[hider=Afternoon Sola 23, 1739: Kalliope & Riona][center][h1][b][color=8D3B72]Kalliope[/color] & [color=DAF6C7]Riona[/color][/b][/h1][/center]
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To say that Riona was less than thrilled about being shackled to the service of Sh*tlord for the rest of his stay in the capital would be a monumental understatement. Not that he was particularly overjoyed by the situation either. The whole arrangement, courtesy of Lady Morrigan, was “compensation” for Riona’s antics. The Varian Lordling claimed he accepted purely as a favor. Riona, however, wasn’t buying it. She knew a smug power play when she saw one.

During the early hours of the morning, Riona naively thought she could handle the new assignment without giving in to the temptation of slapping the snobbery off his face. That was, of course, before she endured a full thirty seconds in the Duke-to-be’s company, reaffirming her dislike of the pompous a**. So, when she doctored his morning brew with a botched potion, her conscience was lighter than air. Her only regret was not being there to see him embarrass himself.

For “ruining” his shoes, the Lordling ordered Riona to purchase new ones in time for the upcoming masquerade ball. Little did he know the slipperiness wore off days ago. Since he cared to check this as much as she cared to tell him (which was never), she took the liberty of rehoming his footwear collection to people who appreciated them more.

Her mission for replacements led her to Cotton & Silk, a Varian apparel and accessories shop that Sadie and she had stumbled upon just a day prior. Its range was staggering, catering to every conceivable shape, size, and style.

Which was how Riona curated the most absurdly inappropriate assortment of high heels, each more garish and flamboyant than the last, all perfectly sized for Lordling Smithwood. To add variety, she included sandals studded with fake diamonds, unvarnished wooden clogs, and fuzzy lion slippers into His Lordlingship’s new collection.

After all, he never did say what kind of shoes he wanted.

With the task done, Riona found herself with nothing else to do. The shoes were set to be delivered straight to the Lordling’s room, and the housekeeper gave her no other instructions. She had a rare pocket of time to herself, in the middle of a workday no less! Maybe this arrangement wasn’t so bad.

Unsure of how to spend the unexpected free time, Riona wandered the streets while she turned over her options. As she ambled along, she caught a glimpse of a familiar figure in the crowd. [color=DAF6C7]“Via?”[/color] she called out tentatively, moving closer to get a better look.

After the peculiar series of events that unfolded on the beach that morning, Kalliope decided that a bit of retail therapy was in order. The beach outing had taken an unexpected turn, with Layla's dramatics and the subsequent confrontations creating an air of tension, then there was the whole situation with Sjan-dehk that left her confused and slightly upset. Kalliope was more than happy to escape. She had retreated from the scene with a mixture of amusement and exasperation, and the idea of shopping seemed like a perfect way to reset her mood.

So, Kalliope had wandered the bustling streets of the town, browsing through shops and boutiques, her vibrant gaze dancing over fabrics and accessories. She let herself be immersed in the world of colors and textures, allowing the simple pleasure of shopping to distract her from the chaos of the morning.

As she moved down a particularly charming lane lined with shops, Kalliope was startled by a voice calling out a particular nickname. The voice was familiar, and her heart warmed at the sound. She turned to see Riona, her best friend and the closest thing she had to a sister, making her way towards her.

A delighted smile broke across Kalliope's face, and she hurried over to her friend, embracing her tightly. [color=8D3B72]"Riona! Oh, it's so wonderful to see you! I’ve missed you desperately."[/color] Kalliope exclaimed, her voice carrying genuine joy. It was a pleasant surprise to run into Riona during her impromptu shopping excursion. She’d planned to reach out to her as soon as she could get back to the castle and have a moment to herself.

As soon as the other woman stopped, Riona didn’t hesitate. Swift as a flash, she closed the distance and encircled her sister with her arms before Via could take more than a few strides toward her. The momentum sent them spinning around, eliciting a gleeful laughter from Riona. When the twirling slowed down and they steadied themselves, Riona’s hands found Via’s. [color=DAF6C7]“When did you get back? You should’ve sent for me, I would’ve come to get you!”[/color]

Kalliope’s gleeful laughter joined Riona’s as they spun, their joy eliciting odd glances from those around them. She cared little what anyone else thought, however, and even almost dared them to interrupt her and her sister’s reunion. At Riona’s question, however, Kali felt a sheepish grin cross her face as she thought of all that had transpired since she’d gotten back. [color=8D3B72]”A couple days ago. Initially I was going to send for you, but the trip back took much longer than expected. Then when I arrived I ran into an…interesting character who may have distracted me more than I’d anticipated. What have you heard of the captain of the Sada Kurau?”[/color] She felt a blush tinge her cheeks as she mentioned Sjan-dehk.

Pure astonishment turned into a blend of amusement and delight as Riona watched a rare expression cross Via’s face. [color=DAF6C7]“Nothing, only that apparently he’s charming enough to make you forget your sister was waiting for your safe return.”[/color]

She tried to appear stern, but they both knew Riona wasn’t remotely upset. Even though she wished they could’ve reunited sooner, their jobs made finding time together difficult. With Via’s line of work, there were never any guarantees. It wasn’t unusual for her to return from an assignment, stay in the capital for days, then leave again without ever seeing Riona. Still, the sisters always found ways to connect, leaving notes and gifts for each other or sending letters if Via’s mission would allow it. This coincidental reunion was something Riona would never take for granted. Her sister was back, safe and whole—that was all that mattered.

[color=DAF6C7]“Well, I [i]guess[/i] your sister might find it in her heart to forgive you. But only if you make it up to her,”[/color] she said, linking their arms. [color=DAF6C7]“Her demands are simple. Tea, treats, and all the details about everything that happened.”[/color] Unable to keep up the act, Riona let her sly smile break free as she led Via down the street.

Kalliope chuckled at Riona's playful scolding, her sister's words and presence having an immediate soothing effect on her. As they walked arm in arm down the bustling street, Kali couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of contentment. 

[color=8D3B72]"Tea, treats, and stories, huh?"[/color] Kalliope raised an eyebrow, feigning contemplation. [color=8D3B72]"I believe I can manage those demands, dear sister. And I promise, no more distractions."[/color]

She gave Riona's arm a gentle squeeze, grateful beyond words for this unexpected reunion. Despite the chaos and uncertainty that often marked her life, moments like these with her sister were a reminder of what truly mattered.

[color=DAF6C7]“Welcome home, Via.”[/color] Riona tilted her head closer to Via and whispered. [color=DAF6C7]“I missed you. I’m glad you’re back.”[/color] 

As they walked towards their favorite tea shop, Kali went on to tell her all about her trip first. She used coded words that she knew Riona would understand as she explained how she'd arrived in the kingdom she was sent to, how she met their king, found him to be absolutely dastardly and deserving of what she needed to do, and then she told her how she seduced him and rid the world of the vile being.

Once they were seated with some tea, she went on to tell her all the juicy details of the man she had met the other day. [color=#8D3B72]”As I got off the ship, I noticed an odd looking ship in the harbor here and my curiosity got the better of me. I quietly made my way aboard and began exploring the upper deck without notice until Captain Sjan-dehk saw me. He seemed more amused than angry that I was there and we ended up having a lovely conversation. I discovered he comes from the same kingdom my dear friend in that horrid prison came from. He was kind and invited me to a ceremony to honor those they lost on the way here.”[/color] The smile on her face was one that might be found on a lovesick puppy, but Kalliope didn’t even realize this.

[color=#8D3B72]”I then told him I’d show him the city and now we’re going Calbert’s masquerade party tonight together. Which reminds me, I might be in need of your help in figuring out what exactly to do with my hair?”[/color] She said the last bit a little sheepishly, clearly a bit nervous about the date that she wouldn’t admit was a date.

[color=DAF6C7]“You could do anything with your hair and it’d still be perfect.”[/color] Riona meant it too. Via had the kind of beauty that made even bedhead look fashionable. [color=DAF6C7]“But if you’re worried, I can do your hair when you get ready for the party.”[/color] She leaned back slightly in her chair, imagining the auburn red hair in various styles. [color=DAF6C7]“Have you decided what you’re going to be wearing? If not, there’s a couple of stores Sadie and I went yesterday that I think you’d really like.”[/color]

After staring at her sister a little longer, Riona asked, [color=DAF6C7]“Are you falling in love?”[/color] 

Kalliope's eyes sparkled with excitement as she agreed to style her hair. She always felt Riona did a better job than she did with styling her tresses.

[color=8D3B72]"That would be wonderful, Riona,"[/color] she replied with a warm smile. [color=8D3B72]"I have a dress being altered to match Sjan-dehk's outfit, but I'm still in need of accessories and shoes to complete the look. I was going to pick up the dress as well. If you wanted to come with me, then you could give me your opinion on it."[/color] She didn’t even realize that she’d forgotten to call him Captain and simply used his name as if they were already quite close.

When Riona asked the question about falling in love, Kalliope's cheeks flushed slightly, and she let out a nervous giggle. [color=8D3B72]"It's not like that. We just met, and he's... intriguing, that's all. Besides, I'm far too busy with work to think about love."[/color] She waved her hand dismissively, hoping to downplay any notions of romantic involvement. The truth was she didn’t really know what she felt for him, it was all quite confusing.

Riona recalled the fluttering sensations she felt when her own heart had danced to a tune she hadn’t expected, just like it seemed to be doing with Via now. [i]At first, Dan was just another stableboy who popped out of nowhere and started working at the royal stables. Over time, he became a trusted friend, someone she could confide in and do just about anything with (even pretend to be betrothed so that “Ms. Vos” could have a bank account). She, however, had never seen him as more than that.

So when Dan confessed deeper feelings for her, it caught Riona completely off guard. But his words also planted a seed in her mind. She started looking at Dan in a new light, noticing things about him she had overlooked before. The way he made her laugh. The strength of his arms when they rode together. The warmth in his eyes when he looked at her. Bit by bit, Riona realized she was falling for Dan too. Where once he had been just a friend, now she felt butterflies in her stomach when he was near. She found herself making excuses just to see him. Her heart raced at his smile. Being with Dan made her happy in a way she had never known before. Life felt bigger, brighter, full of exciting possibilities. She, of all people, dreamed of a future. For the first time, she understood what it meant to be in love… and what it meant to lose it.[/i]

[color=DAF6C7]“Do you think you’ll tell the Captain?”[/color] Not Via’s potential feelings for the man; she meant her full story. Riona never got the chance to tell Dan her own. Then again, she was prepared to abandon everything—the hate and anger; her promise—for a life with him, so maybe she never had any intention of revealing her story. Even though she knew he would’ve accepted it, just as he accepted every other aspect of her.

[color=8D3B72]What?! I-”[/color] Kalliope cut herself short as she realized she wasn’t sure what she’d actually do. [color=8D3B72]"I don’t know, actually. I think, if the right moment comes and he’s proven himself trustworthy, I will,"[/color] Kalliope replied softly, her gaze distant for a moment as she contemplated the idea of sharing her own story with the Captain. She had kept her past tightly guarded, but there was something about Sjan-dehk that made her consider opening up, letting him into the depths of her history. After all, she had already told him something she hadn’t expected just after meeting him.

[color=DAF6C7]“I hope he is,”[/color] Riona said. Then maybe Via would finally have a chance at the happiness she deserved. 

[color=8D3B72]”Either way, it takes a very special person for me to share that with and so far there’s only one person who’s gained that level of trust with me.”[/color] She finally said as she gave Riona a soft, adoring smile. 

A swell of emotions rose up within her as Via spoke those tender words. To know her beloved sister valued their bond so highly, trusted her so completely, filled Riona with joy. Yet behind that joy was an aching sadness too.

[color=8D3B72]”So has anything exciting happened since I’ve been gone?”[/color]

[color=DAF6C7]“Where to even begin!”[/color] Riona caught Via up on the happenings she missed during her absence. She touched on both the highs and lows, but at some point it devolved into venting about the insufferable snob, Lordling Leo Smithwood. How his accusation of “over-polished” floors led to the servants suffering through a two-day fast as punishment; how he viewed commoners as ants beneath his boots, his noble birth granting him license to treat them with contempt; and how Riona suspected he sent a hulking bruiser of a manservant to intimidate her in the middle of the city, a tactical show of power. Now that Lady Morrigan had specifically assigned Riona to Sh*twood, she had no doubt they intended to make her life miserable. Why else would the hag make such an arrangement?

Riona bit angrily into another cookie. [color=DAF6C7]“Gods, just thinking about that pompous, holier-than-thou—ugh!”[/color] She shoved the rest of the cookie into her mouth and washed it down with tea.

Kalliope couldn't help but chuckle as she listened to Riona's animated rant about Lordling Leo Smithwood. She could sense her sister's frustration and annoyance, and it was clear that dealing with such a pompous noble was a challenge. [color=8D3B72]"Perhaps I should pay this Lord Leo a visit and put him in his place."[/color] She suggested with a wicked grin.

[color=8D3B72]"Though you've just given me a splendid idea,"[/color] Kalliope said, her eyes sparkling mischievously. [color=8D3B72]"Come to the masquerade ball! What better opportunity to gather some valuable information on these insufferable nobles. You can take my invitation to get in since I'll be with the Captain. I'll lend you a beautiful gown, a mask, and even help you craft a disguise that will make you nearly unrecognizable. While you enjoy the festivities, which you deserve, you can discreetly spy on the guests. What do you say?"[/color] She offered, knowing that Riona's skills and intuition would be a valuable asset at the ball.

Riona blinked owlishly at Via’s proposition. Her? At a masquerade party? As a guest? The last time she attended any kind of extravagant event as an attendee was a lifetime ago—or at least, it felt that way. Did she even remember the proper etiquette for mingling in polite society? She wasn’t sure.

Still, she considered the idea, not because she actually wanted to gather information on “insufferable nobles,” but because this could help Callum. If he wanted to prove his worth to the anarchists, he needed to gather as much information involving high society as he could for them. These glittering social events would be ripe with gossip and scandal for the taking, if you kept your ear to the ground. Problem being, the masquerade party clashed with the Summer Solstice celebration he planned to take part in. Perhaps, Riona mused, she could attend in his place and give him anything she found. Until he gains (at least) Quack’s trust, Cal was going to need all the help he could get. As a bonus, she might even learn something useful to Via too.

[color=DAF6C7]“There’s something you should know.”[/color] Riona set her teacup down on its saucer with the slightest clink of porcelain. She glanced around the parlor, checking that the other customers were preoccupied in their own conversations. Satisfied they weren't listening, Riona leaned in close to Via and pitched her voice low. [color=DAF6C7]“Callum’s joined the Thornbreakers.”[/color]

The Thornbreakers. An underground group with the singular goal of destroying the kingdom’s very foundations: depose both Crowns and bring down the peerage.

A choking sound came from Kalliope as she took a sip of her tea and then began coughing as she tried to recover. A few people looked her way and she simply gave them a warning smile that had them looking away quickly. She’d worked alongside the Thornbreaker’s in the past in certain operations, yet their methods were often too extreme for her taste. The leader, in particular, was someone she found difficult to trust completely. Their goals aligned in some areas, but in others she wasn’t completely onboard. Either way, she didn’t have anything against them, but for Callum to join them concerned her.

[color=8D3B72]"The Thornbreakers?"[/color] Kalliope whispered, her voice a mixture of concern and disbelief. [color=8D3B72]"Callum joined them? That's... an interesting decision."[/color] Her mind raced, considering the implications of Callum's decision. She knew he was resourceful and determined, but the Thornbreakers were a different league altogether.

[color=8D3B72]"You know I have nothing against them, but will Quack actually accept Callum into the ranks? As much as I shouldn’t care, I am concerned for his safety."[/color] she added, her worry for the prince she’d unexpectedly befriended over the years.

A rueful smile pulled at Riona’s lips. Funny that the two people who shouldn’t care were more concerned for Cal’s safety than he was himself. She turned the empty cup over and over in her hands, the repetitive motion failing to soothe her thoughts. [color=DAF6C7]“Quack, maybe,”[/color] she said at last. [color=DAF6C7]“The others...I’m not so sure.”[/color]  The cup stilled in her hands. [color=DAF6C7]“It’s why Cal needs to secure his position. I think…”[/color] She took a breath. [color=DAF6C7]“I think we can help him get to that point faster if we pitch in on information gathering and pass it to Cal. Give him more to offer.”[/color]

She risked a glance up at her sister. [color=DAF6C7]“He’ll do this with or without us. Better we stay close.”[/color] The next words curdled in her mouth even as she gave them life. [color=DAF6C7]“We could use this too.”[/color] The thought left a bitter aftertaste, but she forced herself to swallow it down.

Kalliope sucked in a long breath as she closed her eyes, taking a moment to think about it all. [color=8D3B72]”Gods damn it…”[/color] She sighed and then met Riona's gaze, understanding the weight of the situation. Cal was stubborn and often liked to run head first into danger. He’d used his influence to free an assassin from one of the most brutal prisons and then managed to befriend her, for goodness sakes. He was reckless, but if they played their cards right, they could provide him with the support he needed to navigate it safely. [color=8D3B72]"You're right,"[/color] she said softly, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and concern. [color=8D3B72]"We'll assist him, gather information, and ensure he has every advantage possible. And if there's a way we can turn this to our advantage as well, then so be it. We've danced on the edge of shadows before; we know how to move in the darkness."[/color]

She reached out, resting her hand gently on Riona's, a silent gesture of solidarity. [color=8D3B72]"We'll keep him safe, and we'll protect our interests too. We just need to be careful, strategic. And most importantly, we need to watch each other's backs. I care about Cal, but if I had to choose between him and you, I’m choosing you every time."[/color] Kalliope's voice held a note of quiet determination. They were stepping into dangerous territory, but together, they had faced worse. The bond between the sisters, forged in the fires of adversity, was unbreakable, and it would see them through whatever challenges lay ahead.

Riona drew her bottom lip between her teeth, biting back tears. She wouldn’t cry. Not here, not now. Instead, she squeezed the hand still clasping hers and nodded.

Although Via might be a formidable assassin, more than capable of handling herself, that wouldn’t stop Riona from doing whatever it took to protect her. If things go sideways, she’ll activate it. Even if doing so meant destroying all evidence of the Danrose’s lies, as long as she dragged King Edin and Queen Alibeth down into the Hells with her, setting Via and Cal free to live the lives they chose—then the past fourteen years would’ve been worth it.

[color=DAF6C7]“Always,”[/color] she whispered. Their gazes held fast, a world of understanding between sisters. [color=DAF6C7]“We’re in this together, Via.”[/color]

The clock struck the hour, and Riona’s attention turned to the time, smirking when she met Via’s eyes again. [color=DAF6C7]“Starting with this party. If we’re shopping, dollying you up to dazzle the Captain, [i]and[/i] disguising all of [i]this[/i],”[/color] she gestured to herself, [color=DAF6C7]“we’d better hurry or there’ll only be empty wine bottles by the time we arrive.”[/color]

[color=8D3B72]”You don’t give yourself enough credit. You’re far more beautiful than even most of the noble women.”[/color] Kali said with a small laugh and shake of her head, but she was being honest. She truly didn’t think it was going to be all that difficult to doll the woman up and be turning heads. [color=8D3B72]”However, you’re right. Time waits for no one, not even us. Shall we then?”[/color] She said as she let go of Riona’s hand and pushed back her seat, ready to embark on their whirlwind preparations for the evening.[/hider]