Helo

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Night Sola 23, 1739

Callum & Riona Part 3

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Callum used the walk to the palace to relay the events of Roman’s ceremony to Riona. An almost coherent, and greatly embellished, story, with brief tangents about owl-men wearing spooky coats, his thoughts on fire, and Roman turning into a bear. “And I swear, hand to the Gods, Roman lifted like eight men off the ground and tossed them into the forest.” He continued, talking of the guards who interrupted the ceremony and the missing Violet Damien; who Cal suspected had just run away from home for some peace, or ditched her father’s party, both things he could understand.

Then he explained how he’d tried to spin the incident as a Lorenzo-level screw-up, and tried to have the city guards name Calbert as responsible, but it turned out to be Countess Damien who had given the order. Still, he’d gotten them to admit, loudly enough for all who attended the ritual to hear it, that House Damien carried little for respecting the sacred traditions of foreign guests.

“And Munir, Ana, and Ari, all helped order the guards to leave. And…” He paused for a moment, almost adding in how they made those guards leave their boots behind too. He looked away as he continued. “I think enforcing the belief that Sorian continues to disrespect its allies, is a small step in weakening those alliances.”

He left out the part about the boots, mostly because there was a gleeful pride in having all those guards follow a ridiculous order simply because he ordered it. He had reveled in a small taste of having that kind of power; it would take more than drugged tea and a shared bottle to get him to admit that aloud. Once he’d finished his tale, he asked how the Damien party had gone.

“Wait, wait, wait. Back up. Excuse me? A bear!?” Riona stared at Callum, wide eyed. “Cal, you did not just say Lord Roman shapeshifted into a bear… in front of the royal guards?” Unless she missed an important detail, that meant Lord Ravenwood was about to find himself burnt at the stake for witchcraft.

“No, no shapeshifting, he was still Roman-shaped. And already wearing the bear skeleton. But he definitely turned into a bear. Riona, he roared and it sounded like it sounded like so many different things all at once. Incredible. I think the guards thought it was all drugs and drinking and weird Varian customs, but it was magic. Old magic, before books.” Callum spoke with absolute certainty.

“He roared and it sounded like so many different things all at once. “... Like spirits coming together...” Riona thought out loud. Old magic indeed. “For his sake, let’s hope the guards did think it was all drugs and drinking and weird Varian customs… Did you know Lord Roman practiced magic?”

“Yes and no. I know he believes in the old ways, long-standing Varian traditions of honoring their gods, and there’s magic in that. But different from the magic they’ve banned. I’m not sure what, exactly, Roman did tonight, but he did it right under their noses.” He still needed to talk to Roman, tonight had not been the right time, but now they had a lot more to discuss.

“Think the Caesonian magistrates or judges care about that? They’ve burned people just because they did ‘evil rituals’ for a deity they didn’t recognize.” A fresh concern slithered through her gut, coiling around the knot of worry already nestled there. “The Thornbreakers might use that…” she said. “I know you picked Lord Roman as ‘the person you hold dear’ because he won’t be easy to harm… but… there’s more than one way to get to him you know? … Don’t doubt the Thornbreakers will do anything to win.”

“We protect our own and our insurances,” Cal repeated what Quack had told him. “I have not betrayed them, they won’t betray me. That was the deal so unless you’re about to tell me that Quack is a liar, I’m trusting him and the rest of the Thornbreakers.” Callum spoke confidently, he wasn’t going to start doubting them now.

“No,” she sighed, “I don’t think Quack is a liar, I’m just less sure about the rest… Even more reason why you need to win their confidence as soon as possible.”

“As for the courts, Roman had the crown’s permission for his ceremony tonight. He, and his family, are beloved in Varian, with powerful friends here and from Alidasht. Coming after Roman over this would be deeply stupid, even for Edin. Especially given how poorly things are going with Alidasht.” He was less confident about this, but he was sure that there were a lot of people who would not stand idle if anyone tried to send Roman to a pyre.

“Somehow, I really doubt they thought the ceremony involved literally summoning spirits when they approved it. Besides…” Riona’s eyes became distant. She felt the phantom heat of fire against her skin. The pain of the blade. Screams from the past echoed in her head. “Being popular doesn’t protect you from so-called ‘misfortunes’.” The heat and screams receded as she dragged herself back to the present moment. But the pain lingered—a dull, throbbing reminder.

“And if being a foreign noble is really enough to get away with things that would land other people, even nobles, in trouble… the Crowns’ gonna have to deal with a very different kind of problem.” As amusing as Riona found the image of the King and Queen scrambling to maintain even a veneer of authority while simultaneously attempting to appease everyone, lest their rule be seen as feckless and spineless. She added, “I’m not so sure how much trouble Varian and Alidasht are willing to go through to protect just one noble either, beloved or not… Not unless they want to start serious sh*t with Caesonia. Who knows? They might even give him up as a peace offering.”

He didn’t like the way she said ‘misfortunes,’ it sent a cold chill through him. “Mina was part of it too.” He mumbled, nearly tripping over his own feet as he thought about how many of Roman’s men, and their shaman, were also part of the ritual. He wanted to point out how that was too many people to go after and wasn’t the point of these summers to strengthen alliances between them all. But he could guess at what that distant look in Riona’s eyes meant. And if they’d murdered a whole town before what would stop them from another massacre?

“So maybe they’ll try. They won’t succeed.” Perhaps he was too flippant, but he had prevented one execution; Darryn’s, and he could stop another.

For a span, she said nothing, fingers toying with the ends of her hair until she broke the stillness, abashed. “Hey, sorry if I put a pall over things.” She barked a laugh, “You’re supposed to be the brooding, melancholic one, not me. And here I am, dredging up worst-case scenarios and stealing your thunder. Next I’ll be composing poetry and wandering in the rain to wash away some fraction of my misery. Hm, maybe that’ll attract my own cabal of admirers.” Her lips quirked. “You got yourself some competition, Cal.”

“You make me sound tragically maudlin.” Even as he said it, his words came out like a long whine. Cabal of admires, Cal snorted at that.

“Maybe I should take a break from being the broody pessimist and let you take over. It is less fun when it’s not raining.” He offered, smiling more as the sense of dread slowly faded. “Fair warning, don’t brood too much or it’ll Calcify on you.” That earned a snort and an eye roll from Riona.

She softened then, “I don’t mean to discourage you.” Riona’s fingers found his arm, giving it a squeeze she hoped would lodge her next words deep. “You’ve shown you are capable of protecting people. Saved a life already, haven’t you? And things could’ve gone much, much worse at the ceremony if not for you.”

“If Lord Roman…” she paused and added, “or Lady Mina, or any of the many people that were there, find themselves in deep trouble, you’ll be there to save them again.” Cal’s mumblings about Lady Blackwood held a defiant spark, as if she’d struck a nerve with the dire possibilities she voiced. Riona should’ve been offended that he thought her concerns were overblown. But she wasn’t. What he showed was the stubbornness of one resolved to fight and confidence that he would win. Positivity.

“No, you're right. I can’t work for Quack and ignore hard questions. I hadn’t considered they might see more going than just a strange Varian ceremony.” He paused for a moment, and all of that sank in. “But I’ll worry about that tomorrow. Tonight I’m only worrying about finding whatever they’re trying to hide and not getting caught.”

She nodded and changed subject to the disappearance of Count Calbert’s eldest daughter. “I’m surprised to hear about Lady Violet though. The masquerade ball was… peaceful, all things considered. You’d think the host’s child going missing would’ve caused some ruckus or gotten the whole thing canceled the second they noticed.”

“I’m sure Calbert just cares more about his image than his children. He’s not alone in that.”

“Yeah… with how much he loves his family I guess I thought he’d make a bigger deal out of it.” Riona shrugged and sighed.

“Does he? I heard he’d been hiding a secret son out in the country.” Cal pointed out, having heard all sorts of whispers on the subject. “Fortunate for us he didn’t end his party early.” He added.

“Why’s that?”

“To keep at least some of the family distracted.” He replied. “Wulfy’s been especially watchful of me.” And his eldest brother saw through his games. Callum believed Edin thought he was just an idiot, that Alibeth would still fall for the sad youngest child routine, and most of the guards thought he was just a drunk who enjoyed being difficult; Wulfric fell for none of it.

The mention of Prince Wulfric made her frown. She took a deep breath, cooling her blood to prevent it from boiling. “Is it weird that I have a feeling that a party won’t be enough to stop him from keeping an eye on you? He has eyes and ears everywhere after all.”

“Maybe we could turn him into a frog, he’d hate that.” Callum suggested, mostly joking.

Unlike Riona who mostly wasn’t when she said, “Maybe we should. It’d make things a little easier for us, that’s for sure.”

There was a pause before she confessed. “I… had a conversation with him at the party. It didn’t go well… Like super bad.”

“Sounds like Wulfy.” He tried to remember a conversation with his eldest brother that had gone well. The best he’d gotten was a mutual agreement that neither wanted the other one dead. “How bad? You’re not in trouble are you?” He asked, holding back the question of why she’d even want to talk to Wulfric in the first place.

“Uh…” Riona’s gaze skittered away from him. Her fingers fretted the fabric of her apron. “So… I told him that he’s a monster just like his parents. I hope his reign never comes and if it does I hope it’s short?” A tight smile corseted her lips as she casted a guilty look in Cal’s direction. It lingered a moment before falling away, her shoulders crumpling inward. “I thought I saw him with someone I recognized. Someone who should be dead. I wanted to see if Wulfric knew who he was so I asked him. He didn’t give me much, and… I basically ended up telling him that his parents were involved with the destruction of my hometown. He wanted details, and I said if he really cared, he’d dig them up himself… Then reveal what he finds to the public.”

Cal had to snicker at that. “Reckless and impulsive, you really are stealing my thunder. Wish I could’ve seen his face when you told him that.” He paused, wondering how even disguised Riona managed to say all that to Wulfric and not get thrown into a dungeon. “So was Wulfy just, what, frozen in shock?

She shrugged because, well, he was right: reckless and impulsive summed it up nicely. The anonymity afforded by the masks emboldened her, sure, but accosting the bloody Crown Prince? Now that was f***ing stupid.

But there was more to it than just feeling brave behind a mask. In that white-hot moment, she had recognized that seething rage, the bone-deep hatred that racked her body whenever the curse stirred, and the spell was one ragged breath from activating. Could the ritual of the Solstice Ceremony have kicked up ripples far beyond the woods, amplifying the sensitivity of that which she carried?

—No. Maybe? These past few days have been strange. Her fuse felt shorter than usual. It was getting harder to keep it all hidden. It could be a sign that she had little time left.

“If by ‘frozen in shock’ you mean an icy glare that promises to slit my throat the next time we meet, then yes, he was as frozen as the heart of winter itself.”

“Who did you see that you recognized?” He asked.

“Family.” Although that didn’t really narrow it down since the townspeople were like family. “Or possibly a distant relative of one. Either way I don’t want to put them in danger because they’re obviously doing well… I just… wanted to know if… there’s any chance that I’m not the only one who survived.”

Since there was still a possibility that Cal’s brother might try to get rid of her, Riona said. “Wulfric recognized me, with a mask, from before the slaughter.” A derisive snort. “I worked at the castle for over a decade and he recognized the girl, not the maid… I don’t know if I should consider myself lucky or not… Point is, if he was able to recognize the girl, then he’ll eventually put two and two together and figure out the maid was once that girl.”

“Wait,” He paused, taking a moment to wrap his head around new information. “Was Wulfric there when your town was murdered or he knows about it?” He asked, but either way, Wulfric was fine with keeping it a secret to protect the family. Callum’s stomach suddenly ached, a pit of dread knowing that this would always be his eldest brother’s stance. “And you should avoid Wulfy, and if things don’t work out, you’ve still got an inside man willing to plot a jailbreak.”

Riona whirled around, palms raised in a mollifying gesture. “No.” Odd, sticking up for Wulfric, but the thought of misleading Callum felt wrong. “We met years before that. And I don’t think he actually knew what happened, even if he had his suspicions.”

The memory of their conversation resurfaced in her mind. “Believe it or not, there are truths the general public is not ready for – not at the present time, and perhaps, not until many years in the future.” “But… he did make it crystal clear he’s got no intention of revealing secrets that don’t serve his own interests.”

“We intend to reveal secrets that don’t serve his interests.” He pointed out. “And one day I expect we’ll call each other enemy rather than brother.” He shrugged, not because he did care but because that outcome felt inevitable.

“... Yeah,” was really all she could say to that. The two walked in silence for a while before Cal broke the silence.

“If you think about it,” Cal decided he needed to change the subject.“I have ensured a perfect cover story if we do get caught. I am clearly on something, again, and you are dutifully ensuring I neither injure myself, again, or cause any significant property damage.” Better to get a cover story ready just in case. At least he sounded much more coherent than he felt.

“Right.” Riona teased, “What you’re saying is that’s exactly what’s happening so no need for a cover story?”

“Exactly, nothing else going on here.” The palace loomed in the distance, a far more persistent source of unwelcomed feelings than the hut but far less intense. “Kitchen entrance?” He asked once they were near the palace, if they were being sneaky he guessed the main entrance was out. Riona agreed.

TLDR

Callum and Riona head to the castle for some snooping. They discuss Roman turning into a bear during his ceremony and the possibility that Roman (and maybe Mina) might catch some heat for their ritual. Riona shares her conversation with Wulfric at the ball, including insulting the crowned prince to his face!

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Rohit Amar

Rohit Amar | 23 | Male

Get Lucky - Daft Punk

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Appearance

Height: 6’3
Weight: 205 lbs
Eye Color: Deep brown
Hair Length/Texture: Medium length, wavy
Hair Color: Black
Skin Color: Light Brown
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): None
Distinguishing features: Being handsome
Clothing Preferences: Bright colors, flowing fabrics, and wearing just enough gold/jewels for it to be a little too much.

---

Psychology

Likes:
-Gardens
-Hookah lounges, tea houses, taverns - Anywhere he can meet interesting people
-Art, beauty, music
-Wild parties and extravagant feasts
-Keeping life as fun as possible

Dislikes:
-Conflict; a friendly spar is a good time but anything with malice, he’s out
-Being alone
-Anything too serious

Sexuality:
-Bisexual

Hobbies:
-Partying
-Swordsmanship
-Meeting new people
-Anything that sounds fun

Life Goals/Dreams:
To have a good time, make exceptional memories, and regret nothing.

Personality Summary:

An extreme optimist; for Rohit, his glass is not merely half full, his cup runneth over with fine wine. To him, the world is a wondrous and beautiful place, with so many things to explore and learn about, so many interesting people to meet, and even bad luck turns around with time. Not that he’s ever had bad luck, good fortune seems to cling to Rohit. Though he possesses a kind-hearted and gentle nature, his noble upbringing makes it difficult for him to understand, or truly relate, to hardships. It takes a lot to bring his mood down and he will choose to look for common ground or a sufficient compromise when conflict arises. Rohit seeks to understand, to know as much about the world as he can, and hopes that one day he’ll be at least half as wise as his father.

Rohit is a wandering dreamer. Often too caught up in whatever has caught his attention to be punctual and easily led astray by curiosity and the allure of new experiences. He knows his promises are flimsy at best, and thus rarely makes them. Having grown up accustomed to the finer things, he enjoys indulging in all that makes life worth living and ensuring those around him have the same opportunity. A generous people pleaser, Rohit will do just about anything to make sure those around him share his joy, because sad people make him sad, and who wants that?

---

Background

Current occupation:
Known throughout Kimoon as a wild free spirit whose scandals are easily overshadowed by his charity work* and philanthropy.

*(most of the actual work part is done by a team of people but Rohit does make sure his projects happen and are well funded)

Any past occupations?:
None

Relatives:
Navi Amar, Vali of Kimoon - Father
Aisha Amar - Mother

Skills:
-Physically fit
-Being oblivious to anything too serious
-Talking to people
-Seems to be naturally blessed with good luck

History Summary:

The Astral Arcana truly blessed Rohit, not only with noble birth but in the care of the kindest and most patient people he knows, his parents. Raised by scholars, Rohit inherited their curiosity about the world but lacked their discipline in studying. He’d rather explore outside than study things from the pages of a book, he’d rather hear people talk about the things they knew than stare at words on a page. Rohit hated being still, hated being alone for too long, hated when things were too quiet.

His parents were endlessly patient and his every whim was encouraged and supported. When he showed interest in music, musicians were brought in to instruct him, when his parents noted he enjoyed touring Kimoon’s gardens, botanists were brought in to teach him about plants, and Rohit once noted that the stars looked ‘pretty cool,’ and a telescope was purchased the next day. His interests always flared and burned out, but his parents always supported learning something new. His childhood was near idyllic; surrounded by luxury but raised to appreciate it all as a blessing.

When his father was made Vali of Kimoon, life only became more exciting. There were even grander opportunities; better tutors and mentors, bigger feasts and elaborate parties, and meeting people from all over Alidasht. He was more than happy to support his father’s new role; socializing at events and engaging in charity work for Kimoon, strengthening the family image. Even with Rohit’s occasional scandal, it was easy for the Amar family to look good when the last Vali was executed for embezzlement and treason. His good deeds and eagerness to spend time with citizens always outshined any trouble he found himself in.

Rohit jumped at the chance to travel to Caesonia for the summer but arrived late due to his instance of stopping at every interesting port along the way. There was only so much time Rohit could spend on a ship before he grew restless, the frequent stops were necessary.

---

---

Q&A

Questionnaire

History
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
“Nurtured, my parents are lovely people.”

When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
“Sanctuary? I would just seek counsel from my dad, wisest man I know. Life’s too short to spend it upset, best to remedy the situation and move on.”

What were you like in your teenage years?:
“Happy, wild, and free. Just as I am now.”

How close are you to your parents?:
“Very close, we get along well and I value their insights.” Rohit’s answer lacks the confidence of his previous ones. For a second he wonders if his parents secretly wished for a scholarly son, one more suited to follow in his father's footsteps. His smile soonreturns and the thought vanishes as the next question is asked.

Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
“No…and who would want to discuss that?”

What advice would you give your younger self?:
“Rohit, I know books are boring. So, so, boring, but we must try and read them. Or pay someone to read them to us. It is the only way to keep up with the conversations at family dinner.”

Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
“Obedient; my parents upheld no frivolous rules, everything was explained so that I understood the why of it and how I was to act. This makes it easy to respect their wishes. …But a little more defiant in my teen years.”

What is your biggest regret?:
“None, next question.”

Romance
Have you ever been in love? :
“All the time, it’s a fleeting feeling though isn’t it? Comes and goes like rain.”

What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
“Only one? I guess they’d need to have everything. Kind, fun, passionate about something, and good to look at.”

How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
“With affection, however the other person prefers it.”

Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
“You’d have to get me drunk to pull that story out.”

Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
“Yes, people claim it, and who am I to question if they mean it.”

What does marriage mean to you?:
“Being tied to one person, which is fine, if that’s what you want.”

Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
“Every pretty face in front of me.”

Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
“Probably, in the distant, distant future. Far past where my current plans extend to.”

Personality

Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
“Brunch at the Enchanted Garden! Have you been? There are glowing mushrooms on the trees and food you cannot find anywhere else. Everyone should go at least once. It’s very relaxing after a good Saturday night.”

What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
“Kind.” Rohit did not feel a need to expand on that answer.

What bad habits do you have?:
“I don’t think I have any.”

If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
“I’d try harder with my studies, maybe try and read a couple of books in front of my parents, I think they’d like that.” Rohit shifts uncomfortably at this question, hoping the next one is lighter.

What is your greatest fear?:
“That’s a dark question! Being eaten by a tiger? That sounds bad, let’s go with that.”

What are your pet peeves?:
“Who wants to worry about other’s habits?”

When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
“With others, people who can cheer me up.”

Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
“Neither, I prefer to look for common ground.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Rohit Amar

Rohit Amar | 23 | Male

Get Lucky - Daft Punk

---

Appearance

Height: 6’3
Weight: 205 lbs
Eye Color: Deep brown
Hair Length/Texture: Medium length, wavy
Hair Color: Black
Skin Color: Light Brown
Facial details(freckles, moles, etc): None
Distinguishing features: Being handsome
Clothing Preferences: Bright colors, flowing fabrics, and wearing just enough gold/jewels for it to be a little too much.

---

Psychology

Likes:
-Gardens
-Hookah lounges, tea houses, taverns - Anywhere he can meet interesting people
-Art, beauty, music
-Wild parties and extravagant feasts
-Keeping life as fun as possible

Dislikes:
-Conflict; a friendly spar is a good time but anything with malice, he’s out
-Being alone
-Anything too serious

Sexuality:
-Bisexual

Hobbies:
-Partying
-Swordsmanship
-Meeting new people
-Anything that sounds fun

Life Goals/Dreams:
To have a good time, make exceptional memories, and regret nothing.

Personality Summary:

An extreme optimist; for Rohit, his glass is not merely half full, his cup runneth over with fine wine. To him, the world is a wondrous and beautiful place, with so many things to explore and learn about, so many interesting people to meet, and even bad luck turns around with time. Not that he’s ever had bad luck, good fortune seems to cling to Rohit. Though he possesses a kind-hearted and gentle nature, his noble upbringing makes it difficult for him to understand, or truly relate, to hardships. It takes a lot to bring his mood down and he will choose to look for common ground or a sufficient compromise when conflict arises. Rohit seeks to understand, to know as much about the world as he can, and hopes that one day he’ll be at least half as wise as his father.

Rohit is a wandering dreamer. Often too caught up in whatever has caught his attention to be punctual and easily led astray by curiosity and the allure of new experiences. He knows his promises are flimsy at best, and thus rarely makes them. Having grown up accustomed to the finer things, he enjoys indulging in all that makes life worth living and ensuring those around him have the same opportunity. A generous people pleaser, Rohit will do just about anything to make sure those around him share his joy, because sad people make him sad, and who wants that?

---

Background

Current occupation:
Known throughout Kimoon as a wild free spirit whose scandals are easily overshadowed by his charity work* and philanthropy.

*(most of the actual work part is done by a team of people but Rohit does make sure his projects happen and are well funded)

Any past occupations?:
None

Relatives:
Navi Amar, Vali of Kimoon - Father
Aisha Amar - Mother

Skills:
-Physically fit
-Being oblivious to anything too serious
-Talking to people
-Seems to be naturally blessed with good luck

History Summary:

The Astral Arcana truly blessed Rohit, not only with noble birth but in the care of the kindest and most patient people he knows, his parents. Raised by scholars, Rohit inherited their curiosity about the world but lacked their discipline in studying. He’d rather explore outside than study things from the pages of a book, he’d rather hear people talk about the things they knew than stare at words on a page. Rohit hated being still, hated being alone for too long, hated when things were too quiet.

His parents were endlessly patient and his every whim was encouraged and supported. When he showed interest in music, musicians were brought in to instruct him, when his parents noted he enjoyed touring Kimoon’s gardens, botanists were brought in to teach him about plants, and Rohit once noted that the stars looked ‘pretty cool,’ and a telescope was purchased the next day. His interests always flared and burned out, but his parents always supported learning something new. His childhood was near idyllic; surrounded by luxury but raised to appreciate it all as a blessing.

When his father was made Vali of Kimoon, life only became more exciting. There were even grander opportunities; better tutors and mentors, bigger feasts and elaborate parties, and meeting people from all over Alidasht. He was more than happy to support his father’s new role; socializing at events and engaging in charity work for Kimoon, strengthening the family image. Even with Rohit’s occasional scandal, it was easy for the Amar family to look good when the last Vali was executed for embezzlement and treason. His good deeds and eagerness to spend time with citizens always outshined any trouble he found himself in.

Rohit jumped at the chance to travel to Caesonia for the summer but arrived late due to his instance of stopping at every interesting port along the way. There was only so much time Rohit could spend on a ship before he grew restless, the frequent stops were necessary.

---

---

Q&A

Questionnaire

History
Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?:
“Nurtured, my parents are lovely people.”

When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?:
“Sanctuary? I would just seek counsel from my dad, wisest man I know. Life’s too short to spend it upset, best to remedy the situation and move on.”

What were you like in your teenage years?:
“Happy, wild, and free. Just as I am now.”

How close are you to your parents?:
“Very close, we get along well and I value their insights.” Rohit’s answer lacks the confidence of his previous ones. For a second he wonders if his parents secretly wished for a scholarly son, one more suited to follow in his father's footsteps. His smile soonreturns and the thought vanishes as the next question is asked.

Do you have any trauma that haunts you?:
“No…and who would want to discuss that?”

What advice would you give your younger self?:
“Rohit, I know books are boring. So, so, boring, but we must try and read them. Or pay someone to read them to us. It is the only way to keep up with the conversations at family dinner.”

Were you an obedient child or defiant?:
“Obedient; my parents upheld no frivolous rules, everything was explained so that I understood the why of it and how I was to act. This makes it easy to respect their wishes. …But a little more defiant in my teen years.”

What is your biggest regret?:
“None, next question.”

Romance
Have you ever been in love? :
“All the time, it’s a fleeting feeling though isn’t it? Comes and goes like rain.”

What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.:
“Only one? I guess they’d need to have everything. Kind, fun, passionate about something, and good to look at.”

How do you display affection? What is your love language?:
“With affection, however the other person prefers it.”

Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?:
“You’d have to get me drunk to pull that story out.”

Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?:
“Yes, people claim it, and who am I to question if they mean it.”

What does marriage mean to you?:
“Being tied to one person, which is fine, if that’s what you want.”

Are you currently crushing on anyone?:
“Every pretty face in front of me.”

Do you ever consider having children in the future?:
“Probably, in the distant, distant future. Far past where my current plans extend to.”

Personality

Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
“Brunch at the Enchanted Garden! Have you been? There are glowing mushrooms on the trees and food you cannot find anywhere else. Everyone should go at least once. It’s very relaxing after a good Saturday night.”

What kind of person do you aspire to be?:
“Kind.” Rohit did not feel a need to expand on that answer.

What bad habits do you have?:
“I don’t think I have any.”

If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?:
“I’d try harder with my studies, maybe try and read a couple of books in front of my parents, I think they’d like that.” Rohit shifts uncomfortably at this question, hoping the next one is lighter.

What is your greatest fear?:
“That’s a dark question! Being eaten by a tiger? That sounds bad, let’s go with that.”

What are your pet peeves?:
“Who wants to worry about other’s habits?”

When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?:
“With others, people who can cheer me up.”

Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?:
“Neither, I prefer to look for common ground.”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: North Pass; Cabin
Interactions: Rue@Potter, Bardulf@Lava Alckon, Bridgette, Mister Luum@FunnyGuy, and Zeva@Pink Khione
Equipment:Sword, hunting knife, a backpack with supplies, and a stoat named Raze who naps in the pocket of his vest.

---

Bowyn drew closer to Rue and wrapped an arm around her waist. “And if your feet and wings grow tired, you can lean on me.” He offered as Rue mentioned leaving the pegasus behind to avoid attention. Luum suggested enchanted rings, which sounded expensive to Bowyn, “It’s not even that cold. Why are elves so dramatic?” He whispered to Rue. “Good deal? Think we could snag whatever Zeva needs for free?” Bowyn whispered to Rue as Zeva asked if she had enough amas. The idea of spending the morning stealing supplies sounded a lot more fun than just shopping for them.

He watched as Bardulf offered the enchanted ring to Zeva, leaving Bowyn to wonder if they still needed to go shopping or if the matter was now settled. “Do we still need to go shopping for the Elf-cicle?” Bowyn asked, as Bardulf was halfway out the door, seemingly eager to hunt beasties. It sounded a lot more fun than shopping, so if that was no longer needed Bowyn preferred the wilderness to marketplace. “Taverns usually have bounties posted if you’re looking to gain some real amas. Otherwise, Me, Rue, or Bridget are likely your best bet for help navigating the woods here.” He added, thinking it was a mistake to let Bardulf go off alone.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Port Vanarosa
Interactions: Jun@JJ Doe, Tanithil @Lava Alckon, Arlen @SilverPaw
Equipment: A halberd and half-plate armor

---

Zion listened, nodding his head along as Tanithil spoke. The dark elf sent them on ahead so that he could check up on the rest of the crew and see if they wished to eat as well. It reminded Zion of how Malachi awoke early to prepare breakfast, and this made him confident that Tanithil was an excellent leader as well. “Aye, Aye, Cap’n.” The words flew from the overly enthusiastic lion’s mouth, not only was he about to eat but Tanithil gave him the perfect opportunity to throw out some pirate talk! They had yet to even embark on an adventure and Zion was already giddy.

He nudged Jun with his elbow, “Hear that Jun, if you need to start a bar fight, be stealthy about it!” He joked, hoping to lighten his mood a little. “Breakfast and ale await.” Zion added, voice booming as he corralled Jun in the direction of Arlen.

Once they’d caught up to Arlen Zion answered the elf’s inquiry about his experience in the desert. “I once hunted a savage ogre that dwelled on the outskirts of Myriamor. A breathtaking city deep within a fierce desert, no finer city for a cat to visit, did you know they see cat’s as good luck?” He continued on, spinning an exaggerated tale of his mighty victory over the ogre, pausing several times to prevent Jun from wandering off.

Zion intervened each time Jun strayed from the path, inching far too close to perilous alleyways where trouble could be waiting. Zion kept vigilant, making sure the human did not get lost, or robbed, or kidnapped, or, worst of all, tossed into the ocean for the fish to nibble upon. He said nothing of Jun’s lack of a sense of direction, not wanting to harm the human’s pride but made note of it as additional training Jun would need.

“Surely your travels have led to many exciting battles, Arlen. Have you encountered many sea-beasts?” He asked.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Gaurav Village
Interactions: Phia@princess, Darius@FunnyGuy, Dante@Alivefalling, Menzai@samreaper
Equipment: A pack with some supplies, seeds (in his pockets), a small knife, a mask that hangs from his belt, a weapon with a shifting charm that is either a sickle or a glaive, and a shield/drum with an unbreakable charm.

---

Cyrus gave Phia a strange look, alone in seeing the irony of her bowing when her title was no different than his. “It is an honor we share; to be in the presence of incredible people.” He replied, bowing his head in return.

“Is it negative? Or cautious?” Cyrus replied to Dante’s comment in a tone that made it clear he didn’t know the answer. As much as he’d like to believe he could trust the people he’d grown up trusting, his people, Darius’s point stood. Allegiance could change, especially when his people lived in fear of their harsh oppressors. “It would be a lot to ask, for anyone, to risk their safety for someone who abandoned them long ago. But I know my people, many are like Phia, willing to risk everything for what matters. Fairies do not take well to being conquered.” He paused, and thought about the different dynamics within the group, with so many different outlooks he felt confident they could work out who to trust. “Either way, Phia is right, River Fairy Kingdom is a place of joy, maybe even enough to life Menzai’s spirit, and we will look out for each other.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Lord Leo Smithwood

Time: Morning
Location: Sorian’s shrine of Edin to The Royal Curd
Interactions: none
Daily Misfortune: Leo's hair and skin are now hot pink.

Leo prepared himself for the arduous hours of church-filled boredom that were surely about to commence. As King Edin began a speech that was all gods this and holy that, the young lord’s mind quickly began to wander. Irritatingly, his mind wandered back to something Riona had said; She’s waiting for you to snap. See how much you take after your father when that happens. A comment he’d chosen to ignore at the time, because it was a ridiculous utterance from a nobody who likely knew nothing about his father, and arguing with maids in the street was a bad look for him.

Was his father’s temper bad enough for Lady Morrigan to have commented on it? Sure his parents fought, frequently, but didn’t everyone’s? Duke Feralt certainly had little patience when it came to dealing with servants and the unimportant, but he’d always been to keep decorum when it mattered. Hadn’t he?

Leo didn’t care for these thoughts, he didn’t care for anything that made him doubt the image he held of his father, a man whose best qualities he could only dream of emulating, a faultless duke who led without doubts.

The reveal of Edin’s portrait came as a welcomed distraction, something else to think of as the horns and crude mustache marred the king’s visage. May these fictitious gods bless the idiot who did that. He thought as he admired vandalism, the failed attempt of a flustered king to appear unbothered, and the stifled laughter that murmured through the crowd. This could only make his stay in Caesonia a little more interesting.

His eyes scanned the crowd, tried to pick up on who showed visible signs of amusement, and wondered when the church had become filled with some of the filthiest peasants he’d ever seen. How hard was it to at least take a bath before going to the king’s service? He sincerely hoped these unsightly peasants wouldn’t be joining the rest of the congregation at the Royal Curd, surely such an unscale establishment held a dress code.

Much to Leo’s disappointment, The Royal Curd was in fact infiltrated by those who smelled and looked, far worse than even the stinkiest of cheeses. The Royal Curd itself was a bit questionable; an overwhelming sea of bright yellow and golds, overdoing the cheese theme to a childish degree, and it all clashed terribly with Leo’s newfound complexion. Still he thanked the strange cheese-maiden and made his way to one of the event tables, at the very least the cheese here had to be good.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Lord Leo Smithwood

Time: Morning
Location: Sorian’s shrine of Edin
Interactions: Just watching The Edin Parade
Daily Misfortune: Leo's hair and skin are now hot pink.

A man entered from a side door and the spectacle began. The priest immediately asked everyone to stand, ...weird to wait until everyone is seated and then ask them to stand again. Leo went along with the request, as did the rest of the room.

Then a long-winded naming of a variety of gods and their purposes commenced, ...how many gods did one nation need? A god just to fortify spirits, another to guide paths. Excessive. Does Varian have this many? His mind wandered as he stood still, pretending to pay close attention but remaining silent due to not knowing the proper responses. He tried to remember the names of the Varian gods and concluded that Varian did in fact have more gods than Caesonia.

The doors, dramatically swung open. Leo was caught in an internal debate, ...If Varian has more gods, does that mean we are stronger, or does it imply we need more help from imaginary sky friends?

The combination of the orchestra beginning to play, paired with the angelic choir voices, lead his mind back from where it had wandered off. His full attention locked onto the precession. Two rows of torch bears marched down the path, the heat from the flames brushed by with them.

In his glory, behold the god’s face…
…Edin’s face? Did Edin write this song? Women tossed rose petals as they followed behind the torchbearers.

Hear the heaven’s declare his rule just and wise…
Wise? Are the gods here all as drunk as the king’s youngest son? Shimmering golden-clad knights marched behind the flowers and held high their swords.

Edin’s voice, though Leo couldn’t see the king anywhere, echoed through the church. And then the last thing Leo expected to see, a collection of dancers wearing giant Edin-heads began to perform. Since he was already in church he offered up a silent prayer to foreign gods for at least one of the Edin-headed monstrosities to fall over. Leo found himself disappointed by the inability of the gods to grant wishes.

Leo clapped through his brief moment of disappointment, offering all the enthusiasm he could for a ridiculous but entertaining performance. If King Edin excelled at one thing, it was keeping his people entertained and constantly admiring their king.

Finally, the man of the hour entered, the king carried upon a throne, and with a cape that trailed endlessly behind him. As King Edin raised up his hands, Leo applauded, now for the king who created such a spectacle and who likely had many of his attendees convinced he truly was something divine.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Flashback: Night Sola 23, 1739

Callum & Riona Part 1

---

Riona stepped into the gardener’s hut, the familiar comfort draining away the tension from the night’s events. She lit a candle and settled at the rough-hewn table, taking a moment to massage her aching feet once she slipped off her shoes. As she sat there, her mind drifted back to the dented pocket watch she found in the carriage. A frown tugged at her lips. She’d deal with that later.

For now, she had a job to do. Riona reached for a piece of parchment and a quill to scribble down the useful tidbits of gossip and intrigue she’d gathered while it was all still fresh in her mind. Her hand flew across the page, documenting everything from backroom deals to bedroom scandals that Callum could use to secure his place among the Thornbreakers.

The scratching of her quill was briefly interrupted by the scrape of the key at the door. The door creaked open, but Riona didn’t turn to see who it was. “Hey, Cal, is it okay if you wait a bit? I’ll change out of this dress as soon as I’m done with this.” She called over her shoulder as she hastily finished writing.

The door shut behind him and a disheveled Cal entered. His shoes still lost, hairline damp with sweat, and pupils expanded enough to nearly erase his irises; he looked worse than he felt. Or that was true until he entered the hut.

“Whenever you’re ready.” He answered, being asked to wait meant he was definitely not late.

Shadowy smoke that rose and swirled from Riona, coalesced into two indistinct forms hovering silently around her as she scribbled at the table. One radiated an intense heat, like a fire untamed and wild, while its counterpart exuded a deathly chill, cold as the ashes that remained after a fire burnt out long ago.

They remained still and watchful until Callum took another step into the house. With a sudden burst, the fiery entity rushed forward, stopping just inches from his face. It inhaled deeply, taking in his scent, then began to circle him. Hungry. Starving. It wanted to devour him.

The frigid entity approached more slowly, more deliberately. It circled Callum from the opposite direction, regarding him not as something to be hunted, but as an enemy to be destroyed. Malice. It not just wanted him dead, it wanted him to suffer.

Voices filled the air—tens, hundreds, maybe thousands of distant, faint screams layered one over the other until they melded into a haunting whisper. They spoke of hatred for all that Callum was, for all that had forged him and allowed Caesonia to become and remain so rotten. They echoed with anger, resonating with the rage that simmered within his own heart.

“We know what you want,” the voices rasped in unison, “because we want it too.” To set aflame the very foundations of this kingdom, to raze everything to the ground, leaving not even ashes, so that nothing may ever rise from its ruins again. To purify Caesonia from the evil that is you and yours.

“Do you seek atonement, Danrose?” the whispers questioned as their smoky forms swirled around the prince.

“Then keep feeding us.”

The night air, which had felt cool and refreshing, was gone in an instant. No fire was lit inside the hearth, but it felt as if the heat from one was close enough that he could smell it, feel its intense flicker against his skin. Then again, the scent of the bonfire still clung to his clothes.

He thought about opening a window as the feeling of being watched, as if something that exhaled pure heat breathed down his neck, followed him as he slowly walked to the window. The window's reflection showed only the small flicker of a candle and Riona entirely focused on writing.

It was all in his head, the lingering effects of the tea he’d drank. He pressed his head against the cool glass of the window. A cold chill found him, too cold even to be a welcomed break from the heat. Callum shivered. The feeling of being watched only heightened, hairs on the back of his neck bristled as if to alert him of a deadly predatory stalking him just out of sight. He only turned and sank to the floor beneath the window, sitting there with his eyes closed waiting for the feeling to pass.

The unbearable heat, the sudden chills, the unnerving paranoia; these were all familiar side effects of many intoxicants he’d tried before. He kept reminding himself it was the tea. Still, his heart raced from the malevolent feeling of the unseen watchers.

Don’t panic. Don’t panic. Don’t-Do you seek atonement, Danrose? Then keep feeding us. A voice that felt different from his own mind’s intruded into his thoughts. A foreign sound inside his head, a word that felt like a far-off light he could never reach.

Atonement; a goal as unattainable as wishing himself a bird, a concept as alien as freedom. He could only shake his head; he didn’t have the energy for impossible hopes. All the beauty the tea helped him see was now fading.

“Cal?”

Vibrant colors of brilliant orange and shimmering gold cut through the smoke as Riona reached out and touched Callum’s arm. Her eyes, wide with concern, searched his face. “Are you… okay?”

A fire that lights the way in the darkness. A guiding lantern, aglow with orange and gold, radiating a softer, more welcomed warmth than the rest of the heat that permeated the home. “Orange makes you glow.” He said, looking up at Riona, before standing back up.

“I drank a tea that made everything glow, and move like it was alive, even things that aren’t alive. And it was all so beautiful, have you ever… never mind, important work to do, right? Time to uncover some secrets.” His speech quickened, he wanted more than anything to get out of the hut right now, it felt unwelcoming.

Warmth rose to Riona’s cheeks as Callum’s comment took her by surprise. “Orange makes you glow.” And then the blush deepened when she realized that Callum wasn’t complimenting her or her dress, but that the effects of some drug he took was making him see everything with a literal glow. Riona swallowed her embarrassment and reined in the flutter of disappointment. “Are you sure you’re up for it? You didn’t look too good a second ago…” She eyed him critically, pressing her palm to measure his temperature while checking his pulse with her other hand. Frankly, he looked terrible. “If the tea’s messing with you, maybe we should call it off for tonight.”

“Didn’t look too good?” Cal repeated the words slowly. “I feel…” He trailed off, the right word for it escaped him. “I don’t think this house likes me. Like something’s watching, something more than just dangerous.” He knew he wasn’t making sense and he didn’t know how to make it make sense. He looked at Riona, who was now checking him for a fever.

“I’m not sick, Riona. Look, you’re all flushed too. I knew it was too hot in here. Why is it so hot in here? Does the house hate me?” He continued on his train of thought unraveling the more he rambled.

“If you want to call it off, I can go alone. But if I keep finding excuses not to do things, I’ll keep not doing anything.” This was easier to admit because Callum knew it was true. “I’d rather not go alone, I do stupid things alone, but I don’t think anyone will care if I get caught wandering around the palace in the middle of the night.”

“Slow down, Cal.” Her brows knitted together, resting her fists on her hips. “Feeling unwell is not an excuse—it’s a valid reason. Even from a practical standpoint.” The lines on her face deepened, etched by the candlelight. “What kind of person would I be if I let you wander around the castle, feeling overheated and half-delirious, just so you can help me with something I’ve handled alone for years?”

“If you’re putting Prince Callum Danrose behind you, then you have to learn to take better care of yourself. Otherwise, you’ll just slip back to his ways. If you can’t now, then I will until you learn how.” Or until he finds someone who can. She held his gaze before giving him the once over. “I’m going to trust you if you say you can handle it, but the second I think you can’t I’m dragging your butt to bed. Got it?”

“I’m fiiiine, and I, mostly, only had tea tonight.” He grinned, wide enough that it showed too many teeth. “I will cause no problems tonight.” Callum promised, and he meant it, just as much as he meant most of his promises.

“... Gods, I’m going to have to drag your butt to bed, aren’t I?” Exhaling a soft sigh, she turned toward the table, fingers trailing along the wood. “The tea might be giving you hot flashes and making you a little jumpy.” Riona lifted a ceramic jug, pouring lukewarm water into a waiting cup. “It’s a bit chilly in here so I was ready to make a fire if you were going to be late.”

Riona hesitated, worrying her lip as heat crept into her cheeks once more. “Me being, uh, flushed has nothing to do with the room… When you said orange made me glow....” Her words picked up speed as she tried to get it over with and move on. “I thought you were complimenting me. Then you mentioned the tea, and I realized I was just being vain.” She gave a small, self-deprecating laugh. “It’s stupid, really. Forget I said anything.” Riona waved the awkwardness away with her hand.

Callum thought about that for a moment and decided to make it a bit more awkward as Riona went to grab her notes. “If I started the conversation with ‘Riona orange makes you glow so brightly Zivitas himself burns with envy,’ that wouldn’t help your vanity.” He teased, but not insincerely.

“Ha. Ha. Ha.” Riona shot Callum a look. “Now I know you’re pulling my leg.” She smirked as she added a lighthearted, “Ass.”

“Orange looks good on you, makes you stand out, and I was worried it would hurt the stealth mission.”

“Good thing I’m changing out of it then, huh? Wouldn’t want to blind you with my brilliance.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Lord Leo Smithwood

Time: Morning
Location: Sorian’s shrine of Edin
Interactions: Riona @JJ Doe
Daily Misfortune: Leo's hair and skin are now hot pink.

“You thought a collection of tacky, women’s shoes that looked like a sugared-up child picked them out were appropriate for a fashionable gentleman of my standing? If you’re going to lie, at least make it believable.” Leo answered with an eye roll. “No, for some reason you have decided to harbor a bizarre grudge against me. Going so far as to take the olive branch, I so graciously extended to you, snap it in half, and toss it aside. Like a petulant child.” He went on to explain, in great detail, exactly what was wrong with every shoe that was placed in his room. Until he got to the lion slippers, “I suppose even a broken clock is right twice a day, the slippers were acceptable. However, your ability to hold an umbrella steady is unimpressive.”

Leo was not letting the shoe situation go, perpetually irked by the fact that every time Riona was unable to follow simple orders, he was then forced to continue interacting with her. “I cannot understand why Lady Morrigan finds this an appropriate remedy, the burden of correcting unruly servants should not fall upon guests. This would never happen in Varian. Have I offended her somehow?” He paused, perplexed as to what he could’ve possibly done to offend Morrigan.

“Ah, never mind, how would you know the answer to that.” He chuckled at the thought of some random maid having any insights into Morrigan’s mind. “Now about my room, the furniture needs moved around…” Leo went on to explain how the placement of everything in his room needed to be rearranged in some manner and how he expected Riona to make sure that was taken care of by nightfall. Truly, Leo was enjoying the sound of his own voice again now that it was back to normal.

“And, since it seems beyond your understanding, I will explain how this works; I assign a task and you do it correctly. Then we can stop having these unwanted interactions, everyone wins. I can go about my day, unhindered by incompetence, and you can return to whatever it is you do when not bothering me. Oh like playing in horse muck. Speaking of, my horse, Menace, could also use some grooming. He can be a bit temperamental but I’m sure you’ll figure that out.” Leo then entered the strange shrine to Edin’s glory, feeling like he had handled this situation quite well.

“Refresh my memory, do you worship His Royal Majesty as if he were the embodiment of a god or because the King is divinely chosen?” He asked, he never paid much attention to religious practices. It was all just superstitious nonsense as far he was concerned, but while in attendance he should at least have some idea of what was going on today. “Don’t forget to put the umbrella away once inside.” He added. Once inside he looked for a seat near the back, just in case the service was boring. He didn’t want to be seen looking half asleep too close to a king, and currently, he stuck out like a sore thumb - one dipped in bright pink paint at that.