[center][h1][color=#85aabd]Wystan[/color], [color=E77298]Anastasia[/color] & [color=9DCC68]Ezra[/color][/h1]
[color=#85aabd]Mentions[/color]: [@Silverpaw] Wulfric [@Inertia] Auguste [@Helo] Callum[/center]
[hr]

[center][color=E77298]“Cake, cakeee, cakeeee!”[/color][/center]

Anastasia pleasantly sung as she took Wystan’s hand and eagerly began leading him over to the dessert table. It was easy to keep up a facade of her energetic self. Behind that sweet song of hers was a mess of emotions. If she were to reveal such a thing, it would cause the watchdog to worry. Thus, she had decided she’d just try to pretend the cocktail of fear and longing was simply not there. Avoiding her issues was essentially a hobby of hers, so it was easy enough for her to shove them into the back of her mind for now. 

The sight of beautiful cakes was a tremendous help. [color=E77298][i]Oh you glorious, beautiful distraction.[/i][/color] She thought with adoration as she put her hands behind her back and leaned over to admire the view. 

Following closely behind, Wystan had resumed his ever-observant state with increased vigilance since the end of the second dance. Everyone would understandably be tired, and thus such a time was perfect for unsavory encounters to occur. The watchdog subsequently kept a close surveillance on the various pairings that dispersed from the dancefloor, where they were each headed, and the gaps in between the crowd to gain sight on the idle folk within the ballroom. Entrances and possible exits were swept over with familiar ease, noting their locations and that they were free from obstructions, before moving on to confirm all the positions of all the nobles he’d gathered intel on. First the Caesonians, the Varians, and then the guests from Alidasht. All seemed to be well within view, save for the few by the balcony. Curious. Nothing happened beyond there to alert the crowd, but still something to note.

Lastly, where the Danroses were situated. Princess Anastasia, by his side. Prince Wulfric, leaving the dancefloor with Shehzadi Mayet. Prince Callum, departing from the middle with Riona. Lastly, Prince Auguste, evidently approaching soon after his concluding chat with an unknown female character– an observation duly acknowledged. Near contact with the second prince meant she was someone he would need to look into later.

With all seemingly in order, Wystan moved his watchful gaze over the dessert table to carefully survey the food. [color=#85aabd]”Quickly now, they might run away.”[/color] He smiled at Anastasia, before moving to her side. It was in his plan to taste any of the food she chose before her– an additional yet highly important precautionary measure that was necessary for gatherings with this number of attendants.

Anastasia had giggled at Wystan’s words and replied playfully,  [color=E77298]”I am now imagining the cakes growing little legs then hopping off the table. Moments later those sweet babies would be lost in the crowd… What a tragedy that would be. ”[/color] Before Wystan would be able to reply, a voice would startle them.

Ezra had stayed near his table during the dances. Silently he had seethed as he watched his girl and this [i]pathetic and ugly looking dog[/i], dancing. He had made sure to avert his gaze whenever the dog faced him so he wouldn’t know. Once or twice, however, he had managed a mischievous smirk to dance across his face. It was his luck now that the dances were ending that he could showcase his baked goods. Ezra was about to stand up and introduced himself to King Edin - and noticed he had … other plans. Rolling his eyes, Ezra moved over to the table to sulk. However, fortune had paid him a visit: the lady and her pathetic dog were coming over. Ezra stood for a moment, frozen, but her singing voice raced through his head, and would live rent-free. He grinned as they approached, giddy like a child on Christmas. 

[color=9DCC68]”Welcome!”[/color] He greeted them cordially as he bowed to them both, but faced Anastasia more. He grinned as he straightened up and met the beautiful girl’s gaze. For a moment his breath hitched; then he remembered his place and relaxed. It was now or never. Five years of hard work would finally pay off. [color=9DCC68]”I hear you’re interested in the cake. I own the bakery on Fifth street. I baked all of this.”[/color] He gestured to the numerous cakes, all different flavors; there was chocolate, vanilla, strawberry shortcake and red velvet. He’d made cupcakes too. Ezra smiled as he continued: [color=9DCC68]”What would the princess like?”[/color] He took her hand and politely kissed it, ignoring Wystan.

Anastasia met the gaze of the happy man, giving him a warm smile as he welcomed them. It was always exciting to talk to someone new. However, the more she took in the sight of this man, the more she felt uneasy. He was familiar somehow… She hadn’t noticed her hand twitch in Wystan’s direction as she had contemplated it for only a moment. But then she recalled her emotions were a little on the heightened side right now and she was most likely being silly.

 [color=E77298][i]I shouldn’t be rude to a baker this talented. His stuff looks so yummy that I am probably going to be visiting his bakery. Gotta be on good terms with him! [/i][/color] Her gaze followed his gesture to each cake, which she found herself then distracted by the wondrous sights.  [color=E77298]“Ooooo woooweee…These are amazing. Look at those frosting flowers…”[/color] 

[i]Then he took her hand and kissed it.[/i]

She blinked in surprise. Her mind had been so zoned in on the cakes that it had caught her off guard. After a pause, Anastasia giggled, [color=E77298]“You’re quite the charmer, aren’t you? … Strawberry shortcake for sure!”[/color] 

Besides Anastasia, Wystan remained calm and absolute. While there was truly no need to have his own hand kissed, the bodyguard took note of the baker’s minute gestures and general demeanor towards their collective presence. The man’s introduction comprised of a rather focused, yet affable greeting towards the princess (as proper) and complete disregard for himself as a retainer - a common attitude that suggested an inclination to either quickly cozy up to nobility, stay indifferent to servants, or both. In time, however, it became clear to Wystan that the man was fond of the princess, a detail the watchdog was able to confirm by observing the unmistakable look in his eyes as he spoke to Anastasia. An uncomfortable, yet minor detail for now, but one he would stay mindful of for future reference as he simply nodded in respect to the dessert spread. 

[color=9DCC68]”Not as charming as these delights are.”[/color] He grinned in response. Ezra cut her a piece of the strawberry shortcake, placed it on a lacy plate, and handed it to her. Remaining calm, Ezra glanced this time at Wystan. He studied him carefully while Anna was distracted by the cake. The way the man studied him while whatever miniature brain cells he had, worked in overdrive, told Ezra enough about him. 

For now he’d be meticulous; five years of hard work would not go out the window. Besides, there were others he had to be wary of too. He’d have to remember to ask Torie to find out more about this… dog.  Ezra despised dogs…. But soon this one would be without its leash. [color=9DCC68]”And what would you like, sir?”[/color] His voice was calm and sincere as he met his gaze for a moment. There was nothing about Ezra’s expression or body language that portrayed animosity. 

Wystan’s eyes were narrowly pinned to the cake that landed too quickly in the princess’ hands and missed the baker’s question. [color=#85aabd]"Please excuse me, Your Highness, I will need to taste it first.”[/color] [i]As per standard procedure.[/i] The bodyguard began to reach for his own fork.

Anastasia grinned, slightly biting her bottom lip in focus as she took up the fork he was reaching for. She then scavenged up a generous piece of her cake and faced Wystan. Her other hand went under hers to avoid crumbs spilling on him as she moved it towards his mouth,  [color=E77298]“Here you gooo, darling!”[/color] 

[color=#85aabd]”...”[/color] Wystan uncharacteristically blinked his eyes wide in surprise. A hard blush threatened to creep up on him then, so in quiet alarm, he forced himself to focus solely on the feel and texture of the cake. Because surely he must have misheard her. Or perhaps it was a slip of the tongue - it was a rather common nickname she used to refer to other people, after all. [color=#85aabd]”T-thank you, Your Highness. [i]Ahem[/i].”[/color] The watchdog cleared his throat lightly then gave her a nod in gratitude to do all of three things: compose himself, signal his thanks, and confirm that the cake was indeed not poisoned. Then, he turned to the baker. [color=#85aabd]”...It is quite good, sir.”[/color]

The scenario before him went from being a dream, to a nightmare, in the span of five seconds. Panic settled in. Did she like this dog? Was she that dense? A cold sweat formed over him. While the duo were distracted, Ezra stared hopelessly. His jaw nearly dropped, but he regained control of his muscles. There were too many people here to react this way. He simply put his hands in his pockets to clench his fists. When the dog finally digested the precious cake he’d meant to give to Anna, Ezra’s expression was calm and collected. There wasn’t any sign of any anger or animosity. [color=9DCC68]”I am delighted to hear that!”[/color] He grinned at them both and bowed cordially. When he straightened up, his eyes were on Anastasia. 

[color=9DCC68]”Would this miss be allowed to try a piece now? She seemed pretty excited and I wouldn’t want to burst her bubble.”[/color] He smirked as he faced Wystan now. An opponent… An annoying and challenging one, but an [i]obstacle[/i] that would be removed. He would have to ask Torie for another favor; the bitch owed him anyway….. [color=9DCC68]”I’d be delighted if you tried more of my cakes! They shouldn’t go to waste, right?”[/color] He inclined his head to Anna while glancing between them both. 

[color=E77298]”Oh yes! Here I go!”[/color] Anastasia took a bite next and her eyes flashed with intensity. Her expression lit up as she chewed it and she looked at Ezra, [color=E77298]”What! No way! This is the best cake I’ve ever had!”[/color] If he had gone to all this work, she certainly couldn’t waste his amazing cakes. She cut herself a slice of the chocolate to taste that as well, layering it on top of another piece. [color=E77298]”Mmm, mm, mmm!”[/color] She had the fork still in her mouth, smiling with her eyes closed as she swayed slightly in a happy dance.

Ezra grinned now, his panic lowering. She enjoyed the cakes and even had more. He stifled his laughter and passed it as a cough. [color=9DCC68]”Oh my goodness. I didn't expect you to eat so much! You’ll get a stomachache!”[/color] It did not matter though, as the seed had been planted. He managed to let out a few jovial laughs and nodded. [color=9DCC68]”Careful you don’t fall down, Princess. History tends to repeat itself.”[/color] 

Wystan furrowed his eyebrows ever so slightly at the baker’s remark. [i]History tends to repeat itself?[/i] Up until this point, he had set aside the man’s ingratiating tendencies and even managed to grow a smile over the princess’ childlike innocence over the delicacies. However, that comment could not be overlooked so simply. As he hovered a hand behind the princess to keep her from losing balance, he analyzed the possibilities before them– both of which left a repulsive aftertaste the more he turned them over in his mind.

As far as the watchdog knew, this would be their first time meeting. Neither Anastasia nor himself knew the man’s name, in fact. There was no history involved between the baker in question and the princess. Or at least, there [i]should not[/i] have been. At this implication, though barely-there, the bodyguard clenched his fist, assigning this concern a significant priority in his reports for later review. This evening, he would need to communicate with his contacts in the underground to gather intel on the so-called bakery on Fifth Street. 

The second probability meant that the baker had witnessed the princess during her dance with the cowlicked blond. Even so, despite the scene itself being one that was difficult to miss, it is the baker’s job to stay vigilant over their menu. Being asked to contribute for a royal event was not easy as not only does the food have to be decent– it needs to remain safe. Drugged food was not a rare occurrence, and more often than not, blame fell onto the chef managers in charge, resulting in less than savory results for the contributor’s career. Surely, this was the standard, as even the watchdog himself would often instruct event contributors to keep watch over their own tables - for their own sakes, if not for commendations from the guests. So, what was this baker in particular doing, letting his eyes wander and then settle so attentively on the princess? [i]Even at this time?[/i]

[color=#85aabd]”...The cake must be good, Your Highness. Be careful, unless you’d like for me to act as your crutch for the rest of the evening.”[/color] Wystan teased with a smile, all signs of suspicion hidden under a face of steel.

Anastasia barely heard either of them as she nommed a few more bites. However, Wystan’s words did eventually register and she glanced at him, tripping over her words, [color=E77298]“I would- I mean I’m good-...”[/color]She gasped as a thought crossed her mind, [color=E77298]“Ooooh that gives me an idea!”[/color]She set her plate down with an audible clink of the china.[color=E77298]”I bet my brothers would love this cake. I should summon them.”[/color] She pursued her lips thoughtfully as her gaze gradually searched the crowd. 

Her expression fell and she suddenly looked very sad. [color=E77298]”Oh no… I am short.”[/color]Anastasia randomly complained out of context. But before the men could be too confused, she turned to them and asked. [color=E77298]”Can either of you pick me up on your shoulders, please? If it’s not too vexing, that is.”[/color]

[color=#85aabd]”...On our shoulders?”[/color] Wystan inquired, a little concerned about the attention it would draw to the princess. Indeed, there was such a risk. After all, he himself was not sure of every single person’s motive present in the ballroom. Even still, he was in no doubt that at least a good number of them were unsavory. Erring on the side of caution, he proposed a suggestion. [color=#85aabd]”It certainly would not be vexing at all, Princess.”[/color] As a person who was more than capable of carrying two Anastasias, he was confident in his assurance. [color=#85aabd]”But… perhaps may I suggest I go look for them with you, instead? I’m sure they can’t be all that far.”[/color] The bodyguard’s words were coupled with a look– one that said: [i]for your own safety.[/i]

Ezra glanced between them, studying their reactions. The furrowed brow of the watchdog made him smirk, though he didn't show it. He was cordial and even laughed at his comments. The idea of inviting the brothers was welcomed. Anastasia's proposition made him blink with surprise. [color=9DCC68]”I don’t think that would be wise, Princess.”[/color] As much as he’d enjoy antagonizing the watchdog, he knew it would be unwise. Instead, however, he offered her his hand. [color=9DCC68]”We could go with you and find them together. How’s that?”[/color] He glanced back at the cake with a sad frown. [color=9DCC68]”.....I just hope the cake isn’t gone before they find it! This is quite the dilemma isn’t it?”[/color]

Anastasia was thoughtful about the choices presented to her. She could take both their hands and merrily skip toward each brother together. She fantasized with a smile over the adorable image in her head. But then Ezra brought up a good point. If they left, other people would eat the cake then[i] her brothers wouldn’t have any to eat.[/i] After a moment of careful deliberation, she made a firm decision to start climbing on top of a nearby empty table. She stood up on it and began looking through the crowd, putting a hand over her eyes to focus her vision. Then she started to wave down each brother one by one, attempting to catch their gaze. She first found Auguste, then Callum, and finally Wulfric. If she could not catch their eye, she planned to next start hollering across the ballroom. People were starting to stare at the elevated princess as she was garnering a lot of attention as she waved her arms about.

If one wasn’t as quick-witted and adaptable as he, they wouldn’t have known how to act. The grin on his face couldn’t be hidden now. He glanced around to the back of the table and held up a hand for her to hold. [color=9DCC68]”Please don’t hurt yourself over the cake, Princess.”[/color] He eyed the floor and wondered if she injured herself, could he blame her guard?