Lava Alckon

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Port Vanarosa
Mentions: Ismael @Th3King0fChaos and Odds and Ends Shop @princess

Equipment

320 amas, Red-hilted dagger, Leather armor, compass, fancy spyglass, and a cloak

Tanithil watched with interest while the human's shape seemed to turn, twist, and shimmer to meet the mental image Ismael had in mind. Much to his disappointment it was simply another form of human. His shorter black hair was a different touch and the scars along his face seemed to have faded. Did humans always have ears this big? He couldn't tell just what may be wonky immediately, but his best guess would be that his ears seemed about twice as big as they were before. He snorted a little and let Ismael eye up his image in the mirror.

"Don't think we really got much of a choice for ya considerin' that's the only one in town. Should be good enough if you choose an actual elven disguise, big guy." He turned and made sure all the amas were in order, sliding an extra 20 to the shopkeep with a serious expression. "Oh by the way. We were never here." With that he grabbed his two items, pat Ismael on the back, and began to walk with him out the door. "Seriously though. Either you become an elf or the hood should go back on on." He said with a hushed tone as they made their way out the door, letting Ismael decide which form to take.

With the shopping done Tanithil would guide Ismael from that particular stretch of town to a few back alley shortcuts he knew. "Normally I'd show you around but I'm still wary of some wandering eye catching us in public and crying wolf." Walking down the alleyway was rather quiet, not too much trouble would typically surface so long as you moved quick and fast. But today it seemed the two were not quick enough. A single figure stepped into the middle of the pathway Tanithil and Ismael began to walk. The normal casual posture Tanithil had stopped as he straightened his back and put a hand out in front of Ismael to stop any forward progress. A deafening silence seemed to fill the air as the man and Tanithil stared daggers into each other. Finally the man stepped out, revealing himself to be another dark elf who spoke in a slightly gruff voice.

"This is our town, scrub!"

Almost immediately another higher pitched voice rang out from behind them. "Yeah, beat it!"

Two more figures approached from the left and right, surrounding the pair on all sides. Each person stood about 10 feet away from Tanithil and Ismael in either direction. To their front, a dark elf man. Behind them, a small fairy with a nasty scar under his eye. To their left, another dark elf who seemed short yet packed with muscle. Finally, to their right was an orc who stood taller than everyone there.

"On second thought. Why don't ya empty ya pockets and come along real quiet like so we can use ya for some fun in the fighting pits, eh?"

The orc spoke up. "Doubt they'd make more than a dozen amas. The one elf's real scrawny. The other ones got a bit of meat on 'im but doesn't look like much."

The dark elf, presumably the head of this bunch, snapped at the orc. "I don't fuckin pay you to consult and analyze our prey, dip-stick! I pay you for muscle. Now go fucking crush those twerps!"

"Right on." The orc's voice bellowed as he began to approach the two.

Tanithil's hand stayed near Ismael, the other moving in an instant to conjure a shadow-tinted blunderbuss, prompting the thugs to stop their advance for a moment. "Woah there cowboys. I'm gonna need you all to slow your roll and realize who you're dealin' with. Lest you want a hole in each of your stomachs I think the best course of action would be to let us on through. I won't ask twice." He then pulled the hammer on his conjured gun and aimed it at the orc.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Farim & Anastasia

Location: Outside Alidasht Guest House
Time: 7pm
Mentions: Anastasia @princess and Leo @Helo

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Farim wandered back towards the guest house, almost lost in thought over the proceedings of the night. His confrontation with Mayet, then the Sultan’s summons, Charlotte investigating the party from the other night. A lot seemed to be happening all at once that his mental energy simply seemed to be at an all time low. He let out a long sigh as he pulled his gaze from the stone road to the sight of Anastasia and another gentleman he believed to be called Lord Leo. But it seemed he caught the end of their conversation, being just out of earshot as he saw the man begin to head inside. He felt his lips curl into an almost involuntary smile while his attention moved to Anastasia. His walking pace sped up to a brisk stride before he stood behind her, not trying to be loud but not necessarily being super quiet either.

”Well well well if it isn’t the star of my day. You certainly have a way of brightening up a rather sour evening, Princess. Have time in your busy day to talk to a friendly foreign noble?” He would chuckle and place his hands across his chest in a casual stance. ”If so, perhaps you would like to share how the rest of your day went after our fateful little meeting?”

Anastasia’s eyes, a shade of amber, lit up with excitement as she twirled around to face her new friend. “Farim!” She closed the distance and enveloped him in a brief hug. “I was so hoping we’d get to talk. My day was okay after that I guess… I went home and got some sleep after what happened.”

The air in his lungs escaped as her arms wrapped around. He let out an audible ”Oof!” but quickly returned the hug. ”I am glad we can be seeing each other again so soon! Thara must’ve been good company if you were giving her treats. She did not make a mess did she?”

“Yes! She was such a good girl. We’re totally best buds now.” She replied excitedly.

He smiled happily as he continued to hold the hug between them. ”Yes I rather do love that bird. I’m glad she had been good company. I must say, you certainly missed quite a lot before your grand entrance.” He leaned back to look into her eyes with a bit of a bashful expression. ”I may or may not have made one of my cousins mad enough to never want to speak to me again…”

“Really?” She looked up and frowned, “What happened?”

He wanted to choose his next words carefully. Slander would get him nowhere and exaggeration would only make things worse. ”There was a disagreement at the table to say the least. My cousin was saying things I simply did not agree with so I stood up and said my piece. It resulted in a very unhappy Mayet storming out of the room and renouncing all ties with me.” He would sigh and shrug. ”Seems like I still have much to learn in the ways of the diplomat.”

A look of disbelief flickered across Anastasia's face, her voice laced with shock, “Oh gosh… How could she do that over one disagreement? … Ah nevermind, I guess we know I kinda know how you feel today...” Anastasia took a moment to gather her thoughts, allowing empathy to guide her response. As she looked up at him, her gaze filled with genuine kindness, she offered words of reassurance. “ I am sure you did a great job. Sometimes people just have miscommunications. You seem nice and well-spoken to me.”

Farim would smile and return the kind gaze that her eyes gave him. ”Thank you. You are just as talented. The room was rather dull until you came in. As I’m sure you can guess the argument happened shortly before your arrival. But it’s good you’re here. Now I can say my day ended on a high note seeing you again.” He grinned and winked briefly at her as his body and mind began to settle. It really had been a taxing night yet somehow this woman he never met before just seemed to calm and settle his nerves without lifting a finger.

“Yeah everyone seemed super tired and weird. “ Anastasia admitted. His next comment did manage to pull a smile out of her and she gave him a wink back. “I wanna say that too buuuut my day’s not over yet. Talking to you would be a fantastic way to end my day though.” She audibly groaned as her arms slipped off him, reminded of her next task. She threw her head back and glared at the sky as if it were the source of her problems, telling him, “After I’m done here, I gotta go talk to mister party-host and ask him what the heck happened. “

Farim’s hands moved onto his hips as she pulled away, he secretly wished they could just sit there hugging warmly to fight against the slight evening chill. But he settled for this moment and felt his face tighten slightly at the mention of this party host. ”Well truthfully I do need to see my Uncle and Hafiz within the hour. Likely about this dinner. As for the party host….if they’re bold enough to pull the stunts they did before they may try to do other things. Will you be okay going alone?” He had a gut feeling about such a thing. Late night meetings with morally gray people hardly ever go well.

“Oh geez. Good luck with that… As for me, I hope so. Wulfric and Leo seemed worried about my safety and now you do too now. “ A small amount of fear crossed her expression as she spoke, “ I thought I’d feel fine going to see him but now I’m getting a little nervous since everyone else seems so spooked.. My brother’s making me bring guards so I don’t know if the guy will even let me talk to him honestly.” Anastasia then straightened her neck to look at him and smile, “But I promised Callum. I wanna prove to him that I care and I’m trying.”

So he hosts secret parties, potentially uses drugs on whoever attends unwillingly, won’t meet if guards are involved. Yeah this guy is bad news. But Anastasia says he is a friend, perhaps he is misunderstood? Either way. Caution is best. His thoughtful gaze would likely seem to look almost through her for a moment before he blinked himself back to reality. ”I don’t mean to alarm you. I just would like to help. Do you want a less conventional guard? I can always have Thara fly around again.” His tone was more calm, and suggested a more agreeable mood rather than one that outright disagreed with her questionable nightime excursion.

Her expression had mildly lit up for a brief moment. “Oh, no that’s okay. I don’t want Thara to get lost or hurt. I’ll be fine... What’s the worst that could happen?” She shrugged and gave him an even bigger smile, her tone lighthearted as she assured him “ I’ll just wear one of my cloaks so no one notices that I’m a cute princess wandering the streets in the dark of the night.”

Her smile was quite infectious, prompting him to grin slightly at the sneaky adventures of Annie. ”Oh you are certainly a fun person, princess. But if you find yourself in trouble my door is always open.” He gestured towards the guest house and with a bit of a chuckle he spoke again. ”I will be wanting to know if you are safe so, would you perhaps like toooo meet again tomorrow?” His voice teetered for a moment as a small bump of shyness hit his throat. He quickly staved it off and resumed his friendly expression.

“Of course!” Anastasia answered immediately and joyfully.

He clapped his hands together with a quick sharp breath annunciating his excitement. ”Amazing! Where and when would you like go?”

Her eyes brightened and she closed the distance between them to take his hands, “ Let’s go do whatever’s fun tomorrow night! I’ll come to your room tomorrow and we can look at the newspaper together!” She exclaimed excitedly.

”It’s a date then!” He slyly stated. He may be acting a bit bold but he also wanted to see how she’d react to stating such a thing. ”I’ll make sure to be on the lookout for you then.” He glanced up for a moment at the moon rising in the night sky. He let out a slow breath before returning his eyes to look into hers. ”I think it might be time for us to end our fateful meeting, sadly.” He didn’t necessarily want to rush her, but keeping the Sultan waiting would be bad news.

Surprise had filled Anastasia’s eyes. She had then felt a mixture of happiness and fear at the same time. After a slight hesitation, she smiled at him, “...Yeah! Let’s do it!” She responded happily. Anastasia held her hands together then nodded, “Sure. I’ll see you tomorrow then, Farim. Stay safe!”

Farim noticed the slight pause, but her joyful smile simply wiped away his suspicions. As she went to say goodbye however, he reached out and gently held her hand, taking a few steps forward and giving her a strong yet caring embrace. ”The one who should be staying safe tonight is you, dear Annie. I will see you tomorrow. But until then, may the Sun Gods light your way.” He would hold the hug as long as she’d want before letting her run off to wherever she needed to be. He couldn’t help but worry, but he silently prayed to the Sun Gods to watch over her.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Drake

Attire: Coat/Shirt, Trousers/Coat-tails, and Boots
Time: 7pm
Location: Sorian Park -> Edwards Estate
Mentions: Ariella Edwards @Tpartywithzombi,
Interactions: Victoria and Gideon Edwards @princess

---

With the delivery of his letter gone off without much of a hitch, Drake had resumed his leisurely stroll through the city. There wasn't much to observe or think about as he made the steps across the smooth pathways. It was, for once, a rather calm evening for him, and he felt rather pleased with how things were going. Of course he had his anxieties over how Princess Camilia would take his letter, and wondered if perhaps the others present would get a peak at it. He gave himself a mild shrug, as a man who can’t pronounce his feelings in front of an audience shouldn’t be doing things like sending love letters. He continued his walking pace, daydreaming about what he could possibly have in store for himself tomorrow. A daydream that would come to a quick halt as he approached the front of his estate.

The most obvious thing would be Gideon and Victoria Edwards standing at the doorway, as if ready for his arrival. He wondered if he had forgotten something as their serious expressions seemed to dictate. Drake thought to himself for several moments as he slowly approached them, keeping his calm as best he could before addressing them. ”Mother. Father. I am glad to be so well received on my return home but it seems something is amiss. What is it that troubles you both tonight?”

"Yes, something is amiss, Drake," Victoria greeted him with a disdainful tone. The Duchess's gown shimmered under the chandelier as her eyes bore down at her son from the top of the staircase. She slowly descended, her every movement exuding an air of haughtiness and superiority. Eventually, she came to a stop before him, her flowery perfume overpowering the air.

"Unfortunately for you, you'll be going straight back out," she declared with a dismissive wave of her hand. With a grimace, she suddenly began straightening the collar of Drake’s shirt.

“What your mother means to say,” The red-haired Duke of Sorian finally emerged from the side, he himself also adorned in the most luxurious of clothing. With a warm smile greeting Drake, he displayed a reassuring demeanor despite the concern lining his face. Placing a firm yet comforting hand on his son's shoulder, he spoke with an unwavering resolve."We need you to go back out tonight, my son... I apologize for the inconvenience. Rest assured, I can arrange for guards to accompany you, if necessary... However, there is a pressing matter involving your sister, Ariella, that requires our immediate attention." he explained calmly, “We need you bring her home.”

"...I swear if she’s barefoot in the woods again…” Victoria’s grumble could be heard behind them.

Drake took in the words calmly as he could but felt his mother’s blatant attitude to be a touch drastic for simply requesting an audience with his sister. He furrowed his brows as she adjusted his collar and made his own rudimentary adjustments after the fact. ”Walks on the town are no inconvenience to me. The fresh night air does wonders for a stressed mind.” He made a motion for a nearby servant and calmly requested for him to bring a carriage around to the front of the house.

”Last I heard she was to attend the Alidasht dinner party with one of the Shehzade royalty. Surely this fuss isn’t over one of her retreats into the woods?” His tone was slight disbelief mixed with curiosity as he wondered just what his parents, or most likely the Duchess herself, would be so animated about.

" It’s exactly that, but worse.” Victoria told him, patting his collar down until it was perfect, "She was seen sneaking with a man into the woods and it won’t be long until rumors run amuck… Do you know how hard I work to make sure everyone thinks well of us? …It’s like she doesn’t have any empathy for me.” She vented, clearly vexed over this. " Anyways, we were able to find out where she’s been going and we had the area searched-”

“Some concerning items were found.” Gideon added curtly, “Some that could suggest she might be involved with the occult. We want to conversate and shut down these rumors as fast as possible for the sake of her wellbeing,”

" And especially mine.”

“Right, of course, my darling Victoria. We all care deeply for the stress this is causing you.” He took his wife’s palm and kissed the back of her palm. She relaxed a little, though, she still yanked her hand away from him. “Drake, please bring her home as soon as possible.. I’d send our staff but I fear she may resist them.”

”Yes Mother I am sure this event is rather stressfu-Come again?” Drake stopped mid sentence after the mention of occult items. He rubbed his jawline with his fingers for a moment as he was truly perplexed by the notion. This must be a misunderstanding. But it is still best to just do as they want for now.

The carriage had begun to turn around the building, prompting Drake to talk once more to his parents. ”I shall see to it. No need to send any guards after me. I have a very persuasive word and an even more persuasive…method should I run into any trouble.” It wasn’t really a secret that Drake kept a flintlock pistol on hand but he figured he should subtly allude to it for his father’s sake of mind. ”Perhaps mother could use a glass of her finest champagne to ease the mind. And before you say something, dear Mother, no you are not suddenly growing crow’s feet and gray hairs.” He turned to walk out the door, holding it open with one hand as he turned to look at them once more. ”Anything else before I take my leave?”

They both shook their heads, though Victoria did not seem happy about his suggestion and was glaring at him.

Sensing her distaste Drake decided to add. ”Oh, come now. It was merely a quip to try and lighten the mood. In all due seriousness I shall get her back shortly.” He walked to the carriage and shut the door, finally adjusting his collar back to his preferred position.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Charlotte & Farim

Location: Alidasht Guest House
Time: 7pm
Mentions: Charlotte @princess, Munir @Infinite Cosmos, Lorenzo @FunnyGuy

---

Farim had been looking rather grim at the moment. The servant came by and refilled his wine in due haste, prompting a short nod from the young Shehzadi. He took a sip before a sudden rush of wind hit the room, as the woman he met earlier had arrived for dinner after all. She had gone through a few introductions, and then approached Farim. He watched every step of hers with a new intrigued look. What was first pessimism on his face began to warp into a more joyful expression, if only slightly. But he knew that with her, came another familiar friend. He smiled wide as she brought his lovely bird back to him. His heart began to soften at the sight of his loyal companion. He immediately allowed her to hop into his lap, his hand cupping for her head to naturally fit for a gentle pet. Thara happily rubbed her head along Farim’s palm before looking around the room to investigate the many new and familiar faces she now saw. A soft coo came from her beak as Farim continued to pet her.

”I am ever grateful. This is just what I needed to turn the night around, dear Princess.” Her soft words and positive personality certainly had an effect on him. He could tell Thara had been well kept and she seemed rather content. For this he was grateful. His shoulder could feel the slight rub, and to further seal the deal he reached up to take her hand and give it a soft kiss along her knuckle. With a grin he looked up to her and nodded. ”I will make sure to hold you to that, my friend.” She was then off to interact and mingle with the other dinner guests as she pleased.

Farim looked at his bird and with a less dignified voice he would softly ask. ”Were you on your best behavior?” Thara could only tilt her head in mild confusion since she obviously couldn’t reply, yet Farim knew that his lovely falcon would never do anything bad unless severely prompted. He gave the underside of her chin a scratch and stood up, placing Thara onto his shoulder before giving a slight bow to the Sultan. ”I shall excuse myself for the time being, Your Radiance. Despite the chaos that came, I am still glad to be seeing all of you in good health. It truly has been far too long since I have visited home.”

He then turned and walked from the room and to his bedroom where he would place Thara onto her perch and give her a fresh bowl of water to drink from should she find herself thirsty. ”I shall return. I must go mingle with the guests and see how our friend Ariella would like to end her evening.” He spoke aloud to the falcon before giving a soft expression that became somewhat of a frown. ”You have missed a lot, dear Thara. I shall key you in later. But for now, enjoy some well deserved rest!” He then walked out of his bedroom to see the dark-haired woman from the table, Charlotte, leaving his cousin's room looking somewhat perplexed.

”Why hello there, Lady Vikena. Is there something the matter?” He seemed rather puzzled and somewhat curious as to why she would be leaving Munir’s bedroom. Frankly he was surprised she wasn’t half-clothed with his reputation.

Charlotte paused in her step and smiled at him in greeting.. She seemed as she had in the dining room, except her hair had been now let down, framing her face. ”Oh, hello Shahzade Farim.” She greeted, “No, nothing’s the matter… But I was actually looking for you. Think you could spare a moment to talk with me?”

He offered a pleasant smile, and turned to face her, his attention now fully caught as she seemed to be asking a few of his family questions. His curiosity was piqued, to say the least. ”Of course! And by the way, I am truly sorry for how some things came by tonight. We can be a bit…passionate at our family gatherings. But rest assured I don’t believe anyone actually wishes ill will on you or your family.” After the display that had happened he figured it would be best to calm her nerves about any potential dangers she may be concerned with.

Charlotte sucked in her lips, nodding awkwardly. She somehow had some doubt regarding the last statement. After a moment, she smiled once more, “I should actually thank you really for protecting my stepfather. You were brave to stand up for him like that, though I’m very sorry it caused such strife between you and your cousin…I’ll just say your good intentions were understood by the rest of us. ”

He raised his hand as if to wave off any worries she may have had for him. ”It is of no worry, Charlotte. If a wall is felled by a single blow, then it wasn’t a very strong wall to begin with.” He sighed in reconciliation for the potential lost connection. ”I thank you for your kindness all the same. But alas you are here to be asking me something. What plagues your mind, young mistress?”

“I understand…” Charlotte wanted to give him words of reassurance, but she wasn’t sure if that relationship had been worth saving. She fiddled with a strand of hair, twirling it with her finger. The conversation topic hadn’t gone all too well with Munir, but at least this man was keeping his shirt on thus far. “Well…" She drew off with some hesitancy, “I wanted to ask you about the party you attended last night if that’s alright with you.”

Farim’s eyes shifted off to the side for a moment, as if to gleam if anyone else may be present. He crossed his arms and let out a brief puff of air as he tried to remember just what it was that happened the other night. Nothing but flashes of images and thoughts, like a dream that you couldn’t quite catch. ”Ahh…it still eludes me now, but I shall help you as much as I can. What is it you are wanting to know?”

She nodded gratefully to him and asked, “Can we start with what happened leading up to the party please?”

Farim pondered himself for a moment and thought back to the events leading up to it, and began to speak his thoughts as soon as they came to him. ”Yes. I remember coming home from a long night of traveling. I had just gotten here well after all of my siblings and found my dear friend Saiya waiting for me. Naturally I was elated to see her and her…cough attire for the evening.” Farim couldn’t help but smirk at the rather revealing dress his friend had on. ”Forgive me. As a man I can hardly contain myself when a beautiful lady wears such fine dresses or robes.” He shot her a friendly wink before continuing.

Charlotte had nodded along with each statement as if she was making a mental note, but she was uncertain why he had decided this information had been relevant. She then paused her nodding to digest the last statement as well as his wink. Eh? She glanced at him then down at her dress for a few seconds, only glancing up again once he continued.

”Right but, I had went with her in a carriage to a warehouse ... .somewhere in the more lower class area of the city I surmise. Definitely outside the castle walls. We went down into some basement area and that’s about where my memories begin to falter. I can catch glimpses, like there being a fight, dancing, and many people practically drooling over one another. But it isn’t anything you wouldn’t normally see at any secret party.” He stopped his story to give her a moment to respond.

She paid sharp attention as the information was much more important. Charlotte hung on every word with a determined expression, her eyes slightly narrowed. A warehouse basement. There was a fight, dancing… Suddenly she looked at him with peaked interest and a sudden glimmer of hope in her gaze, “...Do you remember the warehouse number?” The warehouses were right by her house along a few side streets. She could just simply sneak over there and check them out.

He took notice of her initial reaction and placed both hands up, feigning an apologetic stance. ”I am sorry if that was too much. I was simply looking to compliment, not offend. I promise I will not try anything like my dear cousin.” He snickered for a moment before adding a little quip. ”Unless of course that is the real goal here.” He let loose a slight chuckle before returning to a perplexed and thought-filled expression. He tapped his chin and began to sound out some words he had remembered seeing scrawled on some parchment. He rubbed his temples as if to physically bring the memory out of him ”There was an invitation ... .something about a…420 wicker street? Gods above why is this so hard to remember. I normally can stomach more than just a few shots. I couldn’t have even been there for more than an hour or two before we were all rushed out…” He trailed off as he continued thinking of the strange night he had at the party.

Charlotte shook her head at his concern, deciding to assure him. “It simply… took me by surprise. I appreciate the compliment. I’m just not all too used to them.” She told him and smiled to ease his concern “420 Wicker Street. Hm. I’ve never heard of that street.” She then paused thoughtfully before inquiring, “ …Do you remember anything that happened afterwards?”

”Well that is reassuring to hear. I’m shocked you don’t get many compliments. You are a fine looking woman!” He took a moment to glance up and down at her once more as if to further check his previous statement. ”And as for the after. I just remember feeling rather awful and lots of noise. People storming in, taking the royal children out as if they were blackout drunks. But from what I heard most people did not drink that much. It’s…rather strange, don’t you think?”

Charlotte tried to play off her blush by looking around as if the hallway had grown very interesting, “Oh well… I guess.. I mean, not that I’m conceited or anything…I just appreciate you saying so.” She found it hard not to cringe at herself in that moment. She quickly added to her statement with a more forced smile this time as to clean up the mess. “Thank you. You’re a very lovely looking man yourself, Farim… And yes, your cousin said he knows his limits as well yet had somehow blacked out.”

Farim found her innocent reactions rather adorable, if he was being honest. He shared a similar interest in the wall around her as he gave a slight jab. ”I did not think you were, Charlotte. I also agree that the wall there is rather well made. I think it’s mahogany!” He let out a slight puff of air that resembled a chuckle. ”Those are some sweet words, mistress and I thank you for flattering me. After interacting with you here and seeing you at the dinner I think I am beginning to understand my cousins’...fondness of you.” He leaned back against the wall, arms crossed while his gaze continued to examine her, as if to gauge what more she may hold or tell with her body language.

She raised a brow at his initial words, wondering if he was poking fun at her. Even worse, the man seemed to be examining her as if she was performing an entertaining show of some kind by simply standing there. These Alidasht men are a little bizarre…Though I suppose perhaps the women were too…

“See something you like?” Charlotte asked finally, her tone somewhat amused and somewhat not. She had kept up a polite smile, though it was obvious she had dropped her formality. Granted, her current state of exhaustion and less-than-perfect sobriety may have influenced her impulsive remark. “We could find a photographer perhaps.”

All Farim could do was raise his eyebrow at the remark. His shoulders lowered and his body relaxed a little more as he motioned towards his temple with his finger. With a few quick taps and a friendly smile he gave her a retort. ”No need, mistress. The world’s best camera is right here.” With a mimicking motion he blinked his eyes and pretended to work a camera, as if to quite literally ‘take a picture’. ”I’d say I rather enjoy the view right now. Do you enjoy what you see, madam?” He gestured down towards his own robes and body as if to show himself off to the woman despite maintaining a relaxed posture.

Her gaze instinctively followed his gesture and she pulled her eyes up with some frustration. “Is it commonplace for men in the Alidasht to be so quick to flaunt their body to women?” She asked. The dark-haired woman tapped her foot, folding her own arms. “Just curious.” She added, her smile tight-lipped. Charlotte’s thoughts returned back to the rumors she had read this morning. She couldn’t help but also tell him, “Also, you need not refer to me as mistress.”

Farim took note of the reaction, as she seemed to be growing somewhat displeased with his words he resumed his casual lean against the wall, hands now placed at his hips as he gave her a straight-faced answer to her question with a slight shrug at the start. ”Somewhat. My countrymen and women know life is fleeting so we like to live dangerously. On the edge, some would say. I know it is not for all, so that is why I like to gauge people’s limits at the outset. I will do my best to not push yours too much, Charlotte.” He added some emphasis there, not to sound mean or sarcastic, but simply as a sign of respect to the woman who had clearly been through alot. ”I know you’ve had a long day. I apologize if my words upset you all the same. What else are you curious to know about either my country, its people, myself, or that particular night? I am a rather open book right now.”

“...It certainly is fleeting.”Charlotte mused after an initial silence, her tone carrying a hint of melancholy. After giving her own arm a comforting rub, she said, “I apologize too… I normally hold more restraint with my tone. I am not certain I have too much time tonight as my father is waiting in the carriage for me, however I’d be open to talking to you again so you can tell me all about yourself and the Alidasht. I’d love to hear everything about it…” She drew off before she moved up to him and gently took his hand in hers. Charlotte raised their clasped hands between them so she could place her other hand on top in a compassionate gesture. With a warm smile this time, she told him, “I wanted to also let you know that you’re never alone… There will always be someone who cares.”

Farim’s own expression seemed to lessen at the thought of fleeting life. He knew it may not be what everyone liked to hear, but it was in essence the truth. He met her initial words with a friendly joy-filled smile as he straightened himself off the wall. What she did next certainly had him thinking for words as she took his hand and held it warmly for those few moments.He felt his hand smothered between the soft, delicate, and warm feeling of hers. Then she went and said something that he entirely didn’t expect. He stood with a shocked look on his face, thinking of some words to respond before finally collecting his cool. His eyes met hers and with a truly friendly and genuine smile he softly spoke. ”Thank you. I believe those are words we don’t often hear. I will happily talk with you again. I shan’t keep your father waiting. I hope he hasn’t eaten all of our naan in the meantime.” He couldn’t help but giggle at the slight poke, but he had felt just a little more relieved as the night had been going on.

Charlotte let go of his hands and managed a giggle at his words. “Ahh. I might be the one to do that actually... I really like bread.” She confessed then bowed her head as a means to bid him adieu, “Thank you as well, Farim. Hope you enjoy the rest of your evening.”

Farim gave Charlotte a kind bow with a courteous ”You as well, Lady Charlotte.” before proceeding to walk to the Sultan’s chambers. He had a mixed feeling about what would happen there, but he obviously couldn’t simply ignore His Radiance. Even though He might be there…

Avalia

Bardulf

Time: Morning
Location: Southwest of Roshmi City
Interaction: Brigitte @Tae, Mister Luum @FunnyGuy, Rue @Potter, Bowyn @Helo, and Zeva @Pink Khione

---

Bardulf continued walking along the path, for once not really looking where he was going or thinking of his surroundings. All of his focus was entirely internal as he fought a draining battle with the suddenly loud conscious inside him.

CARVE THE MEAT. CLAIM YOUR KILL.
It wasn't even mine. Mister Luum finished it off, and the group did it together.
WE CREATED THE OPENING. YOU SIMPLY BACKED OFF.
The only thing we did was likely scare our friends. Whatever the hell you're "supposed" to be, I don't like it.
HMPH. SHELTER ME ALL YOU LIKE. I AM THE HUNTER WITHIN. THE ONE WHO KILLED THE BEAR THE LAST TIME.

Bardulf would stop in his tracks, his head shooting up and eyes forward, as if starting at a ghost. There was nothing there, not even an apparition. Bardulf was merely seeing slight flashses in his mind's eye of the fateful night where his life truly took the darkest turn. He had tried to repress it, to ignore it and move on from it. But the feeling of watching his wife fall before that beast that dwarfed his own size was simply too devastating to let go of. His body felt weak, and he began to tumble to the side. He heard voices and even footsteps behind him, somewhat blurred by his lack of awareness. But as soon as he began to think about the others, about Rue, Bowyn, Brigitte, Mister Luum, and this new elf girl whose name was slipping his mind, the voice in his head rang clear once more.

YOU COULD HAVE SAVED HER. YOU ARE MEEK AND WASHED.
Shut up...
CAUGHT IN YOUR OWN DEN. UNAWARE.
Go...away...
NOW OUR PRECIOUS MATE IS DEAD.

"I SAID THAT'S ENOUGH!"

Bardulf's rage became tangible. He was frustrated on so many levels. This persona of his that came bubbling forth was no apparition or possession. It was merely his own contempt for being unable to protect what was most dear to him. Even now, with all these powers, he barely kept his own against a near carbon copy of the animal that haunted his nightmares. Bardulf's senses finally began to return, his breathing heavy, hair hunged over his face. His anger wouldn't stop, as the normally stoic man felt the emotions come to a critical point, he noticed a shift in the air. Spark of energy seemed to dash around, his hair began to almost stand up on end. Not out of fear, but because the amount of static in the environment began to skyrocket. A few clouds overhead began to rumble, and before Bardulf could react...

CRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRAAACKKKKKKKKK

A bolt had pierced the heavens and landed onto the ground in front of him. It nearly caused him to fall back from the sudden shock of it all. The energy from the bolt seemed to almost cling to Bardulf, as latent sparks flew from his body towards the ground or into the air. Wherever the energy could find paths to travel, it leapt. He found this sight surreal, as the raw power coursing in his veins seemed to shocked his entire system into overdrive. He took a step forward and launched a couple feet in a mere moment. He had done this earlier with the owlbear, but now he began to truly understand what it felt like to adapt his powers into himself, as well as the risk of letting himself loose could hold for his group. As his ears began to ring from the crack of thunder so close to him, the voice called out one final time.

YOU CAN TRY TO HIDE. BUT THEY WILL FIND US. PREPARE. TRAIN. FIGHT. PROTECT THE PACK.

Bardulf took one final look at his hands, now turning around to face Bowyn and Rue, who were likely closest after the whole spectable. His face was now calm, serene. He showed no signs of anger or discord for now and pulled his hood back up as he walked towards them.

"I'm sorry, you both. And to the rest of the group. I am still....struggling with who I am, and what has happened to me. I realize in my haste I neglected the very thing we all agree on, which is to never waste a kill. To always make sure everything returns to nature whole and properly. Do you both want to....take care of it? Or shall we go?" Bardulf approached the two and stood before them, the energy from before having dissipated as he brought his mood down to earth and controlled himself.

For their sake, I need to be better. Stronger. In control. I can't just run away and I can't just hide. This is my fate, and I will need to see it through.

TL;DR

Bardulf deals with an internal struggle. The personification of his rage begins to debate with him about his weakness, causing him to erupt with anger and cause a lightning strike to hit nearby. Seeing this, he calms himself and realizes he needs to become stronger and protect those he cares about.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Farim

Location: Guest House Dining Room
Time: 6pm
Mentions: Everyone at the Alidasht Dinner

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Farim could only watch as his cousin seemed to double down on every action. It was a bold manuever, but without even needing to read the room or hear the rest of her tirade, Farim knew things would be rough from here on for her and the others. She spoke on her thoughts to them condemning her actions, how the might Alidasht family seemed to be simply a shell of what it was. How they had essentially 'shown their true colors'. Many other words and threats were thrown, causing Farim to even further solidify his cold stare. There was a part of him that hated the verbal barrage that was being thrown between him and his cousin. The notion of keeping the family together was one Farim held to himself dearly. To hear her suggest otherwise hurt him deeply. But he wouldn't show such an emotion to her. He wouldn't give her that satisfaction.

Perhaps you and I have different memories of Auntie. She was the one reformed the Sultan. Made him the kinder man. But I know she too was a proud woman, and rightfully so. He thought to himself. He let her words flow forth, and if she would care to listen, offer her one final word from him.

"Sever our bonds if you must. I prefer you alive to hate me than stuck in the gallows for inciting a war between nations. Perhaps you may never forgive me for my acts, but it's a price I'm willing to pay, dear cousin." He sipped from his wine, the glass nearing its completion.

Heh. Alone. You're probably right, Mayet. I am as alone now as I ever have been. I have no immediate family, truthfully. A father who sees me as another piece to his game. A distant uncle far too concerned with his star children to be worried over some nobody. I do not know my mother, not even her voice or face can comfort my darkest moments. My brother is ever constantly away, on his religious journies and vision quests. Finally, my cousins who I have yet to see for many years seem to be slowly disproving of my actions. How long before Layla too sees me as some annoyance to cast aside? Or for Nahir to do the same? Munir as well? I truly wonder.

He heard Nahir speak up, and decided it would be best to try and lighten his mood. He nodded his head and sighed. "Yes. Chicken masala is just what I need." He reached for some of the dish and scooped it over to his plate. He looked around to see Duke Vikena chewing on some naan like a terrified child watching his mother scold him. His daughter, all too familiar in her grief, seemed to be appalled at the aggressive chaos that had resulted from this dinner. What could've been a blending of nations became an evening of grave misunderstandings. To top it all off, it would seem Prince Auguste had the full intent of sending for his cousin to be punished beyond what the Sultan decided. It only made sense, given the circumstances. If they were to decide Lorenzo's fate the Royal Family would naturally try to decide Mayet's.

Yet again Farim was helpless to do anything helpful. Why do I even bother. He meekly pushed some chicken into his mouth to fight back the temptation to wallow in self-pity. But the waves kept coming. All that talk. All that talk and for what? You try to calm the Sultan, and you just make him mad. You try to calm Mayet, and you just make her mad. Am I just doomed to fail at everything I endeavor? Fuck. This is all becoming exhausting. How many times do I have to try and be the diplomat only to fail miserably. I liken myself to being a master of foreign affairs but I can't even get my own family to like me.

His face simply looked on, his hand reaching for the last of his drink before looking at a nearby servant with a mortifying intensity. The man seemed to shake as he wondered what Farim would say. He merely lifted his glass and spoke aloud "Another please."

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Farim

Location: Guest House Dining Room
Time: 6pm
Mentions: Ariella @Tpartywithzombi, Lorenzo @FunnyGuy, Charlotte @princess, Layla @Potter, Leo @Helo, Auguste @Inertia

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The immediate sound of Farim's chair being pushed out was what all that filled the hall during the immediate silence of Mayet's display. While it was certainly in character, Farim had a few choice words to say to her, and he regretted it had to be in front of family and guests like this. His steps echoed across the room as he walked firmly yet briskly around the chair where Lorenzo sat. He stopped himself and calmly pulled the knife from the back of Lorenzo's chair. He walked around Mayet and placed the blade on the table gently, and turned around so he would face her. His arm reached out and two fingers gripped the flat edge of the blade, pulling it away from Lorenzo's neck. His expression, for the first time in some time, was unapproving. His mouth stretched into a frown on either side of his face, his eyes looked down at Mayet with a cold indifference that would only be mimicked by one other man in the room. This gaze was the same cold heartless stare that the Sultan's brother had perfected on Farim. A stare that seemed to permeate his now sour mood to the rest of the guest as he stood there for several seconds looking at Mayet. Farim then drew a very, VERY, slow breath before speaking.

"Are you quite finished?" His tone was ice, threatening to chill the very air as the words snuck from his mouth. It was very unlike Farim to behave like this, but the behavior and etiquette he had seen today had simply been too much for him to sit by and act his usual chipper self. For once he had to bring out the firm and dispassioante side of him that he would write off as being one of "genetic flaws". But here it would hopefully do him well to deliver the message he had for his dear cousin.

"Not just that. Do you know what it is you are doing?" He then let the sword hang in the air where she gripped it and moved his arms and hands behind him, taking a stance not unlike a parent scolding a child. "I don't think you do, cousin. Because if you did, you would realize just how folly it is to threaten death on a guest of the Sultan. To bring blades within an inch of his skin while the man sits in a table and chair made in his own country." He would stand his ground no matter how Mayet would react, because this dinner had gone far too off the rails to be simply and quietly obsolved of all misgivings and malcontent. Farim decided it was time to end this constant back and forth ego-fueled chicanery.

"You come to their country. Insult their people. Look down on their traditions. Speak nothing but thinly veiled insults under the guise of 'wisdom' and then threaten violence to them when they do the same? In front of an audience no less? Have you gone mad or are you simply looking for a reason to cause the worlds first international war? Or perhaps be thrown in the stockades for murder in a foreign land? If not either of those, do you think yourself above everyone here? That you can threaten violence in someone else's home and be waved off just being a 'spicy shehzadi'?" He figured the last line might be a bit silly, but it held a nugget of concern for his cousin. He didn't exactly want her to be disciplined for acting reckless in a precarious situation such as this. His tone and body language gave no clue to this currently, as he elected to keep his firm voice pointed in her direction as he said his peace.

"You have the gall. To use decorations on their own dining room to murder one of their nobles. Do you want to go ahead and surmise if someone had done that back in our country, Cousin Mayet? Think strongly now. How do you think they would react if the shoe was on the other foot? Did you consider that perhaps? In fact, there is no need to ponder! Look right there. The SON OF THE KING of the very land you are standing in right this second is right here at the dinner table with us. Would you like to ask him what he thinks on the matter? Or, even better, on what authority would you be able to carry out such an execution? I'm sure my questions are getting rather dull so allow me to paint the picture." His tone became sharp, like a bird of prey who could tell that danger was coming, yet chose to stand its ground. He knew Mayet would hate this next part, but it was precisely why she needed to hear it.

"The Sultan invited this man to have dinner with us for weeks. You did not make it one single day without letting your temper do the talking for you. How do you expect to rule a country when the tiniest slight against you means death on sight? You have no decorum, no patience, very little respect, and demand all of those things from others. That is unsightly, unfair, and undignified. Not to mention, you are completely stepping all over the Sultan's choice of guest, and actively voicing your disapproval- no - your HATRED of this man. Do you not trust his Radiance's plans or ideas? What do you think he would think if the person he invited to dinner was killed in hot-blooded anger right before his eyes. Tell me Mayet. Look at your father and tell me that's what he wants his children to do. Because I am willing to bet ALL THE GOLD IN MY VAULTS that he would very much NOT approve. I would highly suggest you return to your seat. I do not speak for his Radiance, but gods above I do not wish to see another cousin ejected from tonights proceedings before we even get to the main course."

With his intense display of words he walked back around the chair and bowed before the Sultan. "I am sorry for speaking out of turn, and if my choice of words were poor, then I pray I find better ones for the next time I speak so boldly." He pulled his chair back in and sat up staright, eyes locked onto Mayet for what she may decide to do next.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Port Vanarosa
Mentions: Ismael @Th3King0fChaos, Amisra @Tae, and Odds and Ends Shop @princess

Equipment

900 amas, Red-hilted dagger, Leather armor, and a cloak

Tanithil was fairly intrigued by the wares laid out before him. He looked at each product meticoulously and thought for awhile before speaking. Ismael was right and they had every concern to wonder why such a popular item might be sold with a "funky" effect to it. He smiled and thought how the first outfit would make him look rather scavvy and scandolous. Just the thing that might get a rise out of his friend Amisra. But alas, she also likely scold him for spending "her hard-earned amas." so he shelved the thought for now. He softly picked up the disguise ring, the spyglass, and the compass with the strange eye. After placing the items on the counter, he eyed up the saleswoman and began his pitch.

"Right, miss. So I have these three items here for about 560 amas iffin my maths is right. But my friend brings up the excellent point. You say the ring is buggered, but kinda paused after that. What's exactly goin on here with this?" He motioned towards the ring before picking it up and hovering it over his finger. "Perhaps it best if I just try it on and see the quirk for myself?"

TL;DR

Tanithil echoes Ismael by asking what's wrong with the ring before suggesting to put it on for himself to see it in action.

Avalia

Bardulf

Time: Morning
Location: Southwest of Roshmi City
Interaction: Brigitte @Tae, Mister Luum @FunnyGuy, Rue @Potter, Bowyn @Helo, and Zeva @Pink Khione
Mention:

---

Bardulf's eyes flicked madly across the small clearing after his initial assault. Firstly, the one elf who started it all was delivering a clean combo of movements and strikes to further weaken the owlbear. Bowyn and Rue's ice magic proved to be simply too much for the bear to handle at once. The wound on the animal's neck was still jostling and twitching with electric energies as it poured blood onto its feathers. That is when Mister Luum himself walked towards the beast and began to chant a spell. Bardulf kept his halberd in his hands, ready to strike if the creature made it towards them again, but then a flash of light rendered him completely blind. He put his hand up to block his eyes from being seared from the pure energy and once it finally receeded, only a pile of burned feathers and skin remained.

Bardulf quickly holstered his weapon and looked at the corpse with a bit of a melancholy expression. A still swirling spew of emotions calmly settled within him as he truly wondered if he would ever get over the sights he saw that particular evening. He thought more of the situation surrounding him. How he would need to be able to kill and hunt like he used to in his younger days. The voice he heard was not one he had been acquianted with in some time, and would likely resurface as his "killer instincts" began to sharpen themselves in the heat of battle. He wondered if this side of him would be able to distinguish friend from foe, and if he truly would be capable of holding such power. These all were thoughts for another time however, as he would let out a sigh. "Sorry to disappoint, Mister Luum. I have a bad history with bears and still am kind of getting used to this whole magic thing."

He looked up to the group and let out a meek sounding "Can we go now?" Before pulling his hood over his head and starting to walk the other way, much less energy and passion in his stride than before. Right now he what he needed to clear his head and perhaps whatever path his mentor had in mind for him would provide that for him. Although he did just casually try to sick a wild animal on the man, surely he had his reasons.

TL;DR

Bardulf has a moment of deep reflection. doubts his capabilities, and rushes the group to move on from the dead corpse.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Farim

Location: Guest House Dining Room
Time: 6pm
Mentions: Ariella @Tpartywithzombi, Lorenzo @FunnyGuy, Charlotte @princess, Layla @Potter, Leo @Helo

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Much occured in the short span of a few moments. Hafiz, to no one's surprised, managed to win the favor of the more .... passionate members of his family while also creeping out those who weren't particularly fond of him, Farim included. Yet even as that conversation began to settle, another stirred almost immediately as Leo's drinks appeared to be forgotten, Lorenzo offered to say grace, and Layla for some reason decided to just sick Zilal on one of the supposed 'guests of honor'. He began to see his cousins would do little to take that title with any degree of sincerity. The Sultan, in his usual calm and cool nature, swiftly dealt with the situation. He would be sure Layla would be quite furious and possibly even blame poor Charlotte for the actions of another.

As that last debacle settled down he couldn't help but notice the interesting reactions to his homelands food. "Ah yes, peanut butter." He couldn't help but have a sensible chuckle as he watched Lorenzo mislabel the common food item and Ariella take a heaping bite not realizing what it truly was. He motioned for a nearby servant to bring her a glass of water to wash it down with, and motioned towards some nearby celery that was on the table. "You wouldn't be the first to be surprised by this food. It's not normally served outside of our country. But to us its a rather simple delicacy!" He truly loved eating the varieties of foods the world had to offer. He had to stop himself from thinking of various other things to enjoy this hummus with before looking back to Ariella.

"If it is not to your liking, may I recommend the kebabs? It is nice to have both meat and vegetable ready to eat so close to one another without the need for any fancy utensils." He reached for a kebab, placing one onto his plate. He was about to start digging in when he remembered the request of the Duke. "Right! You said something about 'Grace'?" In my travels I have come across a few folks from here who typically performed some sort of ritual before eating. Some sort of religious purpose if I am not mistaken. At least that's all I heard, would you be willing to tell me more or perhaps demonstrate it for us?" Farim figured that if he simply moved along the conversation that there wouldn't be time for anyone to say any biting remarks or quips at each other, no matter how funny or clever they would be.