[h1][center][color=lightpink]Olivia[/color] & [color=f26522]Roman[/color][/center][/h1]
[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/xV0wwZU.png[/img][/center][color=lightgray]
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Roman watched closely to her reactions, a cute stutter of his name, clenching fists around her menu, and occasionally glancing towards another table. His eyes did follow hers to a pair a few tables away, the duo looked familiar but he couldn't really quite tell from where. She did look lovely in her dress and accessories. 

Adjusting his arm in its sling for a moment he pondered her question, his eyes briefly roaming over her form to get a better judge of ability and physique even if it might feel like he was checking her out. [color=f26522]“You can just call me Roman, a friend of Charlotte's doesn't have to use my title.”[/color] he kept a slight smile. [color=f26522]“Hmm am I a blacksmith? Yes, I am also an able carpenter, a wood carver, stone mason, and glass blower on occasion. One must know many trades to be an artisan guild master."[/color] He wasn't telling her these things to gloat but more so as a slight tease.

Olivia noticed his sling, but waited to speak so she didn’t interrupt him. His gaze over her was not lost. It caused a blush to run across her cheeks faster than she could hide it. Olivia observed his physique in return. He was so [i]muscular[/i]. 

A mischievous grin formed on her face quickly. [color=lightpink]“Well, [i]Roman[/i],”[/color] Olivia quipped with mock sarcasm, [color=lightpink]“The body of yours speaks of itself. Usually, it’s best to be humble about your achievements. We wouldn’t want to boast now would we?”[/color]

His eyes did wander occasionally around the other faces; it was good to see so many others out and about. He wasn't quite sure about this courting thing either but outwardly he didn't show it. Besides the flicker of his eyes off onto the others occasionally, he held his attention on his date. [color=f26522]“I am surprised though, most high class ladies prefer to ask me about my finances or my family to try and gauge what kind of standing they might find with me.”[/color] a test yes but not a dangerous one. He is familiar with Charlotte so he wasn't too worried about this one but he still didn't know her or well anything about her.

Olivia smirked at him and bounced her leg under the table. His comment caught her off guard. Annoyance toward the higher class she now found herself portraying filled her mind, and she began to wonder if she had misjudged some of these nobles…

[color=lightpink]“My dear Roman, there’s more to a person than their standings and finances. You could live in solitude or marry someone you hate for the rest of your life and be miserable. You tell me which one sounds worse to you.”[/color] She leaned forward and lowered her voice. [color=lightpink]”And I’m sure the answer isn’t the second one, yeah?”[/color] 

Her mention of his physique in response to his words about his job made him give a quiet laugh. Yet it did make him pause for a moment. Setting his left hand down across the table almost like he was offering it to hold, his palm facing up revealing the calluses of hard labor. [color=f26522]“It is easy to see that I would subject myself to some sort of heavy labor given my frame and rough skin… but some of those professions require a great deal of precision and patience to deal with the finer details.”[/color] he looked up from his hand and back to her, [color=f26522]“So yes I do enjoy boasting in good taste to gauge the reactions of those that otherwise would want nothing to do with it aside from the finished product.”[/color]

Olivia watched Roman move his hands onto the table faceup. Panic coursed through her and her cheeks flushed. Did he want her to hold his hand? Relief flooded through her when he showed her the callouses. She met his gaze and her breach hitched. A side-glance at Delilah caused the woman to mouth at her [i]breathe[/i]. Olivia let out a slow breath. When she finally felt safe to respond, she smiled once more. [color=lightpink]”We’ll drink to that boast. Your trade is one of harsh labor and sounds demanding, yet enjoyable. It must take a special person for it,”[/color]

[color=f26522]“A curse of nobility as I'm sure you're well aware, sometimes we don't get to choose, sometimes it's about what the two can bring to the table. Luckily I am not such a noble.'[/color]' He paused for a moment to take a sip from a glass of water left on the table. Drinking more alcohol right now was not a good idea. [color=f26522]“Although I am a noble, my family is rather low on the list but still respected.”[/color] Again another test to judge her reaction, common things for nobles to know as just another part of life. This one seemed to be missing some nuances of the upper class.

Olivia’s heart caught in her throat. What did she say now? Olivia fidgeted uncomfortably, and a glance from Delilah caused her to stop. [color=lightpink]”You’re also a human being, and that in of itself is enough to give you value.”[/color] Olivia responded. Her shoulders and body language began to relax. He wasn’t haughty, nor was he condescending like most of the nobles she had met. A genuine smile began to tug at her lips.

[color=f26522]“Still… you are correct, I would go with option one.”[/color] Relaxing into his seat, he continued, [color=f26522]“Solitude may be preferred but no one can withstand solitude forever.”[/color] Again he paused trying to find his next words, [color=f26522]“So tell me then, why does a noble lady ask me about being a blacksmith? Would you like some jewelry… Perhaps a ring?”[/color] the moment he said the last part he found his own face heating up slightly even at the slightest mention of marriage. Why must it always be after the words leave his mouth that he realizes the meanings one could take.

Olivia listened quietly to him speak. She blushed when he mentioned a ring. Her cheeks now rivaled her hair. She stared with shock at him and then giggled once she saw his reaction. [color=lightpink]”Oh of course that’s why I asked, Roman.”[/color] She replied sarcastically and let out a mischievous laugh. 

[color=f26522]“I mean you’re uh, you're not wearing one that suits you…”[/color] He frowns for a moment breaking his stoicism. He was really trying to take this seriously but still found it difficult to find the right words.[color=f26522] “Well, one that was made for you.''[/color] He was still flustered; the giant didn't want to insult her, somehow he still felt like he was.

The comments continued, as did both of their embarrassment. Despite it, a torrent of giggles escaped her. She glanced at the waitress and signaled for her with a hand wave which caught the attention of some of the others. Then, Olivia turned back to Roman and addressed him. [color=lightpink]”I think it would be fun to learn how to make things, really,”[/color] Olivia decided to poke the bear. [color=lightpink]”Wouldn’t it be fun to see if we can make something that fits us both?”[/color] 

She changed the subject for his sake. [color=lightpink]”Besides blacksmithing, what else do you like to do?”[/color]

The growing amount of nervous giggles he was receiving from her made him breathe a little easier. At best it meant she wasn't taking it as an insult and was just as nervous about this as he was. It was a breath of fresh air really to find someone just as aloof in these situations as he was. Still he didn't want her to be asking all the questions for this. [color=f26522]“Thank you for changing the subject, I don't particularly enjoy talking about politics, especially on a first date.”[/color] This time he was deliberate in trying to see if he could get her to smile or turn red again.

Olivia ceased her giggles and paid attention to Roman. [color=lightpink]”Me either, politics are a waste of time and energy. Kinda bullshit if you ask me,”[/color] Olivia couldn’t hide the blush rising up her cheeks and glanced down at the menu once more to avert her gaze.

Glancing as she motioned for the server then back to her and her question. What could they make that would fit the both of them? His eyes once again looked over her frame this time with more purpose than just looking at curves, this time he was paying attention to her musculature. [color=f26522]“Hmm…”[/color] he was studying her, not like one would study a problem, but like one that was taking in a piece of art. [color=f26522]“If I were to assume, I’d say you fancy a bow? perhaps a one handed blade but not a shield? The muscles in your shoulders give you away.”[/color] Roman knew from experience that using a bow over the years was a good way to make your muscles grow differently from one another. 

As Olivia studied the menu, she looked up once more. Their gazes locked, and she grinned sheepishly. [color=lightpink]”Nothing gets past you, does it, detective?”[/color] Liv teased and set the menu down to study him in return. [color=lightpink]”A new bow or sword, huh? Fancy.”[/color] She considered it for a moment, then continued. [color=lightpink]”We should go hunting one day, I’d love to see what kinda weapons you create and how good they are.”[/color]

Taking a moment to glance around with a serious face, [color=f26522]“You're not like the nobles here… I believe you're a bit more like myself. You didn't have anything given to you and had to work to get to where you are.”[/color] he smiled again, [color=f26522]“I think that's why i'm starting to like you.”[/color]

Olivia’s body language relaxed more and she slouched in her chair.  [color=lightpink]”Sure as shit didn’t get nothing handed to me. I had to work my ass off to get myself here.”[/color] Olivia noticed Delilah glaring her way and averted her gaze. [color=lightpink][i]Goddamnit. This is so fucking hard. Are nobles supposed to act like robots?[/i][/color] 

Olivia sat back up and mistakenly set her elbows on the table. Another look from Delilah came her way, but she missed it this time. [color=lightpink]”Thanks Roman, it’s a mutual feeling then isn’t it?”[/color] Olivia inquired sweetly, and struggled not to blush again.

He paused for a moment as the waitress approached, [color=f26522]“Does the romance breakfast platter work for you? and just water for me.” [/color] 

Her attention turned back to the menu. Olivia’s eyes widened as she took in the information. Everything looked so [i]good[/i]. A rumble in her stomach filled the air and she glanced around nervously to make sure nobody looked over at her, then her attention returned to the menu. 

[color=lightpink]”What the hell is hollendaisy sauce?”[/color] She arched an eyebrow as she struggled to understand the menu. [color=lightpink]”The Romance Platter would be great. As for me, I’ll have the Chocolate - what is that word- French Toast, and the Classic Chicken and Waffles. I think the fruit juice will be fine. Thanks.”[/color] She closed the menu and turned back to Roman, and missed the exasperated glances from Delilah.

Sitting up in his chair and looking out the window for a moment at the rain outside, then back to her, Roman spoke again once the waitress left, [color=f26522]“So things I like? Mountain climbing, cave delving, hunting, my passion is the forge.”[/color] pausing again for a moment trying to think of something witty or flirtatious to say next, [color=f26522]“What do you enjoy doing? Other than looking beautiful at events like these?”[/color] Alright so not the most subtle but then again what about him was.

Olivia folded her hands together with her elbows on the table and then rested her chin on top of them. If looks could kill, she’d be dead from the pointed glare Delilah sent her. [color=lightpink]”Mountain climbing huh? Do you ever go cliff diving? Super fun at Lover’s Lake.”[/color] Gratitude filled her with his compliment; however she had to poke the bear more. [color=lightpink]”Being beautiful at only noble events? You wound me. I’m beautiful every day, Roman.”[/color] 

Olivia smirked and reached across the table, and gently took his hand to measure it against her’s. [color=lightpink]”Your hand is so much bigger than mine but we fit well don’t we?”[/color] She grinned up at him with amusement and removed her hand. [color=lightpink]”But I do thank you, and you look handsome as well. We’re a damn good looking date aren’t we?”[/color] 

With a grin, she leaned back and answered his question. [color=lightpink]”What do I like doing? I enjoy adventuring, shooting, horseback-riding, cooking and baking, and I’ve picked up the talent of sewing and knitting. Kinda hard though when your hands are swollen from yard work.”[/color] 

This one was definitely likable but something was still off, felt off. Even for him something just didn't quite feel right. From her posture to her mannerisms it felt rough, unrefined. Even the lesser ladies of court had a brisk idea of what to say and how to say it. Roman glanced over his shoulder for a moment back at the door, his eyes slowly scanning through the other faces both foreign and recognized. He did this so she wouldn't see his face as he made a split second decision, to leave, to stay and call her out, to make a scene. No. Her mask wasn't very well put together but it was there for a reason, just like his. 

His gaze returned to hers with his smile only slipping for a moment, [color=f26522]“No my lady, you look stunning all the time. But when I see you sitting here, with the rain on the window, the light hits you just right to truly show how beautiful you are.”[/color] he pondered what to say next, more flattery to see just how red her face can get. [color=f26522]“Just like the view from the top of a mountain, the rough waves around a ship in a storm, the delicate lines on a work of art. Your beauty is vast with a hint of danger and places in your heart that are yet to be explored.”[/color]

Olivia noticed him glance over his shoulder. Her heart sank, as did her expression. She glanced at Delilah and the pout remained there long enough for her to see it. Once Roman turned back, she smiled pleasantly. [color=lightpink]”Why thank you kind sir.”[/color] Olivia replied sweetly.  She sipped her water and grinned at his words despite the hole forming in her chest.

He didn't think that he could really insult her but by the way she reacted and poked at him in return made him think that like him, compliments were hard to really accept sometimes. He felt his fingers reflexively try to hold onto her hand as she let it slip from his. Even through his blushes and smiles, behind his eyes his mind still circled back around to Violet. Forcefully pushing the thought from his mind he would enjoy the moment for what it was, making a new friend.

[color=f26522]“Cliff diving can be fun, easy to lose your clothes, hard to find places to do that in the far north. Still, I think planning another date in the future would be fun. Perhaps a walk in the forest like you said, how about when you test out your new bow?”[/color] Of course he would need more details about what she preferred but it gave him something to work on in his off time.

[color=lightpink]”Sounds as though it’s a good time to get loosey goosey.”[/color] Olivia giggled. Her mind envisioned the moment the adventure made the headlines. What a cruel story that would be made into. She nodded eagerly at the idea of testing a new boy he’d forge out in the woods. [color=lightpink]”That would be great!”[/color]

[color=f26522]“So given the nature of this event, what do you desire?... What qualities are you looking for in a partner?”[/color] The large man hoped she would give an honest answer to his question and he would give one in return.

Her mind raced to the free life Kazu and her had lived previously, yet her heart ached tremendously. She wouldn’t be able to live that anymore. So what would be the next best thing? 

[color=lightpink]”Well… Someone who's honest, funny, enjoys being daring yet still a gentleman….”[/color] She paused as she stared off into the distance, and a glassy look overcame her eyes. [color=lightpink]”I love the rolling hills, the acres of land to be free, being around animals; having someone be at your side and knowing they’re your best friend and partner sounds like a nice life. Someone who likes to tend to some work, not too political, or climbing over and kicking the poor people down.”[/color]

Before he could reply, the food arrived. Olivia couldn’t help but squeal in excitement and wonder. Everything looked [i]so delicious[/i]. Her mouth watered and her eyes nearly popped out of her head. She dug into her food quickly and nearly radiated from joy.

Her reply to his question was wholesome, somehow he was not too surprised by the answer. It made him pause to consider his own reply. Popping a bacon wrapped date into his mouth, unexpectedly it had a flavor that complimented the differences in both rather well. He returned his attention back to her to see that she was nearly lost in her food. It was adorable it gave him a memory of his youngest siblings digging into the food at their feasts.

Roman pushed his foot forward to gently nudge hers, [color=f26522]“there is no need to rush.”[/color] speaking with a hushed but friendly tone, [color=f26522]“savor the flavor slowly.”[/color] aware that such a comment might tip her off that he knew or assumed something about her, he decided to fake ignorance of her lack of manners. [color=f26522]“Dishes like these are hard to come by even among the highest of nobility. so no need to rush.”[/color]

Olivia jumped when he nudged his foot into her’s, and looked up. The scenery around her dissolved back into the Blossom Cafe. She blinked and glanced down at her plate. Half the food was nearly gone. She turned her head and noticed some others had been watching her too, including Delilah and Gilbert. Her cheeks flushed and she sheepishly looked down at her plate. [color=lightpink]”...Sorry,”[/color] she muttered, unable to meet his gaze. [color=lightpink]”...Shit…”[/color] 

Again his mind went back to his answer to the question while eating another bacon wrapped date. Honesty was what he decided to go with. [color=f26522]“That description is noble and peaceful. You might find something like that among the young men that adorn this city.[/color]” his smile fading for a moment before he spoke again, [color=f26522]“I myself am looking for a friend, someone I can trust, someone that can hold their own in both solitude and stressful situations, someone i can happily or at the very least be content with for the rest of my life…” [/color]

Olivia focused on slowing down reluctantly. She forced herself to meet his gaze. His answer was fair. [color=lightpink][i]How many nobles are lonely and unhappy even when they’re… on top of the world?[/i][/color]

He found himself looking out the window, just staring out into the wet weather, [color=f26522]“in truth i have plenty of things that are worth dying for… I'm looking for someone worth living for.”[/color] His voice carried something with it, something akin to a sorrowful acceptance of some far off event to come, as if he knew that death was waiting for him somewhere nearby but just far enough out of reach.

The rain seemed to mimic the sorrowful tone he soon carried. Olivia frowned and wondered what the hell happened in his life. [color=lightpink] “Oh damn, Roman. That’s… That’s quite a bit.”[/color] She paused and contemplated what else to say. [color=lightpink]”You seem like a great guy; I’m sure you’ll find it! Even if you find something that makes you happy,that keeps you going, you’ll find it and you’re deserving of it too.”[/color]

He didn't let the feeling linger between them for long as he changed the subject again. [color=f26522]“So why don't you tell me about your home and your family? They must be proud that you were able to make it to this courting event.”[/color] his smile returned in full force between bites of food.

Roman quickly changed the subject. Olivia blanched, as she figured this answer might come up at some point. She delayed answering by stuffing her mouth full of food. She glanced at her reflection and realized she looked like a squirrel. Olivia quickly drank water and chewed her food while her mind raced for answers. As if on cue, like magic almost, the answer came to her. Olivia could feel Delilah watching her closely. She had rehearsed this with both Delilah and Charlotte over and over.

[color=lightpink]”Well, my family is from Viermont.”[/color] Olivia explained smoothly and moved her hands to sit in her lap so she could fidget inconspicuously. [color=lightpink]“My parents are Lady Rose and Lord William Hawthorne. I’m an only child so they are very proud, yes indeed.”[/color] She picked up more food to excuse her from speaking anymore. Liv glanced at Delilah briefly for guidance, and the woman nodded kindly to her. 

She glanced back at Roman and switched the subject onto him. [color=lightpink]“What about you?”[/color] She inquired and ignored her racing heart.

He continued to eat a few things off the plate he was given, it was very tasty, the deviled eggs being his favorite of the dish so far. Her words sounded well rehearsed when speaking of her family, something he remembered himself doing when first meeting new people and going to new places.

The memory made him smirk, has he really changed all that much.  [color=f26522]“That is very well rehearsed but there is no need to be nervous, I'm no prince.”[/color] a slight compliment,  [color=f26522]“My family hails from the far northern reaches of Varian in Emberstone, a city cut partially into a mountain cavern.” [/color] pausing for a moment to adjust himself in his seat,  [color=f26522]“My father Erick Ravenwood and mother Brynhilde Ravenwood live there for most of the year. I am the eldest of seventeen brothers and sisters, four of whom have unfortunately passed away.”[/color] again he paused but there wasn't the same somber in his voice like there was earlier. 

At first, the smirk alarmed her - had she done or said something wrong? Quickly she was proven otherwise and thus, she relaxed. Olivia ate her food at a steadier pace, despite wanting to devour it again. She smiled kindly at him, then nearly choked on her water once he mentioned his siblings. [i]Seventeen brothers and sisters?[/i] Her eyes widened a bit, but she steadily relaxed so it wasn’t visible.  [color=lightpink]”Wow - that’s quite a family. I bet it was a busy household. Seems nice to have others to rely on.”[/color] She commented with surprise and admiration. 

 [color=f26522]“I think you would like Emberstone and the northern territories, it's a harsh and unforgiving place yet its beauty, like yours, is something you have to see to believe.”[/color]  adding just a little bit of a compliment to see if she would pick up on it. His smile only grew and admittedly a little red did flash over his face.  

As he mentioned her likely enjoying the place, she smiled genuinely. It sounded lovely - unlike this shithole kingdom they lived in. It seemed the people from Varian’s Kingdom were softer and kinder folks than what Sorian offered. She blushed at his words and drank water to quickly hide it. Once she regained her confidence, Olivia straightened up and leaned forward.  [color=lightpink]”I guess we’d have to put it to the test one day then wouldn’t we?”[/color] Olivia purred and leaned back in her seat with a mischievous giggle

He found his food quickly finished through their conversation, a good lunch spent with good company. Given Olivia’s reaction to his brief description of his home he decided to give her a little more. [color=f26522]“Our home is beautiful, families will always have more children as long as we have the food. Thanks to the crown we will always have food. The reason why we have larger families is because it's much easier to die.'[/color]' He knew it was a darker subject but just by the way she looked at him he could tell there was strength behind her eyes. This one wasn't some dotted upon noble that was naïve to the realities of this world.

Olivia listened intently to Roman while she finished her food. Her eyes remained attentive, and she couldn’t help but begin to fidget. It wasn’t that she was bored, but the conversation took a dark turn and she wasn’t sure what to say. More ways to die? Olivia wondered what the hell happened in Varian’s Kingdom.

[color=f26522]“Though there is still strife anywhere you go at least here the weather is unlikely to kill you or a wandering animal.”[/color] pausing to take another drink of his water, [color=f26522]“we have to rely on one another, especially when the long nights set in, when we lose the warmth of the sun for months. Everyone works, and after you reach adulthood it is rare to have anything given freely, other than stories and laughs.”[/color] 

Her attention was captured now and she didn’t take her eyes off Roman. Harsh weather and wandering animals? Was the Varian Kingdom a hostile country? It seemed so unfamiliar to her. She was astounded by his words, and it was quite a surprise. 

Roman readjusted himself and he continued. [color=f26522]“For us everything is earned regardless of your birth. Being able to build your reputation like that brings us closer together in shared suffering, we shoulder the burden together. No one gets left behind."[/color]

Olivia watched him speak and was silent for a few minutes. This was a heartfelt statement. Nobody gets left behind. Her heart ached with those words. She had been left behind; and fortunately, she’d found refuge with the Vikena’s and Kazumin. She glanced down at her hands and was quiet. When she finally spoke, her voice was smooth. [color=lightpink]”Well, Roman, that sounds like quite the lifestyle. Thanks for sharing it with me and I am glad you have your  family to comfort you and stick together. It sounds lovely that you all have each other,”[/color] Olivia replied and smiled genuinely. 

He knew it didn't always make sense, how they lived their lives but it made them strong and united almost to the point of being zealots. Some would even whisper that they brainwashed their citizens to achieve this semblance of peace and community, fewer still would spread rumors that something darker was at play for the northern Varian people to be how they are. It always seemed a little off or too good to be true.

[color=lightpink]”It sounds quite different from Caesonia’s lifestyle, but more of a community than this kingdom. It’s been great getting to know you and I am happy to hang with you in the future too.”[/color]

Her words made him smile. He wouldn't mind this conversation lasting longer but time did seem to be running out. Before they began to part ways he supposed he could clear something up for her, [color=f26522]“oh I don't mean to miss lead you but there are still several places in Varian that are like this city. What I have been talking about is just my home in the northern territories.”[/color] Roman found himself fidgeting for a moment, rubbing his thumb against his index and middle fingers.

[color=f26522]“Thank you for chatting with me today. It's always nice to slow down and just enjoy the moment from time to time.”[/color] he paused for a moment to glance around at the others in the restaurant. There were a few empty tables where others had been earlier, he did miss opportunities like these to just talk and let time pass. [color=f26522]“I suppose it is getting to the end of our little lunch date, I did enjoy talking to you Olivia and I do hope we are able to do it again soon.”[/color] he spoke with his same smile and stood up from the table taking a moment to readjust his sling.[/color]