A Dinner Party for Royals

[Noku Noru]

The Dinner so far seemed to be going accordingly to how it was originally planned out. Guests were beginning to pour into the ballroom one by one and Noku barely looked up from where he sat. His lips moved, yet no sound came. Dread overtaking the King. The noble voices of his court drowning out the silence.

Noku was beginning to have a headache when two familiar voices caught his attention. Duchess Melda Vanya and Duchess Aria wurud had approached him with intent to conversate. Aria leading with a ' You look chipper ' and Melda's attempt to make him feel better made him lift his gaze to meet theirs. In that brief moment, His eyes seemed hollow, deprived of sleep as though it's eluded him for days.

Noku was about to speak to the two when a looming presence caught his attention approaching at a fast rate. When he looked over at the towering figure, Noku's gaze met with Galahads. A bitter expression forming on his features as he stared up at the older gentleman who called him out on his manners. Oh, how he hated this man...

" Forgive me, King Galahad; I did not wish to offend you by not being the first to open my mouth. " Noku responded, getting up from his chair and standing upright. A pleasant, but forced smile visible on his features. He looked past Galahad, his gaze searching the room for any sign of a way out of this. His search not taking long when Lilith came into view just beyond Galahad within a crowd. He couldn't tell if she was watching him or not.

Noku refrained from looking Galahad in the eye, his gaze focused on his guest and Lilith, who seemed preoccupied. A frown appearing on his lips in a sign of frustration. He was conflicted on what to do. Should he call Lilith over or allow her to mingle a little more. Either way, Noku dare not show any more emotion in front of his uncle. His new chief breaking the tension by calling out that the dinner was ready to be served.

[Deleted]

❊ BACK TO NEVERLAND ❊

Lilith’s eyes were wide, taking in the room around her- it was terrifying. There were people everywhere. Though decorated beautifully, Lilith hated the room, and wanted to bolt out immediately. She was so scared. This was the first official event she would be attending with Noku. After today she would no longer be “That woman who hangs around the king a lot.” Instead it would probably be, “that commoner who thinks she’ll be Queen,” or some other kind of slanderous rumour. Aveline had clearly scared her shitless. Her breathing was shallow as she forced herself to concentrate. She couldn’t leave, that would be wrong for multiple reasons. Just breathe. 

As Lilith took her time to regulate her breathing, a familiar voice broke her concentration. She looked over to see Yuki, dressed wonderfully, beside her. Oh, h-hello Lady Yuki. Lilith turned her body and curtsied to her, as was customary- she wasn’t above her in ranking technically… She sounded just as nervous as Lilith felt, and it was soothing. You look very beautiful. That colour brings out your eyes. Lilith added, her voice trembling lightly. 

Another presence joined them as the elderly Duchess Vanya greeted them. It was clear to her that Lilith was the add on, that Lady Vanya had come to speak with Yuki, but she didn’t mind. The older woman made her uncomfortable anyways. She curtsied to her as well, having heard that the Duchess was big on manners. T-thank you Duchess Vanya. Your dress is magnificent… Lilith was not big on compliments, not when it came to clothing. She knew how to appreciate it from time to time, but her brain had all but shut off the moment she walked through the door. Yet again another woman approached their now forming group, someone that Lilith had yet to formally meet. 

The castle healer? Oh… word hadn’t spread as fast as she thought it had.She supposed that was a good thing. O-oh, yes. Uhm. I guess I’m new… I’ve been working here since last spring… Thank you though, I found it at this lovely little shop in the merchant district. It was locally made surprisingly enough. Lilith had been surprised that she’d found it, when it hadn’t been made for such an event- the seamstress was just really into formal patterns. She knew the woman was asking because someone like her shouldn’t be able to afford it, but she didn’t mind too much. Assumptions were normal. During this time, no doubt the other women would be talking, Lilith glanced around the room, her eyes locking with Noku’s for a moment. Her mouth slowly opened as a puff of air left her, her nerves calming for the briefest of moments. She was here because he wanted her to be. Just keep thinking about that. When he frowned, Lilith tilted her head to the side, wondering why he looked so down. Of course she didn’t expect him to enjoy this event, but of him to look that down… 

When Ansley looked horrified, Lilith looked in that general direction, having to hide a smirk when Aria sassed one of the kings. She had assumed it would be Noku, but instead it was a far older looking man… if Lilith had to guess, it was Galahad. That explained most of Noku’s dampened look. Silas was too young to look so old. Still looking over, Lilith saw Aria beckoning her over. If you’ll excuse me… Lilith curtsied once more, making her exit. As she walked slowly, another man entered the room, causing her to stop in her tracks. Sima. Of course he would be catering this… Aria must have told Noku about his cooking- she doubted his little outburst at the festival so long ago was the way he’d found out about it. Lilith certainly didn’t tell him. Ironically enough, he glanced her way as well, and she knew him well enough to see that change in his eyes. He hadn’t known she’d be there…. Lilith felt a lump in her throat- it wasn’t from guilt, or longing… it was sadness for him. They’d left on such awful terms… she’d never meant to hurt him. She didn’t feel bad for moving on with her life- she felt terrible that he didn’t seem to be moving on with his- not romantically anyhow. She didn’t expect him to so easily, but with the way he looked at her just now… she knew his heart was still in pieces. It felt wrong, hers being so intact, so strong, so much so that she was prepared to give it away to another again, while his was still so shattered. 

She picked up her courage again and kept walking- it had only been half a minute or so. She connected with Aria, only a few feet from Noku now, a small smile on her face. Aria, that dress… honestly, it’s stunning. She looked to Noku now, nerves clear on her face. She really didn’t know what to do, but she was happy to have her friend here. She looked at Noku again, offering a shy smile to him. You look very handsome... She said softly, trying to get some sort of smile on his otherwise chilling face. Even if it didn't work, she wouldn't mind- he was probably more on edge than she was.

WORDS:--- TAGS: @tag NOTES: EDITED

SHIN OF GS + ADOX

[Lucinda Noru]

Lucinda watched as all the guest began to arrive, until finally Noku himself entered. She bowed with everyone else as he was announced, noting the unpleasant countenance he carried. She didn’t blame him at all. Her attention was pulled from watching what was technically her cousin as her brother arrived with King Galahad, her real uncle.

She smiled as Silas beckoned her over, dropping a curtsy for the two of them. “Good evening, Uncle Galahad. Hello, dear brother. It’s good to see you again, my lord. It really has been too long,” she greeted both of them. A light blush rose to her cheeks at their praise in her choice of dress. “Thank you, it is quite a lovely dress. Our dear cousin has good taste, indeed. I shall have to thank him again for this,” she said politely and pleased.

Silas’s attention turned briefly on Aria and she listened as he introduced her. Despite everything, he still seemed to have some pride in claiming Aria as his part of his court. Uncle Galahad’s comment about Noky brought an amused look to Lucinda’s face. “Lady Wurud has quite the gift with drakes, Uncle. This one will surprise you indeed,” she said, smiling. “Speaking of, though, Lady Wurud it is a pleasure to see you out and about. I’m glad you’re looking better and that dress is beautiful,” she added, addressing Aria directly.

Lucinda watched as Aria made her way over to Noku, discreetly slipping him a flask of something. The princess smiled before noting the look on her dear cousin’s face as Uncle Galahad finally reached him. A mask of calm dropped onto her face as the older man chastised Noku for his lack of manners. He really wasn’t that pleasant to be around. She listened without saying much as the conversation progressed, absently noting other familiar people in the large room.

[Silas Noru]

”You truly look well yourself Uncle; and I suppose not.” He beamed with pride from the compliment his Uncle gave. However as it often was when there was anything involving their cousin his tone would change to that of disgust. Silas often wondered what caused the man to dislike their cousin so much; Noku after all was fairly successful as a King. But his wiser half held him back from ever asking; he for one did not want to fall on Uncles bad side. Best let his dislike lie solely with his dear cousin.

Aria’s response did not surprise him, even during her short time in Palico he noticed the girls unusual motivation for food. His eyes trailed back to the drake who was at the girls side….significantly tamer in her presence. Why the drake hadn’t gone with the woman in the first place was beyond him; it was a nightmare to keep around without the phiorics control over it. Completely wiped any thoughts of taking any more drake eggs from wild bred drakes. Silver lining on that however was it would be extremely lucrative to be able to sell captive born drakes to which were a bit to docile for the army. His attention turned back to his sister as she joined them. A large grin taking place of the frown that had formed when he had spotted the drake. His sister certainly was a gem of his court; but the attention for his sister was only momentary when his Uncle commented about the beast by his duchess’s side. His lips pursing at the sassy remark that fallowed. However he did have confidence that her claims would be fallowed through now even if it was just out of spite to prove his uncle wrong. ”Uncle Galahad; the reason I insisted Lady Wurud join my courts was for her unique ability with drakes. She’s a phioric of the highest standards…and you know how much trouble phiorics give us on the northern border. She’s proved her worth already with the drakes she has trained and continues to do so. I even had a demonstration of her abilities at her coronation with a number of fully grown untamed drakes. It was truly spectacular.” He paused for a moment as his sister only confirmed what he said. Lady Wurud was a part of his court, and he’d only accept the highest of standards.

”Also Lady Wurud is working on a project for me; I really was going to wait to announce it. But seeing how Palico’s house dragons for the royal line are the envy of many nobles; I hope to breed a tamer more docile form of drake. If Lady Wurud is successful with this drake than we shall continue forward with the project; tonight will be a perfect example.” He glanced at the phioric daring her to disagree to such a plan in front of his uncle. He watched as the girl dismissed herself and the drake obediently fallowed closely beside her. Which allowed him to turn his attention onto his sister; whom had done well to defend a member of their court. After all his court was a direct reflection on him.

They finally made their way to Noku’s table, a smile quickly plastering itself on his face. Though he looked distracted as if searching for something as he spoke to their uncle. He turned his attention to Aria and Duchess Vanya. ”Good evening Cousin Noku and Duchess Vanya” He smiled; he remembered her from when he was a young boy visiting Nova with his parents. It was nice to see familiar faces. It was not long after that the chef joined them. It would seem dinner was about to be served. ” While it seems dinner is about to be served, Lady Aria won’t you be my dinner partner for the evening?” This would mean the girl would have to stay where he could keep a close eye on her…

[Deleted]

Leon walked around the hall as he listened to all the other guests talk and interact with each other, as he heard various names mentioned he at least was able to have a mental note of who they were but right now he wasn’t sure what he should do. He did notice one person which was a shock to him, the ‘servent’ that showed him the way when he first arrived, recalling her name was yuki. though since she was here it seemed that most likely she was a noble. Wanting to approach her and ask about it he realized she was with some other guests and didn’t want to become a bother. He was also not able to approach most of the people seeing they were all already engaged in some chatter. He looked around and noticed the drake on one side and noticed an wave of tension brush around the area. Wondering what was happening he noticed someone walk in announcing the food was done and after that the tension broke almost instantly as everyone seemed to gather around the tables. Walking around the area Leon wondered what would be served especially in an event such like this.

[Yuki D'Avranches]

Yuki calmed down a little bit happy that at least someone else was as nervous was she was it was a relieve. When Lilith curtsied she almost wanted to tell her that she didn't have to but given they setting she couldn't really ask her to not to since it was formal. "T-Thank you Miss Lilith. I love your dress, it compliments your figure."

She quickly spotted Melda heading toward them, it made her start having a panic attack on the inside wondering if maybe she did something wrong. It was one of the reasons she hated and avoided social events like this she felt like her every action was being judged along with the actions of her family. It made her feel nervous and a lot smaller than she was it was bad enough that her hormonal level had finally settled since the fall that she felt more like a full person than just half. Once Melda was close enough Yuki smiled at her then curtsied to the duchess. "Good Evening Duchess Vanya." The offer of her sitting next to the duchess for dinner she couldn't turn it down since it was an honor to be seated closer to someone of higher rank because they asked. "I would be honored to sit next to you." Her nervousness coming out in her voice.


Hearing another voice greeting her Yuki looked and notice that Lady Ansley had decided to join they, little group. It was nice to see someone of the same rank as her at the dinner it was comfortable not in the same comfortable as Lilith but still comforting since it would mean she had someone else to talk to after everyone had eaten. "Good evening Lady Crawford, also thank you. I do love what you did with your hair along with the headpiece it suits you well." Smiling softly at Ansley as she listens to her ask Lilith about her dress. At Lilith's reply, she made a small note to ask Lilith later about the name of the shop that she got the dress at since it was a darling number. Looking around listened to the different conversations that were going on in the room she spotted Aria and her drake Noky she couldn't help but giggle a tiny bit since it was cute and Noky was a sweet drake and from what she has seen when she visited Aria in the infirmary he well behaves. At Aria sassing a king she just nodded her head to Ansley answering her question. "That is Duchess Wurud for you, Lady Crawford, she is an interesting person for sure I like to think that" Taking a moment trying to find the right words to describe Aria. "She is a diamond in the rough."

Seeing that Lady Aria was calling Lilith over she nodded her head as Lilith excused herself to join Lady Aria. As the topic of conversation changed to her having her eyes on any of the eligible men there her cheeks pinken a bit at the thought. Yuki knew that she was well over the age where she could have been married by now or at least being courted by her husband to be. "Uh... there are a few men. Duke Banks he charming." Her eyes scan the room and landed on Leon for a moment her eyes harden upon seeing him, she turned not wanting to look uptight selfish man who ditched his guards to go shoot some arrows and then followed her like a stalker. "Count Jaeger well there is no words for him he is simply just..." Yuki couldn't come up with a single good word about Leon and decided to just let her thought remind unspoken. "What about you Lady Crawford has any of the men caught your eye?."

[Deleted]

    Theo laughed under his breath as his aunt and him exchanged politely. These formal exchanges were not what he was used to around his God mother. But alas, in the circumstances they found themselves in, he had to follow courtesy and speak in such a manner. "Ready? I suppose I ought to be ready since the moment has arrived." Theo, not knowing very many of the royals well, decided to follow his Aunt's lead.

    They wandered over to the king as he slumped in his chair. Theo bowed after duchess Vanya, acknowledging the higher status of the king. As his aunt made a remark to cheer up the king, a smile curled in the corner of theo's mouth. He didn't say much other than a quick greeting of "Good evening my liege, an excellent party thus far." as he didn't know the king quite as well as the rest of the royal party.

    Afterwards, he followed behind his aunt into a group of the female royals. He recognized some of the faces, the young Yuki, Ansley, briefly Aria, but only recognized the elvin woman by face. Theo bowed before the women who looked as stunning as ever, and smiled before the lot of them. "Good evening, you all look as stunning as always." he shared addressing the group. He allowed them to share their exchanges of their costume, and kept silent so that they may share their small talk. He watched as Yuki blushed at the sight of Duchess Vanya. He observed as the women gawked over each-other's gowns and dressings.

    As they chatted, Theo looked over to the men surrounding King Noku. There was an older man who appeared as frightening as he was powerful, and who looked like an older Noru. Theo assumed this to be King Galahad, since his announcement claimed him to be so.

    Theo remained silent, knowing he would have to network, but was timid in the presence of all the nobility.

[Deleted]

Adrain arrived to the Dinner event a short time after people had begun to assemble. As he arrived at the palace, he exhaled a moment as he collected his appearance once more. Formal black pants and a black breast fitted blazer cover him, with a white almost turtleneck like outfit beneath. A silver chain adorned his neck visible to the sides but concealed beneath whilst his hair was combed back but down per long. His eyes glew faintly, but it was only noticeable when in dimmer light. His reputation as a mage would long precede anything else most likely and be of little surprise to the guests here.

Upon arriving, he had checked in with the staff at the front, employing three of them to carry items he had created to the kings for introduction. He had heard rumors Noku was tense about this meeting of Galahad and Silas, and thus decided to make an impression with things of the shiny sort. As Headmaster of the Arch, he also had a duty to impress the patrons of such, while Nova was arguably the primary kingdom in terms of support, Palico and Kanto also had students there and varying contributions from donors to the academy. Doing research, he found that Galahad was something of a warrior and a sailor while Lucinda had mentioned vanity was one of Silas' primary vices. With careful thought and construction, the items to be presented would hopefully appeal to them, as well as the gift for his own liege hopefully being accepted and improving his condition since the times he had seen the king, weariness was usually a prominent feature.

Entering the room, his violet eyes would scan the area, looking around and noting the familiar faces. Iris would have the night off: he knew that she hated going to the castle and chances are she would be browsing a bar or just doing whatever she wants for leisure. In any case, there was a task to be done since the dinner was imminent.

When an opportunity arose, he would approach the gathering of kings, nodding to those of equal or lower rank as he approached and smiled warmly, bowing in the presence of the three kings to maintain respect.

"Good evening your highnesses. I'd like to introduce myself as Duke Adrain Kaiaru, Headmaster of the Arch of Ages and subject of his excellency King Noku. I wanted to present you all with a token of the Arch's appreciation for previous support as well as a welcoming token to the kingdom of my liege." he states, hoping to take some of the pressure off of Noku since he was visibly frustrated, himself having caught Galahad's scolding at a distance.

"For King Galahad a fierce ruler and warrior of the seas.." he states, turning to one of the servants he employed holding a scabbard with a blade within. The scabbard itself made of fine black leather would sheen with enchantment, a pair of white crystals cut and shining light diamond while yet containing power. In the likely event that King Galahad would unsheath the blade, he would see a masterwork boardsword, lightweight, but firm, yet perfect balanced with no blemishes in the craft of the weapon. Platinum and gold line the hilt of the weapon with a large wind crystal in the center of the cross, sheening like an emerald in the light, the ornamentation that of the creset of Kanto.

"I present a blade that I hope you find worthy of your arensal. Crafted to perfection, it would never fail your sword arm in need and capable of blasting a fierce blast of wind with the word Aerus which would either blow your enemy away or power the sails of your vessel in a period of dry winds. The scabbard itself can also emit a powerful light to signal distantly or blind an opponent with the word Luminos. May this serve you well should you find use for it." he states bowing respectfully, then moving to King Silas.

"To his excellency of Palico, King Silas, I offer you this." he states, picking up a masterwork shield from another servant and offering it to him. It would be a platinum alloy lightweight and solid while having the crest of Palico prominent in the center. Ten diamond like crystal pylons would line the edge with a single feather suspended in each. "A masterful drake rider, this shield will protect you from all that you raise it against, and in a time of need it can create a powerful barrier around you with the term Aeygus as the crystal pylons along the edge, infused with the fallen feathers of Helena and bent to use mana in the air to create a nearly indestructible shield for you and your drake or you and a small company. It is inspired by the Princess' wishes for you to always be well as mentioned during tutoring. May it serve you well should you wish it." he states, bowing respectfully as he departed then approaching the king and bowing, picking up the last item, a cloak and kneeling before him to offer it.

"For my liege, I offer you this cloak, created with an enchanted mesh within a silk lining with phoenix feathers lining the center outside whilst recovered feathers of Helena from the siege cleansed and tipped in lightweight gold on the edge. It's properties provide a powerful shield to guard your back at all times, as well as serving as a powerful defense against magic, responding to your will in any time of need without any need of word. It also draws energy from the air to invigorate and rejuvenate you so long as you wear it. I hope this offering is worthy of your tastes, your excellency." then standing once the item was either taken or rejected and bowing respectfully as he stepped back without turning his back to the king.

"It is my hope that this humble offering suits you gentlemen and lords and expresses the Arch's as well as my own deepest gratitude and honor for support of the years past as well as a token of best wishes and warmest welcomes tonight. May the rest of the evening and visit be noteworthy and pleasant." he states, bowing once more. Should he be dismissed he would respectfully step back and look to the area, locating a relatively unoccupied location lest he be beckoned. Of course, were he asked to stay he would oblige knowing that Galahad might revel in tales of battle regarding the Siege and elsewhere or Silas might have comments or discussion regarding Lucinda's tutoring, of course King Noku's own wishes foremost.

[Noku Noru]

Galahad smirked at the confidence of the younger Nobles within this court. The old man’s eyes remaining on the drake for a moment as he wrinkled his nose and looked contempt at the beast. “ I’ll believe in her skills as I see it. To me, a beast is still a beast no matter how tame you think it is. “ Galahad warned, his tone rather un-amused by the claims made on Lady Aria’s un-natural ability to ‘tame’ drakes.

However, Galahad didn’t wish to comment on every single comment made by those who joined in on the conversation. His attention far from the squabbles of gossip; While Galahad’s focus remained on Noku and his own manners. The boy definitely had some sass still left within him; Thankfully the kingdom's problems had not robbed his nephew's spirit. At least he knew the comebacks and the glares would be heavily catered by Noku at this party. Which made his grin seem more pleased with the avoidance of eye contact. Perhaps his nephew was uncomfortable with his presence. A thought that was amusing to the older king; Who mused at the thought of his late dinner guest who hadn’t made their appearance yet. Perhaps when his dear nephew were to see ‘her’ again, his attitude would lighten to at least be somewhat enjoyable to be around.

Or at least that was the thought, until an unfamiliar woman approached and addressed Noku.
It was almost like a wave; Galahad clearly noticing the change in Noku’s demeanor the moment she spoke. Fascinated, Galahad remained silent and watched as people began to join in.

Meanwhile, Noku began to relax the moment Lilith began walking towards them. His golden eyes locked upon her as he continued to successfully ignore his uncle. “ My dear, you look absolutely divine this evening. “ Noku spoke softly and with a warm smile. His smile still kept on his features; even as more seem to approach and gather around the kings. One in particular, The Headmaster of the Arch of Ages, Adrain Kaiaru had caught Galahad’s and Noku’s attention.

Galahad smiled at the offering and gave the nobleman Kaiaru a hearty laugh of appreciation. “ Now that is what I call a gift. “ The old man chuckled, allowing his servants to take the gift in his stead and have it returned to his ship for safe keeping. While Noku also showed signs of gratitude as he silently stared at the cloak with a bit of wonderment. He too allowed his servants to retrieve his gift from the nobleman Kaiaru, nodding at the noble and his generosity.

“ Head Master Kaiaru, You have done a fantastic job maintaining the wellness and teachings of the Arch Academy. I hope to continue to see more impressive things from you. Your gift shall be added with my personal treasures, The kingdom and I are grateful.” Noku spoke, thanking Adrain and gave a respectful bowing nod to the headmaster. Noku then turned his gaze back to Lilith, carefully stepping around Galahad and took his place beside Lilith. A bold move, but one he wanted the members of his court - and out of his court - to see.

It was also at this exact moment; That more of Galahad’s soldier’s had entered the room. Their entrance introduced a more feminine figure into the ballroom. The unannounced guest hidden by a white shaw and robes meant to conceal the identity of the obvious female humanoid. The moment she stepped further into the room, the body guards backed off and exited the dinner party.

“ Ah yes! My dinner Guest has arrived! Lord Noku I give you Lady Ven~” Galahad’s introduction trailed off, The speech cut short when he noticed the cloaked figure refused to step any closer. In fact, the figure seemed to only approach at a slow and hesitant pace. “ … I see you’ve found another to fall for, Dove.” The cloak woman spoke, interrupting Galahad for the moment. Her voice sounding like honey but her tone seemed rather off, perhaps a bit of jealousy towards the maiden next to the King of Nova. It was then that the woman removed her hood, revealing locks of beautiful golden curls and sapphire eyes. Her skin alabaster and smooth like a dolls, seemed almost divine compared to any normal noblewoman standing before the Kings and other noblemen and women.


(( Sorry its so jumpy! So much to catch up to and going on! ha ))

[Deleted]

Noky’s eyes narrows as he recognized the word beast; he may not understand everything the hairy man was saying but he could tell the tone and the word were in the negative range. His glare continued untill Aria grabbed both sides of her drakes face while making cute cooing noises at him ”ooooo Who’s mama’s big bad beastie” To which she got an elicited high pitch wine and a puff of smoke blown into her face. Causing her to chuckle and pat his head. For the most part he was a good drake. Aria looked up as Silas took the moment to inform her that there would be yet another project for her to work on. Actually….she might enjoy this project a bit more; she nodded in agreement. ”I’m looking forward to the project” Lucinda came to her aid as well in regards to Noky; Noky could tell he was being praised and made sure to go and great the princess with a light head butt and a flicker of his reptilian tongue on her cheek.

Aria smiled as Lucinda complimented on her dress along with being glad to see her out and about. ”Noky is still helping with the out and about part; haven’t quite got my strength back yet and I tire easily. However I think I shall be fine for this dinner. As for dress thank you; yours looks lovely as well.”

As Melda came up to great Noku Aria gave her a large smile; happy to see the older woman. She remained quiet as she talked to the king taking the small moment of silence to observe the others in the room. However that silences was quickly ended as Galahad, and Silas also made their way over to the table….Really no wonder Noku didn’t like his Uncle. The tension however was relieved a bit as Lilith approached; looking nervous and understandably so. But Nokus face most definitely lit up and his demeanor changed as Lilith approached. It was lovely to see the reaction she had on him. Aria once again received a lovely comment on her dress, causing her to beam. Normally she wouldn’t be so happy to have a dress complimented but this was a gift from her family; and a compliment to it was a compliment to them. ”Thank you, my father and the rest of my adopted family gave it to me in celebration of making it until my twentieth birthday. I was lucky enough to be wearing this when I was fated over. Your dress is lovely to; I like the blue.”

Aria’s face brightened when Sima came over saying food was ready to start being served; however she did cast a worried glance towards Lilith. She had suggested Sima’s catering before she had known about the unfortunate circumstances between Lilith and Sima. However circumstances or not one could not deny Sima’s cooking was exquisite. She turned her attention back to Sima with a large smile. ”Blue eyes! Did you bring me something a bit extra” She batted her eyelashes; trying her luck at begging for a bit of sweets from him. However her begging was cut short when Silas asked if she would be his dinner partner….well damn…. She gave a small bow to Silas ”It would be my pleasure.” she said very much lying through her teeth. She subtlety took the moment to snag back her flask she had offered Noku. She’d be needing this tonight.

Aria watched as Adrain arrived…..and with gifts! Were you suppose to bring gifts? If so she’d have to pull some out of her ass real quick. Though before she did anything she would observe others reactions before deciding whether or not she had made a big oppsies in not knowing to bring something. Adrain did well on the sword; and the shield would be useful for Silas. As he presented his gifts Aria took a small swig from her flask; only to end up choking a bit on her sip as Adrain presented the last gift. A cloak made with the feathers she had given him as his midwinter present…….Aria stared at him with a expression that clearly said REALLLY! YOU GAVE HIM THAT! Really not only did he give away a gift that she had given him as another present but also gave something to Noku to wear that was partially made out of her! Aria turned her attention back to Noku ”…Would you look at that, your cape matches my festival of the gods dress.”

Another distraction was given when Galahad introduced……VEN!? Arias eyes once more widen to saucers; quickly followed by a grin and a look of great relief. Vennessa was still alive and ok! ”VENESSA! You’re ok! Oh thank the all father! Do you know how many people I have out looking for you!! Well two but that’s beside the point……waiiiitt” Aria looked back over to Noku ”Did she just call you dove?”

[Deleted]

❊ BACK TO NEVERLAND ❊

Lilith didn’t miss it when Noku’s eyes locked with hers- it had her heart feel like it had skipped a few hundred beats. As she got close enough that he could speak to her, her skin flushed in colour, turning a light pink, like a spring rose. Oh my… Thank you… Was all she managed to utter she her tongue got caught in her own mouth. He complimented her often, but it had never been in front of his family before. 

She turned to Aria, nodding as she explained where her dress had come from. Well your family chose beautifully. I’ve never seen you so happy to be in a dress. And thank you… A woman in the second district made it for me. She smiled, playing with the side of her skirt nervously. She watched as Aria jumped to Sima, bantering with him as they always did. She turned away quickly enough, not wanting to seem like she was staring at him- for her sake and Noku’s. It seemed he would be ignoring her anyhow. 

Melda watched very skillfully at all the happenings in the room, her eyes trained like a hawk. You never knew who would say what when at these events. As Silas greeted her, she bowed respectfully, greeting him in return. She’d watched him grow into a King as well- though vastly different from Noku. She saw as the young Count Jaeger arrived late- not too much of a surprise there. Turning back to Yuki, she smiled with a curt nod. Perfect. You will be on my left, and Theo darling, you’ll be on my right? She wanted to give him the option, but she would enjoy having his company. As the girls went on to babble about boys, Melda went back to observing the crowd, only tuning in again when she heard “Duke Bankes.” Oh? She turned her eyes on Yuki, unsure of whether or not she wanted to encourage that thought, or diminish it. Instead she settled for neither, waiting for Yuki to respond again first. 

As the headmaster appeared, both Lilith and Melda looked at him in interest- Melda a little more so. The gifts were presented, and Melda felt as though she should pat him on the back- it was certainly a good way to introduce yourself to the court. Noku seemed to think so as well, giving his thanks to the silver haired mage. Melda watched, mildly stunned as their King then moved away from his older uncle, standing beside his young elven companion- who blushed even more furiously. Lilith looked up at him, stunned on her own accord. She’d know he planned on telling people at this dinner, yet she couldn’t help but want to melt into a puddle; it was the attention she would need to get used to. 

Melda took a step away from her small bundle of gossiping woman, and Theo as well, though he could easily follow her should he wish to, and approached Duke Kaiaru. So I see the rumours are true; you do know how to clean up nicely. She smiled softly, careful of who she was facing as she wasn’t particularly well known for smiling at all, let alone at such a public event.

Both women turned as the doors opened once more, King Galahad becoming especially pleased as they did. Melda narrowed her eyebrows, remembering this woman from many years ago. She remained silent, preferring to watch the events unfold first. Lilith however, was more curious at first, wondering why most people in the room had gone silent at the arrival of this Lady Ven. Her curiosity turned to confusion as the woman stepped closer, speaking words she didn’t understand at first. Thankfully, Aria burst out the question so Lilith didn’t have to. Why did she call Noku dove? As she removed her hood, Lilith paled, knowing for fact that Lady Ven was beyond stunning, and under any other circumstance, she’d want to draw the beautiful features on her face- but right now she feared her for some reason. 

WORDS:--- TAGS: NOTES: From both Melda and Lilith’s perspective.

SHIN OF GS + ADOX

[Deleted]

    Theo looked to his God mother, and nodded with civility. "Of course Madame Vanya." he said with a handsome smile forming on his face. Theo then looked to Yuki, and smiled at her. "I didn't know that you were being tutored by my God Mother." he also bowed his head to Yuki. "I'll look forward to seeing you more often in that case." he said. Theo watched his God mother leave the group, and decided to stay behind and talk to the group of women. Theo didn't want to be seen as the shy boy who followed his dear godmother around incessantly, scared to do things on his own. Instead he decided to stay amongst the group of respectable women, and strike up conversation with the lot of them. Theo was indeed one of the few bachelors in the royal circle who was to be looking for a suitable partner. However, Theo was a shy man, who only grew more shy when it came to courting. Theo decided to set aside the idea for now, and just speak to his friends.

    Theo's eyes averted to the doors when Galahad, his soldiers and an absolutely stunning woman followed suit. Theo tried not to stare, but wow was she beautiful. Almost goddess-like... Then it kind of hit Theo. Nonetheless, Theo watched as Adrain gave them each a gift. Theo had a moment of panic, he never thought to bring a gift. He didn't think it was necessary. Theo would calm himself and look back to Yuki for conversation.

[Yuki D'Avranches]

Yuki nodded head smiling, going by the now unofficial seating plan Lady Melda would be on her right which meant that on her left would be open. She wasn’t fond of the idea having to sit near Count Jaeger, for now, she would just play it by ear. “Ahh yes, Duchess Vanya has been tutoring me.” Replying to Theo before looking around the room everyone was smiling and having fun, though Yuki did wonder how many of those smiles were real or just a mask to hide behind in public events like this one. As she was looking around she saw Adrain approached the Kings and presented each of them with a gift. “Sir Kaiaru sure knows how to make an impression.”



Listening to the conversation as everything became drop silent and everyone looked towards the door. Turning to see who had entered it was a female in an elegant cloak as she walked the slow steps Yuki felt a bit envy of the woman for having that kind of grace that she could only dream of. When the woman removed her hood she saw those beautiful golden curls that she could only dream of obtaining with her own hair though she became awestruck. The woman her eyes were the more beautiful shade of blue that Yuki felt that she shouldn’t be gazing upon such beautiful. Looking away from the woman and allow her mind to be distracted by other things. “Lord Banks, how has business been?” She asked remembering that Theo’s family was another one that did trades though she didn’t remember what the business was off the top of her head. Plus she figured it was safe topic none the less.