Benjy Daverny's Story

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The Davernys could only hope the sea would open up to swallow them whole. Its raging waves more welcoming than the bustling port of the Vale. Where the Black Dodger stands out in stark detail against the navel ships incoming and outgoing. It's black visage a stain on the pristine. The crew looking far beyond worse for wear, most clad in dirty rags and sporting dirt and blood in smears upon their skin. Its most royal of occupants looking even less the lords and ladies that they are supposed to be. In fact, if not for their Mothers constant presence hovering over them the three would likely not have even made an attempt at dressing accordingly for this event.

Each was dressed in traditional attire, yet only Marynn chose to embellish herself with leather belts and tarnished jewelry. Floppy burlap hat still adorning her head and obscuring at least half of her face beneath copper locks of impossibly long hair. Her black corset and frilly skirts were suffocating, she had never been one for this sort of dress and hated even the feeling of its material pressed tight against her skin; she, in her own opinion looked more like a common whore than anything else. She could only take solace in the fact that her mother had attire that reflected her own in an inverse way, sans the additions that Marynn took liberty in.

"Mother didn't have your head for this?" Howell moves to stand at the northern most point of the deck with his sister. Also dressed to the nines, but thankfully he was used to such appearances. His black vest layered over a white long sleeved blouse were still similar enough to his roots that it didn't much bother him, nor did the tan trousers made of fine material. He looked to be the most fit for this life out of the bunch of them. He tugs lightly at the burlap hat, teasingly smiling through gritted teeth despite the obvious distaste in his expression. Marynn snorts - "She hasn't seen me yet." Not that Marynn could say she cared, her mother could moan about it all she wanted but Marynn had outgrown being a simpering child who went along with every wish.

"Have you seen our brother?" Marynn asks, casting her gaze towards the crew with a small frown. She knew too well that her brothers were not the type to get along so well, but she also had a duty to her parents to ensure that each of the three were fit and ready for the upcoming headache of the day. "Not since the night before last," Howell hums, leaning against the railing to catch sight of the hustle and bustle. Brow furrowed in deep concentration, no doubt plotting behind that mask of indifference. Marynn huffs in annoyance but leaves him to his thoughts. It was not unusual that their brother would hole up for days at a time, though she still found it incredibly childish of him to do so today. "Probably below deck somewhere, comatose." he muses after a few moments of silence, shooting his sister another amused look.

"Perhaps..." She purses her lips, annoyance clear in her tone. "I'm going to track him down, he should know better." She spat. "No need," Howell says, catching her by the wrist just as she moves away. He draws her attention back to the port with a half hand point to the docks. "Seems he's already getting acquainted with the local fare." Some feet below their brother stands toe to toe with some girl, looking no less the shopgirl than she probably is. Benjy's appearance mocks his brothers down to the black buckled shoes, though his hair is combed back and slicked down, his face groomed carefully. He seems to be laughing, one hand constantly touching the girl as to keep her attention focused on him. Of course, there is still a wobble to his step. Probably still wearing last night's drink on his breath.

If looks could kill Marynns slant eyed gaze would have destroyed her little brother at that point. "Come sister, we should join him, I believe Mother and Father are rallying the horses anyways." The two are reluctant to depart for a moment, this was the last time in a while they would get to enjoy the view from the deck and while Howell was only marginally less comfortable with the idea he knew that it was killing his sister to be abandoning the ship like this. After all, this could potentially be the last time she got to see it if all went to plan according to their Mother. "I hate horses,"Marynn scoffs, though she has always somehow managed to get the most skittish of the animals - or, if they weren't skittish before her nerves often rubbed off on them the second she mounted. Howell stifles a laugh, leading the way to the docks where the two of them approach their misguided younger brother.

" 'Lo Mary, Skipper." Benjy grins impishly at the two, "This is Shell," He introduces the girl, though there is an obvious edge to his tone. Before Marynn can interrupt with a derisive comment however she looks up past her brother and the maid to spot their parents. Overseeing the preparation of two carriages, one for themselves and one for the children. Marynn was quietly thankful that they hadn't decided to gather individual horses this time around, she was much less uncomfortable with the idea of riding inside of the enclosed space. "I'm afraid thats our departure call darling, I'll be sure to see you again." Benjy kisses the girls cheek, watching her melt under his touch. Hook, line, and sinker it seems. Like many of the women Benjy fishes for. She didn't know any better, and that was most of all what annoyed them all.

"Come on! We've got a long journey ahead of us." Lady Elena comments, despite the fact that by carriage it wouldn't take them quite so long to get there. Non the less they depart on the instant. Packing into the carriages with ease. Marynn sits opposite of her brothers, using her excuse as eldest to stretch across the seats. Smirking at them as they vie for space. Their journey is indeed long, and packed full of annoying bickering among the three siblings. By the time its over and they have reached their destination they are each grateful to be rid of one another. Despite that it comes at the cost of some very uncomfortable ball. They were not the first occupants of the room and it was with great relief at that.

Despite the dirty looks that were thrown their way from various guard and staff members. One of their crew, a squire in title stepped forward to introduce them. His booming voice somewhat comical to his smaller stature and frail frame. "Introducing Lord Hector and Lady Elena Daverny of the Misty Isles!" though they bowed before the king it wasn't with respect, in fact if one looked close enough you could see the slight curl to Lord Hectors lips."We thank you for this opportunity, your grace" Hector bites out the words with as much careful precision as he can muster. Its Elena who takes over in the introductions of their children. "These are our children, Our eldest Lady Marynn -" Elena pauses as if seeing her daughter for the first time, almost going red in the face at the sight of all the additions to her dress. But composes herself to continue on "Our eldest son Lord Howell and youngest Lord Benjamin.....We are all very honored to be here." She narrows her eyes until the children bow and curtsy, though Marynn notably slips away into the crowd the second that she can.

Rhaegar Castillon
[ The Falcon ] [ #B70909 ] [ Outfit ]

Brom Castillon
[ The Peacock ] [ #061B62 ] [ Outfit ]

00000000000Varro Allyrion 000000000000000000 Freya Allyrion 000000000000000000 Lucien Snow
000 [ Young Wolf ] [ #828282 ] [ Outfit ] 000000000 [ The Rose ] [ #7373ff ] [ Outfit ] 000000000 [ The Coyote ] [ #690E0E] [ Outfit ]

Freya was rather pleased with herself and her father seemed to be as well of Freya so easily gaining some favor with the queen. Being on the good side of the queen would aid her conquest of being a queen herself. The queen she deserved to be. Varro on the other hand, was more worried about being in the same room as Brienne and attempting not to want to strangle her pale neck. While Lucien was busy avoiding the eye contact of a very handsome young noble as to not draw suspicion.

The doors of the hall opened and in came lesser nobles and servants with foods and decorations while the king had continued on with the speech the Allyrion's had managed to tune out. "To celebrate your arrival we have decided to throw a feast and ball in all of your honor!" Freya's eyes lit up at the mention of the ball. Surely she would get her chance to dace with the prince and everything would go according to her plan. Varro was less pleased when his father grabbed his arm and whispered into his ear, "Be sure to ask Lady Brienne for a dance."

The two princes had been announced and Varro was unsteady about having to walk over to Brienne after the princes chose their accompaniments while Freya seemed rather distracted which wasn't like her. Varro followed her gaze and finally saw what held his sisters breathe so tightly and threatened her safe little secret. Freya had been taken away by they sheer beauty of none other than Annalys Cavalier. A young flower who's beauty could quite possibly rival his sisters and Freya seemed completely enchanted by her until her attention had been snapped right back to the prince knelt down before her.

Prince Brom was standing before Freya in all his handsome glory blocking Freya's view of the beautiful flower she spotted from across the room. "The most beautiful woman here should have all eyes on her." In an idealistic world, Freya would strut across the room and ask the fair maiden to join her in a dance but this world was not ideal and Freya unfortunately had to play her part as a noblewoman and marry a man her heart could never beat for. Freya seemed fine with the idea so long as it was the prince... Though she was hoping for the other one.

Brom flung his cape back and knelt before her with an extended hand. She's heard tales of the womanizer he was but Freya gladly took his hand and followed him towards the center of the ballroom. He was as handsome as the rumors claimed and Freya could surely use him in her favor of getting close to Rhaegar if needed. Manipulating a man who coveted wine and sex above all is child's play. "If the most beautiful girl here deserves all eyes on her... Then I must not be her." She smirked at him as her eyes fell onto Brienne Chaimbers. "Surely the one who catches the eye of Blackvale's heir must be the most beautiful in the room."

Varro watched his sister dance with the prince completely forgetting he needed to ask a girl to dance. He figured he'd please his father for today but it seemed the devilish little Brienne caught the attention of Prince Rhaegar in her riding rags. Varro was actually relieved by this but now he needed to find a new woman to ask. He could ask one of the Cavalier girls which would please his father or maybe Ilene Thatcher. She was quite the beauty and also a safe choice but Varro went a completely different route as he walked across the room and found himself before a pirate.

His fur cape swung back with a swift motion of his arm as he bowed before Marynn Daverny doing his best to seem poised and confident. "My lady, would you honor me in a dance?" He wasn't really sure how to address her and he hoped he hadn't offended her. It seemed a bit ridiculous for the commander of the royal army to be asking a pirate to dance but Varro actually fond her to be intriguing since the moment she walked through the doors. There was something fiery about her that he liked and it also meant pissing off his father which was going to make this all the more entertaining.

Lucien was standing out on his own at the edge of the ball. He was their as a guard and he had no real status to be allowed to ask any noble woman to dance. He snickered to himself when Gwen had come down the steps nearly taking his breathe away only to ask a pirate to dance. He could see her mother practically fuming which made Lucien smirk ever so slightly as he stood at his post watching the guests twirl around with such grace and beauty.

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CLAEREXXCAVALIER
attire| x

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ANNALYS XXCAVALIER
attire| x

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How long had it been, since so much beauty occupied the same room? Annalys looked over the fair ladies and proud gentlemen, a smile on her lips and excitement in her eyes. Her mother had always deemed material objects true things of loveliness; intricate jewelry and fine garments and glittering decorations. But to Annalys, beauty was a thing of flesh. The ruby tint in a woman's cheeks, the glitter in a man's smile, the smoothness of skin and the sparkle of eyes.

Which is why she felt so at home here, in her own personal Eden, where ruby-tinted cheeks and glittering smiles were numerous and close. And there was a particular beauty; a lady of Allyrion House, who watched her with a delightfully flattering lack of subtlety. Annalys met the girl's eyes, lips curving into a mischievous smile, and bowing her head in flirtatious greeting. Her feet seemed to move of their own accord, and she made a step toward Freya, only for the latter girl's attention to be stolen away by none other than Prince Brom.

Annalys scowled, muttering in annoyance, "Spoilsport. I saw her first."

Claere laughed dryly, squeezing her sister's shoulder in joking support. "Never fear, dear sister. I'm sure you will get your chance to dance with the fair lady before the night is through..." She leaned to whisper teasingly in her ear, "... Supposing that Prince Peacock doesn't win her over first."

Annalys raised a brow, and turned to her sister, scowl replaced by a competitive expression. "Is that a challenge?"

Claere shrugged, wry smile on her lips, only to jump when their mother seemingly appeared from nowhere. "Would you care to explain to me why exactly neither of you are dancing?"

"Well, I would be if not for Mister Cock over the-" "Ahhh-" Claere quickly interrupted, searching for words as she shot her sister a look that clearly asked, What are you saying? Do you want to die? "We were just preparing our... ah... etiquette, mother." Her mother frowned, but seemed to accept the flimsy excuse. "Very well. Finish preparing, then. And swiftly."

As she left, Annalys allowed a scoff. "'Preparing our etiquette'?" "At least I didn't call the second-in-line to the throne 'Mister Cock'." Annalys stiffled another laugh, and hid it behind a sheepish smile. "Fine, fine. Fair enough."

...

"...Now, would you say that our etiquette is well and truly prepared, or..." "Shut up."

000 Sebastian Chaimbers 000000000 Brienne Chaimbers 000000000 Arys Chaimbers
{Lord Bear} {0000B5} {Outfit} {Snowy Bear} {21D3FF} {Outfit} {Little Cub} {E6D622} {Outift}

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Now this had turned into one exciting time to start. Their seemed to be a high abundance of gorgeous women ripe for Arys' plucking though the late entrance of Princess Gwendolyn Castillon was what really caught the attention of the devious little knight. He held his head high has he made a casual strut to be the one to ask her for a dance when she seemed to ignore his a presence. Something no woman would ever do. She instead brushed past and asked the pirate for a dance. Their she was in an elegant dress and red locks with beauty Arys had never seen before and she asked a pirate for a dance over the illustrious knight with his handsome locks and ability to woo any woman. Except for her it would seem. "How is this even possible? How could she brush past me for a pirate far less handsome than I?"

A hand fell upon his should with a snicker that hissed like the snake it came from. "Women do not desire little cub's with arrogant tongues and false eyes over the judgments of their own reflection." Arys' head turned back to look upon his nuisance of an older brother. "But they seem to desire devious snakes with false tongues and looks not even a mother could praise." His eyes lured his brother over to the queen before landing back to watch Sebastian's face form into a scowl and his grip tighten in hopes of causing his brother pain. "If you two don't hold your tongues, I will hold them for you... With daggers." Arys could feel his brother's grip loosen before finally letting go. Sebastian knew better than to anger Brienne. Her threats were never something to take lightly. Not even with witnesses surrounding them. She had their mother to thank for that. Brienne had another sharp comment prepared if something unexpected hadn't happened...

There he was. Prince Rhaegar Castillon dressed like a prince should ready to pick a woman to dance and he was coming straight towards Brienne. She could hardly believe it even when he was there knelt before her. "May I have this dance my Lady?" The prince was asking her to dance? But she was dressed in her god awful riding rags? Why would he choose her? "It would be my honor, your grace." Brienne curtsied before him as she took hold of his large strong hand and allowed him to lead her to the center of the ballroom floor for a dance as the instruments commenced. She had been caught completely off guard and couldn't believe she had been the first one to draw the prince's attention so quickly but she managed to compose herself just as quickly. She admired how he moved as she gazed upon his breathtaking eyes and studied every feature as if she were stuck in a dream until she finally blurted out the question in the back of her mind. "So why would a prince ask a lady dressed in riding rags to dance over every other fair maiden in this room? I do hope it's not only for the sake of creating spite in your mother." Her lips curled into a subtle smirk as she asked the question. She could see the queen was upset about her son's choice so it seemed only fitting to ask the question.

Arys was left in the sidelines once more as it seemed even his sister was favored by royalty over him so now he was left with the task of finding a maiden for him to so cleverly sway. His first choice fell upon Ilene Thatcher. She was a beautiful young woman and an exciting challenge but she seemed more interested in catching the attention of a prince like many of the other ladies. Arys had hoped to then go after Freya Allyrion. The woman who'd made an exciting flirtatious glance at him earlier but she captured the attention of the other prince. This left Cavaliers which Arys gladly made his way over to. He stood before them with a theatrical bow as he went to take each of their hands and plant a light kiss upon the back of them. "The onfamous flowers from the marshes of the east... Will either of you care to join a valiant knight for a dance?" Each of them had a unique beauty that Arys could not choose between so he addressed both of them. "Both of you could accompany me if you so choose. I have two strong arms from the perils of the arena for each of you to hold." He spoke confidently with a plastered smirk as he worked his famous arrogant charm.

Sebastian was the last of the Chaimbers as his glances were stolen away by the beauty of his queen but he was much too clever than to ask her for a dance as he so desired. Instead, he found his wife Myrcella Chaimbers hidden in the outskirts of the room as he knelt before her and took her hand. "My beautiful wife and love that holds my whole heart... Will you do me the great honor in accompanying me for a dance so that I may show off your beauty that puts other women to shame?" She chuckled at his charms as she took his hand. "There is no man I would ever allow myself to dance with other than you, my love." The two went out into the ballroom as they danced and Sebastian twirled her around like she was his queen and the holder of the heart he claimed to have. Though the little dream faded soon enough and a vile smirk came across his wife's lips and she whispered into his ear. "I do wonder, my love... Will my bed be filled with a man as strong as a bear ready to help me bare sons or will he be in the bed of her grace tonight?"

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CLAEREXXCAVALIER
attire| x

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ANNALYS XXCAVALIER
attire| x

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Claere looked about the ballroom, nodding politely and exchanging manners whenever a lord or lady approached. It was not a rare occurrence for people to approach the Cavaliers, trying to earn their favour. They were one of the wealthiest families, one of untarnished reputation and a particular closeness to the royal family. Thus, they were people well-worth accommodating.

She couldn't say the same thing for the Davernys, all of whom seemed to be being subjected to glances of distrust and disdain. She joined the many others in watching them, although her own expression was one of fascination as opposed to disgust. They were truly an interesting sort, and the eldest son and only daughter had even succeeded in attracting hopeful dance partners. She noticed a sway the younger Daverny's stance, and scoffed. Drunk before the beverages have even been served. That's one way to make an impression.

She turned her attention back to the other lords and ladies, and realized that she and Annalys were about to be approached by Arys Chaimbers. "Who is that? Oh. My, he really is as pretty as everyone says." Anna looked to her sister with a mischievous smile, "And I do love pretty things."

"The infamous flowers from the marshes of the east... Will either of you care to join a valiant knight for a dance? Both of you could accompany me if you so choose. I have two strong arms from the perils of the arena for each of you to hold." Pretty as they say... and just as arrogant. Claere opened her mouth to reply, although to reject or accept him she could not say- only to be cut off by her sister, who looked over the prince with that same mischievous smirk."Of that, I have no doubt, good ser." Her smile extended, "However, I am not so fond of sharing, so Claere will sit this one out." She slipped her hand into his, pulling him softly yet insistently towards the dance floor, and winking teasingly at Claere over his shoulder.

Claere rolled her eyes in a mixture of amusement and exasperation, before backing away to the edge of the ballroom to watch the dancing. Truth be told, there was a part of her that was flooded with relief at not having a partner; for a dancer she was not, and she did not desire to step on any toes during the occasion, both literally and figuratively.

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The royal children were unalike the images that had been painted in their minds, even more so the woman. A fire storm burning a path through the hall, to land at the spot right before Howell. He could only say that she was breathtaking, even unprepared there was an air about her that spoke volumes of her being. Howell, for the most part found it incredibly endearing, and saw no harm in accepting her proposal even with the Queen casting them the most horrid looks. Even his own parents were openly staring, his father with contempt and his mother with some sort of pride. Their families were as far apart as could be, two sides of a coin, good and ‘what one assumes is bad.’

He bows in a sweeping motion, silent for all but a moment as he accepts her proposal. Hoping to impress upon her that at least one member of their raggedy band has some manners and depth. Beyond the rum and sea shanties, he was at heart a gentleman and he reveled in the importance of chivalry without degradation. “I would be honored, my lady.” He offered an arm, an escort to the floor where they could dance and speak in light tones. Away from prying ears, as most were already wrapped up in conversation. “It’s good that looks cannot kill, I think your mother may be trying to murder me,” He spoke in hushed tones, whispering it to her just to stir up more animosity from the royalty in the room, a small bemused smirk gracing his features. He found it rather entertaining to think of.

Howell of course meant no harm, though poking the bear felt all the better with a pretty – and from what he can already tell interesting- young woman dancing alongside him. “Twice as lucky I suppose,” He notices his father off on one side of the room, dancing with his mother but eyes kept solely on his children. Though Hectors gaze lingered on Gwen for a long, hate filled moment. Hector always was one to keep hold of resentments and extend them to even the furthest reaching links.

The Daverny family had a reputation, one that had obviously been shown. There were times when this was good – and times when this was bad. But, for the most part they were all of the agreeance that if others were to cast them aside then they too would do the same. However, the here and now had taken a turn for the unexpected, a series of unforeseeable circumstances, at least in the eyes of the children. As they had not fully thought over the implications of the ball, nor did they think they would be seeing any form of kindness shown their way; not in the case of Marynn in the least who flustered uncharacteristically at the man before her. His swinging cape catching her eye for a short moment as he bowed before her.

"My lady, would you honor me in a dance?" Nobody besides her mother had ever addressed her directly as a lady, and even then it was done only in the presence of other nobility. It was odd, to say the least and perhaps what initially threw her off with a small ghost of a smile painted onto her lips. She wanted to say no at first, because, as with everything Marynn had a streak for being impulsive and brash. Being so thrown off by the man that she felt instantly spiteful for all of a few moments. But, she cast one look to her brothers; Howells natural charm and politeness had already drawn a partner in, while Benjy was sniffing about the hall looking for hide or hair of drink – and of course ogling the woman, though his lack of formal dancing skills while moderately off the bottle kept him from approaching for the moment.

It took her one blindingly dumb second of glancing at her mother, at the stern expression plain in her eyes, to curtsy though she was unsure if that was the correct thing to do or not – she attended balls and formal events so rarely that it felt unsure to even smile his way, even if it was almost a grimace. “I’d love to, though you must understand what it looks like to be dancing with a pirate, no?” She felt the bite to her words just as soon as they came. A repentant look just barely surfacing in their wake, she of course had yet to form an opinion of this man but she was sure that he did not deserve her unwarranted attacks. Mouthy as she is she thinks he’s probably already regretting this, if not he probably will – still, she cannot deny his appearance and status. “Forgive me for being so forward,” She utters, swept up in a tizzy already - damn her over reactive brain – “But why me of all the beautiful women in this room?”

Not that it wasn’t an ego boost enough to have an attractive man already on her trail, but it was fairly strange to be picked out among such a crowd. If anything, her insecurities had already began to develop harshly in the back of her mind. From inexperience and no idea what to do, she simply hopes her dancing skills don’t utterly offend – shes got a knack for keeping balance and time, a perk of living her life on board a ship. Always had to be on ones toes to navigate the decks and galleys, particularly during storms whilst the ship would rock wildly.

Speaking of the devil, he had found himself edging away from the dancing, sober to an extent, though still heavy in step. The last vestiges of loose lips disappearing under the scrutiny of strangers faces. He took his time, observing the crowd with broad sweeps up and down each and every person in the room, lingering on the ladies. Most were more modestly dressed than the company he kept, but still there was enough there to catch his attention. He edged towards one of the women not dancing, Claere, keeping a distance as he neared – unthreatening, unimposing, offering her a small smile that didn’t quite mask his overall daunting demeanor.

“I find it hard to believe that a flower as pretty as you have not found a partner.” He bowed as per tradition, remaining a good distance as he was fully aware of the mistrust that ran with his kind – and besides, he did not want to lull himself into over friendliness. Benjy had always been at his base an instinctual man with little holding him back, it was a fairly amazing thing to see him so restrained. “Benjamin Daverny, though most – no, actually all call me Benjy. I’m afraid I arrived too late to catch your name?” A drunk was he, but utterly impressed in his own ability to string together full sentences without a slur – perhaps he had not drunk enough on that morn. He felt absent without the burn of it, and thirsted for more but more so found that he did not want to leave so soon after introduction.

Rhaegar Castillon
[ The Falcon ] [ #B70909 ] [ Outfit ]

Brom Castillon
[ The Peacock ] [ #061B62 ] [ Outfit ]

00000000000Varro Allyrion 000000000000000000 Freya Allyrion 000000000000000000 Lucien Snow
000 [ Young Wolf ] [ #828282 ] [ Outfit ] 000000000 [ The Rose ] [ #7373ff ] [ Outfit ] 000000000 [ The Coyote ] [ #690E0E] [ Outfit ]

There was a soft smile that formed and nearly a chuckle that escaped when the pirate curtsied before him. It was not in intent to laugh at her but it was also a bit amusing how much she stood out from the other women in the room. Varro actually quite enjoyed it. “I’d love to, though you must understand what it looks like to be dancing with a pirate, no?” She seemed to bite back her words as soon as the came but Varro seemed to chuckle lightly anyways at the quickness of her tongue as she responded before he seemed to have the chance. “Forgive me for being so forward, but why me of all the beautiful women in this room?” By this point, Varro had already taken the liberty of taken her hand and leading her towards the center of the ballroom as those in the outskirts began to whisper and stare. He was by no means the greatest dance partner as he could not twirl and charm his partner around the ballroom with elegance and charm like Lucien but lessons with his sister proved he could perform well enough.

Varro held her with closely as they danced around with an amused smile upon his face as he finally gave her his long awaited answer. "Now why doubt your own beauty and charm, my lady? It seems to me your the most beautiful woman in this room." He looked down upon her dress adorned with buckles and belts as his smile grew bigger and he leaned closer to speak softer. "Though you could say it's for the sake of spiting my father as he'd prefer I dance with the woman the prince managed to charm." His eyes fell upon Brienne and Rhaegar. "Of course I'd rather not dance with a woman whom I despise more than my father or bastard of a brother at times. He continued to dance with her though he kept his steps simple finally deciding to attempt to twirl her around and he spoke practically into her ear like a whisper. "Though do think of the songs and stories that will ensue over a pirate winning the attention of the king's commander."

Brom lead her across the dance floor as he held her closely and twirled her around the rooms so lightly on his feet despite his large size. He seemed to scoff at her comment about Prince Rhaegar and Lady Brienne as he gave his response. "Well my brother has horrible taste in women." Freya couldn't help but snicker at his comment as his eyes fell upon the pairing near them. Though a moment of distraction caused Freya to see Varro leading a pirate onto the floor. Now that was surely a sight to see. "He went for the girl that, upon first glance, is most like himself.... And not completely fawning over him." He taken his hand off the curve of her waist as he twirled her around and brought her closely into his arms once more as Freya matched him and snickered at his comment. "Looks can be deceiving, your grace."

"They only look at him for his title." She smirked at his comment and attempted charm. The man was greatly living up to his reputation and Freya found it awfully amusing as her attention had occasionally been stolen by the beauty she had seen before. The fair maiden that was now being seduced by none other than Arys Chaimbers. Freya felt a wave of jealousy ensue her though she kept it well hidden along with her glances from the prince. "Rhaegar is a good man with a kind heart..." He'd come in closer than before as the softness of his breathe was on his ear and she seemed completely engulfed by his large size. "...But titles aren't everything."

Freya looked up with a smirk as it was her turn to play the game with her womanly charm and quick wit. "Forgive me my prince, but you say that as a man, a prince, and the captain of the guard. Titles are everything in this land especially as a woman. I hold no power like the one you so greatly possess and you have the luxury that I do not as a woman. I hold only the power to find a husband though even that is dictated for me by a man and the power to bare him strong sons that is also so greatly dictated by a man." She let out a soft chuckle. "Power and titles hold everything to a woman especially when we ll decide the greatest power of being queen." Her eyes fell upon the queen. "Titles are everything even if we decide them not to be."

Lucien stayed within the outskirts of the floor detached from the ball as he stood like many of the other guards on their post. That was until a young man came to approach him. He stood next to Lucien as he spoke though. "Hello, Stranger," His voice seemed to coo as he spoke to him though Lucien's expression never changed until he locked eyes with his dearest friend and the princess as she gave him a wink to which Lucien responded with a smirk. "I couldn't help but notice you across the way. You are quite the intriguing man. I was wondering if perhaps... you'd care for a dance with me? the young man turned to him though Lucien's attentions were still on the dance floor. A light chuckle came out as he addressing the daring little man.

"You ask a another man to dance openly on lands where that is not allowed. You should be much more careful with your advances as you just asked a guard to dance. A guard whom could rat you out for your carelessness if he desired a different form of pleasure." Lucien finally looked upon him with a smirk. "What you desire must be done behind closed doors here. If you care a dance of sorts you should ask so in a more private situation as I know every secret corridor within this castle for just that."

000 Sebastian Chaimbers 000000000 Brienne Chaimbers 000000000 Arys Chaimbers
{Lord Bear} {0000B5} {Outfit} {Snowy Bear} {21D3FF} {Outfit} {Little Cub} {E6D622} {Outift}

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Today just seemed to get continuously better for Arys as Annalys was the first to respond to his invitation. "Of that, I have no doubt, good ser." Her smile grew large while Arys's smirk grew much more devious than before. "However, I am not so fond of sharing, so Claere will sit this one out." Arys had his own witty response if not for Annalys taking his hand so quickly and leading him to the dance floor though Arys would hardly complain. He simply stopped her once they were far enough in the center and twirled her right into his arms. Arys was a talented dancer as any charmer of women should be. He smirked as he graceful spun her across the ballroom in perfect step and held his hand lower than needed on the small of her back while his other hand held hers.

He was only a few inches taller than the young woman but his boots gave him enough height to look down as he spoke almost into her ear. "It would seem your sister won't need my kind and sharing heart after all as she's seemed to attract the attention of a certain stumbling pirate." His eyes had trailed off onto Benjy and Claere as he removed his hand gently from the small of her back and twirled her around to bring her back as they were once more. "Though it seems I'm the fortunate one to gain the attention of the prettiest flower of the marsh...." He brought her in closer. "Maybe even in all the land." Arys laid the charm on rather thick though it was only in his nature. He had a reputation after all.

There had been some glances towards the direction of the pairing. Though they were subtle Arys noticed them from Freya every so often as she dance with Prince Brom. The man the king suggested would along with Arys nicely. Arys being the arrogant man he was, assumed the glances were towards him as most people, especially women, took notice of him so it seemed unlikely that had actually been for his dancing partner Annalys. Arys also made glances of his own towards the princess as he still seemed torn with jealousy that she went straight for the pirate instead of him. The girl must have been feeling sickly if she hadn't notice him. That would be the only logical solution.

Across the ballroom was Sebastian and his wife Myrcella as their conversation seemed to had grown silent since the mentioning of the queen. Myrcella had always been aware of Sebastian's indiscretions as he was aware of hers considering the men she brought to their chambers while Sebastian was pleasing the queen the way she should be. It didn't matter to the two but that didn't mean Sebastian enjoyed being questioned by his wife. But still, they danced across the ballroom as Sebastian every so often allowed his gaze to fall upon the beauty that was the queen only to return back to his beautiful wife. "If I am not needed my love... I will surely assist you in the making of a son as strong as his father." He assured her.

Brienne and the prince were in the center of the ballroom. Quite possibly the center of attention as they danced together. She couldn't help but smile at his laugh that sounded as sweet as when the soft rain drops would hit the rocks in her home as she stayed within her guarded room. He twirled her around caused her to laugh only for a moment like a young girl caught in a dream. Brienne was quick to compose herself as the strong woman her and her mother were when the prince finally adressed her question from before. "Everything me or my siblings do angers our Mother. Only Gwendolynn is the one to do it on purpose." Her eyes followed his to Gwendolyn and the pirate Howell.

"Honestly... You remind me a lot of myself." He had her full attention once more as she grew curious over how he saw them as alike. He leaned in ever so slightly and Brienne nearly caught her breathe at how close they were now. But only nearly. "I'd much rather be in my riding clothes than this." He glanced down at his outfit and Brienne did as well with a laugh louder than before as her eyes gazed back up at him bringing her back into her dream. It was not likely for Brienne to be like this and nor was it likely for her to be chosen by a man her father didn't so quickly select for her.

"I think you look ravishing, your grace... Like a prince. She smiled up at the prince this time as she spoke. She truly did enjoy his clothes. They seemed far more expensive compared to her family's despite their wealth and luxury. "I'm honored you see us as so alike. Maybe even more than just the clothes on our back, your grace. I am humbled you selected me over the other women far more beautiful than I." Brienne chose her words carefully. She was treading on thin water in the presence of royalty after all. She closed more space between them as her voice dropped to a whisper. "though i'd say we are more alike than you may think as we are both here for the sake of not having someone else dictate whom we are to love." Her eyes had finally trailed away from him as they came to a stop upon Varro Allryion. The man she was to betroth if she did not complete the deal she made with her father.

---

CLAEREXXCAVALIER
attire| x

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ANNALYS XXCAVALIER
attire| x

---

"I find it hard to believe that a flower as pretty as you have not found a partner." The man seemed to have somehow restrained his drunken stupor, and no longer did he sway as through standing upon the deck of one of his family's many ships. But his step was still heavy, and as his swept into a bow, he seemed to be careful of keeping his distance.

Mayhaps he fears the effect of his family's reputation? And yet... it did not seem to put him off drinking to his heart's content... Can't say I blame him, though.

She glanced at him, a faux expression of matter-of-fact melancholy on her face, "As my mother would say... No matter how lovely a poppy is, if you put it in a rose garden..."

Her sarcasm broke into a soft smile, and she curtsied politely in response to him. "Benjamin Daverny, though most – no, actually all call me Benjy. I’m afraid I arrived too late to catch your name?"

His demeanor was rather intimidating, but no more so than heavily armoured men she'd glimpsed as they guarded the hall's doors, or the sellswords she and her sister had glimpsed through the keyhole during one of her mother's mysterious meetings. And his manner of speaking was certainly better than either of them, in spite of the whisky scent on his breath. "Claere Cavalier." Her smile turned amused, as she was thoroughly humored by the man before her, and she looked him over pointedly, "And would I be correct in assuming that you're not in the most sober of states, Ser Benjy?"

---

Annalys felt the suitor's wandering hand on the lowest point on her back, and smirked, amused. As she twirled, she once again thanked the gods that she was not her sister; a creature of abysmal dancing and fearsome lack of flirtatious ability.

"It would seem your sister won't need my kind and sharing heart after all as she's seemed to attract the attention of a certain stumbling pirate." Anna frowned, and looked over to Claere, only to laugh wickedly. "The Blaggard and the Shrew... she'll be delighted."

"Though it seems I'm the fortunate one to gain the attention of the prettiest flower of the marsh... Maybe even in all the land." She smirked as his whispers tickled her ear, offering him a sly smile as he twirled her. "Careful, Little Cub. Flatter me too much and I may begin to doubt your sincerity."

She noticed his envious glances at the princess with another smirk, her amusement blossoming more so. "Though for someone supposedly dancing with the 'Prettiest Flower of the Marsh', you do seem fascinated by our lovely princess."

She looked over at the red-head, drinking in the girl's appearance with a hint of her typical flirtatiousness. "Not that I can blame you."

00000000Avery Thatchter 000000000000000 Ilene Thatcher 000000000000000000 Elliot Thatcher
000000000[Field Lord]0[#F0A804] 0000000000000000[Thorny Rose]0[#CD1076] 000000000000000000[Casanova]0[#551A8B]

---

”Stop glaring at the Princess dear,” Elena Daverny lightly tapped her husband’s shoulder, well-meaning but dark of eyes when Hectors gaze turned away from his eldest sons dancing partner. He was openly scowling now, but stopped when Elena tapped him once more. A silent reprimand, “By the god’s woman, I won’t have no son of mine pining after one of them. ” His whisper was low but carried within a few feet of them, though he was sure through the chit chat and dancing none could hear them. Elena, for all the patience she contained could not stop the slip in her features. Composure being slowly let go of – “Are you daft, or just blind Hec?” She hissed, perhaps the only woman capable of ever talking that way to the Pirate Lord. “Can you imagine what we could reap from that sort of union?”

Of course the both of them had imagined it – Hector begrudgingly and Elena with a small amount of hope that the idea would blossom into reality. Beyond just the riches having a prince or princess under their thumb could afford them a much higher standing. No longer would Elena hide in the shadows of their former glory. “At least Benjy has more sense,” Hector spit. Twirling his wife to face their youngest and the Cavalier he was speaking with. Elena soured immediately, not much caring for her son’s choice, though she knew all too well why he wasn’t participating among the others. A vice had gripped him long ago and nothing she could do would shake it from him. “Even Marynn is dancing,” Said Hector, amused by the very thought of his eldest actually participating. He had to admit, he had been utterly proud of her defiance of them. Elena merely bristled, but he knew that she was silently pleased that Marynn wasn’t hiding in a corner somewhere, glaring at the royalty in the room.

Nearby, Howell twirled along with his dancing partner. "But don't let the Queen intimidate you. Everything I do she disapproves of... She was already fuming mad at me before anyone arrived her at the Keep." Gwen smirked, playfully. Howell grinned back, enraptured by the rebellion the two of them were sharing. , "But... Asking you to dance probably didn't help."

“No,” he agreed, “It probably didn’t.” He followed her gaze momentarily, but did not raise a fuss when he didn’t exactly notice what she was seeing. His usual skills of observation were being muted by the woman dancing with him and the idea alone of pissing his parents off. “No matter,” Howell began, executing a twirl with ease. He was loosening up as the dance went on, shaking off the rust and shake in his step. “I’m glad to say we are not so unalike when it comes down to matters like this,” He let his gaze briefly find his sister, and then his brother to ensure they weren’t causing trouble before landing once more on Gwen. “Though I do hope we can do this again sometime,” He smirked, “If only to see that look on our parents faces again.” Though he was teasing there was a spark of truth in his words, a silent longing.

-*-

“Now why doubt your own beauty and charm, my lady? It seems to me you’re the most beautiful woman in this room.” As his smile grew wider, and he leaned in closer it seemed to only fluster Marynn all the more. Her face growing red beneath the shadows of her hair and she let herself see beyond the unperceivable veil that consistently hid her emotions from view. Beauty and charm, those were words rarely associated with Marynn. Though she would be remiss to say that she did not in some small way enjoy the attention. A small, playful smile adorning her lips as his next words were spoken. “Though you could say it’s for the sake of spiting my father as he’d prefer I dance with the woman the prince managed to charm.” As his gaze turned to the prince and Brienne she too stole a glance at them. “Of course I’d rather not dance with a woman whom I despite more than my father or bastard of a brother at times.” Marynn felt the smile slip, latching on to his words. Her tongue felt suddenly heavy, but she tried not to let her mind wander too far. This man didn’t know about Gabreel, and thus couldn’t know how deeply she felt about Bastards in the first place – she knew that it was a simple term for them, but the hatred that it often brought caused her to hate the word in and of itself.

As they continued to dance she stifled her thoughts on the subject, attempting to get into the motions despite her lack of practice and poise. “I’m afraid I’m not very good at this,” She admitted at one point, entirely truthful. She rarely danced, though her time aboard a ship had given her a good sense of balance that at least kept her on her feet. When he went to twirl her she very nearly slipped, cheeks red as she kept her composure and found herself closer to him than before. His words spoken right into her ear. “Though do think of the songs and stories that will ensue over a pirate winning the attention of the Kings Commander.” That in the least lightened her mood somewhat, a small laugh escaping her.

“The songs and stories indeed,” She pursed her lips, though more so in amusement than anything. When it came to songs and stories – well, she could say easily that there was an even amount of good and bad within them, and most managed to twist things up anyways. She could just imagine the things that bards would be saying of them. Even so she could not stop herself from asking, “Are you not afraid then of what those very stories could become, of the image it could give you? A man of such a high position ought to be more weary of such things." She spoke so softly she may as well not have spoken at all, and louder than, she said; "But I am, at least glad that someone can see past the words on our banner."

-*-
“Claere,” He pondered thoughtfully for a moment, “A beautiful name for a beautiful woman.” He smirked then, more relaxed with her actually speaking with him. He did not know if his drunken shambling or reputation would have scared her away before but it is a relief to see that it has not. “And would I be correct in assuming that you’re not in the most sober of states, Ser Benjy?” Benjy grinned, though restrained somewhat. He rolled his shoulders in a semblance of a shrug and let his eyes wonder for just a moment.

“These events –“He swept his arm broadly, to showcase what he meant. “Are much easier to partake in when not entirely sober, and believe me dear, I could be in much worse a state.” Truthfully enough Benjy had no issue with being sober, however he found that life went by much easier with liquid courage clouding his judgment. “I understand it’s not the best of excuses,” He was proud to have only slurred a few times in that sentence, “But it would be a shame to speak of myself. Tell me Claere, is there a reason you have chosen to stand alone?” He asked as non-abrasively as possible. He knew he probably came off as more prying than he intended to be.

Rhaegar Castillon
[ The Falcon ] [ #B70909 ] [ Outfit ]

Brom Castillon
[ The Peacock ] [ #061B62 ] [ Outfit ]

00000000000Varro Allyrion 000000000000000000 Freya Allyrion 000000000000000000 Lucien Snow
000 [ Young Wolf ] [ #828282 ] [ Outfit ] 000000000 [ The Rose ] [ #7373ff ] [ Outfit ] 000000000 [ The Coyote ] [ #690E0E] [ Outfit ]

Varro had seen the woman's expression change after he mentioned his brother. He did grow a bit curious how he may have up set her but seemed to brush it off as she cracked a joke about not being a good dancer. Varro had laughed at her remark as he gave her twirl and caught her back into his arms keeping his steps simple for her. She laughed at his joke which caused Varro to bring a bright smile to his face. “The songs and stories indeed,” He looked down at her lips as they pursed and she continued, “Are you not afraid then of what those very stories could become, of the image it could give you? A man of such a high position ought to be more weary of such things." Her voice was soft and barely audible for even Varro to here. "But I am, at least glad that someone can see past the words on our banner." Varro simply shrugged at her. "Let them speculate."

He gave another quick twirl before he continued on. "Why should a commander have to worry about whom he chooses to dance with? After all, it only matters that I can lead men into battle and properly hold a sword." Varro laughed though he seemed to fall more serious this time. "Of course what is in a title? Do the words of our families hold truth to who we are?" He began to go through the words of each family. "Rise up from the ashes." Castillon. "Be a shield to those unarmored." Thatcher. "The mountain roars." Chaimbers. "Never forget." Cavalier. "Beauty and strength." Allyrion. "Through yonder we pillage." Daverny. "They're all just words." His voice fell low though his features stayed soft.

Freya and Brom had danced in silence for sometime. She studied his features as they so quickly changed to a hardened look and clenched jaw. Freya thought to say something but she let Brom stay silent and let him gather his talk before he finally filled the empty air with words. "I did not ask for my titles... I do not want them." His gaze fell down to her and she looked up towards him with curious eyes. It seemed an odd thing for a prince to say which only made her long for what he had to say next more. "I became Captain of the Guard to save myself from a worse title... It was my escape." Freya had so much to say but let him continue on. He spun her yet again and brought her close to him to feel his heat radiate to her. "I do not care about titles..." He released her hand and pointed to her chest though her heart stayed perfectly calm. "What's in there is more important that any titles and lack of titles."

Freya held the laugh that longed to escape. He took her hand once more as they went back to dancing. "Well... And how good they are in bed." He smirked down at her and this time Freya finally laugh. Now it was her turn. Well of course being able to leave someone satisfied is rather important, my prince." She smirked up to him. "Though it would seem you're avoiding something..." Freya was a talented manipulator and she'd been reading the prince like a book but she also knew her place. She had to be careful with what she said next. "It would seem you do care about titles. At least enough to hate them and take on the titles of captain." Her smirk changed to a lighthearted smile. "Even I care about them. As I desire to one day be queen instead of just a lady dictated by her future husband. I did not ask for my title either but I do hope to make it a little better."

"Yes, I could very well be in trouble if you were the sort of guard that preferred other types of pleasures. Of course, if the whole chains and bondage work for you, I am game," Lucien could hear the amusement in the little lords voice as he continued to watch the nobles dance. "However, sometimes you have to be bold to get what you want and take the extra risk. Otherwise, you are just living a life of expectations." The young man had inched even closer than before as he put an arm on Lucien's shoulder in order to whisper into his ear. "I like this turn of events. I think my gamble was well received if I am to be rewarded with an invitation to a private dance," Lucien did not look upon his face but he still knew he was grinning. "Where shall I meet a certain guard who knows all the secrets of the castle?" Lucien waited until he was off his shoulder and could straighten himself upright again.

"Meet me in the far east corridor after the ball is finished and I will take you there." He spoke lowly for only Elliot's ears to hear but he could not help smirk that formed upon his face. "Though for now I would suggest dancing with a fine young lady or rescuing the Cavalier form the pirate." His eyes stayed on the dance floor as he watched his siblings dance and caught eye of his dear friend Gwen enjoying herself with Howell. "Presentation is important in our land. Wouldn't want to draw suspicion before our dance." This time he looked down at him only to have his glance stolen away by the queen marching off and Sebastian so carefully sneaking of within the crowd to follow. "Well that's odd." His voice feel much lower than before hoping no one had heard him.

---

---

The ride towards the castle had been sort of a troublesome one since it had rained the day before making the main road they traveled on all muddy and almost impossible to travel on. The carriage got stuck a few times in that damn mud that Selene and one of their guards had to hop off their horses in order to push it out every time. Throughout that time Lilith would watch from inside the carriage, visibly bored but would tease her older sister whenever she had to get down and dirty in the mud. She even stuck out her tongue once like a child which in return received a handful of mud flung at her face. Their parents sure weren't happy about that and even had to hold back a mud faced Lilith from exiting the carriage to execute her revenge. "Honestly Selene! Why don't you act like a lady?" Her father questioned from the carriage, loud enough for his oldest to hear.

Selene flung some mud off of her light armor and rolled her eyes as she sat back up upon her grey steed. "Maybe I don't want to be a lady, father?" She responded keeping up the pace so she was side by side with the carriage. "Everyone knows that Selene." Chirped in Lily with a matter of fact tone and a playful smile. "I couldn't ever recognize you as a lady even in a dress!" She added in as she finished wiping most of the mud from her face with her mother's cloth handkerchief that she handed her. "Ha, ha, very funny Rora. You seem more like a child to me than a lady with that height of yours." Selene grinned and Lily had no come back so she just stuck her head from out of the small window of the carriage door, made a face and stuck out her tongue in which Selene only laughed at knowing she had won that one.

"Alright that's enough you two." Spoke up Lady Elizabeth silently enjoying her daughters little playful argument. Out of the two Elizabeth had to be the more relaxed parent because she just loved seeing her children happy and smiling, it's the only thing that brings her joy in life anymore since she lost Magnus to the now Queen, Guinevere. "There is a Lake," Elizabeth nodded towards the large body of water that had the sun shining brightly over it. "You two go wash up before we get there. We are not visiting your aunt or uncle but the king and I will not have my children showing up like two animals who have played in the mud all day." With a sigh Lilith made her way out of the carriage and Selene off of her horse "Yes mother." They respond in union. "How do you do that dear, get our children to listen to you so easily?" Robert asked bewildered, an expression he shows every time his children listen to their mother without question but give him a fight. "Perhaps it's just a mothers thing, my dear." She smiled at the man across from her, the man whom she does not love but has grown to care about over the years even if those feelings aren't of the romantic kind. She still had children with him and that meant something, to her at least.

Selene walked across the grassy river bank with her little sister in toe before disappearing behind some trees in order to get privacy as they cleaned themselves up. Small splashes could be heard form the carriage along with laughter which only made Lady Elizabeth and Lord Robert shake their heads with a little smile upon their lips.

After some hours back on the road all dry by this point and presentable the Grayson's finally reached the castle. Selene was the first to dismount from her horse and open the carriage door for her parents. Even though she was a noble she was also still a knight from the east and the very first female knight from the east at that. First to exit the carriage was Lord Robert who escorted his wife, Lady Elizabeth out by her hand with grace. Then came Lilith who was helped out by her sister. The family was escorted into the castle but not into the ballroom and instead straight to the king himself. The two sisters looked at each other before entering the castle and gave each other a sigh before trudging forward to their evening of socializing and fake smiles.

---

"Well... I do hope that upsetting our parents is not the only reason you'd wish to do this again." Howell could see the slight inkling of upset in her eyes, ah, his unusual habit of stepping towards awkward had resurfaced. Confidence did so come with a price and his price came in small moments of sudden foot in mouth mistakes. He did not bother to retract his statement however, he found Gwen interesting, a lady who did not act quite like other ladies did – and that had caught his attention from the get go. Dancing with her had been a thrill, and while he knew it would soon come to an end he found himself wondering just when they would cross paths once more.

”I would be honored to do this again,” he spoke lightly, careful now in tone. He did not want to give off any desperation but he did want to convey that he did enjoy her company beyond the way it made his, and her, family feel. ” Even if it goes no further than friendship, you are the most interesting person in this room and I would very much enjoy getting to know you – the real you,” while he had seen pieces of her through their dance he wanted to know more, to see exactly what kind of a person she was. He had never quite been so enamored before, and while he was unsure if his feelings ran deep he knew in the least he would have liked to gain friendship from her. Howell was not alike his brother in the way he found love, he would sooner rely on slow and steady tactics than the intense measures that Benjy often went to. He would not, and could not put someone in a box like that, for he knew that things like this relied on trust and knowledge.

“And while upsetting our parents is a perk of that, it is not the only reason, nor the most important reason.” He smiled, to combat the look in her eyes; it stung slightly to know he had said something foolish. He had always prided himself on being careful and confident, charming in his own ways and not the fiendish pirate others knew him to be.


"Let them speculate." Varro’s shrug left Marynn with the distinct impression that she was being a little silly with her worries, despite her worried often being founded. She could of course, see his point on this matter however, but this world was full of prejudice and just because some people saw different there would always be a dozen more who follow the leader. "Why should a commander have to worry about whom he chooses to dance with? After all, it only matters that I can lead men into battle and properly hold a sword." His words spoke true and Marynn found herself grinning, though she did not do so often it felt so natural that she could not help herself in that moment. It seemed she had not lost the side of her after all, and though she still felt slightly upset at his earlier words she found herself pushing past – perhaps her image of the other people in this room had not been tarnished just yet, she could observe that many had ignored the prejudice that ran thick in their parents. And, his next words caught her attention – "Of course what is in a title? Do the words of our families hold truth to who we are?" He spoke each of the words, an Marynn listed them off in her head. She had known them for so long, and longer more her own words that had only made sense when she was younger and the rule imposed upon them had not mattered so much. And when his voice fell, so too did her smile and she shrugged this time.

”Words are simply words, and yet they hold meaning beyond what we can see.” She mumbled, ”You are very different from what I could ever imagine,” She let herself joke, but there was a seriousness to her expression. ” But in my case, you are very slightly wrong, the words of my family…that is who I am, through thick and then my heart will always belong to the Black Dodger – a sentiment my mother does not seem to understand. She would just as soon ship me off to marry than allow me my rightful place.” Bitterness seeped into her tone, and she found herself biting her lip almost too hard. It angered her to think that her family, well, actually her mother alone had evolved to the point of thinking themselves as true lords and ladies.

”But I understand what you mean,” At the start of this day she had never imagined she would be having so deep of a conversation. It became easier the longer she spoke, natural in a way that she had never experienced before and she found herself letting go of that unrepressed anger just for a few moments at least. It would return, just as always but in that moment she chose to accept rather than reject the feeling that socializing with Varro gave her. ”Well, I can say that this party hasn’t been as completely annoying as I first imagined it would be,” She glanced towards her brothers once more, the elder sister in her wanting to make sure they weren’t making trouble, Howell wouldn’t, but Benjy had always been another story.

"Oh, I wouldn't say that. In fact, I would be half tempted to join you, if I did not value my head so much." Claere was an amusing sort to say the least, Benjy followed her shift of gaze to her mother and while he could see that there was no amusement in the woman’s eyes he felt only amused by it. His question, was quickly answered thereafter. "Dancing. I'm awful at it." That brought another smile to his face, Benjy himself was an excellent dancer and had always loved parties to begin with. Though the ones he normally attended were much more…well, more in all ways. Typically, he did not have to worry about his level of drunkenness, as most everyone was usually drunk from the start. Still, he did not poke fun at her admittance. An inability to dance made her no less a lady than his own sister whom he had been amused to see dancing in the first place.

“Well, that’s the fun of it isn’t it?” Benjy let slip an amused laugh, “Anybody who can dance is only following the steps, the ones who can’t can make up their own.” Partially true in the least, he had never been one to follow along with traditions and if he were to dance it would not be the stuffy twirling he saw now. “I’m a dancer myself under different circumstanced, but I would likely lose my own head if I embarrassed my family here.” Inebriated dancing, while amusing in thought could easily lead to incident and he fancied his own life just as much as he was sure Claere fancied hers. Though he was slowly losing the haze to his head - he should have drank more but moderation had always been key to staying awake.

Rhaegar Castillon
[ The Falcon ] [ #B70909 ] [ Outfit ]

Brom Castillon
[ The Peacock ] [ #061B62 ] [ Outfit ]

CLAERE | X
&
ANNALYS | X

Claere had decided she rather liked Benjy; an admittance she was well aware her mother would be distraught by. But he seemed kind enough, with a jovial personality that clashed heavily with his family's less-that-respectable reputation. Even his tipsiness amused her, when amidst different circumstances it would have only made her scowl. Not to mention he seemed to find these extravagant events just as tedious as she did.

"Well, that’s the fun of it isn’t it?" The pirate laughed in response to her confession, but not with scorn, which was a relief by any means. "Anybody who can dance is only following the steps, the ones who can’t can make up their own. I’m a dancer myself under different circumstances, but I would likely lose my own head if I embarrassed my family here."

This time, it was Claere that laughed, and she glanced at the Lord and Lady Daverny as she smiled. "Best not, then. T'would be a shame to waste such a nice head."

♔ ♔ ♔

He was a pompous fool, this Little Cub, but Anna couldn't possibly doubt his charm. Prettiness aside, his confidence was contagious, and even with her mother standing by, Anna could feel herself growing wilder with every second spent in his arms.

"Is that a challenge?" She offered him only a sly grin in response, but when he proposed a 'friendly competition', her brow quirked in curiosity.

"A competition?"

His grin was just as sly as her's, if not more so, and for a brief moment, Annalys wondered if the title 'the Little Snake' would have been more appropriate.

"Whomever can convince 'The Rose of The North' to honor them in a dance shall win the title of most desirable for the evening."

Annalys frowned slightly, turning her gaze to the Lady Freya. She really is beautiful...

Annalys turned back to Arys, and feigned contemplation. "An interesting notion... but a competition's no fun without a punishment..."She smirked teasingly, "What should you have to do when you lose?"

---

"The realme wakes before the sun rises and the kingdom stirs... envelopes itself in the outdoors on horseback." Her smile is enough to light the room, and yet, it drifts into something somber that tugs at Howells own heart. "Then it slumbers at the moment my Mother arises." Her situation was plenty different from his own and yet he shared kinship with the frown upon her face – his own mother was no shining example of what one should be. Perhaps, once upon a time before their lives were restricted by the Vale, she would have made a better mother than the one so concerned with fitting in. What had happened to Lady Elena the brave? Had she too been swept away by the undertow of politics? Non-the-less he shared Gwens sentiments entirely, but he still felt the need to learn more.

His own words seemed to produce the desired effect of lightening her back up. He was glad for it, as they continued their dance for what felt like blissful eternity. Howell was not one for love at first sight, and this occasion did not present such ridiculous romantics, instead, it was an exercise in figuring himself out and what he truly felt in terms of the people whom he had only seen and heard of a handful of times in his life; and those stories were often laden with aggression and harsh hatred, only that of the likes his parents could dream of. So lost in his inner musings he did not have the time to notice that Gwendolynn was near peril, not until it was too late and she was detached from his arms. The harsh glittering of the crystalware grating his ears, silence befall the hall as if it were important to create that much of a spectacle out of this.

Howell felt badly for Gwen and the Server, right in the center of the attention and took this moment to try his best to not make matters worse. Instead he turned, and spotted his younger brother among the crowd. Benjy himself seemed to be having a marvelous time, despite earlier misgivings that he would cause the most trouble at this event. He considered stopping to chat with him and the lovely young lady he was with but thought better of it, intruding on his brothers ridiculous mating dances always ended badly in the long run anyways. Howell had no doubt the trouble would only continue on from here, but for the moment he extracted himself from the floor and pressed against a nearby wall. Still a bit jilted from the ceremony at hand and his general exhaustion.

His rest was quickly cut off as his mother approached, fire in her eyes. Though her ascent was quickly cut off as she snapped her head in the direction of Benjy, his position not too far from them. She pursed her lips, “Why does he even bother? He used to be such a good boy you know.” Howell sighed, leaning further into the wall as if it would hide him. “I know mother,” What more could he say? This was a spiel he heard more than once a week, if it wasn’t one it was the other and he preferred hearing of Benjy than Marynn, whom had garnered so much hatred from their mother that it burned at Howell.

“And you,” His Mother turned rapidly, “Are foolish not to have secured the Princess’s heart, do you know what that sort of union could do for us?” Elena was whispering, as to not arouse suspicion. Howell rolled his eyes. “I don’t believe that’s how any of this works,” He almost spit the words, but managed to rein in his anger to keep it casual. “Of course that’s how this works, its politics Howell, nothing more, nothing less.” In other words, love and friendship, trust and respect – none of it had anything to do with their reason for being there. Marrying them off was simply the quickest way to rid of them, whether love as involved or not.

“All my children are weak,” Elena mused aloud, “I expect you’ll do what has to be done to right this, before this court season ends.” If only to get her to shut up and go away Howell nodded. Elena at last seemed to have gotten the message and pulled away. “I love you Howell, you are my son, my pride and joy, don’t forget that.” Something soft had edged into her voice, something that he only heard when she was trying to be manipulative. Even as a child…well, Elena wasn’t the most loving person out there. As she left he let out a sigh that manifested every ounce of annoyance and exhaustion in him. He couldn’t imagine what it would be like in the following days.

~*~

Benjy was delighted to hear Claere laugh, especially without condescension or polite reservation behind it. "Best not, then. T'would be a shame to waste such a nice head." His own chuckle echoed in the following silence, for a long moment he could not fathom why everyone had gone silent. One long look around the hall gave him the reason why in an instant. And although his laugh was not directed towards that particular incident he still could see his mother shooting poisonous glares at him from across the way – of course. “It looks like the Princess isn’t faring too well either,” Benjy did not make light of it, despite his usual nature of poking fun he could tell this was not the time nor place. His mood had begun to dim as the alcohol seeped from him minute by minute and he could begin to see why most people preferred him tipsy or drunken, he was rather dull of mind when things began to wind down.

“A shame indeed,” He spoke low, turning back to Claere to further their small chat. He quiet liked her, despite having a few misgivings earlier. She did not shy away, and seemed to hold the conversation quite well with him. He had been afraid at first that his reputation would scare her off as it did many women – well, many was an exaggeration considering he spent most of his time in the shantys, among the commonfolk whom were dying to get a hand on any form of currency. The women there would do anything for a nip of rum or a gold coin. “I dare say this night is turning out to be quite entertaining, and here I thought that I’d have to make it interesting to enjoy my time here – you my dear, have squashed those thoughts”

~*~

"I didn't know dancing with a commander had the possibility of being annoying but I am no prince." He teased with a grin, and Marynn for the life of her couldn’t stop her own from resurfacing. She had not exactly meant it that way but she was glad that he hadn’t taken it as unkind either. As the song came to an end, signaling the switch of partners Marynn stood awkwardly, silent and unsure of herself now. She had been surprisingly enjoying the moment, despite the somewhat gloomy discussion. It was then that Varro leaned into her ear and whispered, causing shivers to go up and down her spine. I understand the bitterness you feel in your heart..." She didn’t understand, she opened her mouth to ask him what he meant when they were rudely interrupted by Brienne.

Varro was swept away by the headstrong woman, and Marynn was left a little wide eye’d and weak knee’d, staring after him as he mouthed an apology. what had he meant? Would she ever get to know. Marynn slipped into the crowd unseen to find her father among the throng of bodies. He at least would listen to her. “What’s the matter, child?” He asked upon her approach, Marynn was unsure of what the look on her face must have been but if it garnered that much concern it couldn’t have been a good one. “Nothing,” She lied, unsure of why she was lying in the first place. “I’m going to step out for some fresh air,” She spoke again. Her father seemed to catch her drift, “I’ll make sure she doesn’t notice,” He said, a twinkle in his eye. Speaking of her mother whom would certainly have a fit if Marynn suddenly disappeared from sight.

“Thank you,” She rushed off to find a way out of the hall, somewhere where she could stop and take a breather. She was not used to these functions, and she certainly was reeling after her encounter with Varro. Was she being childish? Weak? She couldn’t imagine why he had such an effect on her, if any an effect at all. It had been a long time since she had been around men who were not her brothers or shipmates so maybe that was it….Though she highly doubted it.