princess

Avalia

Time:Late Morning
Location::The Nest, Roshmi City
Interaction: @Alivefalling Aerilyn, @Apex Sunburn Scathael, @ShiningSector FIVE @FunnyGuy Thraash
Equipment: Repeating crossbow, a bag, sword, two daggers, 3 small red potions, 1 large red potion, 1 large blue potion, hoverboard, portable solar box, eye protectors, fire starter kit, channeling gloves that turn her light magic orange, makeup, perfume, a skull she wears as a mask and a disguise ring

Mari stepped forward, her gaze locked on Thraash as Five's insane weapon aligned inches from his neck. "Okay take it easy, hold it right there.." She jumped on the table to make sure she was in his view. "Let's use logic here. So there's obviously a reason why Thraash and I would fetch you a pretty bag of amas..." She smiled and gestured to herself with her thumbs, "We're the best at what we do. If we weren't, you wouldn't be wasting your time trying to kill us. I guarantee you that if you hang with us, you can make more amas than you've seen in your dreams."

She then gestured to Aerilyn, "We were just about to speak with fluffy ass here about killing a manticore. You know, the kind of job that makes everyone else wet their pants in fear. But not us. We take on the beasts nobody else dares to face. Why? Because we're the best. And that manticore? It's just the beginning. Imagine the profits, the loot, and the reputation that comes with it. The three of us? Unstoppable."

With a theatrical sigh, she concluded, "Sure, everyone hates us because they ain't us, but they secretly wish they were. Join us, and you'll be rolling in amas faster than you can say 'Thraash has stinky breath.' We'll make you richer than your wildest dreams. It's not just a partnership; it's an investment in your future. So what do you say?"

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Location:Damien Estate Ballroom
Time: Evening
Attire: Mask Suit
Interactions:@PapaOso Cassius @Tae Kalliope @Lava Alckon Drake, @Potter Olivia, @Apex Sunburn Sjan-dehk @Samreaper Kazumin @SilverpawWulfric @Helo Leo @JJ Doe Ryn

---

Calbert Damien was perched on the elegant railing overlooking the grand ballroom as he observed his guests. Far from the prying eyes of his guests, a subtle amusement played upon his lips. His hands traced the intricate carvings as if mapping out the evening's unfolding intrigue. His black suit was adorned with gold detailing and complemented by a menacing goat mask that concealed his features. There was certainly something to be found in those blue eyes of his: perhaps a glint of purpose and cunning.

With graceful steps, he paced along the railing, his hand still caressing the wood as his eyes swept the crowd like a seasoned general surveying a battlefield. Every movement was calculated, every glance deliberate. Once he had collected every game piece he desired, his gaze shifted with a predator's focus.

Now, he decided, was the opportune moment to greet his guests.

With a smile that was as enigmatic as the night itself, Calbert Damien greeted the room, his voice carrying through the air, "Ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you," he announced, "...Tonight, we step into a dreamscape, one where elegance meets mystery." With a subtle nod, he signaled to the orchestra, their melodies shifting to a more enchanting tempo. He made his way toward the staircase and began his journey downward to join his guests.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Night
Location: The edge of Lover's Lake
Attire:Dress, A crown of various flowers
Interaction: @Lava Alckon Farim @Infinite Cosmos Munir @ReusableSword Roman @Tae Mina

---

Anastasia stepped towards the gathering, her guards trailing behind, while Roman's voice echoed through the air. She paused at the edge of the shadows, ensuring she wouldn't disrupt anyone's attention. Her eyes swept over the assembled guests, her lips curving into a smile. Yet, her expression faltered momentarily at something Roman said, though she swiftly pushed the concern aside. When she was certain Roman had concluded his speech, she stepped into the fading sunlight.

In her hands, she held a bouquet of freshly picked flowers, and she wore a simple, elegant long blue gown made of delicate, lightweight fabric. A flower crown, seemingly woven haphazardly, adorned her golden locks. Anastasia was glad she brought the flowers as she wanted to pay respects to the dead when she had the chance.

However, first she wanted to make sure she greeted everyone. First, she approached Roman and Mina, "Hello you two! You look great! ..." She offered both Roman and Mina hugs. Her eyes shifted to Roman, a glimmer of admiration sparkling in them. "This is beautiful, Roman. I can't wait to experience it all."

Anastasia then turned gracefully, acknowledging Munir, whom she had noticed nearby, with a sweet smile and wave, and then, her gaze swept over the rest of the attendees. Finally, her eyes found Farim, and without hesitation, she closed the distance between them. With arms outstretched, she enveloped him in a tight hug, her voice carrying a note of genuine delight. "Well hello again! I'm so happy to see you!"

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning --> Evening
Location: Sorian Beach --> Calbert's Estate
Interaction: @FunnyGuy Lorenzo @PapaOso Cassius @Potter Olivia @SausagePat Ruby @ReusableSword Kazumin @Samreaper

---

Morning

Attire:Bathing Suit, Light-colored beach sandals, Hair loose

Location: Sorian Beach

"Oh, Lady Ariella... I see. I'll see you at home then, Lorenzo." A faint smile graced Charlotte's lips, but it quickly faded as Lorenzo turned his back and began to walk away. She stood alone, silently watching his retreating figure, her heart heavy with unspoken emotions. Please stay... Her fingers interlocked, forming a wordless plea.

As she was lost in her thoughts, a cheerful voice suddenly interrupted her reverie. "Snowcone, dear?" The sound of the voice brought her back to the present.

Charlotte turned her gaze towards a woman pushing a cart through the warm sand. The woman offered her a vibrant cone filled with colorful ice. However, Charlotte decided against indulging in more sweetness after the emotional rollercoaster of the smoothie incident.

"Oh, uh...no thank you," Charlotte replied politely.

Undeterred by the refusal, Molly continued her rounds, her voice carrying over the beach as she made an announcement with uncontainable enthusiasm. "Free snowcones for all! Courtesy of Shehzadi Layla Kadir!" Her words rang out, drawing the attention of beachgoers who eagerly lined up for the unexpected and generous treat.

Perhaps Layla had felt guilty. A snow cone was not going to be enough to put Layla on the top of her list, but she was certainly eager to be in better standing with the vile woman, so the apology was welcomed.

Charlotte had sat down on her own for a short while as the others had enjoyed their snowcones, then decided to finally approach them to go for a swim. She had promised Olivia that she would teach her how to swim today, and it was a commitment she intended to fulfill. Cassius, Olivia, and Ruby had all agreed to join her in the water.

Olivia, though initially nervous, seemed to be making progress with her swimming skills. Yet, amidst the swimming lessons and laughter, Charlotte couldn't help but seize the opportunity to question Cassius about his sudden appearance. According to Cassius, he had been directed to Calbert's location after the recent passing of his mother. While it was indeed a peculiar turn of events, Charlotte decided, for the time being, to give him the benefit of the doubt. He didn't appear to be aligned with Calbert's nefarious plans, but he also didn't strike her as someone she was eager to form a close bond with, especially after witnessing a return to his unbecoming behavior. She had noted mentally: Not certain if he's an enemy, but he sure is in every way a bastard.

---

Evening

Attire: Mask, Dress/Wings
Location: Damien Estate Ballroom
Interactions: @Helo Leo

Charlotte had set aside time during the day to make sure her attire was exactly what she wanted it to be.

Though she had entered the ballroom with graceful silence, her entry had not gone unnoticed. Many attendees turned their attention to the newcomer in the enchanting pink gown. Her presence was commanding to the eye yet delicate, like the first bloom of a rare flower in spring.

Her gown was a soft shade of pink with a white corset. The fabric cascaded like a waterfall, embellished with intricate beadwork that glimmered under the gentle caress of the chandelier. The bodice hugged her form gracefully before giving way to a flowing skirt that trailed behind her. On her back, she wore a pair of ethereal butterfly wings. Her mask, adorned with jewels, matched the shade of her gown perfectly and continued the theme of the butterfly.

She was a juxtaposition, embodying the very essence of innocence while simultaneously drawing the eye with its meticulous attention to detail. Yet, deep down, the girl was rather nervous. She had never quite arrived to many events on her lonesome, as Lorenzo had opted not to attend and Olivia was arriving late, hopefully without Kazumin. Charlotte was quite worried over the idea of him attending but she knew that he would show up nonetheless.

Though Charlotte made no effort to conceal herself, she did gravitate toward the perimeter, hoping to see if she could recognize anyone despite the masks.

Amidst the sea of masks and gowns, Charlotte's keen eyes finally caught a glimpse of something familiar. It started with a pair of fuzzy lion slippers. They were followed by the unmistakable hue of red hair that peeked out from beneath a lion mask.

A laugh rose in her throat and a smile crossed her lips. She made her way through the crowd, stepping up behind her friend, With a playful glimmer in her eyes, Charlotte couldn't help but tease Leo, softly speaking in his ear. "You're not exactly hiding behind your lion motif, are you?" she quipped, her voice laced with amusement. "I must say, the slippers were a dead giveaway. But," she added with a smile, "I do appreciate the commitment to the theme. A lion in every sense tonight, aren't you?"

Avalia

Time:Late Morning
Location::The Nest, Roshmi City
Interaction: @Alivefalling Aerilyn, @Apex Sunburn Scathael, @ShiningSector FIVE @FunnyGuy Thraash
Equipment: Repeating crossbow, a bag, sword, two daggers, 3 small red potions, 1 large red potion, 1 large blue potion, hoverboard, portable solar box, eye protectors, fire starter kit, channeling gloves that turn her light magic orange, makeup, perfume, a skull she wears as a mask and a disguise ring

Mari's impulsive nature took over as she leaped onto a nearby table, her gaze fixed on Thraash down on the ground. She had always relished a good fight, and the idea of going out in a blaze of glory had its undeniable appeal. But as the battle unfolded and the odds seemed stacked against them, an unfamiliar surge of emotion coursed through her.

She scoffed at her own momentary weakness. Being on the losing end of a fight was never her style, and seeing Thraash lying there had done more than upset her; it had pissed her off to no end. "Get your ass up, Thraash!" she shouted.

Her attention returned to Five, "Hey!... BIG BOY!" She waved her arms to get his attention, hoping to dissuade him from his attack on the bunny bitch.

"Time out!" Mari yelled, her voice carrying a hint of exasperation. "Why are you even doing this? Are they paying you a mountain of amas or something? I mean, I respect the grind and all, but seriously, hear me out." She adopted a defensive stance, ready to attempt to dodge any incoming attacks.

"... What if we have a job that can pay you more? I know it sounds like I'm grasping at straws because you're totally kicking ass... Buuut! If you like amas as much as we do, maybe you should hear us out. If you don't like what we have to say, then you can always continue trying to crush us. You seem like you're confident in your ability to do so it will hurt you absolutely none to chill out like five seconds."

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Riverport
Interactions: @JJ Doe Jun @Helo Zion @Tae Kenia @Alivefalling Stupid spiders
Equipment: Bow and quiver of arrows, Hygiene supplies, spray bottle, short sword, backpack, a few pieces of jerky, 1000 amas, transmission bracelet, Portable Solar Box, location sender
Attire: His outfit

Malachi's eyes snapped to the elf with the pale blonde hair. His eyes locked on hers, his pupils dilating slightly at her presence.

Kenia.

He swiftly notched an arrow onto his taut bowstring. "Watch yourself." He cautioned her softly. Amid the tension, Zion's voice reached Malachi's keen ears, accompanied by the subtle shift of weight off his body and the faint rustle of light footsteps on the earthen ground. These sounds told him that Zion had carried someone with him without Malachi needing to divert his gaze from the enemy at hand. Malachi was not one to allow his focus to waver in the presence of enemies.

Despite the absence of direct eye contact, Zion's next words conveyed Jun's presence without a doubt, igniting a surge of determination within Malachi. These spiders may not have been the most formidable of foes to come across, but they were not to be underestimated. There had to be a reason they had established such a menacing presence so close to a town. The noxious stench that ever so subtly filled the air suggested that the remains of their victims, blood and bones alike, were likely within arm's reach. "Blonde. Watch the child... Jun, stay back."

A bright light imbued the arrow and he let it rip toward the spider as soon as it descended from the trees. Zion sprinted forward and Malachi's breath hitched. He quickly strung another arrow and stepped forward. His expression faltered with concern as venom splattered the demihuman. "Zion!" He shouted on instinct. The sight and sounds had been a nightmare to witness. His heart felt as if it had stopped beating in his chest for that moment. As Zion's anguished screams shattered the air so did the screams of the past.

Malachi's hands trembled uncontrollably. His voice quivered under his breath with terror, his words escaping in a broken whisper as he watched Zion suffer. "No, not again," he murmured, the words carrying a heavy weight. His hands clenched into fists, his knuckles turning white as he grappled with the agonizing helplessness of the moment. But as the sense of déjà vu threatened to consume him, something stirred within Malachi. His grief and anguish very quickly transformed into a desperate need, and as did an uncontrollable frustration, "You idiot! Why would you rush forward so impulsively!" he shouted, his voice laced with raw intensity as he squared his bow away. He wasn't normally one for close-up combat, but it was vital he got between Zion and the spider. He charged forward with a yell.

His fingertips glowed with radiant light as he unsheathed a sword, the light engulfing the sword as well as he slashed it toward the spider. The light magic reached his eyes with the intensity of the attack as he let the light energy surge from the sword into the foe with all his might. If he had successfully buried the sword within the spider's flesh, he had dug it in deep before stepping back to put some distance between him and the spider. He continued to unleash a fury of light bolts toward the foe. Though he wore a determined, cool expression, his anger was evident in his gaze.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Guavav Village
Interactions: @Helo Cyrus @13org Viola @Alivefalling Dante @FunnyGuy Darius
Equipment: Staff with unbreaking and shift enchantment(shifts into dagger), Her bag, Water Purifier, Flask, some shiny pebbles
Attire:Dress, which she decorated with flowers and hung little charms off the ropes, A small antler headdress with flowers and jewels, amulet with Millinia Crest, wooden butterfly earrings, various bracelets

Phia smiled pleasantly at Cyrus, though a fleeting trace of sadness briefly clouded her eyes at the mention of Menzai. "He will be alright. I have halted the bleeding and he is able to go on. As for I, I am a little weary but my spirit remains."

Her gaze flickered to Viola and remained there for some time before she gave her a smile and nodded. "I am so happy you two were not harmed. What poor luck we were to run into such a rare and strange situation."

With that, she moved to Darius upon his request and gently laid a hand on his shoulder. Her hand took on that familiar glow once more as her eyes wandered with curiosity over his skin. She had expected humans to feel as otherworldly as they were under her fingertips. "We can fetch him a potion once we get there. I am sure we have plenty."

She glanced at Darius and smiled faintly as he spoke. "Darius is very wise. He is correct. We hold our way of life and our people close to our hearts. I am sure you can understand that sometimes it's a little nerve-wracking to let a stranger in for supper when you have a home full of your beloved family members. Although I believe kindness is a guiding principle within all of us, that instinct to protect what's dear to us is also a natural part of who we are."

Upon arriving at the village, Phia wasted no time in procuring a blue potion for Dante. If he still desired some rest, she guided him back to his designated bedroom, offering her assistance along the way. With Dante's well-being in mind, she ensured he was comfortable before turning her attention to the rest of the group.

Leading them through the village, Phia couldn't help but notice the curiosity and unease among the townsfolk. They were shaken by the screech of the Rok certainly, but she could tell that the unfamiliar faces had piqued their interest. She responded with warm, reassuring smiles to alleviate the tension as best she could

Their journey eventually led them to a quaint wooden hall perched within a semi-large tree, its foundation built right on the water's edge. They reached it via a winding stone path that meandered gracefully up the riverbank.

Upon entering, they found the restaurant's interior to be a cozy haven, furnished with sturdy wooden tables and chairs. Soft lighting hung from the ceiling, casting a warm, inviting glow. While the restaurant was less crowded than usual, several groups of villagers still occupied tables, savoring their meals. The decor leaned towards simplicity, highlighting the respect for nature and the earth. The aroma of freshly prepared dishes wafted through the air. The menu was known to be a mix of dishes made from the forest's own bounty with a sprinkling of earth's recipe in the menu.

As the group made their way inside and the door closed behind them, all eyes turned their way. Phia had not seemed to mind the reaction, waving enthusiastically before they had been seated finally. Once sitting, she stretched her arms across the table and smiled wide. "I think a nice meal is always necessary for a bonding session between very great folks like you all. Everyone here loves food, yes?"

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

The Ceremony for the Summer Solstice

Time: Night
Location: Edge of Lover's Lake.

Written by @ReusableSword

The summer air was cool outside the warehouse, marked with white, blue, and purple flags—the colors of the Ravenwood family. This was the designated location for the ritual attendees to gather, unless they chose to arrive on their own at odd hours of the night. With about an hour remaining before the sun set, the Ravenwood clan, and indeed many people from Varian, worked quickly to assemble baskets, boxes, kegs, and various other items into a few horse-drawn carts. The mood was cheerful, with many smiles and hearty laughs filling the air.

Soon, an entourage comprised of nobles, guards, merchants, workers, and people of all ages, gathered in and around the carts to make their way to the ceremony site. Musicians played music commonly heard in the Northern Varian territories as the procession slowly advanced toward the lush forest. The chosen location, the westernmost edge of Lover’s Lake, had been meticulously prepared for their ceremony. The past few days were dedicated to clearing brush, setting stones and designs into the ground, preparing fire pits, arranging food, and setting up seating for the night.

At the site, a few guards and the shaman had already arrived and greeted everyone with smiles, beckoning them to begin unloading the carts and sorting through the crates. Most everyone pitched in to unload everything from the carts until they were empty. During a brief pause in the activities, a man stepped up onto one of the empty carts and gestured for everyone to gather around for an announcement.

Roman stood tall on the empty cart, wearing his traditional Ritual attire, which made him look quite imposing. He wore a plaid kilt in his family’s colors and little else—no shoes, no shirt. However, strapped to him were large, thick bones—the upper half of a large snow bear skeleton. Its ribs encased his chest and torso, with long arm bones tied to his arms that ended in oversized boney paws with sharp, dagger-like claws. Its lower jaw hung from around his neck, and under one arm was the skull itself. The bones had been altered slightly to fit his size, yet anyone could still estimate the size of the beast from the skull he held under his arm. A skull that, like the rest of his bare skin, was adorned with ancient patterns and runes meant for protection and strength.

“Hello friends, family, new and old faces, one and all. Thank you for coming to our Celebration and Ceremony of the summer solstice. There are a few ground rules I must go over with you, especially if you have never been to one of our celebrations,” he spoke clearly, slowly, and with distinct enunciation, ensuring that all could hear his words. “First and foremost, there are no titles here—Royalty, Nobility, and the common man will all be treated the same, as we are all equal in the eyes of the gods.”

He paused briefly, his smile never fading. “Second, if you're going to act disrespectfully, whether sober or not, you will be escorted back to the city if you are disrespectful towards each other or our ceremony. This is for your safety as much as it is ours; some of us may enter a trance as we sing and dance, and some of us may not recognize you.”

He allowed those words to sink in before continuing, “Third, there are cups offered by the shaman herself.” Roman motioned his arm toward her, “These are the only cups that are colored red. They contain a drink mixed with our natural plants and mushrooms from the north. This drink is what we give to our people who wish to see. No one knows what you will see, but mostly it is to help you see your true self, so that you may find peace and heal from the wounds no one else can see. If you're lucky, you may even meet a god.”

A chorus of laughter erupted from him and some of the other northern men, as if they were all in on some inside joke, or perhaps they were all just a little insane. “Lastly, and this one is important,” Again, he paused to ensure everyone was listening, “Our ceremonies are ancient, from a time before our kingdoms were kingdoms. You may think or feel that the way we worship is magic in some way, but I can assure you it is not. We sing, dance, and offer to our gods, our ancestors, and the spirits that inhabit the land.”

His smile returned as he placed the hollowed-out skull onto his head, concealing his eyes in shadow. The red rubies set in the eye sockets of the bear's skull glistened with the dying light of the sun. “Now, for the ceremony itself, we will sing four songs in the old tongue. The many guards not participating in the ceremony have been instructed to translate for you if you ask. Our songs represent birth, life, death, and the last song for the gods. Before we start, you will find benches close to the fires; these are meant for offerings of food, wine, and prayers or words to a loved one who has passed—anything you wish to offer to the gods and the ancestors.”

Again, he paused to look over the crowd. “Mina Blackwood and I will be leading the songs for this ceremony. So, we have a little while longer before the fires are lit, so please enjoy the food, the drinks, the music. Take this time to prepare yourselves for the celebration. Remember, all we ask is that you be respectful of our customs. It's up to you whether you want to participate or just observe. No one here will judge you for getting in tune with nature.”

Glancing out across the forest for a moment, three smaller fires were set up in a triangle with ample space in the middle for the largest of the fires. Stones and paint formed an intricate pattern along the ground, one that could only be fully appreciated from a higher vantage point. Tables with food, drinks, instruments, and ritual wear were arranged around the outside of the very large circle. With that, he descended from the cart, and the crowd began to disperse. He still had a few things to prepare for the ritual himself.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Count Damien's Masquerade

Time: Night
Location: Ballroom in Damien Estate

Written by @Tpartywithzombi

As the moonlight filters through the intricately designed windows, casting a silvery glow upon the polished wooden floor, the room transforms into a dreamscape of elegance and mystery. Tonight, an air of enchantment fills the room, as the ballroom plays host to a splendid masquerade.

The walls of the grey ballroom are adorned with rich velvet drapes in deep shades of midnight blue and regal burgundy, cascading from ceiling to floor in graceful waves. Gilded sconces, delicately crafted with intricate patterns, hold flickering candles that dance with a warm and inviting light, casting intricate shadows that seem to tell secrets of bygone eras.

The expansive dance floor is a masterpiece in itself, polished to a mirror-like shine, reflecting the enchanting chandeliers that hang above. The chandeliers are true works of art, their crystal prisms capturing the moonlight and scattering it across the room in a myriad of enchanting patterns. Each crystal radiates a soft, ethereal glow, casting an otherworldly ambiance over the masquerade attendees.

In every corner, exquisite floral arrangements that Lady Damien insisted on having. Bursting forth in a riot of colors and scents, lending a touch of nature's beauty to the splendor of the occasion. Roses in shades of deep crimson and velvety black mingle with orchids and lilies, their fragrances intermingling with the soft scent of beeswax candles. Greenery twists and twines around the pillars, enhancing the illusion of a hidden garden within the ballroom itself.

As attendees glide gracefully across the dance floor in their elaborate animal-inspired attire, the masked figures create an aura of intrigue and allure. The ornate masks range from delicate lace to opulent filigree, each one a testament to the wearer's imagination. Behind these disguises, whispered conversations and shared laughter mingled with the strains of a live orchestra, playing their beautiful tunes.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time:Night
Date:Sola 23rd

Interaction: @Helo@Tae @ReusableSword @Rodiak @JJ Doe @Conscripts @Infinite Cosmos @Potter @13org @Heartfillia @Tpartywithzombi @samreaper @Silverpaw @Inertia @mantou @Terrance420 @Potter @FunnyGuy @SausagePat @Lava Alckon @CitrusArms @Blizz @PapaOso @Apex Sunburn @Ojo chan 42

The evening has set in! Anything you need to wrap up, please be clear that you are writing in the daytime still or mark as a flashback as we are officially moving into the night <3

NEWSPAPER FOR SOLA 23