Realistic or Modern Long live the Queen

[Songbird500]

Claudia walked silently behind the Queen and the Captain, taking note of the guards that were still getting into position. As they arrived at the podium Claudia held back a bit and scouted around for another place for her to set up. She'd always been taught to stay close to her target or client but not so much that it was obvious you were with them. That was the guards job. Her job on the other hand was to remain hidden. Another face in the crowd that you wouldn't pay attention to until it was too late.

The lady in waiting had started making small talk with her and Claudia had contemplated ditching her. But despite how much Claudia hated small talk, the lady In waiting was a good cover.
"I've always lived in Slyven Lady Eileen"
As she answered she began her walk to a space beside the podium, hidden slightly in shadow so only half her face could be seen.
"What about yourself?" Claudia answered back, inviting the lady to join her.

MinTea

 

[MinTea]

Eileen watched as the guards were rushing to their positions, today would not be a good day to mess up, they had to defend the last remnant of the Sylvenis royal family. Arriving at the podium, the girl straightened up her dress and played with her hair; it wouldn't be just peasants here today, the nobles of the kingdom would surely be here to get a good look of Amara. Nobles that would be eligible and rich would be on her agenda today.

Eileen watched Claudia with a close eyes she seemed to be hiding in plain sight. Losing your sight on her could be a bad mistake for enemies or traitors. Unlike her though, the girl stayed out in the open, where she could get the most attention.

"I've always lived here as well, my family remains in Castle Grey." She proudly exclaimed.

Songbird500

 

[Rantos]

Ieva Hellion - The Show Begins
The square began to fill, slowly at first. Ieva had gotten there somewhat early, all things considered. Early enough at least to reserve himself a good spot to stand and watch her excellency when the time came. And so he stood with Hilda by his side, they watched as others filled the space outside the gates, floods of people, many who Ieva would consider strangers, and many friends. And as the attendance filled in row after row, file after file, Ieva took note of the faces of those who he knew as more than just part of the amorphous crowd. His followers greeted him, as he did the same. He was honored that so many of his dutiful daughters and sons could attend.

Ieva felt a tug on his arm, the call of attention as he heard the woman at his side speak. "So," Hilda began, "This new queen, have you met her yet?"

"No. Not yet. I've met her parents during celebrations in the castle, but when she was born I had long stopped having a reason to enter those gates." And to this response, Hilda had to stifle a laugh. Bitting her thumb, she aroused a confused look from Ieva as he asked what was wrong. "What's wrong," Hilda replied, "is that you plan on selling a bastard of a religion to a Queen you've never met, nor have a connection to. Have you no tact? She won't listen to a word you have to say." The woman had a point, and Ieva conceded that. "But consider this." Ieva began. "What publicity could be gained if I could convince the Queen to practice Ingredi-Uruk. It would-"

"It would rejuvenate this city with a passion unlike the Mother's Grace ever gave. Yes, I've heard all this before." The mocking tone Hilda took was playful. "And how are you sure she'll listen to you, a destitute commoner?" Hilda asked.

"She'll listen. It's not my first time convincing a woman as shaken as her. Families are torn apart every day, in the wake of tragedy is when people find religion most comforting. Doesn't matter if you're common blood or nobility, it's the same story told with different actors. She'll listen. But I believe, for now, it's our turn to listen." For the Queen was taking the stage now. Walking up to her podium, she began speaking, and Ieva was all ears.

 

[ManofManyRoles]

He seemed to soften his stance for just a moment at his queens order...and should his helmet been off she'd have seen a tired smile. Straightening up tight once more, he preformed his standard salute. "My liege, my life is yours...on your will, I live or die...so I will endeavor to live.". In his own way of speaking, it was his way of saying "I'll always be there.". Following her to her 'stage', he took position nearby her, silently scanning the crowd before them. A line of guards stood firm just in front of them all, situated in such a way that they weren't giving the feeling of 'approach at your own risk', but as a form of saying 'the house still stands.'.

As he looked out at the crowd, his gut had a strange mixture of happiness, for these people had come to see their new queen...and wariness, for among any of them could be a threat in the making prepared to strike her down. He ran a mental list in his head, he'd covered every entrance, he had archers posted in hiding, and he was as close as he could politely seem to the last sylvan...this would be fine...it had to be. The world could come falling down around them...but he'd still use his own body to protect his liege if he had too.

Regynleif

 

[Regynleif]

Amara's speech was going smoothly, for the first few minutes she was compassionate and sorrowful for the loss of her family though every time she mentioned them or named one of her family members her hands gripped the sides of the podium until her knuckles turned white. It was the only thing that kept her from letting the tears escape as she was reminded of her loss.

When she moved on to the reassurance that everything was under control and she was unshaken by her new position is when she began feeling fatigued, remembering she had skipped breakfast as she pushed through.

It was when she began the portion of the speech where she tried to give her people hope and confidence in the throne that her mouth became dry, to which she simply attributed to talking for so long without much pause or any water. But not soon after that was when the edges of her vision blurred and her speech slowed as she became unsteady.

With her legs weakening quickly, she reached a hand out to Fairmann beside her to help hold herself up. Something was wrong, something was very wrong. As she swayed, she heard multiple gasps from the crowd and then a few screams as everything went dark.

 

[ManofManyRoles]

As Amara spoke passionately and with hope, Fairmann simply stood as stoic as ever, as that's all he could do. He wasn't a politician or a noble, he wasn't a speaker...yes he could rally men behind him, but he doubted he could rally an entire country. It's when she reached out to him to hold herself up that his concern grew...and then it increased tenfold when she went down. What had just happened...he had prepared for everything...well at least outside threats. Had she been poisoned, had she even eaten this morning? His mind raced as he quickly reached out and caught her, holding her up. He could question what had happened later, his duty came first.

Keeping Amara supported, he pointed at the guard he had posted near them from the get-go, Duval. "Get a court physician, deliver them to her room immediately.". The guard gave a quick nod before departing, fairmann starting to walk out with his charge in as modest a carry as he could manage for her, to the point it was almost a bridal carry. He knew that Claudia and Eileen likely wouldn't be far behind him, he just had to have hope that this wasn't anything serious. Part of him realized he'd probably be scolded for removing her from her podium, be told it 'put the situation in a worse light than it really was'. It wasn't his job to care about something like though, it was his job to keep her safe.

 

[Songbird500]

Claudia had noticed the pride dripping from each word Eileen spoke. Her spot in court was important to her. So much so that you didn't have to be a spy to realise what lengths a person might go to to ensure they kept said spot. And while it would have been the polite thing to respond, Claudia had never been one to do the done thing, and merely nodded her head to show she'd heard the young girls statement. Claudia mused her matron would be disappointed in her. It was multi-tasking after all. And if you couldn't keep one simple handmaiden entertained while you assessed the rest of your surroundings then you deserved to wind up dead. But Claudia didn't have it in her today. Maybe it was the lack of sleep, another excuse that would have been unacceptable in the Order, or maybe it was the number of people and the weight of what was happening but Claudia knew she needed to be at her best.

Claudia watched with intent as the Queen began her speech. Not at the Queen herself but at the peoples reactions and postures. The smallest thing could give someone's intentions away. If their shoulders were more tense than expected or their eyes were twitching in a way that didn't make sense. Anything could be used against them. But in this case, it seemed that Claudia's focus on the people had been the wrong path to take. For It wasn't until they gasped at their Queen that Claudia even noticed she'd fallen. How could she have been so foolish. Claudia cursed herself as she watched Fairmann scoop her up in his arms and lift her away to her rooms. What had she missed? The people had been listening with such intent, with such admiration. What had she missed?!

 

[MinTea]

Eileen hadn't received a response from Claudia that would continue the conversation; she was distracted with watching the crowd now. Just a simple nod. It just made Eileen think, what spymaster couldn't multi-task, that was in her job description. 'Do what you must to see and not be seen?' Was the generalisation that stuck in her head when thinking of a spymaster. The queens speech had begun anyway, hopefully it would be more interesting than the crippled conversation.

The speech was average, did she not rehearse it before today? Her emotions up on the podium would be seen as weakness by The Delgoun; these savages would take a swipe at Amara given a chance. They could not risk weakness. Eileen knew Amara was playing a dangerous game, one that might cause blood, war and...death. She would have to be on the winning side if it ensued.

Smiling was all that she was tasked to do, but smiling was all she needed. It helped her represent herself and her family to the people of Sylven in a manner that showed kindness and generosity. Not wearing to much riches, (to belittle the people) but not wearing to little (to be seen at their level). 'If something went wrong...which it hopefully wouldn't, she would be able to show how she could handle herself. To the queen, the people and- forget it.' The thoughts raced through her head faster and faster.

Suddenly, it all began changing, the queen had a stumble and then collapsed into the guard. What had caused the change so quickly? It was all so quick, but Amara was taken from the podium and carried, in a strange way, by Fairmann. Knowing the people would be anxious about these circumstances, she knew she would have to do something. Going above her place, which she know she may be berated for, she walked up to the podium. "We apologise for any distress you may be feeling," Eileen let out an apologetic smile, "We will attempt to update you when we receive news."

 

[Rantos]

Ieva Hellion - Take the Stage
Well now, things seemed to be going well. Ieva watched and listened. He looked around the crowd, bore witness to the faces that admired the Queen, resented the Queen, envied the Queen and every emotion in between. It was nice to hear what she had to say, where her focus was, how she spoke about her now deceased parents certainly opened his eyes to how she felt about the whole situation. It was almost a real tear-jerker, if not for a few emotion-filled mistakes and misplaced moments of fervor. But my oh my, she was gripping her podium hard, this must have been hard on her. At first, Ieva pinned her nervousness down to a lack of preparation and emotions running high, but as he watched her begin to sway, and her breathing became erratic. And then, the swaying became more pronounced, more worrisome.

"Hilda, make sure no one leaves." Ieva spoke as he unhooked his arm from Hilda's and began moving closer to the raised podium, with each follower he passed he spoke the same words as what he feared would happen came to pass. The Queen fell from where she stood, into the arms of her shining knight who carried her off very promptly, left without a word. Another woman joined them, and then one more woman who gave a worryingly grim message. Curt and to the point, maybe a bit too much. She left too, and so did the guards, the stage was empty, some people panicked. Ieva organized what followers he could while making his way to the empty stage, he told them to calm the people down.

Powerful footsteps, leather slamming against flexing wood, the sound called the attention of those near the stage as Ieva made his presence known. One step after the next, climbing into view, his hands behind his back, long exaggerated footsteps demanded attention. And as he graced the stage, he spoke.

"The boy that seeks the approval and loving sentiment of their forefathers at the cost of his own wellbeing is truly foolish. But to teach a boy such as that how to think of themselves and the other in equal measure, to learn how to benefit all without damning themselves, and you grace the world with the greatest man. These were words from a dear mentor of mine, and I think the sentiment can ring true, especially for those of you who have ever met a child such as that." There was a resounding response from the audience as his followers spoke words of agreement, some nodding their head, and some clapping all the while.

"My name is Ieva Henrickson Hellion. Before I say anything more, I'll tell you that I've known the Queen since she was a child." A statement which wasn't untrue, technically. "I've known her lovely innocence to grow into blossoming kindness and blooming further I find within her, resoluteness. After the tragedy that befell us all, there has been one woman who was toiled endlessly, fitting into a mantle and finding trouble in the size. But we all would find trouble in taking such a mantle. Burning the candle at both ends she accepts her weakness and seeks to strive above them, for her sake, for our sake, for the sake of the kingdom and all that are blessed within her holy walls and immaculate territories, she toils for us!"

His movements started to become more frantic now, filled with a controlled fervor as he moved across the stage, taking long, slow, deliberate steps moving his hands in animated motions, letting his fingers graze the podium as he walked past, seemingly gliding, weightless. He continued. "So it is to you all I beg, when you remember this day, remember this day as the cruel reminder that she is our Queen, and we are her people, and for her people, she would do anything. She will grow, she will learn, she will fall and rise and through it all, we will remind by her side. Because she is our Queen, and we are her people!" A single fist in the air, a deep breath, some sweat hanging from the brow, all indications of his finish. And as Ieva spoke his last the audience cheered. First, it was just his followers, but others joined in time, and more followed suit even still. Peer pressure was a wonderful thing.

Ieva began to move off the stage, he greeted the audience, friends and strangers alike. What a wonderful opportunity he had been given, a perfect happenstance to elevate his plan. News of this event, and his speech, would spread, of that he had no doubt. And once the Queen saw the man who covered for her fall, surely she would be ever grateful, maybe even grant him an audience, and that was all Ieva needed. Now, with any luck, the Queen will be alive to hear the news. Stage fright was often enough to make one unconfident in their abilities falter under the pressure. But this felt like something more than simple stage fright.

 

[Regynleif]

"Doctor, come right away! The Queen has fainted!" The shrill voice of a panicked woman came resounding through the physicians hall and a young man raised his head in alarm. Said young man began quickly packing his medical bag with necessary universal tools before striding off to follow the woman who had summoned him to wherever his queen was.

Richard Almonute was a genius physician who had been appointed by the late King only a few years prior when he was just newly graduated from the Academy of Medical Arts at the fresh age of twenty. He had easily surpassed his peers, both young and old alike, with his intellect and it had impressed the King and Queen so much that they had personally sent an invitation to the man to join their court under their previous head physician as his successor.

Richard would have to have been a fool to decline, and he was no fool. If he had only known what was to come and how soon that successorship would be implented, however, he may have been less eager to take it.

Brought out of his own musings as he reached his destination, he was met with the sight of an unconscious Queen in the arms of her Captain. His mouth formed a serious and grim line as he wordlessly helped Fairmann lay the Queen down on the bed and began his examination immediately. She was flushed and perspiring lightly. A hand to her forehead just confirmed what he already knew with proof of a high fever. It was when he went to take her pulse, noting it was quite rapid, that he saw the discoloration on her palms. Bringing her hand to his face he gave if a sniff, ignoring any looks he might receive. The soft scent of jasmine greeted him, and something else... something ammonia like.

Eyes wide as he came to his realization with all of this information coming together, he whipped his head back to the posse that had accompanied her. "Grab whatever the last thing was that she had prolonged physical contact with and whoever else may have touched it. Shes been poisoned with a topical solution and I need to test it to figure out an antidote." His voice was firm and unwavering but internally the dread had settled over him. If he lost the last Sylvenis, he would surely not he far after her. God help him and his Queen.

 

[ManofManyRoles]

Fairmann hadn't wasted any time, driven by the single minded determination and goal of get the queen to her quarters for treatment. While he wasn't sure what the hell the doctor was doing...he wasn't a doctor himself, so he reserved his judgement. 'Anything she had prolonged contact with'...that narrowed it down. They had started the speech early this morning, there wasn't much she could have done. And the quarters had been under watch by someone, save for when he just arrived as the shift had been changing...which meant...the blasted podium. Shouldering his way past a few of the staff that had assembled to aid, he gave the barking order of to move out of his way. Common sense dictated standing in the way of a man in full plate and obviously short of temper was a good way to catch 'sword to throat-itis', so they obviously moved.

Moving quickly down the hall and towards where they had begun, the comfortable weight of his armor was enough to keep him from losing it at this point, a constant friend and reminder of who he was, and what his duty was. Barging out into the open air again, he motioned two of the guards nearby who had come onto stage shortly after leva over. "If anyone so much as touched that podium...no, got NEAR that podium, I want you to escort them after me. If they refuse, inform them that this is for the betterment of their health. Now both of you, move it!". The guards gave a quick nod and salute, before splitting up, each heading for the two had been near the podium...Leva and Eileen.

Not caring for any of the looks he'd receive from the crowd, he grabbed the podium and lifted it with ease. It wasn't heavy...just awkward to carry as it was. It had been designed and made to be set up and then broken down, not hauled off as is...not that it really mattered to him at this moment. Getting a firm grip on it with metal gauntlets, he started off with it back towards the queens quarters with as much speed as he could muster blasted podium or not. Making his way back to the queens quarters, he made it clear with a few barked orders to get out of his way, the orders quickly obliged. Placing the podium down on the floor near the good doctor, he motioned towards it. "This is the only thing I'm aware of that she's held great contact with all morning. Check it as you see fit, and my gauntlets if you must."

The guards

The duo of guards had split off and started for their respective targets. The one who had started off for eileen had a considerably easier time. "Lady eileen, the captain has requested your presence immediately towards the queens chambers. He reports it's for your health and safety and he didn't seem to be in a pleasant mood...I suggest you go as he requests, ma'am."

The guard who went after leva had been forced to gather a few of the others in order to make headway through the crowd and get to the man who'd given his own impromptu speech on the podium. "Mister hellion? Captain Ochinia requests you to go after him to the queens chamber as of this instant. This isn't a negotiable matter he reports...". The guard leaned forward for a bit to whisper solely into leva's ear, lest he panic the entire crowd. "The captain has stated that your health is on the line in this matter". Straightening up, he gave a nod. "I will gladly escort you that way sir, but we must leave now. It is bad practice to leave Captain Ochinia waiting."

MinTea Rantos

 

[MinTea]

Ever since the Queens' speech, her cogs had begun churning, she could use this situation to her advantage. Yes the queen was ill, but the understanding that Eileen being there when she woke up (if she woke up) might make her believe that the young woman had her best interests at heart. It's not that she saw everything as an opportunity, but she knew if you wanted to survive in court, you would have to make choices and decisions that would play to your benefit. It sometimes made her feel guilty... but knowing that in the end her family would be safe, it made her forget her grievances.

Walking through the windy halls of the castle, she came to a sudden stop. "Lady Eileen, the captain has requested your presence immediately" The girl let out a puzzled face towards the two bothersome guards, "towards the queens chambers. He reports it's for your health and safety and he didn't seem to be in a pleasant mood...I suggest you go as he requests, ma'am." Nodding to the guards, she began her quick pace to Amaras' room. Had she come down with what Amara had would bring disdain on her position at court. She would be seen as a disease infested rat who was unclean. She didn't hold as much prestige as the queen.

Arriving at the Queens' suite, she knocked and entered. It was so lush, so flawless, so beautiful, Eileen had lost herself within all of the colours of the room for a couple of seconds before remembering why she was here. Wandering over to Fairmann, she let out a curtsy and said, 'Hello Fairmann, you called."

ManofManyRoles

 

[Rantos]

Ieva Hellion - To the Castle
Tags: ManofManyRoles
The stage was left empty, but the show had yet to end. Down in the crowd, Ieva spoke more personally. As men and woman alike began asking questions. Asking about the Queen, her situation and his relation with the kingdom. And as they asked, Ieva answered in broad terms, doing his best to not give away the fact that he was unclear on the Queen's true state of being. Though he wasn't worried at first, there was a moment when the same knight that had carried off the Queen not long ago took to the stage again, grabbing the podium in a haste and moving off with it. And that was a good clue to be concerned. Untactful, to give such high importance to a mundane item hinted that something was amiss.

More time had passed, more questions had been answered, and a bit of proselytizing had been done. There was a sound from behind, a clink that rang all too familiar, armor, not heavy, light metal clanking against small chains. Coming closer and closer, pushing through the crowd. It was discerning. Enough so to bring Ieva's hand to his waist where his weapon strapped tightly against skin. Eyes wide, ready to pounce, until he heard his name, and his moment of irrationality was quelled.

A guard, telling Ieva that he had been summoned. A little earlier than Ieva expected, but that's fine. At least, that's what he thought until he was given the reason. And with that reason in tow, Ieva didn't really have any reason to object, so he followed. He followed the guard to the castle proper and all the while asked. "I'm not sure what your captain wants with me, but given your demanding vagueness, I can only hope what is threating my life isn't your Captain himself." It was a poor attempt at making conversation, but an attempt all the same. Ieva followed it up by then asking. "How fares the Young Queen's health?"

 

[Songbird500]

Claudia followed swiftly behind Fairmann and cursed herself for not noticing it before. The effects of the poison, while subtle, were there. And Claudia was supposed to be trained in all things subtle. As they sped to the Queens room Claudia thought over all the ways a poison could have reached the young Slyvenis' system. She'd heard of a new drug that could be dissolved in water and should anything be washed in it and then worn, would be an almost undetectable way of submission with damaging effects. The only problem with such a drug, was that anyone that handled the clothes after infection would also experience the effects, and Claudia had yet to hear of any others taking ill. So it had to be something else. The Queen hadn't touched the water on the podium and all the food had already been tested, Claudia had made sure of it. Which only left the podium itself. Under any rationale, if you could poison someone's clothes then there was no reason you couldn't also poison an object you could hold. With this assumption in mind Claudia began to think of all the drugs she knew and if any of them could be applied in such a way.

Upon their arrival to the Queens bedchamber, Claudia watched with a silent intentness as the young physician set to work. He too was quick to uncover that a poison was at work before ordering that Fairmann retrieved the last thing the Queen had had prolonged physical contact with. Claudia trusted that the Queens guard would retrieve the podium in an orderly manner and turned her sights on the physician. He was scared. And rightly so. The sole heir of the Slyvenis line was ill in front of him and if she died under his watch he might very well lose his own life. But he was staying calm and firm, if he could keep this up and have a level head their Queen, and he, would stand a much better chance of surviving.

Fairmann was quick back with the podium in hand and placed it down on the floor near the good doctor. He motioned towards it and relayed that said item was the only thing the Queen had had contact with all morning, offering up his gauntlets as extra samples for the poison. It wasn't long after this that Eileen arrived. A smart move by the Queen's guard, Claudia had also noticed Eileen standing by the podium and they couldn't leave anything to chance. Claudia circled around the doctor, listing in her mind any poisons that could be topical. She couldn't however, whittle it down until more tests had been run and for this she would rely on the physician.

"So Doctor....What is your next step?"

Regynleif

 

[ManofManyRoles]

Leva's guard
The guard was about as stiff as one would expect from a royal guard letting an unknown commoner into the castle, but orders were orders. At leva's comment, he looked over his shoulder to respond as he walked. "Not unless you've given him reason too...Have you? I am not kept in the current loop of her health, as it is not my place to know such things at this moment. I am a guard, not the captain, nor anyone else of such importance.". That was all he offered, before heading inside the quarters with his escorted man.

Fairmann
Captain Ochinia turned from the doctor to the two new arrivals, as Claudia was more than capable of holding conversation with the doctor. "Lady Eil-". He stopped in his moment of speech as he had to double take at the second person here. This was not one of the castle staff, nor anyone who frequented the castle, which instantly made him a possible threat, podium and poison or not. After all, who was to say there was not more factions suddenly vying for the throne, and not just the one at the borders...not every enemy coordinated. "I don't believe I know who you are....". Looking to the guard who had escorted him in, he spoke again with a tone that would attribute to a glare. "I feel like I may have been unclear on 'no one pass a line' when I gave orders this morning...otherwise, we wouldn't have someone from outside of the castle here...Blast it, was he at least searched?". The guard gave a 'no sir' before making a few steps towards leva and muttering an 'apologies' before starting to pat the man down as the captain started again.

"Not a word of this leaves your lips outside this room, any of you. We have reason to believe the podium was laced with a poison of some sort, and anyone who was in contact with it may very well be afflicted, and may start to fall in the same situation as our queen. I'm not sure if vicinity itself affects it, or if you had to touch it...but I'm not taking chances. This is considered confidential information to all of you...and while a good majority of you may not be under my direct command, I will not hesitate to hold you accountable should word leave this room. Now then...when the doctor is prepared, I'm sure he'll be willing to test you all as well."

Rantos Regynleif Songbird500 MinTea

 

[Rantos]

Ieva Hellion - To the Castle
Interacted with: ManofManyRoles Close to: Regynleif Songbird500 MinTea
Ieva felt bad for the man escorting him. Stuck within an anxious limbo where the base situation was made known to him, yet the ascension of events remains above his paygrade. To think that a guard of the Queen would say that he does not have the rank to understand her health. Could this be the vague visage of mistreatment? A perfect time for a bit of proselytizing.

"Sounds to me like the hierarchical system remains as strong as when I left it. I can understand not telling us, those outside the sanctity of the castle walls, but it must be anxiety-inducing to be left in the dark in regards to the Queen's health, to who you swore fidelity." He was walking side by side with the guard now, looking at his face, engaging him in a one-sided conversation. "Problems like this are in no short supply. Organizations like the Mother's Grace reveal in hierarchy, that's why I left. That's why I joined Ingredi-Uruk."

And before he knew it, Ieva was face to face with two men, two women, and the Young Queen. In his conversation, Ieva had lost himself and didn't realize he had stepped into an occupied room until he had already taken a few steps within. He recognized most of the occupants as those who were on the stage at the time, and the one he did not recognize made his job clear enough through his actions at the Queen's side.

Then, the man in more elaborate armor spoke. A berating tone and the command for a full-body search. It seems that even though we're concerned for Ieva's safety it was clear to him that they were still wary, which was understandable. He continued to prattle on, and Ieva listened, not to the words, but the emotion. He'd heard it all before, a taciturn officer could only say so much before they start repeating the same script with different words. All the while, Ieva assumed the stance that would make it easiest for the guard to search him. A similar stance to the one Hilda forced upon him every time they met. And in repeating this motion he could hear Hilda's voice so clearly, and it struck Ieva that some warning was due. He spoke to the guard in a hushed tone right as he began his search.

"In the interest of full transparency, I have a weapon strapped to my side, under my dress. We live in dangerous times, and surely a man like yourself can understand how a weapon can feel so natural we oft forget when it's at our sides. Please remove it in a way that causes no alarm so I may proceed with this, test. As it were." Not the best foot to start off on, but surely such reasonable people wouldn't do anything rash. And as Ieva had this thought, he also considered this room was the filled with the selfsame people who left the stage in a tizzy, and the audience confused and anxious in a moment when calm was needed most. He was sure he'd be fine.

 

[MinTea]

Eileen had introduced herself with a proper manner to Fairmann, so when he stopped talking mid introduction it puzzled her. What was he looking at that was more important at this time? 'Lady Eil-' was all he managed to get out before staring at something behind her; what was it?

Eileen turned to view the mysterious thing behind her; it was a strange looking man. Something didn't feel right about him. He looked like he wanted something, or like he was going to disrupt castle life with some new ideas. She knew that if he threatened her authority within these walls, she would have to take care of him. The girl had worked to hard, for someone with an opportune moment, to bring her down. Not only that, he looked similar, eerily similar. Unknowing and unbelieving of how she could of met this man, the thoughts that clouded her mind quickly cleared.

Fairmann began asking the guards questions about this man. She watched. Sitting next to the queen, Eileen planted her hand on the queens, 'I am here for you, don't stress.' For the first time in years, she had felt real concern for another human being besides herself and her family. Why did she care all of a sudden when she was bashing her outfit choice in the morning?

In a sudden moment, Fairman began speaking, "Not a word of this leaves your lips outside this room, any of you." Eileens' lips pursed, "We have reason to believe the podium was laced with a poison of some sort, and anyone who was in contact with it may very well be afflicted, and may start to fall in the same situation as our queen. I'm not sure if vicinity itself affects it, or if you had to touch it...but I'm not taking chances. This is considered confidential information to all of you...and while a good majority of you may not be under my direct command, I will not hesitate to hold you accountable should word leave this room. Now then...when the doctor is prepared, I'm sure he'll be willing to test you all as well." Eileen had a strong opinion about this. Why tell a stranger when he is:

a) unknown
b) could use this information against the people inside this room

No wonder Amara got poisoned, Fairmann was getting reckless. "You get careless Fairmann," She arose from the queens side and stormed over to the man "Telling of such information to us when there are unknown characters in the room. We would've found out if he was poisoned soon enough, if he had shown such symptoms. You never know how people can use these things to their own benefit. You are the reason the last remaining Sylven is on her deathbed! "

ManofManyRoles Rantos

 

[Regynleif]

Amara
"Wake up Mara. Wake up!" A strong but gentle voice called out to the girl, who simply groaned in response as she rolled over in her bed, peeking one eye open to see who it was the intruded upon her sleep.

"Alphy, do you even know what time it is? The moon is still high in the sky! Why are you here in my room disturbing me?" Amara glared half-heartedly at the young man who stood at the side of her bed wearing a large and cheeky grin. "Hey now, it's the last night we'll see each other for a little while before I get back from my expedition. I thought we could go raid the kitchen and make some of 'Mara's marshmallow surprise'. What do you say?"

Amara groaned again but was already in the process of sitting up and getting out of bed. It was true, tomorrow her brother left to check on the border towns near Delgoun, which would be a couple of months of travel at least. "Alright, alright, you already made sure Cook Shari has turned in for the night I'm assuming?" Receiving an affirmative from her brother, she left with him and padded barefoot down to the kitchens, their arms linked together.

Unfortunately it was about halfway there when Amara's body began to feel as if it were on fire and her breathing became ragged with pain. Dropping to her knees, she wrapped her arms around herself in some effort to protect herself from the pain. "Alphy...Alphy something's wrong..." She looked up for her brother but found him nowhere in sight. Continuing to call out for him, or anyone really, she pulled herself to her feet and used the wall to support herself as she searched for anyone who could call a doctor but no one came. Somehow she knew she was alone, that there was no one to hear her pleas, because they were all gone. She had already lost everyone. She would live alone in this castle, and die alone in it too.




"-ver know how people can use these things to their own benefit. You are the reason the last remaining Sylven is on her deathbed! "

Amara had woken with a start from the fever induced dream to the sounds of commotion and her Lady in Waiting yelling at someone. Closing her eyes tight against the light, she reached a hand to place against the pounding of her head and called out into the room. "ENOUGH! I am unsure what all has transpired while I have been... indisposed...but I will not have infighting in my own chambers!" She had meant to sound strong and commanding, but her voice wavered under all of the difficulty she was having simply existing at the moment.


Doctor Almonute

The man himself had been ready to scold those who had gathered here for bickering in their Queen's presence given her state before she herself called out to them. A slight jump came from the man as he was not expecting her to regain consciousness, but he quickly recovered and placed a hand against her forehead to check her fever yet again.

Consciousness was good, consciousness meant..."Your majesty, it would appear as though you have been poisoned. However given your wakefulness and the fact that your fever is breaking, I don't believe enough of it got into your system to do any real damage." The doctor sighed with relief. Most likely the effects had only been so exaggerated because of her Majesty's naturally weak constitution and the stress from the past week. Looking over to the group that had formed he gave a reassuring smile. "For now we can relax as our Majesty will not be leaving us any time soon. I will monitor her throughout the night to make sure nothing changes, but whoever else here that may have come into contact with the poison can rest assured that they will be just fine."

 

[Songbird500]

Claudia had brought her fingers to the temples of her head and started to massage. With Eileen acting so erratic, the unidentified individual admitting to a weapon in the presence of the Queen and the poisoning itself, the room was filled with a chaotic energy. Alongside this, the little sleep Claudia had received the night before was making it increasingly harder for her to keep her head on straight. The sudden interruption of the Queens voice was both a blessing and a shock. Claudia hadn't expected Amara to wake up so quickly but was relieved that the poison hadn't had detrimental effects. It was clear she wasn't at 100% capacity, which was only to be expected, but she admired her Queen for taking charge while in such a vulnerable position. Claudia nodded at the physicians remarks and the tension she hadn't even realised was in her shoulders, disappeared. Claudia flicked her eyes up at Fairmann "Perhaps we should talk once you're finished in here?"

Regynleif ManofManyRoles MinTea Rantos

 

[ManofManyRoles]

The guard
The guard gave a nod towards leva, obviously appreciating the honestly. After a few moments of work, he freed the blade from the mans person, holding it up for the captain to notice before lowering it.

Fairmann
Fairmann didn't seem phased by Eileen...that is until she brought his ability to protect Amara into question. Before he could even respond, the words died as amara spoke and made herself clear. Disarming anything he had prepared to say, he gave his salute to her before looking around the assembled members. "I will of course, stand guard through the night as well, though this does bode well I think.". Looking to claudia, he gave a short nod in agreement, before turning to look at his guard and 'guest'. "Sir, I would request that you stay the evening in one of the guest rooms so that we can monitor your health, just as much as the ladies. Your weapon will be witheld from you, and you will have it returned after you leave the grounds. We will post a guard or so outside your chambers. These are obviously hazardous times, today has shown this. It is simply wiser for you to stay here and be monitored for the night, so we can assure your safety.". With the way the captain spoke and held himself, it was hard to if he was sincere or if he had ulterior reasoning for the decision, his voice conveying little emotion. From beneath his full helmet, his eyes studied Eileen for a moment, before turning his focus on Amara. "If that will be all from all parties, it may be best if we dismiss those who are not needed her...the queen requires rest."

Regynleif Rantos Songbird500 MinTea

 

[MinTea]

She could tell what she had said effected Fairmann; he seemed to be most bothered when her comments of the queen came up. But what could Eileen do? She was angry and could feel the venom pulsating through her body. Everything she might, may and will say she knows that she will probably regret later.

Suddenly a shaking demand boomed from the queen. It had shocked Eileen, a few seconds ago everyone was afraid Amara would lose her life, but now she had woken up with the power of the great Gods. The Child Queen still looked weak, but she knew how to stand her ground and be authoritative even in the most dire of situations.

"I...I'm sorry your Majesty," She glided over to Amara and curtsied to the floor, "I just fear we would lose someone so important to the kingdom, the people and me." It's not that she had suddenly become nice, but it had struck her, sly comments and rude manners would not get her in favour with this queen. Although she had begun her ladyship on the wrong foot, maybe she could change Amara's probable thoughts on her this way.

Eileen smiled and arose, listening to Claudia and Fairmann. They were both suggesting ideas and barking orders. "Let us hope, Claudia does a better job at protecting the queen than you, Fairmann." The girl whispered to him extremely quickly as she walked to the door. "Should I also escort Leva to the room, accompanied by guards of course!"

ManofManyRoles Songbird500 Regynleif Rantos

 

[Rantos]

Ieva Hellion - Bearing Witness
Tags: MinTea Regynleif Songbird500 ManofManyRoles
The events that flashed before him moved so quickly, almost incomprehensible. As he stood closer to the door than to anyone else, he watched with wide eyes, the discourse, fingers pointing and blame shifting, absolute disharmony that crescendoed with the sudden voice of the Young Queen. So sudden and commanding it caused Ieva to jump in his skin, just a bit; just enough to cause him to reach for his side, only to pat against cloth and skin, thankfully. Then Young Queen demanded silence, an order that Ieva was already in the midst of following. And throughout it all, Ieva couldn't help but feel as though he should not have been here for any of this. It was certainly, awkward, and the proposition of leaving was something he rather enjoyed.

A young woman, offered to escort Ieva along with a guard, to which he agreed to her company with a smile and a nod. And as Ieva began taking his leave, he spoke. "My Queen," and as he spoke he bowed. "I pray you recover in due time. I wish to conduct a better introduction when that time comes." And with his good will spoken, Ieva took his leave, taking a few paces into the hall and taking in the hallway air as if he had been deprived for days. This whole situation was moving, far too quick. Was Ieva getting old? Was time beginning to catch up with him? Oh, what a horror to imagine.

Ieva waited for both the young woman and the guard to leave, and upon seeing the young woman, he removed his hat and gave a small bow, a tilt of the head. "My good lady, well met. My name is Ieva Hellion, and for better or worse, I seem to be in your care for the timing being." Truly, he was wary. He didn't want to be, in fact, he wanted nothing more than to trust the decisions made by the people around him. But he couldn't understand why. If he was fine, why not let him onto the streets? If he was untrustworthy, why keep him in the castle? It was all odd. Maybe, a watchful eye and careful ear would be needed going forward, maybe, maybe just for the time being. Or maybe, these whispers in his head was nothing more than paranoia gripping as it always does.

"I'll follow you, as I don't really have the precedence to take these halls by myself without getting hopelessly lost." Once they began walking, Ieva would speak once more. "This has all been quite overwhelming, has it not? I take it you're close to the Young Queen, so this must be especially hard for you, no?" He asked earnestly.

 

[Regynleif]

Amara didn't bother reading into or really acknowledging any well wishes that were made toward her, as she was preoccupied with the feeling of her skin on fire and the pounding in her head that refused to abate. After what felt like an eternity, but was rather only a few minutes, her chambers had been emptied of a good portion of excess bodies and she felt considerably less stifled.

Opening her eyes slowly against the light she saw who remained. The doctor of course, Fairmann as she had no doubt would not leave her side right now, and Claudia.

Claudia was an enigma to Amara. She couldn't tell what the woman wanted, why she had offered her servitude as her spymaster, or really knew anything about the woman. Her appointment had been...impulsive, to say the least. Amara had never really considered herself exceptionally intuitive, everything she could read from others had been painstakingly learned through trial and error. But with Claudia, there had been something different, something Amara was simply drawn to and before she knew it she had offered the position to the woman.

And now it seemed her skills would be tested. Looking at the doctor that fret over her, taking vitals and such, she murmured an order to leave for now to which he gratefully accepted as he needed to grab a few more supplies. Once he exited the room she slowly sat up and faced her left and right hands.

"I need to know everything that happened while I was unconscious. Who was that man? How long was I out for? Why on Earth was everyone yelling?"

ManofManyRoles Songbird500

 

[ManofManyRoles]

The guard
A silent figure through it all, he simply started to lead them towards one of the more humble guest rooms in the castle, his expression unreadable. It was impossible to tell what was on the mind of the stone faced young man, though from the way his eyes jumped to the lady in waiting and the newcomer betrayed that whatever was in his head was on the two of them, for better or worse.

Captain Ochinia
Glaring at Eileen as she left, he stood tight lipped until it was only three in the room. Turning towards his queen he gave his usual salute, his fist to his chest, before relaxing to speak. "I apologize, my queen. Under any other circumstance, I would not allow an outside force into the castle...but per your doctors orders, I brought in anyone who may have had contact with the poisoned podium. He was...unfortunately, one of them. Why he was in contact with the podium is something I'm unaware of but I intend to find why....". Though his voice was level and respectfully as always, the underlying tone was there, something amara would know very well by now. I trust him as far as I can throw him.

"I did not time how long you were out...Perhaps Lady claudia will have that answer. The yelling was....Lady in Waiting Eileen believes me incompetant, and too forthcoming with information to a situation. I stand by my choice on saying what I said...if I do not give some thoughts, the man was free to form his conclusion, possibly far worse than what actually happened....I will accept a dagger in the leg, before I accept a sword to the throat...if the analogy pleases you."

Regynleif Songbird500

 

[MinTea]

Eileen followed the stone faced guard; he showed no emotion which made her uneasy. He was leading Leva to the more humble part of the castle, the luxuries that others would receive would be little to none in these rooms.The silky-smooth beds, the big, oak wardrobes and the views of the kingdom were very lacklustre here, failing to grace these rooms. It was also closer to the kitchens and the maids chambers meaning he would hear them at all times of the night. Eileen remembered when she had to retire to this area of the castle...how embarrassing it had been to her. It was as if she had been a peasant.

"I know your kind, they come and go in this castle all the time, thinking they can handle the lives of the nobility," She let out a short giggle, and turned her face to Leva, "If you want to survive here, you need to be more than an opportunist and have a plan." Although her words were chosen to threaten, she knew an outwards attack on him would not be beneficial. She had seen him in the crowds earlier, rubbing elbows with quite a large majority of the crowd; what was his current business at the castle?

Rantos ManofManyRoles