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The Prince and the Shieldmaiden

The Prince and the Shieldmaiden

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Can a sickly prince and a foreign shieldmaiden survive being bound together in a game of nobility and deception?

9,626 readers have visited The Prince and the Shieldmaiden since almostinsane created it.

Introduction

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Byrdain is an island kingdom protected by sea from her neighbors, the most prominent being the powerful Holy Empire of Valmagne to the south and the pagan Kingdom of Fjellborg in the icy northern waters. For centuries, the tribes and mini-kingdoms of Brydain fought one another for dominance until two hundred years ago, Duke Liamette Augustus of the Duchy of Valois in the Valmagne Empire invaded the island, backed by a claim on the most prominent kingdom in Brydain through marriage. Through a combination of superior weaponry, diplomacy, sabotage, and the support from the Holy Father of the Church of the Triune God, Brydain was finally united under one king and in the peace that followed, prospered culturally, economically, and militarily.

Yet, Byrdain would not remain without conflict. Soon after the death of King Liamette the Conqueror, the Emperor of Valmagne seized the Duchy of Valois from the Augustus Dynasty, provoking a series of deadly wars where Byrdain finally won it back only to lose it as the Beserkers of Fjelborg began to rain the shores of the island kingdom, culminating in an invasion that would see many of both nation's best warriors fall along the coast of Byrdain.

It had been meant as a slight. After all, it was no secret that the Crown Prince of Brydain despised his younger brother and his younger brother did not have warm feelings for him either. But the kingdom had been at war with the Beserkers of Fjellborg for over a decade and neither kingdom could pass over the opportunity. Thus, when the Crown Prince suggested at a peace conference that his younger, sickly brother marry the fierce daughter of King Jorvik the Hammer, both him and King Artos of Brydain took his words seriously. The younger prince was a scholar who valued his wit and bow over brute force and the shieldmaiden daughter of Jorvik fought hard for a place among her father's beserkers. Yet, now, they are to be wed together for the good of their people's. But what happens when King Artos the Great dies the morning after the wedding and the Crown Prince assumes the throne?

Roles

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The Prince|Eddie Redmayne|Played by almostinsane

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The Shieldmaiden|Olga Kurylenko|Played by phoenixheart

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The Crown Prince/New King|Faceclaim|Played by Sirius Baren

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King's Ward/Noblewoman|Caitlin Stasey| Played by nezzyrps

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Handmaiden|Nathalie Emmanuel| Reserved by TheCrimsonLady

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Patriarch of Byrdain|Sam Neil| Played by almostinsane

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Royal Herbalist|George Blagden| Played by almostinsane

(More upon request)

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Toggle Rules

1. Although this was originally conceived as a small roleplay, there is no longer any limit on people joining. There is no character limit as long as you can handle them.

2. No god-modding.

3. Sex is expected, but the rules of the site are in force so please take it to PM's once it gets heated.

4. Literacy is expected. Up to two paragraphs per post is the minimum.

5. Respect your fellow roleplayers.

6. Have fun.

The Story So Far... Write a Post » as written by 6 authors

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Julius Gadfael
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The smell of tea filled the room, its scent calming his raw nerves. He should not have lost his temper with the Patriarch. Artos was not king anymore, he reminded himself. He was not here to discipline his son or protect his servants from Brynjar's wrath, but the whole injustice of the situation. As the water was brought to a boil, he did not hear Evangelina enter until he he heard her voice.

"Brother Beorn? Brother Beorn? Are you alright? What happened?"

Her voice was beautiful. Even with his soul lost in the storm of his emotions, he could not help, but admire it, so different from those of the Byrdain or the Fjellborgans or even the Valmagne. He tried to give her a small smile as he set the pot of tea down and added the tea leaves.

"I apologize for my emotions troubling you, Lady Evangelina. I am... I suppose I am in a struggle with the Spirit. I have thought ill of not only the king, but my superior in this land," he confessed, reaching for a pair of cups to pour the tea in. He reached for the lemons growing beside her dusky hands, brushing them with his as he picked one to cut into slices to serve with their tea.

"Artemesia taught us virtue, but the good Patriarch rushes to obey him above all things. Above his honor. Above God. Certainly above the people he was taken from among. I have prayed ceaselessly, but I receive only the answer in my heart."

He led her to a small sitting area near some blossoms that were just beginning to bloom the spring's chill.

"Wicked men cannot be unopposed," he whispered softly. It was a small sound, but strength underlay it, like a centuries old oak standing tall and silent. He gazed at her. It did not escape him how the king looked at her, how he longed to break the strength he had begun to adore.

"Forgive me. I have forgotten your own trials. How are you? I wish you could have seen us at our best, but you see us at our worst."

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Heat ran up and down his body. In his preparations for Ingrid's breakfast and their subsequent other activities, he had not noticed, but he could feel a fever growing in his skin. It was not deadly. Rather, he knew it would annoy him all day. But here, in his own bed with his beautiful wife's body entangled in his and her head resting on his chest, he felt doubly tempted to plead illness and lay with her all day. He felt her fingers tapping against him and he lazily snaked his arm around his waist.

"We should dress," she announced and he found himself nodding reluctantly, "I should be there to see my father off and you need to show me where this chapel is that we are to use."

They remained in bed and Leo brushed a strand of hair and kissed her cheek. It was an innocent gesture despite their previous activities. He would be content to just have her in his arms all day and admire her beauty. Those songs he heard every feast for as long as he could remember suddenly did not seem so silly now, but they had business.

"We haven't moved. Tell me we need to move."

"We have to move. If we don't do so now, we'll never get anything done," he replied, reluctantly. He sat up, resting on their bed for a moment before slowly standing up and beginning to dress himself. He smiled at her.

"My brother was short-sighted to ever refuse your hand and as always, I thank God for his stupidity. I pray her it continues to benefit us," he told her lightly, though there was a sort of steel behind his words. They had resolved to remove him from the throne for their own safety and the good of the realm. Once on this course, they could not falter. For their sake and for the sake of the child they had resolved to bring into being.

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"Your reasoning is sound... Indeed, it is the Holy Chair's wish to foster greater ties with the Northmen so that hostilities may cease completely between them and Artemesian lands. I also hear he has been impressed by their berserkers and would deeply love to see them become Artemesian knights. He wrote a letter of approval to your father about your brother's match. I see no reason this match would not please him."

Truthfully, Julius was taken aback. Brynjar had never shown anything but contempt for the Northmen up until now. Now he wanted to wed one of them? He thought for a moment.

"It is a satisfactory match, Your Grace. Your vassals may not be entirely happy, however. It is one thing to lose your hand to a fellow civilized Artemesian. It is another to lose your hand to a pagan woman from our recent enemy's ranks. Rest assured, I will work tirelessly to placate them or, if need be, silence any objections through harsher means... You are certain Lady Elska will say yes?"

Setting

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen
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"I apologize for my emotions troubling you, Lady Evangelina. I am... I suppose I am in a struggle with the Spirit. I have thought ill of not only the king, but my superior in this land," Beorn said, preparing tea. It did not go unnoticed the way he brushed her hand when he removed the lemons from the tree. That was oddly refreshing, dealing with the King and his directness was tiresome. It was nice to see a man try to garner her attention with subtleties.

"No need to apologize, Please, what is on your mind, feel free to speak it." She said softly, watching him as he pour the tea for the two of them.
"Artemesia taught us virtue, but the good Patriarch rushes to obey him above all things. Above his honor. Above God. Certainly above the people he was taken from among. I have prayed ceaselessly, but I receive only the answer in my heart."

With that, he led her toward a sitting room, where the flowers began to bloom. She was beginning to truly love this little place. It felt like home, even if the flowers were foreign to her. She couldn't even name most of them. Listening to Beorn's words, saw where this was going. This was about the King, and apparently the Patriarch was going to do nothing about him.


"Wicked men cannot be unopposed," he whispered softly. The words sounded old, like a decree. Evangelina sighed. He wanted something to be done about the King, but there was nothing he could do with the Patriarch's help, and in that, it was hopeless. Or so it seems. It was at that moment, that Beorn looked at her, and she saw it. He was worried for her. She was the personal attache to the King, and probably though her the next target. He wasn't wrong. He just didn't know her too well yet.

"Forgive me. I have forgotten your own trials. How are you? I wish you could have seen us at our best, but you see us at our worst."

Evaneglina smiled, and reached up, laying her hands atop his. "I've seen the world at its worst." She said and took a breath. "I was young when the illness took my parents. My mother first, she tried to give birth to my brother but she took him with her instead. then my father, not having the strength to fight the illness without my mother. I was...how do you say...15 years" She said. "I only arrived in this part of the world, a few years ago...I've seen many a men, some good...most not so good. I was a ship and it took a year to arrive here. It was not easy, sometimes, there were storms, and sometime there were others..." She said, recalling the memories. It wasn't easy traveling on her own, but she did it. "I braved those storms, and I can brave these ones too....and this time, I'm not alone." She said and gave his hand a squeeze. " I have a friend." She said and gave him a bright smile.

Setting

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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Image Elska could see that bringing up Ull wasn't the greatest of choices, but she needed to get her point across. She saw his pain and could see the reflection of that horrible day haunting his eyes. Elska couldn't stand the distance between them any longer. He had stepped towards her and she reached a hand out to him. She rested it on his chest where she could feel his heart thumping beneath her. "It is not your fault that Ull was killed," she said gently. "He fought as valiantly as any berserker could. The one responsible for his death is to blame, not you." Elska frowned thinking of Brynjar. It forced her to remove her comforting hand from his chest since anyone could spot them.

"You will not lose me Tyr, I can promise you that much." She murmured the words. She was not the one that Brynjar wanted to cause pain. "I know you're worried for me, but I won't change my mind. I'm going to stay." She spoke softly but she was resolved. He couldn't sway her. There was nothing in the world that could send her away from Tyr.

"You're father will be departing soon, I am sure he is waiting for you to come to say goodbye." She folded her arms once more close to her body. "We should go," she insisted before turning from him. She didn't wait to see if he was still following her. She was afraid of who might have seen them together. There was one person in particular she prefer'd to avoid.

Image "You make a valid point Patriarch, but even if I chose someone from within our court one of the other noble houses may feel snubbed or cheated. The way I see it there will be those displeased. At least this way we will ensure the security of our borders with the north. With the strength of Fjellborg behind us other kingdoms will think twice before attempting to wage war against us." He spoke smoothly.

"Isn't it part of our duty as Artemesians to show the better path to our pagan neighbors?" Brynjar had never really felt religious. It was only when it suited a means to an end that he really bothered to delve into it. "I do believe she will say yes." He knew she wouldn't refuse him. "But for now I would like this kept quiet. I want to properly court her for a little bit before making my intentions known. I think it will be the best way to ensure a smooth marriage contract."

"I must go and see our honored guests off and I'm sure you have work to finish. Thank you for your counsel Patriarch." Brynjar left the Patriarch's chambers and walked quickly to the large entrance of the castle. Brynjar was the first of the royal family to arrive. Jorvik had his party assembled in the front courtyard. Brynjar approached and dipped his head stiffly.

"Your visit was a great honor to us," his words were formal and an expected part of the goodbye. Brynjar glanced over his shoulder as Elska appeared with Tyr not far behind her. He got a mischievous glint in his eye thinking about what he had in store. Elska looked a little flushed and avoided meeting Brynjar's gaze. She did curtsy low before Jorvik before stepping aside. Lelinus and Ingrid wouldn't be too far behind.

"You look radiant today," Brynjar gazed down at her but she still wouldn't look up at him. He stepped close enough to invade her space but not enough that she felt she had to retreat.

"Thank you, your grace," she murmured demurely.

"I am pleased that you are committed to staying. I must admit a part of me was afraid you might have changed your mind and would be leaving with your people today." He was speaking softly so it was difficult to over hear. She finally met his eye and something steely and hot flashed in her own dark ones.

"I will not abandon my family to your madness." Her lips were in a thin line and barely moved and she whispered to him. He gave her a devilish grin.

"I am not a completely horrible person, at least not as grandly as you've made me out to be." He held a hint of suggestion in his tone and she clenched her jaw.

"I have yet to find any quality that might redeem you or your actions." She said stiffly and turned away. She faced forward and nearly jumped when he had leaned his head down so he could whisper in her ear.

"Give it time, you will see." The words were barely a whisper. To the spectators it looked to be a very intimate conversation. Elska gripped the folds of her dress but refused to look at him. She kept facing forward and didn't dignify him with a response.

Setting

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Julius Gadfael
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Her hands were warm upon his. He gazed down upon them for a moment, absently rubbing a thumb upon them as he listened to her story with sadness in his heart for his misfortune, but more joy in his heart than he had any right to feel upon hearing her pronouncement. He looked up and returned her smile. He gripped her hands tighter.

"I am honored to be called such Evangelina," he told her, for once forgetting the honorific he insisted on attaching to her name. In his mind, she had greater right to it than many a lady in this great palace and he had been unafraid to tell her so.

"I admit, I have been quite fortunate in my life. I was one of the few that survived my village's burning. Father Aiden was the local priest and healer and I was fascinated by how he could create almost anything from the plants in his garden. I was about eight summers when we were gathering plants in the forest and returned to find it destroyed. Destroyed by the Northmen."

He felt a shadow pass over him at the memory, but he paid it no mind. He had long finished morning for what he lost. He did not know why he was telling her this, but he felt he had to share some of his past in exchange for her own.

"Then I met Brother Severus and joined the Order of St. Clemens. Second Degree. I felt that I could not take a vow of celibacy if I was unsure I could live up to it," he told her with a slight smile, "I served with them both here taking care of the prince and... It just became home. As though I were a seed caught up in a storm and landed on good earth and took root. And King Artos... I have never met such a man."

"Perhaps it can be a home for you too," he said hopefully. It was a warm invitation. It made no demands and asserted no rights. It was an offering of whatever she would take with a sliver of his own hope mingling with it.

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"As you say, Your Grace," Julius told t he king with a bow of his head. He was no fool. He knew that Brynjar had a play in mind when it came to this match. Perhaps he really did want peace. However, he had noticed the hatred in the young prince's heart when Artos lived and he had no reason to believe it had quite abated upon taking the throne. He looked thoughtful as he drafted a new document.

It was only prudent to do a full assessment of their capabilities in the art of war. Their levies were bloodied, but exhausted at the moment, but new blood would replenish them in ten years time, a quicker time frame than the frozen north possessed. Then there was the matter of his Cardinalship and the coffers of the crown.

In the Name of God and our Holy Church, I do hereby authorize the investigation of the head of the Order of Saint Clemens, Brother Severus in the matter of heresy and alleged disobedience towards his superiors. Pending the approval of King Brynjar Augustus, By the Grace of God, Lord of Brydain and Protector of Realm."

He sighed and placed the missive between the pages of his account booklet. He did not intend to go through the inquisition just this moment, but Brother Severus did not bother to hide his contempt for him. The bishops knew that speaking overtly against him would earn them only the king's wrath and an excuse to confiscate their bishopric before the Holy Seat learned of the truth, but a zealous monk? No, it was best to make preparations in that event.

Setting

2 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen
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"I am honored to be called such Evangelina,"Beorn said and she merely smiled in return, patting his hand.

"I admit, I have been quite fortunate in my life. I was one of the few that survived my village's burning. Father Aiden was the local priest and healer and I was fascinated by how he could create almost anything from the plants in his garden. I was about eight summers when we were gathering plants in the forest and returned to find it destroyed. Destroyed by the Northmen." He said and she frowned a little, he was so young when he lost his family, she couldn't bare to think what she would have done at that age.. She opened her mouth speak her condolences but he began again.

"Then I met Brother Severus and joined the Order of St. Clemens. Second Degree. I felt that I could not take a vow of celibacy if I was unsure I could live up to it," Evangelina couldn't help but chuckle at that. He was sure to point that out,again his interest was far from lost on her, if he was aware of it or not. The smile told her he was. "I served with them both here taking care of the prince and... It just became home. As though I were a seed caught up in a storm and landed on good earth and took root. And King Artos... I have never met such a man." He said and her smile faded. He had a way of making even a foreigner feel at home. In the weeks she knew him, it was as if she'd known him for years. She had to strengthen her resolve, for King Artos' sake.

"Perhaps it can be a home for you too," He said and she smiled at him, a little oddly. "Well, my people believe the world is our home, which is often why we move so much, home is, family, friends. I am never away from home if I am in the company of such." she said. "So this is my home and has been since I met King Artos." She said and recalled when he spoke of this place. Specifically when he spoke of his son. "He told me. 'My son would not know what to do with a woman like you.' He wasn't wrong." she said with a smile."He believed truly that I could bring something good out in him....I am not so sure," she said and her eyes drifted. Whatever good the old King saw in his eldest was buried deep, so deep it likely suffocated in the dark.

Setting

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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"Wise as always my love."

Ingrid sat up in the bed as Lelinus climbed out and began to dress. "My brother was short-sighted to ever refuse your hand and as always, I thank God for his stupidity. I pray her it continues to benefit us."

Ingrid reluctantly swung her legs over the edge of the bed. "I'm sure it will," she replied as she stretched and began dressing herself. "I think I would have been drawn to you regardless of the situation."

Ingrid pulled her tunic over her head, grateful to finally be out of those torture devices the other women at the court were wearing. How on earth those women made it to the end of the day without fainting was beyond Ingrid. She had been feeling light headed after an hour, never mind the entire day. Fashion, she decided, was ridiculous, especially here.


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Tyr felt his heart quicken a moment as Elska rested her hand against his chest. "It is not your fault that Ull was killed," she said gently. "He fought as valiantly as any berserker could. The one responsible for his death is to blame, not you." Tyr felt an odd sense of longing as she took her hand away. He had never been one to crave another's touch, he had been an independent child, even when his siblings had been born. He had rarely reached for his mother's hand. This was madness. "You will not lose me Tyr, I can promise you that much. "I know you're worried for me, but I won't change my mind. I'm going to stay."

"I think you might be more stubborn than Ingrid."

"You're father will be departing soon, I am sure he is waiting for you to come to say goodbye." She folded her arms once more close to her body. "We should go," she insisted before turning from him. Tyr frowned, confused by her sudden distance from him, but he followed her nonetheless.




Tyr watched, his lips pressed in a thin line, as Jorvik and Brynjar exchanged pleasantries. Elska curtsied before stepping aside. Tyr clasped his father's arm as Jorvik placed a hand on his shoulder. "Take care of your sister lad. Make sure she doesn't kill anyone," he said jovially before pulling Tyr into a hug, clapping his son on the back. "Keep an eye on Brynjar as well. I don't trust the lad," he added, his voice low enough that no one else would be able to hear the words.

Tyr frowned. If Jorvik didn't trust Brynjar, then why on earth would he agree to let Tyr and Elska stay? "Why-"

Jorvik pulled away from the embrace. "I will see you soon enough." Jorvik looked up and saw his daughter coming down into the courtyard. Tyr turned and struggled to suppress a smile as he saw Ingrid dressed like a northmen for the first time in a week. He saw Lelinus not far behind her. Both their faces seemed flushed.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, we couldn't find my belt."

Tyr had to bite his lip to stop the laughter. He raised an eyebrow at his sister as she stepped forward to Jorvik. "You are going to visit?" Ingrid asked Jorvik.

Jorvik mussed her hair. "Not for a while lass, but just try and stop me."

Ingrid threw her arms around Jorvik's neck, burying her face in the furs of his cloak. "I'll miss you."

Jorvik wrapped his arms around Ingrid's waist, and almost lifted her from her feet, one of his hands stroking her hair. "Aye lass, I'll miss you too. No doubt you'll have plenty here to keep you busy. You can start by showing them knights they've got how to fight like real soldiers."

"I don't think even I have that much skill."

Jorvik laughed. "Always modest," he said as he set back down on her feet. "I would tell Lelinus he has to look after you, but I get the feeling you can manage well enough."

"He's been good to me, you don't have anything to worry about."

Jorvik nodded and smiled. "Good." He pressed a kiss to Ingrid's forehead. "You take care of yourself and the whelp you're married to. I'll see you again before you know it." He turned and mounted his horse. Jorvik dropped his gaze onto Lelinus and nodded at the prince. Aye, the Gods had granted Ingrid a good man in him. Sickly and weak, but a good man nonetheless. "Thank you for your hospitality Brynjar, I have no doubt we'll be imposing on you again in the future if my two have anything to do with it." She could have been married to that sore excuse.

Tyr took a step closer to Ingrid as they watched the northmen ride away. "Couldn't find your belt? Is that what we're calling it now?"

Ingrid's arm came out and hit her brother in the gut. "Give over," she was quiet a moment as she put an arm around his waist. She began spelling out a message. Meet here after dinner. "Bring Elska if you can."

Tyr nodded, wondering what his sister was up to that required such secrecy. She was up to something, he knew that much. "I'll see what I can do."njar, I have no doubt we'll be imposing on you again in the future if my two have anything to do with it." She could have been married to that sore excuse.

Tyr took a step closer to Ingrid as they watched the northmen ride away. "Couldn't find your belt? Is that what we're calling it now?"

Ingrid's arm came out and hit her brother in the gut. "Give over," she was quiet a moment as she put an arm around his waist. She began spelling out a message. Meet here after dinner. "Bring Elska if you can."

Tyr nodded, wondering what his sister was up to that required such secrecy. She was up to something, he knew that much. "I'll see what I can do."

Setting

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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Image Brynjar quirked a brow as Lelinus and Ingrid arrived for the farewell. Both of them had a flush to their cheeks, although Lelinus' seemed more pronounced. Ingrid's excuse was a half-ass one and everyone knew it. Brynjar was irked that his original plan for Lelinus and Ingrid seemed to have been foiled quickly. He didn't understand what it was but the two seemed bonded and connected in a way that shouldn't have happened considering how new their union was.

Ingrid embraced her father and Brynjar took the opportunity look down at Elska who kept her gaze forward. She was refusing to acknowledge him and a subtle grin rose on his face. It was interesting watching the exchanges between Jorvik and his two surviving children. Their relationship was far different than the one he had with his father and brother.

"You seem awfully concentrated on a point in the distance." He murmured barely moving his lips. Elska watched as Jorvik pulled away from Ingrid and mounted his horse.

"I'm trying to determine that if I ignore you, would you simply disappear?" her words were sharp despite their low volume and Brynjar began to chuckle. Her face was impassive and smooth and he had to admit he was impressed by her self control. He had to give her more credit than he originally had. If his plans succeeded then perhaps she wouldn't be a dull companion.

Image "It was a pleasure to host you and you are always welcome in my home." The words were stiff and formal; they were expected. It was this that gave Elska a chance to look at him. He was imposing and dark. There was a shadow in his eyes that clouded his emotions muddling them together so it was impossible to decipher each one. Elska watched her kinsmen ride away and felt exposed and hollow. Without them they had lost protection. They were a formidable threat in numbers and now Brynjar had three of the most critical players to Fjellborg under his lock and key.

Elska's eyes darted to Tyr and Ingrid as they stood close to each other. It was a bittersweet sight. Without Ull the two looked off balance. The two were comfortable with each other as was indicated by the jab to Tyr's gut. She saw as Ingrid pulled Tyr's hand to her own and was tracing his hand. To anyone looking it was random and a sign of affection between the brother and sister. Elska knew it was a private way they communicated and it made her wonder what Ingrid was thinking.

Brynjar hardly noticed the pair as his posture stiffened with the departure of his late father's guests. Now he no longer had them depleting the stores or tainting the blood of his people. A part of him knew it was a bit hypocritical to think as now Lelinus was tied to their own, and if Brynjar had any say in it he would be tied to Elska. It didn't matter though. Right now it was all about causing discomfort and inflicting pain with as much subtly as he could.

"Lady Elska," he turned to her and she reluctantly took her eyes from her closest friends to look at Brynjar. She felt dwarfed next to his bulk and prayed he never got her completely on her own.

"What can I do for you, your Majesty?" the snip of her words prompted him to step forward and invade her personal space. The look of alarm that crossed her face achieved his goal.

"Would you join me later today, perhaps this evening, for a ride? I want to show you parts of my kingdom. I have a well mannered horse I think that will fit you perfectly." It was almost laughable since they both knew it wasn't really a request but rather a demand.

Elska pursed her lips tightly. "It would be my honor, but don't even think of saddling me with a palfrey mare." She challenged him and he gazed down at her approvingly.

"No?" Elska was a gently bred woman despite her Fjellborg blood. She wasn't the fighter like Ingrid was. Yet there was a hot burning fire beneath her cool facade that Brynjar wanted to tap into. "Then perhaps I can show you the stables now, and then you can pick out a mount suitable for your needs." He suggested.

The thought of extra time spent with him that wasn't necessary made her feel sick. However, if they were riding later in the day she needed to have a horse with spirit and hopefully strong legs incase she had to escape Brynjar. She thought back to the horse she had left at home and suddenly wished she had him there. Byrdain was famous for their warhorses. She had heard stories of the beast--rather, the demon--that Brynjar took into battle. Would that be the same horse he would ride later?

"What do you think?" he prompted when she had been lost in her thoughts.

There was not much for Elska to do at the moment and she didn't want to risk any extra time with Tyr--though her reasons for that were vastly different.

"Very well, let's go." She submitted. He offered his arm and she reluctantly accepted it.

Setting

7 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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"It is in a father's nature to see the good in his son even if it is obscured by the darkness in his heart," Beorn began. Truthfully, it was hard to see the good in Brynjar. He doubted that the man could ever be redeemed, but he knew it went against Artemesias' teachings. He tried to sound optimistic.

"We are taught that no man is pure evil. Even the most vile man can seek redemption... But we choose who we are going to be, Evangelina. You are strong and good. If you cannot bring out the good in him, then he has chosen to murder the evil within himself of his own free will. I would try to fulfill your promise, but the king would not hold you accountable for his son's own actions." He told her.

He looked out the window. The sun was rising swiftly.

"The Northmen are getting ready to leave. I should see my prince."

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Leo smiled slightly as he saw his wife dress in the northman fashion. It wasn't something most courtiers would approve of, but it fitted her and honestly, he was tempted to damn the formalities and show her how much he liked it, but they couldn't behave like newlyweds now. Not after what they had agreed to begin.

He flushed slightly at the way everyone seemed to be looking at them. They didn't look that flushed, did they? He smiled pleasantly in Brynjar's direction regardless. If their activities could perturb his brother, it was just a bonus. He met Jorvik's gaze as he said his farewells. He wasn't about to let his daughter be hurt. Not if he could help it, as weak in body as he was. He was heartened to see Beorn standing in attendance. When the foreign king had left, he went to greet his friend.

"I see you are at work nurturing new life," he stated in amusement. Lelinus laughed.

"You have a sophisticated way of putting it."

The monk shrugged, "I am a monk."

Lelinus gripped his shoulder, "I would ask you to pray with me later this afternoon. At the old chapel, you know the one. Please."

Beorn nodded, but paused in confusion at his next request.

"I would ask you to bring Evangelina. For her perspective on children of course. At the rate we are going, we hope to start a family soon," Leo told him. Beorn could smell the bullshit in his friend's words, but merely bowed his head.

"Of course."

They watched the pefromance of his brother and his newest target, saying nothing. After a moment, Beorn looked away. His heart was troubled and the look on his friend's face did nothing to soothe it.

Setting

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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"It is in a father's nature to see the good in his son even if it is obscured by the darkness in his heart," Beorn stated and Evangelina looked up at him. She knew that, in fact, she thought it herself, but to hear it from someone else, made it all the more daunting.

"We are taught that no man is pure evil. Even the most vile man can seek redemption... But we choose who we are going to be, Evangelina. You are strong and good. If you cannot bring out the good in him, then he has chosen to murder the evil within himself of his own free will. I would try to fulfill your promise, but the king would not hold you accountable for his son's own actions." He said with an urgency that unsettled her. He was telling her to leave, he didn't mean it, not in some many words, probably wasn't aware of it, but he didn't believe that there was hope, and she would only be putting herself in further danger. He was likely not wrong.

She was quiet, she didn't want to argue the point, and for some odd reason, she didn't want him to know how badly she wanted to make Brynjar to submit...to her. She wanted to win this game. . She realized then that King Artos while he truly did want her to find the good in his son, wasn't her entire motivation for staying. It was....pride. However small, it was pride that drove her to stay, to put up with abuse that any other man would have been feed his teeth for. There was a thrill that she got from this. Something that made her otherwise provincial life more exciting. She did not want to tell Beron that. She hardly wanted to admit it to herself, though it was true. She felt guilty, and a little ashamed for it and Beron, while it was clear his feelings even if they weren't entirely clear to him, for her, was part of his motivations and she couldn't say for certain that she even felt remotely the same, meant something to him. His opinion mattered. He really was a friend and she didn't want her pride to cause him to think less of her. What did her staying in the lions den, knowing full well she was want the beast lusted after, and baited it, constantly, got a strange thrill, a rush from him, say about her? Some of the other servants, thought she had been sleeping with the King, and enjoying it while most of the other women feared being chosen for his next meal. She wasn't afraid of being chosen, and she wasn't sleeping with him, but she was...enjoying it..whatever it was.

Beron looked out of the window to the rising sun and she hoped her thoughts were betrayed on her face.

"The Northmen are getting ready to leave. I should see my prince." He told her and she nodded. "Of course." She said, and rose as he did. All this time they spoke and they didn't work on a single lesson. She could have chuckled, if her mind wasn't so clouded. She wanted to clear her head, or at least think without Beron being in the room, eyes appraising, surely he must wandering what demon possessed her to stay. She wandered that very thing, what crazed spirited snuck into her mind and make her feel all of these things.

"I'll be in the gardens, if you need me." She said and they both made their exit.

As she made her way to the gardens, she noticed an unmistakable smug voice. King Brynjar. She couldn't hear what he say, but there was another voice with him, smaller, softer....timid. Evaneglina sighed as she watched the King and his chosen victim, the one she'd tried to turn his attention from the night before. She never caught her name, and wished she had. She would have liked to tell the woman that she had an ally here, but how? When?
A small voice in Evaneglina's mind, sounding oddly like her own said "why?"

Why save her when she didn't fight back? Or was she fighting back in her own way...or, like herself, did she too get the same odd rush from Brynjar's sick attention. Granted, he wanted to break her resolve, he wanted her to give into him and all she wanted to was prove to him that he couldn't, but there was something about that, him wanting her to give in, was where the rush had been coming from. She wasn't a prideful person, but maybe it had something to do with her so used to being invisible, that the attention of a King, two kings, now, had done something to her. Changed her thoughts on her self, one King thought her so unique, so different, that he thought another King -however recent, would find her interesting too....and he did. Or was it that, she won earlier today, and was ready for another challenge. Ready to win again?

Watching the two as they walked on, Evaneglina found herself walking in their direction, thankfully she stopped herself before doing anything foolish. She shook her head. This was wrong, so very wrong. She should not care what a man- using the term loosely- like Brynjar thought of her, if he saw her or not.

So she shouldn't have felt the almost overwhelming urge to go call his attention away from the other woman and back to her. She should feel bad for the girl....not jealous of her.

That sudden realization sent Evangelina urgently toward the gardens and away from the couple, to where things made perfect sense, unlike the acute insanity that she must be suffering, that caused her to turn her head, and secretly -and stupid wishing that he turned to see her, meet her gaze. He wouldn't not, and she shouldn't want that anyway.

Setting

6 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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When their noon meal had begun, Leo knew something was wrong. His vision was cloudy and his head burned. His fever throughout the day had become worse than ever before. He reached for his goblet and drained it, attempting to parch his increasingly dry throat. His brother had just finished saying something, but he couldn't place it.

He straightened. No, he could not allow himself to succumb. True, the great hall was devoid of a great many courtiers, but he knew word would get out. He stood up, turning to Ingrid.

"I feel... We must get back to our rooms. No one must see," he murmured, fighting against his failing voice. He stood, striding as confidently out of the room as he could manage, mentally apologizing to his wife for his stubbornness, but it was important to avoid a scene. Still, he could not manage more than a few steps before collapsing. There was a rush of movement as his collapse caught the attention of the room. Beorn was upon him in an instant.

"Poison?" He asked, the young monk's voice betraying suspicion. He felt his head and then his neck and jaw, "No swelling. We have to get him to my room."

Setting

4 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
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Ingrid sat by Lelinus as they ate. Ingrid picked at her food, her appetite largely non-existant. There was something on the table that smelled odd. Not bad per se, but maybe she was coming down with something. She chewed slowly as she looked over at Lelinus. He looked paler than usual. She steeled herself, it wouldn’t do for both of them to become sick, not now. “Are you alright Leo?” she asked quietly, lest Brynjar overhear her.

"I feel... We must get back to our rooms. No one must see.” Ingrid frowned. His voice sounded frailer than usual. She felt his hand. His skin was too warm and clammy.

“Leo…”

Lelinus had stood before she could say anything. Ingrid placed her cutlery down when Lelinus collapsed. Ingrid rose from her seat and rushed to his side with Brother Beorn. The holy man looked concerned, which only served to make Ingrid more worried than she already was. "Poison?" Beorn asked as he felt Lelinus’s face. “No swelling. We have to get him to my room."

Ingrid nodded and took Lelinus’s hand. “Come on love,” she said quietly, helping him to his feet. She put her arm around his waist, keeping him upright without making it obvious she was bearing most of his weight. Brynjar was already going to have a great time with this, she didn’t want to give him the extra weaponry of her carrying Lelinus from the hall. Ingrid followed Beorn to his room where she helped Leo to the bed. She brushed his hair back from his head and pressed a kiss to his forehead. “It’s alright love, Beorn’s here.”

Ingrid stood back from the bed, making way for Beorn. She felt slightly breathless, more than she probably should have. It hadn’t been that long a walk to Beorn’s room, had it? True she had been carrying Lelinus for most of it, but still. Ingrid took the seat by the bed and watched Brother Beorn. “Will he be alright?”

Setting

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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Image Elska was grateful for the casual affair that was the noon meal. She felt a bit more relaxed despite the tension that seemed ever present in the air. The departure of her people left a strange and hollow feeling. It was not lessened at all whenever she'd allow her eyes to stray to Tyr. She took a small bite of her food as her mind drifted back to the stables and horses Brynjar had shown her.

Elska was impressed by the various steeds they found in the stables. She was even distracted from the anxiety that leeched from her in Brynjar's presence. He had stepped back to watch her idly as she slowly walked down the length of the stable looking between the horses.

She had stopped briefly in front of his own horse--Baelfire. The beast was a demon on the battle field and as ill tempered as his master. Though something in Elska's calm demeanor had the horse approaching her calmly. Brynjar had his arms crossed against his chest as Baelfire allowed her to stroke his forelock. She seemed to sense to the power behind the stallion and retreated her hand rather quickly.

"He's terrifying." She commented without looking back at him.

"He has to be," Brynjar watched as Baelfire bumped his soft muzzle against her shoulder. "Any other, and you'd have lost your nose by now." Elska didn't doubt the truth of his words as she sensed something sinister behind the dark eyes.

They moved on quickly as Elska was afraid whatever goodwill the stallion may have felt towards her would vanish and she'd lose a finger.

Brynjar brought her in front of a stall a few doors down revealing a mild dapple mare. She was a beautiful thing to be sure, but part of Elska felt a bit insulted.

"What's the matter?" Brynjar sensed her hesitation.

"I am from the North, and I can be as wild as the wind," she spoke vaguely, "if we are to go riding later, you must settle me with something that has spirit." She straightened to her full height and leveled him with her gaze.

Brynjar pierced her with his gaze but she wouldn't back down. She was an odd mixture of bravery and fear. She had strong convictions, and while it seemed he may bend her towards his will, he realized she would not break. She was only here because he had leverage.

"Then I have the perfect horse for you."


Image Brynjar had left Elska shortly after the stables to attend to some of his new duties as king. He had been too busy to think much or come up with anything devious. The royal household had convened together for lunch. While Brynjar could have continued to keep working he had decided to keep an eye on those he was slowly tangling in his web.

Elska was not seated next to him this time. Instead, it was Lelinus. Lelinus was next in line to the throne and his position was at Brynjar's side. Brynjar was in a rather good mood and didn't try and pick a fight with his younger brother. Brynjar was mostly thinking about the ride he would take with Elska later. While his motivations were against Tyr and Ingrid, he was finding her fascinating.

Lelinus was getting the all too familiar flush of fever and Brynjar glanced discreetly between the newly weds. Lelinus had shown moments of weakness since the wedding but he had yet to fall sick. Brynjar watched as Lelinus excused himself and rose to his feet. He wondered how Ingrid would handle Lelinus' frail health now that it was in front of her face.

Elska watched curiously as Lelinus had risen from the table and seemed to be in great haste to leave the hall. Her eyes widened in shock as he had only made it a few strides before he collapsed to the ground. She quickly stood, her chair scraping against stone like the few others participating in the meal. Ingrid had rushed to his side and Beorn had quickly stooped low.

"Is he all right?" even though she was a few seats down from Brynjar, he seemed the only one left closest to her to ask.

Brynjar heard Beorn's word, but surprisingly this was not due to Brynjar's meddling. Ingrid was helping support Leo and they quickly abandoned the hall to return to their chambers. It was rather odd watching the warrior princess half carrying her sickly husband. This would be the topic of conversation as soon as it spread through the castle.

"Don't fear Lady Elska," he turned and saw the concern riddling her face. "My brother has always been predisposed to boughts of illness. He always recovers." He assured her. Though recovery was usually the worst part. As a child Lelinus would spend weeks bound to his bed because he was too frail and weak.

Elska lost her appetite. Brynjar was king and the next in line had very little physical strength. She felt as though the House of Augustus would fall like cards and it would all be from the whims of a mad king.

"Are you finished Lady Elska?" his question cut through the cloud in her mind.

"I suppose so. Do you suppose we should check on them?" her brow cinched together in worry.

"Nonsense, Brother Beorn has it under control. This is not the first time he has tended to my brother." Brynjar pushed his chair back and stretched languidly. His lack of concern made Elska feel more ill. Brynjar was quite content with the development. Perhaps this would be the instance that would do his brother in. Perhaps fate was settled on his side.

"Would it be wise for us to go riding this afternoon?" she questioned unsteadily.

"Be at peace," he waved his hand. "Lelinus may succumb frequently to fevers, but with Brother Beorn and Ingrid at his side he is sure to be in good hands. You need not worry." Brynjar was starting to feel frustrated. He was used to Lelinus falling ill. "My brother would not want his illness to prevent you from touring our lands."

Elska bit her lip. She didn't want to get in the way and she hardly knew Lelinus at all. She also knew what Tyr's opinion was of her riding alone with Brynjar, but what other choice did she have?

"Very well, I will be ready later." Though there was still a frown at the corner of her mouth.

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Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
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Evaneglina finally had a night off. The royal family was convening alone for dinner with a few of the staff to serve them. Thankfully, Evangelina wasn't one of them. She was just as happy o have a night to herself, and perhaps she can get her head right. Her self-evaluation about what she saw with the King and that woman was disturbing. She shouldn't get such a rush from having the attention of a monster, but it didn't stop it from being true. She sat in her chambers, which was considered small for such a big palace but it was larger than anything she knew what to do with. The little cottage she had before this when she met King Atros was smaller than this.

She sat at a desk, make her bracelets, she hadn't had the time nor the energy to make them lately nd she found she missed the pace of it. It was a slow, tedious process, but she appreciated it. It gave her time to think. She threaded the beads one by one, her thoughts lingering on the King. It was wrong, but she figured she might as well get it out of her mind now, while she had the time. The last thing she needed was to be confused while in front of him. She needed a clear head. When she thought about the last encounter, and how he simply asked her for a kiss. If she were honest with herself, she was tempted. What a shock that would have been to him. He enjoyed her fire, but she enjoyed showing it to him. She was glad for any chance to defy him. Evangelina sighed. Here she was supposed to be bringing out the good in him but instead he was corrupting her. Her thoughts anyway. She set down her beads and rested her head on her chin. What was happening to her?
She looked down at her work and noticed the shape of the beads. She chuckled ruefully.

A scorpion...

It was then she heard a few of the servants in the chambers and noticed how much of a ruckus they were making. She peeked out of her chamber doors and looked out. "Excuse me?" She asked a small man as he made his way passed. He smiled warmly. "What's happening?" She asked and he shrugged. "The dinner was cut short, we don't know?" he said and then walked off. She had more questions than she had when she started but with that she just made her way toward the King's chambers, since surely he would need her to do something. that quiet voice in her head told her that this was another oppurtunity for their little game. She really needed to do something about that small voice....

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Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen
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Sweat already sulked Leo's skin and Beorn cursed his friend's recklessness. He had to notice he had a fever this morning. He should have called for him then. He could have prevented the worst of it. Now, he would spend weeks recovering. If he recovered, a traitorous thought whispered in his mind. He shook his head. He couldn't think negatively. Not now. He watched Ingrid tenderly kiss his forehead as she help him lay him on the bed.

"Ingrid," Leo murmured. He was conscious of what was happening around him at any rate. That was a good sign. Beorn got to work smashing some dried herbs into a powder before stoking his fireplace in preparation to boil water in his kettle.

“Will he be alright?”

"If his fever breaks, he will. He has broken the siege every time. There is no reason this time should be any different," he announced. He reached for his shelf, producing a flask of serum. He examined it carefully, noting the colors and the texture before finally nodding.

"This is still good. We can give him a little as I prepare a fresh batch. We are in luck. My stores have just enough for one more and the garden is in season. I should have plenty of supplies to treat him."

He left for a few minutes to draw water from the well, returning with a bucket to fill the kettle and to dip a rag in. He rung it out and offered it to her.

"We can only wait it out and speak to him while he fights this battle."

Setting

7 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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Image The sun was starting to hang low in the sky by the time Elska had gathered her courage and headed for the stables. Brynjar had sent a servant to her asking if they could delay their tour by about an hour. The reason had been for matters of state he needed to attend. Elska had changed from her light and flowing gown into a pair of dark leggings and a tunic. This was the one area of life that she preferred to go against tradition and expectation. She knew that side saddle was common among the courtiers of Byrdain, but it wasn't so in Fjellborg.

As she came around the corner and was in view of the stable entrance, she was surprised to see Brynjar was already standing with both mounts. Baelfire was chomping at his bit and pawing restlessly at the ground. Next to him stood a horse with a less intimidating stature, but fierce nonetheless. The horse was dark grey in color and his coat nearly shimmered in the sun. He was a thing of beauty.

"This is Silvein." Brynjar was pleased to see the admiration in her eyes. Elska approached and touched the velvet muzzle. Silvein had intelligent eyes. She trailed one hand down his powerful neck and could feel the energy rippling beneath the surface.

"He's remarkable." She murmured reverently.

"You said you wanted something with spirit."

Elska nodded her head. She was itching to ride now despite her companion. Brynjar moved over to her side. Elska was about to refuse his assistance, but he had already wrapped his large hands around her waist. He lifted her up into the saddle effortlessly and the surprise of the movement stole her breath.

"That wasn't necessary, I am perfectly capable of mounting on my own." She responded sharply and he gave her a roguish grin.

"I know." He mounted Baelfire.

Elska was suddenly quite aware of her riding attire and she could feel his eyes run up her legs and settle on her hips before they flicked to her face. She was distinctly uncomfortable and Silvein sensed her unease. He began to shift beneath her nervously.

"If he's going to be too much for you to handle, I can always have something more tame saddled for you." The way he said it got under her skin and she gritted her teeth. She forcefully shook her head.

"Don't be ridiculous." She forced herself to calm and soon Silvein stilled. Brynjar gave her an appraising nod before he took the lead and they began to walk out of the stable yard.

Image Brynjar was impressed with Elska's equestrian skill. Silvein was as spirited as Baelfire was ill tempered. She commanded Silvein easily and the dusky stallion responded to her as if they had been companions their whole life.

"Where are we going?" he could see that she was guarded but she had finally relaxed.

"I want to show you the best view." He wouldn't say more and continued to lead the way. They exited through the large castle gates and Brynjar made a sharp turn leading away from the path that would have taken them down into the city.

Elska felt her stomach rolling over. She forced herself to breathe evenly as she continued to follow Brynjar. She watched as the sword strapped to Brynjar's hip bounced lightly against his leg with each step.

"Perhaps we should've brought your guard with us." She nodded to his weapon of choice.

"Force of habit." He shrugged. "I am the best swordsman in Byrdain." His words oozed arrogance but she didn't doubt them. He wasn't called a bear for nothing. "Besides, you're safe with me."

"Am I?" she asked boldly.

Brynjar eyed her, sizing her up. "I'm not completely the monster you make me out to be Lady Elska." Brynjar softened his voice hoping to slip through a crack in her walled defenses.

"But you still are a monster." She was blunt and he didn't deny it.

They were silent for a while after that as the two horses continued on their way. There was a great meadow that stretched before them that would take them to a large hill. Elska felt her skin itching for a hard gallop and she could sense the same in Silvein. It wouldn't be proper or appropriate etiquette so she tried to box up her restlessness.

"Do you race Lady Elska?" Brynjar could feel the tension rolling off her body in great waves.

"It is not a proper past time for a dignified lady." She sniffed and looked away from him. She knew he read right through her. Her mind drifted to days gone by when she would race Tyr or Ull in Fjellborg years before.

"I would not think any less of you," the soft magnitude of his words brought her attention back to him. "Don't you want to see Silvein's full range of abilities?"

Elska bit the edge of her lip. She wanted to see what Silvein could do. She looked around. The city and castle lay behind them, and an expansive distance lay before them. There was no one around. She didn't particularly care what those in Brynjar's court thought, but she didn't want to continue the thread of thought that all of them were barbaric and unrefined.

The two horses had stopped by this point. Elska's fingers twitched and she Silvein's great muscles tense and tighten beneath her. He was coiling up like a spring. She decided to throw caution to the wind. There were many emotions bottled up and she had to let the cap off. Without a word and only the faintest of touches Silvein's shot forward like and arrow. Elska leaned low over his neck and gave him full rein. He was magnificent. She felt the ground fall behind them as the great horse flew with his hooves.

Brynjar had watched her charge forward with a self-satisfied smirk. He only gave her a minute lead before letting Baelfire kick after the pair. It was remarkable to watch Elska ride. She and Silvein seemed to melt into one, responding to each other. Her dark curls were flying wildly in the wind and after several lengths he could hear her delicate laughter in the air.

Baelfire caught up to Silvein and the two horses ran neck and neck until they came to the hill. Both riders reined them in until they crested to the top of the hill. They slowed to a stop and Elska's eyes were alight with life and excitement. Brynjar was pleased to see that she had lost her guard somewhere back on the meadow floor and it would take a moment for it to catch up.

Brynjar was growing confident in his decision to take Elska as completely away from Tyr as possible. She was a prize well worth the work to achieving.

"I do not think I have seen many a greater horseman than yourself." Brynjar meant the compliment. She was graceful and poised and had one of his worst horses coming to her like a lamb. He watched as her flushed cheeks deepened. "Your skill is quite enviable."

"Indeed?" Elska was out of breath. "Such pretty words from a pretty mouth," she shook her head. "Pretty words aren't easily trusted."

"You doubt me?"

"I know you were holding back. We would have been eating your dust." She gave him a pointed look and he laughed.

"I didn't say you were better than me, but you certainly are better than many of my knights."

"Does you arrogance have no limit?" she smarted but she did smile.

"Not that I have found." He nodded and the horses began to walk slowly to cool down. "Just a little further."

They reached a drop off point that faced the valley that stretched out to the horizon. The castle was in the distance now and the city just beyond it. The sun was on its western descent at this point. It was a marvelous view and Elska was quickly wrapped up in the moment. The glow that was cast upon the landscape was awe inspiring.

"This is what I wanted to show you." Brynjar's voice startled her out of her reverie and she realized he had maneuvered Baelfire as close to Silvein as the two stallions would allow. Brynjar had reached out to touch Elska's elbow. It was as being branded and she was snapped back to her reality. She remembered she was alone in very dangerous company, with a man who didn't hide that he had an agenda, and could not call for help nor out run him.

The panic began to settle in and she urged Silvein to put a bit of distance between them.

"Why do you shrink from me?" his voice was low.

"Because I have not forgotten that you seen me as nothing more than a pawn in this revenge game you have set the board with." Her words were sharp.

"I am just a man Elska," he didn't try and approach her. "And you are just a woman."

The reminder made her feel sour. "Admit it, the only reason you invited me on this ride was to lay a blow against Tyr." Her back was a ram rod and her words were stiff.

"It was not the only reason." She didn't miss that he hadn't deny the accusation. "You are a beautiful woman, and I did want to show you what my kingdom looked like from this angle. There is beauty here Elska, and I wanted you to see it."

The sun had dipped behind the horizon now. The sky was fast approaching twilight. Elska didn't fancy the idea of being left alone in the dark with Brynjar.

"What do you want from me?" there was an edge of desperation in her voice. She knew these games would get tedious very quickly. She hoped perhaps in a week or two she would be able to leave this place with Tyr and not look back. She refused to think over the fact that they would be leaving Ingrid behind.

"I want Tyr to feel pain," his brazen honesty wasn't a surprise, but this time Brynjar moved Baelfire forward again and this time he took her hand. "But I'm starting to think that there is more to you than that."

Elska felt her skin tingle unpleasantly where his hand had captured hers. The air surrounding them was starting to feel heavy and stiff. "If you think I would join you in your bed as a concubine, you're wrong."

"I knew that already." His words had shaken something inside of her. If he didn't intend to force her to whoring herself around, what was the dark look she saw past the depth in his eye.

"We should head back. We've been gone a very long time." She managed to pull her hand out of his. He didn't protest. They guided their mounts back down the hill. It was when they reached the base that they noticed the unsettling large spiral of smoke rising from the castle in the distance.

"Do you often have bonfires?" Elska asked as the plume of smoke was dark and thick around the middle.

Brynjar felt his concern grow as he shook his head. It was not a natural smoke coming from the hearths in the castle. He didn't like the look of it.

"Let us make haste," his mind had moved from Elska and was now focused on the column in the distance. They spurred their horses into a canter.

It took near an hour for them to enter through the castle gates. By this time the column was thick and black. As they had approached it was evident the fire was coming from the kitchen gardens. They dismounted and abandoned their horses to one of the stable boys. Elska was hot on Brynjar's heel as they rushed through the mayhem around them. Elska's mind jumped to Ingrid and Tyr. Were they safe? Had one of them started it? She quickly threw that thought out. It was preposterous.

The kitchen gardens were larger than Elska would've thought. The plants were scalding and smoke filled the area making anyone bold enough to approach choke on the air. Elska's eyes watered and burned as she pinned her sleeve against her face. She coughed and wheezed. By now there was a line of men using buckets back and forth trying to put out the large blaze. There were some of the woman putting out the smaller fires with carpets and blankets.

Brynjar stared at the fire in horror. If they couldn't get the blaze out it would consume the castle. "How did this start?" he barked to a man in the line.

"We don't know sire!"

Brynjar moved past the line. He moved away from the main source as he caught a glimpse of dark skin behind a burning log. Brynjar felt his stomach twist painfully as he realize a large branch had broken from one of the trees and had successfully trapped whoever had been dumb enough to be close by.

With horror, Brynjar realized the idiot was Evangelina. He gritted his teeth and growled. The way the branch had fallen had put her in a corner. The smoke made it difficult to see her clearly, but he knew it was her. He felt his anger flare with her. She was going to get herself killed.

"What are you doing here?" he shouted at her as he rushed forward to grasp the small portion of the heavy limb that hadn't ignited in fire. He felt the heat scorch into his skin as he pulled the branch up. He could feel the flames licking hungrily at his boot. His muscles were shaking as he kept the limb hoisted up high enough for Evangelina to get out. Once she was out he was about to drop the heavy branch when there was another distinct crack.

The tree had split in two. Brynjar did not have enough time to reach as the tree came to a shrieking halt on top of his body. The burning branch had trapped his legs and the half of the tree that had fallen lay heavily on his chest. He cried out in pain as the smoldering tree burned through his tunic and into his skin.

While Brynjar had taken off further into the garden Elska had quickly taken an extra blanket that had been shoved her way and she began to hit the fire as best she could in hopes of smothering it. The smoke was choking her and soon she had streaks of soot across her face as the fires fought back.

Was Ingrid still with Lelinus? Did they know that the herb garden had caught fire? Why would this fire go out?

Elska squinted through the haze trying to see if any of the men in the bucket assembly were Tyr. She had lost track of Brynjar and had to quickly put her attention on the burning bush in front of her.

Setting

7 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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Evangelina sat in the garden, enjoying the sweet fragrances that came from each of the unique and foreign flowers of this land. Of course, they were only foreign to her. As she whispered her fingers over the velvety petals of the red rose, she wondered how long before this place felt like home. She'd been in this part of the world for a year or so now, but the place never felt like home. Even when she had her own little cottage in the small town where the king had found her selling her wares. She'd thought at once, that it was because of her coloring, she would go months without seeing anyone with her shade but that wasn't it, perhaps it had something to do with the fact that her accent was still as strong as it had been when she'd first arrived. She didn't want to give it up nor did she try so that couldn't be it either.

Then she thought back to these last few days in the palace. The place was filled with intrigue and danger, making her feel even more out of place. She had no idea who did what to whose family which caused the feud and why the tension was so high between the families. She made a few friends though, The Prince was kind, though she rarely saw him or his wife, the fearsome Lady Ingrid, who she noted wore her bracelets, as if to say she did have a friend in this place, considering she was just as much of a stranger to this place as she was. She really ought to speak to her more. Then she thought of the sweet Brother Beorn. His interest in her was not in the least bit subtle but it was sweet nonetheless. She had enough to deal with, with the king.

Something stirred within her at the thought of him. She felt a twinge of fear and excitement every time she made her way to his chambers. It was incredibly foolish of her to put herself in danger like that but, and she hated to admit it, it was fun. She could understand why he enjoyed her company, because as far as she could tell, she gave him a similar rush. Surely, not the same, since he wasn't in any danger, but she could see without looking how the women and even some men walked around him like he'd order their death for sneezing. He didn't have anyone to defy him in a way that was just enough that it wasn't disrespectful. She didn't show that she was afraid of him and she wasn't about to.

Just before her thoughts began to drift toward their last encounter and his asking for a kiss and odd smell touched her senses. She had been seated on of the stone plant boxes and stood and sniffed. She frowned. "What is that?" She asked no one before a sharp crack echoed out and flames erupted before her eyes. She jumped back as smoke filled the gardens, the smell of burning wood, and flowers invaded her nostrils. Covering her mouth with a hand, she started for an exit. Wood cracked and embers leaped from all directions and it didn't take long before the entire place was in flames and she was trapped within a wall of fire. She rounded back, hoping to find another way out, but only found flames encroaching on her. Choking on smoke, she watched as a tree snapped, the sound echoing in her ears, She leaped back, her back hitting a wall and to her horror, she found herself pinned in the corner. Flames licked at her skin as they grew closer, so hot it felt like needles.

Smoke-induced tears stung her eyes and stole her breath, as she tried to find a way to get around the burning tree.

"What are you doing here?" called a familiar voice. Evangelina blinked a few times to see Brynjar barreling toward her, anger as hot as the flames themselves, and by the gods was she happy to see him so much so that she started toward the burning tree, toward him in a sprint as he hefted a part of the heavy limb, allowing her to duck under, which she did, the momentum of her sprint caused her to almost run right passed him, before she had time to turn around to thank him,

Another crack sounded, she whipped around as another tree cracked and toppled to the ground, pinning Brynjar beneath it. Evangelina wasted no time, she slid to her knees, and tried to pull his legs from where they'd been trapped, and when that didn't work, she decided the tree would be easier to move, so she anchored herself at his side, and used her shoulder and arms to push the tree that had fallen on his chest. She had to ignore his cries of pain, knowing that this was going to hurt but it was either that or he burned to death trying to save her.

Like an echo, the thought bounced around her head. He was trying to save her. He ran into the fire, to save her.

Strength anew, she dug her feet into the ground, the flames on the tree, curling around her shoulder and arm as she pushed, cried out with the effort, and sure enough the tree moved. Her muscles burned, but she didn't let that stop her, as she bent down, hooking her arms under his and pulling him with great effort backward, freeing his legs as well. She dropped to the ground, her body racked with coughs. "I thought... you were supposed... to be rescuing... me," She offered between breaths. "C'mon, up, I won't let you die for me," She said as she turned, trying to help him up, if his legs were as ruined as her arms, they weren't going to make it out of here alive

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Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus Character Portrait: Julius Gadfael
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Everything was burning. Beorn could only watch in horror as the garden he had spent over a decade tending to went down in flames. Steeling himself, he rushed in to the garden, ignoring the danger it presented him. There were only a few herbs he could yank from the ground and pocket, but it was better than nothing. He choked hoarsely on the smoke, but he refused to let himself fall. Instead, he dropped to the ground to avoid the noxious vapors and crawled through it. Then he saw them.

"Evangelina, what are you doing here?" he asked, concern etched itno his features before he spotted Brynjar. His face darkened. This fire was convenient for him. If Lelinus died because of this, his position would be secured. Just like Artos' death meant his succession to the throne.

For a brief moment, dark thoughts entered into his mind. He could knock Evangelina out. He could e leave Brynjar here to die in the fire he started and she and Leo would be safe from him. He quickly squashed those thoughts. They were the thoughts of Demons and tyrants, not an Artemesian. He approached her and moved to help place him on his shoulders as well.

"Come on."

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Julius stared at the piece of parchment in his hands. He admired the penmanship. It was rare to find a knight who could also write and write well. The author made all the right appeals to God and the Church and had significant support among the local clergy and the populace. If it had been a man, he'd be beside himself with welcoming him to court.

But this was a woman. And her use of the sword meant she straddled the line between orthodoxy and heresy. The prevailing opinion among the Faith for many years had been that Artemesia had transcended the normal gender divisions between gender, being God in the flesh, but the opposing view was not outright condemned. His actions now would have ramifications for his position and his ambitions. Still, whether he would condemn or support her, he needed her at court.

To Sir Sarah Morgane, Knight-Commander of the Scarlet Order:

We extend to you our apostolic greetings and our thanks that you now, at this war's conclusion, have of your own free will sought the sanction of the One True Church and are prepared to submit an explanation for your actions. You are hereby welcomed to the Capital where you may speak before Us and His Grace, King Brynjar, King of Byrdain and Protector of the Realm. We heartily look forward to your arrival.

His Excellency,

Julius Gadfael

Patriarch of the Church in Byrdain and Chancellor to the King

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Character Portrait: Sarah Morgane
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The Scarlet Temple, City of Loedenia



A lone figure kneeled before the shrine. The light of a hundred candles danced on her armor as she whispered her prayers. Prayers for the fallen, prayers for the living, prayers for herself...

The sound of creeping door and a flood of sunlight caused the woman to turn.
" Forgive me sister for disturbing your prayers but a letter arrived from the capital...From the Patriarch." Spoke the man that entered.
"Nothing to forgive dear brother" assured the woman as she stood with a smile. She took the letter opening it...

To Sir Sarah Morgane, Knight-Commander of the Scarlet Order:

We extend to you our apostolic greetings and our thanks that you now, at this war's conclusion, have of your own free will sought the sanction of the One True Church and are prepared to submit an explanation for your actions. You are hereby welcomed to the Capital where you may speak before Us and His Grace, King Brynjar, King of Byrdain and Protector of the Realm. We heartily look forward to your arrival.

His Excellency,

Julius Gadfael

Patriarch of the Church in Byrdain and Chancellor to the King


She looked to her brother " He will meet with me....Tell my honor guard to make ready we must leave at once" she said moving toward the door.

"Sarah wait! You can't go before speaking to father and you will not go without me!"
" Marcus we have gone over this with Daniel's death in the war you are all father will have if I parish on this quest."
"No! I can't sit here knowing you are in danger!"
" Enough! My word is final now to gather my guard!"

Marcus knew more words where worthless so the siblings parted...

Sarah blinked at the light as she walked though the city bows and calls of "my lady" came from all around. She nodded and kept on until she came to her father's house. The ragged man smiled as he saw his little girl embracing her. Sarah returned the love.
" I leave for the capital father" Sarah said.
" Your brother said as much be safe my girl.. and worry for yourself and not for me" her father replied

A sound of horses... The honor guard. "We are ready when you are Ma'am"

Sarah mounted her horse " farewell father and tell Marcus.."
" Of course.." her father said with a knowing smile.

Sarah turned riding off her guard behind. All but one guard... one that first nodded unseen by Sarah to the old man...To his father.

Setting

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
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Image Brynjar let out a mangled scream as the flaming tree was branding his skin. The flames licked hungrily at his clothes as they tried to devour him. He cursed loudly as this was not the death he had envisioned for himself. He braced his hands underneath the heavily burning tree as Evangelina was putting her weight behind it. Between the two they managed to lift the tree and cast it off of him. His body was shaking from adrenaline and Evangelina managed to hook underneath his shoulders and pull his legs free.

The heat had seared into his flesh and each breath was a lance of pain as his burnt skin was stretched. He stared up at her as she wheezed and coughed. He allowed her to help him get to his feet, but his knees threatened to buckle. It was now that he realized the fire had eaten into his legs, though the pain and damage wasn't near as great as it was on his chest. The smoke was surrounding them defiling any good left in the air. Brynjar was leaning heavily on Evangelina at this point. The burning was stopping even though the fire had been removed. He could see darkness encroach the corners of his vision. He gritted his teeth. He couldn't pass out now.

A man emerged from the smoke and it was very nearly the last person Brynjar would have wanted to see. Brother Beorn stood before them briefly before moving to Brynjar's other side and helping to hoist his weighty bulk up. Brynjar could do nothing but lean and allow the two lowly servants support him as they dragged him away from the flames. They made it to the edge of the courtyard where the air was fresher. Brynjar grunted for them to stop.

By now the flames were falling under control as the bucket line methodically put the fires out. He glimpsed towards the women battling the dying embers and noticed Elska slamming her own carpet against the red demon. Her shoulders were shaking and her face was covered in soot.

Brynjar could feel his strength failing. His fear of the fire spreading was calmed as the lingering flames were doused. "Get me," he wheezed and coughed and then groaned from the pain. "...chambers..." he managed to mutter out. He wasn't sure how far he could walk before he would collapse from the pain and shock that was pulsing through his body.

Setting

5 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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Ingrid took the rag from Beorn and gently pressed the cold bundle to Leo’s brow, while Beorn busied himself by the shelves. Ingrid had never been one for herbalism, it was far too delicate a process with far too much riding on it. Too little of an ingredient and nothing would happen, too much and a man might die because of your carelessness. On the battlefield, delicacy was not required.

“You should go and gather some more supplies,” she said quietly. “Better now when he is safe rather than later when it might be vital.”

The smell of acrid smoke drifted down the hallways as Ingrid tended to Lelinus. Beorn had gone and she could hear cries carry down the corridor. Her instincts pulled her in both directions. Run and help douse the flames, or stay with Lelinus. There was something in her that feared leaving Lelinus would be worse, not least if Brynjar was wandering around. Who knew what that bastard would do given free reign over his ill brother. No, for Lelinus’s sake, she would stay with him. “It’s alright love,” she murmured gently, wiping his brow, as she idly counted the days in her head again. She paused and began again, counting the days down on her hands. She must have miscounted, perhaps she had added a day onto their journey, or lost track of how long she had been here. Ingrid pushed the conclusion that was forming in her mind down. It was too soon for that surely? She shook her head and waited by Lelinus for Beorn to return.

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Chaos everywhere. Red flames crackled as they grew higher, the smoke swirling, thick and black. The courtyard grew darker as the smoke blocked out whatever sun there had been. Men shouted orders and Tyr realised that he had frozen. He looked around, trying to peer through the flames to see if he could find Ingrid anywhere in the crowd or the courtyard. He saw Brynjar cross the courtyard to a far corner where another figure was obscured by the flame. Seeing no sign of his sister, Tyr grabbed a bucket of water and joined the efforts in getting the fire under control.

He heard a cry as he continued throwing water on the blaze and briefly looked up to see Brynjar and a serving girl being pulled from the flames. She must be the favourite of the month, assuming Brynjar didn’t change his fancy more often than that. The fire was under control now, but the carnage it had left behind was going to take much longer to repair. Where there had once been a garden, there was now little more than ash.

As the crowd thinned, Tyr noticed Elska beating back the flames. He wove through the people who remained until he was by her side. This close, he could see that she was shaking. He put his arm across her shoulders and gently pulled her back. “It’s done Elska, you can stop now. You can stop. Let me look at you,” he said as he turned her to face him. He studied her face as his hands grazed against her arms, his gaze following behind them. He turned her hands over in his and saw the early appearance of burns on her hands. “You need to get these seen to before they blister.”

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Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson Character Portrait: Elska Agir
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Image Elska nearly jumped out of her skin as a strong arm came around her shoulders and pulled her back from the smoldering embers she had been working on. She could feel the sweat dripping down her face and neck. She used the back of her hand to wipe strands of hair that were sticking against her forehead. The soot was smeared across her face and she looked more like a common beggar in that moment than a high born lady of Fjellborg, but it didn't matter. The fire was finally out. The smoke was starting to clear but she still coughed against the wisps that were clinging to her lungs.

Her shoulders were shaking as he spoke. She shivered as he trailed his hands down her arms inspecting them. She hissed as he turned her hands over only now realizing she had been too close to the flames. The red marks on her hands were loud and she could feel her pulse throbbing painfully as the blood was rushing around the injured skin.

"I saw Brother Beorn helping retrieve Brynjar," she shook her head, "The king needs the attention more than I. I do not think they have a healer to spare for me right now." She bit her lip. She could see many of the men had suffered worse burns than she. She turned her attention back to Tyr. She didn't stop to think before she pushed a lock of his sooty hair from his eyes. She felt a bit foolish but couldn't suffuse the giggle that escaped her as her fingers left a trailing mark of black against his warmed skin.

It was now that she became more aware of herself. She looked down and groaned. "Oh I must be a sight." She went to brush her tunic, briefly forgetting her burns, but the motion reignited the pain and she clenched her jaw against a cry. "Ah, it's worse that I thought." She muttered and watched the angry flesh slowly darken in color. Tyr was right, she did need to get it treated. The fact still remained that there wasn't anyone immediately available to tend to her wounds as they were more superficial than the other injuries sustained during the fight against the hot fire.

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3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
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Evangelina struggled to keep Brynjar up, her arms stung, her chest was tight and darkness encroached on her vision. If she could just find an exit. Suddenly, Beorn appeard out of nowhere. "Evangelina, what are you doing here?" He asked and Evangelina would have groaned, if it weren't for the shortness of her breath. Why is that the question both of them asked. It was a garden and she liked flowers, why wouldn't she be here when she had a break? Beron's face darkened as his eyes fell on Brynjar. Even with the tunnel vision, she saw the look. Did he think she was here with him? Some romantic rednveous in the garden and that look was sparked by jealousy?

Evangelina shook those thoughts away. Oxygen must be short, she was thinking crazy. "Just help me." She tried to say but coughed instead. Beron mmoved to them to took Bynjar's other arm over his shoulder and they made ther way toward where Beron had entered. "Get me....my chambers." Brynjar tried to order but Evangelina hissed a shush. "Save your breath." She told him as they made their escape.

Soon ehough they hobbled to his chamber and Evaneglina helped Brynjar into his bed with Beron's asstiance. Once he was down, she backed into the wall and her arms shook from the pain of the burning. She took in greedy gulps of breath as she slid down the wall, her muscles ached so badly she could no longer stand. She closed her eyes against the pan, holding her arms out in fear that merely touching the seering burns would make the pain that much worse and she dare not look.

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4 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
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"You're gentler than you appear," Lelinus murmured. The fever was still there and his body felt warm alnd sluggish, but he could still talk. He smiled when he felt her wipe his brow and he placed a hand on hers, "Don't worry. I am still here."

He glanced out their door, frowning slightly as he heard a dizzying commotion outside Beorn's quarters and then he smelt it. Smoke. He glanced at the shutters keeping the garden from their view, but not the few tendrils of smoke making their way into the room. He looked thoughtful.

"I didn't think my brother was capable of this," he whispered, "To arrange for a fire to be set in the gardens while I was ill... It was either his doing or terrible luck on our part."

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Beorn said nothing as they helped the young king to his bed. He was not particularly gentle, but he did not go out of his way to cause him discomfort either. instead, he examined his injuries with thoughtful expression. They looked much worse than they were. All in all, Brynjar was quite fortunate. With time and some salve he had in his stores, the king would recover without a scar. He nodded in satisfaction.

"I will get you medicine and bandages, Your Grace. After a good night's rest, you should be up and about. I wish I could say the same for Prince Lelinus," he told him before glancing at Evangelina and noticing her discomfort.

"I will treat you as well, Evangelina," he told her. Inside his head, however, his thoughts were racing. How could he treat Leo with his supplies running out?

Setting

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
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Evaneglina, with her eyes still closed to the pain, nodded to Beorn's words. She could make no other motion. The Adrenaline had worn and the pain from the burns intensified as did the strain she'd put on her muscles to lift that tree. She had help, of course, but he could only do some much without leverage. She thought it odd as to why Brother mentioned the prince and seemed to disregard the King's injuries. Did he not see?

Suddenly, Evangelina's eyes sprang open and she looked on the King with new eyes. She saw. He wasn't as bad as everyone claimed he was, what he claimed he was. If he were, he wouldn't have nearly gotten himself killed to save her from a fire.He was angry about it too, which was especially odd. Not only did he care, he cared enough to be angry when she put herself in harm's way.

She attempted to stand up, still holding her hands for fear of touching them to anything but she could only manage a whimper and a cough. Smoke still filled her lungs and she did not take in enough air. Her head and chest ached but she fought it. "Your Grace?" she called wishing she weren't so hurt so she could properly appraise him, all she could manage was a visual once-over from where she was against the wall. Looking at him through blurry eyes, he was covered in dirt, soot, debris and flakes of burned skin. he'd survive, like Boren said but he would n't be very active. She had a feeling her job may have gotten a lot harder, but perhaps a bit more pleasant. It was an act, a mask, she realized, this monster he wore, but so rather do mask cover the eyes. His eyes were dark, and what she thought she saw once, bitterness, self- righteousness, was actually just guarded. There was much more to him than what he let on and there was truth to his father's words. He was hiding, and it was her promise to bring it forth. Perhaps, she'd seen a glimpse of the man behind the mask. "You saved... me..." She breathed, her voice hoarse and she had to suck in a few breathes to continue to speak. "Why?" She managed but before she could hear his answer, she was overcome with a fit of coughing, and gasping before exhaustion, and pain overwhelmed her and the world went dark.

Setting

3 Characters Present

Character Portrait: Evangelina Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
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  1. possible duplicate content

    by TheCrimsonLady

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Evaneglina, with her eyes still closed to the pain, nodded to Beorn's words. She could make no other motion. The Adrenaline had worn and the pain from the burns intensified as did the strain she'd put on her muscles to lift that tree. She had help, of course, but he could only do some much without leverage. She thought it odd as to why Brother mentioned the prince and seemed to disregard the King's injuries. Did he not see?

Suddenly, Evangelina's eyes sprang open and she looked on the King with new eyes. She saw. He wasn't as bad as everyone claimed he was, what he claimed he was. If he were, he wouldn't have nearly gotten himself killed to save her from a fire.He was angry about it too, which was especially odd. Not only did he care, he cared enough to be angry when she put herself in harm's way.

She attempted to stand up, still holding her hands for fear of touching them to anything but she could only manage a whimper and a cough. Smoke still filled her lungs and she did not take in enough air. Her head and chest ached but she fought it. "Your Grace?" she called wishing she weren't so hurt so she could properly appraise him, all she could manage was a visual once-over from where she was against the wall. Looking at him through blurry eyes, he was covered in dirt, soot, debris and flakes of burned skin. he'd survive, like Boren said but he would n't be very active. She had a feeling her job may have gotten a lot harder, but perhaps a bit more pleasant. It was an act, a mask, she realized, this monster he wore, but so rather do mask cover the eyes. His eyes were dark, and what she thought she saw once, bitterness, self- righteousness, was actually just guarded. There was much more to him than what he let on and there was truth to his father's words. He was hiding, and it was her promise to bring it forth. Perhaps, she'd seen a glimpse of the man behind the mask. "You saved... me..." She breathed, her voice hoarse and she had to suck in a few breathes to continue to speak. "Why?" She managed but before she could hear his answer, she was overcome with a fit of coughing, and gasping before exhaustion, and pain overwhelmed her and the world went dark.

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View All » Add Character » 13 Characters to follow in this universe

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus
Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter
Character Portrait: Katinka Dragomir
Character Portrait: Evangelina
Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
Character Portrait: Julius Gadfael
Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen
Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson
Character Portrait: Elska Agir
Character Portrait: Sarah Morgane
Character Portrait: Tamiera du Gent
Character Portrait: Marcus Morgane
Character Portrait: Jordane Marco

Newest

Character Portrait: Marcus Morgane
Marcus Morgane

I will protect my Sister

Character Portrait: Tamiera du Gent
Tamiera du Gent

"It doesn't take much to tangle a man in my web."

Character Portrait: Sarah Morgane
Sarah Morgane

"I fight for my people and my faith"

Character Portrait: Elska Agir
Elska Agir

"Much can be said without ever needing the use of words."

Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson
Tyr Jorvikson

Blood makes you related, loyalty make you a family

Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen
Beorn Clovermaen

"Plants are God's mercy to mankind."

Character Portrait: Julius Gadfael
Julius Gadfael

"As you say, Your Grace."

Character Portrait: Brynjar Augustus
Brynjar Augustus

"I will not yield. I am the king!"

Character Portrait: Evangelina
Evangelina

"...."

Trending

Character Portrait: Evangelina
Evangelina

"...."

Character Portrait: Elska Agir
Elska Agir

"Much can be said without ever needing the use of words."

Character Portrait: Katinka Dragomir
Katinka Dragomir

So what if I'm a girl?

Character Portrait: Julius Gadfael
Julius Gadfael

"As you say, Your Grace."

Character Portrait: Tamiera du Gent
Tamiera du Gent

"It doesn't take much to tangle a man in my web."

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus
Lelinus Augustus

"I am not questioning your honor, Ser, I am denying it completely."

Character Portrait: Marcus Morgane
Marcus Morgane

I will protect my Sister

Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen
Beorn Clovermaen

"Plants are God's mercy to mankind."

Character Portrait: Sarah Morgane
Sarah Morgane

"I fight for my people and my faith"

Most Followed

Character Portrait: Julius Gadfael
Julius Gadfael

"As you say, Your Grace."

Character Portrait: Evangelina
Evangelina

"...."

Character Portrait: Lelinus Augustus
Lelinus Augustus

"I am not questioning your honor, Ser, I am denying it completely."

Character Portrait: Tyr Jorvikson
Tyr Jorvikson

Blood makes you related, loyalty make you a family

Character Portrait: Katinka Dragomir
Katinka Dragomir

So what if I'm a girl?

Character Portrait: Beorn Clovermaen
Beorn Clovermaen

"Plants are God's mercy to mankind."

Character Portrait: Ingrid Jorvikdatter
Ingrid Jorvikdatter

I am no mere warrior, I am a weapon

Character Portrait: Marcus Morgane
Marcus Morgane

I will protect my Sister

Character Portrait: Elska Agir
Elska Agir

"Much can be said without ever needing the use of words."


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