[center][h2][color=1E90FF]Sjan-dehk[/color] & [color=8D3B72]Kalliope[/color][/h2][/center]

Date: Sola 22nd

Special thanks [@Apex Sunburn]

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Piers were a liminal space for Sjan-dehk. Straddling the boundary between sea and land, it was where the creaking of ships met the clopping of hooves; where soft sea breezes met buildings of hard brick; where ocean brine mixed with earthy aromas. It was where familiarity coexisted in peace with unfamiliarity. And thus, they were one of the few landbound places Sjan-dehk felt comfortable being around.

Well, usually, at least. 

Today, he stood at the foot of the pier where his Sada Kurau was moored, noticeably ill-at-ease. Nervous eyes flittered back-and-forth from within the shadow of his hat, searching the endlessly streaming crowds for a recognisable face. All the while, his hands smoothed imaginary wrinkles and creases from his clothes over-and-over again, and adjusted belts that were more than adequately tightened. Normally, he wouldn’t have cared about his appearance – not to this degree, at least – but today wasn’t normal. It was far from it, in fact.

For he had an appointment today, if he could call it that. Not just with anyone, but with Kalliope, the lady whom he had met yesterday. Back then, she had offered to give him a tour of Sorian, and back then, he had accepted it without putting much thought into it. Only this morning, after returning from his fishing trip, did he realise what he had gotten himself into, and it was then did his nerves start rattling. 

That it was Kalliope had nothing to do with it. Really, it didn’t. What did was that he couldn’t remember the last time he spent time with a lady that wasn’t Shi, his youngest sister. He didn’t know what to do, how to act, or even what would be considered appropriate. Sure, he had done well enough – or at least, he hoped he did – the previous night, but he had the setting to thank for that. His Sada Kurau and the beach were familiar territory to him. The city? Not so much.

And so, he had spent his time up until now making sure all was as perfect as he could manage. His tunics were the cleanest he could scrounge. Pristine white peeked from underneath sky blue at his steep collars, and the sash tied around his waist was a deep crimson. He had eschewed his usual weapons; he carried only his twin sabres and a single pistol. That was Hai-shuun’s idea. Granted, whatever the carpenter had said was with reference to a date – which Sjan-dehk didn’t believe was what he had with Kalliope – but it did make sense. Having all those arms on him would make things awkward, to say the least. 

His fingers fiddled with a whalebone fan tucked into his sash. That one was Mursi’s idea. When meeting a lady, it was the proper form to present her with a gift at the very start, he had said. To be quite honest, the meaning of such an act went completely over Sjan-dehk’s head, but he wasn’t going to argue with what was considered to be ‘proper form’. Besides, he hadn’t used the fan at all since the day he got it. Might as well give it to someone who might appreciate it.

His foot tapped an erratic rhythm on the cobblestone path, and his teeth ground against his cheek. Just as he was about to set off in search of her – how exactly, he didn’t know – he caught sight of her face through the thronging mass of people. [color=1E90FF]“Kali!”[/color] He shouted and waved his hand over his head. [color=1E90FF]“Over here!”[/color] 

Kalliope turned her head at the sound of her name, a wide smile spreading across her face as she spotted Sjan-dehk amidst the bustling crowd. She waved back enthusiastically, her attire a casual fantasy ensemble that exuded charm and whimsy. Her knee-length dress, made of flowing fabric with a subtle floral pattern, draped around her in a loose and comfortable fit. The dress was cinched at the waist by a braided leather belt adorned with small charms, adding a touch of enchantment to her look.

Her feet were adorned with ankle boots crafted from soft leather, beautifully embellished with intricate embroidery and decorative buckles. Over the dress, she wore a lightweight, hooded cloak that added a sense of mystery and flair. The cloak featured a colourful lining and delicate lace trim, accentuating her every movement with grace.

Completing her ensemble were silver earrings shaped like delicate leaves, glimmering in the sunlight. Her hair was styled elegantly, with a floral headband adding a touch of natural beauty and charm.

Sjan-dehk’s breath caught in his throat as he watched Kalliope approach. She truly was an attractive sight; beautiful in a fresh, winsome manner that was akin to the charm of a patch of flowers brightening a drab street of grey stone and cold ceramic. That was all it was, he told himself. He was simply appreciating her beauty in the same way he could appreciate that of a majestic seascape or blossoming flower. There was nothing wrong with that. 

As Kalliope made her way towards him, her eyes sparkled with excitement and in anticipation of their upcoming adventure. Little did she know that beyond the planned tour of the city, she was about to embark on a journey of friendship and the stirrings of a blossoming connection.

[color=8D3B72]“Good morning, Sjan-dehk!”[/color] She called out, her voice filled with warmth and cheer. [color=8D3B72]“Don’t you look absolutely dashing! I see you’ve dressed to impress today.”[/color] Her eyes twinkled mischievously, appreciating his crisp attire and the fan tucked into his sash. [color=8D3B72]“A fan, huh? Well, I must say it suits you, my dear. Just remember, I don’t need fanning unless you want to see me pretend to swoon dramatically!”[/color] As she said it, she couldn’t help but playfully swoon.

Sjan-dehk’s laugh joined with hers, and both of theirs blended with the vibrant sounds of the city. In that moment, Kalliope felt a growing fondness for her companion; a realisation that this day held more than just a tour. It held the promise of a special connection, an adventure that could lead to something beautiful. For Sjan-dehk’s part, he couldn’t help but be swept up in her current. Her exuberance was catching, and it soon dissipated the nervous eddies swirling in his mind. So caught up was he in the moment that he forgot to give her the fan. Neither did he remember to compliment her appearance, as per Dai-sehk’s advice. He was simply too caught up in the moment, taking heart in the shrinking distance between them. To finally form such a connection with someone outside of his crew was refreshing. That was all it was.

[color=8D3B72]“I hope you’re hungry because I’ve planned for our first stop to be food as I’m starving!”[/color] She exclaimed, linking her arm with his as she prepared to lead the way. [color=8D3B72]“Shall we? And who knows what else might await us today? Perhaps we’ll stumble upon some hidden treasures that even I was unaware of! Either way, I hope to make it an unforgettable day.”[/color] Her voice brimmed with genuine excitement and the spark of a crush unknowingly flickered in her heart.

Sjan-dehk tensed up when she took him by the arm, but soon relaxed. As much as he could, at least; this was still very much new to him. Even so, he gingerly pulled her in a little closer as the pushing crowd flowed around them. [color=1E90FF]“I could eat,”[/color] he replied and pushed his hat a little higher up his brow. [color=1E90FF]“Last I ate was just before we went fishing, and that was well before sunrise.”[/color] Then, he titled his head towards the city with a grin. [color=1E90FF]“My sails are yours to tack, Kali. Let’s be off.”[/color]

Kalliope couldn’t help but notice the slight tension in his demeanour, and it only served to make her grin all the wider. She delighted in the dance of emotions swirling within her new friend, knowing that their connection was growing stronger with each passing moment. When he pulled her closer, her heart skipped a beat, and she revelled in the warmth of his presence.

[color=8D3B72]“Excellent! Then to get food shall be our first stop.”[/color] She led the way, her steps light and purposeful as she savoured the thrill of having Sjan-dehk by her side.

Barely ten steps had passed when Sjan-dehk finally remembered what he was supposed to do. Sneaking a glance at the lady beside him, he cleared his throat. [color=1E90FF]“You look…”[/color] He trailed off and looked up over the roofs, searching clear, azure skies for the right words. [color=1E90FF]“Good.”[/color] No, that wasn’t the one. He drew in a deep breath and tried again. He drew in a deep breath and tried again. [color=1E90FF]“I mean, you look very pretty.”[/color] His hands fumbled for the fan, but eventually he pulled it free from his sash and presented it handle-first to her across his body. [color=1E90FF]“And this is actually for you, but it slipped my mind until now. My apologies.”[/color]

His awkwardness in offering a compliment didn’t go unnoticed by Kalliope. Neither did the time it took for him to muster the courage to do so. Her playful smile grew wider, and she couldn’t help but tease him gently. [color=8D3B72]“Oh, just good? I suppose I’ll accept that for now,”[/color] she replied with a mock pout, her tone filled with playful sass. [color=8D3B72]“But I must say, you’re lucky I find ‘very pretty’ to be a most agreeable compliment.”[/color] She winked at him, enjoying their lighthearted banter.

Her attention was then drawn to the fan, and her eyes sparkled with delight. She took it graciously, studying the intricate design and its smooth handle. [color=8D3B72]“Thank you, Sjan-dehk,”[/color] she said with a soft smile, raising the fan to her face and playfully fanning herself. [color=8D3B72]“Now I have a secret weapon to combat the summer heat and make all the other ladies envious.”[/color] She chuckled, her playful demeanour never faltering.

As they continued their journey through the bustling city, she couldn’t shake off the growing sense of excitement and the subtle flutter in her heart. She was eager to show Sjan-dehk the hidden gems of the city and spend more time in his company. Little did she know that with every playful interaction and shared moment, her feelings for him were slowly evolving. If she weren’t careful, it would be easy for those feelings to develop into something more.

Kalliope led Sjan-dehk through the city streets until they reached a charming tavern called ‘The Dancing Dragon’. Inside, the warm glow of candlelight illuminated the lively atmosphere filled with laughter, animated conversations, and the melodies of bards. The walls were adorned with tapestries depicting epic tales, and the bar offered a wide selection of drinks. Sjan-dehk found his senses overwhelmed by the new sights and smells that greeted him, but he couldn’t say it was an unpleasant experience. His eyes swept over the tapestries, taking in the stories told by their ornate needlework. There were heroic figures slaying vile monsters; noble kings and their ever-faithful companions; beautiful queens and princesses presiding over loyal courtiers and amongst loving subjects.

Well, he assumed that was what they depicted, at least. 

Gentle tugs from Kalliope’s arm kept him grounded. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she guided him to a cosy table near the roaring fireplace. [color=8D3B72]“This is the Dancing Dragon,”[/color] she exclaimed, her voice filled with delight. [color=8D3B72]“It’s one of the many places where locals gather to share stories and enjoy the finest ale. It’s the perfect place to begin our tour and indulge in delicious food before our next adventure as I think they have the widest collection of local cuisine here, including my personal favourite, the pasty.”[/color] They settled into their seats, surrounded by the vibrant ambiance of the tavern.

[color=1E90FF]“Exciting place,”[/color] Sjan-dehk remarked as he sat down. The music lilted about his ears, their light melodies complementing each other perfectly. He couldn’t help but tap a finger along with the cheery beat. All the while, he looked around them, still taking in the atmosphere. [color=1E90FF]“Can’t say I understand what I’m seeing or smelling, though.”[/color] He turned back around to face Kalliope with a grin. [color=1E90FF]“But that’s why I’m glad to have you here. I’ve to apologise, though. I’ve got a feeling that you’ll have to answer a lot of my questions before the day’s done, and I’ve already got one for you. What’s a pasty?”[/color]

Kalliope chuckled at Sjan-dehk’s comment, her eyes sparkling with amusement. The lively ambiance of the tavern seemed to amplify their conversation, creating an intimate bubble amidst the bustling crowd. She took a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere before answering his question.

[color=8D3B72]“Oh, Sjan-dehk, you’re in for a treat!”[/color] She exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement. [color=8D3B72]“A pasty is a delicious savoury pastry, typically filled with meats, vegetables, and spices. It’s like a handheld meal wrapped in a flakey pastry crust. You’ll have to try one, they’re a local specialty!”[/color] She gestured for a waiter to come over to them when they had the chance, eager to place orders for their food and drinks.

Leaning in closer, she added playfully, [color=8D3B72]“Consider it the first mystery of the day, and I’ll be your guide to uncovering all the culinary wonders of Sorian amongst others! Ask as many questions as you need, I’ll be happy to answer them.”[/color] Her eyes sparkled mischievously as she awaited his reaction, eager to embark on this culinary adventure together.

All thoughts of the decorative tapestries left Sjan-dehk’s mind once Kalliope spoke. He couldn’t say for why, but there was something about her that captivated him. Perhaps it were her promises of more discoveries; he always did like experiencing new things, be it seeing new lands, sailing unfamiliar seas, or just indulging in exotic tastes and foreign sounds. Or perhaps, as he largely believed, it was simply due to the enthusiasm which laced each and every one of her words.

His grin turned into a warm smile as he simply watched and listened to her. To see the genuine excitement across her visage and in her animated movements was comforting, in a way. He wondered if this was how he looked to others when he spoke at length about ships and sailing. If so, he couldn’t say he minded very much; in this very moment, Kalliope’s charm was undeniable and endearing.

[color=1E90FF]“Well,”[/color] he said and leaned forward slightly. [color=1E90FF]“I’ll be looking forward to what you have to show me, Kali, and something tells me that you’re not going to disappoint.”[/color]

An idea struck Kalliope like a bolt of lightning as she savoured the tavern’s lively atmosphere. Her eyes widened with excitement, and she looked back at Sjan-dehk with a mischievous grin.

[color=8D3B72]“Sjan-dehk, I have the most splendid idea!”[/color] She exclaimed, unable to contain her enthusiasm. [color=8D3B72]“Tomorrow night, there’s a magnificent masquerade party taking place. It’ll be an enchanting event filled with mystery, glamour, and endless possibilities. It’ll also be a fabulous way to meet more of the influential people of the city while learning more about us. How about we attend it together? It’ll be an experience you won’t forget!”[/color]

She leaned in closer, her voice hushed yet brimming with anticipation. [color=8D3B72]“Imagine, dancing under the flickering candlelight, surrounded by masked strangers, each harbouring secrets and hidden identities. It’s a chance to step into a different world, even if just for one night. What do you say, Sjan-dehk? Will you be my partner in this grand adventure?”[/color] Her eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and hope, eagerly awaiting his response, and eager to embark on this enchanting journey with him.

As much as Sjan-dehk tried to stop himself, his face fell at her suggestion. He hadn’t the slightest idea as to what a masquerade was, but from the sound of things, it would be a formal affair that would involve all the stuffiness that came with them. His first instinct was to turn her down right away – and had it been anyone else, he likely would have done just that – but the look in her eyes gave him pause, and he gave it more thought.

She did raise a good point; this would be an excellent chance for him to get to know who was who in this city, something that would surely do him many favours in the near future. Getting a first-hand look at how the local nobility went about their business would also likely prove to be a boon, if nothing else. Of course, he had already attended the King’s court, however briefly, but he had his doubts that whatever had happened there was normal.

And besides, he couldn’t say that the idea of spending an evening enjoying the finer things in life with her was a bad one. It was rather appealing, in fact, though the reason why escaped him. Regardless, that very thought was enough to sway his opinion. 

[color=1E90FF]“Alright,”[/color] he said with a nod and a smile. [color=1E90FF]“It’d be my honour to escort you to this mask–masquerade. But I’ve to warn you, I can’t say I’m well-versed in formal things. Even back home, I rarely attended anything like this. Couldn’t stand them, to be honest.”[/color] A sheepish smile came over his face at his admission, and he sat back in his seat. [color=1E90FF]“So you’ll have to teach me how things work, I suppose, and I promise to follow your lead like a diligent student.”[/color] There was also the question of what clothes he should wear, but he supposed they would have time to deal with that problem later.