Potter

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 7pm!
Location: Sorian Park Dinner Under Fireworks
Interactions: @Mole Prince Felix, @JJ Doe Fritz, @Tpartywithzombi @Rodiak Zarai/Matthias
Aesthetic: Dress, Hair, Flower Crown, Purple Flats

---

Sadie nodded in agreement to what Felix said. His honest words caused her to think for a moment. Considering her past, he was wise to be cautious. It was curious that he’d given her the note, especially so boldly in front of everyone else. It was something to think about while being cautious. Sadie continued to smile as not to alert others to what she felt or thought. Sadie did not want to ruin anything for the others!

”Of course! Very wise words from our future king.” She wrapped an arm around her brother and pinched his cheeks teasingly. Then, she looked at the others with a grin. ”Did everyone enjoy their food? The night? The fireworks were beautiful! Just like everyone here.”

She giggled and ruffled Lukas’ hair and looked at Matthias. ”Your son and you are so beautiful! You are a great family. I am thankful you are here.”

Sadie turned to address Count Fritz. ”What a good dragon you are.” Her voice went back to being light and teasing. ”Shall I dub you The Varian Dragon?”

Her gaze traveled to the pummeled yet beautiful Zarai and her heart sank. ”We are so glad you came to join us. Please let me know if there’s anything at all I can do for you. I would like to visit you tomorrow or this week! We should go clothes shopping!”

Unfortunately, John and Roman had left. She didn’t know what was going on, but she hoped they were all right!

Sadie stood up and clasped her hands together. ”This has been a great evening! Thank you all for attending! Would anyone like to take the carriage with me back to our guesthouse? If so follow me, ” She then went to the carriage, and anyone that followed also was given a ride back to the castle.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 7pm!
Location: Sorian Park Dinner Under Fireworks
Interactions: @ReusableSword Roman, @Mole Prince Felix, @Conscripts John, @JJ Doe Fritz @Tpartywithzombi @Rodiak Zarai/Matthias, @Blizz Lyra
Aesthetic: Dress, Hair, Flower Crown, Purple Flats

---

“I doubt his honesty, as flattering as his letter may appear to be. I would only advise caution, dearest sister.”

“Of course! But I do think it was a very sweet letter. How romantic, huh?” Sadie admitted to Felix with a smile, though she felt cautious herself. After a past like hers, romance could be frightening, especially from one she did not know well yet. Sadie wanted to keep the mood light so she added, ”It’s like something out of a fairytale book.”

She glanced over at the sweet little Lukas as he stacked pillows with Matthias and Mary. “Matthias, you’re such a good father, it really warms my heart! May I help build the castle?” Sadie took a moment to stack a pillow as well with a giggle.

It was such an endearing and hilarious sight to watch Count Fritz pretend to be a dragon with Lukas. While they were playing, she decided to address Lyra’s words. “ No disruption at all, Lyra. Please sit and enjoy some food with us.”

"Oh, of course. He certainly has a way with words, doesn't he? But, they all find their way with words when they see a prize they want. Mind yourself around men like this, Sadie," Lyra said, "Men are rarely worth your hand in marriage, especially as a princess. So many men these days only want the status of a wealthy woman's name, and not the love in her heart. Most are more trouble than they're worth." She said.

“You’re right, Lyra… We must carefully guard our hearts. Not everyone is as nice as they seem… However.” She gently took the brunette’s hand and said with a smile to Lyra,“It is okay for us to look for the good in others with some caution of course, don’t you think?”

As she glanced over, she saw that Lukas had been triumphant in his battle. Sadie applauded and came over to give the sweet child a kiss on the head. “Lukas! You’re my hero! I can’t believe how brave you are!”

Time passed as everyone enjoyed their food. Roman had stepped out to speak with Violet during it, and Sadie hoped everything to be alright. The fireworks sparkled and exploded in the night sky above them as they had enjoyed their treats. Sadie was completely enchanted by them. As the show began to finish, she looked upon everyone as it had been nearly an hour since they had sat together.

“Is everyone having fun? I hope the food was great! ” She asked softly and could not help but look back at the adorable little Lukas. “Lukas, I’ve felt so safe in this castle you’ve built me! Thank you so much. Are you having fun? …Do you wanna play hide and seek with me?”

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Southwest of Roshmi City
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn ❄ @Lava Alckon Bardulf ❄ @FunnyGuy Mister Luum ❄ @Tae Brigette ❄ @Pink Khione Zeva
Mentions:
Equipment: Small backpack, two knives, rations, water flask, hygiene products, polearm, outfit

From everyone’s attacks, the owlbear was now defeated. Rue let out a relieved sigh, unaware she had been holding her breath. Bardulf had taken shelter behind her after attacking the owlbear; Mr Luum, after stepping away, had returned and melted the owlbear’s face off; the young elven girl had contributed, and Bowyn had used ice to entrap it. The situation had occurred quickly for her, and she had been quietly rooted to the spot. The danger had her adrenaline pumping while her mind’s eye saw the bodies of three dark elves falling to the ground. As a result, the mixture of excitement, anxiety, fear, and will to fight had melted together and forced her to remain still. Rue hadn’t meant to sit there silently watching, yet she seemed frozen herself.

She stared at the owlbear, contemplating why it had attacked unexpectedly. Had this elven girl been too close to its territory? Did it have a family it was protecting? She had seen owlbears at the arena, trapped and used for training purposes and also fun for the enforcer’s. While she hadn’t been close to the creatures, she had learned they had been stolen from their families. Her chest tightened. She hadn’t been able to save them. Rue clenched her fists and turned away. There wasn’t any use in sitting here deep in thought; they had a human to protect in a hostile city up ahead, with a reckless young elven woman who could betray them and their innocent human.

Rue tore her gaze away from it and met Bowyn’s. He would be the only one who would've understood her actions and thoughts. Despite the ice they both wielded and the cold they desired, he always created a warmth in her that nobody else could. An apology was in her eyes, before it disappeared, replaced with sorrow for the animal they had slain and pride for Bardulf’s quick reaction. Leaving the owlbear behind without profiting off it and allowing someone to take their victory nauseated her, but protecting their human overwhelmed the need to pull it. Still, she could pay her respects to the creature. She moved over to the owlbear’s carcass to murmur a quiet prayer for it.

Finally, she joined Bowyn and Bardulf with her usual limp, and wrapped an arm around Bowyn’s side. Then, she set her hand on Bardulf’s shoulder. ”You don’t need to apologize, Bardulf. This is new for you, and that was quite a big owlbear. I’m proud of how you reacted, and I hope you can find the pride for yourself within you.” Rue then let her hand slip from him and turned to Bowyn as she gestured with her head towards the elven woman.

”I don’t know how I feel about her right now. I’m not sure if I want her around Bardulf.” Rue remained cautious and kept an eye on the newcomer, while beckoning Starfire to join her. The pegasus joined and huffed at the stranger, letting it be known she would not tolerate any tomfoolery towards the group.

”Stay close to us, Bardulf.” Her voice was quiet enough for only them to hear.Rue held onto the polearm and eyed the situation with a narrowed gaze.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 6pm
Location: Guest Dining Room
Attire: Her dress
Interactions:
@Rodiak Nahir, @13org Mayet, @Lava Alckon Farim, @Helo Leo. @princess Charlotte, @FunnyGuy Lorenzo @Inertia Auguste, Ariella@Tpartywithzombi Nahir @Rodiak

Layla glared towards Charlotte. What could she possibly have to say? The stupid girl would have been wise to hang her head in shame as always. It was obvious as she spoke that she was still a shaking little mouse and could not ever hope to stand as strong a woman as the Alidasht women. She did little to hold back sounds of restrained laughter as the girl proclaimed her pride in her moron of a father. Layla could not believe she even had the nerve to look at Mayet and her and speak. She simply narrowed her eyes at Charlotte once they met hers.

Apparently, the vampiric doll had the nerve and turned to talk down to her uncle. The way she had spoken to him reminded her of one reprimanding a child. Layla felt fury rise in her and she looked at Mayet in disbelief. It was clear from the look on Mayet’s face that the feeling was shared.

"I think you aren't well aware of how serious your father's offense was against us, both on the welcoming ball and now, Lady Charlotte. For you to speak about decorum, civility and respect after everything your father has done towards us is laughable, to say the least. I will warn you and your father one last time..."

"Do not try my patience."

”And don’t you dare ever look at Mayet like that again.” Layla added ferociously.

Hafiz responded accordingly and with cunning. Layla was not a stranger to her uncle’s manipulative tactics. Though perhaps there had been a split second of sympathy, it was more fun to watch it directed toward someone other than herself. Due to the subtle threat toward Charlotte that went over his head, it didn’t seem as if he was intelligent enough to notice. Layla decided she couldn’t blame him for that, because from what she understood, she wasn’t even his real daughter.

Then, Duke Lorenzo was stupid enough to keep trying his luck with the Grand Vizier. Layla wondered if he had ever said anything remotely intelligent in his life. Somehow the Prince of Caesonia agreed with him, which was another bizarre story. Is everyone in this Kingdom on drugs?

Luckily, her father put a stop to the petty arguments and called for the food. Layla could not be bothered to be surprised that the duke thought hummus was whipped peanut butter. Furthermore, the notion of him leading grace was absurd. Thus, she turned to Mayet fondly. Her eyes sparkled with pride at her youngest sister. “Let’s start a new tradition. Idiots who cannot hold their tongues should lose them.” she whispered to Mayet, so the others couldn’t hear.

Then a burst of inspiration came from her. If they were to indulge in this ridiculous grace, she had other plans. Layla gazed up at Zilal and whispered to him and watched as he slithered off her chair. The snake disappeared onto the floor and under the table carefully to avoid people’s feet. Then, once he found Charlotte’s chair, he began to slither up the back of it silently until wrapping around by her head. Once he was positioned and the vampiric doll’s eyes were shut, he would unleash a loud, menacing hiss and then return quickly under the table and back to her side. Layla had learned the trick in her earlier life from Hafiz, so she knew he would also find it amusing.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Sorian Park Dinner Under Fireworks
Interactions: @ReusableSword Roman, @Mole Prince Felix, @Conscripts John, @JJ Doe Fritz @Tpartywithzombi @Rodiak Zarai/Matthias @Lava Alckon Drake
Aesthetic: Dress, Hair, Flower Crown, Purple Flats

---

Sadie kept her gaze on John as he spoke. Her gaze seemed to twinkle like the stars above them with a radiant smile pasted across her face. When he mentioned having “hiccups” her gaze became down casted briefly. ”What kind of hiccups? Is anyone messing with my kingdom?” Her voice was teasing, but there was a ferocity at bay. Nobody messed with her subjects! She pretended to crack her knuckles, which would’ve looked intimidating if it wasn’t her. Her glare contrasted her sweet disposition, which melted away like cookies in milk when she softened.

A familiar voice spoke up, and she turned to find Count Fritz. She nodded in response to his bow and dipped her head respectfully. Behind him, he was accompanied by Lady Violet Damien. A chill ran down her spine, unrelated to the cool night air. Her gaze lingered on Violet and took note of her odd appearance. Red eyes, limp hair, giant scar…. What happened to the poor dear? Contemplating the matter without more information was futile, so she smiled broadly. Sadie pretended not to notice the cane either (what was with that?) and extended her hands to her. The woman spoke, and her voice was void of any emotion or thought. What on earth?

”You will not be a bother. You’re free to join us, Violet.” Sadie glanced towards Count Fritz curiously, then folded her hands. ”Fireworks are a delight, and the more the merrier! We have plenty of food here for you, if you’re interested.” Sadie gestured to her collection and moved over to provide her some space.

Her attention diverted to Roman. As he described the afternoon with the other blacksmiths, she smiled kindly. ”They’ll definitely turn out well with you as their teacher! I will stop by tomorrow. How does that sound? I am working on a new invention I think they would enjoy. I am trying to create a fireproof sword.”

Shrugging it off, she went to return to the others when an arm wrapped around her shoulders. Her heart rate accelerated by the unexpected movement; however, the speaker caused her to relax once she recognized it. ”Yes I wanted to see the fireworks. You are welcome to join us. As for my sibling, Prince Felix-” she broke off and gestured to him with a broad smile, ”-is my brother. The rest are part of my kingdom.” Sadie smiled and bent down to pick up food to eat. ”How nice we can all enjoy the evening together! Make sure to eat and drink, everyone!”

In the background, Sadie noticed an unfamiliar gentleman moving towards her. She turned to catch his eye and smiled pleasantly, despite not knowing him. As he spoke, she listened with a head tilt and her eyebrows rose. The man was delivering her a …letter? For her? Oh my! Sadie’s cheeks rivaled her dress when she picked it up. She quickly unraveled the letter and began to read it. As she read it, she nudged Felix with her foot to join her.

The Letter

Easier reading

Dear Princess Camilia,

You are the symbol of beauty. I find you are impossible to look away from, yet I tremble with the premise of possibly talking to you for fear of my words not being able to leave my mouth. Your eyes compare to oceans that span across the world, vast and captivating. Your hair is like waves upon a gorgeous shore, tempting all who see to bask in the waves. I haven't known you for long, if really much at all. But I wanted to share some hopefully well-received words of endearment and invite you for some brunch tomorrow morning. If you may need another day, I will happily accommodate. If this isn't in your best interests, then I humbly understand.

Signed, Your not-so-secret admirer Drake Edwards

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Southwest of Roshmi City
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn ❄ @Lava Alckon Bardulf ❄ @FunnyGuy Mister Luum ❄ @Tae Brigette ❄ @Pink Khione Zeva
Mentions:
Equipment: Small backpack, two knives, rations, water flask, hygiene products, polearm, outfit

"OWLBEAR INCOMING! HELP!! Holy crap, GET OUT OF THE WAY!!"

“So you thought, lead the owlbear toward others, let someone else sort out your mess. Great plan, typical elf logic."

Throughout the journey, she remained at Bowyn's side, and after a couple of miles, she hopped onto Starfire’s back. Mister Luum insisted they give the human a scenic view of Avalia. It was a decision Rue initially was torn on; the longer they remained in the public view, the sooner Bardulf could be spotted. Now they were being rushed by an Owlbear with a human. Rue watched the scene unfold with a frown and folded her arms.

Without waiting, Rue used her polearm to push Bardulf away from the danger. Then, her gaze traveled to Bowyn. "It’ll be okay.” She assured him with a mischievous grin while slipping off Starfire’s back. Her Pegasus whinnied at the danger and pawed at the ground aggressively.

As the owlbear charged towards them, Rue sprang into action. With a fierce determination in her eyes, she lunged forward, her polearm extended in front of her. She stood her ground, ready to face the beast head-on. When the owlbear readied itself to pounce, Rue raised her hand, and a shimmering wall of ice shot up from the ground. The ice was thick and solid, rising to a height and width of nearly ten feet. It would buy everyone the reaction time they needed.

"Get ready while you can, everyone.” Rue’s voice remained calm, but firm, and didn’t offer suggestions to deviate from it.

The owlbear charged towards the ice wall and slammed into the wall with a deafening roar, but the ice held firm. The beast snarled and clawed at the wall, but it still could not break through. Rue stood behind the wall with her eyes fixed on the owlbear. Rue steadied her rapid breathing and watched the owlbear intently. Its eyes moved sideways and it began to slowly stalk its way around the wall with a low growl. ”The ice won’t hold for long – it’s too warm here. Hurry!”

Rue took on an attack stance once more and readied her pole arm. Her gaze became colder than the ice she’d created and she moved a step in front of Bardulf.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

---

Time: 6pm
Location: Castle Dining Room
Attire: Suit
Interactions: @Silverpaw Wulfric @Princess Anastasia

---

Ezra rose from his bow once he’d been addressed by Edin. He smiled politely. Despite being bemused by the queen’s volatile reaction, he remained cordial and professional. He did not interrupt anyone as they spoke so he could analyze their reactions. The King, foolish as ever, was elated to see him. He chuckled at the ‘surprising everyone’ commentary and bit his lip. The surprise was worth it. He was here, in the castle, with the dumbass King, his cold and snake-like wife and son, and the loveliest princess in the world. None could compar- he was getting ahead of himself; he quickly stopped his thought process before it showed in his eyes.

Once Anastasia greeted him, he glanced in his direction. ”Good evening, Your Highness.” he greeted her politely. There wasn’t anything venomous, cold, or cunning in his voice: it was cordial, professional, and cheerful. ”I would say the same to you but I do not know if that is allowed.”

Then the ghostly prince spoke and Ezra felt his stomach lurch. This cold, snake-like pest would have to be dealt with accordingly. He’d make sure to speak with his… team, regarding him. Ezra remained professional nonetheless while he addressed Wulfric. ”Your Majesty.” he replied smoothly. Ezra watched with amusement as he ordered servants to inspect everything. There wasn’t anything dangerous, conniving, nor malicious inside. He remained silent while the eldest prince spoke. Deep inside, a fire kindled that promised murder for Wulfric at his earliest convenience. What would you know, you ghostly looking snake? You will die the most horrid death Caesonia has ever seen, you lonesome, detestable slimeball.

He frowned a bit then nodded understandingly. ”Very well. I hope you have enjoyed our bakery. I crafted these all day for your delight. Please let me know if they are not satisfactory. I will do my utmost best to salvage the situation. Have a good evening.” Ezra turned to walk away with a frown while remaining professional and courteous.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Sorian Park Dinner Under Fireworks
Interactions: [@Reuseable Sword] Roman, @Mole Prince Felix, @Conscripts John, @Helo Leo @JJ Doe Fritz
Aesthetic: Dress, Hair, Flower Crown, Purple Flats

---

Sadie felt her excitement might burst out of her like the fireworks in the sky when Dr. John had joined. “Oh my Gods, it’s Doctor John! Helloooo!!” She rose from the blanket and embraced him in a warm hug. ”It’s been a wonderful day and I’m so happy you’re here with me. Thank you for coming! I have all the food out so please come help yourself to whatever you want. How was your day? Did you do anything fun? Interesting?“

The next to arrive was her precious brother. Sadie gave him a bigger hug if such was possible. “My darling Felix! You have no idea how much you mean to me! I have greatly missed you!!” She squeezed him tighter than necessary and continued. “I want to hear everything about your day; after everyone else arrives!” She whirled on her heels happily to face the next newcomer with the bright smiles.

Lady Zarai was next to arrive. Sadie smiled broadly and ran up to greet her, then stopped dead in her tracks. What was wrong with her face! Who had hurt such a precious girl? Her eyebrows furrowed and her fists clenched. “Oh my - wow. Okay, first of all you’re as beautiful as ever and I promise that! BUT secondly, what happened to you, Lady Zarai?” The princess looked down at her with a frown and concern. Sadie did not want to cause her any more pain so she bit her lip and contemplated the scenario. “I want to give you a hug, sweetie, but I don’t want to hurt you… Here!” She took her hand in hers and squeezed them gently. “Hand hug!”

Another hug was locked and loaded for Roman once he arrived. She ran toward him and threw her arms around the big bear, despite his bow. “Romann!!! Roman!!! I’m so excited you’re here!! Please help yourself to whatever you want! I need you to tell me everything about the blacksmith workshop today! Please?” She watched as he then sat with Zarai. Sadie practically vibrated with energy and joy. She clasped her hands together, beaming from ear to ear.

The last but not least to arrive was Matthias, with the adorable Lukas and Mary in tow. “Hi Matthias! Hi! So happy to see you! ” She waved to him as they arrived. All three of them of course received a hug; however, she knelt down before Lukas for a moment. Sadie brushed hair out of his eyes and clasped his hands gently. “Lukas you’re getting so big and so handsome! You have no idea how happy I am to see you, little sweetie! Tell you what, if you want any games, toys or desserts, I’ll get you whatever you want, okay? You say the word and I will make sure it’s yours, cutiepie!”

Once all were seated, she addressed them all with an even brighter smile. “Thank you all for coming! I have bought as much food as I can think of for you to enjoy! Please let me know if I can get you anything else!” She smiled warmly at them all then sat next to Felix, beaming. ”Who would like to talk about their day first? Go ahead! I’m all ears!” Sadie giggled and gestured to them jokingly and waited.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

---

Time: 6pm
Location: Castle Dining Room
Attire: Suit
Interactions: @Silverpaw Wulfric @Princess Anastasia

---

From dawn until dusk, the lonesome baker had prepared over a dozen different desserts. Each of them were exquisitely designed with the utmost attention to detail. There were several cakes, each with a different flavoring; except for three. After… events, he’d discovered the king’s favorite and thus baked three different chocolate cakes with chocolate frosting. He’d gone as far as to create a crown on top of each cake. The rest of them were vanilla, strawberry, and red velvet. Besides the cakes he had also planned cupcakes, cheesecakes, and also brownies. They were as meticulous as the cakes. Indeed, all of them had a special… kick to them. Ezra had closed his bakery to the public and forced everyone to work a twelve hour shift without stopping. For compensation, well, the details weren’t important.

Now the time had come to present his gifts to the king. This had to go well. If it didn’t, the first person to die would be the bakers he’d worked alongside all day. If it didn’t go well, Faith and Torie would suffer severe consequences even if they were his number one and two comrades. If he didn’t win this night over, he’d have to plan more. However, patience had been his virtue, but he knew it would wear thin eventually. He was so close and yet so far, but the goal in mind wasn’t unattainable… The party hadn’t been a success and he couldn’t remember the night. All he knew was he had left and his precious girl wasn’t with him. If this didn’t go well, it wasn’t hard to picture the scene.

The one obstacle in his way would be the unnerving and ghostly prince Wulfric. That damn prize of the Danroses would have to go first. He was a carbon copy of the queen, and thus he’d have to play his cards right. He was far too intelligent, unlike his youngest foolish brother, Callum. The mere thought of such filth being in the presence of his princess made him shudder. Auguste was good with the sword; however, that miserable and kind oaf wouldn’t be too hard to dispatch if he were caught… unaware. Ezra knew the two princes had won their matches at the Sword competition and knew he’d have to… intervene if he wanted to knock them off their pedestals.

He wore an expensive suit he’d acquired… illegally. The shopkeeper had mysteriously gone missing in order for them to have it. Ezra fixed his tie and smoothed down his hair and grinned in the mirror. This would go well. His goal would be put into motion and the rest would be his for the taking. Ezra had taken a carriage and horse which Faith tended to while he was in the castle. Carrying his gifts amongst some of the other workers he had forced to come with him, he was soon led to the dining room.

”Your Highness and Majesty,” Ezra greeted as he bowed and smiled up at him. “It is my honor to be here. Thank you so much for having me. I hope you enjoy the desserts. They were baked with the utmost care.” Out of the corner of his eyes, he watched his servants set the food down with the utmost care and precision. He nodded to them to leave and waited to be spoken to and seated. For now, Ezra kept his gaze downcast for respect, but couldn’t help but glance towards the love of his life, Princess Anastasia.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 6pm
Location: Guest Dining Room
Attire: Her dress
Interactions:
@Rodiak Nahir, @13org Mayet, @Lava Alckon Farim, @Helo Leo. @princess Charlotte, @FunnyGuy Lorenzo @Inertia Auguste, Ariella@Tpartywithzombi

Layla turned to see Nahir join her and gave her a polite nod. Their conversation earlier remained in her thought process, but she chose not to dwell on it. Whatever happened would be revealed soon enough. The question from Nahir seemed innocuous, but the underlying tone of it was not. From Layla’s peripheral vision, she noticed Nahir’s lips slightly turn upward. Briefly, Layla’s eyes narrowed, but the expression was gone as quickly as it came.

We are one in the same, are we not, sister? She turned her attention away and smirked into her wine instead, choosing not to reply. Two can play this game, little sister.

Thankfully, Mayet intervened and her youngest sister’s words caused her to chuckle. However, the conversation veered towards her fight again and Layla had to take a moment to collect herself. She took a sip of her wine and rolled her eyes. ”Please, she was nothing but a toy to play with.”

Finally, the fools of Caseonia arrived and the conversation shifted away entirely. They hadn’t come empty-handed; two men were carrying a large pile of gifts. For a moment, Layla found herself possibly impressed; that is, until the duke began rambling. At this point, Zilal shifted around her neck to rise into the air and let out a menacing hiss. Layla rubbed her temples and took an extra long sip of wine and glanced towards the bottle in hopes it would refill itself. Fortunately, the Duke had a stroke of genius them all; and once he addressed her, she rolled her eyes. Him, the better dancer? The fool had stepped on her dress hem. Layla scoffed and said nothing. If she responded, the fool would continue talking. She scrutinized their attire and then made eye contact with Charlotte and a malicious grin spread over her face. It was one that promised vengeance and misery. Layla didn’t break the contact first and stared her down with the same grin on her face until the miserable and sickly pale doll turned away.

The duke continued his ramble, now turning his attention to Mayet. Layla watched their interaction play out and chuckled into her wine glass. How did this fool live to be this old? Even Nala seemed disturbed by his presence. These dinners, though annoying, would prove entertaining, and she couldn’t wait for the meal to begin. Just when this bumbling idiot seemed to get it together, he lost it moments later. Layla nearly choked on her wine at Mayet’s comment regarding Charlotte. She quickly caught herself and laughed snidely towards the sickly, pale doll. However, Nahir didn’t seem to enjoy this comment, and Layla glanced at her with a bemused expression.

The bumbling idiot continued his fifteen minutes of idiocy. He sat in the Grand Vizier’s seat. Layla froze and stared incredulously at him. For a moment, she was speechless. Memories threatened to resurface which she quickly pushed back. Mayet spoke up first in a warning but it fell on deaf ears. Layla poured herself more wine and began sipping it as a smirk crossed her face. It’s been all of five minutes and you’re in waters hotter than the sands of Alidasht, Duke. Nahir tried to play the peacemaker, but all of it fell on deaf ears.

Unfortunately, there wasn’t time to recuperate from the error because now her uncle had arrived. Layla glanced away and instead began to examine the napkin in front of her. She felt her uncle’s gaze but didn’t meet it, and readied herself for the next moment of buffoonery. From the corner of her eye, she watched Hafiz approach Lorenzo. She shifted and bit her lip to restrain laughter. The duke, instead of apologizing and moving, decided to counter Hafiz’ words and Layla glanced at Mayet with amusement and pity in her eyes.

Throughout this ramble session, Layla sighed and rubbed her temples. She drank more wine and wondered how someone could be so dumb and be allowed to become a man in power. Had it been a joke that got out of hand? Her gaze landed on Charlotte and she allowed the grin to return again before it disappeared. Layla avoided eye contact with the others while Hafiz prepared his next move.

“There is no need to act in such a way to the Sultan’s guests, especially in front of Prince Auguste and our other guests.” Nahir spoke up, then continued. “Why should he not sit there, uncle? Duke Vikena is the reason why we are gathered here, to enjoy each other’s company and learn from one another; Duke, please take a seat. I beseech you to forget his rude words. The Grand Vizier may have skipped breakfast after all.”

The voice of reason, the peacemaker, the subtle one. Layla stared ahead of her over Prince Auguste’s head and awaited the next moment. She remained silent and rubbed her head once more, whether it was from the stress of the situation or something else, it was unknown. One thing was clear to the oldest Shehzadi: Hafiz’s reaction would not be a pretty sight. She glanced towards Lorenzo and shook her head.

”Leaving so soon? Like a dog running with its tail tucked between its legs? What kind of example is that for Charlotte? You have shown us that not only are you a bumbling fool, but a coward at that. What a pity. Heed my Uncle’s words and give him his chair. He has well earned his spot; meanwhile, you should earn our respect after what you have done. You are also holding up our dinner and we could use a taste of Alidasht after the disaster you have bestowed.” She briefly met Hafiz’s gaze and let out the tiniest of smiles before letting her haughty smirk return. In agreement, Zilal uncoiled from her neck and hissed angrily at the chaos. She glanced at him and rubbed his head gently with a smirk.