Fantasy A Royal Engagement [Closed]

[Misty Gray]

Edward grinned as he saw the mischief in Gwyn's eyes with regards to those who may underestimate her. "I'm not worried at all, Gwynyffer. I look forward to it," he assured her. "I know at least one knight I'll be happy to see embarrassed," he joked, as he thought of an Algonian knight named Henry. Henry was a big rude oaf who would benefit from a bit of a knock to his ego.

"I'm just curious about what led you onto this path. Not because you're a female knight, but because I just enjoy learning about people's lives. Before I was King Leo's advisor, I spent a lot of time at sea and visiting all kinds of lands. I sometimes miss making new discoveries and meeting people from different cultures. You're not obliged to tell me anything, it's just an old habit," he reassured her. He followed Gwyn's look to Rosie and saw the same look he'd seen a couple of times before. He couldn't see any ill intention behind the woman's expression and she still seemed genuine towards the princess. He was certain his concerns were meant for Frederick and not the knight. He only hoped Frederick wouldn't find a way to use Gwyn's and Rosie's growing friendship. "No, don't get me wrong. Rosie is happy, I'm sure of that. But she is usually quite a shy person, so it's wonderful to see her out of her shell and making new friends," he warmly told her.

Andrew frowned at Geoffrey's warning, but then nodded his head. He'd witnessed people being killed and it wasn't a nice experience. In time he managed to overcome it, with his optimistic and positive nature eventually finding a way to overcome it. "Yes, Sir. I know you're right. It's something I know I will have to deal with," he said, looking to the ground. He knew people thought he was immature and had his head in the clouds. Maybe they were right, but his life so far had been decided for him. He wanted to have some choice in his own future. He was still surprised Frederick had kept him on as his personal page for so long and often worried his days were numbered - especially when the prince found out about his failure regarding information on Emile Hasard. Andrew brightened up a little when Geoffrey introduced himself. "I'm Andrew... Andrew Fisher. Not that my surname is of any importance," he quickly added. Not many people ever wanted to know anything more about the servant than just his first name.​

 

[redroseknight]

"Before the tournament, be sure to point him out. I can be sure to give him a lesson in humility." The red head patted her horse when he pranced in place. "Patience is a virtue, Cathan." His explanation made sense to Gwyn, but she still felt that there had to be more to it. No doubt there was concern that she was getting close to Rosie just to use her for Frederick, which she could understand. Boy would she be getting an even more intense interrogation if they had an idea of why she truly was spending so much time with the princess.

"Since you put it so kindly, I find myself incapable of not at least indulging your curiosity. In case you are unfamiliar with the practice in Elfian, all noble houses must have a child become a knight pledged to the king. Ingenious, really, since it keeps the houses from rebelling for fear of what would happen to their family member. It was a choice between my twin brother Godric or I, and I preferred to go. I'm sure it astonishes you, but I did not wish to be a lady of the court." Her hand began to stroke her horse's mane, maintaining an upbeat smile despite her thoughts turning to the past. "Having to be twice as good to get half the recognition just made me stronger, so I don't regret my choice. Now, sir, it is my turn for an inquiry. How did someone so young as yourself become the advisor to the crown?"

Edward's adamance regarding Rosaline's happiness set the redhead at ease, doubts having risen in her mind as to whether the princess was just spending time with her out of obligation. A warmth bubbled up in her chest as it sunk in that Rosie was giving her attention that she ordinarily wouldn't have. While making her feel special, it also confused the knight. Did that mean that maybe Rosie felt the same attraction, or was she seeking a friend since she didn't have many at the castle? There wasn't anything greatly unique and awe-inspiring about Gwynyffer, though she did grant that she was a novelty as a woman warrior. That thought sobered her hopes and dreams.

Geoffrey gave a nod of his head, glad that at least the boy had seemed to be aware of the moral complications. If he was prepared for it, then all was well. "As long as you're prepared, then you will be fine. You'll make a fine knight as long as you stick to your convictions." Geoffrey didn't believe that on his own the boy would be a threat to the kingdom, but he was steadfast in his loyalty to Frederick. It remained to be seen just how far that loyalty could be pushed. He was going to keep an eye on Andrew. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Andrew. Was there anywhere else in the castle you needed help finding?"

 

[PicaPirate]

Frederick gave a frown when Andrew was not to be seen, but he was a diligent boy so was hopefully looking for more information on Emile. He better be. On that topic, the kerfuffle at the Hasard household had reached his own ears too and made the entire situation more interesting than it already was. Well this could potentially mean a lot. Either way, he went back to his room and sat on a chair, thinking about his next moves. With the tournament upcoming, there was plenty to keep them busy. He felt an unease in the upcoming future, that something would happen outside of his powers. Well, for now he waited for Andrew.

 

[Misty Gray]

"You know, I think I will point him out to you," Edward cheekily replied. He then observed Gwyn with her horse and smiled. He liked people who showed such kindness towards animals. It was a wonderful trait in a person.

Edward listened as the knight told him about her history. He often wondered how different his life would have been had his father not been the king's advisor before him. Edward would have been a different man, but from where he was now he couldn't picture himself as a knight. His path in life had been much different to Geoffrey's. He met Gwyn's story with genuine interest. He was already aware of the Elfian practice, but it was interesting to hear it coming from one of their knights directly. "It sounds to me like you made the right choice, Gwynyffer. To have accomplished as much as you have proves you are a spirited fighter," he commended her.

When asked how he ended up as Leo's advisor, Edward smiled. "My father was the king's advisor before me. When I was a boy, my father was often sent on voyages and assignments, and he always took me with him. My father taught me everything he knew. If I wasn't away exploring and at sea recording the ships logs, I was here studying." He remembered being a kid in the castle, before Rosie and Josie were even born. He supposed he'd spent more time here than at his family's manor with his own mother and sisters, which made the royals so precious to him. "My father passed away almost a decade ago, and he told me it had already been decided by the king that I would replace him. I realised my entire life before then was in preparation for me to one day become the king's advisor. I just don't think anyone expected my father to die so soon." Edward looked away for a moment as his thoughts turned darker. When he died, his father was around the same age as Leo is now, and once again a father figure was going to die too soon. He knew he had to push such thoughts aside for now. "So, if you ever need to know anything about this castle and its history, you can ask me. I've spent a long time studying it," he said, with a warm smile.

Andrew smiled at Geoffrey when he said he could make a fine knight. When asked if there was anywhere he needed help finding, Andrew shook his head. He had probably seen the things he was meant to see, for now. "No, thank you. I should probably return inside--" he began, freezing as his eyes opened wider. "Oh, shoot! I really do have to get back inside, else I'll lose my head!" he exclaimed. He gave the quickest of bows to the knight before rushing away towards the castle entrance. He wasn't sure how long he'd been outside, but it felt longer than it should have been. Hopefully Frederick had been busy elsewhere.

Andrew stood outside the prince's room and straightened himself out as he awaited permission to enter. When he stepped inside, he closed the door and stood a few feet away from it. "I've mentioned the tournament to a number of people, Sir," he confirmed. "I also spoke with the maid about Emile Hasard. She couldn't tell me much more, Sir. Although, she has heard talk that Emile was seen grabbing Princess Bramble's arm yesterday evening, but nobody knows why he wasn't being nice." Andrew frowned as he thought of how little information he'd managed to find out.​

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

The moment Bramble stepped back into the palace Cartier joined her at her side in an instant. Bramble's pace was fast as she rushed through the entrance hall. Her face was grim and set in stone, a blazing determination in them. Cartier jogged to catch up, Bramble ignored the pain at her side.

"Well, what did you find?" Bramble asked in a low, strained voice. Her pace slowed, numbing the pain at her side. She swayed and Cartier grabbed her arm to steady her, she resisted the urge to go raise an eyebrow at this.

"You should've listened to-" Cartier stopped his scolding as Frederick came into sight, before dissapearing into his room. She'd have to speak to him later. When she wasn't about to faint, and he wasn't snooping in places he certainly didn't belong.

Bramble's eyes followed Andrew as he sped into Frederick's room in a hurry. Her eyes narrowed with suspicion, with Cartier on her heels, she crept up to the wooden door and listened with practiced stealth, not a sound was heard as she caught Andrew's report, and what she heard made her heart pulse and blood boil.

Emile grabbing her arm the day earlier had not only brought attention to him, but her as well. If Frederick started investigating her, things were about to take an ugly turn indeed. Not only was she majorly wounded, but she had a drugged out man stuffed in her wardrobe, Emile blackmailing her, and her Thief identity about to be exposed. Shaking her head, she turned and stormed away from the door, where Cartier remained to continue to eavesdrop. Bramble made it back to her room, and with a sigh, collapsed unto her bed.
​

Misty Gray PicaPirate

 

[redroseknight]

"Smooth, Gwyn, real smooth." The redhead grumbled to herself as she latched on the last bit of her armor, double checking herself in the mirror to make sure that she looked presentable. Flawless even. Her curly hair had been brushed, but it still maintained its usual free will. Nothing short of a miracle would ever change that. The knight sighed heavily and placed her forehead against mirror, taking solace from the cool glass. "I almost kissed her..I should have..no, no I shouldn't have." When it came to war, Gwynyffer knew exactly where she needed to be to inflict the most damage. She could find her enemy's weak point in his armor or the flaw in his stance. Love? This was so much more tricky than any fray she had entered, and it had the potential to be just as deadly if she made a mistake.

"If I thought I was being subtle before, that is over. She didn't seem angry with me when we parted, so the worst that will happen is she avoids me." The thought of that sent a piercing pain through her chest, but she did her best to ignore the feeling as she made her way out of the room. All of the knights were gathering for the beginning of the festival in order to create a parade for the people so that the common folk could choose which knight they wished to cheer for. They were also being chosen by the noble ladies as to who would be riding in their honor.

"I'm sure some lady will feel sympathy for you and allow you to ride in her honor," one knight guffawed to Gwyn as she took her place alongside her horse.

"I thank you for your concern, my lord, but I can also ride for my own honor." Angered by her own emotional turmoil, the words were said with quite a bit more venom than was usual from the redhead.

"We are here to compete in friendly combat. Let us keep it that way," Geoffrey's voice boomed, the large, armored knight already sitting atop his horse. Though he obviously had no love for an Elfian knight, he also didn't enjoy seeing her be picked on by the other knights. Geoffrey took his vow of chivalry very seriously.

"I only say it in jest, of course, Sir Geoffrey. And what lady has given her favor to you?" the knight asked, now turning his attention to Geoffrey. Geoffrey did not often compete in these events, reserving his strength for true combat, so he was not among the favorite knights of the kingdom.

"I have received no favor, the same as you. I would suggest readying yourself for combat rather than boasting.'

Geoffrey turned his horse and heaved a sigh. This was another reason he didn't compete; the popularity contest among the younger knights was exhausting.

 

[Jess Buck]

Spoiler: Rosie's Attire

Rosie's head was reeling as she continued to replay her morning ride with Gwynyffer. They had ridden out to the forests behind the castle and came upon a clearing with a large pond. They had stopped to let their horses rest and drink and to have a nice conversation, seeing there hadn't been much on the ride. Gwynyffer had allowed Rosie to sketch her and when Gwynyffer leaned in to see the sketch...Rosie was snapped back to reality by a harsh tug on her corset by Ms. Adler. She winced and signed to her handmaiden.
"I believe that is quite tight enough!" Ms. Adler chuckled and apologized.
"Pardon me Milady, just want to make sure you look lovely for that knight friend of yours." Rosie blushed as her thoughts were brought back to Gwynyffer. How her green eyes made Rosie want to melt and her smile sent Rosie to the heavens. She went over to her vanity and sat down so Ms. Adler could work on her hair.
"Did you send for Amelia?" Ms. Adler nodded
"Yes your highness, she should be here any minute." Rosie took a deep breath as she stared herself down in the mirror.
"Ms. Adler, have a servant fetch me a rose." Ms. Alder knew what Rosie meant and she beamed as she called for a servant to run down to the gardens. "A red one" She added. Ms. Adler nodded.
"Yes Princess, someone is on their way now." Rosie smiled and turned her head as she saw Amelia come in. She stood and greeted the servant girl.
"Thank you again Amelia, you truly are a god sent." Amelia blushed and gave a curtsy to her Princess.
"It is my honor your Highness." She signed to Ms. Alder.
"Ms. Adler, if you would, please have a few nicer dresses made for Amelia, when we go to proper events I'd like her to look nice." Amelia was floored.
"No mam' I appreciate your kindness but it is truly unnecessary." Rosie smiled
"Amelia please. You are doing me a great service by becoming my translator on top of your other duties. Let me show you my gratitude." Amelia bowed deeply. Rosie took a deep breath. "I suppose we ought to be getting down to the festival."

Rosie and Amelia made their way to the festival, a single red Rose in hand. Rosie politely greeted a few dignitaries and other such important diplomatic people before making her way down to where the knights were gathering. Her heart leapt in her chest upon seeing the fiery red mane of who could only be Gwynyffer. She fidgeted nervously and Amelia gave her a reassuring smile.
"Relax Milady. You'll be fine." Rosie smiled and nodded to Amelia in thanks. The two made their way over to the large group of knights and Rosie felt all eyes on her as she passed each and every one of them before approaching Gwynyffer. She extended the Rose to Gwynyffer and Amelia spoke for her.
"Her Highness Princess Rosaline wishes for you to accept this rose and ride in her honor."

redroseknight

 

[redroseknight]

I only have to be here for a short time now, then I can show these fools why they should respect a lady. It is probably a good thing, though, that we wear such thick helms on the battlefield. It will be easier for us to maintain friendly sport without thinking of who we killed the last we met.

Gwynyffer was feeling much more testy than usual, so she busied herself with making sure that the flag bearing her family crest of a golden fox on a field of green was in order. It was while she was doing this that she noted that silence hung over the previously loud, chatty knights. Though grateful for the lack of noise, she turned to see what was going on. Her mouth immediately felt dry and the knight snapped to perfect posture as soon as she saw the blue eyes she couldn't get out of her mind. She couldn't breathe as Rosie and Amelia approached, her heart beat gaining speed when she realized that she had been worrying about the worst case scenario for nothing.

Time seemed to stop as she was offered the rose, and she had to remind herself how to breathe again. It was as if just being in Rosie's presence was too much for her brain to handle, so it stopped working for a moment. With her gaze meeting Rosie's, she reached out and accepted the rose.

"I accept, your highness, with utmost humility. My victory is assured with your favor giving me strength." It was astounding how swiftly Gwynyffer's mood did change! She brought the rose to her lips before securing it to the green cloak hanging about her shoulders. There were quiet, agitated whispers from some of the Argonian knights who felt insulted that the princess had chosen an Elfian knight, the lady knight at that! She had managed to humiliate a few of them without having even lifted a lance; her prince was bound to be proud.

"Have you need of an escort, my lady?" she offered, the knight feeling desperate to remain in her company even just a second longer. Just being with Rosie was so warm and comforting, like the warmth of the sun on a spring afternoon. But she was aware that it would be in her personal best interests to not put herself in such a position of temptation. She had been able to show restraint once, but only barely. Gwyn adored the younger princess, and she was terrified of losing her.

Gwynyffer never had been able to follow the path of least resistance.

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Bramble had spent most of the day in bed. Ms. Graybe tended to her and Brambke sent word to her sisters that she was ill. Cartier was busy spying on Frederick and Andrew and she knew Emile was out there somewhere, watching and observing. With any luck, he was with his men and following the trail west still, but she knew it was unfortunately, very unlikely. She knew she wouldn't be able to climb out and steal for more then a few weeks with her injuries. The last thing she wanted to do was tear her stitches. It largely disappointed her, but perhaps it was better that way, divert Frederick's suspicion away from her.

Bramble winced as Ms. Graybe rolled her over gently and undid more bloody bandages, throwing them into the fire and wrapping new bandaging around her waist. The stitching was still nearly intact, and Damon was still drugged out in her closet, as far as she knew. She didn't dare open the wardrobe and gaze upon his face. Ms. Graybe got up and opened the drapes, basking her room in warm sunlight, crisp, fresh air hit her as Graybe opened her bedroom window, and Bramble groaned.

The festives were starting. ​

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Spoiler

Analise needed to get herself presentable for her future husband and all of her people. For the moment, she didn't need to worry about her sisters. She would send Geoffrey on that later on but for now, she should at least try and enjoy the festivites. Thinking about him made her smile but she had to snap out of it. For the time being, she would think about her people and how long it had been since they ever had a festival. She needed this and so did her people. Something to liven their spirits up about the converging of kingdoms was very much needed. The trek back to her room was a long one, being all the way in the garden. Sometimes she wished she could just teleport, or even use her tunnels the way she wanted without getting caught. Except, that was her dirty little secret and she wanted to keep it that way, much like the one about Edward. A smile crept on her lips yet again thinking about Edward before it turned into a frown. There she was thinking about guys again, how annoying. She just needed to get to her room so she could change and she would be fine.

Just as she neared her room, word was sent that her sister was ill. So, there was something up with the sneaky little bugger. She didn't even want to stress herself to think about what was really wrong with the girl. At the moment, she decided, there was no point. She slowly put on her second dress of the day before leaving her room, seeking out Geoffrey. It would be put on hold for the moment, as she was instructed the festival would begin soon and she was to be by her father's side. Then it hit her all over again that he was sick, that he was dying, that he had a reason for all of this. She had to stop and lean against the wall, hand over her heart, as she could feel it breaking. She felt the same thing when she was told she would have to marry Frederick. Her composure wouldn't break, it couldn't. So as she put herself together, she continued walking until she spotted her father. Her emotions took over and she hugged him, for the first time in a long time.

The hug took Leo by surprise, but he could guess that Edward had told her the truth. It felt nice to hold his daughter again. "I assume Edward told you the truth, hm?" He whispered into her ear. She could only nod her head before pulling away from him. "Look, we will talk about all of that later." She told him as she started fixing up his jacket. It was strange, that him being close to death made her want to be loving towards and caring towards him. They both regretted that it took something like this to even bring them some type of close together. "Anyway, your daughter will not be joining us today, I think. She's sick. But not to worry, she should be fine." She told him, knowing how sicknesses in her family usually led to worse things. "And the younger two should be around here somewhere."​

 

[Misty Gray]

Once Edward had finished speaking with Gwyn, he decided to return to his room to collect his thoughts for a time. He needed to get through the festivities and the tournament with a smile on his face, despite everything that was happening around him. He would have to stand by in the background whilst the king and Ana entertained Frederick. All the while, Edward would be thinking of his feelings for the princess and his concern for the king's condition. Thinking about Ana made him remember the night before and that was at least enough to bring a fond smile to his face. He had no idea how he was going to overcome these strong feelings in the long term, but right now he just wanted to hold her again. This wedding must not happen.

Edward was feeling a little more comfortable about Rosie and the knight since he spoke with Gwyn, though he was still sure there was more going on for the princess to be acting a little out of character. He knew Josie was fine. Bramble still concerned him and he'd not spoken with her much for a couple of days. Hearing Bramble was sick in her room, Edward made his way there to spend some time with her. After knocking on the door and being permitted entry, he stepped inside and asked for anyone else, including Ms Graybe, to leave. It wasn't that he intended on sharing any secrets or didn't trust the woman, but he just wanted a chat without others standing over their shoulders all the time.

"What is ailing our young Bramble?" he curiously asked the princess. He grabbed a seat and sat down before continuing. "You'll do anything to get out of watching the tournament with the Elfians... I wish I'd thought of it first," he joked.​

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

The moment the knock sounded on the door, Bramble shot straight up in bed, alarmed. Ms. Graybe shot her a withering glare as fresh blood leaked into the bandages from Bramble's movement. Bramble returned the look with a scowl before she pulled the sheets higher over herself as Ms. Graybe opened the door to show Edward. Bramble felt the internal alarms ticking. She loved Edward, in a way, he'd been like an older brother to her. But he was also an advisor, and she was terrible at lying to the people she cared about. But she had to, especially now. Her eyes followed Ms. Graybe as she left, wondering why Frederick had dismissed the woman. But with Ms. Graybe gone, it'd be a lot harder to hide to giant diagonal cut along her waist, she'd never been more grateful to bedsheets and a nightgown until now.

Thankfully, she knew just how to avoid the question. Bramble's grin was full of mischief as she replied, "Well don't you look nice!" Her grin widened and her eyes narrowed as she sat further up in bed. "Your awfully chipper, little less doom and gloom, little more pep in your step!" There was a spark in her blue eyes as she said, "Would this have to do with you sleeping with Ana?" Bramble teased, knowing it's divert the attention away from herself.

​

Misty Gray

 

[Jess Buck]

​

As tempting as Gwynyffer's offer to escort her to her seat was, Rosie knew they had already spent too much time together that morning. Not to mention the fact that Rosie just asked the knight to ride in her honor. For now, she would have to bid the knight farewell.
"I appreciate your offer Lady Gwynyffer, however I have a few dignitaries I still need to speak with before I sit down to watch the tournament. I bid you good luck and I hope to see you come out on top." As she signed Amelia spoke for her. Rosie gave polite nods to the other knights as she left the area, but before leaving she turned her head to look back at Gwynyffer one more time. Blue eyes met with Green ones and Rosie felt her heart burst. She reluctantly looked away as she and Amelia continued to make their way over to nobles.

As Rosie spoke to the nobles she realized how much she had wished she'd taken Gwynyffer's offer. The conversations were dreadfully dull and Rosie wanted nothing more than to run down to where the knights were and jump into Gwynyffer's arms. Her daydreaming was interrupted by seeing her Father and Ana approach the festival. She bid the noble farewell and quickly made her way over to her family.
"Ana you look beautiful! And father you look dashing as ever." She told them. Amelia took a step back, considering that the royal family didn't need her to translate. Being in the presence of so many Royals was quite overwhelming for the poor servant girl.


Melanin-Gxdess

 

[Misty Gray]

Edward noticed that instead of answering his question, Bramble grinned at him and changed the subject. "Excuse me?" he asked, feigning offence. "Don't I always look nice?" He grinned when she noted he was in raised good spirits. Before he could make any comment on that, she mentioned Ana and made it clear she knew what had happened the previous night. "What?" he asked, almost a whisper, as he was taken by surprise. The smile left his face for a moment and so did the colour. This wasn't something he wanted anyone else to learn, not considering the consequences should it reach Frederick's ears. He cleared his throat and allowed a very faint smile to creep on his lips, despite his heart almost falling into his stomach. "It was more of a nap, Bramble. We were tired and I..." he began, before silencing himself and shaking his head. "Now where did you even hear such a thing?" he asked. "Who else knows this?"
​

Ms. Sparrow

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Bramble couldn't help but feel a bit of slight amusement. Watching the color drain from Edwards face? Priceless. She fell back unto the bed with an exaggerated sigh. "Don't worry dear Eddy," she exhaled, placing her hands behind her head. "I haven't told a single soul," Bramble threw up her arms. "So don't worry, your secret lover is safe from being exposed."

Bramble sighed and sank further into her bed, wincing as she did so. "I didn't hear it, more like.. saw it," she grinned. "No, I won't tell anyone. No nobody else knows. And NO I know how much this needs to be kept a secret." She knew if word got out to Frederick it could put them in a very bad situation indeed. Especially Edward. The King would never forgive him for jeapordizing the marriage. Now it came down to where the relationship would go from there. Would Ana pursue him? If so it'd only put everything at risk.

"Now, why are you here?" Bramble asked with an arched eyebrow. "I know your not here to plant peach trees, and we both know I'm not sick." She crossed her ark, wincing as she sat up in bed again.
​

Misty Gray

​

 

[Misty Gray]

Edward rubbed his forehead and let out an exasperated sigh. This situation wasn't as amusing as Bramble seemed to be finding it. "Nothing happened. There's no secret lover. Not in the way you're suggesting." He couldn't let Ana get in trouble because of his own feelings. They may have fallen asleep in each others arms, but Edward knew better than to assume she loved him in return. He'd just told her that her father was dying and for all he knew the 'moment' they shared was because she needed consoling. "I think it's one-sided. I told your sister I love her. I had to tell her the truth, but she hasn't done anything, Bramble." If this got out he would have to take full blame, for the sake of Ana and the kingdom. "I'd appreciate it if you didn't tell anyone. Despite this whole big Eflian problem, I quite like being alive and free."

He raised his eyebrows when Bramble asked why he'd come to see her. "You know, you really have a way with people, Bramble," he sarcastically told her. "I just wanted to see you. We haven't spoken much in days and you were quite upset when you found out about Ana's engagement. When I heard you were sick I figured you might want some company. I know I'm not a cute young guard, but I at least thought you'd be vaguely pleased with my company." He smirked. "So why are you pretending to be sick?" he asked, not at all surprised. He noticed her wince and he leaned forward in his seat. "What's really wrong? Are you hurt?" he said, his voice concerned.​

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Bramble snorted in disbelief as Edward said it was one sided. One sided? ONE SIDED?! She nearly burst out laughing. Right. Bramble nodded in disbelief. "Uh huh, and Frederick's a saint." Bramble said sarcastically before adding, "If it was one sided, Ana wouldn't be as chipper as you. She was practically flying on air." She said in a flat, bored tone as if this wasn't news.

She grinned as Edward told her she had a way with people, putting her hand to her heart and drugging an innocent expression as if flattered. She pressed her lips thinly together as he mentioned the engagement. A topic that made her want to explode into another tantrum from just the thought of that, she felt her fingers dig into the covers. Her eyes flicked down to her bruised wrists and she instantly shoved them into her blankets. Her gaze became alarmed as he mentioned what had to only be Lucas and instantly shot back up to Edward to see him smirking. She scowled, turning slightly pink from anger and embarrassment.

Bramble froze for a split second as he mentioned her being injured, before her expression quickly went to a sheepish smile. "Just a wee bit hungover, but don't tell the King, he'll go spar if he found out I got slightly drunk." She lied guiltily as if ashamed she'd gotten hungover. When she hadn't at all. She didn't have much time to enjoy herself while being blackmailed by Emile Hasard.
​

Misty Gray

 

[Misty Gray]

When Bramble suggested Edward's feelings weren't one-sided, an uncontrollable smile appeared on his lips. "She's chipper?!" he happily asked, before quickly reigning himself in and removing his smile. "I mean... This has to stay a secret."

"Drunk, eh?" he began to tease. "How quickly has little Bramble grown up? I won't tell him. You're entitled to a little fun once in a while, especially at a palace party." He didn't see a problem with the girl getting drunk within the safety of the castle walls. As long as she wasn't causing any trouble. "But are you really planning on spending all day in bed? Do I really have to turn up to this festival malarkey alone?" he asked, obviously pretending to sound upset.​

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Bramble's wry grin widened at Edwards failed suppressed smile. Love. For a brief moment she wondered what it'd be like to fall in love and the thought terrified her so her mind quickly drifted to more important subjects. Though for some reason Lucas weighed on her thoughts, drifting in the back of her mind like a whispered name. She shook the feeling away. Love was pointless, painful and stupid. Something she didn't need. Didn't want.

Bramble exhaled from relief as Edward said he wouldn't tell she was hungover. Grateful he'd believed the lie. She hated lying to everyone, she really did, but she'd never be able to continue with stealing if she told anyone, so she couldn't. Especially with Frederick and Emile.

Bramble pressed her hand to her forehead with mock exaggeration as Edward pretended to be upset. "Oh how will you ever survive?" Bramble replied with a breathless tone full of mock fear. "You'll have to eat good food, watch delightful entertainment, see Ana at her finest," she paused, smirking at Edward with a devilish grin, "I pity you Eddy." She said sarcastically.

Before she could open her mouth to say anymore and say she'd be at least attending dinner, a loud but quick knock at her bedroom door sent Bramble jumping up in bed, she sat up way to quickly, back straight. The quick movement was to much and her vision spun, the pain at her side seared and she shut her eyes tight to stop the room from moving, her hands instantly flying to her head and side, after a moment her eyes snapped open, angered to be startled in such away. She was especially on high alert.

"Who the devil--Give me a damn minute!" Bramble snapped at the closed door angrily, her face was pale and her voice strained, as if taxed to the sudden point of illness. She knew Cartier could wait a couple minutes until Edward left.

She smiled at Edward with her usual hint of wryness. "I believe you have a ghastly festival to attend?" She said with an raised eyebrow, slowly falling back down unto the bed. "Oh! And make sure Ana doesn't get drunk. She does that when she's having too much fun and I don't want her "accidentally" shoving Frederick down a flight of stairs." Bramble joked, a bit of her normal color returning to her cheeks.
​

Misty Gray

 

[Misty Gray]

When Bramble mocked him about his apprehension for attending the festivities, he sighed. "Great food, entertainment and your wonderful sister... Plus, a giant muscular Elfian elephant in the room. Yayyy!" he sarcastically commented, but managed a small smile.

When Bramble almost jumped out of her skin at the knocking on the door, Edward briefly raised an eyebrow. He wasn't an idiot and he knew there was something she wasn't telling him. But he knew he wasn't going to get anything out of her now, especially not with the arrival of whoever was knocking at the door.

Bramble made it clear she wanted the advisor to leave, so he got up to his feet. "You really know how to make a guy feel welcome," he joked. "If I don't see you suffering at the festival later, I'm coming back here to pester you," he playfully warned her. When she made her comment about Ana pushing Frederick down the stairs, Edward had to stop himself from making any sort of unprofessional comment that could land him in bother. Of course he wouldn't want the prince to be pushed down the stairs by Ana, but the thought still humored him a little. "Look after yourself, Bramble," he called out as he left her room.

Once outside, Edward saw Ana and the king in the distance. The dress she was wearing managed to make her look even more beautiful than she did last night. He could only ask himself how she managed to keep doing that? He wasn't ready to join them in their places yet. Instead, he detoured to where the knights where so he could wish his friend luck.

As he neared the knights, he heard chatter which piqued his interest. Apparently, Rosie had asked Gwyn to ride in her honour. He wondered what the story there was and hoped her gesture to the Elfian kingdom didn't upset the Algonian knights too much. It seemed like the whole palace was going mad - not excluding himself!

"Geoffrey!" he called out as he approached his friend. "Are you ready for the tournament?" he asked. He then looked towards where Gwyn was and let out a deep breath. "I've just overheard some very unhappy knights grumbling about Rosie's gesture. Oh, what a fun day!" he said, shaking his head.​

 

[redroseknight]

Gwynyffer understood the reasoning for the princess's declining of her offer, but that didn't stop her from feeling disappointed. If she could, she would have gladly spent every moment at the young princess's side. Alas, partly due to the tension between their kingdom and partly due to the taboo nature of their attraction to one another, it couldn't be so. She gave a bow and watched as Rosie walked away, unable to tear her gaze from Rosie's retreating figure. The last look she gave her stuck with the knight, and she couldn't fight the smile that came to her lips so easily when the princess was involved.

Face it, Gwyn. You're in love with the princess of Argonia. Couldn't have fallen for a maiden of lesser social standing, now could you?

She took in a deep breath and patted her horse, the voices of the knights around her fading completely. While she had been wanting to display her skill before, now she was even more determined to dominate in the list. She wasn't riding just for her own pride and to showcase Elfian's martial prowess; her lady's honor was now on the line. And Gwynyffer was not about to disappoint.

Geoffrey had been readying his own flag, his family's coat of arms a silver hound on a field of blue. Colors and emblems of loyalty that suited the noble knight quite well. He looked up from his task to see his friend approaching and chuckled. "Sir Alexander was instigating trouble as usual, and Sir Conner is absolutely livid to have been passed over for, and I quote, 'some Elfian wench who probably doesn't know which end of a lance to hold'." Usually keeping to himself and thus not being viewed as a rival for the attention of any ladies of court, Geoffrey personally found amusement in their outrage. If it had been anyone but the favored knight of the prince of Elfian, Geoffrey would have been happy.

"For all of the tournaments that we have hosted, Princess Rosaline has never showed the slightest interest in the courtly ritual of granting her favor. Honestly, I'm a bit baffled as to why now. I haven't heard anything sinister from the other knights regarding her, but have you discovered anything?" He had overheard the other knights talking about some rumors regarding the lady knight and some lady of the Elfian court, but he kept those rumors to himself. At least until he heard if Edward discovered anything that would give his concerns some substance rather than just being overprotective of the younger girl. Besides, those rumors might have just been from wounded pride if the woman was able to defeat the men in what they viewed as their own game.

"I have heard that Princess Bramble is feeling ill. Tell me, Edward, how fares she?" he asked, expression dark. He worried that his observation of the princess from the day before had more to it than he had originally given credence, especially since he was hearing more rumors with Emile's name attached to it.

 

[Misty Gray]

Edward couldn't help but smirk when Geoffrey spoke about the two knights. "Why am I not surprised?" he scoffed. "The problem with men like Sir Conner is they have too much pride and they fall harder when their confidence is knocked."

The advisor listened as his friend spoke about Rosie's out of character behaviour and when asked if he'd discovered anything about Gwyn, he nodded. "I spoke with Gwynyffer for a short time. She seems genuine and I quite enjoyed speaking with her. It doesn't stop me worrying about what she would do if Frederick commanded anything of her that could harm Rosie or her sisters." He looked past Geoffrey and to nothing specific in the distance. It was clear there was something else going around in Edward's mind. He'd studied Rosie and Gwyn over the last day, and now heard about the princesses gesture towards the lady knight. He looked awkwardly to his friend before eventually speaking again. "I believe we've both been living long enough to know of the different ways of looking at a person. Take how I look at you. You're my friend and I like you as a friend. Now, take Ana: if you were to observe me speaking privately with Ana, my body language and facial expression would tell a very different story to when I'm speaking with you. I care for both of you, but I imagine even I can't hide the way I look at Ana." He shook his head. "Long story short and I may well be mistaken... I've seen Rosie and Gwynyffer looking at each other differently to how friends look at each other."

When Geoffrey mentioned Bramble, Edward let out an exhausted sign. "Oh, that girl..." he began, shaking his head. "I've just been to see her. She told me she had too much to drink last night and not to tell the king. I won't tell the king that. Besides, I don't think she was being honest with me. I'm concerned there's something else going on with her and I worry if it's something dangerous I will have to involve Ana and her father soon. She'll hate me, but I'm more scared of our King."​

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

"Bad?! Oh no that's not bad! Why don't we just walk right up to Frederick? Ask him for his riches!" Bramble spat sarcastically. She was fuming at the news Cartier had told her of. She paced frantically around her bedroom, picking up a worn out green dancing slipper from the side of the bed and throwing it at the wall. "Damnit!"

Cartier, who had been sheepishly keeping his distance, along with a pondering Ms. Graybe flinched at Bramble's fiery temper. He nervously rubbed his arm. "Bramble plea-"

"What a great load of rot," Bramble said, cutting out any hope of calming her down, Cartier shrunk back away from Bramble as she stoked the fireplace with quick and angry motions. "And what a rot of Emile, spreading rumors about me. Didn't he realize it'd scare the tonsils out of the servants?" She put the firepoker back in the sheath with a ringing clang. "Ana's suspicious, Edwards's probably suspicious. The King will find out. Frederick's bound to investigate. No more stealing. No more freedom." Bramble sighed as this weighed into her soul, staring at the flames in thought, her lips pressed together.

"Your on thin ice child," Ms. Graybe said in a stern tone, before pointing a finger at the bed, "Now sit down before you tear your stitches." But Bramble only shook her head.

"Ms. Graybe," Bramble's tone was calm and cool. Serious and determined as she stared at the flames before meeting Ms. Graybe's gaze, the same fire burned in her eyes. "Get me a red dress. Now." She glanced back at the fire with a smile.

"We've got some festives to attend."

​

 

[redroseknight]

Geoffrey listened to Edward's explanation regarding how his expression changed when he would look to Ana, and Geoffrey wondered briefly if that ever happened to him despite his best efforts. Nay, he decided, he was in far too much control over his emotions to make a mistake like that. And if he had, Edward would have been among the first to notice that. He was the one who knew Geoffrey the best, after all. It took a bit of time to sink in what Edward was implying, then the knight immediately looked toward where Gwynyffer was mounting her steed in preparation for the parade. So those rumors might have had some merit after all. Now the question was: did either of them need to do anything about it. For Geoffrey..his answer was no. Rosie had been more bright and upbeat than he had ever seen her, and if it was because she had found herself attracted to the Elfian knight..well..who was he to judge?

"I'll keep an eye on Lady Gwynyffer to make sure none of the knights try anything unchivalrous to give them an edge over her. Otherwise..I'm just glad Princess Rosaline is happy." Some of his suspicions about the knight were eased if what Edward theorized was true, but he did share his friend's concern. If it came down to having to follow the orders of her prince and protecting Rosie, he was sure that she would have to side with Prince Frederick. "I don't think there would be a delicate and tactful way to caution Princess Rosaline about where Lady Gwynyffer's loyalty lies, however."

If Geoffrey revealed what he knew about Emile threatening the princesses, then he would have to reveal to him that Ana escaped the castle. So he kept that information to himself and nodded. "I am going to approach Lucas about being her sole bodyguard, both out of concern and to perhaps curtail any thoughts she has for mischief. He seems to have a good head on his shoulders, so she should be safe with him there to guard her."

 

[Misty Gray]

"I'd expect no less of you," Edward said as the knight said he would look out for Gwyn with regards to any unchivalrous knights. "Whilst I can't deny my default position is to favour Algonian soldiers, I'd like to know which of them are likely to cause trouble, and I'm sure the king wouldn't abide by any misbehaviours either. I'd side with Gwyn over any of our dishonoruable knights." He sighed. "No, you're right, there wouldn't be a tactful way to warn Rosie. I'll have to have a think about how to approach that!"

Edward agreed with the suggestion of having Lucas as Bramble's bodyguard. He seemed like a nice boy and the advisor was certain the princess wouldn't reject his company. He then looked to Geoffrey as it was the knight's turn to share some findings. "So, what else have you find out?" he asked. The way Edward asked the question would for a moment sound like the advisor knew something Geoffrey hadn't said yet, perhaps briefly making the knight think his friend already knew about the Emile issues he was keeping secret. "I saw you talking to Andrew, the prince's page," he elaborated. "What do you make of the boy?"​