[IC] 🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

[ReusableSword]

Roman Ravenwood

---

---

With the end of the ball and the dispersing of the others back to their homes, estates, and guest houses came a feeling of relief for the man. Roman never really liked these social gatherings but it would seem that this one had been rather interesting compared to the last. Hopefully he would be able to find violet again tomorrow. Maybe a walk around the area would be nice if he didn’t get too smashed at the party coming up. Hopefully it would be a good one.

Roman only stayed in his room for a moment to leave his coat and get ambushed by Princess Ana with a hug that he gladly reciprocated before skipping off to inform the others of the ‘secret’ party. He did like her she was always bubbly and absolutely adorable. He was glad she hadn’t changed much since the last time he saw her. She never seemed to judge anyone poorly or have a negative outlook towards others or most others. Ana and Callum were his favorites of the Danrose children.

He made his way quietly to the others at the stable and waited in the back of the crowd as the others whispered or talked among themselves. Once the carriage pulled around he found a nice spot on the floor in the carriage and mostly kept quiet but his smile didn’t fade. They stopped for a moment to pick someone named kazoo up and continued to what looked to be an old dilapidated warehouse. Letting everyone else out first Roman found himself at the back of the group scanning the environment outside of the warehouse finding only the feeling of being watched from an unknown place but shrugged it off.

A masked man was guiding the group further down into a secret passage down under the building, a rhythmic sound slowly became auditable as they walked. At first it almost sounded like a hammer or two swinging away at something with how it thumped in your chest but that idea was soon forgotten as the strange sounds began to accompany it. At the bottom of the stairs Roman almost missed the man offering masks as he stared at the lights and sounds around them, “by the gods” he whispered turning to the man with the masks.

“Ha, I don’t know about you but I don’t think that mask will do much to hide this frame.” Motioning with his hands to his physical build. “Thank you though.” The Tall man made his way to the bar and eyed the bartender for a moment, “quite the establishment, tell me what will it cost for a pint of your darkest beer, a pint of water, and…” trailing off for a moment as he looked at the menu. “Conquer the Mountain that one sounds good. And tell me miss” eyeing the woman once again, “how does one get into that ring over there?” motioning to the fighting ring nearby with people cheering and shouting.

He seemed to be a little easily distracted at the moment and was definitely a lot louder than he had been at the dance, almost like he waited all night just to be this way. He looked among the patrons at the bar until he thought he recognized the clothes Callum was wearing earlier but was hard to tell with this lighting. “CALLUM!” he raised his voice for a moment to get the attention of likely everyone at the bar, “Come drink with your old friend, it’s been too long.” The smile on the large man seemed like it would last forever.

@Helo

[princess]

?????

TRIGGER WARNING: VIOLENCE

Location: Near the Sorian Library, in the alleyway between buildings
Music:Click here for spooky music

---

A young woman had left the Sorian Library and made her way into the alleyway between buildings. Her body was relaxed, letting her pursuer know that she had no idea she was being followed. The crickets chirped as the woman paused in the dark alleyway to rummage through her bag.

Somewhere hidden in the alleyways: “Greetings, what brings you here on this lovely night…”

The woman emitted an almost inaudible gasp. She looked around frantically as she tried to find the source of the voice she had suddenly heard. Stiff as a board, she called out into the air, “Hello? …Who’s there!”

The voice continued to echo around her in the alleyway, almost as if there were multiple people present, but all belonging to the same voice of hatred and demise. “... Status. Secrets. Success. The Damien family seems to have it all… all because of that wretched man that you call a father….Lady Violet Damien.”

Violet shuddered and hastily moved forward, lowering her head. She was not that far from home. Her heart was beginning to race; it was now or never. Gathering her skirt, her speed-walking grew into a full-out run.

The voice became louder, seemingly haunting her as she started to run, and ringing inside her head. “Running and hiding as always. Even if there is someone who you may want to save, you’ll choose to run away…”

Her lip quivered as she slowed her movements. She had been almost out of the alleyway and close to the Damien estate. She turned around with a paler face than usual, panic filling her voice as she cried, “What do you mean?!” Considering they knew her name and her family, it was possible. And that possibility was what kept her from escaping.

“Perhaps a tall, adventurous fellow. Someone you grew to care about tonight…” The voice is now in a centralized area. Behind Violet stood a dark silhouette, but one that was unidentifiable. To Violet, it could have been anyone. “Now, wouldn’t it be considered a tragedy if this little tale ended a bit early?”

Violet positioned her body to face the figure. She stared down the alleyway as tears brimmed in her eyes, her fists clenched. “Please don’t hurt him.” She pleaded and then boggled her mind for answers, “What is this about? Money?”

“Not money. No…”

From down the alley, a vial rolled down, stopping just a few feet away from her. “I will tell you exactly what I wish, but to hear my demands, you must drink the same potion as your beloved had. Upon doing so, you will be reunited once you wake up. But if you refuse, he will be no more…”

The dark-haired girl folded her arms. “You have no proof he’s even within your possession. I will not fall for some trick. ” She retorted.

“If that is the risk you wish to take, then so may God bless his soul. But take the potion with you, and consider my words. You have an hour to decide and return to this area. Otherwise, it will only be regret…” The presence steps back into the shadows, but before doing so, a single piece of jasmine flew into the air, just barely being present in the moonlight shadow.

Violet froze at the sight of the jasmine in the air. No… Could it be that this man has already hurt Roman? Her face contorted as she thought harder, “There’s no proof of anything. This is a ridiculous game. “

Of course the one night I sneak out to find a new book to read, this happens.

With a hard swallow and rush of mixed emotions, she moved forward, calling out, “ This is absurd! Just who are you! I know you’re still there!” With rising irritation, she scooped up the vial in hand to examine it, planning to find this person and throw it in their face. “I was not born yesterday! I know it’s poison!”

Despite the display of disbelief, she failed to realize the string attached to the vial, pulling up from the ground. She heard a swinging noise in the area from behind her. As she turned around, an ax swung toward her, hitting her in-between her eyes and digging deep in her skull, killing her instantly. The girl did not even have time to scream. Her body fell straight to the floor, limp on her back. Blood began to drip down her head and pool beneath it, her dark hair becoming sticky in the red puddle that formed. Her eyes were lifeless as they were fixed staring into the sky. “Sometimes the most effective trap is the most simple, my dear Lady.”. The mysterious figure stared at the now motionless corpse sitting in the middle of the alleyway. “I am terribly sorry things had to end this way, but your father needed to learn some lessons”. The figure cut the string off the ax, and quickly removed the mechanisms attached, carefully of course. It was not originally complicated at all. The ax itself was carefully not touched. All that was left was the body and the vial.

It was only wine inside, after all.

[princess]

Location: In the alleyway by the Damien Estate

---

Calbert stood over his daughter's dead body, now covered with a sheet and the ax removed from her head. Violet's body had been there for ten minutes before being found. The guard had come to his estate to fetch him. His usually cold blue eyes swam with heavy emotion. The sight he had beheld had broken his heart. It felt as if he had died then and there.

Yet he made no sound.

There were guards on each side of the alleyway, doing their best to keep others from entering. Some were nearby, murmuring and discussing the situation. He knelt down and put his hand down on Violet's arm through the sheet. She was so cold that it sent shivers up his spine.

Her life flashed before his eyes. First, a little girl with black hair ran through a meadow toward him as she giggled. Calbert had taken her up in his arms and swung her around. Then, he saw a teenage Violet as she peacefully read a book by her bedroom window. Flashes of her at all different ages continued to haunt his mind.

After everything... My nightmare has come true.

Every precaution, every idiot he manipulated to get where he was, had it all been for nothing?

Others, who had known him well enough, had told him time and time again that he had everything he could ever want. Even Queen Alibeth herself had asked him why he kept pressing on the way he did.

Why fight for more?

Why seek more?

His lip quivered as he stared. He pulled her body into his arms, mildly aware of the kingdom guard standing by him."This is why, Violet."He whispered to her as he clutched her, "You were why I did it. All of it..."His voice broke, and a sob escaped him, " I just wanted you to be safe. To have everything... "

I would have slaughtered the damn lot of them if it meant I could keep you.

I would have shoved both Lorenzo and his Lottie right off a cliff.

Poisoned King Edin and every one of his moronic children.

Murdered that Roman fool who thought he had a chance with you.

Strangled that Kazumin right where he stood.

His eyes flashed as a thought crossed his mind.

Who did this? They... They will suffer more than anyone has ever suffered before. I will-...

His face contorted with pain, misery, and fury all at once as he shut his eyes and hung his head.

"I have to tell King Edin of this, sir."

Calbert waved his hand, his voice hoarse as he answered," I understand... However."

Crystal's adorable smiling face took over his vision.

No. Not her too.

He could just imagine the way she'd shut herself away. For weeks. Maybe months.

There was no way he would let this sabotage her happiness and chance at a husband.

Their chance for her to marry a prince and secure safety was so close.

He had to keep trying for Liliane and Crystal's sake.

He kissed Violet's head and looked up at the guard, "I want this covered up."

The man in armor stared, perplexed.

"We will tell all Violet was sent away after tonight's behavior at the ball. My other daughter... She cannot handle this in her state of health. She just finally was able to leave the house and-." He clutched his fists and then got to his feet. "I will tell her eventually as well as everyone else, so I can give my Violet the funeral she deserves."

"But I need a little longer. I'll tell King Edin myself. ... Please."

Calbert met his eyes, his tone firm as he got to his feet and met him eye to eye. "Continue whatever investigation you have to. Inform who must be informed. This must not be public knowledge. "

His advisor Henry slowly emerged from the background, the guards moving to the side to let him pass as Calbert nodded his approval of him. Henry immediately asked if there was anything he needed.

Calbert was silent, then he said quietly to him, "Lady Charlotte and her friend have just gone into the tavern here. Find a way to keep them in there for the night so they halt their game. There is a killer in Sorian. More importantly on that note, I will need Crystal located and brought home immediately."

[JJ Doe]

Charlotte Vikena
&
Fritz "Ryn" Hendrix

---

A strange chittering sound filled the room in the silence that had followed.

Charlotte and Fritz turned to the source as a black ferret wormed his way out from under the bed. She knelt down to collect the furry being as he launched himself into her arms and swirled around chaotically in them, nibbling at her hand. "Oh, my little baby." She cooed softly and tickled Kier's chest, oblivious to Fritz's intense gaze and raised hand that yearned to touch the tiny creature. Charlotte was sure that if Lorenzo had been home, he would have been here with Kier. She stood up, ferret in hand, and walked over to the bed. Obviously, no one had sat or laid on it, but she patted around the surface, searching for any sign of warmth.

Ryn let his hand down as Lady Vikena picked up the creature and began her investigation of the bed. He continued to appreciate the adorable ferret from where he stood a while longer before finally joining Lady Vikena in her search. Though he thought it might be rude of him to enter a duke's personal quarters, it was not the first time he had entered someone's room without its owner's permission. He scanned the room for any recent traces of Duke Vikena.

She straightened back up with the sudden feeling to just curl up on the floor and sleep right then and there. "If only things could be easy…" Charlotte sighed as she scoped the room, hands on her hips. Delilah had cleaned in here after Lorenzo had left, and indeed he'd have messed at least one thing up by now. But, on the other hand, there was not a thing out of place.

Charlotte moved into the hall and called through it, "Lorenzo!" She glanced around, listening carefully for a moment. Her tired blue eyes found Fritz's gaze. Kier halted his chaotic tumbling as if he had suddenly died, his gaze now locked on Fritz, sniffing. “Well. It seems the night has only begun for me."

"It certainly seems that way… I can't say for certain, but it didn't look like your father returned to his room." Ryn could not refrain from smiling at the ferret who showed interest in him. He walked closer to it and extended his hand for it to sniff. When the ferret decided that the stranger was not a threat, Ryn sneaked in a few head scratches. “Which is odd… Didn't Nathaniel mention that Benjamin told him that Duke Vikena went straight to his room after arriving home?" Could it mean that one, or both, lied to them? That or Duke Vikena managed to run off without any of his servants noticing him.
Kier took Ryn' 's fingers in his little paws and began to happily hug them to his body. Charlotte was silent as she studied the bedroom once more then the hallway. "Lorenzo would have left that bedroom in a frenzy as he ran late…. His room is now clean, meaning the door was open, and Delilah was able to go in and tidy up." Charlotte informed him, then pointed at the carpet in the hallway. It was off-center as if it had been pushed. “Someone left in a hurry. They locked the door and hurried off in that direction, I think.." She pointed forward, using the carpet to decide the direction the person had gone.

"Someone who knew exactly where the key was hidden or potentially has access to another key to the room." Which narrowed down their pool of "suspects" considerably. "This someone, if it's not the Duke himself, went through quite the effort to make it look like no one went in the room since Delilah cleaned up…" Ryn gave the ferret one last scratch before he walked towards the carpet to get a better look at it. There was a skid mark from a shoe, solidifying the direction someone had run in. It was toward the stairs to go descend to the first floor. "Do you think they were looking for something?"

Charlotte moved around the room to get a closer look, "I don't know. I don't come in here often…But I don't think anything seems moved enough. It doesn't seem like anyone came in even after it was cleaned." She examined the room for a little longer before joining him in the hallway and closing the door.

"So you think the Duke came upstairs but didn't enter his room for one reason or another, and then he bolted back downstairs?" Like he forgot something? Another possibility popped up into his head, causing him to rub his temples. Or someone? Ryn sighed. Charlotte had nodded.

"Let's make sure he isn't in the house and then find Benjamin to-." She broke off, pausing before telling him with hands waving defensively, "Oh, I'm sorry! I'm not trying to force you into this, by the way… I am kinda thinking out loud here. Let me know please if you'd like to go home at any time."

Ryn placed his fingers lightly over his heart and, in mock shock, exclaimed, "Detective! You cannot possibly think I can leave now? I'll be tossing and turning in my bed for the rest of the night, wondering what happened." The count smiled to reassure her that she was not forcing him into anything, "Let us proceed with our investigation." The count glanced down at his new furry friend, "Will you help us find your master, little one?"

Charlotte smiled at him while Kier hopped onto Ryn's shoulder upon being addressed and climbed upon his head to sit in his hair. Despite the situation, she couldn't help but giggle. She proceeded down the stairs and looked around thoughtfully.

”Lorenzo!” She suddenly called through the house. Delilah moved into the room with genuine concern written on her face. Charlotte immediately informed her of the situation, " Lorenzo is missing. Please search the house with the other staff best you can. Oh, and please have Benjamin come to the parlor here."

“Of course. I'm so sorry this is happening, Lottie. I knew something seemed strange that he would apparently come home without you, but…"Delilah drew off, her tone sad, but she did not seem all that surprised. Lorenzo had been strange, to say the least, since his wife's death. Nonetheless, she alerted the other staff to search the house, stating, "Yes, I will do so, right away."

Charlotte looked at Fritz, confessing, "I do not think he is here unless maybe he's sleeping somewhere odd …but I was quite loud, wasn't I?"

"Any louder, and I fear you'll call your neighbors." And no one wanted that. However, it did make Ryn wonder if there was any chance that Duke Vikena would visit Count Damien at this time of night. They may have disdained each other, but they were “close” enough to come to a mutual agreement to keep the cause of their "bad blood" a secret from Lady Vikena. Perhaps he could ask Peter later if he saw the Duke. "If he was in the house, I think he'd have to be a heavy sleeper, heavily sedated, unconscious, or he's in a soundproof room. In which case, I'd love to ask who made the room because its soundproof capabilities are impeccable."

She tapped her foot anxiously and wrapped her arms around herself at the mention of neighbors. Neighbor. I reckon he could be involved in this too… But Calbert made himself clear that he wanted Lorenzo home as I do right now... Unless tonight was the straw that broke the camel's back. The calm expression she had been wearing for the sake of Fritz and her own pride faltered a little, and she covered her mouth, turning away.

Ryn narrowed his eyes. His stern expression mismatched the adorable presence of the ferret, which remained carefully balanced on his head. “Wh–...”

“My entrance has been requested.”

Both Charlotte and Fritz glanced over, her hand falling from her face as Benjamin stood in the doorway, cane in hand. He was a bearded gentleman in a high-class suit and top hat with a rather serious countenance. He gave a bow to Charlotte and tipped his hat. “Good evening, M’lady.”

He leaned on his cane as he stepped forward toward the duo, telling his story before they could even ask questions, "When we arrived at the estate, Duke Vikena was somewhat inebriated. However, the man could still tread very well on his two feet and casually informed me he would slumber in his bed-chamber. I watched him make it into the estate before turning on my heels to place the horses in their stable."

So he had no intention of picking up Lady Vikena afterwards?

He came to a stop before Fritz and eyed him rather intensely. ”Hmm… Currently unidentifiable…Very well then. State your reason for this appearance in the Vikena establishment."

Ryn faced him with a smile, "Good evening to you too, Mr…." He had no idea what the carriage man's surname was, so he settled with, "Benjamin. I apologize for disturbing you at this hour, you must be terribly tired, but … well, you see, Lady Vikena could not return home in her family carriage, so I had the honor of escorting her here myself." He tilted his head slightly, and the ferret on top mimicked him in the opposite direction; two pairs of obsidian eyes stared right back at Benjamin, "I was offered tea, and I accepted. Now here I am enjoying what the Vikena establishment has to offer. Will this answer suffice, Mr. Benjamin?"

Benjamin stroked his beard repeatedly and thoughtfully. ”Ahh… This is a sufficient answer indeed "He then smiled at Ryn for a moment, but his eyes moved up to the ferret instead, petting his head, " I see you have made a friend of Kier… Lady Charlotte, I do believe he's a keep-"

”Benjamin. Why would you and Lorenzo leave without me?" Charlotte had no qualms interrupting at the moment. She stepped forward to come next to the pair and looked at him. Her tone was perhaps sharper and more commanding than usual. He was more recently employed, and she could not say she was close with Benjamin. He was usually pleasant enough despite being a rather strange fellow.

Benjamin was surprised to see Charlotte step out of her usual tone, even if it was slightly so. However, he was not hesitant with his reply. "Duke Vikena requested to abruptly leave at once. Being that he is my master, I obliged. Oh, and the maids who helped carry him to the carriage also informed us that you were staying the night at the castle with your friends… So you can imagine I was quite curious to see you here tonight… I sincerely apologize." It did not take long for him to notice Charlotte wasn't thrilled with his answer for some reason. Her brows were furrowed. His expression saddened. "...I think if the Duke is not within this estate, we should perhaps report him as missing as soon as possible so search parties can thus be conducted. Since I had a hand in causing this situation, I can be the one to do so."

Duke Vikena seemed to be a man who turned things into quite the ordeal, no matter how minor it began. His mistakes were likely not motivated by ill intent, or Ryn assumed so. Instead, trouble seemed to follow him about like faes had taken a shine to him, spreading mayhem and giggling at the resulting pandemonium.

The Caesonian court, as far as Ryn could gather, did not think much of Duke Vikena. With the palanquin incident still fresh in everyone's mind, announcing the Duke's disappearance would not help the Vikena's already tenuous situation. Lady Vikena's expression drew Ryn's attention. "Lady Vikena, it is your choice. Should we officially declare the Duke missing, or would you like to keep this in-house?"

Charlotte glanced between them and bit her lip as if withholding her thoughts. She finally stated, “...I want to look a while longer before declaring him missing… I do not think anyone’s checked the yard or garden..” She glanced at Ryn, “You can join me if you like… Thank you, Benjamin.” She did not look in Benjamin’s direction as she made her way out the door and outside again.

Ryn took one step forward, then halted, remembering that he still had a passenger. He carefully picked Kier from his head and placed him carefully down. Stroking him gently, Ryn bid the ferret farewell and quickly rushed outside to Lady Vikena’s side.

Fritz had followed her as she descended the steps down to the path and moved into the yard. The two agreed it would be more efficient to split up for a short while as Lorenzo had an extensive property here. There was a fountain, a chicken coop, and even a tiny stable. Charlotte had moved toward an area heavily covered in flowers.

Ryn was walking along the borders of Vikena’s estate when a familiar sound caught his attention. He checked his surroundings to see if anyone else was around before quietly approaching the sound’s source. As he moved close enough towards it, Peter dropped down from above, landing as soundlessly and gracefully as a cat.

“Is Calbert here?”
“He’s in his fancy house, taking a bath. So I thought I’d come by and say hi.” Peter stood and gave Ryn a toothy grin. “So, hi, Boss. How was your date with Lady Lottie?”
He must have seen Ryn and Lady Vikena walk past Count Damien’s estate. “I’m not sure if walking someone home constitutes a date.”
“Eh,” the man shrugged, “there are people out there who think apples soaked in armpit sweat counts as wooing. So yeah, it’s a date.”
“Well, the date is now a missing person’s case.”
“It couldn’t have been that bad, Boss,” Peter smirked.
Ryn chuckled lightly at that, “I haven’t scared Charlotte off just yet. It’s—...”
“Lorenzo.” Ryn could hear the acid in the redhead’s voice as he crossed his arms and frowned. “I wouldn’t be wasting your time worrying about him, Boss. It’s not like he’s been missing for days.”
“We may be overreacting to a grown man being gone for a few hours, that’s true, but the circumstance in which he left… leaving Charlotte alone in that castle without her knowing, seems odd.”
“Not according to C-Bert here.” Peter pointed his chin to the Damien estate. “When he heard that Lorenzo left, he said that it ‘was expected’.”
“Is that so? Did he say why?”
Peter shook his head, “And before you ask, C-Bert hasn’t met Lorenzo since the ball ended, and Lorenzo hasn’t paid the Damien estate a visit… Unless he came in the house before Calbert got home, they have a private room downstairs where they do their kinky sh*te.”
“You’re never going to drop that, are you?”
The count expected a joke to follow his question but was greeted only with an awkward silence, “They’re perfect for each other, in a way.”
Ryn searched Peter’s eyes, “Is there… something I’m missing here?”

Unable to maintain eye contact for long, Peter turned his gaze away, and he took off his hat to scratch his scalp in frustration. “I’m just annoyed with him. That’s all.” He made no attempt to clarify who he was annoyed with. When he placed his hat back on, Peter’s usual countenance returned as well, “Well, since we’re going to be talking about it anyway, there are a few things you should know.” He pointed a finger out, “Lady Lottie and C-Bert had a little chat. They talked about how she should kill herself like her mother and how everyone thought she was a whore and stuff like that. You know, the kind of banter me and Udo have.” A second finger jutted out. “C-Bert’s putting a lot of effort in keeping Lorenzo hidden away from the public eye. Did you know they have… had? An agreement that Lorenzo wasn’t supposed to attend events?”

“‘They’? As in between Charlotte and Calbert?”
“Based on how long he’s been out of the game… I’d say Lorenzo agreed too.”
“But… why? Why was that promise made in the first place? What would Calbert gain from such an arrangement?” Questions they had no answers to. Though Ryn started to feel that the late Duchess Vikena was at the center of it all. The biggest shard to the scattered answer Lady Vikena sought.
“More reason to dig in deeper, right Boss?” A sinister grin sprouted on the ginger’s face. “This oughta be fun.”

Sounds from a distance snapped Ryn’s head in its direction. “I should let you get back to work. Thank you for keeping me updated.”
“Well, I gotta prove that you don’t pay me just for my good looks.”
Ryn placed a hand over his mouth, “I don’t?”
“HA!” Peter kissed the air in Ryn’s direction. “I’ll head back to the castle in the morning.” He was about to turn away when Ryn remembered something he almost forgot.
“Before you go…” Ryn pulled out the soiled handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to Peter, “Mind sending this off?”
Peter squinted at the handkerchief and then looked at Ryn, puzzled. He wanted to ask what it was exactly but thought better of it. “To Wayra?” Peter placed the cloth into his pocket.
“As soon as you’re able.”
“Anything else?” When Ryn answered by shaking his head, Peter saluted him and turned around. And in a blink of an eye, Peter vanished from Ryn’s view.

Charlotte finally emerged and made her way over to Ryn. Their garden was rather large and complex, almost like a maze. It had taken her time to comb it through, but she felt that she had looked anywhere a grown man could be found, even glimpsing inside the tool shed and behind trees. It had also taken a moment longer since Nathaniel had informed her that no one could find any sign of Lorenzo inside the estate.

She raised her hand in a subtle wave as she came to stand at his side. Since Lorenzo was nowhere to be seen, she supposed Fritz did not have luck either. With a shaky breath, Charlotte said, “I guess he’s not here...”She rubbed her own arm as if to comfort herself, her gaze lowering, “... I’m really sorry about all this… We have, um, a guest bedroom if you are tired or anything.” Her gaze raised, and she looked at him with concern, ”If you’re hungry, I can get you something to eat as well.”

“That’s kind of you to offer, but I’ll be fine.”

Charlotte paused to glance down at her gown as the blue material shimmered in the moonlight, “Think I may go change into something more comfortable…”She knew the next step was to go walk about the kingdom. She definitely had to disturb the Calbert estate, but she wasn’t so sure she wanted to drag poor Fritz into that situation. He seemed to have a very kind soul, and it was certainly nice to make his acquaintance, but she had no business dragging him through the kingdom in the middle of the night.

She also knew it was technically possible Count Fritz could be someone sent to watch her by Calbert. Though she did not like to assume the worst in people, she knew after what happened that she should err on the side of caution…yet she felt in her gut that Count Fritz was someone she could trust. Thus, she had no intention of doubting him until he gave her a reason.

Ryn glanced at Lady Vikena’s dress at the mention of changing clothes. Thinking back on it now, it was probably one of the first things she should have done when she got home. The Northern Kingdom’s traditional formal party attire was notorious for feeling uncomfortable, and it only got worse the longer one wore it. “Will we be broadening our search beyond the Vikena estate, then? Do you know or know someone who knows where he might go?”

Charlotte hesitated, pursing her lips. Then, her gaze slid to the Damien estate. She sighed after a moment, hoping she would not regret this. “I think it’s time I tell you what I was upset about….Meet me in the front of the home.” She then retreated back into the house. Soon, Fritz would see her emerge in a simple purple dress. Her hair was tied back in a low ponytail, a lace ribbon holding her dark locks together. Though she was much more comfortable, she couldn’t shake feeling the way she did.

“Count Calbert approached me while I was up on the castle wall. He was behaving rather abnormal, moving toward me in a threatening manner.” She halted her words and stared at him,”I think he was trying to mess with my head, telling me to kill myself then saying it was a joke, changing moods, changing approaches… He may seem charming at first but be forewarned, he’s a dangerously manipulative man… Anyway, he was angry that Lorenzo went out tonight. Over the last year, he actually informed us that he did not want us to attend any events a few times. Perhaps he had meant we needed some time to grieve after my mother’s passing. However, it’s been a year.”

It all goes back to Duchess Vikena’s death.

Charlotte bit her lip as she felt the guilt set in again, ”I know if I said I hadn’t wanted to go tonight, he wouldn’t have, and we could have avoided all this. So in that way, perhaps he was right…yet… It still doesn’t make sense.” She took a moment to think before saying anything more.

Charlotte finally met his eyes, anxiety swimming in hers despite the firmness she pushed into her tone, “I think Lorenzo knows something he’s not supposed to, and Calbert is afraid he might tell someone. Terrified even.” She folded her arms, debating on saying more, but she eventually decided against it.

”I think Calbert is a good start tonight.”

As far as Peter could tell, Duke Vikena never went near Count Damien since the ball ended, so Ryn doubted that they would find the Duke there or if Count Damien would be gracious enough to point them in the right direction. They could only hope.

“Have you informed your servants where you will be going? We wouldn’t want them to think that another person went missing” Charlotte nodded. She had done so on the way outside.

Side by side, the pair exited the Vikena estate and made their way to the front gates of its neighbor. One could tell a lot by the exterior of a house. The Vikena’s estate was open, easily accessible from any side. Filled with vibrant and warm colors. Security-wise, it had a lot to be desired, but it was homely and welcoming.

In contrast, the Damien’s estate was precisely what one envisioned a nobleman’s mansion to look like. It was prestigious, scrupulously tidy, and above all else, aloof. The gates made of iron and stone separated the estate from the world. Whatever happened there… stayed there or went back to Montauppe.

Ryn glanced over at Lady Vikena to see how she was faring. His hand reached over, then quickly retreated. “It’ll be fine. I’m here.” Ryn was somewhat confident that the count would, at the very least, not be rude to her while he had an audience.

Charlotte looked at Fritz and gave him a small smile, perhaps the following words comforting herself as she whispered jokingly, “Pssh. Me? Scared of a pompous jerk like him? You must be confusing me for someone else.” She gave him a playful smile and flexed a thin, muscleless arm, but it was obviously trembling a little if one studied it. She was self-aware of how a punch from her would simply feel like a tickle, that sarcasm of hers finally making a return as she said, “They call me the big ol’ bruiser around here. I’m terrifying.”

“Good evening.”

She practically jumped out of her skin at the sudden sound of Calbert’s voice, her head whipping around to see him suddenly behind the gate, staring at them through the bars. His long black hair was damp, and he was in more comfortable yet somehow still fancy clothing. His intense blue eyes bore into her for just a second before a smile crossed his face, and he opened the gate.

“What a pleasant surprise!.” His tone and expression were both warm. Genuine. “Lady Charlotte, you’ll please have to introduce me to this gentleman here, but first, please assure me is… everything okay?”

Charlotte could hardly resist glaring at him, but she still held back. Thoughts of all the things she really wanted to say crossed her mind, but instead, she put on a small smile. “Um.. No, it’s not.” She glanced up at him, “Lorenzo is missing. I was wondering if you knew anything. He’s not with you, is he?”

A surprised look took over his expression, and he shook his head adamantly, “Oh dear. You poor thing. After the night you had…” He gave a sad sigh, “I’m so sorry. I haven’t seen him.” Calbert paused to open up the gate, coming to stand before them with a worried countenance, “How can I assist? …Maybe you should let the guards know, and you return home where you’re safe… It is getting late for you to be outside… Oh, if anything happened to you, it’d break my heart.” His voice cracked at the end of his words. It was strange how the man was so good at portraying his words in such a believable manner. If Charlotte hadn’t known the real Calbert, she might have even liked him at this moment. ”I am certain Lorenzo will be found safe and sound…He…. He’d never leave you alone, Lottie. “A hand fell on her shoulder comfortingly. “All will be alright.” His gaze moved to Ryn after letting the moment linger for a few seconds.

“My name is Calbert. Count Calbert of Montauppe.” He smiled as he introduced himself and bowed. “Thank you so much for accompanying our sweet Lottie. It is a comfort to know someone is with her tonight.”

Ryn returned the exact same smile and bowed just as Count Damien did. “I am Fritz Hendrix, Count of Erwynn. It is such a pleasure to meet the renowned Count Damien. I have heard so much about you!” He frowned slightly, “If only it were under better circumstances…” A woeful sigh escaped his lips, “Would… you happen to know where His Grace may have gone to? I’ve heard that you and Duke Vikena were the closest of friends. We were hoping that you may have some ideas…”

“Count Fritz Erwynn ! A marvelous name indeed for certainly a marvelous young man!” Calbert had said with gumption. His expression melted into a sadder one with his, “Hmm…Perhaps the library or…the tavern.” He relented with a sigh as if it were information he was reluctant to share. Calbert looked at Charlotte apologetically, who nodded her understanding,“I am sorry to reveal something perhaps indecent about your father. However, I know this is an emergency.”

Ryn’s eyes widened as if he was unaware of the Duke’s drinking problem, “I… see… Any particular tavern?” He could not deny the modicum of sadness he would feel if they did find the Duke in a drunken stupor in some tavern or dark alleyway, knowing that his daughter was left to fend for herself, but Ryn also wanted to trust the first instinct he had about the man.

“The Tough Tavern, right down the block from here.” He pointed him in the western direction they had walked from earlier.

Ryn’s eyes followed Count Damien’s finger before moving to Lady Vikena’s direction. He nodded to her, turned to the count, and bowed, “Thank you so much for your time, Count Damien. We shall head over there immediately.” When he straightened up, he smiled, “I hope you have a wonderful evening, Count Damien.” He turned to Lady Vikena, “Shall we?”

”We shall.”Charlotte was more than happy to walk away from Count Damien’s house and towards the tavern. She offered her arm out with a smile she managed. Fritz took it without hesitation, and they both walked away.

Once they were far enough away, Count Damien had whispered to his advisor Henry to find out more about “Count Fritz Erwynn.” In the shadows, another figure rubbed their tongue against the gap between their teeth as they grinned. Amber eyes shone with excitement. An owl hooted in the trees nearby and flew away, its feet clenched around a small furry thing.

After the two walked some distance away from the Damien estate, the smile he kept up for the count dropped, “He is very talented. Almost think he missed his calling as a thespian.” At surface level, everything Count Damien did and said was exactly what it was. However, like his house, Ryn could feel that cold iron gate that safely hid things away from the world. In every gesture, there was a different undertone to it. Subtle enough for the casual observer to miss, yet ever-present.

“Oh, he certainly thinks he’s on a stage performing a play.” Charlotte had agreed with an eye roll. They came to a stop before the small tavern. It was shabby-looking and not the most welcoming. She glanced across the street at the other buildings. She noticed giggling women in front of them, trying to wave over passer-byers. It took a long moment to click on what she was looking at. Oh. This is almost the slums… Her gaze moved to the old buildings at the end of Lover’s Lane. She shook off her thoughts and then opened the door to the tavern, holding it open for Fritz to join her.

However, as soon as they entered, all eyes zoomed on them, and the chatter abruptly halted. One could hear a pin drop at that moment. A very tall and muscular woman with a bandana around her forehead was by the window. She shut the window suddenly, whirling on them. Her footsteps were heavy and loud as she made her way over to suddenly slam the door shut behind them. Her fist was just inches from Charlotte’s head. Pieces of her hair had frizzed up from the wind of her movement.

Charlotte blinked. It had been so surprised she had not been able to flinch. Instead, she scooted closer to Fritz ever so subtly with slow movements. Her eyes slowly slid to look at the muscular woman.

”Maxwell saw you pass by in fancy dress.” The woman boomed, her eyes glaring down. After she spoke, she pointed at the man she had waved at earlier, still sitting by the bar. He looked absolutely annoyed. In fact, everyone here did.

True, Lady Vikena must have stood out in that dress, especially around an establishment such as this one, but how did this woman know that Lady Vikena was the lady wearing the big fancy dress? Combined with her rushed action to cut off their exits, it felt as though they were being trapped inside.

”Noble girl sees all us here poor and thinks she can buy all our booze? Eh? You and pipsqueak here?” She poked her in the chest, making her stumble backward against the door. ”You change clothing to come trick us? Take advantage of us somehow, yes?” Charlotte had glanced down as she had been poked both with surprise and slight curiosity.

”Uhh no, no… Sorry. I did not actually plan on errmm… buying anything.” Charlotte had meekly told her, very much intimidated by her huge fist. The woman did not seem impressed with her answer.

On the other hand, Ryn did not look or feel the slightest bit threatened by the aggression displayed by the woman. The fact that she did not actually hit Lady Vikena when she had the chance to and that the others looked more annoyed than anything suggested that they were not looking for trouble. Assuming this was not a trap, then it could mean that they simply wanted to scare the pompous nobles enough to make them think twice about entering their sacred domain in the future, the one place they did not have to worry about the upper class. Regardless of the situation, the duo needed to pacify them, and what did tavern patrons love getting?

Fingers loosened up his shirt to give it a more rugged aesthetic and ruffled his hair a bit to accentuate the new style, “What, don’t you tell me the folk in Sorian have something against getting free drinks? Awful shame that is.”

As the woman narrowed her eyes, ready to say more, Ryn’s voice called her attention. Her brow raised at his hair. ”Huh! You think you can just ruffle your hair and flatter me, BOY? Pfft!“

“Ah, but it does flatter you.” He waved his hand to the man behind the bar and shouted, “Hey, barkeep, give everyone here a round of drinks, my treat.”

The burly woman’s lips parted to protest, then closed. ”Eh. Guess you are okay, pipsqueak.” She shrugged and moved over to enjoy a drink. The others in the room had also all scrambled to the bar.

Ryn carefully guided Lady Vikena towards the bar counter, shielding her from their aggressor, as many of the patrons cheered at the sudden gift of free liquor. Ryn placed some coins, more than enough to cover all the drinks and then some, down on the countertop.

Charlotte leaned in with wide eyes, smiling, ”Wow, Count Fritz…That was like a scene out of a novel.” She whispered with a giggle. “You’re incredible at that…Here let me help.” She began rummaging into her dress pocket for her pouch of coins. She then gently took Fritz’s hand and placed some coins in his palm. Fritz looked as though he was ready to decline the coins, but after a moment’s pause, he thanked her and pocketed them.

He was clearly adept at adjusting to this situation, which was interesting for a noble man. However, she supposed that this was her first time even being in a bar of any sort did put her at a slight disadvantage. There had been no way to know what to expect, but it certainly had not been that. I froze up there like I always do… Goodness, I really need to get out more. Charlotte thought. Her gaze slid to Fritz. He’s not always going to be there to have my back like this. And neither is Lorenzo clearly… I need to change if things are going to be like this now.

She sighed and let go of it all for the moment. They were here to find Lorenzo.

Charlotte craned her neck and took a moment to look about the room. No one remotely resembled Lorenzo crossed her vision, but Maxwell did. He gave her another one of those award-winning smiles. In closer proximity to the bearded fellow, she could tell he was intoxicated out of his mind. He barely was balancing on his stool.

Looks like you have some charisma too, Lottie ol’ girl. Got yourself a friend!

Charlotte gave him a smile back and waved, mouthing a hello to him enthusiastically. Maxwell attempted to blow a kiss only to stumble off his stool and onto his feet. Others around him uproar in laughter. She sucked in air as if empathizing with his pain. “Well. Should we split up and ask around?” She asked without glancing Fritz's way.

“Sounds like the best course of action. I’ll start with these people.” He eyed the customers gathered at the counter.

Charlotte took in a deep breath and rose from her seat.

I can do this. I will be like Count Fritz and be observant of my surroundings. I know what to say. Stay calm… Stay cool.

[Alivefalling]

Anastasia & Marek

---

Marek had been standing above the party on the balcony around the perimeter of the room. He was looking downward, with disgust in his eyes, at these depraved and repulsive people who knew nothing of the reality they were in. They so easily ignored the obvious in pursuit of an escape from their lives. Their lives were filled with excess. So, excess is just what he would give them here. However, this time they’d finally bare the consequence of said excess. He watched as infuriated nobles on one side of the room in the ring beat each other to near death. The rage in their eyes was unlike anything seen before. In another corner, a couple, who was certain had just met each other, were practically ripping the clothes off each other in the middle of the party before being escorted into a back room.

He grimaced in disgust. ...Animals. But what a show this will be.

Speaking of the depraved, the voice of the young princess came from below as she called up to him.

Marek looked toward the voice. He smiled and made his way down the stairs towards her. “Come with me.” He said not giving another word as he made his way towards one of the secluded rooms.

Anastasia followed after him like a clueless puppy. ”Woowwee!” She darted into the room and spun around in a circle to observe her surroundings. It was like a fancy-schmancy room with lots of couches and… She took a long sip of her drink as her eyes set on the bed, stifling a laugh. ” There’s a bed in here? Are these like… Sex rooms!?” The laughter burst out as she asked, ” Hahaha! What is this, Marek?”

Marek walked over and sat on a chair in the side of the room. “One could call it that I guess but I am only here to talk. So, how was the ball anything interesting on your part?” He wasn’t entertained by her giddy personality. She was always like this, so he would have to deal with it if he wanted to get what he wanted.

“Mmm kay.” She downed the rest of her drink and set the glass on the side table. Next, she plopped down on the bed. Anastasia took a moment to enjoy the softness.This is so comfortable!

“Oh yeah! The ball.” She had been distracted by the bed for a few seconds. “You know that Duke Lorenzo Vikena guy? He walked in late and thought the Alidasht were performers. He said a bunch of dumb stuff, then totally managed to trip all of them. Even the Sultan fell out of his chair thing.” She giggled as she explained. “I took the opportunity to lead these cute people I found to my bedroom and play some strip poker so I don’t know what happened next… BUT! I did come back later and I had the opportunity to dance with my Wystan. He’s so sweet, Marek. You don’t even know.”

“Ah, well it seems you had fun… Did Wystan say anything interesting?” Marek was intrigued by her side of things he had been told about most of the big events of the ball that had happened already but personal conversations were key to everything.

“Everything he says is interesting!” Her eyes might as well have had hearts in them. ” I think he might care about me, but… I dunno. Sometimes I’m not sure if I mean anything to anyone or if I’m just a burden.” Despite the words having some heaviness to them, her smile did not waver.

“Of course you mean something to someone. I mean I took you aside to talk. That must mean you have some importance to me if I pull myself away from the party I hosted.” Marek knew that if he wanted to keep the girl under his wing, he would have to play a few games to do so. It didn’t seem she had any good information but that did not mean she would not the next time. She had divulged important information in the past after all.

“Really! Are we best friends now, Marek?” She suddenly hopped up to her feet. Her tone had changed and she had a new look in her eyes. It was clear the cocktail was starting to enchant her. “I feel like giving you a hug right now.” Anastasia announced and reached out her arms, wriggling her fingers.

“I guess you could call it that. But I am not one to enjoy hugs. Also, it would mess up my clothing so I have to refuse. I apologize.” He told her, resting in the chair with his hands on his lap.

”Marek… Come on. You need a hug.”

“I assure you, I really don’t but I appreciate the offer and your insistence.” He gave her a pleasant smile. “I don’t really want to hold you from the party too long. Maybe we can talk a little later, besides I have some things I need to handle and make sure everything goes well with the night. Your brother must be lonely out there after all. Thank you for coming to talk with me.” Marek subtly dismissed her, while keeping a friendly demeanor. No information was found yet but maybe there would be a few to open up tonight.

She had frowned but upon mention of her brother, she did feel a rush of appreciation and concern for him. ”Okay! Thanks for the chat and party!” Anastasia waved and then walked back out of the backroom, in pursuit of checking on her adorable little brother.

Marek had made his way out after, back to his position above the party. He talked to a few masked people in passing as he moved about.

[Potter]

---

Time: Evening
Location: Marek’s After Party
Attire: Evening Outfit & Mask
Interactions: @princess Anastasia
Mentions: @ReusableSword Roman ★ @Helo Leo/Callum ★ @13org Mayet ★ @Infinite Cosmos Munir ★ @Rodiak Nahir/Zarai ★ @samreaper Kazumin ★ @mantou Wystan

---

The ball had ended and Ezra had slid out unnoticed. The princes and princesses had been busy with their noble friends. He didn’t need to stay and introduce himself yet. He was a nobody among the sea of nobles. His cakes though hadn’t gone untouched which was the satisfaction he needed. The seeds were planted. He had grinned as he slipped out after watching. Anastasia, the queen and angel she was, had eaten enough of them. The silly, foolish girl was not the sharpest tool in the shed but he didn’t mind. In fact, he enjoyed it. The princes and watchdog had failed and didn’t know it yet. The giddiness was barely containable as he left the palace, grinning from ear to ear.

Now he sat in a carriage with a box on his lap. The invitation had been stolen by Victoire from an unwatchful noble. Ezra had changed into a new outfit [picture coming]. Besides him stood Torie, who had agreed to watch from a distance. If things went south, he had backup. Ezra slicked his hair back and glanced out the window. Finally, after what seemed like hours, he had arrived at Marek’s after-party. He nodded to the driver cloaked in black and hooded as to hide their identity. Then his door was opened and he stepped out, nodding to the people at the side. ”Keep an eye out. The watchdog might be close.” The girl nodded and disappeared along with Torie. Ezra grabbed the box and headed into the party and took the mask that was offered.

With a grin hidden by his mask, he scoped out the room. The Alidasht party, save for the oldest, was here; Roman, a blacksmith he wasn’t concerned with; Prince Leo- a groan nearly escaped him; Prince Callum, the world’s failure and disappointment; the stupid blonde that danced with his angel; and then finally, a noblewoman he didn’t recognize. He sized up the party and kept an eye on the Alidasht, who were the unknown and unfamiliar people. His facial muscles twitched briefly, but he let a smile cover his face as he approached the bar. With a sweet smile, he ordered The Noble’s Venom.

She emerged from a backroom with Marek not too far behind. He quickly approached Anastasia with the box cradled in his arms and the drink in the other. ”Good evening Princess.” He greeted in a low undertone. ”I baked these for you.” If she took the box and opened it, she’d see nine cupcakes, each adorned with pink and white frosting. In the middle of each cupcake was a letter, all of them lined up neatly to spell “Anastasia”. Ezra grinned and pressed the drink into her hand. ”Oh and a drink to wash it down. I thought you’d enjoy it.” Ezra smiled sweetly with a glint in his eyes.

[Helo]

Time: Night
Location: 420 Wicker St, Badass Party Warehouse
Interaction: Roman @ReusableSword

Callum, already wrapped in the embrace of several glasses worth of wine from the previous party, stood near the stairs leading into the party, transfixed on the ever-changing colors of dancing lights, swaying slightly in tune with the music. For a few undisturbed minutes that was all that existed, just the lights, the strange thumping beat of unearthly music, and the completely relaxing feeling of no one paying any sort of attention to him. Here in the basement of some old warehouse, no one cared who he was, who his family was, and this was a space where none of that mattered. A place that was strange and pretty and loud in a way that drowned out the rest of the world, and it was nearly perfect.

“CALLUM!”

A booming voice cut through the beat, snapping his attention in the direction of the bar. There was Roman, a Varian nobleman who seemed more like a mountain than a man. Despite being surrounded by the same nest of vipers as the rest, Roman always appeared as unbothered by such snakes as any mountain would, immune to their venom and never noticing their hissed threats and bared fangs. This easy confidence was just one of the many qualities Cal admired in the mountain that was a man.

“Come drink with your old friend, it’s been too long.”

His welcoming presence and strong liver were another set of fine qualities. Without a second thought, Cal made his way through the crowd of people towards the voice that had called out to him, finding a place near the bar beside Roman. “Roman, how are things in Emberrock?” He asked.

The Ravenwood family, an anomaly amongst the nobility, as they seemed to have actually earned their titles based on their hard work. A family of smiths and craftsmen, everything they touched was like a work of art, even tools of violence were made to look beautiful. He often wondered what it was like to be a part of a family that created things for the world rather than just taking things from the world. “Enjoying your time in Sorian? I’ll bet they don’t have parties like this in Varian.” He added, turning to look around at the warehouse again before shifting his attention back towards the bartender who approached to take drink orders.

Callum looked around the bar, its shelves stocked with bottles of every fine liquor one could imagine. The offerings of beer, wine, and liquor were already more than enough to make the warehouse seem like a piece of heaven, but it was the listing of strange cocktails called out to him. Something different, unique, that felt perfectly aligned with the rest of the energy inside the warehouse. And one, named The Noble’s Venom, called out the loudest. “The Noble’s Venom,” he said to the bartender. More called out to him, the bottles that lined the shelves of the bar which held so many other venom’s he was accustomed to but he held back. Cal had made a promise he intended to keep; to return to the palace before dawn without any incidents. Drinking himself into oblivion would certainly interfere with that, but a drink or two surely couldn’t hurt much. “And a beer, whatever he got.” He added before looking his attention back to Roman.

[samreaper]

Senor Chavez

Currently wearing: Caesonian traditional formal wear, black party mask

Hider

(Minus the gloves and cape)

Location: Afterparty Warehouse
Interactions: Roman @Reusablesword Callum @Helo Anastasia @princess Ezra @Potter
Mentions: Mayet @13org Zarai & Nahir @Rodiak Munir @infinite cosmos

---

A single glance around the room was all it took to tell that this a party unlike anything the simple farmer had ever been to or any peasant in fact. It was almost overwhelming even to see people publicly rubbing against each other and making out without hint of shame and even...a boxing ring apparently of which from the sounds coming from its direction the fights were pretty hardcore.

Kazu could do nothing but gawk at what he was witnessing. Then there were the holograms which was freaking the still slightly buzzed blonde out a bit prompting him to avert his gaze and in doing so would spot Zarai chatting with one of the Alidasht royals, the woman he recalled seeming the calmest among the siblings during the earlier incident.* Seeing as how I've met Mayet, its only fair to meet the others and need to be sure to greet Zai sometime this night.* Making a mental note to do so though hoped the booze wouldn't have him forget. And shortly after thinking about said person he then saw Mayet minus Nala; no surprise there as he doubted the tigress would enjoy being in such an uncomfortably loud and boisterous place and around a bunch of drunks that were certain to harass thus leading to some bloody incident. If possible he would greet her sometime as well...assuming he wasn't plastered then there was Munir who he could tell by first look to be the playboy type. An interesting man for certain, but also a dangerous one as well so any interaction with him was likely to be unexpected but intriguing to say the least.

An amused grin formed on his lips as he took in how everyone had already moved off and getting settled as if such a place was normal and natural to them. However, one person seemed to be missing and a few scanning attempts through the bustling crowd of people dancing and chatting failed to find the giddy princess. Though seeing as how she looked the most natural in this place and figured she simply disappeared to one of the hidden parts of the room unknown to one so new to such a party set-up.

* I'm sure she will pop up eventually. I'll greet and thank her properly when she does. Guess now is no better time to partake of this place specialty drinks.* Rubbing his hands together at the thought of finally being able to get his hands on proper booze after enduring three long dry months as the lackluster wine did nothing to slake his thirst.

Having spent long enough time gawking and taking in the sights, the masked blonde strolled his way over to the bar; doing so with confidence in his stride to give the allure that he rightfully belonged here and not someone out of their element.

He reached the bar before long where he took notice of the two gentlemen that he recalled seeing briefly in the carriage and thought now was the most fitting to introduce himself. Before continuing on though, Kazu took a moment working on getting into character for the rest of the night Kazumin the farmer would not exist and in his place shall be Senor Chavez, the masked chicken fighter!

Inhaling, Chavez was taken in then exhaling Kazumin, his eyes opened followed with the straightening of his posture to better lend the appearance of the noble persona he guised and with it that wide friendly grin shrank to a small confident and cloying smirk.

Strolling over to Roman and Callum." Hola senores!" He greeted in s forced Spanish accent that somehow sounded both decent and bad almost at the same time." Senor Chavez apologizes for not offering proper greetings earlier and hopes he is not intruding or interrupting." He followed up with a small bow and waving flair of his left hand." Chavez hopes that we may share in drinks and enjoy the splendors of this fiesta together, no?" Flashing that cloying smirk then made his way to the counter.

Upon reaching the counter he soon saw the sign detailing the cocktails of which looked like nothing he had ever seen before and Ka- Chavez has seen his fair share of booze. Instantly intrigued at what he was seeing, the images alone left him noticing just how dry his throat was as he smacked his lips in anticipation of washing the measly wine swill from his tongue. And from the looks of these drinks; promised an experience wholly new to this experienced drinker.

" Pardon senorita!" He called out to the bartender while holding up his right hand to get the woman's attention." Chavez has partaken of the cocktail menu and have chosen his selection. I shall take life of the party as of course that is Chavez." He said with a sly chuckle and indicating wave of his hand to himself with a small smug smirk." Chavez shall also take one's fever dream, por favor." Both of these drinks had caught his eye and seemed to balance each other well with the sweetness and sourness.

The bartender looked at the strange masked blonde talking in that somewhat poor mexican accent leaving her unable to tell if the guy was already on a bunch of drugs." Um, sir. I don't recommend having more than one cocktail. I advi-

" Hey hey hey!" Tapping his finger against the counter with each hey to further get his point across after cutting the woman off." Chavez does not asking for warnings or advice! Kindly give Chavez the cocktails he has requested, senorita bartender." He demanded in a somewhat annoyed and curt manner.

Glaring, the woman gave a shrug of her shoulders." Alright, whatever happens...don't say I didn't try to warn you." She was here just to give out drinks and if customers wanted to get themselves fucked up then they were free to do so.

It didn't take long for the drinks to be placed before him and immediately sweet smell of kiwi and mixture of berries filled his nostrils. Within seconds his mouth was salivating, and his eyes were lost in the twinkling beauty of the fever dream." Ah, gracias senorita. Chavez cannot help but offer compliments for such works of art. Almost a shame to drink them, but Chavez is not one to waste the effort of a hardworking bartender or liquor." Gently picking up a glass in each hand then offering a small toast of the right one which earned him a scoffing roll of the eyes before leaving to tend to other customers.

He took a minute to admire the colorful and glittery drinks having never seen cocktails such as these before. Once finished with his admiration he lifted the fever dream where he took a slow and deep draw of its scent wanting to drink it in with his nose first then took a sampling sip. The moment the booze graced his tongue a groan of delight escaped his lips; tasting strawberries, blackberries and candy with none of the unpleasant taste that typically accompanies most liquor to tarnish the flavor." Truly a drink befitting for nobles to partake of and savor." Letting it sit and tickle his tastebuds a moment longer before taking a more proper sip, finally quenching his horribly dry throat and longing for proper booze.

Turning away from the counter to face the two gentlemen who were also in the midst of enjoying their drink." We should consider ourselves lucky to be able to share in such wondrous drinks such as these amongst fellow gentlemen, si." This time giving a toast to Roman and Callum as he sipped away at the fever dream.

It was then in the midst of drinking that he finally spotted the missing princess who had been approached by some unknown individual holding a box and while he might have normally waited till the current interaction was finished before approaching, but Chavez was not one to wait." Uno momento Senors. Apologies but there is a lady I wish to greet before she vanishes and is lost to the fiesta." Nodding his head to them then downed the rest of the fever dream, placing the empty glass on the counter before setting off towards where Anastasia and unknown companion were.

" Hola, Princesa Ani!" He exclaimed his greeting in a joyfully boisterous manner while holding out his right arm in arc like motion, careful not to spill the life of the party still held in his left hand." Senor Chavez has found you. You are indeed skilled in the art of hide-n-seek." He said with a chuckle while approaching the pair." Do forgive for the interruption, but Chavez wished to greet and properly thank the one that allowed Chavez to come and enjoy this wonderful fiesta before these cocktails can adle the mind." Turning his attention to the stranger while sporting a cloying grin." Chavez hopes you do not mind in my joining and sharing of the conversation with the lovely princesa, I promise not to linger for long good Senor." Giving a small bow of respect in his offer of apologies and in doing so got a whiff of the cupcakes, the allure too strong for this lover of sweets to resist and glanced into the box.

Inside he saw a most delicious array of cupcakes though the fact they spelled out Ani's name was...peculiar but he figured that this guy must be friends to do such a seemingly nice act." Ah, Chavez see's that your friend here has brought princesa Ani some scrumptious cupcakes. Did you make these, Senor?" Asking with a big grin returning to his previously smirking lips as he finally took to taking a sip of his second cocktail and was surprised to find his lips puckering from the unexpected sourness and his eyes to tear up a tad.

A smack of his lips." These drinks are truly a wonder. Forgive Chavez for asking, but the sourness of this proved stronger than expected. Would it be prudent of me to ask to have a taste of one of those delicious treats to lessen the sourness of my drink?"

[13org]

Time: Evening
Location: The After Party
Attire: Dress
Interactions: @Rodiak Nahir, @Infinite Cosmos Munir, @samreaper Kazumin, @Reusablesword Roman, @Helo Callum.
Mentions: @Princess Anastasia,

---

After wearing the white mask that was given by the strange man, Mayet was able to take a better look around and she was quickly able to confirm that the initial impressions did not disappoint. On one of the sides of the big room they were in, attracting quite a crowd, there was a boxing ring, where two muscular men were fighting each other, being cheered by the crowd watching, most of them having bet money on one of the two fighters.

"A boxing ring, hm...? Interesting..." Mayet said with a mischievous smirk as she glanced towards the ring and the people crowding near it. Maybe bringing her blade was the correct choice after all. Who knows... Maybe the crowd might like some friendly sparring. As long as her blade is covered and no one gets hurt, it might be quite entertaining.

In the other side of the room though, there was a different type of party going on. The type of party where inhibitions, reservations and shame were left at the door as scantily clad women danced on poles and many of the guests were making out and flirting with one another.

"I see now why this after party was supposed to be a secret... The court would definitely be turned upside down if they knew what was going on here." Mayet said raising an eyebrow as she looked through some of the guests in the other side of the room, some of which were probably high ranking nobles.

"Definitely the kind of party my dear brother likes, isn't it?" Mayet asked, turning to Munir with a mischievous smirk.

After making their entrance to such an extravagant party, each member of their little 'group' had mostly gone on their separate ways. Princess Anastasia, surprisingly enough, seemed to be quite comfortable despite everything that was going on, enough even to go excitedly talk with one of the guests. Certainly quite an... 'unique' personality for a princess.

Nahir, who seemed to have already made a new friend, went straight to the bar for a drink. At first, Mayet didn't feel like drinking yet, but the moment Nahir asked her drink and Mayet too a glance at the exquisite drink Nahir had asked for herself, she simply couldn't contain her curiosity.

"Dear sister Nahir, I was never someone to enjoy alcohol that much, but you got yourself quite the drink, didn't you?" Mayet said, approaching Nahir with a curious expression as she peeked over her shoulder, looking at the drink she had gotten for herself.

Carefully decorated with rose petals and gold, the delicate colored drink swirled with an almost magical appeal. The smell of roses coming from the drink only made Mayet even more curious as to how it tasted like.

"I will have the same as she did." Mayet said, looking to the bartender with a curious expression, trying to take a glance on how that beautiful drink was prepared.

While the bartender did give her a show, thanks to her agile and dexterous hands, unfortunately, Mayet wasn't able to see much about how the drink was done, as before she even knew, the drink was already done.
Despite that, the drink was still quite a marvel. A small sip revealed quite an unique, delicate taste of grapefruit and apple, but a surprising spicy kick to it as well, making quite an interesting combination.

"'Douse the Thirst', wasn't it? Simply fantastic!" Mayet said, praising the bartender with a satisfied nod as she took another sip of the drink.

Instead of downing the entire drink in one go, Mayet was slowly savoring it, taking small sips as to completely appreciate the complex and delicate flavor.

Just as she turned and began walking towards the rest of the party, her eyes were drown to a rather familiar, 'mountain' of a man. Even from a distance, Mayet almost immediately knew who he was. With a mischievous smirk on her face, she began walking towards the table he was sitting at, talking with two other nobles, one of which had a suspiciously familiar blonde hair.

"I think you might need more than just a small mask to hide your identity, Lord Roman." Mayet said, sneaking up on Roman's back and leaning forward, whispering on his ear in a low tone before she gave a step back, revealing herself.

"I hope I'm not interrupting anything." Mayet said to both men, pulling a seat just besides Roman and sitting down as well.

Despite the strong Spanish accent, the very familiar blonde hair was a dead giveaway for Kazumin. Regarding the other man, While not that familiar with the other man, she still recognized him as being Callum, thanks to being among the high ranking nobles back at the ball and due to the fact that he had came to the after party in the same carriage she did.

[princess]

Time:Evening
Location: Marek's Afterparty
Interactions: @Potter Ezra @samreaper Kazumin
Attire:An Outfit that would make her mother faint

---

Anastasia gasped in surprise as Ezra approached, "Baker boy at the party! Whaaat!" Her hands moved to cup her face. He was one of the last people she expected to end up here. Yet there he was, long green hair and all.

Her gaze went to the box in his hands. He had brought her a gift? Taking the box in hand, she opened it up and took in the sight of her name spelled out on the cupcakes. She was distracted with her thoughts for a moment as a drink was slid into her hand. A frown tugged at the corners of her lips as her hand lazily grasped the drink. Her head rose up and she met his eyes. For a split second, the scenery changed behind him and a bad feeling formed in her gut, screaming at her to run. The hairs on the back of her neck stood up.

Then, admiration and gratitude overwhelmed her. Her pupils might as well have turned into hearts.

That bad gut feeling was one she ignored on purpose on a daily basis anyway. She smiled wide, "...Ezra right? I think you might just be sweeter than the wonderful cakes you bake." She set the box delicately on a nearby table along with her drink, then turned back to Ezra with tears in her eyes. Though, she was not certain if they had formed for the reason she displayed. "No one's ever done something so nice. ...Ezra... You came all the way here just to give me these? You're so amazing! I can't believe this!" Anastasia moved up to him and threw her arms around him in a hug, "Thank you so much! You are the best person in all of Caesonia! I could kiss you!"

A voice that filled her with just as much excitement filled the air. She gently let go of Ezra, rubbing his arms affectionately before he turned to face Kazumin. "Kazoo! My best friend!" She exclaimed in pure glee. His words brought upon giggling. "Oh my! Senor Chavez! You've found me... Senorita.. Cupcakita!" Anastasia seemed to be bursting with a powerful energy she was trying to repress as she awaited him to finish his words. Once he had, she suddenly threw her arms around him in a hug, "Oh my gosh! I love you Kazoo... OH! I mean Senor Chavez! I'm so happy we're friends! And-" She broke away as her eyes teared up once again. "I am so so so sooo sorry! I should have told you that I'm the princess! I was going to, I swear, then I got distracted by the fun spinning and then Wolfy came over and it was too late!" She rambled apologetically as if her life was on the line. "Please forgive me! Ezra, please let him have a cupcake!"

Anastasia whirled on Ezra with puppy dog eyes.

[Helo]

Time: Night
Location: 420 Wicker St. Righteous Rave Warehouse
Interactions: Anastasia @princess, Ezra @Potter, Chavez @samreaper

Upon finishing the drink, and leaving the emptied glass on a nearby table, Leo found himself more and more drawn in by the music. The rhythmic thumping reverberated in his chest, lifted him, and left him with the sensation of simultaneously being embraced by the most comforting hug and floating at the same time. Leo couldn’t remember feeling anything quite like this, certainly, no full night of drinking had ever felt as incredible as this single drink.

He was no longer able to simply walk about the party, he bounced on his feet, moving with the beat, allowing himself to be consumed by it. Dancing to this was nothing like a waltz, no need for perfection in the movements, nothing was precise or meticulous, it was all uninhibited freedom. The beat of his heart quickly began to surpass the beat of the music, thumping harder against his chest. Nothing in him wanted to be still, his teeth grinding back and forth and going unnoticed as he became more and more entranced with everything going on around him. Dilated eyes took in everything, pretty lights, pretty faces, and an energy all around him that made any expression besides a genuine ear-to-ear grin simply impossible.

Then he noted a pop of green hair worming its way towards Anastasia with energy that didn’t match the rest of the party. An instant bad vibe, and even at a party where titles were left at the door, Leo knew they were long from being forgotten entirely. Anastasia was still a princess, one who was far too trusting, and the green-haired and weasel-faced man was handing her a drink and a present. There wasn’t much thinking between him watching the exchange and him making his way towards the two of them. Anastasia was one of Thea’s closest friends, Wulfric’s baby sister, and seeing as how Callum was inadequate at keeping watch over her, Leo slithered between the two of them, throwing his arms around each of their shoulders.

“‘Stas, and” He paused and looked from Anastasia to the green-haired man, and towards the cowlicked infernal blond from the ball, and added, “Cowlick and Cupcake Man.” He said, voice booming over the music, continuing to bounce up and down to the beat.

“I don’t know what this song is but I love it.” He continued, glancing at the cupcakes and back at Ezra, his grin widened further. “Look at you, bringing cupcakes for the lady. You got yourself a crush?” He asked removing his arms from the two of them, slapping the baker lightly on the shoulder. Leo, despite being under the influence, still knew what he was doing, stirring the pot just to see how Ezra would react. He moved over to the table where the box of cupcakes sat before swiping some of the frosting and tasting it. ”Hey! Pretty good.” He said, head nodding and continuing to do so as he bopped to the music.

His attention quickly turned to the cowlick blond who now seemed far less infernal than he had at the bar, his energy seemed nothing like the baker’s, a far better frequency came from Kazu. “I don’t think we’ve met, I’m Leo.” He waved at the blond and clapped his hands together once before shuffling his feet as the beat dropped once more. “You ever been to a party like this before? It’s amazing!” He added.

[Potter]

Time: Evening
Location: Marek’s After Party
Attire: Evening Outfit & Mask
Interactions: @princess Anastasia
Mentions: @ReusableSword Roman, @Helo Leo & Callum, @13org Mayet @Infinite Cosmos Munir, @Rodiak Nahir/Zarai, @samreaper Kazumin

---

Ezra scrutinized Anastasia’s response. At first he could see her fear and worry, then a split second later, it was replaced by admiration and gratitude. He smirked victoriously as he listened to her speak. Her voice was prettier than a piano and she was easier to play than a violin. Her smile lit up his world like the sunrise. If he were the moon, he’d cry every day. His grin went from ear to ear and noticed her tears. At first it puzzled him, but when she spoke, he feigned concern and sadness. ”Yes, my name is Ezra and you’re most welcome. I would accept any form of gratitude.” His voice became teasing at the end as he nodded to the cupcakes and returned her hug. He held on for a brief moment then let go. ”I enjoy baking and would be happy to make you whatever you'd like.”

Though it was going perfectly, it would not last. No, the stupid cowlick blond had joined. Ezra held back a sigh as he listened to his false accent. He turned away so he could roll his eyes and pretended to cough so nobody noticed. Once he returned to his normal posture, he was disappointed to find the idiot still speaking. Why did someone so annoying and stupid walk this Earth? ”Quite all right with me,” He replied as he observed the man and his demeanor. He was not worried in the slightest about him; he’d be an easy bug to squash.

The poor princess was babbling again and was under the influence of her drink. He glanced down at it and snickered. Oh my Darling? What a perfect choice. This would be too good to be true. Apparently the moron and her were friends which he found he could use to his advantage. When she turned to him with the puppy dog eyes, he found butterflies fluttering in his stomach and turned away. ”Go right ahead,” he waved to the cupcakes and glanced at Anastasia. ”As long as she doesn’t mind.”

Then, as if the Gods were taunting him, Lord Leo joined. Ezra’s eyes twitched for a moment and then a generous smile warmed over his face. Ezra knew Leo wanted to get under his skin so he’d have to return the favor. The music was making it difficult for them to be overheard thankfully, but Leo’s voice carried over it anyways. Why did such a pest exist? Didn’t he have a drunk and useless sister to watch over? Where was she anyway? ”It is good music.” He agreed as he leaned up against the wall with a grin. ”Something like that.” He replied as he watched him carefully like a lion seizing up a hyena. Ezra remained calm and collected, knowing if he showed any negative reaction it’d only push Leo farther. The slight hit on his shoulder made him roll his eyes. ”Thanks man. I have more treats back at my shop if you’re interested.” He wasn’t concerned with the others eating his cupcakes, as it only furthered his goals. Ezra smiled as he watched him bop to the music and nodded to his drink.

”I’m glad you could join us Leo. It begs the question though, where is your dear sister? She seems like she’d enjoy the party.” He returned the favor and scrutinized his expression in return. ”Aren’t Annie and her good friends?” Ezra glanced at Anastasia and smiled at her sweetly, ”Don’t want to be the last to eat the cupcake, right?” He smiled sweetly at her, ”Could do you some good.”

[Potter]

Time: Evening
Location: Caseonia Streets > The Tough Tavern
Attire: Here - Updated
Hair: Here - Updated

Persephone had stored Buttercup in an abandoned farmhouse nearby and given him plenty of carrots and apples. She had changed into a new outfit and pulled her hair back into a messy bun with loose strands hanging out and framing her face. She felt more at ease with this outfit and could move freely. How anyone stomached wearing that fancy shit was beyond her. She was glad she didn’t need to wear it more often. She had stashed most of her food in her hiding spot, but kept some of the bread on her. There were people she needed to distribute it too and would enjoy it more than these entitled nobles.

The conversation she’d eavesdropped on and had with Calbert though had her on edge. She hadn’t expected to get tangled up in this venomous web. Persephone sighed and shook her head as she headed towards the alleyways. With her hood up, the only thing visible were pieces of her hair and her bright green eyes. Armed with her bow and quiver of arrows, along with knives, bottle of perfume, small handgun, and her bag, she felt confident she could take care of herself. Still, seeing Count Calbert coming after her and hosting himself into the tree, made her stomach churn. Why was he so insistent on Lorenzo and Charlotte staying home? Why was he obsessed with them? It didn’t make any sense. Didn’t he have a family to worry about? Weirdo. It wasn’t her business though, and she didn’t quite care to investigate it.

Persephone stopped short upon seeing a body in a nearby alleyway and frowned. There was an ax in her face and she was sprawled out in a puddle of blood. Who had been murdered now? Glancing around, she didn’t see anyone, but it didn’t mean they weren’t hiding. She crept closer and jumped back with horror. It was Violet Damien! She turned and ran with wide eyes and slipped a bit from the puddle of blood she’d stepped in. A piece of bread had slipped out and fell near the body. In her haste and fear, she didn't notice. Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit!

She ran down an adjacent alleyway and furiously began to scuff her boots to get rid of the blood. Horrified, she turned and ran into the tavern. She ran to the back of the tavern and up the steps to the second floor. ”Seph, you’re back! Do you-“ Marceline, the bartender started to yell, but frowned as she raced upstairs. The sound of a door slamming followed. She shrugged it off and continued to attend to her patrons, not wanting anyone to know something was wrong.

Once upstairs, Persephone took the shoes off and grabbed a towel. She began to scrub at them furiously as tears streamed down her face. Her heart hammered unlike anything she’d felt before. She glanced around with terror and shoved the boots in a bag and threw it in the back of the closet. Then, she slid down the wall and buried her head in her hands and trembled with fear.

[princess]

Time: Evening
Location: The Tough Tavern
Interactions: @JJ Doe Fritz/Ryn @Potter Persephone
Music:Violin
Attire: Click here

---

The laughter continued to uproar through the tavern. The violinist had attempted to pick back up his tune yet now struggled to be heard over the noise. Charlotte had walked over to Maxwell's side, trying to ignore the stares she received during her journey. She offered her hand to the drunkard, "Let me help you." Choosing to first speak with the most wasted fellow in the bar was perhaps not the best detective work, but she had felt sorry for him.

The bearded, disheveled man immediately took her hand with delight as she helped him up. Then he stumbled and almost fell over again. Another round of chuckling filled the air. Charlotte quickly put her hands on his shoulders to stabilize him.

She looked over her shoulder to glare at the nearby patrons. ”Seriously, gentlemen?” Charlotte did not know if she had managed to motivate herself or if she was so drained at this point that she simply could not bother to have a filter. "I didn't realize children were permitted entry into taverns now."

A collective “ooooo” filled the room that answered her question.

They were much too inebriated to think of anything to come back with, so they instead laughed like imbeciles. Charlotte watched one man laugh so hard that he had to lay down on the floor and clutch his stomach. She raised a brow and let her gaze move back to Maxwell. He was simply just staring at her with a goofy smile.

"Okay, honey, let's just..." Charlotte gently pushed his shoulders to help seat him on his stool and waved over the bartender.

A girl with short red hair and a face littered with freckles made her way over and leaned on the wooden bar, looking Charlotte up and down with a curious smile. She wore dark lipstick that did little to hide her youth. Finally, a brief giggle escaped her lips as she coolly introduced herself. "Marcy's the name, and serving you is my game."

"Pleased to meet you, Marcy." She took a moment to curtsy to her, perhaps out of habit. The red-head got on her tippy toes to watch her movement, rubbing her eyes in disbelief. "Could you please bring a glass of water over?"

Marceline nodded, biting her lip. She picked up a nearby pitcher of water and then turned around to face the wall. "What the hell was that?" She mumbled to herself. Noble girls were something else; everything Persephone had told her over the years was spot-on. She set the glass of water in front of them.

That was when the dark-haired girl before her began helping the drunkard. Marceline's brows lifted as Charlotte picked up the glass and brought it to his lips. Charlotte gently placed her free hand against the back of Maxwell's head. Then, she proceeded to aid the man drink a few sips of water.

Why bother? Marcy thought. Nobles rarely came in here, and certainly not Lady Charlotte Vikena with her hair tied back in a pretty ribbon as she was always portrayed. The nobles she had the misfortune of interacting with had seemed to look down on the impoverished. It was as if they were rats that scuttered out of the sewers. Even the impoverished looked down on Maxwell Adams. The man sat at the bar every night, giving every woman that passed him a creepy smile. After losing his family years ago, the man had not been right in the head and could be a real wildcard.

Maxwell soon laid his head on the table. "Do you feel sick?" He nodded, and Charlotte looked back at Marceline. "Can you put some cold water on a cloth and give it to me, please? If you have any crackers, that will help too." The bartender stared at her with tension, not happy about being given demands. However, she moved to get Charlotte what she requested, handing her the cloth and tossing a few crackers onto the bar. Delicately, Charlotte put it on his forehead and pushed the crackers closer to him. She rubbed the man's back as he raised his head slightly. Then, he took a cracker with a trembling hand and nibbled on it.

Why is she so nice? She should know not to trust strangers.

"You seem like you know what you're doing." Marceline commented finally.

Charlotte replied without looking her way, "I suppose… I've been taking care of drunk people my whole life so." Marceline wondered if she had picked up on her tension with her.

There was an awkward silence before Charlotte did meet her eyes again. "Have you seen a man with short dark brown hair with scars on his face? He has a mustache, and he’s maybe…" Charlotte got on her tippy toes and held her hand above her head. She squinted as she tried to decide how much taller Lorenzo, "...two inches taller than me? "

Marceline first shrugged before replying, "Honestly, I don't think I've seen a Duke here… People would talk…" She sighed as she used a towel to dry a glass, " Is there the possibility that he was in here and I didn't notice? …Absolutely. He sounds like he looks like every other bastard in here already."

Charlotte sat down and leaned her head back to stare at the ceiling.

I just want to go to sleep.

A large hand fell on her shoulder, causing her to readjust her head position. Maxwell was sitting up more now, holding the cloth to his forehead. "From far away…" Charlotte and Marcy both looked at him as he had finally spoken up. "You reminded me of my late wife... It made me smile. I thought maybe… God was letting me see her again. My eyes are not as good as they used to be… " A tear slid down his cheek despite his smile, "But now up close, you look like my daughter Winnie… Maybe not in appearance but in here." He patted his own chest where his heart was. "Thank you for reuniting me with my girls."

Charlotte's expression broke along with her heart. Oh poor thing. She bit her lip. She knew very well that nothing could be said in this situation.

"I hope you can be reunited too… with the mustache man with the scars."

She managed a smile and took Maxwell's hand in hers to squeeze it. However, the moment was brief as a stray thought crossed her mind suddenly. Charlotte lowly asked as her attention returned to the young girl, “Marcy… How did you know I was looking for a Duke?"

Somehow, Marceline managed to pale. “ Uhhh…”

“Marcy… Please.”

Marcy huffed and folded her arms as she leaned in, whispering, "You know that big lady over there with the bandana? This is her bar. She came over before and told me who you were… I know you only live with the Duke, so kinda figured." Charlotte could tell there was more to this story, so she raised a brow. She could see the guilt written all over Marcy's face. “Okay okay… So she also told me that we kindaaa aren't supposed to let you and that guy over there leave."

”What?”

" Didn't you see? You were right there when she shut the window. There was somebody out there, and he said something to her."

Charlotte tried to replay the memory in her mind, but it became difficult to focus. A blonde woman had suddenly come running into the tavern. She frowned, seeing the distress on her face as she practically charged toward the stairs.

"Seph, you're back! Do you-"

A door slam filled the bar's silence as the violinist had halted his song once again. He looked pretty frustrated. Charlotte froze as her gaze locked on the steps. The music started again. She slowly stood up off her stool and moved to look closer at the wooden boards on the floor. The marks of red footprints were ever so faint but still visible.

Charlotte did not have to kneel down to know she was looking at blood. Clenching her fists, she glanced at Fritz. He was currently engaged in a drinking contest of some sort.

The girl's distressed face as she had moved passed her replayed in her mind. It was unlikely there was a connection, but her mind was already made up. “Count Fritz! I'll be right back!" Charlotte called to him suddenly. Hastily, she ascended the stairs and slowly opened the door. She moved into the room, purposely not being too quiet to startle the girl. The blonde in dark clothing was curled up against the wall with her head buried.

Charlotte took a moment to glance around. They were in a storage room seemingly. She hesitantly moved forward, "Um, hi…" She chewed her lip as she considered her options. Then, finally, she was at her side. Charlotte leaned against the wall and slid down it until she was seated beside her. She pulled her knees against herself.

“I’ve… I’ve had a pretty bad night too.”

[Conscripts]

_{Locations: Ballroom -> Sorian Library -> Near the Alleyway}

---

An old friend

After parting ways with Nahir, John once again blended back into the crowd, finding for himself a corner of solitude. The dance was actually pretty good for the most part until that incident with the servant happened. Layla was quite right, he did do a lot better when he just went with the flow and let himself go loose. He did consider the prospect of becoming a dancer for five seconds until he realized that his work was going to be the investigation of the Cataris Galnus outbreak...in the indigenous population of Gall off the western coast...Yes, off the coast. He wouldn't be attending any balls or parties anytime soon after this season.

'So many things to worry about.' That's the nature of being an actual working citizen now, and quite an important one at that. But he couldn't help but sometimes thought of a simpler life, one that he once had but was taken away a little too soon. That would be the one thing that he did envy the nobles for, one of the few things.

Speaking of them, he felt a nudge on his coat by someone from behind. He turned around to see a shoulder-length white-haired lady wearing a pleasant light yellow traditional styled Caesonian dress. But what caught his attention was her slightly roundish face, striking a particular chord in his memories.

"Meet me outside ok?" She whispered softly to him before heading past him...

---

He was sure that was her. It couldn't be anyone else.

John followed the lady outside, away from the ball that was going to wrap up, keeping a distance from her. She stopped after she was far enough from the ballroom, and turned around.

"John..." She said gently under her breathe, her eyes looking up at the doctor, her two hands cupped together in front of her chest. "Do you remember me?"

John stood silent for a few seconds before giving a slight smile. "Catherine..." He said. "It's been so long."

"I can't believe you are still alive..." She replied, her gold eyes getting teary. "Where have you been all these years?"

"It's a long story..." John looked away briefly, before approaching Catherine. "But I'm here now. I know it's been rough for you, but I have always wanted you to know this..." He consciously took a deep breath, and closed his eyes before locking them with her. For what might be considered forever, was in fact only a few seconds, he gathered all the courage he could for the confession.

"Callum was the one who stole your marbles."

Perplexed, Catherine pushed her head back with furrowed eyebrows and blurted out, "That's not true..." Before realizing her mistake there. All her act and uptightness crumbled in front of him as she rubbed her temple in disappointment.

"Come on, it only took five sentences." John gave Catherine a mischievous smirk.

"To be fair, you kind of cheated." She replied with a lighthearted chuckle. "You knew I was going to do this."

"True, just as I knew about your marble interests." Catherine shifted her hand to lay her forehead on it instead. John couldn't help but laugh for real. For a second there, he thought she was truly a changed gentlewoman, but at the end of the day, she was still the old Catherine. "Seriously now, how've you been doing?"

"We're doing ok all things considered." She replied, smiling and lifting her head. "How much do you know about me though, after that whole ordeal?"

"Umm, not at all really. I've pretty much lost contact with everyone."

"I see. Alrighty, care for a walk then?" She invited. "I'll catch you up."

---

"So Anson became the heir of Hopton after his brother died, right as he came of age?" John said. "Doesn't sound suspicious at all."

"Yeah right? Nobody would think the favored son would...I don't know..." She shrugged, not finishing her sentence, letting John fill in the blank. "Now here's the part where it becomes weird. I am assigned as an inspector to the region where he is governing."

"Oh you're inspector now?" John asked.

"I mean, had to follow the family business you know." Catherine shrugged again. "It's pretty fun though, watching people like him trying to weasel his way out of an obvious crime."

John shook his head with an amused smile. This woman enjoyed a bit too much of her expertise right there. Catherine had always been the craftiest of his friend groups, and perhaps one of the toughest opponents in any game that involved lying or secrecy. Perhaps it ran in the blood? But her father was not this much of a cutthroat bitch.

"But yeah, that's pretty much how things went in your absence." She concluded. "Now, how about you? I know what you'll ask: yes, I know you became a doctor in Kolonivka. That one's pretty easy once you follow the records."

"Hmm, sly..." John remarked. "Pretty good too. After the outbreak, I got into the Varian Science Institute and then a member of their royal physicians. It's been over a year now, a year and a half almost?"

"Well done." Catherine congratulated, patting John on the back. "How's the work?"

"If I'm going to be honest, around six out of ten are proud contributions to society. The other four are exercises in despair and self-loathing."

Catherine couldn't help but break out a laugh. "Got a problem patient?"

John sighed. "One of the four, yeah." He looked away for a second, "Mind if I..." He turned back and Catherine gestured with her head tilted slightly, her smile disappearing instantly. "It's not really her usual antics that's the problem. It's that she doesn't change at all. She comes in every month with the same exact preventable condition that she just refuses to correct. And I get it, her father just went poof, and now she's grieving. But it worries me greatly."

"Where's her family?" Catherine asked solemnly.

"...There? They don't seem to do anything about it. They just let her get away with it." The doctor lamented, his voice getting more and more exasperated. "In fact, I don't trust any of them to do anything about it, until something happens."

"Something?"

"Something."

Something...

"Anyway, sorry for bringing up such a topic on our first meeting in a long time." John said, after a brief moment of silence. His childhood friend though didn't seem to mind. "Work can be a little stressful."

"No worries. Mine as well. You can always go to me for an ear if need be." Catherine replied, as she looked around and realized they have walked quite far now. She looked up and before her was the Library of Sorian. "Anyway, it was nice to see you again finally. I have to go. I'll see you later!" She flashed him a wave before leaving.

"Later." And too did John

Dangerous Witness

The walk-and-talk with Catherine took John to the Sorian Library without his knowledge. The ball was probably over by that point, but he remembered that he didn't have to relink with the Physicians. He was kind of a special case considering his position in the Institute, so he didn't have to stick by the royals all the time. He still would need to be there if something big happened, but overall he had a lot more freedom than the rest. The night was still young, so he decided to go into the library now that he was there. John heard that 'Shattered Oaths', the sequel to the book 'The Princess and her Unorthodox Prince', is in one of these libraries. He didn't think that would wound up being his favorite book, but it kept him company for quite a time in his life.

To his delight, the book was indeed in there. Like any ecstatic little child, he spent a good portion of the remainder of the evening consuming the book. It was a lot better than he expected it to be. Usually, sequels weren't as good as the original work, but the characters, the portrayal, the dialogues and the chemistry were enticing enough to keep the doctor engaged for the entirety of the 137 pages. Probably a little too engaged, considering after he closed the book and stood up, he had to grapple his chair for a few seconds to stabilize himself.

"Ahh, this again?" He groaned, gripping onto the chair tighter, shutting his eyes tight for a moment. It got better soon, but this had been happening quite a bit recently since he had to work long hours. It probably was due to long intense focus, it shouldn't be too big of an issue long term.

'I should go for a walk.'

John returned the book to where he found the book before exiting the library. He went around, enjoying the speck of cold evening air on his face, brushing over his hair and letting out long exhales, recounting his memories if he had seen these sights before. It wasn't long until his daydream (or nightdream?) was interrupted when someone in dark clothes ran out of an alleyway and right past him, almost colliding into him if he hadn't stepped out of the way in time. The doctor was naturally curious as he looked in the direction she was running from. It was too dark to see, however, but he saw some footsteps that were edged into the cobblestone walkway. It didn't last very long, tracing back into the alleyway she went into.

John was getting suspicious. Why was there footsteps around to begin with? He walked over to the footstep that was left behind, crouched down and took out his handkerchief, wiping a bit of it and sniffed it. The metallic smell gave it away instantly.

He felt like that time at Kolonivka again. His muscles tensed up, his breath heavy, and a sense of impending doom, but calm enough to stand up, pull out his pocket watch and take a look around. He saw a few guards on patrols.

"Hey!"

Something was up in that alleyway...

[Terrance420]

Sir Alden Drake Plannington

Time:Evening
Location:Marek’s After Party
Interaction: @princess Anastasia @Helo Leo @samreaper Kazumin @Potter Ezra

---

Well, tonight might seem like an interesting night after all!

Alden observed the inside of the warehouse. Lights, mirrors with projections, and music that sounds… intense, otherworldly and confusing, much different than that one normally heard on occasion. Indeed this was the work of some sort of incantation of some kind, but he relished the very thought. Certainly he was glad he had gathered wind of this party back at the ballroom and had decided to arrive out of curiosity. Perhaps this was the very place he needed to be in order to feel refreshed and ready for settling back in. Afterall, he still needed to formally reintroduce himself to the king and queen, something he was not ready for nor was willing to do.

Maybe a drink would help ease his mind. Afterall, my last one was drunk by that crazy Duke at the ball. . Alden walked up to the bar, feeling a little bit excited, and called over the bartender.

“ Pardon me, ma’dam, I would like to have a cocktail if you may.”

Florence looked his way. “You’re going to need to pick one.” She gave him a smirk before she slid a menu toward him.

Alden reviewed the menu in front of him, a bit perplexed by these outrageous names. Though, he considered that he might as well go with it and try something out of the ordinary. He was feeling quite thirsty overall, and thought “Douse the Thirst” might have been a cocktail that would, indeed, quench his thirst. This did seem to be of the [i] magical [i] variant, and would do the job quite well.

“Yes, I would like to try this cocktail here, Douse the Thirst? Seems rather interesting to try, wouldn’t you think?”

Florence met his gaze and simply smiled. “A classic choice.” She went to work making the concoction. After a moment, she pushed him over a gold drink with red petals at the bottom. There was a black rose adorning the glass.

“Why thank you, my dear. Here, for your troubles, and for a hopefully wonderful and unforgettable night!” . Alden tipped her generously for making the drink and tipped his glass to her and took a few sips of the drink. He then searched around for a minute or so to see who was around the area.

Upon searching, he then heard a voice that somehow was louder than the music playing,

"Baker boy at the party! Whaaat!"

Is…. is that Princess Anastasia?

Alden had recalled her being at the ballroom earlier in the evening, but in a completely different attire than what she was wearing. It was strange, normally in the past he would scold her and tell her to act like a lady… but this time he felt a little blushed….

… What…?

Alden then looked down at his drink. Was this responsible for this rather unusual feeling? This inexplicable view he now had on the princess, whereas he never saw her in such a way? A thought suddenly hit him in the face. Douse…. Thirst….. Clever…. . He realized that it was not the normal thirst in which he had originally thought, but rather something in which made the drinker even thirstier, at least in a crude way.

Alden observed his surroundings one more time, and recalled how it was like an enchantment coming in. The music, the lights and decorations that dressed the place. It was certainly otherworldly, no doubt about it, almost as if this were… a dream?

Yes, that certainly had to be it. The events of the evening would more or less go unnoticed, as if there was no recollection of it unless there was pure documentation. Given the effects on how magic generally works in this regard, this was likely to be untrue as well.

Not what I had expected, but works for me nonetheless…

This night was simply turning out better than he had originally hoped. With a deep breath and a wry yet calming smile, Alden took his drink and headed toward Anastasia and the group that she was with.

“Why, what a pleasant surprise! Fancy meeting you here, Princess! And a pleasure meeting you gentleman as well. A pleasure to make your acquaintance” Alden had said, tipping his glass to the group while taking a few more sips.

[mantou]

The Prince & The Watchdog

_{MENTIONS: Anastasia Danrose @princess, Ezra Turner @Potter, & Auguste Danrose @Inertia}

---

While it was surely the bodyguard’s priority to keep the Danroses safe, these circumstances proved to be more difficult for him to apply his skills. As the situation soon escalated to become more of what looked like an issue to solve between the royal family, it was clear to Wystan that the function that came with his station was not required. A fact like this was quite easy to recognize, especially to someone who swore a vow never to cross the line– only to come when he was called. As such, the watchdog would of course know his place and adjust accordingly.

Wystan resigned himself to very seriously keeping an eye out for the crowds that began to surround them. Whether it was out of curiosity, malicious intent, or simply an attraction to Callum’s shenanigans, the watchdog paid attention to all sorts of mindsets and possibilities as he went on his way to shield the Danroses from being viewed like exhibits on display. His fairly considerable height and regularly-trained build were enough to deter many onlookers, causing them to cease their focus and pay their heed elsewhere. As for the more eager observers, he employed the classic raise-of-a-hand to signal his warning to keep their distance, interrupting many sheep in the process before causing them to disperse as well.

After the visitors were effectively turned away from the Danroses, Wystan would keep his attention at the ready, never allowing that sigh of relief to escape him just yet. Such a decision would prove useful even after Callum and Anastasia descend from the table, as he effortlessly spots the princess attempting to sneak away.

With Prince Wulfric, Auguste, and Callum reasonably occupied, the bodyguard quickly stepped out of the crowd to gently catch hold of the princess’ arm. After shifting himself closer to her side to manage a more comfortable grip for her sake, he fixed the princess with a stern gaze. Even still, the characteristic biting frost that accompanied his eyes could not disguise the unmistakable concern that they exuded.

“Your Royal Highness, this evening’s banquet is about to come to an end. May I ask where you are in a hurry to?”

Anastasia had stiffened, not expecting to have her arm caught. Her gaze moved over to his slowly and she smiled innocently as she said, ” Just the guest house. Wanted to check on Thea. I don’t see her here so I think she may have left early.”

“...Alright.” Wystan loosened his grip. There was assurance to be had in the fact that the guest house was not too far from the ballroom, and that he could make it there rather quickly if he took shortcuts. However, most of the insurance laid in the fact that he would be back on her trail in less than an hour. That was enough to let her go for now. “Be safe when you wade through the crowd, and take the front exit of the ballroom so that I can see you from here.”

“I will! … You stay safe too, kay?” Anastasia told him genuinely with a smile.

“As you wish, Your Highness.” The bodyguard nodded promptly, returning her smile with a small yet restrained one of his own. Aside from Prince Auguste, not many others would wish for his own safety– if any at all. It was wholly unnecessary for someone of his unit, in the end. However, if the prince and the princess thought it necessary, then he would simply do his best to comply. His safety meant he could keep watch over theirs, after all. Without another word, he proceeded to diligently keep his eyes trained on her as she then turned on her heels and continued toward the front exit as he had requested.

Being left alone returned the frosted and steel-cut exterior the watchdog was underhandedly known for. Even still, he carried himself with respect and dignity, keeping his chin leveled but not high in clear respect of his company with the Danroses. A dog such as he knew his place, and thus he would not stand to tarnish the name that took him in with willing arms - a name that he carried close to his chest, both figuratively and literally. Over his robe’s breast pocket, the brass metal of the insignia granted to him by the second prince shone brilliantly under the dimness of the ballroom lights. Overlining was the embossment of a wolf’s profile facing forward, looking stern, focused, and unyielding. In the name of loyalty and in complete honor of the royal family, this badge he carried encompassed his undying devotion to the line of high nobles he never once ever dreamed of speaking of in the past.

Soon, with most of the crowd dispersed from the food tables. An opportunity was found to place himself beside his employer– the man who granted him a home, and a new life to call his own. After giving the prince some time to gather himself and settle pleasantries with the nobles around him, Wystan finally spoke.

“Good evening, Your Royal Highness.”

“Ah~ a pleasant evening to yourself too, Wystan.” Auguste smiled, “I take it you enjoyed your leave?”

“Yes, I have.” Wystan nodded. Such was normal for the prince to lead their conversations. As of now, though, the bodyguard hoped that the prince was simply using small talk to disguise the goal of their conversation in the event of any… unsavory auditors. A thorough move, indeed. Especially with him knowing that the bodyguard would never start up pointless idle chatter during public events unless completely necessary. “It was by a stroke of luck that I managed to be back in time for this event.” And in time to witness first-hand a few certain persons of interest.

“Well done attempting to coral my siblings, not a simplistic task.”

“I did not lead much of a hand in that, but I appreciate it, Your Highness.” Wystan glanced at the prince, and then at his siblings. It was true that Auguste did his best– with Callum especially. “In any case, it was much more simple driving away the flock of sheep that came with.”

Auguste scanned the ballroom as the guests filtered out of the building. When only a few stragglers remained and were out of earshot he exhaled wearily and turned towards his dark-haired ward. “You have that look about you, dear Wystan.” He said, “Anything of import that you’ve to report?”

“A few.” Wystan lowered his voice to a reasonable pitch as he finished off his own scan of the perimeter. For now, it was safe.

“Morning report, merchant’s district, southwest of downtown. I’ve found that news of the most recent unaccounted murders is connected to a drug-smuggling ring, which ultimately leads us to unlicensed doctors engaging in medical malpractice. I’ve gathered evidence of my progress– it will be at the ready should you or Prince Wulfric need to present it at the council.” The watchdog reported in practiced eloquence. “I have plans to return to examine the thieves’ cant left behind by my informants, and also to seek further information on financial transactions and motives if any. The latter objectives are orders recently given by the crown prince.”

“Job well done as always.” Auguste’s pitch matched Wystan’s own. “The council will be unable to shoot it down this time. It appears we’re getting close to an arrest. It will be a pleasure to personally arrest those involved.

The watchdog responded with a nod. “It would be a pleasure to personally tend to those who resist your arrest.” He issued another glance at the exits, corners, and balcony area before continuing his intel report.

“Afternoon report. Strange news from my informants about a misused warehouse.” He shifted his position on the off-chance there may have been a listener nearby. “Those who were willing to divulge information leaked that the repository was used for practices considered scandalous. Heinous, even.” He frowned, before looking directly at the prince. “Your brother instructed me to follow Anastasia after this event.”

“Ah, so this warehouse has a probable connection to this… invitation-based event?” Auguste looked as if in thought, “The individuals handing out the invitations hid their presence well, but I’m certain you and I were able to trace their presence.”

“Had Wulfric not instructed you so, I would have.” His eyes were serious and sharper than usual. “Be on your guard for this event, Wystan, something's not quite right.”

“Drag both Anastasia and Callum out of this event if necessary. I will deal with their complaints later on.” The prince continued, “You, as well, exercise caution.” He knew from years of experience that Wystan was not the type to have a lax guard, but better safe than sorry. “But there is also no need for you to lay down your life.”

“Very well, my prince. I plan to ride as soon as possible.” Wystan heard everything Auguste had to say except for the very last bit. Whether it was by instinct or stubborn selectiveness, the watchdog’s devotion simply knew no bounds. If anything during this event called for such an extreme last resort, then he would deliver without another word. In this second life, nothing was too much for him if it was for the Danroses.

“Now, my last report is fairly recent,” Wystan spoke in a quieter tone this time, seemingly casting a glance to his side to browse the tables of food and those surrounding it. He stepped closer to the prince to shield his words further.

“It’s about Ezra Turner – the baker you may have met prior to the fiasco.”

“Ezra Turner?” Auguste enquired, “Hmm, go on.”

“It is regarding Anastasia, my prince. During our introductions earlier, something about him didn’t seem quite right,” Wystan stated, his eyebrows furrowed as he recalled the baker’s strange demeanor towards the princess. “While it is not rare for the princess to receive expressions of admiration, this baker seemed entirely fixated on her during our first meeting. It was to the extent that it seemed my presence was either… unwanted or wholly ignored.”

“In cases like this, your instincts tend to be accurate.” Auguste replied, “Keep an eye on this Ezra Turner. His apparent obsession with Anastasia is a worry.”

Auguste paused for a moment, waiting for any more clarification but Wystan stayed mum. “Alright, if that is all, make your preparations.” He continued, “I’ll be expecting your report tomorrow unless it is an emergency… I’ll have to go and get prepared for my meeting with mother and brother.”

Wystan nodded, then looked Auguste straight in the eye. “If there should be any trouble here at the estate, Harper has been stationed at the back gates.” The watchdog placed a hand on the prince’s shoulder. “Please send for me. I will be ready.”

“Perhaps I shall give Harper a greeting, see if she is doing well, it has been awhile since I’ve spoken to her.” Auguste said. “Trust me Wystan, should something warrant your attention I will call for you. I’m more worried about this party. I’ll say this once more, exercise due caution.”

The bodyguard simply nods in response, choosing not to say that Harper would indeed appreciate the gesture, even more so coming from Auguste himself. “Very well, Your Royal Highness. Have a safe evening– my regards to your brother and the Queen.” Wystan stepped back to give the prince his final bow for the evening before executing a swift departure.

From this point on, it seemed time was of the essence.

[SilverPaw]

Wulfric, Auguste & Alibeth

_{Mentions: @FunnyGuy Lorenzo @13org Mayet @Helo Callum @Tae Saiya}

---

---

Chunky collab

It was late into the evening, though activity was not nonexistent. It certainly wasn’t unusual for select royal family members to meet for drinks. The setting was one of the smaller, more private tea rooms. It was done in warm colours; light cream walls, rustic gold curtains for the windows, brown damask armchairs, and a walnut table. Because early summer evenings still brought with them a chill, a small fireplace had been stoked for them. Due to this, it was warmer than Wulfric had anticipated, and he once again slipped off his cloak. Rather than call someone to have it taken away, however, he hung it on the engraved coat rack.

A serving cart was placed next to the table, laden with several pots of tea sitting on tea warmers, a selection of alcoholic drinks, and a variety of small snacks. A corner of his mouth twitched in displeasure when he noticed the portion of desserts, reminded as he was of that baker.

Nonetheless, he stepped to the cart, and – because the servants had been dismissed at this point to ensure their privacy – poured himself a drink. He mixed vodka, chamomile tea, and some honey, then took a seat.

“So,” the first prince turned to his conversation partners, “which topic of interest shall we cover first?” Raising a brow, he took a small sip of his toddy, enjoying its heat and flavour.

Auguste was found sitting across Wulfric, smiling around his teacup. Tea, dashed with a bit of ginger to give it that bit of zest. A soothing and calming drink to wind down from the ballroom dance. He changed into more casual attire, a loose tunic with black breeches and silk hose for leggings.

“Well,” Auguste replied, “Let us sift through the agenda… If I had to suggest, the Alidasht would be the most glaring… issue.”

“Glaring,” Wulfric smirked. “An apt descriptor for the Grand Vizier, who was most displeased at Lorenzo receiving such a light punishment.” Another sip. “Ah, but you hadn’t been there for it, hm?” he turned to Auguste curiously. “No matter, it can be summarized shortly - after we assess our guests in general,” he agreed to Auguste’s proposal to speak about the Alidasht.

“Firstly, the Sultan did restrain the Vizier from his aggression. Some tension there, perhaps?” He paused for another drink. “Though, if they’ve cooperated so far, perhaps we needn’t worry that the latter will kill the former. I’ve the impression that His Majesty Raif would be amenable to an alliance despite that fiasco with Vikena.”

“Unfortunate as it is, I did indeed miss the entrance of the Alidasht,” Auguste exhaled softly, “Worry not, I have received an account of the ‘incident’ from one of our most trusted servants.”

“From a second hand account, the Sultan may be more magnanimous than I previously thought. Especially given the other shehzade and shehzadi’s objections to the ‘punishment’.”

“Yes, that surprised me as well. His leniency suits our purposes, however.” Wulfric then sighed, because he couldn’t quite count Edin in that ‘our’ despite the king’s role being vital in forming an alliance. “Now if only father were fully motivated to take advantage, and press for a formal accord,” he grumbled. Looking at his mother, he asked, “I believe you can take care of things on that front?”

And because that question had been mostly rhetorical, he added, “I realize it might be a stretch to convince him to agree, given his tastes,” he scowled, referring to Edin’s ideas on who a fitting woman to marry was, “but if Mayet and I become better acquainted…if we were to eventually court with the intention of marriage…well, it would be the simplest way of forming a strong bond between our kingdoms.” He didn’t mention that he was personally intrigued by the shehzadi; his focus on her had likely been noted by the other two. “As long as our hypothetical relationship were to be successful, of course,” he smiled wryly. It was a far-off concern, but one of the several risks of his endeavors with Mayet he was aware of. He drained his cup halfway slowly. “Well, it is too early for me to pin my hopes solely on her,” he admitted.

Alibeth had been seated between her sons, her gaze lowered down at her tea as she stirred sugar into the honey-colored liquid. She did not pick up her head until her eldest had looked her way. Only then did she meet his gaze, listening to his words. When she was certain Wulfric had said all he had wanted to, she took a long sip of her tea. Then she set her cup on its plate, her gaze moving between her sons as she addressed them.

“The incident with the Alidasht’s arrival will become a reoccurring problem this season if the source is not handled.” Her tone was both soft and serious. Her stern eyes fell on Wulfric. “The Sultan wants Duke Vikena to accompany his family for dinner. Every supper they have together will be another opportunity for the Duke to pull our “bond” with their kingdom another step backward for every step we take forward.” She paused to make sure they both were following, but divulged further nonetheless, “For example, if I humor you and have the Sultan agree to a formal accord, he can very wear tear it in a fit of anger… If you make intention to marry his daughter Mayet, he can then call off the engagement.”

Alibeth then concluded, “I believe we need a way to either deter the Sultan from this arrangement or we need a way to control the Duke at these dinners, otherwise any further efforts will be for naught.”

Auguste nodded in acknowledgement. As much as he wanted to believe in the goodness of others, it was a real possibility that the Alidasht royalty were attempting to undermine and destabilize their kingdom. He sighed internally before speaking.

“Regarding the dinner, mother… I made a pre-emptive decision to accompany the Vikenas during their dinners.” Auguste took a sip of tea, “I should be able to keep some semblance of control and keep our nobility safe.”

“My only worry is that father will not agree with this… given his predisposition towards the Vikenas.”

Alibeth gave Auguste an approving smile, “I can always count on you to think ahead… Though I feel reassured that the dinner will not reach the extremes this ball has with you there…” She paused to sigh. “I worry that Duke Vikena can be a difficult creature to contain. Duchess Emina would try and try to no avail, and now her daughter has stepped into those impossible shoes.”

Wulfric inclined his head in agreement. Wherever Duke Vikena was involved, an incident was certain to follow. “A poor selection of choices. Given the Sultan made his decision after a very involved discussion involving multiple parties, questioning him now would come across as thankless at best. Though if it were to be done…” he tapped his fingers against the armchair thoughtfully. “Aside from yourself, Mina Blackwood’s appeal to him was intriguing, wouldn’t you say? Though I doubt you’d need anyone’s advice if you were to commit to convincing him.” He looked at the queen to assess her reaction.

Alibeth’s brows raised with intrigue. She was perplexed by this. Mina had been ready to help Charlotte sell her soul to the Alidasht. Had that been what her son had meant? Though one would have expected her to reprimand him for the less empathetic option, she felt more at ease than anything. Ruling a country was a notion idealized by many and truly understood by few. There had already been a multitude of instances that she had to be willing to make the lives of a few worse in the pursuit of protecting the rest of her kingdom At this point in her life, sympathy was a limited resource she could only afford to spare for her children.

“As for controlling Lorenzo…Did not Count Damien attempt to rehabilitate him? And look how well that went,” he scoffed. He paused to imbibe more vodka-infused tea.

“Still, if you go to those dinners,” he turned to Auguste, “that will greatly alleviate the problem. You should also be able to glean further insight into our esteemed guests.” He raised his cup in a teasing salute to his brother. Then he drained its contents, leaned back into his seat, and crossed one leg over the other. “As for father, you can always decide to beg for forgiveness rather than ask his permission,” he uttered dryly.

Auguste smiled and raised his cup in return, “Anything for our family, brother.” He rested his arm on the chair, “I hope my presence serves to alleviate the pressure off the Vikenas.”

“You may be right regarding father…” He let out a sigh, “It appears that I may peeve off father once more.”

“I must have maddened him today as well,” his lips twisted in offense as he considered the likely petty reasons behind his father’s aggravation. “I’m sure he has grievances to take out on me, no?” at this, he looked at Alibeth. “Which shall it be? Is he in the mood for calling upon me as he would a recalcitrant child, or should I show some initiative, and come groveling like a dog seeking its master’s mercy? Would he prefer excuses or appeasement?” he laughed as he shook his head, but it was not a happy sound.

“I do not know how you can stand it, mother.” He stared at her intently, expression fierce, fingers digging into the upholstery of the armrest. Then he looked away, some of the angry tension leaching from him in a forceful exhale. “Or how Calbert can, for that matter. I wish I had the nonchalance to put on that kind of act,” he sneered. “The very idea of praising that man so freely…” he trailed off, grimacing. Just being forced to act as subservient as he had to to such a vile king sickened him. His pride certainly prevented him from being as perfectly manipulating as the Count was. “Oh, but it serves his purposes well, doesn’t it,” he whispered darkly, staring off into space.

Alibeth had said nothing as she let him speak what he needed to. Wulfric had been her easiest child to understand. She was certain the weight he carried was crushing at times. Oh my poor Wulfric. This is only but a fraction of what you feel, isn’t it?

Auguste unconsciously clenched his arm at the mention of Count Calbert. He was certain his brother and mother knew of his grievances towards the man. It was everything but pleasant.

Just as suddenly, Wulfric shook off his strange mood. He released the hold he’d had on his seat, and put on a pleasant smile. “You’ll warn me against impatience again, won’t you?” his tone was fond as he glanced at Alibeth. He did love his mother, after all, even though he doubted she had much tolerance for his darker impulses.

Alibeth had wanted to take up her son’s hand and squeeze it, perhaps kiss the palm as she had done when he was just a babe. But she did not. Instead, she met his eyes with her cold amber ones. “I stand it by keeping control of my emotions as opposed to letting them control me.” Her tone was at first cold and her body stiff, but she did relent some of the tension as she added more gently, “But that will come with time. You are still young, Wulfric. There is no need to harbor such anger. Change your perspective. You’re both…” She looked at Auguste to include him, “You’re both very well old enough to know this is a game. All of it.”

“I know that much,” Wulfric interjected calmly. He did, but when faced with an obstacle in the form of someone as worthless as Edin, he couldn’t help but feel enraged sometimes.

“An odd and dangerous game indeed.” Auguste said, attempting to lighten up the situation. Although his tone was jovial, his expression betrayed his intention. Where the life or death of your dearest family and closest friends hangs in the balance. Perhaps Callum has the right idea regarding royal politics.

“We are all able to control what the actions of others mean to us... Count Damien has changed his perspective on everyone around him. We are but chess pieces to him and to many others out there playing the game the way he does..” She had been possibly one of the few that had seen through Calbert in a heartbeat. How could she not when it was like looking in a mirror? She knew Calbert could see the same of her, no matter how many times the two pretended as if they fooled the other. “You can call him wicked for it yet you’ll see he tends to come out victorious in the end. If you see your father as the one in control, so he shall be. If you see him for what he is, an imbecile with the luck to be born into royalty, so all he shall be as well.” She waved her hand dismissively, wanting to move on, “Nonetheless, I shall speak to your father and bear the weight of tonight’s occurrences. You need not worry about him. It is fine.”

“It is not fine. You should not still be covering for me so much - you will not always be able to,” he stressed.

She had rolled her eyes, “Wulfric. Yes. One day I will be dead. But as long as I am alive, allow me to be your mother in the few ways I still can be.” The last thing she wanted was Edin laying a hand on him tonight, not in the state he was in.

Wulfric leaned towards Alibeth, clearly to convey something of importance. “You may consider it radical, but there is another, simpler way of dealing with imbeciles undeserving of their power. Removing them,” he laid a palm on the table for emphasis, but after a short moment of staring at his mother, he pushed himself back into the armchair.

“Well. Simple in principle, if not in execution,” he admitted with a touch of humour lining his words.

A dry laugh escaped Alibeth’s lips before she leaned in to say softly to her son, “Oh my darling Wulfric… There is a reason your father and I sleep in separate rooms. Given the chance to smother him with my pillow, I do not know if I could resist.” Wulfric gave her a look of surprised appreciation. She then said with more seriousness, “...Your father may be an imbecile, but he is intelligent in ways I do not enjoy admitting. The night after we had wed he let me know he had a fallback plan if I were to ever kill him, that he’d make sure everything I’ve worked for would be ripped away… Assassination is a tricky game, not as simple as poisoning his tea and pointing at a concubine to blame.” She leaned away and looked to Auguste, curious for his input as he was the kinder of the two of them.

Auguste could infer Wulfric’s intent, being one of the closest of the family to him. A dangerous proposition with the consequences unknown. Especially with a snake such as Count Calbert, and many others like him, slithering in the court. Patricide was something that did not sit well with him, even if their father was wholly and utterly incompetent, the boy still held some small love for their father. Removal of the position of power and senseless killing were different lines. Still, he would keep his thoughts to himself for now and commandeer logic.

“A process not to be rushed, dear brother.” Auguste finally chimed in. “We have many… many enemies in the court eyeing the crown. Corruption runs rampant within our kingdom, as attested by myself and Wystan. It will be a slow process to root out the rot-filled roots strangling our country, to which I am happy to serve…”

“Apologies, the point seems to have escaped me.” A small smile clambered onto his cheeks, “What I am saying is it’s best we establish our foundation, as any big… ‘events’ may cause it all to come crumbling down.”
Hopefully in that time he is able to talk down Wulfric from capital punishment.

“You’ll notice, historically, whenever a King is dethroned in any form, others see it as an opportunity. Certainly with those of the other Kingdoms just a few paces away, it might not be in our best interest just yet.” Alibeth added to Auguste’s point.

“Indeed, the complexities of planning an assassination and dealing with the fallout is why I have not yet taken serious steps in that direction,” Wulfric acknowledged. “Perhaps we should ask the Alidasht royals for pointers sometime,” he joked caustically.

“The lady I danced with- Lady Saiya, she proved able to keep up with me in the ballroom.” Auguste replied, “It is very likely they are very strong and dangerous fighters. I was able to glean such from movement alone.”

“Very well.” Alibeth exhaled. ”So! Auguste, you will attend the dinners and attempt to control Duke Vikena. I will make certain aid is nearby if you so need it if the Alidasht are as you say. If this proves unsuccessful, we will need to revisit this problem and discuss… different options…”

Alibeth turned to fully face her eldest once more, “Wulfric, I think pursuing this relationship with Mayet will only prove helpful. Continue your efforts.” Her son nodded in easy acceptance. She reached over and began to pour the vodka in her empty tea cup, “Now then…We are going to converse over Callum and Anastasia.” The liquid continued to pour into the cup for perhaps too long.

She was silent a moment as she studied their reactions to the choice of topic. “I know they are taxing on you two. Their behavior was ridiculous tonight and always is.. However… I believe they are perhaps acting out.” Alibeth explained with a mix of exasperation and concern. “I… I need you two to look out for them better. I’ve had difficulty reaching them, especially since they disappear to who knows where in the night.” She frowned as she admitted with an exhausted sigh, taking a sip of her vodka, ”Sometimes I’m not certain what night is going to be the one they do not return home.”

When Alibeth was done with the vodka, Wulfric motioned for her to hand over the bottle to him. He poured a measure in his now empty cup as well. In consideration of the amount of alcohol he’d imbibed today, he took less than his mother had. However, he knocked back the whole shot in one go. Exhaling sharply, he offered the drink to Auguste as well, sharing a look of exasperation with him.

After that exchange, he finally said, “I do not have the time to be constantly looking over their shoulders,” his voice was cold, but there was a furrow of concern between his brows. “So aside from assigning them more guards and servants…” he sighed. “Have you considered sending them away?” he asked his mother.

Alibeth simply gave Wulfric a look for that one, raising her brow ever so slightly.

“Callum fancies himself a scholar, so if we let him do as he pleases…Maybe he would even gain some of that wisdom he claims to value.” He crossed his arms over his chest, so as to prevent himself from getting another shot of vodka. “As for Anastasia…perhaps a short reprieve in the countryside? Some distance may do us all good.” He turned to stare out a nearby window. He was clearly unhappy with the suggestions he’d made, but he honestly felt at his wits’ end regarding his younger siblings.

Auguste sighed and took the bottle, spiking some of his tea with the vodka. “I will take responsibility for our siblings, Wulfric.” He, too, downed what was left of the unholy concoction. This was an issue he would put his foot down for.

“I can’t bear either being kidnapped again...” His voice was low. Perhaps the vodka was revealing much too much of his internal thoughts. “... Ahem. Logically speaking, keeping our siblings close is safer. A bargaining chip as valuable as royalty is one we must not risk.”

“Especially given Anastasia’s recent kidnapping…” Auguste clenched his fist unconsciously before relaxing. “It’s not certain that the entity that kidnapped her was wiped out in its totality. They could very well still be lurking amidst our countrymen.”

“I’m certain both will be able to find their own purpose- be it to serve our family or find their own calling. It is best we keep Callum away from politics given his rebellious and uncooperative nature and some freedom… Although it’s unlikely that father would permit such leniency.”

At the unusual show of genuine, negative emotion from Auguste, Wulfric was drawn to observing him. “Very well. Do as you best can, and I shall assist you when I am able. I am not convinced it will have any effect, as they have been this way for several years…But it is not as if I wish to give up on them, either.” He briefly tilted his head back to rest on the seat, closed his eyes, and breathed out a long, tired sigh. Trying and failing to get through Callum and Anastasia had that effect on him. Then he glanced at Alibeth, to see what she had to say on this matter.

“Auguste. Only bite as much as you can chew…” Alibeth first reminded him. Her thoughts moved to Callum, who had perhaps gotten away with being the youngest for too long. However, she had seen him try tonight, no matter what others had thought of him. As much as King Edin was often angry with Callum, she felt the opposite about him. No matter what he did, she was biased towards defending him and trying to protect him from her husband. “Callum… Callum was doing well up until the table fiasco. He was behaved and a kind gentleman to those he interacted with. He will mature. I believe Callum simply needs to settle down with a woman who can rearrange his priorities and ground him.“

“I will heed your advice, mother.”

Then Alibeth turned to Wulfric. She agreed with him on many fronts and appreciated his ability to look beyond emotion toward the harder choices, but this was one of the times his opinion struck a chord in her. She narrowed her eyes as she said with thinly veiled intensity, “As much as you want to ship your siblings elsewhere… Frankly I don’t quite care.. As we established earlier, one day I’ll be too busy rotting in the ground to help you. All you four will have is each other then. I never have understood much about Anastasia, but I do know at the end of the day, she’d die for you, Wulfric.” She shook her head with a sigh, leaning on her knees as she fell silent.

When addressed so sternly, Wulfric sat up attentively, hands in his lap as he matched her admonishment with somber focus. At her words, his brows slowly rose, but in the end, he smoothed out his expression, and offered a short nod. Though he had conjured up several counters to her statements, he remained silent. His brand of pragmatism would only cause further tension, and he neither needed nor wanted an unnecessary conflict with his mother.

“ …When she was only seven years old, I found her in the kitchen with a cloth tied to a stick. She…” Alibeth hesitated as if the memory was painting itself in front of her eyes, “...seemed to be rummaging about for some food to carry with her. I asked her if she was trying to run away and she had ever so calmly told me she was going to find her home. Of course, I then told her she was already home. But she had simply smiled and said she didn’t belong here. Then she walked out of the kitchen as if I wasn’t there. As if I wasn’t even her mother.” Alibeth wasn’t sure why she was telling them this story. She drank another sip of her vodka from her teacup. “I have tried since then to find her place here. Music lessons, whatever she wanted, I made sure she had… But she still runs away. I have always been able to understand you boys… But her…”
Alibeth’s gaze fell and she stared down at her cup. Genuine sadness and guilt filled her tone. “ I wish I could say I did… I don’t know if she’d come back if I sent her away. ”

At his mother’s story, Wulfric blinked in surprise. “I see…I hadn’t realized…” he frowned at the table, deep in thought. “I always thought she was simply bored,” he said, more so to himself rather than to anyone else. Then, he looked back to his mother, though she was still facing away. “I don’t know why she feels that way…But if she genuinely believes that she doesn’t belong here, and never could, then I don’t see how we could change that.” He turned to Auguste, who might have a better idea as to how to resolve this problem. Alibeth’s expression loosened as if she had also given up on the girl.

Auguste raised an eyebrow at Wulfric. “A complex issue, our cute Anastasia.” He paused for a moment, in thought. “... She clings onto me the most and then her brothers because she does not feel like she belongs.” He sunk into his seat and let out another sigh. He felt sympathy for his mother and her story, but he would have to say his next few words, if not for him, but for Anastasia. “Mother… you, and especially father, have barely given her time of day. Father barely acknowledges her existence. No matter how much she tried to get either of your attention, she cannot.”

“The remedy could not be any more simpler,” Auguste's eyes shifted to Wulfric. “Make her home feel like home again. If we strived to such a standard, I’m certain she will be able to find herself.”

Alibeth raised her gaze to Auguste, digesting his words. Attention? She was a grown woman. What more could she give her? The queen’s lips parted as if to defend herself. It was true that she had the least chemistry with Anastasia of all her children, but had she avoided her?

The familiar pang of guilt she felt when her daughter came to mind answered that question. No matter how much she wanted to love her daughter as she had her sons, their relationship had always been strained. “Well. I suppose I can make an effort then.” She said after a while. Subsequently, her gaze fell on Wulfric as well.

Wulfric was still pondering Auguste’s words when there was a lull in the conversation. He glanced up, and was met with two pairs of hopeful, expectation filled gazes. “Yes,” he affirmed, but the word was drawn out. Inwardly, he was both doubtful and confused. How did one ‘make home feel like home’? How to find commonality where none existed?

Thinking back on it, though, he might have neglected Anastasia. For one, he had plenty of other duties and tasks he tended to prioritize. For another, Anastasia was such a socialite, it had not occurred to him that she could be, what, lonely? However, it had become apparent during the course of this conversation that he lacked understanding of his sister, and that was certainly something he could rectify. After a pause, Wulfric visibly collected himself. “Very well. I will make time for her,” he concluded firmly.

The trio spent some time in companionable silence. Then, Wulfric spoke again. “There is one other thing we have yet to address. Today’s matchups for the first dance; specifically, Auguste’s and mine. Someone intervened with the pre-arrangements that are usually made on our behalf,” he spoke matter-of-factly. “Only Callum was spared. And he was matched with one Violet Damien,” he noted pointedly. From this fact alone, it was natural to suspect Calbert’s involvement. He smiled grimly, and quirked an eyebrow at the other two, silently seeking to confirm if they’d arrived at the same conclusion.

“Ah.” Alibeth uttered curtly. Her head slightly nodded of its own accord and she took a long drink. She inhaled as if to prepare herself before meeting his eyes. “Calbert’s design.” She confessed to him as she folded her hands on her lap.

“Count Damien and your father had a discussion. Your father, despite what ended up occurring, was most engrossed in keeping you boys from dancing with women not worthy of your time. Calbert on the other hand, is obviously interested in marrying his daughters into royalty.” She elaborated neutrally. “The two of them then united to have specific servants go up to Calbert’s daughter Violet with only your numbers in the bowl, so she was guaranteed a dance with a prince. Of course, Calbert did not tell King Edin the full plan. I believe once his daughter was secured Callum, the other servants then were instructed to tamper with who you two were paired with. I suspect he preferred one of you rather than Callum, since there would be less princes in the way of his daughter becoming the next queen.” Her head leaned back as she drank the last of her vodka.

“Convoluted indeed.” Amusement was finding its way into her tone at this point. ”It was planned in advance, most certainly. His second daughter was left out of the plan.” She smirked at them as she continued, “Calbert not using one of his chess pieces? I think not. Crystal’s presence wasn’t expected. It was all really simple to understand from my position. …Alas, your father is slow on the uptake.”

“And here I thought he had an agenda against us in particular.” Wulfric found the situation as humorous as his mother did. “Did you know he warned Mayet against me? he scoffed derisively. “Wystan informed me. He did not do it personally, of course, but who else would have had it done…He really must have hated it when she told him to shut up,” he smirked. “Unfortunately for him, that woman wouldn’t be deterred by such a thing.” He drummed his fingers against the armrest, thoughts lingering on the shehzadi briefly. His focus wasn’t long elsewhere, however.

“Still…Things have gone exceptionally well for him. Since father is currently displeased with us, the count will be his uncontested favourite for a short while. Within that time frame, he can make a push for us to seriously consider Violet…And unexpected or not, Crystal approached Callum of her own volition, which he’ll surely make use of. The extent of his influence is quite vexing.” Though his voice had held venom, his expression had been on the razor thin edge between a smile and snarl. After his last remark, laughter rumbled within his chest, deep and dark.

Wulfric. You are too much like me too young.

Wulfric cut his expression of mirth short, however, and sighed. “If anything makes this game worthwhile, it’s opponents like him,” he whispered.

After a short moment, he looked up at the other two again. “By the by, shall we root out his spies from amongst our servants?” Once again, he was the picture of dignified professionalism.

Alibeth nodded finally, her chin now in her palm as she leaned on the table, “I tolerate Calbert, but I do not want his pets in this castle… Though it could take extreme measures that might weaken the constitution of our real servants.”

“It was indeed odd to find out Wulfric and I were not matched with the usual princesses.” Auguste chimed in, “Especially after the speech he gave me and Callum when we entered.” His mother and brother both had that look about them. A look of amusement. He could not enjoy their mirth, instead worry pounded the back of his head. There were a select few that could pose a threat to the Danroses, and Calbert showed time and time again that he was one such adversary.

Auguste rested both of his elbows on the backrest of his chair and he exhaled. “But to have spies within our servants… Calbert devised a complex yet crafty plan..” He lifted his elbow and pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Rooting out a compromised servant?” Auguste said, “Have you any methods in mind, brother, mother? The simplest would be through imparting false information.” Wulfric nodded in agreement.

“Worst comes to worst, Wystan could be called upon. Although he has a lot on his plate.”

Alibeth’s eyes lit up at Auguste’s idea. “That’s much better than getting all the servants riled up over one or two spies. I would like to talk to perhaps Wystan about implementing this plan… Do hope he is quite alright right now.” Concern crossed her face for a moment then her gaze slowly slid to Auguste once again, “Auguste… Did you meet anyone you are considering to court? If not, I would like to move along that process. Ideally, before your father decides to simply arrange your marriage. I do know he mentioned he wants an open invitation for noble women to come line up to chat with you. Both of you. Tomorrow.”

“I will do as you say, mother.” Auguste looked at Alibeth, “I’m not currently pursuing anyone at the moment. Although I am open to the notion given my age. Anything for our family. ”

“A sequence of conversations? I do not mind,” he elegantly lifted then dropped his shoulder. Then he tilted his head at Auguste, mildly curios. “Auguste, as admirable as always. But I worry you do far too little for your own sake. Does it not get stifling?” In that regard, he understood Callum, though his youngest brother went about exerting his will in all the wrong ways.

“Stifling? It would be a lie to say it did not at times,” a smile crept up on his face again. “How did that one saying go… ‘The labour we delight in physics pain.’ If it’s for our family and the kingdom… Well, I am glad to bear this burden.”

”Ever the masochist...” Alibeth sighed, shaking her head. “As I said, I’d keep my eyes open for someone you can enjoy your time with. Both of you. The time for this to be a choice will be fleeting… Anyhow, where is Wystan? Did he report anything to you?”

“Ah yes I meant to broach the subject regarding Wystan’s reports,” Auguste said. “I will summarize them in short.”

While Auguste did so, Wulfric stood up. He stretched his spine with a crack and stepped to the drink cart. He contemplated the selection, then took a glass, and prepared himself some absinthe. When pouring water into it to dilute it, he spilled a small amount, but ignored that. New drink in hand, he retook his seat.

“The first report was regarding the merchant district. Wystan had found a connection between the unaccounted murders and a drug-smuggling ring. All of it point towards unlicensed doctors practicing medical malpractice.” Auguste inhaled for a moment, “He is still in the middle of investigating but I believe either me or Wulfric can present the evidence to the council.”

Alibeth’s brows raised. “Hm… That must be halted at once. I want nothing interfering with our trade district. I will be placing high priority on this.“ She commented sternly. Wulfric hummed in assent, having already decided to do the same.

“The second report was regarding a strange warehouse his informants had heard about. It was said that the warehouse is being used for illegal and heinous crimes.” Auguste paused, “I think there is also reason to believe that this warehouse was related to the man I spotted handing a letter over to a noble discreetly. Wystan is to follow Anastasia and Callum to this… ‘party’. for safety.”

Alibeth sighed. The warehouse was simply a place where degenerate youths could engage with substances and explore their sexualities in ways she did not wish to hear about. She grimaced at the thought of Anastasia and Callum going there, but she did not seem as concerned about it.

Auguste turned to Wulfric, “Finally, he has reason to believe that the baker- Ezra Turner,” He did not ascertain much from the baker due to limited exposure, but he believed his ward’s words. “-has an odd, almost trance-like fixation on Anastasia during their brief meeting earlier. To the point that his own presence was ignored or disregarded. I believe we have sufficient reason to keep tabs on this… Ezra.”

“Who? … Who the hell is Ezra?” Alibeth asked incredulously. She paused. A baker... A memory surfaced before her eyes of her two younger offspring on top of a table. The table next to them had been covered in pastries. “Ah. Well, Anastasia is a pretty girl… She has a way of gathering attention. I’ve caught her canoodling with servants often enough that I had to discard of a few… Are you sure this is worth noting, Auguste?”

“It is, mother,” Wulfric disagreed sharply. “That man…There is something off about him,” he assured. He took a gulp of the absinthe he’d mixed earlier. “He was about to lay those filthy hands of his on Anastasia,” he growled, scowling at the memory. “Moreover,” he trailed off, sliding a finger against the rim of his glass. “He was overly-friendly at first, then acted so shy,” he scoffed. “But who, when embarrassed, would ask a prince to act as a servant? No matter that it was Callum. It doesn’t add up.” After another, slower sip, he concluded, “He should be watched.”

“I did not have much of an opinion of Ezra since I was preoccupied with trying to convince both Callum and Anastasia off the table.” Auguste continued, “However, I did spot Wystan, Anastasia, and Ezra conversing with each other for a long period of time. His opinion of Ezra should not be dismissed.”

Alibeth slowly nodded. ”Uh huh…” She was glad to see the concern they both had for their sister despite not seeing the issue here. “As I said, she is no stranger to men’s hands on her. She seeks out this sort of thing. If you wish to have an eye on him, then so be it. I am not personally too worried… Anything else?”

Displeased at that assessment, Wulfric nonetheless redirected the conversation elsewhere. “What is it with Lorenzo and Calbert anyhow?” His irritation at Ezra naturally led him to consider another confounding subject. “Is it all for some cryptic plot, or…are those two involved?” The emphasis on that last word conveyed his meaning; ever since their embrace during this evening, he’d been wondering if there was some twisted romance or lust between those two.

“Lorenzo and Calbert… huh.” Those two were definitely odd. “Knowing Count Damien, he is controlling. The type to lose hair should their plan slightly veer off course. Perhaps something had occurred between the two, and it was disobedience on Duke Lorenzo’s part? I’m not certain, merely speculating the nature of their, admittedly twisted, relationship.”

“Oh yes. Star-crossed lovers.” Alibeth replied dryly, here chin still resting in her palm. A smirk pulled at the corners of her lips. She was thoughtful for a moment before straightening her body up to dance one hand on the table, wiggling her fingers while her other hand moved above that one, pulling at imaginary strings.

“Hmm.” Wulfric lazily tracked his mother’s gesture. As he’d thought, it was most likely the count was keeping a leash on the duke for a yet unknown purpose. “I suppose I could speak to Lorenzo sometime,” he offered, though did not feel particularly committed to the idea at the moment.

Auguste followed his mother's hands, interpreting her movements as a puppeteer and their puppets. The second prince could only sigh. He simply nodded at Wulfric's affirmation.

After a while of no one saying anything else, he shifted in his seat, ready to stand up. “If that was all?”

Alibeth made a gesture as if to show empty hands, then stood up nonetheless. She lingered for a moment to await Auguste’s confirmation.

“I have covered all the subjects I had in mind..” Auguste said, standing up and stretching lightly. “Have a pleasant night, mother, brother.” Saying their goodbyes, the trio departed.

With that, the tea room became empty and silent once again.

[samreaper]

Senor Chavez

Currently wearing: Caesonian traditional formal wear, black party mask

Hider

(Minus the gloves and cape)

Location: Afterparty Warehouse
Interactions:Anastasia @princess Ezra @Potter Mayet @13org Leo @Helo Aiden @Terrance420

---

A few moments prior

Chavez halted momentarily to give a small respectful bow to Mayet who had pulled up most recently." Not at all. Chavez must be away from the moment, but will be sure to find and speak with the lovely princesa that is if you are not too busy. Until then, enjoy your drink tigresa!" He happily stated while patting his chest twice before stepping away.

---

The masked blodne could not halt the usual Kazu grin from spreading at seeing the way Ani acted so delighted and silly, even taking instantly to the persona he was playing." You thought to best Chavez, Senorita Cupkaita but Chavez is not one to give up or accept loss." A look of determination with an amused smirk that did not match clearly giving away his teasing. He thought to say more but found himself suddenly being hugged by the princess which made his body stiffen slightly though gave no attempts to shrug off as he normally would, instead gave her a friendly pat on the back while his left hand was thankfully raised to avoid spilling the drink.

Hearing the excitable woman state that she loved him got his eyebrow lifting as he was beginning to see that she seemed especially giddy, more so than how she was during their dance. Her mood would change quickly upon pulling away revealing a tearful look of sadness followed by an apology that could tug at most people's heartstrings. He held up a hand signaling for her to stop." No no no. There is no need for tears, Senorita." A small wag of his finger as he said this." For Chavez only requires the dazzling smile of the gorgeous princesa and nothing more." Procurring a handkerchief from his pocket to offer to her." Dry your tears and grace us once more with the sweetness of Cupcakita!" Winking beneath the mask then took another sip of his second cocktail.

Good to see her mood lifting to attack the baker with puppy dog eyes pleading to let her share the cupcakes. An attack the man could not resist as he relented quickly." Chavez offer his thanks and will most assuredly find the treats impossibly delicious."

Just then, another individual unknown to him approached with a very upbeat manner to his step causing him to hold off going for a cupcake for the moment. The man seemed pleasant and looked to be vibing quite strongly with music." Hola, Senor Leo! Senor Chavez is delighted to meet a fellow party enthusiast though has not been to one such as this. Chavez intends to savor and partake what this grand fiesta has to offer." A light bow of the head with his right hand placed against his chest followed by another sip of the cocktail finishing it off.

He only just finished giving his greeting when, yet another person unknown person pulled up to which he would nod his head." Chavez returns the pleasures. Such a group the Senorita has gathered and one made to share treats together with to celebrate, no?"

Stepping over to the table where the box of delicacies rested where he placed the now empty glass besides it then waved his right hand to whisk the tantalizing scent for him to inhale." Ah, senor baker. You have made a most delectable spread here and Chavez see's that someone has snuck a taste." A low chuckle escaped his lips as he peered at the letter T which was slightly smeared made from a quick swipe of a finger.

A thing that that would normally be such a minor little annoyance to anyone, but for some unknown reason Chavez found his gaze focusing on it with an intensity that grew stronger by the second. And with it he felt a strange and almost foreign sensation beginning to bubble within him that swelled with each passing second. Stronger and stronger it grew until it was boiling through his veins like acid while his face turned redder and redder like a cooking teapot and his body began to shake with such fury that had no real sensible source or reasoning until....

" WHO!? ....WHO....did this?!" He spat out in a voice of pure rage as he spun to the nearby group while pointing at the smeared cupcake." Which one of you bastardos besmirched this cupcake?! Huh? Who dares to taint the treat Senor Baker worked so hard to offer for Senorita Cupkaita?!" Shouting accusingly with an angry huff from his nose as he glared at the two newcomers then whirled around glaring all around the party goers nearby." What sick bastardos has chosen to spit on Princesa's gift?! Is that what people at this fiesta enjoy doing?!" He growled swiping his hand harshly at any that made an attempt to get closer to him or the box.

" NO...No...nononono!" Wagging his finger in angry fashion as it burned ferociously within him as he spun on the spot and grabbed the box picking it up to be held above his head." Is this what you want, bastardos?!!" Angrily shouting the challenge then without warning swung his arms throwing the box of cupcakes leaving them smushed and scattered at his feet.

" There! Is this what you want, huh?! Now they are all ruined. Chavez finished the job for the monstroso and now no one gets to enjoy them!" Pointing aggressively at the ruined treats; shouting his declaration while looking around as if expecting to see someone thrilled at the sight of the smashed desserts, nostrils flaring from repeated angry huffs." They are unfit for any of you...only fit to be fed to ants now. You see this?! This gift is now just food for ants! And now this place will be infested with ant, you see this? This is how you get ants and everyone knows once they get in they are difficult to be rid of!!" His voice and anger grew louder with each mention of the word ant; not only that but he found that he could not stop the words from spilling out as if he lost all control of his mouth on top of this unending fury.

His eyebrow began twitching, breath huffing rapidly as his hands and head shook with rage." Ants.....Ants...ANTS........AAAAAAAAAAAAANTS!" Each time spoken grew in ferocity and volume until he was leaning back waving his fist screaming his hate of ants to the heavens or in this instance the warehouse ceilings.

Once he was done letting everyone know of his feelings about ants he allowed his arms slump down do his sides with his head somewhat hanging. Standing there panting; face a furious red and slick with sweat and for an instant might have seemed like his anger was quelled and beginning to wane. That is until he saw the smashed cupcakes on the floor and felt his body with furious anger anew, but this time aimed at himself. A rage that kept coming from nowhere and jumping from one trivial annoyance to the next.

Chavez suddenly began clutching at his head and slightly tugging at his hair as he gazed at the cupcakes he so cruelly smashed." Ay dios?! What has Chavez done?! Agh...to destroy the Senorita's scrumptious gift! You are the bastardos, Chavez!" Without warning his right fist shot up to delivering a punch to his own face causing his head to jerk to the left leaving a darker red mark on his already bright red cheek immediately with another this time causing a small string of blood to fly from his mouth." Chavez will make Chavez pay for this disrespect and insolence!" He scowled out to himself and carried on with punching and slapping himself.

Eventually moving his left arm up in an attempt to choke himself and in doing finally noticed that people were staring at him with aghast and confused expression. He stopped to look around panting then leaned forward." I'm kicking my ass! DO YOU MIND?!" The blonde shouted furiously at the onlooking crowd before his left hand grabbed at the hem of his own collar and tugged hard to have his body pulled against the table." Damn you Chavez! You estupido!" From there he slammed his forehead against the table and would repeatedly do so while shouting estupido in between each slam.

[princess]

Time:Evening
Location: Marek's Afterparty
Interactions: @Potter Ezra @samreaper Kazumin @Helo Leo/Callum @Terrance420 Alden
Attire:An Outfit that would make her mother faint

---

Anastasia's face lit up at Kazumin's kind words, "Senorita Cupcakita is so happy! I will provide a dazzling smile as much as you require!" She took the handkerchief and dried her eye immediately upon being asked to.

An arm slithered around her shoulder and Anastasia immediately petted the arm without knowing who they were yet. Her eyes lit up as she recognized the speaker. "Leo!" She exclaimed with joy. As he let go of her and she could get a glimpse of her dear curly-haired friend, she started to bop her head, copying him. With way too much passion, she declared to Leo, "I LOVE this music too and I love you! You're so nice and you have wonderful curly hair...I think we should have a dance party."

Good news was soon delivered from Baker Boy: Kazumin could have a cupcake. She was happy to share with all these people she loved so much. Anastasia listened as Ezra brought up Thea. She really wished Thea had come! "Thea's sad! I love Thea with all my heart." Anastasia interjected. She met Leo's gaze, "She asked me to make sure you stay safe tonight." Then she reached up to pat Leo's head. "Very safe. Very curly. She confirmed.

Ezra spoke to her next and he seemed to want her to try his cupcakes. I love Ezra right now. I have to eat the cupcake he made me and make him happy. She suddenly moved away from her spot by Leo to pick up a cupcake as if she had been enchanted to obey. She took a moment to eat it. Then she glanced up at Ezra, "Oh you're right! It is doing me good!"She swallowed the last bite and smiled at him.

That was when she noticed a black-haired man approaching. Her brows raised with surprise as she recognized him, "No way! Shut up! Alden Plannington!?" Anastasia was flabbergasted but could not help but laugh.. This was the last person on Eromora she ever expected to show up here. In fact, she'd be less surprised to see Wulfric here. This man hadn't been around in years. She went running up to him and threw her arms around him. "I'm glad you're not dead! Wow! " She let go to stare at him, her expression still one of shock. "And you look AMAZING!" She gave him a wink before craning her head to look for Callum. Once she found his gaze she got on her tippy toes and started pointing at Alden with pointer fingers from both hands. "CALLUM! ADORABLE LITTLE BROTHER THAT I LOVE! LOOK WHO IT IS! It's fucking Alden Plannington!" She yelled across the room to him.

" WHO!? ....WHO....did this?!"

Anastasia glanced over at Kazumin slowly with confusion. She blinked as chaos unfolded before her, resulting in her cupcakes smashed. She frowned at first and picked up her Noble's Venom protectively. "My precious cupcakes..." Then she realized that she cared about Kazumin more than cupcakes and needed to support him in his endeavors. "YEAH! GO SENOR CHAVEZ! GET THOSE CAKES!"She cheered him on as he rampaged.

However, things soon got stranger as he ended up choking himself, hitting himself then slamming his forehead on the table. She called to him with distress, "Senor Chavez! It's okay! We love you. Don't hurt yourself anymore please!"

Anastasia glanced over at Alden, Ezra and Leo, "Don't worry, I love you guys too. Like A LOT."