Tae

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: The Beach
Interactions: Sjan-dehk @Apex Sunburn, Layla @Potter
Aesthetic: Swimsuit

Layla's torrent of harsh words hit Kalliope like a storm, the venomous spew of insults and accusations striking her with stinging intensity. Throughout the onslaught, her expression remained remarkably composed, a mixture of bemusement and indifference playing across her features. While Layla's words were designed to wound, she had long since learned the value of holding her own against such vitriol. However, when Layla pinched her cheeks, Kalliope's patience wore thin. She let out a sharp, almost playful bite at Layla's hand, enough to let her know that she wasn't going to be an easy target for intimidation.

As Layla concluded her tirade, Kalliope let out a soft, almost amused chuckle, her heterochromatic gaze locking onto Layla's eyes with a calm confidence. Despite the storm of insults, her smirk remained firmly in place, but before she could respond to Layla's provocations, Sjan-dehk stepped in, his presence a buffer against the biting words. Kalliope's eyes flicked towards him, and despite the situation, a genuine smile tugged at her lips. He defended her, even in the face of Layla's barrage. It was a reassurance she hadn't fully expected, and her heart warmed a bit more towards the enigmatic sailor and she felt a flutter of butterflies within her stomach.

Listening to his measured and deliberate words, she kept her gaze fixed on Layla. There was no need for her to interject at the moment; Sjan-dehk's words were eloquent and addressed most of the points Layla had raised. And while she would have been more than capable of holding her own in a verbal spar, she appreciated his support.

"Well, it seems you're not entirely accurate in your assessment, Layla," Kalliope said with a composed tone. "Because if you've been paying attention, you might have noticed that the Captain here has been quite the gallant defender, standing up for me just as he did for Charlotte. Quite the contrast from your assumptions, isn't it?"

A flicker of mischief danced in her eyes as she continued, her tone playful yet carrying an undertone of challenge. "So, perhaps, just perhaps, some of your other judgments might be a tad bit off as well? After all, one wrong assumption does make one wonder about the rest of your conclusions." With that, she let Sjan-dehk lead her away. As they walked away from the scene, Kalliope glanced back at Layla one last time, her expression unreadable. She wanted to convey a message, a silent challenge, a reminder that beneath the venom, she was more than willing to face whatever came her way.

As his grip on her arm pulled her further away, Kalliope leaned in to him, her voice low and amused. "Thank you, Captain. I must say, you're quite the formidable defender of honor." Her tone was light, a mixture of genuine appreciation and playful teasing as she leaned in and kissed his cheek. "But really, I appreciate your intervention. It was… entertaining."

”To answer your question, yes and no. Some are just like that, thinking that they are better than everyone, but some are much better, even within the same family. Her sister, Nahir, was always much kinder from what I remember.” She said with a small sigh as she thought of the Kadir children. Then he was asking if she was alright and her expression faltered only a little before she began nodding.

”Yes, I’m quite alright. It takes more than a few hurtful words to get to me.” Liar. Her mind called her out and she knew she’d think of some of the things Layla had said that night while in bed, but what was new. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d slept without one nightmare plaguing her at least. No, she wouldn’t let it bother her and she wouldn’t allow Sjan-dehk to see just how truly broken she actually was. Not from Layla, but from life in general. She wouldn’t display that weakness.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: Royal Gardens Tea Party
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @FunnyGuy Alexander, @Helo Prince Callum
Mentions:

Mina couldn't help but be impressed by the swift turn of events. Alexander's announcement of his company's support for Callum's charity project was unexpected, yet it fit perfectly with the flair he had displayed throughout their conversation. She looked at him with a mixture of surprise and admiration, her eyes shining with genuine appreciation. It seemed that the game between them had taken on a new dimension, one that involved more than just playful banter.

"Mr. Deacon, that was quite the performance," she said, her voice laced with genuine praise. "You certainly know how to make a statement and capture everyone's attention." Her lips curled into a playful smile as she continued. "A beacon of light in a world growing darker, indeed. I can see why you've already made quite an impression here in Sorian."

She turned her attention back to Callum, her expression sincere. "Prince Callum, your charity project is indeed something to be admired," she said. "It's heartening to see someone with your influence and status genuinely care about the well-being of the people. I'm honored to offer my support, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on Sorian. If you wish, I could even speak with Princess Sadie and some of the other Varian nobles on your behalf to convince them to join the cause?"

As the conversation flowed, Mina's thoughts were a whirlwind of excitement and intrigue. The dynamics of the interaction between the three of them had shifted from flirtatious playfulness to a more substantial connection, centered around a shared purpose. It was a refreshing change, and Mina found herself genuinely looking forward to collaborating with these two intriguing men.

"Well, gentlemen, it seems we have quite the exciting endeavor ahead of us," she said with a smile. "I'm confident that with the Black Rose Trading Company's support and Prince Callum's vision, this charity event will be a resounding success." Her eyes sparkled as she looked at both Alexander and Callum. "And I must say, I'm rather excited to see what the silent auction will bring. Who knows what treasures might be uncovered?"

She let a playful wink slip as she glanced at Alexander, her flirtatious nature still present, but now combined with a genuine camaraderie. She slipped a flask out of a hidden pocket in her skirts, the promised brandy within, and held it out for Callum. ”Might I also make a suggestion? Perhaps along with the silent auction there can be an auction for a date night with some of the most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes of all the kingdoms? We would need volunteers, of course, so I’ll put my name in as one of the first.” She added, trying not to think of what had been proposed to her the night before.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: The Beach
Interactions: Charlotte @princess, Sjan-dehk @Apex Sunburn, Cassius @PapaOso, Layla @Potter, Ruby @SausagePat
Aesthetic: Swimsuit

Sjan-dehk's shifting demeanor didn't escape Kalliope's perceptive gaze. She sensed his unease, and although she wasn't entirely sure of its root cause, she understood that her words regarding Cassius might have triggered some discomfort. She'd be lying if she said she hadn't intended there to be some sting to her words, but seeing him now made her question why she said it. As he looked towards the horizon and then back at her with a reproachful gaze, Kalliope felt a pang of guilt. She hadn't really meant to stir up any negative feelings, especially not in someone she was finding herself drawn to.

In response to Sjan-dehk's reproachful expression, Kalliope quickly spoke, her tone sincere. "I didn't mean to tease her, or even you, for that matter," she explained softly, her eyes reflecting an apologetic sincerity. "It was all in good fun, just playful banter with Cassius. I didn't realize it would come across as anything else. I genuinely don't want to add to anyone's discomfort, especially Charlotte's."

As Sjan-dehk mentioned how it didn't feel right to see someone like Charlotte being treated poorly, Kalliope's heart warmed towards him, yet there was another flicker of jealousy there. She admired his empathy and his desire to protect and uplift those around him, but his attention to Charlotte oddly bothered her. His suggestion to go into the water to change the atmosphere offered a small glimmer of relief, a chance to escape the tension that had been building up on the shore. That glimmer of relief seemed to dissipate as repercussions from earlier seemed to find her.

In the midst of this unfolding spectacle, Kalliope had turned her attention to Layla, her eyes sparkling with something more than mere amusement. Layla's words, spiteful and arrogant, held no power over her, only a dark thrill that sent a shiver down her spine. As Layla's gaze turned toward her, Kalliope met her eyes with a confident, almost predatory smile, her own gaze carrying an intensity that could unnerve even the most composed.

"Oh, darling Layla," Kalliope purred, her voice laced with a dangerous edge. "It seems like you're a little jealous that I was able to get out while you haven't been so lucky. It's been quite a while, hasn't it? Do you truly believe I've been absent for as long as you assume, or perhaps dear Hafiz has simply been indulging in a little game of shadows and mirrors?"

Her smile deepened, a hint of madness glinting in her eyes as she continued, "And here you are, strutting around as if you're the queen of this little sandbox. All bark and no bite, aren't you? How charming it is to see you hiding behind your spiteful words and disdain. You play the role of a venomous viper so well, but let's be honest, darling, all that bite is just an attempt to cover up the trembling vulnerability of the scared, broken little girl hiding beneath that mask."

Kalliope took a step forward, her presence commanding attention as she locked eyes with Layla. "You see, darling, I've danced with monsters far scarier than you. I've swum through the darkest depths of humanity, and your little antics don't even cause a ripple in the sea of chaos I've navigated…the sea of chaos I've created. Your words? They're nothing but a symphony of insecurity and inadequacy, a feeble attempt to mask the emptiness you must feel inside."

She leaned in slightly, her tone dripping with condescension. "You want to know a secret? You may think you're impressive with your posturing, but you're nothing more than a pathetic disappointment. Your attempts to wield power and control are laughable at best, Layla. You can keep trying to assert dominance, but it's clear to anyone with half a brain that you're nothing but a petulant child throwing a tantrum." Her smile was positively wicked as she took yet another step forward. "But I'll do you a favor, my dear. If you're so eager to prove your worth, why don't we pay a visit to Hafiz? Let me regale him with tales of your accomplishments, your charisma, your... calculated charm. I'm sure he'd be simply thrilled to see just how effectively you've carried out his vision. How much of a perfect little puppet you've become for him."

Kalliope's gaze remained locked with Layla's, a storm of intensity swirling in her eyes. She'd heard a scream, but her focus was on Layla and she knew it wasn't unusual to hear screams at the beach. She was currently engaged in a far more entertaining game. This was a dance she was well-versed in, a dangerous game of words and power that she reveled in. She had faced worse adversaries, and Layla's bravado was nothing more than a fragile facade that could easily be shattered with the right words. And as the tension crackled in the air, she couldn't help but relish the taste of this dark dance. "By the way, how's your head?" It was a simple question, but there was something darker hiding behind them that she knew only Layla would pick up on.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: The Beach
Interactions: Charlotte @princess, Sjan-dehk @Apex Sunburn, Cassius @PapaOso, Olivia @Potter, Ruby @SausagePat
Aesthetic: Swimsuit

As the beach scene unfolded before her, Kalliope couldn't help but find herself drawn into the dynamics of the group. Her eyes, though, immediately fixed on Sjan-dehk, that enigmatic and captivating presence that had been lingering in her mind. A small, involuntary smile tugged at the corner of her lips, her heart fluttering in response to his presence. Her eyes briefly turned back to Cassius as she watched him move to the woman who’d had a smoothie dumped on her and things slowly began clicking in her mind. The woman had addressed them, she knew who Lord Cassius was and she even knew her name. With how Cassius was looking at the woman, Kalliope realized this must be Lady Charlotte Vikena.

With a sly smile and a playful glint in her eyes, she looked towards Cassius, who had wandered off to assist Charlotte. "Oh, Cassius, dear," she called out loudly enough for him to hear. "So this is the girl whose name you said last night instead of mine? She’s even more beautiful than you made her out to be at dinner!" Her teasing tone was undeniable, a mischievous sparkle dancing in her gaze as she watched his reaction. It was all in good fun, of course, a way to remind him of their casual escapades.

Her attention then turned to Sjan-dehk, his presence drawing her in like a magnetic force. As he tipped his hat and greeted her, Kalliope felt her heart race a little faster, though she wasn't fully aware of the reason why. She listened to his words, a bemused smile gracing her lips at his honesty. "Good morning, my dashing Captain," she replied, her voice holding a genuine warmth as she swapped languages. "My words were meant to be cutting, that’s for sure. Layla and I have a small bit of history, though I am surprised I’ve had no repercussions from them yet." She met his earthy gaze with her vibrant one as she smirked playfully, a connection forming that she hadn't quite expected.

In that moment, the beach was a canvas of interactions, each thread weaving its own story, and Kalliope found herself becoming entwined in the tapestry of the day. He made mention of her appearance and a mischievous look twinkled in her eyes. ”Oh I certainly was hoping you’d think so. I did hope to turn some heads.” She playfully twirled to let him get a full view of her, however as she came back to face him she realized his gaze was upon Charlotte and something stirred within her. Her eyes narrowed some as she glanced at the woman then back at Sjan-dehk.

With a slight edge to her tone, she addressed Sjan-dehk's question about Cassius. "Oh, that's just Cassius Vael," she said nonchalantly, though her words carried a hint of bitterness she couldn't quite hide. "Just a charming and roguish nobleman I met last night, known for his ways with the ladies." She didn't realize the underlying jealousy that had crept into her voice. It was odd, unfamiliar, and honestly a bit unsettling.

As she watched the scene unfold, Kalliope was torn between her amusement at Cassius' predicament and the strange discomfort she felt in the pit of her stomach upon seeing Sjan-dehk’s interest in Charlotte. She decided to turn her attention back to Sjan-dehk, her playful smile returning as she pushed aside her unfamiliar emotions. "So, my dearest Captain," she said, choosing to embrace the lightness of their banter, "how do you know Lady Charlotte? Seems you’re quite interested in her."

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: Royal Gardens Tea Party
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @FunnyGuy Alexander, @Helo Prince Callum
Mentions:

Mina's eyes sparkled with amusement as she watched Alexander's interaction with Prince Callum. The dynamics between the two men were intriguing, and she couldn't help but appreciate the subtle power play that was unfolding. She maintained her alluring smile, her demeanor still playful and flirtatious as she responded to Callum's comment about his partying days being over.

"Oh, Prince Callum, sworn off the booze, have you?" she said, her voice tinged with mock surprise. "What a shame, just when I was considering offering you some of Kolonivka's special brandy. It's been known to have quite the... revitalizing effect." She couldn't resist a playful wink before she reached out, taking the flask from him. Without hesitation, she took a swig, her lips curling into a mischievous grin as she felt the warm burn of the alcohol.

She turned her attention back to Alexander, her eyes dancing with amusement. "You must forgive us, Mr. Deacon," she said, her voice still suggestive. "Prince Callum and I have a bit of a shared history involving spirited discussions and spirited spirits." It wasn’t the whole truth as they really hadn’t spent much time around each other. If they did, it was at one of the secret afterparties during the courting season and they often were both rather drunk or with others. Still, she knew enough about Callum just from gossip and observation and she’d decided she quite liked him. She offered the flask to Alexander, her fingers brushing against his as she did so. She held the plate of cake in the other hand, not quite touching it yet.

As Callum turned the conversation towards his charity project, Mina's demeanor shifted slightly. Her flirtatious playfulness gave way to a more genuine interest in the cause. "Supporting a charitable project, Prince Callum? That's certainly a noble endeavor," she said, her voice sincere. "And you're right, the Blackwoods have always believed in the well-being of our people. What would a ruler be without their people, afterall? I would be honored to offer my support." She glanced at Alexander with a knowing smile. "What do you say, Mr. Deacon? Shall we help make Sorian a better place for everyone?"

Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of excitement and mischief as she waited to see how Alexander would respond. The game was on, and Mina was fully committed to playing her part.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: River Port
Interactions: Zion @Helo, Enstille @GingerBobOh, Jun @JJ Doe
Mentions: Malachi @princess
Equipment:

Kenia chuckled at Zion's enthusiastic response to the idea of trying the cheesy tuna sandwich. His excitement was contagious, and she found herself genuinely looking forward to the prospect of sharing a meal at Seafood Sensations. "That sounds like a fantastic idea! I mean as long as your other two companions are okay with that."

As Zion's excitement bubbled over, she couldn't help but be charmed by his energy. His ability to perceive her stealthiness was certainly impressive, and she nodded with a warm smile. "You have a keen observation, Zion. Stealth has indeed been a skill I've honed over time. There's a certain thrill in moving unnoticed and mastering the art of surprise."

Just as the conversation flowed smoothly, Jun's entrance brought a shift in the atmosphere. Kenia turned her attention to the human, noting his flushed cheeks and slightly disheveled appearance. His mention of Malachi running off into the woods caught her by surprise, and she exchanged a quick glance with Zion as the lion questioned Jun about the situation. In the back of her mind, Kenia had a brief thought of how lucky this could be for her. That fool, well perhaps he'll get himself killed and it'll be easier to get welcomed into this group. Though helping save him could also be an in…decisions, decisions. She had to admit, it would be easier to just let him get eaten, but she'd also just admitted to being an adventurer and it might look suspicious if she didn't offer to help.

She leaned forward slightly, her curiosity getting the best of her. "Is it normal for Malachi to do this? There are many dangers in the forest, perhaps we should go make sure he's okay? I'd be happy to offer my assistance in any way I can." Kenia suggested as she looked to Zion and Enstille.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: Royal Gardens Tea Party
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @FunnyGuy Alexander, @Helo Prince Callum
Mentions:

Mina's heart skipped a beat as Alexander's thumb stroked her hand. His touch sent a thrill through her, and she had to remind herself to maintain her composure. She met his gaze with an enigmatic smile, her eyes dancing with playful curiosity. "Well, Mr. Deacon, I must say you have quite the way with words," she purred, her tone suggestive. "It seems you're adept at turning any topic into something... thrilling."

His response about moving to Sorian and his reason for attending the party didn't go unnoticed by Mina. She raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a knowing smile. "Ah, new to Sorian and already indulging in its pleasures? Quite daring, if you ask me," she said, her voice still soft. "And as for acquaintances, well, you certainly know how to make a lasting impression."

As Alexander kissed her hand, Mina's heart raced even faster. She maintained her alluring smile, though her mind was racing. A married man, and yet he was flirting with her so openly. It was a dangerous game, one that she found herself strangely enticed by. ”As for what brings me, that would be my uncle, Count Sebastian Blackwood. It’s not often he manages to make it to events as he can be rather sickly. It seems like he’s having a good day today, however.” She explained as she gestured to her uncle at the table of women, flirting with them just as she and Alexander were flirting.

Before she could respond further, Prince Callum's arrival broke their bubble of intimacy. Mina turned her attention to him, offering a polite curtsy. "Good morning, Your Highness," she greeted, her tone respectful. "Thank you for the cake, it looks absolutely delightful." She gestured to Alexander. "May I introduce Mr. Alexander Deacon? He's new to Sorian and seems to be enjoying the pleasures of this grand tea party."

She turned back to Alexander with a playful glint in her eye. "And Mr. Deacon, this is Prince Callum Danrose, quite the character of the kingdom, I must say. He can put on quite the party, often my favorite ones to attend while I’m in Sorian." Her tone was light, her demeanor flirtatious as she enjoyed the little dance of words and introductions.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Port Vanarosa, Alleyway
Interactions: Arlen @SilverPaw, Tanithil @Lava Alckon, Ismael @Th3King0fChaos, Thugs
Mentions:
Equipment:

Amisra’s triumphant moment was cut short when she felt the orc's massive hands clamp down on her thighs. His grip was like a vise, and the pain shot through her body like a lightning bolt. Her eyes widened in shock as the pressure increased, threatening to crush her bones, and she let out a cry of pain. The world spun around her as the orc's strength proved overpowering.

But then, just as she felt her legs were on the brink of breaking, a surge of shadow energy enveloped her. The shield created by Tanithil's magic formed a protective barrier around her femurs, preventing them from shattering under the immense pressure. While the pain was still intense, it was dulled by the shield, and she managed to avoid the worst of the damage. She could hear her friend speaking, but couldn’t make out the words as she was now focused on the orc and the need to get him to release her. Her hands quickly went to either side of the man’s face as he began to fling her. Her thumbs dug into his eye sockets just before she felt herself go flying.

With a tremendous heave, the orc flung Amisra towards the wall. The impact sent shockwaves of pain through her body, and her vision blurred for a moment as her back and head hit the hard surface. She’d felt the shadow shield scramble to focus its energy on protecting the rest of her body once again and she was thankful for it, but she still hit harder than she’d expected. Stars danced before her eyes, and her head throbbed with the force of the impact. ”Kill the bastard, Tan…” She managed to mumble out as she fought to keep her eyes open as the world spun. Despite her efforts to remain conscious, darkness encroached on the edges of her vision, and her world faded into unconsciousness.

TLDR

Amisra cries out in pain, but the shadow shield Tanithil put on her moves to focus its energy on keeping her bones from breaking. She uses the split moment of focus to gouge the orcs eyes out before being flung into the wall. The shield scrambles to protect her, but she still hits her head pretty hard. She tells Tan to kill the man before falling unconscious.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: Royal Gardens Tea Party
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @FunnyGuy Alexander
Mentions:

Mina couldn't help but be amused by Alexander's smooth words and confident demeanor. She was drawn to his charm and wit, and she couldn't deny the flutter of excitement he stirred in her. However, in the back of her mind, she couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for being a bit flirtatious with him after the intimate night she had just spent with Munir. She pushed past it, however, as she knew she needed to do this until she found another way.

"Ah, so the pesky cherry is to blame, is it?" she replied, feigning innocence, but there was a mischievous glint in her eye. "I suppose I'll let it off with a warning this time, but only because you seem to be quite charming. Blissfully memorable? That’s certainly one I haven’t heard before."

She leaned in slightly, her voice lowering to a sultry tone. "As for fate, well, I'm not one to believe in destiny and all that romantic nonsense," she said, teasingly brushing her fingers against his arm. "But I have to admit, I'm usually the one in control of my destiny. Though I must say, fate seems to have thrown us together in a rather intriguing manner."

Mina tilted her head slightly, her gaze locked with his. "So, Mr. Deacon, tell me more about yourself. I'd love to know what lies beyond that charming smile and those mesmerizing eyes." She leaned in a little closer, her voice barely above a whisper. "I have a feeling there's more to you than meets the eye."

She winked playfully at him, her lips curling into a mischievous grin. Mina was enjoying the banter, reveling in the thrill of the unknown, and she had no intention of backing down from this intriguing encounter. "What brings you to this grand garden tea party, aside from stepping on pesky cherries, of course?"

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Time: Late Morning
Location: Royal Gardens Tea Party
Attire: Outfit
Interaction: @mantou Wystan @Tpartywithzombi Violet, @FunnyGuy Alexander
Mentions: @Potter Sadie

Mina's eyes flickered with amusement as she prepared to retort to Wulfric's no-nonsense response. His quip towards her lack of responsibility simply had her smirking as it only proved he was blissfully unaware of the truth of her escapades. However, before she could reply, her attention was quickly stolen by the grand entrance of King Edin. The spectacle before her was both impressive and ostentatious, and she couldn't help but be captivated by the charisma, or lack thereof, of the monarch. As the king made his way to his throne, Mina found herself drawn into his performance, though she couldn't help but notice the forced smiles of some of his servants. It seemed Prince Callum was also determined to cause chaos of his own and she couldn’t keep a small giggle from escaping her lips.

As the commotion settled, Mina decided it was time to leave Wulfric's company, bidding both him and Violet farewell as they headed towards a table, and explored the party further. Her uncle had gone and found a place in the shade at a table with some noble women, all of whom seemed to be entranced by the rather handsome count. She was curious to meet some of the other guests, especially Sadie whom she’d yet had the chance to spend time with since they all got to Caesonia. As she made her way through the crowd, she suddenly bumped into a man who seemed rather dazed from stepping on a cherry.

”Oh, I’m so sorry!” Mina gasped at the accidental collision, being thrown off balance and almost losing her footing, yet she caught herself just in time. Her eyes widened slightly as she looked up at the man in front of her. There was something strangely familiar about him, something that tugged at her heartstrings in a way she couldn't explain. His dreamy gaze captivated her, and she found herself momentarily lost for words.

"Alexander Deacon," she repeated softly, a small smile playing on her lips. "Mina Blackwood, future Countess of Kolonivka. The pleasure is mine, Mr. Deacon. I do apologize for being quite clumsy this morning." She extended her hand, her heart still fluttering with an inexplicable sense of familiarity. "You seem oddly familiar to me. Have we met before?" She knew she was usually incredibly good at remembering names and she was almost positive she hadn’t heard his before, yet there was always a chance a name could slip her mind.