MINI-EVENT: CODA - IC EVENT LOG

[abraxasmods]

Mini-Event - Coda

OOC event plotting

---

Mid-April, you receive two formal invitations. They arrive separately in two distinct envelopes and do not appear to be precisely related.

◎ The first is from Solvunn, signed and sealed by the Solvunn Council. It informs the reader that on April 18th, Josselyn Creed's fate will be publicly carried out according to Solvunn's traditions with the Old Gods. The location is in neutral territory, a safe distance from the Singularity's crater. The Council expresses deep regret for the actions of one of their own and invites you to attend as an observer if you wish to find closure. Portals are provided. The proceedings will be in the morning.

◎ The second is from your respective faction. The letter is less solemn and invites you to attend a weekend gala on April 21st - 23rd. It acknowledges that recent times have been difficult and that faction officials and locals wish to repay the Summoned for their contributions. Portals to each location are provided.

Divine Judgment

In the weeks leading up to Josselyn Creed's execution, many of you were allowed to question Josselyn. Now that you've received the answers you're seeking - as much as you were able to - officials have granted you the chance to gain some closure and witness her execution.

The factions will warn the Summoned that Solvunn does not take angering the Gods lightly. Her death will not be quick and will likely be sacrificial. They advise anyone who may not have the stomach for it to remain home and enjoy the festivities at the end of the week.

Attending her execution is optional and open to all. New arrivals are welcome to watch...though they may not want to. All characters may skip this portion of the event.

Participants of Event #12 are still welcome to speak to Josselyn. This section will close on April 30th.

Last Rites

CW: Disturbing imagery, animal death, ritualistic sacrifice, body horror.

So that all can attend, Solvunn will perform Josselyn's last rites in neutral territory. Anyone who attended the Peace Summit last year will recognize the area, though the colorful tents are gone. In their place are some plain stone benches and a temporary altar. Thick mists roll into the valley, bringing a chill to the air. As you arrive, you see Solvunn mages instructing volunteers to right certain stones as the last touches are added. Present to represent the other two factions are Jolene Sybell of Thorne and Reva Hym of the Free Cities.

The stones are arranged in spiraling circles, with twelve arches that span them. Carved into the ground beneath the arches are each of the Major Arcana. Find your matching Arcana and leave an offering if you want. You're told the gesture will appease the gods and ensure the "cleansing" is successful.

The Moon, Josselyn Creed's Arcana, has been carved into the center stone. If you share her Arcana or are The Emperor or Justice, Solvunn mages will approach and ask you to write your name in charcoal into the stone. If you bear any of the other signs, you can also do so, but you won't be asked directly.

Preparation

Soon, a hush falls over the crowd as Isar Hart comes forward with a black sheep in tow. Several Solvunn Elders flank the sheep as it's placed before the altar. They paint large winding lines and runes on its wool and face. Winifred Bordeaux turns to the crowd. She states that the wrongs born of the commune are always made right by Solvunn's hands and seeks forgiveness. The gods may cast judgment as they see fit.

Mages begin a haunting chant in an ancient tongue. With a large bone knife, Winifred kneels next to the sheep and slices its throat. As warm blood flows over the ground, it fills each etched Arcana sigil. The sigils glow a faint red upon contact, and the grass around them withers and blackens. Once fully drained, the Elders carefully skin the sheep. Its organs are placed in jars as it is hollowed out. With the skin removed, the Elders lay it on the altar and declare that those who stray from the gods must be brought back into the fold.

One of the stones vibrates, releasing Josselyn Creed into the hands of waiting Elders. As she's dragged to the altar's center, she decries Solvunn for being blind, accusing them of turning away from the truth. The old ways have long stopped serving them, she declares. The Old Gods are no longer listening.

Penance

Holding her in place, Rowan March places the skin of the black sheep upon her. The wool stretches outward to envelop her limbs, covering every part of her in the pelt and muffling her shouts. As each bone bends and snaps loudly in the silence to take the form of a sheep, her body collapses with anguished cries. Finally, a mass of quivering wool and human sinew is left, the sheep's face ajar on her broken skull.

The chanting reaches a crescendo, then stops abruptly. The mist thickens, swirling towards the altar. Your surroundings darken. From the gloom comes a massive bird-like silhouette. Its enormous wings shadow the sky, blocking out the sun. Though the figure's form is obscured, the dozens of vultures that descend are visible - and so is the feast that ensues.

Through the fog and shadow, you glimpse blood and flesh tearing. Slowly, the mist begins to clear as each bird takes its fill. The silhouette above withdraws. What remains before you is a pile of bones picked clean...and the recognizable head of Josselyn Creed beneath the sheep's mask, the only part of her uneaten.

Immolation

The Council allows all in attendance to confirm Josselyn's identity and her fate, ensuring that the factions and the Summoned are satisfied with the outcome. A ritual fire lights up on the altar. Her head is placed in first by one of the Elders.

The rest of her bones are in the sheepskin. No blood or flesh remains. The pelt is startlingly clean for such a gory display. You're invited to paint your Arcana on a bone and place the bone into the fire as a gesture to the gods that you've accepted the punishment they chose for her.

The atmosphere is solemn. Winifred offers her thanks on behalf of the Council for allowing Solvunn to make amends for Josseyn's misdeeds. They deeply regret this was necessary but promise they'll take steps to ensure it never happens again.

A few remain to watch her bones finish burning. You may join them if you like or return home at once. A harsh silence fills the ceremonial grounds as you step through the portal.

Weekend Gala

Several days after the execution, the cities prepare for the feast and gala. On the day of, portals will open up in the main hub of each city: Castle Thorne in Thorne, the Primary Settlement in Solvunn, and Cadens in the Free Cities.

You're welcome to arrive on the first day or skip the speeches and arrive on the second day for the main dinner and event. Everyone will be sent home on the third day (April 23rd), though the factions would be happy if you'd like to volunteer to clean up and take down decorations before you go. Not to worry if you'd rather go home - they have plenty of staff and locals for the job.

Each city will provide a place for you to stay for the weekend. They'll choose their best inns for you, except Solvunn. Solvunn will offer a comfortable communal tent for all attendees to share.

Thorne (Hayle)

The first evening, the King and Queen will gather guests into a grand hall at Hayle University. The King formally welcomes and expresses Thorne's gratitude for everyone's safe return. He heralds the Summoned and those involved in the terrible incident for their fortitude and bravery. The Queen follows afterward, adding that she is glad justice has been served and that they can be assured Josselyn Creed can never harm anyone again. She acknowledges the formation of the Summoned Conclave and promises Thorne will always serve those who are steadfast in their loyalty.

In a rare moment, Ambrose Rhett and the Duchess, Anastasia Rhett, can be spotted standing side by side in the background. Jolene Sybell is also present. Ambrose, however, will not be seen past the welcoming speech, returning to the Castle after.

Gifts

As a resident of Thorne, you'll receive a gift bag containing:

◎ A sweet dream potion that grants the user happy dreams and a good night's sleep. A basic spell, these potions were made by schoolchildren in Hayle as a thank-you gift for the Summoned. The custom label on each bottle has your name handwritten and decorated by the kids. If you're known around the Castle, it might contain a drawing that represents your reputation - for example, a flower if you have a green thumb. They've been told a bit about the Summoned by officials and their teachers.

◎ A jade turtle that, when placed in a bowl or pool of water, is enchanted to swim around. A novel decorative piece that calls back to the giant sea turtle which came to aid you and your friends on Thorne's shores.

◎ A soothing galaxy orb that displays the starry night sky within. When placed in front of some light, it'll cast a pretty sparkle over your surroundings.

Surroundings

Located far north, Hayle is most famous for its beautiful crystalline architecture. The weather is warmer now that spring has arrived, but relatively cool with temperatures dipping at night. Vast mountains are in the distance for a breathtaking view.

Hayle bustles with vibrant energy and a diverse population. Where Castle Thorne closely follows the formal traditions of the nobility and traditional Academic Magic, Hayle is trendier with innovative spellwork, the newest designs in fashion, and a vast library of knowledge.

◎ Arcana Deck Exhibit
Expensive custom-crafted Arcana decks are under glass cases like fine jewels. One notable attraction is an exhibit displaying one-of-a-kind decks designed by famous artists or enchanted by renowned mages in Thorne's history. Some boast intricately painted designs and real gold, while others use precious gems embedded in the cards themselves. One preserved deck is carved entirely on pinewood.

◎ Boutiques
Boutiques sell tailored clothes and fine jewelry that include Arcana-inspired accessories. Luxury magical tools are also available such as gold scales for weighing potion ingredients. Some bookshops specialize in signed or antique copies. The contents are nothing special, but editions are considered collectibles. Though most aren't for sale except to the wealthiest individuals, you're free to look.

◎ Makeover & Performers
Street performers occupy every corner around Hayle: stories told through illusions, musician-less instruments, and juggling acts that incorporate impressive balls of colorful light. You can get your portrait drawn by an enchanted paintbrush or volunteer for one of the illusionists to give you a temporary "makeover." The makeover will grant you one or more features of your choosing that will last 24 hours: a new hair or eye color (including unnatural shades!), translucent illusory wings (they won't get in the way), or decorative nails.

Personal shopping and styling assistance is also offered by Lenore and Natasha Romanoff.

Banquet

The banquet takes place on the second evening, held in Hayle University's finest ballroom. Decorations are delicate and elegant. The chandelier above drips with crystals and gold.

Although you'll have an assigned seat to start with, there's no need to stay where you are. Guests are encouraged to mingle and wander around. Make friends, meet new people, and introduce yourselves!

◎ Food & Drink
A formal multi-course dinner will be served throughout the night. The wine flows freely and food is abundant. Thorne is known for its exquisite cuisine, and Hayle is no different. With the harsh winter over and farmlands slowly recovering from the attack last summer, the nation is no longer struggling as much with supplies. Dishes include stuffed duck, delicate fish, rare nutty cheeses, soup, and plenty of cakes and biscuits.

◎ Entertainment
Formal entertainment involves music, dancing, and magic shows. You're welcome to take the stage yourself, of course! If you're not good at what you do, the citizens won't boo you off the stage, but you'll feel an awkward atmosphere begin to build, and word might spread about your act. The nobility in Thorne has exacting standards and a penchant for gossip.

Musical performances include original compositions on the violin and piano by Lestat de Lioncourt and elvish songs by Elrond, while Lord John Grey will recite some poetry and music. Magical displays include illusory lights featuring the Arcana signs by Istredd, flashy divination magicks channeled through a tarot deck by Urianger, and a light-based display of intricate mandalas Stephen Strange - whose third eye may be glimpsed beneath his hood when he casts his Eldritch magic.

◎ Night's End
The banquet runs late into the night, though you can leave any time. A carriage will be waiting to take you back to your inn. You can stay for one last social breakfast in the morning before returning to Castle Thorne through the portal.

Free Cities (Libertas)

The first evening, the Prime Minister will gather guests by the mosaic sculpture in the Willow Memorial Park. Prime Minister Marlo expresses her gratitude for everyone's safe return and apologizes for the atrocities that occurred under her watch. The bravery and fortitude of those involved will be remembered. Fortunately, justice has found those responsible, and the city can begin to march forward. She acknowledges the formation of the Summoned Conclave, promising that her government will make sure nothing like this ever happens again to its people. The Summoned are, of course, people of the Free Cities regardless of where they came from.

Quilleth Kaur takes the stand afterward, addressing the tragedy that struck Libertas not long ago and personally thanking the Summoned for their help in rescuing survivors and rebuilding the city. This includes the construction of the park itself, led by two of the Free Cities' longest Summoned residents. She bids everyone to enjoy the festivities. They deserve to relax and feast after a harrowing experience.

Gifts

As a resident of the Free Cities, you'll receive a gift basket containing:

◎ Tickets to a special comeback show by one of Libertas' most famous acrobatic troupes - their first since the city's destruction. The envelope includes a letter which addresses you by name and thanks you for your help. If you've made an impression on the citizens of Libertas, the letter will mention noteworthy things you've contributed, such as volunteer efforts or donations. The tickets grant you the best seats in the house and a free drink during intermission. Performances are held throughout April and May, so you'll have plenty of time to attend.

◎ A kazoo, best used to annoy your friends or heckle anyone you find disagreeable, though beware that the people of Libertas won't hesitate to brawl on the street over insults.

◎ Luxurious bath crystal balls that fizzle and give the water a beautiful shimmer. Infused with medicinal properties, they'll alleviate aching muscles and lingering pains.

Surroundings

Located far south, Libertas is most famous for its subversive attitude and colorful architecture. With winter on the way out, the weather is warm but not scorching hot as it can be in the summer. Rare spring rains have caused flowers to bloom and sprout around the desert.

Libertas is diverse and lax in social norms. Where Cadens boasts the best research and technology, Libertas' focus is on advancements in free thought, art, and knowledge. Following the art walk not long ago and the long-term portal to Libertas, some of these attitudes have filtered into Cadens.

◎ Artist Alleys
The collapse of the city's buildings has caused street art to greatly flourish. Winding alleyways between homes and shops contain paintings, written poetry on the walls, and musical performances. Sculptor Axn Kade, famous for his pieces made of reclaimed metal and his activism for mining safety, has added a new sculpture to the city's streets. The plaque contains a dedication to the Summoned who helped clean up the mining equipment a few months ago, having used the scrap metal gathered during that process.

◎ Gambling Halls & Brews
Rejecting government oversight, Libertas is home to several gambling halls of all types. If you have the money, you're sure to find a spot to suit you. Beware of loan sharks and play at your own risk. Taverns around Libertas are rowdy. They often have an open floor for art performances, poetry readings, and philosophical debates. Always open to new ideas, many places in Libertas host tastings for brews created using innovative flavors and techniques.

◎ Market Square
Though not as large as Aquila's market, the Libertas market square is still a sprawling maze. Anyone with something to sell will have squeezed a table or a stall into the area. Enterprising merchants will give you a demonstration of some of their products, most powered by New Magic: a comb that changes your hair color upon use, eye drops that give your irises an enchanting colorful glow, and disposable crystal accessories that take on the illusion of precious jewels for a short period - invented to undermine the value of gems. Any changes to your appearance are temporary, lasting 24 hours.

Before the feast, simple dance lessons are available from Caitlyn Kiramman.

Garden Feast

The feast takes place on the second evening, held at the Willow Memorial Park. Glowing orbs of light have been hung from the willow trees while vases made by a local potter feature flowers from the park's wildflower meadows. More details about the park are available under Locales for Libertas.

Provided by Viktor (and Jayce Talis), the center of the garden contains a revolving armillary sphere modeled after the astronomy of Abraxas, casting an atmospheric starry light over the area.

To start with, you'll pull your table number from a hat to receive your "assigned" seat, but there's no need to stay there all night. Guests are encouraged to mingle and wander around. Make friends, meet new people, and introduce yourselves!

◎ Food & Drink
An eclectic array of dishes line a large table at the park's center. Help yourself to what you like in any order. No one will bother you if you start with dessert! Wine, ales, and hard liquors are as plentiful as the food. Dishes include grilled fish and pork, dips and spreads, puddings, sweetbread, cakes, and seasonal fruits common to the desert climate, such as figs and oranges.

◎ Entertainment
Formal entertainment involves music, dancing, and poetry. Artists have been invited to unveil new pieces or showcase old favorites. You're welcome to take the stage yourself, of course! Performers won't be judged on talent so much as passion. As long as you're creative and genuinely enjoy your craft, you'll have the support of the locals.

Jaskier will put on a lute performance, including a ballad of Spyndlveiss containing themes related to the recent disappearances. Diana Prince will recite a short portion of The Iliad, in both Ancient Greek and common. A "blade dancing" display using a painted stave by Obi-wan Kenobi will take place, as well. Finally, Hilda Goneril will draw and paint quick "fashion sketches" to commemorate everyone's style - available to both small groups and individuals.

◎ Night's End
The feast runs late into the night, though you can leave any time. A wagon is available to bring you back to your inn, but most locals prefer to walk, creating a drunken parade of people through the streets while singing cheerfully. You can stay for one last social breakfast in the morning before returning to Cadens through the portal.

Solvunn (Primary Settlement)

The first evening, the two remaining members of the Council, along with Isar Hart, address the gathered, apologizing for the sheep who strayed from their flock. They're especially disappointed with the heretical actions of a trusted community member, whose name they will no longer acknowledge. The gods have cast their judgment, and now the community can come together to heal. The Council promises the newly formed Summoned Conclave that they are vital members of the commune and that Solvunn is here to aid them in whatever they need.

Isar Hart reiterates that his position on the Council is temporary until the seat can be filled, though the Council does not give a date for when this might occur.

Gifts

As a member of the Solvunn Commune, you'll receive a gift bag containing:

◎ A clay mug, handmade by children in the settlements. Each mug is customized for the individual based on what the children have managed to learn about you, painted with what they believe to be your favorite colors, flowers, patterns, or animals. How accurate the kids are about you varies depending on your interactions with them, but they've tried their best. The bottom of the mug is signed by the child who made it for you. If you run into them afterward, they might ask if you like your mug.

◎ Thick and comfortable knitted socks made from the wool of Isar Hart's sheep farm.

◎ A few sachets of herbal teas to help you get a good night's rest and restore your energy. A small thank-you note accompanies the teas, signed by Lorelai and Esmond, who are grateful for the chance to return home.

Surroundings

The southernmost of the settlements, the Secondary Settlement boasts vast sprawling farmlands and a beautiful shoreline overlooking the ocean. Skies are sunny and clear throughout the gathering. Wildflowers bloom across the flat plains, orchards are starting to bear fruit, and fish are plentiful once more.

The Secondary Settlement is sparsely populated but maintains a tight-knit community. Where the Primary Settlement is a hub for schooling, craftspeople, and artisans, the Secondary Settlement is focused on agriculture and livestock: sheep, goats, horses, and fields of crops fill the area. Many families take pride in supplying the commune with produce and materials like wool, eggs, milk, and grains.

◎ Farms & Livestock
Farms are open with fences solely to keep out any predators or pests. You're free to visit the fields and orchards. Pick apricots and cherries, pet the sheep, play with the baby goats, and gather eggs for the evening's potluck. Isar Hart will be pleased to show you his prized black sheep, whose majestic horns are greatly admired. Smaller gardens filled with flowers and herbs are also available to explore. If you'd like to put together bouquets for the evening or make flower wreaths to decorate, you can help yourself. Finally, you can fish to your heart's content in the nearby pond. Bring your catch to dinner!

◎ Shrines
After recent events, shrines around the Secondary Settlement are full of offerings to appease the gods and seek guidance. These offerings consist of animal bones, harvested fruit, and wine. You can add to the shrines if you like or simply visit them. Many shrines hum with magical energy and all previous signs of corruption over the past few weeks have faded. You can ask for blessings of health, luck, or abundance for yourself or others.

◎ Neighborly Help
Although Solvunn doesn't place much emphasis on extravagance, the evening's affair is an important one. They'd like to look their best. Members of the commune are all around the settlement to give you a hand to get ready. You can have someone style or braid your hair with ribbons, color it with natural dyes, or lend you some clothes and accessories if you don't have any. You can help them in return, as well. They're also happy to trade items with you.

Louis de Pointe du Lac will temporarily alter your clothes or appearance for the night using illusory magic.

Potluck

The potluck takes place on the second evening, held outdoors in one of the Secondary Settlement's spring meadows. Decorations are rustic and simple, consisting of fresh flowers and candles.

Mud-clay sculptures and masks are available from Nanaue, though they are not very sturdy. Nero will hand out colorful brochures.

There are no assigned seats. Tables and chairs are placed tightly together, along with natural seating created by tree stumps and boulders. You're encouraged to mingle and wander around. Though a sober hush lies over the gathering, the atmosphere is hopeful. The people of Solvunn look forward to better days.

◎ Food & Drink
Solvunn's potluck feast consists of dishes and drinks brought by everyone in the commune, including members of the Council. There are hearty stews and soups, freshly baked bread, butter churned that very morning, and a variety of Solvunn's famous goat cheeses. You're invited to contribute anything you like! Simply add your dish or dessert to the table. The centerpiece of the potluck is a pig roast. Mead and ale flow freely.

Wanda Maximoff will bring sečenica, propeć (both cheese and egg savory baked goods), and traditional fruit pies of plums, cherries, sugar, almonds, and vanilla sugar. Claire Fraser will provide a unique loose-leaf herbal tea blend.

◎ Entertainment
The people of Solvunn will sing, dance, and make music together. On occasion, there are pauses for someone to take the spotlight, but overall no one's center stage for long. Instruments are passed around, and guests are encouraged to join in. Due to recent events, many songs are subdued, speaking of honoring the gods. Later in the night, stories are exchanged around the campfires. One particular folktale is told by Rowan March about Spyndlveiss, a figure who captures wayward sheep on their way between the settlements. From these lost sheep, he makes sheepskin suits for hungry wolves to wear.

Eddie Munson will hold a lively musical performance.

◎ Night's End
The potluck runs late into the night, though you can leave any time. Large tents are nearby for you to rest and spend the night. In the morning, you can join in on the communal breakfast before returning through the portal to the Primary Settlement.

---

Comments

i am sorry for the wall of text, jesper just poked the beehive

[blackeyedprince]

Kell doesn't shrink away from the hug. He needs the reassurance it provides. He even manages something of a weak smile. But then it all fades away, his shoulders stiffen, and he looks away, when Jesper mentions Rhy and his own promise to him.

"Was it very disappointing to find out it was me?"

It's not what Jesper has said, but it's what Kell hears. That's the other thing he also said. Hurt comes back at you at the worst possible moments. It skews your perception, twists memories, showing a cracked mirror to what's real.
And it's exactly this. Right here.

None of this would have happened if you knew. Nothing will come out this now that you do.

Kell doesn't say this out loud, but it's enough that he thinks it. That's his truth. He's always the second choice. Honestly, who would have chosen him over Rhy? He wouldn't have chosen himself. He loves Rhy. More than anything or anybody, more than his own life. Nobody understands what it really means when he says that. Nobody understands the totality of it. How it felt to see the endless parade of Rhy's lovers and have his own love and desire go unrequited. Know, that he'll never have it returned.
They're on much better terms now. Even with their bond broken. In that sense, getting summoned was the best thing that could have happened to him.

While this is all great, it doesn't help for his second problem. One that's unique to this place. Does not make him feel less of a leper. He had his first glimpses of it with Lila. That as much as he loves Rhy, he might like to get involved with other people. He knows, always knew, that Rhy has needs he just can't meet. He doesn't have a problem with him having those needs met outside of their ... entanglement. As long as he's not left out in the cold in the process.

He didn't expect himself to have such needs. That having them met could involve other people too. Here lies the problem, though. As soon as they know he's Rhy's brother, nobody would touch him with ten-feet pole. Especially, if they were involved with Rhy first, and many were. Out of courtesy for Rhy, out of Saints know what. Suddenly, Kell is out of bounds. That leaves him with very little choice. Of those, that he feels safe considering. He's not blind, he knows that some of the ladies and gentlemen that frequent Winking Cauldron don't come there for tea. That's part of his job. He's also not stupid nor desperate enough yet to try his chances with anyone who's not a Summoned themselves.

To have to cross-out Jesper off his list now hurts. More than he thought it might. Kell thought what they had was special. As much as he was conflicted about his own role in it, what he did, what he said, he was happy it happened. But apparently it wasn't special enough. Nothing really is when compared to Rhy.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Claude's silly suggestion is met with a click of her tongue as she squirms further out of their grasp. Even in her tipsy state she can tell exactly how well that particular plan is going to play out. The whine she gives him return however is said with a hint of forlorn sadness. ]

Claude, no one is going to pay any attention to my shoes at this hour. It's dark, everyone is drunk and my dress covers them.

[ Hilda barely makes it several steps when Sylvain is suddenly couching in front of her. His cheeky expression and wink throws her off and good thing too — there's another barely formed protest ready to spin from her lips and only because Sylvain's statement feels like something that borders on his own cheeky jab.

Her cheeks puff up into a pout that looks very reminiscent of a younger her. There's a beat before — ]

Fine.

[ There's no obvious deciding factor that wins her over in the end, but she slowly begins to shimmy her dress up so she can have better mobility in her hips. With more grace than someone would expect of someone who's had as much as she's had, she drapes herself over Sylvain's back. ]

Just don't jostle me too much. And you — [ She looks at Claude with a very serious expression and pointing a finger at him briefly. ] make sure that my shoes don't fall off or I'll never going to forgive you.

[blackeyedprince]

"Exactly! I'm glad you understand."

Kell flashes a grin at him. Istredd got himself a feral creature, but it comes with certain privileges. Like seeing the side of that him that, until very recently, he has only ever shown to one person.

Leading in a dance proves a bit of a problem, though. Kell might not be an expert dancer, he's definitely not graceful, but he's good. And used to dancing with people of his own height. So his moves need some adjusting now that he has to take into account that Istredd is a lot taller, and all that height comes with appropriately longer legs. But they manage. A little awkward, but they do.

"Only because I'm good at hiding my misery," he quips then laughs and adds. "No, really. I'm good. It's better than I thought it would be." Kell's mischievous grin tones down to a warm smile. "You look well too."

He spins them around another pair just in time to switch places. His attention might not be on dancing, but once he got a sense of the pattern, it's pretty automatic for him. One of the useless perks that come with being raised on a royal court.

"I saw you two dance."

Kell is not sure it's something he should mention. Despite the obviously public nature of it, it feels private. But he also can't help not to. He cannot ever not relate to longing for someone who you're sure will never have you. And the joy of being wrong about it. He might be projecting, but he suspects - or maybe just wishes - this is what just happened with that dance.

"You looked happy."

[itookashot]

Kell is someone who more than once has surprised Jesper with his dramatic response to something fairly innocuous from Jesper's point of view. It reminds him a little of Kaz, although Kaz simply suppresses it and slinks away until he can handle it. Or never, in the past, but he is getting better at it now.

"I'd like it if you didn't assume the worst or put words in my mouth, Kell. I'm really not that kind of a guy."

Not the kind to dismiss someone, not the kind to be indifferent. Jesper is a much more direct person, which is why he just gently rebukes him, rather than internalizing it. He does understand that sleeping with both brothers is probably not a good idea. It's clear from Kell's reaction they are not going to be able to share comfortably, which is fine. No one should be in a situation that makes them close up like this.

"Rhy's my friend. We had a few threesomes with friends we have in common. They were fun but we haven't really gone deeper." Mat, Wilhelm. The person in question being more of the middle of the triangle than Rhy and Jesper doing it only for one another. Jesper is direct, he isn't going to mince words here. He's saying it all like he's talking about the weather, a staple in his life, just how it is.

"Rhy won't really care about me preferring you over him, we're not serious enough for it to be a problem. But if you want to keep having sex with me, you're going to have to say so."

cw mention of past child abuse

[ushiri]

Lucifer probably keeps ending up in this position because he keeps acting almost human around humans.

Kahlil should know better, but when this is over he'll still blame the drink.

Keeping him in place should've been a mistake. With anyone else, maybe not, but he's well aware how strong Lucifer is at this point, how little he can do to escape without damaging them both very seriously. It's not that he needs blood to use his abilities, it's that his powers are inherently dangerous. The Gray Space is hostile to even those who know how to navigate it. Mistakes are too easy to make, and using his power in a panic will always end badly. Dayyid taught him that.

Dayyid also used to lock him in warded rooms with no light that he could not escape from. Even when he was young, he preferred the beatings.

So, he listens, because at first he doesn't really have a choice. Not without doing something incredibly dangerous and stupid, in front of a lot of dangerous people. He's not so intoxicated that he doesn't realize that. At this point, he's practically sober from the adrenaline.

He doesn't know much about Lucifer's story. Satan doesn't mean much to him. His religion doesn't have stories where god created his own enemy. All that is part of god is divine. Even the destroyer isn't evil. He just is.

Kahlil has no family left. He has no church, though the world is better for it. He has no home. He didn't have his memories for two years, and in that time his mind has fabricated a history that makes no sense. He had Alidas, and as soon as Kahlil became comfortable with that new life, it was pulled out from under him like a rug. Alidas gave him freedom, and he didn't have any idea what to do with it. He has Jack now, and for a while that was good, but now Jack has Sabine again and he's waiting for the rug to be pulled again.

Kahlil has: a name he's chosen for himself, and a mission he's chosen to believe.

That should be enough. That was enough for a decade. Why isn't it enough now?

He doesn't know whether to be more embarrassed for himself right now, or Lucifer. Probably himself. He doesn't know how Lucifer was abandoned in his past. He would ask the devil himself, but it's not really the time or place right now.

The roadside kitten analogy is - for whatever reason, what finally breaks the spell. That Lucifer says they have this in common. He doesn't immediately know what to do with that. He wants to laugh, but unlike Lucifer he's able to stop himself from doing that.

Instead, he chooses to do something that he hopes has Dayyid's soulless bones rolling in their unmarked grave.

"Thank you," he slowly says, finally meeting Lucifer's gaze after that long, stunned pause. Then -

"This is for trying to murder me." He telegraphs his movements very carefully, placing both hands on either side of Lucifer's head. They're of the same height, so when he tips the divine being's head down it doesn't take much to lean over and place a platonic kiss on his forehead. A peck. He pulls away with a hard, but not uncaring smile.

He hopes you feel the same way as he does whenever you touch the food on his plate.

Unless Lucifer plans to rip his face off his skull right then and there, he's going to make a hasty exit - on foot, to actually get some water and calm down, feeling for the second time in a month that he just cheated death.

[magicalarchaeologist]

Istredd suspects he is a nobleman from that explanation and he follows it up with his true title, confirming his correct guess. It probably is for the best the Summoned has more people who care comfortable in this setting. Too many of them are awkward like Istredd, they need more like Rhy, so he is all for this.

"Yes, too many of us were still adjusting from our ordeal. Healing took longer than we probably expected." Mental healing, that is no where close to happening yet, but most of the physical problems are wrapped up. Istredd came close to dying a few times, but he was still one of the healthier ones compared to the people who needed to literally have things cut out of them.

"I'm Istredd, I'm a mage, usually in our welcome parties I help people go to the Horizon or teach them new magic if they wish. I can do the same for you, if you are interested. Not here, but later." It is easier when everyone can simply meditate together at the party for the Horizon and go in to handle it. They will have to do what they can.

"I'm afraid you've come at a difficult time, Lord Grey, but the Thorne Summoned do try to look after their own."

[magicalarchaeologist]

Istredd prefers feral people, in truth. He is attracted or pulled in by people with strong emotions and complicated minds. He has often been at his most ease with others like him, and he's had many polite situations over the decades with his fellow researchers. Nice, tolerable connections. But it was never as strong as this.

It does take a few seconds to get into the flow but Istredd is good at following and after a few steps they seem to have it down. Before this, he'd gone to one ball and danced with Yennefer and no one else. Dancing with more than one person is new. But having multiple friends is extremely new, and a surrogate child? Would have been impossible of a thought before Kell.

In truth, he and Lucifer are not being good at pretending. People have already assumed they were together, but for someone observant, the differences are all there in plain sight. Dancing probably made it very clear, especially with the way Istredd looks at him now that he's allowed. Besotted, pure and simple. Istredd did long unrequited for quite some time.

He smiles, shyly almost, and automatically his eyes search out Lucifer, before looking back at Kell. "I am happy. And lucky. I'm not used to getting what I want." Istredd stopped wanting anything a long time ago. He got burned and shut down any real option from then on, never letting anyone get close for around sixty years. Then he fell hard and fast in a new world.

"It's very new. I know people thought it wasn't, but it is." There have been rumors about them from the start.

[theidlemaiden]

As in acts that would fit well in the Old Hall?

[ Mulling it over she gives a thoughtful hum, recalling the acts that she had seen earlier and from the day prior. ]

I'm not sure if this is what you were thinking, but I did see an interesting story teller yesterday. While they were telling stories they were able to conjure moving images like you were watching some kind of film!

[ Hilda's eyes light up in the retelling but then she pauses, letting out a bit of a sheepish laugh. ] Not that I know anything about films. A friend in Thorne explained what films and movies were to me once and that's what it felt like.

[catholica]

Icebreakers.

( god, he remembers those. he thinks he might have missed out on the worst of it because he'd ended up in an orphanage so young but he still remembers those. )

One of those 'tell the other person one interesting fact about yourself' and all that? I used to make up things.

lestat de lioncourt · iwtv (amc) · thorne

[malicieux]

Top levels below, all OTA. Feel free to slap a wildcard option here as well~

[takeatrip]

Yeah?

[Jayden had occasionally done the same in making up answers, usually because the questions were either stupid things he hadn't had an opinion on or he thought the answer was boring, but hadn't made it a habit. That it's the first thing Matt says is interesting.]

D'you remember any of them? Your made up answers, I mean.

[Not the questions, but those too.]

execution · ota

[malicieux]

{ Lestat isn't the sort to pass up a public execution. After all, back in his day, such things were practically social events, and it's hardly as if the macabre bothers him. It's not so bad that it's another reason to get out of Castle Thorne.

For the most part, he sticks to the edges of the crowd. Apart from scanning the congregation of other Summoned briefly at the start, his too-bright eyes stay fixed on the ritual. The spectacle is more than he'd anticipated. He doesn't dislike it. There's something delightfully beautiful in the horror of it all, more of a dramatic presentation than the execution he'd envisioned. And while he'd ignored the invitation to leave an offering at his arcana earlier, Lestat can't resist the opportunity to play his own part in the theatrics. He paints the symbol of judgment on a bone and adds it to the flaming altar. }

How very Grand Guignol of them.

{ He says the musing out loud, to whoever may be close enough to here, accompanied by an amused sort of smile.

Following the ceremony, Lestat is one of the last to leave, choosing to linger as he watches the remains turn to ash. There's a vague expression of pensiveness on his face as he does, if anyone cares to notice, otherwise it's easy enough to assume he's simply seeing the thing to the end. }

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard nearly points out that he hadn't given specific instructions, but that was rather the point. welcome to your job interview hilda He's quiet. Listening.]

That sounds quite remarkable, actually, and something that would be able to make good use of the space. I missed that, unfortunately, as I was wrangling some things with the park. Anything else? I've caught a few of the plays today, with some mixed feelings involved about the topics.

[ushiri]

The softness of her tone has him giving her a funny look for a second. He doesn't reply to that, though. He does know.

He feels restless, wishing he had something in his hands. Paper, tissue, leaves. Something to tear apart. An anxious tic. There's no floral displays here, though, and his outer pockets are only filled with lint. His sheathes his hands in them.

"He needs someone to watch over him here. He's still a magnet for... everything."

Everything and everything dangerous. She told him something he already knows, so there's this now back.

Jack said she was his protector when she was alive, but to Kahlil she just looks like a young woman. A redhead, which the Singularity seems so fond of in its Summoned. He expects there's more to her, like there is to Jack.

hayle · boutiques · ota

[malicieux]

{ This is much more like it. Lestat's always loved a good party, a reason to get dressed up and mingle and pass the evening with some fun. And Hayle has been in his sights since he arrived here. All in all, the entire situation is as ideal as it can be for him. He wastes no time in wandering the city, to start committing it to memory and seeing what it has to offer.

First and foremost, Lestat can, of course, be found procuring himself a new outfit for the occasion. He feels a pull to find inspiration in the clothing of the late eighteenth or early nineteenth centuries, an antiquated style to most that he thinks suits Thorne with the opulent fashions that came from French courts of the time. A well-cut coat with a high collar and embroidery down the front, perhaps, or maybe something that speaks of England's regency period with a shorter cut at the waist. He takes the time to feel the fabric of each garment between his fingers. Quality, of course, is everything.

With an outfit secured, Lestat's wanderings of Hayle take him into one of the shops selling jewelry. He doesn't mind an adornment himself, having more than eyed up a fine ring that displays his own arcana of Judgement, but he's more interested in seeking out something for another. His fingers light upon a pendant displaying The Lovers, gold detailing set against sleek black, mounted on a fine golden chain. He stands close by it to keep another from claiming it as he waits to the shopkeep to finish with another customer. }

hayle · banquet · ota

[malicieux]

{ Lestat seems right at home in this environment. From the elegance of the room to the finely embellished coat and waistcoat he wears (paired with well tailored pants and boots), he has a comfortable ease about him that may fool some into believing this isn't his first time here.

While dinner is mostly lost on him, he's happy to chat with those seated beside or around him. He sips at the wine provided and politely declines much of the food in favour of continuing the conversation in his effortlessly charming way.

Following the banquet, at some point in the night Lestat contributes his musical talents to the party, doing his part to allow the regular musicians a break. His performance leans more towards the violin, including a violin rendition of this song he composed for a violinist long ago. He finishes his performance with some pieces on the piano to encourage dancing among the attendees. It's important, of course, to end on a lighter note in regards to the music, leaving those who are listening in a pleasant mood. With a modest enough bow, he takes his leave of the stage, seeking out another glass of wine and taking in whichever act follows.

Throughout the night, he's in a cheerful enough mood to share a dance with anyone who may want to, or to find himself in various conversations around the ballroom. The lateness doesn't seem to bother him much. As party-goers begin to depart, much like he did at the execution a few days prior, Lestat lingers until the very end, spirits as amiable as they'd been at the start of the evening. }

[iustise]

"Ah, I am the younger son of a Duke, so it is a courtesy title," he explains, gently correcting the other man. "My elder brother is Earl of Melton, Duke of Pardloe, to be addressed as Lord Melton, or Pardloe." He gestures at himself, a jaunty, somewhat self-deprecatory (he does realize how this all sounds) flourish. "I find myself, by comparison, merely Lord John."

"Although," he continues, with the twist of a smile, "I don't suppose that any of that matters, now that I find myself here. I am finding myself remarkably out of my depths, all things considered. Magic... Was not a thing that crossed my mind often, back home. And now I find myself faced with it almost every other step."

He inclines his head toward the other man. "You say that you are a mage, though. I suppose that it was different, in your own experience."

[catholica]

Good question.

( he falls quiet while he tries to dig into his memories to find something that he'd said once upon a time. )

Oh, I uh, once told someone that I was a twin and sometimes we switched place so one day, I could be me, Matt, and the next, it might be my twin, Pat.

( not very creative but he'd laughed. )

SURROUNDINGS - FEESH

[aquaveiled]

[ Himeka has frequently ran into children out and about the various ponds and streams that lead towards the greater lake to the northwest of the Primary Settlement. Some fish for fun, others are fishing with a true purpose of catching lunch or dinner, but most? Most are...

...terribly inefficient. She can't blame them, she supposes, when they have to fish from the top down all the time. It's much harder to see your prey through the water's surface.

She doesn't say that Wanda fiddling with the poor excuse for a fishing pole is cute, but she thinks it. Wanda can probably hear it anyway.

Himeka doesn't need to be invited, she strides right on over with a grin. ]

If you wanted to learn to fish, you could have asked at any time, you know.

[nadine_he_loves]

We should be pretty well matched, in that case.

[Nadine laughs a little and does her best to adjust her fanciful dress so the multitude of feathery bits hanging from the 'sleeves' are as out of the way as possible. She hadn't had dancing in mind when she picked her outfit.]

Honestly, I think we can call it a success if neither of us steps on or trips over my skirts.

[Which also boast a further multitude of loose feathery bits. At least she's wearing comfortable shoes.]

shopping~

[malicieux]

Much like Lenore, Lestat feels more like himself here in Hayle than he has since arriving. He was already enamoured by the idea of the city long before ever coming here, but now he knows for sure he'd like to find a way to stay here when the opportunity presents itself. And also like Lenore, the appeal of finally seeking out a better wardrobe couldn't be resisted.

He's examining the golden embroidery on a coat when he sees her, recognizing her and their amusing attempt at speaking French to each other while eavesdropping in halls.

"Bonjour," he calls out to her, an amused smile pulling at his lips. "I don't think I'm surprised to see you here of all places."

[vecna]

[So he knows Wanda? Somehow, this doesn't surprise him; if she was the sort to approach him with jars full of spiders one day, out of the blue, of course she might endear herself to this shark-man, too, in her own way.

He just smiles. Yes, he makes good brain pictures.

And then Nanaue decides to return the favor, an image blooming in Henry's mind. A rudimentary drawing of a sun. With a happy face.]

...That's very good, too.

[Strangely, maybe insanely, he feels like an orderly in the lab again, dealing with a child. His tone shifts into that light, friendly way he had practiced for so, so many years.]

What's your name?

[preferscuffs]

[This is, quite possibly, the only conversation to be had about her brother and his sucking capabilities that Caitlyn can handle.]

He does make a good sun. Perhaps not quite a black hole, I've always thought those to be fairly selfish in design. Always taking, never giving, at least not in any way we can currently see or measure.

[Which isn't Jayce in the slightest. But at the same time, she certainly understands Viktor's feelings on the matter when it comes to Jayce. Overpowering and sometimes far too bright, but it's a sun she's grown up in so Caitlyn doesn't really mind it. A large, but gentle sun as it were.

Caitlyn waits, curious what the sphere is going to do. She's a rough idea, but ideas and reality are often, in her experience, very different things. And she's right, the rings alone are quite interesting, but the blue light makes it absolutely captivating.]

Oh Viktor, it's beautiful! [Caitlyn's delight in the moment obvious on her face as she takes the scene in with a happy smile.] It's even better than I'd imagined it to be.

[godshattering]

That's the whole point of carrying you where they can be seen!

[ This is said with Great Seriousness, like this is a perfectly logical plan. It's absolutely not simply fueled by alcohol making things seem like a better idea than they actually are. He's ready to defend this and spiral it out into something more convincing than deserving of the whine she gives he's well familiar with from many times of wheedling (from one or the other of them), but Sylvain's got a much better solution even if Claude had scoffed at the idea of them ending up in the gutter.

Of course, he's not going to admit this aloud, and not when he's already pressing a hand to his chest like he's affronted by the very implication he'd allow anything to happen to the shoes in question. ]

I wouldn't dream of it. But in that case...

[ It's easy enough to step forward and with his usual deftness not hampered by a little too much to drink, slip one heel and then the other off Hilda's feet now that she's aloft. And then hold them up in his hands with an innocent look none of them are going to buy, but that's not going to stop Claude from entertaining himself by offering it anyway. ]

I'd better just hold onto these for safekeeping, don't you think?

[ That's a rhetorical question, because he's also just going to keep walking in the direction of the inn with the heels balanced in his palms held aloft before him like they're sacred objects for good measure. ]

[funbreaker]

[ Thancred remains close to Urianger during the execution itself, not deriving any sort of joy from the grim display. Even though the mist that's rolled in does shield them from when Josselyn's mangled corpse is picked clean, the way that her body had contorted within the sheep's skin is not an image that Thancred will soon forget.

She'd insisted the Old Gods were no longer listening, but this seems to be proof very much to the contrary.

With no interest in participating in any of the ritual himself, Thancred plans to leave before long. To think that a year ago this place had been used for a peace summit. Granted, this had been members of Solvunn delivering punishment to their own, and yet he can't help but wonder if some of the people in attendance here are simply covering up their own misdeeds.

He doesn't know enough about Solvunn's politics to be certain.

Most disperse quickly, which means that he doesn't get to question anyone about the specifics of what just happened, or the nature of that vulture god. He heaves out a sigh, ready to reconvene with Urianger and portal back to the castle.

But he happens to notice one man lingering for longer than the rest. He recognizes him, having seen him in passing at the castle. When he speaks up, Thancred glances over, raising an eyebrow. The accent of that title sounds practically Ishgardian. ]

Grand Guignol? You'll have to enlighten me.

[ Though... does he truly want to know? ]