RP:Two Sides Of The Same Coin

This is a Bard's Guild RP.

Summary: Mesdoram puts on his second play, called Two Sides Of The Same Coin, this time in Cenril! Insert WelcomeToTheMurder.gif here.

To find Mesdoram's previous play, click here.

Pre-Play Questionnaire

You examine your invitation for ‘Mesdoram Presents Two Sides of the Same Coin,’ and turn over the parchment – outlined on the bottom of the paper poses an interesting question followed by 3 possible answers. Not giving too much thought, you quietly read the wording of each answer before checking the box for your desire outcome.

|Audience participation questionnaire! | – Dearly beloved guest! We graciously thank you for your planned attendance! As a token of our appreciation, we aim to please and want to tailor the performance to your taste and make this play as memorable as possible! With your input here, we will diligently carry out your wishes. Please answer the following question and we will act out your suggestion flawlessly!

Of the following themes, which of these scenarios would you like to see acted out by our performers? (Check 1 only please!)

1) Mesdoram comes out on top and triumphant over evil, sailing into the sunset

2) Mesdoram lives to be tormented for the rest of his days

3) Mesdoram tragically dies, finally getting his comeuppance

Thank you for your input!! Please give your answers to one of the workers attending the gate as you enter! Mesdoram’s play sponsored by Khitti’s Ginger Snap Bakery! Please support our local businesses!

The Goth Garden, Cenril

Play Introduction

Mesdoram (1/4) || You enter Cenril’s Goth Garden owned by everyone’s favorite redhead, Khitti, to see a very simple setup for Mesdoram’s second performance since returning to this realm: hung elegantly over Khitti’s Gingersnap Bakery is a 30-foot long purple velvet banner with ‘Two Sides to the Same Coin’ stitched in a golden yellow stretches across the building’s western wall; 3 booths are strategically sited along the garden’s perimeter all selling Khitti’s delicious baked goods with wooden signs advertising the assortment of treats and drinks Khitti and her family/workers have prepared for this much anticipated event; several sectional rows of well-crafted church-pew-like benches are organized precisely perpendicularly to one another leaving a 5-foot aisle inbetween rows, all equipped with special ordered with cushions for the patron’s backside. The seating arrangements all point towards the wooden stage where Mesdoram will be performing; nothing is extravagant about the stage’s construction: the physical stage is elevated slightly (only by 3 feet from ground level) to maximize visibility and ensure viewing angles for all patrons; a crude broken wooden stool rests on the right most side of the stage with a mysterious ceramic box infused with a foreign elven charm which occasionally flickers an orange silhouette mimicking flames licking into the air; and, of course, the drow of the hour stands by himself towards to left most side of the stage ‘greeting’ all his paying customers with a creepy smiles as they enter to witness his magnum opus.

Mesdoram (2/4)|| Once he sees that a majority of guests have filled and occupied Khitti’s spacious garden, Mesdoram speaks from his slightly elevated vantage point. “Friends! My adoring fans! And all of those who marked on their survey that very much wish death upon me! Welcome to ‘Two Sides to the Same Coin! Be sure to drop off your survey to the attendee near the entrance, but be warned now… I take these results very seriously – no take backs or second guessing once you turn in your form… Now, a couple ground rules for tonight’s evening.” Mesdoram turns around and pulls out two very poorly made potato-sack doll figures which both stand about 4-feet tall filled with an enormous amount of hay and stuffing, making the dummies appear doughy and extra fat. Across the burlap sacks’ torsos are two names written in big bold letters for everyone to clearly see: the names of Kanna and Meri. “First things first... I couldn’t secure the sow’s twin sister, so I’ve had to improvise…” With enormous amount of vigor and exaggerated effort, Mesdoram huffs, puffs, and hurls the dummies with great velocity towards where a large group of patrons needing to duck avoid harm… but before exiting the stage’s proximity, ‘Meri’ and ‘Kanna’ are stopped in mid-air and are instantaneously electrocuted by a magical barrier Mesdoram had his UnderDark underlings protect the stage with: the Meri and Kanna sacks explode within 5 seconds of contacting this lethal force field and comically sends stuffing and hay littering the stage with other debris being zapped like a bug zapper. Mesdoram continues explaining. “Do NOT interfere with anything I or any other performer does on this stage, or much like my flawless replicates, you will explode and die! For anyone who thinks they can sneak behind me, I promise you this death trap extends all around my pretty stage – do not try it… or do – just clean up after yourself if you die. Please refer to the liability waiver on the brochure saying you cannot sue me or Khitti in the event of your stupidity… you have been warned.”

Mesdoram (3/4) || After demonstrating the lethality of the force field, Mesdoram skips flamboyantly across the stage to the box sitting atop the poorly made stool. Picking up the magically infused cube into his hands, Mesdoram removes one of his elemental dirks from his right hip’s scabbard and then lightly touches the tip of his enchanted weapon near the bottom of ceramic cube. Instantly, the device glows a bright blue silhouette which highlights the cube; emitting from the box’s core is a beam of orangish magic which begins projecting ethereal orange astral images filling the entirety of the wooden stage: operating like a movie theatre projector, Mesdoram can masterfully create complete 3-dimensionial images that will be fully rendered, able to inject audible sounds and ambiances, and replicate of the environments and elements of each scene show today. For his over-the-top example to showcase the device’s capabilities stands a proportionally 20-foot tall Mesdoram standing center stage, waving and smiling that same creepy smile from earlier. The smaller Mesdoram begins turning his dirk ever so slightly, and more holographic images are produced upon the stage such as trees being rustled by the wind, birds chirping and flying around the stage, and the sloshy of a small creek flowing freely below Tall Mesdoram’s feet. But of course, it wouldn’t be a play without Mesdoram’s twisted humor on display; running across the stage is now an astral projection of the elven man ‘Magik’ running away from something! This image of Magik looks up to the giant Mesdoram, shrieking loudly as he pleas to the gigantic drow. ‘Mes! My best friend! Please save me from –“ And it is then ‘Magik’ is tackled and violently attacked by a magical bear; the sounds of the elf man screaming in terror and the roaring of the beast fill the Goth Garden – that beast is brutally mauling Magik and ragdolls the dead elf around like nothing. The Tall Drow Man just looks down in disappointment… “Good Riddance…” is utter from his holographic mouth.

Mesdoram (4/4)|| After offering the audience a procedure sneak peek of what is in store, Mesdoram removes his enchanted weapon from the magical box and place both items on top the circular stool; taking roughly 5 seconds, all images slowly fade and evaporate away into nothing and returns the stage back into an empty canvas for Mesdoram to paint on. Seeing the adoration adorning the faces of his adoring fans, Mesdoram elaborates for the audience who may have missed the demonstration. “With this device, along with the help of Princess Thea’s elemental weaponry, I can manipulate and create the entirety of my play! Saves money, looks fantastic, and I don’t have to pay any understudies to stand around like morons. Win win!!” Thinking he has adequately explained all the rules and safety regulations, Mesdoram strides closer to the stage and address the crowd once again. “If we all follow the instructions and don’t charge the stage, I promise you all this night will go smooth; so as tempted as you maybe to preform the kill shot yourself, save the killing for the professional maniac that stands before you.” With an exaggerated bow and a sarcastic wink, Mesdoram reclaims his device and his dagger back into his grasp, sits upon the poorly made stool, and gives one last announcement. “Now, you have 20 minutes to buy the delicious treats and drink, give our gracious host Khitti all of your money, and find your seats. In 20 minutes exactly, I will start the first act whether you are ready or not. Do not tip any of the workstaff – their payment is leaving here alive… probably. ‘Two Sides of the Same Coin’ starts in 20 minutes!!” Sufficiently explaining everything, Mesdoram swings his feet back and forth and allows everyone to get their fill of drinks and food… but he has a tight schedule to adhere to and will not wait a second more.

Kanna arrives with the rest of Queen Reginae's party, and her dress leaves little to the imagination to the surprise of noone or everyone, depending on who you ask. A bolt of pure silver snake skin been polished and embedded onto a white silk bodycon slip, dusted with a glittering powder, and contoured around her generous curves. A gold ring around Kanna's neck holds the dress up at two points as a halter. The gold accent is highlighted by matching large gold hoops, gold bangle bracelets, and golen ribbon that holds Kanna's silvery hair in a high ponytail. Even the music-note garter tattoo on her thigh, which is visible tonight, has been altered with a bardic cantrip to be a lovely shimmering golden instead of it's usual pink. With painted golden lips and eyelids, Kanna looks up at her 'date' for tonight. It is none other than the one and only Mathollak. "It does look like you're the best dressed here after all." She says with a well-practiced flirtatious lilt that comes from her years of acting in front of others. Even though she is not the one on stage, Kanna -is- still putting on an act, after all. She has to pretend that she is here of her own free will and that she enjoys any part of this. "Where did you say our seats were?" Mathollak promptly points her and Reginae to the reserved section he negotiated with Mesdoram for before he leaves to join the ushers, and the group make their way to the first few rows. Kanna sits by the aisle, two rows from the front, with the seats on either side of her open, preferably with one for Mathollak whenever he gets back. Only when she is settled is she forced to bear witness to the dummy that's supposed to represent herself. Kanna smiles sweetly, though she does cross her legs and arms to make herself look at least a little bit slimmer. The rest of the act is met with that same forced smile and confused head tilts.

Quintessa is here, but not exactly here as herself, as the changeling has devised a simple yet effective disguise to sneak around Cenril. After forging identification papers and establishing herself as a feline commoner from Chartsend to get through customs, the fugitive slowly makes her way to take her seat for Mesdoram’s play. Even for those closest to Quintessa, her new appearance would be hard to recognize; Black hair is now blonde, with the fringe that normally hangs in her face pinned back against her head between the two large cat-ears that had been alchemically provided to her- same for the long, short-haired, yellow tail that swishes behind her. Her eyes also match, both now a golden hazel with slitted pupils that perhaps looked more reptilian than feline. The blonde stranger walks around barefoot, but even without heels she’s still decently tall, a bit over five and a half feet, though the way she skulks and slouches makes her look shorter than she really is. Gently hanging loosely from the feline’s shoulders is an emerald green sundress with bright red poppy patterns scattered along her bodice. She wears no jewelry and only the bare minimum makeup, just enough to conceal her birthmark and scars on her face. Quintessa does, however, wear two plucked poppies that sit beneath her cat ears to match the pattern of her bodice, just a little something to look extra nice for Mesdoram’s performance tonight. By the time the blonde feline has found her seat (as close to the front row as possible) she is practically buzzing with excitement. As the first act progresses her large, topaz eyes remain locked onto the performance, fully enthralled by the magic of theater.

Mathollak accompanies Kanna and Reginae’s other honored guests, but possibly in a slightly different role. He’s there not only to enhance the Queen’s experience, but also that of her honored guests. Whether this is a duty that’s been thrust upon him or something he volunteered for, he relishes his duties. His outfit today also reflects his job; he’s dressed similarly to the waitstaff and the ushers, but with key differences. They’re very formal, and he is too, or a mockery of it. He’s wearing a buttoned vest of what seems to be sewn from a large snake’s discarded snakeskin (but it couldn’t be, could it?). It’s supple and flexible, this much is obvious, as it contours around his upper body accentuating his physique. Fortunately it’s also sheer looking, and shields the content of his skin mainly by virtue of the time of day. It terminates just under his navel, revealing a precious few inches of skin there, before his skin tight pants cover the rest. They’re of a similar make, and seem to be held up only by the tension created when they snugly hug his buttocks and thighs. They’re cut short also, revealing the bottom half of his calves and all of his ankles. His shoes are a sensible black. When they arrive, he goes out ahead to speak with the ushers who would be showing them to their seats. He puts a heavy hand lightly on one’s shoulder and encourages him to face away from the incoming crowd while they share quiet words. The conversation ends with Mathollak violently wrapping his hands around the usher’s head and pulling it toward his own, and pressing a moist kiss on his forehead, before rejoining his prison pals. “Right this way,” Mathollak says proudly, and they’re led to an envious selection of seats in the front. Kanna is of course very flattering to him, and he gives it right back. “Me? Nono you’re clearly biased, and besides it was your look that inspired mine. And the Queen’s of course.” He’s actually enjoying himself, and possibly completely unaware that Kanna or any of his other inmate pals aren’t.

Meri wouldn't miss the play that is being hosted at her sister's bakery for the world. But that was only part of the reason that Meri was here tonight, she was also super curious to see what sort of content Mesdoram would manage to come up with. With all his drinking, she never really imagined him to be the eloquent or well-written sort. Meri arrives, presumably on the arm of Magikrios, wearing a short, black cocktail style dress and matching heels. No need for a weapon, both she and Magikrios have their skills outside of a blade. The blonde will let her husband pick where they are sitting tonight. It does not escape Meri's attention, the replica of choice that Mesdoram is using for tonight. Magik. Meri. Both have already died and the play has not even begun? Meri responds to all of this by sharing a knowing smirk with Magikrios. As the two make their way to whatever seats Magik decides upon, Meri will greet those she knows with a casual wave.

Khitti || Regardless of whatever dresscode there might be, Khitti wasn’t having any of that, especially considering she was literally just going to be hanging out on her balcony watching it. So what is she wearing? A pair of black cotton shorts and a black tanktop. Yes, Khitti was the epitome of fashionable tonight, folks. She’d long since pushed one of the apartment’s armchair’s out onto the balcony, hoping that it might be enough to see over the side of the cherry wood railing, got herself a slice of carrot cake from the bakery, concocted a Long Rynvale Ice Tea, and put them together on a table beside her chair. She even brought a blanket too, just in case! She’d make herself comfy and use that balcony what it was made for, people-watching, while they all waited for things to start.

Valrae arrives just almost on time with two of the Cenrili Guard trailing behind her. She’d chosen a bell sleeved dress of milky white gossamer and silk, the delicate embroidery of the sea pattern mapping of the channel between Cenril and Rynvale painstakingly detailed in silver thread only visible in short flashes of lamp light as she moved. Her golden hair was piled in an artfully styled mess of curls and braids atop her head, clear crystal laden chains of silver and a charm shaped as the star of a compass dangled from her ears. After dropping off her filled out survey, she browses the stands selling Khitti’s famous goods and makes several purchases. So much, in fact, that her guards hand’s also become full. Eventually, with a glass of white wine in one hand and a heavy plate of sweets in the other, the witch takes a seat just behind the front row. Her guards mingle to the side, away from obscuring anyone’s view but close enough to be comfortable. She had made troubled noises as the unflattering Meri and Kanna dolls exploded and had finished her wine by the time the mauling had finished. She turns her wide eyes to the unfamiliar blonde feline near her and leans closer to her, whispering, “A bear mauling before the first act? I’m not sure what to expect now…” Eventually, she turns in her seat to wave toward Kanna, Meri, Khitti and any other familiar face that might appear in the crowd as well.

Magikrios arrives like a normal person for once, by foot. Well, Meri and Magik traveled by air, but they actually walked into the garden on their feet. That counts, right? Magik has the hottest wife on his arm and takes a quick moment to brush off any lingering black smoke. He's wearing his normal Veneficus attire this evening; black dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up, with an even darker black vest, black dress pants, and drow skin dress shoes. Maybe. Or just regular leather. No one may ever know the truth. With the seats and stage in sight, Magik starts to ask Meri where she would like to sit. He pauses during the display on Mes' security measures. As the holographic Magik is thrown about by that holo-bear, Magikrios curls a lip and leads the couple to front and center. He'll kill Mes where he stands. The Lyastri examines the seating, waits for Meri to get comfortable in hers first, then finally sits down next to her. He leans back comfortably, takes Meri's hand in his and begins looking around for any familiar faces who may also want to kill Mes where he stands.

Leoxander had the funeral hue covered. All black, from boots to collar. No tie or formal wear, of course, but rather than some fitted tee shirt over his torso, he wore a black button-down shirt made by Kreekitaka some time ago, which fit slightly snug now that he was in better shape than that prior year. Even tucked in if one could even imagine such a thing. A silver chain disappeared under the front of a collar loose of its topmost button, the notched lapel folded down and the unlinked cuffs of his sleeves rolled fairly neatly back to display some of the ink between knuckles and forearms. Definitely no slacks of fancy footwear, but most of the laces of his boots disappeared beneath dark denim that was clean and distressed free, loose fit but cinched on his waist with a steel buckled leather belt. For once, Leo didn’t look so much like he rolled out of bed to head out and find trouble. Even his hair (although not exactly combed neat) was partly tied back with a messy half bun knot at the crown of his skull, revealing a cunning stare that was slightly squinted, focused, even without the sun in his eyes. He hadn’t shaved, but he had trimmed up his slight beard a bit, since he wasn’t intentionally or officially going into battle. However, it was his heavy choice of accessory that might be what caught attention, if anyone noticed him on the street between the garden and the bakery, looking in the direction of the production set up with arms folded over his chest for the moment. The large compound bow was at his back and accompanied by a a small quiver of crow-fletched broadhead arrows latched to the back of his belt rather than traditionally strapped across his chest, and most likely there were blades concealed somewhere on his person. The range weapon wasn’t the only thing paired. He tore his stare from the busy drow on the stage and looked over at his fiance in her… appropriately blood red gown, jaw tense as he concerned himself with her presence. True, the two were often side by side, but he knew there was a real possibility Loravelle might see something horrible, or that things might go terribly wrong. “I wouldn’t have let them.” He replied to her comment quietly amidst the buzz of the crowd.

Loravelle ;; While relatively plain and simplistic, Loravelle decided to branch out from her usual greens and wear something from the direct opposite side of the color wheel. A scarlet, floor-length gown, styled like a backless, short-sleeved chenogasm accentuated with strands of pearls criss-crossing the back to obscure some of her rarely exposed, pale skin. This isn't her normal wear by any means, especially with how long the train of the dress is, but it's a gift from her sisters that she couldn't possibly decline on wearing. She tries to re-frame this as pre-gaming for the wedding, but that only aids in turning her pale complexion near ghostly at the thought. Her hair is swept up and away with the help of a pair of pearl-tipped hair pins, and she fusses anxiously with the pearl-inlaid brooch fastened to her high collar, right at the center of her throat. She's unarmed, uncertain, and trying her damnedst not to look uncomfortable or anxious alongside her fiance toting his bow. Perhaps she should have brought a fan to keep her hands busy with, bust instead her fingers twist a plain bangle of gold hanging from one of her wrists. “I'm glad they didn't agree to tag along,” she leans a little toward the rogue as she softly murmurs, referring to her sisters. Somehow she imagined their chaos might actually tip her over the edge to outright panic. She may enjoy performing arts, but Lora would be lying if she said she preferred plays over fighting tourneys. If her hand managed to find Leo's, she'd take it with a tighter squeeze than normal, and a silent hope that he'll be taking the lead here instead of her occasional attempts at being 'in charge'.

Brennia is here with her Queen and the royal palace healer, Nadia, while wearing a flattering white dress which has gold accents (as usual). Of course there are plenty naga guards for the Queen, but they are unarmed due to the regulations in Cenril currently. That doesn't make the warriors any less dangerous when it comes to the care of their Queen. The avian had asked months ago if they may attend this play when she was offered the flier for it at Reginae's fight in the blood bowl and Nadia has become a best friend to Brennia during her stay in Alithrya. So, after being greeted by Mesdoram and blowing him a kiss, she is positioned between Reginae along with Nadia as they are guided to their special seats, but there are the Queen's other esteemed guests. It seems it is a family outing and Brenia couldn't be more excited even though she knows what may happen because her husband shared that bit with her. Her wings shift nervously and sometimes slump a little in sorrow, but she makes sure to keep a happily excited expression on her face as she sits with the Queen. As the spectacle begins, she jumps ever so slightly at the dolls being eviscerated by an invisible barrier and her heart sinks further in her chest while she plays with the rose gold wedding band on her finger. Then, as usual, the drow's sense of humor earns a little smile from Brennia. The projection from the ceramic box is nothing new to her in her dreams and seeing it work in the mortal realm and when the larger projection of Mesy grins at the audience, she opens the white and gold fan to cool her face from blushing.

Meri is confident quite that there are a few people who would not mind killing Mesdoram where he stands in this crowd.

Act 1

Mesdoram (1/6) || With a majority of the crowd sufficiently settled into their seats, Mesdoram stands and maneuvers behind his cruddy stool to start the show. Gingerly placing his father’s magical box atop and positioning the box in its proper place, the cynical drow takes hold of Princess Thea’s blade and places the sharp edge carefully on top the magically box. Looking like a chef slicing vegetables on a cutting board, the maestro Mes begins working his magic; the stage’s forcefield flashes a bright white once more before turning invisible, serving as both a dire reminder to any fools foolish enough to alter the outcome of today’s proceedings and an improvised curtain call. The ceramic cube emits its magnificent orange beam across the entirety of the stage; and like a laser grid show, the energy beam flattens across the horizontal plane, begins expanding across the ‘y’ and ‘z’ axis, and immediately renders the environment the 1st act of ‘Two Sides of the Same Coin’ for his viewing audience to enjoy.

Quintessa ‘s eyes flicker over to Valrae, who by sheer luck of the divine cosmic forces that drove everything in existence had placed these two women right next to one another. The blonde feline gives the witch a friendly smile, pretending not to recognize her and treating her like a random guest. “I hear the playwright is a literary genius,” she whispers back, “I came all the way from out west to catch this show!” Great, now she was small-talking with the one person she needed to avoid.

Mesdoram (2/6) || Several tall trees covered in months’ worth of snowfall decorate the stage’s eastern and western walls; filling the stage floor is roughly 2 inches of snow with some greenery poking out from this winter blanket while snowflakes continue to fall from the sky. There is no breeze nor is there any rustling of wildlife of any kind… but the audience can hear and see someone coming from the southern most section of the performance stage… a desperate elven man sprinting through the snowy foundation in search for something. This elven man is covered from head to toe in an assortment of armory and heavy winter attire: warm long johns and a long sleeve shirt serve to cover his pale skin with cloth gloves protecting his fingers from the elements; his next layer of protection is his mithril leggings, breastplate, gauntlets, and battle boots which appears scuffed and damage as if running from a recent battle; his head is helmetless but is his mouth is wrapped around with a think woolen blue scarf providing some resistance to the ever lowering temperatures. As the elven man runs closer to the front of the stage, the audience can observe the man more clearly and sees he is equipped with a broad sword resting securely on his right hip pocket; the audience is also able to see this man is blessed with brilliant blue eyes and noticeably long blonde hair flowing wildly behind him as he sprints toward the audience – you can also see the panic and desperation in this man’s concerning eyes as he continues his anxious search.

Mathollak is excitedly waiting to see what’s about to happen, and as the two dummies get hurled across the stage, he’s just about inclined to attempt to catch them. Of course they then get halted and electrified into dust. “Woah!” He sits back down and nudges Regi’s guests, “Did you see that! How’d he do that?” Mathollak needs to know more. To that end, he uses his superhuman party senses to detect the refreshments, and very soon after his party is seated, he leaves. Quickly, he returns with a platter of nagaritas for each of them and passes them out. His thinly stemmed, wide-mouthed glass is turned upside down very quickly. “Oh that’s good,” he says almost as an afterthought as his arm cocks back. It snaps back into position, and the empty glass soars through the air toward the stage. It’s caught in midair as prescribed, and explodes into shimmering dust. “Amazing,” he says clapping loudly.

Mesdoram (3/6) || Suddenly, this man stops dead in his tracks as he sees his worst fears confirmed; peering to his left with enormous anguish, the elven man looks upon a fallen woman collapsed entirely upon the snowy floor slowly being covered with the falling flakes. Brushing aside the initial shock, the elven man rushes with great haste and is now cradling his loved one in his arms; as her head rests upon his right thigh muscle, the audience can see a very beautiful woman struggling to stay alive: she looks upon him with weary eyes just barely able open and functioning, her neck shown to the audience to be bloodied and infected with a deadly poison, and her body fidgeting sporadically – is her body sending impulses throughout her body to stay alive, or are her nerves succumbing to fatal dose of venom coursing through her veins… the audience may never know. Instincts override the grieving elven man as he removes the scarf wrapped around his face; applying a great deal of pressure upon her open wound, the elf presses hard against her injury in a folly attempt to save her life. “No.. no… I know it hurts, sweetheart... But you got to keep breathing, my love.” The audience can hear the sadness and defeat in his voice as he attempts to prolong the inevitable; in a last-ditch effort to rescue her, the elven man yells out into the air. “OVER HERE!! WILL SOMEONE GET THE HEALER HERE NOW!!!” The man frantically shouts his hopeless order into the cold air for any of his clansmen to respond to his pleas…

Mesdoram (4/6) || It is in that moment a weak and bloody hand gently grazes the elven man’s right cheek – unintentionally leaving a finger-length path of blood trailing from his cheekbone down to his jawline. Solemnly looking at the source of this soft touch, the elven man overwhelmed with grief looking into the eyes of his love. In her last loving act in this world, she had attempted to bring him peace with a final goodbye before the eternal bliss sends her to the ethereal plane… but she did not have enough energy nor air in her lungs to give him that final farewell. Instead, she used what strength she had left in the living world to hold his cheek once more as if his love would be the cure to her affliction, stared loving into his already tear-filled eyes, and smiled her signature sweet smile one last time to her love… and with her final goodbye delivered, her body gives way and becomes heavy… her hand colliding hard into the icy snow… never to rise again as her brilliant blue eyes drift to the side into lifelessness. The elven man tenderly lifts her head and torso into a hopeless embrace as he cries over her… never to hear her laugh nor hear her true final words as the snow cries over both their bodies. “Please no… sweetheart… please no… come back…” His somber request would fall on deaf ears…

Mesdoram (5/6) || Coming from the right side of the stage, an equally armored man enters into view and looks down upon his brother embracing his fallen love… removing his helmet to get a clearer view, he kneels down beside his brother and places a sympathetic hand on the upper part of his back. “Brother… I’m so sorry.” The elven man, overwhelmed with heartache and anger, feels a pit of rage and addresses his brother with vengeance in his eyes. “Vexar… I want them dead! ALL OF THEM, VEXAR!! DEAD TO THE LAST MAN!!” Vexar doesn’t react right away nor doesn’t he judge his elven brother for wanting retribution; Vexar elects not to say anything… in fear his brother might go off the deep in. Placing his loved one gently onto the the snow and closing her eyes respectfully, the elven man spins around quickly and stares daggers into Vexar. “I’m going to kill them, Vexar… every last one of them… either help me or stay out of my way.” With an angry huff, the elven man pushes through Vexar and begins walking out of frame… but before the man leaves, his brilliant blue sapphire eyes flash a clear distinguish silvery pair of steely orbs with his mind fixating on his next mission… obliterating and eviscerating the one who killed her and the ones brash enough to declare war on ‘Sin’… this heartbroken enraged elf man will make sure his love has plenty of company. The holographic projection of Vexar solemnly watches his brother begin his destructive path towards vengeance… knowing how that will change their relationship forever. “I’m sorry brother… but I cannot join you on this…” are spoken softly but loud enough for the audience to hear.

Mesdoram (6/6) || Feeling this act has been performed flawlessly, Mesdoram removes his dirk from on top the magical device; within 5 seconds, the stage is returned to the empty canvas – the lasting images the audience is able to see is the dead woman being covered in snow, a brokenhearted Vexar looking towards his exiting brother, and an enraged elven man determined to start a war with the world.

Mahri had gone shopping just for this, and believe it or not, the wolf had bought a dress. The shop girl had said it looked good, but the wolf still wasn’t sure, but here she is, wearing a mid-thigh length dress that hugged in all the right places. It’s black, transitioning to a deep red, the sleeves drape over the lycan’s forearms leaving a cold-shoulder cutout where the collar circles a slender neck. Around her ankle glitters Lita’s jewelry that she had yet to return, and instead of the usual boots, Mahri donned a pair of heels with wrap-around straps tied securely around her calves. All that dark, jet-black hair is tamed and curled to fall down her back in silky waves. Okay, she’s looking alright for the evening but silver eyes lined with khol search the seats until she finds her usual crew, and that’s where Mahri is going to sit. With them.

Leoxander scanned their surroundings as he relaxed his arms from their tangle to take Lora’s hand, but his shoulders and expression remained tense. He searched the shop behind him then tilted his head back to spot the red head on her balcony and murmured to Lora. “C’mon…” If Mesdoram’s show did take a turn for the worse, he wasn’t going to risk her lost to the crowd or get trapped like the last incident. Blue eyes sought out familiar faces, taking note especially of the presence of any of the flock as he led the red clad woman toward the bakery shop door.

Brennia recognizes this scene from her first dream with Mesdoram and Hawkeye. She smiles a little seeing the elven man's face, but she gets a pack of kerchiefs ready for the Naida, maybe the Queen and the rest of her party if they need one. Watching the scene over again the mortal realm hits just as hard and pulls at her heartstrings. Gently, she dabs her eyes at the gut wrenching scene and sniffles softly.

Mathollak said, "Who do you think the lady that died was? She seems important."

Meri :: Despite a Meri-doll being used as an example during the 'rules' portion of the play...Meri is actually paying attention to the details of the first act. Enough that she actually has questions. Of course, she does not just blurt these questions out loud for everyone else to hear and answer. That's just rude. But she's still ill-mannered enough that she leans in toward Magik. "An elf? Vexar? Brother? Does Vexar have another brother? Or...do you think...? The elf isn't supposed to be...? Is it?"

Magikrios had every intention to come into the play and show every bit of disinterest, but that doesn't seem to be the gameplan now. He turns his head to Meri and lowers his voice to her.

Loravelle is overwhelmed by the performance already, but not quite to the point that she feels the need to shield her eyes from it. The pull of her hand in Leo's grasp has her moving, focused more on trying not to stumble and less on the stage in that moment until they've made it safely to the balcony, and hopefully the Mouse can find somewhere to sit. ...Or at least find a drink to settled nerves. That dress of hers is too snug for pockets to conceal flasks like her usual, looser-fitting wear.

Magikrios whispered something to Meri.

Meri whispered something to Magikrios.

Valrae turns back in time to lift her golden brow in surprise at the ‘literary genius’ comment. She hadn’t heard that one yet. She’d only ever seen this particular drow, on several occasions, incredibly drunk… Somehow, she felt like this behavior might suit a genius playwright. “Oh, we’ll I’m more excited than ever now.” She comments softly, just as Math shatters glass down on the front row and causes her to yelp. She barely has time to level a glare toward him before the show begins. The witch was caught from the first moment. She felt as if she could imagine the cold of the snow, her heart beat picking up and her eyes misting as the mystery man cradles his dying beloved. “Oh, no…”

Magikrios whispered something to Meri.

Meri whispered something to Magikrios.

Khitti watched quietly as the story unfolded, the ever-perceptive redhead taking in all aspects of it. She sipped away at her drink, brows furrowed as she studied the characters. The blue eyes of the elf in particular gave Khitti pause, as well as a frown. They were the same as what Khitt saw the night of his fight with Mesdoram, just before Khitt dropped him from that ledge. It sent Khitti’s stomach flip-flopping, as it often did when her bad feelings emerged, her frown deepening further. Despite all this, Leo’s look in her direction, and his dragging Lora towards the building had not gone unnoticed. When the two arrived, Khitti would do her best to not look unnerved, but the alcohol wasn’t going to help her at all.

Mathollak said, "I can't wait for the vengeance part there's gonna be so much fighting I bet."

Brennia pulls free a clean kerchief and shifts her large black wing in order to hand it to Cenril's Mayor for her misty eyes. Then she quickly folds her wings back around her like a cloak so they do not block anyone's view.

Act 2

Mesdoram (1/6) || Allowing the audience enough time to process his 1st act, Mesdoram again places Princess Thea’s blade carefully on top his father’s magically device. The stage’s forcefield again flashes its bright white once more before turning invisible, once again serving as both a dire reminder to any fools foolish enough to alter the outcome of today’s proceedings and the start of the next act. The ceramic cube emits its magnificent orange beam across the entirety of the stage; and like a laser grid show, the energy beam again flattens across the horizontal plane, begins expanding across the ‘y’ and ‘z’ axis, and immediately renders the 2nd act of ‘Two Sides of the Same Coin’ for his adoring audience to enjoy. Many will recognize the interior as the Frostmaw Tavern: there sitting at the bar is an adult elf and a human male sitting side by side in what appears to be an empty bar besides the busy bartender and a mountain of empty whiskey bottles next to the elven man. Seemingly out of place is this establishment is a grand piano placed in the far-right corner of the tavern with a roaring fire combating the lowering temperature to keep whoever is performing warmth from the frigid cold air – other than that, this is the Frostmaw Tavern many have frequented during their visits in the mountain town. With a heavy sigh and with a newly opened whiskey, the elven man takes a sip and begins telling the kind human a tale of depression, anguish, and an unusual savior.

Valrae takes Brennia’s kerchief with a soft smile and whispers, “Thank you,” as she blots around her eye makeup carefully.

Mesdoram (2/6) || “My love is dead because of me… she was not the fighter that I am but that did not grant her mercy from her attackers… not after the heinous acts I had carred out with my clansmen… the gash in her neck was secondary only to the poison that riddled her body… consumed by my rage, I tracked down and stared death into the assassin’s soul and ripped his spine out of his body ... A forbidden technique from my village, but I didn’t care what laws of man broke or which family members would scoff at me in that moment... I do not regret evening the score…” The elven man pauses and takes a sip from his beverage before returning to his story-telling. “I just remember holding her in my arms as the blood spilled from her throat and her reaching up to my face… as if touching my face would remedy her pain… that her sweet smile was telling me everything will be alright… or was she trying to tell me…” Slamming his glass on the bar top in dismay, the elf shakes his head disappointedly... the image of her mouthing her final words too weak to express them fully is a thought that haunts the elf at night. “… but her hand barely grazed my cheek before falling down onto the ground… with her eyes staring into mine… and for the last seconds of her life, she moved her mouth to mime the words, but I’m afraid she was too far gone for her muscles to muster up a single syllable… she just drifted and fell asleep for the final time…”

Mesdoram (3/6) || The elven man side eyes the human to see if he is still lending a kind ear to this story; much to the elf’s surprise, his story has managed to retain the man’s attention for the moment. Taking a deep, deep heavy breath to inhale some courage, the distraught elven man somberly regains his composure, settling his nerves with this new batch of oxygen. “That was 2 years ago, and I’ve been on a rampage ever since… my brother and I were at odds politically for the proper course of action. There was only one that I sought fit: annihilation of every soul in Kelay, Vailkrin, Rynvale, and all corners of this world bold enough to stand in my way of retribution… but he would not accompany me down my trip for revenge... and subsequently disowned me… Our paths truly branched separately even when we were younger… he was always the wiser and more calculated Quisto… and I was the erratic and cruel brother destined to do the dirty, messy work…” The elf reminisces to himself, but off to the right side of the stage forms the astral projection of Vexar and his younger brother as children: it would seem these small elven boys are the memory the elven man is reminiscing about; these children are playing pretend war in their village, running around their home time without a care in the world, and attached to the hip as the frolic around. After this delightful detour for the audience to see, the two elven boys dissipate, and we see the two adult men at the bar again. …”I really wish I could see him one last time…” the elven man concludes. The human takes a second to get the bartenders attention by holding up a ‘two’ on his right hand; signally another round for the only 2 patrons in the bar, the bartender produces the human a beer and the elf a whiskey. Cracking their new drinks open, the two new friends clink glasses and take a sip before the elven man continues.

Mesdoram (4/6) || “… I was in a real dark place after my brother’s disavowal… I had failed the two people I loved most in this world… I had lost any semblance of meaning left in this realm and my clans’ agenda meant nothing to me anymore... so I began my journey to join her in the afterlife… ” The elf finally seems to have enough of the drink now and pushes a nearly full bottle of whiskey away from him before restarting his tale. “I made it to the top of Frostmaw’s mountain range… with every intention to make that final decision… to end my life… and cast my failures against to rocks and snow below me … but as I was ready to throw my body off the edge, I was… stopped… by this snow leopard cub… this little, tiny life… came running out of from the forest edge behind me and… cried out to me like an infant needing help and began rubbing his body upon my legs…” Recalling this portion of his story strikes an accord with human as he listens very intently to the elf.” …this little fluff ball serpentined and rubbed everyone part of my pants and I returned the favor by petting her… and she began purring and chuffing at me…” At this part, the elf cracks a brief smile before returning to his somber solace. “It looked emaciated and in rough shape… so in that moment, I reached for some meat in my bag and fed her some fish... once she had her share, I packed her in the hood draped around my neck, and we both left that mountain ledge together…I named her Livi after my mother…”

Mesdoram (5/6)|| The human looks curiously up at the elf, trying to see how much of the man’s story is total bunk: after sizing him up for a moment, the stranger comes up with the conclusion elf is telling the truth. A background ambience begins filling the stage and the audience’s ears as the sweet melody of the out of place piano begins playing accompanied by beautifully song lyrics sung by a mysterious angelic figure… “Late at night when all the world is sleeping, I stay up and think of you...” The piano melody would continue as the human takes another swig of his respected drink as the elf nervously play with paper label on a bottle of whiskey… “I obviously did not take my life that day, and somedays the weight of those haunting thoughts do become overwhelming… but I took home the cub and companion with me that day in hopes of bridging the gap in my heart, find a new outlook, and now have a buddy again… until I screw Livi’s life up too… I don’t know really what to make my purpose anymore… I have done so much in my life to deserve death ten times over, and my eternal damnation in the next life is more than deserving…” The distraught elf ends his depressing tale and reaches for coin to pay his tab. The human man had to endure this rollercoaster ride of depression and defeat and took every story in stride; the man finishes his beer and offers some words to his downhearted friend.

Mesdoram (6/6) || “Well, Hawkeye, my friend… that does sound all doom and gloom… but if I may offer this for your consideration.” With that said, the human stands up from his seat, leaves 50 gold coins on the counter for the barkeep for both of their tabs, and walks over to Hawkeye’s left side to place a reassuring hand on Hawk’s shoulder. “There is an old saying that goes back further than we have been alive: there is more than one way to skin a cat. That saying exists because apparently these felines behave like they are immortal: they think they have unlimited lives almost like an endless amount of money. Because of this, they are so fearless and curious about the world and ready to die at a moment’s notice… almost like you were when you were on top that mountain where she came and found you.” The words enter Hawk’s ear and somewhat calms the distraught elf a bit along with the fatherly-embrace upon his shoulder. The human continues. “So, maybe when that cub you have back at your home… when she was rubbing on your shins… maybe Livi lent you one of her extra lives so you could live again?” The phrasing of the stranger’s words prompt Hawkeye to make solemn eye contact with him… some tears begin glossing over Hawk’s brilliant blue eyes hearing the old man’s interpretation. With a gentle understanding nod to each other, the stranger offer’s parting words to the heartbroken Hawkeye. “Don’t waste your second chance, Hawkeye… Take care of yourself, young man.” As the stranger begins walking away, the astral projections begin to flicker and fade slowly away (Mesdoram had already began removing his dirk from the magic box before the human’s final words) – the last image you can clearly make out is Hawkeye’s staring at the exit before the stage fades back to nothing – the audience soaking in Mesdoram’s 2nd act.

Arlyeon sorta surreptitiously slides into the thick of things- though, less as a member of the audience, and more as taster of treats. Namely, if there's free goodies to snack on, she's definitely there.

Kanna brings a hand up to her mouth, her acting mask slipping as her brows furrow together in concern for the elven men.

Leoxander had also witnessed those eyes that same day, dragging Mesdoram out of that same pit. So by the time he knocked and might be permitted entrance with Lora through the lavishly furnished apartment to climb those now familiar stairs to the third floor and stepped out onto the balcony beside the well dressed proprietor, he only greeted her at first with a solemn look. He did lift the bottle he’d snagged from her supply on the way with a pair of glasses, asking low and trying to respect some boundaries. “You mind?” He’d return the favor when she stopped by Rynvale, but he definitely needed a drink for this, and Lora probably would, too. The bow was shrugged off his back to rest against the rail of the balcony in reach and should the witch give her permission, he poured two glasses of whiskey. If Khitti didn’t have one, one would be offered and he would share the other with his wife to be, dividing his attention between the task and the performance taking place.

Magikrios snaps his head at Meri as the man called the elf Hawkeye. Once again, he has hushed words for his wife.

Magikrios whispered something to Meri.

Meri takes a moment to look over her shoulder at the audience behind her, trying to get a read on their reactions. Some seemed more misty-eyed than she did, like Bre and Valrae. After watching the second act, none of Meri's questions have been answered. The name Hawkeye did not really mean anything to her, just a brother to Vexar. Maybe he had another brother she knew nothing about. Meri would have to watch on, maybe act three would put some of these questions in her mind to rest. Or maybe her husband has some answers.

Mahri 'd never been to a play before and this was...interesting.

Meri whispered something to Magikrios.

Brennia continues to gently dab her tears before they fall and ruin her Vinabre Flawless Foundation because the story hits home with what she may face in the final act. Will she become lost like Hawkeye? Who is going to give her sound advice like this back in Alithrya when this is through. She loses focus on Hawkeye to find Mesdoram as he operates the ceramic box with her hand over her chest because maybe that will keep her heart from being ripped out.

Loravelle looks absolutely relieved to see Khitti once she's in view, and if it weren't for her near death-grip on Leo's hand and the fact that she absolutely did not want to leave his side in that instance, she would've beelined right over to the woman to ask here where to get a drink. But thank the gods, Leo found glasses and a bottle, so instead she tries waving at the redhead with a timid smile to accompany it. Whenever a glass or even the bottle itself is passed her way, she'll take a drink, but Lora very clearly avoids stepping too close to the balcony railing, opting to keep herself at least a foot or two back. She can enjoy the play from afar, even if she feels like she's missed a fair bit since their arrival.

Lita had saved Mahri a seat, of course. She leans over to offer the she-wolf a kiss to her cheek in greeting, dark eyes taking in the sight of the woman's dress with unabashed appreciation. She'd donned a gown herself for the evening, a dark blue thing with beaded corset and drop sleeves off her shoulders. Though she'd cut most of the tulle skirt off of it and instead of a floor length gown had opted for a pair of knee high suede boots. She's enchanted by the play's unfolding, but she'll lean over to offer Mahri a few words anyway.

Lita whispered something to Mahri.

Magikrios whispered something to Meri.

Quintessa pulls her feet up into her seat so she can hug her knees. The young woman might not understand the significance of all the information being presented, but she’s hooked anyway. She knew about Vexar, sure, but she’d never heard of Hawkeye, and Thea was just as much a mystery to her as anyone else was- just a name that gets tossed around every once in a while. Even so, Quintessa can tell nothing here is arbitrary. It all has a deeper connection to something and she wants to know what it is.

Mahri 's eyes draw away from the stage to look over at Lita, her red-stained lips curving into a smile. She'll lean in to reply,shoulders bumping a bit, so as not to distract too much from the second act.

Mahri whispered something to Lita.

Meri whispered something to Magikrios.

Lita whispered something to Mahri.

Khitti turned to look at Leo and Lora as they approached, and with Leo’s question, she’d just give him a silent nod and a dismissive wave of her hand towards the patio chairs that were already on the balcony. There was something off about her, an uncertainty about the current story unfolding that made her uneasy. She was about to bury herself deeper into her armchair, until she got a thought, and leaned over towards Lora, offering the slice of carrot cake she’d gotten for herself to the woman. “I… don’t think I can eat this right now. It’s good though, I promise.” Khitti then buried herself deeper into the chair as originally intended and covered herself with the blanket, and eyed the audience below. Meri and Magik’s constant whispering was noted, the recognition of certain things here and there written on both of their faces. “Mesdoram… What are you doing?,” her voice a whisper.

Act 3

Mesdoram (1/5) || Unlike previous introductions to the first 2 acts, Mesdoram strides closer to the center of the stage, holding his magical device carefully within both hands. The drow’s demeanor seems to be softer than normal… truly a much more docile Mesdoram stands before the audience; he appears to be overwhelmed with uncertainty and fear, a very unusual sight for those who have had unpleasant run-ins with the devilish drow. But Mesdoram is determined to push through and see this play to the end and show the messages and outcomes for everyone… even in the possible final moments of his life... Mesdoram carefully and purposefully takes a moment to stare into the eyes of each patron who is in attendance for what might be his final performance – the silence between each longing stare fills some of the audience members with awkwardness, wondering why the drow is stalling and taking so long before starting the next act… but for the lone drow upon the stage, the only emotions Mesdoram feels is dread. Genuine terror adorns his face as he anticipates the consequences of showing this next act… “Will I… see her again?” are his last thoughts thinking of his angel before summoning the courage to press on. After what feels to be an hour of silence (when really, only a minute has passed), Mesdoram speaks the words that will change of his life… for better or for worse…

Mesdoram (2/5) || “Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you for coming and witnessing the greatest show in Cenril!” Mesdoram starts and makes brief eye contact with Khitti from her balcony, remembering what will come of her family if he backs out now… Mesdoram is determined to make sure Khitti and her loved ones will be spared a cruel fate… Mesdoram segways perfectly and begins thanking her for the Garden. “And a big round of applause for our gracious host, Khitti, for allowing us to be in her garden this evening – please make your donation to her before leaving the Garden tonight… no matter how you feel towards me, we must pay tribute to our favorite Redhead!!” Mesdoram claps cumbersomely against his father’s device hoping a few would join him for a round of applause… then he pauses for what seems like an uncomfortable amount of time; members of the audience begin side-eyeing each other wondering if this is another ‘performance art piece’ like he did for Lanara’s Festival. Keen observers would notice the dramatic change his Mesdoram’s body language: though attempting to project a powerful front, details in his eyes, face, and shoulders display nervousness, anxiety, and absolute trepidation. Even from some of his biggest critics, the combination of silence and shift in appearances puts them on edge (some even grab hold of their hilts and prepare to draw weapons should this be a cruel ploy) … but there would be no trickery: only revelation. With all the formalities out the way, Mesdoram raises his magical cube chest level and begins his soliloquy. “Now then, for the next act of this amazing play, we will see how the pathetic elf Hawkeye reached the end of his pitiful existence, and mercilessly slaughtering several bandits in the process.” Mesdoram has now dialed the settings to the proper act. “And one of those fools Hawkeye and ‘I’ killed, named Keiran, was idiotic enough to marry our very own –“ ‘Sllttt!'

Mesdoram (3/5) || Mesdoram unceremoniously drops his father’s ceramic box before finishing his sentence and watches it tumble harmlessly towards the right side of the stage; the drow’s eyes widen in horror and stares blankly out into the crowd as he is frozen in pain... time slows down in Mesdoram’s mind as his pulse pounds inside his head and his heartrate races. Unbeknownst to the audience, a magically concealed Nariv had silently made her way onto the stage with Mesdoram’s earthly elemental brand, grabbed the drow on the left shoulder, and pierced Mesdoram through his right shoulder blade so forcefully that the tip of the sword protrudes through the drow’s right wrist. Twisting and grinding the blade as deep as possible, the shish-kabobbed Mesdoram can only mime silent screams of pain with every rotation from Nariv’s torturous and cruel suffering. After revealing herself completely to the audience, her next action is a heavy left knee-thrust to Mesdoram’s lower spine, causing the drow’s nervous system to spaz contorting his body in arch-like shape, the blade deepening into his small body as the sharp edge keeps rupturing more blood vessels and severing muscle tissue. Then, Nariv produces an eerie but melancholy acapella number in a hauntingly perfect pitch song to send audience and Mesdoram over the edge… “Twisting the sword so he bleeds in my hands… seeing the terror pour out from his veins… Watching his loved ones collapse to their knees… these are a few of my favorite things.” With an exclamation mark, a final right-footed heavy-booted kick contacts the base of Mesdoram’s spine and powerfully sends Mesdoram to the front of the stage – unskewering him in the process.

Mesdoram (4/5) || Face down and in tremendous agony, Mesdoram uses his good arm to pull himself away from Nariv – but something peculiar begins to manifest around Mesdoram’s body. With every inch Mesdoram manages to gain closer to the audience, a light blue silhouette outlines his body and begins transforming Mesdoram’s appearance: first, his drow attire dissipates entirely and leaves the man clothed only in a ragged pair of slave pants; next to go his alabaster hair and his silvery eyes as they turn back into blonde strands and brilliant elven blue; he also starts growing taller into his 5’11” height but loses his muscle mass to become an emancipate husk of an elf; finally as the broken Mesdoram manages to push himself upright and gets to his knees, his ebony skin fades back to a fair elven complexion. The hex has finally been broken – Mesdoram broke his end of the bargain with Nariv, and consequently Nariv intends to publicly punish both men. The audience now stares at a withered elven man where Mesdoram once stood and some may recognize the elf from the ethereal projections from the play: Hawkeye in the flesh.

Mesdoram (5/5) || As Hawkeye realizes he is freed from Nariv’s mental imprisonment and back to his normal self, the very broken-spirited elf begins sobbing and looks out into the audience - crying in-between every breath. “Oh my goodness…” The exhausted Hawkeye speaks for the first time in his elven voice – a much more docile tone from his drow counterpart. “… the silence… all the voices in my head are finally gone!” Hawk’s speech begins picking up emotional traction as euphoria floods his body with joy relief. “Fifteen years of constant voices berating my mind… the feeling of looking from the bottom of a well… they’re all gone…” Hawkeye uses his good hand and palpates several names still etched on collarbone; he also feels his forehead where an identical ‘SIN’ marking that many have seen on Nariv’s head. While Hawkeye is regaining his whereabouts, Nariv strides up gleefully to her elven slave and places the tip of the earthly blade on top of Hawkeye’s good shoulder. “Oh, Hawkeye…” Nariv true voice sinisterly begins to speaks loud enough for the audience. “… what am I going to do with you now?” Staring out into the audience, Nariv gages the reaction of several prominent members who she has interacted with. “These beautiful people came for a show! And the show must go on… and we must give the people what they want!” With that in mind, Nariv reaches into her dress and pulls out the results of the survey prepared by the worker who attended the gate and tallied up the answers. As she reads the recorded votes to herself, she smiles in approval and taps the tip of Hawkeye’s sword between his shoulder blades. “Well my love, the people have spoken… but before the results are published, I suppose we should give you some final words.” With the blade ready to pierce through Hawkeye’s upper back to severe his spine, Nariv stares evilly into the audience member and takes calculated consideration to stare at those who voted for Mesdoram’s death this evening. “Everyone deserves some last words, yes?” With those words spoken, Nariv allows the audience to stew over this latest development.

Meri :: Does Meri get any answers to any of her questions? NO. No she does not. She only ends up with more of them, and that is a detail that is inwardly driving Meri mad. Emphasis on inwardly. Outwardly, Meri reacts with the same tomfoolery she has always been prone to. She has been go good throughout this play, keeping her thoughts between herself and Magik. But now? Toward the end? After Nariv has stabbed Mesdoram? Who seems to have turned back into Hawkeye? Well Meri just sort of exclaims while pointing at Nariv, "Hey, maybe we should kill her where she stands instead." Why not.

Arlyeon is, essentially, a philistine. Here there is some deeply personal play putting someone's personal life on display (juicy, to be sure)- and she's more concerned with sampling what's available to snack on. Then again, that might be why she came armed with a tactically pocketed set of pants and shirt- if only because it meant she could squirrel away more munchable goodies on her person. Still, once she's made her arbitrary selection, she finds a spot to cozily lean against- so she can at least talk knowingly about one segment of the play later on.

Quintessa seems shocked. “Death?!” She hisses in a whisper. These people really voted to kill poor Mesdoram? The feline looks legitimately distraught. How is she going to get an autograph if he’s dead?

Mathollak is leaned forward as much as possible, not even exactly seated at this point. His butt hovers over his seat as he grips the back of the chair in front of him, wide eyed and enthralled. Absently he begins gnawing on the back of the seat as the play ensues (or does it?), desperate to see what happens next. A rare occassion where he can't even find the words to speak.

Khitti grimaced as attention was brought to her position at the balcony. Quickly, she put on a mask of calm to hide the bad feeling her claivoyancy was alerting her to, leaned over the railing and waved. As things progressed, the bad feeling only worsened, bringing tears to Khitti’s eyes. The unease and the haunting melody forced her to stand, bare feet planted on the wooden planks of the balcony beneath her, her hands on the railing. “Something’s wrong… Something feels very, very wrong about all of this.” Surely, it was just the play, right? This was all going to Mesdoram’s plan? This wasn’t anything bad. Surely? Truly? Maybe? Khitti just stood there, fixated on the scene, fighting with herself over whether or not this act was just that, an act. Anyone that caught a glance of the redhead would know right away by the look on her face that she was far from entertained by any of this.

Magikrios blinks. And blinks again. And again. He looks to Meri and frowns. He really wanted to kill Mesdoram where he stands but it seems like his freed slave, courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. Lyastri D'Chath, has beaten them to it. The timing has never really been quite right for them to go through with it. He does like Meri's idea though. Considering everything that has happened with the brief encounter with Nariv, it's all starting to make sense. For now, there's a soft applaud as he stares at Hawkeye and Nariv. His eyes then focus on Valrae for a moment to gauge her reaction. If this was an act, fine, but if someone is committing murder in public in Val's territory..Oh my.

Mesdoram (1/4) || Nariv gleefully gauges the crowds’ cornucopia of reactions especially that of Kanna and Brennia; she particularly loves the confusion created by her and Hawkeye’s coming out part. “Ladies and Gentlemen, it would appear that you have found Hawkeye very wanting for the time being.” She carefully tucks the survey back into her dress’ left inner pocket and takes away the sword from Hawkeye’s back. With Nariv standing next to the kneeling Hawkeye, Nariv addresses the crowd. “Despite this change of heart from some of you, I would like to remind you a few things: Though you may feel an ounce of pity for this pathetic man knelt before you, make no mistake: this is the same man who has caused you nothing but heartache and fear the past 2 years – me for 15 years! No matter what preconceived notions you possess, this is the man so many of you wish to… how do you say…” Nariv takes a moment to stare at Meri and Magik sitting together. “… kill him where he stands?” With a sarcastic wink to the couple, Nariv turns back to look down at Hawkeye. “But, since we are gathered here, why don’t we hear from the man himself and see if he should be given the same amount of mercy he’s given us… Hawkeye. The floor is yours.”

Mesdoram (2/4) || Hawkeye nervously looks up to Nariv: how ironic… the same look Nariv perpetually faked when begging for kindness now adorns Hawkeye’s face. Pushing through the fatigue, Hawkeye weakly and clumsily stands up to show the world his frail body; every rib and nearly every bone pressed and visible underneath his skin. The emaciated elf weakly and slowly staggers to the front of the stage as he uses his legs for the first time in 15 years. While dragging his wither frame to face the music, he weakly grabs his right wrist to help support his useless and wounded arm; the damage to his mangled shoulder has made his arm a heavy, heavy anchor. The hole created over his collar bone bleeds over one of his original inscribed scars – ‘Karasu’ written in the woman’s native language. The blood trail travels poetically across ‘Karasu’ almost as if Hawkeye’s body is sorrowful and crying tears of blood full of regret… After staring at his injury and Karasu’s name, Hawk takes a deep inhale and looks out into the audience to face the music.

Lita does not have an answer for Mahri. She'd have expected something like this if their guild had been in charge of the play, maybe. They tended towards general chaos. But stabbing? Changing? Was any of this actually part of the plays intention? She flickers a glance towards Meri and then over her shoulder, searching up to the balcony where Leo and Lora are watching the show. "No idea..." she muses in answer to Mahri. She's not the only one with a concealed blade and Lita shifts a hand to the she-wolf's shoulder with a gentle squeeze.

Mesdoram (3/4) || “Friends…” Sudden shame immediately fills Hawkeye’s soul; the weight of his fallen friends that have long since died causes him to wince away and looks down at his feet. “… I do not know how I can possibly explain what my life has been like… trapped inside my own consciousness dormant and silent… only able to manifest in memories and dreams… not the master of my own actions… to speak for myself…” An enormous wave of regret and anxiety floods Hawkeye’s frail body, but he musters up the strength to look back into the crowd with a few fresh trails of tears visible on his thin face. “… It is true that Mesdoram and I share this body… it was not always so, and I don’t know how I can properly explain how this with what little time I may have left… but I will try…” Nariv playfully and rhythmically taps the tip of the sword on the stage’s surface, preforming an eerie metronome ticking sound as Hawkeye explains. “… Mesdoram was… is… my punishment… a manifestation of my brutal side when I tore through these lands looking for revenge… he was made to conceal and carry out the twisted plans of -” An annoyed Nariv slams the sword down causing Hawkeye to be intimidated for a second... “…but I cannot run from my responsibility and the horrors Mes-“ Hawkeye’s stamina is rapidly draining and the audience can now see his feeble legs begin to quake; struggling to keep his slender body upright, Hawkeye pushes through his guilt. “… no, not the horrors Mesdoram has caused… the horrors we have caused… I am just as responsible as he is despite both of our protests… I can only hope –“

Mesdoram (4/4) || Hawkeye’s body finally gives way and collapses suddenly onto the stage; he did manage to brace himself with his good hand and did not face plant himself into the wood. Effectively kneeling again, Hawkeye continues “… I can only hope that through our resistance to Nariv… I was able to show some of you a kinder side of Mes… I hope some of you… saw me through Mesdoram’s… oddities... his antic and peculiar actions is him resisting the commands of Nariv… despite his devil-like front, Mesdoram is as much the victim… he’s not even a true drow… not born to the UnderDark… but conceived inside my mind and brought to life out of dark magic…” Tears no longer confine themselves in Hawkeye’s sapphire eyes as the overwhelming sorrow pours through the broken man’s tear ducts. “... I deserve death ten times over for what I and Mes have done… and that death may be arriving soon…” Nariv can be seen laughing silently behind Hawkeye as he spins his pathetic tale, almost smiling at the prospect of Hawkeye’s death; this disrespect fills Hawkeye with determination to address Nariv now. Hawkeye manages to turn his head to address the taunting Nariv and speaks harshly towards the elven woman. “But for your Keiran? I will NEVER be sorry. You made me a prisoner inside my OWN body, marched Mesdoram out to be your sacrificial lamb, and flooded our minds with deceit and misery for 15 years and we STILL defy you…” Nariv does not sour her face, but dawns a ‘Oh really, now?” expression as Hawkeye verbally attacks her. “You are beyond innocent, you witch, and even when Mesdoram and I are gone, we have exposed to these people who you really are… not some naïve elf slave girl, but evil incardinate, you devil! WHY DON’T YOU TELL THEM THE TRUTH?!” Almost catching his second wind, Hawkeye begins driving his final nail home and points to his tormentor. “TELL THEM HOW YOU PUT THE WORDS IN HIS HEAD AND DROVE MESDORAM MAD!? THE WORDS THAT MADE HIM… PLUDGE HIS DAGGERS INTO OUR BROTHER!!!” Pure hatred seeps from Hawkeye’s mouth as he stares angrily towards Nariv… breathing heavily from pure rage, he takes very… very deep breaths to calm himself as the audience soaks in this revelation of his brother Vexar.

Loravelle wished she could stomach more than a few bites of carrot cake then, along with the whiskey. Even if the combination might be odd. “T-thank you,” she stammers to Khitti, accepting the plate of cake. The first few forkfuls she does eat are delicious, but she sets the plate and fork down on one of the balcony's chairs so she can remain alongside Leo. His touch is a relief, and she does eventually turn away and hide her face momentarily against his chest. She doesn't quite understand what's going on, and didn't look too keen on learning, but Khitti's words are cause for alarm. Something is wrong? Great. She's probably the only person in that audience that lacked a weapon to defend herself if they all truly were in danger... The shouting is enough to have her practically leap out of her skin. She mutters a curse.

Meri was actually pretty sure that this was not part of the act. She was pretty serious about her suggestion that they kill Nariv where she stands and the more the blonde watches on, the worse she feels about sitting there and doing nothing while she is pretty sure a man is dying on stage in front of her. Yes, Magik and Meri might want to kill him where he stands, but THEY wanted to do that. Not Nariv. So ever so casually the telekinetically inclined woman stands up and uses her lovely mind powers to fling her now vacant seat right at Nariv. And that was just the start. The tables filled with off Khitti's lovely cooking? Those are next. Sorry Khitti. Meri would pay for the damages, but right now she is just trying to lay some sort of onslaught onto Nariv. Maybe someone else could grab Mesdoram-Hawkeye from the stage during this.

Kanna feels her mouth drop open and her hands fall to her side. The same Vexar she had dueled at the winter tournament had passed away, and by his own brother's hand? How had no one spoken of this? How had she not heard of this?! She winces as her eyes trail over the familiar language that her sister had carved unto him some years ago. It was only a small blessing that she were not here now, but she knows that word will travel quickly. Kanna takes a deep breath to steady herself, involuntarily taking in the scents of the gothic roses, the sweat beading on the audience-goer's bodies, the coppery blood dripping off of the raised platform, the gardenia-lilac perfume she had left with Quintessa... wait, was that a trick of her mind? Kanna furrows her brows, trying to will the familiar scent away as she tries to understand what is happening and understand the reactions of those around her.

Mahri || Lita will feel the wolf's barely contained anxiety beneath that hand, her muscles tense and ready to spring into action. Her attention is fluctuating between the stage and the audience, watching for reactions from which to gauge her own. This did not seem to be part of the acting she had expected to watch this evening.

Magikrios is quick to stand as Meri does but doesn't react yet. He grabs Meri by her arm and lets out an audible, "Wait." Meanwhile, Magikrios' left hand hangs at his side, palm starting to drip blood out of sight. His eyes blaze furiously as he stares down Nariv. Meri's right. THEY were supposed to kill him where he stands. Now he's on his knees. This is madness.

Arlyeon is going to chalk up her decision to pilfer the assortment of goodies she had (even if it does mean there's slightly smooshed bits of carrot cake in her pockets, to an overall stroke of good luck. After all, it seemed like her chances of getting free seconds were now slim to none- given the table was being flung at the stage. Today was the -best-. The only question was- she was far from the other rogue here, so what was the gig, if any? It's a good question, and one that has the foxkin casually making her way towards wherever Lita is- with the only pause being the time it takes Ina to steal a nagarita from a passerby. "Howdy. So, uh- ? Fancy seein' ya 'ere." She can take notes from the people who actually have a moral compass. That's the ticket.

Kanna jumps when Meri begins her onslaught, and stares dumbly for a moment. She raises her arm again and wills the plants to breach the barrier and separate the man who both was and was not Mesdoram from Nariv. Only, the rose stems burst into flames upon reaching the edge of the stage, rendering her ability useless here. "Oh no..." Maybe sonic magic might do something, but without her pipe, she cannot control the movement and spare everyone else from it's effects. Kanna is helpless to watch the last of this horrific act play out.

Khitti || The dual nature of Mesdoram and Hawkeye shook Khitti to her core. It hit too close to home. Twice now, in her life, she’d been forced to share her body with another being; first Amarrah and now Khitt. The redhead was practically strangling the railing of the balcony now as she watched, listening to Hawkeye’s explanation and his accusations towards Nariv. And if this were all true? Khitti felt anger wash over her. Rage for being tricked by that woman, for her putting both Mesdoram and Hawkeye through things that neither of them deserved. “NARIV.” Her tone was sharp, violent. The only thing keeping Khitti from not setting that woman on fire was the repercussion that everyone in the audience would immediately feel, as well as the destruction of her precious garden.

Reginae has her guards keep a hold on Brennia in case she gets any crazy ideas about going through the barrier. Meri's hurling her seat and tables at the stage and Reginae's lovely flower looks almost as panicked as Brennia. She's dreadfully curious how this scene would end, panic of her pets aside.

Mesdoram (1/4) || Visibly exhausted and his vigor running on fumes, Hawkeye turns back to the audience some of his final words. “She drove him mad… all the time… the only thing that dulled her impact was the whiskey… she drove a wedge in between the three of us and… tortured and tricked Mesdoram to fatally wound Vexar, and - “At the mention of ‘Vexar,’ Hawkeye’s mouth all but shuts as his face abruptly tilts right… and the audience begins to smell the faint scent of burning flesh and boiling blood. Through gritted teeth, Hawkeye’s frail frame twitches: not in insanity, but in copious amounts of pain. Little did the audience know, Hawkeye has just broken the final clause of his hex by speaking his brother’s name, and will now suffer a series of unimaginable pain before the crowd’s eyes. Hawkeye screams an ear-piercing wail through gritted teeth as visible pain radiates from Hawkeye’s bottom left rib. “GRRRRR!” Hawkeye writhes and falls to his good elbow as the name ‘Vexar’ begins being burned into his paper-thin skin as if an invisible red-hot brand had stuck his rib. Hawkeye pushes through the pain hoping to confess his sins before being put to death. “I’M SORRY VEXAR!! I.. We didn’t want to kill you! We tried to stop her…” While his breathing becomes more sporadic, Hawkeye catches a glimpse of Meri and Magik in the audience “Meri… Magik…my old friend… – GRRAAH!!”

Meri heard Magik tell her to wait just a little to late. She might have listened to her husband at least, but look...it's Meri. What does he expect from her? He knew what he married.

Mesdoram (2/4) || This time, the scorching pain from Nariv’s hex burns Meri’s and Magik’s name vertically along the left and right side of Hawkeye’s neck like a powerful pressing machine. This malevolent curse continues its crescendos into the grand finale as now the seared flesh from the elf is now smoking. “I will get through this, Nariv, in spite of what you throw at me!” Hawkeye boldly calls out Nariv knowing the pain he is about to endure. “To everyone that Mes and I have - AHHHHH!!” The final act of Nariv’s hex springs into action upon the word ‘everyone.’ Every inch of Hawkeye’s body begins burning as 50 names simultaneously sketch themselves into Hawkeye’s skin; all those Hawkeye failed to save from Nariv’s treachery becoming legible on his legs, arms, and stomach. Through gritted teeth, Hawkeye calls out in desperation and franticly asks everyone’s forgiveness. “Leralynn! I would never have let Nariv kill you… Quintessa… we NEVER would have let you be hunted! NOO! AHH! KHITTI! LEO! ELANOR! KARASU!! AAAAAHHHH!!! KHITT! DEMI! MOVDON! BROTHER!! VEXAR!! ATROPOS!! I’M SORRY!!” The screams are deafening with every painful stroke penning on Hawkeye until finally collapses…. Silence fills the Gothic Garden… Hawkeye, still alive, has paid for his Sins… for the time being.

Mesdoram (3/4) || Large amounts of smoke steams off of his fallen body and acts like smokescreen concealing Hawkeye’s stationary state. After the dust settles, a slow clapping Nariv breaks the quiet. “Well now that was beautiful and all, Hawkeye, but today isn’t about your pathetic existence.” Nariv strolls over tediously over to the fallen elf, soaking up every second of this development. “It’s about ‘ending’ your worthless life – and for that, we will need our adorable devil I’ve created within you.” Nariv sadistically turns to address the audience before revealing the piece-de-resistance. “Are we ready for the grand finale my friends?! We all had a part to play in this wonderful production, and I must say you played your part flawlessly! You fools really believed me a pathetic and a slave? HA!! I am the mastermind behind these two morons… but let’s bring evening to its climax, shall we?” With those words said, she yanks Hawkeye by his blond hair and dangles him upwards for the crowd to see. Still smoking a bit, the crowd does not see Nariv’s free hand easily phase into Hawkeye’s back to find his counterpart’s metaphysical body. Pausing for theatrics and cackling loudly, she pulls Hawkeye to her right and physically pulls Mesdoram’s astral body out of Hawkeye!! For a brief moment, both men shriek loudly in pain during the removal process until the drow’s spiritual form is standing on the stage while Hawkeye is tossed carelessly unto his backside. Unscathed and uninjured, It only takes a second for Mesdoram’s ethereal form to start materializing into the devilish drow everyone has come to love and know… or loathe and despise. But something is truly very unsettlingly in this Mesdoram’s demeanor... There is no jest in his eyes… there is no life in his eyes… his body language stands stoic absent all quirky mannerisms… the drow is stoned face, and the lack of emotion for the usually unorthodox drow sends a terrifying chill through the spines of the audience: Mesdoram’s first taste being full blooded drow consumes his psyche. Devoid of any of Hawkeye’s moral influence and gentle nature, a frightening evil creature begins flexing his fingers as he gets acclimated to his new drow body… and stares emotionlessly down towards the weakened Hawkeye.

Mesdoram (4/4) || Nariv, the mastermind of this playwright, breaks the tension and lays out the stakes for this terrible finale. “And here we are! Our metaphoric masterpiece has reached its crescendo! Of the two sides to this coin, who is the more deserving man of life!? Hawkeye: the despicable piece of filth who is responsible for us being here; or the delightful drow bread for glorious greatness … MESDORAM!!” Nariv walks over to her chosen champion to further hype of the anticipation. “Now we will watch as the mighty Mesdoram take arms against his former self and fulfils his purpose! Drow of devastation! Take your place at my side, but only after you KILL Hawkeye! Severe the ties of your weaker counterpart, obliterate any remorse and compassion lingering inside, and together SIN’S RESURGANCES CAN COMMENCE! Annihilate you past and embrace your future: my ‘angel’ of destruction!” With her declaration of ‘angel,’ this sinister Nariv seeks out to where Brennia currently is and offers a playful wink to the lovesticken avian. There is no expressiveness in Mesdoram’s cold eyes… only obedience as he immediately produces one of his elemental dirks from his right hip’s scabbard, staring coldly at his target Hawkeye, and takes long tediously strides closer to Hawkeye… the fallen elf only offering a shaking head in hopes Mesdoram does not carry out the deed…

Mathollak said, "I'm beginning to get some seriously bad vibes from this Nariv person."

Valrae frowns as she tries to puzzle together what was unfolding before them. And then tables and chairs were flying. Her guards were shouting, snatching her up from her chair and spilling all of her food… The witch attempts to calm them, insisting that they didn’t need to raise the alarms yet despite the familiar magic of a curse charging the air. She watched helplessly as the barrier thwarted any attempts made to stop the agony the man was subjected to under his curse. A particularly nasty one, all things apparent. Cursing, Valrae’s hands twitch uselessly at her sides as the scene continues and the two souls are ripped apart. Her dark eyes narrowed on Nariv. If any actual murder was taking place on that stage next, and this wasn't part of an act, they didn’t have long before a swarm of Cenrili Guards came into Khitti’s pretty garden to arrest whoever was left standing on that stage.

Meri 's initial attempt to fling furniture at Nariv is an utter failure. The airborn tables and chairs just end up splintering and then being reduced to ash the moment they connect with the barrier meant to keep audience off the stage. Mesdoram thought he was keeping the crowd in check, but it seems that he was only securing his own demise. Meri looked toward Magik, noticing the bloodied palm and knowing full well what that meant. But. Could any attack they tried to land even make it through the barrier? Meri thought not, but standing there and trying nothing felt wrong. Watching a man be executed with no trial or jury felt wrong.

Lita has no idea what is going on on that stage but she can't look away. Even as Meri is hurling seats and tables and a mess of sweets at the magical barrier surrounding that stage. Half the crowd is on their feet, the other half seem to be stuck in emotional states and here is Trix, sidling up with drink in hand. Lita offers the girl a grin and a nod in greeting, but wishes she would have brought drinks to share. "Seems the place to be just now." She manages, a bit ridiculously, given the state of the place. But she hasn't much stake in this game, no idea of its cast or players. She just enjoys a good show.

Brennia listens to Hawkeye, smiling proudly for standing up to Nariv finally and then she sobs, wishing she could do anything at all if it weren't for this damn barrier. The guards pull Brennia under them when seats and tables start to get flung above their heads. She watches as Mesdoram rematerialized. Hope soars in her soul, but the orders given and his demeanor are increasingly troubling. The bard is still on her knees as she looks up at the stage, "Mesdoram! My Sapphire… My love," she starts to shout the familiar vows they took not two days ago. "Please," she pleads. "Don't do it! You know deep down you'll never be able to live with yourself!"

Leoxander picked up his compound bow at that point, having to release Loravelle to do so. An arrow slid from the quiver at his lower back and his wrapped left hand tightened grip on the handhold of the weapon. His expression betrayed no panic, nor anger, but perhaps a small amount of the usual annoyance. Nocking his ammunition loosely on that metal woven string, he didn’t draw back just yet but was ready for the opportunity to bring the performance to an end. Khitti’s call of name caused him to speak low to the garden’s owner. “The girl..? You’re sure? What if he’s makin’ her do this?” Steeled eyes darted back and forth between Hawkeye, Mesdoram, and Nariv.

Mahri 's eyes seach the stage, looking for a weakness perhaps in that sheild, or even a way to drop it. She has no idea the history here, but she knows that no one deserves whatever this Hawkeye is getting or been getting from this Nariv person. She felt the magic of another and saw the flora hitting the field guarding the stage and she wondered... was it a full sphere? Borrowing the root system from Khitti's lovely garden, she bids them, eyes closing now, to dig deeper and grow, to tunnel towards the stage and under if at all possible, and come up behind Nariv and the Drow, intending to restrain both from neck to ankles.

Mesdoram (1/3) || Hawkeye will not beg for his life to his brother-in-arms Mesdoram; the heavily scarred and injured Hawk will not try to run nor ask for assistance from the audience. The elven man does hold out his hand like a stop sign… but not to Mesdoram, but to the audience; hoping everyone remembers the magical barrier which will protects the ‘performers’ of this play, the younger Quisto brother accepts his fate and address the audience one final time. “My friends… Magik… it is so good to seeing you again in the Sage forest with your wife… I thought you had passed so long ago… punching above your weight class, eh champ?” Even moments away from death, Hawkeye gets in one last joke. “My friends… Please do not see Mesdoram as the monster Nariv has created him to be. There is love in his heart, and I have seen it personally being trapped in his mind for 15 years… please do not deem him unwanted…” With his final words spoken to the crowd, he now looks to names carved onto his torso… mental flashbacks crosses his mind as he lovingly remembers his fallen brethren he could not save, sees the name of ‘Atropos’, and friends still alive he wish he could see one last time… but now Hawkeye to speaks to his compadre and other half… “Mesdoram… of all these names burned into my flesh, yours is not amongst them… but I want you to know my friend… I have indeed failed you… I can only fathom a microcosm of pain Nariv has inflicted unto you… to be brought into this world only knowing hate must be heartbreaking…. You’re my brother Mesdoram… I love you…” Hawkeye has said his peace and says a small elven pray for Mesdoram, hoping he will find the belonging he so desires after Hawk has died…

Arlyeon said to Lita, "Ja know- wit' everyone rarin' ta go at tha' players on stage. Ja think it might be worthwhile ta' snag one of 'em if tha' opportunity presents. Seems like they're gonna have a slew of ..uh, " The foxkin glances about the rows of upset theater goers, the murmured cries for guards, the clatter of broken wood hitting the ground, "adorin' fans. Might be in high demand, fer' tha' priviledge ta see em, yeah?"

Mesdoram (2/3) || But Mesdoram’s face remains unchanged by Hawkeye’s words: no eye twitch nor even a facial tick throughout his elven brother’s sincere soliloquy. However, Nariv finds every word spoken from Hawkeye hilarious and pathetic; the woman cannot help herself from rejoicing with glee at Hawkeye’s imminent death. “Well, Hawkeye… it has been fun indeed, but now your day of judgement has arrived... and you, Mesdoram?” The drow has been standing between the collapsed Hawkeye and his creator Nariv as the two elves literally play ‘devil/angel’ on his shoulders. Mesdoram’s cold expressionless face stares plainly down at Hawk... his weapon held with a deadly purpose… ready to fulfill his destiny. During this intense stare down, a grinning Nariv speaks telepathically to her prized possession. “I’m so proud of you, my love… we will do great things together.” Those words rattle inside Mes’ mind for a moment… but no more words will be spoken from these three until Mesdoram delivers the killing blow… and Mesdoram does just that. Upon the completion of Nariv’s telepathic message, Mesdoram wastes no more time: tightening the grip of his elemental dirk, the nerves of every muscle tenses up in his new tiny drow’s body; his alabaster hair flows wildly as he suddenly maneuvers his body into an athletic stance ready to deliver the deadly blow; and with great accuracy and precise prowess, Mesdoram’s takes a vicious sideways slash… slicing Nariv’s exposed throat like a PEZ dispenser.

Mesdoram (3/3) || The drow doesn’t look in Nariv’s direction nor will he ever again – his days of being ordered and tortured from this witch are over. Completing his theatrical follow through, Mesdoram’s arial slash flings splatters of deeply rich red blood towards Hawkeye’s feet and across the stage floor– Hawkeye cannot believe it as he adorns an aghast expression much like several prominent audience members; but below the surfaces of his shock, there is a semblance of absolute relief: not because Mesdoram choice to kill Nariv, but because his influence and kind ways of others have bled into Mesdoram’s frigid and evil personality… causing Mesdoram to reject his default drow nature. Nariv’s expression is that of pure shock as she frantically clasps her mortal wound hoping to stop the copious amounts of blood from leaving her body… but the damage is devastating and will prove fatal to this trickster. “… Mes… Mes… dor… ram?” Are Nariv’s final words in this realm as she drops to her knees, blood gushing from both jugulars and inbetween her fingers… her pale white skin turns even whiter before face planting and suffocating… choking on her own blood as her heart frantically pumps harder and harder to compensate… but to no avail… Nariv and her reign of manipulating Mesdoram and confiding Hawkeye into a mental prison is over. Nariv is dead… never to control Mes or torture Hawkeye again. Standing emotionless, Mesdoram simply stares down at Nariv’s blood pooling under his feet: the silence is so that you can hear a pin drop… the audience starts to process the events that have unfolded…

Loravelle may be frightened, but she's wise enough to know to step out of the way of someone drawing an arrow. She quickly steps away from Leo, then takes several steps back to remain out of his way, and perhaps Khitti's as well if she had weapons on her as well. Taking up arms of any sort is out of the former maidservant's wheelhouse, but there is the fork on the plate of unfinished carrot cake nearby... She picks it up, even if it is a bit ridiculous, licking away some of the frosting on its tines before holding it in a white-knuckled grip in one hand. ...She then promptly drops it, stomach turning with utter disgust at the sight of a throat being slit. Her hand clutches at her stomach then, and she considers turning to find somewhere convenient to retch.

Khitti || As Leo spoke, Khitti turned angry eyes towards the lycan, and spied that compound bow of his as he got it ready. She gave him an incredulous look like ‘bruh, did you bring a bow into my goddamned house?’ but ultimately shoved that aside, returning to the task at hand. “Khitt saw Hawkeye’s blue eyes just before he dropped Mesdoram, during the duel. I’m certain that Nariv is just as much of a snake as that goddamned queen down there is. I can -feel- it.” She put out a hand towards Leo’s bow, setting the tip of the arrow alight with purple flames. No, she wasn’t sabotaging him--she was -helping- him. “Wait though. Just wait. You can’t do anything with that barrier up, at any rate. Meri’s proved that for us already.” The redhead turned her attention back towards the stage and gritted her teeth, starting the turn some of that rage of hers against herself, for allowing this to happen in the first place.

Meri still hates drow. Make no mistake. But! When Mesdoram murders Nariv rather than Hawkeye, Meri shouts in a very unladylike manner. "Yeah! That's right! You kill her where she stands!" Who would have ever thought Meri would have cheered Mesdoram on? Not Meri. It may never happen again either. But in this moment, it did, and there are event witnesses to prove it!

Lita said to Arlyeon, "You know if more plays wound up like this, some of us might come more often."

Mathollak said, "BRO I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING"

Arlyeon cups her hands and shouts to the stage, "DOUBLE TAP TO MAKE SURE!"

Arlyeon said to Lita, "I know, right?"

Quintessa is beyond ecstatic. She sat near the stage so she got a good view of Nariv’s throat slashed open like a pork cutlet. She has to contain herself from squealing with glee with a tiny spray of blood softly caresses her face. Yes! This was a perfect finale. She even has to hold back from breaking out in applause, but if someone else starts it first she won’t be able to resist any longer.

Magikrios has never felt as useless as he does right now. With that barrier up, what could he even do? As Hawkeye spoke directly to him, the Lyastri managed the slightest of smiles towards the elven man. That smile quickly faded as he watches Nariv and Mesdoram. Black smoke started plumming off of the Lyastri as his palm started dripping even more blood. Mes and Nariv are going to be killed where they stand. Or..Not. As Mesdoram makes his move but ends up slitting Nariv's throat instead, Magik blurts out a, "Holy sh-" There's a scream from a random woman in the audience as Mes KILLS NARIV WHERE SHE STANDS.

Meri happens to catch a glance of the face Lita makes her way, responding with a most innocent wink to her vampire friend. Then back to making sure Nariv is indeed nice and dead. And to think once Meri was trying to "save" Nariv from Mesdoram. Tsk. Tsk.

Mesdoram (1/4) || Upon Nariv’s death, the magical barrier raises up like a curtain call and dissipates in a dome-shape fashion, giving no more obstacles from audience interference anymore. Fresh rich blood drips from Mesdoram’s dirk as the drow still coldly stares at Hawkeye… but something begins to soften in Mes’ presentation… his scowl retreats as he reads the names on Hawkeye’s body; a wave shame and guilt begins consumes his tiny body. Mesdoram then turns to the audience and sees the many people he has encountered during the past 2 years: Meri, Magik, Brennia, Khitti, Leo, Reganie… and now dawns absolute regret on his face. In front of all people Mesdoram has encountered during his time back in these lands, he is rejecting the evilness Nariv infects in his personality; despite the true demonic nature coursing through his veins, Mesdoram does not want that life for himself. “I… I…” Mesdoram speaks freely for the first time to the people attending the play… but something is off in Mesdoram’s demeanor as tremendous sadness and remorse fills his body language. “… I am… unredeemable...” Mesdoram cryptically speaks out to the crowd… and brings the blood-soaked dagger up to his throat... the sharp edge dangling precariously close to his jugular. This unprompted action leaves Hawkeye terrified as what Mesdoram is thinking… “Mes… no…” the elven man manages to muster up to a clearly broken Mesdoram. A tear falls from the drow’s eyes as he brought his blade is inches from his throat… a blade responsible for ending so much life; the dirk shakes as the man’s emotions overwhelms him, wishing there was a way he could take back every terrible thing he’s done… but he doesn’t believe he will ever make amends with his peers. Mesdoram looks out into the crowd as miniature flashbacks play inside his mind of his misdeeds and horrific acts his two hands have carried out… “I am… unforgivable…” Mesdoram looks back to Hawkeye one last time… he sees at the names of the people he has hurt, maimed, and killed… but he fixates on Karasu’s name etched in Hawkeye’s flesh, and is reminded of the consequence that must be carried out. “I… broke my promise, Kara…su…” Mes no longer fights backs any tears as his emotion spills from both eyes. With those his final words, Mesdoram turns back to the audience, closes his eyes, and --- ”

Khitti just stared at the stage as Mesdoram… killed Nariv? “WHAT THE FRAK.” She said this over and over again in varying levels of confusion, anger, and appreciation. It’s almost like she was going through the 5 stages of grief because she couldn’t kill Nariv herself.

Mathollak said, "I called it. I knew Nariv was bad news. Looks like we got a happy ending though. Coulda been a little more romance but maybe in the sequel I guess right?"

Leoxander answered Khitti with his eyes on the stage and the weapon still in hand. “No…” He hadn’t brought a crossbow. “It’s a compound bow.” But it seemed it wouldn’t be needed as he emotionlessly watched Nariv’s hold that last shocked expression and collapse to the foundation. The tip of that arrow was licked with some of Khitti’s violet fire but he waited, not only because of her command but because Mesdoram seemed to be handling the situation. “I saw it, too… when I pulled him out.”

Mesdoram (2/4) || “STOP!!!” A desperate Hawkeye shouts to Mesdoram and musters every bit of energy he has left to stand on his frail legs: the sudden exclamation from Hawkeye does cause Mesdoram to cease his actions as the drow now looks to Hawk – tears soaking Mes’ eyes. “Mesdoram… my brother.” From his sitting position, Hawk now holds the magical box used to project the previous performances. “I know you, Mes. You are not the evil man she forced you to be! Ruthless when you need to be, yes, but nothing for pure pleasure!” After an emotional plea to his brother, Hawkeye lowers his tone fearing the volume of his voice will push the anxious Mesdoram over the edge... “You have been controlled all your life, never able to make any choice on your own without manipulation… but even then, you fought her every step of the way…” Mes stares with a broken spirit towards Hawkeye who still won’t remove the weapon from his throat. Hawkeye softens his voice even more, but still loud enough for the audience to hear. “But no more killing, please Mesdoram – that includes you… please my friend.” Hawkeye’s voice becoming increasingly more docile as he preps the magical box. “I won’t tell you what to do, Mes, but please… let me show them…” Hawkeye motions to the audience who are hanging on every word. “… let me show them who you really are…” Calibrating the device correctly now, Hawkeye touches the side of his father’s ceramic elven box with the other elemental dirk. Slowly but surely, the box produces the laser-like effect from the earlier acts, and the audience is shown a montage of Mesdoram’s inner workings…

Mesdoram (3/4) || The first astral projection portrays Mesdoram’s and Nariv’s first returning to these lands as the two stand outside the Kelay Way tavern… a much more reserved Mesdoram speaks to Nariv. “I will play the part of a villain, Nari… but in exchange... my family nor any of Hawk’s friends are to be harmed…” A snickering Nariv giggles into her hand before agreeing. “But of course, my precious creature...” As the orange images transform into the next event, the audience is shown the dueling contest between Mesdoram and Karasu; as Karasu slashes and transcribes her name into Mesdoram’s flesh, the audience can hear a sadistic Nariv mouthing and telepathically feeding Mesdoram his script to repeat to Karasu… “Her name shall be Wrath, Mes… say it!” But before Karasu finishes writing her name, the orange astral images fade and then fasts forward to Mesdoram and Nariv arguing in his shanty house in Trist’oth; the drow violently throws several empty whiskey bottles into the Trist’oth’s tavern wall while exclaiming. “You TOLD ME Vex would not be harmed!!” Followed by a snickering Nariv. “Oh, poor naïve Mes… you needed to be reminded whose really in charge.” The image then pans and returns in the Kelay Way Tavern with Mesdoram and Nariv again in an intense standoff. After slamming one of his daggers onto the tavern floor, an irate Mesdoram screams in Nariv’s face. “If that’s what you want written, do it yourself: bathe in your own shortcomings, Nariv!” As the drow storms out the tavern, audience members are shocked to see Nariv pick up the weapon and begin cutting into her own forehead… carving her signature ‘SIN’ tattoo herself while using her own elven blood to write on Mesthak’s board – moments later, an unsuspecting Meri enters the tavern to read the messages that motivate her to track down Mesdoram… while a menacing Nariv sits comfortably at the bar…

Mesdoram (4/4) || Another panoramic view shifts the ethereal images forward and displays a montage of Mesdoram drinking his whiskey profusely while out in large crowds; surely the audience remembers the multitude of times this drunken drow has made a fool of himself, but what they can now hear from his mind the distinct voice of Nariv feeding him horrific lines of ‘Kill them now. What are you waiting for?’ ‘Every second you disobey me is another punishment for you and Hawkeye…’ Two more shifts of scenery will occur in this montage; the audience now sees Mesdoram… alone and cold in the UnderDark rocking back and forth in his makeshift house… appearing to be crying as Nariv pets his alabaster hair while talking down to the drow. “I had to end that dream with your angel… you are not following orders… love can make you do crazy things… and now that I know you love her… disobey me again, and I will rip her heart out in front of you…” Not daring to look up, the distraught drow just rocks and contemplates a life without Brennia… a clearly defeated drow devastated by Nariv’s threats. And for the final impactful performance: a dangling Leralynn struggles in pain with Mesdoram’s blade next to her throat during the Vailkrin Blood Bowl – the audience has Mesdoram’s vantage point and will see who he was berating that day. Sitting just over Quintessa and the other tournament directors, Nariv is perched a couple of rows higher and begins feeding Mesdoram instructions telepathically for the audience to hear. “Good fight my love… Kill this child now, and Sin’s Resurgence will commence.” But instead of killing Leralynn, Mesdoram shouts those familiar words from his duel. “IS THIS WHAT YOU WANT!!! YOU WANT BLOOD!?” Disobeying his master, Mesdoram drops Leralynn in defiance of Nariv instructions as he yells his final taunt. “… Shame on you ALL!!” and whispers the hushed words of encouragement for the to the young girl that the audience can now hear. “You are braver than any adult up there, child…” Mesdoram then coldly glares up into the crowd as he stares daggers at Nariv before delivering his final taunt to his tormentor… “Next time, bring your ‘A’ game…’ The lasting image before Hawkeye lets the images fade is Mesdoram staring up at a clearly irate Nariv, seemingly concocting the appropriate punishment before all the astral images dissipate completely… leaving the stage empty besides Hawkeye, Mesdoram, and a dead Nariv…

Arlyeon 's sloshing the drink around a bit as she gets wrapped up in the show, but her shout just means it's closer to her mouth- enough so that she can get a good swig of it before Lita pilfers it from her hands, "'s good stuff." The drink, or the murder? "Anyways, Wanna see if there's a dressin' room ta toss before tha' local bacon rolls up n' makes a mess a' things? Not like Nareeev is using anythin'. or gonna be Bereeeeaved."

Mahri 's eyes were still closed but she felt the roots break through the wood of the stage and opens her eyes to find the female dead, blood pooling and spilling off the stage and now the drow there with a dagger to his throat. The dirt covered roots wave in the air, as uncertain as the wolf as to what to do in that moment. Mahri looks to Lita, maybe for guidance, but she's talking to Trix instead. Looking through the crowd and boxes to find Leo ready, she'll wait as well before letting the root-system she commandeered go.

Meri was still standing on her feet by the time Hawkeye began to reveal the audience what things have been like from Mesdoram's perspective. Was Meri fully prepared to accept it? Eh, she might need to think on much of what she has seen. The only real conclusion that she has managed to come to during this event is that Nariv needed to die. As for the rest of it? Time will tell. While Meri might not be seated anymore, due to her outburst where she tried to psionically fling her chair at Nariv, the blonde does move closer to her husband again. There she was silent-ish again, probably reflecting on everything. This was quite a dramatic date night for the couple.

Lita is taking a drink of Trix's concoction. Probably should ask what it is first, knowing her previous mixology skills, but too late now. If the viewing of this play demands anything, it is liquor. "Might not be a bad idea to find a back way out of here." Wouldn't be long before the authorities showed, especially with Val in that crowd, and she'd no doubt they were all packin' some heat. She leans over to Mahri then, the backs of her fingers caressing at the woman's bare shoulder. "You wanna find Leo an' 'em? They're in a fancy box someplace. We'll get a back way out?" She offers Mahri a wink and another kiss on the cheek before slipping from her seat. She takes another gulp of Trix's drink and hands it back. "Dibs on anything with rubiess."

Leoxander | Khitti and Lora would hear the sound of a tightening string as Leo raised his brow to aim in Mesdoram’s general direction and held that archer’s stance, his eyes slightly narrowing for a specific point on that target. He wasn’t certain what Khitti’s fire would do but if it was deadly, she might take that moment he hesitated to snuff it out. It seemed Mesdoram was making his final choice, but the rogue had aim for the wrist of the hand that held the knife, waiting and ready.

Magikrios quickly says to Meri, "Keep your eyes on him," regardless of what was just shown on the magical box that Hawk has in his hands. Magikrios quickly scrambles onto the stage to join Hawkeye by his side. Magik's eyes lock onto Mesdoram for a solid moment. Trusting the drow won't advance towards them, Magik speaks quietly to Hawkeye, "I can't believe you're you.." Magik shakes his head and quietly asks, "Is that bit true? About Vexar? Is he gone?" Before Hawk can answer, he looks up to Mesdoram and offers him the slightest of nods. What the hell just happened here?

Khitti gave a wave of her hand and snuffed out the flames on Leo’s bow. The redhead had fallen silent, much like her sister had down below, and eventually sighed. She sank down into her armchair again, her arms and legs like jello after holding in all that tension from watching the events that unfolded in front of all of them. Now she had to wonder if Nariv was well and truly dead… The signs of all of this happening had been in front of everyone and no one seemed to notice this entire time, and now it made Khitti wonder if there was something else like that lurking beneath the surface with someone else, the unfortunate seed of doubt easily planted in her mind and made to bloom with her paranoia and cynicism.

Mesdoram (1/3) || As the stage returns to the blank canvas, Hawkeye looks at Mesdoram to gauge his drowen temperament; to Hawkeye’s dismay, Mesdoram still has not lowered his weapon and appears more distraught than ever… while those images may touch and change the mind of some audience members, this information is not novel for Mes… and does not absolve him of responsibility and does nothing to cleanse the blood and death caused by his hands… there is still plenty of blood for Mesdoram to answer for. Seemingly ready to go through with it… something from the northern exit of the stage seems to be sprinting… what trickery is this? Galloping steps echo throughout Khitti’s Goth Garden with everyone looking around for the source of the approaching sound… Hawkeye and other’s look at the magical ceramic box, but no mechanisms of the Quisto’s family heirloom is currently operating. As the intensity of powerful steps produce a rhythmic and powerful cadence, it seems everyone is now struggling to pinpoint where this mysterious beast will make an appearance… until a lucky few spot the majestic creature arriving from the eastern entrance into the Garden; for those fortunate enough to witness this spectacle, this rather large animal sprints rapidly from the Bakery, chargeing in stride onto a kiosk stands selling Khitti’s baked goods, and leaps with tremendous strength to traverse the 25-foot gap between the booth and stage, over the audience members below, and lands just in front of Mesdoram – through the beast’s momentum carries it more towards the center stage, using it’s claws as improvised brakes across the wooden stage – snarling ferociously, roaring threateningly, and baring enormous fangs towards the audience, neither Hawkeye nor Mesdoram seeming bothered by this development: Hawkeye still standing with his father’s gift in his hands, and Mesdoram ready to take his life… but Hawkeye finally recognizes his companion many, many years ago. “… Livi?!”

Valrae screamed as Nariv’s throat opened up and blood splashed across the stage. Her guards hauled her backwards, away from the rest of the crowd. She watched over her shoulder as they pushed her toward the exit, seeing only a small portion of the memories of manipulation and torment play out. It wouldn’t be long before more guards began flooding in, barking orders and pushing their way toward the stage. No matter how justified the kill, there wouldn’t be any amount of hysterical explaining that Valrae could do to stop them from attempting to arrest those on stage.

Mesdoram (2/3) || Indeed Livi has returned: this 220 pound elderly snow leopard stands roughly 4 foot tall when sitting upright, but is currently crouching her defensive stance ready to strike at any threat to her owner Hawkeye… she has been tracking Hawkeye ever since his disappearance… wandering for 15 years, never giving up hope that one day, her master would return… Livi had been roaming in Kelay sage forest for the past few months… picking up on a scent that seemed familiar but also foreign all the same… her instincts had brought her to some recently chopped down trees near the UnderDark entrance in the Sage forest and made home in between the logs fallen down during an impressive fight… she had all but lost hope and laid on her perch… waiting… but when Hawkeye was brought back into this mortal realm, Livi’s nose perked up immediately to the familiar scent of her master! Without wasting another second, Livi travelled the great distance, crossed the Milous plains, crossed Cenril’s western bridge, and has now found herself center stage ready to protect her master from everything. After taking a moment to catch her breath, the beautiful snow leopard turns her sights on Mesdoram assessing his threat potential; Livi growls and takes a few instantaneously lunges and swipes at the drow – though these are just test swings with her claws and she doesn’t make any contact. Mesdoram does not move… just stands stoic, broken, and with his blade pressed against his next – a superficial cut having slice some of his neck with a trail of blood seeping below the blade’s tongue. But then… Livi appears confused as she looks at Mesdoram, peers over her shoulder to look back at Hawkeye, then back again at Mes… the scent of her owner lingers on the distraught drow… Livi looks over one more time to her injured master before sitting and locking eyes with Mesdoram’s… she tilts her head sideways and studies the drow… and her animal intuition takes over as she remembers a similar situation. Walking on all fours, Livi walks steadily towards Mesdoram… and rubs his shins affectionately…

Mesdoram (3/3) || Purring and chuffing at Mesdoram, Livi unintentionally performs an encore of the 2nd act of the play: a desperate man standing on the ledge… ready to end it all… and is given another life from an unlikely savior. The affection shown by Livi works as Mesdoram does lower his blade… tossing it aside away safely towards the southern end of the stage away from everyone. A very relieved Hawkeye smiles seeing Livi again saving Mesdoram from taking the final plunge… just like she did for him those many years ago. Remembering the kind human from the Frostmaw tavern, Hawkeye offers those same sentiment words that gave him the strength to carry on… “Don’t waste your second chance, Mesdoram.” Mesdoram stares with understanding to his brother Hawkeye… looks over to Brennia… and then back down to Livi still purring and rubbing Mesdoram’s shins… when suddenly… Mes throws the dagger safely away from anyone, and finally finds the thing he’s been searching for… belong. Mesdoram looks over to Brennia once more, the woman he found a new meaning of life with… and proudly says to his angel. “We found Livi…” As an exhausted Mesdoram collapses from the play, he breathes easy but is unconscious with a loving Livi still rubbing all over the sleepy drow.

Khitti || The Cenrili guard busting into garden was bad news and it sent Khitti into swearing again. Pajamas and all, Khitti stood from her seat again and shadowstepped down onto ground level, her rage returning as barefeet stomped across the slate pathways that made up the majority of the ground in the garden.. “This is private property! Get the hell out of my garden!” Her shouts were for the guards themselves, and she soon found Valrae, the redhead clearly not pleased. “Get them the frak out of here now, Valrae! They are literally making things worse and I will not hesitate to deal with it myself if you don’t!”

Leoxander was just a little disappointed that he wasn’t going to get the opportunity to shoot something, and he started to relax his stance. But then an arrow whipped through the air too quick to see until it planted itself in the dead woman’s temple, taking Ina’s double-tap advice. If Khitti or anyone else for that matter gave him a questionable look, he just slightly shrugged a shoulder with a murmured, “Jus’ in case.”

Loravelle doesn't know what to do with herself except to hopefully keep herself well out of the way. She'd retreat inside if that's an option, but not before stooping down to pick up the fork she dropped and the plate of unfinished carrot cake she left behind. It wouldn't be right to leave a mess behind in Khitti's home. ...She couldn't even begin to imagine what the cleanup job might be in the garden below. As much as she'd like to try stopping Leo from firing an arrow at the stage or the crowd below, she continues to hang back, plate in a surprisingly steady hand despite her nerves going haywire. But then the arrow flies, and of course Lora jumps a little. To prevent what remained of the carrot cake on that plate from falling to the floor, she angles the plate toward herself and ends up with frosting smeared down the front of her dress. “...F-” Thank goodness the crowd is noisy, so her swear gets lost.

Mahri 's already slipping out, finding that back way Lita had suggested herself to head back to Rynvale. If she happened to grab a few bottles along the way, well...

Leoxander had a nice view to the second show of of the evening as Khitti went on a rampage after the city guards to ‘get off her lawn’, but after a moment he looked back toward Lora to see if she had managed to keep that carrot cake in her stomach.

Lita should know by now that she needs to ask Trix more questions before agreeing to these things. She follows her to the stage, unceremoniously putting herself between Ina and the crowd, blocking her investigating from view as she's simply trying to get a better view of the stage as she's cheering the happy reunion between characters and beast now. She's no idea what this means or its significance but sure, why not. The presence of local authorities, however, have her looping an arm around Ina's waist to drag her away from the stage and skirting the opposite direction they'd come. "Time's up." She's saying, nudging Trix.

Brennia doesn't hesitate to go to Mesdoram as soon as that barrier lifts. The ink on her skin swirls just long enough to give Brennia the strength to force the guards off her. A single beat of her wings lifts her enough to land feet first on the stage, adrenaline coursing through her entire body, "don't!" She holds out a hand to Mesdoram as his blade is across his throat. Hawkeye is at her feet and she helps him up because he is trying to keep Mesdoram alive just as much as she is, "listen to Hawkeye, please - Sapphire." Her pet name for Mesdoram is said with a soft smile that pokes dimples in her cheeks, "he is right." Brennia begins to slowly walk closer, Hawkeye in tow, while the ceramic device plays parts of how strongly Mesdoram resisted Nariv, "there is good in you. I have always seen it, Mesdoram," Bre speaks softly to him as she starts to reach a hand out in an attempt to help him lower his arm holding the blade to his neck, "you belong." Just then, Livi makes her grand entrance, causing Bre to step back from both Mes and Hawkeye. She recognizes this snow leopard through stories and the fact that Mesdoram and her spent three days looking for her! Brennia's jaw drops as tears well up in her eyes when she starts rubbing her side across Mesdoram's shins in the same manner she heard Livi do for Hawkeye. Happily astonished, she looks at Hawkeye and then back to her love. She nods in confirmation to Mesdoram's mention of finding Livi and rushes to his side as he collapses. Surely, Queen Reginae will send a guard to help carry Brennia's husband off the stage so they can quickly get to the safety of Alithrya. "Thank you," she leans down to Hawkeye and gives his cheek a friendly and appreciative kiss.

Leoxander said to Loravelle, "Don' worry. I'll clean that up later."

Khitti shouted, "Everyone get the hell out and go home before I make your new home the goddamned ocean!!"

Meri was already out the door before Khitti started shouting. One head start for Meri.

Mesdoram || Hawkeye watches Brennia save his brother man drow... very appriciative of everything that woman has done for him and Mesdoram. Looking at the others, Hawkeye rest onto the stage wondering if anyone will wisk him away as well. "Maybe one day..."

Loravelle 's face is red enough as it is for swearing in public (ignore that she swore occasionally around Leo's flock), but his look and his words only serve to have her face turn as scarlet as her dress. Her stomach has stopped doing somersaults after witnessing a murder, so thankfully he'll only have frosting to clean up instead of her being sick...

Magikrios quietly speaks to Hawkeye before disappearing. Something about providing him with some food and drink asap.

Mathollak is happy to be the 'guard' Queen Reginae sends to help get Mesdoram back to the safety of Alithyra, and vaults onto the bloody stage. He picks Mesdoram up and carries him over his shoulder before stopping and looking for direction from Brennia and the queen, and also some consideration for Magik's wishes since they seem to be acquainted. He nudges his chin toward Hawkey. "What about him?" Since they were both inhabiting the same body and were arguably the same person, maybe that meant they both belonged to the Queen.

Reginae calls off her guards from Brennia when the barrier breaks. Regi stays in place, still frowning. What actually just happened? The guards return to whisper information quietly in her ear that makes her stand. The guards do pull Mes back off the stage for Brennia to smother. The Queen lingers for a minute before being escorted back to Alithrya. Her guards would remain behind to manage her little collection of kidnapped trophies in her stead.

Magikrios does the thing. He whisks Hawkeye away in his black smoke. Right to Sage. POOF.

Arlyeon isn't finding a key, but what she -is finding seems good. Close to a century of sticky fingers leads to her locating a coin purse within moments- but the real treasure is the book in her bag, which is plucked out and stashed into the bag of holding within the foxkins sleeve without an ounce of hesitation. The thing smelled of magic, though the scent didn't simply end there. There was something else that- Ah. nearly hidden in the pooling blood was a ring on the womans finger. One which Ina moves forward to snag- only for her body to abruptly jerk back as Lita's arms snag about her waist. "Bwah-" The warning hits home then, and prompts ina into a rather impromptu shift- as she goes from struggling pickpocket to sleek fox, her sufficiently narrowed body arcing forward so she can bite down on Narivs ring finger and tear it off- the price pocketed in her, even as she's awkwardly pulled from the scene. Which leaves Lita plucking a weirdly self-satisfied fox from Ina's now deflating clothes. Sure, the guards might do a slight double take, given said fox is clinging onto a pouch- but, they have bigger problems to contend with then a woman pulling back a seemingly wild animal from chewing on a victim/piece of evidence. Which is to say, Off they go.

Leoxander heard the redhead’s voice carry over the crowd and shifted the weapon to hold across his torso in order to pick up his glass, finish it, and ‘borrow’ the bottle of whiskey to be replaced later. The other hand reached out for Lora’s. “Think that’s our cue before she starts settin’ people on fire.” Hopefully he could lead his fiance downstairs and out of the bakery without confronting Khitti in Kill-mode.

Nortengaal had been watching the ongoing scenes with rapt attention. He's been to a play or two in his time, but this was something else. As the guards start pouring in, and are in short order chased out by the furious Khitti -along with everyone else -, the bearman is whistling and clapping even as he follows the flow of people out into the streets, slipping through to make his way back to Rynvale, perhaps to join his compatriots should they be doing the same.

Lita is, thankfully, well versed in carting around wriggly little foxes these days. And with the Trix-fox clutched in her arms against her chest, she ducks her head and slips in amongst the crowd, making her way towards an exit and outside. She'll glance about for Mahri and, not seeing the she-wolf, she'll assume the woman made it out or made it to where Leo and Lora had been seated. All in all, not a bad night for theater, in her opinion.

Loravelle takes Leo's hand without a word to head out. On the way she sets the plate of cake down on a counter so it's hopefully somewhere out of the way. She can't believe her thoughts about being -happy- that the law showed up, but she is pretty happy about it. “Let's go home...”

Lita hangs the Trix-fix about her neck like some fancy fur piece. Nothing to see here...

Arlyeon is the most fashionable not-faux-fur scarf. Obviously. And she actually manages to avoid breaking character. For the most part. There is an old lady who falls into a dead faint when the scarf winks at her, and offers a very pointed grin. But, it's fine. It just means there's another body for the guards to get distracted by.

Alternate Endings

• Ending #2: Mesdoram goes through with the (PG13 word for self death) and is very much not going to make it unless someone saves him. Hawkeye desperately pleads for someone to save him from the audience for he is too weak and will not make it in time.
• Ending #3: Mesdoram kills Nariv, but Hawkeye's and everyone's influences wasn't strong enough to change his heart. Mes would go let Hawkeye live, and Mes would take over as Sin's only member and restart the Elf/Drow wars.
• Ending #4: Mesdoram does get convinced to change his ways and does live... but then Livi comes to late and stumbles into Nariv's pool of blood. The curse in Nariv's veins poisons Livi, kills her, and the rest of Livi's lifeforce brings Nariv back to life... And Nariv gonna do Nariv things with this Livi's extra life.
• Ending #5: Nariv elects not to pull Mesdoram out of Hawkeye, and lowers the magic barrier to invite challengers.
• Ending #6: Livi shows up and rips Nariv's arm off before the final execution blow to Hawkeye... but Nariv retaliates and kills Livi.