Tae

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Morning of Sola 22, The Blackwoods Sitting Room

Roman & Mina

Time: Sola 22, Morning
Location: The Blackwoods Sitting Room

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The sun's warm rays filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a gentle glow across the sitting area of Mina's quarters. Soft cushions adorned the plush couch, inviting relaxation and comfort. Mina reclined on the cushions, her petite frame sinking into their embrace. Her eyes closed as she listened to the soothing melodies of birdsong outside, letting the tranquility of the morning wash over her.

The events of yesterday still lingered in her mind. Fainting during the execution had been unexpected, but Mina attributed it to a momentary lapse in her usually composed demeanor. Her uncle, ever the doting guardian, had insisted she rest in their quarters, demanding she regain her strength and vitality after running into him in the halls as she’d left with Munir. He was always overly concerned for her well-being, worrying about her more than she believed necessary. She’d tried to argue that she was fine, but he was having none of it and even gave the Alidasht prince a disapproving glance. Now she’d been confined to their quarters since yesterday.

As if on cue, the door creaked open, and two servants entered the room, each carrying a tray adorned with delicate teacups and a plate of freshly baked scones. They placed the trays on a small coffee table in front of Mina before bowing and silently retreating.

Mina's eyes fluttered open, her attention drawn to the enticing aroma wafting from the cups of tea. She took a moment to savor the fragrant steam rising from the cups before delicately picking one up. The porcelain felt cool against her fingertips as she brought the cup to her lips, taking a small sip of the warm, comforting liquid.

Just as she set the cup down, her gaze turned to the plate of scones. They were golden-brown, still warm from the oven, and adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar. The sight of the delectable treats brought a flicker of a smile to her lips. She picked up a scone, breaking off a small piece and savoring its buttery sweetness.

A momentary pause filled the room as Mina's thoughts drifted to her uncle's concern. She couldn't help but find it unnecessary. Fainting was not uncommon, especially in the midst of an execution by fire. Her own strength had always surprised her, and she knew she could handle more than others anticipated.

As she indulged in another sip of tea, she pondered on how to persuade her uncle to let her stay in Caesonia instead of returning to Kolonivka. She knew she had to be convincing, to make him understand that she was perfectly capable of taking care of herself.

Roman had woken up late, the actions of the night before proved to have taken more energy out of him then he had liked. Sleeping almost through the entire morning was not exactly something he wanted to do. At least the others had good news as he went about getting his attire in order after quickly washing himself off. The shaman Maja, an older woman intrusted with the health and wellness of the others while also keeping up with the wishes and celebrations of the gods. Maja was akin to the mother of their group.

She had found a place to the western most portion of lovers lake that would make due for their summer solstice ritual. She was actually there right now with a few others making the necessary arrangements. The other guards did not report any unusual circumstances in the area and Erik had acquired the updated list of varian nobles that were still in the city for the summer.

These were all things that made him breathe a little easier but he still wanted to check in on the blackwoods before the afternoon blacksmith lesson. Mina had fainted the other day and her father was never one for bright sunny days. He could only hope that they would be interested in his offer as well to help him with the ritual, those two were the closest thing to blood related family that he had here.

It wasn't long before he found himself at their place of residence for the summer. He knew where all of them would be staying after all if some kind of emergency came up. Taking a moment to make sure that he looked presentable enough the large man knocked on the door to their portion of the guest spaces. He was well aware that they wouldn't mind him just walking in but he still found it respectable to knock first.

Mina's maid paused her task at the sound of the knock, but before she could make her way to the door, Mina interjected with a warm smile. "I'll get it, thank you," she said to the maid, who nodded and resumed her work.

Making her way to the door, Mina found herself wondering who it could be. Moments later, she pulled the door open to reveal Roman standing there, looking as handsome as ever. Her eyes lit up with joy at the sight of her friend and her heart skipped a beat upon seeing her secret childhood crush. "Roman! What a wonderful surprise!" she exclaimed, unable to contain her excitement. "Come in, come in! You’re just in time for some tea if you’d like to join?"

She stepped aside, inviting him into the sitting area where they could relax and catch up. The sun streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over the room. "Please, have a seat," she said, gesturing to one of the chairs. "How have you been? Did I hear whispers that there is going to be a summer solstice ritual here this year?" She couldn't help but ask him excitedly.
He was quite surprised to look down and see his old childhood friend at the door, expecting a maid to answer instead she caught him off guard for a moment. “Err um yes I would love some tea.” he didn't hesitate to step inside and follow her over to the small table. For a moment he felt a little awkward as her sudden appearance derailed his train of thought. “Uhh yes i uh i am well and i did, that was one of the reasons i came by today.”

answering her question about the ritual, his smile quickly returning. “The main reason I came by was to see how you were doing? I heard you fainted at the execution the other day.” his smile dropped slightly as he mentioned the event did give him some worry for her health, it wasn't normal.

He smiled as the maid poured him some tea, “Thank you.” taking a sip of the pleasant warm liquid and setting the small cup down again, “the second reason was to tell you that I will be taking my fathers role for leading the ritual this year…” he trailed off for a moment and rubbed the back of his head.

Mina always made him flustered when she stared at him like that, “well I uh, I wanted to ask you to be my Echo this year. I know, I know, its a position normally held for the leaders wife or betrothed but i don't have either of those right now and i really do believe that you would be a great fit for the roll…” he couldn't keep eye contact with her and instead inspected the cup of tea again, he didn't know why but it felt to him like he was back in his younger days asking her for a dance. Mina always had the ability to steal his confidence but he wasn't sure why, he wasn't sure why he always showed her this side of him in private.

Mina couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement mixed with nostalgia. Though the feelings from her childhood had somewhat evolved over the years, there was still a lingering fondness for him. She tried to maintain her composure, not wanting to show her slight fluster at his presence.

Her heart sank a little as he mentioned her fainting at the execution. She didn't want him to worry about her as well, but she appreciated his concern. "Oh, it was nothing serious," she said with a reassuring smile. "Just a momentary lapse, though Uncle Sebastian would like to believe otherwise. I'm perfectly fine now."

As he informed her about taking his father's role for leading the ritual, her eyes widened in surprise. She knew how important the role was, and it was an honor to be chosen for such a responsibility. "Oh, Roman, that's wonderful news!" she exclaimed, genuine excitement in her voice as she gently placed a hand on his arm. "Congratulations, I know you'll do an amazing job."

But as he stammered and stumbled over his words, asking her to be his Echo, Mina couldn't help but feel her heart skip a beat. She had always admired Roman, and being asked to hold such an important position for him made her feel special. "I'd be more than honored to be your Echo," she said with a warm smile, her eyes locking with his for a moment before she looked down to hide her slight blush and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear.

She knew they had always had a special connection, and it seemed that even after all these years, that connection was still there. Roman had a way of making her feel both excited and shy at the same time. She certainly acted differently around him then she did most other men. Her confident, flirtatious manner almost seemed to fly out the window…almost.

But for now, she pushed those thoughts aside and focused on the present. She was happy for him and honored to be a part of such an important event in his life. It was a chance for them to spend more time together, and Mina looked forward to supporting him every step of the way.

He gave her a quiet sigh at her dismissal of her health concerns with a look that said he did not truly believe her. Yet he did not press the issue further, believing that she would tell him more information about it when she was ready. The mention of her uncle reminded him of another thing he wanted to bring up to her about the man as well. He held his tongue in anticipation of her reaction to his proposition.

The reaction was everything he hoped and gave her a toothy grin, the fireflies in his gut slowly subsiding with her answer. He sat the cup of tea down and reached for her hand cupping it gently in his calloused hand. “Thank you, you have a beautiful singing voice. I can't wait to hear it again. You shouldn't need to prepare as I chose four of some of our more common songs. I uh, i was also hoping that you could talk to Sebastion about joining as well.” he let her hand slip from his regaining his composure and leaning back into his chair in a more comfortable fashion.

“I know he has played music with my father in the past and it would bring me great pride if he would play with us.” he fondly remembered seeing the man play an instrument or two when his father led some of the rituals back home. “So the plan right now is Maja found a spot on the western edge of Lovers lake and some of us are out there now setting up the bonfires, setting the stone patterns, and cooking pits. We plan to begin tomorrow night and you should get your official invitation tomorrow. I plan on running the ritual with the four seasons in mind, similar to how my father has run them in the past. Speech first explaining the rules for those present, call to the gods and ancestors then begin to sing while the others give offerings and dance. Four smaller fires around one large one…” he paused for a moment as he realized he was rambling and dumping information to her again.

It was a nervous tick that he had around her and he felt like it had ruined some moments between them in the past. The fireflies began to make their way back out into his gut as he thought about those memories. When they would wander the forest as kids and he would tell her stories or talk to her about his craft for hours until they were called away. He really did like his friend but he could never really tell just how much she cared about him or if the voice in his head was right and she really didn't like him and was just being nice or polite.

Mina found herself swept up in Roman's excitement and passion as he talked about the upcoming ritual. She listened attentively, her eyes shining with genuine interest. His words painted a vivid picture in her mind, and she could almost feel the warmth of the bonfires, hear the songs, and sense the reverence of the moment. She was truly honored that he had chosen her to be a part of this significant event in his life.

When he mentioned her talking to Sebastian about joining the ritual, Mina's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Sebastian playing music? Now that's an idea," she said with a chuckle. "But I'll do my best to convince him. I'm sure he'll be intrigued by the idea, especially if he remembers the times he played with your father." Besides, it would be a good way for her to start the conversation again to convince him to let her stay. In fact, all of this would be a good way to convince him.

As Roman rambled on, Mina couldn't help but smile fondly. His nervousness and enthusiasm were endearing, reminding her of the times they had spent together as children. "You know, Roman, you don't have to worry about overwhelming me with information," she said with a teasing smile. "Besides, I could kiss you for helping provide me with more ammunition to use against my uncle since he wants to send me back to Kolonivka even though I don’t want to go home." Mina's eyes widened in slight panic as her words spilled out without her usual filter. She bit her lip, her cheeks burning with embarrassment. "I-I mean, not that I want to kiss you, I mean, you're my friend and I didn't mean to imply anything, I just...uh, forget I said anything," she stammered, her attempt to backtrack only making her embarrassment more apparent. She wished the floor would open up and swallow her whole.

She let out a nervous laugh, attempting to lighten the mood. "You see, I have this habit of saying things without thinking when I’m around you, and well, sometimes I just can't help myself," she rambled, waving her hand dismissively. "But, yes, I'll definitely talk to Sebastian about joining the ritual and see what he thinks. It's a great idea, really, and I'm sure he'll be thrilled... not about the kissing part, obviously, but about the music."

Mina mentally cringed at her own awkwardness. She had managed to make things even more uncomfortable, all while desperately trying to smooth over her slip of the tongue. "Anyway, yes, the ritual sounds fantastic and I'm really looking forward to it. And I promise, I won't mention kissing again unless you wanted a kiss, I mean, not that I'm suggesting anything, I just, oh gods," she groaned, covering her face with her hands for a moment before peeking out with a sheepish smile. "I should really just stop talking now."

Roman’s heart beat only quickened as Mina kept talking. She was stammering out sentences while his face kept blushing through shades of red one would find in a forge. He wasn't sure what he should do and his fight or flight response was growing in his chest with every word. The way she could put his body into the same feeling as going into battle amazed him. So he did the only thing he thought would be appropriate to soothe both of their minds for the moment.

Slowly he turned in his chair and held her hands gently. Now that he had got this far he wasn't sure how to proceed resulting in him hesitating as he looked at what was likely one of his oldest and dearest friends. The urge to kiss her and bed her was strong but he didn't want to ruin the friendship that he coveted. A friendship that he adored almost more than his hammer.

He found himself staring at her hands in his, staying stoic for a moment longer before speaking up. More of a whisper than anything, words just for them, as he looked her in the eye’s “the light of the moon failed in comparison to the light of her soul.” he leaned forward to tell her this and in doing so the crystal necklace dropped from under his shirt.

He took a moment longer to speak again, his face still red as he controlled his breathing and heart rate. “Please don't, I've always enjoyed your company, your jokes, your smile. I um i would like a k-kiss but not right now… how about after the ritual? After our songs.” his smile softened for a moment. His hesitation once again prevalent until he remembered what she had said, “wait, Sebastian wants you to go back already?”

His eyebrows furrowed in concern as he tried to think of how he could help with the situation, “i uh i could take responsibility for your safety… if it helps i did bring two extra ships worth of people and supplies just for the summer. I probably have more men and guards here than some of the royalty.”

As Roman reached out to hold her hands, a calming warmth seemed to envelop Mina. His touch was reassuring, and she looked into his eyes, finding a familiar sense of comfort there. His whispered words, like a soft breeze on a summer night, had a soothing effect on her. The comparison to the moon's light and the light of her soul was both poetic and endearing. She felt her heart skip a beat as she absorbed his words, her embarrassment momentarily forgotten. And then came his request, delivered with a mix of hesitation and vulnerability. Mina's cheeks flushed once again, but this time it wasn't from embarrassment; it was from a different kind of excitement.

Then her eyes landed on the necklace and she couldn’t help but stare for a moment. There was a strange aura coming off of it, something she hadn’t experienced before, and the whispers of the spirits seemed to surge for a moment. Since she fainted they hadn’t disappeared completely, but they’d become bearable at least. Now, though, they were momentarily distracting, yet she continued to try to ignore them as she went back to focusing on Roman’s words.

"After the ritual... our songs... Yes, that sounds lovely," she replied, her voice soft, her heart fluttering in her chest. The thought of sharing a kiss with Roman, especially after such a meaningful and beautiful event, sent a shiver down her spine. She couldn't deny that she felt a strong connection with him, something beyond their childhood friendship.

As he mentioned her uncle's desire for her to return to Kolonivka, Mina's expression turned a bit more somber and it seemed to bring her back to reality. She sighed softly and nodded, her fingers still entwined with Roman's. "Yes, unfortunately my uncle insists that I go back. He believes it's for my own good, but... I don't want to go back just yet," she admitted, her gaze dropping to their intertwined hands. "Your offer of protection means a lot to me, Roman. I'll have to speak to him about it and see if he's willing to consider it. Maybe it will help change his mind, at least for now."

She glanced up at him with a small smile, the vulnerability she felt mirrored in her eyes. "Thank you for being so understanding and for always being there for me, Roman. You truly are a dear friend, and I'm grateful to have you in my life." The soft whispers in the background seemed to grow stronger for a moment again, but Mina pushed them to the back of her mind, focusing on the present moment with Roman.

He smiled at her softly memories of times long past sifted through his mind and he found himself stuck on one memory of the two of them stargazing. The warm summer night air and the smell of the forest drifted back to him for a moment. Mina was and continues to be a close friend who he always wished he could confess his secrets to. His thoughts shifted and he felt a pull from his necklace that reminded him of all the things he has done. All the reasons why he will never be worthy of her heart.

The pull grew stronger for a moment, the smell of fresh blood and something burning growing in his senses. Men and women screaming in his mind, children crying. For a moment he was back in that town, back in that battle. A moment to her seemed like hours to him reliving the killing and bloodshed that he brought down on those poor people. In a place that does not exist on any maps anymore, with people that were erased from the records.

He did snap out of the thought, pushing the influence from his necklace back down and quickly hiding the crystal back into his shirt. He stood quickly and gave her a smile, “I apologize I forgot I had another meeting that I have to take care of. Thank you for accepting my invitation, you and Sebastian should be receiving your official invitations sometime soon. I truly do hope you are able to stay for the summer.” he opened his arms offering her a hug before he left, his heart still racing.

Mina's attention was briefly drawn to the strange aura emanating from his necklace. It seemed to pulse with an otherworldly energy, and the whispers of the spirits around her grew louder and more insistent. They were demanding her attention, their voices a cacophony of accusations.

"Murderer." "Killer." "Blood on his hands."

Her breath caught in her throat and she could feel her heart pounding in her chest. At first she thought they were talking about herself, but then she realized they said his hands. She looked at the spirits and realized they were staring at Roman. The once-familiar presence of the spirits had taken on a sinister and accusatory tone, and it sent shivers down her spine. She had never experienced anything like this before.

She tried to focus on Roman's words, his offer of an invitation, but the voices in her head drowned out his words. Panic welled up within her, and she struggled to maintain her composure. She felt her head spin once more and she feared she was going to faint once more, but she shoved the feeling away as best she could as she tried to give Roman a smile. She was hesitant at first, but she moved and gave him a hug. She felt so small in his arms and for a moment, that panic she’d initially felt faded and she wondered what the spirits actually meant. How could Roman be any of those things? ”Thank you, Roman. I’ll see you at the Solstice then.” She finally managed to say to him before letting go. ”Now I think I should maybe go lay back down for a bit. I’m still a bit tired, it seems. Thank you for coming by.” She gave him a soft smile before turning and heading towards her room.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

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

Mina couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement as Alexander agreed to her suggestion about the date auction. His teasing response and the touch of his hand on her shoulder sent a warm sensation through her. She chuckled at his imitating wink and felt curiosity flow through her as he said he didn’t find comfort in her being an option for the date night. It was Callum who suggested it be a bachelor auction and this just added to the fun of the situation. "A bachelor auction, you say? Now that sounds intriguing and then you wouldn’t have to worry about me being considered an option at all," she replied, her eyes twinkling mischievously as she looked between the men, her gaze finally landing on Alexander. "And I'm more than happy to help host with you. It sounds like it could be quite an event and a delightful new experience."

Callum then excused himself and Mina bid him farewell, briefly watching him leave, but then Mina's attention was momentarily diverted. She had spotted Munir entering the tea party, and it took her by surprise. Her heart raced, and her thoughts became jumbled as she tried to process his unexpected presence. Memories of their last encounter, his offer of marriage, and the intense emotions she had felt came flooding back.

She stumbled over her words, her sentences becoming disjointed. "Um, Alexander, I, uh, sorry, I just... I saw someone, and, uh, never mind," she mumbled, clearly shaken by the unexpected sight of Munir.

Mina took a deep breath, trying to regain her composure. "So, about this bachelor auction, I think it's a fantastic idea," she said, her voice steadier now. "It'll add a unique twist to the event, and I'm sure it will be a huge success. We can definitely rally more support and hash out the details as you suggested."

She shot Alexander a flirtatious smile, hoping to pick up where they left off before her brief distraction. "Now, where were we? Ah, yes, the charms of a date night," she purred, her playful tone returning as she continued their flirty conversation. ”I must say, I’m intrigued that you’re concerned about me potentially having been one of the contenders. Worried you wouldn’t be able to win me for a date night perhaps?” She asked, clearly teasing.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

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

Kalliope felt a mix of emotions as she walked beside Sjan-dehk along the beach. The unexpected peck on his cheek had been impulsive, driven by a surge of gratitude and perhaps something more she couldn't quite define. She noticed the faint pink tint on his cheeks and the way he nervously scratched his face, and it brought a subtle smile to her lips. But then she felt a surge of disgust within herself as Layla’s words echoed in her mind. Perhaps she was nothing more than a whore? Her stomach lurched and she felt ill, but she kept her composure as she tried to push the thought away.

His words, however, tugged at her heart. She appreciated his defense and the way he stood up for her, but she also saw the unease in his eyes. It was clear that the encounter with the princess had left an impression on him, and she felt a strange mixture of gratefulness and guilt. Grateful for his support, and guilty for involving him in this awkward situation. She could only pray that she hadn’t left a bad impression of herself on him.

Sjan-dehk's comments about the princess made her chuckle softly. "Yes, it seems we've stumbled upon the less savory side of nobility today," she replied, her voice carrying a touch of wry humor especially as she caught a glance of Count Damien seeming to be headed their way. What could he possibly want? Her attention was pulled back to the man beside her, however, as she gave him her full attention once more.

His mention of the Way intrigued her. Kalliope had heard some of Jafin's teachings and the principles that guided the people of Viserjanta from Izahn. It was a refreshing perspective, one that emphasized the potential for redemption and the impact of one's past experiences. She respected that viewpoint and appreciated Sjan-dehk's attempt to find some compassion for the princess, especially since she found herself struggling to do so.

As he spoke about her character and her actions, she couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth. It was as if a weight had been lifted, and his words helped dispel some of the lingering unease from the encounter. His smile and encouragement were a balm to her wounded pride.

When he pulled away and apologized, she shook her head gently, her expression softening. "No need for apologies, Sjan-dehk. I didn’t mind, truly. You've been a true friend today, and I appreciate it," she said sincerely.

Kalliope watched Calbert approach with a polite and composed expression, though beneath it, her thoughts were far less gracious. The man was a snake, and she found herself thoroughly disliking him. His facade of politeness didn't fool her for a second, and his smile only made her trust him less. Though she realized she likely knew more about him than most others thanks to her line of work.

As he handed her the invitation, she took it gracefully and inclined her head in acknowledgment. "Thank you for your kind words, Calbert. It's good to be back," she replied, her tone polite but devoid of genuine warmth.

When he turned his attention to Sjan-dehk, her gaze flickered briefly to her companion. She couldn't help but wonder what Calbert's true intentions were in approaching them. Her suspicions were on high alert, but she kept her expression pleasantly neutral as she observed the interaction between Calbert and the Captain.

Once he had walked away, she found herself quietly speaking to Sjan-dehk about the man. ”Careful with him, he’s a wolf in disguise.” She wouldn’t say more than that before glancing down at the invitation and being reminded of the masquerade she’d invited Sjan-dehk to yesterday. ”But I suppose his approach did help me think of something. Before I let you get back to your day, are we still going to the masquerade tonight together?”

Avalia

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

”Bard? I mean I can sing and kinda play a couple instruments, but I don’t see how that’ll help us in a fight…” Kenia trailed off as her brows knitted together in confusion at what Jun was on about. It was the mention of her being an assassin that sent alarm bells ringing in the back of her head, but she didn’t let it show on her face as she kept her expression neutral. It was clear Jun was somehow discussing the party’s composition and combat strategies, but he had a strange way of going about it. ”I think I’ll just stick to the role of friendly neighbor who can hold her own in a fight and is willing to help out some, hopefully, new friends.”

Internally, Kenia couldn't help but roll her eyes at Jun's convoluted descriptions of their group dynamics. Bard? Rogue? Assassin? Is this guy for real? I mean, he’s not entirely wrong, but seriously? She thought with a mental smirk, amused by Jun's creative interpretations of their group dynamics. Maybe I should tell him I'm a shape-shifting dragon next.

As they prepared to head into the woods, she couldn't help but sigh inwardly at the thought of assisting Malachi. What a great opportunity for him to get lost in the woods and save me the trouble of dealing with his abrasive attitude, she mused, though her external expression remained friendly and concerned. ”Mind pointing us exactly in the direction he ran, Jun?” She asked once they’d grabbed what they needed and headed out of the house.

She hated that she didn’t have her swords with her, but she could make due with just her light magic she supposed. There wasn’t really much time for her to stop for her weapons unless she wanted to look suspicious for wasting time. She also cursed herself for wearing a dress, trying to look cute and friendly. It really wasn’t the proper attire for fighting in, but she couldn’t dwell on that now as she began heading in the direction Jun would point out.

It wasn’t long before she heard the whimpers and cries of a child and almost in an instant her demeanor changed, becoming far more alert. Her eyes landed on Malachi and the child then moved to the scene ahead of them. ”Shit.” She muttered as she came up behind them, looking at the spider's meal. ”Hope you don’t mind a little extra help.” She said to Malachi as her eyes scanned the darkness of the forest for any signs of the beasts as she stood protectively beside the child now. She could only currently trust that the others had followed as well.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Munir & Mina

Date: Evening of Sola 22nd

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Part Two

The fire had died down to embers, casting a warm glow over the room as Mina lay snuggled against Munir's chest. Her fingers traced lazy patterns on his skin, and she couldn't help but smile contentedly. Munir's words had touched her heart, and she felt an overwhelming sense of love and affection for him. It was a feeling she hadn't expected, but one she welcomed with open arms.

She looked up at Munir, her eyes soft and filled with adoration, yet a spark of mischief was there too. "I think you admitted to loving me earlier," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the crackling of the fire, and then she giggled. "You've stolen my heart, Munir. I never thought I'd find someone like you, someone who makes me feel so alive and cherished."

Munir sighed with contentment. He was spent, but in the best way. He had one arm wrapped around Mina, and his head was propped at an angle against the headboard. “Mmm. I don’t know. I wonder if you could have been hearing things, because I was…well…we know what happened. I might need medical attention from the absolute gashes you’ve dug into my back…” Munir teased. Of course she was right. He said the ‘L’ word earlier. He said it and meant it.

“Just your heart? It seems my skills were rusty.. I want your heart, your body, everything. I want it all… He quipped and gave the top of Mina’s head a tender kiss. He held her close, allowing their naked bodies to remain connected under the blankets and their body heat to entangle.

They laid there in each other's arms, basking in the afterglow of their passion. Mina couldn't remember a time when she had felt so complete, so content. For the first time in a very long time, she felt happy. But as she nestled closer to Munir, she could sense a change in the air, a tension building. Her heart skipped a beat when she heard the heavy footsteps approaching the room.

Then. The door to his chamber burst open. Hakim stumbled in after Count Sebastian who had charged in. Sebastian’s eyes fell on the two of them and his face was flushed with anger, his eyes burning with fury. "Mina!" he bellowed, his voice echoing through the room. "What is the meaning of this? How dare you!"

“Uncle!” Mina scrambled to sit up, clutching the sheets to her chest, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

“Hakim. It’s alright. Leave us…” Munir said nonchalantly, dismissing his retainer with a small wave. His other arm instinctively went to wrap around Mina’s waist as she sat up, covering up with a sheet. He pulled her down towards him in a motion to look like he had claimed her as his. He gave her a reassuring kiss to her temple and whispered “It’s alright, my Moon and stars. We’ll be alright ... Looking up at Count Sebastian, Munir addressed him without fully sitting up, as if his being with Mina was something that happened matter of factly. “Count Sebastian. How good it is to see you. Yes. It is as you are thinking. Mina and I were, moments before you entered my room, connected, both mentally and physically. Now. I am a stranger to Kolonivkan customs but in Alidasht, this can go one of two ways. I’m sure you’ve heard of my reputation, so I will let you guess how this proceeds from here…” Munir said with a disobedient smirk on his face.

Count Sebastian's face contorted with rage and his eyes flashed with something dark as he saw the scene before him. Without a moment's hesitation, he lunged at Munir with surprising speed and strength, pinning him by the throat against the wall.

"You dare defile my niece, you wretched scoundrel! Make her another of your play things?! Risk her to end up just like her mother!" he hissed, his voice unnaturally cold and menacing. His grip on Munir's throat tightened, and a low growl emanated from deep within his chest.

Mina screamed in horror, desperately trying to pull her uncle away from Munir. "Uncle, stop! Please stop! Let him go!" she cried, her heart pounding in her chest. She had never seen her uncle like this before, and the sight terrified her. But what terrified her more was what she saw in that grimace, what she knew could be coming next, and she desperately tried to yank her uncle away. Instead, Mina was tossed aside like a ragdoll and crashed against a side table. She let out a pained cry as she felt a warm trickle down her arm, glancing down to see a small gash and blood. She dipped her fingers in it in shock at first, but a fierce determination overcame her as her now bloodied hand went to push herself up. It almost seemed like she muttered something before pushing herself up once again.

"Sebastian, stop! Please, let him go!" Mina pleaded, tears streaming down her cheeks. She couldn't bear to see Munir hurt, and she couldn't understand why her uncle was reacting with such violence. Something in Sebastian faltered for just a moment, as if being hit by some trance. ”I love him!

Of course there were sounds of commotion. To which Munir’s retainer heard and charged back through the door. Upon seeing the situation, Hakim immediately drew his sword and made a move at Sebastian. To which Munir thrusted his hand into the air, to stop Hakim. “Count…Sebastian… I can…ex-explain… if you… un-hhhand me..it… it is not…as it seems…” Damn this man is stronger than he looks, Munir thought. He can feel the air leaving his esophagus, and was tethering on losing consciousness.

Her words seemed to snap her uncle out of his trance for a moment. He looked at her, his eyes wide with surprise and realization. He stumbled over his words as he tried to address Mina, releasing Munir in the process.

"Mina, I... I didn't mean... I was just... trying to protect you," he stammered, his voice shaking with remorse.

"Get. Out." There was an unsettling chill within those two simple words. Sebastian looked stunned for a moment, but then he tried to reason with her again, taking a step closer.

"Mina, please, I didn't mean to hurt him. I was just trying to protect you. You don't understand..."

"Get out! Get out!" she screamed, her voice filled with anger and pain. She grabbed a nearby pillow and threw it at him. Then another one.

Sebastian stumbled back, finally realizing the gravity of his actions. He looked at Mina with tears in his eyes, his voice breaking as he tried to apologize. "Mina, I... I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you or him. I just... I was worried... I love you, Mina, and I just wanted to protect you..."

But Mina didn't want to hear his apologies. She felt betrayed and hurt, and all she wanted was for him to leave. She picked up another object, a small decorative vase, and threw it at him with all her strength. "Get out! Get out!" she screamed, her voice hoarse from shouting. Her show quickly followed and then the other one as she pelted her uncle with anything she could grab and throw.

Sebastian stumbled out of the room, tears streaming down his face, and Mina collapsed back to the ground, not remembering when she'd stood. A raw, pained, and angry scream escaped her just before she began sobbing uncontrollably.

Upon being released, Munir crumpled to a heap on the floor. Gasping and coughing, Munir tried his best to stand up and gather himself. He heard the back and forth between Sebastian and Mina, and wanted so badly to interject. However, he did not fully regain his composure until the very end, just before Sebastian left.

“Count-Count Blackwood. You and I will have a r-r-real conversation one day. Man to man… Hakim, see the count out.” Munir said, sending his retainer to make sure Sebastian was alright.

Meanwhile, Munir moved slowly back towards Mina, picking her up from the floor and just held her in his bed, letting go of a few small raspy coughs in between. “There there, my Moon and Stars. There there. I’m here. I’m alright… you’re alright…”

Mina clung to Munir, her body trembling with a mix of fear, anger, and sorrow. His presence was the only thing that could bring her a semblance of comfort in that moment of chaos. The weight of her uncle's betrayal and the violence she had witnessed, her own violence she displayed, weighed heavily on her heart. She felt broken and vulnerable, but she also felt an overwhelming sense of love and gratitude towards Munir.

”I know he’s just worried I’m going to end up like my mother, unwed and with child. He doesn’t want me shunned as she was, risk me being driven mad like her…but that rage and violence…” She trailed off, shuddering some at the thought of it all.

"Thank you," she whispered through her tears, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you for being here, for protecting me, for loving me." In that moment, she realized how deeply she cared for him, how much he meant to her. And she knew that despite the challenges they would face, she wanted him by her side, to be her safe harbor in the storm.

“Oh my dear. I can make sure you’re with child after tonight. But then I will wed you, and you will be my queen. None in Alidasht or Kolonivka shall shun you, lest they suffer the wrath of Alidasht. It is only right I am by my queen, to protect her when needed and to support her in all things…” Munir said, holding Mina close to her.

To be truthful, her ‘violent outburst’ went relatively unnoticed by Munir, as he was gathering himself. In the moment, he simply held onto her, giving her soft, gentle kisses on the head and cheek, while allowing their body heat to mingle.

Mina's tears continued to flow as she listened to Munir's words. His offer to make her his queen and protect her was both comforting and overwhelming. But his comment about ensuring she would be with child after tonight struck a nerve. She knew he meant well, but the weight of her uncle's anger and disappointment still lingered in her heart. She was also beginning to realize what the consequences of her actions could be and it frightened her greatly. She understood his desire to marry her and provide her with security, but in that moment, it felt like he was reducing her to a mere pawn in a game of politics and succession.

"You can't just say things like that, Munir," she snapped, her voice quivering with emotion. "You can't treat me like some pawn in your plans, or some vessel to fulfill your desires. I am not just a means to an end."

Her words were unjustified and harsh, but in that moment, she couldn't help but lash out at him. Her uncle's actions had rattled her, and the wounds from her past were still fresh. The pain of her mother's tragic end still haunted her, and she couldn't help but project that pain onto Munir, even though he meant well.

Through Mina’s outbursts, Munir remained steadfast, holding her gently but firmly, and constantly offered small, reassuring kisses wherever he could. With a commanding, but still gentle tone, he said “Lady Mina Blackwood of Kolonivka, I need you to hear me, and hear me well. You’re the singular object of all of my desires. You vex me in ways no one and nothing else has before. And I wish for nothing less. You say that I can’t treat you like a pawn. Of course I cannot. You’re the Queen of my chess board, free to move as you pleased. You say that I cannot view you as a simple vessel of my desires. Of course not. You’re to be my Queen. The mother of our beautiful children and the shining jewel brought to Alidasht from the North, not a simple vessel. You say that you cannot simply be a means to an end for me. Of course not. You are my end. You alone are what I’ve been searching for, in this life or the next. I will not probe into your family history. Because they are not my concerns, should you choose to keep them from me. However, know this. Whatever tragedy has befallen you in the past will not repeat themselves. I will not allow it, even if it shall take my entire being to prevent.”

With the end of his words, he shifted slightly on the bed, noticing that Mina felt cold, even under his blankets. Slipping from the bed, he allowed the sheets to fall from his still naked body as he walked to add a few more logs to the slowing embers in his hearth. He also snatched something from a nearby table as he returned to the edge of the bed. Bending down on one knee, he extended his hand to Mina “May I have your hand, Lady Blackwood?” Held in his other hand, if Mina chose to look, would be a golden ring, made amber by the fire in the hearth. On the ring is a singular gemstone, obsidian in color, with something etched in it.

Mina's anger had been a mixture of fear, confusion, and her own past pain. Munir's response to her outburst was unexpected, and his words struck her like a tide of emotions crashing over her. The strength and depth of his feelings for her were evident, and it overwhelmed her. As he spoke, her anger began to subside, replaced by a whirlwind of conflicting emotions.

His proclamation of how she vexed him, of her being the Queen of his chessboard, the mother of their children, and his end – it was all so much to take in. She felt a mix of vulnerability and tenderness, but also a pang of panic. This was moving far too fast, and she was unprepared for such a momentous decision. The weight of his expectations, as well as her own, bore down on her, making her feel as if she were drowning in a sea of uncertainty.

Munir's proposal, kneeling before her with a ring in hand, was an image out of a dream she hadn't dared to dream. But dreams, she knew, often held secrets and shadows. As her eyes locked onto the obsidian gemstone, a rush of memories surged through her. The weight of her past, the secrets she held, her own hidden fears – they all swirled within her, threatening to break the fragile surface of her composure. How could she explain everything to him? How could she tell him her darkest secret? How could she put him at risk like that?

She held her breath, torn between the undeniable connection she felt with Munir and the fear of revealing her true self, her family's history, the shadows that had haunted her. It was too much, too soon, and she wasn't ready to lay everything bare.

"I... I appreciate your words, Munir," Mina said, her voice trembling with a mixture of emotions. "And I don't doubt your sincerity. But this... this is all so sudden. I have…things from my past that I'm not ready to share yet." She felt a surge of guilt for withholding the truth from him, but she also knew that this was a decision she needed to make for herself.

Tears welled up in her eyes again, and she felt her heart shatter with the weight of her conflicted feelings. "I need time to think, Munir. This is a decision that will shape both of our lives, and I can't make it lightly." She offered him a tearful smile, her heart aching as she realized she might be pushing him away. "Please understand. I... I need to find my own answers before I can give you an answer."

With that, she gently pulled her hand from his grasp, feeling the absence of his touch like a physical ache. She turned away, her tears falling freely now. "I'm so sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible as she slipped from the bed, hastily grabbing her wrapping herself in the bedsheet and abandoning her clothes altogether. She needed to be alone, to sort through her thoughts, to face the secrets she had kept hidden for so long.

Without another word, she fled from the room, her heart heavy with the weight of her decisions and the emotions that threatened to consume her as tears freely flowed from her eyes now.

A wave of darkness rushed over Munir as he listened to Mina speak. It seems as if she is not ready to accept his, albeit hasty, proposal. He steadied his nerves and refrained from interjecting as Mina continued to speak. As Mina finished her words, Munir felt as if the fire in the hearth had turned to ice, and the light from the moon gave way to the darkness of night. It felt as if his world was crumbling and being blown away like sand. As Mina pulled away from him, he found himself instinctively reaching out to try to find her hand once more, grasping at nothing but shadows.

“Mina… I…” was all that Munir could eke out as Mina made a hasty exit from his chamber, leaving her clothes behind. Munir sighed and allowed the ring to tumble from his palms, metal bouncing against the granite floor. As Mina made her exit, the door to his chambers was left open, and Hakim stepped in. “Dearest Hakim. Please take Lady Mina’s garbs, package them so as to not give away their truth, and send it to her chamber. I bid you good evening. I wish to be alone for a while as well.” Hakim merely bowed his head slightly before gathering up Mina’s robes and made his exit, the chamber door creaking shut behind him.

As the night settled, Munir sat near the fire and idly poked at the charred wood within, occasionally adding a log or two to keep the fire burning. The gold ring with the etched obsidian jewel remained where it had fallen, casting a long shadow across the polished floor of the impossibly cold chamber. The despair within him grew to be a barathrum…

“I don’t care about your past. I don’t care about your family. I certainly don’t care about whatever it is that troubled you. I accept them all…You’re all I want.” He whispered to himself, suddenly faced with a dolorous reality.

🗡 Roses and Daggers 🎕

Munir & Mina

Date: Evening of Sola 22nd

---

Part One

Mina's frustration boiled within her as she stood face-to-face with her uncle, Count Sebastian, in their lavish sitting room. The air crackled with tension, their voices escalating in a heated argument. Sebastian's concerned gaze bore into Mina, his voice tinged with worry and frustration.

"Mina, you had a seizure! You fainted right in front of everyone! This isn't something to be taken lightly," Sebastian exclaimed, his hands gesturing in exasperation. "Your visions...they're becoming more frequent, more intense. I can't bear to see you suffer like this."

Mina's eyes blazed with defiance as she clenched her fists. "You're being ridiculous, Uncle! It was just a momentary lapse, nothing more. I can handle myself. I don't need to be sent back to Kolonivka like some fragile doll."

Sebastian's brows furrowed deeply, his voice growing louder with each word. "Fragile? This isn't about fragility, Mina. This is about your well-being, your safety! I won't risk losing you because you're too stubborn to acknowledge the severity of the situation."

Mina's anger surged, her voice reaching a crescendo as she shouted back at her uncle. "I won't go back! I won't be locked away like some damsel in distress. I can handle my visions, my own fate! You can't control me, Uncle! Besides, Roman offered his protection. I’ll be fine!"

Sebastian's face flushed with anger, his voice booming through the room. "Remain in these rooms, Mina. I will make the arrangements, and you will go back to Kolonivka until we find a way to manage this. I won't argue any further!"

With a mixture of frustration and defiance, Mina let out a scream of frustration before huffing and storming over to a nearby chair. She flung herself into it, her body trembling with anger and hurt. Sebastian disappeared into his room, leaving Mina to wrestle with her emotions in the suffocating silence that enveloped the room.

The weight of their disagreement hung heavy in the air, and Mina knew that the battle between her desires and her uncle's concerns was far from over.

Munir has been in his room, not really wanting to participate in whatever event has been taking place. Sure, he was asked to partake in the summer’s festivities in the hopes of finding himself an imperial consort. However, ever since his first fateful meeting with Lady Mind Blackwood of Kolonivka, he wanted no one else. It was her, or he will be returning to Alidasht by himself. The Sultan would not have liked this but he did not care.

Checking his garb in front of the large, polished bronze mirror, he straightened himself out and stepped out of his room, deciding that some fresh air could be nice. His retainer, Hakim, dutifully followed behind him as he quietly paced the halls of his temporary Northern residence.

Mina slipped into her rooms, putting on a convincing act by lying down in bed, making it seem as if she had obeyed her uncle's orders. But as soon as she was sure he was occupied with something else, she placed pillows under her covers in order to make it appear like she simply fell asleep. Then she quietly slipped out of a hidden door that led to a long-forgotten servants' entrance. She'd discovered this entrance years ago and it was one of the reasons why they always requested the same rooms. Sometimes she liked to slip away without anyone being the wiser. The passageway was dimly lit, cobwebs hanging in forgotten corners, but she navigated it with ease, knowing the way like the back of her hand.

Emerging into the hall not far from her rooms, she heard her uncle's voice, discussing with someone the arrangements for her travel back to Kolonivka. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she knew she couldn't let him catch her outside her rooms otherwise she wouldn't get a moment of freedom. Silently, she backed away, trying to slip away before she quite literally bumped into someone.

Startled, she looked up and found herself face-to-face with Munir. Her breath caught in her throat, and she instinctively took a step back, trying to gather her composure. Munir's dark eyes bore into hers, and she could sense that he had caught her in the act. She quickly held a finger up to her lips as she glanced over her shoulder frantically in the direction that her uncle's voice was still coming from. She was terrified he was about to give her away.

Munir was minding business, pacing down the corridor when a sudden thump stopped him in his tracks. He instinctively looked up in fury and reached out to shove the would-be intruder away from him to be punished by his retainer Hakim. “Ha-“ He began to say, in a rather subdued voice befitting of his quiet anger for having his empty thoughts disturbed. But it was them that he saw who it was. It was like a beam of moonlight against the dark canvas of the night. A fiery blaze that lit up his eyes. By the Sun Gods it was her. It seems they have finally answered his silent prayers.

“Mina…” Munir said, noticing the finger at Mina’s lips, telling him to keep his voice to a minimum. Munir nodded, snapping his fingers sharply once to direct Hakim to essentially secure their immediate surroundings. “Let’s speak in my room? I have so many things to ask you…” Despite their predicament, Munir has to say at least these last few words before gently and quietly guiding Mina to his room…

Mina's heart raced as she heard approaching footsteps from the direction of the voices, and she quickly nodded in agreement with Munir's suggestion. There was no time to waste, and she knew she had to act quickly if she wanted to avoid being caught by her uncle. With a swift, but silent, movement, she took Munir's hand and followed him as he led her to his room.

Once inside, she closed the door softly behind them and let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "Thank you for saving me from that predicament," she whispered, her voice tinged with relief. "I don't think my uncle would have taken kindly to finding me wandering the halls after he told me to not leave my room."

Mina's eyes locked with Munir's, and she couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions swirling inside her. There was a magnetic pull between them, an unspoken understanding that went beyond words. There was something different about him, something she hadn't experienced before. It was frightening and exhilarating all at the same time.

Munir nodded at Hakim, effectively dismissing him as Mina closed the door to his room. “I will not prod about the predicament you speak of. But please, Mina, rest assured. Your uncle, if I understand the man he is, will not come to my room to inquire about your whereabouts. You’re safe here. Please, sit…” Munir said softly, guiding her to one of the chairs in his room.

In the meantime, he could not take his eyes off of her. He wanted to rid her of all her worries, all of what she is anxious about. There was something about her that made him want to shield her from all that displeased her. “Mina…I…where have you been ...?” It was all that he could make out. It was as if words caught in his throat, and his brain scrambled to piece together a coherent sentence. But there was so much he wanted to say. How much he missed her. How much he craved her touch. How he longed for her lips.

Mina couldn't help but smirk playfully at Munir's question, a hint of teasing in her voice. "Oh, you missed me, did you?" she said with a raised eyebrow. "I must admit, I find it hard to believe, considering how you flit about with other women like a moth to a flame."

Her teasing aside, she then turned serious, her expression softening. "But in all honesty, I've been penned up in my room by my uncle's orders," she explained, her tone tinged with frustration. "After the incident at the execution, he's become even more overprotective and is now determined to send me back to Kolonivka. As if fainting is a crime punishable by exile."

Mina sighed, her eyes meeting Munir's with a mix of exasperation and longing. "I'm not a damsel in distress, Munir. I can handle myself, and that fainting spell I had is not as dire as he thinks. I wish he'd just let me stay and prove him wrong, but he's so stubborn." She paused for a moment, then added with a touch of bitterness, "As if he knows what's best for me better than I do."

“I…you…I…I flit around those women because it’s fun. It’s a game to me…But you… I…” He wanted to say it. To admit it. He missed her. He craved her. She is the flames his moth chased all this time. However, his pride wouldn’t allow it, at the moment. Little did he know, his armor was already cracking and beginning to leak…

“I would very much prefer it if you did not return to Kolonivka… Munir said sheepishly. Just what is going on. It was as if this woman had put some sort of spell on him. He is a bumbling mess when he is in her presence. His wits, his charm, all of it gone. Munir quietly listened to the rest of her words before formulating his response.

“Of course not, Mina. You’re a strong, independent woman. However, it makes sense your uncle is concerned. What if…what if I spoke with him and personally guaranteed your safety…? That way, you needn’t return to Kolonivka and your uncle can rest assured that your health and safety is being safeguarded by another royalty…? Of course, this is not meant to limit you in any way…”

Mina couldn't help but find Munir's stammering and stumbling endearing, and it made her heart skip a beat. She loved how he tried to maintain his composure, even though it was clear she had an effect on him. Her teasing nature prevailed, though, as she replied with a playful smile, "Oh, so you're saying I'm not just another conquest for your amusement? How flattering."

His offer to speak with her uncle caught her off guard. She hadn't expected him to take her concerns seriously, and a part of her was touched by his gesture. "You would do that?" she asked, a mix of surprise and hope in her voice. "You'd be willing to vouch for my safety and convince my uncle to let me stay? You really are full of surprises, Munir."

However, a hint of wariness crept into her expression as she continued, "I must admit, my uncle has not been too fond of you in the past. I'm not sure how he'd react to you advocating on my behalf. But...if you truly think it's worth a try, I won't stop you. Just be careful, alright?" Her concern for his well-being was genuine, even if she was trying to hide her growing affection for him. There seemed to be a slight hint of fear hidden in her eyes as she spoke of her uncle, something someone with a keen eye would only catch. Just as quickly as it was there, it was gone and a playful glint was in her eyes again.

“I do have another question, though. If I’m not just another conquest for your amusement, what am I?”

“You’re a different kind of conquest. Not only for amusement.” Munir responded in kind. It is true. He does not see Mina as a conquest. He isn’t able to put into words what he sees her as. All he knows is that when he isn’t with her, it feels as if a piece of himself is missing and nothing in the world can fill the hole.

“I am more than willing, if you will let me. I do not fear your uncle, nor am I anxious to speak with him. I will speak true to my intentions. To keep you safe, healthy, and hopefully happy. That way, he can carry on his life without having to constantly worry about you. You deserve at least that much. And if it is within my princely powers, you will have it…” Munir said, as the night breeze fluttered the curtains and allowed small streaks of moonlight to dance with the light of the hearth in his room.

He chuckled, finding a little more of his charm and playfulness at her question. “I said you’re a different kind of conquest. Make no mistakes. I want to conquer you. But, to answer your question. Truthfully, I don't know. What I can say is that I…I feel different when I’m with you. A moth to a flame, as you said before…”

Mina's heart fluttered at Munir's words, and she couldn't help but feel a warmth spreading through her chest. His genuine concern for her well-being touched her deeply, and she found herself slowly melting under the weight of his words. She let out a soft laugh at his response, the playfulness returning to her eyes as she teased, "Oh, a moth to a flame, is it? Be careful, my princeling, for you might just get burned."

But her flirtatious demeanor couldn't hide the genuine affection she felt for him. She leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a hushed whisper, "And what if I wanted to be conquered by you, Prince? What if I wanted to see what lies beyond that charming facade of yours?"

Her heart pounded in her chest as she waited for his response, the playful banter masking the vulnerability she felt in that moment. She wanted to know if he felt the same way, if he saw her as more than just a fleeting fancy. But at the same time, she was afraid of the answer, afraid of what it could mean for them both.

Without verbally replying, Munir placed an arm on Mina’s back and spun her lightly and dipped her. As he did so, he leaned in and stole a quick but firm kiss from her lips.

“What is fire, to a child of the Sun God? Lady Mina. I do not fear being burned. In fact, I welcome the challenge…” Yes, Munir still had Mina dipped and he was still leaning close to her. In a swift and agile turn, he spun her back and had her upright again.

“Do you hear that, Mina. The sound of war drums. It seems an army is on the march, intent on conquering. There are no walls in this war they cannot breach, no foreign land they cannot traverse, and no throne they cannot take. Are you sure you’re up for it?” He spoke of his feelings for her, in a rather metaphoric way of course. In truth, he wanted her right then and there. Her asking to see what lies beyond his demeanor, and telling him what if she wanted to be conquered stoke the fire that already burned within. His eyes now ablaze with desire and his voice laced with barbs meant to exert his will and desires.

Mina was momentarily taken aback by Munir's bold move, the sudden dip and the stolen kiss leaving her heart racing. But she quickly regained her composure, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she placed a hand on his chest and pushed him back slightly, pinning him against a nearby wall. "Oh, so you want a challenge, do you?" she said, her voice low and teasing.

Leaning in close while pressing her body against his, she planted a deep and passionate kiss on his lips, intent on leaving him breathless for a moment before she pulled away, a sly smile playing on her lips. "You've piqued my interest, Munir. But don't think for a moment that you've won me over so easily." Her hand trailed down his chest in a seductive manner, her eyes locked on his. "I'm not so easily conquered, you know. Even if I do want you to try to conquer me."

With a playful wink, she stepped away, leaving him against the wall. "But I do enjoy a good challenge. So, I'll let you try," she said, her voice dripping with flirtation. "Let's see what you're truly made of, princeling." With that, she turned and began to walk away, but not before glancing back over her shoulder with a sultry smile. "Now what alcohol do you keep in your rooms? I'm quite parched."

Breathless would be the exact, most appropriate word to describe him after Mina had leaned in and returned his kiss. She knows the game Munir has been playing his entire adulthood. She seems to be quite an expert as well, something Munir intended on finding out for himself.

Munir was left, leaning against the wall as Mina stepped away and inquired about what alcohol he had in his room. Munir was silent, mind both scrambled and razor focused. “Honeyed mead, kept on ice, and my private bottle brought from Alidasht…” was all that Munir said before he essentially peeled himself from the wall and made his way to Mina.

In one smooth motion, Munir had collected both of Mina’s delicate wrists in his left hand, spun her to face him, and pushed her up against the other wall in his room. Munir held Mina’s wrist firmly but not painfully, pressing them into the wall above her head as he leaned him to her intoxicatingly close. “You don’t get to just stoke my fire and walk away… I want you. Here and now… I must have you…” Munir growled the words at Mina, voice low and lustful. His right hand had slipped around her neck, gently closing in on her airways.

Mina's heart was pounding in her chest as Munir closed in on her, pinning her against the wall with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine. She felt his breath on her skin, his lips dangerously close to her ear as he whispered his desires. A surge of desire and anticipation washed over her, and she couldn't deny the pull she felt towards him. His touch was both commanding and tender, a paradox that ignited a fierce desire within her. She met his intense gaze with equal determination, refusing to show any sign of vulnerability, though her breaths were coming faster now.

"My, you speak with such conviction," she whispered, her voice filled with a mix of challenge and desire. "Do you really think this is going to make me submit?" She tilted her head slightly, her lips teasingly close to his ear. "You'll have to do more than just hold me against the wall to prove yourself. If you want me, truly want me, then show me. Show me that I'm more than a passing fancy."

With that, she brought one leg up and hooked it around his, her body pressing even closer to his. She nipped at his ear as if to tempt him to try something as she sensed his hand tightening around her neck, and while part of her welcomed the sensation, another part of her knew they were treading dangerous waters. Her words were a challenge, a test of his sincerity. She was drawn to him, there was no denying that, but she wouldn't let herself be a fleeting moment in his life. She wanted something real, something lasting. And she hoped he could prove himself worthy of that.

Munir let out a deep, throaty growl. She was issuing him challenge after challenge and he was going to answer as she was expecting him to. Indeed, the grip he had on her neck tightened, and he pressed her wrists into the wall even harder. He leaned in, not intending on stopping this time as he approached her neckline.

He gave her a sucking kiss, letting his teeth graze her flesh and allowing himself to taste her.

Mina gasped softly as Munir's grip tightened around her neck, a mixture of surprise and arousal coursing through her veins. But as his lips trailed down her neck, she felt a pang of uncertainty. She had always been open-minded and unafraid of exploring her desires, but there was something different about this moment, something that made her heart flutter with nervousness…and she had a secret.

"Munir, w-wait…" she whispered, her voice quivering with emotion. "I need you to know something." She paused for a moment, gathering her courage. Harlot. Whore. Slut. Lady of the night. All these phrases rang through her mind, but if they knew the truth…"This... this will be my first time."

Her words hung in the air between them, the weight of her confession sinking in. She looked up at him, her eyes searching for understanding and acceptance. "I want this, I want you, but I also want, no, I need you to know the truth," she said, her vulnerability showing. "Everything I am, everything people perceive me as…it’s all been a ruse."

Mina took in a shaky breath as she looked at him. "I want to explore this passion between us, but I want it to be with someone I care about deeply," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "And I care about you, Munir. More than I ever thought possible."

Munir’s kisses stopped just before her collarbone. The way Mina began to speak made him nervous. His hands naturally dropped to his sides as Mina continued to speak. His breathing was steady, but his hands gave his feelings away. They trembled slightly and the most minute amount of sweat gathered in his palms…

As Mina finished her words. Munir’s eyes dropped slightly. Gone was the lust and raging fire from before. What replaced it was a sense of serenity and adoration. His arms wrapped around the small of her back, keeping the pair of lovers close. He leaned in and kissed her deeply and tenderly. His voice was soft and full of care as he said “Lady Mina Blackwood. I love you.”

At the end of his words, he gently led her to his bed, allowing her to slide under the covers before he did so himself. “You will be the last woman I take to my bed. From now, until my last day…” Munir said to Mina tenderly. His hands deftly began caressing her body, taking care to exhibit both passion and care. His lips picked up where they left off, claiming what is his.

The fire crackled in the hearth. The curtains fluttered in the wind. The sounds of passion echoed in his chamber and thus, the hapless playboy has found his safe harbor, his home.

🗡 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."