FunnyGuy

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Red Duke Redemption

Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Guest House
Interaction: @princess Hafiz, Raif, Charlotte, @Lava Alckon Farim, @Rodiak Nahir, @infinite cosmos Munir, @Helo Leo, @Tpartywithzombi Ariella, @JJ Doe Riona, @Inertia Auguste, @princess Anastasia, and @Terrance420 Alden
Mention: @Silverpaw Wulfric

---

My mouth is getting so dry right now.

The thought was enough to distract him from the ongoing back and forth. Feeling the attention off himself, Lorenzo became a little bolder, grabbing a spoon and spreading some hummus on the small piece of naan he had left. By the gods this pea- hummus is delicious. I'll need to convince Gilbert to make some one of these days. He grinned at the new flavors that he was currently experiencing.

The room finally grew silent as everyone finally indulged in the food in front of them. Eventually, the desserts were served but Lorenzo practiced some level of self-control as he only partook in eating half of a portion of baklava. This too, he found to be quite delicious and sweet to his palate.

“Mmmmmm! I'll need to procure the recipe for this flaky pastry.” Lorenzo was feeling comfortable again, especially after eliminating the snake and the tiger from the room. It conveniently worked out in his favor despite how dire things seemed to have become. It reminded him of a tale he was told as a child about a flock of pigeons… or was it doves? Or crows? Eagles maybe? They were birds! What if they were fish? Lorenzo could hardly remember. All of them dived for the chance at an easy meal, only for all but one to survive the doom of being captured and eaten due to the bait that naturally attracted them. Lorenzo had dove but managed to pull away just in time. Wait, the story was about a wench and suitors. Yes. He pulled out just in time. Yes!

He briefly smirked to himself, finding the recollection quite humorous. Tonight had not been as bad as it could have been and he was sure the ill events would be forgotten as the current calmness in the dining room took hold of the situation.

The sudden entrance of Anastasia, caused the duke to slightly jump in his seat. Initially, he wondered if one of the Shehzadi had returned for vengeance against him but fortunately, he was met with the sight of Princess Anastasia and Alden Plannington. Their presence was quite a pleasant surprise with Alden's presence reminding him of his discussion with Prince Wulfric. An advisor! Lorenzo thought as he followed Anastasia's form, traveling from person to person in the room.

“Duke Lorenzo.” She put her hands on her hips and grinned. “Duke Lorenzo fucking Vikena. …”

Lorenzo couldn't help but blush slightly. He was wondering why these young women were giving him this kind of attention tonight. First Mayet, and now Anastasia. He glanced at Nahir, but quickly averted his gaze. No, not a chance. There's no way I'm three for four with young princesses. Ugh, this is troubling. I'm torn on whether I should give in to this kind of attention. I don't think Charlotte would appreciate me courting someone so close to her age.

“Can we stop and appreciate this ensemble? They don't play around in Veirmont. Yow! Matching hat and everything.”

“Please, princess, let's leave the best region of the north out of this… Even if it is the best place to be. And thank you for the compliment. It means a lot coming from royalty.” He smiled as he placed his hands on the table and nodded to Charlotte.

“I think it's about time we depart. As much as I'd love to stay, I have important matters at home to attend to. Sultan Raif, thank you for inviting me to dinner this evening. I would also like to apologize for any issues I may have caused. And that includes last night's events as well. And though I did bring gifts to accompany my apology, I would like to… withhold them. After sitting down with you and your family, I believe what I managed to procure isn't fitting for any of you. Allow me to take what I've learned from you all tonight to adjust my choice of gifts.” The duke frowned before forcing an uneasy smile. “And I have not forgotten that we still need to speak. I think that by then, I will have more appropriate gifts for you and your family. Though I insist, I can accept your decline of this offer.” He nervously scratched the back of his head before realizing he was forgetting something. “Oh and thanks again for allowing me this seat Hafiz. Next time, I'll let you sit at the head, whenever that may be. Promise. And wait! One more thing! With all of you here, I would like to announce that I, Duke Lorenzo Vikena, am searching for an official advisor this season! And who better than one of you gracious people I'm in the presence of?”

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, 560 Amas.

---

Mister Luum gazed upon the owlbear carcass for an entire minute, surveying the parts affected by his attack. All the while, his ears picked up all that everyone had to say. He found Bardulf's apology much needed considering he had to clean up the mess the human was tasked with dealing with. He didn't care much for the excuse since the apology is all that mattered to the middle-aged elf. Mister Luum made a waving gesture toward the human as he finally stood up, quietly signaling him to continue on the path. The confident faux smile he wore on his face at the moment was passable.

“Go on ahead. I just need to take a breather and maybe give as good of a prayer over the beast's body as our pleasant Rue did.” He gave them a swift nod to continue on the path to Roshmi City before his eyes locked on Zeva. He had faith no other mishaps would befall them the rest of the way.

“Brigitte, get to work on the owlbear! Get as much as you can carry from this beast while I have a word with our new friend.” Mister Luum said excitedly and loud enough to grab Zeva's attention. His eyes studied the other elf before he took an exaggerated step forward.

“Aye, Mister Luum.” Brigitte responded as she quickly got to work, actually finding quite a bit of interesting stuff within the animal. Quite the hoarder, this creature was, but she supposed she shouldn’t be surprised with it likely often attacking travelers for food.

During the fight, Brigitte had tried to divide her attention between making sure Mister Luum was protected and the human was protected. She didn’t want to interfere too much, however, as she knew the group needed practice fighting together and Bardulf needed the practice of learning how to utilize his magic. She shot off a few shots of her bow, but nothing substantial. She mostly stood aside, preparing to grab the bandages quickly in case anyone got an injury and she needed to be a field medic.

“Elf to elf, introductions are in order, don't you think? I am Mister Luum, esteemed adventurer and entrepreneur. I hail from our motherland, Illuminata… yet I have not been home in quite some time. A very long time.” He briefly turned his head to face southwest and let a shallow sigh escape from his breath. “But enough about me. You appear to be quite interesting. At least to me. So tell me, who are you, and what path did fate place you on that led you to me and my friends?” Mister Luum asked this but quickly glanced down at Brigitte to check on her progress and then returned his gaze to Zeva once more.

“All done, Mister Luum.” Brigitte finally said, carrying an impressive amount of stuff from the owl bear. It likely was quite humorous seeing this soft-looking girl carrying more than the normal person could.

🗡 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:

---

With the conclusion of grace…

Lorenzo had nearly cried
But remained dignified
Mayet sought to threat
Blade and neck had met
Lorenzo could have died

Or at least thought that's what would happen. The threat of a blade from Mayet was upon him yet again. Being two for two in a situation like this with the same individual almost marked the young princess as his reaper. He was silent and still, afraid that any sudden movement might further provoke her. He wondered why he had gone forth and embarrassed Mayet in such a way. He didn't intend for things to turn out like this but his words were his worst enemy, only second to his actions.

Mayet's intimidating presence had somehow dwarfed that of the deadly tiger that accompanied her. He could only think of one person he had enraged to this level, to the extent that he was sure they'd find pleasure in ending his life. Emina… The scars that decorated his face were not from war or any form of mutual combat. The intense stare, the unmoving lips, and eyebrows that furrowed so tightly, they threatened to touch the bridge of one's nose. There was no point speaking when a person became like this. They loathed everything about you, including your voice. Like a storm, they could not be reasoned with. Try demanding a storm to cease. Try to beg it for mercy. It will destroy you just the same. The best thing he could do now was patiently wait for it to die down and endure what was in store in the meantime.

The voice of Farim broke through the silence as the young man moved to de-escalate the situation. And though Lorenzo was grateful and slightly relieved, he remained silent. His hand slowly reached the nearest reprieve from the massive pressure he was feeling. One wrong word could put his life in danger once more. One more wrong word could have another Alidasht at his neck. He needed to grab hold of something that could rescue him from this dilemma.

Lorenzo felt as if the entire room had slowed with the attention of eyes off him and on Mayet and her cousin for the moment. He had to get it he had to save himself! The moment his fingers touched what he was aiming to grab off the table, he grabbed into his hand without hesitation. It wasn't perfect, but it was the closest thing he could get his hands on. And even if he weren't saved by it, at least he'd be satisfied. Not only would he have attempted to help himself but also his rumbling belly. The disc-shaped naan he acquired was pulled back towards him and with a careful movement, he brought it to his mouth. The bite he took was especially big, more than enough to stuff his mouth and stay his tongue for a while. A skewer might have been tastier, but the bread would do just fine.

Raif erupted from his end of the table but Lorenzo was too swift. He was already taking his second chew. He kept his jaw still as the sultan snapped his children before aiming sharp daggering words in his direction. Lorenzo nodded silently, failing to hide the fact that his mouth was bulging with naan. The moment Raif ended, Lorenzo resumed his strategic chomping, taking sequential bites before he managed to swallow all that was being chewed. As long as he had the bread in hand, he'd continue his long cycle of continuous chewing. Even if he had a disagreement, he would be unable to voice it clearly. In essence, he was somewhat safe as ridiculous as he might appear.

My mouth is getting so dry right now.

🗡 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:

---

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.

---

“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:

---

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.”