"Oh, you wound me, dear brother!" she exclaimed dramatically, feigning hurt while her eyes sparkled with amusement. "I'm only trying to enjoy this momentous occasion in the best way I know how." She took another swig from her goblet and grinned widely at him over its rim. "Besides, what better way to face impending doom than with a good stiff drink?"

"Ah, but youth is nothing but a fleeting illusion, my dear brother," Dionysia responded with a sigh, her voice suddenly weary despite the wine's effects. "In this life, we are all fated to face our demise. It matters not whether that end comes early or late. Better to embrace it with open arms and make the most of what little time we have left." She took another swig from her goblet, her eyes distant for a moment before snapping back into focus. "