Potter

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Danrose Castle
Mentions:

---

The exchange with Prince Lucian had Olivia staring at the floor with a mixture of guilt and embarrassment. How had she managed to mess that up? Why was curtsying difficult? She dug her nails into her palms. Heat had risen to her face to rival her hair. Fucking rich bullshit. Why couldn't nobles just wave and be done with it?

Liv sighed heavily and moved off the floor before she tripped into someone or something next. She sat down with a huff near the food table. Her mouth began to drool and she quickly covered it with her hand. All this food, what happened to the rest that wasn’t eaten? Did they just toss it? More than likely. Now the heat in her face was akin to fire. As her thoughts began to race, Oliva began to squirm.

This was not a place for a peasant masquerading as a noble. She tugged at the dress touching her burn marks and scowled in pain. There wasn’t much she could do to hide them perfectly; she was stuck with these goddamn burns. She stretched her feet in her flats and her scowl deepened. Why weren’t boots or tennis shoes allowed? Fucking rich bullshit.

She glanced around the room. The mysterious girl betting on Lottie was there talking to a Shehzade and then Prince Askel. Finally, a face she recognized, but she squirmed even more. Her gaze swept over Drake and Thea, but she didn’t want to interrupt them. Farim was with Princess Anastasia and another noble she didn’t recognize. Stratya was there as well, which caused her stomach to churn. Roman was people she did not recognize either. Ariella had arrived with her date but the thought of approaching them made her churn more. Gods, they owed that girl so much from the tavern.

What the hell did she even talk to these people about; the fucking weather? What did they have in common? This was the life she had grown up despising and feeling like the outsider in, and yet, despite being on the inside, she still felt the same way. If her mother were here, she would be over the moon with rage at Olivia being inside here and not doing anything. Where were Kazumin and Charlotte? She was going to lose her mind if they didn’t show up soon. It felt as though she were a caged tiger. Liv wanted to tear tufts of her hair out.

"Persephone..."

Just then, Cassius’ name rang out and interrupted the horrible voices of her goddamn dead parents. She whirled in her seat, half expecting Charlotte at his side. Sadly, it was his goddamn father in tow. She started to scowl, then realized her facial expressions were loud, and returned away. She eyed him from the corner of her eye until the asshole had walked away. Olivia stood up, cursed as she nearly tripped on her dress, and grabbed the nearest shots, piled plates filled with food, and strode over to Cassius.

“You look like you need a pick me up.” Olivia observed with a wry grin. “Mind if I join? I can fuck off if you want.” The tension eased a bit, but her heart hammered. If she embarrassed herself one more time, she might as well jump off the balcony.

"Persephone..."

Shut the fuck up already.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Danrose Castle
Interactions: @AuthenticTomb Aslam & @RemRam Askel
Mentions: @princess Marina/Calbert & @Oso Ambrose/Cassius

---

The way Aslam’s hand had lingered on her arms had sent shivers down Kira’s spine. A grin wrapped around her lips. She said nothing and paused to sip her wine and enjoy the food nearby her. After the moment had ended, Aslam continued his discussion with Askel. As the two gentlemen spoke, Kira’s eyes gazed over to Shehzadi Ranya. The Varian Prince and her? What an interesting match. Kira remained quiet and observed the two. Aslam’s gaze lingered on Askel’s hair, and the prince in question remained polite and cordial. At his apology, Kira waved her hand dismissively with a joyful laugh.

”Oh Prince Askel, it is not a problem, but do take care, especially if you’re armed next time. We wouldn’t want an accident.” She paused and sipped her wine once more absentmindedly. ”But I promise you, it’s fine. It’s not everyday you’re bumped into by both a knight and a prince. I consider fortune to favor me.”

Their attention was interrupted by the entrance of Princess Marina and their knight, Ambrose. Her attention moved to view them both and couldn’t help but raise her eyebrows. What a pair of absolute beautiful human beings. When her gaze returned to Aslam, she could only imagine heart eyes over his face. His nervousness was not lost to anyone with common sense. Amusement rose inside of her, but she didn’t comment on it, and pretended to be busy with her wine and treats. Seeing her plate was empty, she quickly refilled it, and used it as an excuse not to comment or appear to notice.

Just then, her spine tingled. Chills ran down her spine as if there was an arctic breeze flowing inside. Her heart skipped two beats. Standing at the entrance with his bastardly father was the Scourge. Kira’s signature stoic expression remained on her face now, as her gaze settled on him. Her eyes narrowed and her right hand tightened around her wine glass. Her left hand instinctively went to her chest.

Traitor.

Friend.

Fool.

Mentor.

Scourge.

Ally

Liar.

Confidant.

Traitor.

L...

Kira took several deep breaths. She returned her attention back to Aslam and Askel with her usual playful grin and entertainment. Prince Askel was rattling off his admiration of Ranya. Those two lovebirds had fallen fast and quick. The Alidasht crew had just arrived. Kira smiled for them, though a hollowness entered her chest, but it didn’t show; no, Kira was cool, calm and confident per usual, with a hint of arrogance.

”That’s too adorable. I do see Shehzadi Ranya not too far away.” Kira’s voice was as sweet as honey. She gestured with her head in Ranya’s direction. A teasing grin was painted onto her face that didn’t meet her eyes. ”Shehzade Aslam, do you have eyes for someone?” Kira inquired as she refilled her wine and sipped it. How many times had she refilled it already? ”Perhaps a fellow redhead?” Kira teased and laughed, her gaze no longer moving towards them.

The agony from Marek’s magic still rang throughout her body. Her smile dropped each time she noticed her wine. Each time she felt an unpleasant emotion, she reached for food and wine, overindulgence be damned.

Focus.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

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

---

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

Focus, Kira....

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

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

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

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

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Elena Pawonska

✿ Elena “Ellie/Lainey” Pawonska ✿ 21 ✿ Female ✿

✿ Ludovico Einaudi-Experience ✿ Imagine Dragons-Whatever It Takes ✿

---

Appearance

Height: 5’9
Weight: 145
Eye Color: Blue eyes
Hair Length/Texture: Wavy and shoulder length
Hair Color: Dark brown
Skin Color: Pale
Facial details: Warm, ocean blue eyes
Distinguishing features: Calloused hands, sweet smile, adorned with multiple accessories. Loves gadgets.
Clothing Preferences Outfit 1, Outfit 2, Outfit 3, and Outfit 4

Psychology

Likes:
✿ Art
✿ Rain
✿ Magic
✿ Insects
✿ Reading
✿ Pastries
✿ Her violin
✿ Weapons training
✿ Blacksmithing/Inventing things
✿ Bats, black cats, and voodoo dolls

Dislikes:
✿ Gossip
✿ Stupidity
✿ Beaches
✿ Negativity
✿ The asylum
✿ Being bored
✿ Hot weather
✿ Being interrupted while inventing/reading

Sexuality: Demiromantic

Hobbies:
✿ Experimenting with magic
✿ Making poisoned tipped weapons
✿ Blacksmithing & Inventing things

Life Goals/Dreams:
✿ To keep her family safe and protect the artifact.

Personality Summary:
✿ Elena is am ambivert and reads a room before opening her mouth. During noble events, Elena can become guarded and observe more than chat. This can be mistaken for arrogance or indifference because she’s learned the hard way that there are snakes in the garden. Under her guard nature is someone as sweet as the cupcakes she cherishes, empathetic and compassionate. Elena doesn’t enjoy being unkind to others and would rather walk away unless someone challenges or threatens her loved ones, her peace, or her plans. In addition, she resorts to manipulation, lying and cunning if it means protecting her loved ones, or the artifact.

For her loved ones, she would burn bridges, break laws, and sacrifice herself for them; for people she doesn’t know, she will hesitate–her siblings need her. Elena’s mind is sharp and constantly moving–to her, knowledge is power. She creates plans a, b and c, and if there’s something that throws them off, she becomes unconventional and erratic. Despite her careful strategizing, she has a reckless streak in her; bold, inquisitive, and occasionally impulsive when she is caught off guard. Elena can become as dangerous as a caged lion in these times.

Elena’s bravery does not know boundaries. Even if she’s riddled with injuries, bleeding out, or exhausted, she continues to rise. Arrogance is a friend to her due to her confidence. Elena’s humor is dry, sarcastic and sometimes sharp despite her kind heartedness. Her relentlessness means she rarely enjoys being idle: she will train until she passes out, read every book she can get her hands on, create trouble, or seek new and exciting dangerous challenges. Elena has the heart of a lion. Her ambition to succeed at protecting her loved ones is higher than the sky.

Background

Current occupation:
✿ Blacksmith

Any past occupations?
✿ None

Relatives:
✿ Count Sven Pawonska
✿ Countess Kasia Pawonska
✿ Nora Pawonska
✿ Magnus Pawonska

History Summary: Elena grew up with her triplets, Nora and Magnus. She loved her siblings more than anything, and was attached to them. She grew up being far more chaotic than Magnus, always getting into something and enjoying Nora’s hyperactive energy. She read every book she could get her hands on, enjoying being a witch and their pureblood line. Growing up though, Elle was sometimes too much for others and had difficulty making or maintaining friendship, but she wasn’t about to change who she was for them, so she relied mostly on her siblings.

When it came time for them to train, Elena was excited to free herself of her energy. Despite enjoying her weapons training, she found books, blacksmithing and studying magic far more exciting. Elle was often either spending her time training to protect her siblings and the artifact, reading every book, or studying. She became relentless in all her pursuits, utterly dedicating herself to her family and the artifact.

When Nora was taken away, Elle, normally emotionally controlled, was reduced to hysterical sobbing and begging, even trying to find ways to wipe the memories of the kids they had helped. Her father wouldn't listen to them and thus, Nora was sent away. Elle attempted to go after her, but was cleanly knocked out before she could.

In the meantime, Elle trained, studied, and practiced harder, wishing every she could have done something different or she should have been better. She tried escaping multiple times to find Nora but to no avail. When their dear sister returned as a shell of her former self, Elena was outraged and ready to burn the world down. Afterwards, Magnus went on to study at a university, where he was eventually drugged and kidnapped, returning with blood everywhere. Elle poured every ounce of energy into making herself better for them all, to ensure that nothing bad happened to them again.

Going to Sorian was not her forte, but it was courting season. For Elle, she vowed she wouldn’t let any of it interrupt her protecting her siblings. She has become a force of nature when provoked, but still holds sunshine in her heart for life and others.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

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

---

The sight of the ballroom in front of Kira was one of the most boring things she had seen in her life. Outwardly, she looked impressed and gracious, much like her body language. Every movement was cleaned, polished, and deliberate. Beside her stood Wren in a suit and tie and then their family friend and widow, Astra. The two of them were a couple already and familiar with Marek. They stood a bit behind her, allowing her to take the spotlight.

”Lady Kira Lockhart!”

With ease, Kira sauntered down the steps with all the confidence in the world. As the heads turned to take her in, Kira waved and smiled politely. Her dress and diamond jewelry glistened in the light. Her gaze swept over the ballroom looking for someone in particular but she didn’t find them yet. There was plenty of time–the evening was young, after all.

Kira descended the steps and her gaze met King Edin’s. For a brief moment, there was a practiced friendly smile and light curtsy. Setting her sights upon the disgusting, narcissistic and sorry excuse for a king made bile rise in her throat. It would be quick, ending his miserable existence and freeing the city of his stupidity. The urge to flick him off was almost too tempting. Kira turned away and moved into the crowd before she was sick. Wren and Astra paid their respects then moved off to find a table. The two of them were joyful as ever.

Her gaze swept over everyone in the crowd until she spotted a familiar face. Kira grinned and quickly brushed through people. She arrived near Shehzade Aslam and Shehzadi Amira.

”Good evening, Shehzade Aslam and Shehzadi Amira.” Kira bowed in the traditional Alidasht way and sat up straight. Her dialect remained in Alidasht. ”I’m Kira. It’s a pleasure to meet you. How are you doing? You both look amazing–the crowd should be jealous of you both.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

FLASHBACK

Kira & Zane

(Zane is a Black Rose NPC - Zane’s Page )

---

The cool night air wrapped around Kira like a blanket. She moved softly through the woods while her footsteps barely made any noise. Her black hair was wrapped in a tight bun and her ensemble was clean-black blouse tucked into black leggings, calf-high boots, a cloak with a hood and a small satchel over her shoulder. She glanced around and paused for any noise, then continued when she didn’t hear any. At 2:00 in the morning, she doubted anyone would be awake, but she had to be sure. She clutched her necklace tightly and tucked it under her shirt. Lover’s Lake wasn’t far ahead of her, and she knew it was normally empty around this time. If not, well, the dead told no tales.

The faintest shift in the air preceded him, and when Zane emerged from the treeline with the same muted vibe he carried everywhere.

He did not break her space abruptly, only angled himself into view so she would not mistake him for something worse. Moonlight caught in the white of his hair and eyes as his gaze settled on her satchel, then the lake beyond, then finally her face, assessing without accusation. “You shouldn’t be out here alone,” he said softly, his voice low. “Not at this hour.” He paused, giving her time, not pressing closer. “I saw you leave the grounds and wanted to be sure you were all right.”

The shift in the air alerted Kira far faster than footsteps would. Instinctively, she reached for a blade and allowed her hand to rest on the hilt. As Zane came into view, her shoulders relaxed, and the quickness in her heart rate slowed. She glanced over at him. While she blended into the shadows, he stood out. His ghostly pale hair and face were beautiful amongst the trees and leaves. She paused and turned to face him, and moved her hand away from the hilt to show she was unarmed.

”I could say the same to you if I hadn’t noticed you were awake.” Kira’s voice was soft. She glanced around for any sign of him being followed. Her jaw clenched and her muscles remained poised for anything.

“I prefer to be awake at night; it’s been that way since I was young.” He stepped closer to her.

”Are you alone? Did anyone see you leave?” She waited for his answer and once he confirmed it, she moved closer to him and gently took his wrist. Her topaz eyes remained vigilant, and she swallowed hard. ”I have something to tell you–not here.”

“I’m alone.” Zane clarified, his snow-white gaze distant. Her last words finally shifted his eyes to her, and he tilted his head with interest.

“Where to then, love?” He softly inquired.

Love. Kira turned away before her cheeks betrayed her. It was such an unusual term to be called. She waited for him to fall into step beside her. She led them to Lover’s Lake which was thankfully deserted at this time.

Once settled, Kira laid out a picnic blanket with snacks and a few bottles of wine. They were near the water’s edge with moonlight reflecting upon the water. Some of the willow trees hid them as well. Kira poured them a bottle of wine and took a sip. She stared at him and started to giggle.

”So, I thought we could do something nice for ourselves cause nobody else will,” she told him with a grin. Her shoulders relaxed and her breathing was easier. ”And I needed to tell you something, and I'm not sure who else will understand….”

Kira paused and met his gaze. Her voice was barely above a whisper, and her gaze became serious. ”I need your help breaking my curse. Also, I’ve dispatched a few batches of hunters the past week.”

“How many? And did any of them live long enough to talk?”

”The first group was a solid 6-8 people. They actually tried shooting me for once so this group was definitely smarter, but they underestimated my ability to defend myself.” Kira replied as if it were merely a discussion regarding the weather. ”Once I dispatched the first of them, they backed off, not expecting my bloodlust.”

He set his cup down carefully, then reached for her wrist with a gentle grip, as if he needed to confirm she was still here and still real. “Six to eight is enough to make noise,” he said quietly. “If any of them made it out, they will talk. Tell me where it happened and which way they ran.” His voice stayed calm, but there was a firmness beneath it that promised he would deal with the consequences before they reached her.

His gentle grip startled her out of her reverie for a moment. She nodded in agreement with a groan and shut her eyes, trying to recall. ”It was near the Tough Tavern… Most made it alive, and they looked…’ Kira mused for a moment and then opened her eyes. ”... Alidasht slavers, they had a pendant on their outfits I recall, blood-red diamonds. I think… I think they’re called Blood Diamonds. They hunt witches, supernatural and the like and make tons of money, and use us for fuck knows what purposes,”

His brows drew together as he processed her answer, the gears of his mind turning with rapid thoughts. For a moment, he looked angry—it was clear he had already known about the Blood Diamonds just from the expression on his face. However, eventually he seemed to put it out of his mind for the time being, and he let his gaze return to the picnic arrangement. A soft smile slowly formed the more he fixated on it.

Kira watched him stare at the picnic arrangement, and for a moment, her heart panged. His life story had been one of the most depressing things she had ever heard. It was unusual to have so many people around that would understand the amount of trauma they had all endured. To most people, Marek’s Swords were violent and heartless criminals when in reality, they were all victims.

”All for you, big Z.” Kira smirked at him and toasted her wine glass and gulped it down after a moment. When silence had been enveloped by the curse inquiry, she bit her lip.

His cheeks flushed, and he looked down at the picnic again like he was trying to understand what to do with the care she’d put into it. He took another bite, then nodded once, accepting it properly. “You didn’t have to,” he said, and then after a pause, “I’m glad you did.” He didn’t smile, but his tone warmed in a way he didn’t allow with anyone else, and his thumb rested lightly over her pulse as if he could steady her just by being present.

Then, for a moment, Zane just looked at what she’d brought. It was so ordinary it almost hurt. His gaze lingered like he didn’t quite trust that this was real.

“You did all this…” he murmured. He crouched instead of standing over her, folding down beside her on the blanket. “No one has… made something like this for me in a long time.”

Zane reached for one of the snacks. He then took it, biting carefully. His expression didn’t change much, but his eyes did: softening.

“It’s good. Thank you.” He accepted the cup when she poured, twirling it in his hand, watching the wine move.“You’re right,” he added, eyes on the moonlit water.

He finally took a sip, and the tension in his jaw loosened. “Eat. Breathe,” he said, glancing toward the trees once before looking back. “Then tell me about the curse.”

”So the first born of every generation is handed down the curse. As far as I know, there’s usually only one person born to each child–except in this case, my mother had three. Wren had some genetic thing about twins in his life,” She shrugged and she humorlessly. ”So lucky me, I was the first born. Maya and Talia were minutes apart from me and nearly didn’t make it. Life would have been easier without them. I don’t think I’d be in the clusterfuck I am now.”

The truth hit her like a cold plunge in winter, as if every muscle in her body was rigid from the frozen water. She took another sip of her wine and stared at the moonlight water.

”Anyways…. Marek visited the other night, and it was…” Kira shut her eyes. ”....Unpleasant.” She summarized, and let out a dark laugh again, a slight bit of insanity rising in her voice. ”I’m not doing a good enough job as his spy, turns out I’m shit at everything.”

Kira reached down and took a bite of her food; then paused and glanced at him. ”If I break my curse, I won’t be useful to him anymore…. It’s my way out, or I die serving him. So cheers, Zane, to our allowed time together, ‘cause one way or the other, I’m getting the hell out of here. I’d love to bring you with me except I won’t ruin you.”

Zane listened without interrupting, but the way his attention held on her made it clear he was counting every detail. As she spoke about being first born and what it cost her, Zane’s gaze stayed on her face. “You were a child,” he said simply. “None of that was a choice you made.”

Kira considered his words, but they were too gentle, too sweet, much like him. How did the sweetest person end up with a monster like her? A child wasn’t an excuse. She could have better decisions.

When she mentioned Marek visiting, he tightened his grip slightly, protective without being possessive, and his eyes sharpened with a controlled anger. “He shouldn’t have touched you,” he said, low enough that it was only for her, and then he added, “You are not failing. You are surviving a mad-man.”

His hand tightening around hers at the smallest amount caused her to gaze at him with surprise. She couldn’t figure out how to respond. She was taken aback by his reply, and she swallowed hard and allowed herself to nod in agreement. Madman–what an understatement.

When she raised her glass to “allowed time,” Zane did not lift his. He held her gaze instead, steady and serious. “Don’t talk to me like you’re already gone,” he said. “If breaking the curse makes you useless to him, then we break it. If he comes for you after, then I handle that.” He paused. “... And you don’t get to decide what ruins me,” he finished, his thumb still at her pulse. “I choose where I stand, and I’m not leaving you to do this alone.”

Kira’s gaze rested on Zane and how he held her gaze. She could feel the walls inside beginning to tremble and collapse, but how could she let him in? How could she believe him? How could anyone beat Marek? That sounded impossible. Still, he agreed to help break her curse if it meant she was useless. The curse breaking would relieve a great burden from her shoulders. Kira smiled genuinely for the first time. His words were like a glass of water being filled on a hot sunny day. A tear or two nearly fell from her eyes. She held his hand back more tightly now, unsure of how to respond to him. There were a few moments of stunned silence until she finally spoke.

”....Thank you, Zane.” Kira’s voice was soft as the breeze that tickled their hair. ”I don’t want you in peril though if we do break it so we need to book it if we do. I want to visit the library but it’s hard with everyone and they protect it well.” She swallowed hard and wiped her eyes gently. ”I don’t know how to thank you.”

Instead of using words, she leaned into him and gave him a side hug–it was an excuse to be close to him anyway.

Zane let her hold his hand tighter and he even returned the squeeze. When she leaned into him, he accepted the side hug with a cautiousness that was careful rather than uncertain, his arm coming around her slowly so he would not startle her. His gaze lifted once to the tree line out of habit, then returned to her, softening in a way he rarely allowed anyone to see. He tipped his head down and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead—for the first time, he wasn’t hiding the feelings beginning to grow within.

Kira’s eyes widened and her cheeks burned like fire. She noticed his expression and smiled softly. The walls were crumbling between them and a weight she didn’t know she had been carrying began to slacken. Kira let out a sigh and closed her eyes. Was this a dream? If so, she didn’t want to wake up from it.

“You don’t owe me thanks,” he murmured into her hair. He drew back just enough to look at her properly, his thumb brushing tears from her eyes.

Kira’s cheeks burned from the hair murmur; it was such a sweet response from him that she wasn’t quite sure how to respond. His finger brushing her tears away caused her stomach to churn with butterflies.

“You don’t have to ask me to leave with you twice.” He assured her, his cheeks flushing pink as he said it. “As for the library…” he added, quieter, “We can break in late at night. But don’t you go alone.”

Kira giggled and opened her eyes to look up at him. The pink flush on her cheeks was mirrored in her topaz eyes. ”I will not go alone–but we need to make sure he doesn’t notice because I can’t imagine he’ll be happy we’re there.” She sighed and took a piece of pastry and offered it to him with a giggle. ”Let’s enjoy the picnic though for now.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Danrose Castle
Interaction: @HylianRose Lucian
Color code: 8FBC8B

---

Olivia’s mouth practically watered before she could stop it. The food tables were delightful. How much could she eat? As she stood there, she remembered the first ball, how she had stolen bread and was so hungry she wanted to faint. Then her friendship with Loitte started and now she couldn’t stop eating anything in sight. Her fingers twitched at her sides and she forced them still, because she was not going to stand here drooling. Her gaze drifted, and then it landed on King Edin.

Hollow Crown

The fury that rose in her chest was evident in her glare. Her mind betrayed her immediately, showing her the housefire again– the smoke, heat and screaming, and the horrible moment when she realized her life was never going back to what it used to be. All because of that rotten slug and sorry excuse of a king.

She thought about how her home life had been ripped apart–homeless, abused, scrounging for scraps and becoming a magic enthused thief. It was traced back to men like him while peasants paid the price in blood and hunger. Her jaw clenched so hard it ached, and her hands felt too empty, like they were meant to be doing something violent.

"Persephone..."

Olivia forced herself to breathe, because she could feel her restraint slipping and she was not about to throw her entire life away in a ballroom just because that bastard King deserved it. She turned away quickly before she did something stupid like walking over there and trying to kill him with her bare hands, never mind his dipshit guards.

A voice cut through her thoughts so suddenly that she startled outright, jumping like a stray cat caught stealing food.

"Good evening. Lucian Camilia, it's my pleasure to meet you. I'm afraid I missed your introduction."

Olivia jumped like she had been caught doing something wrong. Her eyes widened as she turned, staring at him with surprise.

The Crown Prince of the Varian Kingdom was standing there talking to her.

Her throat went dry and she gulped. She dipped into a curtsy that was clumsy and rushed, the kind of curtsy that screamed she was not raised for this shit no matter how nice the dress looked. She could play pretend all she wanted. “Your Highness.” Olivia managed kindly even though her pulse was pounding. She forced a smile onto her face, and she lifted her gaze to meet him properly.

“Olivia Hawthorne. I am a friend of the Vikenas', and I am in town for the courting season. How are you? You look… dashing!”

Dashing? Who says dashing! The damn books in the Lottie’s library did. Fuck, is that even a normal word here? Oh shit, he’s going to walk away now. You big dummy! Maybe it's okay... Maybe it isn't....

She smiled apologetically, and waited for his response with a held breath. Her her rate pounded like a drum and her blood ran like she had so many times escaping the clutches of the wicked who roamed the poverty-stricken streets of this shitty Sorian town.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Danrose Castle

---

The Danrose Castle was nothing short of overstuffed rich bullshit. As Olivia stared around it, her gaze narrowed. How much money was put into this fabulous grandeur? Her lips twitched into a scowl. How many people could eat from the money wasted here? People are eating scraps… I was eating scraps. Her reflection stared back at her from one of the overly shiny walls.

Strawberry blonde hair flowed down her back like a strawberry river and olive-green eyes stared back at her. The green dress hugged her figure and hid most of the burn marks, except at the top mesh. She tried finding a long-sleeve dress in the middle of Ignis was next to impossible. Her face carried smoothness and reduced burn marks. It was an image she was not used to seeing yet. The dress, while beautiful and comfortable, caused her pain she would have to endure and ignore. She let out a heavy sigh–this was too much for her.

"Persephone..." Liv shoved her mother’s voice out of her head.

Her mind flicked back to the first ball. Remembering that night, she had to pause and recollect her thoughts: all the crazy shit she was involved in started that first night–reuniting with Kazumin, meeting Lottie, Ruby, and Calbert, and subsequent craziness afterwards. She withheld a sigh and stared into the entryway. The chauffeur waiting to announce her cleared his throat awkwardly. Her gaze snapped to him.

”Oh sorry darling, am I keeping you waiting?” Olivia inquired playfully, her words soft as a breeze.

Her head throbbed briefly for a moment and she gritted her teeth. "Persephone..." Olivia ignored the persistent voice of her father.

The man stared at her with blinking wide-blue eyes and nearly choked on his words. ”No, no, no way Miss. You are free to take your time.”

Olivia turned away, though she knew it wasn’t his fault, and he was likely a servant of this godforsaken Royal family. She took a deep breath and turned back to him. ”You’re a servant, aren't you?”

The man hesitated, then glanced around, and nodded fervently. His voice was hushed. ”Y... Yes I am…”

”Make sure you allow yourself a moment to breathe tonight. You’re more than just a piece in their games.” She then moved forward into the spotlight, her nerves tingling and her mind urging her to run away, to move out of the center of attention and hide, but she held steady.

”Miss Olivia Hawthorne!”

"Persephone..."

Olivia sucked in a breath. The room turned to look at her–or gawk, like idiots as though she were some exotic zoo animal arriving in her exhibit. She held steady, waved, and then proceeded down the steps, her flats making next to no noise on the overly shiny floor, her reflection staring back up at her, reminding her the taut line she walked in this extravagant bullshit.

The pain in her mind briefly returned and for a split second, she saw the remnants of her burning home, the screams of her mother and the yells of her father in the background….

"Persephone..."

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Kira & Marek

Time: 1am, Ignis 2
Location: Kira’s bedroom at the Manor

---

Kira sat on a bench staring out her window. Beside her a music box played gently and her moon necklace glowed in the light. She hummed as she combed her hair out–she’d showered after returning to the mansion from the hunters. After checking on Wren and her sisters, she was relieved to find they were safe and sound. Their security was top notch so it was unlikely they would be hurt, but she still was worried. Her mind was pulled towards Zane, Yuka and Felix soon–she wanted their company more than usual. Recounting the tale of the hunters to them would be amusing. She smoothed out her jumpsuit and watched the woods around the mansion. She distantly could hear the ocean waves and its magnetic pull. Subconsciously, she clutched the necklace and sighed.

The music box suddenly stuttered—a tiny, wrong hiccup in the melody, like the mechanism had flinched. Though the sound kept going, it was thinner now as if the song itself had been stretched tight.

The air in the room cooled in a way the ocean never did, as if warmth had simply decided to leave without asking permission. Kira’s necklace still glowed, but the light looked dimmer.

Behind her, the shadows seemed to take their time.

There was no knock. Just a pressure at the back of the room and the sensation of being observed.

When Marek finally spoke, it wasn’t loud. “Tigerlily. I hear you’ve been enjoying yourself.”

Kira’s attention snapped to the music box and she set down her brush. When it stuttered, she scooped it up and began examining it. What happened to the mechanism? Her head tilted to one side with confusion. However, as the room cooled and her necklaces' light dimmed, she pieced it together. The sensation of being observed was not new to her.

Bewildered, she turned and watched as the room announced Marek before he had uttered a word. The name Tigerlily caused her to blink; normally she didn’t hear that name outside her family–it had become her codename to help keep her safe from hunters.

”Yes, I have been. How are you??” She set the music box down with slight disappointment. It was helpful in not thinking of him, the hunters, or…

”what can I do for you?” she inquired, her attention now turned to the sound of his voice. The shadows hid him, but she had an idea of where he was standing.

“I suppose… I’m curious, Tigerlily.” He answered simply, his voice heavy as he held her gaze with an otherworldly steadiness. There was a long stretch of silence before he added, “Tell me… How has your mission progressed?”

It was as though a thousand knives were pointed at her. Kira focused on him fully. While she didn’t show outwardly hesitation or fear, she definitely was picking her words carefully. Her voice was steady and calm. ”While Felix and the others attacked Violet and Cassius, I watched until I could approach. His skills are as outstanding as usual. I tested him by stabbing him. The next day at the Charity event, I bid on Charlotte Vikena, and he raised the bid fairly high. Callum tag teamed with me, but Cassius won. It’s clear he has affection for the Vikena girl. I’ll be trying to befriend her too, but I’m sure Cassius warned her of me ahead of time.”

“In addition, Kazumin has been keeping a closer eye on Olivia. I believe she had something happen and again tonight, I saw her cast dark magic on Marius. She also beat the shit out of him. Kazumin came to her side. I’m going to start watching his family and estate, including Asteroth, because I don’t think he’ll be leaving her side at all. She was brave and foolish enough to check out the warehouse district on her own. So we can leverage her foolishness to our benefit. The Vikena girl was studying magic with Olivia–I was watching them one night.” She paused and began thinking of others.

”Roman disrespected Violet Damien publicly at the banquet so there’s something going on there. I’m going to try befriending her to get closer to Cassius. Crystal is easily moldable so that won’t take long.” She paused and then added, ”Also I heard more Varian and Alidasht royals are coming to town so I plan to befriend them as well.”

When she finished, he did not answer at once. “You’ve spoken at length... And you’ve brought me very little.”

He stepped nearer and his gaze settled on her face. The mention of the banquet did not anger him the way a normal man’s pride might; it seemed to amuse him in the faint, indulgent manner of someone watching an animal wander toward a trap it has seen before.

“I heard you found time to be charming. A princess, wasn’t it?”

He didn’t smile, but the expression was the suggestion of one. “Obedience is not a mood you enter when it suits you. It is the price of remaining useful.”

His attention drifted, almost lazily to the necklace at her throat. “You confuse proximity with progress and noise with leverage.”

Marek stopped there, deliberately, and then his eyes darkened. “Tonight, you will remember what it costs to waste my attention.”

Kira stood up swiftly once he began speaking. She glanced around like a cornered animal, but there wasn’t anywhere she could go. Her heart rate accelerated. It was like hearing the Iron Wolves and her father talking to her–not good enough–-words she was too familiar with hearing. It was like being dunked into the ocean during winter.

Kira took a step back and fidgeted with the necklace and glanced out her bedroom door as if someone might appear and help her escape. The mention of Nahir caused her chest to tighten. Kira braced herself and tensed up.

”I won’t do it again. I promise,” Her voice came out quiet as fear rushed through her. ”I promise… I don’t need you to show me. I’m sorry,” She backed away from him and calculated her odds on running off but knew they were slim to none.

A wicked smile of satisfaction spread across Marek’s lips. He lifted chin and asked darkly, ” Tell me, Tigerlily… Do Maya and Talia mean nothing to you?”

Kira’s chest tightened so tight she was wondering how her heart continued beating. Sweat began pouring down her forehead and into her hands. Kira stared at him and bit her lip hard enough to draw blood, and then spoke. ”No. No. They mean everything to me, Marek.” Her voice was shaky as she searched for a way to end the conversation before it escalated.

Without looking away, Marek lifted one hand and brushed his thumb across the signet at his finger. It seemed to be an idle, almost bored gesture. His gaze stayed on Tigerlily as he spoke again. “You misunderstand me,” he said quietly, voice low enough that it did not need volume to command. “I do not punish you for distraction.”

His gaze dipped down to the space the lamplight failed to reach, where the corners of the room pooled into black. “I punish you for forgetting what you belong to.”

A whisper then slid out into the air.

“Umbrae vorantes… carnem dilanient… in dolore periant.”

Shadows shifted in response, subtle at first, until they began to gather with purpose, slithering along the floor slowly and began to swirl around their master. Marek smiled as dark energy practically radiated from him, his eyes black as the night as he chuckled darkly; a noise that could unnerve even the bravest soul.

Then the first sensation hit Kira: a hard, sharp pressure at her ankles, teeth without mouths, a bite that didn’t tear cloth yet convinced every nerve it was tearing her.

It spread in increments, not like a single strike but like something feeding with patience, the pain arriving in waves that had rhythm, each one teaching her a new level of agony before the next replaced it, and with it came the sickening certainty that she could feel pieces of herself being taken while nothing on her skin actually broke. Shadows climbed her calves in ribbons that felt wet and heavy, then tightened as if testing where she would flinch most, and when she tried to pull away the darkness seemed to follow the movement, as though it had been inside her all along and she was only shaking the cage.

Her stomach lurched with the primal terror of being eaten alive. There was no blood, no wounds, only the brain-splitting clarity of imagined consumption until the line between illusion and instinct collapsed.

Kira went to speak, but her voice betrayed her temporarily. Then–agonizing pain began to envelope her. Her ankles were the first target. The thousand knives turned into the sensation of a million teeth. A scream of pain broke through the silent corridor and echoed. It was not an unheard thing in the mansion. Kira jumped from the pain and tried to move away, but it followed her and continued up through her body like a ribbon made from snakes. Dizziness from the onslaught caused her knees to unbuckle and for her to collapse onto the floor. Screams of agony and wails escaped her.

The wait as the magic climbed up her body was more terrifying. It wasn’t a few seconds of pain–it felt like hours. She grasped her head and hair and clutched it tightly, knowing it was futile to fight against the shadows. Tears streamed down her face as she began wishing she were dead instead of enduring this hell–the hell of belonging to, and serving, this witch asshole. She became breathless from pain and began choking for air as she sought a way to end it all while the magic continued consuming her.

Fifteen minutes.

That was all it took for her body to forget it had ever belonged to anything except the agony.

Two fingers lifted, a motion so small it could have been mistaken for habit, and the darkness disappeared all at once, as if it had never even been there.

Her nerves still screamed into the void for a moment, searching for the thing that had been hurting them, as if the agony had become an anchor and now even that had been taken away.

Marek watched the aftershock with mild interest. Firelight illuminated scars on his face as he came closer, but left his eyes untouched; they were flat and incurious. “There is no escape,” Marek informed her. “Your body, your name, your future, and whatever you insist on calling your soul—are all mine. By covenant. By consent. By consequence.”

He turned then and made his way to the door with the same unhurried certainty he did everything. His hand paused on the handle just long enough to make the pause feel deliberate and when he spoke again it was with finality. “Remember our deal, and remember your purpose,” he added. “Forget either, and you will discover what it means to forfeit what you begged me to spare.”



Fifteen minutes had never felt like an eternity until now. Kira laid crumpled on the floor, breathless and soaked in sweat. Her heart was beating so fast she thought it might jump out of her chest. She thought it might kill her and longed for it, yet the sweet release of death never came. She heard him speak, though his voice sounded as though it was a thousand miles away. She cracked open an eye and watched him come nearer to her. The firelight illuminated his face and she wished the fire would consume him and burn his ass to the ground. A pile of ash would have been more acceptable. Him or her, she didn't care at this point.

If only I knew magic...

His voice warned her of any disobedience. A sob rose in her throat which she managed to withhold. She didn’t dare shut her eyes again in case it added fuel to his wrath. Each word might as well have been a stab wound to her heart and she almost wished he would. The day of their deal, sitting in a cold and damp cell and wondering what happened to her best friend came back replayed in her mind’s eye, and only added salt to her wounds. If that day had not happened, perhaps she'd be elsewhere.... The world didn’t know cruelty or darkness until it had met him. Her moonlight necklace glowed dimly, reminding her more of their deal.

What the hell did I get myself into?

Once he finally left, Kira released her sob. Tears streamed down her face. It might have been hours she laid there in agony, as her body kept reminding her of what had happened. The aftershock was almost worse than the actual event. Everything throbbed and was reminiscent of being burned alive. Finally, when she gathered enough energy, Kira pushed herself up slowly. Her balance was wobbly, but she limped towards the bed and collapsed onto it. Her gaze met the ceiling as she reminded herself again for what seemed like the millionth time: Talia and Maya needed her---they wouldn't be able to fight Hunters as well as her.

How the hell would she escape this? It was a pipe-dream and a childish thought. This was her life now. She had forfeited everything that he’d mentioned the day she met him. Rage, hatred, and grief consumed her, but she couldn't find her voice to yell into a pillow. As she swallowed, she realized how raw her throat was from screaming. Kira finally pulled a blanket over herself and curled up, eventually finding a restless night sleep and cursing herself. Her pillow became damp from her sweat and tears, only further irritating her.

One final thought filled her mind:

If she had never been born, it might have been better for everyone.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Sorian streets
Aesthetic: Outfit & hair

---

The empty streets of Sorian greeted Kira. Drunkard’s Day was coming to a close, and there were only a few people still lingering outside. She didn’t have a specific goal in mind–watching the chaos was enough for her, and tonight had delivered. While she was not part of the tavern event, she had watched the people spill outside of it like ants. The people’s terror and confusion had been satisfying enough. The nobles who had ended the event had performed admirably. She noted it in the back of her mind. She began heading toward Marek’s mansion.

As the wind pushed her hood off her face and revealed her long ponytail, she heard a grumbling voice behind her. After growing up hearing random voices in the dark and having to defend herself, she figured it wasn’t just drunks. She had felt them–their eyes upon her, her movements being watched, and the shift in the night air. Her skin tingled at the sense of it. Being hunted for 28 years had taught her how to read a room before it even happened.

Hunters. She sighed and braced herself. It would be stress relieving to take them out. She would have to tell Wren–they were in Sorian, too. There was nowhere on earth they could hide but Marek’s.

”Ms. Mepanezi is it?” The voice inquired, still grumbly but filled with anticipation and excitement.

From her peripheral vision, she noticed several other figures step out of the shadows. Why didn’t these idiots just shoot her? She appreciated how many they had brought–tearing their hearts out one by one would be delicious.

”What’s it to you, fuckface?” She remained poised and flexed her muscles to loosen them up.

”We’ve been looking for you all over the damned place. Your family’s harder to track.”

”Ah, well. I like to move around and keep fuckers like you guessing.” Her voice came out dry as she took several deep breaths.

”Your head will fetch a pretty price, Mapenzi.” Another voice spoke and this time, it was female, coming from her right.

Kira remained still and waited for them to strike. ”With these locks, I’d hope so.” Kira taunted them and rolled her neck.

Kira heard the arrow knock and ducked out of the way as it sailed over her head. She unsheathed her sword and rolled onto her side and up to stab the archer through the abdomen. More arrows whistled passed her along with a gunshot she ducked from. Kira inhaled—they were more armed than usual–and elaborate. Marek would need to know. She ducked out of the way and used the archer’s body as a shield. The man’s screams were jumbled and unintelligible speech. She pulled her dagger out and slashed his throat, then thrust him at the nearest attacker, who yelled out and fell onto the ground with disgust and struggled to throw them off of the. Blood spilled all over the dying man and the attacker. Kira hopped out of the way of another bullet.

A man grabbed her hair and attempted to force something over her face but Kira kicked him hard in the knee and heard an audible pop. He cried out and released her, falling to his knees. She whirled around and stabbed him through the throat with her dagger next and watched his blood come pouring out like a damn that had broken. She whirled around to face the attacker she’d initially spoken to and a few of them steadily holding bows or guns, but warily now. She turned and saw the person she’d tossed the archer’s body at and grinned, sensing their fear and hesitation. They weren’t fast enough but she was.

She kicked the archer’s body off of them and grabbed the person by their head and pulled them forcefully. She then maintained eye contact and ripped his throat out with her sharpened teeth. The person screamed in agony and horror as blood rushed out, garbling their screams. As blood spilled all over her, she tossed them aside like flour. Kira grinned at them and dropped them at her feet. A pool of red formed at her feet that she relished.

”What’s wrong? You don’t want to play anymore?” She smiled maliciously and stepped toward them, taking care to step on the person’s diaphragm and cause more agony and pain. Their gasps of breath were music to her ears. ”Let this be a lesson to you dipshits. Kira Mapenzi isn’t coming with you, or anyone. The next batch of hunters you send to me will receive worse.” She showed him her bloody dagger and grinned at the leader who’d been threatening her initially. For added effect, she licked the blood off the blade, causing them to pale and stare with disgust. ”You want more?”

He glared furiously at her but was pale from the horrors he had witnessed. He went to speak, but looked too terrified.

”Run along with your tail between your legs, bitch; or I’ll rip your throat out next.” She snarled and made a step toward him.

The man and the remaining crew did just that and hightailed it out of there faster than the bullets they tried sedating her with. Kira sighed and wiped the blood off her face and looked down at her outfit. Blood was splattered all over it and onto her. She sighed in annoyance.

”This was one of my favorites,” she muttered and kicked a rock angrily. Kira’s heart raced and a cold sweat formed over her. How many Hunters were here and how soon would they return? She sighed and began pulling the dead bodies toward the nearby ocean to hide them. Although some of them were still alive, Kira still submerged them into the ocean and ignored their screams of protest and pain. She had dipped into the water to wash the blood off of her and have a moment of peace after the attack.

Once they were all gone and floating off into the horizon, and she was cleansed, Kira began heading back to the mansion, using the shadows to avoid crowns guard and people alike.