The World's Requiem: Act 1 Truth in Lies

[Bluemask 96]

Mikhail, had just finished giving the items he wanted to order to the waitress standing by. Truth be told he felt that he had no need to chime in, Prince Alister had already asked for his contribution on this mission, and traveling all over Arkus was like a dream come true to Mikhail. Having friends to come with would be even better. "I'm in." Mikhail said now completely done with his choices of consumption for now. He couldn't fill himself up too much, there was a festival going on which meant there were bound to be more shop to stop by and find something to eat.

[Mercenary on the Winds]

Luce was the first to respond to her and Ichika's concerns--it really seemed like Luce knew about all of this to start. They were a special consultant of some sort, and in theory, it made sense about her information gathering; very few people were going to suspect a performer of much more than being a performer. A small pout formed on her face as she started getting the hint that they were teasing her, first going on about Eve potentially keeping tabs on her, and then offering to protect her from Eve. "...I assure you that if that was the case, I wouldn't need protecting from it. I'm capable of handling myself in most circumstances." She huffed, and then her thoughts drifted back to the armored man they fought, or well, who had been the enemy's commander, and had exploded in a shower of light. More and more, it seemed like Luce was the only person who could have been the cause; it wasn't her, and Eve was in view--unless one of the civilians got to him, it had to have been the feline. 

Alouette's focus intensified as Eve spoke up, and explained that things with Garmr, and Lohengrin were starting to take a turn for the worse. It appeared to be bad enough that even Lorelei seemed to know of what was happening. "So, if I'm to understand this correctly... we're a security force of sorts? Since most of the countries that would be supplying aid aren't militaristically inclined, such a push would leave them exposed. Then..." Eve's mention that she likely knew one of the benefactors meant that it was one of two people, either her sister, and thus her family, or the more likely one, Kat Baroque. 

Lastly, the conversation took a more focused turn on her. "...I was chosen for a reason? For my magic?" The mention of the church using her ability, and for reasons that she wasn't being made aware caused Alouette to hold her arms tight in front of her. "...I'm... I'm not agreeing to anything else without knowing why my ability to sense magic in particular is important here. You, you might not see my magic, or me as a tool, but... you said it yourself, you're acting as an arm of the church, and will be expected to act in accordance." The confidence and calm on Alouette's face was replaced with one of concern and uncertainty. She'd only really gotten free of being viewed as a tool, and the last thing she wanted was to be viewed that way again. 

Edited September 24, 2023 by Mercenary on the Winds

[scorri]

"Oh, I know you can~ You proved that in the fight. I just like to tease Eve, so if I had the excuse, I would take it." Luce turned their attention back to Eve, and the woman sitting next to her, their tail waving slightly. The one they didn't know, Taka, was interesting, especially since she was also a cat. That wasn't the only reason, Luce was intrigued by how serious and quiet she was, especially given how close she seemed to be to Eve. They leaned over, nudging Taka with a grin. "You should try the pancakes too~ If you have a sweet tooth, get the one that's filled with chocolate and strawberries, I bet you'll love it. If you like savory, they had one with chicken and a cheese sauce. Oh, and thank you for your help in the battle today~ It was good to see that Eve had someone to help her out." it seemed like Eve was slowly working her magic and getting everyone on board. It was good to know that they hadn't fully spoiled things with Ichika. They would need to be careful to not make things worse with the group dynamics moving forward. For now though, they could just focus on some different members of the group.

[TheRoon]

It seemed like Ichika was convinced, though she noted Luce had really rubbed her the wrong way. "Thank you, Ichika. I promise I'll make this worth your while." Mikhail and Miles were also in, though Miles was quick to challenge Ichika. "Being a protector can teach one many things, but this job comes with more than just protection, Miles. Be at ease." She sought to keep things as civil as possible, she didn't want things to sink on the first meeting. Which only had her turn to Ali in slight surprise. Then again, probably not so surprising given what she had done for her in the past. "...you do bring up excellent points, miss Alouette." She had grown serious herself, almost deadly serious. "Then in that case, I will pull the curtain back."

She reached for her scarf and pulled it off to show a jade stone embedded into a black collar around her neck, and as soon as the scarf was pulled away from the jewelry Alouette could sense intense magic about the stone, and a sword by Ichika's side shook slightly. Not a lot, but enough to possibly alert her. "I'm sure you all know of Heroic Regalia. The princes of Lohengrin and Gottfried were both entrusted one to use, in fact every region was entrusted a few as gifts. A symbol of what their ancestors had done during the Requiem Wars." She put a finger on the stone. "There's a group of people who, one way or another, got their hands on a few of the Regalia. The church gave me orders to find them and recover the items. This choker was given to me to help level the playing field, and one who is adept or gifted with magic can sense them out so long as they aren't covered by special obstructions. This scarf is one example of that." She lowered her finger.

"That's more or less why Albion wanted to be involved, of course this is all for the safety of the people, it's just a more...delicate concern, one they don't want the public to hear about. The fact I'm telling you all this, while necessary, could also be dangerous." She looked Ali in the eye. "But I want to make myself clear: I may represent the church, but I am not a blind follower to everything they ask of me. Everything I do is through my own beliefs and values, if you decline here I will simply drop it. The safety and well being of my comrades is the most important thing to me, even if we haven't known each other for very long." The tone of her voice seemed more intense there, a sore spot potentially, but she also wanted to show some grit.

[GoldsbroTSG]

Taka looked at the other cat, with a modicum of confusion in their expression as she watched them explain the food to her. What was a pancake? She'd seen a cake presented to Princess Yukari before, but not one you make in a pan. Isn't that supposed to be oven baked? "Pancake..." Taka opened the menu back up and started looking through again. Much of the conversation wasn't of interest to Taka, but she tried to maintain listening. The ninja was keen on continuing working how she did as Yukari's servant, but to understand part of why they're here... That partially interested the girl. Her tail straightened, then, the other cat began complimenting her.

"I did what was needed of me. I was told to join you, thus I'd fight to keep you all safe. Thanks are unnecessary."

[MRDRHAWK]

Miles hadn’t actually been intending to challenge anybody, though Evangeline seemed quick to defuse a situation that wasn’t much of anything. Had he come off as challenging Ichika, to her? His brow furrowed at the thought, and wondered if he should perhaps clear the air later.

Before he could, though, Evangeline explained more about what their goal was - retrieval of the Regalia. “Ah, this makes sense… so, we’ve been chosen by our benefactors - to which I assume myself, Mikhail, and the red-haired madam’s lieges can be listed as being among - because they knew we could be trusted, given that many of us have had our strength witnessed by royalty firsthand.” Miles seemed keen to sum up why they were here, almost to make things more palatable. But something tugged at his mind - two somethings, really, but only one could be dealt with now.

“I’ll be frank, miss Evangeline. Does the church - or you, perhaps - believe this group to be acting alongside Garmr’s forces?” Miles asked, drumming his artificial arm’s fingers on the table before him. If such things were all connected…

[Nanami Touko]

"It cannot bring me across the continent. I do not plan on being any noble's guard dog, no matter how content you may be in doing so." This was certainly an odd group, but the group quickly didn't matter, Ichika's hand, as discreetly as she could, gripping the sword tightly and holding it still. Now that is a dangerous artifact... I had best keep my distance from this Eve. The last thing I need is the Michitsuna waking up this far from home... But I cannot allow her to know that I carry it. Troubling... Act as naturally as you can, Ichika. This will be part of your trials as well.

She let out a silent sigh, keeping a tight hand on the blade's sheathe. "If it is to be a magic relic hunt, then it shall be. I am versed in the ways of some magic, but do not have this ability to sense it that Alouette seems to possess. If I am to participate, I would be best suited cutting down those in the way before we employ her unique abilities." Ichika idly flagged down a waiter and finally asked for some food as they spoke, finding her appetite as things seemed to be coming to a, finally, favorable conclusion. I will do all that I can to make you proud, mother.

Edited September 25, 2023 by Nanami Touko

[Mercenary on the Winds]

Eve's tone shifted as she started addressing her again; it was clear that Eve did not take well to the, admittedly, spurrious accusation. But it was a sore spot into a sore spot; the last thing Alouette wanted was to be someone else's tool again. Eve helped her run from that life, and she certainly wasn't going to go back. That thought didn't last long as Eve also revealed a magical artifact that was... similar to the princess's eye, or at least similar to the magical signature that she'd felt.

"...We're searching for the Heroic Regalia?" Alouette blinked, she'd heard of the artifacts, but the fact that any of them had been stolen--as well as the fact that Eve apparently had one--was remarkably troubling. Not so much that Eve had one; maybe that was magic that she had surrounding her when she arrived. Alouette lessened the grip on her arms, "Hmph... I am a woman of my word, and I promised that I would repay my debt. I... sensed this type of magic before, so it seems to make sense to ask me to help as I can."

She shuffled for a moment, before sighing, "I'm sorry if my words hit a point of contention, I'm just not interested in being used again. I've had enough of that." Alouette huffed, and quickly turned to the waiter that Ichika had flagged down. She ordered quickly, not even having opened her menu. She'd feel better after food, or at least not as tired. Food was good at that.

[TheRoon]

"We haven't ruled out the possibility of Garmr being involved, Miles. At the same time, we have no proof just yet. Still, I wouldn't put it past the great mind of the Platinum Strategist to have cooked up a whole scheme to gain an advantage in the war." She turned back to Ichika. "That's more or less the plan, but the important thing to note is to avoid engaging anyone wielding Regalia alone. They give the user super natural abilities, if you run into one let me handle it. If possible anyway..." She realized that she may not be around all the time, even with the enhanced speed the choker gave her. "No apologies needed, Alouette. We all worked hard to bring you out of that life, I would never throw away our hard work." She wished she could find a way to reassure her, but perhaps another time.

"Well, it seems like we're all in agreement for the moment! Thank you all, truly." She turned her eyes across the table to view everyone. "So before any important work can begin at least half of the members here still need to see their escorts to their meeting, after that then work will begin. Until then, the festival will begin in the morning! Inn rooms will be all set and paid for. If anyone has any questions by all means pester me any time! You can also pester Nate, the big guy in the jacket. He's also a member of the squad, with uh...special circumstances. He's not really my second in command, but he still knows a lot!"

A moment later the big blond fighter stepped in and gave a wave to Eve, and behind him were Alister, Alexandra and Lorelei. The blond spoke up. "Seems like we made it in time for dinner...all this running around was a work out..."

Alister approached Mikhail and gave him his usual soft smile. "It seems like you're already adjusting just fine, what did you order? I might have what you're having."

Alex took a seat next to Miles and let off a sigh. "What an irritating day, those idiots just wouldn't stop running. You have no idea how long it took me to chase them all down."

Finally, Lorelei stepped up to the seat next to Alouette. "I'm glad you're alright, Alouette. I hope my gift helped you all." She leaned in a little. "It seems like Eve found you too, I know this is all last minute but I meant to tell you along the way...but you know what happened."

[Bluemask 96]

Mikhail sat and observed as initial talks had concluded. This group was definitely unique, almost as much as the mission in question. He made mental notes of everyone here then proceeded to grab a roll from the table and butter it, a nice little start to this trip. The festival wasn't until tomorrow,  so indulgence of this establishment was in full order. It would be one less stop on his excursion tomorrow, unless the food was simply divine. Then he'd have to return, and probably write home about it. 

Mikhail was deep into savoring the roll when a familiar voice called out to him. The healer lit up as prince Alister approached, almost like a puppy recognizing an old friend. "Mmm!" Was the only response, thanks to bread roll occupancy, as he held up his list of food choices, a lovely soup being his choice recommendation for his liege.

[MRDRHAWK]

Miles clicked his tongue, but before he could get another word in edgewise, his liege came in and sat next to him. Letting out a breath he likely had some idea he was holding, he placed a reassuring hand upon the princess’s shoulder - his flesh-and-bone hand, fortunately, not his mechanical one.

”You only had to chase them so fiercely because they were so frightened by your strength, milady.” Miles gave her praise like it was second nature, and in a way, it was. He just hopes that his relief wasn’t too obvious, or it might be embarrassing. “I’m relieved to see you unharmed, milady. Not that I would have expected any less from you, of course.”

[Nanami Touko]

"Mmm..." It seemed as though these Regalia being the focus meant a great deal for the politics of this land. She had no real understanding of things as it stood, but it was something that could be explained with time, surely. Though, while guarding people during fights and using her sword was well and good, she could offer a bit more. "Miss Eve," she sat up as she addressed the woman, "while I do not have as impressive a magical sense as Lady Alouette," with Lorelei returning, it seemed pertinent to be more respectful, "I have some experience with impressively magical weapons-- things beyond the standard of any mortal ken. My family is in charge of guarding several," a lie, it was just one, and it wasn't with her family, "therefore, if I come into proximity with such a relic, and the Lady Alouette is not present to observe it, I should be able to make a similar reading. All this to say, I shall keep my senses open, and if I am alone or with others less magically inclined, I shall note that which I feel and do my best to find you as soon as possible."

[Mercenary on the Winds]

Alouette looked over as Lorelei arrived from where ever had been, garnering a bit of a sigh of relief from Alouette. Then the wayward princess informed her that, she too, had also known about the situation. While she was by far the best option to escort the princess through Crecia, and the festival, this information added a new dimension as to why she was asked above anyone else. The pout from earlier returned, before the red haired mage shook her head, "Yes, I do. Still, it... would have been nice to know before this so I could have made my mind up." Alouette took one of the rolls, and followed after the healer's lead--Mikhail was his name from recollection--and buttered it slightly. She needed something before the food actually arrived. "Your assistance was probably the only reason that more of them didn't get inside, so it was both necessary and appreciated. And, I'm fine, a little tired, but there's very little I can do about that aside from resting now." 

Alouette then clued into Ichika's conversation with Eve; Ichika reverted to some formality calling her "Lady," and mentioned that she too could sense the magic of the Regalia because her family was responsible for impressive magic weapons. Alouette nodded, "That's a good thing to know... I stated before but... I do have some issue with my magic at times, so having someone else who may be able to pick up on magic should something happen to me is an excellent safety to have." Alouette's eyes drifted over the establishment, taking in the familiar sights, and memories, knowing that should whatever the attackers had planned went correctly, she might not have been able to see again. "As both a representative as Phantasma, and a woman of my station, I'll be sure to do what I can to help." Eve and Lorelei were the only people who needed to know what that really meant; a Celti couldn't just turn away from something like this, especially now that Isolde had been directly involved. Or at least it seemed like it had been.

Then there was the fellow that Eve mentioned, and who had brought Lorelei and the others with him. A tall, blonde man with a very defined physique; at a glance, it felt like he would have been more boisterous, but from the wave and his short introduction, he seemed more reserved. Perhaps that was more because of the running around that he mentioned. Though, all three of the men around had been rather lax, Mikhail almost too spacey to place, almost entirely on his own wavelength, Miles almost completely disinterested until his liege was either the topic, or present, and now Nathan. In truth, it was kind of calming, she'd expected things to go as they usually did, though perhaps the fact that Lorelei was with her was dampening things--it usually did to some degree. Alouette turned, and nodded her head at Nathan, "Thank you for making sure that Princess Lorelei returned safety, sir." She did her best to downplay what she could, but she had loosened her harness prior since combat was over. 

[TheRoon]

Alister couldn't help but chuckle at Mikhail's response. "Aaah, the fabled son is in his element at long last. I'm happy for you, Mikhail. There's plenty of feasts in your future I assure you." He took a seat. "Soup, hm? Well, sounds good to me!"

"Heh, of course Miles! It was easy pickings if you ask me." She chuckled as she looked over the menu. "I hope you've been getting along with everyone, sounds like you guys did great work yourselves! That's why I chose you after all, reliable and strong." She looked back at him with a smile.

Lorelei gave an apologetic expression to Alouette's pouting. "I'm really sorry, Alouette. But it does seem like you made up your mind." She took a seat next to her. "You've been with us for so long, I really do appreciate all of your hard work and I'm sure Eve will too. It's only for half a year, but I hope you bring me back a lot of great stories." She gave her a smile, and noted her declaration of being a representative of Phantasma. "Your contributions will help us get one step closer to officially entering in the alliance, thank you Ali." She turned back to her menu and was lost in thought for a moment. Now it's up to me to make sure Phantasma stays on the path I need it to be, it won't be an easy battle...

Eve heard Ichika's offer and she tilted her head toward her to listen, when she brought up her experience with magical weapons she locked eyes with the samurai priestess. "Oh, is that right?" Wait, I may have heard something like that before. Eve took a short moment to try to recall what that reminded her of. Is this why Adam had his eye on her? I'll have to ask him later...after I beat him. "That's actually very good to hear, Ichika." She put on a smile. "I'll be sure to keep your own ability to sense out Regalia in mind, all I ask is that you don't bite off more than you can chew. I have a few things I wouldn't mind discussing at some point, but until then let's just relax into the coming night." Eve gave Ali one more nod. "I am blessed to have such a reliable team already, thank you Alouette."

Nathan had taken a sigh, his guard duty had ended now that all of the royals had settled in. Granted, he found it funny that he was placed as their escort. He knew all three of them were significantly stronger than he was. The blond walked along to find a chair when he noted a cute red head stop him to express gratitude, but he also noted how...'bouncy' she was as soon as she loosened her harness. "O-oh!" He was surprised, but he tried his best to recover with a quick eye turn. "No thanks needed ma'am, I was just doing my part..." Aaah, settle down Nate. She's just saying thanks...wait, what was her name again? "Wait, did I hear that name right? You're Alouette?"

Edited October 3, 2023 by TheRoon

[Mercenary on the Winds]

Alouette nodded, "I'll do what I can, Lorelei. Especially if it helps Phantasma. I'm not the greatest story teller, but I'll return to you with what I can." She was going to move forward with this. It would be an excellent sort of test for how far her magic had come, and how well she could really manage. Her parents had always been so harsh on her and her circuitry issue; all of her other siblings may not have been as strong as she was, but they were still very strong, and didn't need anywhere near the kind of support that she did. They all but gave up on her, and tried to use her in other ways; such as her incredible beauty. But now, she had a chance to prove them wrong to doubt her. 

Alouette blinked at the man's response, before sighing, it was a reaction that she was well used to. It was clear that he didn't mean anything by it, so Alouette moved past it. "Even so, if something happened to the princess, I'd have failed in my duties, and I'm glad that didn't come to pass." She blinked again, as she watched a different emotion wash over the man's face, recognition. "...Yes, my name is Alouette. Does... that ring any bells?" Alouette took on a bit more of an inquisitive look. He didn't look like anyone that she recognized, but it really did sound like he either knew someone by her name, or knew about her. Or perhaps it was the prelude to him flirting--that was a method that some had tried before. 

[TheRoon]

"I can understand that, guard duty for royalty is never easy. I'm glad I could help." He did his best to keep his eyes away from obvious points, but when she asked him if her name rang any bells he answered with a serious expression on his face. "Well it's just..." He paused for a moment, as he considered how to approach the subject. "If you're the Alouette I believe you are I hope we can have a minute to chat, I have something to ask of you." He turned away for a moment. "Until then I'll let you enjoy the night, you've earned it." Ali may notice the tone of his voice wasn't one of a flirtatious man, he really did have business with her. Before she had a chance to ask he walked off to take a seat near Eve.

"Oh, one more thing." Eve spoke up. "The festival starts tomorrow, and you all can more or less do whatever you want until tomorrow evening when we meet the sponsors." She smiled. "Work will start very soon, so enjoy what free time you all have until then."

With that last word the party went on into the night, and eventually the time came for everyone to rest. Alister, Alexandra and Lorelei had bid good night to their charges as Nate escorted them back to the castle. Eve led the group to the Sheltered Rose, an inn just down the block from the restaurant. Everyone was assigned their rooms for the night, and after a long day they had a well deserved sleep.

-----------

It wasn't long until morning had arrived over the city, and the alliance squad would wake up to a shining sun and birds chirping just outside the inn. While the inn had been somewhat quiet there was some sound outside. The shopping district had begun to prepare for the festival, a lot of people had spent their time preparing for the day ahead. The streets and shops were decorated with flowers and flags, it was quite a pretty sight. Eve was already out of the inn pretty early, though Nate was still in his own room, everyone else would wake up at their leisure and do whatever they wished as Eve had stated. Though Alouette would notice there was a letter in her room, slipped in from under the door. It was from Katherine Baroque, a name she would recognize. If she were to open and read it she would notice it was an invitation:

I hope this letter finds you in good health, my dear friend. I had hoped to greet you in person, but business and the festival has taken my attention. That being said, it is your birthday so we MUST celebrate! I invite you to the manor today at noon for a tea party, you may bring one guest and I will accommodate them. I'll be waiting!

- Katherine.

PS: Don't worry about my brother, he'll be gone before you arrive.

[Bluemask 96]

For someone who ate enough to shock the waitress, Mikhail was out relatively early. A bright smile to match the sunrise in Isolde. Shops were still setting up for today's festivities,  but this didn’t bother the healer one bit, right now just wandering about and getting a lay of the land was all on his mind. His next stop would be the residential area, and maybe swing by the park after that. It would probably be good to greet the Prince later on too, they could both grab lunch. The mage lady from yesterday too, Allouette was her name. She seemed like she could eat her fair share,  though not as much as he did. He could still see sharing a meal with her as a good idea. Then was Ichika and the ninja that was with Eve, Taka was the name Mikhail  remembered. Getting to know them and how home was for the two was also a topic of interest. Today seemed like it would be another great adventure. 

Edited October 4, 2023 by Bluemask 96

[Nanami Touko]

Ichika was up earlier than the sunrise, leaving the inn without her armor. She wore something similar to sweat pants and a tunic, her harness and a sports bra underneath to make sure things stayed in place. She'd gone off for a run, something she'd stuck to doing every two days to keep up her stamina, making sure she stayed in shape. She took the time while she was running to keep her eyes out about the city, seeing if there were any attractions she would have to remember for when the rest of the place woke up, but she couldn't quite tell. With most of the town still asleep, and the sun not up yet, it wasn't easy to place things. Still, her run was enjoyable, and she returned to her room as the sun began to peek over the horizon. She borrowed some warm water from the facilities, washing herself down as best as she could, and by the time everyone was hustling and bustling to wake up, she was back in her usual outfit-- bodysuit, boots, her gloves and the white coat she wore over it all. Buttoned up this time, as there would, hopefully, be no combat.

Her two swords at her side, she idly kept one hand on a hilt, heading out of her room and immediately turning towards Alouette's room. With a swift knock on the door, she finished the last of her morning setup, pushing a small, red katana shaped hairpin into her bangs, brushing them out of one eye. "Good morning, Alouette. I hope I am not waking you or disturbing you. I have come with a request, if that is alright.

[MRDRHAWK]

Miles was rather reticent to take a room in the inn when the princess was elsewhere, but he supposes this would be something he’d have to get used to. Even before getting out of his room, though, he had much to do. New feelings to sort out, new people to deal with… and yet, as he sat on his bed, half clothed, it was the same issue that he always had to deal with.

”Blasted arm…” The whirring was sounding much clunkier than normal today while Miles was getting dressed, which meant he’d require additional maintenance today. He wondered if he would even be able to make much of the festival, but… he had to try. The whole reason he even had this mechanical arm was so he could enjoy life without having to be held back because of the circumstance of his birth. Even if it was a cursed little contraption many days, it was still invaluable for Miles to protect people.

“Well, best be off. It wouldn’t do for me to be alone and miserable when merriment is the goal of the day.” Miles muttered to no one but him, to psyche himself up for the day. He didn’t let things get him down normally, and he wouldn’t start now.

[Mercenary on the Winds]

In the hustle and bustle of the day before, Alouette had forgotten something rather important about the festival. It always started yesterday, but because of the sudden combat, things were postponed until today, June 21st. Alouette woke on time, fortunately, she wasn't as tired after eating and speaking more with Lorelei--her circuits made it a toss up of whether she'd wake on time, or late. She'd only just rolled out of bed when she noticed the letter in front of the door, almost knowing exactly who it was from before she picked it up, and opened it. It had almost been eight years at this point, and still Alouette could tell Katherine's handwriting anywhere--her closest friend, and one of the people who helped her escape her unenviable position. A request for celebration for her birthday. Alouette sighed, and then squeezed the letter to her chest, feeling a sense of relief wash over her for a moment. It really felt like she was home, and in the good way, especially since Katherine mentioned that Bars would be far away by the time anything happened. The threat of him being present still hung over her, but the bright sun of Katherine, the festival, and almost certainly Lyria were keeping those clouds at bay. 

Alouette happily got herself prepared, dress, boots, and corset all on and secured. She waffled about on her harness, but there really was no telling if they would be attacked again, or if something would need her to suddenly be mobile. It wasn't that she couldn't deal with it, it was that she would prefer not to if she didn't have to. She was... quite a bit more developed than the last time that she'd been to the festival, and if she didn't want every person with eyes gawking, it was probably for the best to have it and adjust as necessary. Though, first she worried about putting the bright blue orchid into her hair, a shift from the white of yesterday, and the same kind of flower that she wore each birthday. "Lorelei should probably be up already... I shoul--hmm?" A knock at her door, and a voice she hadn't expected to come to her announced herself, requesting her for something. "Oh, uh, hold on a moment, I'll be right there." She continued fiddling with the harness as she walked over, and pulled open the door, "A request? What exactly could I help you with?" 

[scorri]

Luce gave one last look in the mirror before snapping their makeup kit shut with a satisfied smile. This would do for the show. The dancer gave a twirl, smiling at the reflection. The travel clothes of yesterday were gone, replaced by wide gauzy pants, just barely not see through, a tight cropped shirt and an intricately woven sheer scarf draped over the cat's arms. The pants and shirt were both a muted gold, contrasting with deep indigo of the scarf, though there were flashes of gold in it as well, where the embroidered stars and moons peeked out of the folds. They had done their makeup to match, deep indigo eye shadow blending into the thick black eyeliner, a muted red lipstick, and rather than blush, a sprinkling of golden freckles scattered across their cheeks and the bridge of their nose. It was certainly enough to grab attention, which was the point of the look. Tail flicking in satisfaction, they strolled out of their room, makeup kit securely tucked into a satchel they brought with them in case there was a need for any touch ups before the show. 

Wandering down the hall, they spotted Ichika outside Alouette's door, but continued on with a simple smile and wave. It was unlikely the swordswoman was interested in talking to them right now, and they had stirred that pot enough already. Instead, they kept going a bit further and then knocked on another door. "Oh Nate~ I was hoping you might have some time to chat. I would love to get to know our second in command~"

[Nanami Touko]

"Good morning." Ichika bowed slightly, adjusting her hair again as she straightened back up. "If it is not too much trouble for you, Alouette, I would like to request that you show me around this town. You seemed familiar with Eve and some of the other people while we were eating, so I hope it is not too much of a stretch to assume that you are aware of the city to some degree. It is my first time here-- as it will be my first time anywhere we end up going, but I will not trouble you to lead me around every city... Simply, well... Mmm. This is embarrassing to admit. But, I have to if I am to move forward with this. Ahem." Ichika nodded and bowed again, sighing.

"As we are similarly endowed, I felt that I would be more comfortable having someone watch my back as for any wandering and unwanted eyes. And I offer the same to you... If you are amiable to such a request. Being my guide, and each of us keeping eyes open for the other." She squirmed just a tad, looking away some, clearly not too comfortable being so blunt, but it was necessary, she felt.

[GoldsbroTSG]

Taka's morning was quick. The previous evening wasn't anything more stressful than Taka had done previously, thus she slept as soundly as she could. When she awoke, she was quick to suit up, and equipped herself with a cloak; worn to keep her weapons and equipment hidden. Protection for her charges; nothing more. She stretched herself out, trying to get herself in top shape for the morning. There was supposed to be a festival this day, Taka would observe, but wasn't gonna be sure she could enjoy it.

"Mmm..." She stared out the window briefly. The people gathering meant it was something to be excited for. The ninja wouldn't be. At least, now she wouldn't.

The girl left her room, preparing to head out herself, but she thought to herself, Princess Yukari said to acquaint with people. "Hmm," as she walked out the door of their inn, she found a nearby bench. She'd wait for the next of her party to leave. That way, she could acquaint. And protect them should something go wrong.

[TheRoon]

Nathan had finished preparing for the day ahead after some exercise in his room. He had a long look in the mirror as he finished dressing himself in his usual pants, shirt and coat. "Hm...how to approach a girl like that." He thought for a moment. "I'm probably the last thing on her mind, given she lives here and probably wants to catch up...I could meet her at the Baroque house. Maybe..." Before he could finish his plans for the day he heard a knock on the door and turned to it. "Oh, you were Luce." He spoke up and opened the door. "Eve's uh...cat." He took a good look at Luce, and wasn't entirely sure what to make of them. "I guess I technically would be second in command, aha. That's something to get used to." He smiled a little as he eyed Ichika and Ali for a brief moment. "Sure, I got time." He turned back. I'll find her later then.

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"You seem to be in high spirits today." A familiar man walked up to Mikhail when he entered the residential area. It was his dear friend Alister, still dressed in his nice suit. "I have some time off, I figured I'd spend some of it with you." He smiled as he stepped up. "If you aren't tired of your prince that is. Though I have to ask, what were your plans today? Just a tour of the town? I spent enough time in Isolde to know my way around so I can help in that regard at least."

[MRDRHAWK]

Miles had seemed to be able to slip towards the entrance of the inn without being accosted, which was nice, at least. There would be much more time to indulge in the company of the others, but today, he had some time to himself, and he intended to take it. He gave a quick greeting to Lord Alister and Mikhail as he left, before rolling his shoulders.

”Right… where to first? Mm, now I wish I had a guide of some sort, to recommend some things. How vexing.” Miles decided that his first order of business would be to find a fortune teller - he’d heard that they were a novel thing, and he had always been curious about what he could learn. Besides, with such an important task ahead after the festival, Miles wanted as much foresight as he could get.