Clestine Glanced Up As A Stranger Settled Next To Her At The Bar, His Presence Commanding Attention Even

Célestine glanced up as a stranger settled next to her at the bar, his presence commanding attention even in the lively chaos of The Soldier's Taverna.  The French woman met his gaze, noting the hint of weariness beneath his casual demeanor. She offered a polite smile, sensing an opportunity to indulge her curiosity. "The caipirinha is quite popular," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of warmth. "It's a traditional Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, sugar, and lime. Refreshing and a bit strong, but worth a try."She gestured towards the bartender, who promptly began preparing the drink. "What brings you to this lively establishment tonight?"

𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍: THE SOLDIERS TAVERNA 𝐅𝐑𝐎𝐌: DANTE FABBRI 𝐓𝐎: OPEN STARTER ( 0 / 3 )

it would be a lie to say dante's in a good mood. but he also hasn't been in a good mood in a while either. so, comparatively, he is fine. looking forward to trying brazilian delicacies, and at the top of his list, comes booze. the soldier's taverna is more lively than he had thought it would be, loud groups throughout the entire room, some playing games, some playing music. the rush of noise feels good to dim the thoughts away, and he slips next to someone in a bar, tapping the counter to get he bartender's attention. turning on his seat, dante raises an eyebrow at his new companion. "so, what's good around here? did you try any local beverages you'd recommend?"

Lady Célestine had been admiring the intricate frescoes and the magnificent play of light through the stained glass when the unexpected melody of a pianoforte filled the small church. The music was beautiful, captivating, and drew her in. She approached quietly, her steps light on the stone floor, not wanting to disturb the musician.

As the church doors slammed shut, startling both herself and the musician, she recognized the princess. Aurora's alarmed squeak and the subsequent discordant note from the pianoforte brought a smile to Célestine's lips.

"Princess Aurora, please, do not apologize," Célestine said warmly, stepping closer with a reassuring smile. "Your music is a gift to this beautiful place. I was merely exploring the grounds and found myself drawn to the sound of your playing. I don't believe their is any problem in playing such a beautiful instrument"

° • — OPEN starter ° • — exploring the churches, midday

aurora's very own nasty habit, was disappearing to explore her surroundings. she was always curious about new places, especially after being kept inside versailles since she was merely sixteen — the princess felt as though there was much she hadn't seen or even began to understand. getting to explore a new country was far more adventure then she ever got in france in the past decade.

the beauty's eyes were locked on one of the art pieces, in the smallest of the three churches around the grounds. someone had directed her here, saying this church was the most stunning of the three. aurora had to admit, they were right. the colors of the art were wondrous, and even more captivating was the light streaming in through the stained glass that seemed to cover the walls.

while she had been lost in her thoughts, aurora took noticed of the pianoforte in the corner of the church. surely, no one would mind if she played for a moment, would they? the princess sat down on it's velvet cushioned bench, letting her lithe fingers rest on the keys. there was silence, for a moment, before she started to play.

aurora played and played, becoming entirely entranced in the music. she was so entranced, that when she heard the church doors slam shut — the princess about nearly jumped from her skin, letting out an alarmed squeak and a loud clunk came from the pianoforte from where her fingers slipped on the keys. " i am so terribly sorry, was i not allowed to play? " she asked sheepishly. " i did not know who to ask. "

Célestine observed The Queen of Egypt with a composed smile, her recent induction into the French envoy lending her an air of diplomatic grace. "I am delighted to hear that you are entertained, your highness," she responded, her voice carrying the refined cadence of her homeland. Adjusting the delicate lace of her gown, she continued, "The performances indeed showcase extraordinary talent, a true testament to the harmony between the kingdoms."

As the harmonious voices of the performers continued to fill the air, Célestine's eyes softened with understanding. "A reprieve from the festivities, you say?" She glanced around the vibrant setting before returning her gaze to Sahirah. "I must admit, the idea is quite appealing. Shall we seek a more tranquil corner to converse and catch our breath?"

location : the gardens, away from the main crowd. when : the spring's end evening concert.

" hm. it's not that i'm not entertained — quite the opposite. " a reassurance with a smile, adjusting the shoulders of her attire. it was a mesmerizing display, talent bleeding through the performances of both presenting kingdoms. harmonious voices are still heard where sahirah and company reside. " well, you have discovered me. have you need of a reprieve away from the festivities, too? "

The Redhead regarded The Scott with a raised eyebrow and an amused smile, her sharp wit immediately coming to the forefront. "Ah, monsieur, ever the master of hyperbole," she remarked, her tone light but edged with playful sarcasm. "I assure you, I can handle more than a mere illusion of oceans in deserts. But I do appreciate your concern for my well-being."

She tilted her head slightly, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "It’s quite noble of you to come to the aid of a poor, beleaguered Frenchwoman in distress. Though I must admit, I was hoping for a challenge rather than a lecture on the dangers of stronger spirits." Célestine let out a soft chuckle, her demeanor both charming and self-assured. "However, I do appreciate your honesty. Perhaps, instead of stronger drink, you could recommend a different sort of diversion? Surely a man of your standing has some intriguing suggestions for entertainment in a place like this."

cathair's lips curl devilishly; to watch the french suffer from afar was, perhaps, the reason that he was placed on this earth. her incessant pleas makes the clan head chuckle to himself, a shake of his head taking him to her side; as much as he disliked the french, he was not one to leave the vulnerable to their own devices, especially not here, not amongst the monarchs. "they would not lie to you, ma'am. anything stronger than what you've consumed and you'd be seeing oceans where there are deserts." he teases.

Lorena's fingers moved gracefully over the harpsichord keys, the melody filling her chambers with a soothing presence. She was deeply immersed in her music, finding solace and escape in each note, when a quiet "wow" broke her concentration. Startled, she turned to see her younger brother, Prince Felix, sitting sheepishly on one of the sofas. "Felix," she said softly, her eyes lighting up with affection. "You are never an interruption, hermano. Your presence is always welcome."

She stood up from the harpsichord and crossed the room to sit beside him, her heart warmed by his effort to be quiet and respectful. "It's rare to see you so calm and quiet," she teased gently, ruffling his hair in a sisterly manner. "But it is a pleasant surprise." Lorena took a moment to study her brother's face, noting the uncharacteristic shyness. "You seemed mesmerized by the music. Did you enjoy it? I can play more if you'd like, or we can simply talk. It's been too long since we've had a quiet moment together."

She smiled warmly, resting her hand on his shoulder. "What brings you to my chambers today? Is there something on your mind, or did you just miss your big sister?"

the young prince is usually known for being loud. making his presence known in every space, voice booming, steps echoing against the walls. that is most of the truth, as it is his usual stance and demeanor. however, contrary to popular belief, felix is also capable of staying calm and making himself small in spaces where he knows he needs to be. at first, this is not his intention, though as he nears his sister's chambers, and hears the gentle music, he makes a very careful attempt not to disturb the scene. instead, quietly sitting down on one of the sofas, he pulls his feet underneath himself, rests his elbow on the arm of the sofa, and chin on top of the crook of his elbow. it's mesmerizing, to hear her play, and he is much too content with not disturbing her — it's only the "wow—" exclamation that falls from his lips that makes his presence known. suddenly sheepish, he shakes his head. "no, hermana, sorry for interrupting — just wanted to stop by."

Lady Célestine couldn't help but let out a melodic laugh as Maceon approached, his charm and confidence a stark contrast to the more reserved demeanor of the kitchen maid. "Ah, Maceon, always the knight in shining armor," she teased, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I suppose I could use a lesson in the proper way to request a drink."

She watched as the kitchen aide, Abebe, moved to fulfill Maceon's request, her own glass now brimming with a far superior drink. "Merci, Abebe," she said with a gracious nod before turning her attention back to Maceon, her expression warm and inviting. As Abebe moved to fulfill the request, Célestine turned her attention back to Maceon, her smile warm and welcoming. "Mon cher, I could never turn down such delightful company," she said, her tone playful. "I wasn't planning on drinking alone, but it seems fate has provided me with a much better alternative."

The Redhead raised her newly filled glass, her eyes meeting Maceon's with a hint of challenge. "The occasion is simply the pursuit of good conversation and better company. So, tell me, Maceon, what brings you to the kitchens this fine evening? And are you prepared to keep up with me?"

Swallowing down a laugh with a splash of drink, Maceon shook his head quietly as a grin licked upon his wolfish lips, eyes peering discreetly at the interaction between the French woman && the kitchen aide. " Lady Célestine, you go about your request all wrong! " Maceon finally spoke, chuckling as he approached the scene, and raised an eyebrow at the maid. " She is a friend of mine. Fill her glass, please, and show her how Ethiopia treats their honored guests. The good stuff, Abebe, please && my sincerest gratitude. "

Eyes returned to hers, glimmering like oceanwater gemstones. " This is how you get things done, mon cher. " He cast a sweeping glance about the kitchens, and tilted his head with another chuckle. " Tell me not you have come to drink alone? What is the occasion, and I insist, you allow me to join in the fun. "