Potter

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

𝒪𝓁𝒾𝓋𝒾𝒶 and Marek

---

Olivia grabbed a few shots and danced to the music out of tune. For now, she wanted to forget her troubles. She attempted to remain near the foyer, but the crowd kept pushing her. She decided for now she didn’t care; she was lost in her own thoughts and the shots she consumed. She stumbled a few moments after grabbing a shot and caused the waiter to glance backward at her. Olivia ignored him and spun around with careless laughter. The room spun around her and she giggled with fun. It was fun until she bumped into a masked man and glanced at him with an apologetic smile.

”Sorry!” Liv giggled and went to move away, but noticed she had spilled some of her drink. ”Shhhiiit. Let me clean that up for you!” Liv grabbed a towel from a waiter and began to dab at his shirt with laughter. ”These drinks are good!”

As Olivia stumbled and bumped into him, Marek remained still, his gaze fixed on her. His expression, once calm and composed, twisted into a mask of intense fury as their eyes met. When she offered her apologies and attempted to clean up the spill, Marek's lips quirked into a subtle smile beneath his mask.

Unfortunately, Olivia noticed this, but the second her mind focused on it, then it was gone.

”No need to trouble yourself, my dear,” he said smoothly. He gently took the towel from her hand and began to dab at the spill himself.

Olivia watched as he took the towel. Curiously, she tilted her head to the side, mirroring her mask, and watched as he dabbed it up himself.

”Indeed, the drinks here are quite exquisite,” he continued, his tone casual. ”But perhaps you've had your fill for the evening?”

”No way, these drinks and I are friends. Oh by the way I’m Olivia Blackwood. Nice to meet you!” Olivia retorted. She giggled, as if it were the silliest idea on the planet. She set the shot glass on her head and twisted it into a rather clumsy yet elegant curtsy. A voice in the back of her mind pushed her to run away, but the alcohol inside of her numbed it. Liv grabbed the shotglass back into her hand and sipped the remainder of it.

”But I do take your apology to heart and there must be something I can do to resolve the situation better, yes? Your suit musta been expensive!”

A flicker of irritation crossed his feature. ”Olivia Blackwood,” he repeated her name, his tone tinged with a hint of mockery. “An intriguing choice of name you’ve made.”

Olivia watched him speak with her head tilted back to the side. She studied him and set the shot glass back on her head and folded her arms. ”You use a lotta big words.” She replied and giggled. His mockery of her name bewildered her. Why was this man acting hostile? Her heart rate quickened. She instinctively reached to her right side where she’d normally keep her magic book but there was nothing. A shot of panic rose through her.

Marek paused to study her reaction before continuing, “Perhaps we can play a game, Olivia… That would lighten my spirits.” His grin was audible in his tone as he leaned in closer to speak lowly in her ear. “You take off your mask …and I’ll take off mine.”

”A game, huh.” Olivia watched as a waiter came by and took her shot glass from her head. She huffed and grabbed another quickly before he disappeared. Her mind kept yelling at her to run but her mind was drowning from the alcohol. These were some strong drinks… ”That sounds a bit bold, don’t you think?” Olivia laughed as the adrenaline coursed through her. She laughed and removed it from half her face. ”Boo!”

There was a dark glint in his eye as he remained in his position. With deliberate slowness, his hand crept to his mask, lifting it from its place. “That mask is not the one I was speaking of,” he murmured. “You see, there's another mask you are wearing... But no need to take it off. I already see through it.”

Olivia’s smile remained on his face until he began to speak. Then, it crumbled like a cookie in milk. A cold chill rushed through her despite the warmth of the night. ”....” She went to speak, but no sound came out, and her heart rate intensified so loudly it was a wonder nobody could hear it.

Marek's touch sent a chill down her spine as he brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. His voice, barely above a whisper, carried a weight of dread as he uttered a single word in her ear:

“Persephone.”

When he touched her hair, Olivia recoiled, but didn’t move. Her feet were planted to the floor like she was a flower being potted. The color drained from her face. What was going on? Did the magic spell do nothing? The shot glass she had in her hand abruptly fell. The loud shatter of glass caused people to look over with curiosity, but Olivia didn’t notice. Who was this man? How did he know? Why did he know? Was he one of Calbert’s lackeys? That meant….

”....I.. What? I don’t…” Olivia stammered. Now her mind was loud enough to hear her yells. She ignored the broken glass, and turned on her heels and ducked into the crowd. The crowd had split like the red sea with a mix of curiosity, bewilderment and surprise. Olivia quickly disappeared into the crowd.

Charlotte and Fritz disappeared from her mind entirely and she shot outside quickly into the night. The guards who had been chattering near the door watched her abruptly sprint out and called to her, but she ignored them. Her heart rate was intense like a war drum. She took off her godforsaken heels and grabbed her dress so she could run faster.

A mix of blue and orange wandered near Marek. There was a shnort of derision and amusement as the figure passed and then disappeared as quickly as they had come.

Marek returned the mask to his face, a low chuckle escaping his lips.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Olivia

_Persephone

Time: Evening
Location: Damien Estate Masquerade
Interactions: @princessCharlotte
Mentions:
Aesthetic:
braid
owl mask
dress and accessories

---

Olivia swallowed and shook her head. ”I don’t think so.” Olivia’s voice was quiet and barely audible over the ballroom noise. She took several deep breaths to soothe her racing heart. There wasn’t any need to panic although the way he’d approached her, both at the beach and now, held more sinister tones. It was as though he was trying to recognize her. Rejecting his dance had been wise, but Olivia worried he’d continue pursuing her throughout the night. Was the magic spell all for nothing? She gritted her teeth. Fear was overwhelming her. She had a few peaceful days but it was over. Was she meant to never be at peace? Was she meant to live her life on the line? It felt as though her whole life was one big cosmic joke.

”I don’t… I don’t think it was a coincidence, but we can’t continue worrying or it’ll be suspicious. Why don’t we - “ Her voice was cut off as a group of dancers split them up. Liv inhaled and reached for Charlotte when a gloved hand took it instead. She looked up and her eyes widened to the size of the moon. A man with jet black hair, gray eyes and a black and red tuxedo stood before her. His ominous smirk sent shivers down her spine as they locked eyes. Olivia opened her mouth to speak but no sound came out. He grinned as he released Olivia’s hand and swept into the crowd where Charlotte had been. She watched as Asher bumped into Charlotte, then he offered an apology and kissed her hand. Right after, he disappeared into the crowd. He moved like smoke from a fire; appearing one moment and disappearing the next, as if the fire had been extinguished.

If Calbert hadn’t rattled her nerves enough, this sent her overboard. Olivia grasped at her hair with utter panic and urgently tried to move towards Charlotte once more. She shoved a few people out of her way furiously, who turned glare and holler at her, but she ignored them. She grasped her friend’s arm and steered her off the dancefloor. ”Did he say anything to you? Did he do anything?” Olivia pressed urgently. Tears swam in her eyes and she struggled not to let them overwhelm her. ”I think we should go.”

The flashback pulled at her mind. She struggled to ignore it but she was unsuccessful. A starry eyed gaze filled her eyes.

---

Flashback

Time: Late Evening
Location: Sorian Slums

---

Soft footsteps sounded through the quiet streets of the slums. The pitter patter of the rain kept in time with her footsteps like a sadistic drum. Lightning clashed ahead of her, but she didn’t quit running. In fact, she welcomed the storm and wished it could become a monsoon that sucked this dismal world into it like a blackhole. She wondered how anyone else but a street rat like her could be outside, but these assholes kept a tight leash on their food. The backpack on her back continuously slammed against her, but she didn’t pay any mind to it. The treasures inside were worth the pain she’d endure.

With a piece of bread in her mouth, Persephone scowled. Behind her, the voices grew louder. ”Bitch! We’ll find you. You can run but you can’t hide!”

”We’ll see,” she muttered under her breath through a mouthful of bread. God, the warmth from it lifted her spirits. It was like the first Christmas she’d ever received a toy. Her stomach grumbled hungrily, but she didn't dare devour it yet.

As she ran, she briefly caught sight of herself. Her dirty blonde hair was mucked with grime and stuffed into a haphazard braid down her back; it was so thin that if she combed too hard it would begin to fall out. Her face was soaked with moisture from her tears. Her shirt was tattered and had holes in it she kept taping over, and her pants were too big so she’d created a makeshift belt with rope to keep it from falling. The soles of her boots were worn and begging for relief, but she didn’t have time to fix them. The laces were chewed by rats and had teeth marks in them. Seph would be damned if she let them go though; they were one of the last gifts from her family. Around her, the thunder rolled loudly, as if it were her heart.

Dogs barked in the background and she swore. Dogs! Dogs were chasing her now? For fucking bread? They had enough fucking bread! She groaned and turned the corner and began heading back towards the arena. Maybe she could hide in the stands? She didn’t know. All she knew was she had to escape fast. Seph managed to take a bite of the bread now as her stomach growled so loudly that she couldn’t tell if it was thunder or not.

Dizziness swept over her but she ignored it. There wasn’t any time for feeling ill; she had to escape, or she’d be dog chow. Couldn’t she have one win? One? The leeches and dogs behind her were growing louder. Seph panicked and turned left which turned into a dead-end. She took a few steps back and went to jump her way to the rooftops, but the voices were now behind her.

”Well well well, cornered like a rat - fitting aint it, Ed?” The man smirked as she slowly turned around to face her tormentors. The group office laughed as two of them restrained their dogs which barked and snarled at her hungrily. Mentally, she began to recognize him; the voice was familiar, and so was the looks. Was this…? Fury rose inside of her as did bile. This man… If this was him….

Persephone rolled her eyes and stuffed the bread in her pocket. ”Wow, you’re fuckin funny aren’t you? Bitch. The joke’s dumber than your ugly fuckin face. Surprised I’m not dead from staring at it. I bet your mama never loved you huh?”

The man growled at her and cracked his knuckles. ”Funny for a bitch outnumbered with two dogs included.”

”Wow, you can count and talk? I’m proud of you, fuckface.”

The tall blonde with vivid blue eyes stepped forward. This must’ve been the leader who’d screamed at her, because the group took a collective silence and awaited his next words. ”Lots of bravado. Your mama didn’t tell you to hold your tongue did she? We cut it out, you won’t be able to eat that bread and it’ll be in vain. Give us the fuckin bread back or we’ll make you.”

Persephone laughed spitefully, and took a bite of the bread. She spit a piece out towards the leader who glared at her angrily. The dogs howled with anticipation of ripping her to shreds. ”Or we’ll make you. Bullshit. You’re more talk than game, Eddy boy, maybe you should let fuckface talk instead. Or maybe the ginger asshole to your side?”

The more she spoke, the angrier the collective group would become. If she could buy enough time, maybe she could make a plan. Her mind swam with the rising temptation but she tried to ignore it. She couldn’t rely on magic. It ruined her family and her life. Her gaze narrowed as she watched the dogs forcefully be restrained and looked at the two holding them back, including ginger and his brunette companion who resembled an Ogre. Gross.

”Are you two pathetic enough you can’t fight and need the dogs? I should have suspected you’re a bunch of cowards.”

The two men moved with agitation and she turned back to Edward. ”How about you let me have this and we never meet again, yeah?” She smirked as she slowly moved into an offensive stance and began to mentally review a plan of action. This once, she’d use magic, this once.

While her left hand moved to her bread pocket, the right hand moved to her right side and made contact with an unknown object. She reached into her head as if to scratch it, then ripped out a lock of hair, dropped it and then whispered, ”Sine dolore.” A pleasant sensation overcame her, erasing any fatigue and numbing the ache all over her body. She spitefully took a bite of bread and then swallowed it.

”Whaddya touchin in your pocket, eh? We can pickpocket her dead body when we’re done, right?” He smirked at Edward who nodded and moved forward.

”You can do whatever the fuck you want with her but first, we get our food back, Asher.”

Seph laughed gleefully as they shuffled and took an offensive stance. ”Aww, five against one. I like my odds, gentlemen.” She mockingly bowed to them and grinned as she stood up. This only aggravated them, and the dogs continued to whine.

”But I like my fuckin bread better.” She beckoned Edward first as she prepared the next spell. ”Wanna be a good boy and come at me and show your betas what a strong alpha boy you are?”

There was a collective ooh from the group. Seph smiled sweetly and beckoned him again mockingly.

Edward glared at her; he knew he couldn't reject it and look as strong, so he smiled and shook his head. ”If you really wanna get your ass beat, I’ll oblige.”

”You know what obliged means? Congratulations - you don’t need a dictionary for that but what about this: Relaxatio.”

She grinned as the dogs began to fall silent and cease their endless whining and growling. They laid down and began to pant joyfully. Edward opened his mouth to respond, but confusion swept over his face instead. Ginger and Ogre next to him stared incredulously at their now silent and blissful companions. Asher scowled with rage. Seph cackled at their bewilderment and ignored the scent of iron in her nostrils. ”So much for your canine protection!”

”YOU BITCH! What did you DO?” Asher yelled furiously and charged at her, which was exactly what Seph hoped he would do. She sidestepped him and kicked his knee with all her might and sent him toppling down. She grabbed him by his hair and rammed him face first into the brickwall. There was a gut-wrenching crack as she successfully broke a bone; Asher screamed in pain. Blood began pouring from his face as he recoiled in terror and pain.

”I will not be your toy!” Persephone grabbed his head again and rammed it a second time, and knocked him unconscious. ”That’s for Max!” She turned to shove him into the oncoming ginger who could do nothing to dodge it. Asher was a tall and lumbering man. Seph tossed her backpack behind her now, knowing they were too focused on fighting her for it.

The two of them collided and both of them fell to the ground. As Seph attempted to jump out of the way, the Ogre grabbed her hair and punched her in the gut. She gasped as the wind was knocked out of her, and tears sprang to her eyes and clouded her vision. She stumbled and lost her balance, but the Ogre grabbed her by her hair and she yelped. She could feel the effects of being punched, but none of it caused her any sensation.

She turned and grabbed him by the scruff of his shirt and spat in his face. Shocked, he cried out and moved away, so Persephone quickly kicked him in the groin which caused him to fall back in agony. She didn’t stop there either; she jumped on his stomach - Ogre now screamed in agony and curled up on his side, successfully defeated. She sensed the incoming punch and turned to catch it from ginger who was now up and yelling in rage and - Seph could sense, fear. He had not expected such a fight from a scrawny young girl. She turned and furiously faced him as blood poured from her face and her right eye began to swell. Breathing fast, she spat out blood and a tooth to her side and raised her fists.

”You want more, bitch? Try me.” Her voice was defiant as ever, despite the breathlessness. He glared at her and shook his head.

”I dunno what kinda shit you just pulled but I ain’t letting you walk away.” He moved to punch her and she ducked underneath it and returned the gesture to his chin. He yelled out and kicked at her wildly which hit her in her groin and caused her to drop. She swore now as he kicked her in the face and then again on her side. Blinded, it took her several moments to recuperate. In the fray, her hands felt something cool and metallic; she turned to find a metal trash can lid. With blurred vision, she raised it and blocked his incoming attack; then swept his legs out from underneath him and watched him fall. As he did, she jolted up and smacked him in the head. He was knocked him unconscious as well.

This left her and Edward. She glared at him and spat out more blood and now bile. ”Run.” She commanded, raising her fists once more. ”Or I’ll embarrass you next.” Though her voice was weak, she gestured to the other three. ”Be my guest if you wanna end up like ‘em, coward. Your gang has had its fun in town but that’s coming to an end if you don’t fuck off. Bold of you to take five of your shitty men to corner little old me for some fuckin food.”

Edward said nothing and allowed her to speak, then chuckled with derision. ”Why, witch? I can watch you burn at the stake instead and we can own this part of town - I call that a win-win situation.”

Her blood ran cold and her glare at him began to falter. She shook her head and smirked back, breathing heavily. ”What?” Then she began to laugh and waved him off as if it were a joke. ”Nobody’ll believe your gang of misfits. Fuck you. You got your ass handed to you by a street rat.” Her heart began to hammer as she began to mentally prepare a third spell in case. He loomed towards her, and she began to circle him like a shark with dark laughter. ”If you know I’m a witch then you know my fighting skills aren’t my only talent, but I’m happy to show you both expertise.”

He glared at her, frustrated by her defiance, and angered by the fallen comrades and dogs that lay strewn in the alleway. ”Not if I silence you, little bitch.”

Seph mockingly laughed at him and beckoned him forward. ”Come and get me!” She stepped forward and avoided the punch; then ducked after the next punch. She punched him in the midriff, ducked, and then returned another punch, this time to his jawline. The kick he registered to her stomach caused her to recoil but remained standing; then spring forward lightly and punch him again; repeating the steps until she had single handedly taken him down. When he had finally fallen, Seph limped over to him and glared down at him. For good measure, she picked up the trash can lid and held it in front of her stomach protectively.

”Whose the little bitch now?” She watched as he struggled to remain conscious, awe-inspired and enraged. She spat the blood and bile into his face and smacked him with the trash can lid - this way the nail in the coffin as he struggled to sit up and fight back., but she’d had enough. ”Goodnight. Tell your friends you lost to me. Thanks for the bread and other treasures, by the way!” Seph watched his eyelids flutter close finally and glanced around the alleyway. The dogs remained blissfully unaware of the violence that had occurred. She watched them roll onto their bellies and snorted with laughter and then winced.

For good measure, she whispered, ”Invisio.” She limped over to the backpack, and grimaced as she wrapped her arms through it. Slowly she left the alleway, blood trickling down her face, and struggled to breathe as quietly as possible. In and out, slowly, one breath at a time. Nausea rose inside of her, and she had to keep stopping to become sick.

Finally, the storm began to clear, and now she could see. After what seemed like an eternity, Persephone entered the Tough Tavern. Some of the patrons glanced at the door opening by what seemed like itself, and then slowly shut.

Maxine's curly red hair bounced into view as she laughed at the patrons. ”Silly door, it opens by itself by the wind, ya? Storm was brewing roughly. Guess the wind hasn’t died.” She shut it and listened closely, and heard Seph's ragged breaths. To muffle the noise, she clapped loudly for the patrons. ”Free drinks for the inconvenience!” There was confused cheering but nobody seemed to hear Perspehone who headed upstairs with difficulty. Once inside, she collapsed onto the floor, fully visible now, and dropped the backpack from her back. It clattered to her side noisily. The room spun around her, she was sure this was the end.

The door shut then opened quickly; Maxine inhaled at the sight of her, then slowly began to move her out of the way of the doorframe. Seph laid there limply as the effects of all the magic began to slowly overwhelm her. Max carried her gently to the bed and began to tend to her wounds. ”Seph! Oh my Gods. What happened? Why are you always covered in blood?”

Persephone chuckled lightly and shut her eyes. It helped stop the room from spinning sickeningly. ”You should see the others.” At the look of panic, she laughed and then recoiled in pain and coughed up blood. This did not ease her maiden’s fear, but she waved her off so she could continue once she’d finished. ”Ed’s gang.”

At this, her eyes widened and horror filled her. “WHAT?”

”Don’t worry, I won. Go look at the bag if you wanna keep on yellin,” Max scrutinized her, then headed over to the bag. She rifled around then slowly pulled out the treasure Seph had claimed. She shook her head at the bread, butter, and other food items, then gasped in shock as she pulled out a large coral necklace with an “M” on it, two rings, and a teddy bear. Max whirled around to face her.

“What - oh my Gods - you got it back? All of it?” Max’s eyes filled with tears and she came over to gently hug her friend.

Persephone waved her off and curled up in pain. ”You're welcome.” She winced and she paled sickly.

”Hold on. Don’t move.” Max joked. Seph snorted with derision and then bit her tongue to keep from yelling in pain. Maxine quickly disappeared out of the room. Seph would have laughed if the pain wasn’t becoming overwhelming. Max promptly returned and helped her eat a small stash of pudding, then took the pain and sleep pills and helped her get comfortable in bed.

”Rest. Do not get out of bed. I’ll have Helga lock the door and won’t let anyone but us inside. If you need me, ring the bell beside you. And yes, Buttercup’s safe in the stable. She’s all fed.” Seph nodded and then soon fell unconscious against the bed. The last thing she saw was Max turning off the lights and locking the door from the inside behind her.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: Flying above The Righteous Tern
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn ❄
Mentions: @Lava Alckon Bardulf ❄ @FunnyGuy Mister Luum ❄ @Tae Brigette ❄ @Pink Khione Zeva
Equipment: Small backpack, two knives, bow and arrow, rations, water flask, hygiene products, polearm, outfit

Rue went to reply but the words were lost in her throat. She nodded in agreement when Bowyn continued to speak. ”Me too,” Rue replied and looked over her shoulder to smile at him so he didn’t worry if he had started.

”I can’t see much either, but it would be nice to have more allies. I doubt it’s Luums, though who knows with him.” Rue contemplated the scenario and continued. ”Let’s hope it’s on our side.” She had a neutral stance on them; they were interesting to her. Like all species, she was wary of them as well. Her curiosity with the way they lived and behaved was inexplicable. Rue let out a soft smile.

”Maybe they’ll be a great ally. All we can do is hope for the best. If not, I think there’s enough of us to defend Bardulf.” Rue glanced over at Starfire and patted her neck. The Pegasus whinnied loudly with joy and caused Rue to laugh. Soaring in the skies with Bowyn and Starfire was relaxing and fun, especially over the sea which she thought she would never see as a young fae growing up. The salt breeze against her face and the wind her hair and wings was worth the struggles she’d endured to come this far; especially with someone as handsome and loyal as Bowyn. She reached over and took his hand gently. ”I wish we could stay up here forever, away from the war, but we’ve risked too much to leave it now.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Olivia

_Persephone

Time: Evening
Location: Damien Estate Masquerade
Interactions: @princessCharlotte
Aesthetic:
braid
owl mask
dress and accessories

---

All the noise around Olivia faded out to silence. What was going on? What happened? Did he recognize her? Was her cover blown by something? Had she done something wrong to raise suspicion? Olivia’s skin paled, and sweat began forming around her forehead and in her palms. Was it wrong to come here? Reckless, yes but wrong? What if she had stayed away? What if she endangered everyone? The questions raced through her mind and she oddly didn’t feel herself being buffered by the crowd; it was as if time stood still and the ballroom had ceased to exist. The room tilted around her. She he hadn’t realized she’d been holding her breath, afraid to let it out in case it made reality anymore scarier.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

?????

---

A muscular and lithe figure with dark hair and tiger-colored eyes wandered through the crowd. They trailed another, yet kept their distance. With a dark dress and mask obscuring their face and eyes, it was impossible to make out any details. Their gaze flitted around like a hummingbird as they surveyed the scenario. The laughter and chatter, joyous and drunken, was only background noise. The individual walked silently amongst the crowd before disappearing into the shadows. From here, they had the best vantage point to keep an eye on everyone.

Their gaze locked onto their target and watched the exchange with a veiled smirk. For a moment it lingered, as they made eye contact then moved away quickly. The individual locked their gaze onto another surrounded by a large group. A flicker of emotions coursed through the person, and then nothing. It was as if the emotions had never existed.

With a sigh, they idled against the wall, obscured by the dancers and shadows. Their gaze however, would lock momentarily onto another, and then flicker away. If only he knew, but it would be for the best if they did not. Despite what they felt, it was drowned by a bottle of alcohol in a flask hidden in their pocket. When that one was emptied, it was soon replenished by another for someone with an unnaturally high tolerance.

Some secrets were best kept only that - secrets, and nothing more. The figure remained invisible to most, but for those who mattered, they were visible.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: Flying above The Righteous Tern
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn ❄
Mentions: @Lava Alckon Bardulf ❄ @FunnyGuy Mister Luum ❄ @Tae Brigette ❄ @Pink Khione Zeva
Equipment: Small backpack, two knives, bow and arrow, rations, water flask, hygiene products, polearm, outfit

Rue giggled at his mention of Raze. The sneaky and mischievous thievery of the stoat amused her. His pat on Starfire’s neck as an addition of being protected earned him a loud whinny of agreement. She giggled at the interaction.

”He is a great human, and I am so glad we have him. He’s braver than most of Avalia who doesn’t want to make a difference or is too scared.” Rue replied, bitterness entering her voice. ”Though I can understand their reasoning, I do wish more Avalians would rise up. Bardulf didn’t deserve to nearly die on Earth so I’m glad we saved him, and I will do whatever in my power to protect him too.”

Rue chuckled when Bowyn suggested Luum and Bridget being a thing. ”They are an odd pair and she seems to follow him like a puppy. Unfortunately, the light reveals all, and nobody can hide forever I would think. I hope she’s not… One of them.” Rue’s voice hushed, despite it being only them and their animal companions.

The idea of slavery entered her mind and she shuddered, unable to speak it out loud. Rue took several deep breaths to cease the flashbacks and turned back to him. With a steadier voice and heart, Rue glanced down at the ship.

”I believe we have a new face,” Her voice became dry as she peered down at the main deck. ”I don’t want to jump quite yet, but I’m going to continue observing from afar. Luum’s down there, for whatever he’s worth.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Olivia

_Persephone

Time: Evening
Location: Damien Estate Masquerade
Interactions: @princess Mr. Narcissist
Mentions: @Helo Leo; @princessCharlotte, @samreaper Kaz, & @JJ Doe Fritz/Peter
Aesthetic:
braid
owl mask
dress and accessories

---

Watching as Peter twirled her around and then left to distract the blue knight she bit her lip. A heist - what were they planning? She looked over at Charlotte's group; it was big, but nonetheless, there was strength in numbers right? Olivia strode forward and ignored the crowd around her as if they were nothing more than dung beetles. Her gaze flickered around as she moved towards them in hopes of avoiding Calbert. She could feel his eyes on her wherever she went; it was like she was a mouse being hunted by a hawk. She gritted her teeth and pushed it out of her mind. There wasn’t any way she’d let him ruin her night - again.

Olivia was now close enough to the group that she could almost make out what they were saying. A sudden ringing in her ears assaulted her and she gripped her head with pain. The familiar ringing caused her to scowl and she shook her head. There was no reason for this to act up now. Desperation and frustration, two feelings she hated, were beginning to creep up again. At the same time, the dance became more lively, and people flocked to the dance floor from the food tables. With deep breaths, Olivia continued towards the group, but a pair of dancers blocked and shuffled her unwittingly aside. She glared at them reproachfully, but the mask hid most of it.

”Stupid nobles,” Olivia hissed under her breath. She moved forward again, but a boisterous animal-masked group blocked her path. Why was this so hard? Was the world trying to prevent her from seeing her friends? ”Really!” She growled. Olivia tried to side-step and was halfway towards Charlotte when a black-cat masked woman spilled her drink onto her. Olivia inhaled sharply at the sudden cold liquid and looked up with fury. This dress… This dress was expensive, and Charlotte had paid for it, which was something she could never repay. Infuriated, Olivia glared at her, but the woman drunkenly moved away with laughter to meet her date - ironically, a dog. Though I admire the costume, you’re on my shitlist lady.

Finally, she was ten yards away. The ringing filled her ears, but she ignored it, and resisted the urge to use magic to part the sea. She had to stop. She couldn’t use it; not here. Olivia dug her nails into her palms and scowled as she began to reach them. ”Charlotte!” She called loudly. Olivia waved with a smile when another individual came out of seemingly nowhere, and blocked her path.

The imposing figure stood before her, adorned in regal black and gold attire that exuded his preferred aura of power and elegance. His towering frame cast a foreboding presence, amplified by the sinister horned mask that shrouded his features, reminiscent of a malevolent being from the darkest depths of the underworld. He peered down at her with a gaze that normally sent chills down the back of those he looked upon.

Olivia gulped when the shadowy figure emerged in front of her. Her gaze slowly went from his chest to his face and caused her heart rate to quicken. Olivia met the eyes of the Devil himself - Count Damien. Her mouth went dry and she was silent. What kind of hell did he have in store for them today?

"You know, despite the anonymity these masks have provided my guests.. " He began slowly, taking his time to analyze her every movement, his voice dripping with honeyed venom, "I have been able to discern the identities of most gracing our presence tonight... Yet you." He paused dramatically, the smile forming under his mask evident in his eyes, "You... You remain an enigma to me, my dear... You are a surprise awaiting my unraveling."

Oh hell no, this man doesn’t have anything better to do?

His voice indeed caused the hairs on the back of her neck to tingle. However, she noticed him analyzing her every moment, and glanced away. Her mind screamed for her to run, yet she remained rooted to the spot. His large figure blocked her friends from view. She swallowed, and then forced herself to meet his gaze. It was as if she were staring at Satan himself. Was he the devil reincarnated? It made sense.

”Well, I guess that's an unfortunate request for you then isn’t it?” Olivia inquired. ”A piece to a puzzle you wish to complete, but I regret to inform you that I’m uninterested.” She glanced at him and folded her hands neatly and forced a half-smile back at him.

Olivia glanced away as her courage briefly failed her and attempted to side-step him. ”As the magnificent…” her voice trailed off while she struggled not to be snide. ”...Owner of this most wondrous ball, I dare say you must have more important affairs to attend to, yes? A man as esteemed as you mustn’t want to be dealing with a young adult, no?” Her voice this time remained steadier, but shook slightly, as she struggled to ignore the voices insisting she use magic; but not here, not now.

He smiled simply as he observed her behavior, letting her speak her piece. "...My apologies if I've caused any consternation," he smoothly interjected, his tone shifting to disarming in an instant, "I assure you, my dear, I simply wish to acquaint myself with all the esteemed guests in attendance tonight… Assuming you know my name, it’s only fair the lady presents hers so I can refer to her appropriately." He presented her with a bow nonetheless and a warm smile.

Olivia became impassive while he spoke. His honeyed words sounded well, but she knew deep down they were a folly. She stared at him with a quirked eyebrow. His intimidating aura caused her muscles to stiffen, and her quickened heart rate caused her to have sweaty palms. Instead of replying, Olivia waited for him to continue his bullshit. Meanwhile, her mind raced for an exit, anyway to end this conversation on a good note.

He then extended a gloved hand towards her with an air of charm, "Would you do me the honor of joining me for a dance?" he added, his words laced with calculated sweetness.

His extended hand threw her off guard and she blinked. His honeyed venom only caused her skin to crawl. How disgusting was he? Rhetorical question, there was no way to measure his bullshit.

”No thank you.” Olivia replied with a sweet smile and batted her eyelashes sickeningly sweet. ”You see, I must attend to my dates. Thank you for your offer. Let’s take a raincheck. Besides, you have more important things to be doing don’t you?”

Olivia tried again to sidestep him and catch Cassius’s gaze, unsure if the newfound bastard would help or not. Was he to be trusted? Time would tell. As her eyes flickered towards Charlotte, she noticed a subtle widening before they locked onto Olivia's own.

Calbert scrutinized her with a predatory gaze, the smirk under his mask revealing a hint of amusement. He finally said after a long pause, “You enjoy your night, my dear. …It was ever so lovely to converse with you.” As he stepped away from Olivia and let himself disappear back into the crowd, he kept an eye on her, even as another individual brushed shoulders with him and began to whisper in his ear.

Avalia

Time: Evening
Location: Flying above The Righteous Tern
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn ❄ @Lava Alckon Bardulf ❄ @FunnyGuy Mister Luum ❄ @Tae Brigette ❄ @Pink Khione Zeva
Equipment: Small backpack, two knives, bow and arrow, rations, water flask, hygiene products, polearm, outfit

Rue nodded. She agreed he was strange and there was indeed something off and could feel it in her gut. Nonetheless, there wasn’t much she could do. ”I agree and sadly, I can’t put my finger on why I feel this way as well. I just… I just do. I guess my gut’s hyperactive due to the arena. I’m more wary than I used to be of others.” Rue considered what else he said, and gleaned over her shoulder at him. ”I’ll protect you, and Bardulf, always.” Starfire whinnied in agreement and she laughed. ”Guess she will too. That makes two.”

When the topic turned to Zeva, she exhaled loudly. ”She’s too young to be involved. If she has a family, I then feel bad. She should be back with them and not with us. I have an eye on them all, really. Poor Bardulf, he didn’t ask to be here either.” Rue flapped her wings to continue her momentum and stared forward.

”That woman’s an oddity. There’s something going on with her and Luum, I can feel it. All secrets come to light eventually, right?”

Rue shook her head. It felt like old times with Bowyn and her flying together and it was something she would cherish forever.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Olivia

_Persephone

Time: Evening
Location: Damien Estate Masquerade
Interactions: @JJ Doe Peter
Mentions: @Helo Leo; @princessCharlotte, @samreaper Kaz, & [JJ Doe] Fritz
Aesthetic:
braid
owl mask
dress and accessories

---

Olivia grinned at Peter’s remarks. He was right about the dancing - it looked pitiful. How was that enjoyable? She inhaled with shock as their dance became unpredictable and energetic. Despite this, she laughed and began to feel as though she could truly live and be happy.

That is, until Peter spun around and caught someone’s eye. Once she was turned, she noticed Count Fritz accompanied by Charlotte, a suspicious looking butler, Cassius, and Leo the Lion. Then her gaze wandered to Peter who had let go and broke into a random jig. Eyebrows knitted together, Olivia watched as he and Fritz seemed to communicate telepathically. The confusion and unknown crept in and her stomach churned into a knot. Something was occurring, because he jabbed a finger in Kaz’s direction, and then glanced in her direction.

Bewildered, Olivia glanced around. What was their plan? She withheld a sigh, because right after then Peter drew her in closer. Her heart skipped a few beats and she gulped nervously. ”I, oh, um,” Olivia stammered, ”No… Not really. Our area used to have parties, but it was nothing special. My mother tried teaching me stuff but I wasn’t interested.” She smiled softly, but couldn’t hide the worry floating in her eyes. ”That’s a good place to learn.” She bit her lip and looked him in the eyes. ”What’s going on?”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Damien Estate
Attire:
☼ Crown
☼ Mask
☼ Hairstyle
☼ Dress
☼ Shoes
Interactions:
Mentions: @Rodiak Zarai

Layla glowered as she watched Zarai’s lithe frame disappear into the crowd. She crossed her arms and watched the dancers flowing elegantly. Was it her fault? Was she doomed to be alone? What had she done to upset little red? Had she eaten too loudly? She had a weakness for crab legs. Layla’s mind raced with questions. Though outwardly she looked impassive, a fire burned inside of her. She would not dwell on these thoughts anymore… Her heart began pounding like a drum, as if she were on death row, and it was the last thing she’d hear.

Since she sat alone, she was able to scrutinize the dancers ahead of her. She saw the pathetic butterfly with a butler and another man beside her. Her eye roll could not be suppressed and she looked away before a string of insults could be formed. Her gaze settled on an awkward pair; a red haired girl with an owl mask dancing with a man and a weasel mask. The irony of their costumes caused her to chuckle derisively. Then, her gaze fell on her younger sister dancing with a woman? Her eyebrows rose as she watched with curiosity. Maybe her sister would enjoy herself better than she would at this mindless ball. What would the guards say? The others? She barely noticed the immense butterflies beginning to form inside of her.

With a sigh, Layla stood up and ignored everyone else beside her. While standing, a familiar ringing in her ears caused her to scowl. The ballroom quieted down and she flinched. Ali, who remained nearby but being mindful of her privacy, immediately came to her side.

”What is it? Are you okay?”

”I’m fine.” Layla retorted before she could think. The last thing she wanted was for people to see her right now. Unfortunately, the ballroom was packed so this was not an option.

The pain intensified and she bit her tongue hard - hard enough to cause blood to form. She scowled with fury and annoyance. Here, of all places? Why? Did the Gods truly hate her?

The ballroom began to tilt, and she stumbled as she tried to move away. Ali’s arm around her steadied her, which only infuriated her and caused her stomach to clench. Did he have to? In public? Layla gritted her teeth and through her hazy vision, noticed the ballroom backdoors. She strode towards it and heard a loud noise distantly. Who was breathing so obnoxiously? The questions remained unanswered. Layla didn’t notice, but she knocked someone out of her way, but couldn’t tell who it had been. A few heads now turned their way, and Layla distantly could hear people muttering like annoying little insects.

With a scowl she made it to the outdoors where she hurled herself out of sight and collapsed onto the ground. Behind her, Ali and a few of her other guards, followed.