#when gridanias pumpkins look beautiful

[wystaria-garden]

Fruit Foraging

[dane-ffxiv]

Prompt #9: Fair

It was late in the afternoon when Dane bid farewell to her friends. They all had business to attend to in Gridania, turning in contracts or shopping. It was the latter for her–she wanted to browse the stalls for last-minute seasonal items. The transition from autumn to winter meant the warm candles, pumpkin treats, and maple commodities would soon be replaced with anything and everything Starlight.

The air grew colder with each passing day and the lush greenery of the city had turned into beautiful sights of orange, red, and yellow. Although the cold was something she never looked forward to, she welcomed it as her 'slow season'. It also gave her plenty of time to prepare for her favorite Starlight event.

The sun began to disappear behind the trees, which was her cue to finish shopping. Satisfied with a haul of seasonal teas and tomes to keep her occupied in the coming weeks, she left the stalls and wandered through the city. Although she felt disconnected from Gridania, walking the dirt paths and people-watching was nostalgic– it reminded her of old times, relying on it for entertainment when she ran out of tomes to read. But the area was mostly deserted. She only noticed merchants packing up their carts to leave for the day. It was painfully quiet.

“Oh well,” Dane exhaled and let out a curious hum. She stopped in front of the Leatherworker’s Guild, deciding to take a break and spend some time alone. She placed her bag on the ground and leaned against the fence, gazing at the gray clouds above her. They carried another cold front, no doubt.

She continued to hum her tune from before, a song she performed during the summer moons when she felt the most liberated. The shorts, the flowy skirts, the sandals and flats… oh, how she missed it all. Not to say she didn’t love her autumn wardrobe of warm, oversized sweaters. But she craved the sun on her skin and the feel of ocean waves. Right now, she could only stare longingly at the cold ocean in front of her aquarium and yearn for it. She’d have to hold out for half a turn.

Dane’s lonely thoughts of a long-departed summer lasted until the streetlights illuminated the paths. She snapped back to reality and noticed the merchants were long gone. She was completely alone, causing more uneasy feelings to stir.

Tears stung at the corner of her eyes. She attempted to push them away by humming louder and moving away from the fence to dance. Though, she was unsure why she became emotional at this particular moment. Today had been a good day, right? It wasn’t fair– she had been trying so hard to heal and move on. But life wasn’t advertised as such. And her own existence continued to prove it.

With one step forward and one step back, her body slowly settled into the rhythm of the tune. She paused and scanned the area to ensure she was still alone. Looking like a fool in public wasn’t on the agenda today. Once the coast was clear, her humming ceased and she began to sing.

♪ ‘Now take me back to that summer day… Tell me how you took a hold of me…’ ♪

Dane relaxed and clutched the fabric of her skirt, exaggerating the flow to give her dance more purpose. A slow spin in place, and another in the opposite direction. The chorus of her song repeated and in her head, she replayed the memories of performing it.

♪ ‘It feels like yesterday… Now take me back to that summer day…’ ♪

She came to a stop near the bridge as her song faded into the quiet night. Tears had clouded her eyes and she quickly raised a hand to wipe them away, not realizing at first what was happening. 'Don't do this, Dane. Not here..’ 

She looked ahead and froze, abruptly pulled back to reality as she noticed someone across the bridge. They stood quietly, watching her. Her sadness was immediately overtaken by the embarrassment of being seen. She was in her own world– they could have seen her pathetic performance from start to finish.

“Sorry... Sorry. Excuse me–” Dane cut herself off and immediately rushed to retrieve her bag when a hand grabbed her wrist. That person approached her and they were fast– their grip was strong and it terrified her. She instinctively dropped the bag and turned towards them, attempting to throw a punch with her free fist. She wasn't quick enough, though– they blocked it and took control of her other arm.

“Ah– hold on, lass! It wouldn’ ‘ave been pretty if y’ managed t’ land tha’ one.” The voice belonged to a man. He spoke casually, as if he weren’t holding her in such a compromising position. She didn’t offer a response to his words or even make eye contact. Despite his relaxed tone, she even struggled to breathe. 

The man noticed how frightened she was and loosened his grip, not letting up entirely. “Aye, tha’ was one hells-of-a right-hook. I… saw y’ singin’ an’ dancin’, but I could ‘ave easily mistaken y’ for a fighter after tha’ li’l maneuver.”

Dane slowly glanced up at him and noticed he was smirking. Was this a joke to him? But being so close to him now, she noticed his features– he was a Miqo’te man, likely a bit older than her and definitely taller. He didn’t look dangerous, but that meant little to her. She already had a proper first impression of him after he restrained her so easily.

“No words, hmm? Do y’ only sing then?” It seemed like he wanted to get a rise out of her. She maintained her composure the best she could, given the circumstances, and straightened her posture. With a swift tug, she freed both of her arms and took a step back against the fence. She wanted to think of some witty response, but nothing came to mind. She looked down at her wrist and touched it.

“Ah…” That was the only response he offered as he rubbed his neck in embarrassment. The way he furrowed his brows made him look guilty, yet she couldn’t help but offer him the chance to speak. He owed her an apology at the very least.

“Why did you grab me? I thought you were going to attack me. And no, it doesn’t hurt. Don’t worry.” She let out a soft sigh and wondered why she bothered to add that last bit.

“I had t’ act quick, lass. Believe it er not, it seems yer a lot quicker than m’.. It… may ‘ave not been th’ most considerate course of action, but I wanted t’ stop y’. An’... talk.” His response confused her. Is that how this man usually got the attention of others? By grabbing them? She wondered what other manners he lacked in his everyday life.

“...You wanted to talk? About what?” Her breathing returned to its usual pace, but she still felt uncomfortable. She looked back at him with a blank stare.

“About wha’ I jus’ saw over there. Not everyday tha’ I see a pretty lass like yerself singin’ an’ dancin’ in th’ middle of an empty city with tears in ‘er eyes. Alone. At leas’, not in th’ last few summers.”

“It was nothing,” she lied. “I was just rehearsing. I perform a lot, so it’s just part of the act. Surely you’ve frequented the area and seen plenty of that?” She nodded in the direction of the amphitheatre.

“Aye, I may ‘ave passed through from time t’ time. But I’ve never seen anythin’ like tha’ before.” He sighed and crossed his arms over his chest. “Listen ‘ere. I don’ go outta m’ way t’ talk t’ folks. Just ‘ere fer business, an’ then mind m’ own. But somethin’ about y’ made m’ look twice. Not jus’ ‘cause yer bringin’ theatrics outside th’ stage.”

Dane’s lip twitched at his response, but she wouldn’t let him see her smile. “That’s a great start. Compliment and then patronize me all in one go. I don’t mean to sound rude– unlike you– but I should head home. It’s getting dark, and I’d rather not run into more weirdos like the one in front of me.” She grabbed her bag again and turned to leave.

“Not so fast, lass.” He reached out to her but hesitated. She turned and looked down at his hand with wide eyes. He really was about to repeat the same mistake, wasn’t he? She scoffed and continued to walk, but he caught up and matched her pace. “I meant it, even though it came out wrong. Surely, y’ can forgive m’?” He asked with a small smile. 

“Oh, forgiveness? For which part, exactly? There are a few things I can already think of in the short time I’ve known you, mister…?” She asked, hoping to catch his name. She wanted to at least be polite until she found a way to get rid of him.

“Joseni. Not mister, jus’ Joseni. An’ th’ lovely lass is called…?” He reciprocated, much to her dismay.

“Dane. Just Dane.”

“Never heard a name like tha’ on a lass. Not t’ say it doesn’ suit y'. Jus’ surprised.” She became irritated by his poking and prodding. Or maybe she had been irritated at herself for enjoying this.

They continued their back-and-forth until they reached the pier connecting ferries to The Lavender Beds. Dane allowed the conversation to continue in a light-hearted manner, refusing to acknowledge what Joseni had seen earlier. After some time, she pulled a pamphlet from her bag and handed it to him. He read it over quietly and chuckled.

“Seaside Aquarium? Aye lass, I though’ we were hittin’ it off but I didn’ expect y’ t’ b’ th’ one t’ offer a date.”

“Oh gods, you are dense.” She pointed to the bottom of the pamphlet where her name was printed. “This is my aquarium. If I don’t see you around here, I suppose… you can find me there from time to time.” She blushed– almost embarrassed from being too forward– but chalked it up to putting herself out there for strangers. She was advertising! That’s it. She just wanted more people to visit.

“Hmm. Alright.. La Noscea, aye? Never been. Maybe I’ll make th’ trip jus’ fer tha’.” He offered another smile before gesturing towards the pier. This time, she noticed the scar on his lip when they parted. It almost made him look cute. Almost. “Looks like yer ferry awaits, lass. See y’ again soon.”

Dane looked upon the ferry as it boarded a few passengers. With a gaze back in his direction, she felt conflicted. She had no ties to this man besides the damned pamphlet she just gave him. And that he does business with the Leatherworker's Guild. But it wasn't enough. Would he take her up on her offer? Or was he just keeping her company to make her feel better because of what he witnessed earlier? She was scared to know the real answer, but decided to let the universe sort itself out. It was only fair.

“Maybe I will. Take care, Joseni.” With a polite nod, she turned to board the ferry and replayed the last few moments in her head. She leaned her head into the palm of her hand to hide an obvious smile.

“What an idiot.”

[roegadynroost]

FFXIVwrite 2023 - 09 Fair

All Saint's Wake was in full swing. The City-states had decorated their streets, pumpkins whole stacked in delicate towers and pumpkins hollowed with mischievous faces carved into their rinds. The rustle of leaves as the autumn winds danced through the trees was a song all it's own, the perfect ambiance to the festivities.

Those that were of lesser valor had retired to their domiciles, the looming threat of voidsent in the shadows and trickery untold enough for them to not dare taking to the streets. Many others could not resist the draw of the fair however, not when the city was cast in an otherworldly mystical glow under the wake of the night sky.

Through the day, Thyn'a Sindyrl had been making preparations for this evening, if other years had been any indication, she would have a busy night keeping imps and ghouls in line. She didn't mind, she enjoyed this time of year. Getting to see Gridania all festive always left her cheery. Her leave had been specifically so she could enjoy this night, and she was so glad that the threats looming over Hydaelyn had allowed her the time to return to her beautiful home.

She'd spoken to the Adventurers' Guild Investigator a few times throughout the week. Thyn'a was always happy to help the Elezen man, he had his hands full trying to keep the Continental Circus in line. Together they set out to plan for how they would handle them this year, though it would involve some work on her part, she never minded.

Thyn'a spent a good part of the afternoon reminding folks of the guild-run fest that would run while the circus performed. Right outside Mih Khetto's they'd set up stalls for food, drink and knick-knacks. They could keep a close eye on the troupe while this close to the show. 

Thyn'a called out a few of her Free Company colleagues to help as well. Mjna Lhunar was always ready to party and to perform, Ahna Vonfiaull said she was happy to help so long as she was given a hot meal, Luina Swarsweig gathered up girls from her own branch to help get fliers out to settlements further from the city, and Steel Doe, while eager to partake in the festivities herself, promised she would keep her eyes peeled and her guard up.

Before heading out to the amphitheater to do her patrols, Thyn'a took the time to dress up in her favorite All Saint's Wake affair. It was a little corseted dress in her favorite color, ice blue, adorned with delicate lace and a precious pumpkin bow. It was a vintage gown from a prior year's celebration. The matching boots and gloves were a little snug she noted, she must have gain a tad more muscle since the last time she'd donned them.

As the eve went on, the festivities were going as all had hoped. Thyn'a felt as if she could let her guard down more and more. The merry cheers of the audience as they watched the circus were contagious, and even she could not help but clap in tandem. There were multiple shows through the evening, people coming and going in waves, watching the shows, grabbing concessions and repeating. She'd grabbed herself a delicious lot of pumpkin cookies to snack on, and even stopped to watch Mjna strum her harp for a short while. 

It was looking to be a nice peaceful night.

[theshotsheardacrossworlds]

Hi hi, I come with another Pumpkin request this time for baby Aurelien. Imagine during all saints wake Estinien actually believed the trickster voidsent turned his baby into a pumpkin but surprise he was just with mummy the whole time and Estninien was just holding a regular pumpkin

Estinien Varlineau was on edge.

I just know those fucking little void shits are doing awful things. They always do at this godsdamned All Saints' Wake party in Gridania. Why does Agi insist on coming here every year?!?!?!

He looked away from baby Aurelien for a moment (the lad is in the family pumpkin costume sitting on the ground at my feet), staring at his wife, surrounded by various Gridanian children and several of their own. Agnes was the picture of content, all smiles, handing out candy, and telling stories. She's so beautiful. As time has passed, as our family has grown, so has she grown more beautiful. Oh Agi...

When he glanced down again, he expected to see Aurelien.

He only saw a pumpkin.

Panic gripped him.

WHERE THE FUCK IS MY SON?!?!??!? THOSE VOID SHITS HAVE TAKEN HIM!!! OR MADE HIM INTO A PUMPKIN!!!!?!?!?

He lifted the pumpkin gently and whispered, "Don't worry, son. Bapa's got you. We'll fix this very soon, okay? Just hold on." He walked quickly to Agnes, who raised an eyebrow as her husband approached.

"That's quite a pumpkin you have there, love." She giggled.

In a hushed tone as to not frighten the children, he leaned towards her and said, "The pumpkin is Aurelien. I think those void shits got him or something."

Agnes blinked. "Love, what on earth--"

"We'll get it sorted, I promise. I'm so sorry, son."

We'll fix him. We'll get our our baby boy back. We...

"Bapa, look at Auri!" Celestine squealed, pointing at baby Aurelien, who was most assuredly not a pumpkin, laying on his back and cooing happily. "He's the best pumpkin ever!"

Feeling his cheeks turn hot, Estinien put the pumpkin back where he found it as his wife laughed.

And laughed.

And laughed.

"Madam, can you contain yourself?" Estinien growled, arms crossed over his chest.

"Oh love, I'm not laughing at you, just at the situation." With the sweetest and most perfect smile I've ever seen gracing her lips, she gave him a kiss on his reddened cheek. "I still can't believe I fell in love with such a wonderful, kindhearted grumpy dragon."

"Woman, not so loud. I've a reputation to maintain." He grumbled as Aurelien and Sylvaine hugged each of his legs.

She began to laugh again, much to his chagrin.

Watching the spectacle from a distance, an elezen dressed as a ghost and carrying a suspiciously familiar blue sword also laughed. "Oh Estinien, we all know the truth about you, you softhearted fool."