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Count Landon Monet & Count Calbert Damien


Time: 11am
Location: Church of Sorian
Interactions: @Rodiak Nahir @Lava Alckon Farim



As the applause filled the air, Count Landon Monet, with an obligatory smile, clapped enthusiastically, though the tension in his jaw betrayed his true feelings. "Magnifique! Truly a sight to behold," he declared. This is absurd, all this pomp for a king who barely acknowledges his people. How do they all fall for this charade? His eyes flicked briefly to Calbert, gauging his reaction.

Calbert applauded with genuine enthusiasm, his smile warm and inviting, perfectly masking any personal reservations. "Ah, what a grand spectacle! King Edin's presence is always a reminder of our great fortune," he remarked smoothly. Turning slightly to address those behind him, he added with a wink, "Isn’t this just the most marvelous event you’ve ever seen?"

Fayette, from her position on Princess Anastasia's shoulders, nodded eagerly. "Yes, Monsieur Calbert! It was so beautiful! I loved the ballet dancers!" She exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder.

Beau, equally mesmerized, as he awkwardly remained by Prince Wulfric's side, "I want to be just like King Edin one day!" he declared with youthful exuberance.

Landon’s forced smile faltered, a flash of irritation crossing his face. He quickly regained his composure as his mind locked in on Prince Wulfric's presence, though the tightness in his expression was unmistakable.

No, Beau, you should aspire to be better, much better than King Edin.



Time:Morning
Location: Church of Sorian
Attire: Hair Style, Dress
Interaction:@FunnyGuy Lorenzo
Mention: @Silverpaw Wulfric @Samreaper Kazumin @Potter Olivia @Helo Leo @Tae Thea @TpartywithZombi Violet @ReusableSword Roman @PapaOso Cassius @JJ Doe Fritz/Ryn






As the grand ceremony unfolded with all its excess and grandeur, Charlotte found her attention drifting away from the spectacle almost immediately. To many in the room, this was an event that one could not tear their eyes from. To Charlotte, this was something she had endured throughout her entire life. As far as she was concerned, the Gods has never done her any favors so why should she do any for them? And of course, King Edin certainly had not! Tucked in the safety of the back row, she felt secure in just taking some much needed time for herself.

The cacophony of the choir and the music faded into a distant hum as she leaned back in her seat, her face hidden in her book. Committed to her promise, she first concentrated on drafting a list of advisors for Lorenzo—a task proving more challenging than anticipated. Prince Wulfric would undoubtedly favor nominees from the upper echelons of society, yet such individuals were often too preoccupied to provide Lorenzo with the consistent guidance he required. Additionally, they all didn't like him... And Charlotte did not like them either. Thus, those who made the most sense were people around Lorenzo often. That meant she, herself, was an option, however, taking advice from a woman was something he'd be ridiculed for. Nonetheless, she decided to put herself on the list. She intentionally left off Delilah, aware of her disinterest in the role, and excluded Benjamin for his eccentricities.

Potential Advisors for Lorenzo:


Lottie

Pros:
• Knows Lorenzo well
• Was an excellent student in school
• In constant vicinity of Lorenzo
• Good taste in food

Cons:
• Fun personality is intimidating
• Hates politics
• Most people will not respect the choice of taking advice from a woman

Kier

Pros:
• Always alert and sneaky
• Cute
• Is a long noodle

Cons:
• Steals everything
• Doesn't speak English
• Is on this list in jest

Gilbert

Pros:
• Very smart
• Cooks like an angel
• Decisive
• Lives in our house

Cons:
• He's grumpy
• Man of few words
• May consider violence

Nathaniel

Pros:
• Personally assists Lorenzo already
• Well-mannered
• Respectable
• Lives in our house

Cons:
• Questionable if he will agree to do it
• Gives judgmental looks


Once her list was finished, she ripped it from her journal and slipped the page into Lorenzo's hand to review. At this point, she glanced up and noticed the paper mache Edin heads. "Oh." She commented softly. If the man's face didn't fill her with such disgust, she might have laughed. With a sigh, Charlotte returned her gaze downward.

On the clean page, she started writing down her thoughts.

Last night was a storm of emotions and revelations.

My encounter with Count Calbert was more harrowing than I could have ever anticipated.
His threats still echo in my mind, and so do his words as he revealed that he knew Kazumin and Seph had been sheltered in my home.

I simply do not understand this. No matter how I wrap my head around the situation, I cannot name one person in the situation who would have informed him of such knowledge.

Lorenzo protected us.
Kazu and Persephone would be endangering themselves only to reveal so.
Delilah and Gilbert are family.
And Count Fritz has only been kind... Why would he? Would he even?

Why has he been kind? Should I mistrust random acts of kindness?
But then how will I ever enjoy the companionship of others if I live in my life in such a manner?

My mother had always said I was too naive for this world.
I know there is truth to this, that I am sheltered and inexperienced.

I know that I am weak, but I must continue to try.
For mama, papa, Lorenzo, Delilah, and Gilbert.
For my darling Thea and Leo.
For Crystal and Violet, whose very names make my heart ache at this moment.
For Roman, whose name does not belong ridiculed in our morning paper.

And for my new friends, Kazumin, Persephone and Fritz, who I must now betray.


Her expression saddened and she pulled her knees inward.

I cannot inform them of Calbert's threats.

Keeping such a thing from my friends is a heavy burden, but I believe it’s necessary to protect them. If they were to confront Calbert or retaliate, it could only serve to endanger them further and tighten his grip around us all.

I hope that the fewer dramatics that occur going forward, the better chance Calbert will let his guard down. I truly want to hope that everything he told me had been a simple bluff.

But in my heart, I know there is evil in that man and that he will choose to do things to harm them, so I must find a way. I could try to convince them to not travel alone, especially at night. If I am to be a poor friend and choose to withhold such an important truth, then I must at least be willing to do anything to protect them from the danger that lies ahead.

What a frightful notion. Skinny, mousy Lottie being the one to stand between you and danger.

Perhaps I should be praying to these Gods with everyone else if they even exist.

It's no wonder I almost broke down in the middle of that ballroom.

For a moment I let myself feel that dread deep in my soul. I know better than that. I know that letting that dread will only result in a self-fulfilling prophecy.

I must be stronger than that and have hope that good will prevail.

On a brighter note, Cassius was…unexpectedly comforting. He appeared as my world crumbling around me, and he held me together. There’s a warmth in him, a kindness that I didn’t expect from a spawn of Calbert. I find myself curious about the man behind the mask, and I do not just mean the one he wore to the masquerade. As I scan the church, I can’t help but look for him next to Calbert, but he’s nowhere to be seen. Perhaps it’s for the best.

For now, I must focus on what I can do to help prepare and protect my friends. I will gather my courage and face whatever comes my way with resolve.



Time: Morning
Location: Church of Sorian
Attire:Dress, Flats, Crown and Earrings
Interaction: @Lava Alckon Farim @Rodiak Nahir @Potter Kira @Silverpaw Wulfric


"Aw, thanks, Nahir! I think so too! I look amazing in pink, don't I?" The princess agreed with a charming giggle. With a smile, she touched her arm gently as she assured her, "You're gonna love it. Our religious ceremonies are enjoyable, actually."

Anastasia then looked over her shoulder upon hearing a voice greet them. She immediately beamed at the girl and waved without hesitation. "Hi Kira! Yeah, come pop a squat!"

Her brother's arrival followed within seconds. Initially, her smile broadened. "Wulfy awoooo!" She added another greeting with a giggle. Unfortunately, the wolf found its prey in Kira and immediately went in for the kill. Her smile fell, and she sighed. He's never gonna get invited to parties if he keeps this up. As if to echo Wulfric's call for protocol, the guards along the wall got closer.

Lame.

At least Nahir seemed to have a reasonable compromise. She appeared as nice and intelligent as Farim. Thus far, Anastasia had a great impression of the Alidasht royals. She gave Kira a sympathetic smile, "Sorry, sweetie, catch up with us later for some cheese... I'd love to get to know you!"

It was then that the background music faded off, and the side door opened. She was quick to rise, craning her head excitedly as Father Aldric Von entered the room. She didn't quite know the words as everyone started chanting with him, so she instead turned her attention to Count Monet's children, who had both climbed over the pews to crawl on the floor by the royals' feet. Finally, the grand doors in the back opened.

A tug at her skirt pulled Anastasia's gaze, and she smiled. Young Fayette Monet was looking up at her with a shy grin. Annie knelt down and assisted the child in climbing on her back, then rose back up. "Can you see now, Fayette?"

"Thank you, princess!" The child chirped and hugged her neck. The ceremony was as loud and intense as Anastasia always remembered it. It was more like a parade than what others may have imagined a religious ceremony to be, but Annie had always loved it since she was a child. It had always been exciting for her, and clearly, Count Monet's children were excited about it too. She could hear Fayette gasping in her ear. Meanwhile, young Beau was standing by the end of the pew watching the scene by Wulfric. Annie noticed him glancing up at the prince with admiration every time he wasn't looking and smirked to herself.

She smiled upon seeing her father being brought in. It was still nice, despite it all, to see him appreciated for his role as King. Anastasia wanted to join in the applause, though her hands were busy holding the little girl's legs up still.

Farim's voice reached her ears as the applause began to die down, and she said, "Oh for sure. Fay and I saw it all!"
In Howdy 4 mos ago Forum: Introduce Yourself
Cami I welcome you boldly and interestingly.
Welcome, Mario. You are inspirational to me.
In Avalia 5 mos ago Forum: Casual Roleplay


Time: Morning
Location: Camp outside Roshmi
Interaction: @Apex Sunburn Scathael, @FunnyGuy Thraash @ShiningSector FIVE
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





"Yeah I am. " Mari responded to the dark elf immediately, though surprisingly she kept her tone low, respecting his wishes. "I feel like we should be looking for whoever did that to that town so I can shove this up their ass." She gestured with the sword at her side before letting it drop. "That was so fucked up... And I guess I have no right to be bitching since that was your home." Her eyes slid to Vallana, her expression softening. "And hers.'

A surprised expression followed that included a slight grimace as FIVE offered something to Scathael to put in his tea. That thing better not be trying to poison them. Can warforged even demonstrate sympathy or even a desire to help others? What's the game here?

Meanwhile, Aerilyn seemed entirely nonchalant, focused on returning to the goblins and manticore hunting. Mari gritted her teeth and shook her leg anxiously, her gaze locked on Vallana as thoughts raced in her head. The urge to confront Aerilyn was strong, to tell her this wasn't something they should just move on from. But the bunny demihuman carried on with further reasoning that was annoyingly logical. It made no sense to linger in one place too long given the circumstances.

What do you care, Mari? This is what you want. You and Thraash are here to make some amas and move on.

Rising from her seat, she moved with a restless energy to serve herself some boar, tearing into it with a ferocity that bordered on aggression. Each rip of meat from bone seemed to release a bit of her pent-up tension. Returning to her seat, she devoured the meal within minutes.

Once finished, she armed and prepared herself. "You'll lead the way, Aerilyn?" Mari asked as she fastened her hair up.

Lorenzo & Charlotte

Time: Morning
Location: Sorian Church

Lorenzo could not help but feel a bit nervous as he and Charlotte arrived at the church. Especially with his streak of causing some type of commotion at whatever gathering he attended. This time (for sure!) he would ensure that he would make no wrong moves. This wouldn't be like the beach. This wouldn't be like the ball. This wouldn't be like breakfast at the park. This wouldn't be like the theater play. This wouldn't be like the dinner with the Alidasht royal family. And to top it all off, Lorenzo hadn't relapsed…yet.

He found Charlotte's suggestion of sitting in the back as they both entered to be genius. It would keep them out of sight and out of mind to the others in attendance and also give them the…

“Perfect opportunity to make fun of the backs of people's heads.” Lorenzo whispered with a mischievous grin.

She giggled and nudged him lightly with her elbow, “And after your legendary hat contest, I'm sure you're more than qualified to judge.” With a small journal in her hand, she and Lorenzo made their way over to a less populated pew in the back and took their seats. “So tell me, what earns the top marks in the Duke of Vermillion’s grand hat league? The audacity of the feathers or the sheer altitude of the hats?” Charlotte then mused with mirth in her gaze. Lorenzo pressed his lips together, stifling a laugh. He briefly allowed a smile to break free before putting on a serious face.

“Hmph. Well, Lady Vikena the feathers and attitudes of competing hats are indeed qualifying factors to earn a place in the realm of the grand hat league but it is often a unique flair that allows a hat to outshine all others.” Lorenzo held his nose up high like a pompous art critic.

“Oh well I’ll certainly keep that in mind. I plan to win the next one.” She patted her head with a cheeky smile. “Going to have a real show-stopper up on this noggin of mine.”

“For instance,” his voice became a whisper. “Do you see the ears on that man three pews ahead, in the blue…” She followed his gaze as he spoke of a man in blue, hesitating briefly. “Charlotte, my dear, if that man turns his head too quickly, he might blow half the members of his pew away.”

“...Oh goodness. The poor dear. “ Charlotte shook her head and teased him, “We’re in a church, we should be nice.” A smirk slowly grew on her lips and she added in a whisper, “It’ll most likely be King Edin’s ego that takes up all the air space in the room and throws us all off the pews.”

“For a second I thought you were mistaking ego for his intolerance to dairy but we haven’t gotten to that part just yet. Speaking of, are you up for attending the grand opening of The Royal Curd as well?” He wondered if she ever felt any event fatigue with so much happening this courting season.

Charlotte sighed thoughtfully. “Hmm… I am a little weary from the ball last night, however, if you are going, I’d like to come with you.” She smiled at him but her eyes saddened, a sight Lorenzo never wished to see on his precious daughter's face. “Truthfully, I’ve missed spending time with you the last few days. I was really glad to hear you wanted me to come with you this morning.”

“Lottie.” He took her hand in his, squeezing it firmly. She returned the gesture immediately and affectionately. “It’s how things should always be. You and I against… whoever seeks to usurp the mighty fairy mermaid queen. And, I'm so very sorry if I made you believe otherwise with how I behaved in the carriage that night. There's no excuse for that and… I don't want to ever worry you… so we can have a long discussion about the things in my room… but only after enjoying all the cheese you can eat.” He smiled, his eyes glistening as they slightly teared up.

As he spoke, the smile on her face finally reached her eyes. “Well… Nobody would respect a future duchess who refused free cheese, so a cheese party it is.” She then leaned her head on his shoulder and added softly, “It’ll always be you and I; I have your back no matter what.”

“And I am grateful, Lottie. I wouldn't have it any other way…” Lorenzo peered down at her, giving her hand another comforting squeeze. “Lottie, you do have my back no matter what. If only you could be my advisor.” He sighed. “Finding someone suitable has been a tad difficult and if I don't choose before Prince Wulfric becomes impatient, he'll select someone for me.”

“... Hmm. Do not fret. I will prepare a list of options for you by the end of this event…” She removed her pen from the binder of the journal, a click filling the air. “Did Prince Wulfric present you any guidelines for what constitutes someone suitable?”

“Hmm.” Lorenzo scratched his head trying to recall the conversation. It was funny how clearly he remembered the prince's unamused expressions more than his words. “I don't think so but it should be someone I would listen to. Someone to help me make better decisions. Emina had been that for me-… though I believe I… I believe I often upset her.”

Charlotte was quiet for a moment before she said, “I often upset her too.” She opened the journal and got to work writing. “No peeking.”





Part 1


@Rodiak Nahir @Silverpaw Wulfric @FunnyGuy Lorenzo @Helo Leo @Apex Sunburn Sjandehk @Potter Kira @JJ Doe Riona @Lava Alckon Farim

As the last notes of the music fades into a silence, a palpable sense of anticipation sweeps through the congregation. The stained glass windows throw a dramatic spectrum of colors across the faces of the awaiting folks amongst the pews.

At that moment, the side door near the altar creaks open, and a new figure with a well-kept dark beard steps into the space. His ceremonial robes rustle softly as he moves to the front. He raises his hands, signaling for quiet.

It is Father Aldric Vorn.

"My children," Father Aldric's voice resonates through the room, his tone deep and clear. "Before the arrival of our sovereign, it is our sacred duty to invoke the divine favor of the gods who watch over us. Please, rise."

As all stood, a collective rustle then sweeps through the pews. Father Aldric waits a moment, before he announces, "Let us call upon our gods, that they might bless this gathering and our beloved king."

"In the light of Zivitas, we find grace," Aldric begins.
"Zivitas, bless us with your light." The congregation answers.

"Under the protection of Triumpheus, we find victory,"
"Triumpheus, guide us to triumph."

"With the wisdom of Imperis, we uphold order,"
"Imperis, grant us your justice."

"Through the bounty of Amora, we cherish love,"
"Amora, fill our hearts."

"Beneath the gaze of Aquena, we navigate life’s currents,"
"Aquena, steer our path."

"From the forge of Duedon, we draw strength,"
"Duedon, fortify our spirit."

"In the storms of Tempestes, we seek shelter,"
"Tempestes, calm our fears."

"Through the forests of Vena, we hunt our aspirations,"
"Vena, lead our pursuits."

As the final echo of the chants fade, the grand doors at the entrance of the church swing open with a dramatic boom that seems to shake the very foundations. As everyone turns their head to watch in unison, they find an orchestra seated in the back of the church. In the front, a choir begins to fill the stands to the left.

The anticipation in the air could be cut with a knife as the sounds of the orchestra fill the congregation's ears.

First arrives a train of ten holy torchbearers, arranged in five pairs. Each holds aloft a massive torch, the flames dancing wildly, casting flickering shadows around them. Their synchronized steps echo through the church, matching the increasing intensity of the orchestral music. The light from their torches bathe the church in a golden glow, setting a dramatic backdrop for the rest of the parade.



Hail Edin, chosen by divine grace,
In his glory, behold the gods’ face.
Triumpheus! Aquena! Imperis!
Amora! Glorius! Tempestes!

Hear the heavens declare his rule just and wise,
Vena! Duedon! Zivitas! Their powers arise!

[King Edin's voice fills the room, but his location is unknown]
Behold me, the reflection of divinity,
My reign, a testament to the gods’ affinity.
Triumpheus. Aquena. Imperis.

Amora! Glorius! Tempestes!

From cosmic battles to peaceful reign,
Vena! Duedon! Zivitas! Echo again!

In Edin’s light, the kingdom thrives,
His name sung by the gods, through our lives.

As the gods chant my name, so does eternity,
In the echoes of the cosmos, my legacy.


Behind the torchbearers, a group of beautiful women in flowing gowns gracefully enter. They carried baskets overladen with flower petals. With each step, they toss the petals into the air. The sweet fragrance of roses lofted through the church.

The atmosphere then shifts again with the thunderous march of the golden knights. Clad in shimmering armor that clink and clank with each heavy step, they raise their swords high. At this point, King Edin's voice is heard through the air as he joins in the song, but he is not seen physically.

The most unexpected performance follows: a troupe of dancers, their faces obscured by oversized, paper-mâché masks resembling King Edin’s head. These dancers, clad in flowing, ethereal fabrics, begin a ballet performance, weaving through the knights and flower maidens. The juxtaposition of the eerie masks with the delicate grace of their dance create a bizarre spectacle.

As the last dancer spins out of the aisle, the congregation is left in a state of awe, their applause thundering through the church. The culmination of this theatrical procession set the stage perfectly for King Edin’s grand entrance.

There, in the threshold, finally appears King Edin, though not merely walking as a common man might. No, he sits upon a magnificent chair, a throne carried aloft on the shoulders of eight men dressed in crimson and gold. The throne itself is gilded and encrusted with jewels.

King Edin sat imperiously upon his elevated seat, his head held high. His crown, outrageously large and elaborate, is set with towering plumes of red and white feathers and glittering gemstones that caught every flicker of light. This crown, dramatic in its size, seems almost a burden to bear, yet it rests securely upon his head.

Behind him, more attendants follow, their sole task to manage the majestic, fur-lined red cape that flowed from his shoulders. This cape is so extensive that it requires the hands of six attendants to ensure it does not brush the ground. Each attendant holds a portion of the fabric, their steps measured to avoid any misstep that might mar the regal display.

As the bearers carry King Edin down the aisle, everyone rises to their feet in unison, a wave of murmurs rolling through the crowd. The sight of their king, elevated above them, is overwhelming, though Edin himself seems to refuse to look upon anyone's face at this point in time.

Upon reaching the front of the church, the bearers gently set the throne down with practiced ease, allowing King Edin to rise. As he steps forward, the bearers and attendants neatly arrange his cape behind him, ensuring that not a fold is out of place. Standing before his people, King Edin raises his hands ceremoniously, and a massive applause follows.






Time: Morning
Location: Church of Sorian
Attire:Dress, Flats, Crown and Earrings
Interaction: @Lava Alckon Farim @Rodiak Nahir


"Whaa? Calby's cool though!" Anastasia had protested in surprise. She paused behind Farim as he introduced himself and smiled. He's so formal and polite. Like when Wulfy and Auguste introduce themselves to people.

Count Damien rose promptly from his seat with a broad smile and presented a formal bow. "Ah, Shehzade Farim, what a tremendous honor to have you with us today, and to have you here in Sorian this season." he responded with enthusiasm. He then gestured to blonde man next to him, "And this, Shehzade, is my good friend, Count Landon Monet. He's traveled from the southeast to visit for a few days."

Count Monet offered a polite nod, extending his hand for a handshake, "Your Highness. Your reputation precedes you...I’ve heard quite a bit about your recent endeavors. They’re quite remarkable." His tone was more measured than Calbert's yet welcoming all the same. "It is indeed good to see you join us, and Princess Anastasia as well. She has quite the fan club among my little ones."

Calbert, ever the charismatic, added with a flourish, "What a treat to have both of you choose to sit with us among all the lovely people here. I must confess, I'm rather excited!" His attention then shifted to Anastasia, who was visibly eager to jump into the conversation.

No longer able to contain her excitement, Anastasia threw her arms around Calbert, exclaiming, "Hi Calby!"

Calbert laughed heartily and wrapped her in a brief hug. "Always a pleasure, my dear!"

Anastasia beamed, stepping back. She waved briefly to Count Landon with a smile, then moved to take her seat next to Farim. The children seemed momentarily preoccupied, busying themselves with a puzzle on the floor, but she'd call their attention soon anyhow.

As Nahir and Ece sat with them, Anastasia’s gaze quickly shifted to the Shehzadi, her eyes lighting up. “Oh wow! Nahir! You look so stunning! ” Anastasia blurted out, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. Her gaze shifted to the woman with her, picking up on her name from Farim's initial greeting. "And so do you, Ece. You're so cute." She patted the seat beside her and smiled at Nahir. "Please come sit with me."


Time:Evening
Location: Calbert's Estate
Attire: Hair Style, Dress
Interaction:@FunnyGuy Lorenzo

Mention: @Potter Olivia @ReusableSword Roman


The morning light crept into Charlotte’s bedroom, bathing her in a warm glow as she sat quietly on the window sill. Still dressed in a flowing white nightgown, she somberly stared out at the world outside her room, the sound of the morning birds and leaves rustling in the breeze a gentle background to her steady thoughts. Her gaze was fixed on a large, old willow tree that was just in reach. Its branches swayed slightly, each leaf a bright green under the touch of the sunlight.

Yet, the beauty of the morning did little to lift the heaviness in her heart. The events of the previous night played back in her mind—a whirlwind of masked faces, threats, and a dance that felt like both an escape and another trouble that would surely brew. She felt drained, even after the long rest, as if each step she had taken to the window had drawn a little more strength from her soul.

As she leaned her head on the wooden frame of the window, a small twitch in her vision on a lower branch of the tree caught her attention. Her gaze soon settled on a little bird, its feathers ruffled and unkempt. It was perched precariously close to the edge. With each labored breath, its tiny chest rose and fell in rapid, struggling gasps. Charlotte's heart clenched at the sight as she furrowed her brows.

She reached out a hand slowly, careful not to startle the suffering bird. The bird didn’t resist as she scooped it into her palms as it was too weak to fly away. Bringing it close to her chest, she could feel the fragile pulse of its tiny heart, a faint flutter against her skin.

Sitting back against the cool frame with the bird cradled softly between her hands, she delicately stroked its blue feathers with her fingertip, barely touching the soft plumage. "It's alright, darling. You're not alone anymore." Over time, the bird seemed to relax slightly, its breaths less fraught. Charlotte watched it with a sadness that welled up from a place deep within her that she couldn't quite source.

There was a reflective pause then, suddenly, she began to sing in a voice that was low and tender:


Close your eyes, my little angel,
On a branch on this tree, under the leaves of the willow,
I found you here today,
And now you're safe,
As the morning embraces us,
I'm here with you.

Rest your wings now dear, the night is over now,
And you're here with me, as the new day dawns.
Close your eyes now, my dear little one,
We're together, and together we'll always be.
In my embrace, please find a sweet dream,
You'll never have another thing to fear.
So close your eyes and here we'll stay.
In this morning dream, it'll just be you and me.

So close your eyes now dear, my little angel,
I found you here today,
Under the leaves of the willow,
As the morning embraces us,
I'm right here with you.
And right here in my heart, you'll always be.


Her lullaby filled the air, at times louder than Charlotte had even noticed. Singing, and certainly music in general, had always been an outlet for her since childhood, but it had been one she had long set aside over the past year. As she sang, the first rays of the sun illuminated her face, casting her in a light that reflected the tears welling in her eyes. The bird's eyes slowly closed, and as the final note of her song drifted into the morning air, it seemed to find peace. Charlotte held it a moment longer, her tearing eyes locked on the bird. Then, gently, she placed it back onto the branch, her heart heavy but a smile forming on her lips.

"I hope you found a lovely dream." She whispered.

It hadn't been long after that when Delilah knocked on her door, and the two of them had climbed into her bed to have their morning tea ritual. Delilah would always bring the two of them team then they'd return to the warmth of the bed and chat over the newspaper. She was weary to find out that once again she and Lorenzo made the headlines and had groaned reading the gossip. Her sigh escaped her lips as she read on, her dismay deepening when she learned that Roman, one of the sweetest people from the Varian Kingdom, made the headlines as well for some reason. She made a mental note to herself to check on him.

Delilah, meanwhile, shifted the conversation toward the day's events. She mentioned that Lorenzo had requested Charlotte's company at the church event, while Olivia had expressed a desire to attend the Courting Mixer. Relieved to hear of Olivia's improved spirits, Charlotte requested that Delilah accompany Olivia and watch over her. The maid was luckily always pleased to go anywhere with mimosas and had even told her all about how she was going to drag Gilbert along. Charlotte had listened with a knowing smile.

As the sun had risen higher in the sky, Delilah asked at the conversation's finality, "... Will you be alright at the church? You've seem down this morning."

"Of course, Delilah." Charlotte told her with a warm smile. " I found out perhaps things may be more difficult than I thought they were going to be... " She perked up and raised her fist, "But I will not yield! ... Just as Gunther of Tides said. "

Delilah took her hands tenderly, "Neither of us will... The morning sun always returns after the long night."

An hour later, Charlotte entered the estate's foyer, attired in a simple blue dress edged with lace at the neckline and her hair tied back with her customary ribbon. She greeted Lorenzo warmly, embracing him without hesitation before they both stepped into the carriage. Upon arriving at the church, they were greeted by the sight of crowded pews, the noise briefly overwhelming. With a slight frown, Charlotte leaned toward her stepfather and whispered, "All in favor of sitting in the back...?"


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