Post #2705538 in Till Death, a roleplay on RPG

Despite each of the ladies having their own rooms, they all congregated to Meera's room once they were let out of the infirmary, and stayed there together. Somehow that put them all at better ease. Meera's room was more like an apartment, fit for a Queen both in size and lavish comfort. The walls were painted in ornate ways, she found herself touching them and staring. They were her favorite part. Whomever had painted them had done so with great skill and warmth. Nothing like that artistry detail was ever done to Theren walls, though they did have a great deal more statues. She found she didn't miss those very much however.

"I wonder who painted all this." Meera mused aloud.

"Oh wear this one!" Estelle held up an evening dress, coloured in dark blue with lilac. It was one of Meera's more revealing pieces.

"She's busy gafawing over the walls can't you tell Estelle?" Nyme teased.

"Ha. Ha." Meera teased back deftly, dropping her attention from the art and walking over to the dress, touching the fabric as Estelle held it up. "It's very... cheeky isn't it? Do you think it too much?"

"The sash makes it classily cheeky though, besides, you're going to marry the man not negotiate a trade deal." Estelle noted, proding the dress forward. Meera gave her a look and took it.

"Good point, although really something can be said about the similarities of trade deals and marriages I think." Meera slipped out of her dress gown, they had all dressed for naps earlier, their energy having been depleted from the excitement and tiresome journey. Meera was the only one not dressed yet.

With the help her her friends her hair was pulled back in braids halfway, and with her lips and cheeks rouged they were finally ready. Lord Cromwell came at the appropriate hour to escort them to the dining hall.

Edmond blinked his eyes as he fought back some lightheadedness, he was slightly off balance from the amount of blood he had to give the man to stabilize him. Nevertheless it was worth it as the man and his daugher lasted long enough for Alora to return and treat them properly. It was thankful Edmond had been there for the man had been tested as Blue Blooded, a rare blood type. Edmond was a Grey Blooded carrier, which was compatible with any blood type. It wasn’t the first time he gave blood to another, many soldiers in the war had needed blood and he hadn’t hesitated to give as much as his limits allowed him. So when the time to chose came there wasn’t a choice to make, Edmond gave the man blood so he could live for his daughter. After he had done what he had to do he ordered Alora to look after the father and daughter before treating him, of which she was less than pleased about but followed her orders. From then on he hadn’t stopped to rest, Claramond filled him in and with less than happy words told her to get as much information as possible to hunt the rats down. No one preyed on his people without harsh consequences.

Right now he stood in his quarters dressing for the dinner for tonight. Ava was helping him as normally with Kyziko sitting on a chair watching, “I can’t believe someone would do something like that!” She shouted as he dressed. He had chosen a royal blue tunic and trousers with black boots for tonight. He had forgone the crown and royal jewels and was contemplating whether or not he wanted to have the cloak, “Believe me Kyziko, they will be punished when we find them, severely.” Edmond said the last part with a dark tone which made both women shiver. Everyone knew there were three things you never did to Edmond, threaten his kingdom, harm his people and if you wanted to live don’t even think of touching his family and friends. So they knew his response would be over kill but effective. By now Edmond had had chosen to forgo the cloak and just take a minimal and humble approach. The only accessory had on him was his Spirit Beads hanging from his belt off to the right of his waist. “Is there ever a day when you leave that in your room?” Kyziko giggled. Edmond gave her a dark but playful look, “Not even if you offered me the world would I part with these.” He said while giving the beads a pat. Ava giggled as well, “So sentimental. It’s a quality a lot of women like in a man.” She said.

Edmond snorted, “Well hopefully it makes an impression on the lady now in my life.” He said as he walked over to Kyziko and offered his hand, “Now lets get going, it wouldn’t do to keep our guest waiting.” He said. Ava smiled again despite being slightly sad, “And a gentleman at that. She doesn’t stand a chance.” She said.

In the dining room Edmond and his court stood waiting for the Theren party to arrive. The dining hall was one of a few in the castle. This one had been selected for it’s unique V shaped table. On the left side was the Belethan side while the right the Theren side.This way both sides could face each other and in any event of an insult leading to a physical confrontation the distance between sides would give them time to stop a fight before it began. To Edmonds right was his sister Kyziko who was dressed in a burgundy tunic and black trousers with matching boots. She was always more comfortable in clothing ment for men than a dress and often said while she was a girl she wasn’t that girly. To his left was Flenior, who was in his humble brown robes with his staff in hand. Claramond was to the left of Flenior and she too was dressed in a dress uniform fitting for a man but included a skirt coming down to her knees. Her long coat was draped over her shoulders in place of a cloak. To the right of Kyziko was General Katherine Noriega. Normally found in a dress suit Katherine had opted for a set of black and red ceremonial robes and cane for this dinner. Behind and to his right was Ava in her usual maid outfit, which saddened Edmond. He did not like these types of dinners as he much prefered to take his meal in one of the mid sized rooms where he, Kyziko, Claramond, Ava, Flenior and sometimes Katherine would sit and just have a jolly time eating, drinking and generally having fun. Now Ava would be on her feet working and serving rather than enjoying the meal with her friends.

Things became serious all of the sudden as they left the safety of the room, as though it had been a little sancturary for them, a sanctuary of Theren, and now they were in Beleth. Her senses were now finely tuned, and she could keenly hear her own breathing. They were supposed to have met by now. These nerves were supposed to be put at ease. She couldn't afford them. Never had she been so nervous to meet someone, but then again never had she been at anyone's mercy as she was to this man.

Meera arrived at a pair of closed doors, Estelle rearranged her hair behind her and then nodded at the servants manning them, an usher announced their arrival as the door slowly opened.

The door shuttered and Edmond turned back in time to see them open and reveal the Theren party. Edmond’s face did not falter from the warm smile he gave them but he was very surprised, Queen Meera had changed a lot since he last saw her and now she was a beautiful woman. The dress she had on was a bit revealing but somehow remained conservative. In short just the right mix of seductive and classy. Edmond waited until they came closer before bowing low with the others following suit, “You grace Queen Meera, it is a pleasure to see you once again in person.” He said before returning to his upright position, albeit with some difficulty from his light head that didn’t go unnoticed. “Forgive me for not meeting you sooner, we had some complications to take care of at the time of your arrival.” He said.

Meera and her ladies curtsied low, rising only after the King did. "Yes... I must apologize for causing those... complications." Meera could not tell if she was being reprimanded, "I did not have the heart to leave those people unattended. Nor did you grace I think." Meera realized, now that she was looking at him, he had been one of the people attending to the father and daughter. She studied his face for a moment, and smiled, "If I may, this is the Lady Estelle and Lady Nyme, they are my ladies in waiting. Over here is Lord Cromwell, the Royal Secretary and Chancellor. And Lord Numaire, he is to be the Theren Ambassador." Meera introduced the people attending the dinner with her.

Edmond smiled, “And I thank you profusely for lending aid to my people.” As he gave her a short bow of respect. He took note of the members of her party as she introduced them, “An honor to meet all of you.” He said before gesturing to his people, “These are the members of my court. My second in command and sister Kyziko Alderich, my Warmaster Claramond Friedrich, General Katherine Noriega and the Court Wizard Flenior." Kyziko gave a quick wave, “Hello,” she said with her typical enthusiasm. Claramond gave another bow, “Your grace.” She said in her accented voice. General Noriega also bowed, “I am honored with your presence my Queen.” She said. Flenior gave a bow of his head, “We are all honored with your presence Queen Meera of Theren.” He added.

Edmond also bowed his head, “And it is our sincerest hope you will feel welcomed and at home here in Beleth as if it were Theren.” He said.

For murderers, the Belethen King and his court were courtious and warm, a phenomenon which befuddled Meera, but not one she lingered on. Better to take the opportunity than to question it, overthinking their courtesy and warmth would give way to bitter thoughts. Bitter thoughts were the enemy of what she was attempting to portray.

Meera opened her mouth as if to say something but changed her mind and only smiled, looking down and curtsying again. "Your warm welcome heartens me much."

Lord Cromwell trained his eyes on Lady Claramond, looking half amused.

Edmond did not miss her hesitation and suspected something was making her uncomfortable. He quickly filed it away to ask her later on and moved on, “I’m pleased it does. If you should need anything to make you more, comfortable, please feel free to ask.” Edmond said, hoping she would open up a bit before grasping his hands together, “Now I’m sure you all have had a tiring day and would care to relax.” He moved one arm to the side to gesture towards the table, “Would you care for some refreshments?” He asked. Though Edmond’s outward appearance betrayed no emotion but sincerity and warmth, inside he was on edge all the while. Edmond was determined to end this feud, at the very least he hoped to establish a friendship if not a loving relationship. But Edmond knew he was tip toeing around inside the dragon's lair, one wrong step and the whole thing would fall apart. His only hope was to convince her that despite all that had happened, intentional or not, he indeed wanted peace if not for himself, for his people.

"Thank you." Meera said no more than this. It was perhaps Edmond's tension that also strained hers. She had to find a way to break it.

Having been invited to sit down everyone did so, Estelle and Nyme making sure to sit on either end of the their Queen. They knew their advisor's places as, well, advisors, but they felt that they could do a better job at backing up their Queen in a social situation.

Claramond did not miss Lord Cromwell training her eyes upon her with a half amused look. She in turn locked gaze with him, lips in a tight line and her eyes hard as steel as she stared him down. She would admit the man did have good qualities for a man of his station but his general personality wreaked of falsity and dishonor, something she absolutely hated. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of breaking her own code of honor just to wipe that amused look from his face.

Cromwell couldn't keep a smile creeping to his lips, try as he might. This woman was just too easy. Hard as steel and unabashed to stare him down into a puddle, were he a regular man he would shrink under a glare that fierce. He wondered if she was used to getting her way in that regard. He'd be sure to dissapoint.

"There is much of Beleth that is surprising. From the notorious General Noriega, to Warmaster Friedrich. I have never witnessed women as high ranking to the military as this. Though it is high time the world should have them." Meera sat directly accross from Edmond but addressed members of his court.

Claramond ignored Lord Cromwell’s smile and continued her steely gaze until they all became seated. Upon hearing the Queen’s surprise Claramond’s expression turned to soft with a slight smile on her face, “It is not just the military you’re grace. Women are now given free route to high ranking positions in all places. Most recently three noble woman have become the leading heads of their houses and many guilds have seen their Guildmasters appoint women as the new leadership.” Claramond explained. “Edmond has been working for some time to insure equal rights for all which, has allowed Beleth to prosper.” She added as she gestured to her king. It was not lost on everyone at the table she had not used the proper protocol when addressing her king. General Noriega nodded her head, “Indeed, Lord Edmond is indeed a rare breed of man. One to be respected and not ridiculed like most.” She added, this produced a light laugh from Meera and her ladies, as if to agree. Meera was quick to stiffle it however by taking a drink.

Edmond noticed Katherine had made a light sexist comment but it was open to interpretation enough to not warrant a correction from him. “Ok you two enough with the praise.” Edmond said humbly.

"How did you get your people to accept this new policy so quickly? Surely there was complaint and defiance, I find that if men are not continuously reminded of their superiority they are quick to anger or pout like a child." Meera asked, genuinely interested in the answer. "If you would allow me to confess, I've spent most diplomatic dinners in this manner. Dancing about the egos of this or that Lord."

Edmond smiled a bit before answering Meera’s question, “You’ll be surprised to know your grace it isn’t completely accepted. A good portion of the nobility took great offense by it but a year of profit increases for them have silenced most of them. Many still attend open court complaining and trying to have me repeal the law but their efforts are in vain.” Edmond said. “Though my own personal ideals it’s only logical. By giving women equal rights and common people protection from the nobility among other things, it gives access to an untapped labor. Though it sickens me speak of people as just tools to be used for personal benefit, it’s the only thing most of the hard headed nobles will listen to.” Edmond paused for a moment before continuing, “As for the men they have no choice other than to accept or leave for a better country. Much like there are new laws protecting commoners from the nobility, laws are in place protecting the rights of women from discrimination and violence. If a woman wishes to say no to man she can do so without fearing punishment. If she wishes to serve as a soldier, a land owner or head of a noble household, they have that right.”

Edmond’s eyes turned firm as he continued, “The ego’s of men have halted progress, which is why I‘m grateful for never having developed one. I welcome anyone, man or woman, who can stand in front of me, look me in the eye and say ‘you’re wrong’ without fear, regardless if am right or wrong. No person of any creed, race or gender should be stifled by ignorant dogma. So long as the right laws are obeyed everyone should be free express their thoughts and ideals and to chose how they live. Beleth will be a free country where everyone may find peace, happiness and freedom. This is my vision for this country, a free nation for free people. I have no doubt I will not live to see to completion, but I know I’ll be here long enough to see it’s beginning.” He said firmly.

Meera nodded in understanding, serious look reflecting Edmond's as she listened. Beleth was not a mystery to her, not entirely. But Theren sorely lacked a relationship with Beleth long before either she or Edmond were born, and so the cultures and nuances of the two countries were something lost upon one another. There was much about Beleth that she did not know, besides it's general progressive attitude, of not only its King but its people. It was interesting to hear that the transition to new policy was not all met with smiles and cheer. It made the process seem more real, rather than the second hand news of progressive victory she had come to know it as. This conversation was serving multiple ends, to paint a picture of Beleth that she could see in her mind's eye, and to fill the room of uneasiness with thoughtful conversation one could engross themselves in.

"I look forward to learning more of this." Meera noted, raising her glass to Claramond and General Noriega pointedly. She could tell that liking these particular ladies would be no challange at all.

As they spoke servants came to each chair and offered it’s occupant a fairly good sized menu. The menus was filled with a wide variety of dishes, beverages and appetizers. But when Ava passed out the last to Kyziko Edmond was the only one left without one, “Sorry Edmond, I’m afraid Alora ordered a special meal be served for you to help replace the amount of blood you gave.” She said. Edmond smiled and shook his head, “And the doctor strikes again. Should have expected that after pulling that stunt.” He said. Ava smiled and placed a hand on his shoulder, “Don’t worry, I made sure the meal fits the doctor’s bill and will be satisfactory for you.” She said. Edmond smiled and patted her hand, “Thank you Ava, I’d be lost without you.” Edmond said with friendly smile. Ava blushed slightly but managed a giggle, “Oh I’m sure you’d survive, you always find a way. Now if you’ll excuse me I have orders to take.” She said as she moved to take Kyziko’s order.

Meera's, and everybody else's eyes from her side of the table flickered to the lingering hand of the maid on the King's person. Most had the modesty to look away, except the Ambassador. This, Lady Friedrich's familiarity in addressing the King, it all had implications. Lord Cromwell cleared his throat, and nudged the Ambassador under the table, diverting his subtle attention and gawking. To which Edmond barely missed, which made Edmond wonder what the cause was.

"Amount of blood your Majesty?" Meera inquired, brow furrowing and taking the opportunity to divert attentions elsewhere as well.

He brought his attention back to Meera but before he could answer Kyziko, who had finished ordering, jumped in, “The man who you brought to the castle lost a lot of blood and would have died before Alora came back. So big brother gave the man some of his blood to keep him alive until then.” She said enthusiastically with a proud smile. Edmond smiled and shook his head at Kyziko’s enthusiasm, “The man had a rare blood type that would have made finding a donor difficult, which could have lead to his death. Since mixing blood types has a risk of death we couldn’t give him just anyone’s blood. So we gave him my blood, which is universally accepted by all blood types.” Edmond waved a hand, “A choice didn’t need to be made. I wasn’t about to let him die so I did what anyone in my position would have done.” He explained.

"Your brother supposes much of those around him doesn't he?" Meera smiled warmly at Kyziko, she could tell she had much admiration for her older brother, it was sweet. She recalled how many times she wished she had a sibling to love growing up.

Kyziko’s smile lit up the room, “Oh yes, big brother really cares for us and the people. He wouldn’t hesitate to help someone, even if they were his enemy.” She said.

That's a lie. Meera thought to herself, but listened intently to Kyziko all the same.

“Everyone here is familly in one way or another, even if we all aren't related. Like my brother often says, family is more than blood.” She added. Edmond was glad she chose to explain the relationship all of them shared, hoping it would give the Theren part some insight into way things worked here in the castle. He could tell some of their customs surprised them, even more so the way Edmond and his court interacted. The only one following protocol was Katherine but even she would slip up eventually.

"But forgive me, for I do not have a physician's knowledge of these things, but is that not a taxing thing to do to the body? Giving blood? Is your Majesty alright?" She did not hide her concern, no, this was a time to show it, even if it was slightly condemning to feel it.

Edmond smiled and waved a hand, “I appreciate your concern. Yes it is taxing on the body and can have some side effects from dizziness to loss of conscience. Most common is fatigue brought on from the loss of one’s own blood. I have experienced both in my donations to others, though I can’t say i regret it. I will be fine so no need to worry, the effects I currently feel will have passed by tomorrow.” Edmond explained.

"I trust this means that they should make a full recovery then?" Meera asked tentatively. The ladies Estelle and Nyme were also clearly interested in the answer, as they too tended to the father and daughter as best they could inside the carriage.

“Yes, Flenior and I managed stop the bleeding and stabilize them long enough for Alora to get back and treat them. They will need plenty of time to recover and some therapy but they will be fine.” Edmond said, “They will pass over to the Spirit World, but today is not that day.” Edmond’s eyes eyes narrowed and his gaze became sharp as a sword, “But I cannot say the same for those who did this to them. Once they have been located there will be severe consequences.” Edmond all but growled darkly. There was no doubt the anger projecting from Edmond was real and promised a very severe punishment.

The smiles from the ladies dropped as the mood switched sharply. Was the King's anger this quick? This severe? Meera supposed that his anger must have blown hotter than even this when he attacked Theren. They were all reminded of the mercy they were beholden to. As tempting as if was to become silent and shrink, Meera pressed on, eager to change the mood. "We are all glad to hear this, in the carriage we doubted... well we did not think..." Meera studied her glass carefully, averting her gaze, "That poor girl might have ended the day losing both of her parents..." She tread carefully, but did not keep the sadness from her statement. "I'm sure in due time you will catch those that did this." she added before trying to change the subject.

At this Edmond and Kyziko exchanged a knowing but solome look. There were quite familiar with this, Edmond had lost his parents a year ago to the conspiracy, but Kyziko had lost two sets of parents, her birth parents and her adopted parents. The two were much more familiar with the concept than they wished. Edmond, who’s expression had softened, spoke first, “Nothing can ever replace a mother or father. Rest assured justice will be served."

"Which reminds me, Lady Friedrich, I understand there was some anger at the way we chose to handle things after the incident. Allow me to formally apologize, we came upon the carriage not long after it was attacked but had no way of knowing how many men attacked it. The decision was made not to pursue whomever had done this as we did not have permission to hunt in his Majesty's wood and are not familiar with it either. We thought no good could come of pursuing the threat, especially if we were attacked later, and so stayed together as one until we reached the castle. I apologize if this at all hinders your ability to track the scoundrels down." Meera addressed Claramond directly in a clear manner, wanting to explain the situation before she formed a poor opinion of their actions. It was clear to Meera that in order to win over King Edmond she must win over his court as well.

Claramond quickly waved her hand, “No no your grace, no apologies necessary, you did indeed make the right decision prioritizing the safety of the father and daughter. “ Claramond said. “While some parts of being informed of this were, quite irritating,” Claramond said pointedly, to which Lord Cromwell seemed unbothered by despite the comment being aimed at him, “My anger, much like Edmonds, is due to the fact I have very little tolerance for attacks on our people. It is dishonorable to attack unarmed people who cannot properly defend themselves.” She said with a condemning tone, “Do not worry your highness, our rangers know the area well. Though the scoundrels have a head start, they can only hide for so long before being discovered.” She said.

"I am glad to hear of this. We have every faith in these rangers then." Meera nodded, smiling. She would be very interested in meeting the scoundrels as well, though entirely unsure of what to say, she'd have some sort of unpleasant choice words for them. In this, at least Theren and Beleth were united.

At this point servants approached the Beleth side of the table with trays containing empty bowls, small bottles with strange liquid in them, jugs of water and towels. After placing them in front of them the Beleth party including the king opened the bottles and poured an amber liquid into their hands before proceeding to rub them. This honey appearing substance stuck to their hands and slowly began to foam as they continued to rub their hands for a minute. Once finished they took the water jug and rinsed their hands thoroughly before drying them with the towels. They thanked the servants as they took the trays away. Shortly after the food arrived the Beleth part displayed another peculiar custom. Once Edmond and his court had finished the typical etiquette before eating, they pressed their hands together, closed their eyes and in near unison said outloud “Hana vo sota”. With their strange ritual complete they took their utensils and began eating. The Theren side of the table watched this curiously, wondering what they were doing, and what the short prayer they said before eating was. Meera looked to Lord Cromwell from her seat, he nodded to her knowlingly. There would be much reading and research for him tonight, by tomorrow Meera needed to know everything she could about Belethan etiquette.

The rest of dinner was spent in a light and pleasant manner, issuing small talk, of nothing too important. Although the ladies helped however there were a few who remained for the bulk of the evening very quiet. Nothing controversial was brought up or spoke of, and no fights broke out. All things considered, a successful evening for the first of many dinners Edmond and Meera would be sharing as husband and wife.

Snippet #2705538

located in Beleth, a part of Till Death, one of the many universes on RPG.

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