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

paper stars.

[gynvael]

[ By the afternoon, Geralt's been tidied up a bit. By which he means, Jaskier braided his hair. The rest of him is a work in progress. (Either Julie or Jaskier are searching for a suitable shirt; he isn't certain who or both, but he's content to let someone else fuss with the question of clothes and outfits.)

He finds himself peering through the garden, curious to finally see Jaskier's work after his, mm. Absence. For the past few weeks. It's pretty. Plants and flowers that'd not normally exist in this place. For all that he isn't interested in celebrating, the feast makes for a decent distraction. Can't quite ride off into the desert just yet.

He's stepping around the ladder when—

Geralt catches the falling paper star as a familiar voice rings out. He glances up, glimpsing the flash of pink hair. Pink hair that does not belong to Julie. (This is the second time he's watched a pink-haired woman perched on a precariously tall ladder to hang decorations, which is a curious thing if he thinks about it.)

He holds the star out. ] Hard at work?

[theidlemaiden]

[ Several things happen in rapid fire succession for Hilda: mild panic ebbs into relief upon seeing that no eyes are harmed by a pointy paper star, which is then quickly followed by surprise upon seeing who it is.

They hadn't since each other since their time aboard the Arcanis, but it quickly dawns on her that she had recalled seeing his name on the list of kidnapped Summoned in Sam's domain. It isn't as if they're particularly close, but she still feels a prickle of worry all the same.

Worry is folded under a grateful smile as she accepts the star from him. ]

Hardly working is more like it since I have butter fingers. [ Her eyes glint. ] Cute hair! You should wear it like this more often. Does that mean you're going to the gala tomorrow?

[gynvael]

[ With a couple of weeks behind them, Geralt shows minimal signs of having nearly fucking died. There's a fresh scar that runs up the length of his arm; beyond that, he looks as he had when they spoke on the ship.

Hair aside. ]

It's impractical, [ is the dry response to her suggestion. He steps back and to the side so he can talk to her craning his neck up at her. ] If I fail to attend, I will not hear the end of it from a certain bard.

[ None of them are in a particularly festive mood—though in fairness, Geralt is rarely in a festive mood—but a party is an excuse to drink, and what the fuck have they got to do anyhow? Josselyn Creed has been consumed by a cloud of vultures and the Acolytes are imprisoned. Geralt does not wish to dwell on the fates of those who don't deserve his time. ]

[theidlemaiden]

[ There's only one certain bard that Hilda has recently become acquainted to. There's some level of amusement that sparks in her features as she turns to complete the task she had almost failed to do earlier. ]

Aw, I didn't know you two were so close. But the more I think about it, the more it makes sense.

[ The general energy between them (Jaskier's charisma and Geralt's dryness) seemed to balance each other out in a way that worked - or at least it did in her mind. After all, she had seen a similar dynamic somewhere else back home before.

With the fallen star safely secured, Hilda about to descend back down the ladder when it dawns on her that Geralt is perfectly situated by the box. ]

Were you here to help with the decorations?

[gynvael]

[ Geralt's expression twitches. Not displeased. Inscrutable, more. ] We're friends. Same sphere.

[ Friends for over twenty years now, but that's neither here nor there. Geralt rarely likes to put his relationships into words; likes it even less so when that person occupies a space he would not and has not granted to anyone else.

He tracks the course of her gaze towards the crate at his feet. Then he looks back at Hilda. ]

No. [ The flat reply is accompanied by him picking up the crate of decorations. ] But I can for a price.

[ A joke. Mostly. Wouldn't say no to a drink if she's inclined. Though, knowing what he does of Hilda, he suspects she may have different ideas of what could constitute valuable repayment for a favour. ]

[theidlemaiden]

[ Despite the curt answer Hilda is happy to make her own broad assumptions based on it. Geralt didn't seem like the sort to have a very wide, vast circle of friends so it was probably one of the highest compliments anyone could get. ]

A price?

[ Her eyebrow arches dramatically as it's the most absurd thing in the world. As if she hasn't also jokingly asked for something in return for helping others in the past. ]

I guess I could get you something for helping. [ She hums in thought. Food or drink is the obvious choice and she'd want to eat too after all of this is said and done. But then her eyes flit towards the state of his hand and...oh dear Goddess. ] How about a manicure?

[gynvael]

[ He arches an eyebrow right back. A lightness to the air around him suggests he isn't entirely serious, but that he can be if she'll take it so. Truth be told, were it not Hilda commandeering his assistance, it'd be Jaskier. Or Nadine or Alucard.

The hazards of possessing enhanced strength and allowing himself to be...befriended.

He tilts his head. A what? ] I don't need anything cured.

[ Other than the headache he's undoubtedly inviting upon himself by agreeing to any of this in the first place. He bends to pick up one of the crates on the ground—a thing he assumes she needs to complete the decorations. ]

[theidlemaiden]

[ It isn’t Hilda’s style to simply ask outright for help. Not usually at anyway. Sometimes people didn’t get that she was trying to ask for help and she had to resort to asking point blank in the end so really, that’s the headache that Geralt was missing out on.

As it stands however she motions to his hands.

Are you sure about that? Your hands say otherwise — they’re tragic! [ And then by way of explanation — ] It’s something you do for your hands to take care of them. We’ll trim your nails down, your cuticles, and we could even give them a little colour if you want.

[gynvael]

[ A long stretch of silence passes. Geralt is still gripping the crate, but he's ceased trying to give it to her, as though he has foregone all other actions to process what she's saying. (She sounds like Jaskier, which probably says something Geralt will not be examining at this time.)

A little colo—

He sighs. ]

Hilda. You realize I kill things. [ He finally completes the motion of holding the crate out to her. His mind briefly flashes back to Sam's struggle with the informal formal invitations. ] I haven't even got all ten nails.

[ He may have torn one or two off between the abduction and the escape on the mountain. It's fine. Nails grow back. ]

[theidlemaiden]

[ Despite appearances, there is no limit to the silliness that Hilda will participate in. His lack of nails had not gone unnoticed and had actually been a part of her 'tragic' comment so when he points it out she doesn't miss a beat. ]

Well no one said that you had to have all ten nails to wear nail polish. And I know plenty of people who kill things that still take the time to take care of their hands. [ Okay, maybe like a grand total of four not including herself but it should still count for something!! ] The two aren't mutually exclusive.

[ She reaches for the crate, grabbing another large paper star and gets to tying. ]

[gynvael]

[ Fair enough. Geralt cannot argue that point. When he relents, it's clear he's not unused to ultimately letting people do whatever the fuck they want with his appearance, where these parties are concerned. ]

All right. But only because Jaskier has already coerced me into florals.

[ He holds the string up to keep it from tangling the ankles of passersby. Geralt does not dislike dressing up so much as he dislikes the effort required to choose and coordinate and arrange for clothing. If others want to do it for him, he's a bit more amenable.

He passes her another star, switching topics after a minute. ] How's Claude?

[theidlemaiden]

[ Hilda thanks those that pestered and weathered him down for her in this very moment. At the mention of florals, Hilda's eyes light up, mind practically running a mile a minute with the nail art possibilities. She'd have to ask what sort of florals he'd be wearing of course, but -

Ah.

It's not quite a hesitation. It could easily be dismissed as Hilda ensuring that she's got a good hold on the star because she's been taking extra care to ensure that nothing comes across as off when it comes to her and Claude. Her tone certainly doesn't betray that; there's a levity to it as there always is. ]

He's back to doing a lot of what he did before. You never would have thought that he went through anything awful. [ Suddenly she seems very intent on tying this new star just right. ] But I think he's doing that on purpose.

[ More like she knows he's doing it on purpose. She gazes down towards Geralt, worry reaching through her expression. ]

Did you run into him down there?

[gynvael]

[ Geralt grows quiet, watching. For a time, he's silent. He isn't close with Claude, but he likes him, and he knows Claude went out of his way to help most of the others. ]

Mm. Hard not to. [ The pit wasn't exactly large. Just large enough they weren't crammed atop each other, which he supposes is one blessing. They were all witnesses to each other's trials. ] I found his party of five after they escaped. He helped heal my arm.

[ For which he appreciates, though it was their conversation that's left him lingering on the things Claude had said. He imagines Claude is much like him. He hasn't spoken about it to anyone, either. Perhaps a bit to Jaskier, but...for the most part, he's also returned to life as normal. What else is there to do? ]

He'll talk to you in time.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Hilda lets out a little laugh at her own expense. ]

Right, silly question.

[ Claude, unsurprisingly, had told her none of that - and it sounded pretty tame in comparison to what she had heard from others who had been kidnapped. At Geralt's reassurance, she's lulled into her own silence. A rarity from her, really. Silence is probably better than having a jumbled mess of thoughts that would make little sense and land as borderline annoying to the man.

Eventually she swallows the bitterness that threatens to rise as she starts to make her way down the ladder to shuffle it over to the next tree. ]

He doesn't have to tell me. I'd just prefer that he talks about it to someone instead of bottling it up. There aren't as many things he has to worry about here but I worry about him all the same. Super rude of him to make me do that. [ But speaking of coping and worry - ] How have you been handling it?

[gynvael]

[ Circumstances do have the tendency to sound tame when coming from Geralt. He prefers not to dally over the gritty details. Serves not much purpose.

A nod—a wry twitch to his lips at her remark. Then the conversation turns on him, and he blinks once.

He makes a soft noise. Reaches out to steady the ladder as she climbs back up. ] Moving on. Same as any other time.

[ His version of fine is less a matter of putting on a mask; it's simply that nothing has changed for him. He's slept like shit for the past several decades; what difference does it make now? The shadows take different forms, perhaps, but the darkness they cast is the same.

He's learned to live with them. He doesn't really know how to be any other way. ]

[theidlemaiden]

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

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

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

You mean things like that have happened to you before?

[gynvael]

[ It is, at least, a familiar pattern of interaction. He understands it well from years of being Jaskier's friend, a man who takes being told to fuck off as encouragement.

He gives her the last set of paper stars. ]

After a century, you're bound to encounter most things. [ The answer is dry, casual, like he's explaining that he has indeed tasted an exotic fruit before. ] Religious fanaticism was new, though.

[ That bit has not happened to him yet. Abducted by god-fearing zealots. Suppose he can mark that one off the list. ]

[theidlemaiden]

A century?

[ Wow, Geralt. You can't just drop that kind of bomb on a girl. She almost drops paper star in her hand as she looks down at him in some measure of disbelief. Decorum says it's incredibly rude to show your surprise at someone's age but she hadn't been expecting that. ]

I mean, uh, you don't look a day over 40!

[ Even with the white hair and the vibe of a man who needs a long vacation. But right. Decorating. Not focusing on the age thing. ]

Honestly I was kind of hoping to leave the religious fanaticism back in Fodlan. At least they didn't have a fixation on mushrooms.

[gynvael]

[ Mm-hm. ] We're long-lived.

[ Wait—all right, Geralt prefers to think he looks somewhere in the mid-range of one's third decade, but at least she hasn't observed that he appears close to his sixties. Unlike certain other interactions in the past.

He makes a vague sound. ] Neither did ours. Though a taste for conquering leaves something to be desired.

[ Not that Nilfgaard would consider themselves religious fanatics, but Geralt's encountered a few of their soldiers and there is certainly a level of zealousness in the things they have said and done. Call it gods or prophecy, the outcome remains the same. ]

[theidlemaiden]

We, like werewolf we?

[ Her tone betrays more curiosity than nervousness as she turns back to continue tying the stars to the tree.

The Arcanis feels like years ago instead of months, but she hasn't forgotten the assumption she had made about him. The people need to know! (Her. She's the people.) ]

Were they something you had to fight too?

[gynvael]

[ Werewolf what? Geralt frowns. ] I'm not a werewolf.

[ In true Geralt fashion, he also does not clarify what he is, instead adding one of the paper stars to a lower section of the tree. This is the second person who's mistaken him for a werewolf and he truthfully cannot even say it's unexpected.

In any case. ]

Yes and no. [ He shrugs a little. ] Clashed with their soldiers here and there. But it wasn't my war.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Unfortunately Hilda isn't entirely familiar yet with what 'true Geralt fashion' means yet. She waits a beat half expecting him to say something but when he doesn't and he simply moves on a mildly incredulous look settles onto her features. ]

Sounds like you got more involved than you intended though.

[ And then a beat later - ]

Also you can't just say that you aren't a werewolf and not say what you are.

[gynvael]

[ Isn't that how it often goes? Geralt grunts, noncommittal, vaguely in the affirmative.

More and more, he's accepted it is impossible to stay uninvolved if he wants to keep hold of the people he's given space to in his life. ]

A Witcher. [ He leans back against one of the tables nearby, now that he's relinquished the final paper star to Hilda. Tragically, it means she's liable to drag him off to do...whatever the fuck she intends to with his hands (nails?), but he did agree and Geralt does not walk back on his word. ] Enhanced and raised to kill monsters.

[ A concept which exists in other spheres, he's learned, but nothing quite the same. He's not met another like him: taken from childhood, taught to live amongst the humans but not as one of them. ]

[theidlemaiden]

[ Well that puts the werewolf theory to rest. A part of her is a little disappointed that that's the case, but then again, she's never heard about Witchers before.

She makes quick work tying the last star up into the tree before scampering down, a little furrow on her brow. It has more to do with processing what he's telling her than the physical work. By the time she's scampered down the ladder and joins him at the table, she still hasn't quite figured out what to say in response to that. There's nothing quite like what he described in Fodlan, at least not that she's aware of but the thought of if there were, of people being experimented on churns her stomach.

Geralt seems largely indifferent, but then again he's had at least a century to come to terms with it. After a beat she pipes up. ]

I know it's probably been a while, and I'm sure you've come to terms with it but I'm sorry that you had to go through that all the same. I can't even begin to imagine what that must have been like or what you went through. But I hope that it at last gave you the power to take care of the people you care about the most.

[gynvael]

[ Enhanced can mean many things, though after what Claude has told him about Lysithea, he supposes he can't be too surprised Hilda's mind goes towards the most obvious interpretation. She isn't wrong.

He pauses, then finishes picking up the crate, now empty of paper stars. ] It's what it is. We've all been through shit.

[ At least he survived his. Others were not so fortunate. He doesn't like to think of what could be; time does not turn back, and he no longer knows what the answer is regardless. Of what he would have been. A druid, like Visenna? A foolish young man, running off to find adventure and knighthood like he'd dreamed of as a child?

What paths he could have taken, they died along with the boy he'd once been. ]

Didn't grant me soft hands, though, so you've some work in your future. Where to?