Golden Princess-closed

"Jared i don't understand why i can't go with you" Tatiana pleaded desperately with her brother. "You can't leave me here with them, you know father is trying to pawn me off to whichever pompous ass will pay him the most or give him the largest amount of land. I will not be sold like a cow."

He always had a hard time denying his sister, but this mission was something he had to keep to himself. Its not that he didn't trust his sister to hold his secrets, it was simply she was a terrible liar. "tati, do as i ask, be the princess i know you to be, he'll do nothing without telling me first. He wouldn't risk my wrath. All i'll do is what i have in the past, just tell him he could get more. That will put him off for a while."

Her brother was her whole world. He was the one that wiped her tears, that taught her things of the world. Without him she would be lost, or sold off to the highest bidder. He'd protected her since she was born 19 years before. It was rare that he would leave her behind, and it frustrated her even more so when he clammed up.

"Well at least promise me you'll come home soon." she begged.
"of course princess" he said affectionately to her as he rode off on his black steed. She waited until he was no longer in sight before heading to the stables. Retrieving the clothes of his she had stashed. behind the stack of hay.
sliding them on over her tiny waist. she undid her dress and stashed it. Placing on his shirt over her corset. Pining her long golden locks upon her head she placed a hat on. From the back she might pass as a boy, but definitely not from the front. Even if she bound her breasts they would still be apparent. Her face was far to pretty for that of a boy, flawless skin and crystal blue eyes.

She snuck out past the stables staying out of sight. Sticking two fingers in her mouth she let out a whistle, from across the field came a chestnut stallion called Valiant. He let out a loud neigh as he raced to her, he was hers and only hers. Not even her brother could ride him. They left him out in the meadow because of his aggressive nature toward people.

Grabbing his mane she flipped herself upon his back and whispered go, as she clung with her thighs and held on to his mane. He reared up and took off hoping over the fence with little effort. Cutting through the forest was highly frowned upon from her brother. So she did it whenever he displeased her.

Jared took the long way around to the kingdom of King Thoren. He had met the king who at that time was a prince when he was out hunting a few years before. They always managed to over look the Kingdom politics between their fathers. Now that the prince was King, it became less often they could interact as they once had. But the king was the closest thing to a brother he had.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

The forest of Alenvale was green with new growth of spring, full of new life, of new hope and promise. It was still early in the season so it was slightly chilly with the last stubborn hold-outs of winter present in the bite of the wind. Fortunately Thoren wore a thick fur lined cloak over his leather hunting tunic and tights.

He rode Strider up over a rise in the game trail they were following, and he got his first glimpse of the Silvercrest river cutting the Alenvale in half and marking the border of his kingdom or Rondeland and the rival kingdom to the east, Turnaria. The western half was a game preserve of the Royal house of Von Rondel. To the East was a similar hunting preserve for Turnaria despite the historic tensions between the two countries. The Border here was unwatched, owing more to the lack of notice by anyone who would concern themselves over it. He had forded the Silvercrest on numerous occasions and hunted in Turnaria alone. It was a fond memory of ever rare freedom from the obligations of royalty for Thoren.

Strider waded into the still frigid waters with the confidence of long practice. In the middle of the river was a spittle of land. It was sitting right on the border of the two kingdoms and as such was not claimed by either. It was neutral ground and as far as Thoren would be allowed to go today.

He looked back at his hunting party which only a jester would consider them as. They were his gaurds, or nannies, so he wouldn't go chasing after a wild boar in this forest and get his royal neck broken. He sighed. These men all meant well, and could be fair hunters but they weren't concerned with acquiring game. Royal gaurds took it personally when their King got his crown because the last one was assasinated in his sleep.

It had been three months since he had entombed his father with the heraldry and honors of tradition inside the Royal crypts beneath the palace. The identity of the assasin or whether he intended to include his victim's son as his next target remained a frightening mystery.

When they reached the bank of the tiny spittle of neutral ground he glanced back at them. "Stay here," He said trying to sound as kingly as his father had, "I wish to see the river from the top of this spit of island."

"Your Majesty," Arn Bardolowe, the Captain of his gaurd said ready to fight him on this.

"Obey me Captain," He said climbing down from Strider, "Please."

"Yes your Majesty," He climbed down from the pale gelding he rode. He looked back on his men. "You heard your king. You three feed and water the horses. The rest of you form a cordone around this island. I don't want so much as a trout to splash in the water without one of you taking notice of it. Me and his Majesty are heading to the top of the hill."

Thoren hung his head. He supposed it was too much to hope for some solitude. Bardolowe was a good man, he'd keep his tongue if Thoren told him to.

So he and the good Captain began to climb the hill to the relatively flat ridge of rock crowning it. Atop it sat a man.

At the sight of him he smiled broadly and he felt a sudden weight lift from his shoulders. "Captain stand watch."

He approached the man. "Ho, Jared. It has been too long." He sat beside him on the outcrop of stone. From here the had a beautiful veiw of the river and forest. "I'm afraid we won't be able to do much in the way of hunting. My hunting party does more to scare game away than help acquire it."

There was more to it than that of course. The rivalry between Rondeland and Turnaria were generations old and there were many in both countries who only mentioned the other with the appelation of "Curse them straight to the lowest realm of hell."

He reached to his side and pulled up his wineskin. "Care for a drink," He smiled, "That is if you have the fortitude to stomach a Rondel vintage."

Jared smiled taking the wineskin "when would i ever turn down a vintage as wonderful as what your kingdom makes.?" He questioned patting the king on his shoulder.

Placing it to his lips he took a deep swallow . ooh now that is warm, just what the day called for. He sat in silence looking out at the view. "i don't want a war my brother" he said lightly. "but i am not king and cannot stop it from happening. You are right in the defending of what is yours. My father is wrong. I know that, and my sister knows that." He took another swig and handed it back to him. "He's trying to sell her off to the highest bidder" he said solemnly. "I can't leave her there, and i can't bring her to your kingdom. I'm in need of your wisdom."

Tatiana rode through the forest on the back of her mighty steed without a worry or care. She came bursting through the forest stopping when she saw the hunting party that didn't see her. Her brother however did from his perch upon the rock.

"speak of the devil" he said lightly "she is willful, and stubborn. That's partly why i worry. I doubt there is a man alive that can deal with her." He laughed at the idea of her settling down and acting her part.

Jared watched as his sister spun the horse around and rode back to whence she came. But not even i will fight her in a sword fight. he added giving clue to her being quite an accomplished fighter.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

"Care for a drink," He smiled, "That is if you have the fortitude to stomach a Rondel vintage."

Jared took the skin of wine from him. "When would i ever turn down a vintage as wonderful as what your kingdom makes.?"

There was a little bit of sarcasm in that, but Thoren laughed anyway at it, "I admit it's not as robust or as complex as a Turnarian red, but our vintners are getting better at this. You Turnarians better keep looking over your shoulders."

They sat on the rock overlooking the rushing waters of the Silvercrest for a long moment.

"I don't want a war my brother," He said finally, ""but i am not king and cannot stop it from happening."

He shrugged. "Your father thinks he can intimidate me with rattling his lances at me. He's testing his new neighbor. Thinking I am some naieve callow youth who'd balk at the prospect of yet another border war with Turnaria and in the first year of my reign as King." He looked back at Captain Bardolowe. "He forgets that I am a Von Rondel, and my father's son. I will not be intimidated."

"Let us forget all of that Jared. I have sent an envoy to your father to talk this over with him. So that is that. This is neutral ground remember? You are not the crown prince of Turnaria and I am not the reigning king of Rondeland here. " He gestured to encompass the whole of the Alenvale. "Here we are just Thoren and Jared, brothers by our own choice."

"You are right in the defending of what is yours. My father is wrong. I know that, and my sister knows that."

Seeking to change the subject he sighed, "I have never actually met your sister. With how much you speak or her she sounds like quite a woman." He took back the wineskin and took another swallow of the lukewarm liquid, "Has she caught the eye of some fine upstanding Turnarian suitor yet?"

"He's trying to sell her off to the highest bidder" he said solemnly. "I can't leave her there, and i can't bring her to your kingdom. I'm in need of your wisdom."

"Wisdom is it," He laughed, "We Von Rondels have been accused of many things, Jared, but blessed with wisdom was never among them, but still what wisdom I have I will give you gladly, my brother."

A woman with golden blond hair fluttering in the wind rode up on a spirited looking steed into a clearing on the Turnarian bank of the river. "Speak of the devil," Jared laughed, "She is willful, and stubborn. That's partly why i worry. I doubt there is a man alive that can deal with her."

"So that is your Tatiana," Thoren said wishing he could get a closer look at her. From here she seemed quite the enchanting maiden. "Spirited is she?"

He rubbed his bearded chin watching as Princess Tatiana spun the horse back around and pushed back into the cover of the treeline.

"But not even I will fight her in a sword fight."

"Perhaps I can provide a solution for you after all."

Tatiana rode quickly back to the castle. She didn't see her brother, but knew better then to risk taking on all those guards. "home" she whispered to her steed. As he then directed himself letting her enjoy the fast run through the woods fields and meadows until they jumped the fence once again.

She walked him around the meadow cooling him down stroking his thick muscled neck. Sliding to the ground she kissed him softly on his nose. Giggling when he nuzzled her as if to thank her for the workout. Walking back to the stables she changed back to her dress and stored the clothes.

"Princess" called one of the servants. "Your father has been searching for you, but he's occupied at the moment but wishes to see you after."
"you did not find me" she advised him nodding .."Perhaps i'm out there go look." she pointed toward the meadow where her horse grazed. Luckily Henry was loyal to her and her brother. He'd often covered their misadventures. Taking a striking or two in their defense.

He nodded and bowed heading off to the meadow calling for her. She snuck through the servants entrance. and came behind a group that were spying on her father. "I don't care what he said" her father yelled. "I refuse to acknowledge something that i am not guilty of. Plundering his borders lands. " The envoy spoke up getting tired and trying to be respectful. "are these not your men's uniforms." "well yes of course but ..." "Then the king states clearly stop or there will be war. Good day sir." The envoy bowed and backed out turning and placing his hat on his head. Her father was fuming.

Taitiana and the servants slowly tiptoed a ways away before letting their giggles out.
---
Jared listened to what his brother offered. "Absolutely if i would have anyone be with my sister i would want it to be you. But I will advise she is a hellion to put it mildly. "I will be able to talk my father into it. Although i don't know for how long it will last. She's his trump card so to speak. If my wishes are of consideration, i wish you to marry her quickly. If anything were to happen to me promise me you will take her to Rondel. I don't care by what means you take her there. I'll create a letter for her for you to keep in your possession. She'll react better if she knows its my wish."
Changing the topic to memories and such they drank and laughed the afternoon away, until it was time to leave."thank you my brother" he said hugging Thoren and patting him on the back.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

After bidding Jared farewell Thoren took his gaurds onto the road south out of the Alenvale following the Rondeland bank of the Silvercrest river. Soon the thickly wooded forest thinned and more and more signs of civilization. It wasn't long before the landscape they rode through was rolling pastureland. Fields where flocks of sheep and watchful sheepherders moved by them.

By the darkening of evening they had reached the tiny village of Hauchenbridge named for the only bridge over the northern half of the Silvercrest river linking Rondeland and Turnaria. Castle Rivergard sat atop the hill overlooking both the village and the river itself. A lone sentinel and provincial seat here in his kingdom.

The rode through the village, simple villagefolk bustling out of the way for the new king. They peered up at him respectfully but also expectantly. It was they the supposedly Turnarian soldiers had attacked, and raw feelings were running high among them for it.

Their militia had crossed the bridge and retaliated of course and now Thoren was trying to hold back the drumcalls for war.

None of it made any sense to him. Peace between Turnaria and Rondeland was far more beneficial to both kingdoms in terms of commerce and keeping the ever avaracious gaze of the Selonian Empire across the great sea to the South away. If this devolved into open widespread warfare between them they'd find Imperial legions landing on their shores with the pretense of peacably ending the conflict by making both Turnaria and Rondeland into Imperial protectorates-though vassals or slaves would be closer to the truth.

Neither he or King Harold of Turnaria could raise a large enough army to repel those legions. Not even together could they hope to push out an army from an Empire of a hundred nations covering an entire continent. Only the prospect of a long costly campaign had kept those legionnaire's boots off their soil. The Selonians preferred short victorious conquests. They had a narrow gullet for long drawn out warfare, and if they ever did try to invade his kingdom Thoren would do his damnedest to make them choke on Rondeland. Unfortunately the political climate was changing in the Empire and the self proclaimed God-Emperor of Selonia was showing signs of greater and greater irrationality.

Thankfully Thoren's factors within the Empire told him the Selonians were busy quelling several seperate rebellions in their western provinces. Their eyes were fixed on the West for the moment.

Then there were the Druenic tribes of the frigid wastes to their north. Only their lack of any unity and the steep mountain slopes of the Turnarian range kept them from raiding and pilllaging their two kingdoms with impunity.

They two were surrounded by wolves, circling, and slathering over the feast to come from their flesh. He and King Harold should be seeking stronger alliances of mutual defense between them-it was the epitome of foolishness for old squabbles now.

"Harold, you greedy old fool." He thought as they entered the courtyard to the castle, "Open your eyes and stand with me before your stubborness makes us both witness to the ruin of our two kingdoms."

Perhaps his proposal of marriage to Harold's daughter could be the opening he had sought for an alliance with Harold. He would go talk that idea over with his ministers right now.

Jared returned to Turnaria his hopes for his sister future set. The kingdom on the other hand was another story. It was a terrible thought but for all of them, he wished for his fathers demise. The man had no right to be a ruler, much less a father. It amazed him how different that him and his sister were. Perhaps because they spent so much time being raised by the staff and only with their parents when shown off as possessions, especially Tatiana.

"Not funny Tat" he advised her sternly. "Brother you have returned, did you have a good day?" she questioned innocently. "When i say stay, i mean it." he replied.
she rolled her eyes at him. "Care to tell me where you were?" she questioned mocking his sternness.
He frowned at her blowing his brown hair from his face. "Anything happen?" he questioned regarding their parents.

"Oh yes, the envoy from Rondel was here telling father to quit attacking and plundering. Father denied any wrong doing, the man present uniforms and father got upset. Other then that, i have been conveniently out in the meadow lost from sight." she said smiling.

Jared shook his head at his sister, still frowning over her chasing after him. "Please Tat, when i ask you not to follow, please obey."
"I will try brother" she said honestly. But they both knew that her impulses would win.

Going to his room he sat down at his desk and wrote a letter to his sister to have sent over to Rondel.

'Dearest Tatiana,
If you are reading this, it is because i am not longer alive to tell you the words that follow.
Do you remember the day you followed me, and turned back when you saw the Rondel solders. I was there watching you from upon a rock with Thoren. You will now know him as King of Rondel. Him and i have been best friends from a very young age. He is a good man, and i call him my brother, as he often refers to me.
My fear is that despite the conclusion and plan him and i have come up with. Our father will somehow fowl it up and cause war. In which case, Thoren has promised me to take you and make you his wife. If there is any man in the world that I would find worthy to marry my sister, it is him. Please do not hold my death against him. He would never directly harm me or you. Place the blame where we both know it belongs.
Know that i will always be with you, and that you were always my favorite person. Be good to him, and be the princess, i know that you are.
Love eternally, Jared.'

Sealing the letter he had his own personal servant charged with delivering it personally to the hand of the King of Rondel.

The next day an envoy from Rondel appeared with a treaty and presented it to the King of Turnaria.

Jared was present at this and sat by his fathers side as he received it. The treaty was stating there would be peace between the two kingdoms, and the cost of the damage done by Turnaria would be forgiven if he gave the hand of his daughter to the King of Rondel. If not he would recoup the losses out of his own treasury.
They would also join together to face bigger obstacles that threatened both of their kingdoms.

"Father this seems like a fair treaty, instead of money from the treasury, you can wed Tatiana to him, as well as have an ally against the Drunics and the Selonians. I am normally against anything that involves marrying off my sister. But this seems like a very smart strategic move."
"I agree son, I just hate to have play nice." Harold replied.
The King took a deep breath and sighed. "ok" he prepared the wax and quill and signed the treaty. Sealing the deal.
With the treaty signed the envoy took it and handed him the request to have courting rights to the princess, and to be married by the months end.
The King simply signed it and handed it back.

"When will you tell Tatiana?" Jared asked his father. "Why don't you tell her, I've got to find a way to replenish the treasury now that i can't count on her marriage. Maybe we can find you a rich wife." He stated thinking to himself as he went back to his books.

Jared sought out Tatiana. Taking her arm he took her for a walk in the garden. "I want you to listen to me" he said softly. Tatiana did not like it when her brother gave her this tone. "whatever it is No" she said blankly.
"Tat, this isn't a choice. Father has signed a treaty with Rondel. You will be marrying the King of Rondel by the end of the month. He will soon arrive to court you."
"you let this happen?" she cried at her brother. He'd always been her protector and now he'd conspired with her father. The betrayal upon her face was heartbreak.
"Tat, this is the right thing" he advised her. "No I won't do it" she advised like a spoiled child and ran back to the castle.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

Weeks passed and negotiations between himself and King Harold of Turnaria continued with envoys passing between them. Finally by the approach of Springday an agreement had been made. And now Thoren rode over the Silvercrest bridge into Turnaria. Two columns of his Royal gaurd accompanied him as an honor gaurd along with his host the past few weeks Baron Olver Von Hauchen, Lord Rivergard. They rode together surrounded by his soldiers proudly bearing a flag of a red and gold Griffin of Rondeland high in the mild spring breeze, along with the white flag of diplomacy beside it.

Springday was only a day away, and as custom demanded he and Baron Hauchen were dressed in colorful tunics and cloaks. His was green with red flashing and gold threads. Baron Hauchen wore blue with yellow stripes and silver threads. Also in keeping with tradition for Kings near Springday he wore a wreath of herbs and flower blossoms on his head.

"Mark my words your majesty," Baron Hauchen stated, "That Turnarian turncoat will betray any alliances you make with him. Bargain with caution and never turn your back on Harold."

Thoren nodded, not in agreement but more to appease the man. He knew Harold had a reputation for holding grudges, and for being of a most mercurial temperment. He and his father had never gotten along. Being in the same room with them was like being in a dry timber forest in a thunderstorm. The rivalry between Turnaria and Rondeland had flourished to a level under them that had not been known for generations. Thoren would've fallen sway to it like the rest of his countrymen if he hadn't met and befriended Prince Jared so many years ago while hunting in the Alenvale.

"I have made my decision, Baron Rivergard."

Hauchen scowled, and cast suspicious eyes upon the dumbstruck and gawking Turnarian peasantry as a foreign king passed them by. "No good will come of this, none at all."

Within the hour they approached the castle King Harold was staying in. He was greeted with the pomp and ceremony appropriate by Harold and thankfully Prince Jared. Though he still had not met his bride-to-be yet. He was told she was overseeing the preparations for Springday. And really Thoren didn't have any time to meet her. No sooner was he shown to his quarters was he summoned to meet with Harold to hammer out some of the last details of the alliance such as an appropriate dowry.

King Harold held his chubby hands behind his back as he paced the stone floor waiting for King Thoren to appear. "It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance" he stated his a unusually loud voice. After their dance of respectful bows he continued. "Lets get to the matter at hand shall we, considering marrying her is part of the condition of the treaty I'll add the the lower village of Thal that buds against yours. They yield decently in the harvest months. I'll also give 4000 dockets." the amount he offered was quite low. It simply showed the amount he thought his daughter was worth. Her value to him was minimal except as a tool in negotiations. Luckily she had gained her mothers looks, but not her mousy obedience.
--
Prince Jared paced back and forth in the hall outside of the throne room. There was no doubt whatever his father offered would be an insult to his sister, he hoped that his friend would see past this. The main purpose of the treaty was peace, his sister was simply an addition to ensure she would be safe and the possibility of happiness at her feet.
--
Tatiana made her selections of the flowers and fabrics and handled the invitations for spring day. She was measured for her wedding dress. The whole idea was preposterous. No she wasn't going to marry him or anyone. She didn't care what her father said. She sneaked behind the room in the servants passage and looked through to see a very handsome man talking to her father. He would have to be handsome, she thought. Sneaking out she made her way through the servants entrance to the meadow. With a whistle her horse came and she hopped upon his back and they took off over the fence.
They ran along the forest barrier as fast as her horse would take her. They both were in need of the wind rushing through their hair, feeling the power and freedom. Yes this was what she wanted..freedom. The idea of being forced to surrender to a man, to be used like a pawn in a game of chess, to be the sacrificial lamb, this was not acceptable. They rode like this for a good hour covering miles between her and the walls of the castle.
She knew she couldn't escape it, so with much pain they turned around and headed back to the castle at a much slower pace. Perhaps if they took their time he would take it as an insult and end negotiations. She smiled at the thought of the look upon her fathers face.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

Thoren was led to the King Harold's office and found him pacing the floor. He was a rather corpulent man and also looked to be a man seeking a way out from considerable strain. He looked up and announced brusquely, "It's a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance"

"We have met once before, King Harold," He said with a bow to his potential new ally, "Though I was only a child and you were fairly preoccupied with yelling angrily at my father, but that is in the past. I hope we can move forward in a spirit of cooperation and fellowship against mutual enemies to both of our kingdoms from this day forth."

Brushing aside Thoren's words Harold got right down to the business he had come for. "Lets get to the matter at hand shall we?"

"Yes, Let's," He said a little taken aback by the briskness in which he was pushing this along. Normally treaties of alliances such as this took weeks to work out.

"Considering marrying her is part of the condition of the treaty I'll add the the lower village of Thal that buds against yours. They yield decently in the harvest months. I'll also give 4000 dockets."

Thoren crinkled his eyes in thought at that. The village of Thal was reasonable the area around there had changed hands so many times in the border disputes between Rondeland and Turnaria that both countries had a legal claim to it. Yet how easily Harold offered it made him very cautious to accept. It would give Rondeland unquestioned control of the northern part of the Silvercrest and Alenvale forest. However Thoren had reliable information that Harold was hurriedly constructing a silvermine at the foot of Mount Alen and the Alen gap. That was a mountain considered sacred by the Druenic tribes, if they ever reunited they would certainly be enraged by the desecration of their god's burial mound by Harold's miners they would crash down the Alengap thirsty for blood. But actually to get to it they would have to go through the village of Thal. If the Druenic barbarians went on a rampage again he'd be forced to use his army to defend Thal and by extension Harold's silvermine. That was more than likely why Harold wanted to give him Thal without contest.

Also there was the matter of the 4,000 dockets as a dowry. That was an almost insulting price for the wedding of Harold's daughter. "I will think on this."

-----------------------------------------------X

Thoren did think it over that night. He had gotten little sleep for his worrying. It was not just the dowry, or the fact that he had not yet even seen up close his bride-to-be. It was the prospect of being married. His father had married for political reasons to his mother but there had been no love between them. He knew as royalty marrying for anything other than the considerations of state was the one luxury in life typically reserved to only the lucky few. He could only realistically hope that Princess Tatianna would be as civil and as shrewd an advisor as his mother was for his father. They had not loved eachother but had both served their kingdom the best they could as the king and Queen of Rondeland and if not had loved eachother had both definitely loved him. If Tatianna and himself could not marry for love then he hoped they could atleast share the sense of duty and civility his parents had shown.

Eventually morning came and servants and peasants scurried about as Thoren was dressed donning his flower and herb crown.

It was Springday and the halls were decorated with colorful strings of brightly even gaudily colored silks from Selonia, and vases of flowers, and sweet smelling herbs. Everyone wore dresses and tunics of bright or gaudy colors. Everyone was in good cheer. Many of the maids, and servant girls curtsied as he passed by with blushes and whispered words to eachother. His presence was garnering the attention and gossip of romantic fantasies of young girls.

Atleast he was able to share a pleasant breakfast with Jared, even beat him at a good long chess tournament. It was the most fun he had had for a long time-certainly since he became king. But alas, his keeper the good Baron Von Hauchen found him by afternoon and he was held captive going over every detail and implication of Harold's offered dowry far into the evening.

At last though he was freed for the Springday ball. He joined Harold in the grand hall, decorated and fragrant with festive Springday ornaments. Jared was in line at the forefront of the eligible highborn bachelors awaiting the approach of the priest and the presentation of the eligible maidens. The priest gave the traditional speech of the death of winter and the coming of new life and love and hope of springtime. He invoked the One God's blessing for the coming year. Then the doors to the great hall opened and women in colorful and elaborate formal gowns entered lining up opposite the line of bachelors standing and facing them.

The priest began speaking of the planned betrothal of Thoren and their dear princess. Through the open doors a figure came veiled in vright white sheer silk. At the priest's behest he and the veiled woman walked forth to meet in the middle of the hall between the two lines of bachelors and maidens.

This was the dance of unveiling. It was normally reserved for weddings which was a bit premature since he and Harold hadn't finalized the details, but Thoren was not about to ruin everyones festivities by objecting over a technicality.

According with the dance the bachelors and maidens stepped in selecting a partner. They reformed in a circled around them awaiting the unveiling of his bride and the start of the dance. His hands reached out taking hold of the veil and raising it up to give him the first close up veiw of his bride.

He looked at her for a moment transfixed by her beauty before raising his hand out in front of her. When she took it the dance would begin in earnest.

Her father had purposely arranged this unveiling display to lure Thoren in. Both herself and Jared were aware of his methods in detail. She had thought of placing one of the ladies in waiting in her place, but Jared was sure she didn't have the opportunity.

Having seen Thoren she knew already that he was handsome, her only hope was that she could dissuade him from going through with this. The long walk to the ball entrance made her anxious, and she considered several times bolting but Jared had seen to that as well by being sure she was surrounded. She glared at him through the veil as she passed him.

The way his hands lifted the veil caused her to pause. her crystal blue eyes locked with his for a moment as they took each other in. He offered her his hand and she took it. The touch of his skin was like electricity running through her body. The attraction to him was suddenly apparent.

A slight blush went over her cheeks as she looked away. The dance began and they performed like dancing dolls for the room. Her white dress flowed with the music as he performed every step perfectly. There wasn't really a chance to speak but she felt strongly she should warn him of her fathers subconscious intent.

Her brother cut in for a dance or two, but for most of the night it was Thoren whose hand was placed on the small of her back.
Yet other then the formalities of thank you and my pleasure, not much was spoken.

A non customary intermission was called so the dancers would take a break and partake in refreshments and the banquet that was provided. Finding the opportunity to slip away she did so thinking she wasn't being watched. She made her way down the servant stairs and out to the meadow, where she whistled for her horse so she could give him some apples and carrots she had smuggled.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

The music flowed, and they began dancing, at arms length, twirling across the floor, before changing partners as dictated by the formality of the dance itself. All of which made it difficult for Thoren to actually speak with Tatiana.

After the music ended and the dance was over Thoren was beset upon by courtiers and merchants seeking some advantage or other. He cast about between them looking for Tatiana but she had begun dancing with her brother by then. He was pleased to dance with her again three more times as the evening wore on.

But alas he couldn't be rid of his interested friends with business or administrative oppurtunitinies to propose to him. He tried to keep an eye on Tatiana but just caught a glimpse of her slipping out of the grand hall as the festivities began to wind down for an intermission.

He passed through the gauntlet talking and excusing himself as swiftly and as politely as he could manage before escaping the grand hall himself. A castle servant was kind enough to tell him where the princess had gone, in between coyly chuckling over how romantic it was to her.

Thanking her Thoren went down the servants' staircase nodding to the hasty curtsies and bows of servants as they passed him on the steps. And catching the snickers and whispers also. Turnarian or Rondel, all servants gossiped about the nobles they served.

The stairs went down to a courtyard outside the keep at the backside of the castle's stables. There he saw her feeding a carrot to the horse she had rode the first time he had seen her in the Alenvale.

He approached her. "Milady," He said in greeting to her, "It may be springday, but the nights can still have winter's chill on the wind." He removed his cloak and offered it to her. "I would not have you catch your death of a cold tonight."

He extended a hand and ran it gently over the neck of her horse. "A fine steed. Strong with obvious excellent breeding behind it. A beautiful animal," He looked at her not truly talking about just the horse. "But I can see it has a wild spirit and wishes to run free." He patted it on the flank. "A beautiful animal indeed. It would do me good to learn of its name."

Tatiana sighed as he spoke to her. "thank you" she said lightly taking his cloak and placing it over her shoulders. "Don't..." she started to say as he reached out and pet her stallions neck. She listened as he complimented the horse and patted his flank.

"His name is Valiant, mi lord" she said lightly "And he doesn't like anyone but me, I thought for sure you would be missing a hand. My father would have gotten rid of him long ago if anyone could have gotten near him. He says the horse encourages me." she snickered a little at that. Then remembered she was suppose to be making this difficult.

"I'm sure you've been warned, but perhaps a warning from his child may tell you the truth. My father is not known for keeping his truces. My guess is he offered you a very small price for my dowry. He's expecting you'll take that as an insult so he can pawn me off some where else. If you don't fall for that, well he'll surly find some other way to break it and make it look like it was your fault."

She waved her hand and the horse turned and headed off. "this whole ball was to get you to fall for me, he never intended you to actually speak to me outside that ball. He would be afraid that i'd tell you the truth, or that i would be less then civil. The truth is i don't want to marry you, or anyone. I will find a way out of this, if my father doesn't do what we always assume he will. Don't take it as personal but i do have some quarrel with only being married for my looks, my title, or whatever political agenda is in the making."

She took off his cloak and handed it back to him, turning and walking briskly away from him.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

"I'm sure you've been warned, but perhaps a warning from his child may tell you the truth. My father is not known for keeping his truces. My guess is he offered you a very small price for my dowry. He's expecting you'll take that as an insult so he can pawn me off some where else. If you don't fall for that, well he'll surely find some other way to break it and make it look like it was your fault."

"That would be in keeping with King Harold's reputation," Thoren nodded.

She waved off Valiant and said, "This whole ball was to get you to fall for me, he never intended you to actually speak to me outside that ball."

"Then it pleases me to be disrupting his plans here now."

"He would be afraid that i'd tell you the truth, or that i would be less than civil."

He nodded. What she had said was pretty much matching his own instincts on her father and his motivations.

"The truth is i don't want to marry you, or anyone," She said, "I will find a way out of this, if my father doesn't do what we always assume he will. Don't take it as personal but i do have some quarrel with only being married for my looks, my title, or whatever political agenda is in the making."

With that she turned to leave him standing there. Thoren came after her. "I agree with you. I have often dreamed of finding a woman whom I could love and whom could love me in turn, but those are the daydreams of a boy. My father taught me that in exchange for the wealth and priviledge the nobility is given we must give in trade the freedom of choice free from titles and politics. Most cruelly in the matter of marriage."

He stepped in front of her. "I beleive that for both of our kingdoms an alliance is essential." He placed a hand on her shoulder, "I have used you to acheive that, Tatiana." He knelt down to one knee. "I beg your forgiveness for that."

"I agree" she said lightly "for both of our kingdoms to survive and thrive an alliance is needed. But with my father ruling it will be impossible. My brother should be ruling, but until my fathers death that won't happen. I'm afraid he's likely to live forever and has probably made a deal with the devil to do so."

She looked at him as he said "I have used you to acheive that, Tatiana." He knelt down to one knee. "I beg your forgiveness for that."
"please get up" she advised in almost a whisper. "you are who you are you don't have to ask my forgiveness for doing what kings do, or what the laws are. I simply wish to not be a part of it." she sighed lightly and gripped his wrist and helping him up. Only to drag him behind her to the forest edge. Of course this was all highly improper, but an idea came to her head and she failed to filter it.

Luckily he seemed to be a good sport and let her lead him into the darkness. Finally she reached a spot where there was a small clearing with some stumps for them to sit upon.

"i have a proposition for you." she advised him. "I will provide you with all the information you need , troop positions etc, If you will dethrone my father and place my brother on the throne. I know you don't know him, but he is unlike my father, and is a good man. He will do the alliance with you, without all the song and dance. He will hold to his word. You will not have to marry me, nor i you. Then you will be free to find a woman that meets your heart, and i will be free to not be used as a bargaining chip. This is highly treacherous of me, if i wasn't such a good bargaining chip my father would hang me for it if he ever found out. But you and I both know this whole thing is a farce."

She couldn't see his face well enough to read his reactions. So she sat and waited for him to respond.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

"I have used you to acheive that, Tatiana." He knelt down to one knee. "I beg your forgiveness for that."

"You are who you are," She said dismissively, but Thoren wondered if she did disregard such a blunder on his part of her honor and worth. "You don't have to ask my forgiveness for doing what kings do, or what the laws are. I simply wish to not be a part of it."

"Then you are decided not to marry me under any circumstances," He asked looking away from her, "I suppose I could not convince you otherwise."

She grabbed him by the wrist and helped up on both feet and then pulled him over to the forested area outside the castle walls. There was an open glade the springtime moonlight shone through the forest canopy down upon her. To Thoren she looked like the mythical silver lady that ensorcels unwary travelers at night with her siren song off the road never to reclaim their journey and leave her again.

At her gesture he sat upon the stump facing her as she sat on one opposite him. "I have a proposition for you," She told him, "I will provide you with all the information you need , troop positions etc, If you will dethrone my father and place my brother on the throne."

His eyebrows shot up and he looked back on her eyes wide.

"I know you don't know him, but he is unlike my father, and is a good man. He will do the alliance with you, without all the song and dance. He will hold to his word," She continued, "You will not have to marry me, nor i you. Then you will be free to find a woman that meets your heart, and i will be free to not be used as a bargaining chip."

"My good lady," He said, "You are speaking treason against your king."

"This is highly treacherous of me, if i wasn't such a good bargaining chip my father would hang me for it if he ever found out. But you and I both know this whole thing is a farce."

He got up and paced in thought. "This is not something one should consider lightly." He pursed his lips and looked back on her. "You are undoubtedly right that Jared would be a far better king and ally than your father, but what you suggest will not be so easily accomplished without answering some questions. To whom will the Turnarian army place their allegiance toward Harold or your brother? And what of your father's vassals? Where do their loyalties lie? If...IF...if I were to use my army to depose your father and they are loyal to Harold the Turnarian nobility and the army would never accept your brother as their king. They would always perceive him as my puppet on your father's throne. If either of those questions can not be answered favorably I will not even consider what you have proposed."

He turned back around to face her, "Answer carefully, Princess, this course of thought threatens to set your kingdom onto the path of the horror of civil war, and mine along with it."

Tatiana hadn't intentionally ignored the question he asked regarding marrying him under any circumstance. But the new plan had formed so rapidly in her mind she was quick to respond by taking him to the forest.

"I will admit Sir, that i have not thoroughly planned through every detail. But i can arrange a meeting between you and my brother. This is one of the few things I could not do without his support. You must think horribly of me, to speak of treason as I am. But i assure you, if it wasn't the better choice for the people of the kingdom, not to mention your bordering villages, i wouldn't suggest it. I suppose it does seem self serving, but i would sacrifice my happiness for those of the people." She got up and paced a bit before looking up at him.

"In honesty, i don't want any more wars. I just don't know of another way that could bind our Kingdoms. Even if my father did go through with this whole marriage treaty, it would only be a matter of time before it was broken."

She was becoming flustered with trying to find a way that would satisfy everyone. "I wish i had more of a political mind." she said exasperated as she sat down on the cool leafy covered ground.

"The people of the land would rejoice to be under Jared's ruling, as for the army, they will support their king. Whether it be Jared or my father. That is their sworn fealty. But if set before both my father and Jared and told to pick one, i believe that Jared would the one they chose. The people are as tired of wars and being plundered, as my father is at hearing them beg for leniency."

She slowly rose from the ground. "I'm sorry, this isn't your problem. As always i'm out of line in making requests. For all you know my brother and I could be just as bad as my father is. They'll be wondering where we've gone." she said lightly as she started to walk back toward the castle.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

He turned back around to face her, "Answer carefully, Princess, this course of thought threatens to set your kingdom onto the path of the horror of civil war, and mine along with it."

"I will admit, Sir," Tatiana stated, "That i have not thoroughly planned through every detail. But i can arrange a meeting between you and my brother. This is one of the few things I could not do without his support."

Thoren nodded, "Good, I would not even begin to consider supporting your plan without speaking with Jared of it first."

"You must think horribly of me, to speak of treason as I am." She continued, "But i assure you, if it wasn't the better choice for the people of the kingdom, not to mention your bordering villages, i wouldn't suggest it."

"I do not wish to judge you poorly, princess," Thoren said, "But on one hand your plan does look a little self-serving. However I know having met your father you have your reasons."

She got up and paced saying, "I suppose it does seem self serving, but i would sacrifice my happiness for those of the people."

"Good," He nodded, "I would hate to think you were the same as the Selonian nobility so removed from the plight of the common man to conquer or oppress whole peoples for rather menial gains of prestige. My mother came from that world and it took some years for her to see the people of her new kingdom as anything more than pawns on a chessboard for her advantage." He paused, "Don't get me wrong, Tatiana, I loved my mother dearly, but she had a rather predatory political mind gained from her time among the Selonian court."

Frustrated she sat on the clearing grass covered ground, "I wish i had more of a political mind."

He sat beside her, "And I wish I didn't need to use what my mother taught me, but in this case if Jared agrees to it I feel there is some truth in what you say. Harold has been less than ameniable to my overtures for an Alliance while Jared I feel I can trust at my side against our mutual threats."

"The people of the land would rejoice to be under Jared's ruling," She told him, "As for the army, they will support their king. Whether it be Jared or my father. That is their sworn fealty. But if set before both my father and Jared and told to pick one, i believe that Jared would the one they chose."

"There you are, you have more of a political mind than you give yourself credit for," He smiled to her. "And what of the people themself, my good lady, what would they want?"

"The people are as tired of wars and being plundered, as my father is at hearing them beg for leniency."

"I will need to speak with Jared over this," He said rubbing the hair on his chin of his neatly groomed goatee. "Perhaps when we hunt tomorrow we can blend sport with politics this one time."

She got up brushing the leaves off her gown, "I'm sorry, this isn't your problem," She stated, "As always i'm out of line in making requests."

He got up after her, "Hold on here. I haven't said I wouldn't do it yet."

"For all you know my brother and I could be just as bad as my father is."

"Not Jared, I would count my life on it," He took her by the elbow, "And on my first impression of you Tatiana, I would say you are nothing like King Harold either." He pulled her around to look into her eyes peering deep. His face growing closer lips perilously close to hers. "The fact that you even care enough to say that demonstrates the truth of it." His lips brushed hers the barest of touches, but one that asked or promised so much more.

"They'll be wondering where we've gone." She turned from him and began heading back towards the castle.

Thoren watched her leave studying the mesmerizing play of the moonlight over the length of her hair the gentle sway of hips under the bustle of the gown just hinting at the treasure underneath. His father had been a notorious woman-chaser, and Thoren hadn't considered he may have inherited that trait as he had his father's crown until now watching his betrothed leave the clearing.

Shaking himself he came after her and stepped along side her. "Awake early enough to go on the hunt with me and Jared tomorrow morning. We will discuss your proposal together."

Veroe said:

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

Thoren nodded, "Good, I would not even begin to consider supporting your plan without speaking with Jared of it first."
She smiled softly

"I do not wish to judge you poorly, princess," Thoren said, "But on one hand your plan does look a little self-serving. However I know having met your father you have your reasons."
She nodded. He was right on all accounts.

"Good," He nodded, "I would hate to think you were the same as the Selonian nobility so removed from the plight of the common man to conquer or oppress whole peoples for rather menial gains of prestige. My mother came from that world and it took some years for her to see the people of her new kingdom as anything more than pawns on a chessboard for her advantage." He paused, "Don't get me wrong, Tatiana, I loved my mother dearly, but she had a rather predatory political mind gained from her time among the Selonian court."
She looked at him softly for a moment. They suddenly didn't seem so different.

"There you are, you have more of a political mind than you give yourself credit for," She laughed softly, almost blushing.

"I will need to speak with Jared over this," He said rubbing the hair on his chin of his neatly groomed goatee. "Perhaps when we hunt tomorrow we can blend sport with politics this one time."
"of course" she said lightly


Thoren watched her leave studying the mesmerizing play of the moonlight over the length of her hair the gentle sway of hips under the bustle of the gown just hinting at the treasure underneath. His father had been a notorious woman-chaser, and Thoren hadn't considered he may have inherited that trait as he had his father's crown until now watching his betrothed leave the clearing.

Shaking himself he came after her and stepped along side her. "Awake early enough to go on the hunt with me and Jared tomorrow morning. We will discuss your proposal together."

Click to expand...

She stopped for a moment and turned to him. "You would do that? Talk to my brother with me?" She looked up into his eyes silently for a moment before speaking. "You seem rather sure of my brother, why is that?" she questioned. "You also refer to him informally, as if you know him almost as well as i do." She squinted her eyes and looked at him. "what are you not telling me i wonder." she then smiled.

"I need to apologize to you. I don't know you reasons for adding me as part of the treaty. Especially being that you seem to want the emotional part of the union. I'm sure you've heard the horror stories about me. I assure you they are all true. My poor brother is beside himself with frustration." She took his arm and turned walking away from the castle. "when we were little he use to get so mad at me. They would give me a doll, and i would take one of his swords and leave the doll in its place." she smiled looking up at the stars.
"he's going to be angry at me for approaching you with this idea. He doesn't like me involved in anything 'non ladylike'." she signed softly "so although i will join you tomorrow morning, don't be put off by his frown and shortness" she laughed at the thought of his face.

"I don't want you to think that its you i object to as far as the marriage goes. You are much different then i anticipated you would be. Its simply that my father uses me to lure in potential allies, he makes several offers to several kingdoms all including me as part of the package. Then decides that he could get more from someone else. It doesn't matter to him whether I am happy or not. I wish i could say this was the first ball I've been forced to. But it's also the first one my brother has supported. It was almost as if it was him that created the deal." She moved her arm from his as she watched his face.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

Shaking himself he came after her and stepped along side her. "Awake early enough to go on the hunt with me and Jared tomorrow morning. We will discuss your proposal together."

She stopped and turned to regard him, "You would do that? Talk to my brother with me?"

"Of course," He nodded with a smile liking her gaze on him, "It's a reasonable proposal to our mutual impasse of your father and Jared should consider it."

"You seem rather sure of my brother, why is that?" She questioned.

"We played chess this morning," He prevaricated. It wasn't strictly speaking a lie. He could learn alot about a man over how he played chess, but "A man can gain alot of knowledge about another man from how he plays the game of kings."

"You also refer to him informally, as if you know him almost as well as i do." Her eyes narrowed in suspicion. "what are you not telling me i wonder."

"I suppose you have me. Yes I am witholding something from you." He reached out and tenderly ran his fingertips over the surface of her cheek. "If you wish to know I will tell you, but not until the morning with Jared's consent. Secrets are mutual things between people and telling them can easily become a betrayal."

She smiled apparently accepting his putting it off. "I need to apologize to you. Especially being that you seem to want the emotional part of the union. I'm sure you've heard the horror stories about me. I assure you they are all true. My poor brother is beside himself with frustration."

"You're wrong, Tatiana," He shook his head, "You want the same connection in marriage as I do. You only object to being told to form that connection with me. And you're brother loves you and admires your spirit. He is frustrated because he feels forced to be the one bound by duty in your family. Responsibility shouldered alone is a heavy burden."

She took his arm then and they began to walk to the keep proper. "when we were little he used to get so mad at me. They would give me a doll, and i would take one of his swords and leave the doll in its place."

"That's right, Jared said you were the finest with a sword in either of our kingdoms," He smiled to her, "That's a bold claim. Before we part ways I would dearly like to test your talents with practice foils in the sparring circle."

Yet like in dueling with a sword in hand, Tatiana would not be deflected from her subject, "he's going to be angry at me for approaching you with this idea," She sighed, "He doesn't like me involved in anything 'non ladylike'. so although i will join you tomorrow morning, don't be put off by his frown and shortness" She laughed then.

He laughed also, "That will not deter you from going anyway, will it?" He steadied his face, "But do not worry about that. The hard part will be getting him to listen to you seriously as we explain your idea to him."

"I don't want you to think that its you i object to as far as the marriage goes."

"Good," He nodded, "In your position I too would object to being the pawn moved on the chessboard. I would do as I was asked, for the good of my country, but like you I would object stridently."

"You are much different then i anticipated you would be."

That admission brought out a broad smile of satisfaction on his face. He had decided he would definitely pursue this unconventional princess.

"Its simply that my father uses me to lure in potential allies, he makes several offers to several kingdoms all including me as part of the package. Then decides that he could get more from someone else. It doesn't matter to him whether I am happy or not. I wish i could say this was the first ball I've been forced to. But it's also the first one my brother has supported. It was almost as if it was him that created the deal."

He stopped and looked at her. "Whether it was by your choice or not, or whether it was by some scheme of your father or your brother is the thought of marrying me truly that repellant to you?"

He smiled raising her hand so he could place a genteel kiss on the back of her fingers. "It's getting late, and we have to rise early in the morning. Good night and pleasant dreams." He turned to leave but looked over his shoulder back at her, "Tatiana, think on what I asked. Consider it seriously, I implore you."

With that he headed back up the servant's staircase and the springday ball still going on within the great hall.

"Whether it was by your choice or not, or whether it was by some scheme of your father or your brother is the thought of marrying me truly that repellant to you?"

For the first time she didn't know what to say. She found herself speachless. He didn't seem to take offense instead he smiled raising her hand so he could place a genteel kiss on the back of her fingers. "It's getting late, and we have to rise early in the morning. Good night and pleasant dreams." "Good Night Sire" she responded softly still trying to find an answer to his question. He turned to leave but looked over his shoulder back at her, "Tatiana, think on what I asked. Consider it seriously, I implore you."
She nodded with the look of bewilderment still upon her face.

After he parted she walked down the path to the garden and sat upon the edge of the fountain. The idea of marrying anyone had never crossed her mind. But she found herself off balance with Thoren. Was it because he was so handsome, or because he talked to her like and equal. She wasn't repelled by him in the least. It was quite the opposite. That bothered her, and threw her off guard. Eventually she made her way back into the castle and to bed.

Morning came quickly, the dew still upon the long grass as she made her way out the servants entrance and to the meadow. With a whistle her stallion came quickly. Deciding to be proper for once she placed a side saddle upon him, and mounted him in one of her best dresses. She'd taken quite care in getting ready.

Jared approached the stables to find his sister upon her horse. "Absolutely not" he advised her sternly a bit taken back by the fact she looked proper.
"I was invited by my betrothed, you wouldn't want to disappoint him would you?" she questioned making a point she knew he couldn't refuse.
"What are you up to?" Jared asked as he waited for his horse to be saddled.
"So suspicious brother" she teased.
"Nice disappearing act last night, luckily it seemed our guest went to bed early or i would be upset."
Tatiana sighed and rolled her eyes. "I don't know why you're always ready to assume the worst of me. It's not like i came dressed like a boy. I will be the perfect idea of what you think a princess should be. I have full intention on doing my part."
Jared wasn't sure what to think. There was definitely something a foot that his sister wasn't mentioning. She probably had some elaborate scheme to attempt to put Thoren off her.

"Tat, I know you well enough to know that you have something planned in your head that will end this betrothal before father pulls one of his tricks." His voice changed to one of a more desperate plead. "But i am begging you give him a chance. He will make you happy, and get you away from here."
Tatiana's face soften as she listened to him. "What aren't you telling me Jared? she questioned. "How do you know him?"
Jared looked a bit thrown off by the question. But let it quickly slide knowing how perceptive his sister was.

He opened his mouth to speak but stopped upon seeing Thoren approaching.

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

Blaming the combination of a headache and the fact he intended to rise early in the morning Thoren was able to excuse himself from the ongoing ball and he headed to his quarters and to sleep. However a restfull night's slumber eluded him. He tossed and turned as thoughts of the answer to his question his betrothed would give him. He had not been known to be some fop over a pretty face, but the play of moonlight over her pale skin and golden locks, the ferocity of her spirit, the enchanting and tantalising glimpse of her smile kept him only able to catch some sleep in fits and starts.

Eventually Dawn rose above the pasturelands and feilds of Turnaria. He rose with it and dressed for the morning's hunting glad that he was no longer obligated by tradition to wear his crown of flowers and herbs. He strapped the Von Rondel sword, weilded by his ancestor-Thoren Von Rondel I-Thoren the great who united the Rondel people under one banner to fend off the rampage and pillaging of the first Druenic horde's invasion of Turnaria and Rondeland. He also hefted his fine recurved riding bow and quiver his father had given him on his sixteenth birthday.

Once dressed and prepared he headed downstairs noting the quiet as most everyone was still sleeping off the wine and staying up even past the midnight hour for the ball last night. Finally approaching the stables he noticed Jared and Tatiana waiting for him.

"Tat, I know you well enough to know that you have something planned in your head that will end this betrothal before father pulls one of his tricks." He heard Jared plead with her. "But i am begging you give him a chance. He will make you happy, and get you away from here."

Tatiana in turn looked at him from where she sat atop the spirited white stallion from the night before. "What aren't you telling me Jared? How do you know him?"

Jared looked taken aback by the question as he came up to them. "Happy new year Prince Jared, Princess Tatiana." He gave her a formal bow.

He went within to retrieve his own horse. Strider like Tatiana's steed, Valliant, was a spirited stallion, but he had always had a way with horses as Tatiana had discovered last night. If he was not born a prince and now a king he'd often thought he would've liked to spend his years raising and training horses. Strider welcomed him with a playful brush of its head against him. He had raised strider since he was only a foal, and trusted the horse like few others.

With the aid of a stableboy, named Henry, he saddled and brought him out of the stable to where Jared and Tatiana waited for him. "We'll head north into the Alenvale as far as our island of neutral ground on the Silvercrest, brother."

"My lady," He nodded to Tatiana, "If you'll be patient until then we will explain what you want to know of us, and then we can make our case to Jared."

He noticed Captain Bardolowe and four of his gaurdsmen mounting their own steeds to join them. Also Five Turnarian gaurdsmen were preparing to leave with them. "Captain," He told the grizzled old veteran that had gaurded his life for years, "I only intend myself, Prince Jared, and Princess Tatiana to come along this time. You may stay..." He stopped himself before he gave the man an order he would see as his duty to ignore. If he did he would have to be punished-reassignment probably-to save him from resigning his commission on his own. Bardolowe was too good a gaurdsman to lose. "Stay a respectful distance away again, Captain," Then he asked, "Why are the Turnarians coming?"

Bardolowe shrugged, "Apparently, sire, they found the notion of the crown prince and princess escorted by Rondel soldiers on Turnarian soil too shameful to allow. So with some conversation with Captain Denton we agreed on five Rondels and five Turnarians to escort you all."

"Very well Captain," He sighed mounting Strider and adjusting his riding bow. He looked at Jared and Tatiana. Why had she dressed so formally for hunting, and riding sidesaddle? Did she not know the uneven gametrails through the alenvale would force her to ride slow. He looked back at their escort. On the other hand it was unlikely they'd catch sight of any game this excursion with them following after and their armor making so much noise.

"Jared if you would lead the way," He said nodding to the open portcullis of the castle and the woodlands north.

He rode alongside Tatiana. Her hair fluttered in the breeze with the motions of her steed, "You look well this morning, Princess. You look beautiful like the white rider of legends ahorse. I had thought so from the first moment I saw you."

"Happy new year Prince Jared, Princess Tatiana." Thoren gave her a formal bow. She couldn't help but smile at the way his hair swept over his cheek as his arm crossed his broad chest. One well muscled leg coming out in front as he bowed. "Good Morning King Thoren" she responded before her brother.

"We'll head north into the Alenvale as far as our island of neutral ground on the Silvercrest, brother."
"Brother?" she asked taken off guard again by the familiarity of the twos relationship. Especially when Jared simply responded "it sounds like a plan".

"My lady," Thoren nodded to Tatiana, "If you'll be patient until then we will explain what you want to know of us, and then we can make our case to Jared."

She opened her mouth to object but her brothers glance caused her to pierce her lips closed and give Jared a stare of discontentment. "As you wish King" she responded lightly as he took inventory of the guardsmen.

"Jared if you would lead the way," Thoren said nodding to the open portcullis of the castle and the woodlands north. "My pleasure brother" he advised with a smirk and a glance back at his sister and her formal attire shaking his head.
Despite the uneven terrain Valiant kept up with the two gentlemen despite her sidesaddle. Almost loosing her grip a couple of times, she managed to stay on their heals. How embarrassing it would have been if she had fallen off. They finally reached a place of open ground and they slowed their horses. Thoren pulled back and walked his stallion beside hers "You look well this morning, Princess. You look beautiful like the white rider of legends ahorse. I had thought so from the first moment I saw you." Tatiana was use to random compliments regarding her looks. She deemed it a curse a long time ago. Jared over hearing the compliment took in a deep breath as if preparing for her to say something utterly distasteful. Tatiana bit her bottom lip lightly before speaking. "Thank you for your gracious words King Thoren, I encourage you not to say your thoughts on my appearance in front of my father. He'll think he can lessen the dowry." She smiled as her brother started laughing.

Reaching an open area they dismounted and lead the horses through the tall grasses.

"Okay you two, out with it." she advised as they began making a resting spot.
She listened to her brother told her about how they met, and how they had been friends for many years.
Tatiana was going through a range of emotions. She was hurt her brother hadn't told her of his friendship, but even more so that he went behind her back and planned an exit plan for her.

"How could you do that?" she questioned Jared with a definite expression of betrayal across her face. "you know as well as i do that father will reject this treaty, just like he does every deal." she shook her head and paced before the two of them.
"Jared, you are the only one that has ever looked out for me. You are the one that played with me as a child, and indulged my whims. Never have you thought of me as a bargaining chip, regardless of how many times our father has implored you to do so. Your place" she knelt before him and King Thoren to speak in more of a whisper. "is on the throne. Our people deserve a King that will look out for their interests, one that will not see them as possesions but as people with needs. You are the one that taught me about compassion. It is because of this that i have come up with my own plan and taken the steps to discuss it with your friend. Only with the condition that you are for it my brother."

Tatiana then went into further detail with her brother over what her and Thoren had discussed. His first reaction was one of shock, but with Thorens help interpreting what she was saying he eventually understood and agreed with their treasonous plan.

As the sun began to go down they took their leaves of their meeting spot and headed back to the castle. Jareds mind was full of thoughts and concerns as would be expected for the undertaking they were to all encompass upon.

Tatiana placed her hand lightly and inconspicuously on Thorens arm as they dismounted at the stable. Saying without words she wished to speak to him. The guards were all dismissed and they headed happily to the kitchen for dinner. It was good to see the two sets of men joking and talking together.

Her brother advised lightly for them to not be long as he headed toward the castle as well.

After brushing down her horse and setting him loose in the pasture she waited for Thoren and then took his arm heading toward the garden.

"Last night you had asked me a question that had me perplexed. I would like to take the opportunity to answer you." she smiled softly and continued. "It isn't you that i reject. You are different then any one else that's been placed before me. I have enjoyed your company thus far. I can understand why you and my brother are such great friends. He is unlike anyone else as well." she smiled and continued to walk with him. "The only example that i have of marriage is that of my parents. Her whole life has been wrapped around him, worshiping him as if she were some mindless drone. To her he can do no wrong, to him she simply a breeding mare that he's forced to tolerate. She provided him the heir to his legacy, and a bargaining chip. If he could put her down like an old dog he would. I have spent time with people in the villages. It is through them that I learned how parents should regard their children. It is through them that I also glimpsed a different type of relationship between a husband and a wife. Whether it be a glance or a smile of admiration." she smiled lightly looking up at the stars before speaking again.
"I will never be the ideal wife that these countries seek when i'm thrown is as part of the deal. They see how docile my mother is and expect that i will be the same. That is the reason i'm watched so carefully at the balls, and forbidden to be alone with the suitors. After the first few went running my father finally figured out that i wasn't the ideal bargaining chip." she couldn't help but laugh.
"I don't know that i'll ever consider marriage, but if I ever do it will be with someone that isn't intimidated by my opinions, someone that will take me seriously as an equal partner. I hope that i helped to answer your question."

IC: Thoren Von Rondel IX

To his credit Jared had not been an easy man to persuade. He had resisted Tatiana's proposal resolutely, but with his helpful assistance, she had disarmed each argument he made against it as deftly as if she had a rapier in hand at the dueling circle. Thoren thought that deep down Jared knew they were right, but he continued to resist until his last excuse was soundly defeated.

He felt for Jared and Tatiana. His own father had been a lecherous man with a quick and stubborn temper, but he was a competent and good king, and he had loved Thoren very much. That was not the case for Harold. He treated his children and his people as commodities to be used and bartered.

Throughout the ride through the Alenvale as the afternoon became evening and then dusk Thoren thought over what would be required of him with some consternation. He needed to ask himself the question whether he was risking plunging Turnaria and Rondeland both into the horrors of civil war for the affections of a pretty face. He didn't think so. He did not think Harold would keep the alliance with him, and his mismanagement of his own kingdom was a liability....but were those reasons or justifications?

And all of it hinged upon whether she even wanted to marry him in the first place. He was still worried over the answer to his question she would give him.

As they returned to the castle he had not reached an answer. He returned strider to the stable and handed Captain Bardolowe his hunting bow and the sword of Von Rondel to return to his quarters. He left the stables to find Tatiana waiting for him. She led him back to the garden they had first spoke to eachother in last night.

"Last night you had asked me a question that had me perplexed. I would like to take the opportunity to answer you." she smiled softly and continued. "It isn't you that i reject. You are different then any one else that's been placed before me. I have enjoyed your company thus far. I can understand why you and my brother are such great friends. He is unlike anyone else as well."

The walked past flowering jasmine and firedrop bushes. "He would be a fine king too."

Thoren took her hand in his as she continued. "The only example that i have of marriage is that of my parents. Her whole life has been wrapped around him, worshiping him as if she were some mindless drone. To her he can do no wrong, to him she simply a breeding mare that he's forced to tolerate. She provided him the heir to his legacy, and a bargaining chip. If he could put her down like an old dog he would. I have spent time with people in the villages. It is through them that I learned how parents should regard their children. It is through them that I also glimpsed a different type of relationship between a husband and a wife. Whether it be a glance or a smile of admiration."

"It must have been very hard on you growing up like that. I imagine the castle servants weren't much help treating you as their golden princess rather than a little girl all the time also," He said as the stopped to gaze up at the stars. The moon was a silver crescent and on a clear night like this one they could see the bright blue guidestar sailors use to mark the courses, part of the two lovers constellation, the lips merging in kiss across the heavens around the guidestar.

"I will never be the ideal wife that these countries seek when i'm thrown is as part of the deal. They see how docile my mother is and expect that i will be the same. That is the reason i'm watched so carefully at the balls, and forbidden to be alone with the suitors. After the first few went running my father finally figured out that i wasn't the ideal bargaining chip." She stated.

"I do not wish you to be my docile trophy wife, Tatiana," He told her taking a finger and guiding her by the the chin to look at him eye to eye, "I hope that you saw that in me last night."

"I don't know that i'll ever consider marriage," She said and his heart skipped a beat at her words, "but if I ever do it will be with someone that isn't intimidated by my opinions, someone that will take me seriously as an equal partner. I hope that i helped to answer your question"

"That is relieving. You will have to be vocal, oppinionated, strong, and clever as my queen," Thoren told her, "My mother set a hard example you would have to live up to. So did my grandmother, and great grandmother and so on all the way back to Helena the Fair who married my namesake Thoren the Great. My people and I would expect much from you. Rondel queens are expected to take part in ruling the kingdom in conjunction with their husbands."

The warmth of his fingers traveled through her chin as he raised it to look into her eyes. Her eyes searched his as if looking for something. But it was his mouth that delivered the words she needed. "That is relieving. You will have to be vocal, opinionated, strong, and clever as my queen," Thoren told her, "My mother set a hard example you would have to live up to. So did my grandmother, and great grandmother and so on all the way back to Helena the Fair who married my namesake Thoren the Great. My people and I would expect much from you. Rondel queens are expected to take part in ruling the kingdom in conjunction with their husbands."

A soft blush covered her cheeks, her eyes lowering from his gaze as she contemplated all that he had to offer. Looking sternly back into his eyes she spoke "when this is all over, I give you my word that I will consent to you courting me if that is your wish. With all that we are about to undertake, I think that we should all remain focused on the objectives at hand. You told me last night you sought affection of the heart. My wish is that you are sure of that before you propose to me. I know that you are taken with my appearance, for that has been the weapon my father has used against all. But there is more to me then that." Her hand moved to his which was under her chin and gently moved it. "win my heart Thoren, and you will win my hand." she told him softly before stepping back and taking his hand to resume their walk.

Much of their walk was in silence. They both had a great deal to think of and consider. She was about to commit treason, and had gotten her brother to agree. His part was simple, he would turn his head and not notice the conspiracy unfold. Many would loose their lives in this war that would come, so many could live better in the times to come. This weighed heavy on her, yet she would say nothing to either. Small talk encumbered their walk before they went back to the castle and said good night.

She found it almost painful to say goodnight to him. His company had quickly become something she enjoyed. She rose early and made her way to barracks. Dressed in mans clothes again she taunted a couple of the guards. It was how she became such a skilled fighter. It was a guilty pleasure she took at least once a week to keep her skills sharp. "oh don't be such a girl" she taunted a couple of guards with a smile upon her face. It was the only way she could get them to fight her with all they had. Their greatest fear was harming her, yet she never lost. The captain of the guard simply laughed at his mens resistance and stepped into the ring with her. "now princess don't cause me to loose face in front of my men." he said with a smirk. "George, if you didn't want to loose face then you shouldn't have stepped in the ring." she taunted raising up her sword.
Then it began. He was the most skilled out of all of his men, and still hadn't won a round with her. But he did help her keep her skills tuned and her wit sharp. The clinging of blades began as they fought in the ring. She was quick and agile, which was a great benefit as she lunged and parried. Then men cheered for their captain, and some for the princess. It was a weekly release for all.
By the time she had him surrender they were both covered in sweat and dirt with large smiles across their faces. "you know you should let me train your men George" she advise with a teasing smirk.
-------------
Jared hardly found any peaceful sleep. On one hand he was elated that his sister and his best friend had gotten along so well. On the other hand it wasn't the way he had intended. He knew better then to underestimate his sister, yet some how he always managed to do just that. He smiled shaking his head and getting dressed. He vowed to himself to never to be like his father, or have a wife like his mother.
He dressed himself and went down to the hall for breakfast. His father and mother were there and some of the guests that remained from the ball. But both his sister and Thoren were absent. After breakfast he followed his father into the throne room as the doors were closed behind them.
"I have decided" said his father. Jared closed his eyes and gritted his teeth knowing what they all knew was to come. "This wedding may not be the most strategic plan" the king continued.
"Don't do this father, not again. You have alienated so many by using Tatiana as a bargaining chip, if you do this to a neighbor that you have already caused conflict with, it will certainly result in war."
His father simply waved his hand dismissing the comment. "He is not half the man his father was, and his father wouldn't have even gone to war against us. The boy doesn't hold the stomach for it. Once he and his party has gone we will send notice regarding the breaking of the treaty."
Jareds face began turning red as he tried hard to bite his tongue but failed to shouting "This is a grave error father" and stormed from the room.