(open) ☀️ beach bonfire party

[niwabi]

WHO: Everyone! You and you and yes, YOU!
WHAT: Summer Beach Party
WHEN: June 23rd
WHERE: Solarpeak Beach
WARNINGS: none for now!

BEACH PARTY

The sun is shining, a cool, crisp ocean breeze flutters across the shores of Solarpeak Beach. There's not a single cloud in the sky, the perfect day to have a party! Whether you heard about it through Yoimiya's network post, word of mouth or just happen to stumble onto the festivities, everyone is invited to Ellipsa's scorching hot Beach Bonfire Party! Grab your swimsuits, sun dresses, or whatever you feel the most comfortable in, and join in on the fun.

➤

Gonna Soak Up the Sun

Through the combined efforts of Sisu, Yoimiya, and the many kind volunteers who lent their assistance in setting up the venue, the beach party is here and open to the public! Upon arrival, everyone will be given a choice of colorful, handmade hibiscus leis or bracelets to adorn for the party. They aren't mandatory in the slightest, just a cute little thank-you gift to those who are attending. After receiving a warm welcome from the hosts, you're free to set off and have fun! Meet up with friends or introduce yourself to new people from distant worlds, the party is your oyster. Of course, there will be plenty of other activities to partake in as well. Venture forth to the fun!

Feeling brave and daring? Sitting on top of the ocean is an inflatable balance beam built especially for water jousting. Foam joust poles and life jackets (if you wish to wear one!) will be given to would-be challengers looking to scratch the itch for a fight. The goal is to assert your dominance by knocking adversaries into the water and be the last person standing. Show off your strength and become the champion of the beach!

Perhaps you might be in the mood for a bit of fun in the sand. A large area of the beach is sectioned off for the grand Sandcastle Competition. Solarpeak residents from all across the city are bustling with excitement, flocking in to watch the artists do their magic, so go wild with your creations and give them a good show! Buildings, any kind of sculpture, or even just a basic castle are all accepted, let your imagination run free. You can even drag a buddy in for a helping hand if your work of art requires assistance. For the winner, the grand prize is a summer gift basket filled with goodies for a nice relaxing spa day at home. Tucked away inside the basket are gift cards to various restaurants in Ellipsa. Don't fret if you aren't interested in participating! Anyone is welcome to walk around and marvel at the competitor's creations.

➤

A Feast for All

The hosts are bound and determined to ensure that no one leaves this beach hungry. If you're craving a cold tasty treat to stave off the heat, a bustling shaved ice stall is here to cool down roasting attendees. An endless variety of flavors are available for mixing and matching, waiting to quench your thirst. If you are feeling adventurous, there are a few questionable flavors on the menu such as Bacon, Durian, Jalapeño, Ketchup, Mushroom, Pickle juice and Seaweed. Try them at your risk or if your palette is "hungry" for something more on the "unique" side.

For those who made inquiries about alcohol, special arrangements have been made! A small pop-up bar has been set up for today's joyous occasion. The bar's pride and joy is a variety of summer-themed cocktails but you can also find other basic liquor or non-alcoholic drinks if your tastebuds are craving simplicity. To go alongside the refreshing beverages, food is also provided at this small establishment. Some of the dishes on the menu are: kebabs with a hint of rum, peach bruschetta, spring rolls, fish and chips, crab hush puppies, and a spicy jalapeño popper dip (you can also ask for the ghost pepper version of this dip if you are feeling brave). All the hosts ask is that visitors to the bar be mindful of the people who can't or aren't interested in drinking.

Decorated across the shores of the beach are tables, picnic blankets, and sizzling hot grills for the designated picnic area. In a similar fashion to the potluck that took place a while back, several tables have been set up for those who like to go crazy in the kitchen or wish to advertise their food business by bringing samples to share.

Time flies when so much fun is taking place! As the last light of day begins to fade, the stars come out to brighten up the night sky on this clear summer day. However, just because there's no more sunlight, doesn't mean the party is over. Far from it! There's still lots of excitement to be had for the attendees who wish to stick around for the night festivities.

➤

A Midsummer Night's Glow

On the middle of the beach, a blazing bonfire burns ever so brightly inside a log fire pit. Eat snacks, catch up with friends, meet new people, or get cozy with others should one be feeling touch starved. In need of an icebreaker? A game of truth or dare or telling scary stories makes for a good way to pass the time. Maybe you'll have a fateful encounter and land yourself a date before the night is over.

With a sky full of beautiful stars, a bustling bonfire, and a large open space, the atmosphere is perfect for dancing. The DJ for the evening is the bright and energetic Aimoto Rinku, here to bust out an array of sick beats with her turntable. There's plenty of fun to be had in a group conga line or grab a partner for a slow, romantic bolero, and dance to whatever music piques your interest. A small makeshift stage is also set up for those who wish to sing, Rinku will be more than happy to work with any potential performers. From upbeat EDM to ballads, all types of genres fill the air with music. Let loose, enjoy the melody, and dance the night away!

➤

Festive Mementos

For one of the hosts, summer just isn't the same without fireworks exploding across the sky. To end the evening with a bang, a beautiful barrage of fireworks paints the night sky in various colors and patterns. As a final gift to the attendees, Yoimiya has prepared sparklers for everyone to play with. There are a variety of colors to choose from, pink, red, blue, green, orange, purple, yellow, etc. No matter what color catches your fancy, with a little flick of the wand, all of them appear like twinkling stars sparkling and flickering across the stick.

To end off the light show, fireworks representing each of the seasons burst into the sky. Blue snowflakes for Winter, pink cherry blossoms for spring, a yellow sun for Summer, and red maple leaves for Autumn. After the vibrant display, a final golden ray of light flickers and explodes into a bright, heartwarming message for all of the guests. "Thank you for attending! You are all amazing! Let's have a great time in Ellipsa!"

(OOC: Make your own top levels, mingle and have fun! ♡)

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Comments

[startraveler]

[The look that Diluc is giving him makes it quite clear that he's trying to figure out who Aether is. There is no recognition in it.

That's fine. Aether still smiles, just happy to see his companion doing well.]

We could still give it a go. I'm not quite sure how to dance to this music either... Alternatively, we could wait for something different to play later.

[He's fine with either choice, especially that there is something he needs to tell Diluc.]

...By the way, I'm Aether. Lumine's brother.

[phoenixblessed]

... Ah...

[Aether. Lumine's brother. Of course. That's why it feels like he knows him. He can see the family resemblance without even looking too hard at all (and may well have figured it out on his own in short order without the helpful introduction.

Luckily, he's already been made aware of Aether's presence here by Ayato, so this doesn't come as too much of a shock.]

Of course you are. [Diluc smiles then, though faintly and reservedly, and offers his hand.] It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance.

[startraveler]

[It seems he doesn't have to convince him that he's telling the truth. Aether smiles and grabs the other's hand for a handshake.]

It's good to see you, Diluc.

[He uses the name even though his companion has not given it to him yet. Aether continues to smile, though he wonders how the other is going to take his next words.]

Actually... I've already met you before. A different you. And I know it sounds crazy.

[phoenixblessed]

Ah... you have?

[It does sound outlandish, that's true, but he thinks that if he can accept that somewhere in the multiverse there is a version of Lumine's brother who took her journey instead of her, he can probably get his head around the idea of more versions of himself existing as well.

Maybe it's because of his closeness to Lumine herself but he does feel an instinctive trust of this man, even if it is ringed by his customary wariness.]

Why don't you sit down and tell me about it.

[startraveler]

[He's grateful that instead of questioning him, Diluc offers to hear him out. Aether nods and directs them both somewhere where they can sit and talk.]

It was difficult to believe at first, but it seems there are two versions of Teyvat out there - one where Lumine is travelling to search for me and one, where I am the one travelling to find her.

[A crazy theory and yet...]

It also seems like in both versions of Teyvat the events were just the same... So if you don't believe me, you can ask me of anything that only Lumine would know.

[phoenixblessed]

[It's thanks to Ayato already explaining most of this that he doesn't immediately doubt what Aether tells him. He's still suspicious, of course, and anyone who knew him at all would find that to be a very normal reaction to what he's hearing, but he doesn't dismiss it entirely.

He sits down with Aether, clasping his hands together on his lap, and considers his response.]

I believe you. [And maybe the other man wouldn't expect that at all, but Diluc's still going to ask his question regardless.]

... I told her once what the first drink I ever made for my father was. [He cocks his head slightly in Aether's direction.] And I told her why I chose it. Why was that?

[startraveler]

[When Diluc chooses to believe him, Aether gives him a thankful smile. Yet, the question is asked nevertheless, surprising the traveler. This is fair though and Aether smiles again.]

The first drink you made... that was a fruit punch: Gray Valley Sunset.

[Aether recalls the time when he was taking part in the Bartender Academy Week at Angel's Share. Diluc showed up there at some point, wanting him to mix Gray Valley Sunset.]

You didn't have any big reasons for choosing it: you just thought it would be sweet.

[phoenixblessed]

[It's a small and inconsequential fact, but Diluc speaks so little of his past and particularly when it involves his father that that particular piece of information is something he's sure could only be given by a very small number of people.

One of whom is, apparently, sitting in front of him.]

That's correct.

[Then he sighs, shaking his head slightly as he closes his eyes. It's enough to give him a headache.]

When Ayato mentioned that Lumine's brother was here, but he had followed the same journey as her, I wasn't sure what to think. I apologise for not contacting you sooner.

[startraveler]

[Aether listens for the moment, before shaking his head.]

I know it must have been very confusing. I felt like this at first, too, so I don't blame you for not contacting me.

[He tries to give a reassuring smile.]

We are talking right now, so it doesn't matter anymore.

[It's all in the past and all what matters is everything from now on.]

I would be happy if we could be friends again, but don't feel like you have to. [His eyes are soft.] I'm just a stranger to you now. It's okay if we take this slow.

[They have a lot of time to get to know each other... or rather for Diluc to get to know Aether.]

[phoenixblessed]

[Well, it is nice to not have his hesitance held against him... not that he would have expected it if Aether was anything like his sister (and she surely must be, if they had become friends in his version of events).

And, of course... Aether would then know, too, how difficult and rare a thing it can be for Diluc to truly befriend anyone.]

I appreciate your patience.

[And he really, truly does.]

It is strange to know how much you have me at a disadvantage, but I suppose that most of what I know of Lumine would be true of you as well?

[startraveler]

I believe so. We seems to have done the same things...

[He trails off, then laughs.]

Though, I suppose you would also notice that we're not the same either.

[They may be twins but that doesn't mean they act the same all the time!]

[phoenixblessed]

[One corner of his mouth pulls up in brief amusment.]

I think I would be doing the both of you a disservice if I expected you to be absolutely identical.

[No, he can see the differences in personality between them even now, and he'll admit he's a little curious about the other differences he might find.]

But I expect I will find your courage to be the same.

[startraveler]

[He smiles brightly at that, happy that they seem to be getting along so well already.]

Courage is something neither of us is lacking.

[Then he presses a hand to his chest.]

Now that the situation is clearer to both of us... Would you like to dance with me, Master Diluc? Though, I admit, I may not be too good at it, so your guidance would be very welcomed.

[The music have changed into something more... classic-sounding.]

[phoenixblessed]

[Diluc sighs very slightly as the question is put back to him again, and he shifts his attention to the music. It's definitely something more suitable to the kind of dancing he knows how to do.]

... All right.

[Fine, fine. It can't do any harm, can it.

He pushes himself up to his feet and offers Aether his hand.]

I'll lead. Try not to look at your feet, just follow what I'm doing.

[startraveler]

[He offers a soft smile, happy that his offer was accepted. Then he takes Diluc's hand and stands up. It's just a dance, so it shouldn't be much of a deal.]

I'll do my best not to step on your toes. I learn fast, too.

[It should be fine.]

[phoenixblessed]

I'm sure I'll survive if you do.

[He can easily clean off his shoes. With it held in mind that it is just a dance and there really is nothing to make a big deal about he finds a clear spot with Aether, guiding the other man's hand up to his shoulder and placing his own against the Traveller's hip.]

I trust you won't mind if I lead.

[startraveler]

[His smile never loses its shine as his guides and positioned for the dance.]

Not at all. I will happily follow your lead.

[It definitely will be easier for him, since he's still new to this. Yet his eagerness shows all the same, bright like the smile on his face. He's having a lot of fun on this party and not dancing with anyone would be a shame, which is why he's thankful that Diluc agreed.]

[phoenixblessed]

Hmn. Very well.

[It's clear enough he knows what he's doing. He takes Aether through a series of steps that are easy enough to follow. Once he reaches the end of the set of steps they repeat.

Now and then, almost with a small hint of mischief, Diluc seems to improvise as if he's trying to catch Aether out.]

[startraveler]

[At first he's taking it slow, but the steps are easy to follow, so he learns fast and enjoys their little dance as the steps repeat. He's trying not to look at his feet, just following Diluc's movements and it seems to be working just fine.

...But then mischief sparkles on Diluc's face and at first it catches Aether off-guard. His feet fumble as he's trying to follow. But the second time he is much better at this.]

You're trying to mess with my steps.

[It can't be really called a complain when Aether is clearly amused.]

[phoenixblessed]

Ah? Why would I do something like that?

[What a terrible thing to accuse him of, Aether! Yet his denial doesn't sound terribly firm or put out and he doesn't stop his steps, turning Aether in a small twirl on the spot like he's trying to throw him off.

It's too obvious, that time.]

Haha. All right, I apologise.

[startraveler]

[He sees that twirl coming, so it doesn't surprise him. But chuckles a bit as they continue the dance.]

You're having fun.

[A warm smile appears on his face.]

I'm glad.

[It's really rare to see Diluc enjoying himself this much.]

[phoenixblessed]

You didn't think me capable?

[It's definitely rare to see him feeling able to let down his guard, and even if Aether has seen the same things that Lumine has he will have only witnessed that in small amounts...

He may just be teasing a little, though, with the reply that he does give.]

I am having fun. I think that was the point of this little party.

[startraveler]

[He shakes his head, still smiling.]

That's not what I meant... It's just not something I get to see often.

[His smile brightens.]

This is why I'm happy.

[phoenixblessed]

[Diluc slows down slightly as he takes the next steps, and though the small smile he has doesn't quite leave his expression it does soften around the edges.]

No, no one sees it often.

[It used to be more common. He was a bright and rambunctious youth, after all.]

For all my strenuous objections, I might have reason here to show it more.

[startraveler]

Oh?

[Aether looks quite curious when Diluc says that.]

Do you feel more comfortable here? Or did something really good happened?