Origami Around
gracie abrams
ojovivo
Lint Roller? I Barely Know Her
RMH
"I'm Dorothy Gale from Kansas"
I'd rather be in outer space đž
taylor price
Jar Jar Binks Fan Club
Monterey Bay Aquarium
No title available
cherry valley forever
KIROKAZE
Keni
we're not kids anymore.
Sade Olutola
đȘŒ
izzy's playlists!
hello vonnie
let's talk about Bridgerton tea, my ask is open
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@starzfield
Main muses
EX-MAFIOSO - FARMER - GAMER - THERAPIST
DEMON COOK - MINISTER - VAMPIRE - KILLER
PRINCE - MERMAID - ANGEL - CUTE ELF
EVIL KING - IDOL - SORCERESS - FIREFIGHTER
ANDROID - BODYGUARD - POLICEMAN - DEMONIST
Open starters masterlist
Scenarios/threads ideas
Incoming birthdays : June (Ingrid, 30) - July (15, Duncan) - July (31, Noah)
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RULES
Pending :
All Mobile muse links + resume :
"Yes, it's very peaceful, isn't it?" Noah's discomfort was so clear it was nearly tangible, so naturally Kier lingered in the room a moment longer than necessary.
The (almost) unfortunate thing was, this was one of the tamest rooms in all of Ochre Hall.
"... Mm, yes, well. Shall we continue?"
He led him out of the room and down a corridor, which was mostly clean outside of the occasional strewn clothing. The next room over was -- well.
"We have several incense rooms as well," Kier merely opened the door to this one, gesturing within for him to take a peek. "Different incense has different effects. Some act as aphrodisiac, for instance. This one has more hallucinatory effects for...freeing one's creativity. It's also wonderful for general catharsis, for those who keep emotions bottled up inside."
Within were a dozen or so people tripping out intensely. Two of them were on their hands and knees barking at each other like dogs. A few were laughing and crying uncontrollably. One was standing in the corner facing away from everyone, unsettling.
"All safe, mind you! We've not ever had anyone die," he chirped.
âI suppose, yes.â It wasnât entirely wrong, the atmosphere was rather peaceful, at least. But Noah was an heir. Itâd be a shame for his family honor if he was just fleeing from a little discomfort.
Maybe Kier tried to test him with this roomâŠ? The prince wasnât sure of anything anymore, and his voice was cautious as he spoke. âPlease lead the wayâŠâ
He also very much decided to comment on the fabrics on the floor. Nor notice them.
But if Noah thought the first room was the biggest shock and others would be a breeze compared to it⊠Oh how wrong he was.
Still, observing inside this new room, the blonde couldnât decide what to say or even how to feel. This was pretty far from his world, though he heard about nobles having this kind of activity.
There was no way in hell he could do that, though. That was going against every teaching he received about how an heir should act.
âI believe we would have heard about it if problems arose before.â Was what Noah decided to say in the end. Though there was a hint of curiosity, again this room was rather an uncomfortable sight for him. âIt is not something I can see myself doing, but it is not my place to judge, is it ?â Though, deep inside, he was very much judging the comedown.
Helena did not intend to try and escape, but the more dismissive this guy was at her chances, the more she wanted to try out of spite!
Still, she would have to wait and see.
Obviously, she couldn't spend the rest of her life here singing for just one guy. That would be such a waste of her talent!
Also, that dark magic spell? Super creepy. And weird. She was almost hesitant to take back her hair clip, but she did. As she fixed it back into her hair and he went on, she froze.
"--Wait a minute, ew! What do you mean my bedroom door can't be locked? That's not safe! I don't know who else is wandering around out here, in the place I've been kidnapped!"
She frowned and took the seat across from his desk, stubbornly folding one leg over the other.
"I am not going to sleep somewhere I cannot lock my door. That needs to be fixed immediately!"
He was truly unaware of how his attempts to make her avoid stupid (in his opinion) escape plans were getting counterproductive, but it wasnât sure Kaelus would have changed speech anyway.
However, the minister didnât miss her reaction to the magic he used. âIt wonât hurt you.â He stated, though of course there was little chance of her being convinced by that.
And considering he placed a tracking spell on it, just in case, maybe it was fair for Helena to not trust him. It wasnât like her trust was something the man was looking for anyway.
Her indignation was natural, except for the fact she apparently misunderstood him. But before he could clear things up⊠That woman stole his seat.
What was even going in the brain of this shameless singer ? Kaelus was too shocked to speak for a few seconds, watching her as if she was a new bird species he never saw before - a weird one, at that.
Eventually, he shook his head. âI already have one lord, I really donât need someone else giving me orders.â He pointed out, slightly annoyed now the shock passed. âAnd I just stated there are some crazy and weird people here, of course I won't leave your door unlocked. The spell I casted on your hair pin turned it into some kind of key, I just need to cast the spell on the door for the lock part. Itâs what I meant by it canât be locked yet.â
Well he said âcurrentlyâ, but that was the same, wasnât it ? âAnd Iâll do the same with the bathroom. Iâm the only one who will be able to enter any of those, and considering you stole my seat as if itâs the most natural thing in the world, I assume youâre not exactly scared of me.â
Then he walked to her, looming over her seated body with his arms crossed. âNow, I have work to finish, before going to put the lock spell on your door. So will you get yourself out of my seat, or will I have to make you ?â
Well, at least someone thought she was pretty. Helena frowned, watching him work. This felt anticlimactic for a kidnapping.
"I change my accessories often," she stated, sland took a few steps closer to the desk to see what he was doing. "And I'm surprised I am free to wander around at all!"
"You can use this." She took one of her hair clips out of her hair and offered it to him. "Also, what do I call you?"
How rude not to introduce yourself to a lady.
Usually, Kaelus would threaten people approaching his papers - there was some very confidential information in there - but it wasnât like this woman would leave any time soon.
A simple glance at her âsurpriseâ. âItâs not like youâll be able to leave anyway. And again, I advise you against walking somewhere other than this floor. If you gain the Lordâs favors enough that he officially orders punishment for whoever touches you, thatâll be different. But for now, your safety isnât assured.â
He took the hair clip, and when his gaze landed on it, he kind of spaced out, studying it without moving for way longer than needed for such a thing - then shook his head, free hand radiating with dark power as he used it to charm the pin.
When he gave it back, it looked perfectly normal though. âIâll have to put the spells on the three rooms's doors too, since currently I just open and close them for everyone.â
What to call him ? He actually pondered it. She would probably call his name - or whatever title he gave him - regularly, so he couldnât exactly pick anything⊠The minister sighed. âKaelus will do, I suppose.â He couldn't exactly decide how he felt about a stranger calling his name, but that'd still be better than 'minister' or whatever else he could think about. Or than that idiot who kept finding him ridiculous name...
His eyes caught on the piles of paper on his desk, and he frowned lightly before gazing at her.
âI have things to finish here first. You can already go check the bedroom if you wish, but keep in mind the door canât be locked currently. However I donât think anyone will wander around there today.â
Before her arrival, he already had a list of things to do, and now it got a few more items. Casting spells on the doors, planning clothes and meals for her, probably finding a maid of sort amon the minionsâŠ
Kaelus sighed deeply.
"Ah, of course! My apologies. I did not mean to offend."
So the Prince could speak up for himself. All worthy of noting. Kier smiled pleasantly and gestured for them to leave the parlor; they could always return here at the end.
"This way, then, Your Majesty."
He led him into the adjacent room, where someone was playing a jaunty little tune on some flute intstrument. The other occupants of the room were all draped over each other upon a variety of couches. No one was doing anything untoward at the moment, but the curtains had been drawn and everyone seemed to be enjoying eh performance.
"Firstly, I have quiet a few comfortable rooms meant for those who simply want to relax," he explained, gesturing to them and lowering his voice slightly. "For those who need to rest after their long journey or simply want to sleep off a bit too much partying, you see."
âNo offense taken, please worry not.â Oh, so this man just didnât know. It wasnât a big deal, Noah wouldnât blame him for it. Not everyone got so many etiquette lessons it became second nature, and to be fair despite Noah reading what he could about this nation, he may encounter facts he doesnât know about himself. Harmless mistakes from lack of knowledge should be forgiven easily.
The prince followed Kier, observing around them curiously as they walked. This room was not something Noah was used to seeing, the closeness of some of the guests a strange sight for the foreign royalty.
He knew of rooms you could relax during parties or balls, but those he saw before were usually a few separate rooms, and not for⊠Sleeping. âI⊠See.â Noah answered with a low voice as well, not sure how much of his confusion he should share. But other than peopleâs proximity, the room was actually nice, like the music. He was trying to not look at the people resting too much, under the feeling it wasnât proper to look. Which, if people were resting, was accurate. It was very hard to pretend he wasnât entirely comfortable with the unusual situation, but the prince was trying his best, refusing to request them to leave.
âWell, we can change that⊠I wouldnât mind if you escorted me to some events.â â Nunnally smiled warmly â âAt least the ones for which it would be considered appropriate to send you an invitationâŠâ â she didnât think Lukan would accept, but she still felt it was worth suggesting â âThough I assume youâd become disillusioned rather quickly by how boring most of it isâŠâ
âActually, I wonder if I know your friend, or rather, if Iâve met him in passingâŠâ â Nunnally laughed (again). Yes, she was curious, very much so, and she did want to know whom to avoid. Then again, if Lukan wished to make inquiries about her, it would be easy enough. Even if she and his friend did not know each other personally, everyone in her world knew of everyone else. There was almost no anonymity.
His next comment turned her laugh into spontaneous giggling, the kind that was difficult to stop.
âI think you are very right about that⊠There will always be someone who assumes youâre acting selfishly.â â she smiled, still trying to regain her composure â âThatâs something useful to remember.â â Nunnally glanced at her drink. The cup was almost empty. She was not sure whether he had noticed the same of his own, but when he suggested they move on, she nodded.
âOf course. I donât imagine shopping is something that interests you?â â she tilted her head. Imagining him in the clothes she liked. Truthfully, she would have liked to take him shopping one day and dress him a little more to her liking. Maybe one day. It was far too early for that â âBut we can most certainly go to the park. I like watching the swans there⊠They may even have cygnets this time of year.â
âButâŠâ â Nunnally hesitated â âHow much time do we really have?â
He raised an eyebrow, amused. âYou seem to think of me as quite the party-goer, but my hobbies are quite calm, some would even call it boring. I donât see why I would find those outings boring, and either way Iâm willing to give them a try.â
Now, that was an interesting question, Lukan bringing a hand to his chin as he weighed the possibility of it. âItâs not impossible, after all. I canât say what the odds are, but definitely a respectable amount. Those circles give great care to relations and social networks, donât they ? I wouldnât be entirely surprised if you met in the pastâŠâ
Some bubble light popped in his mind. âThat could be quite easy actually. Do you remember meeting a young man with light brown hair tied in a long braid ? Long enough to reach the bottom of his back ?â
It probably wasnât common, so if Nunnally saw this before, she may remember.
âShopping isnât among my favorites, but once in a while doesnât hurt. And I do need clothes sometimes. I do enjoy book shopping however, obviously.â He smiled, complice.
âI donât have a very busy agenda outside of work. I can definitely squeeze in one or two hours of park⊠Then Iâll have to go back and get ready, Iâm invited to a friendâs home. He can be insufferable, but his children and wife are lovely, it makes up for his character.â It was obvious he was joking about the insufferable part, though there was a bit of truth here as well.
âWe can go as soon as you wish, Mademoiselle.â Meaning when Lukan had the green light, he would go pay for both of them, before offering his arm in this old, gentleman way as they walked there.
I'm considering moving Tora and Zephyr to "On Request".
Which means, of course, that I will add muses to the main roaster to replace them.
â Yeah, you are. â March didn't care to baby her when it was obvious she did this to herself. She was a handful, there was no doubt about that. But it didn't mean he was going to leave her completely helpless on a farm that was practically falling apart.
At least she was taking a break. Kind of. It was obvious she was still thinking about work with the way she was scanning the landscape, and he had to step in front of her path to keep her from doing so. At this rate, she really was going to pass out if she wasn't careful.
â A bit of jerky... â He repeated, baffled by the sheer audacity to have admitted to eating practically nothing and calling it a meal. He couldn't believe it. He almost slapped his forehead from the shock, but eventually decided it wasn't worth the headache that was already building
She continued to babble on, talking about survival and welcoming his help, but right now, all he was focused on was getting her something to eat.
â Get up. â Was all he said, his arms crossed until he eventually unraveled them to hold out his hand towards her instead, giving her assistance to pull her up onto her feet.
â I don't care about all that right now. It'll be fine. What I want to focus on, is getting you something to eat, okay? â He huffed, obviously displeased and irritated, but still willing to give out a helping hands despite himself.
â We're going to the Inn to get something to eat. A REAL proper meal! â He glared at her, as if anticipating her attempt to talk him out of it. If money was an issue for her and was worried about putting the tesserae down to feed herself, he added, â My treat. You're in my hands now, and if something happens to you, I won't hear the end of it. So get up and let's go. â
Surely Reina would be working the kitchen by now, and she was surely the type to make sure no one went hungry in her presence. March was counting on it.
She blinked as her path of view was blocked, and laughed heartedly. Johann could only feel giddy at the obvious, adamant will to prevent her from overworking herself. She was still more used to people wanting to work her to the bones rather than having her taking a break for her health, so it was a sweet experience.
âSorry, sorry.â Hard to believe her when she was chuckling still, but she was sincere.
âYesâŠ?â Oh, right, that wasnât a proper meal, was it ? It wasnât like she could help it, though. Johann didnât have the money, period. She was counting every coin left, hoping to have enough until she could actually earn money.
Maybe she was looking a bit too confused, because March reached to help her to stand. The blonde gratefully grabbed his hand to get on her feet, beaming a smile. âThank you !â
There was really no way, in any world, that she would feel bad from his attitude, when the man just basically said he was worried about her health. And that his work mattered less than her well being. âYouâre very kind.â
Maybe that was a strange thing to say to someone looking so grumpy, but that was how she felt. It was also quite a refreshing attitude, pretty new to her.
His glare was only met with a large, giddy smile, and she nodded obediently - still grinning. No one âforcedâ her to eat for her sake before. It wasnât bad.
Johann didnât have time to worry about money, March taking the matter in his own hands with a few words.
âOkay, but I will pay you back later.â She promised anyway, considering it was the right thing to do. The blacksmith was already doing so much, and if she could accept help and having someone pay for her meal as a necessary evil, it didnât sit right by her to just⊠Take.
âLetâs go then, Iâm curious about the cooking there !â She looked at him with expectant eyes, having only a vague idea where the Inn was. And it made more sense for March to lead the way - Johann looked kind of some golden retriever, eager to go for a walk. Not that she was aware of that. This day was quite that far, and it was promising to get even better !
Lulu watched as the large Rock Pokemon rumbled and grumbled to consciousness, setting their large eyes directly upon her. While they definitely had the size advantage, that hardly accounted for anything in a one on one fight. The Lucario didn't even react when the Onix vocalized its annoyance.
Daedra remained in back with Niel to observe. Unlike her Pokemon, the redhead did have a bit of an uneasy expression on her features. Though, not necessarily for the reason one might expect.
"Try not to go overboard, Lulu," her trained offered in warning.
The Aura Pokemon casually glanced over her shoulder in assurance before squaring up for business. Only for the Onix to coil themselves back up in dismissal. Now that--- had Lulu reacting. The canine's features scrunched in outright anger from the audacity! To be brushed off like she was a tiny Joltik(though no offense to the tiny electric types), namely when she counted herself as a Champion.
Lulu's aura readers perked up and bristled. She might have attempted firmer verbal persuasion, on behest of her trainer, but not anymore. If the Rock type thought her something to ignore, then Lulu was determined to be a nuisance.
Holding her two paws out, the Lucario drew them back to her one side, leaving a gap between her inner pads. Immediately, a blip of light formed within the space, quickly growing and expanding as Lulu concentrated. Without warning or command, she fired the purple sphere of energy right at the Onix, smacking them right at the crest.
The Aura Sphere, though smaller than expected, had enough punch that sent the dosing Rock Pokemon tumbling into an ungraceful heap farther down the tunnel. A large plume of dust billowed up from where they collided and it wasn't long before the Onix was up and shaking themselves from the shock of the blow.
Silhouetted in the dusty mist, the loomed once again, before setting an angry glare and a roar at the pitiful creature that bothered them. Now the Rock Pokemon was mad!! All it wanted a nap-- and now this!
They'd bring the tunnel down! They shatter the very ceiling on all of them! They'd grab and constrict and crush thier---
A burst of energy suddenly darted right passed the side of the Onix's head, crashing into a nearby wall. The force of it left a noticeable crater in the stone, now weakened and crumbling.
All thought and action from the Rock Pokemon dulled.
Evaluating their circumstances, the Onix took an executive decision and.... retreated. Whipping around, they immediately dove their face into a patch of sandy floor and dug, dug, dug away!
The blue creature was small, but clearly had the speed and type advantage well over the Onix. Best to retreat and run away, so to do battle another day!
The passageway tremored a bit as the large Pokemon buried itself through some of the flooring, but went still in a few moments. Once seeing the way clear, Lulu jerked her head with small bark, before brushing her large paws together to clear the dust from them.
What an annoyance!
With the trouble settled, in a manner that Daedra didn't count too poorly, the redhead turned to Niel once again.
"There's no need to turn back now," she informed him happily. Clearly not a care in the world again! "I knew Lulu could handle it, and we barely had to fight them! Though, I hope all the shaking and noise hasn't bothered your bugs~"
Fascinated, Niel observed all the details of the way Lulu dealt with the pokemon way larger than her. Types and weaknesses had no secrets for the android, and he always enjoyed the constance, as well as this chemistry that caused a power to be stronger than another, in an expected display.
He caught on to some words the angry Onyx was expressing, and his expression turned into a light frown at the idea of a possible crumbling of the ceiling on them. His coding didnât require him to protect pokemons at all cost, but it did ask to protect humans.
At the threat, part of his brain immediately started to analyze the possible outcome and what he could do to protect Daedra if needed. It looked like her pokemon would protect her, but he couldnât rely on this sole hypothesis. He could probably make her a shield thanks to his own body, butâŠ
It would immediately reveal his nature.
Thankfully, none of this happened, and the usual symptoms brought by the fear of his secret being exposed vanished quickly as the big pokemon left. It was also a very positive outcome that they could follow their exploration.
âThank you to both of you. You really are a wonderful and welcome help.â He bowed once to both of them.
âItâs true that this is the kind of thing that bothers them. However, they would-...â His brain and speech cut down suddenly, processes turning at full speed for a second, running calculationsâŠ
Before the scientist suddenly dashed into the now fred corridor, not even looking behind as he ran at a speed more fitting a daily runner than a lab rat.
He stopped once in a room, immediately checking his surroundingsâŠ
âHere.â Niel gasped, nearly cheerful. A few little orange fellows were escaping a crack, spooked by the tremors of the ground the âfightâ and the Onyx caused. The scientist immediately worked on catching as many as possible⊠His comrades forgotten for now.
The Dark Lord. That sounded like a stupid title. Of course, Helena knew better than to say so. She eyed the man who would be looking after her. He spoke like one of her Uncle's yes men.
"Do you think I'm a fool?' she demanded, gesturing around. "This is clearly a large operation. I am merely one woman. I've no intention of trying to escape unless I face abuse."
She eyed him suspiciously, as if accusing him and/or his 'Dark Lord' of considering it.
"I will sing for whoever asks me to. I just think it dramatic to go so far as to kidnap me!"
He was pretty glad to hear she didnât intend to flee - though it only showed by his feature relaxing a little. Of course, she could be lying, but with the way she presented things, it didnât seem to be the case.
âAbuse ?â Kaelus thought about it, wondering if that could actually happen, before shaking his head. âI doubt thatâs the plan. The Lord only torture his ennemies, so you should be safe unless you attempt to attack him - an idiotic move, by the way. And he asks to be called the Lord, or the Dark Lord, of course he is dramatic. Though I think he just saw it as more practical.â
Speaking that way about the Lord didnât bother him, though he avoided doing it when the Lord himself was present. He started looking for some papers, since he was warned at the last second - like always - he didnât have time to prepare for her arrival.
âYou can consider yourself as some⊠Priced possession, or treasure, whichever you like. Since youâre pretty, the Lord will want you to stay that way as much as possible, meaning no one should hurt youâŠâ
This time Kaelus looked at her, a warning in his eyes. âBut this is a dangerous place. A lot of people follow the Dark Lord because it allows them to freely cause chaos. And some are stupid enough to hurt you. So donât wander randomly.â Some were just stupid but there were even ones who would bother her and would be able to get away with it. For instance, to the Lord, she was worth less than a General. Or than Kaelus himself.
Kaelus may be one of the only Lordâs servants who was above Generals, in matter of worth.
Now, where could he even put her� Actually, Kaelus knew. Considering all the possibilities, and the associated risks⊠He sighed.
âThereâs a free room next to mine, I suppose it will have to do.â Easier to keep an eye on her, and most people avoided the area. His own room was right next to the office they were currently in - though at this point, he could have as well asked for a bed right in the office - and the free one was on the other side of said bedroom.
âThereâs also a bathroom at the end of the hall, currently itâs locked so only I use it but Iâll give you a pass-...â The minister started to rummage through drawers, annoyed, before looking at Helena.
âDo you have perhaps an item you keep on you at all times ? So I can turn it into a pass.â
Meaning only him and her will be able to enter the two bedrooms and the bathroom. He didn't care - if she was foolish enough to try to attack him, he was more than able to defend himself. And if one would get away with damaging her, it'd be the Dark Lord's only minister.
Not that he wished to, but he did warn her. It was in her hands now.
The princess stood there frozen. Her blue eyes were wide, her fists clenched tightly in the fabric of her dress. Her lips remained slightly parted as she stared at the king without truly seeing him. His words crashed over her like a storm breaking across a cloudless sky: a storm she had never expected.
Nunnally didn't understand. She couldn't. There was never meant to be a real ball?
âThere... was never meant to be a real ball?â â she echoed, blinking in disbelief. She could have accepted a modest celebration. She could have understood fewer guests, a quieter evening, something far less lavish than the grand balls she had known. But Nunnally had never imagined that LĂ©o hadn't meant a ball at all. Merely... some sort of private gathering.
A dull ache settled heavily in her chest, extinguishing every trace of the excitement she had carried only moments before. Nunnally had allowed herself to believe that perhaps her fate would not be so terrible. She had imagined this castle, this frozen kingdom, coming back to life, if only for one enchanted evening. She had pictured music echoing through the halls, gowns shimmering beneath crystal chandeliers, laughter warming walls that had long forgotten joy. Instead...
Nothing.
The princess knew how foolish she was being. She wanted to cry over a dance. Over a ball. Over a gown she would never have the chance to wear. The realization embarrassed her almost as much as it hurt. Only the shame of breaking down before him kept the tears from spilling over. And yet, why should it matter? There was no-one else to witness her humiliation. No court. No servants. Still...
Still Nunnally would rather LĂ©o saw her naked than saw her cry. How terribly unfair he was!
âI...â â she began, her voice catching before years of royal etiquette forced it steady once more â âI do not take it personally, Your Majesty.â â every word was measured with painstaking care â âIndeed... I was foolish. I overstepped.â â the princess lowered herself into a deep curtsy.
âThere is nothing left for me but to beg your forgiveness... for wasting your time.â â Nunnally didnât look at LĂ©o. Nor did she rise. In that moment, the last of her hopeful illusions quietly crumbled away. She was not a guest. She was not a future queen. She was simply a hostage who had mistaken her cage for a palace.
So she had expected a real ball, with many guests, just like high society usually did�
How could she think itâd ever happen ?
LĂ©o knew his sister wouldnât mind, since she never went to a ball before anyway, and didnât like nobles much anyway - again, Nunnally benign an exception, but it was thanks to her kind nature and the fact she didnât look down on the twins.
But it didnât mean LĂ©o would, or even could welcome many strangers in his own place.
âWho do you even believe would come ?â It was a theoretical question, to him. âOnly those who want to kill me. Others are either afraid, or despise me - or both.â
Foolish she was indeed, but the King didnât insist on it. It seemed like just the prospect of not having the ball was crushing her already. No need to add to that.
âItâs fine. Donât apologize for that, itâs pretty useless. At least you meant well and all.â
It was still uncomfortable to see her like that. And he was pretty sure Aria would give him an earful, but⊠His sister knew they couldnât allow this ball to happen the way Nunnally wished.
Was it really necessary, anyway ? He became King to have the power to protect himself and his sister, not to get in cahoots with nobles.
In the end⊠â...Iâm not a real King, do you realize ?â
He looked at her, with some tiredness in his eyes and voice. âI just have the power of one. I donât even really rule like one - ministers deal with everything, and report to me. I only intervene if I suspect theyâre doing something fishy.â
They all obeyed out of fear. âYou speak about how it works to rule a kingdom and all that⊠But all I do is threaten ministers and monitor them. I know nothing about etiquette, noble family, history - everything they teach nobles. If I invited all these high asses here, and letâs forget about potential murder, Iâd just offer myself as a target for all their gossip and laughs. Because Iâd confirm exactly what they think : Iâm not from their world.â
Despite her reaction, he intended to have a conversation. Whatever ideas she had on all this, maybe she needed to correct her view. âSo what would you do, in my place ? Standing where no one wants you, where you only attract bad intentions ? Why should I grovel and play their games ? What good would it bring me or my sister to play noble ? They'll never accept me as one of them.â
The Goils~
-Now in technicolor-
Sir Soneka. That was a new one. The more he observed him and listened to his words, the more clear it became that the other was out of his depth. How interesting.
"No, no, it would be my honor!" Kier assured him, shaking his head. "Please, allow me to escort you around. Ochre Hall is not a particularly large estate, but it has its complexities. I'd be happy to show you around, Your Majesty."
Bemused, he offered the other his arm. It wasn't entirely the right gesture between two men, but it was a test: Would the prince decline upon recognizing the oddity of it all, or would he accept due to his naivete of his surroundings?
"Well, if you insist, I'll gladly accept."
Not that it was really surprising - it made sense to not just leave the prince in the hands of anyone. Noah took it as respect towards his position, not suspecting at all he may be more like some interesting, funny novelty for the other.
However, being offered an arm as if he was a lady, Noah found himself frozen. What was it ? A local custom he didn't hear about ? The host was aware it was a prince in front of him, not a princess. At least, Noah was pretty sure he was. In the end, the blonde wasn't able to guess the reason behind the gesture.
He eventually gave a bright, polite smile. "My apologies Sir Soneka, you may not know but in my country, only ladies take a gentleman arm... Or person in need of a support, such as elderies or weak people."
Noah gestured towards the large space waiting for them. "Please lead the way, I assure you I can follow your pace and not get myself lost."
          as the other woman spoke, leah tried very hard to keep up with all of the suggestions being made. everything sounded so good, and each new thing lola mentioned seemed to have swayed leah's decision in a different direction each time. "ah, there's so many good options! i guess i can't say no to a fresh croissant if they just came out of the oven."
          that seemed like a given. now, for something sweet so she could have the best of both worlds. as she once gain peered through the pastry case, leah hummed in thought, but the longer she was looking, the more she seemed to be distracted by something. "i want to get one more thing, but ... can i ask you something? this is a little weird, but have we met before?"
          it was the most direct way to address her curiosity, but she still felt a bit sheepish for asking. "there's something familiar about you, but i might just be making that up. my name's leah if that helps."
Lola watched her hesitating, amused by the cuteness of how each suggestion seemed to add more to her struggle instead of less.
The question however, was unexpected. Met ? Lola was sure she never met this person on Earth, and it wasn't possible she met her in Heaven either... Right.
"Hm... I'm sorry, but I don't think so ? Your face rings no bell at all..."
Confusion was growing in the angel, and she studied Leah more intensely, trying to see if there was something to notice...
But Lola was a specific kind of blind - unable to recognize angels or demons, unless those were displaying their appearance or powers. It was her weakness.
"I don't see how it'd be possible for you to have seen me before, if you never came to this bakery."
@starzfield | Noah
It was very rare, but not entirely unheard of for royalty to grace Ochre Hall with their presence. This, however, was the first time Kier had ever been visited by a prince. Or so that was the claim; if the man was masquerading, then the lord of the house would find out eventually.
If he wasn't... well. As excited as Kier was at the thought of learning royal secrets, he wasn't entirely gung-ho about getting on someone of such power's shit list. So, as always, he would play the welcoming host whilst keeping out an eye for potential problems. It wouldn't do to have his beloved nest of debauchery shut down!
"Did I hear right? My home has been blessed with a member of royalty?" Kier asked the room as he descended from the upper floor to where a gaggle of partygoers had gathered. Truthfully, there were people milling about all over, but the parlor was where the bulk were because that was where the food and drugs were. "Where might I find -- ah. Is it you, Your Majesty?"
He knew exactly who it was. He had been sure to find out before heading out here.
"Kier Soneka, at your humble service. We do not oft adhere to titles here, but I am happy to make an exception." He gave a flourishing little bow. "A pleasure. I hope my humble abode has been to your liking so far?"
There was nothing humble about Ochre Hall, of course.
As slow steps were taken, bringing him further inside the place, Noah was filled with rather⊠Confusion. It didnât look like the kind of parties he was used to.
The fact it was hosted by someone not of the highest circles - he did catch the word âbastardâ on some lips, like a passing, haunting ghost - wasnât bothering him. Though blood mattered, so did many other things like skills or social networks. This party had been recommended to him, from mouth to ear and through several people, apparently.Â
Rumors saying they were the most popular parties, though the reasons werenât exactly spoken out loud - and now he was here, Noah had a better understanding as to why.
Yet, that didnât stop him, curiosity taking the lead instead.
However, when the host beelined to him to welcome him, it was quite an expected behaviour for the prince. Unless there were other royalty, he was probably the highest rank here. Not that he intended to look down on others for that reason !
He smiled at him, genuinely happy to meet the host. Noah heard he was an artist, which made him curious as well.
âSir Soneka, thank you for having me. I hope you donât find me to daring, as I got invited through friends, rather than directly. They said your parties were absolutely wonderful, so of course I had to come and see myself !â
The prince had been taught royalty only bowed to other royalty, so he didnât bow or even tilted his head forward, but his attitude was wholly polite as he spoke to Kier.
âI'll admit this doesnât look like the kind of party Iâm used to. Oh, but it is still beautiful, of course.â
Expected, since he that far only walked in grand ball and classy, high society circles get-together. Salons at times. But this here ? It seemed different.
âIâd be ashamed to steal the host for myself, but if youâre too busy yourself, would you be so kind and let me borrow someone who could enlighten me about how things go here ?â
After all, hosts were often the busiest persons at parties. Noah wasnât selfish enough to keep Kier to himself, royalty or not.
Despite her pampered upbringing, Helena was not a complete stranger to terrifying situations. As soon as she recognized that she wouldn't be breaking free of that boor of a woman's grip, she stopped trying. She cooperated -- she absolutely went dead weight in an attempt to be a passive bother, but clearly that didn't matter to the brute!
To be kidnapped by some mastermind's minions was bone-chilling... but to hear that it was over her singing did give her at least a bolster to her pride. Was her voice truly so irresistible? Was she? Hm...Well, of course the answer was yes, but few actually ever admitted it.
Perhaps she would have to get used to being such a damsel, the more famous she became...
--Still! She did not appreciate being manhandled so.
"Mmf--" She pulled her hands free from the fallen ropes. A mage too, huh? "Helena Reed! And I do not appreciate being transported so!" she huffed. "If your Lord wanted me to sing for him, all he had to do was pay my fee!"
Oh ?
She wasn't terrified - maybe a first, among all the persons who were brought in this office unwillingly. Honestly, Kaelus was relieved. Though a proud demeanor could be tiring, it was better than a poor trembling he'd have to comfort - a thing he wasn't ready to do at all. And was tiring as well.
Her words actually managed the not so small feat of making one corner of Kaelusâs lips curl upward for a second, fleeting show of amusement.
âPlease keep me a seat for the show when you're going to ask him to pay. No matter how good your singing is, this will be an even greater show.â
He kind of joked, sinister, and yet it wasn't entirely a joke.
âMore seriously. Let me quickly paint you the scene you're in. The Dark Lord requested you to sing for him when he wants you to. You have no idea what he may do to you if you refuse - a singing bird doesn't need wings, or legs.â
His tone wasn't even threatening, it was more like someone reading a contractâs terms, nearly monotone.
âEven if I didn't receive specific orders, I can guess I must make sure youâre safe, and get food and water, the basics. HoweverâŠâ
His tone and expression got darker for the first time. âI have enough on my hands as it is. So if you make my life harder⊠I will change yours in kind. Do you understand ?â
His only obligation was to take care of her enough so she could sing for the Dark Lord. Nothing more, nothing less. "And don't be silly escaping from here will just end in you getting hurt." And him getting a headache from the troubles, but surely she didn't care about that.
Starter for @newsidequest (Helena)
It was a peaceful day. Maybe it would surprise many, but the life of a Dark Lordâs minister was actually pretty uneventful, since he was mostly doing meetings and paperwork, not going on the field.
However, this peace wasnât meant to last. As Kaelus was writing in the mix of boredom and comfort that came from usual, menial tasks, someone knocked at the door of his office.
That fact alone wasnât a common occurrence. Few came to his door, and if Kaelusâs mathematics skill was as sharp as always, it rarely brought anything good. Reports were supposed to be given in the morning, and they were in the evening, so whatever it was⊠Was not planned.
âEnterâŠ?â He couldnât fully erase the perplexity in his voice, which increased as Saphira entered the room, followed by some nameless minions- And as his gaze landed on the thing one was carrying like a potato bag, Kaelus felt very distinctly cold sweat form on his back.
Troubles. It was invisibly written all over the tied down, obviously human and apparently woman-shaped person on the minion shoulder, despite the cotton bag covering her head.
Already distressed, Kaelus turned a begging gaze to Saphira, a silent scream of a âNOâ in his eyes. Now, Saphira, one of the Dark Lordâs Generals, only shook her head, looking pretty much as tired as him. Muscular, short black hair, scars, many silver rings at her ears and dark blue eyes - She was one of the few people here Kaelus actually didnât mind having a conversation.
A gesture of her head, and the minion carefully put down the woman (?) he was carrying, then removed the bag from her head. She was gagged with a piece of fabric tied behind her head, and her hands were also tied, but behind her back. Pink hair, blue eyes, quite pretty - but it was something that long stopped mattering for Kaelus.
He was waiting for explanations, and Saphira didnât disappoint. âThe Lord asked us to bring her to him. He wishes her to sing for him whenever he request it, from what he told me. It wasnât that hard to capture her, but I canât exactly keep her with meâŠâ
Right. No one was crazy enough to bother the Generals, and whoever tried didnât live long enough to brag about it. But keeping this pink haired woman among minions and mercenaries⊠Itâd be like leaving a roasted chicken in front of famished beasts. Even if the fear to touch what was the Lordâs would keep most at bay, there would always be one stupid enough to cross the line. And they would all pay for that.
âSo, a singing bird ?â Kaelus asked as the General nodded. âWhere am I even supposed to put herâŠ?â He rubbed his temples, already tired by it all. But he was the best choice - strong enough to protect her if needed, but far from most troublemakers.
âAlright, Iâll handle this.â Relieved, Saphira gave him a short nod as a sort of salute, before leaving with her little group, leaving the âbirdâ behind.
Once alone with the unknown woman, Kaelus gazed at her, thinking. Then lifted his hand, dark power glowing around it, as if absorbing light - and both the gag and the rope tying the womanâs hands came undone, freeing her.
âLetâs see what we have here.â Even if she tried to flee, a mere flick of fingers would block the doors with dark power. Not that sheâd have luck even if she managed to come out of the office - finding the exit, avoiding or escaping the guards⊠Were only a few of the struggles sheâd be met with. âWhatâs your name ?â
