riverviewlogs | introductory mingle: HYGGE

Entry tags:

introductory mingle: HYGGE

who: everyone in Riverview!
what: Introductory Log and Hygge celebration
when: The month of December.
where: Anywhere around the city.
warnings: please put any necessary warnings in the subject lines

hygge

In the days leading up to December 1st, residents new and old will notice preparations beginning, a flurry of activity getting the city ready for the upcoming celebration: Hygge. This holiday is one of Riverview Quarantine's four yearly celebrations of love, this one focused on familial love and found family. The traditions associated with Hygge involve coziness and warmth with loved ones, as snow begins to blanket the Quarantine. Meals comprised of family favorites are shared together most nights of the month of December, and families both biological and found gather together by outdoor fires to drink hot cocoa and other warm drinks, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the beauty of the short-lived winter season on the moon, especially at night, when both the stars and almost unreal aurora borealis light the night sky.

a celebration of familial love and found family

Winter comes to the moon very quickly every year, as the orbit of the Capitol World crosses between its moon and the sun - the temperature drops to just below freezing in the span of only a couple of days, and the trees often don't even change from green to orange. During this short winter, the celebration of Hygge keeps all the residents warm. The main traditions involve comfort and warmth with those people you think of as family - platonic or romantic, though preferably mixed between the two - groups of people gather together to share meals and exchange gifts. The city sets up a series of cabins, each fronted with a fire pit, along the banks of the river, which has been lined with floating logs to interrupt the rushing water and allow the surface to freeze solid and form a series of skating rinks for the public to enjoy. Throughout the month, anyone can head down to the riverbank to make taffy candy in troughs of cold snow and share the various flavors with other families, or toboggan along winding, circuitous courses that range from easygoing to high-speed for the adrenaline junkies. The Town Square has a large, intricate ice sculpture set up, this year in the theme of a castle, that once entered proves to be a maze with a prize at the center for anyone who happens to make it through.

i. beach treats

The cabins that are set up all along both banks of the river are small and cozy, big enough to provide a comfortable lounging area with piles of pillows in front of a small fireplace where gift exchanges can happen, a kitchen to cook in, and a table for groups of people to share a meal at. Much like hotel rooms but without a fee, they're intended to be claimed at the start of the day and used for a while before being tidied and reset for the next group. Each cabin has a fire pit out front where a fire can be set up so groups of people can cook marshmallows for their hot chocolate and share stories or play music together.

Another major feature on the beach are the candy making areas, each big enough to accommodate a couple groups of people, featuring a bank of burners that keep various flavors of thick sugary syrup hot and ready. Once the syrup is at the right temperature, it can be drizzled into the snow packed in troughs to chill, and then rolled onto popsicle sticks to be eaten as a sweet chewy treat. Many families have their own particular flavor combos that are the go-to every year, and new families gather every year to start their own tradition.

ii. winter activities

After all that sugar, everyone's sure to be pepped up for a little activity! Every year, just before the big freeze, crews set up a grid of floating logs to calm the surface of the river along the banks, and when the temperature drops, those areas freeze into a thick layer of ice. As soon as they're safe to be skated on, booths pop up to fit residents with skates so they can skate around with loved ones, participate in ice dances, and play the ice skating version of almost any sport you can think of.

But skating isn't the only type of activity available! The sloping banks of the river have been set up with a variety of tobogganing courses, where people can share various types of sleds to slide down various set winding paths ranging from slow sloped ones to steeper, higher-speed ones that almost resemble bobsled courses.

Finally, for the more competitive, there is a less-gender-divided variation on a Lumberjack Competition, with various physical events that residents can compete in like sawing massive logs, logrolling, speed climbs, and boom runs.

iii. skygazing

After all that sugar and activity, lots of groups of family will settle down around fires either at the cabin or along the beach to enjoy a cup of spiked hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, and look up at the sky. Throughout the cold snap season in December, the sky is almost unnaturally clear and both the stars and the Capitol World are easy to see. Besides that, large swaths of the sky are bathed in beautiful aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, that paint large swaths of bright, beautiful color across the night sky. Curl up with a lover, a friend, a family member, or all of the above to keep warm and enjoy nature's fireworks show.

iv: ice maze

In the city center, residents can find a large, beautiful, intricately carved castle-themed ice sculpture. From the outside, it looks only about as big as a small house, but once residents enter they will find that the inside doesn't quite match the outside - courtesy of some of Gramarye Magic Research's top magic-users, the inside is massive, at least the size of a stadium. While cheery music plays, residents can traverse the complicated ice maze, each wall intricately carved and decorated with greenery, lights, and translucent watercolor paints. The walls are almost opaque, and the maze generally takes a couple of hours to get through for most residents.

Once they reach the center, they will find wrapped gifts arranged on a series of beautifully decorated tables, along with treats and warm drinks. The gifts are tailored to each individual in the maze, having been magically selected from a stockpile of items that have come through the portal, and consist of one small item from each character's home dimension (or, for CRAUs, from their previous game), similar to the "items from home" bonus reward, but without needing to spend points. The item should be small enough to fit in a shoebox, sentimental, and cannot be something intended for another person's character. Alternately, if there are no special items from home that a particular character would want or be attached to, an item of similar size and value that would make the character happy will be inside the box.

v. roommates or wildcard

Feel free to use this prompt to meet new roommates, for the purpose of getting to know each other, or hit up the mod-posted prompt to create a Communal Housing floor mingle. Or, if you have an idea for a prompt that isn't in this list, set during the Hygge, feel free to write it up!

visual inspiration

click on thumbnails for larger view

Credit: image i: Ryan Woodhouse; image ii: Hjalmar Wåhlin; image iii: David Fortin; image iv: Tzuyu Kao

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Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ He isn't quite sure when he got so sappy, but here he is. Genji's more than happy to spend this little moment by the fire with Shigeru, all bundled up and drinking hot cocoa. The slight spike to it makes it easier to taste and he enjoys it, as well as the cookies Shigeru had made.

He goes to sit down next to him, bundled up in a sweater, scarf and beanie that he might not exactly need but hey. The chill in the air makes his synthetic parts cold to touch, which is part of the reason for the scarf around his neck and chin.

He smiles softly, a gentle warmth in his eyes. ] Are you enjoying yourself?

[ Shigeru's thankfully a little bit better than he was a week or so ago. He hasn't really cleaned and scrubbed his hands too terribly much in the past few days, but even so he feels his heart begin to race when Genji sits down next to him.

Ah. Genji is sitting with him and he's hoping that he enjoys his cookies. He doesn't know if this is a good idea but Shigeru doesn't want to stop spending time with the other man either. This should be fine, right? ]

I'm really enjoying it a lot. It's...really beautiful, isn't it? [ He types as he stares back at the other for a moment too long. His cheeks instantly flush as he looks away. Gosh he's being too apparent, isn't he?! ]

How are you? The cold...doesn't bother you, does it? If it does I know they have...cabins set up for people to watch from as well. [ Just saying it like that without realizing what those cabins might be for...Shigeru please. ]

[ You can never take the covert ops out of the cyborg, so he's well enough aware of their surroundings at the moment. He doesn't have any reason to think they'll be interuppted this evening. ]

It is quite beautiful. [ He says, still looking at Shigeru with a smile. He's just so cute when he gets all red. Genji turns to pick up and take a bite out of a cookie, chewing and swallowing before he speaks again. ]

I'm just fine. The cold doesn't bother me too much. [ He taps on the faint green glow in the middle of his chest. ] As long as you're warm enough, I'm quite all right.

[ A pause and he scoots a little closer. ] But that does sound quite cozy. Perhaps later?

[ Genji finishes the cookie and wipes his hand on his pants, looking thoughtful. ] How are you doing? After what happened?

[ Shigeru will make a noise of acknowledgment and nod his head. He might shiver a little bit and hold his gloved hands out to the fire to keep them warm. ]

Later then if you'd like. [ But when Genji asks that he'll smile shakily and look back up at the sky. The sounds of the waves crashing against the beach and just listening to the fire crackle is really not something he'd ever dream of partaking in. ]

I'm okay. I'm sorry if I worried you. I've been meditating and it's been helping though. [ He's trying his best to not scratch at his hands and let his ticks overwhelm him. He's going to enjoy himself tonight and for the festivities present! ]

[ As the thought settles more... alone in a cabin with Shigeru. Ah, yes, that sounds quite lovely and cozy indeed. A warmth settles in his stomach. ] Yes, I'd like that very much.

[ He hears the waves as well, a gentle and soothing sound, as he listens. Genji shakes his head. ] You don't have to apologize. I'm concerned just because I care about you.

[ With that, he reaches up to brush his hopefully not to chilly knuckles against one of Shigeru's rosy cheeks. ]

[ Shigeru's heart skips a beat as he watches Genji's hand reach up to brush against his heated cheek. He might sharply intake something breath as the cold is a refreshing, but shocking, sensation to have against his face like that.

Ah. He really, really, likes it when Genji touches him and he hopes the other man can't hear his heart beating a mile a minute right now. He'll swallow thickly as he reaches up to keep Genji's hand against his cheek for as long as he's able before letting go and smiling back at him. ]

I care about you too. I'm really glad that you're here with me right now. [ Genji's presence is just so...calming for him it's rather amazing really. ]

[ Genji quite likes touching him as well, being so tender with him making his heart squeeze. He's never been more thankful that he has heat and touch sensors all throughtout his body at the feel of Shigeru's hand over his. His body isn't a weapon but he's never felt so gentle as he does when he touches or is close to Shigeru. ]

I'm always happy to be with you. [ With that, he pulls his hand away. And after a half second of thought, he slides his arm around Shigeru's shoulder and rests it there gently.

He huffs, smiling. ] You know, where I'm from... this time of the year is intended to be a little. [ A pause and he twists his mouth, still smiling. Remembering how he'd boast to his brother about having a date(s) for Christmas Eve. How foolish he was back then. ] Romantic.

[ Ah. Well Shigeru would never consider Genji a weapon so him being gentle is nothing surprising, really. He might even scoot a little bit closer to the other a content smile on his features as he takes another few sips of his cocoa.

His cheeks turn a little pink upon mentioning that though. This is...all so confusing for him, especially with Dodger in the picture now. It's just...he doesn't know what to do aside from respond to his own feelings and his feelings for Genji are so strong. Genji's helped him in more than one way since they've gotten to know each other. ]

Oh. Is...that so? I...I never really got into such things before I came here. I never really...gave it a lot of thought. [ Alex was the only person he really pinned for but back home same sex relationships for Phrobiests weren't exactly...prudent for the cause. Of course that wasn't to say it was frowned upon but many people didn't understand why, especially when the whole point was to keep the Phrobiest population alive to continue to fight.

He might briefly touch Genji's hand, the one wrapped around his shoulders right now, again with a gloved hand, the touch light and fluttering before he rests his hand back on his cup. His face is so red right now it's really apparent too. ]

It's a really good atmosphere for it.

[ He feels the best thing to do about Dodger is just make sure Shigeru is doing okay. He doesn't want to risk aggravating the situation and making things hard (or worse) for Shigeru by confronting him, because he's not entirely sure just how controlling this guy might end up being.

But Shigeru is kind and calm and helps soothe his soul so much. Genji never thought he'd be able to open his heart like this again; he'd long since accepted a life of solitude. But now... how foolish he was to think such things.

He chuckles a little. ] I always teased my brother for not having a date. I was quite the brat back then.

[ The hand over his makes his chest squeeze again and Genji can't help himself. He leans in close, dipping his voice down and speaking softly next to his ear. ] Have I ever told you how cute you are when you blush?

[ Shigeur might smile at that. ] It must be nice...having siblings.

[ Shigeru often wonders what it would be like to have a brother or sister honestly. But those thoughts are quickly swept away as Genji leans in closer to say that. Oh my god?! Shigeru's face just lights up even more at that, his breath catching in his throat as he quickly sips his cocoa. He fumbles with his phone as he types something. ]

No! I...I don't think you've ever said that before. I...I don't, you're just saying that.

[ He doesn't look too peeved or upset that Genji did say it though. He looks a bit...happy honestly. ]

[ Genji laughs softly, not at all mocking and mostly a little apologetic. ] Sorry, I wasn't trying to tease you or anything.

[ He pulls away a little bit to smile at him, glad for the happy expression on his face. ] But I did mean what I said. I would never lie about what I think of you.

[ Shigeru will shake his head his smile still readily apparent. ]

I know you'd never do something like that. You've been truthful towards me this whole time so...I know you'd never say anything you didn't mean.

[ And here he'll touch Genji lightly on the cheek with a cold hand. His heart is racing right now, gosh. ]

[ Genji leans into his hand, his smile getting wider as he does so. ] I'm glad... I'll always be honest with you.

[ He just looks at him for a moment before pulling his arm back towards himself, readjusting his position. Genji brings his hand up, silently asking for permission to touch his chin. He hasn't kissed Shigeru in a while, with everything that's happened. And he really wants to right them, if he's okay with it. ]

[ Oh. Genji is being really so romantic and gentle it's...kind of amazing? Not that he isn't always but tonight in particular is making Shigeru's heart race faster than it normally would. He does nod eyes and posture saying yes go ahead rather readily, eagerly almost. He hasn't kissed Genji in sometime and along with the atmosphere this feels absolutely perfect to do so. ]

[ The warm and cozy atmosphere as well as his own personal associations with it are bringing it out of him. Especially after everything the past couple months just making him realize how much Shigeru has come to mean to him. He wants to treat him right, to properly 'woo' and romance him the way he deserves... he's so sappy.

Genji smiles before licking his lips to warm them, leaning in. He kisses him gently as he cups his cheek, closing his eyes. His own heart is starting to beat double time. ]

[ Genji licking your lips like that?! Gosh it's almost too much for Shigeru if he's being really honest with himself. Genji treats him so gently and it's really...overwhelming sometimes how much Shigeru cares about him and how much Genji cares about him. He'll return the kiss in kind. Shigeru's eyes close as well as he embraces the motion. His face is so red right now and he can feel it on his cheeks.

His breath catches in his throat for a moment or two as he glides hand along Genji's arm up to his face again. Ah. He really, really, missed this. It hasn't even been that long either, but still. ]

[ For so much of Genji's life, he's never had the chance to be gentle. He's realizing now, with how he feels about Shigeru, how much of a privilege it really and truly is. That the thought of ever causing him pain would hurt him far too much.

Hm... that probably means quite a few things, where his heart is concerned.

Genji brushes his thumb across his warm face, continuing to kiss him. He pulls away ever so slightly to take in a chilled lungful of air before leaning back in to continue.

He loses himself in it for a moment before gathering his bearings, mostly because the warning system in his ears buzzes from lack of proper oxygen and elevated heart rate. (He should really disable that during these moments...) He licks his lips again as he pulls away, voice far huskier and rough than normal. ]

I hope that wasn't too much...

[ Shigeru wonders if he's going to be able to make it at this rate. He takes in his own breath of air when Genji pulls away, face bright, happy even, before Genji is kissing him again. This is not something he ever saw himself doing with anyone ever, especially not some like Genji whose feelings he has for are so overwhelming. He might run a hand through Genji's hair, getting caught up in the moment himself, before Genji pulls away.

Shigeru lets out a small huff, his face bright red as he shakes his head. ]

No. It was okay, perfect even. [ What is he even typing?! Lord save him he hadn't actually meant to type that out. ]

I liked it. [ Oh my god just take his phone away from him right now. He should just throw it in the ocean! Highjs so embarrassing he didn't mean to really type that out. ]

[ Genji's face breaks out into a smile, entirely smitten and rumpled. ] I'm glad. I quite like kissing you.

[ With that he shifts to gently rest his forehead against Shigeru's shoulder, taking in a deep breath and exhaling it slowly. ] Sorry. I just want to be close to you right now...

[ His heart is aflutter with the thoughts going through his head. Genji thinks he very well might be in love. ]

[ Ah, oh no, Genji is being so sweet and romantic?! Shigeru isn't used to this. He...really enjoys it a lot along with Genji's company. He smiles happily as he lets the other rest his head on his shoulder. ]

Thank you...for being here with me tonight. It's so much better when you spend it with someone you like.

[ He wants to type love but that might make things awkward so he's not sure?! ]

I'm really happy that I met you, Genji.

[ Shigeru brings it out in him for sure. After a moment he lifts his head up, still smiling. ]

It is. There's no place I'd rather be tonight than with you.

[ With that, he reaches for one of Shigeru's hands and brings it up to kiss the back of it gently. ]

I am so fortunate to have met you. Just being near you eases my soul.

[ Oh. This is so romantic and out of his depth he doesn't know what to do?! He just gets really flustered again and almost drops his phone as he types something. ]

I...probably made you worried so many times. Especially as of late.

[ He wishes he were better at this. ]

Thank you for...not giving up on me though.

[ Genji shakes his head. ] There isn't anything for you to apologize for. My concern is only because I care.

[ He kisses his hand again before letting it go to give him space. ] I could never 'give up' on you. You have been one of the brightest spots in my life, since coming here.

[ He chuckles. ] I still have that picture you drew of me when we first met.

[ It's too perfect and romantic for him, Genji!! Shigeru looks away shyly at that, his hand falling back to wrapped around that hot cup. He smiles remembering that first meeting. Ah, he might very well have been in love at first sight, but with everything they've been through Shigeru is sure that he loves the other man. ]

You've been the same for me. I'm always happy when I'm with you, so I'm really grateful for everything you've done for me here.

[ He smiles brightly back at Genji. ] I think I'm...in love with you too. [ He looks so embarrassed when he types that out. But Genji really is the only person that makes him feel a certain way. Like his chest is too tight and that he just wants to make the other happy no matter what. Maybe he shouldn't have typed that out...he's not so sure now?! Ah. This is so hard! But he hopes Genji isn't awkward with that admission. ]

[ The world seems to halt around him when he hears that. Genji's eyes go wide and his heart leaps for joy before a big grin bursts out on his face. ] Shigeru.

[ His name comes out in a hurried, hushed breath. Genji leans in to kiss him, overcome with the desire. It's a quick little peck and Genji cups his face, hoping his hands aren't cold. ] I'm in love with you too.

[ Genji never thought he would feel this way, that someone else's happiness would cause him such joy. That just being near someone could make him so calm yet so nervous at the same time. It's like bells and fireworks are going off in his mind, he's so elated. ]

iii;

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