MINI-EVENT: CODA - IC EVENT LOG

[abraxasmods]

Mini-Event - Coda

OOC event plotting

---

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

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

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

Divine Judgment

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

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

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

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

Last Rites

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

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

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

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

Preparation

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

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

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

Penance

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

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

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

Immolation

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

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

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

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

Weekend Gala

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

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

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

Thorne (Hayle)

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

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

Gifts

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

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

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

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

Surroundings

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

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

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

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

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

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

Banquet

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

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

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

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

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

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

Free Cities (Libertas)

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

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

Gifts

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

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

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

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

Surroundings

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

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

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

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

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

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

Garden Feast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Solvunn (Primary Settlement)

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

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

Gifts

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

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

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

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

Surroundings

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

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

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

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

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

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

Potluck

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eddie Munson will hold a lively musical performance.

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

---

Comments

[funbreaker]

You don't have to, for the record. Answer it, I mean.

[ It doesn't matter that they've grown close over the past year and more, or that they've already revealed plenty about themselves to each other. If Stephen has certain subjects that remain off-limits, Thancred is not the sort who would push.

He realizes this might be a sensitive subject, and that asking so directly, even after all this time, might be seen as rude. But he has been curious.

He gives a small nod toward their clasped hands as they take another turn on the dancefloor, his expression sympathetic, because even if the scars are old, he can only imagine what sort of pain came with them. ] Your injury — what happened?

[ The scars. The tremor. It all speaks to a severe injury, especially since the scars look purposeful — surgical, even. ]

[theidlemaiden]

If you did, I'd think that you're bad at accepting compliments or something. [ The statement is punctuated with a playful squeeze of her hands. ] Not that I think there's anything wrong with that. It is fun to try and make you blush.

[ Speaking of though - a small dusting of pink colours her cheeks as they step back into time with the other dancers around them. ]

Oh shucks. You're not too bad yourself. Did you learn how to dance at home?

[wiedzminka]

[ Well, if Hilda was trying to make Ciri blush, she's succeeded an embarrassing number of times already. Though this compliment doesn't fluster Ciri the same way the one about her looks had.

She laughs, taking a few quick steps in a circle with her thin cape twirling around her ankles as she spins away from Hilda, then back into her. ]

I did. In ballrooms, and on the battlefield.

Swordwork's as much about the steps as the blade.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Consider it a super soft ball that barely managed to land at Ciri's feet. Or a kindness. Or both? Regardless, she's true to her word when she says that she enjoys it.

Hilda catches Ciri gracefully, fingers intertwining once again with hers before Swordwork requiring fancy footwork seems to be true in every world. It was one of the few places that the dancing lessons from Hilda's childhood had come in handy and where she hadn't had too much trouble. ]

No wonder you're good at both. [ Fabrics swish around them as the couples take a turn around the dance floor. ] We had a competition at the Academy between the houses that was about that very thing but it had more to do with how charming you were than your footwork or swordsmanship.

[ Those years seem so far away now and she can't help but look a little wistful at the thought. ]

Did you have to learn for something specific?

Maybe wrap on this one for them!

[itookashot]

She's the strongest person I know. She went through so much darkness and still sees the world's beauty, somehow.

[ Jesper wouldn't say that is how he is. He is an optimist, more so than Kaz, but he also is the person who has to do the ugly work sometimes. Like in this situation, the blood on his hands something he will live with like he always does. The pleasure he got in drowning in it, a more serious problem. But Inej, she has so much hope, for someone who lost all of it.

That's why it was his job to protect her. He should have never let them split up to look for Kaz. That was the mistake. They're always stronger together. He feels no pity in him for Josselyn Creed. The many lives she took for her cause, one life hardly seems enough of a price. ]

It's going to be a hard few months. We'll have to face it together.

[ Jesper turns and presses a kiss to the top of his head since he towers over most people. It's the most they can do on the other end of this. For Matt, for Inej, and all the others.]

sorry fell behind, let's wrap here on this one!

[itookashot]

I'm not surprised, it probably ruins his image of himself as a stone cold badass.

[ Jesper laughs. It's mostly that someone can be both! Geralt might not see himself that way, but everyone around him probably sees the truth. It's nice though, he knows a lot of people who are full of themselves, himself included. Geralt helped him and never asked for anything in return. Jesper has a good dad himself, but he thinks Ciri is lucky to have a great one too. Not everyone does.

He knows that she's right, that looking backward will not help any of them. The fact is, he didn't protect them, but he did help rescue them. They made it in time to get off the mountain and everyone made it. He doesn't bring up Dean because that isn't the sort of thing you say off the cuff, and it's other people's story to tell. They did lose someone, one person. One person for saving everyone, he doubts Dean would regret that, even if Jesper does, on behalf of those who loved him.

He smiles at her and pulls her into a hug because she is just so perfect, his Julie. Perfect in her imperfections and her giant heart, for those she loves. He's loved her so long now that it's as natural as breathing. ]

That's a deal, love.

[wiedzminka]

Do you mean the dancing or the swordsmanship?

[ Ciri seems a lot more in her element with this conversation than before; just give her blades or horses to talk about, and she can chat all day. ]

Oh? [ Her brows go up at the mention of the competition. ] So did you win?

[ By virtue of being charming. ]

[princessvegas]

So y'all... don't go to crime scenes? [ She sounds genuinely confused. How can they possibly know what to do if it's all in some kind of virtual reality? What about DNA? (She is confusing augmented reality with virtual reality, and is currently just picturing Ice-T lying in a recliner and solving crimes from home.)

All she can do is shake her head in disbelief as she takes a gulp of wine. ] And I thought those YouTube videos of people ninja slicin' blocks in time to music were wild.

[ This is a very niche reference and she does not explain. ]

[takeatrip]

[Jayden doesn't get the reference, sadly; although he is vaguely aware of Fruit Ninja, anything beyond that is past his time.

But he's more focused on her first question anyway, shaking his head.]

No, we do, it's just a helpful tool while we're there. Lets you do things like comparing DNA samples or fingerprints to a database while still on site, take photos or videos of evidence to go back over later, take measurements of things like footprints without having to physically do it yourself, that sorta' thing. But if you're in the office or somewhere else you're not gonna be disturbed, there are also full environments, where you can go over the evidence like on a computer but a lot more hands on.

[No digging through paper files, no trying to find space on your desk, no spilling coffee on reports and having to redo them...]

That's the part that's most like the Horizon, but usually the environments were preprogrammed, not customizable.

[However, that 'usually' is doing a lot of work here.]

[theidlemaiden]

Both. I just want to learn more about you.

[ Picking up on the fact that Ciri seems to be relaxing into their conversation puts Hilda into a relaxed comfort of her own. Not that she wasn't enjoying herself before - but it definitely felt better knowing that she hadn't completely bungled up earlier. ]

Oh, I didn't participate - not that my Professor didn't try to get me to enter. [ She had purposefully been Very Unavailable the weeks leading up to. ] Only one person from each House can participate and I don't really - [ Here, she almost says, 'don't really wield anything' before realizing that it's very difficult to dispute something that Ciri had seen first hand. ] use swords.

we can probably call it good here-ish?

[takeatrip]

I'd be interested in hearin' what you figure out about that.

[The legal system. He's going to do his own research of course, but he's definitely curious on that front, though for now--]

'Til then.

[It probably won't be too long before they run into each other again.]

[philancer]

[ Sylvain gives a sudden snort of laughter and pushes Claude's face away with his hand as the man tugs his shirt down over his shoulders. He doesn't resist, instead shrugging the rest of the way out and tossing it to the side where he'd left his jacket. ]

Now you're just showing a tragic level of ignorance. Don't you know the most fascinating layer of what girls wear is always under what you can see? [ He's smirking as he glances over at Hilda and gives her a long and pointed once-over. ] Considering our Hilda's love of fashion, I'd wager whatever she's hiding would leave you speechless.

[ He rolls up on one elbow, invading Hilda's personal space as he leans in close. ] Am I right?

[wiedzminka]

[ That frank assertion gets another hint of a blush from Ciri (seems not too difficult to do, at least right now). There's a final spin around their partners, and the song winds down, slowing into a different tune to give the dancers a break from all the fast-paced twirling.

They stay on the floor, and Ciri naturally lowers her voice a little and moves closer when the music shifts, so they're not speaking over the somewhat softer tune. ]

I learned both to survive, though in different situations. [ She responds truthfully, nodding when Hilda mentions she doesn't use swords. Ciri doesn't question it; she's seen the axe, and considers it just a preference for a different weapon. ]

Hm. What kind of professor? Seems an odd sort of contest to hold.

[theidlemaiden]

[ If Hilda's scoff is any indication, she had been on the verge of saying something in the spirit of what Sylvain had. That in fact, she was wearing undergarments underneath her dress that had taken more time to get into than the actual dress itself. Thankfully she's spared the effort and treated to a nice view at the same time.

Just because she was about to say it however doesn't mean that she had been about to say it like that. She can't help but start with a bit of a flustered - ]

Well, I don't know about speechless - [ Managing to wrestle her flustered feelings into something more manageable she continues, ] but it's definitely nice. And if you both stop teasing me you might actually get to see me in it. [ She arches an eyebrow as she gives Sylvain a nudge right back. ] Unless you're both serious about wanting to see me combust.

[theidlemaiden]

[ When the song ends, Hilda half expects Ciri to guide them off the dance floor. They had done their agreed upon one dance and a quick scan around the room indicates that her suitor is still no where to be found. Much to her (pleasant) surprise however, they remain, with Ciri moving closer.

Hilda adjusts her hands accordingly to a looser hold now that they've stopped spinning. ]

Different situations could mean anything! [ Curious as ever she can't help but ask the question that comes to mind. ] Were you part of court of some kind?

[ As for Ciri's question. ]

Byleth was a mercenary that ended up teaching at the Officer's Academy. [ There's some fondness to her tone as she recalls her professor. ] We didn't believe it either; they didn't look that much older than most of us were at the time. But they had a scary title too – the Ashen Demon.

[ At that there's some dramatic embellishment that dissolves into a giggle. ]

They were a little quiet when they first started teaching us, but he opened up a little bit after that.

[sorser]

[Ah. And so the focus returns to his hands. Stephen is once again aware of them, of the way Thancred holds them, their faint tremor born of irreversible nerve damage, only ever steadied when he focuses his magic through them.

His lips twist wryly. No, this isn't a secret. But it is a little (or not so little) slice of his past that he doesn't bring up often, simply because it feels like a lifetime ago.

Still, it was only a matter of time before this question arose, and he finds he doesn't mind telling it to Thancred. Not a shred of hesitation as they take that turn around the dance floor.]

Ah, that. I was reckless. Thought I was invincible, drove a... [Does Thancred know what an automobile is by now? Has anyone mentioned it to him? He wonders.] ...transport too quickly in the rain, without paying much attention the road. My vehicle went flying off the ledge, and crashed front-end first on the way down. The whole thing practically folded up -- it crushed nearly every bone in every finger, and the nerve damage was... bad.

Not exactly a fortuitous fate for anyone, but more so for a surgeon who relied so much on his hands for his work.

[carmesi]

[she glances at him when he says ‘wildlife’, an attempt to tease him about it, but knowing full well that henry doesn’t necessarily take humor at his expense with particular enjoyment. she does let it lie, for now, and nods thoughtfully.]

My brother was the artist between the two of us. [scribbled and self-taught as it all was. a scrunching of her nose—] He didn’t draw a lot of animals, though.

[something in the lake stirs, creating ripples, very close to henry’s line and bait. wanda turns her gaze towards it.]

I’d like to see them some time.

[his wildlife drawings]

[princessvegas]

Oh! So more like those stupid glasses that Google made! You can look at like, a restaurant sign and it'll make the menu show up in your vision, that kinda thing. I get it. I mean, the Google ones were a total flop, but more power to y'all if you made it work.

[ And Julie did not even get to see the absolute horror show that will be Apple Vision. A true nightmare of technology. ]

Did it actually help? Solve crimes?

[takeatrip]

[It's probably for the best that Google Glass hasn't been made yet for Jayden, because he'd probably have been one of the approximately six people in the world who loved it and was disappointed but its failure.]

I don't know what that is, but sounds about right.

[Close enough, anyway; sure it's not restaurant menus popping up, but change the subject matter and it's... Basically the same, yeah.]

Yeah, it helped, mostly because it was so fast. Everything they did could've been done by hand or usual methods on a computer, but the big thing was that they saved a whole lot of time, which is somethin' that really counts when you're dealing with missing people. Instead of a team taking several hours to assess a scene, then potentially having to wait days for the DNA and fingerprints to come back, one person could fully sweep a scene and have all the evidence analyzed within half an hour.

[godshattering]

[ There's an immediate eye roll from Claude here, predictably enough, and if Sylvain hadn't already tossed his shirt aside Claude would have helpfully tossed it at its owners face. ]

I meant one layer over everything, not that I don't know how women's clothing works. [ Was that clear from what he said? No, but alcohol's made him think it was so he's going to carry right on sounding matter-of-fact. ] Plus, Hilda, I can't help but notice you didn't answer about getting us out of everything first.

[ A pause, as he helpfully leans his elbow on Sylvain for a full stacking up effect here and like he's siding with his co-conspirator rather than moving back and forth between whatever side ("side") of this will benefit him most, as usual. After getting comfortable, that's absolutely the perfect time to turn yet another innocent look on Hilda. ]

But if that'd also cause you to combust, we can wait. I'm sure Sylvain agrees.

[philancer]

Can I take the option of seeing you in it and then making you combust?

[ Sylvain's response is quick and cheeky, returning the nudge once more. Although when Claude props himself on top of him, he arches an eyebrow, because he's not actually sure which side he's playing at the moment. Other than his own.

Which, of course, prompts him to lean in and not-so-quietly whisper to Hilda. ]

I think he's bluffing. I definitely should have gotten you to help me get him in a whole lacy corset setup under that dress when I had the chance. Maybe then he'd appreciate it more. It would have been educational!

[theidlemaiden]

[ Her shoulders heave dramatically as she she sighs, leaning back into a seated position so she can face the pair of them. ]

Claude, you're giving some really mixed messages and I'm too tired to decipher them or make a decision.

[ Despite her exasperation and the fact that she's clearly on the receiving end of some teasing, seeing the two of them laid up together the way they are triggers a wave of fondness over her.

Wistfully she hopes for more of these moments, even though a quiet, rational voice that has mostly been muffled by the night's festivities until now tells her that she shouldn't wish for silly, childish things. She's always been good at ignoring it though, and at least for tonight she wants to cover her ears to that voice a little while longer.

The corners of her lips twitch at the recollection of helping Claude get ready for he and Sylvain's date. Ignoring that rational voice makes it easier to pretend that she had purposefully swallowed the unfortunate truth she had been keeping from Claude at the time. She's quick to side with Sylvain - at least for now. ]

When I was getting him ready last time [ She doesn't think she has to clarify what time she's referring to. ] he had no idea how to get into a dress. I think he'll have to go through that a couple more times before we graduate to a lacey corset.

[ Her fingers reach out, daintily walking up Claude's arm before hooking itself over the collar of his jacket and giving it a tug. It's a not so subtle sign that she's made her decision while answering Claude's. ]

Probably best to keep it nice and simple and start with removing these first.

[familysucks]

[Michael doesn't rush her, observing her work in silence for a few moments. Watching people go about simple—yet wholly novel to him—tasks can at times be as interesting as conversation.

It's not so weighty a question from his perspective. He's not someone who hesitates, and he knows his answer immediately.]

Will you be insulted if I say no? [He's going for it anyway. Claire doesn't seem the type.] I've never wanted to be anything other than what I am. I'd be freed of my responsibilities, but I've never wanted that either. Not even in exchange for a human sense of smell.

[Or taste. She's not putting in the effort for nothing, but he is going to need a proxy to tell him what the tea she's making tastes like.

He tilts his head at her, the slightest hint of amusement threading through his expression.]

There's a wavelength outside of your range of perception that's simultaneously black and white. If you mean the visible spectrum, blue or red.

[beautifullies]

Why in the world would that insult me? There are some absolute rubbish people in the world, I can hardly blame you.

[ At his mention of not having a sense of smell or taste, she does look at him, startled, wondering if he's only humoring her. ]

Blue or red is much simpler, yes. And am I doing all of this for nothing? How are you going to enjoy an aromatic without two key senses?

[ Claire's eyebrows are raised as high as they'll go, because she'll stop right now and lecture him if this is all a sham. ]

[godshattering]

[ Educational gets a scoff from Claude. He's about to roll his eyes playfully again until he remembers he just did that, but the (accurate) Dress Slander is enough for immediate protest to come from him. ]

Hey, first of all, you just handed it to me with no instructions! It's not like I've ever worn a dress before then. I did my best, thank you very much.

[ Whatever offended effect he was going for there is absolutely lost by still grinning throughout, considering both getting ready with Hilda and the date itself are fond memories in his mind. That's also why his expression shifts to a smirk as he first eyes Sylvain's profile from his perch and then Hilda next after her fingers wander their way up his sleeve to his collar. ]

By the way, you should ask Sylvain how much he enjoyed the show of all of it coming off.

[ Claude had already shared as much back then, but why not mention it again Whether the path of removing clothing piece by piece results in all of them falling asleep on the bed amidst the forgotten tea and uneaten pastries or something else, he's simply going to enjoy it along the way.

Which is why he sits up without delay after being beckoned to first shed the jacket as requested, and then upon deciding he might as well catch up to Sylvain by undoing the buttons to his shirt one by one. ]

But back to the corset point. I don't think there's anything saying they're limited to under dresses if both of you are saying one's in my future. That could probably be arranged.