Well, the previous night had been an interesting peek into higher society. There had been a surprising number of participants for a drinking game. If she thought about it, the nobles probably put a lot of effort into keeping such tendencies behind closed doors. According to the report on Stratya's desk, the doors at the masquerade were not, perhaps, as closed as they were supposed to be. Ah, but she knew that already. If she weren't knighted, there was no way she'd have gotten in. Though she had a way of endearing herself with the guards and lower class with her friendly personality, she knew better than to think she could get in to such an event with such charm alone.

However he got in, she doubted the thief from that night had such a rapport with the guards. Perhaps someone had gotten them in. The young lady he was with? Stratya hadn’t gotten much of a look at her at all. Ah well. She'd had a bit of fun, in the end, and slipped off to a tavern after all the nobles retired. There, she had a single beer more, a nice meal, and then a pint of water before she left the tavern and went to the barracks and to bed.

Mm. She may have taught the tavern a new drinking game over her beer and following pint of water, if she thought about it.

All that drinking meant she was a bit late to rise. The drinking, which.. she.. remembered. Good. Her head had felt better, but she had more water and a good breakfast to help her noggin.
She found a sealed envelope placed on her desk, along with other notices. She’d learned reading and writing quite quickly, since coming from her village, though she did keep a dictionary in her desk, as well. Words like “confidential” didn’t tend to occur much in a small place like her home village. She’d needed the reference book less and less, as things go, and these days she scarcely had to use it at all. A few folks back in her village could read a little bit, but knighthood had driven her to greater proficiency. It meant she could read letters like all these confidential intelligence reports she’d received this morning. There were quite a lot of them, and one was in regards to the party she attended last night. While she already knew about that, much of the rest of the information she recieved was new to her. An immediate concern was the stable boy, Darryn. Depending on the nature of his disappearance, it might be related to some of these other alerts.
She’d wasted enough of the day sleeping, it was time to get about her business.

Stratya took to the streets in a mixture of medium and light armor, with just a few pieces of heraldry to go with it. They had guests who would not recognize the knights of the kingdom the way a local would, so it was best to be recognizable.
Speaking of being recognized, she wasn’t a full building length from the barracks before she started hearing about the stench coming from the stables. From the descriptions and the prevalence of complaints, it wasn’t your normal stench. She had a hard time thinking it was merely someone slacking on their cleaning duties. As she made the short trip to the royal stables, she began to pick up on the odor. She started to pick up wafts of it from far away, and got the feeling in her gut that told her it was the stench in question. It was bad, some kind of rotting meat, she had to guess.
She followed her nose and the complaints past the moat and the inner defensive walls, giving a short nod to the guards she passed on the way. The stables, toward the rear of the castle. “Ooh, it's rancid.” The knight grimaced as she approached the Royal stables, the odor stronger than ever. “Urg, it's ‘ere, alrigh’..”
Her nose told her it was the stable itself, but she was having a hard time following the scent due to how awful it was, though she noticed the odor was not much worse inside the stables, maybe even better (though it was hard to tell). It was probably outside, then. She produced a handkerchief from within her armor and held it over her nose, resigning to using her wits and eyes from here. It didn't take her long, the first thing she did was wander around behind the building and,
“Aww, Gods be good..” she found the stable boy. Rather, she found something very important of his. She could barely recognize him, the way his jaw had been mangled. Shattered and beaten.. the sword she could only assume was used to sever the poor stable boy’s head from his shoulders was there, but she had to wonder if that was what had killed him. He might have been beaten to death. It was hard to recognize him, with the savaging apparent on his face and jaw. She sighed heavily (groaned, really), drew a deep breath, and “guard!” She needed to keep anyone from coming back here and messing with this scene. And probably let someone else know about this. They'll need a new stable boy..
While she awaited the response, she would begin examining the scene. Had blood been spilled on the ground here? If it were her, she'd try to wash it away. Did it look like much water had been poured here? She needed to determine if Darryn had been killed here or not. Had it been last night, during the two large events? It would have been an excellent time, with most noteworthy persons out of the castle. What bothered her most, though, was.. why?

Time:Evening
Location: Calbert's Estate
Attire: Hair Style, Dress
Interaction:@FunnyGuy Lorenzo
Mention: @Potter Olivia @ReusableSword Roman

---

The morning light crept into Charlotte’s bedroom, bathing her in a warm glow as she sat quietly on the window sill. Still dressed in a flowing white nightgown, she somberly stared out at the world outside her room, the sound of the morning birds and leaves rustling in the breeze a gentle background to her steady thoughts. Her gaze was fixed on a large, old willow tree that was just in reach. Its branches swayed slightly, each leaf a bright green under the touch of the sunlight.

Yet, the beauty of the morning did little to lift the heaviness in her heart. The events of the previous night played back in her mind—a whirlwind of masked faces, threats, and a dance that felt like both an escape and another trouble that would surely brew. She felt drained, even after the long rest, as if each step she had taken to the window had drawn a little more strength from her soul.

As she leaned her head on the wooden frame of the window, a small twitch in her vision on a lower branch of the tree caught her attention. Her gaze soon settled on a little bird, its feathers ruffled and unkempt. It was perched precariously close to the edge. With each labored breath, its tiny chest rose and fell in rapid, struggling gasps. Charlotte's heart clenched at the sight as she furrowed her brows.

She reached out a hand slowly, careful not to startle the suffering bird. The bird didn’t resist as she scooped it into her palms as it was too weak to fly away. Bringing it close to her chest, she could feel the fragile pulse of its tiny heart, a faint flutter against her skin.

Sitting back against the cool frame with the bird cradled softly between her hands, she delicately stroked its blue feathers with her fingertip, barely touching the soft plumage. "It's alright, darling. You're not alone anymore." Over time, the bird seemed to relax slightly, its breaths less fraught. Charlotte watched it with a sadness that welled up from a place deep within her that she couldn't quite source.

There was a reflective pause then, suddenly, she began to sing in a voice that was low and tender:

Music [+]

Close your eyes, my little angel,
On a branch on this tree, under the leaves of the willow,
I found you here today,
And now you're safe,
As the morning embraces us,
I'm here with you.

Rest your wings now dear, the night is over now,
And you're here with me, as the new day dawns.
Close your eyes now, my dear little one,
We're together, and together we'll always be.
In my embrace, please find a sweet dream,
You'll never have another thing to fear.
So close your eyes and here we'll stay.
In this morning dream, it'll just be you and me.

So close your eyes now dear, my little angel,
I found you here today,
Under the leaves of the willow,
As the morning embraces us,
I'm right here with you.
And right here in my heart, you'll always be.

Her lullaby filled the air, at times louder than Charlotte had even noticed. Singing, and certainly music in general, had always been an outlet for her since childhood, but it had been one she had long set aside over the past year. As she sang, the first rays of the sun illuminated her face, casting her in a light that reflected the tears welling in her eyes. The bird's eyes slowly closed, and as the final note of her song drifted into the morning air, it seemed to find peace. Charlotte held it a moment longer, her tearing eyes locked on the bird. Then, gently, she placed it back onto the branch, her heart heavy but a smile forming on her lips.

"I hope you found a lovely dream." She whispered.

It hadn't been long after that when Delilah knocked on her door, and the two of them had climbed into her bed to have their morning tea ritual. Delilah would always bring the two of them team then they'd return to the warmth of the bed and chat over the newspaper. She was weary to find out that once again she and Lorenzo made the headlines and had groaned reading the gossip. Her sigh escaped her lips as she read on, her dismay deepening when she learned that Roman, one of the sweetest people from the Varian Kingdom, made the headlines as well for some reason. She made a mental note to herself to check on him.

Delilah, meanwhile, shifted the conversation toward the day's events. She mentioned that Lorenzo had requested Charlotte's company at the church event, while Olivia had expressed a desire to attend the Courting Mixer. Relieved to hear of Olivia's improved spirits, Charlotte requested that Delilah accompany Olivia and watch over her. The maid was luckily always pleased to go anywhere with mimosas and had even told her all about how she was going to drag Gilbert along. Charlotte had listened with a knowing smile.

As the sun had risen higher in the sky, Delilah asked at the conversation's finality, "... Will you be alright at the church? You've seem down this morning."

"Of course, Delilah." Charlotte told her with a warm smile. " I found out perhaps things may be more difficult than I thought they were going to be... " She perked up and raised her fist, "But I will not yield! ... Just as Gunther of Tides said. "

Delilah took her hands tenderly, "Neither of us will... The morning sun always returns after the long night."

An hour later, Charlotte entered the estate's foyer, attired in a simple blue dress edged with lace at the neckline and her hair tied back with her customary ribbon. She greeted Lorenzo warmly, embracing him without hesitation before they both stepped into the carriage. Upon arriving at the church, they were greeted by the sight of crowded pews, the noise briefly overwhelming. With a slight frown, Charlotte leaned toward her stepfather and whispered, "All in favor of sitting in the back...?"

Time: Morning
Location: Munir's Room
Attire: Munir's Shirt
Interaction: @Infinite Cosmos Munir
Mentions:



When Munir gently picked up her hands, Mina couldn't help but feel a flicker of warmth amidst the turmoil within her. His kisses felt like soft whispers of reassurance, a reminder of the connection they shared. Yet she still couldn't bring herself to look at him as she lay her head on her knees that she'd been previously gripping tightly. Silent tears had begun to fall as she tried desperately to get a hold of herself and calm her racing heart.

As Munir released her hands and lifted her face to meet his, Mina found herself lost in the depths of his eyes. His words washed over her, filling her with a sense of both comfort and uncertainty. Was he being truthful? Had his words really only been a joke? Wasn't there always some truth to jokes? So many questions raced through her mind, but she tried to shove them away and really focus on what was being said now, believing what was said in this moment.

When he asked her to promise never to shed another tear because of him, Mina hesitated. She understood his intentions, his desire to shield her from pain, but she couldn't bring herself to make such a promise. Instead, she gently touched his cheek, her thumb tracing the contours of his face.

"I can't promise you that, Munir," she said softly, her voice tinged with sadness. "Life is unpredictable, and relationships are complex. Tears are a natural part of being human, and I can't guarantee that we'll never face challenges or hardships. But what I can promise you is this: I will always communicate with you, openly and honestly. We'll face whatever comes our way together, and we'll work through it, no matter how difficult it may be."

Mina's eyes searched Munir's, hoping he would understand the depth of what she was saying. "I promise to always be here for you, to support you, and to love you with all that I am," she continued, her voice steady with determination. Then Mina took a deep breath. "But we can't discuss marriage until I know you understand me, my plights, and what could be coming in the future," she added firmly, her voice steady despite the lingering traces of uncertainty. "I still have more to tell you, what I've told you so far is only the tip of the iceberg."

She reached out, gently placing her hand over Munir's heart, feeling the steady rhythm beneath her touch. "I need you to be fully aware of who I am and what I carry with me every single day, Munir," she continued, her tone earnest. "Only then can we truly decide if marriage is something we both want and are ready for."

Mina's expression softened as she searched Munir's face, a silent plea for understanding and patience shining in her eyes. "I want nothing more than to share my life with you, but I need to know that you're ready to accept all of me, including the parts that may be difficult or challenging, and I need you to realize this isn't a joke," she explained, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "Can you promise me that, Munir?” Perhaps there was a twinge of bitterness to her voice, upset that at first he couldn't take her confession seriously and made a joke out of it, but she hadn't been lying when she said they'd face challenges together and work through them. She knew that bitter feeling would fade before long.

Location: Where the magic happens
Interactions: @Taewifey

Munir listened to Mina intently. Taking in each word and phrase she said and making sure that he truly understood what she was getting at. In truth, he has never been good at facing adversity. He hasn't had to face many and the ones he did have to face were easily dismissed with money or status. Hearing what Mina was saying made him realize that a relationship, and by extension marriage, is no child's play. Committing one's life and future to another should always be taken and considered seriously.

"I am sorry that I made a jest at your plight. I know no amount of explaining I do now will erased the horrible feelings I've caused in you. It wasn't and never has been my intention. In truth, I make jokes and I jest to escape from facing the harshness of life. Being a noble, I've been privileged to live a life of ease and comfort. Anything I wanted I had. Any difficulty I faced melted away when enough coins gets thrown at it. It's how it has always been for me. I'm beginning to realize that what I asked of you requires just as much, if not more, commitment from myself. I know I am ready for it. I just need to be able to show you. Yes. I promise you. I want to learn you. I want to know all of you. Inside, and out. Tell me everything. and I will do the same. I promise to commit myself to you. Physically. Mentally. Spiritually. We will face any challenges and difficulties that may come our way together."

Munir said to Mina. His eyes burned with passion but his expressions were soft and genuine. The woman is the love of his life. If he cannot be vulnerable with her, then who?

It didn’t take long for Sjan-dehk and Iyen to find the temple. The radiant morning sun was still where it had been when they left the docks – lingering midway between the horizon and its zenith – and that alone was far more than what could be said for Sjan-dehk when he navigated the city on his own.

That little fact didn’t escape Iyen’s notice – how she even found out about it was a mystery – and she used it to its fullest extent to tease Sjan-dehk. For the most part, he didn’t particularly mind. If this was all it took to get a rise out of him, the two of them wouldn’t even be friends. And besides, she deserved to have a bit of fun, and he somewhat deserved to have that fun be done at his expense. Iyen had been the one to read the map and lead the way this entire time, after all, and she had done a good job of it. Far better than what he would have done, Sjan-dehk had to admit.

He just wished that she would stop playing jump rope with the boundary between teasing and gloating.

“This wasn’t so hard, was it?” Iyen’s grin was full of unrestrained smugness, and her eyes didn’t twinkle as much as they scintillated with wicked mischief. Loose strands of hair hung like black, wispy vines down the sides of her face, and tickled her cheeks. The corners of her lips rose even higher. “Really, a Captain such as you shouldn’t have any trouble finding his way around. Or should I say, ‘charting his course’? That’s the way sea-faring provincials like you put it, isn’t it?”

Sjan-dehk grumbled beneath his breath. “You’re just as provincial as I am, Sudhrayarn,” he shot back, but his words lacked strength. There wasn’t much for him to say, not when Iyen’s navigation had brought them here, in the midst of the crowd gathering before the temple’s doors. He pulled his hat a little lower over his eyes to shade them from the sun’s glare. “Charting a course at sea’s completely different from finding one building among hundreds that look the damn same in a city this fucking confusing.”

Iyen giggled. “Excuses, excuses,” she sang and danced a few steps ahead. When Sjan-dehk didn’t follow, and she saw how utterly unimpressed he looked, she returned to his side and gave him an affectionate pat on the shoulder. “Don’t worry, Young Marcher Prince. You’re still a brave and intrepid sailor to me. One I’d follow all the way to the ends of the world.”

Despite Iyen trying to placate him as she would a child, Sjan-dehk chuckled. “If by ‘ends of the world’, you mean the Kokinshun islands, then you’ve already done that many times.” He cast her a sideways look and a cheeky grin. “Might want to consider changing your words. Otherwise one might think you’re insincere.”

“Oh, it’s the thought that counts with such things. Besides, I came all the way here with you, didn’t I?” Iyen replied and took him by the arm. “Anyway, let’s hurry. We’re not going to find out what these people pray to by standing around out here!”

There wasn’t much Sjan-dehk could do apart from allowing himself to be dragged by Iyen as she barrelled through the crowd. For someone with a physique as slender as hers, she had little trouble pushing people easily twice her size aside, and each time with a friendly smile and word of excuse. Unfortunately, she said it all in Viserjantan, leaving Sjan-dehk the trouble of providing hurried translations and additional apologies to those who had the misfortune of being in her way. She only stopped and released Sjan-dehk once they were at the base of the steps leading up and into the temple itself. Dark grey stone, joined by pale mortar, towered over them. Panes of coloured glass decorated the walls, and ornately carved statues stared down imperiously from the roof’s edge.

“Impressive place,” Iyen remarked.

“That, it is,” Sjan-dehk agreed and immediately turned to look at her. “You’re sure you won’t get the both of us kicked out dressed like that?”

Iyen clicked her tongue. “What’s that supposed to mean? I’m perfectly decent.”

“By Sudhrayarn standards, yes,” Sjan-dehk replied drily. Iyen’s clothes were still largely similar to what she had been wearing earlier, aboard Sudah, and therein laid the problem. Most of the people here – the ones he could see, at least – were dressed rather modestly. Nothing fancy or elaborate, just clothes that left far more to the imagination than what Iyen wore. Her shirt was little more than an decorated strip of cloth that was wrapped tight around her chest, leaving her shoulders and belly exposed. And while her skirt reached down to her calves, the thin fabric favoured by the Sudhrayarns were almost translucent in the radiance of the Caesonian sun. Thankfully, the pants she wore underneath still left plenty to the imagination.

Iyen rolled her eyes. “When did you become so…So fashion conscious?”

“I’m not,” Sjan-dehk said with a shrug. “I just don’t want this to become another Som Dran Incident. You do remember what happened then, don’t you?”

“Sjan-dehk, they didn’t throw me out because of what I wore. They threw us out because someone tried to touch me and I almost gelded him.” She smirked. “And you got thrown out because you just jumped in and almost turned a small fight into a full battle. Which reminds me, are you sure you want to go into a place of worship looking like you want to pick a fight with their Gods?”

“Yes,” Sjan-dehk’s response was instantaneous. He didn’t like the idea of being disarmed, and besides, no God worth that title should be worried about one man armed with only two swords and two pistols. “Maybe I’m the one who misremembered. Sorry. I think the fight's really what stayed in my memory. Was a good one, I think.” He gave Iyen an apologetic nod, who looked as if she wanted to say something, but settled on waving it off with a smile. Then, Sjan-dehk pulled out one of his spare shirts, which he had tucked between his shoulder-belt and his body. “I grabbed this when I got my weapons from Sada Kurau. You might as well take it since I brought it all the way here.”

Iyen tittered and accepted the shirt. “My, what a gallant Captain,” she teased. “Are you that worried about me? You know as well asI do that I can take care of myself. Anyone who tries anything would have to deal with this–” she patted the curved sword and pistol sheathed and holstered on her left, then the rope coiled around her waist “–and this.”

Sjan-dehk grinned. “It’s not you who I’m concerned over. It’s whoever that offends you. Lady Adiyan would skin us both alive if we ended today with a murder, however justified it might be. I hear that that’s not great for establishing trade relations. Or relations of any kind.”

“I’ve heard the same,” Iyen replied with a laugh. She threw Sjan-dehk’s shirt around her shoulders and tied the sleeves over her chest, wearing it much like a cape. “Oh, by the way,” she began as they quickly went up the steps. “Do you know anything about what’s happening here? I’ve heard talk that they’re going to be worshipping their king or something.”

Sjan-dehk frowned. “No, I haven’t,” he replied truthfully. How did Iyen hear of such things, when she spent far more time away from the city than he? Sjan-dehk decided against asking. Iyen’s ways were mysterious and sometimes better left unknown. “But that can’t be. I just saw their king a few days ago. Unless they’ve got a damn good sorcerer on their payroll using his corpse like a puppet, he was alive then and he’s likely alive now. Worshipping someone still living…” He wrinkled his nose. “That’s just not right.”

Iyen was quiet for a moment. “Do you think they’re going to sacrifice him?” She asked casually. “Make him a deity by giving him a hand in ascending?”

“Careful, your Sudhrayarn instincts are showing.”

A playful punch to his shoulder was Iyen’s immediate response. “Oh, shut up,” she said. It was clear in her tone that she wasn’t offended in the least. “We haven’t done that since three centuries ago. Two at least, if you want to be one of those hair-splitting scholar types.”

“Well, I hope it’s not a sacrifice,” Sjan-dehk said flatly. “Going to be hard to explain to Lady Adiyan that the king we want to negotiate with decided to up and become a God.”

A huge portrait of the King, mounted in an elaborate – almost overly so – altar which dominated the entire temple, was what greeted Sjan-dehk and Iyen as they stepped onto the polished marble floor. As the two of them quietly made their way to a corner far to the back, they noticed more portraits of the King hanging from the rafters. There was even a painting of his face on the floor, something which struck Sjan-dehk as a particularly confusing decision. Either the King was inviting others to walk on his face, or he was making it difficult for his own people to walk through the temple. Neither seemed befitting of anyone holding a title of that stature. A deep discomfort filled Sjan-dehk. This didn’t feel like any religious service he knew.

Iyen felt the same. “By the Shadowed Green, what’s going on here?” She asked in a hushed whisper.

Sjan-dehk shook his head. He didn’t know. But he did have a good guess. “I think we just found ourselves a cult.”

Time: Mid-late morning
Location: Sorian Beach-> Blossom Cafe
Interactions:
Mentions:

The morning light crept in, bathing him in its burning glow. A faint itch to his eye-lids stirred the blonde from sleep;

That itch then turned into burning and as Kazu further awakened, he felt a painful ache from his hands. The sudden jolting pain from both forced his body to burst upward, only to feel something hard and metallic smack the top back of his head.

A slew of loud curses and metallic clanging of tins and kitchen equipment being knocked over.” Ah ya bloody fuckwit! Ya *beep* *beep of all the stupid *beep* *beep* you son of a mule’s *beep beep beep*”

The string of insults flung at the sun and whatever else caused him such an unpleasant way to wake up. With a pained grunt, Kazu plopped back down against the stack of boxes he had been propped against, the overcoat lying to his left, seemingly having been draped over him like a blanket.

” Whoever said a sunshine’s kiss is a blessing can kiss my mule's ass.” He grumbled with a derisive scoff; gingerly touching the small lump now formed on his head, immediately regretting doing so as he was reminded again of his hand’s soreness.

“ Ach! Shucks sakes! Fuck!” Sitting upright to check and inspect his hands, where he would see they were red and still partially wrinkly leaving them sore and raw to the touch.

A sudden montage of intense, nonstop dishwashing and endless piles of filthy dishes while quick glimpses of the head server shouting at him; insults or instructions, the confused and tired farmboy could not differentiate.” So..much..scrubbing. No more…”

A shuddering gasp left his lips as the montage ended leaving him sitting there shaking with an incredulous expression from what truly tarnished his mood.” ….of all the things to get a montage on and it gets wasted on washing dishes…”

The cowlicked farmer groaned lamentingly at the lameness of this morning’s start. At this point almost preferring he had woken up from a drunken bender over this.

As he worked to rub the sleep from his eyes and get himself reoriented; taking in the kitchen around him. A few seconds later he remembered that he was at the snow-cone shop and the memories of last night soon poured in upon the realization.

Recalling something about Leo's watch, though he had no interest in that, Kazu's attention shifted to Calbert approaching and cornering Olivia (Percy). He was torn between wanting to help her and feeling bitter about the risks involved. Ultimately, he decided to hang back and wait for an opportunity when she or Charlotte were alone.

Sadly, before that could be the case a certain head server had come into the picture. A hastily thrown-together disguise was seen through… who could have thought.” Tch, next time I see that silver-tongued Rat, I’ll be shoving the scrubbing brush down that vile cakehole of his!” Brandishing a scrub brush half his arm’s length, a devious smirk.

The sound of footsteps could be heard drawing towards the kitchen door, where Molly would poke her head in with a nervous.” Hello? If it’s you bleedin raccoons again, I promise to make pelts out of the lot of ya!”

A partially wrinkled hand rising would catch her attention followed by a frantic.” Whoa whoa! Not a coon, not a coon! I'd make for a awful pelt, I assure you!” and with the recognition, her concerned face relaxed. She pushed her way in; lit candle in her hand illuminating and revealing.” Heaven’s bells, hearing all that hollerin as I reached my shop!” Said with indignant annoyance.

Small metallic clangs as Kazu scrambled his way onto his feet; nearly tripping over a few trays while trying to make his way out of the minefield, ending up fumbling forward at the last hop over causing the blonde to stumble, nearly smacking into the table beside her.” Hah...ha ha…sorry about the shouting…and fright and..” Trailing off as some more clanging rang out from another stack of tins falling over.

The clanging sound like a harsh gong reminding him of the mess.” Uh-heh, sorry about all this ma’am…and…Yeeee…I’ll clean that up.” Kazu said, laughing nervously, genuinely feeling bad for causing trouble for Molly.

As he moved to do so, Molly took notice of the state of Kazu’s hand and let out a weary sigh before grabbing him by the shoulder to stop him.” Now enough of that ma’am nonsense and don’t fret about this. I’ll have my boys get this later, you sit.” She demanded forcing him to sit on the nearest stool.

-20 minutes later-

“ There, that should do it.” Smiled Molly proudly as she finished cleaning and bandaging up his hands.” Go on and give us a test, hon.”

Kazu gave her a nervous glance before tentatively flexing his fingers and while there was a slight stinging still, otherwise was fine.” Oh thank butters….they feel so much better!” He exclaimed with a big, relieved sigh.” You’re an angel Molly just like momma Naga and like momma Naga saids, always show yer thanks with expression matching how grateful one is.”

Confusion etched the woman’s pudgy face; when Kazu stood up and without warning hugged the woman.

“A-ah. Well you’re quite the affectionate one. Don’t get boys sweet like you around here much.” Molly said with a smile, the sadness in her eyes saying more.

After letting the hug continue a little longer with a pat to the back, Kazu pulled back with that big stupid grin of his.” A simple fix, I’ll just be sure to visit more and bring my sweetness with me..heck I got plenty to spare for them delicious snocones too.” Joked Kazu, doing the am I pretty face, his eyes fluttering in a silly obnoxious manner.

The woman almost let out a snort as she clapped the table, laughing.” Hah! Appreciate the offer, but I fear any sugar from you may give even the sturdiest customer a sugar overdose.” Giggled the older woman as she moved to sit down with Kazu offering an arm if she needed it.

“ You jest there, Molly, but if you’ve seen the amount of pudding and snacks I’ve eaten…” Pausing as he looked himself over then playfully poked his cheek.” It makes me sometimes wonder if my body isn’t just sugar at this point.” He scratched at his head; pondering whether to try licking his arm or not.

“ Pfft….what a strange fella you are, Kazu. Keep being that sweet boy you are.” Her right hand reaching up to give his cheeks a pinch.” Do try to ease up on that erraticness a tad and the screaming.” Advised Molly, though given with a comforting pat to her hand.” And if you need to rest here for a bit, seeing by the state of your hands you’ve had a long night.”

Her words meant to be comforting, but merely reminded him of the nightmarish sink hell.” Please..I don’t even want to think about soap or anything to do with sinks.” His body shuddered from the horror.

His reaction brought a mixed smile of amusement and pity.” Yes, no more talks of such, sorry dear. I did tell you not to worry about the cleaning.” She frowned, recalling coming across the tired blonde as she had been on her way home. He seemed to have spent some time already having to clean dishes and so didn’t want to make things worse for the lad.

A dismissive wave of a bandaged hand.” Bah! I was just holding up the promise I made. At least here I got to enjoy the shop’s fruity scents instead of having insults spat at me by a rat-faced piece of fuc- crapface.” Biting his tongue, not wanting to speak vulgar around Molly...well anymore than already had this morning.

" What do you intend to do when you leave?” She asked with a curious brow.

Kazu let his body slump against the table with a tired yawn.” Ugh…talk about a loaded question there, er… but none of it got’s nothing to do with ya or this shop so best I don’t talk about it."

Hearing this had Molly frown with worry.” Sounds like you have gotten yourself in some trouble. Are you sure you don’t want to talk about it, hun?”

Just seeing the woman concerned over him was enough as he shook his head.” Thanks, but it’s something we're gonna have to work out ourselves and don’t worry, Mol, I got friends to help me…though.” His grin lessened as he recalled Charlotte and Olivia (Percy) leaving him burying his face in his bandaged hands.” Whew…things are pretty rough though, I ain’t gonna lie. Got to thank good old count Calbert for most of it.”

The mention of the count’s name left Molly visibly stiffened and nervous only to realize shortly after tried to relax but found her hands fidgeting a bit.

Her reaction hardly went unnoticed and it was his turn to give her hand a comforting pat.” I won’t bring my problems onto you or this boardwalk.” Giving a reassuring squeeze to her hand as he said this.

His hand pulled away with an air blowing sputtering from his lips.” Guess I should try to find said friends to make sure they’re ok and to meet up later.” Pondering this aloud, when his stomach gave a long drawled out rumble.” Oh damn. Tummy is very not happy….better get food before it starts yodeling and you do not want tummy to yodel...trust me.” Shaking his head with a sharp, small chop motion to get across the seriousness of this.

His mind decided, Kazu spun on the stool and hopped onto his feet and started his way to the backdoor when Molly cleared her throat.” Oh! One moment before you go.”

He skidded to a stop by the door and spun around on his left heel; sweeping up the overcoat he left discarded and gave the coat two flicks then slipped it on after shaking off the wrinkles and undoing his sleeves still hiked up to avoid getting wet.

As he was finishing up, Molly approached offering a freshly made sno-cone.” Ooh! Brekky cone!” Exclaimed Kazu who happily took the offering.

“ This treat should hold you over for a bit. You be careful out there, alright? And if things look like they aren’t looking too good…” Holding off, unsure what to say before continuing.” Know that you and your friends will always be welcomed here.”

Kazu nodded appreciatively and gave her a small side hug.” Thanks Mol, I’ll keep that in mind.” He said while making a hop towards the door and yet again spun on his heels, preparing to add more when he felt something against his left breast side; a quick fumbling had him procure one of the pair of shades he got from the beach and slipped it on.” And no need to fret. The count’s never had to deal with a farmer like me.” Said while folding his arms in an attempt of a cool pose, the sno-cone held like a gun.

He held that pose aiming to pull off the cool departure only for the right lens of his shades to pop out.* Aw yeah, killing it Kazu.* Flashing her that dopey dazzling smile and a finger gun snap, the cowlicked blonde backed his way outside.

---

Turning suddenly on his heels to then let out an exaggerated sigh akin to a deflating balloon as most of the spunky energy he forced melted away much like the sno-cone dripping down his fingers. Using his free hand to rub at his forehead, thinking back to his friends and the trouble or stress they could be in.

At least he was freed of the strain of keeping face and the partially gloomy weather felt almost appropriately fitting with his current mood.

But he got a nice view of the beach and a sno-cone, plus the sight of seeing the few people enjoying themselves fishing, surfing and the like.

Allowing himself a moment to take in the scenery and inhale the salty air and with it came clarity.* No point fussing over things you can’t do anything about right now.* And with that thought in mind, Kazu felt his mood improving; for now finding Percy *grumble grumble* or something to fill his belly would do.

.* RUMBLE RUMBLE* Make that post-haste. The rumbling in his stomach would be made worse by a strong waft of delicious scents coming from somewhere not too far from the beach, a single whiff left Kazu drooling like a waterfall.” Settle down you gluttonous behemoth. Here, I got just what tummy needs.” Rubbing at his belly he slowly and delicately brushed his tongue along the icy treat wanting to savor the first lick.

As he began walking along the deck,A pop of syrupy fruity goodness struck him, spurring him to take another lick then another. Then as his foot stepped down, the world around him gradually turned into a sugary treat wonderland spreading from his foot.

A sugary rush flooded his body as he continued, his walking transitioned to light hops as he began humming, losing himself to the sugary magic taking hold.

Oh, that sweet-sweet taste, can't escape

Just lick and crunch
It's a sugar spin
A rainbow bite
That grin's a win
Flavor buzz
Every drip, every drop (yeah, yeah)
Got that pop, make it rock
Gimme swirls, gimme twirls
In this candy-coated world
[Hook]
We go lick, we go crunch
Every color, every punch
Sweeter than a hunch
This melody we munch
Melting beat, feel the rush
In this sugar we trust
Gimme sticks, gimme cones
Every burst, all the tones
Sugar high, not alone
This vibe's heavy, like stone
Flashes bright, neons gleam
Taste the rainbow, supreme
Every lick, a new scene
In this candy, we dream

Cr-

A furry image suddenly came into view causing Kazu to freeze mid hop, the candy world dissipated around him. Instead, he was looking at a wolf casually lounging outside some kind of cafe.

The Blossom Cafe, the source of the smell that the cowlicked farmer had unconsciously found himself led. The trip spent with him humming and dancing to his own tune and his tasty treat gone with only the blue and red stain around his mouth left.” Ooh-ooh! a wolf! Dont think this is one of those Alidasht pets…seeing as it’s not currently flirting with anything that walks or complaining.” He said snickering.

He wanted to pet the wolf, of course but refrained from doing so.” Only for the time being..just wait, I’ll bring somet-” Hands slipping into his pockets as he spoke, where he would find…nothing.” I...don’t know why I expected anything different.” There went any chance of dining in such a fancy establishment.

“ I don’t, however need money for a bathroom trip.” Kazu said, scheming with a rub of his chin.* Just pop in and state you’re using the loo, make distractions and once distracted I’ll grab a steak or whatever meat they got..* Pausing his thoughts as he looked back at the wolf during mid-think.* Make that three.* He needed a light snack after-all or the cafe could find themselves with two hungry beasts.

Before Kazu could make his way inside, had caught sight of his reflection.” Yeesh, I look a dirty bum.”

Stepping to the side of the building where Kazu spent the next couple minutes using the bits of sprinkling rain to wash off his face and hair.

Returning to outside the entrance, a satisfied sigh as he came to a stop besides the wolf yet again.” Ta-da! Now I'm a clean bum! Get that soft fur ready, my new soon-to-be canine pal, give me fifteen minutes.” Pausing to slip the one len shades back over his eyes.” when I step out, we be feastin." Nodding with a thumbs up to the wolf, doing all this whether the canine acknowledged him or not.

“ You’re probably wondering how some cowlicked scrub could pull it off. Simple… Confidence!” A rumble came from his stomach as if in agreement with this plan (any plan that got it food would work at this point). Kazu gave an excited snap of his fingers as he flicked the overcoat he removed to be draped over his left shoulder, the first step of his plans.

A whistling merry tune as he strolled his way in with a vibrant confidant stride, giving off the cocky importance with a bit of rich brat attitude mixed in.

Time: Morning
Location: Munir's Room
Attire: Munir's Shirt
Interaction: @Infinite Cosmos Hubby
Mentions:



Mina listened to Munir's heartfelt words, feeling a wave of relief wash over her as she heard the sincerity in his voice. His apology eased some of the tension that had been building within her, and she found herself slowly beginning to relax.

As he spoke of his privileged upbringing and his realization of the commitment required in a relationship, Mina couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for his honesty. She appreciated his willingness to acknowledge just how serious of a commitment he was asking for.

"Thank you, Munir," she said softly, her voice filled with genuine warmth. "I appreciate your honesty, and I understand that this is new territory for both of us."

She paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "But you need to know that I will challenge you, just as you will challenge me," she said firmly, meeting his gaze with unwavering determination and a small smirk. "I have a voice of my own, and I won't be swayed by coin or pretty gifts. Our relationship will be built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. I'm not always going to give you you're way."

Mina took a deep breath, steeling herself for what she was about to reveal. "With that all said, there's something else you need to know about me and my family, Munir," she began, her voice steady despite the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. "It's not an easy thing to talk about, but you deserve to know."

She hesitated for a moment, gathering her courage before continuing. "Because of what I deal with and what the women of my family before me dealt with, we don't often live long," she explained, her voice tinged with vulnerability. “The constant sight of the dead, the voices, the torture from some of the ghosts…well it eventually drives us mad…” She took a shakey breath, knowing the next bit was going to be hard to talk about. ”My great aunt was locked up by her husband who was frightened of her madness…and she ended up throwing herself out a window and off a cliff side…my mother was ostracized from society, partially from have a child out of wedlock, and she ended up hanging herself because everything became too much when I was a small child…I have no idea what my fate will be…”

Mina searched Munir's face, hoping to see understanding and acceptance in his eyes. She knew that revealing this part of herself was a risk, but she couldn't keep it hidden from him. She needed Munir to know the truth, no matter how difficult it may be. ”I've been researching more into the condition and how to prevent things, but it's dangerous research as it has to do a lot with magic. That, in itself, can lead me to my pyre if the wrong people find out about it. Especially since in my research I've also discovered I'm a natural born witch...” If she was damning herself, she may as well go all in.

Location: Where the magic happens
Interactions: @Taewifey

"I love being challenged. And as my lady, you would always have an audience with me and you can bet that I will always be your staunchest ally. Trust, respect and understanding is the basis of all good relationships, so that much is a given." Munir replied to Mina, his voice soft, but very certain.

As Mina began speaking on a much heavier topic, Munir subconsciously picked up her hands and started gently stroking the pad of her palms with his thumbs. In truth, he hadn't realized that his hands moved on their own and he was doing what he was doing. He listened to Mina's word's intently, fighting the urge to interrupt her. He can sense her unease, given the uncertain nature of the things in which she speaks.

When Mina finished speaking, Munir drew in a deep breath, his brain finally catching up with what his hands had been doing this whole time. With an exhale that was as deep as the breath he drew, he considered his next words carefully. "The only pyre that will be lit would be the one in celebration of our union. I know my protection is not what you seek. But I will commit myself wholly to that cause. I will let no harm come to you. I know we had previously spoken on the hardships that may come our way, but those trials and tribulations are not what I speak of now." Munir took a brief pause, reassuring Mina with his gaze. "The harm and trials I speak of now are from those that would rather see you be prosecuted than to take the time to understand and get to you know. Those people have no purpose in our lives. I am truly sorry to hear about the fate of the women in your family, especially your mother. That must have been so tough for you and your loved ones. However. I am determined to not let it come to that for you. The fate that I see for you, Mina Blackwood, is one shared with me. And our many children. Some growing up in the sunny sands of Alidasht. Others in the pine forests of Kolonivka. You will be there to teach our children right from wrong. And I will be there getting in to trouble along side them" Munir took another pause, this time with a sly smile because he knows what he said to be true.

Munir then scooted himself closer to Mina, hands still holding hers. "This research. You must show me. If there is anything I or House Kadir of Alidasht can help with, do not hesitate to let me know. I'm sure my myriad of sisters, brother and dear cousin Farim would love to have you on their side when the bullying starts..." Yes. The topic of conversation is serious and heavy. But Munir is who he is. He is not making light of the situation. This is just his personality and to have to force himself to behave differently would be akin to lying.

Leaning in, Munir used his body in such a way that Mina would have to lean herself back against the feather pillows and tufted headboard of his bed. "A nature born witch huh. That explains why I've fallen so deeply in love you with. You've cast a love spell on my, Mina Blackwood. One that I cannot break or shake. This is your doing. You've bound us, in perpetuity. And I'm going to seal that bond with a kiss now. Thats what happens in fairy tales, right? The prince finds his princess, and he seals their happily ever after with a kiss..." Munir leaned in, eyes closed and waited for Mina to join him in his fairy tale and their happily ever after.