Fantasy Court Of Secrets

[Uasal]

Lady Elizabeth of Leston​

Spoiler

Spoiler

Elizabeth was surprised at first when Lord Eamon offered up his arm for her to take, having half expected the Lord to instead offer his arm to Yersinia. Elizabeth was still quite unsure about the Lady as she had never really spoken to her, of course, a few passing greeting and farewells were exchanged in the halls but aside from this. Well, Elizabeth had no prior experience in dealing with the Lady Yersinia. In fact, she knew very little about her other than she resided in the castle with her Aunt as guardian.

Once outside Elizabeth felt herself relax, the cold air and fragrance of the garden roses working wonders to bring about this change. The Lord Eamon too seemed to be more at ease, his tone of voice was notably different than when he was dancing and he seemed to be in a much closer proximity now that they were out of her brother's sight. However, Elizabeth still had no idea what she could talk about with Lady Yersinia present. Was she humorous? Bashful? Presumptuous? Did she find humour@ in political affairs or in that of scandal? Lord Eamon was well known to Elizabeth at this stage, being within close proximity to herself for around six months now. Therefore she felt as though a conversation with him would be a lot more easily found.

And just as she came to this conclusion, well her thoughts were proven correct. The words the Lord spoke caused a muffled laugh to escape Elizabeth's mouth, the simplicity and brutal honesty of the question to easily spoken by a man of such standard. Elizabeth soon forced herself to look away from the Lord for every time she attempted to return her gaze to his face she found herself laughing with renewed energy.

Once her composure had been regained, Elizabeth returned a bright smile to the Lord's smirk and spoke quietly yet enthusiastically saying:
"The night is young yet the winds have grown strong and so I fear that, with time and this dress as my only protection, I too shall grow but sick with the cold." Elizabeth then motioned for Eamon and the Lady to look out over the gardens "Yet I must say, the roses do look most beautiful when highlighted by the dark hue of night. Would you find yourselves in agreement?"
Trompe lOeil Aio

 

[MJ ._.]

Anna Bella Moor
​

Poor Peter knew that he had been completely noticed as soon as stepped the balcony as heard Lord Brightflame talking about his family to his friends. He dipped his head modestly and left to the younger group to avoid proving Daeron’s suspicious right. How did he know the lord was acting cautiously? Obviously he had lots of time at home to talk about his sister, so why would he bring the old topic up in the middle of a ball plentiful with fresh news and rumors? He had been taking cover behind the most common conversation ever.
In the other group, ladies didn’t care for a drink and Lord Dante had failed to finish his first glass so far. If the knight with shiny armor had joined them, the boy could stay longer with this excuse that he wished to join the army or guards and wanted a few advices from the commander about the path he had to take. It would sound brashly but the knight didn’t come over and the boy had to leave soon. Before going back to hall to collect empty glasses from here and there, he just noticed a pair of girls leaving the lord of north to dance only because he had told them to. It was so common, yet Peter hopped that his grandmother could extract something out of it and be pleased with him.

A few minutes after Peter leaving the hall, the head maid came by Anna to whisper a few words. Anna nodded and watched Astrid and Vex dancing without interest. Getting closer to the queen, she evaluated the situation to speak her opinion lowly in her presence.

“I hope your majesty is enjoying the ball.” Said with her usual soft voice. “This ball is different from those we’ve had recently. I can see new faces showing up to join us for a longer time than we can welcome them… saddens me to say; lord Brightflame has released his vixen and stray. Looking at their faces and manners while knowing how our men are… they’re going to end up in rooms of those close to us tonight, in one way or the other way.” She spoke casually without showing any malice even while calling Vex and Astray vixen and stray dog. “Mostly I’m worried about his highness… but anyone else can be troublesome.” She sighed as thought of prince Theodor taking a lady of north to his chamber. Surely men talked a lot in summer midnights. “Isn’t there a nice way to nullify these old and simple tricks?” She asked, wondering if the queen would approve such relationship to happen. Considering that the prince of crown was an independent man, they had to stop it before happening; else no one could stop prince Theodor.

SandraDeelightful Uasal Nightblade Aio Hell0NHighWater Trompe lOeil Misty Gray

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Almina stood to the sidelines on her own for a few minutes. She was watching and observing her guest. She was wondering if perhaps one of them was the one who tried to poison her. She took another sip of wine as Anna walked up next to her. She was determined to find out who it was that had attempted to poison her. She would not not let them get away with this. She was not going to be taking this lightly. She would not show weakness in her punishment, and she would not show mercy. That was of course, if that really was poison in the wine. If not, that foolish girl would be relieved of her duties and cast out into the streets. But Almina doubted that would be the case.

"I'm enjoying myself very much, thank you, Anna," said Almina. In an annoyed tone, she added, "Other than the part where somebody tried to assassinate me. I intend to find out what substances were in that wine, and I intend to have those responsible executed. I will not be taking this matter lightly, Anna. Mark my words on that."

She thought about her son. She wanted to think if there was a way to stop these dalliances. Whoever he married would most likely not be happy knowing her husband was sneaking around other women. She didn't want whatever girl he married to feel the way Almina had felt throughout a good deal of her marriage. She hoped that she could steer her son away from the direction of his father. She hoped that her son would be a faithful husband to his wife. However, she doubted it.

"I wish I could control him," said Almina softly. "But I cannot. I need to find someone who can. I'll need your help in doing so Anna."

MJ ._.

 

[Divon]

Ricardo Brent
Butler for the Leston Family​

"You call this hurrying? The night's long but my lecturing's longer if you don't get a move on! "Ricardo's rough voice reverberated through the pit-pattering of servant feet; the clattering of glasses and plates on trays, and all other things that's to be served to the Nobles enjoying themselves in the Ballroom.

The room that he was in was a fair distance away from the main commotion, and adjacent to the kitchens. All that were scuttling around here were hands-on peasant servants; with grease on their clothes from carrying trays and trays of food; and if they weren't careful enough, the evidence of their clumsiness stay stained on their clothes, leaving blotches of red, orange, grey, and yellow.

His all-so-generous Queen threw many parties. Indeed these festivities are fanciful, boisterous, and somewhat amusing -- the mess left behind for her Household's mass of servants to clean up were just the same. From his years of serving the Leston family, it no longer surprised him on finding some Noble couples leaving in the break of dawn with their clothes ruffled and loosely hanging from their sweaty bodies and drunken breaths.

"Serve as much as you can. If you're lucky, I'll see if you can smuggle some leftovers for your own needs!" Ricardo announced as he deftly moved between other servants, making sure that he did not cause any of the others to lose balance with what their carrying. He spotted a young maiden of ebony skin and charcoal locks that's been tied haphazardly into a bun, struggling to hold two trays with her hands.

"Child..." He murmured absentmindedly as he ducked underneath a tray of roasted suckling pig, and briskly walked up to her.

"Evangeline, hand that over -- it's mistake waiting to happen if you carry a load that you can't handle."
"No, sir, really I can--"

He silenced her protest with an exaggerated rumbling of his throat and took the tray of wine glasses from her left and the other containing petite looking desserts from her right.

"Find another, girl. You've just begun a few days before and I don't want you leaving on the morrow just because you spilt some red milk on a Noble's precious ball gown." He said not unkindly. Before he could even see her reaction, he already was on the move.

There's no time to waste when a Ball is on, the higher-classes always seem to notice when there's wine or foodstuffs lacking. 'Even to this day I don't get why such folk need so much grub to eat here, when they have plenty back in their own house.'

Ricardo followed the stream of servants that were heading towards the Ballroom. He ended up overtaking a few that weren't as confident as he was with balancing their trays with their hands.

There were a few passages that lead to the main commotion, but this was one was specifically for the servers -- unfortunately it had no windows so it did get a bit stuffy from the smell of sucking pig, fresh bread, trenches of sauce, and other foods that he can't name. He believed that the construction of no windows was on purpose, so none would be distracted with whats going on outside. Or possibly something else more ominous.

The Butler barely managed to squeeze through with another servant before the doors behind him closed. Though it opened as soon as he walked off to his right. He stole a quick glance at the servant that came through and nodded towards her as he noticed it was Evangeline, before returning his attention to a group of Nobles idly standing by.

"Drinks to quench some thirst?" Ricardo asked politely, as he offered the tray that held an array of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

When one of them glanced him over, his posture straightened and he felt a bead of sweat form on his exposed forehead. Time never did lessen the pressured feeling that he experiences every time a Noble's gaze is upon him, especially if he's not familiar with them.

"Our throats are well quenched." The taller man stated simply then abruptly looked away. Ricardo nodded meekly, taking the hint, and moved a few steps back.

Without thinking his feet moved forward and he began looking for the next batch of Nobles to serve. It was a well-practised routine and a simple one, he believed.
Walk around, serve what they want, and walk some more.
If he explains to another on what he does that way, it would seem miserably boring and unsatisfying. But really it wasn't -- not to Ricardo. Oh the things he hears is what makes this "simple" serving job more interesting...

coding; allrightsreserved deer

[Click me]

Location: Ballroom
Scenario: Serving drinks && desserts [OPEN TO INTERACTION]
Tags: None at the moment

 

[MJ ._.]

Anna Bella Moor
​

Queen’s not pleased demeanor clenched her servant’s heart slightly. Anna hadn’t felt a faint tremble in her chest due to her pure emotions for her majesty but mostly since spoiling her mood was a lethal mistake for the lady waiting. She never intended to appear in Almina’s eyes as an ignorant woman who had no concern for her mistress’s safety; she only didn’t want to let their concern to be read from their faces. They had to keep the façade glorious and that was what she believed the queen would do, while she was wrong and Almina was too bitter about the incident to pretend well being. By the way, she couldn’t take her words back and didn’t like to try to change them like a miserable bootlicker, so kept up with the conversation more as a confidential lady than a servant, which required more honesty and boldness. This manner wasn’t the best choice during events like balls but was frequently used during her daily duties, when no one would see or care about how the queen would treat her lady in waiting. The reason was that she thought most of courtiers would hate anyone the queen could like.
“About that maid…” She spoke in whisper. “I can’t be sure until the poison in her glass is examined... but there is a probability that the substance in the said glass isn’t a lethal poison. Since no one in this court is ignorant enough to use such foolish method for assassination, it might be a warning… thus, the culprits will show up sooner or later to declare their demands…” She said and wondered if the objective of opponent had been shattering queen’s confidence. “I’m sure fateful royal guards are going to solve it before sunrise.” She assured the queen and her bright smile surfaced again. “That’s why, your majesty mustn’t let it ruin her grace’s joy.”
After soothing the furious governing lady of the nation, she got the chance to have a share in groove of most probable king of future. “My help, your majesty? I should be the wisest servant of history to manage it… ” She believed that Theodor's problem was with upbringing and it was too late to be worried about controlling him. They could only be careful about courtesans around him. “I’ll do my best to be as smart as my queen demands.” She answered her request delicately. “In particular for tonight, maids can cause a little trouble for those unwelcome tempers trying to approach his majesty… just if my queen allows that to happen.” She suggested innocently as if no sly approaches was being discussed.
SandraDeelightful

 

[Slade]

“I was just defending your honour, commander.” Mathias raised his arm in an exaggerated salute, refusing to behave even as Hollenworth shot him a warning look -- the best he could muster anyway, given that his face was obscured behind his helm.

Of course, it was probably not the smartest idea to provoke the ire of their relatively new leader -- at least Barley was an easy pick, having no true connections to turn to -- though Mathias had always been curious how much devilry he could get away with before his uncle refused to save him. “You know me, sir, always concerned about your health, that’s all.”

“Apologies, commander. I was only just informed of the situation myself.” Hollenworth kept his grasp on the shaking servant tight. “It was Sir Clodomir who had caught her in the act. He asked me to escort this woman to the dungeon -- unless you would like to interrogate her first?”

The simpering woman buried her face in her hands. Over a decade of honest, untiring service to the crown, and it had all come crashing down to this. It didn’t help that these men continued to talk about her as if she wasn’t even there. “My … my lord, I can’t. I can’t. Please. I can't say anything. Forgive me.” She broke into tiny, sobbing fits, her words nearly incomprehensible under hastened breath. “They’ll hurt my family, they will!”

“Shall I get the old man, then, commander?” Mathias turned his head towards Therin, seemingly unaffected by the woman’s dramatic display. “I believe I saw him serving drinks around the ballroom a few moments ago.”

Hell0NHighWater

Sir Mathias Wolfe

Royal Guard

​

 

[Nightblade]

Daeron

Daeron drained his glass and gave it to the young lad before making his way inside. Folding his arms, he surveyed the room again. The party was in the beginnings of winding down for some people. He could see the queen surveying the ball looking serene and graceful but the whispers to the maids did not go un-noticed.

Turning his attention to Astrid and Vex he saw them spinning on the floor, Vex looking anything but pleased, while Astrid looked to be having a good time. Deciding on his next course of action, he would need the prince to turn his eye to Astrid, but how to do that was the question.

Deciding he would retire for the evening, he began to weave his way around the main dance floor. As he moved he was thinking of how he might find someone to warm his bed for the night. Moving through the crowd, he found himself narrowing in on one of the guards.

Moving towards the doors, he passed the man a discreet note to ensure he would meet with him...


​

MJ ._.
Slade

Astrid

Astrid had been thoroughly enjoying the ball, twirling around the ballroom like she did not have a care in the world. While her friend Vex was not much of a dancer, the fact that she could not dance but joined Astrid on the floor anyway.

As she saw Daeron leaving the room, she knew he did not care much for dances like this but knew he was better of showing his face. As she met the eyes of the prince, she found herself stopped. She kept his stare for a few moments.​

Misty Gray

​

 

[Slade]

Hmm? A note from one of the nobles? And one of those strangely-dressed ones from the North no less? Mathias raised an eyebrow, intrigued beyond words, reading the missive through the narrow slits of his iron helmet. He bit his lip in a fruitless attempt to suppress a dimpled smirk.

Ah, hells, what was the point? It wasn’t like anyone could see his face through the helmet, was it? Yes, good point. In one smooth move, Mathias removed the helmet and carried it under his arm, shaking his head slightly as his messy black curls had become a touch flattened against the heat of his helmet. He looked over his shoulder then, meeting the gaze of the strange man in furs, and offered a half-nod as his only reply.

About time something in this bloody party finally went right. If Mathias played his cards right, Reynolds might instead end up the one buying him drinks tomorrow.

With the strange turn of events, the guard suddenly found himself hit with a jolt of energy -- urgency, even. In his defence, the bloody Queen was just moments away from being poisoned, wasn’t she? Yes, yes. There were all the reasons to make haste, and then some.

His eyes were quick to spot the skinny blonde man walking around the ballroom. Not a feat by any means, given that Mathias’ gaze was naturally drawn to alcohol. Weaving through the litters of tipsy nobles and exhausted servants, he finally found his place beside Ricardo.

“Brent, my friend, my mate, the man of the hour,” he said, flashing the man a nonchalant grin, almost as if nothing serious had happened, and here he was, just another guard shirking his duties. “Therin sent me for you. He sounded very serious and brooding, but to be fair, does he ever not?” With his free hand, Mathias swiped a glass of red liquid from the man’s tray, and took a much-needed drink. “He also asked me to try the Merlot. Strange order, but who am I to question the higher-ups?”

Without waiting to see if the man would agree to follow or not, Mathias turned around, preparing to escort the butler towards the hallway where Therin and Hollenworth stood. “Best not keep him waiting. If his head finally explodes from the stress, it’s literally your job to clean up, after all.”

Nightblade Divon

Sir Mathias Wolfe

Royal Guard

​

 

[Divon]

Ricardo Brent
Butler for the Leston Family​

"Surely the Queen has other things to busy herself with, instead of hosting parties once a week." A noble with a ridiculously complex haircut babbled as he squeezed by with his tray of drinks and petite desserts. If he had to compare it to something familiar, it looked like one of Bruno the Chef's terrible artistic attempts on stylising the frosty head of a cupcake.
"Easy on the drinks now, Margaret. Her majesty might be lonely, 'tis all. She needs to find another man soon, she will not stay young forever." Whispered the man next to her.

'She's already overcrowded in her head to be even near lonesome. But I can't blame them for being blind 'cause they're drunk 'nd all.'
Ricardo thought carelessly while he stopped in his tracks to serve another batch of nobles. Powdered fingers, gloved fingers -- all the like were reaching for more wine and sweets.
'Well I gotta blame them for getting drunk on this poor excuse of wine.'
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir? To the old man, it was like sweetened water.

Ricardo may have good ears for gossip but not for hearing an approaching presence. It was already difficult to hear specific sounds with the sophisticated music, abundance of chatter, clatter of heels and dress-shoes, and clinking of glasses.

The butler nearly jumped on the spot when a familiar gruff voice made itself known beside him.
“Brent, my friend, my mate, the man of the hour,”
Ricardo simply mustered up a grin of his own at that, as he looked up at that taller but much younger man. Mathias Wolfe, a man of the Royal Guard. He isn't all-so-close to this one as he was with the Barley Knight, Sigismund, but they've exchanged talks and drinks before. Or more so, Ricardo engaged him with it first, when he was drunk and bold himself.

“Therin sent me for you. He sounded very serious and brooding, but to be fair, does he ever not?”
The older man's mouth opened to a small 'o' and gave Mathias a quizzical look. Why would the guards need of him? His duties are in the Ballroom, the serving rooms, and the kitchen. He shut his mouth before his tongue could slip out the question -- good thing he hadn't had a drink yet.
“He also asked me to try the Merlot. Strange order, but who am I to question the higher-ups?”

"Sure...but I don't think that the tray has Merlot --" Ricardo began but trailed off sheepishly when he watched Sir Wolfe march off, red drink in hand. The butler's shoulders sagged slightly, and he suddenly found his legs refusing to budge. Something was wrong, and he could sense it. His throat was parched more than usual...

“Best not keep him waiting. If his head finally explodes from the stress, it’s literally your job to clean up, after all.”

The butler willed his feet to move -- one step, two, three...it's routine.
Walk, serve, walk some more.
But now it has been interrupted.
"What can I do but follow?" Ricardo murmured worriedly to himself as he followed after Sir Wolfe like a sheep trailing behind it's shepherd. However, even with the knots in his stomach and the dryness in his throat, curiosity still clawed at him. Then again, the boy could be playing a trick on him. It wasn't the first time, and though he believed he'd gotten used to Mathias' ploys -- he isn't. And he is not going to use his age as an excuse, but he will silently admit the boy's cleverness. If only he used half of it on not making his duty a tad bothersome.

Yes, it is possibility he will note, but this time it may be unlikely. It involved Therin.

"I hope it's nothing too heavy, because I still have some drink and sweetrolls to serve, Sir." Ricardo called out to Mathias through the crowd. The butler was still holding the trays, after all.

coding; allrightsreserved deer

[Click me]

Location: Ballroom --> Hallway
Scenario: Following Mathias Wolfe
Tags: Slade Nightblade

 

[Slade]

"Sure...but I don't think that the tray has Merlot --"

And sure enough, Mathias winced as the distinctive taste of Pinot Noir lingered in his mouth. Well-deserved, of course, for not letting the old man get a word in before he seized one of his drinks. “Ah, it’s too dry for me, whatever this is.” He turned around for a moment, if only to place the glass back on the tray, and kept walking. “You know I like some bite in my drink myself, but wine should be sweet and delicate, like the nobles doomed to drink them.”

Mathias shrugged as Ricardo expressed his concerns. He appreciated the quick compliance, though the sudden change in demeanour made him look older than he was -- which really was saying something, considering Ricardo was, well, Ricardo. “Cheer up, old man.” He glanced over his shoulder to send him a reassuring look. “The commander’s already got the sulking covered. Don’t take that away from him.”

As he spoke, a young lady in blue -- one of Count Cavendish’s daughters, certainly, although her name escaped him at the moment -- turned around to greet him, to the chagrin of her companion who had been mid-sentence. She raised a gloved hand, attempting to give the pair a friendly wave, but nearly lost her balance in the process. “There you are, Sir Wolfe. I’ve been looking for you all night!” Her words came out slurred.

“What rubbish, darling.” Mathias had to give it to whoever invented the word “darling” -- it put him out of many a tricky situation. “I’ve been staring at you across the room all evening. Not one glance from you. It was most heartbreaking.”

“You didn’t really expect me to recognise you when you’re wearing one of those ghastly helmets, do you?”

Mathias chuckled, as if he genuinely found her remark every bit humorous, and pointed at the greatsword strapped to his back. “Next time, just watch out for the man with the big sword. You know me, darling. Always compensating for something.”

The count’s daughter giggled, her already over-rouged cheeks blushing more brightly under the influence of alcohol. Her companion caught her just as she nearly dropped to the floor.

“Well, then. Pardon my rudeness, but I must get going. Work, work, work.” He gave the pair one last grin before he continued on his way. The woman just far too drunk, and he was already all booked for the night.

Much to Mathias’ surprise, they were able to pass through the rest of the guests unscathed. No one bothering him for a conversation, or hassling Ricardo for a drink off his tray. “As for the platter, not to worry. I can take care of that for you. After all, Therin might have a lot of questions to ask.”

At last, they stood in front of the trio -- Therin, Hollenworth, and the yet unnamed servant girl, who was trembling just as much as she was when Mathias had left him.

“Ah, Master Brent.” Hollenworth gave him a small nod. “Pardon us for taking you away from your duties. We, err, well, commander, care to explain the situation?”

Divon Hell0NHighWater

Sir Mathias Wolfe

Royal Guard

​

 

[Divon]

Ricardo Brent
Butler for the Leston Family​

“Ah, it’s too dry for me, whatever this is.”
Bushy blond brows that're heavily flecked with earthy brown were raised in a mixture of silent disapproval and disbelief when he watched Mathias nonchalantly return the red glass back to the tray.
'Well I've gotta remember to not let any others down that particular cup...' Ricardo thought, slightly inconvenienced. Of course he's been through worse (repulsively worse) but this was a hidden pet peeve of his; it's not like he can raise his voice against that action in front of other nobles, but if the situation had been more private...
It would be like a father scolding a vivacious son.
As if he's ever considered Sir Wolfe as such.

“You know I like some bite in my drink myself, but wine should be sweet and delicate, like the nobles doomed to drink them.”
"If I've got the courage to speak aloud about nobles like that, I'll probably be on my arse on the streets without a job." Ricardo commented mindlessly as he weaved between the mentioned higher-classes.
'Sweet and delicate, sure. Wine's weak stuff but nobles have more power in their status than they know what to do with it.'

“Cheer up, old man."
The butler managed to glimpse the look that Mathias shot him before losing sight of him for a second when another servant got in between them.
"The commander’s already got the sulking covered. Don’t take that away from him.”
Ricardo snorted and felt the sag of his shoulders lighten up a little. He wasn't one to brood nor sulk, even when in the cups.
"Keep that silliness of yours, Sir. We need more of that in the palace nowadays." He paused for a second and a couple more sweetrolls and glasses were taken away from the trays -- and one of them was the drink that Mathias imprudently did not finish. Ricardo didn't notice though.
"Actually...keep that sort away from the kitchens. I have enough trouble with the servants." He was half-joking, but he would leave it to the boy's interpretation.

“There you are, Sir Wolfe. I’ve been looking for you all night!”
Ricardo came to a smooth halt a few steps behind the guard, and he slightly lowered his gaze as a young noble woman beautifully draped in blue had seemingly burst out of nowhere in the crowds. Ricardo did not recognise this woman, apart from her obvious upbringing from wealth.

He listened waited patiently for Sir Wolfe's conversation with the noble woman to end. Occasionally he had quirked a brow and attempted but failed to stifle chuckles during their exchange. Their talk was not much gossip, but more of a poor excuse of flirting, especially from the girl.
'Poor thing, already drunk on such weak wine. I hope I don't see her sprawled somewhere in this castle in the morning.' Such wishful thinking, that. He'll be likely to find other nobles that had done their passionate love-making on on her Majesty's many furniture at dawn. Nobles were still human after all, and they had thirst like all others. He was guiltily craving for some strong alcohol.

“Well, then. Pardon my rudeness, but I must get going. Work, work, work.”
And with that, the not-part-of-the-routine walking resumed. They've exited the Ballroom and stepped into a new passage, one that had cobblestone flooring covered by luxurious carpets.

“As for the platter, not to worry. I can take care of that for you. After all, Therin might have a lot of questions to ask.”
"Eh, I can get that much already --" Ricardo, this time, cut himself off when he was confronted by the sight of a sobbing servant girl and the two guards beside her. The old man's arm subtly shook without his knowledge, and faintly caused the trays he was holding to vibrate a little before his muscles corrected themselves.
He was not old. It was the girl's trembling that's worried his weary bones.

“Ah, Master Brent.”
Ricardo snapped his attention away from the servant girl and to the guard to her right. He assumed the man was Hollenworth, for he was one of the few guards to call the butler "master". It was still an odd thing to hear, but its past time for him to say anything against it.
“Pardon us for taking you away from your duties. We, err, well, commander, care to explain the situation?”

"Josie, girl, what have you done?" He whispered urgently, trying to get the girl to raise her eyes to meet his.
His voice was familiar, of course, servants who dilly-dallied on their work would hear him often, or others that performed diligently would hear his praise. She was the latter.

Josephine raised her head, shoulders still trembling but no longer quaking. Pale baby blues looked sadly into his own steel-grey ones. She didn't answer him.
Ricardo didn't understand fully, but the dryness in his throat was becoming almost unbearable. It took the remaining of his willpower to not hand the tray of desserts to Sir Wolfe and down a glass of Chardonnay to quench his dehydrated throat. Instead his posture grew rigid, his arms suddenly tired, the weight of the trays apparent.

"I really hoped it wasn't something too heavy...I promised not to drink tonight." Ricardo chuckled wearily.

coding; allrightsreserved deer

[Click me]

Location: Hallway
Scenario: Interrogation (Poor Josie)
Tags: Slade Nightblade

 

[SandraDeelightful]

Queen Almina of Leston​

Almina looked towards Anna, and a soft smile graced her lips. She put a hand on Anna's shoulder and patted it for a second. For many, it would be a bad thing to anger Almina and spoil her mood. But her trusted ladies were important to her, they were among her favorites.

"Do not worry, Anna," said Almina. There was a bitter edge to her voice, even though she was trying to remain kind. Anna was the last person to be mad at right now. There were plenty more whom she would rather spend her anger on. "I am not angry with you. I am angry with that idiotic maid. Even if there was no poison in that glass, which I highly doubt, she should have known better to give me my drink like that. She and whoever else was behind that has spoiled my evening."

Almina was almost getting angry with herself for the way she raised Theodore. Perhaps she should have been more strict with him. She didn't want the woman he married, whoever she may be, to be like her. To be in bed alone, knowing that her husband was with another woman. Knowing that he was tied to her, when he wanted to be with someone else. It was a horrible feeling. One that Almina knew all too well. It seemed to be a miracle that she waited until after her husbands death before she sought company elsewhere. There were definitely plenty of ladies at Court who would be glad to keep the crown prince company in bed.

"I trust you completely, Anna," said Almina sincerely. "You ought to know that I trust my ladies fully. You would not be my ladies otherwise."

MJ ._.

 

[Trompe lOeil]

Lord Eamon of Dantes​

"Well we can't have that," Eamon drawled, taking a sip of his wine. The young man with the tray of wine had left. Good. Nothing to see here. "Do tell me if the night proves to be too cold. We can always return to the ballroom." She had better not ask him for his jacket. For one thing, it was by far the best part of his outfit. The shirt he wore beneath it was passable at best. For another, it would be far too forward. What would people think?

"I am in agreement," he decided. "Coming out here was a marvelous idea. My compliments to whomever suggested it." He tried to suppress a grin at his own joke and failed. Lord Brightflame, who had briefly shared the patio with them, turned and left, pulling Eamon's focus to the exotic Northerner. "What a curious man," Eamon remarked, nodding toward Daeron's retreating back. "Asking the Queen for a dance was bold indeed, don't you think?"

Lady Elizabeth might have expressed a distaste for gossip, but Eamon thrived on it. Something as scandalous as that dance was simply begging to be discussed. And Eamon had to admit that he was curious about the foreign Lord. There was something about him...he seemed to be very deliberate in his actions. Eamon got the sense that he missed very little. Maybe Lady Elizabeth had heard something about him.

As he looked back toward the ballroom, Eamon noticed something else. "The guards are certainly moving about, aren't they? You don't suppose something's happened?" Usually the kept to their posts. The beginning of the night had been more exemplary of typical behavior - stand against the wall, look for trouble, keep a sword on you just in case. They rarely had anything to do, which is why it was so odd that so many guards were on the move. It was clear that they were trying to be discreet - no one had screamed yet, after all - but you could only have so many armored men lumbering around before people started to notice.

Uasal MJ ._. Aio

 

[deer]

Lady Evangeliya Viktoria Koháry of the House Tsvetkov-Koháry

Lady-in-Waiting of Queen Almina​

The sound of the vibrato of the musical instruments bounced inside the ballroom as the guests of honor indulged themselves by either crowding the dance floor - their bodies swaying to the music - or were gathered on the outskirts of the floor - playing a good game of cat and mouse by fooling with the notion that the nobles and other guest had a thought of actually liking each other. Nevertheless, the party was fit for a Queen in all of its extravagance and glory with the bright lights and pleasantries of small gossips and intrigue. The beauty of the ball was the blatant cover of prestige that hides the ever-looming coldness of misplaced trust and blossoming love that would only end in an aftermath of a scheme that none wanted to endure. Fooling each other for the sake to get closer to the Crown. Quite a feat, really. The lot of them were like pawns on a chessboard and as they say, behind every King is a Queen waiting to strike.

Her gaze was fixated upon the small little mishap that took place right under the very nose of the palace. Although her attention was drawn to the low profiled attempt at a maid that almost attempted to poison the Queen but failed miserably, the young woman could only internally shake her head seeing that the maid forgot key notes - the taste testing before anything was given to the Queen. As the drama was nearing its end, something that kept Evangeliya from going straight over towards Her Majesty and Anna was the fact that she was engaged in quite a lengthy and tiresome conversation with a Duke. The young lady-in-waiting still managed to keep her wits about her, thoroughly pretending to enjoy the conversation she was having with the young Duke from - well, it didn’t really matter to her who he is and where he came from. The truth of the matter was he bored her with his unashamed ideal that he was a catch of every pure-hearted noble or servant’s dream. Evangeliya waited for an invitation from the said Duke for a dance but none came. What a pompous strait-laced air head.

Despite Evangeliya not being at the Queen’s side as she should be, she had complete trust that Anna had everything handled and from the looks of things, the older woman knew that something was off about the maid that wanted to serve the Queen a drink. A rookie mistake. The party seemed to drag on as the small little riff ended and Evangeliya found herself not being able to tolerate the Duke anymore that she excused herself from his presence and moved on without looking back. The baffled look on the man’s face was a sight to see but nonetheless, he tried to remain cordial with her but with the strained smiled he had given her, she almost had to bite in a laugh as he reminded her of someone who was constipated. She simply would not allow herself to be just another conquest and a woman to show off as some arm candy only allowing herself to be sought after as they chased her, not the other way not around.

As Evangeliya watched the discreet movements of the guards and the knights in the ballroom - to an untrained eye nothing was the matter, but through the eyes of a daughter of a High General there was, obviously, something admist - she could tell they were quickly trying to settle the matter without disrupting the ball and avoiding the Queen's temper, not wanting cross her. However, before Evangeliya wanted to further investigate the happenings of the night, her gaze turned towards the throne where Queen Almina was sitting and where Anna stood closely beside her. If it was any other time, Evangeliya would have quickly made her way on the other side of the Queen as there was a small little competition between both her and Anna - may the best lady-in-waiting win, fair and square. Out of everyone in the court, the only one Evangeliya trusted was Anna - learning from the best and looking up to the older woman. Evangeliya had waited for Anna to take note of her, waiting for her eyes to lock with hers and hopefully her gaze would be noticed by her. She had secretly passed along a message to Anna and only she could decipher it through Evangeliya's facial expressions and use of body language. The secret was theirs and they found a way to convey messages to each other if there ever was a reason they were not together and needed to quickly tell the other something without causing suspicion.

Once Evangeliya send the secret message to Anna, her gaze dropping, she went on her merry way, maneuvering herself through the crowd swiftly to see what interesting dirt she could pick up. Her eyes scanned the crowd as she looked upon Prince Theodore's manservant: Eamon dancing with Lady Elizabeth, an estranged child of the Queen. Her brows narrowed slightly as she watched from afar wondering what the man wanted from the young lady. But, at the corner of her eye, she saw the youngest Princess Euphrosyne dancing with the Duke of Silvyre. The man always intrigued her from his pale, fair-skinned to his white, pure hair that reminded her of snow. Nevertheless, seeing him dance with the youngest princess only made her feel slightly protective. She regarded the princess as a genuine soul, not one that should be put in the cross-fire of the taintness of the Courts. But, she couldn't very well stepped in so, instead she made a mental note to check every now and then about those two.

However, as Evangeliya made her rounds, she took note of Sir Mathias Wolfe - a man she would see at the tourneys and found an enjoyment in watching him compete - coming to the clearing to get Ricardo to follow him back to where Sir Barley had taken the maid. Would Ricardo know of the maid's reason? The butler was loyal but would he rat out his own people? Maybe it was time for drinks after the ball, As Evangeliya made her way closer, she saw Sir Barley returning to his post to watch the ballroom once more. A thought clicked into her head to follow Ricardo and Sir Matthias Wolfe into the secret passageway to find word of what has happened, however, Evangeliya knew she could always speak to him later and ask for the gossip as he is a man on intrigue. The small leeway of the door from inside the room and the ballroom would be a hard feat to come in and out discreetly, so, she'd have to wait for an opportunity.

Instead of walking further, Evangeliya found herself walking in the opposite direction heading back into the crowd before she noted that the Eldest Princess Azalea was on the other side of the room, sitting. Did she not want to dance? Evangeliya liked Princess Azalea's fiesty spirit, something that reminded her of herself, really. But, as Evangeliya walked further in, she found the Crown Prince standing back and about, not with a lady to talk or dance with. How odd. She was just about to approach him when her eyes caught two other females dancing together and she wondered if any of them would intrigue His Highness. He wouldn't fall for that, would he? But, the moment she asked herself that small question was the moment Evangeliya found herself rolling her eyes. Of course he would, the man was a charmspeaker and flirt afterall. Without further ado, Evangeliya decided to at least have some sort of fun tonight and she knew just the place to amuse herself.

Finding her way back out from the crowd, Evangeliya finally made it out as she fixed her attire - the same matching purple color of her Highness Queen Almina though the hue of the purple was much lighter than darker than the bright appeal of the Queen's dress. Evangeliya knew that both she and Anna had to blend in the background, not wanting to bring attention to themselves. Without further ado, a small grin appeared on her face as she found her target: Sir Barley. As she went to approach him, sidling up beside him as she looked out at the view he was seeing, Evangeliya cleared her throat before speaking, "Good evening, Sir Barley. Quite a show tonight, was it not?" She whimsically said, her tone quite amused and light before she continued, "If it was not for your watchful eye, I wonder what would have happen. Anna would have known as it is protocol for her to taste first than directly give food or liquid to the Queen." Evangeliya stated in a matter-of-the-fact way, not one that was condescending, but truthfully. "How did you know of the maid's true intent?" She questioned curiously before her eyes scanned the area. "So this is the view from over here. It is quite a nice one. Are you enjoying your time?" Evangeliya questioned, jumping from one topic to the next before she stood in front of Sir Barley grinning up at him, "There is a lot that I have been wanting and meaning to ask a Royal Guard, but currently I feel like you are just the right person. After-all, you did save the Queen. Although it is your duty, you have gone above and beyond even Sir Therin seemed to have been caught off guard of such issues. What do you say, Sir Sigismund Clodomir? Care to indulge a lady?" Evangeliya smiled, questioning the older man as she hoped he would say yes - the man of the hour - and that he'd give her the time of day. It was an opportunity she couldn't allow to herself to not take advantage of.

interaction: Cosmo [Sir Barley ]
mentions: MJ ._. [ Anna ] , SandraDeelightful [ Queen Almina and Princess Euphrosyne ] , Ms. Sparrow [ Princess Azalea ] , Divon [ Ricardo ] , Slade [ Matthias ] , Nightblade [ Astrid and Vex ] , Kent [ Gabriel ] , Misty Gray [ Prince Theodore ] , Trompe lOeil [ Eamon ] , Uasal [ Lady Elizabeth ] , Hell0NHighWater [ Sir Therin ]

 

[Cosmo]

Sigismund Clodomir, the Barley Knight

Sigismund raised his eyebrow at the young peacock and it took quite a bit of willpower to not look behind him to confirm the trio were still walking down the hallway as that would make him wonder how faulty the commander's eyesight was, perhaps all that flashy armor was bad after all. He supposed he could have dragged the girl through the crowds to wherever the peacock was trying to impressive some noble girl with his position, but that would have caused a scene. Something he would have thought should be avoided as scenes cause panic, panic causes stupidity and stupidity causes scandal. First priority should be in securing the suspect and having the evidence analyzed, not to sooth the ego of a peacock, but Sigismund had been through enough of these talk downs in his career as a guard and a winged lancer to know that none of the questions being directed at him were meant to be answered. Merely rhetorical questions shot one after the next to drive some sort of point and give the speaker some sort of satisfaction.

The corner of his lip tucked as the commander called him 'Sir Barley', for someone who seems to have taken their nickname hard, he was sure quick to use demeaning ones himself. A thought struck him like a thunderbolt, perhaps the young peacock wasn't aware that 'Sir Barley' was the same as 'Commander Peacock'. He was new, and Sigismund had been given that nickname long ago, so it was entirely possible the young commander truly believed his rank was 'Sir Barley' and had not connected the dots and realized that Sigismund was not a knight but the son of a baker and 'Sir Barley' was an insult based on his parentage, a loose jest upon the barley bread they often sell at their bakery. Or the commander was like many nobles and was not a fan of practicing what they preached. Either way, it wasn't going to stop him from referring to the young man as commander peacock just as, it seemed, it wasn't going to stop him from referring to him as 'Sir Barley'. Perhaps, in time, the young man would learn the same lesson as Sigismund, embrace the name for then it can no longer be used to hurt you.

Sigismund saluted Commander 'Peacock' Therin when he was dismissed with a simple fist to his chest and walked past him back to his post. Wasn't worth fighting with the peacock there. Although, if his advice had been asked, Sigismund would have cautioned patience, to let the prisoner sit and let her mind roam to the worst possible outcomes first and then once the apothecary had discovered if it was poison, and of the type, they could confront her and more easily wrestle the information from her, but he could hardly stand in the young peacock's way, especially as it was painful on the eyes.

He quickly resumed his post in the corner, picking up his discarded halberd and resuming his stance. It wouldn't be long now, he could almost taste his freedom coming, freedom to leave this room for a time and enjoy some fresh air. Although, Sigismund knew he would end up waiting for the man to deliver news of the substance in the glass, it wasn't that he needed to, just the simple fact he would. He had started it, and he would see it finished, although it was still enjoyable to muse on not having to do so. Sigismund had to admit to some level of envy for guards like Wolfe, who could take their duties so lightly and be loved for it. It was not something he could do. He had tried, a few times, when he was exhausted both mentally and physically, yet despite his determination to 'take it easy' just this once, he found himself being just as watchful as ever. It wasn't in his blood, it seemed. A dutiful peasant laborer till the end.

So lost in his thoughts, he did not notice the young woman that slid up next to him, and when she spoke, her light, almost whimsical, voice carrying over the floor, it shook Sigismund, and he was almost ashamed he had been caught, in a matter of speaking, not paying attention to his surroundings. He turned his attention to her, looking down at her and her name flying through his mind, Lady Koháry, her full name was rather trying on the tongue but so was his. His green eyes widened as her questions kept coming, he was reminded almost of a small child asking him a dozen questions at once, so fast he didn't have time to consider the first before the third and fourth quickly followed.

So, instead, he stopped trying to listen, and instead, examined the woman. Sigismund knew of her, of course, but could not recall ever speaking with her before, or really, even being in close proximity. She wore her duller dress well, not wanting to overshadow her charge, and, like most women serving the royals, she was beautiful. He had to say, she was oddly endearing and charming, Lady Koháry would do well in court assuming the brains behind those intriguing eyes of her were as sharp as they were and knew to stay out of certain beds. Intriguing eyes, he would have to think of a better way to describe them later, but for now, that was all he could call forth.

His attention snapped back to her words when she moved to stand before him and smiled up at him with commendable confidence and charm, yes, she would do very well in court even if her charm was being wasted on him, but everyone needed to slum it a bit, Sigismund supposed.

"Currently?" He said, the corner of his lip twitching in amusement. So he wasn't the first pick, if he had to guess who was, Sir Wolfe would certainly appeal to her for being the 'dashing rogue' many found him to be, or the glorious commander peacock. Still, it was flattering, even if taking a glass from a defenseless serving girl was hardly what he would call 'above and beyond', but considering whom the other guards were, perhaps that sad statement held more truth then he cared to examine.

"Well," Sigismund started and paused. He had a job to do at the moment, when he was on leave, he could indulge her as Sigismund did enjoy stories, but she had called him by his full name, a rather cumbersome name to say, and while he had a suspicion she did so on purpose to inspire some level of trust or fondness, it worked as she could have just as easily called him Sir Barley, "Alright, Lady Koháry, I shall answer what I can."

​

deer Slade SandraDeelightful Hell0NHighWater

​

 

[deer]

Lady Evangeliya Viktoria Koháry of the House Tsvetkov-Koháry

Lady-in-Waiting of Queen Almina​

Her warm, chocolate brown eyes gazed upon the guard's own almost wild-like amber almond-shaped eyes, watching with curiosity as she studied his eyes, taking in each flicker. Evangeliya had always been curious of the Royal Guard hearing rumours and gossip in the servant's quarter of his "traitorous" acts and low status heritage. Despite the young's women attention to detail and keen nature, she had always found it best to hear the truth of the matter from the person involved than trust gossip that was or was not true. Though, entertaining, it would not help her in the long run if her information was faux.

As Evangeliya waited for the male's answer, she examined him carefully, sizing his garments up and down as her lips pursed together in thought. The garment wasn't anything out of the ordinary, quite the contrary as it was just the usual Royal Guard's attire. Evangeliya wondered if the man was too lost in his thoughts to hear her or perhaps he was too attune with watching the party that everything slipped his mind. She couldn't tell with the helm covering his head, especially his face - it almost caused her to groan in frustration not being able to tell how his muscles moved - relaxed or clenched, twitching or stoic. But, she had to admit, he did have an aura of someone that took his position quite seriously - quite dutiful and responsible, the man was, especially since it was such a rare trait among the guards. However, Evangeliya couldn't help but want to gain his attention and so she persistently stood in front of him, waiting for him to find her eyes. She felt like a child peering up at the guard, waiting for him to pay a little bit of attention to her - or maybe she was just being a bit too impatient in the first place. What was she thinking asking Sir Clodomir a little bit of his time? She could almost feel a faint flush build up her cheeks the more she waited for him to answer.

However, after what felt like hours to her, she heard his questionable tone. The Heaven's above must be singing as Evangeliya couldn't help but find her smile widening a bit more, sighing inwardly that he had responded. She hated those ghastly helms - could they even breathe in there? Was it not bothersome? When she heard him repeat a word she had said, currently, Evangeliya raised a slight brow in a questioning gesture that showed he caught her off guard. With everything she had said, the one phrase that got to him was the phrase she said that he was currently the person she was looking for. Slight tension, was it? Evangeliya's smile formed a mischevious, cheshire grin. It was an odd attention-getter, but perhaps he was surprised she decided to give him attention rather than others. It was quite humbling to her and flattering to him to the point she couldn't help but feel amused. Or was the distaste of Sir Clodomir's position as Royal Guard despite his status? Sir Clodomir only spoke one word so far and Evangeliya already wanted to know more about the man. With a shrug of her shoulder, Evangeliya watched him under her observant gaze, "While Sir Wolfe and Sir Therin could have been a choice, they weren't in the running I'm afraid, listening to them would have been quite predictable. I would rather come to someone who seemed much more attune with his position, plus I can finally become acquainted with you. I have seen and heard of you but have yet the honor and chance to officially meet." She said, greeting him formally yet there was something nonchalant about those words.

But, when the words "Lady Koháry" slipped from Sir Clodomir's lip, her brows furrowed together in slight aversion as she shook her head. "Please, you may call me Evangeliya. Lady Koháry sounds too formal, perhaps in the presence of other royals, but if it is one on one, just Evangeliya. Or perhaps, Eva, if you wished, whatever makes you more comfortable But, I'd prefer Eva - my friends call me that, or at least if I had some that were trustworthy." Evangeliya reassured him as she sighed inwardly remembering how many times she had been scolded by not only her mother and father, but even the servants of her House were screaming Lady Koháry - that only brought memories she didn't want resurfacing. Nevertheless, her attention was drawn back towards Sir Clodomir when he agreed to indulge her and would answer what he could. Her eyes lit up as she couldn't help but feel relieved but also accomplished.

"May I ask what made you want to become a Royal Guard? Was it always your dream or was there another reason?" Evangeliya questioned knowing it was more of a personal question. However, she decided it would be best to be acquainted with the male than go straight into asking exactly what had happened. In regards, she decided she wanted to get to know Sir Clodomir despite going straight into a question that could easily be over-stepping a line. But, she wanted to know, especially, if the rumours were faux or not.

Cosmo , Hell0NHighWater , Slade

 

[Cosmo]

Sigismund Clodomir, the Barley Knight

The honor and chance to meet him? That was not the first time Sigismund had heard that... but it was the first time anyone sounded like they meant it even if she said it with a certain levity. Of course, one could never be too sure with honesty ranking so low a quality among the nobs as it did, but by the gods it looked like she truly did which was baffling, in its own way. Sigismund would never call himself incredibly interesting or amusing, he left that to Sir Wolfe. He wasn't quite sure if him being predictable in his speech was true, his mannerism and actions were rather predictable as one could count on him to flirt with a pretty girl or attempt to get a rise out of a man, but what he said to do could always manage to surprise Sigismund. Then again, Lady Koháry was likely very used to flirtation so, perhaps, to her, it was all rather drab and predictable. A curious thought. Her rather large smile, akin to a cat that had finally managed to get the cream was disarming and Sigismund could almost admit to feeling like a mouse that was being observed by the satiated feline, almost.

Sigismund tilted his head ever so slightly to the left as she furrowed her brow as he said her name. For a moment, he thought he had mispronounced it, but that was quickly dispelled as she revealed her reasons, why she disliked being called Lady Koháry was a peculiarity but, ultimately, none of his concern. It did imply a level of companionship, and even intimacy, that didn't yet exist, but Sigismund could hardly dictate the manner in which another person wanted to be addressed even if a rather large part of him still preferred to call her Lady Koháry, so he bowed his head slightly to her request. Although, if she wanted to find a trustworthy friend, she came to the wrong place. The games the nobility played were built on lies, slander and facades. The worst part of it all was they believed being a spineless, deceitful cur was some kind of achievement or virtue. It was disgusting, but, on this, he held his tongue. Part of the job was knowing when to shut up when one didn't have anything nice to say, and Sigismund rarely had anything nice to say. Part of why he was so popular.

Once again, Sigismund felt his head tilting, although this time, in the opposite direction, going to his right. His amber eyes scanned her once, "Well, Evangeliya," Sigismund said slowly, letting her name roll a little to get a feel for the name, "I admit, I did not expect that question."

And he hadn't. In his experience, nobs wanted to ask about battles and war, to live vicariously through his stories all whilst enjoying that warming knowledge that they were better then he and never need dirty their hands, at least, directly. Or questions on his families bakers and the 'day to day activities' of the commoners as they giggled about how 'quaint' it all must be.

The desire to tell her a grande tale was frightfully strong as Sigismund so did love a good story, but it was hard to say exactly why Evangeliya was here and, more importantly, he was still on duty and so didn't quite sit right with him to be engaging in something so, as he would often quote a a very mature duchess with a love of younger men, fanciful.

"I never dreamed of becoming a royal guard. Never even considered it," Sigismund admitted, "I was a soldier who saved the right man's life."

He kept it vague, but the story teller in him couldn't help but leave that hint of a tale waiting to be unfolded, it was too ingrained in him, "After that, I was offered a position here, much to everyone's delight. I took it because the pay was better and I get to be with my family," he finished which was the truth.

Sigismund couldn't help but ask the question that had lingered in the back of his mind since she came over, "Now if I may ask, Evangeliya, why is it you want to talk to me or any other guard? I hate to dispel any notions of..." He paused to find the right word, his free left hand rotating in the air like a mouse in a wheel as it sought the word, "Valor, but the guard are spoiled nobles with no land prospects or lax knights seeking easy gold," and easy women he added mentally, his eyes jumping to Reynold in the opposite corner still flirting with some woman or another, "to go and pretend they have value as they play their games."
​

deer Slade

 

[Misty Gray]

Prince Theodore of Leston​

It hadn't taken much effort at all for him to get a rise out of Lisbelle and that amused Theo greatly, though the prince wouldn't show it outwardly. Instead, he kept his cold and indifferent expression throughout the lady's words of disgust and protestation. She truly was too much fun. He really could assert his authority right now, if he cared to. However, his mother enjoyed these balls and he wasn't about to ruin this one for her. "You overestimate your worth, Lisbelle. You are in no position to proclaim your standards," he quietly told her. When she excused herself to seek out Azalea, Theo simply nodded and sent her a smile. Or was it a smirk? There was certainly malice and coldness hidden within the expression that Lisbelle would have been sure to pick up on.

Once the woman had gone to find his sister, Theo continued to observe those around him. His eyes fell upon the two women who were dancing together, before he looked to see his mother and Anna had also looked in their direction. He briefly caught their eyes before looking away, a small smirk appearing on his lips. He couldn't help but wonder if they were second-guessing his next move. His next move was originally going to be to find himself another drink, but if people were to insist on gossip and spying, why not indulge them for a short while?

Theo looked back to Astrid and Vex, seeing the former's eyes had met his own. It hadn't been his intention to notice, but he couldn't help but take not of how attractive Astrid was. He approached the two women and put on his most charming of smiles. "Good evening, ladies," he pleasantly greeted them. "May I have the next dance with you?" he asked Astrid. At least, it sounded like he was asking, but he was the Crown Prince, so if she didn't want her evening to turn sour it would be wise for her to accept his offer.

​

Xed Nightblade
Mentioned: Ms. Sparrow SandraDeelightful MJ ._.

 

[deer]

Lady Evangeliya Viktoria Koháry of the House Tsvetkov-Koháry

Lady-in-Waiting of Queen Almina​

Never had she ever had to watch with careful diligence to the small little shifts and details in the way someone moved than she had to at this moment. It was quite an easy feat for her to tell when a someone would lie just by their unconscious quirks she'd naturally give way to . Her tact had yet to fail her and she hoped it wouldn't. She never liked to lose. The questions would always start with the asking their name, taking in the way their lips parted to the way their eyes glinted underneath the light. After the basic questions giving and answering between the both of them, she would follow up with questions that fitted the circumstances ultimately coming to questions that would call for a reaction. Do you believe in love? It always amused her to watch those crumble under the question and watch as they squirm with unease as sweet lies spewed from their mouths that should be washed with salt. Females, depending on those in court, the maids or other servants are usually "knees weak" for a good gossip, would blush within a second. The men, on the other hand, perhaps would play it off or start reciting from a book and become theatrical to start a hoax of their "need" for "true love". It only reminded her of that previous duke - what did he say his name was? - no matter, she didn't bother indulging the man with her time and resources than what was expected of her out of sense of moral obligations as a lady-in-waiting. It unnerved her to no end how woman would throw themselves at men if they received the slightest bit of attention. At least have some decency to contain your hormonal desire for an affair or be able to contain your need. Evangeliya had gotten what she wanted during the first half hour and that damned duke couldn't stop talking about himself. Another case of narcissism One of the biggest downfalls of her investigations were the facts that the more she asked of their lives, the more they told her what wasn't necessary for her to hear and before she could walk away, she would become entangled in their sob story that she never asked for. But, perhaps it may be of use - better to be safe than sorry, she guessed.

Her wide-eyed gaze continued it's screening of the male's tall stature as she peered at him. She took notice of the small minuscule tilt of his helm as she spoke to him, giving way to some reassurance that he had been listening or rather curious. Though, believe it or not, Evangeliya felt slighted as it was quite unfair since Sir Clodomir had a disadvantage. But, she didn't want to even admit or think to herself that she felt vulnerable simply based on the fact that he was masked and she was not. Si Clodomir could openly see her expressions while she simply could not. A part of her wanted to take off his helm but it wasn't the time nor place to do that - plus she would rather jump into cold water than be caught in a scandal that would blow up in a matter of seconds for her actions. There was another reason why she hadn't been fond of the courts - too much inaccuracy of the gossip for her taste and better yet, it was only due to the fact that noblemen and noblewomen simply couldn't stray from the attention.

Nevertheless, the sound of her name coming from Sir Clodomir's tongue surprised her as she looked at him like a doe in headlights. The way he slowly pronounce her name caused the corners of her lips to tug upwards, her eyes smiling as she patiently listened to him. With a soft laugh, Evangeliya nodded, "It seems I must have that affect on people or maybe it is just you." She teasingly responded as she was also taken for a twirl, not expecting Sir Clodomir to admit out-loud that he was caught off guard by her question. It wasn't everyday people, in general, liked admitting, herself included and so that only left her in awe of the guard. Nevertheless, she remained silent as she listened to his reason for becoming a guard and if that was his goal in life. And of course, Sir Clodomir hadn't given much of a thought to the occupation but was rather a turn of events of an advantageous opportunity. Evangeliya wondered who the man was and wanted to know more. Something inside her told her that he was holding back. Was it a tale too grand to tell? Or would it distract him too much from his duty at hand? And at those thoughts, Evangeliya hadn't almost, almost forgotten where they were currently - the party that was droning on.

Evangeliya couldn't help but let the next words slip-out, "A soldier who saved the right man's life. . ." She started, her brows furrowing together in thought, repeating the words as she let the thought sink in her head. As Sir Clodomir continued, Evangeliya wondered if she detected a slight sarcasm before he ended with saying the pay was better and it allowed him to be with his family. Family. . . when was the last time she spoke to hers? Shaking those thoughts, Evangeliya tapped her chin as she gazed up, staring directly in his eyes, trying her best to see if she could detect any hint of deception before converying, "Hopefully, if there ever were to be a life and death situation or rather any situation at all that I were to be caught in, you would be the one coming to my aid." Evangeliya grinned at him as she placed her hand behind her back, swaying slightly as she wondered what expressions he would make from the words she had said. "But, for family. . . is it? It has been awhile since I have seen my own, or rather, half of the servants of the castle have yet to see their family until they are given a day off. So, I am glad you get to be with yours. Truly." She genuinely vocalized.

On the other hand, she truly, honestly doubted that she'd need his help and aid being the independent woman she was, but she wouldn't deny a help from a man who would risk his life for someone disregarding his own. At the same time a part of her wanted to see how well he'd fare with bows rather than a blade, or perhaps, she could ever get the chance, she'd be able to see a sparring match with him against perhaps Sir Wolfe or Sir Therin. Evangeliya couldn't deny that Sir Wolfe had expertise in wielding and despite the male's nature to give her flowers at the end of the tourney, she kept them in a vase, watering them daily. It would be a waste to let them die without letting them live to their full potential.

However, the lady-in-waiting was poured out of her thoughts when Sir Clodomir asked her a question she was taken a twirl for. Blinking back her surprise as she was caught off-guard, Evangeliya tilted her head to the side as she watched Sir Clodomir move his finger in a circular motion. At seeing a legitmate action from the guard, Evangeliya gasped as she felt slightly giddy, a small laugh threatening to spill from her lips as attempted to cover her lips. Realising her mistake of almost getting caught laughing in front of the guard, Evangeliya didn't want him to think she was laughing at him but rather it was one filled of perhaps relief? joy? Whatever it was, Evangliya composed herself. Nevertheless, despite her small faltering actions, Evangeliya had taken his words to heart, listening to his sincere question. However before she responded, Evangeliya wondered out-loud, "So, you could move. I was beginning to think you would only move if something drastic were to happen. You were as still as a statue before me. " She playfully commented before mentally adding don't be a chess piece in this court of secrets and move as others make you.

As silence drifted between the two for a moment, Evangeliya had been lost in thought, trying to put words together of how she wanted to respond. Evangeliya could detect a hint of distaste and a slight sneer in his polite words, but she couldn't fault him. Her eyes drifted towards the ball before turning back towards Sir Clodomir. Taking a deep breath, Evangeliya stood still in her spot, "It is to dispel any notions of the rumours I overhear frequently on the common grounds of the castle. I would rather come and see for myself the truth than play into the whispers and lies of the court." She started, not really thinking of the words that escaped her lips as she found herself standing taller and more upright than before, unconsciously, "Despite disliking the games the nobles play, it is a game that has been on-going before you and I were alive and it seems we are going to be thrown in this ugly sport. But, the reason I talk to you or the guards is because. . . tell me, if I were the Queen or one of the Princesses, would you have been as honest as you were? I am merely a lady-in-waiting seeking answers for my own mind and although companionship that is not based upon lust is rare and I have a mind for a conversation, getting to know the hidden lies and truth starts with . .talking." Evangeliya finished, wondering if her words got through to him or not. Even she, herself, didn't know if that had answered his question, but regardless, she had been honest. Though, there was thing she hadn't added. . . it would have been a lonely and quite boring if she didn't branch out beyond her quarters to speak to those around her. She didn't want to be a face among the crowd.

Cosmo , Slade , Hell0NHighWater

 

[ReverseTex]

Interactions/ Mentions: Cosmo deer ​

The ride South, a route he was comfortably familiar with, was quite soothing. The transformation from thick snow to green hills always was a beauty to him, and no matter the circumstance of his ride, he always took beauty of it. Daeron however wished to arrive to the capital in haste, most likely needing to find a woman and bed... But, the ride was cut short, and they were escorted into the capital...

Jorah has began to drift away from his Northern folk, curious of the Southerners. Sure he had lived amongst them for a little under half his life, but they always fascinated him. Plus, they were fun to mess with, seeing as they perceived him as a barbarian. Understandable, due to his appearance, but it was always good fun to switch accents or use medical terms.

Settling on a man and woman, who appeared to be Royal Guard and royalty of sorts. Talking of “The Game” from what he gathered as he got closer to the pair, carefully listening to their words. Then he adjusted his burgundy cloak as he approached. “Could not agree more, Lady.” Jorah said with a heavy norse accent as he dipped his head. “You Southerners always try to beat one another with words or politics, which has always been the way of the Lord and Ladies from my understanding... How rude of me! My name is Jorah Leidolf.” Dipping his head to both the lady and the knight, he smiled.

​

 

[Nightblade]

Daeron
Daeron had let his men move at their own will. He needed eyes everywhere in order to get as much information as he could. However right now, with the party in full swing, he wanted nothing more than to have someone warm his bed. Man...Woman, he cared not right now. With a sigh, he sat on a chair looking at the ongoing ball. He was thinking over the news he had managed to gather so far.

It was obvious there were factions scrambling for power within the capital. But who was moving against who, that was the big question. Looking thoughtful, he was thinking of his next move as his eyes zoned in on the people of interest to him, he had selected every single member of the travelling party for this himself. His eyes found Jorah first, seeing him chat away to some lords and ladies. Satisfied with that his eyes moved to the queen seeing her sitting and observing but there was a tension in her..something had happened. Next his eyes found the knight he had slipped the note to, a passing fancy but one he planned to take. Finally he found Astrid at the same time she was approached by the prince...

Astrid

Astrid froze as the prince approached and spoke to her, completely ignoring Vex. Vex bowed out as was expected, I mean who would defy the crown prince. Bowing gracefully and placing her hand in his, she gave a soft smile. "It would be an honour, your grace"

Standing in place, as a dancing pair would. She found herself roughly to the princes shoulder in terms of height. She knew she had a job to do but at the same time she would of course indulge herself. After all the crown prince was a dashing man.

Hearing the music start up, Astrid began to move in time with the steps, following the crown princes lead.

Interactions for Daeron: N/A
Mentions for Daeron: SandraDeelightful Slade ReverseTex
Interactions for Astrid: Misty Gray ​

 

[Aio]

Yesenia Isadora Tassis

Yesenia sighed, accompanying Lord Eamon and Princess Elizabeth was not proving to be as amusing as she hoped it to be. They had fallen prey to the mindless conversations most of this party seemed to engage in. A small smirk appeared on her lips as the princess suggested that the cool night might be troubling, her smirk only growing larger as Lord Eamon seemed to throw out the rules of a gentleman, suggesting to move inside in case she was to become cold.

Her ears perked up at the mention of Lord Brightflame. It was not unknown that the Lord was a bit, how do you say...unusual. She supposed dancing with the queen was just a sad attempt at being noticed by the royal court. Although Yesenia could not judge. It seemed all those with the title of Lord or Lady spent most of their time attempting to be noticed by the Royals, whether it be for potential marriage or to gain a spot among the court. While Yesenia would never be caught dead cozying up to the royals she knew for others it was a way of surviving. "Perhaps not bold, but expected. Some people will do anything to be noticed by..." She glanced at the princess deciding she should stop speaking before she got herself into trouble.

Pursing her lips she looked back at the ball, folding her hands behind her as she watched those inside. Her eyes lingering for a moment on the prince conversing with a woman she was not familiar with. Perhaps she would be the next girl to be found in the prince's bed. She had a slight fascination with Prince Theo. Mainly because of his reputations. She could never understand how someone could be so relaxed knowing how most viewed him. Although he was the prince so she assumed he could get away with his reputation. A small part of her hoped for a scandal among the royals and expected the prince to be apart of it.

Shaking her head of her thoughts she listened to Lord Eamon's comment about the guards. "Perhaps another failed attempt of assassination." Her words were quiet, not knowing how fragile the princess was when speaking about her mother. You would think with as many attempts on the queen's life that she would get the message and abdicate the throne. One could only hope she supposed. With every attempt, there was a lesson learned and perhaps those who wished the queens demise had learned enough by now the next time would not have the same results.

Interacting: Trompe lOeil Uasal
Mentions: Nightblade Misty Gray SandraDeelightful

 

[Aio]

Cecily Amphillis Asplyn

Cecily found her mind wandering, only snapping back to reality when she started to lean forward and accidentally stumbling before catching herself. Her cheeks flared red as she looked around hoping no one had seen her. Once back to reality she realized she had lost sight of Princess Euphrosyne, sighing as she was really turning out to be a sad excuse for a lady in waiting.

Everyone seemed to be mingling nicely and because of this Cecily could feel herself growing anxious. She was never one to put herself out there and her social life suffered because of this. The only one Cecily was able to carry a conversation with was her Princess and that was only because she was required to. Twiddling her fingers Cecily stood there as she watched the others. The party seemed to be in full swing which only caused Cecily to sigh, wishing for this night to be other. Partys were always physically draining, and sometimes emotionally if she was forced to interact. Bitting her lip Cecily, as she often did as a bad habit, she soon tasted blood. Sucking on her lip till the taste of blood went away, scolding herself.

Mentions: SandraDeelightful

 

[sprouhtt]

Daeron
Daeron had let his men move at their own will. He needed eyes everywhere in order to get as much information as he could. However right now, with the party in full swing, he wanted nothing more than to have someone warm his bed. Man...Woman, he cared not right now. With a sigh, he sat on a chair looking at the ongoing ball. He was thinking over the news he had managed to gather so far.

It was obvious there were factions scrambling for power within the capital. But who was moving against who, that was the big question. Looking thoughtful, he was thinking of his next move as his eyes zoned in on the people of interest to him, he had selected every single member of the travelling party for this himself. His eyes found Jorah first, seeing him chat away to some lords and ladies. Satisfied with that his eyes moved to the queen seeing her sitting and observing but there was a tension in her..something had happened. Next his eyes found the knight he had slipped the note to, a passing fancy but one he planned to take. Finally he found Astrid at the same time she was approached by the prince...

Location: The castle
Interaction: Daeron ( Nightblade )
Mentioned: N/A

Vienna was always nervous at big balls such as these. Even though she thought the maids didn't need her, seems like they were short on hand in the kitchen and in the ballroom where the party was being held. Vienna never did well at big gatherings since she hated the attention that it brought. Whenever the queen would hold parties like this, Vienna was always being looked at and taunted by the guest because of the color of her hair. Vienna let out a soft sigh as she was ordered to take the tray of wine out to the guest. These maids were really setting her up for disaster, who in their right minds would put wine glasses on a tray to be served to people. Not to mention that it was a full crowd, Vienna could already feel their eyes on her and her hair by the men and by the women as well. Most women admired her hair for they had never seen someone as young as Vienna have such white hair and then men just found it fascinating.

Vienna always had her head down, afraid to make eye contact with the guest. Vienna was off in some other world, thinking of her homeland and her mother and sister who are probably out there waiting to hear from Vienna. As she was walking, she was paying attention and accidentally bumped into someone. Vienna immediately snapped out of it when she heard one of the glasses break on the floor and she pressed the rest of the glasses onto her chest with the tray before they could fall. Vienna's attire was all ruined, it was already hideous enough and this was just icing on the cake for. Wine stains don't come off so easily. Vienna let out a gasp when she saw that she bumped into a man, Vienna bowed to him, not knowing whether he is royalty or just some wealthy man, she couldn't afford to lose the chance of bowing. She hated doing it, but she has learned the hard way of not bowing to someone of high authority. Vienna not once, did she look up at the man she had bumped into.

"I am very sorry for bumping into you," she said with a soft and gentle voice. Vienna was slightly trembling, knowing of the consequences that were going to be given to her later or now for what she had done. All she did was kneel down on the floor to pick up the broken classes with her hand and wipe the wine with a cloth she had tucked away. The guest around her looked to see what that broken sound was and Vienna could hear murmuring from the guest. As she was cleaning up the mess, she forgot that she was dealing with glass and she picked up a broken piece and it accidentally cut her. Now her finger was bleeding, but she continued to clean up her mess and didn't stop just because she was injured.

 

[Cosmo]

Sigismund Clodomir, the Barley Knight

As what was quickly becoming common, the corner of his lips lifted at her amusement to her surprise at his surprise to the direction of her questions. Sigismund had little doubt she had that effect on many poor, unsuspecting people. She certainly didn't dance around her questions and instead seemed to drive right to the heart of the manner, and he was equally certain that such direct lines of inquiry disarmed many of her peers, if it was intentional, it was cleverly done. Just the fact that he was standing her talking to her was proof of her charm which, if he dwelled on it, would have been disconcerting, but he didn't dwell.

Sigismund inclined his head slightly as she repeated his words to herself, confirming the truth of it with the subconscious act. "Hopefully, I'll never have to," Sigismund said with as much tact as he was able. He had little desire to face down assassins or disgruntled lovers, he did so because it was his duty, but he held no illusions of heroism nor delusions of grandeur. Perhaps the idea of being saved from peril was rather charming, to her, but to him, he'd rather it not happen in the first place as droll a story as that would be in comparison. There was nothing noble about killing another human being, there was no great epic that told the truth of the deed, of the smell as men loosed their bowls when they took their last breath, of the fear and disbelief in their eyes as the light slowly went out and how numb one became during it all as if their actions were not their own, but someone else's and it wasn't until after, when they were cold, shaking and covered in blood not their own that the truth started to sink in, of what they had done, of what they will have to do again. If he never had to be put in such a position again, he would consider it a blessing.

"Thank you," Sigismund said softly, his amber eyes ran over her face looking for deception, but from what he could tell, she was sincere, "I am rather fond of them," he added dryly.

"I've been known to move from time to time," Sigismund said easily enough, he hadn't known standing still had perturbed her. He stood still because he had no reason to move. He wasn't quite as energetic as Evangeliya who couldn't seem to stay still, swaying back and forth with an imaginary breeze, "If I desire to," he finished. Years of being a guard and a soldier had long ingrained his body with a certain posture and stance, akin to how she was likely molded by years of tutelage from governesses and tutors.

His eyes narrowed within his helm, so it hadn't been about the guard that she came armed with her questions for, she was curious about the stories that circled around him. For someone that seemed to want truth, it rankled a part of him. It shouldn't, Sigismund should have expected as much from the nobility, but the fact she was using the rumors circling him as some form of entertainment, a game to discover the truth behind the mystery, perturbed him. He had to reevaluate his opinion of the woman, it was almost sad that, to her, companionship meant nothing more then discovering the 'truth' behind people, a way to pass time and find some enjoyment in, the fact she hated lust didn't surprise him looking as she did for Evangeliya was beautiful and anyone who said otherwise would be a liar regardless of their reason for doing so.

Sigismund opened his mouth to answer her question and commit to be more reserved with her when his eyes fell upon an intruder, one that was hard to miss. He didn't recall his name, but it wasn't important, one of the large northern lords that had come to the south. His eyebrow raised at his belief that not giving his name was the rude part, not injecting oneself into the conversation after ease-dropping on part of the conversation, but lords never tended to understand such minor things, it was only rude, after all, if the action was done to them.

Between the new arrival and his new found annoyance at finding out the true intentions behind Evangeliya's sudden companionship and interest, Sigismund found himself returning back to the safety of duty, the mundane. "You're obscuring my vision, Lord Leidolf," Sigismund said to the lord, which was true. The large man took up a lot of space and coming into the conversation as he did made it impossible to see large areas of the hall, "If you are interested in speaking with Lady Koháry," he reverted back to her title not just because they were no longer alone but because he desired the space back, the space granted by formality that was sorely needed after, what he felt, was an intentional deception, "I ask both of you make your way to the side so that I can preform my duty."

Sigismund was not a fool. A man did not talk to a guard and a beautiful woman because they were interested in conversing with a guard. His free left hand clenched in anger at his side, a mixture of annoyance at the interruption by nobles who took liberties and, what he felt, was a young women seeking to amuse themselves at another's expense, but there was a lesson in there, to not let one's guard down around nobs, he was simply a fool for forgetting that lesson.

"And, no," Sigismund said, his hard eyes focusing back on Evangeliya's, "I speak to the Queen as I do you," which was true. He was always honest, always blunt, regardless of whom he spoke to. Just like with her, he simply held his tongue at times, but the tone and manner in which he spoke did not change. He was many things, but he was no sycophant.

ReverseTex deer

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