[IC] 🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

[Rodiak]

_{dress ♖}

_{E D W A R D S E S T A T E | M O R N I N G
I n t e r a c t i o n s :
Fritz @JJ Doe
M e n t i o n s :}

Zarai’s pulse quickened the moment Fritz’s hand brushed her shoulder. It was such a light touch—barely there—but it was enough to make her entire body tense. She wished, desperately, for the ground beneath her to open up and swallow her whole. How could he see through her so easily? It was unbearable.

Her instinct was to pull away, to retreat into herself as Fritz guided her toward a soft patch of grass, his grip firm but never forceful. She followed, feeling the knot in her stomach tighten as they sat down. She hesitated when he motioned to her shoes before finally pulling them off. A brief sigh of relief passed her lips as her mangled feet were freed.

“I may have lied about being enough competition,” Zarai replied as a blush that crept up her neck and bloomed on her cheeks. Fritz’s hands moved to her feet, his touch warm and sure, and she nearly flinched again. She wasn’t used to this kind of tenderness.

The way he looked at her—understanding, almost too understanding—tugged at something deep inside her, something she didn’t want to face. Shame. Why did she feel ashamed? Why did his gentle care make her want to shrink away instead of lean into it?

She listened in silence as he spoke, his hands working methodically over her aching feet. Occasionally, she’d wince, a quiet gasp escaping her when he found a particularly tender spot. It was a relief, sure, but it didn’t erase the discomfort gnawing at her insides.

“I think he’ll be angry for a long time,” Zarai offered in response to Fritz’s words about Peter, her voice steadier than she felt. One hand gripped the fabric of her skirts, the other pulled at blades of grass one by one, a distraction from the raw ache in her feet and the weight of Fritz’s attention. “Have you told him that you’re worried? Maybe he needs it—the anger. Sometimes it’s the only thing that makes you feel in control.” She understood that feeling all too well.

When Fritz said he wanted to help, she couldn’t bring herself to look at him. The sincerity in his voice was too much. Instead, she withdrew her feet from his lap, tucking her knees up to her chest and wrapping her arms around them, her gaze locked on his hands. Her fingers traced idle circles over her knee, the words she wanted to say lodging themselves in her throat.

“I know you want to help,” she finally managed, though her voice had grown softer. She opened her mouth to say more, but the words wouldn’t come. What could she tell him? That she didn’t know what she wanted anymore? That the more time passed, the more she feared the answer? Her lips moved, but no sound came out. So, she closed her mouth again.

“I’ll tell you,” she said after a long pause, her eyes fixed on the ground in front of her. “I just... need time. I thought I knew, but…” Her voice trailed off as a lump formed in her throat. What if he hated her for it? What if he saw her for what she really was? A mess. A disappointment. Not so different from her mother after all. “I need more time to figure it out. To see if it’s really what I want and not just something I’m chasing because I’m angry. So please don't demand an answer from me now. I don't want to disappoint you."

[Helo]

Lord Leo Smithwood

---

Dirty Imbecile

Time: Late Afternoon to Evening
Location: Sorian Gambling and Games Hall
Daily Misfortune: Leo keeps getting drunk without any alcohol

Leo swayed in place as the dealer turned over another card. Blurred vision left the card unreadable but the dealer’s face told him he’d lost this hand.

“A seven, a king, and now a five,” Martin quietly told Leo the layout of the cards.

Leo counted on his fingers, nearly dropping a glass of sparkling water that contained a few lime wedges and not a drop of alcohol. He struggled with the equivalent of a child’s math problem. He could barely stand, could smell the alcohol wafting from his breath, like some common drunkard. He’d devoured plates from the establishment’s buffet until the sight of food made him queasy. Nothing helped this inebriating curse that had been laid upon him.

And it grew worse by the hour.

“Twenty-one!” He insisted as the dealer shook his head and pulled Leo’s pile of chips away.

“Twenty-two,” Martin corrected. He led Leo away from the table counting out numbers on his fingers to prove it to the unconvinced lord.

“You’ve got…twooomany…fingers.” Leo mumbled, unable to keep track of the counting. A morning spent gambling had started off fun, an easy distraction from wondering how far his servant's betrayal might go, but as the hours stretched on it became a series of frustrating losses.

The roulette table had once been loyal, agreeing with his every bet, only to stab him in the back. The dice mocked him at every throw. The poker table was unnavigable in his stupor, even when the cards showed him favor his own face betrayed him. A small fortune, lost to the winds, scattered about the various games of chance and into the greedy hands of the most treacherous house.

Leo searched his pockets for more chips, convinced that he could yet again find himself in Lady Luck’s embrace if only he picked the right game.

“I believe you are out of chips, milord.”

“Nooo,” Leo whispered in shock. He pointed at a station, deciding they needed to get more.

“Might be best to cut your losses, head back for a bath and change clothes.” Martin advised.

Like a child, Leo shook his head. “One more.” He said slumping down onto a nearby stool.

Martin looked apprehensive about leaving the lord alone and half-conscious but eventually indulged the stubborn lord’s request. He left Leo a few paces away for only a moment.

“Isn’t that Smithwood’s son?” Amidst ambient conversation, the shouting of bets, the cheers of success, and the groans of defeat, Leo heard his family name spoken. He felt a brief sense of pride at being recognized.

“Smithwood, why’s that name familiar?” Pride became dread as Leo recognized the tone, and caught a glimpse of the eagerness in the first speaker's eyes to dredge up rancid gossip.

“The Varian Duchess that murdered her husband..” It started in his gut, a burning that rose to his neck and ears. He turned in the voice’s direction, muscles tensing at the allegation that his mother would ever, could ever-

Betray him like that. Leave her son to suffer through the not knowing. He could probably forgive a murder, but never a lie like that.

But he hasn’t been murdered, only missing. He assured himself, tried to take a breath. Don’t cause a scene.

“...shacked up with the Queen’s former lady-in-waiting…” Leo watched the haze from the two men’s cigars linger around them. Embers glowed brightly as the man’s voice paused to draw out the suspense in his slanderous tale.

She kept the machine running, took over the Dukedom without a hitch. No one ever mentions that. His mother wouldn’t want him starting fights in a casino. Bad for the family imagine. Smithwood’s are better than that. I am better than that. But he wasn’t. His thoughts devolved into knocking teeth down throats.

“And whose daughter flubbed her engagement to a prince…” The noise around him dulled. All he saw was red. His legs moved independently closing the distance between him and the man speaking. Rage ran through his veins, hot and eager to take action.

“My guess, that Prince found out he was engaged to a -” The man didn’t get to finish that sentence.

In a smooth motion, Leo spun the speaker around, and fist collided with face. He grabbed a handful of graying hair and drove the man’s face into a table. The man spat a mouthful of blood as Leo’s knuckles smacked against ribs. Leo stumbled backward, head rattling as the other man struck back. A few more blows were landed before the pair crashed against the table, breaking it. They grappled until someone grabbed Leo’s arms and pulled him away. The other man took advantage, throwing one last punch before he too was grabbed up off the floor and restrained by his friend. More guards arrived to keep them separated.

“See that, the violent son of murder!” The other man shouted to those around him.

“I’ll break your fucking jaw!” Leo snarled.

“I want him arrested!” The other man shouted.

“Le'me go.” Leo tried in vain to break himself free. Catching only snippets of Martin’s words as he held him back, tried to reason with an unreachable Leo.

And with only a handful of gambling chips, Leo had no means to pay for the damages he’d caused nor the fine for disturbance. Painful hours of boredom stretched on, trapped in a cell filled with drunkards as Martin departed to find Leo’s mother to pay the fine for her son.

Time where all he could do was stew on the mess he’d made of his day. Embarrassing his family. Disappointing them. Looking like an absolute…

Asshat.

And that stupid fucking word was left haunting him.

[princess]

Time: Evening
Date:Sola 25th

Interaction: @Helo @Tae @ReusableSword @Rodiak @JJ Doe @Conscripts @Infinite Cosmos @Potter @Tpartywithzombi @samreaper @Silverpaw @Inertia @Potter @FunnyGuy @SausagePat @Lava Alckon @CitrusArms @PapaOso @Apex Sunburn

Good evening! It's now 7pm!

Regarding any unfinished business for day time, please be clear that you are writing in for the day still, or mark it as a flashback.

NEWSPAPER FOR SOLA 25

Map of Sorian

[princess]

Courting Season Camping Event

With the full backing of the royal castle, this prestigious camping experience promises an unforgettable night of romance and adventure in Pinebrook, a quaint, woodsy town just a 30-minute carriage ride from Sorian.

Castle-Supported Luxury:
Thanks to the generous support of the castle for this year's courting season, this event will be an exquisite blend of nature’s charm and royal luxury. Noble guests will enjoy all the splendors of the outdoors with an elevated touch, as the castle has ensured every detail is carefully curated for a flawless experience. The royal funding has transformed Pinebrook's campgrounds into a dreamy destination featuring elegant tents, and beautifully designed communal areas, where nature meets high society most charmingly. Those of lesser status are welcomed as well! The cabins and many amenities will also be available all season!

Lavish Amenities:
Noble attendees will enjoy accommodations with luxurious bedding and decor, all covered by the royal purse. The castle has provided refined glamping setups with soft linens and comfortable furnishings, ensuring that everyone, no matter their sleeping arrangement, feels pampered.

Noble Tent

Standard Tent

Romantic Activities & Castle-Endorsed Events:
This isn’t just any camping trip—this is an event hosted under the endorsement of the crown. The entire evening has been thoughtfully planned to enhance the courting season and allow potential suitors and partners to bond through a series of light-hearted and romantic activities. The event will include:

Couples Cooking Competition:
Funded by the royal kitchen itself, all ingredients are sourced from the finest local farms and suppliers. Compete while chained to your partner against other teams, creating a meal over the campfire.

Scenic Canoe Rides:
Paddle along a serene lake under the moonlight. The canoes, painted in royal colors, are provided by the castle.

Lake

Lantern Release:
Watch as dozens of lanterns float into the night sky. The royal family has generously provided lanterns for each couple to release, symbolizing their new beginnings.

Lanterns

Dance Under the Stars:
Dance to the sounds of a live string quartet, hired by the crown, on a charming wooden stage set under the stars.

Cozy Fire-Side Moments:
Sit by the campfire with your partner and roast gourmet marshmallows, sausages, and potatoes. Pinebrook's campgrounds, transformed into a magical glamping retreat, are designed to keep couples warm and cozy as they enjoy the romantic night.

Elegant Outdoor Dining:
Savor an exquisite meal under the stars, featuring roasted sausages, fire-baked potatoes, grilled vegetables, and more. The royal chefs have ensured every dish meets the standards of the nobility, and each course is designed for couples to share.

A Swimming Hole:
Go for a swim in a beautiful creek

Swimming Hole

Food Available at the Feast Table

🧀 Assorted Cheese & Fruit Platter
A selection of rich cheeses like brie, aged cheddar, and camembert, paired with seasonal fruits, nuts, and freshly baked breads.

🍄 Stuffed Mushrooms
Tender mushrooms filled with a savory blend of herbs, breadcrumbs, and melted cheeses.

🐔 Sorian-Style Roast Chicken
Juicy chicken marinated in herbs and spices, slow-roasted and served with a side of fire-roasted vegetables.

🍲 Wild Mushroom Stew
A hearty stew made from wild forest mushrooms, root vegetables, and simmered in a rich broth, served with warm crusty bread.

🥩 Grilled Ribeye Steaks
Tender cuts of ribeye, grilled to order, with a red wine reduction and rosemary-infused butter.

🍓 Fresh Berry Tart
A delicate pastry crust filled with vanilla cream, topped with a variety of fresh, seasonal berries.

🍮 Lavender Crème Brûlée
A floral twist on the classic dessert with a crisp caramelized sugar topping and a creamy lavender-infused custard.

🍎 Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies
Warm, flaky hand pies filled with spiced apple and cinnamon, served with a dollop of whipped cream.

🍷 Assorted Fine Wines
Handpicked selections from the royal cellar, including Sorian red, white, and sparkling wines.

🥃 Campfire Whiskey
A smooth, smoky blend perfect for sipping by the fire.

🍋 Herbal Lemonade
A refreshing blend of lemon, mint, and honey.

☕ Gourmet Coffee & Hot Chocolate
Freshly brewed coffee and velvety hot chocolate, served with a choice of cream, marshmallows, and cinnamon.

Fire-Roasting Stations

🍫 S'mores Table:
The s’mores station is a sweet delight, featuring an inviting display of graham crackers, marshmallows, and various gourmet chocolate bars. The table is adorned with glass jars filled with different flavors of marshmallows—classic vanilla, caramel swirl, and peppermint. Wooden skewers are neatly stacked for roasting, and there’s even a selection of artisanal toppings like crushed hazelnuts and drizzled caramel for the ultimate s'mores experience. The scent of toasted marshmallows fills the air as guests roast their treats over small, elegant fire pits scattered nearby.

🌭 Sausages Table:
The sausages roasting station is laid out like a feast for carnivores, featuring a range of mouth-watering sausages including bratwurst, spicy chorizo, and garlic-herb varieties. Displayed on wooden platters, the sausages come with small side dishes of mustard, ketchup, relish, and onions, with rustic bread rolls on the side. Skewers of various sizes sit ready for guests to pick their sausage of choice and roast it over open flames. Small pots of melting cheese and dipping sauces are available for those who want to add an extra touch to their roasted sausage.

🌽 Corn Table:
The corn roasting table is a rustic setup with golden ears of corn stacked in bushel baskets. Each ear is wrapped in its husk, ready for guests to grill to perfection over the fire. Nearby, small pots of herb-infused butter, spices, and salts are available for brushing onto the corn after roasting. Wooden benches are placed around the fire pits where guests can sit and enjoy the crackling sound of roasting corn while the scent of butter and fresh herbs wafts through the air.

🥔 Potatoes Table:
The potato station is a cozy stop, featuring large baskets of fire-ready potatoes wrapped in foil. Guests can grab a potato, place it directly in the glowing embers, and let it roast until perfectly tender. Afterward, they can unwrap their potato and head to the toppings bar, which is fully stocked with sour cream, chives, crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, and butter. The setup is simple yet satisfying, with the warmth of the fire pit making this a comforting station to linger by.

Link to Pinebrook, the town this campsite is in, below:

Pinebrook

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Optional Partner Assignments Upon Entry

Upon arrival at the Courting Season Camping Event, each guest can opt to be paired with a partner, chosen by one of our esteemed staff members. Should you wish to switch partners at any point during the event, simply make a request to any member of the staff, and they will happily accommodate your preferences. Below are the initial pairings:

Sir Matthias Larson and Bey Rohit Amar
Captain Stratya Durmand and Mr. Kazumin Nagasa
Lady Ariella Edwards and Prince Callum Danrose
Dr. John Williamson and Ms. Kira Mapenzi
Lord Roman Ravenwood and Ms. Riona

---

[Lava Alckon]

Drake

Attire: Black/Green Coat, Black Dress Pants, and Black Shoes
Time: Morning of the 25th
Location: Edwards Estate
Mentions: Callum @helo, Lorenzo @FunnyGuy, Cassius @PapaOso, Charlotte @princess, and a very special guest.

---

Drake bowed his head solemnly. ”I’m sorry, I did not know…” He signals for a toast with the Prince before continuing ”We can’t always be perfect in life. We can only be our best. Terrible friendships in the past may yet be redeemed in the eyes of those who wish it to be so.” Drake clacked his drink against Callum’s, and swished it back before lightly clanking it on the bar. ”Don’t think on the phrasing too much - what I more or less mean is don’t damn yourself for an eternity over the finite time you’ve spent with them. What matters is you recognize the bad and wish to do good - that’s all we can ever really ask of ourselves.”

Then came the talk of his sister. There was some overlap in his words versus how he would describe her - he often found her to be a joy in his life. He cared about her, so naturally he wanted to make sure whoever she would potentially be with felt the same. “Not in the slightest. Just being a concerned older brother. Plus I know nothing I said or did would stop her from going after what she wants. All I can do is make sure she’s safe.” He waved for their drinks to be topped off. “I’m sure you’ll come to see that in the weeks to come. Given how vested her interest is in you.”

“For what it’s worth. I don’t buy into all that social slack people seem to love to give you. I’ll let you words and actions speak for yourself - rather than the words of others.” It was shortly after this that Lorenzo had made the grand spectacle of presenting his own gifts. Drake had half a mind to tell him he didn’t have to present them so boisterously - but then he smiled. What harm could there be in letting him have his fun? Famous last words.

The first gift was plenty fine - Drake actually unboxed the revolver right there, took a look at the firing pin under his thumb, and nodded approvingly. “Cassius, my fellow. You know how to pick them. This looks to be…a model 1873? Very trusty work. I commend the smiths who forged the metals.” He carefully placed the weapon back in its box and turned to Lorenzo for the next one.

And when he described its contents, the young lord’s face maintained its smile with mild skepticism. But once there was mention of a “love potion” and “rubbers”, Drake fought back the immediate urge to frown. “My what a….creative gift good sir. Did you have to include those last two though? Seems a bit, well, private to mention such a sacred act in front of a gathering.” Nonetheless he took the box and stacked it on the other.

Then came the final box. Drake’s immediate response was to swoon at the adorable beady eyes. ”Awww what precious critters they are! And twins, you say? Do they have names?” He carefully handled the furry noodles and let them get accustomed to his presence before carefully placing them back into their container. ”I suppose this year I am raising my own furry family of felines and weasels. Very exciting!”

He sat the boxes down and with a resounding clap, he looked to the guests around, some inebriated and some already making their leave. Drake saw Wulfric take his leave and was a bit disappointed he couldn’t have a moment with his friend - but after all the embarrassment he weathered today, it might be best to let that die down before Wulfric had the chance to line up a light-hearted taunt or jest at his expense.

“Esteemed guests! Lords and Ladies! Dukes and Duchesses! I thank you humbly for your patience and presence on this fine day!” Drake begins his speech as he begins walking to the stage once more. “At this hour, I will say it is officially time to wrap up the party and proceed to the final course. Should you need any other food or drink, I kindly ask you to request our help for fresh options and partake to your heart's content. You all have been wonderful patrons tonight - and I do hope that you all enjoy the day. It may be my day of birth, but it is still young and ripe with opportunity! Seize the day and make it your own!” He gave one last bow - without falling - and made his way off the stage.

From here he continued to converse with the nearby Callum, Cassius, Lorenzo, and Charlotte until they took their leave. He made sure each guest received a complimentary goodie bag* upon leaving, as well as a proper farewell from the birthday boy himself. Once the party was cleared out, and the help seemed on their way to cleaning up, he made arrangements for his study to be partially converted into a bestiary for his new family members.

“Sebastian, my good man. Fetch me a bottle of our finest red please. And two glasses.” Drake asked his trusty manservant. The young man ran off and fetched a 10-year vintage and two fancy glasses for the lord, who nodded appreciatively before sending him away. He picked up the glasses and placed them on his bedside table, sitting on the edge of his bed and sighing as he poured the two glasses full of red wine.

“If only you could have been here. That would’ve been the best birthday gift of all..” He reached for the glass and began to sip as he heard a knock at the door. He continued sipping while approaching the door. ”Comiiing.” He said in a slightly dreary tone before taking another quick sip.

As he opened the door however, he felt himself nearly choke on his drink. For right in front of him was a woman clad in a beautiful green gown, her long blonde hair tied up in just the perfect blend of careful attention and mild messiness. Her two distinctly colored eyes that reminded Drake of the earth and sky all in one beautiful woman. His mouth opened slightly, his jaw hanging as she began to blush. The woman fidgeted slightly, her hands and arms behind her back as she looked up at Drake through her lashes and shyly spoke. ”A-am I too late?”

*Goodie bags contain various generic goods. Some herbal oils, greeting cards, small chocolates, as well as any particular trinket or item your specific character may be interested in receiving. PM me for details.

[PapaOso]

The Arrival at Pinebrook's Campsite

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the first shades of twilight, carriages began to roll into the heart of Pinebrook. The comforting clatter of hooves against the earth and the soft murmurs of noble guests eager for the camping retreat filled the crisp evening air. As the carriages arrived, the guests were greeted by the warm glow of lanterns scattered across the campsite.

Set amidst towering trees that seemed to stretch endlessly into the night sky, the campsite was a breathtaking sight to behold. A large, circular pavilion stood at the center, its warm lights casting a golden glow over the scene. The pavilion housed beautifully arranged tables, where guests would gather later to dine under the stars. Surrounding the pavilion were elegant tents, each one illuminated by soft lanterns that gave the area an almost magical feel. These tents were thoughtfully arranged in a semi-circle around a central fire pit, where logs and wooden chairs waited to invite guests for a cozy fireside evening.

In the center of the camp, the crackling fire pit provided warmth and a rustic charm, with comfortable chairs and benches circling the flames. The air smelled of burning wood and fresh pine, heightening the serene atmosphere of the forested retreat. Above them, a full moon hung in the sky, casting a silver glow through the branches, and the twinkling stars seemed to dance in the deep night.

The guests were welcomed by camp staff, each dressed in simple yet neat attire. Among them, one particular staff member stood out: a man with brown hair, who might seem vaguely familiar to those who had known Darryn Fletcher. His features were eerily similar—especially the scar running across his neck. Some might wonder if this could be a relative, or perhaps something more mysterious, as the resemblance was uncanny enough to draw whispers from those who recognized him.

As the campers stepped out of their carriages, their senses were immediately greeted by the blend of nature’s tranquil beauty and the subtle luxury curated by the royal family for this special event. The evening was just beginning, and already, the magic of Pinebrook’s Courting Season Camping Event was in full bloom.

Soon, two senior camp staffers hurriedly approached with bright, welcoming smiles. The first, a bubbly young woman with a mass of curly auburn hair, waved enthusiastically at the guests as they descended. Her green eyes sparkled with excitement, and she adjusted her forest-green tunic before calling out, “Welcome to Pinebrook, everyone! We are so excited to have you here!” Her cheerful voice carried easily across the campsite.

Beside her, a tall, gangly young man with tousled blonde hair and round spectacles tried his best to look official while nervously clutching a clipboard. He offered a bashful grin, his cheeks flushed as he spoke up, “Yes, yes! We’ll be getting started just as soon as everyone’s gathered. In the meantime, feel free to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of Pinebrook.” He gestured awkwardly around him, clearly not as accustomed to the role as his counterpart.

The woman beamed and clapped her hands together. “Once everyone gathers 'round, we’ll start handing out your tent assignments! And,” she added with a playful wink, “you’ll be assigned your partner for the evening. So stay close! It’s going to be an unforgettable night!” The two exchanged a quick look of shared excitement before guiding the guests towards the pavilion with friendly gestures.