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 Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2010 1:45 pm
This is an arranged marriage one on one between Leid and Mad Hatters Revenge (myself). Lurking is welcome, but don't you date post if you're name isn't listed above! smile
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Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2010 2:19 pm
 Presenting His Royal Highness: Elwin Thane The traits of their birth: Light blue eyes, close enough to being gray. Wavy lush brown hair of a rich and deep hue cascading just passed his shoulders. Standing at 5 feet, 10 inches. 20 years of gracing his kingdom. Markings that set them apart from the normal standard: TBA if I can think of something cool. The scribes have recorded this so far: Elwin Thane was born the second to youngest of three siblings that had survived passed the first years of life. A few others had come before him and one after him who were too sickly and weak to live outside of the womb for more than a few years. The children who had sprung from his mother's womb seemed nearly cursed with such a light frame and weak heart that simple illness could take a strong hold on the infant strangling the life from them. The only three that managed to live to grow to adulthood were Elwin, his older brother and his younger sister. Being quite older Elwin's brother learned to fight and led the army with aid from the warlord of the land. He would have lived a long life if he wasn't struck down in battle. The remaining two, much younger, children were spoiled, given everything they could want or desire. Elwin, from this, became spoiled rotten. The loss of his family members did hurt the boy, but sadness never stayed for too long as he could command someone to entertain him and the sadness would soon be forgotten. The young prince soon inherited the war his father started before his passing, and for a while it was just himself and his sister, having lost his mother to heart ache of losing her only child to have made it to adulthood. Now with just his younger sister, Elwin had only a few advisers left from his father's time to aid him in ruling a country. A plan was set up for come to a truce, opening trade routes with the other country and taking the young princess to be his bride. He was told that she was demur and beautiful and willing to please her new king. Elwin adored the idea.
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Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2010 2:44 pm
 Presenting, your fearless knight: Elizabeth Namara
The traits of their birth: Dark green eyes. Black hair, straight, falling to small of her back. Standing at 5 feet, 6inches. 19 years of gracing her kingdom. Markings that set them apart from the normal standard: A scar runs down her back, from between her shoulder blades to the small of her back, an unfortunate accident involving sword play when she was younger. The scribes have recorded this so far: Elizabeth was born into a family with only one other child, her older brother. Like any valiant prince, he looked after his younger sister constantly. He was who all the suitors had to impress before they were given a chance to meet with her, and if he didn’t approve, she knew she would hate the man as well. He taught her everything he knew, the basics of fighting for when he wasn’t around, how to move through the woods quietly enough to sneak up on a stag, anything that would ensure she could remain safe when he was married to a young princess and couldn’t afford to spend as much time with her. Her time with him was cut in half when the war began, and than cut off all together when he was brought home lifeless. Doing her best to keep her parents happy, and proud of her, she did everything she could to ensure that the war wouldn’t farther damage their family or their kingdom. So when her father informed her there would be a truce, one involving her to go marry the savage king they’d been fighting for so long, Elizabeth bit her tongue and nodded her agreement. Not that she had any say in the matter anyway, she just knew it would be easier on her parents if they knew she was able to take what they were putting her through. The biggest loss she feels from this truce, is her freedom. With no idea how women are treated in the other kingdom (assuming just a step better than the dogs), she worried that riding horses, practicing with a sword, reading whatever she chose or even at least going along for wild hunts would simply be put to an end. Which left only time to keep to herself and be…well whatever sort of wife the man would demand of her.
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Posted: Tue Mar 02, 2010 11:57 pm
((Will add picture when I'm home and able to down size it to fit on posts properly.))
Once upon a time, in a kingdom filled with hope, prince charming was killed in a war. What many stories leave out is that the princes who save the princess have families; they must have come from somewhere after all. When prince charming died, his parents could take no more of the war. His sister’s heart was broken into pieces so small they could pass through the eye of a needle. Even with their son dead, it took the king and queen close to an entire year before they finally decided that their had been too much blood shed. Too many families left trying to put the pieces back together after loosing someone they cherished.
That is where Elizabeth became more useful than normal, her father had informed her only a week ago that she would be married off to the other king. Which should of course be seen as happy, since after all, it would make her a queen and end a war. However, they knew that it may not be all that wonderful when she had grown use to her lifestyle in their home. Staring at her reflection as the maids combed through her and finished putting her dress on, she let out a small sigh and closed her eyes to try not to think on it too much.
“Lady Elizabeth, I’m sure that the rumors aren’t all completely true, once you’ve grown to know each other I’m sure your new husband will be a good man.” Her ‘servants’ had learned long ago that speaking freely with her was something she encouraged, she enjoyed hearing the rumors roaming around the castle, and when they saw fit to try and comfort her, it helped.
Leaving her hair down, tucking a white lily above her right ear, they finally stopped fussing with her hair and stepped back to see if their work was finished. The deep purple gown reached the floor, pooling slightly around her feet. The silk fabric hugged her body from her feet up to the opt of her chest. The sleeves themselves weren’t actually attached to the dress, they started just below her shoulders, held in place with white ribbon, and hugged her arms until they reach her wrists, where the fabric was open; wide enough that she felt she could hide a rabbit in her sleeve without notice is she tried.
Nodding her head, she managed to give them a small smile, “I hope so, regardless of what he’s like, if it means the fighting stops, then I shall be able to endure whatever he throws at me.” The man in question, was suppose to arrive soon to retrieve her. In her mind it was thought that he wouldn’t be staying the night, no one was comfortable enough to stay in one place all together, but she knew the offer would be extended when he arrived. The rumors were, however, that he would simply arrive, collect her and her belongings, and they’d be on their way for the long journey back to his home. Elizabeth frowned at the thought, realizing that soon it would be considered her home, not just his.
“We’ve finished my lady, your father requests that you wait with him once you’re ready.” In other words, it was time to go sit beside her father in the main room, and deal with the awkward silence that was bound to happen. Sliding her feet into the white slippers, she awaited as the servants slid a sliver chain around her neck, her kingdoms crest dangling from the end, decorated with rubies. It was suppose to be a sign that they weren’t just giving him a new bride, they were giving him the kings only living off spring. Fidgeting with the ends of her sleeves, she finally nodded. “I believe that’s everything, shall we go and see how this king is in person?” With that, Elizabeth and the two servants taking care of her, made their way to the throne room.
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Posted: Thu Apr 08, 2010 9:58 am
Elwin Thane
Across from me sat the new emperor and I asked him why he cried
No one stays around anymore, I cannot guess why, in my world they should try
I asked how loyal are your subjects
"Not" was the child king's reply, "Rarely will they comply"
Elwin had been leading the war for nearly a year by this point. His advisers gave him advice and informed him of many things he needed to know. He was told how the other country started it by harming his great kingdom, how they horded and stole resources and made a mockery of the crown. Little did he know his head was being filled with lies and half-truths, and that even his orders were altered before reaching the generals. A truce had been settled. Apparently the other king begged on his knees for forgiveness from the great Elwin, and the princess offered herself to him out of longing for his wits and power. The young king wished he could have seen it himself. The idea made his heart quiver with joy. Of course this, too, was a lie.
Elwin was informed that as a sign of his benevolence and forgiveness he had to travel to the other kingdom to retrieve his soon-to-be queen. He really didn't want to have to travel all the way out there and would rather be presented with his bride, but figured it would be good to show himself off to the other house hold so they knew just who they were surrendering to: The Wise and Grand King Elwin Thane. The morning he would go to see his new wife he was woken up by a servant with a hot breakfast of eggs and meat with a tall glass of a delightful wine that wasn't too strong for the morning. After he ordered his food to be taken away he was bathed. The water was set to the perfect temperature before he lowered himself into the tub to be washed by his servants. After he was finished, the dried him off and dressed him, combed his hair and made sure he was ready to go out.
The young king stood regally, waiting to be escorted to the carriage. The stiff fabric of his jacket was a clean white, with distinct shoulders and flare pinned to his chest, a golden sash hung across his chest embroidered with the emblem of his homeland. His slacks were well tailored, his boots polished and a glimmering crown sat perfectly upon his head. A guard came to his side and walked him out of the castle to the carriage. The ride was rather long, only having one of his advisers and a guard to accompany him in this carriage, a small procession behind him. The adviser talked for a while, then all went silent and boredom set in and the young king took to gazing out the window.
After some time the procession arrived at the surrendering kingdom and they went right up to the castle. Fan fair played from long horns to announce their arrival. Elwin waited until someone opened the door for him and he stepped out. He was then escorted into the castle, his tawny hair gleaming in the sun. By now his boredom turned into excitement as he saw before him the beautiful young maiden that was to be his queen. He stepped forward, his guard and his adviser only a step behind him.
"As King of the land of Lerbaine, I hereby accept the offer of the princess's hand in marriage and for the truce between our kingdoms. May your land know peace and prosperity from this day forward!" Elwin spoke with out a stutter, with out a flinch or hesitation; like a true king. He then would continue with any other parts to the ritual they needed to do and finish everything with a signing of a contract.
It wasn't before long that the princess would be approached by Elwin.
"Come, my beautiful bride. It is time for you to travel to your knew home," he said in a softer tone, a cocky glimmer in his eyes as he offered her his elbow to escorted her back to the carriage to start the longish journey back.
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Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2010 11:28 am
She’d known that he was young, however the tales she’d heard just…well she’d expected someone a bit more intimidating. He was so close to her own age that she wasn’t completely sure if he was older or not. What she did know, was that the rumor of his self-righteous attitude was true. The urge to hit him was very strong, however the point of this marriage was to end the war, not start one all over again. Looking to her parents, she forced herself to give them a reassuring smile.
Elizabeth’s mother approached her first, giving her a brief but strong hug before kissing both her cheeks, a gesture that Elizabeth returned before pulling away to do the same with her father. “Be careful my dear.” He whispered, hugging her tightly causing her to smile a bit more. “I’ll be just fine father.” She whispered back before finally pulling away. No point in delaying their guests after all, wouldn’t want to give them a reason to start more horrible rumors about her family.
“We happily agree with your truce offer, and are glad you could grace us with your visit, and of course you’re agreement to marry our only daughter.” He seemed to struggle with that, after all the last child they had was now being dragged away by long term enemies.
Biting her tongue to keep from saying anything she might regret, she slipped her arm through his, resting it lightly against his forearm. Following him away from her parents to the carriage, and away from her home. She didn’t speak a word, after all other than telling her to come with him, she hadn’t really been directed enough to speak without it being taken the wrong way. She’d have to learn how his kingdom treated women before she began speaking much, or doing much at all really. ((Ick, sorry it's so short, my brain died halfway through it sad ))
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Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2010 7:28 pm
Elwin Thane
Across from me sat the new emperor and I asked him why he cried
No one stays around anymore, I cannot guess why, in my world they should try
I asked how loyal are your subjects
"Not" was the child king's reply, "Rarely will they comply"
After any last ceremonial rites were finished up Elwin escorted his young bride out to the awaiting carriage, his guard and adviser following with them. The young king was to enter first, followed by his bride, next was the elderly adviser and lastly was the hulking guard. There was enough room for the group and soon they were off with only two carriages following behind, the rest of the procession stayed behind to gather any of Elizabeth's things she'd wish to take with her, any clothes and such. After her things were packed they'd silently leave, being mostly servants.
"Quite exciting, isn't it?" Elwin inquired, his eyes wide, a little smile dazzling his face. "You coming to my great nation to live in the lap of luxury as my queen to be waited on hand and foot. Tomorrow morning we shall be wed; I've had three dresses started for you to wear. One is small, one which might not be fore you, not having seen you before you may have been shorter. Then there was one quite bigger, which I'm glad we will be able to discard, but not to worry, there is a third between those two sizes that will be finished tonight. Then we shall have a formal dinner and then off to bed to rest for our big day tomorrow. It shall be a grand ceremony."
Elwin seemed thrilled to be marrying the princess, or maybe he was just happy to have come out so victorious from the treaty. The guard looked bored, staring out the window at the scenery as it passed by. The adviser listened to the young king, his thin features reserved, his hands folded.
"When we arrive," he said in a low tone, his voice thick and strong despite his sullen features, "you will be shown to your room, after the wedding you will be moved into his Highness's chambers. Between now and the consummation tomorrow midday we expect you to stay in your room as so you don't get turned about in your new home." He then drew out a long pipe and took a moment to light a match to crisp the leaves that still were packed in. Deeply inhaling a light a sweet smoke filled the small cabin and as he exhaled smoke billowed from his dry lips and he continued, "Tomorrow, after consummation there will be a parade; this will be a short ride through the cleaner parts of the kingdom, and then after that the two of you are free to frolic." The last bit came out with an odd quivering smile, perhaps to imply further fornication after consummation or whatever it was youth did now-a-days.
Elwin quickly spoke once his adviser was finished. "I can show you all around the castle. I can take you for a romantic horse ride and I can take you to do anything. It'll be most good," he said, his words laced with enthusiasm and sprinkled with hints of vanity and selfishness. It seemed that he was genuine enough, albeit a spoiled brat.
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Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2010 10:42 pm
Elizabeth was uncertain what surprised her most, that this young king was actually excited to be marrying her, or that he seemed much too young to be a king. Not that he looked too young, many men were crowned much younger than he she was sure, however he just didn’t….act old enough really. By now any man his age would’ve gone through so many battles both within his own kingdom and with others, that he’d be worn down, wiser, colder. The man before her though, was none of those things. She felt as if she could take him in any type of battle and not have to try very hard, since she doubted he’d ever seen a live battle or even held a sword for more than just show. When the subject turned to marriage, and sharing a bedroom, she felt her stomach turn. Her mind had been ignoring that part of the agreement. The part about sharing a bed with a stranger. About having to do whatever he requested of her. She wondered how many excuses she could make up to avoid the actual duties most wives had to perform before she would have no other choice.
The advisors words shocked her a bit more than the boys entertainment, and she couldn’t help but show it a little on her face. She had to stay in her room for hours on end, without being able to get to know her new home? Having it shown to her wouldn’t help her feel very welcome in it as it would if she’d be able to take her time to get to know every detail of it. Which would be nice considering she wouldn’t feel very safe in there for a good long while. Tangling her fingers together for a moment, she forced herself to stop and remain still before asking, quietly and politely as possible, “I’ll have my belongings in my room I trust? So that I’ll have some way to entertain myself during those hours?” All she could do was hope that she would at least be in her room alone, or with only a single servant who wouldn’t feel the need to talk her ears off. It wasn’t that she didn’t want to be around anyone in his…well hers as well soon enough…kingdom. It was simply that she would adjust better if she wasn’t surrounded by strangers the first few hours she was there. Dinner would be nerve-racking enough, spending hours in a room with a stranger would just be torture. Especially considering after the one night, she’d no longer have a room of her own. Everything would be shared by Elwin. He’d be allowed to go through any of her things and do whatever he wished with them. She wasn’t sure based on his first impressions that he had the heart to be cruel to anyone, but she knew better than to believe first encounters.
All his talk about a romantic horse ride, and a parade, it was all a little overwhelming. She knew to expect a large celebration, but she figured that would mean very little private time, especially for what his advisor seemed to think they would be doing. His smile made a chill run down her spine, an unpleasant one that made her decide that at the moment, he was her least favorite person, and would probably be one of her biggest problems. Thinking on the matter, maybe being alone for so many hours wouldn’t be a great idea. “Or, well if it’s all right, I’d like to get a good look at my new home, and I would be more than happy to have a guard show me around, to ensure I don’t get lost or wander anywhere I shouldn’t.” She offered with a small hopeful smile, doing her best to sound as meek and afraid as possible. Her brother had taught her one thing, that being a female, it would make it much easier for her to get her way. When surrounded by enemies, if she appeared weak and helpless, she’d be able to get the upper hand when, or if, she ever needed to.
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Posted: Thu Jun 24, 2010 10:20 am
Elwin Thane
Across from me sat the new emperor and I asked him why he cried
No one stays around anymore, I cannot guess why, in my world they should try
I asked how loyal are your subjects
"Not" was the child king's reply, "Rarely will they comply"
The elderly man wrapped his withered lips around his pipe breathing in deep the smoky flavor on the dried leaves, his senses unwinding and his old body becoming more relaxed. He took another breath in and held it feeling the smoke in his lungs. His gaze drifted across to the guard who he then nudged with his foot.
"Paying attention I hope," the old man said coldly. "Wouldn't want to be killed by bandits."
"Yessir," the much larger man said sitting up more in his seat.
Elwin watched the two, then looked across to Elizabeth to answer her questions. He still seemed rather excited, the smile on his face going from ear to ear, his brown eyes glimmering.
"Your things will be following us in a procession just a bit behind us. Anything that you should want shall be brought to your new home," the young king said in what could be assumed as a prideful yet reassuring tone. He then moved on to her next question.
"That would be grand! The two of us could take a walk--" Elwin started, but the old and withered voice of the adviser next to him took over.
"You will be expected to wait in your room until you are called upon for supper," the adviser's tone was sharp and strict. "And you, your highness," he said shifting his gaze to the young king beside him, "you have studies to attend to today. Your bride will have plenty to do in her room, and such a tiny thing as she is this trip may tire her and she will need her rest."
Elwin was disappointed, clearly evident by the way he sank into his seat, pouting. He sighed and folded his arms, knowing it wasn't wise to argue with his adviser. The man was a genius, he knew everything and Elwin knew there was no way to get through that man's logic. He was the one who formed the treaty with the barbaric nation anyway, so he must be right. A well learned king was a good king, that's what he was always told. He wanted to be smart and one day he'd know every fact he possibly could and become the wisest ruler to ever be in charge of Lerbaine. He settled it in his mind that later he would have time to get to know his lovely queen.
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Posted: Tue Jun 29, 2010 11:27 pm
The sure shock of the conversation was very hard to hide on her face. Never had she heard an advisor speak to a king in such a way, though the boys reaction made it clear just how young he was, and how easy it was for his advisor to take advantage of that fact. Not that she thought it out of place for the advisor to give suggestions, however he wasn’t just giving suggestions, he was barking orders, at his new queen, and own king as well! Maybe she didn’t expect to be welcome by him with open arms, but she was amazed that the boy let himself be talked to as if her were a child who couldn’t make up his own mind. It was merely a walk, to keep a new wife from being locked in her room for hours on end, missing a few hours of study wouldn’t hurt the boys chances at being king, he already was. With the advisor he currently had, she wondered if any studies at all would ever change how the man spoke to him. While Elwin found it fine to sit and say nothing in his own defense, she found it difficult to bite her tongue, though she knew better than to say anything offensive. “Tiny as I may appear to you, I can assure you my family did not raise a weak queen. Trips such as this one, though it may be lengthy, will not steal as much of my energy as it would other women who are use to being inside most of their days.” She said, with a soft, gentle tone, and reassuring smile, even though in her mind there were a few more statements boiling to get out. Locking her in her new room during her first few hours in a new home, did not make her feel comfortable at all, it made her wonder how often they would try to do so. Glancing back at Elwin, she offered an even warmer smile, “I can assure you I’ll have plenty of energy after supper to take that walk with you.” Glancing over at the guard the man had nudged, she quickly changed the subject. “Have you always been a personal guard?” She was curious, but also wondering if bringing up the matter of personal guards would give her some clue as to who would be in charge of watching her when the king wasn’t around, for example, when she would have to wait in her room for hours before supper.
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Posted: Sun Jul 04, 2010 11:22 am
Elwin Thane
Across from me sat the new emperor and I asked him why he cried
No one stays around anymore, I cannot guess why, in my world they should try
I asked, "How loyal are your subjects?"
"Not" was the child king's reply, "Rarely will they comply"
The adviser's cold gaze drifted along the young woman's features as she spoke. How bold she was to speak, to insist, even in such a sweet tone. Dulcet, breathy words or not he read between to her intentions. She was raised to be a strong woman. This did not sit well with the older man. The look of displeasure swirled around his face barely masked by the haze of smoke that billowed slowly from his thin lips. Even the dried leaves wouldn't soothe his mind now. He turned his gaze to the view out the window ignoring the woman's words and let his thoughts drift. It seemed like he had something important to mull over. Not to be defeated, he offered a faint and low hum, then spoke.
"Then we shall see how you feel when we arrive," he said dismissively.
Elwin still sat, pouting. His arms laid across his front, his shoulders stiff. He sucked on the inside of his lower lip, forcing it to bow upwards. His eyebrows were knit and his eyes were intent on the quickly passing landscape. His thin legs that stretched out to the knee before him started to move. A slow motion as he became restless pushing his knees together then apart. The soft sound of his bride-to-be's voice fell reassuringly over him and he eased. His shoulders lowered and his lips hinted at a soft smile. Cut off from the normal human interaction most grow up with the young king didn't pick up on her actions as being strong and daring, and was still under the notion that Elizabeth was as delicate as a flower. Elwin shifted in his seat and sat up to address his lady.
"That would be grand! After supper I can show you everything you would ever want to see of your new home," a sincere smile rested on the king's face, just the voice of his new love eased his thoughts.
The large man seated beside Elizabeth wasn't quick to answer. His eyes looked from the view out the window to the old man directly across from him. He looked him over as the old man drew in another puff from his pipe and let the smoke billow out from his mouth and out of the window. Slowly the guard turned his head and took a glance at Elizabeth.
"No, too much responsibility comes with this job to be given to a fresh recruit," as he spoke he turned his eyes back to the landscape, ever vigilant. "I started as, basically, cannon fodder and lived," he continued stealing a glance at the still uninterested old man, but mostly keeping his eyes on the outside of the carriage. "After being given higher and higher ranks in the military I was hand picked to be a guard by his highness's father himself. But that was years ago." The gruff man's voice had a hint of pride in it as he spoke, but managed to keep a smile from forming on his face.
"We should be home soon," Elwin said quickly. "It's a long trip, yes, but soon enough at least," he added correction himself. "You will be given your own guard and handmaidens. The guard will protect you as a priority, but all the guards are equally protective of the royal family. Your handmaidens, however, will be just for you. They will bathe you and dress you and sit with you while you have some tea, perhaps," Elwin explained, rather pleased at the moment. "Surely, your handmaidens will gladly sit with you in your room before you come down for supper while I am doing my studies." Elwin paused with a thought, then continued, "Do you have a handmaiden coming along with your things?"
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Posted: Mon Jul 05, 2010 12:53 am
The old man hid it well, but Elizabeth knew by his wording and body language that he was not happy with her answer. Even more so, that he had dismissed the discussion by saying they’d see how she was when they arrived. It made her want to laugh, feeling like he simply chose his words as if he didn’t believe that she really could manage the ride without being tired later on. Just by the few moments she’d known the old man, she knew there would probably be more of these little ‘tests’ as the days went by, because unlike her new husband, she would speak up if she didn’t agree with something, and she was hoping she’d even be able to teach him a thing or two. Yes, the man was an advisor, and from what she’d heard, a good one, but that didn’t mean his advice had to be used for every decision the boy had to make.
Smiling at his instant change in mood from pouting to excited, she only looked away to politely listen to the guard. The hint of pride as he discussed his background briefly made her smile more, there were no better warriors than the ones that were proud of where they were and how they’d gotten there. “It is a great honor to be hand picked by your king, I’m glad I had the pleasure of meeting you before you become too busy with your duties.”
Her attention was quickly drawn back to her new husband when he discussed the handmaids. Elizabeth had been very close to her maids at home, to the point where she’d convinced them to let her do a few things without them fussing over her the whole time. If she bathed, they were allowed to relax and they’d all simply talk about the day, then she’d do most of the dressing, until she got to the lacing in the back, which she just couldn’t do without an extra pair of hands. While her heart ached at the thought of her friends, she’d refused to bring any of them with her. “I only have objects coming with me, I couldn’t bring myself to bring one of my girls. Each and every one of them has a family, they’re mothers, sisters, daughters, and I would never forgive myself if I broke up a family when I would have new girls waiting for me that would be able to help me out just as well.” Knowing that there would be someone with her in her room, made the fact that she’d be stuck in there a bit more bearable, it actually made her curious as to how well the first meeting with her new girls would go.
“I am the only new face your people will have to grow accustomed to seeing around.” She added at the end, mostly to help hint that she would not be in her room constantly, and only the first few days would she willingly go there. After she was shown around though, she would reassure to no end, that she would be perfectly fine walking around the palace or the grounds, especially with a guard with her when Elwin was not. He seemed so sweet, genuinely excited to actually have a wife, it made her wonder just how much time they really gave him to relax and do as he pleased. However, it also made her nervous that he was only being so kind today so that she would send good news back to her family, and after he’d act like himself and be cold and distant.
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Posted: Sat Jul 10, 2010 11:55 am
Elwin Thane
Across from me sat the new emperor and I asked him why he cried
No one stays around anymore, I cannot guess why, in my world they should try
I asked how loyal are your subjects
"Not" was the child king's reply, "Rarely will they comply"
The large man beside the new queen allowed himself a pleased smile as he continued his vigilant gaze out the window, not allowing himself to fix on one thing or zone out for even a moment. He was raised in a kingdom where women were mostly seen and not usually heard, and while it was still ingrained in him from birth to think ill of her he couldn't help but be pleased at who she was directing her tongue to. Serving for the late king, then to his son was a step down for reasons other than the actual king himself. The air of contempt that floated between the adviser and the guard grew as thick as the smoke that was starting to fill the car.
The young king was nearly oblivious to the tension. His eyes and attention were so focused on his beautiful bride that he didn't wish to pay attention to anything else. Yes, she did seem to speak out of turn, but it wasn't to him so it really didn't bother him at all. As far as he thought he was at the top, then his queen would be at his arm, second in command to him, must like his father and mother were. Below this would be the adviser and the commanding knights. Anything below that had no voice to him.
Elwin listened with intent to Elizabeth as she spoke, offering obviously flirtatious smiles across the cab to her. Despite being baffled as to why she wouldn't want to bring her own servants with her he continued to trying to be desirable. Thinking he was doing a grand job he dared to slide his foot toward her own so that the toe of his shoe pressed against the side of the toe of her shoe. A daring little act, yet innocent enough.
The rest of the ride wouldn't stir much conversation. The adviser calmed himself with his pipe until the dried leaves were too burnt to continue smoking. The guard went on with his watch out the window and Elwin would move his foot closer until the side of his foot was against the side of her foot, a smile would be offered to her every so often, but mostly for now the cab was filled with a mostly relaxed silence. Time didn't pass too slowly as the new queen could look out her window and enjoy the rolling landscape far off in the distance passed the trees and lakes. Soon enough the dirt path would turn into a fine cobble stone until they reached the castle. Not far off she could see the city the castle ruled over and they passed the surfs working hard in the fields, and walking along the road. Some stopped and stared, while others thought to bow.
As they were brought to the castle she would be able to see a group of people waiting. It looked like a small group of guards and a few well dressed servants of different ages, and then others who were even still better dressed, but hard to place exactly who they were. The carriage rolled to a stop and for a moment no one moved. The door to the cab was opened and first the guard stepped out. It took him a bit of maneuvering to get his broad shoulders through and step out, the carriage rocking as he did. Then a hand would be reached in for her. The man who opened the door reached in for the new queen to be helped out, then the king, and at last the adviser.
Once out Elizabeth would be swarmed by three women, one a bit older with graying hairs swept up into a tight bun, the other two a bit younger, probably closer to Elizabeth's own age roughly, one with light hair and one with darker hair. Following the three women was a stern faced guard, different from the one who had been in the cab with her.
If she looked she would see the adviser and his own guard and one servant move into the castle, the adviser clearly requesting something to drink from the servant to be sent to his room. She could also see Elwin with his guard, a handful of servants. One his own age who he was speaking with directly, the two seemed close, and the king seemed to be trying to speak candidly about his new queen. The smiles and faintly redden cheeks of his highness would denote that the words he was saying were favorable. Elizabeth might even over hear that Elwin was being taken to his study for a lesson.
As he was taken into a different direction the oldest of Elizabeth's handmaidens spoke up.
"I made sure that your sheets were cleaned this morning, my lady, and the room has been dusted and polished, and the windows have been open to give you plenty of air and sunshine," her voice was stern and her back was straight, but a clear respect was being shown to the younger woman. It seemed like this woman had this particular job for a long time, and maybe she took it very seriously.
The three women and the guard would take her to her room, the inside of the castle much different from the one in her homeland. Crests and colors that were nothing like her old nation, art and and symbols she may have never seen before simply because of the distance and recent war between the two. While lovely and warm the large building may very well feel foreboding and strange to Elizabeth. She would be guided up a flight of stairs and to a room. The door would be opened for her and inside there was a large bed with linen sheets and many pillows complete with a sheer canopy for keeping out bugs on warmer nights. As promised the windows were open to bring in the soft smell of the late afternoon air. The room had a nice decor of some small sculpted figures as well as pottery filled with flowers. This and the furniture would be in the room, but not much else, leaving space for any of her coming personal items.
"This is your room, my lady," the older woman spoke up once more, the three of the handmaidens in the room, the guard staying outside the now closed door. "Is there anything you require now? Dinner will be served in about an hour or two, but a small morsel could be made if you wish for it."
"Or you could have a bath, my lady," one of the younger girls chimed in in a sweet and enthusiastic voice. "We sent for fresh oils and soaps for you. I smelled some myself and they are wonderful if I do say."
((As for your handmaidens if you want you can play any of them once you get the feel. If you've ever seen The Secret Garden, Mary's two servants are the main inspiration here, only the older servant is actually nice. Also, the third servant, her personality is open for you to pick if you like.))
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Posted: Sat Jul 10, 2010 3:21 pm
 While she was grateful the rest of the ride passed in silence, to help avoid any further conflict, she was still glad that she’d been able to speak to more than just her husband, and other than the advisor, the two seemed pleased with their first meeting. His flirtatious gestures did make her smile, even blush lightly, and she never pulled her foot away. It was cute, an innocent gesture, something Elizbeth hadn’t had the pleasure to witness in many years.
The view during the trip was enough to keep her content until their arrival, and it was like each of them was rushed off to do their own things, barely even time to wish each other well. It flustered her a little bit, but when she was in her new room, it was hard to think on much of anything at all when the girls were already speaking a mile a minute, even the one who looked old enough that she shouldn’t be able to do many laboring chores.
Taking in her new room, she first went to the window to enjoy the view and the fresh air. Turning her attention to the women, she gave a small bow, “Thank you so much, everything looks lovely.” As they asked what she would like, a beverage and a bath sounded lovely to help relax her and pass time before dinner. It would help make her a bit more presentable to the new nobles she was about to meet. “A drink and a bath sound lovely.” Giving a small laugh as the girl explained about the soaps, she nodded, “Then I’m sure I’ll agree with you and they’ll smell lovely.”
Before she had time to blink, they were in motion to fulfill her request, one off to get a drink, the other to fill the tub with hot water. The third, walked over, her face beat red, eyes on the floor as she began unlacing her corest for her, stumbling a bit with her hands and taking a few moments to undue the first tie. The poor girls hands were shaking, and Elizabeth felt like it was either her first day in the castle, or she was just shy around new people. “You can relax love, I won’t bite.” She teased, causing the small girl to laugh a bit, before she finally calmed down and was able to help Elizabeth out of her gown and into a white bath gown with ease.
As the girls were busy in her room, Edward, who was Elwin's age, was following his king to his study, never very far from his side while he was home. Part of him had slightly wished he'd been able to go with him when they retrieved their new queen, but the adviser had made it clear that there would only be the three going, anymore would overwhelm her. As the king began talking of her, he instantly felt that his friend was already head over heels in love with the foreign beauty. A quick glance before they'd been ushered inside, and couldn't help but agree that she did look lovely, it was no wonder the king was already giddy with joy.
When they were in his study, everyone busy shuffling around to prepare for his lesson, the young man took a seat next to his friend. "So, from what I've gathered you're fond of your new bride? I hope everyone welcomes her as openly as you have, it will be a great peace if our people love our new queen and are able to forget the war."
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Posted: Sat Jul 10, 2010 4:30 pm
Elwin Thane
Across from me sat the new emperor and I asked him why he cried
No one stays around anymore, I cannot guess why, in my world they should try
I asked how loyal are your subjects
"Not" was the child king's reply, "Rarely will they comply"
Elwin walked with Edward and took his seat in his study his friend beside him all the while. As the instructor got himself situated the two boys had a moment to talk like before most of their lessons if they arrived early enough, which was common. Elwin sat back in his large overstuffed chair looking over the books laid out in front of him. He heard Edward speak and his cheeks dazzled a hint of red and he couldn't help but smile.
"I am quite more then just fond, Edward," Elwin said, leaning in with a soft laugh. "Anyways, my subjects will have to adore their new Queen as I will decree it. Any slight against my beloved should be punished," he added passionately.
Elwin usually did have his head in the clouds or his nose in a book. Stories of kings with a buxom bride swooning on their bulky arms tended to fill his head. While he did have this caricature of what a king should be in his mind he still was much like many young men his age. He did understand there was a difference, but didn't seem to know exactly what this difference was. At least Edward would have always known that his thoughts and feelings were genuine and his words was always true. With the proper advisory he would have had a good head and grand heart for being King. Sadly, the withered old man allowed the boy's thoughts to be lost in the clouds. It made his strings easier to pull.
Soon the lesson started, the rail thin middle-aged professor spoke about the economy and how it effects living, and how funding for his knights and servants are effected by this. The basic lesson was something he was brought to understand at a younger age, but they spoke about current trends and the trickier details. Elwin excelled after the initial hump of boredom was overcome. At the door the guard waited, two of the King's servants sat by and simply waited.
In the bath Elizabeth would be ready for her bath, the young shy maid having changed her while the eldest woman fetched a nice cool drink and the cheerful maiden had the bath prepared. A tub of warmed water would be waiting the smells of the oils drifting light through the air. In the room was one more woman who had a band of ribbon and a bit of parchment to write on. As Elizabeth entered the room this woman would approach her.
"This woman is going to measure you for your wedding dress and tailor something for you for dinner tonight," said the older woman said, rolling up her sleeves.
The tailor took a moment to measure and write down everything she needed, curtsied with a soft voice of thanks and went about her business.
"Come now," the old woman said at last, moving to Elizabeth to remove the gown. She then helped her into the bath. While the younger girls showed shame the eldest didn't seem to let her job bother her. Once Elizabeth was settled in the eldest woman would hold the cool drink on a tray for the new queen to take and drink at her leisure.
"Doesn't the water feel warm, my Lady?" chimed the cheery young handmaiden with the darker hair. Her sleeves were rolled up and she set to work. She took a thick bar of soap in her hand and dipped it into the water then brought it up and over Elizabeth's back.
"Isn't that just soothing?" she said, then leaned in. "I wish I was the one marrying His Highness. He's so handsome and the dress is just lovely, I got to see it yesterday." By now Elizabeth might have noticed that her accent was a bit different than most of the other people around here.
"Oh, but I don't know what His Highness would want with a plain girl like me," she added with a laugh, her mood staying light. She continued to bathe Elizabeth, moving next to her arms, then her legs, not venturing into more private areas as the soapy water should be enough to clean there.
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