-⚜️-

Olivier's nostrils flared, his bottom lip still tucked under his teeth when Toni responded. "I know," He murmured, having released the tight hold of his own flesh. "I can hear it." Dark brown eyes hungrily traced Toni's neck and collarbone as the sound of her increasing heartbeat serenaded his ears. "And I can smell you. All of you." Olivier specified, meaning her growing arousal, as the palm of his hands grew greedy with the need to return to Toni's curves. The witch's moans, her soft sighs that Antonia made right at the end of them, seconds before she inhaled and sought to wrangle her own self in. Aided in the soundtrack of sensory overload that Olivier experienced during the full moon while every part of him wanted Antonia. In every way.

A look of disbelief crossed Olivier's features when Toni said she wasn't that artistic. "Yes, you are." He responded, clearly disagreeing with her. "I'm not a painting protege. But I'm not bad with a paintbrush." Ollie paused before continuing, unable to deny himself. "And we already know how talented I am with my hands. Which will definitely come in handy tonight." The hybrid smirked and his hands damn neared cheered when she wrapped his arms around her. Ollie pressed against, holding her from behind as they waited. "Private room. They have infused drinks and they might help but... I don't know how long I can resist you." He answered, nose nuzzling her. The hybrid ate earlier that day. Several times. However, the pull of the full moon, render his previous feedings ineffective. Sometimes, it made Olivier feel as though he hadn't ate at all. "I'd rather we ask for forgiveness than permission." While, oddly enough, Olivier wanted to not cause unnecessary bullshit or trouble in public during their visit for the heir naming ceremony. He was here representing his little sister, somehow, in a weird-quasi way. He didn't want to make Robin look bad.

Antonia had grown to enjoy the full moons. Not only did they make her feel more powerful, they used to be when her father pushed her most. Now? Now she was safe. More than that, she was loved, and it also meant an intensely good time for her and Olivier. She could always tell when he needed to feed. His kisses grew more intense, hungry. There was a need to them, distinct from other kisses they shared. They made the steady beating of her heart race in anticipation for when he could sink his teeth into her. 

“Me? You’re the one that has my heart racing and other parts of me throbbing.” She reveled in the soft press of his lips to hers. The kiss was like stoking flames not yet ready for a raging fire but the need to keep the embers hot. She moaned into the kiss, letting out a surprised squeal when he smacked her ass. Yeah, he was definitely keeping something hot alright. She battled with whether she should lean in for another kiss, but she refrained. If he was showing restraint she would too. “I’m not that artistic, so if it wasn’t our private sessions, then I can’t say I have. Toni wrapped his arms around her as they entered. “Are we joining group instruction or do you want a private room?” 

-⚜️-

"Wait, so you plan to have multiple art showings. But those showings are to prepare for the actual grand opening of your school?" Olivier blinked, dark brows knit as he listened to Viggo's words. "And when is the official grand opening?" He asked, wanting to confirm the date. "So wait, you're trying to do a gradual rollout of art showings that will lead to an actual art institute in the Divine Forest? Just want to make sure that I understand." The hybrid confessed. "Do you plan to work at this art school of yours? Or will you just commission it, grant it some patronage at will, and have other accredited professionals to work there and lead it?"

"Well, I don't have any new works. But I have some pieces that might be free. It just depends on when your dates are for your future showings." Ollie nodded. "Well, I'm not a teacher. Nor am I accredited. But I can lend some of my pieces. Along with attending a few showings, to show my support. How's that?"

Viggo nodded, "Yes, it's an art show to promote the opening of the school, we'll have one before the actual opening and one as the grand opening." Viggo listened to his questions nodding along and smiled, "Yes, eventually working into a legitimate art school, I feel I can't really start there right away because of my own lack of accreditation but I want it to grow." He shook his head but smiled, "no, the shows are mostly just to get the word out and show unity among the realms. I know we're not all like best friends but if there is one thing most can agree on is art." Viggo shook his head and smiled, he knew Olivier wasn't a leader but he had heard and seen some of his work before. "No, no, I know that, I just knew of you and wanted to pick you myself, I had seen some of your work and just wanted to ask if you were interested." His brows rose and he shrugged, "Honestly, whatever you're most comfortable with or what you want to. I'm not picky. I just want to showcase the possibilities of allowing this project of mine to grow and flourish and become something amazing for art and Lume."

-⚜️-

Olivier's face broke into an expression of amusement as he joined Robin in laughter. "And she still got it wrong." He said, in between laughs. "But yes, stunting on the hoes makes more sense. Still want to know which hoes she plans to stunt on. But she didn't tell me about her foes so I doubt she'd share who she wants to stunt on." Olivier figured it was due to their Grandmere knowing that he'd take it upon himself to rectify any perceived wrongs that he felt was done to her. So, for the sake of sanity and peace, she didn't tell Ollie of her alleged enemies. The hybrid's shoulders shook with unheard laughter when she mimicked the sound of Grandmere's hand fan. "...She does. Well, lightly aggressive. Just enough for it to make a noise."

At Robin's supposed confusion, Olivier rolled his eyes. "That is barely thicker than dental floss, Robin." He said, clearly exaggerating but of course doing so to drive his point home. "You wore that for them? Well, can you put on a damn jacket? Or a coat?" Olivier shrugged when she groaned. "Should've answered the family group texts. Then I wouldn't have to ask you in person instead." He paused. "...What do you mean so it was appropriate? What did the original look like? What did she have cropped out?" Olivier asked, although a part of him, the older brother part, hoped he didn't ask her that in vain.

Robin burst into laughter. “No, she was supposed to be stunting on the hoes. I specifically said that. We actually practiced saying it and she still said it wrong.” It was cute though, she could stomp on her goes if she wanted to. “She has a hand fan? Does she aggressively open it so it makes a loud sound?” She frowned in confusion, looking down at her dress. “This is a dress. I can assure you that I didn’t wear this dress to distract you. I wore it for Hale.” She groaned. “That feels like it’s going to be the question of the hour. I’m told that they needed a third photo, and Hale chose that one.  Iris cropped it so it was appropriate and boom. Not a big deal. See.” 

Damien + Olivier @theartofruling

Location: Limelight Lounge & Karaoke Bar, Northland Heights

-⚜️-

"Damien," Olivier greeted the dark witch with a smile and wrapped him up in a hug. "Fuck, I've missed you. How are you? How have you been?" Too much time had passed since he saw Damien. Let alone spent quality time with him. Ollie eased from their hold and looked at Damien, still smiling whilt taking him in and not-so-subtly making sure he was visibly okay. "Damn, you smell good. New cologne?" He asked, curious. If there was a short list of persons who knew Olivier inside and out, in his opinion, Damien Petrov was on it. "And you're sure that you don't have any court proceedings or official Westland business to conduct after this?"

"I don't plan on getting you drunk. But we should definitely have a few drinks. They're great. Even their in-house craft beers." Arm strewn across the taller man's back, he steered the pair to face the front of the establishment before them. "They're not in full swing yet. But would you join me for a catch up date at this karaoke bar? You don't have to sing. Not if you don't want to. But their human food is pretty good. And their infused and hybrid meals are too. What do you say?"

-🏝️-

River was surprised that the blonde accepted the offer to play a game with her. Considering that Svala just finished one. And especially since beach volleyball was played in two person teams or more. Not that one versus one games weren't common. But not every competitor could successfully finish the nine standard rounds while also playing barefoot on the sands. Something that River was adept in, playing many competitive sports on the beach. The Princess wasn't certain if it was hubris or something else that caused Svala to accept but the Valkyrie decided to play a new game of volleyball with River, all the same.

River was unable to not grin at Svala's words. As she didn't expect the woman to be easy pickings. "The only thing peaceful about me - is my realm." River commented with a light chuckle before she went to retrieve a new volleyball. "You got it," She moved to the position to serve. Only for Svala's words to make her laugh again. "At least you have good instincts?" River offered back, not at all disagreeing with Svala. Before moments later, amusement escaped her face and her form readied to begin the game. After a quick assessment of the beach and inhale, glad that her voluminous curls were bound in a ponytail, River served the ball.

Svala had just finished a game when River walked up and she gave a nod, "of course." She laughed, "I'll take that bet, you might have me though after that game but don't hold back." She smiled, drinking some water and ruffling one of her young daughter's hair before turning back to River, "you serve first?" Her brows raised, "I have a feeling you're going to kick my ass."

-🏝️-

"Thank you." She said, sending Kat a soft, partial smile after they settled into a more private area. "Here as in being in the Forest? Or attending another inter-realm formal-esque celebration again that's keeping you on edge?" River asked, sending Kat a curious look. "For me, it's a... quiet thread of suspense for me now. Like I'm somehow waiting for something, anything, to happen. Unexpectedly." She shared, dark eyes taking in the space around them. While private, the faerie Princess still assess the exits and entrances. Despite having her own appointed guards. "I'm as well as expected. I've returned to my duties." There was a slight pause. "Or rather, Rowan's own duties, since she's on leave." Her cousin was on bedrest and awaiting the birth of her second child. To say that River was busy would be an understatement.

"You've been told. But you're not taking their advice, I gather?" A dark brow quirked in unspoken amusement at Kat's words. And her lack of action. "Who are you trying to not worry?" River asked, curious. "And it sounds like... I'm not sure. But that maybe you feel that you're expected to react or be a certain way with whomever those persons are. That you don't want to worry. Like you're an actor without a script and are now supposed to improv." River's shoulders raised in a shrug. "But I could be wrong. And you just don't like talking about emotions instead."

Kat had been enjoying herself with this event, she hadn't expected for River to pull her away but they had somewhat trauma bonded in their time being kidnapped. "Hey, yeah of course." She said finishing her drink and setting down the empty glass. "Yeah, we can definitely slip away." Her brows pulling together as they did so. "I'm doing about as good as could be expected. I will say I have been on edge a bit being here. Seems like every time we're all together like this some people go missing or something. How are you?" Kat shrugged, "I've been told I probably should talk about it, but I don't like worrying anyone. Seems I worry them more not talking about it."

-🧸-

"Hey," Evren greeted Svala. She'd been gathering her things, about to continue to the next scheduled event for the Forest's Heir Naming Celebrations, when the blonde valkyrie caught up with her. "Did you want to go now? Or later, before the weekend is over? If you're inviting me now - that'd be great. I'm starving." She paused and sent Svala a curious look. "Is that why you asked? Did you feel me getting slightly hangry?"

For: @gvldntrbl (Evren & Svala) Where: Haven Palace

After the heir naming Svala had realized that there were some people she hadn't caught up with, one of those people being Evren. She had reached out before showing up and set up a meeting with her. Her brows rose once she saw Evren and she smiled, "Hi, this isn't anything serious, maybe just a much needed break for you. You want to go grab something to eat? If you have time? We can catch up and you can tell me how all this is or how it isn't."

-🧸-

Evren's long legs stepped heavy, frustration evident in her strut as she led Torben, along with her guards, away from the direction of her office. Less than three seconds into the unexpected, and truly unwanted, interaction with the newly, resurrected Torben and Evren was already exhausted. The man's emotional state went from irate to depressed and self-deprecating and back again. It was draining. Annoyed with his smart ass comment, Evren barely refrained rolled her eyes. At Torben's increasing feelings of disrespect and contempt at the ten minute time limit along with the visible presence of Haven's royal guards, Evren laughed. The reaction, humorless and empty. And at the congratulations, Evren made a unpleasant face. "How in the fuck do you think I even got this job, Torben? My predecessor was murdered." She pointed at the visible guards. "So yeah. Of course, you're not getting close to me. They don't know you." She paused. "Hell, after this long, neither do I. I didn't expect to see you at all. I'd ask if you were a ghost, but I can feel your emotions." Evren shared with a shrug of her shoulders. "Did it take you all year to come up with that?" She asked, a part of her not wanting to know. "And sadly, now's not a good time for me. I run a realm. You can't just show up from the dead and think that..." She paused and inhaled deeply to collect herself as his emotions were not helping hers at all. She didn't want to punch him. But Evren wasn't prepared to see him either. And his flippant disregard for anyone outside of himself wasn't fucking helping. "...that the world stops because you wanted to rejoin it."

She pinched the upper bridge of her nose with her thumb and index finger as she sighed deeply again. "And I don't believe you. Because if you really wanted to congratulate me or spend time with me, you would've made a better attempt to reach out to me. Instead of ambushing me, out of fucking nowhere, while I'm literally at work in public." If not cruel, to Evren, it felt completely selfish for her former friend to appear where she least expected him. As she felt his emotions, the nymph wouldn't lie to him. "I have no expectations of you. I don't want anything from you. And so no, I won't hold you to anything. So these new promises, you're making them to yourself. If you want to make attempts, feel free. But faking your death? You lied to me. For thirty years. I don't trust you anymore."

When he threatened to leave if her guards did not, Evren laughed. Genuinely that time. "I don't give a fuck what you do. Leave, stay, do a damned jig of a dance, if you want. But you're right, I've heard what you had to say. And...I've given you my answer. I didn't break this friendship. You did."

Torben visibly shrunk at her words, but he had expected it. He sighed, "Fine, I'll just stand here awkwardly four feet away from you. Cool." He said as they patted him down before she was asking him questions. "I wanted to come by and just be here? I guess? I wanted to see my friend. Congratulate you on all this." He chewed his lip, "to tell you I should have been there but I was a jackass." When she gave him a time limit he raised his hands, "Listen, I'd rather you punch me at this point or have these two beat me to a pulp. I deserve all of this and I know that but I..." He shook his head feeling defeated as he hung his head, "I hurt all of the people I cared most about, including you. I don't expect everyone to wanna rush and hug me because I'm back. Didn't really expect this either," He said pointing to the guards before meeting her gaze again, "I get it if you're over my bullshit and would rather not see me again. Just go on continue thinking I'm dead, because I know this fixes nothing but I am gonna try. I'm gonna be around more for everybody. That's the only thing I can promise right now. This isn't easy for anyone, and I know that. I wouldn't hurt you though. So can call these two jug heads off, or I can just leave. I've said about all I can say I guess to convince my friend to let me at least try to be that friend again."

-🏝️-

"You don't have to apologize." River said, carefully watching her very pregnant and bedridden cousin in bed. "You're a Queen. You're married. And well, even if you weren't, heirs are to be expected. Hell, I'm sure the council will hope you continue until you have a few more faeries." She weakly joked. When Rowan mentioned reducing the timeline of her recovery, River's bounced lightly as she shook her head. "No, no. I won't hear it. I don't care if you take vampire blood every day. You are taking three months off with this second baby, too. They deserve, both them and Scarlett, deserve to have you unbothered for that long. I can give you all, Markus included, that much of a welcome home gift."

A curious look danced on River's features at Rowan's mention of not wanting to be out of the loop. "Ro, you read minds. When are you ever truly out of the loop?" She pondered. "And besides, you will be informed, every day. I wouldn't dare have you return to your duties full time unprepared. Immortalem or no. So no, you will take every single second of those ninety days. You will enjoy this time with your new, growing family. With your husband and your children. And I will visit, I will keep you updated. And you will return, refreshed and more than ready when you do, okay? Do I make myself clear, Rowan? Or do I need to get Uncle Raymond in here?" It was a light and near empty threat as Hartwells were as stubborn as they were strategic. Among other things.

"Now, you want to tell me why you've really called me here? As I've got you covered and Jackson has Northland handled for Markus. Do you want me to sit with you for a while? I'll even talk Viggo into letting me keep Scarlett, right now, so you can see her."

Who: Rowan +River @gvldntrbl

Where: Southland Palace Rowan's bedroom

Rowan sat up in her bed, now on bedrest and due any day now. She dreaded this part, handing over her duties and burdening River with the crown. As she sat there with her cousin, she sighed. "I'm sorry we're here again. I promise this is the last time for a long while. I figured we should talk timeline again. I know I took three months off last time, but I don't know if I will need the whole three months this time. I know that there's a huge threat with the immortalem so I don't want to be completely out of the loop."

-🌺-

Hale's crowning ceremony commenced almost perfectly. There was a slight, surprise action of the heir pausing their own commencement to descend and retrieve Robin from beside Iris, where their family sat, and have her join them onstage. But even then, Daphne felt and understood that Hale's emotions for their long awaited recognition had finally peaked. It was with that in mind that she observed the pair both ascend and complete Hale's ceremony with Robin at their side. Such a sight and discerning into Hale's emotions as well as feeling them with the heir and every other nymph attending, Daphne felt many things. But a strong undercurrent of pride remained. Today had been decades, a century even, in the making, but it was obvious that the right choice was crowned.

The earth nymph's pride, while still present, made way for contentedness as it settled in Daphne's chest as she waited for Iris. While she, Daphne, had a slight break in her duties, her wife had not. But in time, she made her way over to sit on Daphne's lap as she always did. She felt the Goddess' own emotions intensify with every step. "Aw, Baby, c'mere." She said as she gathered Iris in her arms. Daphne kissed Iris near her mouth, moved from one side of Iris's lips to the next, before finally kissing her sounding on the lips. "I don't think that'll every happen." The urge to comb her hand through Iris's hair tickled the pads of Daphne's fingers. Before she could even verbally ask, Daphne knew that Iris had heard it through their bond. "You're doing so great. Everything has been so perfect." She complimented, her tone sincere. "And Baby, even I know that this is where they'll need you the most. For years, you've both worked towards this. And now you have it. You're Goddess of the Divine Forest, you have me - a soon to be official Queen, which we need to talk about, by the way. There's Viggo and Scarlett. A recognized Prince with titles and his own heir. And now, there's Hale. Formally named heir of the Goddess. And did you see them, up there with Robin? Might have their own heirs soon enough from the feels of things."

At the thought of Iris wondering if she was no longer needed, Daphne pouted in dislike of the very idea. "C'mon, talk to me. What does not needing you look like? To you?" She wondered.

Who: Iris + Daphne @gvldntrbl

Where: Divine Forest Day 1 - After the crowning ceremony 

Iris found her way into Daphne’s lap, tears blurring her eyes. She must have cried this entire day. From getting ready to all the events on the agenda. All she knew was her youngest child was growing up and now named heir. Her sweet baby was going to carry the family line after she was no longer on the throne. “I know I looked forward to this day. But our little baby is all grown up. What if they stop needing me?”

Markus + Daphne @ocean-eyeslnrp

Location: Dining Hall, Divinity Inn, Day 3 Morning

~ 🌺 Flashback 🌺~

It was the final morning of the weekend's heir naming celebrations. Any other morning, without the literal coaxing of her wife, Daphne Hale would bask in the warmth of her bed sheets and sleep until said wife grew impatient or the alarm for their day blared. Today was an exception to the sleep-in rule. At least for Daphne. Iris, Hale, and several others were up early for sunrise yoga. "Mother Nature, help them." Daphne muttered at the thought as she sat and took the first, much needed pull of coffee. No, instead of being wrapped up bed, she was in the empty dining hall of Divinity Inn as she waited for Markus Olsen to join her for breakfast. The vampire king, step-father to Viggo's child, husband to Rowan (said mother of child), and now rediscovered mate to her wife, Iris. She took another much needed sip of her drink. Fate definitely had a hand in the strings that wove the lives of Daphne's loved ones together. An amused one at that, it seemed, at times.

Still, she was sure much stranger things have occurred before. As many in Lume were immortal or had longevity of some kind, complicated relationships existed. Daphne wasn't exempt. Besides, she'd met Markus before. They didn't have much in common then. And while she wasn't certain if, mutual mateship aside, that had changed. Daphne knew there was much wisdom in getting to know the soul whose very existence would be frequent in her life. As it was likely, she in his. "Markus, hi." She greeted him as he neared. "Have a seat. Thanks for joining. Do you want to get food first? Or are you okay with me finishing my coffee and then we can go through the buffet together?" She paused. "I checked with the staff and we'll probably be the only ones here for a while. Like two hours, at least. Which is nice. Gives us time to get to know each other a little better."

-🌺-

"Torben, I know that this was thirty years ago, so technically, the only ones who were living in the Divine Forest were you, your family and some of our other allies. As officially, Iris could not have lived here. She was literally an enemy of the realm then. And I didn't live here because I didn't like going where my mate couldn't. Especially our home-realm." The recollection was easy and relatively quick for Daphne to share as well, along with Torben, she lived through that time period. "But maybe you forgot, or didn't know, that I have family in Eastland too. Who are members of its pack. When I say that I could have helped you, I mean it. I've also been medically trained in every realm except for the Dark World. As well, technically, they're a territory." The earth nymph sighed heavily. "The point is, I know that you were hurting. Literally. But there were more chances for you to be helped aside from being 'healed'. Instead of being dead, like we all collectively thought and grieved. You went through a traumatic experience and had no one to turn to. Do you not think that that doesn't also break my heart to know that?" When Torben adamantly protested, asked that she not push the subject, Daphne sighed. The extra helping on her plate having lost its appeal a while ago. "For now."

When Torben spoke of what she and Iris would do to help him, Daphne simply looked at him with a sad expression. She shook her head. "No. No, I don't think you really know what we'd do. Or have done. To help you. But what's done is done." Along with her appetite and caused the earth nymph to gently pushed the remainder of her food away. Dark brown eyes struggled to not roll in their sockets at his attempt to compliment her. Torben's words felt more like a backhand than anything, in that moment. With a wisdom she didn't feel belonged to her, Daphne refrained from stating that she didn't believe that he truly trusted her. Or else, he would've contacted her. But it was a pleasant celebration and aside from Torben and a few other stragglers, everyone else during the celebration felt good. "And I don't believe that that is a good scenario to ask me. Seeing as Iris was literally kidnapped from me once before. But by vampires." She pointed out. "But to answer you, I'd want all of the time that I could have left with her. I wouldn't care if she came to me on her literal last day of life. I'd want that with her." Daphne sighed again.

"Well, in all of that, you know that you didn't actually apologize for faking your own death, right? I heard a lot of 'I fucked up' and that kidnapped scenario that touched too close to home considering my mate. But not an apology, Torben. So is the mac and cheese," She asked, eyes flickering back on the discarded food and then onto him before continuing. "how you planned to spend time with me? 'Cause your face was a welcomed surprise but your pitch could've used more work. Like damn, you couldn't have brought me a beer or something? Offered to dance with me? Had a gift bag?" She asked, listing off random things with ease and a chuckle that she didn't feel but rather pulled the those around them. "Yeah, you truly are your parents' child."

Torben shook his head at Daphne but smiled remembering how she was straight to the point even with cuts and scrapes. He had never been her easiest to heal, always waving anything off as not that big a deal. "Healed here and watch you all worry about me? Not only that they didn't let me go. That's why no one found me." He cleared his throat, "they took me with them and uh.. it wasn't great. I don't really wanna talk about it, Daph. Not here." He looked around, "I'd be dead and still have that." Torben gave a nod, "I know that now. The more years went bad the more the questioned what was the right choice? Was having everyone believe I was dead right? Was coming back and all of you watching me die, right?" He shrugged and laughed, "dad jokes that I should go for the trifecta and get a vamp to turn me. I could be immortal again then, but I really don't care to go through another change. At least this one I can manage the sunlight with." He shook his head, "I know you or Iris would do everything in your power to get me one of those things where I can walk in the sun but this just seems the easiest route."

He shrugged, "I get it honest, from what I've been told." He looked at her with a certainty in his eyes, "if there is one person in this whole world that I trust to heal all my wounds, it's you Aunt Daphne. Even in my stubborn days as a teenager and adult, I'd still always trust you." He shook his head, "If Aunt Iris had been taken by wolves, and if she came back turned.. would you want to watch her die slowly? Grow old with age? I had a lot of things going through my mind honestly. A lot of things I didn't want to put mom and dad through, seems I did that anyway though. I've fucked up a lot and I know there is no way to really fix it, but what time I do have, I plan to spend as much of it here with them and all of you. Maybe a few other people as well."

-🌺-

A smile stretched across Daphne's face. "Since when is anyone not busy in this family?" She asked Viggo with a light chuckle. As it was true. The closer the time drew for Hale's Heir Naming Celebrations, the more busier everyone became. And even before then, the same was also true. Daphne laughed again at Viggo's comment. "Is that a warning? Do you plan to cause a bit of trouble anytime soon?" She wondered aloud, her tone clearly amused.

Dark brown eyes returned to their normal size when Viggo responded. On pure instinct alone, she focused on his emotions when he did so. Nature help him but nearly two centuries old and Viggo was still terrible at lying. She hoped that never changed. "Good," She answered with a resolute nod of her head. Quietly, she listened as he spoke of Hale and gave his unsolicited reasons to not disappoint them. Especially during such an important time. Daphne lightly squeezed his hand again in wordless support. "And thanks. For working to improve your diet. On practicing healthier eating habits. I really am proud of you." She repeated, a soft expression on her features. At his attempt to bargain with her, Daphne laughed. Moments later, still chuckling, she shook her head. "Nope. No dice, sweetheart." After a brief pause, she continued. "Yes, you're an adult. And you have been for a long time. You're not longer the little boy that I'd cuddle with Iris and read countless stories to during bedtime when I could during my visits." A fond look marred Daphne's features before she continued. "So no, you can't be sorry. Not for the past. Because whether you believe it or not, I'm telling you that no, you weren't responsible for maintaining a parental relationship with me. That's my job." A thought came to Daphne and she returned Viggo's hand squeeze with another of her own. "Think of it this way. If you were Scarlett, if she was in your place, and you were me - would you accept that offer? Or would you, being her parent, accept all of the weight instead?" She asked, looking at Viggo to see his reaction, hoping that he would understand her perspective a little more with that scenario in mind. "So, sure, from today forward, yes we can both carry it. But before, no. It was my error. Not yours." Daphne leaned and placed a kiss to Viggo's cheek. Luckily for him, it was lipstick less as she hadn't gotten ready yet. "Now, what do you want us to do with Scarlett, next month? Hmm?"

"Well that's great news! Has an official start date, for the center, been provided yet? It's okay if you don't have that information, just yet. I was curious." Daphne wore genuine look of surprise at the news he shared. "You're enrolled into classes? Oh, that's wonderful. What are you studying? Education? And where are you attending - here in the Forest?" She asked Viggo. "Would you mind sharing - what you're struggling with, with Scarlett? Maybe I can help?" Daphne offered. When he described how he felt with his daughter, the earth nymph grinned as she felt his emotions alongside him. "Yeah well, that's parenting. A love like that - it has a way of digging deep into your spirit." At the mention of the blind date, Daphne nodded. "She did, yes. How did you feel about that? How was that experience for you?"

Viggo shook his head, "no, you don't. I just know everyone is kind of busy right now." He gave a nod at hearing that his mother was getting ready and his smile widened when Daphne said he wasn't in trouble. "I figured not. I don't think I've been in trouble with you in ages." He squeezed her hand feeling whatever she was in the moment.

"Yes, I have. A full breakfast this morning," his head hung, "I wouldn't this for Hale, not in a million years. I've been doing better though, seeing Toni and just doing a lot of self stuff. I'm keeping myself in line. Learning a healthy diet is still touch in go sometimes but I haven't gone without for a while... I haven't gone on a binge either." He was very proud of that part, he felt better making himself not only less of a danger to himself but to others as well. "I'd be lying if I said I didn't skip some meals, but I promise I'm doing better." His brows furrowed at her and he nodded, even though he still felt it was also his responsibility, "I would feel that way, if I wasn't an adult that could come see you on my own but we can both be sorry together and do better together? Deal?" He smiled at her and tightened his grip on her hand, "I would like that very much. Scarlett would also like that, I'm sure."

He gave pause, having to keep himself together for the moment because even though he felt it from Daphne and Iris everyday, some days he did doubt it. "I know, I know you are," it was the brain stuff that made him doubt it, hearing it always made him feel this relief. "it's going good. We're getting everything together and should be breaking down soon. I started taking classes myself too. One day I'll be able to actually teach there with proper accreditation. Therapy, we're making the right moves, and dad stuff, I still struggle with somethings with Scarlett but we're learning together. We have a lot of fun together. I've never felt the happiness I feel when I'm with her." He smiled and placed his hand over hers, holding it to his cheek, "I have no plans of going anywhere. I know it was touch and go but, I promise you, mom, Scarlett, and Hale, I'm not going anywhere unless you all want me to go somewhere."

His brow raised, "did mom tell you about the blind date she set me up on?"

Jackson + Talia @theartofruling

Location: Galerie d'art Gerard, Northland Falls

-⌛-

Dark brows knit in quiet thought as Talia took in the artwork before her. The painting was done by the talented gallery owner, Jackson Gerard. Whom she was there to meet for an appointment. For the past few months, the werewolf entertained an idea that she hoped he would be interested in hearing her out. And if moved, that Jackson could help her with.

The Gerard Art Gallery in the Falls was one of Cedric's favorite places. Hell, it was where the pair enjoyed memorable dates. The recollections of which, Talia quietly shooed away as they tickled her subconscious. For a few seconds, if she closed her eyes, Talia could almost feel Cedric's presence beside her. In the gallery. It was with him in mind, so ever present, that she made the decision and chalked up the courage to finally speak with Jackson. "Count Gerard, thanks for meeting me." She greeted Jackson, sending a light smile his way before briefly returning her attention back onto his work. "This is new. I've not visited the gallery since last year. But I try to keep an eye out for your new works. So this is definitely new. It's beautiful. What inspired it?"

-🧸-

"The fact that I know this is you being on your best behavior..." Evren said, purposely trailing off as a bit of laughter took away her words. The arm that she'd linked with Robin's moved and was tossed over the guardian werewolf's shoulders as the trio walked to the tapas restaurant. Evren's laughter fit erupted again when Talia pointedly asked her how Robin felt. Specifically, if she was sore. Which, to put it bluntly, Robin felt fucking great. Literally. "Well, I'm glad you said it. I mean, I can't feel them with you. But I feel you. And trust me, Tatlı Cadı, that's more than enough." The nymph was more than able to get a contact high from Robin's reminiscient euphoria alone. Evren replied, her own form shaking with amusement at her friends normal bickering, glad to see the patio of the establishment. Perhaps food and alcohol would briefly distract Talia. "You know, you really should've been an attorney." Evren surmised, talking to Talia as she passed Robin and took a seat of her own.

"And wait, you two are finally official? It's no wonder you feel like this! Oh, Robin, I love this for you! This is great news." The guardian nymph ignored Talia's pointed yet interested question of what exactly Robin felt like. "Tal, please." She said, addressing the other woman before agreeing to also share a pitcher. Hell, they'd need several before this discussion was done, the new Monarch was sure of it. "Back to you, Rob. Official? How did it go? Who asked whom? We-" She paused and waved a finger from herself to Talia and back. "-want all the details." Ever so briefly, she paused, looking Robin over again. "...I'm surprised you're even here. Hell, how did Hale not cancel their day to...?" Evren trailed off again, only this time, she kept her eyes on Robin with a pointed gaze and a lifted eyebrow in her direction.

-⌛-

A broad grin etched across Talia's face at Robin's reaction to her question about Prince Charming. It told her everything that she needed to know. Although, Robin also using her words was beyond helpful, too. "Oooh, partner." She paused, shooting a look over to Evren as they continued towards the bar. "Did you hear that, Pooh? Our girl's got a partner now. She's growing up, right before our eyes." Talia sniffled, dramatically, as if near tears. Moments later, she joined Evren, laughing. "Okay, Detective. Look at you, up and at 'em and on your way to solve a new case." When Robin mentioned still feeling phantom effects of her previous night, Talia cheered. "Okay, that is what I wanted to hear. Which, we already knew it was great. But damn, girl, how are you still walking?" She sent Robin a thoroughly amused yet suspicious look since Evren ignored her earlier questions to tell her exactly Robin was feeling. "Are you leaning on your super strength right now to get through the day?"

At Evren's comment that she should've been an attorney, Talia made a face. "No offense to them but I didn't want to go to school forever. Especially with a regular two piece and a biscuit lifespan." The werewolf pointedly ignored to snort of laughter that Evren emitted in response. Instead, Talia ordered the trio their pitcher of sangria. "You guys want something to eat too?" She asked as the other two continued chatting. "And Robbie, I'll keep that gift in mind." Talia sent Robin a playful wink as Evren shook her head but smiled at the pair. "I love yous? Fucking hell, Rob, that's big! No, seriously, I'm so happy for you. How'd that go? The 'I love yous". How did that feel?"

“Because our bodies colliding is always on my mind when I see you.” She was over the moon. If she was being honest. “I mean yes something did happen.” She bit her lip and her cheeks heated when Talía questioned who she was texting. “I was texting my partner, official status. So yes. We made it official last night,” she said as she walked arm and arm with her friends. “I’m game for the bar. She smirked at the sore comment. “Oh trust me, I still feel them today. That we’re official sex was something else. Something…fuck…I don’t even have words for.” 

As they sat, Robin laughed. “I do wish you had that remote. Actually we should do it again for my birthday. The group effort. I’m a fan. Let’s take this friendship to another level,” she joked. “Okay, I’ll stop playing. We can share a pitcher. Honestly, right now I’d probably agree to just about anything. Because in addition to being official, we also shared I love yous.” 

Alden + Talia @theartofruling

Location: Stone Hampton Park, Kings Hill

-⌛-

It was damn near nostalgia that caused Talia to meet her best friend at Stone Hampton Park. One of Alden's favorite places in all of Kings Hill. It was where she found him on more than one occasion, growing up. Hell, by association and sheer pleasant memories alone, it became one of Talia's favorite places too. The park was home to a particularly nice spot, just near the observatory. Another of Talia's favorite things to do, especially at night, was lightly breaking into it and gazing at the stars. A habit that had to change once she began shifting. At least, during the full moon.

But bribing her best friend with food and beer while out on a picnic blanket would do. "Hey," She greeted Alden with a grin and a hug. "Congratulations, engaged guy!" It wasn't the first time they'd seen each other since he proposed. But still, Talia Fiorelli was not above lightly jesting with her friends at their own expense sometimes. Especially when it was all in good fun and love. She jutted her chin towards the cooler that weighted down the blanket. "Got your favorite beer and snacks. C'mon sit." She instructed, hand on Alden's wrist and lightly tugged on it to wordlessly invite the large immortalem to join her in sitting. "I even got the XXL blanket so your feet won't touch the grass." She honestly joked. "So, how've you been? And when are you getting the girls that puppy you promised?"

-⌛-

"You could've declined." Talia said honestly. Slim shoulders rose in a shrug when she spoke as if to help her words. "I would've understood. You're a new King. Hell, a new noble, even. And you're still recovering. No matter what you say." She finished, lifting an index finger towards Sebastian as it wasn't out of character for him to protest that. Even in their limited yet sole interaction before, Talia gleaned that much about him. "So, yeah, thanks for showing up." She finished, a genuine smile on her lips.

The werewolf laughed downright amused by Sebastian's light assurance in himself. "While my mother isn't, I'm still afraid of my Nonna. And I do not want to fight her, or face her wrath, when she finds out I'm sharing family recipes from the Old World with you. King or not. But if you're nice, I'll tweak the recipe enough and write it down for you. How's that?" She offered instead. "You're adventurous? ...Okay, name the last three things you've done recently for the hell of it, then. C'mon, let's hear it." Talia playfully goaded Sebastian, interested to hear his response. "This, Your Majesty, is where you find out that I'm part water bug, let my parents tell it. So you'll have to drag me from the water before I'd fall into it by mistake. Once I'm in, it's hard for me to leave." She shared with an open smile. "What about you? Do you like the water?"

"Good," Talia began with a nod. "Clear headed is great. It's also good to hear. And have you been eating well? Sleeping well, too?" She asked Sebastian as the pair boarded the boat. "I'm improving, I feel." Talia settled safely into her seat, buckled in, and listened to the instructor as they headed out to find a good sport to begin parasailing. "Each day, it's like I'm getting more pieces of myself back since Cedric passed. Ones that I can fit into my life now. I never expected to see this being my life now. But each day, living with the grief of being a widow hurts less. If that makes any sense."

"I figured I should come," he joked as he approached the Countess on the dock. The coma wasn't a fair excuse to back out of things anymore. Sebastian knew he had to be a good steward of the new relationships that were coming with his title as King. Plus, he genuinely enjoyed Talia's company, which brought back the fond memories of catching up with his old friends in Haven. With them, everything was stripped away, and he wasn't a king; he was just simply Sebastian. "Besides, I thought I'd try to smooth-talk myself into getting some more recipes from your family's stash." The stew was decent, and it even had some of his guards talking.

"I like to think of myself as an adventurous person and enjoy trying out new things," he said, while shrugging his shoulders lightly. Even though being here made Sebastian feel a bit uneasy, he thought that doing an activity with a trusted friend would be a good way to spend his time. He hoped that being out on the water would help him relax more. "Moreover, if you happen to fall into the water, that would be rather amusing for me. That's just an added bonus," he said, smiling at her as he began to board the boat. Offering his hand to help her get on board, he nodded thoughtfully. "I'm feeling a bit more clear-headed than I have in some time, so that's a good sign. What about you?"