get you far. Have fun with this, but not too much fun, okay?" She hands the hard mote to Comet, pats him on the cheek with one hand, and before he can protest starts walking away again. "Don't worry, dear, we'll talk again more soon." Click click click, the White Crane walks away with her small army of assistants and bodyguards, headed for a nearby lift upward.

In reply to Keo Wan Sul (msg #52):

Rana shrugged and said, "I suppose it's possible. She didn't say anything like that. I think she just wanted to be nice."

Briefly, she was distracted from the conversation to look around, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Will you enter in the contest next year do you think? Maybe I could, even, depending on what I learn in the next year. That'd be neat, don't you think? I doubt I'd win, but it still would be neat."

As airships gather above, and crowds, wares, and more do the same below, a heavily cloaked figure emerges somewhat tentatively from the streets, its origin roughly in the direction of the Academy. Covered from head to toe in elegant, flowing fabrics, Morning Glow peers intently at the Festival's many manifestations.

Carefully, lightly, she steps into the main thoroughfare, dazzled and distracted by each new thing in turn. But most of all, what has her almost spinning in circles is the people. With a mixture of shyness, fascination, and embarassment, she follows different groups or people for brief periods of time, alternating between intent observation and hiding her eyes behind a fan.

In time, her erratic course leads her towards the Central Plaza, where much more is sure to delight and dazzle her...

Edit: Confusing Grand Courtyard and Central Plaza.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:45, Thu 08 Oct 2009.

Sails of Fortune, who was also wandering around aimelessly managed to physicaly cross his path with that of the Lady with the Fan, he was walking backwards, trying to get a view of everything here when he felt a strike behind him and turned back to apologize

- "I'm sorry, I didn't see you there. I was watching the entire festival and didn't pay attention to where I was going."

A startled shift, layers of cloth moving aside to reveal others beneath, a glimpse of pale white fabric. Then Morning Glow regians her composure, her gloved fingers adjusting her fan to hide the coverings of her face, flickering patterns of green quickly dismissed as it snaps shut.

She bobs her head, almost turning it into a bow, and steps aside demurely, inviting Sails to pass freely with a twist of her gauntleted wrists. Still, her posture and quick, partly concealed glances suggest that she is not altogether displeased to have met the handsome Sidereal - though she has not uttered a single word over the course of the exchange.

Reading anything into Morning Glow's actions is a challenge, for she leaves no eyebrow uncovered to quirk, no lips visible to smile or frown, not even a stretch of arm to reveal or hide - all is covered, clothed in Festival colors and silence.

 Truth watched as the floats began, and made sure he was clear of the parade path. The flux of attendees conceals the movement of his sister, such is the vastness of the lower ground level.

 The unnerving pull of the gold winged Solar near the Thousand Forged Dragon is trying to find purchase on his almost limitless patience, and even with all his will, it may win soon enough...

- "From what you just did with your hands I take it you would like that I follow you. Am I correct?" Asked Sails of Fortune, trying to understand the meaning behind the Lady's hand gesture.

"I doubt I will have much time to practice with personal flight artifacts this year," he said. "Perhaps in a couple of decades. Who knows, perhaps by then I'll be flying an artifact of my own design! I'd have liked to have something I built myself in Vanileth's honor, but my project is still in its infancy... To be honest, I don't exactly know what I will be doing, except that Professor Uthar requested a flight device..."

He realized that breaching the subject might trigger another breathless flurry of questions, and so quickly shifted topics. "Perhaps we should rejoin the festival proper. I'd like to see Vanileth. Is the Aerial Pavilion opened to visitors yet?"

"Umm... I think so," Rana said after a second's thought.

"But don't we have to be able to fly to go up there?"

Firmly, with only a trace of disappointment, she added, "You should go, if you want to." She certainly couldn't fly, and neither could Arya.

"Let us now commence the festivities with a parade in honor of Journeys and Flight!" echoes Sophia's voice from the Pavilion, amplified by her Pectoral of Resplendent Speeches. Bang! go the signal flares, and the parade floats lift off from the ground one by one to start their way across Anthegenia's spine.

Almost simultaneously, the painted battle cruisers open up their hatches, releasing scores of athletes and soldiers hand picked for their aerial dexterity and acrobatic skill. Mortals in jump harnesses and Essence-users in belts of aerial mobility leap down in colorful costumes onto the floats below. Nimble, sure-footed dancers, emerging from the interior of the ship on rising platforms, release kites of avian and insect motifs into the air, where they flutter upward on the gentle breezes of Anthegenia's eternal spring.

Not every floating exhibit is directly related to the theme of the Festival, though every one of them is donated by a group or company with some interest in travel or flight, or simply in profiting from attracting visitors to the city. There are floats displaying aerial reenactments of moments in Anthegenian history, artificial dragons and other mystic flying creatures belching smoke and fire, beautiful models on pedestals exhibiting avian-themed costumes paired with extravagant, flight-capable wings, and more.

One float consists of little more than hovering rings and platforms, navigated by lithe acrobats in spangled jumpsuits and levitation belts, performing increasingly daring aerial leaps and tumbles. Another appears to be entirely made of greenery: a bed of living flowers of every hue of the rainbow, climbing vines twined around elegant arches and menagerie statues, platforms grown from bonsai style trees on which flower people wearing dragonfly wings play stringed and woodwind instruments. The Emporium of Aerial Conveyance's float is a tame cloud behemoth staffed entirely by gorgeous air elementals, throwing out flight-themed party favors and gift certificates to cheering crowds.

---

OOC: Ok Marek, go ahead and write out your float. :) Anyone else with a float idea can pitch in, too, though if you personally created it, it ought to be something you would have had time to prepare.

The Aerial Pavilion has been open to visitors for a short time now. But as Rana pointed out, you'll need to have some means of personal flight to be allowed on the Pavilion, too.

I should also note for you grounded folks that you could take a lift or walkway up to "In the Air", you just won't be able to float freely. Instead you'll be limited to the sky bridges and balconies, unless you go and rent an airship ride or a flying artifact up there.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:12, Fri 09 Oct 2009.

Rajha shrugged. "Well, I learned most of what I know about Essence on my own, so maybe I'll pick up my place like that as well." She paused and listened to Blossom's question.

"Where I'm from? I'm from the Deep Southeast, near the Bordermarches, but more than that I don't know. I couldn't find the homeland of the People on a map." She blushed a bit, switching, perhaps unconsciously, to Forest-Tongue. "I'm still learning to read a map in the first place."

"Pardon me Professor, I'm afraid I must ascend for the time. I hope to see your  secret work at the festival soon sir."

 With that, Truth  took a light step back, stretched, and shifted effortlessly into the form of a dazzling white feathered Strix, and quickly gained altitude through the maze of floats, and flying ships, heading toward the Aerial Pavilion.

Morning Glow peeks at Sails over the edge of her fan, then quickly raises it before her covered face, the green material adding an additional, and quite unnecessary, layer of concealment. She begins to nod vigorously, then pauses, and shakes her head instead, taking care not to unsettle her clothes.

Lowering her hands, she extends her gloves palms towards Sails, then moves them aside and to the left, while taking a careful step or two to the right. Not far from where the two stand, the excitment in the Central Plaza reaches it peak.

"Oh, you speak Forest?" says Edged Blossom, suddenly breaking into Rajha's native language. Rajha can tell she is not well practiced with it, but is still trying. "Teacher said I need it, when making friend with peoples of far East."

"...And I sound terrible, sorry." She returns to using Old Realm. "Anyway, in the Far Southeast, now what did Crane say? Oh! That would be somewhere past Rathess, I guess? The Dragon King lands? The largest Deliberative outpost over there is the Adamant Oriole Sanctuary. But your People may call it other things for all I know. I'm learning, too!"

The auburn haired Solar gives a smile and a shrug, then gets thoroughly distracted for a time watching the floats go by. "There's so many amazing things in the world. I feel sad that most people will only get to experience these wonders from the outside."

"So, Rajha, don't you want to head up for a bit? I was thinking of entering the races. If I did that maybe Xiulan would notice me... if she's here."
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:04, Fri 09 Oct 2009.

Just after sending the greetings message to all the dignataries the parade started, Professor Marek headed the procession and when everything begun to move he discovered what was under the fabrics.

Those who viewed it didn't understood what the pile of plates meant for a festival dedicated to air, but then the plates begun to float in the air and every step that Professor Marek took forward the pieces begun to join, first the skeleton and the inside parts, interiors and structures of what appeared to be five different models of great flying machines, one of them an indomitable sun conquest platform. Just near the end of the designated area for the parade they completed their merge and Professor Marek begun to fly surrounded by the five models and completed five circuits of flight around those present so everybody could se the human-sized ships disarm and reform themselves, showing every detail of their structures.

It ended by Marek standing just a few feet flying outside the platform where Lord Vanileth was watching the show and with one single command of Marek the five models fused their structures permanently and then Marek, who was shining by all the essence he spent for the show, made the models fly to Vanileth.

- "Lord Vanileth, the people of Anthenegia wish to present this gift to the ilustrious Shogun of Artificial Flight, he whose gifts enable the people of Creation to thread the skies and see the wonders of the land from above." Professor Marek recited while the five models approached the god.

Comet, surprised from amount of cash what Dianora just almost with shrug gave to him! He had never got this much money, having not even idea is there what limit what he can use it! But then when Dianora departs his heart lunged to go after her, but he calmed himself.

I see her later at banquet anyway. Evening wear? That's quite....formal. But consider the quest involved I need to be in my bests I guess.

Comet then carefully placed into inside vest pocket the hard mote and starts look on clothes store, which haves very stylish men clothing or tailors available.

Sails of Fortune nods to the lady and begins to follow her out of the mass of people involved in the festival.

- "I'll follow you to Yu-Shan itself." Said the young captain

Keo looked pensively at Arya. "You know, I'm in pretty good shape for a bookworm, and I could have carried you up there in no time, but I don't think your friend would enjoy the experience," he said. He held out his I AM terminal, searching for a means of conveyance for both his Solar mate and her pet, looking up to see the parade's beginning. "Oh snap, it's already starting!"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:07, Fri 09 Oct 2009.

Comet comes across an outdoor booth attended to by a pair of lovely Dragon-blooded women, one with vibrant red hair, the other with elegant black hair. The booth is marked with an ornate sign indicating a name that only recently he is now able to read completely. Thalia, the Eminent Weaver, it says, with a beautiful stylized rose incorporated into the logo.

He remembers from previous excursions into the Student Shopping Center that Thalia's clothing are the highest rated in Anthegenia and beyond, both in quality and for definitive fashion trends. With his small student salary he could not hope to afford such clothing, but Dianora's hard mote and a good student discount may well be enough for him to buy something truly impressive.

And from what Comet knows of Dianora, she would desire only the best...

Flitting through the air, Wave looks for the ADF amongst the hangars the sheer masses of people making even that usually quite simple task difficult. Everything about this ceremony was far grander than what she'd become accustomed too and so some old sensations were creeping back, wonder being one that was happily welcomed, but the feeling of being lost in the crowd was one she was less pleased to have to deal with.

Luckily she'd taken the time to memorize their colours and badges and when she pauses to catch her bearings spies the banners fluttering off one of the hangars where the craft are just now going through their final stages of maintenance, pilots waiting impatiently in the cockpits or nearby to be cleared. Swooping down past the heads of the crowds she snaps her wings back to splay them open and drag herself to a halt, feet lightly touching the hanger floor before the crystalline wings shatter and the spray of essence shards wind themselves up around her and back into the shape of a shawl while her dress itself shimmers and is replaced by an ADF flight suit, a little short-cut she'd had put in for an almost trivial fee. She hurries off to find her craft, moving with her usual kick of speed so she won't be found late.

"You're looking for something to wear young Lawgiver?" starts the black haired Dragonblooded woman, a smile gracing her pale face.  Her voice matches the rest of her appearance, eloquent and refined.  Her hair has been expertly curled into series of ringlets, each held in its place by a tiny diamond pin.  Her dress itself seems to be woven from a particularly lustrous thread, definitely not silk, or any other fabric Comet might know though.

"What is it that you are looking for?  Something dashing for the races?  Something for the banquet tonight or just something to wear around the festival?" she continues on.  "Whatever it is, I am sure we have something which will suit you."

Comet was caught on staring the clothes through the view window, he then smiles to Perfect Opal and replies; "Uh, yeah. I am looking something truly impressive and unique for tonight's banquet. But also something what is in around or bit under value of this hard mote." Comet slips out and show the hard mote what Dianora gave to him.

I hope she is not too much upset me spending loads of cash for a good set of clothes, but I get feeling she does not mind burning cash so long it is truly impressive set of clothes.

Rajha shrugged. "Maybe. I could do some checking later if I wanted."

She offered her arm. "Sure, let's go."

<To: In the Air>
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:55, Sat 10 Oct 2009.

"Right, let's go!" Edged Blossom prepares to ascend with Rajha, but rather than using wings, she draws her golden daiklave, which extends smoothly into the shape of a Windblade hovering close enough to the ground for her to step on. This makes it rather awkward to be arm in arm, but they make the best of it!

--> To the Air, with Rajha!

The parade continues progressing down the main street of Anthegenia. Since the start of the parade a marching... or rather floating band of ADF soldiers has joined in, dressed in their ceremonial uniform indicating the army they belong to (there are five total in Anthegenia, one named for each Element). With drums and brass instruments of all sizes, they play traditional marching tunes common to the forces of the Deliberative as well as Anthegenian anthems and rearrangements of contemporary tunes.

More floats follow from behind, including a platform of circus performers complete with sword juggling tightrope walkers and trapeze artists in brief, glittering outfits, followed by a fanciful chariot pulled by automaton gryphons and pegasi. A series of floats represents each direction of Creation, decorated to represent local climate and major landmarks, staffed by waving figures in full costume. An Academy-themed float carries a model of the Administration building, surrounded by origami flowers and fluttering paper cranes tended to by Registrar Aurelion, while an unusually somber looking Remilia distributes fresh baked goods to the crowd.

The air acrobats navigating the floating rings continue to astound with their daring feats of dexterity, while the flower maidens at the Garden start throwing fresh blossoms to the best dressed among the crowd. A mishap with one of the belching dragon-machines causes a small fire that is quickly extinguished, but otherwise the parade is a hit with the citizens!
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:07, Sat 10 Oct 2009.

"Mmmh, I don't think that you would leave Arya alone on the ground, I doubt they make personal flight artifacts for dogs, and as far as I know you've not had piloting lessons with an airborne vehicle... Which leaves us with but one choice," he said with a grin.

He took her by the hand and led her to a more secluded location. Once he was reasonably sure that no one was paying them particular attention, he turned to her, and started shifting into his war form - his clothes seemingly melding with his fur, leaving only his wrist and ankle bracers and the Transcendent Phoenix Pinions, which had flowed and expanded to accomodate his enlarged shoulders, the blue cristals glowing faintly.

Kneeling down, Keo formed a cradle with his large arms. "Hold on tight, you two, the journey will not be long, but it will be impressive," he said, motioning them to come into his embrace.

Rana followed Keo to the secluded alley, smiling, her eyes alight with curiosity. Curiosity turned to pleasure and excitement as Keo shifted form.

"Why not?" She was surprised, actually. Exalts made artifacts for practically everything.

She settled into Keo's arms, reaching out for Arya. "No wiggling, okay? You don't want to fall." He ran to join her and She wrapped her arms around him. "Alright, I think we're ready." The dog seemed fairly inclined to obey, though he was also clearly picking up on her excitement.

She liked Keo, she trusted he would keep her safe, not because of their bond but because she knew he was a good person.

Securing his two passengers with a firm but gentle embrace, Keo fired the device, which projected brilliant wings of silver light, and he took off, ascending carefully and doing his best to avoid running into the dense aerial traffic or cutting the parade, of course.

He let Rana get a good view of the landscape of the floating city before heading for the Aerial Pavilion.

[OOC: to the aforementioned place, unless there is some incident ;)]

"Wow!" Rana exclaimed, looking around excitedly, though she was being careful not to move too much. She had her arms around Arya, just in case it was necessary. From above, the city was even more fantastic, if such a a thing was possible.

"I want to learn to do this on my own someday!" she added cheerfully.

<to Aerial Platform>

"Truely impressive and unique?" her eyes seemed to sparkle with a smile.  "Then, sir, you have come to the right place.  Do you have ... ah," she held out her hand to inspect the Hard Mote, before she returned it to him for the moment  Dianora, hmmm?  Now what would she be wearing this evening.  Since she will be expecting inovation at this festival celebrating it, perhaps she will go back to basics.  Something in black or a very deep purple ... so the young lawgiver here will need ...

"Please sir, step this way," she gestured for him to step forward and through the privacy veil which surrounded the shop, instantly muting the hubbub of the crowd.  "May I enquire as to your caste?  And how are you enjoying the festival and our fine city?" Opal enquired, as she started to look through one of the rails of clothing behind the front of the booth, still conversing should the solar wish to talk.  Occasionally pulled outfits from the rail, putting them on an initially empty one.  A suit apparently made from a bolt of white gold--not woven strands, but actual sheets--gleaming in the light, was just one of the selections.

As Wave moves in to find her craft, she also finds Marshall Sanguinus and the rest of Blackjack Squadron, getting ready for their big show to start. "Hey, here comes our missing Sergeant!" Iblis calls out, while fastening the collar of his flight suit and waving for her to approach. "Come and get ready, we'll be taking flight pretty soon now - matter of minutes, in fact. We're making final checks to make sure the crafts are all in top condition. Be prepared to give your best up there! There's lots of guests waiting to see this, and even the Lord Vanileth is watching... So let's all give 'em something they'll remember, allright?"

Iblis makes one final round of the Squadron, personally approaching each member and giving each and every one a shake of a hand or a pat on the shoulder, as a mean of one last encouragement before their big moment on the stage. Once that is done, he salutes, and heads straight for the Firebrand, his own Artimisia class ship. The engines start to roar slowly, raising quickly to an almost deafening level, indicating that the whole squadron is soon to take to the skies. On the ADF channels, the unmistakable voice of the Marshall is heard, calling to the Control Tower.

"Blackjack One to Control Tower - Control Tower, this is Gambler. Give the word for us, will you? Blackjack squadron is about to take to the skies. And make it pleasant enough, if you can? Don't want to look like a bunch of slobs in front of Lord Vanileth! I'll buy you guys donuts later, okay?"

Taking a deep breath the Marshall, looks ahead, and then to the skies.

Mercury, my dear Lady, may your graces bless our flight.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:55, Sun 11 Oct 2009.

Comet walked inside the store after the pretty dragon-blood. While she checked the dresses he replied; "I am Zenith, so far I have liked the city. Have not seen anything like it before, although I spend most of the time in the academy in here so during this festival I am actually walking around the city a lot."

Wave leaves her helmet off as the engines fire up, she wasn't worried that she'd need it and thus her hair wasn't going to be subjected to the shame. The loud rumble of engines was very gratifying though, when all the squadron had their essence engines fired up the sound was almost deafening to those outside.

Her head raced with the sequence of manoeuvres she'd had drilled into her over the past week. It hadn't been a lot of time and along with practising for the races and keeping up with her lessons she'd pushed herself to near the limits of even her own exalted stamina, but if she grew stronger from it all then it was worth the effort.

With an eye on the craft she'd be tailing out, Wave gives an okay symbol to the ground crew and waits for the show to take to the skies.

"Yes, I've heard the teaching schedule can be quite demanding.  What courses do you take?"  she continued her practiced chatter, making sure Comet was at ease.  The next outfit she pulled out was apparently made of white silk, a relative rarity for the booth.  The thing that marked it for what it was was the embroidery.  Threads of sunlight from the Southern sun added detail and completed the trim.  "Please let me know if anything catches your eye."

Comet replies; "Well, quite several classes. Mostly focusing on social interaction, martial arts, mental endurance, athletics and history. But also rest schedule is going with my personal training time like participate as assistant in basic martial art classes." When Perfect Opal pulled out white silk outfit with southern sun embroidery Comet said; "That looks nice, do you have trousers and jacket version of this?"

"A busy schedule for certain, but I'm sure it will be rewarding," she nods.  "This is a suit, sir," she pointed out, apologetically, unfolding it a little so he could see the two parts of it clearly.  "It might need some adjustment, but I think it will fit you well.  Now, to go with it... will you be wanting a shirt?" Perfect Opal left him to think on that and examine the suit as she moved off to find belts and other such accessories.  She returned with a white leather belt, a stylised bull making up the belt buckle.  "I'm going to suggest you go quite light on the jewelry, perhaps just a simple gold disk for here," she indicates a natural focus point of the sunlit embroidery.  "Or perhaps a hearthstone, if you have one," she concluded.

Comet replies; "Well, I do not have hearthstone yet so some small disc there would be nice. No shirt please. I prefer wear it chest exposed if possible. I guess I also need suitable shoes or boots along with it."

Perfect Opal nods, picking up a simple looking broach, a single perfect circle of Orichalcum.  This she deftly affixes to the jacket at the focal point of the design.  "I'm afraid we don't sell shoes here, sir, but if you try just two booths down, they do excellent footwear there.  I would recommend some boots, in a polished leather.  But if you'd just like to step in here," she indicates another interior part of the booth, hung with more privacy veils.  "And I can see what adjustments need to be made.  You'll be able to pick the suit up before the end of the festival."

The ground level parade has moved past its central point, leaving in its wake a host of colorful streamers, baubles, unclaimed coupons, flower petals, feathers and glitter for the Sweepers to claim at the end of the day. The floats continue toward the end of the Street of Flowers and Firmament, some of the lead ones turn away down side streets to return back the other way, toward the hangars and garages where they will be stored for next year or disassembled. Others continue on toward the Academy Courtyard where they'll gather and stay on display as a remnant of the Festival Day for a short time.

But the excitement of the Festival of Journeys is not quite over yet. Acrobats, musicians and models retiring from their respective floats join the Festival goers cheering and gawk at the Artimisia's flight demonstration. Air Marshal Sanguinus is both a consummate pilot and an experienced showman, and the Blackjack Squadron has practiced ceaselessly for this very moment. Every time the sleek warbird/striders pass over the city streets faster than the speed of sound, leaving colored smoke and the roar of essence engines in their wake, the people let out an excited shout, pumping their fists or waving their Festival ribbons and banners. Children propped up on their parent's shoulders squeal wave in delight at the flying machines, the pride of the floating city Anthegenia.

It's coming time for the Races, now. ADF soldiers in their ornamental Festival themed uniforms start clearing the streets and guiding the celebrants toward pre-arranged vantage points for the Race courses all around the city's broad perimeter. Others hurry toward lifts and walkways to try their luck squeezing into a balcony position or snagging one of the last airship ride tickets. The unlucky still get a chance to glimpse the races through live broadcasts from recorders of everlasting glory placed along the race tracks, playing back on screens of liquid jade and moonsilver set up at select information kiosks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:46, Tue 13 Oct 2009.

Comet nods and moves to the booth with Perfect Opal. He removes his simple vest but leaves pants on. So Opal can get accurate measures of his body so she can adjust the clothes what Comet bought. While she took measures on him he asked; "So how about you? Do you get time to enjoy the festivals while you work today?"

Perfect Opal measures and adjusts Comet's clothing with deft and professional ease, securing folds of fabric with diamond pins, her Recorder of Everlasting Glories on her wrist recording measurements as she goes.  "Oh yes.  I haven't been here all through the festival, I've been working the booths in shifts with Glorious Carmine and the others in Lady Thalia's employ," she says with a smile for the young lawgiver's courteous concern.  "And I have tickets for a ride aboard the Harlequin this evening."

Comet then recalls something and said; "Hey, is it possible still get tickets on good airship rides? I would like get good view from above the festival, especially during the races. Know where I could buy some quickly after we are done here?"

"I wouldn't know, sorry," says Perfect Opal.  "I bought mine quite early this morning from a wandering seller.  I'm sure if you were ... accidentally ... to flash that Hard Mote around, then you would find the queue was rather shorter for you," comes her reply with a smile.
[edit for spelling]
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:26, Wed 14 Oct 2009.

Comet smiles and replies; "I understand, I come pick the suit when festivals are almost over and time of the banquet approaches. Will you be there?" Comet starts dress his vest again once Opal has taken measurements.

Opal gives a small shake of her head as she finishes recording the last of the details for the suit.  "Not at the banquet, no."

"Enjoy the rest of the festival, though, and if I do not see you later, the banquet too."

Comet nods, and when Perfect Opal is done he says to her; "Alright, thanks from helping me find my banquet clothes. Have a nice festival." Comet leaves the store and then moves to nearest airship stations, hoping he can catch a ride in above the air during the races.....

Rey pulls the wide-brimmed hat from his head so that his hair may flutter in the breeze. This floating school is a wonder, it truly is. The people he passes come from all walks and ways. The long boots and riders coat offering protection from the light bite of the breeze, as Rey walks past a visiting northwind delegate. The races were underway and Rey was wanting to catch a glimpse as they whirled down the tracks. It had been a while since he had seen this many people that weren't in a parade or combat. Non-military life was going to be an adjustment.

The view of the races from the ground leaves something to be desired. The Medium Race competition is difficult to see with all of the airships gathered around the track to block the airspace. The Expert Race is in a deep canyon, so to get a look at them, Rey would have to head to the perimeter of the city, and hope for a spot on the crowded city railing overlooking the canyon.

Fortunately there aren't that many people to weave through on the way there, as most everyone's cleared out for higher ground, for better vantage points or to escape the loud excitement of the race for a quieter venue. Rey walks through streets strewn with discarded streamers, feathers, slips of paper and other bright, shiny items, being greedily swept up by workers emerging from the Undercity.