"... they overwhelmed the garrison without much effort. Hells, even with effort, there wasn't anything we could've done. You didn't see it, man. It was an avalanche of bodies. It was over the moment they reached the walls. Just swept us all aside."

- Unknown Ingramarian Strelet, Interrogation Room A-3, "Survivor Recounting To Authorities"

Feeling out of place had become something of a speciality for Lucinia as of late. Today was no different as they made their way back to the palace. First she had been a princess advocating for peace in a nation of war. Then an outcast amongst the nobility. A courtier in the midst of adventurers. And now what she presumed to be, a morally upstanding but otherwise unremarkable physically human in an entourage of saints, outlanders, mythical creatures, elves, and some magic cursed child amongst other things. Even her immediate 'bodyguard' as befitting her status despite being a former noble, seemed utterly out of place. A minotaur at least three full heads taller than her, towering above even the church escorts, and most certainly dwarfing her in his entirety.

Outfit-wise, it was no better. The saintesses and saint wore upscale commoners attire. Buttoned blouses and pants but nothing overtly ostentatious. Sigrid and Hanabi didn't even bother dressing for the occasion. Elaria and Raylani both wore slightly more formal versions of their performance fare, whilst Aryana was the only one who really shared her sense of style with a frilly dress if still paired with somewhat tight pants underneath that didn't exactly fit the occasion. The two of them looked even more stark in comparison to the heads of the respective parties. Lady Rosengart wore formal ceremonial uniform of sorts, while Sophie and her sister Sophia were clad head to toe in a militaristic light cavalryman's uniform barring her hair clip.

Lucinia gritted her teeth and tried to practice smiling instead. If I had known ahead of time that our dress code was to be 'nothing fancy', I would've wasted less time and space picking and packing a damned dress for this stupid trip. Gah, these abominable fools. She cursed under her breath.

Taking a deep breath, she clicked her tongue and let herself relax a little. In a way, she was back in society. It wasn't the ideal method nor was it the way that she had ever envisioned herself being. But she was at a ball, of sorts. Maybe that was about as best that she could do. And though there was a lingering yearning for more, for a grander reentrance to society. She would have to be satisfied.

Her task too, was a far cry from the central role that she once had to play at such events. As princess of Traxia, she would naturally have been expected to give some sort of speech. Whether it was short or not didn't matter, only that the imperial family had to make their presence known and to ensure that their word was spread. Today, she was to be nothing more than a part of the background, and alongside some of her less well dressed colleagues to be Aryana's minders given Sophie likely falling into the sightlines of the Carradorian nobility. And here I am, a glorified orderly, she almost scoffed.

"You seem bothered, Lady Lucinia." Aryana's quiet whisper reached her ears.

Lucinia tried to hide her frown when she turned to meet the girl's inquiring gaze. There was an earnestness there that was refreshing. In contrast to the usual faces one might find at court who remained guarded, controlled, and secretive. Aryana wore her emotions on her sleeve and did a poor job of hiding them should she ever swing between them. Seeing the genuine concern wrinkled across the girl's brow, Lucinia let herself release a small sigh. The tiny puff of air sounding almost deafening against the hushed conversations and footsteps echoing down the halls of the Carradorian palace.

"Nothing to worry yourself over, Aryana." She answered.

On cue, the moment Aryana's name echoed even slightly, she could see the half elf up front almost pause to try and take a look. Pah, how predictable.

Aryana's gaze did not waver however, the girl's concern still etched clearly across her face. For a brief moment, Lucinia even wanted to reach down and give her a small pat of affirmation. In her own way, she understood why Sophie was so fond of the girl. A warm mix of curiosity, gentleness and concern.

Lucinia sighed once more.

"Merely concerned about the ball, Aryana." She tried to answer once more.

"Why's that?" The girl immediately tried to follow up.

Lucinia almost arched her eyebrows before remembering that her companion likely had little to no experience of such formal events. Hells, I doubt she'd even have anything of the sort up in the Frostwinds. Come to think of it, what does one do in the Frostwinds for fun? Lucinia briefly balked at the not so distant possibility of being stuck on the frozen mountains for an extended period of time. Shaking away that horrible thought, she hummed for a moment before replying.

"Usually, if we are the ones to be on display, that is to say, take center stage alongside Lady Rosengart. One would expect a little more practice. Or perhaps a little more lessons and hints about needed etiquette and traditions of the court here. Things that would ensure we do not offend or break cultural norms." Lucinia grumbled.

"Oh." Aryana's face drooped a little, the girl looking almost disappointed by the overly pragmatic answer.

"It's just that these things usually require a lot of planning and preparations. In fact, I was quite surprised at how rushed our preparations had to be, if you're wondering."

Aryana hummed thoughtfully to herself, evidently considering this new avenue of thought quite seriously. Noticing the girl's worsening mood, Lucinia offered a small consolatory observation.

"But if we are aiming to make an impact, I would not hesitate to say that this errant group of ours would certainly do so. Eclectic fashion choices aside." She couldn't help but add the last words with a mumble.

Aryana at least responded positively with a small snicker.

"Would you not agree?" Lucinia seized on the chance to propose a bit of friendly prodding.

"Mmm." Aryana grunted noncommittally, "I think she would look nice in a dress."

"Pfft."

"What?"

"I do not think I would be able to visualize that."

"Heh."

The two shared a weak chuckle. Lucinia could visualize Sophie being formal, though she absolutely couldn't see her dancing. Stars above, that would be a strange sight, I wonder…

Next to them, Sigrid let out a questioning coo to which Hanabi bobbed her head like she just understood something profound.

"What is it?" Lucinia queried, drawing Aryana's attention to the other duo as well.

Hanabi shot them a tired looking smile before giving Sigrid a nudge. The mermaid let out an annoyed trill before beaming at the other two. Aryana enthusiastically waved back while Lucinia opted for a polite and measured half bow. Sigrid responded with a delighted trill and Aryana giggled happily. Whatever was said remained unknown to Lucinia. While in theory she could read the mermaid's expressions and body language to try and ascertain a message. In practice, it was far too confusing.

Hanabi offered an olive branch of sorts upon noticing Lucinia's deepening frown. The outlander striding closer to give her a hopefully not condescending pat on the pat, much to her irritation.

"Sigrid-san, err, Sigrid, sorry, force of habit, was just wondering if there was anything more she should've prepared. Even she's a little antsy about everything." Hanabi explained.

"Oh? Indeed? I suppose such functions must be intimidating even for… her. So… does that mean you can understand her?"

Hanabi snorted, "I'm not a miracle worker Lucinia-se, err, Lady Lucinia. I can only infer and ask her. She hasn't disagreed so far, so at least my intuition is on point. I hope."

Lucinia had to hide a small scowl, choosing instead to force out a friendly smile. She saw no issue with Hanabi's response, nor were there any lies. But like most things she'd come to discover, there were constantly more and more things that the rest of the group just seemed to be far better than her at doing or perceiving. While it wasn't an issue in and of itself, it was just a little bit vexing for her own pride.

"Well, that's nice." Lucinia mustered out a reply.

"Hah, no need to be so tense either. From the way they described it," Hanabi threw a thumb towards where Eva and Sophie were now discussing something, "This gathering will be like a… a… pass or fail exam. But the only ones taking it are them, we're just here to be in the background." Hanabi gave her a toothy grin.

"Tch." Lucinia let out an unwitting snigger.

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"Ah-hah! See? You wouldn't laugh if you didn't think that at some point."

Lucinia just rolled her eyes, though she also found a more welcoming smile spreading on her cheek.

"And if you're worried about your people, we'll be here." Hanabi puffed out her chest, "He's here too." She threw a quick glance at Sir Taurox.

Lucinia followed her gaze and felt a small chill run down her spine. Although the minotaur was clad in ceremonial armors and leg plates to overtly indicate his status as a warrior. He was able to move with surprising silence to the point where Lucinia realized that he could step as delicately as a mouse, barely raising the ambient noise in contrast to the templars who clanked their way forward in their armors. It terrified her that a monster his size could be so stealthy without really trying. She would've rather his presence was more sonorous, like a heavily armed knight announcing his arrival with the clattering of his gear leading the charge.

"Worry not, my lady. I will perform my duty." He affirmed.

With only a simple phrase, the minotaur's voice still cut through the din of the assembled party. More than a few of the others at the front turned to cast curious glances at whatever might have caused the giant to speak. Lucinia winced at the attention thrown their way so suddenly. For a moment even gaining a glimpse of understanding for how measured and controlled the minotaur could be. I suppose it's not like they can hide when they speak. Still, it's almost impressive how he can mask his presence so easily.

"Of course. That was never in doubt." She quickly answered.

Hanabi nodded approvingly before flashing her a cheeky wink.

"See? No worries!" The outlander chuckled, "Besides, you and Aryana are the only ones dressed up for the occasion anyways. And you two look beautiful." The girl casually declared.

Despite the off handed nature of her comment, the praise still made Lucinia blush a little. Aryana also giggled a little upon hearing it, yet the girl's gaze was reserved ever forward towards where Sophie was.

"Ach, I appreciate the compliment." Lucinia murmured.

Hanabi just looked excessively smug at the acknowledgement. Sigrid let out a soft trill and alerted them to a change in the situation at hand. Casting their attention to the mermaid's call, they found a small escort of Carradorian knights waiting for them. Ah, well, I suppose we can't just stay chatting forever.

"Guests of Carrador and the church, my liege bids you welcome and to offer our services as necessary." The lead Carradorian knight announced loudly upon noticing their approach.

"We are honored by your courtesy." Lady Rosengart replied on cue, the Carradorian outlander making an exaggerated bow in response.

Before anyone else could bow, Mila stepped forwards from the flank and merely saluted.

"The church of Astralis also offers thanks for your hospitality."

"And we are honored by your attendance, illustrious representatives." The knight returned the salute.

A pair of knights pushed open the doors to the castle and Sir Grorok and one of the templars stood off to the side. Eva motioned to the castle guard who then moved to the sides before she then took up a position near the orc and templar. Ahh, I could wield power like that, once.

"If anyone still has weapons on them, Grorok and the church have agreed to hold onto them for now. No weapons in the palace." Eva announced.

Close to her, the head knight gave his own affirmation of the plan by simply making no move to interfere. To everyone's surprise, Hanabi had to step forward with a sigh. The outlander evidently having tried to bring a safety dagger along before thinking better of it.

"Why'd you even need a dagger?" Sophie asked.

"Never know when you might need it." Hanabi nonchalantly shrugged.

"But you?" The elf asked incredulously.

"Never know when one of you guys might need it?"

A few of the others chuckled.

"Anyone else?" Eva tried to regain control.

After a few quiet glances were traded amongst everyone else, a collective shake of the head seemed to defuse the situation.

"Alright. Chin up everyone. We've got a ball to attend." Eva declared.

Chin up indeed. Lucinia mumbled to herself.

The so-called Palace of Kings was just like it was yesterday save for the abundance of knights and orderlies also on duty today. Where the halls were felt almost oppressively quiet, they were now filled with a lively sense of chatter. What missing spaces there were between the walls were now filled with more decorations. From small banners to sigils and even what Lucinia assumed were the standards held by the various noble houses of Carrador. If she had to pick a category to describe the shapes she could mostly see, it would be nature based. Grass, trees, some mamalia, others more fantastical and a lot of deer or deer inspired noble sigils. It's alright, doesn't hold a candle to the Imperial Palace though.

Her home, and that of Traxia's rival in Lucuria were much more militaristic. Sharp beaked birds, eagles, swords, shields, other arms and the different combinations of such represented her. She knew of Melton and their more animalistic focus. Lions, crows, tigers, and other such creatures that hunt or scavenge. Arteria meanwhile, carried banners separated between the modern and the old. Traditional simple ones with only patterns or singular objects, or more modern ones with fancier outlines, buildings, and decadent displays of wealth in one way or another.

The symbols of a nation, huh? Of how they project themselves, how they wield their power. She mused, I could probably propose this as an academic paper. Would probably get accepted too. She clicked her tongue and followed the others, helping Hanabi to roll Aryana along until they came to a stop outside a set of grand doors from which soft orchestral sounds seemed to flow from.

Flanking the doors, a plethora of Carradorian knights and soldiers stood guard alongside a smaller reception area of sorts where a handful of anxious courtiers stood around. A few attendants also flitted in and around the crowd, serving drinks and hors d'oeuvres to the guests. Though the arrival of the large saint filled and adventuring party stole the gathered crowd's attention for a few moments. Hushed whispers and speculation filled the entry way though none directly confronted or stepped up to confront the party.

Before they could enter however, Eva abruptly turned and halted the party, turning to address them. As they had established before, Sophie and Sophia quickly then moved to flank Aryana. Hanabi and Lucinia handing the girl over to them, much to the redhead's amusement at regaining her two identical escorts.

"Alright everyone, relax a little, just think of this as a less rowdy party, hmm? Don't get worried if the stewards call out your names, it's just like a roll call." Eva directed the last part towards the saints.

The outlanders snickered amongst themselves but Suzuki motioned for her teacher to go on.

"If anything comes up, just let me know and I'll sort them out." Eva growled.

No half measures it seems. Though doubtless this will go smoothly for us. Lucinia snuck a glance towards the Kastiane girls. Certainly not for them. Hells, if yesterday was any indicator, the response of the nobility is going to be anything but pleasant.

Her concentration was disrupted by Hanabi giving her ribs a gentle shove, startling her.

"Guh?" Lucinia inadvertently squeaked.

"Pff." Hanabi fought a snort, "Was going to say, just come to me if anyone gives you grief, yeah?"

Lucinia half nodded, still too surprised to regain her composure.

Another group of knights guarded the main doors. After trading some whispered words that the others could not hear, Eva and them seemed to reach an agreement as the knights stood aside and began organizing themselves to flank the entryway.

Seeing this commotion, a few more senior looking attendants quickly scurried over to the doorway, clearly intending to ensure the correct following of protocol. Whatever that might be. They wordlessly stopped Eva in her tracks before giving the noble a small bow and politely directing the nearby knights with ceremonial intent. One even slipped through a side door to presumably inform the court's steward with the arrival of Eva's party. The same attendant slipped back out and held up a small finger to tell Eva to wait.

Only when a different attendant poked their head out of the side door with a curt nod, did the procession resume moving again.

Lucinia clenched up the moment the doors swung open, exposing the chattering of nobles and the sounds of a ball to the world outside. The same fright she often felt when she had to present herself at the Imperial Palace's events. Though she considered herself at the very least an adept at handling herself in court, it didn't make the initial nervousness she always felt any more bearable. Hells, and at a hostile court at that.

Then it began.

"Introducing, for the king's court, Evaline Rosengart of House Rosengart!" The steward within cried out.

The conversations of the nobility grew abruptly silent for a split second before resuming once more. Though Lucinia knew their previous topics had disappeared without a trace, replaced by the newest delight that had simply strolled into their domain.

Eva walked through, confident and composed, the girl clearly having had some practice beforehand on what she planned to do, much to Lucinia's irritation at being denied such luxury.

Then were the saints. The first to step through being their leader, the poised and nervous Suzuki.

"Introducing, for the king's court, Suzuki…" The steward paused momentarily before Eva whispered in his ear and he promptly continued, "Watanabe. Captain of the Astral Church's saints, outlander, and honored guest of Carrador!"

If anyone hadn't been paying attention or uncaring before, their eyes were now firmly settled upon the newcomers. Hells.

Then the saints went in, one after another. Then the Inquisitors, though they received no introduction. Only a hushed silence as the black robed figures simply strolled in after a brief "Representatives of the Astral Church" was given.

"Introducing, for the king's court, Sophie Kastiane… of House Kastiane." The steward almost reluctantly announced.

Where the previous entrants were welcomed with eager murmurings and curiosity and amusement. This time, there were frowns and hushed mutterings. Lucinia could see that even though Sophie was trying to remain unfazed, the half elf noticeably slouched a little. Almost like she was trying to make herself less visible.

She supposed, however, that Eva and Mila had a reason for depressing the court. For she mustered what dignity and courage she could muster before being the next person to step forwards, one step after another.

Her eyes met the stewards and she could see the obvious disdain in his eyes. Well that bodes well, she almost scoffed out loud.

"Introducing, for the king's court, Lady Lucinia Gaius Trax, former princess of Traxia." The man dryly announced.

Well that's shit. She held her tongue. If the court wasn't disappointed before, they were now.

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