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

[funbreaker]

[ Uneasy as this stranger might make him, Thancred is aware that he's one of his fellow Summoned within Thorne and that it therefore behooves him to learn more about him. Especially if he might be the sort to approve of the horrors they were just made to witness. ]

A long time? And why is that?

[ He glances back toward Lestat, then holds his hand out to him after a brief pause. ]

Thancred Waters, by the way.

[vixening]

Something amused flits across the girl's face and the confusion in Yennefer's expression heightens. They are still in these early stages of feeling each other out, and Yennefer has not yet decided whether she likes the girl or not. It has nothing to do with whether or not they'd met before now, but more so how this conversation will go, something Yennefer is still trying to decide.

It is, however, the mention of Jack that has her giving a small snort. "The same sphere...then you two know each other?" That has brought some amusement into Yennefer's tone; which may or may not make sense to Sabine, depending on her level of knowing Jack Townsend. And depending on if she finds him as infuriating as she does entertaining, which is apparently where Yennefer has found herself after their lessons.

"Don't tell me you have the same penchant for..." Yennefer gestures vaguely, trying to find the best way to describe Jack's...well. Everything.

[the_keeper]

A part of Sabine is tempted for a heartbeat to prompt the woman to finish her question in words rather than drifting implication, perhaps, for better and worse, given the soft noise Yennefer had made. But it's gone before it even fully lands in Sabine's thoughts, and she tips her head barely. "Jack is unique."

( ... something that is and shouldn't be ... )
That is a fact in so many more ways than the woman before her can know because no one here does, and Jack doesn't let himself keep most of the puzzle pieces of it that he works out in front of that thick, obscuring wall in his mind and memories. With a bit of panache of a smile and a shrug of shoulders, Sabine adds with ease: "He's also my boyfriend."

He's more than that, too; loving Jack superseded her duty to Jack a long time ago, long before the six years of her coma, even if so much of the last weeks before this was about making sure to put her duty before her heart where it came to him.

A small sacrifice to make sure he—and through him humanity, the world—survived.
And then, somehow, she'd woken up here. With him. Something like human again.

[monomachy]

There is--a reluctance in him that Diana has rarely encountered since arriving in this world. It isn't distrust, exactly, which she's come to recognize from some of the people of Nocwich. She can't put her finger on why he would feel such a way, but she decides to do what she always does when someone around her is uneasy: attempt to reassure them with a smile and kind words.

"Well met, Dr. Jonathan Crane." Not a first name basis, but a full name basis. That's better, right? But the way she says it is warm and genuine, giving the impression that she truly is glad to meet him.

[monomachy]

There is a part of Diana that thinks along the same lines, but it has not been at the forefront of her mind since arriving in this land. Antiope had trained her to expect danger everywhere, from everyone, and that no fight would ever be fair. But despite that, it is simply in her nature to want to trust everyone she meets, and Altaïr has given her no reason not to trust him. Your heart is too soft, she can imagine her General admonishing her.

Right now, she doesn't care. His skin is warm and his lips are sweet, and that is all that matters.

He pauses, and Diana is only half a beat behind him. She wonders, briefly, if he means to stop--but instead he looks at her in a way that makes her heart pound in her chest and her stomach flip. Altaïr is brimming with intent, and between one blink and the next, that intent, that permission, is mirrored on her face. There is no doubt in her mind or her heart.

As he kisses her, she keeps one hand beneath his shirt, the other moving behind her to deftly tug at the tie cinching her dress at the waist. The gown itself is little more than one long bolt of cloth cleverly folded and draped, and without the tie, that becomes very apparent. Diana has always been a woman who believed in the power of actions, and she believes this one is quite strong.

Just mind the blade strapped to her leg.

[magicalarchaeologist]

Istredd's eyebrows shoot up and he laughs. "If I didn't know any better, I'd think this was all a clever plan to get into my good graces so you could get into hers." By knowing better, it's because he has literally touched Kell's mind. He knows the boy's true feelings. There are people who would absolutely do that.

Technically Lucifer was thinking of just that when he decided to take him as a placeholder roommate. Of potential use with Yennefer. Little did either of them know where that road would lead down.

He pats Kell's head though so he can know that he is simply teasing. "Yes, I can, but trust me when I say the best I can do is a foot in the door. Yenna is a hard teacher and difficult to impress. You'll learn a great deal from her." Istredd might make her agree with some reluctance to the idea, but from there Kell will have to impress her on his own. She's not going to waste her time. He thinks Kell seems to understand that though.

Yennefer doesn't currently have access to her Chaos, they're still working that out, but she has excelled in Thorne using their magics, including alchemy. Kell won't get a better teacher in terms of someone used to using a different magic forced to learn this world's instead.

"Don't suck up to her. Be real and respectful. And work harder than you're used to."

[thedevilwhorose]

"Don't worry about it."

He wonders if Yennefer could replicate it, even in small doses would do them some good... though he also wonders if there's an addictive quality to it. Either way he's not particularly talking to Yennefer at the moment unless he has no choice for fear she'll stab him. Or poison him. Or simply just make him feel small.

Very, very, very few people are capable of doing that. Next-to zero.

Ugh.

"They don't," he says in agreement. He's keeping an eye on the people around them, not the shops, in case anyone is listening in on their conversation as they walk. "They care about their own people and no matter how long any of us are here, no matter what we give or do for them, we're never going to be the ones that come first."

He smirks. "So we'll just have to find a way to prove we're better than them."

[thearchangel]

I think if we were on opposite sides, my people wouldn't stand a chance.

[But Garrus sounds more amused by the idea than anything. Really amused. And a little proud of Shepard. It's not every guy who can say their girlfriend could defeat the strongest army in Council Space.]

Really?

[Oh, crap - that's a lift - He makes a quick apology, and gently lifts her. Mindful of the fact his hands have literal talons and she's a lot smaller and crap he doesn't want to just throw her.] Yeah, that probably would. I have a hard enough time tracking how far ahead of her I am.

[thearchangel]

You, maybe. But I don't have a history of the 'Shepard Shuffle'.

[It's as good a date as any. As good an evening as it could be on the Citadel. If it wasn't the war hanging over their heads, it may as well be the horrors of the Fungi Dungeon.]

[But it's in the past. Unlike the war. It hadn't taken either of them away from one another's side. They'd been able to keep their promises. It's not shooting on the Presidium... but he figures he's doing a decent job of First Date. And when the song winds down, and he goes to do the big, dramatic dip, he doesn't hold back from leaning in, making a game attempt to press their foreheads together.]

[All is well in the world.]

[gynvael]

"Long story." Involving a dungeon, theft, and an illicit portal into the Free Cities. Julie did not purchase her horse, in other words, and Geralt might've foisted another stolen one onto her after certain...events transpired.

He turns a corner. A brief silence passes—not hesitant, just considering. His personal business is seldom a subject he entertains, but for once, he's inclined to answer.

Eventually, he settles on, "I trust her."

A rare handful make that list. She's important to him. They've undergone some shit together. It was not quite how they started—he'd simply had eyes on her for some enjoyable nights, and he knows she'd done the same—but they're here now.

[catholica]

Yeah.

( he's had some up and down times but he could, until recently, say things weren't the worst they could have been.

but not — )

Your home looking pretty good in comparison to this?

[soothsighs]

( Urianger hums at the offer. )

I confess, I have grown far more accustomed to tending to the ailments of others than to myself. Thy counsel would be most welcome.

( Not only welcome, but an opportunity to learn some slightly more practical ways to care for himself. Urianger's skill with magic means he often cuts corners when it comes to taking care of himself: he heals himself with celestial aether and uses his abilities to avoid having to focus on his physical strength, which means he's a little ...

Well. Underdeveloped, in that regard. He could stand to take a lesson or two from Thancred in how to keep his body in better condition for recovery. )

Indeed, thy stature doth suggest thou art well-accustomed to keeping thyself fit and strong.

( Thancred is dressed up, sure, but that's a tank bod under those fancy clothes. As with Moenbryda's powerful figure: Urianger has noticed, he has observed respectfully, and he has slotted it away in the back of his mind because there's nothing more he can do with that information — right? )

I suspect there is much I could learn from thee.

[restingstitchface]

Hands clench beneath the table. The polite thing to do would be to offer his hand, to be as open and sociable as society expects, but he had never enjoyed being the centre of attention. People had introduced him to the back of the hands as much as its palm.

So he simply offers a discreet smile. His voice is calm and pleasant.

"Thank you, Diana." He looks away for a second. First name basis are always difficult. "For at least making this evening a little more bearable."

Being surrounded by people? Also difficult.

[vecna]

I hate the goats, too.

[He says in immediate agreement, feeling no shame whatsoever about leaning so easily into a word as inflammatory as "hate." The goats here have given him nothing but a terrible time; bullies, the lot of them. If Henry had to create a sliding scale of "how I feel about certain wildlife", then spiders would be at the top, and goats... very close to the bottom. Thanks, Solvunn.

The rest, though, receives a response that takes only minutely more time to consider before speaking.]

...But no. I don't feel the same. You're right; there are worse prisons to be in.

[This could be HNL. This could be his old family house and the new life it represented when nothing was going to change and he knew it and his parents didn't.]

But a prison's still a prison, Eddie. I'm not sure this is the life I would have chosen for myself, no matter how peaceful it can be here. So, in the end, my choice is still stripped from me. And how can anyone be happy about that?

[vixening]

There is a feeling here, a not-quite hesitation, that draws Yennefer's attention. It's barely a moment, maybe even less, but there is something - something to the way Sabine says unique, something to the tip of her head. Yennefer doesn't know what to make of it, doesn't know if it's as easy as the second comment the girl makes, or something else entirely - but if there's anything she's figured about Jack Townsend, it's that nothing ever seems to be the easy answer.

So Yennefer lets the curiosity linger, turning just slightly so that she's facing Sabine more directly. Waiting, at first, to see if there's anything else she'll follow up her comment with. And when she doesn't, Yennefer nods. Her boyfriend, then, as well as something else she doesn't care to divulge. All in all, it's fine - Yennefer doesn't really care enough right now, so she'll let it go.

"You're lucky." She says after a moment. "To end up in the same faction; many from the same Sphere end up spread out across the continent."

[malicieux]

I suppose I was tired of waiting for proof that one existed.

{ The corners of his mouth turn up into a smile that's not exactly amused, and probably doesn't do anything to ease any feelings of discomfort. He does, however, give the offered hand a brief shake. }

Lestat de Lioncourt. A pleasure, despite the circumstances.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Hilda's on eyes are trained on the other sorts of skulls - namely the human sort - which at that point she had already concluded weren't real. It doesn't necessarily cross her mind that Abby would want animal or creature skulls woven through her gorgeous locks. But when Abby lulls into a silence, Hilda's eyes dart towards her, ensuring that nothing is the matter before she follows where Abby is looking.

Something akin to amusement sparks in her gaze and she reaches for the small reptile-looking skull and holds it aloft in appraisal. ]

I do! It's just a little something I like to do when I've got the time. And we seem to have plenty of it now. [ She holds out the skull towards Abby with a grin. ] Do you like the looks of this one?

[theidlemaiden]

[ It would have been difficult for Hilda to not recall the birds; she had spent a whole afternoon watching Viktor improve them and helped him test them by running around the city. There's a curve of her lips at the recollection - less at the memory of her pinched toes and more at seeing Viktor work that day.

When Viktor produces his idea, the expression on her face is...less than enthusiastic. Her lips press out in a thoughtful pout. There's no doubt that it'll work mechanically. But appearance wise it is sort of what she expects considering the general aesthetic of Viktor's inventions. Namely industrial and functional. ]

But don't you think there's something to be said about it being more friend-shaped? May I?

[ And if Viktor does grant her pen and sketchbook back she produces her own idea. ]

Like this!

[theidlemaiden]

Hearing that Wylan never had the opportunity to play (if play could even be considered the right word for it) with his wardrobe tugs at Hilda's heart strings. It's incredibly spoiled of her to think that not having that sort of opportunity to wear what you wanted because you genuinely liked it, or even have the chance to experiment to discover what you liked, is a tragedy that must immediately rectified - but she doesn't give it a second thought.

She wants Wylan to enjoy what he wears and to have the choice to do what he liked with his clothing. There's something akin to a firece determination in her voice. "Well luckily for you we've got some money to throw around. We're going to find you something that you feel amazing in and that fits you. If you see something in one of the windows, let me know and we can go in, okay? And don't be shy about it either."

[theidlemaiden]

[ It's not uncommon for Hilda to jump right into acting like she's known someone for years even if she's just met them. What was the point of acting like strangers?

To give herself some iota of credit, she's showing an incredible amount of restraint with Geralt. Familiarity, or lack of, will never stop her from feeling and showing concern for them however.

She's at the top of the ladder when he replies, prompting the line between her brow to deepen. ]

You mean things like that have happened to you before?

[everybodysterrible]

He's very good at not saying anything. Or, saying things without talking, is more the vibe here. It's annoying as fuck asking a question that deserves at least a sentence and getting, at best, a terse greeting card instead. But it's still a thing she can respect to a degree.

Talking to people is hard.

"Sounds like that means a lot to you." This is sincere, she means it. As it sounds like admitting that much is more than most get, and saying it took something from him. "And so does she."

[theidlemaiden]

[ The words and the fondness behind it are a strange juxtaposition but she thinks that she recognizes it. It's the admiration of another's skill, far outranking any sort of loyalties you might be told to have.

Trying to have a delicate mix of being ready for the lift but not stiffening up in worry is a difficult one to achieve but one that she manages. A delighted laugh escapes her lips as her feet leave the ground before touching back down again in good time. ]

There's at least three different timelines that we know of? [ For the first time since they started, a furrow appears in her face before it's wiped away when she catches herself. ] And we all remember things a little differently. Did that happen with you and your commander?

[ordinar]

Wilhelm is half-distracted by a performer juggling balls of light that change color as she tosses them around, but his eyes cut back to Lucifer once he arrives at that conclusion.

"How do we do that? The whole idea of a monarchy is built on the assumption that there's a reason for you to be in power. Tradition is always right."

Judging by the edge to his words, he's rebuking not just the Thornean court. He's lived in that system, been a big shiny cog in the machine, and he knows exactly how it's programmed.

[thedevilwhorose]

He isn't so easily distracted.

"Tradition is stupid," he says, very quietly despite how much he wants to loudly throw the words around. "Even if, I suppose, 'tradition' says I'm the King of Hell. It was mine from the beginning; it should always be mine."

[takeatrip]

I live in DC, so depends on the day.

[He's mostly joking; DC is usually a great place, and he likes living and working there the vast majority of the time.]