Introduction
It is in our nature to lie, to deceive. We are all too often driven by our ambition and greed rather than our love for other humans. A throne can pass from the hands of a benevolent king to those of a twisted dictator in just a second, and a head can roll in the next. The throne has held innumerable men and women, some kindly, some evil. The throne does not judge a man, though, for we have seen good men die at the hands of their loved ones while horrible men grow only more twisted in their ways.
This realm is not ours, but it began in a way similar to our own. Mankind inhabited what they called Tibera and quickly spread out, hunting and gathering. No man was content with this life, however. They settled down, and men appointed themselves leaders of the land they had no true right to. Tribes fought, and the fields ran red with blood. The petty feuds may have continued, and man might have wiped itself out had it not been for Frederick the Unifier. Though his name suggests otherwise, Frederick was a bloody man who only sought to take as much land as he could. In his quest, he managed to found the kingdom of Falor, and that is why the world remembers him as a hero.
Falor's borders expanded until they encompassed almost the entire kingdom, save the Far West. The West remained a cluster of independent clans for quite some time until, about one hundred years ago, it was unified under the rule of one war lord named Albrecht. He declared that the Far West, named Ostwall, would be governed by the most capable warrior so that corruption and monarchy would be avoided. Even the most intelligent of systems fail, however. The previous ruling family ruled unchallenged for fifty years.
That leaves Seabel, the newest of the kingdoms. For years, Falor and Ostwall lived with only minor border skirmishes. Two years ago, however, the previous king of Falor, Cedric Brigham, died in his sleep, leaving the throne to his teenage son. This would have been accepted by many, but the deceased monarch's daughter, his firstborn child, decided that she had more of a right to the throne. Falor split unevenly in a civil war that continues to this day.
Despite all of this, the kingdoms are preparing to convene in their decennial celebration of peace and unity in the Western Palace. How ironic. Even the youngest of children know that something is wrong. As tensions build and family is forsaken, no kingdom is safe.
The King of Falor may still be reeling from the sudden abandonment by his most trusted companion, his sister, but he also knows he has a kingdom to rule. Despite the reputation as a weak king he has earned for losing the newly formed Seabel, the king believes he will be able to fight back. With the assistance of his father's most trusted adviser, he has nothing to fear. If only that were true. The Count, Christoph, is one of the wealthiest men in Falor. Therefore, it did not come as a surprise when it was declared that his daughter would marry the young king. There are more sinister motives behind this action, however. Christoph is slowly moving closer to the throne, hoping to open it up for his family to claim when the time is right.
King Lucas Brigham || 19 || King of Falor || FC: Bradley James || TAKEN: xXxCryptic-AngelxXx
Lady Loria Estermont || 17 || Future Queen of Falor || FC: Emilia Clarke || TAKEN: Demai
Count Christoph Estermont || 47 || Royal Adviser and future father in law to the King of Falor || FC: Aidan Gillen || TAKEN: Scarlet Loup
Lady Mary Hardin || 28 || Christoph's Mistress || FC: Adelaide Kane || TAKEN: Sunshine and Whiskey
Chryseis Wulfston || 23 || Captain of Falor's Royal Guard || FC: Ruby Rose || TAKEN: Starlight77
The ruling family of Ostwall is led by the patriarch, Ulfric. Though he was born of common blood, Ulfric rose through the ranks as a ruthless warrior. Following tradition, Ulfric took the throne when the previous monarch proved too weak. His first wife was of more noble blood, and she mothered his three children. After her very recent death, Ulfric remarried and took a young noble from Falor as his bride. She is currently pregnant, and while that may be cause for celebration, it also worries her because she’s quite certain that it is really the child of Ronan, Ulfric’s son and her lover.
King Ulfric Bjornson || 51 || King of Ostwall || FC: Sean Bean || TAKEN: Scarlet Loup
Queen Genevieve Hansdottir || 18 || Queen of Ostwall || FC: Natalie Dormer || TAKEN: Inuiri
Prince Ronan Ulfricson || 23 || Heir to the throne of Ostwall || FC: Henry Cavill || TAKEN: Scarlet Loup
Princess Adelaide Ulfricdottir || 19 || Older princess of Ostwall || FC: Anna Popplewell || TAKEN: AvengerSpirit
Theran Ulfricson || 21 || Ulfric’s Ward and Bastard, Noble || FC: Kit Harington || TAKEN: AvengerSpirit
Princess Cedany Ulfricdottir || 14 || Younger princess of Ostwall || FC: Maisie Williams || TAKEN: xXxCryptic-AngelxXx
In times as turbulent as these, one needs as much support as they can receive. The Queen of Seabel turns toward her husband and daughter for this support, but even those close to a person can easily become corrupt. Though their marriage was once one of love and passion, the King finds himself more and more angered by the way his wife fails to treat him as her complete equal. Whether or not she does this intentionally is unknown, but it has caused him to stray from her and look toward her lady in waiting for solace. Little does he know that she has also grown closer to the captain of the royal guard who happens to be the son of her brother’s advisor.
Queen Juliana Auclair || 25 || Queen of Seabel || FC: Holliday Grainger || TAKEN: Sunshine and Whiskey
King Cyprian Auclair || 31 || Royal Consort/King of Seabel || FC: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau || TAKEN: Scarlet Loup
Princess Giselle Auclair || 7 || Princess of Seabel || FC: Georgie Henley || TAKEN: °ẞ0llisīic°
Lady Eleora de Croismare || 26 || Lady in Waiting to the Queen of Seabel || FC: Eleanor Tomlinson || TAKEN: Demai
Captain Loras Estermont || 24 || Captain of Seabel’s Royal Guard || FC: Chris Hemsworth || TAKEN: Demai
Corinna Auclair || 27 || Sister to King Cyprian Auclair || FC: Sophie Turner || TAKEN: Scarlet Loup
Capheus Auclair || 26 || Brother to King Cyprian Auclair || FC: Robert Madden || TAKEN: Demai
Asten Swann || 20 || Stable Boy || FC: Harry Lloyd || TAKEN: Inuiri
The Story So Far... Write a Post » as written by 8 authors
There had been a time, years ago, when this gathering had been a joyous event, something that Ostwall and Falor looked forward to together. It was an exchange of ideas and entertainment, and Cyprian had loved each and every one he had attended - except for, perhaps, his first, for he had only been a babe and had no recollection of it. Or now, at thirty-one. It didn't seem right, standing among men his soldiers - Loras' soldiers - had been fighting until just months ago. But not much felt right these days.
There had also been a time when Cyprian had been a man, a man worthy of titles and honor, a man who led his troops into battle with a gleam in his eyes and the weight of a sword in his hand. He was a man now, he told himself, but he walked before what seemed to be an endless procession of noble families rather than his soldiers.
The royal families of Ostwall and of Falor had arrived this morning, bringing far too many courtiers and servants along to be supported in the Western Palace. It made him uneasy, and he was certain the other members of his household felt it as well. Housing one's enemies always proved to be a sticky situation.
But they were here now, in a ballroom that had been built to house these royal and noble families with ease. It was an architectural feat, something Cyprian pondering sometimes when he wandered in alone. The walls on each side were lined with floor to ceiling windows that could be opened just like doors, and they had been so that a cool breeze blew through the hall. Each side led to another half of the gardens. One end of the hall sported large wooden doors that led into the throne room, while the other side housed a magnificent staircase to the second level. The gilded hall rang with music, each song blending into the other in a manner that allowed the mood of the evening to stay lively and spirited. The first night had, since he could remember, started with a masquerade ball.
Cyprian had removed himself from the dance and stood against a window. The drapes had not been drawn despite it being night, and so he was able to glance outward as he adjusted his mask. How he wished to return to his room...or to find Ellie.
But he couldn't simply seek her out now - surely, his guests would notice. That was the issue with nobility - they made sure to learn each and every piece of gossip. And so, he would wait instead, looking out at the garden and hoping his love would come by for just a moment. That was all he needed.
He couldn't tell if he liked these events or not. The last time Ronan had attended, he had been a lad of thirteen. He recalled very little from the event except for the single hunt he had been allowed on by his father. Freya hadn't wanted it, had pleaded Ulfric not to let the boy attend, but Ulfric had insisted, pointed out that another boy just a year older than he would ride with them. Ronan supposed that was one of the few good memories he had managed to forge with his father.
Now, he was twenty-three, and he knew that whatever his father had tried to forge in that brief father-son encounter had been superficial. Likely, Ulfric had only taken Ronan because he pitied the young prince. Ronan huffed in annoyance and tightened his fingers around the stem of the goblet in his hand. No, that was certainly it. Pity.
Well, he didn't want it or need it. In fact, perhaps he would have pitied Ulfric, but he didn't. Even as he watched Genevieve from across the ballroom, he felt no regret, no sense of wrongdoing. It was simply what his father deserved. He certainly didn't deserve her.
Ronan brushed a hand against his mask for a moment, ensuring it was in place before he started to walk towards Genevieve. He came just steps away from her, was about to invite her to dance, when his father stepped in, effectively cutting him off from his love.
He too had watched Genevieve, but not out of spite for another person or even out of love. Ulfric noticed the way she moved, the grace with which she conducted herself as she moved in and out of the nobles, exchanging greetings with whomever she passed. It was a bitter reminder of Freya, and he grimaced to himself behind his mask. He wasn't sure he could call what he felt "love", but it was a strong emotion. An affection, if anything. His new wife was a gem in a wasteland like Ostwall. Sometimes he regretted taking her as his, but she had fit in well afterwards, he reassured himself.
Couples whirled around him to the beat of the music, and he seemed to slowly come to his senses, blinking a few times as he looked about. He could see a few others who had stopped moving and taken to the wall like he had, but he knew he was out of place. He'd been out of place each time he attended one of these events. And he thoughts were brought back to Genevieve, to how effortlessly she managed to make herself relevant. Perhaps he ought to approach her. It was the kind thing to do.
The last time he had attended, Freya had been with him, and the two danced the night away. He had never been a lithe man, was never made to waltz, but he had embarrassed himself just to hear the way she laughed gleefully each time he nearly crushed her toe or caught on her dress. He hoped he could find that with Genevieve. And so he approached the young woman, clearing his throat now with a soft cough.
"Would you...care to dance?" he inquired, hesitating for a few heartbeats before extending his hand, oblivious to Ronan who clenched his fists behind the older man, boring holes into Ulfric's head with just his gaze.
Unlike his peers, Christoph Estermont looked forward to balls and galas such as this one. He enjoyed the way people attempted to whisper, effectively spilling out secrets and gossip that truly never should have sullied the air of the ballroom. But if it hadn't, how would he enjoy himself?
He flitted about in an almost bird-like manner, dancing with a noble woman here, entertaining a group over a drink there. He fit in almost perfectly in the atmosphere. That was what made him such a formidable opponent. Christoph could wait for the moment to show itself, allow the opportunity to mature like a fine wine, and strike all before he was even noticed. It was an art he had perfected, one he had tried to teach his children since they'd learned to walk and talk.
Christoph thought of the two now - Loria and Loras. It had been two years since he'd spoken to his son. Their correspondence was brief and to the point, disclosing little more than well-wishes and bits of borrowed wisdom. But he had time to speak with Loras, and so he shrugged it off as he continued moving through the crowds, eyes darting beneath his own mask. He noted to himself that this would be his fifth, for he had attended the celebrations first as a seven year old, back when he was a scrawny young boy who the nurses hadn't expected to live. His brother had been there, as well - a strapping lad who was everything his father had wanted. What a shame he had gone and died, really, but Christoph had reckoned long ago that it was likely better for the family. Or for him, really.
He stopped now by one of the windows, enjoying the way the breeze blew into his face from the gardens, carrying the scent of so many flowers into the hall. Perhaps he'd go for a walk later, walk among the hedges and flowers. There were only so many secrets he could handle at once.
The ballroom was gorgeous, Ellie couldn’t deny that if she tried. She could linger by any one of those pillars for ages, tracing the intricate carvings and just resting her hand against the cool marble. The ceilings were absolutely transfixing, painted with clouds and bright colors. She was only so tall, though, and she wouldn’t be touching that anytime soon. Her mistress was dancing and socializing as she was wont to do, and Ellie glanced back to her with a soft little smile, making sure that she was still happy and entertained. She loved her mistress, truly, but...
Well. There was one she loved more, one more beautiful than all these paintings and pillars. She felt horribly girlish in that thought, naive and young. She’d heard story after story about women like her being caught up in affairs and then left behind in the dust, pregnant and destitute. Their children sometimes had power, but as a mother, all they had was stories and hate for the man who had done such to her family and fame.
Ellie desperately hoped that Cyprian was different. He certainly seemed different. He was just as wondrous as the ceilings that arced above them... and sometimes, he felt just as far away. At that moment, though, without wife or child by his side, he seemed to be within reach. She stepped forward, her footsteps lost in the sounds of dancing feet stomping the floor into submission and the laughter of the nobles. Knotting her hands before her, she paused beside Cyprian, gazing out the window with a smile. The stars were out, and it looked amazing outdoors. The moon had risen long ago, and it smiled down on them with a catlike grin. Automatically, her eyes sought out her favorite constellation, one that others had dubbed the Angel but that always resembled a butterfly to her eyes. She longed to go outside, to take a breath of the night air. Perhaps the two of them could slip away at some point...
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” She asked in that gentle accent of hers, looking towards the man she adored with that smile still present. The gardens were certainly different from the raucous sounds of the dance floor, cool and dark where inside the ballroom was lit with fires and candles and warm with the sheer amount of people that were stuffed into every corner. She longed to reach out and touch his shoulder, to draw him into a hug, but she knew just as well as he that they couldn’t risk rumors.
Well. There was one she loved more, one more beautiful than all these paintings and pillars. She felt horribly girlish in that thought, naive and young. She’d heard story after story about women like her being caught up in affairs and then left behind in the dust, pregnant and destitute. Their children sometimes had power, but as a mother, all they had was stories and hate for the man who had done such to her family and fame.
Ellie desperately hoped that Cyprian was different. He certainly seemed different. He was just as wondrous as the ceilings that arced above them... and sometimes, he felt just as far away. At that moment, though, without wife or child by his side, he seemed to be within reach. She stepped forward, her footsteps lost in the sounds of dancing feet stomping the floor into submission and the laughter of the nobles. Knotting her hands before her, she paused beside Cyprian, gazing out the window with a smile. The stars were out, and it looked amazing outdoors. The moon had risen long ago, and it smiled down on them with a catlike grin. Automatically, her eyes sought out her favorite constellation, one that others had dubbed the Angel but that always resembled a butterfly to her eyes. She longed to go outside, to take a breath of the night air. Perhaps the two of them could slip away at some point...
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” She asked in that gentle accent of hers, looking towards the man she adored with that smile still present. The gardens were certainly different from the raucous sounds of the dance floor, cool and dark where inside the ballroom was lit with fires and candles and warm with the sheer amount of people that were stuffed into every corner. She longed to reach out and touch his shoulder, to draw him into a hug, but she knew just as well as he that they couldn’t risk rumors.
To an outsider Genevieve’s motions probably looked beautiful, watching her flit about speaking to everyone she could with a smile on her face, grey eyes lighting up under her mask with every person she spoke to.
Truly, she was horrified. She wanted nothing more than to run and hide in her lover’s arms and weep. With every step she glanced over her shoulder in terror, trying to keep a look out for the man who had ruined her life.
Her Father.
This was Seabal, no ball of her own, Genevieve couldn’t control the people invited the way she could in Ostwall. So from the moment she arrived and spotted him she had frantically separated from her husband in a desperate attempt to not be spotted by her abuser. A tiny bit of her hoped the mask would be enough to hide her, but her golden brown locks stood out, especially with their length.
In her terrified, hypersensitive state, her heart leapt out of her chest when she heard footsteps approaching. She flinched and turned, spotting Ronan and almost bawling with relief at the sight of him only for… Him to step in. She schooled the pitiful look on her face as she gazed up at Ulfric, close to shaking at how close he was to her. He was easy to pick out. Ostwall looked so different than everywhere else, her family stuck out like sore thumbs among the other royalty.
Still, Genevieve managed a smile for the man she didn’t love. “I..” She stammered pitifully at the offer. This certainly threw her entire night off it’s track. Ulfric wanting to dance had never been part of her itinerary, but neither had her father’s appearance… Still, she wasn’t going to be rude to him. He had never been rude to her. “Yes. That sounds lovely.” Genevieve told him gently, taking his hand and squeezing it lightly, despite her heart still feeling like it would explode out of terror.
Truly, she was horrified. She wanted nothing more than to run and hide in her lover’s arms and weep. With every step she glanced over her shoulder in terror, trying to keep a look out for the man who had ruined her life.
Her Father.
This was Seabal, no ball of her own, Genevieve couldn’t control the people invited the way she could in Ostwall. So from the moment she arrived and spotted him she had frantically separated from her husband in a desperate attempt to not be spotted by her abuser. A tiny bit of her hoped the mask would be enough to hide her, but her golden brown locks stood out, especially with their length.
In her terrified, hypersensitive state, her heart leapt out of her chest when she heard footsteps approaching. She flinched and turned, spotting Ronan and almost bawling with relief at the sight of him only for… Him to step in. She schooled the pitiful look on her face as she gazed up at Ulfric, close to shaking at how close he was to her. He was easy to pick out. Ostwall looked so different than everywhere else, her family stuck out like sore thumbs among the other royalty.
Still, Genevieve managed a smile for the man she didn’t love. “I..” She stammered pitifully at the offer. This certainly threw her entire night off it’s track. Ulfric wanting to dance had never been part of her itinerary, but neither had her father’s appearance… Still, she wasn’t going to be rude to him. He had never been rude to her. “Yes. That sounds lovely.” Genevieve told him gently, taking his hand and squeezing it lightly, despite her heart still feeling like it would explode out of terror.
Ris had never been the biggest fan of dances, but she couldn’t deny that this one was entertaining from the second she stepped into the ballroom by her fiance’s side. They’d been basically locked in a metaphorical closet together for the past little while in hopes of their getting along, and she hated to admit that it was working a little--the annoying kid from their younger years was growing up, and he was actually endearing. What had her life become?
In any case, she had other things to worry about right then, such as finding her brother. Her father was easy to find, he was constantly in motion. Her gaze flicked to him, and she offered up a little smile. She saw him often, as he was Lucas’ advisor, and so she soon moved on, looking with baited breath for her older brother.
Loras almost stumbled when the blur of blue dress and white hair ran into him, and then he was crowing his sister’s name and plucking her straight up off the ground. They both dissolved into laughter, hugging tight to each other and marveling over how the other looked. Loras tugged on her sleeve playfully, and she whacked his shoulder in revenge. Up until that point, Loras had been dancing with various women who were not Juliana, and wishing that she or Ris were there right then. Well, the queen was present, but she was far away from him. He wondered if she remembered him... Hell. He wondered if his own father remembered him, Christoph was busy staring out at the gardens right then. Maybe he should approach him later...
But his mind would not be worried that night. He had his sister once more, and he was there and that was enough for then. It was. “Care to dance?” He teased, and Ris gave him an terribly amused look before concern entered her gaze. She knew her brother, she knew when he was anxious or lost in thought.
“What’s the matter?” She asked quietly, and he offered up a smile, before exhaling slowly and glancing away.
“You know what’s the matter.” He murmured, and her gaze softened. They stood still together for a moment, in the middle of the dance floor, before he spun her around, catching her off guard and making her laugh. "I'll tell you everything soon." He promised. Letters were wonderful, but there was always the chance of them being read midway through transportation. Ris bit her bottom lip before nodding in agreement. They'd have time. It took moments for the two of them to start dancing again, joining the circle of skirts and laughter that spun all around the dance floor.
In any case, she had other things to worry about right then, such as finding her brother. Her father was easy to find, he was constantly in motion. Her gaze flicked to him, and she offered up a little smile. She saw him often, as he was Lucas’ advisor, and so she soon moved on, looking with baited breath for her older brother.
Loras almost stumbled when the blur of blue dress and white hair ran into him, and then he was crowing his sister’s name and plucking her straight up off the ground. They both dissolved into laughter, hugging tight to each other and marveling over how the other looked. Loras tugged on her sleeve playfully, and she whacked his shoulder in revenge. Up until that point, Loras had been dancing with various women who were not Juliana, and wishing that she or Ris were there right then. Well, the queen was present, but she was far away from him. He wondered if she remembered him... Hell. He wondered if his own father remembered him, Christoph was busy staring out at the gardens right then. Maybe he should approach him later...
But his mind would not be worried that night. He had his sister once more, and he was there and that was enough for then. It was. “Care to dance?” He teased, and Ris gave him an terribly amused look before concern entered her gaze. She knew her brother, she knew when he was anxious or lost in thought.
“What’s the matter?” She asked quietly, and he offered up a smile, before exhaling slowly and glancing away.
“You know what’s the matter.” He murmured, and her gaze softened. They stood still together for a moment, in the middle of the dance floor, before he spun her around, catching her off guard and making her laugh. "I'll tell you everything soon." He promised. Letters were wonderful, but there was always the chance of them being read midway through transportation. Ris bit her bottom lip before nodding in agreement. They'd have time. It took moments for the two of them to start dancing again, joining the circle of skirts and laughter that spun all around the dance floor.
A collab between Inuiri and Demai
From outside, even still, the sounds of the party could be heard, echoing across the sky in a boasting manner. Asten didn’t mind much. He had never been to a ball, but maybe one day he could. For now he was content to sit in the stable, away from the others. He might have been fine waiting out the grand affair, but he knew very well Capheus wouldn’t, and would probably be out any moment now.
Capheus could barely remember the last time they’d had one of these dances, and he was almost bouncing on his feet as he got ready. He was relatively sure that he hadn’t forgotten anything, and he had the ribbons to an extra mask tied around his wrist. His own mask was pushed up into his curls, a couple ringlets sticking out through the eyeholes. He hummed as he glanced in the mirror, then he picked up the (conveniently too small) clothes that he had set aside and was out the door, going straight towards where he knew a certain stable boy would be.
Asten had told him time and time again to enjoy himself at the ball, he would really be fine out here. He was quite content right now, sitting cross legged in the grass with Beans by his side, petting her absentmindedly as he examined his little collection of rocks. No. Minerals. They were Minerals. He was happy. So much so he didn’t even hear his beloved approaching.
The tortoiseshell blinked slowly in response as her master ran his fingers over a soft pink colored stone, wishing he had the proper tools to polish it and see it in all its glory. Maybe some day. He set it aside gently and moved to the next one. Maybe if he asked nicely he could peek at the books in the library and Capheus could teach him the names of the stones.
Capheus was going to feed that cat something delicious as soon as he possibly could. His feet made just enough sound in the grass to give Asten the tiniest bit of warning, and then Capheus was crowing his name and picking him straight up off the ground, spinning him around and then hugging him tight. “Hello there!” He laughed.
Asten’s head snapped up as his brow furrowed right before he was scooped up, kicking and squealing as he tried to get out of his grip. He giggled, wrapping his arms tight around him and nuzzling his forehead to his. “I thought I told you to stay inside.” He scolded softly, running his thumb over his cheek.
Capheus chuckled, stealing a quick kiss and then giving him an entirely innocent look. “I must not have heard you,” He teased in response. He leaned into his touch a little, kissing his palm softly. “I didn’t want to go without you.” He admitted quietly. “And besides, who else is going to help me steal all the food?”
“You know I can’t go in there.” Asten sighed, shifting and slipping from his arms, taking both his hands and squeezing them lightly. “Now,” He hummed with an air of finality, turning him and pushing the small of his back towards the castle. “You go back in there and have a good night. I’ll be just fine out here.”
Capheus looked over his shoulder, giving his beloved an utterly devastated look. “I brought a mask and everything for you.” His voice had taken on a note of pleading, even though his eyes were bright and a little mirthful. Tonight was a night to be happy, or at least try to be. He turned again, finding his hands and squeezing them. “Just for a little?” He begged, searching his gaze.
Asten chewed the inside of his lip uneasily in thought, sighing softly. If he was unrecognizable… Where was the harm in it? He smiled after a few moments of silent consideration and leaned up to kiss him softly. “Alright.” He whispered in defeat. “Lead on.”
Capheus waited with baited breath while he thought, trying to resist the urge to attempt to bribe him into coming with kisses. He kissed him back, and then his whole expression lit up at his words. He hugged him tight before the last word was even out of his mouth, kissing him soundly once more and then tugging him towards where he had set the mask. “Thank you,” He told him, his tone both earnest and adoring.
Asten giggled gleefully as he was dragged along, hugging onto him and nuzzling at his shoulder. “I love you.” he whispered gently, damaged fingers tracing his jaw lightly. “I look like a mess though.” Asten pointed out, pausing when they reached the clothes, eyes widening at their quality. But he agreed. He would let Capheus spoil him for tonight.
“I love you too.” He murmured, gazing down at his beloved with a soft smile. “I’m entirely willing to steal you away for a bath first,” Capheus teased, picking up the mask and then the other clothes, slinging them over his shoulder. “And besides, you always look beautiful.” He promised, leaning over to steal another kiss.
The stable boy couldn’t quite help how he perked up at the mention of a bath with his lover. “That sounds nice.” he whispered gently, running his thumb over Capheus’ knuckles as he held their joined hands to his chest, heading off for the castle.
Capheus could barely remember the last time they’d had one of these dances, and he was almost bouncing on his feet as he got ready. He was relatively sure that he hadn’t forgotten anything, and he had the ribbons to an extra mask tied around his wrist. His own mask was pushed up into his curls, a couple ringlets sticking out through the eyeholes. He hummed as he glanced in the mirror, then he picked up the (conveniently too small) clothes that he had set aside and was out the door, going straight towards where he knew a certain stable boy would be.
Asten had told him time and time again to enjoy himself at the ball, he would really be fine out here. He was quite content right now, sitting cross legged in the grass with Beans by his side, petting her absentmindedly as he examined his little collection of rocks. No. Minerals. They were Minerals. He was happy. So much so he didn’t even hear his beloved approaching.
The tortoiseshell blinked slowly in response as her master ran his fingers over a soft pink colored stone, wishing he had the proper tools to polish it and see it in all its glory. Maybe some day. He set it aside gently and moved to the next one. Maybe if he asked nicely he could peek at the books in the library and Capheus could teach him the names of the stones.
Capheus was going to feed that cat something delicious as soon as he possibly could. His feet made just enough sound in the grass to give Asten the tiniest bit of warning, and then Capheus was crowing his name and picking him straight up off the ground, spinning him around and then hugging him tight. “Hello there!” He laughed.
Asten’s head snapped up as his brow furrowed right before he was scooped up, kicking and squealing as he tried to get out of his grip. He giggled, wrapping his arms tight around him and nuzzling his forehead to his. “I thought I told you to stay inside.” He scolded softly, running his thumb over his cheek.
Capheus chuckled, stealing a quick kiss and then giving him an entirely innocent look. “I must not have heard you,” He teased in response. He leaned into his touch a little, kissing his palm softly. “I didn’t want to go without you.” He admitted quietly. “And besides, who else is going to help me steal all the food?”
“You know I can’t go in there.” Asten sighed, shifting and slipping from his arms, taking both his hands and squeezing them lightly. “Now,” He hummed with an air of finality, turning him and pushing the small of his back towards the castle. “You go back in there and have a good night. I’ll be just fine out here.”
Capheus looked over his shoulder, giving his beloved an utterly devastated look. “I brought a mask and everything for you.” His voice had taken on a note of pleading, even though his eyes were bright and a little mirthful. Tonight was a night to be happy, or at least try to be. He turned again, finding his hands and squeezing them. “Just for a little?” He begged, searching his gaze.
Asten chewed the inside of his lip uneasily in thought, sighing softly. If he was unrecognizable… Where was the harm in it? He smiled after a few moments of silent consideration and leaned up to kiss him softly. “Alright.” He whispered in defeat. “Lead on.”
Capheus waited with baited breath while he thought, trying to resist the urge to attempt to bribe him into coming with kisses. He kissed him back, and then his whole expression lit up at his words. He hugged him tight before the last word was even out of his mouth, kissing him soundly once more and then tugging him towards where he had set the mask. “Thank you,” He told him, his tone both earnest and adoring.
Asten giggled gleefully as he was dragged along, hugging onto him and nuzzling at his shoulder. “I love you.” he whispered gently, damaged fingers tracing his jaw lightly. “I look like a mess though.” Asten pointed out, pausing when they reached the clothes, eyes widening at their quality. But he agreed. He would let Capheus spoil him for tonight.
“I love you too.” He murmured, gazing down at his beloved with a soft smile. “I’m entirely willing to steal you away for a bath first,” Capheus teased, picking up the mask and then the other clothes, slinging them over his shoulder. “And besides, you always look beautiful.” He promised, leaning over to steal another kiss.
The stable boy couldn’t quite help how he perked up at the mention of a bath with his lover. “That sounds nice.” he whispered gently, running his thumb over Capheus’ knuckles as he held their joined hands to his chest, heading off for the castle.
“I’ll be right back, ”, she said and disappeared into the crowd. "As you wish!" He called after her, though whether or not she heard him he would never know. Lucas found himself wanting to stick to her side for the night, but knew it was better to move around and socialize. Besides, there was one person he really wanted to see. Even if she didn't want to see him. His blue eyes gazed about the room searching for her, his sister, Juliana. He noticed her husband by the windows talking to her lady in waiting which he found odd, but thought little of it otherwise and continued in his search.
And then he saw her. She was standing with others off to one side, laughing and socializing. He suddenly found himself feeling nervous. As a child she paid him no mind, but now, would she also dismiss him? They needed to talk. He needed to understand why she left. Why she abandoned him. It was a stupid worry, he was a man now after all, but he had always adored his sister and looked up to her. He could never understand why she hated him so. And he knew she did. He could see it in her eyes every time he attempted to show her any kind of brotherly love. He bit his lip, a habit since he was a child, and then walked towards his sister.
A servant entered his path and offered a goblet of wine. He took it and thanked the servant, though it was frowned upon to give them such attention. It was their job. They didn't need gratitude, but it was just who he was. His father long gave up that teaching to him. At the thought of his father, his scar throbbed, but he ignored it and focused on the task at hand. Confronting his sister. He took a long swig of wine and took a deep breath.
"Your Majesty," He said with a bow. "My compliments on the beauty of your new home. I dare say it's more spectacular than home." He set the, now empty, goblet of wine on a nearby table and offered her his hand. He wasn't entirely sure that she recognized him now, especially with his mask. "My dear, Juliana, would you do me the honor of having this dance with me?" With his eyes, he pleaded with her. Please dear sister they begged, I must speak to you.
She peaked out and nearly gasped at the sight of Lord Auclair, the king's brother, and the stable boy in entirely intimate conversation. At first, he thought how rich this information could make her. Then she decided against it. While being homosexual was frowned upon widely in their time, Cedany didn't really mind it. She was unsure herself whom she would give her heart to. She found girls beautiful and boys handsome, but neither tickled her nethers.. so to speak. At least, not yet. She decided that she wouldn't mentioned what she saw to a single person beyond the two subjects themselves. If only to give them someone to talk to. While they were technically the enemy, this gathering is meant to be one of peace and peace she would offer. Maybe, or maybe she'd just keep it to herself.
She smiled and backed away from where she had been hiding. She decided to take a different path to the ballroom and allow them some time alone.
Once she arrived at the party and was announced to the room, she went looking for her favorite person. Her older brother, Ronan. She had thought about sharing what she had seen, but decided against it. Just because he had a forbidden love didn't mean he needed to know about the love of others. She had arrived just in time to see her father whisk away her brother's love leaving him angry and alone. She frowned, her heart aching for her brother. She watched Genevieve and her father dance a moment before she ran towards her brother.
"Ronan!" She squealed, throwing her arms around his neck. "Isn't this place grand?" She pulled him closer and whispered into his ear so only he could hear her words. "I'm sorry your heart aches brother. If there anything I can do to make your dreams come true, you only have to say so." She pulled back and smiled at him. A finger to her lips. She winked at him and said, "I'm capable of more than you think, and I hear more than you know."
With that, she disappeared into the crowd in search of some sweet treats and maybe someone to dance with. Unfortunately, there weren't many boys her age. Or girls. The only person closest in age to her was the princess of the kingdom, Giselle, and she was much younger. Ah well she thought. I'll just dance with myself then. No whirlwind romances for this princess.
A room full of strangers, all of them drinking, all of them wearing masks. Wulf clenched her jaw in frustration. The amount of danger in this room was… astounding. The mask on her face shifted as she scrunched up her nose in disgust. A servant walked over and offered her and her king, who stood beside her, a drink; the young man took one while she waved the woman away. So much risk in one place, she needed to have her senses as sharp as ever.
“I’ll be right back.” Wulf shifted her steely gaze to the king’s soon-to-be wife. The small woman intrigued her to no end. She was a gorgeous specimen, with her porcelain skin, pure white hair, and bright blue eyes, but she also had a brain in her head. Wulf’s fierce glare followed her into the crowd, a slight scowl on her face. The farther she was away, the less likely Wulf would be able to help her in case of some sort of emergency.
The movement of Lucas jolted Wulf from her concerned trance. Her king wandered off as well, which worried her. But the fact that he was seeking out his older sister fretted her more. With a sigh she followed the blond slowly, making sure to keep some distance between them. There were some situations where having a body guard would make a king seem stronger, but right now, Lucas needed to strut all that he had learned.
Navigating through a crowd of semi-drunk nobles isn’t as easy as one would think. She had to push past dancers and servers alike whilst keeping her king in the corner of her field of view. That was until she, quite literally, ran into someone. “My apologies, sir-” She paused to visually take in the person before her. Tall, muscular, blond hair, not to mention dancing with the king’s soon to be wife. “Ah, sorry once again, Captain.” She took her hand off the hilt of her sheathed sword to place it on her chest and bow her head respectfully. “And good evening to you again, lady Loria.” Wulf bowed once more to her future queen.
“I’ll be right back.” Wulf shifted her steely gaze to the king’s soon-to-be wife. The small woman intrigued her to no end. She was a gorgeous specimen, with her porcelain skin, pure white hair, and bright blue eyes, but she also had a brain in her head. Wulf’s fierce glare followed her into the crowd, a slight scowl on her face. The farther she was away, the less likely Wulf would be able to help her in case of some sort of emergency.
The movement of Lucas jolted Wulf from her concerned trance. Her king wandered off as well, which worried her. But the fact that he was seeking out his older sister fretted her more. With a sigh she followed the blond slowly, making sure to keep some distance between them. There were some situations where having a body guard would make a king seem stronger, but right now, Lucas needed to strut all that he had learned.
Navigating through a crowd of semi-drunk nobles isn’t as easy as one would think. She had to push past dancers and servers alike whilst keeping her king in the corner of her field of view. That was until she, quite literally, ran into someone. “My apologies, sir-” She paused to visually take in the person before her. Tall, muscular, blond hair, not to mention dancing with the king’s soon to be wife. “Ah, sorry once again, Captain.” She took her hand off the hilt of her sheathed sword to place it on her chest and bow her head respectfully. “And good evening to you again, lady Loria.” Wulf bowed once more to her future queen.
There wasn’t much that could be worse than right now. Adelaide was being forced to be a lady, a real lady, wearing fancy gowns and jewels. She was pretending to be something she wasn’t. Sometimes she felt the other person in their entire family that still enjoyed things like this were Ronan. Their mother of course never minded them, but she was far from the unruly children she had birthed. Why couldn’t it have been acceptable for her not to come at all? Oh right because this is how noblewomen found suitors. Right, cause that’s what she wanted. A suitor for her to be married off to like a horse so she could produce little nobles to carry on names she really didn’t care about. Addy wasn’t the only one in her family who held the same opinion.
If her father didn’t know what she was wearing, the young woman likely would have disappeared already even if it simply meaning escaping to the gardens. Maybe she could find Annie and use her as an excuse to leave the party. Certainty her younger sister was getting into some kind of mischief that needed to be corralled. Speaking of little sister, she heard a voice she knew all too well from across the room.
Turning her attention to the girl she also found her brother. With a shake of her head she watched the two of them with a small smile on her face before tracking where Cedany had run off too. She was right about one thing. Her sister was always getting into something. Adelaide had to admit though; the teenager looked beautiful in her gown. While, she believed that she stuck out even worse than the younger Ulfricdottir. Her gown from mostly red with lots of beading. It was heavy – she hated that the most. It too was beautiful, but she would have much rather worn one of the plain blue or green ones.
With so many people here, so much royalty, and so much hate it was a miracle no one was ever hurt with more than just words. A skill she believed she would never master. With a shrug of her shoulders she headed off towards where she’d last seen her sister knowing someone needed to keep an eye on the girl and if it got herself out of the gala she would more than welcome the reprieve.
The ballroom was grand, airy, inviting, and bright. All the people with their colorful clothing and fast movements were a sight to behold. Yet, Theran wished he didn’t have to partake. There was always the possibility his mother or grandfather should he still be living would be in attendance. They alone were really the only reasons that he didn’t want to be here. There was without a shadow of a doubt the woman wouldn’t hold back anything about showing her distain in him while in the mist of all these people – a scene he wanted to avoid at all costs.
His maternal side apart he had always wanted to go and really be involved. Yes, he was a bastard, but being a noble regardless of status still meant it was his right. And since he was carrying his father’s last name in many ways he was just another son of Ulfric, only one that would never inherit the throne and for that he was thankful.
He had watched almost every one all night, from Falor to Seabel and even his own blood. That was when he caught movement out of the corner of his eye, a figure he knew much too well. He laughed to himself as he walked over to see Cedany had made it to the food.
“The last thing you need to do is pig out on sweets.” He teased as he ate one of them himself and realized just how ravished he was. His stomach rumbled and he fought with himself not to eat anymore. Unlike his youngest sister there was no way he would get away with eating his fill here and now. The last thing he wanted to do was cause injury to his father. Thinking of his father, he glanced away from Ced for a second to see Ulfric dancing with his wife.
“Not a sight you see every day.” He muttered with a nod of his head in their paternal figure’s direction. The man wasn’t very good at it, but at least he was trying.
She had honestly been worried about this day. The day that the three Kingdoms would come together and be reunited within the Western Palace. She had made sure that preparations for the ballroom were in order within a week in advance as people scurried to make sure things were done. Juliana was even more worried that her brother was going to be there, as well but maybe he wouldn't recognize her behind her mask but then again, her one of kind blonde locks of her hair might give her away. Juliana was just about ready to enter the ballroom but she was too busy outside as she paced from side to side, her mask covering her face so no one who she was.
With a slight huff, she turned heel as her body now faced the entrance of the ballroom. She walked up the stairs that led into the grand hall as she was absolutely stunned with the way everything looked. She dropped her jaw with amazement as she continued on walking through the hall. Juliana watched as people were dancing around her, chatting and laughing as she eavesdropped on a few conversations, giggling softly to herself. She loved social events such as this as her face behind the mask told the story. Her eyes wavered over everyone present as sh enjoyed their styles of choice for tonight's event. Soon, she had spotted her husband as she knew his stature and body a little too well now. As bad as she wanted to go over there and make her presence known to him, he seemed quite occupied with Lady Eleora so she decided to place herself elsewhere.
Juliana went over to the table where she grabbed herself a goblet of wine, taking a brief sip from it as she let out a sigh. She often wondered to herself why did Cyprian and Eleora get so close to one another, let alone how did they become so close. She eyed them from afar while taking brief sips from her goblet here and there. She was taken away from her thoughts as a male came up to her, as bowed and complimented her home.
She knew that voice from anywhere, let alone his blonde hair as she sat her goblet down and took his hand. "I'd love to dance with you, brother Lucas or shall I say King Lucas." She said with a smile while walking beside him towards the middle of the dance floor and started to dance with him. "You know, you don't have to dance with me to talk. Something's troubling you. I know we haven't been around each other in quite sometime but your facial expressions haven't changed." Juliana mentioned as she waited for Lucas to speak what was on his mind. No matter how much she disliked him, if her brother needed her help, she was down for helping him.
With a slight huff, she turned heel as her body now faced the entrance of the ballroom. She walked up the stairs that led into the grand hall as she was absolutely stunned with the way everything looked. She dropped her jaw with amazement as she continued on walking through the hall. Juliana watched as people were dancing around her, chatting and laughing as she eavesdropped on a few conversations, giggling softly to herself. She loved social events such as this as her face behind the mask told the story. Her eyes wavered over everyone present as sh enjoyed their styles of choice for tonight's event. Soon, she had spotted her husband as she knew his stature and body a little too well now. As bad as she wanted to go over there and make her presence known to him, he seemed quite occupied with Lady Eleora so she decided to place herself elsewhere.
Juliana went over to the table where she grabbed herself a goblet of wine, taking a brief sip from it as she let out a sigh. She often wondered to herself why did Cyprian and Eleora get so close to one another, let alone how did they become so close. She eyed them from afar while taking brief sips from her goblet here and there. She was taken away from her thoughts as a male came up to her, as bowed and complimented her home.
She knew that voice from anywhere, let alone his blonde hair as she sat her goblet down and took his hand. "I'd love to dance with you, brother Lucas or shall I say King Lucas." She said with a smile while walking beside him towards the middle of the dance floor and started to dance with him. "You know, you don't have to dance with me to talk. Something's troubling you. I know we haven't been around each other in quite sometime but your facial expressions haven't changed." Juliana mentioned as she waited for Lucas to speak what was on his mind. No matter how much she disliked him, if her brother needed her help, she was down for helping him.
Mary really didn't want to go to the ball tonight as she hated being around large crowds of people. Mostly because of the stares she'd get and the mutters she'd hear. But good thing about tonight is that they will be in masks and no one would know who she was exactly. But then again, what if someone did recognize her behind her mask. She stood outside of the ballroom, as the thoughts pondered within her mind. She sort of hesitated walking up the stairs before her as she tried about three times and not even making it past the first step.
She didn't want to be embarrassed. She didn't want to embarrass anyone else either, especially Christoph. Mary knew she couldn't stay outside forever so with the strength she had, she walked gracefully up the stairs as her mask shined as soon as it hit the lighting within the building. It seemed as if everyone's eyes had dawned upon her as she was flushed. Mary was asked to dance by a male dressed in black and white as she accepted his proposal and waltzed over to the dance floor with him. She danced elegantly along with the male as when the song ended, he bowed towards her as she curtsied.
"Pardon me." She told the male as she walked over towards a window to catch her breath. All of that dancing, well just that one dance, had made her a little bit tired already. Mary walked along the area where the windows were as she saw a male standing all by himself. Mary looked left then right before stepping outside and standing beside him now, enjoying the breeze that blew between them as the aroma of flowers warmed her inside. Her eyes glanced over towards the male as she knew who it was - Christoph.
"Simply memorizing, isn't it, love?" She inched closer to him now, wrapping her arm around his as she rested her head upon his arm now. Mary smiled up towards him as she loved the vibes that were being sent through her right about as her head continued to rest upon Christoph's arm now.
She didn't want to be embarrassed. She didn't want to embarrass anyone else either, especially Christoph. Mary knew she couldn't stay outside forever so with the strength she had, she walked gracefully up the stairs as her mask shined as soon as it hit the lighting within the building. It seemed as if everyone's eyes had dawned upon her as she was flushed. Mary was asked to dance by a male dressed in black and white as she accepted his proposal and waltzed over to the dance floor with him. She danced elegantly along with the male as when the song ended, he bowed towards her as she curtsied.
"Pardon me." She told the male as she walked over towards a window to catch her breath. All of that dancing, well just that one dance, had made her a little bit tired already. Mary walked along the area where the windows were as she saw a male standing all by himself. Mary looked left then right before stepping outside and standing beside him now, enjoying the breeze that blew between them as the aroma of flowers warmed her inside. Her eyes glanced over towards the male as she knew who it was - Christoph.
"Simply memorizing, isn't it, love?" She inched closer to him now, wrapping her arm around his as she rested her head upon his arm now. Mary smiled up towards him as she loved the vibes that were being sent through her right about as her head continued to rest upon Christoph's arm now.
Juliana took his hand and accepted his dance. "I'd love to dance with you, brother Lucas or shall I say King Lucas. You know, you don't have to dance with me to talk. Something's troubling you. I know we haven't been around each other in quite sometime but your facial expressions haven't changed." She said as they made their way to the dance floor. He was suddenly thankful he had learned to dance long ago. Not necessarily for his sister, but to keep from embarrassing her at her ball in her home. He placed his hand on her hip gently, and took ahold of her hand and eased them into the dance.
"Now, Juliana," he murmured, "You and I both know that's not true. We've never been the best communicators." He took a deep breath before asking the words he's been anxious to ask. "Juliana... why did you leave? Did I do something to you as a child? You've never acted very warmly towards me, and now I have the courage to ask you why?" He spun her around, her skirts swirling around her. "I'm not here to beg you to come home so don't worry about that. I just want to know what I can do to fix things. We could be allies. I think both our kingdoms needs some peace."
Cedany stuffed sweet treat after sweet treat into her mouth. She was slightly jealous at the skill of the kingdom's pastry chefs. The treats back home didn't melt in her mouth the way these did. She jumped when Aren came up behind her, letting out a squeak. She smacked her half-brother on the arm. "Aren! Don't you know it's impolite to startle a lady!" She followed his gaze to Lady Genevieve and their father dancing. The light left her eyes a little as her eyes quickly darted to Ronan and back. "Yes. It's great.", she muttered.
The song changed and he tugged on his sleeve. "Aren, dance with me! I adore this song!" She begged. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw her sister and let go of Aren to rush to her. She enveloped her in a massive hug. "Addie!" She squealed. "Come dance with me and Aren!" She pulled both of them onto the floor and began to dance with them and around him. She didn't care if it wasn't entirely proper. It was fun and what better way to enjoy the party than with some of her favorite people.
It pained him to watch his father whisk Genevieve off, stealing her from right under his nose. He wasn’t new to this experience, though. It seemed as though every time he had her, every time he was close enough to touch her, hold her, his father came in and took her. It infuriated him, but it wasn’t as if he could do something about it in public. So he ground his teeth and clenched his fists, watching helplessly as his love was whisked away.
Ronan had little time to wallow in his self-pity, for Cedany ran at him then and clung to his neck, dragging him down to her level just a bit before he stood up again and held her in his arms, up off of the ground.
"Indeed it is, Sprout," he agreed, whirling her about once before placing her on the floor. She whispered to him just before they parted, however, and he froze for a moment in panic. "I..." He started to speak, but he cut himself off as his sister dashed off. "Cedany!"
He hurried after his sister now, attempting to follow her. He was a large man, though, and darting through crowds had never really been Ronan’s strong suit. When he finally managed to bob and weave enough to end up by Cedany, however, he found her turned to face Aren.
”Cedany, how -” But now she raced off towards Adelaide and pulled both of his siblings out on to the floor after her. ”Shit.” He followed her out again, attempting to slide between dancing couples until he quite nearly tripped on to his siblings.
”Any room left in this dance circle?” he asked, attempting to cover up his true motive for following his sister. He knew she knew more than anyone else in the palace, but he had thought his relationship with Genevieve was a secret, damn it. If she knew, then who else did?
{Collaboration between myself and xXxCryptic-AngelxXx}
Juliana eyed Lucas as he placed his hand within hers and his hand upon her hip then eased them into the dance. Her face told the whole story as she wondered when he learned to dance. Of course, that wasn't really an important matter to attend to right now as she continued to look at him when he started speaking. She rolled her eyes when Lucas stated that they have never been the best communicators, which was true but she didn't despise her brother, since he was of her blood, after all.
His next question caught her off guard as she was spun around by him then stopped dancing and pushed herself away from him. She gave the look of really as she walked back up to him and whispered within his ear. "Lucas, such matters shouldn't be discussed out here in the open." She muttered while taking a hold of his hand and basically dragging him into an empty room, making sure no one else was present then closed the door behind them and eyed Lucas.
"I didn't leave home because of you, Lucas. I left home because of father's death and didn't feel the need to stay there and watch you rule. I wanted my own Kingdom to rule so that's why I left with Cyprian and my daughter. I always wanted to rule Falor since birth but then you were born and I lost my chance." Juliana would walk closer to her brother, Lucas, now and wrap her hands with his. "I honestly didn't like it when you were born as I knew that you were going to be the heir of Falor. But if it's an alliance you seek then I am all for that, as well." She muttered with a smile, looking up towards her darling brother now as she bit her bottom lip nervously.
Lucas crossed his arms as he listened to his sister explain her departure from home. A weight seemed to rise off his shoulders as she spoke. She didn't hate him. Or at least, it wasn't the reason she left. He suddenly felt selfish, but he had already opened the door, it was time to walk through it. "Juliana.. I'm sorry." He whispered. "I didn't realize that I had taken something you wanted. To be truthful, I always looked up to you and thought you would be an excellent queen until Mother said I was to rule."
Juliana heard his apology and just looked at him as she rose her hand up to his face, caressing it with a smile. She did, at one point and time, adored her brother but when he was deemed the next King, the next one to the throne of Falor, she disliked him. But she'd never tell him that out loud. Her eyes went towards Lucas as she shook her head. "Wouldn't it have been obvious? I was the first born and I wanted that throne more than anything else. And of course you always looked up to me. I couldn't be away from you for two minutes without you starting to whimper or cry like a little puppy." She told him bluntly while looking at him now as his lips parted for him to speak.
He ran his hands through his hair, knocking his mask from his face. It fell to the ground with a soft thump, but he didn't reach for it. Instead he just kicked it to the side so neither of the siblings would step on it. "But you never said anything. At least not to me. Not even a goodbye." He looked back towards the door. "I never even got to see Giselle before you left."
He looked back at her and clutched her hands. "We could've changed the law or.. I don't know something. You just left me. Alone." He sounded weak and he hated it, but he needed her to know that her leaving left him feeling hollow. "Father was dead, Mother's disappeared, and then you and your family vanished. Then you were here and creating your own world. A world without me in it. I thought you hated me, Juliana." He took a deep breath and released her hands, he tucked his pain back inside his heart and smiled the way a king would smile without a worry in the world. "An alliance it is, dear Julianna."
Her eyes looked as the mask hit the ground as she would've reached down and gotten it for him but he kicked it off to the side. "What could I say, Lucas? Father's dead, Mother's gone and so am I? I saw an opportunity to rule so I took it." She said then locked her gaze with him as he mentioned Giselle.
"Well, I didn't think you cared since when she was born, you were at a council meeting. A council meeting! That made it seem like you didn't care for her birth so that's why I never showed her to you. That's why I kept her closer to me." Juliana about had tears in her eyes as she held them back while her eyes gazed upon her brother now. "I could never hate you, Lucas. You are my brother, after all. I wanted to be there for you but I couldn't be your Queen. That would've been gross and how would the world have looked at us then." She dropped her hands back by her side as she smirked at Lucas.
Lucas chuckled. "Well that would be totally unfair to the other kingdoms. They'd be outmatched." He joked. "But seriously that's not what I meant. I would've stepped down if I had known." He sighed, then and said, "As for Giselle, you know I would've been there, but Father would've flayed me if I had missed that meeting with the council. He also, kept it hidden from me until after the meeting had come to a close."
"You'll have to talk matters with my husband if you want an alliance." She said as she turned heel and over to one of the windows, her eyes peered outside of it now. She knew this day would come and she'd thought that she'd be ready but truthfully, she wasn't. She felt like she won this little argument inside as she smiled at the thought then cleared her throat as she continued to look out the window.
He followed his sister to the window, "Speaking of tall, blonde, and king regent, how is Cyprian? He's okay with you wearing the pants isn't he?" He nudged her with his shoulder playfully. "Oh! Did you hear? I'm engaged. To Ris of all people." He shook his head, but he was smilling.
Juliana chuckled at Lucas' question then pushed his arm, which really didn't budge him, a little. "He's okay, I guess. We've unfortunately grown apart." She muttered softly while her head lowered with a sigh as her head perked up when she realized that they've been away from the party for quite some time. "Uhm, maybe we should go back to the ball. I am sure people are looking for us or something." She waved her hand towards him while reaching down and grabbing his mask, handing it to him now. Juliana placed her arm out for Lucas to link with his own arm as she waited until he did so they he could lead them back into the ballroom.
Lucas frowned at the new information about her husband, but didn't say much. It wasn't uncommon. He silently hoped that things would improve for his sister. He was very pleased with how their conversation went. He smiled at his sister and held his arm out to her. "Shall we?" Once linked, he pushed the door opened and walked them back out to the ball. He bowed to her and kissed her hand respectfully. "I shall leave you to converse with your guests, my dear sister. And I shall find Cyprian." He turned on his heel and strode to where he last saw the king regent.
Juliana nodded her head at Lucas as they linked arms and he pushed the door and walked them back out into the ballroom. When he bowed, she curtsied as a soft gasp came from her lips when he kissed her hand. It was unexpected and she nodded her head towards him. "Be safe, little brother." Was she had the time to say before he ventured off to find her husband, Cyprian. She wondered who she could venture out to within this moment.
Giselle pulled at the sleeves of her dress. Being around so many people at one time was something new to her, and she wasn't very comfortable. Being the shortest person there, and a child at that, earned her a couple of stares here and there. She stood at one corner of the ballroom at the moment, as she scanned the hall for any familiar faces. Giselle spotted her mother across the room, with a few others at her side. She silently hoped her friends wouldn't mind the intrusion, and walked over. She walked through people dancing and socializing, soon seeing her father and the lady in waiting alone talking. She furrowed her eyebrows in confusion. Giselle shook her head and continued on towards her mother.
Before she could reach her mother, a young man began dancing with her. Almost immediately, they walked into a more private environment. Who was that man mother was talking to? Giselle asked herself this, and moved off to the wall to wait. Once her mother and the man appeared again, she hurried towards her mother before she'd miss her again. Giselle pulled a little on her mother's sleeve to get her attention. "Mother? Who was that man? He looked a little like you.." Giselle let what she said sink in, before she apologized. "Ah! I'm sorry for prying, mother, but I'm rather curious." As Giselle waited for an answer, she thought about who he might be.
He looked a little like her mother, and she contemplated this. A relative? What relative does she know that looks like him? She knew of not a single person. The only evidence she'd have was what her mother would tell her, if she would give her any information on that man's identity.
(Sorry it's so short)
Before she could reach her mother, a young man began dancing with her. Almost immediately, they walked into a more private environment. Who was that man mother was talking to? Giselle asked herself this, and moved off to the wall to wait. Once her mother and the man appeared again, she hurried towards her mother before she'd miss her again. Giselle pulled a little on her mother's sleeve to get her attention. "Mother? Who was that man? He looked a little like you.." Giselle let what she said sink in, before she apologized. "Ah! I'm sorry for prying, mother, but I'm rather curious." As Giselle waited for an answer, she thought about who he might be.
He looked a little like her mother, and she contemplated this. A relative? What relative does she know that looks like him? She knew of not a single person. The only evidence she'd have was what her mother would tell her, if she would give her any information on that man's identity.
(Sorry it's so short)
He could have done without the massive amounts of people wandering around, Loras reflected as he waltzed his sister around the room. At least the food smelled good, and there wasn’t enough dancing yet to make the ballroom hot as blazes. His men were off getting drunk, probably, and for a moment, he longed to join them just to remove himself from the tortures of nobility. But his father wanted him there, Juliana was there, and his dear sister was there... And goodness he had missed her. It was like a physical ache sometimes, not having his confidant and friend there to talk to him. They’d been nigh inseparable since they had met, and then to be shoved so far apart, well...
But no matter. They were there now, and that was what mattered, and Loras wouldn’t spend that night angsting. He was better than that, he thought. He couldn’t miss how Ris’ gaze followed her fiance, and that made a grin tug at the corners of his mouth. “Loriaaaaa,” He hummed, drawing out the last syllable of her name and making her pale cheeks flush. She gave him an amused look, and accidentally stepped on his foot as they turned around again, making him laugh.
“Don’t call me that!” She scolded, and he offered up an innocent look in return.
“I’m over here, you know,” He teased, and she tipped her head up, raising an eyebrow at him. “You and Lucas doing better?” He inquired, meeting her gaze. He chuckled when that blush darkened, and she glanced away. As she did so, she saw said King disappearing into a separate room with his sister, and silently wished him well.
“We’ve been locked in a carriage together for ages.” She deadpanned, and then she hesitated, rubbing her thumb over her brother’s knuckles out of habit.
“You can tell me.” He encouraged, squeezing her hand.
“He’s... endearing.” Ris answered around a sigh, looking back to her brother. “I was so intent on not liking him, and he’s so damn genuine, I could cry.”
Loras chuckled at that, and seemed about to comment on that when out of nowhere, their dancing was interrupted. They were both jostled suddenly, and Ris drew her brother quickly out of the ring of dancers, not wanting anyone to step on her brother save for her.
“My apologies, sir-” The short-haired Captain spoke, and Loras found him familiar... probably because he’d fought his men at some point.
“You’re fine.” He promised with a crooked little smile. He released one of Ris’ hands, bowing to him in return before slipping his arm around his sister’s waist.
“I think we were a little lost in the music.” Ris added with a bit of a smile, speaking for both of them, for which Loras was somewhat grateful. She gave the Captain an amused look, reaching up to twirl a lock of her own soft locks around her finger. Loras recognized that habit too--nervous. He gave her a comforting little squeeze. “In any case, Captain, how many times have I told you to call me Ris?” She teased, and curtseyed to him, her eyes bright behind her mask.
But no matter. They were there now, and that was what mattered, and Loras wouldn’t spend that night angsting. He was better than that, he thought. He couldn’t miss how Ris’ gaze followed her fiance, and that made a grin tug at the corners of his mouth. “Loriaaaaa,” He hummed, drawing out the last syllable of her name and making her pale cheeks flush. She gave him an amused look, and accidentally stepped on his foot as they turned around again, making him laugh.
“Don’t call me that!” She scolded, and he offered up an innocent look in return.
“I’m over here, you know,” He teased, and she tipped her head up, raising an eyebrow at him. “You and Lucas doing better?” He inquired, meeting her gaze. He chuckled when that blush darkened, and she glanced away. As she did so, she saw said King disappearing into a separate room with his sister, and silently wished him well.
“We’ve been locked in a carriage together for ages.” She deadpanned, and then she hesitated, rubbing her thumb over her brother’s knuckles out of habit.
“You can tell me.” He encouraged, squeezing her hand.
“He’s... endearing.” Ris answered around a sigh, looking back to her brother. “I was so intent on not liking him, and he’s so damn genuine, I could cry.”
Loras chuckled at that, and seemed about to comment on that when out of nowhere, their dancing was interrupted. They were both jostled suddenly, and Ris drew her brother quickly out of the ring of dancers, not wanting anyone to step on her brother save for her.
“My apologies, sir-” The short-haired Captain spoke, and Loras found him familiar... probably because he’d fought his men at some point.
“You’re fine.” He promised with a crooked little smile. He released one of Ris’ hands, bowing to him in return before slipping his arm around his sister’s waist.
“I think we were a little lost in the music.” Ris added with a bit of a smile, speaking for both of them, for which Loras was somewhat grateful. She gave the Captain an amused look, reaching up to twirl a lock of her own soft locks around her finger. Loras recognized that habit too--nervous. He gave her a comforting little squeeze. “In any case, Captain, how many times have I told you to call me Ris?” She teased, and curtseyed to him, her eyes bright behind her mask.
Ulfric smiled back at Genevieve’s attempt at a look of pleasure or joy or something of that nature. She wasn’t wrong in observing the difference between her new family and her old people. Ostwall was still, and likely always would be, a kingdom of clansmen and wars and pillage. In fact, he couldn’t really call the nation “his” - it was his people’s more so than his own, if he was being completely honest with himself.
The older man took her hand in his, letting her dainty fingers brush against his far more calloused ones, hardened by years of war and toil for his country. No one could doubt that Ulfric had rightfully taken the throne, for in his prime, he’d been a formidable opponent. Even now, rumor had it that he could still wrestle even the most capable warrior. While that wasn’t true by any means, he still was a strong man, but he let himself relax ever so slightly before his wife.
He could tell she was uncomfortable. Something seemed to gnaw at her as he spun her on to the dance floor, whisking her for just a moment by his children. But he was too busy frowning back at her, attempting to discern something from her expression. So lost was he that he stepped on her foot for a heartbeat before stepping off suddenly.
”My apologies, my lady,” he sputtered, struggling now to find the beat after he’d lost it. Music had never been a strong suit, and it never would be. Hell, he hadn’t heard music until he’d become king. Slowly, he fit them back into the song - granted, of course, they remained half a beat behind every other couple in the area.
”Something’s on your mind,” he observed, maintaining a stoic expression as he studied her expression once again. ”Anything...in particular?” He felt as though he walked a battlefield each time he spoke to her, afraid that one misplaced step would send a barrage of arrows his way. Freya had pitied him for that, at least - she’d speak openly without prompting. She knew he never knew how to begin small talk. And now he wish she had let him learn, for how else was he to communicate to the girl before him? His wife, damn it.
Genevieve followed along with ease, clearly the more skilled dancer; she moved like it was second nature to her, as easy as walking. His expression made her uneasy, leaving her with no option but to duck her head down to avoid his frown. She hadn’t been too obvious about Ronan had she? If she had… She was already frightened enough, Ulfric’s scrutiny only making her panic more and stumble, apologizing the same moment as him and giggling nervously. “It’s alright.” She assured him, managing to keep the shakiness from her voice.
She did her best to get them back on beat with the others, but her own anxiety didn’t do much to help, and she feared taking control too much wouldn’t end well. It was impossible to look away from Ronan as he hung around his siblings, heart aching as Genevieve looked away all too quickly, keeping her eyes down until Ulfric spoke again, making her visibly tense.
What was she to say? The man who sold me off to you is here didn’t sound very ladylike, or decent at all for that matter. She wanted Ronan. She wanted to be away from this hell and safe with her beloved. Yet another thing she couldn't tell her husband. "It's nothing." She finally lied after a few moments of uncomfortable silence. "It's just been quite a while since the last time I was at a party. I'm nervous is all." Was that convincing enough? She was hardly sure, with her mind racing a mile a minute she could barely even keep track of what color she was wearing. It seemed like the safest bet. If she told him the truth he might go over to him and try to thank him, keeping her at his side like some trophy. The thought alone made her force down tears.
When the song changed and Cedany and her siblings rushed out, her heart flooded with relief, forcing her expression to stay at a rather neutral smile. She waited for Ulfric to release her, so she could wait at the sidelines again and oh so conveniently her Ronan would come over and offer to dance with her. She could tell Ulfric she wasn't feeling well - not even a lie, truly she felt sick being in such close proximity with her fath - and Ronan, being the wonderful doting son he was, would offer to take her off somewhere less crowded and she could stay there with him for the remainder of the night. But he didn't release her, simply shifting to change tempo for the next song, and she felt like she could hear her heart shattering. But she was a good girl, so despite how she was dying within, she kept up a smile as they danced.
She did her best to get them back on beat with the others, but her own anxiety didn’t do much to help, and she feared taking control too much wouldn’t end well. It was impossible to look away from Ronan as he hung around his siblings, heart aching as Genevieve looked away all too quickly, keeping her eyes down until Ulfric spoke again, making her visibly tense.
What was she to say? The man who sold me off to you is here didn’t sound very ladylike, or decent at all for that matter. She wanted Ronan. She wanted to be away from this hell and safe with her beloved. Yet another thing she couldn't tell her husband. "It's nothing." She finally lied after a few moments of uncomfortable silence. "It's just been quite a while since the last time I was at a party. I'm nervous is all." Was that convincing enough? She was hardly sure, with her mind racing a mile a minute she could barely even keep track of what color she was wearing. It seemed like the safest bet. If she told him the truth he might go over to him and try to thank him, keeping her at his side like some trophy. The thought alone made her force down tears.
When the song changed and Cedany and her siblings rushed out, her heart flooded with relief, forcing her expression to stay at a rather neutral smile. She waited for Ulfric to release her, so she could wait at the sidelines again and oh so conveniently her Ronan would come over and offer to dance with her. She could tell Ulfric she wasn't feeling well - not even a lie, truly she felt sick being in such close proximity with her fath - and Ronan, being the wonderful doting son he was, would offer to take her off somewhere less crowded and she could stay there with him for the remainder of the night. But he didn't release her, simply shifting to change tempo for the next song, and she felt like she could hear her heart shattering. But she was a good girl, so despite how she was dying within, she kept up a smile as they danced.
He slowly became lost in his thoughts as he stood there, admiring a bush of newly flowering buds. The garden was a magnificent thing, he had to admit that. He glanced further up the row of windows and spotted a man smaller than himself gazing out on the shrubbery. For a moment, he considered walking to him, speaking to him out of courtesy more so than anything else. But then he recognized Christoph for his silvery hair. He hadn’t changed much in the two years since he’d seen Falor, but perhaps now his entire head seemed a bit more peppered with gray.
Cyprian wasn’t aware of Eleora’s presence until she spoke out, and even then, her voice was so gentle, so soft, that it was almost swallowed by the crowds. He turned quickly towards her, worried he may have said something in his reflections he hadn’t meant to disclose. But it was Ellie, and he smiled at her in a mixture of relief and joy.
”Yes, it is,” he returned, looking forward once more so that they may avoid the suspicions of the other nobles. He knew some might watch the two for a bit longer, but there was nothing odd about simply speaking with one’s servant. It just came off as attentive and friendly. Cyprian looked back at her now though, and they made eye contact, but he struggled to keep from smiling again. He wasn’t some love-sick girl, but damn it, if he didn’t feel like it at times. Their love was something he’d craved for ages - one of mutual affection and embracing and passion. It wasn’t a struggle for power or possession like so many other relationships he had seen in his years. No, this was different.
”I had worried you would not attend,” said Cyprian, looking at her and then around them before looking back out at the garden again. ”We could go for a walk, if you’d like. Slip away just as a song begins.”
He waited for his moment, calculated it perfectly, and then turned to Ellie to invite her after him. Cyprian reached a hand ever so slightly for her, hoping to seize her hand and run off. But his eye caught on movement behind him as Lucas approached.
”Dearest brother-in-law,” he greeted, stepping slowly back from Ellie as he turned to face Lucas, forcing an air of civility into his voice. ”My, you’ve grown up. Your father would be proud to see you now, I’m almost certain of it.” He took note of the three inch difference between the two of them and smiled ever so slightly. He extended a hand to take Lucas’s in. ”Have you spoken to your sister yet? I am certain she would love to speak with you.”
He frowned now, noticing an air of business about this encounter. Lucas seemed to have come with more of an intention than simply catching up with his brother-in-law. ”Can I...help you with something, Lucas?”
“You’re fine.” Loras bowed back and flashed a soft smirk.
“I think we were a little lost in the music.” The dainty smile on Loria’s face caused Wulf’s own lips to curl upwards slightly. “In any case, Captain, how many times have I told you to call me Ris?”
A short, deep chuckle rolled off Wulf’s tongue before she could stop it. “My apologies, Lady Ris.” There was a touch of humor in her tone. “It’s a respectful habit that I’ve had a rather hard time breaking.” She nodded at the younger woman once more, the smile still on her lips.
After a brief moment of eye contact, Wulf shifted her gaze to her older brother. She was glad that the secret heel in her boots raised her height slightly so the two were at least around eye level. “I suppose I should introduce myself formally, Captain Loras, since we don’t have the time to do so on the battlefield.” She held out her hand, offering the other man a firm handshake. “The name’s Chrys Wulf, Captain of the Kingsguard under King Lucas of Falor.”
It was then, after she reminded herself who she was, that Wulf realized she hadn’t been looking out for her king. She did a quick scan of the room, only to spot the blond exiting a room, followed by his sister. She couldn't help but bite at the inside of her lip, hoping that the young king was alright. Gah, stop that. He’s a man, not a boy. Stop mothering him. Wulf returned her unintentional glare to Loria before shifting it back to Loras. “Would you mind if I stole your sister away for a bit? Perhaps, for a dance?” She extended her hand once more, but this time, it was in the direction of Ris.
A low rumbling left Theran’s throat as he tried to hold back his laughter at his sister. The girl was far from a lady and to hear her call herself that was the best thing he’d heard all night. Leave it to the young girl to make the evening a more enjoyable one.
“You know well enough –” he had made it only partway into his thoughts when he was cut off by Cedany wanting to dance. And why wouldn’t she? It wasn’t hard to imagine she was living everything up before they made the trek back to Ostwall.
Just as he started to round to her side of the table, Ced was already running off. With a roll of his eyes, he followed after her to see Adelaide. Well at least she wasn’t running off to strangers, a small comfort to be sure. It almost seemed like Addy was on her way over to where they were anyway. Was she under the same mind frame that Cedany wasn’t to be trusted too much by herself? If so it was comical.
Theran started after his sister to join both of them as their younger sister pulled into onto the dance floor. Yep, he definitely didn’t want to be out there where other people could see his follies, but for his family he was willing to do anything. He glanced up at Addy with a shrug of his shoulder and a smile on his face. There was nothing they could really do except go along with it or make the poor girl upset.
Jerked out of his thoughts, Aren helped to steady his older brother so that the large brut of a man didn’t take the rest of them down with him. It seemed the older male wasn’t as graceful on the dance floor as he was on the battlefield. He’d grown up thinking that fighters made the best lovers. Maybe it was the other way around.
“Careful. Don’t need to crush the ladies here, brother. They might never forgive you.” His voice was light saying he was only picking even though getting on Cedany’s bad side could mean a great many surprises one didn’t want.
Best part about Cedany’s erratic behavior was that for once she didn’t have to go after her sister. Annie was coming straight for her bringing Theran in tow. She laughed. He was nearly being drug against his will onto the dance floor. Leave it to their sister to make a fool of the whole family. Well no – their father did the most of that when it came to social graces. She was fine with it too since it gave her an ample excuse not to be a perfect lady especially since she wished she was as free as Ced was to do as she wished.
Adelaide caught her baby sister into an equally tight embrace and spun her around as well as she could, setting her down back beside of Aren who had finally caught up with the speedy teen. She nodded her head politely to him because a huge grin spread across her face.
“I see Annie here decided to involve all of us in her antics this time.”
Her brother grinned back at her seconds before he caught Ronan from making them all pancakes onto the ballroom floor and really making them a grand spectacle for all the other nobles of the two other kingdoms.
“Oh come on, Aren, we both know that all of us can make fools of ourselves without our heir here doing it for us. Please join us. I believe Annie would just love it.”
Ellie wondered, for a brief moment, if he had even been able to hear her. She wasn’t quite sure what she’d do if he hadn’t, and she bit her bottom lip, her already knotted hands tightening on each other. The crescents in her palms from the last time she had been this nervous, too nervous, were only just beginning to heal. She was struck with the strange and silly want for Cy’s calloused, gentle fingers to brush over those marks. But that can’t happen if he hasn’t heard you, Ellie, She admonished herself.
She was drawn straight out of her thoughts by a familiar, voice, and she couldn’t help the smile that came to her lips immediately. He had heard her, and her whole heart felt like it had taken flight when she saw the look on his face. That brief moment of eye contact, that split second to convey adoration and hope and a gentle smile was not nearly enough. Ellie glanced down at the floor, as was her place as a servant. She had made sure to stay a little behind him. Their dance was a careful one, always, stolen touches and glances, but Ellie... Well, she could be told all the rumors in the world about women being swept away by kings and left behind, and if her Cy was looking at her that way, she wouldn’t care a whit.
Sometimes, she thought she was a little too human.
“Yes, it is.” He spoke, and her gaze flickered up again. They made eye contact in a more permanent manner this time, and she bit the inside of her lip to keep from smiling. She could see him fighting to keep the corners of his mouth in check as well, and she wanted little more in that moment than to reach forward and brush her thumb over his jaw. And yet, even that would be too much. “I had worried you would not attend,” He said, and she let her hands loosen from their too-tight hold at last. “We could go for a walk, if you’d like. Slip away just as a song begins.”
“How could I not come?” She asked softly, making sure to pitch her voice this time so that he would be able to hear it a little better, though she was still cautious of the many other people that lined the ballroom. It was a comforting publicity, though. Everyone was so busy talking to each other about private things and mingling that they wouldn’t notice anyone else. “I haven’t gotten a hug from you in days.” She teased gently, gazing out at the garden. She was relatively sure that her heart had taken up residence in her throat by the time he finished his sentence, and she was terribly grateful that there was no blush upon her cheeks. That, at least, she had more control over than her smile. “I’d love that.” She admitted. To steal even half an hour away, she would be grateful. If she had learned anything from this, it had been patience with time.
The music went on in the background, and she tapped her foot gently to the rhythm of one of the more familiar tunes. “I’d steal you away for a dance, if I could.” She murmured, affection clear in her voice. The song ended, and hope rose up in her chest. She let her fingers extend the barest bit, searching out his touch--
And then the moment ended and the next song began and there was her mistress’ brother. She let her hands rest at her side, as if nothing had happened, her eyes widening a little at the sight of the king of Falor. She curtseyed in greeting, but stayed silent, soon folding her hands and taking a step back, leaving the two men to their discussion. They’d have their moment, she reassured herself silently, and she tucked a loose curl back behind her ear absentmindedly. She watched them a little, listening to her beloved’s voice, waiting to see how Lucas would respond. She was terribly excellent at blending in with the rest of the mass of people, appearing clearly as nothing more than a serving girl.
She was drawn straight out of her thoughts by a familiar, voice, and she couldn’t help the smile that came to her lips immediately. He had heard her, and her whole heart felt like it had taken flight when she saw the look on his face. That brief moment of eye contact, that split second to convey adoration and hope and a gentle smile was not nearly enough. Ellie glanced down at the floor, as was her place as a servant. She had made sure to stay a little behind him. Their dance was a careful one, always, stolen touches and glances, but Ellie... Well, she could be told all the rumors in the world about women being swept away by kings and left behind, and if her Cy was looking at her that way, she wouldn’t care a whit.
Sometimes, she thought she was a little too human.
“Yes, it is.” He spoke, and her gaze flickered up again. They made eye contact in a more permanent manner this time, and she bit the inside of her lip to keep from smiling. She could see him fighting to keep the corners of his mouth in check as well, and she wanted little more in that moment than to reach forward and brush her thumb over his jaw. And yet, even that would be too much. “I had worried you would not attend,” He said, and she let her hands loosen from their too-tight hold at last. “We could go for a walk, if you’d like. Slip away just as a song begins.”
“How could I not come?” She asked softly, making sure to pitch her voice this time so that he would be able to hear it a little better, though she was still cautious of the many other people that lined the ballroom. It was a comforting publicity, though. Everyone was so busy talking to each other about private things and mingling that they wouldn’t notice anyone else. “I haven’t gotten a hug from you in days.” She teased gently, gazing out at the garden. She was relatively sure that her heart had taken up residence in her throat by the time he finished his sentence, and she was terribly grateful that there was no blush upon her cheeks. That, at least, she had more control over than her smile. “I’d love that.” She admitted. To steal even half an hour away, she would be grateful. If she had learned anything from this, it had been patience with time.
The music went on in the background, and she tapped her foot gently to the rhythm of one of the more familiar tunes. “I’d steal you away for a dance, if I could.” She murmured, affection clear in her voice. The song ended, and hope rose up in her chest. She let her fingers extend the barest bit, searching out his touch--
And then the moment ended and the next song began and there was her mistress’ brother. She let her hands rest at her side, as if nothing had happened, her eyes widening a little at the sight of the king of Falor. She curtseyed in greeting, but stayed silent, soon folding her hands and taking a step back, leaving the two men to their discussion. They’d have their moment, she reassured herself silently, and she tucked a loose curl back behind her ear absentmindedly. She watched them a little, listening to her beloved’s voice, waiting to see how Lucas would respond. She was terribly excellent at blending in with the rest of the mass of people, appearing clearly as nothing more than a serving girl.
Ris smiled upon seeing the Captain smile, taking some not-quite-pride in being able to get various Captains of the Guard to smile. They were supposed to be a rather stern bunch, but both Wulf and Loras held a special place in her heart. The amused spark in her eyes remained, and mirth joined it soon enough. She laughed softly, raising a pale eyebrow at the Captain’s use of the word respectful. “I’m not married to Lucas yet.” She admonished with a playful air. “Besides, wouldn’t it be more respectful to honor my wishes?” She made it clear that she was teasing, a smile pulling at her lips and a chuckle following the edge of her words. “Listen to me, I’m obnoxious.” She shook her head, and released her brother when Wulf addressed him, tipping her head up to turn that amused glint onto him.
Loras chuckled, returning Ris’ look before inclining his head to the other Captain. “Can’t deny that. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He spoke, and extended his hand, returning the handshake. “Loras Estermont, Captain of the Guard under the queen of Seabel.” He had to say, he was rather proud of the queen for taking such power for herself. It was something that few dared to do. He noted how she looked around, and how Ris found his hand again. Both of them were looking out for that king, it seemed, both seemed concerned.
“Make sure to return her in one piece.” He hummed in a teasing manner, squeezing her hand in comfort. Ris laughed, leaning up to kiss his cheek.
“Wulf is terribly capable, I’m sure I’ll be fine in his hands.” She admonished, reaching out to take the Captain’s hand. “However, I’ve never actually seen you dance.” She spoke directly to Wulf this time, releasing her brother’s hand and taking a step forward. “Should I be afraid for my feet?” She teased a little. Loras chuckled softly, and crossed his arms, watching them for a moment. He’d find her later, he silently promised when Ris glanced back to him.
Loras chuckled, returning Ris’ look before inclining his head to the other Captain. “Can’t deny that. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” He spoke, and extended his hand, returning the handshake. “Loras Estermont, Captain of the Guard under the queen of Seabel.” He had to say, he was rather proud of the queen for taking such power for herself. It was something that few dared to do. He noted how she looked around, and how Ris found his hand again. Both of them were looking out for that king, it seemed, both seemed concerned.
“Make sure to return her in one piece.” He hummed in a teasing manner, squeezing her hand in comfort. Ris laughed, leaning up to kiss his cheek.
“Wulf is terribly capable, I’m sure I’ll be fine in his hands.” She admonished, reaching out to take the Captain’s hand. “However, I’ve never actually seen you dance.” She spoke directly to Wulf this time, releasing her brother’s hand and taking a step forward. “Should I be afraid for my feet?” She teased a little. Loras chuckled softly, and crossed his arms, watching them for a moment. He’d find her later, he silently promised when Ris glanced back to him.
He turned back towards where he had left his sister for a quick glance, but the crowd was blocking his view so he turned back. "As for what your help, I have a proposition for you." His eyes darted to Elora and back. "Privately if you would not mind." He smiled at the young woman beside the man and bowed respectfully to her. She was not a noblewoman, but if his mother had taught him anything it's that women should always be treated with respect. "I shall return him to you shortly."
He looked back to his brother gestured to the room he and his sister and recently vacated. "Shall we?"
He barely waited a moment before he began to walk towards the room. Once inside he shut the door behind them and spoke with authority he saved for addressing the kingdom and the court. "I recently had an idea that I feel would benefit both of our kingdoms. I have run it by my sister, but she has requested I speak with you on the matter. My request is this: An alliance between our kingdoms. We've seen so much war I feel it is time for some peace. What do you think, dear brother-in-law?"
They danced together happily and was soon joined by Ronan. He stumbled into their little group like an elephant drunk on champagne. Cedany laughed, the sound of their voices filled the air and warmed her heart. She smiled innocently at her eldest brother and batted her eyelashes. She knew his real reason for joining them probably had to do with the proverbial bomb she had just dropped on her brother, but he needn't worry. She would tell no one. This was information she planned on taking to her grave. She held tight to her siblings' hands and yelled, "Now Ronan, dear brother, are you sure you can keep up? We all know you have two left feet!" She was obviously joking, but what else were siblings for than making jokes about one another's skills?
“Can’t deny that. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Loras Estermont, Captain of the Guard under the queen of Seabel.” Wulf took his hand gladly, shaking it firmly. Nothing like a solid handshake to start a good friendship. Ah, how she wished they could be friends. The second they became captains of two different, opposing armies, their fate was declared. They were enemies who only met peacefully when their masters deemed it so. Keep your friends close, but keep your enemies closer.
When Wulf asked Ris to dance, Loras didn’t seem to mind, which brightened her mood somewhat. “Make sure to return her in one piece.”
“Wulf is terribly capable, I’m sure I’ll be fine in his hands.” Wulf only let out an agreeing mixture of a grunt and a chuckle in response. She took the younger woman’s hand and started moving her towards the dance floor. “However, I’ve never actually seen you dance. Should I be afraid for my feet?” The light teasing in her tone brought the smile back to Wulf’s face; this meant that the younger woman was actually somewhat comfortable with her.
Wulf stopped once she was nearby the other groups of people dancing. She turned the blonde so they were facing. With their two hands held together, Wulf placed the other on Ris’ hip. “I always told my men, if you can’t dance on the floor, you can’t in the battlefield.” With that, she started the pair moving, swaying back and forth slightly. “However, it wasn’t until Lucas’ coronation party that I realized I really couldn’t dance.” Wulf glanced down at her feet; they moved with a mind of their own, every step calculated and placed perfectly. “I also realized that I would never hear the end of it until I learned how to dance properly.” Wulf smiled down at Ris warmly, briefly taking note of their immense height difference. She was practically a head taller than the younger woman. “So I hired a teacher. Imagine that, the Captain of the kingsguard, learning how to dance from a woman who I’m pretty sure is older than the gods themselves. I was afraid she’d crumble to dust on the spot.” Wulf let out a low, throaty chuckle, not once stopping their slow, flowing dance.
“Now, the real reason why I dragged you out here isn’t because I just wanted a dance with a fair lady.” Wulf paused in her speaking to outstretch the two of them, twirling the blonde in a circle before pulling her back. When she was back in Wulf’s grip, her gaze turned serious. “Lucas is… worrying me. He just spoke to his sister, which, I know, might not necessarily be a bad thing.” She paused to sigh. “He’s a man, no, he’s a king, and I shouldn’t be fretting like this. But so many people who are enemies of Falor in one room… He's young and intelligent, but not wise. I'm afraid of him making some sort of youthful decision without council...” Wulf shifted her hand, sliding it across Ris’ lower back to pull the woman in much closer. Their bodies were practically touching, and Wulf leaned in to speak quietly into Ris’ ear. “If you see anything strange or suspicious, find me, immediately. It is my duty to protect both you and the king, and I will allow no harm to come of you.” It was then that Wulf loosened her grip, allowing them to move apart a bit more.
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View All » Add Character » 20 Characters to follow in this universe
Newest
Kuan-yu Su
"What is the purpose of this world, if not to be explored?"
Corinna Auclair
"She is free in her wildness, she is a wanderess, a drop of free water."
Capheus Auclair
"I feel desperately deprived of hugs today."
Loras Estermont
"What, do you think I wear this armor to look pretty?"
Asten Swann
"It can't get better than this."
Cedany Ulfricdottir
"I will forge my own path"
Chryseis Wulfston
"I would give my life for the king, without a shred of doubt."
Giselle Auclair
"There is so much in this world. I just want to explore it all!"
Lucas Brigham
"I belong on this throne. I'll prove it to you."
Theran Ulfricson
"This is my family. My loyalty will always be to them."
Trending
Eleora de Croismare
"I am yet a young earth, despite being familiar with scars."
Loras Estermont
"What, do you think I wear this armor to look pretty?"
Juliana Auclair
"I am the Queen of Seabel and I will be treated as such."
Ronan Ulfricson
"If you think anyone is sane you just don't know enough about them."
Genevieve Hansdottir
"What he doesn't know will kill him soon enough."
Adelaide Ulfricdottir
"Please keep them all safe. I don't want to lose anyone else."
Cedany Ulfricdottir
"I will forge my own path"
Giselle Auclair
"There is so much in this world. I just want to explore it all!"
Kuan-yu Su
"What is the purpose of this world, if not to be explored?"
Cyprian Auclair
"It is not titles that honor men, but men that honor titles."
Most Followed
Lucas Brigham
"I belong on this throne. I'll prove it to you."
Cedany Ulfricdottir
"I will forge my own path"
Ronan Ulfricson
"If you think anyone is sane you just don't know enough about them."
Capheus Auclair
"I feel desperately deprived of hugs today."
Loras Estermont
"What, do you think I wear this armor to look pretty?"
Chryseis Wulfston
"I would give my life for the king, without a shred of doubt."
Kuan-yu Su
"What is the purpose of this world, if not to be explored?"
Corinna Auclair
"She is free in her wildness, she is a wanderess, a drop of free water."
Christoph Estermont
"How do we begin to covet? We begin by coveting what we see every day."
Giselle Auclair
"There is so much in this world. I just want to explore it all!"
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110 posts · 20 characters present · last post 2016-09-19 17:03:12 »
Tiberia Owner: Scarlet Loup
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Of Glory
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