[h3][center][color=B7AAE0]Charlotte[/color] & [color=9354FF]Fritz[/color][/center][/h3]

[hr]

Charlotte led Fritz out of the bustling ballroom and into the expansive foyer of the Damien estate. The sudden emptiness that surrounded them was a welcome yet eerie contrast to the crowded room they had just left behind. Stepping onto the polished black and white tiles she turned to face Fritz, her expression gentle and concerned. 

[color=B7AAE0] "Fritz," [/color] she began softly. She reached out a hand to gently rest on his arm, her touch light and reassuring.  [color=B7AAE0]"I want you to know I am so, so grateful for all the help you’ve given me. You’re truly a wonderful friend and it deeply troubles me to think that my actions might have caused you even a modicum of discomfort. Please know that I am ready to listen.”[/color]

Ryn reciprocated the gesture with an equally gentle smile, a reflection of the sentiment offered. [color=9354FF]“I’m afraid I’ve done little to deserve such praise and gratitude. … Thank you.”[/color] The smile waned, a shadow of sadness creeping into his expression, as he continued, [color=9354FF]“But, if you genuinely consider me a friend, why did you say you were alright when we asked how you were doing?”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0] “Ah.”[/color] "she murmured softly, a flicker of understanding dawning in her eyes.

[color=B7AAE0]"I wanted to be..."[/color] she began, her voice trailing off slightly. [color=B7AAE0]"Alright that is. I may perhaps have been in a state of disarray more than I was willing to admit, not just to you… But also to myself. I had intended to share my experience and for some reason I simply did not. ”[/color] 

After a momentary introspection, a soft sigh escaped her lips as she confessed, [color=B7AAE0]"The truth is, it's been a while since I've had consistent companionship from others besides those within my household. “[/color] 

She paused, fumbling with a lock of her hair as she added,  [color=B7AAE0]“ I suppose you could say I'm a bit out of practice. I apologize for not being forthright with you." [/color]

[color=9354FF]“... ‘Friendship is a double-edged sword.’”[/color] Ryn repeated the words he said to her a few days ago. [color=9354FF]“It takes courage to let someone in, especially after enduring heartbreak and disappointment.”[/color]

He gazed at Lady Vikena with empathy in his eyes. [color=9354FF]“I cannot fault you for being cautious. We all have our pasts, our scars that shape us. And Creators know that there are things I’m withholding from you too.”[/color] As he placed a hand over his heart, Ryn closed his eyes. [color=9354FF]“I am afraid of being hurt and hurting others.”[/color] When he opened his eyes, this time, he offered a bittersweet smile. [color=9354FF]“But… I also know I have to take the first step.”[/color]

Ryn extended his hand, an invitation. [color=9354FF]“Will you walk this path with me, Charlotte? It would mean a lot to me if we could learn to trust and confide in each other, knowing that we have each other’s best interests at heart… What do you say?”[/color]

Charlotte looked down at his hand, her gaze softening and a small smile forming.  With a gentle yet decisive movement, she reached out and clasped his hand in hers, intertwining their fingers. [color=B7AAE0] “Of course, Fritz…  I suppose I can then take the next step and tell you what was upsetting me earlier.”[/color] She freed his hand after the moment had passed.

Soothingly rubbing her own forearm all the while, she explained, [color=B7AAE0] “...Earlier, the ballroom seemed to visually change before my eyes. It was as if I was dreaming.”[/color] She paused to see his expression before continuing, [color=B7AAE0]"I-I don't know how to explain it," [/color]  she began, her words faltering as she struggled to find the right description. [color=B7AAE0]"It was like... like I was transported to another time, another place. The room, the colors, the music—it all felt so vivid, so real. "[/color]

Her gaze drifted into the distance, as if she could still see the phantom figures twirling in the ballroom of her memory. [color=B7AAE0]"... This man looked at me with those familiar brown eyes... and for a moment, I felt like I was seeing a ghost. But he wasn't a ghost, he was right there…reaching out to me."[/color]

Charlotte's hand instinctively slid up to touch her own, as if to reassure herself that she was still anchored in the present. [color=B7AAE0]"But then, just as quickly as he appeared, he was gone and the ballroom was normal again."[/color]

Ryn’s thumb rubbed his upper lip as he listened to Lady Vikena’s—Charlotte’s account. [color=9354FF]“Has this ever happened before?”[/color]

She shook her head to indicate it had not.

His mind wandered down a list of possibilities for a few silent moments. The detail about the “familiar brown eyes” in particular drew his attention. She recognized the man and yet was not able to identify him. Implying that she did not actually know the man… or she had forgotten about him.

A sudden chill ran down Ryn’s spine at the word that had long haunted him seemed to be cropping up over the past few days. “Forgotten.” Was Black Rose here? It could explain the vision… If so, what did they want with Charlotte? Was it only Charlotte they wanted?

Ryn pulled out the small box from his pocket. [color=9354FF]“There’s something I need to show you.”[/color] He placed his hand over the lid while he stared at Charlotte straight in the eyes. [color=9354FF]“But before I do, you should know that when Ms. Delilah finds out I did exactly what she didn’t want me to do, she’ll chase me down and there’s a distinct possibility no one may ever find my body. I’d like you to ensure my epitaph is awe-inspiring.”[/color]

As Fritz's words hung in the air, Charlotte's brows furrowed in thought as she fixated on the box.
Her curiosity was evident in her expression. In reaction to his last comment, her lips curved into a wry smile, a glimmer of amusement dancing in her eyes. [color=B7AAE0]"Rest assured, Fritz," [/color] she replied, her voice tinged with determination,[color=B7AAE0]" your epitaph will be so inspirational that even the gods themselves will envy it."[/color]

With a short laugh, Ryn took off his spectacles carefully and handed them over to her. [color=9354FF]“Put these on,”[/color] he instructed. He walked to the entrance of the ballroom and paused for Charlotte to follow after him. When she approached, he positioned himself behind her, leaning in to whisper, [color=9354FF]“Do you see anything out of the ordinary?”[/color] Shaking her head no, Ryn opened the small box he carried and extracted a single lens. The enchanted lens slid into place.

And the world changed.

The room erupted into a symphony of colors, each guest bathed in a unique aura that pulsed and shimmered with ethereal energy. Among the spectrum, she noticed that pink and white hues were the most prevalent colors enveloping their forms.

As her gaze wandered, Charlotte observed the subtle dance of shades, with yellows, blues, oranges, and greens emerging in a mesmerizing display. Each aura carried its own distinct character and appearance, even varying in size. Occasionally, she caught glimpses of red and purple, though they were far less common, lending an intriguing depth to the kaleidoscope of colors.

It was beautiful.

[color=B7AAE0] “Is this… a kaleidoscope of sorts?”[/color] She whispered in awe.

[color=9354FF]“I suppose, in a way it is. But unless I’m missing something, I wouldn’t think a simple kaleidoscope would make Ms. Delilah so worried for your well-being.”[/color] Combined with what he saw of Charlotte’s magicae, Ms. Delilah’s reaction to the topic of magic convinced Ryn that she not only knew more about the subject than she let on, but she also knew exactly what Charlotte was capable of. Something involving Charlotte must have happened to make Ms. Delilah so adamant about steering her mistress—her family—down a life untouched by magic.

[color=gray][i]Impossible.[/i][/color]

Ryn gestured for Charlotte to look up at the ceiling above them. [color=9354FF]“Do you see how there are hardly any colors up there? That’s because the colors are coming from the people. What you’re seeing is magicae. Magical energy unique to each…”[/color] The count paused for a moment to choose the most accurate word. [color=9354FF]“…entity.”[/color] He studied Charlotte’s reaction to this information. [color=9354FF]“These lenses simply refracts it into a visible form.”[/color] 

Charlotte’s gaze slid to her friends, picking them out one by one slowly and fixating on them for a brief moment. [color=B7AAE0] “I wonder if the colors signify something… Perhaps the amount of magicae?”[/color] She thoughtfully mused, eventually her eyes shifting toward him with curiosity—to see nothing. The world had gone back to normal. 

Ryn’s expression lit up with excitement. [color=9354FF]“You’re very perceptive! It’s believed that hues represent a person’s ambitions. The only known exception is those with witchblood.”[/color] The words tumbled out faster than usual, but he was mindful to keep his voice no louder than a whisper. [color=9354FF]“There’s the imprint, or residue, of magicae you have to consider too, though. Did you see the darker-colored aura attached to Lord Smithwood? That’s most likely someone else’s magicae.”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0] “Their ambitions. “[/color] Charlotte repeated thoughtfully and tapped her chin. [color=B7AAE0]  “ I did. It does seem probable that someone did a spell on Leo so it makes sese. “[/color] After a pause, she curiously asked, [color=B7AAE0]  “What color is yours?”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Currently? You’ll have to tell me that. Magicae can change. Over time and after an event that significantly impacts you as a person. I’ve only been paying attention to other’s magicae.”[/color] He jokingly posed for Charlotte while she checked, then he realized something. [color=9354FF]“Have you checked yours?”[/color] 

[color=B7AAE0] “No, I did not get the chance.”[/color]

Glancing at his watch, he saw how much time had passed. [color=9354FF]“Oh, I’m sorry. I should’ve mentioned the enchantment’s limitation.”[/color] Not wanting to linger too long at the ballroom entrance, he led them back to a more secluded area. [color=9354FF]“The lenses can handle a certain amount of magicae exposure before turning into regular glass. If the magicae is too strong the enchantment barely lasts a second.”[/color] He pointed at the spectacles. [color=9354FF]“I can switch out that lens for a fresh one if you’d like.”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0]“Yes. I must admit I am awfully curious…”[/color]

He nodded. After exchanging the lenses Ryn took both of her hands and raised them so Charlotte could see both magicae at the same time.

Although to say “only both of their magicae” would be inaccurate.

For what surrounded the count was a menagerie of magicae. Distinctly different magical energies vied for dominance. The spells—curses or blessings—of others clung unyieldingly onto him.

Ryn remained silent as his black eyes remained fixed on Charlotte, full of worry. His grip on her hands tightened a little. [color=9354FF]“What… do you see?”[/color]

Charlotte’s eyes widened with surprise as her gaze locked on Fritz first, [color=B7AAE0] “Oh my… Yours has such a variety of colors… You must have many different ambitions I suppose or…”[/color] A frown slowly graced her face as she recalled what he had said about Leo’s aura. [color=B7AAE0] "Oh no, Fritz. I hope there isn't anyone trying to come after you, is there?"[/color] She anxiously squeezed his hand.

[color=9354FF][i]A “variety of colors”... not just one.[/i][/color] They were still with him and he was still him. Relief rushed through Ryn, even as he confirmed Charlotte’s concern. [color=9354FF]“There is. Do you remember our conversation when I walked you home after the royal ball? You said that your mother warned you that it was too dangerous for you to wander about at night, and I said it can be difficult for certain people to walk out in the open, no matter the hour. For me, that place has always been Caesonia, especially here in Sorian, so close to the throne.”[/color]

Ryn studied his hand, imagining a myriad of magicae swarming his being. [color=9354FF]“As for these…These are the consequences of my choices both good and bad. All I can do is carry them with me, and try to make the choices mean something.”[/color] A sad half-smile tugged at his lips. [color=9354FF]“People might disagree, and it’s not like I have evidence, but I believe not all magical imprints come from spells. I think the intense sentiment of others, their spirit you can call it, can also leave a mark on you. And that holds as much power as any magic… I have an obligation to these people to press onward, no matter what.”[/color] Even if it means relinquishing the essence of Ryn. For Ryn, as a person, was inconsequential in the face of his people’s welfare.

Charlotte listened intently, her expression softening with compassion. [color=B7AAE0] “I hope you press on for the sake of yourself as well, Fritz. And whenever you’re comfortable, maybe you can share more about who would target you and why here in Sorian that is? If I can be of assistance, I will do what I can to help protect you.”[/color] Her attention then shifted to her own aura, and a subtle unease flickered across her features.  

[color=B7AAE0]"There's something about mine that seems…”[/color] She hesitated, searching for the right word, but instead decided to pose a question.

[color=B7AAE0]"Do you happen to know what each color signifies?" [/color] She inquired, her tone tinged with curiosity and a hint of apprehension.

[color=9354FF]“I’m not comfortable going into the details here, so I’ll keep it short. People with white magicae aren’t proficient with magic. Some say that it’s because they ‘lack of ambition’ or are satisfied with their life. Pink magicae holders have mundane ambitions. Red magicae makes the person susceptible to magical addiction and their ambition tends to revolve around vengeance. Oranges’ ambition is related to feelings, like wanting to be loved. Yellows desire freedom. Greens crave power or wealth. Blues are… very unhappy.”

After listing the common magicae colors, he paused for a moment. [color=9354FF]“Witchbloods have purple magicae. They come from a bloodline of witches. It’s said the brighter the purple, the greater the power and longer the witch lineage.”[/color]

When Ryn paused again, he squeezed Charlotte’s hands, preemptively comforting her. [color=9354FF]“Dark witches have black magicae and are dangerously powerful. You have to be very careful with these people… they’re not well known for their kindness.”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0] “ Oh… “[/color] Charlotte's voice trailed off as she absorbed Fritz's explanation. She glanced down at her hands, feeling a weight of uncertainty settling in her chest. The world she thought she knew was far more complex and nuanced than she had ever imagined.

Despite the feelings swirling within her, Charlotte turned her gaze back to Fritz, offering a tentative smile tinged with gratitude. [color=B7AAE0]"Thank you for sharing this with me,"[/color] she said sincerely, her tone warm with appreciation.[color=B7AAE0] "It's… a lot to take in, but I'm glad to know more about it."[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Ms. Delilah may disagree with you on that.”[/color] Ryn hesitated. [color=9354FF]“Charlotte. I suspect Ms. Delilah and your parents knew about this in some capacity. In fact, it’s possible there are people outside of your household who know too. That vision you saw… could’ve been a magic user reaching out to you. What I’m worried about is if they’re with Black Rose.”[/color]

A frown creased Charlotte’s brow as she considered his words. She then asked with a tone laced with some apprehension, [color=B7AAE0] “ But what would the Black Rose want with me?”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Well, based on what we know so far, I can only speculate.”[/color] Ryn shrugged his shoulders. [color=9354FF]“They could’ve caught wind of you asking around about their party. Perhaps they noticed how charming you are and they couldn’t resist extending an invitation to their mysterious and not at all shady party.”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0] “I am determined to attend the next one, invitation or not.”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Not without me or Lord Smithwood, I hope.”[/color] 

Charlotte nodded distractedly, continuing,[color=9354FF]“It could have less to do with you specifically, and more about who you are related to or have ties with… Maybe it’s about your parents. There’s also a chance you’ve forgotten something that happened to you which would explain their interest in you.”[/color] Ryn met Charlotte’s eyes. [color=9354FF]“Knowing what you know now...  do you think the truth you’ve been searching for all this time might be magic-related?”[/color]

Charlotte crossed her arms thoughtfully. [color=B7AAE0]  “I … I have no idea. I don’t remember my parents having anything to do with magic. This week’s really the first I’ve seen evidence of it. “[/color] She said, her gaze lowering,  [color=B7AAE0]  “Given what’s happened, I’m almost sure the truth must have something to do with it.”[/color]

At first, he said nothing as he watched her movements. Then Ryn offered a measured nod, [color=9354FF]“Whatever the reason, if they are here, it’d be wise to stay alert and try to avoid being alone.”[/color] Though should they resort to magic the advantage of numbers might scarcely tip the scales in her favor.

When she said nothing in response, he took note of her silence. [color=9354FF]“Charlotte, can I ask a few favors?”[/color]

She frowned, drumming her fingers on her arm. Her eyes shifted to his and she replied with a smile,  [color=B7AAE0] “Certainly.”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Please don’t tell us everything’s okay if it isn’t.”[/color]

She took a deep breath, searching for the right words.

Finally, Charlotte decided to be more honest with him than she ever had been, silently hoping he’d understand her wish at the end of her statement,  [color=B7AAE0] "I don't know if things are okay... Not yet, at least,"[/color] she replied, her expression grave as she mulled over her thoughts. [color=B7AAE0] "Calbert's behavior this morning was... peculiar, to say the least. For instance, he handed out multiple invitations and then had his staff member Henry hand out three, four....? And the man seemed to have a mental list in his head come to think of it, the way he went from person to person without a second thought. Calbert’s certainly up to something and feeling smug of himself tonight. He made be hiding himself with a mask but that mask says what he’s feeling more than the expression behind it ever could.”[/color]

Her countenance grew apologetic as she confessed,  [color=B7AAE0] “I have a plan to get him to spill the beans, however, it’s risky and it’s something I must do alone.”[/color]

Ryn’s eyes grew wide in surprise before he chuckled, [color=9354FF]“Every now and then you really surprise me, Charlotte.”[/color] The smile faded, but it lingered at the fringes. [color=9354FF]“Is this something you [i]must[/i] do on your own or is it something you [i]believe[/i] you must do alone?”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0] “I must do it alone.” [/color] She clarified with conviction.

[color=9354FF]“In which case.”[/color] Ryn extended his hand, palm upturned. [color=9354FF]“May I have a lock of your hair?”[/color] He knew how strange the request must seem. Or perhaps not, given Charlotte’s newfound openness about magic. [color=9354FF]“I trust you,”[/color] he continued, [color=9354FF]“but if I don’t see you leave this estate and get home safely, I will use it to find you and call in the cavalry.”[/color]

Charlotte was thoughtful for a moment before she plucked a hair from her head with a small wince. She offered it toward him. [color=B7AAE0] “Fair enough.“[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Thank you.”[/color] Ryn carefully wrapped her hair in a handkerchief before storing it away in his inner pocket.

[color=9354FF]“My second favor,”[/color] He reminded Charlotte. [color=9354FF]“Is that you don’t forget that we’re in this together. We might not be able to do what you must do alone, but we can support you so you successfully can. It would mean a lot to me, and I’m sure Lord Smithwood, if you relied on us more.”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0] “Really?  … I do appreciate you two. I will keep you both looped in best I can.”[/color] She smiled faintly. Charlotte wasn’t so used to people so adamant about caring about her; it felt kind of nice. [color=B7AAE0] “I will be okay. I promise. I just truly believe it’s less risky for me rather than anyone else to go  through with this plan.”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Is there anything we can do for you in the meantime?”[/color]

[color=B7AAE0] “...Please look after Leo and Olivia in my brief absence.”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“You’re greatly overestimating my level of maturity if you believe Lord Smithwood and Ms. Olivia need looking after, but I don’t.”[/color] Ryn chuckled and nodded. [color=9354FF]“There are a few people I would like to talk to while I have the chance, but I will try to keep an eye on them as best as I can.”[/color]

[color=9354FF]“Be careful, Charlotte, and good luck.”[/color] He added, [color=9354FF]“If things go bad, don’t hesitate to scream for help.”[/color]