riverviewlogs | introductory mingle: SAMPREMI

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introductory mingle: SAMPREMI

who: everyone in Riverview!
what: Introductory Log and Sampremi Celebration
when: March 8th - March 15th
where: In several different locations in the downtown area of the Inhabited City.
warnings: please put any necessary warnings in the subject lines

sampremi celebration

In the days leading up to March 8th, new residents may notice advertising around the city, everywhere from digital screens to paper flyers pasted on blank walls, featuring the name of the spring holiday in celebration of new beginnings, new love, and lust: Sampremi. The advertising mentions that there will be street festivals set up at various locations throughout the week and lists where the market will be set up on each day.

street market

The main draw of the holiday is a roaming street market that features special treats and street food that can only be found during Sampremi, a bustling bargain market with any kind of goods you can think of, and fair games that allow a person to win a prize for that special someone.

i. street food

One of the major draws of the festival is the special street food that can only be obtained this time of year. Almost everything you can buy at the Sampremi Festival is meant to be shared - whether it's one piece of meat on two sticks or desserts baked with a narrow part in the middle for convenient tearing, everything is built in twos. The stalls sell everything from cups of soup, sandwiches, roasted or fried meat, deep-fried vegetables and cakes, dumplings, donuts, bagels, turnovers, and anything else you can think of.

Many of the savory dishes are based on the meat of a particular fowl native to the moon Riverview is situated on that has a taste and texture halfway between chicken and duck, cooked to be spicy (ranging from very mild to throat-burning). Many of the desserts are based around a fruit native to the moon that is spherical, red-orange, and has a light sweet taste that is similar to a combination of mango, pineapple, and strawberry. Both ingredients are considered to be aphrodisiacs. Of course, the foods aren't actually aphrodisiacs and any effect is purely placebo.

ii. fair games

The festival features an entire row of fair games ranging from very high-tech games featuring virtual reality and neon holograms to extremely old-fashioned games with darts and balloons or balls and glasses. The games all have prizes in various shapes and sizes, with the standard stuffed animals, but also with goods and special items donated by any business in the city; ranging from tiny prizes to huge and expensive ones.

Due to the nature of the holiday, many of the stalls are set up to cater to winning a prize for your partner, and due to the nature of the Quarantine, a lot of them involve aiming or other aspects of pretending to fight.

iii. shopping

Originally, the part of the street festival that involved an actual market, with stalls and booths set up with goods, was aimed primarily at romantic trinkets like flowers or jewelry, gifts intended to be purchased for a loved one. As time has gone by, however, this aspect of the market has increased, with many businesses participating, though the emphasis is still on small businesses and anything relating to local culture rather than booths for any of the larger more corporate businesses.

There is still plenty of jewelry to be found, for sure, mostly handmade and artisan, but the scope of the Market has widened immeasurably. The Sampremi Market is an excellent place to find specialty foods, clothing, jewelry, art, or other goods that were originally native to cultures on other planets in this reality, or other realities altogether. Many residents in the city use the market to share their unique cultural goods and traditional dress with others.

iv. adult

In a side alley of the Sampremi Market on any day, one can find an area roped off with a red silken cord, attended by members of the Perimeter Guard in casual dress who will ID anyone entering to make sure they are 18+. Once characters are permitted entry, they will find all of the adult offerings that the market has to offer.

Since Sampremi is, historically, a celebration of lust and physical love, the adult offerings are all set up to cater to two or more people of any sex or gender configuration. One can find an adult or sexualized version of almost anything that's featured in the main market, from fair games to adult goods to street food laced with actual aphrodisiacs (there are always warnings for food spiked in this way to avoid accidental consumption).

v. roommates or wildcard

Feel free to use this prompt to set up headers for a communal floor, or threads open to roommates for the purpose of getting to know each other. Or if you have an idea for a prompt that isn't in this list, set at the Sampremi Festival, feel free to write it up!

visual inspiration

click on thumbnails for larger view

Credit (left to right): Theo Prins, andreasrocha @ tumblr, hrormir @ deviantart, nkabuto @ deviantart

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[ Tony doesn't mean to end up here okay, he really doesn't. But he has been pretty much everywhere else in this damned festival and it is supposed to be held to honour love or some shit, so he might as well at least look at the roped off area. The fact that he is curious doesn't help matters either.

So he shoves his hands in his pockets and makes his way down the alley, eyes wide and smirk on his face as he takes in everything that has been crafted. He has to admit, he is amused by the section of 'fair games' that involve very little clothing and a whole lot of oil, as well as the intricate displays that are both artistic and nearly pornographic.

He is also interested, and amused, to see a very familiar figure standing before one of the vendors. Tony comes up beside Steve, looks at the array of-- edible clothing?

Snorting, he moves to pick up a thong that is somehow both edible and shiny.]

Mmm, it is shiny, Steve, so I am going to go with yes. If only they had this in red...

[ Oh look, they do.]

[Steve doesn't jump, but he does look briefly startled and embarrassed at being caught looking at the risque merchandise by a man he respects. He recovers quickly, shooting Tony a look that is answering his teasing with a challenge.]

Or blue?

[Which, indeed, they have hanging on display not too far from the red one Tony decided to draw attention to.]

You know, not everything has to be red, Tony. I'm surprised you haven't already come up with something like this.

[He probably already has, but Steve, Steve knows better than to dwell too deeply on that subject. He won't win against Tony in this particular match. So he decides to change the subject instead.]

Taking in the sights?

[ Because of all the people you know, Tony is the one that is totally going to judge you. Right. Okay, Steve. He thinks it is entertaining, but at least it is just edible thongs. I mean, if Steve had been sizing up dildos then perhaps the teasing would be a little more merciless. The genius does laugh at the look though, smirk tugging at his lips as he eyes the blue fabric (at least, Tony thinks that it is some kind of fabric, who knows) before picking it up, eyes glinting.

Don't mind him holding it up to his hips, humming in thought.]

Dunno, pretty sure the red one would look better on me, Steve. Something about undertones and whatnot. Though I guess this one would bring out my eyes?

[ Is that him asking you a question or rhetorical one? Your guess.

He goes to put the fabric back before, on a whim, he grabs it, along with the red on of course, and purchases them. Answering Steve as he pays, there is laughter in his voice.] Oh, I haven't done edible things, but I have been pitching a line of sex toys by Stark Resilient for years, the board seems to think that it will tarnish our reputation, I think it's fucking brilliant. Pun intended.

[ Thanking the vendor, Tony lets the bag with the items hang while he turns to Steve and motions for the two of them to keep moving. He is here, might as well.]

Eh, I was curious. I always am, are you really that surprised to see me in here? What about you, huh? Curious or looking for ideas for ladies back home?

[Steve isn't really worried about being judged, but there is something about having someone that close to him there to see his reactions that puts him off his usual confidence. Especially when that person is Tony. Tony is unpredictable sometimes, and lately Steve isn't sure where exactly that they stand. It's awkward enough to make him cough when Tony asks him a question he's not even sure he's meant to answer. He almost answers it anyway, but then Tony is already buying both, and Steve sighs, because isn't that just typical Tony Stark? He starts walking away when Tony gestures, very dryly remarking:]

Why would anyone ever think it would affect your reputation?

[But he does smile at the end of that. Softly, and it fades when Tony asks his next questions.]

I was looking for a faster route across this area. The end of this road is at the edge of one of my routes back. I might have to cross over it at some point.

[He pauses, giving Tony a thoughtful look.]

And I was curious.

[ There was a small chance that Tony enjoys seeing Steve just a little off his game, a little out of step with the usual confidence and assertion that the blond usually had. Tony doesn't know if that is because of what he was caught looking at or who caught him looking. Either way, Tony tosses a wink at the vendor when the bag is handed over to him before his amusement is turned to Steve completely.

While he would have liked an answer, just for the sake of having one, the look on Steve's face is good enough.

The genius laughs at the question and shrugs, casting his attention around at some of the other vendors that are nearby, slowly wandering towards a stall that has some very nice looking leather goods.]

You know, that is what I asked. I thought it would probably make my reputation better to be honest, along with the fact that we could use the slogan of make love not war or something. Hell, we could have green energy vibrators! Wouldn't that just be amazing. And totally great for stocks I am sure.

[When Steve tells him about shorter routes, Tony just snorts a little, cocks a brow at the blond, and turns back to the stall that caught his attention.]

Uh huh, routes.

[ Though maybe he laughs a little, open and honest, when the 'curious' statement reaches his ears. When Tony turns back to Steve, there is a playful look in his eyes as he holds up a leather ballgag, complete with nice studs and excellent workmanship.]

Same, you think Loki would take this the wrong way if I left it on his bed?

[Whether he's awkward because of the theme of the alleyway or just awkward because Tony is teasing him, Steve doesn't let it his discomfort control him. He listens to Tony regale him of his plans for "green energy vibrators" like he thinks that will make him retreat and stands by like he's accompanying Tony on a shopping trip rather than meeting him on a walk. He only reacts when Tony turns back to the stall and picks up another prize that apparently caught his eye.]

Is there a right way to take that?

[Steve manages not to shuffle awkwardly again, but his expression is a mix of amusement and doubt as he tries to decide if he's really amused by the mental image of what Tony and Loki might do with a ball gag. He decides he doesn't particularly need that image at all and looks back at the stall just to avoid looking at Tony holding up the gag like it's a big fish he caught, frowning at the displays.]

Hm.

[The soft, thoughtful noise should be familiar warning as Steve moves forward and reaches out to pluck an object from one of the displays, turning to toss it to Tony. It looks like a very fancy dog collar, and the amusement management to win control of Steve's expression as he tosses over his find.]

Think that'd hold you?

[ There is something about this that entertains Tony well beyond the discomfort that Steve was showing; he kind of just liked being able to hang out with the blond again for the sake of it, rather than for work or planning or-- whatever. It is something that he hadn't realized that he had been missing until now. The fact that they were walking around looking at sex toys and discussing the green energy sex toy industry was secondary.

Well, kind of. Tony still did find it kind of hilarious. Especially when Steve seems to refuse to look at the ball gag that he has caught between his fingers.]

Well, shut up would probably be the best way to take it, considering who I would gift it to, only because I feel like sleeping with Loki would be a dangerous affair that I can't say I am prepared for at this point in my life. Then again, new dimension, new me?

[ He is joking. Mostly. Maybe.

No, he's joking.

Tony is putting the ballgag back with a huff, eyes still roving over the other wares, when he hears the noise that Steve makes; something both contemplative and quietly amused. And when he hears that noise Tony finds himself huffing a laugh before he even turns around.

Of course, when he does, he lets the laughter fade into a smirk as he reaches out for the collar, eyes wide in feigned shock, as he holds it up to his throat.]

Why Steve! Are you implying that I need to be controlled? Though, what do you think? My style?

[ What you thought he wasn't going to model it for you? Psh. ]

[It's closer than they've been since before he got back. The tension is still there, but this chance meeting in the alley is oddly comfortable. Maybe being thrown into a new place is keeping them both on their toes enough that they can't fall into arguing--and that is just fine with him.]

If you and Loki start spending too much quality time together, I'm moving out. I don't think I can take the two of you teaming up.

[Steve is definitely joking. He actually smirks, watching as Tony abandons his ball gag joke to hold up the ridiculous collar as if he were picking out a new tie. Somehow, Tony always managed to make the weirdest things look natural.]

It couldn't hurt to rein you in. Just a little.

[Of course, the same thing could be said for him, but Steve leaves that out.]

I can't see anyone managing to put that on you, Tony. And I can't see it lasting long even if they did.

[The modeling just seems silly to him. Tony is the guy that flies off on his own when told not to. The kind of man that's rich and smart and no one can really pin down, because he's already a step ahead. Steve has tried.]

But it's your money. You buy what you want.

[ The remark from the blond just makes Tony laugh, genuine amusement at the idea of him and Loki managing to get beyond anything other than cordial conversation (look, he finds the god fascinating, but that is about it, chaos is chaos is chaos). The genius tosses the ball gag back, in favour of the collar.]

Mmm, I don't think we would team up, perhaps co-conspire, yes, but Loki doesn't seem like much of a team player considering.

[ Considering what, Tony will leave up to Steve to figure out, he is already fully focused on the collar and the fact that Steve is engaging in this conversation. The mock shock turns into amusement as he eyes the band of leather and metal like he was almost considering it.

He then shrugs and flashes a look at Steve.]

Most of the time, I think we could all be reigned in a little.

[ All of them. Steve and Tony, Bucky and Wanda, Billy and Loki; every damn person that had too much power and not enough understanding.

But the serious tone vanishes as quickly as it bubbles up, an amused light in his eyes as he puts the collar back, fingertips trailing along it a little reverently as he turns his attention other wares.]

They wouldn't get it on by force, that's for sure. But I can think of a few people I might wear it for if even for a short while.

[ That is all he is going to say about that before he is making an excited noise and all but bouncing towards the stall right beside it. Rather than displaying dark leather and well-crafted wearables, it is full of absurd looking toys in colours that are just a little offensive.

He jabs a neon green dildo, one that doesn't really look like any dick he has ever seen but okay, and cackles when it sways a little.]

I swear, this is what I should be making, imagine the range I could come up with!

[Steve watches Tony pick through the toys as if he's seriously shopping. And he might be, considering it's Tony and Steve can imagine that he would be right at home finding some "interesting" toys to entertain a lover. He wouldn't be surprised if Tony did end up taking home a good collection.

The subtle jab (and it is one) at how they all need to be reined in is innocent enough, but it still rubs Steve the wrong way. His gaze hardens slightly, because there's a difference between keeping them under control and imprisonment, but he presses his lips together and doesn't comment on that, and soon enough Tony is bounding off admiring other merchandise. Steve momentarily considers leaving him there, but ends up walking up after him. Why, he still isn't sure of.]

Well, that certainly would be different from your usual.

[Steve seems to appraise the bright green toy that doesn't actually look like a dick. At least, not in Steve's opinion.]

It's unique, Tony, but I really don't see why you're that excited. I've seen you make things a lot more impressive looking than these.

[ It isn't that Tony is serious about looking for toys here, but he is curious. There is something amusing to him to see this as being such a natural part of the festival, and Tony kind of enjoys it. He has never been one to shy away from physical affection, from sex, and it's interesting to him to see this kind of thing far more out in the open.

He might start an impressive collection here, perhaps start to modify a few (because of course, he would).

Should the hardening of Steve's gaze catch his attention, Tony doesn't let it sit too long on his conscience. He knows that, that fight? It was one they were done. It was over and while Tony has his regrets and his guilt, he still thinks that there need to be certain things put in place in order for the future to be safeguarded.

When Steve doesn't turn it into a fight, Tony relaxes just a little, quirking the blond a grin.] You think? I think this goes with the undersuit pretty well...

[ And if he ends up buying it? Well, that's all on him.

Though he sure as hell is finding the giant green dildo hilarious, especially when Steve gives it that look (and perhaps, there is a bit of a preening moment when Steve compliments him, no matter how subtly).]

Have you been peeking in my private folders on the server there, Steve? They have a warning for a reason, I don't need you seeing the Iron Bullet until it's perfect okay.

[He could make it a fight. Steve could always pick up the quiet references to their disagreements and force the issue all over again. But when it gets right down to it, he doesn't want to fight. As much as Steve stubbornly holds his ground and refuses to bend, over and over, he doesn't want to fight his friends.

He's not sure that the conflict is actually over between them, but if their world is already making steps to put the past behind it, then so should he. Steve has to readjust again, come back and learn a whole new set of rules... but maybe that is for the best.]

Is that what you've been spending your time on? And here I thought you were doing actual work.

[The shadow in his expression is gone and Steve smirks, falling into teasing Tony.]

As long as it isn't bright green. That doesn't look safe.

[ The fact that Steve doesn't make it a fight when he so easily could, matters a lot to Tony. There are-- well there are things that he doesn't want to rehash, and that is one of them. There is still far too much guilt in his bones, too many ghosts haunting him about the choices that he has made in the past for him to be able to get through even the barest inkling of a fight with Steve right now.

This is a new place with new stories and damn if Tony isn't going to try to go back and make some amends. He has missed this with Steve, the bantering and casual camaraderie that came with years of knowing someone, even if there was still tension between them. That, Tony thinks, will never really fade.

When Tony laughs, it's bright and not too sharp, leaving him looking pleased as he winks at Steve and picks up the dildo to waggle it at him.]

What, radioactive green isn't a good colour? Good thing I went with good old reliable red and gold. Thinking of making a red, white, and blue option, good call?

[ You know he will make one, and name it after you. And give you the tester. For science, of course.]

I think this looks safe, if you have like... an alien kink maybe? Like, not real aliens, but the general green things kind.

[Well, he can't really bring up those old wounds right there in the alley during a festival. That would just be uncalled for, and Steve, as belligerent as he can be, won't upset the apple cart unless he feels he has a valid reason. He lets it go, maybe biding his time as he settles into the new world. There will be plenty of time to talk. He's not going anywhere.

And, disputes all aside, he is curious about the area. The wares everyone is selling in the red lanterns' glow are certainly not his personal first choice, but yet everyone seems so happy to be involved--buying, browsing, and engaging in conversations with each other in a lighthearted and excited voices. Tony isn't the only one embracing the spirit of celebration. Steve thinks that maybe he should be giving it all more of a chance. He closes off and dismisses it all so easily.]

You wouldn't. Anyway, I don't think that's really as patriotic as you're trying to play it off as being, Tony. Stick to your colors.

[He's not embarrassed. Not at all.]

What alien is that supposed to be exactly? You'd be the expert.

[And there it is. The soft, teasing dryness of the old days. He's not quite there, but the tone sneaks into his voice and into his eyes as he watches Tony wield the dildo like it was a pointer.]

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introductory mingle: SAMPREMI

iv. because of reasons

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...the icon keywords ARE KILLING ME JFC

I do it for you.

/swoons

/catches you

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