It keeps happening

[forcegalactic]

[After that horror show of an execution, Mordecai is still restless from the investigation and trial. He has too much pent-up energy, and plenty of others are sure to be upset, too. Ashley was loved by nearly all of them, the trial was mentally draining, and that execution was crueler than it should have been.

Two hours after everyone has returned to their rooms, they'll find a note slipped under their doors.]

We can't go on with empty stomachs. There's food in the kitchen, and the dining room is always open if you need someone to talk to.

Please keep anything outside of eating and civilized conversation away from the dining hall. That room is meant to be a peaceful place for those of us that need it.

-Mordecai Benmont Jiminy

[Today, there's cream of tomato soup warming up on the stove with a set of bowls besides it. It's a more mindless dish to prepare than mashed potatoes, as much as Mordecai wants to vent his frustrations on the potatoes.

He decides to follow Cabanela's tradition and lights one more candle, and after some consideration, lights a sixth. Let those who cared about either girl pay their respects.]

Comments

[decrees]

[That's... probably going to be uncomfortable with the chestplate on, but Logan only hesitates for a moment before just sort of... awkwardly latching on. He doesn't say anything, but he's shaking and not even bothering trying to hide it.]

[perpend]

[....It's okay. Take your time.

Granted, he's far better when it comes to comforting kids, but Cabanela isn't letting go, even if this is pretty uncomfortable.]

[decrees]

[Sorry... He could take it off, but that would probably be just as awkward at this point.

Eventually he pulls back, after he's gotten the shaking mostly under control.]

...I apologize. That... You shouldn't have seen that.

[perpend]

[He shakes his head.]

We're all... under a great deal of duress.

I dooon't think anything of it.

[decrees]

I can't afford to be weak, especially not now. Not after... everything.

...Please, don't tell anyone about this. Any of this. I... am not prepared to speak about Aurora again.

[He clasps his hands behind his back. They're shaking again, but he's trying to regain his composure.]

[perpend]

You haaaave my word: this doesn't leave this room.

[decrees]

...Thank you. I... genuinely appreciate it.

[perpend]

[He gives a weak smile.]

What else are friends for?

[decrees]

[He doesn't smile in return, but he seems to have settled a bit.]

...Most friends don't have to put up with... that. Any of that.

[perpend]

I'm nooo expert on the ins and outs of friendship, but I'm sure they're willing to.

[decrees]

...You're very kind, Cabanela.

[perpend]

[He'll take that as a thank you.]

Don't mention it.