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

[philancer]

[ There's less left buttoned than when this evening started, for sure. For as nicely as he could clean up for events like this, he really had a much larger preference to be relaxed and comfortable. Probably why his school uniform had never been anything resembling the neat and tidy of several of his classmates. Instead, he was often untucked and maybe partially unbuttoned, and tonight seemed to have already been going the same way.

But he doesn't pull away when Claude sits up and starts tugging at his shirt, a smirk twitching about the corner of his lips as he bites back a laugh and waggles his eyebrows at him. ]

If you wanted to get me naked, all you had to do was ask, you know.

[ A pause, as he shoots Hilda a fully-formed smirk now and a flirtatious wink. ] Although I'm not sure our darling Hilda's sensibilities are up to that. Look how red she is. She might actually combust if you're not careful. Especially because if I start losing clothes, the rest of you need to as well. It's only fair.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Hilda realizes her mistake belatedly. And by belatedly, it's really the moment the Claude teases her about it. The innocent look is enough to draw her embarrassed ire with her mouth forming an appalled 'o'. Before she has the chance to launch herself at him however, he's sitting up to reach over her so he can begin undressing Sylvain.

Seeing a half naked man isn't out of the ordinary for her. Specifically it isn't her first time seeing Sylvain naked from the waist up and it certainly hasn't gotten old. Her eyes trail appreciatively over his defined, exposed chest in spite of how red her face is before flitting back to his smirking face with a stuck out tongue. ]

When did you suddenly start caring about fair and rules?

[ That being said, even she knows that her capacity to stay in the dress for any longer is coming to a close. As much as she loved it, she wanted to be comfortable now more than anything else in this moment. But she's not about to just do as she's told. Now that hardly seems fair. ]

If we're undressing, Claude has to first.

[godshattering]

Hey, we'll get to me in good time, but I did say Sylvain has to go first. Even if he's already mostly taken care of his shirt to begin with, but it still counts.

[ Claude's going to ignore that he's complying with Sylvain's teasing in an indirect way by continuing on with said shirt removal. But considering he didn't miss Hilda appreciating the view - something of which he's been doing plenty himself - he sees no reason to stop with tugging the fabric the rest of the way down and off Sylvain's shoulders if the other man allows it. ]

Though I think the two of us - [ with a wave of a hand between himself and Sylvain - ] probably win when it comes to losing layers since we have more of them and you have... [ now with a glance at Hilda's dress, even if it's for comedic effect rather than reality, ] one. Unless your goal is to get us both out of everything first?

[ Something he's not opposed to since he'd meant it about changing into the pajamas packed away in his bag, but better to give Hilda the control there since Claude's also pretty sure he can get Sylvain to play along with undressing based on what he'd already said. ]

[philancer]

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

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

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

[theidlemaiden]

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

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

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

[godshattering]

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

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

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

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

[philancer]

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

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

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

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

[theidlemaiden]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[godshattering]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[philancer]

Do I look blind to you? Who wouldn't have enjoyed that show?

[ While Hilda's fingers move upwards to tug at Claude's collar, Sylvain lets his join in to help, but moving lower instead. Unfastening the lower buttons on Claude's jacket, he playfully lets his finger slip beneath the hem and skim whisper-light against the taut planes of Claude's stomach, skin on heated skin. He shifts finally, until he can sprawl behind Claude now, arm continuing his "help" from behind him.

It also lets him prop his chin on Claude's shoulder and wink at Hilda now that they have the other man somewhat sandwiched between them. ]

Hear that, Hilda? I definitely think that should be something in all our futures.

[theidlemaiden]

To be fair, I think even a blind person could enjoy it. You know, just in other ways.

[ Namely touch, but she feels like she can leave that unsaid especially as her eyes flit towards what Sylvain is doing in that moment.

With Sylvain taking over in the department of helping Claude out of his clothes, Hilda takes it as her sign to simply sit back and enjoy. Even as Claude's shirt joins the unceremonious pile on the floor, she makes no move to remove her own dress. Instead she sits there, indolently winding a stray piece of hair around her finger while her other hand props her up on the bed. Whether put on or not it's clear to see that her princess tendencies were beginning to show again. It wouldn't be a stretch of the imagination to think that she'd be content to sit there without removing a shred of clothing until she decides to return to her own room. ]

Does that mean you want to wear one too, Sylvain? You could have just said as much when we went shopping that day. [ The curve of her lips hitches a little higher. There's nothing put on in the least about her interest in that particular idea. The smile is stifled the next moment into a pondering expression. ] But I guess that could be arranged if you want. It sounds like I have to do a lot of teaching though - what am I getting out of this again?

[godshattering]

What do you mean what are you getting out of us? Isn't getting to admire us in whatever you dress us in enough? I think I heard that you get to choose what it is in there somewhere.

[ Claude's careful to say this as plaintively as possible, like it'll actually successfully appeal to Hilda's sense of... whatever it is she's looking for, and as if he doesn't know. He does, thanks to both of them playing some version of the bribery game between each other plenty of times over the years, and the grin on his face which seems to have taken up residence there permanently says as much.

That's not going to stop him from obnoxiously smashing his face up against Sylvain's and pointing in a wave between both of them after his shirt departs for the floor. ]

We're prize enough even before any corsets get involved here. But if you're really asking for something else...

[ Time to lean forward and regretfully somewhat leave Sylvain's embrace to reach for her ankle. Not to let his hand rest there, however, but instead to run a couple fingertips up her lower leg at a glacial pace to make sure he has her attention. ]

... then we could probably assist with the dress removal.

[philancer]

And probably more than just mere dress removal.

[ The knowing smirk is both visible and audible in Sylvain’s voice as he shits position once again. Since Claude had shifted out of his reach, he rolls up and around behind where Hilda is perched, letting his hands skim up along one arm, across a bared shoulder, and then down the line of her spine, undoing the fastenings that held her dress in place along the way.

He leans in, pressing his lips to her shoulder as he does so, the kiss a chaste one, but teasing all the same. ]

[theidlemaiden]

[ Silently she does think that that would be a good prize, but she can't just let on that that's enough. Dress up is one of her favourite things in the world, and if she gets to dress up people she knows? Even better. Claude doesn't have to try very hard to vie for her attention - he never has when he's proven to be one of the most interesting people to enter her life, present company included.

Claude's slow touch up and down her leg sends a spark up her body. Her eyes stay affixed on his as her eyebrow slowly raises as if her body hadn't viscerally reacted to it - but it's likely that he knows better. She's acutely aware that Sylvain is on the move too if what he says is any indication. The red head's touch against her bare skin and down her back pebbles her exposed flesh, but she refuses to cast a glance back towards him even when he kisses her shoulder.

She makes no move to help him, but there's no move to stop him either. The tension holding her dress together loosens as he works his way down, slowly revealing the corset that she's worn underneath. ]

I guess we can start with the dress removal. [ Said like it isn't already happening. ] I am curious about what "more" entails though. [ Her eyelashes flutter, doe-like in her ask as she casts a glance from Claude and then over her shoulder towards Sylvain. ] Maybe we could work on my hair after?

[ Her up-do is artfully messy but her ask may be a clue that she may or may not be getting a headache from having it up in a bun for as long as she has. ]

[godshattering]

[ The touch had been a simple one, sort of, except for that he knows exactly what he's doing. It's the sort of thing he would've tested in a meeting, at a war council, wherever just to see what he might get away with. Now's no exception when Hilda's gaze locks onto his in a way he's not keen on breaking. Especially when her eyebrow raises and it's easy to smirk in return in a familiar game long played with each other; that Sylvain's now also here and part of it is a bonus in his mind.

Holding eye contact proves to be a bit difficult when the dress begins to slip away and reveal what's beneath. Much as he'd like to properly appreciate it - not that he isn't already even with the dress still somewhat in the way - there's another weakness Claude has besides touch alone, and it's Hilda's hair. ]

I kinda think that question was more like a command. Take note, Sylvain.

[ He'll leave the other man to the remaining fasteners since whatever temptation to assist was there mere seconds ago evaporated to be replaced with something else. In a move which won't make sliding the dress off all that easier, Claude sits up to continue sliding those fingers along her leg as he moves upward, letting them trail away to the outside of her thigh when he reaches it before letting his hand fall away. He brings both hands up to first tuck the stray strands of hair behind her ears before searching for one pin and then another, carefully loosening and collecting them as he goes for safekeeping later in yet another ritual familiar to him from other nights of this before.

If there's a fair amount of affection visible on his face the whole time, well. He's not worried about hiding it. ]

[philancer]

[ It's a look Sylvain has only rarely seen on Claude's face, an expression so tender that his own movements falter for a moment before he continues what he'd been doing. It's rare the other man lets something be so evident in his expression and that had been enough to catch him off-guard but he's quick to hide it behind a quiet chuckle as he continues kissing his way along the bared flesh of Hilda's shoulders.

Hands ease the fabric of her dress down her torso once it's loose enough to shed, revealing the tantalizing lace hidden beneath it and now he does give a soft groan of appreciation, letting his fingers skim down along the line of her ribs. The thin fabric isn't enough to block the heat of her body - or his fingers exploring. ]

Noted. Definitely noted. [ A pause, before he shoots the man a sly grin over Hilda's shoulder, lips still trailing whisper-light kisses against warm skin. ] You do know how to do that much, right?

[theidlemaiden]

[ If someone stopped to ask Hilda if she had somehow orchestrated this somehow, she'd ask them in return if they thinks she's either Sylvain or Claude - which is really a roundabout way of saying no. Those that know her are aware that she doesn't quite plan that far ahead, preferring to keep her plans to whatever her whims are in the moment.

What wouldn't be a stretch of the imagination however is assuming that she may have been planning this the moment Sylvain's shirt had fallen to the floor. She knows exactly what she's doing by wielding her teasing like an axe. Her calculated show of reluctance to remove her own clothes and take down her updo, all while playing into the knowledge that Claude loved playing with her hair, has all culminated into the thing she had been after in the first place: avoiding doing the work of undressing herself.

...And the attention and company is nice too.

Caught up in mentally patting her own back, she almost misses Claude's affectionate look. When she does see it however it short circuits her brain too, but not in the way it normally does. Thanks to the happy haze of alcohol, she mistakes it for something else, considers it him simply enjoying the time with Sylvain and the chance to take her hair down. Languidly she reaches a hand out to trace nebulous shapes along Claude's bicep, exhaling a quiet, content sigh as Sylvain's fingers trace the curves of her waist. Now that she's the one sandwiched between them, it's impossible to ignore the heat radiating off of them. ]

He's not doing that bad. But if you see him doing something wrong, you could correct him. [ There's a grin in her voice, a fondness there for the two of them that is unmistakable. Her nose bumps playfully against Sylvain's, sweet breath tickling his cheek as she leans back into him. ] After you help me get my dress the rest of the way off that is.

[ It still sits bunched around her hips and will probably take a little bit of shimmying to get it off. Pink eyes lock onto green ones again, mischievous and teasing. ]

Claude might enjoy the show too.

[godshattering]

[ A tsk leaves him at that as he works one more pin loose and a few more tendrils of hair fall. Only a few must be left as he run his fingers through the loosened part of the updo in search of them - and maybe also as an added chance for a vaguest suggestion of a scalp massage when it lasts for all of a few seconds before he's right back to his task with care behind it.

Sylvain gets a grin to match the one given to him considering he's enjoying this all around and that includes the sight of him being cuddled up to Hilda. There's a fleeting thought crossing his mind about the three of them, something undefined there and gone in an instant, and then the last pin being removed means her braid falls. The pins gathered up his hand get placed on the bed then to make sure there's nothing in the way when he runs his fingers through it to undo the plait slowly.

But he does pause when Hilda's gaze flits to his and there's a scoff that leaves him, but it's one entirely for show given the entertained smirk prominent on his face he's also not bothering to get rid of. ]

Might, like you don't already know the answer to that.

[ Whether it reveals too much or not, Claude's already moved on from letting her hair slip through his fingers. Only because there's another goal in mind now as he sits back to tug on the hem of Hilda's dress which only really succeeds in moving the fabric down a bit thanks to more assistance than that being needed. ]

Better than any correction, we could always just have Sylvain show us how it's done.

[philancer]

Isn't that what I've been doing this whole time?

[ Humor is thick in his voice as he slides the rest of Hilda's dress down to pool at her waist, leaving her in only the lacy corset beneath. Which... he's actually in no hurry to get rid of at the moment, unless she asks him to. He's still busy admiring it.

Instead, he slides his hands down under her ass - and under the dress, lifting her hips off the bed with a smirk at Claude over her shoulder. ]

You can handle pulling the skirt down and away the rest of the way, at least? This way we won't accidentally rip anything and force Hilda to murder us both.

[theidlemaiden]

[ The release of her hair from the plait feels luxurious. It's not just that though. Claude playing with her hair has never failed to make her feel better when she's at her worst. Although, her hazy brain thinks, she might have to add the feeling of Sylvain's kisses against the curve of her shoulder to that list too. ]

Why would I know the answer to that?

[ The faux-innocence is laid on thick, fully aware that no one in this room will buy it. The expression on Hilda's face only lends to it as she doesn't bother to even look the part of confused damsel. Like her suggestion of a show isn't as thinly veiled as it is. Convincing them of that however isn't the point. The point is that she knows that it will amuse the both of them which is the real goal here.

As Sylvain's hands roam even further down from her hips to her ass, her cheeks flush slightly at his touch. Thankfully, with Sylvain behind her, Claude is the only one privy to that sight. Managing to keep her facial expression in check somewhat is short lived. Sylvain's warning is met with a pout before giving a light warning elbow back into the redhead and a prod with her toe towards Claude. ]

Don't you dare.

[godshattering]

[ There's a moment where Claude gives Hilda another look - this one intentional, unaware as he is of the prior one, and this one far more knowing to where he's just going to let that speak for him instead of saying anything aloud. It's familiarity again which has the smirk coming back to his face at the teasing over any dresses being ripped here since he's nowhere near drunk enough - he's pretty sure - to have forgotten that as a rule for any time of day. ]

Oh c'mon, I know better than that.

[ Easy then to trail the backs of a couple fingers along one side of Hilda's jaw before leaning forward. It's a move slightly borrowed from Sylvain in that it's a lean in with intent, and it'd take but a second to lean in for a kiss. Something he nearly does, if the pause is anything to go by, but then he slips his hands around to behind Hilda.

And then down, and if it skims a light touch over both of them - even better, and all too convenient, as Claude moves them down along her back. Then fingertips along Sylvain's wrists, and then back to along her hips for the briefest of touches to hook them into the dress fabric like nothing happened at all. ]

See? Nothing to it.

[ It's not a quick slide and isn't one on purpose for the dual purpose of not ripping the dress and for some added slow reveal of the rest of the corset that'd been still concealed beneath it. ]

[philancer]

[ He should have known Claude would start stealing his moves sooner or later. He's too amused at the moment to even be annoyed over it. He watches with a dark gaze as Claude smoothly skims his hands down over both of them, teasing with his touch, before he works at sliding more of Hilda's skirt off, since Sylvain still holds her lifted off the mattress enough now that they can work it out from beneath her together.

Still, he continues trailing slow, lingering kisses against her bare throat and shoulder now, since his hands are very much occupied holding her in place. ]

You're the one with the front row seat, darling. You'd be the first to notice just how much Claude is enjoying this particular show.

[theidlemaiden]

[ Claude's sudden closeness and the trail of his fingers along her jaw has her breath catching in her throat. In that hairsbreadth of a second, she's stock still, definitely under the impression that he'll kiss her. When a kiss doesn't come, a mixture of disappointment quickly followed by amusement washes over her along with the realization that this had been a repeat of a move from earlier.

As the rest of her dress is slowly pulled off her, she leans back against Sylvain's chest, arms lazily looping around his neck to watch Claude work. Finally free of her dress, her body is stretched long, the sheer panels of her corset fully on display along with an expanse of pale skin. Thanks to Sylvain's hands still firmly gripping her hips, her body is pleasantly warm and flushed.

Each press of his lips against her bare skin with Claude watching - for some reason it feels right. Maybe that's the champagne talking. It has to be that because the alternatives aren't things she wants to think about right now.

Eyes trained on Claude, her lips curl languidly as her fingers play with the hair at the nape of Sylvain's neck. A spark of teasing lights up her voice. ]

I can't tell for sure. He's playing coy.

[ Said like she isn't doing the same. Said like she isn't daring him to be less coy – or more. Neither are bad ideas. ]

[godshattering]

[ He'd caught that minor bit of anticipation from her, well aware both of them had to have recognized the move for what it was (Sylvain's) but without any payoff behind it. Yet.

After taking a moment to sort of carefully deposit the dress on the floor where none of them are likely to step on it, he sits back up to survey Hilda from beneath his lashes for a moment long enough to make it clear it's an appraisal and the kind which happens right before an action. A mischievous one, specifically. ]

Am I.

[ It's the sort of thing not asked as a question but said as a statement since he's not looking for an answer. Claude flicks his gaze to Sylvain briefly to check for his attention before he focuses his own back entirely on Hilda.

If his touches along bared skin had been subtle before, they're anything but now when after dropping his eyes away to skim them over her in full appreciation. Another action he'd already done before but feels even more prudent to do again to make it clear he's evaluating something beyond simple enjoyment alone.

There's intent in letting his hand roam up the length of her leg, this time along the inside of it as he moves back to perching in front of her again. Claude's in no rush as he stops his hand short to let it linger halfway up her thigh, instead stopping to sketch abstract shapes in either teasing or a promise. He's not revealing which yet for the purpose of drawing things out when he leans in even closer than before between them both and still short of a kiss for either of them. All the better for a sizeable smirk when he keeps his focus on Hilda but not without reaching out with his free hand to trace the back of it over the side of Sylvain's face for good measure. ]

Why would I do anything else when I know how well it works on you both? Call it free inspiration since I know your imaginations can fill in the blanks and they have before.

[philancer]

Always a fucking tease.

[ There’s amusement in Sylvain’s voice, however, as he gives a light scoff and lowers Hilda one more - if only to free up his hands finally. Although he’s shifted behind her so when he sets her back down, she’s all but perched in his lap now.

His hands slide around her hips to the front. One drifts down to trail teasingly along the inside of her thigh while the other shifts upwards, fingers splayed over the lace of her corset and the taut planes of her stomach. Coming to rest just under the swell of her breasts. ]

Why should any of us rely on just our imaginations tonight?