reinaxc

[reinaxc]

The Deputy looked up as Leonor entered the cell, her heart lifting at the sight of her dear friend, yet weighed down by the gravity of their situation. She could see the mix of emotions on Leonor's face—anger, concern, and an underlying determination that Maya knew well. "Leonor," Maya said softly, squeezing her hands in return, grateful for her presence. "It's good to see you. Thank you for being here." She paused, knowing Leonor needed answers as much as reassurance. "They've accused France and Florence of actions I personally haven't committed, I had no part in. It's an abuse of power, plain and simple." Her voice was calm, though a trace of frustration crept into her tone.

Maya's gaze softened, her eyes reflecting gratitude for Leonor's steadfastness. "Nicholas... How is he holding up? I can't bear the thought of him worrying about me."

@reinaxc | Leonor & Maya

Leonor paced back and forth outside the dimly lit cells, her heart pounding with a mix of anger and desperation. The injustice of the situation gnawed at her, a constant reminder of the precariousness of their world. How could they imprison Maya her dear friend, and confidante? The thought was unbearable. When she had first heard the news, Leonor had immediately taken in Nicholas, Maya’s eight-year-old son. The boy had clung to her, his eyes wide with confusion and fear. She had reassured him, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. She had promised him that his mother would be safe, and that she would do everything in her power to make things right.

Now, standing in the cold, damp corridor, Leonor’s fury simmered just below the surface. She had persuaded one of the guards to finally opened the door, and she was ushered into the cell where Maya sat. “Mon ami,” Leonor breathed, her voice a mixture of relief and frustration. She crossed the small space in a few strides and took Maya’s hands in her own. “This is an outrage. How could they do this to you?”

[reinaxc]

Maya’s thoughts turned to the larger picture—the political ramifications of their detainment. She knew that their imprisonment was a calculated move, a way to assert power and control. It infuriated her that those in power could treat people like pawns, holding them accountable for decisions made in the shadows. "That’s true, Nicolette. We often place too much faith in those with power, even when they make poor decisions." Maya’s voice came through clearly.

The Deputy Prime Minister leaned slightly against the bars, her demeanor calm. "It's frustrating to watch as the consequences of their actions affect everyone, regardless of status. We need to find a way to communicate this, to ensure that they understand the implications of their choices."

who: open 2/3

where: the cells

Nicolette was scheming. Already in her head there was a speech beginning to form. One which condemned every person who thought holding an entire nation at fault for the crimes of a few was warranted. Who treated the noble and common so differently. Drafting and redrafting it over and over in her mind was helping to keep her calm. Stopping her from panicking.

Her eyes were closed, trying to drown out her surroundings, when she spoke aloud. "A crown is merely a hat that lets the rain in, yet we give so much power to those who wear them..."

She had not expected a reply, not considering the potential for people to be visiting or listening from the surrounding cells, and jumped when she heard a voice.

[reinaxc]

Maya looked up from the cot, her eyes meeting Cédric's through the dim light filtering into their cells. She offered him a tired yet reassuring smile, her composed demeanor betraying none of the turmoil she felt inside. "Cédric," she replied softly, her voice steady and calm despite their circumstances. "I'm holding up, considering everything. Thank you for asking." She paused, her gaze becoming more focused, reflecting the shared determination they both felt. "Before everything happened, I left my son with the Ambassador of Spain. I trust her completely, and I know he'll be safe with her." When the guards had come for her, offering special treatment due to her position and her child, Maya had made a deliberate choice. Despite the fear gnawing at her, she had declined any preferential treatment. It was a decision born out of principle and a deep sense of responsibility. She couldn't afford to be seen as taking advantage of her status, especially not when so many others were suffering. Maya shifted on the cot, leaning slightly closer to the bars.

Her expression hardened as anger flickered in her eyes. "This heavy-handed approach, detaining the French court and Florence without due cause and due evidence. is only going to escalate tensions and create more enemies... I fear for France. They need to realize that such actions undermine the very stability they're trying to maintain.""

@reinaxc | Cedric & Maya the day after the arrests.

As dawn's first light filtered through the small, barred window of his cell, Cédric stretched his stiff limbs, his anger from the previous night now a controlled and focused determination. His mind was set on finding answers and ensuring the safety of those he cared about. In the adjacent cell, the Deputy Prime Minister of France, Maya, sat on a small cot.

Cédric rose and approached the bars separating them, his voice low and steady. "Maya," he called softly, ensuring his tone conveyed both concern and camaraderie. "Are you all right?"

[reinaxc]

{adria arjona, 32, she/her} we are so glad to see you safe, LADY AMARA SALAZAR of CARDIFF! it’s dangerous out in the world these days, but i hear that you are  KINDHEARTED and EMPATHETIC  enough to handle it. just don’t let your INGENUOUSLY bring you down! stay on your guard, because with your secret being at risk for exposure, you wouldn’t want everyone to find out YOU OVERHEARD ABOUT A PLOT THAT CAN PLACE YOUR LOVER AT RISK. (its me mara)

Background:

Lady Amara Salazar of Cardiff, originally hailing from a lesser noble family in Puerto Rico. Her early life and childhood was marred by tragedy and abuse. Amara shared a close bond with her little sister Carla, spending countless hours together and forming a deep connection. However, this happiness was shattered when her sister fell gravely ill. Amara stayed by her side, offering care and companionship, but despite her efforts, her sister passed away.

Amara's father, Don Carlos Salazar, was a stern and traditional man who managed the family’s modest estate and small coffee plantation. Despite their noble status, the family’s finances were often strained, adding to the pressures Carlos felt. After the loss of his youngest daughter, Carlos was consumed by grief and anger, directing his blame toward Amara. To cope with his pain, he resorted to drinking heavily, and when drunk, he would treat Amara terribly, subjecting her to both verbal and occasional physical abuse.

Amara's mother, Doña Angelica Dapena, was a gentle and nurturing woman who initially tried to maintain peace within the household. She was devoted to her children and spent her days tending to the household and supporting her husband's endeavors. However, the death of her youngest daughter proved too much for Angelica to bear. Unable to handle the family's turmoil and her husband’s increasing hostility, she abandoned the family shortly after her youngest daughter’s death, leaving Amara to bear the brunt of her father's anger alone.

Despite these hardships, Amara's inherent kindness and empathy shone through. She found solace in activities that allowed her to escape her difficult reality. She would immerse herself in novels, losing herself in stories of far-off places and better times. Amara also expressed herself through painting, creating beautiful artworks that reflected her inner world.

Horseback riding became another of her cherished pastimes, providing a sense of freedom and escape. Additionally, Amara was deeply connected to her community. She would often help her neighbors with tasks such as picking coffee or sugar cane, offering her assistance whenever it was needed. Her willingness to help others and her genuine concern for their well-being made her a beloved figure in her community.

Her beauty caught the eye of a high lord who sought her hand in marriage. Seeing this as an escape from her father's torment, she accepted, though her father made the decision driven solely by financial gain, disregarding her wishes.

Her marriage brought her to Cardiff, where her new husband treated her with gentleness and respect. Their relationship, built on mutual respect, evolved into a deep friendship over the years. Amara embraced her new role, receiving education in etiquette and household management, and dutifully attended social events at her husband's side.

At one of these events, Amara met Philip, a Viscount, whose presence stirred emotions in her that she had longed to feel. Despite being married, Philip captivated her, and Amara, who had always yearned for true love, found herself drawn to him. She desires love and to be loved, without expecting anything in return.

Personality:

Amara's kindhearted and empathetic nature is both her strength and her vulnerability. Her ingenuousness can sometimes lead her into precarious situations. She is a woman defined by her resilience, kindness, and empathy. She is loyal to her responsibilities and the people she cares about. She diligently attended social events with her husband and learned how to manage a household. Her sense of duty extends to her community, where she is always ready to lend a helping hand. Amara’s brave yet vulnerable nature drives her to protect those she loves, even at great personal risk. 

Secret and Motivations:

She harbors a profound secret that weighs heavily on her heart. Recently, she overheard a dangerous plot that threatens the safety of Philip, the Viscount who has captured her affections. This revelation has placed her in a precarious position, torn between her desire to protect Philip and the risk of exposing herself to danger and betrayal.Amara's motivations stem from her deep-seated yearning for love and emotional connection. Her marriage, while respectful, lacks the passionate love she craves. Meeting Philip awakened dormant desires within her, igniting a fervent longing for true intimacy and companionship. 

[reinaxc]

★.    ───      LYANNA HELMINSKI  :  TAG DUMP

★.    ───   LYANNA HELMINSKI :  THREAD

★.    ───   LYANNA HELMINSKI :  MIRROR

★.    ───    LYANNA HELMINSKI  :  MUSINGS

★.    ───    LYANNA HELMINSKI  :  CHARACTER STUDY

★.    ───    LYANNA HELMINSKI  :  ANSWERED

★.    ───    LYANNA    FT.

[reinaxc]

★.    ───      AMARA SALAZAR  :  TAG DUMP

★.    ───   AMARA SALAZAR :  THREAD

★.    ───   AMARA SALAZAR :  MIRROR

★.    ───    AMARA SALAZAR  :  MUSINGS

★.    ───    AMARA SALAZAR  :  CHARACTER STUDY

★.    ───    AMARA SALAZAR  :  ANSWERED

★.    ───    AMARA   FT.

[reinaxc]

Lorena blushed slightly at Isaak's comment about his mother loving her, feeling a hint of shyness but also appreciating the sentiment. She was grateful for that moment for the dim lighting, she hoped the Tsar hadn't noticed. "Well, I'm honored to receive such approval, Your Grace," she replied with a playful glint in her eye. "I hope I can live up to her expectations. Perhaps I should send her a letter, seeking her advice on how to win over the hearts of monarchs and diplomats alike." She cherished Spain not just as a place on a simple map but as a living entity, a nation shaped by centuries of struggle, triumph, and cultural richness.

She listened attentively, her mind bridging the gap between the political intricacies of Spain and the historical perspectives Isaak brought forth. "Indeed, the loss of Castile is a significant challenge," Lorena responded, her tone reflective yet poised. The Bonaparte legacy in Castile represented more than just a political holdover; it symbolized a lingering challenge to the Ortiz family's reforms and democratic aspirations. "Castile remains a pivotal piece in the puzzle of our nation's unity, yet, it has tested our resilience and forced us to reevaluate our strategies." Then again, it was clear that the South of Spain needed allies more than ever.

Princess Lorena graciously acknowledged the Tsar's gratitude. "You are welcome," she replied warmly. "the concepts of civil wars is a matter of great interest to me as well, I truly wish I had the solution for this looming war. No one is thinking about the civilians and the consequences that war brings to them." She wished fervently that her beloved nation could overcome its current challenges. In her heart, she longed for Spain to find a path to stability and unity, free from the turmoil that currently clouded its horizon. Lorena listened intently to Isaak's words, understanding the weight of his experience. With a compassionate gaze, she replied softly, "I appreciate your empathy; it's difficult but I believe it's necessary to speak of it. The scars of such conflicts run deep, leaving lasting marks on both land and people." Her own vivid experience rushes in to mind. "Given your experience and insights, may I ask for your opinion on the matter."

Though not unused to taking such position upon a floor, and usually one less clean than this, the Tsar nodded in equal efforts to diffuse whatever comfortability may linger. He could sense it upon her hesitation, her features... but not as well versed in knowing what was proper, he did not think twice of sitting in a quiet, secluded galleria, with a beautiful princess, to discuss by candlelit the horrors of war. this was a regular tuesday afternoon, home in russia. minus the princess, of course.

Progress, equality - forging iron through fire, just as his family tried to bend the will of ice to their fantasies. Russia's rebuilding was a slow, gradual ascent, one that took far too long, and he resonated with Lorena's words. They brought to his features a deeper, more genuine smile. " My mother would love you. You almost sound like her right now. " if she were capable of such warmth in her tone, that is. He left this unsaid, but returned his eyes intently to the tracing of her finger. Information burned into his mind, and new questions appearing to ponder now.

" That does make sense about Castile, though it must have been a crushing blow to the agenda, losing control over the territory. " Probably why, Isaak wagered, they had allowed it to remain with the Bonaparte's touch still ablaze. What losses would come of a victory, if those who were conquered refused not to stand from their bent knee to the Bonaparte's? Oh, he'd read the history; the rise && fall of faces he never knew, would never know, likely. Eyes returned to Lorena's. She cared, and it was refreshing. " Thank you for showing me. Civil war is of great particular interest of mine, and I try my best to study it when I have such valuable opportunity. To understand it, to prevent it. "

That was his job; Isaak, protector of the peace, all but against his will. Or, as he was less ceremoniously dubbed, Tsar of Maths. Strategy and finance and every bit of thought, it seemed, would fall on his shoulders. At least he had the pleasure of discussing, for once, a Kingdom not of his own responsibility. He could marvel with less panic of the wonder of war. " I am sorry, if this is hard to talk about. Trust me... I know of the horrors that arise from a region left broken, damaged, turned && split in two. The recovery... it will always leave glaring, garish scars. "

[reinaxc]

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the boat race, Lorena found herself navigating a sea of faces and conversations, each wave of interaction washing over her with varying degrees of familiarity and formality. The glittering waters of the Brazilian sun played a backdrop to the event, casting shimmering reflections that seemed to mirror the complexity of her thoughts. Despite her initial reluctance to attend, Lorena couldn't deny the strategic importance of being present. The boat race, with its mingling of dignitaries, diplomats, and influential figures, offered a crucial opportunity to foster alliances and reinforce the Ortiz family's position amidst the political turbulence gripping Spain. She knew her role extended beyond mere participation; it demanded grace. Yet, as she exchanged pleasantries and engaged in polite discourse, a part of her longed for the quietude of solitude.

With a gracious smile, Lorena responded to King Harald's compliment, her voice carrying a hint of admiration for his appreciation of the maritime event. "Your Majesty," Lorena began, her tone reflective of both the festivities and the solemn backdrop, "I'm delighted to hear that you find the event to your liking. It's heartening to hear such praise from a seasoned sailor like yourself."

"By any chance, is your kingdom participating in today's race?" she inquired with a warm smile, genuinely interested in the event's broader participation. "And forgive me if it's too bold of a request, but I'd love to hear about your experiences as a sailor. I must admit, I have very little personal experience with sailing, but I find the sea and its lore fascinating."

Closed starter: Harald Oldenburg and Lorena Catalina Ortiz (@reinaxc)

Where: Boat Race Concorrência

Watching the boats race across the water in the Brazilian sun, one could not help but be impressed by the spectacle of the Ortiz's event. Those in attendance looked jovial, caught up in the excitement and energy of the event. It was difficult to imagine that the Tribunals were soon approaching and that so much death and chaos had preceded such events including a recent death on the way to Brazil. Though Harald had been out of the loop for three years, he was beginning to gain bits and pieces of what he had missed, though keeping it all straight was proving to be a challenge. The water, however, always seemed to bring with it a clarity, making Harald feel more himself. He approached one of the Ortiz family and gave a small bow. "The event has been exquisitely organized. As a sailor myself, I appreciate the talent it takes to organize all these fine boats for the race."

[reinaxc]

" Your Highness," Lorena acknowledged warmly, her voice carrying a gentle cadence. "No need for apologies. I understand completely. The ocean has a way of drawing out our thoughts and offering a kind of solace that's hard to find elsewhere."

She turned her gaze towards the expansive view of the azure waves, the sun casting a golden hue over the water. "It truly is beautiful," she agreed softly, her own thoughts momentarily drifting. "I often find myself drawn here when the weight of the world feels heavy. It's as if the sea holds the answers we seek, or at least eases our burdens for a while." Lorena glanced back at the Athens Princess, offering a reassuring smile. "Are you finding peace here, amidst the waves?" She paused briefly coming to her senses, "Forgive me for not introducing myself earlier. I'm Lorena Ortiz" she said with a gentle smile.

The beach and the ocean provided solace for Lunara, it was where she returned whenever she had a lot on her mind, and her thoughts had consumed her so much that she couldn't hear the other person on the beach until they were close enough to speak to, turning her gaze from the pale blue waves and on to the spanish princess. They'd met a few times but never had bene fully introduced. "Your highness," she greeted, smiling at her and then back at the water, "I'm sorry you caught me at a time when the ocean seemed to absorb all the thoughts spinning around in my head. It is truly beautiful,"

[reinaxc]

As Lorena watched Meilin's distress over her lost earring, her thoughts drifted back to a painful memory of her own. The necklace her mother had given her, a cherished heirloom passed down through generations, had slipped from her neck during those harrowing days of captivity. She remembered the panic that had gripped her then, the desperate search through unfamiliar surroundings, hoping against hope to find it but she never did. Lorena knelt beside Meilin "I understand it feels overwhelming right now," she said gently, her voice calm and empathetic. "But sometimes, the tide brings back what it takes away. Let's stay here for a moment and see. Perhaps we'll get lucky." Lorena glanced out at the gentle waves lapping the shore, hoping they might return what Meilin had lost.

Meilin barely looked at the woman, her eyes were so trained on the sand. But the calming effect her voice has on Meilin was instant. She took a deep breath and then another, nodding and willing the lump in her throat to go down. She started to walk backwards, retracing her steps as best as she could. But it wasn't long before she collapsed to her knees. "It's no use...Stop, just stop. There's no way to find it, a little black speck among a million specks. Thank you, really, but," she sighed, feeling like she may cry. "It's gone."

[reinaxc]

The Spanish princess found the Duchess words heartwarming. "The way the sun kisses the ocean, painting the sky in shades of gold and blue—it's like a painting come to life." She paused, taking in the tranquil scene before answering the woman question. "I've been fortunate to visit many beaches, but each time I see waters this blue and clear, it still feels like the first," Lorena replied with a soft chuckle, her gaze sweeping across the tranquil scene. The gentle breeze played with her hair, carrying the salty tang of the sea and the warmth of the setting sun. "There's a certain magic to the ocean, isn't there? It's as if it holds therapeutic properties with every wave." She walked a few steps closer to the shoreline, feeling the cool touch of the water as it washed over her feet.  "How about you, if you had to choose, what has been the most beautiful one?"

if she had to chose a favorite place, it was a warm beach such as this one. the sun, the ocean. perhaps instead of an italian villa, someday, she would settle down with riches on a beach somewhere — far away from the eyes of others. when someone spoke, she turned her head. lucia gave her a light smile, nodding her head.

" if you are enjoying it, then yes — i am. " the duchess answered, " i'm rather fond of beaches, of the ocean. are you? or is this your first time seeing it?" she asked, knowing there were surely those here that had not ever had the pleasure of seeing the ocean in such beauty. " i must admit, even with how many times i have seen the ocean — i never tire of it. not waters this blue and clear. "

[reinaxc]

Maya's grief was not just for the loss of a husband but also for the future they had envisioned together, a future where they would raise Nicholas in a stable, loving home. Henri’s death during the Reckoning had shattered that dream, thrusting Maya into the role of both mother and father, protector, and provider. She was in peace knowing that Henri would be proud of how she had managed to carry on, honoring his memory by striving to create a better future for their son and their country. Despite the pain of his absence, Henri’s influence continued to shape their lives.

"Your Majesty," Maya greeted respectfully, her voice soft. "Loss leaves a profound mark on us, doesn't it? It's something that shapes us in ways we never expect." She gestured towards Nicholas, who was now playing with other children in the courtyard, their laughter and games filling the air with a sense of joy and innocence. "Yes, that's my son, Nicholas," Maya replied with a fond smile. "He brings light and laughter to my life, reminding me of hope even on the hardest days."

Loss was not a stranger to the King's life - in fact, history was dotted with it. A loss of confidence, his parents then a sibling, followed by his children. If you were to flip the pages of Thanin's memories, they would be drenched in the shades of mourning; and despite the bright sun ahead, and such beauty of Brazil's bounty, this sadness was always lingering close by. No amount of papers and pages of work scattered in a semi-circle around him would distract from those who were not there; those who should be. He liked to hear the children's laughter, the way it inspired some small amount of hope for the future; a secret brewed in his life, a new tale dotted with something aside from the heaviness of grief. " I did not mean to startle you... " Thanin answered softly, after being noticed. He'd risen from his mountain of paperwork, moving to the other with such a haunted, familiar look in their eye. He'd not meant to hear the words whispered into the wind - but he had. Hearing was at least one of the strengths yet still intact for the hermit King. A smile of understanding reached his lips. " I also come to sit here, and think of those not still with us. Is that one yours? " He gestured to the small boy at play.

[reinaxc]

Maya nodded in agreement, her diplomatic training guiding her response. "They do have a timeless charm, don't they?" she replied warmly. "I'm sorry, but I don't believe we've been introduced. I'm Maya Rousseau, the Deputy Prime Minister of France, and this is my son, Nicholas." The mother smiled warmly at her son, encouraging him gently. "Nicholas, why don't you say hello to our new friend?" With his ever so curious and friendly nature, he turned to the woman with a bright grin. "Salut" he exclaimed cheerfully, his youthful energy evident in his voice.

Elisa had a particular fondness for France. For all the Orleans' decadence they had a sense of self preservation that was admirable, to say the least. Gilded puppets, bowing to a constitutional monarchy. And soon, God willing, to no monarchy at all. When she noticed the Deputy Prime Minister and who she presumed to be her little son in the courtyard, Elisa decided to take a stroll herself. As she came closer, the boy pointed at her - probably because of the bruises still on her face and neck. "There is no need to apologize," she smiled sweetly, "I just thought the fresh air would do me some good. "Hello," she said to the boy before turning back to his mother. "I love the courtyards...they look just as I've remembered them..."

[reinaxc]

Maya considered Safiye's words, her heart heavy with understanding. "You're right, madam. Wars, as horrible as they are, often have a declared purpose, a twisted sense of order and morality within their violence. But what we see now... it feels like intended chaos, cruelty without bounds and the destruction of what we hold dear." She sighed, her eyes reflecting the depth of her own sorrow and fear. When Henri was taken from Maya during the Reckoning, it felt like the very ground beneath her feet had been pulled away. "It's a painful truth," Maya began, her voice gentle yet firm. "They forget the lives lost, the futures erased. It's a kind of hubris, thinking they can play god and manipulate the course of history however I fear this is just the beginning"

She glanced at the ground for a moment, memories of Henri flashing through her mind—his warm smile, his reassuring presence, and the way he had always stood by her side. "I lost my husband, Henri, during the Reckoning," she continued, her voice tinged with sadness. "He was a man of integrity and kindness, caught in the crossfire of political ambitions and violence."

“ It is so strange. “ Safiye blurted in earnest, head nodding in agreement with Maya’s words. “ Wars make sense. Tragic and despicable and always the wrong choice, but… “ they followed order, they held morals within their violence. Oftentimes, motives for aggression were declared && clear. This display before her… the roots seemed untraceable. It was frightening, and Safiye shivered, wrapping arms tighter about herself with a deepening frown. “ Unsettling indeed… “ she sighed, wishing for innocence restored. Her brother was among those who had fallen; maybe she, too, was motivated by fear of the same happening to her. Where the prisoners somewhere below them used fear as a weapon, Safiye clung to hers as a reason to stay pure. “ It’s like they chose to become Gods and alter the course of history. “

[reinaxc]

"Not at all, Leonor. Your presence is always welcome," she replied, her voice reflecting the warmth she felt.  "This place does have a certain serenity." She moved slightly to make space for Leonor on the blanket, nodding in approval. "Please, join me," Maya said, gesturing to the spot beside her.

As Leonor settled down, the Deputy Prime Minister followed her gaze to Nicholas, who was running around with a group of other children, his laughter ringing out in the courtyard. "Nicholas is eight," she answered, her eyes softening with maternal pride. "He does have a way of bringing light wherever he goes. It's a gift, especially in times like these." Maya's smile deepened as she remembered their shared history. "It's been quite a journey since we first met at the English court, hasn't it?" she said, her voice tinged with nostalgia."I'm grateful for the friendship we've built, beyond the realms of politics." She reached out, giving Leonor's hand a gentle squeeze. "It's been too long. How has life been treating you?"

Leonor approached Maya with a soft smile, her demeanor warm and understanding. The tranquil setting of the Twin Soul Courtyards seemed to invite a sense of peace and reflection. "I hope I'm not intruding," Leonor began gently, her tone carrying a genuine concern. "This place holds such tranquility, doesn't it? A haven for moments of quiet contemplation." She gestured towards the cozy blanket spread beneath the ancient oak. "May I join you?" Leonor asked politely, indicating her desire to sit down beside Maya. "Please don't apologize if I'm the one intruding. Leonor settled down gracefully, her eyes briefly wandering to Nicholas, Maya's son, playing happily nearby. "Your son brings such joy to the courtyard," she remarked warmly, acknowledging the lively spirit he brought to the serene surroundings. "How old is he?"

[reinaxc]

#REINAXC  .  dependent multi  -  muse  blog for theopulent.hq penned by Mara. (twenty six, eastern tmz, she/her).

PRINCESS LORENA CATALINA ORTIZ of SPAIN - intro. DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER MAYA ROUSSEAU of FRANCE - intro. GRAND DUCHESS LYANNA HELMINSKI of WOLIN - intro. LADY AMARA SALAZAR of CARDIFF - intro.

[reinaxc]

Lorena's eyes sparkled with appreciation for the woman's poetic sentiment as she listened to her words about the ocean's allure. "I understand what you mean," Lorena replied softly, her voice carrying a hint of wonder. "The ocean has a way of drawing us in, inviting us to explore its mysteries and depths." She glanced out at the waves rolling gently onto the shore, the sun casting a golden hue over the water. "In Spain, near my family's estate, there's a beach where I used to spend hours as a child," Lorena continued, a nostalgic smile playing on her lips. "The sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs, the salty breeze... it always felt like a gateway to another world, my imagination always ran free."

Being away from the temple of Athena had freed up many hours of Safiye's day; and she found, she did not enjoy to spend this time cooped up within Paço Imperial palace. Shoes in hand, the lady trawled the beach, stopping to listen to the tales of the devil's side from the locals, feeling warm from the kiss of the setting sun. She may be twinged red across her nose, come morning, but Safiye held no regrets as she allowed water to wash over her toes, chin tilted && eyes closed as she tried to hear the sounds of sea through the wind. The Gods communicated through nature; and it was hard not to feel seen by greater beings when surrounded by such beauty. " The view... the feel of it all. " This, Safiye said eyes still closed, before opening them to turn && greet the speaker. " It is hard not to imagine you could just walk right into the ocean, enter a new world. "