Tae

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Early Evening
Location: Caesonia Ballroom
Interactions: @Mole Prince Felix @Helo Leo @Aerandir Verrick @Inertia Prince Auguste
Mentions: @Rodiak Nahir

---

”Yes, very thrilling Leo. However, next time you decide you wanna dance with death like that when I’m around can you include me in it? I’d rather die with you than watch you die.” Thea said with a sigh to her brother, doing her best to keep her composure and not yell. She did manage, however, to give him a small smile in order to indicate that she was alright now. That smile quickly turned into a grimace as Leo went on to greet Prince Felix and kindly reminding her that she was to eventually marry this man. She found her gaze trailing over to the wine table as she longed for another drink now, especially as it seemed Felix grip tightened on her. It took every fiber of her being to keep from shoving him away from her. Could she find some way to justify another drink after her promise?

Her attention was pulled back to what was happening in front of her as one of the Alidasht princesses introduced herself. Seeing Nahir up close, Thea found herself entranced by the woman’s beauty. She couldn’t admire her for long, however, as Felix nudged her once again into a bow and irritation ran through her once more. This time she couldn’t hold back the small glare she gave him, but still she kept her mouth shut. She swore she could taste blood as she bit the inside of her lip in order to keep herself in check.

Thankfully Verrick pulled her attention and helped to create a bit of a distraction from her internal thoughts. Did he just…compliment me? She thought to herself briefly, taken a bit aback by the kind words, but then she found herself smiling as she saw an opportunity. ”Thank you Verrick, your compliment has brightened my night.” She responded before he left, then found herself briefly glancing at Felix, wondering what his reaction would be. She did take note of him loosening his grip on the hilt of his sword once Verrick was gone and it only caused her to grin even wider.

It was the approach of Prince Auguste and she knew the greeting that was coming that pushed Thea over the edge. Before he could nudge her into another bow, Thea yanked herself away from Felix. ”I am aware of when it is customary to bow, my Prince! No need for a constant reminder as I am not an imbecile!” She snapped at him, letting out a huff of irritation. She straightened herself, looked to Prince Auguste, and dipped into a perfect curtsy all on her own.

”It is a pleasure to see you again, Prince Auguste. I do hope you can forgive my outburst. While my mood has been soured, I assure you it is not from you or the early event of the evening.” She stood straight once more, forcing a small smile on her face before glancing around the group. ”Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to find the powder room.” She spun around and made her leave, though she wasn’t truly heading for the powder room. Instead she made her way to one of the wine tables as she now desperately needed a glass.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Beach
Interactions: @Helo Bowyn @princess Annya, @Potter Rue, & @Shard Inori
Mentions:
Outfits:
Eris New Outfit
Raven New Outfit

---

”It’s that exact thinking that’ll end up causing more problems!” Raven suddenly whirled on Bowyn, fury in her eyes. When he’d started talking she’d felt ice creep into her veins, but now it was replaced by fire. ”You speak of genocide and that…well, that is evil. So who’s the real one here letting evil creep into them, hmm? What’s your plan after you wipe them out? What happens when Avalia ends up not exactly like you think it would be without the Dark Elves? What happens when it’s not any brighter? Gonna blame it on another race? Maybe it’s the Light Elves since it’s obvious you aren’t a huge fan of them either and their obviously not innocent in all this.” She hadn’t taken notice of anything else happening around them, instead she was hyper focused on Bowyn. A soft breeze started to swirl around the group, but Raven had yet to notice that either.

”You are adding to the darkness of this world with how you think, Bowyn. I understand you’ve probably been through some dark things as have a lot of people, but that does not give an excuse for genocide.” She now glanced between Bowyn and Annya. ”So if genocide is either of your goals in this war then I will have absolutely NO part of it. Send me home now if that’s even a thought.” She stood up, now focusing on Annya. ”I’m going down to cool off in the water. Don’t worry, I’ll stay in sight.” The last sentence had a hint of sarcasm to it, born purely out of her mood. She began walking towards the water now, still not having noticed the newcomer or when Rue collapsed.

Meanwhile Eris had just watched things unfold in silence, finding some amusement in Raven’s outburst and small display of magic. Truly, she was impressed that the girl’s magic didn’t explode more in her anger. Even angry, Raven was still trying to keep her magic under control. She glanced up at Inori now, having noted him before he’d even come over, yet said nothing about it. ”Well that was all awfully exciting, was it not? I’ll accept your invitation for drinks. That sounds-” She was cut off as Rue collapsed and she looked at the young fairy in some alarm. She quickly moved to the girls side and knelt down, assessing her for a moment. ”Rue, dear, can you hear me?” That was when all hell broke loose.

Above them all a broadcast appeared showing a demon, a human, and dark elves. Pride was this demon's name and prideful they were it seemed. Eris watched as the demon pulled the human apart in a horrific display, but her attention was quickly caught by a horrified scream. Raven, not far from the group, had paused to see what was happening. As the human began being pulled apart, she felt terrified and ill as she let out a scream. She dropped to her knees, closed her eyes, and covered her ears almost in a panic. ”I wanna go home! I wanna go home1” She started sobbing as she rocked back and forth, but that wasn’t all that happened. Her magic broke loose as wind began to swirl around her rapidly. Swiftly a tornado had formed, kicking sand up everywhere and rising higher into the sky. In the center of it was Raven, not realizing she was now being lifted off the ground, as she remained in a state of panic.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Early Evening
Location: Caesonia Ballroom
Attire: Outfit
Interactions: @Rodiak Nahir
Mentions: @Omni5876 Amir @13org Mayet @Potter Layla

---

Nestled within the dancers of the Alidasht party was a young woman who had been with the Kadir family for the past ten years. While technically a servant of the family, thanks to Esrin, Hafiz, and some of the Kadir children, Saiya was treated more like a family member. She wasn’t blood, however, so she wasn’t allowed to walk within formation with the others. She had been offered to enter behind all of them, but she instead chose to join the dancers as dancing was one of the few things that actually brought her joy. So when the chaos struck, she was one of the last to realize what was happening.

She ended up silently slinking back behind the Alidasht party and blending into the crowd a bit, quietly waiting for it all to end as she knew there wasn’t much she could currently do. Things ended up calming and the Alidasht party dispersed with the guards taking point at different areas within the ballroom. Three of her six brothers were a part of those guards here within the ballroom and she could feel their eyes on her occasionally. Over the years she’d kept a relationship with them, but in truth she’d grown much closer to the Kadir family than to them. While they were treated with respect, she knew some of them resented her for the position she was in. Not quite a noble, but treated far better than any of the servants, they envied her. Still she felt caged, unable to truly be her own person.

She was about to retreat into the shadows of the ballroom, merely to observe the festivities, when she spotted Grand Vizier Hafiz coming straight for her. She steeled herself for whatever the man was about to ask of her, knowing she wasn’t going to get off easy tonight. ”Dearest Saiya, you don’t need to stand off to the side with the other servants. You are like my daughter, you should mingle and have fun. Engage in conversation, take the chance to get to know these northern kingdoms.” He gave her what others may perceive as a kind and even loving smile, but Saiya could read between the lines of his words. Gather information, listen to conversations, and make sure no one here meant any harm to the Kadir family. Learn what she could about these people, uncover secrets that could be used against them. Of course that’s what he’d want, he always wanted to know everything about everyone.

She understood, now, why he had her dress in a far fancier dress than the other dancers. She was to play an Alidasht noble tonight. ”As you wish, Your Excelency.” She said softly to him as she dipped down into a bow before silently walking out into the crowd. If she was to mingle then she was going to take the chance to speak with those she already knew and make sure they were okay. Amir seemed to be occupied with the woman who pleaded for her father, Munir was engaged with a lovely redheaded woman, and Mayet was speaking to a prince. She could go speak to Layla, but the chances of her being venomous to her were rather high, especially after the fiasco. Nahir seemed to be unoccupied and a small smile formed on Saiya’s face as she headed towards the woman.

Her and Nahir had almost always been incredibly close, but they really bonded after Esrin had passed. Nahir treated Saiya as if she were another one of her sisters and Saiya greatly appreciated it. So she had no hesitations in approaching her and making sure she was doing alright after everything. The woman was at the wine table and Saiya placed herself beside her. ”Well it’s been quite the eventful night, hasn’t it?” She gave Nahir a smile, but her eyes showed her concern. Saiya took a glass of wine for herself, if only to appear like everyone else as she wasn’t fond of the stuff. She swirled the liquid for a moment, watching it before looking back to her friend. ”Are you doing alright?” There was genuine concern apparent in her voice.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Interactions: @Inertia Auguste @Helo Callum
Mentions: @Silverpaw Wulfric @13org Mayet

---

As Sultan Raif approached King and Queen Danrose, he noted that there were two new young men with them that weren’t there before. He could only assume these were the other two princes of Caesonia, had they arrived late? It had seemed like they were potentially being scolded for something as he approached, but he said nothing of the sort. He merely gave them all a charming smile as Callum and Auguste introduced themselves to him. ”And upon both of you, may there be peace. Truly I am honored to be here as are my children.” He said as he gave a small bow before glancing up to King Edin and his wife.

”King Edin, I do hope that the rest of this season goes by smoothly. My children are still learning your customs, I do hope you can forgive them for any…missteps they may take.” It was the the best apology he could give for the earlier drama and any other drama that may occur while his children stayed for the season. Truth be told, Sultan Raif was actually looking forward to some peace and quiet away from his children. He couldn’t wait until his week of stay here was over and he could return to Genasea.

He then glanced over to his daughter, Mayet, and Prince Wulfric as he grinned a little before looking back to Edin and Alibeth. ”And who knows, perhaps by the end of this season we may be related?” He said, a little playfully, though he had a feeling this king would not be too fond of that idea. ”Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go enjoy this wonderful feast you have prepared.” With that he left for one of the food tables.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Early Evening
Location: Caesonia Ballroom
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @Infinite Cosmos Munir
Mentions:

Thankfully things seemed to simmer down as it seemed everyone interjecting annoyed the Sultan to the point he gave up on wanting Lorenzo dead. There was a small part of Mina that had hoped that would be the case, though it had been quite the risk. Worst case scenario was a war starting over this, but something had told her that the Sultan wasn’t that delicate. It seemed no one would lose their head tonight.

As people began to disperse, Mina caught sight of the Alidasht Shehzade now approaching her and a small smirk found its way to her lips. She internally winced at the curtsy, but kept her mouth shut as to not potentially bruise another Alidasht ego. She dipped into a curtsy of her own as she went on to introduce herself. ”It is quite the pleasure to meet you, Munir. I am Lady Mina Blackwood, but perhaps you’ll call me Mistress tonight.” As she said the last bit she looked up at him playfully through her lashes. If he wanted to play a game then she would oblige.

He went on to offer up the contents of his flask and she accepted saying, ”Sounds delightful, however, let’s make a trade.” With that, she reached between her breasts to produce a small flask of her own. Within her own flask there wasn’t wine, but instead the best of Kolonivka’s vodka. If he liked a stinging bite then she would give him a stinging bite. She went on to place the flask in his hand and, as she let go, trailed her finger along the back of his hand. She took a sip of what he offered, licking her lip as she finished and then nodded in approval. ”Definitely much better than what they offer here.” She complimented.

”So, ignoring the fiasco that just occurred, how have you been enjoying our little area of the world?”

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Saiya Ansari

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Height

5’3

Weight

104 lbs

Eye Color

Light Brown

Hair Length/Texture

Straight, thick hair that falls to her hips

Hair Color

Dark chocolate brown

Skin Color

Light tan

Facial details(freckles, moles, etc)

Her nose is pierced

Distinguishing features

Saiya has faint scarring down her hands and arms, also along her back.

Clothing Preferences

Saiya often wears a lengha and choli combination in various different colors. She prefers to go around barefoot, as she’s quieter that way, but if she must she will wear sandals. She also sometimes wears a scarf draped over her hair.
Example
Example
Example

Likes:

❀ Singing
❀ Dancing
❀ Rain
❀ Daggers
❀ Tea
❀ Children
❀ Music

Dislikes:

❀ Feeling caged
❀ Her scars
❀ Arrogance
❀ Abusive people
❀ Violence

Sexuality:

Heterosexual

Hobbies:

❀ Singing
❀ Dancing
❀ Daydreaming

Life Goals/Dreams:

She longs for freedom, adventure, and to find happiness. True happiness.

Personality Summary:

Upon first meeting Saiya you can tell she was raised as a high born noble, speaking only when it’s appropriate and in an eloquent manner. She is quiet, but not for lack of confidence. She has learned that sometimes it’s best to keep your mouth shut and just listen to others speak as words can reveal a lot about a person. When she does speak, her voice is very soft and melodic with a calming quality to it. It makes it rather easy for others to trust her and makes it incredibly difficult to decipher when she’s lying. She is incredibly guarded and doesn’t trust other easily, knowing how easily trust and knowledge can be used against a person.

Underneath it all is a woman who longs for freedom and adventure. A woman who doesn’t want to worry about what she says or how she says it. Someone who isn’t bound by rules and etiquette, who doesn’t have to answer to anyone but herself. She wishes she could speak her mind and not have to worry if doing so could cause her to lose her head.

Current occupation:

Servant to the Kadir family

Any past occupations?:

Was a noble lady, then a servant to Sultana Esrin

Relatives:

Rajesh Ansari - Father - Deceased
Shanti Ansari - Mother- Deceased
Suresh Ansari - Eldest Brother - Alive
Raju Ansari - Second Eldest Brother - Alive
Ravi Ansari - Third Eldest Brother - Alive
Kamal Ansari - Younger Brother - Alive
Arjun Ansari - Second Youngest Brother - Alive
Mahesh Ansari - Youngest Brother - Alive

Skills:

❀ Cooking
❀ Dancing
❀ Singing
❀ Disappearing into the shadows
❀ Stealth
❀ Self defense, especially with a dagger

History Summary:

Born into the House Ansari, Saiya was raised as a noble within the city of Kisoma in the jungles of Alidasht. One of seven children and the only girl, Saiya was expected to be the perfect daughter. To her parents, specifically her father, that meant being seen and not heard, learning all the proper etiquette, she was always to look pristine, and just be an airheaded woman that her father believed all women to be. The only problem was she had three older brothers and eventually would have three younger brothers. Not understanding why she couldn’t do the same things her brothers did, she constantly tried to follow them around and join in their games. Her mother would often catch her outside covered in mud and dirt then would try to quickly clean her up before her father saw.

Saiya's father, she found out quickly, had quite the temper and didn't always lash out with only words. Oftentimes she found herself at the mercy of his fist. On many occasions she was left bruised and was locked up within the house until it healed. Once, he'd become so infuriated with her he threw a vase. She'd attempted to shield herself with her arms, only to have the vase shatter over them and leave quite a few scars on her arms where it sliced open her flesh.

Life was much easier when her father was away. It was only then that Saiya could really be herself. Her brothers adored her and often would train her to fight and use a weapon when their father wasn't around, ensuring that she would always know how to defend herself once she got out from under their father's thumb. She found a love of daggers with the khanjar being her favorite, but this was because daggers were used to defend oneself and that would be the only time she would show violence.

Her favorite time as a child was when they would all travel to Genasea for court meetings. Her mother was dear friends with Sultana Esrin as they grew up together in Kisoma. Because of this friendship, Saiya and her brothers were allowed to play with the Sultan’s children and Saiya was actually allowed to truly have fun.

When Saiya was 14 years of age everything changed. Her father was caught embezzling money and plotting to overthrow him. As punishment, he was stripped of his title and executed, his family was removed from their home, and before they knew it they had nothing. Disgraced, they struggled to find work and make any sort of living. Her mother fell ill and, with one last effort to protect her children, reached out to her dear friend, Sultana Esrin. She begged the woman to show mercy on her children and find them a place in this world. The kind hearted Esrin could not deny her dying friend this, so she took them in. Saiya’s brothers became guards while Saiya became a servant to Esrin herself. Treated far better than most servants, she became like another daughter to Esrin and for once Saiya actually felt like someone really cared for her.

When Esrin died it broke Saiya’s heart, feeling as if she lost another parent after losing her father and mother. The Sultan was kind, keeping Saiya on as a servant, but once again she was ignored and moved to the shadows. The only one who showed her attention was the Grand Vizier who saw a talent in her he could use. She soon became a favored servant of his, some even arguing she became more like an adopted daughter to him as he treated her much better than any other servant. At the end of the day, however, she was still just a servant.

Questionnaire

Did you grow up nurtured or neglected?
My father certainly neglected the opportunity to be nurturing. My mother tried, but she neglected to stop my father from his controlling and abusive behaviors. So you decide if I was nurtured or neglected.

When you were upset, where was your sanctuary?
A small, forgotten storage room hidden behind a tapestry in our home.

What were you like in your teenage years?
My teenage years were probably my happiest years, despite having lost almost everything. It was in my teenage years that the Sultana took me in and I finally experienced love.

How close are you to your parents?
I wouldn’t say I was close to them at all.

Do you have any trauma that haunts you?
Trauma haunts everyone, does it not?

What advice would you give your younger self?
Things are going to change and it may seem like it’s going to be worse, but have faith there will be some happiness. Cling to that happiness for dear life.

Were you an obedient child or defiant?
I was obedient for the most part, though I definitely had moments where I was defiant.

What is your biggest regret?
Not being able to do anything to save Sultana Esrin or even Kahrem.

---

Have you ever been in love?
In the sense you mean, no I have not been. Now Nahir is like a sister to me and I love her dearly.

What is most important in a partner to you? Describe your dream partner.
Someone who doesn’t wish to lock me in a cage and will accept me for who I am. Someone who isn’t controlling and realizes a relationship is a partnership where each person has equal say.

How do you display affection? What is your love language?
I do believe I show affection by physical touch. I enjoy hugs and the idea of cuddling sound delightful.

Have you had your first kiss? What was it like?
I do believe they say one should never kiss and tell?

Do you believe in love at first sight? Why or why not?
I believe it’s a lovely concept, though I have yet to discover if it’s true or not. I’m leaning towards it being a fantasy.

What does marriage mean to you?
I’m not too sure, I’m slightly afraid of marriage.

Are you currently crushing on anyone?
I don’t believe I’m crushing on anyone? (open for plotting)

Do you ever consider having children in the future?
Only with the right person. I do not wish for a child to experience what I did so I must be positive that won’t happen.

---

Describe your ideal Sunday morning:
I would very much enjoy a chance to sleep in and then maybe go down to the markets and just take in the sights and smells. Simple really, but I find it enjoyable.

What kind of person do you aspire to be?
I suppose I aspire to be someone Esrin would have been proud of…

What bad habits do you have?
I often stay up too late. I also have a tendency to…actually nevermind, it doesn’t really matter.

If you could go back in time and change anything in your past, what would it be?
I believe I would go back and change never speaking up about my father’s abuse.

What is your greatest fear?
I fear very little anymore so what I do fear I’d rather keep to myself, if that is alright?

What are your pet peeves?
It bothers me when someone invades my personal space.

When you are in a sour mood, do you like to be alone or with others?
I do prefer to be alone, I think, though I wouldn’t deny company if someone were to ask.

Are you more likely to fight with your fists or your tongue?
I prefer not to fight at all, but if I must then I’ll use my tongue before resorting to any form of physical violence.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Early Evening
Location: Caesonia Ballroom
Interactions: @Mole Prince Felix @baraquiel Princess Beatrice @Aerandir Verrick
Mentions: @Helo @princess Charlotte

---

When Felix agreed to help her out, Thea wanted to breathe a sigh of relief, however she found she couldn’t. For one, she wouldn’t be able to relax until she knew her brother was safe from the wrath of the Alidasht. Then there was the fact that she’d just promised that if the Prince aided her, she would behave herself. She found herself silently scolding herself for not having drank more before this. Perhaps she could sneak some alcohol later. She definitely would need something before bed otherwise the nightmares would come. She’d rather not sleep then deal with those, but that brought other issues. She would then have to deal with her own thoughts and those could be just as frightening. Panic gripped at her, but she pushed it aside as they now stood in front of the Alidasht party.

Felix bowed and Thea followed his lead, keeping her eyes on the floor. She did take a brief moment to glance at her brother. She wanted to yell at him, tell him he was an idiot, but of course she wouldn’t ever do that. There was enough yelling in their house as they grew up, she didn’t want to add to it by yelling at him.

Things finally seemed to simmer down as the Sultan passed his judgment and it seemed Leo was spared from any backlash. She did finally let out a small, shaky breath, but then sucked it in once more as the Sultan briefly addressed them. It seemed Felix sister had approached as well to introduce herself along with her bodyguard, Verrick. Thea found herself staring a moment too long at Verrick before dropping her eyes back to the floor. ”It is a pleasure to meet you Prince Felix, Lady Thea as well as you, Princess Beatrice. Your praise is greatly appreciated. Now I must finish my introductions with your parents and the King and Queen of Caesonia. Enjoy the festivities as well. Excuse me.” With that, he left them. He also took a moment to give Leo a brief nod before approaching the King and Queen.

Thea took another moment to take a breath before glancing over at Prince Felix. ”Thank you, truly I appreciate you doing this. I was…” She paused for a moment as she tried to find the right words. ”I’ve already lost my father, I don’t want to lose anyone else. I was so frightened, as these people seemed so fierce.” This may have been the most she’d ever really spoken to her betrothed, she really didn’t know what else to say to him. She silently longed to follow Charlotte over to the wine table and maybe even the food table, but she’d made a promise. She would remain next to Felix until he dismissed her as a good fiancé should.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Early Evening
Location: Caesonia Ballroom
Interactions: @Helo @samreaper @Conscripts @Mole
Mentions: @Helo

---

At John's words, Thea had made a pouty face. "Oh don't be such a stick in the mud. She wouldn't even have to know you got it from me. She's too entranced with her new wife to pay me any attention tonight." She said with a roll of her eyes before looking to Kazu, a smile spreading across her face as he took the booze. She liked this guy as he made her giggle with his imitation of the noblemen. She'd merely nodded at him as she couldn't quite contain her laugh right away to speak. When she finally did calm herself is when the Alidasht entered.

Thea had been feeling immensely foolish for her clap, but the sound of another clapping with her helped the feeling lessen. She found herself glancing around to find who clapped with her, only for her eyes to land on Prince Felix and she felt her cheeks flush. Had he done that just to keep her from being the only one? A loud voice made her jump and she looked back to the Alidasht party to see the smaller princess who seemed upset at her applause. She had to clench her jaw to keep from yelling something snarky back. She hadn't had enough alcohol to do something so daring just yet.

It was at this moment that Duke Lorenzo came in and everything went to hell in a handbasket. Her eyes widened as half the party fell to the ground and a hand flew to her mouth to stifle a gasp. She heard John's words as he departed, but she was too distracted by the scene. She slightly heard Kazu trying to contain laughter and she looked at him with wide eyes as she began shaking her head. If someone other than her heard him there was sure to be trouble for him.

Blood was being demanded now and Then began feeling mildly ill, praying no blood would be spilt right there. She shut her eyes and held her breath for a moment as a memory played in her mind. It was a memory of watching a person die when she was younger, but she quickly willed. Her eyes opened once more and she quickly downed half her bottle. It was then she noticed Charlotte in front of the Sultan and her breath caught once more. This was the first time she had seen her dear friend and her heart began to race at the dangerous situation she had just stepped into.

It wasn't until she spotted Leo, being ever gallant by stepping in trying to save Charlotte, that ice ran through Thea's veins. All color drained from her as the wine bottle slipped from her grip and shattered on the floor. It was the sound of the bottle shattering that pulled her back to reality and she soon realized she was standing there alone now. Where had Kazu gone? As if in answer, she heard his voice and her head whipped over to the man she'd just met who was now in the middle of the room. She spotted one of the Alidasht prince's distasteful glance towards her brother, then the Grand Vizier whispering to the Sultan, and immediately interpreted it as anger towards her brother. Tears stung her eyes as she feared the worst, then her eyes locked on her fiance. Before she realized it, she was moving towards him.

All proper etiquette was forgotten as she desperately grasped at Prince Felix' arm. "Please, I beg of you, keep them from turning their anger on my brother. I will do anything, I will be the good and proper little fiance everyone wants me to be. I will join you for every event you request me at, I will behave myself, just save him please." Her voice shook as a tear spilled down her face. "Please, I can't lose him too." Her voice broke as she lost her composure some and more tears began to fall. In truth, she didn't know if he even could do anything nor if he really needed to. Truth was she could be overreacting, but trauma had broken her. Deep down she was still the same old Thea, willing to do anything to protect her brother.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: River Port, Cheap Inn
Interactions: Annya @princess, Bowyn @Helo, Rue @Potter
Mentions:
Outfits:
Eris New Outfit
Raven New Outfit

---

Raven had quite a bit she wanted to say in response to Annya’s words about controlling their emotions. She wanted to explain how she’d figured out when their magic first manifested that it was connected to their emotions. To explain that her actions were to keep from losing control, to protect those around. She didn’t, however, have the desire to create any more conflict at the moment so she let it go. She continued to stare out across the ocean, just listening to the others speak.

Eris had internally smirked as Bowyn initially backed her up on asking what the plans were and listened closely as Annya responded. The plan seemed sensible enough, but then Bowyn spoke up once more, this time about the dark elves and how they were pure evil. He even spoke of genocide and it made Eris giggle internally. He was angry and it was clear he wasn’t fond of light elves, she was sure there was plenty of reason why. Light elves weren’t like by many, yet many preferred them over dark elves as dark elves were painted as pure evil.

Anny then also responded, a smart response that kept anger in check despite the clear offense thrown at her. She was correct, however, as the decision of this war did not lie in her hands. It was those that were above her that had the true say. She could only influence where she could. It was Rue’s words that caught her attention the most, however, as she pointed out things that Eris found many forgot about. ”You are very wise, young Rue. Many often forget that the Twins were there when the dark elves were banished, that their father was killed right in front of them under the guise of a peace treaty. It’s rumored that there was an attempt on their life as well, mere children at the time, yet they escaped. That is a pain that will traumatize anyone for a long time, if not their entire lives. They were thrown into a harsh land and no one else tried to help them, including the other races. They let them be banished and many just hoped they would die off and many did. And what of those that banished them? Some still live today so that can keep that pain fresh in their minds.” Eris explained with a sigh as she sat herself upright now. Serious conversations were so dull, but she was here and it was only proper to engage in the conversation.

”Now don’t mistake me for justifying the actions of the dark elves. Their cruelty is one that has gone beyond any others and there must be an end to it. It is wise, however, to remember that their cruelty was born from the cruelty shown to them when they were young over something they could not change. So who really is pure evil?” Eris finished as she glanced between everyone. It was Raven who spoke next, much to the surprise of Eris.

”There is no such thing as pure evil and pure good. One person may view another as pure evil as they only see immediate actions of them. Put yourself in the shoes of the ‘pure evil’ one, experience everything that they have, then decide if you would not be the same way. Evil and good is entirely subjective, what you think is pure evil may not be viewed as pure evil to another. So who truly has the right to determine who is evil and good? Everyone views themselves as the hero of their own story, but fails to realize they may be the villain of someone else's story.” Raven never once took her eyes off the water as she spoke.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Early Evening
Location: Caesonia Ballroom
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @13org Mayet @Rodiak Nahir @Omni5876 Amir @Potter Layla @FunnyGuy Lorenzo @princess Charlotte @samreaper Kazumin
Mentions: @Helo Leo @SilverPaw Wulfric @Infinite Cosmos Munir

Things in the ballroom took a swift turn and it was not one for the better, though perhaps in some people's minds it was. Mina had turned her attention away from the Alidashi prince, the beginnings of a fun game she hoped to enjoy later, only to see the earlier woman she'd been scanning the crowd for entering with her stepfather. Mina watched in alarm as the notoriously shamed Duke Vikena made quite an entrance. She glanced back to Charlotte and then to a woman beside her who watched in absolute horror and disgust as the man made a fool of himself. Mina's heart broke slightly for the man who was trying so desperately to be accepted, yet was failing with every attempt.

That's when disaster struck as an Alidashi guard attempted to stop the Duke and they stumbled, knocking into the men carrying the Alidashi Grand Vizier and Sultan. Things happened swiftly as both men and one of the shehzadis went crashing to the floor. Hafiz was up swiftly, demanding Lorenzo's head while others tried to diffuse the situation. Mina's attention turned back to Charlotte, concern gripping at her for the girl. The woman who had been beside her looked concerned as well as Charlotte seemed to almost collapse. Soon, though, she recovered and she was moving. The woman attempted to stop her, but to no avail as the young woman moved herself in front of the Alidashi royals.

Many excuses were being made by many people, even Lord Smithwood it seemed, but Mina knew this would not do. Another woman, dressed in Alidashi fashion to honor the royals, was now next to Mina and the look she gave the redheaded woman seemed to urge her to act. The little one with the tiger was now speaking, having drawn her weapon and had approached Duke Vikena, but Mina’s eyes were on the Sultan. There was irritation there now, but it wasn’t only towards the Duke as he looked to his children. It also seemed the Grand Vizier was trying to whisper something to him which wasn’t helping matters.On swift feet as silent as a wraith, Mina made her move to try and appease these fierce people. As she got closer, another she had never seen before offered to tell a tale. His words were well spoken and she quietly gave him applause.

---

”That is enough! Layla, you were not the only one humiliated! You do not get to decide to take this girl under your wing and reap the benefits of her servitude. Back to your place and remain silent until I have made my decision.” The Sultan sharply said to his eldest. He briefly glanced at Nahir, giving a nod of approval to her before speaking to his youngest daughter. ”Mayet! You step out of line! You fault this man for putting so much importance upon himself, yet you are doing the same by making demands without consulting your Sultan first. Hold your tongue, daughter, as I consider the punishments given as a mere apology is not enough.” He sternly reprimanded the young woman. His eyes then fell upon Amir as his son spoke respectfully to his father. Sultan Raif then caught sight of another as she silently entered the scene.

---

Mina glided up next to Amir, yet kept a respectful distance, as the eldest son finished speaking his words, crossed her arms appropriately, then dipped low to the ground, her skirts poofing out around her. "Peace be upon you, Enlightened One." She said, using a title rarely used anymore yet still showing the utmost respect. "His Royal Highness has beaten me to what I was urged forth to say on behalf of us Northern kingdoms, but I do hope I do not step too far out of line to back him up. Many here are well intentioned, but I fear a difference in culture is blinding many to the severity of the wrong done to you and your family tonight." She remained dipped low, even trying to keep herself lower than Amir out of respect, before glancing to the Sultan, seeing his attention was now fully on her.

"Duke Vikena is a grief stricken man after losing his beloved wife less than a year ago. On top of this, he desperately fights to be accepted in this court as many shame him for having earned his position rather than being born into it." Words tailored to appeal to the Sultan's own loss as well as the Alidashti custom of earning a position were also coated with venom towards those nobles in the room who looked down upon Lorenzo and would side with the Grand Vizier to spill his blood. Many of those same nobles would have hoped to gain the favor of the Alidashti royals, yet in a few simple words Mina would plunge a dagger into those hopes as the Sultan would now look down upon them for their views. Mina would make enemies tonight, this she knew, but she hoped she'd also gain allies.

"However, this, along with all other excuses made tonight for the Duke, does not justify the offense done upon you and your people. If punishment must be enacted then what greater punishment than accepting Lady Charlotte, the Heir of Viermont's offer?" She paused only briefly to make sure eyes were still on her. "For accepting this high lady as a servant is one of the greatest humiliations you could cause the Duke and his household. Besides, with both Alidasht and Varian staying here at the Caesonian castle for the season, an extra servant who knows these halls could be quite useful." Cruel words, but Mina knew it could keep Lorenzo alive for Charlotte. The girl didn't need to lose anyone else. She only hoped she could forgive Mina for the venomous behavior.

So many had spoken up, including this man who offered a story, and the Sultan was beginning to get a headache from it all. He would not be opposed to a story, but he felt now was not the time for such a thing. This mess needed to be dealt with and he now wished for it to be dealt with swiftly. Amir and this woman’s words had helped to temper him some and he looked between them briefly, eyes lingering on the woman. Her manner of speech reminded him so much of his Esrin, perhaps this helped soften him some as well. He noticed Hafiz next to him, glaring at his son and the woman, obviously not satisfied with their suggestions. Raif no longer cared, however, as his bruised ego would heal in time. ”It seems everyone has quite a lot to say on the matter.” He said with an exhausted sigh, then looked to Kazu to address him first. ”Now is not the time for your tale, however you have caught my interest and I may invite you to spin me a tale at a later date.” He then looked to Lorenzo, now wishing to hear from the man himself.

”What say you about this whole mess as you are the cause of all this drama?”