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

Lucifer | The Devil | Thorne

[thedevilwhorose]

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.

gala

[ushiri]

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.

[thedevilwhorose]

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."

[ushiri]

Kahlil narrows his eyes slightly at that, an annoying sense of deja vu washing over him. Has he said that to Lucifer? He's definitely said it to someone recently.

Ugh.

He takes another drink from his glass. He doesn't know why he's in a bad mood exactly tonight. Drinking usually convinces him of the opposite, at least for a little while.

"You shouldn't leave your partner waiting too long," he finally says, making a shooing motion with his free hand. Begone divine demon. Shoo.

[thedevilwhorose]

He swipes the glass from Kyle's hand, leaning away just out of reach, side-eying him strangely. This isn't fun if Kyle doesn't rise to the bait. If Kyle tries to get it back he will keep moving.

"He needs to mingle," Lucifer says. Swirls the remaining liquid around in the glass. "I'll rescue him if I must. It's usually very obvious." Not even because Lucifer would be able to feel it. Istredd wilts, simply put. That might come sooner rather than later. It's been... a few months since, well, any of them have been to a large event. If they had a curfew, they'd all be asleep well under it.

He makes a decision and downs the rest of Kyle's drink, setting the empty glass down. "Alright, come on, whatever this is, it's sad." He holds out a hand to Kyle, making a 'come along' gesture.

[ushiri]

There's another flash of annoyance when the drink goes.

How noble of you, is right there, mockingly - right on the tip of his tongue even though he told himself he wasn't going to give Istredd a good natured ribbing, let alone antagonize the being that had his hands around his throat recently. He's not cruel by nature, or an idiot. Usually.

But rather than good nature or good sense stopping him, it's the offered hand and gesture. First, he looks stunned. Then confused. Then he almost laughs, but some self-preservation kicks in at that moment and he grudgingly takes his hand.

"You've really become everyone's white knight."

Okay. So he couldn't stop himself entirely.

execution

[unwings]

[ cas doesn't leave an offering either. they aren't his gods, he isn't asking them for anything, and he doesn't regard them as much more than the demigods of pagan religions from home. even the norse deities were pretty killable by angel standards. by virtue of shuffling crowd, and perhaps some innate instinct to gravitate towards kin, cas finds himself stood between lucifer and michael, hands tucked into coat pockets, watching the unlucky sheep being skinned below. ]

This is considered a ceremony. [ Cas murmurs to correct Lucifer on human traditions, like the one guy who actually read the travel guide before showing up in a foreign country. the joke's gone entirely over his head. ] A party generally requires revelry, dancing, and snacks.

[ there are no snacks present, brother. ]

[familysucks]

As well as a dress code and a curated guest list.

[Michael is not thrilled to see either of them, on the off chance they misinterpreted his silence as an invitation to talk. This is definitely not a party.

He turns a judging eye on Castiel. Lucifer's threadbare grace is no surprise, but while Castiel had been in rough condition the last time he saw him, he'd expected him to be on the mend by now. He should look better, not worse. Truly Castiel possesses unparalleled self-destructive tendencies.]

What happened to you? You look atrocious.

[Michael casts a glance behind him, always aware of the ever-present sensation that he's being watched. Sure enough, there's Jo, doing her best to bore a hole clean through his head with her glare. He pays her no more mind than he did the first time, gaze zeroing in again on Castiel.]

[thedevilwhorose]

[He directs a scoff towards Michael.] What do you know about parties? [Lucifer's unfortunately "had to" attend a few in Thorne whenever they get new Summoned. It's the best way to get a read on them before they've had a chance to settle.

But don't give him the chance for revelry. He will here. Don't tempt the devil, Castiel.

A glance at their younger brother and Lucifer makes a face and shifts just a little as though to avoid risking brushing against his brother.] I cannot for the life of me believe I'm saying this, but Michael's right.

[unwings]

[ uncertain if that question was directed at him or michael (feasibly, could be either), cas looks vaguely affronted, and mutters the credentials of his education. ] Dean and I watched Animal House.

[ there really wasn't any hope in hiding his current state from his older brothers. if michael wanted to, he could've crushed him at any moment, full grace or not, and lucifer's made it clear he isn't interested in fighting. may as well be honest about it.

but cas sure as hell doesn't want Jo overhearing it and panicking. so, he swaps to angel radio, voice begrudging and grumpy. ]

Metatron happened to me.

[ no, he doesn't want to talk about it. ]

[familysucks]

[Michael knows the comment was aimed at him and shrugs it off. He doesn't even like parties, and he doesn't need to have watched Animal House to know it.

(Adam had been more of a horror movie fan, funny enough, despite the whole death-by-ghoul thing.)

In a rare display of emotion, his expression turns surprised—baffled. Castiel is gullible even for a lower angel, but he's a capable combatant. How'd Metatron get one up on him? He answers in the same fashion, silent to bystanders.]

Metatron—the scribe? The bookworm? You were bested by an angel from the clerical division?

[Also, he thought that guy was dead. And, well, by Michael's time...

Michael glances at the display continuing up front, pointing at the sheep's hollowed-out carcass while looking back at Castiel.]

That's you.

[Both in the 'led to the slaughter' sense and the 'scraped clean, just skin left' bit.]

Execution

[restingstitchface]

[Stories. Secrets. Crane malingers at the back of the line, letting strangers stride ahead to draw signs upon stones, wondering about one and all. People who indulged in superstition to protect themselves from similar retribution. People who had refused to watch out of fear, out of awe, out of disgust.

Oh, that's a lie. People who disapproved wouldn't be here, would they?

He is ready to answer that when a stranger's words draws his attention down to earth. Or wherever this place is.]

Quite.

[His voice is calm and considerate; no signs of mirth.]

They say sacrifice is part of life. But I guess some really can't have everything in life by making sacrifices.

[Oh, he wants to laugh about it. But that's not the right thing to do, right?]

[thedevilwhorose]

It's in their nature. [Solvunn? Or humans in general?] Solvunn thinks themselves so different, so separate from Josselyn for her actions, but the root between all of them is there. [He was one of the people who questioned Josselyn before this laughable scene, calling out to gods that--as the immolated creature decreed--may very well no longer be listening.

It was insightful and twisted and maybe in another time he'd have reveled in it.]

[restingstitchface]

[Crane glances over his shoulder, returning his attention to remains that hardly remain at all. His expression is calm and emotionless - neither troubled or entertained.]

Well, people need to believe they are special, chosen by the hand of god.

[He looks back to the stranger.]

Or chastised by it in her case. Perhaps the root of her death was her pride as much as some divine force?

[Pride is a sin. Oh, and he's noticed how this man keeps himself separate from the people, observing them as though they were some kind of animal.]

[thedevilwhorose]

[There was an odd moment where he was set aside with two others, his brothers all finding each other and clustered together to watch the pagan tradition. That could've gone much worse than it did. Well. For Michael and Lucifer it was tolerable. Castiel likely Had Regrets.]

It's what she wanted. [Chosen by the hand of god. Or a god. He thinks about the way she looked at him from her prison cell and makes a face.] It's a useless feat. No god is going to give mortals what they want without a cost greater than what they have. [Solvunn must be wasting away and not even realizing how much they're sacrificing and how little they're getting back]

[restingstitchface]

[Crane glances at those taking spiritual knicknacks - bones of a deceased heretic - and observes them casting ribs and knucklebones into flames. They are all free to participate but he understands there are expectations, various societal pressures to conform.

He returns his gaze to his chattering companion. Comformity had never really held him in its grasp.]

Nobody offers anything for free.

[He emphasises the first word. Gods, mortals. Is there a difference between their behaviours?]

The only beings to truly do so are the animals. But even then...

[Animals have some concept of society. Great apes especially. Do they truly trade freely? He doubts it.]

b

[ordinar]

Wilhelm didn't plan on exploring the city by himself. Since returning to the castle, he doesn't go anywhere by himself, save for the places that would be unspeakably awkward to bring company to.

When he set out today, he was stuck to Elrond's side. Then they found a bookshop, the gravitational pull of which was too strong for the elf to escape. In the ten minutes it took Wilhelm to glance over every row of curiously arcane titles and intricately embossed spines, Elrond had only just begun to browse. Another half an hour ticked away before Wilhelm's boredom led him to the hypothesis that he could circle the block and come back without losing track of his roommate.

It's not like he's really by himself anyway. The streets are packed. Still, he catches himself checking over his shoulder every several paces, spine stiffening and knuckles tensing when someone in the crowd bumps into him.

Lucifer cutting across the crowd, coming toward him, puts him at ease. Wilhelm's eyes light up. Then he sees that the archangel...is not happy. Not that he's ever, like, beaming, but—

"What's wrong?"

[thedevilwhorose]

What's wrong he says like he hadn't recently--or not so recently, from the passage of time--been kidnapped. Lucifer never did find out where'd he'd been snagged from, he just knows it was outside the castle proper. Ambrose was very clear about that distinction.

"What's wrong," he echoes, sounding a little winded, and that's--that's not even an anxiety dumped on him from Wilhelm, lovely, perfect. It's all his own. "We haven't been allowed to this place before. Any of us." He'd like to think his point is clear enough before he adds, "Why're you out by yourself?"

[ordinar]

As Lucifer's worry rolls off of him in waves, surprise touches Wilhelm's expression. Despite everything, he's still amazed when anybody cares enough to check on him. That has less to do with Lucifer, and more to do with himself.

"I'm not out by myself. You're here now."

Matter of fact, with only a pinch of sass. Pushing a hand through his hair, he stumbles into a placating tone to explain, "Elrond was taking too long looking at books. I was just going to walk around the block, I wasn't going to wander too far. Promise."

[thedevilwhorose]

Alright, bonus points for sass. He really doesn't see how Castiel can be so blind. Lucifer had nothing to do with manipulating these kids' personalities. They were all surly, heated-tempered teenagers without his help. He couldn't control them in that regards if he tried.

"I'm here now," he agrees, as though there was a chance he was just going to walk off and leave the kid. That never goes well for either of them. "Everyone and their books," he continues with an eye roll. For all he knows Elrond met up with Istredd then. "I have nothing better to do." He's people-watching and eavesdropping wherever he goes. Wilhelm doesn't need watching over. Probably. He's just overcautious, not distrustful.

[ordinar]

He matches Lucifer's eye roll with a grin. Nothing against books. He probably spends more time reading here than he did back home, just because sometimes there's nothing else to do, and he hasn't got a phone to mindlessly scroll through. But it's the kind of thing he can't stay focused on for too long before his thoughts starts to wander.

"Okay, so, come on." Wilhelm invites him with a motion of his hand, already starting to walk again. Keep up, old man. As they fall into step, his eyes roam the crowded street around them.

"What do you think about this whole gala thing?"

Execution

[chosenfordarkness]

[ The ritual itself is far more excessive than he could have imagined, but watching her befall this doesn't feel quite as satisfying as it would have to have gotten his hands on her. At the very least, there is a finality to it all. ]

A party seems like a consolation prize compared to this.

[ He plans on going through the rest of the ritual, if only because he doesn't really have beliefs in gods. ]

[thedevilwhorose]

[He tilts his head in an odd agreement and grins.]

True. Well, there's still some fun to be had: her acolytes are free. [He laughs, and holds up a finger to 'correct himself.'] Sorry, imprisoned.

[chosenfordarkness]

A waste, really.

[ Imprisoning them isn't going to absolve them of their guilt or their beliefs. Though some of them may crack and think they're reformed, it's only being trapped inside stone walls that makes them that way. Why give them a second opportunity to finish what they started? Without the ringleader, they've been dealt a serious blow, but if they believed in the cause that much, why take the chance? ]

They should have just given them the same treatment and been done with it.

[thedevilwhorose]

If someone doesn't take it in their own hands to end them [consequences be damned] I'll genuinely be shocked. Either way they get out, they'll be hunted. They stay locked down--truly that's the worst suffering.

[It's true Lucifer voted for their swift execution. He wanted them gone, wiped out, a stain of blood smeared behind to the planet. But he also believed that execution was the merciful of the two options.