Potter

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Location: Forest
Time: 12:00 pm

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The bear roared indignantly when an arrow struck its shoulder. The second one missed, because the bear had lowered itself down onto the ground. The next one struck its other shoulder and caused it more agony. Blood oozed from both wounds, while foam continued to froth from its mouth. The bear turned to Munir and roared once more and began charging at him, intent on ripping him to shreds. There was nothing but rage and murder in the bear’s eyes, and it was relentless.

In the bear’s peripheral vision, it saw Roman, but was slow to turn and face him. It swiped at Munir as if he was a log drifting in the river with ferocity, then rounded on Roman. The spear punctured the bear’s chest, but did not let it stop it from attacking. It charged at Roman and attempted to bite into his leg and crush it with a powerful bite. The bear did not look for the other hunters and instead focused solely on the three nobles.

Sharp, powerful jaws gripped the bear’s neck before it could make another move. It roared and thrashed wildly as it struggled to unhinge the tiger from its back. The bear roared again vehemently, and attempted to strike the tigers’ flank with bloody and sharp claws. The tigress attack was successful in diverting the beast’s attention and was quickly slashed by Mayet, causing it further rage and strengthening its desire to murder them all. It finally threw off Nala with a great thrust and growled as it lowered onto all fours. The bear’s spine was dislodged, and therefore it could no longer stand on its back legs. It charged one last time with a mighty roar at Nala, designating her as the biggest threat.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Location: Forest
Time: 12:00 pm

---

The soft melody of birds echoed through the forest, while the chatter of the hunters competed with them. Hanna stood with arms folded and with a neutral expression, though now and then she’d scowl. The ideology of them bragging about their hunt was something she chose to laugh at silently. They had found squirrels, birds and chipmunks. One of them had nearly bagged a deer but had sneezed and scared it off. Unfortunately, the hunt had been tame and quiet thus far, much to her surprise. Though, she was relieved it hadn’t been messy. Once she saw the foreign nobles return with their hunt, she let out a relieved sigh. Hanna’s lips curled upwards into a half smile as she approached them carefully, as not to startle them nor the tigress. ”I see you had better success,” she complimented Mayet, Munir, and Roman with a grin. ”The forest may not have blessed us with big finds, but it will be enough.” She gestured to Roman’s beaver, then Mayet’s and Munir’s bunnies.

Her eyes sparkled with interest watching Nala terrorize the poor bunny, and then looked at Mayet. ”I’m sure you’re aware, but watching you both was a gift I’ll treasure.”

Then her eyes flashed to Munir and amusement flashed across her face. ”Your horse and you are a great team. I hope to see you work more together.”

Then her gaze darted to Roman and she smiled the widest for him. ”Excellent find, Sir Ravenwood! Beavers aren’t easy to catch here.”

She paused and turned to face the three hunters and then continued. ”Both kingdoms will be proud of all of you.” The last statement was directed at the three of them whom she added, ”I’ll make sure to pass on the blessings of your hunt to your kingdoms.” Hanna then turned to wave them over to follow her to the entrance of the clearing. ”A feast is a feast, and there are many mouths to feed. Let’s go.”

Before Hanna could move, a large growl emitted from the forest behind her. She turned and stared with wide-eyes as a 7 foot grizzly bear charged at her. She inhaled and tried to dodge it, but wasn’t quick enough; it swiped her with its front paw and knocked her aside like a bowling pin. Hanna let out a cry of pain and dropped to her side, badly wounded. It huffed and turned to face the other hunters. The bear had foam dripping from its mouth as it growled and snarled at them, then charged at the group relentlessly.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Festival at the Park
Interactions: @Aerandir Verrick & @Blizz Lyra
Mentions:
Sadie’s Dress, Shoes & Hair

---

Between Lyra’s mystery and Verrick’s questions, Sadie could sense the growing tension. Verrick had apologized for interrupting to which she waved him off: she was glad they were on the same page. The General’s story made sense to those who wouldn’t pry; the answers she provided revealed enough information to satisfy their answers without providing more. The attire she wore did look like a General’s and the sword on her back further pushed the narrative. It was clear the woman was hiding something, and the unknown of it intrigued her. How had she come from a distant land and happened to pass through? Why did she have red eyes? Sadie’s mind buzzed with curiosity and questions, which she struggled to hold back on.

Eating had taken up her attention, and she was hellbent on finishing this food despite what her mind was telling her. Verrick apologized for interrupting to which she waved him off. It was fine and he was right to question the General. Lost in her train of thought, Sadie tossed her plate out and was halfway back when she froze. She hadn’t allowed Verrick the chance to offer it, nor had she thanked him! She mentally facepalmed and looked at him apologetically. She quickly rejoined the two and came over to give him a side hug. ”Sorry! I realized you’d have probably done that but I was so wrapped up in my thoughts I forgot! And thank you for the food, it was so good! All these sugary treats are amazing!”

She let go and turned to face Lyra, a smile still painted across her face. Pushing this woman for details and answers she was clearly unwilling to give would only infuriate her. This was not something she wanted to explore: Verrick and her did not know how dangerous she could be. Being a veteran of war and carrying herself the way she did, meant that the woman knew how to handle herself. Therefore, she changed the subject. However, if there was any danger, Sadie was ready to act, but didn't show it outwardly.

”You must be hungry from your travels! I don’t know what your land is like or if you've ever played games-” she gestured to the festival and continued, "-so now seems like a good chance to do so! What do you think?” Next, she tilted her head back to look up at Verrick with wide-eyes and a puppy dog expression. Her blue eyes reflected from the sun like the ocean. For a moment, when Lyra couldn’t see, she allowed the suspicion to flash across her expression before disappearing like the waves in an ocean. ”Games! Food! Prizes! We must explore! I cannot sit any longer!”

Sadie moved to glance at them both and bounced on the balls of her feet. Then, she stretched her neck and arms and it was noticeable that she she was practically vibrating with energy. ”We can find out more about each other as we go! Let’s not waste the day!”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 11:00am
Location:Festival At the Park
Attire: Her outfit & hair
Interactions: @Rodiak Nahir ★ [@Lava Acklon] Farim ★ @princess Anastasia
Mention:

Layla grinned when Nahir slipped her arm through her’s. However, she’d noticed her sister visibly tense but hid the frown. Had she done something wrong? Pretending she hadn't seen, she nodded in agreement: the fire spitting and sword swallowing games were exhilarating. The games in the park were tame and foolish but despite it, they looked… delightful. The culture here was polar opposite. The crowd was having a blast though, and the screams of laughter and delighted echoed throughout the park. The food smelled delicious and the atmosphere was … pleasant, to her surprise.

However, a familiar voice reached their ears. She turned and found Farim, out of breath, being dragged by Princess Anastasia. Layla could see her sister biting back laughter and had difficulty doing so herself. Nonetheless, a smirk painted her face, though it wasn’t malicious. Layla bowed her head respectfully to both of them. Her gaze lingered on Farim and a softer smile was hidden underneath the smirk, only briefly being shown. His gesture this morning was not lost on her.

Nahir spoke first, greeting both their cousin and then the princess. Layla’s smirk shifted into a frown as her brows furrowed. What happened this morning? Did it have anything to do with the party? She knew her siblings had attended but not her. Layla glanced at her sister and tilted her head to one side to show her confusion, but it was ever so slight that most people would miss it. However, Nahir waved her hand to dismiss the subject, so Layla didn’t follow up on it. Judging by the way Nahir spoke and eyed Anastasia, Layla could surmise she had taken the brunt of it. Whoever faced the wrath of Hafiz….

Thankfully, her sister changed the subject and interrupted her reverie. ”Yes I do agree, Princess. What game do you recommend?” The change of her tone and body language were slight, but unnoticeable to those who did not know her. It was arrogant and sassy, as usual, but not as vicious.

”Cousin Farim, good to see you again.” Layla greeted and smiled softly. Her gaze snapped back to her sister as she added, ”Farim was nice enough to bring me food from the Taste of Alidasht this morning. It was not the same, but I suppose they tried.” She grinned at him playfully now and offered her other arm to him.

”Princess, we shall not leave you out.” Her voice held a strong conviction to it.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Festival at the Park
Interactions: @Aerandir Verrick & @Blizz Lyra
Mentions:
Sadie’s Dress, Shoes & Hair

---

Sadie’s fascination grew by the second. The Kingdom of Baltryia was mysterious and unknown to her. Her eyes widened with interest and she found herself leaning in unconsciously. Her mind raced with the word, but she couldn’t remember reading or hearing about it. Questions popped into her mind, but she held her tongue while the woman continued to speak. However, her curiosity was dashed when the woman changed the subject. Sadie leaned back now so as not to weird the woman out. A kind smile painted her face while she patiently listened to her.

”The food and city are both lovely indeed. They usually have great events.” Sadie gestured to the park around them and folded her hands together. She watched as Lyra turned her body to face her, including her food. Sadie felt her heart rate accelerate and she bit her tongue; this time, physically.

Before Sadie could politely reject the food, Verrick returned. He placed a funnel cake between her and Lyra’s food offering as a physical barrier. While she doubted it was poisoned, she wouldn’t trust a stranger upfront. Since she’d announced she was a princess, the price of her head would be high enough for the wrong crowd. Thankfully, Verrick stood directly behind her, and Sadie noted his presence was comforting. ”Caesonia is a bit far for just passing through if you are from Baltyria.” His gravelly tone remained, which made Sadie giggle internally.

Verrick then handed her the plate of food which she eagerly began eating. She ignored her mind screaming at her to stop. The sugary delight in her hand’s would not go to waste nor his sweet gesture. Since she was preoccupied with eating, she was unable to comment further. Her stomach churned and a knot formed in her abdomen. Sadie refocused her attention elsewhere, while the knot in her stomach grew. ”To my recollection, there never has been a party who’s traveled out of there…for any reason. So why now?” Thankfully, Verrick continued to speak which allowed her to assess the situation.

First, the woman was from a distant land; a land that she hadn't heard of before. Verrick further backed up the claim and had a valid point. Secondly, her eyes were red. How did someone's eyes become red? Sadie was unsure if it was genetic mutation or something more sinister. Therefore, Sadie remained silent, while observing her reaction and hungrily eating the funnel cake.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 11:00am
Location: Princes’ Court > Festival At the Park
Attire: Her outfit & hair
Interactions: @Rodiak Nahir
Mention: @Rodiak Zarai ★ @Inertia Auguste ★ @helo Callum ★ @SausagePat Ruby ★

After leaving the Princes Court, Layla glanced at the other princes and their prospective future wives. She noticed the odd-looking multi-colored peasant speaking with Callum on God only knew what; then the noblewoman covered in bruises speaking with Auguste. She paused to admire the lady’s hair, then turned away as she had better things to do than hang with the rabble.

Layla briefly retired to her room to check if it’d been cleaned properly and was proud to find the maid wasn’t as stupid as she looked. There was chocolate waiting for her that she smirked at and quickly devoured. Layla then looked at the newspaper once more. Out of all the events, The Festival at the Park sounded decent. She wasn’t in the mood to hunt, nor watch an execution, despite how delightful they might be. Besides, the sun would be enriching for Zilal who’d been cooped up in the buildings. She changed into lighter clothing and pulled her hair out of her face. Next, she grabbed a parasol and spun it around gleefully before turning to her snake. ”Fancy some sunlight, Zilal?” He flicked his tongue and began slithering towards the door. Layla giggled and followed him out.

”Ali!” She called, seeing the familiar tall and slender frame and dark hair of her favorite servant, Ali. He spun around and nodded to her, waiting for her orders. ”We’re going to the Festival; fetch my palanquin will you?” He nodded and quickly left. When he returned, he escorted her out of the guest house and towards her palanquin where several servants waited. During the journey on her palanquin, Layla used a mirror to fix her hair to ensure it was perfect, while another servant fanned her.

After arriving, Layla surveyed the scenery before her while Zilal wrapped himself back around her shoulders so he wasn’t lost. It was an odd sight, seeing all the tacky booths and hopeful workers vying for attention and money. The sweet, savory, and salty aromas piqued her interest, but she wasn't sure what to try first. Towards the back, she noticed the games and watched with curiosity. How interesting, she thought, watching the duck tank while people screamed with laughter and delight. There were a few people she would love to dunk… permanently.

The amount of people here caused her stomach to churn. It was filled with rabble and nobles alike, something she disagreed with. Her gaze traveled to a trio near the bench and then away. What could she do here, she wondered? Could she let loose and be herself? Her gaze moved to her guards and Ali then let a thought die before it could form.

Layla continued walking forward when she noticed her dear sister, Nahir. A sigh of relief escaped her and she strode towards her purposefully. The crowd parted to make room for her which she admired. At least they had the sense to get out of her way! ”Sister Nahir. What a delightful surprise.” Layla greeted and smiled genuinely at her. ”This is quite different from home, isn’t it?” She offered her arm to her to link through if she wanted. ”Shall we continue the festivities together?"

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Wulfric & Layla

Interaction: @Terrance420 Alden

---

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Alden approached him, but as soon as the man dared call him ‘my boy’, Wulfric gave him a frosty warning glare. “Do take care of your forms of address, advisor. One in your current position should not forget themselves so.” Lest it be taken away from you was the abundantly clear implication. At his ‘advice’, he huffed an unamused breath. “Oh, please. Don’t tell me you have been away long enough to have forgotten this, too.” He didn’t clarify what ‘this’ was, however; that he disliked uselessness, that such a woman would clearly be of no interest to him, or something else. “Go take care of that instead,” he motioned with his head to the foreign warrior-man who wished to speak to the king.

***

The women were led closer, and Wulfric met the gaze of one Layla Kadir. He stood up and gave her a just-polite-enough Caesonian bow, but retained the eye contact, small, sharp smile in place. “What an unexpected yet welcomed surprise, Shehzadi.”

Layla ignored the other two ladies and instead, focused on Wulfric. His bow caused her to smirk, though she didn’t return one to him. Would he be able to earn a customary Alidasht bow by the end of their chat? It would certainly be exciting to find out. “I’m full of surprises, Wulfric. At least you can pronounce our titles right.” Layla’s voice carried proudly and smugly while she and Zilal neared the table. Her gaze was locked onto Wulfric; she hadn’t moved to glance anyone elses’ way. The eyes of the waiting peasants were like daggers in her back, but she didn’t turn to address them. A whisper had broken out amongst the foul; namely, they were not thrilled she had cut before them and was now seated with the eldest prince. Her guards stayed a fair distance behind, but were near enough to strike if necessary.

The prince leaned a hip against his table, waiting for her approach. Once close enough, and if she wished to sit, he would do the gentlemanly thing, and hold out the guest-designated chair for her. A simple task that he’d indeed perform with perfection and no mischief, even though he’d decided to subtly needle her with his words.

“But truly, there is hardly any need for someone of your status to come line up with the rest of this lot,” he smiled in a way that he knew flattered him, and impressed company. Yet there was the barest hint of a smirk bleeding through when he next spoke. “Though of course, if you wished to proclaim your intention to marry one of us, this would make for a prime opportunity,” he teased.

When Layla approached the table, she eyed the chair. That was enough for Wulfric to pull out the chair and for her to sit in. Once she was seated, Zilal slowly began to wind himself around the chair until he was at shoulder height. His gaze locked on Wulfric and he didn’t back down from staring him down. Layla petted his head softly while she eyed him with a cold and amused expression. The prince reciprocated Zilal’s stare, then sat down, faint smile playing about his lips.

His subtle jab made her eyebrows raise and her lips curl into a smirk. “Sitting with your kingdom’s constituents was not a punishment I’d hope to endure for long. To be fair, they are amusing, thinking they have a chance.” She then continued after his next statement and pretended as if he’d flattered her and batted her eyelashes. While doing so, she continued to gaze at him without hinting that she was studying him.

Wulfric took on a slightly more somber countenance, and for a short moment, his intent seemed entirely serious. “Whether a chat, or something more, I do feel that I have to apologize that Your Highness has been made to wait.” A blink, and then followed a change in tune if not in tone. “Especially when you’ve not only had to comingle with such rabble, but come behind them,” he shook his head, and touched a palm to his chest, as if saddened and pained. However, it secretly amused him that she might feel slighted by this minor inconvenience, especially since it was one of her own making.

The range of emotion and body language from the eldest son revealed many things. First, he was well groomed and trained. The responsibilities and demands of being next in line weren’t lost on Wulfric. While his other brothers may lack the grace and professionalism he had, Wulfric excelled. With the king sitting behind them a fair distance away, she knew the pressure was on him and not her. Second, he was challenging her and he seemed to adapt to doing so. He was on the same intellectual level and it was a relief to find someone who was. Third… Mayet had also danced with him, and the two seemed to get on fair. This wasn’t something Layla would forget. She continued studying and listening to him with a cold amusement.

After a quick, slyly assessing look from under his lashes, Wulfric added, “Such an unfortunate occasion when commoners advance ahead of royalty, wouldn’t you say?” He paused for effect, then continued. “Well, since you were looking forward to this so much, you could have the unique opportunity to be the first – and only one – to have your pick of one of us, if you so wish.” The prince looked at her, subtly challenging, and wondered if she’d simply leave, or choose to snub him and go to one of his brothers instead.

“It is a tragedy to be amongst the rabble, you are correct. Had I needed to wait more, I might have fed them to Zilal. These poor commoners came with their hopes and dreams, only to have them crushed beneath their feet.” Layla feigned sympathy and mockingly frowned as if she’d cared. Then, she let it drop, and focused intently on Wulfric, and her cold amusement returned once more. His challenge delighted her and she took her time pondering it. She placed a hand on her cheek and glanced up as if it were an intense decision.

“And to leave you to mingle with the rabble and to have to wait? We all know you won’t find another diamond amongst the rough.” Layla stared at him as if he’d upset her now, though there was a smirk hidden beneath it. Though she didn’t look back, she indiciated it with a tilt of her head. She waved her hand away as if the idea were a bothersome fly and now allowed the hint of a sly smirk poke through. “Wulfric, you wound me.”

Wulfric found himself watched, and returned it with keen, yet indirect observation of his own. His challenge was being met, which pleased him. Here, then, was the kind of opponent he might look forward to matching wits with. Superficially, Layla was similar to him in a few ways. Watchful, crafty, seeking to be entertained…He wondered idly what he’d find if he dug deeper. Humiliation would be one weapon to use against her, for she did not suffer it easily. He recalled how she and Mayet both had reacted with outrage during the fiasco at the ball. For that thoughtless behavior, they had been scolded by their father. The way they reacted to indignity was alike to the Vizier’s. The trio was similarly sensitive – or perhaps, volatile was the better descriptor. They all were far too self-important, as well. It was curious then, that while Wulfric felt only dismissive disdain for their uncle, he was willing to be more tolerant of the Shehzadis’ quirks.

“Should I consider myself fortunate, then, that I needn’t have bothered with any sifting, and you sought me out instead?” He offered her a little grin, as if in shared understanding of how obviously the answer was ‘yes’. All while poking her with the idea that she was just so very interested in him, something they both knew to be untrue.

At her last remark, he smiled with fake sweetness. “Ah, my apologies, Layla.” Though it sounded convincing enough, the concession was a false one. All part of their little game, of course. More to the point, he’d used her given name. He generally preferred to include titles, but since she’d taken her own permission to be so familiar with him, he had no issue reciprocating. “I am glad that you are so eager,” he allowed his lips to curl just like hers had.

Layla could feel his gaze burning into her and decided not to acknowledge it. They had one another’s attention and it would not easily be torn apart. A haughty smirk remained painted over her lips. They matched wits and tendencies, though their differences were overcast. While the eldest Prince continued to speak, Layla listened intently. Unfortunately, a ringing in her ears began and thus, she clutched the edge of the chair out of Wulfric’s line of vision. His statement, though lightly troublesome to hear, caused her to snicker. She didn’t bother responding to it.

Though she wouldn’t admit it out loud, she was impressed. The fake sweetness was as if she’d been staring in a mirror. Layla knew she’d met her match and managed a quick grin, then it disappeared. “Well, Wulfric,” Her voice dripped with similar sweetness, mixed with venom, “would have been a shame for you to sit here all by yourself, no?”

At that, an incredulous laugh escaped the prince’s lips. “Oh…Layla.” He had almost called her by her title again, but his lingering chuckle gave him enough leave to correct to her given name. “What a marvelous sense of humour you have,” he stated dryly. He couldn’t help slowly shaking his head in disbelief at the ridiculousness of her sentence. He laid his head upon his palm, surveying her with amusement. “Have you any idea how many want me? Think they can have me?” Dead or alive, he mused to himself darkly as he watched her with a glint in his eye. Though his question had been rhetorical, Wulfric nonetheless provided the answer. “Far, far too many.”

Languidly, he continued with the previous line of conversation. “Speaking of diamonds in the rough,” he said, ignoring that the Shehzadi had altered the conventional phrasing of the idiom to suit her own purposes. “You do, I note, give yourself far too little credit,” he lied smoothly. “What use would someone with your shine have for a backdrop like that?” The prince mimicked Layla’s head tilt with a brief glance towards the crowd behind her.

“I would like to know if there is someone who would claim that you lack polish.” He had considered adding how it might be futile to appeal to someone like that, to tease at the idea of how she was trying so hard to be noticed. However, he stopped as he saw her stare, and picked up his head from where he’d put it on his hand before. Tilting his chin, he wondered if he’d unexpectedly hit the mark, or if it was something else.

The ringing began growing with intensity, so she continued to focus harder on the conversation. Her heart began racing. Whether he sensed it or not, Zilal rested his head on her shoulder, a similar act he would do when he could tell she was becoming unwell. Layla focused more intently, perhaps her gaze became more intense. The familiar throbbing in her head caused her a quick scowl before it, too, disappeared behind the veil of arrogance and superiority.

Wulfric played with the idea of engaging in a silent staring match, but his focus shifted on Zilal, who had moved. He eyed the king cobra, curled as it was around the chair and the woman’s shoulders. “A wonderful companion that you have, as well. Potently venomous, hm?” He smiled faintly, and redirected his gaze to Layla. “Could he really swallow a human whole?” he asked, doubtful, yet with genuine interest. “I would have thought you might have to chop them up first. For ease of digestion,” he said with easy viciousness. Partly, because he was somewhat curious. And partly, because he wished to gauge her level of inclination towards violence.

Finally, the Prince redirected his attention to her esteemed serpent. A genuine smile was hidden and she gazed down at her serpent. Despite this, Wulfric’s words forced her to focus harder on staying present. “He is venomous, yes. A King Cobra bite will kill a human in thirty minutes and an elephant in a few hours.” Layla responded with a faint smile of her own once she met his gaze. The viciousness of his statements caused Layla to blink with surprise. He was charming, cunning and also colder than she had anticipated. Layla recovered quickly though, as not to allow her guard to drop too long.

“It would be a shame to give that away, Wulfric.” Venom dripped from her voice, while wickedness entered her eyes. Whether it was savage pleasure at a memory, or the idea of it, she hadn’t given it away. “Watching him hunt and kill his prey is quite entertaining though, especially when I give the command.” Layla finished and smirked at him. There was confidence in her voice and a gleam in her eyes. She hadn’t indicated his type of prey, or preferred diet, though she felt comfortable enough sharing about his venom and how lethal it was. It was clear that while he seemed docile in public, she had been successful in training him… and may not have been afraid of using him, either, should the situation call for it.

“How promising,” he flashed her a quick, small grin. “Perhaps, a demonstration sometime?” Something almost anticipatory shone in that crystalline gaze, but disappeared as soon as it’d appeared, gone with his next blink. “I am certainly more appreciative of the idea of a close animal companion such as Zilal…Or Nala,” he mused. “Is it a tradition of your royal family?” he questioned.

Layla smirked at this quick small grin, but didn’t interrupt. His anticipatory gleam wasn’t lost on her, despite how quick it’d appeared. At his commentary of a close animal companion, she chuckled. The ringing and headache intensified, so she kept her comments short. “Perhaps I could invite you to his next feeding,” Layla mused as she straightened up and continued. “As for animal companions being tradition, it is indeed. We all have our own. Perhaps you should find yourself one - as charming and vicious as you. ” She winked at him, though with a false sense of flirtation. The effort not to chuckle was becoming difficult, so she turned away and replaced it with her haughty smile.

Once standing, Layla turned back to Wulfric and bowed in the traditional Alidasht bow, though she didn’t dip far enough. ”It was an honor and pleasure meeting you, Wulfric.” She straightened up and moved away, thus allowing a new desperate noblewoman or peasant to come sit with the male viper.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Mentions: @13org Mayet, @Infinite Cosmos Munir, & @ReusableSword Roman
Location: Entrance to the forest near the shooting range
Time: 11am

---

Hanna surveyed the newcomers, particularly the Alidasht. Hanna couldn’t decide what to focus on first: the tiger, her ring blades, or the small but mighty Shehzadi. The Varian blacksmith cuaght her eye as well. This would be entertaining for sure! With a smirk, she turned to the others and gave them a warning glance. ”If you have any shred of common sense, you will stay out of their way.” Hanna indicted Mayet, Munir, and Roman with a quick flick of her hand.

”Allow me to explain the rules to you.” Hanna cleared her throat and gathered everyone’s attention, then continued. “There are animals ranging from small to very large in these woods. The size of the game you bring back will determine how many points you receive. The hunter with the most points will get to bring the best game home while the rest will get to select one each. The rest will be used for a grand feast tomorrow.” She smiled and waved them forward. ”Good luck!”

Instructions for Players

Please have your character see rustling in a bush or movement that can catch their eye. Aim at the target with your character. Go into the dice channel on discord and type /roll. Select the command in the option above the chat bar and then select D20. The number you get will determine your result. Please @GM so we can see your result.

You missed!: If you receive a number between 0 to 4, then you have missed the target.
Small animals: If you receive between 5-9, then you would hit a squirrel, chipmunk, rabbit or a bird.
Medium animals: If you receive between 10-13, then you can hit a coyote, fox, hawk, eagle or beaver.
Large animals: If you receive between 14-18, then you can hit a wolf, cougar, or deer.
Extra large animals: If you receive 19 or 20, then you can hit a bear, panther, moose, or elk.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Archery Range -> Festival at the Park
Interactions: @Aerandir Verrick & @Blizz Lyra
Mentions:
Sadie’s Dress, Shoes & Hair

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A sigh of relief almost escaped Sadie. The stranger didn't mind her company, and even scooted over for her. With a broad smile, Sadie tucked her hands under her dress and sat down. There, she unclasped her hands over her lap and faced her. While the woman spoke, Sadie analyzed her mannerisms and dialect. She seemed genuine and relieved to have company, which also made Sadie glow inside.

”Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mj. General,” Sadie bowed her head respectfully, then returned to her normal posture; seated up straight, hands folded, and her attention entirely focused on her. ”The fortune is all mine.” Sadie continued speaking and tried to hide her excitement at meeting someone new. ”So you’re not from here I take it? Where are you from? Your outfit is great!” Sadie gestured to her and then refolded her hands. ”What do you think of the food and Caesonia yet? Any opinions, even bad ones?” Her tone became teasing and a smirk painted across her lips.

Playfully, Sadie leaned over to her and lowered her voice: ”The Varian Kingdom’s kinder - but you didn’t hear it from me!” With a giggle, Sadie leaned away and looked over to watch some of the guests playing games or buying food. Though her mouth watered inside and her stomach yearned to try them, she ignored it.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Morning
Location: Archery Range -> Festival at the Park
Interactions: @Aerandir Verrick & @Blizz Lyra
Mentions: @princess Annie and Charlotte, @helo Leo, @Lava Alckon Farim
Sadie’s Dress, Shoes & Hair

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As Sadie watched Verrick’s internal dialogue, she glanced around. There were many families and couples heading to the Festival. She noticed Princess Annie colliding with an exotic looking gentleman she guessed was from Alidasht. Sadie smirked and decided to store it in the back of her mind for later. Her attention was brought back to Verrick with his low voice. Her gaze fixated on him with intensity and fought back a sigh. The protectiveness he held over her was endearing, given what had occurred in her life; yet she hoped she could have more flexibility coming to Caesonia.

Once he’d examined his options and reached his conclusion, she was on the edge of her seat. His proposal caused her to chew her lip. If there was trouble like there had been with the waffles and poor Charlotte, she wasn’t sure she could stand back. The other alternative though reminded her of the trouble she’d been in the past. The idea of a bad incident occurring made Sadie wonder if perhaps she shouldn’t go. If she could have chewed her fingernails off, she would have. The sweet and salty aromas from the festival wafted over and made her turn her head to stare longingly after them. If there was trouble, would she be helpful anyways? What if she made things worse…?

”I don’t think you need anymore though, Princess.”

”You sure you want that buffet, Sade? You’re not very ladylike, are you? All your inventions - I mean toys - you're a child... That’s what he keeps telling me, anyway....”

“No need to further bore you with my thoughts, I should clean up a bit and head out. Enjoy your morning Your Highness.”

Further bore you with my thoughts…. More like I bored you.....

Was she boring Verrick, was he following her because he had too? She realized she’d been silent for longer than necessary and turned around with a smile on her face. ”Of coooourse! Let’s go!” She beamed at him and took his hand and began leading him. Her smile masqueraded her true inner feelings, and for now, she’d ride that wave for as long as she could.

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Once they arrived at the festival, her eyes widened. There was so much to see and do! And the aroma of the food? She almost began to salivate at the mouth. Her gaze moved everywhere and tried to take everything in at once. Though she mostly saw couples, families, and friends, there was one woman sitting alone. From her attire, posture, and vibe, it seemed as though she wasn't a simple commoner. Was she alone on purpose or was something wrong? Either way, it would be upsetting if she remained alone with so many fun things to do! Sadie knew the ache of feeling alone, and didn’t want this woman to contend with it longer than she had too.

While in her reverie, she had moved towards her at a calm but purposeful pace and stopped once she was close enough. Sadie blinked in surprise, then mustered a gracious smile and waved, whilst knowing Verrick would have her head. She remained cautious, but polite and friendly, and greeted her.

”Hi! I’m Sadie - Princess Sadie of Varian Kingdom-” She giggled and corrected herself and continued. ”I see you’re sitting alone and wanted to know if you’d like some company? It’s okay if not! I just… I just know what it’s like to be.. To be alone…I can just go away too if you’d prefer?” Oh no. Had she said too much? Would she annoy her like she annoyed Leo? Would Verrick be disappointed in her? The questions raced through Sadie’s mind, but not as fast her own heart was.