Thread: Attraction Is A Treacherous Game [MisterKingXSeraphina]

A surprising amount of anticipation was gathered in the pit of Kiaras belly, her nerves tight as a bow string at the thought of seeing the intriguing Baron again. When she arrived at the lunch, most of the guests were already in attendance, but she didn't see him anywhere. At the insistence of her father, she mingled with the other Lords. One Lord in particular, Malachite Dumali, was eager to steal her attention. It was no grand secret that the Queen was trying to pair her daughter with the wealthy and influential Lord, but it was also no secret that Kiara hated the man. He was forward in an unnerving and uncomfortable way, as if he didn't think he could get in trouble because of his favor with the Queen. Kiara felt physically ill anytime he attempted to touch her, and to be completely honest- he terrified her. He had an entitled sense of power in him that came out often, a power that made him think he could hurt whoever he wanted and be praised for it in the end. The man had been married twice before and Kiara had heard rumors his wives died of traumatic injuries. He also told tear jerking stories about them having accidents, but she wasnt a fool. She suspected him for each of the incidents. When the bell was chimed for everyone to take their seats, Kiara fled from Malachites side and settled in her spot to the side of her father. The Queen was not attending, for which Kiara was relieved. Seated, she glanced down the long table to find the Baron was still visibly missing. An empty seat beside a deviless alerted her and her hands clenched into fists. The moments ticked by and just as everyone calmed for lunch, he strolled in. Her eyes locked onto him immediately, taking in the fascinating choice of dress he wore to the way he so easily ignored the glares of the other guests. To the deviless he went, placing a fleeting kiss to the woman's cheek as he sat down. Kiara jumped to many conclusions immediately and a flash of jealousy roar to life in her veins. It was illogical to feel such an emotion. She had met the man once and though their meeting had been unlike any other shed encountered, it didnt mean anything. Malachite caught her eye, his glare heated as he saw her eyes on the Devil. With a defiant smirk, she slowly let her attention drift to her father who had stood at the head of the table. If Malachite wanted to get upset over her attention to the Baron, he could. She didnt really care. My Lords and Ladies, honored guests...Thank you for joining us. If there are no side comments we will begin our lunch and follow with some light discussions The King was warm and welcoming, Kiaras beaming face clearly showing her affection for her father. The clearing of a throat nearby jerked her attention away and Kiaras eyes narrowed, knowing immediately whose interruption she was about to hear. Your Majesty...With all due respect...I see very little point to this entire lunch. We have seen time and again the Devil population is untrustworthy and Malachite cleared his throat, ...Unpredictable The air of arrogance pulled a fiery spirit out of Kiaras veins. Lord Dumali...If you are so inclined to share such an opinion with some of our other nobles...of which were not invited...Why is it that youre here? Kiara replied coolly, her tune bored as if shed been through the same song and dance a hundred times from the man. Truly, Im not sure how you got invited. This is a gathering for those with an interest in change. If you do not have the ability to halt your stubbornness...My suggestion is for you to leave. We would just hate to discuss such offensive material in front of your sensitive opinions. Kiara lifted the glass of wine that had been placed at her seat and took a small sip. The King was taken aback by her response, but he nodded in silence, agreeing with his daughter. Malachite was clearly trying to hold back his rage, a vein in his forehead growing thick as his irritation grew. Of course, Princess. My mistake.I shall curb my stubborn tongue Satisfied with his response, Kiara nodded and turned her attention back to the King. A few more words were shared and then the servants brought in the meal. The lunch was extravagant. Several courses were served, a soup to start, followed by a light salad, which was followed by a small stuffed hen. The hen was served with a few bites of seasonal vegetables just to give a variation for the palette. Just when Kiara thought the meal would end, another dish was brought out. Many of them were teaser plates, a few chunks of tender beef with a flavorful sauce or a meat and cheese arrangement. By the sixth course, they had finally moved onto a light and sweet frozen treat. A scoop of the creamy delight was placed in front of each guest as the King stood up to discuss some of the issues with neighboring Devil Kingdoms. The topic of Devil unpredictability was brought up again from one of the other nobles and Kiara turned her eye to them. They tensed slightly, not enjoying the attention she gave them, but otherwise they continued their opinion. It was less harsh than Malachites but the obvious tension and unease regarding Devils was still clear. I believe we all forget that it is not the Devils alone that have issues regarding violence and shifting alliances...Do we not experience the same? Kiara retorted. A murmur in the room agreed, but why did the Devils seem to be in constant unrest? Perhaps there is more occurring in their lands that we know nothing of. Issues we do nothing to help ease.Why dont we ask our guests that have knowledge of such trials Kiaras gaze fell to the Baron and his Deviless. There was a heat to her gaze that hinted at irritation and frustration, but a curiosity as well. Whatever her intrigue regarding the Baron was, she was genuinely interested in the Devil politics as well.