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All Roles Currently Casting For

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All parts must be able to do a semblance of an English (British) accent. Nothing difficult.

Must be available all-day March 27th and available to rehearse lines 4 days a week throughout Feb, and in person at least once a week in March up until the party.

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Duke Charles Visconti – appears to be late sixties/early seventies, grey/white hair, tall frame, broad shoulders, slim figure

Admiral Manuele Visconti – appears to be late forties/early fifties, peppered hair, handsome, taller than average but not too tall, slim figure.

Albert Lancaster – appears to be mid/early twenties, dark hark, slim, average height

Izem – deep beautiful dark skin, average height, sharp facial features

Varick – tall, handsome, early to mid-thirties, dirty blonde hair, athletic.

Anna Lancaster – appears to be late twenties, medium dark hair, slim,

Rosia – appears to be late twenties/early thirties, looks mixed, medium light brown complexion, freckles (can be added), average height

 

Five suitors (speaking parts are in bold, must be willing to learn a dance)

1st (non verbal) Duke (in Spain) – hazel eyes, brown hair slicked back

3rd Marquis of Scars (Captain) – fake scars painted on his neck, exceptionally deep voice

5th Prince Qadim – appears to be of Arabic/middle eastern/ or mixed descent (tan brown skin), handsome, tall

7th Sir Taylor – above average height, blonde hair, brown eyes, athletic (he's a knight), appears to be in his thirties

8th Duke Benjamin Van Weiran (Eric Windsor) – appears early – mid-thirties, deep dark hair, blue eyes, tall, deep voice (think Henry Cavill), very chiseled handsome features

Extras

(5) (non-Speaking) Line Dancer/Bachelorettes– looking for five actresses of average height, different shapes, and backgrounds, appear to be in the twenties.

(2) Male Announcer - Any height, any weight,

 

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Audition Video Instructions

With your cell phone, please record yourself in a well lit space. Please state your name, the role you’re interest in, and the following monologue in your best English (British) accent.

Once the recording is completed, please upload to YouTube as a private, invite only, video or other platform of your choice and send the link via the form the below. You will receive a confirmation of receipt within 24 hours.

Upload your headshots or an acting CV using the link in the application below. Thank you!

 

“Dearest Cecilia, has another already captured your heart? Do you wish to continue this façade in order to maintain your image, or can we finally be honest with one another? We don’t need love, my lady, for it is overrated. Marriage is a strategic partnership and you should do well to choose wisely. I’ve done all that you’ve asked and expect to be rewarded.”​​​​​​

Apply here

Below is the story line for which we will follow. A script will be provided in the official audition if you are invited for the second round! Good luck!

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LXI

Briellyn (Cecilia)

Two days later...

I'VE ONLY ever anticipated one other night of dancing in all my life. The night I snuck out with Danny, and Eric showed up; ooh what a night. My dear papa has taken it upon himself to show me a few of the line dances, and I have practiced them with Albert. My dress couldn't be more perfect, lined in gold, the rich shade of red will surely turn heads. And thanks to Charles, Albert and I will be the only two in that color.

Upon arriving back to the country though, we discovered that the necklace that had come with me to the past was now missing. When Varick searched through Rosia’s last few memories, he’d noticed magical tampering, which doesn’t help us. Any of us. It either means Barbanon is definitely onto us, or Roderick stole the necklace himself. Now we will never know. He quickly put her mind at ease of course, not wishing to cause her concern.

Varick has done me the service of willing Anna's mind another direction, again, her sinful thoughts drawing concern for her future. And Justin's. There have been moments I've thought that perhaps I'm dabbling too much, but then she opens her mouth. She's very excited about the party as well, as are her parents.

Kalil on the other hand, hasn't been himself since Varick tampered with his thoughts, which I'm still upset with him about. Albert and I have just finished our last rehearsal on dancing pleasantries when Varick enters the main hall of Charles' mansion.

“Good night my lady, last rehearsal in the morning,” Albert kisses the back of my hand and smirks, before pivoting for the exit.

Varick stares at me, entertained by Albert's demeanor around me. Once the door shuts, he speaks candidly, “You could at least try not to further lure the poor boy into your charming web." I narrow my eyes at him, thinking of how to address the Kalil situation. He then adds, “Still in a peevish mindset I see.”

“You know I hate that word, Varick. It's so... archaic,” I roll my eyes, pretending to assess my cuticles and fingernails to avoid eye contact.

He crosses his arms, smirking, “For you perhaps—”

I clear my throat, “Varick, why is Kalil really still here. His brother is still missing and every time I look at him, it's like a piece of him isn't there. He wasn't like this in my time.” I stare away from Varick, uneasy of the probabilities behind Jonas' disappearance.

“I've explained to you why. No plea from you is going to change that. My mission is you and—-“

“Yeah, yeah, I must be protected at all costs based on a prophecy that wasn't taken seriously because Dionne isn't declared the official Oracle of Empyria. I heard that part. But I know there's more to it that you refuse to tell me. There are more details I need you to clue me in on.”

He stares indignantly, “Indeed, but something tells me,” he gently takes my chin between his fingertips, turns my face toward, “You'll be quite okay.” I jerk my face away from his light grip, reflecting on all my encounters with Kalil. “Kalil is stronger than you think he is. And you are impossibly persistent. Once you are successful in your mission, he will be free to pursue anything he pleases.”

His words ping the longest guilt string I have. I attempt to change the subject, thinking of a way to allow Kalil to pursue his brother in a way that I'm not caught powerless. “You know,” I start, “when you healed me, my Empyrean sight returned, but my other powers did not. Why is that?”

“I've told you, your mind is different than healing your body,” he retorts plainly.

“So can't you just... go into my mind, like Eric did. He taught me how to go into my oasis. And last time he went in, he unlocked something inside of me.” I try not to whine about it.

Varick pivots towards me with a sweet grin on his face, “Yes, and it's because of that fact that I wouldn't dare venture. Sharing your oasis is considered an intimacy, I would never disrespect Royce in such a manner.”

“Guess that only applies to full-Empyreans, his brother didn't seem to know such a boundary,” I snort, irritated about this roadblock.

He subtly shakes his head, “Wait, you mean Royce's brother? Eliam?”

“Oh right,” I shrug, “I'd forgotten his Empyrean name. Now that Empyrean doesn't seem to play by any of the rules the rest of you do. Kidnapping, diarrhea of the mouth, thou shall not covet thy brothers—"

“He's the one who took you!? Eliam is this Roderick that you've been referring to? By God, this is worse than I thought, princess,” he hesitates after his last word.

“Hardly a princess, didn't realize we'd graduated to pet names. And-and why is this such bad news?” I ask sarcastically then mumble, “It's not like he changes much over the next two hundred years, apparently.”

Varick glances at me but doesn't make eye contact like he usually does. In fact, he proceeds to step further away, speaking in the opposite direction, “Eliam, Royce, and I were all close at one point. We've fought many battles together. But things weren't exactly fantastic between them after awhile.”

“I find that a little hard to believe,” I cross my arms as I recall the two laughing together in our underwater resort, “It seemed up until Eric realized what Roderick had done, he'd be willing to forgive him for anything.”

Varick hastily pivots towards me, deep in concerning thought. “And tell me Briellyn, what family doesn't have those quarrels that they aren't willing to look past, to perhaps their own peril?”

It's the first time since I landed in the 18th century that I'd thought of my father. The man tried to call me how many times before his untimely death? How many times had I wanted to call him? To just say the words, I forgive you and I love you. I didn't want to feel the hurt or pain that would come with a rather undesirable response. I avoided it at all costs. Varick catches my sights, so I turn away to huff, “Family drama,” I reply nonchalantly, “We all have it.”

“Yes, but brothers fighting over a woman? That's not exactly an ideal situation,” he starts as I roll my eyes, “I don't know if you know this or not, Brie, but Empyreans are created in pairs.”

“I'm aware,” I reply flatly, recalling Eric's brief description and the thought that during his time on Earth another one could have been created and perhaps, waiting for his return.

“And you know that the 'soulmate effect' doesn't occur until both mates are at least twenty-seven?”

I frown, briefly thinking it over, “So...” I lock eyes with Varick, “That's why Kalil didn't think I was the one when we'd first met.” I hesitate again, “I mean, perhaps that's presumptuous of me but... it would make sense. He approached me just shy of my twenty-seventh birthday.”

“I can neither confirm nor deny that it could've been the reason.”

“Tell me something Varick, these tidbits are rather frustrating,” I plead, brow furrowed.

His single chuckle accompanied with a smug twist of his lips, “When the moon is at its highest peak, even the smartest can't think. Old friends become foes, brothers will throw blows, and the streets will runneth with ink.”

“What,” I manage, mildly hypnotized by the rhyme.

“Worldly titles with smiles, as she walks down the aisle, blood will be lost, emotions a cost, to be born will be worth the while.”

I've had it. “Enough, Varick! Enough with the Empyrean riddles and bullshit. You know I don't know what any of it means! I don't even know why I chose to talk to you about this,” I storm off, frustrated for the last time.

As I reach for the door to finally leave his presence, he shouts, “I didn't know what it meant before either!” He then mutters something under his breath.

I huff, leaving him to his thoughts.

 

LXII

 

Albert

THE NIGHT falls quickly, the guests already starting to arrive. Cecilia and I are dressed in our new threads for the second time, anxiety is high. Duke Van Wieran's home is gorgeous, the evening has been outlined for us. I peek out the nearest window as another carriage arrives. Two women depart. Undoubtedly the sisters from the night Cecilia and Anna were kidnapped.

I slide away from the window to knock on the nearby door. “Cecilia?” I call out, mildly concerned for her. She seemed more edgy last evening, and I haven't seen her all day. I'm excited to see how our dress is supposed to coordinate, the deep red will look ravishing on her.

The door opens slowly, an inviting voice calls to me, “Albert, if you give me just one... more... moment... ah! I think that's good, Rosia.” I cautiously step into the bedroom, from behind the partition, Rosia's dress pokes out from the left side. Cecilia's dress peeks out from the opposite side. I stare at the bottom hem of her gown, excited to see her. When she steps from behind the partition though, the sight of her takes my breath away.

Everything about her is only made more exquisite by the intricacies of the gown, I didn't think that was possible. Her curly hair in an eloquent, almost messy, updo; some of the curls having purposely escaped the pins to fall around her face. The necklace that captures the eye and invites a peek at her lovely décolletage. The boned waist of her dress further accentuates her curvy figure, with a pop of gold down the middle and the deep red at the sides. Rosia had decided to use the rare red lipstick upon her plump lips, drawing the eyes back to her lovely face. Her cheeks raise as she showcases her dimples, those lips curled into that sweet smile. “It's better if you say something, Albert,” she states kindly, a laugh in her tone. “Do you think they'll approve?”

I grin, “They don't deserve to be in your presence, you're a Goddess.” I approach her, reaching for her hand to place a mask in her grasp. “But yes, they'll definitely approve. I'm certain we will be requested to join the celebration soon once all guests have arrived.”

She glances at Rosia then curtsies, “I can finish up from here, Rosia. Go join the festivities. Have a few drinks, enjoy the atmosphere. Be Cinderella.”

Rosia exits the suite, I glance at Cecilia, “Cinderella?” I query. “Everyone deserves to feel like a princess for at least one day,” she replies, grinning.

Not sure I understand the reference to the name, but I gingerly nod in response as if I did. I agree with the chance at royalty, even for just a moment.

“Well, let's head back to my room, don our masks and wait for your father to retrieve us. If, that's okay with you,” I gesture at the door leading back to my room. “We can see all the arriving guests from there. We can guess their names.” That sounded more juvenile out loud.

She giggles, shaking her head, “Oh, Albert.” She loops her arm into mine, escorting me in that general direction.

We seat ourselves right next to the window as we wait, Duke after Duchess, Marquess' and Marchioness's, Princes and Princesses, even a few Kings and Queens of ally countries have come to this event. All for her. There's no other way to explain it. The Queen of England herself has come tonight. A couple steps out of the carriage and Cecilia perks up, “He looks like a Lord Alfred and her a Lady Bernadette.” Perhaps not juvenile after all. She glances at me, shrugging her eloquent shoulders, “Anything to pass the time.”

We wait a moment for them to enter the main hall. “Lord Frederick and Lady Odette!” The announcer states.

Cecilia laughs, “So close!”

“You're pretty good at this,” I praise, “That's the closest I've ever seen anyone guess. Unless of course, they cheated and knew who they were.”

“I wasn't even really trying,” she admits, “But this is kind of fun.” We take turns guessing the next three carriages that arrive, laughing like we hadn't a care in the world. It appears one last carriage arrives, a lonely gentleman departing. “It's appears your suitor has arrived,” I joke.

She lays her head to the side, staring, “Well if that's the case, I will guess his name is Eric and hope magic will take care of the rest.”

“You really miss him, don't you?”

She lays back on the seat, a sigh escaping her, “Miss is an understatement. Every moment we are apart, I feel less whole. But something inside me maintains the faith, I know he'll find me.” She sits forward before whispering, “They can't very well force me to marry someone else, can they?”

A knock at the door captures our attention. It's Lord Manuele. I lean forward to whisper back before we stand, “Not if your father has anything to do with it.”

She smiles, thankful for the comment. Manuele approaches, gushing over her beauty, “I had no doubts, but my dear you are stunning. The gentlemen here this evening will have trouble keeping their wives.”

We all laugh at the comment as he kisses her cheeks. He then turns to me to firmly shake my hand, “However, I think they may be a little intimidated by your escort.” Grateful for his kind words, I am exceedingly nervous. “The last guest has arrived, they are ready for you two to make your grand entrance. I've also brought you both a skewer,” he waves a server into the suite, “You won't have any time for food for another hour. The courting period begins the moment you reach the base of the stairs, just like we practiced.”

Cecilia doesn't hesitate to reach for the duck skewer. “Don't mind if I do, I'm starving.”

Both Lord Manuele and I stare at her in fascination. She makes quick work of the two skewers as we stare in awe. “What?” She smiles, “I needed to be sure I fit into this corset, I haven't eaten all day just to be sure of it! I can't very well pass out during the courting though, that'd be embarrassing.”

“Indeed it would,” Lord Manuele chuckles as I take a couple for myself. The music begins, inviting us to our debut. Cecilia stands in front of me, looks me up and down, fixes my necktie before wiping a crumb from my lip. Lord Manuele hands us both a mint leaf. Cecilia takes an audible deep breath, rests her hand on my forearm, before the soft candle lights of the main hall finally embrace us, Lord Manuele leading the way.

LXIII

Briellyn (Cecilia)

THE ROOM comes to a still, like some eighteenth century painting I should be admiring in an art studio. The soft lighting adds an amber tone to everyone's masked faces as the entire room gazes at us. The string quartet begins to play as we slowly walk down the stairs. It has the feel of a debutante ball, but I'm way too old. And we're about to show them the difference. Like nothing they've ever seen.

Albert and I reach the base of the stairs as the crowd encases us in a circle, faces in the rooms to either side of us. Charles may not approve of what's about to happen, but it's been nice to have a bit secrecy. The water music begins as our courting starts. About a minute into the song, Manuele gives the signal to the quartet, who switch to a string rendition of 'Por Una Cabeza' from the movie Scent of a Woman, or rather one of the many movies that had it. The last few days in London, I collaborated with the quartet to get them on board with the outlandish request. They were more than happy to oblige and talented enough to nail it after only hearing me hum it. Albert and I then worked quite a few hours to choreograph the piece, it was easy for me to teach him because it was one of the fondest memories I had of my father sober. There was a point he took dance lessons to keep his mind off the booze, to the point we'd learned a few together. I had to modify it slightly to accommodate the fullness of my gown and add a slit to the front of the dress. Perhaps it was a bit risky to do, all things considered, but I didn't care. It wasn't going to alter history.

I stand about eight feet from him then saunter my way over in coordination with the strings. He then glances over his right shoulder as I approach him from the same side, placing my left hand to his shoulder to swiftly find my place. We begin our tango, twisting my body to accentuate the moves with the dress. First to my right, then the left before he spins me around. The crowd coos in awe. He then places my hands on to his shoulders while resting his at the small of my back as he guides me backwards. After a few steps, I return the favor, guiding him the opposite direction. He then spins me out, both of us reaching out towards our side of the crowd, before spinning me multiple times. The rich deep sounds of the song fall in, making the crowd gasp as we hold each other, dipping in either direction before more waltzing. It is truly a splendor for the two minutes that it lasts. At one point, I catch a glimpse of Charles, whose expression is absolutely priceless. A mixture of delight and concern all swirled in.

When we are done, the water music returns, allowing us to finish the 'traditional' dance we'd started, inviting others to join us. There is only time for the top eight suitors, which have already been chosen for me by my father, Manuele. The others will have to wait until the golden hour is over.

My first suitor isn't much taller than me, his brown hair neatly slicked back, with a Navy mask covering his face that accentuated his hazel eyes. Apparently he's a Duke in Spain, appointed by the King.

Then the third courter stands out to me, the scar on his neck threatens to reveal itself as his scarf doesn't quite cover it. His brooding demeanor is almost frightening, his deep voice adding to his shock appeal. He proclaims himself a Captain in the Royal Navy, surely one of Manuele's counterparts.

The fifth paramour is one I've come to know well over the past week. Prince Qadim.

“Are you having fun, my future Queen?” he mutters from behind. During the first half of the dance, I don't see the gentlemen as my back is to them until the midway point, making it the perfect time for them to introduce themselves. And in that ninety seconds, I already knew how much I didn't much care for any of them.

“This future Queen is in love with someone else,” I reply snarky through my screwed on smile.

“We don't need love, my lady. Love is overrated. Marriage is a strategic partnership; you just need to make each other better. Patience and tolerance is a necessity, love is not,” the seriousness in his tone is rather off-putting, perhaps this is part of the conditioning his advisor pushes onto him. I almost feel bad for him. Almost. I will rid him of his bad influence soon enough. He may not believe in love, but hatred is still a thing.

The next gentleman is another unremarkable one, but thankfully the one after him is none other than Sir Taylor, the knight who rescued me from that awkward conversation amongst the fellow nobles a few days ago. “Fancy seeing you here, my lady,” his smooth voice trumps the ambient voices, he looks dashing in his attire.

“I wondered when you'd come save me from the dragons,” I tease.

“And yet again, you appeared to be handling the beasts quite effortlessly,” he commends, making me giggle at the remark. “And after me, only one left. I'm fortunate to have made your top eight.”

“Yes, only one more then I will be relieved of duty. At least for a while. I'm grateful to have had at least one suitor who, other than Albert, was level-headed.”

He smiles once we face each other, “The pleasure is mine, my lady.” We bow to one another.

And now, the final dance, the announcer declares. Thank goodness, I'm starving. The last waltz begins, I dread it because it's supposed to be the most 'invasive'. And by that I mean, there's more touching involved during the course of this dance as it's reserved for the most prospective match. At least that's what Manuele and Charles explained to me. Similar to the previous gentlemen though, I won't see his face for the first ninety seconds.

Almost fifteen seconds into the dance, he hasn't said anything. “A bit of stage fright, darling?” I tease, hoping to get him to speak up.

“Trying to figure out if I'm still jealous of that dance with the young Albert, or if you're rendition of the dance from Scent of a Woman is accurate, or was it True Lies?” the man states, his sensual voice could only belong to one of two men I've come to know. And the only ones who could know that movie. I want to turn around to see his eyes, could it be? “Don't turn around just yet, you'll make it obvious that I've won this courtship.”

My heart flutters at the thought. Eric? He approaches me close behind as the dance implies, the moment our bodies touch I know. “Eric,” breathless at the thought we'd finally found each other.

“In about two hundred years perhaps, but these people know me as Benjamin, The Duke Van Wieran.” A smile finds its way to my lips, impossible to prevent as the illumination in my eyes returns. He finally spins me around to revel in the sight of his bright blue eyes, greeting me like the first time he'd ever laid eyes on me. “I swear you become more exquisite each day.”

“Where have you been? I thought I've felt your presence on multiple occasions, including tonight, but every time it happened you were nowhere in sight.”

“I think 'sight' would be the keyword there, Briellyn. I would never leave you for too long.”

I swoon at the sound of my real name coming from his lips. The mask covers just enough of his face, but his jawline, the shape of his lips, his rich dark hair and striking blue eyes leaves just enough; I want to fall into everything that is him and drown in his delicious touch, in his love.

“My sentiments exactly,” he pulls me a little closer, the subtle possessiveness about it immediately turns me on. “I can't believe you did the tango with Albert, but more impressed that you were able to teach the quartet the song, that's not an easy feat. Then again, you're an amazing woman that knows no boundaries. Still, these few weeks have been torture without you. I despised just watching.”

“Is that why you wouldn't see me, at your estate about the party?”

“Believe it or not my love, there really is two of me in this century.”

“So then, do you remember being asked to meet me? Is history repeating itself ?”

“Excellent question, but we have plenty of time to discuss these things, I’d love to continue drowning myself in your touch. It’s so elating I almost can’t breathe.”

I blush, I want to kiss him. The music stops but I don't want to let go. “I'll find you later, don't keep your fans waiting for too long.” We bow to one another, our hands still locked.

I unwillingly release my grasp, then search the crowd for Manuele. Did he know this whole time?

LXIV

Briellyn (Cecilia)

I MANAGE to find Manuele with haste after my last dance, the crowd being herded to the neighboring hall for dinner to leave Albert and I to catch our breath. The invitation states that we are having quail and venison for the main course, an array of vegetables and bread, with a dessert table filled with fruits, pudding and chocolate. Wine is served all around, in abundance of course.

I can't stop smiling, Albert notices my glee before lowly stating, “You must've really liked your last suitor...” His demeanor saddened by the observation.

I immediately cradle his sweet face in my hands to kiss him, then Manuele. “You knew, didn't you?” I accuse lovingly, my nose practically twitching.

“Knew what?” Manuele curiously asks, a grin growing on his face as my happiness affects him.

“The Duke Van Wieran!” I reply excitedly.

“Well, he wasn't certain he could make it initially, I received correspondence from him but a few days ago notifying me he would attend and that he would like to be considered a prospective suitor. This gave me great joy as he is of ideal age and considerable wealth, with influence greater than most kings. It'd only make sense that he be the best possible match for you,” he politely explains. He has no clue what I'm talking about.

I squint at him, shaking my head, “Yes, I agree with you.” Perhaps it's better that I don't reveal who he is to Manuele, or Charles. I know I can always confide in Albert though.

“So glad you approve, dear daughter. Please excuse me, we must take our seats prior to you all coming in for dinner. See you both in but a moment,” he grips my hands while kissing my cheek before approaching Albert's parents and Charles. Charles glances at me from the distance, smiling as the quad converses.

I turn towards Albert to whisper, “It's him,” my brows inherently raise behind the mask.

“Him who?” he queries, staring at me puzzled. I suck my teeth before smiling bigger, my excitement growing with each second thinking about it. His expression changes as his eyes grow wide, “Oh, him! Duke Van Wieran is... your Eric?! I wonder how I didn't realize it when I'd met him, he fits your description almost exactly. I mean, minus the hair.”

“The one you met is his younger version, I didn't expect you to know,” I giggle, spotting our parents going inside the other hall and that we should follow shortly. We both raise our masks. His expression fades into a more subtle sadness. I take his face in my hands, “This is great news, Albert.”

“I know,” he states plainly, “It's just… I wasn't ready to say goodbye.”

“I won't be going anywhere for awhile,” I kiss him on the cheek again, “Thank you for being on my side this entire time. You remind me of a dear friend from my time. You promised you would help me find him and here I am. Once tonight is over, the three of us will sit down and talk, but you mustn't tell your sister.”

His brow furrows, “Why?”

“Call it intuition,” I reply definitively, taking his arm then placing it over my hand, “Let's go eat something, all this dancing has me famished.”

As we situate ourselves near the door to keep an ear out for the toast by our parents that will invite us in, I whisper, “Did any of the lovely ladies you danced with stand out to you?”

He chuckles softly, “Lady Sophia still has my eye, but only because the one whom I fancy is taken.” I stare at his profile, reminding me a bit of Justin. Did I unintentionally push him away? We slide our masks back down.

“Without further ado, please show your love for this evening's most eligible,” Lord Lancaster introduces us for the second time. We step into the room together, the round tables on either side draped in white cloths, our table at the opposite end is the only one that faces the crowd. I desperately try to spot Eric amongst the masked faces as we make our way to our long table, Albert guiding the way due to the somewhat narrow walkway from the constraint of the chairs. The faces become one big masked blur, until his eyes lock onto mine as the last gentleman at the table next to ours. Thank goodness. I blush again, staring off into the crowd as the applause finally ceases and we take our seats at the head table.

The servers enter the room to begin taking plates from each guest to serve them. As I converse with Manuele and Albert, I continuously glance Eric's direction as he speaks with the woman seated across from him. The Queen, with the King next to her. At the end of the opposite table, Matteo and Anna sit across from each other. It's as if he knew my eyes were on him because he would catch mine every time. I both dreaded and anticipated this evening, but I never thought it would yield such a wonderful surprise.

Kalil is seated next to Anna, he seems to gleam at the attention he's receiving and Varick is diagonal from him. It seems all my potential suitors are on one side of the room while all Albert's potential wives are scattered about the other. The setup is interesting, perhaps three hundred or so people are in attendance. I can't imagine being in any danger. And yet, the moment the thought crosses my mind, I glance around the room. It's as if everything stops when Izem catches my gaze. For a fleeting moment, everyone that I know in the room drops their head to the table. The rest of the people continue on as if nothing’s happened. I shake my head for just a moment before everything returns to normal. Eric's concerned expression captures my sights, my horrified look giving him pause.

I smile, shaking my head to reassure him 'I'm okay'. As I do, Manuele stands to excuse himself before Charles takes the initiative to steal Manuele's seat. I grin at him as he greets me with a kiss to both cheeks, “You look beautiful, darling. Have you enjoyed the evening so far?”

“I have, Papa, thank you for everything.”

“What are your thoughts on the Duke Van Wieran, strapping fellow isn't he?” he raises his wine glass then gestures towards Eric. If only you knew. As Eric chews, flexing that panty-dropping jawline, he subtly raises his glass in return. I need to get my thoughts in order.

“Yes, he is,” is all I offer as more inappropriate thoughts enter my mind. Like finding a shadowed corner, then ripping this corset off and pulling this skirt up.

“I'm glad that he made it to this party. I had no idea he'd wish to be considered a suitor though, do you know how long he's been the center of marriage controversy?”

I furrow my brow, now glaring at Charles, “Whatever do you mean?”

“Word has it that at one point people had seen him with a woman, believed to be his wife, about a year ago. He fawned over her like no one had ever seen, which lead them to believe there was more between them. But no one had met her. Apparently, word of your beauty must have traveled far and wide for him to return for the party, then ask to be considered. He never shows interest in any of the eligible ladies. That's why I told you that you'd have to convince him yourself. When he agreed to the party without a fuss, I was surprised by his generosity. I think he's glad he agreed to it now though.”

And now come the secrets. I sigh, “Well, don't I feel extra special.”

LXV

Briellyn (Cecilia)

AFTER DINNER, a dessert table of fruit, cheese, and a separate smaller one for chocolate is put on full display. Must've cost a fortune in this time because the chocolate is actually sweet and beautifully decorated. Now that I know Eric paid for it, I'm all the more flattered.

The upbeat music starts again, with the expectation that Albert and I return to the dance floor to allow other suitors and ladies an opportunity to, at the very least, dance with him and I and introduce themselves. The line dancing allows the men to rotate in without prolonging the introductions, the way the first bunch had. Admittedly, this part was a lot of fun during practice. We all line up accordingly, smiling as I look at the sea of faces anticipating the dance. When I glance across from my position to see the first gentleman I'll dance with, my grin quickly disappears. Izem.

I slyly search around the room for Eric, not sure if he's aware yet that Izem is Barbanon. Him and I have a lot to discuss, including this supposed woman he was with. The interlude ends, indicating we greet each other with a bow or curtsy. “Are you having a good time, my lady?” his voice bellows, as the voices and music in the background seem to fade out.

“It's lovely,” I sneer.

“His royal highness really admires you,” he states matter-of-fact.

“Why are you even dancing as a suitor? Are you really here as his representative, or do you have more devious plans?” my poor attempt to maintain my poise with him falters under pressure.

His evil smirk is yet another expression I've seen before, further solidifying my suspicions. “You should probably stay away from the Prince.”

I tilt my head to the side in surprise, speechless at his remark. I thought he would want me to get closer to the Prince, make it easier to sink his claws into me. He continues, “You're not really his type. He only fancies you because you don't fawn over him the way other women do. Men only want what they can't have.”

Ugh, what an asshole! There's no way this isn't Barbanon, hateful bastard. His subtle grin after being so cold sends a chill through me. If he wants to talk shit, then shit-talking is what we'll do, “Well, thou shall not covet thy neighbor's wife, sounds like you're jealous of the Prince and trying to take for yourself.”

“I will do well to remember that. Although, you aren't married to him, nor do I think you will be. It seems another has caught your eye, so perhaps I'll pass along your message.”

“And if you would keep your eyes to yourself, perhaps we would both be in a better place. You won't last long at the rate you're going.”

“The Prince is a spoiled man, but he is not stupid. He will know before the night is over that you've chosen another. He's a warlord, he will not be pleased.”

“Don't be so medieval, there will be no fighting. Least not this evening. And if you don't tell him, I won't.”

He glares, “Why wouldn't I tell him?” he laughs, “Not that it would matter, I'm certain he knows already. Hence, why I'm here with you now.”

“So, you are his pet.”

“Mind your manners, ma'am, I am no man's creature,” he states, amused.

“Why would a warlord need an advisor, what sense does that make? Unless of course, you fancy him in a different way?”

It's hard to make out the tell of his expression, but I don't think there is one. Then the moment he comes closer during the dance, he states coldly, “I'm here to advise on who not-to-kill. Surely, you've figured that out by now?”

I frown, irritated by the idle threat. “Well, I'm certain I have more influence on him than you do based on our previous conversation, so be careful because I might just replace you.”

“Consider yourself warned,” he states, stepping back once more before clapping his hands only once as everyone that I know personally drops to the ground. The guests who are strangers to me continue on, just as they did briefly before dinner. He smirks in his frozen stance.

My anger starts to build, “This isn't real. And I'm not afraid of you. Why don't you just grow a pair and come after me, like I know you want to? You've haunted me my whole life. I have nothing left to lose.”

“So, you think...” the entire room cuts to dark for a fleeting moment, before the lit candles return with everyone standing again, Izem is gone and the group dancing in interlude.

LXVI

Briellyn (Cecilia)

ALBERT QUICKLY reaches my side to ask, “What’d you think of the last lady, think she was worth a second look? She said some pretty naughty things.” He blushes, his lighthearted cackle breaks me from my trance.

I smile as if nothing happened, “Oh, was she? Perhaps that’s not someone you should entertain then.” My exasperated exhale gives him pause.

“Are you alright, my lady? I'd thought you'd be more excited now that you've found your true love again. But you seem... sad.”

I lock eyes with him before taking a deep breath, “Too much wine and excitement, I suppose. I'm fine, Albert. I promise.” Who am I to ruin his evening? Not while Eric is so close that I can discuss all that’s happened directly with him. Is it awful that I want this night to end sooner than later after all the effort and money put into it?

Charles and Manuel approach Albert and I. Charles asks, “Have you both had a pleasant evening?”

Albert bows, as I curtsy, in acknowledgement of his statement. “We greatly appreciate the Duke Van Wieran's generosity with tonight's festivities,” I state, rising from my stance as Eric approaches us.

Manuel forces a smile as he turns toward Albert, “Would you join me please, Albert? There's something I'd like to discuss with you.”

“Certainly,” Albert walks off with Manuel as Charles steps closer toward me, Eric idling close by.

The third gentleman, whom I danced with earlier that had the noticeable scars near his neck, approaches. First acknowledging Charles with a tap to his shoulder then a firm grip of his hand. They exchange a few inaudible words as I stare at Eric, blushing. He seems to move in slow motion as the rest of the room blurs quickly, I lose myself in his eyes and his subtle smile before I hear my name once more. The gentleman eyes Eric before taking my hand into his to kiss the back of it, “Thank you for the lovely evening, my lady. I look forward to your decision.” I nod in acknowledgment as he hurries off.

“Strange fellow, isn't he?” Charles starts, eyeing the man as he disappears through the crowd, “Manuel was reluctant to include him, but a man of his caliber shouldn’t be overlooked.” I smile in gest, how old fashioned these times truly are. “But you seem to have made a very...” he coughs, “good choice...” he coughs again, leaning on me as I take his arm in concern. His face starts to turn red as I mouth the word 'water' to Eric while tending to Charles. Eric quickly signals for a cup, but Charles' coughing worsens before he falls toward me, my arms wrapped around him in an attempt to hold him up.

“Papa!” I cry out, my knees giving way as I push to lay him on the ground. Eric rushes over to assist me as Manuel and Albert notice the commotion surrounding us. Eric carefully lays his head on the floor as I analyze him, he stiffens up. “I need Varick!” I belt out, hoping someone would know to whom I referred. I reach for his necktie to loosen it, fearful he's unable to breathe. His eyes tell me a different story, like he's going into cardiac arrest.

Varick and Manuele both make their way through the crowd before kneeling next to us. “What happened?” Manuele prompts, but his words slow down as the room blurs.

I start, “He started coughing and... I-I-I can't breathe.” Before I know it, I collapse forward onto Charles before blacking out. Only the screams and voices seem to make it through.

***

Tanith

The Next Morning...

Outsmarting Barbanon has proven to be more difficult than I'd originally planned. Showing up in plain sight would only anger him. I needed to be stealth, untraceable. Men are weak, feeble. They break in such a manner that I'm uncertain what he even wants with them. Jonas was an exception. Given his brother's ability to wield such power in his veins, there was absolutely no reason that Jonas wouldn't be able to as well. He and the Queeberak are now one and there is no way to separate them. I'm uncertain of what I expected, but I mistakenly assumed that somehow his appearance would remain intact. Damn was I wrong.

Fusing Jonas and the Shadow together seemed simple enough, but after a few days his skin started to dull and began to peel off. His speech became difficult as his lips loosened. It isn't pretty.

I haven't returned to the castle in awhile, but it isn't abnormal that I'd be on the hunt for months. If Barbanon really needs me, he'd appear in front of me at any time. I doubt he will trace the fever to me, thanks to this idiot Eartl. How holding someone's lover hostage can make them do such terrible things. The Lord of Scars made his way to our rendezvous point in the woods and I transported him and I back to his coastal home. I stare at the broken man struggling to keep it together, “Have you done what I require?” We continue our slow pace to the front of his home.

He doesn't make eye contact with me as he replies, “Yes.”

“All of them?” I prompt, determined to hear the whole truth.

“Only the Duke and his granddaughter,” he states sadly, his sights dropping toward the ground.

I cease my trek to stare at him, “You were supposed to kill the entire bloodline!”

“Yes,” he continues, finally catching my eyes, “But there was no way to do so given the arrangement. The two that you stated most vital, I accomplished. That was the deal!”

“Well, I've changed my mind. I guess your lover won't survive this exchange. Pity,” I glance at the sky in disappointment as he immediately drops to his knees to beg.

“Please! It wasn't even his fault, take my life instead. I can't bear the thought of having those two lives over my head as it is.” Pathetic. My expression changes to joy at his offer. This should be fun. I whistle loudly, queuing the stable girl to bring out a horse with a bound man tossed over it.

I caress her plump, dirty little cheek before having her run along. Taking the bound man by the back of his pants, I throw him off the horse at the Earl's feet, cutting him from his restraints. “It seems your lover has traded his life for yours, he's come up short.”

The men embrace. How cute, I roll my eyes. I grab the other man by the collar before pulling him back towards me, forcing him on his knees, “You're used to this position, right? Stay right there. I want you to watch.” The fear oozing from the man is enough to conjure the small portal I need for long enough to allow my trial to take place.

The man starts to whimper as the Earl holds his head up higher, “I'm ready,” he states. I saunter over behind him to grab a thick bush of his hair, pulling his head back further. I take out my blade to place at his throat, watching as his lover cries and begs. The Marquis holds his breath, waiting. But I’ve changed my mind. In the blink of an eye, I quickly make my way back to his lover to filet him so fast, he's still conscious and staring at the Marquis.

The Earl opens his eyes to see the curve of my blade covered in blood. I lick the warm blood, tasting the fear, “Mmmmm.”

“But you said—" he starts, dropping back to his knees, staring at his lover. The man looks down before returning his gaze to the Earl, as his chin splits in the middle and his intestines spill from their place. He falls to the ground as the Earl attempts to catch him, blood pouring all over him. He stares at the blood in horror.

I smirk devilishly at him, “Your sorrows won't last long.” I snap my fingers three times before the portal opens a little more, allowing a hoard of small reptilian like creatures through. In this world, they are the size of cats, similar to white rats but have the face of short snout alligators with longer teeth. Their scaly red skin is noticeable through the white fur that's sparsely over them. They are attracted to the warm blood, specifically that of his liver. The creatures surround the men then wait. The Lord glances at his predicament then at me, his eyes begging. He mouths the word 'please' before I order my little ones to, “Feast.” They rip through the man's flesh like butter as the screams soothe me. Unfortunately, not lasting long enough to take me from my anger.

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