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ABRAXAS MODS ([personal profile] abraxasmods) wrote in [community profile] abraxaslogs2023-04-16 08:54 am

MINI-EVENT: CODA - IC EVENT LOG

Mini-Event - Coda

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.



theidlemaiden: (pic#16094983)

[personal profile] theidlemaiden 2023-04-20 10:38 pm (UTC)(link)
[ The heels that Hilda has on that evening afford her more height than she might normally otherwise have, propping up her otherwise tiny 5'0" stature up to a modest 5'3". Another three inches is nowhere near enough to make her visible behind a 6'1" statue person however, especially when she's crouching trying to make herself as tiny as possible.

Is Sephiroth's suggestion incredibly pragmatic and the right thing to do? Yes. Does that mean that Hilda is going to take the suggestion and act on it? Unlikely. She pouts, peering up at him from somewhere behind his arm for the briefest moment before affixing her eyes back on her would be suitor. ]


Because that would just break their heart. Look at them! [ When she motions again they do, in fact, look a little doe-eyed and hopeful as they cast another glance around the dance floor. ] And if I tell them that, it'll probably make it awkward the rest of the evening. Everyone here came to have some fun not feel awkward. I'm just hoping that they'll get hungry or have to go to the bathroom or something instead.
cryptsleeper: <user name="malagraphic"> (ilu u idiot)

[personal profile] cryptsleeper 2023-04-20 10:56 pm (UTC)(link)
I think it would be nice to have something like this in Cadens, actually.

[Alucard is assuming that Viktor has seen Axn's latest piece by this point, and continues on with that particular thought in mind.]

It makes one stop. It'd also be a good way to mark the Hall out. Give people a point of reference.
cryptsleeper: <user name="malagraphic"> (thinkin for a sec here)

[personal profile] cryptsleeper 2023-04-20 10:58 pm (UTC)(link)
[Alucard's ears twitch. One wolfy eye opens, then closes again.

It takes a moment to process the laughter. When that finally happens, the dhampir shifts, changing back into his regular people shape.]


Hm?
nomnoms: (pic#16297430)

[personal profile] nomnoms 2023-04-20 11:31 pm (UTC)(link)
[ It will probably become obvious when the image hits Nanaue's mind as he starts blinking furiously at first, looking perplexed - then entranced, then recognition - ]

Wanda.

[ He recognizes her, knows her name - even. Which may or may not be a surprise to Henry. A few more blinks, and he turns his massive head to get a better look at Henry, still gently holding the mug between his hands. ]

You good brain pictures! [ He is nodding, very impressed. ]

Me make too.

[ He closes his eyes, and with clear concentration sends Henry:
]
nomnoms: (pic#16297431)

[personal profile] nomnoms 2023-04-20 11:42 pm (UTC)(link)
[ An angel was the poor, unfortunate friend that showed him how to get there. It was not without some biting involved, and it's possible Nanaue may have been seen in the Horizon 'sky' hurtling like a shooting star....

But it's okay! ]


Pink. [ he agrees, nodding. He will listen for the music. People don't know but he has excellent hearing. Nanaue bobs his head and says a little loudly: ] Party dance!

[ He still wants to party. He actually got an invitation for one! He's very excited for it.

Oh, but she asked something - ]


Me make special place. Need practice. Make food! [ His mouth widens into a very sharp and toothy smile. He can make already dead things pretty easy, but he wants to make living things too... ]
itookashot: (KY_200)

[personal profile] itookashot 2023-04-20 11:48 pm (UTC)(link)
"Easy to overlook looking like that? Absolutely not." Jesper is as free with compliments as he is with smiles. At 6'3 and lean as can be, he can strike quite a poise, but his best friend Inej is tiny so he's used to slouching and being less of a beanpole.

He salutes her back with his own glass. Jesper is an expert at body language reading so he can tell the dress isn't quite her comfort level, but she does look great in it. "You'll learn to appreciate these types of things. For every crazy thing that happens, we get a party here and there. Wait until you get to go to a Horizon party at Julie's. She goes all out for her Earth holidays."
soothsighs: (☆ just call me little)

[personal profile] soothsighs 2023-04-21 12:06 am (UTC)(link)

( Urianger chuckles through another sip of champagne — his own this time — already feeling a little looser for the bubbles making their way to his head. He shouldn't have more alcohol than this (he is, after all, a sloppy drunk), but the drink is crisp, refreshing, and is doing a fine job of taking the edge off what might have otherwise been an overwhelming evening. )

Aye, these geriatric limbs will surely manage another dance ere they give up on me for good.

( He replies, shaking his head at Thancred's tongue-in-cheek dramatics about his age. It is a fond reminder of that day in Lakeland, when they were bid to rest their bones by the water's edge, and a curve of nostalgia touches his lips as he thinks of Ryne, of Y'shtola, and those they were able to help during their stay in the First.

... And speaking of the First.
)

Mayhap I have suffered too long without the playful machinations of my diminuitive friends to oversee, but I feel a game of sorts to be in order. Tell me: what if I were a stranger to thee?

( Urianger plus champagne plus nostalgia is ... an interesting cocktail, or so it would seem! He tilts his head just so as he looks down at Thancred, evidently amused by his own suggestion, and he takes a step back before offering his hand to be taken. )

Full glad would I be to dance with a dear friend, but I would fain sample the Thancred Experience for myself.

thedevilwhorose: » hallucination (lay peacefully)

Lucifer | The Devil | Thorne

[personal profile] thedevilwhorose 2023-04-21 12:10 am (UTC)(link)
A. Execution

Who needs a party when you've got ritual sacrifice. [There is a morbid curiosity to Lucifer's presence here. Oh, he very much just wants to make sure that woman is decimated, certainly.

But he makes no offering and will not participate in any of the end, a continued sign about how he feels in terms of the gods.]



B. Hayle Streets

There's likely a 50/50 Thorne Summoned split taking in the sights and then the other half casing the joint, as it were. Casing all of Hayle. Finding its shadows, its dirty secrets, what makes it different from Thorne and Nott.

They always have to consider their options after all.

But there is less darkness than Lucifer would expect surface-level, which raises his nerves more than he'd like. Every city has its darkness, so where does this one's lurk if not out in the open?

Still, Lucifer is out and about. He may welcome a compatriot to eavesdrop with or hone in on any recently-kidnapped Summoned off by themselves and stick to them like glue, clearly displeased they're exploring alone.


C. Gala

Lucifer has in fact dressed up in a new outfit for the occasion, clearly taking some enjoyment from it.

He hasn't switched his table at the feast so he'll engage and talk to anyone with the "high fortune" of sharing his presence.

He's in good enough a mood that while Istredd's had the first dance with him already, Lucifer's willing to dance with anyone else. He's keeping apprised of the local officials, but he's up for having a good time, a night and day difference to his attitude in the last month.
thedevilwhorose: (but you don’t seem to know)

do not perceive

[personal profile] thedevilwhorose 2023-04-21 12:33 am (UTC)(link)
[Since when the hell is there a giant shark person?

He will not make eye contact. He will not approach. He will not do anything that merits any attention and he stays far, far away from the sharkman.]
itookashot: (KY_79)

gawking for the lols

[personal profile] itookashot 2023-04-21 12:43 am (UTC)(link)
[ Jesper does a triple take when he sees the shark man. He almost automatically raises a hand to wave back at him, very confused. He then looks at his flask and decides he must have put a drugged cocktail in there. Oh well. He assumes the shark is a hallucination from then on so doesn't approach it. ]
thedevilwhorose: (the one that keeps the curtains closed)

[personal profile] thedevilwhorose 2023-04-21 12:46 am (UTC)(link)
He hasn't looked for her since Jack's attempt at being threatening--which only had any impact on Lucifer because honestly he never thought the guy had it in him, not that Lucifer had paid him much mind. He'd agreed at any rate, mostly out of the sheer confusion that had overwrote his senses.

Getting her alone after that wasn't going to be particularly easy anytime soon, so he waited for the opportune moment.

A ritual sacrifice/execution seemed like as good a chance as any.

"Too much?" he asks her, sometime after the mists have mostly receded.
ushiri: (pic#16104242)

gala

[personal profile] ushiri 2023-04-21 12:59 am (UTC)(link)
Kahlil watches the dancers from off to the side, nursing a glass of wine. As Lucifer breaks from his partner, Kahlil raises an eyebrow at him.

"Well, that was strange."

Okay, maybe a little bit more than nursing. His words aren't particularly biting, for whatever that's worth. More genuinely surprised to see Lucifer on the dance floor.
the_keeper: { Neutral } (56)

[personal profile] the_keeper 2023-04-21 01:05 am (UTC)(link)
"Is anyone sure of that?"

Sabine asks it as she takes slow steps around the edge of the case, two fingers tips tracing where the planes of glass meet. As much as she's studying the art, she's starting a study of this place that several before her have undoubtedly trod. Half of her can appreciate the appearance of time, skill, effort, age, and upkeep of these things, but the rest of her finds it a not entirely enthralling distraction—a well-cloven divide.

Or, more apt, a move she doesn't entirely understand about a world she doesn't either.

"There always seems far more hearsay in most of the answers to questions about the past—" Or any part of the inner working. "—around here."
thedevilwhorose: (unknown the unlit world of old)

[personal profile] thedevilwhorose 2023-04-21 01:14 am (UTC)(link)
Even if they had been particularly biting words he would have reacted about the same, a gleam of his eyes and an overflow of amusement towards Kyle.

He keeps his hands visible for his next words, just in case Kyle takes them as a threat, "Don'thca know? Dancing's just like fighting."
the_keeper: { Neutral } (pic#16363223)

[personal profile] the_keeper 2023-04-21 01:15 am (UTC)(link)
Sabine looked down from the sky at the intruding words to find. Oh. She could not have forgotten this face. (Either of them; false and real.) It was still preferable to keep him bookmarked under 'itty, bitty, teeny, tiny living space' rather than the name that had already led to some interesting discussions about other world theology as patent pending to their own.

There's no blanch to her expression when her gaze settles on him anymore than it had missed it for the spectacle. Neither of them needs reminding of what was said last time. Perhaps, even more for what was not said. It rolled off her tongue easily and quickly, as though this had already been the middle of a debate. "For her, or them, or me?"
Edited 2023-04-21 01:17 (UTC)
sorser: (pic#15108902)

dance

[personal profile] sorser 2023-04-21 01:20 am (UTC)(link)
[And he’s found another partner, or at least another potential partner. Stephen half-turns to see Urianger approaching; the sorcerer has a drink in his hand, raising his brows as the man nears.]

Saw your performance. [-is his greeting, a quirking smile coupled with the words.] Taking a spin around the dance floor to recoup from the light show?

[“Light show” is not meant in a patronizing way, per se, but given Stephen’s acerbic nature in general? It could be taken that way.]
nomnoms: (pic#16297484)

[personal profile] nomnoms 2023-04-21 01:25 am (UTC)(link)
[ The sharkman watches the new friend accept his fish gift and - suck on it? How funny! Slightly confused, he takes the head back, and in a clear answer to how he feels about sharing food swallows it whole. ]

Gentle-man, me. [ He repeats the compliment, staring at the friend's mouth. ]

Shaaarp. [ He reveals his own teeth in a smile. Sharp teeth like him! ]
techmaturgy: (pic#15745005)

[personal profile] techmaturgy 2023-04-21 01:34 am (UTC)(link)
I don't disagree.

[He doesn't consider himself an artist--Viktor is a form-over-function individual. It's not often that he does things like this, for aesthetic or decorative purposes, so he's a little surprised that the reception has been so good. Alucard has him thinking.]

One here, and one in Cadens? Maybe they'll let me give Aquila one, too.
thedevilwhorose: (Default)

[personal profile] thedevilwhorose 2023-04-21 01:56 am (UTC)(link)
"All of the above," he suggests, though he has a feeling she's fine. He hums, and adds, "The ritual itself though, if I had to pick one." He glances up at the sky himself, then back down to the remains of Josselyn Creed's body. He almost wishes someone had interrupted the ritual and put a sniper shot through her. Bullet, crossbow, hell a spellshot would've done it.

Take Solvunn's way of life apart right before their eyes.
satanicpanics: (pic#15737630)

[personal profile] satanicpanics 2023-04-21 02:10 am (UTC)(link)
[ Eddie normally isn’t one to cling to bitter comments for too long, but he hasn’t forgotten that Henry isn’t a particularly musical soul. It doesn’t necessarily upset him or anger him, but it does confuse him. The sheer existence of music makes up a good half of Eddie’s world. He can’t even begin to imagine feeling so mild about it, not forming a strong opinion what he likes, what he dislikes, what he thinks is good, and what he thinks is overrated.

But it’s alright.

Sort of.

It’s not alright at all, really, but it’s a disagreement they’ll just have to deal with, and Eddie smiles cordially and bows deeply all the same.
]

Oh, admit it. You were into it. Don’t tell me you got nothing out of that performance.
satanicpanics: made by <user name="inkonic"> (pic#15853995)

[personal profile] satanicpanics 2023-04-21 02:11 am (UTC)(link)
[ Eddie snorts a little at the loud belch, more amused than anything else. For all intents and purposes, he’s still sort of a kid, and he has yet to grow out of finding belches hilarious. In fact, he probably never will grow out of it. ]

Yeah, uh…thanks, dude.

[ Really, this is more terrifyingly awkward than it is terrifyingly terrifying. How does one talk to a shark? What are their hobbies? Hopes, dreams? ]

So, you, uh…you like Metallica, huh? You ever heard them before today?
the_keeper: { Neutral } (it's blossomed for you)

[personal profile] the_keeper 2023-04-21 02:14 am (UTC)(link)
She takes a moment's consideration, not of his answer but of the genesis before the first asking. She doesn't consider the impetus harmless; for whatever reason, it starts, but the subject is. Harmless. People are whispering in groups, some staying and some fleeing as quietly but politely away as they can.

"To the first, I think that depends on how much of her was still in there." Enough to scream and rant, but obviously taken hard to task in ways far beyond the physical before being brought here.

"As to that—" Sabine swept a glance toward the bones left for children to fingerpaint in blood, a statement they surely didn't understand the full consequences of at all, that shifted only to look upward at the end. A sharp triteness twisted her tone. "—it was a pretty piece of pageantry that at least one person present approved of."

She's seen worse and knows far more beyond that raised bar. But as much could be said of the daughter raised at the rift's edge, just as engaged as her parents in ensuring it stayed closed. That the god on the opposite side of it didn't break in, torturing not one being but every living creature on the planet, leaving them thralls to unimaginable, inescapable pain, never to die only to stay in that state throughout the rest of his eternity.
demoexpert: (FYtB7es)

[personal profile] demoexpert 2023-04-21 02:59 am (UTC)(link)
Wylan knows it's Jesper who appears at his side without even having to look. It's like the air shifts when he's around and Wylan just knows he's there. But then he's handing money over to the merchant and the flute is being placed in his hands before he knows what's happening.

"Jesper," he says, at a loss but also feeling guilty that he spent his money on this. "You don't need- I. You didn't have to buy it for me." He says stumbling over his words.
thedevilwhorose: » hallucination (so realistic so realistic)

[personal profile] thedevilwhorose 2023-04-21 03:04 am (UTC)(link)
With at least one strong psychic attack, likely not much. It's a wonder if Josselyn's so-called gods hadn't taken a portion of her too. She may have just been a withered husk left behind, continuing to fall under the mind's previous directives. Lucifer had been tempted to crush her organs before all this, but with the guards watching and his power back to a flicker, it wasn't worth it.

He knew enough people would tear her apart in whatever way they could; it's why he didn't join in on the initial hunt to find her. He doesn't trust a lot; doesn't even trust a lot of people, but he knew the Summoned would retrieve her. They wouldn't stop until they did.

"Solvunn thinks this fixes their problems," he says idly. They are who he thinks this ritual was for, but it wasn't about penance and whatever nonsense they crowed.

He made no point to participate in any part of the ritual that Solvunn allowed the Summoned to join. He doesn't fault those that did, whether misguided, or seeking some form of clarity, or thinking they were aiding in this macabre justice.

"Put on the blinders so that the other factions look away again, distracted by their petty fights, so that no one sees their struggle."

He watches one last vulture disappear. Did the entity come because of Solvunn's will?

Or did it come solely for Josselyn?

"Hoping to create a smokescreen so that no one sees that Josselyn may've been right."
itookashot: (pic#16375176)

[personal profile] itookashot 2023-04-21 03:15 am (UTC)(link)
"I never get the chance to buy you something, merchling. For once I'm the wealthy one." Well, not wealthy, but he is doing well enough that all of them can live off him modestly. Cadens is no stranger to eventually giving everyone options for jobs. He knows Wylan will get himself something soon. He even has some ideas for him.

Jesper has been very good about respecting Wylan's boundaries and being an excellent friend. Never pushing. Just there. It's a tightrope walk, with all the feelings he has for him still brewing. But one thing Jesper knows extremely well after a year together: Wylan is always worth waiting for.

"It's not a free present, I fully expect you to play for us. Maybe at the inn, people would like that." And it would be good for Wylan too.