Distant Past
The Sovereigns, beings of immeasurable power that exist on the plane of reality known as Aria, create Daemonkind as a subordinate race meant to serve them. The first Daemon created is Polaris, an Empathy Daemon crafted by E'Laetum, the Sovereign of Empathy. Jealous of this act of creation, D'Deridahn, the Gravitic Sovereign, crafts Vega, the first Sadism Daemon. The other Sovereigns soon follow suit, creating scores of Daemons and binding them in their Madrigals. The Sovereigns are the only known source of the energy that sustains Daemons, leaving them at the former's mercy.
Daemons grow resentful of their mistreatment and begin to actively rebel. Rak'Xit, the Inchoate Sovereign, discovers the ability to rift to an alternate plane of existence, "Terra", where humanity resides. The Sovereigns begin traveling there en masse, finding humans to be more malleable subjects than Daemons. In an attempt to turn them into a suitable replacement for Daemonkind, they begin twisted experiments meant to imbue humanity with powers.
Each of the Sovereigns that chose to experiment on humanity creates a branch of empowered humans that specialize in the same style of magic as that Sovereign. The Sovereign of Fire, Tal'Ris, creates Fire Elementals through these efforts; The Sovereign of Dreams, N'Dellex, creates the Dreamwalkers; etc. A'Xerahn, the Sovereign of Desire, experiments the most forcefully, and his efforts backfire when he pushes the human form too far, inadvertently creating Vampires. Meanwhile, Daemonkind discovers that human emotions act as a source of energy for them comparable to that provided by the Sovereigns, offering an alternative form of sustenance.
Brachium is formed by Min'Ara, the Sovereign of Serenity. He is the last Daemon crafted by a Sovereigns' hands directly.
Humanity chooses to rebel against the Sovereigns' cruelty and ally themselves with the Daemons. Two Sovereigns join their efforts, E'Laetum of Empathy and Min'Ara of Serenity. A horrific conflict erupts, with Terra as the main front of the battle. The Sovereigns appear to be winning given their greater power, but a last minute sacrifice by Rak'Xit of all his lifeforce empowers large numbers of as-yet unempowered humans with his unfocused specialty of magic, creating the Freelancers (and explaining why they're vastly more common than specialized empowereds).
The drastic increase in empowered human forces tips the scales, and the alliance successfully beats the Sovereigns. All Sovereigns except E'Laetum and Min'Ara are bound in the empty realm of "Death" to prevent further conflict, believing that they will eventually 'starve'. A contingent of Serenity Daemons chooses to sacrifice themselves to the cause of watching over the Sovereigns until their eventual end, with plans to feed on the gods to sustain themselves until eventually they all cease to exist. These Daemons take on the new moniker "Deathwalkers". Brachium is among them.
The scale of the conflict and the drastic uptick in empowered humans drawing on magic puts incredible strain on the thin barrier between Terra and Aria, with collapse imminent. This would completely eliminate all of Terra. In order to prevent this, E'Laetum and Min'Ara choose to make the sacrifice to reform themselves as a new barrier between those worlds, which comes to be known as the Meridian.
Each of the remaining two Sovereigns commit themselves to completing a parting act before they reform themselves into the Meridian. Min'Ara uses her powers to establish the Elision Well, an Arcana forge that will periodically calcify the raw magical material of Aria into a new Daemon consciousness, allowing new Daemons to be formed long after all the Sovereigns are gone. E'Laetum attempts to correct the mistakes of A'Xerahn and heal the Vampires, but his efforts do not translate as expected: the act imbues each Vampire he attempted to help with a fragment of his Sovereignty, granting them incredible power and reforming them as Seers. He quickly abandons future efforts, leaving the rest of the Vampires untouched and Seers as an unimaginably rare type of Specialist.
Daemons discover that, while human emotion is a suitable sustenance source for them, they each are only able to be sustained by particular kinds of emotion. Previously, they were grouped based on the Sovereign that they served, but this revelation causes them to restructure themselves instead into categories based on their feeding capabilities. Daemons that found that they could feed on feelings of Empathy or Serenity choose to keep the name “Daemon” with an “a” as an honorific to the Empathy and Serenity sovereigns that had sacrificed themselves to create the Meridian. All other branches drop the “a”, going by “Demon” instead, as a way of distancing themselves from their prior lives of subjugation.
D[a]emonkind and humanity's alliance and relations wither over time in the absence of a shared enemy. As time wears on, empowered humans choose to keep their power secret from the unempowered masses that far outnumber them. Unempowered humans come to consider magical powers to be fictional. Empowered humans slowly lose their knowledge of their history, with it fading into folklore and then largely disappearing over the centuries. While D[a]emonkind maintains a better grasp on their history, it also becomes considered myth. Even those who were there for the conflict, like Vega, struggle to remember all the details of a time so far removed.
The Sovereigns imprisoned in Death, now known as the Drove, begin to reach past the bounds of their prison in order to corrupt the realm. Their malice takes shape as the River, which carries the dead down to the veil. As it does, it strips them of their memories, knowledge, and magic, and funnels all of that into the Drove, empowering them despite their imprisonment. The River strips the Deathwalkers of their memories as well, making them forget their original purpose to instead focus on ferrying and soothing the dead. The Drove grows stronger, unchecked.
1519
William Solaire is Turned into a Vampire in France as part of an attack from a roaming Clan. His Maker is a cruel man who turns him in a bid to bolster his Clan's numbers. He subjects William to repeated bouts of Invocation, forcing him to commit horrible acts in his Maker's name. Later that next year, William manages to kill his Maker and strikes out on his own, vowing to never become a Maker himself.
1700’s - 1800’s
Magical affairs in North America have been primarily managed by an initially self-appointed group calling themselves the Ruling Council, seeking to provide large-scale resources and controls to the empowered population of the area. In an effort to legitimatize themselves and become a more thorough infrastructure, the Ruling Council becomes an elected body, and establishes a handful of departments below it to manage empowered needs. One of these departments, the one primarily focused on the creation of standardized magical edicts, practices, codes of conduct, and enforcement of covert, is named the Department of Uniform Magical Practices.
1874
Dahlia, California is appointed as the eighth Cornerstone City, representing the "Pacific Division" of the United States.
1912
Aggressive reform efforts against the Ruling Council's unchecked oversight of empowered affairs results in severe restructuring of the magical government. The majority of the departments are culled and the Ruling Council is changed to be a cameral adjunct rather than the executive body of empowered affairs. That position is instead granted to the Department of Uniform Magical Practices, which is drastically expanded to become the umbrella infrastructure to which the Council and other bodies answer, effectively superseding its progenitor. Despite its wildly expanded breadth, its original name is kept in place. Explanations for this odd decision vary wildly to this day.
McKinley is appointed as the ninth Cornerstone City, representing the "Mountain Division" of the United States. It's declared to be the final one, and the existing divisions have their borders adjusted as a result.
1924
Dahlia Academy for Magical Novices opens its doors in Dahlia, California.
1949
Vesta Distribution Co begins operations in Dahlia.
1951
D[a]emons are finally given seats on the Ruling Council amid ongoing protests. This gesture from the Department is considered to be largely performative, given the Council's limited executive power, and instead is used as justification for increased oversight from the Department over D[a]emonic affairs now that they have been granted political representation.
1968
Max's Rustic Pizza in Dahlia opens its doors for the first time.
1969
Alexis Getty is turned into a Vampire by William Solaire, becoming his first Progeny. She had suffered mortal injuries at the hands of a rogue Vampire that William had been attempting to hunt down after repeated transgressions by them into his territory. The rogue Vampire attacked Alexis in a bid to restore his energies, drained as he was from the hunt. William ended him but was too late to save Alexis by conventional means. He offered to turn her, and she accepted. She became a very difficult Progeny to steward, and William again vowed to never again become a Maker, particularly to someone he knew so little about before turning. He forms Solaire Property Management and continues his real estate investments.
1971
Porter, a Freelancer, is born.
1979
Samuel Collins, a Freelancer, is born in Mont Blanc.
1980
Vincent, an unempowered human, is born in New Mexico.
1983
The first ever Elemental and Energetics Games is hosted at D.A.M.N., organized by the Dahlia Elemental and Energetic Society.
1985
The Wonderworld amusement park opens to considerable fanfare in Dahlia. It becomes a frequent feeding ground for the House of Solaire, who have set up roots in the region.
1987
Gabriel Shaw forms his Pack in Dahlia and gives it his name. His friend Gregory Keaton forms a Pack of his own in the same region, and they remain close. The Talbots are among the founding members of the Shaw Pack, and Frank Talbot, longtime friend of the Shaws, is appointed to be Gabe's Beta.
An Inchoate Demon named Avior coalesces in the Elision Well in Aria. An Inchoate Demon named Circinus becomes his Steward.
1990
An Incubus named Vindemiator coalesces in the Elision Well in Aria. Ophiuchus becomes his Steward. This pairing goes very poorly almost immediately.
Aaron, an unempowered human, is born.
1993
David Shaw and Asher Talbot, both Wolf Shifters, are born in Dahlia. Milo Greer, another Wolf Shifter, is born on the East Coast to Marie and Colm Greer, the latter of whom is a Department Investigator.
1994
Lasko Moore, an Air Elemental, is born to unempowered parents who don't know about magic.
Elliott is adopted by Aaron's family. None of them are aware that Elliott is actually a Dreamwalker that somehow ended up in the unempowered world's adoption system.
1995
Gabe Shaw's mate, David's mother, dies. Gabe never takes another mate.
Sam goes on a trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain with friends from high school, visiting California for the first time.
Sam runs away from Mont Blanc to escape his abusive family upbringing. He makes his way across the country, heading for Dahlia.
1997
Huxley is born in a small town outside of Kennedy.
William purchases the SkySide estate outside of Dahlia, and begins a renovation overhaul of it.
1999
Caelum, an Empathy Daemon, coalesces in the Elision Well in Aria. An Empathy Daemon named Delphinus becomes his Steward.
Elliott drowns in a boating accident, though he is resuscitated. While in the river of Death, he is watched over by Brachium, a Deathwalker who has long since forgotten his origins as a Serenity Daemon thanks to the machinations of the river. Elliott maintains no memories of his interactions with Brachium.
Damien, a Fire Elemental, is born in Dahlia to Sofia and her then-husband.
Sam starts coursework part time at the Dahlia Academy for Magical Novices, pursuing certification in Healing.
The Greer family moves to Dahlia with their young son Milo, as a result of a mandatory transfer for Colm. They aren't interested in maintaining ties to their old Pack due to prior disputes, and they instead join the Shaw Pack.
2000
January 1st: The "Surge" rollercoaster debuts at Wonderworld amusement park.
February 13th: A catastrophic accident with the "Surge" rollercoaster kills roughly 30 people, with one person reported missing. Vincent sustains mortal injuries in the accident and is subsequently turned into a Vampire by William Solaire without consultation. He becomes the second Solaire progeny. The speed of the unempowered emergency response to the disaster does not allow the Department enough time to falsify his death, so he is officially labeled as "missing" by the unempowered authorities.
March: Vincent resents being turned, and as the reality of his future sets in, he refuses to feed on blood. The initial amount of William's blood provided during the Turning has sustained him thus far, but that effect soon wears off. His health continues to decline. When all other efforts to convince him otherwise fail, William finally Invokes Vincent, forcing him to feed. Though effective as a life-saving measure, it sends Vincent and William's relationship even harder into a nosedive. It takes years for the situation to improve.
2001
The management company that owned Wonderworld fully collapses amid the legal disputes and lawsuits that it cannot afford. With the Department's blessing, William buys out the land that Wonderworld is built on to discourage further investigation into the "missing person" case for the sake of covert.
Asher falls out of an orange tree he and David were climbing in the Shaw's backyard, and he breaks his arm.
2003
Sam graduates from D.A.M.N. with his certification in Healing and begins work in the field.
2004
Vincent and William's relationship remains fraught, but the former agrees to go to the Monarchal Summit when asked. His efforts to frustrate William at the party fail, and William instead reasserts that he's proud of Vincent for all of his progress, and presents him with his crown as Prince of the Solaires. Relations slowly begin to improve.
Porter is Turned against his will by a Vampire named Felix. He is one of many Progeny, all treated as an enclave at his Maker's beck and call through constant invocation and harsh punishment.
2006
Sofia, Damien's mother, becomes one of the first humanborns to attain full certification at the Dahlia Academy for Magical Novices.
Elliott's powers begin to manifest, though it is not immediately obvious what they are, since he has no context for what magic would be like.
2007
Lasko's powers begin to manifest as a result of entering puberty. His parents respond very poorly, and instead of seeking answers proceed to isolate him from the outside world.
"Darlin" and their parents move to Dahlia from Washington. They become members of the Shaw Pack.
Members of the Shaw Pack go on a trip up to their regular camping spot. Gabe falls out of the back of the Greers' pickup truck, causing David and Asher to shift and run to him, but he is unharmed and it becomes a treasured story.
2008
Sam meets Alexis and they start an erratic relationship that Sam quickly tries to end. Alexis is resistant to the idea but agrees. That evening, they are part of a terrible car accident that leaves Sam mortally wounded. Despite his insistence that he can heal himself, and that even if he cannot, he does not wish to be a Vampire, Alexis forces the Turning onto him. She never apologizes for the act.
William is furious with Alexis when he finds out the circumstances of the Turning, and he Invokes her so that she is unable to Invoke Sam in the future. Vincent is equally upset with her and her continued behavior afterward, and their relationship deteriorates rapidly as a result.
Sam becomes a Duke within the House of Solaire, but avoids Alexis. With her ability to Invoke him taken from her, she generally ignores him as well. Vincent and William step in to help guide Sam through his new experience as a Vampire. He and Vincent become close friends.
2010
Vindemiator now goes by the chosen name Gavin, and has distanced himself from Aria whenever possible. He attempts to go to D.A.M.N. for full certification, planning to work for the Department upon graduation, but faces prejudice and disregard. He changes plans, leaning into studies provided by the Demonic school instead, but is made very uncomfortable by the attitudes there in regards to being an Incubus. He leaves the program.
Elliott finally realizes the extent of his powers, and he finds a fellow magic user by the energy signature from their core. While he is unsure what the feeling itself is, he correctly identifies it as being related to his mysterious powers. They are able to direct him to the Department, who are shocked to discover his circumstances, given his adoption. He is granted permission to tell his family the situation provided they are sworn to secrecy as Informed Unempowereds, and he does so. This revelation about his nature causes a divide to grow between him and his unempowered older brother, Aaron.
2011
Lasko's powers reach a breaking point, and he finally runs away from home. He finds someone who exudes a magical aura, and though he isn’t sure what it is, he recognizes it as being linked to his mysterious powers and asks them for help. The stranger is a Psychokinetic named Jessica, who realizes he is a humanborn empowered and takes him to the Department for debriefing. The Department arranges temporary housing and Lasko starts a rudimentary magical education, though it is slow-going due to his hesitance to use his powers.
Asher's sister, Madelyn, marries and moves to Michigan to her new husband's hometown.
2012
Porter's Maker, Felix, is finally apprehended and executed after attacking the family member of a Department official. Freed from his control, Porter runs away and eventually finds his way to Solaire territory, where he is taken in by William. His magical powers are nurtured and he relearns much of his lost abilities. He takes on the Solaire name in honor of what William has meant to him, with William's blessing. His relationship with Vincent is fraught from the start, based on misunderstandings and envy on both of their parts.
Blake, a Seer, confides in his childhood best friend about the reality of his powers, having pretended to be a Dreamwalker up to that point for his own safety, and tells them that he has Seen their death. He also confesses his feelings for them. They reject his offer for a relationship, unable to accept being with a Seer in that way. They reach a compromise of sorts, where Blake agrees not to talk about his Sight so that they can live their life unhindered, and he remains in their life, but on the fringes. Secretly his interest in them only deepens, however.
2015
Frank Talbot, Asher's father, steps down from his role as Pack Beta, a position he held for 28 years. He and his wife leave Dahlia to fulfill their dream of traveling the world. Asher stays in Dahlia with the rest of the Shaw Pack. David is appointed the new Pack Beta under Gabe.
Colm Greer, Milo's father, finally seeks help for his gambling addiction. He begins to make meaningful progress, but his relationship with Milo remains strained.
Adam Jessup, an unempowered human, is willingly turned into a Vampire. Relations with his Maker deteriorate quickly however, as soon as he realizes the level of control she is capable of exerting over him.
Aaron starts work at Vesta Distribution Co.
2016
"Sunshine" is involved in a fatal car accident, though they are eventually resuscitated. While in the river of Death, they encounter Brachium and unknowingly form a connection with him after he interferes to buy them time.
The Keaton Pack makes the unanimous decision to move north to Ferris, feeling that Dahlia has grown too crowded for them to comfortably operate.
Lasko finally gains the confidence to begin his magical education in earnest, and enrolls at D.A.M.N. to pursue a full certification.
December: "Sweetheart", an accomplished Stealth and Department Investigator, begins an investigation into a Shade loose in Dahlia. It was last suspected of being present at that year's Elemental and Energetic Games. The Shaw Pack worked as supplementary security there, and "Sweetheart" seeks out Milo to see if he has any information. They specifically choose to approach him rather than another Pack member or the Pack Alpha because Milo's father was a Department Investigator. This backfires though, because Milo has a very strained relationship with his father and feels no obligation to the Department. Ultimately Milo provides what little information he has, and asks to be kept posted.
2017
"Sweetheart" and Milo agree to hunt the Shade together. They're ultimately successful, though Milo sustains injury while defending "Sweetheart".
“Sweetheart” heals Milo so that he can avoid suspicion from his Pack, who he has chosen not to inform about the situation. A relationship blooms between the two of them.
Huxley moves away from his hometown on his own, wanting to enroll at D.A.M.N. His moms stay in their hometown and he moves to Dahlia and begins his coursework.
"Sweetheart" returns to Milo's place after having snuck out in the night after their healing session. They apologize for having ghosted him since then, and ask him out on a date, which he happily accepts.
September 3rd: Gabriel Shaw is struck by a drunk driver in the evening on his drive home and dies in the accident.
David is appointed to be Pack Alpha and accepts the role, although he feels deeply unprepared for it. He feels isolated from the rest of the Pack in his grief, and struggles to balance that grieving with the responsibilities thrust upon him. Distance quickly grows between him and his friends as he struggles to find a middle-ground between being Alpha and being himself.
David appoints Asher to be his Beta. The decision is heavily questioned by the rest of the Pack, causing division and only increasing David's self-doubts. Asher faces severe skepticism and criticism from the Pack members, which shakes his confidence in his ability to do the job and puts him under heavy strain. He feels isolated not unlike David does, with the majority of his support system gone; his parents and sister no longer live in Dahlia, and his friendship with David, once a source of support and comfort, is becoming increasingly complicated and distant.
"Darlin'"s parents move back to Washington, but they choose to remain in Dahlia with the rest of the Pack.
Ivan is an unempowered human, born and living in Montana, who has been in a serious relationship with "Baby" for years. Lack of honest communication about each of their internal struggles leads to them breaking up. He moves to Dahlia, having been offered a position with Vesta Distribution Co, and he leaves them a voicemail attempting to explain his actions.
Unbeknownst to Ivan, a Sadism Demon named Vega has become interested in him and sees an opportunity to experiment with the creation of a sustained source of the sadistic energy which he feeds on, considering it a ‘personal project’. As part of the groundwork for this project, Vega erases the voicemail and record of the call from “Baby”s phone before they are aware of its existence in a bid to further isolate Ivan.
"Freelancer" has been hiding their powers from the world ever since they started to manifest. The feelings of isolation and frustration start to reach an untenable level. Caelum is assigned "Freelancer" as a charge and meets them for the first time.
2018
A position opens in Ivan's department at Vesta. Seeing a chance to finally execute his plan, Vega begins the process of slowly manipulating Ivan's emotions and mindset to turn the human's innocent passing interest in one of the applicants into a dangerous obsession. Ultimately, Ollie is hired for the position at Vesta instead of the applicant Ivan desired.
Huxley joins the sports team at D.A.M.N. and meets Xavier. He also meets and befriends Lasko, although they drift apart later that year.
Ollie struggles with the new job, but improves with training from a friendly coworker.
David continues to expand his father's business of for-hire security work, employing most of the members of the Pack and establishing its reputation in the region.
While delivering paperwork for a security job, Asher becomes stuck in an elevator with "Baaabe", an unempowered human. He gives them his number, and they begin dating.
"Angel" breaks up with their then-boyfriend Michael, leaving the cat they adopted together with him.
Milo finds "Sweetheart" in the midst of a panic attack, which has driven them to cloak uncontrollably. He successfully comforts them and helps them recover.
Porter and Vincent's conflict comes to a head, and the two come to blows. Porter is seemingly sent away by William for his part in it. This is largely a cover story so that Porter can continue to act as William's operative with less suspicion.
2019
Asher confesses his love for "Baaabe" while playing video games.
Adam kills his Maker when the opportunity finally presents itself, draining her. As a result, he enters a feral state that is mistaken for being a newborn at the peak of bloodlust. He is found and taken in by members of the Solaire clan, and when he calms down to a cognizant state, he chooses not to correct their belief about his Vampiric age.
Early in the year, David meets "Angel", not knowing that it is due to Caelum's interference. They begin dating.
David confesses his love for "Angel" while playing video games.
Damien begins his coursework at D.A.M.N., seeking full certification.
"Smartass" starts work at Vesta Distribution Co, reporting to Aaron.
Late in the year, David, now living with "Angel", continues to refuse to shift in front of them due to his fear of their potential response.
2020
Feb 2020
David and "Angel" have their first Valentine's Day together.
Mar 2020
On the eve of their first anniversary, David finally shifts in front of "Angel". Though there is some initial shock, they ultimately handle it well.
May 2020
Elliott admits to tampering with his friend "Sunshine"'s dreams in a bid to bring an end to their recurring nightmares that have resulted from their traumatic car accident. In doing so, he alludes to his deeper feelings for them.
The next day, Elliott fully admits those feelings in detail, and a relationship starts.
Damien and Kody are paired together in an Introductory Elemental Command class. Kody does not take the project seriously, flaking out on practice sessions and then not showing up for the final. Damien attempts to do the final practical presentation on his own but is unable to handle it on his own and fails the final and the class.
Jun 2020
A series of misunderstandings leads David to briefly fear that “Angel” might be cheating on him. After an argument about it, the situation is resolved and their trust and feelings for one another are reaffirmed.
Ivan is unknowingly completely under Vega's thrall at this point. He switches to exclusively working from home.
Geordi, an unempowered human, meets "Cutie", a Telepath, while on a run. He is unaware that they have powers and that they are listening in on his thoughts. They begin dating.
"Darlin", having grown increasingly distant from the Shaw Pack in recent years, begins a brief dalliance with a Vampire named Quinn. They quickly realize that he is a criminal with violent disregard for humans and report him to the Department. In retaliation, Quinn attacks an unempowered friend of "Darlin"'s. While "Darlin" is able to arrive in time and fight him off, he escapes. When the David and the Shaw Pack hear what happened, they attempt to rally behind "Darlin", but "Darlin" wants personal revenge on Quinn and believes that can be best achieved by distancing themself from the Pack to keep the others safe. They lie to David, saying that Quinn was apprehended by the Department, and they move back to Washington under the guise of recovery while actually planning their hunt.
Jul 2020
Ollie confesses his feelings to his coworker. A relationship starts.
Ivan leaves another voicemail for his prior partner, "Baby", now taunting them sinisterly, but this voicemail is also blocked from reaching its target by Vega to prevent suspicion.
Ivan follows the applicant he has grown obsessed with to a club, and when (unbeknownst to him) Vega causes a fight to erupt, Ivan seizes the opportunity and kidnaps them.
Ivan later confesses the depths of his feelings to the applicant.
The applicant eventually tries to escape, but they are caught by Ivan in the attempt.
Aug 2020
Guy, an unempowered human, moves in with a new friend (“Honey”) and another fellow student. It quickly becomes clear that the third person on the lease is not a good fit.
On a rare night when Vincent is patrolling the grounds of Wonderworld, he encounters "Lovely" when the latter explores Wonderworld alone at night, prompted by stories of supernatural occurrences there. Adam and other clan members are on site for a meeting, and see the interaction. Adam takes particular interest.
Vincent meets “Lovely” at their apartment the next night. He is overcome with bloodlust, and unable to pinpoint why, leaves abruptly to prevent an incident.
“Lovely” attempts to find Vincent despite warnings not to. They arrive at Wonderworld, are tranced by Adam, then Vincent appears, chasing Adam off and feeding on “Lovely”'s wrist after succumbing to his urges, with their permission.
Upon regaining consciousness, “Lovely” is comforted by Vincent, who explains his Vampiric nature in detail.
Fascinated by his brief taste of “Lovely”'s blood, Adam kidnaps them. He hides away in Wonderworld, beneath the wreckage of “Surge”, in a spot that he masks from detection through magic. He proceeds to feed on and torment “Lovely”.
After roughly a day with Adam, “Lovely”'s Latent Electro-Energetic powers manifest in light of their trauma, and they use said powers to incapacitate Adam briefly. The break in concentration causes the wards hiding the spot to fail, and Vincent finds them. Adam is killed unceremoniously. Given that he’s a vampire, his body disintegrates into ash, leaving only bones behind.
Vincent takes “Lovely” to his home and gets Sam to heal them as best he can. Vincent then explains magic as a whole and “Lovely”s Latency in particular in as much detail as he can.
A month into captivity with Ivan, the applicant is plagued with nightmares regarding their situation and their conflicted emotions about it.
The applicant admits the details of the nightmares to Ivan, who alludes to his prior relationship and its failure.
“Freelancer” finally chooses to join the magical world at large, and seeks out the academy based on remarks from Caelum about its existence and relative location. Unsure on details, they sense Gavin’s magic nearby and attempt (successfully) to get the location from him.
"Freelancer" is assigned Lasko as a guidance counselor, and he helps them get their schedule sorted.
Nervous Air Elemental Guidance Counselor Schedules Your Classes
Lasko visits the 7/11 that Gavin frequents, and they meet. He returns again later that same day to "meet" with him a second time.
"Freelancer" begins classes, and shares Introductory Elemental Command with Damien, who is retaking it after failing it the semester prior. They are assigned to work together, and practice extensively for the class together.
"Freelancer"'s acquaintance with Gavin takes an intimate turn under the guise of studying.
While on campus, "Freelancer" encounters Kody. He is very forward, and eventually bridges with them without explaining the details, implications, or intimacy of the act to them before doing so. "Freelancer" leaves the interaction deeply shaken.
Later that same day, “Freelancer” runs into Huxley in the quad. He immediately recognizes that something is bothering them, and when they explain the situation that occurred, he is rightfully horrified for them. He explains the gravity of what happened, and in doing so validates their deep discomfort with what was done to them.
Asher, now in an established, live-in relationship with "Baaabe", invites them to a future pack meeting.
David comforts "Angel" during a storm, the first that they have experienced in the home they have recently moved into. He discusses the difficulties of intimate relationships in regards to being an Alpha.
Sep 2020
Asher comforts "Baaabe"'s insecurities about going to the pack meeting.
David admits the significance of the date (September 3rd) to “Angel”, confirming that it’s the 3rd anniversary of his father’s death. He expands on the feelings of inadequacy that continue to haunt him.
Caelum helps “Freelancer” with the school projects that they are struggling with.
“Lovely” moves in with Vincent amidst fears for their safety. They choose to take their relationship slowly, getting to know one another better first. “Lovely” continues therapy in the wake of the incident, and seeks guidance in regards to their burgeoning powers. Vincent and “Lovely” both make plans to begin coursework at D.A.M.N.
Ivan continues his manipulative tactics against the applicant, giving them specific new freedoms that don’t actually afford them any meaningful autonomy.
David teaches “Angel” how to cook a meal. He promises to learn how to play their favorite video game at a later date in return. Asher gives David a jacket in the same style that Gabe used to wear, but in a size suitable for him. It becomes a new favorite of his, though he is hesitant to admit it.
Oct 2020
Caelum returns to “Freelancer” after being brutally attacked by a Sadism Demon, Vega. Vega is actively feeding on Ivan and his applicant victim to excess, and despite this being technically acceptable by demon customs, Caelum attempted to stop him nonetheless and was soundly defeated.
Asher takes care of “Baaabe” when the latter is sick. He laments his lack of magical knowledge that would help them, discussing the general disinterest in Shifter culture for learning other branches of magic.
Sweet Werewolf Boyfriend Takes Care of You While You're Sick
Ollie has a breakfast date with his coworker partner, which has become a regular occurrence. He confirms that Ivan, their other coworker, has been more amiable since switching to working from home.
Elliott’s relationship with “Sunshine” continues to grow deeper. He saves them from a nightmare and shares a spot of special significance with them in the dreamscape.
“Freelancer” continues with their schooling. Their relationship with Gavin becomes more serious, forcing him to reconcile his preconceptions about how others can feel about him. In the wake of Caelum’s attack, “Freelancer” insists that Lasko adds Healing courses to their new schedule. He expresses concerns about their workload, but concedes. Damien affirms their abilities.
A Day With An Arrogant Incubus, Nervous Air Elemental, and Tsundere Fire Elemental
Milo confesses to “Sweetheart” that other pack members are mocking him for the size of his wolf form when shifted. He agrees to discuss it with David, at their suggestion.
Vega finds “Freelancer” and threatens both them and Caelum if Caelum attempts to interfere with his plans again.
Asher and David spend Halloween night together with “Baaabe” at David’s home. “Angel” is away on business. Asher admits to avoiding the mandatory classes for having breached covert with “Baaabe”.
Halloween With Your Sweet Werewolf Boyfriend and His Tsundere Alpha
An unempowered human, Frederick, is convinced by his unempowered friend to sneak onto the grounds of Wonderworld on Halloween night to conduct urban exploration. Unbeknownst to them, Quinn, a rogue vampire, has returned to Dahlia and has snuck onto the grounds that night as well. He catches them and mortally wounds both of them. Sam, who had been on guard duty that evening, reaches the scene in time to run him off and finds Frederick. Too late to heal him by conventional means, he offers to turn Frederick to save his life, not realizing there is another wounded human there as well.
Frederick accepts and is turned, becoming Sam's first Progeny. Frederick shows Sam his friend and asks that he turn them as well. Sam tells him that isn't possible, because the exertion would kill him. Frederick turns his friend as a result before Sam can stop him, nearly dying in the process, and becomes a Maker of his own mere minutes after being turned. The House of Solaire gains two new members.
Nov 2020
Vincent and "Lovely" have a night-in dinner date and continue to grow closer. Vincent is told by William about the attack that occurred on Halloween night, and Sam's newfound status as a Maker.
"Angel" returns from their work trip.
Sleepy Morning Cuddles With Your Tsundere Werewolf Boyfriend
Sam trains both Frederick and Frederick's progeny, becoming a mentor to both of them and teaching them what it is to be a Vampire and a member of the House of Solaire.
David gets word of the two new members of the House of Solaire as part of his efforts to keep an eye on all the major groups acting in Dahlia. His curiosity is piqued; it is unprecedented for the House of Solaire to have gained two new members in such quick succession. He asks his contacts within the Department to seek more details into the nature of these additions to William's House.
Huxley observes how affected by Kody's actions "Freelancer" is and urges them to report the bridging incident.
"Freelancer" reports the bridging incident to Lasko, who earnestly pursues it, but the Academy takes limited action.
Kody confronts "Freelancer" about the damage done to his reputation and asserts that he’s the victim.
“Freelancer” tells Damien what happened, and he offers them his support, expounding upon the inequality at the academy that allows situations like this to occur and then go unpunished.
Asher is forced to attend the mandatory classes for having told “Baaabe” about magic without prior permission from the Department of Uniform Magical Practices.
My Magic and Me: Empowering the Unempowered Through Knowledge
Camelopardalis continues to offer serenity to his charge. He wipes their memory of the event, as he has done countless times before.
Emboldened by his growing closeness to the applicant, Ivan begins to drop some of his façade.
Gavin opens up more to “Freelancer”, admitting to his reasoning behind certain actions.
Regulus, an Empathy Daemon that has succumbed to an obsessive, possessive nature that endangers himself, his charges, and those around them, traps his 'favorite' charge in their home.
Dec 2020
Milo comforts “Sweetheart” after a bad day. He discusses having told David his problems with the bullying, which David takes very seriously. He also mentions working a Seer conference, where he and the pack were hired to guard an important guest, Morgan Kyne.
The applicant attempts to hide from Ivan, but the effort is unsuccessful.
"Freelancer" continues to grow closer to their new friends. Lasko tells them about his passion for D&D.
Huxley discusses his reasoning for moving out to Dahlia.
Damien doubles down on his frustration with the inequality at D.A.M.N., and mentions his mother becoming one of the first fully certified humanborns.
Kody continues to attempt to gaslight “Freelancer”, now with promises of power and a desire for change.
Gavin explains Aria as the magical plane and home of the d(a)emons, and his own struggles against the expectations of his kind. He also reveals his given name was Vindemiator, but that he chose a new one.
David discusses the significance of the Moonbound Solstice with “Angel”, and its importance to him and the pack in particular.
David and "Angel" host the pack’s party for the occasion, where tensions between Milo, Asher, and Christian come to a head, egged on by Arden and Kelsey. Ultimately all members reaffirm their commitment to the pack and its continued success.
Partying With the Werewolf Pack (Ft. Auth Audio, Eris The Writer, and Krøw!)
In the wake of his behavior at the Moonbound party, Asher admits to “Baaabe” his feelings of inadequacy in his role as Beta, the increasingly complicated nature of his relationship with David, and his concerns about how fit he is for the role.
Caelum meets up with “Freelancer”, explaining a plan to wrest control of the two unempowered humans from Vega in a way that won’t break demonic customs.
The 38th annual Elemental and Energetic Games is hosted by the Magical Studies Academy of McKinley.
2021
Jan 2021
Vincent helps “Lovely” relax and reminds them to not lose themselves in the new exploration of their powers and the magical world at large.
Ollie shares his love of the board game Scythe with his coworker partner.
Vincent and “Lovely”s relationship reaches a point of trust where "Lovely" asks Vincent to bite their neck. Their relationship grows stronger as a result.
Months with Ivan and his rhetoric leave the applicant haunted with conflicted thoughts and feelings, even in dreams.
David finally makes good on his promise to try playing “Angel”s favorite game.
Damien finally opens up to "Freelancer" about his reasoning for becoming fully-certified, wanting to defy the bigoted stereotypes that others try to use to define him. He further reveals his plan to create an academic club designed to help humanborn magic users acclimate, feeling that D.A.M.N.'s measly efforts in that regard are wildly insufficient.
Huxley confesses to the "Freelancer" his feelings of loneliness and being constantly misunderstood and used by others.
Lasko relays to "Freelancer" the fraught story of how his powers manifested and what his life was like before finding the magical world, connecting with them over the often-painful reality of being a humanborn.
Kody leaves D.A.M.N. and Dahlia, still blaming "Freelancer" for his own problems.
“Freelancer” finally breaks down under the pressure and reveals to Gavin the bridging incident, Caelum, his plan, and Vega’s threats. The incubus comforts them.
Xavier becomes the captain of Huxley's sports team and begins to attempt to bolster the team's comradery.
Feb 2021
Asher comforts “Baaabe” when their efforts to get a new job within their company falls through.
Vincent finally explains all the details of his Turning to “Lovely”, relaying what happened 21 years prior at Wonderworld.
Gavin and "Freelancer" explore what Valentine's Day means for them
Asking An Incubus To Be Your Valentine | Valentine's Day with an Arrogant Incubus
Ivan continues his conditioning of the applicant, and announces his plans to move them into his bedroom from now on.
While listening in on Geordi's thoughts, "Cutie" hears him experience the thought that he loves them. They decide to explain that magic exists, and that they are a Telepath. Geordi is initially skeptical, but becomes convinced after they demonstrate their abilities.
Elliott allows "Sunshine" to enter the dream he is working on for a contract as a Defensive Dream Designer. He explains the process of defensive dream design to them while he works.
Mar 2021
Ollie has a lazy morning with his partner.
David and “Angel” spend the morning landscaping their yard. He tells the story of Asher breaking his arm, and of his mom's love of honeysuckle plants and the hummingbirds that they draw in.
The conflict with Vega comes to a head. Caelum seeks shelter with “Freelancer” and Gavin, but Vega appears. He and Gavin fight, with Vega ultimately losing. Gavin sends him to the Department to face punishment. Gavin and Caelum go to the home where Caelum first found Vega and discover Ivan and the applicant. Gavin incapacitates Ivan and calls the Department to the scene so that both the applicant and Ivan’s memories can be modified to a time before they were affected by Vega. Gavin receives a proverbial slap of the wrist but returns to “Freelancer” without incident.
Camelopardalis leads the memory modification effort for the applicant, while his associate Crux does the same for Ivan. Each have their memories reset to a time before Vega had influenced them and they return to their prior lives.
Thanks to Crux, all of Ivan's memories of his actions taken against the applicant and the feelings that Vega had implanted and fostered are gone. Memories are implanted that encourage Ivan to fly back home to Montana for a visit, with his memory modifiers believing that having him reconnect with family might help him.
Of his own volition, during his return home to Montana, Ivan reaches out again to “Baby”, his ex-partner from years prior, seeing an opportunity to catch up and make amends.
Ivan's effort to reconnect is successful, being able to properly explain and apologize for his part in their breakup, honestly assess where his shortcomings in that situation had been, and expressing an interest in trying out a relationship with them again, if they want to. “Baby” reciprocates those feelings and they rekindle their relationship, with Ivan moving back to Montana while maintaining his job with Vesta Distribution, now working fully remote.
Apr 2021
"Darlin"'s hunt for Quinn leads them back to Dahlia. They are particularly drawn toward Wonderworld, where they can detect a vague impression of him from the small amounts of his blood that Frederick managed to spill while resisting Quinn's attack on Halloween night the year prior.
Asher and “Baaabe” build a pillow fort and relax together.
Pillow Fort Cuddles and Kisses With Your Sweet Werewolf Boyfriend
On an evening when Sam is keeping watch around Wonderworld, “Darlin” appears and asks about Quinn, saying they can detect his presence having been there. They are surprised to learn he hasn't been there in six months, and Sam is equally surprised that they could detect a trail that old. It shouldn't be possible. They explain that they’re hunting him down after he attacked a human friend of theirs in the past. Sam agrees to help if possible, but maintains that his first priority must be to the newborn vamps.
Camelopardalis seeks the help of a human empowered therapist at D.A.M.N. and admits to the terrible burden he put upon himself by managing the applicant's memory modification on his own. He now holds all the memories of their time with Ivan, and he had to live through them in order to erase them. Overcome by his conflicting desires to seek help but foster only serenity, he erases the therapist’s memories after confessing to his struggles rather than allowing them to try and help.
David and “Angel” go for a night swim together.
Vincent helps “Lovely” get some sleep.
“Lovely” meets William for the first time. He apologizes for not realizing Adam’s true colors sooner, affirms that “Lovely” has the full protections of the Clan, and attempts unsuccessfully to reveal some embarrassing stories about Vincent.
Meeting Your Vampire Boyfriend’s Maker (Ft. Hedral Wyrdsmythe)
May 2021
Lasko graduates with his full-certification from D.A.M.N. He is offered a full time position at the Academy as a joint guidance counselor/instructor, and accepts. He also chooses to continue his studies the next semester, seeking higher education in Air Elemental Command.
In an effort to get ahead of the criticisms about their policies and practices surrounding Humanborn individuals, the Department rolls out their Supplemental Humanborn Informative Training program.
The living arrangement that Guy and "Honey" are a part of becomes untenable, and they resolve to move out together and get their own place. They confess their feelings for one another, and begin a relationship.
"Smartass" is offered and accepts a position with a different company. A farewell party is thrown in their honor. Afterward, their former boss, Aaron, confronts them about their sudden distance from him as soon as they put in their two weeks notice. They each reveal their feelings for the other, and agree to go on a date now that they no longer work together.
"Smartass" and Aaron's relationship turns physical and they begin to date in earnest.
With the threat of Vega behind them, Caelum and “Freelancer” spend a lazy morning together like old times.
"Freelancer" organizes a bowling night with their friends. Gavin and Lasko are reunited for the first time since the 7/11 encounter. Huxley and Lasko are reunited for the first time in years. Damien, Gavin, and Huxley all meet each other for the first time. The gathering goes well, continuing late into the night after they all go to Huxley's apartment to play video games. The group begins the slow process of becoming friends in earnest.
David plays Destiny 2 while “Angel” keeps him company.
David's contacts in the Department finally relay the full story of Frederick and his friend's turning, having been slowed greatly in their research efforts by the House of Solaire's drive to maintain secrecy. The mentions of a rogue Vampire and the method of attack remind David of Quinn. He begins digging back into the Quinn case, looking for more information regarding his imprisonment.
D.U.M.P. and D.A.M.N. begin accepting bids for the security contract for the Elemental and Energetic Games scheduled to take place that December. The Shaw Pack puts in for consideration, though the drastic growth of the competition compared to its size when they last worked it leads to some hesitance on David's part to apply.
Elliott and "Sunshine" act out a dream that they've crafted, where "Sunshine" is a mage who gets to defeat a dragon and save Elliott.
Jun 2021
“Freelancer” hosts a party for their friends. Things heat up with Gavin in the kitchen.
Gavin admits the depth of his feelings for "Freelancer" to them, and they reciprocate the confession. Their relationship, while already serious, grows even deeper.
The Shaw Pack wins the bid for the 39th annual Elemental and Energetic Games, scheduled for December and hosted by D.A.M.N. Preparations begin.
“Darlin” gets into a fight with two Vampires while hunting Quinn. They survive the encounter, but with serious injuries. Sam lends his aid and insists again that they be more careful.
Asher plays Halo while “Baaabe” watches.
Vincent and “Lovely” have a romantic night together.
The Sunbound Solstice lands on Father’s Day, and the combination of those two affects David deeply. He leans heavily on “Angel” for support, and they happily provide it.
“Darlin” reaches out to Sam, hoping he might have answers. They admit that they themselves don’t know why they can track Quinn, and that they’re scared of the implications of that. Sam confirms that they must be bloodbound to Quinn, which will allow each side to detect the other’s blood when it’s outside their body. Given this danger, he again pleads with them to be careful.
David and "Angel" enjoy a hot day in the pool.
Hot and Wet in the Pool With Your Tsundere Werewolf Boyfriend
Aaron confronts “Smartass” about the nature of their relationship. They each discuss their needs and both come out of the conversation stronger for it.
David's research into Quinn reveals that "Darlin" had lied. Quinn was never apprehended by the Department, it was a ruse so that they could hunt him privately. David renews his efforts to get in contact with "Darlin", who has mostly been ignoring his attempts to communicate ever since they left Dahlia in the wake of the original attack.
Jul 2021
Having been unable to reach "Darlin", David makes contact with their family in Washington. They confirm that while "Darlin" really did return there and recovered, they also left months ago heading back to Dahlia. "Darlin" finally answers David soon afterward, but they lie again, telling him they're still in Washington. He starts putting together the full series of events.
Vincent and "Lovely" share an intimate moment underneath the Fourth of July fireworks.
Asher and "Baaabe" share a steamy picnic.
A Romantic Picnic Under the Hot Sun With Your Werewolf Boyfriend
Milo and "Sweetheart" go on a vacation up to a cabin that the Shaw Pack has frequented in prior years.
Caelum manages to get Camelopardalis and the applicant stuck together in an elevator. Cam gets to see firsthand the positive impact he has had on the applicant’s life, and while he still has a lot of work to do addressing his own trauma, he feels reinvigorated to seek help, the right way this time.
David helps “Angel” get back to sleep. He admits that he used to suffer from insomnia as a child resulting from repeated nightmares, but that his dad was a source of support.
D.U.M.P. releases an informative video outlining the history of the Elemental and Energetic Games and the qualifying process that will open in the coming months.
David reaches out to Sam to get more details regarding "Darlin"'s situation so that he can be better prepared to offer help.
Sam and David meet regarding "Darlin". David primarily wants to inform Sam of the danger that Quinn presents so that he and the rest of the House of Solaire can be prepared. He details the events that have led to this point, and asks if "Darlin" is all right. Sam confirms that they are. David explains his plan to confront "Darlin" and apologizes for having put Sam in an awkward position, stating that it's up to Sam whether or not he wants to warn "Darlin" about the pending meeting.
Sam warns "Darlin", and they choose to stay at their apartment until David arrives. He confronts them about their lies, and expresses that while he understands and can appreciate their motivations and their desire to keep the rest of the pack safe, their actions have instead put the pack into serious danger while simultaneously not alerting them to said danger. He adds that he's worried for them, having already heard about their attack on the two Vampires and their consistent disregard for their own safety. He and the rest of the pack want to help.
The Shaw Pack has a meeting to discuss the situation and make plans to lean on D.U.M.P. to pursue Quinn while they focus on safety measures in the face of the threat he poses.
"Darlin" asks Sam to come over after the meeting. They each affirm that neither is upset with the other, and Sam details his past with Alexis and the violent circumstances of his turning. They fall asleep together on the couch that night.
"Darlin" and Sam wake up the next day, and they confess their interest in one another. They don't yet settle on what they're going to be, but choose to just enjoy their time together and see what comes.
Aug 2021
"Freelancer" goes on a hike with Huxley before the coming semester. They discuss his bittersweet feelings towards his pending graduation and his excitement for the Elemental and Energetic Games, which he plans to enter for the first time.
"Freelancer" meets up with Damien before the coming semester. They discuss their plans for classes this year, and Damien encourages "Freelancer" to enter the Elemental and Energetic Games, which he also plans to enter for the first time.
"Freelancer" gets ice cream with Lasko before the coming semester. They discuss his excitement at having attained his full-certification, and his plans to jointly teach and act as a guidance counselor. He agrees that "Freelancer" should enter the Games, but has no interest in competing in them himself.
The Department assigns "Warden", an Inchoate Demon, to Vega's case, asking that they attempt to rehabilitate him. Their initial meeting does not involve much progress, but Vega expresses interest in "Warden"'s earnest nature and desire to help, though to what end is unclear.
"Lovely" hears about the Elemental and Energetic Games and is excited at the prospect of competing. Vincent is unfamiliar with the Games, but heartily encourages them to compete.
Ollie offers his partner comfort when they express concern over their struggle to reach a decision about their future.
"Sweetheart" tricks Milo into trying out the game Prey.
Tricking Your Feisty Werewolf Boyfriend Into Playing a Scary Game
Sep 2021
David and "Angel" spend the fourth anniversary of Gabe's passing at the camp site that he, David, and the rest of the pack used to frequent. David shares stories about his dad and finds comfort rather than sadness in that, which he finds encouraging. They scratch the lottery ticket that Gabe had bought him on their final trip together, and although it wins $20, David chooses to keep it.
Vincent begins learning Healing magic, taking courses at D.A.M.N. and training with Sam to help alleviate the pressure on Sam of being the only member of the House of Solaire with a knowledge of Healing.
"Freelancer" struggles to sleep one night when Gavin is away, and Caelum appears in order to help them. He mentions a fable involving two mythological figures, E'Laetum and Min'Ara, but doesn't expand on it.
Gavin and "Freelancer" share a day of domestic bliss, baking a cake together. "Freelancer" asks about E'Laetum and Min'Ara, and Gavin confirms that they are mythological figures, and that their story is particularly treasured by Empathy Daemons.
Everyone planning to enter the Elemental and Energetic Games continues to practice in preparation for the approaching Qualifier rounds.
Milo continues his playthrough of Prey, much to his chagrin and "Sweetheart"'s amusement.
Your Feisty Werewolf Boyfriend Continues Playing a Scary Game
David and the members of the Pack that work on the security team begin to learn the magic required to phase their clothes off and on when shifting. In the event of emergencies during security work when they might need to shift, it's an important skill to have, given the more public nature of their work nowadays.
"Warden" attempts to make progress with Vega. He is expectedly evasive, continuing to redirect the conversation back to notions of D[a]emonic mistreatment at the hands of the Department and the Department's difficulties managing affairs. He mentions that CloseKnit is undermining confidence in them, and the Solitaires, a group devoted to D[a]emonic independence, is putting increased pressure on them as well. Before the conversation can finish, a group of Solitaires invades the containment facility. They release all the D[a]emons in containment, knock out "Warden" (who had tried to resist them), and briefly try to draw Vega to their side, but he defeats them easily and escapes with the unconscious "Warden".
Regulus is one of the daemons released during the containment break. He immediately seeks to find his prior victim.
"Warden" awakens to find themself in Vega's care, heavily wounded from their conflict with the Solitaires. Vega attempts to help them, but requires that it be done on his terms, providing only sadistic energies to feed on.
Vega and "Warden" grow closer as his care for them continues. He begins answering more of their questions, though he continues to guide the conversation into the areas he prefers. He affirms that he is not a member of the Solitaires, desiring a more complete form of independence from humanity. He wants to find a way to again use the Sovereigns as a food source so that d[a]emonkind can leave Terra completely. "Warden" believes the Sovereigns to be myth, but Vega insists that isn't the case.
Oct 2021
Vega feels that "Warden" has recovered enough to take care of themself, and announces his plan to leave. He offers to take "Warden" with him if they wish, and they are tempted by the offer. Vega tells them more about the Sovereigns and the existential threat they represent, as well as the dangers of CloseKnit finding them first. "Warden" accepts his offer and they begin their quest in earnest.
In light of the containment breaches, the Department orders tighter security for the upcoming Qualifier events. While the Games in December will remain open to the public, the Qualifiers are made private, viewable only by other competitors and volunteer staff.
David has been taking the lead on the preparations for the Elemental and Energetic Games, and as a result, Asher has stepped up to manage the current security gigs the Shaw Pack has picked up. The strain wears away at him, but "Baaabe" carves out some time for them to relax together.
"Lovely" has a nightmare about their time with Adam. Vincent reassures them that that does not mean they haven't made progress. He comforts them and helps them get back to sleep.
Aaron is incredibly stressed out by his work at Vesta Distribution Co. "Smartass" resolves to help him relieve some of that stress, and is very successful.
"Baaabe" and Asher spend quality time together relaxing on the couch.
Ollie and his partner play Sorry.
Caelum returns to visit "Freelancer" and they bake cookies together.
Regulus finally tracks down his prior victim and ensnares them again. Their memories of him have been wiped previously, but he is unfazed and his obsession continues to spiral. He wipes their boyfriend's memories of them to remove any competition.
Regulus attempts to help his victim get to sleep by telling them the folklore story of the Starchildren, Skygods, and Landborn. Though he also believes it to be myth, he is unknowingly telling them the true story of the Sovereigns and their ancient conflict with humanity and daemonkind.
Aaron stays up far later than intended in order to finish work. "Smartass" coerces him to return to bed.
Nov 2021
"Freelancer" and Gavin spend a lazy morning in bed together at Gavin's insistence.
Stress on many fronts has been wearing David thin for months now, and "Angel" is determined to help with that.
"Smartass" tries, unsuccessfully, to keep Aaron in bed while he resolves to get up and work around the house.
Keeping Your Workaholic Tsundere Boyfriend in Bed For Cuddles
"Freelancer" competes in the Qualifiers for the Elemental and Energetic Games. No non-competitors can be present due to the stricter policies resulting from the containment breaches, meaning Gavin can't be present, but as volunteer-staff, Lasko is exempt. Damien and Huxley are stuck in their onboarding during "Freelancer"'s Qualifier performance. Lasko is able to stay on-hand to support "Freelancer", though. "Freelancer" performs well and qualifies for the D.A.M.N. team.
"Freelancer" makes it to Huxley just before he is called to perform his qualifier exhibition. They wish him luck and he performs exceedingly well, setting a new record for the category and making the D.A.M.N. team.
Moving Earth at the Elemental and Energetic Games Qualifiers
Huxley, Lasko, and "Freelancer" watch Damien's performance. He qualifies for the D.A.M.N. team.
Setting Fires at the Elemental and Energetic Games Qualifiers
Gavin, Huxley, Lasko, Damien, and "Freelancer" all celebrate late into the night.
"Freelancer" volunteers to sign in competitors for the remaining Qualifiers. They finally meet Xavier, Huxley's team captain and friend, and they give him some much appreciated distraction and support in the lead up to his performance. He sets a new record and easily makes the D.A.M.N. team.
"Lovely" returns from their Qualifiers and excitedly shares the footage of it with Vincent. They successfully qualified, and Vincent tells them how proud of them he is.
Shock and Awe at the Elemental and Energetic Games Qualifiers
Aaron concedes to stay in bed on a rainy morning, and asks that later that day they play some cards, an activity that reminds him of good times with his family.
The D.A.M.N. friends spend Thanksgiving together. Gavin delights in teasing Damien until he is finally kicked out of the kitchen. Damien orders Huxley to help him finish up cooking, needing his calming presence. Gavin inquires with Lasko about attaining full certification, and admits that he's interested in achieving it still, even all these years later. They all enjoy dinner together.
Geordi realizes that "Cutie" is listening to his thoughts almost nonstop. They have an important conversation about boundaries, consent, and privacy, and "Cutie" promises to correct their behavior going forward.
Gavin and "Freelancer" go ice skating, taking advantage of the respite in their schedules.
Blake, a Seer masquerading as a Dreamwalker, reconnects with his childhood friend and attempts to convince them that he has found an answer to many of the questions that they used to theorize about. He believes that CloseKnit has the information they seek, and tries to convince them to come to a meeting with him.
Regulus’s victim continues to dream of the boyfriend they had while Regulus was imprisoned. This frustrates the daemon, and he begins to use stronger techniques to try to bend them to his will, replacing their boyfriend in their memories with an image of himself. He doubles down on his intention to rework the victim’s mind to make them into the partner he wants them to be.
"Warden" attempts to suggest some plans for seeking out the Sovereigns to Vega, but he shuts them all down, stating that they would not be possible. When "Warden" questions his ability to know that, Vega finally reveals that he was there at the time of the Cacophony and participated in the war against the Sovereigns. While he considers himself irreparably changed from what he was then, he considered it his purpose to hold onto as much of the memory of those events as possible, for when they would be useful. That time has now come. He plans to reach the Sovereigns through CloseKnit, and he is honest with "Warden" that that will involve hurting people. If that's not something they are comfortable with, he understands, but then they need to part ways now. "Warden" chooses to stay with Vega and see it through.
Another night of working late leaves Aaron burnt out and ready for a break.
Dec 2021
David organizes a trip for later in the month for the Shaw Pack and their guests to go up to the cabins to celebrate the Solstice and unwind before the hard work the Games will call for.
Brachium establishes contact with "Sunshine". A mental connection has unknowingly formed between them somehow as a result of Brachium's interference in their near-loss in the river of Death. He has detected a force, which he calls a Drove, that is growing immensely in strength beneath the River and he fears that without help, something terrible might occur. He implores "Sunshine" to seek out the counterpoints to the growing power in death that exist in the living world.
"Sunshine" tells Elliott what occurred. He's skeptical, but curious. He helps forge a connection between himself, "Sunshine", and Brachium in a dreamscape. The dreamscape is overtaken by the visual of the river of Death, and the sight of it unearths Elliott's buried memories from his own time in the river during his drowning. Brachium explains the danger, and they agree to see what they can find.
"Sunshine" and Elliott drive to Dahlia, a location that Elliott hasn't visited in years. He tells them more about his experience as a pseudo-humanborn (as a result of his adoption by an unempowered family), his education in becoming Labyrinth Black certified, and Dahlia.
Sam notes that Frederick and his progeny have reached a point of independence now, which he's grateful for, but he harbors fears that he hasn't adequately mentored them. "Darlin” reassures him. They also invite Sam to join them on the Pack Solstice trip. Sam is nervous that he'll be imposing, but "Darlin" assures him that David said he's more than welcome. He agrees. Sam confirms that he will be attending the Elemental and Energetic Games at Vincent's request. "Darlin" affirms that they won't be working security that night and don't plan to attend. They begin to escalate their intimacy, but Sam asks for things to stay at this level for a while. "Darlin" happily agrees.
Vincent takes "Lovely" north to William's illustrious SkySide property. He explains some of its history, and they revel in the amenities there.
Elliott and "Sunshine" reach Dahlia and start investigating. They can detect the counterpoints Brachium mentioned within a building owned by CloseKnit. They decide to go to a meeting to try to learn more about the mysterious group.
Geordi and "Cutie" go to the show he had bought tickets to. They have a good time, but when they arrive home, the heater is broken. They find a more fun way to generate heat in the meantime.
David, Asher, "Angel", and "Baaabe" arrive at the cabins one night early so that they can get everything set up.
"Angel" wakes up to find David chopping wood. The rest of the Pack is on their way and will be arriving soon. "Darlin" and Sam will be arriving that evening due to the sunlight. David stresses how important it is to him that Sam be made to feel welcome, and he asks Asher to keep an eye out for him.
Asher and "Baaabe" wake up early and take advantage of the fact that they arrived earlier than the others to get in some sledding before the rest of the Pack arrives.
Milo and "Sweetheart" enjoy some time in front of the fireplace before the Solstice party begins. They discuss the stress "Sweetheart" is going through as an investigator for the Department in light of the containment breaches, and Milo's concerns about the Games ahead.
Getting Hot by the Fireplace With Your Feisty Werewolf Boyfriend
The Pack Solstice party begins in earnest. Sam meets Asher and Milo for the first time, and they do their best to make him feel welcome amidst their joking. David greets him and reaffirms that he's a welcome guest and he's glad Sam is present. Christian and Arden bicker and are found by Kelsey, who alerts Asher to Christian's presence. Asher gives Christian a birthday gift in an effort to smooth over old tensions. Milo and "Sweetheart" run into Bailey and Ansel of the Keaton Pack, and they trade childhood memories and work stories. David gives a rousing speech affirming the promise that the Pack all hold, to be there for one another.
After four days of rowdy celebrations, the Pack and their guests return to Dahlia. The Elemental and Energetic Games are mere days away.
David and the security team do a dry run in preparation for the Games. Everyone affirms that by now they are well versed in phasing their clothes while Shifting. The dry run goes well, and although stress levels remain high, the pack feels confident in their ability to manage the event.
The 39th annual Elemental and Energetic Games officially begin on December 29th, hosted by the Dahlia Academy for Magical Novices. The spectacle is set to run for three days, drawing large crowds to the Academy stadium each day, and live feeds of it are broadcast nationally. Hudson acts as the announcer for the Games and coordinates with David's security team throughout. Lasko takes on a role as volunteer-staff, helping to get the competitors to their performance events on time. The first day of events includes (but is not limited to) the Combination Elemental, Water Elemental, and Air Elemental events. On the first day of the games, "Freelancer" meets with Lasko ahead of their performance. He encourages them, but is drawn away briefly at which point Kody appears and taunts them, attending the Games as a representative for the McKinley Academy. Lasko gets Kody alone and warns him to leave "Freelancer" alone, but Kody rebuffs him. "Freelancer" completes their event, getting eighth place. Damien, Huxley, Lasko, and "Freelancer" celebrate.
Damien, Huxley, Lasko, Gavin, and "Freelancer" go out for a celebratory dinner.
Caelum celebrates "Freelancer"'s success and congratulates them. He departs soon afterward to go tend to another of his charges. Gavin congratulates "Freelancer" again, and helps them relax in the wake of their exertion.
The second day of the Elemental and Energetic Games begins on the 30th and includes the Fire and Earth Elemental events. Lasko and "Freelancer" barely make it inside the reinforcing Ward before the events begin. During performances, a Ward is brought down around the stadium and surrounding grounds to isolate the effects of the performances and maintain covert, maintained by a large contingent of advanced Warders distributed at discrete locations for security's sake. "Freelancer" meets with Huxley and they watch Damien's performance together. Damien performs exceptionally, getting third overall and earning the bronze medal. He brings his friends to meet his mother, who was watching in the crowd. Huxley does his event and easily takes first place, earning the gold and setting a new national record.
The third and final day of the Elemental and Energetic Games begins on the 31st and includes the Contra-Elemental and Energetic categories. Vincent and Sam head to the stadium by Department issued transport and are escorted up to a special viewing box to be safe from the sunlight. The pack continues their security efforts, having worked the event thus far with few issues. One of the D.A.M.N. staff members that was intended to walk the medals into the stadium for the ceremony that evening is unable to attend, so Lasko volunteers to do so. Xavier performs his event and gets first place, setting a new national record. Sam and Vincent watch "Lovely" perform, and they get second place. Sam and Vincent congratulate them heartily.
Blake and his friend attend a CloseKnit outreach meeting. CloseKnit's bigoted views are very quickly made apparent, and Blake's friend is unsettled. Unbeknownst to them, Elliott and "Sunshine" are attending the same meeting as part of their investigation.
Aaron finally earns his promotion, becoming the Director of Accounting at Vesta Distribution Co. He attempts to share the news with Elliott, but Elliott doesn't answer. Aaron resolves not to let that bring down his mood, fully unaware of the circumstances that are preventing Elliott from responding.
Deeply unsettled by the content of the CloseKnit meeting, Elliott and "Sunshine" are led to a back room to discuss particulars about joining. They defy efforts to separate them, and after unproductive questioning, they are momentarily left alone. Elliott and "Sunshine" decide to make a run for it, but are knocked unconscious in their attempt. They awaken in the building's basement with Blake, who tells them that he knows about Brachium and plans to use their connection to him to open communications with the realm of Death. He draws "Sunshine" into a dreamscape.
Brachium manages to enter the dream as well, and uses his powers to shelter "Sunshine" for as long as he can, but his abilities in the dreamscape are limited. Brachium has realized that he has been misled in his believed purpose, and that his memories of his past have been occluded from him. He vows to defend them in any way he can, but his powers are fading. He uses the last of his strength to reassure "Sunshine" that they can beat Blake, and to draw Elliott into the dream for support. As he reawakens in the river of Death, he hears a deep, rhythmic drumming coming from deep in Death, near the Veil. He wonders if maybe they are too late after all.
"Sunshine" finds Elliott in the dreamscape, but he is still powerless because his core has been muted by Blake. Blake finds them both and is furious. He emotionally torments "Sunshine" with memories of their fatal car accident and tortures Elliott. They concede to his demands so that he will stop. Blake offers to free Elliott if "Sunshine" will help him open a dialogue with Brachium. They agree, against Elliott's wishes.
"Sunshine", Blake, and Elliott reemerge in the waking world. Elliott is taken away, and Blake informs "Sunshine" that his memories of them will be removed, but promises that they will be restored if they succeed. "Sunshine" tries to inquire about Blake's motives, and he informs them that all of this is being done to save his friend, who is in mortal danger of some kind. He rebukes further conversation attempts and leaves.
Avior, an Inchoate Demon, attempts to covertly feed on Blake, who he assumes to be a Dreamwalker that is associated with CloseKnit. Blake detects him and attempts to rebuff Avior. In the confusion, Avior tries to Rift away, but due to the urgency of the situation he doesn't realize that his Rift pulls in "Starlight" as well, an innocent human bystander. This would usually result in the human's death, as a human can't survive in Aria, the endpoint of all Rifts. But the Rift seemingly collapses midway with both Avior and "Starlight" in it, implying that they are somehow trapped in the Meridian itself, the space between Terra and Aria. It takes the appearance of a warped version of Dante's imagining of Hell, which Avior correctly suspects is due to Blake's limited influence through the confluence of his, Avior's, and ultimately the Meridian's combined powers.
Blake arrives at his friend's house that evening, and recognizing that they didn't approve of the meeting's contents, he reaffirms that his friendship with them is more important than any affiliation he has with that group. They admit to him that they've been having trouble sleeping, and he helps them get to sleep, spending the night in their home on their couch.
Avior and "Starlight" struggle to find a way out of the collapsed Rift, unsure if it is a natural occurrence, a trap of Blake's design, or something else entirely. They are suspcious of each other, but form a bond over time and begin a relationship in the collapsed Rift. Eventually they develop a plan to get out, but during the execution of it, "Starlight" begins to be absorbed into the fabric of the Meridian. Believing this will kill them, Avior expends all of his power in one explosive burst that successfully tears "Starlight" free of the collapsed Rift but leaves him still trapped within it.
Avior realizes that he can see outside of the collapsed Rift into the real world, as if a window has been presented to him. Through it he sees that "Starlight" is indeed back in the real world, but their memories of the events within the Rift are gone, and Avior's perception of time has clearly been radically warped by some force, where years in the Rift amount to only minutes in the real world. Avior's only hope is to pull "Starlight" back into the Rift, but he resists for years, wanting them to be free.
Avior finally caves and reluctantly pulls "Starlight" back in. Because they have no memory of him or the Rift, he initially tries to keep them at arm's length with a rude, sarcastic façade so that they won't repeat their life-threatening attempt to free them both from the Rift, though it's a struggle to maintain the facade.
Avior and "Starlight" develop feelings for each other again, and before they can become any more serious, Avior tells them the full truth. "Starlight" is initially furious at the deception, but comes to understand Avior's reasoning. They choose to attempt to break them both free of the Rift again, and this time, at their insistence, Avior doesn't intervene.
"Starlight" is fully enveloped by the Meridian, who reveals themselves as the combined essences of the Sovereigns E'Laetum and Min'Ara. The Sovereigns confirm that they are responsible for collapsing the rift and for forcing Avior to draw "Starlight" back in, acts which they feel no regret for because they were in service of a greater good: the Meridian is failing, and only the strength of another Sovereign will reinforce it. The collapsed Rift was their only way of establishing communication with someone on Terra, hence their actions. "Starlight" and Avior are tasked with finding a way to repair the Meridian and are deposited back on Terra.
Unbeknownst to Avior or "Starlight", E'Laetum and Min'Ara chose to enact a contingency plan, using Avior as the vessel to get it onto the material plane of Terra, without his knowledge or permission. That contingency plan is Hush, an immensely powerful being that is the silence of the Spellsong given form and shape. He is given a clear, but limited directive: get a Sovereign and bring it to the Meridian to re-empower them, and do whatever is necessary to remove anyone that tries to stop him in those efforts.
The Medals Ceremony of the Elemental and Energetic Games is scheduled to start at 7PM. The stadium is the fullest it has been throughout the entire Games. Lasko and Milo begin the process of escorting the medals toward the stadium. Ahead of them, Asher and David guard the MVPs that will be presenting the medals. Gavin and "Freelancer" wait in the crowd at the stadium to watch Huxley and Damien receive their medals. Hudson begins announcing the closing ceremony at David's signal. In their viewing box, Vincent and Sam suddenly start to hear the rhythmic drumming that Brachium had heard earlier, but they don't know the source. In Death, Brachium's greatest fears are realized as the drumming reaches a fever pitch and a force deep in the river speaks, telling him that death has arrived. In the living world, an aperture tears open in the sky above the stadium. Shades, malevolent beings from the realm of death that drain humans of their lifeforce, begin pouring into the stadium through the portal. Chaos erupts. Gavin attempts to get the "Freelancer" to safety. Outside the stadium, Milo, David, Asher, and Lasko watch in horror, unsure of what's happening. David rushes to the control booth to find out the gravity of the situation. The people in the stadium attempt to escape onto the grounds as the shades begin their overwhelming assault on the helpless crowd. Some kind of interference disables long range communication and electronic signals in the Shades' proximity. At David's order, Milo escorts the MVPs to the safety of their van while Asher meets his Alpha in the control booth. David, Asher, and Hudson observe that the attacking force are Shades and try to make a plan before it's too late. Hudson suggests sealing the Ward, which might be able to hold them in place so they can't escape and ravage all of Dahlia and beyond. David is faced with the impossible decision to either reactivate the Ward and contain the outbreak but trap everyone in the stadium and surrounding grounds with them, or do nothing and allow the Shades to escape. He reactivates the Ward. As it prepares to seal, he rushes onto the grounds to defend anyone inside it that he can. Asher follows him in. Milo tries to follow them, but is seconds too late. The ward seals, trapping him outside and the others inside. Brachium realizes hopelessly that he was too late, and that the cause is lost. The river runs both ways tonight, with a floodtide of Shades pouring into the living world and the countless victims being taken by death.
Gavin realizes the Ward is sealing and manages to rush "Freelancer" to the outer boundary before it seals. He plans to stay and help, but is clearly in some kind of pain. "Freelancer" jumps back in just as the Ward seals, determined to stay with him. Asher and David run toward the stadium, but the interference prevents them from hearing the other Shifters through the link they usually share while shifted unless they stay close. The radios equally struggle to work at anything but short range communication, and phones can't get a signal. They commit to helping as many people as possible to escape the stadium, planning to regroup somewhere more easily defended. Lasko finds Milo and tells him that the Department has arrived. Milo rushes to meet them. Inside the Ward, Damien and Huxley fight to escape the stadium. Their position on the main stage leaves them at the epicenter of the chaos, fighting to find a way out. They are nearly lost to collateral damage in the crowded hallways by those trying to fight back against the Shades, but they manage to get outside only to realize that the Ward has been activated. Vincent is frantic to reach "Lovely". Sam steadies him and helps him use his connection to them to locate them in the chaos. They head that way. Milo meets with Commissioner Jett, who is leading the Department efforts at the disaster. Jett tells him they won't drop the Ward until sufficient demon forces arrive, because with no ability to see what is happening in the Ward, including how many Shades they are facing, he feels they will need their strength in order to stand a chance. Milo is furious and storms away, meeting up with Lasko to update him and try to reassure him.
Milo calls the mates and rest of the Pack and informs them of the disaster.
"Starlight" and Avior attempt to help as the Inversion event unfolds. Avior goes to warn the Chorus, while "Starlight" does what they can from outside the ward.
Gavin is severely affected by the overwhelming emotions from the panicking masses, with it being drastically amplified by the sealing of the Ward turning it into an echo-chamber for the emotional energy. He struggles to use his powers to help others regardless. David and Asher continue to shepherd people out of the stadium, directing them to a position out on the fringes of the Ward where they are trying to set up a defensible position. It becomes clear that the Shades are confused by the wolves when they are in their shifted form, and David and Asher use this to their advantage. Damien and Huxley try to think of ways to repel or defeat the Shades, but have no conclusive results. Shades are intangible until they have absorbed enough lifeforce, at which point they solidify and become vulnerable to physical attacks, but that advantage only comes at a high loss of innocent life. Sam and Vincent find "Lovely" and escape outside, but find the Ward has sealed. Gavin and "Freelancer" reach the stadium and Gavin tries to use his powers to disable the Shades, but the cumulative effects of the emotional bombardment cause him to collapse. Xavier attempts to buy them time while "Freelancer" drags Gavin to relative safety. Xavier dies at the hands of the Shades. "Freelancer"'s fear ignites Gavin's core, and his powers manifest, forming a new defensive Ward within the existing one.
Milo confronts Jett about his lack of action, but is turned away again. He decides to take matters into his own hands. David and Asher struggle to establish a defensible area for the survivors they have helped move away from the stadium. The other members of the pack set up similar positions on the far side of the grounds. "Sweetheart", "Angel", and "Baaabe" all arrive at the scene separately. "Angel" runs into Lasko, who offers to take them to Milo. "Sweetheart" finds Milo, and they share a brief moment together before "Angel" and "Baaabe" arrive. Milo explains the situation as best he can, then draws "Sweetheart" aside to inform them of a plan he has come up with. Inside the Ward, many of the Shades have absorbed enough lifeforce to become solid, and in doing so, have become vulnerable to traditional attacks. Asher and David fight off another wave of them, and in the brief respite afterward assess their situation. It is dire. With no communication to the outside world, they have no idea when or if help is coming. The survivors, themselves included, are running out of magic from overuse. As the Shades grow stronger, they no longer are confused by the shifted wolves and their tactics are improving. Asher notes that David is upset with him, and though he initially denies it, David admits that he while he knew Asher would follow him in, he wishes he hadn't, because he fears for Asher's life. Asher counters that he will always follow David, not because he is his Alpha, but because he is his best friend and what they have together is more than the promise of comradery that the rest of the pack shares. They tell one another that they love each other and share an embrace before parting so that they can face the coming wave of Shades. They promise one another that this isn't the end and that they will survive this. Asher doesn't actually believe this, but he doesn't say so aloud.
Gavin's Ward within the Ward has become a focal point for the Shade's assault. While he's grateful for that on one hand, because it means that those outside of it are likely safer, it is putting him under incredible strain that threatens to destroy him. Damien and Huxley are on the run, trying to reach a defendable position with a group of survivors. A wave of Shades descends on them, and Huxley and Damien order the others to run while they try to fight them off and buy time. The Shades avoid their attacks and join with a flanking group that come together to wipe out all the remaining survivors that had been with the Elementals, despite their best efforts. Damien and Huxley, alone again and out of options, continue toward the training grounds. Vincent, "Lovely", and Sam find David and Asher's safe zone. Shaw Pack Alpha and Solaire Prince meet for the first time. Sam, Vincent, and "Lovely" commit themselves to the defense of the survivors, for which David is grateful. The situation has continued to grow worse, with almost constant assault by Shades. David is dismissive of his own injuries, but hours of constant fighting have taken a terrible toll on him. Nate Wexler, a Department officer, arrives at the control booth and informs Jett that the Ward is weakening. He asks if they are cleared to seek help from non-Department demons, but amid fears that the Chorus has been organizing attacks on Department facilities, the idea is rejected. Damien and Huxley reach the observation tower of the training grounds, but find it occupied by a Water Elemental who uses his powers to push them away, refusing to help them or share the space. Damien realizes that it's Kody and storms into the tower against Huxley's objections and confronts him. Kody admits to using his powers to secure the spot only for himself, pushing away other survivors and leaving them at the Shades' mercy. Disgusted, Damien attacks Kody until Huxley is finally able to drag him off the other man and back out onto the field. Damien fully breaks down under the strain of the horrific losses they've witnessed. Huxley manages to steady him, insisting that he's here and won't leave Damien. They head in the direction of the sounds of resistance, not knowing that it's in fact David and Asher's safe zone. Milo tells "Sweetheart" his plan to disrupt the Warders’ magic so that the Ward will fall, at which point the assembled might of D.A.M.N. and Dahlia can defeat the Shades. "Sweetheart" agrees to help.
Gavin's Ward starts to collapse as the terrible strain of the Shade's bombardment and the survivors emotional overload begins to literally tear him apart. "Freelancer" is able to ground him enough to keep him intact, barely, and the Ward holds for the time being. Milo asks Lasko to rally the students and staff of D.A.M.N. to be ready for when the Ward drops. Lasko doesn't think he can, but Milo reassures him, and he agrees. Milo attempts to go alone, but "Sweetheart" insists on joining him. Inside the Ward, the largest wave of Shades yet assaults the Shifter's hideout, pushing the defense team to their absolute limit. Vincent barely saves "Lovely" from an attack, and is flanked as a result. "Lovely" manages to drive them off him, but is caught off guard in the wake of it and is violently drained within an inch of their life. Vincent kills the Shade and tries to heal "Lovely", but it isn't working. Asher is brutally struck down by a Shade and sustains mortal injuries. David runs to him, but the damage is already done. David cries out for Sam, who appears, and begs the Vampire to help heal Asher. Sam does, channeling his own and David's remaining magic to heal Asher, who finally awakens. David breaks down in relief as Vincent calls out for Sam. Lasko uses the intercom at D.A.M.N. to try and rally everyone there to go to the Ward to help. The efforts are successful. Sam arrives to find "Lovely" dying in Vincent's arms, unable to be healed because their lifeforce has been drained. He tells Vincent the only option remaining would be to turn them. Vincent asks if that is what "Lovely" wants, saying that he will spend eternity at their side if they let him, but that he won't turn them unless it's truly what they want. They affirm that it is, and he does.
Asher and "Lovely" are moved down into the underground area that they have been defending. Sam tries to convince David to join them, but the Alpha refuses. Another wave of Shades attacks. David struggles to shift, but ignores Sam's objections and successfully transforms. The Shade's assault begins anew, and after hours of nonstop fighting, David's strength finally gives out. A strike from a Shade throws him to the ground and knocks him back into his human form, his magic completely spent. Just before it can finish him, Damien and Huxley arrive and drive them off. Damien tells Huxley to get David to safety while he holds off the next wave. Sam is overwhelmed by a Shade and only just succeeds in defeating it. He and Vincent share a brief moment, realizing that their strength and magic have been used up. The commit to bringing as many of the Shades down with them as they can, and prepare to make their last stand. Damien expends all of his remaining magic trying to keep the Shade's assault at bay, but it isn't enough. His powers run dry, and he believes it is the end. Huxley arrives back just as a Shade violently attacks the Fire Elemental, and Huxley's fury explodes into a violent earthquake that consumes the Shade and tears the earth asunder. Outside the Ward, Milo and "Sweetheart" feel the earthquake wrack the grounds, and realize that that means the Ward must be considerably weakened. Fearing the Department may find a way to reinforce it, they immediately execute their plan. Milo reveals that he plans to step into the convergence point of the Warders' magic, using his ability as a Shifter to absorb magic to destabilize the Ward. He isn't sure what the effects to his own body will be. He and "Sweetheart" share a kiss, and he steps in, unsure if he will step back out alive. It is a success, disrupting the magic and dropping the Ward. The assembled crowds successfully destroy the Shades. Jett orders that the area be secured and that all survivors are led to the triage stations. Lasko finds Huxley and Damien and helps them get to the healing stations. "Angel" and "Baaabe" reach David and Asher and they reunite. "Darlin" finds Sam, and he finally breaks down in their arms. Vincent races "Lovely" to safety. Milo regains consciousness, heavily wounded, and he and "Sweetheart" make their way outside. They successfully make radio contact with David and Asher, and he collapses in relief. Brachium comes to the realization that this act wasn't meant as an invasion, but rather as a feast, where the forces below the river of Death could gorge on the magic and energy of those who died. He wonders how much time they have left before something greater than Shades breaks free.
With the lowering of the ward, "Starlight" and Avior rush in and help with the disaster relief efforts.
2022
Jan 2022
One hour after the Inversion disaster resolves, Vincent has "Lovely" safely back to their home and meets with William, who has been terrified for them after hearing the news. William comforts Vincent as best he can, and Vincent begs him to Invoke him like William once did to Alexis, taking away his ability to ever Invoke "Lovely". He doesn't ever want to have that power over them. William reminds him of the importance of having that ability, and Vincent agrees, but still insists that he doesn't want it, and since "Lovely" will no longer be able to lie to him due to the bond of truth inherent to the Maker-Progeny relationship, he asks that he be made to not be able to lie to them, either. William agrees, and does so.
Turned Into a Vampire By Your Boyfriend (Ft. Hedral Wyrdsmythe)
Gavin and "Freelancer" arrive home two hours after the Inversion resolution. Gavin's injuries are severe, but mending. Caelum appears, and the widespread pain and fear tearing through all of Dahlia overwhelms him and he has a breakdown. Gavin successfully gathers enough strength to rift the Empathy Daemon back to Aria. Delphinus, Caelum's steward, takes Caelum into his care. The distance from Terra is enough to help Caelum be steadied. Gavin returns to "Freelancer" and collapses at the exertion of more magic usage. He explains that the emotional overload has made it so that the simple act of being on this plane will bring Caelum pain until things calm a bit. "Freelancer" helps him to bed, and they hold each other.
"Lovely" wakes up. Vincent is there and comforts them while also explaining the situation as best he can.
Turned Into a Vampire By Your Boyfriend (Ft. Hedral Wyrdsmythe)
Elliott awakens in front of an Incubus, Scorpius. Scorpius informs him about the plan to remove his memories and the demon's obligation to do so despite his reservations about it. Elliott begs him not to, and they manage to reach an agreement wherein Scorpius will only briefly mute his memories so that Elliott can be led away, and Elliott can then muster the necessary forces to bring down CloseKnit and free both "Sunshine" and Scorpius. They enact the plan, and Elliott is escorted away.
As promised, Blake lets "Sunshine" watch Elliott be escorted out. They then enter the dreamscape again, hoping to lure in Brachium. The Deathwalker doesn't appear, still too drained to make the connection. In his frustration, Blake's memories of his friend begin to seep through into the dream, allowing "Sunshine" to get some information on Blake's motives. They leave the dreamscape, and "Sunshine" tries to push with the information they now have, but Blake aggressively rebukes them. That evening, he returns to his friend's home and confesses that it was a difficult day that's been wearing on him heavily, and they comfort him. They ask him to spend the night again. He happily agrees.
Blake relaxes with his friend, and they reassure him that they want him to spend the night. They ask why he left their life in the past. He explains that after a one-night stand that the two of them had in high school, he wanted to be in a relationship with them, but they didn’t at the time, and that it started a push and pull between them of seeking and resisting distance from one another to sort out their feelings. He asks to stay in their life from here on out, even just as friends. They kiss him, but he pulls away, stating in clear terms that if they do this and attempt a relationship, he’s never going to want to let them go, making his obsessive and possessive tendencies apparent. He asks that they not do this unless they are absolutely sure that’s what they want. They kiss him, accepting.
The Department releases their official statement on the Inversion disaster, noting the 1500 lives lost, the lack of leads on who could be responsible for the attack, and the assurance that they will do everything they can to investigate, provide support, and ensure safety. All large scale multi-member magical competitions, exhibitions, and experimentation are put on indefinite hiatus under suspicions that the high amounts of concentrated magic usage may have had a hand in the formation of the Inversion aperture. Permanent Department security forces will be stationed in all cornerstone cities and major academies and will supersede and integrate any existing local-government operated equivalents. Permanent surveillance and containment teams will be stationed at the formation point of the Inversion aperture in Dahlia. Entrance to that zone is restricted to approved Department personnel. Department-mandated safety and emergency response requirements and documentation will be issued to all empowered businesses, academies, and institutions, and compliance will be overseen by the Empowered Public Security Administration.
01-01-2022 Statement | Department of Uniform Magical Practices
Elliott's memories slowly begin to trickle back as he finds himself alone on the streets of Dahlia. He remembers enough to know he needs help, and he seeks out a Department office. When he reaches one, he realizes that it is absolute chaos. He learns about the Inversion event, which just occurred the night before. Overwhelmed, he stumbles back out into the streets, and not knowing what else to do in that moment, calls his brother Aaron and asks to see him.
Aaron and "Smartass" enjoy a lazy morning together, celebrating "Smartass"'s promotion at their company. Their relaxation is disrupted when Aaron receives an unexpected call from Elliott for the first time in years. He answers and can immediately tell how distressed his brother is. Elliott asks to see him, and Aaron readily agrees, asking for details, but Elliott says he'll provide them when he gets there and hangs up.
Blake arrives back at the CloseKnit facility and takes “Sunshine” down to a secure level. He explains to them that he has no actual allegiance to CloseKnit, but is instead using their resources to his advantage. He reveals that Shades are beings created by the Sovereigns trapped in Death as ways of communicating with the living, provided they absorb enough lifeforce, and explains that CloseKnit received that message and formed into what it is today as a result. In an attempt to force Brachium’s hand, Blake threatens to allow a Shade to kill “Sunshine” if he doesn’t appear in the dreamscape. Brachium concedes, and asks why Blake is doing all of this. Blake reveals that he isn’t actually a Dreamwalker, but is instead a Seer, and that no matter what he tries to change, he can’t escape visions of his friend’s death. He believes the Sovereigns can explain or prevent that. Brachium calls him a fool, but agrees to ask them on Blake’s behalf in order to keep “Sunshine” safe.
"Cutie" learns about the Inversion disaster, and although they didn't lose anyone in it, they are terrified at the implications of the disaster. Geordi tries to help comfort them as best he can.
Elliott arrives at Aaron’s house and confirms discretely that the problem he’s facing has to do with magic. He and Aaron go for a drive to discuss it privately. Elliott tells Aaron that he believes Aaron hates him. Aaron fiercely refutes this, discussing the pain of their childhood while reasserting that he loves Elliott and wants him in his life. Elliott breaks down and explains through the tears everything that has happened up to this point. Aaron is understandably confused, but reassures Elliott that he’s going to help him, and they decide to go back to the house, explain all of this to “Smartass”, and come up with a plan.
Aaron and Elliott return to Aaron's home, where he intends to tell "Smartass" that magic exists. To his shock, when he tries to explain it, he finds that they already know about it due to an ex-partner who was empowered. The three of them then try to form a plan, and ultimately decide that despite the chaos of the Inversion, they have to go to the Department. They keep the explanation simple, not involving Brachium, not surmising on the connection to the Inversion, just stating that CloseKnit has taken "Sunshine". Despite the administrative chaos, they do eventually get through to an investigator, and he promises to organize a group to get "Sunshine" out.
Brachium descends deeper into Death so that he can commune with the Drove and ask them Blake's question. They initially rebuke him, but eventually offer to answer the question if Brachium will bind himself to follow a single order of theirs, to be determined at a future date. Brachium agrees, and the Drove confirms that they are responsible for twisting events to always lead to the death of Blake's love, all in an effort to get him to break so that he might be of service to them. They then send Brachium away without further detail.
Brachium returns and tells Blake what the Drove said, and that any effort to negotiate will likely fail. They consider him a tool, nothing more. Brachium attempts to guide Blake to use his powers to reinforce the Sovereigns prison rather than to free them, because that should limit their powers enough to save his love. Blake refuses to do so, and instead forms his own plan.
Blake wakes both himself and "Sunshine", and sends them away, planning to have their memories wiped like Elliott's were and then have them released. He then enters the room with the Shade and allows it to steal his lifeforce, sending himself into Death so that he might commune with the Drove directly.
D'Deridahn, the Gravitic Sovereign, has become the commanding voice of the amalgamation of Sovereigns that compose the Drove. He speaks directly to Blake, informing him that he was specifically needed because he was a Seer, and the fragment of Sovereignty that every Seer carries makes them a viable vessel to carry a piece of D'Deridahn to Terra. Blake attempts to negotiate, but his efforts fail, and he is left with the decision to become D'Deridahn's vessel, or die. He chooses the former.
Blake is returned to life, now harboring a fragment of D'Deridahn within him, who speaks in his mind. When Blake resists his orders, D'Deridahn forces Blake to hurt himself to show that he has no authority over what happens going forward. Blake manages to convince D'Deridahn to let him have at least some input though, and he makes the decision to free the four Shades in CloseKnit's containment in order to cause chaos that will cover their escape. The Department storms CloseKnit at the same time, cutting the power to the building. In the chaos, "Sunshine" escapes into the care of the Department, guided by Brachium. D'Deridahn teaches Blake transposition magic in order to facilitate their own escape.
Alone in Death, Brachium calls out to Min'Ara, begging her for one last grace, to return him to Terra so that he can finish this quest on his own and free "Sunshine" and Elliott from the burden of it. Against all odds, Min'Ara answers, creating the portal for him to do so. Elliott and "Sunshine" are reunited and return home with Aaron. Brachium is there, and after a discussion, it becomes clear that he plans to modify their memories so that all of them can be "free" of this, now that he is back in the living world and can handle it himself. Meanwhile, Blake's transposition leads him to his friend, who he finally confesses everything to; his obsessive love for them, his deals with CloseKnit and now with D'Deridahn. D'Deridahn considers the effort to explain in words to be inefficient, so he reaches into their mind and gives them Blake's memories, so that they can see what he has done, and what he will become. They confess their own feelings for Blake in return, and D'Deridahn, though unamused, concedes that Blake can keep his "pet" as long as they are useful. Elliott, "Sunshine", Aaron, and "Smartass" play a game of cards, their memories of all the struggles erased. Brachium observes them from a distance, pleased with his work. Scorpius appears and tells Brachium that he plans to help him in his efforts to find and defeat Blake/D'Deridahn, after all he did to him.
Two days after the Inversion resolution, "Freelancer" goes to see Lasko. He is packing up his office, having been awarded a promotion to the administrative board in the wake of the disaster. He is evasive when questioned about it, insisting that it doesn't matter given what everyone else went through. "Freelancer" presses him for more, and Lasko admits that he feels undeserving of the role, feeling that he was only offered it because of political machinations and posturing by D.A.M.N. in light of their dispute with D.U.M.P. over the handling of the disaster. Lasko angrily tells them to stop comforting him, saying that they need and deserve the comfort, not him. They reassure him regardless, and he thanks them for their concern. They discuss the grief counseling options that D.U.M.P. and D.A.M.N. have coordinated to provide. He affirms that he is there to help them as well, in any way that he can. Three days after the Inversion resolution, "Freelancer" meets up with Damien. Damien tells them that he is fine, having recovered from his injuries, and he has begun training again in earnest. "Freelancer" rightly expresses concern that he is overworking himself, which Damien rebukes. They push the issue, and Damien snaps, insisting that "Freelancer" has no right to tell him how to handle his grief. He breaks down, admitting that he is haunted by what he faced that night, by feelings of inadequacy, shame, and guilt, and that he doesn't know how to get back to a normal life after the things he has seen and suffered. He feels isolated even from Huxley, who he feels he owes his life to. "Freelancer" comforts him and he thanks them, and he comforts them in turn, refuting their claims that what they went through is somehow less significant than what he has faced. He adamantly tells them that pain is not a competition, and that their grief is equally important. He is scheduled to begin counseling the next day.
D.U.M.P. holds a ceremony to give Department Commendation medals to each member of the security team, and to give David the Directorial Medal of Valor, making him the first non-Department personnel in history to be awarded it.
Three days after the Inversion resolution, David and "Angel" return home from the D.U.M.P. ceremony. David has been asked to speak at the memorial scheduled for the coming week, but he has yet to decide if he will do so. Opinions of him and the Pack are mixed but generally supportive, aided by the stories coming from the survivors that were actually there to see their heroism in person. The Department has chosen to laud the security team as heroes, but that is a mixed bag in and of itself, given the disastrous public opinion of the Department in the wake of the tragedy. David believes adamantly that the Department must have considered pinning the disaster on him and the pack, but that still would have made them look complicit for having agreed to keep the Ward up so long, so instead D.U.M.P. went the other way and lifted them as heroes with full Departmental support in a bid to get in on the goodwill. David refuses to be a mouthpiece for them. While he thinks the world is better in general for having the structure the Department provides, especially in the wake of a disaster like this where paranoia is at an all-time high, he refuses to be a PR tool for them. Though many members of the Pack sustained severe injury, they all survived, which is a further source of guilt for David. He remains tormented by the memories of what happened that night and the decisions he made, and feels like he's trapped in a loop that he can't escape and he blames himself for every life lost. "Angel" provides all the support that they can, and the two of them resolve to keep hanging on by leaning on each other.
Four days after the Inversion resolution, Asher and "Baaabe" are struggling to maintain some shred of optimism in the face of the disaster. Asher's injuries, though healed, were very severe and have left him with scars on his chest which he tries to ignore but that weigh on him heavily. Milo sends Asher a video that is circulating of an ad put out by CloseKnit in the wake of the disaster. Asher is disgusted about it and snaps, furious that CloseKnit thinks they know what was the right course of action when no one who wasn't there can say that. He confesses that he couldn't have made the decision that David made in the control booth that night. He froze when presented with the scene, and wouldn't have been able to make a decision in time if David hadn't been there to make the choice. Asher fears what might happen if a situation comes where he is the one to have to make a choice like that. All his latent fears about his inadequacy have returned at their worst, now combining with his survivor guilt to leave him utterly shaken. He recounts to "Baaabe" what it was like that night after he was too wounded to fight and was taken to the underground. No one down there believed they would survive the night, and he watched powerless as families said goodbye to one another, unable to reassure them because he thought they were right. "Baaabe" comforts him.
Five days after the Inversion resolution, "Freelancer" meets up with Huxley, who has returned home from visiting his moms after the disaster. They talk about Xavier and how much Huxley misses his friend, but that he wants to live a life that honors his sacrifice. Huxley doesn't blame Gavin for Xavier's death, and wants to assure the Incubus that he shouldn't blame himself either. He and "Freelancer" discuss their upcoming grief counseling sessions and their support for one another. Later that evening, Gavin returns home after having to debrief the Chorus on the events of the Inversion. As the only demon that was present inside the Ward, they wanted his interpretation of events. Gavin states that while humanity and d[a]emonkind often have a rocky relationship, the Chorus was genuinely horrified to hear and experience the events of that evening through Gavin's memories, mourning the loss of life. Gavin resolves to call Huxley that evening.
Six days after the Inversion resolution, "Sweetheart" has attained the Department's private report on the events of the night. They review it with Milo, and in doing so learn that the Department's restraint was primarily motivated by the ongoing attacks and containment breaks led by daemons against their facilities, which D.U.M.P. fears may be acting at the will of the Chorus. D.U.M.P. feared (and continues to fear) that the Chorus had a hand in the Inversion itself, and that asking for aid would be playing directly into their hands and would have made the situation far worse. Though the context for their actions is interesting, Milo still finds it hard to believe that the Chorus would ever make such a move against humanity, even if they are responsible for the containment breaches. Milo instead suspects CloseKnit was involved. He remains concerned about his inability to shift into his wolf form, but believes it is just a matter of time before it returns.
Nine days after the Inversion resolution, Sam returns home from a drive to clear his head to find "Darlin" waiting on his porch. He gives them a key to his house and they discuss the Inversion and the feelings that it has brought on. Sam confesses that while he was able to compartmentalize his feelings in the moment in order to be the anchor for everyone else, now that the disaster is over, the emotions from that night are coming in and threatening to overwhelm him. "Darlin" offers their support and they comfort each other. "Darlin" tells Sam they consider him their mate. He is honored by the admission and confesses his love for them.
"Lovely" awakens mid-sleep with feelings of extreme hunger. Vincent helps them through their first feeding, giving them bloodbags to drain. Vincent finally explains why he was Invoked for the first time, recounting the story of how his hatred of having been turned against his will drove him to refuse to feed, and how William eventually Invoked him to force him to sustain himself. "Lovely" asks if Vincent still hates William, but Vincent doesn't feel that way anymore. He has hated him in the past, but he considers William family now, and loves him like family. He waited ten years to take William's name, but now he wears the Solaire name with pride. Vincent assures "Lovely" that the House of Solaire is all behind them as well, and that they have support.
Avior and "Starlight" attempt to regroup after the events of the Inversion. The chaos of it has stilted any kind of meaningful response to their concerns about the Meridian from the Chorus. Avior and "Starlight" decide to take their concerns to the Department, hoping for a better response.
Avior is tormented by auditory hallucinations that he can't explain, and they have escalated to immense physical pain as well. Avior can't explain what is happening, and his condition deteriorates extremely rapidly.
Avior attempts to Rift to Circinus to seek help, but his efforts fail. As his pain reaches a crescendo, a new being tears itself out of the fabric of his being: Hush, now made manifest. Hush attempts to explain his reason for existing, but struggles to do so and Avior's pain and confusion causes him to lash out. Hush disappears, telling Avior not to follow him. Avior is left even more confused than before.
After tearing himself free of Avior, Hush is apprehended by Aria authorities, the Articulates.
Feb 2022
Hush has allowed the Articulates to keep him contained for a while, but upon realizing that they have no intention of helping with his purpose, he wages a one-man war to burn a path back to Terra, leaving dozens of demons dead in his wake. All of their combined efforts are finally enough to slow him down, but only one Demon, Reticuli, remains by the time "Doc" comes upon the site of their conflict. With no context for what is going on, "Doc" chooses to help Hush, believing him to be the victim of the encounter. Hush channels his powers through "Doc" to obliterate Reticuli. "Doc" awakens afterward in their own apartment, and Hush attempts to understand why he is so intrigued by "Doc". He ultimately decides to leave without removing their memories of him.
Brachium ponders on his past, his connection with "Sunshine" and Elliott, and his uncertain future.
Hush is waiting in "Doc"s apartment for them. His naivety and different morality become quickly obvious, but "Doc" finds themselves just as fascinated by Hush as he is by them.
Quinn sends two Vampires after "Darlin" and Sam on their first Valentine's Day together, and the couple summarily defeats them both, ashing them.
Just Casually Surviving a Vampire Attack With Your Valentine
Ollie and his partner cuddle and spend time relaxing together.
Normae, another Articulate, tries to question "Doc" about their association with Hush. Hush appears and issues his one warning, which Normae disregards. Hush destroys him without a second thought. Hush's fascination with "Doc" has continued, and he has attempted to teach himself skills that would benefit "Doc", which is odd, given that that is not part of his purpose. He finally explains what he is to them: the silence in the Spellsong, given shape by E'Laetum and Min'Ara, for the purpose of saving the Meridian.
As part of their efforts to provide aid in the wake of the disaster, the Department has approved volunteer, confidential in-office support sessions with volunteer helpers. Camelopardalis is one of these volunteers, and offers support to a fellow Department employee who comes to see him. He mentions his concerns about Regulus having escaped.
Ollie's partner works late into the night, and Ollie convinces them to come back to bed. He reassures them that the workload being forced upon them is unfair, and gives them the confidence to say so.
Mar 2022
Vega and "Warden" arrive in Dahlia and go to the CloseKnit headquarters there, only to find them abandoned in the wake of the raid to save "Sunshine". They explore briefly before they are confronted by Hush, who struggles to convey his intentions. Vega's patience wears thin, and he moves against Hush, who destroys him effortlessly. Hush tells "Warden" that they should leave, and they run.
Hush rushes back to "Doc", consumed by inner conflict over the encounter with Vega. He breaks down as the competing logic of his purpose and his own will clash, as he feels that destroying Vega was the wrong decision. He reiterates that he recognizes and knows Vega, not from his own memories but from the parts of him that are from E'Laetum and Min'Ara and knew Vega in the Cacophony. "Doc"'s support helps calm Hush enough to come to the conclusion that he should try to restore Vega, something that might be possible if he hurries. He and "Doc" return to the CloseKnit headquarters to do so.
Hush uses his immense power to draw whatever parts of Vega's magic remain in the area that haven't yet dissipated. The effort works, but only in part: Vega is reformed, but whole swathes of his memories are missing, a fact that Vega is aware of and deeply upset about. Unsure of how to proceed, Hush offers to take Vega to "Warden", hoping that they can better explain the situation for him.
Hush takes Vega to "Warden", who is terrified upon seeing that Vega is somehow restored. Vega manages to explain the situation to them, at least in part, and asks them for whatever information they can give him in his efforts to feel like himself again.
While "Warden" and Vega reconnect, Hush returns to "Doc"s home. They discuss his origins, his purpose, and the confusion that he has been feeling as his emergent personality and his innate goals continue to clash.
Vega and "Warden" confront Hush and "Doc". Vega accuses Hush of being short sighted, underestimating CloseKnit and their connection to the Sovereigns, and attempting to sway him to remain after his mission of giving a Sovereign to the Meridian is completed, so that he can use his immense power to destroy CloseKnit once and for all and reinforce the Drove's prison. Hush is deeply conflicted by the points Vega makes, weighing them against what he has imagined his purpose to be, but which seems so much less clear now. Vega and "Warden" leave them alone to discuss it.
Hush and "Doc" discuss what to do. Hush teeters close to another breakdown as he struggles to reconcile his purpose and his own desires. He ultimately chooses to go beyond his original goals, for the sake of "Doc" and their future, choosing them over the purpose he was given.
"Angel" returns home from a difficult day at work, but tries to hide their struggles from David. He notices and calls them out on it, but they argue that with everything he's dealing with in the wake of the Inversion disaster, it feels selfish for them to ask for support over what they view as a lesser problem. David disagrees and tells them adamantly that he is there to help them no matter what struggles he's going through as well. Pain isn't a competition, and they are partners that support one another. They comfort one another. "Angel" asks about the state of the Pack. Amanda has announced that she is moving back to South Dakota, where her dad's family lives. She asked Christian to move with her, but he refused, not wanting to leave Dahlia, and they broke up as a result. Brooks has been offered a job and chosen to pursue it instead of working security anymore. Linda is leaving the team as well. Miguel is staying on, but will no longer be doing active work, instead taking over the administrative side of things and staying off the field.
Comforted After a Hard Day at Work by Your Alpha Werewolf Boyfriend
"Baaabe" finds Asher playing familiar video games in the middle of the night. He confesses that he is unable to sleep, struggling with insomnia as a result of his experiences during Inversion. The silence wears away at him. His therapists have tried to remind him that it will take time for things to feel normal again, but he is frustrated at the hold these memories still have on him and the way they impact his life. He doesn't expect it to get better overnight, but it doesn't even seem to be getting marginally better, and he's finding it harder and harder to keep fighting when he can't get even one night of peace so that he can remember what it feels like. "Baaabe" comforts him and helps him finally get to sleep, filling the silence per his request.
The D.A.M.N. friends hang out as a group for the first time since the disaster. Gavin isn't able to attend, having a meeting with his friend Crux to arrange counseling for what he went through, but he calls Huxley to touch base with him and to promise that he will gladly be at the next game night. Damien and Lasko arrive and Damien reveals that something is wrong with Lasko, but he's not sure what, with the Air Elemental actively dodging any questions regarding his new position or the Academy in general. Damien is worried about him. They eventually confront him, and Lasko admits that he has been avoiding talking about anything that he fears could bring back memories of that evening for them, believing that what they went through was much worse than his own struggles that night. His friends all reassure him that that isn't the case, that there is no point in trying to rank their grief, and that they all support one another. The night continues much better after that, the tension relieved.
Later that night, Gavin returns home and finds "Freelancer" struggling. They break down in his arms, finally letting themself feel the depth of their emotions in regard to the disaster. Gavin comforts and reassures them. He also explains the gravity of what they did by staying with him that night; they literally saved his life, being the only thing that gave him the strength to hold on when the strength of the victims' emotional energy was starting to literally unravel him. He owes them his life.
Apr 2022
Morgan Kyne, a Seer Obscura, meets with the only other known Seer Obscura in existence, at their request. They had previously hidden their powers from the world, pretending instead to be an Illusory, but in the wake of the Inversion disaster, they have revealed themselves so that they can try to get answers. They want to know how it is possible that they didn't see the Inversion coming, and so weren't able to help prevent it. Morgan explains the limits of Sight, noting that it cannot be used to See things on other planes of existence, including Aria and Death. Sight is not a matter of predestination, but is rather an incredibly advanced form of probability, with Seers able to account for all variables on their plane to determine what is the most likely future. But since they cannot See the variables on other planes, those forces and actions don't factor into their probabilities. The Inversion came from Death, so there was no way to predict it. He offers to aid this new Seer in whatever way he can, if they want his help.
D.U.M.P. releases an informative video about Vampirism.
Guy and his partner, "Honey", enjoy a night in together.
Unwinding After a Long Day with Your Chaotic Pizza Guy Boyfriend
Regulus issues a test to his victim to see if they have truly become loyal to him yet. They fail.
May 2022
Guy graduates college with a degree in Creative Writing. He continues working at Max's Rustic Pizza while looking for an opportunity to better utilize his degree.
Huxley graduates from D.A.M.N. with his Earth Elemental Command certification.
Five months after Inversion, the world has returned to enough of a state of normalcy that Caelum can safely visit "Freelancer" again. He is overjoyed to see that they were able to come back from the tragedy on their own with their support system, and is grateful for that change in their life. He also is grateful for the perspective that the time away has granted him, having learned a lot about his prior lack of a sense of self outside of his charges and his duty to them.
"Honey" is trying to nap after having trouble falling asleep the night prior. Guy attempts to help as only he can, with questionable results.
Five months after he stepped into the Warding magic to disrupt it, Milo still isn't able to shift into his wolf form. The Healers have few answers for him, believing that if the ability returns, it will just be a matter of time. Milo finally breaks down under the strain after a series of failed attempts to shift. "Sweetheart" tries to reassure him, but Milo is inconsolable, feeling that a fundamental part of himself is missing. While he wouldn't change his decision, and firmly believes it was worth it to have saved the lives that he did, he doesn't want the magic to be gone and doesn't know what to do anymore, feeling utterly hopeless and like a stranger in his own body. "Sweetheart" bridges with him, helping him to focus on the sensation of his magic, and it finally works. He shifts, holding it for only a few seconds so as to not overwork his core. He shifts back and collapses into sobs of relief in "Sweetheart"'s arms.
David organizes a trip for early the next month for the Shaw Pack and their guests to go back up to the cabins to unwind and relax.
Jun 2022
The Pack prepares to leave for the trip. Asher is running late. David pulls Milo aside and asks if the shifting succeeded, and Milo excitedly tells him it did. David reassures him that he's incredibly happy for him, and repeats to him again that even if he wouldn't have been able to, he would still absolutely have been himself, and a valued member of the Pack family. David expresses how frustrated he is that the world can't know how much Milo risked to save everyone. Milo assures him that it doesn't matter, that that's not why he did it, and while David knows that to be the case, he also wants Milo to know that he is one of the bravest men David has ever known. He apologizes for the distance that formed between them when Gabe died and tells him how much he values their friendship. Milo is overwhelmed with emotion and thanks him.
David and "Angel" enjoy some private time in a cove during their trip to the lake.
Getting Steamy with Your Alpha Wolf Boyfriend Under the Summer Sun
Asher pulls a muscle in his leg on the trip, and though Marie successfully heals him, he is down for the count for most of a day. "Baaabe" spends it with him, making sure he still gets to enjoy that portion of his vacation.
On the last night of the Pack's trip, they all prepare to meet up for a fancy dinner. Milo struggles to find his dress socks and finds out that "Sweetheart" has purposely hidden them to tease him. They steal some time together before the dinner.
Heating Up in the Bedroom With Your Feisty Werewolf Boyfriend
Huxley is scouted by the Department Landwork Commission and is offered a job, which he accepts.
Damien and Huxley spend the day together, playing a game of beach volleyball. The playful tension between them is palpable. When they finish the game, they go back to Huxley's house, something clearly weighing heavily on Damien's mind. He finally breaks and confesses his feelings for Huxley, feelings that he's been harboring for almost a year now. Huxley reciprocates his feelings, and they start a relationship, choosing to keep it private for the time being.
Gavin takes "Freelancer" to the 7/11 where they met and they get Slurpies. They return to their place and things take a sensual turn when "Freelancer" tries to teach Gavin how to play a new video game.
Having both returned home from the Pack trip, Sam takes "Darlin" up to SkySide for a continuation of their vacation. He is there on business to make sure the property is prepared for the Monarchal Summit, but once that's resolved, they have the rest of the time to themselves in the spacious estate. They enjoy a night in the hot tub together.
Jul 2022
Geordi and "Cutie" attend a pool party. Geordi is nervous about potential judgment from the other partygoers, and "Cutie" tries to reassure him that they aren't thinking of what the two of them are doing. Geordi tries to explain that he understands that they're trying to be supportive by doing that, but that that is missing the point of what he's trying to tell them. This explanation doesn't properly get across though, and they shift gears to enjoying themselves at the party, temporarily sidestepping the conflict.
Vincent takes "Lovely" to a place that is special to him, one on the outskirts of town that looks down over Dahlia and Wonderworld. They look out over the city, reminisce, and enjoy each other's company.
Geordi had a frustrating day at work. "Cutie" arrives home and notices, and asks to be let in his mind to hear his thoughts on it. Geordi asks for privacy until he can get a bit more settled with the feelings, but "Cutie" pushes him. Geordi tries to explain his reasoning again, but when that fails and they continue to push, he snaps at them, asking why he can't have literally just the half hour of privacy that he is asking for. They argue about it. Geordi feels its deeply invalidating to be told that him wanting to consider his words carefully means they're "fake" rather than the "true" unfiltered off the cuff version of his thoughts. Geordi asks for their trust, and they promise he has it, but the conversation still ends on unsteady terms. They enter his mind without his permission or knowledge again as they lay together in bed afterward.
The next morning, "Cutie" admits that they entered his thoughts without permission again last night. Geordi appreciates them having told him, but finally has to draw the line, facing too many parallels to a previous abusive relationship he was in. He recognizes and respects that they are trying and he believes it when they say they're sorry, but that isn't enough anymore given that their actions never change. He does not completely break off ties with them, but states that he needs time away from them and he can't consider being with them again until they seek help for the underlying issues that have led them to this point. He knows that they're hurting, and that their actions are coming from a place of hurt, and more than anything, he wants them to feel better again. He leaves.
"Lovely" slips while out on a hike and sustains some injuries. Vincent uses his healing magic to help them, and they discuss the powers and limitations of being a newborn Vampire.
Gregory Keaton, Alpha of the Keaton Pack and old friend of Gabe, reaches out to David. They meet up, and Gregory tells David that Quinn has been spotted in Ferris, north of Dahlia. Ansel, a member of the Keaton Pack, is investigating Quinn and trying to hunt him down after another series of attacks are attributed to him. David thanks Gregory for the information and alerts "Darlin" and the rest of the pack about the situation.
Aug 2022
"Darlin" plans to seek out Quinn again to end him once and for all. Sam manages to get them to rethink the situation and hold off. Both of them want revenge against Quinn for the harm he has caused to people they each care about, but Sam rightfully suggests that they let D.U.M.P. try to apprehend him. But he makes a promise to "Darlin" that if the Department fails and he continues to hurt other people, he and "Darlin" will hunt him down together.
Milo wakes up in the middle of the night to find that "Sweetheart" can't sleep. He helps them relax and get back to sleep.
Asher, Milo, "Baaabe", and "Sweetheart" planned to go out on a double date, but Milo gets sick and they aren't able to. Asher is concerned about the Quinn situation, so they choose to have a date night in instead. They still make a fun night of it.
Damien and Huxley decide to come out about their relationship to their friends. The group gets together for a game night. While exchanging pleasantries, Gavin goes into the kitchen to get the snacks, and Damien purposefully follows him in and tells him privately that he knows Gavin must already be aware of his and Huxley's feelings for one another. Gavin plays coy briefly, but at Damien's seriousness, he cuts the act and admits that he has been able to sense it, yes, but that he hasn't confirmed it to anyone else because they aren't his feelings to tell. They return to the others, and after some awkward exchanges, they reveal their relationship. The group is supportive and happy for them, and the game night continues without incident.
David buys a ring, planning to propose to "Angel", though he's unsure when exactly to do so.
Sep 2022
David returns home from a security gig to find "Angel" asleep on the couch in one of his hoodies. He wakes them up and they joke around about it. It is the fifth anniversary of Gabe's passing, but it doesn't hurt so much this year. David feels he's honoring his father's memory by spending the day happy, having put in good work and now relaxing with his mate.
Camelopardalis is visited again by his fellow Department employee. Things in their life have gotten much better, and they're confused at the fact that that is somehow now also a source of anxiety, because they fear when those good times will end. He offers them reassurance and solace.
Sam tries with questionable success to master Super Smash Brothers with "Darlin'"'s help, having been asked to play it by the Shaw Pack.
Milo tries the game Mortuary Assistant and absolutely hates it.
Oct 2022
"Angel" gets sick, but continues to try to work around the house. David stops them, takes them back to bed, and comforts them.
Alpha Werewolf Boyfriend Takes Care of You While You're Sick
Sam and "Darlin'" spend a night in watching scary movies.
Cuddling Up and Watching Scary Movies With Your Vampire Mate
Ollie and his partner spend some time relaxing together. Ollie is recovering from being sick, and the aftereffects of his antibiotics are bothering him, but his partner helps take his mind off it.
Nov 2022
Milo and "Sweetheart" put in an offer on a house in Dahlia, and it is accepted, beginning the process of finalizing the purchase.
"Honey" catches Guy wearing their hoodie and chaos ensues.
Milo and "Sweetheart" get dressed up for a night out.
Gavin and "Freelancer" watch a storm roll into Dahlia and reflect on the process of a place becoming a home.
Dec 2022
Sam and "Darlin" organize a trip back up to "SkySide" ahead of the Solstice so they can have some time to unwind as just the two of them. Sam reflects on the unlikely turn of events that has led to him working in this field for William, and reminisces about his past.
Asher buys a ring, planning to propose to "Baaabe", though he's unsure when to do so.
"Honey" attempts to get Guy's help in decorating their place for the holidays. It goes as well as expected.
Holiday Decorating With Your Boyfriend But He's a Chaotic Mess
Milo and "Sweetheart" finally close on the house. Milo reflects on the events that have led them here and the way he grew up, and they celebrate the new purchase and new step in their lives.
The Moonbound Solstice arrives, and while it grants power to those who are Moonbound, it also severely hampers those who are Sunbound. This year is the first time Huxley and Damien have spent it together, and as a Sunbound, Damien is struggling. Memories from the Inversion combine with the physical discomfort of the Solstice to make it a very difficult day. Huxley provides comfort and reassurance.
The Pack throws their annual Solstice party at David and "Angel"'s home, with all their family and friends in attendance, including Sam, Vincent, and "Lovely".
The night of the Solstice, after the party-goers have left, David proposes to "Angel". They accept, and the two of them gleefully reminisce and celebrate.
Huxley takes Damien on a trip back to his hometown to meet his moms. It goes very well, and the easy comfort in their family inspires Damien to be honest with his own mom about his relationship with Huxley, which he has kept secret thus far, fearing her reaction. Huxley asks Damien to move in with him, and Damien agrees.
Vincent and "Lovely" spend New Year's Eve, "Lovely"'s deathday, at SkySide where they celebrate new beginnings.
2023
Jan 2023
Asher and "Baaabe" bake sugar cookies and decorate them together.
Damien comes out to his mother. She is not very supportive.
Ollie's partner's family tries to guilt them for not having spent the holidays with them, despite their understandable reasons for skipping. Ollie reassures them that their family's actions and feelings are not their responsibility, and that they were completely justified in their decision.
"Freelancer" goes to visit Damien at his apartment the last day he has it. They reflect on the two years that have passed, and Damien's reasons for moving in with Huxley. Damien also reveals that he recently told his mom about his relationship with Huxley and her response was not very supportive, but he has resolved to live his life the way he wants.
Huxley and "Freelancer" meet up and play Fall Guys. They talk about Huxley and Damien's trip, the recent move, and Huxley's continuing career with the Department Landwork Commission.
Vincent and "Lovely" relax together. Vincent tells them the story of his first Monarchal Summit, and they decide to go to this year's.
"Seer Obscura" meets up with Morgan again, having more questions. They seek better control of their abilities, and Morgan explains the benefits and limitations of Sight in more detail and offers to help train them, which they agree to.
"Darlin"'s apartment lease is nearly up. Sam offers for them to move in with him. They agree.
Feb 2023
Milo and "Sweetheart" talk about their relationship, brought on by the announcement of David and "Angel"s proposal. They reaffirm that neither of them are interested in traditional marriage, but that they are committed to one another for life.
"Baaabe" proposes to Asher. He accepts, and reveals that he had planned to propose to them soon as well, having already bought the ring. They celebrate.
Damien and Huxley spend their first Valentine's Day together, with Huxley making a big show of it as a surprise, not realizing that Damien hates the holiday. The miscommunication is soon resolved though, and they ultimately have a wonderful day together.
"Darlin" finishes moving in with Sam. They discuss the importance of this step and relax together after the hard work of moving day.
Guy gets sick. "Honey" attempts to keep him in bed so that he will get adequate rest, with questionable success. Guy admits to his frustration at feeling unproductive and at the fact that he wasn't able to attend the pitch meeting he was invited to, and "Honey" comforts him.
Mar 2023
David and “Angel” continue to work through plans for their double wedding with Asher and “Baaabe”, organizing a dinner where the four of them can ask Milo to officiate the wedding. Asher calls to check in, and they all banter. David and “Angel” reflect on their excitement for the coming event.
Sam and “Darlin” enjoy a cuddly morning in bed. Asher calls and asks “Darlin” to come play Don’t Starve Together, which they have been playing together for a while now. They agree. While playing, Asher asks “Darlin” what caused them to stay in Dahlia with the rest of the Pack after their parents moved back to Washington, and the two of them connect over their relationship to their blood families and to the Pack. Asher thanks “Darlin” for being a source of support during the tumultuous times following his appointment to the role of Pack Beta.
Apr 2023
Vincent and “Lovely” go out on a dinner date. They each talk about how they’re generally more comfortable with things that are less fancy, and make plans to go get drive thru ice cream on the way home. These plans are ultimately overridden by their desire to instead hurry home for ‘private time’.
“Freelancer” arrives home to find Gavin studying for his D.A.M.N. 101 exam half-heartedly. They attempt to encourage him to focus on his studies, with questionable, but enjoyable, results.
One of Lasko’s coworkers, a Water Elemental, comes to visit him in his office. They talk at length, and at the end of the conversation they ask if Lasko would be interested in going on a date with them at some point soon. He happily agrees and gives them his number.
“Freelancer”, Gavin, Damien, and Huxley plan to see a movie and go to dinner. Huxley and “Freelancer” run late, and while waiting for them, Damien and Gavin talk. Gavin eventually reveals that his efforts to complete his full certification exemption exam have been delayed due to discriminatory action from the exam proctor. Damien rallies behind him with support. They each come out of the conversation with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the other.
Lasko is asked out on a date by his Water Elemental coworker. Despite initial anxiety, he agrees. The dinner portion of the date goes badly, but their walk afterwards vastly improves the night, and the date ends on a high note.
Asher organizes a Super Smash Brothers Tournament with himself, “Baaabe”, David, “Angel”, Milo, “Sweetheart”, Sam, and “Darlin” all participating. Chaos ensues.
Ollie and his partner spend a relaxed evening on the couch, cuddling and watching favorite movies.
May 2023
Asher and Milo go on a hike, which ends with Asher effectively riding Milo down the mountain after they slip. Milo recounts the story to "Sweetheart" while they heal the injuries. They reminisce on the last time Sweetheart healed him, after the Shade hunt.
A Latent human is walking through a park at night in Ferris with their sister when they are attacked by Quinn. Anton, a Wolf-Shifter Investigator that was tailing him, intercepts, saving both their lives. Quinn manages to escape. The Latent is consumed by guilt over their inability to fight back against Quinn, due to their Latency making their magical powers inaccesible. They reach out to the Department for options on how to make their powers manifest. They are put in contact with James, a Telepath and Department Coordinator, who has to tell them the disappointing news: that the Department has made no strides in helping people break their Latency, and that there are no known advisable paths forward.
Ansel, a member of the Keaton Pack and an Investigator, sets a trap with fellow Department Investigators to try to lure Quinn out after his most recent attack. The trap is successful and Quinn is caught, though a Department Investigator is killed in the effort.
David is alerted that Quinn is in custody and immediately informs "Darlin". He picks them up and they go to the Department office, with Sam meeting them there. Henry, a Department official, tells them that Quinn has revealed that he had a human captive hidden away at the time of his capture and that he will only reveal their location to Sam. David counters that they have Telepaths on staff and could force the information out of him, but that is a criminal act for a number of reasons. Sam initially refuses, believing that Quinn should have to face "Darlin" and that they are owed that closure that they so desperately want, but "Darlin" convinces him that it is worth it if it means potentially saving a life in time.
Sam goes into the interrogation room with Quinn, and while he tries to keep the conversation on the missing girl's location, Quinn takes advantage of his captive audience to torment both Sam and "Darlin", who he knows is watching from behind the one-way glass.
Your Mate Confronts Your Cruel Vampire Ex (Ft. @GoodBoyAudios)
After hours of Quinn recounting his horrible stories, he finally gives Sam the location of the missing girl, and the Department immediately scrambles to find her. Sam and "Darlin" debrief afterward, consoling each other. David calls them later that night and informs them that while the girl was found, she had been dead since before Quinn was even captured. He promises that "Darlin" will get their time alone with Quinn.
The Latent chooses to find their own way to accessing their powers, and connects with Marc, a Dreamwalker with questionable credentials who promises a way to break their Latency. It involves being put into a dream where their memories wil be supressed and an artificial environment and scenario will be constructed that is designed to force an emotional breakthrough in them that will free them of their Latency. Despite the risks, the Latent chooses to pursue this option, and Marc puts them under.
In the dreamscape, the Latent is unaware of their real identity and instead believes they are the "Asset", a near-human android that has been created for unknown purposes that is struggling with their emotional subroutines. They have an obsessive interest in one of their technicians, Marcus, who in trying to unpack their obsession with him, reveals his hand in creating it. Marcus ultimately chooses not to reverse the obsession code, and enters into an illicit relationship with the "Asset".
The "Asset" continues their relationship with Marcus, and their obsessive spiral deepens, even after being confronted on it by a fellow technician, Brian. The emotional overload of the scenario finally breaks their Latency, but it turns out that they were a Latent Dreamwalker. When their powers manifest, they are still in Marc's dreamscape with their memories of the real world dampened, so they continue to truly believe they are the "Asset" even as their own powers explode and rip control of the dream away from Marc, now creating the dream themselves without even being aware of it. In the real world, Marc attempts to reenter the dream to wake them, but the Latent's powers are much stronger than his, and he can't reach them. He panics, and finds James' card on them. Seeing that James works for the Department, Marc calls him asking for help. James arrives and is horrified by what is happening, and calls the authorities. He chooses to try to reach the Latent himself using his telepathic powers in an effort to get them out of the dream safely.
Meanwhile, in the dreamscape, the "Asset"'s story takes a sharp turn, with a hostile takeover by the ETS corporation, a confrontation with Marcus, and a whole new purpose- saving Terra from the imminent collapse of the Meridian by communing with the Sovereigns. They meet reinterpretations of their real life memories of Anton and James, and imagine entire subplots of those "characters" as the dream continues to spiral wildly out of control. In the real world, James finally manages to break through to them, and attempts to explain the situation to them.
The "Asset"'s memories slowly return to them as they realize the truth of James' words. Now remembering the whole story, they are able to successfully awaken themselves, and return to the real world as a Dreamwalker. James pledges to help them in any way he can, and Marcus is turned over to the authorities for his reckless practices.
"Darlin" gets their chance to face Quinn, under the condition that he survives to face sentencing by the Vampire Council. They prove that his hold over them has finally broken.
Jun 2023
David arranges a much-needed getaway for the Pack in the wake of the Quinn resolution.
"Angel" gets up to their usual shenanigans while David attempts to use the hotel workout room.
Vincent and "Lovely" plan to go to a fancy dinner, but on the way, realize that it isn't either of their style. Instead they stop at a 7/11 and buy junk food and Slurpees and enjoy each other's company as it rains.
While at Damien and Huxley's for a summer BBQ party, Gavin and "Freelancer" make their own entertainment out by the pool.
Things start to heat up between Lasko and "Dear", but Lasko asks to slow it down a little bit in favor of taking their time with the whole experience, which "Dear" is happy to oblige.
Your Nervous Submissive Boyfriend Asks to Slow Things Down a Little
While on vacation, Asher and "Baaabe" go on a scenic drive that takes a spicy turn once they reach their destination.
Guy and "Honey" attend a concert together, and keep the energy up upon returning home.
Getting Hot After the Concert With Your Chaotic Switch Boyfriend
While on their getaway vacation, the Pack ends up at a club where they dance and unwind. Sam is convinced to dance despite his apprehensions, and the night takes a private turn for the two of them.
Jul 2023
Milo and "Sweetheart" return home from the Pack's summer trip, taking some time to unwind before they unpack.
"Honey" attempts to teach Guy Canasta, with mixed results.
Trying to Get Your Chaotic Boyfriend to Focus for Even Just One Minute
Aug 2023
While "Freelancer" sleeps, Gavin details again why they are such a precious part of his life.
"Dear" reveals that they have a fear of thunderstorms while one rages outside. Lasko steps up to comfort them.
Your Submissive Boyfriend Steps Up To Comfort You During a Storm
Ollie reads a book while his partner rests beside him.
Sep 2023
Despite it barely being September, Asher insists it is the perfect time to start decorating for Halloween.
Vincent and "Lovely" enjoy some lighthearted time together before a meeting with William looms.
Your Boyfriend's a Flirty Vampire Prince and ALSO a Cheesy Dork
Sam and "Darlin" share a comfortable, easy morning in together. Sam tells "Darlin" that there's a rumor that the Shaw Pack will be invited to the impending Summit as honored guests, and also accidently lets slip that he holds the official title of "Duke" within the House of Solaire, much to "Darlin"'s delight.
A Cuddly Morning With Your Vampire Mate (uninterrupted this time, Asher)
David and "Angel" spend some time together in the woods outside of Dahlia
Geordi and "Cutie" meet up and discuss where they are at and how they are feeling in the wake of the separation.
Vincent's meeting with William was a stress-inducing one; William has asked that Vincent lead the Monarchal Summit this year, and is being very guarded with giving anymore details beyond that. Vincent feels left out of the loop and unsupported by his Maker, but takes comfort in his relationship with "Lovely". Just as he is starting to feel better, Sam calls, dropping the bombshell that Porter is back in town and will be attending the Summit as well.
Oct 2023
Guy attempts to use his negotation skills to keep "Honey" in bed a little longer.
Porter Solaire arrives back in Dahlia in preparation for the Summit, at William's order. On his first night back in town, he meets "Treasure", an unempowered human. They strike up a connection, he feeds on them, and they spend the night together.
"Freelancer" and Gavin pick out Halloween costumes together, and as expected, chaos ensues.
"Angel" and David watch Alien together, much to David's amusement.
Sam orchestrates a meeting at his house between Vincent and Porter, unbeknownst to both of them. Vincent and Porter immediately launch into an argument, with Sam playing peacemaker as best he can. Porter learns that his longheld belief that Vincent asked to be Turned by William is untrue, and that it was actually a deeply traumatic event for him that he did not consent to. Porter apologizes, and they reach a tenuous understanding that is almost immediately strained again when Porter announces that he plans to bring "Treasure" to the Summit, before leaving.
"Honey" and Guy watch Prometheus, despite Guy's fear of horror movies.
Your Chaotic Boyfriend Hates Scary Movies (So You Make Him Watch One)
The night of the Summit arrives. Vincent is anxious and William has continued to be unavailable, compounding the problem. Porter reveals that he never intended on bringing "Treasure" at all, and only pretended to in an effort to amplify Vincent's stress further. David is pulled into negotiations with the House of Baz for a security job, and Alexis corners "Darlin" while Sam is away, taunting them about Sam's immortality and confirming that she feels no regret about having Turned him. Porter intercepts to deescalate the situation, and when Sam hears what happened, he confronts Alexis, asking that if there's any part of her that remembers caring about him, to grant him the favor of leaving "Darlin" alone. Alexis reluctantly agrees, and Sam comforts "Darlin". Porter tips off the Pack that the House of Bennet is in deep with CloseKnit and are about to have a meeting that could prove useful in a Department investigation, suggesting that "Sweetheart" eavesdrops on it. "Sweetheart" wants to take the risk, and with no time to consult David, Asher makes the decision to allow them to. Porter fakes a fight with Vincent to grant them both an alibi as Alexis appears, revealing that the King of the House of Bennet has been killed.
With the reveal that Alexander Bennet has been killed in the midst of the Summit, an investigation commences, led by Monarch Baz as the oldest reigning monarch in attendance. "Sweetheart" has made it out of the room without being detected and has their evidence of the Bennet's involvement in the Inversion, but did not see the murder. Over the course of the investigation, the adversarial relationship between Christopher and Alexander Bennet is stressed, and though the Solaires face some scrutiny as well, it is ultimately decided that Christopher is responsible and he is summarily executed on the spot. Afterward, Monarch Baz stresses to Vincent that while this charade was effective, it was messy, and that she expects better. Vincent is genuinely confused by the implication, and Monarch Baz tells him to speak to William about it. Porter offers to explain in more detail.
Porter pulls Vincent and "Lovely" aside to explain what has occurred. He admits that he is the one that killed Alexander, at William's order, and explains that the Bennet's had a hand in the Inversion. While Vincent agrees with the end results, he struggles to reconcile these revelations about William's true colors and what it means to be a Solaire with what he's known for his whole afterlife. Porter explains that William sees Vincent as a son, and has tried to shield him from the nastier parts of being a House member up until now. Vincent asks Porter about his past, and they both acknowledge that they don't know each other well and should keep that in mind when interacting.
Vincent and Sam discuss next steps in the wake of the Summit. Both feel a degree of betrayal, and hope that William will have an explanation for all that has occurred. Vincent feels that explaination is owed to all of them, but Sam doubts that William sees it the same way, believing that William reserves that for Vincent alone.
Nov 2023
Milo and "Sweetheart" discuss the aftermath of the Summit. The Department will not be officially reopening the investigation into the connections between CloseKnit and the Inversion, but "Sweetheart" has been giving permission to investigate it covertly. Milo expresses his frustration at this half-hearted effort, and the undue stress it puts on his mate.
The events of the Summit way heavy on "Baaabe"'s mind, making it difficult to sleep. Asher helps them as best he can.
Porter returns to "Treasure", but is haunted by the events of the Summit and the fallout from it, in a way that he rarely allows himself to be after a job. Though he is not particularly forthcoming with details, he appreciates "Treasure"'s concern for him and thanks them for it.
Vincent meets with William, who explains the situation as he sees it, admitting that he did purposefully keep Vincent in the dark but that it was out of care, not malice. Vincent understands his motivations but questions his methodology, stating unflinchingly that William put everyone's lives at risk and didn't even do them the service of infomring them about said risk. He asks if, now that the curtain has been pulled back, he will be expected to do more acts like that in the name of the House, like Porter does. William confirms that he would have to, yes, but that the option is there to amicably distance himself from the House if that is what Vincent would prefer. Vincent says he needs to think about it and discuss it with "Lovely". Sam then gets a chance to speak to William, but has only one question for him: if William is going to make all these decisions for all of them without their consent or knowledge, what is he going to do when one day he's wrong? William replies that he won't be. That decides for Sam in that moment that he is going to step away from the House.
Vincent and "Lovely" discuss the events of the Summit and the revelations surrounding William and the House of Solaire. Vincent has many conflicted feelings about Will, the good memories clashing against the new information and feelings. Ultimately they decide to part ways from the House of Solaire, though on amicable terms.
Sam and "Darlin" have a frank conversation about the prospect of becoming a Vampire, brought on by the events of the Summit. Sam affirms that he will support "Darlin" in any choice that they make, but is clear on the fact that despite being a Vampire, he has no intention of living forever. He did not ask to be Turned, and despite being grateful for where he is in life now, if he had the choice he would not have been Turned. In many ways, his body still feels alien to him, he lost his powers, his family, his friends, and his plans for the future all in one fell swoop. He asks that "Darlin" consider it thoroughly before making their decision.
David and "Angel" unpack the events of the Summit and the implications it has for the future of the Pack and their working relationship with the House of Solaire.
"Dear" has anxieties about meeting the rest of the D.A.M.N. crew. Lasko reassures them that the group will love them.
"Dear" attends their first Friendsgiving, fitting in well, adjusting to the chaos easily, and assuaging their first-impression anxiety.
Dec 2023
Porter and "Treasure" are interrupted by a call from Sam, who tells him about he, Vincent, and "Lovely" choosing to remove themselves from the House of Solaire. Porter is frustrated and concerned, but finds it difficult to discuss with "Treasure". They each acknowledge that they don't know one another well, and decide to change that as they commit to continuing this burgeoning relationship.
Vincent calls Porter, but he ignores it. He and "Treasure" go to the Fair instead to try to forget about their problems for a while.
Gavin meets up for lunch with "Dear", and they get to know each other as individuals outside of the group dynamic, cementing their own friendship.
Guy is sick, and "Honey" does their best to help him feel better.
Ollie comes to visit his partner in their office at their shared place of work and distracts them from their work.
2024
Jan 2024
Vincent and "Lovely" affirm that they are hopeful for the future after their decision to separate themselves from the House of Solaire.
Porter goes to visit "Treasure", but expresses that he likely won't be great company that night because he's preoccupied with his problems. "Treasure" pushes for details despite Porter repeatedly asking them to drop it, and he finally snaps. Insults and accusations fly between them, and the two separate on bad terms.
Porter appears at Vincent's home in the night, seeking advice for how things went down in the argument with "Treasure". Vincent is shocked that Porter would reach out to him of all people for help, much less for relationship advice, but he agrees to help as best he can. Porter explains what happened, and Vincent advises him on how to attempt to reconcile if that's his goal. Porter and Vincent part on fairly good terms, a surprise to them both.
Porter returns to "Treasure" and apologizes for his behavior. He attempts to explain where his reservations had been coming from, and they agree to try their relationship anew.
"Freelancer" and Gavin spend a lazy morning in bed together, negotiating about getting out of bed to get their day started.
Feb 2024
"Darlin" and Sam relax together and reflect on where they plan to take their lives now that they are separated from the House of Solaire. Sam has gotten back in touch with his old director from when he was a Healer, Gabriela. She offered him a position immediately, and he accepted. Discussing it causes "Darlin" to ask questions about Healing, and Sam takes the opportunity to teach them some hands-on by healing a sapling.
"Seer Obscura" reaches out to Morgan for help in the middle of the night, and he asks them to come over to discuss it. Morgan explains his way of visualizing time, and what the Sight means to him. He expresses a desire to get to know "Seer Obscura" as a person, not just as a fellow Seer.
Mar 2024
Ollie's partner struggles with a migraine, and Ollie offers his support. He mentions that his mom dealt with them while he was growing up, so he's familiar with the struggles of it.
Apr 2024
Asher's experiment with two Redbulls before 8AM takes a turn for the energized.
Lasko and "Dear" have a talk about the facets of personality and comforting it is to have each other who they can share all the parts of themselves with, without judgment.
May 2024
The stress leading up to the wedding has been taking its toll on David, and "Angel" resolves to help him with that.
Gavin struggles to find a goal for himself, despite having attained his full certification. Ultimately, with help from "Freelancer", he decides he'd like to create some sort of space for stewardship and mentorship for Desire Demons like himself outside of the confines of what Aria and the Chorus envision that to be.
Jun 2024
"Sweetheart" gets creative to distract Milo while he plays Destiny with Asher and David.
The day of David, "Angel", "Baaabe", and Asher's wedding arrives. Milo is nervous to officiate, but Sam reassures him. Asher and David have a heart-to-heart before the ceremony, discussing why David chose Asher as his Beta. The ceremony goes off without a hitch.
Jul 2024
On their honeymoon, Asher and "Baaabe" marvel at the new experience of going on a cruise.
Aug 2024
"Honey" sneaks up on Guy while he's showering.
Sep 2024
"Freelancer" opens their lunch to find a letter from Gavin, wherein he reiterates in detail his love for them.
Oct 2024
Lasko hosts a murder mystery party for the D.A.M.N. crew, with all the tropes and silliness to be expected from such an event.
Dec 2024
"Honey" struggles to fall asleep, and Guy tries to help, with questionable effectiveness.
Your Chaotic Gremlin BF Tries(?) To Get You To Sleep. Question Mark