God Is On His Knees (IC/Still Accepting)

[Ko T'suno]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Greetings Sirs, have you an invitation?" The gate guard asked the nine riders who had chosen to take the forest path arriving at a different gate then any of the expected guests. Their presence coming out of the forest was nothing less than..alarming. Their attire as black as night save for the silver that was embroidered into their cloaks. The way they slowly approached the gate saying nothing tell the guard had spoken.[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]The man at the head of the party bowed his hooded head and reached down into his cloak to reveal a small letter with the seal of the royal family of Vanqland and handed it to the guard. Inside lay the royal invitation to the Duke of Gethenwood. The guard read it over, looked up to the company of riders and then back down at the letter. His gaze back up to the men was slow and under close eye you could see him shudder for a brief moment…."OPEN THE GATE!" He proclaimed to the men on the other side of the palace gate. "Pardon the delay your Grace." He humbly apologized as the gate opened..Bowing his head to the company he moved aside his eyes looking up to the nine as they rode past. There was one that was obviously shorter than the rest of the party but he shook it off to being nothing more than nerves.Their black steads racing towards the stables of the palace. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"Sir.." The head of the company began in a low hush. "I know, we are late…" The smallest of the nine returned as they all dismounted their steads in fluid motion. "Shall I send word to the King?" Another of the horsemen asked his voice seeming to warm the spirit as he spoke. "No, I wish to surprise him…" The small rider replied as he moved his horse into one of the stables. The horse gave a small protest as it was guided into the stable. "I know I know…...I hate the idea of putting you into a cage too..but it would be Uncivilized to let my horse run rampant.." He said softly to the horse his emphasis on the word uncivilized made clear his discomfort with being here. It had nothing to do with the Royal family and the reason he was here. It was the dealing with the other nobility so many of them had been under the thumb of the church for so long that they had forgotten that they enjoyed being leashed by the Vatican.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]"My Lord." The soft voice and the hand on his shoulder woke him from his internal rant about the vileness that was the church. "Yes Sypher?" He returned his voice soft and slightly distant. "We are ready for our approach into the castle. should we wait to give you time to change into something that isn't armor, My Lord?" The guard responded his voice giving away his concern about the attire of the smaller rider to whom he called Lord. "No need, let these veshalin see our Lord in his armor. Hopefully it will remind them of who we are..as well as what we.." One started. "Shss we must not speak of such things here." The small Rider interrupted as he pushed the two riders out of the stable and hurriedly began to remove his armor. "MY LORD!! What if someone sees you." The one called Sypher protested. "Oh hush Sy, T'is that not the reason I have you eight here." The small one retorted as he stood up only half dressed. A bright smile upon his naturally elegant face as he looked at the Rider with a quick wink. "O..of course my Lord...please hurry.." Sypher replied with a soft stutter as he looked back to his Duke. "Be careful Sy less your eyes linger too long." Their Lord replied as he continued to undress. "Of course Sir..." Sypher replied as he turned around and faced towards the entrance of the stable with the rest of the Riders. The others were quick to silence their chuckles as Sypher joined their rank. "Get a good view there lad?" The one who had been at the helm of the group asked with a hearty chuckle as he slapped his hand upon Sypher's shoulder.[/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Within ten minutes the group had departed from the stables and where on their way to the Palace of King Fairway. It had been a whole year since they had been in the lands of Vanqland, The Lord had spent many a summer in the lands of Vanqland since their two lands became allies. The memories of the lessons about the royals that surrounded their lands and how to interact with them. Lead a pleasant smile upon Tristan's face his soft features seemed to brighten the closer they got to the palace. Tell by the time they reached the grand doors of the main hall. The Duke had been eagerly racing down the palace hall. Paying no mind to anyone who may be watching, only stopping when the sounds of the jubilant party were easy to hear through the large wooden doors at the end of the hall. He stood and collected his thoughts as the rest of his party reached him. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]Unknown to the small Lord his smile had raised the spirits of those he traveled with. It had been a while since they had seen their Lord in such high spirits, Though through it all they all had the same worry...This was church land and all though none would dare attack the Duke here, the possibilities of potential hostilities to break out still lingered in their minds. The oppressing feeling of being watched slammed into the group as they walked into the hall. "AVUNCULUS!!!!!!" Tristan yelled when he saw the King waiting no time he moved to go speak to King Maximus a look of glee easily apparent upon his face. His movements were not as gracefull as the Duke had hoped but unless you knew the man who was rushing towards the King you might of thought he was a savage from the wild. The sharp eyes of members of the group locked on the sudden commotion. It was obvious the lad didn't care about the potential repercussions of his sudden actions and that sent a wave of fear and alarm through the eight men who still wore their cloaks over their faces. Their hands upon the hilt of their swords. Just in case someone thought to rush towards the Duke with harmful intent. Their journey here had left many of his guards on edge, and the nature of their Lord only added to their worries. [/BCOLOR]

[BCOLOR=transparent]@GoodEveningClarice Was going to attempt to have him sneak up on the King and surprise him with a big ol' hug....but thought naaaaa that could go really bad...[/BCOLOR]
[BCOLOR=transparent]

Spoiler

AVUNCULUS MEANS UNCLE WHOOOO!!!! ^-^ VOCAB WORD OF THE DAY

[/BCOLOR]

 

[GoodEveningClarice]

Evelyn hated being late. And yet here she was, still up in her chambers, late for her own party. Her hair he being maneuvered into an elegant updo, showing her long throat and the heavy jewels that adorned her ears. Her gown was a rich, deep red to offset her dark hair and eyes and she thought her pale skin looked especially radiant. The maid stepped away and bowed her head to indicate she'd finished and it was all Evelyn could do not to leap from the chair and run down the stairs. What a fool they would think of her, running about like an animal! She stood up carefully and examined herself in a heavy full length mirror. Her mother's jewels served her well where they rested against her collar bone. "I hope to draw the eyes of the men who matter." She told her servant who nodded silently. Evelyn knew the woman probably didn't care, but she went on anyway as she headed for the door. "Hopefully a man of the North though I will not be too picky. I feel we need stronger ties with the Northerners, but they are so loath to leave their mountains." The servant, a girl of northern descent said nothing as Evelyn disappeared around the corner. Likely because she had no ability to speak, Maximus liked his secrets kept.

The eldest princess smoothed out her gown then headed down the stairs towards the main hall. She hoped no one thought her a twit or a silly girl caught up in ball gowns. She wanted to be seen as what she was, a mature, responsible woman worthy of the throne. She reached the bottom of the stairs just as her father finished her speech and had a moment to flash a bright smile to the Kingsguard gathered around her father before Tristan came tearing across the room like a madmen. Evelyn pursed her lips, the boy always reminded her too much of Lilith.

While that went on, she descended on her sister. "Lilith why are you on the floor?" She whispered in a harsh tone while still keeping a smile on her face, a talent she'd learned from their grandmother. She turned her dark eyes on the serving boy, who quickly read what the princess desired. He bowed and scurried away. "Get up, Lilith. No one of worth will want to marry you if you're on the floor like a wild woman." She looked around, noting several vaguely familiar faces. Aleifr was always near where her father was with Robert, Arren, and Rikhen close at hand. The Duke of Pinefell was in attendance with his captain, a rare sight indeed. He'd been widowed some years ago if she remembered correctly. Otherwise, there were really no noble men of note. She tried not to be too disappointed but tears were welling in her eyes. She only wanted a good match, and these men of the nation had not…

She blinked hard and folded her hands daintily, maintaining a pretty smile. It mattered not, she supposed, something would come along. "Stand here with me, they'll come to us." She told her sister, taking up a place near the throne and within sight of the Kingsguard, not wanting to cause them any trouble.

​

 

[GoodEveningClarice]

Illia was occupied in the King's chambers for some amount of time, ensuring the servants had a clean, warm basin ready for him to rinse off with when he changed and a set of clothes worthy of this event. She also took a moment to sit in of the arm chairs in the room and relax. As a courtesan, her only real job was to please the men of court. But Maximus had never made it that easy for her. He saw how clever she was and put her to use as his eyes and ears among the court room. His kingsguard were sharp stalk, but it just wasn't possible for an armored man to learn some of the things a young, sexually available woman could. She lay her head back on the chair for a long minute or two then got up and adjusted her dark gown that showed far more skin than either of the princesses' but was a fine garment none the less. Maximus had taken to her like a daughter, but one far less delicate. And she was, as a courtesan and as a half vampire she was hardly a flower.

But her time of relaxation was done so she made her way back to the court room. The King was cared for and both the princesses were together looking desirable and lovely, so she was free to move about the court like a shadow. She noted that Elizabeth, Duchess of Clayburn had slipped in at some point. She made her way over to the young woman and curtsied briefly. "My lady." She offered a smile and looked over the room. It was likely Evelyn hadn't noticed the woman in her focus on Lilith, so Illia would do the job for her. Elizabeth was the key to the North tonight, and if Evelyn wanted a Northern husband, this young lady had two unmarried brothers to offer. "Your gown is lovely." She smiled and looked around the room. "Are you unescorted?" She admired her if she was, such a journey was no easy thing for a single woman.

​

 

[Lady Myst]

Serah smiled at her brother's question, her eyes showing a secret within them. "Aye. No servant would," she confirmed.
The door opened a few moments later and the servant girl came in, carrying a plate of meat and bread and a skin of wine. She set them down within Bjarke's reach and bowed before turning to leave.
"Johana," Serah called. "Please remain. Send away anyone near the door then close it."
The girl did as she was told, then came and kneeled at her lady's feet. Serah patted the girl, little more then a child, on the head.
"Pretty girl, isn't she? Only fourteen years. She is sweet and dutiful, but rather clumsy at times. Joral was always so hard on her. One night, a few weeks before his death, he nearly broke her arm for spilling his mead. When I interfered, told him not to punish my maid without my consent, he struck me."
Serah turned her gaze to the fire. "He apologized of course, swore it wouldn't happen again. And it didn't," she paused a moment looking her brother in the eye. "If anyone outside of this room heard this, I would be dead within an hour. I am surprised I am still alive now. The men out there, all of them, are loyal to Joral still even as his corpse rots in the ground," she looked at Johana and nodded towards a chest in the corner. The girl immediately went to it and took out a dagger, bringing it to her. Serah held it in her hand, staring at the blade. "I can still see his blood on it. As if no matter how much I clean it it will always be there. The night before his death, I came into our bedroom to find him beating Johana. Her crime? Refusing to enter his bed, to dishonor her mistress and betray my trust. She is only fourteen Bjarke. A child. He tried to rape a child."
She placed the dagger on the table. "When I stopped him, told him to never touch her again, informed him that I was leaving within the fortnight, he flew into a rage. He raised his hand against me... and my dagger found his chest, pierced his lung," she smiled. "No second chances. Right big brother?"
"It was only myself and Johana in the room," she said, "Johana got one of the newer members of the guard to help move his body to the training field, where it was discovered in the morning along with a broken lance. The guard stayed long enough to testify that it was a training accident, then left. My husband's death is known officially as an accident, but I can tell by the looks they all give me that they suspect differently."
She smiled at Bjarke and reached over to pat his arm. "Welcome to Nacht's Reach my dear brother. What say you about this mess I have made for myself?"

 

[Jerelin]

Elric Massur: Duke of Pinecliff

---

---

Elric had returned to the ballroom just in time for the long-awaited arrival of the King. His dark eyes roamed the crowd as he couldn't bring himself to look upon Maximus just yet. His small experience at the hallway portrait still shook him. Although Elric claimed Catholic, he still believed in many of the old Northern superstitions and his wandering thoughts told him that something evil had taken hold of the castle. It was silly, of course, but one simply couldn't erase generations of tossing salt over the shoulder.

Out of the corner of his eye, at the stairwell, the figure of a young woman graced his peripheral. He turned to look at her and they had locked eyes for only a second before she continued her own survey of the guests. 'So, the eldest has finally made her appearance,' Elric thought with a small smile. The Duke of Pinecliff would not have blamed the princess if she had stayed in her room throughout the event. He would have, if he were her. But her father would have disapproved, that was certain. His sight followed her as she called on her younger sister and stood near the throne.

"She's a beauty, isn't she?" came a gruff but familiar voice behind him. Elric tossed the gentleman a smile.

"That she is, Tekkan," he responded as he caught the eldest princess's eye and nodded in greeting.

"Perhaps you should ask her to dance. At least give the old fools back home something to talk about. Let them have some hope that their Lord Duke will soon find love," the Pinecliff Knight Commander advised.

The man had a point, as he always did. Elric grunted in response and cut his way through the crowd to the princesses. Once close enough so it wasn't disrespectful, Elric bowed at the waist, folding his left arm in front of his stomach and his right as his back. "Your Highness," he spoke, as he unfolded himself. The Duke then turned his attention to the King, "Your Grace, might I ask Princess Evelyn to dance? That is, if she'll have me." He waited for the King's and Princess's reply, having asked them both with one simple question. A part of him hoped it would be denied. He hadn't danced in years and he had no desire to. His face did not betray his emotions, however, and he smiled in expectancy. [/hr]

 

[Hell Hound Woof]

Bjarke listened intently to his sisters tale, all the while tearing bread and chewing meat. Every now and then taking a swig of wine. He contained his rage inside him but hearing of the brutalities almost committed twice against his sister made him grow angrier than all hell. He angrily chewed the meat in his mouth and swallowed it finishing his meal, he took another drink from the skin of wine and set it on the table. He grimaced looking at the girl, he leaned forward in his chair and changed his grimace to a warm smile.

"Little one, you were very lucky that my sister was here. She was always raised to look out for the weak, that and never to let some little shit of a lord strike her." He looked up at his sister with pride, she had done exactly what he would have done. He looked to the little girl and patted her on the head with his right hand. He looked to his sister and leaned back in his seat.

"You did well my sister, my only regret is that I was not here to drive a sword through him myself," He said laughing heartily, "If any of the men here dare to harm either of you inform me, it is likely they will wait till me and the Pack are gone. But if they try anything while we are here there will be a massacre in these halls."

Bjarke remembered his men were probably raiding her castle as they spoke, eating in the grand hall and spilling wine across the tables and floors. Probably some fighting and drinking side by side. He stood from his seat and grabbed his sword fastening it to his back over his cloak the straps around his chest. He smiled at his sister and waved the little girl away, she walked to the door and moved off.

"Sister, I do believe we must go to and greet the rest of your extended family!" He said standing in front of her and holding his hands out to pull her up, "I do believe that Maryn has gotten taller since last you saw him, and much better with a bow as well. He's now the finest archer in our battalion. That and the other lords should be arriving soon, I expect you'll want to prepare for their arrival?"

 

[Hermit]

Lilith Monroe Fairway- You won't know what you've lost until you've remembered how much it meant to you.

Lilith was so unconcerned over everyone else but the small little boy whom she had been playing with. Zane ran off to who knows where, most likely his short attention span getting the best of him. Heels clatterened close, followed by a very familiar and yet very stern voice. She sighed softly before her gaze turned towards Evelyn, a small smile plastered on her face. "Oh, good evening dear sister. I'm on the floor because I'm playing hide and seek with Zane~" She stated cheerfully before standing up, softy brushing off the dust from her dress. Thank god her dress wasn't 'ruined' or else she'd never hear the end of it from her most 'dearest' father and sister. Once Evelyn spoke again, her words infuriated her. What if she didn't want to get married?- Okay, maybe she did. But she wasn't one to find the supposed 'perfect' guy, she wanted them to find her. Hell it wouldn't just be tonight, that was just something that was a plan for life. "I don't need to get married, Evelyn. You're the one whom shall be getting the crown, the military. Almost everything." She sighed softly, her voice small so no one could hear her as she leaned in and whispered to Evelyn. But, with sheer willpower, she complied and followed her sister towards the throne in which was now being occupied by her father and other noble men within the kingdom(s).

An older male, whom.. She assumed was the Duke of Pinecliff, of course the name wasn't registered within her mind which made it a bit hard. The male strode towards Evelyn, bowing, and turning his gaze towards Maximus. The man, whose name she couldn't remember to save her life, asked her father to take Evelyn to dance.

A small sense of recognition finally triggered within her! Ah, yes.. His name was Elric, Age thirty-six and had been widowed for only a few years now. Seems he's taken interest in Eve, quite splendid. She thought to herself calmly, a smirk formed onto her lips. That would most likely get her sister off her tail for a while, a man is exactly what Evelyn needed. Of course, Lilith loved her sister.. But their relationship was like a.. Love-Hate type of deal. Everyone in their family was like that, Lilith was almost like the oddball of their small family. It never had come to mind, just how different she was exactly. It didn't bother her, of course, but it was just a bit surprising.

Her mind went back to what she had said before to Evelyn, it was honestly quite true. She didn't need to get married right away, it was her sister whom needed to be ready for the throne. Lilith would only be getting a small part, of such a big 'Trial'. She'd of course, take good care of the things she'll be passed down. But the crown didn't matter to her, the Trial of life wasn't at her doorstep quite yet. Marriage and children was something for later on in life, she was but only just a child. Lilith wasn't mature, she wasn't elegant like her sister. No, it wasn't jealousy, she loved the way she was. But if taking on such a responsibility as she was now, would be quite the disaster for the kingdom and her family name.

"Ah, hello Sir Elric, it's nice to finally meet you." She curtsied and smiled before looking between Evelyn and Elric. They would make quite the cute couple, and it seemed like Sir Elric was a good man. Hopefully her sister would see that.

 

[Duchess]

Elizabeth brought another glass of wine to her lips as she saw Illia approach her. The young woman smiled in greeting as the other woman curtsied. She had never been one for formalities, so she quickly corrected the woman, "Elizabeth is just fine. You make me sound like my mother or my grandmother, which is worse. You live in the castle just as I am at the moment, I see us as equals. Well as much of equals as possible." Setting the glass of wine back onto a passing servant's tray, she hoped it would be served to Evelyn, the eldest princess. Elizabeth had never favored her much and it was clearly shown in her facial expression when the princess decided to make her appearance. What foolish princess would be late? That would be the equivalent of Elizabeth being late to, well Elizabeth couldn't think of anything in that moment, so she dismissed the thought all together. Leaning her hip against the table they were currently standing next too, she quickly began scanning the room and let out a relief when she noticed the Duke of Pinecliff. It was always reassuring to see another northerner at these events. She had began fear she would be the representation tonight, well she wouldn't have to be if the blasted idiots she called brothers could just simply show up. They were the eligible ones to marry the princesses.

It took a moment for Elizabeth to realize that Illia had spoken once again and she stared at the girl for a moment, trying to register what she had said before it finally clicked. Smiling once again, she nodded, "Yes, thank you. It was a gift from Francis' fiancee. Apparently she heard what I said about John's wife and wanted to be on my good side. She may be from an influential family, but I don't think Francis deserves that type of marriage." Rolling her eyes as she plopped a grape into her mouth, she continued on, addressing Illia's question, "I decided to come on my own. I also really didn't have time to find someone to escort me. My brothers are Gods know where and well, men are idiots. I learned that from personal experience."

Turning her attention to Lilith, she decided in that moment she liked her better than Evelyn. It seemed to Elizabeth that Lilith was the more care-free and well, nicer of the two. She was happy to see the princess smiling and she was hoping that Elric would run from the older princess before he was trapped. Elizabeth knew Elric not to be a dancer and he was still mourning the loss of his wife. The Duchess had always enjoyed the company of Elric's wife, even before they were married. They seemed a good match and it was very upsetting when she died.

Looking back at Illia, she stated, "Elric better run while he has the chance."

 

[Duchess]

"Stupid bastard." John muttered the word under his breath as he watched one of the teenage boys traveling with them try to chase after a raccoon. What he was trying to do he couldn't decide, but he decided to ignore it. Glancing behind him at the horse and its rider, he noticed as his son was drifting off from the long journey. John chuckled as he motioned for one of the knights in his company to lift his son from his horse and place him onto theirs so he could nap. Looking down at his daughter who was sitting on his horse with him, he let out another chuckle at her wide eyes. Raising an eyebrow, he asked, "What is it?"

"You said a bad word, daddy." Amelia's eyes were wide as she continued to stare up at her father, trying to understand why he said a forbidden word. Small tears welled up in her eyes as she added, "You called him a bad word." Pointing to the young boy who was still after the animal, John followed his daughter's finger and let out a small sigh. He rolled his eyes at his daughter and quietly said, "It's not bad if it's the truth." Which in that teenage boys case, it was exactly the case. John knew who his father was and could say that the boy was John's second cousin and his daughter's third, but that couldn't be said out loud. How would the Clayburn's look? Especially with all these bastard children running around. They probably had twice as many than any king, but that wasn't to be expressed out loud. Didn't his sister just add the newest addition or was it Charlie whoring around Paris? He couldn't decide so he smiled, pinching his daughter's cheek, "Well I'm sorry for calling him a bad word. Is that better?"

"Yes." The young girl leaned up, kissing her father's cheek before turning to look back at the road ahead. When Nacht's Reach came into view, she gasped and asked, "Is that where we're going? It's so big."

John didn't reply, instead he shook his head at his daughter as the neared the stables. Once they were all off their horses and headed towards the main part of the castle, he asked, "Ivan, will you take Charles up to his room in our wing of the keep? He seems tired from his journey. Make sure there is a guard with him at all times. With the death of Sir Joral, there's no telling what his soldiers are capable of in a time like this." Two of his men nodded while the rest followed both him and Amelia towards the main room and where the most noise was.

When Amelia saw Lady Clad, she raced towards the woman and hugged her leg, "Auntie Serah!" John looked at Bjarke and nodded as a form of greeting, not sure what to say to the man.

 

[Hell Hound Woof]

Bjarke looked towards the man who now stood not far from him. John Clayburn, cousin to House Clad. Like all Clayburns he was called cousin by those who were his age. Bjarke and he had met before, not as foes but certainly not as friends. The pair had dueled in the Sharpened Swords during the time of the Summer Tourney, the pair had been evenly matched but John was much quicker than Bjarke. Though Bjarke managed to give a few scars it was John that managed to defeat Bjarke. Bjarke left with a fairly sized scar across his left arm and slightly crossing his chest. Bjarke held no grudge against the man, he had skill with a sword and thus was worthy of Bjarke's respect.

"John Clayburn, it has been some time since last we met." Bjarke said walking towards the man and extending his large right hand, "I'm glad they sent you for the Northern Council. We need warriors and scholars alike, men like you fill both spots."

Bjarke held a smirk on his face. The man in front of him stood slightly taller than he did himself. Bjarke looked to the child that was now dancing around his sister, he smiled at her impish joy.

"So how have you fared cousin? And your brother Francis, I heard rumor he was tramping around France fucking every which way he can. But the rumors of low born soldiers are often embellished."

 

[Lady Myst]

Serah smiled at her brother's approval of her actions. "I have no doubt he would have suffered much more if you had been here," she agreed. She also agreed with his comment that they needed to go and greet her guests and meet the men who were like family to her brother. It would be nive to have family around, people that she knew she could trust. Serah smiled to hide the trouble in her eyes. She worried, yes she worried greatly. Not about anyone finding out about her husband's death, which she supposed she should have been worried about.
No, her worries were for when news reached the king. At his death her husband's lands and holdings passed to her. Such valuable holdings could not be left without a lord over them, at least she was sure that was what the king would think. Which meant that he would choose someone to marry her, likely someone from the south from his court that had never been north in his life, some rich old fat soft lord. It made her shiver to think of it.
But she kept her worries to herself for now. It was not the time for such things. She had been raised to be a Lady, which meant seeing to the wellbeing and comfort of her guests.


The great hall was abuzz with voices. More guests had arrived then just her brother's men it seemed. As they reached the hall Serah braced herself as a child grabbed her legs. She smiled and wrapped her arms around the child. "Dear Amelia. You have grown since I saw you last," she said as she leaned down to kiss her forehead. "And you grow prettier as the sunrise with each day that passes."

Serah looked up sharply at her brother for his language. "Bjarke," she said, a warning in her tone that he would know well from them growing up. "Perhaps such talk is best saved for when little ears are not around to hear it."
Translation : watch your fucking mouth.

 

[Duchess]

John extended his hand as well, clasping Bjarke's tightly. A small smile was on his lips as he nodded, "It has been awhile, cousin. I hope all has fared well." John sincerely meant the words and it wasn't out of spite as it normally would have been. The man couldn't say that him and Bjarke always got along. He could think many a time they had gotten into tussles when they were kids, but John also had to remember who helped when his wife had first left him. He had been too scared to tell his family, so he went to his cousins for help on the matter. He could also remember his sister's face when she found out. Looking towards Serah, he said, "I offer my condolences if they mean anything. I was never a fan of Joral and wished you would have married someone else. Far too pretty for the man, if I'm allowed to say." John glanced at Bjarke, waiting for the man to say something about his compliment, but a question came before and John quickly answered.

"That would be our cousin Charlie who has been tramping around France. Last I heard, Francis was marrying into the Duchy in the Holy Roman Empire. I met his fiancee once and might I say, she is a beauty but nothing is going on in that head of hers but manipulation. If I were him, well I'd run, actually our dear sister Elizabeth told the woman she was crazy. Then again, Elizabeth needs something to keep that mouth of hers shut." John folded his arms across his chest as he finished his long response.

The nine year old's cheeks turned a bright pink when Serah gave her the small compliment and she quickly looked at the ground, replying, "Thank you, but I'll never be as beautiful as you." Amelia tucked a strand of her long brown hair behind her ear as she tucked her right foot behind her left in bashfulness. Her copper eyes stayed glued on the ground as she waited for Serah to speak again, ignoring Serah's scolding of her brother.

 

[Ko T'suno]

The roar of the hall and the music that played softly under it, was all he heard as he spun around a wide smile on his face. His silver eyes darting around under his mask as he ducked down as though looking for something on the ground. Looking from side to side.. "Tuli….Kali…" He whispered softly as he darted along the wall of the hall. "Come on you two….I need that..back.." He pleaded as he looked around for his query. The only reply that came was the soft chirp like barks from a small white and black fox that sat on the table to his side looking at him with its head tilted to the side as animals do. Looking ever so pleased with himself. "Kali, Missa on Tuli." He asked as he reached his hand out towards the small fox who responded by standing and darting off. Tilki being well….Tilki which meant he would react with as much instinct as he would with his wit….as well as not thinking at all. A fact made all the more apparent as he stumbled upon the table as he tried to grab and then run after the small fox. Resulting in the displacement of not only the table, Tilki had managed to knock over a few of the cups of the people on the table. Causing both some rebuttal as well as a few hearty laughs from the members of the Pack who nine out of ten knew what Tilki was after and most were not surprised by his actions. It was a source of amusement as the foxes continued to keep the boy on his toys as he chased after them..

Refusing to let the Fox slip his grasp he quickly called out his apologies in a lighthearted tone as he ran off bounding after the fox who had him running in a small loop before it bounded up through the middle of the hall and stopped suddenly looking back with a tricky smirk...Tilki knowing Kali was ever the one to get him into trouble was more than off put by the sudden stop by realised he himself could not stop and his attempt to stop resulted in him currently diving towards Kali. Who lazily jumped out of the way as Tilki somersaulted over himself unknowingly in front of Bjarke and Lady Serah tell he landed and looked around to see if anyone had seen him and only to look up and see the group..his silver eyes giving away the embarrassment that would be ever so apparent upon his red cheeks….His hair and mask would give him away almost immediately….."Unless.." He thought quickly to himself as he rolled over and tried to escape by crawling off under a table only to hear the sharp barking of Kali as he sat in front of Bjarke as he looked at Tilki with a look of victory.

Kali's expression

@HellHoundWoof, @Lady Myst, @Duchess of Adraelith

 

[Duchess]

Francis felt like he had been riding on the blasted horse for years by the time he made it to Royal Court. How long had it been in reality? Only a month or so and he was proud of himself for making good timing from his former fiancee's summer home in the southern corner of The Holy Roman Empire. He figured by now his family had heard of him leaving the wicked bitch named Jude. She sounded like a nun, no? Well for Francis, he knew this supposed nun like woman was probably the biggest witch in all of Europe, perhaps even the universe. He couldn't have gotten away from her faster and why hadn't he listened to Elizabeth? She always seemed to be the voice of reason.

Riding into the stables, one of the stable boys quickly took the reigns of his horse and gave a quick bow, saying, "My lord."

Francis rolled his eyes, saying, "Yeah, yeah. I'm third in line to be Duke, damn formalities. Just put my horse next to my sister's." Looking around the stables, he pointed to a pure white horse, "That's hers. I'm sure the horses would like to visit with one another." Without a reply from the boy, Francis quickly made his way into the castle, ignoring the guards as he continued on to the party. It made him furious that none of his family bothered to inform him of his nephew. He just had to accidentally intercept one of his father's letters at his short stay at their estate in the mountains. Had none of them considered what he had to say? Of course not. He may have been his mother's and sister's favorite, but not his father's or brother's.

As his sister had been doing most of the night, he grabbed several glasses of wine, downing them all, on his pursuit to find his sister. Was he the last one to know? Did all of court know? Had she been married? Francis couldn't answer any of these question and to be frank, it only fueled the fire more. He may have not raised Elizabeth like Bellamy had, but he sure as hell was going to protect her from the pompous nobles at court. What could they possibly be saying about her? As he downed his fifth glass of wine, he set it on a servants tray, his eyes locking on his sister. Elizabeth seemed to be engaged in a conversation with someone, so he didn't approach her at that moment. Instead he opted on scanning the room for other family members or familiar faces. When he found none, he looked over to where Sir Elric was chatting it up with Princess Evelyn. Francis rolled his eyes in disgust, but figured it would be good for the royal family to know that another northern representative had arrived.

Going over to the Evelyn, he completely disregarded Elric and asked, "Did you know my sister had a child?" His voice was smooth and nonchalant as he spoke. He just needed one simple answer before he went to destroy Elizabeth's night. After all, how would it look to be the only one who didn't know that your baby sister had a child?

 

[GoodEveningClarice]

Maximus was relieved by the silence that followed his speech. He took a third glass of wine from a passing servant who made some move to tell him he'd fetch a fresh one, but Maximus waved the man off. The wine glass wasn't quite full so it certainly wasn't poisoned. He finished it off just in time to notice Evelyn make her arrival. Good. He gave her a small smile. She took after her mother while Lilith took more after him, with hair not quite so dark and bits of amber in their eyes. Evelyn could have been snow white with such black eyes and hair. He gave his knights a smile. "You all need not stand here so stiffly, enjoy the party." He was considering slipping off to change when a shout reached his ears. He instinctively gripped his sword handle, but released it as soon as he identified young Tristan bounding towards him. He offered the boy a smile and gripped his forearm in greeting.

Tristan, like all the folk of The Dread Woods, was a bit odd. A bit waifish and free spirited. It was no wonder they were all rumored to be fae-blooded, this boy especially. He kissed his cheek and beamed at him. "You grow prettier every Summer." He waved his hand to calm any of his men who may have been put off by the boy. "I didn't know you'd be in attendance." He kept an easy smile. He hadn't invited the boy here to marry one of his daughters to, though it wouldn't be a bad strategic match, but for his own…interests. He was a pretty young thing, and any who knew of his bed mates knew handsome young men were just as welcomed as men his own age, women his own age, younger women and any in-between…but of course most of the court knew that. He was about to engage in conversation with the young woodsman when none other than the Duke of Pinefell appeared.

Maximus flicked his eyes over the man, always finding him somewhat intimidating. But he kept his smirk none the less. "A dance with my Evey?" He looked to Evelyn, who was smiling pleasantly while glaring daggers at her father with her black eyes. He was honestly a little surprised that the Duke was asking, Maximus had always known him to be rather reclusive, especially after the death of his beloved wife. He nodded though, and gestured for Evelyn to step forward. "Please do, she's been dying for a dance with someone other than me for months I'm sure." He nodded at the pair then stood up, taking advantage of most of the court's eyes following his daughter to slip away. He gestured at Tristan to follow him but paused to hug Lilith. "Best behavior, hmm?" He smiled and kissed her forehead. He loved the girl dearly, she was everything he wished to be and was behind closed doors. But responsibility came with power and like Evelyn he had little time for pleasure…well perhaps he was better at making it at least.

Once he was out of sight with Tristan, he wrapped an easy arm around the boy's slight shoulders, regarding him warmly. "You've grown, you feel stronger." He looked him over, pleased to see he'd grown so much since their last visit. "How is your home?" He lead him to his chambers and began stripping from his armor, gesturing for Tristan to help him. It was a great honor, really, to be allowed to help the King with his armor. And perhaps Maximus just enjoyed it.

​

 

[GoodEveningClarice]

Evelyn's eyes were black slits as she stared down at her little sister. They were both small women, taking after their grandmother and mother in stature, but Evelyn was just a few inches taller and it made a difference. "You are receiving one of the finest noble houses in Vanqland and all of the horses. And the Summer House. I'm inheriting the weight of the Kingdom. If you used that empty head of yours on something other than what you'll be eating next or how to escape your duties you would know how luck you are—" She shut and smiled when Duke Elric made his appearance. He was an exceedingly large man, and the rumble of his voice made Evelyn feel even smaller than she was. She sort of liked it. She turned her gaze on her Father who managed to pull himself away from violating Tristan with his eyes long enough to grant permission. How kind of him. She smiled at him all the same when he passed by as she stepped forward to take Elric's hand.

"It's a pleasure to see you again, Duke Massur. I'm honored to dance with you." She could see this going well. Her thoughts were already delving into the strategy of the match. Pinefell was a powerful northern territory and provided plenty of resources that would be fed straight to her military which would in turn—Just as the pair neared the dance floor, Evelyn was pulled from her thoughts by a sudden figure striding towards her purposefully. She squinted, not recognizing him immediately. As he came up on them, clearly uncaring that they were engaged in conversation, she finally realized he was one of the Clayburns, the younger brother she believed. She offered him a smile, rather surprised by his abruptness. "Francis Clayburn, I believe. A pleasure." He was very handsome. She glanced at the Duke who, while much older than her, was also quite handsome. She had no complaints to suddenly be suddenly flanked by the two men. She was well over six inches shorter than both of them. She suddenly stopped thinking completely when Francis blurted out his question.

She stared at him, wide eyed, trying to fathom why on earth he would announced this to her. She glanced at Elric then back to Francis and then over his shoulder to where Elizabeth was speaking to Illia. She blinked, stunned and for once was at a loss for words. "I…" She shook her head. "I had no idea. Should you be announcing that?" She looked around and gestured for a servant to bring her wine. She took the goblet and took an eager sip, spilling a few drops down her chin which she quickly wiped with her fingers as elegantly as she could. She was used to word games and deceit and navigating metaphors in court, not being told such a thing so suddenly. She tried to keep her eyes off of Elizabeth, but it was difficult not to ogle at her. One of the Clayburn's had a bastard? And the only girl at that! This night was growing progressively stranger.

​

 

[SheriffLlama]

Arren didn't relax at the king's invitation to join the party. "Thank you, My Liege, however, I wouldn't dream of putting my own pleasure in front of my duties." Arren returned to his former, reserved position. A shout drew Arren from his gaze on the crowd, and his sight set on the throne, where he was relieved to see it was only the king's nephew.

When the king left, a soldier- not a knight- went to follow, but Arren waved him off. "The King does not require escort, soldier. Return to your post." Arren nodded as the soldier returned to his position. He hadn't the power of Aleifr, but his Knightship gave him basic authorities of grunt soldiers.

Arren returned to scanning the crowd. He glanced over at Princess Lilith, seeing her rather bored and alone, then took a few steps closer to her, but still a healthy distance away. "Milady, might I assist you in anyway? A drink?" A small part of Arren wouldn't have been surprised if the princess asked him to dance...

 

[GoodEveningClarice]

Illia was patient in waiting for Elizabeth's reply, the other woman clearly had something on her mind. She smiled and nodded. "Elizabeth then." It was a kind thing to say, especially considering Illia was a bastard and a glorified whore. Truly it made her a little glad, even if she suspected the other woman to be on her way to drunk. She thought she might have heard the Clayburns had a love for wine… She glanced over her shoulder and observed the goings on around the throne. Evelyn got her dance, good. The King was slipping away with Tristan, she was hardly surprised. She turned back to Elizabeth and nodded. "Impressive. You are clearly well respected." She could imagine the girl's future sister in law fearing her cool eyes and expression, Elizabeth was no twit. "The journey from the North is a difficult one, I admire you for making it without family. I traveled to the mountains once with my mother to learn a bit of Northern culture. It's quite different."

The conversation was going well enough until Elizabeth commented on Evelyn. Oh. Illia blinked. What a brave thing to say! In such tense times, too! Illia loved both the princesses like sisters and while Evelyn could be severe, Illia would hardly be so concerned for a big man like Elric's well being. So she laughed. What else was there to do? "A fine joke." She swallowed and looked around, spotting…oh yes that was a Clayburn doing a half drunk stride straight for the princess. Elizabeth must have not noticed him…​

 

[Hell Hound Woof]

Ÿrd watched with heavy laughter the little fox was chased by the boy he had helped to raise. Telki, what a comically impish lad he had grown to be. Ÿrd was sitting near the edge of the table and watched as the boy fell before Bjarke and the Lord John Clayburn, along with Lady Serah. Ÿrd rose so that he could prevent the boy from making a fool of himself. It took Ÿrd some time to unwedge himself from the bench but did so just in time to catch Telki crawling away from Bjarke and under a nearby table. Bjarke looked over at Ÿrd and then down at Telkin, the boy had been his to watch over since he had joined the Pack and thus he became like a father to him.

Ÿrd moved over to the boy and bent over grabbing him by his belt line and pulling him back out from under the table and lifting him into the air. He set the boy so that he stood and wrapped his arm around his shoulders and guided him to the table where Ÿrd had been eating before hand.

"Be more careful," Ÿrd said in his low gruff voice, "If you anger one of these lords or ladies Bjarke will be very unhappy with you. And if you had any ideas about Lady Serah stay away, last man Bjarke managed to catch with his sister now fucks his wife with a wooden cock."

Ÿrd had no humor in his voice though it was entirely a fabricated story, one that Maryn laughed at as he slammed his drinking cup down on the table. The Archer was in high spirits, he and Serah were roughly the same age and he had always fancied her. Never exclusively of course but just enough that he would, if opportunity presented itself, put forth a significant amount of effort. He looked over to her over his shoulder as Bjarke, The Lord, and Serah spoke. He received a burly fist in his chest from across the stable, Ÿrd had the look of an angry bear as his eyes burrowed into Maryn's. Ÿrd conveyed what he needed through his look and continued to munch on his leg of poultry. Bjarke continued to speak with John.

"Aye, most pretty women are not too smart. Their fathers never saw fit to school them, they knew they'd be useful for bargaining chips. Pretty ones always do." Bjarke said with a smile, "I am happy for Francis then and you as well, hopefully one day other warriors like you and I can find ourselves brides worthy of our swords."

Bjarke let out a huge laugh and turned towards a nearby table grabbing a cup of ale and taking a sip of it. He looked around and saw the girl fawning over his sister, then he looked at his family and smiled seeing them all indulging in a their first full meal in some time. He let himself speak freely and his thoughts flowed.

"Family is the most important thing in this world. Few are the things we would not do for our family. While I am not graced with children I am graced to have all these men who'm I can trust with my life and the life of my sister. I would gladly suffer through every hell of every religion to keep every last one of them alive." Bjarke said before realizing he had began drifting off, he cleared his throat and began again, "I hope that our counterparts from Pinecliff decide to join us soon, I will see you at the council."

Bjarke excused himself and joined his men at the dinner table sitting next to Maryn, he put his hand on the young mans shoulder and clutched it. He took some pork and then a blood sausage, a pheasant bird, some bread and a few stray vegetables. He looked towards Telki and pointed a leg of pheasant at the boy.

"Telki, you must be smarter, train Kali. I cannot have you embarrassing me in front of my cousins and sister, it is important we maintain our reputation of hardened warriors and killers."

 

[Ko T'suno]

Tristan's bright smile only grew brighter and warmer as the King clasped his forearm to which Tristan responded by wrapping his free arm around the King, his bright eyes scanning over the familiar faces of the King's knights...few new faces but over all he knew everyone. His attention being drawn from a particular Knight. His attention drawing back to his hug as he felt a kiss on his cheek that he happily returned before looking back at the King. His smile possibly reminding some of a painting of a Fae in the library. A soft hum emitting from his vocals as the King told him he had grown prettier. "Why thank you, I see the years are exceedingly kind to you." He returned with a soft bow of his head and a wink that would go unnoticed by anyone who was not looking directly at Tristan's face. Noticing Maximus had waved his hand he looked around and noticed a few of the lesser known guards had their hands on their weapons. He turned to his own eight, two of which had ditched their bows and held them at a ready stance. The others having their hands on their swords. Waving to them he smiled as they returned to a none intimidating configuration. Hearing Maximus speak he turned his head back to him. "Well..it is Summer..So like always I came here..should I not have?" He asked with a amused smile. The question was obviously a joke. Before he spoke again he turned to see none other than the Duke of Pinefell.

He looked up at the taller man, an amused smile on his face as he looked from Maximus then back to the the Duke before looking over to Evelyn. A sly grin on his face..that Evelyn would understand as a. "Dancing Eve?" The thought of her dancing under the moon light as it penetrated the garden canopy filled his mind and he couldn't help but laugh softly to himself. His laughter died softly as he looked back over to the King's Knights...two of them looked so fimmiler yet he couldn't remember their names...but the blonde one with the gemstone blue eyes.. He knew he knew him..but simply couldn't remember the name..though he was indeed a looker..."Please do, she's been dying for a dance with someone other than me for months I'm sure."
"Hmm?" He went softly as the King's words snapped him out of his current day dream causing him to look around to see Evelyn and the Duke of Pinefell walking off towards the dance floor. Looking back to the King he chuckled softly and chased after him like a child. When the King stopped to hug Lilith, Tristan smiled and bowed his head to Lilith. "Pleasure to see you again Lilith." He said softly giving her a soft look of, Hey watch Eve. Lilith would understand after all they had known each other for years and she knew that all though Tristan was a carefree individual he was alarmingly protective of the Royal Family.

Once he and the King were out of sight he looked up to him as he felt his arm wrap around his shoulders. Tristan smiled happily and wrapped his arm around the King's waist. "I did? Hmm I could not tell..." He said with a self inspecting tone as he looked over his own frame and then at the King as though com parring the two. .Hearing the King ask about his home he sighed softly. "That Bishop has continued his near endless attempts to get into our Court..as well as attack the West city. Reports say hes been cutting our trade routes to the west thinking it will starve us out..but I think he forgets all out imports come fro through the East City..." He responded softly as he walked next to the King. His small frame pressing softly against the King's side as they walked towards the King's chamber. When they entered Tristan was quick to shut the door with his heel as he watched for a second as the King began stripping from his armor, Before walking up behind him and undoing some of the holdings when the King gestured. Tristan's able hands were use to putting on and removing armor so it was not long before the he most of the King's armor off of him.