SausagePat

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Ruby & Kazumin

A starving ruby and her chocolate prince [a fated meating]: part one

Time: 10am
Location: Pudding Palace
Mention: [@samreaper] Kazumin

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At Penelope's Pudding Palace, the morning sun spills through large windows, casting a warm glow over the vibrant interior. The air is permeated by the sweet scent of pudding, from classic vanilla and rich chocolate to fruity flavors like mango or banana. The grand circular counter at the heart of the shop showcases these delightful puddings, inviting patrons to indulge in a taste. The room is bustling as families, couples, and pudding enthusiasts of all ages marvel at the puddings.

All was peaceful until the doors suddenly swung open and a loud bang echoed through the establishment. A blonde haired, multi-color-eyed, raggedy looking woman entered from the doorway, making no aim to consider her surroundings as the door slammed against the wall from sheer force. With eyes wide open, the young woman studied the place from just beyond the entrance. Was such observation out of pure delight? Or was it more that of discontentment? The answer to that would soon be apparent as the blonde inched toward the front counter, eyeing the menu brightly lit by a peering sun.

The young lady’s forceful entry was certain to get attention with shocked gasps and the likes. Had the cafe been peaceful? The slightly irritated expressions on several patrons seemed to say otherwise, nor was the place exactly quiet. Very much the opposite, as sounds of clothes ruffling could soon be heard following an audible sipping once the abrupt commotion died down.

The source of such seeming irritant currently sat at the center table, a most obnoxiously impossible-to-miss fanciful dressed gentleman.

A suit that instantly caught the eyes with fronds and frill for days and a colorful-feathery tower bouncing atop the equally tall hat. He sat with jovial delight with a dazzling grin to match, the gloriously trimmed mustache aiding in obscuring the grin’s brightness, a tickling sniffle of the nose.

Clutched in his right gloved hand, the source of the cutting sound, a fresh cup of hot cocoa sporting a mountain of scream drizzled with chocolate. A white stache dabbing the mustache as it pulled from the dapper gentleman’s lip with a satisfied ‘ahh’” Delightful! Such enthusiasm for pudding is deserving of a treat.” A snap of the fingers.” A bowl for the boisterous lady!” He bellowed out then took a sip; wiggling his mustache purposefully at Ruby in hopes of her catching on.

Ruby continued to stagger forward in a daze. It appeared that a sense of hunger and a particular craving filled her mind at the moment. After not seeing the desired entree on the menu, she mouthed audibly, “I need to get some beef right now.” There must have been someone in this palace with a slab of beef on their plate. She scanned the room full of people, starting at their plates before making her way up to their faces.

He sat, observingly; a long sip of his cup of hot cocoa sporting a mountain of cream coated in chocolate and cinnamon powder. He was curious and worried as he saw the all too famiiar zombie-hunger walk in Ruby’s current mannerisms.

Everyone seemed to be overdressed for the occasion compared to Ruby. One outfit in particular caught her attention as she peered from table to ‘stache. The man was wearing a most vibrant suit, that which Ruby thought fit for a king. It took a few moments before she realized that underneath the cream-covered mustache, feathery top hat, and bountiful sleeves, was a wild Kazumin.

“Kazu!!!!” she yelped. She was used to his unique style, but this could be considered flashy even for Kazumin. A small droplet of sweat dripped from her forehead as she studied his ensemble. Ruby was not expecting such an exciting start to her morning, although it’s hard to say whether her perspiration was a result of adrenaline or perhaps last night’s mini-bender catching up to her.

Her Recognition earned her a big wiggling of the nose, making the big bowtie to almost wave from the rustling in response. ” Salutations, dear Ruby!” He called out with a small toast of his hot cocoa then leaned over to grab whatever nearest staff and whispered. ” Can’t you see the poor, starving and downright striking lady over there? Better get this table covered with food or…” Said with serious intent, releasing his grip, not wishing to delay any longer. ” Make haste for I fear her rumble is nearly upon us.” Returning to his seat, where he could only wait and seriously take a serious sip of his serious cocoa for this was indeed now, a very serious matter.

There was indeed a rumble beginning in the depths of her stomach, which only became apparent to her after overhearing Kazu say the word.

“RUMBLE? For what do we think is about to rumble?” she voiced cheekily, rubbing her belly on her way over to his spot. She then proceeded to plop herself down in a seat next to him, making an exaggerated sigh as she let gravity do the work.

“I am so hungry,” she stated, then took a glance at his frothy drink. Since when do they serve delicious chocolatey drinks at a meat shop? She was sure that was the kind of business she walked into, but after the scent of vanilla and custard began to hit her nose, Ruby started to question the legitimacy of this place.

Briefly released from her dilemma, she turned her attention toward Kazu and began to fiddle with his distracting costume. “What is the occasion, Kazu?” Ruby inquired, touching each frill as to compare them with each other. “It’s not everyday that I get the chance to ruffle your feathers in such a literal manner.” She giggled frantically while waiting for his reply.

For the briefest moment he could almost feel the rumble as it happened, as if sharing in her plague. A sensation all too familiar of their ilk; a noble’s ignorance bliss and a peasant’s eventual demise.

A quick grumbling dismissal of the head, his free left gloved hand pressed firmly as he held his serious gait, a refusal to let such needless thoughts ruin the mood nor this glorious cup of cocoa.

Maintained until lady Ruby joined him at the table, where he smoothly and gently placed the cup down, the handling of a delicate newborn chick with nary a chink. Following, the suited mustachio slid to his feet and to her chair and gave a light tug, a faint scrape. Once properly seated, casually returned to his own; feathers and frills ruffling lightly, crisp and clean without a drop, when place amongst a table of delights of easy slips.

“ Ah, dear Ruby. A wondrous surprise, indeed. You’ve caught me enjoying- er I mean suffering my punishment.” A playful titter, refraining from elaborating at the moment. With a rushing wisp of a bright, orange handkerchief to dab at his lips, then picked up his cup.” And fret not, for while meat may be sparse here, but I’m sure that sweet tooth is equally as ravenous.” All said with that serious expression, instantly changing back to his previous relaxed form before taking a refreshing long sip.

Ruby looked lovingly at Kazu as he dabbed a handkerchief to his mouth. She was so delighted to see him, especially in what appeared to be his element— here amongst sweets and pudding galore. But the news of no meat being consumed any time soon quickly wiped the happiness out of her eyes. This might be it. “It might actually be over for me” she thought. With complete dramatization, Ruby said in a low, cracked voice, “I don’t think you understand, Kazy. I - I …need. Meats. I might not survive the morning without them” she droned on, fully convinced that the greasy tenderness would cure her affliction.

The mustached gentleman frowned with concern, were that he could magic up a plate of meat. Or the very least his pocket sausage. Left with the overalls sadly; fancy pockets always were too small, frustratingly so.

With her head hung low and back bent over, she moaned and placed both hands palm-down onto the table. She had to consume something, at least. The pounding headache she was experiencing wasn’t going to go away on its own. That was when she decided that Kazu might have a point. She did typically have a penchant for sweets.

Glancing up from her crouched position, she set her eyes on the nearest staff member and raised her hand, motioning them over. “Hello beautiful!! Ahh.. yes over here!”
She waited until the apparent staff approached a little closer, then she spewed out her requests.
“What kind of delights do you have for a dying girl? I’ll take your best dish. Just make sure it’s thick. And creamy.” Ruby looked over to Kazu, seemingly awaiting his approval. “I’m sure you know this fine man here” she pointed at Kazumin, as if to gain some appreciation by associating herself with him. “He is the pudding king. A connoisseur. If you could just give me something fit for such a lad, then I am positive that I will enjoy it”. And with that, she knelt back over the table and her eyes began to drift closed.

Now sitting with his chin rested against the back of his hands propped up by the elbow in a playfully relaxed manner watching Ruby give her order. Taking in the delight in her face even when she stared; an assumption of joy shared of eating sweets with a cherished friend.

Raising a brow when upon taking notice the order had shifted to compliments towards him which he would give a small dismissing wave.” Please, please! You’re far too sweet with your words, Ruby. A wondrous sweet tooth you have, indeed.” He chuckled sitting back up with a quick stroking flick of the mustache ending with an open motion towards the wall on the left.” But, no need for the wonderful staff to know my face all too well, presence and appearance excluded.” Said wall was hosting several pictures of Kazu in various poses and outfit, a shared commonality of pudding stain somewhere.

” Cumbersome it may be eating without some mess aside, they have gotten my visage impeccably… though I dare say..” pausing to hear a most unsettling rumble from Ruby’s tummy. ” A challenger may perhaps join me on said wall before long.” Leaning forward to give her hand supporting pat.” Fitting it be this ravenous gem and though a beauty, know that this is not a crown this pudding connoisseur gives up easily. Do be sure to bring food till her fill.” He finished a warm smile, a hint of competitive spark as he took a quietly scooped up a big spoonful of pudding and scarfed it down in playful challenge.

Ruby grinned at Kazu, her mismatched eyes flickering between hunger and annoyance. The first spoonful of pudding was already halfway to her mouth before she realized what she was doing.

“Alright, fine, Kazu. Let’s see what this does for me,” she muttered, shoveling the pudding into her mouth.

As soon as the sweet, creamy texture hit her tongue, something seemed to snap. Her eyes widened in shock, and before Kazu could respond, she was on the next spoonful, then the next—her hand moving faster than she could think. “More,” she mumbled between bites, her voice muffled by the pudding. She barely swallowed before yelling louder, “MORE!”

Without missing a beat, the waiters scurried over, piling more bowls of pudding onto the table, stacking them in front of her. Ruby barely acknowledged them, her spoon flying between dishes as she devoured each one with a crazed intensity. Pudding smeared across her lips, and she was leaning over the table now, scooping up bites faster than the waiters could keep up.

“MORE!” she barked again, her eyes wild as yet another bowl landed in front of her. She grabbed it, spooning the contents into her mouth without hesitation. Vanilla, chocolate, mango—it didn’t matter anymore. She was in full-on pudding frenzy.

As another dish was placed in front of her, Ruby finally paused long enough to catch her breath, only to yell again, “THIS ISN’T BEEF!” She slammed her spoon down, glaring at the poor waiter who had just placed the latest bowl.

“I need meat!” she declared with pure dramatic flair, but that didn’t stop her from grabbing another spoonful of pudding. “But until then... more pudding. Keep it coming!”

The waiters exchanged confused glances but continued to pile on more dishes, now struggling to find space on the table. Ruby, meanwhile, had fully embraced the chaos. She was like a woman possessed, spooning pudding into her mouth as if it might vanish if she didn’t eat it fast enough.

“Kazu!” she gasped mid-bite, waving her spoon in his direction. “This... this might be the end of me. If I keep going like this... I might actually become pudding!”

But even as she said it, she leaned into yet another bowl, her enthusiasm for the sweets now bordering on madness. “But what a way to go, huh?”
Kazu sat there all the while, simply beaming at the sight of Ruby scarfing down like a starving wildebeest.* Ah, the wildebeest hunger. A classic.* Chuckled amusingly to himself as he ate carefully and gracefully {less he stained this grandiose suit). A delicate scoop of pudding. A delicious treat and view of the pretty gem enjoying herself amongst the confused staff; a sight all too common and shared to the palace dismay.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @masterducky Mie

Ruby was relieved that Mie did not seem flustered by her boisterous intrusion. She was clearly enjoying herself and simply wanted to warn Ruby about how skittish the rats could be.

"Oh, of course! I’m so sorry" she whispered. "Small creature does not like big sound. Noted." Ruby uttered quietly to herself in response.

As Mie explained to Ruby the ongoing development of her rat connections, she began to glisten with intrigue. This prompted her to step up as close as she could to the girl, offering no thought to that of personal boundaries. She smiled wide and nodded her head at her.

"That is lovely. Just unbelievable! I mean, I have had my fair share of bonding with rodents and other creatures of the night… but, to make them dance! "

"You have a talent." she exclaimed, still trying to keep her voice down. "My name’s Ruby, by the way." she said soon after realizing that an introduction might be appropriate. "Could we be friends? Show me how to conduct the rats like you?"

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Evening
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @masterducky Mie

Ruby's heart raced as she watched Mie interact with the rats from behind a crate. She had been searching the docks for random treasures when she came across the scene before her. Despite her usual bravado, a surge of nervous energy coursed through her veins and she couldn’t help but yelp loudly, revealing herself. Since she was revealed, she decided she could not hide no more.

With a shaky exhale, Ruby took a hesitant step forward, her hands trembling at her sides. "Um, hey," she stammered. "I-I didn't mean to interrupt or anything. Just, uh, thought I'd come say hi."

But as she drew closer, Ruby's pulse rose, her chest tightening with each passing moment. Panic was rising up inside her, threatening to spill over at any second.

And then it happened - a sudden burst of noise erupted from her lips, a wild scream tearing through the air. "Aaaah!" Ruby cried out. She clapped a hand over her mouth, eyes wide with shock at her own outburst.

As she calmed down once more, Ruby's breaths came in ragged gasps. She forced herself to take a deep breath. Then she demanded, “ …How do you make the rats dance! “

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @PapaOso Cassius @Potter Olivia @ReusableSword Roman
Mentions: @Potter Layla @FunnyGuy Lorenzo

Eyes heavy. Weighted down over her eyeballs like sheets tucked tightly under their bed corner. Limbs weak; a few jolts shot through them in an attempt to regain control, but alas nothing of significance came about. Ruby was paralyzed by her fear, or maybe this was one of those sleeps that you couldn’t wake from. Ruby had had those many times before– the sort where you know that you’re sleeping, only the mind and body disagree entirely. She didn’t remember exactly what happened last, yet she could hear some mumbles coming from those around her.

“Yououer maj ..estey- BYYYY THE GOODS! NNUOOO!” someone was shouting, yet the words came to her quite distorted.

"Excuse me... Lord Cassius…Could you please assist ..” Cassius! Is that his name? Oh dear. I am so sorry, Cassero–ius! I meant you no offense!

Hello?? Why is nobody answering me!? Ruby heard further mumbling, although anymore was indecipherable to her sleeping mind. The next thing that she felt was a sensation of her hair being plucked out of her head. This irritated her ever-so intensely that she might just be able to snap out of it. Time for her was moving at an unreliable pace. One more irritated jolt pulsated through her body, and then she soared upright and out of her sleep.

“WaaOWW!.. LET GO OF MY HAIR, SCOUNDREL.” Ruby shouted in frustration and pain. Shocked, she gazed around at the group that joined her on a blanket in the sand. A new face was present, and several familiar ones appeared in front of her. She vigorously rubbed her eyes to make sure she was awake this time. “Livvy! Oh, it is so good to see you. I– I didn’t meant that.” she blurted out, recalling now that her words were unwarranted.

“What is going on? Did we all get entirely too slap-happy on this beach earlier?” Ruby chuckled in amusement as she strove to remember earlier events. “Hey, I remember!” Ruby pointed at Cassius, who was sitting on the blanket in front of her, and shook her finger across the circle at Olivia and the other fellow as well. “That devil girl, Layla? Is that her name? Ohh, she must have brought some bad juju to this-here beach! I am very sensitive to that kind of stuff!” she said in a high-pitched, concerned-kind of voice. “What about you all? Are you quite alright?” Ruby projected her concern onto her friends, and with complete sincerity, she gripped Liv’s hand and gave it a nice squeeze.

“Thank you.” she muttered. She was not entirely sure as to what she was thanking Olivia for, nonetheless she knew that she had assisted in some way in bringing her to the safety of this environment after that evil witch nearly took them all down. Her eyes were wide with gratitude at this moment. In the next moment to come, Ruby had something else on her mind.

“Did you guys bring any snacks? Any nibblers? This is just the perfect spot for a picnic."

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @samreaper Kazumin @princess Charlotte @PapaOso Cassius @Potter Olivia

“CHARLOTTE! HI!!!!” Ruby exclaimed as she reciprocated her hug. When Charlotte let go, Ruby clung to her awkwardly for a moment before releasing her from grip. It was when she began hearing an introduction of sorts that she surrendered. Ruby looked at Olivia and wondered who the hell she was for a moment, staring at her with wide, blinking eyes before she shifted her gaze to Cassius and drank him straight up with her eyes. “Well... Hello there, Lord Cassius. Count Damien’s son...Count Damien’s bastard!”

She slapped her knee loudly as if he had said something hilarious. “You’re a bastard!? That’s great news! You’ll fit right in, ye ‘ol bastard!” Then Cassius turned his attention on Charlotte and he seemed to like her as far as Ruby could tell. She wiggled her brows and folded her arms with intrigue. Her suspicion was proven correct when she heard some girl yell that he had said Charlotte’s name last night. She firmly reminded him, “Listen here, Casserole.. if you’re going to put the moves on Charlotte, you have to commit to Charlotte. Nobody wants a fickle fizzbucket.. Get it together, ya hunk! “ Ruby demanded, in her mind, on behalf of her friend.

Before Cassius could quite answer, some pretty lady angrily came over and started yapping at the other girl, then the redhead Olivia started yapping and Cassius started yapping. Ruby felt that it was a yap-fest, but a most unfortunate one in which she couldn’t get a word of her own in. Quite quickly, it was getting overwhelming as the tensions rose and Ruby clutched her head and suddenly screamed bloody murder, followed by locked knees and a dramatic drop to the ground. It was time for a nap.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @samreaper Kazumin @princess Charlotte @PapaOso Cassius @Potter Olivia

Kazumin recalled his past few days and Ruby listened with such intent that it felt like she was being read a wild bedtime story. It was either the way in which he sketched his experiences, adding in a little juice with each detail, or it may have just been that he lived a truly exhilarating life. Knowing Kazu, she’d believe the latter just as well.

After hearing about his week, she could understand his hesitance when she had mentioned the Duke. Although we all know how the dear, sweet farm boy can be about his food.. Ruby was just glad to know that they seemed to have a mutual friend in town.
“May every waffle, and every pancake or other breakfast food that was annihilated at that stand, rest in peace.” she proclaimed after seeing Kazu shed a tear on their account.

[moments after a daydreaming scene filled with waffles, pancakes, and Kazumin abruptly left Ruby’s brain]

Ruby paced back and forth in her designated area on the beach, as to confine her inner dilemma into a smaller vicinity, one that may be less noticeable to those around. Kazu continued to worry himself with his catch of the day, or maybe– his new best friend, Otto. A rush of jealousy surely passed through Ruby’s veins after watching him wrestle the squirmy creature from his face several times. Is that what it takes? Should I be more clingy in relationships? After all, people just want to feel loved…

Many questions ran through her mind as she subconsciously proposed the varying explanations for her inadequacies when it came to relationships. She simply never found it easy to get close to most people. But Kazumin was different, Ruby thought. He never seemed to judge her for declarations of joy, or of fear, or even… anger. Like right now. Charlotte!

Kazu’s hand touched her shoulder and Ruby, in almost any other circumstance, would have melted right then and there. This was different. Her newest friend was being humiliated right in front of her! What could she possibly have done to deserve this? She was so kind to Ruby upon their encounters. Clearly, there was a lot going on in such a short time. “Kazu, if that were you, I’d push that smoothie right back into her smug face then and there!!” she said, her voice drowning in excited rage. Kazu made an effort to calm her down, an attempt that would likely be appreciated by everyone. She listened to his words, but reason did little more than distract her from the target— though this was something of value.

”Whew. Talk about a hectic scene. Looks like things have settled down. So you know Charlotte too, huh? Guess we got a lot more to share than we thought.”

“Yes, I know Charlotte too! Isn’t she just the sweetest and loveliest girl you’ve ever met? Wow, she is just gorgeous. Her clothes are absolutely stunning. Do not tell, but I’ve borrowed from her closet before!” Ruby diverted the subject as usual, but rage still filled her. “And look what she’s done to her beach attire now! THAT’S IT.” she cried. As Ruby began marching forward, she noticed the crowd of guards surrounding her. A flashback to the ballroom filled her mind. Ohhh noo.. These guards are already not fond of me. I don’t feel like being drug away by them from another public place.

Ruby nervously picked at her fingernails. I will approach cautiously.

“Go on ahead, Ruby. I'm sure seeing friendly faces will cheer her up. I'll be along shortly.” Kazu shouted, adding something about a fish dinner as she trotted off through the sand.

Others were already coming to Charlotte’s rescue as she approached, but this didn’t stop Ruby from coming up to say a friendly hello. As she approached, she noticed a red-haired girl sitting at Charlotte’s side silently and a brown-haired man in leather pants. Not wanting to interrupt, she awkwardly came to stand right behind them, the tips of her feet practically touching their backs, her eyes darting between them as they spoke. Inevitably, they’d most likely glance up and see her looming over them. Once she was noticed, she smiled down at them. “Hello! Don’t mind me… Please continue.”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions:@samreaper Kazumin @princess Charlotte

Standing with both feet in water, the small blonde took notice as the countless granules brushed against her legs with each wave. She glared at Kazumin in anticipation of his response regarding the fish party he had acquired. There was still a big smile implanted on her face as she recalled Kazu’s compliment, whether or not it involved comparing her to an octopus.

He really thinks that I’M pretty? she blushed in her stance.

If hearts could have appeared in Ruby’s eyes, they would have. She cupped her cheeks as her mind ran wild with possibilities. For a moment, she imagined her and Kazu each holding a tentacle as they skipped through a field together, just the three of them. She laughed loudly for no apparent reason, only returning her attention to the present when she heard Kazumin speak of the fish.

As Kazumin began to crawl, she echoed him and got down in the sand, crawling behind him. As he laughed, she scooted closer to gaze upon the net with feral interest. “Ohohoh…”

“Oh Kazumin, I am so glad you asked. So the other day I went to the park to eat waffles at the pancake event. I took all of the flavors. I love the chew and I gnawed on my waffles with vigor, Kazumin. I really did. But then Duke Lorenzo started fighting with the people in the line and I ran away. What a man he is! I keep running into him.. Later that day, I got slapped by a doctor at a play… Then I went home and slept a lot. I spent most of yesterday asleep because the other day was too CRAZY!” She shouted the last word. Then she smiled and softly asked, “And what about you Kazumin? How was your day?”

It was then she noticed just a bit down the beach a woman with long curly hair dumping the contents of a cup on… Charlotte?! Ruby screamed as if a murder had occurred before her. “Kazumin! My friend is being assaulted. “ she pointed toward the group as she sat up in the water. ”Quick! Grab Otto, we may need his tentacles if things go south.” Ruby warned Kazu, preparing to assist her friend in action. She couldn’t just up and leave her long lost best friend after all this time, so she was hoping that he’d soon follow her.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interaction: Kazu @samreaper

Ruby was staring wide-eyed at Kazu in awe at his tale. She knew that he was the adventurous type, and was he up to something already on this fine day! Ruby listened intently as he described his experience, nodding and smiling at his descriptions, like the rock that resembled a worm in a pot.

“Kazumin! ” she yelled as he began shouting outward to the shark. “Why are you out defeating sea creatures by yourself!?! I know you’re strong and all… but those SHARK BASTARDS!!” Ruby screamed, assisting Kazu in his directed rage. “ONE-EYED WILLIES! They have no mercy!”

Screaming ceased and Ruby looked around to gather an idea of what was going on. She quickly rummaged through the water to pick up a sturdy rock as her weapon, in case of war. Kazu looked ready to charge, so Ruby also prepared herself. Then, the strangest thing happened. Her dear farm boy’s net was right in front of them, filled to the brim with varying sea creatures. Wow! Low and behold, the boy skilled in managing land was also cultivating a skill within the sea.

“You did it! You’ve gathered the fish party!” she screeched excitedly, performing a little dance in front of them. Kazu then pointed out the ‘Otto’ he kept talking about. As it made its way onto his head, Ruby smiled bright as she reached out to pet it. How does one show admiration for a sea creature besides touching it?

“Well, my dear Otto. You’re the reason for all this commotion, huh! I guess you may just be worth it.” she spoke joyfully to the adorable, tentacled creature. “And Kazu here, who strictly fought for his life to obtain you, is also the bestest. ” Ruby gave a side-eyed smirk toward Kazu, unable to contain her exhilaration. “Can you just imagine if I were an octopus? Propelling myself through the water, feeding on crabs and such, if that’s what they eat? And one day, in my peaceful journey through the seafloor, a wild Kazu appears to give me a bro fist! Ah, that would be a day alright.” she giggled, amused at the thought.

“Now, just what are we going to do with all these fish?”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Mid -> late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @samreaper
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Commotion ensued shortly after Ruby’s cry strewed along the beach. She felt an uncanny sense of comfort as the beachgoers panicked with her. It is hard to say whether this was because she felt that her worries were heard, or because deep down she thrived on chaos, the one constant she knew in her life. Either way, she invoked a rather interesting scene just before her.

At this point, Ruby was able to catch a glimpse at the water and to her surprise, there was no wild creature looming behind her, only several visitors pummeling by as they took her concern seriously.

One such visitor was covered in a layer of … seaweed? What did they do, fight the ocean’s creatures barehanded? the thought passed Ruby’s mind as she coined this young man her new hero. It was then that the face of this victor was visible. The beautiful man from across the beach earlier. Her long distance vision has been known to fail her, but how could she have not recognized her old friend? A bit of embarrassment filled her mind, both for not sooner discerning her dear friend, as well as admitting to herself just how charmed she was by him.

"RUBY!" a loud cry came from his mouth.

She was prepared to embrace him, seaweed covered arms and all. But just as he came to approach her, a large wave washed over his back and he was soon implanted into the sand before her.

“KAZU!” she squealed, hurrying over to help him. There were still a few stragglers running along the shore, thanks to Ruby’s own announcement. “Get off him! There is a man under there!!” she shouted at them.

Kazu said something under his breath and relief perfused Ruby’s mind as she at least knew that he was conscious. “I guess the beach decided that you needed a wash, seaweed boy.” she remarked to her friend.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Mid -> late morning
Location: Sorian Beach
Interactions: @samreaper
Soundtrack:

Ruby’s body remained hidden under the water for a great deal of seconds. She was not counting the time that she sank into the quiet surges beneath the surface, but it would have been enough to worry any onlooker if they were paying attention. She continued to sink until her breath ran out, and then dramatically flailed back up to the confines of societal obligation, or back to the shore of Sorian beach. This was how Ruby felt as she returned her focus to the varying faces of those scattering the area.

It wasn’t all bad, though. In the grand scheme of things, she was just as ‘normal’ as they were now. She attended the same events, dressed the part for each one, and continued to make acquaintances along the way. She may have been truly divided from the working class for most of her life, but now she was just another among the crowd. Nobody even notices, right?

Feeling a new sense of belonging, Ruby thought that she ought to explore the parts of this beach more thoroughly. That is until she noticed a blonde, shaggy-headed boy with a beautifully freckled face whose eyes were lingering her way. ”What a dream!” she whispered to herself, sure this time that he was the one. The way his golden hair glistened in the sun and how his bony prominences stuck out perfectly right did not get overlooked by Ruby.

Eager to approach him, she noticed the worried look on his face. It was not her that he was looking at, but something behind her. Of course this was the case, she thought. But what was he looking at? She was too terrified to look behind her in fear of what she might see. Ruby loved the water, but she also knew what creatures wander within it. If she was about to die right now, she was to be fixated on the eye-candy staggering across the beach.

People along the beach began to focus their attention near and this did not soothe Ruby’s worry of some imminent danger. Her strength had been pushed to its limit. Without even looking behind her to ensure the thing in which she feared was there, she let out a cry for help.

“SOMETHING IS IN THE WATER! HELP! IT IS COMING AFTER ME”