Disgraced

[Lady_Gamer]

This thread is closed for Maka.​

Alexandria Vaelyn’s weary expression melted as her eyes settled on the outline of Enderthal City. She allowed a small smile to cross her lips as she studied the sight upon the horizon – it was dusk, and the faint flames of torches within the city were already visible. Glancing away from the distant light, she would be reminded by the surrounding darkness that her week of travels was not yet concluded. It seemed likely that it would be a couple more hours before she reached home.

Home. Alex reflected on that thought for a second. Until recently, she had considered Sunvale as her home. It had been her domain – her birthright. She had mixed feelings about the complete loss of her holdings; a landless noble was little more than a commoner. Alex knew that she should’ve been devastated – ashamed that her father had squandered their wealth and failed to pay taxes to the King. Hell, he couldn’t even account for how much of what was being produced or be bothered to have contact with the peasants he “ruled”. The county quickly collapsed on itself but was largely looked over by the throne for half a dozen years. By the time Alex knew there was a serious issue, it was nigh impossible to fix the situation. And while all of this should have caused her great grief, she somehow found her father’s disgrace with profound amusement.

Perhaps one would have to understand Alex’s relationship with her father to not believe her to be completely insane on that note. As a child, Alexandria was spoiled and cherished by all those around her. Her father wasn’t a failure – his brave exploits as a young man brought his house honor and he once worked hard for his titles. But after his wife’s death, he changed. He was never malicious towards his daughter, but she became quickly so towards him. The once great Lord Vaelyn took to mourning by way of constant intoxication and the distraction of questionable women. Alexandria had been thirteen at the time and was not unaware of or quiet about his consumption or the lavish treatment he allowed his whores. Her efforts to ground her father in reality and somehow help him to regain his former self were completely lost. Eventually he found some noble-blooded whore to call his own. She didn’t tolerate Alexandria’s righteous attacks on her father’s wastefully luxurious lifestyle that was “grossly outside of necessity and shamefully beyond their means.” Alex was certain that was the last thing she had said when her father’s whore started calling for her to be sent away.

Alexandria was glad for that. She spent five years in Enderthal City, attending an academy. A formal education that was paid at the kingdom’s expense because of her supposedly superior bloodline was not taken for granted. She was careful not to publicly disrespect the name of her father – she learned early on that nobles had little better to do than gossip about each other. She had no interest in becoming an object for discussion. Despite her efforts to hold back her potentially venomous tongue and generally get along with her peers, she lacked their sense of entitlement and often found herself desiring alternate company. It was within months of her arrival that she argued with her handler about whether or not she could enroll in a military training program. Alex recalled the memory fondly.

It wasn’t that females weren’t allowed among the ranks. Military training was available to anyone who was even remotely interested in swinging a sword in the name of the King. Peasant women were not so lucky as the high-born and were expected to carry their weight as much as any man. Alex was insulted that her handler tried to dissuade her by insisting that she didn’t need to learn to fight – she would be married and live happily ever after in some far away castle with a complete stranger simply because of her bloodline. When Alex’s father was petitioned in the case, he responded that Alexandria would do as she pleased.

His lack of concern in the case only fueled the girl’s resolve to be independent. She spent years telling herself that her father would fail her completely: and she was right. That’s where the profound amusement part came in. She didn’t feel like she really lost anything – she was well prepared ahead of time. She had made a trip to what was once home to collect some relics of her childhood after hearing word that her father’s lands were being withdrawn from his control. She spared him the lectures upon her return; it would do little good for either of them. Instead, she said little and was prone to wandering. Alex only stayed a couple of days – it was all she could take.

And now, Enderthal City was near. She had secured a place among the Guards before her departure – even without a concrete promise of her return day, the Captain had given her work. She was certainly trained well enough, and he no doubt knew that her marriage prospects would decline with her loss of dowry and prestige.

As a graduate of the academy, she was no longer entitled to boarding within the dorms. She suspected she would be stuck renting a room within a tavern for awhile. As she approached the western entrance to the city, she knew precisely where she would go. The Emerald Dragon.

The sign hanging above the door was emblazoned with the image of its namesake. Alex was well aware that most of those inside lacked the ability to read – the crowd was generally comprised commoners. After finding a stable for her horse, the young woman approached the heavy wooden door that led into the Emerald Dragon. Her entrance went largely unnoticed by the patrons. Her blue eyes scanned over the crowd as she approached the barkeep and inquired about a room. The matter was concluded quickly with the passing of coins in exchange for a key. She turned and started for the stairwell when her gaze fell upon a familiar form. She couldn’t feign surprise – she knew that he stayed here. He was sitting alone, as he often did, his attention directed at a book. It was an unpopular activity in this particular venue.

Alex gained a small smile as she approached his table. “Hey, Will.” As she seated herself, she pushed back the hood of her cloak, allowing her golden hair to cascade freely over her shoulders. It had a chaotic wave to it – all but her sweeping bangs, which she took great pain in straightening. As the man lifted his gaze to meet hers, she wondered what sort of reception she would receive.

The two had known each other ever since Alexandria enrolled in the military training program. It had taken all of one day for her noble counterparts to inform her that Will was the bastard son of the Warlord. Apparently, his father had taken charge of his care and no one knew anything about his mother. Will was not allowed a title or the lifestyle of the nobility, but he was given enough of a perk over his peers that he was essentially an outcast from both groups. He received an education and was comfortably housed for the earlier years of his life. The fact that his father still cherished him no doubt caused the Warlord’s “real family” great distress.

Will was always a little distant. Despite Alexandria’s great efforts to befriend the man, it had taken years for him to openly enjoy her company. And even then – well. The bastard was keenly aware of noble etiquette and the cruelty of the public in general. Not a single day went by that Alexandria was not reminded by a peer that Will was a bastard, and she shouldn’t spend so much time at his side. These words were often spoken in front of the man, who showed no outward signs of pain over the ordeal. Obviously, they had some effect, though. It wasn’t long before Will expressed concern for Alex’s reputation in the matter.

To justify spending time together, Alex proposed that Will become her training partner. He proved to have a vast knowledge and far greater skill with weaponry compared to the once-spoiled girl. His father had taught him well – it was nearly like getting private lessons from the Warlord himself – and Will displayed an exceptional grace. He seemed less guarded during these encounters; he would drop the use of pointless formalities towards Alexandria Vaelyn and call her Alex or Andi. He was the only person in Enderthal City that she spoke to about her father prior to Lord Vaelyn’s failure becoming general knowledge. Will was also the only person she had ever tried to seduce. She had failed miserably.

Hence, the current awkward uncertainty as Alex awaited a response from her once good friend.

She couldn’t stop herself from re-experiencing that horrible night. It had been less than three weeks ago – Alex had just received word about her father’s public disgrace. Naturally, she went to Will. They scarcely had discussed the matter when the 18-year-old threw herself into his arms. He embraced her cautiously – he was aware that physical comfort could be dangerous with this one.

Two years previously, Alex had taken Will unawares with a passionate kiss. The two had several minutes of groping bliss before Will ended it abruptly. He told her that he wouldn’t allow her to destroy her virtue with a bastard. She quickly found that she couldn’t say anything to change his mind in the matter. The following day, both pretended that nothing happened and their friendship remained intact.

Alex wondered if that solution would hold for her more recent attempt. Will scarcely held her for a minute before the girl took his lips with hers. He immediately pulled away and gave Alex a look that read you should know better. Alex thought she had the perfect answer.

“I’m already disgraced, Will,” she reminded him.

“Not directly,” he countered. “Your father—“

“Are you joking? I have no holdings. I can’t even vote.”

“You doubt your ability to restore honor to your name?”

Alex stared at her friend for several moments. She couldn’t believe that he was rejecting her again – and attacking her pride in the process. When she failed to come up with a response, Will continued. “I understand that you’re well liked by some military officers. Enough so, that your father’s disgrace was over looked long enough for you to complete your education at the academy. You know that non-taxpaying Lord’s don’t receive free educations for their offspring, don’t you?”

The woman lifted a hand to her temple. “For fuck’s sake, Will.” She immediately knew that he had something to do with that – no doubt his father had a sway in such matters.

“Don’t take it for granted,” Will spoke as he placed his hands on her shoulders. He turned her towards the door and insistently walked her in that direction. “And get some sleep. You’re obviously distressed.”

Alex turned when they reached the door. “Will, I lo—“

The man interjected. “No. You’re obviously distressed. Good night, Lady Vaelyn.”

She watched him as he opened the door and motioned for her to leave. “…Good night, Will.”

Alex left Enderthal City for Sunvale the following day. As she just returned from said trip, this was the first time she had seen Will since that night. She awaited his response to her return with only a marginal amount of anxiety.

 

[Maka]

Will could have afforded better than the Emerald Dragon. He was not wealthy but he had saved his wages from Guard duty and tutoring at the Academy, having nothing to spend them on. But he showed no interest in doing so. While still a child, Will had accompanied his father on campaign several times. He was accustomed to bedding down on frozen, rocky ground or wet, marshy swampland, on falling asleep to the sound of clashing metal and being awoken with a kick for his watch a few hours later. The incessant raucous noise of the Emerald Dragon and its hard, lumpy beds were relatively luxurious. It was in a dangerous area of Enderthal City, but the local thugs and thieves gave Will a wide berth. Most just needed to give the dark-haired, lean, tall and silent young man with his hard brown eyes and toned, muscular swordsman’s body a single glance to know better than to intrude on his isolation. They left him to read at his table at the back of the common room and, though he never troubled to lock the door of his upper floor room, his small handful of possessions was never touched.

And an undeniable advantage of the Emerald Dragon was that no noble would ever dream of coming there.

“Hey, Will.”

There were moments –a particular taste or smell or image, that could send the mind flying back through the years. Will looked up, took in the beautiful young woman seating herself at the table. There was an uncertainty in her wide, lovely blue eyes, a certain vulnerability and anxiety. And Will found himself back five years, in the Academy, with the same girl at his heels everywhere.

And she had been everywhere he went –the training yards, the archery butts, the library and the buttery. He had maintained a cool, distant politeness –sooner or later somebody would explain his parentage to her and she would be gone. And somebody must have done so, but it seemed to have no effect. Finally, Will himself had decided to take her aside, as they walked through the Academy’s rose-gardens, to explain some truths to her.

A close association with a bastard would not be good for her or her family. In particular, a friendship with the Warlord’s bastard could be disastrous for her family’s future prospects. The Warlord’s wife hated him, hated him for the public symbol of her husband’s infidelity that he was, and her family was influential at court. She was capable of ruining the family of any friend of his out of spite. Alex listened and nodded and didn’t say anything and he’d thought, with an odd stab of regret, that he’d finally persuaded her.

And then the next day, the Captain had informed him that one Lady Alexandria Vaelyn had formally requested as a private training partner. Will rarely smiled, but he’d had to give a secret grin at the sheer underhanded cunning of her ploy.

And so they’d trained together. Will excelled at swordsmanship. His father had often told him, when he was young, that his role was to be the blade in the Warlord’s hands, a weapon he would keep by him and entrust to his successors. As he’d grown up, Will had come to find an unparalleled freedom in practise with the blade. Outside the training ring, the world was ruled by sneering bullies, other children who hated him and mocked him because of how he had been born. But inside the ring, they had to come at him as an equal –and they’d fallen, every one of them. He’d been the best swordsman in his class at the Academy, making him one of the best in the world.

And he’d never had a regular sparring partner before, let alone one who learned and adapted as quickly as Alex. He found himself gradually forgetting the formalities, letting the armour of distant, cool politeness slip away piece by piece. She’d talked to him, told him about her family and her life and he’d let her a little of the way into his own private, solitary and mysterious life. She had been the first and only other person he’d ever allowed into his room at the Emerald Dragon, to see the small and neatly-kept room with its shelf of books and the sheathed sword (a present from his father, never drawn) leaning against the wall. He told her a little about the other side to his life –the councils of war in the early hours of the morning, the long hours spent waiting arms folded at his father’s back, nothing more or less than a symbol of potential violence, while the Warlord negotiated with foreign ambassadors or enemies at court.

And he had almost forgotten everything that separated them when she’d kissed him and he had, for a moment, kissed her back, kissed her passionately and hungrily before pushing her away and reminding her of what was at stake for her.

And then, three weeks ago, her father’s disgrace. She had come to his room upstairs Will had barely had time to register the warm body in his arms, the firm breasts pressed against his chest, before she was kissing him. This time, he pushed her to arm’s length immediately, shaking his head slightly.

Will had been as close to anger as he had been since childhood. Alex had talked to him about her father –and he had talked to his father. She had been able to complete her education at the Academy as a result, achieving first-class results. Lord Vaelyn was worthless –perhaps he hadn’t always been that way, but he was now. But his daughter had the grit, the talent and the steel to climb back up to the heights he’d abandoned. She could make a great house out of House Vaelyn again. She could become a general if she had a mind, or she could go to court after a term in the Guards, become a power-broker at the heart of the kingdom. She had every opportunity, and she seemed desperate to fling it all away. He wasn’t going to let her.

All of these bittersweet memories flooded through Will’s mind at once. He rose to his feet, scraping back the chair, and bowed.

“I beg your pardon, Lady Vaelyn. I didn’t see you enter.”

 

[Lady_Gamer]

Alexandria gave the slightest cringe in reaction to the sound of chair legs scraping across the floor. It was not for the unpleasantness of the noise itself – but for the realization that Will was climbing to his feet. She nearly worried that he would simply up and walk away; surely, she should have known better of him. Despite the young woman’s insistence that he speak to her as an equal, she was almost always forced to watch him perform as if the entire world were watching them. Her eyes followed his face as his figure rose from its former position. He bowed before her and Alex had to resist the urge reiterate that she loathed his use of formalities; instead, she merely let it wound her and responded in kind.

“Please, Will, have a seat.” She motioned with a hand out of habit – one of many small gestures she had picked up from associating with actual Ladies. Although Alex had never considered herself as such, she at least understood that a certain level of poise was expected of her. She thought such an indication of her hand was completely unnecessary – as Will was no doubt aware of the location of his chair – but performed the gesture anyway.

She watched him for any sign of hesitation. Alex had reason to believe that he didn’t desire her company and she couldn’t blame him for it. Still, the young woman had no intention of leaving him alone entirely. Will deserved better than that.

After he seated himself, Alex allowed several moments of silence to pass as she studied his expression. She couldn’t read him nearly as well as he could her – she suddenly focused on her posture and tried to mask the heart on her sleeve. She found a small distraction in the key that was still in hand. She glanced at it briefly before slipping it in a pocket near her sword belt. The intricately designed scabbard and protruding hilt that hung from the belt were the only accessories that would tell of her high birth; she certainly didn’t travel in her finest silks and jewelry. She had, of course, found a water source to clean herself before entering Enderthal City but she made little effort towards her appearance otherwise. Under her cloak was simple cloth and light leather armor fit for prolonged riding.

She shifted her attention back to Will. It killed her to gaze upon him – what was once simple attraction to his handsome features was now beyond hopeless. It certainly was a pity that she felt an ache within her chest whenever she thought of him. She couldn’t have him, even though she was more than willing to disgrace herself with a bastard. It was only for his sake that she was resisting the urge to tell him as much again. She could only suspect that the situation was at least as painful for him as it was her and there was no reason for her to increase their torment in the matter.

“It’s good to see you,” she spoke sincerely, a soft smile overtaking her lips. “Is all well?”

In her week of traveling back to Enderthal City, the young woman had all sorts of conversations in her mind. None of them began with the idle pleasantries she now heard herself speaking. A look into Will's beautiful brown eyes reminded her that one of the envisioned scenarios had involved Alex publicly disgracing herself by talking as if the two had already lain together – but his gaze was a sharp reminder that the man was likely not to play along. Beyond that, she feared risking a loss of respect from him more so than she feared losing the respect of her King. She would simply have to suffer her affections...as Will would say, fairness didn't exist in their realm.

 

[Maka]

Will sat down again at Alex's gesture, his face not leaving the young noblewoman's lovely face. He seemed completely at ease, his face as impassive as ever. One quick glance took in Alex's attire.

The hilt of her sword was inlaid in gold and silver with the heraldic symbols of House Vaelyn. A scholar would have been able to tell much about the long and proud history of the house from the details rendered in perfect miniature along the pommel and the guard. Other than, she wore simple boiled leather armour, of the type worn by the horse scouts of the outer provinces, and practical travelling clothes.

Alex's clothing might not have borne a second glance, but the sword would have been equal interest to a merchant, a weapon smith and a historian. And even it could not have compared with the attention that its owner's exquisitely lovely face, toned and slender body, sparkling blue eyes and waves of soft golden hair recieved from males of all stations. In the Academy, Alex's interest in Will had not been resented by the young noble students on account of snobbery. Plenty of the hotblooded young men had been burning for a chance to seduce the Vaelyn heiress, to explore the possibilities of that lust-inducing body for themselves, and hated the fact that she seemed to spend all of her free time with the Warlord's by-blow.

“It’s good to see you,” Alex said, smiling softly. “Is all well?”

Will nodded.

"Same as ever. There's been talk of trouble in the south again. The Guards might be riding down there before the end of the season."

His answer didn't include any personal details because, besides the small and sparsely-furnished room upstairs, the closest thing to a personal life Will had ever known revolved around the girl sitting opposite him.

"And yourself, my lady? How is your noble father? Are you intending to stay in the Emerald Dragon? I'm not sure that's wise."

Alex's sword and her body would be equal sources of temptation for some of the Dragon's less savoury regulars. Will could make it understood that she was under his protection -but then he would have to face his own set of temptations with her so close every night.

 

[Lady_Gamer]

Alex watched her friend as he responded to her inquiry. She soon found herself repressing her initial reaction to the news of trouble in the south - she knew she shouldn't be glad to hear that the Guards may be finding themselves on a campaign. It wasn't that she was anxious to spill blood, or that she had any ill will towards the south in general; it had more to do with Alex's personal opportunity in such matters. She wished only to show her superiors that she was deserving of the honor her house had once held.

"I see," she responded simply. Her eyes continued to hold Will's form and she couldn't help but realize that it was only because of him that she had such ambitions - let alone the skill - to thrive in a military setting. Surely, without his influences on her, she would be less so suited than she was now.

Alex had gained the desire to swing a sword all on her own, that much was true. Her instructors hadn't failed her entirely - but it was Will who hypothetically could have killed her at least a hundred times. Those lessons were much better met in training than in the field. Thanks to Will, the girl had practiced until the sword in her hand reacted without her expressed consideration - the motions were burned into mind and she knew how to meet an opponent's attack the moment they lifted their weapon against her. It was with a bit of a sting that Alex reminded herself that any courage she showed on the field would be little more than reckless disregard for her own life. She couldn't place that on Will. It wasn't his fault that she was so madly in love that she couldn't imagine a future without him. If she was forced to take the path of honor, she would do so marvelously. Whether she would succeed or die was of little concern.

"And yourself, my lady? How is your noble father? Are you intending to stay in the Emerald Dragon? I'm not sure that's wise."

Alex smiled as she motioned for the tavern wench. The young peasant girl nodded from across the room and served mugs of ale from her tray before heading in their direction.

In the meantime, Alex returned her gaze to Will. "I'm doing splendid, thank you. Lord Vaelyn, I would imagine, is less so. I'm not certain where he intends to keep himself. Which is not to say that I didn't ask. The man is hopeless."

The wench approached. Her green eyes fell on the sword at Alex's hip and she immediately looked mortified. No doubt she didn't happen upon nobles at the Emerald Dragon and she was uncertain if she had already caused offense. She gave an awkward bow and started to mutter apologies about not seeing to the Lady's needs sooner.

Alex held up an open hand. "Do not trouble yourself so much. I simply desire a glass of wine and something to chew. Do you recommend anything from the menu?"

The girl considered for several moments before responding. "I...I enjoy the lamb, myself."

"That will do, then."

"I don't believe we carry wine fit for..." her eyes fell on Alex's sword once again.

"Anything red."

The girl simply nodded.

Alex glanced towards Will. "Surely, you will dine with me this evening?"

She would give the man the opportunity to order or decline. After such time, the peasant girl would hurry off to fetch drinks and the like.

Alex wasn't surprised that Will had taken note of her short distraction with the key earlier. He was the most observant person she knew - the man never rested. Will was the type that could enter an establishment and know how many people were present, how many were armed, and identify all the exits in the time it took another to take an inhalation of breath.

"Yes, I intend to stay at the Emerald Dragon," she finally answered. "And I disagree with you entirely. This is the safest place in the world - you don't even lock your door." She gave him a playful grin. "Besides, I have no doubt that were something to happen, the walls must be thin enough that you would hear me scream."

Whereas it had been anyone else voicing concern over her safety, she would have replied with a haughty tone that she was well capable of taking care of herself. She liked the idea of Will being her knight in rags too much to pass up openly musing about it, though. Besides, she reveled in causing a reaction in the usually serious and hard bastard - and she waited to see if he would accept her joke with a smile or if the spoken scenario would cause him distress.

 

[Maka]

Will rarely smiled, but the flicker of a half-smile tugged at his lips as he listened to Alex's reply.

"Perhaps so, my lady. But if you use that sword as you did during the melee against the Royal Cadet Corps, the screams might be the intruder's. Of course I'd be pleased to dine with you."

Already he was starting to relax a little more. In due course, their meal arrived -a jar of indifferent Koman red and a rack of heavily spiced and seasoned lamb. Alex had done well to order what the staff had. The food in the Emerald Dragon sometimes had dubious origins. Will took his belt knife out and carved off a slice for Alex.

"It's only temporary, though?"

He looked up at her, his brown eyes cool and remote once again.

"Your staying here, I mean. I know that Sir Alun is leaving his townhouse, down by the river, for the hunting season. Once you're settled in the Guards, you could probably rent it from him."

The thought was both painful and welcome. Once Alex left, she'd remove the sweet, hot temptation that their close quarters would provide -but also the only companionship he'd ever desired. Still, they'd still be serving in the Guards together -that would be companionship (and temptation) enough.

 

[Lady_Gamer]

The young woman considered herself lucky to elicit even half a smile from Will - his response towards her imagined dilemma was nothing short of full confidence in her ability to care for herself, which was expected. She had no doubt that the man would come to her aid, should it be necessary, but he certainly didn't play in to her subtle indications that she needed him.

When their meal and drink arrived, Alex helped herself to the wine. She took a long drink without sampling the fragrance or color. As she lowered the glass from her lips, she considered her suddenly serious companion. He asked if her lodging plans were temporary and even made a recommendation of an alternate place to rent.

"I'm not too terribly concerned," she responded as she armed herself with utensils. "I will no doubt find a suitable arrangement soon enough."

She took a bite of lamb and was not at all offended by the taste - she allowed her dish to distract her eye for several moments before glancing back up at Will. "I doubt my staying here will be noticed," she added before taking another bite. "Though, for your sake, I will try to find alternate lodgings."

Alex took a sip of her wine and reminded herself to take it easy on the drink. It was not an established habit of hers; consequently, she had no tolerance to the substance. She feared any additional boldness would result in a similar injury to that of three weeks previously. It was too bad she was above encouraging Will to drink so she could take advantage of him.

 

[Maka]

Will rarely drank to excess. It would be all too easy. Outside the bounds of normal social conventions as he was, nobody would be shocked or surprised to see the Warlord's bastard drunk and wine filled, for a while, the aching emptiness inside. But once he began drinking, he knew he might never stop. Bastard or no, he still had responsibilities and obligations -to the king, to his father, to the Guards -and to the young lady sitting opposite him. Her most of all.

"It's no imposition at all to have you stay here, my lady. It's good to see you again."

That mild remark only touched the surface of Will's feelings, and even so was more than he normally disclosed of himself.

"But", he continued firmly, "You will need more suitable lodgings in time. When your house begins to rise again, and men come to serve under your banner -will you quarter them in the Emerald Dragon? When you marry, will your bridal bed be upstairs?"

Will's tone was as even and uninflected as ever when he spoke of Alex's marriage. Nobody would have guess the stab of pain that ran through him as he brought it up. But prominent nobles had to marry, sooner or later, and Alex would be a prominent noble once again, if he had to drag her up the court hierarchy by the collar.

Alex's eyes had widened.

"I'm sorry. You've just got here. We can talk about all this later, Alex."

I mean 'my lady'. Don't I?

 

[Lady_Gamer]

Alex allowed her expression to convey surprise that Will would be bringing up the subject of marriage, rather than show how desirable a bridal bed here would be. She listened as the man recovered from that venue of conversation and smiled when he called her by her shortened name.

"We could just not talk about it," she offered. It was easier to let Will pretend that she would eventually accept her role as a Lady - marry, bear children, all of that. But Alex knew her heart did not desire such a life; she had no intention of becoming a household accessory. Besides, any conversation along this path would lead to the admission that Alex had already turned down a sound offer. It was a gracious extension from another noble family which would have allowed her father to save face - they would have settled his debt and taken Alex in at what she saw as a great disadvantage to herself. Marry their eldest and owe their bloodline. Alex wouldn't do it. Her father's inability to make her further showed that the man had truly lost his previous merits.

"Though, for the record - what you're speaking of sounds like personal holdings rather than a place to rent. I'm just a Guard with a pity title at this point... it may be awhile before I'm that comfortable. But yes - back to the original question - the Emerald Dragon is only temporary. I'm considering taking a reasonable offer from a friend to rent a room within her house in the Royal District." She paused for a moment before continuing. "To be honest, I'm only here because it seemed like a good excuse to spend time with you. No one knows of my return. After I report to the Captain...well. I imagine at that point I'll have to make an effort in the public eye."

Which likely wouldn't prevent her from visiting the Emerald Dragon - it certainly hadn't before. But it seemed like handing kindling to those that already spoke ill of her to actually house herself in the establishment.

 

[Maka]

Will nodded, allowing a small half-smile at Alex's remark about her presence in the Emerald Dragon being partly an excuse to spend time with him.

"Well, if that's the case, perhaps we should make the most of tonight."

After she reported to the Captain tomorrow, he would back off and allow her to start rebuilding the contacts that she would need in the days to come. But for just one night, there could be little harm in indulging themselves in the long-denied company of the other... within certain limits, of course.

"I could get us tickets to the theatre. And perhaps afterwards we could go to the Gardens of Reflection."

That was where they had spent a great deal of time of Alex's senior year. It was a quiet place with a melancholy beauty, built to honour the soldiers and civilians killed in the first great war.

 

[Lady_Gamer]

"That sounds lovely," Alex smiled and watched her friend for a moment before continuing. "I'm nearly finished eating and I should only require a few minutes to change before we set out."

It would seem that the Lady had only a small pack with her, not likely to contain fine clothing. There were plenty of theaters in Enderthal City, though, and only the grand stage on the hill had dress requirements of it's audience. The wish to change clothing was merely a consideration of comfort. Armor - whether boiled leather or plated metal - was typically unnecessary and highly unpleasant when worn to crowded entertainment venues.

The young woman finished her food and drink. Afterwards, she excused herself and headed for the stairwell with satchel on-arm. She was absent perhaps three minutes before reappearing.

Alex was wearing a simple cotton dress and sandals. The design of her garment was loose; something mass produced to be suited to a variety of body types. The material draped from Alex's ample breasts and hung over a belt at her waist - the skirt reached just to her knees. It was remarkably ill suited to her and yet - well. The thin material could do little to conceal the curves of Alex's body despite it's modest cut.

She approached Will and offered him her hand.

 

[Maka]

Alex turned many heads as she returned to the common room, and little wonder. Her simple white dress clung snugly to her large, perky breasts and its skirt gave tantalising flashes of her toned legs. Despite all the temptations of her body, it was still her delicate face, her flashing blue eyes and her sunkissed golden hair that drew the male eye.

Will stood and looked about him. He was as expressionless as ever, but wherever he looked, the men turned their admiring gaze from Alex and returned it to their ale-mugs. It was understood that the new arrival to the Emerald Dragon was under his protection, as mouthwatering a morsel as she might be.

He gravely offered Alex his arm as she approached and extended her hand.

"I thought we could go to the Cloisters."

The Cloisters had been part of a monastery once, although the order it had housed were long since disbanded. The acoustic properties of the old cloisters were unique, and so theatre troupes often used it as a stage.

"Mateos de'Senam has written a new play, Lanzian"

Will attended the theatre regularly. That, and concerts, were among his few indulgences.

 

[Lady_Gamer]

Alex smiled broadly as she passed a hand around Will's offered arm. She wrapped around the appendage, bringing her body in close to his as he spoke.

"I trust your judgement in such matters," she remarked. "You're more cultured than I am when it comes to the art of the stage." It was true. Alex reflected briefly on Will's merits - it served as little else but a reminder that no other man would meet the precise standards she had set because of the warlord's son. Granted, he had little choice but to watch himself constantly - any misstep would no doubt be used by his father's wife to further disgrace the skilled swordsman.

The young woman would allow Will to lead her out of the Emerald Dragon and into the darkened streets of Enderthal City. Her grip on his arm became two-handed and she lightly leaned her head against his shoulder as they walked towards the Cloisters. She was suddenly grateful for the simple privilege of exotic soaps and perfume; she knowingly scented herself whenever she intended to be around Will. She doubted he noticed it all the time, as their interactions rarely allowed for close contact such as this...but a small part of her hoped that she owned smell of sandalwood and violet in his mind.

She remained quiet for some time, lost in her own thoughts. When they were perhaps half way through their journey, Alex lifted her head from the man's shoulder. Her sapphire gaze fell upon Will's dark eyes and she smiled softly.

"Thank you," she spoke suddenly. Will's brows moved just enough to indicate that he wasn't sure what had inspired those words to materialize. "For everything."

The woman had to tear her eyes away. She turned her attention ahead, watching the ground as it moved beneath their feet. "And...for tonight," she added. "There is nothing in the world I would rather do." She may have tightened her grip on him slightly for a short moment.

She lifted her gaze - she could see their venue in the distance.

 

[Maka]

Alex had drawn very close to him, wrapping both of her small hands around his arm. He could feel her heart beating very close to his and smell her clean, pure scent. It was a vivid reminder of the night he tried not to think about, the night when she'd fallen into his arms and he'd used all of his self-control to reject her.

Alex's blonde head was resting gently on Will's shoulder. It felt good and right there. Unarmed, dressed in their civilian clothes, they could have been any young couple out for a pleasant night on the town. The thought was bittersweet. If only they could be just a young couple, farmers or traders, with only everyday responsibilities and duties. Will let himself pretend for a moment that it was so. He imagined himself lifting up her chin with his fingertips, letting himself finally drown in those deep blue eyes, and oh so slowly bringing his lips down to hers.

As though in response to the thought, Alex lifted her head from his shoulder and her steady gaze met Will's own.

"Thank you," she said softly. Will's eyebrow flickered. "For everything. And...for tonight," she added. "There is nothing in the world I would rather do."

"There's nobody in the world I'd rather spend the evening with, Alex" Will said gravely.

The Cloisters came into view. The troupe's performers were taking tickets themselves at the gate. Mateos de'Senam's troupe could not afford doormen.

"Will!"

A young, pale and flame-haired actress, already dressed in her costume of a black half-mask and ball-gown, hurried over to them.

"Will darling! It's good to see you! Don't be silly, Will, you don't need to buy a ticket. Gods know you're the only man in town whose opinion Daddy values... And who is this ravishing creature on your arm? Will! Has your stony heart finally melted?"

She leant in close to Alex to whisper confidentially: "Young Areta, who plays Rosalind, has set her cap at Will. She'll be mightily displeased. Watch out for her at the interval!"

"This is my friend, Lady Alexandria Vaelyn," Will said, imperturbable. "Lady Vaelyn, this is Mistress Sashia de'Senam, daughter of the playwright."

 

[Lady_Gamer]

The lady listened to Will's reply with mixed feelings. On one hand, she happily soaked in his words - "There's no one else in the world I'd rather spend the evening with, Alex." On the other hand, she somberly noted that his tone was as cold and serious as it had ever been. It was not lost on her that the bittersweet moment was essentially the story of her life, in regard to love interests. Which was to say, in regard to Will.

Alex observed the female with the fiery hair as she approached, listening as she spoke. After speaking to will, the woman turned her attention to his female companion; Alex allowed herself to be flattered and pleased by the actress's words. In particular, the question concerning Will's stony heart caught Alex's interest - the half-masked woman continued to tell of some Areta, who apparently had not been able to melt the aforementioned stone. The noble found some pleasure in the knowledge that Will had denied the affections of some other woman besides herself.

Alex couldn't help but feel a little jealous at the thought of someone trying to seduce her Will - as wrong as she knew it was - but she didn't really feel threatened. She could always console herself, should this Areta ever win out on her, that it was the circumstances of her birth and his that ruined their chances together. She had no doubt that the man had some love for her... She had to push that line of thought out of her mind before she let it consume her.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mistress Sashia de'Senam," Alex spoke with a deep bow. "I've heard wonderful things about your father's works. Sadly, I must admit that I have not seen many of his productions." The noble gave a playful smile before glancing at Will, adding, "I rarely receive invitations from someone deserving of my company."

 

[Maka]

Sashia smiled and laughed.

"Oh, I like her, Will. And not many people have seen Daddy's work -not nearly enough, considering he's a genius, or so he likes to tell us. Repeatedly. He will be along to fuss over Will shortly."

Indeed, a tubby, short man with just a balding tonsure left of the red hair of his daughter was moved towards them. He was dressed in a black and green domino costume, with a cape and mask. The effect of the colourful costume should have been ridiculous, but somehow he managed to make it seem dramatic, intense and intriguing. He had an unmistakable charisma about him. His air was theatrical and swaggering, in total contrast to Will's quiet, impassive stoicism, just as Will's height and sculpted body contasted wiith de'Senam's appearance, and yet the two men seemed alike in some way. Both knew exactly who they were and feared nothing.

"Dear boy! So glad you could come. And who is this?"

"This is Lady Alexandra Vaelyn. She's Will's friend," his daughter said promptly, tipping Alex a wink under her mask.

"Extraordinary!" said de'Senam, looking more closely, "My dear, those features, your poise, that way you have of looking, really looking at a man, none of your coquettish side-glances or demurely-lowered eyelids... such a shame stupid social conventions wouldn't allow a noble to act. You'd have your fortune made."

"Lady Vaelyn plans to make -or reclaim, her fortune her own way," Will said. "In the Guards."

He shot an unreadable but meaningful glance at Alex.

"Swords, horses, all that saluting and getting up early and what not? Can't imagine anything duller."

"You can't imagine anything outside the theatre, Daddy," said Sashia affectionately.

"True. But there I imagine gods and demons, heroes and monsters, love rewarded and love unrequited, bright visions and dark depths.... come! Come, my dears! We'll give you the best seats in the house, and you'll see what I've imagined this time."

As they passed through the Cloisters entrance, Alex noticed another of the actresses taking tickets, a darkhaired girl in a purple and white harlequin costume, glaring sullenly at her. Her gaze shifted to Will, became wide-eyed and dreamy, and it became clear that this must be Areta.

 

[Lady_Gamer]

The playwright had an energy about him that Alex couldn't identify but she recognized its effect immediately. She supposed that sort of quality was important for such an industry as theater - you made you living on whether or not people liked you, after all. And while she doubted her own ability to act (she hadn't a formal lesson in her life and she dared not to assume she'd be a natural), she allowed herself a small smile as she considered such a thing as a back up plan. Disgraced nobles could do whatever they pleased for a living... And who wanted the troubles of being involved in the court, anyway?

Alex didn't voice any of these thoughts, of course. Instead, she listened as Will informed the man of her righteous plan of restoring the Vaelyn name. Mateos de'Senam's reply to this was fair - being a Guard wasn't exactly glamorous. The lady continued to listen as the group spoke with a friendly countenance and genuine interest. And how could she not be interested as the playwright described the fantastic scenes he witnessed in his mind? Alex could only wish that she had such an imagination! She certainly lived in her mind enough...but she seemed to direct her energy of thought towards the things that pained her the most rather than turn to escapism fantasy. Alex made a quick note to herself that such a thing might help.

The young noble soon found herself being ushered along to what was promised to be the best seats in the house. She had not missed the dark haired girl taking tickets or the look she had received from her - Alex forced a small smile as if she had no reason to dislike the other woman. The look that this assumed Atera gave Will caused Alex to look away. You can't let it upset you, Alex. Eventually, he's going to find someone that isn't you...and you're going to deal with it rather than ruin his happiness.

Thankfully, Alex had a great distraction so as not to lose herself to such thoughts. "Mateos de'Senam," she began, allowing her gaze to settle on the man that led them to their seats. "I thank you for your hospitality. Might I ask if you have considered entering one of your productions in the summer festival? I understand it pays next to nothing but would count for good exposure, I'd think." The summer festival was a three day affair in which people all over Enderthal - but particularly in Enderthal City - celebrated the goodness of life through indulgences. Entertainers flooded the streets in the form of random jester-types to organized full productions on a centralized stage in the Square of the city. Despite the meager pay the treasury of the King offered for the job, it was quite coveted. Festivities were only a month away at this point. "You might be surprised to know that Lady Arianna has yet to finalize the set list for the Square."

Alex wouldn't promise to give a favorable word just yet - she had not seen his work - but she certainly was subtly hinting that she thought her opinion might make some difference to the director of events. Alex liked to think that she wasn't flaunting the fact so much as trying to be helpful. She happened to know that Lady Arianna was growing tired of the theater companies that held the contract for the last ten consecutive years; it was nearly a tradition at this point. Assuming Mateos de'Senam knew this, the information that the set list wasn't finalized gave a huge indication with few words.

 

[Maka]

"I... that would be... my dear lady!"

De'Senam was for once at a loss for words but his beaming smile said it all.

"Sashia! We must apply to the festival posthaste! What should we put on? Strange Tale of Camonis? The Mirror Tragedy?"

As they walked, he spoke excitedly to his daughter, who replied with a few soothing, well-placed words. There was a grateful smile on her face, though, as she looked at Alex.

Will was pleased. If Alex liked the play, and he thought she would, his friends in the troupe would benefit considerably. He'd thought for a long time that Mateos' talent deserved a wider audience. Once Alex was on the road to reclaiming her fortunes, she might be able to sponsor them herself.

The Cloisters were surrounded by a beautiful set of gardens. De'Senam gestured for them to sit in the front row of the temporary seats that had been laid out just inside the monastic building, and then hurried away.

Will's good mood evaporated as a pair of nobles came up behind them.

"Alexandria? It is you."

They were Lord Rohar Caeorou and Lord Kael Laxor. They had trained at the Academy alongside Will and Alex, and been among those who sneered the most at Will for his birth. Will's presence at the Academy had been particularly irritating to Rohar because that lordling had pursued Alex for all of her time at the college.

Rohar was good-looking, in a sullen and pouting way, with his soft dark ringlets and little, pointed beard. He was not ungifted with the sword, though not on Will's level (nor, to Rohar's disgust, Alex's) but he had detested the early mornings, discipline and hard word of Academy life. It was unsurprising to see him at the theatre -Rohar also liked to affect a cultured man's interest in the arts, though Will considered his understanding of real art shallow, and his attempts at commentary banal and conventional to the point of triteness.

His inseparable friend, Kael, was a big, blond brawler -very fond of drink, gambling and coarse humour and with very few original thoughts in his head. Kael was very, very rich; his father being one of the wealthiest and most influential men in the country and Will suspected that his money was the basis of his appeal for Rohar.

"Good evening, my lord," Will said, standing.

Rohar ignored him, his eyes dwelling greedily on Alex's generous breasts.

"Alex. I had no idea you were back in the city. Where are you staying? Miara is throwing a party tomorrow night. I think it will be most amusing. Won't you come?"

 

[Lady_Gamer]

Alexandria's sapphire eyes settled on one of the nearby gardens, her gaze drawn to an arrangement of alstroemaerias. They were the color of the midday sky with smatterings of purple accents dashed along inside of the petals . The lighting did not allow for the woman to appreciate the subtle details of their beauty directly but her mind supplemented the image with memories of such things.

The woman would hate to guess how many hours she had spent in her life, staring at a single alstroemaeria. Their colorations varied greatly; most gardeners of the Noble District seemed to prefer the warmer spectrum of the species to the somber beauty she now beheld. And while Alex had often admired the gardens of her peers, she had only done so in passing. She acquired her own flower, often from downtown, always in singularity, and placed it in a thin vase that sat on her vanity. Given the limited space of her former dormitory lifestyle, she could study the beauty from most positions within her room. It had almost become a meditative practice.

It was hardly surprising, then, when the woman suffered a momentary flashback. The first alstroemaeria, she thought briefly before visualizing a scene of some length in the matter of mere seconds.

*****​

Alex had tested the boundaries of her relationship with Will shortly after beginning her training with him. She had thought herself subtle but had no reason to doubt that he saw right through to her intentions. Their second session had been followed by a request that he accompany her to the market, which would entail of a considerable walk across some districts. Alex knew that he couldn't refuse her - and given that it was nearly dark, she knew that he would feel compelled to escort her to her lodgings afterwards. Compelled. The word invoked a deep, unsettling fear.

Their conversation had been fairly one-sided. Will gave the woman no reason to believe that she was doing anything more than imposing her company on him - he was pleasant towards her but it was with such a formality that it could hardly be called friendly. Once they reached the market, she wasted little time in collecting a basket of random produce; the woman maintained a private stock of fruit and vegetables so as to avoid communal eating more than once a day. The transaction was swift and the two were heading back towards the academy when they came upon a street vendor selling flowers. The man barely saw them before suggesting that Will should purchase a favor for his love.

Alex smiled stupidly and took on a slight flush. As much as she might be interested in Will's response, she spared him by way of a short rush of panic of what sort of refusal he might utter. She inspected the offered flower in the man's hand - an alstroemaeria, white with bright red bursting from the center. She responded immediately, "That's gorgeous!" She rifled for coin from her pocket as she asked the merchant what type of flower it was. He was happy to inform her and the two exchanged goods and formalities before parting. The woman's first few steps away from the vendor included a deep inhalation from the recent purchase. She made idle conversation about how beautiful the alstroemaeria was - she used the name a few times to cement the identification - and even went so far as to muse about where she would put it in her quarters. After several minutes of peaceful walking, the woman dared to press.

"I think that merchant is on to something, Will," she started with a teasing grin. "I'm going to consider this as gift from you."

He gave her a look with a raised brow. His words indicated that he hadn't paid for the token and could hardly be given credit for a transaction in which he had no involvement.

"Ah! But I have passed that vendor countless times, and not once has he called out for my attention. Were you not with me, I would have no doubt passed uneventfully. It is only by the pleasure of your company that I came upon such a beautiful token." She paused briefly before venturing, "Besides, I'm very fond of the idea."

The following silence killed her. Alex tried to focus on her footfalls as she avoided looking at Will directly. After what seemed an eternity (but was, in reality, a short pause), she continued with a forced humor. "Can you imagine Rohar's reaction?" She dared to look over at her companion.

That didn't go over so well. Apparently, Will didn't share in Alex's perspective. He wasn't interested in what the woman considered a justice to his character - he expressed that he thought it a very stupid idea. Her disgrace would hardly be worth whatever humiliation it would cause Rohar.

"I'm not out to spite anyone, Will," she spoke softly in response. "And, for the record...I would be honored in such circumstances."

He made a remark about her lack of refinement, essentially calling her a hillbilly. Alex laughed and admitted that she might not understand the system as well as he did and redirected the conversation before making any more of a fool of herself.

*****​

Ever since, Alex developed a habit of buying herself a single flower on a weekly basis. In the off-season, she would pay a considerable amount to the keeper of a greenhouse for such treasures. It was trivial. Wasteful, even. Still, Alex allowed herself the indulgence - at the very least, it brought her brief joy every morning.

Her thoughts on the matter were suddenly interrupted. At the sound of a familiar voice, the woman turned to face Rohar and Kael. She remained seated and watched the two with a neutral expression. "Greetings." The placement of Rohar's eyes from his advantageous position did not go unnoticed. As he spoke, he slowly - even reluctantly - lifted his gaze. It was truly a shame that Alex found the man's personality to be so unbearable; he was obvious with his interest and he certainly wasn't unattractive.

"I'm staying at the Emerald Dragon," she responded with a smile. She had considered telling the man that it was none of his business where she was lodging (she was often abrupt with Rohar, which didn't seem to dissuade him too much), but she thought it more entertaining to go this route. She had no reason to hide the fact and she nearly hoped the information would cast her in a questionable enough light that Rohar would think less of her - she certainly wouldn't mind if he suddenly thought of the woman as beneath his standards. "I've yet to draw my shift, so I can't promise that I will be able to attend the party." She had no doubt that the man had heard of her recent personal circumstances - she didn't feel the need to remind him that she actually depended on a paycheck now.

Alex was aware that such social events were "important" for her image, but she was already considering a petition for an evening shift from the captain. It would give her an excuse not to attend without looking like she was trying to outcast herself from her former peers. "It is a formal affair?" she asked with feigned interest.

 

[Maka]

"Your shift?" Rohar said. "How delightful! Do come in your uniform; Miara won't mind at all and you'll be the talk of the party. Lady Vaelyn, our brave protector."

"Is it tight? The uniform?" Kael put in abruptly, with his characteristic hoggish snort. His glance up and down Alex's well-formed, toned body left no doubt as to his thoughts. Even Rohar gave a sigh of distaste. Will's fingers were itching for a sword, but he let none of it show on his impassive face.

"So... you're staying at the Emerald Dragon?" Rohar continued. "I understand that's a... public house, of ill repute. Do you need a place to stay? I would be more than happy to offer you a room in my townhouse."

And Will had little doubt that the 'offer' would also include a place in his bed. De'Senam had now taken the stage and the two lordlings sat down behind them.


Lanzian was a complex, brilliant and beautiful play, all of it set over three hours at a foreign court where a masque was being held at which the king had ordered that all be totally anonymous for one night. One character, the mad Count Melisare, had sworn to kill the king over an old grudge, but found himself faced with a sea of masked, anonymous revellers. In one comic subplot, two lovers, one of them played by Areta, had decided to give themselves to each other on that night but kept coming disastrously near to bedding strangers because of the masks.

Events came to a head when Melisare finally located the king in a crowd of people and launched his attack. Most screamed and fled in all directions but Melisare's target, a tall man of about the height and build of the king, stood his ground and fought and disarmed Melisare. He was then feted and celebrated for the rest of the night.

But the final scene was the unmasking at the end of the night, in which one by one, the players revealed themselves. The penultimate unmasking was that of a man who had been among the most cowardly in fleeing Melisare's attack -it was the king. All eyes then turned to the masked man who had been taken for the king, who, smiling wryly beneath the half-mask, declined to show his face.

"For I am base-born, but tonight I have been a king. A mask may conceal a man's face, but it reveals his true nature. Let this be a consolation to all those born to stations far below their talents."

There was loud and prolonged applause as the actors took their bow, but Rohar was not applauding.

"Damned rebellious rubbish," Will could hear him muttering to Kael. "As though birth won't always tell out."

Kael, who was applauding heartily, simply repeated one of the more lewd jokes from the subplot involving Areta's character, with an appreciative guffaw. The subversive message to the play had sailed entirely over his head.

 

[Lady_Gamer]

The woman failed to appreciate Rohar's suggestion to attend the party in her guard uniform; and, despite his charming tone, Lady Vaelyn took in his words like jabs of a knife. She felt mocked well before Kael contributed - and what he spoke was little compared to the way he hungrily eyed her form. Alex refused to dignify his question with a response; rather, she simply allowed her expression to convey dismay.

Rohar continued to speak. Alex was not surprised by his opinions of the Emerald Dragon - and she shouldn't have been by his offer to stay in his townhome. Still, she was caught off guard. Her response was instant, unrefined by a filtering process.

"I'd be more than happy to decline."

She smiled before turning away from the two lordlings and focused her attention on De'Senam. With the production starting, she did not receive a counter to the rejection she had offered.

It seemed it was plenty easy for forget about Rohar and Kael. The play was enchanting, to say the least - the lady found herself drawn in immediately. And while this was largely a credit to De'Senam, it is necessary to note that his performers were marvelous weavers of illusion. Alex seemed willing to escape the confines of reality, laughing easily and simply enjoying the show. After the grand choreography of the fight scene, the woman dared to assume it would be the highlight of the performance. She had failed to anticipate the final twist.

The wrongly assumed King's words caused a chill to pass through Alex just moments before she felt the sting of welling tears. It would be impossible for her to not think of Will - though it was not for his talents for which he was born beneath, but his worth. It was a fact that was ever-present in her mind, though she had found little choice but to attempt to be only passively aware. Acknowledging the issue directly - well.

The young noble lifted a hand to her cheek, brushing away a tear the very moment it fell upon her cheek. She glanced over at her companion briefly - despite the tightening of her throat, the pain of the void within - she smiled softly.

Alex forced her attention back to the stage and devoted her efforts to showing her support for De'Senam and his crew. She clapped enthusiastically and with a whole heart. As the actors took their final bow, the woman climbed to her feet and continued to applaud their achievements. She heard Rohar's reaction to the play and knew it would be useless to argue his opinion on the matter - he wasn't worth the effort, anyway.

Alex turned to Will and took his hand in hers. "Come - we must pay De'Senam our compliments!" She gave him very little time to respond before gently pulling him along with her. Truth be told, she was eager to leave the company of the condescending lordlings - she had suffered their presence long enough for the evening. She made certain to leave them little opportunity to torment herself or Will any further...for the time being.

She led her companion away from the crowd. The prospect of giving De'Senam her praise from the base of the stage had occurred to her, though it hardly seemed proper. So, instead, she simply moved to circumvent being in the way until such a time as a real conversation could be had. She had no doubt that Will would know the best place to meet with the man. Upon reaching a position off to the side of the Cloisters, the woman turned to face the skilled swordsman.

Alex's face showed only the slightest stain of recent crying. She had managed to get herself under control prior to causing her eyes to take on a shade of red; only the faint trails of her tears remained. As she stared into Will's eyes, she didn't know what to say.

 

[Maka]

They were standing in a little space to the side of the Cloisters, where Will knew that de'Senam liked to come and take the air after performances. They were close together in the little niche, and Will was looming over Alex. he was very aware of her body, firm and soft at the same time, of the fresh clean smell of her close-cropped golden hair. But her lovely, piercing blue eyes were redrimmed, as though she had been crying.

It hurt Will's heart to see his friend in pain. He had long ago adjusted to the realities of the world they lived in. She had not, and perhaps that made her the stronger one. Will realised that this thought had never occured to him before. Perhaps it never would have, without seeing de'Senam's play. No wonder they so often tried to censor him.

And that thought unleashed a whole host of other uncomfortable, disquieting thoughts, as though he'd overturned a nest of vipers that slithered hissing through his mind. He'd had this extraordinary, fragile, indomitable girl in his arms once. He'd enjoyed a kiss from those full, luscious lips and he'd gone no further because he had wanted only the best future for the woman he lived. But if real courage lay in making one's own future...

Will stirred, and moved a little way into the gardens and outside the dangerous halo of Alex's toned body. He didn't ask if she'd enjoyed the play -there was no need to, no need even to discuss it until the emotions it had stirred had cooled down. He saw the banks of alstroemaeria, a glorious yellow tinged with purple here and there. Impulsively, he knelt and plucked one from the ground, then offered it gravely to Alex.

"It's good to have you back."

 

[Lady_Gamer]

As she watched her friend, a familiar void tore at her heart. Their proximity to each other - it made her want to rip out the sutures all over again.

The wound would never fully mend, she knew.

Her sapphire eyes followed Will's form as he moved away. She nearly feared that he knew better than to remain too close to her - and he'd have every justification. But she was surprised to find the man's attention upon the gardens. More so when he knelt to retrieve an alstroemaeria, which he offered in her direction.

Alex had waited for - dreamed of - this exact moment. She lifted a hand to retrieve the flower but paused and allowed her fingers to hover just inches away from Will's hand. Her eyes traveled back up to the man's face as he spoke - his expression assured her that she wasn't dreaming. He wasn't going to follow the gift with a romantic gesture, as he often had in surreality.

Her hand closed around the man's wrist. Gently, she pulled him closer, into the cozy niche. Her other hand took the flower and she allowed her grip on his wrist slip to his palm. "Thank you, Will," she spoke softly. She looked at the beautiful token for only a moment before returning her gaze upwards. There was so much that she wanted to say.

Instead, she chose to close the distance between them. She released his hand and slipped her arms around his shoulders - she lifted herself onto her toes so as to minimize the need to pull the man to her level. Her lips found his without hesitation. She wouldn't push her luck; she'd give him just enough time to either return or show signs of rejecting her kiss before lowering herself back to her heels. Reluctantly, she'd release his form. She knew her chances would be much better out of the public eye -- and she found herself suddenly anxious to give De'Senam her compliments so that they could return to the Emerald Dragon.

 

[Maka]

Will was familiar with the phenomenon of time slowing. In battle, the hot flare of adrenaline could stretch every second into hours, but he had never felt it as he did now. Alex took his hand -he could feel the beat of her pulse, and gazed up at him. Her beautiful, brilliant eyes were alive with happiness. He had brought that joy into them. The thought was alarming, overwhelming.

Alex tentatively reached up, slipping her arms around his shoulders. Will knew he had to react. He had to stop this. Alex could destroy her reputation, her chance of forming a good marriage alliance with one of the major houses. Her talent would be wasted in Guard duties for the rest of her life. He had to stop this.

And yet, for once, he was not in total control. Love was blazing in him. He wanted to do nothing more but grab her around the slender waist and kiss her as thoroughly and passionately as he'd often dreamed. His knuckles clenched.

Before the moment of decision could come, a voice interrupted them.

"Will?"

Will's face was an unreadable blank. He gently set Alex down and turned to greet the playwright.

"Mateos. I enjoyed the play."

 

[Lady_Gamer]

The woman turned to face the man who had, so far as Alex was aware, appeared so suddenly. She gave him a small smile as she disentangled herself from Will - she felt no shame for being seen in such a fashion, though one would hardly continue such affections in the company of others.

Perhaps it was for some assumed understanding between herself and the playwright regarding the swordsman's greatness that allowed her to be at ease. That, or she was entirely genuine when she claimed to have little concern with the opinion of her peers in such matters. She had a sense of honor, of course; but she refused to recognize anything wrong with the way she felt for the bastard son of the Warlord.

"Mateos de'Senam," she began respectively, giving the man a bow of her head. "That was brilliant! I am ashamed for not seeing your productions sooner. You may trust that I will making an effort to catch up on your works." She glanced briefly in her dark haired companion's direction. "Perhaps I can talk Will into accompanying me for a few shows he's already seen."

Her gaze returned to the playwright. "I will be certain to put in a good word with Lady Arianna. I firmly believe that you deserve the be seen at the summer festival."