Realistic or Modern The Devil's Throne - IC (Open)

[Misty Gray]

Gabriel Lancaster
~ Royal Family's Dining Hall ~​

Gabriel's security checks had led him to the large kitchen, where he briefly entered to make sure the guards were all in their places keeping watch. He then stopped by the doorway of the dining room, peering inside to realise the room was presently empty. He stepped inside and slowly walked towards the window at the back of the room. As he walked alongside the table, he briefly halted, gently running his gloved fingertips over one of the red roses that had been placed as a central decorative piece. There was little doubt in the guard's mind that it was Arielle's handiwork. Gabriel continued walking towards the window and stood by it for a short while, enjoying the view of the garden below in what was left of the day's light.

As he enjoyed the only few minutes' break he'd had since sunrise, Gabriel heard footsteps approaching from down the hallway. He focused on the sound for a short time, deducing the feet belonged to a female and that she was approaching by herself. The certainty he had with his prediction meant he was in no rush to stand to attention and rush to the door to continue with his duties. Upon hearing Arielle's voice, Gabriel turned away from the window to face the queen. He returned her smile and gave the queen a respectful - albeit playful - bow of his head. Whilst she was his queen, she was also his friend of many years. "Your Majesty, I was just passing by and I couldn't help but notice how suspiciously peaceful this room was. I simply had to make the most of it while it lasted," he told her, whilst walking closer. He'd noticed the elegant red dress Arielle was wearing - he always thought the colour suited the queen. "Is King Robert not far behind?" he curiously asked, glancing out into the hallway. The king was never late. It always seemed like the man made a point of being early so he could take pleasure in berating those who couldn't make it on time. Instead of the king, it was Amren who had approached the dining room, but the eldest princess continued on her way before he could address her. There was likely a reason the girl chose to keep walking and Gabriel would not be the one to question it. Instead, he returned his focus to Arielle.

"He did invite me to join the family for dinner this evening, but I politely declined. I mean, who else will stand by the door and pretend to look busy? I do it so convincingly," he joked. It had been twelve years since Gabriel had saved Robert's life, yet the king still brought it up as though he were in debt to Gabriel. After all the years and matters that had transpired, it never sat right with Gabriel to live off of his master's praise. The way he saw it, he was there to protect the royal family and the day he saved Robert's life he was doing as intended; saving the king. There were times when Robert wouldn't take no for an answer and Gabriel had to sit at the table, but the only good thing that came out of the man's bad mood today was that he didn't ask twice.

Melanin-Gxdess (Arielle)

 

[apolla]

Besides Christopher, there was one other Ravenswood sibling at the criminal execution. Standing near the back and slightly off to the side, Olivia would have stood out with her ice blonde hair if she hadn't been wearing a cloak. The hood covered her head, her hair pulled back into two braids that wrapped around each other and were pinned to the back of her head to create a bun of sorts. Her eyes were mostly downcast, though she found herself peering at the criminals through her lashes more than once.

The gallows were a haunted ground; the spirits of the countless souls who had died here still haunted the place. Liv could practically feel it in her bones. A tiny hand slipped out of the folds of the cloak, reaching for the edge of the material to pull it tighter around her, as though that would protect her. People around her were shouting, wanting the men to hurry up and die. The callousness of her people caused Liv to wrinkle her nose in disgust.

Not that the criminals were any better.

Her gaze slid over to the man that she called brother, a man who she'd once played with, and laughed with. There was no laughter in his eyes now, just a cold, icy exterior that almost made him unrecognizable. To be a Ravenswood meant more than what Liv let the public see; the careless, carefree girl that no one took seriously. But the truth was, she needed to be involved. To turn a blind eye to what was happening all around her surely meant a stab in the back, and she didn't plan on going out that way.

So that's why she attended the executions. She'd been at Margaret's, too; Liv could still see the fear in the young maid's eyes before the fire had been extinguished completely. Forever. In fact, as these criminals died in front of her today, it was Margaret's eyes she saw in her mind. People cheered and jeered all around her, jostling her around in the crowd below the gallows. Stumbling backwards, she slipped from the crowd and paused, sparing her brother one last glance before fleeing back to the safety of the gardens.

She was not prepared for dinner in the slightest, so once back inside the walls of her home she let the hood of the cloak fall as she made her way to her rooms to bathe. Some time later, she was dressed in her finest forest green gown, and her hair cascaded down her back in light blonde ringlets. Planning on keeping her presence at the execution a secret, she schooled her expression to one of nonchalance as she headed for the dining room.

She had almost reached the chambers when she saw her. "Sister!" Liv greeted warmly, her usual greeting for her siblings, no matter which one it was. "How has your day been, Amren?"

---
Tags: Amren ( Ms. Sparrow )
Location: In the hallways, near the dining area

 

[Braddington]

Arthur Ravenswood

Location: Palace Rooms
Interaction: arryn

​

Arthur heard Adelia's voice come through the door, a slight sigh coming from his lips as he contemplated what exactly he wanted to say. He was simply happy he was being allowed into the room in the first place, thinking this far ahead was something he had not done. Still, looking to the guards in their ornate armour that gave pause to the military sided part of his mind due to it's sheer extravagance and practical use, he layed his hand on the handle softly. A few deep breathes came in quick succession before he lent down and the door came open. He didn't linger with the door wide but quickly closed it with a light, barely audible click before turning to look at his sister and the room around her. It had been a small while since he was in here and he immediately spotted the few noticeable changes. The darkened and black face of Mary jumping out to him as if heaven itself was looking down on them at this moment. As if they were watching and noting their every move. He didn't linger long before he looked over his sister in the beautiful red gown and to the gold upon her head. Reminding himself that he had forgotten his own coronet, not that he particularly cared. If there was some meaning behind the colours, Arthur could not discern it at this moment. Maybe there wasn't, he had a habit of overthinking these things, such was the case with his own black outfit.

With a smile that oozed charisma, Arthur approached her and kissed her forehead, looking into her eyes for a second before drawing her into a hug. He knew Margaret's death would be on her mind at all times, it was on his so he could only imagine how it was affecting her. He wanted to make it known that he was here for her, now and always, and that whatever she needed he would be more than willing to provide at any point. She didn't deserve the stress, the pain, the sheer monstrosity of the act. He could see a lot of his little sister in Margaret, that alone made him sick to the stomach. That his own flesh and blood was willing to execute a young innocent girl was one thing, but a girl that was so much like their sister and daughter was another entirely. He pulled back from the hug and looked her in the eyes, his smile not going away.

"Hey, I just wanted to check on you. Dinner should be soon, and I know father has ordered you there. Whether you want to go or not. But we will get through it, right? It might be angry, it might be bitter and it might be hard, but we can do it. You can do it. I'm here for you, sis. Always have been and always will be. I want you to always keep that in mind, especially at the dinner tonight. I love you, William loves you, Olivia loves you, mother loves you. We all do." He knew he left out Christopher and their father, even if they truly did love her. The bitterness of their acts were not worthy to mention them in the list, however. "I can escort you there, if you want. You don't have to go alone, surrounded by fathers handpicked idiots." He made sure the last few words were shouted rather than naturally said, as if to get his point across to the two outside. A chuckle accompanying it.

​

 

[Misty Gray]

Christopher Ravenswood
~ Palace Gardens ~​

Although there was some surprise in the way William spoke back to him, there was also a sense of victory inside of Christopher. The only way his siblings would really survive this life was to grow a thicker skin and push aside idealistic thoughts or fantasies of a happy kingdom. Keeping his face neutral, Christopher nodded his head when told not to use Margaret's name around Adelia. He thought that wasn't a bad idea, seeing as it was more appropriate not to show familiarity to the servants - dead or alive. The reason Margaret's name was so ingrained within the eldest prince's mind was because he was the one who had to pass the final sentence. He was the one who had to stand by the gallows as the maid was executed. All the while, knowing his father had orchestrated the whole affair, torturing the poor girl for befriending young Adelia and for not worshipping the God who the kingdom was told to. "I've forgotten the maid's name already," he lightly assured his youngest brother.

"Steady on, William. No need for talk of dying so soon." They walked a little further before Christopher stopped by the large palace entrance, taking in the last few moments of the fresh air before they were suffocated around the tense dinner table. "Have you been paying attention in your training with Gabriel lately? If you're going to talk about protecting your sisters, at least make sure you can back up your words with action." Even when Christopher was concerned, it tended to come out as him being bossy and controlling, with the present conversation being no exception.

Christopher folded his arms around his well-toned chest and allowed a crooked smile to grow on his face at mention of Amalia. "Excellent idea. At least there will be one eye on her that evening," he flippantly remarked. It wasn't that he didn't notice or acknowledge his betrothed, but he thought it more merciful to give the woman her freedom. Neither of them wanted the marriage and so he was perfectly happy with not allowing any form of emotional attachment to develop. If he did, he believed she would either be taken from him or she would betray him. No matter how sweet or reserved a woman, they were all capable of betrayal. If she didn't betray him and he did grow to love her there was then the fear that she would be used to threaten him with - yet another person to be ripped away from him.


Moka-chan

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Queen Arielle Ravenswood

Watching Gabriel bow to her made her cringe inwardly, but on the outside, she shook her head at him. She knew of his respect for her and not wanting to look to be disrespectful. She gave a short laugh at his comment on the room being peaceful. "Unfortunately in this family, peace is short-lived." Although her tone of voice was playful, she was quite serious. There wasn't a time she could remember everyone being happy and at peace with one another. Perhaps it didn't exist since she couldn't remember it.

Ari heard footsteps nearing the room and her heart quickened as it often did when she thought the King was near. When she turned to see who it may be, she saw Amren walkinig past. She gave both a sigh of relief and of frustration at the departing of her daughter. Things weren't getting any better with their relationship and while she was trying her best she was still frustrated with the fact that Amren wasn't giving her a chance. "Well, unless Robert is now the daughter that hates me I'd have to assume no." Her fingers tapped against the table, her eyes glued to the floral arrangement reminding her of the day.

"Starting to regret my choice of floral arrangements." She hadn't meant to say it aloud, yet when she realized she had she looked up at Gabriel and cleared her throat. "Well if he invited you to dinner you should have definitely accepted!" Arielle made her way slowly around the table to her seat before leaning against it. "Pretty sure there'll be more dangerous people around this table tonight than outside the doors." It was a crazy thing to say but she could not deny the truth about it. Her family was a broken and dysfunctional one. Most of the blame was her own weakness and she knew this, which is why she was trying her best to fix it all. "Well, if you hear glasses shattering and cups being thrown don't fret." She joked.

Gabriel ( Misty Gray )
​

 

[arryn]

Adelia Ravenswood​

Adelia kept her eyes to the floor and her hands clasped tightly behind her back as her brother entered the room. Her heart pounded in her chest, even though she had no real reason for the nerves. She was close with Arthur, and knew he wouldn't say or do anything to harm her. Nevertheless, her heart still hammered on. The door clicked shut behind him and she looked up to meet his gaze. She watched as he observed her painting, and immediately felt a wash of humiliation. She should have covered it. It was such a statement of a piece, she worried it might offend her brother.

Regardless, she still kept her gaze fixed upon his face as he approached and drew her into a kind embrace. It had been a week since she had had any physical contact, and she couldn’t help but return his hug. She had tried so hard to suppress her emotions, and channel them into her art, but being so close with her brother brought them all back, and made her realize how little grieving she had truly done.

Arthur’s black clothing came as a surprise to her. He was making a statement and risking his reputation by openly mourning the loss of a servant. Still, she felt solace in having him as such an open ally, and a sort of weight was lifted off her shoulders.

His words reflected it as well. He was willing to put himself second in order to help her feel more comfortable at tonight’s supper. She had been forced out of hiding, and while it was surprising that the King let her stay locked away for so long, she didn’t feel ready to face him and her eldest brother in the slightest. She had been feeling intensely nervous about doing so alone, but now that she had Arthur by her side, she felt a surge of confidence.

“Thank you, Arthur. I appreciate your kind gesture more than you know,” she said. She gave him a solemn smile, which was as much as she could muster. Her chin began to tremble, signaling the approach of tears, but she squeezed her eyes closed tightly, and forced them back down. She straightened her back, tilted her chin up, and opened her eyes to meet her brother’s gaze. “Ready?” she asked. She felt her stomach tighten up, and her muscles contract, but forced herself to keep her composure. This was going to be a dinner of utmost hazard, and while she didn’t feel ready, felt comforted by the adherence of her brother.

She moved past him and opened the door to her bedroom. The guards that stood outside, shifted to walk with her but she signaled them to stay. Arthur was right about their idiocy. It was quite offensive that her father assumed she needed to be escorted to dinner. She walked alongside her brother through the halls of the castle, talking slow, deep breaths as she did so. She reached out for Arthur’s hand and held it softly as they went. She glanced at him, giving him a look filled with fear, shame, excitement, and vigilance. She wasn’t sure how this dinner was to go, but with her brother by her side, she felt protected and ready to face what was behind those dining room doors.

Braddington

 

[Moka-chan]

William
​

William nodded at his brothers assurarnce to refrain from using Margarets name again, there was only so much leeway he could give his brother over her execution and it felt wrong for Christopher to say her name. William was positive that their father played a larger part in the whole affair then anyone let on, yet Christopher still made the order to have her hanged until dead. Her death had been a public affair people crowded around for to gawk, part of William wanted to know if she died quickly or if she struggled in vein for breath that would not come. Clearing his thoughts William gave Christopher a wry smile, "whether we talk of it or not, it seems death comes to whomever is marked next regardless of who you are."

At the question of his training William felt his smile come back naturally, "brother the blade is one of the few things I enjoy studying. I've become quite good at it, perhaps we could spar later and I can show you." While Christopher's words and tone may have come out bossy, it was different from before when the man was scolding him about talking to servants. It felt to William less like an overbearing future king and more like a brother making sure he wasn't going to get skewered the next time he picked up a sword. William himself wasn't overly worried about that happening, perhaps he was being overconfident but he felt he could hold off any would be assassin until help arrived. Of course if help didn't come or there was a whole room of them that would be a different story entirely.

Christopher's flippant remark about his fiancé had William raising an eyebrow at him yet he noted the crooked smile, "perhaps neither of you wanted this, but unless something drastic happens you will be spending the rest of your life with her. She truly is a kind woman, I'm sure you both won't combust if you had a simple conversation with her. If you'd like I can steal her glasses so she doesn't know who she's talking to." William's voice took a teasing tone at the end, but he really did want his brother to connect with Amalia. He doubted his brother would become bosom buddies with her overnight, but perhaps her kindness would win through. Maybe speaking with somebody he didn't have history with would help, it would at least give the pair a fresh start not clouded by how things once were.
Misty Gray

 

[Misty Gray]

Gabriel Lancaster
~ Royal Family's Dining Hall ~​

Gabriel caught Arielle shake her head when he'd bowed, which caused him to allow a humoured smirk to crack through onto his face. He straightened his face and solemnly nodded when she pointed out peace was short-lived for the family. He'd been in the centre of many a fight or argument among the family members and every time it didn't get any less awkward. The comment about Robert not being Amren caused Gabriel to simply nod his head. The king was a man to be feared, but he was also certain the eldest princess was capable of having quite a bite to her too.

Arielle's comment about the flowers caused Gabriel to briefly glance to the decorations and then chuckle. His appreciative smile and casual shrug showed her he had no issue with her choice. He personally liked red roses, having always taken them to symbolise love and romance. His eyes once again wandered to the flowers before then resting on Queen Arielle's face. "I happen to like them," he finally reassured her.

When Arielle commented that he should have accepted the invite to dinner, Gabriel took a couple of steps back from her and broke eye-contact as she made her way around to her seat. He'd always cared for the royal children, having watched all of them grow up from birth to the unique individuals they were now. No matter how much Arielle and Robert wanted him to be comfortable at the family's table, there was always something at the back of his mind telling him it was not appropriate. The wonderful woman - his friend - who was standing before him was part of the reason he wished to sit at the table and also part of the reason he thought he shouldn't. "If your husband requests my presence again, I will be sure to accept."

Gabriel grinned when Arielle joked about shattered glass and flying crockery. His smile reached his eyes, by now finding the best way to approach the family's squabbles was to at least draw some humour from it. He suspected, however, that the disagreements of late were much deeper and grave than squabbles. Margaret's face was one that would likely never leave his memories. He needed a drink, so hoped Arielle would be able to oblige later that night. "After dinner would--" he began, but fell silent as he heard the heavy footsteps of the king approaching. Gabriel was able to effortlessly mask his casual composure with his familiar neutral expression and disciplined stance. "Your Majesty..." he began.

"Arielle. Gabriel. Be seated," Robert abruptly told them, acknowledging their places at the table. Gabriel began to protest, but Robert held his hand up to silence the guard. "You will join us and I won't take no for an answer. You have subordinates who will stand guard at the doors," he reminded him. Robert placed a kiss on the back of Arielle's hand before sitting in his chair at the head of the table. The floral arrangement was lost on the king. If anything, he thought the roses were a waste of space.

"Of course, Sire," Gabriel agreed. He removed the sword from at his waist and carefully set it aside in the corner of the room before taking his seat further down the table from Robert and Arielle. He had hoped to have not been thrown into the centre of the dinner and any dramas this evening. The earlier executions had been taxing enough for one day.

Melanin-Gxdess (Arielle)

Spoiler: Seating Plan

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Amren Ravenswood

Click. Clack. Click.

The sound of her heels against the floor was excruciatingly loud against the smooth marble, grating Amren further into a foul mood. She tried to reach down into the hollowness of her stomach, her heart, and pull any emotion out, anything better than the void of nothingness. At least anger made it easy to know she still had a heart.

Amren felt rather than see her sister approach, and it was hard not to, for Olivia always carried a bright, giant ball of energy and happiness with her, wherever she went. In a place so dim, she didn’t know how Olivia did it at all. Amren reigned in an a sigh of annoyance. It was hard, often, to deal with all that light. Sometimes she didn’t know what to do with it.

Amren glanced side long to Olivia, her silver eyes sharp with some hidden anger that never seemed to leave them, today however, there was more of it in her gaze.

Amren’s expression remained the living essence of annoyed as she replied in a flat voice, “Blissfully silent, until now.” She said pointedly, arching her eyebrows at Olivia to drive the point further.

Amren looked away and kept her focus forwards as they walked for the dining room, “You’re surprisingly chipper today,” Amren paused, “despite witnessing the executions.”

Oh yes, she knew all about Olivia’s visits to watch the executions, but it was only because she had often visited them herself, and saw Olivia, cloaked and hidden in the crowd, a number of occasions. Amren had continued to attend the executions up until she was eighteen. She would always offer a silent prayer for those being executed before then. It didn’t matter if they were guilty or innocent, for nobody ever knew the true story did they? Back when she believed there was a God, not that anybody knew that she had once believed in God at all. A God of love and mercy. She’d always kept her beliefs regarding religion on a tight reign, until her atheism beliefs were used to combat her father in a number of occasions a few years prior.

Amren glanced sidelong to Olivia once again, “Going won’t help them, girl.” She said, perhaps a tad bit gently than her usual icy, flat and direct tone. As gently as she could humanly muster that was. It was what she realized at eighteen. That witnessing all those deaths, all the injustices some times, meant nothing. Standing like a fox in a crowd full of yipping coyotes would do nothing. The people would always demand more blood, in the hopes to distract themselves from their own bleak, miserable lives. Because the arrogant would always be arrogant. The cruel would always be cruel. And the world was always as it is.

A well-spun lie.



apolla​

 

[Melanin-Gxdess]

Queen Arielle Ravenswood
Dining Room

Gabriel's comment about her roses made her smile as she drummed her fingers against her chair. "Well thank you. I'm sure you'll be the only who likes them tonight, so it's nice to know." She wanted Gabriel to enjoy the dinner with her family as he had been apart of it for the longest of times. Yet a part of her understood why it would be nerve-wracking for him to do so she left it alone. A maid then came into the room to begin setting the table and filling the drinks for dinner. "Oh right on time as always, Clarice." She told the girl who was filling her cup. The red wine was going to be her saving grace at this unfortunate dinner tonight; she just knew it.

As Gabriel opened his mouth to ask her something, the sound of heavier footsteps could be heard. It happened to be Robert this time walking through the doors and immediately she regained her composure. Robert would never understand the relationship she held with Gabriel and their casual nature, therefore she was going to do her best to make sure he never saw it. The kiss on her hand caused her momentarily forget how much of a brute he was, but only for a split second. She gave him a soft smile before taking a seat. "Ah, looks like you will be joining us then, hm?" Arielle had to keep herself from sending a playful wink his way, again knowing the King would not understand that it was all innocent.

She turned her attention to her husband with an adoring look in her eyes, an act that she had perfected over time. Before speaking to him she took a sip of her drink and made a mental note; he said nothing about her floral arrangements. Although he never acknowledged them in the past, the fact that Gabriel had made her wonder.

Stephen
Dining Room
Stephen's day started when it was dinner time. He hadn't yet been up, being hungover from the previous night's endeavors. It was a good thing there were executions going on that day; it meant he didn't need to be around. His eyes fluttered open and he saw a mess of blonde hair on his pillow. It caused him to be irritated as it meant the maid he had stolen from palace duties was still in his bed. He thought he made the rules of his nightly activities perfectly clear; they were not to sleep over and were to leave immediately after.

Propping himself up on his elbows he gave an annoyed sigh and nudged her until she woke up. She made a noise and he got up, preparing himself for dinner. Even though he was reckless, he wasn't reckless enough to be late. He called out from his door another maid to come in and draw him a bath. The girl had slowly gotten up and was still confused about where she currently was. Stephen got her dress up from the floor and helped her into it then shooed her out. It wasn't much longer before he was walking into the room. Usually, he was the last person to arrive but it seemed that was not the case for tonight. The king and queen were already present, as was Gabriel. He bowed his head to the three of them before taking his seat. "I'm here? Before the rest of the family?" Immediately he raised his cup to his lips. "Shocking."

Arielle gave a small laugh "It is quite a surprise that you even managed to get out of bed today. I suspected you would need to recover from your sports." For the unsuspecting Arielle's comment could be seen as her mentioning his late night debacle however to everyone else they would definitely understand. Stephen just shook his head with a small chuckle of his own.​

 

[Misty Gray]

Christopher Ravenswood
~ Royal Family's Dining Hall ~​

Christopher was pleased to hear William was at least taking his studies of the sword seriously. It was unlikely his youngest brother would need to make use of politics and other academic studies, but it was always important to defend their family and the kingdom. "I cannot make any promises on being able to spar this evening, but I am eager to take you up on the offer when we both have time available to us. It will make a pleasant change for it not to be Gabriel and thus the temptation to impale the man will be reduced," he remarked. He didn't mind Gabriel, when it came down to it, but he was still irritated the man had got the better of him that morning. The intermittent stinging at the top of his arm had been a reminder of that throughout the day.

As William pointed out that it was most likely Christopher would be spending the rest of his life with Amalia, the eldest prince let out a slight groan. "If she is so kind a woman, she would be much more suited to the likes of our brother. I'm unable to fulfil any expectations she would have for this silly arrangement." A smirk crossed his mouth as William joked about stealing her glasses. "It wouldn't change the fact I would have little to say that would please the lady." He cleared his throat and signalled to the palace. "Come, we mustn't be late for dinner. Best not to give father more excuses to be angry."

When Christopher entered the dining hall, he noticed most of the table was still unoccupied. "Good evening, mother," he said as he gently squeezed Arielle's shoulder. He then looked to Robert and gave him a simple nod. "Father," he flatly acknowledged the older man. Christopher then took his seat at the table, looking down the seats to send his friend, Stephen, a crooked smile. He was surprised to see his adviser had managed to drag himself away from his bed. He envied the man's ability to share his bed with women without little in the way of consequence. He brought his eyes back to the cutlery in front of him, making his usual point of polishing the silverware with his own handkerchief. The man was a stickler for detail, but at times one might question if there was even any kind of blemish on the cutlery and that the prince was merely being picky by nature.

Spoiler: Seating Plan

Melanin-Gxdess Ms. Sparrow Braddington apolla Moka-chan arryn seasonedcat TYPE Teh Frixz Hysterical ryesnatcher
​

OOC: Just tagged everyone to prompt y'all to get to dinner.

 

[Moka-chan]

William
Dining hall room
​

William couldn't help but feel excitement at the idea of sparing with his brother again, it had been far to long and William wouldn't deny he was excited to show his brother his skills. "I wait with bated breath for that moment." It was an exaggeration yes, but William was looking forward to sparing with his brother even if he knew Christopher would most likely win. It felt nice, the air between the two was light and Christopher was not only smiling but cracking jokes of his own. He couldn't help but feel the way that this is the way it should be, that this Christopher he was joking with was the brother he grew up with.

When Christopher said that his fiancé would be better suited for their brother William resisted raising his eyebrows and instead chose not to mention Arthur at all. "I agree with you on some points brother, I've never much cared for the idea of an arranged marriage. However unless you can convince father not to go through with it then it's not an issue that will fade away." At Christopher prompting them to move faster William felt dread creep up, dinner was going to be hell and in the best case it would be filled with silence. However there was so much bad blood between the occupants that William doubted it would be silent for long. That and this jovial Christopher he so rarely saw would be locked away and the cold calculating future king would once again emerge.

Entering the large room William gave his father a brief nod of respect, "father." As Christopher took his seat it was his turn to go to the queen, "mother, you look as radiant as ever. I truly love that color on you, it suits your eyes perfectly." He next looked to Stephen and gave him a warm smile, "Stephen, I hope you enjoyed yourself before coming here." He sat at his spot and mentally prepared himself for what was to come.
Misty Gray Melanin-Gxdess

 

[seasonedcat]

Amalia smiled warmly at Mary agreeing to take her to the dinning hall, silently thanking the woman for not making her have to maneuver her way through the castle alone. Amalia followed the servant girl nervously as they approached their destination with each step they took. She always despised the dinners that were held with all the attendance, she always felt as if everyone was staring at her and she could barely eat. Her face would usually be bright red and she'd stumble around with words if she was spoken to.

It made her extremely anxious to be seated with all of them in such a manor that she wished she could curl up in a corner and die. Amalia knew she'd have to get used to having dinners with unfamiliar people once she became the queen, but it didn't stop her heart from racing as she worried herself to death as to what everyone was thinking of her. However, even though the dinners brought stress to her heart, they also produced hope.

She sat next to Christopher at the table, as expected, and this brought her hope. Each time she sits down she'd hope that he would talk to her about something, say that he was just busy and not ignoring her, tell her what she did wrong that would make it so he wouldn't talk to her. Was she not pretty enough? Was it her ugly face? Her weight? Her glasses? Her hair? In love with another? Or just because he never wanted to marry her? All the above? Knowing the answer, no matter how insulting would be better than this constant anxiety of not knowing.

Amalia blushed as Mary spoke to her, having caught her being lost in thought, "A-a-ah! It is no problem at all, none at all! I am doing well, a little embarrassed about how I never can seem to get the castle halls memorized however. They all look the same to me, I have no idea how on earth you do it!" she smiled very warmly at Mary as she spoke, speaking to her as if she was of the same status as her, "I also thank you very much for showing me the way, I am now in dept to you! I'll have to repay you sometime! Feel free to ask me a favor anytime!"

Amalia let out a gasp suddenly, "Oh how terribly rude of me! It seems I have forgotten to return the favor of asking you how you are! You'll have to take my humblest of apologies for forgetting! How are you also on this fine day?"
Moka-chan

 

[ryesnatcher]

Henry Caswell
| Location: Dining Room | Interactions: Open | ​

A quiet suspicion seemed to hang itself from the palace walls, a hushed whisper followed every pair of working hands, rumours, even for the downstairs, seemed to be appearing at faster rates.

But their work still went on, and Henry ignored the lingering thoughts of the execution. Part of him wished that he could have been there, to see the face on their prince when Margaret eventually dropped. Seeing whether he flinched or remained as stoic and uncaring as he appeared. But another part of him was glad that he wasn’t there for it, glad that he didn’t have to bear witness to the extent of the brutality in their halls.

Every action needed to be second guessed and checked again. The usual precision for their job now a dream as their superiors came down harder on their inspections, giving ‘gentle’ discipline for even the smallest of mistakes. Although Samuel wasn’t as overbearing as he seemed, Henry still worried that his next oversight or misstep could be his last, wondering whether it would be from a stain on his shoe or a crooked fork.

“Stop thinking about it.”

Henry looks away from the table and towards Samuel Blackall. A stern man by all accounts, but Henry never minded him. On occasion the old man would share a sherry with him, and on an even rare occasion Henry would even consider them being halfway to friends.

Henry opens his mouth to argue, but is cut off almost instantly.

“I can see the look on your face. It will do you no good to appear brooding once they arrive. So compose yourself or you can attend the rest of your evening from the kitchen.”

Henry shakes his head, but takes the advice nonetheless, straightening his posture and shaking the thoughts from his mind as he finished setting the table, adjusting one of the forks as he steps back and waits for Samuel to approve his work.

After a quick nod, Henry takes his place by the edge of the room. Standing beside Samuels sideboard of wines and liquors and placing his hands firmly behind his back and once the royals began arriving, he began his dance of collecting plates and serving, attempting to remain invisible whilst still being at every need. Attempting to remain as emotionless as possible whilst being practically terrified of dropping a plate or giving the wrong amount of eye contact, almost wishing Samuel had sent him to the kitchens.

 

[Hysterical]

Genevieve Montjoy
~Montjoy Manor~​

Another stroke of giddiness went through Genevieve as she remembered that not only was she being permitted to spend time and court and live in the same residence with her best friend, but she also remembered that a ball celebrating the King and Queen's anniversary was fast approaching, and she would be permitted to be in attendance. Ginny couldn't wait for her first opportunity to search for romance out in the real world, she hoped to be whisked away by a handsome stranger to dance the night away. She looked through the assortment of ball gowns that were in her wardrobe, and picked the newest, most extravagant of them all.

It was an emerald green dress with some golden accents, and would make a striking contrast against her pale skin and dark brown hair. She pictured the way it would look as she danced, the lights reflecting off the gold detailing. The thought made her feel like she was going to overflow with happiness. She had an opportunity to be the belle of the ball, which of course, she already knew she wouldn't. That would surely be Princess Olivia or Princess Adelia. Amren, she already knew, would be busying herself with other things during the celebration than being doted on by others. Even if Genevieve couldn't be the true belle of the ball, she at least had the opportunity for somebody to make her feel that way, and that was all she needed.

With the dress put away, she was officially done packing, but she couldn't leave for the palace just yet. The royal family would most certainly not be done their meal just yet, so of course she needed to distract herself from her eagerness to leave. Her short novel from earlier simply wouldn't do. Ginny entered her family's library in search of the next of her literary feats. She settled on The Iliad, the great epic by Homer certainly going to keep her busy for at least a few days.

She would take it to the palace with her when she left, and would search out the next installment there if she so desired it, knowing full well that they would have it in their own personal library. On days when Amren would be fulfilling her royal duties, Genevieve would most likely be found in the library, sitting most improperly, with a good book in her lap. If it was raining outdoors, that probability became a definite. The only other place that she would likely be found would be in the stables with the horses, or in the gardens, seeing as she loves nature so much.

 

[Teh Frixz]

"Later of course Sir, my personal dalliances are for after my daily dismissal from my Lady. Which occurs after my lady has been dressed down and prepared for the next day. Lady Olivia will often retire at later hours and rise equally as late, dining in her quarters. I believe that would translate into the inverse of the adage ‘early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and dead’.”

Casually, Celitje reaches out for the empty glass, offering a pristinely clean gloved hand to the tutor as to relieve the burden of the dirtied glass.

“If my sir is not aware, I supper much earlier in the day as to be on hand during every meal for my Lady and for the family. The Family does dine privately sir, myself and the serving staff present are not to be of notice to them but should they require aid, we provide it before it needs to be spoken, becoming unnoticed after completion of our task. It is the proper way sir.”

Somehow looking him over and sizing him up without moving her head or eyes. Celitje seems to relax after coming to a decision. “It is against the rules to travel into the female service quarters for male staff, even those of status, so I shall arrive at your private quarters tonight at half past the hour of one. Refreshments and snackbreads will be brought along with the tools required to begin learning the Cyrillic language. Payment will be discussed at the end of the lesson”

The tray she held had not moved the entirety of the conversation, the water still in each glass. “If that suits you my sir, do let me know. I must be off soon to prepare my Lady for Dinner”

TYPE

 

[Moka-chan]

Mary
​

Mary couldn’t help but smile at how kind and humble Amalia was, it felt different from when the royals thanked her with a wave or nod. This was Amalia not even hesitating to show her gratitude to Mary, a woman so beneath her title it was laughable. Mary eyes grew wide when Amalia said she was indebted to her, “no m’lady. Think nothing of it, I was merely doing what is expected of me.” However after a moment she spoke again in a quieter voice, “but thank you, you truly are too kind. Far to kind for a place like this, forgive me for speaking out of turn but you should be wary of speaking so casually to the servants. If the king or prince were to hear there would be blood, and please be careful of Prince Christopher. He and the king match each other for cruelty.” As soon as she spoke Mary’s face flushed and she stuttered out an apology, she had only meant to warn the other but she feared she said to much.

As the grew closer to dining room Mary stood further away, servants were expected to mind their distance around nobles. As Amalia went to her assigned seat Mary silently prayed the woman wouldn’t be shattered in such a lifestyle. She went to stand in a far corner, waiting to be given an order.

seasonedcat

 

[seasonedcat]

Amalia frowned at Mary's refusal of dept. Even though most people would be happy they weren't in dept to someone, this brought sadness on Amalia. So, she decided to keep the dept a secret from Marry and help her when she needed it most! This filled her with determination as she continued her journey to the dinning room with a new perk in her step. For a moment she had forgotten her mountain of worries and enjoyed herself, this moment was short lived.

The next words out of Marry's mouth caused herself to frown again, "You don't have to worry about speaking out of turn with me, in my opinion there shouldn't be an in turn!" She let out a light laugh at this even though it wasn't very funny, "And I am sure that the king and Christopher are lovely people. Maybe they are just doing what is best for the kingdom!" She smiled sweetly at Marry again at these words. Amalia deep down really did believe that those two were good people even if the common belief at the moment said otherwise.

The slight distance that was increased by Marry as they drew closer to their destination didn't go unnoticed by Amalia. She didn't take this personally, it only reminded her of what lied ahead. Her face to pale slightly when she noticed the open doors of the dinning room ahead. Her earlier anxiety returned as her hands began to shake, going unnoticed by most due to the tight grip Amalia held on her dress' skirt.

No parting words were spoken between the two as they entered the room, now going their separate ways. Amalia made her way over to her assigned seat, shakily smiling at William and Christopher who seemed to be the only ones present at the moment. "Good day to you William, and you C-C-Christopher!" her face went bright red as she stumbled over Christopher's name. She took an embarrassed seat next to said man, hoping her couldn't feel her anxiety.
Moka-chan Misty Gray

 

[apolla]

The anger in her sister's eyes didn't surprise her anymore. Olivia was used to the sharp, intense gaze that belonged to Amren and Amren alone. When the pair was younger, and Olivia took everything to heart, she remembered the times spent in her room, agonizing and sometimes even crying over a sharp look or even sharper criticism sent her way.

An amused smirk graced the younger sisters lips as they fell into step beside each other. It was well known that Olivia was described as a "ball of sunshine and energy", and not very many people could handle her for long. Shrugging, she skipped a few paces ahead of her sister, grateful for doing so once Amren dropped the bombshell that she knew Olivia attended the executions.

Her steps faltered, but she recovered quickly. Spinning on her heel to face Amren, Olivia tilted her head slightly, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I wasn't aware you attended them, too, Amren." She let the sentence linger there in the air before spinning back, falling into place by her sister once more.

Genuine surprise flashed across Olivia's face at Amren's latest tone, and she shot her sister an incredulous look. "I know it won't." She searched her sister's facial expression for a moment before looking away, spotting the dining room doors just ahead. "I don't attend to save their souls. Or mine." She admitted aloud, her own tone a bit more serious than normal.

Without another word on the subject, she sped up and entered the dining room with a smile on her face, looking around at her family members and the servants gathered there as well. "Good evening, loved ones." She flattened a hand against her stomach, placing the other one on her side as she stepped further into the room. Her mother, father, Christopher and his fiance, William...

Smiling brightly at them, she greeted each of them one by one. "I hope today has been a pleasurable one for each of you." She took her assigned seat at the table, her eyes glancing up to see if she spotted Celia. Not yet, it would seem. Glancing down the table at Christopher cleaning his silverware, she quirked a brow in his direction. "Dirty silver, brother?" She questioned, peering down at her own.

---
Tags: Amren ( Ms. Sparrow ); Arielle ( Melanin-Gxdess ); William ( Moka-chan ); Amalia ( seasonedcat ); Christopher & the King ( Misty Gray )
Location: Dining area

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Amren Ravenswood

Amren quickly erased her features of slight concern from her face as Olivia glanced back, searching for some hint of emotion in her. She bit her tongue—hard, to keep herself from saying anything more as her sister disappeared around the corner that led straight into the dining hall. Though she wanted to. She wanted to tell Olivia to stop going. That the people cheering around her were just as dangerous as some of the criminals being hanged. Especially the men. She worried what the commoners might do if they caught sight of her figure or face under her cloak. But it was too late.

Amren sauntered into the room a few steps behind Olivia, her silver sequenced, draping gown trailing smoothly behind her, glad for the lack of the poofy skirts most common dresses usually came with.

The pilot opposite of Olivia’s own gracious greeting, Amren’s features were eased into an coolness, though her angry silver gaze went over each face in the room before landing on the King’s, “Sir,” Amren drawled coolly, as she sauntered over to the empty seat next to her mother, refusing to address the man as her father as she had for many years. Amren’s gaze flicked to her mother, addressing her in the same tone as she sat down beside her, “Mother.”

Amren instantly reached for her wine glass as Olivia pointed out Christopher’s inspection of his silverware before inspecting hers. Amren’s red lips quirked, slightly amused as clucked her tongue, “Something usually is,” she said coolly with the slightest hint of amusement more towards Christopher and Olivia. She raised the wine glass to her lips and drank deeply from her red wine, savoring the taste of the sweet yet bitter taste of wine.

She’d need a lot of it to get through this dinner.
​

Melanin-Gxdess Braddington apolla Moka-chan arryn seasonedcat Misty Gray

 

[Braddington]

Arthur Ravenswood

Location: Dining Hall
Interaction: Half the Universe​

Arthur took Adelia's hand as they walked through the palace, the two guards noting his presence once more and following the Princess' wish to stay where they were. She didn't need goons following her right now. As they went, hand in hand, Arthur gave occasional signs of affection, general smiles, hand squeezes and the like, in an effort to keep her nerves down. But beneath it all, he could sense a fervent determination, which only emboldened his own even more. For but a few brief seconds, he had a sense of fear, this could go badly wrong at any point, this wasn't just Christopher or the King, this was both of them in one room after an execution. That soon dissipated as Margaret once more came into his mind, as did the other servants within the palace, Maxwell, Mary, all of them. How long before another was killed? How long before his complacency made him an accessory to the murders? No, he had made his choice, now it was time for it to be made open. God help them all in the coming hours. If God was even watching this palace anymore and had not written them all off.

As they came to the dining room door, Arthur took a deep breath, turning to look Adelia in the eyes and nodding. "As always, keep in mind they are all in there. Just remember to try and keep calm and if you need anything, I am seated just across from you. Just give me a signal, any at all, and i'll be there." Another nod accompanied it has he pushed on the door, the behemoth swinging open rather loudly, the first, if unintentional statement of the night. He led Adelia, his hand on hers tightly, into the room before letting go and regarding everyone either standing or seated at the rather long table. His eyes settled on Christopher for a few seconds, and if looks could kill, his brother would not be recognizable. It was a crucifying gaze. One filled not with hate, but disappointment. Still, he smiled at his other various siblings and the staff, noting them about their business in the dining room with respect. He walked round at a brisk pace, holding eye contact with no one in particular, before coming across his mother, kissing her on the cheek lightly as he didn't even regard his fathers presence at all, ignoring the man completely as he backed away to walk down to his seat. He didn't mind where he had been assigned, he was in between two people he actually didn't mind and had his sister across from him. He ruffled Williams hair and did a slight bow to Amalia, rather liking her. A sad state of affairs considering who she was to be married to. Taking his seat he quickly gestured to a servant for wine. His mind in thought as he tapped his fingers on the wood. Wondering if anyone would attempt conversation and how the dinner was to go.

 

[TYPE]

♗ Titus Harbord ♗
Location: Palace Gardens
Interaction: Braddington Ms. Sparrow apolla seasonedcat Moka-chan Teh Frixz ryesnatcher Misty Gray Melanin-Gxdess
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------​

Titus listened, and when she was done, nodded towards her, in greeting and in acknowledgement. "Then I shall leave you to your duties, as I see to mine in turn." He took a deep breath, getting up in one fluid motion, before nodding at her once more, bowing slightly, before walking off. With each step he seemed to change. Each footfall, which took him closer to the palace itself, left him more rigid. His shoulders squared, and his arms perfectly placed behind his back, hands crossed in an elegant and formal manner. His face first became stony. Perfectly calm and without emotion, before slowly his eyes softened slightly, his brows raising, suggesting a sort of serene internal benevolence. The corners of his mouth turned up only a fraction - perfecting his mask for the evening. Gone was any sense of scheming. Gone was any sense of dread. Gone was any sense that he was anything more than a well-meaning, gentle teacher. The act was one he had mastered a long time ago. The motions of control and suppression came naturally now, and his body reacted instinctively to it - a trained response, his heart-rate becoming constant and relaxed, his breathing even and controlled. He was no longer Titus. He was Tutor Harbord.
The walk to the dining room as uneventful. He smiled at passing help, nodding where appropriate, commenting on jobs well done, tasks well performed and generally being cordial. As he reached the final hallway, he began to dust off his already pristine clothes, fixing his cravat and re-positioning his wig. His mask was perfect. And so too was he. He heard sounds from the interior, and took a breath, before entering the room. His chin high - as one of his station should bear themselves, but not so much so as to offend. His eyes ran over the table, the King, his sons, his daughters, his wife - some of the help - lingering on them for a moment longer, before bowing low towards the king, raising his hand to his brow, before moving it to his chest and finishing with a flourish. "My king. My queen. I thank your-majesties for the invitation. It is an honor to share in your table." He spoke in a clear, deep, yet gentle tone. One of deference and cordiality.
Choosing to rather not draw too much attention to himself further, he walked towards the table, nodding and politely not listening in on any conversations, before sitting down - smiling at the young prince next to him, and the guard captain on his left. He knew this was going to be a long evening. Already he felt tired from it all. But he was going to sit it out. And who knows... he might learn something of value. He began his usual charade, not drinking, but sitting quietly - not paying too much attention to the king so as to draw not too much attention, ignoring Christopher and the others. For now. He would need to listen now. Before anything could happen, he needed to catch up.

 

[Misty Gray]

Gabriel Lancaster​

Gabriel's more upbeat mood when he'd been speaking with Arielle had soon been dampened with the arrival of Robert. The kiss the king placed on the back of his queen's hand would most likely appear gentle and romantic to the common eyes, but the guard knew much better of his master by now. When he caught sight of Arielle looking lovingly to her husband, the man looked away to glance towards the large window. It wasn't that the affection made him awkward, it was knowing Arielle deserved a kinder man with whom she wouldn't have to put on an act.

For once, Gabriel was slightly glad when Christopher entered the room. It allowed him to replace his doubts and concerns with feeling of tense anticipation. Robert and Christopher in the room together was screaming out drama on this particular day. The eldest prince gave his father a flat greeting, but it was certainly better than having to sit watching the king and his heir argue. With Christopher, William had also entered the dining room and Gabriel's features softened a little upon seeing the kind, youngest prince.

Amalia soon arrived in the dining room and took her seat next to Christopher. Gabriel felt the poor girl was far too kind and gentle to be dragged into the royal family - especially to be engaged to Christopher. He knew the eldest prince didn't care for love anymore and so he worried Amalia would be destined for an empty marriage with a cold man. Once again, he glanced to Robert and Arielle. The queen had grown stronger over the years and that had helped her to get by, but he feared Amalia might not be able to find the same strength to endure her arranged future.

As Mary and Henry began serving around the dinner table, Gabriel sat up straight and kept a neutral expression. He made sure to thank them for their attention, even if he would have preferred to sort his own dinner out rather than sitting back to let the servants do it. He wasn't royalty and the servants were equals, as far as he was concerned.

Gabriel was quite glad to see Olivia enter the room. Her bright smile and energetic nature was a welcomed change from the tense atmosphere they were often placed within. As with all of the royal children, he'd known them since they were born. Not only did he train the princes in combat, but he also offered the princesses guidance when he could too. He'd had many a conversation with Olivia and knowing how being the middle child had left her feeling like she was invisible made him at times reassure her of her importance. When she commented to Christopher about the silverware and Amren also made a remark about him cleaning it, Gabriel reached for his wine and took a sip. He hoped Christopher wouldn't be triggered into some rant about the poor standards of the servants... again.

As he became conscious of the remaining empty seats, Gabriel found himself wondering where Olivia's twin brother was. Arthur was a hardworking and honourable young man, one who the guard found enjoyment in training with. The second prince was seen as an idealist, but when chipped far enough through his own detached professional exterior, Gabriel was something of an idealist too. He only hoped Arthur's spirit wouldn't be beaten down by the darkness around them. When Arthur and Adelia entered the room, Gabriel was quite relieved, having not wanted either of them to be on the receiving end of Robert's irritability. The last thing the poor princess needed was to be yelled at whilst still grieving for Margaret.

As he waited for the remaining guests to join them, Gabriel took another drink of his wine before glancing across to Stephen. He sent the man a knowing look; one of a mutual kind of understanding that they were both dreading their time around the dinner time and likely hoping for the ordeal to pass them by quickly. He was certain drinks were on the cards as soon as he'd finished his duties for the evening.

Spoiler: Seating Plan

 

[arryn]

Adelia Ravenswood

Outside of the dining room doors, Adelia looked into the eyes of her brother, wishing she could hold onto his gaze forever. It was warm and comforting, which was surely the opposite of what she was to face behind those doors. On an exhale, Arthur swung open the doors. She noted the force with which he did so, and it crossed her mind whether or not it was intentional.
Her eyes scanned the room and the sight of her father drew a swift breath from Adelia’s lips. Her eyes flicked to her eldest brother, and she cast them down almost immediately. She wondered how she was to get through this dinner without complete silence. Her grief, sorrow and heartbreak would undoubtedly be targeted tonight, and without a thick coat of armor, she was sure to crumble under the weight. She still felt so vulnerable and if any slicing comments were directed her way tonight, she would only become more defenseless. She made the decision in the moment passing through the doors to shut off her emotional side that she resorted to so often. She would silence not only her voice but also her affectivity. It was only then that she was to be safe from the verbal daggers that would soon be flying in her direction.

She took note of the roses laid across the table. How fitting. Roses are a classic symbol of martyrdom, hence the striking color of her dress tonight. Along with that, their petals were a deep shade of red. Perhaps it could be called a blood red. Hm. Her eyebrow raised imperceptibly as she wondered if this was an deliberate statement or a coincidence.

As she advanced further into the room, her footsteps seemed to echo through her head and pound into the floor, reflecting her heartbeat loud and clear. Her heart drummed in her chest, steadily. It seemed to be the only thing keeping her on earth. The red satin of her train followed behind her as Arthur led her further into the dining room and let go of her hand. She was on her own. She inhaled sharply and called herself to focus. She tuned out of her mind and into her surroundings.

Remembering her place, she smiled kindly at her mother and sisters with as much compassion in her eyes as she could muster, which wasn’t saying much. She gave her youngest brother a delicate nod before taking her seat. Her heartbeat, while not slowing, began to fade into the background and she was able to clear her mind a little. Adelia yearned for any source of comfort and found it in the eyes of her brother, seated directly across from her. Even if she were all alone in the room tonight, she would feel impervious by virtue of his generous affirmations.

Margaret. Where are you? You’re so far away.

Braddington Ms. Sparrow apolla seasonedcat Moka-chan Teh Frixz ryesnatcher Misty Gray Melanin-Gxdess TYPE Hysterical​

 

[Ms. Sparrow]

Feyre Odis

Soon.

It was the first thought that entered her mind every time she woke in the past month. Every since she was killed. Margret was just a girl that was ruined by rumors, as so often rumors were more dangerous than people thought. How anyone though Margret was capable of corrupting anyone was outrageous. Feyre had worked alongside the girl constantly, and saw only a young kind heart.

She knew if she didn’t act soon, more would fall to the eldest prince and the king, and one else Feyre deemed also had to die. Feyre also was determined to find who had started the rumor of Margret, and end them as well. She told herself she wasn’t doing it for her, she was doing it for them. For her father, for Margret, and anyone else the royal family had killed.

But even as she sat alone in the servants quarters, sharpening her knives, she found the thought of killing difficult. She had grown to like it here, content in the palace walls rather than struggling to survive in the woods, half-starved. And she had made her own fair share of friends.

But if was the thought of killing that sickened her the most. Feyre stares at the deadly lethal daggers in her hands. She’d come here with hate in her heart, seeing red. But on the rare days she’d see the eldest prince smile with a sibling, or watch the family and their strange bond and wonder if things weren’t so simple. Perhaps the cruel prince was not so evil as everyone had believed.

But Margret‘s death made up her mind. Whatever belief she held that Christopher deserved to live, that he wasn’t truly evil was crushed. Or she hoped it was. It was what she kept telling herself to justify her future actions.

The King though, he deserved to die. She had watched him when she could and saw nothing worth saving in the man. But it wouldn’t have mattered if he had...right? Her father was still dead.

Feyre finished sharpening her collection of knives, pushing her bed aside and finding the loosefloor board that concealed all her personal belongings. Vials of healing remedies, and poisons, along with herbs that’s she collected in her life in the woods. Along with those came her collection of knives, and a quicker full of crafted wooden arrows. And less harmless stuff, such as paints and small easels. She’d hidden her bow somewhere bigger.

Feyre had just finished sliding her bed over the floorboard when the door behind her opened.

“For the love of God, Feyre,” Gabrielle chastised, though there was the faint spark of humor in her brown eyes. “You were supposed to be in the dining hall an hour ago. Graybe’s gonna skin you alive.” Gabrielle couldn’t suppress a smile, despite her irritated and scolding tone.

Feyre grinned, a familiar smug one at that as she strode to the door, “I’d rather be skinned and flayed alive then be on dining duty for the fifth time this week.” Feyre said dryly, smirking as her and Gabrielle left the servants quarters.

Gabriella chuckled, looking at Feyre with an arched brow. “Well maybe you should of thought of that before you snuck off to paint.”

Feyre smirked but said nothing. She was not meant for this life of servitude, as content and warm as this place was. It was built on the backs of the common people. Her people. She wouldn’t forget it. Not that it could be fixed now. She needed to paint. It helped her release things she couldn’t here.

Gabrielle continued on, “The other servants say King Robert is in an ill mood.” She said, a bit quieter as they passed some guards.

“I suppose it’s too much to hope for if he were to suddenly burst up in flames from his own anger.” Feyre said dryly once more, though her tone was slow, her expression smug.

Gabrielle gaped, chiding a now grinning Feyre in the side. “Feyre!” She shook her head before glancing around to see if anyone heard them before fouling her attention to the hallway they walked down. “Honestly, I don’t know what you have against the man.” She said quietly with a touch of scolding in her voice.

Feyre bit her tongue and was silent the rest of the way.

After a very exaggerated lecture from Graybe, one of the head servants, Feyre was tasked with setting the table along with a few others before the royal family arrived.

Now she stood off to the side of the room, waiting to be of use as the royal family flooded into the room. Feyre eyed the servant across the room from her, wondering who her unfortunate partner was before she glanced to the first family member.

The first arriving had been the Queen, who, like the rest of the royal family she despised. Next the King, who, for the most part Feyre avoiding serving as much as possible, never making eye contact with the man. She kept her eyes glued to the floor as he passed her, her hand squeezing her other that were currently placed in front of her, like the ever obedient servant.

Every bone in her body wanted to break the Kings. Not only that, but she couldn’t risk him finding out who she really was. Though she supposed that fear was reserved for the next person who entered the room.

Christopher.

Feyre risked a glance from the floor to him as she heard his voice address the others in the room, something she did too often. Because sometimes, in the few occasional she saw even the hint of a smile in him, she wondered if there was something good in him.

And didn’t that mean there was something worth saving?

But he oversaw the executions. And there was always the sliver of fear he would somehow remember her from all those years ago, the bony, pale girl with the red, tear-streaked face, who watched, helpless, as a man, her father, pleaded for his life and innocence before he was hanged. Though she doubted it. There were many people in the crowd that day. Cheering for her father to be hanged for a murder he never committed.


She’d been so lost in her thoughts, Feyre had barely noticed how many people had filed into the room until nearly all the seats were filled. Averting her eyes from the ground, she eyed the seating arrangement of the table, desperately wishing she was at the wall behind Christopher rather than facing him.

Feyre refilled her sides wine glasses, which included Amren, who already waved for her service and payed her no attention as she poured her wine, as if she didn’t exist. Feyre fought the urge to break the bottle on the princess’s head, though she made sure her gaze never looked upon any face as she poured the wine.

Feyre would tend to the left sides needs for the dinner, while the servant across from her the right. She made a mental note to try and learn whoever the servant was.

Feyre backed against the wall once more, tucking a loose strand of her unique pale-blond, almost white hair behind her ear, which had escaped from the tight bun she tied in the back of her head, waiting for the next time her service was required. ​

Melanin-Gxdess Braddington apolla Moka-chan arryn Misty Gray seasonedcat TYPE Teh Frixz