JJ Doe

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Ríoghnach "Riona"

Riona surprised herself every year by forgetting how much she detested these annual gatherings. The preparations began months before the event, but as the special day drew nearer, the servants became busier. In addition to their regular responsibilities, the party's preparations had to be flawless. No, better than flawless. Anything less would be seen as an affront to the royal family. Even if the lack of perfection was due to last-minute alterations ordered by the King himself, his servants were still to blame for failing him. So, they all did what they could. Every demand was met, no matter how ridiculous, dangerous, or unreasonable it was. They did what they could. Even if someone was seriously injured or fell ill because of lack of sleep or overworking. They did what they could because the King didn’t make it a habit to keep useless tools.

As much as months of preparation chipped away at their wellbeing, what Riona hated the most was having to look after the guests. Fortunately for her, she was usually assigned to clean up after guests rather than directly serve them. And my, what a mess they can make. Nobles have complained about commoners being no better than animals, but even Riona has seen pigs that made less of a mess than some of these lot, especially when alcohol and drugs got involved. Riona had a sneaking suspicion that the nobles genuinely believed that they were incapable of making messes. Why would they? As far as they could tell, as soon as they made a mess, it’s magically disappeared within seconds! The servants were invisible in that way. Never noticed until they get in the way of someone.

There were more servants in the ballroom than gusts, but many of them were hidden in the shadows of the pillars or tucked away in the quiet nooks of the vast space. Alert and ready.

Well, Riona thought she was until the guests from Alidasht arrived.

She couldn't stop gawking at the grand parade that was taking place indoors. She would have thought the King had ordered a circus as entertainment if she didn't know better. Someone even clapped at the spectacle. As the parade moved along, the flower petals fluttered to the ground. Feet and paws trampled them, smushing them into the polished floor.

Riona grimaced before turning to another servant who was also on cleaning duty. They made eye contact. Without making any other gestures, Riona directed her college's sight to the flower petals on the floor and then to the animals by looking at them herself. When she looked back at the other servant, she saw the moue on their face. Cleaning smashed flowers from the floor was one thing, potential animal excreta was a whole other matter entirely. Riona prayed that the animals were housebroken, but she couldn't take any chances.

Her colleague turned to face her, and once their eyes were locked again, they shook their head, then pointed their chin at her and then the animals in quick succession. Riona glared in response before mimicking the gesture back. This silent exchange lasted until her colleague mouthed the words “please,” followed by what Riona assumed was an attempt at puppy dog eyes. She huffed. YOU, she pointed at them. OWE. The finger changed directions to point at herself, ME. The other servant gave an earnest nod.

As they slinked off to fetch extra cleaning supplies in case the animals couldn’t resist the call of nature, Riona walked over to the petals on the floor, broom and dustpan in hand. She swept up the petals as fast and quietly as she could, being careful to not bump into anyone or look them in the eyes. The last thing she needed was for one of the guests to think she was challenging their authority by daring to stare directly at them.

She was cautious, but she was only human after all. Mistakes happened. Her focused cleaning and deft dodging skills lead her to back up towards the ballroom entrance. It wasn’t that she was blind to its existence; rather, she assumed that everyone important enough to go through those specific doors was already enjoying the party. When the ballroom was in use, Servants had to use the "hidden" doors that were made to look like they were part of the walls. No one wanted to see servants hauling out the trash so blatantly when everything around them was so pretty.

She heard nothing. Well, no, technically she heard a lot of noises coming from all directions. What she didn’t hear was the doors opening. She startled herself when the heel of her foot landed on something far too soft to be part of the door. She froze in place when she felt the thing move away from her weight. Sh*t. Riona spun around and even before she saw who she stepped on, her head was bowed low as she could go, "I am terribly sorry. Have I hurt you?" She saw the expensive-looking dress shoes and the end of equally expensive-looking pants. She could feel the temperature drop. F**k. Sh*t. F**k F**k. "... Sire."

"Oh! No, no! The fault is entirely mine. I apologize, I should have been looking where I was going." The voice above her sounded chipper, with no hint of anger. "I was distracted by this castle’s beauty. It has so much history… and is in such pristine shape! I suspect I have you and the other staff to thank?"

Riona dared not look up, but the muscles in her body relaxed. "You honor us with your kind words." Keeping her head bowed, she glided to the side. "Please, enjoy everything Caesonia has to offer."

The man thanked her, but lingered a little longer than Riona had anticipated. She took a chance to move her gaze upward. Two others in respectable, but plainer attire, stood behind the man. Most likely his servants. They appeared to be equally unfazed by the accident as their master was. Which was probably the only reason why a maid stepping on a nobleman’s foot wasn’t garnering more attention. The three exchanged hushed words, before the servants left as silently as they came in.

Riona quickly collected the remaining petals around the entrance after she watched the man walk straight towards the throne where King Edin and Queen Alibeth sat. She couldn't afford to have another incident like that happening tonight.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

The wailings of a woman pierced the ears of the coachman and footmen, forcing them to tear their gaze away from the beautiful Varian coastal landscape. It was a fine day; the sky was as clear as it could be, and the winds were warm and gentle. The kind of weather that inspired people to go on walks, just to simply enjoy it. The ideal weather for travel.

This juxtaposed the shower of tears that ran down some of the faces gathered around the horse carriage on which the coachman was perched. Even those who did not openly cry wore grim expressions, as morose as a heavy rain cloud. People near the bawling woman did their best to comfort her, but each attempt seemed to only exacerbate or spread the melancholy like a contagious disease.

The coachman didn’t —couldn’t— understand what all the fuss was about. It was just another posh party. Surely it shouldn’t warrant such grief, especially as a noble. He mentally rolled his eyes as he watched the family in front of him finally calm the woman down enough to start exchanging hugs and kisses with the man the woman was weeping for. Count Fritz Hendrix. One of His Majesty’s many esteemed guests for this year’s annual gathering.

The woman, no doubt the Count's mother, was the last to bid farewell. Hands cupped her son’s face, and she scrutinized him as if determined to etch every detail of his face to memory, before reluctantly letting the Count go so that he could board the carriage.

A herd of people followed the carriages out the front gate, waving or shouting out their good luck and take cares at the Count, who in turn waved back and reassured them he would. The coachman half-expected the herd to follow them all the way to Sorian, but the group stopped short at the border of Hendrix’s estate, continuously waving at the Count and his entourage. They stayed glued to that spot even as it became impossible to tell who was in the carriage. They were still there when the carriages turned into nothing but dots on the horizon. And the escorts from Caesonia wondered if they intended to stand there forever. Until the day Count Fritz Hendrix returned into their loving embrace.

---

The journey to Caesonia Castle was surprisingly agreeable with Count Hendrix. As soon as the Hendrix estate was nowhere in sight, the Count properly introduced himself and his servants to the escorts, and asked for each of their names, horses included. Throughout the trip he engaged in pleasant conversations or good-natured banter with his traveling companions. Whenever they passed something of any significance, anything ranging from a landmark to the goods sold at a store, he acted as a tour guide, entertaining them with relevant information and some less relevant stories about the place or thing. On occasion, he would buy food from vendors and share it with the others, insisting that it would be a terrible waste for the escorts to travel this far and not try out the local cuisine.

Through these interactions, the escorts got the distinct impression that, despite coming from a wealthy family, the Count was perfectly comfortable mingling with the commonfolk, and that the sentiment was mutual. At one point, when the carriage passed through a town near the Hendrix estate, the townspeople who had previously avoided the carriages baring Danrose’s family crest suddenly seemed less threatened by its existence when they recognized who was inside it. Some waved or bowed slightly in greeting. Some became brazen enough to approach and knock on the window when the vehicle had slowed down or stopped for one traffic reason or another. Each time this happened, the Count enthusiastically opened the window to exchange pleasantries with the brave soul. Perhaps it was less about being brave and more about being confident that no harm would come to them. They knew they were safe with the Count. That much was evident from their expressions.

---

Despite the return to Sorian being infinitely more eventful than their way to the Hendrix estate, time seemed to fly by much faster for the escorts. Regrettably so. They wouldn’t have minded if the trip lasted a little longer, but the last thing they wanted was to be punished for bringing the guest late to the party.

After thanking his escorts with words and handsome tips, the Count stood outside the carriage, staring at the marvel that was Caesonia Castle. Sorian’s crown jewel was breathtakingly majestic by every measure; an architectural masterpiece in its own right. There were very few of its kind in the Three Kingdoms, so it was near impossible not to be wonderstruck by the palace's presence.

Yet, that was not what the coachman saw on the Count’s face. Not the same awe he had felt when he first started working at the Castle. No. It was as blank as a new sheet of paper. He saw nothing there, which unsettled him more than it ought to have. Perhaps because it reminded him of soldiers heading into hopeless battle.

That was when it dawned on him that this man was going to die here.

Those mother’s tears were not an overaction to her grown child leaving the house for a fancy party. It was out of despair. Sadness derived from the knowledge that she may not ever see him again. For she had sent her boy off to war.

The coachman froze involuntarily when the Count turned to face him, noticing his intense gaze. Count Hendrix studied the face of the other man briefly before directing an understanding smile at him. "I must thank you once again for the lovely ride, Mr. Brisby."
“It was a pleasure, Lord Hendrix,” the coachman bowed his head slightly. “It would honor us to accompany you again for the return trip. Until then, please enjoy your stay.
"Why thank you. I most certainly will," he nodded before addressing the other footmen as well. "I hope you all have a wonderful day."

As he drove the carriage away from the front entrance, the coachman could not help but hope that his earlier intuition was wrong; that they would indeed meet the Count again, alive and well. They were going to take him home where his family prayed for his safe return. If he was so inclined, maybe they could take a different route back, enjoy the scenery together, and mayhap try some of the local delicacies along the way.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Ríoghnach

Ríoghnach "Riona" | 24 | Female

---

Appearance

Height:5”10’/177cm
Weight:146lb/66kg
Eye Color: The darkest of browns, almost black
Hair Length/Texture: Mid-back length/Wavy curls
Hair Color: Predominantly black with some brown strands
Skin Color: Olive
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): N/A
Distinguishing features: Hidden under her clothes are countless scars. Most are minor: ones that come from simple mishaps; normal scars that could form on anyone over the course of their lives. Some look like marks left by corporal punishment. But the largest, nastiest scars are on her abdomen and back. Based on the angle, one can surmise that the scars came from what should have been a fatal stab wound.
Clothing Preferences: As a servant who works under the Danrose family —one that the royal family may even see— there are strict protocols to what Riona can or cannot wear. Like many of the other domestic workers, Riona is often seen wearing the issued uniform: a simple, modest servant's dress that covers as much skin as possible, from neck to toe, and a brooch which signifies that the person wearing it was a property of the Danrose. When in uniform, Riona's hair is tied into a tight bun or tucked away in a mobcap. On the rare occasion that she is off duty or doing manual labor outdoors, Riona prefers to wear tunics and pants that are long enough to cover her limbs.

---

Psychology

Likes:

• Music
• Art work
• Money
• Freedom

Dislikes:

• The Danrose bloodline, the King in particular (though the Queen is a close second)
• Uncleanliness
• Wastefulness
• Unfulfilled promises

Sexuality:
Bisexual/Demiromantic

Hobbies:

• Singing
• Dancing
• Drawing
• Crafting

Life Goals/Dreams:
To get out of her current situation and find happiness.

Personality Summary:
While on duty as a housemaid, Riona is a quiet and reserved woman. She's a conscientious worker who reliably completes what is asked of her, but beyond that, she is more or less invisible to members of the Danrose family and their guests. A living doll, whose sole purpose in life is to be at the beck and call of her betters.

Once hidden from Danroses and Danrose loyalist's eyes and ears, Riona becomes much more unruly, frank, and short-tempered. With how much she must hold herself back on a daily basis dealing with stuck-up nobles, she has little patience left to deal with others' nonsense outside of her job. Had Riona abandoned all sense of responsibility, she would have left this life for another with more freedom. But she doesn't. She can't. Not because she is loyal to the Danrose family —far from it—, but because she holds onto grudges with a vice-like grip.

---

Background

Current occupation:
Maidservent

Any past occupations?:
N/A

Relatives:
Orphaned

Skills:

• Most dometic skills (such as cooking, cleaning, and sewing)
• Stealth (To be considered a good maid in the Danrose family, one must learn to be unseen, unheard, and unnoticed)
• Gardening
• Herbalism
• Scouting
• Knife and dagger proficiency
• Singing
• Drawing

History Summary:
When Riona was little, her family was killed before her very eyes. With no one else to look after her, Riona was taken in by a family acquaintance who happened to be a gardener employed by the Danroses. As she started to assist the gardener with work, she also started taking on menial tasks below stairs. This eventually led her to be officially trained and employed as a maidservant.

---

Questionnaire

Questionnaire

During the entire interview, the servant remains perfectly still, maintaining a blank expression, and only talks in a tone which makes it difficult to discern what she is really feeling.

History

Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
"The head housekeeper made sure I was trained properly." I'd say 50/50. Not completely neglected, but not really nurtured. I was actually treated pretty well for being an orphan, all things considered.

When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
"It would be highly unprofessional to abandon one's duties just because one's feelings were hurt. Such behavior should not be tolerated." There's really nowhere I can reliably go to, so I usually run to the first place I can be alone in. Even better if that somewhere has a pillow I can punch or scream into.

What were you like in your teenage years?:
"Ignoring the occasional hiccup, disciplined." A hormonal mess, which I guess is what teens are. I think I mellowed out since then... Comparatively speaking.

How close are you to your parents?:
"Not very close, considering they are no longer with us." But when they were alive? ... I hope so. I can barely remember what they looked like now.

Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
"Nothing that will impact my duties." My family and friends' death.

What advice would you give your younger self?:
"Study as hard as you can." And it doesn't change what will happen? Then nothing... Wait, no. 'Spend as much time with everyone.'

Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
"I have been, am, and forever will be, His Majesty's loyal servant." As surprising at it sounds, I think I've always been more on the obedient side, even as a little rascal. If anything, I wish I was more defiant. Like, start a revolution or something. Instead, I'm just spitting into their drinks and food when I know no one's watching.

What is your biggest regret?:
"I have no regrets. I am honored to serve His Royal Majesty." Being the lone survivor.

Romance

Have you ever been in love? :
"I am devoted to serving the royal family." Teenage love, with one of the stable boys. I even considered eloping with him. That dream ended when he was trampled to death because a couple of noble brats thought it'd be funny to scare the horses sh*tless.

What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
"A respectable, honest man who is devoted to serving Caesonia as much as I am." Someone
—anyone— who makes me feel safe. Who cares about... me, as a person. Not... as a tool.

How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
"I will have to refrain from answering such inappropriate questions." With the amount of work I have, it might be hard to spend time together... all I can give are words of affirmation and physical touch. But... the thing is... with the physical touch. I have a hard time with it sometimes. It's not that I dislike the intimacy... it's just... Well. I just need time to get comfortable with it.

Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
"Forgive me for repeating myself, but I will have to refrain from answering inappropriate questions." As much as I want to say it was with that stable boy, it wasn't. My first kiss was one of those 'practice-kisses' with one of the other maids-in-training. It was... a bumbling attempt at best.

Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
"No." No and I probably never will understand why that's even a thing. It just sounds like infatuation for how someone looks.

What does marriage mean to you?:
"The union of two families." An economic proposition? I know, it's not the least bit romantic, but really, what's it for aside from legally claiming that the other person, and their things, are also 'yours'?

Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
"No." Nope.

Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
"If circumstance allows it." Eh. I guess? Maybe? Who knows.

Personality

Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
"To have everything perfectly prepared for the family, like any other day of the week." Not having to work.

What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
"The perfect servant, one worthy to be a Lady's maid or even head housekeeper." A free person.

What bad habits do you have?:
"Some have told me that I should smile more often while on duty." I think it's this job, but I think I can get a bit too picky about stupid little things.

If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
"Absolutely nothing." Everything, if I could.

What is your greatest fear?:
"Tardiness." That nothing changes.

What are your pet peeves?:
"Imperfection." You know when something gets disorganized or dirty just when you finished organizing or cleaning it a second ago? Yeah, that. Makes me feel like I wasted my f**kingtime.

When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
"As a professional, one should know how to deal with such unproductive emotions." Alone if I'm still at work. With others, if I'm not.

Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
"Fighting is not in my job description." If the fight is not dangerous, then maybe with words. But, I'd probably be really bad at it. I always have my knife with me, so I won't hesitate to use it if things turn for the worst.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

The Servant

Ríoghnach "Riona" | 24 | Female

---

Appearance

Height:5”8’/177cm
Weight:146lb/66kg
Eye Color: The darkest of browns, almost black
Hair Length/Texture: Mid-back length/Wavy curls
Hair Color: Predominantly black with some brown strands
Skin Color: Olive
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): N/A
Distinguishing features: Hidden under her clothes are countless scars. Most are minor: ones that come from simple mishaps; normal scars that could form on anyone over the course of their lives. But the largest, nastiest scars are on her abdomen and back. Based on the angle, one can surmise that the scars came from what should have been a fatal stab wound.
Clothing Preferences:As a servant who works under the Danrose family —one that the royal family may even see— there are strict protocols to what Riona can or cannot wear. Like many of the other domestic workers, Riona is often seen wearing the issued uniform: a simple, modest servant's dress that covers as much skin as possible, from neck to toe, and a brooch which signifies that the person wearing it was a property of the Danrose. When in uniform, Riona's hair is tied into a tight bun or tucked away in a mobcap. On the rare occasion that she is off duty or doing manual labor outdoors, Riona prefers to wear tunics and pants that are long enough to cover her limbs.

---

Psychology

Likes:

• Music
• Art work
• Money
• Freedom

Dislikes:

• The Danrose bloodline, the King in particular
• Uncleanliness
• Wastefulness
• Unfulfilled promises

Sexuality:
Bisexual/Demiromantic

Hobbies:

• Singing
• Dancing
• Drawing
• Crafting

Life Goals/Dreams:
To get out of her current situation and find happiness.

Personality Summary:
While on duty as a housemaid, Riona is a quiet and reserved woman. She's a conscientious worker who reliably completes what is asked of her, but beyond that, she is more or less invisible to members of the Danrose family and their guests. A living doll, whose sole purpose in life is to be at the beck and call of her betters.

Once hidden from Danroses and Danrose loyalist's eyes and ears, Riona becomes much more unruly, frank, and short-tempered. With how much she must hold herself back on a daily basis dealing with stuck-up nobles, she has little patience left to deal with others' nonsense outside of her job. Had Riona abandoned all sense of responsibility, she would have left this life for another with more freedom. But she doesn't. She can't. Not because she is loyal to the Danrose family —far from it—, but because she holds onto grudges with a vice-like grip.

---

Background

Current occupation:
Maidservent

Any past occupations?:
N/A

Relatives:
Orphaned

Skills:

• Most dometic skills (such as cooking, cleaning, and sewing)
• Stealth (To be considered a good maid in the Danrose family, one must learn to be unseen, unheard, and unnoticed)
• Gardening
• Herbalism
• Scouting
• Knife and dagger proficiency
• Singing
• Drawing

History Summary:
When Riona was little, her family was killed before her very eyes. With no one else to look after her, Riona was taken in by a family acquaintance who happened to be a gardener employed by the Danroses. As she started to assist the gardener with work, she also started taking on menial tasks below stairs. This eventually led her to be officially trained and employed as a maidservant.

---

Questionnaire

Questionnaire

During the entire interview, the servant remains perfectly still, maintaining a blank expression, and only talks in a tone which makes it difficult to discern what she is really feeling.

History

Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
"The head housekeeper made sure I was trained properly." I'd say 50/50. Not completely neglected, but not really nurtured. I was actually treated pretty well for being an orphan, all things considered.

When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
"It would be highly unprofessional to abandon one's duties just because one's feelings were hurt. Such behavior should not be tolerated." There's really nowhere I can reliably go to, so I usually run to the first place I can be alone in. Even better if that somewhere has a pillow I can punch or scream into.

What were you like in your teenage years?:
"Ignoring the occasional hiccup, disciplined." A hormonal mess, which I guess is what teens are. I think I mellowed out since then... Comparatively speaking.

How close are you to your parents?:
"Not very close, considering they are no longer with us." But when they were alive? ... I hope so. I can barely remember what they looked like now.

Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
"Nothing that will impact my duties." My family and friends' death.

What advice would you give your younger self?:
"Study as hard as you can." And it doesn't change what will happen? Then nothing... Wait, no. 'Spend as much time with everyone.'

Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
"I have been, am, and forever will be, His Majesty's loyal servant." As surprising at it sounds, I think I've always been more on the obedient side, even as a little rascal. If anything, I wish I was more defiant. Like, start a revolution or something. Instead, I'm just spitting into their drinks and food when I know no one's watching.

What is your biggest regret?:
"I have no regrets. I am honored to serve His Royal Majesty." Being the lone survivor.

Romance

Have you ever been in love? :
"I am devoted to serving the royal family." Teenage love, with one of the stable boys. I even considered eloping with him. That dream ended when he was trampled to death because a couple of noble brats thought it'd be funny to scare the horses sh*tless.

What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
"A respectable, honest man who is devoted to serving Caesonia as much as I am." Someone
—anyone— who makes me feel safe. Who cares about... me, as a person. Not... as a tool.

How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
"I will have to refrain from answering such inappropriate questions." With the amount of work I have, it might be hard to spend time together... all I can give are words of affirmation and physical touch. But... the thing is... with the physical touch. I have a hard time with it sometimes. It's not that I dislike the intimacy... it's just... Well. I just need time to get comfortable with it.

Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
"Forgive me for repeating myself, but I will have to refrain from answering inappropriate questions." As much as I want to say it was with that stable boy, it wasn't. My first kiss was one of those 'practice-kisses' with one of the other maids-in-training. It was... a bumbling attempt at best.

Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
"No." No and I probably never will understand why that's even a thing. It just sounds like infatuation for how someone looks.

What does marriage mean to you?:
"The union of two families." An economic proposition? I know, it's not the least bit romantic, but really, what's it for aside from legally claiming that the other person, and their things, are also 'yours'?

Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
"No." Nope.

Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
"If circumstance allows it." Eh. I guess? Maybe? Who knows.

Personality

Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
"To have everything perfectly prepared for the family, like any other day of the week." Not having to work.

What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
"The perfect servant, one worthy to be a Lady's maid or even head housekeeper." A free person.

What bad habits do you have?:
"Some have told me that I should smile more often while on duty." I think it's this job, but I think I can get a bit too picky about stupid little things.

If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
"Absolutely nothing." Everything, if I could.

What is your greatest fear?:
"Tardiness." That nothing changes.

What are your pet peeves?:
"Imperfection." You know when something gets disorganized or dirty just when you finished organizing or cleaning it a second ago? Yeah, that. Makes me feel like I wasted my f**kingtime.

When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
"As a professional, one should know how to deal with such unproductive emotions." Alone if I'm still at work. With others, if I'm not.

Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
"Fighting is not in my job description." If the fight is not dangerous, then maybe with words. But, I'd probably be really bad at it. I always have my knife with me, so I won't hesitate to use it if things turn for the worst.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Fritz Hendrix

Fritz “Ryn” Hendrix | 29 | Male

---

Appearance

Height: 5”6’/172cm
Weight:134lb/61kg
Eye Color: Black
Hair Length/Texture: Wavy medium length hair
Hair Color: Black
Skin Color: Pale white
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): None
Distinguishing features: Ryn’s pale neotenous face can give the impression that he is frail bodied, but his physic suggests that Ryn could hold his own in a fight if it came down to it.
Clothing Preferences: Ryn has no real preferences when it comes to his attire: he is willing to wear whatever is appropriate for the situation. Whether it be absurdly extravagant or tatterdemalion. He could care less. They’re nothing more than costumes to him. For now, he has packed clothes commonly seen amongst Varian nobility.

---

Psychology

Likes:

• Various forms of art
• Adventure (or so he calls them, but they’re usually walks to random places)
• Animals
• Trying out and learning about new things

Dislikes:

• Injustice
• Licorice
• Those who shall not be named

Sexuality:
Pansexual

Hobbies:

• Playing music instruments
• Activities typically done with a group of people (especially games)
• Reading

Life Goals/Dreams:
To repay and reclaim what is due.

Personality Summary:
Ryn has made acquaintances from all walks of life throughout the years. His time as a merchant and socialite taught him how best to interact with people at different stations, how to be observant, and, above all else, how to be patient no matter how much he actually wanted to backhand the person in front of him. Though some may know Ryn differently, for the most part many consider Ryn to be an amiable, mild-mannered man; a man whose talkative nature juxtaposes his secretiveness.

---

Background

Current occupation:
Count of Erwynn (Though he still works the family buisness)

Any past occupations?:

• Merchant
• Socialite

Relatives:
According to Ryn, he has a rather large extended family, but his immediate family consists of his parents, grandparents from his father’s side, and four siblings.

Skills:

• Playing music instruments
• Skills required for trade business
• Animal whisperer
• General weapon proficiency

History Summary:
The Hendrix house rose from humble beginnings: what began as a small store near Varian borders (Erwynn) expanded into an international trading and transport company (Crosswinds Trading Co.). As their influence as merchants grew, their household was granted the title of nobility by the Varian monarch. Supposedly, all within the span of two generations. As the newly appointed Count Hendrix, Ryn hopes to continue strengthening his family’s standing.

---

Questionnaire

Questionnaire

History

1. Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
"Fortunately for me, I was well taken care of. I know it was not always easy for my family… but they did the best they could with what they had."

2. When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
"My sanctuary?" Ryn looks thoughtful for a moment, "I don’t think I had a specific place to call my sanctuary. If I got upset and sitting around wasn’t making me feel any better, I’d wonder around. Go wherever the wind took me." His eyes lightup excitiedly, "You’d be amazed what you can find out there. Why, just the other day…"

3. What were you like in your teenage years?:
"A lot of studying, working, getting into the occasional trouble now and again. You know how it can be." Ryn smiles at the interviewer, "How about you? What was your teenage years like?"

4. How close are you to your parents?:
"Very!" Ryn chuckles, "You should’ve seen them when I left home to come here. I tell you, it was quite the scene!" The smile is still there when Ryn’s eyes focus on somewhere that is not here. "Don’t tell anyone this, but I miss them a lot… I hope I get to see them again." Ryn readjusts his attention back to the interview. "Oh, I'm so sorry, please continue."

5. Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
For the first time the smile plastered onto the man’s face fades away, but he maintains a nutral expression, "There's this book I read some time ago… It's a story about a hero who sets out on a journey to defeat a demon lord that was plaguing the land. The hero ultimately defeats the demon lord like how all stories go… but by then, he had turned into a monster himself." A faint smile returns to his lips, "Childish, I know… but that ending haunts me."

6. What advice would you give your younger self?:
"Don’t touch the pudding." Ryn tries to maintain the serious expression, but soon laughs at whatever he thought was funny to him. Once the laughter died out, he changes his answer, "It’s not for nothing."

7. Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
"I would not be the man before you if I was defiant." After answering, Ryn suddenly looks contemplative, "Or maybe we’re still here because we were the most defiant? Hmm… This question turned out to be more philosophical than I anticipated. Let me think about it, I'll get back to you later."

8. What is your biggest regret?:
"Oh! My! Where to even begin!" Ryn picks up the teacup on the table in front of him. "To start off, I regret not asking what tea this is and where it is from!" He takes a sip from the cup, "Mmm, absolutely delicious! … Oh, and I also regret wearing these shoes too. They're most definitely not for traveling."

Romance

1. Have you ever been in love? :
"Of course I have! I love my family, my friends, my pets, my employees, my countrymen… I'm also in love with this tea. Really, where is this from?" A small smile replaces the larger one, "But that's not the type of love you are referring to, is it?" Ryn turns to look at something else as he leans back in his chair. "I was busy a lot of the time, so I've never had the pleasure." His gaze turns to the interviewer, "Have you? If the rumors are to be believed, they say it's a painfully delightful feeling."

2. What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
"As long as we can enjoy each other's company… and respect one another, I couldn't ask for more."

3. How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
"As I've mentioned, I've never been in love, so it's hard to say… Spending time together, perhaps? Speaking of love language, did you know there's five of them? Who knew there are people out there who studied the subject so extensively to be able to make such a list."

4. Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
"If I'm being perfectly honest, it would probably be my mother when I was wee babe. Unfortunetly, I don't quite remember what it felt like. Sorry."

5. Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
"Oh, come on, why not? I think it's adorable."

6. What does marriage mean to you?:
"Worst case scienerio, a means to an end. Ideally… something you never regret doing. A… happy ending."

7. Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
Ryn raises his tea cup and stares at it longingly as he whispers softly to it, "You'll be mine one day… and I'm going to buy a whole bulk. Just you wait." The man sneaks a glance up at the interviewer to see if his joke landed, then he breaks into a full smile.

8. Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
It takes a surprising long time for Ryn to answer the simple question. "If… no, when, when I've accomlplished what I set out to do… and if I am still the same person… then yes."

Personality

1. Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
"Oh, what I'd do to just sleep in…" Ryn sighs.

2. What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
Ryn hesitates for a moment, "I… want to be a leader. One that actually takes good care of their people. To create a place where everyone feels safe… and everyone has the right to be happy."

3. What bad habits do you have?:
"You know? The two most complaints I've received are that 1.) I can sometimes go off on a tangent and it's hard to get me back on track and 2.) That I can be stand-offish sometimes. Do you think it's true?"

4. If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
Ryn's first response is barely audible, "Nothing from my past…" When asked to repeat the answer he says, "To not touch the pudding."

5. What is your greatest fear?:
"Aside from failing my family?… Becoming what I hate most."

6. What are your pet peeves?:
Ryn raises one of his hands to his face and presses a finger against his lips. He only smiles.

7. When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
"It would depend on why I'm in a sour mood, but playing with animals never fails to cheer me up!"

8. Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
"Imagine! Me? Fighting with my fists? Ha! … I suspect our family business would have looked very different if I did that. Although… I'm not above admitting that I've been tempted." Ryn winks. "But to answer your question properly, I am more likely to fight with my tongue. My tangents can last longer than any fistfight."

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

The Smiling Count

Fritz “Ryn” Hendrix | 29 | Male

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Appearance

Height: 5”6’/172cm
Weight:134lb/61kg
Eye Color: Black
Hair Length/Texture: Wavy medium length hair
Hair Color: Black
Skin Color: Pale white
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): None
Distinguishing features: Ryn’s pale neotenous face can give the impression that he is frail bodied, but his physic suggests that Ryn could hold his own in a fight if it came down to it.
Clothing Preferences: Ryn has no real preferences when it comes to his attire: he is willing to wear whatever is appropriate for the situation. Whether it be absurdly extravagant or tatterdemalion. He could care less. They’re nothing more than costumes to him. For now, he has packed clothes commonly seen amongst Varian nobility.

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Psychology

Likes:

• Various forms of art
• Adventure (or so he calls them, but they’re usually walks to random places)
• Animals
• Trying out and learning about new things

Dislikes:

• Injustice
• Licorice
• Those who shall not be named

Sexuality:
Pansexual

Hobbies:

• Playing music instruments
• Activities typically done with a group of people (especially games)
• Reading

Life Goals/Dreams:
To repay and reclaim what is due.

Personality Summary:
Ryn has made acquaintances from all walks of life throughout the years. His time as a merchant and socialite taught him how best to interact with people at different stations, how to be observant, and, above all else, how to be patient no matter how much he actually wanted to backhand the person in front of him. Though some may know Ryn differently, for the most part many consider Ryn to be an amiable, mild-mannered man; a man whose talkative nature juxtaposes his secretiveness.

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Background

Current occupation:
Count (Though he still works the family buisness)

Any past occupations?:

• Merchant
• Socialite

Relatives:
According to Ryn, he has a rather large extended family, but his immediate family consists of his parents, grandparents from his father’s side, and four siblings.

Skills:

• Playing music instruments
• Skills required for trade business
• Animal whisperer
• General weapon proficiency

History Summary:
The Hendrix house rose from humble beginnings: what began as a small store near Varian borders expanded into an international trading and transport company. As their influence as merchants grew, their household was granted the title of nobility by the Varian monarch. Supposedly, all within the span of two generations. As the newly appointed Count Hendrix, Ryn hopes to continue strengthening his family’s standing.

---

Questionnaire

Questionnaire

History

1. Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
"Fortunately for me, I was well taken care of. I know it was not always easy for my family… but they did the best they could with what they had."

2. When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
"My sanctuary?" Ryn looks thoughtful for a moment, "I don’t think I had a specific place to call my sanctuary. If I got upset and sitting around wasn’t making me feel any better, I’d wonder around. Go wherever the wind took me." His eyes lightup excitiedly, "You’d be amazed what you can find out there. Why, just the other day…"

3. What were you like in your teenage years?:
"A lot of studying, working, getting into the occasional trouble now and again. You know how it can be." Ryn smiles at the interviewer, "How about you? What was your teenage years like?"

4. How close are you to your parents?:
"Very!" Ryn chuckles, "You should’ve seen them when I left home to come here. I tell you, it was quite the scene!" The smile is still there when Ryn’s eyes focus on somewhere that is not here. "Don’t tell anyone this, but I miss them a lot… I hope I get to see them again." Ryn readjusts his attention back to the interview. "Oh, I'm so sorry, please continue."

5. Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
For the first time the smile plastered onto the man’s face fades away, but he maintains a nutral expression, "There's this book I read some time ago… It's a story about a hero who sets out on a journey to defeat a demon lord that was plaguing the land. The hero ultimately defeats the demon lord like how all stories go… but by then, he had turned into a monster himself." A faint smile returns to his lips, "Childish, I know… but that ending haunts me."

6. What advice would you give your younger self?:
"Don’t touch the pudding." Ryn tries to maintain the serious expression, but soon laughs at whatever he thought was funny to him. Once the laughter died out, he changes his answer, "It’s not for nothing."

7. Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
"I would not be the man before you if I was defiant." After answering, Ryn suddenly looks contemplative, "Or maybe we’re still here because we were the most defiant? Hmm… This question turned out to be more philosophical than I anticipated. Let me think about it, I'll get back to you later."

8. What is your biggest regret?:
"Oh! My! Where to even begin!" Ryn picks up the teacup on the table in front of him. "To start off, I regret not asking what tea this is and where it is from!" He takes a sip from the cup, "Mmm, absolutely delicious! … Oh, and I also regret wearing these shoes too. They're most definitely not for traveling."

Romance

1. Have you ever been in love? :
"Of course I have! I love my family, my friends, my pets, my employees, my countrymen… I'm also in love with this tea. Really, where is this from?" A small smile replaces the larger one, "But that's not the type of love you are referring to, is it?" Ryn turns to look at something else as he leans back in his chair. "I was busy a lot of the time, so I've never had the pleasure." His gaze turns to the interviewer, "Have you? If the rumors are to be believed, they say it's a painfully delightful feeling."

2. What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
"As long as we can enjoy each other's company… and respect one another, I couldn't ask for more."

3. How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
"As I've mentioned, I've never been in love, so it's hard to say… Spending time together, perhaps? Speaking of love language, did you know there's five of them? Who knew there are people out there who studied the subject so extensively to be able to make such a list."

4. Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
"If I'm being perfectly honest, it would probably be my mother when I was wee babe. Unfortunetly, I don't quite remember what it felt like. Sorry."

5. Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
"Oh, come on, why not? I think it's adorable."

6. What does marriage mean to you?:
"Worst case scienerio, a means to an end. Ideally… something you never regret doing. A… happy ending."

7. Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
Ryn raises his tea cup and stares at it longingly as he whispers softly to it, "You'll be mine one day… and I'm going to buy a whole bulk. Just you wait." The man sneaks a glance up at the interviewer to see if his joke landed, then he breaks into a full smile.

8. Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
It takes a surprising long time for Ryn to answer the simple question. "If… no, when, when I've accomlplished what I set out to do… and if I am still the same person… then yes."

Personality

1. Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
"Oh, what I'd do to just sleep in…" Ryn sighs.

2. What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
Ryn hesitates for a moment, "I… want to be a leader. One that actually takes good care of their people. To create a place where everyone feels safe… and everyone has the right to be happy."

3. What bad habits do you have?:
"You know? The two most complaints I've received are that 1.) I can sometimes go off on a tangent and it's hard to get me back on track and 2.) That I can be stand-offish sometimes. Do you think it's true?"

4. If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
Ryn's first response is barely audible, "Nothing from my past…" When asked to repeat the answer he says, "To not touch the pudding."

5. What is your greatest fear?:
"Aside from failing my family?… Becoming what I hate most."

6. What are your pet peeves?:
Ryn raises one of his hands to his face and presses a finger against his lips. He only smiles.

7. When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
"It would depend on why I'm in a sour mood, but playing with animals never fails to cheer me up!"

8. Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
"Imagine! Me? Fighting with my fists? Ha! … I suspect our family business would have looked very different if I did that. Although… I'm not above admitting that I've been tempted." Ryn winks. "But to answer your question properly, I am more likely to fight with my tongue. My tangents can last longer than any fistfight."

Dark Dagger

Yeah... But not much we can do without the GM. It seems like she logs-in every now and then, it's just she's been very quiet. Hopefully she's doing ok.

Well! If it is indeed the end, I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Maybe we'll bump into each other again :)

Dark Dagger

Anyone hear from @pinkkoala321 recently?

Dark Dagger

I'm guessing @pinkkoala321 is busy at the moment?

Dark Dagger

All is well on my end! It's just hurricane/typhoon/cyclone season where I am so... that's a lot of fun :P