Fantasy secret betrayal [closed]

[Woody.]

Spoiler: Elias

fc: julian morris

name; Elias
Age: 24
Family name: The house of Edem
The symbol will be an Owl
Motto: Fear not the Dark itself, but what may lurk within it
Currently: he has no last name, and keeps his family name a much needed secret to hide his identity.
The house of Edem was the Family who had tried to attack the Kingdom, but had failed. By doing so the Family and their subjects were cast across the seas where they were said to be long forgotten.

The King Thorin and his Queen Augustine had finally arrived, with their personal guard in tow. The city was rather bleak compared to Valar which King Thorian reign from. The Queen certainly made it clear her tastes in what she considered, the country side, were unimpressed. The mountains that towered near by made it all the colder, and the cold winds that hit her face would be a reminder to never allow her to visit such a place again. When the gates had opened, and the royal brigade had paraded through the courtyard, a certain knight by the name of Elias, had followed close behind the King's Guard that escorted the King and Queen. He was still young, at a 24, but he would some day become knight of higher status. Or that was the plan in progress. An older knight had taken in Elias like a lost child, and had given him a place within the walls. With no name, or history Elias was welcomed among his fellow squires, which eventually brought him to now. A successful knight of the king and queen, who would never know his name.

But following both King and Queen was the prince. A rather slender man, with blond locks that matched both his parents, and eyes crystal blue that held all the girls attentions. He was a stunning boy, but for Elias, he looked too pretty to be a man. He had no calloused hands, or scars to prove his heroism. The only time he'd pick up a sword would to practice on a squire, who was too scared to scar the boy in case his mother was around.

Elias was in charge of watching the prince. Though he was not of the King's Guard, he was similar to the boy's age, even if the boy was older than he was by a few years. It would have been a good pair to become friends, but due to a range of personalities, Elias wouldn't dare align himself to a spoiled brat. Most certainly, a brat who cried to mother whenever he didn't have his way. "The King and Queen of Valar!" A man from the country announced, and the crowd bent the knee like any would. The Family that they had come to visit had done the same, with the Father of the head of the family spoke, "We welcome you, my King and Queen. May your stay here be pleasant." The King laughed and said, "Aye, this is home alright!"

The King had been sent to this part of country when he was a boy, to learn about his kingdom. That was when Thorin and his friend had become friends, and as far as calling each other brother. They had fought wars together, and in the end fought off an enemy that would flee into the darkness. Their enemy long gone, and only heard of trying to recollect their power within their own country. It was anarchy across the sea, but Thorin would no longer worry about them as they were no longer considered a country to begin with.

When both men hugged, the rest of the citizens rose to their feet once more, and a pair of girls caught his eye. The Family's youngest daughters. Close in age, but both unwed. It was rumored that the older daughter would be wed to the Prince and both families can finally connect. She was fair and beautiful, she looked like she belonged within royalty. She wore dresses that were considered elegant in this part of the country. While in Valar, it'd still be considered less formal. Having to live in the colder areas of the country, a lot of the attire had to require furs, and longer sleeves in which this daughter wore.
The second daughter, however, didn't fit the type of noble. Instead, she looked like any commoner on the streets. The only reason Elias knew she was a nobleman's daughter were her eyes. They showed no fear, and in fact had an air of authority to them. As if, whoever questioned her would certainly have a hard time convincing her to do anything she didn't want to do. Elias had seen this once before, in his sister's eyes. Where you didn't care about how anyone else thought of you, and continued on living. Those were the eyes he saw in her, and he'd certainly have to keep an eye on her.

"Elias." spoke his captain, Jerik. Which started Elias out of his examination.

The older man laughed, and stated, "There are the daughters. Some say that one of them has a knack for swordsmen ship." Elias looked at him and almost scoffed. A woman with a sword? Never. He wasn't against it, but it was just unheard of in this country. "Perhaps you should make your presence known. Maybe you could be a suitor?" Jerik teased, it was known that knights didn't marry noblewomen. That would be ridiculous idea, yet- he did admire the younger sister. She stood out from the rest, and he would certainly have to introduce himself later. If she truly did wield a sword, he'd want to witness how well she could handle such a weapon.

"Enough kidding, Jerik. I have a prince to follow." Elias mumbled, in feign hostility. Jerik was as close as a father he'd get in an unfamiliar country, and Elias appreciated any attention he received from the older knight. It just raised his chances of getting close to the King.

The Prince had introduced himself to both the girls, paying extra mind to the older, "A pleasure." In which he took her hand and placed a gentle kiss on the pale skin. Elias wanted to gag at how gentle the prince sounded. He knew the prince well, and he doubted that the girl would be admiring the prince or his "charm". Elias had gotten off his own horse, and felt the pain in his legs after riding for weeks.

 

[xCeleste]

Spoiler: Julianna

face claim: Katie McGrath

name; Julianna Highland
Age: 20
Family name: The house of Highland
Emblem: Grey winged stag; forest green flag
Motto: Deeds not Words
Parents: Lord Castor and Lady Penelope Highland
Siblings: Edmund, Rowan and Cohan (twins), Astrid and Kiernan.

The sea will flood the crow’s lungs, the truth learned; the stag will burn.

A long bellowing horn pulled Julianna out of her trance and she looked up blinking to the yellow sunlight shining through the trees of the Godswood. Her breath turned white and hung before it disappeared, the crisp air bringing slight pink to her pale features. She blinked and stared at the face carved into the ancient tree, praying for more than cryptic words. To show her what this King wanted with her father and family; the heaviness of her heart growing. Her sister dreamed of weddings and tournaments, her brothers of honor. They could have it and keep it for themselves.

Koww. A crow flew by in her response and she got to her feet, locating the worn and blunted sword she had been practicing with earlier that morning. Julianna scooped it up, finding her hiding spot and covering it with brush and leaves, several trees deep before returning to the clearing. She pushed the grass and bramble off her under skirts, a simple wool white garment she stripped down to when she practiced fighting as another long bellow rang through the woods.

She was running late.

Grabbing her grey dress and furs, Julianna began to run through the woods, returning to the fortress of Veritas as she dressed herself. The dress was plain, but she had a nicer cream colored one waiting in her room her mother had insisted on for the banquet this evening. Good judgment had caused her mother to agree to allow her wait until the last minute to wear the thing; a cream dress on her youngest daughter would never make it and would leave the girl freezing while they waited for their guests' arrival.

Julianna snuck into the crowd gathering near the gate mostly undetected, her siblings already near the front and talking amounts themselves as they awaited their parents to appear. She pushed her way forward next to her oldest, and favorite, brother, Edmund who towered over her, a force to be reckoned with in his furs and dark leathers. Five of the six Highland children favored their father, with grey-blue eyes and raven black waves that their mother had stopped attempting to control years ago. Only the oldest daughter stood out, with her auburn hair and green eyes; the only child who looked like their mother’s southern family. They often had teased her about her looks when they were children, being an intruder or child of the forest who had stolen their actual sister and replaced her. Astrid had taken the teasing and formed into a shield; she was the fairest of the siblings and often considered herself better then them and Julianna suspected she would like nothing more than to claim no relationship to them at times.

Edmund grinned at her appearance as he took in the simple long-sleeved grey dress and brown furs. Julianna was still struggling to catch her breath and pulled her long black hair over one shoulder, picking leaves from the ends aimlessly. Edmund bent forward slightly so only Julianna could hear him, “You’ve got some mud…and it seems a little blood, on your face dear sister.”

Julianna sighed and wiped at her face, pulling her arm away to find spots of blood had stained the wool material near her wrist. “Gods…this is a new gown. Mother is going to disown me.” She hissed and Edmund laughed, drawing a stern look from Astrid, who was busy smoothing her hair down. “Aye, she should have disowned you long ago. The gown looks like it belongs to a serving maid, the blood only improves it.”

The long low bellow from the horn of the watcher rang again, and this time the people became quiet as the Lord and Lady of Veritas entered the courtyard of their home. Lord Castor still had the stance and stoic face of a warrior, his hand always fair in the affairs of his land and his children. His wife, the Lady Penelope, wore the signs of a beauty worn with age, her auburn pulled fully back in a decorative bun and braids; a style from her home she had never truly let go. Julianna observed Astrid had her hair in half up with a similar style of braids before noticing the dark look her mother was sending her and quickly averted her gaze. That morning her mother had brushed Julianna’s hair herself, stroke after stroke until it shined, and she was satisfied. Hours had passed and only left the hair to return its natural wavy appearance. Their parents stopped near their children, her father taking his place next to Edmund as the King and Queen of Valar and their party arrived at their home.

Julianna fell into a kneel with the rest of the crowd, watching the travel worn boots of knights and royalty arriving, glancing up to see the parade of colors these visitors from the South wore. While the Highlands and their household were gathered under their slightly worn green and grey banners, the winged stag dancing in the wind, the flag of the King and Queen stood bold and fresh, snapping above the marching feet. Julianna watched her Lord Father straighten first and a moment of quiet filled the air as the King dismounted and approached him. They embraced and the sound of laughter rang out from both men and their wives, as King Thorin threw an around her Father’s shoulder.

Lord Castor gestured towards the crowd and imposing stone keep behind them, “Welcome, King Thorin, to Veritas. You remember, Lady Penelope,” The Lady of Veritas curtsied and exchanged greetings with the King and Queen. “And you have met Edmund, my oldest, though he may not remember. Rowman and Cohan our twins, and Kiernan, my youngest son.” His eyes shifted to his two daughters, and a gentle smile formed, “Astrid…”

“Greetings and welcome, Your Majesty.” Astrid curtsied low and smiled sweetly at the King and Queen. Julianna felt her eyes roll slightly and as her eyes roamed the crowd around the royals. Her eyes met a young knight’s eyes in the crowd who had been looking at her and her eyes narrowed. She replaced her exasperated look to a cold look she had learned to display in front of others, and only looked away as she heard her father’s voice, “And my youngest daughter, Julianna.” “Your Majesties,” Julianna smiled lightly and curtsied, knowing how she compared to the radiant Astrid.

The Prince had been quietly onlooking but made his greetings next and Julianna’s lip twitched into a smirk as she noticed Astrid practically swoon. Julianna felt fascinated by his features, watching his eyes linger on her sister. He’s a pretty boy, he looks like a doll or like the princes out of Astrid’s terrible romance books. She wondered if he could even hold a sword when he turned to her and saw his eyes wander over her plain dress and tangled hair, and she gave him a weary smile as she curtsied and allowed him to kiss her hand, her stomach churning slightly from the first impression of him. He had caused her no cause for alarm, but Julianna trusted her instincts and decided she would keep a close eye on him.

The prince quickly turned his attention back to Astrid whose face was now pink from blushing and the formalities drew to a close, as her father and the King began to make their way towards the main hall. Before completing leaving out of sight, King Thorin turned back to the Highland children and waved her arms “I forgot to mention. We brought gifts for you all! Your pick of some of you fine horses we brought with us. I plan on hunting while I’m here, and I need to see if Castor’s children can ride real beasts, or only the donkeys up North.” Juliana noticed her father’s face stayed pleasantly blank, though a slight twitch of his lips showed what he thought of the gift.

The servants from Veritas began to meet and talk to those now entering the tail end of the procession and the stable boys were bring the weary horses to their new homes. Julianna turned to look at the horses the King had mentioned when she heard the prince speaking to Astrid, his voice thick and fake as he spoke to her sister, “Would you like to see the horses, My Lady? We brought two beautiful white horses that would suit you well.”

“You are too kind, My Lord.”

Julianna wished they had followed the King and Queen into the keep, but now was too late for her to abandon her course to the stable. The whole castle would be ablaze with people and activities, and she wondered how long it would be until she could escape again to the Godswood. Her eyes scanned the crowd once more, searching for her brothers this time, when she noticed a group of knights following close to the Prince and Astrid. Ah, so the Prince has babysitters and he seems close to Edmund's age. Her footsteps fell in the line with the small group, examining the six horses being held steady. Two large white horses, two all brown, a brown and white and a single all black mare.

An easy choice.

She approached the black mare slowly, reaching out her hand to the creature and making soft, soothing noises as the Prince continued a long monologue to her sister. Smiling, Julianna stroked the beautiful black fur and looked up, finding herself spotting the young knight once more. She caught his eye and spoke with a tone of authority but friendliness as he piqued her curiosity. “You…what’s your name? You seem young compared to the rest….” She paused and decided to see if he was worth her time. “And skilled to be given such a task as protecting the Prince.”

 

[Woody.]

Elias hated introductions, and formalities. Most of the men in the troop that escorted the royal family had to deal with introductions and formalities to the point they wanted to blow their brains. Everyone getting on their knees to bow, introducing their names and children. For Elias, it was simply a way of getting information that he needed, and trying to figure out who he can talk with, or who he can gain something from. At this moment, he felt an uneasy tension between the Queen and the girls who had been introduced to the prince. Though the obvious choice of pairing would be Astrid and Prince Austan, but there was Julianna. A name that would roll of Elias' tongue, easily, and one who seemed to hate the formalities just as he did.

She was not as pristine looking as Astrid, her clothes a little dirtied, and her eyes always upward in some sort of defiance. As if she would make eye contact and keep that contact till someone were to look away. She certainly was a breath of fresh air for Elias, most women always had the submissive look, and downcast eyes to those superior to them. Julianna looked like she would crush a man by just using her cold hard words of truth, not afraid to let a King know that he was being irrational. Though he doubted she would do so due to possible punishment that could befall her.

It was when she chose the black horse, did his lip twitch up in a smile. A fine choice. A breed that would be found difficult to tame, but seemed to already take a liking to the girl. It was a surprise to see the horse lower her prideful head to allow Julianna to stroke her main. He had known that horse to be quite the feisty beast, biting most of the handlers that came near them. Yet, it seemed to sense Julianna's aura because it allowed her, with no harm, to stroke the mare. But then the question rang in his ears, wait. Was she speaking to him? He thought he could be discrete, and be unapproachable. Most nobles saw knights as simply, beings of protection. Much like servants were to serve, a knight wasn't a person- but a thing to help guard.

However, he kept a cool expression, as he answered her quickly, "I'm Elias Barath." A common last name down in the south of Valar, which meant bastard. A bastard in knighthood was uncommon, due to knights having royalties and money to back up their credibility. He had a likely story of being found by a knight, who took pity on him. Even though his story of being a bastard was the only story he could have thought of at the time, it certainly worked on the older knight.

"I was taken under by Sir Jerik, the Master Swordsman." He stated with much pride. Jerik was a man of great worth down in Valar. He was the head Guard of the King, much like Elias was to the prince. One day though, when Prince Austan would become King it would then make Elias the guard to a King.

"I suppose I could say my swordsman ship could rival many of the King's Guard." That was a bit of a lie, he could most certainly kick their asses, but to keep a discrete background, he had to stay well into the shadows. Many would know his name soon enough, and his house would rise up as rulers of this country instead of hiding within the shadows like wild beasts.

"You must have notable skill to tame such a beast as that one." He pointed out to the mare she had chose. His own horse was a gray stallion, with speckled black spots around the behind of his horse, and it had a black mane which hid a white shaped diamond on his forehead. His was named Scout, and he had bit Elias several times before the man could ride him.

But now, just as the mare warmed up to Julianna quickly, did Scout finally come around and allow Elias to ride his back, "She had bitten many of our handlers. Possibly took a finger too. What magic did you use to bewitch such a creature?"

The fact about the finger, was a rumor, and rumor he would most certainly believe with a creature like the mare. He hadn't gone near the creature himself, but he may have seen blood around the grounds of the horse on their travels. It was when Prince Austan had shot him a look, did Elias cast his eyes down. But he wouldn't stop interacting with Julianna, most of the women in the city were much more proper or they were prostitutes. Julianna simply looked like a woman of adventure. So why not?

"I'm apologize for my knight." Stated Austan, with a sense of pride and prudishness in his voice. If only Elias had the power to smack the man across the face, he would have done so by now. "He should keep in mind he is talking to a lady, and not a witch." Elias kept his mouth shut, but that little smile on his lips told most who saw it, that he wasn't sorry at all. Julianna was from a noble family, and her father was probably hoping to have her married off to another noble, maybe someone with the company of the King. After all the King had many with him, not just knights and servants. Members of smaller houses in Valar.

The prince had continued chatting and flirting as Astrid and him looked over the white horses. It would be like a fairy tail for Astrid, having a prince gush over her and pretend to be interested in the words she spouted out. Which gave Elias the chance to sort of sneak closer to Julianna when the Prince talked on about their breeds and the parents of the horses. As if lineage mattered. There was nothing flattering about white horses, they simply looked too femenine for Elias' tastes. As the King and Queen chatted and was lead away by Lord Castor. They would most certainly start the feast and festivities as both parents would discuss marriage proposals and plans. That was if Astrid enjoyed Austan, which seemed to be a yes from the looks of her dream dazed eyes. When he had gotten closer to the mare though, her eyes had adjusted to his and she let out a snort. It was as if she hated men, and Elias wasn't an exception, "Perhaps you should see how fast she goes, my lady." He made sure to address her, unlike the informal way of speech he was using earlier.

 

[xCeleste]

The black horse’s gaze seemed to follow Julianna’s towards the knight as he introduced himself. A bastard but of higher rank in the guard; that was of interest to Julianna. The man must have some skill to work his way up at such a young age. Or his family was well connected enough to give their base born children some power in the world. It was not so uncommon, many of her father’s men had children outside of their marriage bed who squired or worked in the castles. Elias had a boldness about him that she wondered came from skill or the entitled statue of the man he guarded.

When he mentioned Sir Jerik, the Master of Swordsman he fully gained her attention and her eyes roamed the field for a moment. “Sir Jerik? Then it seems you do have some skill; I have heard my father’s stories about him from the war. He was rumored to be one of the very best, even better than King Thorin and my father.” A playful and almost mischievous smile played on her lips, “We will need to see your skills put the test while you are here, Elias. There will no doubt be tournaments, but they can be too formal to show off your skills. My brothers are no knights but have been training since they could walk.” Julianna never dared to train with most of them, only her oldest brother showing her moves when she had first shown interested years ago. Their mother had put a stop to it, making it more difficult for Julianna to practice outside observation and the shadows of the Godswood.

Her attention returned to the mare, who was gentle and soft under her hand. The creature had an energy about her that Julianna did not doubt could harness some defiance. “Skilled enough as a rider to make my way. Animals are clever; they know whom to trust. I doubt most men were worthy of her,” She raised an eyebrow as though wondering if he would make an objection but the knight seemed neither overly friendly in a manner that turned her away nor too dumb to speak or pick up on the substiles of words. He proved her point as she asked how she had bewitched the creature, and the half smirk returned to her lips as she winked at him before the Prince stepped into their conversation.

Julianna bowed her head as the Prince spoke, “No offense was taken, thank you, My Lord. I would hate to be mistaken as a witch.” She saw the look on the knight’s face but hid her own smile as she felt the sharp eyes of Astrid on her. Astrid was determined to keep her fairy tale day going smoothly, and that meant not allowing Julianna’s sabotaging the event.

Astrid talked over her sister as she led Prince Austan down the row of horses and stalls, speaking in a manner of some authority. “My sister has always had a way with animals, My Lord. Though I have always loved the hunt. It is freeing to go riding and watch the men bring down the animal.” Julianna wondered why Astrid bothered to lie about something so minor but kept her mouth shut; her sister hated hunts and anything that could cause harm to her dresses. Astrid looked up at him with an adoring smile, and Prince Austan grinned, “I’ve caught many boar, my lady!”


Julianna’s brothers had made their appearance, the twins claiming the two brown horses as Edmund strolled through the yard, commanding more respect from his presence alone than Julianna had noticed from the handsome prince of Astrid’s. He grinned wide, as he heard their chatter. “It would seem the King and my father want to speak in private, even without their heirs.” He gave Prince Austan a look, sizing him up. Edmund had the strong northern looks of their father but was always more social and outgoing than most Highlander’s. While he fought well with a sword during practice spares, he had a way of diplomacy that Julianna admired.

As Edmund spoke with the Prince and Astride, the knight found Julianna again who gave him a curious look then looked back at the black horse. She wanted nothing more than to ride the creature. She fixed him with the same cold look she used when she was displeased, “My lady. How formal.” She sighed and eyed his horse, “Though I couldn’t agree more with you, Sir Elias. Do you think you could keep up?” It was a playful challenge, only meant for his ears before she spoke louder. “These beautiful horses were a gift from King Thorin and Prince Austan, Edmund. Don’t you think we should repay the gesture by taking them and His Majesty for a ride in our woods?

Edmund grinned at this sister, but Astrid balked. “They have just ridden such a long way to get here, they must be worn and tired, Julianna. They need rest before the banquet tonight.”

Julianna ignored her sister for a moment, nodding to one of the stable boys, “Find fresh saddles for the horses please.” Before turning to Astrid, “We have other horses if our guest’s mounts are tired. But the rooms will hardly be ready for them yet and the banquet is in hours. Mother and Father would want us to entertain our Lord.”

Edmund and her brothers quickly nodded, Edmund sending others to prepare the horses. “A small party and a small time out, If it please the Prince, dear sister. It is a fine day without much wind. And I’m sure the Prince would enjoy being out of the spotlight before the banquet.”

Astrid looked towards the Prince, demure compared to her family, “Whatever your Prince wants.”

Julianna already knew the answer if the prince had any sense. Edmund was no prince, but heir of the warden of the North. It would be rude to turn down and do little good for his courtship of Astrid if he refused. As the Prince nodded in consent and soon the yard was preparing the horses for the six Highland children, the Prince, and his knights. Julianna exchanged a grin with Edmund before they both returned to their chosen horses. Some time passed in the hurried yard as the horses were saddled and readied, and Julianna stroked her mare's nose as her eyes fell on the knight again, “Would you be able to help me into my saddle, sir?”

 

[Woody.]

He was glad to hear that her memory of a Sir Jerik did not lack. Jerik was a good man, with a good heart. He had many accomplishments, and he was the type of man that would stay loyal to the end. His morals were straight and good, all the while his ability to choose masters were excellent. He guarded the king well, and at times Elias thought the man would stand down with some of the things the King had announced to the kingdom. If Jerik weren't against Elias' family, Elias would have recruited the man for his rebellion. Alas, the man would certainly make a good friend for now. While Elias gathered information, he'd use the man's kindness against him.

Jerik looked to the boy who was playing nice with Lady Julianna. The boy seemed too eager to begin talking to the noblewoman and he almost had to remind the man to keep a good face while he talked with a McGrath. They were known to spit fire when offended, and to guard their own wisely. If you were to offend them, they would most likely remember and hold a grudge. They were very wary of those who spoke, and looked more to who you were as a person. Jerik looked to another knight and spoke, "I need you to keep an eye out for Elias, I don't want him offending the lady." The knight only shrugged, thinking none of it. But Jerik always hand an inkly for a man who would cause trouble, and the look in Elias' eye would mean trouble if he weren't careful. Julianna was a woman known for being different from the rest.

Prince Austan hated the thought of a knight offending nobility, especially the sister of Astrid whom he'd marry. Julianna would be his sister-in-law, which would make her a dangerous enemy.

Even Elias saw the smile and wink, which made him let out a relaxed breath. He had to be humble to let the prince think he was apologetic, lest the prince chop his head off, but he was glad to see that Julianna found it somewhat humorous. The prince bragging more about the boar he had caught as if it were something to really talk to a lady about. Even Elias could see Astrid's hesitation to the detail Austan went on about. Blood, guts, and gore... this lady certainly didn't look very pleasant at the great details Austan went on about.

It was when her brother's made their presence known, did the prince puff out his chest. As if to try to appear just as big as they were. Though the prince had height, muscle and strength weren't necessarily his strong point. He was a prince, which meant he was cared for. Princes' never did manual labor, but the Mcgrath family looked like they raised a sword more than the prince had. The Prince merely tried to size up the man, even if Edmund was charismatic and appeared friendly, Austun disliked northern men. They always made him appear weaker than he was. Even if his father was built like a knight, Austan didn't have the experience his father had.

Julianna seemed to be able to sneak her way back to Elias, and he was pleasantly surprised. She at least curious enough to continue speaking with Elias, just as he was about her. To put it simply, she was a shiny coin on the ground for Elias to examine. Something he could admire while he had other plans a brewing, in which he'd stash that coin for later use. Scout had his head down munching on what little green he could get to while on the grounds of the Mcgrath household. The stallion would certainly be ready for a run to stretch out his legs, after all, most of their time was spent trotting and not enough running.

"I believe he is up for the challenge, my lady." He put more emphasis just to tease at this point. Elias witnessed the interaction between Prince and Edmund. Let's just say that Austan still looked like a pup among dogs. Austan had casually commented, "Of course! Much needed break. This way I can see the beautiful country side." the sheer joy in his voice sounded so fake, only because the man probably wanted to bathe and relax. Not ride horses when he just gotten back from doing so.

When they were about ready to ride, Julianna had asked him such an innocent question. He doubted that she really needed help, but he would help non-the less. "Are you little too small, my lady?" He let out a chuckle, before he went to her side. She was smaller than he, and he certainly could easily take her down, but why would he have such thoughts? She wasn't the enemy unless she intervened.

He crept his hands around her waist, before he quickly lifted her up into the saddle. Julianna certainly was light, and he patted the horses leg. The body tensed, but the horse seemed to be doing just fine with a new rider. She would certainly make for a good steed, as for Scout. He heard his own horse call out to him, as if seeing Elias with another horse was too hard to see. Or he could be simply calling out to the beautiful black mare. "Just make sure she doesn't throw you off. It would make for a good show, but I have a feeling I'd be killed due to laughter." He muttered, before he saw a young knight pull up with his own horse.

When the knight motioned for Elias to come, he gave her one last playful smile before he walked up to the mounted man. "Jerik wants to remind you to be on your best behavior." The knight stated, then looked to Julianna, "Remember Lady Mable?" Elias snorted at the thought, he had supposedly led on a little noble from the capital, however, that was just shameless flirting. Jerik had to repremend him and reassure the parents that Elias wouldn't do such behaviors. Elias had almost gotten the axe, but he just scowled at the man and got onto the horse. If he was going to have a babysitter, he might as well make it hard for the knight to actually babysit him.

"I believe I saw a nice dirt path up those tress."He called out to Julianna once he was on Scout, it would serve as a nice path for horses, and perhaps... a race? "I believe I saw an old mill up that path. Would you care for a race?" The challenge was bold, but Scout was ready. Austan cried out, "I'm too worn for a race."

The bastard was ruining the mood for Elias, and he almost shot the boy a dark glare, but he ignored the plea. The prince was use to Elias' behavior at this point, so Elias continued, "If I win you must serve me my dinner tonight." This was directly at Julianna, but he knew that if others wanted in, they most certainly can try. Scout was fast- he was meant to help scout the lands and run if the mounter saw any signs of danger. He was handed down to him by Jerik himself, and he most certainly would try to win. The mare was younger, but also held a nature for competition. This would be a close challenge.

 

[xCeleste]

Julianna felt her mare tense as Elias patted the creature; she did not care for men. The idea of a particular horse who bit at others only made Julianna enjoy her more and she knew she would have to find a name to match her wild nature. She raised her eyebrow at Elias as he muttered the joke towards her. So bold and familiar for a knight but he entertained her, and she had always found herself drawn to those who could cure her boredom. “Laughing at a lady in distress.” She clicked her tongue, “Truly your lord would dislike such behaviors. I will have to keep from falling, I’d hate to see you lose your head so soon after arriving to the north.” She exchanged a bemused smirk before leaving him to talk with the other knight who would be joining them, the horse moving slowly, as the pair became used to one another.

She felt a hand on her knee as Edmund approached her, yet to mount his own horse as he had been talking with Astrid and Prince Austan. Astrid was sitting side saddle on the lovely white horse the Prince had picked for her, and with her skirts fanned out around her and her hair falling around her shoulder she truly looked like a future queen. Julianna knew the crown would sit heavy on her sister’s small neck and shoulders; a weight Astrid may not survive if their father agreed to her marriage to the Prince.

“Do I need to be worried about you, Jewels?”

Julianna was surprised to hear Edmund use her nickname; it was a term only he and their father used towards her and not often since she had grown out of childhood. Her features softened but fixed her brother with a confused expression. “You never need worry about me, Edmund.”

Edmund’s eyes wandered to the knight who had engaged his sister; a knight was often duty bound and hardly one to keep company with; one interested in his sister had caused him to pause. Julianna had never been naïve to the ways of men as Astrid was, she enjoyed flirtations and games of cat and mouse, but a night of the guard was far different from the men of the north. She never allowed a man to go too far as Edmund knew but his eyes scanned Julianna’s. He spoke quietly.

“Have you seen anything?”

“No.” Julianna lied. The words in the Godswood had held little meaning to her and would only frustrated Edmund. He had little patience for riddles and here was not the place.

“Stay alert.”

Julianna frowned, nodding curtly before kicking her heels into her horse and leaving her brother to mount his own horse. Edmund never needed to question her loyalty to their family, and she resented that any outsider would distract Julianna enough to forget her duty. Deeds, not words. The family motto ran through her blood. Despite the age difference Edmund and Julianna held a bond, they loved their siblings but the trust between the two was fierce. She, however, knew he had more pressing matters to attend to rather keeping his youngest sister from stirring trouble. It seemed he may have a similar feeling towards the prince and their guests as Julianna had had earlier.

Her brothers mounted their horses and the small party made their way out of the main gate, the fresh air filling Julianna’s lungs as they left the crowded grounds behind them. Prince Austan and Astrid soon fell to the back of the group, Astrid looked lovely but could not ride fast in her stately position. The prince hardly seemed to mind the pace and despite the fact he clearly had wanted to explore the castle and rest, appeared to enjoy having the small audience to listen to his tales. Astrid’s face was stoic and attempted to sway the topic, determined her fairy tale day stayed on course.

Julianna rode next to the other knight whose duty it seemed to babysit the prince along with Elias while Edmund pointed out the roads and directions of their land to the Prince. She spoke politely, her eyes meeting Elias’ as she spoke to his peer in amusement before returning to her conversation, though this knight was much more what she had been expecting; short, polite, and respectful of her station.

“Yes, an old mill no longer in use.” Edmund responded to Elias in disregard, until the man mentioned a race. He internally groaned; the Highlands were a competitive breed and he knew his brothers and sister would be unable to turn down the suggestion, even if it was inappropriate given the presence of the prince.

Astrid balked at the idea and nodded as the prince mentioned a leisurely pace. Her younger brothers were already discussing the proposed challenge set by the prince’s knight; Julianna watching the reactions unfold with a look of quiet amusement Astrid desperately wanted to slap off the girl. The knight would be a thorn in Astrid’s side; of course, her sister found him entertaining. It was clear the knight’s intentions were to bait Julianna, and she feared she would take the bait.

“Perhaps just the knights and the youngsters,” Astrid suggested, waving her hard towards the younger three Highlands with an air that copied that of their mother’s. Julianna’s eyes narrowed slightly. She had been considering her options; calculating how likely she was to win. The idea of serving the knight at the banquet was out of the question and if she lost her father would surely make his feelings known for embarrassing their family. Her mare was new to her and may not take her directions without some struggle, though she knew the land well. Her brother’s would be up for the challenge, but she could concede a loss to them. It was Elias, bold and confident in his abilities despite his long weeks of travel, she would need to mind.

She had considered turning down the challenge, but her sister's attempt to control the situation had made up her mind, and she made her voice heard over her brothers. “I think a race is a wonderful idea.”

Astrid’s lovely face wavered slightly, “And how do you intend to keep on your horse? You will fly off your horse.”

Julianna grinned, her fingers stroking the mare’s neck to calm the creature and gauge how cooperative she would be. “Why just like the men, sweet sister.” Her eyes fell on Elias briefly before returning to her sister’s gaze, “With my thighs.”

Edmund watched his siblings with a bemused smile, waving his hand towards them. “Very well. A fair race you lot. The first to the mill wins; mind you one of you best beat the knight, or I’m sure the King and Lord Highland will have words about this challenge. And I will deny my part.”

The three highland son’s, Julianna and Elias awaited Edmund, who deferred to the Prince who seemed both put out and attempted to seem relaxed as the others. Julianna noticed him look towards her sister, sweet in her affects so freely given him already. Julianna gave Elias a mischievous grin, with the talking from her brothers she spoke to him so only he could hear, “I have no intention of serving you dinner,Sir Elias.”

The Prince raised his hand and shouted, “Begin.”

The horses took off, Julianna’s brothers giving whoops and yells as they urged their mounts on, before she kicked her heels into her own mare and took off. The path was wide but trees would start to be closer together as they rode, making it easier for them to venture off in attempts to shortcuts towards the mill. The main path, however, was the fastest for now Julianna leaned forward into the saddle, maneuvering her frame to help the horse move without the rider hindering her. Julianna was light and the mare had seemed ready to run free, gladly gaining speed as they quickly caught up to her brothers, before guiding the horse around them to their yells and protests. They were not the challenge; Elias was the one to beat.

The wind whipped her face as they ran, a smile overcoming her as her heartbreak increased with the thrill of the run. The mare was a fine creature though ignored some of Juliana’s cues, taking her own way. Her black hair broke free of the furs she had tucked it into while awaiting the guests and flew free as she turned her head slightly to gauge the race. Elias was to her right, slightly behind but gaining easily, with her brother Kiernan on his heels.

Her brother Rowan came from behind a tree and cut in front of her, losing speed from the mood and then passed by Julianna, Elias and Kiernan. As Julianna moved her head to look again, Elias passed her and she kicked in her heels again to the mare, “Come now girl, faster!”

Pulling slightly toward the left, they maneuvered trees to cut the path off, hardly a shortcut but enough to catch up back to the leader. The mare’s breathing was hard now as she galloped faster and Julianna urged her on, as the mill game into view.

Julianna arrived at the mill first, though Elias was not far behind her. She laughed as she steadied the horse, which took several small laps around the area in investigation and Julianna waited for the others to join her and Elias, examining him and his horse. “Your horse has speed, I doubt we would have stood much of a chance if you both had been well rested before the race.”