boop

**Linn Amie Landcaster (Bill)** - *2019-05-29*


"Thank you for listening to an old king drabble on the greatest alliance of nobles, nay, men and women to come together in this era, the Calloran League." King Achelous Tyndall of Laera says to be met with a hearty round of applause from the party guests. Over a dozen tables filled with a half a dozen or more guests line the borders of the hall, and the center of the hall has a wooden floor in place for dancing. One end of the hall contains matching stairs, coming up from the left and right to a balcony that over looks the whole ballroom. Achelous speaks to the room from this balcony, below which the orchestra sits.

"The food shall be brought out in due time, but until then I encourage all of you to dance and be merry, enjoy the fruits of our combined cultures!" He finishes as the applause was just calming down, and the orchestra immediately starts up again. The varied guests of the party quickly begin to intermingle and some move to dance with wives or friends. Everyone at the party seems to be wearing their best outfits, shimmering dresses and black tailcoats fill the room. Groups form around tables, especially those with wine bottles to spare as the nobles and dignitaries of Callora share stories and tribulations of the day to day in their kingdoms.

Many discuss Dreca's advancement to the borders of Theanovene. Theanovene's neutral status has been respected thus far, but Dreca is so much closer to the Calloran borders than they were 6 months ago. It's a hot topic in every Kingdom and Region of the League, and a hotly debated one by the League Council. When does the war between Eraia and Dreca become their problem? Who does the League side with? What of Wynne's recent declaration of war against the Drecians? So many differing opinions have filled the news stands for the last month, and every day someone brings a new opinion to light on the subject.


Others discuss Calloran politics, how Rocnas to the east seems more and more detached from the League or how Etrina has allowed Eraia to enter it's borders for the first time in decades. Torshan's constantly political strife is always good for a laugh, when someone from Torshan isn't around to hear. Especially since a group of expert thieves have been raiding the homes of nobles while they're gone, taking anything of value only for it to end up in the hands of the peasants and beggers of the region. Betting on when Torshan will have yet another coup is on once again; it'd been a good 30 years but the elder guests of the party remember the last coup and can see the signs coming alight.

Still others spend their time loudly badmouthing foreign nations in ear shot of foreigners in attendance. No one is brave enough to command about the Wynnite dignitaries, more warrior than politician, but the odd Eraian knight or Drecan girl can pick up the Calloran's commentary about them. There's the ever present racism against laguz as well, although only a handful are in attendance. Though even the humans aren't immune to the gossip circle, as some wonder where the King's daughter had been the last year and a half.

All and all though the guests are pleasantly chatting or dancing to the lively music, and the party seems to be a resounding success. The food has yet to be served of course, but Laeran cooks put as much detail into their dishes as the mages do their spellcraft, and for an event of such grandeur they would pull out all the stops. It will be at least a half dozen songs before the cooks can prove it though and that leaves plenty of time to socialize with old and new friends...


**Tom (DM)** - *2019-05-29*


San and Elfriede packed their bags and donned their travel garments. Both said goodbye to their respective families, then boarded the cart (with 1 other armed Eraian Knight Escort) to be off.

*Perhaps no one will bother them on their travels this time…*, Elfriede thought about somewhat disappointed. He longed for the adventure and excitement he experienced with his travel companions. It had been a long 6 months since his parents had been suggested to put him under house arrest. *Although…,* he lamented, *much of the trouble they found themselves in was of their own doing…*

"I am quite excited to see the world outside Eraia..", San remarked. "...And I am happy to have someone I trust with me as well." Elfriede nodded to her and smiled, returning the sentiment. San briefly considered asking about his travels, but recalling on how he has recoiled in the past when asked about the Laeran Princes he had been escorting... perhaps it wasn't the best of ideas right at this moment. Obviously enough to her, “something” had happened, but what it was wasn’t for her to know right now.
---


*On the cart during the trip, they stopped at a few military bases along the coast (letters had been sent prior to their arrival). It was several weeks before they travelled up the west coast to finally arrive in Laera for the event to be shown to their temporary quarters.

Faun and San got dressed in their respective rooms. Elfriede wore a semi military formal outfit while San sported an Eraian colored ball dress, a bit fancier than someone of her class, however the Faun family paid for the tailoring of their son’s guest.*


The entered the main room together in traditional escort fashion, San’s arm around his elbow. They both were shown to their seats away from the dance floor where they both sat wide eyed. San’s eyes scanned the room in excitement. Nothing she had ever seen could compare to the architecture, mixed cultures, food smells and overall grandeur of what she saw. *And I thought the Faun’s were flush.* she thought to herself amused.

Elfriede’s eyes darted the room while he semi ducked his head. He was scanning the room for a very different reason. The Knight Lieutenant wondered if she would be out and about on the dance floor and.. just how awkward a meeting now would be. Would they even speak, or ignore each other. He certainly didn’t know what to say. Faun covered his face a bit in embarrassment.

Suddenly everyone was silent and gazing to the far side of the room, it seemed a noble man was to speak.


***Papa Tyndall’s speech and music resumes***

San immediately stood up and held out her hand. “You will dance with me won’t you Sir Faun?” Elfriede peaked out a bit from his emotional shell he had been forming looking rather unenthused. “Or rather… do you even know how to dance?” She smirked a bit. "I would think that a noble knight would have to know at least a little."

Elfriede sighed and begrudgingly stood up. “Of course I do.” Dances didn't happen often in Eraia other than for courting purposes, but it was still a requirement for schooling. He thought about how similar dancing was to dueling a skilled opponent and smiled a bit at his nerdiness.

“There’s your enthusiasm!” San remarked as they walked out on the dance floor.


**Aldus Larian (Jess)** - *2019-05-29*


Aldus leans with his elbows against the railing of the balcony overlooking the ballroom as King Tyndall gives his speech. Off to the side he spots Princess Tyndall as well as an older woman to whom the princess resembles considerably, presumably the Queen.

“Well *I* heard that the princess was beginning to get to preoccupied with *boys* instead of learning the duties to be expected of her.” he hears a haughty voice to the left of him say. The same voice he heard commenting on the amount of “pets” around a few minutes ago.

“Oh is that *so*?” an equally as pretentious answer resounds.

Giggles erupt from the pair as Aldus turns, closing the few steps between himself and the gossipers.

“You know, *I* heard that people who gossip about the Princess, think the light shines out their *behinds* and then” he pauses relishing in their shocked look, “when the Princess hears this she makes it *actually happen*” He punctuates  his words with a wide grin that greatly contrasts the undertones of hostility in his statement. “Word of advice,” he continues. “Us ‘pets’ are *very* good listeners. You two have a *lovely* evening now.” he turns on his heel, clasping his hands behind his back and paces away while the pair of gossipers try to stop their embarrassment from manifesting on their cheeks.

Spotting Vesper leaning their back against the nearby bar - no doubt observing both him and the other interminglings occurring - he saunters over to them, taking station at their side.

“Deafening Lady’s honors Sir Larian?” They ask tease, handing him a cocktail glass matching their own.

“And sassing racists in the name of Laguz everywhere!” He flashes a smile of thanks at the drink and takes a sip of the clouded yet translucent liquid.


“A true champion of the people indeed!” They laugh. “Some people find that attractive you know.” They add playfully touching the braid running down the length of Aldus’s back that they themselves had helped him put in this morning before leaving for the party.

“Mmm” he say, stroking his newly clean shaven face in false deliberation. “Would ‘some people’ happen to be you?”

They give a short laugh “Wouldn't *you* like to know?” They sip their cocktail while maintaining eye contact with him as he shakes his head in mock exasperation.

“Ancestors, what am I going to do with you?” he mutters, sending his companion into a fit of laughter.


They shrug away from the bar, “Come Aldus, let us observe the people! See if we can find anyone we know!” they flourish a bow in front of him, offering him their hand.


He downs the the remainder of his cocktail, shakes off the bitter yet tangly burn, and places his hand in theirs as the two descend the staircase arm-in-arm. As they do, many pairs of eyes sweep over Aldus’s face and form. Some in racial discrimination but most in appreciation of his unique yet reformed appearance.

“Someone's a head turner” Vesper comments under their breath.

As they descend the staircase, Aldus notices a familiar Erian Knight dancing with a not so familiar bright faced young woman. *I thought for some reason he was with the princess, but I suppose it was just an escort mission. They look very nice together!* Aldus thinks, giving Elfriede a polite nod when his eyes dart up to meet his momentarily.

There's no sign of either members of his former traveling party just yet. He assumes they would have received invitations as well. He surely isn’t of the same social standing as the Princess or even Knight Lieutenant Faun. Well not as far as the princess knows anyway.

Aldus and Vesper finish their descent down the staircase, pausing just off to the side Aldus suddenly feels a little nervous at the idea of asking Vesper to dance. They’ve never been to any even somewhat formal event together, sure they banter and tease each other but that's usually in the privacy of their headquarters or at least under shadow of night. He fidgets slightly with the broach adorning his cravat and purses his lips in internal conflict.

“Shall we dance?” Vesper shatters his thoughts, taking the lead. “When in Laera and all that?”

“I’d love to” Aldus answers with a toothy grin, feeling stupidly giddy at the fact that Vesper is not afraid of this public display.


**Afina Tyndall (Georgia)** - *2019-05-30*


Mere minutes after her father had finished addressing the crowd, Afina found herself lingering on the fringes of the gathering, physically present but mentally disengaged. “You seem unenthused,” a familiar voice noted, and Afina turned to see the her mentor, Master Witella, holding a glass of wine. “It does not bode well for your father if you, his daughter, ignore every guest at a dinner devoted to unity between the nations.”

“A naive observation. You assume I want to see everyone that is in attendance today,” Afina remarked, folding her arms, the fabric of her dress rustling as she turned her posture away from him defensively.

“And yet you approved all invites. Pity.” He paused a moment to take a sip of his drink. “Well, as glad as I am to see you no longer wallowing in your own sadness, do consider the ramifications of what you do today. Beyond whatever personal drama you seem to have accumulated as a result of the Eraia incident.” Master Witella raised the glass to the princess. “Consider this another lesson, I’ll be watching,” he remarked slyly, before sauntering off towards another cluster of congregated nobles.

Afina pursed her lips. _Master Witella, acting like he knows how a princess should behave_, she thought, grabbing a wine glass from a serving tray as she stalked back towards the center of festivities.


“Ah, Afina!” a voice proclaimed, grabbing her by the wrist suddenly. With a sharp inhale, Afina froze, wine sloshing over the rim of her glass and dibbling onto the edges of her dress. “My lady, I was just telling our friends of our fox hunting together. We have quite a time, don’t you agree?” the man proclaimed confidently, guiding Afina to his side.

“Kieron, greetings… yes,” the princess began, startled from the sudden gesture. The knight beamed down at her, dark hair swept back off his forehead, and green eyes vibrant. As his arm draped across her shoulders, Afina noticed the blue and silver in his military vest matched that of her own dress almost too well. _Very subtle, Myrti,_ Afina thought to herself. _Designing clothes for all the nobility and you give us matching outfits, I know your tricks._

Afina smiled and nodded at the crowd in front of them. She recognized the insignias on their chests as those of Torshan. _Of course, that would make sense_, the princess thought. _Kieron Bardolph, son of Lady Bardolph. The councilwoman. From Torshan_. “We have a lovely time, Kieron is quite adept at unifying dark magic and knight training for hunting purposes.”


“Ah, see! She flatters me. You do, Afina. Anyways.” Kieron started, turning back to his friends to continue the conversation. Afina made a mental note to correct him, _once again_, about addressing superiors with a proper honorific. Afina glanced about the room as Kieron prattled on, watching as the orchestra approached the end of their first song, and scanning the crowd of dancers. Some nobles locked together in an intimate embrace, while others, meeting for the first time, danced with an energetic nervousness. The dancers separated and clapped lightly as the first song concluded. And then Afina saw a flash of purple. _Only an Eraian would wear that shade of purple to this dinner, which means that--._

“Ah pardon us, friends. In my haste, it seems I have ruined the princess’ dress with wine. We shall return shortly,” Kieron proclaimed to the Torshan nobles, before steering Afina towards the ballroom exit.

“Excuse me, I-- wait a moment!” Afina protested, setting her wine glass down on a nearby table and turning to face the noble. “Kieron, you are quite nice, and I appreciate all the help you have been in the wake of my troublesome journey, but I must insist--.” The princess hesitated.


_Consider the ramifications of what you do today_. Afina could not afford to spurn Kieron’s… more forthright nature. His mother was an important member of the council, and he had performed many vital duties in Afina’s absence. He had even gone as far as to teach her the basics of dark magic himself. She couldn’t lie to him either, and feign interest in another noble. The gossip that such a lie could generate would be devastating. Anxiety built in the princess’ chest as she looked for an out. And then the orchestra started up again.

“I mean, surely, it is already a shame to have missed the first dance. I dare think of the disgrace that missing the second would bring,” she declared, head tilted towards the orchestra.

“I… yes! Surely, Afina. It is the knight’s duty to carry out the princess’ command,” he nodded, offering his arm in escort her to the center of the dancefloor.

_Surely..._ Afina thought to herself.


**Chengu Tiaowen (Erik)** - *2019-05-30*


Chengu sat in the carriage, thinking about the past few day. He tugged at the collar of his shirt. These fancy clothes felt tight. Restrictive. They reminded him that although he was out of the mines, he was still under Dreca’s control. As they continued towards the castle, his mind kept racing over the events of the past 72 hours…

He had been personally selected to accompany some noble to some fancy party that was being held in Laeran. It didn’t really seem like the type of thing Chengu would normally agree to. He wasn’t really quite sure why they had him on this mission. The noble was from Torshan so he assumed it had something to do with his being a tiger laguz. The whole thing seemed rather suspicious, but they had said he had a chance to gain his and his mother’s freedom. That was all that was driving him. Chengu hadn’t seen his mother in about three years and honestly wasn’t even sure if she was alive.

No. She *was* alive. He could *feel* it. She *had* to be. He *had* to save her...

THUMP!

The carriage hit a pothole, bringing Chengu’s mind back to the present. They slowly approached the front entrance of the castle and came to a halt.

“Alright, we’re here,” said the noble, pulling his gloves on and adjusting his attire. “Remember, we are not here to cause any trouble so please, don’t go wild on me.”

Chengu rolled his eyes. It had been years since he had last transformed into his full form.

“Relax, boy,” the noble chuckled. “Just think of this as a treat for all your hard work down in those dirty mines. Try to have a good time, keep your eyes peeled, your ears open, and try not to make Torshan look bad.”


Chengu tried to relax. It was difficult in these restrictive clothes. They stepped out of the carriage and made their way to the main entrance. The herald announced their arrival as they entered the foyer. They made their way into the ballroom and Chengu was awestruck. He had never seen anything like this before in his life. The stupendous staircases, the shimmering chandeliers, the ornate orchestra. It was all so fantastic! Growing up in the villages of Kisselain, he had seen nothing but simple structures. After his capture all he knew were the mines of Dreca.

“Now,” said the noble, adjusting his coat, “I have a few colleagues I am meeting up with. Remember what I said. We’ll meet back up here later. Don’t even *think* about ditching me. You will sorely regret it.” He nodded curtly at Chengu and walked off.

If Chengu was going to gain any intel, he was going to need to be sociable. He saw a waiter carrying a tray of champagne walking near him. Chengu reached his tail out and picked up a glass as the waiter walked by. He combed through his freshly groomed whiskers with his fingers and adjusted his hair into a neat bun.

*You can do this,* he thought to himself as his tail brought the glass of bubbly liquid to his lips.


**Nokri (Marisa)** - *2019-05-30*


When the party invitation finally reached her, Nokri coveted it like Willy Wonka’s golden ticket. She showed it to few, but didn’t mind if word of its existence spread throughout the rinky-dink town as a hot conversation topic. Who would have thought the mysterious new waitress of the town’s watering hole had such big connections?

She was already a minor local celebrity after appearing out of nowhere and curing the mayor’s cough. By following her daily prescription he no longer sounded like a dying smoker and his fits were much fewer and farther between. The townsfolk mused at how such an innocent girl didn’t even notice the mayor’s romantic endeavors until he basically mowed down her door and demanded to be her partner for the party.

And so on the day of, Nokri arrived with her delicate arm linked around that of an average looking brunette man. His appearance was so generic, with no definite defining features, that he could be easily forgotten if one looked away for a minute. His skin was pale in stark contrast to his date’s tanned appearance, but his hair was only a few shades darker than her own reddish-brown, brushed out in loose bushy waves. Nokri was worried the princess wouldn’t recognize her after such a drastic yet necessary style change, so her gown for the main event – a gift from her date – was based off of the dress the princess had so kindly gifted her shortly after they first met.


Giddy from being so easily welcomed into the hall with the moniker of “Lady Lyleon,” Nokri was bashfully hiding a smile and most of her face behind a decorative folding fan. Another gift from her date, Jalil Muns. “This is fantastic,” he muttered in awe at the decorations and splendor. “The Tyndalls are most welcoming and hospitable,” Nokri mentioned as though this was obvious because she’s known them her whole life. She made an effort to be as graceful as possible and blend in with the crowd. After all, being among this this pompous high-class crowd is exactly what suited her. “I wonder where the princess could be? I have to greet her…”

Jalil went off for a moment to procure some drinks while Nokri scanned the crowd. No sign of the princess yet, but there were an unusually high number of furry guests at this ball. Disgusting, was this a zoo? There was only one animal in particular she wouldn’t mind seeing, but what were the odds? As Jalil returned with drinks, Nokri lost her appetite watching a tiger drink *with his tail* of all things. She audibly “tsk”’d and set her drink down. “How about a dance?” she suggested, taking her date’s arm while side-eyeing the tiger with atrocious manners.


**Linn Amie Landcaster (Bill)** - *2019-06-13*


The pairs dance around the floor, well into the next song uninterrupted. Thankfully the dancing doesn't push any awkward combinations together, at least until the third song begins.

The dance requires the passing of partners, and towards the center of the floor a pair of dignitaries hand off their wives to each other. From their dress, anyone familiar with Calloran royalty would know they align with the Torshan and Etrinan political parties. This exchange goes smoothly enough, until the Torshan man stops dead in his tracks.

"Do you not know how to dance, or do you do me the disrespect of not holding my hand on purpose?" He says, louder than he should. His own wife and the husband of the woman in question step over immediately.

"My wife is not to be bullied good sir." the Etrian noble starts, stepping beside his wife. "Your new neighbors seem to be rubbing off on your manners." he adds with a digging tone.

"And your old neighbors seem quite comfortable with you joining them on their high horse." the Torshan starts. The wives, truly the saviors of these men's careers, quickly whisper to their respect partners that they are attracting attention and should take for the bar. The two men share a piercing glance despite their words.

(ooc: These two will listen to their wives, though I'm not writing that part yet in case anyone wishes to intervene.)


**Afina Tyndall (Georgia)** - *2019-06-15*


Afina breathed a sigh of relief as a familiar song began to play. She recognized it as the one where individuals would often switch partners, a gesture meant to reflect the unity and shared experiences of Callorian people. Afina forced a smile at Kieron. “It seems we must part until later, sir,” she stated, breaking away from Kieron’s hold before he had a moment to protest. He stumbled backwards, and Afina hesitated as she watched him bump into a seemingly familiar face. She quickly dismissed it. _They’re just a look-alike, there’s no way any of my invites actually reached their intended guests..._ she thought. _And there’s no time to consider reunions, Kieron has used my last ounce of patience_.

The princess wove through the crowd, putting space between herself and the Laeran knight. She could almost hear the boastful noble already introducing himself, with his overused “Afina and I are _well acquainted_, you know” speech. Afina watched as Callorians handed off their partners between each other, with friendly smiles and shaken hands. Spouses winked at each other as they separated, promising to return. Young singles awkwardly bowed at each other, before turning to look for a new partner. Afina couldn’t help but smile contentedly as all went according to plan; The purpose of the dance was coming to fruition. Perhaps the Callorians would remember the importance of unity once more.


Suddenly breaking from her reverie, Afina realized she had neglected to choose a new partner. She glanced backwards at the way she had come; Kieron had finished speaking to the individual he had bumped into, and was walking back towards her, a disgruntled look on his face. _Oh, please,_ Afina thought scanning the crowd in front of her for an alternative. _Any_ alternative.

A flash of red hair caught Afina’s eyes, and she turned her attention towards the tiger laguz. The man looked uncomfortable, like he had clearly come to the banquet alone. Or, even worse, lost his partner. The princess did not hesitate to glance back at her pursuer, strutting up to the formally-dressed Kissaelain.

“Hello sir. Afina Tyndall, princess of Laera, of the kingdom Callora. I welcome you to my family’s estate. Might you do me the honor of this dance?” she asked, glancing back at Kieron. Noticing that she was now occupied, the knight stopped in his tracks, and sheepishly began searching for a new dance partner as the couples stepped in time with the song. The laguz’s bright yellow eyes looked between Kieron and herself. “Worry not, it is customary for one to dance with a--as it would be-- _stranger_ for this particular song,” she explained, gesturing towards the crowd dancing around them before offering her hand. “And so?”


**Tikur (Kurtis)** - *2019-06-24*


Tikur adjusted his clothes, a nice black suit with a royal blue coat, it had been a long while since he had worn anything fanciful. He sighed "At least the tournament sponsor was kind enough to lend me some clothing, though a bit snug". As he glanced over his reflection in the mirror he reflected over the past couple days. He had gotten an invitation to a local doubles tournament from an old rival from back home. They had been roaming around, like himself, partner-less and lost. It was a hard fought few days but in the end they were victorious. The prize was 2 tickets and various accoutrement to a party at the Tyndall's.


*Knock Knock* The sound snapped Tikur out of his trance. Quickly he responded "Yes, hello?". A familiar and comforting voice responded "May I come in?" "Absolutely." Tikur smiled and turned to face the door, now opened, to see how his doubles partner had  fared. He let out a low whistle, Tikur had to admit she was striking. Aleja Winebrand, The Iron Rose, usually covered in impenetrable armour now decked in a handsome velvet maroon suit. "You really clean up nicely." He remarked, feeling slightly jealous at her form fitting suit. "Vell you have to give ze people vhat they vant." She jested, taking one of her arena power stances to emphasize her point. Tikur rolled his with a smile on his face, she was something else, a powerhouse with or without a sword in hand. "Shall ve ajourn to ze party? Or du you need more time to pretty yourself?" She asked with a wink. "I'm as ready as I'll be" Tikur replied "Just been a long time since this sort of thing, last time..was well...you know." She gave him a sympathetic nod and clasped him on the shoulder "I understand my friend, but now it is time to drink and bury our vorries." Cheekily adding, " And mabey vind some beautiful ladies to briighten zat mood eh?" Tikur put his arm over her shoulder, chuckling he said "Sounds like a plan, but one that may fare better for you than I." With a wide roughish smile she started pulling him out of the room.


They made their way down through the wonderful accomadtions, that were part of the prize, and out to the street. A small but regal carriage awaited to take them to the party. Tikur boarded the carriage, with a small push from Aleja, and soon they were on their way. As they made their way to the party they discussed many things, as they hadn't had time before the tournament to really catch up. Eventually they arrived, with a knock on the side from the coachman they exited the carriage. Aleja slid her arm around Tikur as they strode into to the hall. "This is where the fun begins" she said quietly with an impish grin, as she grabbed a drink from a passing server. Tikur mimicked her smile and did the same, ready to see what the night brought.


**Chengu Tiaowen (Erik)** - *2019-07-20*


Chengu stood there in disbelief, speechless and confused. Princess? *The* princess? No… He was a nobody. Why would she select him of all people? He noticed that she looked a bit anxious, occasionally looking behind her as she introduced herself. Looking past her, he noticed a man attempting to make his way through the crowd towards her. He was dressed in military garb with colors matching that of the princess. Chengu looked back at the young woman of royalty before him, understanding that something was awry and she was trying to avoid this man for some reason.

He swallowed the last mouthful of champagne, placing the glass on an empty tray as another waiter passed by him. Thinking back to the “gentleman lessons” his mother taught him when he was a child, he tried to remember how to address a lady of such high stature.

“Your highness, it would be an honor.” He bowed and tenderly took the hand she was offering him.

They made their way towards the other couples, Chengu studying the other men leading their partners in dance, trying to quickly learn the proper dancing etiquette. When they found a place to begin dancing, Chengu placed his hand on her waist while the other held her hand. He felt her place her hand on his shoulder. She hadn’t slapped him, so it seemed like he was doing things right so far.

They began to sway, trying to find the correct tempo until finally they were off, dancing along with the rest of the crowd. Chengu looked down at the attractive princess nervously, feeling the alcohol starting to ease that nervousness a bit. Trying to break the ice and awkward silence, he smiled and asked, “To what do I owe the pleasure of dancing with the princess of Laera? Is this truly a customary dance with a stranger, or perhaps an escape from a bad date?” He raised an eyebrow, smiling and chuckling flirtatiously at her.


**Tom (DM)** - *2019-07-31*


Faun went to sit after sharing a lovely dance with his subordinate (although she hardly acted the part, they never truly had that kind of relationship). He felt a sharp and firm tug on his sleeve. San’s sudden resistance had him whirling about to face her with a puzzled look. She eyed him seriously. It was time for him to confront himself. He stood there for what felt like a full minute. She was right of course. She usually was.


His gaze softened to a smile, “Okay, okay San I concede.” She nodded firmly and smiled and went to go sit down to wait for him, but instead getting caught up in conversation with another young girl.


Faun wandered the crowd with anticipation desperately looking for the staple long blonde hair. He had gazed into and lost himself in her long locks many times, there was no way he’d miss it. Then he saw it and slowly approached, it was her. She was turned about, but he knew it.


She caught him approaching, "Ah just in time for the partner switch!” The woman acted like she knew him... but she did not. She was beautiful and reminded him so much of her, but she was clearly twice his age. He put one hand around her waist. Before he knew it they started to dance. He noticed his breathing finally stabilizing while his heart was still beating out of his chest. Elfriede of house Faun knew the movements, but his look of absolute confusion betrayed his composure.

“I didn't Catch your name sir knight? I’ve never seen an Eraian quite so flustered before, did I catch you off guard? I had thought it bold that you approached I, or... perhaps you are simply beside yourself that your dancing with the Queen of Laera? Please, I beg do not let it bother you.” He felt his legs go weak and he swallowed hard. *I. Am. a moron.*

“...I am... Knight Lieutenant Elfriede Faun. I am honored your highness.”


**Linn Amie Landcaster (Bill)** - *2019-07-31*


Kieron steps up to Afina, pushing her and her Kissaelain partner apart.  He glares at the Laeran princess, ignoring Chengu.

"Come here." he bites, clearly distracted. Afina can see that he's not actually looking at her as he speaks to her, instead he's looking at the center of the dance floor. He pays Chengu no mind and leads Afina up the stairs. On the way he passes the man he was speaking to while Afina was dancing, the two share a nod and the other man leaves the ballroom.

Kieron looks down over the balcony, the floor still bustling with busy people. He brings Afina beside him with an arm around her waist.

"You wanted to see dark magic didn't you? I'm going to show you exactly what kind of power it can hold." There's an unfamiliar, feral grin on his face as he focuses on the center of the room. "Friends of mine... They found out your Daddy has a secret. He's hiding a power underneath the castle and they wanted to bring it out. The party was a perfect chance to get access to the chamber. They told me we'll see the effects of it momentarily."

Kieron turns to Afina. "Isn't it exciting? Not knowing what kind of power is coming?" This is dark magic. An eternal gamble against the power you try to wield, trying to control it least it overpowers you. See?"

At his cue, a mist begins to flow into the room from the center of the floor. No one seems to notice the mist until it has an ankle high pool at everyone on the dance floor's feet. There's a crumbling sound as a pounding thud echos from the center of the floor. New cracks appear in the center of the floor, and mist shoots from it like a geyser.


People notice now. A noble is close to the geyser and is quickly consumed, only to scream as it consumes his form. The mist around him is thick enough to be a fog, and the scream continues for a moment before the fog dissipates into the less thick mist. More of the fog pockets form near cracks in the floor.

The party goers are looking around, confused as the first floor is now coated in mist with pockets of fog around it. The doors open and various people enter, some guests but also staff and guards who really shouldn't be in the ballroom. Those on the dance floor who can see these newcomers catch a glance of their eyes; their pupils have a mist over them, giving them white eyes.

The newcomers stop walking and start running towards the guests of the party, and all hell breaks loose. In a quick glance you can see the clouded people forcing others towards the fog patches, or trying to hold down the party guests. The chaos quickly begins to spread throughout the room, clouded people approaching all of you on the lower floor.

Kieron looks over the chaos with his grin widening. "Isn't this wonderful Afina? Look at the chaos sewn. What your Father tried to hide from the world. This is a power to be harness and used, and yet he left in the basement, forgotten." He tries to lead Afina beside him as he makes for the second floor exit. "Come with me, and I'll protect you. Keep you from harm, as my lady. I need to meet the rest of my people downstairs to get the sword, then we can go and I can claim the power I deserve."


**Aldus Larian (Jess)** - *2019-08-01*


Aldus looks on incredulously as a young man, who seemed to have been the princess’s companion when they first arrive manhandles her quite roughly.

“I *do not* like him” He notes to Vesper as the pair stand frozen in their previous dancing position.

He’s about to make a move to intervene when the man starts almost *dragging* the seemingly unwilling princess up the stairs that overlook the dance floor. He watches as the brunette man’s face twists into something dark, something menacing. He listens on as the man prattles on about dark magic and its wonders.

“What’s he on about?” Vesper asks curiously, not able to hear quite clearly with their human ears. But thankful they have him to relay the message to them.

“What the-?” The pair of them say in unison as fog begins to drift up from the floor.

“Breathing this cannot be good.” Aldus laments as he looks frantically around him for options. His eyes settle on the table’s napkins he begins to unravel them unceremoniously, letting silverware clink and clatter to the floor. Vesper seems to understand where his train of thought is going and begins to do the same at another one of the round tables. Together, the duo hand out napkins to the party-goers around them, taking turns to tie on of the thick cloths around their own faces as they go.  Aldus directs others around him to follow suit, he isn't sure how much, if at all this will help but he has to hope.


**Afina Tyndall (Georgia)** - *2019-08-01*


Afina stared at Kieron in dumbfounded silence. _This absolute imbecile..._ she thought. _Kieron can be dumb, but I didn’t think he would be THAT dumb. I cannot even dignify that with a response._ As the Laeran knight pushed her towards the exit, Afina stopped him in his tracks, eyebrows knit and shoulders tense as she stared at him headlong. Her blue eyes examined his face; Kieron’s expression betrayed no remorse. _And to think, you believe yourself worthy to represent my people in Laeran blue_, she thought, gaze trailing down to the knight’s chest. The princess closed her eyes and sighed, one hand trailing from Kieron’s chest to his shoulders.

“Kieron, I just… think that…” the princess began, batting her lashes at the dark mage. Kieron raised an eyebrow incredulously, a small smirk playing on his face as he watched the princess. Afina slipped a hand beneath the flowing fabric of her dress, fingers grasping the smooth leather binding of her spellbook strapped to her thigh. The princess giggled lightly, ducking her head away from the knight, whispering a few words under her breath.

“Yes, Afina?” Kieron inquired, taking a half step forward and trying to peer at the princess’ hidden face. In an instant, a white line appeared between the two Laerans. Kieron’s eyebrows knitted in confusion, before the line condensed into a halo surrounding the traitorous knight. Afina lifted her head to analyze her work, mouth still speaking the foreign words of light magic as she backed away. Kieron’s expression slowly shifted from confused to bewildered, as he fumbled to escape the blast. But he accomplished no such feat. In an instant, a geyser of light swallowed him whole.


A moment later, the light faded, and the knight had been reduced to a kneel, breathing heavily. “I think it is shameful that you dare wear the colors of this nation with pride, traitor,” Afina declared, blue eyes flashing maliciously as her hands grasped her spellbook. “You’ll be tried aptly for your crimes against Laera.” The princess turned her back to the knight, the screams of party guests reverberating off the walls of the stone ballroom. Other geysers of light and fire shot through the air from the chaos of the ballroom. _Master and Mother,_ she thought fondly, before she saw a flash of red on the stairway. The princess stood defensively, one hand grasping an incandescent ball of light.

Afina relaxed as she recognized the person wandering up the stairway. _My dance partner… he was concerned for my well-being?_ she thought, lowering her hand, the light fizzling out. _He was intelligent enough to surmise that I was trying to escape an obnoxious lover. He must have realized that something was awry._

“Sir?” Afina asked, peering over at the tiger laguz. She paused only a moment to greet him, before the sound of shuffling feet caught her attention. In a flash of Laeran blue, Kieron stumbled through the second-floor exit and disappeared down a hallway. Afina thought to give him chase, but realized such an endeavor would be futile. She had to focus on the welfare of her party guests.

Afina exhaled angrily. “He will be caught later. In the meantime, we should turn our attention to the attendees,” she declared, rushing to the bannister. “Do you have any ideas?”


**Chengu Tiaowen (Erik)** - *2019-08-02*


Chengu was hesitant to answer the princess’s question. He did not want to give some sob story about his recent living conditions, nor did he want to blow his cover by not knowing a single thing about the land of Torshan…

Before he could even really conceive a plausible response, he felt an elbow rudely knock him away from his new acquaintance.

“Oi!” Chengu grunted as he saw a man in blue grab the princess by the arm and lead her away. The same man she was clearly trying to avoid. *Something’s not right…* he thought to himself.

Chengu pushed his way through the crowd of people still dancing merrily, eyes locked on the man leading the princess away and up to the balcony. He passed a nearby table a swiped a knife, slipping it up his sleeve, concealing it so as not to look threatening. *Just in case… It’s not much, but better than nothing I guess.*

Suddenly, an ominous mist began pouring up from the floor. Screams started to erupt by the unsuspecting guests. Chengu’s golden eyes darted up to the balcony where he saw the man in blue clearly casting some sort of dark spell. He dashed up the winding staircase, his coattails fluttering behind him as he made his way up to the staircase.

Just as he reached the top, he saw a flash of blinding light. As the light subsided, he saw the princess standing over the man, the man down on his knees, clearly having been hit by that blast. *Wowza!* Chengu thought to himself as he watched a ball of light fade into the princess’s palm.


She turned and looked at him, his eyes meeting hers for a brief moment before Chengu saw the culprit behind the mist shuffling and scurrying away out the exit.

“Your highness!” Chengu shouted, pointing behind her, but it was too late. The man was gone. The princess told Chengu not to worry about him but to focus on the guests.

He looked down and saw several people starting to grab napkins to cover their faces as they began to evacuate led by two individuals, one with a snow white ponytail and another with auburn braids. Chengu pointed towards them and looked at the princess, “Those two seem to have the right idea! Let’s follow their lead and get the rest of these people out of here!” He reached into the breast pocket of his jacket with his tail, pulling out the decorative pocket square and tossing it to his royal companion. “Here, take this and follow me,” he said as he covered his mouth and nose with the inside of his elbow and took a few steps back down the stairs before hopping onto the polished railing and sliding the rest of the way down, his coattails rippling behind him as his tail stabilized his balance.


**Tom (DM)** - *2019-08-05*


The awkward dance was cut off by a cloud flooding the room suddenly. Faun instinctively pulled the queen away from the smoke. “I’m sorry! Come your highness!” He glanced back as they stumbled away and watched her guards be consumed and enveloped by the mist. Once surrounded never even attempted to get out. Poison?!

Faun pulled Lady Tyndall over to where San was last and to his relief she stood out if the mist and locked her gaze on him.

“San!” He hugged her tightly, glad to see she was okay and she reciprocated. They quickly broke the embrace, “Please watch her majesty, and stay out of the gas! I believe it to be poison!” Faun turned about and instinctively reached at his hip for a sword that was not there. He gritted his teeth and glanced about, most of the room being obscured.

“My apologies for the rough treatment Lady Tyndall, where is your daughter?! She shook her head and frowned heavily, for she was not keeping track of her before chaos. He turned to the mist and shouted into it, “Afina!!” but his voice just echoed into the ensuing chaos and was drowned out. He resigned in that moment, if she wasn't in the mist... She can take care of herself. He glanced about at several people and laguz attempting to get everyone out. “We should join them Miss Tyndall.” Both San and the queen nodded in unison, both of them swallowing their fear admirably. Elfriede glanced about once more, he needed a weapon. He could feel it… something in the air?... a vibration almost. He looked to where the guards were enveloped and saw a simple long sword lying in some light mist just a few strides away. He held his breath and took the chance, quickly running in grabbing it and running out.


The sword felt heavy and unbalanced for the slender knight, but it would have to do. He looked to the queen, her face overwhelmed with confusion and sadness. This event would surely ruin any parley to unify... her daughter and husband missing. And to San, she looked... determined? He looked to her side where she grasped a dining knife so hard her knuckles were turning white. She dipped her head and muttered, “Lets go.” and the group shuffled out of the hall.


**Chengu Tiaowen (Erik)** - *2019-08-08*


Chengu landed, running over to the nearest table to grab napkins to start handing to nearby guests. He looked over towards the center of the ballroom and noticed that people were being forced towards the heavier clouds of mist… by Laeran guards!

*That can’t be right…* Chengu thought to himself. He focused his golden eyes on the guards and noticed their eyes were glazed over with mist. Somehow this mist was controlling them, and if he had to guess, they were trying to do the same thing to the other guests. Innocent guests.

Flashbacks to the attack on his home started replaying in his mind. The smoke, the screams, the looks of terror on people’s faces. This triggered something in Chengu that hadn’t happened in a long time. His pupils contracted as his heart began to race, the alien yet familiar sensation of transformation beginning. His clothes began to vanish as his body became bulkier and hairier in a flash of brilliant orange. He let out a scream that morphed into a loud roar until there stood a full tiger, drawing the attention of everyone remaining in the room.

Chengu sprung into action, running towards a group of mis-tified guards dragging innocent guests towards the thick geysers of smoky mist. He pounced, leaping towards them and knocking them back, making sure not to harm anyone in the process. His intention was not to kill the guards, but to just knock them back enough to release their captives, allowing them to escape outside.


**Afina Tyndall (Georgia)** - *2019-08-08*


Afina stared over the edge of the balcony, surveying the chaos. The attackers were barraging from one side of the ballroom, as party patrons fled to another. The princess had to create as much distance as she could between the hostiles and her party guests.

Catching the tiger laguz’s pocket square, the princess pressed it over her nose and mouth, while a free hand propped open her spell book. _We have no idea how this mist works, it would be best not to inhale it,_ she thought, hurriedly following her laguz comrade down the stairs. _Though this does make communication a tad difficult._

Reaching the ground floor, Afina lifted the cloth from her face. “Everyone! Evacuate through the main door! Cover your faces and we will find you in front of the castle!” she yelled, though the cacophony of screams all but drowned out her voice. Thankfully, the crowd already seemed to be heading in such a direction.

Afina pushed against the barrage of fleeing attendees to reach those grappling with the misted. The princess spotted one guard dragging a woman by her hair, and a ball of light flashed in Afina’s book. It struck the possessed man, and he reached up to hold his blind, blistering face as the noble woman escaped his grasp with a yelp. Another two guards began to rush the Laeran. In one fluid motion, a blade of light sliced through their torsos, and the misted fell to the ground in convulsions. The princess lowered the cloth from her face to catch a breath, another ball of light gathering in her book as she scanned the room.


A sudden roar broke Afina’s concentration. She turned to find its source, as the room was beginning to empty of party patrons. A flash of orange fur shown above the heads of fleeing guests, and Afina froze. She scarcely dared to breathe, even as her knees gave out beneath her. Afina’s tomes hit the floor with a dull clap, shooting off the ball of light she has conjured into a nearby pillar. The room swayed in front of her, and Afina began to feel a choking nausea in her chest.

And then he appeared. Brown fur, matted and covered in patches of dark red. Sharp teeth bared and dripping with blood. Thin, white scars where ears should have been. Suddenly the room was empty, just her and the wolf. The princess’ eyes burned with the threat of tears as she watched him straighten and turn towards her. His amber eyes met hers, and the princess could feel a deep, dull pain shoot across her right side. Before she could react, an unknown figure grabbed her arm to shake her from the illusion.

“Come on, we have to go!”


**Aldus Larian (Jess)** - *2019-08-19*


From behind him, Aldus can hear a familiar, authoritative voice issuing evacuation instructions just before a flash of light strikes down one of the possessed.

“That must be the Princess,” Vesper notes as they knot another napkin around an elderly woman’s face and shuffle her into the fray of people exiting the ballroom.

“What gave it away?” Aldus quips, “Was it the trademark ‘Royal’ voice of ‘listen to me’ or the-”

He’s interrupted by another flash as a bolt of slices two more converted guards. “Well, that.” he finishes motioning to the display of magical prowess.

An abrupt roar erupts through the ballroom, the noise carrying flawlessly through the expensive acoustics of the ballroom, reverberating to every ear on the floor as an impressive display of a Kissaelain transformation takes place on the now emptying dance floor. Aldus feels a pang of homesickness at the familiarity of it, but also a sense of awe at witnessing a transformed tiger laguz for the first time.


It would seem the Princess did not feel at all the same as him at witnessing this, as she quickly becomes near-catatonic at the sight of the tiger. Her eyes - far away from here, give away the fact that she is no longer in the ballroom - but in a place of dark thoughts not yet addressed. Instinct tells him this is not an effect of the mist.

Hurriedly but carefully, Aldus approaches the princess. “Princess Tyndal?” he tries to no avail.

“Princess!” He tries again, grabbing her arm gently but with a clear purpose. “Come on, we need to go!”

He offers her an arm of support as they exit the ballroom.

“Ves!” Aldus calls, “Grab me a glass of water for the Princess?”

“Sure thing!” They respond, hastily plucking a crystal glass from a table near on their way out.

Outside the ballroom, Aldus gently sits the Princess down, back supported by a wall. He pours a small amount of water onto a napkin dampening it somewhat before offering her the glass to sip from. He then hands her the damp cloth. “In case you need to cool off a bit.”


**Linn Amie Landcaster (Bill)** - *2019-12-09*


Aldus, Vesper, Afina exit the ballroom from the north entrance, while Elfriede, San, and Lady Tyndall exit from the south. The hall echoes with the sounds of people running and screaming around the various corners and doors. There's only a handful of people still in the corridor, besides yourselves.

The mist permeates the hallway completely, in fact even if you look into the ballroom you can no long see a place the fine mist does not reach. There's a single deep mist spot in the corridor, against the wall opposite the ballroom doors you exited from, basically centered between the two groups.

Lady Tyndall comes to her senses, given a moment to breath. "Where is... Where is Achelous? He must know what's going-going" she says, her voice devolving into a cough. It appears the mist is affecting her as she starts to sway, light headed.

A handful of soldiers round the corner, coming up to her immediately. "My Lady, we must see you to the exit!"

"Na-Not..." she hacks out, "Yet-" She's looking towards Elfriede, and beyond to the other group. "Ffind-" she manages to get out before another spell of coughing hits her.


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