[color=#DEC5D6][center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/619241131355537409/1100624706715013160/Amisra.png[/img][/center]
[color=#8D3B72]Time:[/color] Late Morning
[color=#8D3B72]Location:[/color] The Beach
[color=#8D3B72]Interactions:[/color] Calbert [@princess], Sjan-dehk [@Apex Sunburn]
[color=#8D3B72]Aesthetic:[/color] [url=https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/1065027714953793578/1136090447433973860/2023-08-01_17_16_43.525-0700.jpg]Swimsuit[/url]

[center][img]https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/1064772112633569330/1100627858638000148/Banner.png[/img][/center]

Kalliope felt a mix of emotions as she walked beside Sjan-dehk along the beach. The unexpected peck on his cheek had been impulsive, driven by a surge of gratitude and perhaps something more she couldn't quite define. She noticed the faint pink tint on his cheeks and the way he nervously scratched his face, and it brought a subtle smile to her lips. But then she felt a surge of disgust within herself as Layla’s words echoed in her mind. Perhaps she was nothing more than a whore? Her stomach lurched and she felt ill, but she kept her composure as she tried to push the thought away.

His words, however, tugged at her heart. She appreciated his defense and the way he stood up for her, but she also saw the unease in his eyes. It was clear that the encounter with the princess had left an impression on him, and she felt a strange mixture of gratefulness and guilt. Grateful for his support, and guilty for involving him in this awkward situation. She could only pray that she hadn’t left a bad impression of herself on him.

Sjan-dehk's comments about the princess made her chuckle softly. [i][color=8D3B72]"Yes, it seems we've stumbled upon the less savory side of nobility today,"[/color][/i] she replied, her voice carrying a touch of wry humor especially as she caught a glance of Count Damien seeming to be headed their way. What could he possibly want? Her attention was pulled back to the man beside her, however, as she gave him her full attention once more.

His mention of the Way intrigued her. Kalliope had heard some of Jafin's teachings and the principles that guided the people of Viserjanta from Izahn. It was a refreshing perspective, one that emphasized the potential for redemption and the impact of one's past experiences. She respected that viewpoint and appreciated Sjan-dehk's attempt to find some compassion for the princess, especially since she found herself struggling to do so.

As he spoke about her character and her actions, she couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth. It was as if a weight had been lifted, and his words helped dispel some of the lingering unease from the encounter. His smile and encouragement were a balm to her wounded pride.

When he pulled away and apologized, she shook her head gently, her expression softening. [i][color=8D3B72]"No need for apologies, Sjan-dehk. I didn’t mind, truly. You've been a true friend today, and I appreciate it,"[/color][/i] she said sincerely.

Kalliope watched Calbert approach with a polite and composed expression, though beneath it, her thoughts were far less gracious. The man was a snake, and she found herself thoroughly disliking him. His facade of politeness didn't fool her for a second, and his smile only made her trust him less. Though she realized she likely knew more about him than most others thanks to her line of work.

As he handed her the invitation, she took it gracefully and inclined her head in acknowledgment. [color=8D3B72]"Thank you for your kind words, Calbert. It's good to be back,"[/color] she replied, her tone polite but devoid of genuine warmth.

When he turned his attention to Sjan-dehk, her gaze flickered briefly to her companion. She couldn't help but wonder what Calbert's true intentions were in approaching them. Her suspicions were on high alert, but she kept her expression pleasantly neutral as she observed the interaction between Calbert and the Captain.

Once he had walked away, she found herself quietly speaking to Sjan-dehk about the man. [i][color=8D3B72]”Careful with him, he’s a wolf in disguise.”[/color][/i] She wouldn’t say more than that before glancing down at the invitation and being reminded of the masquerade she’d invited Sjan-dehk to yesterday. [i][color=8D3B72]”But I suppose his approach did help me think of something. Before I let you get back to your day, are we still going to the masquerade tonight together?”[/color][/i][/color]