End of Summer Party

[Faye Chamberlain]

Faye observed Alex's straightforward questioning with a mix of amusement and appreciation, the corners of her mouth quirking into a smile. "You can leave whenever you want, Alex. No strings attached. If you want to stay until the end, fantastic. If you decide you've had your fill, no problem. The night is yours," Faye responded with a casual wave of her hand, emphasizing the freedom of choice.

"As for the journey and energies," Faye continued, taking a moment to ponder Alex's inquiries, "it's not quite astral projection. It's more about the journey within, exploring the corners of your mind, and feeling the energies around you – the warmth of the fire, the rustle of the leaves, the beat of your heart. And by visceral, I mean a bit of both the emotions and the sensations of the physical body. It's an experience that transcends the mundane, but, well, yes, it involves altering your perception a bit."

She hesitated momentarily, a subtle flicker of uncertainty crossing her eyes before she decided to be transparent. "You got me there, Alex. It's not just about energies and mystical journeys. It's about enjoying the moment, letting loose, and indulging in a bit of substance-induced camaraderie. You're spot on – it's taking some drugs and hanging around a cozy campfire with friends."

Faye couldn't help but appreciate Alex's clarity of thought, a refreshing contrast to the often veiled conversations in their social circles. "So, feel free to join us or not. It's all about what feels right for you. And hey, if you want to spend the night, you're more than welcome. The ritual should wrap up by 2 am. Does that work for you?" 

Alex Lange

[Diana Meade]

Her attention had been on the skull more than the old friends Adam & Beck. She wouldn’t deny the circle a chance to see what they had been searching for. But when that skull slipped from Beck’s hands, time had slowed. Only for him to catch it again and Diana rewarded him with a glare announcing that it hadn’t been funny. Brahm’s later suggestion about them kissing and getting it over with already had her rolling her eyes.

” Well how about you try out your reflexes on something other than an ancient artifact.” She smiled back at him almost sweetly. But her eyes were saying a different story. Some underestimated her, and her apparent lack of a backbone. But right now, she wasn’t in the mood to take this from him lying down either.

She only looked away when she heard Bramn’s question asking about whether they should use the crystal skull in tonight’s ritual. A few thoughts went through her head, if it was left down to her, her answer was a solid no. They only just got it, they didn’t know the power it contained, what power it contained. Dark or light they just didn’t know. She didn’t want anyone to get hurt until they had a chance to research it properly.

Though Adam had gave up his summer to find it, he hadn’t done that for it to live in a glass case. A smile up at Adam and she knew the answer should be left down to the group, not just her. She mentioned her idea to the group. There were some level heads in this group, but ultimately, she would respect the final vote. Beck chose that moment to pipe up again. She counted to ten. She knew where this was coming from, and she would choose not to stoop down to his level. Rise above it… she told herself.

She waited until Alex and Faye were finished in the corner. She gave Alex a friendly smile backing up Faye’s claim, ” There is always choice here. No one will look down on you for saying no.” Diana chimed in kindly, but then she tried to bring their attention back to the skull and the impending ritual they were discussing, ” I try to be fair. I know that most of us here have waited for this, for us to have found one of the Master tools.” Diana spoke to the group, ” Ultimately Adam went to look for the tools for us to use. I don’t want them to sit in a glass case, they should be used, and they need to be used.” Diana explained. Looking across the room to the Crystal Skull still in Kori’s hands. Something about it spoke to her. An allure... one for now she would resist. ” But at this point I think its too dangerous to use. We don’t know what power lingers there, good or bad.” She spoke confidently, addressing her friends.

” But we should all respect what the group wants, including me. So, speak your mind. No judgement.” Diana put it out to the group a smile on her face. Waiting to hear from everyone else in their circle. The circle was all about balance and unity, and she would keep it.

[Morgana Shipton]

Morgana's gaze shifted between the crystal skull and the faces of her friends as the discussion about its usage unfolded. While she respected the caution in Diana's words, Morgana couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement at the possibilities the ancient artifact held. The allure of untapped power beckoned to her, and her mind began to race with ideas.

As Diana opened the floor for discussion, Morgana couldn't resist raising her hand eagerly, her eyes sparkling enthusiastically. "Oh! Oh!" she exclaimed, her energy infectious. "We can use it to keep the currents in the Atlantic Ocean from collapsing! Or, like, help stop global warming! Ohh!" Her thoughts raced ahead, envisioning myriad ways the crystal skull could be a force for positive change. "We could use it to dissolve the Great Pacific Garbage Patch!"

She leaned forward in her lounge chair, her excitement evident in her animated gestures. "Think about it, guys! We've stumbled upon something that could be a game-changer for the world. It's not just about us and our circle. This could be a chance to make a real impact, to wield magic for a greater good!" Her eyes gleamed with a passion that transcended the immediate concerns.

Morgana acknowledged the potential dangers, nodding towards Diana's cautious stance. "I get it; we need to be careful. But what if we figure out how to harness its power responsibly? We could conduct experiments, test its limits, and only then decide how to use it. This is a rare opportunity; we owe it to ourselves and the world to explore it." She paused, her gaze shifting to the crystal skull again, an unspoken curiosity lingering in her eyes. "We could have so much fun!"

[Alex Lange]

Alex looked at Faye, and then thought some more before deciding she could more or less understand. It was just a little bit of an odd conundrum, since she had somewhat allocated this night in particular for whatever would be required of her tonight. And now she was told she could leave whenever she wanted, which made her uncertain because she never really would've wanted to be here... And, so technically she should've left right on the spot, but she had allocated this time for the party, and to leave early would invalidate that.

"Okay." After a second, Alex went on. "The night is mine." She then returned the wave, emphasizing that she was mirroring to enhance the social interaction.

`As for the journey and energies`... Alex looked on, and what she heard from Faye was: Fire is warm and leaves rustle, and you have a heartbeat. And all of these things you will perceive. So, the greater meaning was lost on her, but fortunately Faye decided to just cut to the chase, be transparent with her. Honestly, that's when things went a lot smoother. The girl nodded.

"Okay I can try it. I planned for this time- I made the night for you and this event you planned. For support, so I will stay, and do things with you. You and everyone else. With the fire, and the mushrooms. Is a sleepover part of this? I didn't bring the stuff for sleepovers." Alex explained, as she was offered a place to stay for the night. "You can braid my hair I guess. Just be careful." She said, thinking about how painful it would be due to her sensitivity in that area.

Faye Chamberlain

[Faye Chamberlain]

Faye observed Alex's explanation with a perplexed look, trying to make sense of the mention of the night being made for her and the planned event. The mention of a sleepover caught her off guard, and she quickly clarified, "No, the sleepover is unofficial and on an invite-only basis. " She made mean eyes at a outsider passing by, making sure that any eavesdroppers understood. "Ugh, braiding hair sounds awful, no offense! I hate people touching my hair." Her hand went protectively to cover her dark curls, as if an imaginary hand was threatening to touch it.

Turning to meet Alex's eyes, Faye's golden gaze locked onto dark chocolate eyes, and she felt warmth. "Hey, thanks for taking the time to come out, Alex," she said sincerely, her cheeks flushing slightly at realizing her gratitude. "I appreciate it. I know this is not exactly your scene."

Shaking off the moment, Faye changed the subject with enthusiasm. "Come on, let's go back outside to the others. Adam found something from the old Coven, and Morag played keep-away with it before you came over. Do you want to see it?" She gestured for Alex to join her, eager to shift the focus to the activities with the group.

[Alex Lange]

"Okay." Alex looked on, and took those words in. The sleepover was unofficial and on an invite-only basis... So there was a sleep-over, and it was only upon invite... Did that mean she was invited? She figured she was, so she pursed her lips and nodded, steeling herself for it.

"I'll remember that you don't like it and I won't do it. And if it's appropriate, I'll let someone else know." Alex responded, filing a note in her brain about that. She really liked it when people just told her things explicitly, it made things easier to navigate. "But I don't mind braids, but I don't like it when people touch my head." For Alex, touch to her head just felt more intense. Even rubbing her own head was painful, as though someone were pressing her weight onto her scalp. She often didn't tell people about that, but she figured Faye could be trusted.

Although Alex could recognize that Fate was reacting emotionally, and it seemed positive, she couldn't really make out what had caused it. Or rather, why exactly it was warranted. That said, she was glad Faye felt good. She didn't smile, but she simply responded. "You're welcome."

With a nod, Alex agreed that she would like to see the things. Whatever it was. Crowds, and group interactions weren't her specialty, but she had a reasonable enough idea of what to do. Mostly just sit back, and then make vague noises when prompted. Usually, some random extrovert would take center stage, and shift all the expectations to themselves. It got complicated when there were only three people, too small to fade, but still big enough to get awkward. Either way, she walked with Faye interested to see what was the thing, and why she should care exactly...

[Kate Bishop]

Kate entered the Faye party fashionably late, her usual sanctuary of the bedroom's reading nook reluctantly left behind. As the door closed softly behind her, she mentally bid farewell to the intricate tales of Greek mythology, reluctantly exchanging her books' comforting embrace for the evening. Parties were never her preference, but exceptions were made when it came to a Faye gathering. At a quarter to midnight, she emerged onto the streets, ready to immerse herself in the excitement that awaited.

Walking along the beach towards Faye's house, Kate felt the cool sand beneath her shoes, her journey guided by the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore. She ascended the sandy bluff to the Chamberlain's backyard and discovered a familiar scene. The bonfire cast shadows on the faces of familiar friends, Morgana and Adam's vibrant Blackwood hair catching the reddish glow. Brahm's melodic voice resonated through the air, accompanied by the golden aura of Diana, drawing Kate closer with furrowed eyebrows and a curious demeanor.


As Kate approached the gathering, she caught sight of Brahm holding something that emitted prismatic lights. A human-shaped skull made of pure quartz crystal. Her breath caught as recognition struck. One of the Master Tools, depicted in her family's ancient book of shadows, had found its way to the New World with her Coven. There were four in total - a diadem, garter, bracelet, and lastly, the crystal skull. Their coven had symbolic remakes, empty vessels with no power - but this one was real. She could almost feel the energy radiating off of it, even without touching it. A collective hush settled over the group as Diana mentioned a vote, and Beckett responded with a hint of annoyance in his voice. Kate seized this moment to interject, her soft, yet commanding voice shattering the silence that lingered in Beck's wake.

"Pardon the interruption," Kate began, her words carrying authority despite their gentle delivery. "But we don't know how this was used last. Energy has a way of lingering in pure quartz, purifying it could take..." She let her voice trail off, her mind working through calculations and comparing crystal sizes in her possession. "...a year, give or take. We might be better off scrying first, seeing what energy is there. Then, we can take a more direct approach to using it." Her suggestion hung in the air, a thoughtful pause settling over the group as they considered the wisdom she had offered.

[Faye Chamberlain]

Faye strolled alongside Alex, seamlessly navigating the sea of guests as they parted before her, creating a path as if she held the power of Moses parting the Red Sea. It wasn't just about others making way; Faye walked with an air of authority, and those in her path had little choice but to yield or risk being trampled. The double doors leading to the backyard awaited them. With a subtle push, they swung open to reveal the gathering witches around the bonfire.

As they walked, Faye shared her intentions with Alex in hushed tones, her voice carrying an air of secrecy and excitement. "It's one of the Master Tools that belonged to the old coven," she disclosed, her words alone for Alex's ears. "I would love to get my hands on it and see what it's all about. I just have to convince Team Goody to let me." With the declaration hanging in the air, Faye pushed open the double doors with a dramatic sweep, making a grand entrance just in time to catch Kate explaining the purification timeline for the crystal skull.

"A year?!" The incredulous words spilled out of Faye's mouth, her stunning golden eyes widening in astonishment at the revelation. The news of such a lengthy purification process clashed with Faye's impulsiveness. She raised a perfectly arched eyebrow, her mind already churning with thoughts of expediting the acquisition of the coveted artifact.

[Kate Bishop]

Kate observed Faye's entrance with a mixture of amusement and mild exasperation. The sea of partygoers seemed to part effortlessly for her fiery friend as if she possessed an invisible forcefield of authority. As the double doors swung open, revealing the flickering light of the bonfire and the congregation of witches, Kate couldn't help but raise an eyebrow at the dramatic display.

"A year?" Faye's incredulous words echoed in the air, causing a ripple of reactions among the gathered witches. Kate, always one to consider the practicalities, took a step forward, her gaze meeting Faye's. "Yes, Faye. Pure quartz can hold residual energy for quite some time. Rushing the process might risk unintended consequences," she explained calmly, her soft voice carrying a hint of wisdom. "We can try to understand the energy and decide the best course of action."

Faye's golden eyes flitted from Kate's face to the crystal skull in Brahm's hands, a flicker of impatience crossing her features before she composed herself. Kate could see the wheels turning in Faye's mind, her impulsive nature already seeking ways to expedite the acquisition of the artifact. Yet, beneath the facade of excitement, there was a hint of respect in Faye's gaze as she regarded Kate.

Ever the voice of reason amidst the whirlwind of magical fervor, Kate remained steadfast. The somewhat plain, small woman stood before the much taller, beautiful witch and waited. The staredown lasted only a moment, and in the end, it was Faye who folded.

Kate's calm demeanor seemed to punctuate the situation, a stark contrast to the energetic aura that Faye brought to the gathering of witches. Her serious dark gaze held a depth of knowledge that demanded respect, even from someone as impulsive as Faye. The air crackled with anticipation as the two women faced off, and for that brief moment, it felt like the very essence of air stood still in the balance.

"Yes, I think I can get behind that," Faye murmured, her lazy voice softening. The admission was accompanied by a subtle nod, as if conceding to Kate's wisdom. "I second the notion. We can take all the precautions you want, Diana. Scrying certainly can't hurt anything, can it?" Faye's words carried a touch of humor, a playful acknowledgment of the balance between caution and curiosity.

[Faye Chamberlain]

Faye relished the moment, allowing the joy of reunion to linger before breaking into a broad grin. Opening her arms wide, she welcomed her small friend Kate into a warm embrace, laughter bubbling effortlessly from her lips. The scent of cedar and rosemary enveloped them as they swayed back and forth, lost in the comfort of their friendship. "You cut your hair! It looks so good!" Faye exclaimed, genuine admiration shining in her eyes.

After disentangling from Kate's embrace, Faye shifted her attention to Brahm, who held the skull in his hands. Impatiently, she snapped her red-tipped fingers at him, her hand outstretched expectantly. Clearly, she demanded the skull, and this time, she would not be denied. Her determination radiated from her, a force to be reckoned with amidst the camaraderie of friends.

[Brahm van Tassel]

Brahm hesitated momentarily, caught between Faye's demanding gesture and his reservations towards giving it to her. He knew the skull's power and the ancient energies intertwined within its crystalline structure was begging to be released.  Giving it to her was not the best of ideas, especially surrounded by witches as they were. Yet, Faye's determination was palpable, her desire to explore its mysteries evident in every line of her face. 

As Faye snapped her fingers impatiently, Brahm felt a pang of reluctance. The skull was heavy in his hands, its presence resonating with a faint buzz that hinted at its potent history. But as he glanced at Kori, the younger girl's slim shoulders nestled comfortably against his arm, he knew that this moment belonged to Faye.

Reluctantly, he extended his hand, the weight of the skull nearly causing him to lose his grip. The transfer of the artifact felt like a shift in the very fabric of magic, a tangible exchange of power and curiosity. As Faye's red-tipped fingers closed around the skull, Brahm couldn't help but feel the absence of its energy in his own hands. This subtle emptiness spoke of ancient secrets now in the hands of a determined, feisty witch.

[Diana Meade]

Diana smiled a little at Morgana’s words, even if they went against her own warnings. It was near impossible to respond to her infectious positive attitude and outlook on life. Fun and carefree, if only Diana could take a page out of her book. She waited for others to view their thoughts as she had her own.

Kate then spoke up and Diana flicked her gaze to her. The authority in her tone couldn’t be missed, and it demanded that people listen. Diana was, tallying up the thoughts in her own mind as the group continued to discuss. She nodded at Kate’s words. A wise and cautious approach. Good idea in her book.

As expected, Faye heard the words ‘a year’ and nearly lost her shit. Diana kept her face neutral and barely managed to stop rolling her eyes at the typical response from the most reckless among them. Though what really stunned her into silence was Faye and Kate having a stand off and Faye actually conceding to other witch, ” I think that’s the most sensible thing I think I have ever heard you say, Faye.” Diana commented and was still reeling.

Three against and 1 for using the skull tonight. She nodded at Kate’s suggestion, ” It is a great idea.” Diana told her. Scrying couldn’t hurt anyone. She nodded at the others, ” Alex, Adam, Brahm Beck your thoughts?” She asked of them kindly. Adam, she knew would likely agree with her & Kate. Beck would probably side against her out of spite and jealousy. Brahm & Alex, could go either way… she didn’t know them that well.

Brahm van Tassel Adam Conant Beckett Forsythe Alex Lange

[Brahm van Tassel]

Brahm's gaze softened as he looked down at Kori, the warmth of the bonfire casting a gentle warm glow on her youthful features. Her red hair shimmered in the flickering light, and her blue eyes held a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty. He could sense the unspoken question lingering between them, a subtle tension that added an undercurrent of complexity to the gathering.

When Diana posed her question, Brahm felt a surge of determination mingled with caution. "I can get behind that, but it should be a full circle," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of reverence for the ancient energies still resonating within him. He paused, mindful of Faye's possessive gaze, before continuing with his suggestion.

"...I think we could also involve our newest coven member. What do you think, Kori?" Brahm's words were gentle, encouraging, as he sensed Kori's initial stiffness soften under his arm. Her eyes darted around the group, absorbing their reactions, before she spoke with a breathless anticipation.

"Really? I come of age on Saturday, and I would love to join in. If you'd have me?" Kori's soft, timid voice held a mixture of excitement and nervousness, her gaze shifting to Diana as she awaited the coven leader's response. The air around them seemed charged with anticipation, a momentous decision on the horizon that was heralded by a sudden ocean breeze that sent the Chamberlain's wind chimes into a cacophony of sound.

[Faye Chamberlain]

Faye's response was as unpredictable as ever. After Diana's comment, she made a small tisk with her tongue, a playful gesture that hinted at her amusement. With a mischievous glint, she lifted the Crystal Skull, studying it intently as if seeking answers in its ancient crystalline depths.

Bringing the skull closer to her face, Faye's full red lips curved into a smile as she gently kissed its grinning, crystal teeth. It was a moment of reverence mixed with her characteristic boldness, a display of her connection to the mystical artifacts surrounding them.

Then, in a move that surprised almost everyone, Faye then extended her hand and handed the skull to Alex.

[Adam Conant]

Adam ran his hand through his wine-red hair, enjoying the soft late summer breeze that swept through the patio. The other hand was brought low on Diana's back, seeking solace in her touch. He felt the charge in the air, perhaps caused by the condensation of powerful witches nearby. It felt electric, charged like a storm brewing on a distant horizon.

His eyes softened when Kori mentioned her birthday, and he made a mental note to himself to get her a gift for the occasion. Kori was a Blackwood on her grandmother's side, making her and her brothers related to Adam by blood. The Henderson brothers had a much wilder, chaotic presence and had a way of making trouble. Aligned with Faye's ideals regarding magic, they used witchcraft to dangerous and sometimes hilarious effects.

Of course, that incident with the chemistry lab at New Salem High a few years back led to the entire building wing shutting down for over a year. Thankfully, Kori had not followed her elder brother's footsteps, but would that change in the future? Where would her values lead her when it came time for the coven leadership vote? "I would be happy to have you, Kori."