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Sylas Thorne

"I dare you to do better."

0 · 955 views · located in The Black Keep

a character in “Blackvale”, as played by mjolnir

Description

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{"Challenge me and you will lose."}

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F U L L 0 N A M E
Sylas Thorne

N I C K N A M E
Sy, The Viper, The Silver Tongued Snake

A G E
26

G E N D E R
Male

S E X U A L I T Y
Heterosexual

R O L E
Only Son & Eldest Twin

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H E I G H T
6' 3"

W E I G H T
190 lbs
Purely muscle


H A I R
Sylas has dark brunette hair that borders on an onyx black that matches that of his sister's. At a younger age he kept his hair shorter and coiffed in a manor that pleased his mother. But as he came of age he let it grow down to his shoulders which he often times keeps back in a ponytail. On rare occasion he shaves but more often then not he has a well maintained beard that accentuates his strong jawline.

E Y E S
Sylas has eyes that upon close examination are an ice blue or hazel. But like his sister their irises tend to shift colors depending on their attire or mood. But for him it is only noticeable close up because from far away they always seem a piercing grey.

O D D I T I E S
More of a silent man, Sylas doesn't use words unless he feels they're needed. Usually he stays silent and observant, twirling the rings upon his fingers. His face is hard to read and only his twin is able to tell the emotions lying beneath.

A P P E A R A N C E
It has been said that Sylas is so handsome that it rivals that of the Blackvale's princes. But where they are youthful and bright with their golden hair, Sylas is the tall and dark. He carries himself with an effortless elegance showing himself to be poised and proper. His movements are like a dance with how smooth and graceful they are, contrasting his rugged bravado. He is rarely seen in anything other than black but even with his lack of color somehow he turns heads when he enters a room. Many men wish to be him and even more women wish to be with him.

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P E R S O N A L I T Y
✦ Charming ✧ Intimidating ✦ Superior ✧ Cunning ✦

Sylas has two sides to him and to most they never know about this. They only see the black or the white. On side of him is the epitome of all men. He can be charming without saying a single word. He knows the art of seduction and beguiling like many know the native tongue. He has a way about him where he could be telling someone he was about to slit their throat and somehow it would seem euphoric. His words and mannerisms have power to them and he loved nothing more than being able to make someone bend to his every whim with a few velvet lined words.

But the black side of him is darker than anyone knows. He's manipulative, cunning and deceptive. Sylas will get what he wants and he'll do whatever it takes to get it. In the case of someone seeing this side of him he is terrifying and unhinged. Unlike the rest of his family who tend to use blackmail and skill he uses intimidation and even torture. He doesn't take kindly to being double crossed or challenged. He will make them regret that decision and still come out on top.

Sylas has the very predominant Thorne trait of an extreme superiority complex. He believes he's the best and isn't afraid to show it. He carries himself in way that his confidence radiates from him. In his mind him and his sister are the pinnacle of perfection and that they should present themselves as such.
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S T R E N G T H S
Archery // Something he always did to pass the time when he was young. There's always something to shoot at in the Dark Wood.

Seduction // Sylas has a way with words to make any woman weak in the knees.

Melee // He is constantly working on his physique between training and sparring the help. He's found to be more deadly with his bare hands than with a sword.

Dancing // His mother made sure he was well versed in the ways of the ballroom. He has been known to have multiple women waiting at the chance to share a song with him at any ball he attends.

Physically strong// In his mind it is inacceptable to be anything but the best, his strength being something he works on daily.

Playing Piano// Self taught, he always found enjoyment out of music and decided to learn how to create it himself.

Deception // Sylas is skilled at making people believe whatever he wants.

W E A K N E S S E S
Sylva // Inseparable since the womb, Sylas' bond with his sister is deeper than anyone would ever know. She is everything to him.

Temper // Although he comes off calm and collected, it's not difficult to push him past his boiling point.

Control // Sylas is someone who always has to be in control and when he loses that control to someone or something else he does not handle it well, often lashing out.

Compassion // He can fake compassion but when it comes to truly caring or loving he is rather cold towards anyone besides Sylva.

L I K E S
Reading // Power // Night // Snow // Darkness // Wine // Fires // Swimming // Sparring // Music // Being in Control

D I S L I K E S
The Royal Family // Arranged marriages // Chatty People // Rules // Morals // Deception

F E A R S
Losing Sylva // If she were taken from him, Sylas would be inconsolable. He wouldn't merely lose his mind but become unhinged and go into a rampage until someone was finally able to stop him and kill him.

His Love Revealed // Although him and his sister do not find a thing wrong with their love, others will. He fears what that knowledge could do to them if it became widely know which is why it remains secret.

Sylva Exposed // Although there are rumors about his mother's witchcraft nothing has spread about Sylva. He does all within his power to keep it hidden from the publics eyes so she's safe.

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H I S T O R Y
Sylas and his twin sister Sylva were the first and only born children to Lord Vladmir and Lady Desdemona. From a young age his parents made sure he learned everything a growing young lord should know. Being anything less than perfection was not an option in the Thorne household and quickly it became second nature for him to walk, talk and act like a noble should.

As Sylas began to reach adolescence he had already began to gain a reputation throughout the Dark Wood and even parts of the Blackvale. He was a desired Lord for many of the young women throughout the kingdom. His parents wasted no time in holding many balls and galas trying to show him off as an eligible bachelor to try and find a suitable bride. It seemed the more and more events his parents held the more Sylas grew to detest the other nobles, especially the women. Vain and vile creatures who would do anything to have him on their arm. They may have been agreeable to look upon but lacked all substance when it came to conversing.

At some point along all of the parading of young Ladies around him Sylas grew to realize the only woman besides his mother that he felt himself around was his sister. He'll never admit if it was a sudden realization or a subtle growth in feelings but something inside him grew to care for his sister not only as a sibling but a lover as well. No matter how he felt about his sister he knew the subject taboo and frowned upon in the Blackvale. So instead of acting upon them he did nothing.

He doesn't know when Sylva began to feel the same way as he did. Sylas only knew about the mutual feelings when she made the move on him. He wasn't willing to risk their family's status and his bond with his sister by feelings he was having that he shouldn't. But after she revealed her true feelings Sylas no long had to hide his own. Their love grew deeply and quickly. It's unknown if their parents know about how they are with each other but the Thornes' superiority probably wouldn't bother the parents that they do love each other. They couldn't do better than each other in Thornes' eyes.

Even if his parents know and have no issue with Sylas' relationship with his sister, they still had no choice to accept the invitation to the Black Keep. If they declined questions would be raised. So instead the family decided to accept and maybe... Ignites some plans that had been brewing for a long time.


F A M I L Y 0 T I E S
Vladmir Thorne // Father // Alive // Vladmir has been tough on Sylas since he was a boy raising him to be a strong independent man to carry on the Thorne name and hopefully one day bring them the throne. Sylas has respect for his father but isn't as close to him as he could be.

Desdemona Thorne // Mother // Alive // Sylas cares deeply for his mother and has often been the hand to help snuff out the rumors about her. He would do anything for her and part of the reason he strives to be the best he can be is to make his mother proud.

Sylva Thorne // Sister // Alive // Sylva and Sylas have a bond that no one would understand. They came into the world together and cannot be parted. They were made to be together and they'd stop anyone who disagreed.

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F A C E C L A I M
Henry Cavill

H E X C O D E
#999999

C R E A T O R
Scar.-

So begins...

Sylas Thorne's Story

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Rhaegar Castillon Character Portrait: Brom Castillon Character Portrait: Gwendolynn Castillon
Tag Characters » Add to Arc »

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#, as written by mjolnir
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RHAEGAR CASTILLON
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Heir to Blackvale | The Falcon
#B70909 | Outfit
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BROM CASTILLON
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Prince | The Peacock
#061B62 | Outfit
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SYLAS THORNE
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Heir to Dark Wood | The Viper
#999999 | Outfit
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GWENDOLYNN CASTILLON
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Princess | The Little Dove
#F56E6F | Outfit


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It was the first official day of summer but it felt like it was mid-season. Every window in the keep was open allowing breezes to roll in and the drapes to wave in the hallways. Servants rushed around every corridor busying themselves in final preparations after months of planning. It was obvious they were avoiding the Queen as much as possible as well, poking their heads around corners before entering new hallways or rooms.

Rhaegar tried his best to stay out of their way as he strolled throughout the castle. He had been hoping this day would never come but alas it was here and he was trying to wrap his mind around it all. It wasn’t an arranged marriage per say but only getting a pool of maybe ten women to choose from… Noble women at that, isn’t much of free choice.

As he turned another corner he nearly knocked over a maid that was carrying a mountain of plates. Quick with his hands, Rhaegar managed to keep the tower from tipping over. β€œI’m sorry, I should look where I’m going.” He lifted a majority of the stack out of her arms so that he could see her face. β€œHere let me help you.”

β€œYour Grace!” the young woman gasped. β€œI’m so sorry.”

β€œIt’s quite alright Juliet.” Rhaegar nodded his head for him to follow her lead. β€œLead the way, I’ll follow.”

β€œOh… Yes… Thank you Your Grace.” She curtsied before heading down the hall towards the grand dining hall.

As they entered the room it was filled with two rather long tables and a smaller one a few steps higher where the royals always sat. Their finest white and gold trimmed silk table cloths covered the brand-new dining tables. The royal bank spared no expense. Standing near the royals table the King stood at the far end nodding his head and talking to several of the handmaidens and servants that were going to be working directly for the nobles.

Rhaegar followed Juliet setting down the dishes beside her own stack on the farthest table. The young woman curtsied once again, β€œThank you Your Grace.”

He nodded his head towards her before his attention was drawn towards his father who called out towards him, β€œRhaegar.” The King motioned for him to come before dismissing the servants around him.

Rhaegar made his way towards his father who was smiling and tried to give him a reassuring pat on his shoulder. β€œSo apparently, your mother is having the other young nobles stay in the empty chambers in the same wing as you and your siblings.”

β€œThat… Sounds like a bad idea,” Rhaegar said as he rubbed the back of his neck.

β€œWell,” the King said, β€œunfortunately I was unable to dissuade her.” His father paced a bit, scratching his freshly trimmed beard. β€œThis is going to be the longest summer in a century which means our guests will be here for a long while. So please be smart… We’ll have enough issues; we don’t need scandals making this more difficult than it needs to be.”

β€œFather…” Rhaegar laughed half-heartedly, β€œyou’re telling the wrong son.”

β€œYes well, tell Brom as well won’t you?” The King asked before nodding his head to let Rhaegar know he was free to go. He stepped down from the royal’s platform at the front of the dining hall and headed towards the door. Halfway through the large room his father called out after him, β€œRhae… Do find Gwen, before your mother does. Today’s stressful enough, we don’t need to make it worse.” The king chuckled towards his son before he began conversing with more servants and continued preparations.

He figured the best place to find his sister would be as far away from the commotion as possible. Rhaegar made his way towards the back of the castle, turning down numerous corridors until he came to the long hall that bordered the ballroom and the great doors leading to the gardens. When he went to open the doors and head outside he felt a hand grasp his shoulder. He turned around and found himself facing his brother.

Brom seemed less than thrilled. β€œThis is all your fault,” he said as he followed his twin outside onto the porch that over looked the large gardens.

β€œLook I didn’t kick you out of the womb. It’s not my fault your face is messed up,” Rhaegar said as he rested his arms against the stone railing of the porch, smiling towards his brother.

Brom snorted back a laugh. β€œEveryone knows I’m the better looking one… But that’s not what I meant.”

β€œPray tell dear brother,” Rhaegar said sarcastically as he scanned the gardens for their sister.

Brom began searching alongside his brother, quickly pointing at a tuft of red hair up in a tree on the far side of the gardens. β€œIt’s your fault this whole stupid thing is happening.” He started down the stairs of the porch and into the gardens with Rhaegar following closely behind. β€œIf you would have just gotten married—”

β€œBecause you would have said yes to an arranged marriage without batting an eye.”

β€œWell no but…”

β€œBut what, Brom?”

β€œThey couldn’t have been all that bad. That one from… She had the face with the hair…”

β€œThat’s descriptive.”

β€œWell, she was attractive.”

β€œYeah, and I’m sure the rest of them were too. But beauty does not make someone a good person. I mean… Look at you.”

β€œHilarious.”

Rhaegar crossed his arms as they followed the gravel path back towards the tree where their sister was presumably hiding from the world. β€œYou should be thanking me.”

β€œWhy? Because now I have until the end of summer to choose a wife?”

β€œYes. If I hadn’t ran away from seven arrange marriages—”

β€œEight.”

β€œWhatever… Eight arranged marriages. Then you’d be forced into one, same with Gwen. You’re getting the chance to potentially choose your bride. What other Princes get that opportunity?”

Brom held up his index finger. β€œJustify it however you want but I know you’re as upset about this as I am, and Gwen.”

As her name was said a blur of red hair swooped down from the tree above until she came to a stop hanging upside by her legs from the tree. β€œSpeak of the devil and heβ€”or sheβ€”will appear,” Gwen said as she wiggled her fingers at them.

β€œWhat in the world are you doing up there?” Rhaegar asked trying not to laugh as he looked up at his sister.

β€œHiding,” she said as she lifted herself back up so she was straddling the branch.

β€œFrom what? Brom isn’t that ugly,” Rhaegar said teasingly.

β€œI thought maybe if I disappeared mother would forget I exist.”

β€œIf only it was that easy,” Brom leaned against the trunk of the tree. β€œIf I have to go through this hell you do too.”

β€œBut why?” Gwen whined as she laid back on the branch, her left leg dangling beneath her. β€œWhat does my marriage or lack thereof have an effect on anything. It’s not like I am to be King.”

β€œYou sure? I think you’d look marvelous with Father’s beard,” Rhaegar said as he playfully swung his sister’s foot.

β€œHe’s been like this all day. Obviously, something is bothering him,” Brom said raising his brows suggestively towards his more stoic brother.

β€œI mean I want you to find happiness Rhaegar, I do.” Gwen poked her brother’s shoulder with her foot. β€œBut couldn’t you have found happiness with one of those eight women?”

β€œHa!” Brom stood up right pointing towards Rhaegar.

β€œGwendolynn Francine Castillon! Get down from that tree at once!” The Queen’s shrill voice shouting over the vast garden surprised Gwen so much that lost her balance on the branch. If it wasn’t for Rhaegar and Brom beneath the tree, her fall would have been much worse. But they were quick, well aware of their sister’s clumsiness and caught her before she hit the ground and helped her to her feet.

β€œSo much for your invisibility,” Brom teased.

β€œThe three of you, get inside this instant,” the Queen hollered from the baloney. β€œBanners are seen on the horizon and you all are out in the gardens!” She stormed back inside, slamming the doors shut behind her.

β€œI’m not going in there,” Gwendolynn said as she crossed her arms over her chest.

β€œOh yes you are,” Rhaegar said before picking her up and hoisting her over his shoulder.

Gwen sighed letting her arms and head dangle along her brother’s back, β€œBut I don’t want to get married.” The brothers laughed as they all headed back towards the keep to prepare for their guests.

***

Sylas was never one for stuffy carriages. A woman’s place in his opinion. Instead he rode his horse along with the rest of the guard. When he felt that they were nearing the end of the King’s road he galloped ahead to reach the cusp of the hill before them. He slowed his horse at the top to behold the massive castle that was the Black Keep. It was a massive monument bigger than any of the other Hold’s keeps put together. It disgusted him at how their wealth was flaunted around for the rest of the Blackvale to behold. Modesty was lost on the royals.

He clipped his heels into the haunches of his horse and sped back towards the Thorne convoy. Sylas circled his horse around the carriage coming up beside it and knocked on the door. His mother pulled back the curtains revealing herself and his sister, Sylva, within. β€œWhat is it my son?”

β€œThe Keep is on the horizon. They’ve most likely seen our colors and will receive us upon arrival,” Sylas answered as he steadied his horse to ride in sync with the carriage.

β€œBlast. I was hoping we had at least a few more hours of travel before delving into that hell hole.”

β€œMy dear,” Vladmir said as he took his wife’s hand, β€œIt will be us that will make that hell hole fester and decay. It is no fun if you do not at least enjoy it.”

His mother smiled before looking between Sylas and his sister, β€œNow for the welcoming evening my dears, the King and Queen, no doubt, will have a celebratory ball. We shall be escorted in presented to their royal majesties and then everyone will be given the remainder of the even to mingle and dance.” She adjusted a loose strand of Sylva’s hair behind her ear. β€œNow as amusing as it would be to enter in a fashion, destroy everything and return home for dinner, that unfortunately isn’t the case.”

Desdemona reaches her hand out the window to stroke Sylas’ cheek lovingly. β€œI want you both to present yourselves as the elegant, charming and vastly superior darlings that you are. To the public’s eyes we’re perfect. We come out unscathed while everything else spirals into chaos.”

β€œYes mother.” Sylas smiled towards his mother before raising a brow in Sylva’s direction. β€œI shall ride ahead so they are ready for your arrival.”

Sylas rode his horse up to the keep crossing the draw bridge and stopping at the bottom of the staircase that lead up to the grand main entrance. As he dismounted a group of servants hurriedly moved to stand ready at the base of the stairs. Sylas dusted off his clothing before motioning for a young male servant to come towards him.

β€œYes, Lord Thorne?” the young servant asked with a bow.

β€œWhat is your name my fine fellow?” Sylas asked, resting his hand upon the servant’s shoulder to turn their backs towards the remaining others.

β€œUh… Maxwell, my Lord.”

β€œWhat, pray tell, are the sleeping arrangements for us visiting nobles?”

β€œThe nobles that being presented as potential suitors for the royal family will stay in the west wing where the Princes’ and Princess’ chambers are located. While the presiding Lords and Ladies of each hold will have their own suites in the northern wing, my Lord.”

β€œSplendid,” Sylas said as he removed his hand from the servant’s shoulder to open his robes to reach an interior pocket. β€œI have a request to ask of you my dear Maxwell regarding said sleeping arrangements.”

β€œYes, my Lord. But you see, my Lord, the King and Queen have already assigned the rooms accordingly and—”

Sylas took the servant’s hand and places a black velvet coin purse in his hand that was fairly full of gold coins. β€œMy sister and I would like adjacent west facing rooms with either a door connecting the room or a private corridor so that we may visit each other without interruption.”

β€œYes, my Lord. Of course, my Lord.” The servant bowed multiple times.

Before he let the servant go, Sylas took a step towards him speaking in a hushed tone. β€œTell no one the topic of this chat. Maxwell, my good man, if you work faithfully for me while I am here and do as I ask without question… By the time we leave this keep you will have enough gold to get your own castle.”

The servant’s eyes widened as he bowed yet again. β€œCertainly my Lord. Anything you wish. I will have those rooms sorted out for you immediately,” he said before rushing inside.

Sylas turned towards the remaining servants, giving a charming grin towards the females among the group. β€œIf one of you might be so lovely to take my dear Xavier to the stables I would be ever so grateful,” he said towards a fair looking blonde servant as he twirled a lock her hair with his finger.

She giggled, exchanging cheerful grins with the other girls before nodding her head and curtsying towards him. β€œYes my Lord.” As she made her way towards the horse she stopped beside Sylas and whispered, β€œAnd if there is anything you may need, my Lord, anything at all… I am Margarete.”

Once the girl disappeared with his horse, Sylas looked towards the approaching carriage, the fake smile he wore for the servant vanished in the blink of an eye. When a servant approached to open the door, he waved them off and opened the door himself. His father emerged first, then Sylas offered his hand to his mother and helped her from the carriage. Following her, he did the same for his sister.

β€œSylas darling,” his mother said to get his attention as she held her arm out towards him, β€œwould you escort me?”

β€œOf course mother,” Sylas said with a genuine smile as he took his mother’s arm and lead her up the stairs.

When they were a decent amount ahead of his father and sister, she leaned in slightly to whisper in his ear. β€œI know.”

Sylas glanced over towards her with slight shock. She didn’t have to say what for him to know what she meant. But before he could be covered in a cold sweat and feel a lump grow in his throat, she gave his arm a comforting squeeze. β€œMy love, I could not be happier nor approve more. But I implore that this stays mum while in the Black Keep.” Just before they step through the door, she glances towards him, β€œThis is a dangerous game and I don’t want to lose my family to the turmoil.”

Sylas raised up his free hand and rested it upon his mother’s that grasped the crook in his arm. β€œOf course mother.” Desdemona smiled sweetly before leaning forward and pressing a kiss upon his cheek.

As they entered into rather grand foyer, Sylas had to fight the urge to groan and roll his eyes at the sight. No doubt nearly everything in this damned castle had been purchased a new particularly for this exact occasion. It was disgusting. Almost everything was plated in gold, fresh marble or silver polished so much that he could see his reflection in it.

His attention was brought back to his current crowd when a servant stepped forward and bowed in greeting. β€œMy Lords. My Ladies. It a pleasure to meet the noble and prestigious house of Thorne. Our servants will take your belongings to your rooms and service your horses and carriages while you stay in the Black Keep. I will be leading you to the ballroom where the Commencement Ball is taking place.” He bowed once more before heading down the halls and leading them towards the rear end of the castle where the large ballroom bordered dozens of glass doors that lead straight out into the gardens.

When they reached the entrance to the ballroom the servant opened the doors and stepped forward as he began to announce them. β€œYour Grace. Your Grace.” He nodded his head towards the King and the Queen. β€œI present the noble house of Thorne. Lord Vladmir and Lady Desdemona escorting their children Lord Sylas and Lady Sylva.”

The ballroom was giant and looked like everything within it was gold. Its grand size put the rumors to shame. The room could easily fit a majority if not all of the citizens of the Blackvale within it.

Now approaching them was no doubt the King and Queen. Sylas had never met them face to face before but they lived up to what he heard. The King looked like he had the potential to be a decent ruler, but being King put some grey into his hair and wrinkles around his eyes. While the Queen held herself like she was still twenty, and dressed like she was as well. No doubt a woman not comfortable with her age.

β€œWelcome my Lord and Ladies. It is such an honor for you all to be staying with us this summer in the Black Keep.” The King smiled what looked like a genuine smile as he shook Vlad’s and Sylas’ hand before bowing and kissing Desdemona’s and Sylva’s. β€œWe want these following months to be enjoyable and comfortable so please, call me Magnus and my wife Guinevere, and do not hesitate to ask for anything.”

The Queen looked like she wanted to snarl at the idea of being called her first name and not by her title. But she quickly pushed the feelings back and took a step forward. β€œWe greatly appreciate the opportunity of allowing your children to come and mingle amongst the other young nobles. Please make yourselves comfortable. There is food and champagne at the tables along the back wall. Once the other families have joined us we shall introduce our… Lovely children.”

***

Gwendolynn was barely able to sit on the bench before her armoire as her handmaiden put her tiara upon her head, perfectly nestled in her intricately done red hair. β€œGertrude, I think you put this on too tight.” Gwen’s hand rested upon her ribcage as she tried to breathe normally with the corset on beneath the gown.

β€œMy Lady, your mother specifically told you me that you must be dressed properly over the course of the summer. This is how she wears her own corsets.” She moved to her knees, helping Gwen into her heels.

β€œMother has no heart, it’s easier for her.”

Gertrude laughed as she took the silk ribbons of her shoes and wrapped them around Gwen’s ankles, tying them in a bow.

β€œGerty?”

β€œYes, Miss Gwen?”

β€œWhat the hell are those?” She pointed to the heels at the bottoms of her shoes.

β€œNewest fashion my Lady. It’s supposed to make you look taller.”

β€œIt looks like a hazard… I’m already wearing more fabric then all the curtains in this blasted keep, now I’m going to walk around like a newborn fawn.”

β€œMy Lady I promise, there is no thought to it.” Gertrude offered Gwen her hand so she could stand. β€œWell I’d bet my hat that you will be the prettiest girl there tonight. Even prettier than your mother.”

Gwen chuckled as she walked towards the door, taking a couple steps to get used to the shoes. β€œDon’t tell mother that or I’ll lose my hand maiden.” She smiled towards her hand maiden and friend before stepping out into the hallway to find her brother’s already waiting for her.

β€œThank the Gods, she’s finally ready,” Brom huffed as he pushed off the wall he was leaning against.

β€œWell you’re free to wear the corset and I’ll wear the trousers,” Gwen said.

β€œI don’t have the breasts for one,” Brom said as he looked down at his chest.

β€œAre you sure?” Rhaegar said as he pocked Brom’s pectoral.

Brom swatted away his brother’s hand before adjusting his clothes so everything laid perfectly without blemish or crease.

β€œSuch the peacock,” Gwen teased as she purposely messed up her brother’s attire every time he fixed it.

Before they could fuss with each other some more Rhaegar’s personal servant Charles hurried into their presence, bowing before them. β€œYour mother has requested that I escort you all to the study where she’d like you to wait until the noble houses have arrived and been announced in the ballroom.”

Rhaegar offered his arm to Gwen. She took it without hesitation while using her other hand to scoop up the excessive train of her ball gown. Brom followed a few steps behind still adjusting his formal attire.

When they reached the study the servant left them to wait in the ballroom until ordered to go fetch them. Gwen yanked off her tiara to study it. β€œWhat is the purpose of wearing this anyways?”

β€œSo no one mistakes you for a servant. Very similar,” Brom said as he motioned to her face.

Gwen went to chuck her crown at him but Rhaegar quickly grabbed her wrist before she could. β€œWoah there. Breaking that would be one thing mother wouldn’t forgive.”

She sighed as her brother placed the over decorative head ornament back upon her. β€œI just… I don’t understand. If she’s having us wait here to be paraded into that ballroom and presented to all these nobles, then why in bloody hell do we have to wear crowns? They’re just heavy, awkward and make us stand out like sore thumbs.”

β€œI don’t need a crown to stand out,” Brom says as he fixes the crown upon his head.

β€œNot everyone enjoys being the center of attention.”

β€œNo not everyone. Just me.”

β€œIt’s probably for mother to keep an eye on us in the crowd,” Rhaegar says as he takes a seat at the piano running his hand along the keys.

Gwen snorts as she holds her chest to brace herself from the pressure of the corset as she attempted to sit down beside her brother. β€œFairly certain I’m the only redhead in the ballroom aside from father.”

Brom absently walked over to the window, pushing back the blind to look outside. He saw a carriage pull up to the entrance and four family members emerge, one with red hair that could rival his own sister’s. β€œApparently not the only one.”

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Rosalyn Grayson
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ROSALYN GRAYSON
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King's Bastard | The Red Rose
#660033 | Outfit
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SERAPHINA GRAYSON
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Eldest True Grayson | The Sweet Pea
#C19A6B | Outfit
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SYLVA THORNE
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Sylas' Twin | The Cobra
#583668 | Outfit
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AURORA GRAYSON
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Youngest Grayson | The Little Petal
#87758F | Outfit


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If Sylva had it her way, she would be dressed in fine leathers sitting on the back of her brothers horse, arms wrapped around him feeling the wind in her hair. What she was actually doing was sitting in a carriage across from her mother and father. Nothing against her parents, she loved them dearly. It was just that after hours sitting in the carriage she grew tired of the bumps and swerves that left her more sour as the long ride went on. Not to mention the fact that she was dolled up in one of her fancier dresses that was made of layers upon layers of thick navy blue tule. A corset was wrapped around her torso, compressing her spine. Her mass of thick black curls were arranged into a perfectly styled undo with small white pearls scattered within it.

Her mother, seeming to notice her discomfort, smiled and leaned over to cup her cheek. β€œBeauty is pain, my darling. We must keep up this ruse to fool the royals, you know that.” Sylva smiled and leaned into her mothers hand. β€œOf course mother. I know. I will enjoy fooling the inferior.” Lord Vladimir smirked. β€œThats my daughter.” He commented and rested a hand on Desdemona’s leg.

Suddenly a knock came to the side of the carriage. Her mother pulled back the curtain and looked outside to where Sylas, Sylva’s older twin brother, was there riding alongside the carriage’s window. β€œWhat is it my son?” Their mother asked with a smile.

β€œThe Keep is on the horizon. They’ve most likely seen our colors and will receive us upon arrival,” Sylas answered as he rode beside the carriage. Sylva almost groaned in relief. She would feel a lot better when her feet touched the ground.

Their mother smiled while looking between the two twins, β€œNow for the welcoming evening my dears, the King and Queen no doubt will have a celebratory ball. We shall be escorted in presented to their royal majesties and then everyone will be given the remainder of the even to mingle and dance.” She reached forward and tucked a loose curl of Sylva’s behind her ear and gave her a sly smirk. β€œNow as amusing as it would be to enter in a fashion, destroy everything and return home for dinner, that unfortunately isn’t the case.”

Desdemona reached out and touched her brothers face through the window. β€œI want you both to present yourselves as the elegant, charming and vastly superior darlings that you are. To the public’s eyes we’re perfect. We come out unscathed while everything else spirals into chaos.”

β€œYes mother.” Sylas smiled towards his mother before raising a brow in Sylva’s direction. Sylva rolled her eyes and raised both of her eyebrows back at him. β€œI shall ride ahead so they are ready for your arrival.” Sylva nodded. Knowing him, he would be able to get their sleeping arrangements planned accordingly.

Desdemona waved him off and looked at Sylva with a small smirk. She raised a finger to her mouth before turning to Lord Vladimir and smiling. β€œMy Love, would you mind looking out the window for a while? Our darling Daughter and I must have a chat.” She hummed and snapped her fingers in front of his face. Vladimir blinked as she snapped in front of him, but his eyes dulled and he nodded. β€œOf course my darling wife.” He said, transfixed. He then turned his head and stared out the window mindlessly.

Sylva nodded. She had seen this done many times before. Her mother was a witch, a trait that had been passed down to herself. Though her mother was a lovely woman, she had come from a family of disgraced witches who dwelled in the Dark Woods. With a bit of that magic she had been able to weave her war into the Thorne nobility. Maybe it had been wrong, but Sylva agreed to every bit of it. Besides, her mother was a superior being and nobility suited her well.

β€œNow, darling, we must talk about the uses of our magic while we are on this excursion.” Her mother smirked. Sylva smirked back. β€œOf course mother.” Desdemona cupped Sylva’s cheek. β€œNow, as much as we should just transfix and charm the prince or princess to marry you or your brother, I think it would be much more interesting to wait and see how things play out. You know how inferior nobles are; most times they don’t need our help destroying things.” They laughed together and Sylva nodded. β€œOf course Mother, it will be quite fun watching them run around like chickens with their heads cut off.” Desdemona rubbed her cheek softly. β€œWe shall be the fire that burns the earth around those decapitated birds when the timing is right. That being said… Make sure you have a lot of fun. The Thorne way.” Sylva’s smirk grew in side. The β€˜Thorne’ manner of having fun with others was a bit unorthodox. Lying, cheating, stealing and causing accidents all while feigning innocence and getting away with it was a past time of the Thornes. Sylva alone had fin tormenting the servants at home, think of how much better it would be with a handful of snobby royals and nobles. They were much better targets, as they had much farther to fall.

Desdemona leaned back and snapped her ringers in front of Lord Vladimir’s face again, bringing him back to reality. He blinked in confusion but before he could ask questions, Sylva’s mother gave him a quick peck and the carriage pulled to a halt. Sylva looked out the window just in time to see her brother flirting with a blonde haired slave. Her eyes narrowed but she kept her composure.

The carriage doors opened and Lord Vladimir was the first to slide out, followed by her mother and lastly her. As she slid from the carriage she took her brothers hand, secretly sliding her fingers though his, before stepping down and letting go. Their mother decided to take Sylas’ arm to be ushered in, leaving her with her father. Vladimir wrapped his arm around his daughters waist and smiled. β€œYou look beautiful darling.” Sylva gave him a genuine smile. β€œThank you daddy.”

Before they were too far away, Sylva looked behind her at the retreating blonde haired slave that was ushering Sylas’s horse away. Sylva smirked and flicked her wrist in the girls direction and watched as she suddenly shrieked and slipped on something, making her land face first in the mud at her feet. Sylva with held a laugh and continued on her way with her father.

The inside of the palace looked like the home for a crow. So many shiny things gathered into one palace it was an anomaly anyone here still had eyes. She was sure that if they could, they would have plated the castle walls in gold as well. It made her want to retch at the sight of it all. She much preferred darker, drearier, more gothic architecture and furnishings like their home in the Dark Woods. She tried to avert her eyes from the shiny objects on the way to the ballroom.

At the entrance to the ballroom the man servant there addressed the King and Queen to bring their attention. β€œI present the noble house of Thorne. Lord Vladmir and Lady Desdemona escorting their children Lord Sylas and Lady Sylva.” The King and Queen walked closer and Sylva resisted the urge to roll her eyes. Though the King looked quite suited to his outfit and medals and adornments, the Queen was the opposite. She seemed to be the Queen Crow that resided over all the shiny things and she certainly didn’t pull it off well.

β€œWelcome my Lord and Ladies. It is such an honor for you all to be staying with us this summer in the Black Keep.” The King smiled calmly. It was surprisingly handsome for such an old man. He shook both her father and brothers hands before placing kisses on her mother and her hands. His lips felt like leather, but she endured. β€œWe want these following months to be enjoyable and comfortable so please, call me Magnus and my wife Guinevere, and do not hesitate to ask for anything.”

The Queen looked uncomfortable with just about everything the man had just said, but like the lady she was, she tried to keep a calm composure. β€œWe greatly appreciate the opportunity of allowing your children to come and mingle amongst the other young nobles. Please make yourselves comfortable. There is food and champagne at the tables along the back wall. Once the other families have joined us we shall introduce our… Lovely children.”

Sylva curtsied and when they left to greet the next family she turned to her father. β€œI will go survey the area father.” She pecked his cheek before walking to her mother and Sylas. β€œExcuse me mother, for I must steal by brother. I feel that having some alcohol in my system may make the socializing a tad less painful.”

Desdemona chuckled softly and nodded before straightening out a part of Sylas’ outfit and fixing that loose strand of Sylva’s hair again. β€œI would say behave, but where is the fun in that.” She chided before looking at Sylas with a bit more of a serious look. β€œMake sure she doesn't get too drunk. Remember what happened that one New Years eve?”

Sylva winced. β€œYes yes, I accidentally burnt down half the stables. Don’t worry mother. He will take care of me, he always does.” She smiled, and with that she looped her arm through Sylas’ and pulled him off to go drown herself in champagne.

***


Aurora had been watching out the window for hours, seeing the day turn to night and then day again. She watched as the lush forests, rivers filled with fish, and fields of flowers turned into more mystical looking woods with taller trees and lakes. They certainly weren’t in the Riverlands any longer.

β€œHow long is she going to be daydreaming like that? Its almost been two days. Ugh. Hello? Aurora!? Wake up Aurora!” It wasn't until someone snapped into her face did she realize she had been zoning out.

Aurora turned her head from the window for once and looked at the two other people in the carriage alongside her. Her two older sisters; Seraphina and Rosalyn. Seraphina looked rather annoyed as she always did and had her arms crossed against her chest as she pouted. Rosalyn, who was sitting beside her just smiled at her in amusment, rather used to her youngest sisters daydreaming.

β€œSorry, sorry. How long was I out again?” Aurora laughed and covered her mouth.

β€œOh who cares, we are almost there anyways! You wasted most of the trip just staring at nothing while I had to sit here quietly.” Seraphina pouted more and looked at her with a glare. Aurora laughed more. Her pouty look wasn’t menacing at all.

Rosalyn patted Aurora’s leg. β€œDon’t mind her, she's just getting nervous to see her Prince Charming.” She scoffed and laughed.

Seraphina almost threw her shoe at her older sister. She loved Rosalyn, but they were complete opposites and it sometimes grated on her nerves. β€œListen here, I am not nervous. Strong women do not get nervous! I am just… thinking.”

Aurora reached over to fix her sisters hair and straighten out the giant skirt of her dress. This very dress was the reason they had to take two carriages; the three Grayson daughters in one and their parents in the other. β€œSera, I didn’t know you liked to think. I thought you preferred plotting instead.” Aurora teased lightly.

Seraphina sighed. Whenever Aurora teased her she couldn’t get mad. The younger girl had no hateful bones in her body and she knew she was only doing it to get her to laugh. β€œThe reason they are having this event is for the noble families to find suitable matches for everyone.”

β€œRight, and out of everyone there your One True Love will just happen to be the next King of Blackvale Keep? How coincidental and fortunate for you.” Rosalyn shook her head. She would’t be here for that though. She had no plan to find herself a husband here, or for any husband at all. She had a different goal in mind. β€œDo you even know anything about the Crowned Prince!? He could be hideous, or very rude.”

Aurora looked at her sisters and shook her head. β€œI heard he’s very kind and handsome. He brings hope to even people in the Riverlands of how good a King he could be.”

β€œEither way doesn’t matter to me. He could be a toad with six legs and I would still marry him if he had the crown. Love can come after I’ve succeeded as Queen and given him his heir. It doesn’t even have to come at all.” Seraphina huffed. She wanted power and glory, that was her aim. She wouldn’t let her sisters get in the way of that, as much as she loved them so. Aurora, on the other hand, thought that was quite a sad way of looking at things. Unlike Seraphina who wanted to climb the social ladder, Aurora wanted actual love.

β€œI would marry a peasant if he made me happy.” Aurora shrugged.

β€œSo it should be.”

β€œThat, my dear sister, is why you won’t get anywhere in life. You need ambition!”

β€œYou have enough ambition for all three of us and the nation of the Riverlands combined.” Rosalyn chided and waved her off. β€œYou better be prepared because we are almost here.”

Seraphina shrieked and looked outside the window to see the large palace, otherwise known as her next home. At least thats what she thought. Aurora peered out beside her in amazement. Their keep at home was big, but this was just huge. She wondered if it had any secret passages or big libraries.

Rosalyn smiled at her two sisters and tried to keep the image of them like this in her head. She wasn’t sure if the two had realized yet but this was certainly going to change everything. By the end of the summer she wasn’t even sure if she would be seeing her two sisters again.

The carriage came to a halt outside of the castle and the door was opened by servant. Aurora popped out first to help pull Seraphina out of the carriage. She was wearing a whispy purple gown and had a pretty white flower wreath in her hair. It was easy for her to climb out. Seraphina on the other hand had a large champagne coloured ball gown that was extravagant but bulky, so while Aurora helped pull, Rosalyn helped push her from behind until the girl popped free of the carriage. Rosalyn slid out last in her own simple dress. The design itself was simple and it allowed for a lot of movement, but it was made to look fancier by the amount of glitter and shine on it. Not really her style but she had to keep appearances.

β€œDarlings, don’t you look lovely.” King Robert grinned as he and his wife walked closer. Servants ran from all over and brought giant umbrella’s over their heads. The women in their family were known for their fair skin. They never needed parasols, but the Kingdom didn’t seem to want to take any chances.

β€œThank you daddy.” Seraphina grinned and went up to peck his cheek and give him a hug. Aurora gave him a brief hug as well while Rosalyn went and embraced their mother.

β€œHow are you?” Rosalyn whispered in her mothers ear. Lady Elizabeth hugged her bag tightly in response. β€œEach old memory that comes back is like another old scar reopening. Yet you shouldn’t worry about your Mother, she can take care of herself. You, on the other hand, look lovely. You should try to dress up more often.”

Rosalyn smiled and shook her head, β€œYou know thats not what I’m here for.”

Robert looked at his wife and oldest child, his arms already adorned by Seraphina and Aurora. β€œWhat shall I do? Id doesn’t seem I have enough arms.” he laughed. All the women laughed softly but Rosalyn wrapped her arm around her mother. β€œI’ll escort Mother, you take care of those pesky girls on your arms.”

With that they were ushered into the castle. It was gorgeous and Seraphina seemed taken by the wealth, growing more and more excited by the moment. Aurora looked at all the art like she just wanted to sit and stare and daydream for a while. Rosalyn, though impressed, was almost disgusted by the show of wealth.

β€œMy Lord. My Ladies. It a pleasure to meet the noble and prestigious house of Grayson. Our servants will take your belongings to your rooms and service your horses and carriages while you stay in the Black Keep. I will be leading you to the ballroom where the Commencement Ball is taking place.” The man inside said, as if he had announced the same thing many times to the different families with only the change in family name.

The Grayson family followed along while gazing and taking in all the sights the palace had to offer. They certainly had pulled out all of the stops. When they arrived at the doors, Rosalyn felt her mother tense, knowing what was coming but Rosalyn clutched her tightly and walked in with her.

β€œI present the noble house of Grayson. Lord Robert and Lady Elizabeth escorting their children Lady Rosalyn, Lady Seraphina and Lady Aurora.” The servant announced and all heads turned to see who was next.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Vivienne Chaimbers Character Portrait: Rhaegar Castillon
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JONAH ALLYRION
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Eldest Child | The Winter's Wolf
#E80000 | Outfit
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CLARA ALLYRION
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Only Daughter | The Winter's Child
#388E8E | Outfit


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Days earlier...
Clara sat watching the snow. She sat on a bench, and leaned on a hand, staring out of the single window in her chambers, the glass was closed and the small hearth burned but she could still feel the cold. The night was particularly cold and dark. She sighed. Something was coming. Something as cold and as dark as this night.
Her Dreams told her as much...
A hefty knock came at the oaken door of her chambers. She turned just as her father, Lord Ramsey Allyrion, Lord of the North, a massive man, skin as dark as the night, yet with strangely light eyes, eyes she inherited. "What are you doing up here all along, Little One?" He asked, his voice strong and deep. She looked down at her feet. "Thinking." She said and he twitched a brow. Not angrily, curiously. "Clara." He said and took a seat on her bed, patting a place for her beside him. She sighed. It wasn't a lie, but she wasn't being forthcoming either. She walked over to him and sat beside him. "I have a bad feeling." She admitted and he said nothing, patiently waiting for her to continue. "I don't know what it is, I just..." She looked up and toward the window, watching the flakes fall and collect on the seal. She sighed. "It's...It's like just before a storm, a bad one, I can feel, the...static...the calm." she said and looked back at her father who was watching her. "What are our words." He asked, and she looked down at her hands, which had been twisting her skirts. "Day will rise." She said. "What does it mean?" He asked, and she looked at him. She knew the words, heard them all her life but she never considered what they meant. She thought she knew but the question made her question herself. She looked down, ashamed. "I'm...I'm not sure." She said and he placed a hand on her head. "A long time ago when our family first landed here from the south-lands." Her father began, stroking her dark hair. "They were used to the warmth of the sun, the days were longer in the south-lands and here in the north, the days were short, the night were long, and some days, the sun wouldn't come for months at a time," he said and she looked at him. She knew this story. Her father's people were from where the sun was hot, and it never snowed. She couldn't imagine a place where it didn't snow, even in the winter.
"They were terrified, the seeds they brought, didn't grow, winds howled, storms raged, and many, many did not survive but then...one day, after months of cold, and the death, the snow melt, plants grew, and the sun rose...." He said and she nodded. She knew this. "That's why those are our words...'Day will rise.'" She said and he smiled. "Yes, but it means more than that," he said. "It means, No matter how dark it seems. The Day will rise, they will get better." He said and she looked at him, understanding playing her face. "So, my little Clara, you might feel a storm, and perhaps it's on the rise, but remember our words...." He told her and pulled her into a warm embrace. "Day will rise." She sank into his hug, but she couldn't shake the feeling like something...something horrible was coming. Day would rise, but it had to be dark first.
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Jon twirled his practice sword, one, twice before bringing the wooden blade across the belly of an equally wooden dummy, following through with a sidelong spin as if the dummy had its own sword and would have taken the opportunity to swing in return. Jon rose the blade up and would have taken the head of his foe if he hadn't noticed brilliant red hair out of the corner of his eye. Stark against the white, gray and blues around him. His shoulders slacked, though his arms were still holding the sword high. "Mother..." he murmured but a smile touched his lips, lowering his weapon. He turned to her with an arch brow, still warning his grin. "That's mighty distracting." He told his mother, Lady Charlotte, as she approached him, her hands tucked into the fur-lined sleeves of her overdress. She merely smiled, one that mirrored his. "I enjoy watching you practice." She said, removing her hand from the warmth of her sleeve to reach up, cupping the back of his head to press a kiss to his forehead. He lowered, allowing her the kiss, though he felt a little odd, he was sweating, despite the cold, from the practice and surely the smell was offensive. He stood straight, leaning on his practice sword. "Father still speaking with Clara, I gather." He said and his mother laughed. "Can't I watch my son practice?" She asked feigning innocence. Jon shook his head. "Of course," He said. "Clearly you've nothing better to do." He said and expecting the swat that came to his arm. He wore his grin and so did she, for a moment before his mother's faded. She looked down at her feet and sighed. Her breath appearing in wisps from the exhale.
"Clara is in one of her moods again." She confessed, her native accent touching her words stronger now, she always had one but it was only this strong when she was upset. Jon could only sigh. He knew this of course. She had another episode last night where she ended up wandering around the Keep in her sleep. He was awoken by her running into his door. Thankfully the girl was tougher than she looked. He thought she might be sporting a bruise.

"She was sleep walking again, so..." Jon shrugged before tossing his wooden blade against the dummy and offering an arm to his mother. Her face was paler than usual, Jon noted, clearly, she must have been keeping herself busy.

"I wish I knew what to do." She told him and he sighed. Clara loved their mother and vice versa but she'd always been closer to Father. Mother couldn't reach her, she was often telling Clara all the things she did wrong, much like Father did to him. But whereas, Jon knew he meant well. Clara, though she didn't bruise easy, she had a soft heart, and for the first few years of her life, she was ill, to the point where they did not think she would survive. Thankfully she did, but she was bedridden for most of her life when she finally got better, Mother had to teach her all she needed to know about being a proper lady all at once, it seemed. Rather than, slowly like she would have if Clara was healthy. This put a strain on both of them. Clara had to grow up, quickly, and Mother couldn't treat her like the child she was inside. Jon got to be a child and learned to be a man. Clara woke up one day and she had to be a woman. Jon allowed her to be a child with him, Father did too, though he treated them both like children most of the time, but Mother could not, even when she wanted to. They turned into the keep and the large hearth that heated the main hall greeted them with warmth. Jon took a breath. "Talk to her." He said and his mother looked at him with a frown as if to say. 'I do.'

"I mean...have you tried to get to know her?" He asked and she looked offended "I know my daughter, Jon." she said and Jon sighed, patting the hand that was hooked around his arm. "No, I mean, truly get to know her, like, have you listened one of her songs?"
She rolled her eyes. "No, but she needs not to focus on that now." She said and he stopped their walk and turned to his mother. She was a tall woman but he still had her by a foot or two. "Perhaps," He stopped to lick his lips, knowing he was getting dangerously close to upsetting her. He did not want that. His mother was kind but wasn't someone one wanted angry. "Perhaps that's the problem." He said. "You haven't bothered to listen to her, you tell her what she needs to do, how she needs to do it, even why she needs to do it but...you haven't let her speak to you..."
His mother was quiet, which wasn't a good sign. "You haven't let her do those things her own way," he said and she frowned, looking off which -though she frowned- was a good sign. She was musing. He wondered if she was recalling the one time where Clara was sewing and she was signing, Jon had happened by and hear Mother tell her to stop and that she needed to focus, Jon knew that that was Clara's way of focusing. The moment she stopped singing the stitching wasn't as good as Mother wanted. Jon left after he hear mother fuss, but Clara told him the rest.

Mother looked up at him and sighed, a few stitching her brow. Jon said nothing else, watching her. She looked much like Clara at that moment, or rather, Clara looked much like her when she frowned. "Maybe you're right." She said finally and Jon realized then he hadn't been breathing. "Am I?" He asked with his wolfish grin, hoping to lighten the mood. Mother's face softened but otherwise made no acknowledge to his teasing. She merely huffed out of her nose, much like Clara does when she's relenting. "She's a woman now... And soon--very soon, she will need to marry, and I just want the best for her." She said but Jon stopped listening after 'she will need to marry'.
He looked at his mother, mouth agape. "Wait, what?"
His mother looked at him and then she heard herself. She looked away. "Mother, what are you talking about?" He asked, a little more urgently than he intended. The thought of Clara marrying...it turned his stomach. She was a beautiful girl but she knew nothing of the world and had a child's heart. She couldn't be married, not yet.

"Mother?" He urged and she turned to look at him, her green eyes wide, twisting her skirts. Jon felt a panic. "We were going to tell you both...together...Your Father and I," She said and Jon frowned. "Tell us what?"

"The King...He has requested our presence at the Black Keep; The other families will attend as well," She said and Jon felt as if he'd been kicked in the stomach. His brain already putting two and two together. The King and his father had always been close, and knowing Clara was of age now, Jon swallowed, bile churning his stomach. She could have more of a chance than most if they played this right.

"The King wants to parade my little sister around other women so that the Prince might choose one for a wife?" He couldn't hide his disgust. "She's a child." He spat and his mother flinched. He didn't mean to shout but it was too late for that now. "Magnus..." His mother started, reaching for him but he recoiled sharply. She called him his first name, not Jonah, his middle name but the namesake he was given after the King. This was bad. "Magnus...She's not." She said and he shook his head.
"But she is, she just doesn't look it." He said and stormed off. How could they do this to her? Clara wasn't ready for court life, and hell, neither was he. This was wrong.

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The next day, Clara and Jonah were called to the Great Hall. It was light with the morning sun casting a soft blue hue onto the stone walls. The Long Night had been over for a few years now and Day had risen, as their father always promised. The hall was normal alight with candles, the great hearth where massive logs would crackle and pop from the flames upon them. It would give the hall a warm orange glow; making it seem more welcoming and safe. Now, it seemed harsh and imposing for the lack of color. They only color in the room was their mother's brilliant red hair, that in this light, looked darker and almost hard to see. That was something neither of the children appreciated. Their parents sat on the dais in front of the large hearth which held no wood or flames this morning, there was no need; the sun was up and warming the keep with its rays. Though, a southern people wouldn't consider the temperature warm, especially for the snow that was still falling outside. They were behind a long oaken table. The wood was sanded smooth, cravings depicted their house sigil, the Crescent Moon. The same crescent moon was stitched finely into the large silver and black banners that hung on either side of the hearth.

The morning sun peeking through the high windows cast what wasn't lit by the beams into dark shadows. Appropriate actually, this was the Shadow House after all.

Clara and Jonah stood together in front of them, Jonah making it a point to hold Clara's hand, which, of course, only made Clara more nervous. She swallowed and Jonah squeezed her hand. "Jonah, Clara." Their father said with a nod, his unusually light eye finding both of them seemingly at the same time. They bowed and curtseyed respectively. "Good Morning, Father, Good Morning Mother." Clara said softly. Father, Mother" Jonah said with an attitude in his tone that it seemed, at least to Clara that they all noticed but otherwise ignored. Their mother merely smiled, though it didn't reach her eyes.

"Clara, How are you feeling?"Lord Ramsey asked, looking at her. She smiled in a similar way that her mother had. "Well, Father." She said and he nodded. "anymore coughing fits, and sleeping episodes?" He asked and she shook her head. "No, Father," she said with a smile. She had the night before last but none last night. That was something.
She watched her father's face, their father rarely allowed his thoughts to be betrayed by his face but Clara had learned to read the small things. It wasn't all she really had to do while laying in bed, only seeing people when they chose to visit. She had time to study their faces, the small things they did when they spoke to her, whether or not they were lying to her. So she knew by the small nod and the upward twitch of her father's eyebrow that he was glad to hear this and that would come into play later.
"Good." Was all he said on the subject before his eyes turned to the both of them.

"We received a raven from Blackvale." He began and Jonah's hand twitched, closing her fingers. Clara didn't hide her frown but she didn't turn it to her brother, but she knew, he knew what was coming next.

"The King has requested our presence for the summer, we will be staying in Blackvale for the entirety of it." He went on and Clara would have smiled had it not been for Jonah's tension. She could feel the heat radiating from him. "A whole Summer in Blackvale?" She asked and her father nodded. Clara looked at her brother finally, offering a smile. "Isn't that exciting, Pup?" She urged and he seemed to not hear her at first, before turning to her. He gave a smirk that was more of a twitch but that was all. He said nothing. That was very uncharacteristic of him. He always had a lot of say, good or bad. He was waiting for something. She turned to her father then. "Is that all, Father?" She urged and he shot a look to Jonah that made her nervous and the nervousness continued when he turned back at her. "We will not be the other family to attend, The Thornes, The Chaimbers, The Cavaliers, The Thatchers, The Davernys and the Greysons, all will be there as well." He said and Clara gapped. "My" She breathed and she looked at her brother who while still tense, seemed to finally hear news he hadn't heard before.

"What for, Father?"

"Yes, Father, tell us, What for." Jonah finally spoke and it caused Clara to whip her head his direction. Jonah never used that tone with anyone, especially not Father. "Magnus." Their mother hissed while their father cocked his head threateningly all while Clara looked at her family as if they'd all changed colors. "What is going on?" She blurted.

"They are sending you there to be paraded in front of the Prince, in hopes that you will be chosen by him, marry him and produce him an heir, that is what this invitation is all about," Jonah said, glaring daggers their father and Clara blinked. "Wh-what?"
"Mangus Jonah Allyrion, that is quite enough," Their mother barked from across the room, her voice echoing in the otherwise empty hall. Jonah looked as if he were about to speak but snapped his mouth shut at her tone. Clara was still reeling from the news.
"Is this true, Father?" she asked and as per usual, he merely nodded.
"Not in so many words." Their mother corrected. "But yes, that is why we were invited, for you to be a potential wife for the Prince."
Clara sighed heavily, she knew this day was coming, her mother had been preparing her for such a thing but now that it was here, her stomach turned to knots.

"So nevermind what Clara wants?" Jonah spoke up again, his tone cooler this time. "That is not something a Lady need worry about." their mother said though they all could hear the disgust in her tone. Jonah jerked his head back as if she'd stuck him. "Frozen Hell, you really believe that don't you?" He said shocked. "Jonah." Their father said warningly. Father rarely disciplined them, unless they upset or somehow disrespected their mother. Jonah was getting dangerously close to the latter.

"Father, you can't allow this to happen? Clara's a child, and we don't even know what he'll be like.." Jonah said gesturing to Clara making her feel small. Jonah was always wildly protective of her. He is a wolf and she is his pack, but he often made the mistake of underestimating her.
"You were kind to mother, you love Mother but you two are the exception, not the rule." Jonah went on and Clara closed her eyes. "I am not a child," she said but he voice was too small and Jonah went on. "What if he hurts her? What then? Dear Ancestors, if he chooses her and then hurts her, there will be nothing we can do to stop him, to protect her. Mother, you made me promise to look out for her, Father you told me to be a man of my words, so I cannot sit by and watch as-"
"I'm not a child, Jonah!" Clara shouted, stopping Jonah dead. He turned to her wild-eyed.
"Do you think me so weak, Brother? "
Jonah shook his head, rolling his eyes. "That's not what I meant." He sighed, and out of the corner of her eye, Clara saw her father waved down her mother as if to tell her to let them handle this.
"What do you mean then, Jonah? You called me a child."
"You're young."
"There is a difference, Jonah.."
"Perhaps, but you're still green, Clara, you aren't ready for court life,"
Clara narrowed her eyes, a hand on her hip. "And how do you suppose that I get ready, Jonah. hm?" She cocked her head and Jonah was silent. "You say you care about what I want but you haven't bothered to ask my opinion, either."She waited for his argument but he had none and she knew it.

Sure, she wasn't ready, not even close but she wasn't a child, and she did not wish to be treated like one. She looked at their parents, there was a light in her father's eyes that registered as pride and there was something in her mother's eyes that registered as fear?

"We do we depart, Father?"
"First thing Tomorrow. Are you sure about this, Clara? You know I would not put you in any danger-" He shot a look to Jonah before continuing "-Rhaegar is a good man but you need not win his favor if you do not wish to, there will be plenty of other women there who want his hand."
Clara hadn't thought about it actually, she knew of Rhaegar but knew nothing of him. Would she want to marry a man she never met? It wasn't as if she'd just be handed off to him. He would be given a choose among many -likely more healthy women- sand if she did like him enough then she would decide.
"I will decide on my own and I will let you know, we have to see the bridge before we cross it, yes?" She said and her father smiled then. "Yes."
"I will prepare then," She said they were dismissed. Jonah said nothing to her that entire morning.
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Later that night as they were preparing for the journey, Jonah felt bad. He knew he was wrong, he shouted at his mother, upset his sister, all in the name of protecting her. He still felt wrong about this whole thing but she was right. She wasn't a child anymore and while he would protect her forever. He couldn't. She had to make her own choices; that was what he wanted after all. He made his way to her chamber, all dressed in riding gear, his sword sheathed at his side, and knocked lightly. "Come" she called and he entered, his head down."Oh, Jon." she said and he knew she was still upset with him but didn't completely hate him. He sighed before he began." Clara...I'm sorry." He said. "I didn't mean to upset you, or disrespect you, I look at you, and I remember how things were and I just-" He looked down at his feet, rubbing the back of his head."It's alright, Pup." She said and he looked up at her. Pup, that was a good sign. "You meant well, but you've got to understand, I'm not that child anymore, you don't have to worry for me."
"you sleep walk and have coughing fits, yes I do."She smiled. "you know what I mean." She said and walked up to him, she placed her hands on his shoulders and sighed. "Mother has been preparing me for this day for a long time, I knew it was coming, and yes, I'm scared but I will be fine, I can handle to besides..." she smiled up at him taking his face in either hand and lowered it to her lips. "I know I have you to look out for me if something does go wrong." She said and smiled up at him, releasing him He nodded. [color=#E80000]"Alright, Songbird, but if something goes wrong, try not to do anything that will get me hanged or beheaded, I will take it very personally if you do." He aid and she chuckled and shoved him playfully. "Go, we must get ready."
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Present Day
"Ready, Songbird?" Jonah whispered down at her. Clara looked up at him, a nod as they were ushered into the Black Keep, the ballroom was lavish and as daunting as she imagined. She took a breath with normal was constricting due to her illness, she was much more constricted by the corset she wore. It was in the south style so most of her is showing much more of her then even she saw on a regular basis. "Careful, that thing you're wrapped up in will pop. It'll make a terrible impression on the royal family or a good one if you're trying to get the Prince's attention " Jonah grinned wolfishly. Clara scrunched up her nose. her corset was mighty tight, and she was wearing a lot less than she had been used to now that they were in the Southlands. She'd never been this far south before. The Sun felt different down here and she already missed the snow but then again, she was Winter's Child, she preferred the cold.

Clara watched as the Graysons and then the Chaimbers were introduced while Jonah had been not so casually staring the line of yellow-haired women. "Do you know them?" Clara whispered. Jonah rose his brows. "Huh?" He asked, finally looking in her direction. ""The Princes and the Princess? Do you know them?"she asked again and Jonah shrugged a shoulder, casting his gaze abut the "I sort of remember Rhaegar, we met when I was really small. I've seen Brom a few times with Father but I don't know him well but the Princess...I have never seen her before, I look forward to meeting her.." he said and Clara closed her eyes to avoid rolling them. Her brother was a flirt, and it was hard to get his eyes off on any woman that was his pray. Luckily for them, he was a good man otherwise, she'd have more nieces and nephews than she knew what to do with."We are supposed to be here for me, Pup."
"We are, we are." He said and patted her shoulder. "Surely the Princess will need something to do while her brother courts you all, no?"
"If it helps you sleep at night, Brother."
"With any luck, I'll be much too busy." He said with a wolfish grin and Clara closed a hand over her face. She asked for that, she really did.

Next, it was their turn to be presented to the royal family and Jonah straightened himself up.

"May I present to you, The noble House Allyrion. Lord Ramsey and Lady Charlotte." The herald began Their mother and father bowed respectfully. "And their children, Lord Magnus ." He said and Jonah seemed to want to wince but didn't. He merely smiled and bowed grandly to the King and Queen. Clara knew he didn't like being called by that name, he hadn't felt like he earned it yet, and being called that name in front of his namesake would daunting. Of course, he didn't tell her this nor would he but she could read him too well. "Lady Clara." Clara stepped up and curtseyed. "You're Graces" before stepping aside for the next family.
Suddenly, she felt it again. That static, sending a shock up her spine. The storm was still on its way and it was hit here.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Vivienne Chaimbers
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LARA CAVALIER
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Eldest Child | The White Frog, Swan Princess
#A8C5EA | Outfit


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The expression is always the hardest part, Lara consoled herself as she unpicked the doll's smile for the third time with raw fingers. The rest of her handiwork was perfect – an ideal girl with golden hair who stood composed in a pretty dress – but when it came to a believable smile Lara's ability always fell short. She was ready to give up. She took no enjoyment in sewing nor in projecting herself onto childish playthings, despite having a knack for both. Now that she'd pulled out of her trance, she ran her tongue over her bottom lip and discovered it to be swollen from being absent-mindedly sucked on while she worked. There was without a doubt lipstick coating her teeth at this point.

The sweltering heat was getting to her, her eyes drooping and head getting heavy with dreams of a cool breeze or spring. She knew that her legs were dripping with sweat beneath her ridiculous skirts. How long had she been in this carriage for? She shut her eyes and rested the back of her head against the seat, almost falling asleep to the lull of the wheels and the fragments of a conversation between her father and the guard being held on horseback outside. She let out a silent sigh and rested the faceless doll on her poofy lap when a sharp ahem caught her attention. She squinted open her eyes to meet the disapproving scowl of her mother, The Beak of the Marsh. Now, Lara was very well aware that 'marsh' was just another fancy name for swamp and she knew that would be no secret to any of the other nobles either. Surely, the Cavaliers of Swampland were going to be brought up and chuckled about at least once in dinner conversation by someone she was obligated to dance with. Actually, if she considered that an embarrassment, perhaps she should have been more worried about the story surrounding her last attempted marriage circling the halls of the Black Keep. Oh, she could already hear the squire announcing their arrival and the whispers of smirking noblemen and women with nothing better to do than sit and preen each other's feathers.


β€œAHEM.” Lara snapped her attention back to the calculative gaze of her mother. β€œSit up straight, you'll flatten your hair.” Lady Beatrice scolded, then narrowed her green eyes and leaned forward to inspect her daughter, β€œNot that you've done anything to deserve me worrying for it. Here,” her hands attacked her stunning updo and pulled away two golden pins with clusters of creamy white pearls garnishing their tips. Lara watched her hands work as they twisted the platinum curls that framed her face and pinned them back, retrieving new pins from her own hair until Lara's was completely done up and Beatrice's red waves were scraping past her shoulders. Beatrice broke into an earnest smile as she fell back to admire her work, clapping her weathered hands together. No matter how much powder she dusted her skin with, the veins and swollen joints on her fingers denied her ignorance of her age. β€œThere we go. See how much nicer that is? It looks like you put in an effort for them.” Lara touched her hair self-consciously and frowned.

β€œSmile!” Beatrice demanded jovially and stretched her daughter's powdered cheeks, β€œYou only get an opportunity like this once. All you have to do is dance and laugh and curtsey and you'll blow them all away. Do you understand how lucky you are to meet your to-be husband so long before you are to be wed?”

Lara gave her mother a sympathetic look, knowing that she, like many others, had met her father on the same day as their marriage... for better or for worse. β€œMother, are you glad that you married Father?”

β€œThe Gods have my gratitude,” Beatrice half-lied. Even Lara could tell that it was more complicated than that. β€œYour Father is a good man. With him, I have birthed many beautiful children.” She smiled endearingly at Lara and the young woman smiled back hopefully. β€œBut I will not flatter you for any longer. I know you only mean to distract me.”

β€œThat was not my intention at all!” Lara insisted hurriedly, β€œI was only wondering whether that nobleman was a good man, like Father is. Perhaps I should apologise in person for what happened. We could visit on our -”

β€œYou're two years too late,” Beatrice warned. β€œI cannot believe I'm saying this, but your rebellion blossomed into this opportunity and we should all be glad. You will not weasel your way out of this, do you understand me? The only way to avoid this was to marry that man on that day.”

β€œHow was I supposed to know this disaster was going to happen?” Lara grumbled under her breath childishly and leaned back.

β€œSit up, think of your hair! This is an opportunity, not a disaster and you should be grateful. Nobody knew, Lara Lee. We all thought you had thrown away your future. It’s a miracle that we even received an invitation. Now, must you argue? Your voice is giving me a headache. Go back to sewing, your doll is missing its smile.” Lara dipped her head down and picked up her needle and thread, not wanting to upset her mother further. Beatrice watched her with pursed lips before deciding to enforce her authority one step more. β€œYou do understand what I am saying, Lara Lee? That to deserve a King -”

β€œI must act like a Queen, I know.” Lara finished sullenly. Her knees shifted uncomfortably and she tried to find them under her mound of skirts, but all she found was her faceless doll. A satisfied smile crept across Beatrice's face.

β€œAnd from what I can see, my little girl isn't holding her head like it balances a crown,” she cooed and tilted her child's chin up. The wavering strength in Lara's brown eyes displeased her and she dug her thumbnail into the skin beneath her swollen lip, β€œDon't let the crown fall.”

Lara only nodded, her own face betraying her by clearly displaying how terrified she was made by this entire ordeal. The expression, after all, was the hardest part. The conversation continued as Lady Beatrice forced Lara to recite the lines she had to say when meeting with the King and Queen and reminded her of the houses she was allowed to converse with, and the characters that she would be flayed for approaching. When the ride came to an end, the lecturing did not. As Lara hitched up her masses of skirts and stepped out of the carriage she felt that her face was about to melt off from boredom. She slipped before she made it to the ground and was immediately assisted by rough hands.

β€œYour feet asleep, Frog?” Lara looked up at the serious face of her father. She immediately wrapped him into a hug and hit one foot against the ground in an attempt to wake it.

β€œI'm afraid I'm not a very good frog today.” There was bitterness in those words and James understood why.

β€œIt's a long journey,” he said apologetically and returned her hug, rocking her like a child. β€œThat's not over yet. You should have come outside to join me for a ride. You would enjoy the landscape."

"Ha! Me, on a ho-" As if on cue, a loud snort interrupted Lara's indignant reply and she yelped and clutched to her father like a lifeline. She felt hot air on the back of her neck and whimpered, scooting around behind him to glare at the creature from a safe distance.

"Your desire for freedom is no rival to your fear," James ridiculed and scratched his stallion behind the ears. Lara glanced up at the horse's soulless, buggy eyes and mimicked it by flaring her nostrils. "It bothers me, how my daring frog can look down at the world from the tallest tree... yet succumb to tears when on top of a horse."

"I am not crying!" she shot, I won't cry, I was a child then! I have the good sense to not get on one, now!" The horse whinnied and Lara almost looked apologetic. "Please just... send it away. Now. Please, before I hurt its feelings further."

"Alright, Froggy." James grunted. "Fiore, there. Tch tch." The horse walked over to the Castillon staff tasked with handling it. James shook his head with a sigh at his daughter's erratic behaviour then whispered, "Chin up. Your Mother's coming."

β€œNo, no.” Beatrice bustled over and pried the father and daughter apart. β€œDid I hear frog? There will be no frogs here, only swans.”

β€œShall I send her back home, then?” James made a gesture telling Lara to slip away and turned to his wife with a frown, β€œWhen will you admit that our daughter is a frog?”

Lara stifled laughter and shuffled around the back of the carriage while her parents argued whether she was a frog or a swan. Even a little disagreement like that could be blown out of proportion and she didn't like to stick around when things got heavy. From there she could still hear her parents bickering and cradled her naked arms, sighing. She was already beginning to feel lonely. For someone who appreciated solitude as much as herself, it was odd that the thought of her siblings being so far away from her made her feel stripped and vulnerable.

"Lady Lara," one of the Cavalier guardsmen addressed her and she readjusted her features as quickly as she could - not quick enough, he saw her frown. She turned to him and her eyes immediately lightened with joy at what he held in his hands. A little pink nose squeezed through the bars of a cage, sniffing the air excitedly as it sensed the presence of its mother.

"Delilah!" Lara moved forward in a rush, accidentally treading on her skirt and slipping a little before swooping in and retrieving the fat white rabbit from its prison. She nuzzled her fur without care for the make up stains she was leaving on the creature and scratched behind her long ears, the spell of loneliness and vulnerability inside of her lifted. After calming down from their reunion she peered at the guardsman through one eye and pulled her face away from her rabbit to flash him a huge grin. "Sorry that I asked this of you. Delilah is a Cavalier too, just... not what you expected to be guarding? I hope she wasn't trouble." That was a lie. She was yearning to hear of any sort of mishap.

"There was no trouble, my Lady." The guardsmen said and bowed.

"Are you sure? Not even a fox that gave you the evil eye or a necklace she yanked from a lady's neck?"

"... No, I don't recall anythi -"

"If you say so." Lara twisted on her heels with Delilah cradled in her arms and began to trot back to her parents, ignoring the guard asking to put the rabbit back into the cage. "Don't worry, Lilah. I'm sure he'll notice the hole you chewed through his trousers soon." She reassured the rabbit. When Lara returned she found Lord and Lady Swan to be in the exact same argument she left them in. "Where is it written that I can't be the princess and the frog?" She piped up as she hopped between them. Lady Beatrice groaned and spun away while Lord James scratched Delilah's head and made "chu" noises.

"Lara Lee, please realise that your father is insulting you - are you holding a rabbit?"

"It can't be helped," she claimed, "Magnolia insisted that I take her with me and now, Delilah tires of cages. I won't force her to do anything against her will." Because I'm a good mother. She thought bitterly and watched her mother's lips tighten. James was quick to separate them.

"I think it's time we go in," he said briskly, "Lara, please put the rabbit away. We don't want to make any unsavoury first impressions." Lara nodded and went to find the cage, which she discovered not with the guard but with a servant of the Black Keep. She asked him to take her to her room for the time being and feed her before coming back to her parents while attempting to rub off the dirty rabbit paw print on her bust. She forced a smile and a nod and her parents reached out to put a hand on each of her shoulders before they began to ascend the stairs to the castle.

~~~

Upon taking one step inside Lara was assaulted by what she felt to be a million reflections of herself, all on shiny metallic surfaces. This was the grandest grand foyer she had ever seen, large and filled to the brim with expense over expense. A part of her was impressed and wanted to run around touching everything, but a bigger part was regretful the children weren't there to see the castle. They would have loved it. A servant came to speak to them and Lara's eyes continued to scan everything in sight during his small rehearsed greeting.

She raised her brow as she passed a particularly polished display she could see herself clearly reflected on in full. At least, the creature that followed her movements - instead of a frog an unfamiliar "Princess" blinked right back at her. The illusion was broken when she grinned and she rubbed furiously at the pink wax speckling her teeth. She dismissed her reflection with a wave like it would go away then smiled at the thought of something humorous. Delilah was going to dig into this goldmine like a drunkard diving into a sea of whiskey. Beatrice shushed her quiet giggle, glancing in her direction. Her eyes widened in alarm when she noticed the faded dirt on Lara's chest. Lara ducked her head down in guilt then distracted herself with the magnificent ballroom. She couldn't help but feel just a little bit excited as she looked around at who else had arrived. The Allyrions had just been introduced before them, their son looking just like the wolf he was spoken to be and their young daughter - just older than Penelope - looking more like a big-eyed doe than a fierce predator. Lara looked to the others, not allowing herself to give the males thought and instead fixating herself on the ladies of the court. Her face paled as she stared at the back of the bewitching woman in the midnight gown, sunk when she spotted the blonde beauty in pale blue then turned grey as she zoned in on the three fair blonde sisters. Each Noblewoman held their own unique and intriguing air, one of them - the woman in the pink dress - seeming to have something particularly dangerous lingering in her smile. Dangerous meaning tempting. Was it an unspoken rule that all nobility must be gorgeous? With which of her lacking charms was she supposed to compete against these women with? Now she was getting annoyed with herself. She didn't need beauty or any pretty, witty, fluttery words! If she could tackle two fighting hounds, why not a romantic rival? No, not romantic. Political opponent. Not even that. Prince bandit. That sounded better. If only to make her day a little brighter, it was all she could ask - all she could pray - that that nobleman had already married and sunk to the bottom of the ocean on his honeymoon voyage. Perhaps she was being too morbid in her wishes.


"I present the noble house of Cavalier. Lord James and Lady Beatrice, escorting their eldest daughter, Lady Lara Lee."

Lara glanced up from her daydreams with a snap. She gave her parents a signal for help with her eyes that was returned by an urging look. She held her breath and made sure to not let the crown fall as she stepped forth to sink into a very low, respectful curtsey. She was not excited to meet the King, she was not excited to meet the King, no, she was not excited... She didn't dare look up at the two intimidating and (secretly) awe-inspiring figures before her.

"Your Majesties," she said softly, but not quietly. "The Gods have my gratitude." Such a simple set of words that took forever to come out right in practise. In truth her mother had planned a page long monologue about how brave the King was and how beautiful the Queen was but while standing in front of everyone like this... she couldn't. She couldn't find it within herself to spill out such pretentious jargon with everyone watching, it felt too much like a performance. She stood out of her curtsey and moved back to her parents who gave her small nods of approval then walked with her to edge of the room to await the next attendants. Lara had a violent vision of the chandelier above her falling down and crushing her head right then and there and spent a moment debating whether it was a nightmare or fantasy. As unusual as it was for her... she was in a bloody bad mood, and as per usual... she was terrible at hiding it.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne
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AVERY THATCHER
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Eldest Son | The Armadillo
#FF4500 | Outfit
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ELLIOT THATCHER
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Youngest Son | The Casanova
#551A8B | Outfit
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ILENE THATCHER
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Only Daughter | The Thorny Rose
#CD1076 | Outfit

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"Oh come on, you can do better than that," Avery grinned at his younger brother, lowering the large shield with the family armadillo crest adorning the front. "Where was the soul in that swing? The fight?"

"Oh shut up or it'll be your soul floating about," Elliot grumbled as he recovered from the bounce his swing had produced when it collided with Avery's shield. Elliot rolled his shoulders and twirled his swords in his hands as he got back into a crouching position as he and Avery circled each other.

"You'll have to practice more for that feat. At this rate you wouldn't be able to slaughter a slug," Avery taunted, his blue eyes alight with a teasing glint. Elliot gave a war cry as he rushed forward, right sword swinging, forcing Avery to bring his shield up and step back as Elliot twirled with the force to bring his left sword down at Avery's shoulder which Avery parried only to get a kick. Avery stumbled back from the kick and barely brought his shield up to block the two sword coming down from above. Avery flicked his own sword out to swat Elliot's ankles with the flat of his blade. "Better! But I still got you. In a real fight I would have slashed your ankles and you would be downed."

"If you didn't have that shield to hide behind I would have gotten you," Elliot growled as he pulled back to get some distance.

"Most will fight with shields. You need to find a way to get beneath them or you'll never win."

"Oh honestly, don't you two ever get bored of playing with your swords?" Ilene grumbled from where she sat beneath a shaded tree. Ilene pulled at one of her threads in her needle work as she fixed one of Avery's shirts. Her blond hair was down today, cascading down around her face and shoulders as she worked.

Elliot couldn't help the grin playing on his lips. "No, it is actually quite fun to play with my sword. Better yet with another slowly rolling over it."

Ilene looked up at her younger sibling aghast. "Elliot! Must you always interject with such lewd imagery?

"You started it," Elliot laughed.

Avery rolled his eyes at his siblings. Realizing he'd lost Elliots attention and would no doubt not get any real sword training from the man, he put his sword away and hoisted the shield on his back. Avery ran a hand through his own blond locks with a sigh. "I guess we are done for the day. I am going to go into the field. Farmer Padrick asked for some assistance in the cornfield. Tell mother and father please."

"I am not your page. You can tell them yourself. I am going out now that we are done here," Elliot answered and put away his own swords.

"Damn it Elliot, I know very well where you are going. You are going to give Mam a heart attack at this rate. Leave that poor boy alone. He's the best stable hand we've got and you'll scare him off."

Elliot gave his brother a mock look of horror and pressed his hands against his chest as if he had been struck. "Brother! You make me out to be a monster! I am wounded! I merely offer him my affections!"

Ilene and Avery both gave each other a look before leveling their gazes at Elliot un-phased by the youngest's theatrics. Elliot gave a pout before he gave up the charade. He rested his hands on his hip. "Approval or not, I am going," Elliot announced as he turned away. Before either brother could leave, however, their mother's voice rang out over the garden, calling all three of them. The three siblings glanced at each other in a bit of worry and confusion. It wasn't often their mother called for all three of them at once. The immediate thought was that something grave had occurred. Elliot and Avery both helped their sister gather her sewing before the three of them hurried back to the manor where their mother was calling for them.

Lady Ophelia was yet beautiful in her old age, a testament to the beauty she had been. She had aged gracefully, the wrinkles barely tugging at her eyes and lips. Her skin was still fair like her daughter's though slightly roughened by her hard work. Her pale golden hair was beginning to grow in silvery and gave her an air of sophistication. Even her movements were yet graceful and enchanting. Ilene truly hoped that she too aged as well as her mother. It was easy to see where the Thatcher children had gotten their charm and beauty from. Ophelia held her head high and proud as she rested her warm eyes on each of her children.

"Oh, Avery, Elliot, you both are covered in dirt again. And look at the holes in your clothing! You make me and Ilene work just to mend your clothing," she chided lovingly. "Your sister is already mending clothes," she mused as she looked at what Ilene was holding.

"Sorry, Mam. We were training in the yard. Has somewhat happened? Is everything all right?" Avery asked her, concern playing on his handsome features.

"It is not trouble so don't worry yourself over it but we received a letter from our liege of the Black Keep your father and I would like to discuss with you."

"The Black Keep?"

It wasn't often their parents brought them into counsel after a letter. What was all of this about? Three three siblings glanced between each other before they followed their mother into the counsel room where their father was waiting for them. Just as their mother, Lord William was a handsome man in his aging. Though far more weather and stress worn, the lines of his face gave him a sort of stoic recognition. His good nature was easily seen in his deep blue eyes, shinning through the gruffness of his love of simplicity. Unlike most lords, he was happy with the simple pleasures, never over adorning his home with trinkets. Even the clothing he preferred was tailored to be far less rich and elaborate for his station. It was easy to see Avery took after that predilection. Lord William smiled as his wife took her place at his right hand and he looked over his children as he sat forward.

"As I am sure your mother has already explained, we just received a message from his Majesty and her Highness. They have invited us to stay for the summer in the Black Keep."

"Stay for the summer the Black Keep?" Ilene repeated in surprise. That was quite the honor but there had to be more to it then that. The king and queen would have no use for all of them to take up residence there for an entire summer.

"Is that wise? Who would watch over our lands? The people?" Avery interjected. "I could stay home and watch over everything. You both know I do not have the desire to play in court intrigue. There are far more important things to worry about here." Ah, the ever practical Avery. If he could, he'd avoid these political games as much as possible.

"We will have the men here protecting the residence. You don't need to worry about that, Son. Unfortunately, the three of you must attend," Lord William explained.

"You see, they are holding a ball and we are not the only nobility that will be attending. All of the families have been called upon," Lady Ophelia finished. The lord and lady let that settle on their children for a moment. Realization of what the ball really meant was quick to sour everyone's mood.

"So it is a marriage convention, with each of us a prize for the royalty?" Elliot mused sourly.

"You mean me and Avery," Ilene remarked to Elliot. "We are eldest and neither of us have married yet. The time is ticking," she finished dryly.

"All of us. They just said all of us. I am not exempt," Elliot sighed and crossed his arms.

"Regardless," Avery said with a wave to quite them both before they began to bicker, "We have to go. Do we have a choice in any of this?" Avery asked his parents. He personally had no desire to marry, princess or nobility, that would be nothing but a pretty face. He had other concerns.

"You do have a choice in a selection of a marriage partner. You and your brother mostly. Should the princes take an interest and pursue Ilene, we will attempt to pursue the arrangement." William answered sadly. "I am sorry my Starlit. I know your feelings about a proper husband but as a queen, you could do much. Other than that, you to will have a choice of your marriage though we do implore you to find someone to settle with. You are right in thinking that time is beginning to run thin. You've forced many suitors away." He hated to speak this way, especially to his daughter, but soon, no nobleman would ask for her hand, beautiful or not. Lord William then looked at Avery pointedly. Avery would know why. He had yet to produce an heir and considering Elliot's odd... fancy, he did not expect to see one from him any time soon.

"I know father. I am sorry for making your life so much harder. I will keep your words and duty in mind, but I will not change myself either; not for any man, may it even be the king himself," she answered. The suitors would have to accept her as she was, not a pretty picture of what they expected.

"Of course my dear. I would not ask for you to change yourself. I want you to be happy to," her father said.

"When will be leaving?" Avery asked sullenly.

"Tomorrow," Ophelia answered. "Finish the tasks you have for the day and prepare to ride."
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Finally, they were nearing the castle. Avery could see it rising up like the looming bars of a cage. He wished this summer was already over and that they were riding on their way home, not towards this dreaded place. The castle itself looked mesmerizing but the entire trip was colored by the fact that he would more than likely have to come out of this with a marriage proposal. He had had no intention of ever being married but he knew that would break his parents hearts. He needed an heir though he did not want to go through with this in the least bit. Avery pulled the rein's of his grey stallion to get it to stop and stood up in the saddle measuring the time. They would be at the gates in about half an hour. He heard a horse neighing behind him and turned to see his brother riding up beside him. Elliot at least was enjoying the horse ride. He kept straying off from the main road to explore at a safe distance.

Elliot looked like quite the lord with his rich clothing fashioned in the green and rusty red of their house. The Blazon stood out on his chest like a beacon. Avery himself had been forced into a fashionable attire least he be confused with a peasant though they were highly uncomfortable clothing. He felt like a peacock to be gawked at, what with the hot layers covering his skin. He even had a cape draped over his shoulders in the rich green his sister had crafted. It was connected to his attire with the golden clasp of the armadillo holding the evergreen leaves. Avery thought he looked absolutely ridiculous.

"Don't look so sour, Avery. You'r face will freeze that way. There isn't much going for you but your face, so don't screw it up," Elliot teased.

"Ease for you to say. I don't want to be here."

"Avery, I know you are looking at this through the duty lens but there is more to it then that. Look at it this way. Sure we are being paraded around like show ponies, but look where we are. We are at the Black Keep. We don't often come here or leave our territory. Don't let one part of it sour the rest of your mood. Take the time to enjoy yourself a little bit. You'll be better off."

Avery looked over at Elliot with an arched brow as he studied his brother. Elliot arched his own brow then. "What? Why are you staring at me?"

"Nothing. Just surprised you can say something intelligent and supporting."

Elliot scoffed and punched him in the arm. "I might as well not say anything at all if my words are so squandered," Elliot said with a proud toss of his head.

"You really are such a drama queen" Avery chuckled.

"Drama king. But look, I've made you laugh," Elliot answered with a mischievous grin. "My work here is done. You scowling and groaning... it doesn't suit you so put a smile on your face. Come on."

Avery was smiling as he shook his head and followed his brother back to the carriage. The two of them lined up with it and Avery knocked on the wall to draw someone's attention from inside. Ilene parted the curtains to look out at her brothers. "We'll be there shortly. he announced.

"All right. Thank you," she answered.

Within moment, their carriage arrived and both boys dismounted and handed their horses off to the stable hand. Elliot came around to the carriage door and stood aside as his father stepped down with a thank you who in turn helped his mother down. Elliot moved forward to offer his arm to Ilene then. Ilene carefully stepped out so she wouldn't trip on her dress. It was the same lush green as Avery's cloak with delicate silver and red laces and designs down the front and upon the little jacket she sported to cover her back. Her golden hair was done up extravagantly with little pink blossoms woven throughout. From it, some of her hair cascaded down her shoulder in rivulets to frame her face. An emerald necklace hugged her throat and she fussed with it to make sure it sat straight.

"You look beautiful, Ilene."

"Thank you, Avery. You should wear clothing like this more often. It suits you. And you to, Elliot."

Avery shook his head amused but Elliot preened like a bird and adjusted his shirt. Then it was time to head inside. Lord William escorted Ophelia first before Avery led Ilene with Elliot at the rear.

"Introducing Lord and Lady of the South, William and Ophelia Thatcher with their children Avery, Ilene, and Elliot Thatcher."

The family gave their bows and sweet words then before moving to stand farther away and waited.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne
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#, as written by mjolnir
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RHAEGAR CASTILLON
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Heir to Blackvale | The Falcon
#B70909 | Outfit
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BROM CASTILLON
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Prince | The Peacock
#061B62 | Outfit
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SYLAS THORNE
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Heir to Dark Wood | The Viper
#999999 | Outfit
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GWENDOLYNN CASTILLON
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Princess | The Little Dove
#F56E6F | Outfit


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Sylas bowed beside his sister while she curtsied towards the King and Queen. As he did, his gaze never left the Queen Guinevere who seemed to be intently watching him with an animalistic hunger. He quirked a brow as a stood upright, adjusting his attire as he glanced away. Although the gaze was direct and a bit unnerving, he held his composure and if anything stood tall and strong.

After the King and Queen moved on to greet the next family, Sylas stood elegant and tall as his mother held his arm. His gaze was drown towards his sister when he heard her voice, β€œExcuse me mother, for I must steal by brother. I feel that having some alcohol in my system may make the socializing a tad less painful.”

He smiled towards his mother as she adjusted part of his suit and then a bit of Sylva’s hair. β€œI would say behave, but where is the fun in that.” She then gave him a more serious look which garnered his full attention. β€œMake sure she doesn't get too drunk. Remember what happened that one New Years eve?”

Sylas looked between his mother and Sylva, a slight smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. β€œYes, of course mother.”

β€œYes yes, I accidentally burnt down half the stables. Don’t worry mother. He will take care of me, he always does.”

Sylva slid her arm through his and began to guide him away. He glanced back over his shoulder towards his mother before they were too far away, β€œIt’s my turn to get drunk anyways.” He winked towards Desdemona who chuckled at him before waving them off.

When they reached the table that was worked by a young servant girl, Sylas smiled towards the girl while giving a sly wink. He grabbed himself and his sister a glass of champagne before leading her over towards the large windows that lead out to the gardens. He watched the King and Queen greet each family as he sipped his champagne. When he noticed the mannerisms in the King shift at the presence of the Graysons, he quirked a brow, leaning in towards his sister slightly. β€œNow what could have the mighty Magnus so tense, I wonder?”

As more families filed into the ballroom Sylas felt like the viper in the brush patiently watching as all the field mice scurry around him. He was ready to pounce. Every move, every suggestive glance and translative body gesture had him eager to attack. But all the exterior showed was a calm, cool and collected young man. Refined, and elegant, everything a young lord should be and everything young women swooned over. He was going to give the Prince’s a run for their money. Seduce and destroy every woman just to watch the Blackvale crumble.

His train of thought was disrupted when Maxwell moved before him, bowing in greeting. β€œMy Lord.”

β€œAh. Maxwell. This is my lovely sister Sylva.” Sylas motioned to his sister.

β€œA pleasure my Lady.” Maxwell bowed in her direction. Sylas then motioned for the young man to come closure and keep to hushed tones. β€œI have taken care of your rooms, my Lord. The adjacent chambers have a shared door so that you make travel between the two without notice.”

Sylas reached into his pocket pulling out a couple more gold coins, slipping them into Maxwell’s pocket. β€œThat’s a good man. Now…” He took a step closer to the servant, leaning in to whisper in his ear. β€œWho is your allegiance to?”

β€œYou my Lord.”

β€œGood man. I’d like you to keep your ears open. Anything and everything you hear you report to me… The more useful, the more gold for you. As long as you’re loyal to me, you’ll never want for anything ever again in your life.” Sylas’ grasp on Maxwell’s shoulder tightened, not enough to cause pain but enough to send a message. β€œIf you betray me, the King will wake up to your head on his breakfast tray.”

***

Gwendolynn sat at a window seat in the study, resting her chin upon her arms on the windowsill as she watched the families arrive. β€œThe Davernys… That’s all seven.”

Rhaegar stood behind her with his right arm raised, resting against the wall as he too watched the arrivals. β€œDo you think it was intentional for it to be exactly ten ladies and ten gentleman?” More of a rhetorical question that literal. Of course, it was intentional. Most likely every Lord and Lady was hoping for their child to make a smart match during their stay here. And a majority of them would be pushing their children at them… Him.

Gwen slowly reached behind her to grab Rhaegar’s hand in hers while she looked over her shoulder towards Brom. β€œThis… is our last summer together.”

The comment caused Brom to stop his mindless scanning of the numerous books in the room to look towards his sister. He wouldn’t admit it out loud but a lump formed in his throat. The thought hadn’t crossed his mind. Him and his siblings haven’t been apart for more than a month but now… This summer was going to take at least Gwen to the opposite side of the nation.

Rhaegar gently squeezed Gwen’s hand while Brom walked over to her, and place a kiss on her forehead. He remained silent as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders and she wrested her head against his side.

They remained silent. They hoped maybe if they never let go then no one could tear them apart. A trio forced to separate because of ridiculous societal norms and laws. It took everything they had not to cry or run away. It was their duty… A horrible responsibility.

The knock on the door hit them all like a dagger in the back. Their grips on each other tightened, but they did not move. After a moment without an answer, the servant slowly opened the door. β€œYour Graces… Your mother has asked me to fetch you.”

Gwen took a deep breath before she finally moved to her feet, exchanging a look between her older brothers. They all we scared and they knew it. They didn’t have to say anything to know. The one thing they knew best was each other.

β€œCome here,” Brom whispered before pulling them in an embrace. He patted his brother’s back while pressing his forehead against Rhaegar’s. His other arm held Gwen close, her forehead resting against the twins’ jaws.

β€œI’m sorry…” The servant spoke up again. β€œBut your mother implores. If you do not come, I’ll be the one to pay.”

Rhaegar pulled his siblings in tighter for one last embrace before whispering to them, β€œNo matter what, we have each other. Do not settle for anyone short of amazing… If we have to run away and live as paupers to be happy, then so be it.” He leaned in pressing his lips to Gwen’s forehead while using his hand to rustle Brom’s hair. He then nodded his head towards the servant, β€œApologies. I do not want you to suffer on our account.”

As they walked down the hall towards the ballroom they recited the names of the different Lords and Ladies that will be present. Their mother made sure they knew who was who. Royalty should know their people. Of course Rhaegar and Gwendolynn had the names straight weeks ago while Brom was lucky if he could guess how many children each family had.

They neared the large doors at the top of the grand staircase and while Rhaegar and Brom continued forward, Gwen froze in her tracks. It wasn’t until the servant had his hands on the door that the twins turned around looking for her. β€œβ€¦I can’t do this.”

The brothers both held out their arms to her while Rhaegar nods his head towards the door, β€œWe’re right here with you.”

β€œYeah and if you fall we’ll be the first to laugh.” Rhaegar smacked Brom in the chest, β€œOw.”

Just as Brom went to smack the crown right off of Rhaegar’s head, Gwen quickly ran up between the two and took their arms. β€œHow about you both stop fighting and escort me so I don’t fall in these ridiculous shoes.”

”Your Grace, the Queen wanted me to announce you one at a time and—”

β€œIt’s all of us or none of us.”

Brom rose his brows towards Rhaegar as they both chuckled at the ferocity in Gwen’s voice obvious from her nerves. β€œRemind me not to piss her off,” he whispered towards his brother as the servant pushed open the large doors.

Their escort stepped out of the shadows where two other men waited. With a motion of his hand the two men raised horns to their lips and blew a tune in sync to gain the company’s attention.

β€œSeriously? A horn?”

Rhaegar brought snorted back a laugh as he raised his hand to cover his mouth.

”My Lords. My Ladies.” As she the servant started, Gwen’s grasp on her brother’s arms tightened. ”It is my honor to present to you the royal children of the family Castillon.” He motioned towards them and with a deep breath they stepped forward. Gwen could have sworn she saw stem flood out of her mother’s ears at the sight of them entering together, arm in arm. ”Eldest son to the King and Queen, heir to the Blackvale Rhaegar, his twin brother, Prince and King’s Guard Brom and their sister Gwendolynn.”

The siblings walked down the stairs elegantly, arm in arm. Gwen tried to best not to trip but even when she thought she was losing her balance her brothers just held her steady. When they reached the ballroom floor Rhaegar and Brom bowed while Gwen curtsied. They walked through the crowd of people towards their parents. Gwen tried not to look at her feet as she walked, her nerves growing with each pair of eyes she saw fixed on her.

When they reached the King and Queen, Magnus stepped forward raising his hand in a way to ask the crowd to grow silent. β€œI would like to thank you all for making the long journey to the Black Keep. We are pleased to accept you all into our home for the summer. Although our time together is to hopefully make new alliances and marriages between our children it is also a chance for us all to get a chance to know each other and create new friendships where we previously wouldn’t have the opportunity. So I’d like you all to make yourselves at home and please do enjoy yourselves.”

King Magnus bows towards the crowd before motioning towards his wife. Queen Guinevere tried to seem as genuine as possible when addressing the crowd. β€œIn celebration of the beginning to this great summer and new friends, we invite all of our children in the dance of the Blackvale.” The Queen motioned towards the Castillon children beckoning them to take their place in the center of the dance floor. β€œThe dance is simple,” she holds out her hand towards her kids who lined up where Brom and Rhaegar were in one line and Gwen was on the other side. β€œOur strapping young men will line up across from the beautiful young ladies. They share a dance with the woman across from them and when the song changes you switch partners. The dance is over when you’ve danced with every young man or woman.”

Sylas’ attention shifted towards the main staircase when he heard the horns. He didn’t know if he was disappointed or what about the royal children looking fairly attractive and nice. Of course, nice means nothing, especially when Thornes are around.

Although he never of thought of anyone other than his sister in a none loathing matter, he was surprised at how agreeable the Castillon daughter was. He had heard rumors about her but words failed to compare. He wondered how many of the men in the room were going to fight at the chance for a chance at her hand. Her beauty no doubt would only make her more desirable partnered with her status as the Princess of the Blackvale. It only made the wheels in his head turn as he contemplated the demise he could cause.

He sighed when he heard the Queen’s announcement about some sort of Blackvale dance. Sylas held out his hand for his sister and guided her towards the forming lines of the young men and women around their age. Trying not to be blatantly obvious he made sure that after he helped his sister to her place that he did not stand across from her. Instead he moved into an empty place in the line that was across from the Daverny girl.

Underneath all of what she wore he imagined a beautiful woman was there. Sylas could respect that she wanted to be her own person and not conform to societal norms. But either way he would like nothing more than this dance to be over with.

Sylas bowed towards the woman before offering her his right hand while his left hand was behind his back, β€œMs. Daverny.”

Rhaegar made his place to the line while his hands nimbly worked on his cloak. He removed the cloak before handing it the closest servant. β€œThank you William.” He patted the lad’s shoulder before he resumed his place, adjusting his sleeves so he’d be more than capable of dancing.

He waited patiently, cupping his hands together before him as he watched the others line up. Before some of the more eager girls shuffled their way before him, he reached out his hand to grab Clara’s and guided her across from him. β€œApologizes, but I think I could handle this evening better having the first dance with a familiar face.”

Rhaegar knew Clara may not have remembered him because it’s been numerous years since they had seen each other. But he hoped she wouldn’t hate him for wanting to dance with the one person he knew.

Still being the gentleman he is, he bowed before her as the dance entails then offered her his hand. β€œOf course, you can always dance with someone else,” he said in a hushed tone. β€œBeing paraded around always makes me a little nervous.” He smiled towards Clara with his hand still held out palm up towards her for if she decided to accept the dance.

Brom was more hesitant to make his way to his spot in the line, moving to stand beside the dark and sinister looking Thorne son. He thought about talking to the guy maybe even talking about all the attractive women at the ball but the guy looked like he had a royal stick up his uptight ass.

Instead he waited until an intriguing young blonde beauty came to stand before him. Brom began to smirk as he glanced her over. Maybe this wouldn’t be all bad if he got the opportunity to meet numerous beautiful young women just waiting for a dashing young man like himself to sweep them off their feet.

β€œLady Vivienne… Right?” He held out his hand towards her as he bowed, but his gaze never left hers. His smirk only seeming to grow as he took in more and more of her beauty.

Gwen moved along with her brothers before she could even take a step she felt her mother’s hand on her shoulder. The Queen stepped up to whisper in her daughter’s ear, β€œDon’t you dare ask someone to dance.” Gwen looked out of the corner of her eye towards her mother. β€œYou are a lady,” the Queen grasped her shoulders tight, β€œladies do not do the asking. The gentlemen ask you to dance.”

After her mother let her go, Gwen slowly took her place in the line between two blonde girls. She gave them both her best attempt at a friendly smile as she waited. Her fingers toyed at the lace embroidery on her sleeves when a young blonde stepped in the line opposite her.

Feeling her mother’s gaze on the back of her head, Gwen took the skirt of her dress in her hands as she curtsied towards him.

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Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne
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JONATHAN CHAIMBERS
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Eldest Son | The Pawn
#9BC4E2 | Outfit
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FREDERICK CHAIMBERS
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Youngest Son | The Trickster
#96CDCD | Outfit
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VIVIENNE CHAIMBERS
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Only Daughter | The Weaver
#92CCA6 | Outfit


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Frederick made for the far wall, his intentions to grab as many flutes filled with champagne as he could and drink as much as he could. He could hear the capricious falsities, Lords and Ladies all huffing and puffing about themselves and their pretend interest in the others, the rumours he could hear circling were enough to make his head spin and not in the fun way alcohol did. The back table was his safe haven, away from the hushed whispers and polite lies, he grabbed his first glass of champagne and downed it without a seconds hesitation, flashing a smile at the serving girl as he handed her the flute back. "You've been here all of one minute." The familiar voice tutted as he spun to meet her gaze, loose strands of brunette shook with her head as she did so.
"Catalina? How did you get in here?" Frederick then grinned and put his hands on his hips. "This is a private party, am I rubbing off on you?"
"Don't be ridiculous, your mother got me in, apparently she thinks I was hired to your court to babysit you." Catalina's tone was far from kind and closer to mocking.
"Isn't it?" Frederick asked as he reached for his second glass.
"No, I am your court advisor. I advise you on important matters, by the gods, why do you think I am always telling you who is who and what to do in the court?" Catalina threw her hands up in exasperation, nearly knocking the champagne from his hand. "Your father hired me to make sure you didn't mess up the Southern Shores and to maintain our political friendships." Catalina then stormed off into the crowd as Frederick shrugged before downing the second glass, just as his brother finally caught up to him.

"Did you get lost in the crowd?" Frederick clapped his hand onto his brother's upper arm. "Here, have a drink." Frederick grabbed one of the flutes and handed it to him, but was politely declined. "Okay, more for me then, brother." He then lifted another and proceeded to knock it back, Jonathan gave him a less than impressed looked.
"Gods, how desperate are you for a drink." Frederick smirked before grabbing another and did the same simply to spite his brother. Jonathan merely rolled his eyes at how petty his brother was being. "Can you be normal for just one night? For Viv's sake?"
"Sure, no doubt she'll ruin it for herself, talk about one of her bizarre nightmares and then we'll all be sent home, no big deal." Jonathan looked as if he'd taken a hit from Frederick's words, but he simply grabbed another flute and went to drink it, not even showing any remorse for his words.

Jonathan snatched the five champagne glass from Frederick's hand, "She's our sister, how dare you?" Jonathan scolded the youngest, taking a sip from the champagne to show him how it was done. "Keep yourself out of trouble and do not come near me or Vivienne tonight." Frederick merely rolled his eyes as he pinched a grape from one of the platters.
"Oh dear Father's pet, you are a good guard dog." Frederick clapped his hand against his brother's back three times with a large grin on his face, the intended joke being far more offensive than he clearly meant it.
"How you're mother's favourite still astounds me to this day." Jonathan set the crystal flute back on the table and was swallowed back up by the crowd, leaving Frederick to his champagne.

Finally being left alone to the table, Frederick turned to have another but then the royal children were announced and he was forced away from the very table he intended to spend most of his night. He leaned up against a pillar, his expression and composure revealing his lack of interest in the well rehearsed speech. The announcement of the speech even garnering an eye roll as he pushed off from the pillar and made for the floor. He positioned himself next to Jonah, the Northern Lord, dark of hair and only slightly lighter of skin tone, he gave him a polite wave, he had no doubt Jonah and Jonathan had dealt with each other at least once but Frederick had never had to pleasure. He looked across and spotted a woman the complete opposite in description, her hair was like spun silver and her skin just as fair, her eyes weren't a dull brown but instead an enticing blend of blue and gold. Her features were so delicate and innocent, Frederick almost felt bad that her first dance would be with him. "Lady Aurora, may I have this dance?" He bowed and stretched his hand out towards her as he did so.

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Whilst navigating the crowd, Jonathan occasionally paused as each of the families were announced and greeted, watching them and making a note of the faces as the names were called. He eventually caught sight of Vivienne as he navigated through the crowd, she was stood with some courtiers, playing her little game, no doubt. As he made for her, there was a loud horn announcing the presentation of the royal children. He found himself bowing with the rest of the ballroom, whilst watching the children descend the steps. Before he could continue towards his sister, the King and Queen took to the floor to announce a dance, before inviting all the intended to step forth and form a line, when Jonathan looked back to find his sister she had already made for the floor. So he opted for simply falling in line with the other young lords.

Jonathan took his position in between Howell and Benjy, both the Daverny sons, the presence of the two making him uncomfortable, as if he were about to be jumped and mugged. He didn't usually harbour such stereotypical feelings, he spent a lot of time in the Southern Shores, he was used to their presence. He then watched as the woman lined up before them, his mind clicked then, he wasn't wary of the Davernys, he was simply nervous about the dance and was projecting it onto whatever presence was most familiar, he would have chuckled to himself if he wasn't surrounded by such watchful eyes so simply smiled at the lady before him.

Her blonde hair held up by golden pins adorned with pearls and her dress matched their colours, a lovely golden trim with a pearl fabric being the most present. He observed her features, his inner artist taking in the subtle details. Her beauty was subtle, the pallor of her skin, which revealed why they called her the Swan Princess, simply accentuating the shadows around her eyes and the beauty mark just slightly above her lip, and the indent to the left of her lip, noticeable only by the faint shadow.

He smiled at her before bowing, "Lady Cavalier, may I have this dance?" As he bowed, he stretched out his hand for her to take, waiting patiently with a smile on his face. "Although, please do not vomit on me." His jest was meant to tease and not offend, indicated simply by his playful smile and soft tone.

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Vivienne blended in with a group of courtiers, they were at the court often enough to get enough information about the other families, they mainly gossiped about the families, including the Chaimbers, making Vivienne chuckle at their ignorance and herself for believing they would be of any use to her. She remained with them, however, saving herself from being a social pariah and being seen at the ball sitting looking out the window at the garden. As luck would have it, she wouldn't be with them for very long as the royal children finally presented themselves. Vivienne curtsied as they descended the stairs, she listened with a smile on her face at the announcement of a dance, before the Queen had even finished she made her way to the floor, paying little attention to where she stood.

Vivienne smoothed out her dress as she awaited her partner to appear, if it was her first time playing the game that is court intrigue she would have fiddled with her hair and even ensured the placement of her jewellery was just right, but then she would have revealed herself from behind her mask. As she ran her hands down the fabric one last time, she heard a strong, somewhat charming voice address her. β€œLady Vivienne… Right?” She looked up from her dress to see him, his golden mane cushioning a silver crown, whilst simultaneously curtaining his strong jaw and proud cheekbones. His hazel eyes nestled in the sockets above taking on a more cobalt blue colour, the same eyes that locked with her deep blue ones as he bowed, she took his hand and curtsied, low enough to be at the same level. "Prince Castillon." She smiled at his smirk, his eyes never breaking from hers except to blink. "One might be considered about that grin, particularly if one is to believe the rumours around these very halls." The tone of her voice soft and sweet, with no intended malice, and her smile the same.

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Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne
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JONAH ALLYRION
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Eldest Child | The Winter's Wolf
#E80000 | Outfit
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CLARA ALLYRION
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Only Daughter | The Winter's Child
#388E8E | Outfit


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Clara rang the fabric of her dress as they waited for the Princes, and the Princess to arrive. She looked around the room and saw that not just a few families were here but ALL of the families were her. Everyone in the Cradle was present, even the Davernys to whom Jonah always called pirates, even if they technically weren't since The King hadn't issued a mandate saying that what they did was illegal. Of course, she couldn't tell Jonah that because he'd still call them pirates. They were privateers if anything. She took a breath, looked at all of the beautiful girls, most of them with brilliant yellow hair, and while hers was a deep midnight black, she seemed to be the only one. She looked around again, besides the Throne daughter....Sylva? If Clara remembered correctly. While, no one had her dark curls, golden amber eyes, and warm skin, she still felt unimpressive and to make matters worse, she wasn't healthy either. "Now, Songbird, try to relax." Jonah said, obviously noting her nervous habit. She dropped the bit of fabric and closed her hands. "What if I cough?" She muttered to him, trying not to move her lips much. On the ride, Mother told her to try to at least appear healthy, she didn't want any of the other girls to know how ill she was, or the Prince for that matter. Though Clara knew she wouldn't make a good wife because of her illness, Mother didn't want anyone to know that. "You only do that in the cold and it's summer here," Jonah said in the same hushed tone. "Besides, Their winters are our summers, you'll be fine."
He assured her just before the herald blew his horn.
”My Lords, My Ladies, It is my honor to present to you the royal children of the family Castillon.”
Just then, arms locked the Princes and the Princess walked out. Clara swallowed, feeling small and out of place, while Jonah gaped like a fool at the Princess. Clara was about to elbow him but she stopped as they were introduced.
”Eldest son to the King and Queen, heir to the Blackvale Rhaegar, his twin brother, Prince and King’s Guard Brom and their sister Gwendolynn.”

Clara's eyes went to the focus of this party, Prince Rhaegar. He was handsome, looked strong and he had a kindness in his eyes. She felt a little at ease for a moment and then thought. Right now, she looked like the picture of health, something she was very not, she knew all too well, looks could be deceiving.

Cursing her pragmatism, she took a breath, she could feel the rawness of an incoming cough in the back of her throat. If she could get some water, or perhaps fresh air...or better yet, out of this freezing corset, she'd felt better.

It was then that that King Magnus stood, and a hush fell over the crowd.
β€œI would like to thank you all for making the long journey to the Black Keep. We are pleased to accept you all into our home for the summer. Although our time together is to hopefully make new alliances and marriages between our children it is also a chance for us all to get a chance to know each other and create new friendships where we previously wouldn’t have the opportunity. So I’d like you all to make yourselves at home and please do enjoy yourselves.”
He said and Jonah twitched beside her. He turned to their mother, who Clara forgot was behind them this entire time, only to get swatting and shushed. Jonah turned back as the Queen stood. "I suppose I'm not the only one to be wedded this season, Am I, Brother?"
"Don't you start..."Jonah replied only from them both to receive sharp shushes from their mother. Clara merely smiled but it faded when the Queen began to speak.


β€œIn celebration of the beginning of this great summer and new friends, we invite all of our children in the dance of the Blackvale.” 
Clara's eyes went wide as the Castillion children were gestured to the middle of the ballroom floor. She looked at her brother, who was the one smiling now. He had the princess in his sights, and probably was looking forward to dancing with all of the women. Clara did not want to dance with anyone.

"Clara...You'll be fine, you've done this dance a million times." Jonah told her, casting a glance at Mother but since he was consoling her, Mother said nothing. Father was as stoic and watching as always.

Clara merely nodded. She had done this dance, but it had only been with Jonah and the first few times, she'd broken into a horrible coughing fit. It was the middle of winter though so if Jonah was right, that shouldn't be a problem.

Clara merely sighed as the Queen continued.
β€œThe dance is simple. Our strapping young men will line up across from the beautiful young ladies. They share a dance with the woman across from them and when the song changes you switch partners. The dance is over when you’ve danced with every young man or woman.” She instructed and Clara looked around. Every young man? Would she have to truly dance with every man here? Clara felt herself beginning to panic. She took a few deep breaths, and a cough tried to surface but she held it back as best she could. Jonah gave her an appraising look and she nodded. One of their many wordless conversations that usually only happened whenever he was worried about her but didn't want to worry Mother.

"Go on." Their mother told them as the others began to line up, and Jonah gave Clara a smile, and a nod before separating from her and moving to the opposite line.
She moved to the line and didn't make any move to assert herself. She was never a sociable person, quite the opposite so she hung back, hoping to be passed up.

Instead, the Prince, the heir no less, came forward, his eyes on her, and her olive cheeks flushed red. She looked around her and behind because surely he wasn't after tiny little Clara but no, he reached out for her, taking her hand and guiding her in front of him. Her eyes were wide. She knew it, she felt it them staring wild at him.

β€œApologizes, but I think I could handle this evening better having the first dance with a familiar face.” He said and she blinked, her face no longer frozen like a deer. "Familiar?" She muttered but he didn't hear her, not over the music and her voice was always soft, raising it would cause her to cough and no one needed that. He bowed to her and she fumbled a curtsy that she knew her mother would keel over and die if she saw. Clara glanced and either her mother didn't see it, or she was holding her reaction until later.

β€œOf course, you can always dance with someone else,” He told her and she smiled, albeit a bit awkwardly and shook her head, missing that he had offered his hand and since he was not Jonah, he wouldn't know that she merely meant that was fine and not that she was declining the offer.
Β β€œBeing paraded around always makes me a little nervous.”
He said and offered a smile that eased her tension. She laughed before placing her hand in his. "It's alright, Your Grace, I understand better than you think." she said and chuckled. "I must admit, I must have been very small, the last we met, I fear I don't remember you, I know of you, but no memories of my own, I'm afraid." She said, knowing that she probably shouldn't be that honest but being bedridden for so many years, cut off from people, she didn't have many of the social graces most people developed, she spoke her mind far too much most of the time.
"When last were you in the North?" She asked, as the music picked up, and she allowed him to lead her as Jonah would have.
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Jonah having left Clara on the other side of the line, watched as the men chose their partners. To his surprise, Rhaegar went straight for Clara, and soon enough she was smiling. That was a good sign...he hoped. Clara could be rather despondent so for someone other than him to get her to smile was something he was glad for. Turning his attention from his little sister, he eyed the women. They were all so lovely but who to choose? His first thought was for the Princess but he didn't want to be so forward, she was the Princess, after all, surely she would not be dancing alone and besides, he would have wanted to make a good impression and he noticed that eagerness was not exactly charming in the eyes of women, at least not in the women he came across.

Then his eye caught sight of the eldest Greyson. She looked formidable. She would be a challenge. He could see it in her eyes. Sweet words would not do for a woman like her, she had a light in her eyes that was all too familiar but whose they belonged to, he did not know. She was tall, carried herself like a fighter, being one himself, he knew it when he saw it. Jonah smirked. He made his choice.

He sauntered up to her. "My Lady Rosalyn."He said, hoping to the Gods that he did not confuse her for one of her sisters. Mother made he and Clara memorize the names of the children from the families, and while he'd heard them being introduced, he wasn't entirely confident in his memory of them to be sure. All of them were blonde, but this one was tall, unlike her sisters. When she didn't correct him on her name, he assumed he guessed right. He gave her his wolfish grin and bowed gracefully. "Magnus Allyrion, but please do call me, Jonah, might I have the honor of your first dance" He asked, using his charm in his expression as oppose to his words as he offered her his hand.

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Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne
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LARA CAVALIER
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Eldest Child | The White Frog, Swan Princess
#A8C5EA | Outfit


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Lara eventually and painfully her attention away from the Davernys who had just entered the ballroom to watch the Castillon siblings be flaunted to their company. Her gaze fixated on the to-be king in silent resignation, as she saw no reason to shy away from observing the Blackvale's most wanted bachelor. He knew they wanted him and was probably ignoring the stares, including her own. Ah, no, there could be no staring. Only coy glances. Despite this Lara stared still before raising one eyebrow and busying herself by looking inconspicuously around the ballroom, whistling inside of her head. At least he seems easy to fall in love with, she reassured herself despite being a little disappointed at the lack of "love at first sight". Sure, such a thing was unrealistic, but was she forbidden from dreaming? At the same time, she was relieved to not have been poisoned with mushy love-sickness despite how it would've made things easier. Feeling ill, she distracted herself by looking up at the ceiling and entertaining a small, unusual thought.

"What is running through your mind..." James whispered to her as the Queen called for a dance, "... Frog?"

Lara didn't want to divulge that the only thing "running" through her mind since arriving had been her tiny subconscious screaming "I'm doooooooooooomed", and she especially didn't want to explain that she had just been speculating what it meant to relate oneself to a wall, a floor or a ceiling so instead, she lied.

"I'm going to have to fight them," she said suddenly, like the epiphany had just hit her. "I see no other way to win. I must tie soap to the Prince's shoes so when they chase, they fall and break their necks." She swiped up a goblet of red wine from a passing platter and held it up high in a toast. "Here's to the Prince going down with them so they can call this entire mistake off." She shielded her face from the crowds as she chugged the entire thing down, her father watching on disapprovingly.

"Not so loud. Such loose talk can be interpreted as treason," he shushed then frowned when she didn't repent immediately and instead muttered something about the wine being strong stuff. "You cannot be se-"

Lara shot him a dark sideways look. "I'm deadly serious," she uttered. Barely a moment passed before her hardened features relaxed into a little amused smile. "Of course not, anyone could have heard me. I'll have to think of something else now." Her eyes trailed up to the magnificent chandeliers adorning the ceiling, mischief in her eyes as she remembered her daydream from earlier. She gestured up at them suggestively with a nod as she swapped out her empty cup for a full one.

"Battle plans for a ball are thoroughly unnecessary."

"This is a battlefield. All the women secretly try to knock competition off the dance floor. That, is why they make our skirts so ridiculous." She swooshed her excessive skirts around her to prove a point then hurriedly sipped at her wine when it threatened to leap from the cup. James watched her gravely and she walked back to him sheepishly. "I only make jests, Father. I'm going to be fine. My skirt could shroud a bear, I can't possibly lose."

"There's no shame in retreating to the gardens once you've had enough, but you will go no further." Lara smiled gratefully, despite knowing he was basically telling her not to run away. "Be careful."

She curtsied. "I just won't say anything." Interesting.

With that she bustled over to one of the final places in the line. Despite all her attempts at humour, her mood hadn't improved and unease settled like dust on her tongue. It was then that she realised she had claimed her place between two Davernys, the sons of the house she had been watching with as much excitement as a boy seeing his first jousting match. Her eyes darted between the two almost half expecting them to pull out cutlasses and take the entire castle hostage... and the King to reveal that they were all kidnapped and had to take part in some blood sport for his children's favour in which her soap trick proved victorious but alas, such fantasies existed only in her head. The daydreaming young woman almost forgot that she had a dance partner of her own in front of her before he spoke.

"Lady Cavalier, may I have this dance?" Her attention was stolen by the dark-haired man bowing before her. She tilted her head only slightly as she peered at him, her face crinkling with curiosity at who the man could be. She concluded that he had a handsome face - was there anyone in the court who didn't - that while plain in comparison to some of the nobleman, was littered with enough tiny imperfections to be interesting to her, such as the small brown dot beneath his right eye. She felt that if she were to look away for a moment then return her gaze to him, she would discover some new crease or shadow to color him with. If he were a treasure chest, she thought unabashedly, he would be made of pine and leather, and hold old papers inside. Probably of something boring, like a merchant's accounts.

"Although, please do not vomit on me."

What a gentleman. Lara shut the metaphorical chest in front with a snap. Of course, she already knew this was going to happen. A look at the man's face told her this was a lighthearted jest that under usual circumstances Lara would laugh at however this time it felt as though her heart had been shot, merely because she had failed in enacting her plan of being openly self-deprecating before anybody could tease her. Being the only noblewoman present to have been sick on the groom on her wedding day certainly took her down from a six to a two in terms of desirability. Her eyes trailed down guiltily to the goblet she had forgotten was still in her hand. A servant was already hurrying over to assist her and she quickly took a final drink before solemnly passing it over. She looked down at her partner and placed her slim yet surprisingly calloused hand in his.

"It would be my honor," she said with a polite smile, "Lord Chaimbers." She ticked over what she just said and quickly added on, "To dance with you. And to not vomit on you, I suppose. I'm sorry my reputation has you concerned." After all, if the story had made it to as far as the West, it had to pass through, somehow... that blob of land being the Vale, home of the Castillons themselves. After that stumble she stopped talking and let him lead her into the opening bars of the music. After watching the other dancers begin to talk she looked up at the man - who was either Jonathan or Frederick, she could not recall which of these names belonged to the eldest Chaimbers son - and her eyes narrowed, the way they always did when she was about to ask a question. "Forgive me for asking, my Lord, but from whom did you hear of that story?"

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AVERY THATCHER
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Eldest Son | The Armadillo
#FF4500 | Outfit
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ELLIOT THATCHER
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Youngest Son | The Casanova
#551A8B | Outfit
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ILENE THATCHER
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Only Daughter | The Thorny Rose
#CD1076 | Outfit

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Avery glanced around at the families gathered after their introduction and realized that almost all of the families had arrived. There were the Thornes, Graysons, Allyrions, Chambers, and the Cavaliers. Had his own family been the last to arrive? How long had the other families been waiting? He thought they had made relatively good time. And then he heard the door as another family was announced. Ah, the Daverny. How could he forget the strange and yet intriguing Daverny? He didn't often hear their name or hear about them really. He supposed it was nice that at least he could finally put more faces to the names rolling around in his head. The Davernys' dress was intriguing to say the least. He wondered what they had seen of the world. By far he was sure they were the most world savvy. He was itching to ask them about the different places they must have visited. What were the Misty Isles like anyway?

"Do you see anyone you fancy, brother?" Elliot asked as he too scanned the room for someone of interest, breaking Avery's wanderlust pondering.

"Not really. I mean I would like to speak to Clara of the Allyrion family. I haven't heard much about her. It would be fun to talk to Marriane of the Daverny. I am sure she would offer by far the most intriguing conversations. She doesn't look like so many of the other women, concerned with dress and primping."

"You do realize I am standing right beside you," Ilene asked with an eyebrow raised. "I am a lady, concerned with dress and pimping."

"You don't count,"

"You don't count,"[/color Avery and Elliot answered her in unison. Avery gave her a smile then. [color=#FF4500]"You are our sister and I know you have more on your mind that snatching a prince," he answered. "I doubt most of them want to even associate with us since we don't wear crowns. How about the two of you, any fancy?"

Ilene shrugged idly. "Not sure yet. They are all fetching," she answered but like her brother, she was far more interested in their personality, rather than appearance.

"You two are a bore," Elliot answered. "I would personally love a tumble with Howell or Jonah. And Johnathan is a cutie. There is a subtle look I like about him."

"Please behave yourself," Ilene implored. "If you do anything here, it will go beyond reprimand by our parents hand. I'd rather have you sullen and sulky then beheaded for a misunderstanding," she warned.

"Relax! I am not going to be stupid," he reassured. He'd watch, test the waters. He liked his head where it was to.

The three siblings were brought out of their revere when the royal family finally introduced their children. The family, like all the others, bowed and curtsied as was proper. Avery was about to pull his gaze away when he caught sight of the princess. He couldn't help but give a double take. He had never seen a beauty like hers. He had no love of the power mongering and originally, had no interest in her but to see her in the flesh... she was truly the most beautiful person in the room. Then again, it was just her physical appearance. What was behind those polished jewels and political smile? He didn't want another girl in his life that only cared about events such as these and looking 'pretty'. He was far more interested in learning more about her on a personal level, gauge who she was as a person. He shook his head to himself. This was all politics. She wouldn't tell the truth. Then again... he would try and find a way to ask her for a dance before the night was out. Or maybe... maybe not. He wanted to distance himself from the fight that would no doubt ensue. Maybe he'd find a way to talk to her another way. He didn't want her to think he was like everyone else, even if he did decide to pursue her in any manner.

"You are oogling," Ilene tsked though she was trying not to smirk. She was honestly surprised how instantly taken her older brother was with the princess.

Avery flushed and brought his gaze down. He was already figure out how he wanted to talk to Gwen when the queen announced the dancing. They had to dance with every lord and lady, respectively? That was good and bad, he supposed. He didn't really want to dance with everyone but it would hopefully make the evening go by faster. People were already lining up.

"Careful to keep your gaze on the woman you are dancing with," Ilene teased Avery with a subtle bump on his hip.

"I know, I know," Avery answered. "Let's go get in line."

Elliot led the way to the line with Ilene close behind. While Avery moved down the line, Ilene ended up standing beside the princess and offered her a smile when the princess looked her way. "Hello, your highness," she greeted politely. She looked forward, assuming that Elliot was going to try and dance with her first so he could gossip about the lords he wished he was dancing with. When Elliot instead stood in front of Gwen, her eyebrows reached for her hairline. What was her silly little brother up to?

Elliot himself was indeed up to something. He may not be looking for a love relationship this summer, but having friends in other families was always a bonus. You never knew what could happen in the future. He had looked over the ladies available and quickly took up his place in front of none other than the princess. He figured she would appreciate her first dance being with someone who wasn't after her hand in marriage. And considering the whispering he heard between Ilene and Avery, he'd realize that Avery was smitten with her. Maybe he could see if her personality would match up with his brother. All teasing aside, he loved his siblings dearly and he wanted for them the happiness they deserved. He had far more freedom than they did. And he was blessed with being able to take risks without too much consequence or fear. Well, time to put his neck out there. This could end badly but you didn't get anywhere without risk.

He gave Gwen a flourishing bow as she curtsied for him and took her hand to kiss her knuckles in the most charming way he could and gave her a smile. "Good eve, my princess. I was hoping you'd do me the honor of being your first partner in the long series of dances we are about to undertake," he said. He stepped just a little closer to bring his voice down as he added, "I am not after your hand, or your honor, do not fret about that. Just a friend to dance with," He offered her a smile and a playful wink. "If men were compasses pointing north, my compass lies south, if you take my meaning."


Avery was a bit surprised that his brother had gone to ask the princess for a dance. What was he playing at? He didn't have long to dwell on that however. He turned his attention to the available ladies and his eyes settled on one of the Grayson daughters. He took a moment running through the names before he figured out who she was. The second eldest if he wasn't mistaken.

He moved to stand opposite her and gave her a pleasant bow and kissed her knuckles just as his brother did to Gwen. "Lady Seraphina, would you mind terribly honoring me with your first dance?" he asked and offered her his hand, head still slightly bowed to show his consideration to her choice.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Jonah Allyrion Character Portrait: Rosalyn Grayson
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#, as written by Arrow-
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ROSALYN GRAYSON
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King's Bastard | The Red Rose
#660033 | Outfit
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SERAPHINA GRAYSON
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Eldest True Grayson | The Sweet Pea
#C19A6B | Outfit
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SYLVA THORNE
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Sylas' Twin | The Cobra
#583668 | Outfit
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AURORA GRAYSON
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Youngest Grayson | The Little Petal
#87758F | Outfit


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Sylva was accompanied to the table filled with alcohol by her brother and tried to stop herself from gagging at his flirty antics with the peasant girl. She knew it was all for an act, thus she kept herself calm. She took her flute of champagne from him and sipped it as he lead her to the large windows framing the ballroom. β€œNow what could have the mighty Magnus so tense, I wonder?” Sylas asked and Sylva looked over to see the shift in the King’s face when the fair skin, fair haired women walked into the room with Lord Robert. β€œYes, I wonder. Quite peculiar.”

The contents of Sylva’s champagne glass drained as more and more families entered the ballroom and were introduced to the king and queen. Primped and pompous girls all ripe for the picking and dashing young gentlemen ready to pluck them. All this meeting truly was, was a discussed marriage market for families to auction their children off to the best suitors. It made her scoff.

Of course, her tyranny of hateful thoughts was soon put away by the presence of a man… A servant. β€œMy Lord.” He greeted her brother. Sylva raised her brow in curiosity. β€œAh. Maxwell. This is my lovely sister Sylva.” Sylas introduced her. β€œA pleasure my Lady.” The inferior boy replied. Sylva almost snorted. Her brother had a way to him that he could make anyone beneath them bend to his will by whatever means possible. She wondered what it was that this poor fellow was falling for. β€œAnother play thing brother? I’m surprised its not a woman this time.” She chuckled to Sylas. The boy looked a little squeamish around her presence. Of course she was good at acting as well but she saw no point in being charming to this slave. She almost laughed out loud when he averted his eyes from her gaze.

β€œI have taken care of your rooms, my Lord. The adjacent chambers have a shared door so that you make travel between the two without notice.” The boy said quietly to her brother. Sylva raised her brow. He was useful after all. As her brother slipped coins into the boys pocket she realized that money was the reason this one was staying around. She was well assured her brother would take care of that, so she didn’t bother with it.

Her attention was taken then, by the grand entrance of the royal brats that would take over all of the kingdom. She did admit they cleaned up well. The sons, Rhaegar and Brom as she remembered, looked similar but yet all too different. The only other twins present other than her and Sylas. Of course, they could never share the bond they did. Sylva could read Sylas like a book and he to her as well. The Princess was also fairly attractive and she was sure that she would have a husband by the end of the summer… Unless the Thornes had something to do with it.

Sylva looked at her brother and rolled her eyes. β€œIf you stare any longer drool may fall from your lips dear brother.” She whispered to him and then looked away to listen to the introductions and speech from the King and Queen. When the dance was announced she sighed in unison with her brother. Stuck up socialites loved things like this. The kids all got their β€œfun” introductions, and the parents got to watch and gossip from the sidelines. Just lovely.

She followed Sylas’ lead and let him place her between two ditzy blonde looking girls. She would have rather thrown them off a cliff then be doing this dance charade, but she followed suit. Her eyes watched as her brother introduced himself to the pirates daughter and just her luck, she was soon standing across from the youngest. He smelt like alcohol and she wondered if he even knew what a bathtub was.

β€œLord Daverny.” She introduced and offered her hand to him like any normal lady would. Its not like she wanted him to touch her, but she didn’t have much of an option.

***


After a tense greeting between Lady Elizabeth and the King and Queen, followed by light banter by Lord Robert and curtsies, Rosalyn ushered her mother away, followed by her father and two sisters. They found solace by the refreshments and Rosalyn was quick to get a glass of wine in her mothers hands. Of course Elizabeth wasn’t much of a drinker, but tonight was one of the few times alcohol was much needed.

Seraphina gushed to her father about the ballroom and lovely it would be when she moved in. β€œMe and the Prince will dance the night away in here, and when we rule over the Kingdom, we will throw our own parties in this very room. And I will wear the most gorgeous dresses!” She giggled and clung to her fathers arm. β€œOf course Sweetpea.” He replied and laughed at her antics, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. β€œWith that much ambition I am sure you will sweep that Prince straight off his feet.” Seraphina smirked. She would do so much more than that. She would beat every girl in this room at the honour of being the Prince’s wife or she would die trying. Seraphina began to look around at all the other girls. Her competition. She needed to come up with a good strategy to obliterate them all. Was obliterate too harsh of a word? Of course not. This was war.

The youngest of the Grayson’s wasn’t paying much attention to the people or the fancy decor, as per usual. Rather, she was staring out the windows mystified by the gorgeous sunset and slowly darkening sky. She heard that there was many more stars in the sky over Blackvale then in the Riverlands. Plus, being more northern there was the chance of seeing the night sky lights. Aurora was just dreaming about them when she was snapped back to reality by Seraphina.

β€œWould you pay attention! They are about to announce my future husband. Your future brother in law. When you meet him, make sure to say lots of great things about me!” Seraphina hissed and Aurora just laughed. Her sister was always looking out to climb the social ladders, and while that was fine, Aurora much preferred to enjoy her life with the people around her.

”My Lords. My Ladies. It is my honor to present to you the royal children of the family Castillon.” A servant called to the crowd and out stepped the royal children. Seraphina almost squealed in delight. Of course it didn’t matter if the Prince was handsome or not, but damn she was lucky that he was. Golden hair like her own, cut short, tall, muscular. She was what any little girl dreamed of as a prince charming. Seraphina turned to Aurora, β€œYou were right, he is handsome!”

Aurora nodded slowly as she stared at the man. This Prince was the one to become King? A big grin broke out on her face and she clapped slowly along with the others who did. It wasn’t her decision who became the King, and the Royal family did not need her approval, but Aurora certainly looked forward to this Prince. Unlike most nobles and court folk she had met in her past, this man had kind eyes. That was a good enough sign for her.

Rosalyn, on the other hand, had a stoic expression as she looked at the Royal children. They were all quite attractive, yes, but it was more than that. Her hand came up to rest on her face as she looked at them. She shared the same jawbone as the girl, Gwendolynn, and the same strawberry blonde hair as the boys. Of course, this would not be noticeable by most, but knowing what she did… she could tell. These were truly her siblings. She tried to keep her composure and her mothers hand came to rest on her arm, knowing how she felt. Rosalyn’s eyes sharpened when the King and Queen came forward and Rosalyn just dreamed of sticking an arrow in each of their eyes.

β€œDeep breaths.” Her mother whispered, and Rosalyn closed her eyes and sighed. She just had to keep herself together.

***


Seraphina was thrilled by the prospect of the dance and Aurora, who was surprisingly graceful, was rather excited too. They hadn’t danced at such a large event in a long time. Seraphina was the first to run off, wanting to find the prince as soon as possible to get her best impression in. The sooner the better. She was sorely disappointed when he quickly scooped up a girl with darker features. Now what? She huffed and formed into the circle quickly, beside another blonde girl and a very scary looking girl she believed came from the Dark Woods. Creepy folk.

It wasn’t long before a man with golden hair and pretty eyes walked up to her. Lord Avery Thatcher if she was correct. He bowed in front of her and took her hand, kissing her knuckles softly as he did. "Lady Seraphina, would you mind terribly honoring me with your first dance?” She could tell she was by far his first choice, and like most men here she assumed he was aiming towards the princess. She could understand. At least he had gotten her name correctly. She often got her names mixed with Rosalyn.

β€œLord Avery, your first dance should be with none other than someone so beautiful as myself. You should be honoured.” She said, half in jest and half serious. The smirk on her face should tell him of her humour. She waited until he stood and got into position with him. When the music began she let him take lead.

***


Aurora looked at Rosalyn with shining eyes. β€œCan I…?” Rosalyn’s stress faded away just by the exuberant look on the girls face. β€œOf course you can, go on now.” She laughed. As if her sister needed her permission at all, she was just being courteous. The girl was always looking out for everyone else when she should have just been having a good time.

Rosalyn watched as Aurora got scooped up by a young Lord and asked to dance. It was good to see Aurora with other people, she could be a social butterfly in the right situations. Sometimes she worried about the girl when they were at home. She didn’t have very many true friends and she spent most of her time daydreaming or socializing with the peasants in the Riverlands.

Lady Elizabeth looked at Rosalyn and raised a brow. β€œWill you not be joining the dances?”

Rosalyn frowned. β€œI’m not sure dancing is for me, Mother.”

β€œWhat are you talking about, you love dancing… And you always excelled at anything physical.” Elizabeth smiled. β€œYou should try and take small pleasures in things while you can. This summer will be far too tasking otherwise. Besides, I dont think you have a choice in the matter.” She gestured forward to where a dark skinned boy was sauntering forward towards her. Lord Jonah.

He was handsome, yes, but looks never swayed her. Unlike most people here, she was not looking for a romantic venture, but she could tell when someone was attractive. She did have eyes after all. From the looks of it, he found her interesting enough to dance with too. Rosalyn just hoped he wasn’t too boring or pompous, otherwise she would be tempted to knock him on his ass.

"My Lady Rosalyn." He smiled to her. Thankfully he had gotten her name right. Her and Seraphina were so often confused. It was harder to confuse Aurora, as she was the one with blatantly silver hair.
"Magnus Allyrion, but please do call me, Jonah, might I have the honor of your first dance.” His face was a mix of coy charm, but Rosalyn detected something of a smirk under that facade.

β€œIf we must.” She replied and followed him into the circle. She hummed and raised a brow at him. He didn’t seem daft at least. β€œFrom the looks of you, you are a soldier. Most soldiers aren’t graceful, so if you are too afraid of stepping on my feet I could always lead you.” She smirked and got herself into position to dance. The least she could do was try and have fun with this. Like her mother said, she would need some distractions from the hell blazing around her.

***


Aurora was rather happy she could dance again. Out of all her sisters she was the best dancer. Of course they were good as well, but Seraphina danced too loosely, Rosalyn too strictly. Aurora liked to make dances her own; she was light on her feet and graceful. Rather than thinking about the social part of it all, Aurora was just excited to move to the music.

Just as she got into formation a boy came up to her and bowed before her, stretching out his hand.
"Lady Aurora, may I have this dance?” He asked. From the blonde hair, blue eyes and clothes he wore she could tell he was a Westerner, meaning he was a Chaimbers.

β€œOf course you may Lord Frederick James Chaimbers.” She grinned, saying his full name. β€œThere is no need to bow though my Lord, I am not that special.” She laughed and when she stood up, Aurora sniffed the air and laughed more. β€œYou smell of alcohol.”

Aurora had the curse of being brutally honest. She usually said most things that came to her mind if they were interesting enough. Of course this habit seemed to her her in trouble more times then not.

β€œI have never drank before. Is it fun?” She asked as she prepared herself to dance with him and the music slowly began.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne
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MARYNN DAVERNY
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Only Daughter | The Quarter Master
#567580 | Outfit
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BENJY DAVERNY
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Youngest Child | The First Mate
#5BA664 | Outfit
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HOWELL DAVERNY
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Eldest Son | The Swordsman
#DEAD83 | Outfit


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”It is my honor to present to you the royal children of the family Castillon.” All the attention in the room seemed to shift to the Castillons in an instant. And for that, the Daverny children were most grateful. Following the steps that were taken by the rest of the families, the three of them turned their attentions to the princes and princess. They looked as noble as their titles proclaimed to be, but if one were to look hard enough they would see the difference. Varying degree's of reluctance, but also, a great amount of strength within each of them. Marynn did not linger her gaze on any one of them, instead, taking in the room as a whole.

Her brothers - well, they were much more interested. Howell never wavered his gaze from the Princess, seemingly contemplative. Of course, Benjy's stare was more lustful than appreciative. He didn't often go for powerful women, they were much harder to bed let alone engage in conversation. But he thought he could make an exception for a princess.

As soon as that spectacle was over the Queen began to speak, drawing Marynns attention back. Howell already listening with rapt attention, but losing Benjy in the process. He instead began to survey, just as Marynn had done earlier but his focus landed mostly on the women of the room, Trying to get a lay of the land before he attempted to speak with any of them. These weren't the ditzy women that walked the shanties, no, these women were sophisticated. More's the pity - he'll have to work for his dues here.

β€œIn celebration of the beginning of this great summer and new friends, we invite all of our children in the dance of the Blackvale.” As the Queen motioned to her children, Marynn realizes that she had been holding her breath. β€œThe dance is simple,” she launches into an explanation, even though the two eldest Davernys think it's probably simple enough to figure out for themselves. Dances aren't usually that intricate. β€œOur strapping young men will line up across from the beautiful young ladies. They share a dance with the woman across from them and when the song changes you switch partners. The dance is over when you’ve danced with every young man or woman.”

They had known this was coming, but so soon after introductions? Marynn glanced between her brothers with mild desperation. At least at some point, she'll be able to take a rest by dancing with them. That at least should cut out a bit of the anxiety crawling up her gut. But before she could even manage to voice her issues their mother appeared by their side. While she spoke to the boys, her eyes lingered on Marynn with the usual amount of malice.

"None of you will cause a scene, understand?" They did, more so than Lady Elena could ever believe them. Benjy, the most likely to do something wrong nodded despite his devious grin. "Of course mother," He answered, too polite to be anything but deception. Howell scowls and Marynn tries not to let her nervousness show in her small chuckle.

"Good, we want to make a good impression here," Elena took a moment to look at the already forming dance partners. "Now hurry along." Fully dismissed, the boys went along their merry way. But Marynn was stopped momentarily as Hector appeared, a drink in hand - why did he get to drown his suffering in alcohol while she had to be completely sober.

"Marynn dear, do try not to castrate any of them." Hector spoke between a laugh and a wink, "If any of them have anything to Castrate that is." While Elena was not amused, she said nothing as Marynn shared the laugh. "I'll try not to." She's grateful for his attempt to make light of the situation. A bit of the nervousness ebbing away as she regains her strength of mind. She would not let something so small as a dance bring out any weakness in her. She is a Daverny, and Davernys are as strong as they come.

Deciding that she'd best line up now before she is left behind - as much as she would like that - she steps in, just barely straightening herself out before one of the Thornes is stepping in front of her. Sylas, she thinks is his name, only memorable because of who the Thorne's are. She can't exactly deny how handsome he is, but that doesn't mean she is exactly grateful to be dancing with him - in fact, she'd much rather not dance at all. He'd soon find out just how big of a mistake choosing her as his first dance partner would be.

He bows and offers his right hand. "Ms. Daverny," He says, and she tries not to balk. Her dress nearly trips her up as she curtsies once more, glad that she has yet to fall flat on her face. The damned sleeves get in the way as she offers her hand, hoping that her light hold doesn't show too much of her reluctance.

"Lord Thorne," She nods, tone light but not without its usual edge of misguided sourness. "Calling me Marynn is alright, or Mary if you prefer informalities." She tries her best to muster a smile that her mother would be proud of (ugh) without it seeming too fake, "I should warn that I am not very good at dancing."

~*~

Benjy had hoped to swoop in and steal a dance with the Princess, but it looked like someone had already beat him there. However, he was unconcerned with his bad luck and chose instead to just line up nearby his sister. Soon joined by an intense brunette who didn't exactly seem thrilled. Benjy doesn't fancy himself women like her, she reminds him too much of his own mother with the intensity of her gaze and the strength nod doubt hiding behind her formal attire. But, non-the-less she is beautiful and he would be a fool not to want to dance with her.

β€œLord Daverny.” Even her tone of voice is strong. He grins, bowing as he is supposed to and takes her hand kindly. "Lady Thorne, I must say that you are very beautiful." Somehow, he knows that his usual lines won't work on a lady such as herself. But, he didn't feel like working for it either. They would dance, and perhaps converse a bit, and then he would be off to the next. Hopefully, causing as much grief as possible in the short time they are given to dance. His mother would not be thrilled to know of his plans - but he didn't care for her thoughts either.

Had she wanted him to behave she would have left him at home. He did not pretend to be the same as Howell, the prim and proper son of the family. Benjy prescribed to a much grimier side of things.


~*~

Howell was fully in his element here, the formality of the event something he enjoys immensely. As well as, he isn't the worst of dance partners out there. He worries only for a moment about his siblings. Benjy's lack of grace and Marynns hopelessness when it comes to anything like this. But, they are not his concern at the moment. He watches as the dancers are quickly lining up, and finally eyes a pretty blonde without a partner, one of the Thatchers - Ilene, he remembers her name at last. His knowledge of the other families surpassing most of his family. They were unconcerned with anyone outside of the Vale and the Misty Isles, but Howell took far more interest in the way that the other families worked.

He moves in across from her, giving her a kind smile. He doesn't want to put off any sort of thuggish air - he isn't like his brother - nor does he wish to be as stand-offish as his sister. Howell put himself far above the standards they set. Bowing, and offering a hand to her.

"Lady Thatcher, would you be so kind as to give me your first dance?"

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne
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#, as written by mjolnir
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RHAEGAR CASTILLON
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Heir to Blackvale | The Falcon
#B70909 | Outfit
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BROM CASTILLON
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Prince | The Peacock
#061B62 | Outfit
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SYLAS THORNE
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Heir to Dark Wood | The Viper
#999999 | Outfit
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GWENDOLYNN CASTILLON
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Princess | The Little Dove
#F56E6F | Outfit


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Brom made no attempt to divert his gaze from the beautiful blonde before him. He found it surprising for the Black Keep to be an overwhelming sea of blonde. It seemed the golden hair blended from one head to the next aside from the pirates, the Thornes and his very fiery sister. Even himself and his brother part of that overwhelming pool. But he never worried for a second that he'd be lost in the crowd. Even if he wasn't wearing his crown, him and his brother seemed to tower over a majority of the guests.

His thoughts were brought back to the present circumstances when the enchanting woman before him took placed her own satin palmed hand in his, curtsying so that she could meet his bow. "Prince Castillon."

"Oh my dear, you may call me Brom... Or call upon me tonight, I wouldn't mind." Brom quirked his left brow as his pressed his lips upon the top of her hand as he stood back upright, taking a step towards her.

"One might be considered about that grin, particularly if one is to believe the rumours around these very halls."

Brom cocked his head as he turned to stand to the left of Vivienne, holding her left hand in his right. He waited for the music to begin and moved instep with the dance along the promenade part of the dance. The young woman looked naive and younger than what her age probably was. Her features were soft and curved. But even behind the sweet innocence she portrayed he felt there was something a bit more devious behind those golden locks.

When the dance called for them to face one another again, he placed his free hand on her waist. Brom then began to twirl her around, finally deciding to reply to her previous comment, "Rumors?" He played innocent even though his smirk was deceiving his tone. "Do enlighten me because I fear I do not know what you speak of." He released her waist to twirl her beneath his palm. He then pulled Vivienne in closer so that they were chest to chest and whispered, "I'm an angel."

***

It was obvious to Rhaegar that Clara took note of all the eyes that were upon them. After all he was the heir so no matter what he did, the entire party was going to be focused on him and all of his decisions. "Familiar?" she asked in response to his comment but she said it so softly he didn't catch it.

When she went to curtsey but fumbled, Rhaegar was quick to step towards her, gently taking hold of her shoulders to keep her from falling. "Are you alright my lady?"

Clara seemed to smile and chuckle at his honesty about not enjoying the pomp and circumstance behind this arrangement and placed her hand in his. "It's alright, Your Grace, I understand better than you think." Rhaegar smiled glad that someone understood how odd this whole situation felt. Generation after generation parents were doing this to their children, probably hating it as much as they did... but then they went on to doing it to their kids. He made a mental note that when he had kids of his own, they could marry whom they wanted.

"I must admit, I must have been very small, the last we met, I fear I don't remember you, I know of you, but no memories of my own, I'm afraid. When last were you in the North?"

Rhaegar turned with the line of other young Lords and Ladies, walking the intro of the dance as he held Clara's hand. Out of sync with the dance he playfully twirled her before bringing her in towards him, and placing his hand on her waist. "I do believe it's been the better part of a decade. My brother," he started as he moved with elegance as he guided her around the ballroom in accordance with the dance his mother drilled into his head. "It must have been when he decided to become King's guard. I believe we took him to the North to train under your father. Understandable that I would remember you and not vice versa. I was 17 or 18 which would have made you... 8, I believe?"

He released Clara's waist and gently guided her through a twirl, before bringing her close yet again. Rhaegar smiled towards his siblings when he caught their gaze before looking back towards his partner. "So are you hoping to find love this summer? Or did you come because your parents wanted you to?"

***

Gwen raised a brow at the very extravagant bow her dancing partner made towards her. He then took her hand and place a tender kiss upon her knuckles. "Good eve, my princess. I was hoping you'd do me the honor of being your first partner in the long series of dances we are about to undertake," Elliot said. When the young blonde smiled towards her, Gwen returned it with her own smile. She hoped she looked sincere even though deep down she wanted nothing more than to run out into the gardens and disappear up in a tree. He took a step closer to her with took her by surprise but she didn't pull away. "I am not after your hand, or your honor, do not fret about that. Just a friend to dance with," he winked towards her.

Gwendolynn inhaled sharply as she turned to stand beside him, walking to the beat of the music. She didn't quite believe his words because what better way to get close to a princess other than claiming not to want anything to do with her. His next words though caught her off guard, "If men were compasses pointing north, my compass lies south, if you take my meaning."

She turned to face Elliot, freezing in place until a couple behind them cleared their throats loudly in an attempt to get them to move. Gwen quickly picked up her pace, turning to face him scooping up the train of her dress in her free hand. It was a few moments into the dance before she finally connected the dots. "Oooohhh..." She laughs at how stupid she felt when she connected the dots. "I'm afraid my lord, that there may not be much in that realm here at the Black Keep. I don't know if there will be anyone to satiate that appetite."

Gwendolynn was able to finally exhale a deep breath almost worried she might pop her corset. But it was nice knowing she didn't have to put on airs for the first dance of the night. She was nervous enough as it is, having to dance with someone who would try to seduce their way into her bed or status wasn't something she wanted to deal with just yet.

***

Sylas tried not to scoff or simply walk away when the Daverny woman seemed to be having more trouble with her dress that it was worth. None of the other women seemed to have issues but then again it looked like this one wasn't used to walking on land for more than a moment or two, or in anything that wasn't trousers. He grasp on his hand was light, no doubt she was looking forward to this dance about as much as he was.

"Lord Thorne," she started. At least she knew who he was, that's a start. "Calling me Marynn is alright, or Mary if you prefer informalities." She smiled towards him as he began to lead her side by side following the line of partners.

"Ah well, my Lady Mayrnn, you may call me Sylas." He gently turned her, placing his other hand on the back side of her ribcage.

"I should warn that I am not very good at dancing."

Sylas could see right past the fake smile. She seemed as uncomfortable with dancing as she was in that dress but no matter he wasn't going to let on. It was too soon to show his true colors so he simply smiled his charming effortless smile that made his eyes seem to sparkle even if they masked his true disgust with this whole evening. "You are in lucky my lady, for I've been told I'm an excellent dancer." With a soft press on her back he guided her into a twirl. "But it is fortunate that this dance is simple. A bow and a curtsey, promenade, break off into pairs, a few twirls... And then switch." When he said switch, he spun her again. "The most difficult part is pretending like we actually enjoy this boring dance."

Sylas gave a slight chuckle. The Dance of Blackvale was horrid and boring. Nothing short of doing the same exact same thing over and over again. Simple enough for this dull crowd.

***

The King watched as the younger generation moved together to begin dancing. He could see their hesitance and disdain as plain as day on their face. He couldn't help but feel a sinking sensation in his gut. He wished it was easy enough to allow them to marry whom they wanted when they wanted. This was there glimmer of a chance but their pool of options was small. Arranged marriages never turned out remotely as well as they should.

His gaze drifted towards his wife with the thought. Magnus leaned towards her, pressing his lips against her cheek in a loveless kiss. "I am going to converse with our guests my love." With that he stepped down form the royal podium and worked his way through the crowd. When he caught only a momentary glimpse of his daughters gaze he gave her a smile and a playful wink.

Magnus wasn't sure where he was going, his feet carried him and before he knew it, he found himself before her. She hadn't aged a day, looking radiant as ever. She didn't try to look younger or hide her age like the Queen did. Her age was shown like a badge of honor to show her accomplishments and she wore it well. He couldn't help but smile as he bowed before her, taking her hand in his and placing a long lingering kiss upon it. "Elizabeth, lovely as ever."

He then looked towards Robert, smiling in greeting and shaking his hand. "You take very good care of all your girls. They've grown up to be such beauties, you must be proud." His gaze drifted to Elizabeth for a moment before back towards her husband, "Might I have your permission to walk about the room with your wife?" He asked Robert out of kindness as he held out an offered arm towards Elizabeth. If her husband denied him the offer, Magnus would find another way to get an audience with her, after all he was the king. But he was never one to cause futile disputes in the middle of a celebration.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Ilene Thatcher Character Portrait: Howell Daverny Character Portrait: Marynn Daverny Character Portrait: Benjy Daverny
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MARYNN DAVERNY
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Only Daughter | The Quarter Master
#567580 | Outfit
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BENJY DAVERNY
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Youngest Child | The First Mate
#5BA664 | Outfit
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HOWELL DAVERNY
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Eldest Son | The Swordsman
#DEAD83 | Outfit


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"You are in lucky my lady, for I've been told I'm an excellent dancer." Marynn is glad that one of them is, she tries her best to get into the rhythm. Following his lead as best as she can manage. After a moment, it doesn't seem so hard not to get tangled up. Though she's a far cry from elegant. He's proving to be far more capable than she is, and, she won't deny that he is charming. If not, a bit on the side of too much.

"But it is fortunate that this dance is simple. A bow and a curtsey, promenade, break off into pairs, a few twirls... And then switch." Simple has never sounded so painfully annoying, or perhaps, it's the fact that she'll have to dance with each of the men here - which is as bothersome as it is utterly nerve wracking. Less for the fact that she'll have to show poor dancing skills in front of more than one person, and more for the fact that it's entirely likely she'll have decked someone by the end of the night. This whole affair is nothing but trouble.

"The most difficult part is pretending like we actually enjoy this boring dance." Marynn can't help but let out a dry laugh, a small part of her dying on the inside for showing any genuine emotion.

"I'm a Daverny, all we do is pretend to enjoy that which is beneath us," The patented Daverny bitterness seeps into her tone as they continue to dance. The less she focuses on how horribly stiff this event is, the easier it is to relax into the moves. She still hates everything about it, from the dress to the people. "I suppose it isn't so bad," She wrinkles her nose as she accepts that this will at least make things move along faster. Better than letting them all loose to converse; or in Marynn's case find the darkest corner to hide in until it all ended. If she wouldn't be easily noticed as missing she still would have done so.

She looks away for a moment to seek out her brothers, Benjy at least looks to be faring no better than herself. Perfect Howell, of course, has no issues with dancing at all. A born noble if she ever saw one. Marynn purses her lips but realizes that she probably shouldn't be giving the impression of not enjoying this at all. Surely her mother is there, somewhere with the other parents, watching Marynn with a critical eye. As if a mask has been slid into place, Marynn adopts a more fitting expression.

"I can't say I'm much for chatter either... merrymaking is much easier with a drink in hand," Marynn isn't talkative, to begin with, and really, she has no drive to create the conversation where clearly there is none. "I don't know much about your family, and nor do I believe you'd care much about mine so what then is there to talk about?" She ponders aloud. Biting her tongue when she realizes how rude that must have sounded. But, honesty is the best policy is it not? And truly, what would she do with useless information about families that have no impact on the Misty Isles.

Without waiting for him to reply she continues on, hoping that the more she speaks, the less she'll have to actually say anything of real value.

"We've covered names, of course, that's a given" She hums. "As well as the inability to dance, a phrase I'm sure to repeat more than once tonight." She smirks then, "I'm sure you'll also be able to reassure more of the ladies here about your ability to dance. How delightful." She trails off with a small 'hmm.' noise. She falls completely quiet, either unwilling or incapable of finding something else to say to fill the silence.




"Lord Howell, I would be happy to dance with you,"

"Excellent." He's glad that she does not recoil, as he would expect.

"So, Lord Howell, I hope you don't mind but I am very curious about the Misty Isles, about life on a ship. Would you enlighten me about the Misty Isles?"

"Ah, I don't mind at all." He's quite surprised, he's unsure if he's properly schooling himself or not for a moment. His careful composure having slipped for a moment.

"A rather odd topic of conversation I must say, the Misty Isles is usually avoided in conversation altogether." He's a bit amused by the fact that she would be interested. Though, it's refreshing as well. He isn't sure exactly what to say. There are as many good things as there are bad things about the Isles and living aboard a ship. There's little to tell that isn't accompanied by a bit of grime and grit. Dried blood and dirt is no stranger to the seas and its glory.

"It's only half as thrilling as people expect, mostly its hard work and avoiding angering the wrong sorts. Even the kindest men in the Isles are willing to steal or kill for coin, though they rarely get far in our case." He's had to skewer more than his fair share of friends, the life of a pirate isn't always about camaraderie and adventure. Especially when most men in the Misty Isles aren't in favor to lady luck. Her cruel hand often snuffing the life from any poor soul she can find. Their home is so overrun by the strife that Howell often carries his sword at his side. An unfortunate by-product of his mother and fathers cold rule. None of that is something to speak of in light conversation, however. He focuses for a moment on leading the dance, dipping, and twirling as needed. He rather enjoyed dancing, on the few occasions that he has had to do so.

"But it's not all bad," He can give his life a little credit in the least. "It's never boring, and there's always an adventure to be had. The view is breathtaking, even on a stormy night when the waves toss the ship hard enough to strike fear into the hardiest of men." He smiles, content to leave it at that. Though, were she to ask for more he wouldn't be unwilling to give it. However, he doesn't want the conversation to focus on him, he's interested as well in her. She seems different, more lively than some of the other nobles here. Her interest alone had sparked his.

"Oh, but it's not quite fair if I do all the talking," He winks, still keeping his careful, charming mask in place. His mother would be proud - that's almost enough to sour his mood. If not for his dancing partner.

"I'm sorry to say I don't know much about The South, I'm restricted by what little knowledge reaches the Isles." In truth, he wasn't quite sure there was much to hear of from the South the begin with, but that wasn't something he would say - or assume - in polite company.

"So, if you would be so kind as to tell me, Lady Ilene, what kind of exciting life do you lead?"






Ice cold as expected, Benjy made no attempts at pleasantries as the dance went on. He had no will to engage in any such charade if she was not also willing to put up a mask, and, honestly, each time there was a stumble he could only internally grin at how annoying it must be for her. Dancing wasn't a strong suit of his, but he certainly wasn't going to make an effort with her. Nobles. Pithy beings that they are wouldn't last a minute on a ship. He'd like to see any one of them try to walk across the Black Dodgers deck if only to see what their land legs afforded them.

β€œSo I have been told by many.” he has no doubts that she has. Beautiful, yet from first impressions alone he can tell that she's got far too many terse remarks tucked up her sleeves. His jovial mood has been completely snuffed.

"Oh, I'm sure you do Lady Thorne." He remarked, without any true intention to insult.

β€œI must say I am surprised to see the Daverny clan out of the water.” He shakes his head, with an exaggerated sigh. He's beat to the chase before he can dredge up a proper quip. Somewhat, annoyed by her ability to unhinge his usual charms. At least there were better women to court here, he wouldn't have to deal with Sylva much longer.

β€œI am beginning to think the land itself may become wet with tears, what with your clumsy feet walking all over it.” Ah, sarcasm, he's begun to see far too many similarities between this woman and his sister. Although Marynn at least is much less of an ice queen.

Ignoring the sarcastic remark altogether he focuses on her previous words. "It's a myth that we never walk on land, and not a very intelligent one at that," he remarks, incapable of holding back the distaste in his tone. His contempt abundantly clear. "After all, one cannot always look after an entire island from afar."

"But your lot would know plenty about myths, right?" he does grin then, knowing that he's making no ally of her. Not that he would want to. He can practically hear his mother's head exploding somewhere beyond him. Though he knows she's probably more focused on Marynn. Benjy could make as many mistakes as he wanted here.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Elliot Thatcher Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Vivienne Chaimbers Character Portrait: Rhaegar Castillon Character Portrait: Brom Castillon
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RHAEGAR CASTILLON
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Heir to Blackvale | The Falcon
#B70909 | Outfit
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BROM CASTILLON
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Prince | The Peacock
#061B62 | Outfit
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SYLAS THORNE
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Heir to Dark Wood | The Viper
#999999 | Outfit
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GWENDOLYNN CASTILLON
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Princess | The Little Dove
#F56E6F | Outfit


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"A Marquise calling upon a Prince, oh how scandalous. Here I thought the Royals gave the orders." Brom caught a glimpse of her a hint of playfulness behind her dazzling blue eyes. ”Prince Castillon,” Vivienne said as she stepped closer to him as the dance called for.

Brom leaned his head towards hers while keeping his head and face turned forward. β€œYou’d find… That I am very good at following orders.” he whispered towards her. His face had a seductive and potentially sinister grin that matched the velvet like caress of his words.

As they began dancing Brom was light on his feet and elegant. No doubt surprising for someone as large and bulky as he is move with such fluidity. He carried the dance in such a way that they moved in sync like a unit. He guided her and lead her with ease but Vivienne had his full attention.

Of course, Vivienne was ready to play when it came to his humble declaration of his angelic-ness. "Come now, Prince Castillon. I am not a lady so easily fooled.”

Brom chuckled, using his hand on her back to gently move her through a spin before returning her before him. β€œOh I would never think such a thing of a beautiful woman.” He quirked his brow weaving them through the other pairs of young men and women. Brom would have loved to have heard the conversations being exchanged between all the partners. The information he could find and to know everyone’s interest would be enticing. But being the gentleman he was, no one had his attention aside from Vivienne.

"However, I shall indulge you…The woman of the Vale have very loose lips, and the men are all to eager to hear. Although, I have it on good authority that the Western woman know how to hold their tongue."

The comment made Brom let out a hearty laugh, enough to where he had to raise a hand to try to stifle it when he caught glaring glimpses from the Queen. He cleared his throat as he calmed his laughter. When he looked back to Vivienne, he smirked yet again as he spoke. β€œWell, I have never had the pleasure of holding the tongue of a Western woman. But it is a delicacy I’d greatly enjoy experiencing.”

But as soon as the friendly and flirtatious banter started, it subsided taking Brom by surprise. "The Princess, she's very beautiful tonight. One could see why she wouldn't be short of suitors..." The comment made Brom stiffen and his smile fade. He quickly tried to make it return but not it was strained and his discomfort noticeable. "Does that worry you?” His gaze was met by hers causing his tried smile to fade showing the true concern he felt across his face. "I don't mean to offend or upset you, it's just we understand what it's like to be seperated."

Brom took in a deep breath. He was trying not to think about it but now that it was brought to the table there was no way of avoiding it. β€œI love my sister very much. She has grown to be quite beautiful… She deserves all the happiness in the world.” He could tell by the music that the pairs would begin to pull together for a switch soon. β€œIt’d be a lie to say that it doesn't hurt to know that this summer could be the last time my siblings and I are together. But,” He gave Vivienne a final spin bringing her close to the line. β€œIf someone were to hinder Rhaegar’s or Gwendolynn’s chance at happiness they would have to deal with me. I would rather them happy and separated then heartbroken and all of us together.”

With everyone gathered back together in their lines, Brom’s smile slowly reformed. He gave Vivienne a final bow with a tender kiss upon her knuckles. β€œEnjoy the evening my lady for it is the first night of an amazing summer.”

As shifted along the line with the other gentlemen, Brom cleared his throat and adjusted his shirt trying to get back into a more enthusiastic mood. He adorned his face with a suave smile as he stopped before one of the beautiful blonde Grayson’s. Seraphina no doubt was the most attractive of the Graysons. He gave a flawless bow while taking the beauties hand and placed a gentle kiss upon it. β€œMy lady Seraphina, you are without a doubt stunning this evening.”

***

Sylas smirked ever so slightly when Marynn laughed at his comment about the horrible dance choice of the Queen. "I'm a Daverny, all we do is pretend to enjoy that which is beneath us." Although Sylas smiled at the comment he thought there couldn’t be much that is beneath Daverny’s… Not much more than pirates but given the title of β€œLords.” There was nothing beneath them besides dirt. "I suppose it isn't so bad."

After that they both took part in some silence between them which Sylas did not mind. It was tiring sometimes to pretend to be the charming and friendly Lord that he is far from. His eyes caught a glimpse of Sylva during a rotation in the ballroom. A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips as she seemed to be greatly unsatisfied with her dance partner of yet another Daverny. Poor boy will be destroyed by the time she will be done with him.

"I can't say I'm much for chatter either... merrymaking is much easier with a drink in hand.”

Sylas raised his brows slightly, nodding his head in agreement. ”Now that I can agree with. But too much drink can also make the chatter worse.”

"I don't know much about your family, and nor do I believe you'd care much about mine so what then is there to talk about?"

Sylas actually chuckled at the comment, nodding his head before guiding her through a spin. She then wasted no time to continue talking, mostly nonsense, but that wasted the last portion of the dancing while they shifted towards the lines. "We’ve covered names, of course, that’s a given. As well as the inability to dance, a phrase I’m sure to repeat more than once tonight.” He would not deny that. "I’m sure you’ll also be able to reassure more of the ladies here about your ability to dance. How delightful.”

He allowed his charming smile to shift to barely a smirk of understanding and content. ”Well… whomever told me that all Daverny’s lost their intelligence from drinking that salt water was wrong.” He bowed before her, and gave her the customary kiss upon the hand. "Let’s hope more rumors are disproved this night… What fun would a summer in the Keep be if we all already knew everything about each other.” He nodded his head towards her one final time. "Have a pleasant evening my lady.”

Sylas let his faΓ§ade fall momentarily when no one was watching him before taking a deep breath and putting on the charming smile once again. He gave a bow and kissed lady Vivienne’s hand. "You are looking lovely this evening Lady Chaimbers.” He then offered her arm to begin the promenade and start yet another dance. Sylas was curious to find out if more of these women here had something more to them than looks or if their skulls only contained marbles.

***

”Um, well,” Clara mumbled apparently taken by surprise by the question. Rhaegar’s smile faded slightly. He didn’t mean to ask a question out of line he was simply curious as to the intentions of others here at the court. Him and his siblings were just hoping to survive, they didn’t like being paraded around for the world. But he hoped that maybe at least someone hoped for love and happiness here this summer.

"To be honest, a little of both. My parents--my mother mostly, insisted, but I agreed.” Rhaegar’s gaze did not waver from Clara as she answered his question. "You've known me since I was small, you remember how sick I was? I'm not good with other people, I tend to shy away from them, but I figured, since I was going anyway, I should give it a try since I probably wouldn't find love otherwise."

Did Rhaegar believe that? Not entirely. Everyone has a love out there somewhere. That included her. Even if she did not find love here this summer he knew someday she would. ”You’ll find love someday be it here in the Vale or in the North. Everyone has someone out there, we just have to find them.”

He gave Clara a slow and elegant twirl before she returned to his arms and asked a question of him. "Do you hope to find love?"

Rhaegar’s face saddened slightly as he contemplated the question. He let out a soft sigh before he continued. ”Yes but not for the reasons I should.” His gaze fell slightly and his smile slipped away. ”If I do not find love this summer and choose someone, then I unfortunately will be assigned someone.” He began to guide her back to the line as the song was coming to an end but still held her gaze. ”It’s not that I would not care for the woman and treat with the utmost respect… But I could never be truly happy with someone I did not choose.”

When they reached the line and the end of the song, even though the dance did not call for it, Rhaegar gave Clara one final twirl. He then smiled towards her while bowing and kissing her hand. ”I do hope that you find the love you deserve this summer my lady. Someone deserves to wake up to your beauty every sunrise.”

Rhaegar then parted from Clara and shifted down to find himself standing before the Daverny daughter. He couldn’t help but grin at how she made the formal attire her own. It was a nice sight to see someone still be themselves throughout all the pomp and circumstance. ”A pleasure my lady Daverny.” He pushed back his cloak as he bowed and gently took her hand in his. His lips graced her knuckles with a soft kiss before he stood and offered her his arm. ”How are your land legs faring you? I can imagine it’s quite different being in the Vale.”

***

"Ugh! I know!" Gwendolynn giggled at the comment. "It will be a lonely summer I am sure. Such a dreadful thing. But if you do happen to see that one of these handsome lords might take a fancy to it, please do send them my way. Especially if it is Jonah Allyrion. He is quite the looker. Jonathan Chaimbers would do quiet nicely as well. Howell has a nice roguish looking quality now that I have a chance to look him over.”

Gwen smiled towards Elliot. No doubt it was a relief to relax and not have to worry about impressing him. β€œWell my lord, I shall keep my eyes peeled while I dance with the other Lords and report back to you with my findings.” She smirked playfully towards him. β€œBut in return you should listen out for which gentlemen have true and honest intentions so that I might survive this summer unscathed.”

"Sorry. I hope you don't mind me scouting eye candy."

β€œOh no, it’s quite alright.” She smiled reassuringly. β€œI find Sylas Thorne quite agreeable, but I stop that right there, she leans in to whisper, β€œWe all know the rumors there.” She allowed Elliot to spin her before returning to his arms. β€œI do agree Jonah is quite handsome. Howell looks charming as does your brother,” she chuckles making a silly face. β€œAs for Jonathan Chaimbers, I’ll leave him to you. He isn’t quite my type… At least, so far as I know.” She playfully winks towards Elliot.

"It is of no offense to you though, my lady. You are quite beautiful and the dress does suit your complexion. But I digress. When not being forced into an overly tight corset, what do you enjoy doing with your time?"

Gwendolynn smiled at the compliment. β€œWell thank you my lord.” She then momentarily placed her hand on her abdomen. β€œIt is so tight.” She agreed quietly.

She noticed that the song was coming to an end, unfortunate. Gwen was enjoying her time with Elliot. Of course she’d enjoy time with someone completely uninterested in her. She supposed as a last resort they could potentially marry under the agreement to allow each other to take lovers. But she pushed though aside hoping she might be able to find someone. β€œWell… I do enjoy horseback riding. I’m quite good at it, even beat my Father in races. Honestly, I enjoy most things that gentlemen prefer that is unacceptable for a female to enjoy. My mother detests it. But what does she expect when I grew up with two older brothers.”

Gwendolynn let out a soft sigh as she curtsied before Elliot, flashing him a sweet smile. β€œWell I did quite enjoy our time together. I do hope we can spend time together again… When I’m not wearing an obscenely tight corset.”

She ran her hands along any ripples or wrinkles in her dress as she waited for another partner to step before her. When Gwen saw Howell step before her she nearly choked on her own forgotten breath. She wonder if it was a cruel joke by the Gods. Over hear her mention that he looked charming so of course he’d be her next partner. Gwendolynn curtsied, holding out the fabric of her dress. β€œLord Daverny.”

***

β€œOf course, it would be an honour,” Robert replied to Magnus’ question to walk about the room with his wife.

”Thank you. I’ll take good care of her.” Magnus smiled towards Robert.

When Elizabeth took Magnus’ arm his heart skipped a beat. How long had it been since he hand touched this goddess of a woman? She was effortless, perfect and utterly gorgeous in everyway. He couldn’t restrain himself from reaching his free hand to rest upon hers that held his arm. But just before they touched she spoke. β€œYour Majesty, to what do I owe the honour of this stroll?”

The subtle harshness in the words dug deep. But he keep the smile upon his face and let his hand finally rest upon hers. His gaze fell as he hesitated before speaking in a hushed tone. ”Would it be too forward of me to say because I missed you terribly?”

He finally looked back up and met that gaze of hers that made him fall in love those many years ago. Magnus made sure to do nothing to draw attention their way, he didn’t want scandal or to disgrace Elizabeth. ”I know I shouldn’t speak of such things,” he concluded as he continued to lead her about the ballroom.

Magnus remained silent for a long while until they stood on the far end of the room where no one lingered and their voices could not travel. He kept his gaze forward, fixated on his children’s merriment but he spoke towards her, his hand lightly grasping hers tighter. ”I’d be lying if I said my heart did not yearn for you every waking moment since the day you left.”

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Aurora Grayson Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Vivienne Chaimbers Character Portrait: Brom Castillon Character Portrait: Jonathan Chaimbers
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JONATHAN CHAIMBERS
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Eldest Son | The Pawn
#9BC4E2 | Outfit
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FREDERICK CHAIMBERS
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Youngest Son | The Trickster
#96CDCD | Outfit
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VIVIENNE CHAIMBERS
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Only Daughter | The Weaver
#92CCA6 | Outfit


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Jonathan observed Lara as she listened to his attempts to reassure her, if he was at the court he would think it as merely polite, but in the Court, it was a large influence on how well you succeeded in the Game. If one didn't listen in the Court, they would miss the one link in the very chain that connected everything. Whilst she was no doubt playing the Game and merely using such information for her own uses, he felt somewhat at ease with her, neither of them seemed to fit in completely and he was glad of that.

He watched as she twirled, the dress swallowing her up as the skirts spun with her, for eye catching features it was a shame, her beauty was in the details and not in large statements, plain but not without intriguing detail. He was pulled back from his artistic view of her when she pointed out his defeated look.
β€œYou are disheartened, my Lord? That you have no answer or on my behalf?” Her tone was genuine and he gave her a halfhearted smile.
"Am I so easily read?" He chuckled before bowing his head in agreement. "I'm just sorry that I can't offer more to put your mind at ease, when it's my fault it has concerned you."
β€œNo matter your concerns, I am both happy that my plague may have spread, and that you did not partake in its spreading.” Lara's smile reassured him, he was glad to hear such words.

β€œJonathan,” When he heard her utter his name, he smiled, glad for someone to treat him like a person and not a title for once. β€œI'm afraid my House is strict with formalities, however, as you said – your house considers mine a friend, therefore you may call me Lara. Lady Lara.” He returned a smile, but looking into her eyes he could see something, something with meaning but whether it was fear or sadness he couldn't quite tell, if he was to paint her, it would be the eyes that ruined it for him, painting such emotion into the eyes was always where he went wrong.

β€œThe topic of my attempted marriage does not concern me when discussed with those who will take it with laugh, rather than those who... sheath it.” Jonathan nodded at her final words, she was right, there were people in the court who would use such a scandal against her.
"Such is the way of the Game." He found himself admitting out loud, his tone sombre and soft. He noticed her sigh as she looked over to where the parents stood, watching their children dance.
β€œThe story may condemn me in some eyes, but a blackened name brings certain freedoms. I am in truth in gratitude to my gossiping groom. No noble in their right minds would sacrifice a son to an arranged marriage with the frog of the marsh.” There was a glint in her eye as she spoke, the very glint that sparked a wicked grin across his face, there were layers to the lady before him and it made her more human than most of the other ladies at court.
"Well, aren't you lucky? Some of us have boring duties to attend to and lack such freedoms." He teased her, his tone light and charming, his smile cheerful and soft.

Her next question surprisingly didn't catch him off guard, he was going to have to get used to that question over the summer. He was the eldest son of the Duke and held his own lands and responsibilities, yet was still to be betrothed.
β€œAnd you, Jonathan, you are of age and have been for some time. How is that you are here and not married? Have the Westerners kept your scandal?” He shook his head with an amused breath escaping his lips.
"And what scandal would that be, Lara? Has my misdeeds spread far and wide?" His words once again teasing her lightly. "The Westerns have never really married because we came of age and it was a duty, that's a recent thing to the West. The tribes were already family, marriage was sacred and the truest form of love... It's more customary in the West to marry for love, not for duty. I don't quite have the time to find such a bride." His explanation was probably more long winded than Lara had hoped for and as he went to engage her further, the signal for swapping partners hit his ears. He looked at Lara, and his smile faded, she was an interesting lady but their time at the dance had come to a stop.

He released her hand and waist, before bowing to her, with the music in a quiet lull he returned to the proper manner to address her. "It has been a pleasure, Lady Cavalier, I hope to see more of you during our time in the Summer." His words were sincere and wished it didn't seem so rude, but there were rules to this dance much to his chagrin. The pair then retook their places in line and Jonathan moved to his next partner, Lady Ilene Thatcher. Bowing before her, he took her hand and placed a kiss on her delicate hand. "You are a sight fit for the Gods, Lady Ilene." He greeted her, playing to her vanity, the corniness of the line reminding him of why he would roll his eyes when he heard his brother interact with women.


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The Prince was so full of confidence, it was slightly intimidating. Vivienne had known how to feign confidence for so long that she could see it in others, but with Brom it was rather real. For her, confidence was tiring, but to him it was just nature, who he was at his very core. "You’d find… That I am very good at following orders." Brom's words were like silk, trying to wrap Vivienne up, but she was no fool to the ways of men who played several Games.
"A captain of the guard who's only good at following orders, what a pity for the nation." She teased him, the hand that rested on his shoulder now tracing a symbol on his chest, but no doubt to him it would seem like she was simply teasing him but it was more a gesture of mockery only a westerner would understand.

Vivienne followed in Brom's steps as he lead the pair in their dance, he was surprisingly graceful and delicate in his steps, they seemed to dance in perfect unison, there was no keeping up with him or slowing for him, their movements flowing together without issue. Vivienne would have been more surprised but he was a soldier, a soldier needs to know his enemies moves in order to defend himself, combat itself was a dance.

The pair continued their dance and harmless teasing, until Brom's outburst of laughter, whilst embarrassed at first, she recognised where she'd gone wrong and started to chuckle too, although in a much more reserved manner.
"Well, I have never had the pleasure of holding the tongue of a Western woman. But it is a delicacy I’d greatly enjoy experiencing." Vivienne blushed slightly at his cheeks, but the corner of her lips pulled up into a smirk as she held back another giggle.
"I guess, I could have worded that better."

Vivienne knew she would come to regret her question regarding the siblings separation, she had ruined the mood of the dance with just a few sort sentences and she could feel it when Brom's whole body stiffened, even though he tried to smile it off, she could see through it.
"I love my sister very much. She has grown to be quite beautiful… She deserves all the happiness in the world. It’d be a lie to say that it doesn't hurt to know that this summer could be the last time my siblings and I are together. But," Vivienne was surprised by the spin, and rather ungracefully missed a step, but she managed to recover it before she embarrassed herself or her family further. "If someone were to hinder Rhaegar’s or Gwendolynn’s chance at happiness they would have to deal with me. I would rather them happy and separated then heartbroken and all of us together." Vivienne couldn't help but feel threatened at his words, her intentions were to help the royal siblings with something her mother mentioned in the carriage. The idea of his misinterpretation even upset her, he merely thought of her as a prying courtier.

Before Vivienne could clear up the situation, Brom bowed low and kissed her hand, "Enjoy the evening my lady for it is the first night of an amazing summer." With an almost defeated look she curtsied him before returning to the line, when she turned around, her fake smile for the Court had returned. When she looked back up, before her stood one of the Thorne's, a tingle sent shivers from her spine out across her body, that sense of dread she felt every time something bad happened was slowly creeping over her. He bowed and took her hand in his, before placing a soft kiss on the back of her hand.
"You are looking lovely this evening Lady Chaimbers." Vivienne offered him a smile and a slow blink, she was a good actress, she told herself to simply get through this one dance.
"Lord Thorne," She managed to say his name clearly and without a quiver. "The same could much be said of you." She took her position with him for the beginning of the dance, she looked at how well he had presented himself and she smirked, looking at the people surrounding them, she realised she was in no immediate danger. "Sometimes the most venomous snakes, have the most beautiful scales." She quoted her teacher outloud to Sylas. "The Snake House, that's what your family is known as?" She didn't know where she was going with this, but maybe if she could make him aware of her knowledge that the family was dangerous, he'd see her as a threat and not a victim, in her head she hoped to intimidate him, but she would no doubt put herself in more danger by acting in such a way.


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Frederick smiled as Aurora laughed at his story, just by looking at her he could tell there was little in her that made her malicious, she was a young and kind soul, the kind that would give you fuzzy, warm hugs. Her seemingly delicate nature inspired a bit of guilt in himself, but he shook it off being the arrogant Westerner he was, he couldn't second judge himself.
β€œI have never been outside of the Riverlands. Being the youngest does not get you far from home… But I love adventure, and I have read books on the Western Bluffs, none of the Fae though. They sound marvellous. The only other person with this white hair is my mother and she isn’t a goddess as much as she may seem like it at times.” He chuckled at the comments on her mother as they twirled under the parents watchful gazes. β€œI would love to travel there one day. I would love to see everything.”
"I have suspicions that she would not be too happy to hear you say that." He teased, before twirling her in a swift motion, luckily he'd done it enough times with more alcohol in his system and his partners so even if she stumbled, he'd be able to catch her without an issue. "And if you ever wish to see more of the world, the Southern Shores would very much welcome you." The invitation was very much so real, but his tone implied he was merely teasing her. He spinned her once again, softer this time so as not to disorientate her and let her drop into his arm, her entire body relying on him for her not to meet the marbled dancefloor. He leaned in closer and whispered in her ear "I also have a feeling you'd get on well with my sister, mayhaps she could even show you some of the lands believed to of housed the Fae maidens."

Frederick returned her to a standing position and they resumed the dance, the theatrics earning him an approving glance from his mother, but an eye roll from his father, not that he noticed, his full attention on Aurora as she discussed alcohol with him.
β€œFrom what I have seen though… alcohol can be quite beautiful too.” Frederick's head cocked to one side and he noiceably pouted as he pondered, the only beautiful images he had faded when he sobered up, as in from a 10 to a 2, and vomit was never pretty. β€œFrom what I have seen, a mans true heart comes out when he is drunk. In that sense, alcohol is like the key that unlocks the window of a persons true inhibitions.” Then it clicked in his head, he then chuckled at his previous imaginings and he smiled at her.
"Beautiful for you maybe, humourous to I imagine." He looked into her soft eyes, the soft colour and the innocence behind her words, made her all the more delicate than he first anticipated.

β€œI suppose it has its good and its bad. Is that an odd way to think of it?” Frederick chuckled, unsure of the intent for asking, but he offered her a smile.
"Not at all, in a sense it is true." His own honesty seemingly taking him by surprise. "I suppose it depends on the person, and why they're drinking."

As he trailed off, so to did the music, indicating they were to switch partners. "It would appear our time has come to an end," He glanced at the other dancers before returning his sights to Aurora. "'tis a shame, I was rather enjoying the discussion." He smiled at her, before letting her go and bowing to her. "It was a pleasure to have danced with you, lady Aurora, hopefully we shall see more of each other over the Summer."

Frederick fell back in line after saying his goodbyes to Aurora, he fell back in line and across from him now stood Clara Allyrion, the miracle child of the North, he didn't really know what that meant just that he'd heard Jonathan and their father discuss the family before. He stepped closer to her, a smile on his face, making his eyes softer and accenting his cheekbones. When she finally noticed him approaching, her reaction made him chuckle.
"Oh, I didn't see you there, My lord, You gave me a fright!"
"I guess, I'm just so unremarkable." He teased. "Especially if such a beauty doesn't notice me... Perhaps I should become a thief." His final comment more of a teasing ponder than an official disregarding of his life of luxury. He then bowed down to his her hand, her hands were soft and delicate, but there was a bump on one of her fingers, she had the hands of a writer. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Lady Clara." Frederick wasn't one for the proper way of address, if he is to marry one of these women, he should address them by their name, not the name simply inherited from their father.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lara Cavalier Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Rhaegar Castillon Character Portrait: Gwendolynn Castillon Character Portrait: Ilene Thatcher
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MARYNN DAVERNY
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Only Daughter | The Quarter Master
#567580 | Outfit
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BENJY DAVERNY
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Youngest Child | The First Mate
#5BA664 | Outfit
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HOWELL DAVERNY
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Eldest Son | The Swordsman
#DEAD83 | Outfit


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β€œThen we have much to learn from each other, Lord Howell. I’ll teach you about the South and you can teach me about the Misty Isles. But really, my life isn’t all that exciting. Farming is our staple and that is what we mostly deal with. We do a lot of trades and such so it is interesting to see the strangers that come by. The most exciting thing about the South is the forest if you want to explore it. The South is quiet and peaceful. Elliot often refers to it as β€˜boring’,” Exciting or not, Howell listened with his whole attention focused on her. The dance something done in the background, dips, and twirls automatically. He isn’t so easily battered as the rest of his family when it comes to being on land. He finds the contrast between their homes fascinating. Farming, for all its import, may be β€˜boring’ but it seems like honest work. Something that many of the people in the Isle’s can’t boast about. Trade and thievery the main source of their income. He could find plenty of room for an alliance between them, no doubt, and it helps that Ilene is so openly willing to speak to him. Maybe he could show her a thing or two about what it's like to be a pirate. Even if he is more of the proper sort.

The end of the dance comes far too fast for Howell’s taste, but alas, there are many people here tonight. And no reason to deny further interesting conversation. Especially since it seems his next partner is one of three reasons that the nobles have come to gather here. β€œI look forward to the chance to learn more about you and your Misty Isles,” Howell returns her smile, glad that his first dancing partner of the night was someone who did not harbor ill will or misinformed rumors β€œAs do I.” Before turning to his next partner for the night.

Gwendolynn is truly a sight to behold, and yet, beyond the obvious beauty is a spark of rebellion hiding in the shine of her eyes. Like recognizes like, despite Howell’s penchant for pretending at being truly proper. Or perhaps Howell is superimposing his own views of the situation. Were he to be under such strict supervision, he’d have certainly gone mad. Lady Elena is bad enough, he can’t imagine how much worse she’d be if she were a queen. He could tell that she, most of all, would most likely have plenty of interesting things to say. That, he has no doubts of. β€œLord Daverny.” She curtsies, and he bows back before he takes her hand lightly. Leading them into the dance with a newly practiced ease. Glad to have gotten the steps down between the first iteration and now.

β€œLady Castillon,” He smiles, channeling the easy charm that makes him who he is. β€œJust Howell is fine, we are here to get to know one another after all.” A true enough statement, though truthfully, Howell is already suffocating under how proper and put together this event is, the formality on top of that just makes it so much worse. β€œI hope you’ve been enjoying yourself, so to speak” Howell comments, β€œI know these events probably aren’t all that fun. Though I find it rather interesting that all of us have managed to be this mannered for so long – especially with so many clashing personalities in one space.” He wouldn’t mind something interesting happening, so long as it didn’t come from his family. They had enough issues here without demonizing themselves in front of the other nobles. As if their reputation weren’t already bad enough. It amuses him in a way, how easy it is to speak his mind when unencumbered with his siblings. They are too often the stifling force behind his own ability to relax.

~*~



The charming smile was not completely lost on her, and Marynn, for her worth did not pretend that he was not indeed charming. Though she still had to force her expressions, no amount of charm would change that. And she had no inclinations to pretend otherwise. Compliment or not. ”Well… whoever told me that all Daverny’s lost their intelligence from drinking that salt water was wrong.” He bowed and parted with a kiss on the hand, Marynn bid him farewell as per required, wondering if that had been a true compliment or more of a backhanded one. Whatever the case, she did not let her mask fall too far. "Let’s hope more rumors are disproved this night… What fun would a summer in the Keep be if we all already knew everything about each other.” Her lips quirked into a small smirk after that, β€œIndeed.” She spoke, though more aloud to herself than to him. It would simply be no fun if things turned out at clear cut as she had formerly assumed it would be. Nothing like a few surprises here and there to keep the waters from going stagnant. "Have a pleasant evening my lady.”

β€œAnd you, my lord.” She nodded, satisfied that she had in the least held her ground in words. Her skills at dancing may be wrought with fault, but she still had her tongue and the spark behind it. She took a few moments to breathe, relaxation far from mind. She could not drop the rigidity of her spine or the way her cheeks seemed to burn from the force of keeping up such a peasant expression. She is tired already, wanting to find somewhere to exercise her skills of hiding away for a while. But this event had only just begun, there was more to contend with in the coming few dances. Almost hilariously, she found that she was soon faced by the prince. Looking down the line, to where her brothers were, she could see that Howell too had been paired with one of the royal children. Something about that amused her, internally. Externally she curtsied, feeling a little out of her depth here.

He was grinning, and she could not tell if it was meant to mock or encourage. Either way, she steeled her resolve. ”A pleasure my lady Daverny.” He caught her almost off guard, there was no hint of a lie in his tone, so far as she could tell. And that gave her some pause, as he kissed her knuckles and offered his arm. ”How are your land legs faring you? I can imagine it’s quite different being in the Vale.”

β€œThis dance is tiring,” She spoke in truth, eyebrow raised as if to dare him to make a joke out of it. She had not yet sussed him out yet. Nothing separating the idea of who he is supposed to be from whom he really is. Marynn knows she shouldn’t judge so early on, but the urge is still there to bite. β€œOtherwise, I do quite fine on land. Would be better if I were not forced into wearing such dreadfully unwieldy clothing.” Her complaints were no doubt unoriginal, she couldn’t possibly be the only one uncomfortable with dressing out of their own style. Marynn at least, reinforced hers as best she could with the customizations she had made. Unwilling to play a role that she does not belong to, no matter who it was for. Something that her kin never seemed to understand. Still, she would have liked to have had some form of pants instead of this dreadfully long dress. Too damned easy to trip over.

β€œAnd you?” She doesn’t mean to sound harsh, though her words naturally fall from her lips in varying rough tones. Her smile, small and careless, hopefully, contradicts that. β€œHow are you faring, knowing that the ladies here are the only choices you have?” Marynn doesn’t realize how rude that sounds before its already out. There is no room for regret, however, not in her world. Perhaps he won’t take it as badly as she meant it.

~*~




β€œI would hold your tongue, pirate, else wise you may wake up one morning to find that it has gone missing.” Benjy raised both eyebrows in mock surprise, he had imagined a vicious response but truly, this was amusing. No doubt he’d have to be weary of the Thorne’s. Perhaps he should inform Marynn that he’s made enemies already – how delightful. She would at least get a kick out of it. Threats were her game usually, but he quite liked the feeling it gave him. The rush of excitement, and perhaps a tinge of fear.

Alas, his enjoyment of the situation only seemed to grow as the dance came to a close, and the partner change was upon them. β€œI’m quaking in my boots.” He muttered beneath his breath, long after Sylva had gone. He pitied whoever stepped into that one's war path and hoped that he would not have to be formally within her presence again. Next found himself standing in front of the Cavalier girl. He instantly found himself intrigued, if not only because she seemed much easier to get along with than Sylva. She was different in posture, the air of her seemed to reek of originality. Not to mention, she had practically come alone – parents notwithstanding – each of the other guests here have siblings of a similar age to contend with. β€œGreetings my lady,” He bows, turning up the dial on his charms as much as he can. Smile bright and careful. There was something like excitement in the way she fidgeted, he found it endearing and a good sign that he was not facing another rude dancing partner.

At least this girl has a more easy style, pretty, without being utterly terrifying in the process. Definitely of the kind he would usually pursue. As shallow as that may be.

β€œIs there anything you wish to speak of my lady?” He did not wish to dominate the conversation, less she feels put out by his boisterous nature.

Setting

Characters Present

Character Portrait: Seraphina Grayson Character Portrait: Sylva Thorne Character Portrait: Sylas Thorne Character Portrait: Vivienne Chaimbers Character Portrait: Rhaegar Castillon Character Portrait: Brom Castillon
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#, as written by mjolnir
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RHAEGAR CASTILLON
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Heir to Blackvale | The Falcon
#B70909 | Outfit
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BROM CASTILLON
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Prince | The Peacock
#061B62 | Outfit
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SYLAS THORNE
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Heir to Dark Wood | The Viper
#999999 | Outfit
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GWENDOLYNN CASTILLON
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Princess | The Little Dove
#F56E6F | Outfit


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"Lord Thorne," Vivienne said in response to Sylas' greeting. Her smile was quite convincing. To the unknowning or daft minded, she might have actually be convincing. But no matter, he did not care if she was happy to dance with him or looked at him like the scum on the bottom of her shoe. These trivial matters of matrimony and seducing dull women didn't thrill him. He played the game like a well bread noble. The one art he perfected was the art of deception. He looked, acted and talked like the charming young Lord he was raised to be. That was good enough. "The same could much be said of you."

Sylas tucked his left arm behind his back while his right held Vivienne's left hand. He glanced down momentarily at his attire. He raised his head with a slight smirk, glancing over at the blonde beside him from the corner of his eyes. "Ah, well thank you my lady. I hadn't noticed." A lie. Of course he noticed. Sylas was no idiot when it came to his own appearance. He was as vain as he was handsome but he also didn't not flaunt it around like a chauvinistic peacock either.

"Sometimes the most venomous snakes, have the most beautiful scales." The words nearly took Sylas by surprise almost stopping him mid-promenade. But it only made his smirk grow, taking on a more devious tone as he twirled the girl around and brought her close for the dance. "The Snake House, that's what your family is known as?"

Sylas chuckled as he let his gaze drift around the ballroom. When it landed upon Sylva he could see the tension that laid behind that strong visage of hers. He read her like a book, so he knew enough to sense her discomfort. He hated that he couldn't go to her but with so many prying eyes and appearances to uphold he had to remain well behaved. He looked back down at the disinteresting woman before him. "Clever girl.

He danced with her in silence for a long moment, twirling Vivienne a couple times. Sylas then decided to continue the conversation, "True in most cases. But, the Inland taipan is the deadliest snake in the world," He leader her around the ballroom effortlessly. His feet glided across the ground with purpose. "And it is no prettier that any other common snake. Being deadly isn't about being beautiful and bewitching, it's about being ordinary and invisible in plain sight."

Sylas looked about the ballroom yet again, this time taking in all the young lords and ladies. "It is better to be a predator than prey. A snake may be small, but it could overtake a stag, a swan, an armadillo and even with enough cunning and planning... A phoenix." His face remained cold and stoic, but his gaze fell to meet hers. He couldn't help but wonder if the gears were turning behind that tussle of blonde hair or if it sounded like the ocean between those ears. "United by blood, bound by stone." The smirk slowly returned to his lips, "A rock does not even enter the same arena."

***

The lady Seraphina curtsied before Brom then said, β€œPrince Castillon, what a pleasure… Though from the looks of that fake smile, you are having just as much fun as I am.” She chuckled and in returned caused himself to laugh as he began to lead her through the promenade and into the dance.

"Well, what is not to enjoy about spending an evening dancing with the most beautiful women in the kingdom?" He asked, giving her a twirl. As she returned to his arms, Brom pulled her in closer so that his voice was softer but still rough and enticing. "And for the record, my lady, this smile is all but fake. Unlike the majority of lords and ladies in this hall, I find no reason to be anything than what I am. Everyone knows the rumors about me and how I am. Why deny it or pretend to be anything I'm not?"

β€œAppearances are quite a hinderance. Especially in front of family.” The blonde was feisty, Brom liked that.

His smirk only seemed to grow with the comment. His attention was fully on her while his body mindlessly went through the moves and guided her effortlessly. "True, it does take far too long to get all primped and powdered for these sort of things. But... It is much more fun taking it off in the eve." Brom then winked down at her with a chuckle, "Especially when someone else is doing the removing."

Was Brom being too forward? Without a doubt. Did he care? Not the slightest. She seemed to come prepared for quips. Seraphina seemed the type to have a sharp tongue and sharper whit. Plus, everyone knew his reputation. And as he said, why deny it? A summer with all the finest women in the kingdom under his roof. It'd be foolish for him not to enjoy every moment of it before he became shackled in the bonds of marriage to potentially someone not of his choosing.

***

Howell bowed before Gwendolynn, then took her hand and lead her through the dance. "Lady Castillon," he finally said towards her, causing Gwen to smile slightly. β€œJust Howell is fine, we are here to get to know one another after all.”

"Well, just Howell," Gwen teased with a lighthearted smile. "You may call me Gwendolynn if you'd like, or Gwen... As long as my mother isn't around to scold me for being so informal." The thought of her mother's blood boiling at hearing another lord call her Gwen almost made her giggle. She hated all the formalities and pretenses her mother made her live up to. She constantly felt like she was suffocating under a mountain of things that she wasn't... And the corset didn't help.

β€œI hope you’ve been enjoying yourself, so to speak,” Howell commented. He was, no doubt, one of the more attractive lords in the vale for the summer. Some were too young for her liking or too... Proper. She couldn't imagine being forced to marry someone who was more vain than herself. Gwen was a handful and no doubt needing someone capable of taming her while also setting her free. Howell played the proper part well, but the roughness of his palms and his ease at removing titles from their conversation made her wonder how different he was from what he appeared. β€œI know these events probably aren’t all that fun. Though I find it rather interesting that all of us have managed to be this mannered for so long – especially with so many clashing personalities in one space.”

Gwen gave a soft sigh, "I suppose I'm enjoying it as much as I can when I'm being forced to choose my future husband from a pool of pre-chosen suitors." Her eyes widened when she realized how openly blunt and off putting she sounded. "No offense... It's not personal. I just don't do well with the idea of arranged marriages, or rules... or really anything related to being a Princess."

She remained quiet through the dance for a moment. Her eyes settled upon the different faces really soaking in all the different personalities Howell mentioned. "That is a surprise. I wouldn't mind something exciting happening... Anything that gets me out of this corset sooner," Gwen laughed softly as she glanced up at him. "But, how are you enjoying the Vale? I'm sure it's quite different compared to what you're used to on the water. I've never been on a ship or seen the ocean... The closest I've been is when my brothers and I would sneak out of the Keep at night to play in the fountains in the garden."

***

β€œThis dance is tiring,” Marynn answered Rhaegar with enough honesty that it made him smile and chuckle. She seemed different, in a nice way. She looked authentically herself which was a breath of fresh air in a ballroom filled with pretenders trying to present themselves in the best way to win his, or his siblings hand in marriage.

"It is," Rhaegar let out a soft sigh as he spoke. He caught some glimpses of Marynn dancing earlier and noticed it wasn't her strong suit. Not that he blamed her. If he was on a ship day in and day out, the last thing on his mind would have been learning a waltz. So, as he spun her, his left hand remained in the mid of her back to help guide in elegance. Not in a rude way but in a helpful manner, like a polite gentleman should do. "My mother made Brom, Gwen and I practice this dance before every meal since winter. 'You must be perfect' she'd tell us." Rhaegar smiled towards her, "I've done it so much that I could do it with my eyes closed. I was tired of it before the music started." He chuckled.

β€œOtherwise, I do quite fine on land. Would be better if I were not forced into wearing such dreadfully unwieldy clothing.”

Marynn's comment made Rhaegar laugh much in the way his sister did whenever she complained about being forced to be a lady. "You remind me of my sister. I do believe you both would get along quite well. She tried to convince me to wear the corset and dress on multiple occasions." Rhaegar lead her in steady circles around the ballroom, his gaze every so often checking upon his sister. He always worried about her. Brom, not so much. He worried more for the unfortunate women who had to dance with him. He looked back over Marynn with a smile. "At least you still are you, even if you have to wear a ridiculous dress." He motioned his hand to her adornments that she accented her outfit with.

β€œAnd you?" Marynn smiled towards him, and even though she seemed uncomfortable something said she was still sincere. β€œHow are you faring, knowing that the ladies here are the only choices you have?”

Rhaegar was silent for a long while. Not because her comment was rude, but the harsh reality that was constantly nagging at the back of his mind. "I'd be lying if I said I enjoy it." His smile faded slightly as he gave a shrug of his shoulders. "I do feel bad though. It is my fault... I kept disappearing whenever my parents tried to marry me off. I just wished they would have kept Brom and Gwen out of this. They deserve happiness, not to be forced to choose from a pool of suitors." He gave a halfhearted chuckle with a slight smile. "But not everyone hear seems blood thirsty for my hand. I much like your bluntness and honesty. It's hard to find authentic people in court."

***

Magnus could sense everything that Elizabeth felt when he spoke. He wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms, comfort her and be her rock. But he could not. In that moment he felt his heart sink as he watched his children. His wife was forcing their children to do the same thing he was forced to do... Spend their lives with someone they do not love. It sickened him but it was too late.

β€œYou know it was not I that left you…” Elizabeth's words were expected but cut deeply.

It took everything in Magnus not to turn and face her, to take her beautiful face in his hands and make her listen to his words. It's so much more complicated than that. She only knew a portion... The portion he let her know. He blamed himself every day for hurting her, and he still will until the end of his days. "Lizzie... You know it's not that simple."

He glanced down at the ground while his thumb stroked the top of her hand. Magnus knew she only agreed to walk with him because 'The King' asked. He hoped she actually wanted to see him and speak with him, but it was daft and stupid. He didn't deserve her forgiveness or even a glance. "Give me a chance to explain things to you this summer... I'll explain everything, please?"

Magnus did not wait for a response, he knew she'd want to think on it. His hand gently patter hers before he let her hand slip from his grasp. "You do not have to be tormented by my presence any further this evening. Return to your husband if that is what you wish. I do not desire to hurt you more than I already have. His gaze drifted to hers. It was a dream to see her and it made his heart swell and ache at the same time. She was more beautiful than ever and it killed him not to be able to hold her.