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:

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Lorenzo was completely unbothered during the brief discussion of whether or not he should be the one saying grace at the table this evening. This always happens hehehe. No one can ever decide who to choose to say the good word before dinner. Can't say I blame Hafiz and Mayet for trying to steal away my spotlight. And then the sultan made his decision. But it won't happen today! I'm the guest of honor after all. Ha!” He didn't even realize he was wearing the goofiest smile on his face.

Now with permission from Raif, Lorenzo was prepared to begin but a sudden hiss and a yelp from Charlotte drew his attention to his left. A single eyebrow raised in confusion as Charlotte was now standing up, yet the cobra was on the other side of the table. She didn't… did she?” Lorenzo's confused expression slowly morphed into one of contempt as his gaze remained glued to the serpent and its fancy little bowtie. The duke was somewhat torn as he realized Layla had used the well-dressed cobra to terrify his daughter. He hadn't been the biggest fan of snakes but the sight of the classic black adornment tied snuggly on Zilal was one of his personal highlights of the night.

Still, no one attacks Charlotte. A young woman who's done nothing wrong! This truly is a punishment, is it? Was this… He looked across the length of the table at Sultan Raif who was extremely aloof compared to the others. He wasn't hot-blooded like the rest of his family. Not speaking to be heard like his family or even like Edin but to bring forth action with his words. If this was a play, he was the director amongst turbulent actors. Was this all his intention all along? Lorenzo's remembrance of the conclusion of the previous night's blunder struck deeply at his thoughts.

“Duke Lorenzo, you have humiliated myself and my family. This is something we do not take lightly and if this were in my court things would be ending very differently. We are not, however, so I must honor the court we are in. That being said, this is the judgment I pass on to you. While my family resides here in Caesonia, you shall come to the castle once a week…And you shall have dinner with my family and I.”

Coincidentally, at that very moment, Raif spoke, addressing and scolding his children. Not only that, he sent Layla to her room as if she were a disobedient child. He watched as she departed, surprised the woman had been sent away for her actions. And he thought these royals were untouchable within the confines of this space. He was just about to give Charlotte a look of assurance that everything would be fine but her eyes were looking across the table at none other than Mayet who was at the moment gazing directly at him.

Is she staring at me? And did she say something about having patients? A doctor and a princess all in one, huh? Lorenzo awkwardly turned to look behind himself to see if there was anyone else she'd be staring at in such a way but there was no one there. Again he met her gaze. It was a look he recognized far too well, especially during this past year while he resided with Veirmont. A look that could break a man's spirit and intimidate him into a state of freeze. He felt an unexpected wave of heat across his body as he took a shallow yet deliberate breath. With the most stoicism he could muster up, Lorenzo presented Mayet with a single nod before addressing the table.

“Just one moment, Raif. I need to sort something out very quickly. It's very important, my friend,” Lorenzo grinned before he leaned to his right to whisper to Farim.

“Sorry to interrupt but your cousin. Mayet. She's making eyes at me in an intense thirsting manner and I… Actually, I'll just address it.”

“Ahem. Raif, I humbly apologize for the sidebar conversation and for making you wait on your well-prepared feast but there is something I must address and it cannot wait. I have come here as a guest of honor but also to repair the damage I have done to you, your family, and your culture. Leading with that, I want to express that I do not intend on courting, wedding, or bedding any of your daughters this season. Normally, I wouldn't state such a thing but Shezadi Mayet has been rather obvious with the type of eye contact she has been giving me. So, I must humbly decline her advances. You see, she is very beautiful but she's about Charlotte's age, a cat person… No offense Lottie But- Nevermind. And lastly, I don't believe I'm quite in the courting spirit as I am still grieving my late wife Emina. It just wouldn't work. But, I do have an olive branch I am willing to extend…” Lorenzo's stomach suddenly grumbled with hunger.

“BUT that can wait! I think grace is in order. Uh, everyone, join hands. Come on, don't be shy. ” He surprisingly grasped Hafiz's hand with an almost unnatural accuracy and swiftness. “Now bow your heads in silence while I give thanks.” Lorenzo smiled with glee as he shut his and bowed his head. Shit! I know how to do a combined Caesonia-Varian grace but I don't know what the Alidasht people worship!

“Eh… Gods of Eromora, we of three peoples of three kingdoms are harmoniously joined here in your everlasting presence to give thanks for the sustenance you have provided us this evening. Gods of beasts and hunting have given us the means to use the creatures of our land, skies, and seas to fill our vessels. Gods of harvest grant us the means to take in the nutrients of Eromora's produce, grains, and spices. We ask that this meal be blessed with benevolence and for any gods of mischief, deceit, and death to stay your hand from this gathering of men and women seeking to find at least a semblance of unity amongst us as we pray and eat together this evening. We ask that you bring fortune and good health to not only us but those who have prepared this meal as their fingertips tingle with the touch of the Gods of creation. Just as you shaped and brought forth the life we now experience, the cooks and servers in this room created this moment where representatives of three kingdoms share a warm delicious meal. Allow fortune to find us all in the good that we do and love for those who seek to find their other half for as grand as your love is for us, it will never be enough… And I must not forget. Please forgive Shehzadi Layla Kadir and her snake as they do not deserve punishment but instead your guiding hands to place her on a more virtuous path. Again we, the Caesonian, the Alidasht, and the Varians give humble thanks to the gods we worship and revere. Amen.” Lorenzo finally lifted his head cheerfully, opening his eyes that let loose streams of tears as he was so moved by his own words.

“W-we can eat now.” He said with his voice slightly cracking at the end.

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

---

The two brothers continued listening to Menzai's words of guidance. Though the idea of cheating death only to attain abilities beyond their wildest dreams was an awesome experience to indulge in, both Darius and Dante could not forget what they were brought here to do. The task that they had accepted. As exciting as it seemed, it carried the weight of many people's livelihoods. Despite being a good start, revolving stones and floating boulders weren't going to cut it.

The recommendation of small games was answered with a silent nod in agreement from Dante. Darius, however, chose to speak.

“Deal!” He replied while also giving a similar nod. Things were calmed if only for a moment before Menzai made mention of a "grand game to finish this in the end,” which piqued the interests of the twins. Their competitive natures caused each to give their own smug looks of confidence. Darius wore a large almost mischievous grin while Dante wore a slight smirk and raised an eyebrow.

It won't even be a competition.

Doesn't matter how strong he gets, he ain't getting the best of me.

While the two awaited Menzai's list of criticisms concerning the demonstrations of their grasp on earth magic, a sudden and loud screech in the distance. It caused the two brothers to look up and around at the sky, as they were both unfamiliar with the creature causing the disturbance. To them, it sounded like a bird of prey due to the distance they were from it masking how dire the situation actually was.

“Sounds like Phia threw a surprise party for an eagle or somethin',”
Darius smirked.

“Nah, bro. That doesn't sound good. Where's she at anyway?” There was a hint of concern in his voice as he'd gotten used to her appearing in the middle of Menzai's instructions. They were now looking at Menzai for answers.

“What's going on?”
“What's going on?”

They asked in unison.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Southwest of Roshmi
Interaction:Brigitte @Tae, Bardulf @Lava Alckon, Rue @Potter, Bowyn @Helo, and Zeva @Pink Khione
Mention:
Equipment:Fancy Ring, Cold Ring, Oak Wood Staff!, Brown Leather Fingerless Channeling Gloves (not worn), Transmission Bracelet, 500 Amas.

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“Bardulf, have you killed that- Oh...” Mister Luum looked just in time to watch Badulf courageously charge at the owlbear. Swift and deliberate. This is good. This is really good! His face lit up with excitement watching the human inflict injuries on the creature. Now it’s time for him to… Wait, what? Mister Luum disappointedly watched as Bardulf jumped away to take his place behind Rue again.

“Come on! Don’t tease the killing blow!” Mister Luum complained as the others stepped in to attack. First Zeva displayed her acrobatic combat and though Mister Luum was impressed by how it looked, the owlbear was still standing. He walked up right beside her with his smile still intact. “Don’t think that keeping it alive for Bardulf will relieve my suspicions of you.” Mister Luum spoke quietly enough for only her to hear. His attention quickly switched back to the owlbear that was now somewhat immobilized by Bowyn’s ice magic. Still, the creature pushed itself, now fighting for its survival rather than getting a convenient meal now. Mister Luum found the sight tragic as there was no possibility of the creature escaping its early death, even if it fled. Rue might have made a difference, with her abilities to speak to it and her healing magic but the fairy did not seem to have such intentions as she ensured Bardulf was safely behind her.

This all presented a problem as things weren’t playing out as he envisioned. To see Bardulf in all his glory slay his first Avalian beast. Blood trickling from his halberd. Beads of sweat glistening his rugged face. And a very dead owlbear.

“Excuuuse me!” Mister Luum stepped forward toward the owlbear roaring in both pain and aggression. “Hello, owlbear. I am Mister Luum. Now, I know you can’t see me very well but I only need you to listen… Then again, you can’t even understand me either.” Mister Luum sighed. “Sorry, I forgot I’m just an elf.” The owlbear swiped its frostbitten paw at Mister Luum, who oddly didn’t flinch at the desperate attack that failed to reach him from where he stood. The ice that was still holding was beginning to crackle, grabbing Mister Luum’s attention. “Oh… Well, as a light elf. Do as light elves do, I guess.” He shrugged nonchalantly. With his back to the others, Mister Luum’s eyes glowed amaranth as he held up his palm glowing with golden light. “Gracious Solaris, grant me the strength to smite this creature and deliver death upon he!” Mister Luum a gentle thrust of his hand, a steady concentrated blast of light magic was fired at the owlbear’s face. Despite the attack not being in their direction, the rays of light were bright enough to obscure the creature from the rest of the group. There was a brief screeching cry before a thud was heard. And just like that, the bright light was absent.

The sight of the owlbear was not a pretty one. The feathers of the entire front half of its body were severely charred with steam coming off the dead animal carcass. Its face, Mister Luum’s target was steaming profusely while blacked and disfigured to the point that it was unrecognizable.

Mister Luum crouched down with eyes returned to their previous color to take a closer look at what he had done, a warm smile on his face yet he didn’t say a word.

🗡 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:

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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

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“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.