[center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/951907880779538452/1114288273393729606/2.png[/img][/center]
[color=slateblue]Time:[/color] 7pm
[color=F0E399]Location:[/color] Guest house
[color=slateblue]Mention:[/color]Farim/Drake - @LavaAlckon
[color=F0E399]Appearance[/color]:[url=https://imgur.com/a/8BzG1mp]Dress[/url], [url=https://i.pinimg.com/564x/ca/ab/d2/caabd28d4bd6e8e500e454ac74af8474.jpg] Hair style but red [/url],

Ariella sat at the table with her hands on her lap. She had picked at her meal through the night just keeping to herself as everything transpired. Mayet throwing the knife certainly sealed the evening for her. 

Ariella had seen and heard quite a lot this evening that she wasn’t sure she was able to socialize more. It was like she was watching a circus, yet she was also inside the large iron bars. She could never understand the actions that many of them took this evening, all for their titles or honor. She felt so out of place, even now. A room full of people yet she sat there to herself, unable to feel any sort of connection. 

She was however rather impressed by Farim. In the short time they had known each other he had expressed his interest in becoming the next Sultan and the way he held himself this evening she could see that being a proper fit and it seems like she wasn’t the only one to feel that way. She watched him leave and continue his conversating and socializing while she sat there alone. 

She didn’t fault anyone, it really was her own undoing. Ari always had a hard time finding common ground with people, the only one she was actually able to hold a conversation with was Callum. She was missing the time she had spent in the garden with him. It was really nice to actually share a conversation about her own interests then pretending to be someone she wasn’t. She envied Callum for the fact that he was able to stop caring about what people thought and just acted out on his own accord. She hadn’t quite gotten to that point yet.

Ariella stood up out of her chair and began to gather her belongings. Everyone was so busy she tried to slip out without being noticed. 

Farim had been rather absorbed in the night's events, having now taken care of Thara and answered an interesting array of questions from Lady Charlotte. He had initially begun to head off to Sultan’s chambers to answer the summon, yet as he walked down the hall, a realization hit him. [color=D2691E][i]Ariella! I completely wandered off without seeing her first. I hope she is doing well[/i][/color]

He turned a corner and began to quickly walk towards the dining room. As he made his entrance he noticed Ariella beginning to head out. He slowed his pace and came up behind her, not trying to sneak but not trying to announce his presence either. He stepped to her side and finally spoke to her as he would lean forward to show his smiling face.

[color=D2691E]”Ariella! I hope you were not too displeased by tonight's dinner. And apologies for disappearing for a moment. Thara needed to be placed on her perch. What is it that you plan to do with the rest of your night?”[/color]

Ariella was startled by Farim as she looked over to see him just behind her. [color=slateblue] “ Oh, Farim. Well, it was longer than a moment, but it's quite alright. The future [i]Sultan[/i] would have his hands rather busy at an event like tonight.” [/color] She kept her voice low so no one would overhear their inside joke.  

She stood straighter and offered him a friendly smile [color=slateblue]” Displeased isn’t the word I’d use. Slightly entertained and Overwhelmed.” [/color] She shifted around uncomfortably [color=slateblue]” I was actually just about to step outside for some air, would you care to join me? I understand if you are busy” [/color] 

First, his expression was one of embarrassment, which quickly morphed into a slight panic as he would put a finger to his lips. [color=D2691E]”Not so louuud…”[/color] He doubted anyone heard, but he was not willing to gamble any of his family caught wind of such a joke, even if it did put him on airs ever so slightly.

She extended her offer, which he nodded happily, offering his hand to her as he moved to pull her chair for her. [color=D2691E]” It would my pleasure, fair Ariella.”[/color] He followed this with another trademark Farim wink. [color=D2691E]”I feel some fresh air is a smart idea. I understand I was running around for a mo- well longer than a moment. But I am here and you have my undivided attention.”[/color]

Ariella smiled and lead the way out through the guest room doors. Making their way through the main room and out the large front doors. The evening air tickled her nose as she pulled her shawl over her shoulders tightly, covering her bare arms from the wind. [color=slateblue]“ Ah..That is better. Nothing better than an evening breeze. I think it has to be one of my favorite things.” [/color]

She took in a deep breath before letting it out slowly. [color=slateblue]“ It is quite alright, I wasn't saying anything against your social adventures this evening. I came under the impression that it would be rude and perhaps even a bit sad if you were to attend this evening alone as Anastasia had canceled on you. “ [/color]she shrugged letting out a soft laugh[color=slateblue] “ I suppose a future sultan would have no problem finding his way to an event alone” [/color]her eyes softened[color=slateblue] “ you held yourself very well, I think you should be proud of yourself. I hope that's not too strange for me to say.” [/color]

It seems his actions had been favorable with more people than he thought. He was reassured that perhaps his vocabulary, while harsh and cold, may have been what was needed to diffuse things. He would likely have picked different words should such an event occur again, but one rarely has the chance to think such things in the heat of the moment.

[color=D2691E]”You are quite kind, Ariella. I thank you for that.”[/color] The breeze hit his body as well, prompting some goosebumps to form on his arms and back, hidden by layers of silk. He took note of that for now and continued reflecting on what she had said. [color=D2691E]”Well if I could have just anyone I would still much prefer to have someone like you in my company, Ariella. You are quite different from the riff raff, in a good way mind you.”[/color] 

He took another look at the lady next to him covering her bare skin. [color=D2691E]”I could likely shed a layer or two if you would like some more warmth. Perhaps I could even run back and grab you something?”[/color] He then offered her his arm. [color=D2691E]”Or perhaps we can simply huddle for warmth? If that isn’t too cheeky for your liking?”[/color] He flashed a smile in her direction that was soft and inviting, or at least it aimed to be. 

Ariella laughed nervously as she took his arm, she huddled next too him and pressed against his shoulder. [color=slateblue]“ Careful, or I may start calling you Munir”[/color] she teased as she remembered the graze on her back as he had joined the table earlier. 

Farim used his free hand to rub the back of his head in slight bashfulness. [color=D2691E]”Well, I hardly find myself on Munir’s level, but I just like to make sure those who deserve compliments receive them. You are a special one, Ariella. Don’t let others fool you.”[/color] His hand reached over hers to keep it warm. They walked together down the road and he took the moment to breathe in that cool night air, his body brushing up to hers to savor the body between them.

Ariella smiled lightly as she continued walking with Farim. It was a surprising friendship, to say the least. Ana certainly had her way with charming people, but it worked out nicely for her since she got to spend some time with a rather interesting person. “ I appreciate the kind words Farim. I will have to take your word for it. I don't believe I’ve done anything to deserve such sentiments but I shouldn’t refuse them, coming from a future sultan “ she offered him a warm smile and a gentle nudge to the ribs.[color=slateblue] “ Although this evening was not something either of us expected, it was a nice surprise. I would have much rather continued the evening at the bar then that dinner but I suppose that is just how it is sometimes.” [/color]

Farim enjoyed this little moment. In his brief time in Caessonia he seemed to be making quite a few friends, which he was rather grateful for. Her nudge to his ribs made him look at her with a cocky grin. [color=D2691E]”You are certainly right. This has been a day of many turns and twists. If not for the bar fiasco you would not have seen your [i]Prince Charming[/i] no?”[/color] He joked with her, giving her a slight nudge with his arm locked with hers. [color=D2691E]”I am glad to have met you, and I do hope you find yourself someone like that, if not in Prince Callum.”[/color] The cold weather made him shiver ever so slightly, but the warmth between them managed to stave off most of the shudders and chills.

She let out a soft chuckle [color=slateblue]“ Prince charming…Do you mean Callum? That was a very nice afternoon, he doesn’t toss around much of the Charm as you make think. He is just himself, easy to talk to, or at least I think so... but I don't think he’s interested in me that wa-"[/color]

Ariella was interrupted by the sounds of horse hooves hitting the pavement as a carriage began hurrying its way down the road. 

The carriage came to a sudden halt as a loud voice called from inside the cabin. [color=greenyellow]”HALT GOOD SIR!”[/color] The driver pulled the carriage around and the door popped open. At first, Farim tensed up and took a step forward, eyes glaring at the darkened inside of the carriage.  

Ariella stepped behind Farim as the carriage pulled up, feeling her heart racing at the unexpected visitor. 


That is when a reassuring, calmer voice rang out. [color=greenyellow]”Now now, this is not what you think. Ari, dear, you are requested at home. I am sorry to your…friend? But there is an urgent family meeting.”[/color] He stepped out of the carriage, brushing his pant legs off before taking a moment to address Farim. [color=greenyellow]”Good evening, Shehzade whose name I regretfully do not know. I am Sir Drake Edwards, this fine young lady’s brother. So I apologize for the sudden departure but as I said there has been an urgent family assembly called.”[/color] He looked at Ariella with a serious expression.

Ari looked at the carriage as a familiar voice came out, stepping out of the carriage was her brother. She felt the daggers of his eyes piercing into her as she continued to stand behind Farim.[color=slateblue] “If it's about the mud, I told mother that I fell while getting into the carriage home. It wasn’t a big deal Drake, it's all fine now..”[/color] Ariella said her voice holding a tinge of concern behind her words. 

His words turned from serious into concern as he closed the distance between them, leaving a few paces between the pair in front of him. [color=greenyellow]”I’m not saying you did anything wrong. But our parents demand us all to sit down and talk. Mother is….well mother. And even Father is concerned.”[/color] He paused for a moment, his eyes looking at Farim before coughing nervously. Farim would only meet the man's gaze with a raised brow. He thought of saying something but this seemed to be a private matter so he held his tongue for the moment. [color=greenyellow]”I really think we should at least talk about this on the ride home, because they won’t accept no for an answer, Ari.”[/color]

Ari let out a long sigh, standing behind Farim her head lowered. She leaned against his back for a moment. Her head pressed into the small of his back. She took a deep breath and pulled back, walking around Farim she gently held onto his arm and looked up at him with a smile. 
[color=slateblue]“ Thank you for the nice walk, We will catch up more another evening.” [/color]There was a look of disappointment and fear in her eyes as she turned to look at Drake.[color=slateblue] “ Yes, we can talk on the way there. Let's go.” [/color] Ariella let go of Farims arm before stepping into the carriage.  

Farim would reach his arm around as she walked in front of him, their arms still clinging for just a moment. He gave her a gentle hug to soothe her seemingly rattled nerves. [color=D2691E]”Get home safe, and do not let your parents give you too much trouble. It was wonderful seeing you Ariella and I hope to talk to you more in the coming days.”[/color] With that he felt her grip leave his arm and she walked into the carriage. Drake looked at the Shehzade and held out his hand, his expression still somewhat somber yet firm as they locked eyes.

[color=greenyellow]”Thank you for watching over her. I will do the same henceforth. You have my word. I bid you a good night.”[/color] Farim met the man’s hand with a quick handshake, and the two turned and began walking opposite ways, one into the carriage and the other back to the guest house. Farim couldn’t help but worry for Ariella. He knew being reprimanded by your parents, especially ones that sounded as overbearing as hers, would be an intense headache and could lead to trouble. [color=D2691E]”Better keep your word, Sir Edwards…”[/color] He whispered to himself as he continued down the stone road.