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

[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?

[theidlemaiden]

[ Claude's practically predictable answer and actions sparks both amusement and exasperation in her eyes - and therein lies her eternal struggle when it comes to playing coy. As much as she can dish it out, and as much as she enjoys the anticipation, she has and always will be impatient to some degree. Her impatience hasn't hit its peak yet though and instead she settles comfortably into Sylvain's lap. The teasing wiggle of her hips is purposeful on two fronts: one, to see if it gets a rise out of the man it belongs to and two, if it will amuse Claude because she's definitely done something similar to him before in the past.

Claude's touch blazes against her skin, prompting the thought that it's been long since he's touched her like that even jokingly (or as jokingly as someone can get in this state of undress). In contrast, where Sylvain's hands have chosen to rest sends a chill through her spine, and the minuscule wiggle of her hips becomes more of a minuscule grind.

This time she doesn't fall for the kiss, instead letting their breaths mingle with one another's in the quiet of their hotel room. She leans back slightly, turning her head to the side so she can see the both of them in her field of view. Hilda's hands trail down Sylvain's neck so she can tag Claude's face a little closer to theirs. She traces the outline of his lips with her finger, ones that she's mapped out with her own so many times before. Pink eyes flit between green and amber, innocently blinking. ]

I think my imagination needs a little more help. But I'm sure both of you have some ideas.

[godshattering]

[ Sylvain's remark just gets a repeat of that knowing sidelong look from Claude - what with the other man having been on the other side of it several times, there's no point in pretending otherwise or saying so aloud. Hilda's certainly been the benefactor of said mischief several times herself, and now getting to put the two together is rather fun for him. Something which only continues when she tilts his face and runs her finger across his lips, two things which have him watching her very closely and completely disregarding that supposed angelic look. ]

I bet we can find a way to make you remember your daydreams clearly.

[ The gap doesn't last. This time when he leans forward it's to kiss Sylvain with no hesitation and no small amount of need, want, or both behind it. Claude moves his same hand from that brush to tangle it in Sylvain's hair with the intention of keeping him there. His other hand continues to inch up Hilda's inner thigh ever higher, whatever abstract shapes happening dissipating into something far more deliberate.

Electric as it might be, he doesn't let the kiss last before breaking it and shifting enough to trail his lips along Hilda's jaw, purposefully dragging out the conclusion they know is coming when his mouth lands on hers next. There's no less intensity behind it, not when longing slips into it from weeks (and longer) of wanting this. From a near miss in a recovery bed, to having her here now between them both - to what he'd meant about remembering.

The full memory will have to wait when Claude ends that kiss too rather than letting himself get swept up into it. It's not enough, but it'll help to properly set the stage for possibility when he pulls back enough only enough to be able to speak in a low tone he'll know they'll both be able to hear. ]

We could start, I think, with losing the corset. What do you say, Sylvain?

[philancer]

[ His eyes fall shut as a quiet sound slips free, both from the kiss and the tangle of Claude's fingers in his hair. He doesn't pull away, not minding giving Hilda a show to spark her imagination, if that's what she desires. His arms remain locked around her, one hand teasing up over the soft swell of a breast, even while most of it is still hidden away beneath the lacy corset she wears.

When she wiggles on his lap, she'll no doubt find she has certainly gotten a rise out of him, as it were, and the kiss only adds to that. When his eyes open again, they're darker, a faint flush to his skin as he gives Claude a weighted look. One that shows more than a slight hint of hunger when Claude turns and kisses Hilda next. His eyes are locked on the sight, barely breathing, and that really should not be as hot as it is.

At Claude's low-pitched words, he makes a quiet sound of disappointment, muffling it against Hilda's throat as his lips return to trailing kisses against her skin. ] Are you sure we've admired her enough in the corset yet? [ His tone is teasing as he shoots Claude a wink, letting his hand sweep down over the front of it once more before giving a dismayed sigh. ] But I suppose you have a point. And I'm sure we can make her more comfortable without it.

[ He intends to, in fact. Fingers sweep down the center of the front of the corset, unfastening the little clasps with an ease that speaks to perhaps too much familiarity with an article of clothing he never wears. Especially when he's still too busy watching the pair of them to even spare the task a glance.

But the lace falls away after a moment and he tugs it free to discard it with her gown. But his eyes have dropped to his view from over her shoulder now and he gives a low, appreciative groan as one hand slides up to cup one of her breasts in his palm, teasing over a nipple with his thumb. ]

Nevermind. Losing the corset was a great idea.

[theidlemaiden]

[ The kiss between Claude and Sylvain is what she had hoped and then some - not that she had thought about them kissing nevermind watching them kiss because admitting either of those thoughts was ridiculous. The bite of her lower lip as she watches says otherwise though. If she's being brutally honest however, the thought that had truly never crossed her mind had been that she'd be here between the two of them. As much as she's enjoying it, the sight feels surreal as does the feel of Claude's fingers against her thighs and Sylvain's touch.

She shouldn't be so surprised when Claude makes good on his teasing to kiss her next but she is if the sharp inhale is any indication. A beat later her hands tenderly cup his face, remembering only belatedly that she had vowed she'd never kiss him again several weeks ago. By the time their lips part, that thought is nowhere to be seen as she's left breathlessly giggling at Sylvain's vocal disappointment against her skin. ]

We could just leave it on then - or not.

[ She starts and stops that brief thought as she feels the tension around her torso loosen. Being able to breathe freely again is glorious and instinctively she goes to inhale before stuttering at Sylvain's touch over her hardening nipple. A breath turns to a soft gasp and her back arches into his touch. Turning her head to the side, she presses wanting kisses to the side of Sylvain's face, nipping lightly at his lips as she turns his face forcefully towards her. When she pulls away, her gaze lingers peering at him innocently from over her shoulder feeling his enjoyment beneath her. Fingers tug Claude's chin towards her, eyes staying trained on Sylvain until she turns her head to meet Claude's lips in a kiss. It's short lived by design and she pulls away so there's only a fraction of space left between their lips. There's a telltale smile in her voice as fingers trail daintily down Claude's chest towards his waist band. ]

I shouldn't be the only one who's comfortable though. Both of you don't need your pants right?

[godshattering]

[ There's the slightest, fondest eye roll at Sylvain's supposed disappointment over taking the corset off and Hilda's reminder they could leave it on even if either of them - or Hilda, too - seem inclined to do anything but disregard that. The removal of the corset as Sylvain's fingers nimbly undo it and is the only reason he'd consider pulling back just then despite teasing Hilda, save for also giving the other man a smirk he knows will be appreciated.

But as it should, the reveal of what's beneath gets all of their attention with an appreciative murmur escaping him to match Sylvain's groan. There's a slight laugh from Claude when it turns out they have the same idea as he reaches forward. Or that was the plan until deciding to wait for a moment, and her reactions to Sylvain's touch are something to behold. That makes his pause an even better decision in his mind when he goes to cup her other breast with a gentle roll of her nipple beneath his thumb to layer sensations as her lips meet his again.

Not for long; something he should've predicted and which doesn't stop him from chasing after her for another kiss as Hilda's fingers skipping across his skin send faint shivers of anticipation in the direction they're heading. There's still other plans he'd like to enact first, even if he's not going to stop her advance. ]

Maybe. Who says we're done appreciating you first?

[ Claude returns a hand to run his fingers featherlight along the back of her thigh before lifting her leg to wrap around his waist loosely for now. After that he returns it to her hip to trace down along skin and across curves he knows well before moving downwards and - finally - with far more intent than mere teasing if Hilda doesn't want it to be only that. ]

We're supposed to make sure your imagination's properly inspired first, aren't we? I know Sylvain has plenty to offer in the way of ideas.

[philancer]

Who says we’d ever be done appreciating her, in that case?

[ Sylvain’s voice is light and teasing but holds a husky note as he watches Claude tease her with a hooded gaze. With the other man moving lower, he lets his own hands come around to fondle and tease both her breasts now, keeping her alight in sensation as he nibbles sharp kisses against her shoulder and throat, leaving tiny marks in his wake.

He grins when Claude includes him in his reply, his expression turning devious but even more heated. ]

Oh, trust me. I have enough ideas to keep us inspired for weeks.

[theidlemaiden]

[ A delighted moan is followed by a shiver down her spine when it's apparent she's become the centre of their attention. She isn't sure what feels better – the way that Sylvain's hands deftly work her breasts, his lips and teeth against her collarbone, Claude's suggestive touch, or the involuntary shiver that had run through his body. All of it, her mind thinks with a sigh.

The leg that Claude has hooked around his waist automatically tightens around him, drawing him close while her hand snakes into Sylvain's red hair to tug his mouth, needy and wanting onto hers. Unbeknownst to her however, the motion has nudged the tray holding the tea inches closer to her, making the tea pot rattle.

When she pulls away, dragging her teeth lightly against his lower lip there's breathless laughter in her voice. Meanwhile her other hand has moved south down Claude's chest, skirting against the waistline of his pants before taking his hand and placing it against the growing damp spot of her panties. ]

Well are you going to keep talking about it or show us? I'm a visual learner you know.

[ The look she shoots Sylvain over her shoulder is all innocence and fluttery lashes even if her hands are doing something quite the opposite. The hand that guided Claude's hand to where she wants it has left to tease Claude instead, gently storming him through his pants. ]

[godshattering]

[ There's a brief tap of a couple fingertips to his temple when Sylvain asks that rhetorical question as if to suggest he's thought of that - and that maybe that's just the point indeed. And if it was meant to spark that very expression on the other man's face while Hilda's delight makes itself known, well. Claude will just count that as a success in every way possible.

Or he would if Hilda's hand moving over him didn't blank out his mind for a good solid few seconds. The next inhale he takes is sharp and slightly stuttered; in the name of spending attention on her he'd temporarily set aside desire, but it's made itself readily apparent now. That's enough to get him to refocus, since - ]

I think that can be arranged.

[ As for which part? Claude's not going to specify.

He's too busy moving forward himself to lean forward into her touch before that won't do and he outright moves forward on his knees to lean Hilda even farther back into Sylvain. The teapot's rattle isn't noticed by him either - nor is the tray sliding again to lean at an angle with its contents further askew - when he runs his fingers first over damp fabric before ever so slowly moving to beneath the hem running along the inside of her thigh. Still short of letting any fingers slip into her in favor of exploring sensitive spots for what'll be something they'll all enjoy, he leans down to the opposite side of her neck to start worrying his own into soft skin where it'll be plenty visible should her hair not hide it. ]