Time:Evening
Location: Sorian Beach near Damien Estate
Interaction: @SausagePat Ruby

---

“Uhm hey, sorry, I didn't notice you.” Mie said softly as she looked over to the newcomer, bewildered. It was a small girl with choppy hair and different colored eyes. “You’re not exactly interrupting. I'm just hanging out on the dock doing my thing.”

She wasn’t phased by the scream because she was used to the shenanigans of her fellow homeless. “Careful not to scare the rats…”

When Ruby asked how to make the rats dance, Mie was happy to explain. “It’s been a long time and the mischief have kept me company since I was a teenager, especially when I had no idea who I was. But now they bring me presents and I share food with them. They also love to dance to the music of the kazoo. ”

---

---

The last song was nearing its end when the city guards made their presence known to the party goers. The musicians wavered for a moment but continued when they noticed that Mina and the shaman were still finishing the song. Even with the slight interruption they could not stop, the magic empowering them to continue even as it was beginning to waver at the end of the song. Roman slowly moved his head in the direction of the city guards. Whatever he was thinking wasn’t good. The energy of the ritual was still flowing through him.

A stout man with a long red bearded approached the city guard, the Ravenwood crest stitched into the shoulder of his forest green robe. Several other Ravenwood guards moved from their posts to intercept these city guards. These guards were commonly seen escorting the Ravenwood merchants and acted as the primary protection for those in attendance.

Erik cleared his throat and held out a parchment for the man to see, “good evening, my name is Erik I am Lord Roman Ravenwood’s Assistant and a manager of the Ravenwood Artisan Guild. We have a permit signed with the Royal seal.” Again, Erik motioned to the parchment. “As it states anyone here is under our protection and will be escorted back to the city when our celebration is concluded.” He paused for a moment with a quick eyebrow raise to see if the guard was paying attention.

“In short if the person you speak of is here it’s up to them if they wish to leave and not you. We have also noticed how easy it is to procure city guard uniforms so since we do not know for sure if you are with the city guard we must protect our patrons and ask you to leave.” Erik had a calm smile on his face but stood confidently for a man of average build and height.

In truth he was trying to get them to leave as quickly as possible, he knew that the mountain of a man starring at them from the stage was not the same person he knew. It was only a matter of time before that mass of muscle and magic would determine that these guards were some kind of threat and attack.

A small commotion towards the stage made his heart drop, turning to see that even though the song was almost finished Mina and the shaman still danced but they weren’t dancing around Roman any longer. Roman had stood and moved to the edge of the stage, he looked bigger than he normally did. Some may say it was a trick of the fires light behind him, a light that seemed to follow him as he stepped off the platform. The ruby red eyes of the bear skull were locked onto the guard that spoke.

Erik made a deliberate signal with his left hand, the Ravenwood guards stopped what they were doing and moved to intercept their Lord. Erik turned back to the guard; his smile was gone as was his cheery polite tone. Replaced by one of annoyance, “you all need to leave, NOW. Lord Ravenwood is not himself. He drank something we give to our warriors that makes them strong and vicious, he will not recognize you and will see you as a threat.” Erik turned back to see that roman had begun to move through the crowd and only was stopped momentarily by multiple guards that were restraining him.

The song ended with the two on stage beginning to slow their dance and sink to the ground in exhaustion. This was supposed to happen to Roman as well, but something was still fueling him. This is why they always tried their best to have no interruptions. Even for them magic was fickle and could change with a simple misplaced word. The guards continued to hold Roman down but soon it became evident that they were losing.

Caught somewhere between a scream and a roar from what sounded like many people. An otherworldly sound came from the pile of people, a sound that carried rage and sorrow in equal amounts. The mass of bodies began to lift with guards being tossed off the pile until only roman stood eyes still locked onto the guard that interrupted. A feeling of danger permeated the area with each step he took towards the city guards.

“Oh hoh? Iszza’ wha’ you think?” They were both dancing around the real issue, though perhaps she’d come on a little strong. Not that she was necessarily looking to apprehend anyone. After her fife, she’d started this pursuit by reflex, but now she was in the middle of it and she just had to try and relax and leave it to the guards and anyone else missing their things. Right. Relaxing.

Oof, he hit her with the “Your Ladyship!” She often forgot her position was status as well as duty whenever she wasn’t using her status for her duty. She’s supposed to be a classy lady, or.. something. She certainly wasn’t lazy, though. “‘ard work? Hah. I think those words wou’ go espec’lly well on some ho’made bread, don’t you think?” She’d take an excuse to make bread any day.

“Ooye, who said anything about trying to find a date?” Before she could say anything more against her trying to steal his date, the young man got away under pretense of finding her a pretty lady. He was probably suspicious of her, anyway. At any rate, to his credit, he’d made good on his word. Yet another masked face to associate with the suspicious attendant approached her.

“Ooh, wha’ charmin’ comp’ny! Well come, lovely,” Stratya offered a pleased smile in response and her arm, placing her free hand on the arms that reached to hook with hers. Right, relax. “Aye, I’m keen on a game or two. S’ppose aye’ll ‘ang on ta this ‘til we’ve begun, then?” The captain accepted the offered drink in her freer hand, resisting the temptation to take an opening sip before the game had begun.

When the servant returned, the bottle, in particular, had caught her eye. It looked like water, but she got the distinct feeling that it definitely was not. With both her arms free while Zarai handed out the drinks to competitors, she wafted herself some of the vapors and gave a little cough, “ooh, the strong stuff, aye?” She hadn’t had anything quite so strong, before. She definitely heard of strong stuff like this, she’d heard talk in her village of strong liquors produced in secret in the thickets and forests. One of the popular names was moonshine, or forestbrew, but she’d never had the chance to try it. Was this something like that..?

When everyone that wanted one had their glass, Stratya turned to Zarai, glass carefully held in her right hand. “Righ’, then. You’ve go’ a game for us, ‘ave you?”

Location: The ceremony
Interactions: @Lava Alckon Farim @princess Anastasia, City Guards, @Helo Callum @TaeTorvi and her hostage/damsel in distress

Munir's smile from his conversation with his cousin was quickly wiped away. As a troop of the city's finest came crashing through the ceremony, clamoring about finding someone named Violet. The name did seem familiar to him, but he had not spotted the person at the ceremony specifically. "Aben am, perhaps it is time for you to get Lady Anastasia out of here... It seems like we have unwanted guests... Munir said softly but sternly. "Hakim, with me." he continued, giving his cousin and his lady friend a small bow as he turned to face the onrushing guards with his retainer giving the nobleman and lady a bigger, more status-appropriate bow before exiting with his lordling.

"And I, Prince Munir Ibn Raif al Kadir, command you to take your leave this instant. Not only have you intruded so rudely upon a holy ceremony, you have also disturbed my peace. For that you ought to be punished. On top of such acts of transgression, you dare draw your weapons in the presence of both I and Prince Callum Danrose? Your death wish knows no bounds it seems. I would ask my loyal retainer Hakim to bring me your heads, but I am a man of forgiveness and I believe in second chances. Take your leave this instant and I will have words with your commanding officer after the dust has settled from you trampling this sacred ground." Munir said, voice colder than the midnight sun. It wasn't normal for him to have to wear this mask, but if he was asked about it, he would surely say that it was rather exhilarating...

As he waited for the guards to decide whether or not they'd rather live or continue their silly pursuit, a scream was heard and commotions began spreading through the crowd. Hakim, ever-aware, was the first to turn and see what has happened. What he saw was Roman, clearly besides himself and showing the ferocity of a spirit bear, making his way towards the guards who still have their steel drawn. "My lord, it is unsafe here, we should take our leave... The ever-soft spoken Hakim addressed Munir. Munir, having turned in the same direction as Hakim, kissed his teeth in annoyance. "I think you're right, my friend. I think it would be better if we got out of Lord Ravenwood's, or whatever has taken over him, way. He is a friend, but he is not him currently..." As Munir started to take his leave, another, more familiar, sound was heard.

He recognized it immediately and his calm demeanor disintegrated. "Mina?" Was all that he said as he began scanning the crowd for the source of the familiar voice. What he saw gripped him with panic. A unknown figure had seemingly taking Mina hostage, and was dragging Mina into the trees...

"YOU! UNHAND HER THIS INSTANT!" Munir screamed out, his voice a mix of rage and fear. This also took Hakim's attention away from Roman, as he turned in the same direction his lord is now facing. Munir, without saying another word, charged towards the unknown figure, pushing and weaving through the stunned crowd. Hakim tried his best to keep up, but it seemed as if Munir was moving with unnatural lithe and grace. The uneven terrain and shambling crowd seems to melt away into nothingness as Munir bounded towards the treeline.

"MINA!"

---

---

The bear was not deterred from the drawing of blades and if anything, it only enraged him further. The chaos that the city guards brought was nothing but poor timing. The attendees once frozen now seemed to scatter or were pulled away from the city patrol and the raging bull from other participants and Ravenwood guards alike. At this point even Erik wasn’t trying to stop Lord Ravenwood instead telling his guards to pull the other party goers away from the situation.

The first guard the giant came upon was lucky, petrified in fear with a prudent smell coming from his pants as the guard soiled himself. With the swipe of the bony paw his sword was knocked away only to find himself quickly lifted over the larger man’s head and thrown into several other city guards some distance away. The leader of the patrol was able to push through his fear to swing at the bear, however admirable his attempt it only sealed his doom.

A mighty paw came down at him surely meant to rend the man into pieces, another scream saved the mans life.

” Roman! Roman, help me! Please!”

Mina’s voice cut through the night, pulling Roman’s attention just in time for his hand to swipe across the man’s chest. The sharp snow bear talons cut effortlessly through the mans uniform of leather and chainmail. Falling back onto his tattered uniform to see several streaks of red across his chest, they weren’t bleeding bad but any closer and he would have died.

Leaving the shocked man on the ground Roman let out another otherworldly roar at the sight of Mina being pulled into the tree line by some unknown assailant. Quickly running on two legs and sometimes all four of his limbs until he reached the edge of the trees. Another man he could hear running through the forest as well.

He only stopped for a moment taking several sniffs of the air as if he could smell them. Then one last roar turned into a howl as the brute dove into the forest, snapping branches and toppling the unfortunate trees that had the audacity to be in his way as he hunted the perpetrator. To protect her.

Time: Evening
Location: Edge of Lover's Lake
Interactions: Not yet
Mentions: Torvi/Mina @Tae, Roman @ReusableSword, Sorian Guards @princess

---

For most of the celebrations, the two doctors recused himself in the woods, only observing the celebration from a safe if not unseen distance, their black jackets blended harmonically in the evening mist. They mostly chatted, observed other celebration goers and often times, mostly for the younger and excitable John, humming to the sound of the music. However, they both did not participate in the celebratory feasts or dance. It is easy to get swept up in the heat of the moment, and as doctors, they needed to stay vigilant for others who might be in or causing trouble. Case in point.

"What in the hell is happening?" John looked upon the stage, seeing his friend, Roman, acting strange and then getting piled on by several guards.

"Hmm?" Frederick turned towards the stage on command, as Roman was slowly breaking free of his grasp. His eyes flattened for a few seconds. "Looks like he might be drugged."

"Drugged? We have to restrain him pronto. A man of his size is a juggernaut." John proclaimed.

"Patience." Frederick crossed both his arms, his head gestured in the direction of the few city guards. They didn't seem aware of the two doctor's presence, but the two can hear them easily. They were here for Violet, so unrelated.

Roman finally broke free after a minute or so of struggling, now John's fear materialized, as he began rampaging through the remaining guards and towards the Sorian guards. The escalation had gone to the moon, with weapons drawn now. But Frederick continued to observe and held John back.

"That woman..." He raised an eyebrow in annoyance, fearing that Roman might charge her and lost attention on the Sorian guards instead. He wanted them neutralized first before taking action, but if it came to this, they might have to take action anyway. He wasn't sure if that hooded woman had nefarious purpose or not, but the focus is on Roman first, and he felt it necessary to remind John of that. His temper was close to bursting seeing her being threatened.

"Frederick..." John looked over.

"Trust my judgement." He calmly said, the military man in him coming out. But his posture changed this moment, from casual observance to professional vigilance.

Time: Night
Location: Edge of Lover’s Lake
Interactions: @ReusableSword Roman @Lava Alckon Farim @Tpartywithzombi Ariella, @Helo Callum @Infinite Cosmos Munir

---

As Torvi slowly began to disappear into shadows of the treeline, her heart raced with excitement at the success of her plan. She watched with a mixture of thrill and awe as Roman unleashed his brute strength upon the unsuspecting city guards, his primal fury unleashed in defense of those at the party.

Quickly, she sheathed her dagger, her movements swift and fluid as she scooped Mina up. With practiced ease, she threw her over her shoulder in one swift motion. Mina let out a startled gasp, clearly taken aback by Torvi's unexpected strength.

Without missing a beat, Torvi took off in a surprisingly speedy run, her muscles fueled by adrenaline, determination, and something almost unnatural. Mina's protests were drowned out by the pounding of Torvi's footsteps as they darted through the forest, the sounds of pursuit growing fainter behind them.

After a few minutes of rapid movement, Torvi slowed her pace, her muscles burning with exertion. She glanced over her shoulder to ensure they were not about to be caught before releasing Mina, albeit keeping a vigilant eye on her.

"Sorry about the dramatics, but I needed to get his attention," Torvi explained quickly, her voice low and urgent. "You will be safe soon, I promise."

Mina's expression was a mix of confusion and anger, her eyes darting between Torvi and the surrounding darkness. She seemed to understand the gravity of the situation, albeit reluctantly.

Torvi's attention shifted momentarily as she let out a soft, melodic howl, calling Fenrys to her side. She had instructed the dire wolf earlier in the night to keep close, but remain hidden so as not to frighten others. Soon enough, the massive dire wolf emerged from the shadows, his golden eyes fixated on Torvi with unwavering loyalty.

"Fenrys will take you from here," Torvi reassured Mina, her tone softer now, laced with a hint of concern. "He will ensure your safety and guide you away from danger. Perhaps back to that man that was frantic about you. A lover?"

“That’s none of your damn business!” Mina snapped at Torvi as she hesitantly moved towards the wolf. Torvi simply chuckled at the woman, her outburst being all the answer she needed. With a gentle hand, Torvi helped Mina onto Fenrys' back, the dire wolf offering a comforting nuzzle before bounding off into the depths of the forest, his powerful form disappearing into the darkness.

Turning her attention back to the direction from which Roman would inevitably come barreling through, Torvi's wild grin widened as she prepared herself for the impending encounter. The thrill of the chase coursed through her veins, anticipation building as she braced herself for the exhilarating clash with the formidable bear-man. “Now we let the fun really begin…”

---

Meanwhile…

As Fenrys bounded through the forest, Mina's breath was taken away by the sheer speed and power of the dire wolf beneath her. For a moment, fear gripped her heart as she realized she was alone with this seemingly wild animal, her mind racing with thoughts of survival.

Am I going to survive this? I’m pretty sure this thing could easily kill me and eat me… she wondered, her voice barely above a whisper as she clung to Fenrys' fur, her fingers trembling with adrenaline.

Just as panic threatened to overwhelm her, Fenrys slowed his pace, his massive form gradually coming to a stop in the path of a frantic man. With a soft whine, he turned his head to reveal himself and a trembling Mina to Munir.

Mina's breath caught in her throat as she saw him, her heart skipping a beat at the sight of his familiar face. “Munir…” she murmured softly, her voice filled with both gratitude and vulnerability as she slowly slid off of the wolf who bowed respectfully to the prince.

---

Charlotte led Fritz out of the bustling ballroom and into the expansive foyer of the Damien estate. The sudden emptiness that surrounded them was a welcome yet eerie contrast to the crowded room they had just left behind. Stepping onto the polished black and white tiles she turned to face Fritz, her expression gentle and concerned.

"Fritz," she began softly. She reached out a hand to gently rest on his arm, her touch light and reassuring. "I want you to know I am so, so grateful for all the help you’ve given me. You’re truly a wonderful friend and it deeply troubles me to think that my actions might have caused you even a modicum of discomfort. Please know that I am ready to listen.”

Ryn reciprocated the gesture with an equally gentle smile, a reflection of the sentiment offered. “I’m afraid I’ve done little to deserve such praise and gratitude. … Thank you.” The smile waned, a shadow of sadness creeping into his expression, as he continued, “But, if you genuinely consider me a friend, why did you say you were alright when we asked how you were doing?”

“Ah.” "she murmured softly, a flicker of understanding dawning in her eyes.

"I wanted to be..." she began, her voice trailing off slightly. "Alright that is. I may perhaps have been in a state of disarray more than I was willing to admit, not just to you… But also to myself. I had intended to share my experience and for some reason I simply did not. ”

After a momentary introspection, a soft sigh escaped her lips as she confessed, "The truth is, it's been a while since I've had consistent companionship from others besides those within my household. “

She paused, fumbling with a lock of her hair as she added, “ I suppose you could say I'm a bit out of practice. I apologize for not being forthright with you."

“... ‘Friendship is a double-edged sword.’” Ryn repeated the words he said to her a few days ago. “It takes courage to let someone in, especially after enduring heartbreak and disappointment.”

He gazed at Lady Vikena with empathy in his eyes. “I cannot fault you for being cautious. We all have our pasts, our scars that shape us. And Creators know that there are things I’m withholding from you too.” As he placed a hand over his heart, Ryn closed his eyes. “I am afraid of being hurt and hurting others.” When he opened his eyes, this time, he offered a bittersweet smile. “But… I also know I have to take the first step.”

Ryn extended his hand, an invitation. “Will you walk this path with me, Charlotte? It would mean a lot to me if we could learn to trust and confide in each other, knowing that we have each other’s best interests at heart… What do you say?”

Charlotte looked down at his hand, her gaze softening and a small smile forming. With a gentle yet decisive movement, she reached out and clasped his hand in hers, intertwining their fingers. “Of course, Fritz… I suppose I can then take the next step and tell you what was upsetting me earlier.” She freed his hand after the moment had passed.

Soothingly rubbing her own forearm all the while, she explained, “...Earlier, the ballroom seemed to visually change before my eyes. It was as if I was dreaming.” She paused to see his expression before continuing, "I-I don't know how to explain it," she began, her words faltering as she struggled to find the right description. "It was like... like I was transported to another time, another place. The room, the colors, the music—it all felt so vivid, so real. "

Her gaze drifted into the distance, as if she could still see the phantom figures twirling in the ballroom of her memory. "... This man looked at me with those familiar brown eyes... and for a moment, I felt like I was seeing a ghost. But he wasn't a ghost, he was right there…reaching out to me."

Charlotte's hand instinctively slid up to touch her own, as if to reassure herself that she was still anchored in the present. "But then, just as quickly as he appeared, he was gone and the ballroom was normal again."

Ryn’s thumb rubbed his upper lip as he listened to Lady Vikena’s—Charlotte’s account. “Has this ever happened before?”

She shook her head to indicate it had not.

His mind wandered down a list of possibilities for a few silent moments. The detail about the “familiar brown eyes” in particular drew his attention. She recognized the man and yet was not able to identify him. Implying that she did not actually know the man… or she had forgotten about him.

A sudden chill ran down Ryn’s spine at the word that had long haunted him seemed to be cropping up over the past few days. “Forgotten.” Was Black Rose here? It could explain the vision… If so, what did they want with Charlotte? Was it only Charlotte they wanted?

Ryn pulled out the small box from his pocket. “There’s something I need to show you.” He placed his hand over the lid while he stared at Charlotte straight in the eyes. “But before I do, you should know that when Ms. Delilah finds out I did exactly what she didn’t want me to do, she’ll chase me down and there’s a distinct possibility no one may ever find my body. I’d like you to ensure my epitaph is awe-inspiring.”

As Fritz's words hung in the air, Charlotte's brows furrowed in thought as she fixated on the box.
Her curiosity was evident in her expression. In reaction to his last comment, her lips curved into a wry smile, a glimmer of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Rest assured, Fritz," she replied, her voice tinged with determination," your epitaph will be so inspirational that even the gods themselves will envy it."

With a short laugh, Ryn took off his spectacles carefully and handed them over to her. “Put these on,” he instructed. He walked to the entrance of the ballroom and paused for Charlotte to follow after him. When she approached, he positioned himself behind her, leaning in to whisper, “Do you see anything out of the ordinary?” Shaking her head no, Ryn opened the small box he carried and extracted a single lens. The enchanted lens slid into place.

And the world changed.

The room erupted into a symphony of colors, each guest bathed in a unique aura that pulsed and shimmered with ethereal energy. Among the spectrum, she noticed that pink and white hues were the most prevalent colors enveloping their forms.

As her gaze wandered, Charlotte observed the subtle dance of shades, with yellows, blues, oranges, and greens emerging in a mesmerizing display. Each aura carried its own distinct character and appearance, even varying in size. Occasionally, she caught glimpses of red and purple, though they were far less common, lending an intriguing depth to the kaleidoscope of colors.

It was beautiful.

“Is this… a kaleidoscope of sorts?” She whispered in awe.

“I suppose, in a way it is. But unless I’m missing something, I wouldn’t think a simple kaleidoscope would make Ms. Delilah so worried for your well-being.” Combined with what he saw of Charlotte’s magicae, Ms. Delilah’s reaction to the topic of magic convinced Ryn that she not only knew more about the subject than she let on, but she also knew exactly what Charlotte was capable of. Something involving Charlotte must have happened to make Ms. Delilah so adamant about steering her mistress—her family—down a life untouched by magic.

Impossible.

Ryn gestured for Charlotte to look up at the ceiling above them. “Do you see how there are hardly any colors up there? That’s because the colors are coming from the people. What you’re seeing is magicae. Magical energy unique to each…” The count paused for a moment to choose the most accurate word. “…entity.” He studied Charlotte’s reaction to this information. “These lenses simply refracts it into a visible form.”

Charlotte’s gaze slid to her friends, picking them out one by one slowly and fixating on them for a brief moment. “I wonder if the colors signify something… Perhaps the amount of magicae?” She thoughtfully mused, eventually her eyes shifting toward him with curiosity—to see nothing. The world had gone back to normal.

Ryn’s expression lit up with excitement. “You’re very perceptive! It’s believed that hues represent a person’s ambitions. The only known exception is those with witchblood.” The words tumbled out faster than usual, but he was mindful to keep his voice no louder than a whisper. “There’s the imprint, or residue, of magicae you have to consider too, though. Did you see the darker-colored aura attached to Lord Smithwood? That’s most likely someone else’s magicae.”

“Their ambitions. “ Charlotte repeated thoughtfully and tapped her chin. “ I did. It does seem probable that someone did a spell on Leo so it makes sese. “ After a pause, she curiously asked, “What color is yours?”

“Currently? You’ll have to tell me that. Magicae can change. Over time and after an event that significantly impacts you as a person. I’ve only been paying attention to other’s magicae.” He jokingly posed for Charlotte while she checked, then he realized something. “Have you checked yours?”

“No, I did not get the chance.”

Glancing at his watch, he saw how much time had passed. “Oh, I’m sorry. I should’ve mentioned the enchantment’s limitation.” Not wanting to linger too long at the ballroom entrance, he led them back to a more secluded area. “The lenses can handle a certain amount of magicae exposure before turning into regular glass. If the magicae is too strong the enchantment barely lasts a second.” He pointed at the spectacles. “I can switch out that lens for a fresh one if you’d like.”

“Yes. I must admit I am awfully curious…”

He nodded. After exchanging the lenses Ryn took both of her hands and raised them so Charlotte could see both magicae at the same time.

Although to say “only both of their magicae” would be inaccurate.

For what surrounded the count was a menagerie of magicae. Distinctly different magical energies vied for dominance. The spells—curses or blessings—of others clung unyieldingly onto him.

Ryn remained silent as his black eyes remained fixed on Charlotte, full of worry. His grip on her hands tightened a little. “What… do you see?”

Charlotte’s eyes widened with surprise as her gaze locked on Fritz first, “Oh my… Yours has such a variety of colors… You must have many different ambitions I suppose or…” A frown slowly graced her face as she recalled what he had said about Leo’s aura. "Oh no, Fritz. I hope there isn't anyone trying to come after you, is there?" She anxiously squeezed his hand.

A “variety of colors”... not just one. They were still with him and he was still him. Relief rushed through Ryn, even as he confirmed Charlotte’s concern. “There is. Do you remember our conversation when I walked you home after the royal ball? You said that your mother warned you that it was too dangerous for you to wander about at night, and I said it can be difficult for certain people to walk out in the open, no matter the hour. For me, that place has always been Caesonia, especially here in Sorian, so close to the throne.”

Ryn studied his hand, imagining a myriad of magicae swarming his being. “As for these…These are the consequences of my choices both good and bad. All I can do is carry them with me, and try to make the choices mean something.” A sad half-smile tugged at his lips. “People might disagree, and it’s not like I have evidence, but I believe not all magical imprints come from spells. I think the intense sentiment of others, their spirit you can call it, can also leave a mark on you. And that holds as much power as any magic… I have an obligation to these people to press onward, no matter what.” Even if it means relinquishing the essence of Ryn. For Ryn, as a person, was inconsequential in the face of his people’s welfare.

Charlotte listened intently, her expression softening with compassion. “I hope you press on for the sake of yourself as well, Fritz. And whenever you’re comfortable, maybe you can share more about who would target you and why here in Sorian that is? If I can be of assistance, I will do what I can to help protect you.” Her attention then shifted to her own aura, and a subtle unease flickered across her features.

"There's something about mine that seems…” She hesitated, searching for the right word, but instead decided to pose a question.

"Do you happen to know what each color signifies?" She inquired, her tone tinged with curiosity and a hint of apprehension.

[color=9354FF]“I’m not comfortable going into the details here, so I’ll keep it short. People with white magicae aren’t proficient with magic. Some say that it’s because they ‘lack of ambition’ or are satisfied with their life. Pink magicae holders have mundane ambitions. Red magicae makes the person susceptible to magical addiction and their ambition tends to revolve around vengeance. Oranges’ ambition is related to feelings, like wanting to be loved. Yellows desire freedom. Greens crave power or wealth. Blues are… very unhappy.”

After listing the common magicae colors, he paused for a moment. “Witchbloods have purple magicae. They come from a bloodline of witches. It’s said the brighter the purple, the greater the power and longer the witch lineage.”

When Ryn paused again, he squeezed Charlotte’s hands, preemptively comforting her. “Dark witches have black magicae and are dangerously powerful. You have to be very careful with these people… they’re not well known for their kindness.”

“ Oh… “ Charlotte's voice trailed off as she absorbed Fritz's explanation. She glanced down at her hands, feeling a weight of uncertainty settling in her chest. The world she thought she knew was far more complex and nuanced than she had ever imagined.

Despite the feelings swirling within her, Charlotte turned her gaze back to Fritz, offering a tentative smile tinged with gratitude. "Thank you for sharing this with me," she said sincerely, her tone warm with appreciation. "It's… a lot to take in, but I'm glad to know more about it."

“Ms. Delilah may disagree with you on that.” Ryn hesitated. “Charlotte. I suspect Ms. Delilah and your parents knew about this in some capacity. In fact, it’s possible there are people outside of your household who know too. That vision you saw… could’ve been a magic user reaching out to you. What I’m worried about is if they’re with Black Rose.”

A frown creased Charlotte’s brow as she considered his words. She then asked with a tone laced with some apprehension, “ But what would the Black Rose want with me?”

“Well, based on what we know so far, I can only speculate.” Ryn shrugged his shoulders. “They could’ve caught wind of you asking around about their party. Perhaps they noticed how charming you are and they couldn’t resist extending an invitation to their mysterious and not at all shady party.”

“I am determined to attend the next one, invitation or not.”

“Not without me or Lord Smithwood, I hope.”

Charlotte nodded distractedly, continuing,“It could have less to do with you specifically, and more about who you are related to or have ties with… Maybe it’s about your parents. There’s also a chance you’ve forgotten something that happened to you which would explain their interest in you.” Ryn met Charlotte’s eyes. “Knowing what you know now... do you think the truth you’ve been searching for all this time might be magic-related?”

Charlotte crossed her arms thoughtfully. “I … I have no idea. I don’t remember my parents having anything to do with magic. This week’s really the first I’ve seen evidence of it. “ She said, her gaze lowering, “Given what’s happened, I’m almost sure the truth must have something to do with it.”

At first, he said nothing as he watched her movements. Then Ryn offered a measured nod, “Whatever the reason, if they are here, it’d be wise to stay alert and try to avoid being alone.” Though should they resort to magic the advantage of numbers might scarcely tip the scales in her favor.

When she said nothing in response, he took note of her silence. “Charlotte, can I ask a few favors?”

She frowned, drumming her fingers on her arm. Her eyes shifted to his and she replied with a smile, “Certainly.”

“Please don’t tell us everything’s okay if it isn’t.”

She took a deep breath, searching for the right words.

Finally, Charlotte decided to be more honest with him than she ever had been, silently hoping he’d understand her wish at the end of her statement, "I don't know if things are okay... Not yet, at least," she replied, her expression grave as she mulled over her thoughts. "Calbert's behavior this morning was... peculiar, to say the least. For instance, he handed out multiple invitations and then had his staff member Henry hand out three, four....? And the man seemed to have a mental list in his head come to think of it, the way he went from person to person without a second thought. Calbert’s certainly up to something and feeling smug of himself tonight. He made be hiding himself with a mask but that mask says what he’s feeling more than the expression behind it ever could.”

Her countenance grew apologetic as she confessed, “I have a plan to get him to spill the beans, however, it’s risky and it’s something I must do alone.”

Ryn’s eyes grew wide in surprise before he chuckled, “Every now and then you really surprise me, Charlotte.” The smile faded, but it lingered at the fringes. “Is this something you must do on your own or is it something you believe you must do alone?”

“I must do it alone.” She clarified with conviction.

“In which case.” Ryn extended his hand, palm upturned. “May I have a lock of your hair?” He knew how strange the request must seem. Or perhaps not, given Charlotte’s newfound openness about magic. “I trust you,” he continued, “but if I don’t see you leave this estate and get home safely, I will use it to find you and call in the cavalry.”

Charlotte was thoughtful for a moment before she plucked a hair from her head with a small wince. She offered it toward him. “Fair enough.“

“Thank you.” Ryn carefully wrapped her hair in a handkerchief before storing it away in his inner pocket.

“My second favor,” He reminded Charlotte. “Is that you don’t forget that we’re in this together. We might not be able to do what you must do alone, but we can support you so you successfully can. It would mean a lot to me, and I’m sure Lord Smithwood, if you relied on us more.”

“Really? … I do appreciate you two. I will keep you both looped in best I can.” She smiled faintly. Charlotte wasn’t so used to people so adamant about caring about her; it felt kind of nice. “I will be okay. I promise. I just truly believe it’s less risky for me rather than anyone else to go through with this plan.”

“Is there anything we can do for you in the meantime?”

“...Please look after Leo and Olivia in my brief absence.”

“You’re greatly overestimating my level of maturity if you believe Lord Smithwood and Ms. Olivia need looking after, but I don’t.” Ryn chuckled and nodded. “There are a few people I would like to talk to while I have the chance, but I will try to keep an eye on them as best as I can.”

“Be careful, Charlotte, and good luck.” He added, “If things go bad, don’t hesitate to scream for help.”

---

---

The crack and crash of broken trees resounded through the forest with heavy footsteps. Something proclaiming its presence like this was not to be trifled with as most animals would rather not have their presence be known. Having the protection of the spirits by possession did grant the lumbering beast some authority to announce itself as an apex predator. Taking on the aspects of the bear he wore, a bear that normally would be 3 times the size of a regular man that livid in a place far to the north that seemed hostile to life itself.

The rage and sorrow he felt from the spirits of this land surged through him. Unwanted death, destruction, ecological devastation, and magical tampering, over thousands of years coursed through his veins and his soul. Threatening every moment to be lost to it. To the madness of a spiritual world eaten away by the greed of humanity. All this focused on one thing, protect her. A lesser soul would be torn asunder and fractured like a dingy in a hurricane. Yet roman held fast against the storm… for now.

Tearing into the clearing he continued at her, his enemy. like an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object two powerful forces threatened to collide. The man moved as if running on instinct but reacted like he was being controlled by multiple forces at once. Forces that tore at his muscles and pushed him to a state he would normally never be able to achieve. Yet even knowing his opponent would know that this was not meant to last and eventually he would go down hard.

Well looky there, a pretty face was enough to distract the fife wielding former baker. Maybe it wouldn’t be that hard to get away from her surveillance. Should he just leave without a word? … Nah.

As the drinking game commenced, he scanned the contestants, looking for any signs that the drink was getting to them. Eventually his focus narrowed to a pink-faced gent who swayed back and forth in an unsteady rhythm fueled by alcohol. Peter sidled up close, readying himself for the right moment.

Next round came around and Peter tapped the man’s shoulder. He turned clumsy-like and - wham! - his drink went flying right into Peter, soaking his duds clean through.

Poor fella’s so soused it took him a minute to realize what happened, but the look on his face when it hit? Priceless.

“Welp.” Peter gave the man a pat on the shoulder. “Reckon it’s time for you to head home and for me to get myself cleaned up.” Calling out to one of C-Bert’s servants, he said, “Gotta borrow the washroom.” He didn’t have to say why, they understood well enough and hurried Peter out of the ballroom without further ado.