Advent Calender 2014 - Day 4

[Gift Giver]

Advent Calender 2014

Day 4

Snow

Greetings Everyone and welcome to the 2014 Advent Calender. Today is December 4th, which means Day 4 of the Advent Calender and the theme for today (If you couldn't see the big letters above) Is Snow! Yes, the white, fluffy, cold stuff that falls from the ground. We play in it, we throw it at people, we make things out of it. And in some cases... we just look at it! Well today, I've provided a picture that I want to hear described in your own words. Sure, anyone can just look at a picture. But I want to see how you would describe the picture I have. Can you paint a vivid picture in my mind?

Here are the rules for this event!

[li]This is a one part event. 1) Describe the linked picture in your own words, making sure to take note of everything in the picture as you do so. Be descriptive with this one! There's so many different elements to the picture that you can describe. Here's the picture! (LINK)[/li][li]This is a Submission Event! This means that all entries into this event are to be PMed to Gift Giver. The thread here will be locked the entire time.
[/li][li]This is a ONE DAY EVENT! That means that 24 hours from the time of posting, this event can be closed. Will it be closed immediately after that point? Nope! The thread isn't closed until I say that it is. So if I haven't posted saying it's closed, you can still submit your entries.
[/li][li]This event is going to be judged by me. Because of the array of submissions, I will be reading over all of them and grading them on a very specific scale. It will be graded on 4 main categories, and can receive 10 points in each category, for a total of 40 points
[/li][li]The four categories are: Accuracy (How accurately did you keep to the picture), Visual Appeal (Did you paint a vivid picture in my mind with description alone?, Flow (How well does the description flow from one part of the picture to another), and Excitement (Does your description so excitement or boredom).[/li][li]Keep in mind, Length is not listed in the above categories. Everyone takes a different amount of time to describe something. If it takes you longer, then feel free to take longer. If you can describe it easily in a paragraph, then do so. The choice is up to you. But make sure it shows some effort.
[/li][/ul]

• If you have a problem with any of the rules, PM Me! I'm an easy going guy, and if you waiting on a PM from me prevents you from entering this event, no worries. I will give you an extension equal to the amount of time you were waiting on me to respond. (If during the submission phase, the submission phase will be extended, and the voting will be held off until the extension is done.)
  
• Make sure to follow the four rules I listed in the main thread. Here's a link for convenience sake. (LINK)

Now for the fun part... The prize! The prize for Day 4's event is... a mystery! Yep, keeping this one hidden (Most will be like this). However, I will say there is a First, Second, and Third place prize here. How will that be determined? The scores! The top three scores will receive the prizes! There will also be a participation prize for those who submit an entry! Plus, remember that you have to participate in all 24 events to receive a special prize package at the end! So go out there and show me how well you can describe this lovely picture!
[/font]

[Gift Giver]

AND THAT'S IT!

Thank you all so much for your submissions. I received Seventeen total submissions for the Day 4 event. And being that I'm grading them all, it's going to be a little bit before I actually get them all graded. So bear with me for a little while while I get them all taken care of! As of this point, however... Submissions for the Day 4 Event are now closed!

[Gift Giver]

The grading is mostly complete. Just waiting to see if I get a response from a couple of people before posting. I'm giving until Noon tomorrow, MST, before I post up the grades as is.

[Gift Giver]

The Grading
Is Complete!

I've finished grading all of the submissions, despite it taking a lot longer than I had anticipated. This post here is just to list all of the submissions so everyone can see what people wrote. It does list the grades, but only in the order that I received the submissions. The next post will list a better version of the grades as well as those in First, Second, and Third place. But if you want to read what everyone posted, feel free to check this out here!

The Bearer of Bad News

SPOILER: Click to show

a log cabin sits next to a frozen river with a wooden footbridge. wintry flakes coat the scene at the woods' edge in a white veil. the time is dawn, or dusk, either way the sun is low in the sky, casting an orange glow over the land. the snowfall is not ongoing, as the sky is largely clear and blue, though the occasional cottony ball dots the horizon.

Grade: 5 + 7 + 3 + 2 = 17

Yoshi [Lynx!]

SPOILER: Click to show

Sit down besides me my child. Sit down, and let me tell you of a place, far far up to the north. A place where they say the spirit of christmas lives.

A sky of blue, a mountain top. Here the sun smiles, shines above! Casting light on life below, the crossing to his home will show. A feeling of calm here you will hold, the frozen lakes, like shimmering gold. A forest expanse, what hides inside? The Christmas' small helpers - they will you guide. Guide you across a bridge of stone, till you will find, the spirits home. A houseshining with colors of light, green red and blue, all shine so bright! If you dare to peek therein, you will see what hides within. Eat your fill, pork or duck, potatoes or hares - they bring you good luck. There's joyous laughter, singing and more! The christmas spirit, reaching your core. If you've been bad, he won't let you in. If not he'll ask; "Where have you been?"

A wondrous christmas to you I bestow. I wish you a merry:
Ho-ho-ho~

Grade: 9 + 10 + 7 + 10 = 36

@kaius

SPOILER: Click to show

I emerge from the winter pine forest, covered with flakes of snow; back from lumbering with my firewood in tow. I look up to an azure sky, what do I see? A beautiful winter sunset so familiar to me. I find my way across a bridge; small, arched and set in stone.

It was just over the river that leads under the bridge, into a glimmering lake; the water was frosty from winter snowflakes.

I look up to a heart-warming sight, what could it be? My family, all three, waiting for me. I smile at the sight, how happy it made me to see my son; my daughter and wife, all happy to see me.

We enter our house, decorated and built with stone; topped with snow, surrounded by undergrowth. As night falls we enjoy our Christmas Eve together, holidays are much more fun when spent together.

Invited and shared by a warm and cozy fire.

Grade: 9 + 8 + 7 + 8 = 32

Molokai

SPOILER: Click to show

Deep in the mountains, resting beside a frozen lake, is an idyllic cabin nestled comfortably into the bosom of the mountains. The cabin is tucked into the trees and the brush, which surround it like a thick, downy blanket before a fire on a cold night. Made of wood and brick in a rustic, timeless style, the cabin looks and feels like the safety of home. Warm, comfortable light glows softly from the open, inviting windows and spills onto the snow in the yard. A wreathe adorns the front door, and above this a broad window allows any who wish to look inside. The roof is high and deeply slanted, and thickly blanketed in snow. Christmas lights adorn the facade, and three chimneys gently waft smoke into the air, filling the woods with the smell of comfort and safety.

As the sun hangs low in the sky, lazily drifting off to sleep and casting soft firelight across the lake, the first stars of night wink to life. In the distance, the white hills rest stoically before the setting sun, like sleeping giants waiting for the long winter to end. Christmas is coming soon, and the light that spills from the windows of the cabin illuminates the path before it, inviting all who desire warmth and comfort to enter. A small bridge, sturdy and solid, bears the weight of any who wish to cross, reaching over the lake and offering safe passage to all who come by. Before the bridge, a path well worn and often traveled is covered in fresh snow, inviting new tracks to be made and new faces to be seen.

The warmth of a cozy fire and the safety of home at night await any and all who are cold, or lost, or hungry, or simply lonely. Welcome home.

Grade: 10 + 8 + 8 + 6 = 32

Oron Kazeraikou

SPOILER: Click to show

The sun fades in the distance, sinking low of the horizon. Light clouds pass overhead, and the sky begins to change from day into night, as night approached on this cold Christmas Eve. A stone cabin sits in the middle of a lake, shining with a warm welcoming light all throughout, and brimming with Christmas spirit. Its Christmas lights can be seen all around its multiple “A shaped” frame and a wreath hangs on its doorway, Christmas lights have even be placed along the wooden railings of the stone bridge to the house. Smoke rises from its chimney, helping create a even more overwhelming feeling of warmth and one of being invited within. The water is still over the lake, with the sun and house’s light glowing off the surface of the water. Snow had fallen all around it, leaving all looking white. The trees and the bushes, the rocks within the water, the roof of the house, and even the mountains in the distance are all covered in snow. Only bits of the original colors of the surrounds are peering through the snow.

Grade: 10 + 8 + 7 + 3 = 28

Nira

SPOILER: Click to show

The dirt path is veiled by a thin membrane of frost. There hasn't been quite enough snowfall for the entire path to be obscured, and you can still identify patches of brown along your route. These patches are like tears in the fluff, almost as if the wooly snow was stretched out and ripped.

Along your left, there is quite a wide river. It's moving calmly down the stream, with endless ripples born from collision against stray pebbles and rocks. The liquid surface is trembling.

A mixed forest surrounded this river. Some trees were bare bark and branches, almost naked except for the light bits of snow that rested on their tips. Other trees were evergreens, still with their grassy hues. The green and white mixed like sprinkles on ice cream, you could almost smell the mint.

The river is converging just ahead of you. The width of the stream is shortest there. You could probably hop across, but there's no need. In that shortened gap, there is a bridge made from blue and orange stones. The river passes straight through the circular arch underneath the bridge.

Your dirt path ends here. The naked trees have come to block your progression, forcing you towards the confined pathway on the bridge. The wooden railed above the stone archway are decorated in lights. Yellows, greens, and red were lit without any care for a consistant pattern.

This path ends in a house.

Better hope your name is not hansel or gretel, because this house resembles sweet delicacies. Its windows are tinted by the soft caramel light. Its walls are of stone, but they melt together like jellybeans. At the top, snow is layered like a heavy coating of cake frosting. White and creamy, and inviting your finger to reach over and take a swipe. At the border of the front walls, right under the frosty rooftop edge, lights traced along much like the railings of the bridge.

One... two... four, possibly five whole chimneys at the top of the triangular roof. There was bound to be warmth found inside.

It was too cold out here to stay much longer.

Though the sun was out, it was dimmed by the stray bundles of clouds in the distance. It looked too far away. Certainly, the size never changed. However, without bright light to turn our heads away, the dimmed star was shining like a yellow moon.

Great billowing hills stood up in the distance where the river turned away. The hills were lit by the sunlight, but that wasn't enough to warm them. They were still chillingly white. Few evergreens rose up along their foundation.

Not freezing, of course. The stream still rushed along without any sign of ice. Upon its shivering reflection was the warm windows of the isolated house, and the glow of the weakened sun.

Grade: 10 + 10 + 8 + 10 = 38

Father 'Suke

SPOILER: Click to show

Among the setting eve of the wondrous day, there sit a house surrounded by majestic beauty and holding its own out in this white wilderness. The slowly icing over water of the like that expands out the creek that flows in front of this house. The bone gnawing cold that slowly etches along the air until meeting that blast of heat surrounding the decorated home. Christmas lights gaze out into the night as to send their beauty out in the world. The front door hosting the wreath, a symbol of kind generosity for this sweet eve. The snow piled high, melted yet freezing over at the same time.

Glistening lights among the water, decorating not only the house but nature as well with such beauty. Such days as this, among the beauty that continued only to show the glorious significance of which even Angels will cry over. The smells of cookies and milk coming from the chimneys, blessing the eve with a more beautiful blessing than what one can ever find on their own. Such only come along, only to appear and show its own with the timeless beauty meets that of the special beauty of the house that puts its own mix once in the few times the year but today held more beauty than any time of those before.

The high and mighty evergreen that watches over this house covered in lights, the smoke coming from the chimney to be the only gift it needs. The large dinner taking place in the house for all lights are on, the young boy in the attic alone though, playing with friends he meets all over the world. The young child's christmas not just spent with family, but with his second family found on this website that mutually share the same craziness with him. Indeed, the very eve continues on with the darkening sky, the color changing clouds on this new moon evening. Come one come all, and enjoy this eve and eves to come.

Grade: 6 + 6 + 5 + 8 = 25

~Emi~

SPOILER: Click to show

The path to the lone house at the verge to the woods is a treacherous place to be as it sloops down into a small river and is covered in a thick layer of powder snow. A bridge is used to cross the small river and with the wooden fence the people are relatively safe to walk on the slippery stone. Since the outdoor temperature has reached way below zero despite still having the sun up, the warm house with lit candles are very tempting to approach. But whom would be on the other side of the door? A jolly figure celebrating something was obvious as the christmas lights were lit, but why locate a house so far out in nowhere? Maybe he liked to hike in the woods and hills, or maybe he just doesn't like company? Shame, perhaps we shall visit him another time. The traveler thought as he was about to make the first step on the virgin snow before he retracted his foot and turned around. Let's leave the snow untouched.

Grade: 4 + 6 + 7 + 7 = 24

acids

SPOILER: Click to show

In the distance, I see the sun light melting through wispy clouds as if they were snow; the lands are laden with the albicant fluff, a telltale sign that winter is either here or on its way. Thankfully, the skies retained their light blue complexion and have not been hit with the doldrum grays that accompany this wintery weather. Hills laced with snow stretch out before the horizon for miles as I continue to trek through the pine wilderness of the countryside. Over the evergreens that are lightly covered in snow, I see smoke rising: someone's abode in the distance, perhaps? I can even hear the light susurrus of water that hasn't been yet frozen coming from that same general vicinity. I cross over knotted hills in thick boots to stand at the edge of the far-off home. A bridge connects the mainland where I stand to the house that appears to be floating on a wintery isle; as I ease closer, the heavy crunching sound of snow betrays my stalking approach. I scatter to the left and gaze out at the beautiful building and admire what I see.

Lights adorn the outside of the house like a crown encrusted with fine jewels---yellows, reds, greens - these colors catch my eye as they hang just beneath the snow-laden rooftops, which could be likened to a mass of hoary hair. Truly, this place appears regal in the empty countryside. A warm glow is emitted from the windows of the home, and dance off of the river's surface and some of the light is reflected from off of the snow on surrounding foliage. For visuals, they have outdone themselves as I envision myself resting inside the hot walls of the home; the thought makes me sniffle, and as I do so, the aromatic scent of chocolate fills my nostrils as it billows out along with the gray smoke of the chimney. That smell alone was enough to entice me to advance further, not thinking on any hostilities that could be present within the house. Crossing the bridge, I look down and see my own reflection: a mass of green cloths envelope my body, which give me a more portly look as I wobble precariously towards the door of the home. Warm mittens hug my sweating fingers and I move to readjust the scarlet scarf I have tied around my neck. I motion my hand to knock, but at that same time, the door eerily creaks open...

Should I step inside? I have no weapon on me to protect me from what terrors could be lurking within these amiable walls, but at this point, I couldn't care. The heat that I felt escape the threshold and brush across my exposed face was inviting; and if that wasn't enough, that smell of rich chocolate had become something seductive. Tempting and agape to me, I entered into the winter retreat and was immediately taken back by the layout of this abode. 

As minute pieces of snow melted off of my attire, my eyes roamed the walls of the house. There had been a large black bear rug on the floor, which would have petrified me had I still been standing out in the cold; in here, though, I felt no constricting emotion. Only pleasure seemed to emanate from this finely built structure and I dared venture further inward to explore the rest of the living area. A massive fireplace was erected and had within it burning timber, which had been the source of smoke that had led me here. On the table had been treats: cookies, gingerbread men, mugs of hot cocoa. With another deep inhalation, I cleared the cold from my nose and sent my olfactory to chocolate heaven. 

Crash!

The sudden crashing of something had startled me and henceforth broke me from my mental rapture. What could that have been?.. My hand moved towards one of the fire prods near the fireplace and I grasped it firmly. But before I could heave the weapon above my hand to combat whatever entity had been in the kitchen, a mass of shadows quickly engulfed me and seized me from total movement. My body had been captured in a vicegrip that seemed to be the doing of the shadows that had once danced off of the back wall. 

"Where's there? Please, I don't want any trou---" too late. I felt a heavy weapon---a club, perhaps---whack me against the head. I fell down on top of the black bear's fur unconscious.

Grade: 4 + 10 + 10 + 10 = 34

zarak729

SPOILER: Click to show

As the warm Suns gentle embrace slips away slowly, as does its light and warmth on our body, a beautiful scene meets the eyes of the observer. The sky shades of blue and with sparse tufts of clouds across it. The snowflakes have stopped falling long ago, the ground is blanketed by a layer of snow. As the light of the Sun hits the snow, its dazzling whiteness is enough to bring tears into ones eyes. With each step a crunch would fill the silence, not an oppressive silence, nor an eerie one, but a peaceful silence that was just as appreciated when it was there as it wasn't when it was not. The consistency of the snow with each step would tell you that the Sun's feeble attempt at melting it away had failed. Rather the chill in the air, that would soon turn into a bite on the tip of the nose, would reveal that the temperature had kept the Suns influence at bay and preserved this beautiful scene.

Moving on, in the horizon, one would see hills nestled in the distance, covered in snow, and trees with leaves green yet black. Up close we can see two groups of trees in more detail. One could tell at a glance that at one point each branch held a multitude of leaves. Over time as snow accumulated, their weight would bring down the weakest of leaves and branches, until the stronger ones remained. In a few cases the branches were stripped bare of all their leaves, the tree left behind giving the tree a naked and vulnerable appearance. The bridge is a simple yet beautiful piece of stone craftsmanship. No metal handrails on this perfect arch but rather than a simple wooden fence.

To fall would be to disturb the peaceful waters which mirrored the warm lights from the cottage above. Clean waters thought they will be if one wished to parch their thirst, and not the ugly, impenetrable layer of ice. Nestled between bushes and a backdrop of trees is the cottage. From each window there is a glow of light that reflects the warmth inside the abode. Pinned against the door is a circle of green to welcome all invited and uninvited. Three chimneys, from each emits smoke, are used, no doubt there are three hearty fires in place to keep the occupants warm and cozy. Lights drape the house, blinking the festive colors of red, blue and yellow. The roof is also covered with a blanket of white, complimenting the beauty of the house.

Overall the beauty of the scene brings a longing into the eyes of the beholder to jump right into it, even if he/she hasn't even experienced the thrills of such a time of the year before.

Grade: 7 + 8 + 7 + 8 = 29

xenosheedin

SPOILER: Click to show

A cabin in the woods/ a gift she's never ever seen
This year is Christmas with my baby/ It's the only thing I need
Hot Chocolate and some mistletoe/ a fire burning bright
We're falling so in love/ as the snow is falling down outside

Let's grab another blanket/ We'll laugh away the cold
Another year is ending/ and you're still mine to hold
The icy wind is blowing/ snows piling at the door
Merry Christmas Baby/ For ever ever More

The Christmas lights that are hung outside/ shine beauty on her face
While she looks out at the fields/ of winter's stormy grace
Now the fire's burning low/ And we're both off to bed
She shifts right up next to me/ and this is what she said

Let's grab another blanket/ And dream away the cold
Another year is ending and you're still mine to hold
The icy wind is blowing/ snow's piling at the door
Merry Christmas baby/ for ever ever more

As long as I'm am holding you/ you never will be cold
No matter what time of year/ I'll never let you go
No amount of snow/ can keep from the girl that I adore 
Merry Christmas Baby/ For ever  ever more

Merry Christmas Baby~/ For Ever Ever More~

Grade: 1 + 1 + 9 + 10 = 21

Tora Tsume

SPOILER: Click to show

It's night time. Full moon is shining over the forest, illuminating it and making every little detail visible. Be it the soft fresh snow, glowing white and reflecting it, or even the lake, that's just of the verge of freezing under the small overpass that connects the wilderness to the cabin. It's probably Christmas - decorations are set and very neatly presented to the public, which isn't even there. A lone cabin, standing at the edge of the forest, showing the tiny bit of hope for anyone who's lost and seeks refuge with a friendly stranger who's probably waiting near by.

It's easy to imagine the scene. A perfect white Christmas. Or so you'd think. The picture is perfect, it's beauty is clear. It's easy to see that Christmas is here! Just knock on the door come on in, to the lone cabin, at the edge of the forest, where no one can hear you scream. Where night after night, the man lies in wait, hoping to find a victim to kill. Christmas is perfect, so everyone's friendly, he's expected to be kind, and helpful too, maybe? I hope you're all set, and ready, because the man dressed like Santa, at the edge of the forest, is waiting for you...

Grade: 7 + 6 + 9 + 10 = 32

Seira Kimura

SPOILER: Click to show

It was a chilly winter morning as you approached your destination. Following a dirt path that's lightly coated in snow, you would come to a little clearing, the peaceful sound of rushing water speaking of a river that has yet to freeze over in this cold season. Ahead of you, you notice the river stretching a bit further until it connects to a small little lake. The light of the rising sun shines upon the surface along with the fiery reflection coming from the cabin's windows. A nice little warm house sits on the other side of the river opposite of you. Made of stone, the color filtering through the glass speaks of a nice inviting fire to rest beside. With a relieved sigh, you take the rest of your steps forward through the pine trees, careful not to slip and fall as you leave foot prints in the white sheet beneath your feet. You come to a small stone bridge, curving upwards away from the water below. A helpful wooden fence, lined with festive colored lights, stands to each side of the crossing. Taking a hold of it you slowly make your way across, almost slipping on the ice hidden from view by the snow, but somehow catching yourself with the help of the rail.

Once across, you stand about ten feet away from the hut in front of you, the sun slowly reaching out higher into the sky, banishing the twilight and the stars that remained. Bushes stood to each side of you now as you took in the view in front of you. A thick blanket sat upon the roof of the building, sprinkled over the bushes and the ground. More of those pretty colorful lights sat along the line of the roof, bringing its own little form of holiday cheer to those within. With a small smile, you take the last few steps to the door, careful not to slips on the small stair in front of it, and give a light knock upon the dark wooden door, the only thing remaining that keeps you from entering within. You make sure not to knock off the holiday wreath and it's little red bow when you knock. As the door is answered, snow falls down off the roof on top of you, but it doesn't matter anymore. You have a place to go, a place to keep you warm and happy.

Grade: 8 + 10 + 10 + 10 = 38

Solus

SPOILER: Click to show

Slowly the alpine river flows across its sharp bend to the left, despite the cold the sound of the water running over the cobbles and stones in the river sounds soothing as it follows its course under the stone arched bridge. A white path is shone across the water in the bend behind the bridge by the luminous moon, rising over the bald snow topped mountains in the distance. The light cold breeze blowing from them rustles the trees surrounding the area, causing them to shake off a few flakes of the snow that is bending the branches under its weight. As a white powder it cascades every so often, adding more to the layer already covering the ground.

The snow crunches on the path leading over the bridge towards a timber framed house in the short side of the river bend. From chimneys on all corners of the sloped roof smoke lazily rises, its course barely changed by the little breeze there was. It sets the house apart from the rest of the environment. A place of warmth, safety and peace amidst the cold of the wide Bavarian mountains. Light shining from the large windows, reflects in the lake, its flickering orange colour revealing that somewhere inside a hearth fire is spreading its warmth. Behind the bay window that peeks from behind the bushes the silhouettes of people are moving, sharing joy inside. Clearly their mood is festive, reflected in the flashing lights that have been wound around the edges of the roof and the balustrade on both sides of the bridge.

Is it possible to go inside and join them? The Christmas wreath on the door looks inviting…

Grade: 8 + 10 + 8 + 10 = 36

|Ayame Unbound|

SPOILER: Click to show

The sun was just beginning to set. The fiery orb was beginning to sink to the west. The blue sky was barely streaked with the eventide colors. Small wisps of white clouds curled through the sky, a gentle wind blowing them. Soft mountains eagerly awaited the suns descent. The rounded caps were dusted with snow as always. The rocks beneath barely peeked out. It was those very hills that would hide the sun before its time. All of this created the backdrop to the house.

The ginger bread cottage was nestled firmly between a forest and a lake. The evergreen forest came alive in winter. Snow covered the mast on the ground and dusted the trees like icing. Strips of sunlight penetrated the boughs of the trees to paint a pattern of light and shadow upon the forest floor. Then there was the bridge. A well beaten trail was barely visible beneath the snow yet it led directly to the bridge. It was a work of wonder. A perfect arch of stone work, just high enough for a boat to paddle beneath, or skaters to glide under. Some mason had gone to the painstaking work of smoothing out the mortar and fitting it with stones. Tans mixed with grays to create a masterpiece. Carefully chosen wood formed the rails to the bridge. Each polished hand rail gleamed in the sunlight.

Then there was the cottage. Christmas made the cottage come alive. Already the interior lights were on, radiating a soft yellow glow onto the water. Lights carefully lined the house, multicolored bulbs burning brightly. In the bay window you can see the shadow of a tree, just waiting to be trimmed. The front door bears a welcoming wreath, a perfect round of pine boughs transfixed with an over sized red bow just inviting others to stop in and share glasses of cider.

Grade: 9 + 10 + 7 + 10 = 36

Draven

SPOILER: Click to show

I find myself walking through thick snow up to my knees. It was fresh as the wisps of the snowstorm already receding away beyond the horizon. The temperature had only recently fallen sharply to well below freezing. I can hear something...

What I say was my house just past the creek. A lake that had not yet frozen over, the sound of water soothing in an odd way. A breeze bit the end of my nose to remind me that winter had come. I was returning from a journey and so I was ill prepared for this sudden invite of winters embrace.

Trudging along I could already see the warm light of the cottage. Its inviting glow reaching out to me as if to caress my glowing red cheeks. The smell of burning wood being a clear indication that someone was home. The fireplace brimming with the warmth that I desire. I sneeze.

Perhaps a cold was coming on. I hug myself to keep warm. My numb fingers hurt as I continue along. A few more steps and I was upon the bridge that I traverse almost daily. It was tough trying to cross this small distance. My feet drug in the snow as it tugged against my shoes. Why didn't I see this breath of the north coming...

I take another step and fall to a knee. So close, I could almost reach the door to salvation. My breaths become short as I can hear the noises around me with more clarity. The colors I see almost become ghost like and the purples and reds intensify. I was freezing to death.

I try to get back onto my two legs but the bite of the cold was too much for my exposed skin. I look off to the right and see the sun slowly setting. The sight was breathtaking. Would this be my last? This vision that I see every morning. Something that by now I have taken for granted. My breath is stolen by not only the striking visage of the mountains but by the bitter cold of this wretched winters wrath.

I topple over. A shock hits my head. Had I hit a rock with my head? No, this was different, as if my head was in a vice. My whole body in flames with sharp pins and needles. I was suffocating. With blurred vision I could see the light from my house slowly fading. I was under the water, the icy cold finger of death narrowing in upon me.

I reach up trying to grab onto the warmth of the house, trying to find the strength to reach the surface of the water. It was futile, I was going to die. Death's hand gripped mine and the world went blank as I was yanked away from this world....

I wake up in the afterlife? It smells like hot chocolate... A blanket around my shoulders. The window to my right showing the last rays of today's sun. The majestic mountains remind me to appreciate today, and everyday after this. I was warm...

Grade: 4 + 7 + 8 + 10 = 29

Fujitora Hanzo/Azujinko Hanzo

SPOILER: Click to show

The world in the picture lends itself to a warm winter scene. The snow, while covering everything, covers it in just a way that would lend to a sense of winter wonderment. The lake in the picture, along with the water under the bridge, does not appear to be frozen over as there are ripples in the water and it reflects the light from the surrounding area with ease, showing that it isn’t having to reflect off a hard surface like ice, which would dull the colors. The trees in the forground would appear to be missing most of their leaves, which points to them not being ever greens. The trees in the background how ever appear to have most if not all of their greenery hidden by snow, which would only be possible if the leave/pines were still attached to the tree to hold the snow there.

The house appears to be made of cobble stone. The windows are large and clear, allowing the light from the inside to easily escape into the outside world. The smoke coming from the chimneys would indicate many fire, perhaps in different rooms of the house to provide even heating. The sun would appear to ether be early in the morning, or late afternoon almost headed to night time. The house is decorated with various lights and a wreath. It would appear to be decorated for Christmas.

Grade: 6 + 8 + 7 + 3 = 24

[Gift Giver]

But now comes time for the prizes for this event! Since this was all about a remote location in a beautiful place (Or at least, I thought so), the prizes are going to relate to travels and locations. So without further ado... Here are the winners!

Tied for First place, with 38 points each... Nira (Claimed) and Seira Kimura! For placing first, you receive... 4 Maps of your choosing, 4 Book: Reference Book, and 8 Travel Passes!
Tied for Second place, With 36 points each... Yoshi [Lynx!], Solus, and |Ayame Unbound| (Claimed)! For placing second, you receive... 3 Maps of your choosing, 3 Book: Reference Book, and 6 Travel Passes!
In Third place, with 34 points... acids (Claimed)! For placign third, you receive 2 Maps of your choosing, 2 Book: Reference Book, and 4 Travel passes!

The following receive the participation prize of 1 Map of their choosing, 1 Book: Reference Book, and 2 Travel Passes

@kaius: 32 Points (Claimed)
Molokai: 32 Points (Claimed)
Tora Tsume: 32 Points (Claimed)
zarak729: 29 Points (Claimed)
Draven: 29 Points (Claimed)
Oron Kazeraikou: 28 Points (Claimed)
Father 'Suke: 25 Points (Claimed)
~Emi~: 24 Points (Claimed)
Fujitora Hanzo/Azujinko Hanzo: 24 Points
xenosheedin: 21 Points
The Bearer of Bad News: 16 Points (Claimed)

So what do these prizes mean? Well I'll be happy to explain them!

Maps: These maps can be Known World, Continent, National, Regional, or Local. If it's a Local Map, it can only be of minor cities, Capitals, and YOUR hidden village. They cannot be for another hidden village. These maps do not have any Hidden village locations on them. But which map you get is up to you.

Book: Reference Book: These ones are a little bit specific. These books are to describe either Minor Cities, Capitals, or POI's. You get to choose what the books describe.

For both the maps and the reference book, you can look here to get the actual items: narutoforumrp.proboards.com/thread/102751/books-texts-scrolls

Travel Passes: These passes are considered free travel passes. Trying to get somewhere quick and don't have a compass? Worried a staff member might hit you with a Random encounter on the way there? Use one of these passes and bypass Compass and Random Encounter rolls. You cannot be misdirected, and you cannot be interrupted via Random Encounter. Just PM Me whenever you have chosen to use one so I can keep track of how many you have left.

The Travel passes don't have to be claimed to a specific account, but you do need to list which maps you're getting, where they are for, and what the reference books are describing, as well as which accounts are getting them.

And that's that! Thank you all for your wonderful submissions as well as your patience as you waited for me to grade them!

[Tora Tsume]

Scroll: Map: National
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of a specific Nation (Country).
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: National; entire kingdom. National Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. National Maps list the City Capitals, and "B", "A", and "S" Rank Cities of the Nation. National Maps list Major Trade Routes, Regional Locations, and Regions that reside in the Nation. National Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major Rivers that reside in the Nation. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that Nation.
Cost: 4,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview)- Containing information on POI's in Mizu
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

[Father 'Suke]

1 Map of their choosing
1 Book: Reference Book

SPOILER: Click to show

Scroll: Map: National (Rain)
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of a specific Nation (Country).
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: National; entire kingdom. National Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. National Maps list the City Capitals, and "B", "A", and "S" Rank Cities of the Nation. National Maps list Major Trade Routes, Regional Locations, and Regions that reside in the Nation. National Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major Rivers that reside in the Nation. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that Nation.
Cost: 4,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview) - Info on Rain's Capital
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

Prizes will go here

[Deleted]

claiming for The Bearer of Bad News

@tellar - 1x map of leaf village, 1x reference book on otafuku gai

[Oron Kazeraikou]

To this account

SPOILER: Click to show

Scroll: Map: National (Water)
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of a specific Nation (Country).
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: National; entire kingdom. National Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. National Maps list the City Capitals, and "B", "A", and "S" Rank Cities of the Nation. National Maps list Major Trade Routes, Regional Locations, and Regions that reside in the Nation. National Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major Rivers that reside in the Nation. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that Nation.
Cost: 4,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview)- Containing information on POIs in Mizu
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

[Draven]

This account

Maps:

SPOILER: Click to show

Scroll: Map: Local (Iwagakure)
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of a specific Nation (Country).
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: National; entire kingdom. National Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. National Maps list the City Capitals, and "B", "A", and "S" Rank Cities of the Nation. National Maps list Major Trade Routes, Regional Locations, and Regions that reside in the Nation. National Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major Rivers that reside in the Nation. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that Nation.
Cost: 4,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview)- History of Iwagakure Village 1,000 years-present
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

[Deleted]

Will be collecting on this account~

[zarak729]

Scroll: Map: National (Waterfall)
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of a specific Nation (Country).
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: National; entire kingdom. National Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. National Maps list the City Capitals, and "B", "A", and "S" Rank Cities of the Nation. National Maps list Major Trade Routes, Regional Locations, and Regions that reside in the Nation. National Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major Rivers that reside in the Nation. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that Nation.
Cost: 4,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview) - (POI in Hi no Kuni)
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo.

[acids]

Scroll: Map: Known World
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of any of the world's main continuous expanses of land.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Known World; entire Known World. Known World Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. Known World Maps list the Continents, Nations, and City Capitals, of those Nations that reside within the Known World. The Known World Map also states the Oceans, Bays, and Near By Islands associated to the Known World. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,000 Ryo Each

Scroll: Map: Known World
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of any of the world's main continuous expanses of land.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Known World; entire Known World. Known World Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. Known World Maps list the Continents, Nations, and City Capitals, of those Nations that reside within the Known World. The Known World Map also states the Oceans, Bays, and Near By Islands associated to the Known World. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview) [POIs of Thales]
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

Book: Reference Book (Overview) [Information of Cities of Thales]
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

items to be applied to the treasury of items located in Kirigakure no Sato if that's fine. looking to give my ninjas maps etc for missions.

will edit ref book overviews later

[Momoirohoshi]

Ayame Collecting for this account:

Scroll: Map: Known World
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of any of the world's main continuous expanses of land.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Known World; entire Known World. Known World Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. Known World Maps list the Continents, Nations, and City Capitals, of those Nations that reside within the Known World. The Known World Map also states the Oceans, Bays, and Near By Islands associated to the Known World. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,000 Ryo Each

Scroll: Map: National [Bear]
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of a specific Nation (Country).
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: National; entire kingdom. National Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. National Maps list the City Capitals, and "B", "A", and "S" Rank Cities of the Nation. National Maps list Major Trade Routes, Regional Locations, and Regions that reside in the Nation. National Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major Rivers that reside in the Nation. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that Nation.
Cost: 4,000 Ryo Each

Scroll: Map: National [Earth]
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of a specific Nation (Country).
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: National; entire kingdom. National Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. National Maps list the City Capitals, and "B", "A", and "S" Rank Cities of the Nation. National Maps list Major Trade Routes, Regional Locations, and Regions that reside in the Nation. National Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major Rivers that reside in the Nation. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that Nation.
Cost: 4,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview) [POI Crimson Forest]
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

Book: Reference Book (Overview) [City of Mitsubachi]
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

Book: Reference Book (Overview) [City of Soseki]
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

[Gift Giver]

Tora Tsume, you need to state what Nation that map is to be for.
Draven, Just know that that book isn't going to help toward the learning of any skills. It will not provide you with any bonuses.
@kaius, Just know that that book isn't going to help toward the learning of any skills. There is a separate Skill book that involves animal knowledge. This one would be more of a basic understanding, but, as I said, does not provide you with any bonuses.

Everyone else is fine.

Unclaimed: Yoshi [Lynx!], Solus, Fujitora Hanzo/Azujinko Hanzo, xenosheedin

[Deleted]

I know, I just thought of a random topic ^^

[Gift Giver]

Haha, sounds good. I just wanted to be sure you knew in case you wanted something different

[Molokai]

Claiming:

Scroll: Map: Known World
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A map of any of the world's main continuous expanses of land.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Known World; entire Known World. Known World Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. Known World Maps list the Continents, Nations, and City Capitals, of those Nations that reside within the Known World. The Known World Map also states the Oceans, Bays, and Near By Islands associated to the Known World. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,000 Ryo Each

Book: Reference Book (Overview) Capitals of Countries.
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo

[Tora Tsume]

Uhh...Mizu!

[Nira]

Claiming for the character on this account.

Getting all maps as "Amazing Quality Charts"
1.5 Price Modifier, which I assume is irrelevant.

Getting four capital city maps of the following four countries: Fire, Earth, Grass, and Lightning.

Amazing Quality Chart
Scroll: Map: Local
Rank: "B"
Type: Secondary, 1 per Slot, Scroll, Map
Effect: A city map is a large-scale thematic map of a city (or part of a city) created to enable the fastest possible orientation in an urban space.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: Local; nearby landmarks. Local Map's dimensions are 40 inches by 24 inches. City Maps list Major, and Minor Roads of that city. City Maps list Point of Interests in City. City Maps list the Buildings of the City. City Maps list Major and Minor Trade Routes, and Regions that reside in the City. City Maps lists the Oceans, Bays, Major and Minor Lakes, and Major and Minor Rivers that reside in the City. The Maps may be folded and can fit inside Map Holders found in Vests.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop within that City.
Cost: 3,000 Ryo Each

Reference Books:
Santōryū Techniques
Busōsen Techniques
Marksman Techniques
Medical Techniques

Book: Reference Book (Overview)
Rank: "C"
Type: Main, Book, Reference Book
Effect: A book intended to be consulted for information on specific matters rather than read from beginning to end.
Special: ---
Drawback: ---
Description: A reference work is a book or serial publication to which one can refer for confirmed facts. The information is intended to be found quickly when needed. Reference works are usually referred to for particular pieces of information, rather than read beginning to end. The writing style used in these works is informative; the authors avoid use of the first person, and emphasize facts. Many reference works are compiled by a team of contributors whose work is coordinated by one or more editors rather than by an individual author. Indexes are commonly provided in many types of reference work.
Limit: These items may be bought inside any Book Shop.
Cost: 3,500 Ryo