Time: Morning. Idiot.
Location: Guest House > Beach
Attire:
☼Swimsuit
☼ Coverup
☼ Shoes
☼ Hair
☼ Sunglasses
Interactions: @Lava Alckon Farim ☼ @princess Charlotte ☼ @papaoso Cassius ☼ @Conscripts John ☼ @ReusableSword Roman ☼ @Apex Sunburn Sjan-dehk ☼ @Tae Kalliope

Layla had pondered what the redhead had been doing for a moment before rolling her eyes. Did this girl think she could insult her, the Shehzadi? What a pathetic excuse for a human being. Those looks weren’t going to get her far if she couldn’t properly do anything with them. Then, Farim reacted, then shocked as Farim dared to lay a hand on her guards. Malik and Haazim had fallen, both perplexed and annoyed by the attack. Then, when Farim dared to look at Ali, Layla’s expression intensified: her eyes narrowed, her nostrils flared, and she scowled. If he so much as laid a finger on him….

Struggling to remain calm, Layla addressed her dear cousin. "Ah, dear cousin Farim, always the valiant protector of misfits and outcasts, aren't you? How noble of you to rush to their defense," she said, her tone oozing with mock appreciation as she continued. "But let's be honest, your little band of misfits hardly deserves such loyalty. As for your threats, well, they're quite adorable." Layla laughed mockingly at him.

She took a step closer to him. Her expression turned icy, as if he’d hurt Zilal who she wished she had on her right now, but had left at home for the time being. "But mark my words, Farim. Your loyalty to these... misfits, will only lead you down a path of disappointment and regret. Enjoy your little charade while it lasts, but don't say I didn't warn you."

It was then some man in foreign clothing shouted something at Ali. This took her attention, as she watched both of her guards quickly stand back up and move to her side protectively. Ali was glaring at Farim now, ready to fight him should the need arise.

“Your words; why do you say them? Why do you think it is right?... Because you have guards? Good that a pretty…Noblewi–Noblewoman like you got them. But you are not the only one…I have two hundred. I look at them in the right way, one hundred will come. Please, do not make me do that. It is…A lot of trouble.”

Layla turned to glance over in time to see him sliding a pistol in a holster. Fury swelled within and her fist raised as if she wanted to punch him. Doing so however would not be in her favor, yet she almost wished for it nonetheless. She glared at him murderously. However, as her mind raced, a cool smile curled over her lips as he tried his best to tell her off. Why was this man wasting his time and breath? He could barely talk in her opinion. With a mocking tone, she batted her eyelashes and smirked with triumph. “So you think I’m pretty?” She looked him up and down, then winked at him playfully, knowing it would infuriate him more. ”How charming of you - what’s your fucking name anyway?”

Layla had ignored John completely, as she considered him a bug she could walk all over. He was nothing more than a ghost to her. Overdressed, boring, goody-two-shoes and duller than watching paint dry. Layla took one last glance at the group and laughed at them mockingly. While she began her exit, she passed by a familiar redhead and a charming man beside her. Kalliope spoke up as if she knew anything about her life, as if the little bitch hadn’t ran away from Alidasht, and knew everything about her. The truth was, she didn’t, nobody did, and this woman’s words were as dumb as the rest. What a group of miserable losers. Layla had simply laughed and waved her off as she walked away. She gestured to Haazim to keep right behind her however, and Ali and Malik beside her. She glanced at the fourth guard, waiting in the distance, and nodded to him to rejoin her, while leaving Ali out of the picture.

After checking on her guards, especially Ali who she gave a quick nod to back off, let out a sigh of relief. They were fine. With a mocking grin, she decided she was ready to go back over there and give Kalliope a piece of her mind. This bitch knew nothing about her life. A twinge of anger had risen inside of Layla now, as it pained her briefly. Kalliope had escaped. This time, she returned without Ali and only the three guards with her in tow. Haazim, Malik, and now Abdul, one of her longtime favorite guards as well. Layla was glad he’d been available to come, as he’d been her mentor for a long time in the art of combat.

Layla strutted over with the force of a hurricane. “Do you even know what my life is like, little girl? Oh wait! You left and are too busy being Edin's whore aren't you? You’re a coward for leaving the Alidasht. You - and the others - know nothing about me, little girl. Stay in your lane."

As she stood there, her gaze slid to Charlotte, who looked sad and pathetic as she had before. Charlotte was flanked by the handsome man Kalli had arrived with, the weird blonde girl with two colored eyes, and then the dumb redhead in green.

Kalliope’s words resonated in her mind: "So this is the girl whose name you said last night instead of mine? She’s even more beautiful than you made her out to be at dinner!"

She laughed so loud it disturbed a seagull nearby as she rounded on Charlotte. Did that man have a crush on the Vikena girl? This was amazing. Layla’s gaze slid to Charlotte’s and caught her eye.

”Aww.. Don’t you feel better being out in the open, Lady Slut Vikena?” Her gaze slid to Cassius and she grinned at him with a wink. He’d insulted her as well, but she didn’t mind flirting with him if there was a kindle between Charlotte and him. As she waited for their reactions, she noticed the jealousy between the foreigner and Kalliope's, then the man standing before her and Charlotte. What a dramatic group to be in. Layla cherished the moment as she smirked down at Charlotte and her sidekicks.

Time: Late Morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @princess Charlotte ★ @SausagePat Ruby ★ @Papaoso Cassius
Mentions: @Apex Sunburn Sjan-dehk ★ @Tae Kalliope
Aesthetic:
★ Swimsuit
★ Dress
★ Hair & Accessories

---

Olivia smiled kindly at the man until she heard the name Damien. Her smile faded quickly, but returned soon after so she didn’t raise suspicion. What was this man doing here by Lottie’s side? She narrowed her gaze at him and decided the interaction was peaceful enough. If it turned sour then she would protect Lottie. Her mind raced from the latest reaction. It was all happening too much too fast. The sense of being constricted caused her to grit her teeth and focus on Lottie instead. Did this poor girl usually go through this much chaos in one day? Olivia had never seen someone so distraught and defeated. Livvy made it her goal now to try to cheer her up, and to make it up to Lottie as much as she could. She knew the girl needed calm and tranquility, so she remained quiet as Cassius began to introduce himself.

Olivia, who held a smoothie and hadn’t sipped from it yet from shock, now took the moment to do so. However, it turned out to be a mistake as she choked on it. Bastard son? As she coughed, she turned away with shock. When she turned back, Olivia faced them and recovered.

”Oh wow,” she uttered. This was quite the turn of events. As she watched him be kind and then.. Caring towards Charlotte, her guard only rose. Was this some ploy by Calbert? She didn’t want to interrupt, so she glanced back at Farim who she was impressed with for his reaction to the whole debacle.

Why the hell can’t we have a peaceful day at the beach? Is this what it’s like being the Vikena’s? What else is going to happen today? She sipped her smoothie and her eyes widened at the redhead’s words. Cassius was over here flirting with Charlotte while he’d slept with the other girl? Liv stared at Charlotte and knew the pain was overwhelming her, so she took her hand and squeezed it tightly. As fate would have it, the day only became worse. It was taunting them for sure as she now noticed Calbert coming in the distance. Frozen, like a deer in headlights, she squeezed her hand tighter as a way of signaling Calbert was coming. They had agreed on silent gestures to warn one another in public, and this was her way of reacting to Charlotte without alerting others. With a deep breath, she went to speak, but was interrupted by the bitchy Shehzadi.

”Aww.. Don’t you feel better being out in the open, Lady Slut Vikena?”

Furious, Olivia glared at the woman heatedly, who only glared down at her. She chose her words carefully, due to the approach of Calbert and the others in the background. ”I pity you.” Olivia’s words were genuine as she glared up at the woman. ”Who put the bee in your bonnet? Do you feel better bullying her? Does it make you feel good? Because you’re doing nothing more than bothering us and we’re not doing anything to you.”

The woman rolled her eyes and folded her arms. ”Yawn. You’re boring me, girl.”

Olivia wished the beach was clear. Taking several deep breaths, she moved in front of Charlotte and glared at her. ”Go. Away.” Her words were soft, but the look in her eyes was menacing as she continued. ”Go be your bitchy self elsewhere.”

Her temper was flaring as she tried to contain it and not use magic. The voices… The ones she’d become accustomed to, were egging her on, and if someone didn’t stop her.... This was something she'd confided to Charlotte when talking about magic and showing her it. Her pupils dilated momentarily as she struggled to ignore it. Livvy clenched her fists, while anger coursed through her veins.

---

Time: Late Morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Attire:Cassius
Interaction:@princess Charlotte / Calbert, @Tae Kali @Potter Layla

---

"Oh, Cassius, dear…So this is the girl whose name you said last night instead of mine? She’s even more beautiful than you made her out to be at dinner!"

Kali’s words caused the smile to slip from his face as his heart sank down into his stomach. Normally, such a jest would have elicited a hearty laugh and some form of charming one liner from Cassius. Nothing was off limits, and he enjoyed few things as much as a bit of banter and back and forth. This felt different, though. It felt unfortunate. He had wanted so badly to reset the impression he made the other night, and perhaps he had been on his way to doing just that…but the way the air around Charlotte shifted and changed in the seconds following Kalliope’s words was all the evidence he needed to see that the opportunity was gone.

He wasn’t angry with Kali, in fact even now he could find the humor in her calling him out like that. It was a bold move from an even bolder woman, and he respected it. He only wished it had been at the expense of him alone and not involving Charlotte after all she had already gone through in the moments prior. Well…perhaps he was a little bit vexed after all. Still, maybe out of instinct or because he didn’t know what else to do, he momentarily turned his attention to his company from the night before and feigned a version of his normal grin as if to say You got me. Then, as he turned back to face Charlotte his eyes met her face just as she spoke.

"Oh."

Cassius watched as the gears turned in Charlotte’s mind and the moment of realization set in. Once again he felt the need to apologize…or honestly to say anything at all…but he wasn’t used to the kind of shame he was feeling at that moment and so all he could do was look at her with regret-filled eyes.

"Please excuse me, I-..."

Her words felt as though she might be dismissing him, but Cassius didn’t get the chance to know for sure as the woman turned the attention of her verbal assault back to Charlotte once more. Cas impulsively stepped to put himself between Charlotte and the woman antagonizing her.

”Aww.. Don’t you feel better being out in the open, Lady Slut Vikena?”

The woman’s gaze shifted to meet Cas’ eyes with a flirtatious wink and smile. Her derogatory remarks towards Charlotte caused his blood to boil more than he could have expected, and for some reason the woman’s flirty gesture towards him only fed that fire. All of the mixed emotions that were bubbling beneath his surface, the confusion, the shame, the regret…it all began to manifest into anger. He had managed to keep his mouth shut during her initial onslaught, which was a miracle in itself, but despite the situation clearly being handled by the others…he could not bite his tongue any longer.

”You prissy little rich bitch. Let me guess…mommy and daddy gave you everything a girl could have hoped for, didn’t they? Well...everything except for their love, of course.” An arrogant grin formed on his face as his expression held nothing but contempt for the woman. ”All the gold in the world couldn’t make up for the fact that despite all of that ambition in your eyes, you’re still nothing but an insecure little girl so afraid of being alone that you would hurt everyone around you with your petty spite before they can get close enough to strike you first…all so you can maintain the illusion that you have some semblance of control.” Despite his anger, the words did not come out venomously, but instead they dripped with a beguiling sense of poise. Cas was thankful that many years of conflict had prepared his instincts to maintain a bit of mastery over his external emotions even when on the inside he was full of rage. ”And you want to know what my favorite part is? It doesn’t even matter if I’m half right about these things…because even if there’s just one ounce of truth to my words it is going to eat you up at night that someone who is seeing you for the first time caught you slithering in the tall grass before you could get a chance to read them first. You don’t think anyone can see you behind all of those masks you wear, but darling I always see right through them…and what lies beneath is far more sad and way less interesting than you delude yourself into believing.”

As he finished his words, Cassius turned away from the woman as though she wasn’t worthy of his gaze and looked back to check on Lady Charlotte. Upon doing so, his eyes met those of his father’s some distance away…who unbeknownst to him had been approaching the group.

Time: Mid-late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions:
Mentions:

---

Many grunts and curses mutterings beneath panted breaths, Kazumin had dragged and pulled the net of fish, eventually coming to a stop in front of some shop currently unknown to him.

With a thump the net dropped slouched against the side of the building. Seconds later he was bent over further along the way groaning.” Ugh, so much sea water and..I don’t know what those are but…” An audible sniff as he pulled away coughing into his fist, wiping his mouth off at the same time.

“ God’s willing my stomach settles by the time for the bonfire… and would be nice if a certain octopus did more than just wave cutely!” Glaring at Otto doing exactly that while sticking against the building above the net.” Whatever, damn lucky you’re cute as hell. Now, just where the hell has a certain grouchy Oscar disappeared to?” Leaning against the edge to rest and catch his breath as he started scouring the beach.

Turning his gaze over the beach scanning as he rubbed at his chin pondering.” Let’s see. If I was a grouchy stuck in the mud knight with hardly an ounce of fun in his body, where would I stalk off to after abandoning Castle Olivuby?’( don’t worry, your honor shall be avenged) An idle thought as he zoomed in at the small castle with half of it having crumbled away. A tear shed.

Back to his search.” Knowing the crafty bastard he could be hiding or lurking in some shadow keeping an eye out for any sign of danger. Maybe the guy actually ca-” Turning his head around the corner of the building to see Hugo standing just to the left of some shop idly enjoying a snowcone.

“ Ah…well, this makes things easy.” A shrug of the shoulders as he made his way over to Hugo’s side where he slid onto the spot of the wall beside him.” I see you’re enjoying yourself there. Never thought I’d see you make such a cozy neutral face.”

An acknowledging grunt came from Hugo; a sign of the effort he was willing to put up with his nonsense, wanting to simply enjoy his snowcone in peace.

Tapping the wall in an idle and slightly awkward manner until he saw he would get no further response, did Kazu break the quiet with an equally awkward chuckle.” So..pretty crazy stuff that just happened on the beach, yeah?”

A harsh glance from the knight followed by a curt nod.” A sorry state of affairs to lay witness to nary a sign of dignity to be seen, but naught little can be done.” Was his response.

A simple nod from Kazu after hearing the absolute jovial knight said.” True. True. Guess there’s small comfort to see such a big crowd around Charlotte though and Ruby looks to have settled in well enough.”

Both looked at the group mentioned where things looked to have already moved on and Charlotte trying to have fun. Kazumin then shifted his attention to Layla, completely happy and enjoying herself.

“ Hm,I don’t know. Layla seems pretty fine with her big, strong manly guards that likely hate her just as much as anyone (though he’d dare not suggest her father shared similar feelings) if not more so.” Scratching at his cheek as he watched the group for a few seconds.” Still, this doesn’t sit right with me.

After thinking to himself for a minute, the cowlicked blonde found himself thinking about some of the things discussed two nights prior which has led to him noticing a lot of odd things.

A tilt of the head as Kazu looked over at Hugo.” Hey, did you at least bring..*that* for me?” Requesting the knight in a purposefully vague coy manner.

An annoyed groan from the disgruntled man who fumbled in his fanny pack until he procured a small notebook and pen who then offered it to the smiling idiot.

“ Ah! Thank you. Just need to dot some things down. Maybe doddle a little if I get a spark.” With a playful giggle Kazu stepped away to lean over the nearby shop’s counter. With an anxious wiggle of his fingers they moved to open the notepad.

`A flash of light emanating from the opened notepad glowing with blinding intensity`

Murder Most Fowl [+]

Murder Most Fow

The 22nd
Time- Mid-day nearing late day
Interaction: Olivia @Potter
Location: Outside, near some alleyway

Having spent the day shopping with Olivia and Charlotte, both keeping a promise and a much needed uplifter. The trio got along quite well and Kazu enjoyed himself to the fullest with trying out various men's styles and some dresses for a laugh and new experience.
After plenty of laughs and memories were made, Charlotte with her more strict time schedule had to leave first. They would catch up later while Kazumin and Olivia went on for a walk after leaving the things bought in the carriage being brought back to Asteroth’s estate.

An enjoyable stroll where the two chatted along the way. Eventually coming to a stop near the corner of a nearby alleyway. The alleyway seemed to be an ordinary alleyway with no evidence of any fouldoing left behind. However, on further inspection, some specks of dried blood could be found in some cracks of the wall or near bits of grass.

Olivia stayed further back from the alleyway with her hood on. She had tied her auburn hair up into a messy braid. Her gaze moved around the scenery wildly, and she took several deep breaths. The image of Violet’s face buried with an ax surrounded by a pool of blood caused her stomach to churn. She folded her arms around herself, then addressed Kazumin.

”Um.. Over there,” she whispered as not to be overheard. She continued to keep her distance and blend into the shadows. The last thing she wanted was to be seen near the crime scene.

Kazu had come to a stop mid-way towards the alley and Olivia upon noticing her lagging behind. He frowned with concern at the scared state his friend was in; coming here was always going to be difficult and it made him feel awful for bringing her out here. But, if he wanted to be able to help he had to try and get some answers or at least a better understanding of this situation.

And since he can’t just go strolling up to Violet and get her opinions on the situation, he was left with little else. Waiting a moment to let Olive catch her breath before stepping over to her.” Hey, I know this place is one of the worst places you want to be right now.” Nodding his head while slipping his right hand from his pocket to give her shoulder a comforting squeeze.” Hang back here, ok? Ten minutes. Just ten..maybe fifteen. In and out. Promise.” Making in and out motions with his hand as he started walking backwards towards the alley.

“ And on the way back we can get some good cuppa hot cocoa with Charlotte and spend the night away trash talking Calby… Some Edin if the mood strikes too..” Kazu said with his winning wink and thumbs up combo

Olivia watched him approach her and nodded quickly. She twirled a piece of auburn hair around her fingers as she waited. She shuffled from foot to foot and then finally settled on leaning against the wall so she didn’t raise suspicion. His remarks made her grin quickly which evaporated as soon as it appeared. ”Aye aye captain.” Liv muttered under her breath and watched the nearby passerby who didn’t have any clue what had transpired here the other night. Come on Zu,”

Before long, Kazu had made his way into the alleyway. His friend's recent words still fresh on his mind as he walked a few steps further into the alley before coming to a stop. Both to take a look near the entrance and to chide himself; regardless of why, he still brought Olive to the place that not only traumatized her, but the cause of all the strife now plaquing her.* Ugh..I feel like a complete ass.* Thought Kazu followed by some grumbles as he scratched at his head.

* God, I hope I get some results or I might as well be an ass as fat as Edin’s ego.* A long huff through his nose and a quick smack to his cheeks to rid him of unneeded negative thoughts.

Having shaken off the jitters and guilt, Kazu got to work on better inspecting the area, starting with mental notes on the specks of dried blood. And taking into consideration how deep into the alley the attack seemed to go down… peculiar for some to splash this far.

Something felt off, though impossible to pinpoint why and after a moment of pondering figured it to be his nerves. Since he had little time to waste, he got to searching the best he could.

Nine minutes later, a frustrated Kazu could be seen clutching his foot, muttering curses as the metallic thud from his foot faded away.” Damn those thorogue bastards!” He shouted in a hushed manner wanting to avoid sending any misunderstanding to his friend waiting just around the corner..

With his time running out and seeing as how there seemed to be nothing around, Kazu had little choice but to give up here. Stepping his way back to the spot he saw the dried blood where he took his remaining minute to inspect more closely as many questions popped into his head.” So many questions with no answers.” Talking aloud to himself, disappointed, he then traced his fingers along the crack, pondering what went down here.

So many thoughts and scenarios trying to play out which only added to the cacophony of questions and things he has learned from last night.” Ugh..talk about disappointing but better than nothing, I guess. Better not keep Olive waiting.” A defeated sigh as Kazu slipped his hands back in his pockets to head out and meet back up with her.

Along the way, another thought came to mind. With his head whirling with so much and the disappointment just now had his head hurting, leaving Kazu rubbing at his forehead.* This is all so complicated. And likely to get even more so… think I should get a journal or something.*

As he rounded the corner.” Sorry for the wait! Hot cocoa time though I’d like to make a quick stop alo-

“ Nagasa”

“ Nagasa!”

A hand suddenly slammed down next to Kazumin.” NAGASA!” Hugo shouted straight into the daydreaming blonde’s ear.

An act that had Kazu jumping up, his right hand holding the pencil clutching at his ear “ The hell was that for?! Trying to make me bloody deaf?!” Kazu scowled out in response.

The stony knight let out an air of annoyance while taking a step back and turning, his right index finger pointing towards the park.” Take a look and see what has happened since your little fantasy escapade.”

A grumbling glare from Kazu before letting his eyes follow the man’s hand to spot the group from before. Only now the tension was far more palpable and by the look of things; a fight seemed likely to break out. With how Olive was directly standing up to the horrid bitch who started the whole mess.

“ Seriously? Can’t a guy reminisce for five minutes without noble drama?!” Kazu exclaimed exasperated.

“ It's only been two minutes.” Clarified Hugo.

Kazumin blinked in response at being told this.” Really? Huh..felt longer…. meh.” A shrug of his shoulders.” Well this is a sorry right mess. Figures that vile snakes had more venom to spew. I swear, it's like this woman lives off spite and hate or something.” How else could one explain someone going so far to antagonize everyone, even her own family members at that.

Hugo listened to the peasant while enjoying the remainder of his snow cone.” Indeed. So, are you going to help your friends or is all that talk of backing up friends merely that…talk?”

The man’s words were goading with a harsh sting underlying it. He would get a raucous guffaw from the cowlicked blonde who waved his hand rapidly in front of his face in a dismissive manner.” Are you cracked?! What you got right there is the calm before the storm. Don’t get me wrong, I like stirring shit up as much as the next bored peasant, but even if I was on crack you couldn’t get me to dive into that.” Kazu said laughing with a shake of his head.

His reaction proved most unexpected and shocking for Hugo. Understandably so as he and most that quickly came to know this man assumed him to be the type to go charging in without hesitation. This left the knight unsure whether to approve or disapprove of the young ward’s decisions.

“ Don’t get the wrong idea here or anything. I want nothing more than to do exactly what you and everyone probably think I’d do. And normally would be right but…” Trailing off as he looked back towards the group, taking in the faces of those involved; both those known and new and the despicable snake herself.” Anyone with eyes can tell any small spark could set things off…. And I’m done causing my friends nothing but trouble.” Shaking his head while folding his arms across his chest.

Hugo could only stand there, quietly ruminating what Kazumin said. On closer inspection, he saw the farmer’s hands gripping his arms with a firm grip, tense and filled with frustration.” A difficult conundrum then.” The knight said while crumpling the now empty cup of his finished snow cone.

“ Tell me about it. I’m already pissed off enough as and now my poor groin will have suffered for nothing. At this rate, my plans for a bonfire roast will go up in smoke.” Letting his head hang back to stare upwards trying to think up a plan.” I can’t just stand back and do nothing…there must be something ...” Mumbling to himself as he let his head slowly roll to look around in the hopes an idea might come to him.

The sound of crumpling soon got the blonde’s attention, having his gaze hone in on the cup being tossed in a nearby trash can. He blinked a few times before hearing a chime to his right causing him to turn partially to see the ice cream shop then turned his gaze back to the trash can to Hugo then to the group, back to the ice cream shop then to the group then hugo. After several repeated zooms on these four locations, the webbed gears in his brain started to turn until a spark was created.

“ Mind burst!” Kazu suddenly cried out loud enough for those nearby to hear, having rushed over to place his hands on his bodyguard’s arms..” I-... holy cow!” He exclaimed in shocked disbelief..

Hugo raised a brow at this.” What? Has an idea come to you?” He asked, genuinely curious.

“ No..well, yes, but I can’t help but be amazed at how thick and hard your arms are. Has anyone told you’re built like a rock?” He said shamelessly in awe

“ Will you get on with it!” Snapped Hugo who shoved the peasant off him, his tolerance for Kazumin’s antics long since nearing their limits.

“ Ok ok. Alright, man. No need to get touchy… well technically I got touchy in this instance…” Kazu mused ponderingly at the unintended pun.

A growling bull huff came from Hugo.” Get on with it or I will toss you into that mess, myself!” The agitated knight barked, veins popping on his forehead.

Kazu reacted with a calm down motion with his hands.” Alright, alright. Take it easy. For I do indeed have an idea and a foolproof one at that.” A wide toothy snickering grin as he said this.

“ Foolproof? What ar-”

A sudden rapid disapproving wag of the finger inches from Hugo’s face.” A-bup bup bup. Hold that thought. Time is short and I don’t have time to explain it, so for now…shhh.” Placing the same finger that was only seconds away from being grabbed and broken by the fuming knight to his lips.

A fuming growl rumbled audibly with a fiery gaze fixed on Kazumin now backing up.

“ Yes! That is brilliant. Keep up that mean, murderous look as if you want to kill me. No one will approach the shop with you around.” A double thumbs up, acting like this was planned as he backed his way towards the ice cream shop; spinning mid-way to turn towards it. Doing so quickly lest the knight lose his temper.

He slid his way onto the counter in front of the open window where he would find a woman in his late 30’s behind it. The woman had a somewhat portly body; a bit chubby though hardly fat, her slightly pudgy face sporting a few beauty marks drenched in sweat; hinting at how hard away work she had been even in a cold ice-cream shop. She wore plain clothes typical for peasants while her brown hair showing signs of graying was pulled back and covered by a hair net.

She looked up at her latest customer with auburn eyes warm and comforting as a snug blanket and an inviting smile that further drew you in to match.” Aye, what can I get for you, hun?" She asked, her voice gentle like a mother’s with a bit of hoarse rasp to it indicating overuse.

“ Hello ma’am or miss…mrs? Sorry, I’m unsure which one fits best in this instance..” Kazu pondered while scratching at his cheek with a finger from the palm his chin was resting on propped up by the elbow.

A small snort in response.” Aren’t you a sweet one? Feel free to call me Molly. By the way, hunl your face is looking real sore there. Might you want some ice for the swelling?”

Kazu opened his mouth to speak only to hold up his left index finger and turn away to hide a choked up sob. How long he had felt the kindness like back home…a burst of homesickness struck.

Taking a moment to wipe his nose with a sniff before turning to lean forward, spitting to the side as if something got stuck in his throat..” Mhm, sorry about that, damn fly flew down my throat.” His purplish, blue bruised face gained a shade of embarrassment.” An offer I’d love to take, but time is short, but time is short and I have issues that only you can help me with.” Pausing as he turned his head to the left and tilted to see the net of fish; returning shortly after to hold up a second finger.” Make that two things!” He exclaimed with excited enthusiasm.

The mostly naked and badly bruised cowlicked blonde’s honesty and gusto was too much that Molly could not help but let out a laugh with matching gusto.” I like your spunk kid. Go on, I’m listening.” Eager and curiousity brightened her face to glistening.

Hugo and even Kazu was taken aback at the fact she was willing to listen. An opportunity Kazu had no intent to waste. Thinking on the fly, his right hand now at his side motioning at Hugo with a grabbing motion.

An action that confounded the knight still left in shocked throes then seconds later it clicked.* The boy surely cannot be this stupid? What would any of this serve?* The man scowled, refusing at first.

Kazu kept up the motion, more aggressively over time as he shifted into a more relaxed pose.” Seeing as how you have an ice cream shop I assume you have a place to store lots of ice cream, yes? I have an item I need preserving, at least just before sundown.” Standing up, his left hand shooting up, index finger up.” Now! I don’t mean for free as I know doing so can be inconvenient. As such, I like to offer the proposition that near closing time I come by and help out with dishes and all that. And I assure you everything will be clean till they are sparkling like diamonds.”

Hearing the boy whose name she had in haste forgotten to ask for speak with a rather strange but reasonable request though something seemed a bit off.” That’s a pretty fine offer, but I feel it a bit unfair for you. We get by pretty fine, but nothing that gives us too much work.” She giggled, amused by the gumption clearly intrigued.” And forgive me. My mind gets ahead of me sometimes, what’s your name, hun?”

A shared laugh from Kazu as he leaned forward and shook his head.” Ah, no, forgive me. I suppose it would have made better sense if I had made the order first.” Moving and turning his head.” As you can see the beach is more or less..a storm on the verge of breaking out.. And after some thinking, I thought..what would be the perfect treat to soothe emotions.`` Pausing for dramatic effect.

An effect that worked quite effectively as it left Molly on the edge of her feet with curiosity.

All the while his hand kept up the aggressive grabbing motion directed at Hugo. So far as to mix in silly hand signals mixed in.

All through it the stubborn man tried, but it was a losing battle from the start. With indignant relent, he reached to his belt to pull something and extended it into Kazu’s hand.

With a triumphant slam, the hand sized pouch full of silver was placed onto the counter.” Snow cones! I wish to purchase snow cones for the entire beach!”

Molly stood there just staring without saying anything for what felt like eternity. Nearly half a minute before she burst out laughing as she caught onto what he was on about.” Now I’m caught up. Quite the shrewd cutie, tad too good I’d say. Can’t rightfully see a reason to refuse even if it were only a few coppers. Things are about to get busy, hope you don’t get overboard with your partying.” She coyly said with a playful wink.

A flush from the compliment.” Thank you. And as for my name which you can announce…” Trailing off as a tiny seed of an idea dropped into his mind sending ripples of a possible idea. His head swiveled; gaze zooming in on Layla and the tiniest wicked smirk touched his lips.” Actually, before I introduce myself, I think it is a prudence for such a kind gift to be deserving of someone else.”

This had Molly’s eyebrows raised to the roof, combobulated that the boy would ask strange request after request, but saw no harm to listen. A simple nod, her response.

With delighted glee, Kazu leaned in ever so gently close to her ear and whispered a few words as a suggestion. He leaned back to where previously had been to see the baffled look on Molly’s face, to be expected.” And my name, Molly, is Kazumin Nagasa.” Said while placing a hand on his chest, honored to give his name.

“ Kazu-hun, I don’t know what you got cooking in that nogging or what you aim for, but seeing as no reason to resue was given, I happily accept. I just want to give a small piece of advice…be careful.” Her hand held out forward for a shake.

Words taken to heart, his hand grabbing hold with firm respect.” Deal!” Happily shaking hands.

With a throat clearing cough.” Right. Got lots of work. Judd! Mindy! Get the whole family! We got a beachful of customers to satisfy!” She cried out the orders exuding motivation and got to work.

With a victorious thumbs up.” Bless that golden heart of yours, Molly! I’ll get the net in real shortly.” Finishing with a finger snap to pointing forward.

A snorting chuckle rang out.” Go on with ya now. Do what needs be done.” She called out.

“ What for? Do you really think this will do anything? Wasting your entire allowance on such foolishness!” Hugo retorted harshly, confused and astounded.

A tired Kazu resting against the counter sighed; reasonably so having just pulled so much out of his ass to pull this off. Taking a moment longer before pushing himself back up seeming ready to respond when.” I- ooh, shades! Hey, Mol! You don’t mind if I have one of these do you?!” He asked, holding a pair of decent blue shades.

“ What are y-”

“ Huh? Go on, take a few. All square on that.”

A happy thumbs up to Hugo as he grabbed a second and waved it enticingly.” You want a pair?”

Hugo stared at Kazumin looking as if he wanted to kill him before letting out a defeated sigh, extending his hand to take it.

A giddy hum; dropping the sunglasses into the man’s hand.” Excellent. And now.” Turning around to lean against the counter with his upper back and shoulders, slipping on the shades in the midst of doing so.” Let’s see what tales will unfolds.” Lifting the shades as his eyes sharply shifted to the right.* It should go fine.* An awkward laugh, his finger moving letting the shades drop over his eyes.” Nothing diffuses conflict better than free food…at least 60% of the time anyway.” Nodding his head with a confident grin.

* And hold the cool pose….*

His left elbow slipped out from beneath him causing his body to drop to the floor.* And keep holding……… Nailed it!*

Jumping back up to his feet where he hopped in place excitedly as if what just transpired hadn’t happened.” Right. Let’s get the fish stored away. I’mma do that and…you continue being a sourpuss.”

“.......”

A clap of his hands with a nod.” Got it! Great plan!” Thumbs up leading to his departure.

Pained grunts from the side of the building followed shortly after.” Ach! My back!”

Time: Morning
Location: Beach Event
Mention: Ruby [@SasuagePat]
Interactions: Lorenzo @FunnyGuy Dr.John @Conscripts
Appearance:Outfit, Hair style

While enjoying her time getting to know Duke Vikena Ariella heard a blood-curdling scream come from behind them. Curious, Ariella turned to look to see what the fuss was about. Seeing the onion woman up to her dramatics again, Ariella let out a sigh. She certainly was an interesting woman. She watched as it was confirmed by her dramatic fall in a rather public display of needing attention. She stared at the women lying in the sand in disbelief.

“ I swear that woman, every event she attends she appears to have some kind of relapse in public,” Ariella noted with a raised brow. “ First it was the onion at the Prince’s ball, then I heard something about her fainting or something of the sort during a play and now screaming murder on a public beach and taking … a nap?” Ariella paused unsure of what exactly the woman was doing. “ Thankfully Dr. John is there, perhaps he can get to the bottom of the woman's strange medical issues.”

She turned her attention back towards Duke Vikena “ Well, I have to say you have certainly given me something to look forward to. I wasn’t aware such a place existed…Mother never really allowed me to culture myself outside of weddings and courting etiquette. Gives me a bit of hope that perhaps I can find a place to plant my roots somewhere that I’ll be happy” she added pun intended. She gave him a smile before finishing up her smoothie. “Tulips are a beautiful flower… Did you know in some cultures they are a symbol of rebirth? They die and bloom again like the cycle of life as each winter comes and goes. It’s very poetic.” She glanced at him wondering if she was boring the Duke but couldn’t help but continue. “ My favorite is lavender. It is used for so many wonderful things, plus they look beautiful and the smell is one of my favorites.” She smiled “You should plant some of those as well.”

Digging her toes deeper into the hot sand she tucked her legs towards her chest before wrapping her arms around them. “ What happened between you and my mother that she hates you as she does? Not … that it takes her much to hate a person but I suppose i’m just rather curious.”

Time: Morning. Idiot.
Location: Guest House > Beach
Attire:
☼Swimsuit
☼ Coverup
☼ Shoes
☼ Hair
☼ Sunglasses
Interactions: @Lava Alckon Farim ☼ @princess Charlotte ☼ ☼ @Conscripts John ☼ @ReusableSword Roman ☼ @Apex Sunburn Sjan-dehk ☼ @Tae Kalliope ☼ @PapaOso Cassius

Layla watched Farim’s movements carefully. Once he approached her, he wrapped an arm around her shoulder. Her eyebrows knitted together with amusement. He had made a move, polite, but nonetheless, marking her touchable. She cringed at the gesture and flicked his arm off of her with annoyance. Were his hands clean from these filthy misfits? Disgust showed on her face while she backed away from him. The scathing expression on her face would wound a man’s soul if possible. ”My goodness Farim, have you finally learned to count? I’m so proud of you. Papa Hafiz will be too.” She smirked at him and folded her arms. ”Do you ever get tired of mediating? Sounds exhausting. Maybe you should go apply for a meditator visa here.” She rolled her eyes and turned to face Cassius now with a haughty smirk playing upon her lips.

Layla’s burst of laughter caused some passerby to look over as he called her a prissy little rich bitch. She couldn’t stop laughing as he tried to lecture her. What did he, the bastard, know about love? Tears of amusement clouded her vision as he continued. Despite the amusement, his words did cut deep inside, as the visions of what awaited her if she failed flashed through her mind. This poor bastard boy, he acted as if he knew anything about love. His poor daddy hadn’t even been around. She continued the laugh though, which was genuinely amused, and did not show any hints to her inner reflection. The anger in his vision caused her to grin as she finally stopped laughing.

”Oh my god.” Layla paused and then began laughing cruelly once more. ”You have so much to say! Do you have a crush on Little Ms. Vikena? Look at that Charlotte, someone likes you! Too bad he’s sleeping with someone else. Once a bastard, always a bastard, huh, Casserole? I can read you from a mile away. A lonely nobody who is trying to fill a void and project your problems on me. It’s sad really. Get a therapist. Maybe your noble dad can buy you one?”

Her attention now turned to the red-haired traitor. Layla grinned at her with utmost amusement and pleasure, her arms now at her sides protectively. The gaze in her eyes became treacherous; like a ship in the middle of a storm. The snake inside her was poised and ready to strike. ”Jealous? Of not leaving Alidasht? Is this some delusional joke, Red?” Layla retorted with derisive laughter. ”It’s been long enough. I could go another hundred years of not seeing your ugly little face, Red.” Layla continued, her voice was now becoming quiet and menacing. The hint of madness in Kalliope’s eyes would be reflected in Layla’s, but far more murderously as well. If there weren’t people here, Layla would not have had a problem slicing and dicing this bitch.

”It’s adorable for you to stand here and accuse me of having no bite, girl.” She subtly took a step towards her and pinched her cheeks gently. ”I’d be happy to slice, dice, and gut you like a fish, Kali. I’d relish your screams more than Hafiz has and really, you have some nerve talking to me; someone of much higher status than you, in public. You know exactly what I could have done to you. But too bad, you ran away, off on your own like you always will be.” She leaned in with a glint of mischief in her eye and whispered: “But you’d like that, wouldn’t you? To be put out of your miserable existence? If I were you, I know I would. Zilal would be willing to assist too I’m sure; he hates traitors as much as I do.”

Once Kalliope took a step forward, as did Layla who malevolently smiled at her. ”Your stories are as boring as your face is, darling. No wonder you’re sleeping around and trying to win people over with spreading your legs. I know you loved my brother, but he’s gone now - you disappeared soon after too. What happened? Did he reject you and cause you to leave? OH! Is that why you left? You weren’t accepted? Oh man. Is this why you’re picking up men left and right here Kalli darling? What a love story this is: your boy toy Cassius is looking at Charlotte and so is boytoy number two here.” She gestured to Sjandeho who she blew a kiss tauntingly. “You should have seen the way he defended her; well both of them really. Doubt either of them would get that way over a skank like you. You’re nothing more than a little whore, a slut, and a toy for people to play with until they get bored. Don’t worry, when you’re done doing whatever it is you do now for us, you can always see if the brothels are hiring.”

“Like Hafiz would want to hear from someone like you. Please. You’re funny. You call me a puppet but from where I stand, I’m a princess and you’re... what? Please tell us all what you add to society.” Layla cackled and grinned at her with not a care in the world. There was a flicker of irritation in her eyes as Kalliope asked how her head was, but she was quick to smile and smoothly reply. “My head’s still pretty and crowned. Forever will be. How’s your family? Oh that’s right… You don’t have one, do you? Maybe Edin’s your daddy now?”

For some reason the heterochromatic eyed girl had screamed and fallen, much to Layla’s dismay. The woman had collapsed beside her and Layla jumped back with surprise and disgust. At the same time, sand flew up and accidentally fell on the girl. Layla glanced at it then shrugged and returned her attention to Kalliope, Cassius, Sjandehk and Charlotte, who she smirked at when she had finished .Layla continued with a malicious smile as she relished the taunts and words. Layla looked ready to defend herself, whether it be physically or verbally. Like a cheetah waiting in the grass, she too, would strike once necessary.

Time: Late Morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @princess Charlotte ★ [@Papa Oso] Cassius ★
Mentions: @SausagePat Ruby ★
Aesthetic:
★ Swimsuit
★ Dress
★ Hair & Accessories

---

The chaos that became the beach was too much for Olivia; not to mention poor Charlotte. Olivia had turned away from the princess bitch before she snapped on her and had taken several deep breaths. It would not bode well to lose her cool, especially with Calbert's approach.

”Use a spell, Persephone. Teach her who's boss.”
”You know enough magic. You’re intermediate. You can cause her a whole world of pain. Embarrass her. Even kill her. Put them out of their misery.”
”We didn’t teach you magic for nothing… Use it Persephone!”

Olivia gritted her teeth and bit her tongue hard, enough to cause blood to surface. No. Shut up. Shut up. Shut up!

She took another deep breath, in and out slowly, trying to meditate quietly as best she could. Her gaze turned to Charlotte who she knew she needed to console and also get Kazumin out of here. She wrapped an arm around her friend and conversed with Ruby. However, the woman rambled on quite insanely, much like she had the previous night. Stunned, Olivia watched her ramble and blinked. This woman was unlike anyone she had met, yet the neurotic behavior and her kind attitude towards them made her endearing all the same. That is, until she randomly passed out in the middle of Layla vs the entire beach.

”Ruby!” She dropped to her knees beside her and scowled when sand flew onto her from the Princess Bitch. Liv took another deep breath and checked her pulse. ”She’s breathing. I guess this is too much for her? Do you want to help me move her, Charlotte or Casser-Cassius?” If she could help move them out before Calbert came, she would be thrilled. Olivia flicked his knee gently to attract his attention to the matter and nudged Charlotte with her elbow to signal the approach of Calbert. Her mind raced from everything and she wanted to explode.

”Could we move… Now?” She whispered urgently and frantically searched for Kazumin, all the while making sure Calbert did not see her panic.

The sincerity in Kalliope’s words loosened the tension coiled within Sjan-dehk. Somewhat, in any case. He still wished to be elsewhere; he still felt unease roiling in him, and he still didn’t understand why he had felt what he had felt. But the urge to excuse himself and return to his Sada Kurau had lessened, at least. And truth be told, he felt more silly than anything else. There was no reason for all this internal turmoil. None at all. Whatever relationship Kalliope had with Cassius had nothing to do with him. All of this was just his own heart and mind being fools and tormenting themselves – and him, in the process – for no reason.

“No, it’s alright.” Tried as he might, his smile wouldn’t appear naturally, and so he forced it out. Likewise for the levity in his words. The strange pangs pricking his chest whenever he looked at Kalliope probably had something to do with that. Once again, their origins were utterly unknown to him. “I was probably being too careful. Because of all the nonsense that happened, you know?”

Part of him wondered if he should thank her, in fact. At least now he had a vague idea as to how he should act around her. Such rules of decorum grated on his nerves and sat poorly with him, but he couldn’t avoid the fact that they kept him out of trouble and stopped trouble from finding him. The Mother of the Waves alone knew how much he needed both. All the moreso, now that he was in a strange city far from home.

He cleared his throat. “I should–”

That was all he managed to say before the dark-skinned lady returned. Sjan-dehk groaned inwardly – she hadn’t exactly made the best impression on him earlier – and hoped for no trouble. It proved to be a fool’s hope as the lady made herself known. Very, very known, and in an exceedingly venomous manner. There was no one that was spared from her cutting and biting words. First was her cousin, then it was Kalliope, and then Charlotte after that – because of course, the poor girl simply couldn’t be allowed any respite, and then it was Kalliope again. Sjan-dehk resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Perhaps it was judgemental of him, but she reminded him of nobles who had been allowed to get away with one too many things. Or perhaps those whose grudge against the world became a touch too personal. It was either of the two, and neither were pleasant to deal with, as far as Sjan-dehk was concerned.

He looked away towards the horizon as the lady – Layla, as he soon gathered – continued. Gazing out at the glittering sea and gently rolling waves was a far better use of his time than listening to the venomous words of a spiteful lady. Sjan-dehk had to admit, however, that the amount of spite and venom Layla held within her was very impressive. He thought she would have run out of steam by now – the way his father had dealt with such people in the past was to simply let them talk themselves into tiredness – but she just kept going with no end in sight. Had her words been nicer and more learned, Sjan-dehk didn’t doubt that she could give even the best scholars a hard time in a debate.

An amused smirk crept onto Sjan-dehk’s face, and he did his best to keep it hidden from Layla. It probably wasn’t going to help with how things were, but he couldn’t help it. She sounded as if she was going out of her way to be mean, as if she was really trying to get a rise out of everyone, that it was almost cute. Like a child believing that whoever lost the run of themselves first in an argument was the loser. Or a noble who mocked and offended in an attempt to agitate another. The latter wasn’t unfamiliar to Sjan-dehk. Though it had taken him plenty of pain and trouble to learn his lesson, he knew better than to react.

His odd mirth, however, slowly dissipated as Layla continued to tear into Kalliope. Her words sounded less amusing and more offensive – even to him – as she went on and on. Well, if he had to be fair, it wasn’t as if Kalliope had been polite either, but at least she didn’t disparage Layla in such a degrading manner. Even Sjan-dehk, who had nothing to do with anything, began to feel indignation on Kalliope’s behalf. He turned back around just in time to see Layla blow him a kiss, and he only replied with a shake of his head and a roll of his eyes. It did get a chuckle out of him, albeit an incredulous one.

“Doubt either of them would get that way over a skank like you.”

She sounded so sure of herself. Sjan-dehk breathed in sharply, and felt a tinge of excitement bubble within him. Proving her wrong was going to be so much fun.

Of course, that didn’t mean he interrupted her. Even with such things, one had to be polite and observe all proper forms. That was the Way. Sjan-dehk waited until Layla was done before sidling over to both ladies, standing beside them. “Are you done?” He asked, an ominous smile on his face. It was the same as what he used with unruly crew members awaiting sentencing. Partially assuring, mostly foreboding. “You speak very well. Good words. It is a shame, yes? That what you say is so…” He paused for a moment to think of a proper phrase. ‘Full of shit’ and ‘a verbal atrocity’ came to mind, but he doubted either would do anything to smooth things over.

“...So evil.”

There. That should do.

Sjan-dehk carefully inserted himself between Kalliope and Layla. Though his stance was casual with arms loose, he still made sure to cover the former with his body in an almost protective manner. Though it was up to debate as to who it was exactly that needed protection. Both women seemed ready to turn this fight of words into a physical one at a moment’s notice. If Sjan-dehk wasn’t careful, he was going to be the one who needed help most. “Kali said things to you, I know. But she did not start this. You are the one who first came here, first started scolding and being such a…A bitch to everyone.”

The expletive had slipped out of Sjan-dehk’s mouth, but surprised as he was, he didn’t seem apologetic. If anything, he appeared almost relieved. He had already gone that far – even if by accident – so he may as well go all the way. “You come here, you attack Charlotte. You expect no…No punishment? If we went too far, we say something that make you upset, then fine. I apologise. But why must you be so mean?” There was no anger in Sjan-dehk’s voice. Rather, he sounded curious. “You say you are a princess, yes? Is that how it is in your land? A princess can be a fucking bitch to everyone, can be so impolite, and nothing can happen to her? Hope not. But if it is, then I pity your people.”

He took a step back with a shake of his head. “But you, I pity the most. Whatever it is that happened that make you like this, it was terrible, yes? Unless you came out like this. Then I pity your family.” He placed a hand on Kalliope’s arm, holding it in a gentle, yet firm, grip. "Maybe I speak too much. Guess too much. I apologise. But you must understand, yes? That the im...Impression you give is fucking bad. Hard to keep quiet. Feel like I must say something." He gave Kalliope a surreptitious tug.

“Come on, let’s go,” he said in his native tongue. “No point talking to people like her. One doesn’t chastise nightshade in hopes of it becoming a rose. She won’t change. Not now, at least, and we’re only going to end up poisoned for our troubles.” He glanced at Kalliope, then at Layla. “And beating sense into her likely isn’t going to end up well for any of us. As much as I would like to.”

With a smile that was likely as aggravating as it was amicable, he looked back to Layla. “Ah, sorry for my language. I am a sailor. We speak freely. Sometimes I forget, you know?” He gave Kalliope a little tug and began to lead her further up the beach and away from everyone else. Some time away might help cool her head. Before he left, however, he tipped his hat towards Layla.

“Oh. Apologies Forgot to answer.” A smirk played across his lips. He even found the mischief in him to return her gesture from earlier, and blow her a mocking kiss. “Yes, I think you are pretty. It is a shame. Great shame that the inside does not match the outside. And my ‘fucking name’, princess, is Wasun Sjan-dehk. Next time you want to fight, pretty one, come find me, yes? Will be interesting. Might learn from each other. Now excuse us. We leave. Have a good day.”

He hurriedly led Kalliope away before anything more could happen. “What a bitch. Are princesses around these parts all like that?” He grumbled beneath his breath before casting a glance over his shoulder, then at her. “I didn’t catch everything, but I know she said some very nasty things. Are you alright?”

Time: Late Morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: Layla/Olivia @Potter Charlotte @princess, Sjan-dehk @Apex Sunburn, Roman @ReusableSword Farim @Lava Alckon
Mentions: Lorenzo @FunnyGuy, Ruby @SausagePat, Kazumin @samreaper, Ariella @Tpartywithzombi, Cassius @PapaOso, and others

---

One after another, more and more people continued pouring into the fray, gradually taking over his senses, creeping around him as he found himself increasingly irritated. He didn't know why so many are willing to bite into granite with this person, and it was getting very clear that Layla had no intentions of playing nice or was unaware of her own rudeness. She was here to make trouble, to vye for attention, and they were just giving it to her like a masochist asking for the belt. At this point, John seriously doubted if this was about hurting Layla's ego than preventing their own from getting hurt. Everyone, and everyone, was ruining his day.

Another girl joined the shouting, and quickly passed out for no god damned reason. The same girl just a few days ago, at it again. He didn't want to bother himself with this. A quick look already gave it away, as he told Olivia to simply take her to a dry, cool spot. The bigger problem here is this crowd, and specifically Layla. She needs to GO, period.

The voices in his head began to dissipate as John zeroed in on his decisions. The stressed breathing began to mild, the posture cold and professional. After spending a moment away from Layla's sight and everyone's attention, he headed back into the thick, calmly standing as closely to Layla that juuusst barely get her guards to toughen up a little. The most quizzical thing now was a newly acquired sunglasses blocking the vision into his eyes.

"I hate to be the diplomat here, but can we not escalate into a full-blown war right on this beach? Thank you." He raised a hand towards the anti-Layla group. Their good intentions were not good enough, but he spared his anger towards them for it.

Now, for the Shehzadi...

"Shehzadi Layla, I assume my lack of elegance did not catch your attention, so here is my attempt." John said, adjusting his sunglasses playfully before returning to his cold professional manners. "You have been...say...unkind." He said, in such a manner that could come off as either sarcastic understatement or unnerving politeness. "Such a contrast to the image of the Shehzadi I met the other day. May I ask what had caused this change of personality? Or at the very least what is the reason for causing such a scene here?"

The boring, overdressed, bug-like doctor is now face to face with one of the most powerful individual in Eromora, but there is a certain lack of both fear and interest in engaging with her game. Whether or not she realized that yet was still up in the air.