OPEN ● ● ● Every Christmas is Last Christmas

[lateness]

CHARACTERS: the doctor (12), the doctor (11), clara oswald, river song, and all of you
LOCATION: the mess hall, the kitchens, the simulation room
DATE: december 24th, 25th
CONTENT: team tardis throws a big christmas party for the station
WARNINGS: none for now, will warn as needed (no fires!!!)

PART I
'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS ...

1.0 Inside the kitchen and mess hall, Orbers will find the entire place decked out to the nines (Or elevens! Hohoho). No one knows how this all came together, but you will find almost everything Christmas related decorated along the walls and tables.

Hanging all around the walls are blue Christmas stockings! Each stocking will have the name of Orber etched in gold knitting. Inside each stocking is an array of personalized treats (if your character is a smoker, for example, then they will find a pack of cigarettes, a lighter, etc.)

On the tables at each place setting there are various coloured paper crowns for Orbers to decorate on their head – courtesy of Clara Oswald and her assistant, the Doctor (the chinny one) – and Christmas crackers to share with friends. Go on, then! Pull that cracker, see the assortment of sweets and surprises you’ve received. As far as refreshments go, there is plenty to share amongst everyone! There is eggnog, "naughty" eggnog, cookies, cakes, candy canes and sugar gumdrops. It is a downright delightful spread of treats to indulge and tide you over for before you feast with your teammates.

2.0 Before the main feast is prepared, there are plenty of activities to keep you (or a friend or two) occupied. Do you see those Christmas trees on almost every corner of the station? Yeah, the Doctor(s) got awfully distracted (something about if a hot dog is a sandwich) and these bare trees could use some decorative love. Or perhaps you can express your creative talents in the kitchen, where you may want to test out a new recipe to share with the rest of the class. Whether it be a savoury or a sweet dish, there is sure to be at least one person who might like it.

There is also a magician’s kit lying around if you want to take a crack at learning a few new tricks to show off to others! Or if you wish to partake in any group activity, there is a stack of board games and a deck of cards to play a friendly game of Go Fish! Who knows? The game-world’s your oyster.

3.0 By evening, the mess hall will be set up with napkins and plates and cutlery of varying Christmas-y colours. It isn’t perfect, but nothing ever really is, is it? Especially after the Doctor (the cross Scots one) might have very nearly burned the kitchens down a little earlier – something about improving the heat for the roast. Still, it’s finally time for the Christmas feast! And oh, what a smell there is wafting through the large space. There’s plenty of delicious food to go around – especially using much of the ingredients that had come in through the last supply drop. There are varying plates of savoury and sweet dishes, some recognizable, some a little more ... eclectic (you use what space ingredients you’re given, after all), but all of what the hosts have prepared look ... surprisingly edible, some of it even delicious. Roast veg, gravy, stuffing, biscuits, gingerbread, hot cocoa, marshmallows, something mulled, and sweets!

Of course, the more food, the merrier! If you’ve taken part in the cooking and baking from earlier, arriving with your own special Signature Dish, the Doctors (yes, both of them!) will be so pleased to see it join the rest of the feast.

And for those who might have run across the Doctor’s enthusiastic ramblings on Jammie Dodgers at one point will finally get a chance to try them. They’ll be stacked up to resemble a tree on a plate, sprinkled with (edible) glitter in blue and silver.

PART II
SIMPLY HAVING A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS TIME

4.0 Christmas Morning finds everyone with an open invitation to the simulation room to attend a very merry Christmas morning. Step inside and be taken away to a warm and cozy living room that is elaborately decorated for the holiday. You’ve been decorated for the occasion too, decked out in pajamas and a robe. With slippers to match, everyone that’s a part of Christmas morning will look like they’re ready to play their part in the festivities. There’s a fire crackling in the fireplace, the smell of cinnamon and clove in the air, and the distant sound of traditional Christmas songs playing on an antique radio over in the corner of the room. There’s also a tree, of course, one that almost seems too large to be in such a quaint place. It’s fully decorated, absolutely covered with a variety of kitschy ornaments like Santa Claus on a T-Rex or bears in tutus. There also happen to be ornaments of every single orber present on the station, presented in the form of ridiculous looking little elves.

Around the tree and scattered around the floor are opened gift boxes, wrapping paper strewn about. Toys from the boxes are discarded on the floor and around the room, plastic dinosaurs and robots that come to life when you wind them up. There are ridiculous looking squeaky alien toys, marshmallow launchers, and even a giant stuffed giraffe. Who could all of these toys belong to?

There also happen to be gifts beneath the tree for everyone. There aren’t any labels on the gifts so feel free to choose whichever one you like (but only one, there won’t be any greedy Scrooges here on Christmas!). No matter what size package that is chosen, big or small, there’s a sweater inside: an ugly Christmas sweater for everyone. One that can be put on over your pajamas to take part in an ugly sweater contest once everyone has unwrapped their gifts.

And of course no Christmas morning is complete without some sort of breakfast. Set up in the corner of the room is a small table with pastries and cocoa, with a big bowl of mini marshmallows. There’s coffee present too, for those that prefer their breakfast with a little less sugar. There’s plenty of seating around the living room to grab a leather chair or a spot on the fluffy couch. Or maybe sit in one of the red velvet chairs over by the windows to watch the slow and steady snowfall over a picturesque view of the British countryside.

5.0 As the events of the morning slowly come to an end, the simulation shifts to a quiet little town. There’s snow on rooftops and colorful lights lining buildings that manage to glisten and glow even in the daylight. The entire street is completely over the top with decoration; fresh garlands that smell of pleasant pine, miniature christmas trees decorated from top to bottom, and vibrant red bows are just about everywhere. There’s no hustle and bustle here, just a relaxed afternoon in the most Christmasy town ever.

The smell of cider and gingerbread baking are in the air, brought on by a bakery that’s open for a visit. Want to make a gingerbread house? There are materials set out to do that. There are things for gingerbread people too, if that’s more your bag.

There’s a bookstore filled with all kinds of books. If you’re not from Earth and are curious about Christmas, there’s plenty of children’s books on the matter waiting for you to enjoy. They’re set up on an elaborate display up front, though anyone is free to browse around and look through what else they have to offer.

A toy store, magician’s shop, and a boisterous pub round off the shops found on the street. There’s street vendors selling chestnuts that have been roasted over an open fire, wassail, and marshmallows for roasting. There’s also a band playing live music, Christmas carols of course. Join in and sing along or don’t. No one’s going to judge you either way. Take your time to enjoy everything or rush through because it’s too much Christmas, all in your face at once. Either way, the marketplace is present for hours in the afternoon and leading into the evening hours.

6.0 As night falls everyone is guided out of town and down a candle lit path that leads to a frozen over pond. It’s been set up for ice skating, with skates set aside for anyone that wants a pair. There’s baubles of lights set out all around the area, and the moon hangs high overhead. No seriously, the moon looks incredibly huge tonight. It’s blue glow reflects on the ice along with the warm yellow glow of all the lights. It’s a welcoming atmosphere, inviting anyone that’s brave enough to put on skates and take part.

The band from the Christmas market earlier are back to play throughout the night, playing quieter songs mixed in with lively pieces that are meant to get people speed skating around the ice.

Set a short distance away from the ice is a long table, with plenty of mismatched seats. Fairy lights twinkle overhead, and are also glowing from inside glass canisters that make up the centerpieces on the table. There’s dark blue galaxy dinnerware at every place, and a small feast spread out so no matter where someone sits there’s plenty within reach. It always manages to stay warm, and nothing ever seems to run out. It’s a perfect place to take a break and grab a quick meal, or just sit and chat with someone while you both enjoy a drink.

The area around the pond can be explored, so go crazy playing in the snow or whatever it is you want to do there. Just don’t wander too far off from the group. There may or may not be razor-toothed snowmen keeping you from going too far. They may hiss or blow snow in your face, but they probably won’t try to bite anyone.

🎄 After all of that is said and done, Orbers may find themselves drawn towards a small bonfire billowing from the center of this quaint little town. But it isn’t just the scent of warm Maplewood dancing underneath your nose. There sitting on top of a milk-crate is The Doctor (12) playing a jaunty little tune from his electric guitar. Orbers are more than welcome to sit around the bonfire and reflect on these past few months and where they might find themselves in the future.

If you find yourselves by your lonesome fear not! The Doctor (11) will be there offer you a hug (or smooch if you’re feeling saucy).

No matter what strife you have been through this year, just remember ...

Each and every one of your lives is a story. So best make it a good one.

Comments

dean winchester | supernatural - all prompts OTA

[ruinously]

𝒫𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝐼

[ It may come as a surprise, but Dean is actually a fairly decent cook. He can be found in the kitchen, a festive apron tied around his waist as he throws together what passes for marsala meatballs -- provided the ingredients are available, of course. Seems like they might be, though, so everyone is gonna be eating some tasty stuff later at the feast.

And, once dinner is served, Dean is proudly bringing said meatballs out for everyone to enjoy. Cheers, kids. ]

𝒫𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝐼𝐼

[ If anyone is happy to wake up in Christmas pajamas, slippers and a robe - it's Dean. He feels like a kid for the first time since he was probably three, so he's here for the festivities, and will be putting on his new ugly sweater over his pajamas and heading towards the festivities.

Throughout the day, Dean can be found any number of places - the little town, for starters, because he can't help but investigate this whole world that's been created for the sole purpose of Christmas. He's also in the bookstore and the pub, and can eventually be found later in a dark green sweater, eating some chestnuts as he wanders towards the skating rink, which he proves not to be very good at, but hey -- give him a hand up?

After dinner, he's at the bonfire, sitting by himself (until you join him, that is), hands wrapped around a hot toddy (very much full of whiskey, the bottle is by his feet), staring into the flames and, for the first time, fervantly wishing Sammy were here with him to celebrate. ]

((ooc; feel free to hit me with a wildcard if there's something else you're interested in doing, or hit up Dean's open mistletoe prompt if that tickles your fancy! i'm easy :> ))

I

[hatejakku]

[ Finn had been hanging back during the party, mingling when he wanted but mostly just watching what everyone else was doing. He did much the same during Halloween.

But when Dean stops by him, Finn has a little laugh about the apron before trying one of the meatball things and oh kriff-- ]

That is so good.

[ He takes another if Dean doesn't swipe the plate away. ] What are these?

[ruinously]

[ Dean is more than happy to let Finn swipe a few, holding the tray steady. He recognizes the voice, remembers the whole meet the goal thing. Awk, but it's Christmas, and Dean's drank a little of the marsala cooking wine, so. yolo ]

Marsala meatballs. Badass, am I right?

[ Don't mind him tooting his own horn a little. ]

[hatejakku]

[ Oh, Finn recognizes that voice, too. He'd been wondering about him for awhile and smiles at the recognition. Doesn't mention it, though.

What he does do is laugh again. Badass meatballs. That's not a wrong description. ]

They are. What's in them? We actually had the ingredients here?

[ruinously]

[ Nope, just gonna move right on along. Don't need to talk about his man tears. ]

Well, I'd kinda wanted to do stuffed mushrooms, but I thought maybe people were kinda tired of like...plant food? I talked to a couple people who love red meat so I thought I'd do a twist on it. So there's marsala wine, breadcrumbs, cream cheese...garlic.

A lot of stuff. I kinda bastardized a recipe. But I think they're friggin' amazing.

ii. ice skating

[calmness]

[ice skating is something xichen enjoys back home, when the lakes in the mountains freeze over in the winter months.

he's taught his brother, then his nephew and the young disciples of the lan sect before. so, watching as dean struggles -- well, he can't help but feel the need to help.

he manages to skate up to dean's side as he teeters, but is not so fast that he stops the man from falling. he looks apologetic at that but does offer both hands to the other to help him up.] Are you alright? [he tilts his head, offering a very gentle tease when dean's recovered.] Looking ahead instead of at your feet may help prevent another fall.

[ruinously]

[ Dean belongs on horseback, not on skates - that much is obvious. His bow legs do not allow for grace of any kind.

He looks annoyed as he sits there on his ass, the ice cold under his jeans; like he's debating setting it all on fire. Dean will, however, take the assistance that's offered. ]

Man... I'm just not great on skates. [ His cheeks are pink - embarrassment? the cold? frustration? - and he laughs a little, both at the tease and himself. ]

Yeah, well. I've never done this, and now I know why.

[calmness]

There are no frozen lakes where you're from? [xichen asks as he helps dean balance, keeping his arms within reach in case the other wants to use them to balance.]

I'm happy to assist if you want to learn but it is quite treacherous. [teasing, still. it seems he's in a mood.]

[ruinously]

There are, here and there. Depends on what part of the country.

[ He's slipping and sliding a little, gripping xichen as if his life depends on it. ]

It is, [ he knows you're making fun but dammit he's gonna have a bruised ass for days. ] Why do people do this? Do they really think it's fun?

[calmness]

Ah, then it was a lack of desire to try?

[xichen remains at his side and then, to make things a bit easier, moves so he's in front of dean and offering his hands out to stabilize him as he ends up skating backwards himself. it requires the occasional glance over his shoulder, but he remains balanced and quite graceful through it.

he may be showing off a tiny bit.] I believe so. Once good enough, I know the disciples at home enjoy racing and trying tricks they've learned. Something about adrenaline and speed, taking a last minute turn.

[this one is guilty of it too.]

[ruinously]

Kinda.

[ ugh, all you graceful jerks on ice. Dean is such a cowboy, this is not his forte. ]

I can see that in driving. Sometimes I take Baby out on the road and push her to the limit. Maybe the same rush I guess.

[calmness]

I find the same sort of thrill with flying. [it's easy to admit, though it has him realizing that that's something he has not indulged in a while.

he cocks an eyebrow at dean then.] Baby is.... your car?

I

[winscenario]

[ Jim has been in the kitchen for a while now too, preparing a potato casserole together with Bones, looking very cozy and happy with the doctor. He's dressed in less festive/blatant gear than Dean, his green turtleneck and the gold paper crown atop his head the only touches of festivity, but his apron is tragically black and graphic-less. ]

That smells good... [ He leans in next to Dean, peering at what he's doing. ] What is it?

[ruinously]

Clara get you too? [ Gasp, no well hung apron for you Jim? That's a damned shame. Dean also, at this point, has a green crown perched jauntily on his head as well. ]

Oh-- they're... [ He chuckles a little, cause they were supposed to be stuffed mushrooms but the player is a dumbass and said meatballs so-- ]

Well, this was supposed to be stuffed mushrooms. It's a recipe I saw on some cooking show back home, ever hear of Julia Childs?

Anyway -- I know I'm a meat eater, love it, so I thought I'd do a twist on the recipe and do stuffed meatballs instead. There's marsala wine, breadcrumbs, cream cheese...garlic. A bunch of stuff.

[winscenario]

Not quite, [ He huffs. ] Friend of mine and I decided we'd lend our hands to the task, and cook a family meal of his. He's, ah— Dr. McCoy, he's around here. You've probably met him, he's practically running the infirmary at this point.

[ Little does he know that Dean would know who he is by name (and by fame), even if not personally. ]

Not really, no, [ He shakes his head. Probably well before his own time, and while Jim does know a lot of late 20th and early 21st century culture, he can't say that he ever cared about cooking before arriving at the station. ] Well, they look pretty good. I can't say I'm much of a meat eater myself, real meat even less so, but I'll have to give those a try when they're done.

[ruinously]

Oh, yeah -- Bones, right? [ Name and fame both, and he's pretty sure it was him, specifically, Bones was talking about on the most recent network post in regards to liquor in the medbay.

Oops. ]

She was some British cook lady that was also a British spy-- anyway, they're really good, and you should definitely give them a go. [ He'd thought about making his macaroni marshmallow fluff, but somehow, he didn't think anyone here would appreciate it quite like Sammy did. ]

[winscenario]

To me, he is, [ He says, rather pointedly. Excuse him if he gets a little defensive about the nickname, but it's not the first time someone else brings it up, and he will continue to press how it's a thing exclusively between him and Bones, with as little subtlety as possible.

His brow raises when Dean tries to explain this cook. Weird combo, but sure, he'll take it. ]

I will. Help yourself to some of our casserole too, when it's done. [ He tips his head down. ] I like the apron, by the way.

[ruinously]

[ He holds his hands up in defeat. You win, you win. Doc Brown it is. ]

What kinda casserole is that? It looks friggin' amazing.

[winscenario]

[ Yes, thank you. Everyone's getting way too fond of his nickname, go get your own. ]

Potato casserole. I think it's a Georgian thing. Or just a McCoy thing? I don't know, but it smells amazing. He's very good in the kitchen, I'm still learning myself.

bonfire

[bossily]

[The bonfire goes on until late into the night, and it's when many of the others have already gone that Clara finds Dean. The fire's still burning bright and is pleasantly crackling, the smell of wood burning and smoke hanging heavy in the air. The scent of it is lightly to blanket the both of them for a while, with how they're lingering out by the flames. But Clara doesn't mind that. It's one of those comforting, nostalgic sort of scents.

Clara quietly slips over to sit beside him, not asking permission before picking up the bottle of whiskey. She opens it and takes a slow sip straight from the bottle.]

Who is it you're missing tonight?

[She wonders softly, not looking away from the flames. She knows the look of ache and longing, of missing someone you care for.]

[ruinously]

[ He's eased out of his trancelike stare into the flames by the gentle interruption of Clara, but it isn't unwelcome at all. He blinks out of it and looks around - it's just them now, and that's fine with him. ]

My little brother.

[ Maybe not the answer she expected, but there it is. ]

[bossily]

[She isn't expecting that answer, but she's glad that he feels like he can tell her. She takes another drink before holding the bottle out for him to take. Maybe he's needing to add more to his cup right about now.]

Tell me about him.

[There's a pause as she looks from the fire over to him, smiling sadly.]

[ruinously]

[ He does, very much. It's appreciated, and he's pouring it right into his mug. ]

He's...a little jerk, you know? Like how most little brothers can be. Smart as hell, though. And he knows it, too, which makes it worse. But he's kind, too. Empathetic, just wants to help people, save the world.

[ He takes a long swig of his drink. ]

Even if he makes all the wrong decisions trying to do it, they're well intentioned.

[bossily]

How old is he?

[Dean makes him sound like a child, a bratty younger brother that's always getting in his hair. She can hear the admiration for the kid in Dean's voice, though. And that endears him to her a little more.

He's not all flirting, drinking, and mistletoe. There's a softness to him once you start peeling back the layers. And she's grateful she gets to see that side now.]

[ruinously]

Twenty-six. [ ish. spn time is weird. ] I know he's old enough to make his choices, but I raised him, you know? So I feel responsible for him and his decisions, and he's all I've got. So when he screws around and--

[ -- picks a demon over his own brother and literally beats his ass over her, kickstarts the apocalypse cause he wouldn't listen to reason or his own damn family... ]

It hurts.