[IC] 🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

[AuthenticTomb]

Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Attire: Aslam's Outfit
Interactions: , Askel - @Remram, Munir - @Infinite Cosmos, Ranya - @Tae, Farim - @Lava Alckon
Mentions: Hafiz - @princess
Color Code: #FEF698

---

Aslam kept his smile tight as Hafiz tossed Askel's and Ranya's budding romance into the open by bringing specific attention down on them. He took solace that at the very least he was leaving, taking one last cheap shot before running away. What he had not expected was for Farim to make his way over following his father's retreat. He gave him a brief, appraising look before offering a smile of acknowledgement. The part of his that was so furious and frustrated at Hafiz wanted to lump Amira and Farim in the same boat. However, he had had spoken enough with Amira on the voyage over her and with Farim previously to understand their position. They were welcome in this budding circle.

"You always have such a unique and interesting way of phrasing things, Farim." His hand waved away his apology. "You are not him and unlike your father you are truly welcome to join us." He didn't know if it was fate or just poor luck for Askel that the various representatives of Alisdatht were coming down upon him now.

Aslam held his drink up along with Munir and took a drink with him. "I worry for the rest of the world if we are able to hold onto such fortune."

He had begun to smile seeing Ranya stand by Askel's side, holding his hand, when his keen eyes spotted the bruising. For a moment, Aslam's gaze went unfocused and distant as the grip on his chalice made the color of his knuckles shift. He visibly took a deep breath as he put the thought and sight away, catalogued for later in order to focus on this moment.

Munir speaking first gave him the moment to calm himself and collect his thoughts, though he gave his brother a raised brow at his first statement. A bold opening move against Ranya and one he was not about to back him on.

"We had a chance to talk before we were interrupted and you will have my full support, as always Ranya. Just wait til I tell you everything he had to share about you." His gaze softened along with his tone with his lips curling into a mischievous smirk at the end.

His attention shifted up to Askel and he looked at him with a stern, focused look. "I got to see your character firsthand tonight. I am not going to warn you of dangers you are surely aware of nor make any threats. I only hope that you uphold that character for as long as you stand by her side. Do that much...and I'll look forward to the day I may call you brother." It may have been early to make such a bold statement, but it was partly to see if he could embarrass his sister in his own way.

[SilverSpring]

Time: Evening
Location: Ballroom
Mention: Callum, Nik @HylianRose
Interactions: Anastasia @Princess
Appearance:

Ari smiled at Annie as they slowly strode away from the group. Interlocked her arm around the princess's, Ari gently escorted her friend through a sea of people at a rather slow pace to not alarm her guard dog. Though she still wasn’t certain he hadn’t found a bone to chew on somewhere.

” I’m not surprised to see you here, though it makes me sad that you are Annie.” she said softly so only she could hear. Her emerald eyes flicked towards her friend masking their conversation with a soft smile. ”I know it is likely not by choice or perhaps maybe a needed distraction, but I wanted to make sure you were okay and to say how sorry I am… Ari didn't specify what, she didn’t feel like it needed to be said. Maybe not mentioning the Queen by name would be easier for Anastasia, though the loss of a parent likely would never be easy no matter how much you mask it.

”Have you seen your brother at all? Cal?” she added ”I haven’t seen him since Drunkard's day and with everything going on, I would be lying if I didn’t say I wasn’t worried.” she was more than worried however, but there was no use in bringing that up now.

[princess]

Time: Evening
Location: The Castle Ballroom
Interactions: Ariella @Silverspring
Attire: Dress

---

Anastasia smiled softly at her friend and gently took her hand with a fond squeeze.

"Thank you," she said simply.

It was all she could manage at first after all.

Life had changed since the banquet. Guards upon guards filled every crevice of the castle now, darkening every doorway, every hall, every stray patch of moonlight that slipped through the windows. There was now even one posted near her balcony nightly. They had not objected to Farim’s visits, which meant Edin had likely ordered them not to. Perhaps he thought it would keep her quieter if she had something pretty to look forward to.

Perhaps he thought a lovesick daughter was easier to contain than a grieving one.

He was wrong.

Every day since Drunkard’s Day, she had pestered him about Callum.

And every day, Edin told her the same thing. They were looking. They knew enough. She was not to worry. She was not, under any circumstances, to leave the castle.

In truth, she was barely allowed to choose anything anymore. If she left her room in certain dresses, she was asked to return and change. If her hair was loose, someone appeared with a brush and pins. If she spoke out, she was reminded to be silent.

Suddenly, she had to pray daily. Suddenly, she had to repent and beg the Gods for forgiveness for a sin she had never committed.

So much had changed that she did not feel like the same girl who had sat with Farim and Ariella in the tavern only days ago.

But when Ariella mentioned Callum, life had sparked back in her dull gaze and her posture straightened.

"Officially, he is missing," she began lowly. "I have been forbidden from looking for him, but I have been assured, apparently—"

Callum died the moment he opened a book. The brother you knew is gone, Ana.

She broke off her statement very suddenly.

For a second, Anastasia looked as if she had been struck by something no one else could see. Her eyes watered before she could stop them, and she wrapped her arms around herself, fingers digging into the fabric of her sleeves as her mouth pressed into a fine line.

She glanced once toward the crowd. Then toward the guards.

When she looked back at Ariella, her eyes shone with fear."Can we please talk in the hallway, Ari?"

[HylianRose]

Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Attire: Dress
Interactions: @Chrys Amira, @princess Count Emil, @Potter Elena, @remram Magnus
Mentions: None

^{_{___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________}}

Nora couldn't help but overlap Emil's face with another she had regrettably become familiar with. A braver Nora would have had the desire to punch him, knock his lights out and make him regret ever talking to them.

Nora was not brave.

Remaining where she stood instead of hiding behind her sister already felt like more than enough bravery.

"It is a joy to meet you, Lady Elena," Amira greeted her sister, her voice soft. Oh, she was so cute...

Her jaw twitched the instant Emil said her sister's name. Heat prickled across her fingertips, sharp enough to make panic curl in her stomach, and instinctively she reached for Nox.

'I am here. Do not worry.'

She didn't like the way this man looked at her siblings and the anger welling up inside of her was threatening to spill into something she refused to acknowledge. As she felt Nox slip closer to her, she felt the tingle in her fingers dissipate again. Her disgust remained.

Then he looked at her.

Her fleeting courage faltered instantly, every thought scattering like frightened birds. By the time she realized his attention had shifted away again, Amira was already staring at her for help.

However, Nora was somewhere else entirely.

Before she could even process it, the looming figure of her sister stepped in front of her. She glanced up, confused.

”Ladies, why don’t you go find us a table and bring food?” It was not a question–Nora would recognize it as her command to get out. She gave her a look that read: “don’t argue with me, go.”

She felt the swell of emotion that came with her siblings protecting her. She hated this feeling. Hated always being the one protected instead of the protector. Part of her wanted to rip the words straight from his throat for speaking about her sister so casually. But wanting and doing had always been very different things for Nora.

Still, she knew better than to argue with her sister, despite her desire to. She turned to Amira and gently placed her hand at the girls' elbow. "Let's be off, hm?" She asked in a trembling voice she couldn't quite mask.

It was then that she heard the booming voice of her brother.

"Do we have a problem?"

Yes. It was absolutely time to go now. She did not want to be near Magnus and how he would be treating that man.

As she tugged Amira, however, a servant approached her carrying a beautiful bouquet of flowers for the girl. Nora blinked, seeing the name. Her head snapped back to her brother, her eyes wide. A look that said, "When did you meet someone?!"

"I - I do not know a Magnus! This - this must be a mistake." Amira called out, trying to stop the servant. "I... do not know a Magnus."

Now, Nora was torn between her sister's earlier command and her desire to know what the heck Magnus was doing sending this woman flowers. Why hadn't he told her that he fancied someone? Was he keeping things from her?!

"I'll tell you all about him..." Nora grumbled, looking back at Magnus as she turned back to Amira again. "Let's go. I promise you, we will ask him later." She told Amira, gently tugging at her wrist to coax her into coming with her.

[Remram]

Askel Camila

Location: Grand Ballroom
Attire: Starry Night Attire
Interactions @Lava Alckon Farim @Infinite Cosmos Munir @AuthenticTomb Aslam @Tae Rayna
Mentions:@princess Hafiz

---

It was a good thing that Hafiz had made that announcement as soon as he was out of arms reach of the prince; the Grand Vizier would have become profoundly knowledgeable of what his own back looked like. Of course, when the snake had been shown that his idle threats wouldn't scare him and when physical retaliation was not an option he would resort to such petty actions before retreating. The rage in Askel's eyes was evident though it had only given way when Hafiz had walked away, pure murderous rage.

That heat in his eyes was quenched by the sudden presence of another man, handsome and in pink with a kind, yet apologetic smile. Either this man was just as much of a snake as his father or he really was cut from a different cloth entirely. Askel had decided that it was most likely the latter, but if that was the case then the apple fell as far from the tree as possible.

Askel returned the smile and said, "Askel Camila, Prince of Varian and knight of the kingdom. I could only wish we'd have met better under better circumstances." He reached out and grabbed Farim's hand for a firm, yet cordial. This Shehzade gave him a good feeling about, someone that he felt like was going to be on his side in this conflict between Hafiz and himself. The man was warm not just to him as if he was trying to keep the relationship between Alidasht and Varian in order, but to his own cousins that stood by the prince.

"Don't apologize Shehzade Farim. You are not responsible for your father's behavior." Askel patted Farim's shoulder though from behind the Shehzade he could see someone approach them, someone with fire in her eyes. His beloved rushed to his side, bruised and with eyes fresh with tears from before. It all made his stomach twist in a knot with unyielding anger though she ease it. Ranya claimed his hand as a firm proclamation that he was hers and demanded her brothers' assessment who in varying degrees gave their support to the couple.

"I only had an idea though you are right, understanding is a very different thing. Now that I've got a good look at him, well, I have a better picture of what I am working with." He turned his head to look at Ranya and smiled adoringly. "But it'll be worth it. She's worth it."

Askel lifted her entwined hand and gently pressed a kiss upon it. He didn't care who saw or what rumors they would whisper. This was his own declaration. "Ranya al Kadir, Hafiz may have stolen our moment to reveal our relationship on our terms, but he hasn't stolen the night." His arm linked with hers and he turned to her family with a cheeky grin. "My apologies gentleman, but I am going to steal her away for a song or two."

[Tae]

Mina Blackwood

Time: Evening
Location: Blackwood Rooms —> Starry Night Ball
Attire: Dress & Hair
Interaction: @HylianRose Lucian @princess Marina @Remram Nolan @Lava Alckon Drake
Mentions: @Oso Ambrose @CitrusArms Stratya

The air around Mina felt heavy. There was no smoke from a pyre this time, but the weight of her past pressed in on her, refusing to let go.

Ambrose’s voice was rough, missing the boyish warmth she remembered. When he called her Lady Blackwood, the formality stung. It felt like the last bit of summer between them was gone.

“The fault was mine for being in your way.”

Mina’s heart twisted. He was apologizing for existing in her space, while she was the one who had broken his world for a mercy he never wanted. She wanted to look at him, to tell him that his presence had always made her feel safe. But she couldn’t. If she saw the grief for his sister in his eyes, or the last traces of the love she had tried to smother, she would fall apart.

The Edwards brothers arrived, breaking into her thoughts like sunlight through a window. Mina noticed the younger one, Nolan, slightly stumbling over his words as he looked at Marina. The open admiration in his eyes was so simple, so honest, and nothing like the mess she carried. For a moment, she wished she could have something that easy—a beginning without blood or secrets.

Then the Captain of the Guard approached. Mina glanced at Stratya Durmand, who stood tall and steady, drawing Ambrose’s attention. When the Captain asked him to dance, Mina felt a sharp pang. It wasn’t jealousy—she had no claim to that—but a hollow ache, as if she no longer belonged.

Good, a cold voice in her head whispered. Let him find a woman who isn't a shadow. Let him dance with someone who doesn't smell of resin and regret.

"Ambrose, you are dismissed!" Marina’s voice cut through the tension like a bright silk ribbon.

Mina hardly had time to notice Ambrose leaving before Marina crashed into her, all red hair and lilac scent. The hug was fierce, nearly knocking the breath from her, but for the first time that day, Mina felt the cold inside her start to melt.

"I missed you, I missed you, I missed you!" Marina chirped, her lips pressing affectionate kisses to Mina’s cheeks.

Mina’s arms came up instinctively, hugging her best friend back with a desperation she hoped the Princess wouldn't notice. "Marnie," she murmured, her voice finally losing its brittle, formal edge. For a moment, she buried her face in Marina’s shoulder, hiding from the room, hiding from the ghosts. "You’re going to ruin my hair, you absolute menace."

She pulled back just enough to see Marina’s face, her own eyes softening. After the horror of the morning and the worry over her uncle, Marina was the only light that didn’t hurt.

Even as she smiled at Marina, Mina’s eyes wandered. Without meaning to, she looked past Ambrose, past Lord Nolan, and found Lucian.

He was right there.

She had noticed his eyes on her gown, lingering on the golden roses she had sewn in as a quiet message. He had seen them. He understood. The small, amused smile on his lips sent a jolt through her, sharper than any magic she possessed.

Then Nolan asked Marina to dance, and Mina’s attention shifted back to them. She watched her friend, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Go," Mina said, her voice warm. "We’ll have plenty of time to catch up later—maybe even a slumber party like before. I could use it."

She nudged Marina toward Nolan, watching her with a bittersweet ache that was almost joy.

When Marina had moved away with Nolan, Mina suddenly noticed how much space had opened up between her and Lucian. She took a slow breath and stepped toward him and Drake, her usual mask slipping away, leaving her exposed.

"The golden roses were a late addition," she said quietly, her voice almost lost in the music. She offered a small, graceful dip of her head to Drake before her eyes settled back on the Prince. "I thought... perhaps the Rose of Varian should look the part tonight, even in a garden like this."

She tilted her head, a small, hopeful smile appearing before looking between Lucian and Drake. She couldn't ignore the heir to the Edwards line standing right there, a witness to the strange, vibrating tension.

"You both look remarkably composed for men surrounded by so much chaos," she remarked, her gaze lingering a second longer on Lucian’s auburn hair before including Drake in her focus. "Lord Drake, Prince Lucian... are you truly as calm as you appear, or are we all just giving very convincing performances tonight?"

[princess]

Interaction: @Potter Elena @HylianRose Nora @Chrys Amira @remram Magnus

Elena stepped between them, and Emil’s smile did not falter.

If anything, the gesture made his smile grow larger. He merely watched her with that same patient interest, eyes lifting over her face, then lowering politely. She was taller than the trembling one, steadier too.

There was more fire in her.

Emil had sensed it the moment she arrived, but now, with her body placed so deliberately between himself and the other two girls, it showed itself more clearly. She was protective. She was angry.

Emil found that ever so charming.

The order she gave the girls was not framed like one. ”Ladies, why don’t you go find us a table and bring food?” Yet Emil heard command in it easily enough, and he suspected Nora did too. His gaze shifted just enough to catch the way the frightened girl obeyed despite the misery in her face. Poor thing.

She wanted to be brave so badly that it was almost painful to witness. Almost. Her hand trembled, her voice trembled, even the anger in her seemed uncertain where to go. It was a lovely little contradiction, and Emil found himself disappointed that Elena was sending her away so soon.

Then Elena moved closer, and Emil’s attention returned to her fully.

Emil took note of everything.

”As for you, I’ve heard enough about you to know that a sewer rat would be more fit for your title.”

For a moment, Emil simply looked at her.

Then his smile widened, not much, but enough to show she had pleased him.

“Lady Elena,” he murmured with warmth. “You must be careful with such accusations. One might think you came over here hoping to wound me.”

He did not sound wounded. He sounded entertained.

Emil wondered how often she had done this. How often she had made herself the spine. It was a tedious position for most people, but Elena wore it well enough to make it attractive.

Amira’s reply came softer, uncertain, and troubled.

"I - I... I believe my.. friend will tell me more later."

Emil’s eyes slid past Elena’s shoulder toward the girl. Sweet thing. He let his expression soften with such convincing disappointment. “How sensible.”

Then a hand settled heavily on his shoulder.

Emil did not immediately look at it. He allowed the owner of that hand to enjoy whatever little triumph he thought he had purchased by touching him. Men like Magnus Pawonska were familiar enough.

Emil felt the strength in the grip and the warning behind it.

At last, Emil lifted his gaze toward him. Magnus stood over him with all the cold displeasure of a protective brother. His eyes were direct. There was nothing theatrical about his threat, which made it better than most.

"Do we have a problem?"

Emil’s smile became politely curious.

“I certainly hope not.” His tone remained smooth, and he made no attempt to pull away from the hand on his shoulder. “It would be a terrible shame to disturb His Majesty’s evening over a conversation.”

His eyes lingered on Magnus a moment longer before drifting toward Nora. He let the movement be obvious enough for Magnus to see it. “You should be cautious, Lord Pawonska... I can see your heart in your eyes.”

He let the words sit between them a moment before he added in a whisper,“And hearts are such inconvenient things when one has sisters.”

Then came the servant.

The interruption was absurd enough that Emil nearly admired it. A bouquet was placed into Amira’s hands, and she stared at the flowers as if they had been handed to her by mistake, which, judging by the color flooding her face and the immediate panic in her voice, they almost certainly had been.

"I - I do not know a Magnus! This - this must be a mistake."

Emil’s eyes moved from the bouquet to Magnus, then to Nora. “How curious,” he said softly, his amusement barely hidden. However, when he said his next statement, his eyes were on Magnus, not on Nora. “For a moment, I thought we had discovered a romance.”

Nora began guiding Amira away with urgency, tugging at her wrist.
His attention followed Nora and Amira for only a moment before his eyes returned to Elena. He took a step toward her and leaned a little closer. “There. They are leaving.”

His eyes remained fixed on Elena’s face.

“That was what you wanted, was it not?” he asked in a kind tone.

He allowed his gaze to rest on her with open interest now. “You wanted my attention away from them.”

His voice softened further. “You want me all to yourself...” Emil whispered, the words quiet enough to belong only to her. “Don’t you, Elena?”

He let the implication linger just long enough to be uncomfortable before he straightened.“So let us make a deal.”

His hand lifted between them, and he offered it toward her, “Dance with me.” Then he mouthed, “Refuse me, and I may grow curious again.”

[SilverSpring]

Time: Evening
Location: Ballroom
Mention: Callum
Interactions: Anastasia @princess
Appearance:
Ari froze. Missing…

Feeling the pit of her stomach turn as the color slightly drained from her cheeks. She knew something was wrong, she had felt it since that night but the confirmation that there really was something wrong…she felt sick.

Cal…

After what felt like a lifetime, Ari finally smiled softly attempting to mask any concern.

"Can we please talk in the hallway, Ari?"

Nodding, she led them towards an empty hallway leading towards one of the many stairs but not before swiping some drinks from a tray. Tucking themselves out of sight, Ari offered Annie one of the glasses of… well she wasn’t sure what it was she just hoped it was strong.

”Why are you forbidden to look for him? she whispered, keeping mind to keep her voice down.

[princess]

Time: Evening
Location: Ballroom
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @Potter Olivia @Oso Cassius
Mention: @FunnyGuy Lorenzo

---

“I seemed off because you walked in looking like that, love.”

Charlotte stared at those pretty eyes of his.

Ordinarily, she might have looked away by now, absolutely flustered. She might have busied herself with fiddling with her jewelry, or pretending to notice something very fascinating about the tablecloth.

But tonight, though she felt a certain rush, she didn't feel the need to run and hide.

Her arm rested against the back of the chair gracefully, though her fingers tightened around the rim all the same. That was the curious thing. The spell had done precisely what she had asked of it... It had stripped the fear right from her chest.

And yet her heart still fluttered.

It was more dangerous, perhaps, because it made her want to lean closer instead of step away. Her eyes stayed on Cassius with unguarded fondness. Without quite realizing it, she caught her lower lip between her teeth, then smiled like she had discovered a secret.

“Oh?” she asked innocently as she leaned in, setting her elbow upon the table and settling her face into her palm. Her lashes lowered slightly, but her smile remained. “Like what, Cassius ?”

"What the hell is going on with you?"

Charlotte paused.

Her head turned slowly toward Olivia, though her lips remained parted. For a moment, she looked exactly like a girl who had been caught with her hand in the cookie jar.

“Um...”

It was not, she felt, her most elegant contribution to the conversation.

Her gaze flicked briefly to Cassius. He was watching her too now, waiting for the answer. But there was no delicate way to say that she had cast a spell on herself. Olivia had warned her more than once not to meddle with magic alone, and she had told Cassius she wouldn't do magic. Technically, she did say she would TRY not to.

Either way, she did not want to lie to them. Not to them.

Her shoulders slumped, and some of the mischief slipped from her expression as her brows lifted and she frowned. “Someone wrote something rather ridiculous about me in the paper,” she relented with a sigh. “Apparently, I tried to throw myself from the balcony at the last ball.”

She looked to Olivia then, and the faintest ironic curve returned to her mouth.“Couldn’t possibly imagine who would encourage such a charming little interpretation, could we?”

That smile did not last long. “Anyway,” Charlotte continued, drawing a trembling breath, “I spent the morning shredding that newspaper into tiny, tiny pieces," The memory of it brought a flicker of anger back to her face, sharp enough to make her nose scrunch in a show of disgust. “ ...because the very last thing I need is Lorenzo believing I mean to follow after his late wife.”

Normally, she would have left it at that, but she found herself pressing onward. “Not when Prince Wulfric already thinks Lorenzo may be suicidal, and not when he is apparently mixing his—” Charlotte lifted both hands and made little air quotation marks with her fingers, “—medicine—”

Her smile faltered as the room around her seemed to blur at the edges. “—with his alcohol.”

A nearby servant passed with a silver tray of blue cocktails, and Charlotte suddenly lifted one hand to motion him over, “Please, sir, bring those over here.”

The servant obeyed, though when he merely offered the tray for her to choose, Charlotte gave him a pleasant smile and requested that he leave the whole thing. “Thank you so much, you are terribly kind,” she told him warmly and patted his forearm with such open sincerity that the poor man flushed pink, bowed hastily, and hurried off.

She subsequently plucked one glass from the tray without even properly looking at him. The drink was sweet when she swallowed it, cool on her tongue with a pleasant taste of berries and sugar.

Then she lowered the glass and looked between them both with a smile that was many things at once: lovely, stubborn, and not entirely convincing. “All this to say,” she said, her voice light again, “I am quite fine, my lovelies.”

She lifted the glass toward them. “I would like to have fun tonight.”

The book had not warned her. It wasn't surprising that her other emotions were present; the spell was to simply remove fear. However, the emotions that did remain were more vivid and merciless than she had expected, filling the hollows that her anxiety had once lived in.

[samreaper]

Kazumin Nagasa

Time: Evening
Location: Castle Ballroom- Starry night ball
Interactions: @reusablesword Roman @authentictomb Sylvia
Mentions: @potter Persephone/Olivia, Elena @princess Marina, King Edin Charlotte, Calbert, Hafiz, Emil, Anastasia @oso Cassius @Lava Alckon Farim, Drake

Mr. Kazoo, the skip meister

(image credited by princess/na)

---

The interruption to find his friends had proven to be more needed than Kazu initially thought. Finding his feet burning from all the dancing and hopping he had just done, some of it he struggled to recall doing, as his body simply moved to a beat with his heart the instrument. And for a moment, he had been able to make himself forget the horrible events of this morning, where fun had taken him.

Only to be met with the thunderous laughter of King Edin, which left him wholly conflicted and added to the whirlpool of confusion and terrifying trauma that had been threatening to drown him this past year. He wanted to enjoy and take satisfaction in the fact that he could make the king of all people laugh so boisterously; the laughter appeared genuine, as if entertained, but there was an unsettling edge hinting at a more insidiousness behind the sound meant to demonstrate and express joy.

From him, it felt wrong and made him feel partially dirty having to dance for such a cruel and disgustingly unpleasant man. But he kept to heart that it was not for his sake, but for those suffering this suffocating dark cloud that the king and other nefarious individuals had blanketed the kingdom with.

A dour heaviness hung like a poisonous smog that had lessened within these halls. An effect he hoped his dancing had brought; a joyful respite, if even only for tonight; a fun night he intended to have shared with his friends, whether they be newly made like the lovely lady before him or Sir Roman, whom he feared had possibly ruined after a fumbled attempt at a joke to lighten the mood.

"We were simply discussing our favorite sweets presented at his ball."

A Delighted raise of the brow upon mention of sweets.” Sweets, you say?!” The cowlicked blonde momentarily turned his attention to the table previously obscured by Roman. A single whiff of cream and fruit had him nearly drooling with anticipation, his belly rumbling in agreement.

He returned his attention to the woman before him and was flashed with a sugary bright smile waiting for him. Seeing her in an uplifting mood and enjoying the flower brightened his once hesitant smile with a quick inspection revealing some cream stuck to her cheek.” It appears I’ve interjected upon snacking time, a most unfortunate, but also fortunate timing to be able to share such sweets with you, two delightful treats. And from the looks of how much you two have eaten, perhaps with fellow connoisseur of sweets?”

"Hmpf, I suppose I can forgive such a imposition on our very important discussion." A touched hand on his chest at the lady’s forgiving kindness, the smiling blonde prepared to bow, but paused at the way she gave an exaggerated motion, her tone sarcastic and playful as she carried on with introductions. "I am Princess Sylvia Camilia, happy to meet you Mr. Kazoo the mighty skip meister."

Kazu attempted to finish the bow.” My thanks, La- wait..did you say, princess?” His partially bent body remained awkwardly in place while his head shot up with wide-eyed surprise and quickly scrambled to give a more appropriate bow.” A most gracious pleasure to make your acquaintance, Princess Sylvia.” He started to reach out as if to give her hand a gentlemanly kiss, but was uncertain whether it was okay for one of his stature to touch the princess. His lessons with Lady Agatha mainly consisted of noblewomen, as she found the thought of him interacting with any royals a mocking laugh.

And here he was about to befriend his second princess, potentially.* Hah! Suck it, ya old saggy spinster!* He thought with a light, smug little bouncy titter of the head.

He could not help being reminded of Princess Ani with the playful manner she greeted him, and figured her the fun type not to mind and gently gave her hand a soft, respectful peck.” The skip Meister Kazoo gives his thanks for the princess's mercy for his rudeness.” He finished with some small hopping skips, easing the stiffness in his legs as well as doing so.

“ And he hopes it wouldn’t be any trouble to join and share in these scrumptious desserts together? The more to share with the merrier, I say. A good night to splurge free with glee beneath these wondrous stars, aye?” The blonde chuckled, feeling his hungry gut growing increasingly anxious at the promise of desserts.” How does that sound to you, Sir Roman-”

"Forgive me, I did not realize we were in the presence of the great Skip Meister himself."

He turned, expecting to see the towering figure either annoyed or agitated, but instead found the giant offering an exaggerated bow and a kindly sweet greeting that left him feeling touched, he started to return the bow, but had noticed the displeased stares of some nobles aimed their way; some snickering mockingly. He then waved to them all friendly-like with an unperturbed raised brow and cheeky grin.

"It's good to see you again, friend. I hope you are doing well."

Turing back to Roman with a lifting tap of the hat, adjusting it back on his head.” Please, such praise is too much, and if any should be asking forgiveness…” Again, he paused, taken off guard by the man seeing him as a friend, then to wear the flower proudly and unashamed had him clutch at his heart, immensely touched and foolish at his unwarranted fears. The man detested him after the way things ended at the tavern.

With a sniffling rub of his nose, Kazu jumped forward, placing his gloved hands on Roman’s shoulders with excited patting.” It’s a joy to see you as well, my friend, though it's only fair that I must apologize for how poorly our last encounter went. Let’s start anew with sweets, aye?”

He then leaned in close with the left hand sliding down to cover his mouth from Sylvia and prying eyes.” And by the way, I’ve little clue of what exactly went on that night, but you were magnificently brave, my good sir. As were all those who fought that darkness.” A coy wink in hopes he understood, as he could only do but to be vague, and while scary, whatever Roman had done exactly, it was undeniably cool.

He gave the man’s right shoulder an assuring pat with a hint of sadness. Regret touched his eyes briefly for mistaking the gentle blacksmith for a bad person. Thoughts of his horrid attitude toward Violet, while amidst such terrible tension, blinded him; unable to explain the reason or cause, but such a friendly exchange and the tavern proved him a good man.

Kazu wondered then if it had been someone forcing him to act so reprehensibly, and hoped to discern the truth of it. But such unpleasant talks were better shared over a drink.

Just as he thought suggest they meet up for drinks, had he realized Charlotte’s name had been called and whirled on the spot in hopes of seeing the last of her descent, only to find her already passed.” Ah, what?!” Clapping his hands to his forehead in disappointed disbelief.” Nooo, damn it! Darn you, distracting me, ya big bear.” He muttered half-annoyed and half jokingly with puffed cheeks, then let his arms sag with a defeated sigh.

The dissatisfied blonde tried searching the crowds but had little luck without a starting point. The closest he had was a trail of people with astonished expressions, possibly hinting at her passing, though to leave them in such shocked states left him curious and somewhat concerned about what kind of fit could cause such a reaction. Knowing her, she might have gone to Cassius or Olivia; if they were already together, then it only made him mutter in unfair jealousy.

Starting to feel a bit deflated when hearing his name mentioned and turned back to them, his arms waving with a sad wag until Roman mentioned him to be trustworthy, bringing him to tilt his head with a hidden bashful blush.

"If my memory serves me right, I do believe Kazumin here is a mighty slayer of all things pudding-related."

Lifting his head, bright-eyed and smiling widely with both hands grabbing the brim of his hat, he lifted it joyfully above his head.” Aye! You have a stout memory, indeed, Sir Roman. No pudding is safe before this skip meister’s hungry wrath! Pray hide the chocolatey goodness, but little good it will do for this nose is as wily as a hound for em.” The blonde exclaimed in giggling jest. And with an excited settling pat of his hat, like an upbeat cat, he bounced over to join the chat.

Sliding to a stop between the two, taking a moment to roam his eyes over the many plates of sweets, wringing his hand with drooling eyes. A low rumbling hum of his belly, encouraging him to dig in as his hands snatched like primed snakes holding pastries in each hand. Moving to scarf them down, but caught himself short with his mouth hanging inches from the creamy treat in his left hand as his eyes shifted back and forth between Roman and Sylvia, nearly forgetting their presence in his excitable haste.

Lowering the pastry with an awkward chuckle.” Oops, nearly forgot my manners there.” Setting the one in his right hand down, then grabbed a napkin and gave it a wide flicking fluff before delicately tucking it under his collar.” There we are! Here’s to a joyous night of fun.” Then leaned over to whisper to Sylvia.” And to reckless pigging out..the only proper way to eat with friends.” A playful wink before pulling back, where he scooped the set pastry and shoved one after the other into his mouth with audible pleased hums and groans from the high-quality sweet flavor.” ogmahgosh! Tis is soh delichious!” His body trembled and wiggled side to side in pure childlike bliss.

Again and again, his hands shot out over the table, swiping cookies, strudels, cupcakes, and whatever other scrumptious choices were offered. His hands moved with skillful precision and delicate touch, ensuring nothing was squished, ripped, or broken apart before vanishing into his eager mouth with giddy gulps.

Before long, his cheeks were puffed and covered in crumbs and cream. He paused only after overdoing it a tad and had to pat his chest as the thought of wiping his cheeks, instead, an amusing joke came to mind.” Hey, may I offer you two some cream puffs?” Pointing at his cream-covered cheeks, he then puffed up his cheeks with barely contained snickers.

Only managing to hold it a few seconds longer before letting out a sputtering laugh while lifting the napkin to clean off his cheeks.

“ Mhm, whoever the chef was that made this gorgeous spread deserves a kiss.” Miming a chef’s kiss of his fingers with a hum, then moved for another but halted, recalling the thought.” Ah right, it slipped my mind. I’ve had a thought, Sir Roman, to ask if you would like to join me for a drink sometime in the next few days. I’d greatly enjoy spending the night chatting about blacksmithing and whatnot..er, that is if the idea is fine with ya?” Giving an awkward nod and friendly pat to his big arm.” The offer’s open up to you too, Princess Sylvia..though if drinking the night away isn’t to your fancy, you could hit up the bakery and eat them out of stock.” Kazu laughed boisterously, feeling a bit of sugar high, and though his tone was silly, his every word was genuine.

With a satisfied nod, Kazu grabbed a small cupcake, but decided against eating it at the moment, letting his gaze wander about to get a lay of the hall. In doing so, he would take notice of several familiar faces like Drake, whom he hoped to thank for the letter; it brought comfort to know the folks involved with the tavern were well and safe. Prince Farim, who had a small group gathered and was just barely catching one departing, the familiar Alidasht that had blown up at Lorenzo. The man gave off an unpleasant vibe, and from the stifling, discomforting air hanging around them, he guessed something must have happened to him.

Letting his gaze carry him on to take notice of a red-haired man, well-groomed and in a gentlemanly dress. They held a wide smile that at first glance seemed harmless. Yet, something about the way he smiled unnerved him, making his skin crawl, and he hated that something lovely as a smile could instill such a chilling feeling. He could not help but feel for the two women stuck interacting with the guy, as the one in the back appeared uncomfortable, while the dark-haired woman, who did not seem to balk at the man’s foreboding grin.

A part of him wondered if he might spot the lady who helped him this morning, but with such a brief meeting, he doubted his chance of recognizing her, and he had little wish to recall the evening so soon.

Brushing the dark image aside as he made the mental note to thank her if they ran into each other. Then there was Princess Ani, but she had little luck finding her, which elicited an agitated huff in failing to find his friends.

Still, he was determined to meet with them soon as he was able..and done stuffing his face. He needed the energy after all.

A disappointed shake of the head, having him catch sight of Calbert, only to find himself doing a double-take.* Whoa, hang on? Does he..look bigger?He stared with narrowing eyes in befuddled disbelief; the surrounding crowd made it difficult to get a good look.

After struggling to check, Kazu decided to put it aside and wait till he was closer, though the thought of a ripped Calby was a harrowing and terrifying prospect.

With an unsettling shudder, the cowlicked blonde returned his attention to the cupcake held aloft a short distance from his face. Atop it sat a vibrant, plump strawberry, and he found himself gazing with a wistful longing at the sweet fruit.

He gulped as if ready to eat, but seeing the strawberry brought images of lush strawberry hair, and he felt as if deep emerald eyes peered back at him. With a nervous gulp and pinkish tint to his cheeks, unable to help but envision a kiss as sweet as strawberries.

The rising heat of his cheeks was soon noticed, and with it, his eyes went wide in embarrassed realization of the fact that he was staring at a cupcake and confused at the strange bubbly sensation he had just felt. With a hasty, awkward waving of his off-hand as if to brush away the spectral visage with the pretense he was taking a whiff of the dessert table aroma.” A-Aye, such beautiful work these cupcakes are…so good ya just got to take a moment to admire. Hahahahaha….” Kazu let out a nervous, forced raucous laugh before clumsily stuffing the cupcake whole in his mouth, both reveling and cursing in its enchanting sweetness.

[FunnyGuy]

Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Attire:
Interaction: Edin
Mention: Charlotte, Alidasht royalty, Alibeth

Lorenzo knelt before the King during his address to him, finding it to be the correct thing to do when faced with this unfamiliar version of the man. The late Queen Alibeth had always sat beside his highness for as long as he could remember, and she was never just some hanger-on. Queen Alibeth was not the king, but she held a different kind of power firmly in her grasp. Her presence itself made her seem untouched by treachery and unswayed by manipulations, and to think she was a witch of all things.

Lorenzo pondered as King Danrose spoke, if this man would retain this image of himself he had upheld for decades, or if he would morph into something unrecognizable to even himself. He knew more than anyone here, the grief that the scraggly bearded king pushed down in this moment. How much stronger was he than Lorenzo? To end the life of his wife with a coherent mind and sit here in all of his regality in front of so many, behaving as if she had never existed.

How much weaker was he?

Perhaps that is the true question.

“Tell me plainly, Duke. Do you intend to nearly start a war tonight, or shall we consider your arrival the worst of it?”

Lorenzo smirked while stifling a chuckle.

“No war tonight, your highness. I am on my best behavior.” Lorenzo dipped his head, deepening his bow. The mention of Kier, his ferret being present in secret, was something he had considered, but following Charlotte’s guidance on how to appear at this event, he decided it wouldn’t be right to bring him during the reception and introduction of the ball.

When Edin spoke of Charlotte making an unforgettable impression, he nodded, his face barely visible to the king, now.

“Enjoy yourself, Duke Vikena. Carefully. I am in a generous mood tonight, and that is a rare gift. I advise you to make the most of it.”

“Should I be careful or make the most of it, King Danrose? Tidal waves are far from subtle, and you’d do best to capitalize on the opportunity this ball presents. The previous ball left the Alidasht embarrassed but placed on a high pedestal as guests of our kingdom. So much so that they thought they could dirty the blood of Danrose with that tiger-toting princess…” Lorenzo refused to look up from his position, his voice low, and uncharacteristically foreboding. “Tonight, Charlotte Vikena proves that Caesonia will not be the ones awed by the sights of foreign royals. I urge you, your highness, to keep her presence as your north star, for your sons are not the prime target of a long-term power grab this time… It’s the widower king. All they require… are your lingering eyes, one glass too much, or your lament, kept beneath the weight of your mental fortitude, to surface. This is my rare gift back. Remember it…” Lorenzo lifted his head, meeting Edin’s gaze with that goofy smile of his.

“And you enjoy yourself as well, King Danrose! This ball is already shaping up to be better than the last!” Lorenzo hopped up to his feet and bowed to Edin. “We widowers will both be on our best behavior with so many beauties about!”

[princess]

_{Interaction:@FunnyGuy Lorenzo}

King Edin stared at Lorenzo for a long time.

The warmth of his earlier countenance slowly thinned from his face until there was nothing left of it.

Lorenzo Vikena, of all men, thought himself fit to offer guidance.

To tell him what to do.

Especially on the evening of his wife's execution.

Worse still, Lorenzo saw fit to allude to some grotesque connection between them over the fact that they were both widowers.

“Your gift,” he repeated, softly. His gaze drifted, only briefly, toward where Charlotte Vikena sat. She had not merely dressed herself tonight. No, there was a message sewn into that fabric, whether the girl understood it or not.

Or perhaps she understood perfectly.

Perhaps they both did.

His gaze returned to Lorenzo. He was right that the ballroom was certainly filled with predators waiting to pounce on such an opportunity. Edin had simply never expected the Vikenas to count themselves among them. “How thoughtful of you, Duke Vikena... To come before your king and advise him where he ought to place his eyes.”

The faintest smile formed, but it was not amused. “On your daughter, no less.”

Edin leaned back slightly, studying Lorenzo with open contempt now. His eyes flicked once more toward Charlotte, and his gaze darkened with terrible ideas.

“She wears her mother rather boldly tonight.... One might almost believe it was intentional."

King Edin suddenly rose to loom over Lorenzo and took a step forward. “Your daughter once offered her services to the Alidasht royalty in full view of my court.” The light left his eyes. “And yet I do not recall Lady Charlotte offering such devotion to her own king. In fact, she has not yet even greeted me tonight." He tilted his head with a humorless smile, “Curious, is it not? She would offer herself to the Alidasht, but not before her king, the one chosen by the gods themselves to protect and lead the kingdom she was born in.”

His voice lowered and grew poisonously intimate. “Her mother knew better.”

Edin’s gaze did not leave Lorenzo’s face.

“So tell me plainly, Duke Vikena. Is Lady Charlotte meant to guide me… or tempt me?”

The smile returned, thinner than before. "Are you offering me your daughter?"

[Potter]

Time: Evening
Location: Danrose Castle
Interactions: @SilverSpring Violet
Mentions: @oso Cassius

---

Kira set her hands on a chair and gestured to it to ask permission if she could sit beside her. She smiled pleasantly, but not overly.

“It’s nice to meet you.” Kira curtsied and then straightened up.

She then noticed the look behind her eyes and frowned. “Is there something wrong? You look a little upset, and I’m here for you if you need it. Between that and your beauty, I wanted to come check on you. After all, this should be a fun event, yes?”

She caught the eye of a waiter and gestured for him to come over. The server obediently came over and held out the tray for her. She smiled and took a plate full of sweets and set them in front of Violet. “Although... Balls can be a drag, too, right? they don't have to be though! I guess it depends on how extroverted you are. I feel a little out of sorts here. Maybe we can watch people together.” Kira grinned playfully, gesturing to the crowd. “Totally up to you though! I am fine either way.”

Kira waited for a reply and glanced at her politely, ready to read her, but not in a rude way to make her think she was staring. The scar across Violet’s eye, mixed with her red eyes and deep black hair, was a striking appearance. The poor girl stood out like a sore fucking thumb. There might as well have been a beacon screaming vampire to her. There was a sliver of sympathy for her. The poor girl was cursed like her.

Although the resemblance to Cassius made her skin crawl. She refused to look elsewhere in case she somehow made him materialize. The same night replayed in her head on repeat. Pain shot through her veins like whiskey. Regret was buried deep; too deep for her to think of it now. The fury and heartbreak over his betrayal rushed through her like a waterfall more strongly, ready to flood and overtake everything else instead. None of it showed on her face, and her body language was warm and friendly. Kira seemed as threatening as a kitten.

The dam would break eventually, and Kira would leave hell in its wake. She would ruin his life like he had ruined hers.

Kira took a deep breath and waited patiently for her reply.

[princess]

Time: Evening
Location: The Ball
Interactions: @Tae Mina @HylianRose Lucian @Remram Nolan @Lava Alckon Drake

---

"Has anyone ever told you that you are very disarming, Princess Marina?"

"YES." Marina answered immediately as she untangled herself from Mina. " I'm a very serene presence." She said this while still slightly breathless from attacking her friend with affection, which perhaps damaged the claim.

"If I had known that you had prepared a gift I would have brought you something as well. Just add that to the tally, I suppose."

Marina seemed to still be considering his first comment, her eyes drifting upward in thought. Then she tapped her cheek once and added, "One of our cooks once told me she thinks of me as a raccoon in a tiara." Then she paused, looked back at him, and seemed to remember what he had actually said. "Oh yes. Tallying."

Marina lifted her palm and pretended to write on it with an invisible pen. "Lord Nolan Edwards now owes me one mysterious future gift."

"I know this is abrupt, but if it please you, would you care for a dance?"

Marina’s invisible pen stopped, and her cheeks warmed. Her gaze rose, and she stared at him as a sudden rush of nerves caught her off guard.

He wanted to dance with her?

Really?

For a second, her mouth opened without producing anything useful at all. Then her expression brightened, and she offered her hand as if she had not just spent the last few seconds malfunctioning.

"Sure!"

Before she could take more than a step, Mina’s voice pulled her attention back over her shoulder. Marina’s smile widened at once.

"Yes! Slumber party in my room tonight!"

Then she leaned closer to Mina before fully stepping away, lowering her voice into a whisper. "Oh, and take good care of Lucian."

She gave Mina a small nudge, keeping her voice low.

"Don’t let him drink too much."

---

As Marina and Nolan positioned themselves a little ways away from the group, she suddenly paused, and with no warning whatsoever, she lifted the slit of her skirt to reveal her thigh.

“Hold this.”

The command came out nonchalantly, as if this were the most normal request in the world, and she held the fabric out toward him without waiting to see his face or hear his answer. Once the fabric was properly managed, whether by his startled hand or her own impatient one, she slipped her hand beneath the fabric and took hold of the garter strapped around her leg, twisting it until two little hidden pouches came into view.

She opened the first pouch and fished around inside it with intense focus, her brows knitting together until she finally plucked out a bracelet.

Then she straightened, looking deeply pleased with herself.

“Okay. So, while we were at the museum, I found these little charms in the gift shop of the beetles we saw,” she explained, holding it up between them, “but all their bracelets were ugly, honestly, and I have standards.”

She placed the bracelet in his palm. “So I bought a bracelet-making kit at the market, and I made you this one instead with the beetle charms.”

For once, her smile softened before it could turn smug. She lifted her own wrist, revealing her own charm bracelet resting against her skin.

“Some of the people dear to me and I have friendship bracelets,” she said quietly. “It was… something we used to do.”

Her gaze caught on the bracelet at her own wrist for half a second too long. The brightness in her expression dimmed briefly, like a shadow passing over a flame.

Then she swallowed and looked back at him. “I thought I might continue it,” she added, trying for casual and not quite reaching it. “Make some for the people I meet. The important ones, I mean. So I can feel connected to everyone, even when we all go scattering off into our own corners of the world.”

Her eyes shone faintly, and for a moment, her mouth pressed into a thin line. Then her nose scrunched, and she grimaced at herself. “Ugh. I made it sound cheesy, didn’t I?”

She shook her head and then offered him her arm with renewed brightness. “Anyway. Dancing!”

[Lava Alckon]

Farim

Location: Danrose Castle
Time: 10th of Ignis
Interactions: Hafiz @princess, Aslam @AuthenticTomb, Askel @remram, Ranya @Tae and Munir @Infinite Cosmos



There were so many casual threats thrown this poor man’s way. But he seemed to handle them in stride. Farim figured a strong man would be the one to find Ranya. But he wasn’t so sure it would’ve been here all of all places.

”It would seem the winds take us apart so soon after our meeting. We shall rejoice when you both return. And Ranya~.” Farim playfully sung to his cousin before adding. ”I expect all the wonderful details next time~!” But with that the lovestruck pair went off.

Looking at them, he found the pair quite adorable. So much so that it reminded him of himself and Annie, and then a slight pit formed in his chest. He looked around as if to spot her in the crowd, but she was nowhere to be seen. Likely still off with Lady Ariella. Even if he said it was fine for her to go there was still a small piece of him that always missed her when she wasn’t around.

Looking to his two cousins he smirked and reached for a passing butler’s plate full of various fruity cocktails.



”You both pick but if you really like me you should leave the purple one for me.”

Once they made their choices he kindly asked another manservant to take care of the empty tray. Holding his drink, Farim took a gentle sip and nodded approvingly.

”So that was quite the development, huh? Your sister has been in town a few days and bam! New man in her life. I know the feeling. Except with the obvious that I found a woman and not a man.” Farim knew Munir would have that joke wound up and ready to spring, so he shot it down quickly.

”How have you two been getting along? Glad to see you out and parousing the uhm…not so local ladies.” He had seen him across the room with a rather wonderful looking woman whose name he did not know.

”And Aslam. Has the capital lived to your expectations? I find it rather cheerful here. Lots of greenery and fun things to try. They hold carnivals here! You should go to one sometime.” He spoke with excitement thinking about the faire he had gone to not too soon after his initial arrival.

[SilverSpring]

Time: Night
Location: Ballroom
Attire:imgur.com/TBp3fyc | Magic ring on pointer finger
Interactions: Kira @potter

^{_{___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________}}

Violet gestured her head, allowing the women to occupy the other empty seat at the table as she too sat down. Her fingers held her wine glass gently between her fingers as she tapped the glass lightly.

“Is there something wrong? You look a little upset, and I’m here for you if you need it. Between that and your beauty, I wanted to come check on you. After all, this should be a fun event, yes?”

A smile crept on Violet's lips as she looked over to the women. ”Nothing is wrong, I am just enjoying my glass of wine and the music. You’re quite forward with the compliments but thank you. Some people just enjoy events differently than others, I enjoy them with a drink in hand. “

Her eyes glanced down at the tray of sweets before taking a sip of her wine.

“Although... Balls can be a drag, too, right? they don't have to be though! I guess it depends on how extroverted you are. I feel a little out of sorts here. Maybe we can watch people together.” Kira grinned playfully, gesturing to the crowd. “Totally up to you though! I am fine either way.”

”You are more than welcome to sit here, I do not mind. Though I don’t believe I've seen you around before or even really heard your name. Wouldn’t a ball be more fun if you found a dance partner to enjoy the event with? she looked towards the crowd gesturing outwards ”Who out of this crowd draws your eye? she asked curiously.

[Chrys]

Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Interactions: @HylianRose Nora
Mentions:@princess Count Emil, @Potter Elena and @Remram Magnus

Looking between Lady Elena and the mystery man who had blocked off the Count's path to her and Lady Nora, Amira was lost in her confusion. She has no idea what was happening, and what had made so many people suddenly appear to protect Nora from the older man. Than of course, there was the floral bouquet in her arms which brought up even more questions.

Ending in it all being too easy for Nora to convince Amira to leave the situation with the promise of telling her about her mysterious secret admirer.

"You know who Magnus is?" She asked, eyes sparkling as she followed the other ladies lead with eager excitement.

"What is he like? Is he kind? Handsome? How do you know him? How do you think he knows of me? Woul - would you point him out to me?"

[Lunarlord34]

Freyja Durmand

Location: The Grand ballroom
Date/Time: Ignis 10, Evening
Interactions/mentions: @HylianRose Nikolai; @Redking0380 Fareed

Ball fit

...Someone was watching her.

While she wasn't quite as perceptive in that regard as Stratya, growing up alongside the knight captain meant she had picked up a thing or two along the way. The ability to pick up others gazes being one of said skills, her eyes scanning the ballroom till she met Nikolai's gaze. Almost immediately, her iris's narrowed to slits as she tried to assess why this man was staring at her so intently, but couldn't quite from this distance. At their eyes meeting though, the man seemed to notice and winked at her. The action, accompanied by an annoying little smile, rubbed Freyja the wrong way.

Granted, it wouldn't take much to earn her annoyance right now considering her mood, but something about him seemed to especially annoy her so. He was doubtlessly an annoying and infuriating man. She couldn't quite put her finger on why she knew, she just...did. Some people just had a certain vibe to them, and this man had a vibe just...pissed her off. Enough in fact, that she made her way into the crowd, disappearing from his view briefly if he looked back that way, not that he probably did as he spoke to Fareed. It didn't take long for her to reappear, this time in front of him as she tapped her cane on the ground, just in case she had to get his attention.

Why did she have this cane again? Oh right, something about it suited the outfit? Bah, fashion was beyond her.

"Did your parents never teach you its rude to stare at people? Or is there something on my face? Please do explain yourself, I would love to hear it." She took a moment to assess the man now that she was closer. Judging by his physique, he was probably a knight of sorts. Not one from Caesonia though, and from what she knew of Alidasht he didn't match the appearance she would expect. That left Varian, unless her first assumption had been wrong, but she was pretty confident he didnt match the vibe from a Caesonian knight. For Nikolai's part, he towered over this woman currently glowering up at him by about a whole foot, yet she didn't seem fazed in the slightest. While she seemed annoyed with him, which she technically was, little did he know thats just how she normally looked at people.

Turning to his companion, she really had to crane her neck up to look at this man proper. Ah, now he was from Alidasht. They had a rather different appearance to the other kingdoms, and she didn't mean that in a bad way. She nodded at the man before speaking again.

"Though before you declare me rude in return, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Freyja." She paused for a moment, remembering that she believed the correct way to do this was a curtsy? How would she know, she didn't do this fancy parties or noble etiquette. It was mostly pointless hogwash to her, but suppose she had better play by their rules. So she would do one of the worst attempts at a curtsy either of these two gentlemen had probably ever seen before in their lives. It was dripping with sarcasm and reluctance, insultingly so. Not that she had intended it to be that way... "I don't suppose you've seen Strat-Captain Durmand around have you? I've been trying to locate her, but there's just...so many people, its rather overwhelming..."

She would give anything to not be here at all right now. She would even take studying over this, which while she didnt mind doing, you could only do so much before getting bored. But at least if she was with Stratya, she would feel safe here if nothing else. She knew she had been told she couldn't just keep clinging to Stratya's side like she had growing up, but she felt this was different. She felt like she was in a den of vipers, no doubt whispers amongst some just from the fact she had approached these two. Not that she knew either of their reputations; hell, she barely even knew what the king looked like. She didn't care to either, beside the point. She didn't trust anyone here, and she was figuring it was already a gamble asking these two gentlemen for assistance, but they seemed 'harmless' for the most part. Though she still held the urge to slap Nikolai, for reasons that she couldn't quite understand.

[Potter]

Time: Evening
Location: Danrose Castle
Interactions: @princess Charlotte @Oso Cassius
Mentions:

---

[color=lightgray]The more that Charlotte spoke, the more Olivia’s suspicions grew. As she spoke, Olivia examined her body language closer. This was clearly a spell–was it the fearless one? Lottie seemed to ignore the repercussions of her actions and was far more bolder than she had seen. Thai was a far cry from the girl with ribbons and soft and unrevealing dresses. Had she stolen one of her own books? Liv frowned, though she didn’t interrupt her friend.

The story she explained was downright outrageous–Olivia knew Lottie had not gone to throw herself off the balcony. Liv also knew that was her first time meeting Lottie from afar and knowing that Calbert had told her something horrible. As her mind replayed that night in her mind’s eye, Liv swallowed hard. That night had changed her life in a split second–she wondered if she hadn’t gone to the ball, where would she be now, starving and hiding in an alleyway? The smile that Lottie provided her was not met with her own. Her gaze could’ve killed had she seen Calbert, or burned holes into him.

Still, Olivia’s stomach churned, and bile rose in her throat. Not only did Calbert’s dad spew shit, there was even more shit regarding Lorenzo. She could not imagine having scandals and rumors written about her on a daily basis. Sympathy rose deep inside of her, and she took a deep breath. Regardless of her magic use, the news was horrible.

”Oh Charlie, I am so sorry.” Liv whispered and scooted her chair forward in order to pull her into a fierce hug she didn’t let go. Olivia owed Lottie her life and she was not going to forget it. Liv ensured warmth was forced into the hug. She let go once Lottie spotted a server and allowed them time to have their exchange. Liv bit her lip as she studied her more and turned to Cassius with a split second decision.

Olivia pulled her hair around her face to block anyone from reading her lips. She moved so close to him so that they were nearly touching for a brief second. Her skin crawled at their proximity. Not that he was disgusting, but this was Lottie's beau, and she felt painfully awkward because she barely knew him; however he had helped save her life.

”It’s a fearless spell,” she whispered to him. ”The after effects include overwhelming anxiety and fear, and sometimes cause panic attacks or hallucinations. Even the smallest of things can provoke fear–she’s going to need us.”

Olivia moved away, because being this close to him made her uncomfortable. The clock was ticking on the time left on the spell and the fall out would be rough. Olivia decided this was her time to guard her and protect her in the same way she had when she had needed shelter. She turned to her and smiled.

”We will have fun and enjoy our evening.” She pulled the food and wine over with a wide smile, including her own platters. ”I don’t know what the fuck this is but I’m going to try it.” She grinned at Lottie and Cassius with mischief in her eyes. ”We could play a drinking game, gossip, dance, chat about random bullshit, or maybe all the above? Any pranks we can pull on people?"

[HylianRose]

ʟ ᴜ ᴄ ɪ ᴀ ɴ ᴄ ᴀ ᴍ ɪ ʟ ɪ ᴀ
ʟ ᴜ ᴄ ɪ ᴀ ɴ ᴄ ᴀ ᴍ ɪ ʟ ɪ ᴀ

Time: Evening
Location: Grand Ballroom
Attire: Lucian's Outfit
Interactions: @Lava Alckon Drake, @tae Mina
Mentions: @Oso Ambrose, @CitrusArms Stratya, @remram Nolan, @princess Marina

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Lucian watched Ambrose offer Captain Durmand his hand, and for the second time that evening, he saw something in the knight that did not look like obligation. It was subtle. Most people would have missed it entirely. But Lucian had known Ambrose too long not to notice the slight softening around his eyes, the careful steadiness in his posture that only ever appeared when something truly mattered to him.

And strangely enough, that realization eased something ugly inside Lucian’s chest.

Not enough to silence it completely. The ache remained, stubborn and familiar, like an old scar that weather could still aggravate. But seeing Ambrose look at someone without grief hanging between them felt… right. Perhaps even deserved. It made him feel more at ease, at least for a brief moment.

His gaze lingered on the pair for only a moment longer before Mina’s voice drew him back.

“The golden roses were a late addition.”

Lucian looked down at her then, fully this time. Taking his time in admiring the dress and the roses that adorned it.

Gods.

It was like every thought about backing off for Ambroses’ sake flew out the window. Every thought of allowing anyone else to call her theirs vanished like smoke. Like he hadn’t just been torn by the fact that there was seemingly something between the two. Something that he could never understand.

Up close, the gold embroidery caught the candlelight beautifully, winding across the dark fabric like living vines. Varian’s rose. His rose. Not loudly displayed like court propaganda, but woven carefully into the gown as though it belonged there naturally. As though she belonged there naturally.

And she did.

Far more than he did, some days.

“I thought... perhaps the Rose of Varian should look the part tonight, even in a garden like this.”

Something warm and painful twisted his chest at once.

Lucian’s eyes flickered briefly to the roses again before returning to her face. There was something dangerously soft threatening to surface in his expression, and he quickly hid it behind the easier shield of humor.

“I noticed,” he admitted quietly. “Though I fear you may have doomed every tailor in Varian. The court ladies will start embroidering flowers onto everything by next week.”

His mouth curved faintly.

“Half of them poorly.” He added quietly, only loud enough for her to hear.

Then, Mina looked between them both, graceful as ever. Lucian couldn’t stop looking at her, blue eyes locked onto her beauty.

"You both look remarkably composed for men surrounded by so much chaos," she remarked, her gaze lingering a second longer on Lucian’s auburn hair before including Drake in her focus. "Lord Drake, Prince Lucian... are you truly as calm as you appear, or are we all just giving very convincing performances tonight?"

”Composed?” Lucian started, stifling a small laugh with his hand. ”I just watched Lord Drake’s brother nearly pass away while my sister dragged him to the dance floor.”

Despite everything, Lucian still somehow found a way to put a smile on his face. Maybe it was because of her proximity to him now?

”Although, you seem far too composed yourself considering Marina just announced a slumber party in front of half the nobility in Caesonia.” He added with a small smile. Yes… She was certainly having an effect on him.

Lucian turned to Drake and then back to Mina, something very clearly on his mind.

”May I be so bold as to request a dance from our fair Varian Rose?” Lucian asked, holding his hand out for Mina.

He leaned in to whisper in her ear. ”I’ve been waiting all night to say that...”