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[IC] Austin Is Dead

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Hidden 3 mos ago → 3 mos ago Post by LanaStorm
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THE ARCADIAN


Arcadia County, Elysian Heights - Superpowered native Austin Witten was found dead earlier yesterday morning as police and medical examiners attended the home after a call came describing what appeared to be a shooting star hitting the backyard of the lower mainland area house.

An investigation revealed the victim of the crash to be Austin Witten, Witten was known throughout the county as a superpowered 'hero' described by some in the county. The rise of powered vigilantes has drawn concern in the nation from lawmakers and the public, from all accounts Witten was loved within the county. Investigators say his death was in conjunction with other use of his powers daily, causing heart failure.

Advocates for control of powered person say this is a sign that power usage has a negative overall effect to human bodies and thus the powers should be restricted or controlled to save lives, while others disagree the debate on powers and the people who use them rage on.

Needless to say, despite debate a hero in Arcadia County has perished.

Jessica Delarosa, Powered-Affairs Writer




Home Coming


Driving in to Elysian Heights was definetly something, akin to being hit by a truck when she finally crossed the county lines back into a Elysian. How did she feel with this all coming to ahead, Austin wasn't really a pal of Cass's but something drove her to come back to Elysian - his death was just the catalyst to that after all.

Sharks would say it's to scoop the story about the death of a hero, few would say that she cared - could she even change that narrative?

Before she could hit the innerside of Elysian she was lit up by a Arcadia Sheriff's patrol car, being pulled over she stopped on the shoulder. Within a few minutes her vehicle was approached by none other than Marcus Goodnight - the Sheriff, funny name aside he was an older man, almost hitting 60 has been conseuctively re-elected as Sheriff time and time again. The white shirt wearing, cologne dunked, miltary esque attire man made it to the driver's side peering in.

"License and registration." Pausing for a moment

"Cass Warden."

@Auragreedia





Melancholy


"Alright, take tomorrow off. Don't think the Sheriff will have an issue."

In the Sergeant's office, Miller's request for time off to attend the funeral was granted reluctantly. The "main" funeral had already happended, a parade celebrating Austin's life - speeches from the Mayor, Sheriff and even the County Chair had come down to Elysian to a massive crowd, over a thousand was it?

But that's not what today would be about, this funeral - the real one, not the dress rehearsal was more personal, real, lived in. There wasn't going to be a massive crowd of people, they already 'came' for that yesterday. Feeding the people and what they wanted, yeah it all was just a circus.

He changed, left the locker room and made it to the underground parking lot - leaving the night behind he returned home.

Dawn called upon him and reflection - everything that happended up until now, how did they end up as best friends to them drifting apart. Austin had grown bigger than any of the two thought that they would, he was larger than life - a hero in life, not just death.

It was the morning now, there was more to think about - he had all the time in the world, it's taken for granted. Austin never did though, and with that there is alot Austin never will do.

Living, that's what comes to Miller's mind - how will they live now, with him gone? Did it matter?

@JFK





Brake Check


"Bay 3, opening bay 3!"

One of the mechanics calls out as Summer Ford's car was dragged in lifeless to the mechanic bay, one mechanic below in the decks and more up top including Jaxon. This was the last thing that Summer was expecting on her way to Austin's funeral, it was already bad enough he was dead - it just sounded horrible, death by use of his powers? How does someone go out like that, was she - could she already be showing signs? The flat tire just exagerbated the entire ordeal.

Just like any other day Jaxon worked his little shop, being one of the powered businesses in Elysian was a boost for him and his small motley crew of recent high school grads. There had been some serious traffic yesterday, the shop was going to be shut down early so he could attend the funeral. Hell that night where Austin saved him, it still resonates with him to this day - but while the day dreaming faded on our shield powered friend reality kicked back in as one of his mechanics approached with a chart.

"Driver's front side tire is out, flat needs a change. Lady says she knows you?"

That's when Jaxon met Summer, again.

@h8k8m8@themaybreeze
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by Auragreedia
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Auragreedia Out of the Frying Pan, / Into The Fire

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Home Coming
Interactions: @LanaStorm | Mentions: @themaybreeze@JFK

Coming back to Elysian Heights after all this time... Cass sighs and takes a right turn. The road looked the same as it did when she first left. Were the people the same too? It feels as though the moment she reenters Elysian, it would all be the same again: she'd be sixteen again with her little clique, Austin would still be alive and chatting with Chris, and he'd still be exchanging glances with Summer in the middle of class.

Her brows furrow, she passes one or two cars driving out. The road is mostly empty besides that, so, she figures nobody would mind her speeding a bit; it's just a straight line into Elysian now, and she doesn't see any cops around.

Why did she come back to Elysian Heights? She never liked Austin, sure, but she knew him, partially. That was probably more than the general public could say, and it'd make a fine story to write on Austin's personal life, share that heroes are human too. Even if they don't feel like it sometimes.

It's hard to fake hatred, and for her, it shows all too well in her writing.

But Austin was a good person, even if he was childish. Hate or not, it's... weird knowing that even a powered person can just up and die one day doing the right thing.

The public deserves to hear about his story, and she'd be the first to write about it.

"Shit." Cass mutters to herself as she's pulled over by a cop. She got spotted, god dammit. She was so close to Elysian, too.

Her window rolls down and it take a moment for both her and the officer to recognize each other.

"License and registration." Pausing for a moment "Cass Warden."

"Mr. Goodnight?" Cass gawks at the older sheriff, her driver's license and registration in one hand. "You're still working? I haven't seen you since I graduated..."

Hell, Marcus Goodnight still looked exactly how she remembered, just a little older now. It's hard to hide aging like that. He's been sheriff ever since she was a kid, and from what she remembers, he was well-known around the neighborhood for his love of the Elysian community. if you had any trouble, you'd come to Mr. Goodnight, and he'd handle it all for you.

Despite being deathly afraid of the old sheriff when she was younger, she always saw him as a cool, neighborhood uncle of sorts. It's both nice and somewhat concerning to see him still working at his old age--he should've retired by now, right?

"If you still need the stuff, then," she holds her driver's license out awkwardly, "I'm coming back for Austin's funeral to write his biography--the public deserves to know that he was human--a hero, but same as us."
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by MaeB
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♡ 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓮𝓻 𝓕𝓸𝓻𝓭
𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓔𝔁-𝓖𝓲𝓻𝓵𝓯𝓻𝓲𝓮𝓷𝓭 ♡

_______________


Summer had been running errands for her mother when she heard the tyre pop.

“Well, shit.”


The racer red Mini Cooper had been the first gift she’d bought herself once she’d settled in financially at OverZealous - A reputable marketing and advertising company. The first few pay-checks had been spent dragging herself out of her overdraft but once she was back on her feet, she’d slid her debit card across the dealership desk with a proud smile. Growing up in a single-parent household with enough sisters to start a 5 a side football team, Summer wasn’t accustomed to excess. She’d grown up on hand-me-downs, leftovers and thrift stores. A brand new Mini Cooper was definitely not within her grasp before taking on the role at OverZealous. It became one of her most prized possessions; A symbol of her hard graft and evidence that she didn’t have to use her power of persuasion to achieve her dreams.

The pot hole responsible for her blown tyre felt no remorse for adding to Summers already overflowing emotional baggage. She mentally cursed the lack of road maintenance in Elysian Heights, wishing she was already in the City where roads were freshly laid and public transport was plentiful. Running errands was only supposed to take a couple of hours, leaving her plenty of time to drive to the funeral…

“Shit, the funeral…”


She’d instantly called the Garage from the car, the dial tone beeping through the speakers, and she begged them to squeeze her in for a tyre change. They’d been hesitant. Told her they’d been ‘crazy busy’ the last couple of days.

“There’s a big funeral in Elysian Heights today, ya know - Loads of randoms visiting town for the parade yesterday…” the garage receptionist had explained.


Summer had slowed to a stop at a red light and stared blankly at the road ahead. Eyes draining of life as the word “funeral” repeated in the echo chamber of her mind, she felt her chest tighten. Summer’s stomach coiled inside her, rigid with knowing. She knew Austin’s death would become a spectacle. Town gossip. An event where opportunists could come to Elysian Heights and mutate a powered death into anything but what it should be: A tragedy. The receptionist said she doubted they could even squeeze her in today and the emotions began to bubble over. Eyes flicking to the green light, Summer shifted the stick into first gear and found the biting point, the handicapped Mini struggling to pull off. Her knuckles whitened on the wheel, teeth biting down on her lower lip. She needed her car. She needed it for today. She needed it for tomorrow. Elysian Heights wasn’t abundant with alternative garages… Her options ran dry as quickly as the tyre drained of air.

Summer resented her power at times like these. The right thing would be to thank the receptionist for her time and punch the red button. Let it go. But today wasn’t just any other day, okay? It was Austin’s funeral and her heart ached enough without this added stress. So she made the decision to use her unfair advantage. Begrudgingly, Summer sucked air through her teeth and switched up a gear, already driving the route to the garage. She narrowed her eyes, summoned the inner power that crackled beneath her skin. It sparked to life and tingled at her fingertips as she flicked the indicator and spun the wheel.

“You know what?” Summer said slowly, her voice taking on an otherworldly tone. It became deeper, more commanding. It echoed, against all scientific odds. “I think you’re going to find the time to fit me in today. I’d really appreciate it. You’re going to meet me in a moment and you’ll make sure someone can take a look at this blown tyre. You’ll replace it. And then you’ll charge me extra for the inconvenience.”


Silence fell. The other end of the line deathly quiet. Summer pressed her lips together in a hard line, the instant guilt of using her power feeling like bile in her throat. She’d made it acceptable in her mind, adding the extra charge. It evened the playing field. Sort of. After what felt like an eternity, the receptionist sighed, her voice pouring back through the speaker.

“I’m going to squeeze you in. Head on over now, we’ll get the tyre looked at… But I have to tell you, we’ll have to charge a premium for the rush.”


Her voice was vacant. It often sounded that way, after someone had been persuaded. A flat, emotionless tone. It racked Summer with guilt each and every time. But she pressed her foot down further on the accelerator, the Mini’s flat tyre cursing her, and she let a huff of relief hiss from her lips.

“Thank you so much,” Summer switched gears again, “I’ll leave you guys the biggest tip.”


______________________


"Bay 3, opening bay 3!"


The receptionist hadn’t lied. The garage was amass with organised chaos. All the crashing, banging, clanging and the shouts of mechanics hard at work made for a layered orchestra of activity. Summer had greeted the girl at the front desk with the warmest smile she could manage. A twinge of guilt plucked at the strings of her heart, the persuasion hadn’t yet dissipated and when Summer introduced herself, she watched the residue of her influence cloud the receptionists face.

Over the girl’s shoulder, past the mechanic that was taking a look at the paperwork, Summer spotted a face she recognised. Amongst the thrum of people, she saw Jaxon. A lightbulb illuminated in her mind. They’d been at high school together! Not friends. Not close. But they’d known eachother well enough to recognise one another in the hallways. She tried to catch his eye before saying to the mechanic holding her chart,

“Is that… Jaxon?” Summer said hesitantly, angling her head to get a better look. “I know him! We went to school together.”


It wasn’t meant to come off as a name-drop. She was just surprised to see him. But the garage staff member peeled off in Jaxon’s direction anyway. Summer settled her bill in advance with the receptionist, thumbing her pin in, ignoring the excessive charge for a singular tyre change. She told herself it was worth it. Worth it for the karma. Worth it for the inconvenience. Worth it for Austin’s funeral. Declining a receipt, she placed a healthy wedge of bills on the desk as a tip.

Then, she looked up in Jaxon’s general direction and waited.
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by h8k8m8
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h8k8m8

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Jaxon Nowak

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Jaxon sucked in his breath through his teeth as he worked on some out-of-towner's porsche. It was nicer than any car he had ever worked on, which scared him a little to be honest. "Damn parade and all these city punks thinking this is some sort of spectacle, he muttered to himself as he changed the last brake pad with relative ease. Once he was done, he took a moment to inspect his work to make sure everything was good to go.

Satisfied with his work, he ran his oily fingers through his hair and let out a sigh of relief. The last few days have been particularly busy because of the funeral. Everyone and their moms were here to pay their respect to the local hero. Jaxon knew that this was good for their family business, but still. He wasn't used to all this hubbub and attention. It was uncomfortable and made part of him want to just hide away in his room. But no, he had to be a normal, functioning adult in society.

This was supposed to be his last job so that he could go clean himself up for the funeral. He wasn't sure why he decided to go. He didn't know Austin very well aside from that one conversation they had. The one that still haunted him to this day. But Jaxon Nowak was no hero. He wasn't Austin Witten and he never could be.

But unfortunately, Fate had other plans. (Fate was the name of their receptionist.)

"Driver's front side tire is out, flat needs a change. Lady says she knows you?"

Jaxon's eyes narrowed suspiciously. He couldn't think of anyone who would know him, despite living in Elysian Height all his life. His first thought was that someone was playing a prank on him. But when he turned to look, instead of some random prankster, he saw Summer Ford.

He was surprised that she remembered him and that she even knew his name. They had went to the same high school, but she was an upperclassman and he wasn't exactly the popular type. Plus she was Summer Ford. Everyone knew Summer- she was Austin's high school sweetheart. They were cute together. And people like Summer Ford and Austin Witten didn't really talk to people like Jaxon.

He took in another deep breath and tried to fight back the migraine that he could feel setting in. "Summer," he said slowly as if he was getting used to talking to people again. Getting a better look at her as he drew nearer, she looked as pretty as ever. It made him suddenly more aware of how dirty and grimy he looked from working in the shop all day. "We'll get that tire sorted out for you in a jiffy."

Did anyone even say the word 'jiffy' anymore? He winced only in his mind. No time for feeling embarrassed. He just needed to get this job done and then he was finished for the day.

He gave her a nod before heading over to her car that had already been lifted up by one of his coworkers. In no time at all, he removed the hub cap and loosened the lug nuts to pop the tire off. Then he got a brand new tire, popped it in, and tighten the lug nuts to lock it into place. Once he was done, he motioned for one of his coworkers to bring the car back down. This whole process took probably about twenty minutes.

"Good as new, he said, attempting to sound friendly and polite. Unfortunately, sounding friendly and polite was not a strong suit of his. "Hopefully this new tire works out for you. Come back here if you have any more issues."
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Hidden 3 mos ago → 3 mos ago Post by JFK
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Death is a Silvered Mirror

Chris was exceptional in many ways. Most impressively, he'd managed to go nearly 27 years without ever being forced to face his own mortality. He had lived untouchable until now. He'd been to many funerals. He'd seen numerous relatives die in front of him. He'd even been placed in some very dangerous situations through his work. But nothing had ever struck him like this. Austrian had always been different, and his death was as well.

Chris had been among the group of people to first hear about the accident. He hadn't witnessed it, or been among the responders. But ever since it occurred, his social circles had been laser focused on the event. Many stories spread like wildfire through Elysian Heights. There were all different. Whatever had happened, Chris had a strong suspicion the whole story had yet to be told. He tightened his tie knot, focusing on his appearance in the mirror. It was difficult to quell the rising tide of thoughts. But Chris was an expert at quieting his mind. Keeping the shadows hidden; the difficult thoughts out of focus.

For once, Chris didn't know what to think. As he got into his car, he grappled with questions and theories. He donned a pair of sunglasses to hide the confusion and distraction visible in his eyes. He set his jaw firmly. He ignored the strange feeling and put his car into gear. There was an old scar on the inside of his cheek. He chewed at it absent mindedly as he drove. It wasn't far, but Chris wasn't in a hurry.

His thoughts span back, back to his childhood. A childhood sprinkled memories of Austin. Who was now dead. They had spent the morning running around the woods behind Chris's. They had caught crawdads and fought eachother with sticks. The stakes were low, the sun was shining, and Chris and Austin were too young to remember their fights. A couple days after this conversation, they'd had a falling out. Chris couldn't remember why. But he did recall the conversation they had had while splashing in the creek. "One day, our kids might do this as well, Austin." Austin had glanced at Chris, "I hope the creek is still here for them." The boys nodded in unison. At their age, it was a certainty. Now, Austin is gone. And Chris felt that it was uncertain if there would be any kids to play in the creek. But the water still babbled on, unchanged from the lively brook that the two kids had reigned childish terror on.

Anyone waiting at the red light next to Chris might've noticed the slight frown crawl over his face. Chris hadn't noticed. The light changed and ended his reminiscing. He didn't dare dawdle any longer. In fact, he arrived early.
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by LanaStorm
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Homecoming cont.



Goodnight was likely in his early 60s, close to retirement from leading the department, he would likely not run for re-electio,n but no one could ever tell. A man doing a 30+ year career was uncommon nowadays, especially in Arcadia County. His uniform was pressed, the man was fit for being an old timer - his hands reached out to take her license and any other documents offered to the legendary lawman.

"There's still work to be done Ms. Warden." He says before keying up his radio, looking to check for any warrants for Warden before returning the license to her.

Public Safety never rests; Cass should know that. Though as the towering law enforcement officer looked down on her, he parted a few words before letting her go.

"Most people that knew Mr. Witten stayed in Elysian, the vultures that wanted to make a buck off him already came and 'gon. Whatever you're looking for, coming back to Elysian after so long - I hope you find it ma'am, now go to his funeral and when it's done, don't overstay your welcome. We've had enough tourists this year - you're free to go."

With that he tipped his big ol' Sheriff campaign hat and returned to his cruiser, off to find the next speeder or next call.

Out of all the people she could of ran into she came face to face with the human lie detector, not one to accuse her but also not one to welcome her in like she was still a local. While Cass's bitter hatred to Austin wasn't the talk of the town, her rep as a jerk or bully was not easily forgotten.

For the Sheriff who had seen all types of people fall in for the parade and condolences to Austin, Cass did not move him as sincerely as genuine.

Actions speak louder than words, Austin knew that firsthand. It would be up to Cass to prove Goodnight and other naysayers wrong, or remain the person people still thought she was - a petty girl.

@Auragreedia

Brake Check cont.



For Summer, the prospect of power-based discrimination always happened to her, especially out of Elysian - once you showed your hand (literally - or powers), people's opinions on you could sour, change just like that. While Jaxon owned the mechanic shop, not everyone was powered like him. It was a bit ironic but when Summer pushed for an appointment, Fate folded and the Mini Cooper found its place amongst other cars on Jaxon's powered lift.

There weren't any other shops in town that would take her on short notice, so in a way maybe it was fate she ran into Jaxon?

Jaxon remained professional, having the tire changed over in about twenty minutes, though it felt a lot longer. It wasn't embarrassing to run into Summer just - unexpected, a jolt back into the past. Her being here just reinforced the obvious: Austin wasn't coming back. A reminder that the funeral was just that much closer, reality check right?

While his mechanics and staff continued to work on other cars, a moment opened up a lull in action between the two as she was set to head off.

@h8k8m8@themaybreeze

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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by Auragreedia
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Auragreedia Out of the Frying Pan, / Into The Fire

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@LanaStorm

"Most people that knew Mr. Witten stayed in Elysian, the vultures that wanted to make a buck off him already came and 'gon. Whatever you're looking for, coming back to Elysian after so long - I hope you find it ma'am, now go to his funeral and when it's done, don't overstay your welcome. We've had enough tourists this year - you're free to go."

"It's fine," she says, grabbing her license back. "I'll be out as soon as possible."

So nothing changed after all? Cass furrows her brows. She doesn't take it personally, she wasn't local anymore. If anything, it was probably more offensive for her to come back into Elysian, especially now.

Why did she come back? The other journalists were faster than her, it seems; money had already been made, just as Mr. Goodnight said. She sighs and gets back to driving. She couldn't prove anyone wrong; she really doesn't think so. She doesn't even know why she drove in, but something drew her back to Elysian after Austin's death, and she'd have to figure out what.

Her eyes stay on the road.

Writing Austin's biography, could she really do it?
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Hidden 3 mos ago → 3 mos ago Post by MaeB
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♡ 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓮𝓻 𝓕𝓸𝓻𝓭
𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓔𝔁-𝓖𝓲𝓻𝓵𝓯𝓻𝓲𝓮𝓷𝓭 ♡

_______________


The Soundtrack to this Post… Enjoy!


Summer watched as Jaxon made his way across the garage towards her. He was taller, if that was even possible. Broader. But he still rolled his shoulders as if he were trying to slink away into the background. The adolescent acne had cleared from his face yet still those dark circles remained. They hung beneath his eyes, evidence of sleepless nights or broken sleep… Jaxon was a few years younger than her in school. He wasn’t an extrovert nor did he desire the limelight. In fact, Summer remembered Jaxon as somewhat of a recluse, his head ducked down and eyes fixed permanently at the floor. She remembered the way his blonde hair had fallen so often in front of his face, like a curtain. Jaxon would hide behind that veil of blonde hair, eyes peering out from behind it. Those blonde locks were tied back with a rubber band today, lazily knotted in a bun at the nape of his slender neck. Summer cocked her head as she took him in. She marvelled at how, sometimes, time showed itself most glaringly in the way someone has grown. Jaxon walked with purpose, his overalls spattered with grease and a smudge of oil across his cheekbone.

"Summer," he said by way of greeting. Short. Perfunctory. But somehow friendly, in his own way. A pearly white grin spread across her face and she waved at him, fingers waggling jovially. "We'll get that tire sorted out for you in a jiffy."


The echo of a wrinkle appeared between his thick brows, the dust of his choice of words settling around them. Summer suppressed a giggle, dimples pinching at her cheeks. She watched him with the softness of someone coaxing a rescue dog from beneath the sofa. Her warm smile never wavered as she pressed her hands together in a symbol of prayer.

“Thank you so much, Jaxon. I really appreciate it! I know you guys are so busy today… I hope I haven’t put you behind schedule?” Summer inclined her head, raising her eyebrows and flicked him a mischievous grin. “Although, if it’ll only be a jiffy, I suppose that’s not too much trouble for you.”


Jaxon seemed the kind of soul whose internal workings never quite made it to the light of day. Though he presented as a quiet introvert, Summer could see by the way he held himself somewhat self consciously , that there was much more beneath the surface with him. She recognised his awkwardness, the way he shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other, that her direct eye contact felt exposing to him. Before she had the chance to say anything else, Jaxon had turned away and taken a few long strides back to where her Mini was ready for the tyre change. Summer looked around the garage for somewhere to sit, to wait whilst Jaxon worked his magic. But the Garage was so busy she thought better of it. Instead, she stayed at the desk, watching as Jaxon’s hands moved expertly as they handled various tools and the new tyre.

Sleeves rolled up slightly at the cuff, Jaxon’s forearms littered with vascularity as he moved, and Summer felt the threat of a blush pinch at her cheeks. Her eyes slid away, adverting her gaze. Instantly, her mind strayed to Austin. She wondered if Jaxon knew him. Did they secretly walk home together? Did they bump into eachother whilst running errands and chat? Summer knew Austin would’ve made time for a soul like Jaxon’s. Though he was infamous for his powers and enigmatic personality, there was a recluse streak in Austin. He resented the limelight, hated the way his powers made people change around him. He always used to say that his most treasured moments, where he felt most naked and most alive, were when it was just the two of them in her single bed set against the wall of her teenage bedroom. Surrounded by posters of artists long-forgotten, plushies well-worn from the salt of nighttime tears in the crook of her neck… Austin was always so desperate to be treated as “normal.” He wanted to be seen, unseen. And as Jaxon knelt by Summer’s Mini Cooper, she wondered if he too felt that need.

The memory of her first love, now vanished from everywhere but her memories, made Summer’s eyes prickle. She sniffed defiantly, pushing that feeling down with an almighty shove. She had to uphold some air of composure. There were too many eyes in the Garage, too many strangers who’d look away from her grief with a wince. Right on time, Jaxon returned to her. He wiped his greased palms on his overalls, clearing his throat.

“Good as new,”he said, the implied breeziness totally lacking from his tone. Jaxon avoided meeting Summer’s gaze. "Hopefully this new tyre works out for you. Come back here if you have any more issues."


A silence feel between them, just briefly. Summer nodded, a smile slightly dimmer than the one she’d shone in his direction before, and watched as Jaxon’s colleagues brought her car down. The new tyre shone with tight, unworn rubber.

“I’ll be heading over to Austin’s funeral in a couple of hours…” she said, her voice tight with the emotions she wouldn’t show. “I didn’t go to the parade yesterday… He would’ve hated that. But I think the service today will be… Nice”


Nice? She sighed at her poor choice of words and used both hands to adjust her waist-length twists that sprouted like a dark waterfall from her head.

“Will I see you there?” Summer asked, attempting to keep her tone bright and casual.
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by h8k8m8
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Jaxon Nowak
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Jaxon wondered if he looked directly at Summer for too long if he would go blind. There was something brilliant about her eyes, so full of emotions and life. And there was something even more dazzling about her smile. The real one. Not the forced one that she was giving him right now as she brought up Austin’s funeral.

Jax had always been really good at picking up the little things. The forced eye strain and the slight twitches of the corner of the lip when someone was pretending to smile and holding it for too long. But he was never good at figuring out what those things meant. He had always assumed that it was because he was making the other person uncomfortable, rather than some other underlying factors.

Yet this felt different. Despite how busy it was today in the shop, for a moment it felt like they were in their own little bubble. Watching her play with her hair nervously, made him feel like maybe she was in the same boat as him. They were just two people connected by the loss of someone that was probably more important to them than any outsider would be able to understand. It made him want to open up to her, to let her know that she wasn’t alone.

“I… didn’t know Austin really well,” he found himself admitting and finally looking at Summer directly in the eyes. He held his gaze, even though he could feel his social anxiety rising as he felt her eyes focused back on him. He felt like she could see right through him, into his soul- something he never wanted anyone to see. “Even so, he still made an impact on me. He was just that type of person, you know? I mean, of course you know. You probably know better than I do because…”

He paused his rambling to let out a rare chuckle- or rather it slipped out. He didn’t even remember when was the last time he laughed out loud. It wasn’t that he said anything particularly funny, but he was suddenly amused by how awkward he was. For a brief second, it felt like a weight had been lifted from his heart. ”Sorry, I guess I didn’t even answer your question. Yeah, I’ll be there. Your car was my last job for the day and then I’m going to go back home to make myself somewhat presentable.”

There was a pause as he settled back down to his usual self. The heaviness from his insecurities and self doubt returned, and he was now embarrassed by his words and actions. He gave her a final nod before slipping away from the conversation. ”See you later, Summer,’ he said so softly that he wasn’t even sure if he said it aloud.


After clocking out, he drove back to his childhood home. It was a humble, little house with only two bedrooms, but that was plenty for their small family. When he got in through the garage, his grandpa was watching television while his grandma was folding some laundry. Jaxon mumbled some sort of greeting as he sped past them to go upstairs.

He tried to find the most suitable black outfit for the occasion and had to settle with a grey shirt, black jacket and his darkest pair of jeans. As he took a shower, he could not help but replay the conversation he had with Summer earlier. Why did she have to come into the shop and why today of all day? He scrubbed hard to get the dirt and grime from work off his body, as if it would also help wash away the embarrassment he felt from their interaction. Part of him wanted to believe that he was fine and that he didn't do or say anything particularly weird but his insecurities continued to nag at him. "Why do you even bother?" they scowled. "Why are you even going to the funeral anyway? It's not like anyone would care if you were there. It's not like he would care if you were there."

He turned off the water and felt his body shiver from coming into contact with the cold air. He took a deep breath to steel his nerves. "I'm going because I want to go. For myself. Not anyone else," he thought, fighting back the negative thoughts as he dried himself off with a towel. Then he got dressed and headed out, making his way toward the funeral before he could change his mind again.
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by LanaStorm
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When You Were Young


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It didn’t feel real.

Asking Summer out to prom was a big thing for Austin. Going steady for however long ago, it was only natural that at the end of their senior year, they went to prom. It wasn’t something that was unexpected, but when it came to promposals, Austin was kind of lame, nothing super creative - depending on who you asked. A floating piece of purple Bristol board with “PROM???” on it came floating up to Summer’s bedroom early one night.

The response was as you would expect it - a yes of course. Picking up Summer in his mom’s lil SUV was the start of the highlight of that night. Upon arriving at the school, the place was already packed, for a small town, there was a lot of heart in the kids going here. Even with powers just developing in that year, so before the stigma and discrimination wavered. The dance floor wasn’t full yet, so the two took it there to start.

Summer gripped Austin’s hand in hers, ignoring the sheer layer of sweat that sheened her palm. Her eyes scanned the school hall, looking for a face she recognised as a friend. But it was a sea of fellow excitable teenagers, all laughing and chatting and doing everything but dancing. She stole a side-glance at her prom date who stood somewhat awkwardly at the sidelines, trying his best to play it off as nonchalance. She nudged him playfully with her elbow, the fabric of her dress rustling in response.

“May I have your first dance?” Summer asked in a poorly executed British accent.

They fell into step together, her arms snaking around his shoulders like she’d seen in the movies. Looking up at him, she stepped from one high heel to another, swaying to the sound of acoustic guitar and a hauntingly enchanting voice. Heads began to turn, whispers of admiration spreading like wildfire through the crowd. Summer and Austin first to dance for the first dance. Of course they were. But the bustling hall soon faded to a blur and all Summer could see was Austin’s piercing gaze melting into hers, his lips resisting the twitch of a smile as she grinned back at him.

“First dance… It’s the only dance right?” Austin replied, a bit serious - he was not the dance cheater type, Summer would murder him. Though he went along with the alleged brit, the two danced, bringing on the envy and eyes of their peers. One if not the only, powered couple in school at the time, there was controversy in being as perfect or as special as the two, but none could really come close. Austin swayed, moving slowly with her as the two slow danced, as others joined around them.

“Am I… Doin’ this right - right?” putting the question back onto her, while his hand laid on one of her hips and the other just under her arm. There were nerves to this as well, alot of pressure - not to misstep or ruin the mood it was Prom after all. Austin just shot her a cheesy smile as always, times like these were what they lived for after all.

Summer giggled, finding his awkwardness and goofiness as endearing as ever. He was doing fine, really. But there was something a little more robotic to the way they were moving than she liked. Sliding a hand down the length of his arm, she gently took his hand in hers and moved it to the small of her back. This position felt significantly more comfortable and looked more natural. Austin’s other stayed on her hip and she continued to sway with him, moving her hips beneath his hand in time with the acoustic guitar. She marvelled that this would be her one and only ever prom... And she was spending it with her high school sweetheart. Eyes looked on enviously as Austin somewhat rigidly moved Summer into a spin, twirling her so that her dusky pink silk dress rippled at her ankles. She let out an excitable laugh as she spun, rounding it off by touching a warm palm to his cheek. She looked up at him from beneath her lashes, the ghost of her laughter still dancing on her lips.

“You’re not such a bad dancer when you’re not overthinking it,” Summer whispered into his ear, her spearmint breath brushing his neck. “Now you just gotta look like you’re enjoying it…” A playful smirk spread across her face and she punctuated her flirtatious tone with a wink. Then, she reached up on the tips of her toes and planted a slow kiss on his cheek where her hand had just been, breathing in the smell of his cologne.

Austin held her even closer despite the non-so overly intoxicating rose cologne or was it perfume he was wearing? He didn’t remember grabbing it from his parents stuff, being a Witten didn’t mean plan it was just do. Everything just looked and felt perfect, for once in his life it had been going well. That’s what growing up was anyways, messing up and trying again until you could get it right and tonight was a culmination of that. He smiled - sighing at Summer as he twirled her around ending up closer to her again.

“I wish we could be like this forever.”

Austin smiled, cheering up he started to enjoy himself - there was only going to be one prom right? After being smooched he leaned in, brought Summer close and kissed her on the lips. Not the explosive riposte he had planned but the whole home run, others in the crowd looked on, stared even. To hell with them - it was their night after all, once he pulled back from the kiss the song seemed to end and fade.

”Thank you for the dance, Summer.” He grinned.

His lips were on hers quickly, crushing them slightly beneath a hurried pucker. She felt herself smiling into his lips, fingers slipping into his hairline. Summer felt her skin aglow with adoration for this boy. They were, simply put, best friends. Yet there was an undeniable chemistry that was intoxicating. Everyone could see it. Their stolen glances, secretive hands brushing thighs, small smiles from across the room… Summer and Austin had something that transcended high school. She knew, despite her mothers pessimism, that she’d love Austin forever.

As he twirled her again, her braids fanning out around her, Summer let out another melodic laugh. This was elation. She leant into him, angling her face up at his as he looked down at her fondly.

“I wish we could be like this forever…” his voice was low and hushed by her ear, breath brushing the naked curve of her neck.

Summer shivered.

“We are forever, Austin” she smiled, a prickling behind her eyes that foreshadowed a lie. Then, she put a hand on his chest, palm flush against the beating heart beneath his suit jacket. “Until death do us part!” she giggled. Then, she nuzzled into his chest, closed her eyes, and listened to the sound of acoustic guitar melt away.

That’s what they thought then, nothing could break them apart and for a while they were right.

Yet, nothing lasts forever.
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by LanaStorm
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That Was Then, This is Now

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The Parade happended yesterday, there was fanfare, there was Austin Witten merch and lots of speeches. It was a celebration of life but no one really got to see Austin, yesterday was about him today was about the future. The funeral space in Delrose Cemetery's was limited, but a nice plot had been picked out for the hero. Many people opted to celebrate Austin rather than watch him be lowered into the ground and mourn his death, now the funeral itself wasn't private but it wasn't highly advertised. Which may explain the entry of people, curious or nought, story tellers, ex-girlfriends, the odd mechanic and his best friend.

With the day off, Chris was the first one to reach the mouth of the cemetry. Inside laid his history, but joined shorly after would be Cass. Cass Warden, someone who to Chris would stand up showing up to Austin's funeral. While the function occurred further in Summer showed up next with her big shiny wheels and finally Jaxon, the gang (if you could call them that) had arrived at last. Not ideal especially for some who haven't met so long, but it was inevitable - them meeting all again, even if it was at Austin's funeral it might be the last time they see each other.

So, the worked with the cards they were dealt.
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Hidden 3 mos ago → 3 mos ago Post by MaeB
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It was overcast. The clouds a dust sheet laid over the sky like a table cloth. Hazed sunlight hidden behind a curtain, shards of yellowed light pierced through the air, casting shadows across the cemetery. Summer was sat in her beloved Mini, asscheeks fastened to the leather seats, hands gripping the wheel as if she were still trailing the roads. Her eyes, fixed ahead, felt dehydrated as her eyelids scraped across the surface in a dry blink. A breeze ruffled the branches of weeping willows scattered across the graveyard, those unmoving headstones the only part of the landscape unaffected by hearty winds. The Mini’s engine still rumbled softly beneath Summer’s seat, music still seeping absentmindedly from the dash speakers. Summer swallowed, struggling to manage the large lump that had formed in her throat, nestled stubbornly in her jugular. The cemetery car park was reasonably busy, gravel crunching as cars snailed into their chosen spaces. Still, she remained in the drivers seat, focusing on the laboured breaths that heaved at her chest.

“Sometimes people can love one another more than anything, Summer… But they just can’t reach eachother anymore… I don’t think my love can reach you anymore…”


The words, committed to memory, echoed within the chambers of Summer’s mind. It had been a conversation played and replayed over and over when she was younger. If it were a tape recording, the reels would’ve worn away from overuse long ago, the image grainy with age.

“I meant what I said when we promised forever… But you’re so far away, Summer… I can’t do it anymore. It’s too hard. I didn’t think “long distance” would feel like this…”


But what if they’d tried harder? Given it more energy? More effort? Would their relationship have withstood the test of time if they’d protected it more? And then Summer would be grieving the person she really had committed her life to, not the person she thought she would. What was worse? Grieving all that was… Or grieving all that could have been? She pinched the locket that sat on a gold chain around her neck, moving it back and forth across her clavicles, biting down on her bottom lip. The death of a powered person had truly shocked Elysian Heights - but it was the death of Austin that had left Summer feeling truly wrought with disbelief. He’d been so… Alive; His spirit so vibrant and so unwaveringly bright. She could still picture his dimpled laugh, his small smile, light refracted in his eyes… The way he’d brush her hand away dismissively, brandishing his own bank card to buy their morning coffees. Summer could still remember the scent of his neck as he’d lift her into a giant bear hug, chuckling at how her feet dangled comically. How had they got here? Separated by life and death, like a vast expanse of water, there was more distance between the two of them than ever before. Summer gripped her car keys, still in the ignition, and listened to them clatter as she finally killed the engine. The music was abruptly cut off, a silence flooding the car. She took a shaky breath and turned her head slowly to see if anyone else was yet to arrive.

Austin had been very much here, leaving an impression on everyone he came across. The funeral, entirely different to the show of a parade the day before, would be exclusively for those who really knew Austin. School friends, camp friends, college friends, family… Summer wondered who she’d be reunited with today. She had to muster the energy to flick her inner switch, the one that would allow her to partake in small talk with people she hadn’t seen for years. Those memories of Austin that plagued her, weighing on her every move, had to be shelved. She craved the ease of conversation without the knowledge that Austin was no longer here. How would she feel being faced with the tears of others who shared her pain? Could she withstand the stark reality of this Funeral? There was no denying Austin’s death as they collectively watched his coffin being lowered into the ground. She couldn’t kid herself he’d suddenly reappear, the punchline to a sick joke, as that first fistful of dirt was tossed over where he slept eternally. Summer pulled down the sun visor overhead, revealing a small mirror that reflected back a woman with bloodshot eyes and dark circles hidden beneath concealer. She barely recognised that woman staring back. It had finally caught up with her - Reality. And she was wearing her grief, it hung around her, written into the attempts at a smile that would fail to fool anyone.

Cold sweaty hands fumbled with the door handle, popping it open with a huff of effort. Summer swung her legs out of the Mini, her black leather loafers crunching down on gravel. The breeze instantly ruffled her chiffon dress, playing with the ruffles and folds of material like a wind chime. Her twists, half pulled up into a bun on top of her head, were tousled by the wind. It clawed at her cheeks, pinched at her lobes, stung her eyes. Instantly, they watered.

Rising unsteadily to her feet, Summer bumped the car door shut with her hip, wrestling with the keys cupped in uncertain hands to click the lock button. Legs laden with the efforts to move normally and naturally, she began the slow walk to where Austin was being laid to rest. Her inner monologue scolded the visible struggles, a stern voice told her to get it together. Arms folding across her chest, Summer cradled herself as another breeze kicked up around her. Shaking her head as if to rid her of the negative aura surrounding her, Summer focused her gaze straight ahead, scanning the scene for where Austin’s mourners would be gathering.
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by Auragreedia
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Old Faces
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Cass fumbles with her bag and takes a precursory glance at the funeral plot. She recognizes just about everyone, Austin's girlfriend, best friend, and that one guy she shared a lot of classes with--Jaxon, right? Or was it somebody else? Her eyes flick away for a moment. Jaxon was name she hadn't thought of since she moved away, but she remembers liking the guy well enough. Cute--that was the extent of her old thoughts, nothing more.

A tinge of awkwardness hits her body the moment she looks at Summer. "Oh god," she mutters to herself. She was far enough from Summer that she wouldn't hear it. "I'm so sorry." Yeah, she hated Austin, but Summer was his girlfriend. She just lost a loved one. That was probably devastating.

Chris kept his sunglasses on, despite being in doors. He had noticed his eyes were red and puffy when he had checked the mirror in his car. He stood against one wall, with his arms crossed. He had exchanged pleasantries with Austin's loved ones on the way in. It had been a while since they had spoken much. It was pretty obvious that Chris was trying to appear less rattled than he was. To distract himself he set his eyes on the door, watching the attendees trickle in. One of their teachers from high school. The town librarian. Expected faces. Then came a small woman with a dark ponytail; it took a Chris a moment to recognise her. But once he did he didn't hesitate to approach her. He strode up, he walked like a man in his element. Completely sure of himself. The sunglasses hid any cracks in his persona.

"Cass Warden? Is that you? It's been so long."

She loses herself in a few deep breathes until she notices Chris approaching her.

Chris.

That was a face she hadn't seen in a long time. He still looked as confident as ever. "Chris? Hey, yeah," she clears her throat. "We used to have Home Ec. together, right? I remember you. I moved away to the city after graduation, I didn't mean to leave you so suddenly. I mean, me and my family were in a real hurry, a lot of things happened, I really meant to keep in contact, I just--"

That's way too awkward.

"It's... great seeing you again, I'm sorry for not keeping in touch after moving."

Still too awkward. A glint of frustration appears in her eyes as she stumbles her way through conversation. "God, I'm so bad at this stuff. How have you been, though? Did you keep in touch with Austin? What's happened in Elysian since I left?"

Frustrations with herself aside, she was, at the very least, glad to see Chris was doing okay still.
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Hidden 3 mos ago Post by h8k8m8
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Jaxon Nowak
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Jaxon was familiar with the cemetery- his mom was also buried here and his grandparents used to take him to visit her when he was younger. It was strange to see it now, with a growing crowd of people all here to mourn the same person. It wasn't as crazy as a crowd as the parade, but it was obvious that Austin was loved by many even without the fanfare and the hoopla.

As he made his way through the grounds, he could not help but glance over to where his mother's grave was. It has been a long while since he visited her and his grandparents were getting too old to climb the small hill to reach it. He made a mental note to visit her another time so that he could clean her tombstone and leave her fresh flowers. Even though he never met her, he had a feeling she would've liked Austin. Maybe she would have even encouraged Jaxon to befriend the older, kind boy. But that was just a nice story he was spinning in his head.

He joined the rest of the mourners silently. There were a lot of familiar faces from his high school- teachers and classmates alike. And there were some faces that he hasn't seen in a long time. Cass Warden? She was in a lot of his classes but she seemed to have disappear after their graduation. He didn't know much about her, but the same could probably be said about him. They both weren't the type to talk to their peers. Maybe that's why he was so surprised to see her here. And also why seeing her somehow brought him some comfort. He wondered if she also felt like she didn't belong at this funeral. Maybe she also had some sort of connection to Austin that drew her here.

But then he saw her get approached by Chris Miller. He turned his head away, not wanting to eavesdrop on their conversation even though he was a little curious as to what the two could talk about. It was an odd pairing, to say the least. Chris had always been popular and well-liked. But at the end of the day, Elysian Heights was a small town so he supposed everyone knew each other one way or another.

Then he spotted Summer. She was standing alone, with her arms crossed, as if she was trying to brace herself. Her expression was stoic and hard. He felt... not pity, but sad for her. He thought about approaching her, but it wasn't like he could say anything that would make her feel better. Yet, she had asked him if she would see him there earlier in the shop and she looked so alone at the moment. He couldn't just leave her alone like that, could he?

"Just a simple hello," he thought to himself, trying to pool together what little courage he had.

He walked toward her so stiffly, it was basically robotic. As he got closer, he offered a small wave. "Good... to see you again," he managed to say, even though he could feel his heart beating in his ears and his palms were getting sweaty. He really hoped he didn't have to shake anyone's hands anytime soon.

"It's a good turnout. It's, uh, nice to see that Austin has impacted so many people," he said, doing his best to start a conversation.
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Hidden 2 mos ago → 2 mos ago Post by MaeB
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♡ 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓮𝓻 𝓕𝓸𝓻𝓭
𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓔𝔁-𝓖𝓲𝓻𝓵𝓯𝓻𝓲𝓮𝓷𝓭 ♡

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@h8k8m8


Summer’s knees nagged at her as she stood, shoulders hunched against the wind, braids flicking in the breeze all serpentine-like. If anyone noticed, it would be the cool air that she blamed for watery eyes. If anyone noticed, she’d shoot them an easy smile and force a laugh that would seldom convince them. If anyone noticed…

"Good... to see you again.”


Jaxon noticed. He was stood awkwardly as if he wasn’t sure how to hold himself, those soft eyes seemed to focus on the mundane details around them, anything but meeting her sullen gaze. Jaxon waved at her as if it were his first time trying, a meagre lift of his hand, a slight incline of the wrist. Summer’s face felt stiff and she had to consciously force her lips into an upturned attempt at a smile. Her eyes meandered over him as he settled in next to her. The smudges of grease had disappeared from his angular features and the overalls had been swapped out for a fairly fitted suit.

"It's a good turnout. It's, uh, nice to see that Austin has impacted so many people," the words sounded far away. Distant. Hearing his name spoken by the tongue of another was like a bucket of cold water upturned atop her head. Summer deepened the forced smile and nodded in agreement.


She sighed, glancing round at the crowd that had begun to form, a sea of dark attire and polite conversation. Umbrellas gripped in shaky fists, prepared for the emptying of those heavy grey clouds overhead. Slow nods of morbid agreement. Canned laughter erupting from pockets of people who must’ve known Austin, once upon a time. Jaxon was right. There were indeed many faces that littered the Cemetery in Austin’s name. Some recognisable, if altered by time. Others unknown to her. She noticed Cass Warden, as shrewd as ever, chatting to Chris Miller. They lacked the roundness of youth in their faces. They looked different outside of the school corridors. Summer shifted her weight from foot to foot, theatrically shivering as another breeze kicked up.

”I wonder how many of these people are powered,”Summer said absently, combing her eyes over the mourners. ”I wonder if they’re as shocked as I am that someone like Austin just… Isn’t here anymore.”


A pair of girls Summer recognises from the school halls breezed by, their gaze averting from the ex-girlfriend of the deceased. Summer offered them a sympathetic smile, nodding in polite greeting. They returned the favour but didn’t stop. She watched their backs as they walked away, tacking on to another group ahead. Turning back to Jaxon, Summer fixed her wayward braids, pulling them into one large twist and resting them like a scarf over her shoulder.

”Thanks again for the tire change, by the way” she said, her tone light and melodic, disguising her inner discomfort. ”Mini runs like a dream now, thanks to you. Though I must admit, I nearly lost my cool when I heard the pop. Nothing like a flat to really epitomise your state of mind, right? If that ain’t a metaphor for all this, I don’t know what is…”


Trailing off, a soft laugh huffed from her lips. She glanced at Jaxon briefly before turning her attention back to the crowd.

”I really didn’t expect to be stood here”, her voice was quieter now. ”A part of me is expecting Austin to pop out from behind a tree or something, killin’ himself laughing, pointing at us all and mocking us for believing he’s gone…” She chuckled, shaking her head. ”If he weren’t dead already, I’d kill him for that.”
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Hidden 2 mos ago Post by LanaStorm
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All Along The Watch Tower


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Playing in the creek was one thing, but being there all the time seemed to suck up a lot of Austin’s free time.

It wasn’t the first time Cass Warden caught the man there - exercising his powers, from afar, Austin stood in the water, the stream caught between his legs as he forced his hands forward, trying to pick up a large couple hundred pound boulder that had wedged themselves in the earth down the middle of the stream. While somewhat secluded from the subdivision, they both hailed from Austin, and often spent their time here ‘practicing’.

Exactly what that would be would change from day to day, what brought Cass Warden here watching the man was a different story for her to tell entirely.

Cass wanted a quick escape from everything, just some alone time at the creek to recharge and maybe get some homework done. Not that she’d actually do it, but the thought was there. So the moment she saw Austin stanced up in the middle of the creek, trying to move a boulder with nothing but his mind, she felt her mood sour. She wanted a quick out from all the childishness from school, not another dose.

Worst part is that he could probably move it and succeed. He had the power to do so, she’s seen it first hand once or twice, and that only soured her mood more.

It was stupid, it was all stupid. The world seemed to pick people to be heroes at random, it was completely nonsensical to someone as average as her.

She finds herself frozen at the creek’s entry, standing behind a tree or two and a few bushes. Austin didn’t see her, did he? It’d be awkward if he did, and frankly she didn’t want to talk to him for more than a second. Not in this mood.

So the boulder moved, bigger than the ones he carried with his powers before - it took strength, moxie and a bit of panache but the senior went to see it through, and he lifted it into the air before dropping it back into the river - a small tidal wave of water flinging itself towards them in both directions as Austin was swept up back towards Cass Warden - perhaps even herself splashed in the aftermath of the young man’s tomfoolery or chase for super power prowess.

That’s terrifying.
That’s really, really terrifying.

Cass finds herself frozen as the boulder is dropped into the river, and she makes a poor attempt at shielding herself from the splashback. When she walked off to find a peaceful spot to write, she never thought she’d have seen this: a superpowered dumbass levitating boulders and playing in the water.

Straight out of a superhero comic.

Her mouth is halfway opened and she’s tempted to say something, but this is good dirt should Austin ever piss her off. She wrings water from her skirt, pushes her bag aside, and steps off. She could use this, she could use this…

Austin… was actually a little cool.

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Hidden 2 mos ago Post by LanaStorm
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Final Rites

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As the group caught up with one another and reminisced about Austin, they eventually made their way into the depths of the graveyard. A small area had been carved out for where Austin would be laid to rest, last or final rites, as one might say. The ceremony had been conducted in a sense, partially for display for the crowds and officially to be said and done. The private part of the funeral was again scheduled today, and mostly none but a few were allowed in to view Austin. Capacity, parking spaces, environmental pollution and concern - INSURANCE. Alot of things to prevent a gathering.

The public had their fun, now today would be for those who were close (for the most part) with Austin. There were maybe 20 chairs near the casket, which was open. Though not many people were in attendance, only a few for the motley Austin mourners to interact with.

On the obvious was Austin's parents - Erika and Mike Witten, those who knew the pair knew they were loving, caring. Not a perfect couple but one that tackled raising a powered teen with care, love and respect. Hard to come by, now in black, driven with grief they look over their only son today.

Outside of that was the Mayor Jericho Galloway, a man in his late 40s, campaigning against powered people but his tune turned once Austin hit the streets. Maybe a bandwagon jumper to some, but he seemed genuine about the boy, now older and more humbled he sits alone in one of the chairs.

Of course, the man everyone knew was Sheriff Marcus Goodnight was on the scene, standing by Austin's coffin, looking at the man that he once was. His sheriff hat was off (what the heck did they call it again~?) in his hands as he paid his respects, as a lawman tends to do. Finally, a man, not immediately recognizable in a suit sat alone in one of the chairs watching on.
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Hidden 2 mos ago Post by h8k8m8
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Jaxon Nowak
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As Summer forced a smile his way, Jaxon wondered if he made a mistake coming up to her and starting a conversation. As he thought about it some more, he began to doubt himself. She had only asked him if she would see him there, not that she had hoped or wanted to see him there. Maybe she was just being polite earlier and now he was bothering her like the idiot he was.

He was about to murmur a quick goodbye to escape from the awkwardness he caused, when Summer broke the silence.

It was an off-handed question. She probably didn’t mean anything by it, but Jaxon’s face subconsciously tightened. The only person in the world that knew Jaxon was powered was gone now. There was no way Summer would know about his abilities. Unless, Austin might have told her before he passed. He didn’t know what to say so instead of saying anything, he focused his gaze hard on the crowd and gave a mere ”Mm.” as a response. He rubbed his sweaty palms on his dark jeans to dry them before shoving them back in his coat pocket.

Fortunately, Summer changed the subject and Jaxon was able to breathe a little more freely again. ”Yeah, no problem. It was a simple fix, but let me know if you are having any issues.” He tried to follow her gaze as she turned back to face the crowd. She joked morbidly about Austin actually being alive and popping out of nowhere to surprise them, but there was an undeniable sadness in her voice. Part of her probably still hoped that was the case. Hoping for the impossible was always an unbearable burden. If he was wittier a person, he would have a response. Something to lighten the mood and maybe make her smile for real. But he wasn't. So instead, he stood there silently next to her as they continued to watch the other mourners.

Austin's parents were there and the sight of them gutted Jax. Mrs. Witten tried her best to hold her head high so that she could greet and thank the other mourners for coming, but every once in a while, she would seek comfort in Mr. Witten's arms and let out a sob. Mr. Witten's expression was stone-cold, but Jaxon saw the gentleness he used when comforting his wife. He was doing his best to be strong enough for the both of them, yet the redness in his eyes revealed his grief.

"I'm going to pay my respect," he said, letting his voice trail off. What he didn't say aloud, he hoped she understood. "You can come with me if you want. We both don't have to be alone."

He made his way toward the Wittens and gave Mrs. Witten a soft, "Sorry for loss," while he and Mr. Witten exchanged some solemn nods. As he approached the open casket, he felt his leg grow heavy. Why did they have to do an open casket?The idea of seeing Austin's body was almost too much. He couldn't do it. At least, not alone.
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