[IC] 🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕 (Page 115)

color:ffce00
-Grand Ball Room-
-outfit-
-Interaction:@Remram Askel @CitrusArms Stratya-

 Striking 

Indeed. That is a fine way of putting it. Striking. A part of him wants to walk back towards Nora, and pull her into the spotlight for the world to see. To let her ethereal beauty shine. Another part of him wants to simply exist by her side, to see the world as she does, to experience life alongside her.

Not much more of what was said between Stratya and Askel made it into Munir's mind. Munir's full attention only returned to the pair when Askel turned around and offered another plate of Varian treats.  "Beer hall experience, eh? That sounds interesting. Though, I am sure I will be of no match to you, Askel. My palate isn't the most accustomed to beer and ale. But I'm sure the experience would be wonderful either way. In return, if we do make it over to the table of my home country, you two must allow me the same courtesy that you have shown me, and allow me to offer you the tastes of Alidasht."  Munir said, voice genuine and inviting.

Upon tasting what Askel had offered, Munir nodded a few times and allowed himself to be immersed in the food for a moment. The sour punch of the fermented cabbage was pleasant to the tongue as an accompaniment to the unctuousness of the sausage. The fats from the meat coating his mouth before being lifted from the sourness of the cabbage.  "I see what you mean now, Askel. A cold pint of ale with what is on this plate would be divine. Mead, on the other hand, while divine in it's own right, might be too indulgent even for me. What do you say, captain Durmand?" Munir said, taking another bite and glancing at Nora, and somehow both wishing she would catch his glimpse and for her to not do so... 

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Time: 6pm
Location: Ravenwood warehouse > Ballroom
Interactions: @AuthenticTomb Sylvia, @Tae Ranya
Mentions: @princess King Eden, @Lava Alckon Drake, Thea @Tae, 
outfit:Traditional Ravenwood Formal Wear

The rhythmic clink-clink of jeweler’s hammers and the scent of fresh cedar shavings filled the cavernous warehouse, a stark contrast to the high-stakes espionage unfolding in the back corner office. To any passing inspector, the Ravenwood Trade and Artisan Guild was a beehive of legitimate industry; at the central benches, master smiths meticulously set stones into silver filigree while tailors draped fine Varian silks. Yet the stacks of crates lining the walls held more than just raw materials—they formed a tactical labyrinth, shielding the guild’s true purpose from prying Caesonian eyes.

In the dimly lit office, the air was thick with the smell of old parchment and cold tea. Roman Ravenwood stood over a sprawling map of the capital, his raven-crested pauldron catching the low light as he leaned forward. Surrounding him was his inner circle, a jagged assembly of talent: Sven, whose hand never strayed far from his sword hilt; Astri, the shaman and priestess, who ran her fingers over smooth stones etched with runes; Sylvie, their lore keeper, who carefully sorted intelligence reports across the table; and Gloin, who chewed his lip as he calculated the gold and resources an operation like theirs required.

Erik, Roman’s handler, tapped a charcoal-stained finger on a specific dockside district. The peaceful treaty between Varian and Caesonia made this a delicate dance; one wrong move would be an international incident. They would all be burned and cast aside to the wolves. This was a private venture for Roman, with no ties to the crown. They weren't just fighting a syndicate; they were dismantling a shadow empire hidden behind the "legitimate" veneer of the Black Rose Trading Company. The mission was clear: pull the right thread without bringing the whole kingdom down on their heads.

The air in the office grew heavy as the map on the table became buried under scraps of parchment, old documents detailing sewer systems, and charcoal sketches of the city's underbelly. Roman leaned heavily on the desk, the gold-inlaid raven on his shoulder glinting in the low lamplight as he looked at his advisors. He was already dressed for the upcoming ball, his finery a strange contrast to the grim work at hand.

"Sure, we’re chasin' ghosts in a kingdom that'd sooner die than admit it’s haunted," Erik muttered, his thick Irish accent heavy in his low voice.

Sven sighed in frustration, his eyes hard. "Ve still haven't found anyting on our missing strike team, or de carriage dey vere meant to intercept. Our spies vere at least right dat one of de carriages vas carrying someting important. De Black Rose has better security dan ve anticipated. De next approach should focus more on stealth and striking quick… at least dose men vere branded, and von't be able to say much of anyting."

Glóin smoothed out a crinkled report, his brow furrowed. "This report about Hafiz is concerning. It vill need to be vetted like everything else. Ja, at least it’s something new to look into."

Sylvie tapped a series of old architectural drafts they were able to ‘acquire’ the morning after Drunkards Day. "We reviewed the available documents. The sewers are built on older foundations. If the architecture mirrors Emberstone, old tunnels exist beneath them. There is a good chance they are being used by the Black Rose."

Astri closed her eyes, her fingers hovering over a set of stones before picking one up. "The shadows are thick there. They're no' just tradin' gold; there's dark forces at work. Secrets traded for lives an' blood."

Erik stepped into the light, his expression grim. "Which brings us to the trial, so. We’ve the documents sorted and the witnesses lined up. Them photos we took are still curing, but they should make for solid evidence." He took his time to light a tobacco pipe, then continued. "We’ll be pressin' on with the second part of the plan, no matter how the trial shakes out. With the queen gone, the king is a wild card all over again."

Roman looked at the scattered notes—best guesses, theories, rumors, and the haunting silence of his missing men. “My father has some sense of humor. We will keep up our search. After the trial, we can plan for a few undercity excursions. Though, you might be following my sister at that point.” Roman knew the plan was dangerous, even if he did survive it.

Erik nodded as the others continued their conversations. "Right then, you've a ball to be gettin' to."

There was a moment of tension between them, but it passed quickly. Roman was about to leave when Erik spoke up again.

"And Roman. Mind what I told ye about Violet."

"Lord Roman Ravenwood," the herald announced at the main door.

Roman strode into the opulent ballroom, projecting confidence with every step. His forest-green cloak, the color of ancient woods, flowed softly behind him, its heavy velvet folds trimmed with intricate gold knotwork that echoed the design on his dark leather brigandine. The polished metal of his single pauldron, embossed with the proud raven crest of his house, gleamed beneath the chandeliers.

With a measured stride, he approached King Eden, offering a respectful bow. His confident smile faltered for only a fraction of a second when he caught the King's eye. The events of the morning spoke volumes. If the queen could be executed, so could he.

"Your Resplendence, Your Highnesses," he said, acknowledging Eden before nodding to Wulfric and Auguste. "A truly magnificent affair, Your Majesty."

His smile returned genuinely when his eyes met Alexander’s, a smirk that crept up the corner of his mouth for just a moment. Then he took a polite step back, turned, and waded into the sea of people.

Navigating the crowded ballroom, he found he was a little later than the others, just as he expected. There were quite a few familiar faces. He first noted the smiling expressions of his royal charges, accompanied by their ever-present mountain standing off to the side. A large contingency of royalty and nobility from Alidasht was present as well.

Another pair caught his eye: Drake Edwards and Thea Smithwood. It was good to see the man out of the hospital, and better still to see Thea at his side. He wouldn't lie to himself; he was worried about her. He was worried about her brother, too, who he could only assume was currently making a fool of himself somewhere. It wasn't lost on him that Callum was still missing, as was Riona. He could only hope there wasn't a connection there.

Of the people he actively wanted to speak with, he noticed quite a few had already paired up. The Briar Knight would be good company, but Roman needed to keep up appearances whether he wanted to or not. As his eyes scanned the myriads of faces, his gaze settled on two women, and he smiled. It had been quite a while since he had spoken to her, so why not?

Roman didn't force his way through the mingling nobility. Given his bulk, he stepped carefully, offering an occasional polite "excuse me" or "pardon me" until he found his intended duo near a table of exquisite desserts: Princess Sylvia and Shehzadi Ranya.

Sylvia was dressed in a billowing red and black gown, a striking contrast to the flowing light blue and gold embroidery of Ranya’s attire. It had been some time since he had seen either of them. He had crossed paths with Ranya once or twice in polite passing during trade negotiations in Alidasht, and he usually only saw Sylvia when he managed a brief hello while visiting the royal palace.

Still, he maintained his composed confidence as he stepped up to the pair with a warm smile.

“Princess Sylvia Camilla. Shehzadi Ranya Al-Kadir.” He offered them both a respectful bow, deferring to their royal stations. “Lord Roman Ravenwood, at your service. I do hope you don’t mind the intrusion, but I dare say the two of you are the most striking pair in the ballroom tonight.”

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@Remram Nolan
@Lava Alckon Drake

Gideon had remained where he stood while the brothers exchanged their remarks. Nolan’s teasing earned the faintest softening at the edge of his mouth. Soft and subtle as the smile was, it carried with it an air of pride towards his sons. As soon as there was an opening, he addressed his heir. 

“Drake,” he said simply, inclining his head in greeting as his eyes passed over the young man in a brief but unmistakably thorough inspection. He did not make a spectacle of the gesture, but the loving assessment was there all the same. 

“It is good to see you on your feet, son.” His gaze shifted back between the two of them for a moment longer, watching the easy exchange that had already begun. Whatever weight the day had placed upon him, the sight of them together eased some small part of it.

“Stay close to one another tonight,” he added quietly, his voice low enough that it would not travel beyond their small circle. “These gatherings have a habit of becoming less pleasant the longer they last. Especially lately. If you need me, I will not be far.”

Across the ballroom, a pause opened in a conversation near the center of the crowd.  Victoria Edwards stood among a cluster of nobles, her posture as poised and deliberate as ever. For the briefest moment she looked toward Gideon. It was not a wave, nor a gesture that anyone unfamiliar with her would recognize. She simply held his gaze a fraction longer than courtesy required, her eyes sharpening with quiet expectation. To anyone else it would have meant nothing, but to Gideon, it was an unmistakable beckoning of his presence… One he would do well to answer. 

His attention returned to the boys.

“I would stay a moment longer with you, my sons, but I fear this is not the time for your father to hover. Plus, it seems your mother requires me,” he said calmly, allowing a knowing chuckle to escape him. 

He rested a hand briefly on each of their shoulders, a gesture both reassuring and grounding in intention.

“Enjoy the evening, if you can manage it. I know recent days have been trying, but us Edwards have built a tradition of perseverance. And remember… I am so, very proud of you both.”

With that he stepped away, the dark sweep of his cloak shifting behind him as he moved through the ballroom crowd toward Victoria, leaving the brothers to their conversation beneath the music and chandelier light.

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Knight Devout
Captain Stratya Durmand

Time: 10th Ignis, Evening
Location: Castle Ballroom - Starry Night Ball
Attire: Military Dress
Accent: Thick Scottish
Interactions: Askel @Remram, Munir @Infinite Cosmos
Mentions: 

Askel was going to play coy. Oh, fine, she wouldn’t press him. Her eyes glanced at Munir as he seemed to miss a question from her, too. Something about this was incredibly infuriating. And something about Askel’s wording put salt in the wound. He was lucky he’d already paid her a compliment.. that Stratya was now realizing had been paid more to her wardrobe than her self.

Since when did she care about stuff like that, anyway? This was unlike her. Something was getting away from her. She was pretty stressed, to put it lightly. Askel turned around to catch the tail end of a glare that looked like he'd just slapped her, though perhaps less severe. Her eyes turned to the glass of wine in her hand as she swirled her thoughts gently, a sigh leaving through her nose before she took a sip. Stratya reminded herself of the favor he was doing her, distracting her with food, as she accepted the plate from him, “thank you, Askel.” He was smitten, and it was easy to see why, she couldn’t blame him. The young lady Munir had his eye on was no less attractive, but perhaps the effect of this Ranya’s manner of dress was breaking through Askel’s practiced grace. It was.. provocative.

The idea of a beer hall was also rather appealing to Stratya’s sensibilities. It sounded rather like a tavern, or maybe a larger, professional version of an ale house? “Aaaye, a beer hall sounds like a grreat time. I would, also, love a guided tour of yerr homeland’s cuisine, Shezade Munir. If ourr appetites survive the savorry journey thrrough the Varrian offerrings.”

Captain Durmand still couldn’t really think of anything else, if she tried, if she were to stir conversation, herself. She could not escape the simple fact The Queen, her Liege, was.. no more. So suddenly, so horribly. Thinking about it was going to betray her, and Askel was trying so hard to distract her. She’d just pretend like she was in the classiest tavern she’d ever seen and forget about it for a little while. She had to, for so many reasons.

She hadn’t even realized she was putting food in her mouth when she took the bite. She must have put the.. sour kraut.. with the sausage. “Mm,” she nodded along, chewing thoughtfully before swallowing. “aye, I get it. Though, I suppose I rrather like an indulgent meal. I think I might drrink mead with anything, though.” Stratya offered Munir a smile, before her attention was caught by an approaching servant, ah, two. One of them had a mini keg, the other had small crystal vessels.

Stratya looked at the wine glass she’d set down to facilitate eating, then the mead she’d requested. “Erh. I suppose ye were just sayin’ mead would be too much for yersen, with this course,” the woman offered Munir a sheepish grin. She shrugged her shoulders as she turned back to the servants, still looking apologetic,  “and fool me, I started a glass of wine. Haahh, just set it down, lads. We’ll have some in a bit, perrhaps, thank ye for finding it.” She made eye contact with the servants as she said that, motioning subtly for them to approach. She slipped them a few silver each as they did. She or Askel could surely manage holding the keg. Actually, that might be more difficult with the long mantle she wore. She could detach the mantle and leave her boar caplet.

Yes, perhaps she would. Stratya set her plate down for the moment. “One morre thing, please. This mantle is too much tae eat with. Would you catch it and take it frrom me, please?” She slid a hand under her caplet on one side, fiddling with something underneath. She held it, once she was done fiddling, and did the same on the other side, before checking behind her for the servant, “rready?” She received confirmation and released the securing straps, letting part of her wardrobe fall away. “Ooh, that’s so much lighterr, too. You’d be surprised how much that thing weighs.” Through a chuckle, she continued, “not as much as arrmor, of course, but enough.” She resumed the current course of meal.

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Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Interactions:@AuthenticTomb Aslam and @Potter Kira

Amira had never even considered that someone might be waiting for her. That wasn't how it went in romance stories at all. The prince charming was supposed to turn up and sweep her off her feet, no? Ask her for a first dance, maybe if they were a little daring, her first kiss.

Aslam's words made sense, but they conflicted with the beautiful love story she had written in her head over the last few weeks. 

The moment of contemplation of maybe this was the reality of a ball quickly, was replaced by embarrassed panic as her words came spilling out as she complimented the stranger's outfit. The self assured reaction of her cousin did anything but calm down her mortification. 

Aslam was so cool and collected, which made her awkward self all the more obvious.

"Please excuse me," she said quietly with a little curtsy before hurrying away from the scene. Almost running away from the two, she quickly made her way to be somewhere else. Looking back for a moment, she looked at the two composed, beautiful people before she had left together. Then her panicked exit was suddenly stopped as she came crashing into the back of someone.  

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Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Attire: Dress
Interactions: @Chrys Amira
Mentions: @Infinite Cosmos Munir
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


Nora had spent the past several minutes of her time at the ball trying to calm her own over-active imagination at the idea of dancing with someone as attractive as Munir. Her mind spun with stories, her dress swaying as they danced, his hands holding her... Whisking her away from all of this, talking in quiet, whispers and promises... 

Nora shook her head vehemently, as if doing so would shake the thoughts right out of her head. She shouldn't get her hopes up like that, he was just being polite. There was no way he'd do any of that tonight and she wasn't even truly sure she wanted him to besides. Still... She couldn't stop the way her mind imagined their faces coming closer together... quiet and full of desir-

"Oh-!" Nora gasped, feeling a weight of something hit her in the back. She turned, face still flushed red from her own thoughts. She'd been so lost in her own thoughts she hadn't even been paying attention and now she was sure she'd upset someone.  "I'm so sorry to have been in your way!" She called out, bowing as deeply as she could manage. Hopefully that would be enough?

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Askel Camila

Location: Grand Ballroom 
Attire: Starry Night Attire
Interactions:@CitrusArms Stratya @Infinite CosmosMunir
Mentions:@ReusableSword Roman

It only took a split second to realize that Askel, in a moment of failing lucidity, that he had unintentionally insulted Stratya. In fact, he had only complimented the attire rather than the person that was actually wearing it. It could only be described as a faux pas of great magnitude and frankly incredibly rude to his friend who was obviously grieving. 

Just stab her in the back and add more salt to the wound why don't you?

"The weight I can imagine; it takes effort to look like that, he chuckled. Askel looked a bit more thoughtful and offered her a much more apologetic smile.  By the way, I have failed to mention how radiant you look this evening; I imagine that you've caught the stares of many suitors already. I'd be insulted on your behalf if no one approached you for a dance tonight."

Hopefully this would have mended this bit of awkwardness due to his carelessness though he was not given a moment to think about it. His attention was torn elsewhere.

"Lord Roman Ravenwood," the herald announced at the main door.

Askel's focus fell upon the behemoth of a man, watching him with great familiarity as he approached Sylvia and Ranya though his gaze, even in temperament, held a hint of worry.

His attention was brought back to his present company and bowed his head to them, "My apologies, I was distracted by the appearance of my friend, Lord Ravenwood. I was not expecting to see him here, considering the allegations."

It made sense though; he would have only looked more guilty if he hid in some hole puttering away at some jewelry. Still, he didn't like that Roman was there.

There were many reasons as to why this trip to Caesonia had made him uneasy; the kingdom itself was a den of crime and neglect and his brother's sudden urge to come to this Courting Season was suspicious even to someone like him who often had wool pulled over his eyes by his siblings. However, the presence of Roman Ravenwood was  cause for concern. Now, Askel held nothing against Roman and in fact respected him. However, he knew the man. He knew what Roman's true occupation was, hell, they have worked together on occasion so Askel could say with a comfortable amount of authority on the matter that if Roman was in Caesonia then he was there for a reason and it certainly was not to find a bride. In other words, Roman was working on something and that meant, plainly speaking, trouble.  

However, Askel maintained his pleasant smile. "Well, if we tour the entire table tonight we'd leave no room for the rest. While I've personally been able to sample your local cuisine during my days journeying Alidasht, I cannot say I have had a meal fit for a Sultan," he half joked. 

There it was again though, that gnawing sensation in his gut. Even as a prince, he was still a knight and the presence of Roman reminded him of that. Even now, he could not allow himself to grow too comfortable.

"Forgive my sudden rudeness, but please start without me. I can feel my legs growing stiff standing around like this. I'll just take a lap around." Askel gave them a polite bow before he disengaged with his companions to walk around the room. 

He wanted to find some time to speak to Roman to get a grasp of what the situation was, but this was not the appropriate moment for it. For now, he would just do as he said and occasionally stop to make polite small talk and greet other dignitaries while his gaze looked out for anyone out of place. However, he accidentally bumped the shoulders of someone as he removed himself from a brief conversation.

"Pardon my carelessness. Are you okay?" The knightly prince inquired.

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-Grand Ball Room-
-outfit-
-Interaction:@Remram Askel @CitrusArms Stratya-

 "Ah. Indeed. That mantle does look rather heavy. I hadn't voiced my opinion as I thought it was just a formal way of dressing where you're from, captain Durmand." Munir commented as Stratya asked one of her squires to take away her mantle. Wearing a full set of weapons, ceremonial or not, has to be rather cumbersome. This was to be a dance after all. Unless Stratya had intended on attending as event security, which does not seem to be the case as she was literally just mingling with two noblemen, and not standing guard...

The courtiers announced the arrival of several other guests, amongst which was Roman Ravenwood. A man he has met previously, in a time that seemed too long ago. He heard Askel mention knowing Roman as well. Before he could ask how the pair know each other, Askel stated that he was going to take a lap around, to stretch his legs.  "Mm. That's a wonderful idea, Askel. This is, after all, a party. And one certainly should not simply stand around at a party. Am I right?"  He said, giving Stratya a jovial slap on the shoulder.  "I think I will make my way to see if they have made a mockery of the foods and fares of my home. You both have the Shahzade's invite to join me if you so choose."  He said to both Stratya and Askel, giving both a small wink followed by a polite bow before turning and making his way to the Alidasht table.

While walking, he hadn't realized that his eyes naturally found their way to Nora. What was she doing? Who would she mingle with? Did she have other family members in attendance? The veil he wore while speaking with Nora has been taken down now. Matter of fact, he does not remember when did it come down. 

The refreshment. He just remembered he had excused himself from Nora but told her he would bring her refreshment. His eyes scanned the servers, weaving amongst the guests. Just as he was about to flag one down to take a glass of lemonade, he heard Nora's voice. It sounded... panicked? What could have happened? He then saw his cousin, Amira. 

In his mind, he said to himself  "Oh dear cousin. Please be nice...."

He, instead, retrieved a flute of champagne and made his way to the Alidasht table, keeping in mind of his promise of refreshment for Nora but still choosing to keep his distance and observe her interaction with his cousin for the time being.

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Magnus Pawonska

Location: Grand Ballroom 
Attire: Attire: Starry Night Attire
Interactions:@Redking0380 Fareed @Lava Alckon Farim @princess Anastasia 
Mentions:@AuthenticTomb Sylvia @Tae Ranya

Poor woman, still forced to wear a smile when she had only only hours ago watched her mother be burned at the stake. The word pity failed to come close to what he felt for what Anastasia was pulling herself through. At the very least, Magnus could be a gracious guest and not let it show on his face. 

When asked by her about his intentions of attending this Courting Season Magnus said, "That is one of my hopes though truth be told I am not quite confident in my ability to woo and charm. Matters of the heart are much more difficult to discern and delicate, something that I am sure to be clumsy with." Upon realizing that he may have been a bit too forthcoming with his perspectives on his own deficits, he gave her an apologetic smile and quickly added, "But no, I am also here with my sisters in hopes that they'll find suitable partners, but above all else I just want them to enjoy themselves."

Magnus glanced around the room and saw someone bumped into Nora, a small girl. Elena was not in his line of sight though he was certain she was in this room with them most likely wishing to be anywhere than here. 

His attention was brought back to Farim. Not even five minutes in and there was someone already trying to curry favor. 

"Deals I can work with though I am afraid that I do not know what I would be able to offer a Shehzade other than the private commission of my work. I am a mechanical engineer by profession, cars, firearms, that sort of thing." He had explained. If the man was offering then why not at least put in some free advertising though he was not sure if Farim had heard him over his own passionate promises to the princess. 

Magnus politely cleared his throat to remind the man that he was still in public. "Not to ruin the moment, but uh, you know, if you wanted to see Brenoven Castle, you could make friends with the various Varian royalty that are in this very room with us," suggested he. "The crown prince and his siblings are attending this very Courting Season. In fact, I think a few of your family members have beaten you to the punch." He had been very careful to keep an eye on the man that spoke to his sister. It looked like he had shared a few words with Prince Askel and it appeared that Sylvia was becoming quite friendly with one Farim's family members.

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Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Interactions:@HylianRose Nora

Amira turned around aghast with complete embarrassment at her lack of attention and manners. She was surely never going to be allowed to a ball ever again after all the shame she had already managed to bring to herself in such little time.

Seeing the young noblewoman bowing towards her, she quickly began to curtsy in return as she started to spout out her rambling apologies. "No, no," She insisted, "It was entirely my fault. I was not looking where I was going at all and -"

It was then she peered to look up at the young woman she had bumped into, only to find her head now hitting squarely with the young lady's. A jingling mess was heard as she pulled back, hand to her head, her face now somehow managed to burn an even brighter red than ever before.

"I am so so sorry. I do not know what has come over me," Amira said, mortified, "I - I have never been to such a ball before, and I obviously was not ready for all the crowds and splendour."

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Drake, Ariella, and Nikolai

Flashback!
Date: Ignis 8
Location: Edwards Estate Infirmary

Drake slowly opened his eyes. The long night had taken its toll on him in many ways, but the most immediate sensation would be the itching. Drake lifted his bed sheets to find layers upon layers of bandages on his wounds from the previous night. He resisted the urge to tear away the linen to scratch himself, and look around the room.

This was clearly their families infirmary – so it seems that at some point he had made it home, which was good. But he felt a growing need to check on everyone else. Immediately, he pushed his arms against the bed, groaning loudly as he tried to rise from his bed.

The door to the infirmary creaked softly, and Ari pushed it open, each step deliberate. She was upright, moving through the space, but the effort was evident, like wading through invisible water. Her head throbbed behind her eyes, a dull, bruised pressure that made her wince whenever she tilted her head too sharply or laughed at something small.

Her limbs felt leaden, carrying a faint tremor when she reached out for the edge of a table or tried to steady herself. Even the simple act of walking made her bones feel hollow and fatigued, as though she’d spent the night running a race her body didn’t want to remember.

Nik followed behind her, his steps deliberately quiet and slow. With how she felt, she hadn’t been moving very quickly so tailing her without making a sound wasn’t too terribly difficult. He had heard the sound of her door creaking open slowly, and he’d felt the tug of annoyance pull the corners of his lips down into a frown. Even now, the frown remained. He had no idea what this room was or what she was doing, but he needed to be sure it wasn’t anything that would harm her. 

Her stomach nudged reminders of the night before: mostly calm, but she was grateful for the broth Nik had brought her. 

Words lagged behind her intentions, thoughts slipping away mid-sentence. Even now, as she approached the bed where Drake struggled to rise, she had to pause to anchor herself, wary of pushing too far.
Nikolai pressed his ear to the door, trying to listen and decide if he needed to slip in behind her to continue following her, or stay put. 

She let out a slow breath, forcing herself to focus. “Drake,” she said softly, her voice steady despite the tremor in her hands,  “you’re awake. How are you feeling?” She reached out, resting a careful hand on the edge of the bed—not rushing, not pressing—but just present, the effort of simply being there etched into every movement.

He paused, taking in the sight of his severely spent sister. The urge to rise waned as she approached, step by step. Even if he continued, he doubted he had the strength to fully rise at the present moment. So he sank back into his bed and reached a hand out to overlap Ariella’s. ”Like I just had a wrestling match with a fully loaded carriage…yet I still seem to be fairing better between the two of us.”

Nik pressed himself even closer to the door. He could hear muffled sounds, her voice and a man’s. He didn’t recognize it. His brow furrowed. Had she been fooling him before about her experience with men? Not that it mattered much.

”You did a brave thing last night. I won’t lessen the deeds of your courage…but…” His eyes wandered a moment, the exhaustion hitting him slightly as his eyes went from focused to glazed and back again. ”You must be careful. Gods know who may come for you if word gets out…”
”And the drawbacks….you look like a ghost right now, sister. Are you sure you don’t want someone to get you a bed here?”

Nik frowned in frustration. He could barely hear them and not enough to make out what they were saying at all. With a determined look on his face, Nik reached for the door and slowly turned the handle. He prayed to any god that would listen that the door didn’t creak and thankfully for him, it didn’t. 

“I have been careful,” she said gently, as if afraid that raising her voice might shatter the fragile calm of the room. “More than you think. Especially after finding out what Mother and Father did with my memories, they should be grateful I haven’t done anything..”
Her gaze drifted for a moment, unfocused, before returning to Drake’s face. “Father’s made certain of it though. He’s seen to… arrangements.” A faint, wry smile tugged at her lips. “I have a live-in caregiver now. Father sprung him on me at dinner. A newly appointed guard who very nearly refused to let my feet touch the stairs—carried me up them himself, despite my protests.”
Nik rolled his eyes at her. You’re welcome, princess.

She let out a quiet breath, something between amusement and resignation. “He’s not… awful,” she admitted. “Overbearing, yes. But kind. And the kitchens have been instructed to prepare food I can actually keep down.” She pulled over a chair from the small desk beside his bed taking a seat in it. “So I am eating. Resting. Letting myself heal, even when it frustrates me.”

Nik made a face, entirely tempted to stop listening. He didn’t like the way he felt knowing that he was “not awful.” It wasn’t an awful feeling, but he hated the warmth it brought. 

The lightness faded then, her eyes darkening with memory. “After what I saw at the banquet…” Her jaw tightened. “I understand Father’s fear now. I truly do. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t afraid myself.”

She met Drake’s gaze fully, unflinching. Nik’s brow furrowed and he pressed against the door a little more, pressing it open just a fraction more.

“But fear isn’t a reason to do nothing.” Her grip on her dress firmed as she pulled at the fabric. “I won’t sit safely behind locked doors while the world burns outside them. It’s not who I am.”I would very much like for that to be who you are, Nik thought to himself, an annoyed look on his face.

A slow breath in. Steady. Controlled.

“If the choice is between dying for what I believe in, or living while turning my back on it…” She shook her head once. “Then I already know my answer.”
Please reconsider… There are other answers… Nik grimaced.
She let out an exaggerated sigh. 

Drake’s gaze lingered around his sister. Watching her affirm her unabated personality came with a sense of relief and concern. He wanted Ariella to be herself and only herself – but sometimes the world wouldn’t have it that way. He breathed slowly before speaking, reaching behind him to casually rub one of his scars. ”Please, sister. You are much stronger than you think. I think those who choose to turn their ire towards you will fall before you do. You proved as much the other night... even if it was reckless. It gave us the chance to turn the tides and secure the lives of everyone there. You should be proud of that much.”

“I am proud of myself, and I would do it again. I could smell your burning flesh Drake. She said softly. 

He paused for the compliment to linger before adding his critique. ”But a glass cannon that shatters after one shot is hardly a way to go about things. So my question to you is…how ready are you to see this gift of yours to the next level?”

Nik narrowed his eyes at the question. He hadn’t disagreed with her brother up to now, but the idea of her taking her gift to the next level felt like a loaded damn question and a dangerous one too. 

“I was already there, Drake. Ari sighed as she bit back through her pain as she shifted uncomfortably in the chair.“Those journals you gave me, they are as if they were written by a whole other person that I don't recognize. She seemed to know a lot…I just haven’t quite figured it all out yet but I plan too.”

”Maybe I can unlock those memories they took from me, be my old self again..
Drake held a hand up. ”As someone who has seen both parts I know just how inevitable it is to stop you from blossoming. But a rose has its thorns, so that is why I say to exercise caution. From what I’ve read, this kind of power is a double-edged blade. For every boon gained, a price must be paid…sometimes the cost being worse than the payoff.”

She knew that all too well. She was worried that was why she hadn’t seen Callum since the auction. 

”But a double-edged blade managed by an expert in the craft is just another blade. So that’s why if there’s anything I can do, I would like to offer my support.” Drake corrected his posture once more as he continued/. ”Perhaps after you lay low for a minute. Once the dust settles on this whole…cursed night that we bore witness too.” He paused, a sudden realization hitting. ”Did anyone tell you what happened after your big spell?”

She shook her head ”No… I just woke up here..

Nik pressed himself closer to the door, trying to listen. He wanted to know too.

Drake gripped the sheets. From what he could recall she passed out just as things got to its climax. ”Truthfully I’m glad you didn’t get to see some of the things that happened after. I would think your exposure to magic should be a little more…subtle. Nor did I want you to see me in the state I was in. I was not the usual chipper brother you’ve come to know.” He paused.

”What you need to know…is that Kalliope Arden has been kidnapped.”

Nik felt his blood run cold for a moment. He lost his footing and felt his body stumble through the door. IT swung open with an annoyingly loud thud and he just about tumbled into the room on unsteady feet. He cleared his throat once he’d found his balance again and straightened to face the man on the bed. 

”Could… could you repeat that? Who was kidnapped?” He asked, head tilting forward as if he couldn’t believe what he’d just heard. 

Drake spun around with a look that could kill. His eyes narrowed. ”Can we help you?” Drake then took a look at his sister. ”No….surely this can’t be…” The man looked at Nikolai with disbelief that was somewhat reminiscent of his mother.

”I take it you are the care-giver?”

”I… uhm…” Nik started, looking from Ariella to Drake and back as if she could save him from this. ”Sorry, yes. I’m Nikolai Berova, at your service, Lord Drake.” Nik bowed politely before lifting up again. 

”Can you please repeat what you said just a moment ago? Kalliope? You said Kalliope?” He asked, genuine concern written across his features.

The lord rubbed his fingers against his temples and groaned. ”In light of more serious conversation topics I will overlook the eavesdropping.” Drake paused to catch a breath before repeating himself.

”Yes. Kalliope has been kidnapped.”

Ari looked over her shoulder looking at Nikolai ”Well… Drake…Nikolai…Nikolai…Lord Drake” she gestured almost lazily. ”My babysitter, courtesy of father.” Drake resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the idea of a babysitter for a grown woman.

Though he interrupted, it was interesting how interested he seemed in Kalliope. ”She seems rather capable, I'm sure she is alright.  Her eyes glanced over to her brother. ”Was it the goons from the bar?

Nik felt his blood run cold again as Drake confirmed his words. He’d been hoping he misheard, that someone else was in harms way. His eyes glanced around the room, as if searching for something, something to anchor himself with. 

”You too are capable, but I would hope that you would like for someone to care.” Nik grumbled at Ariella. He turned, waiting for Drake to answer. 

She noticed his attitude towards her attempt at reassurance, choosing to not react. 

Drake straightened himself. ”Don’t mistake my lack of action for apathy. For you see…” Drake mildly gestured to himself. ”I would simply be another body to add to the headlines as I am. I have already sent some private investigators I know personally to look into it. But obviously, the more eyes the better.”

Ari nodded in agreement with her brother as he articulated better what she intended to say earlier ”She will have a lot of people looking for her. More bodies may just cause more issues then good.

Nik let out a soft sigh, lifting a hand to wave it in the air. ”I’m not saying anything about either of your inactions or what have you. I just want to know more information. She is a friend. I am concerned.” He tried to explain, looking between them. 

”I don’t really care if there are already a large number of people looking for her, I’m still worried. I know quite well what she is capable of and that she may already be on her way back but…” He let his words trail off. It wouldn’t do to allow himself to get upset. These two clearly didn’t want him to. He took in a breath and walked over to a nearby chair and sat down. 

”I won’t apologize for caring.” He spoke, trying to calm his own anger. ”But, please continue.”

Drake calmed his tone, sensing the frustration in Nikolai’s words. ”As you shouldn’t.” He rubbed his temple, as if to conjure the memories. 

”There was chaos. Everyone was everywhere claiming their own bounties. Kalliope had fully beheaded a man before hiding behind the bar in anticipation of some other attacker coming after her. Then the guards broke in…then…she screamed a name. Sahn-Dehk? I am unfamiliar with them.”

Ari stayed silent, leaning back against the chair still weak from the events. Her face whitened at the image of someone beheading a man allowing the two to speak. Clearly she had hit a nerve with Nikolai. 

Nik blinked as Drake explained. He knew she wasn’t someone he wanted to fuck with, but damned if he was ever going to push her too far again. Beheaded?! ”Sjan-dehk…” Nik corrected, though not in a mean way, more in a way of affirming what Drake had said. 

”If he’s aware that she’s gone then I’m sure everything will be okay.” Nik sighed. He took a moment to look at the others, as if finally realizing just how rude he’d been. ”Sorry for interrupting.” He added softly, turning his gaze to look at Ariella a moment. ”And for my behavior.” Seriously though, she beheaded someone?! 

Letting out a soft laugh she smiled ”Never apologise for caring…Being nosey is a survival requirement in the Edwards household.” she looked at Drake with a soft smile. 

Drake returned the look, sighing with resignation. ”Too true, Ari.” Drake looked at Nikolai. ”Speaking of being nosey. I wish to speak with you at a later time, when I am out of intensive care and you are well adjusted.” Drake bowed as much as one could in his seated position.

”Previous follies are forgiven. For now.” He said with a tired and playful smile.

Nik nodded his head politely, a means of trying to appease his employer’s son. He did need Drake to trust him if he was to do his job. ”Absolutely, Lord Drake.” Nik returned. 

Large green eyes peered over her shoulder as Ariella turned to look at Nikolai ”Would you mind if I spoke with my brother privately for some time, I don't want to keep him from his rest and frankly I need mine.” her voice said rather weakly. 

”Oh… Right, yes.” Nik nodded. ”Take your time.” He added with a small wave as he exited. He turned the corner just as he did and leaned against the wall to wait for Ari. His mind was racing, thinking about what was currently happening to Kalliope. He’d have to check in on that when he had the opportunity. 

Drake smiled at the door as it closed. ”Charming one, isn’t he?” He asked before letting out a soft cough. Damn. Even talking this much left him feeling winded? All that screaming would do that I guess.

He looked at his sister and exhaled. ”Your memories may be gone but you used to be a prodigy believe it or not. If your gift is out in the open, it might be best to be prepared to shield rather than harm.” He felt himself grind his teeth as the image played back.

Those men grabbing her, toying with her. Then her having to resort to magic so strong it knocked her off her feet and leaves her reeling for days…Some big brother he was. ”I will be taking up the sword, perhaps even getting a little more physically fit for what troubles may lay ahead. But I think I will be carrying my revolver wherever I go.” He gestured to the piece of metal sitting inert on a nearby table.

”Whether it’s magic, steel, or lead. Keeping yourself armed in the days to come feels like a must.” He reached for her hand. ”No matter what happens. I’m here for you.”

Ari smiled softly as her fingers played idly with her nightgown. ”Thank you…” she said softly, her hand reaching out to her brothers as she gripped it softly. 

”He is something… I suppose trying to argue with father against my need for a guard would be useless at this point so I might as well just deal with it. I didn’t want to do it you know… her green eyes glanced up at her brother before dropping to look at his hand. ”The magic…” she added. 

”But I don't know what I was supposed to do, I guess the drinks certainly didn’t help but I couldn’t just sit there and allow things to happen. No one else was doing anything. I panicked.”

Drake smiled and nodded. ”Well for someone who panicked you certainly turned the tide. I was about to dislocate my wrists and make for a shot against the ring leader. Even that would have been a gamble at best.”

His eyes seemed to look past her in that moment, the sights of the tavern and what happened gripping onto his psyche. Before realizing it, his hand had gripped onto hers. The man softened his clutch and took a shallow breath. ”I am just glad you didn’t have to witness anything else. What happened after you passed out…I would hope you never have to be a part of.”

Drake met Ariella’s eyes and lowered his voice. ”But it seems the crown is doubling down. They’ve already sent patrols all over town. Witch hunters to investigate any potential source of magic or magicae.” He took her hand in both of his. ”So I will train and prepare for the inevitable. A guard at our door is a…mostly welcome addition. And whatever you need from me, it’s yours sister.”

”What shall I do?”  She asked her brother, her tone holding its own fear unable to hide her concern. “I know I'll need to attend the ball. What if the witch hunters are there?”

”Frankly, after the other night…I think you deserve something memorable and enjoyable. I will be in attendance tonight, as will Nikolai I am sure. I don’t have all the answers, but gods help me I’ll find them to keep you safe.” He kept his eyes locked onto her as he spoke. ”And before you say it…no I won’t just throw more swords to follow you in lockstep, but father will likely have some nearby incase anything goes wrong.” He knew her fear of being locked up better than anyone, and he wanted the upcoming ball to be a good memory for her, not just another regrettable event that ended with her in disarray.

Nodding, she sat in silence before finally speaking ”We both should get some rest.” she smiled softly before giving her brother's hand a squeeze. She didn’t wait for his response before leaving her seat. 

Taking a final look back to her brother and his condition she offered him a final smile ”Goodnight Drake” slipping out of the door. Her eyes glanced at Nikolai for a moment before she headed back down the hall towards her room.

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Hidden 4 mos ago Post by Lava Alckon

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Drake

Time: Evening of Ignis 10 
Location: Danrose Castle
Mentions: Gideon @princess and Nolan @Remram

”Always good to see you, Father. Do take care and know that as you said, we always persevere. Even in the darkest of hours.” His words were an allusion not just to tonight, but to the grim night at the tavern. A part of him certainly changed that day, but the lord would not let it define him or ruin his typical good nature.

Drake smiled and politely waved as his father made his departure. He did have a way with words that made him feel better about everything. Drake said a silent prayer for whatever it is his mother would be dragging the poor man into before looking at Nolan.

”And what’s so astrologically shattering that I managed to finally work up the nerve to pursue Lady Thea?” Drake smirked before giving Nolan’s shoulder a reassuring pat that melded into a firm grip on his shoulder. ”Always good to know my savior is right here judging my romantic antics.” He said sarcastically.

Drake eyed the room – taking in the attendees, parties, who was with who, and what each person did as they entered. ”So is tonight another wallflower kind of night or is a certain someone going to work up their own courage to court tonight? There are some lovely ladies present and I’m sure they keep very pleasant company. If nothing else perhaps you can find yourself a new companion amidst the sea of foreign delegates.” 

His initial instinct told him Nolan would rather chew glass than actively pursue romance. But a gentle shove in the right way never hurt anyone. Plus, appealing to that logical side of him might get him to at least try.

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Time:  Evening 
Location: Danrose Castle 
Interactions: @AuthenticTomb Aslam & @RemRam Askel 
Mentions: @Chrys Amira

The conversation towards Amira was charming. Kira waited patiently as the two chatted and remained quiet. She took some pastries from the table and focused on how heavenly it tasted. Kira began forming a sentence about how beautiful Amira and Aslam looked when the young girl decided to waltz off. She crashed into another person and raised her eyebrows. Who was that? She’d need to find out later. 

Focus, Kira....

Unexpectedly, Kira stumbled from an unknown source. She grabbed onto Aslam’s arm quickly to stop herself from tumbling over onto the ground like a fish out of water. A shot of annoyance coursed through her, but she didn’t let it show. She glanced over with furrowed brows. She saw a flash of red hair and then her gaze met Prince Askel’s. 

"Pardon my carelessness. Are you okay?" The knightly prince inquired.

Kira smiled politely at Aslam, and allowed her hand to linger for a fraction longer than necessary, and turned her attention briefly to Prince Askel. She curtsied properly and straightened back up. ”Yes, thanks to Shehzade Aslam. Thank you for allowing me to steady myself. Shall I be bumped into again, I do hope you’re there to catch me.” Kira grinned at him playfully. 

Her gaze flickered between them. She adjusted herself to stand in the middle so neither of them were left out. ”It’s not everyday I’m bumped into by a Prince while chatting with a Shehzade, so I dare say fortune favors me tonight.” She grinned and took a glass of wine to sip and pause for a moment. Behind the glass, her smile was confident and her body lady relaxed. ”I’m Lady Kira,” she introduced herself to Askel with a kind smile. ”It’s an honor to meet you, Prince Askel.” 

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Nolan Edwards

Location: Grand Ballroom 
Attire: Attire: Starry Night Attire
Interactions:@Lava Alckon Drake
Mentions:@HylianRose Nora

He understood that his father had to perform his duties as a husband and as Duke of Sorian, but it did little to ease the disappointment. However, it was also understood that showing such a face would have stirred worry in his father's heart more so he dared not to, opting to wear a smile and politely boy his head."Take care, father," was all he said as he watched him go off into the fray. All he could do was join his brother to give their father a silent prayer for him. The poor bastard was going to need it.

Nolan's attention was brought back to his brother as he spoke to him, making no attempt to shake his ever familiar hand on his shoulder. A mischievous smirk crawled along his lips in response to Drake's amused sarcasm. "You only have yourself to blame; all these years you encouraged me to speak my mind and thus, I have fulfilled the role of the annoying little brother. It is by your own design," said Nolan with  a matter of fact tone, his gaze  ever playful and defiant.

His eyes shifted back to the hall, silently observing the participants once again. There was still no sign of Ariella and her new private guard nor was there any sign of Lottie and he strongly doubted that James was more likely acting as a guard for the ball rather than attending. He also didn't see any sight of that vivid red head of Marnie's either though he was only guessing that she may attend though he felt conflicted. On one hand, he would have liked to see her again. On the other hand, the sight of her would have forced him to relive his social faux pas and he would have to fight the urge to find the nearest balcony and swan dive off of it.

The only person beyond family that he could recognize was Nora... bowing to the person that bumped her? 

Ye gods Nora, where the hell did your spine go?!

His attention though was broken by his brother's gentle prodding to seek romance, which received a singular dry laugh. "And why would you wish to punish these poor women with my company? Have they done something to earn your ire?"

"It is plain to see that this room is filled with ladies who indeed deserve such praise and admiration for there are many that are quite lovely and I am sure would make pleasant company, but I have very little to offer," said he. "I'm just... me, neurosis and all. I would be a mismatch for any woman that looked my way and entertained the thought of me."

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Hidden 4 mos ago → 3 mos ago Post by AuthenticTomb

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AuthenticTomb A Rouge Machine

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Bio

Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Attire: Aslam's Outfit
Interactions: Kira - @Potter, Askel - @Remram
Mentions: Amira - @Chrys
Color Code: #FEF698


Aslam had picked up the increased flustered state of his cousin so when she decided to excuse herself he simply gave her a smile and nod. His hope that she would be able to traverse the ball with a tad more thought and confidence cracked upon watching her collide with another. He could not hide the brief wince that appeared on his face and chose then to focus the beauty before him. Before he start a conversation back up, he found his arms coming up to steady feet as she stumbled towards him. His eyes flashed Prince Askel an inquisitive look before his attention was brought quickly back down to Kira.

"It would be my pleasure, of course. I shall not wish for the opportunity, but if fates wills it again so be it." Aslam had similarly let his hold on her arm extend for that extra moment she allowed. It was after the exchange that he shifted his gaze to the prince. The red of his hair a distinct marker of the Varian royal family. He admitted he was more familiar with the gossipe surrounding Prince Varian, but intuition told him speaking to this younger brother would prove...enlightening.

Aslam gave Askel a small bow of his head in acknowledgement and maintained a neutral smile. "Shehzade Aslam and I must agree. I am glad to have finally made your acquaintance this evening." He had promised his darling sister Ranya he would not pry into the identity of her secret admirer, but he couldn't help visualize the coat she had been wearing over the shoulders of the man before him. "I noticed you were having quite the talk with my brother." Aslam commented as he took a sip from his personal chalice and then frowned at its newfound emptiness. 

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Hidden 4 mos ago → 4 mos ago Post by princess

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Marina & Ambrose

Time: Evening
Location: The beginning is a flashback to Alibeth's execution in the morning. Then we move the Guest house and finally the Ballroom
Mention:@AuthenticTomb@CitrusArms@Remram@HylianRose@Samreaper

Marina had attended the execution, not to feed some twisted appetite for violence, but because she wanted to challenge her own comfort. She stood among the crowd with her hood lowered like everyone else, auburn curls escaping the fur lining. She forced her eyes to stay on the platform even when every instinct told her to look away.

When the fire caught, she could not help but falter backward a few steps, jaw clenched so hard it ached. She might have clumsily fallen over someone’s foot if Ambrose’s mighty hand hadn’t caught her shoulder. The smell of burning hair and flesh made her stomach lurch so violently it was a wonder she didn’t hurl, like many around them did. Beside her stood a young blonde man with a funny little cowlick, his disgust written so plainly on his face that she reached for his hand and squeezed without thinking. She left that courtyard somehow a storm of emotions, yet also hollow. The rest of the day, she did what she always did when she didn’t want to deal with her feelings… She kept moving.

Marina had gone shopping at the outdoor bazaar in the afternoon, buying small things she did not need. It helped, a little, especially when she ran into an Alidasht prince named Aslam. He was charming, and her goblin of a sister made an appearance too. For a brief stretch of time, Marina managed to forget the insanity of the morning.

But even now, alone in her bedroom, she felt like she could still smell the smoke, despite the three baths she had taken today. Her staff had filed out the moment they thought she was finished.

Marina sat still before the mirror anyway, her mind elsewhere rather than the girl staring back. Freckles dusted her nose and cheeks, stark against the darkened makeup she had chosen. Her eyes were lined and heavy-lashed, her mouth painted a deep plum. Her hair had been pinned up into a thick twist, with a few curls left loose at her temples.

She exhaled through her nose, then reached behind herself to scratch an itch. Marina’s brows knitted and she patted about her back with sudden confusion. She tried again, twisting her shoulder, feeling along the back of the bodice until her hand found the laces hanging loose. 

The realization made Marina’s stomach drop with dread. 

She stared at her reflection, lips parting. Then she huffed and tried to lace it herself anyway, tugging one ribbon tight, then the other. The cord slid through the holes but her arms began to tremble from the angle. The knot slipped the moment she tried to cinch it properly.

Marina went still, staring at herself again, then finally turned from the mirror and crossed to the door. She opened it just enough to peer into the corridor.“Ambrose,” she hissed softly. Then she tilted her head to look at him, lashes lowering. “I require your assistance.”

While fire and flames were the focus of all in attendance, Ambrose’s eyes did not reflect the inferno. Instead, his shadowed gaze was cast down onto the princess in front of him. He watched as Marina struggled with the horror playing out in real time before her, letting a hand stop her from falling as her body tried to escape from instinct alone. His hand had remained there on her back even after she steadied herself. It was all he could do to offer comfort for such a ghastly ordeal.  

Soon enough though it was over, the crowd departed, and they went about the rest of their day. Ambrose had accompanied Marina throughout her errands. Not directly, rather he remained nearby as she perused the shops and conversed with the man from the Alidasht. The knight gave his princess the space she needed to cope, to process, and to move on from what they had borne witness to that morning. To have her know that he was not far, that she was not truly alone, and that she would be safe under his watchful eye, was enough to offer him the briefest bit of solace throughout the day’s tasks.

Even now as he stood watch outside her castle chambers, he replayed the burning of the queen over and over in his mind as he pondered the horrific place his royal wards had found themselves and he could not help but to ache for home. For Varian. 

The thoughts were broken by Marina’s voice ringing out to him for assistance. With zero hesitation, Ambrose made his way over to her door and prepared to enter. He was already wearing the outfit that had been provided to him for the night’s castle ball. The long, tailored black coat had brilliant embroidery of crimson and bronze. The ensemble was made just for him, and no man could look as distinguished nor as striking in the outfit as did the Briar Knight. 

His demeanor carried the same underlying sharpness that gave him a dangerous kind of appeal. It was often presented in the form of restrained exasperation from the Camilia siblings’ antics, but tonight it was more so the weight on the shoulders of a weary man that had no time for rest, and far too much responsibility. The duty was one he welcomed, despite the air of irritation he wore so well.  

Stepping inside of Marina’s room, he spoke to announce his presence. 

“Princess, you called for me?” 

When Ambrose stepped in, the first thing he saw was Marina standing by the mirror, one hand pressed flat to the small of her back, the bodice laces hanging loose. She lifted her chin like nothing was wrong, but her freckled cheeks were pink. His eyes widened as though he were seeing something he should not. Though ever the professional, the knight could help the instinct that he should turn his gaze from her in such a state.

 “Ambrose,” She said his name sharply, then immediately ruined it by looking away. “Do not make that face–I dismissed my maid too early.”  Her eyes flicked to the loose laces dangling, then back to him, though she avoided direct eye contact. “Be a dear and rescue your princess.”

The moment her eyes left his, Ambrose fought the temptation to let his own wander her figure. Instead, he followed her gaze to the laces and though hesitant… he moved to do as instructed. With a clearing of his throat, the knight addressed the princess as he closed the distance between them. 

“Rescue you?” Ambrose repeated as he stepped behind her and gathered the loose laces, careful not to let his hands linger anywhere they shouldn’t.

“Princess, I was under the impression my duties involved keeping you, your brothers, and your sister safe from assassins and worse…yourselves.”

The laces tightened neatly beneath his fingers.

“Little did I know that Marina Camilia would need to be rescued from her own clothing, as well.” His voice carried its usual hint of grumpiness, but it was laced with dry humor and little did she know that there was a soft smile across his face as he performed his duty. 

“Try not to look too pleased about it.” Marina retorted curtly, holding perfectly still as he went to work. “And don’t you dare look at my voluptuous backside without proper paperwork.”

“Voluptuous?” Ambrose echoed as he continued tightening the laces, one brow lifting though she could not see it from the mirror. “Strange. After years spent guarding your rear, I somehow failed to notice.”

“Excuse you?” Marina’s head snapped up, her indignation written on her face. 

He pulled her back an inch or two toward him as he cinched in the final lace. She was not the only one capable of such a tease. He leaned down, lowering his voice and letting his breath caress her ear. 

“Perhaps I have been too focused on keeping you alive through your many…many questionable decisions.”

Her pink cheeks did lighten the severity of the look she gave him through the mirror. However, it was a look that promised vengeance all the same. She huffed after a moment then lifted her chin higher as if that would intimidate him.  “Oh please. I’ve never questioned any of my decisions. Not even once.” Though that did not defend the point as well as it had in her head, she didn’t dally on that remark. Instead, she whirled around to face him, ready to snap at him, only to find that the distance between them was far smaller than it had seemed in the mirror. 

Her breath caught, her eyes flicking up and down the view as if she couldn’t decide where to land them. Her retort was thus placated.  “And…” Marina managed to give him one of her token smug looks as she finally met his eyes and softly informed him.   “I’ve noticed you noticing. You’re just trying to dodge my official backside-viewing-access-paperwork.”

Ambrose mirrored the smugness she carried; an air of satisfaction pouring from his expression at the sight of the blush on her cheeks. 

“I must admit, Princess…” The knight said, taking his time and letting her hang there waiting for his next words.  “I do…really…hate paperwork.”

Marina leaned toward him, her hands on her hips now, “Not… my… problem.” she mockingly enunciated her words, keeping her sentence as slow as he had. Then she straightened and added, “Get a lawyer.” Ambrose rolled his eyes, though the smirk remained. 

Then she smoothed the front of her dress. “Now,” she added briskly, pivoting toward the door with a decisive little nod,  auburn curls bouncing in time with her step, “it is time to go.”

The knight turned and motioned toward their exit with a little bow of his head. “After you…” He concurred. “Seeing as I’ve been ready for over an hour, it appears that you’re the one that’s running late.”
“Being on time is for losers.” Marina said and stuck her tongue out at him. 

Ambrose’s eyes went from Marina’s gaze to her tongue, then back up to meet her eyes once more. There was something enticing about the way his bronze eyes traveled across her face.

“By that metric, there is not a man nor woman in all the kingdoms combined that is less of a loser than you, Marina.” He assured her mockingly, one last move in their little game of back and forth. The man then straightened back up into his knightly posture and adjusted the front of his jacket to be pristine before continuing. “Shall we, Princess?”

Marina’s brows lifted and a brief look of outrage crossed her expression as the meaning of his quip sunk in. She paused mid-step, then turned her head slowly over her shoulder, eyes narrowing. “Oh? Then you should be grateful to accompany me.” she purred, smile sharpening.  “Now hush and escort me, loser.”

She swept toward the corridor and the two made their way to the castle. Eventually, they found themselves approaching the ballroom doors, the muffled swell of strings and laughter seeping through the wood. Marina slowed only long enough to glance back at Ambrose, lashes lowering, before the guards opened the doors for them, presenting them a bright, vast room of blue and gold.

Marina set a hand on her hip the moment the herald announced her name, as if the entire room had been waiting for her approval. She lifted her other arm high in a bold echo of the pose Stratya had struck just days prior, letting her leg deliberately peek through the slit of her dress with shameless confidence. Her chin tipped up as she presented the room with a pleased smile, and then she strode forward with every ounce of attitude her small frame could muster.

Ambrose felt the room in its entirety turn their attention towards his princess as she wasted no time claiming her moment for this entrance. 

Of course, she did not. The girl had a way of drawing attention to her, even when she did not intend to. Oftentimes, it was the source of much of his stress… But tonight, it was earned and she truly looked spectacular as she struck that familiar pose for the crowd. 

From his position just behind her shoulder, Ambrose watched the princess do her thing. While he could never be as stunning as his charge, the tall, broad man stood in a glory of his own, one to be basked in. His ensemble for the evening commanded a kind of masculine beauty that few men possessed, but Ambrose had never really learned to use his looks like the other nobles. Instead, his presence was one of authority and protectiveness as he stood behind one of the most important women in all the world. 

His eyes shifted between the men in the room. Men who had intended to greet dignitaries instead found their attention firmly stolen by the freckled princess who strode forward like she owned the very marble beneath her feet. Ambrose followed a step behind her, posture immaculate, his long coat falling neatly behind him as he properly entered the ballroom. His expression had settled into that familiar mask of disciplined calm, though his bronze eyes moved constantly with vigilance. 

The Briar Knight could not afford to be dazzled by chandeliers and music like the others. He had a job to do. 

As Marina moved ahead with a beautiful confidence, Ambrose could not entirely suppress the quiet flicker of pride that stirred somewhere beneath his ribs. She had seen horror today in the form of fire and death. That kind of thing could scar someone, and yet here she was in all of her natural magnetism.

And most importantly…she was smiling. 

Ambrose allowed himself the briefest glance toward her as they moved deeper into the ballroom. The candlelight caught in the loose curls at her temples, turning the auburn strands to copper flame. Her freckles stood out boldly against the darker paint of her makeup, and the deep plum of her lips gave her smile a dangerous edge that many of the gathered nobles couldn’t truly see because they simply did not know her like him. A few ambassadors exchanged murmurs. Another bowed quickly as she passed. Ambrose noticed everything… The admiration, curiosity, desire…even envy.

The handful of gazes that lingered a second too long were the ones he focused on most. Those he would remember most vividly. His eyes drifted once more to the perimeter of the room, tracking guards and courtiers alike before returning to his rightful position just behind Marina’s shoulder. He leaned slightly closer then, his voice low enough that only she would hear it beneath the music.

“What a demure and subtle entrance, Princess.” He teased with a knowing smile. 

"I am nothing but subtle." Marina smiled smugly, pleased with herself and still waving to the onlookers. Through her teeth, she leaned her head slightly and added back. "I could be far worse, and we both know it. " She then abruptly spun on her heels to meet his gaze. “Do hold still.”

Marina reached over without warning and plucked her folded fan from Ambrose’s coat pocket as though retrieving it from its rightful place. She snapped it open with a flick of her wrist. It bloomed wide, white, painted with black flowers whose silver jeweled centers caught the light. Then she began to fan herself, not because she needed it, but because it suited the aura she required. And, of course, because it was great to gossip behind.

"Now then, who should I approach first?" she mused, eyes drifting over the room without quite turning her head. "I have caught a few faces already, because I am ever observant, obviously, but I do not wish to look back and stare like some overeager little gargoyle. Hm. I do believe I spotted several wondrous options such as the generous darling Shehzade Aslam, my sweet Nolan, the beautiful Stratya, my gremlin sister... oh, and the heaping amounts of beautiful women..."

She fanned herself a touch faster then, though whether from heat or dramatics was anyone’s guess."But first and foremost, I am here for Lucy, so I am rather interested in making certain the women of this court have not pulled every last shining red lock from his head."

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Time: Evening
Location: The Castle Ballroom
Interactions: Farim @Lava Alckon Magnus @Remram Fareed @Redking0380
Attire: Dress

"Nothing would make me happier than seeing your home." Anastasia told Farim with a sweet smile. "I bet it's absolutely amazing. You make it sound so lovely that now I feel I should be terribly disappointed if I never get to see it at all."

"Definitely a deal." Instead of shaking his hand properly, she took it and pressed it to her cheek, snuggling it there for a brief second as though that counted well enough. Then she looked back at Magnus, and her brows lifted in open disbelief. "What? You are not confident?" she asked, sounding genuinely baffled by it. "But you're beautiful. I should think women are already fighting over you somewhere, and you simply have not noticed. Or maybe you have noticed and are pretending not to." She tapped her chin, though her usual energy was still absent, she still teased, "Definitely on to you."

Her mouth curved a little then, faintly amused. "And anyway, all that matters of the heart nonsense is much too dramatic. If you like somebody, you should just say so and be done with it. Life is short, and then you die, so there is hardly any use in standing around waiting." Her gaze was absentminded, and her words perhaps a little too fast-paced.

She had said it lightly, almost like a joke, but a heaviness settled in her again, all the same. Still, Anastasia tilted her head, studying him. "Really, what is the worst that happens? They say no? Then you feel miserable and dramatic for a little while and eat something sweet, and then eventually you recover. That is far better than never knowing at all."

"I think it is much sadder to want something and do nothing about it," she added more quietly. "At least if you try, it was real."

At Magnus’s suggestion, she followed his gaze toward the Varian royal and stared for a moment, squinting a little as she searched her memory. "Is she one of your cousins, too, Farim?" she asked.

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Askel Camila

Location: Grand Ballroom 
Attire: Starry Night Attire
Interactions @Potter Kira @AuthenticTomb Aslam
Mentions:@princess Marina @Oso Ambrose

Askel could feel Aslam's gaze fixate on him a tad longer than he thought was necessary, or rather, the Shehzade was focused on his red hair as if he was trying to parse out some information. Aslam's eyes were intelligent, sharp, and purposeful. Of course, he could have just been distracted by the prince's hair color; it was uncommon in Alidasht after all. However, he had no idea what had happened when Ranya sneaked back into her room, but even he knew that her absence had caused a great deal of trouble for her attendant and her family. She very likely could not hide the fact that she had a beloved and for all he knew, someone saw him and let it slip though the fact that no one had approached him meant his identity was still secured.

The prince-knight hid his thoughts behind a well-rehearsed smile and returned their politeness with a bow of his head. "It is a pleasure to meet you both, despite my inelegant intrusion." His violet eyes focused on Kira and his smile became more apologetic. "I hope you are finding this night enjoyable, Lady Kira. I do apologize, typically I am much more aware of my surroundings." As a knight, it was a matter of pride that he was always cognizant of the dangers around every turn for he learned it the hard way. He didn't like it, the feeling of being off his game.

It was then Aslam's turn question Askel, an odd one. Was their conversation that spirited? "Oh, I pulled him into the brief Varian food tour that I was giving my friend Knight-Captain Durmand," explained he. "Beyond the food, it was just small talk though his company was very enjoyable. I would very much like to invite him for a drink if time allows it. Of course, the invitation is also extended to you as well," said Askel with a hopeful smile.

Before Aslam could give him his response, his attention honed in on the entrance of his sister and the knight that he served under. Of course, Marina looked dazzling and Ambrose looked like the very image of a knight that he still strove to achieve. Still, he could not help, but to fight the urge to roll his eyes at his sister's display to entice the men and women or for her theatrics with that fan of hers. Wasn't that their mother's? Still, to see her like this was better than her focusing on the events of this morning.

Askel could not help, but at least chuckle. "And there's my little sister, Marnie, stealing the show. I swear, if they would have let her she would have probably brought a sword instead of a fan."

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Knight Devout
Captain Stratya Durmand

Time: 10th Ignis, Evening
Location: Castle Ballroom - Starry Night Ball
Attire: Military Dress
Accent: Thick Scottish
Interactions: Munir @Infinite Cosmos
Mentions: Marina @princess, Nora @HylianRose, Amira @Chrys

Munir was yet again proving that he knew about her, but she was still left with no clues as to where from or when or how or anything. Or he just had a good guess. The red velvet mantle she’d dropped was not anything special to her, but “this boar pelt caplet is a trradition frrom my village, aye. That velvet mantle, howeverr, is just fashion.”

Her squire at her side had let the servant with him take the mantle away, but, if she felt encumbered, he would take the sword she’d been juggling while she ate, as well. Neither of them really understood what the purpose of having a sword on a ring like that was, but it did look nice. She carried it well. He tapped the edge of the scabbard lightly to gain her attention and communicate his intent. She offered a soft hum of affirmation and let him take the decorative sword from her, leaving just her daggers, resting on her as naturally as she breathed.

The slap on the shoulder had been a surprise, but she wasn’t offended. Stratya nodded along agreeably, “nae, you’rre reyt, Shezade. A parrty where the only thing done is standin’ rround gawpin’s nae parrty. Eatin’s the barre minimum.” She was plenty happy with food, at least. It was keeping her mood acceptable, and she was starting to feel a bit better, now that some of the food had settled in her belly.“Yes, I think I’ll join you.” Food was at least keeping her mood acceptable. A servant took her emptied plate.

On the way between tables, Munir’s hesitance gave Stratya pause. He seemed to be searching, but for what? The same voice that caught his attention caught hers, and she turned to see the same scene. However, her investment in the incident passes as soon as she saw everyone was alright and tempers were even. She caught Munir’s lingering gaze before he retrieved champagne from a nearby servant. For himself? Had that been all he wanted?

 “That’s not what you werre lookin’ for, was it?” No, he'd passed on the champagne before. Well, it didn't really matter, did it?

Then, the harold announced her, Princess Marina Camilia. Stratya turned, of course, but she was not ready for what she saw. Her dour mood certainly wasn't. What she saw, whom she saw, stood beautiful and fierce. The breath the captain took wasn't hers, and though the pose had been hers just days ago, “ooh,” had Marina made it strike so differently. Stratya had struck in in jest, after all. She stood just a little straighter, felt so much lighter, before reminding herself not to stare. With a fresh smile, Stratya turned to arrive at the table of Alidasht foods. Was she blushing? Maybe a little.

“Tell me, Shezade Munir, beforre we get intae the Alidasht sprread. You’ve spent a bit of time in ourr kingdom by now, aye? What has yourr favorrite bit of Caesonian cuisine been?” She’d finished her wine, and a stein of mead being held to her, poured from the mini-barrel that had been brought to her before. Captain Durmand accepted it and let her gaze sink into it for just a thoughtful moment before she returned it to Munir, “and how might you say your food pairs with mead?”

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Drake & Nolan

Seven years ago

It was an odd thing, to wake up from the verge of death in a hospital bed to now roam these lavish halls. Nolan had thought that his family's manor was luxurious, but this was of another order. This was a castle by comparison, a monument of wealth accumulated and shared throughout countless generations. For someone like him who had been a street urchin for the better part of two years, it was overwhelming to the senses. Nothing was an inch of place, not a speck of dust, and even the portraits and paintings were not tilted by a single degree. 

That was now applied to himself; for the first time in years, he was clean and he wore clean clothes. He wore a loose shirt so as to not rub against the stitch along his stomach. Well, he was not really meant to be out of bed though his curiosity had gotten the better of him. How could he not be curious? Very few people would ever be welcomed to such a palace! But there lies the problem; this place was a palace, and it was big, very big. 

It was just as much of a labyrinth with long winding halls to rooms that were larger than the hovels that the impoverished resided in. To put it plainly, he was lost. 

However, as he ventured throughout the manor, he found an open door. He poked his head by its frame to look into the room with a young man in it. If he remembered correctly, this was Drake, Duke Gideon's son and eldest child. He stared at him quietly with his green eyes hidden behind his shaggy bangs.

To him, it was just another afternoon where he would be studying on recent politics or historical events. At present, he was going over Sorian judicial law in regards to “Grand Theft Palomino" as the book so aptly called it. In other words—what happened when someone stole your horse. It was getting rather interesting, determining when a horse is officially considered “stolen”, how long before reporting such crimes, and how to better prevent it in the first place. Then he noticed a presence at the door, and he turned his head with a pre-ordained look of annoyance.

He figured it would be his mother, perhaps his father, maybe even his sister coming to inundate him with something to interrupt his afternoon reading. But that initial cold stare softened upon seeing Nolan. 

”Oh. It’s you.” He closed his book and stood up to greet the new addition to the family. ”I’ve been meaning to come take stock of my newest brother. But it seems you beat me to it.” He reached his hand out to shake Nolan’s. ”I suppose a welcome is in order.”

Was it polite to shake the hand of a noble when he offered it? Wasn't someone of lower birth like him supposed to bow when greeting someone of a higher social standing or would it be considered rude to not accept a handshake when offered regardless of status? It had been so long since he had to greet anyone properly; how was he supposed to do it? Duke Gideon had so much to teach him about the fine art of greeting others though he should be able to at least manage this much. 

Nolan straightened his posture and craned his neck upwards to look Drake in the eye as much as he could with hair covering his face, grabbing his hand for as firm a handshake he could give. "I, um, thank you my lord. You are much too kind."

Now that he got a good look at him, Drake really did look like what he imagined a lord to be; someone with a pleasant countenance and good humor with an intelligent glint in his eyes. He looked comfortable as a noble, in his own skin.

Nolan glanced over at the book that Drake was reading though he could not make out the cover though he went off the assumption that he was studying some affairs regarding the kingdom. "My apologies, I tore you away from your studies. I shall not make a nuisance of myself."

Drake felt his eyes roll. Not to mock Nolan, but to present a level of casual interaction. Drake knew something of Nolan’s backstory, his father made sure to share the tale over dinner at least 3 other times. He seemed shy and fragile, like a single wrong interaction could shatter this poor soul.

”Well for starters, you can call me Drake or brother. If we are a family it’s only prudent we address each other as such.” The young man paced back and grabbed the book, bringing it back to Nolan to show him its cover.

”Studying is just learning fun, useful things for later. I was just reading up on rules regarding horse theft. I hear you’re quite the learned one yourself, Nolan.”

He shook his head and with it his bangs like a shaggy dog that desperately needed grooming. It was an odd thing for him to be a learned street child, he knew that. If one were to pick a street child off the streets of Sorian and ask them to read a sentence or solve a written math problem, they would not even know where to begin. 

"Oh, not as learned as you as I assure you my-, Drake. I am still behind my peers." Nolan examined the cover inquisitively. It was not a very exciting cover; it looked like one of those very stuffy academic books that presented its contents in a manner so dry that one would need a pinch to the cheek to stay awake.

"Grand Theft Palomino?" Nolan muttered to himself with an arched brow. He lifted his head to look at Drake again unconvinced, and said, "...Are you sure that this is fun to read or are you convincing yourself?"

Drake snickered. ”Your Drake, huh?” He closed the book purposefully, a dull thud sending bits of air flying up towards him, as if to simultaneously poof his hair. But he would never admit such an ulterior motive.

Nolan made a noise akin to a small yelp when the book shut so close to him. The puff of air that poofed his hair revealed his bright green eyes and his flushed cheeks that lit up a rather pretty face. A little pout formed on his face as focused on fixing his bangs.

”I convince myself of a lot of things, but it’s true that knowing anything could mean everything. Just depends on who or what you ask and when.” Drake shelved the book into its spot, and ran a finger along the spines until his hand landed on a much more colorful book than the rest.

Its title read “Did you Know? A Trivia Masterwork, pt. 32”. ”Here is the more fun stuff. You happen to be a trivia buff, Nolan?”

They really did live completely different lives. A puff of air blew past his lips though it was hard to tell if he was chuckling or if that was a sigh when he wore such a polite smile on his lips. "I am afraid to say that the life I had lived left me with little time for trivia." Nolan stated though his tone was even and lacked any frustration.  

"However, that isn't to say that I am not eager or willing to learn, if you are offering." He followed up though he gave him a curious look. "If you are okay with it, I mean. You seemed quite... forgive me, but before that's the kind of look I would have given someone if I wanted to be left well enough alone. Were you expecting someone else?"

Drake palmed the book, shooting Nolan a curious glance. ”I believe that is commonly known as “RBF” — resting bitch face.” Drake snickered. ”When I’m ‘in the zone’ I look far more focused than I intend to be. So whatever pulls me out gets a bit of a death glare. It’s nothing personal, I swear.”

Flipping the book open, he decided to thumb through the various topics. Math, science, history, and all their various sub branches. Drake smiled and flipped to a random page under the Math section. Any budding genius had a soft spot for mathematics. Even if they “aren’t a trivia buff”.

”What is the smallest perfect number?”

"The smallest perfect number would be six followed by twenty eight, then four hundred and ninety six, and then eight thousand, one hundred and twenty eight and then so on." Nolan answered without taking a moment to think about it. "Currently, the only perfect numbers that are known are even numbers though they have not disproved that odd ones do not exist nor do we know if they exist infinitely."

Drake smirked. He saw the effortless way this kid recalled all of that in a moment. He might not be a trivia buff but that doesn’t mean he was a budding mass of intellect ready to hyperfixate and overexplain any and all topics. Drake found himself fascinated already. He wanted to see his adopted brother’s potential for himself. ”Alright, hot shot. What is the one polygon that can tile a plane by itself without leaving gaps?”

Nolan tilted his head and looked puzzled or as discernibly puzzled as possible considering his hair covered his eyes. He failed to understand why Drake looked so pleased when he answered the first question. It was rather a simple question, just like the next one though he made a face at the specific wording 

"That's a trick question, or rather, just plainly wrong because there are three regular polygons that can tile a plane without leaving gaps, explained Nolan. "An equilateral triangle, a square, and a hexagon. If we are counting irregular polygons then they're several more, but I digress."

"If you need an example, the tiles in the estate library are made up of square tiles." He pointed rather vaguely to its general direction, at least where he thought it was in the maze of a home. It would not have surprised him if he was pointing towards the opposite direction where he meant. How anyone was meant to navigate the estate was beyond his scope of understanding.

Drake nodded, noting the ease of which he spoke about topics that even more learned scholars took ample time to fully understand. ”Sounds to me like you are just such a know-it-all that even trivia fails to properly test your knowledge.” He said with a smirk. ”But then again I chose a pretty easy topic I’m sure. You said you want to learn right? What’s a topic that interests you? We’ve got all afternoon before supper, and I’m happy to show you where everything is or how to find what you’re looking for. We have an entire record on file that is solely there to keep track of just how many books there are.”

Drake spoke with an odd sense of excited enthusiasm. He didn’t ever really study with anyone before. The prospect intrigued him, and thus he wanted to try and snag what little dopamine he could from trying to “nerd out” with his new brother.

Drake had received another pout from Nolan upon being called the boy a 'know it all' though all was forgiven just as quickly when the promise of books and knowledge were laid out. Nolan  asked in disbelief "Are there that many books?" Of course it was a silly question. He had been in the library before though he could never begin to imagine or quantify just how many books there were in that room alone. The sheer fact that there were maybe even more books was baffling. How was he supposed to start with just a single subject?

"I don't know. I mean, I don't know where to even start," admitted Nolan. One day he was dying on the streets and now he could learn and learn to his heart's content, but it was just too overwhelming. It was like offering a starving person a buffet; he had no idea what he even wanted to learn first. 

The boy tilted his head and asked, "Where should I start?"

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