Fantasy The Death of Count Airien // CLOSED

[ZombieBaee]

Whenever a death occurs there are always questions. How? Why? However in some cases you must also ask who...

In the kingdom of Stonevale when the Count is found dead the night of a wonderful party, no one sheds a tear, but everyone is intrigued. It wasn’t the least bit surprising that foul play was indicated, since the dear Count wasn’t a very good man, bu who had finallly ended the man?

That was exactly what his late wife, Brielle the Countess of Stonevale, chose to find out. Many had opportunity that very evening but not one single guest had clear memories of the evening. Something very strange had occurred indeed.... So she invited those who were the most suspicious to help her hunt down the killer, invited them into the castle to stay with her until the wrong doer is caught. LIttle do they know she’s really going to be investigating them. -loosely based on The Arcana-

 

[KAYDEN]

Warrin

Ever since the Count's death the castle had been calm and peaceful. There was no more sneaking around and no more of the Count's need for constant entertainment. Before the servants would be running crazily around trying to ensure everything went smoothly but with the Countess in control, everything was easier. Her meals were simpler, smaller. She entertained herself most days and overall was less high strung. Warrin missed the chaos.... no, he missed his friend. Airien was his friend, lover and Count. It was a strange feeling that constantly had a hold on Warrin's heart, part of him was relieved and felt free but the other half was sad and lonely. But today... today was different. The castle was abuzz with activity as everyone prepared for the Countess' guests to arrive. Warrin and another servant were among them. The other being Elora, a woman Warrin loathed thanks to the Count's fixation with her. The two had been invited to help the capture of the Count's murderer more than likely due to the Countess' keen eyes and wit, knowing that the two servants were the Count's... favorites.

Warrin entered the ballroom with light steps, careful to not make noise in the room he knew would echo like crazy. Insticntivley he took his place against the tall gilded walls, his plain brown shoes and pants looking out of place against the wonderful marble floors as always. He wore a loose green sweater on top that showed a bit if the tattoos on his chest and neck. His mousy brown hair was short on the sides and long on top but swept cleanly back and out of his green eyes.

No one else was here yet but Warrin could hear the bustle of the servants and cooks in the other room as they prepared the dining room for the welcome feast. Is this what the nobles did? Sit around and wait for others to wait on them... it felt gross.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Elora

Elora had never felt such relief as she did when she heard of the Counts death. It was harsh to say, but with the Counts age being a few years her senior she grew up around him learning how to serve him. Since she could remember he had always been very aware of Elora's presence, and it never failed to make her feel uneasy. It wasn't her job to say anything, it was his castle and he was allowed to do what he wanted. She grinned and bared it. The last year, however, the count had become more aggressive.

Who could blame her for feeling relief over his death?

It didn't feel good to be part of the group summoned by the Countess. Did she suspect all of the guests? That meant she was a suspect...and she was right to include Elora. She couldn't account for most of the day. It was a mystery. Elora would have never done anything to harm him though...would she? She was such a peaceful person. She'd just have to prove her innocence.

Gently she fixed the collar as she looked at herself in the mirror. She wasn't considered staff during the investigation so the Countess provided her a room and clothes. She was dressed in a long sleeved knee length black dress with a white collar and black flats that had been provided for her. For once she didn't look like part of the staff. But...it was all she knew. This was going to be difficult for her.

Elora made her way to the ballroom and felt her heart sink to her stomach when she noticed Warrin. For some reason he resented her and she didn't know why. She was always so helpful and eager to do things for others, she didn't know why he didn't like her. "Hello, Warrin. Beautiful day, isn't it?" Elora smiled gently over at him and tucked a few strands of loose raven hair behind her pale ear.

 

[EclipseRosee]

Cataz

This whole thing was rubbish that Cataz wanted nothing to do with. But when you pass out drunk outside of a dead mans death bed, there's more than a few questions. Ever since his wife's death six years ago , drunk had been his normal state, it was the only way to numb the pain that came from being around the castle. This was where she died on the night of a party they were invited too. Cataz was a fool to believe that it was an innocent invite after he and his late wife had refused to move in as "entertainment" to the Count and Countess. They wanted a magician in their ranks... and the Count wanted another woman in his bed. When the arrived they were instantly separated until Cataz was lead to her dead body and told he was to either become the wizard they asked for or they would imprison him until he died... both options were the same, one just allowed a nicer bed.

The 6'6 well built man stumbled his way into the ballroom, bottle in hand that was filled with red wine and tucked away in a leather pouch that matched the brown leather vest that was pulled over his billowy black shirt. His long legs were covered with a pair of tan pattered pants and black leather boots that made him look much more pirate than wizard. His long black hair was yanked into a bun that looked like a child did it.

"Oi looky here! It's the help turned noble!" Cataz hiccuped as he spoke, his intense eyes falling on the two near the wall as he took another sip. "Ain't it nice to let loose finally. Though not too loose! Ya might be mistaken for a cold blooded killer around these halls!"

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Delphina

Mystic blue eyes stared up at the castle as she entered it, a soft gentle smile greeting the workers of the castle. "Good day." The blonde haired beauty of a Priestess bowed her head to everyone, her intricate white dress falling slightly above her knees as her white heels tapped against the marble flooring of the castle as she was escorted to the ballroom. Despite Delphina's calm demeanor inside she felt...well, she felt nervous. Delphina has always been accountable for her actions. Suddenly she wasn't able to recall one night? One night that was significantly important? She felt completely useless, and honestly a little terrified.

This investigation would help clear things up. It had to, for the sake of justice. Not only would it help their memory, but it would root out evil hiding in the kingdom. Most of the people being summoned were influential people in the kingdom save for the some servants, and if one of them were evil? It was Delphina's job to rid them of that evil. so was the case with the blessed dagger strapped to the inside of her thigh by a white leather holster.

Staff opened the ballroom doors and allowed Delphina to walk inside, her bright eyes looking from Warrin to Elora. "Oh, my children. I'm sorry for the loss of your Count." A frown crossed her perfect lips when she noticed Cataz being his usual drunken self. She remembered what he was like before his wife passed. He was so happy, and oh so sweet. Now...now he was a drunken mess. He was trying to bury the pain and it broke her heart. "Cataz, dear. You haven't come to the church to see me in a while. Everything okay?" They used to talk, but lately he seemed to have gotten worse...it truly broke her heart.

 

[Sir Damien]

Aldus

A long sigh passed the lips of the 6 foot Witch Doctor that stood in front of the mirror, his hands fussing with a gray and black silk tie around his neck. He hated leaving his shop. It was small, quiet, and had the perfect sign out front that read "Doctor". He lived in the back of the shop and worked on new medicine and his investigation. And leaving for the death of a Count he couldn't care less about? It didn't interest him. He was dead, the kingdom needed to move on. The count was a despicable human being and everyone knew it and did nothing about it. Aldus had seen what he was capable and it was disgusting. Honestly? Aldus was glad that creep was dead.

Aldus picked up his plague mask and contemplated putting it on. However, it didn't go with his outfit. He was in a black suit over a white buttoned down shirt with black shoes. As much as a quiet asshole Aldus was he did appreciate aesthetics and style. He set the mask down on the counter and ran his hand through his messy brown hair, locking the door behind him as he left.

Once he got to the castle he stayed quiet as they escorted him to the ballroom, his hands casually resting in the silk pockets of the suit. He sighed heavily when he seen Cataz flopping about the large room acting a fool. "Cataz, you are the court wizard, not the court drunk. Delphina, stop babying him." His piercing blue eyes narrowed at the both of them. He didn't care about the investigation at all, but if he was going to participate he'd rather not have a giant stumble around the whole time.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Caine

Since the passing of the Count Caine had been a nervous wreck, and that was completely unlike him. Caine had been the counts personal guard for the past 8 years, always by his side and always protecting him. 2 years ago the Count sent him to lead a crusade and he had only been back for a week before the man he swore his sword to was murdered. The worst part? Caine had no memory of the incident. Had Caine been nearby? Since he was back he hadn't left the Count's side. Then suddenly he dies and he has no recollection of the incident? He felt like all eyes were on him and he couldn't blame them. He had to be at fault, he failed the Count.

Him and his new partner.

That part confused him, too. If Caine had failed that had meant Aiden had failed, too. The boy seemed so strong minded and focused, there was no way he would neglect his duty! A knock on the door pulled Caine from his thought process, his red eyes looking up at the door. "Master Caine, it's time to gather in the ballroom." Quickly he stood up and ran his hand through his shoulder length dirty blonde locks, his eyes giving his handsome self a look over in the mirror. He was dressed in a deep gray stylish suit with a black undershirt, his features as perfect as ever. "I'm coming." He grabbed the heavy sheathed sword and swung it from the left side of his hip before walking to the door, following the servant down to the ballroom. His mind was racing with how they'd execute him. Most likely guillotine. Would that even work? Would that be the thing capable of killing the "knight ?

He walked into the grand ballroom and gave a radiant, charming smile to everyone. Caine was a very chaismatic womanizer, and despite how stressed and worried he was of being found guilty he had to push it down and act not guilty. "My, will the two of you beauties be here the whole time?" His red eyes glanced over at Cataz for a moment and let out a long sigh. How embarrassing.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Airiette

The next morning after her brother's death Airiette was a mixture of emotions. Part of her was so thrilled that justice had finally found that evil man but the other part of her angry because she couldn't remember if she had finally done it. This had been her life goal, the thing that kept her motivated and the only thing that mattered to her. Airiette didn't live on water and air she lived on the idea of finally getting justice for her mother and eldest brother. Now... that was gone. What did she do now? Airiette, or rather Aiden, had made a name here in Stonevale. Aiden was a hero, an amazing man with a talent for a bow and arrow. No one even suspected that the man was just a woman in a disguise. Thankfully Airiette had gotten her family's signature lithe frame and a flat chest. Her angular features helped and she covered her lips often with a black mask that disguised half of her face. Her long wavy snow colored locks were tied in braids and covered with chin length gray hair.

So... what did Airiette do? She stuck to her guns. At first she thought of running away, Aiden would die and no one would expect anything less than him being killed in battle or hell maybe they would even assume he was running away after killing the Count. There was also the appeal of getting away from Caine... the guy was horrible to be around. He drove her up the fucking wall. But then the Countess announced the need to find the killer and a new idea hit Airiette. That to thank whoever killed her brother, she would help them escape the public hanging.

The black mask was the last thing to be pulled on. Her pale blue eyes shone out against the rest of her dark ensamble like aquamarine in a pit of coal. Her body was clad in a black button up with a black jacket and pants as well as black shoes. The wig barely brushed against her shoulders and her arrow was placed in its holster on her back. This was dinner but she was always prepared for anything. "Mas- Aiden? Dinner is ready." Airiette left her room and nodded at the servant girl before heading to the ballroom.

"Do you ever quit?" Airiette groaned at her partner as he hit on the women. "No one here wants to listen to your terrible attempts at flirting." She sighed and looked down, slumping against the wall near Warrin and giving her friend a nod.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Brielle

The Countess of Stonevale had never been a emotional woman, no friendship or romance had ever brought her the sort of passion she heard other people felt. Maybe that was just how she was, at least that was what she always felt. That is, until her dear loving husband passed away. Then she felt the purest joy she had ever felt in her life. Even now as she stared at her disfigured body in the mirror, the usual disgust she felt was slightly numbed by the knowledge that the man was finally gone.

The scar came early in the marriage. Only a few months in... Brielle was admittedly never interested in the Count as anything more than a business plan, shameless self preservation. Clearly, the lustful Count, had other ideas about what it would be. Brielle was a beautiful woman and he was a man with an interest in beautiful women. One night he came after her, it started playful and quickly got brutal. Forced intimacy wasn't in Brielle's plans so she fought and fought and won. But the repercussions were just as terrible, the Count came after her with a sword he ripped from the wall and cut her from collar bone to the opposite hip. A deep wound that should have left her for dead if it wasn't for the kind doctor who saved her. Brielle always had an inkling that it had been Aldus but couldn't remember much due to the blood loss beyond the vague outline of a ravens mask.

The memory always hit her a bit when she got dressed, it was why she didn't look in mirrors often. But today needed to go smoothly, this was the start of another drama that would mildly humor Brielle but ultimately make her appear strong. So she tied her chestnut hair up and placed the golden and gemstone clip in her twist to keep it up. A black dress quickly was slid up onto her thin frame that touched the floor and had a long sleek train rippling on the floor behind her. The neck of the dress was just high enough to cover her scars and the sleeves ended at her wrists. "I'm ready." Brielle hummed and waved the servants in, giving them a small smile as one girl picked up the train and the other held the door for the woman.

After making her way down a few slights of stairs she entered the room where he guests were waiting. "Ah-you're already here. Splendid. Well it's no mystery why I requested you all to join me on this adventure and I appreciate you helping me. My husband was murdered. Brielle held no punches, her cold hazel eyes looked over the group as she spoke, "I believe you are my best why of finding out who. I cannot have a murderer living free in this kingdom." She cleared her throat and continued, "You will all have your own rooms and access to the entire castle. You are not prisoners here but know if you leave it will only heighten the suspicion of your actions on that evening. Now... let's discuss our scrambled memories over some food shall we?"​

 

[KAYDEN]

Warrin

Warrin couldn't help but scoff when Elora spoke to him. He was typically a gentle being but Elora brought out an ugly jealously in him, he knew the Count was frivolous but his fascination with that girl was something other worldly. He asked Warrin about her and openly flirted in front of the Countess. The Count told Warrin it was all to keep people off their trail but he didn't think that was the truth. "Elora it's the day where we all get accused of murder, I wouldn't call that beautiful would you?" As he spoke the drunkard stumbled in and Warrin let out a small sigh.

"Sir, allow me." Warrin pushed off the wall and moved to the wizard, snaking his arm under the wizards hulking frame and letting out a groan under his wobbly weight. "Let me take that." He swiped the booze from the man just as Delphina arrived and apologized to the room for the Count's death. His heart squeezed a little. Warrin knew the man was... terrible... but he loved him. Now that he was gone life was easier but sadder in a way. He nodded to the woman in response but wasn't able to say much more before the knights came in, Aiden giving him a quick nod. "Good evening to you both." It was hard to exit servant mode sometimes.

The Countess entered and Warrin bowed so quickly he nearly dropped Cataz to the ground.

"W-wow." Warrin knew what was going on here but hearing her say it out loud felt so real. The Countess said everything so quickly and matter of factly and suddenly she was whisking away to the dining room. It was an intimidatingly large room that Warrin was used to serving dinner in... not eating. So following her felt strange... sitting down after placing Cataz in a chair felt even more wild. In front of them was a wide spread of different foods and drinks, ones he would usually be busy offering to guests but instead tonight was being offered to him. Was he really a suspect of murder?

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Elora

What was it about Elora that Warrin hated so much? It truly, deeply saddened her. She tried her best to be a good person and all she was met with was criticism time and time again. The only person nice to her anymore was the Countess, and that just made her feel guilty. Guilty that someone so nice was married to such a perverted cretin. Aiden was nice to her as well, but in order to see Aiden Elora had to be near the Count.

Elora quietly made her way to the the dining hall with everyone and quietly took her seat next to Aiden, her bright blue eyes looking downtrodden at the plate as the servants served their meals. Murdered? Someone here was a murderer? Her eyes kept stealing glances at everyone. The Countess seemed content, and no one seemed too upset save for Warrin. He liked the Count for some odd reason. Elora wasn't the judgmental type by any means, but what did he see in the Count? All she ever heard was bad things, and all he did to her were bad things. So did that mean everyone except Warrin could have done it? Even her...after all, she was relieved when he died.

She took a hard swallow and sipped a little on the water poured in front of her. This was too much for her, she wanted to be back in the kitchen helping with dinner so she could hide from everyone. Once again Elora tucked some hair behind her pointed elf ear. This whole thing was so overwhelming. "Master Cataz, are you feeling okay?" Elora finally noticed that something was off about the man. The Count had gotten like that more than a few times and Elora was usually the one stuck taking care of him. Maybe she could focus on helping Cataz get better.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Delphina

"Caine I must agree with sir Aiden, flirting in the wake of your Master's death is unappealing." Delphina scolded soon after Aiden did. Once the Countess entered Delphina bowed slightly towards her, her brows arching slightly at her words. Did that mean Delphina was a suspect? She had killed countless monsters, banished evil from several people, but murder? She wasn't capable of something like that. Taking another life was abominable and would diminish all she had been working towards. She was a holy woman, after all.

Once in the dining hall Delphina sat in the chair next to Brielle. She was someone she would consider an ally, a woman of the truth. She was trustworthy and strong, someone Delphina truly appreciated. "Oh, Elora honey, nothing will truly make him feel better. He's a drunk. A few days away from booze may shed some clarity on his fogged mind, but that's about it my dear." She shone a gentle smile across the table at the small elf. "Anyway, how about we try our hardest to remember that day? To help the Countess."

Delphina paused for a moment and tried her best to recall what happened. "There was a party but I opted out of going, I had some work to do. The next thing I remember is finding myself at the palace gates, and then after that it's a blur. So I must have had a reason to come to the party, I just can't recall what that was..." It felt like her memory of that evening was wiped clear. That was such a disturbing thought...

 

[Sir Damien]

Aldus

As soon as the Countess walked in Aldus felt his stomach flip. There was so much blood that night, all he could remember was how touch and go she was. The salve he put on her wounds to patch up the giant cut, he knew it burned. It burned the large gaping wound shut rapidly, but she had lost so much blood. He had rushed there as fast as he could but even by the time he got there he was shocked to see her alive. By the time she was stable it had been a grueling process and took until the sun came up. After that Aldus stopped coming out of his shop. He was furious that the count was able to go on about his life like nothing happened, while he scarred, nearly killing, such a beautiful woman just because she rejected him.

He quietly made his way to the dining hall and sat down, running his hand through his hair in frustration. His eyes rolled at Delphina's words regarding the drunk. "A little self restraint wouldn't hurt, either." He hushed afterwards, listening to her story. "I remember being told that I needed to get to the palace as soon as possible. I assume I came as soon as possible. It's not often I get house calls, but when I do they tend to be an emergency. The rest is a blur."

 

[Colt Voltage]

Caine

Caine scowled slightly when Aiden came in and scolded him. He was always ruining his fun. And for some reason, Caine got all flustered when Aiden was around. They had not been properly introduced when they met and Caine had flirted with him, having mistaken him for a girl. Could anyone blame him? Soft, gentle features, long eyelashes, a small frame. He assumed he was a flat chested woman. But to his dismay Aiden turned out to be a male, and after that things got awkward. It was clear Aiden hated him, and could anyone blame him? Caine came onto him.

"Boy, listen." He pat him on the head and smirked. "When you grow up you might be able to flirt with beautiful women instead of being mistaken for one." He winked at her and bowed at the Countess as she arrived. Instantly the guilt filled his chest again. He was the reason her husband was dead, he was sure of it. It was only a matter of time before they figured him out. It was only a matter of time before he was publicly executed...

He shook off the feeling and followed everyone to the dining hall, taking a seat on the other side of the Countess, across from Delphina. "Thank you," he shone a gentle charming smile at the woman who served their meal and drinks, Caine taking a small sip of water. He listened to everyone and from the sounds of it, no one else remembered that night. It wasn't just him? Relief washed over him. "I uh, I can't account for my actions that evening. It's all a blur..." Caine hung his head in shame. "I'm sorry for not being any help to you guys."

 

[EclipseRosee]

Cataz

“Oi let me go boy.” Cataz grumbled as Warrin came to hold him up. “I’m mighty able to keep on my own two feet, although where they go is not always where I intend!” Others joined quickly and he found himself rolling his eyes at every single one of them. They were all so thinly veiled in fake sadness for the death of the Count that even this stupid drunkard could tell.

When they were led to the dining room and Cataz was sat down by Warrin, his eyes instantly fell on the empty throne at the head of the table. “What my dear Countess, too scared his ghost will come after you if you sit in his beloved chair?” He took a sip of the wine before him and chuckled as the others discussed their memories. His mind was still fixated on that fucking throne. “Even when he’s dead he still holds this power over people. Well.” With a large sweeping motion that pulled quite a few items from the table to the floor and spilled nearly all of his wine on those around him, Cataz continued his speech.

“I for one say we propose a toast before we all discuss the wild ramblings of our terrible memories. Let me start by saying that something strange is afoot in these walls! Not even the cards can tell me about that night. It’s like a magical black hole! But I for one say.... fuck it! That disgusting man is dead and I for one am thrilled and not afraid to be ! Did I kill him? Well I dunno but I wouldn’t be mad to hold the honor. So! To your late Count people of Stonevale. May he rest in hellfire.” Cataz then took his wine glass and sent it hurling at the throne, proceeding to knock it over with a bit of wind magic.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Airiette

Caine was ... absolutely and undeniably infuriating. “I am a full grown adult for the last time!” Airiette huffed and let out a low groan. This stupid man was going to be the death of her. She was always able to keep a calm mind but he was just so stupid that it literally gave her a headache. Her childish whining was cut short however when the Countess entered and she quickly stood up straight and gave a bow. Honestly despite her terrible taste in men, the Countess was a woman to look up to, and Airiette did. A lot of the other guards mistook her admiration as a crush but it wasn’t that. She just wanted to be more like her, honest and brave. Looking at her was just a reminder that not only had she failed her mission, she still was stuck in a messy lie.

The others moved to the dinner table and Airiette slowly followed, ending up sitting beside Elora. Elora was a friend in the castle, someone she wished she wasn’t lying too. But Airiette also knew she couldn’t burden Elora with the lies... it wasn’t fair. The small girl was visibly uncomfortable beside her so Airiette reached out and set a reassuring hand on her head, smiling under the mask. “It’s okay, the Countess just wants your help and knows she can trust you to be honest. We all do.” After a moment she moved back to her water and removed the mask to take a small sip.

The others recounted the memories, it seemed everyone had a bit of fuzz in their minds. “All I can remember is....” As she spoke something dawned on her, was this a memory breaking through the fog... not much of one at least, “I can remember standing guard at the ballroom door and someone coming up behind me and asking me to follow them but I’m unsure who.” Quickly after the shared thought Cataz began on his tangent and Airiette watched wide eyed.

As the Court wizard threw his glass, Airiette was out of her seat with her bow drawn on the man, “Cataz stop moving now, take a seat and calm down before I pin you to the wall like a lantern you idiot.”

 

[ZombieBaee]

Brielle

They weren’t even five minutes into a meal before people started offering up memories and ideas. Good, this would go well. “It seems as if we all had something strange occur that evening. I myself don’t remember much either beyond dancing with my wonderful knights and wondering where my husband , or who, my husband had run off with...” as she spoke Brielles eyes flashed over to both Warrin and Elora, wanting to see their reactions. Brielle wasn’t stupid, she knew her husband was a whore for lack of better terms, but his relationships could have been a large part of what occurred that night.

Soon enough though her attention was stolen by her troublesome wizard friend and she let out a long sigh. “Cataz I don’t sit there because it’s ugly and gaudy and I want no part of it. While you are my guests we are equals.” But the words fell on deaf ears as the wizard continued. Glass shattered and Brielle felt a large amount of red wine hit her chest. Aiden stood and pointed his arrow at Cataz and a realization hit her.

“No Cataz don’t sit. I’m sorry to ask you all to work when we were supposed to have a nice meal but it seems my appetite has left. Aiden and Caine, please take Cataz to a holding cell. Make sure he has anything he needs, except alcohol! We won’t get anywhere with his tantrums.” Brielle stood and pushed back from the table, wiping the red wine from where it sat on her collarbone and exposing her scar momentarily before quickly fixing her dress with horror in her eyes. “I need to change out of this. I apologize. Please finish your meal and feel free to explore whatever you think may jog your memories. I’ll rejoin as soon as I get out of this soaked dress...”

 

[KAYDEN]

Warrin

Nausea overtook Warrins body as the Countess spoke and made eye contact with him. Did she know? She wasn’t a stupid woman but she had never said anything and had never gotten mad. Many wives would have thrown the person sleeping with their husband out of their home, especially if it was the help. It made him feel even worse than he did when the Count was still alive. The Count had always told Warrin that his wife didn’t love him and that he didn’t love her but he always thought it was a lie to make Warrin fell better. But was it the truth the whole time?

“I-I” Warrin was ready to say something finally just as the wizard started his speech. It hurt to listen to but was the man wrong? Warrin knee what the Count had done with Cataz... he couldn’t blame him for feeling joy in this time. But did he have to be so harsh... Warrin felt tears sting in his eyes as guilt and sadness and anger took him over.

The Countess banished Cataz to the dungeons and stood to excuse herself but Warrin stood slowly, his shoulders shaking. “M-Ma’am. As with the others my memory isn’t clear of that evening but I do have this...” Warrin reached into the leather pouch worn around his neck and produced a worn piece of parchment. “It’s his hand writing... he asked me to meet him in...” he swallowed hard, “In his study.” It was the room the body was found. Warrin knew how bad this would make him look but... even if it was him. He needed to know... and being honest was the only way to find out.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Elora

Was this really happening? Everyone lost their memory of the night it seemed. It made her heart beat rapidly and made her palms start to sweat. Then Aiden rested his hand on her head and she felt her cheeks flush slightly. He was comforting her. Maybe it was the fact that he was the only person in the castle that gave her the time of day besides the count, but she felt her heart flutter every time he was around. He was so genuine and honest, it was refreshing. "T-Thank you." She gave him a small smile and then flinched at the glass shattering. She wasn't aware of what happened to the magicians wife, all she knew was that she passed rather suddenly. Did the count have anything to do with it? With the way he was acting it would make sense. Still, to make such a scene was embarrassing.

"Oh, Countess." Elora stood and frowned at the wine on her dress. "I'll accompany you and help get that stain out." Finally, a chance to escape. Still, her heart ached for Cataz. He'd be in the dungeon, she made a mental note to bring him something later. The Count always felt awful the day after drinking too much, and she was sure that Cataz would be feeling awful in just a few short hours.

Just when she was going to escort the Countess out Warrin was standing and making an announcement, something that shook her to her very core and made her remember something. Elora felt embarrassed as she ran her hand through her raven locks again. "He asked me to meet him in private early on in the evening but I told him I was too busy with the party. He got real angry with me, I remember that..." Gently she touched her cheek. Was she smacked by the Count? It wasn't the first time he struck her for turning him down. The countess wouldn't want to hear about him being violent though....

"Come on, let's go get you changed. I've got to get that stain out before it sets." She walked to the door and held it open for her, her bright blue eyes avoiding meeting hers at all cost.

 

[Pax Pardus Hale]

Delphina

"Cataz!" Delphina stood in an uproar at his behavior. It was atrocious! "The Count did terrible things to you and I am truly and deeply apologetic for what happened to you but you can't be acting this way. We're not here to praise him or anything, we're here to find the killer. A person who kills is the utmost evil and we have to root them out to keep the kingdom safe." Her brows perked curiously when Warrin spoke. A letter, huh...and then there was what Elora said. Her heart sank for that poor girl, and suddenly her appetite was gone. "I think this is where I adjourn to my room. I have to say some prayers, I'm feeling rather faint." Delphina stumbled back slightly as she moved from the table, pushing her chair in as she did. "I'll come back down when everyone gathers together again."

With that said Delphina quickly excused herself from the table in order politely ask one of the servants to show Delphina to her room.

 

[Sir Damien]

Aldus

This would be impossible with Cataz acting like a drunk fool. He had every right to hate the count, he was sure everyone here had the right. But the way he was going about? Ridiculous. "Well, this is my time to be helpful I suppose." Aldus stood from his chair and pulled out a small pouch, taking a small handful of the powder that resided inside. He walked to Cataz and without a word blew the powder in the tall mans face. "It's sleep powder. Fast acting and effective, but it won't last long." He glanced over at Caine and nodded at him. "You seem like a hulking mass of brute strength, make sure he gets locked away quickly. And probably for a good while."

Aldus stretched out and glanced back at Brielle. Elora seemed to be tending to her Countess, something he was sure she was used to doing. They didn't need any help over there. Delphina was excusing herself from the room, and Warrin was pulling out some good evidence. "So was the relationship consensual or forced? I assume there was a relationship between the two of you, but the type of relationship would help us know if you're the killer or not." Aldus was very matter of fact, he didn't have time to beat around the bush. Well, he did, but he didn't want to waste his time as something trivial like an investigation on whoever murdered his least favorite person.

 

[ZombieBaee]

Airiette

The Countess ordered that she and Caine take Cataz down to the dungeons, and while Airiette had every intention of doing her duty, apparently the universe did not. As Aldus blew some powder into the hulking mans face, the wizard plummeted down to the table and sent wine, mash potatoes and who knows what else all over her body, head to toe.

“Are you...”Airiette let out a loud groan and ripped her mask from the table before turning to Caine. “Just give me five minutes and I’ll be back to help okay?” Without waiting for an answer she took off stomping to her quarters.

It was going to take a lot longer than five minutes. This shit was IN the wig. “Fuck!” She growled, slamming the door shut with a boom and not worrying to lock it as she quickly entered her bathroom. Just a quick rinse and new clothes will do well. She tossed the wig into the sink with some water to let it soak as she jumped in the cold shower with a yelp.

It wasn’t even a full minute before Airiette got out of the shower and wrapped a towel around her thin frame to begin the search for clean clothes. The wig needed a few more moments to soak so for now she simply let her wild white locks stick to her face and neck and she dug through the piles of black closthing.

 

[Colt Voltage]

Caine

When Cataz threw the glass he stood abruptly just like Aiden did and drew his sword pointing at his throat. "I recommend you listen to everyone here. I'll strike you down where you stand without batting an eye if you try something to hurt the Countess." His red eyes narrowed at the magician and he listened to what Brielle had to say. "Right away ma'am." Caine put his sword away back in the sheath and went to grab Cataz by the arm. Then Aldus came and blew the powder at the magician and his brows arched up curiously. "Oh, uh, thanks doc." That made his job easier. The giant of a man tumbled on the table and sent plates and food flying, silently making Caine wince. Thank the heavens he didn't have to clean the mess...

When the food landed on Aiden he couldn't help but laugh. As soon as it came out though he felt bad. No one deserved to be covered in food despite how much of an ass that boy could be. And seeing him covered liked that made him think of a sad, cute animal. He'd have to apologize. "I'll take care of this guy." He picked up the magician and tossed him over his shoulder like he weighed nothing. "Let's go, buddy." With that said he quickly made his way down to the dungeon to one of the vacant cells. He sat the man down on the stone floor and attached a shackle to his ankle.

Caine shut and locked the cell door behind him before he let out a sigh. "I have to go apologize..." He quickly made his way up the stairs and to Aiden's room. He didn't knock or anything, having lost some of those manners being on a crusade for two years and living in tents and what not, and walked inside unannounced. "Aiden hey, I've got to apologize-" His red eyes looked over at the long white haired beautiful maiden across the room. "Oh, my apologies miss! I didn't mean to intrude. I-" Caine went to cover his eyes but paused when he looked from the body to the face. "Oh. Oh. Oh!" He covered his eyes as he pieced together what was happening. "Aiden you're a girl! I was right! Score!" He couldn't help but smile to himself. All those weird thoughts about him were suddenly okay, because he was a she!

"I, uh, sorry for intruding, miss." He turned around and stared at the door awkwardly. What was he supposed to do in this situation? Leaving was too obvious for the womanizer. "I just wanted to tell you that Cataz is safely shackled in the dungeon. Glad I did it, I wouldn't want to hurt a pretty white hair on your pretty lady head."

 

[KAYDEN]

Warrin

Elora made mention of the Count asking her to meet him privately as well and Warrin couldn't help but feel the heat rise to his face and ears. It was anger and embarrassment all in one. He knew it. The Count had been after the girl in that way.... and had used Warrin to get information about her. But Elora seemed terrified... Whatever! Warrin quickly shook his head to clear the confusing thoughts away just as Aldus approached him.

Was it consensual or forced. Hah.

"Consensual. For a long time." Warrin looked up at the doctor with sad eyes, he wasn't ashamed. "I-I've been around the Count for a long time. I know he did bad things, no terrible things but, we had always just had this thing. It was toxic and I felt guilty but I was never forced or unwilling." His green eyes looked away once again to the door that the Countess exited through. "She didn't love him, I don't blame her. He was terrible to her. He was honestly terrible to most... but he was one person who made me feel wanted after my parents died and I was always indebted to him." He stopped and cleared his throat, he was rambling.

"Does that answer your question doctor?"

 

[ZombieBaee]

Brielle

The Countess listened to the two servants intently. "I know it doesn't mean much but I apologize for my late husbands advances on you both, consensual or non. The man had an unkind hand even to those he loved." This was already going from smooth to a literal quarry. Warrin was falling to pieces, Elora was scared, Cataz had a break down and poor Delphina nearly fainted. "Everyone please just remember... he cannot hurt you any longer. Do not live in fear of what he was." With that she allowed Elora to assist her out of the room and back up the stairs to her wardrobe.

"Elora... please continue to be honest through this experience. I will let you in on a secret okay?" Brielle smiled down at the girl gently before leaning down to whisper in her ear, "I do not morn the Count. I do not seek vengeance against his murderer. I only wish to keep the people of this kingdom safe and if someone can kill once, they can kill again. So do not spare my feelings, as I have none towards than man but bitter ones." She stood once more to her full height and opened the door to her dressing room.

"How about to take some water and food to our dear wizard, I doubt those boys in the guard thought that far. I can dress myself. Then we can all plan to meet in the dungeons to discuss a plan for tomorrow..." With that she nodded to the girl and paused before entering the room, "Oh and please, during this time feel free to call be Brielle unless the other diplomats are visiting. I am not one for titles, I don't need them to know who I am." Brielle closed the door behind her to slip out of the stained dress and into a black pair of silk pants and a flowing white blouse with a high neck. This would due for the evening.