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]

I wouldn't say that I'm not not happy. Sometimes it leads to situations like these and who wouldn't be happy about dancing with someone handsome like you?

[ A teasing grin flutters to her face again as they sweep through the other dancers. There's a series of fast steps coming up in this particular dance - a nice little challenge for the both of them. It fades as she releases his hands to step around him in sync with the other dancers doing the same to their dance partners. ]

I like making people happy most of the time. It just gets tiring, I guess.

[ Are they really talking about dancing anymore? ]

[wiedzminka]

Did we?

[ Ciri intends to laugh, y'know, normally. But it comes out more of a startled, higher-than-intended giggle when Hilda gives her that look.

Shit. Is she drunk? The next thought just gets blurted out. Not an answer to the question. ]

You have such unusual eyes.

[theidlemaiden]

Ciri, we're definitely friends.

[ It's said with a squeeze of her hand to punctuate the point.

Ciri's laugh catches Hilda off guard - not because she thinks she's being laughed at, but because she hadn't expected it to come from her. Although to be fair they hadn't been in many scenarios for her to experience her laughing; there's not much to laugh about in the midst of fighting for your lives. It's an encouraging reaction all the same, causing her to drop the act for a moment as her laugh mingles with Ciri's. ]

Unusual? I've never had someone compliment me that way before. [ But she'll bite. She takes a tiny step closer. ] What's so unusual about them?

[ Aside from the obvious colour. ]

[wiedzminka]

[ It's a good thing Hilda knows it's definitely a compliment. And an obvious one, as Ciri's next answer is not at all subtle or particularly well thought-out. ]

The color.

I've never seen it before.

[ ... ]

Is your hair naturally pink too?

[theidlemaiden]

[ Hilda's lips twitch. Anyone else asking the question would have been on the receiving end of a well aimed punch, but it's pretty evident from the momentary brain break of the kiss to the guzzled mead that Ciri probably didn't know what she was asking.

Is a little bit mean to pull a trick on someone who's probably both a little tipsy and clueless? Probably. But hopefully she'd forgive her for this too. She tries her best to hold back the smile that threatens to appear on her face but it's the sparkle in her eyes that gives it away. ]

Are you asking me if the curtains match the drapes?

[sorser]

[Oh... that makes his frown deepen. Stephen can quietly count his blessings that his manner of magic is accepted in his universe, and though there are plenty of other multiversal issues knocking at Earth's door almost constantly, being distrusted due to his Eldritch magic isn't something he ever has to worry about.

(Though, it makes him think of Wanda. Her chaos magic. How must she feel-)]

Nothing's worth that.

[For the Oracles. No glimpse into the future is worth that kind of treatment. But Kyle's next remark feels... pointed. The comment about Thorne is clearly there to gauge and to fish. To Stephen's credit, the pause before replying isn't a long one.]

Maybe so. Probably so. We would never have been summoned in, otherwise.

[Which is still, you know, a very nice term for forcibly kidnapped.]

But we're using Thorne, too, in our own way.

[For resources. For information. For wringing out what use they can from this magic-inclined territory if they're stuck here for an indeterminate amount of time. To solve the problems and mysteries of the Singularity.

And one couldn't really say that about the acolytes.]

[wiedzminka]

[ It's kind of Hilda to be understanding. Judging by the blank, vacant look she gets from the Witcher girl, her suspicions that Ciri has no idea what's going on should be roundly confirmed.

Ciri blinks. Her brows furrow slightly, while she tries to decipher Hilda's peculiar expression. ]

What curtains?

[familysucks]

[Michael turns away from the dancing crowd that attracted his attention, blinking at Wanda. For a moment, he can't place the apology. She's been resolute in the belief that her pact with Soris is the right decision.

Then it comes to him—an old man's ear, a child's finger, a seamstress's eye. Of course.]

Apology accepted, but I did offer.

[And he would not have taken "no" for an answer.]

You'll have to show me your sigils. All those I know are unlikely to be of much use, here.

[He could ward Solvunn's borders against his brother and demons from his world, but what would be the point of that? His family's black sheep have caused surprisingly little harm, at least so far as he's heard. The danger at present is from the locals.]

Do the Elder mages and the Council not trust us? [He hadn't noticed, but he's had minimal interaction with either group.] I assumed it was their tradition to teach their customs slowly, only as needed. I suppose they wouldn't agree to take one of the Summoned on as an apprentice, then?

[familysucks]

[An android or an artificial intelligence is not too far off from the truth of what he is. Angels are created, not born; they are entities with inborn programming to direct their actions and without physical bodies of their own. Michael might be puzzled by the comparison, but not insulted.

He stops the ball with his foot, expression momentarily blank. Invitations to play are common from the children, but from a vampire? Directed at someone like himself?

Well. Michael supposes he's seen stranger things in Abraxas. He gives a light shrug.]

Alright. I suppose we may as well.

[There's a sympathetic understanding from one eldest child to another. Michael's younger years were a chronicle of steadily mounting responsibilities, too. It ought to be his turn to have fun by now. Maybe they'll learn something along the way.

He sends the ball back at Louis with a tap of his foot. Josselyn's execution was a public event and Michael feels little empathy, least of all for the none too dearly departed Creed, so he doesn't mind discussing the execution. He tilts his head to the side, considering what points to cut and which to include to build a complete but succinct summary.]

It was insight into what the locals consider adequate punishment for serious misdeeds. They flayed a sheep, then laid its skin over her, which forced her into the same form. [The gory details of her screaming over the sound of her own flesh being rearranged is one of the details he decides to omit.] Then they called down one of their old gods to feast on her. Very little was left.

[Michael figures he doesn't need to be explicit. Mostly eaten, the ball reminds him of it—a head. She was just a head, by the end.]

[ushiri]

[ He studies Stephen's frown. The hatred and condemnation toward anyone using magic outside of Parfir's blessing never found purchase within Kahlil, if he'd had such intense prejudice Thorne would've tossed him back in the well. Or worse.

Kahlil's mistrust is applied to any man who seek to hold power without regard for the cost - not all choices can be good, but some are inherently wrong. The Queen and her supporters, their desire to control the Singularity. The experiment to transfer a Summoned's connection to a native. There are echoes of the mistakes made in his own world.

But we're using Thorne, too, in our own way. He lets out a light huff. ]

That's a generous way to put it. [ It's not the wrong answer, though.

He chews on the inside of his cheek for a second. ]

We have a mutual friend. She has a cabin in the woods. Past the trees is a tower - if you hit the gas station, you've gone too far. [ He gives a crooked smile. ]

We should talk there sometime.

[ He is, as always, cautious. ]

[carmesi]

[there are so many ways to see how these events unfolded—so many ways to realize that it's not all quite so simple, or over at all. wanda doesn't respond for a moment, wondering if any of the things that have occurred to them, both because of the singularity and otherwise, were in any way connected.

are they just to be targets of whatever this world throws at them? are they the ones triggering these events? she can't get rid of how josselyn had said she wanted to imitate the bond the summoned allegedly have with the divine.

a group of mages starts ushering the crowd to get closer to witness the execution. wanda spares alucard a glance.]

We'll just have to keep our eyes and ears open. I can keep you in the loop of anything new taking place in Solvunn. [for she is sure he will be interested in it, and the more heads they can get working together, hopefully they can avoid something like what happened.] Shall we go?

[carmesi]

[like most everyone who returned from the pit they had been abducted to, louis seems, unsurprisingly, in need of something to tether him to a sense of purpose. it's easy to feel lost amidst everything that solvunn is and isn't, so she can only hope she can help guide others towards... well, that purpose, new or re-kindled.

for, in her heart, she feels that louis isn't quite adjusting to life here. can't be blamed, especially if his arrival after being summoned was quickly met with an abduction.

not much room to find his footing.]

I'll always make time for you. [—and other solvunn summoned. she glances at him, nodding.] And for anything else you might need.

[though cold and a harder nut to crack then most, it's never been a lack of love and care from wanda's part. it's always been how to express it in a way that she feels confident about.]

[carmesi]

[wanda doesn't move from where she crouches, folding her arms around her legs when henry takes the rod for himself and tosses the line into the water.

bloop, it goes, and her eyes follow the ripples until they disappear.]

Maybe we only see it as a sport or form of entertainment, but it began from necessity, as most everything else. ['it never had to be fun', she doesn't say, looking at the situation over with the cold and hardened logic that she is bound to work around with.] I can imagine it being relaxing if I was listening to a book or to a song while waiting for a fish to take the bait.

[at this, she stands—sorry for the audible spoiler—and takes a step back so she's on firmer ground.]

I grew up in the city, so I never did any of this. I remember American commercials and movies with families on boats in a lake fishing. Did you ever do that?

[...before he was taken?]

[carmesi]

[they're just runes, she wishes to say, but doesn't. she holds back, clings to the idea that if she did show them to michael, there is one more person who could help her in the small charms of protection the runes provide.

even if it's all part of the pagan stuff that she is certain he feels some way about.

with a short nod, she tucks her arms closer to herself, shifting where she sits, as if uncomfortable. it's hard to find a way to feel comfortable, after the past couple of months. even if things are okay, there's that sense that something doesn't sit quite right.]

Probably not. [—in taking an apprentice, that is.] Maybe there is some amount of trust, but we're still outsiders. Rowan had asked me to look into something before the abductions happened, trusted me with sparing a family of some uncertain fate. I... [the words catch in her mouth for a moment; she purses her lips, and then tries again.] I think trust comes with time. I've been here over a year now, I've worked on doing things for the benefit of the commune, but we still aren't told everything.

[and that's what she hopes can change.

she lets out an exasperated breath of air.]

I've never really been the leader type. That's more Steve and Sam's area of expertise, [...if he's ever met them...] but I want to do more for who we have here. [and, when she turns the focus back on him, her question is a little out of left field.] Do you wish to stay in Abraxas, or are you itching to find a way back home?

/end!

[cryptsleeper]

Thank you. I'll do the same. [Not that Alucard thinks that they will have much talk of gods in the Free Cities, but he'll be working towards it all the same.

He doesn't like the mages starting to direct people about. Alucard feels something in him grow tenser out of instinct, and it takes effort to force his shoulders to relax again.]

I think so. I'll try to be in touch.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Somehow Hilda saw that one coming too. It's too difficult to keep a straight face at that point. Her mischievousness slips through her attempt at a serious expression and she has to purse her lips in an attempt to keep it together. ]

You know like...

[ Hilda's eyes flit down and she makes a motion towards her own pelvic area. ]

Down there?

[godshattering]

[ The tongue across his palm gets a wrinkle of his nose that's not genuine but more of a played up reaction, and as Sylvain relocates his hand he's quick to overdramatically wipe it on the other man's shirt. There's no time for a comment on smothering, supposed gazes following someone else, or any other smart remarks before Claude's getting a taste of his own medicine and a hand lands on his mouth.

This is quite the chain reaction he thinks as he looks up at Hilda with mirth and fondness, the flames for both only stoked by her reluctance to look at them and the protest. Easy then to repeat a version of Sylvain's convincing hand removal but this version includes Claude pressing a hidden kiss to her palm before reaching to pry ("pry") it away. Rather than let go, he simply holds onto it against his shoulder. ]

You're just giving me support for what I'm saying, you know. If you didn't notice us that's because you were commanding everything and were too busy for us. I see how it is.

[ The last part said like he's deeply wounded, naturally. Though if Sylvain thought he was going to escape being roped further into anything, well. The smirk preceding this next statement will make that clear that's not the case. ]

Sylvain agrees since he's already admitted to watching both of us.

[assembles]

[ Claude makes a lightly teasing comment about the speeches, but moves on just as quickly. Steve doesn't mind at all, as he'd felt there was enough good done in saying those words to put up with all the heckling that came about because of them.

It doesn't surprise Steve at all to hear that Claude is the sort of person who'll say what he's thinking, even in a politically tense situation. ]

There's a reason I never really got into politics, let's just say that much.

[ Even dealing with the mess that had been the Accords, others might have handled it differently or searched for a compromise. Not Steve, though.

Despite everything, he isn't quite prepared for the clearly genuine sentiment of thanks that Claude gives him, even clapping him on the shoulder. They've been through a lot of tense, horrible situations together, whether it was navigating a nightmare, searching a collapsed building for survivors, or enduring the pit. In that sense, it's nice to be able to reflect on it here and now, and to make it clear that he'll support Claude outside of a crisis situation too. ]

Of course. Any time. [ With that he takes another sip of his drink and settles in to enjoy the rest of the evening at the gala. ]

[oversurge]

[ Thanks, Sephiroth. That does bring him satisfaction. Reno flashes a grin, then puts his lightning fingers away. As much as he likes to show off, it's still an asset, and Reno's in a place where he's guarding his assets and advantages with a bit of care. As opposed to just throwing them out there to scare the locals like he did back home.

Adaptability and all that.

His eyebrow lifts at the small flame. Not the most impressive display from Mr. First Class Fame, is it?

Reno's got enough self-preservation not to remark on how Sephiroth ain't burning down any towns with that sad little demonstration. Instead, he claps Sephiroth on the back with something that almost passes for encouragement. If you squint. ]

Can't all be experts at everything. [ Unless you're a Turk. ] Maybe you just gotta stick with swinging that sword of yours. At least they let you carry 'em around over there.

[theidlemaiden]

[ That mental image gets a laugh out of her. ]

If it looks anything like someone trying to learn how to use a spear or an axe a lot bigger than you then I think I might know what that looks like.

[ Thank goodness there's no such thing as photographs in Fodlan yet otherwise Hilda is positive that she'd be subjected to Holst trying to carry those around everywhere. Large portraits were a little more unruly. But that does give her a spark of an idea to bug Jayce the next time she sees him - sorry Caitlyn!

It's hard not to laugh right along with Caitlyn at the joke about gray hair. This isn't the first time she's met another little sister, but she's missed Holst even though she's reluctant to admit it. Being able to chatter about little sister things and talk about their brothers like this means so much. ]

Tell me about it. The age gap between Holst and I isn't as big as the one between you two, but I never thought I'd ever be an age he was. [ A fake gasp. ] Are we getting old too, Cait?

[philancer]

I wasn't about to deny it.

[ Sylvain confirms his watching with a smirk as he rolls a bit to pillow his cheek against Hilda's knee. His fingers drop to trace absent shapes and swirls against the warm skin of her thigh beneath him. ]

You two were the best things to look at all night, after all. Why would I look anywhere else?

[ Part of that might be pretty flattery and flirting, but that didn't mean a note of truth didn't lurk in there as well. ]

[preferscuffs]

[The joys of learning a weapon that your body isn't fully developed for just yet. Woo tiny warriors.]

I would imagine it looks quite similar.

[Don't give Jayce any ideas or he might start doing it here. Then Caitlyn might feel compelled to never leave the house ever again.... until her tea supply ran out. As long as the idea is also used against other people, it's fine.

She's more than happy to bond together as mutual little sisters. It's not something Caitlyn's done before and it's actually really nice? Then again, it's Hilda and most things done in the other woman's company are nice. So that shouldn't really come as a surprise.]

Speak for yourself. [There's dry amusement in Caitlyn's voice, eyes twinkling merrily.] I'm only twenty-two. That's nowhere near old.

[But Hilda on the other hand... maybe it's time to start looking for gray's in the mirror, bestie.]

[lightkeeping]

Yeah, I don't...really like the settlement.

[She doesn't like being around people, is the larger issue, but she's no fan of the elders, either. And she never really asked permission--just one day, decided to strike out on her own. It's not like she's totally absent from the activities of civilization, really--evidenced by the fact that she's here right now.

Aloy might not be an artist, but she's good with her hands.]

I wouldn't recommend it, for someone who isn't used to being out on their own, but it's better than having the elders breathing down my neck.

[princessvegas]

[ To Julie's knowledge, no one has encountered anything like the ritual's effects before. What they do gain seems to range from unnoticeable to mildly annoying to very useful, but nothing gruesome or evil. At least in her time here. ]

I mean, depends on the power. Sometimes, it's always like, on, I guess. I got one of those. And sometimes it's somethin' you have to learn how to call up. Got one of those too. But yeah, it ain't magic exactly like the other kinds.

[ She shrugs and takes a drink. Because of her background, the lack of magic, she sometimes has a hard time describing these things, especially to other Summoned from similar worlds who were summoned into the Cities. In Thorne and Solvunn, at least, they encourage studying magic. It's easier for them to communicate. ]

Best I can figure is that it's specific to the Singularity, to bein' directly connected. We don't belong here, and what's keepin' us here is some of the strongest magic anyone can think of. So I guess it's like a side effect of that.

[theidlemaiden]

[ If it ever came to that, Hilda would dutifully supply her with tea. It only felt right considering she would be partially responsible for the embarrassment in this hypothetical scenario. But then again, there would come a point where that wouldn't be socially acceptable anymore and she'd also take it upon herself to drag Caitlyn from the house.

But maybe she wouldn't after that little comment. The teasing insinuation doesn't go unnoticed and Hilda lets out a gasp, only countered by the spark of laughter in her eyes. ]

You don't mean that! I'm not that old either I only just turned twenty-five!

[ ...In February. But still. That was years away from 'practically thirty'. ]