FunnyGuy

Neo Genesis: Chronicles of Eberron

Miris

F L A S H B A C K

Race: Changeling
Location: Rekkenmark, Karrnath

“How much? How much? How much?” The young pale-skinned Changeling girl asked in desperation as she emptied a sack in a dark dank alleyway. The contents of the bag were random at best— anything she could get her hands on without being seen… anything that might fill the sack until she could no longer fill it or carry it without drawing suspicion.

It had been weeks since she tucked away something of value, and this hardship opened up her peculiar eyes to the difficulties of thievery. Sure, she had an edge in taking up the form of whomever she liked, but the problem lay in knowing what type of person was fitting in the setting she wished to take from. Then there was knowing what was deemed valuable.

The fence of this city was a picky bastard in her eyes, but truly, the Half Elf simply had experience on his side that she did not. Still, she was young, and only viewed the sly man as another obstacle keeping her from making it big. That's all she wanted. That’s all that anyone wanted, right? Enough coin for a lifetime. Enough for one to forsake the Traveler’s blessing and still hold their head up high.

A sigh escaped her as her hands sorted through the items, which consisted of old, unused inkwells, brass candleholders, loose gold coins, kitchenware, a wax seal stamp, and pieces of items that weren't worth much without their other parts.

“Ugh! Maybe I need a bigger sack.” She scowled at the thing as if it were the reason she was barely making it by. But it'll set me back… I'll do it next time. Next time I’ll buy a big ol’ sack or a bag. The thought was hopeful, yet she grimaced as the reality of it weighed on her. If she gathered a bounty like this next time, she'd just give the same reasoning. She knew it in her heart but refused to let the thought surface.

I could have remained with my mother… I could have been a normal Karrnathi girl.

Tears threatened to escape her, but she fought against them. Crying meant defeat… right? The tears that might have rolled down her cheeks would be the true sign of her inability. I won't lose. I can't. I chose and… I chose this

As tiny and thin as Miris was, she held a will as thick as a stone wall. The same walls that surrounded this very city. To her, depending on fewer people meant you were stronger for it, so since she had no one, she felt she was the strongest person she'd known… at least, she felt she had to be.

She collected all her stolen goods, returning them to the sack from once they came before she focused on her ability to shift her appearance to that of a human girl.

Long braided blonde hair, blue eyes, and rosy red cheeks. Features she stole from a young girl her age, she found pretty… a young girl her age, she found innocent. With a step to a walk to a skip, she traveled along merrily, thinking about how she could further fill her sack as she felt she could at least cram another item or two. She just needed the right mark. Someone who'd she had gained the trust of. Someone to betray.

One person came to mind, and he always did when Miris wanted to fill her sack a tad bit more. He was kinder than anyone she had met, so it always hurt to take from him. He always offered food and conversation free of charge, and he didn't mind her true form. Perhaps that's why it was painful to steal from him. Perhaps stealing from him is why she couldn't find it in her heart to consider him a friend. Friends shouldn't steal from friends… but I think he knows… I think he's worried about me, and so he lets me… No! No! He's just a foolish old man. An easy mark. A gullible foolish old man.

Miris skipped through Rekkenmark, free as anyone with her appearance might be, up until she reached a quiet stoney workshop with twin iron doors that flaunted the craftsmanship of the one who forged them, engraved with a war between two armies either no one remembered or thought could exist.

Using one of the looped handles she knocked on the door with her free hand while holding her sack over her opposite shoulder.

CLING! CLANG!

The looped handles sounded before Miris waited patiently while looking at the engraving on the doors. Just looking and wondering if that war was true occupied her until she heard the sounds of metal sliding on the other side of the door. Taking a step back, Miris allowed the twin door to open unimpeded, and for the man behind it to greet her.

“Oh, Miris. Wonderful to see you here this- hmm… Is it afternoon already?”

“Yes, Wendel. It's almost evening.” Miris chuckled while shyly covering her mouth. “Working hard today?” She asked while he stroked his beard with an inquisitive look upon his face.

“No, I’d say I was hardly working. Took two naps so I'm still only halfway done with the training weapons for the academy.” Wendel admitted.

“Seems good to me. Two naps and halfway finished… I don't think I could do that.” Miris shook her head with a grin

“Of course you can! I'm old and rusty and tired and… sometimes I would just rather have good company. And speaking of which, come in… and drop the disguise, Miris. You being a Changeling is always fine with me.” Wendel smiled like he always did, with generosity and without a hint of judgment. And though Miris smiled at his words, she still waited until the iron doors shut behind her before she reverted to her true self. She trusted Wendel more than anyone, but she was still cynical enough to know that many people despised the sight of Changelings.

The two walked forth, into the workshop. One entertaining company. The other exploiting the innocence of such.

✨Beyond The Veil✨

Sean & Elodie

Flashback: Late Friday Night

Mentions: “Lucky Lu” Lucian, “Don't Call, Just Text” Vex, and “That Bitch” Sicily

---

Elodie poured a small amount of the liquor into her coffee before she pushed to her feet with a quiet groan, muttering something colorful under her breath as she shuffled back behind the counter. Moments later, she returned with a couple of little bottles in one hand and her coffee in the other. She slid the meds across the table toward Sean and sank carefully back into her seat. He eyed the meds before slipping his issued phone into his pocket and reaching for them.

“Only the over-the-counter miracle drugs, aka ibuprofen and acetaminophen, sorry. But they do pair nicely with caffeine.” She took a sip and winced, though whether it was from the burn or her ribs was unclear.

“It’ll do.” For Sean, it was far better than toughing through this. Besides, he was sure the pain would only get worse over the next few hours.

Elodie met his gaze, brow raised faintly. “I’ll take your half-assed promise not to get more hurt tonight. And I promise not to fast. I want this arm healed as fast as possible. I kinda need both of them to make heart foam in lattes.”

There was a trace of a smile, but it faded quickly.

“And no, I don’t want this to be normal either because getting punched SUCKS… but you’re not always going to be there to protect me, and I don’t expect you to be. What if a different warden walks in one day? One who doesn’t ask questions before drawing a weapon?”

Her voice dropped lower, steadier. “So yes. I want to learn how to use a pistol. And if Sicily’s willing to teach me how to move like a vampire instead of some baby deer on black ice, I’ll take that too. I can pay her, or at the very least, she’ll have unlimited drinks and pastries. All I'm looking for is to buy myself time to try and get away if things go south.”

She took another sip of her spiked coffee, then gave Sean a sly look over the rim of her mug. “Unless you’d prefer I stay helpless and clumsy and totally dependent on you for everything. I could faint dramatically next time if it helps.”

Her grin widened as she added, “Maybe even throw in a damsel-in-distress gasp and call you ‘sir’.”

An amused smirk spread across Sean’s face as he blindly scrolled his contacts for “Blondie.” Even in this state, Elodie could still make things seem light, as if the two just had dinner, a movie, and were capping off the night with something easy.

“You’d like being that, wouldn't you?” He said with a gruff chuckle, throwing her words back at her.

After his little verbal counterattack, Sean’s eyes drifted down to his phone so he could work his magic in scheduling a meeting between irksome vampires in his life. “If Sicily declines, I'll at least cover a little self defense with you…” He sent the message to Sicily simply reading.

Text

Setting his phone down, he got to medicating himself and washing the pills down with his favorite caffeinated beverage brewed by his favorite barista.

Elodie’s grin had curved wider at his jab, and she tipped her mug toward him in mock surrender. “Mm, maybe a little. But only because you wear the grumpy knight act so well. It’s very inspiring for a fainting damsel, you know.”

She took another sip, the rim of the mug hiding her smile for a heartbeat before she lowered it again. This time her eyes softened, hazel warm with something that lingered past the joke. “But seriously… thank you. For not treating me like I’m fragile glass. For not… walking away after tonight.”

“Hm?” He let out mid sip.

Her fingers traced the edge of the coffee cup, restless but steady. “I don’t want to need anyone to save me. But if I’m going to have someone in my corner, I’m glad it’s you.” She fell silent for a few moments, glancing out the windows of the café to the street shrouded by the night. A few people were walking past, laughing and having a grand time. “So, tell me, what is this Sicily woman like?” She asked as she turned back to look at Sean.

The low yet audible grumble from him was quite hard to ignore in response to her question. Add the shaking of his head as he set his coffee down, it was guaranteed nothing good would follow.

“You ever had a dog that ate the food off the table the moment you walked out of the room? She's kinda like that.” He nodded to himself. “To me, anyway. She might be nicer to you once she sniffs out you're too sweet of a person to mess with…” He took a deep breath as his conscience wouldn't allow him to say just that. “High energy, good at killing vampires, poor music taste, picks fights, makes others foot the bill… as if I took her out on a date or something! She even used that as an excuse once! I don't take people out on dates! Plus she never fucking listens!” He had counted the first five things on his fingers but the last one sent him on a short rants.

“But guess what?!” He shrugged dramatically. “Shit! Fuck ..” He cursed as he moved a little too much for his body’s liking. Elodie’s grin faltered when he cursed, the sound cutting through his rant like a sharp note.

“Hey, easy,” she murmured, setting her mug down as if she might actually lunge across the table and make him sit still.

“You’re supposed to be drinking coffee, not auditioning for a pain tolerance competition.” Sean could only sigh in response, but Elodie’s tone softened with concern threading through the bit of teasing. “Keep moving like that and I will make you sit still. Don’t tempt me to start handing out orders.”

Make me? Orders? He could have grumbled but he knew she was right, and the pain wasn't doing him any favors in being able to convincingly argue back. Once he was fully settled, Elodie leaned back again, studying him over the rim of her cup.

“Anyway… Sicily. The reason why I can put up with all her bullshit is because she is really, really good at killing vampires… and she has a good sense of humor but don't ever tell her I said that.”

“So, Sicily sounds… intense,” she mused. “And like someone who keeps you on your toes. Maybe even someone who makes sure you don’t get too comfortable.”

“Something like that.” Sean muttered.

Her eyes glimmered with amusement. “I can see why you’d both drive each other crazy.”

Then the grin returned, sly and warm all at once. “However, you don’t take people out on dates?” she teased, tilting her head. “Then what would you call tonight? A post-battle performance review? Because if so, I’m definitely charging for emotional labor and hazard pay.”

Then she hesitated a beat, debating on actually saying her next words. “Unless, of course…” her voice dipped, lighter but laced with mischief and a hint of shyness all while being quite quiet, “you’re making an exception.”

Sean briefly raised an eyebrow, not having put any thought into this being a date. His eyes peered upward as he played off trying to find a legitimate answer.

“Hmmm… Not a date.” His eyes met hers accompanied with a slight smirk. “It doesn't check all of the blocks. The coffee is on the house… at least, I believe it is… I'm in my work clothes… and the most egregious missing piece: No steak.” Sean sighed regrettably. “But… I'll make an exception one of these days.” He shrugged, and then winced in pain. “When I don't feel like I got hit by my own truck… It should be nice, y’know.” His expression became serious with the last part. As much as he thought the idea was nice and even cute, he was sure his life in Halcyon would do its damnedest to prevent it.

Elodie smiled softly even as she caught his serious expression. She watched him for a moment. “Sounds like whoever earns that kind of night with you will be pretty lucky. I envy her…”

Her smile lingered for a beat too long before she caught herself and looked down, tucking a curl behind her ear as though that might hide the faint warmth blooming on her cheeks. “I was only joking about this being a date, you know,” she said lightly, then added under her breath, “Mostly.”

She tilted her head then, considering what her list would be as her thumb traced the curve of her mug. “I suppose mine would be simpler,” she said at last, voice soft but thoughtful. “Warm light, something sweet to drink, a little music playing too softly to drown out the conversation. Maybe a walk afterward, somewhere quiet. Or even getting caught in the rain and forcing a little adventure.”

Her smile lingered, faint and wistful. “I think it’s less about where you go and more about who you’re with. Someone who notices the small things. Someone who asks if you’re cold, who listens even when you ramble, who makes you feel like you can breathe again.”

Her gaze drifted toward the window again, where the streetlamps blurred against the misty night. “Maybe even someone who doesn’t mind getting a little lost with you. Finding a café that feels like it was waiting just for you. Laughing until the world feels a little lighter.”

She caught herself then, blinking as though surprised at her own words, and laughed quietly. “Huh. Guess my list’s longer than I thought.” Her lips curved into a soft grin as she lifted her mug again. “Maybe that’s why I never go on many dates.”

“Really? I figured you would’ve had the chance to go on plenty.” Sean commented genuinely as he reached for his mug. “No offense and I honestly don't even think this could ever be offensive but you're hot as fuck.” He whispered while leaning in as if what he said was some well kept secret. “Like… just hear me out. You got the looks, you're not a total bitch, got your own business, YOU- you bake. Do you know how many chicks can bake nowadays? Those cinnamon rolls are fucking godly. Then you throw in the vampire stuff and it just gives some extra sexy points just ‘cause…” He admitted openly but slowly the gears began to turn in his head.

“I think I know what the problem is… You're one of those crazy clingy girls that likes to peg… jeez Elodie.” Sean shook his head and sipped his coffee but wound up breaking into a chuckle. “On another note, we went on a date based on your standards at the Velvet Bite. It checked… most of your blocks I think.” He gave her a playful wink.

For a moment, Elodie forgot how to breathe. The words “hot as fuck” rolled off his tongue so easily she almost wondered if she’d imagined them, but then came the “you bake” and “the vampire stuff is sexy”, and her brain just… short-circuited. She could feel the heat bloom in her chest, crawling up her neck until she was certain she’d melt right into her chair. Her pulse shouldn’t even race anymore, but she certainly felt like it was. He leaned in, speaking so plainly, and her stomach did an undignified little flip. She had to look away for a second, teeth catching her lower lip to keep from smiling too wide.

“Well,” she said at last, laughter soft and a little shaky, “that’s one way to flatter a girl. You say things like that so easily, don’t you? I’m not used to hearing them without someone laughing after.”

She took a sip to buy herself a second of composure, then sighed, eyes dropping to the swirl of cream in her mug.
“For the record, my last boyfriend was back in high school. Two years, and it ended... badly, to say the least. Since then?” She gave a small shrug. “Most people either think I’m too quiet, too weird, or too... sweet. Like I’m made of sugar and might dissolve if they touch me.”

Her lips twitched then, and she peeked up at him through her lashes, that teasing spark returning. “But maybe you’re right. Maybe it’s the pegging thing.” And Sean actually nodded along… seriously nodded along.

She tried, she really did, but she broke almost immediately and covered her face as laughter spilled out of her, low and melodic. “Nope, nope, can’t even say that with a straight face. Sorry.”

Sean chuckled but some part of him was relieved. So the crazy clingy thing is probably what's true.

Once she calmed enough to breathe again, her grin softened, a flicker of sincerity beneath the mirth. “But hey... if the Velvet Bite could count as a date, guess that makes me one hell of a lucky girl. I bet Sicily would be jealous.”

“You can do better than that. Tell her we're engaged and you're expecting. Then again, she'd probably feel bad for you and throw in your lessons for free… Hm, that might actually be a good idea.” A sly smile played on his face. “We’d have to get you a ring to sell the whole thing but I think it'd work.”

Elodie blinked at him, her brain apparently deciding this was the perfect time to blue-screen. “I– wait– you– engaged?” She stammered, words tripping over each other uselessly. “You can’t j-just say things like that!” Her laugh broke through, light but unmistakably nervous as her hands flew up to cover her face, wincing as she forgot about her broken arm. Surely he wasn’t serious… or was he? No…no, of course not. This had to be him teasing. I should tease back. Breathe, Elodie.

“Okay,” she finally managed, lowering her hands as a grin crept in despite the warmth flooding her cheeks. “So a moody Lycan boy, a brawl, coffee, and I'm suddenly fake wife material? Careful, Sean. Keep talking like that and people will start to think you're catching feelings. Or is this your subtle way of asking for another date?”

She picked up her mug again, still grinning though her nerves hadn’t quite settled, evident in the tremble of her cup. “Fine. You find the ring, I’ll draft the invitations…but I’m calling dibs on the cake design. If we’re faking this, it’s at least gonna be cute.”

“Deal! Free combat training, here we come. I'll find something over the weekend.” Sean didn't even flinch before he downed the rest of his coffee. Perhaps Vex did more than a number on him.

For a moment, Elodie could only stare, the words settling in slower than they should have. He was… serious. Of course he was. That was Sean–decisive, straightforward, completely unaware of how his words made her stomach do somersaults.

She forced herself to smile, light and easy, even as something stupidly tender tugged at her chest. It’s fake, she reminded herself. No real commitment, no meaning, just a cover story. So why did the thought sting?

“Guess that’s settled, then,” she said, lifting her mug in mock toast, her grin just a little too soft to sell the joke. “To free combat lessons and totally fake engagements.”

And yet, as she watched him over the rim of her cup, she couldn’t shake the thought–fake or not, she was already in trouble.

Clink

Neo Genesis: Chronicles of Eberron

Miris

Race: Changeling
Class: Part-Time Fighter
Location: Airship ➡️ Outside of the Shanty Town
Interactions: Phia @princess, Menzai @samreaper, Captain Beckett @Oso, Arya (well not really) @Potter
Mentions: Meiyu, Captain Cidralis, Phia

Equipment:

Equipment

⋆ Lots of Clothes
⋆ Arming sword
⋆ Battle-axe
⋆ Mace
⋆ Daggers
⋆ Bow & Arrows
⋆ Shortsword
⋆ Leather Armor
⋆ Half-plate Armor
⋆ Hide Armor
⋆ Toolkit
⋆ Camping Equipment
⋆ Locked chest filled with old trinkets that ARE NOT FOR SALE
⋆ Magnifying glass
⋆ Diary
⋆ Sketchbook
⋆ Pencils
⋆ Dried and Cured Meats
⋆ Nuts
⋆ Second Locked Chest with self-care products
⋆ Bag of holding

Attire: beige trousers, brown tunic, and worn brown boots
Gold Balance: 3 (on hand)
Injuries: None
Current Persona: Minerva

---

Minerva had been hoping for positive feedback from Captain Beckett, so when he blew a kiss at her and Phia, she couldn't help but beam with delight. Snatching at the air, she played along with the pirate, grabbing ahold of his blown kiss and pressing it against her chest.

“Dibs.” She said while side-eyeing Phia and adding a new strapping man to her roster of potentials. When returning her eyes forward, she listened intently to what her new piece of eye candy had to say to the crowd.

Hearing him make his selection had caused her eyes to dart over to Menzai, immediately. The two of them had not only been named first, but generalized and grouped together as the “two shifters.” And oh that look in Menzai’s eyes told her all she needed to know. You dirty mutt, you. You added him to your roster as well! Minerva returned the deathly glare his way, fully understanding that both she and Menzai were competitors in their desires. Gritting her teeth in frustration, she nearly shouted a threat his way, but something else far more concerning grabbed her attention.

In all honesty, it wasn’t more concerning, but she just felt it should be.

The words “pretty little Tiefling” were impossible to ignore, putting Arya in Minerva's sight. “He picked her?” Minerva thought aloud, a look of confusion crossing her expression. Can't compete with that… Just look at her. And just like that, she gave up her pursuit of the pirate captain… but she'd keep the pirate captain on her roster in the event things changed. Sudden accidents did happen, after all. The pretty little Tiefling could suddenly slip on a wet rock, tumble down a jagged cliffside, plunge into unbelievably deep waters, and then the fish could eat her… slowly. That would definitely change things, of course, and Minerva calmly nodded to herself at the potential possibility.

Then came the nice show with the handkerchief, which only helped confirm Minerva's suspicions of how much control the three envoys knew they held. Despite her odd way of going about things, Minerva intentionally and unintentionally used it as a means to place herself in the best position for survival… and sometimes the survival of others. She considered meeting the Pirate Prince as the best option available in learning about where the ship had landed in the Principalities and about their current captors. Negotiations were never an option, so the best thing Minerva could manage was to simply the deadliest people tagged along with her while taking any unneeded attention off the already wounded Captain Cidralis. Phia of the Double-Wave was some kind of psychopath, and she very well knew Menzai was capable despite his injuries due to the hairstyle he sported along with what Wendel wrote about him in the journal. Having the Warforged and Tiefling were a plus, but she did wish she could get that Yuan Ti temptress to come since her kind was all about murdering and eating humanoids for the sake of whatever weird snake shit they believed in.

She probably has another angle. That or she happens to be deathly allergic to peaches, and I successfully killed her. Ha! I hope so, because THAT would be worth putting in the journal. She thought casually as her wrists were bound behind her with rope.

“A little tighter. My wrists are- ooh, that's perfect!” Minerva was quite impressed, complying to the entire ordeal as if she was going on a field trip.

---

Along the way to the unknown destination, Minerva positioned herself beside Arya of all people for only two reasons. TWO REASONS! The first was to ensure she would bear witness to the possibility of the wet rock scenario. It was far from likely, but she wouldn't be able to live down missing the moment if it occurred. The second reason was simply to make conversation with someone she hadn't spoken to yet.

“Hey birdy, my name is Peaches Minerva, and I'm going to be… I'm going to be… hmm… I'm gonna talk to ya.” Minerva directed to Stella, the someone she wanted to have a conversation with. “I think you and I have plenty in common. Sharp eyes, sexy yet deadly aura.” She bounced her eyebrows suggestively. “I bet you have the other birds breaking their necks to look at those feathers of yours. And those talons! Sharp! Anyway, have you ever been to the Principalities?” And that's how it started… and didn't seem to end. Despite Stella never being able to answer her, Minerva continued to converse solely with the eagle.

By the time the group started to slow as they reached the sight of their destination, Minerva was still going.

“So… chicken. I love eating chicken, so is that a problem for you since we're best friends now? I mean chickens are birds and you're a bird… hmm, but you probably eat chickens too, right? Yeah! They're good right? White meat or dark meat? I personally enjoy dark meat. It's the snobby types that like the white meat more. It's healthier, sure, but it doesn't pack the same flavor. You know what I mean? Yeah, so what's your… Oh! Look, birdy, I think we made it!” Minerva pointed at the settlement hugging the shore with a pleasant smile on her sweat beaded face. She took in the view, wide-eyed and curious of what the shantytown had in store for them. It was a short gander, especially since Captain Beckett addressed the group.

“There are some rules we should discuss before the next phase of our fun little adventure…but first, I’m curious, any questions you might have had before or things you wish to know now…here’s your chance. I’ll be as true as a priest, but just this once.”

“Ooh! Ooh! Um…” Minerva hadn't anticipated being able to ask Captain Beckett a question… so Menzai beat her to the punch. She glared at Menzai yet again. Only now did she realize why he still glared at her so menacingly during the trek. It was obvious! Just like her, the handsome pirate remained on his roster!

“But, no, I suppose my curiosity is towards this lord prince of yours. What grand ambition does he hold to sway so many to his hidden kingdom?”

“Borrrring.” Minerva commented with an eye-roll. “My turn! What's your type, Captain Beckett?” Minerva winked. She knew this question would settle everything. While Menzai tried to use his nonchalantness to increase his level of attractiveness, Minerva pushed past him with a direct approach. “Remember. ‘True as a priest.’” Minerva didn't even think about how she was now obviously looking at Menzai from the corner of her eye with far too much intensity for the current situation.

Take that Menzai! Take! That! Eat it! Stomach it! Digest it, you mutt! I'll be the winner!

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Mr. Deacon}

Time: Afternoon
Location: Deacon Residence
Attire: Classic Black Tux
Interaction: Charlotte
Mention:

---

Charlotte, Eri, Violet, Mina, Marek, Calbert

When one left their carriage and was set upon their home, what did they feel? Doubt? Uncertainty? Guilt? Fear?

The relationship between Alexander and Lianna had experienced some tension, but not quite like this. The meeting with Violet, as private as it may have seemed, had been observed by the ever-watchful wife of Alexander Deacon. And despite their blood bond’s ability to discern her emotions, Alexander only felt absence, even now. Hatred. Contempt. Jealousy. Envy. Anguish. Heartbreak. Any of those feelings would have been easier than this.

The croaking of a raven announced his arrival, and the slight sting of the sunlight offered more comfort than what he predicted awaited him inside. Eri didn’t need to any words, as she was sure Lianna would have plenty to say. She could potentially lick the man’s wounded ego for her own advantage.

Upon entering, Alexander removed and hung up his tuxedo jacket, his expression muted as he was unsure of what to expect as he left the foyer.

“Mr. Deacon. Welcome home.” A man stood firmly beside Lianna, who was comfortably seated by the fireplace with a braille book in her lap. The fireplace matched the ambience, absent of any fire or warmth.

“You may take your leave, but return before dusk. I will be leaving by then.” Alexander still had dinner to attend with Count Damien, and likely the rest of his family.

“Of course, because I will be going to that wretched estate.” Lianna added coldly. “Thank you for your assistance. You were quite respectful for a pawn.” The man shared a look with Alexander, to silently inform him to prepare himself, but Alexander simply waved him away and shook his head.

“Until dusk.”

“Until dusk.” He nodded to the couple before taking his leave, with his shutting of the door signifying the start of their difficult conversation. Alexander took a step forward, but-

“No.’ He stopped in his tracks. “Just… stay right there for now.” Lianna took a breath, and silence took over the room.

“My love, this is-” Lianna cut him off as she smacked an open page of the book, letting free what she had held in for much too long.

“This is what?! Unnecessary?! Pointless?! Silly?” Her voice died down a few octaves. “Alexander. My love… hear me, and hear me well. I have given all I could… All I could, for you, and would have given more if that was required of me.”

“I know.”

“You don’t! You think you do, and perhaps you wish to believe it true, but you don’t know, Alexander!” Her brow furrowed as she tried to keep herself together. “And I don’t-” Despite how she may have felt, she wanted to watch her words. “It’s not your fault for not understanding, but it’s as if you don’t care about us anymore. About my sacrifice.”

“Which we both suffer for, Lianna, together. Every day! Do you think I enjoy this? Being this way? With a fucking ring as the only thing keeping me from being some kind of monster?” Alexander’s words did not appear to hit her as hard as he thought they might. There was a brief quiet, but Lianna nearly scoffed at what he said.

“You can fool those other women, and I may be without sight, but I am not a fool. I see the way you hesitate to put it back on. How you let others remove it from your hand like it means dirt to you. Tell me! How much did those days without it feel? How much did you change without that fucking ring?” Alexander was upon her in a matter of two beats, knelt before her.

“This is no ruse, my love. You know I can’t draw too much attention to it, and sometimes I need to be without it.” His voice was softer than usual, delicate even. “Those days were hellish for me, but I needed to become closer to Charlotte Vikena.”

“And you thought seducing her would work?” She shook her head disaprovingly.

“That is not what that was. Not exactly,” He admitted, with an averted gaze. “I miscalculated with her. I didn’t read her like I should have. I thought she would be easy.’

“Like the other two? One for pleasure and one for love.”

“No. One for pleasure. The other will help me. Help us.”

“Sure. I bet you’re not even looking at me as you say that. I can tell, you know?” Lianna idly traced her fingers across the bumps on the pages of her book, creating a distraction from lashing out at the excuses that just didn’t seem viable to her in this moment. “Mina Blackwood… A tryst I’ve allowed. She gives you what I am no longer able to. Blood and sex, and only that. The girl knows her place and doesn’t dare overstep. I… I can, at the very least, respect that… But what does Violet Damien give you?” The question hung in the air far too long for her liking. “Hm?”

“You can’t drink her blood, and you haven’t jumped at the opportunity to bed her, so what is it? Tried and true courting?”

“Empathy, my love. I- We understand each other. To be cursed is-”

“I am cursed, am I not?!“ She snapped with tears in her eyes. “And even though I will remain this way… this way... I do what I must to ensure you find some form of relief from your affliction. I do not ever think of betraying you.” She felt that she might tear a page away. “Ten years, Alexander. Ten years… We discovered the ring, together… and we will discover the cure, together... This love- Apologies. This empathy you both share is a temporary thing… Don’t!” Alexander had been ready to respond, but stopped with his mouth slightly agape.

“You can say you don’t love her... You can say you do… but I know she was not lying when she confessed to you today.” She shut the book on her lap and handed it to him, who could still barely look her in the face. “You know, I was not surprised to know that your aura was the color it was, but I beg you, my love… I warn you… Sacrificing me for your ambition will be the worst thing you ever do.”

“I would never dream of doing such a thing. You just need to trust me.” He took the book and stood up to place it on the bookshelf. “Violet Damien. Charlotte Vikena. They are both means to my success. Our success. The opportunity to dethrone the King draws closer, and those two women will play their part.” He set the book in its place and turned to her. She didn’t say how she felt, as he felt it course through himself. “He trusts me, Lianna. He will become too comfortable for his own good, and when that time comes, I shall fill his chalice with poison and slit his throat with a blade that only I can wield. Every move I make is for us, and my heart belongs to no other but you. Trust me, and there is nothing we won’t be able to accomplish.”

“I will believe it when I see it.” Alexander drew close to her once more, taking her hands in his as he knelt.

“With my eyes… you shall, my love.” A whispered promise— soft… malleable.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Alexander & Violet

Bread, Wine, and Oil

Time: Afternoon
Location: Charity Event, Sorian Park
Mentions: Prince Callum, Charlotte, Mina, Cassius, Olivia, Kazumin, Count Calbert, King Edin, Duke Lorenzo, Sebastian Blackwood, Stratya, Farim the Dream, Vizier Hafiz, Kira

---

Despite Alexander’s practiced poise, the first bid for 2000 gold pieces formed a crack in his mask of confidence. His sharp eyes honed in on the unfamiliar woman, attempting to discern who she could be, but he was quite sure he had never been acquainted with her before. He began to regain himself just before Olivia surprisingly raised the bid to 2100. For this, he searched her eyes for a motive, but could only identify determination. And what does this little stoat want? He wondered, just as curious about Olivia as he was about the stranger, knowing what came next would be shrouded in mystery.

“2,500 gold pieces!” The stranger called the bid that would win his company, and hopefully quench his curiosity. With the winning bid solidified, the woman was asked to approach Mina with her funds while Alexander remained on the stage.

“It seems these women were just in it to prove me wrong. Again, thank you all for attending! Drinks and food will continue to be served as the surplus item auction continues. This is just the beginning of Drunkard’s Day!” Alexander performed a quick bow, and then he hurried off the stage. His gentle hand found Mina’s shoulder blade, whispering quick words of thanks to her just before he faced the woman who had earned her date with him.

“It’s a pleasure, Miss…” He let the word trail so that she may complete his sentence with her name while he took her hand in his.

Her cheeks flushed a soft pink, betraying both her age and the unexpected thrill of the moment. She placed her wrinkled hand in his, her grip surprisingly firm despite the years.

“Oh, heavens, you may call me Margaret, dear boy,” she said, her voice trembling with delight. “It has been far too long since I’ve had such charming company. And you…my, you’re even more handsome up close than I ever dared hope.”

“Oh, Margaret,” He fawned softly.

A light, breathless laugh escaped her lips, the kind that carried the simple joy of a woman savoring life once more. “I do hope you won’t mind a little chatter from an old woman. And, well… a fine meal shared with such company will certainly make my day.”

“Mind?” His brows knitted as he shook his head. “Heavens no. You have earned this date in the name of charity. I can’t see a world where I deny you of my companionship, given the circumstances.” Alexander made sure to be gentle as he led her away from the stage to an awning further away from the festivities. Beneath its shade was a small circular table draped with a white tablecloth, decorated with a paired sets of wine glasses, tea cups, utensils, and plates. At the center were just two roses set inside a thin vase. An unoccupied space for the two to enjoy with the comforts of being waited on by the hired staff— or so Alexander thought.

Margaret's feet shuffled slowly under her as the silks she adorned herself with fluttered behind her. “Oh, how lovely!” she chimed happily, patting her resting hand on his arm.

“The young woman was quite adamant about wanting to surprise you,” she chuckled to herself, nearly whispering, her words wiping away Alexander’s smile. “She even gifted me these silks and everything.” Margaret stroked the fine silk scarf she wore around her neck, her eyes glancing up at the handsome young man who was trying to follow along with what she was saying. “I couldn’t help myself… seeing romance in the air reminds me of my dear husband. I do love the courting season.” She let out a wishful sigh to the man who was no longer listening to her intently.

As they approached the table, crimson eyes stared back at them. Alexander’s internally shouted question was answered by Violet sitting at the table. He raised an eyebrow, not bothering to hide his confusion. The pair stopped just short of the table with Alexander’s eyes locked on Violet’s.

“Violet Damien.” He said her name with a pleasant smile, but the slight narrowing of his eyes gave him away. “Color me surprised.” He said before looking at Margaret on his arm. “You hid your slyness in your grace. I would hope this woman gives you something for helping to reel me.” Alexander playfully teased the pair.

“Oh, she already has.” She patted the pocket of her dress as the sounds of clinking coins jingled. She let out a breathy chuckle as Violet stood from her chair, offering her own warm smile to the pair. “Well…” The woman's hands clapped together as she looked between Alexander and Violet. “I have some drinks to buy!” She turned around and started walking back towards the festivities.

“Enjoy.” Alexander’s parting word was a gentle touch of motivation.

A smile crossed Violet’s lips as she watched the older woman shuffle away, the faintest satisfaction glimmering in her eyes. Reaching down, she plucked the wine glass that sat across from her chair, filled with an expensive red, and rose with unhurried grace.

Her steps were slow as she crossed the space, her crimson gaze locked on Alexander’s, refusing to waver. When she reached him, she extended the glass, her fingers lingering against the stem, almost coaxing him to take it.

“What was that you said about a Damien not desiring you?” In unison, their lips curved into sharper smiles, with Violet’s tone dripping with amusement.

“Are you sure desire is the word we’d like to use?” He briefly raised an eyebrow with the question as he delicately grabbed the wine glass. He didn’t quite take it from her, almost as if he was waiting for Violet to answer his question, yet before she could, he pulled the glass away. “I consider it a rather strong word, Violet.”

Taking a sip from her own glass, as crimson eyes peered over the edge, the smile still on her lips, “I said what I said.” She held her glass carefully between her fingers. Alexander’s eyes narrowed slightly at her response before she continued. “I thought you might enjoy being surprised for once… or do you prefer when everything goes according to your design?” She smirked as her gaze flicked toward the table, then slid back to him with unhurried intent. “Either way, this was for you.”

“For me?” He asked as he eyed the deep red contents of his glass. He gave nothing away about his disposition, but he also wasn’t running for the hills. “Well, thank you, truly.” A smile formed on his face. “This event holds a special place in my heart… Well, the dates and the surplus goods are just the motivators, but the money raised, which is an even greater sum thanks to you, is my top priority today.” Alexander smoothly walked around Violet to the seat behind her and pulled it out from the table.
“Please,” he offered the seat like any gentleman would. Violet looked at the open seat for a moment as his words registered so formally, as if this were strictly transactional to him. Her playful comment met with a rehearsed sales pitch. Her expression faltered for a moment, but was quickly erased with a smile of her own.

“Thank you,” she said, moving the offered seat as she lowered herself down with ease. She pulled the folded cloth napkin from her plate and rested it on her lap, her hands gently smoothing it against her legs. ”I am happy to have been a part of it then. Hopefully, that money can go to some good use.”

After pushing her seat in slightly, he rounded the table to take his seat.

“Prince Callum willing…When he sobers up, of course,” Alexander commented as he placed his napkin on his lap as well. “Also… I'm sure your actions were more so for this very moment, rather than giving to the needy.” Alexander smirked smugly before taking a sip of wine, watching and waiting for her reply.

“Prince Callum? If you're waiting on him for anything, I imagine it will be some time. The only thing he will be looking at today will likely be the bottom of a glass or bottle.” Violet finished smoothing out the napkin against her lap before reaching for her own glass again.

Violet’s smile deepened, a glimmer of amusement dancing in her crimson eyes as she set her glass down. “You’re not wrong though, but you rarely ever are.” she admitted with a playful shrug, leaning in just slightly. Alexander merely gave a single bounce of his eyebrows, neither confirming or denying the compliment. “My motives weren’t entirely selfless. I wanted this moment with you… wanted to steal a bit of your time for myself.”

“I suppose it could seem a bit… extravagant, paying someone to bid in my stead, just for the chance to have your company. And perhaps foolish, too, if it turns out it’s all one-sided.”

“I beg your pardon,” Crimson eyes met his as Alexander replied almost immediately, defensively even, at her last several eluding words. By themselves, they could mean anything, but Alexander had been trying to read this current situation from the very moment he laid eyes upon her.

Even without either of them speaking on it, Violet's previously hanging question had an answer: He did in fact prefer everything to go according to his design… And what was occurring now, was not what he foresaw, in fact, he found himself proven wrong.

“Share your feelings.” He set his wine glass down and leaned in close with an offered hand. “I won't bite… I promise.”

Her eyes dropped to his hand, outstretched toward her, steady and patient. For a long breath, she didn’t move, only staring as though the gesture itself carried more danger than any blade. Then, slowly, she placed her hand in his.

The warmth of the contact unraveled something inside her chest. Her voice was quieter than she meant it to be, stripped of its usual sharp tones.

“I can lie to anyone else…but not you.” Her voice was soft, but sure. “I see you…Alexander.”

Her thumb brushed lightly against his hand, a small, instinctive gesture.

“I see how you mask yourself for the world.” Her finger traced along the ring on his hand “I see the fire in your eyes when the sparks you create turn into flame.” she continued “You gave me a new life, one that I fought so hard against. You supported me even through the darkest parts of it, helping me each step of the way, and every time I stumbled, you were there to catch me. You gave me the space to make the mistakes I needed to, so I could see the truth. Yet even then, you never judged me. Your words were harsh and your eyes were cold, but all I could see was you. You were always there, even when I refused to see it.”

Her crimson eyes flicked up to look at him. A quiet breath left her, more release than uncertainty.

“At first, my anger was at myself, not you. Then it became understanding…then admiration…then something I can’t fully name, but it consumes me. I strayed out of defiance, yet your voice was in my mind. I couldn’t go on fighting it. For the first time, I didn’t want to fight. I wanted you.”

Her fingers gently traced along the lines of his hand as she continued.

“You are the one I think of when the silence is too loud. The one I search for in every crowded room. The one I trust more than I trust myself. I want to walk beside you, not because someone told me too, but because that is where I belong. And when the world feels heavy, it is your presence that steadies me, your voice that grounds and guides me. Every thought, every glance, every fleeting heartbeat seems to lead me back to you, and I don’t want to go anywhere else.”

Her chest rose and fell with a quiet urgency, as if letting these words out might shatter her entirely.

“Whatever name these feelings deserve…they’re yours. Every piece, every part of me…they are yours.”

Her eyes fell to her hand in his, vulnerable and trembling, as if waiting for him to pull away. But she held on, every second a test of courage, every heartbeat a silent plea for him to stay.

And aligned to her silent wishes, he remained, accepting her vulnerability, truth, and of course, her love. There was no turning or running away from who was right in front of him— right beside him, where he had invited her since the very start. He had no need for a means to read Violet's thoughts when she laid her heart bare before him. A castle without walls, mote, or soldiers. A throne made empty without a ruler.

And it was his to claim.

Violet Damien.

With the ring… Without the ring… she accepted him. Someone like her… someone like himself. So simple, yet so powerful was the essence of mutual understanding— an impossibility for the likes of others. Charlotte Vikena… Mina Blackwood… Roman Ravenwood…… Lianna Deacon. No amount of devotion or vulnerability could accomplish this. This moment between the two accursed.

It is pure irony that this curse was built to make one suffer alone. Who could empathize with a monster made to feed on others? Who could ever overlook the creeping deterioration of another's humanity? For anyone else, the commitment is a slow mutilation of self— clutching close a rose with daggers for thorns while praying blindly for a miracle.

Alexander Deacon. His eyes remained on Violet, even though she couldn't look him in the face. If only she could see it. The pleasure and desire— twins born of both patience and persistence that consummated in the bed called opportunity.

Click

“You and I are not so different. That is why I care.”

^{“Everything I did was to keep you alive. You're welcome.”}

“...but if I had someone who could truly understand this affliction by my side…”

^{“You keep my secrets, and I'll keep yours.”}

“...consider allowing the Black Rose Company to assist in keeping a watchful eye on your daughter,”

“...consider my mentorship of her.”

^{“You and I. No one here could understand us like we do each other. Not a single soul,”}

_{“Can you trust Lord Ravenwood…”}

“Scarlett…”

^{“I’m someone that you can just talk to without feeling judged.”}

“Like when you slapped Violet in the face.”

^{“...walk this path beside me.”}

^{“I desire the best for you,”}

“And I care about you as well.”

All of it came together quite well.

Alexander softly squeezed Violet’s hand to force her eyes to meet his, and once they had– those red orbs he admired so, he said it.

“I’m in love with you, Violet. Every piece and part of what makes you who you are. I’m in love with every bit of it and this love is yours.”

Her breath caught in her chest as she felt her breath still. Her eyes searched his face, his eyes, his expression. She tried to find some crack, …something, but it failed. Her hand squeezed back, matching his as she continued to look at him.

“Alexander...” she said softly as if attempting to find her words “Our curse was written so we would suffer alone. And yet you… You look at me as though I am something worth keeping…” Her grip on his hand loosened slightly as her fingers gently caressed the palm of his hand with slow

Her gaze held his with unflinching intensity in those crimson eyes. With delicate care, her fingers slid along his hand, slipping the ring free of his finger. Not in haste but with a quiet, deliberate motion that left the weight of it resting in her palm. She did not close her hand around it, nor claim it. She held it open, an offering, letting him see that it was still his to take back whenever he wished.

Her lips parted, and for once, there was no hesitation. “I am in love with you, Alexander,” she said, the words sharpened by conviction, softened by something that almost trembled in its vulnerability. “In all the ways that you are and the darkness you wield so easily…”

She lowered her hand slightly, the ring gleaming in her palm, her voice dropping to something that was almost a plea. “Say it again. Without the ring. Without the mask. Say it as you are, just you.”

Say it as I am… Just me.

He couldn't help but wince slightly at the request and the subtle feeling of change within him. Almost on instinct, his eyes left hers for the item he both loathed and treasured. A relic forged for someone like him likely by someone like him desperate to cling to their humanity. It was a stopgap measure against the curse’s emotional deterioration, designed to keep Alexander from losing the identity of the man he once was. While on his finger, it was his bastion against the nightmarish change. While off his finger, it was a tiny heavy shackle that bound him to the man who should no longer exist. Yet despite who he was, he coped with the knowledge that his goals remained static. Was there truly a mask? Was he two men? Three perhaps? When would the stopgap measure reach its limit? Who would be the one to see their dream realized in the end? The man or the monster?

“I love you, Violet.” He said with a slight smile. “Ring or not…” He took the ring back, eyeing it with a hint of contempt before slipping it on. “There is no deceit in my confession to you.” He flexed his fingers, looking upon the relic before his eyes met Violet's once more.

Violet leaned back in her seat, staring at Alexander from across the table with a smile of her own. An attendant finally made his way over with a basket full of fresh bread while refilling their wine glasses with an appropriate amount. Bowing slightly, he left the pair to their privacy again.

“I believe you…” Violet said, smiling as she reached for some bread from the center of the table. “I just wanted to hear you say it again.” She gave him a playful smile.

“And I shall continue to, but please,” He leaned with a serious expression. “I need you to understand there are limits to this. This… relationship is one that would be looked upon quite negatively in the public light. Our feelings and connection were developed in the shadows, and there they must remain.”

Leaning into the table, her voice dropped slightly. Her deep eyes looked back at him from across it. “I may not see every danger that waits for you, but I understand enough to know how much this could cost. I would never risk your name, Alexander… not for anything. If keeping us in shadows is the only way, then I can be okay with that.”

Setting the bread aside, she let out a soft sigh. “I am curious though… she took a moment before continuing, “if there's someone else you keep hidden in these shadows with you?” she said rather bluntly. “I’ve seen how you look at Mina…Charlotte…maybe others.” Her eyes flicked to look up at him, meeting his with her crimson stare.

“And what is it that you believe, Violet?” He tossed the ball in her corner while grabbing his wine glass for another sip. Alexander was quite curious about her asking such a question. The nerve of it was nearly amusing, so… he'd entertain it. He was in a good mood after all.

Idly, Violet's fingers ran up and down the stem of her glass as she looked at him, trying to figure out how to answer his question. “You’re using them for something. For what, well, that I don’t know. Blood, Pleasure, information…maybe all three?” she said softly.

“At first, I would catch the shared looks, the subtle words that seemed to hold more to them than you both lead on. You look at them in a way you’ve never looked at me. I thought it meant there was interest there, and I think there is interest there…” She pulls the glass to her lips to take a sip of the wine before placing it back down.

“I believe that I am the only one in these shadows with you… and I do believe that I’m the only person you’ve let this close to you.” Her crimson eyes flicked up, hesitant, searching his expression. “But you are hard to read sometimes and maybe I am completely off course.” Her gaze dropped back to the wine, swirling what was left before finishing the glass in a single sip.

“I don’t like sharing,” she said as a playful smile appeared on her lips. He smiled back while deceptively choosing to hang on her last few words. He could have confirmed or denied her assumptions but he had little intention on sharing the nature of his relationships with her.

“And yet, you share me with my wife?” He raised the question just as he raised an inquisitive eyebrow.

Her eyes fell away from him, looking out towards the trees behind him. She chose to stay silent. The pit in her stomach swelled with nerves as she took in a breath, attempting to calm them. He would never reveal his hand to her, keeping her at arm's length for his own protection. She knew that, yet his lack of acknowledgement and her craving for reassurances— that would never be given. That was the price of falling for Alexander.

Her hands moved from the table, settling in her lap as her fingers interlocked. They held them firmly as her thumb gently stroked the top of her hand, as her mind attempted to soothe itself instinctively.

As he said. There were limits.

Scarlet eyes looked back at Alexander with a softened and warmed expression “How is Lianna? Well, I hope.” the words felt bitter on her tongue.

“Honestly, I am not sure yet. Likely busying her thoughts since I’m finding it difficult to feel her.” He admitted. “But we both know you don't actually care.” He chuckled lightly as he tore off a small piece of bread and popped it into his mouth.

Feel her? Her head tilted, her gaze narrowing, though her smile lingered, echoing his laugh with one of her own. The word caught like a hook. Feeling her? Her father’s voice whispered in her memory “listen to what is unsaid.” and Alexander had said much, though far more seemed buried beneath. Lianna had cursed him, as her mother had cursed her. What else had Lianna done? Was it magic? The curse was bound to magic, so the idea was not far from a possibility.

“That is not true, not entirely. I know she matters to you. That is why I asked.” Shifting in her seat, she readjusted herself slightly. “Speaking of our families, I had a meeting with my father.” She reached for more bread, pulling small pieces off before enjoying them.

“And how is your father? I’m sure he's been worried about both you and Cassius since the incident after the banquet.” His demeanor shifted into something more serious, concerned even. “My people are still searching for your attackers. They've done well in covering their tracks.”

“He is, as you would expect, on high alert. He has asked me to write down a private ledger; I have to write duplicate letters and hand a copy to one of his men. No errands after dark, and I am not allowed to be traveling without an escort.” She let out a soft sigh “The worst of it, he doesn’t even need to look that far for the answer. Cassius knows something. I can only make assumptions, but I have some idea.”

“Interesting…” Alexander maintained his calm while allowing a short moment of silence to be his trusted friend. “These assumptions of yours. Can you share them?” He focused on what came off as the most vague.

She didn’t hesitate “The night of the attack, Cassius had some awful scratches on his face. It wasn’t an animal; it looked like a person had scratched him. After we got attacked, the figure who attacked Cassius did it with a knife; knives are personal. This felt personal. It didn’t feel like it was an attack on my household, but rather a personal attack. The figure appeared female, but they were gone before I could get a good look.” She leaned back against the chair while Alexander casually nodded.

“At the event just now, I was surprised to see Cassius there in truth. He was not well, and his injuries were bad. It all made sense when I saw Charlotte on the stage, but he had this physical reaction to seeing someone in the crowd. That's when I sat with him, put my hand on his so I could feel just how tense he was, how worried and scared he felt. I kept watching as one of them in the crowd started bidding; he had a physical reaction to it. There was a hesitancy, but he made sure to try and win that bet, and as he had, he suddenly seemed to relax.” Violet took in a breath as her eyes focused on Alexander.

“I can’t say for certain, but I think something happened between Cassius and Charlotte; those injuries on his face were personal. Someone in that crowd who was bidding on Charlotte caused Cassius to panic. I think they were related to the attack somehow and were going after Charlotte. For what? I’m not sure. Maybe to get back at Cassius for something, or maybe their target was Charlotte. Either way, Cassius knows a lot more than he’s leading on.”

“Perhaps…” Alexander shrugged it off, clearly showing he was not convinced by Violet's opinions on why the mentioned events were occurring. “But let's be serious here, Violet. This-” Alexander peered searching for the appropriate descriptor. “-fairytale is unimpressive at best. I doubt the attack has anything to do with today. In fact, I will enlighten you. But first, let's begin with the auction.” Alexander smiled pleasantly now, his confidence at a high.

“Your brother, Cassius, might be a bastard, but we must admit that he's his father's son. Your father's son. You are children of a man who wants what he wants and is not merely satisfied in just having that. To him control is security… Control is comfortable. Cassius Damien would have bet every coin in the bank if it meant he alone could have Charlotte… even if she doesn't want him the same way. I understand you care for him, but he might very well be a monster with a handsome face. Did you not see Charlotte? Did you not see how the flawless pearl cracked ever so slightly the moment he won her? Likely not. You may have just been seeing me…” He shook his head in disapproval and let loose a sigh to sell it further.

“But it can't be helped when you know so little. If you would have told me that you believed that Charlotte was the one to scratch his face, then I could say I wouldn't doubt such a thing. Or perhaps some other woman close to him. Maybe even a catty man.” He chuckled lightly at the last one. “As for the attack… Did you not tell me the attackers named your family when they assaulted you? Are knives only personal or are they also discreet, easy to get rid of, and silent. We are in the capital after all.” He shrugged again sarcastically, acting as if the last undeniable statement could in fact be false. “Lastly, I’m not sure who or what has placed you in their sights, but I assure you, Charlotte Vikena is one of the safest people in Sorian due to her father's unrivaled contributions to the Black Rose. She's essentially a princess in her own right. Protected, and respected as such. That. That is my relationship with her. Now, I don't know who this party is that has made it a pastime in hunting Damiens, but as I said before: Cassius is his father's son. And perhaps just like the boy, the man knows a lot more than he's leading on.” He raised an eyebrow. “Questions? Concerns, maybe?”

“You mistake me, Alexander. I’m not spinning fairytales. I’m telling you what I saw. Cassius wasn’t panicking over coin; he was panicking over a person. The moment he laid eyes on one of the people in that crowd, his entire body reacted. You can shrug and laugh, but I was the one holding his hand when it trembled, and his hand was nearly squeezing my fingers off, watching his eyes dart like a cornered animal’s. You weren’t. Don’t mistake my kindness for Cassius's as genuine. I have no feelings towards him. I play the doting daughter and sister so I can share things more below the surface than you can see.”

No feelings? I doubt that. Alexander only felt that the reveal of this information, true or not, only served to aid Cassius the most. Then again, he also couldn't discount that there were second and third orders of effect that he could see playing out in Violet's favor. If the culprits could be identified, her father could act, and therefore his chokehold on keeping her secured would lessen.

Violet leaned forward slightly, eyes narrowing, her voice cool.

“And as for knives, yes, they’re discreet, but so is poison, so is a garrote. This was different. The attack was not just convenient; it was pointed. They mentioned the Damiens as if it were just a bonus to the whole situation, not a motivation. Her target was Cassius.” Her lips press into the faintest smile, thin and sharp.

“Charlotte may be safe in the capital, but safety is a fragile thing. I’m not convinced she or Cassius is untouchable. And if there’s more he isn’t telling us, then perhaps you should stop dismissing me long enough to consider that there may be some validity to my observations. I am not trying to prove a point to you; I’m simply speaking my thoughts in what I thought was a safe space to do so. You clearly misread my actions, perhaps you're misreading the situation aswell.”

Alexander smiled against her presence, maintaining his coolness. He didn't care to argue, and instead felt challenging her beliefs to be enough.

“Perhaps… It just seems like a lot to speculate on. Connecting two separate events requires a fair amount of evidence, and I just don't believe we have that. But I'm sure time will be the double-edged sword that it is and either reveal this new threat to Cassius or make the threat successful in whatever they wish to achieve while they're still shrouded in darkness.” He didn't like her sturdiness to her personal observations, but he didn't let it show either. Manipulation had its limits. “I like him, so I think I can surely make him nigh untouchable if I allocate efforts toward it.” He nodded softly to himself as if agreeing to the splendid idea. In truth, he'd never do such a thing.

“Now what was the other matter? Your father wants your diary entries?”

She took a moment to process everything he said. It was the first time in a while that she disagreed with Alexander. His deflections had her wonder if he was trying to protect something. Something he knew and didn’t want her to find out about. Something didn’t feel right, whatever it was.

“Something like that. My father is curious about your motives for employing me. I explained to him that I do simple tasks, helping you with paperwork and other mundane things. Though he wants to see if your story adds to mine. What your intentions are, it sounds more like an interrogation than a dinner invite.”

“I expected nothing less from him. You may not care for him, but I know very well he cares for you.” He took a short sip of wine before continuing further. “I do wonder if his political ambitions weigh heavier than his family, so perhaps I'll get to discover it for myself tonight when we'll meet again.” He sent a wink her way. Violet smiled softly in exchange. “I assume you made a third copy of this ledger.” He stated with an expectant grin.

“Third copy?” she repeated “I wasn’t aware you were so interested in my day to day” she smiled, her tone light as she shrugged. “It's not much in reality, just simple notes of where I’ve been with some adjustments to the truth. This date is not on it, for example, which is part of why I handled it the way I have. I was seen in the crowd but left shortly before. Another woman wins the bid, and yet here I sit.”

“So it's a recent thing? This ledger?” Alexander rubbed his chin while nodding to himself as a small smirk formed on his lips. “Good. However, in the future provide me with a copy as well. If he's a smart man, he'll continue to have you practice this, and over time… and space, he'll find the devil in the details that fail to match from our testimonies.” His eyes bore into hers as he leaned over the table, and as Violet reached for her wine glass. “For example: You write that you were pressing my seal against letters… but in truth, I was pressing myself into you.” He shrugged with raised slightly raised hand as if it were an obvious example.

Violet lifted her glass quickly, letting the rim hide the curve of her smile as she took a slow sip. Setting it back down with deliberate care, she tilted her head at him, eyes scarlet despite the warmth in her cheeks.

“Careful, Alexander, or I’ll write that very line into the ledger and slip it across the table to my father.” She swirled the wine in her glass, her grin widening as though savoring the thought. “Imagine explaining that testimony over supper.”

“It would be unfortunate.” He commented with a grin before taking a sip of wine himself. Unfortunate for your father.

She let the moment linger, then added more softly, her smile settling into something gentler. “Though… you’re right. I’ll start making an extra copy for you as well. Best we don’t give him the chance to find any cracks.”

“That’s a good girl.” Alexander winked. “Do you have any more pressing news? Any questions for me, even?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

She sat silent for a moment, her eyes watching him with a lingering smile. “No, Sir.” taking a sip from her glass, she set it down. “I do believe, though, I’ve been doing all the talking, so let me turn your question onto yourself. Do you have any questions for me? Pressing news?”

“I might!” Alexander chimed. “What piques your interest? Or perhaps who piques your interest?”

“You know,” she said with mock seriousness, “all this turning the question onto me makes you look terribly suspicious.” Her grin lingered as she swirled the wine in her glass. Then, after a pause, her voice gentled. “You decide, is there anything you think I should know? Or anything you want to know?”

“Suspicious?” He shook and lowered his head. He almost looked disappointed but his grin had remained. “It’s simply generosity.” His eyes met hers again, to speak to her without the theatrics. “I wouldn't want to waste your time on information that is of little value to you. It just becomes noise or worse, gossip. Besides, if I know who or what you're interested in and I don't have it. I can then look for the answers you seek… but if you prefer I ramble off everything, then I guess we can do it that way.”

He gave her a moment to decide otherwise.

“Time is something I have plenty of, especially for you.” She smiled softly “Please ramble off… ” she gestured with her hand and a wink.

“Very well. I'll start with the people you know… that count friend of yours… I’ve received separate reports for him. None conclusive. He's either preparing to flee back to the Varian Kingdom or he's going to stand his ground. The former, is the smarter move with the threat being what it is. The latter leads to a dead foreign official or a boring outcome where the Bloody Thorns decide he's not worth the effort…. Who's next? Ah, yes, the Vikenas, your neighbors during this courting season. Duke Vikena is in a bit of a rut about Charlotte. Nothing too deep. He simply has concerns about her status as a maiden. Similar to your father, he believes safety means control but has decided to ease off the young lady and watch how her experience during this season unfolds. However, that strange cross-eyed cat living in their home has been identified as a magically summoned familiar. Whose? I don't quite know yet, but it did arrive within the home around the same time as that girl, Olivia. She's a prime suspect, yes, but it could belong to anyone who wants to take a peek into the personal affairs of the Vikena family. I thought it might be your father's… correction. I still think it might be your father's. Speaking of, he has a great deal of control over Duke Vikena. It's quite the abnormality with how the Kingdom is run. A count in one region, pulling the strings of Duke in another. Blackmail, perhaps. The details are not known to me as of yet. Hmm… the Blackwoods. Mina and Sebastian are feuding but all in all, it's simply the rebellious nature of a niece against her overbearing uncle. Sorian men just seem to have a thing about controlling the women in their lives, but that's simply the tradition of things.” He took a short sip of wine before continuing. Violet listened with interest, leaning into the table as he continued. Lord Fritz came as no surprise; her lack of blood has been on the back of her mind for some time. She was surprised to hear about the Vikenas' house pet and the idea that her father may be using magic, but she supposed it wasn’t out of the realm of possibility, though her curiosity piqued more so now with her father and what exactly it was that he does.

He continued to glaze over Mina’s name again, even from the first question she asked. The Count and Mina both said alot during the banquette, insinuating that he was occupying much of her time. Mina even goes as far as to repeat something she knew Alexander to say on a few occasions “you can tell a lot about a person by what they don’t say.” For such a trivial pair, he seemed to spend much time with Mina. Violet did not push it further; however, she saw no use. Who was she to start judging? He is married. His heart, held by Lianna, that human part of his heart that may grow smaller each day, continued to hold onto her. Yet somehow, he holds room for her; perhaps Mina was no exception. She was beautiful, wild, and rebellious. A perfect distraction.

He was protecting her, or them. Either way, there was something there he did not want her to know. Her mind teetered on the wall of trust she had formed, that feeling right before taking a jump off the edge of a cliff. She was scared, so she stayed silent and continued to listen.

“The Knight Captain is investigating you.” He chuckled as Violet's brow raised. “Not Violet Damien but she's definitely on the trail of nobodies that you preyed on. Time shall tell, I think. Kazumin Nagasa… you might not know him by name but surely you've seen him. Blonde, low-born, always eating… anyway, he is by far one of the most interesting people in Sorian as of now. Besides gaining favor with King Edin, he has a secret that I probably shouldn't even discuss here… but why not? The young man is an avid user of dark magic. The dimwitted young man he appears to be is… a mask. A good one too, but that's simply a product of his prowess. He even managed to fool your father into thinking someone fired arrows at your home. Telekinesis is a very potent thing when utilized by the powerful. I don't quite know his goal in being here. Not yet…”

“Princess Anastasia. She's personally supporting the Knight Captain’s investigation, while feigning love for… Farim? Yes. She and her father have agreed to string along the young Alidasht, with the hopes of sealing the deal with his father instead. The goal is to strengthen ties between the Alidasht and the Sorian kingdoms, while having heirs that can compete for the position of Sultan as the Alidasht barbarically do. Meanwhile, Sorian remains pure. It's almost too perfect a plan coming from the king of all people… And I guess it's fitting for him to be last. He makes love to a harem of women while they liken themselves to every proper lady participating in this year's courting season, which includes you of course. He makes you, or I should say, the fake you, rub oil on his nethers just before he takes you…” Alexander shuddered slightly. “Fortunately, you're only his third or fourth favorite.” He shrugged, finishing his long-winded rambling of information.

She let all the information settle between them before speaking “Well, unfortunate for the Captain, that trail will be rather cold. I haven’t done much of anything in some time. My father's men disposed of the ones that attacked us. I don't imagine he would leave much to find. Though with Count Fritz, I suppose I will need to find myself a solution, I can’t keep that Captain snooping around.” She took a sip from her glass. “This is all a lot of information. A dark magic user using the mask of a dimwitted young man is rather smart if that is indeed what he is doing. He is rather close with Oliva and Charlotte from what I’ve seen as well, so your idea regarding the cat could be true.” She took another sip before touching upon the next topic. “and the king having a harem of women… is quite…” she paused “I’m sorry you had to see me in that way, or the third or fourth favorite fake me I should say.” She couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought.

“Tis Sorian…” He sighed, admitting the wild state of the capital. “And you asked for all of it, though I doubt any of it is useful to you. Unless you happen to have aspirations I’m unaware of.” He smirked playfully, but he was being wholly honest. “I wonder if it's easier not knowing. To just bask in the courting season as it's meant to be enjoyed. No magic, no schemes, and definitely no blood spilt… I'm sure you could accomplish the first two.”

“Ah, but I’ve worn that mask of ignorance before. Easier, yes, but utterly useless. It led me here, cursed and scarred. Perhaps if I had pulled my nose out of my books or my head out of the clouds, I could have seen more. These things soothe me, in a way. Everyone seems to have skeletons, something they feel the need to hide. I am starting to see that knowledge is almost like armor; it is to deflect things you do not wish people to know when you have so many layers of secrets to put between you and them. Especially when they are not your own.” Her eyes flicked down to look at her glass of wine before taking another sip. “Or perhaps I am completely speaking out of turn…” her crimson eyes flicked up to meet his. Those eyebrows of his raised, appearing surprised to see her gaze turned on him.

“I’m sorry, could you elaborate? I don't believe I followed that last point about armor and knowledge.” He admitted shamelessly. “I can say having knowledge is advantageous but sometimes it doesn't matter much. Knowledge is only as powerful as your means to act for or against it. If you don't have the means, you just know about something that you can't change or would rather be better off not knowing… Now, let's hear the elaboration, Lady Damien… I think you can manage it before the poison from the wine kicks in.” He nodded to her curtly as her crimson eyes watched, a grin crept on her lips.

“Lady Damien? If I'm short on time, at least allow me the pleasure of my name coming from your lips, then something so formal.” She laughed. “Like I said, I could very well be speaking out of sorts and romanticised the idea. I just wanted to be one step ahead of them next time, so I wouldn't have to go through all that again. Just felt like maybe I could armor myself with information on where they may go next. Even with that information from the Captain, I can prepare myself better and not be caught off guard. I don’t know what my means are yet, I suppose.” Her eyes flicked to look at him again, searching for something. “If I'm being ridiculous, then please tell me. I just want to do something…” she sighed, her eyes looking down, looking idly at the glass.

“I don’t mean to sound foolish… it isn’t that I think I can outwit everyone, or that I believe knowledge alone will save me. I just—” she sighed again “the more I hear myself speak, I really am foolish…maybe I’ve read too many books.” her shoulders dropped as she continued to look at her wine, smirking.

Lifting the glass to her lips, she sipped the wine, her eyes gleaming over the rim of the glass with a cheeky smile.“You were there for my first drink… seems only fitting you should be here for my last.” She leaned back against the chair as the rim of the glass continued to rest against her bottom lip, her cheeks glowing slightly pink.“Is there any more elaboration I can do for you Alexander?” She drew out his name into a smile, leaning just a little closer, letting the name roll off her tongue.

“No, I’ve heard enough. Learned a little here and there about the woman I’ve come to love.” He spoke softly and avoided eye contact, subtle indicators of his disappointment if the melancholy expression wasn't enough. With a noticeable sigh, he continued. “Don’t waste information, Violet,” he simply said before standing up and giving her a quick customary bow. “I’ll see you tonight.” And with that, he made his departure.

It was because I trusted you… Her eyes glanced at the glass before her hand moved slowly, placing it down onto the table.

A pity. She was so very close.

Young Justice

Location: Boca Catalina, Aruba
Interactions: Vincent & Erin @Daxam, Cora @Blizz
Mentions: Daphne

---

“That explains the glare you gave him." Vincent’s chime in was met with a lazily executed guilty shrug. He hadn’t thought anyone else was paying attention, but he wasn’t entirely surprised that the Team’s go-to scout
noticed what had occurred.

"I'm taking a guess by saying this, but would it be safe to say that this is the first time you've been in a relationship? Or at least in such a serious one?” Erin asked as he grabbed his first plate from her. The aroma coming off his plate kept him from answering right away, and even when he did, his eyes were glued to the food.

“Correct on both.” He simply answered, but also wanted to ask about what it means to be in a relationship that wasn’t serious. Curbing the question for some of his independent research, he listened to what Erin had to say next. Introducing her background, first? Impressive. He shot a brief look at Vincent, acknowledging whatever good choices he made to have Erin as his girlfriend.

"To say that how you felt wasn't normal would be dismissive. Your feelings matter, and it's good that you've already told Daphne that you wanted to talk. Just don't forget that when you do, her feelings matter, too. She might not realize that you felt hurt when she got close to Will, so make sure you keep that in mind when you talk. Don't go into the conversation heated, or else you can end up pushing her away. Calmly talk to her about what happened, how it made you feel, and go from there.”

Viktor nodded quietly, shooting a glance toward Daphne, a distance away. He took care to make a mental checklist in his head to reference later, but the overall takeaway so far was to maintain calm, which he felt was easy enough for himself.

"Opening your heart to someone is scary. You have to make yourself vulnerable to someone, and that requires an amount of trust. You have to trust that she won't intentionally hurt you, and she has to do the same for you, or else your relationship won't last. You do trust her, right?”

“Hmm, sometimes.” Viktor winced at his own response. “I mean, when it comes to our relationship, yes, I trust her.” With a momentary aversion of his gaze, Viktor added, “I just know we’re both new to this, and most interpersonal relationship-related things are a challenge for me… We’ll make mistakes.” he nodded solemnly before looking up at Vincent and Erin with a sheepish grin. “However, I have good friends.” Viktor was glad for that and was grateful for how things seemed to work out together.

"You guys have been friends for, what, not even a year?" Cora hopped in, pulling Viktor’s attention to her added insight. "Considering the things we get up to, it's amazing you're all still here. There was a point where each of us was pretty scared to fight a bad guy, right? And now it's natural. You and Daph might have no idea what you're doing now, but you will one day." Viktor nodded in agreement, knowing full well how many trials the team had gone through.

"Whatever goes wrong, it goes wrong for a reason. You'll both figure it out. You deserve to.”

“Thanks, Cora. And you as well, Vincent and Erin. For the food, too. I believed that helped me and… I’m positive the talk with Daph will go smoothly.” He thought he was finished, but raised his eyebrows upon realizing something. “None of you can talk about any of this. Daph, doesn’t think anyone’s caught on, and I’d like for her to be comfortable believing that for a little longer. Okay?” He eyed the three of them as if he was asking them to promise to keep a classified mission between them.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Olivia

and

Eri

---

Olivia sat outside in the rose garden on the bench and admired the flora and fauna around her. It was incredible, to say the least. There was a basic book on the bench next to her. She was hoping she could try reading to ease her mind. She couldn’t believe something as beautiful as the garden existed in this cursed city. Liv waited impatiently for Charlotte to return to the estate so she could ask how the date had gone with Cassius; and hoped that Lottie did not know she had bid on Alexander. She eyed the scenery around her and contemplated the past 24 hours.

All was still and gentle, until the sound of fluttering wings cut through the ambience. Black feathered wings flapped rapidly as the large corvid landed on the cobblestone path that lined the vast garden. The guest in the shape of a raven might have been dismissed if it weren't for the way it immediately looked up at her. It didn't croak or look upon her as if it were in need of something. Instead, it stared at Liv. It stared at her with an uncanny intelligence.

Olivia had picked up a book, when she felt as though eyes were on her. Suspicions rose as she gazed around her. It was then she noticed the raven. Olivia blinked. Did they normally have ravens? The way it stared at her intently with uncanny intelligence told her this was not a normal raven. She glanced around, then casually stood up and kept a careful distance.

“Hello, raven. How are you?” Her voice was calm and friendly, though she prepared mentally for whatever might happen next. “Can I help you with something?”

There should have been silence between them. That's what was supposed to occur when someone decided to strike up a conversation with an animal of the wilds. The raven looked to the left, then to its right, and finally turned itself around to ensure there was no one else in sight.

“Hello. You…” The raven answered, mimicking Liv’s voice.

“It’s a pleasure…” She mimicked another's— Alexander's.

“I most certainly would enjoy getting to know you more…” The familiar voice of Charlotte, now.

“I hope I am not intruding on anything important…” Violet’s.

“Olivia,” And finally Lorenzo's.

Olivia stared at the raven with wide-eyes and her jaw agape. Had she truly heard multiple voices coming from the raven? She took a half-step back and dropped the book with disbelief. “What the hell?” She knew ravens could mimic speech but the voices it chose were too on the nose. Liv glanced around to try to see if she could find anyone from the Black Rose hiding amongst the garden, but she couldn’t see.

“.....” She opened her mouth to speak, and came up with nothing. “...Is there something you need?” She stooped down to pick up the book. As she picked it up, she took a deep breath. Liv stood up quickly. “Did anyone send you to talk to me or something?”

“Did anyone send you to talk to me or something?” The raven mimicked again, but this time it was followed by croaks of laughter.

Olivia’s brows furrowed. What the hell was happening?

“Silly girl. Funny girl.” She spoke in a new and completely unfamiliar voice this time as she fluttered up onto the bench. “Sit! I want a strand. A strand of hair. Yours!” The raven demanded stiffly.

The way it changed voices made her head spin.

Liv hesitated and glanced around. She didn’t see anyone around, yet she wondered if they were hiding. She glanced at the crow out of her peripheral vision. This was not an ordinary raven; not in the way it spoke, used familiar and unfamiliar voices and now wanted a piece of her hair. That was a first to any curse or hex. Olivia pulled her hood up, then tucked her braid into the dress’ back to keep it out of her face. She pulled any loose strands out of her face.

Was this a familiar? She’d read about them but had never dared summon one. If so….

”We can chat, but you can’t have a piece of my hair.” She remained standing out of reach of the raven and cocked her head to one side.

”What do you want my hair for, little raven? Do you know the word please?” Sarcasm melted into her voice, lukewarm, yet it remained.

“I need. Your hair. To speak. Freely. Please” Eri added a harsh croak as if adding in an insult using another language. “I will return it. I’ll do what I must.”

All the warning bells in Olivia’s head went off. She warily took a step back. “You cannot have a piece of my hair.” She looked at the raven sternly. “If you want to discuss anything with me, bring your witch with you next time.”

Liv looked around once more, decided they were alone, and then whispered under her breath, barely audibly: “Invisio.” From there, she vanished from view and stealthy made her way out of the garden, quietly as possible.

Meanwhile Eri let loose croak, flapping her wings in irritation.

I should have just plucked your eye out! You think I can't– ugh, forget it. I'll have my fun with someone else.

Neo Genesis: Chronicles of Eberron

Miris

Race: Changeling
Class: Part-Time Fighter
Location: Top Deck, Airship to Khorvaire
Interactions: Menzai @samreaper, Phia @princess, Envoys Mentions: Captain Cindralis, Bastion @Oso, Arya/Ayra @Potter

Equipment:

Equipment

⋆ Lots of Clothes
⋆ Arming sword
⋆ Battle-axe
⋆ Mace
⋆ Daggers
⋆ Bow & Arrows
⋆ Shortsword
⋆ Leather Armor
⋆ Half-plate Armor
⋆ Hide Armor
⋆ Toolkit
⋆ Camping Equipment
⋆ Locked chest filled with old trinkets that ARE NOT FOR SALE
⋆ Magnifying glass
⋆ Diary
⋆ Sketchbook
⋆ Pencils
⋆ Dried and Cured Meats
⋆ Nuts
⋆ Second Locked Chest with self-care products
⋆ Bag of holding

Attire: beige trousers, brown tunic, and worn brown boots
Gold Balance: 3 (on hand)
Injuries: None
Current Persona: Minerva

---

“If she goes… I go.” The large warforged piping up was unexpected, and therefore, he somewhat pulled Minerva out of character for a brief moment. Why is he so big? She looked up at him with wide eyes as if he were a hundred feet tall. Sure, she had seen him previously, but he just looked so much taller when he spoke up like that. Raising an eyebrow, she attempted to assess his motives before being unable to note his size again. Bringing him will be good, and I think Wendel mentioned being kind to him or something. What he should have written down is that this guy is a siege weapon with legs. I’ll be sure to add that… When I get to it.

"I am going to ask that you do not hurt our captain again. " Phia had said with the edge, she knew the potential psychopath had. It would take some time for Minerva to get over that first impression. Still, the shifter found herself more than satisfied with her “ask.”

Ah, Sweet Phia of the Uncanny Double-Wave, I knew you could show ‘em! Minerva’s eyes had lit up the moment Phia tailored her question into a request. The feline shifter was proud— very proud, in fact, but she was also concerned at what a request like that might be answered with. She couldn’t quite read the envoys all that well, since they were adamant on keeping up that flair of theirs, but Phia’s words would either be met with understanding or defiance like all requests in the history of… the history of… the history of all time! That’s how requests to stop usually went. The person either accepted or persisted, and looking at the trio with all the power in their hands right now, they could either settle on what they had garnered or double down on it to show that they were, in fact, still in power.

“That was a good one, Phia. You’re better on your toes than most elves, I reckon.” Minerva said softly, about a few octaves above a whisper. She wasn’t sure if that statement was true, but she declined to think on it since it felt right in the moment. She glanced at Captain Cindralis, hoping the envoys might listen, and then thought about what she could say to push the pirates toward her preferred outcome. Unfortunately, another spoke up ahead of her.

“May I interject? Forgive the interruptions.”

“Menzai.” She said faintly as she looked in his direction, eyeing his face like the beast resting on the tiefling girl’s shoulder. Damn his stoic face!

“As time seems to be of most importance due to this ship’s rather fragile state. Can you feel the rumblings?”

“Menzai…” She was glaring at him now. It wasn’t what he was saying, but how he hadn’t truly emoted and expressed a feeling she could properly read. However, she followed his gaze, watching as he looked toward the things that mattered to him. The captain, the engines, and of course, herself, as she failed to think he was looking at Phia.

“With that said, searching the ship even with your crew may prove too ineffectual. And here you hold the captain, the very man who knows all its secrets.” He looked at the captain and… Bazinga! Yeah, I saw those puppy dog eyes! I saw ‘em! An excitable energy shot up in Minerva, causing her to simper briefly in Menzai’s direction. She was not surprised that another shifter found themselves enamored with Captain Cindralis. In fact, Minerva would consider it a great sin to deny such objective feelings. To hide them, in an effort to protect the captain and keep the envoys from knowing what truly mattered to him was… It was beautiful! “Perhaps a suggestion? An offer to ensure those on this ship go unharmed, then what treasures are held on this great vehicle, the captain may be more willing to part with.” Minerva listened as Menzai went on, satisfied with her assessment of him and his romantic interest, but slightly dissatisfied with how he was going about it with his fancy way of speaking. These were pirates! “With such a visible crash, chances other such sharks caught whiff of blood in the water. Such as your crew has, further adding to the need for haste. That is, if you wish to contend with rival crews and our resistance if further harm befalls the innocents?”

“Woooh! Menzai! Good speech! Good speech! I will make sure not to skimp out on the wet food today!” Minerva clapped for him like a parent who was just excited to see her child participate… even if she thought he had done miserably. With a clearing of her throat, she faced the pirate envoys. She had to talk fast. “Captain Beckett! Nix whatever unreasonable things the dog-man was saying. I speak now, not as a pirate, but as the dog’s handler.” She took a moment to wave a fist at Menzai as a threat that he would be beaten thoroughly when she got her hands on him. “What both he and Sweet Phia were trying to explain is that the ship is very flimsy after the crash, and that the crippled Captain of the ship there, needs to not be further crippled so he can address any issues the ship will likely have…” She shrugged. “I don’t really care too much if this thing goes kaboom while meeting with the pirate prince, but I’d rather speak his highness while he’s not upset that he lost all of his booty in an explosion… and sharks, I guess, from what my dog sniffed out.” Minerva nodded her head as if she was mentally forcing the pirates to agree with her thinking. She just hoped she saved Captain Cindralis, so she and Menzai wouldn’t lose someone they shared shallow, but strong feelings for.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Mr. Deacon}

Time: Day
Location: Auction Event, Sorian Park
Attire: Classic Black Tux
Interaction: Charlotte, Cassius
Mention:

---

Mina, Calbert

Alexander couldn't help but steal glances over at Charlotte each and every time her bid rose. He knew she would spark something within the crowd but what he witnessed was much more than he could ask for. Cassius wore a mask every other Damien but today it fitted quite crookedly upon his face. He didn't simply want to win Charlotte— the young man seemed as though he needed to. Charlotte's faint reaction however, left Alexander with more to be desired in knowing about the relationship between the two.

Duke Vikena's heiress had never painted herself as some damsel in distress or the traditional Caesonian woman yearning to be courted, yet there was a way in which her expression shifted when her eyes landed on Cassius. Alexander only wished he knew just how bad of a sting Cassius dealt when he upped the bid to one thousand.

I figured a man like you might enjoy keeping a game going. Do you always bid so heavy handedly? Despite his surface thoughts, the high bid worked in his favor.

“Cassius Damien!” Alexander laughed while clapping cheerfully. “There’s that competitive Damien spirit I’ve heard so much about! Like father, like son! A true hunter!” Alexander extended his hand out to place the attention of all on Cassius… and to set up his punchline of course. “Just try not to have any thoughts about mounting her head on a wall! Good win, Cassius,” Alexander congratulated just before shooting one last look at Charlotte as she exited the stage.

“Thank you, Charlotte. I do appreciate you taking part in this. Truly.” He said this without all the flair he had in his voice just a few seconds prior. The reason being, was because he honestly meant it. For certain, there were dark motives at play for the charity, but Alexander indeed desired the funds raised to go toward Sorian’s impoverished. It wouldn't ultimately change things for all the men, women, and children in need, but a little extra coin could be the catalyst for change for few who needed just the slightest push forward.

“Ladies and gentlemen!” This is why Alexander was willing to push this event along a little further than other members of his organization. “Mina Blackwood and I graciously thank you for attending this fine and splendid event on Drunkard's Day, no less! Lady Vikena's bid was definitely the climax of this generous auction… but we have one final person to bid on! To raise the stakes, winning this bid will not offer a simple basket of treats, but a freshly prepared two course meal, all the wine you can handle, and a special gift for you to walk away with!” Alexander gauged the anticipation of the audience. “I’d say that's quite the tempting offer… even if your date happens to be the unpleasant sort.” He garnered a few chuckles. “The last and final offer of the Caesonia Dating Auction is yours truly! Alexander Deacon!”

“No starting bid! I don't expect to get anywhere close to Lady Vikena's value and I doubt I’m desired by one of the Damiens!”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

_{Mr. Deacon}

Time: Day
Location: Auction Event, Sorian Park
Attire: Classic Black Tux
Interaction: Charlotte
Mention:

---

Cassius, Callum, and Kira

Alexander's expression was filled with delight— amusement even as the players for Charlotte's bid revealed themselves. First was a deep-voiced gentleman who had initiated with the first bid, then Kira… 120? Beautifully done, Miss Mapenzi. Beautifully done. He was all too happy to see such a bump to the bid.

Shooting a glance at Charlotte, he noted her surprise.

“That is quite interesting, isn't it.” He said low enough so only those on the stage would hear.

“Two hundred.”

The eyes of the Black Rose’s vice president darted over to Cassius, looking upon the man with interest. Your father probably felt the sting of that from here, child.

And where there was one Damien, there was always sure to be another. Seated right beside him with her hand on his, was where Alexander's favorite Damien placed herself. His eyes took her in, devouring her very presence— tasting and digesting it with just one look. His thoughts trailed back to the night she had visited him. A moment he still questioned whether her words rang true. He could see her dangling and holding on for dear life from the cliff— alone with fewer she could trust to pull her up. Her parents could not be confided in. Roman had walked away, smiling at her fate. Then there was Cassius… Cassius was there, but how strong was his grip? Could he keep her from falling down into his jaws below, hung open and salivating as he watched her fingers strain from the pain of holding on? Cassius was her only hope, and he was wounded himself.

Alexander glanced at Charlotte once more. A wounded man can't afford to help another. Violet will be fine, Cassius. You have other things to worry about.

“Three-hundered!” The timing couldn't have been better. Callum was the wildcard he hadn't anticipated, but he would only help work things in his favor. “And another hundo from the MON-KAAAAY!”

“A woman, Lord Cassius Damien and Prince Callum Danrose! Didn't I tell you all, Lady Vikena is as exceptional as it gets!”

“Four-fifty.” The deep voiced man announced calmly while tipping his bowler hat toward the stage.

---

Donald Herring

Interactions: Stratya @citrusarms Mina @Tae

The moment Donald realized he won, he jolted with an energy he hadn't felt in many years. Stratya was one he wanted to have a date with, and he had been ready to bid everything he had on his person to ensure it. He gave once over to the other men who had contended for a moment with her, noting who he had beaten in the short-lived bidding war. It was both a matter of pride and recognizing his competition if he were to truly begin courting the knight-captain.

Once his glances of superiority over the others was over, he stood up, eyes affixed on his lovely prize of woman who waited beside Lady Blackwood. Just a few more steps, m’lady, and we can have our wonderful time together He tapped his brown leather satchel which contained a Courting Kit, a collection of goodies that could prepare any man for the splendors of Courting Season made popular by the one and only Duke Lorenzo Vikena!

Donald was grinning ear to ear as he approached Stratya, reaching into his coin purse, ready to get the payment out of the way.

“Lady Blackwood, the offering is all there. 100 gold for a woman who is worth far more than mere coin.” He looked at Stratya and winked as he handed over the funds. After that, he faced Stratya and took a single step toward her with an open hand to take hers.

“Sir Donald Herring is your date on this wonderful day, m’lady. Please, lead us toward our private paradise.” His expression could only be described as smitten.