MINI-EVENT: CODA - IC EVENT LOG

[abraxasmods]

Mini-Event - Coda

OOC event plotting

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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.

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Comments

[theidlemaiden]

A menace? Sylvain, you know I'm a delicate flower.

[ Hilda's voice begins to waver that much more, inching ever so closely towards the precipice of tears. ]

I'm just trying to make sure that Claude doesn't go hungry. You'd think that you'd be putting more effort into that all things considered. [ At the last bit she gives the crook of Sylvain's neck a gentle prod. ] If he wastes away how are you two going to do fun things together anymore?

[ 'Fun things' of course is just a thinly veiled allusion to them sleeping with one another but she's sure she doesn't have to explain that. Thankfully their tag team whinging seems to have worked. Hilda points towards the cafe Claude had pointed out moments before. Suddenly tears seem like a thing of the past as she gives Claude a triumphant grin, quickly jerking her head towards the brightly lit building as if telling Claude to start moving before Sylvain changed his mind. And to Sylvain - ]

There. That one. We can get something to go and then eat it on the way back to the inn. Onwards, valiant stead!

[supersoldier]

[Calling his bluff is the right thing to do. Sephiroth certainly knows how to eat, even if his line delivery leaves room for doubt.]

...All right. If that's the length you want to go to.

[To avoid unnecessary attention. But Sephiroth doesn't mind too much; he's not done more than just stand and observe the festivities around him. He's due for one person dragging him into a dance, and if it's for a "good cause", then so be it.

He holds out a hand as an offer for them to get started.]

And if he approaches, I'll be more blunt with him.

[nadine_he_loves]

"That has to be kind of comforting, to just know. I think it is, anyway." To simply be aware, with certainty, of what one's future holds. For better or worse. Nadine had certainly found comfort in it - for a time. But he's right, there's something very satisfying in achieving what one feels they should be doing.

Then she brightens, smiling eagerly.

"Actually...that's something of a side-project of mine. Not all the Summoned are human, and this world's medicine and medical practices are human-centric. There's a couple of people who've let me take some notes and test some things on them, to try and develop medicines for them. And learn their anatomy and biology so I can operate if ever needed, and set bones properly. Or whatever the equivalent of a bone is, depending on the patient."

Even here, at a fancy celebration, dancing with a charming and handsome man, Nadine perks up most when talking about work.

[itookashot]

[ Jesper also has no mercy in his heart for any of them. This won't be the end of it for him either. Give him another few months and he'll start wondering if some 'accidents' couldn't start happening for the prisoners. They can stretch it out over awhile. His grudges can last. He wouldn't do anything like what happened to Josselyn. The only mercy he'd give is a quick one. No pain. Just one less terrible person walking the planet. ]

The Fjerdans are true believers too, the people who want to murder all of my kind. They brainwash young and it seems like Solvunn's not that different. Not with the murder, though. Just with the group think.

[ Listen, he wants to acknowledge that Wanda seems to like them, and he doesn't think all people there are evil. Inej liked it there too. It's not really about whether they're bad or good, more that being raised in this sort of heavily religious sector seems like it'd be ripe for cults. That's why he notes he doesn't think they're killers or anything, not like the Fjerdans.

Jesper thinks there probably are some Fjerdans who aren't the worst, somewhere. No place can be all one thing. Matthias did manage to see the light so probably a whole lot of them could, given the time. Jesper's just not one to have a lot of patience about that. At least not for people who think his kind are monsters who deserve genocide. ]

There's no way they got everyone, right? It seems like it would be impossible on a plan this big. They weren't all down in that pit.

[ If they were running around picking up people to bring over, they had to have sects out and about, he'd assume. He is thinking like a gang member would; they're never all in one place. It's rare when they are in mass numbers. It's asking to be wiped out all at once. ]

Think we should learn some of this god magic though? Since that seems to be an advantage.

[nadine_he_loves]

I guess that's true...Talk about being careful what you wish for.

[Still. It just seems like so very much. And makes Nadine all the more wary of the gods of Solvunn. Anything that delights in this sort of sacrifice, in this sort of raw and primal brutality, anything implied to demand this...She doesn't trust it, can't help but look askance and prefer to be elsewhere.

She imagines it's a sentiment that Julie would understand, regardless of whatever her own feelings may be.]

Makes me glad Cadens doesn't seem too big on religion.

[Now she looks away, eyes sliding to the side and down, having seen more than enough. It's done, at least. Not exactly justice equal to the suffering caused, in her opinion, but it's something. A closure, if nothing else.]

[unwings]

[ and now castiel's certain all this cryptic doomed future crap is just meant to fuck with him, and the angel rolls his eyes. Lucifer's clearly been left out of the loop just as well, and with his outburst, Cas is sure nothing productive will come out of the rest of this conversation. He turns back to Jo, oblivious to her offense at being sidelined, and jerks his head toward the exit from the execution grounds. ]

Perhaps we should move on.

[ He's interrupted by inhuman, horrific screams from the captive being folded into a sheep's skin, Cas snapping abruptly back to the noise with alarm, brow arched high. What the unholy fuck is going on right now? He wrinkles his nose down at the massacre occurring below. ]

Seems excessive.

[unwings]

That's wonderful.

[ castiel watches her with the warm smile of a friend happy to see the other flourishing and thriving. it isn't silly at all to have a joy that brings so much youthful glee into one's life. childish isn't always an insult.

such a potent and overwhelming emotion, he wonders at the mechanics of it. is it pheromones and natural instinct alone, or some other spark that lets each know they've found a romantic companion over anything else? ]

What is it, do you think, that elevates Jaskier to a lover rather than a close friend for you?

[ besides the sex. here, he's considering the sex a symptom of, rather than a cause, unless that's an inherent misunderstand on his part. ]

[godshattering]

[ Hilda's wavering voice and pleas - something he's familiar with from listening to them many times - nearly get a grin from him now even after he'd narrowly resisted one at Sylvain's complaint that they're a menace as a set. Of course they are; it's a well-honed act they've used to level many an opponent. And while Sylvain isn't exactly in opponent territory, being a small obstacle to their plans certainly counts, doesn't it?

He's about to chime in just to double down on the 'shaming' of a lack of effort, but what Hilda says causes his expression to freeze on his face momentarily. The insinuation is loud and clear and there's something beneath it that feels important though alcohol pushes it out of his grasp. Or maybe he's reading too much into it also thanks to the alcohol, especially when Hilda grins his way and it's easy to flash the same grin right back.

And next, one clap of a hand on Sylvain's shoulder with a solemn look. Or what should be one if it wasn't for the grin threatening to take over it again, and then he steps back to lead the way to the cafe. ]

C'mon, valiant steed. Time to ferry our fair lady to our next destination. I'm sure we can find something for you in there too without having to go back to the feast, but I wouldn't say no if you'd rather show off your platter smuggling skills.

[earthborn]

You don't know that. [It's both such an uncharacteristically silly, frivolous thing, and at the same time... just so Garrus. The same man who'd spend thousands of man-hours on firing-solution calibrations really would put this much meticulous attention into date-night plans. Into making her smile.] Could be one of these poor summoned bastards is a world-class dancer.

[It's working, too; she can't seem to stop. This is going to be a disaster, inevitably, he's actually leading her out onto the dance floor, and Shepard still can't help but want to laugh about it.]

[blackeyedprince]

Istredd does have his own gremlin now. So of course that at some point Kell just flashes a wicked grin at him. He doesn't look like Lucifer when he does it. He most definitely doesn't. No similarities, no. Impossible.

"Doesn't it mean you can make it feel whatever you want?"

Kell has Rhy, he can share some expertise... then his whole mind screeches to a halt. Protective is something Kell got just a little used to by now. As in it doesn't send him into a fit of shocked euphoria all the time.

proud

It's progress that he doesn't question it. Kell learned to trust Istredd when he says things. Unbelievable as they might be. So there's no dramatic display of shock. Just a wave of warmth spreading out of his heart, like a little sun lighting up in his chest.

Then he remembers...and Kell's mood tanks. Yeah, quite the thing to be proud of. His whole worth was always tied to how good his magic was. He had no need to worry before. Now, when he really wants Istredd to be proud of him. Just like he said he does. Now, that he's really invested. Now, Kell found something that was able to stop him.

"Just because you don't know how I'm failing at my alchemy studies. There's not much to be proud about there."

[thearchangel]

Maybe this is the latest craze from our galaxy. They don't have to know that.

[She's smiling, and it's catching. It's going to peel the scars open on his face if he smiles any harder. But damn. It's not the location he'd planned, or hoped for - he'd been thinking about somewhere with more neon lights, actually. But somehow, in the face of the horrors of Fungi Dungeon, this is almost better.]

[He puts one hand at her hip. The other sliding into her hand.]

Permission to take the lead, Commander?

[unwings]

Cas listens to the soft rustle of fabric and metallic clang of daggers, swords and belt buckles hitting the ground, then the chair. She's accepted the invitation for care a little for herself, and Castiel's happy for it, some extra pocket of tension he didn't realize he'd been holding smoothing out.

He keeps his eyes closed as she sinks in, understanding and anticipating Jo's desire for modesty, even if it doesn't fully compute with him after the hot springs encounter. However, the tub is a tight space, and as she slips into the water, her naked leg runs against Castiel's bare thigh.

His currently mostly human body reacts involuntarily, an excited prickling spreading across his skin that Cas swallows back against. Human physiology takes so much out of his immediate control, and while it'd been fascinating back home, it's becoming awkward and inconvenient here.

"Thank you." Cas clears his throat, shifts away to break the contact between them, and finally blinks over to her when she's fully settled. "This remedy shouldn't be wasted on me alone when our supply is limited. How do you feel?"

[thedevilwhorose]

Wow, rude. See what happens if he just leaves you and goes his own way.

(He doesn't want to see that.)

"A charade, the whole thing. Keeping up ugly appearances, continuing to trot us about like set pieces." With some useless commendation of thanks. Thanks for all your suffering, here's a party.

Don't get him wrong, he's going to have a good time. He's going to take the advantage given.

But all this? Fancy party and all?

It's just a mockery and really they should've all stayed back in the castle, but there was something tempting here for all of them, and in general the Thorne Summoned simple took whatever opportunity to Get Out that they could.

"But if you need another one of those 'gift bag' potions, you can have mine."

[magicalarchaeologist]

Plenty of similarities, actually. Istredd is drawn to people unlike him. His surrogate son is unsurprisingly on that list, although he thinks they have some qualities in common too. He's told Lucifer before that shared qualities are not the same thing as being identical. That has more to do with his issues surrounding Yennefer though.

"I suppose you are right. Whatever I'm feeling is just natural. Maybe having nothing to compare it to is a good thing." The comparison to Stregobor is flimsy at best. He doesn't want to mirror it here. It means Istredd has no real expectations of this. He's dealing with it as he goes.

His eyebrows furrow at that. "So? You practice until you get better or you choose a different discipline. Not everyone is good at everything. Magic takes patience." Istredd is very experienced in magical training, he went through a ruthless experience. This is very logical to him. They had to learn enough of all magic to get by, but there is a reason some found a leaning like he did.

"Look at how compassionate and supportive you've been to me tonight. How you protected the others as best as you could while escaping. Magic is something you can do, it's not who you are."

[nadine_he_loves]

Oh....uh....

[This is a surprising direction of conversation, and one Nadine's not entirely sure how to navigate. She and Jaskier have a bit of an unconventional story as is, and she's more comfortable talking about these things in the general and abstract.

Also, Castiel is an angel. And while he doesn't exactly match up to what she'd been taught about angels, he is still quite literally a divine being. Is it okay to talk about sex and romance with an angel? He brought it up....]

Well, Jaskier and I have kind of a weird history. When we first met, I was in...a not great place. Just...going through a lot, and I still kept to myself a lot back then. I was still living in Thorne. I really wasn't looking for a relationship or romance.

[To put it mildly. Her husband had just disappeared.]

We met at a party, we had fun together that night, but it was a party. I was drinking and stuff to try and have a good time, so was he, I didn't really think anything of it. It was a Horizon party, we had fun hanging out, but that was about all I'd thought I wanted. I didn't even expect to see him again. But he showed up in my domain. More than once. He...serenaded me on my front lawn.

[She laughs a little, remembering it. It had been winter, and snowy, and he'd stood out there with his instrument and his little moogle. It had been absurd and delightful and embarrassing and flattering.]

And I guess I thought...if this guy is this invested, even when I've pretty much given him a grocery list of reasons why he ought to focus on much better options... maybe it was worth taking a chance.

[It's a heavily edited version of how things actually happened, but it's personal. And it's all true. Jaskier had been very persistent, despite the things he knew about her. It had felt nice, under all the mess and confusion her life had been at the time.]

Turns out it was.

[wiedzminka]

In all honesty, Ciri thinks it's a bit much too. What happened to the old reliable classics such as a hanging or burning at the stake?

But also, just as frankly, Ciri doesn't actually give a shit about Josselyn's suffering.

"Well. She wanted to get closer to her gods," Ciri remarks with unflappable dryness, and takes another swig from her flask.

[monomachy]

She doesn't think he's wrong; many of the Amazons who had fought in the War of the Gods, and the war against Steppenwolf rarely spoke about it, looking haunted when the subjects came up. Should someone, herself even, have tried to get them to talk about their experiences? She doesn't know, and right now, she can't try. But it's something for her to ponder.

A small smile finds her face, and she dips her head towards him. "I hope you are able to help those who need it." Belatedly, she realizes she hasn't asked his name, and introduces herself: "I am Diana."

[unwings]

[ Cas listens to the story, glancing between Nadine and Jaskier on the stage and trying to imagine the scene. It isn’t difficult, Jaskier’s personable and assertive, it isn’t a stretch to believe he’d show up uninvited for a whimsical serenading. He is a troubadour.

Was it persistence alone, or charm? Perhaps the key lies in what it is that keeps the emotion going after the song ends. ]

I see. [ sort of. Not really. A little? ] So it was his commitment to romantic overtures that solidified your interest in him as a suitable partner?

[ spoken in the tone of one who is taking detailed mental notes. He’s trying to learn (he’s always trying to learn) how these relationships evolve, what the spark that starts them is, how one knows when it’s gone beyond a close, platonic bond.

The beginning of Nadine’s story sounds innocent enough, it could’ve been the start of any friendship, so it was Jaskier who took the step to suggest a more romantic relationship. The shift was in the dramatic act of wooing by Jaskier, and Nadine’s eventual acceptance. Sure, makes sense. Good job, Jaskier. ]

Somewhat similar to Birds-of-Paradise performing intricate mating dances for females to display vitality and virility.

[ Cas does not at all mean to offend, sometimes words just come out of his face and he’s oblivious to how inappropriate they may be for the situation. He nods resolutely, confident he gets it now (he does not get it). ]

[monomachy]

Diana waits, patient, her breath caught in her chest. She thinks, maybe, she should hesitate, too. It was not so long ago (to her, anyway) that the last person she had been with had died. Her heart still aches for Steve Trevor's death, but even if the time since then feels short to her, so much has happened. She doesn't think that wound on her heart will ever disappear, but she does think it has begun to scar. Not quite whole, but healing. And after what she had seen at the execution, she aches for some kind of connection, something to let her know that she is not the only one who suffered a sort of hurt from it. To find a way to soothe that hurt.

Altaïr stands and kisses her, and she realizes how much she has craved a touch outside the battlefield or a simple, friendly gesture. So the kiss is welcome, and she feels starved for it. Diana meets his kiss, hand moving from his face to the back of his head without a second thought. She shifts forward, pressing into him, not wanting to leave any room to question whether or not she is ready to reciprocate his intent.

[theidlemaiden]

[ The war, the feelings, the mismatched timelines - all of this is sounding far too familiar to a scenario Hilda is familiar with. ]

I don't know six months sounds like a lot during a war. You could lose a war in six months. Or win it.

[ She turns gracefully, picking up Garrus' hand in hers as they gracefully slip by another couple one of which had been spun a little too enthusiastically. It's clear from her voice that she's curious about the details, but less for the gossip and more because she's curious to compare notes. ]

What happened with the two of you? [ There's a bashful smile inserted immediately after that. ] Only if you don't mind me asking, of course.

[wiedzminka]

Wow. I almost didn't recognize you without the layer of grime.

[ Ciri comes up behind her with a grin and two glasses of wine, one of which she hands to Caitlyn. It won't do to have her at a party without a drink. Luckily, Ciri's here to provide. ]

I love your shoes.

[ Ciri herself has cleaned up nicely, with her hair up and decorated with Julie's help. ]

Heard you gave dance lessons.

[nadine_he_loves]

Um....

[Nadine pauses, unsure of where to start. But she's starting to realize this isn't casual conversation. She thinks some pieces are fitting into place. Castiel is an angel. And now he's living essentially a human life, surrounded by humans and the human-adjacent. A curiosity is natural, she can't imagine angels sit around thinking about all the various details of mortal social interaction.]

Sort of. It was that it was him being persistent. I'd probably have found it really annoying from someone else. And he was really earnest about it. I could tell it wasn't just about...a guy really wanting to get a chance with a pretty girl. He wanted to know me, he was interested in who I was and what I think.

[That alone had been enough, for her, to inspire a returned interest. Of a sort. In the beginning, she'd been sad and felt cheated and alone and he was there. And it had been casual. Before long, though...

There'd been nothing casual about it. Nadine has no false delusions of some traditional relationship trajectory - there's nothing traditional about their relationship - but she knows they're in it for the long haul. They've said as much, in their own way.]

Romance and all of that is a really complicated thing. What attracts one person might not attract another. The overtures that appeal to one person might not appeal to another. Plenty of women would just be uncomfortable with some guy they barely know showing up at their door to sing to them. The things I'm drawn to in Jaskier I'm drawn to because of who I am, and the culmination of all my own experiences and ideas. For me....he's perfect.

[earthborn]

Ha. Ha. You think that'll actually pass muster?

[It's a little less funny now that they come down to it. She's faced down Reapers, Geth Primes, cultists, and monsters of all types... But this part is a little intimidating. She knew what to do with all those other things, of course; kill it, with gunfire or literal fire, it hardly mattered which. It's been a long damn time since someone last asked her for a dance.

But Garrus is asking, and no matter what for, there really is only one answer in her.]

Permission granted, Mr Vakarian.

[Let's do this.]

[restingstitchface]

Crane angles his head towards Diana. His new companion, a new friend. He remembers attending societal functions: benefits for the university and his hospital. Always a reluctant guest. Always a disappearing ghost. Always putting in an appearance.

Always getting up from the table and going on his way. He smiles politely and murmurs awkwardly. Benefits. Work celebrations. He had little tolerance for his colleagues. No enjoyment of their company. Is there any difference here?

The intimacy of friendship draws his hands beneath the table.

"Dr. Jonathan Crane."

Being on a first name basis makes his skin crawl. It leads to people placing expectations on his company, if nothing else.

[unwings]

[ she would be surprised at how often this angel sits around thinking about all the various details of mortal social interaction. but he is most definitely an exception to the rule, and it wasn't until mortal social interactions became the majority of his life that Cas became so fascinated by them. he knows what his brethren would think, what Lucifer and Michael would, but after spending that handful of months human, having a small taste of it, it's left something longing, something anxious in the pit of him.

crowley knows it too. neither will admit to it, but it's there, this shiny thing, this wealth of feeling and purpose and visceral, delightful entanglement with this physical world, but it simply isn't for him.

sappy angel that he is, he wears a dopey, soft smile, listening to nadine explain how jaskier was special, perfect for her. it wasn't the serenading and persistence, but an alignment of personality and experience like a magnetic pull from the start that drew them inevitably together. it's sweet, it's curious, it's simple in a way that's still just slightly beyond his understanding, like a word on the tip of his tongue. ]

What did it feel like, when you knew he was perfect for you? When did you realize it?

[ soulmates aren't really a thing, as far as castiel knows. he could ask a cupid, but why the hell would he? cas can already guess the hallmark card monologuing he'd get, and he's just not up for that level of hugging. but for two people to have grown and hurt and changed in just the right ways that they line up like puzzle pieces seems at once by design, and chaotic chance. ]