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

[itookashot]

Jesper's been sticking with his Free Cities people who came too, and in truth he barely notices people from the others outside of Wanda. Not as an insult, he is simply very focused on what is happening. And he assumes if anyone knows him, they can interact later. He has finished his popcorn though. It is gruesome, no question about it, and he usually only sees hangings.

Gray eyes dart to the side when he realizes someone was there and recognizes Kell. He sips from his flask, noting that the other man is far more upset about it than he is. Unsurprising. The Crows are a particularly vicious lot underneath their dynamic personalities.

"I did consider tossing something fatal into her head from here with my telekinesis, make it faster. But then I'd get in more trouble than I'm already in." Jesper on the whole likes to kill people fast. He's been doing it for weeks. Torture only happened for specific purposes, but he did shoot a lot of people in the knees to keep them from escaping. It hasn't been a time for mercy.

He offers Kell the flask. It is of fairly strong liquor, something similar to whiskey. "After what she did to you, Kell? Sympathy isn't on my mind."

[blackeyedprince]

Kell accepts the flask, wincing only a little at how strong is the alcohol inside it. It helps though. Burns through the acid that had crept up his throat.

"It isn't on my either. Don't get me wrong. I want to know that she's done and gone. I want to able to leave my room after dark again. This spectacle? It's excessive, and it does not reassure me one bit. I doubt it's even for us."

He takes another swig from the flask before returning it to Jesper.

"It's for this thing, whatever that was, that ate her."

Technically, the vultures ate the remains. Picked it all clean. But they were no ordinary birds, they belonged to the shadowy creature, they did their part and left with it.

[itookashot]

Jesper's heart softens hearing Kell admit that he hasn't felt safe to leave his room after dark. That her death will help him with that. He reaches out with his hand and runs it along Kell's back gently, comfortingly. Jesper is always kind to his lovers, he cares about them for more than sex, Kell included.

"Their gods, yes. I don't know what they are in truth, some kind of supernaturally powerful creatures. Might as well be called gods."

Jesper doesn't know what real gods would be anyway. Surely they're all basically that as a definition. He has no religion or anything remotely like it, which makes it very easy to shrug and accept everything about this at face value. As if he would be foolish to doubt what they just saw in front of their eyes.

"Solvunn's full of creeps. She's not going to be the last one." Maybe the last one (for now) that will try to take them. But not the last zealot. Look at the execution. "But she's dead, love, and you're not."

[blackeyedprince]

It's frankly embarrassing how much he leans into this touch. Kell likes to think he's pretty self-sufficient. That he can handle whatever life throws at him. That he can deal with problems, eliminate threats, navigate his way out of any situation. He doesn't feel like that right now. As much as he deluded himself in the beginning that the physical wounds were the only in need of healing. It's not true.

"Here I thought Thorne was the worst that could happen to me. Now I'm glad I didn't end in Solvunn." Kell shrugs at the reassurance. "So I keep telling myself, maybe one day I will believe it's enough."

It's not to dismiss Jesper's kindness, far from it. What does help him, even makes him smile a little, is exactly Jesper's unexpected kindness. They don't know each other, not really. One steamy night on a ship, memorable as it was, can't count as much. Even that feels like ages ago. The memories are beautiful, but Kell has doubts if he's still the person capable of such things. He'd want to, but he also fears that three weeks in the murder cave did break something fundamental within him. Something he'd never recover. Left him with nightmares choke full of decomposing corpses and debilitating fear of dark, empty alleys. No amount of dead Acolytes can cure that.

[itookashot]

Jesper moves his hand from Kell's back and simply puts his arm loosely around the redhead's shoulders, tugging him close to his side. A sideways hug, basically, and he makes it seem so casual and easy. Affection always is for him, as Kell might remember from the time they flirted before it became sex.

"Don't rush yourself. If there's anything I've learned, it's that trauma can't just be willed away. It'll come back in the worst ways."

That is how he sees what happened with Mat. He feels very guilty about it, and at this point hasn't said a word to Mat since their break up. Jesper would normally say he is not the type of person who would act that way or say those things, but he was at the end of his rope and some of his own trauma reared its ugly head at him. All that time he pushed it away didn't matter.

"I promised Rhy I would get you back. He was going to the island, I was going to the mountains. I didn't know at the time who his brother was." He only figured it out later. Jesper feels a little bad because he tries not to be tacky like having sex with siblings, but it's not as if he could know. "I'm glad I did though. I'm glad you made it."

i am sorry for the wall of text, jesper just poked the beehive

[blackeyedprince]

Kell doesn't shrink away from the hug. He needs the reassurance it provides. He even manages something of a weak smile. But then it all fades away, his shoulders stiffen, and he looks away, when Jesper mentions Rhy and his own promise to him.

"Was it very disappointing to find out it was me?"

It's not what Jesper has said, but it's what Kell hears. That's the other thing he also said. Hurt comes back at you at the worst possible moments. It skews your perception, twists memories, showing a cracked mirror to what's real.
And it's exactly this. Right here.

None of this would have happened if you knew. Nothing will come out this now that you do.

Kell doesn't say this out loud, but it's enough that he thinks it. That's his truth. He's always the second choice. Honestly, who would have chosen him over Rhy? He wouldn't have chosen himself. He loves Rhy. More than anything or anybody, more than his own life. Nobody understands what it really means when he says that. Nobody understands the totality of it. How it felt to see the endless parade of Rhy's lovers and have his own love and desire go unrequited. Know, that he'll never have it returned.
They're on much better terms now. Even with their bond broken. In that sense, getting summoned was the best thing that could have happened to him.

While this is all great, it doesn't help for his second problem. One that's unique to this place. Does not make him feel less of a leper. He had his first glimpses of it with Lila. That as much as he loves Rhy, he might like to get involved with other people. He knows, always knew, that Rhy has needs he just can't meet. He doesn't have a problem with him having those needs met outside of their ... entanglement. As long as he's not left out in the cold in the process.

He didn't expect himself to have such needs. That having them met could involve other people too. Here lies the problem, though. As soon as they know he's Rhy's brother, nobody would touch him with ten-feet pole. Especially, if they were involved with Rhy first, and many were. Out of courtesy for Rhy, out of Saints know what. Suddenly, Kell is out of bounds. That leaves him with very little choice. Of those, that he feels safe considering. He's not blind, he knows that some of the ladies and gentlemen that frequent Winking Cauldron don't come there for tea. That's part of his job. He's also not stupid nor desperate enough yet to try his chances with anyone who's not a Summoned themselves.

To have to cross-out Jesper off his list now hurts. More than he thought it might. Kell thought what they had was special. As much as he was conflicted about his own role in it, what he did, what he said, he was happy it happened. But apparently it wasn't special enough. Nothing really is when compared to Rhy.

[itookashot]

Kell is someone who more than once has surprised Jesper with his dramatic response to something fairly innocuous from Jesper's point of view. It reminds him a little of Kaz, although Kaz simply suppresses it and slinks away until he can handle it. Or never, in the past, but he is getting better at it now.

"I'd like it if you didn't assume the worst or put words in my mouth, Kell. I'm really not that kind of a guy."

Not the kind to dismiss someone, not the kind to be indifferent. Jesper is a much more direct person, which is why he just gently rebukes him, rather than internalizing it. He does understand that sleeping with both brothers is probably not a good idea. It's clear from Kell's reaction they are not going to be able to share comfortably, which is fine. No one should be in a situation that makes them close up like this.

"Rhy's my friend. We had a few threesomes with friends we have in common. They were fun but we haven't really gone deeper." Mat, Wilhelm. The person in question being more of the middle of the triangle than Rhy and Jesper doing it only for one another. Jesper is direct, he isn't going to mince words here. He's saying it all like he's talking about the weather, a staple in his life, just how it is.

"Rhy won't really care about me preferring you over him, we're not serious enough for it to be a problem. But if you want to keep having sex with me, you're going to have to say so."

[blackeyedprince]

That's how he would normally react. Try to play that things are just fine or simply storm off, but the pit has broken something within him. Left him with precious little control over his most self-destructive tendencies. So no one thing is really innocuous. Everything, down to the smallest details, can become the fodder for his dark thoughts.

"But I am an expert at expecting the worst."

Sarcasm might not be the best answer, but isn't it just another of his defence mechanisms? He has so many of them. And what for? That's his problem. He assumes too much, and what he does consistently follows a familiar pattern. One where he has the most too loose and the least to gain. He did it before. Did with practically every single person he cares about. Starting with Rhy.

"I'm not jealous. I can share." The way he states it as a simple fact is not different from the directness Jesper describes his relationship with Rhy. "I know he likes other people, I don't see an issue with that... I just..."

Even less issue now than ever. The truth, the ugly unpleasant truth, is that Rhy is not the problem, he is. All too afraid to acknowledge the fact he can have what he wants, that there will be people wanting to offer him just that. All too eager to dismiss even those state that plainly to his face. Because he fucking knows better.

Kell shudders. He's about to do the one thing he hates most, explain himself. Because Jesper was honest with him, he deserves at least the same.

"I just assumed what we had on the ship was an one-off. That you won't be interested in more. This was just an experiment. The occasion was perfect for it. So even if I wanted more, I didn't reach out. And then I got kidnapped."

How he was able to convince himself after such a fabulous night that it was somehow not good enough? Simple. He wanted it too much, and he's so used to not getting things he wants so strongly that he'll let go preemptively to spare himself the misery.

Kell looks up, raises his hand to touch Jesper's cheek, fingers tracing the line of his jaw.

"But I want to have sex with you, Jesper. And even more, I want to do unspeakably awful things to you while we're having sex."

Saints! He so much does. Even saying those things out loud is enough to raise his heart rate. Even now, in the most inappropriate circumstances, Kell has to force himself to resist the urge to tighten his grip.

[itookashot]

Kell really reminds him of Kaz in that moment, expecting the worst, of course. Jesper does think that as a sunshine personality type of guy, he does tend to attract serious people who need to get out of their head. And he has the recipe for that with his quick smile and mischievous eyes. He doesn't mind that, it's been his way forever, but it would be a mistake to think that's all he is.

Jesper listens to him, raising an eyebrow when he mentions he assumed it was a one-off, now that is always possible. "Personally, despite what I seem, I'm really not into one-night stands. I like to get to know my lovers." He is a player in the terms of how many he has going at once, but he never lies to them, and he never hides who he is.

He smirks when Kell touches his cheek, knowing all too well what kind of spell he has the redhead under. That's what happens when someone gives you something few can. But he reaches up to snag his hand and pulls it down, although he doesn't knock it off. He holds his hand instead. "Darling, we're at an execution. As much as I love the idea of public sex." And he does, ask anyone. "It's a bit gauche."

He smiles though and keeps his hold on Kell's hand, tracing a finger along his palm. "As for Rhy, what I meant to say is, I don't have any interest in fucking siblings. No matter how fine you say you are with 'sharing.'" With that he is absolutely putting quote marks around 'sharing.' "But he won't mind if our occasional threesome ends. I would much rather hear about your unspeakably awful things. Maybe in my Horizon?"

AKA, Jesper is making it clear that he is picking Kell. Not that Rhy would mind, they've always been chill with each other, maybe even finally becoming friends more than anything else. He doubts he'll mind that Jesper's interest has turned to his brother, who can give him some things he wouldn't ask from anyone else.

[blackeyedprince]

Sanct! This man is going be the end of me!

Kell shoots Jesper a horrified glance of the you-know-i-did-not-mean-that-you-menace sort. Right after he looks around to nervously check if anyone has heard them, or at all noticed. He tried to keep his voice low. What he said was only for Jesper. His last declaration might have been inappropriate given time and space - it made sense in context - but so was Jesper's response. No, actually, Jesper's response was levels above inappropriate.

"I didn't mean here and now."

Alright. Maybe now - or some time from now, a long as it's soon - doesn't seem like an entirely bad proposition, but certainly he did not mean here. Contrary to the evidence he has just presented with his own behavior, Kell has some degree of common decency. Usually, enough to not be eating snacks at an execution as if it was a spectacle.
He quickly realizes to his own horror that if Lila were here, she most likely would have been casually eating popcorn too. And she would most likely love Jesper. Same attracts the same. Saints, why is he always finding himself people to give him heart attacks?

Kell doesn't get to wallow in that trail of thought for too long. Honestly, it's infuriating that all Jesper has to do get his undivided attention is to touch him the right way. The words get through, but it will take time for their meaning to truly sink in. Kell swallows hard. Rarely is he ever chosen over someone else. Let alone his perfect brother. Beloved, adopted brother. Still perfect.

"H-Horizon is fine."

[itookashot]

The look Jesper gives him back is pure mischief, smirking, he absolutely knows how inappropriate and bad he's being. He also knows from their one night together that Kell secretly loves that about him. He is shameless and he also doesn't care if anyone heard. He's here with a drink and popcorn, there are worse things than flirting with a cute boy during an execution.

This is the first time Jesper has had to pick between lovers as usually sharing has been fine, but he is serious about not bringing in the drama of familial relationships into this. He looks forward to being Rhy's friend, they barely got to know each other to this point, so it would be good to know him as more than a good threesome partner. Kell is offering him something unique. It's an easy choice in the end.

Jesper puts his hand into his jacket and pulls out a ring that would look very familiar to Kell. He made it for him that night and told him to keep it. Jesper has a dozen hidden pockets in this jacket, it's actually Durast made and therefore very complicated. And he keeps so many things in there. This included. He winks at him, before hiding it back in his jacket. No, Kell, he hasn't forgotten you. Not for a second.

"I have a little cabin with a turquoise roof, next to my shooting range." Jesper sips from his flask and then offers it to Kell again with a raised eyebrow. "Later tonight, maybe?"

[blackeyedprince]

The horrible, embarrassing thing is that yes, Kell indeed does love it when Jesper behaves so carelessly nonchalant. With complete disregard for social norms or what people might think of him, of them. He does have a thing for rule breakers. This is nothing new. What is, is his own reaction, the strength of it, the immediacy. It can't all be Jesper's captivating persona.

There's a flash of recognition when Jesper pulls out of his pocket the very ring that Kell made for him on the ship. Surprise too, since he did not expect Jesper to keep it. It's just a silly little thing. A flash of something else, that doesn't belong here, and yet it arises the very moment Kell looks at the ring. He can't stop red creeping up his cheeks when Jesper winks at him, nor does he even want to. It's desire mixed with annoyance, and a dash of sadness, when Jesper puts it away. Desire, for the memories this sight brings. Annoyance, because did that little bastard just winked at him right in front of everyone, with whatever is left of Jossellyn's mutilated corpse in full view? He sure did. Sadness, because of the irrational urge to touch it lest he won't believe the thing is real. That Jesper really kept it.

Kell takes the alcohol gladly. Not anywhere near modest in the amount he drinks before returning the flask. Saints! For what he's about to say? He really needs it.

"Sounds nice." he comments in a flat voice. The cabin and all. Sounds cozy. "It will sound even nicer after I fucked you on every surface there; horizontal or otherwise." The contrast between his words, and the way he looks and speaks while he utters them cannot be more jarring. It's entirely intentional. Kell's face has barely changed expression from the battered anguish he has shown since the beginning of the execution, save for the criminally traitorous flush it now displays.

Kell shivers. Now that he said it, the place feels even more morbid. A ritual fire is being lit on the altar. The ceremony progresses with the Summoned being invited to take part. Kell doesn't plan to accept the invitation, nor even linger any longer. If not for his chance meeting with Jesper, he'd regret coming here at all.

"I think I had enough of this spectacle." He says as he gently extricates himself from Jesper's embrace. "See you later. You better have the evening free."

Kell leaves for the portal before anyone notices that he is now burning full beetroot, and gets a completely wrong idea about him from that. Saints! This man! During a public execution! What did I just do?!! He both hates and loves what Jesper brings out in him.

[itookashot]

[continued here]