princess

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time:12pm
Location: Park of Sorian
Attire:Dress
Interaction:@Lava Alckon Farim @Rodiak Nahir @Potter Layla

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Anastasia had led the group over to the game, her eyes lighting up as she looked upon the prize shelf. A little old lady in a periwinkle dress was shuffling three cups faster than anyone's eyes could follow. The sound of coins jingling underneath the cups could be heard but not seen. "Welcome to Coins under the Cup. All you have to do is pick the cup with the most coins underneath to win. One cup may have nothing, one may have a little something, but if you luck out and pick the one with the largest amount of coin, you win a big prize!" There were small and large prizes on the shelf nearby her. Some were stuffed animals again while others seemed to be other types of trinkets.

With a grin, the woman looked to Farim first, "Traditionally ladies go first, but I don't like traditions. So you can go first. " She gestured ceremoniously to three cups. About twelve gold coins were situated on the table. With a nefarious grin she suddenly became moving the cups around speedily, engulfing the coins into them and tossing them about the table chaotically. Finally, she came to a stop. The coins were nowhere to be seen. "Left, middle or right?"

"You can do this, Farim. Use your Alidasht intuition!"

Hunter's Game (Small Private Group)

Alice Varo

Alice found the situation distasteful. It was either disgusting that Maeve felt that they needed competition to feel motivated toward protecting people or she knew those she called were too cold to care otherwise. She took her piece of paper and glanced at it before crumbling it in her fist. A bruja with a reptilian guard. Considering the lack of information and the number of people called, she decided this was not something to underestimate, though she was sure the others would. She made her way over to Nikolai, who she was annoyed with. He had been lightheartedly joking around, winking at them, sticking a finger in her gun...She rolled her eyes at the memory and came to stand beside him and the man with Buki. She resisted the urge to kneel down and touch it. Instead, she averted her gaze from all of them and folded her arms.

Both of them seemed to be in cheerful spirits as if this was all a game. This wasn't a competition nor a fun party game- People's lives were at stake. Their homes, their families, and everything they had ever known. Alice did not care if this was an easy nor a difficult mission. She just wanted to slaughter whatever foul beasts were out there greedily taking what was precious from the innocent.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 12pm
Location: Vikena Estate
Interactions:@Tae Thea @JJ Doe △△△
Attire:Dress, Booties, Hair ribbon

---

Charlotte had expected Fritz to be vexed with her, but his reaction perhaps made her feel worse. Though he was correct that she had very well felt that Lorenzo had not been in the garden, it was not out of possibility that he had simply been well hidden in the dark and now she had poor Fritz believing her to be reliable when she was simply a silly girl. She had such a long night at the ball, was it really out of sorts for her to miss his sleeping body in the dark? She wasn’t even all too sure if all their house staff had checked the garden too or if it had just been her who had done so. Nonetheless, his next words did strike deep within her as she slunk back in her chair.

He was absolutely correct that intuition was not to be ignored. It had been the saving grace in many situations, yet she still found herself doubting herself despite urging others not to. The fact was, that no matter how she tried to ignore her thoughts, she knew deep down the situation did not make any sense. Lorenzo had wept for her mercy then abandoned her at the ball alone on the same night just to curl up in their garden bed? The man had always been a little strange, but he had always been kind to her. And because of that kind heart of his, she did not believe Lorenzo would lie to her face.

He had even seemed a little confused as to how she could have not seen him.

Calbert’s face crossed her mind and she visibly grimaced. Could there be villainy at work here? Was Lorenzo kidnapped? She tapped her fingers on the teacup she held. It had been some time since she had drunk from it. Her gaze slid slightly to Delilah as she returned with cards, tea, and some finger sandwiches for lunch. After setting all on the coffee table, the blonde maid had immediately moved around the seat to squeeze Charlotte’s shoulder. The dark-haired girl had reached up to touch her hand affectionately. She knew Delilah had many questions she was waiting to unleash once the guests had left.

At the idea of a card game, Charlotte had perked up visibly, “Maybe rich man, poor man? Bridge? Oh! Delilah and I like to play a game with the other staff called Liar, Liar… Poor Nathaniel is always bested as he tends to flare his nostrils whenever he lies... ” Her voice had drawn off as she found herself distracted by Count Fritz. Oh right. That party he mentioned. Her mind flashed the first time he brought it up. It had not stuck too much in her mind then, but it was starting to sound as if a massive amount of people were drugged. She sat up straight, her eyes locked on the cards seemingly as he shuffled.

What had actually transpired, well, it could have been quite anything. Though it was a lead, Charlotte found herself with a list of more questions.

“That is troubling.” She commented quietly to herself. Her gaze rose to comment further only to find herself eye to eye with Count Fritz as he said something she had least expected.

"...I beg your pardon?"

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Calbert & Kazumin

Part 2

---

The cowlicked blonde strode along after where he would soon lay eyes on the main hall where he quickly took notice of how far more spacious and fancy the mansion was compared to Asteroth’s. He spun around in place on his heels taking in the sights in awe but not for the reasons most typical visitors would.* Dang..I bet this place could house nearly half the village and still have plenty of room.* Chuckling internally as he wondered how Percy would take seeing such an unnecessarily huge house. Probably not well he envisioned.

He spun to a stop only to find Lord Calbert standing before him forcing him to crane his neck to look up at the man. Was he always this tall? A normal person of sane mind might have been intimidated or feeling uncertain but Kazu had latched onto the mention of brunch bringing that wide grin to his face once more. “Yes, of course! Lead the way.” So eager and anxious to finally get food in his empty belly he nearly forgot. “ Ah! I mean, my lord. *nailed it*” Muttering the last part under his breath

Calbert led him through an archway and soon into the dining room where there would be breakfast laid out. There were fluffy eggs on a beautiful serving plate on one end. A plate of crispy, juicy bacon was also available as this was a favorite of Calbert’s. Tender sausages and well-seasoned breakfast potatoes were also available. The smells would welcome Kazumin like an old lover as he had returned from the war. There was even a fruit salad and some delicious, home-made vanilla pudding.

The dining room itself was as cold as the rest of the house with light grey walls. It gave a sense of emptiness despite the regal fireplace across from the table. There was a large mirror above the fireplace with an intricate design that showcased its absurd worth. Colossal windows allowed entry for rays of light into the dark room as the maids pulled back the curtains upon their entry. They were all on one side of the room. The tablecloth itself was rather plain but obviously expensive as well. The chandelier creaked

Kazu followed along a short distance behind, admiring the intricately designed walls and decorations and fighting the urge to explore as he went. The poor lad not even once taking into consideration why such a powerful and well off noble like the count would bother with a peasant nobody or go out of his way to invite him for brunch. And with the long trek of silence leaving him to his thoughts, the blonde farmer almost started to ponder on exactly that until the familiar and wondrous scent of food struck his nostrils. In an instant the world around him melted away until only the presence of food remained; beckoning him like an old lover. A siren call that urged him onward towards the dining hall with a haste in his steps and before long laid his eyes on the beloved treasure so cruelly denied him hours earlier.

“Please sit down and make yourself comfortable. Help yourself to the food. If you don’t mind, I’d like to discuss a few matters about the ball while we enjoy this… meal.”

His sparkling eyes went wide upon receiving permission to eat. As soon as he said the words Kazu appeared in the nearest chair almost seeming to have teleported to it where he rubbed his hands together. “ Don’t mind if I do!” Exclaimed the blonde who wasted no time in digging in and appeasing the vicious grumbling coming from his tummy.

Calbert sat across from him, immediately disgusted as the man started to dig in… Yet he couldn’t bring his eyes away from the terrible sight. Pig. He waited patiently until it was clear Kazu was engrossed in food heaven. That was when he spoke. “There's something that has kept me quite vexed, Kazumin…” He began to cut a sausage neatly with his knife. His eyes raised with intent to peer into his very soul as he asked, “What did you do to make my Crystal cry?”

His hands flew across the table grabbing strips of bacon and plates of eggs; whatever was within reach his hands snatched up to pile onto his own plate. As the blonde had a one track-mind to appease his voracious appetite and far be it from him to not enjoy such a delicious spread the host so kindly had prepared. Muffled groans of delight and choked sobs could be heard as he chowed down and did so knowing this would be his last enjoyable meal for the next two weeks and intended to savor every single scrumptious bite. Yet, as hungry as he was he held an iota of restraint to eat with some decorum by not just shoving and scarfing it down like the pig Calbert viewed him as. A sign some of the etiquette training had taken hold in his food obsessed brain.

Kazu ate away, each bite making the suffering and pain endured this morning be forgotten and forgiven. Combined with the drug, the farm boy was in a blissful high of decadent flavors.

Then the count spoke of Crystal causing his food paradise to shatter and come crashing down. This led into a choking fit that left his face turning multiple shades though through it all he kept his mouth closed to keep food from flying not wishing to be gross, rude and wasteful of the food. His left hand swiped up a glass of water to aid in gulping down and freeing his clogged throat while his right hand grabbed a napkin to wipe his face. “R-right *wheeze* forgive me *cough* one moment if you please.” Holding up a finger indicating he needed a moment and turned away and lowered his head hiding his red face behind the edge of the tablecloth lined table where he could be heard coughing and patting at his chest. “Fuck..can’t believe I forgot about Crystal, you idjit!” He chastised himself in a hushed manner in between coughs and pats to cover it up.

A minute later he sat back up rejoining the table where he gave his face an eloquent dab with the napkin as if all that had just occurred didn’t happen. “Forgive me. The previous night was a long one and a rough morning as well as preparations for our brunch left me no time for breakfast so you caught me positively starving.” Said in a forced sophisticated tone trying to remember his lessons. “How rude of me to forget my manners after you so kindly welcomed me into your home which is absolutely beautiful I must say…” Trailing off as he awkwardly grabbed the half empty glass of water and lifted it to give a respectful toast. “Ahem…pardon. What was the question again?” Kazu asked with a sheepish smile, the end of his lips twitching.

Calbert made a face as the man burst into a choking fit. He made no move to aid him whatsoever and simply stared him down. He’s procrastinating answering me. Squandering away my time. It’s like he has something to hide. He started cutting and eating his bacon neatly with a fork. His jaw clenched as he shoved a bite in his mouth and chewed in the most aggressive yet polite manner. ”Kazumin. You made my daughter cry last night at the ball and I am kindly asking for your side of the story.” He swallowed hard and leaned on the table.

”What did you do?”

A nervous expression overtook his face and guilt showed in his eyes upon being reminded of the one thing he wished he had forgotten. “Yes, I imagined that was what you asked.” Shifting awkwardly on the cushioned chair while rubbing the back of his neck.

“As for what I did…well, I will state first it wasn’t anything improper like wrongful touching or crude remarks of any sort I assure you.” Laughing awkwardly with a tug of his collar, remembering the hand placement on her hip but felt it best to exclude that little slip-up. “I made sure to treat her with nothing but the utmost respect as one should treat a lady. The dance was going splendidly I might add..so much so that I thought it fun to tell a story.” Touching the tips of his fingers together in a nervous fashion as he spoke on. “Mind it was a harmless story. One involving that of a caged hamster intending to be a motivational tale of gaining courage to free herself from her prison with the aid of..a visiting friend. So..um…I suppose in my misreading her situation my story seemed to have been much too similar for her taste and…”

Stopping there as he averted his gaze in shame while twiddling his thumb. He felt horrible about it and so tried to avoid thinking about it too much until he could figure out a proper way to apologize.

Calbert was thoughtful as he listened, staring him down. A story about a hamster? What sort of person told such a story in the middle of a ball dance? The body language was not that of a man being honest with the tale he was currently spinning, that was for certain. The nervous laughter, the timorous tone, the tugging of the collar… Then there was the clear guilt that was so evident in those eyes. He scowled and struggled to keep an even tone as he asked, “Are you perhaps aware that the lie you are telling me is a ridiculous one?”

Uncertain of what to do with his fingers that he chose to grab a strip of bacon mostly to idly chew on is. Only to pause mid-chew at being accused of lying. “I um..what?” Kazu couldn’t help but blink and idly chew while trying to think of what to say when Calbert indicated he had more to say.

The last piece of bacon finished in one bite as he pulled over the eggs. “My daughter informed me that she was being stalked by you, Kazumin.” He explained further and began to cut his scrambled eggs unnecessarily, over and over. The loud sharp noise of his knife against the porcelain glass rang out every few moments and sped up in tempo with every second. “I understand very well you have your side of the story, but you cannot fault a man for favoring his daughter’s perspective, especially when such a disturbing subject is involved.” His gaze changed upon Kazumin into that of a warning glare. “You are doing very little to convince me thus far.”

It was here his decision to chew on bacon proved a mistake as yet again found himself choking this time on the small bite of bacon after hearing the count speak of stalking. “Wait *cough* what?!” Exclaimed Kazu incredulously in shock surprise; thankful to have swallowed as he would have done a spit take as he tried to regain his composure and shock. All the while tried to pay attention to Calbert carry on but the sharp noise of knife on porcelain grating to the ears made worse with the combined drumming of his erratic pounding heart. “Hold on there. Stalking?! I have done nothing of the sort..hell I didn’t even know Lady Crystal existed until we met to dance. I assure you I have no intent or interest in your daughter.” He scrambled in haste to explain and clear up this grievous misunderstanding until he realized what he said could be misconstrued as an insult.

Calbert lifted a brow.

“Not–not that she isn’t desirable or anything. Lady Crystal is an exceptionally beautiful and sweet woman. One that any man would go to hell and back for I’m sure.” Waving his hands frantically with a nervous chuckle trying to recover his unintended slight.

Coughing onto his fist while his body fidgeted nervously and felt like he was in a sweat lodge. “I have never stalked a woman in my life, sir (except for those purely with intent to swipe some of their food) as I have little..or more precisely no interest in romance or uh…what’s the word you nobles call it?” A tilt of the head trying to remember as his finger idly tapped at the half eaten bacon strip. “Courting! That’s it, right?” Checking the count’s face hoping he was correct before carrying on his nervous ramble. “So I am definitely not stalking or seeking anything from Lady Crystal besides maybe friendship.” Kazu said, scratching at his left cheek with an uncertain little chuckle then he leaned forward, his face finally getting a bit serious.”But, my lord, if there is one thing that I am absolutely sure of and you can ask anyone who knows me to be true, it is that I am not one who lies. And…that I enjoy telling tales. What I told you before is the truth and though my hunger took over I came here with the intent to apologize to Lady Crystal for my tactless misunderstanding of her situation.”

On this he spoke clearly and confidently finishing with a big bite of the bacon as if taking a chunk of victory.

Not a peep left Calbert’s mouth after those little numbers. He averted his gaze to the eggs and tapped the table, deep in thought. After a long, tense minute, he nodded, raising his eyes again. “I suppose that makes sense.” It was unclear what he truly was thinking, but he seemed satisfied outwardly… with that portion. “Well then. Moving on.” He rose from his seat suddenly. Before Kazumin could even move, he was back and slamming the Caesonia News in front of his face. He leaned over the table with dilated pupils, tapping the picture of Persephone.

“Do you know her?”

He hoped this explanation was enough to clear up any misunderstanding and showed he had done no harm nor intended any. Though Calbert’s persistent silence and body language offered him no answer leaving Kazu nothing to do but sit there anxiously as he idly chewed on some more bacon. Then the man’s abrupt standing had him pause and watch the count with a curious twitch of the brow.

Chewing quietly in an uncertain idle manner pondering what aggrieved father was planning. At least until his attention began to wander due to the drug having his focus shift from plate to plate; zooming this way and that over the table before shooting onto the unexpected picture of Persephone which seemed to have appeared from thin air. “Oh, Percy! What I would give to have her here…she’s missing out on such a delicious brunch.” Kazu said with a brightening grin.

“Percy…” He said tightly. The fury could no longer be concealed. “...is a murderer.” Calbert let that sink in. He straightened up. He took on an abnormal casual demeanor at this point, even coolly laughing as he spoke again. “First she stalks me. Caught her eavesdropping on a private conversation… Then she’s seen at the scene of a murder. The murder of someone dear to me… A very twisted and sick murder…” His voice rose with disgust and emotion. “I found even the bread that the criminal stole there! And I did recall her, you see Kazumin, because I saw her with you.” There was a shakiness to his voice now as he pointed a finger accusingly, “The very same night you made my darling Crystal cry after you gave her the impression you stalk her.” His expression contorted with anger, “This all together is too crazy to be a coincidence is it not?”

Kazu could hardly miss the sudden shift of Calbert’s mood and the increasing tension in the air. Then the insinuation of Percy being a murderer came up. Such an insult that might have normally boiled the blonde’s blood, but unfortunately the boost of energy from the powder had waned considerably bringing back all his exhaustion and aches which were now enhanced by the side effect of the unknown drug. Just keeping himself awake was proving difficult enough and having the distinguished lord seemingly lose his cool, speaking in an angry voice dripping poison.” Um…murder? I uh think there are some big misunderstandings here and of course, you did. I’m sure everyone saw us dancing together.” Said with a little chuckling scoff, his body wavering; a battle of staying steady or passing out ensued.

Perhaps any other day, the Count would have been on his game, manipulating expertly and staying calm as he fished for the information he wanted. But today, his emotion was the stronger competitor in this battle. The way this villain had sat there smiling as he referred to his murdering psychotic co-conspirator with glee. He had come here to mock him? To act as if this was all for fun?

He let out a howl of anger, throwing his hands against the table as he rose to his feet. Calbert was indignant as he practically shouted his next words at Kazumin. “You sit here and dare to smile and laugh! You eat my food with joy like a gluttonous pig! ...All while knowing of the evil you two have conspired against my family.”

His expression took on a sneer as his glance snapped to his bewildered servant, staring her down momentarily as she moved to the next room. She returned with the gun and set it in his palm. With the sound of a click, he pointed it at Kazumin, “Give me one reason why I should let someone capable of such villainy live.”

On the verge of giving in to fatigue when the man’s furious howl rang out through the hall causing him to wake up with a jolt. Blinking a few times to clear his blurry vision; next thing he knew he would see a gun being pointed in his direction and a demanding threat from the count. One would expect such a person in this situation to be afraid, but to Calbert’s surprise saw a goofy grin plastering his tired face painted in layers of make-up. “Ohhh I get it now. This is some kind of prank, yeah? Asking me here to grill me about some pretend *murder*” He motioned twice with his fingers to indicate none of this to be serious.“And make me angry by saying it was my friend Percy who did it and now trying to scare me with that toy gun.” Waving dismissively at the gun in Calbert’s hand with an amused giggle.“Is this whole overprotective father bit still cause I made your daughter cry?” He asked with a curious brow while leaning forward against the table, his body wobbling the entire time with droopy eyes.

Despite this entire insane conversation, Calbert still was riddled with disbelief. I am dealing with a madman. An absolute madman!

“And uh..you asked for a reason, right?” Scratching at his forehead trying to recall all that the man said then snickered; clearly looking a man not all there as Kazu was indeed loopy, almost like a mix of being drunk and high “ I’ll do you one better and give two.” Holding up two fingers wiggling them in a playful manner. ”I’ve been friends with Percy all my life and know for a fact she isn’t a killer or if she was she would only go for a corrupt noble of high status as going after their kids would just give her unwanted attention and make things harder and…” Trailing off as he felt himself beginning to drift until the slip of his left hand woke him back up. ” Where was I?” A shake of the head to jostle his mind awake.”Hm..oh right! Reasons. And the second reason… of all the time I have known Percy, not once would she ever leave behind or waste bread. You’d have to wrest it from her hands and a foolish folly that I can tell you.” Nodding his head while groggily picking up the cup of water to take a big swig though half of it spilled down his chin and onto his chest.

They were friends for his entire life. If that was the case, he was right to suspect this was a conspired plan by the two of them at this point. Then Kazumin had said she’d only go for a corrupt noble of high status? Was he calling him corrupt? Calbert could not believe the nerve this young man had to say such things with a gun to his head. Death did not even seem to frighten this psychopath. He had once read that they were often eerily calm, but he had an idea to shake him up.

To bring out his true colors.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Calbert & Kazumin

Part 1

---

The door swung open powerfully with a loud thud as it hit against the walls of the Damien estate. Calbert stepped out. His narrowed gaze was on the blonde man bounding toward his house like it was his birthday morning. Why is he eager? His eyes drifted toward the carriage behind him. He could see Lord Asteroth inside. Calbert sighed and glanced over his shoulder. “Put the gun away for now.” He murmured to a nearby member of his staff.

Though he’d have to hold back more than he wanted to, he still did not intend to be humble about his thoughts. Even if he did bring Lord Asteroth, Count Calbert outranked him and would make sure that they both knew that he was aware of Kazumin’s antics. Looking down at Kazumin, he could not help but contort his face in disgust, his blue eyes locked on his cowlick as his mouth scrunched up.

“...We’ll wait for Lord Asteroth to join us.”

Lord Calbert would soon lay witness to the carriage door flying open and from it, Kazumin bounding out like an excitable child. But most eye-catching was the poor driver who found themselves unfortunate enough to have the door slamming into them from the abrupt bursting of the door. With Asteroth just exiting the carriage, everyone within the immediate vicinity bore witness to the dazed driver stumbling backwards against one of the horses which panicked from the impact and kicked though thankfully narrowly avoiding a direct hit of the individual, the same could not be said for the driver’s arm as he was knocked and sent sprawling to the hard concrete floor.

“Oh shit!” Kazu cursed through gritted teeth clutching at his hair. “Fuck..I didn’t see you there, Steve. Let me-” The cowlicked blonde motioned to make his way over to the injured driver when Asteroth’s hand clutched his shoulder.

A small but quick jerk of the shoulders had the ward pulled back towards the baron. “Leave it to me. You have done quite enough.” His voice was a harsh whisper that oozed unbridled wrath, his bearded face a bright red from a mixture of fury and embarrassment. The count’s presence the only thing sparing his tactless ward another biting reprimanding.

The baron wanted nothing more than to shove Kazumin back into the carriage and ride off after this, but the count was already present and waiting and he knew very well how Calbert detested being kept waiting. “Now I have to take care of this so you will have to go on without me. You are to extend the proper courtesies and apologies… and whatever that booze fried brain of yours tells you to say..you ignore it! So help me if you embarrass me any more this day…” Every word whispered like icy daggers hinting of cruel promise followed by a vice like squeeze to the shoulder.

All the while Kazu’s eyes were whirring in the eye sockets to Steve then to the count then to Asteroth and then a squirrel he spotted munching away at a nut on a nearby tree. Rapidly whirling to each of them in quick multiple concessions struggling to focus on one of them or the myriad of emotions circling within him. Half of Asteroth’s biting words are muffled by the loud erratic drumming of his heart.

“Do you hear me boy? Get up there and let the count know I shall be along shortly.” Said while prying dagger like fingers from his ward’s shoulder.

His last words and the painful pressure of his fingers releasing did the trick in getting Kazu to focus his attention on the count waiting at the top of the steps. His thoughts of chasing the squirrel to get his nuts brought to an end. “Yes sir, you can count on me!” Kazu responded with a stoic expression and salute only to melt back into his usual wide cheeky grin.

The young blonde who had been exhausted and barely able to make it up a set of stairs previously was gliding up the steps. Practically hopping up them in fact as he reached the top in a manner of seconds only to come to a skidding halt upon reaching the second to last step.

Suddenly Kazumin bowed lower than normally needed. “Greeting Lord Count Calv- er Calby no..Calbert! I am most gracious and honored to have been given an invitation to your wondrous estate to share in brunch.” His tone was upbeat and excitedly chipper even if he didn’t know what brunch was but as long as it meant food he was fine with whatever. “Hm..oh and apologies from Baron Asteroth as he is a bit indisposed at the moment but shall be with us shortly.” Looking back over his shoulder to see him and a few others trying to help Steve causing a pained shout to echo out which Kazu cringed with guilt, making a mental note to make it up to the man later then turned his attention back to the count with that big grin plastered on his face once more.

Calbert immediately grimaced at the young man’s greeting. What is with him… He supposed that Kazumin was eager as he had not suspected the nature of their discussion. Nonetheless, he still struck Calbert as immensely odd. His brows slightly raised once he heard that Lord Asteroth would not be immediately joining. His gaze followed Kazumin’s briefly to the indisposed fellow who had been kicked by the horse. “I see. Well, that’s alright as there are some subjects I’d like to converse with you privately anyhow.” He stepped out of the way and gestured Kazumin inside. Once he would step inside, the front doors would slam shut.

He tried to remain standing in place but the powder (whatever it was) left him anxious and fidgeting in place. All the while that wide smile remained plastered on his face while the corner of his right eye twitched every so often. His attention nearly wandered back to the squirrel until Calbert spoke up after he strangely remained quiet even after giving his introduction.” Eh? Speak privately? Well alright.” A shrug of his shoulders thinking nothing of it as he followed after the distinguished count with a bounce to his steps.

The entrance hall was large and mostly a sight of beige marble. Two colossal pillars held up the balcony of the floor above them, where staff members were glancing down with curiosity as they leaned upon the railing. The room was not all too occupied with only a few chairs and a piano spawn across the granite floor, which had a black and white diamond pattern. There were also token splashes of blue symmetrically on each side of the room. Cool colors were a recurring theme throughout the manor.

“Kazumin, right?” He forced a smile and stepped up to him to stare down at him coolly. Though forced, Calbert had years to master even making his most forced smiles look genuine. “Follow me to the dining room. I have a brunch set out for us to talk over.” He glanced over his shoulder to meet the eyes of the man that had hidden the gun prior. He gave him a curt head nod and then folded his hands behind his back.

I am going to make him regret he was ever born.

Hunter's Game (Small Private Group)

Alice Varo

Alice had walked in, hood over her forehead as she did her best to ignore those who set forth with her. Despite her initial silence and folded arms, she had come to dressed to impress as she always had. She hadn't even glanced the way of the others. They weren't her problem. As far as she was concerned, she and Adelaide had the drive required. They'd simply be icing on their cake if they could prove to be useful. Besides, she had been able to pick up from the heavier footsteps that they were in the company of men and she knew they'd start talking soon enough to give her a better idea of what they were dealing with.

She fell into place beside her sister, neither of them in a hurry to make themselves known. The Varo sisters had preferred the shadows. She lowered her head slightly as if she wasn't watching. The first to speak up grumbled about food. Why he felt entitled to any right now was beyond Alice. He was quick to mumble something about them not being strong enough to lift an ox. She wasn't impressed with him either.

The next voice was that of an idiot, but an idiot they knew well. Alice cocked one of her guns at him immediately as he addressed them, her face visible as she gave him a grin. After a pause, she added softly and slowly, practically mouthing her words, "Fuck around and find out." She should have known he was here. It had gotten a little harder to breathe just as always when Nikolai's massive ego was in the vicinity. He looked well enough and the same as he always had when they crossed paths. She'd never tell him, but he was an impressive talent; it wasn't surprising he was here.

Her attention was subsequently stolen by her sister addressing ox-man, to which she quickly spun the gun in her hand and whirled her gaze threateningly to finally look at him as her sister spoke. Alice hadn't directly pointed the gun, but it was clear she had an itchy trigger finger. Called together or not, she trusted none of these bastards. If any of them so laid a finger on Adelaide, she would shoot them until they started looking like swiss cheese. She tapped her gun against her hip as if to hold herself back. Alice bit the inside of her lip, her lavender gaze wandering toward the man introducing himself as Latrell. His little introduction became background noise as she honed in on the strange, speaking contraption 'Buki.' She felt a sense of frustration as she stared at it for longer than the necessary amount of time. It was an unfamiliar being and like anything risky, Alice felt on edge around it. She liked to simply remove unknowns. However, it was also really cute. Her brows lowered as she continued to devote some of her focus to Buki and the rest to staying alert to her surroundings and sister.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 12pm
Location: Vikena Estate
Interactions:@Tae Thea @JJ Doe △△△
Attire:Dress, Booties, Hair ribbon

---

Charlotte had smiled as Count Fritz had started about Thea's eyes. She glanced at her as she said gently. "Thea's eyes are really magical to look at. She's very blessed. " Her head tilted back to Count Fritz as she listened intently, giggling finally as he pardoned himself." Your grandmother's eyes sound lovely too. Sharks are beautiful creatures. I used to read about them when I was younger. The ocean very much fascinated me. Oh, and you need not worry about prattling. We love to listen."

She then gasped and put her hands over her mouth upon seeing the gift basket. She managed to hold her tongue so the man could fully speak, but she was most delighted someone would bring her sweet Kier and Champion gifts. Passionately, she felt they were most deserving of all the gifts in the world. As she watched him feed a treat to Champion, a sense of bittersweet nostalgia came over her. An image of her father feeding a treat to their family dog Lullaby, in the same position as Count Fritz, replaced reality for a split second and she downcast her gaze. She was mildly aware of Thea playing with Champion, smiling at her in simple reply. I suppose it's a lie we tell ourselves that time makes these sorts of things easier. Never seemed that way to me... I haven't had a chance to think about how different it is to be in this home for the first time without mother or father here.

Her head rose up in time to hear Count Fritz explain they would all get three cookies. Delilah let out a triumphant noise before anyone else could and rose her fist in the air with excitement. She had quite the kick in her step as she left to fetch more tea. Charlotte had been about to follow her and offer her assistance, but then Count Fritz's voice found her ear. She was not quick to answer. Oh that's right. I took this man on a wild goose chase last night and now he's brought my whole household cookies. Even my pets... How am I going to tell him Lorenzo was apparently in the garden the whole time?

The deep chime of the grandfather clock filled the room as it struck 12 noon.

"He's home safe and sound..." Her eyes wandered to Thea as she filled her in. "Lorenzo was missing last night after the ball and Count Fritz was kind enough to help me look for him. Thankfully, we did find each other this morning and he's just in his room right now. He did say he would return but he may have fallen asleep after some trouble we found ourselves this morning... "There was one more pause before Charlotte addressed Count Fritz once again, "But um, really, thank you for everything. You really are kind, Count Fritz."

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Good Afternoon Sorian!
It's now 12pm.

Time: Afternoon - 12 pm
Location: Sorian

Mentions: @Helo Leo & Callum @Tae Thea, Saiya, Mina @ReusableSword Roman @Rodiak Nahir, Matthias, Zarai @JJ Doe Ryn & Riona @Aerandir Verrick @Conscripts John @Infinite Cosmos Munir @Potter Sadie & Persephone @13org Mayet @Heartfillia Crystal @samreaper Kazumin @Silverpaw Wulfric @Inertia Auguste @mantou Wystan @Terrance420 Alden @Lava Alckon Farim @PapaOso Cassius @Prosaic Devan & Kieran @Apex Sunburn Wasun @Ojo Chan 42 Yosri

11 am Events Status

- The Execution of Cameron Nesworth at the Athletic Arena.
_{This will come to a CLOSE now. Please leave this event.}

- "The Pathetic Duke and His Rat" is NO LONGER showing at the Edin Theater.

- Festival at the Park
_{The festival continues all day into the night!}

- The Prince's Court
_{This event is continuing on until all conversations have ceased.}

- Hunting in the Forest
_{This event can continue on if wanted, but it is recommended that the characters report their hunts to Hannah and the event comes to a close soon.}

12 pm Events Beginning

- Kazumin is expected to appear at the Damien household.
_{Please keep Calbert's offspring away for the time being}

- The Bazaar stalls are opening with food, jewelry and other items to purchase

- Swimming at lover's lake
_{Life protectors(lifeguards) are available all afternoon to watch over swimmers as swimming is now permitted in Lover's Lake!}

- Painting at the Museum
_{Come learn to paint abstract art!}

- Bull Riding at the Athletic Arena
_{As the execution finished and staff began to clean up the mess left behind, preparations for the next event have been put into action. A bull-riding event will begin at 12:15pm.}

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: 11am -> 12pm
Location: The Athletic Arena - The Execution
Mention:@Helo Leo @Tae Mina @PapaOso Cassius

---

The hooded woman had watched with mild interest, her legs crossed as the man was brought out. She was ever so still, her arms crossed and her boot bopping slightly with anticipation. Her long plain cape shrouded her face as a smirk played across it. Her dark hair fell out from the hood, moving with the breeze.

Nesworth. I expect a show.

Her shrouded gaze shifted upward. It landed on the small balconies around the arena that held her camouflaged men and women. And so do they.

She twisted her own spyglass in her hand. The young Darius met her eyes and she responded to his nod with her own. That was his cue. The question was not if she could trust Darius, she knew she could. He was eager to please and pull his parents out of poverty. She knew what that felt like enough to know he would obey. But would he succeed? The question was if Alibeth could rely on him and what better way to know than to put the young man on execution duty.

He spoke well enough; he said all the right things. But Alibeth still noticed each and every sweat bead as it rolled down his skin. You wouldn't hurt a fly, would you? ... Glad I brought a woman for the job. Cameron took the chance to speak to ramble on like a lunatic as she suspected. However, he revealed more than she had thought he would. It was almost too much, yet it was worth the risk if she could weed any other of the fools out today. Those on the balcony knew to watch the crowd closely now, looking for any suspicious reactions.

Alibeth knew very well she'd still be the first to spot any. She untwisted her legs and sat up straight, her spyglass in hand. Bringing it to her eye, she gently moved it over the crowd as the man screamed. Certainly, she did find some reactions that did not align with her wishes. So she marked the fools, even before her guards inevitably would. The subjects always showed their true colors when they thought there was no one to catch them. It was all too similar to a teacher not attending a classroom for a day. The children would feel free to shout, yell and take out the toys from their backpack. The toys that the teacher did not normally permit in her classroom. One, two, three, four... The unfaithfuls will grow in number as long as he reigns. But I shall disparage them in this instance.

The Queen knew Cameron Nesworth would reveal himself just as he was. Her eyeglass fell on his burning frame. Many would not have noticed the gleam of his red eyes, but she did. Her smile grew as the breeze had picked up. Oh how you denied it all. I knew you'd reveal yourself to me finally. She set the eyeglass in her lap and watched as Darius struggled against the flame. He eventually was able to put it out in the sand. This was an ideal situation considering Nesworth's capabilities. More importantly, this was enough of a display to perhaps make the other little performers known to her. Alibeth raised her head. She remained still amongst the mixed reactions to Nesworth's death. It wasn't long before she thought to herself, I see quite a few of you. There will be more blood for this crowd then. I am sure even this terrible death will not deter you vermin. She rose to her feet once she felt she had what she needed. I'd love to finally meet the cat who keeps bringing these rats to my door.

With a lowered head, Alibeth had planned to leave at that moment. That was when she noticed a girl just a few seats ahead of her faint. She paused in her footsteps and watched the commotion play out over her shoulder. Now this is interesting... Lady Mina Blackwood. Executions are not for the faint of heart. But you must know that. Could it be that you're a player in my game?

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time:11am
Location: Park of Sorian
Attire:Dress
Interaction:@Lava Alckon Farim @Rodiak Nahir @Potter Layla

---

As Farim had protested, she looked over her shoulders, "You said you wanted to spend more time with your family! ...Don't worry I won't leave you." She called back to him with a wink. As the two of them moved up to the girls, Anastasia found herself eying the two gorgeous women while Farim spoke. " Hi girls!" She greeted casually with a smile.

Her expression changed ever so slightly at Nahir's words, but she kept up the smile, "Yeah that was all a shitshow. Sorry that all happened and sorry I lost my cool! I am gonna figure out what happened last night and I promise I'll keep you all in the loop... But no worries about your uncle. I would absolutely lose my marbles on anyone that tried to threaten my brothers."

Anastasia was glad they didn't want to dwell on the subject. She hadn't considered that they might want to ask her about it, especially considering they had forgotten multiple hours of a party. Anybody would have questions.

The other pretty Alidasht princess had something to say as well but Anastasia picked up on the difference in tone from Nahir. She was a spicier one but Anastasia did not mind that. "Farim is so sweet to bring you food. I could eat him up like candy!"

"..As for the game, let me think darlings. Hmm.." She spun on her heels thoughtfully. Her gaze returned to the three Alidasht, " That cup game over there seems simple enough. Surely at least one of us would win a prize?"