Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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This weekend, a new opera opens at Mahogany Hall, called The Drowning Feast.
The score and libretto are by Miss Appolonia Von Ravenscroft, a well known composer of opera in the Neath, sometimes called The Entangled Dreamer.
A description follows for anyone who wishes to attend.
(ooc: This incorporates some lore and some made-up content. If you wish to avoid all lore related information, don’t read it. But most of it is just player-generated fiction.)
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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The opera is advertised as a romance, incorporating tunes and legends of the zee, true and false. Notably, one of the key roles is played by a drownie, the handsome Thrice Drowned Jones, the hollow-eyed tragedian. Other drownies are part of the choir.
The musical style is closest to Herr Wagner, for those who remember his work from the surface. Several of the motifs are from zee chanties and folk-tunes, but rendered in operatic format.
The libretto is in English.
Gossip prior to the opening hints at elaborate staging, and rumors of a romance between the lead soprano (heroine) and the lead bass (the dragon).
The story is said to be as sentimental as the music is stirring.
Miss von Ravenscroft’s operas are known to often incorporate elements from myth and legend except ‘the political one’ which is completely banned from being performed, and led to her permanent banishment from court.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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Act I
Scene 1: Chamber at the Top of the Tree-Tower
On an isolated island in the middle of the zee, there is a tree that grows all the way to the Roof. Its branches weave into a tower-like shape. In a chamber at the top of the tree-tower, the heroine (soprano) grieves to be separated from her love (the hero, tenor). She is guarded by a dragon (on-stage, a huge puppet; off-stage, a bass), who is an aspect of Storm.
They speak through window-like gaps in the branches. Her chamber is entirely open to the audience’s view.
A passing bird brings her word that the hero is zailing NORTH to try to find a power strong enough to face the dragon and rescue her.
The dragon taunts her that it is only his winds – that follow his command – that permit the hero to zail in that direction, and the dragon blows him north knowing it will bring his doom.
She begs the dragon to reverse the winds and blow her love back home to the south where he will be safe, even though it means he will never rescue her. Better he live, himself, whole and sane, than that she ever see him again.
(Motif: Blow the Wind Southerly; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASsZfXCyAKg)
The dragon agrees, but is angered that her thoughts are ever with the hero.
Scene 2: The Zailing Ship, at Zee
The hero’s ship, a zailing vessel, is headed NORTH. He and his crew sing of the perils of their journey so far, and his love for the heroine.
The dragon appears and reverses the winds.
They are pushed back to the safer waters to the south.
The dragon’s anger stirs the fiercest of storms. Intentionally or unintentionally? – it is unclear.
The hero’s ship, carried south, zails into the terrible storm, and sinks, and he and his crew are carried deep under the waves.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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Act II
Scene 1: Court of the Fathom-King
The hero sinks down to the realm of the Fathom-King (bass, Thrice Drowned Jones).
The hero sings of his love, and all that has happened.
The Fathom-King invites him and his crew to a drowning feast.
A choir of drownies sings throughout this scene, emphasizing the Fathom-King’s points, and helping to serve the feast.
The hero believes that each of the seven courses reflects a stage of the drowning process. The First Touch on the Skin. The Struggling Against the Current. Swallowed...
But the Fathom-King reveals that they are actually the seven stages of love, to which he himself is no stranger.
The Fathom-King’s heart is moved, and he reveals to the hero that there is another way to reach the Roof, though it is a slim chance. He sings of his own lost love, a song of great feeling and little detail. He will not part with the secrets closest to his heart.
(Swooning ladies in attendance may perceive the hope of a sequel.)
He gives the hero a map to a place on the zee-floor where Icarus fell, and his wings still lie. They should give the user the power to fly, if repaired.
There is no risk to using them, in a place with no Sun.
Scene 2: The Zee Floor
Weeks later, the hero and his crew return in a zubmarine, which should protect them from the influence of the traitorous winds, and follow the map.
The wings of Icarus are guarded by a huge beast of the zee. (A squid-shaped puppet that fills a quarter of the stage, comparable in size to the dragon.)
The hero triumphs in this battle, through bravery and cleverness.
The hero recovers the wings. A metal frame. Peculiar clockwork mechanisms to unfurl and steer. The feathers need substantial patching, secured with wax.
They will need repair, but it seems possible that he could use them to fly.
He finally tries them on for the first time, repaired, and looks like an angel.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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Act III
Scene 1: Chamber at the Top of the Tree-Tower, and Base of the Tower
(In the stagecraft, the tower is in a fixed location on the right of the stage. The dragon is in the middle. The stage itself represents the top of the tower, or the base of the tower, or progress along its length, by a mechanism that raises and lowers the section of the tower in which the heroine’s room is located, with screens behind changing, as the view is raised or lowered, from the sands of the island (base), to blue sky (the length of the tower), to the dark roof (behind her chamber) with scuttling creatures of light-catching carapace crawling on the ceiling.)
The dragon watches the heroine grieving that she will be forever separated from the hero. She is melancholic but resolved. It is clear they have become friends, with no one else for company.
The dragon looks down and sees the hero trying to fly for the first time on the Icarian wings, from the base of the island, to the chamber at the top where the heroine waits.
He sees what should be obvious to the hero – the wings are even more dependent on the winds than a zailing ship.
Repenting of the heroine’s sorrow, the dragon helps the hero fly all the way to the top of the tower, keeping up-drafting winds under the out-stretched wings.
The hero does not realize how much the winds are helping him with the flight.
The hero arrives at the chamber at the top, and meets with the heroine.
But, he is filled with pride (like Icarus of legend). He has truly become the hero he always wanted to be, a monster slayer, and thinks this is what will secure her love, rather than their fond history and faith in her constancy.
Rather than suggest they flee together then, he plans to use the wings to fight the dragon and slay him.
The heroine does not want to see either of them hurt in such a battle, and begs him to simply flee with her.
The hero realizes she is fond of the dragon, and has been caged enough. She does not need to be ‘won’. He carries her down to the island, and gives her the wings. She can fly up to the skies and be companion, on her own terms, to the dragon. Or, she can come home with him in his zubmarine.
She hesitates. Maybe she only wants to say goodbye to the dragon first.
The hero departs.
She sings a song of farewell to the dragon, and then decides to use the wings to fly after the zubmarine and catch up to the hero.
The dragon realizes he will have to manipulate the winds to support her all the way to her home far in the south, chasing the zubmarine, the entire length of the journey.
Scene 2: The Surface of the Zee (an empty stage, while the remaining set change occurs behind a curtain)
She flies south.
The dragon follows, keeping her aloft. He reprises ‘Blow the Winds Southerly’, now his motif, in a much lower register.
She does not realize he is following and helping. All her attention is on what lies ahead.
Scene 3: The Dock
Like all good zee stories, this one ends with a homecoming on a dock. The dock, in the hero and heroine’s home town, is crowded with the families of the zubmarine’s crew, waiting for them.
The hero arrives in his zubmarine.
The heroine arrives shortly after, flying on the wings of Icarus.
The dragon arrives last, shy, but glad to see her reach the dock safely.
At last, they realize how the dragon has helped them use the wings and winds at every turn.
The last song is of homecoming and family, families of birth, and families found.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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The Absurd Rogue
Posts: 1049
6/4/2016
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Ezekiel regards the poster, his unmarred facial features unreadable as always.
"Is there anyone that has not been banished from Court?" It rattles, imitating the sound of a dainty aristocratic woman.
Eli scowls bitterly and wrenches the poster from Ezekiel's tendril. "No."
"Why aren't Eli performing? Is better artist than most honey-mazed milquetoast." The thing scratches at the skin beneath it's silver mask, which has the texture of honeycomb.
"This isn't any average Veilgarden jaunt." Eli halts outside the brimming entryway to fix Ezekiel's cravat and spray some perfume to cover up the smell of vinegar. "I've been looking forward to seeing Appolonia perform all month. Don't make me regret bringing you out in public again, EZ."
"Am not your pet."
"No, you are my friend. Now try to smile an act civil please."
Ezekiel smiles. Eli's Nightmares increase to 5.
"Never do that again."
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"There is never another story. There is only one, and I try to tell it with every page. I fail, and I try again. There are no new stories; I have this one."
-S.N
RemainProfane#2532
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Professor Strix
Posts: 616
6/4/2016
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It's late at night and the Inescapable Professor is still taking notes on her office at Veilgarden. A ball of paper, coming out of nowhere, crashes on her head. She picks it and reads; it's an unsigned note.
"You coming to the opera?"
She makes a ball out of the note again and throws it in the trash can. "Of course I will not go. Operas are wastes of my..."
Her complaint is cut by another ball to the face. Already planning how to kill the sender, she reads the paper.
"It doesn't end with everybody dead."
She raises her eyebrows. Well, that is new. She might be interested after all.
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The Inescapable Professor, London's Most Academic Detective. Open to consultation from Mondays to Fridays, above the Silver Binding bookshop, Veilgarden. Half the payment in advance, half after closing the case. No refunds.
"THIS SATURDAY, in MAHOGANY HALL, delight your eyes with the DARING FEATS of the DAPPER ESCAPIST. Gape at his CHARM and WIT and his CLEVER TRICKS OF ILLUSIONISM. No mirrors used."
---------
Social actions welcomed. Will take menaces if not currently grinding that one stat. Send them and cross your fingers.
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Professor%20Strix
My alt loiters suspiciously if you want to:
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Derek%20Davis
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Rysiek
Posts: 693
6/4/2016
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Agata attends the Opera, with her notebook, to write a recension. She sits quietly towards the whole play. At the end she is left crying. "Great.... just... make a sequel.... set in space, that sounds very good!"
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The silesian Detective
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Rysiek
The incredible Warsovian. She certainly didn't steal your diamond necklace. That idea is RIDICULOUS...
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Maria~Konstantynopolska
The silesian vengeance seeker
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Agata~Grym
I apologize for any and all anachronisms. I am too lazy to check some facts if I am sure they are from the 1890s or sometimes think they are.
Oh, and by the way, I am not polish, I am GERMAN to clarify for heavens sake... tylko po polsku mowie. Um Himmelswillen...
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Hark DeGaul
Posts: 208
6/4/2016
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Hebediah and his daughter sit near the back, the former greatly enjoying the performance while the latter takes notes. Hebediah cheers the hero, loudly bemoans the wretchedness of fate and circumstance and is generally rather annoying. When the opera ends he applauds so vigorously that he almost knocks the poor chap next to him over. "I don't see what all the fuss is about," his daughter sighs, "there weren't even any deaths." She wipes her eye to remove a small piece of dust that must have found its way in there during the final number and certainly not for any other reason (why the very thought is preposterous!)
Hark hides in the rafters, their eyes tiny candles in the dark. Most will never know they ever attended tonight, but a few sharp eared Londoners may hear the purring of cats and someone quietly humming the Fathom King's song as they make their way to the exits.
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The Dawn-Eyed Optician: http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Hark%20DeGaul
That Vicar Who Ruined the Royal Wedding for Everyone (including himself): http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Hebediah%20Fix
The Dreaded Relative: http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Your%20Aunt
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Rackenhammer
Posts: 354
6/4/2016
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A voice from the darkness behind Absimiliard speaks, "I must admit, I hadn't expected quite so happy an ending. These things usually have some element of tragedy to them." Irene's shadowed lips curl up in a smile. "And when they don't, there's usually a lot more beer involved."
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"DO NOT TRUST HAPPY ENDINGS. DO NOT FEAR SAD ENDINGS... NEITHER ARE ENDINGS."
~
Mathieu Psmith: The Bard of Lost Children, loving husband, and a fixture of the artistic set. Can never resist making a show of things...
Irene Psmith: Adopted Daughter of Mathieu. Specializes in Information, Acquisitions, and the Acquisition of Information.
Vaughan Montblanc: Once a frontiersman of Western Canada, he now practices medicine in London. His discretion may be absolutely trusted.
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Rysiek
Posts: 693
6/4/2016
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Jolanda Swan wrote:
Jolanda, who has accompanied Absimilard, has only spoken to congratulate Appolonia. She has not glanced at Irene once, and politely greets Mr Gul, whom she seems to recall from the University. She apologizes for keeping silent; the opera made her cry and she needs some moments to collect herself. However, she follows closely the Greek mythology talk. "I happen to have some slim volumes of the lost Greek myths" she offers. "Notebooks, really. They move away from the classical, if you would like to have a look." Her voice betrays the emotion that washed over her mere hours ago.
Maria, knowing only Jolanda, Irene and Eli stood in a corner, taking notes "Greek, myths, those are those with that Zeus guy and those titans and that nonsense, right? Why can't someone write an opera based on... physics... or simple theft. Or the Bratva.... wait, I am going to write an Opera myself! Mrs. Swan, would you help me with the music? The coldest opera of London is going to be performed. A bittersweet, realistic ending, a thief, ruthless accuracy.... the bratva as an antagonist, the mafia both on and against them. All against the heroine. People speaking nonsense, like that with the sizes of male genitals... new inventions.... a lot of russian, and, if it has to be in an opera, slavic myths. Maybe I will throw the Baba Yaga in. And lets not forget numbers. Real numbers, imaginary numbers, many ways to write them. Misscalculations by very small amounts. Graphs, complex formulas, long and accurate calculations. Which will have big consequences and a big significance on the plot. Calculations which may spoil the ending, if done correctly and then changed into the russian alphabet. How does that sound?" Probably Maria, who looks now so happy she could light all of London, would be the only person interested in such an opera "Oh, and the opera was wonderful. Can I get two cards for tomorrow? Probably somewhere hidden from the rest of the audience." Maria hands a ring to Appolonia "Noone close to me had a rose, so I stole this ring. Hope you like it."
edited by Rysiek on 6/4/2016
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The silesian Detective
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Rysiek
The incredible Warsovian. She certainly didn't steal your diamond necklace. That idea is RIDICULOUS...
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Maria~Konstantynopolska
The silesian vengeance seeker
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Agata~Grym
I apologize for any and all anachronisms. I am too lazy to check some facts if I am sure they are from the 1890s or sometimes think they are.
Oh, and by the way, I am not polish, I am GERMAN to clarify for heavens sake... tylko po polsku mowie. Um Himmelswillen...
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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Afterwards, as people continue to talk in their seats and then out in the lobby, Appolonia will be possible to find in the lobby.
She goes backstage first, congratulating the performers, and then comes to the lobby afterwards.
She waves at the folks she knows, as she greets other patrons.
She is recognizable from her picture in Slowcake's, if you have not met her before.
Tonight, she is wearing an elegant pink gown, with matching necklace. There is a fluffy green sorrow spider on her shoulder.
A handsome Turkish man in a fedora and an elegant suit is with her, and appears to be carrying a coat and a very dignified black cat, for her.
It is also possible to get her contact information from the box office, if any attending the opera would prefer a private conversation, or to become a patron of the arts.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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She greets The Game-Carver.
"I have heard many tales about the Drowning Feast, in my research. This is but one. I cannot attest to its truth, personally. There may be many things possible, depending on the Fathom-King's mood, and I daresay I wouldn't risk his wrath by putting all his secrets on the stage."
"At least not this season..." She grins.
"But, of all the things I heard, it seemed to me most compelling. A feast with seven courses, each with a name. And names that could speak both to the experience of drowning, and the experience of falling in love."
"Ah, but I see the very person who shared the tale with me! He could likely tell you more. Absimiliard, the Curious Captain, is one of my best sources - in addition to the drownies themselves - for tales of the waters far beyond the naval blockades, where I myself have never zailed."
She waves and smiles at Absimiliard.
(Mr. Gul would undoubtedly chime in to clarify that he did not play a role in composing the opera's score or libretto - that's her work. He is there for company and to enjoy the show.)
Vavakx Nonexus wrote:
The Game-Carver approaches the pair at a brisk pace.
"Lady Appolonia, Sir Gul, I would like to get some commentary from the play's creators. First things first, is your romantic interpretation of the Drowning Feast based on another work, or an idea of your own breeding?"
Their thick snakeskin notebook is open and the Game-Carver's black pencil prepares quickly scratch more notes on the matter onto paper.
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/4/2016
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Rysiek wrote:
Agata went over to Appolonia too "Uhm, Fräulein von Ravenscroft, ich hätte ein paar Fragen. What inspired you for this play... And why do happy endings always happen to people who aren't me?"
edited by Rysiek on 6/4/2016
Appolonia turns to Agata, expression thoughtful.
"I suppose there are many inspirations. I read myths and lore and fairy tales. I remembers the operas of the Surface. I have spent years transcribing the songs of the drownies, and finding instrumentation to match their eerie melodies. I chat with zailors and collect their zee shanties. I think stories of the zee are very powerful."
"Stone, Salt, and Storm is a trinity here. Storm is easy enough to imagine in a zee story. Stone is the safety of the South, referenced here. But Salt, I used to think it stood for salt water. But it's more than that. Salt is the god of horizons, partings, tears, and the outward urge - the desire to explore. All of those forces are in the story, though Storm is most visible."
"But happy endings... We all reach for them. I hope art can sometimes inspire belief in what is possible."
"And it is a matter of faith here. All shall be well. The Anchoress - Julian of Norwich - also a woman of vivid dreams and faith - teaches us that all shall be well and all manner of thing shall be well by the purification of the motive in the ground of our beseeching. The leap of faith. The belief that when belief triumphs over doubt, and we act from the best motives, from belief and love - all will be made right and well in the end."
"I don't believe that every day. It is hard. But I try. I try to remember it."
"It is a seed we can re-plant in our thinking each day. Or try, anyway."
"And life is not an opera. You never know what Act you are in. You do not know if your ending is happy until your last day. And here, where death is only temporary, there are very few endings at all. But there is happiness."
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http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Shadowcthuhlu
Posts: 1557
6/4/2016
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Appolonia wrote:
Appolonia smiles at Dirae.
"As you prove just now, there is ample reward for noticing such details."
"I am not the only one here in the Neath who enjoys hearing love stories. But it is something I enjoy. A great source of inspiration! If you ever wish to tell more of her and that love story, I would be glad to hear it."
Shadowcthuhlu wrote:
Dirae Erinyes will give a small nod.
"My first wife loved Greek mythology stories and taught them all to me. While my names have changed, I've always been named in honor of her love. Fitting to the theme of the opera tonight. I am glad you have noticed, not many do."
"We met when she became the inheritor of my parent's house. Allow to me explain: she was the only daughter of a Baronet. His marriage produced no children, but his affair while serving in India did. He sent money and provided for her but they never met. She was called to Britian as his only inheritor. My parent's house was his country estate in Scotland - he lent it to them for their research. He never sought to reclaim after his death. According to Evensong, he took the stories of it's supposed haunting quite seriously. When she came to reclaim it, she found me.
She was my first friend. The first person after my parent's death to not run away but instead insisted that I come to live with her. She introduced me to her garden, to her stories, to my whole world for the next two decades. I become an author because she loved my stories. She become my wife because she loved me. " Dirae Erinye's voice catches on sadness. "Then she was killed."
--
https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Dirae%20Erinyes. Closed to calling cards, but open for all other social action. I also love to roleplay.
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Rysiek
Posts: 693
6/4/2016
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Appolonia wrote:
Appolonia turns to Maria.
"Are you a writer of libretto also? It is always a pleasure to meet another writer of song."
"Ah, I think you are looking for tickets for an additional evening? I can help you with that, or you can check at the box office."
At the offer of the ring:
"Oh. That is ... very thoughtful of you. I will take this in the spirit it is given, and tell you how grateful I am that you were moved by the performance."
She takes the ring, and smiles gently at Maria.
(Later, she will give the ring to the box office in case anyone returns seeking 'lost and found'.)
"Actually, I have no idea what a libretto is. Something free? I didn't have time to go the operas. Had to focus on surviving. The closest thing we had to music in Praga were the Synagogue and the church. The operas were on the other side of the Vistula. Where we stole. And who would allow a dirty kid in? And later, there wasn't one in prison... but I want to try to write one. Apparently, music is very mathematical. And if there is a thing I know, it is numbers and jewellery. So maybe, I won't fail spectacularely?"
--
The silesian Detective
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Rysiek
The incredible Warsovian. She certainly didn't steal your diamond necklace. That idea is RIDICULOUS...
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Maria~Konstantynopolska
The silesian vengeance seeker
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Agata~Grym
I apologize for any and all anachronisms. I am too lazy to check some facts if I am sure they are from the 1890s or sometimes think they are.
Oh, and by the way, I am not polish, I am GERMAN to clarify for heavens sake... tylko po polsku mowie. Um Himmelswillen...
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Appolonia
Posts: 248
6/5/2016
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Appolonia smiles at Maria.
"Ah, it is something you are contemplating but have never done before? But you have written stories? But maybe not songs, or tunes and orchestration?"
"Well, one way to get started would be to take an existing piece of music. For example, an operatic score. And simply write new words for it. Take a scene that is an argument between a master and a servant, and see how that same music could serve an argument between a young couple. That will get you some practice in fitting word to note."
"Then think about the staging of that single scene. What kind of set would you need? What kind of cast and costumes?"
"It takes years of study to do all of that. But practicing with just the words part (which is called the libretto), and just a single scene, might be a good way to start."
"Or consider writing a play, which would give you practice with creating characters and plot, but remove the complexity of composing the musical score also."
"Of course, if music is an area of talent, some composers do only the music, and have a second person prepare the words."
"Helping with an existing production - for example, with stagecraft or some other element would also help you learn the overall concept, and what would be required."
Rysiek wrote:
Appolonia wrote:
Appolonia turns to Maria.
"Are you a writer of libretto also? It is always a pleasure to meet another writer of song."
"Ah, I think you are looking for tickets for an additional evening? I can help you with that, or you can check at the box office."
At the offer of the ring:
"Oh. That is ... very thoughtful of you. I will take this in the spirit it is given, and tell you how grateful I am that you were moved by the performance."
She takes the ring, and smiles gently at Maria.
(Later, she will give the ring to the box office in case anyone returns seeking 'lost and found'.)
"Actually, I have no idea what a libretto is. Something free? I didn't have time to go the operas. Had to focus on surviving. The closest thing we had to music in Praga were the Synagogue and the church. The operas were on the other side of the Vistula. Where we stole. And who would allow a dirty kid in? And later, there wasn't one in prison... but I want to try to write one. Apparently, music is very mathematical. And if there is a thing I know, it is numbers and jewellery. So maybe, I won't fail spectacularely?"
--
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Appolonia%20VonRavenscroft
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Rysiek
Posts: 693
6/5/2016
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"So, where can I find a composer then? I can write, I hope I can do so well..." *Maria starts humming Korobieniki, before starting to sing, whih sounded... not good but not very bad.* "No go away, you annoying Vory, yes go away. I want to keep my life to a single woman. I want a job and my home ain't prison. I am a proud thief and I will be one outside of law... a thieves home isn't prison, 'cause what can a thief steal there? Nothing my dear, nothing my dear"
"Seems simple.... props" *Maria draws her revolver* "costumes.... rags, or a ratskin suit for the heroine, I need some strong, mean looking guy.... this scene will be set in or shortly after russian prison, heroine resists Bratva, who want to recruit her.... I can ignore they only take men for a second. Calculations? Something which gets.. 694784.... may be encrypted Ьратва... won't be expected.... maybe... 833.60417389^2.... unless I am misstaken and have made an error..."
--
The silesian Detective
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Rysiek
The incredible Warsovian. She certainly didn't steal your diamond necklace. That idea is RIDICULOUS...
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Maria~Konstantynopolska
The silesian vengeance seeker
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Agata~Grym
I apologize for any and all anachronisms. I am too lazy to check some facts if I am sure they are from the 1890s or sometimes think they are.
Oh, and by the way, I am not polish, I am GERMAN to clarify for heavens sake... tylko po polsku mowie. Um Himmelswillen...
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Eleonor Donegal
Posts: 16
6/5/2016
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An angular, ragged-haired woman in a rather understated picture hat plods her way in, steps punctuated by the thud of a typically gaudy cane. She has, once again, managed to fail at totally removing the soot of her profession, a smear of ash at the shoulder threatening to transpose itself onto her elaborate gown. Out of her mouth comes one of those peculiar American efforts at speech: "Late! Inexcusably late for everything! Nearly missed the Overture, didn't pin my hair properly, m'so sick of funerals and this one nearly made me miss your lovely-*Here she looks about* Quite a lot of people then, is it? Late for everything, that's me. Nevermind. Lovely vindication of the right to female self-determination I thought. Credit to suffragists everywhere! Good to see all the consideration of Drownie-kind, like I've said. Inspired syncretism, nicely dancing around the censorious impulses of the Ministry. Oh! And gorgeous music, but that's only to be expected of you, as ever. So, so sorry to be tardy.
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Shadowcthuhlu
Posts: 1557
6/6/2016
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"
"I do still have some copies around. I find them a bit embarrassing, but my Evensong decided to import the copies from the surface. She's on good term with the surface runners.
"Some favorite terms. . .well in my next edition I will be discussing the term "A Clockwork Orange," in reference to a supposed mythical steam beasts below London. Wnco Mwnco the man that stands in the corner of your vision. Popty Ping, nobody is actually sure what it means, but they use it everywhere."
edited by Shadowcthuhlu on 6/6/2016
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Dirae%20Erinyes. Closed to calling cards, but open for all other social action. I also love to roleplay.
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Gideon
Posts: 21
6/6/2016
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Gideon arrives at the party, dressed in a suit that is very fitting for a night at the opera. If he were at the stage during the performance that is. It appears to large for his frame, though it seems carefully tailored to fit. The various frills it is adored with could be called rather flamboyant if one wants to be polite. It makes him look a bit silly. Though he answers politely when spoken to, he keeps to himself most of the time
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Gideon
Posts: 21
6/6/2016
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When the crowd around Appolonia and Gul abates a little, he steps forward, congratulating her. “A fine work of art I thoroughly enjoyed, dear lady. Consider me one of your admirers. Some opera’s of great masters tend to make me run for the wings of the theater, but this one never did.” And with a small nod to Gul “A brave, talented and compassionate woman you have at your side sir, but you already know that, I presume.” He takes a small box from his jacket, a gift wrapped in black lacquered Japanese paper. “A small token of my appreciation for the beauty you have offered on me tonight, and hopefully will for many more.”
edited by Gideon on 6/6/2016
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Gideon
Posts: 21
6/6/2016
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He smiles a little wryly at Appolonia's last remark "I do hope then that your next work of art has a benevolent censor, given that you seem to find inspiration in the tales of your friends. But alas, I can no longer stay and have other matters to attend to. Thanks again for your invitation and till we meet again." And he leaves, with a nod of acknowledgement to Jolanda.
edited by Gideon on 6/6/2016
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Shadowcthuhlu
Posts: 1557
6/6/2016
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Jolanda Swan wrote:
"The Avalon Oracle?" asks Jolanda "May I ask how you picked the title?"
"Evensong, my second wife, has developed a real fondness for Arthurian mythology. She made a reference that reading events in a newspaper was trying to observe the world through Lady Shallot's mirror; just detached snippets of the greater whole. Since I started the newspaper for her, I figured the Avalon Oracle would a more poetic way to refer to that observation."
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Dirae%20Erinyes. Closed to calling cards, but open for all other social action. I also love to roleplay.
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Shadowcthuhlu
Posts: 1557
6/6/2016
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Dirae Erinyes pats both Agata and Appolonia on the back.
"Listen to Appolonia on this one, I'm living proof of the ability to love again. When I first arrived in the neath, I was a miserable wretch a of a person. Lost in grief and my attempts to escape. I stalked the streets of London more a sardonic shadow then a person, laughing at others who dared to love. And then I did a stint at the Foreign Office. . .Who knows where you will find someone?
It won't be the same, or even replace them. Nothing replaces that first love. But then, you aren't that person anymore."
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Dirae%20Erinyes. Closed to calling cards, but open for all other social action. I also love to roleplay.
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absimiliard
Posts: 759
6/4/2016
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Absimiliard dabs at their cheeks with a handkerchief, "I always cry at such things. It's not tragedy, it's happiness. You should have seen me at Lady Parelle and Sir Joseph's wedding." They smile, a sharp contrast to their tears.
"Let us hope things work out so well in all stories. I do not know if I would have the courage or strength to follow the Dragon's path and land at the end. I quite admire that resolve."
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edited by absimiliard on 6/4/2016
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"Because, Parabola!" -- the Curious Captain
Eating nightmares from friends -- and I'm easy to befriend.
Absimiliard: the Black Rose of Wolfstack Docks
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The Absurd Rogue
Posts: 1049
6/4/2016
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Eli begins chattering to Flesh-Stick excitedly, not noticing the gum still stuck in his hair. "Did you like it? I think it was positely revolutionary! I absolutely must meet the creator!"
Ezekiel groans as if he's embarrassed to be close to Elias' show of juvenile enthusiasm. It's abdomen swells alarmingly. "Want to skin person what invented waistcoats."
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"There is never another story. There is only one, and I try to tell it with every page. I fail, and I try again. There are no new stories; I have this one."
-S.N
RemainProfane#2532
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Rysiek
Posts: 693
6/4/2016
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The Absurd Rogue wrote:
Eli begins chattering to Flesh-Stick excitedly, not noticing the gum still stuck in his hair. "Did you like it? I think it was positely revolutionary! I absolutely must meet the creator!"
Ezekiel groans as if he's embarrassed to be close to Elias' show of juvenile enthusiasm. It's abdomen swells alarmingly. "Want to skin person what invented waistcoats."
Maria, who sat in front of Eli, was excited just as much, which may be the status quo for her. "Hey, Eli, do you think you could translate something for me into english? I think I have a nice message to deliver, after breaking in... and I won't take anything, I promise! And maybe I will Eliza here tomorrow..."
Agata, decided to let a note be passed to Absimiliard
'Dear Absimiliard,
why do happy endings always happen to other people? And how much of the wonderful myths in this opera were true? I would like to write an article about it! And I guess I may have to interview Appolonia... and who is the woman next to you?
Agata'
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The silesian Detective
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Rysiek
The incredible Warsovian. She certainly didn't steal your diamond necklace. That idea is RIDICULOUS...
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Maria~Konstantynopolska
The silesian vengeance seeker
http://fallenlondon.storynexus.com/Profile/Agata~Grym
I apologize for any and all anachronisms. I am too lazy to check some facts if I am sure they are from the 1890s or sometimes think they are.
Oh, and by the way, I am not polish, I am GERMAN to clarify for heavens sake... tylko po polsku mowie. Um Himmelswillen...
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Shadowcthuhlu
Posts: 1557
6/4/2016
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"We have flowers to deliver us well. It is nice to have something sweet to watch for once instead of tragic, mind-scarring, or simply obtuse."
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Dirae%20Erinyes. Closed to calling cards, but open for all other social action. I also love to roleplay.
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Shadowcthuhlu
Posts: 1557
6/4/2016
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Dirae Erinyes claps loudly. "Lovely, quite lovely. And no monsters had to be killed off." Evensong shrugs.
"I would've liked more dance numbers."
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https://www.fallenlondon.com/profile/Dirae%20Erinyes. Closed to calling cards, but open for all other social action. I also love to roleplay.
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Kukapetal
Posts: 1449
6/4/2016
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Flesh-Stick attends reluctantly, despite not being much of an opera fan, because the shows at Mahogany Hall are fairly cheesy that evening and he doesn't want to get kicked out yet again for chucking tomatoes at the stage.
He amuses himself during the first act by sitting behind Eli and sticking gum in his hair.
At the end of the opera he quickly leaps to his feet, causing the cast to cringe. Tomatoes, however, remain unchucked, as he is only giving a standing ovation.
Flesh-Stick: WOW, AN OPERA THAT DOESN'T MAKE ME CRY AT THE END?? I DIDN'T THINK IT WAS POSSIBLE! BRAVO! BRAVO! FREEBIRD! MAKE A SEQUEL! MAYBE SET IT IN SPACE! WOOHOO!
*runs out, waving his pants in the air enthusiastically*
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Vavakx Nonexus
Posts: 892
6/4/2016
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The Euphemian Game-Carver observes Flesh-Sticks display of questionable sanity from their side seat and sketches down other visitors and their reactions, the grimaces of woe and visages of calmness.
At the opera's end the Game-Carver provides some commentary on the piece "Interesting subject matter. Don't think I've seen an opera about the Drownies, and the Wings of Icarus have some interesting and poignant symbolism. Wonderful performance."
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Amets Estibariz, the Moulting Eidolon: Cradled by a sun all their own.
Blabbing, the Hobo Everyone Knows: The One Who Pulls The Strings. A Clarity In The Darkness.
Charlotte and the Caretaker: A family?
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absimiliard
Posts: 759
6/4/2016
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Absimiliard attends, but does not attend alone. They are beside a magnificent woman with a swan of gold in her hair.
They do not remove their glasses, but there are several moments when they wipe tears away. At the final act they openly weep, those nearby will make out something about "... weep at a happy ending, and any ending that cheats the Zee . .. ."
When it finishes they burst to their feet applauding.
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edited by absimiliard on 6/4/2016
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"Because, Parabola!" -- the Curious Captain
Eating nightmares from friends -- and I'm easy to befriend.
Absimiliard: the Black Rose of Wolfstack Docks
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The Absurd Rogue
Posts: 1049
6/4/2016
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Elias gives a standing ovation at the plays end, although Ezekiel seems unimpressed.
"Enjoyment." It says dourly, in the voice of a two year old. It crackles in a manner to suggest laughter.
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"There is never another story. There is only one, and I try to tell it with every page. I fail, and I try again. There are no new stories; I have this one."
-S.N
RemainProfane#2532
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