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Darkseeker
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The land of Exoria houses many territories, people groups, species and creatures. Though overtime, this once beautiful land of opportunity had rotted into one of war and hate. Tensions rise against territories and people as a deep magic curses the land. Its fruitfulness is now gone, leaving resources sparse and fear on the rise. Many people have starved or succumbed to sickness, only leading to more bloodshed to steal and protect. There is only one way to stop the horrors from persisting. One way to bring peace and life back to this land. It is to find and break the curse, returning magic and beauty back to Exoria and end the bloodshed once and for all. Many believe this cure to be a fairytale. But not you. Maybe there is doubt in your mind… maybe. It could be you’re in it for the thrill. Maybe you want to help people. Or, there are darker reasons for your participation. Be weary, traveler. For there are traitors in your mist. Fueled by the very greed that has plagued this land. The journey will be perilous. Some of you will fall. Some may die. But if not you, than who? - Directory: You've answered the call. Time to go on a brave journey. Need to study the map? need to read up on the territories? Or discuss with your fellow adventurers? Head on over to the Discussion here. |
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Darkseeker
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Our adventuerers find themselves in the halls of the throne room, ready to be addressed by the king. Either here willingly or not, or even a possible bystander about to be mixed up in the journey of a life time, there's no turning back now. |
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Darkseeker
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The sun shone brightly through the window, a gentle breeze causing the delicate silk curtains to dance around. The gentle song of a wind chime and birds drifted through the air close by, like a soft wake-up alarm. With a deep breath, he inhaled to sweet air, able to detect the scent of fresh flowers and honey. Mmm… Breakfast. His body and mind were still mostly asleep, though he knew he couldn’t remain in the bed forever. No matter how delightful and tempting it was. He had duties to perform. Responsibilities to take care of. Yet part of him just wanted to remain in this soft, cloud of a bed. The sheets were so warm. So soft. Like the fur of a baby bunny. And the pillows were the perfect blend of softness and firm structure, keeping him supported. Keeping his mind a delightful hazy blur. Though the young man forced himself to rise from the bed, his soft, dark brown hair a mess atop his head and sleep nipping at his eyes. His shirt was practically sideways on his muscular frame. Still, he made his body rise completely from the bed, to which he reached up in a jont popping, soul tickling stretch. Valentine yawned, his sharp teeth flashing and a relaxed sigh exiting his mouth. ‘I’m running late’, He thought to himself,’ Today is the day. If anything I need to be early.’ Valentine tilted his head to the side, prompting a swift crack and yet another pop before he rushed to the vanity at the side of his room where his clothes for the day were laid out. Swiftly, he changed into the formal wear - a white long sleeve button up and a red over coat with golden buttons and a dragon pin. He pulled up his black pants, securing them around his waist with the golden dragon head belt. Next, he fixed his hair to make himself more presentable, and brushed his teeth, then washed his face and quickly headed off with a skip. For some reason he felt his heart flutter in his chest and his stomach churn. He knew well enough what today was. The Call. His father had already sent out a message and the volunteers would no doubt already be gathered in the throne room. So Valentine rushed through the massive, pillared hallways, animal-like legs making the small journey quick. He swiftly entered the throne room from the back. Only royals, guards, or those with high authority were allowed through the back, especially since it attached to the royal bedrooms. And, as expected, the throne room was filled with several people already. The volunteers were centered in the middle of the slick quartz floor, surrounded by giant dragon pillars - former kings of the Vrelkai Kingdom - as if watching over the possible heroes that would save them from certain doom. Valentine quickly dashed forward and took his position at the Kings side, quickly tucking away a stray hair and awkwardly fidgeting with the crown upon his head, nestled around his red horns. Only for a moment his golden eyes flicker up towards his father, though he wished he hadn’t. For he was met with a glare of disappointment and disapproval. Valentine quickly looked back at the crowd, watching as advisors, generals, captains, guards, and all manner of high ranking officials gathered around the outskirts, some in their human forms while others in their dragon forms. As the King waited for his address, the sun shone through the top of the throne room, through a large opening, showering the volunteers into light as if symbolically. The future was up to these fine adventurers. And there was no turning back. |
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Lightbringer
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Zira|22|F ~ As the sun started its ascent into the sky, rays of light painted the palace walls a golden hue. A gentle breeze pulled at the silk curtains like some unseen creature was playing with the ends. The young lady stirred as the sun warmed her face, curling further into the plush surface of her bed. Groaning softly as she caught the sound of the maids preparing for the morning. Zira pushed herself upright with a sigh, glancing at the large tome that lay forgotten beside her. She'd fallen asleep reading again, she rubbed her temples. No wonder her head ached. She paused at the tray of food, frowning at the spread. Would they ever learn she preferred chilled food in the morning? While she wasn't opposed to things like pancakes or waffles, but those were too heavy for the early morning. With a huff, she stood from the bed, hissing as her bare feet touched the still cool stone of the floor. Zira moved to her wardrobe, glancing at the options she'd laid out the previous night. It was to be an eventful day, after all, the King would be speaking to the court, and any volunteers for this mission against the curse. But that also meant she had to be presentable, just her luck. Before she could do more than make a choice, her shoulder burned harshly. Zira groaned as she braced against the wooden furniture, gritting her teeth at the pain. That mark had been acting up more often lately, for what reason, she didn't know. Once the pain had subsided, Zira straightened with a heavy sigh. Pulling on the silvery blue dress, her mind ran through many thoughts of what today would bring. Straightening her circlet, she grabbed the chocolate confection from the tray. Munching on the sweet while a maid finished styling her hair in loose waves with a few small braids. Finally ready, she was aided in tying the straps for her heels. Dismissing the staff, Zira stepped into the hallway. It was a relatively short walk to the throne room, passing a few maids on the way. Her chest tightened almost painfully as she paused at the door, anxiety clawing at her. Zira took a steadying breath, smoothing the soft fabric of her dress before entering. Having used the backdoor meant she went unnoticed by most. Except for the royal family and the court officials, the latter of whom seemed to glare at her. Probably believing her presence there was an eyesore, they hated her very existence, it would seem. Making claims that she somehow threatened the King's rule, how could she as his younger half sister? Zira bowed to the King, keeping her gaze locked on the floor. Then she moved off to the side where she'd been told to stand during official gatherings like this. Her gaze cautiously swept the people gathered, spotting a few familiar faces, among with she spotted her friend's pink hair. Nina, she'd spoken about being interested in answering to the King's letter. It was good to see her here, a smile tugged at her lips as the younger girl gifted her chin briefly in greeting. Her train of thought was broken at the sound of the door, there was someone missing? Zira was slightly surprised to see Valentine walk into the room, he looked like he'd just woken up. However, it was the King's reaction to this that stood out. He did not look happy at his son's tardiness. Hopefully, that didn't result in any issues. Considering a lot of them didn't know what today would bring. |
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Darkseeker
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THE ADDRESS - Aloysius + Valentine - M: Zira (ind.), Qinosoda (Ind.) Aloysius huffed, a thin trail of black smoke drifting up from his lips that were twisted in a scowl. Once more, his poor excuse for a son was already screwing this up. If Erebos, the eldest, were still around, Aloysius would have no use for the sorry lizard that somehow found its place beside him. No doubt, Erebos would have already gathered the finest soldiers and been on his merry way. Yet now, he looked out at a group of volunteers. He hadn’t a clue of these people. And he certainly didn’t trust half of them. Especially the Outlaws that had weasel their way into the castle. But that was on him for offering immunity. If it weren’t for the rising tensions, he’d do this mission himself! Yet he wouldn’t leave the kingdom right now. Not when he was needed here to stave off war. Besides, he knew these Outlaws would do anything to get immunity and pardoned. And… desperation may just work in his favor. His golden, piercing eyes left his son and glanced over at Zira with a hint of approval, yet his emotion was nearly undetectable. At least SOMEONE here respected the seriousness of this situation. Finally, his gaze swerved back to the crowd before him, and he rose, clearing his throat. His wings stretched out behind him and he raised a hand, demanding total silence. Immediately, a hush fell upon the crowd. Silence blanketed them closley, all eyes on the King. And, with a smooth, deep, rumbling voice, he spoke. “Those of you who stand before me have answered the Call. You have decided to put your lives on the line, not just for the Vrelkai Kingdom, but for all of Exoria. And that will NOT go unnoticed,” he lowered his hand, eyes swerving back to Valentine for a moment. His son looked away, head down, feeling his father’s eyes bore into the back of his head. It reaped yet another huff of utter disappointment that Aloysius wasn’t good at hiding. “My… son…” it seemed to pain him to acknowledge Valentine,” Has offered to accompany you on this journey. Yet, I must give you all a word of caution. Many of you may not return from this journey. There are dangers rising, twisted beasts being created by the curse. Just know, should you die, your effort will not be in vain. You, Triciers, shall earn your wings in honor, and all species will be recognized for centuries. Your names will be carved into the castle walls, stories to be told to every generation from here on,” Aloysius took a step down from the throne, inching closer to the group. His eyes were examining each and every one of them. Memorizing their images into his brain, should it be the last he see of them. Yet he did not do the same for his own son. Maybe out of hate. But maybe… out of guilt? He suddenly looked across the room, spotting a familiar face. His trusted advisor Qinosoda. With not much of anything else, he dipped his head, as if silently telling the Tricier to speak with him after the crowd dispersed. Then, he returned his focus to the crowd, wings twitching. “Should any royals, or upper class, choose to volunteer, now is your time. But know, once you join this band of adventurers, there is no turning back,” He announced. His palm began to glow in a warm, golden hue as he conjured firm magic. A stream of what appeared to be golden blood flowed from his hand and fell to the floor, falling into the cracks below. But it was intentional, as the blood flowed in the circle that surrounded those gathered in the light, as if a protective sigil of anyone who decided to join. Yet… those who entered the circle, or found themselves already in it, couldn’t leave. They’d answered the call, and now, they couldn’t back out. Valentine walked forward, moving past his father. The two shared a quick glimpse, and Aloysius’ expression never changed. Valentine couldn’t help but wonder if his father would ask him to stay. He wasn’t scared of dying. He;d fought before. He’d killed before. But this journey… if it ended how he thought it would, Aloysius would lose another son. Yet… his father remained silent. So, Valentine entered the circle with a huff, standing beside Outlaws and officials alike. The King bowed his head, returning to his throne and sat, waving a hand. “As you make your decisions and enter the circle, I open the floor to anyone who would like to add. Speak now, or die with your guilt.” He snarled. |
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Lightbringer
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Nina|20|F + Zira|22|F ~ The chipping of the morning birds as the sky turned into a pale blue, signaling the sunrise. The young woman paused, brush growing still in her hair. Gazing into the vanity mirror, her own green eyes gazed right back. She frowned, placing the brush back atop the vanity's surface. If she were to be on time, then she needed to ready herself. Reaching for the golden bell and ringing it, the three maids who remained loyal to their duties entered. Quickly busying themselves with preparing her dress and jewelry. "Miss, if you would.." voiced the head maid, the woman's hair long since turned grey. She'd served her parents faithfully for many years, and served Nina with the same care. It was something she was grateful for when most of the house's staff had turned against her, even if they still cared for the building. "Of course," she voiced with a small smile, nodding to the other two girls as she stood. Silently staring at out the window at the courtyard as they worked to dress her. It was something she could do herself, but it was much faster to simply stand and let the ladies do so for her. The ivy flowers that bloomed at the edge of her window swayed in the gentle breeze. Nina watched them with annoyance, plants her mother had planted, now simply annoyed her. "We are done, mistress. A carriage awaits downstairs for you," voiced one of the younger girls, her head bowed low as she spoke. Nina looked to her, she'd never caught the girl's name, but she supposed at this point that wasn't needed. "I see, thank you," came her monotone reply before waving the girl off. Nina took one last look in the full length mirror, sighing as she noted the crack that ran down the side. A remnant of that night that changed everything. She shook her head resolutely, turning on her heel and practically marching out of the house. Her dark green dress shimmered like an emerald in the sun, it was one of her more prized dresses. Nodding to the driver Nina climbed into the carriage. Her gaze fixed vacently on the window as they horses pulled them through the cobled streets. It took little time at all for them to reach the palace gates, something she was thankful for, any longer in there and she'd have little brain power to actually pay attention. Stepping from the carriage she was greeted by the guards, one of which escorted her within to the throne room. She hesitated upon entering, noting the hushed whispers and suspicious glances thrown at her. Nina glared back, holding her head high she found a spot off to the side. Silently assessing the gathered crowd until she heard a door, her gaze landing on the familiar face who'd entered. A smile tugged at her lips, she hadn't gotten to speak to her friend since receiving the King's letter. When the older woman made eye contact, Nina inclined her head in greeting. As the King stood she focused her attention on his words, listening carefully to the warning and promise of reward or praise. Nina cared little for stuff like that, but at least it would be good to be recognised for joining an effort to stop this plight. She nodded to herself, and when others started joining the golden circle on the floor, she stepped forward. Letting her voice rise above the crowd, "I will join. Not for fame or reward, but simply to put an end to this curse". Her voice steady as her resolve, even if there was a part of her that wasn't so certain. ~~~ Zira found herself hesitating, she met the King's brief glance towards her and wasn't certain what it meant. The man was practically impossible to read. But he sure could get people to join a cause, true to his station. She stared at the floor, thoughts racing on if she would actually step up, or maybe it would be better to simply stay and continue her research. Her thoughts were interrupted by a feminine voice rising up over the crowd, her gaze snapped to her friend in surprise. She'd figured Nina wouldn't really care for the reward or fame, but to simply say she just wanted to put an end to the curse? Why was she..no, Zira shook she head. The younger lady had her reasons, and was entitled to keep them to herself. Zira took a breath, stepping forward she dipped her head to the King as she passed. "I will accompany them as well, for the Kingdom and Exoria" she voiced with more confidence than she felt. Crossing into the circle to stand beside Valentine, giving a brief nod to the young man who was her nephew. Despite being close in age, she couldn't help but see him as little more than a child. Maybe it was inappropriate, but she couldn't help it. |
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Darkseeker
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Ivan || 87 || Earth Fae|| Royal Guard || M: Gathered Ivan stood against the wall, rigid and collected as usual. His neutral gaze swept over the assembled nobility, commoners, and riffraff, searching for the slightest sign of danger. While his posture was straight rather than defensive, his muscles were tensed to intercept any physical attacks on the royals up front. The sardine packing of the room always made the man uncomfortable, particularly in situations like this, where stress and unrest were running rampant among many of those gathered there. It was much easier to keep everyone in line when they only approached the king one at a time, but he also understood that repeating announcements and instructions on an individual basis would be extremely tiresome for an already tired king. Not that he'd ever say it to Aloysius' face. The king's words rang out in the chamber. Ivan's spine prickled indignantly at the air between Valentine and his father; heavens help the monarch who couldn't hide disdain to save his life. The corner of the guard's mouth twisted downward slightly, though his eyes remained emotionless. He'd changed Valentine's diapers -- for all intents and purposes, Ivan very well could have done the same for Aloysius, too! While he and the prince had grown apart somewhat since the boy's childhood, there was still a part of him that was perhaps overly protective of Valentine. Whether that was his reasoning or it was something else, as the king called volunteers forward, Ivan stepped into the group and placed himself behind Valentine. He offered Aloysius a curt, swift salute, as if to say joining such a venture was his duty, but his mouth did not move. While Ivan was a master of keeping his physical displays of emotion in check, he did not trust his voice to keep his mild irritation hidden. Besides, since when did royal guards speak at gatherings? The crowd became a bit restless, causing Ivan to divert his attention to the flailing frames of those being pushed out of the way. Others moved with various expressions of surprise and indignation, eventually making way for a tall, red-orange woman who was towing a man with foxlike features behind her. The latter didn't look to pleased about the situation. The woman looked rather familiar, but it wasn't until she spoke that Ivan recognized her as Latayel, the very infuriating dragon shifter who was known to cause all sorts of petty mischief, some of it carrying deadly consequences. "Aloysius!" she sang out, offering a very obviously mocking bow as she waved her letter with one hand. Ivan gripped his sword handle and sent a glance to the king, now wondering if he could just... get rid of her. "I'm so pleased you thought of us poor, decrepit outlaws for this daunting task. Just checking; I get immunity now, yes?" Ivan glowered at her, his sword slowly slipping from its sheath. The letter in the woman's hands hissed beneath her sharp fingernails before smoke began curling up from where she held it. What an eyesore she was. |
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Darkseeker
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Latayel || 120 || Dragon Shifter || M: Daniel, Gathered Ah, it seemed the dear old king needed her expertise. Red lips curled up in a terrifying smile, revealing sharpened canines. Her gold talons twirled the letter between her fingers as she lounged in the tavern seat, deciding whether or not she actually wanted to attend the gathering mentioned. Well... it wouldn't be her first run-in with royalty, and she was in the mood to stir up some royal messes, but going alone was dissuading. Not daunting; no, never daunting. She was too scary to be daunted. But... still. With a sigh, supposing her fun plans to be all for naught, Latayel stood and swayed across the floor to the exit. Once in the street, her draconian eyes caught the glint of another letter -- not her own. Her curiosity piqued and she determined then and there that the owner of that letter was going to be her companion to the palace. Her gaze traveled up to the face of the bearer, and she let out an awww. There was a man -- part kitsune, perhaps -- with lovely, fluffy fox ears and a tail that looked delicious- um, well-cared for. Yes. And he was taller than her! Truly a beautiful sight in this land of tiny tricier frames. Striding up to him with her own letter in tow, she ordered, "You, with the letter! Come with me; we're going to have so much fun together." She did not wait for an answer one way or the other; if he did refuse, she could probably get away with eating him. With her free hand, she gripped his, swishing her long, lava-red hair out of the way and nearly skipping as she made her way to a large clearing. In a playful tone, she purred, "Watch out a moment, dearie." Closing her eyes, she tucked in her head and allowed Cyra'analeth -- her dragon form -- to be released. Burning white eyes opened onto the poor stranger she'd just kidnapped, and one scaled paw reached out to pick him up while she hummed, "I promise not to eat you if you tag along." Stretching out her wings, she pounced up into the air and raced her way to the castle. Flying was just so much faster than walking, and they could skip all the dirt and ugly looks. Until they reached the castle, anyway. She landed and shifted outside the gate, grabbed on to the man once again, and strode through the doors past the guards, waving her letter in their faces until they backed off. Pushing through the crowd of assembled pipsqueaks, she dragged her companion up to the front. "Aloysius! I'm so pleased you thought of us poor, decrepit outlaws for this daunting task. Just checking; I get immunity now, yes?" She offered a sweet smile, though it most certainly did not reach her amber eyes, which were brimming with mischief. Of course, she'd have to promise not to eat anyone, and there was the matter of putting her life in danger for a baby tricier, but that was okay. If immunity was the reward, it was a bargain. With an "oh!" she turned to her kidnapped stranger and asked, "And what are your terms of participation, sweetheart?" |
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Darkseeker
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Daniel / 22 / M --- Daniel studies the letter he'd plucked from someone's satchel, squinting at it. It seems too good to be true. Immunity? Pardoning? Why would the king ever give that out, even if the outlaws he plans to pardon are basically going to give their life for him? Biting on his lip, he thinks about that for a second. A pardon isn't worth much when you're dead. And that's almost certainly what this journey would end with. No, he'd much rather spend the rest of his days in frightened solitude, thank you very much. . He's about to toss it onto the street for some poor, more desperate fool to find, when somebody calls "You, with the letter!" His head snaps up, ears pricked but shrinking back. Oh, no. Oh, no, no, no. This woman is definitely not a royal guard, but oh, no, he hadn't wanted to be spotted. . "Wh- what?" He squeaks in reply, too shocked by her sudden approach and seemingly jovial manner to even bare his teeth at her threateningly. "Fun?" No! This does not sound like fun! A slow, painful, and excruciating death that you know you could've avoided is not fun. . But she's grabbing his hand and dragging him along and it's all he can do not to stumble over his own feet until she stops in a clearing and tells him to watch out. For what? Still, he steps back a few paces, ears flicking and head on a swivel, trying to ascertain if there's any danger. . Before he can even think of running away, Cyra'analeth stands before him in her full majesty. Daniel shrieks, falling to the ground in his sudden rush to get away. A dragon? He can't handle a dragon! Does she mean to eat him!? He curls up, covering his head with his forearms as she picks him up in one massive paw, not at all comforted by her promise not to eat him. It's not like he has a choice in tagging along, though. . He remains curled up as Cyra'analeth flies, whimpering occassionally and biting on his bracelets. He breaks one as they take a sudden dip, the beads scattering down into the sky below. Daniel doesn't see them fall- his eyes are squeezed shut, certain that if he looks down he'll somehow fall, too. It is well and throughly the worst experience of his entire awful life. As they land, he stumbles away, flinching as Latayel grabs him and prevents him from falling again. . He cowers behind her as she drags him to the front and boldly adresses the king, watching her with wide eyes. How can she possibly be so confident? He feels like he can't draw enough air into his lungs, like he's going to die, and he hasn't even made his presence known! He flinches again when she turns to him, biting on his knuckles nervously. . "I- what?" He gets to set terms? But he doesn't want anything! Daniel's perfectly happy with his nomadic life in the wild spaces of the world. Can he ask to leave? Probably not, and he doesn't want to embarrass himself. He bites down harder on his knuckles, drawing blood. "I... I just wanna be left alone. Uh... i- if that's okay, Y- Your Majesty," he says quietly, glancing around the crowded hall. Is that stupid? Is that something he can request? He wants for nearly nothing, and what he does want for cannot be given as a royal boon. |
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Lightbringer
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Sari || 22 || Dragon Shifter || M: Those gathered in the main hall. The morning had been busier than usual, a quiet tension hanging over the castle like a coming storm. Everything had to be spotless—sharpened to perfection for The Call. Sari snorted as she carried yet another heavy tray of baked goods across the kitchen. “I think you’ve made enough food to feed the whole damn kingdom,” she muttered to the cook, wiping her flour-dusted hands on her apron. Though she spoke with ease, her appearance hinted at a far more rugged life than that of a typical castle maid. Tall and strong, with a frame shaped by long hours of work at both forge and hearth, she carried herself with a quiet sturdiness. Her chocolate-brown hair was braided and pinned back in a practical fashion, though loose strands clung to her temple in the kitchen's heat. Her tanned skin bore the faint sheen of exertion and the sun’s touch, and her muscular, hourglass figure was hidden beneath her worn tunic and apron. A peek of chainmail glinted beneath her shirt—her one concession to the restlessness humming beneath her skin. Dark brown eyes—almost black—were ringed with a subtle green around the iris, feline in their shape and sharpened by quiet intelligence. And on the inside of her left forearm, barely visible beneath the rolled sleeve, the head of a rearing stallion emerged from beneath her skin—an intricately detailed tattoo of the horse she favored above all: her dappled chocolate palomino, a proud Friesian-Quarter Horse cross. She hadn’t meant to get involved in The Call. She was content to stay in the kitchens, away from the dangerous aspirations of nobles and adventurers. Life in the castle was humble, but safe. Predictable. And for someone like her—someone with secrets stitched beneath the skin—that was a gift. Then the tray of drinks was shoved into her hands, the cook muttering something about nobles needing refreshment. Sari blinked down at her flour-covered shirt, her faded pants, her smudged apron. “Well, there goes my chance to say no,” she sighed, pushing through the kitchen doors. Her boots echoed hollowly along the stone floors as she approached the main hall, the king’s voice rumbling ahead like distant thunder. Slipping in through a side door, she kept to the edges, circling the crowd. That’s when she caught sight of the prince stepping into the center circle etched into the floor. Of course. Her lips pressed into a line. Why wouldn’t he? What better chance to prove himself worthy than now, under the eyes of all? A sharp shove snapped her from her thoughts. She stumbled. The tray tipped. Glasses tumbled. Crimson wine splashed down her front as the tray crashed to the stone with a deafening clang. Gasps echoed around her. A flicker of lightning sparked down her arms, born from instinct and irritation. She turned to see who had shoved her—but the golden glow of the summoning circle drew her gaze first. Her heart lurched. She was inside the circle. Of all the cursed luck. Frozen in place, drenched in wine, she stood as the murmurs grew. She couldn’t step out. Not with the king watching. Not without drawing shame and insult. Her fingers curled into fists before she slowly dropped to her knees, cleaning up the spilled glassware with shaking hands. “It seems fate has made its decision for me,” she murmured, bundling the shards into her apron. |
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Winter Month: 1 
Night 
Clear Moon: 
