[ORP] Lab 305 Spring Viewing

[kyoupi]

[Starts] March 25th
[Ends] ???
[At] Lab 305!

The in character date for this event is March 30th, in the late morning.

1. Rules & Etiquette
2. Spring Viewing
3. Indoors & Refreshments
4. Outdoor Activities
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[kyoupi]

[.01] Shop rules apply here.
[.02] As of (date 2015), some character restrictions in ORPs only apply:

A. An owner who is waiting for their Raevan is allowed TWO characters, but the second needs to be tied to the Guardian you're playing, not someone else's character.
B. Non-owners will be allowed TWO characters to RP with. One must be a potential Guardian and the second needs to be tied to that potential Guardian in some way.
C. Raevan owners are allowed THREE characters, including the Raevan. Again, the other two need to be a Guardian and someone related to them in some fashion.

[.03] Mind your post formats. Please do not use fancy post styles or super tiny font. Please? ;3;
[.04] If you are not a Raevan Owner, you may not post until your Character has been posted in the Non-Owner Profile sticky. ((NOTE: This thread has changed since August 21st, 2014. If you haven't posted up your Non-Owner in the new thread yet, we suggest that you do so.))
[.05] Please don't crowd the Raevans! We all know and love the Raevans, we all have our favorites, but please do not crowd them. You'll all get your chance to say hi!
[.06] Have fun! Somethings go without saying, but some are worth saying; we're all here to have a good time!
[.07] META RELATED NEW RULE!!!! If you've signed up for the metaplot event, you are required to make at least one entrance post in this ORP for the first 5 days the ORP is active. If you do not 'check in', you will not be able to proceed to the next part of the meta event.
[.08] Be clear about stating where you are! Do so by using (( )) around which area you're in, above your roleplaying post.
For example:

Quote:

(( Dr. Kyou -> Food Table ))

Dr. Kyou, now magically recovered, sauntered over to the buffet to grab a plateful of delicious durians.

Psssst, the official 'locations' for the party are bolded in the description. Use those names! You can add more as you go along too.
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[kyoupi]

The Lab had always been blessed with sakura trees growing right outside of it, especially around the outdoor cafeteria area. The bloom this year had been especially spectacular. That's why Kyou thought it would be fun to have a sakura viewing party this year.

Invites were sent out, advertisements were posted around the usual haunts of Gambino Isle. He will welcome everyone including newcomers to enjoy the flowers together.

As you approached the Lab building, arrows on sandwich boards will point you to the side entrance to the outdoor cafeteria area. Beautiful pink flowers loomed overhead, with petals falling gently, creating a romantic sight. The outdoor area had been decorated with simple pink ribbons, and the tables lined with red checkered tablecloth. The other door that is usually closed and locked along the fence is open as well, letting people walk among the trees outside the fence if they like. A stack of picnic mats had been neatly folded and placed right next to it on a table, encouraging people to have a picnic outside if they wished.

If outdoors is not a thing for you, or if you have pollen allergy problems, you can enjoy the flowers indoors as well in the indoor cafeteria. Tables were set out similarly to outside, and refreshments are located in here as well.

--[ LOCATION REFERENCES ]--

Entrance
Food table (indoors)
Dining tables (indoors or outdoors)
Picnic area

(( Just as a guide, it's flexible, feel free to add on your own as you see fit ))

 

[kyoupi]

To celebrate a Japanese tradition of sakura viewing, the refreshments table had been setup in Japanese style. Japanese desserts such as sakura mochi, dango and dorayaki are available. As well as adorable little bento boxes filled with different goodies. Some have adorable onigiri in them, some with sandwiches, either sweet or savory.There are some that have much healthier and natural food as well, to ease a Raevan's digestive system. These are filled with fruits, various vegetables, boiled eggs (some even in adorable shapes) and smoked salmon or prawns. Just have your pick at the bentos!

Drinks that are provided are mostly in bottles or cans, for the ease of those wanting to have a picnic outside. Some had been placed in an ice box to keep cool, or if you prefer some at room temperature, there are some placed on the table as well. They range from natural fruit juices, to mineral water and beer. A pot of Japanese tea is available as well for those that prefer a warm drink. However, these will be serve in teacups and will be difficult to take outside.

 

[kyoupi]

A few fair warnings for those that want to enjoy their meal outside, flower petals may fall into your food!

The sun is shining bright today, and the sky is a clear blue color with few clouds. This signals the departure of winter and spring's coming. The weather is nice and warmer as well today. Sure you may still want to wear a sweater since there is still a little chill in the air, but the it is warm under the sun.

There are six sakura trees outside the cafeteria, and they are spaced out enough that there is ample space for about ten small groups of picnickers to sit in between. The tree branches grow wide and even dips a little, if you're tall enough, you might even touch some of the lower branches.

 

[Rapidashtrainer]

((Xiu -> Arrival -> outdoor picnic area ))

The sun was bright and the air refreshingly crisp. It was a good day to be out and Xiu was glad that he could make it to this year’s annual spring party. As one of the earlier arrivals, the Sigel decided that it would be a shame to spend his time indoors when there were pink wreathed sakura trees lined up outside, all pretty as a picture on a postcard.

Helping himself to a can of iced tea, the Sigel duly floated out to admire the tranquil scenery before him while he awaited the arrival of familiar faces that would surely come.  

[Atmadja]

((Cesc --> arrival --> outdoor picnic area))

Although he'd certainly been to his share of disastrous ones, Cesc couldn't resist a Lab gathering. They seemed to draw people out of the woodwork, and there were many people he hadn't seen since New Year's Eve and was excited to again. So, Cesc awoke earlier than usual--which was saying something, considering--did his chores, baked and decorated the pastries, and went out to the gathering. He wasn't sure what to wear, and so he went with what felt safe, if a little boring: a desaturated blue-green long-sleeved tee and a dark grey zip-up hoodie with blue stitching, that stretched over his shoulders.

Since starting sword-fighting lessons with Xiu, and with the warm weather allowing him to start his baseball regimen again--along with his usual workouts with Iorek and Shepard--Cesc was beginning to feel like he had some real heft and strength to him. His clothes were feeling tighter, the skin on his hands was getting tougher… The lessons were nothing to sneeze at, after all--and, oh! There was the Sigel in question!

"Xiu!" Cesc called, lifting a hand to wave. He grinned as he approached him. "Not out getting a few rounds in with the Professor?"  

[Rapidashtrainer]

(( Xiu to Cesc -> Outdoor picnic area))

Upon hearing his name called out Xiu turned around and was delighted to see Cesc, a long-time friend and current sword-fighting partner. “Good to see you,” greeted Xiu warmly as he floated over to the approaching Sigel. When the Professor was mentioned however, Xiu winced.

“No way! I am still feeling sore from yesterday’s training,” said Xiu with a shake of his head. “I am certain he took delight when he sent me flying with that kick,”

“You seem to be doing well though. I liked how you managed to parry his strike yesterday and the Professor seemed really happy that his training sword got dented during the match. How old do you think he is? He keeps making references to really old wars…,”  

[DystopicRhythm]

((Henry -- Entrance > Outdoor picnic area || Xiu and Cesc))

While Ethiriel had fallen ill from overworking herself so soon after the last few weeks, Henry had been a bit hesitant to come to the party without her. Both the Frei and Gabe had assured the nurse that they would both be fine at home, he worried endlessly about them both -- sure, it wasn't a terrible illness, just a cold, but the man couldn't stop thinking about both of them, but especially Ethiriel as she had never fallen ill before -- ever.

Despite the chill in the air, Henry was dressed rather light: a navy blue v-neck t-shirt, acid washed jeans and sneakers. He was quite used to working out on chilly mornings, and with his build the nurse was able to tough it out.

Upon entrance, Henry quickly noticed that there were only two people within sight today: Cesc and an unfamiliar Raevan. Had Ethiriel met this one before, he wondered as he took a few strides forward.

"Cesc!" the nurse cheered, taking his place just a few steps away from them both. "It's good to see you! And I hope I'm not interrupting! My name's Henry!" he said, offering a hand to Xiu in friendly greeting. He was sure he had interrupted, but hopefully he would be well received as there were no others here to greet at the exact moment.  

[kyoupi]

(( Kyou - Indoors, food table // Laz - Outdoor picnic - Xiu, Cesc, Henry ))

Kyou walked into the indoor cafeteria briskly on his crutches, now very used to them already. In fact, his physio trainer actually said he should be getting out of these crutches soon, so he is especially chipper today.

The door to the outdoors cafeteria is open, and he likes the cool breezy air that's flowing through. Dressed in a grey sweater coat, with a white shirt underneath and a loose yellow scarf, it's just perfect for this weather. Wouldn't it be nice to have more of this breeze indoors? He thought as he walked over and cracked open a few windows to allow more air flow. He smiled as he watched the small group already gathering outside. Such familiar, friendly faces. He want to go say hi, but first he want to head to the refreshment table.

Lazarus walked in shortly after Kyou, heaving a few cartons of drinks into the kitchen. He is dressed in a casual form fitting faded denim jacket with sleeves rolled up, white shirt underneath and brown pants. He was so busy helping setting up the party that he missed Xiu arriving just now. But it seemed like most of the work is done now as he looked over everything. Red eyes turned to look outside, and his lips curled into a smile as he saw several familiar faces.

Nodding in greeting to Kyou in passing, he enthusiastically ran outside to greet the small group gathering. "Hey!!" He shouted as he approached the group in a small jog. "Welcome!"  

[Atmadja]

((Cesc = outdoor picnic area))

Cesc laughed and waved off Xiu's compliment. On the contrary, Rhedefre was fairly certain Xiu was the one getting bigger gains from the training than he was. And Professor Estoc always seemed particularly pleased when Xiu made strides; was harder on him when he regressed. "Don't sell yourself short--he can't stop complimenting your form. Honestly, it seems like he wants your sword, too." He paused then, snorting at Xiu's next comment. "Sometimes I think he's just pulling our chains. He knows we can't call him out if he's wrong--what would we know?"

Just then, Cesc caught a glimpse of someone else bounding forward, and it didn't take more than a look to realize it was Henry, Ethiriel's guardian. Rhedefre's sunny smile immediately flickered as he turned to see if Ethiriel had accompanied her guardian, his heartbeat ticking slightly up with anxiety. He'd kept some in touch with, but hadn't seen Ethiriel since--well, since a bad time.

And speaking of which, he reminded himself, he wasn't supposed to be carrying any grudges against any guardians who were not currently in the running for Guardian of the Goddamn Year.

"Henry!" said Rhedefre, his voice amiable. "You haven't met? This is Xiu. Xiu, Henry is Ethiriel's guardian."

He was about to continue facilitating the small talk when Lazarus came forward, and Rhedefre's smile grew again. It was good to see Laz looking so well and vital! "Hey, there he is! Wow, look at you, Laz. You look great."  

[Subobo]

((Nell --> Entrance -> Indoor food table))

Nell generally wasn't one to turn down a chance at getting out and meeting new people, especially where the Lab was concerned. On top of meeting new people, she was hoping to see a few familiar faces as well, and possibly get a chance to stop worrying about the potential newcomer in her near future.

And if nothing else it gave her a chance to wear some of her nicer non-exercise clothes. Unfortunately for a few of the shorter guests this involved heels that made her go from 'tall; to 'towering', but they at least didn't seem to make her unsteady on her feet at all. The sound of familiar voices initially drew her towards the outside area, but seeing as everyone seemed in the middle of greeting each other she decided to duck inside and grab something to drink first. But it looked like she would at least get to be a bit social in here as well!

"Hi! Dr. Kyou, right? I don't think I've had a chance to introduce myself and say thanks yet!" It was then that she noticed the crutches, and then the table of food he was heading towards. "Oh, um! Do you need help carrying anything?"  

[alpha lyrae]

(( Claire -> Entrance -> Outdoor Picnic Area / Cesc, Henry, Xiu, Laz ))

"You're gonna do what?" Claire stood aghast outside of the Lab, ear to her phone as she paced in front of her parking space. "Oh Aaron, the movies are too much for him, remember that -" She cut off with a frown. "Yes." She raised her fingers to her head fretfully. "Yes, but --" A groan rose in her mouth and she stopped pacing. "Next time. We'll go see Zootopia next weekend, all of us. It might make him feel more comfortable with --" She stumbled, the words "his mother" half-formed on her lips, but she recovered as smoothly as possible, "-- with the whole family present. But the park sounds fine. The one close to the house shouldn't be too crowded if you want to take him there." A resounding laughter was her answer and she pulled the phone away from her ear with a grimace.

"Stop worrying so much and have some fun. You've been at his side 24/7 since he got here, let us have a boy's day." Aaron's voice still held a note of laughter, even after it had actually passed.

"A boy's day, plus my mother." She could not help the smirk that bloomed on her lips, and she took a moment to survey the outside of the Lab, struck momentarily silent by the beauty of the cherry blossom trees. It was certainly a lovely sight to behold and again she felt the missing presence of her young son at her side with a thump of her heart.

"Well, yeah." Aaron admitted defeat with chuckle. "Anyway, I'm gonna get him ready and we're gonna go get Ivy. You have fun, alright?"

"Alright. And.. same to you two." She had to bite back a "be careful" as she hung up, knowing full well that she was fretting way too much, but Aaron had a good point. Lorin had not left her side since he had come home with them a few weeks prior, by her own choosing; he needed this time with his Papa. Meanwhile, she had another mission: fielding for potential friends. She was still worried over the small Frei's potential crowd anxiety (he had not done well in their first foray into a crowded grocery store), but.. at least, this way, she could feel things out and set up some playdates, just casual one-on-one things. And perhaps help out her young niece as well, while she was at it. Cadi and Lorin would not be friendless for long, not if she had any say about it.

The gears in her head were whirring and clicking in place as she pocketed the phone and strolled around to the outside picnic area, where a small cluster of Raevans and guardians had already converged. Much like the tea she had attended just under a year ago, the backyard was done up wonderfully with well-stocked food tables, everything set so picturequely against the springtime backdrop of flowers and greenery. Claire caught sight of a familiar pink mop of hair and the back of a bunned head - the desire for familiarity worked well with her plans. She recognized one of the other Raevans among the group as the one who had welcomed her at the Anniversary Tea, while the other was unfamiliar but everyone looked to be in amiable spirits. A good balance of new faces and old.

"Hello, everyone!" Claire said cheerfully as she approached the group, all smiles and with a fond chuckle. "Hope you don't mind if I join you all over here? How are you doing, Henry?" She gave the man a friendly pat on the arm; she had not seen him for some time. Eth's mug was still sitting in the cabinet next to her own and Aina's, waiting to go home with their respective makers; she wondered how the tea Raevan was doing (she would have to ask Henry when they had a moment). A cheerful smile was cast over at the stag Raevan in front of her where it lingered for a moment and then moved on to the other two Raevans in turn. She suppressed the urge to fish out her phone to proudly show off several pictures of her new baby boy - there was time enough for that. "Rhedefre, Laz, it's wonderful to see you both again. And I don't think we have met yet, have we?" She held her hand out to Xiu. "I'm Claire."  

[Ravina Loki]

((Anya and Zeke -- Arriving -- Entrance ))

What did one wear to a cherry blossom viewing? Anya had asked herself that question several times over when selecting her outfit for the day. As always, she was leery about the location of the party but with having such a good time the last one was held at the Lab, perhaps she wasn't as nervous about it as she had been previously. All the same, she had taken a considerable amount of time pulling out tops, casting them aside, and picking them up again from the mountainous pile on her bed to give a certain color or neckline a second thought. Floating out from her seat in the car, and looking toward the towering pink trees that encircled the Lab's backyard, she felt she had done right in selecting a soft pink sundress that she cinched around beneath her bust with a strikingly yellow ribbon. Accessories and hairstyle had not been forgotten and she glittered in what few gold pieces she had - bracelets and a thin chain around her neck while she had styled her long lavender locks into a high, tightly braided bun, throughout which she had woven a matching ribbon.

Of course, even if she wasn't fitting the scenery she still thought she looked good, and at the end of the day, wasn't that what truly mattered? Anya thought so.

"The spread is sure to be amazing!" Zeke was shielding his eyes against the sun with one hand and locking the car's doors with his key fob in the other. Anya was still quite happy to see the man had put SOME effort into looking nice - sure he was wearing jeans and those dirty sneakers of his but he had at least opted for a pink button up shirt that was a few shades shy of her dress. He had rolled the sleeves up just past his elbows and left the top two buttons undone for comfort. His hair was still styled as he considered his "trademark" 'do, but she couldn't argue. He had...tried, she guessed. "Ready to head on in, Anya?"

"I am," she bobbed her head in a nod and floated a little ways away from the car toward the entrance. Despite the time she took to select and get dressed, it seemed they were still two of the early ones. She could count the number of cars in the lot on one hand. "Not many people yet it seems."

"They'll filter in, they always do!" He was as chipper as always and took the lead with a bounce in his steps. As they crested into the party area, Zeke stopped to survey the surroundings and people already there. "Cesc's here! And so is Claire!" He also spied Xiu and Henry talking to the two he named for Anya. They were sure to run into each other in due time, but he still waved to the gaggle all the same. "Everything looks great though; what would you like to do first?"

She had half a mind to go over to Cesc and say hello now knowing the Stag was here somewhere amid all the camouflaging pink, but where Zeke pointed she could make out three more people in his vicinity through color and movement alone and she wasn't sure she was ready to dive into a group conversation just yet. Claire was also a potential to say hello to and congratulate too - Zeke had come home the day of her Raevan's birth ranting and raving and damn near frothing at the mouth that Anya simply had to meet him. But of course, all in due time.

"I...don't know where to start." The Widow looked this way and that, trying to get a good feel for what she could see. Everything was so pink no matter which way she looked. Usually these events had games for people to play and definitely had food set out for those who wanted it. Anya had no interest in the latter, but the former could hold potential, certainly. "I think I might just take a look around at everything first. Would that be alright?"

"Sure thing, sweetheart. You can do whatever you want! Want me to tag along or...?"

"No, no. No need. Besides, I'm sure you're dying to socialize."  

[Rapidashtrainer]

(( Xiu -> Outdoor picnic area || Cesc, Henry, Laz, Nell and Claire ))

Xiu laughed good-naturedly, deciding not let Cesc in on the fact that he’d actually gone home to read up on those “wars” that the vampire mentioned. Not all of them were recorded, quite a few of them were nothing more than territorial skirmishes and besides, obtaining the names of those who were involved (apart from a few bloodthirsty monarchs), were close to impossible. “He was certainly asking a lot of questions about the sword but…,”

It was then that Xiu noticed the approaching human and judging by the look on Cesc’s face, the Stag recognized him although for the briefest of moment, it seemed strained. But that was quickly set aside at the mention of Ethiriel. “Eth? Yes, I know her. We have met before in a park. She was with a dog named Nedhudir. You are her guardian? Pleased to meet you, Sir. Is Eth around then?”

Xiu barely had time to wait for an answer when a very familiar and welcomed face approached the group. “Lazarus!” greeted Xiu with apparent delight. “Great party so far. Who planned all of this?”

A second human had arrived by then, and this time it was a cheerful looking lady who approached the group. Xiu wondered if she was a guardian as well and decided that she probably was when she acknowledged Cesc and Laz. When a hand was extended in his direction, the Sigel took it and gave it a friendly shake. “Pleased to meet you Claire, my name is Xiu. No, I do not believe that we have met prior to this,” said the Sigel with a smile. “Dare I make an assumption that you are a guardian of a raevan?”