[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/4nbnsxl.png[/img][/center]
[color=lightgray][color=cfa36d]Interactions:[/color] [@FunnyGuy] Lorenzo  [@Rodiak] Nahir [@13org] Mayet [@Potter] Layla [@Helo] Leo [@Inertia] Auguste [@JJ Doe] Riona [@princess] Charlotte [@Lava Alckon] Farim [@Tpartywithzombi] Lady Ariella [@Infinite Cosmos] Munir

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The Sultan's attention was drawn away as Munir abruptly barged into the room. He followed Munir's movements with his gaze as he made his way to his seat. Letting out a sigh, the Sultan poured some wine into another goblet and pushed it towards Prince Auguste with an apologetic look. He then turned his attention back to Munir, his tone low and warning, "[color=cfa36d]Your tardiness is unbecoming of you, my son.[/color]" The Sultan's gaze flickered between Munir and Lady Ariella. [color=cfa36d]"I saw that little move of yours,"[/color] he added, raising a brow at him. [i][color=cfa36d]"Keep your hands to yourself."[/color][/i] Though he loved his son, he wanted to see him rise to a higher standard - not just in this particular situation, but in all aspects of life, to be completely honest. There was so much more to  Munir. Raif had seen intelligence, strength, and love from his precious son all before, but he had lost himself to worldly pleasures over the years. Still, he would not give up on Munir. He would keep trying.

Just as the Sultan was about to shift his focus back to his brother's entrance, he finally caught wind of the Duke, who was now in a state of agitation.

[color=salmon]"...Why shouldn't I just leave? Actually… I don't feel very welcomed here. Charlotte."[/color]

[color=cfa36d][i] ... I suppose I'll listen to obtain some context. [/i][/color]

[color=904342]“There is no need to act in such a way to the [i]Sultan’s[/i] guests, especially in front of Prince Auguste and our other guests...Why should he not sit there, uncle? Duke Vikena is the reason why we are gathered here, to enjoy each other’s company and learn from one another– Duke, please take a seat. I beseech you to forget his rude words. The Grand Vizier may have skipped breakfast after all.”[/color] 

The Sultan's smile widened as he gazed upon his stunning Nahir, his heart swelling with pride at the sight of her. Her knack for diplomacy and talent for words were truly remarkable, and he was delighted by how effortlessly she could sway the opinions of others in their favor. However, he could not help but feel a tinge of worry as he thought of his brother and the grudge he would hold against her for daring to speak out against him. Still, he knew that nothing could keep Nahir from speaking her truth.. Her intelligence and her heart of gold, which shone through in her every action, were a beacon of hope and wisdom to all who knew her. Even if she did not end up as the sultana, the Sultan knew that she would play an integral role in keeping good relations with other kingdoms and advising her siblings with grace and wisdom. As he looked upon her, a surge of affection filled his heart, and he could not help but call her his [i]"amal."[/i] For that was what Nahir represented to him - the hope that their kingdom would thrive under the guidance of wise and compassionate leaders like herself.

[color=F4BC5E]”Leaving so soon? Like a dog running with its tail tucked between its legs? What kind of example is that for Charlotte? You have shown us that not only are you a bumbling fool, but a coward at that. What a pity. Heed my Uncle’s words and give him his chair. He has well earned his spot; meanwhile, you should earn our respect after what you have done. You are also holding up our dinner and we could use a taste of Alidasht after the disaster you have bestowed.”[/color]

Raif couldn't help but feel a tinge of concern regarding Layla's sharp tongue, which could sometimes be as venomous as the snakes she so admired. However, as the eldest, she possessed a cunning nature akin to that of a snake, and this trait would undoubtedly come in handy when navigating the political waters of the court. While it was true that the Grand Vizier deserved to sit in the seat out of respect, Duke Vikena's early departure could potentially cause a much bigger issue and would certainly insult him. Thus, in her own way, Layla had acted wisely in attempting to persuade him to stay. One thing was certain, Layla was strong, just as any eldest child should be. She was also a top contender for the throne, as Raif knew that if anyone could withstand the burden of the crown, it was Layla. Nothing could bring her down, not even the most tumultuous sandstorm, for she remained the epitome of beauty and strength, a true goddess in her own right. She was his [i]"quwa"[/i].

[color=d3c28b]"Duke Vikena, you should [i]really[/i] be aware of your position and your surroundings. You are not the 'guest' of honor tonight, nor you are the dignified noble you seem to think you are...Nobility is more than just a title, Duke Vikena. Dignity, strength, competence, courage and above everything else, respect. Respect yourself, your ancestors, your lineage and those around you. No matter the situation...Remember why exactly you are here tonight. Recognize and accept your mistakes and face them with the respect and dignity of a noble of your position. If not for yourself, do it for your daughter. Lady Charlotte does not deserve to be punished for her father's words and actions any further than she already have...If you truly want to become the noble and the man you wish to be, the father your daughter deserves then you need to remember one thing... Change does not come without a great deal of effort and persistence."[/color] 

The Sultan could not help but feel a sense of pride whenever Mayet spoke as well. Her wisdom and compassion far exceeded her young age, and her ability to speak the truth in a way that was both passionate and respectful was truly remarkable. As he listened to her words, he could see the same passion that burned within their late mother. Mayet's tough exterior may have been intimidating to some whenever she spoke, but he knew that beneath it all was a kind heart, one that always sought to uplift and guide those around her. He often found himself smiling at her, unable to contain the joy he felt in his heart whenever she spoke. Her words had a way of making him feel as if his heart might bloom like a flower, and it was why he sometimes called her his little "warada." [color=cfa36d][i]She'd be an amazing sultana, someone who would rise without making sure those below her rose with her.[/i][/color]

[color=9AF781]“And Duke Vikena, I have been looking forward to sharing a meal with you, may I offer you my seat? Right here in the exquisite company of Prince Auguste, with an unobstructed view of so many radiant smiles and, most importantly, next to Lady Vikena. I can think of no better seat at any table for a father than beside his child.”[/color]

[color=cfa36d]"Well said, Lord Smithwood,"[/color] He commented out loud with appreciation to the red-haired young man. The sultan was not all too certain why he was here, but he was glad he was. Lord Smithwood was clearly an excellent problem solver who took the time to create a compromise that suited both parties. He was peaceful in his approach and respectful of all parties. Raif even extended him a nod of approval. He leaned on the table to further let advise Leo, [color=cfa36d] "You are very intelligent. I am impressed."[/color] His gaze flickered to his daughters as if to say. [color=cfa36d] [i]I like this one.[/i][/color]

The Sultan took a sip of his wine. This dinner was already so much entertainment and it had only been maybe ten minutes in. His brows lifted as yet another chimed in, and to his pleasure, it was the Duke's daughter, jumping to his defense. She had presented as the trembly little mouse in a room of cats as she had done at the ball initially, but the confidence she obtained the more she spoke was palpable.  [color=cfa36d] [i]That's one well-spoken māws. Very eloquent with her words. Smarter than I anticipated.[/i][/color]

[color=BBC7E1] “Now...Perhaps we can start anew, Grand Vizier. Is there anything you require of Duke Lorenzo at the current moment?”[/color]

The Sultan hid behind his goblet to stifle a laugh. Munir and Mayet had most likely heard the sound regardless. His brother finally spoke up.

[color=gold] "My dear Lorenzo, it seems you have misunderstood the situation. I did not insult you; I merely addressed you with respect due to someone who has yet to earn his place at our table. What I said was not meant out of disrespect, but out of the certainty that you are, indeed, a fool. And a foolish man can be a very useful tool in the right hands...As for hospitality, you are correct. We do treat our guests with the utmost respect and care. However, hospitality is a two-way street. You have disrespected our customs and traditions since your arrival at the ball last night. You have insulted our people and our way of life. It is not for you to demand hospitality when you have shown none yourself." [/color]

[color=cfa36d][i]So he did call him a fool and still is. I'll have to speak with him. Though you have some points, Hafiz, this was all inappropriate and unnecessary. [/i] [/color] Hafiz's voice had grown softer as he spoke. Raif leaned on the table, straining to try to hear his brother, but only was able to catch the tail end as he had spoken to Lady Vikena

[color=gold]"...As for you, my dear, I hope you will not take offense at our little disagreement. You are always welcome amongst our family, and I would be honored to show you the true beauty of our culture...Here, to show I did not mean offense, you keep the chair and I'll go sit over here.“[/color]

[color=cfa36d][i]Very good, Hafiz. Much better.[/i][/color]

Lorenzo then proceeded to speak to his brother with some understanding and compassion. The prince even voiced his agreement.

The Sultan's stomach rumbled and he decided that the show was over now. He suddenly loudly clapped and gave everyone a look that expressed his wish to end the quarrel. He rose up to his feet for extra measure and gave a slow glance around the room, making sure to meet everyone's eyes for at least a second. Raif then declared, [color=cfa36d]"...I'm famished. Farim is famished. Let's begin the first course, shall we?"[/color] 

As the sultan called for food, the air was filled with the aromatic scents of traditional Alidasht cuisine. Servants entered the room carrying an array of colorful dishes. On the plates were perfectly seasoned chicken skewers, grilled to perfection and adorned with expensive spices. Alongside them were bowls of creamy hummus, drizzled with olive oil. The fattoush, a refreshing salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs, was dressed in a tangy pomegranate vinaigrette. Freshly stuffed vine leaves, filled with a savory mixture of saffron rice, herbs, and spices, were presented on a platter, their aroma enticing the senses. And finally, a basket of warm, fluffy naan bread was placed on the table.
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