FunnyGuy

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Red Duke Redemption

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Guest House
Interaction: @princess Hafiz, Raif, Charlotte, @Lava Alckon Farim, @Potter Layla, @13org Mayet, @Rodiak Nahir, @infinite cosmos Munir, @Helo Leo, @Tpartywithzombi Ariella, @JJ Doe Riona, and @Inertia Auguste
Mention:

---

Alidasht Cuisine

Lorenzo kept his mouth shut as the food was being served. Not because he needed to stop talking, but because he was salivating with the anticipation of eating a meal that would make up for such a busy day. He hadn’t eaten breakfast, and lunch had been rushed. The duke was sure Gilbert felt under-used today and would make sure to ask him to prepare something once he returned home. He wouldn’t actually eat it, but he was sure Gilbert would just enjoy knowing his services remained needed and appreciated.

His tummy emanated a low growl, making him want to jump the table at the food but the duke would never do something so foolish.

“What peculiar, yet delicious looking food. Disc-shaped bread, chicken on giant toothpicks, and look at that whipped peanut butter!” Lorenzo was delighted by the sight, especially with the fact that no one had personally plated dishes. Wow, this is how they eat? Sharing a collection of food? Marvelous. Despite their rudeness, it's admirable that they keep with the same eating customs as their peasants. Lorenzo was itching to dig in but a glass of water and whispered words stole away his attention. A dark-haired servant woman with an olive complexion was quietly addressing him as he poured his glass.

“Is there a reason you cannot be as bold as this with Edin or Calbert, Your Grace?”

“They would not trample over you as much if they knew you could bite,”

Lorenzo was taken aback by the servant, his lips parting slightly as he looked up at her. How… How did she know?! How did she know I wanted water?! Lorenzo was a bit spooked but would at least give the psychic an answer to appease her.

“It's my second day in Sorian, dear. And my first courting season without my duchess.” Though he didn't speak as quietly as Riona, his words were vague enough to leave any keen ears guessing the topic of their exchange. The words could escape the servant herself if she didn't give them the appropriate amount of thought. To say it so simply was a bit scary to Lorenzo. It was only his second day in Sorian during a courting season without his late wife. It proved everything was and would not be the same as it was last year. That he was and would not be the same as last year.

Once all of the first course was set, Lorenzo grinned at everyone down the table. He could see everyone was eager to dig in but something had to be said first!

“Ahem! With everyone here and the food ready to be devoured, I think it is a good time as any to say grace over the food served this evening. I am not sure if the Alidasht practice something similar but it is an old Caesonian tradition of giving humble thanks for our meal. I can lead it if you'd like your highness.” Lorenzo gave Sultan Raif the most nod of confidence.

Avalia

Darius by@FunnyGuy and Dante by @Alivefalling

Time: Morning
Location: Gaurav Village
Interactions: Menzai @samreaper
Equipment: 2 shot glasses, 300 Amas total, Flowers from Phia, Dante’s cellphone, and Dante’s knife

---

Darius had been glaring at Dante until the moment Menzai cut the tension between the twins in an instant. He was on the verge of being defiant after what Dante pulled but respected Menzai’s order. Hopping off of the elevated earth, Darius approached Dante and took a place beside him, arms crossed.

And then it started. Menzai was verbally tearing into them in a way the two had never experienced before. His sheer disappointment was coupled with a stark tone, but as harsh as it was, Menzai was right. The twins couldn’t even dispute it. If not for the risk of angering Menzai further, they would have expressed it sooner. Instead, they quietly listened. For Dante, it brought him back to the days when he was a grunt in basic combat training getting grilled by some crusty old drill sergeant. While Darius could compare it to his long-retired-from-the-ring trainers that got sick of his bullshit every now and again. The two of them were a lot alike when it came to needing strident discipline. They were a couple of knuckleheads after all.

“Nah, you’re right.” Darius answered before taking a look at what he had done without even thinking. His arms dropped to his side as there was no defending his rash actions. “We were being stupid and fucking things up. Sorry,” He apologized with a bow of his head.

“I apologize as well, Menzai. We got out of hand. I will try to keep competition out of training.” Dante said finally speaking after he knew Menzai was done. He looked to his brother and placed a hand on his head “I really am sorry. I won’t pull anything like that again on you.” Dante had a hard time when Darius was upset and he had caused it this time which now tugged at his conscience.

“Um.” Darius side-stepped away from Dante to escape the hand on his head. “One. Don’t pull anything like that on me, either. What am I to you, your kid? Two. As long as the competition is healthy, I think it can actually help us improve. We just gotta listen to our trainer. Right, Mr. Menzai?” Darius took a moment to brush his head with his hand as if it could undo Dante’s gesture.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: North Pass
Interaction: Brigitte @Tae, Bardulf @Lava Alckon, Rue @Potter, Bowyn @Helo, and Zeva @Pink Khione
Mention: Drosis @Blizz, Malachi @princess, Menzai @samreaper, and Rowan @GingerBobOh
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring, Oak Wood Staff!, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 500 Amas.

---

Bardulf expressing his desire to steer clear of danger was simply met with Mister Luum’s smile. He almost found it humorous that the human believed he had a choice in the matter. Crossing his arms, Mister Luum listened in on the observations Briggite had to share. Initially, it was almost disappointing, but something bit!

“Solaris blesses us,” Mister Luum commented both in reaction to the news and as a reply to Bowyn speaking of leaving the damsel high and dry. The opportunity not only presented adequate Avalian-flavored danger but it even came with a damsel in distress.

“OWLBEAR INCOMING! HELP!!” Mister Luum’s eyebrows rose excitedly with the identification of the threat.

“Steel yourself, Bardulf! This is a worthy first opponent! An owlbear!” He shouted just before a young blonde elf broke through the thick treeline with a somersault. Mister Luum was quite impressed with her swiftness, though he raised an eyebrow when she moved to his side. I don’t know her… Does she know me? Wait. Does she know me? Mister Luum was distracted enough not to witness Rue push Bardulf out of the way. His focus was entirely on the new face amongst their group, even with the owlbear breaking through the treeline and heading right toward everyone.

"Get ready while you can, everyone.” Rue's voice broke Mister Luum from the distraction.

“Huh?” His gaze first fell on Rue and Starfire before looking at the 10x10-foot wall of ice blocking the owlbear. “Rue what are you doing? I understand being eager to show your stuff but this is young Bardulf’s fight.” The elf forced his smile as he motioned for her to step aside. He shot a glance at the slowly melting ice wall, rather surprised by its ability to keep the owlbear from getting to them. I guess I should at least… Mister Luum noticed his staff wasn’t in his hands. He also noticed it wasn’t slung on his back either. “Not again! Brigitte, have you seen my staff?” Mister Luum peered around as if he’d find it somewhere on the ground in the immediate area.

“Wait. Did you take it? Did you steal my sta-?” Mister Luum pointed an accusatory finger in the face of the elven woman but his transmission bracelet started vibrating. “Stay put. I have to answer this,” He said as he proceeded to walk away from the group in the opposite direction of the owlbear to take the call. The bracelet indicated the call was coming from Drosis, so he was pleasantly surprised when Mister Luum saw the others were also called on the same transmission. Captain Morr! Lochee! Mr. Menzai! Rowan!

Unfortunately, it was just business. Everyone hung up so quickly after Drosis’ update that Mister Luum didn’t even get the chance to catch up with them.

“Ay ay cap’n!” He exclaimed just as Drosis ended the transmission. Mister Luum smiled happily at being reminded he could call any of his buddies up for a chat. On the subject of buddies…

“Bardulf, have you killed that- Ohh... nevermind.”

Avalia

Darius by@FunnyGuy and Dante by @Alivefalling

Time: Morning
Location: Gaurav Village
Interactions: Menzai @samreaper
Equipment: 2 shot glasses, 300 Amas total, Flowers from Phia, Dante’s cellphone, and Dante’s knife

---

Darius was chuckling at Dante’s addon, not expecting but loving it at the same time. Both of them found the jest quite funny until a primal fear enveloped them entirely. The two stared blankly at Menzai as they felt the urge of fight-or-flight tug at their backs. That very feeling Menzai produced was so intense that it seemed to conjure a faint imagining of a large snarling wolf. And though faint, it felt very real as the twins looked into the maw of the beast before them. Darius was instinctively shifting into a fighter stance while Dante reached for his knife.

And just as suddenly as it arrived, the feeling ceased with Menzai taking notice of something off in the distance neither of the two could see.

“Shit,” Darius spoke under his breath as he slowly relaxed. He almost felt like he had been holding his breath. Things began to calm and Menzai took a single step forward before he finally spoke to them. He explained the feeling they both felt as uncurdled bloodlust and then proceeded to ask them the purpose of his demonstrating it to them.
“Well… um. Besides scaring the shit out of us for teasing you, it kind of reminded me of being in the ring with some of the guys I’ve fought against. You kind of let out this aura of intimidation so you can win the fight before it even starts. You make a guy jumpy, and all his instincts, his drills, and even his muscle memory go out the window.” Darius answered with his tone growing more confident as he spoke on the subject matter from his experience.

“Like Darius said, I saw it as a tactic to either reduce morale in your target or as something to be cautious about and aware of your surrounding. We need to be ready to act since Avalia has many dangerous creatures.” Dante removed his hand from the hilt of his knife and straightened his stance.

“Yeah, like Darius said,” He playfully elbowed Dante before taking a step toward Menzai. “But I’ve never seen anything like that though. Not gonna lie, you had me worried for a second.” Darius was all smiles, grateful that Menzai was just demonstrating.

Dante looked over to his brother and pushed Darius to the ground. “Don’t mock me, you idiot.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Red Duke Redemption

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Guest House
Interaction: @princess Hafiz, Raif, Charlotte, @Lava Alckon Farim, @Potter Layla, @13org Mayet, @Rodiak Nahir, @infinite cosmos Munir, @Helo Leo, @Tpartywithzombi Ariella, @JJ Doe Riona, and @Inertia Auguste.
Mention: @SausagePat Ruby

---

“Why should he not sit there, uncle? Duke Vikena is the reason why we are gathered here, to enjoy each other’s company and learn from one another– Duke, please take a seat. I beseech you to forget his rude words. The Grand Vizier may have skipped breakfast after all.”

Skipped breakfast?! I lost my breakfast! I lost my waffles! That’s no excuse…

“Leaving so soon? Like a dog running with its tail tucked between its legs? What kind of example is that for Charlotte? You have shown us that not only are you a bumbling fool, but a coward at that. What a pity. Heed my Uncle’s words and give him his chair. He has well earned his spot; meanwhile, you should earn our respect after what you have done. You are also holding up our dinner and we could use a taste of Alidasht after the disaster you have bestowed.”

And still they throw insults at me, the Duke of Veirmont. And that snake… with that bowtie…

"Remember why exactly you are here tonight. Recognize and accept your mistakes and face them with the respect and dignity of a noble of your position. If not for yourself, do it for your daughter. Lady Charlotte does not deserve to be punished for her father's words and actions any further than she already have."

"If you truly want to become the noble and the man you wish to be, the father your daughter deserves then you need to remember one thing... Change does not come without a great deal of effort and persistence."

Respect and dignity? Punished? Persistence? What… What is this tiny girl even rambling about?!

“...I can think of no better seat at any table for a father than beside his child.”

Absolutely not! The head is the best seat, and I sat here first as the guest of honor

“I… I am proud of my stepfather, and I do not want nor require anyone's pity,”

“And I do not wish to see him disrespected.”

Lottie, there’s no need to worry about me… I don’t deserve it but thank you, my beloved daughter.

With everything said, Lorenzo had been prepared to leave. At least that is what he truly wanted. An escape from this hellish den of a dining room. Seated amongst devilish creatures that held their heads up so high their noses could graze the unblemished feet of the gods. It was almost like last night except Lorenzo felt he had better footing this time. He wouldn’t be on the floor crying and begging for forgiveness. Amongst devils, he had others on his side, and that was what steeled him for once in so long. Had it been years since Lorenzo didn’t have the entire room pointing at him with enmity in their hearts? Even so, the duke would not let himself be belittled here. To win this night, Lorenzo had to use the small advantage he had now.

Unfortunately, Lorenzo was too daft to recognize any of this…

All the man knew was that he was in a difficult predicament. Emina had taught him that sometimes it was best to leave replies in the mind, which is the smartest thing he did at this moment. Coincidentally, he was not the only one in the altercation that remained silent. All eyes were on the head of the table and Hafiz who had been quiet all this time finally spoke.

Hafiz doubled down on how he addressed him and no matter how much he decorated it with fancy explanations, Lorenzo hung on the word. Fool. And the vizier had said it right after Charlotte expressed her desire not to see him disrespected. Lorenzo didn’t know if Hafiz was instigating him to do something that would ruin this evening but the way the vizier stepped forward to blind with his shining headdress made it feel that way. Bringing up the ball again was a low blow that Lorenzo was already getting tired of. It was the entire reason he was here after all. Attending this dinner was his atonement. This was his atonement.

Lorenzo curled his toes in his shoes so he wouldn’t openly display his rising temper.

And then he said it again… With a smirk no less. The glance at Charlotte hadn’t even registered. All he witnessed was a smug Alidasht vizier calling him a fool for the third time tonight. It mattered little that Hafiz let him keep the chair now. That smirk! THAT DAMNED SMIRK! ARE YOU CALBERT IN THE FORM OF AN ALIDASHT?! ARE YOU CALBERT DAMMIT?!

Lorenzo couldn’t help it! He glared at Hafiz with fire in his eyes as if he could will the man into oblivion! And then with a heavy exhale… He relaxed, shifted his posture so he was facing forward, and placed the napkin in front of him on his lap. He took ahold of himself before he sprung off the ledge. Perhaps if it weren’t for the little bit of gin, he may have. Then again, maybe it was the alcohol itself that was making his blood boil in such a situation.

“Thank you, Hafiz. I see now why you are the vizier. And knowing that, I think I know why you wanted this seat so badly.” Lorenzo nodded affirmatively, his expression neutral. “Being second isn’t a bad thing, vizier. It’s almost as good at being first like the Sultan. So I thank you again for allowing me to earn my place here at the head.” Lorenzo gently tapped his palms on the table as his mind began to move on from the situation as it persistently did. “Which reminds me! I actually met a young woman today who was so upset that she was just the runner-up for the hat contest I judged. She was so distraught about it and I couldn’t understand why.” Lorenzo shrugged after sharing the brief story. “I guess people aren’t always quite satisfied if they simply almost succeed. ” Lorenzo gave Hafiz a genuine cheeky smile.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Southwest of Roshmi City
Interaction: Brigitte @Tae, Bardulf @Lava Alckon, Rue @Potter, and Bowyn @Helo
Mention:

---

“Thank Solaris for such an extravagant day! And look! He’s coming out to give us some warmth!” Mister Luum threw his arms up high with his fingers outstretched as he laughed joyously while walking along a dirt path hugged by the many healthy oak trees that led to Roshmi City. The pink glow of the sun was creeping through the few gaps in the vegetation relighting the fantastical world as the eccentric group traveled northeast from where the human, Bardulf was summoned. The spring season was beginning to bring in vibrant flowers that had grown tired of being buds, slightly filling the air with a splendid their splendid fragrance. A week of traveling on foot had not been the most pleasant but Mister Luum insisted that Bardulf had to see the new world that would become his home in all its glory.

“Do you want to leave our new friend at a disadvantage? Sure, we could travel to Riveport and hail a boat to North Pass, but being stuck on a boat for all that time… We wouldn’t be great hosts to our guest. Besides, I have pressing business in Roshmi City.” was his argument.

As the group crested a prominent hill with Mister Luum in the lead, the towering buildings of Roshmi could be seen in the distance. Until now this day, Mister Luum had left the socializing with the human to Rue, Bowyn, and Brigitte. The view of Roshmi City from this distance indicated the group did not have much longer before they would reach it. Once there, they planned to use the city’s vast transit hub to travel to North Pass.

“Beautiful! Look Bardulf, there she goes! Roshmi City! The pinnacle of diversity! Governed by Ravus Solsta.” The name was said with a tone different from his usual one. There was a hint of bitter fervor in it and his smile briefly dropped for once, though the others couldn’t see this before he brightened right up. “I met him once. Decent fellow,” he added before stopping in his tracks and turning back to the others. “You know, I am quite surprised we’ve traveled this far without encountering any trouble. No bandits, nasty creatures, or even an annoying beggar on the side of the road. Brigitte! Anything to report? We need Bardulf to experience some danger, and I would rather be on the up and up about it when it comes.” It almost seemed like the elf was looking for trouble.

Avalia

Soundtrack

A pink-hued sky, unlike anything they had seen before, bestowed a cordial greeting upon the humans who had been ensnared by the throes of their imminent demise just moments before. The vibrant pink shade bathed the landscape in a soft, rosy glow, imbuing the surroundings with an ethereal quality. The air itself was thick and invigorating and the colors of this world seemed to be more vivid, all due to an increased amount of oxygen. The scent of wildflowers and the sweet aroma of honey was carried on a gentle breeze that rustled the leaves.

As the bewildered humans took in their surroundings, the surreal environment slowly came into focus. The sight that greeted them was unlike anything they had ever seen before. To their surprise, they were not alone in this mystical realm. Countless pairs of eyes gazed back at them from all directions, each belonging to a unique creature that seemed to belong to a different world.

The first to be noticed was the graceful elves with their pointed ears. Their ethereal beauty was matched only by the humanoid creatures adorned with animalistic features, who moved with a fluid grace that seemed almost otherworldly. The fairies, on the other hand, hovered above the ground with iridescent wings that shimmered in the sunlight.

Even more awe-inspiring was the small number of towering orcs that stood in the distance, their massive frames towering over the rest. But despite their size, these creatures moved with a surprising grace that belied their intimidating appearance.

As the humans tried to take it all in, they noticed that behind them stood a group of elven beings, next to five large machines with screens that seemed to be flickering between random clips of earthly scenes. It was clear that these beings were not here by accident, and that they had brought the humans to this strange and wondrous world for a purpose that had yet to be revealed.

The group stood in a vast field, surrounded by towering mushrooms that reached for the heavens like colossal trees. Ancient trees, their branches reaching skyward, added to the enchanted ambiance. The forest beyond was painted with vivid hues, illuminated by the twinkling lights of playful pixies.

“...They did it!” came an excited voice. The small crowd that had gathered erupted in applause and cheering, their excitement contagious.

“Welcome, travelers, to our enchanted land,” came a voice that seemed to dance with the wind. A white-haired elven man stepped forward through the crowd toward the six humans. His voice drew a hush over the crowd at last. “I am Vaeril… I understand this may be difficult to comprehend, however, I assure you everything you hear and see is real. Please allow me to explain everything.” He moved to stand before them, his eyes gleaming with determination. “You are no longer on Earth. We have transported you from your dimension to ours. This…” He gestured around him, “This is Avalia and we are The New Dawn.” Some of the crowd erupted into cheers again and he hushed them with a wave.

“This world is nothing like you have seen before. Here, magic pulses through the very air we breathe and the land is alive with a beauty beyond comprehension. But it is also a world of darkness and oppression, ruled by the malevolent forces of dark elves.” He paused to conjure up an orb of light in his hand. “I am what you may call a light elf.” He smiled at them as he presented them with the orb. He then closed the shining bright light in his fist as his smile faded with it. “For decades, we have struggled against their tyranny, but now we have hope that you can be the lights that guide us forward. However, I am aware that it is a heavy burden to bestow upon you. We will make certain that your efforts are rewarded here.” He stretched out his arms to address them all, “Our first gift to you all is a new chance at life. You may perhaps recall through a hazy mind that your moments before arriving were grim. This is because you were at the time of your demise.”

Vaeril gave the humans a moment to take this in, knowing perhaps this had been a grave thought that had not sunken in quite yet. “Your life was fated to end at the moment we transported you here, and I am afraid if we transport you back home, you will return to that moment of peril.”

“You are our only hope, humans. You see, a legend here speaks of five demigods who each represent the elements of our planet. We believe they may hold the key to defeating the dark elves, who rule with the power of an almighty demigod of darkness.” He gestured to his allies, who nodded in agreement. “The locations of these demigods are unknown to us, however, we have the knowledge that they will only accept a being similar to themselves into their sanctuary…. We believe you may hold a power that we have not seen in this world in centuries: the power to wield elemental magics needed. You who have almost perished in a manner involving each element, now have unlocked the key to this power. If you accept us, we will help you harness your powers and fight alongside you to reclaim our world from this evil. Together, we can bring peace to Avalia once and for all.”

With that, the leader of the New Dawn rebels concluded his speech, his voice ringing with the promise of a better tomorrow. The crowd erupted into the same applause and enthusiasm, but it was the reaction of the humans that Vaeril had found himself more concerned with. He moved toward them, his blue piercing eyes falling on the two men that had come together with curiosity. He was not certain if one or both of them would display their power, but knew it would be wise to keep them together in the meantime. “Regardless of how you feel about the situation before you, humans, I will be splitting you all off into groups who will protect you now that you are here. They will be charged with training you and teaching the ways of our world.”
“Mister Luum, Malachi Elowyn, Captain Drosis Morr, Rowan and Aurora Dyewynn, and Menzai Isanami. You have been tasked with leading our five groups. You’ll be provided with a list of your group members as well as your locations. I will assign to you all humans of my choosing. ”

---

A week passes by after this event and the humans find themselves in their respective groups, split off for their utmost safety. During this time, the humans are to fully learn what the Avalians want of them and digest the change to some extent.

The twins, who showcased an ability to harness the material of the earth, are entrusted to Menzai to bring to his village. Since the two could not use their magic when separated, it was vital to send them with someone with extensive knowledge of human magic as well. The village of Guarav has managed to evade much of the dark elf’s influence and it may be one of the safest places a human can be.

Aurora and Rowan Dyewynn are both respected for their past contributions to the late Sun Elf Kingdom. They were presented with Zora, who has shown her affinity with water magic.

Captain Drosis Morr, is a well-respected member of the New Dawn led by Vaeril, known as The New Dawn. He is entrusted with the pyrokinetic, Ismael.

Last and not least, Malachi Elowyn and Mister Luum are both Vaeril’s highest trusted members. He has entrusted Jun, the aerokinetic, with Malachi, and Bardulf, the lightning user, with Mister Luum.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Red Duke Redemption

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Guest House
Interaction: @princess Hafiz, Raif, Charlotte, @Lava Alckon Farim, @Potter Layla, @13org Mayet, @Rodiak Nahir, @infinite cosmos Munir, @Helo Leo, @Tpartywithzombi Ariella, @JJ Doe Riona, and @Inertia Auguste.
Mention:

---

Hafiz's Reputation

Lorenzo had sat comfortably at the head of the table opposite of Sultan Raif who simply stared back at him. Everything seemed to be going swell so far and the gifts hadn't even been presented yet. However, the Alidasht royal, Farim whispered a warning of sitting in Grand Vizier Hafiz's seat. Lorenzo raised a brow, finding something so trivial quite ridiculous. In my home, it's first come first served. That's why I make sure I hurry to the table before anyone else does. And I thought the book said they were competitive… I think it'll be fine. He might not even come.

Mayet was the second to address Lorenzo about his seating choice. Unfortunately, her roundabout way of asking, no matter how forceful, was simply taken as a suggestion. It was more about what she said and not how she said it. It wasn't because of some backward thinking either. Lorenzo honestly thought Mayet always sounded aggressive as he had no frame of reference for the contrary. He gave her a quiet nod, not budging from the seat.

When Hafiz burst into the dining room, Lorenzo initially looked at him with a smile out of politeness but found his turban to be… a bit much. He naturally averted his gaze from the slight strobing effect of the sparkling jewels. The lighting of the room reflected off it like newly polished gold. Kier would have stolen that shiny cap for sure.

As Hafiz bee-lined toward him, Lorenzo kept his gaze on the tablecloth to avoid making an odd squinting face at the vizier. The Alidasht were very sensitive about disrespect. That fact is one Nathaniel had drilled into him while they shopped for gifts. It was thanks to Nathaniel that Lorenzo might have any hope of surviving tonight thanks to a recital of information on the exotic kingdom pulled from a history book and last week's newspaper highlighting their arrival. There was a great piece written with useful information but whether or not Lorenzo remembered… Well, that would determine how this evening turned out for the man.

“Good evening. Vizier Hafiz. You almost made me believe dawn was breaking in the evening. You look too incredible for me to look at. Really.” Lorenzo complimented while he shielded his eyes from the man looming over him now.

"Duke Vikena. Move from that seat," Lorenzo didn't understand why he approached with such animosity toward him about the seat. He might have simply given it up until Hafiz spoke again, this time with venom that wouldn't be detected by the others at the table.

"You insolent fool."

But Duke Lorenzo Vikena was all too familiar with this venom. It reminded him so much of Count Damien, a man he both feared and despised. That single shot of gin Nathaniel gave him was just enough to diminish one of those feelings. The former…

With a hand held up to shield his eyes from the sparkling turban, Lorenzo looked up at Hafiz to the best of his ability.

“Vizier Hafiz Kadir, though you are a sight to behold, your order to have me move and your insult in addressing out of my name disrespects not me, but your family and country. Me? An insolent fool? Is this how the Alidasht treat their honored guests? One who has brought gifts to admonish the mistake he made against your family? In front of foreigners who have welcomed you into our country!” Lorenzo shook his head in disappointment.

“Hospitality, Vizier. Is that not a right to a guest of your people? And are you not praised for your tact and ability to speak eloquently? But I will say again, you call your honored guests a fool! Why shouldn't I just leave? Actually… I don't feel very welcomed here. Charlotte.” He addressed her as if telling her to be prepared to go.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 4 p.m. -> 5:30pm p.m.
Location: Markets ->
Interaction:
Mention:

---

Fortunately, Lorenzo refrained from acting against Dr. Williamson after he explained himself. Besides, the poor young lady seemed warm to his presence. I guess she likes that sort of thing… Doctors slapping her in such a way. A fetish maybe? Lorenzo minded his business until the conclusion of the play but couldn’t help but notice the character simply referred to as the duke. He was juggling prop ferrets, which was something he couldn’t ignore. He stared at the jester-like character longer than he probably should have. The insult sank into his heart like a rusted and jagged dagger. That’s how they see me. That’s how they all see me. He shut his eyes tight to the stage, shouldering the emotional wound the seemingly accurate rendition of him left. [color

Before the curtain could fall, Lorenzo stormed out, his face stern as he clutched his ferret Kier in his arms.

No longer! He swore to himself as he walked briskly to his carriage readied by the reliable driver, Benjamin. “Take me home this instant! We must pick up Nathaniel. And then, we head back into town. I will need gifts for dinner tonight.”

With little to say, Benjamin did as he was ordered. He made sure to get to the estate as quickly as possible, especially with Lorenzo constantly asking if he could faster every leg of the route. Once the carriage arrived in front of Lorenzo’s Sorian property, he rushed out continuing the brisk walk he had started after leaving the theater. Upon entering the estate, burst past the foyer.

“Nathaniel!” Nathaniel was literally standing five feet from Lorenzo ready to greet him.

“Y-yes my lord.” Nathaniel was a bit taken aback and he dealt with the duke every day. Lorenzo was offering up Kier with outstretched arms.

“Have Delilah see Kier groomed and returned to his quarters. Then, I need her to lay out an outfit for tonight’s dinner. Time is of the essence! Once that is done, get to the carriage. We have shopping tend to.”

“I’ll make haste, my lord.” Nathaniel nodded as he took Kier reluctantly as the ferret sometimes bit him. He never knew why but always tried to avoid handling the critter when he could. His best bet was to get Kier to Delilah immediately. The matter of shopping with the duke was strange but it would give him something different to do which was an escape from his mundane duties.

With simultaneous nods, the two men briskly darted in opposite directions. Lorenzo was making his way back to the carriage while Nathaniel was trying to find Delilah while enduring the sporadic bites from Kier. Gods!

In a few moments, Lorenzo, Benjamin, and Nathaniel were headed back into town with Lorenzo laser-focused on one task. Gifts!

---

Red Duke Redemption

Time: 5:45 p.m.
Location: Vikena Estate
Interaction: @princess
Mention:

Nathaniel was the first to enter the estate after the round of errands for gifts and other items, but only because Lorenzo insisted on carrying the most bags in so he didn’t look like a “juggling jester of a fool!” Nathaniel didn’t quite understand it, but he simply conformed to the Duke’s odd request as he had always done. Despite this, he knew his place and would not disrespect Lorenzo’s title. As he carried his few bags in he gently set them down.

“Duke Vikena, I am coming to take some of your bags!” Nathaniel called as he watched Lorenzo teeter back and forth as he slowly walked the path to the estate. Lorenzo’s face was as red as a tomato, taking on far too much than he could. He hadn’t considered the walk from where the carriage would park to the front door. This was possibly the biggest inconvenience of the property's design, though Lorenzo did enjoy the opportunity to have more flora planted out front.

“I have it!” Lorenzo argued, yet… Gods this is heavy! I hope he just takes some of these bags!

“Duke Vikena, I insist!” Nathaniel could not ignore Lorenzo’s struggle. He’d drop the bags or pop a blood vessel before he got to the door. Nathaniel took some of the bags, rather easily from Lorenzo who feigned a sigh.

“I was fine but thank you, Nathaniel.” Lorenzo was absolutely grateful! The two hurried inside, gently setting down the bags. “Alright, ensure these gifts aren’t damaged! I must get dressed!” Lorenzo darted up the stairs so fast that he tripped and fell after the sixth step. “Oof!” He let out before picking himself up. “Grr!” he grunted as he continued up the steps on all fours.
Once in his room, his eyes focused on the outfit on his bed. Yes, Delilah! YES! This is perfect! Lorenzo smiled so big that if he had a third row of teeth, they’d show.

Maybe…

“Look out Alidasht. I’m ready for you. In fact…” Lorenzo walked over to his bed and got down on his hands and knees to look underneath. To his surprise, the containers of gin and opium were nowhere to be found. Did I… Did I run out? No… but… Fuck. Fuck! FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! I can’t face them completely sober. They’ll eat me alive! FUCK!

“Duke Vikena. Is everything alright? The gifts are all intact.” Lorenzo popped up from the floor as suspiciously as anyone could be.

“Of course! I was just-”

“In need of an edge. I know, my lord.” Nathaniel raised his brows, showing he understood Lorenzo's struggle.

“Uh… Yes, but not much. Just-”

“Something you can control. Honestly, it’s probably for the best. That flask of yours is… Well, it’s dangerous.” Nathaniel nodded sternly.

“Wait… You know about the flask?” Lorenzo was quite surprised since he mixed his drugs within the confines of his room. Then again, he was not a mastermind in keeping things hidden.

“How could I not, my lord? I’ll go get something for you while you get dressed. Ride for the length of the dinner and I’m sure you’ll be fine. Besides, you have Lady Vikena to accompany you. I assure you, you both can face these Alidasht savages. They are nothing compared to the ire of the Sorian political climate. You skimmed that book you wanted, yes?”

“Yes, some of it but-”

“Duke Vikena, you now know more than what you knew. Use it. It’s what Walter did. You may see him as someone to surpass, naturally so but he was a fool who simply quoted dead men. You can do this,” Nathaniel assured.

“I can… I can!” Lorenzo felt a tinge of confidence.

“Perfect. I will return with the edge you need, my lord.” Nathaniel nodded before exiting the doorway. He left Lorenzo to face his outfit and his expectations.

With the devilish red outfit adorned, Lorenzo walked from his room taking a swig of gin given to him by Nathaniel before heading down the stairs to meet with Charlotte. There was an unfamiliar presence accompanied with his descent down the steps. It almost appeared as if he had taken pointers from Count Damien, yet Nathaniel stood at the top of the steps with a satisfied grin.

Young Justice

Location: Bank Fourth Floor
Interactions: The Team

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“Well, shit…” Viktor said as he rounded a row of cubicles and caught sight of the excessively beaten bank robbers Vincent discovered. “I shouldn’t say ‘I’m not sure’ but this situation is escalating unpredictably.” Viktor sighed. His theory on what was transpiring on the tip of his tongue. However, he refrained from telling Vincent that Kila or Ja was acting violently out of sorts. He was going to request a status report so he would at least know what the next best move should be when he heard Cora over comms. She was giving a status report before she cut out.

The idea of there being a threat to his team that continued to elude him was visibly frustrating him now. Viktor swung a fist back into the nearest wall, punching through the plaster as if it was paper.

“I’m getting tired of this. Talos, there’s no point in pinning these two down, and I’m not waiting for another incomplete report over comms. Fifth floor, let’s go.” Viktor would be taking the same stairwell as Vincent this time.

By the time the two of them reached the fifth floor, they would arrive just in time to witness Cora blasting the two robbers in the elevator with electricity. The buttons inside lit and unlit sporadically before the elevator alarm rang with a shrill bell ring. Besides those riding Cora’s lightning, Viktor didn’t see any other robbers being a problem but there were two people on the floor he was focused on. He looked toward the hero who had accompanied Daphne through the majority of the mission. Giving a quick nod, Viktor turned his attention to Kila. The elevator alarm was still going off but he attempted to address his troubled teammate nevertheless.

“Metamorph! What is your status?!” The rifle in his possession was instinctively at the low ready. He could see he was close to Daphne but that observation was not enough for him. He needed to hear it from his peer’s mouth.