FunnyGuy

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Edward's Estate
Interaction: @princess @Helo @PapaOso @CitrusArms Cassius, Callum, Charlotte, Victoria, Stratya
Mention:

Lorenzo was grinning ear to ear as the festivities escalated between the members of his table. The tension between himself and Cassius was beginning to dissipate in the presence of competition. Whether or not it was healthy could be left up for debate. Everyone being in good spirits was a great sign, so Lorenzo would persist. A few drinks could never ruin him, right?

At the same time, he tried to remain mindful of Charlotte who was already slurring and swaying about. She’s happy, he mentally assured himself. They were all having fun—a good ol’ time. There was even a live performance from Drake Edwards, the birthday boy!

Lorenzo raised another glass.

“To the young and talented Drake Edwards!” Lorenzo announced before downing his drink. “I must have the recipe for these drinks!” He exclaimed.

“And this next piece is a surprise one - gifted to me by a special someone. A spectacular person by the name of Charlotte Vikena. Thank you for blessing me with such a fine gift on such a fine day, milady.”

Lorenzo gasped as he looked at Charlotte in amazement at discovering her music would be played in front of such an audience, in front of princes, princesses, dukes, and duchesses from all over the world! To find that Charlotte was so beloved made him feel so proud of her. To think she did it on her own and despite his many follies.

“Lottie that’s your song!” Lorenzo shouted listening in awe. “That deserves another!” He tapped a nearby servant without having to leave his seat. “Hey, just set the whole tray down here. You deserve a much-needed break,” Lorenzo insisted as the servant reluctantly set a tray of cocktails down at the table. With a stupid mischievous grin on his flushed face, Lorenzo turned to face Cassius and winked. “Looks like I brought the bar to us, huh?” He giggled with amusement before grabbing a glass and setting it as close as he could to Cassius. A bit of it spilled over in his unsteady hands, a strong indicator for him that these cocktails were hitting him harder than he initially believed they would. The Duke nearly thought he might be off his game when it came to consuming alcoholic beverages but hearing Drake slur just before he took a tumble off-stage informed him something else was afoot. He should have put more thought into figuring out what was happening but his and mostly everyone else’s focus shifted to Drake. The young man was being helped by several attendees, including Prince Callum which may have narrowed the competition to Lorenzo’s dismay. Defeating the sons of Edin and Calbert would be a legendary tale to tell his grandchildren someday!

Drake had fallen but Lorenzo was sure the young man would pick himself back up and push on. It was his very own personal holiday afterall. It appeared things would smooth over… at least until Duchess Victoria marched across the grass to ridicule her son only moments after ridiculing her daughter, Ariella. To think such pleasant children had to tolerate that abhorrent woman their entire lives. Trying to slow down on his drinking and keep his mind off of one of his sworn enemies, he took a sip of yet another cocktail… a small one. Really.

"Servants! Now would be a fabulous time to bring out more hors d'oeuvres, don’t you think? And everyone, do help yourselves to the buffet! So much to enjoy!" That might have been the last of her but Ariella stepped up to her challengingly. “Is there going to be a fight? Between mother and daughter? Hmm… I would love to see Ariella smack the ego off her face.” Lorenzo did not attempt to keep the thought to himself while his attention remained fixated on the two women.

“Take off yerr shoes!” Lorenzo’s eyebrows raised upon hearing the heckle toward Victoria. He craned his head to see none other than Knight Captain Stratya Durmand with one hand cupped around her mouth and the other holding one of those impressive cocktails. There were several chuckles and stifled laughs amongst the crowd, and for once he was not at the center of it. Of all people who could have a turn at being laughed at, he did not foresee a chance to mock Duchess Victoria ever coming to pass. This… This was an opportunity Lorenzo could not pass up. With no inhibitions holding him back, Lorenzo took a deep breath and pointed toward Victoria.

“She won’t do it! It would be a crime Knight Captain! Victoria knows she has the stinkiest feet in the Kingdom! Trust me when I say it would be easier to bury your face in WEEK-OLD ROYAL CURD CHEESE left in the blistering heat than to be subjected to the hell of her removing her shoes!”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Edward's Estate
Interaction: @princess Cassius, Callum, Charlotte
Mention:

Surprisingly, just one of the drinks helped to take some of the edge off of Lorenzo. Though he was aware of how terrible it was to medicate himself with it, Lorenzo would be lying if he claimed it never helped sometimes. His eyes admired his glass as he attempted to keep himself from butting into Charlotte's fun with her two new and peculiar male friends. He winced.

A Danrose and a Damien… How did this happen? It's… it's not bad, I guess. Unexpected but she's having fun… she's having fun… she's having fun, Lorenzo. He beat those final thoughts into his head until he couldn't but hear Cassius baiting the others into a drinking contest of sorts. Lorenzo finally turned his head, first looking at Charlotte, then to Callum, and finally Cassius.

“Shall we see who can keep up?”

“Let’s! The Duke of Vermillion could use a warm up… Like a rival of mine famously says, ‘I’m here to play… and win.’” Lorenzo downed one of his two cocktails before flashing a mischievous grin at the young men.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Edward's Estate
Interaction: @princess Cassius, Callum, Charlotte
Mention:

Lorenzo was wearing a warm smile of glee on his face. How could he not? He had just confronted Cassius about his slightly inappropriate behavior with Charlotte, using the appropriate amount of tact without ruining a potential new relationship between himself and Cassius. Now he and the rest of the members of his table could enjoy some spirits to improve the already positive environment further. Or so he thought… It always seemed to play out that way for the duke but this was… Let’s say this was unique to other times. Pay attention.

“Are you finished?” Lorenzo turned to face Cassius again, wondering what he might say. He only hoped Cassius did not mean to apologize. It might have been nice but it would lay things on a little too thick. Lorenzo only wished to reach a mutual understanding between himself and Cassius that he could truly treasure from now onward. It was unfortunate that this was something Lorenzo and Calbert never reached and possibly never would. At least here, there seemed to be hope. He felt the soft brush of Cassius’ hand on his shoulder and welcomed the kind gesture with a smile. He almost gave thanks but something about how he said his previous words stayed his tongue. Something was very wrong, and it took a hair too long to realize it.

“I’m truly not sure what I’ve done to earn such ire, your grace, but you are fortunate that I am a man forgiving of such…outbursts. Insults, threats…all in the span a moment, really. Is that how a man of your status…a father...should conduct himself?”

“Eh.” Lorenzo nervously let out as he was a bit confused about Cassius’ defensiveness. Saying I would treat you harshly for treating my daughter harshly is ire? What? In Lorenzo’s perplexity, he allowed Cassius to continue, hoping there was a dark-humored punch-line ready to be delivered. Instead…

“How amusing, the thought of a street-rat bastard such as myself lecturing a Duke in the art of decorum. I mean look at you…”

Maybe he… Perhaps he is joking… Yes, he doesn’t seem angry… but that doesn’t mean he isn’t. Lorenzo gulped as the sharpness of Cassius’s words pressed against him. Not with lethality but only to continue applying pressure onto him. As Cassius adjusted his outfit, the intention of his words became clearer and clearer until it rivaled the clarity of a window pane.

“What comes next, are you going to strike me? No? Then I suggest you pull yourself together and act like a real father for a moment.”

Lorenzo’s moment of confusion came to a full stop the moment Cassius questioned his parentage. He questioned his legitimacy. Lorenzo’s eyebrows furrowed as the young man who shared little in appearance with his father somehow appeared identical. Was this his play for this party? To pretend to be offended by slight words of warning so he could spout terrible words directed at him. To wound him deeply without leaving a scar. It would be crazy to think Calbert would subject his son to a vile familial initiation ceremony consisting of humiliating him but it was far easier than believing this young man who had little influence from his father inherited his evil.

“And to suggest that your own daughter may be nothing more than an hors d'oeuvre. How belittling. Plus, maybe I don’t want just a little taste? Maybe what I want is the full meal?”

Lorenzo’s left eye twitched as he attempted to contain himself for the very person Cassius was speaking of. He could have defended her, Charlotte. With words? With rage? Perhaps madness could take the reins? Maybe wailing and screaming to get it all out so he wouldn’t have to point his feelings toward anyone. Or maybe that was the answer? Action. Throw something? Break something… someone? Violence… that is what that would be, right? Is that what he resorted to that evening as his late wife struck him with her balled hands and all manner of things? That terrible evening of Emina’s death. Was it him? Did he snap? Did he…

…

…

…

…

…

…

…

Did he ruin his daughter’s life?

Why not? Is that not what he always does? Is that not what he’s about to do right now?

Lorenzo was truly torn. He wanted to fight for Charlotte so badly, at this very moment in any way he could! He wanted to argue! He wanted to scream! He wanted to break something! He wanted to break someone!

He wanted to cry.

Yet despite it all, he just sat there.

Lorenzo shook his head, took a deep breath, adjusted himself in his seat, and just sat there.

Ignore him. This is not the time nor the place for tears, anguish, or rage. This is Lottie’s time, this is her season, this is her age… Endure, Lorenzo. Keep her safe. Keep her happy. You promised.

“It’s an honor to sit with the best-dressed Duke in Caesonia,” said Prince Callum as arrived at the table.

"He is rather splendid, isn’t he?" Charlotte agreed.

The grand compliment from royalty at that, but the words did not seem to register completely. To appear polite, Lorenzo forced a short-lived smile. Keeping his expressions light held back the tears that yearned to escape and bring him to express how he felt. Even as Charlotte sat in the seat between himself and Cassius with excitement and ignorance, he sat calmly. It was what he wanted, right? For Lottie to make friends and socialize with her peers. To not be shackled by his poor judgment and decision-making.

“Oh, look! Shots are here!” Callum announced.

"Oh! Shots, yes—how thrilling!" Charlotte laughed delightfully. To believe something so soft and delicate could help hold himself together, to even summon that was more genuine than the last. Still…

“To the two of you, a stunning couple. And to Lord Drake, of course.” It stung, to see and hear Callum present that toast, but the swig he took from his cocktail did well in rivaling it. He noticed its potency. Perhaps he was one of the few who could scrutinize the barely noticeable unevenness of the cocktail’s mixture. A dangerous concoction he was more than willing to welcome.

Lorenzo stood up with a feigned smile and grabbed a second beverage from the server before returning to his seat. In front of Lorenzo sat his lone shot for the toast. With a slight shrug, he dumped its contents into his current cocktail.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Edward's Estate
Interaction: @princess Cassius and Charlotte
Mention: Leo, Kazumin,

As Charlotte led Lorenzo to their table, he remained quite put together on the surface but the man was slightly panicked inside. Although he was initially glad to have stood up to Calbert, a part of him was deeply terrified of the count. It had been a long time since Calbert mentioned his knowledge regarding the night of Emina’s death, but Lorenzo would be foolish to think that knowledge couldn’t be used to wring him like a wet rag and see him discarded. Even if proof was lacking, Calbert was in the good graces of King Danrose unlike himself and Lorenzo was aware there had been rumors spread about him murdering Countess Emina Vikena leading to his and Charlotte’s year-long absence from public events.

I must be more careful. His brows furrowed only slightly from his thoughts only to furrow greatly upon spotting a hand firmly on Charlotte’s waist. With his eyes now landing on Cassius and that devilish charm that seemed to be affixed to his face, Lorenzo wondered if he had been holding his daughter in such a way since the three of them had set out toward the table. Confusion and anger suddenly became acquainted in his very being but making yet another scene would have been a terrible gamble. He had just walked away from an incident unscathed after all. Despite his reluctance, Lorenzo knew he had to do something. Protecting Charlotte was one of the few things left for him to live for, and no matter how she might feel, Lorenzo could not remain idly by and allow his daughter to continue picking up strays…

Keeping his head forward, Lorenzo continued to the table, distracting himself by granting a few familiar faces a nod and a warm smile. However, his mind raced uncontrollably. And why does it have to be his son? Of all people… I mean, where in gods is Sir Smithwood? I was sure he and Lottie would match splendidly… Two mothers-in-law would be a difficult thing to deal with but… gods. Maybe the strange boy who slept in the basement? Eh… Gilbert did not have good things to say about him... An Alidasht is out of the question. They’d gift Lottie with a pet bear and murder me as their way of giving their dowry. Ughhh.

Lorenzo took his seat, his expression now worn and unexcited. I have to protect her… but I can’t be like Emina. He let out a light sigh, making peace with that thought just as Charlotte left the table to greet the guests at the table beside theirs. With a single nod, Lorenzo mentally decided it was time to confront Cassius Damien.

“Ehem!” Lorenzo scooted his chair as close as he could toward Cassius until his chair bumped up against Charlotte’s vacant seat. “Cassius, a word? I must request that you not hold Charlotte in such a way in public. I- I understand what it means to be a young handsome lad, trust me, but my daughter... My Lottie, is not a hors d'oeuvre to fancy for a fleeting moment.” Lorenzo wasn’t quite comfortable with this topic to make eye contact, but he persisted regardless knowing his daughter’s honor was on the line. She’s far more than that. Far more. And I suggest- No. You must treat her as such.” Lorenzo swallowed hard before his eyes stared right into Cassius’ with not the face of the foolish inept Duke of Vermillion. “Treat her with dignity and respect or I fear I may have to treat you like someone who deserves not an ounce of it.” His visage was that of a father who could do whatever was required to protect his daughter.

Then something unnatural gripped Lorenzo. His right hand closed into a fist as the same anger that burned so fiercely on the night he snapped at Charlotte began to surface. As if to tear away any sense of civility he desired in the brief exchange.

“Don’t fuck with my family, Damien. I will not warn you a second time, child,” Lorenzo threatened before his expression softened again as Charlotte made her way back to the table. Scooting his chair back to its place, Lorenzo smiled warmly with his task of confronting Cassius accomplished.

“Now that Lottie is back, let’s enjoy this birthday celebration. I think we should start with some spirits to loosen up some! Any suggestions? A shot and an informal toast perhaps?” Lorenzo inquired as if he hadn’t just threatened someone only seconds ago.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Edward's Estate
Interaction: @princess Calbert, Cassius
Mention: Charlotte

Lorenzo felt his body tense up as everyone in the immediate vicinity reacted to his abrupt address. Some twisted their faces, appalled. Others covered the mouths to hide their reflexive facial expressions. Lorenzo wanted so badly to just run away but his feet wouldn't budge, even as Calbert looked as if he would snatch him away from this party and crush him in his grip.

When Prince Callum surprisingly echoed his very words, initially he felt himself saved by all it did was create a moment of pause before Victoria and Calbert bore into him. Victoria criticized him with nothing he hadn't heard before. It was just the nature of their foul relationship. Lorenzo gave Gideon a few silent nods to his suggestions as he tried to deescalate the situation like a good host should. With Charlotte pulling at him, it only made sense to just walk away and take a seat as he originally planned.

Sit at a table, eat, drink. Enjoy the morning. Enjoy this splendid party in celebration of the young Drake Edwards.

“I would advise you to choose your words with more care in the future. To address my son—my blood—with such a term is not only a grave insult but also a testament to your own ignorance.”

Lorenzo frowned apologetically as Calbert finally spoke of Cassius. His eyes met the young man’s not knowing what damage he might have inflicted on him. Softy, Lorenzo attempted to ask Charlotte to let him speak to him.

“Charlotte, may I-” Lorenzo returned his attention to Calbert who was far from finished with him.

“Cassius, regardless of the circumstances of his birth, is every bit a Damien as I am. He bears my blood, my name, and my respect. You will do well to remember that.”

Lorenzo gave a single nod, keeping quiet so as to not make things worse. It was his mouth that had gotten him into this after all.

“And let us not forget, Duke, that while you so freely label my son a ‘bastard,’ you have long played the role of father to an orphan girl who isn’t even your own flesh and blood. Yet, I don’t see you making that fact public at every opportunity. Perhaps, out of respect for her, you should refrain from using such terms when speaking of a man who carries my lineage.”

Lorenzo’s mouth parted as he could not believe what Calbert had said concerning Charlotte. Sure it was an eye for an eye but Lorenzo was hardly a man of reason when it came to Charlotte. In actuality, Lorenzo was hardly ever reasonable!

Gideon and Victoria attempted to de-escalate things further, the former with his warm suggestions and the latter with her threats of removal from the party. Regardless, Lorenzo was NOT letting Calbert escape this. It didn't matter if he had what he had on Lorenzo, he would defend Charlotte.

“Count Calbert Damien! Your words don't affect me. They don't affect Charlotte… And they don't affect your relationship with Cassius either! You can believe what you want about Charlotte and I but I raised my girl… with love and action! Cassius might possibly be a great young man with plenty of potential but your blood bears no responsibility for that.” Lorenzo briefly turned to Cassius, his eyes tearing up as he was becoming emotional. “I am sorry for what I said to you, young man, truly. And I am also deeply sorry that your father believes he can equate mere moments with you to the connection I have with my daughter.” Lorenzo let loose a sigh before finally letting Charlotte take him away to the table.

Young Justice

Location: Kobra Warehouse
Interactions: The Insiders
Mentions:

---

They almost reported a true SITREP… Viktor stood impressed among his companions that had infiltrated the facility. His only concern might be their pace but their advance was too smooth for him to voice it. Slow is smooth, smooth is fast.

“Let’s move forward then. I'll take point from here on,” Viktor stated walking forward. “And to your inquiry, Quiver…” He slightly adjusted his grip on his rifle so he could prioritize using the sonic emitter attached to the weapon.“This Kobra facility is utilizing and transporting an unknown compound. All we require is a sample. And I think we should stick to that objective. Something doesn't feel right about this place.” Viktor’s visor then turned to face Pei to at least humor the pitch for the name of her restraining technique.

“Chill… pill..? Hmm… Perhaps Ashwagandha or Benzodiazepine might be better contenders.” Viktor shrugged. His reply held a neutral tone despite this being a very poor attempt at delivering sarcasm. “Anyway, let's advance. I’ll disrupt any threats inside. Just be swift in following up.”

Once the four heroes were ready, Viktor approached the door while listening for any activity on the other side of it. Nothing yet but… Even with the others taking the brunt of the attention from their enemies, Viktor found this base far too empty. He wondered if there was something else being protected deeper within the base or if this was all intended. The latter seemed unlikely due to how events had played out so far.

With a swift push, Viktor swung open the door to the large garage. It was dimly lit and filled with several vacant cargo and personnel vehicles. The area was conveniently held together by thick cement support beams and initially appeared to be empty. Unfortunately, those very beams were being used as cover for several henchmen waiting within to fire at the doorway. They were expertly hidden but a slight shift gave them away to Viktor's sharp senses.

“Take cover!” Viktor shouted as he preemptively fired his sonic emitter out toward the far side of the garage. It caused the group of henchmen to pause from firing momentarily, giving the group a short window of time to take cover.

“Quiver. Smoke?” Viktor asked as he reached into his utility belt. Whether Will had the means, Viktor would use smoke bombs to as concealment to close the distance between them and the henchmen that had ambushed them.

Young Justice

_{E P I S O D E SIX : R E F L E C T I O N S}

DIRTY BUSINESS

SOUNDTRACK

T H E E V E R G L A D E S

---

^{September 17th, 2021 | 15:33pm. | Everglades National Park, Florida}

While half of the team inside contemplated their next move, the others outside were engaged in a battle to draw the attention of the enemy forces to them. So far, it seemed to be working well, though one could say it was working too well. Daphne was attempting to close the distance between herself and the young woman sending a now massive glowing green orb in Cora’s direction. It was now bright enough to give the immediate area an unnatural green tint. While it floated toward Cora, it was still unknown what the attack could do, but it could change direction to follow its intended target. Daphne needed to move faster.

Meanwhile, the man facing Vincent, instinctively raised a hand to protect his face. Damn! He thought as he jumped and shifted his personal field of gravity so he could fly backward and out from the carbon cloud. Even though he had gotten out of such a dangerous situation, he was disappointed in the fact he could let something like that happen. His experience told him he may have just lost this but he would simply quit. This was no sparring match or honorary duel. He’d defeat his opponent by any means.

“Fire on him! He’s in the cloud!” The man shouted as he readied his hands to dish out powers if he caught even a glimpse of Vincent leaving the black cloud that continued to expand. He planned to keep his distance from it but the armed henchmen inched closer and set up a crossfire while encroaching on the cloud.

Closeby, the meta that downed Zach scoffed in disbelief.

“One hit? You mean to tell me I got lucky and hit the most worthless guy on the team? What do you even have magic for?” He laughed a little before patting the top of Zach’s tophat, the multicolored electricity now absent. “Just do everyone a favor and sit this one out, alright?” With a swift motion, he punched down onto Zach’s hat with a normal physical punch. “I’m sure your parents would rather you be a normie than getting folded like this,” he commented as he walked in the direction of the fluttering pink petals he noticed taking out many of the henchmen in the distance.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Edward's Estate
Interaction: @princess Gideon, Charlotte, Anastasia, Cassius
Mention: Wulfric, Calbert

So many pleasantries had been exchanged in such a small space in the shortest of times. As poor as Lorenzo’s tact may have been, he made sure to let the words of his enemies fall by the wayside. He told himself that he wouldn’t ruin things here and would try his damndest to keep his word. Besides, he had plenty of people to whom he was happy to give all his attention. So far, there was Gideon, who he embraced with a warm half hug to avoid staining him with salmon, and Princess Anastasia, who had ecstatically complimented his outfit after gifting Drake Edwards an orange cat that he couldn’t help but stare at.

“What an honor.” Lorenzo said, slightly caught by surprise due to his fixation on the gifted cat. Nope! Not my problem! The duke quickly shifted all of his attention onto Anastasia. “I-I find your dress equally as impressive. Pink is no stranger to either of us this morning, Your Highness.” Lorenzo pretended to adjust his collar for a little dash of flair.

The disadvantages of age… The thought trailed as he noticed Farim, giving him a friendly nod before finally considering Calbert’s words. Sure, the count wanted to see him scurry off, but right now, there was just too much traffic near this table than he was comfortable with. He had made his presence known, so it was best to find his seat and enjoy some of the free food and drink.

There was also the fact that he had just spotted Wulfric… as well as his outfit. Lorenzo raised a brow as walked away, taking in the white fabrics adorned by gold trim. Only royalty could pull off such a look of heavenly purity. Then there was the green! A message of humility as if to say “I am who I am but… I guess I could wear this at your expense today.” Lorenzo released a low sigh as he continued walking, not daring to look back at his competition. The outfit excluded, I don’t think I can face Victoria, Calbert, and Wulfric all at once.

"Fancy seeing you here, huh?" Lottie’s sweet voice stopped him in his very tracks. Lorenzo could not help but smile wide upon facing his dear stepdaughter. "I don’t suppose you’d like to join me at that empty table in just a moment? I would like to wish Lord Drake a happy birthday first…”

“Of course, Lottie. I’ll save you a seat at my side,” he said feeling warmer than ever, yet there was still more to come from the only person dear to his heart. He got ready to step off once more but Charlotte’s voice held him yet again.

“Oh, and might I add, what a lovely suit. The color complements you wonderfully."

“Oh Lottie…” he blushed.

Lorenzo couldn’t help but become giddy from the compliment, so much so that he stayed his feet long enough for Cassius Vael to greet him with more than just his best foot forward. Lorenzo almost couldn’t believe he deserved this much praise but he could not deny the strength of his outfit. He nearly glanced at Prince Wulfric but refrained so that he could maintain his pride. Lorenzo would not ruin this moment! He dared not while riding this high without the assistance of any drug! This moment! This very moment…

…was far from his control.

Cassius introduced himself…

Did he just say… “Damien” Lorenzo’s smiling face morphed to one filled with caution. Cassius Damien. Ca- Calbert Damien. The buttered words were beginning to twist in all the wrong ways. This must be… The charismatic charm with the ability to disarm so many. No, this IS…

“Count Calbert’s bastard?!” Lorenzo’s voice carried far and wide as if he had been tasked to announce the appearance of King Danrose. He quickly covered his mouth, his eyes wide. Nooooooo… gods spare me

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Vikena Estate → Edward's Estate
Interaction: @princess Victoria, Gideon, Calvert, Liliane, Crystal
Mention: Drake, Charlotte, Wulfric, Edin, Waffle Guy, and of course the Alidasht

Duke Lorenzo Vikena would be bound for Drake Edward's grand birthday party but before he could step foot out the door, he required a moment to himself. He stood tall in his party outfit, staring hard into the eyes of his reflection. The house staff had been informed he needed an undetermined amount of time in private so there would be no interruptions. In a swift motion, Lorenzo pointed at his reflection so strongly he almost thought he'd cause it to flinch before him. Instead, his visage matched his move. The moment briefly brought on the possibility that another Lorenzo was experiencing the same ruination of his reputation due to his inability to manage himself.

“You! Yes you, with the scars and that- that handsome face! No! This is serious! You! You, Duke Lorenzo Giuseppe Vikena! You and your dastardly antics! Every other event results in something awful!” Lorenzo began to scowl at himself as he gained momentum. “And fix your face, you know it to be true! Or should I remind you? Should I? The Alidasht, remember them? The ‘circus performers’ with their lions and their tigers and their heavy perfumes! Utterly disrespected! Completely! And let's not bring up the fact that you were late! I could continue with just that very evening for hours but we mustn’t ruin another gathering due to tardiness.”

Lorenzo dropped his pointed finger before he started pacing a short distance. However, he kept his eyes on his reflection, grilling himself up and down. He wouldn't say it to himself right now but he was impressed with his attire for the occasion. Instead, he shook his head with disapproval.

“Do you understand that you turned breakfast at the park into fighting at the park?! You love waffles, Lorenzo! You love them, and you made a nemesis of a man who provided them for free! Then you let that pretty prude prince who probably can’t even grow HALF the scraggly beard his father has…” Lorenzo stomped his foot and pressed his finger right up against the surface of the mirror. “You let him bully and intimidate you!” He nearly hissed the words from his mouth as he wanted to violently grab hold of his reflection. “Duke Lorenzo. Hear me now…He may be the crowned prince… but you are a grown man Lorenzo! You are his senior! And most of all, you dress better than him AND YOU AND EVERYONE ELSE KNOW IT TO BE TRUE!”

Backing up from the mirror Lorenzo nodded his head a few times, satisfied with the delivery of his words. He was finally looking away, his eyes stopping at a blank space on the green-tinted wall.

“Then you went to that dinner… I can't believe you ate that awful peanut butter and insulted that young princess. That angry young woman. She had every right to be so upset with you! To threaten you after you denied her advances! You were wearing red and sitting at the head of the table, Lorenzo! What did you think would happen when you, as a widower duke, put the color of passion on full display?! Sure, you learned from your mistakes with Morrigan, but you're the reason that the princess was sent back home and might never court again. And don't-”

There was knocking on the door! Lorenzo, startled, whipped his head toward the sound.

“Sir… is everything alright in there.” Nathaniel's voice was lathered with concern. He had tried to ignore the shouting at first due to Lorenzo's request but it almost sounded as if there was a physical altercation happening in the room.

“Eh... Everything is fine. I was just about to leave.” He said as he glared at his reflection as if to indicate that it was not off the hook and that he'd continue this rant at a later time. “Inform Benjamin that I will be at the carriage in a few minutes and ensure all of the gifts are loaded.” Lorenzo ordered through the shut door.

. . . .

After some time, Lorenzo was finally arriving at the Edwards’ estate by carriage with Drake’s gifts ready to be delivered by his very hands! Lorenzo was beaming as his eyes caught sight of the splendid decorations and attendance of many. Not only would he have options for socializing but he could also use the crowd to avoid certain people such as Count Calbert Damien and Dutchess Victoria Edwards.

“Perfect driving as always Benjamin! Be so kind as to stick around so I can give Drake the last gift. I don't want to spoil it too soon.”

“Your request is granted, sir. I shall ensure I am available for whence the time comes.”

“Good man!” Lorenzo commented as he grabbed two boxes, one under each arm, and exited the carriage wearing his usual grin. One box was wrapped red while the other was wrapped white. Both boxes were tied with pink satin, ending in a clean bow knot that complimented his pink-hued attire. Lorenzo marched to the garden with confidence, giving a firm nod to whomever met his gaze until he was able to deliver his gifts to one of the servants who took them off his hands and added them to the growing collection. Before he could truly join the party, he was given a ceramic bracelet for simply being a guest at the party. Sadly, Lorenzo stuffed the bracelet in one of his pockets to prevent it from crashing with what he was wearing. He could probably re-gift it to someone else on a separate occasion

Though he focused on looking for friendly faces, even if the man was blind, he'd know where to find his enemies. Lorenzo didn't want to have to even look at them, but this event required the courtesy of addressing the hosts, and Duke Gideon Edwards, despite his wife, was always friendly and kind to him. Besides, greeting them all together might make it easy to come and go. All he needed to do was say “Hello” and then he could go search for Charlotte.

With a half-bitten Sorian salmon ball in hand, Lorenzo approached Gideon and Victoria in the midst of the Damiens while still chewing from the bite he took. Stopping in front of Gideon, Lorenzo gave a silent nod as he gulped down the fish.

“My dear Crystal! You look absolutely wonderful this day. You never fail to make your family look splendid!” He smiled warmly before quickly turning his attention back to Gideon and Victoria. “Oh and Gideon and Victoria! My old friends in our fellow dukeness! I am very honored to be a guest at your son’s party and I aim to make sure this is a birthday he shall never forget! I promise!”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Violet
&
Alexander

2

Time: After Midnight 🦉
Location: Back Alley in the Slums
Mention: Roman @ReusableSword, Fritz/Ryn @JJ Doe, Calbert and Liliane Damien

---

Violet’s crimson eyes shot over to him as realization dawned on her. She could feel the need to cry lurking as it crept forward with each second. Instinctively her hand reached for her cheek where the sting from his hand meeting her face had occurred. Although he had hurt her, she didn't believe it to be about malice; however, her condition caused him to feel the need to do something to pull her from it. How could she subject anyone to that? Even someone as strong as Roman.

“....no,” she said softly as her hand fell from her cheek, grasping her hand for comfort as she held them against her as they walked. She fell silent again as her mind absorbed all the things he said. “My Mother or Lord Ravenwood. They…I…” she stumbled on her words. “I don't think I could for anyone in truth.”

“Violet.” Alexander's voice was absent of any sharpness as he quickly moved around her so that he could directly face her. Violet's eyes met his as he caught her off guard with his sudden change. He caught her clasped hands in his own, putting a full stop to their movement just before they entered the main throughway. She looked down at her hands as he held them. “Now do you understand why I am here with you tonight? I may not be responsible or even love you, but I know this path, and we are lucky to have found each other on it. You, Violet, can live or die however you desire but if you want to continue as we are from today onward, walk this path beside me. Give me time and I will show you that death is not the only means of freeing yourself from this nightmare.”

Taking a slow breath as it hitched in her throat she squeezed his hand as her shoulders dropped in response. Something in her eased at his proposition.

Alexander scared her; she had already seen what she could only assume was a fraction of what he was capable of, but doing this alone scared her even more. “What do you get out of this?” She pushed. “As you stated, you do not love me nor are you responsible for me. I have nothing to offer except frustrations.” Her grip on his hands relaxed as she felt the soft caress of his thumbs.

“I get an ally. Someone I can come to trust here in Sorian. Someone outside of the Black Rose Company who knows my well-kept secret. I won't ask for much except your loyalty and the assumption of a particular role to make our meetings appear more natural to the public eye.” He flashed a toothy grin. “And I'll take the frustrations. I have quite a few methods for easing those.”

She matched his toothy smile as she gave him a sly look. “I am sure you do.” she added. However, the smile faded as the rest of his words sunk in. Her face expressed her thoughts as her features softened. “I haven’t spoken your name in any relation to myself out of respect for what you did for me. You don't need to offer me this out of pity or fear that I would share your secrets.” She paused for a moment as she thought about the idea more.

“Of course not. It's merely proof of the trust between us.” Alexander gave an encouraging nod as it appeared Violet had more to say.

“What kind of role would I hold?”

“My assistant.” He shrugged simply. “It's not something your parents would be fond of, especially your father. The daughter of a count in the service of some lord holding no other title… But in theory, it would be a great way to get you outside and keep you protected while your parents focus on other matters.” His voice held a somewhat jollier tone than usual. Before he moved around her once more, returning to her side whilst placing his arm around the back of her shoulders. Violet rested her hands back in front of her as she watched his movement from the corner of her eye. As he leaned into her and with a sultry whisper she felt the hairs on her skin rise in response as he continued. “In truth, you’d perform a few tasks for me or help Lianna fetch something from a high shelf, but most of the time you'd be free to go off on your merry way without your parents sending search parties after you. Everyone wins… except your father’s ego, but I can convince your mother, which is surely enough.” Alexander was quite aware of what drove Count Damien above all else. It was, in fact, the very thing the Black Rose Company used against him.

Violet shrugged softly “I had a conversation with my mother before this outing. She already assured me my privacy and free choice. She has little say in what I do, and she can twist my father any way she pleases,” Her tone seemed to drop when she spoke of them. “You would have little issue. Regardless of what they feel, my mother is trying to keep me safe. She will do anything to ensure that.”

Perfect.

Taking a deep breath she bit her lip as she thought. After a moment, a smile spread on her lips, exposing her toothy grin as her crimson eyes moved to greet his. “I accept, on one condition. You buy the drinks tonight.” The pair laughed together at the proposal and they finally took a step into the throughway.

“Of course, Scarl- Violet. As my employee, it would be uncouth not to.”

She looked at him with an uncomfortable expression. “Feels weird you referring to me as anything other than Scarlett at this point. Perhaps when in public for image purposes.” She smiled. “Outside of that…I can just be Scarlett,” a cheeky grin spread on her lips. “...Sir.” She dipped her head as if to gesture to his new station.

So very perfect.

Alexander would continue to lead Violet to the establishment of his choosing, coming upon a humble tavern. It lacked the popularity of the Tough Tavern, but that's exactly what Alexander wanted. Upon entering, the few pairs of eyes inside affixed to them, especially upon Violet’s form.

“Harvey.” Alexander greeted the elderly bartender with a nod whilst pointing to a vacant table close to the bar

“Welcome back, sir… and greetings to you madam.” He couldn't help noticing those red irises of hers. Those same crimson rings inspected the man for a moment before Violet gave him a soft smile and a nod “Good evening.” She responded with a soft tone.

“Open a tab, would you?” Alexander requested as he noticed how light the tavern was with customers. “And go ahead and add the rest of the patrons here to it. Drinks are on me tonight!” He declared as he pulled back one of the chairs of the vacant table for Violet. There was a faint cheer or two after Alexander’s generous declaration.

Violet accepted the seat and made herself comfortable leaning against it and removing the hood from her hair. Normally, she wouldn’t be so open with her appearance, keeping herself sheltered from people's glances and whispers due to her scars. However, with Alexander, she didn’t feel the need to mask who she was. “I don't think I’ve been to this tavern before,” she noted, looking around.

“Really? And I'm supposed to be the newcomer here in Sorian…” He chuckled. “Then again, someone such as yourself would hardly find herself in an establishment like this one.” Alexander held two fingers up for Harvey. “The usual, Harvey,” Alexander requested, barely looking his way. “Scarlett…” He let the name float in the space between them.

Violet sat back in her chair as she rested her hands on her lap, her red eyes fixated on Alexander. Breaking the moment with a small shrug, choosing to ignore his choice of name. “Well, my nose was always pressed into books. My parents kept my sister and I under tight observation. My movements were very restricted for obvious reasons.”

“Makes sense.”

Harvey came over to the table, placing two glasses between them; he didn’t acknowledge Alexander and simply slipped back into his bar, tending to another patron.

“It’s been an adjustment” she added, reaching for one of the glasses and taking a small sip. She cringed slightly at the strength of the drink before looking back at him as he took a sip himself. “What is this?” She held back a giggle while clearing her throat from its burn.

“Gin. With a squeeze of lime or lemon. Whatever Harvey has more of tonight. Perhaps you've read a story mentioning the drink,” he teased. “I can have him fetch something else if you'd like… or do you only prefer the warm elixir now?” He posed the question with a raised eyebrow.

Her eyes flitted cautiously around the dimly lit room, scanning for any eavesdroppers before settling back on Alexander.

“No… this is fine. I don’t mind the burn,” she murmured, her voice low and almost a purr. “I usually prefer whiskey, but this... this is a nice change.” Her lips curved into a subtle, almost secretive smile, a hint of something dark flickering in her gaze. “As for my other tastes... if I were to sit and really consider what I'm doing, maybe I wouldn’t. But that’s like eating a steak and thinking too much about the cow.”

Her finger glided along the rim of the glass, the long, sharp nail—perfectly coated in black polish—causing the glass to emit a soft, eerie hum. The sound lingered in the air, adding to the tension that seemed to coil around them.

“Is it awful of me to admit that I do?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes refusing to meet his.

Never, but...

“The idea of a supplier is intriguing, but I think I’ve become more of a hunter in my free time.” Her eyes finally lifted, the deep crimson orbs locking onto his, searching, probing for his reaction. “The only part that I dislike is feeling like I've lost myself to it.”

“Get used to it. Losing yourself is what lies in wait, Scarlett.” Alexander delivered the harsh truth without sparing the exceptions to the mentioned fate. He raised his glass to face, preparing for another taste as he continued. There was a hint of a smile that crept upon his lips, indicating his desire to tease the girl further.

“And hunt? Seriously? You really are Calbert’s child… Do you just aim to go out there and find the first vulnerable creature you can lay eyes on? You'll be hung in the square in a month’s time.” He scoffed and took a swig.

Her brow arched, a sinister glint in her eye as her finger traced slow, deliberate circles around the rim of her glass.

“If you think me Calbert's child, then you know I am far from foolish. Although my father has made some stupid decisions, he has continued thriving on his own for a reason.” She lifted the glass taking a measured sip. “The ones I've targeted are nothing but vermin. Though I admit, it hasn’t been easy to conceal the aftermath… but I doubt anyone will truly mourn their absence.”

“Ah…” Alexander played along as if her words were convincing, allowing her to speak uninhibitedly for a time. A nerve had been struck.

A shadow passed over Violet’s face as her mind flickered back to the man who dared to assault her, the memory a lingering stain on her thoughts. His hands grabbing at her, tearing at her clothes. She pulled herself from the memory. “Honestly, I’m just doing the world a favor.” She took another drink, the fire in her eyes dimming slightly. Her voice dropped as she seemed to relax her shoulders. “Yet, I still wrestle with these emotions… It feels wrong to voice them aloud, to acknowledge this monster I've become.” She finished her drink, and before she could put the glass down, Harvey had arrived with a fresh glass, taking her empty one and leaving once again. Alexander was busy looking into his half-empty glass, softly swirling the contents with the slight rotation of his wrist.

“Because you continue to lie to yourself. Do yourself a favor and stop coping. You don't do anything to help anyone. You're not on some crusade and you didn't choose this. Monster or vermin, you're just trying to do what every other fucking person in this world does… Remain in the game and play with the hand you're dealt the best you possibly can.” Alexander took a quick swig from his glass. “Right now, you have a shit hand. So whatever you choose to do, play it smart, or else you might as well toss your cards and tie the noose yourself.”

Rolling her eyes with a heavy, exasperated sigh, she bit back with a voice laced with venom, her words dripping with disdain. “My, aren’t we on a high horse this evening…”

Her gaze was cold as she peered over the rim of her freshly poured glass, the liquid inside swirling as she moved her hand. “Don’t sit there and spew all that nonsense. I guarantee you had your fair share of justifications when you first became what you are. No matter how this life chose you, anyone would struggle with the adjustment.” She leaned back in her chair, taking a slow sip, savoring the burn as it went down. “Your ability to be empathic is truly astounding.” Her voice dripped with sarcasm, cutting through the tension in the room. “Do you think I’m not painfully aware of this?” She gestured sharply with her hand, frustration etched deep in her features. “I thought I could confide in a friend, someone who claims to understand, only to be met with nothing but brash insults.” Her words hung in the air like a dark cloud as she turned her gaze to the corner of her eye, her expression a storm of barely contained anger and bitterness.

“It’s the truth, Scarlett. I spew this nonsense so that you may avoid the missteps made by those who came before you. If it’s coming off as harsh then…” Alexander suddenly winced as if he had been faced with a bright light or sharp sound. He averted his gaze before briefly blinking and shaking away whatever had befallen him. “...then I can adjust, I guess,” he said begrudgingly before finishing off his glass.

Her gaze shifted to him, cutting through the silence like a blade, just as he abruptly stopped speaking. Her brow furrowed, confusion mingling with the dim light that cast long shadows across the table. His sudden change in tone unsettled her, like a distant rumble of thunder before a storm.

“You still don’t get it, do you?” she murmured, her voice tinged with an edge that matched her frustrations. Concern flickered in her eyes, but it was quickly masked by a deeper intensity as she leaned forward with her arms resting on the cold surface of the table. Her gaze bore into him, searching, pleading with words unspoken.

“I…” she began, the word hanging in the air like a whispered confession. She hesitated, the truth clawing at her from within, but she swallowed it back, her throat tightening around the admission she couldn’t bring herself to voice.

“You..?” He slightly leaned in toward her while wisely using this time to slip his ring onto his finger beneath the table.

“I don’t wish you to change,” she finally breathed, her voice barely above a whisper, yet laced with a truth that felt like a heavy burden. It wasn’t what she wanted to say, but it was all she could offer. “Life is harsh, and so is the reality of it, but… sometimes, I just need help navigating through the darkness. Just… someone to talk to.”

There.

Her eyes dropped to the glass in her hands, the liquid inside reflecting the flicker of dim light as she took a long, steady drink as if to drown the words she wished she had the courage to say. “To remind me I’m not crazy,” she added, her voice falling to a near whisper, tinged with a sadness that lingered in the air.

“It’s selfish of me, I suppose,” she continued, her tone heavy with resignation. “You have your wife and all your… responsibilities. You don’t need to be weighed down by my insecurities.”

“It’s fine, Scarlett. I may have overreacted a tad. Apologies,” Alexander offered with a warmer expression. At the same moment, Harvey refilled his glass. “Much thanks Harvey,” he said as he grabbed his glass.
Violet leaned back in the chair “And what was that just a minute ago..Are you okay?” she inquired, unable to ignore it. Alexander had just finished taking a sip when he raised an eyebrow to her question. He was quite ready to gaslight her but stopped himself just before letting loose his tongue. It was a tad too soon for that.
“You caught that, huh? Observant. I truly admire those eyes of yours.” Alexander gazed into the deep red, almost forgetting to answer her question. “It’s a bothersome side effect of a…” he mouthed the word “spell” with a smile.
Blinking her eyes, Violet stared at him, her gaze sharp and probing, as if trying to decipher the dark transformation she had just witnessed. A spell? What kind of spell? His demeanor had shifted violently, morphing from the familiar Dr. Jekyll to a monstrous Mr. Hyde within the span of a heartbeat.
“What you were saying before…” The words caught in her throat, her apprehension manifesting in a stutter as she attempted to mask her confusion and curiosity. Alexander was already raising an eyebrow in perplexity as he continued to drink his gin. “Do you agree with it now? Word for word, in tone and delivery…? Or would you deliver it differently?” The question was laced with a barely concealed desperation, an attempt to uncover whether there was a hidden switch.
“What? What are you on about? I already apologized for the overreaction.” Alexander shook his head and grinned. “You can rub it in all you like if that's what you want.”
Looking at him for a moment she smiled softly in response “No, of course not. I think the gin is stronger than expected.” She looked at her cup for a moment, her mind still spinning with questions that she attempted to silence with another sip of her drink. “You don’t need to apologize, I’m sure it comes from experience.” She offered him a reassuring smile.
“It’s more like… hmm… how should I put it?” Alexander mused. “I had made a few observations about you that concerned me. Then I doused my worry with harshness which didn't help the situation in the slightest.”
“What exactly are the concerning observations?”
“Well, I can't be completely open about them here but I'm sure you can follow along.” He shot her a playful wink. “Based on what we've discussed, you have an almost insatiable desire for me. You seem to need me almost daily. You can't simply have just some of me. You desire all of me, yes? And-” He chuckled. “Perhaps that isn't the best example. Forgive me.”
She suppressed a smile, the humor behind his analogy not escaping her. Deciding to indulge in his game, she leaned forward, the shadows dancing across her face, highlighting the predatory glint in her crimson eyes. Her lips curved into a wicked, toothy smile.
“Yes…” she purred, her voice a sultry whisper that seemed to caress the very air between them. Her gaze locked onto his, unblinking, her eyes narrowing like a hunter sizing up its prey. “Every. Last. Inch..." she continued, drawing out the words, each syllable dripping with dark temptation. Alexander could only wear his smile.

“I know it’s wrong... but..." she leaned in closer, her finger tracing a slow, deliberate path around the rim of her glass. “I want what I want,” she murmured, her voice a velvet snare, thick with desire and a hint of something more dangerous. Every word was enunciated with a slow, deliberate precision, making her intent unmistakably clear.

“What. You. Want. Aaand that is exactly what I'm stuck on.” Her advance left him unmoved yet there was no hint of aversion to Violet. It was simply a matter of his self-control. “Does the spry mink need to feed every night or is it just something she desires? A much better example, I think.” He took up his glass once more.

Leaning forward, she dragged her glass closer, her fingers tracing its rim as her eyes drifted into the void, searching desperately for an elusive truth. How could she possibly convey the agony it brought her—the torment, the relentless craving—and yet the twisted relief that washed over her when it was finally sated?

Her voice, barely above a whisper, trembled as she spoke, "I’m not sure It even knows the full answer to that." The fleeting smile she offered was quickly overshadowed by a shadow of concern, her expression darkening like storm clouds rolling in. "It starts with this sick feeling," she continued, her voice cracking under the weight of her confession. " Then the obsessive thoughts come, the rage... the uncontrollable aggression."

Her head dipped as if crushed by the shame that weighed heavily upon her shoulders. "It feels like an affliction," she admitted, "that can only be soothed by indulging. It doesnt even want to imagine what would happen if it didn’t give in—the physical pain is unbearable."

With a flicker of despair, her gaze rose from the glass, meeting his with raw vulnerability, the walls she had carefully constructed crumbling in his presence. To think all he was doing was sitting there, carefully listening, his neutral expression unable to betray the many gears in motion within his mind. "I’m terrified this is only the beginning of its symptoms" she confessed, her eyes shutting tight as the monster within her stirred, lurking just beneath the surface, whispering sinister promises into her ear. It was a constant, haunting reminder of its presence.

She inhaled deeply as if summoning the courage to keep the beast at bay, before downing the rest of her drink in a single, desperate gulp. "It scares me," she breathed, her voice so soft that only he could hear, her eyes locking into his with a fear that mirrored that of a frightened child.

Before she could speak further, Harvey appeared beside them with another drink. She glanced at him, forcing a soft, strained smile, before retreating into her seat, the momentary reprieve doing little to quell the feeling "The bear," she said hoping he would understand her comparison of Roman, "has already fallen victim to the Affliction but thankfully it was a fleeting moment for it." she admitted shamefully.

“Bear? Hmm… that's one way to describe him, I guess.” Alexander's tone should have been lighter but Violet confirming the abnormal severity of her bloodthirst left him somewhat disturbed. He was aware it was greater than usual, but he figured it was part of some kink or just slightly off. However, her bloodthirst seemed to match someone under the curse for some decades. “And I assume a fleeting moment isn't enough. Now do you understand my concern, especially with your preferred methods of getting what you need? Why I became worried and upset?”

“I understood it from the start, but your tone doesn’t fix things. Getting upset won't fix this." She sighed "I’m not sure what will. Maybe the noose like you suggested." It was clear by her expression that it was something she had contemplated for a long time. "I did receive a rather interesting proposal from an unsuspecting party. I don't know if the proposal would be very safe considering the situation with the Bear. This would be more, scheduled. Exchange of sorts." She hoped he could read between the lines. “I denied it but the offer was left on the table. Perhaps that is a solution but I'm not sure that it would be enough. What if….the proposal ends permanently?" She shook her head softly "Rats are disposable. This wouldn’t be the same."

“Enough dead rats create a scene, Scarlett. And I doubt you're some divine judge. Some rodents come in packs, have litters. Others might be bigger than you perceive them to be.” He leaned in with his eyes wide. “Every day means catching one of them without a witness. That will not last as a primary means. You have two. Two others who know the truth outside of your family. Use them and endure whatever pain you experience…” Alexander sighed as he sat back and readied himself to present the other option. “And if… If you don't wish to do things that way, I can assist you in forfeiting from this grand game. It would be painless, quick. A mercy, I promise.” His voice was barely above a whisper now.

Thoughts raced through her mind as his words hit her to her core. She sat in silence taking in all that he said. She didn’t have a jab or a remark to make. His offering to end her life so effortlessly and emotionless sent another hit to her belly. She found herself in constant reminders of just how calculating Alexander was. So displaced.

In the end, none of that mattered when his words held so much truth. "Can’t have your new employee go missing on the first day..." She offered him a soft, defeated smile before taking a sip of her new drink. “I guess I have some people to reach out to.”

“Do what you must, Scarlett,” Alexander commented using a phrase he used regularly. He could only give Violet the smallest of smiles. However small, it was a warm one hinting at the small spark of optimism he might be feeling. Yet as genuine as it seemed, there was so much lurking behind it.