Lords and Ladies (OPEN)

[Bsquad]

Sergeant Xavier

He almost pressed the issue, he almost asked Delara for an honest answer. But then if he had an honest answer he'd have the truth and at the moment, the truth would mean he'd be honor bound to relate it to the Lord Commander if he were to ask. If he merely had his suspicions...then he could tell the Lord Commander that he honestly didn't know what the truth of the matter was. He had a duty to Lord Simons, a duty to support him and defend him. But long ago he'd sworn a similar oath to his own people. Delara was one of his people, and he had a duty to protect her. It was a dangerous line to work across, but he would have to.

"You're in a dangerous place Delara...keen your secrets if you can. Though if you have a problem with the staff, with the guards...I'll do what I can to help you." Xavier said kindly, trying to assuage the fear that was etched in Delara's eyes. He reached out and gently touched the side of Delara's face, a pained look on his own features.

"You're in a very dangerous place Delara. I'll do what I can...but don't ask me to betray the Lord Commander." Xavier said finally.

Lord Simons

Simon's eyes opened slightly in suprise as Marotte entered the Library. Things had been getting slowly more interesting, reading the subtle cues coming from Princess Arabelle and Lady Aveline that the two of them were slowly growing rather closer, and getting much more interested in more deligtful pursuits. He was fully expecting the after dinner entertainment to be quite a bit more vigorus than most. But Marotte had created yet another interesting dynamic to the evening. He smiled as the Royal Guardian explained her presence. He chuckled softly as he examined her with a trained eye. Marotte was a trained soldier, but she was also the handpicked guard and envoy of the Emperor and Empress. He understood the double speak that came from the guardian easily and his chuckle turned into a small laugh before it subsided.

"I can assure you Lady Protector that the Royal heirs are completely safe in my citadel from any harm. After all, I entrust my own life to my staff, so I'm more than willing to entrust the lives of the Crown Prince and Princess to their care. If you have any doubts, then I'm sure that Sergant Xavier, my Chief bodyguard would be more than willing to entertain your concerns." Lord Simons said with a smile to the young warrior-woman. He was certain that Lady Aveline would be most keen to get to know Marotte much better, and he would have to be a part of that conversation.

"Or are the Emperor and Empress more concerned with much more...nefarious threats to Prince Antar and Princess Arabelle?" Simons asked without rising.

 

[Katamari Roller]

Marotte rose an eyebrow curiously at the blonde man´s sense of humour. Apparently, he enjoyed the intensity of politics. Perhaps, like the handling of a blade, politics were just another battlefield to be mastered and enjoyed by those with cold blood and quick wits. Marotte could not imagine herself earning much glory in such battles.

"I can assure you Lady Protector that the Royal heirs are completely safe in my citadel from any harm. After all, I entrust my own life to my staff, so I'm more than willing to entrust the lives of the Crown Prince and Princess to their care. If you have any doubts, then I'm sure that Sergant Xavier, my Chief bodyguard would be more than willing to entertain your concerns."

On hearing the man´s first words and their implications, though, she felt her mood lift if just a bit, which translated in the disappearance of droopiness and return of severity to her features. So this man was Lord Simons, the hero of the Empire and main point of attention of the Empress. At a glance, Marotte could tell that he certainly must have the qualities to have fought to his position, rather than slept around or back-stabbed a few unfortunate nobles in his path. But of course, she could imagine a healthy dose of that, mixed with strength and military cunning, would do better for him than pure virtue.

As for the princes´ safety, of course she intended to talk to Sergeant Xavier, but it was difficult to imagine Lord Simons being stupid enough to kill the princes in his own citadel. As the Empress had told Marotte, the threat to the Crown would be more insidious.

"Or are the Emperor and Empress more concerned with much more...nefarious threats to Prince Antar and Princess Arabelle?"

"Hmmm..." Marotte stared right into his eyes. She rather liked their silvery colour, very military. Like a sword, or a dagger´s. "Is there anyone in this world without enemies?" The blonde soldier asked back in a velvet-soft tone of voice, her lips barely moving and quickly returning to their position, relaxed in her own eyes but tense in others´.

 

[Bsquad]

Lord Simons

Lord Simons watched Marotte with one of his usually piercing gaze. Underestimating this woman would be a miscalculation that he could ill afford. He smiled again, she didn't seem to be very relaxed, but facing the gaze of four nobles would make anyone tense. His eyes glanced at the others seated at the table in turn, wondering just who their enemies might be. He took solace in the knowledge that he was safe from physical danger in how own citadel...but the more subtle dangers of the court were insidious and pervasive...and as silent as shadows.

"No, Lady Protector, there is no-one without enemies, but if you only consider your enemies you can blind yourself to the threats they pose. Always remember that there are loyal coleagues and even more loyal servants to consider. For example...the Eastern peoples are enemies of the Emperor and Empress...but they have a loyal servant in me to combat them." Lord Simons said with a grim look in his eyes. His silver eyes almost glinted in the firelight as he spoke so pointedly about his own role in the Empire. He stood up from the table and bowed slightly in respect to the Lady Protector.

"And the Empire has loyal soldiers like you and I to defend it from those many foes." He said with a sly smile before sitting back at the table and lifting his wine goblet.

"Please, you and your guards must be just as fatigued by the journey as the Prince and Princess. Help yourselves to food from the kitchens...though if you wish to consult with my bodyguard, Sergeant Xavier is on the upper floors of my private residence." Lord Simons said, wondering where the eastern swordsman had gotten too.

 

[Katamari Roller]

Marotte started, if not liking, then at least respecting Lord Simons as soon as he pointed out his own role in the Empire. It was true that he had led one of the most successful campaigns in the Empire´s history, and although the Lady Protector would normally have despised a boastful man, noble or warrior, Lord Simons had only mirrored her attitude and put good strength behind his claims.

Marotte hated herself for succumbing to the pleasing tone of Lord Simons´ following discourse, though. It was an obvious attempt at flattery that, no matter how wrong she knew it to be, felt good right in front of her, displacing her natural distrust and realism to the back of her head. Who cared if Lord Simons was trying to flatter her to ease her presence into his `court´, or if he was possibly trying to look good in her eyes? It was true that the Empire was strengthened thanks to the effort of its soldiers... as long as they did not openly rebel against their masters.

Lord Simons, in any case, managed to make Marotte smile awkwardly, and bow in response.

"Please, you and your guards must be just as fatigued by the journey as the Prince and Princess. Help yourselves to food from the kitchens...though if you wish to consult with my bodyguard, Sergeant Xavier is on the upper floors of my private residence."

Marotte turned to Marius, and nodded. Marius immediately turned to push his way back into and through the Crown Princes´ retinue. Marotte turned to the gathered nobles, as her eyes looked for the most appropriate chair to sit on. "Sergeant Marius will take care of the Royal Guard´s needs. Meanwhile, I think it would only be proper for me to stay. I cannot take my charge as Lady Protector only to scamper off at the first chance..." Her green eyes fixed on Lord Simons´ with an openly proud attitude for a moment, before she took a seat close to Princess Arabelle, but off to a side. Almost the position of a referee in a match between Arabelle and Lord Simons.

Then, she had a most curious gesture. The Lady Protector crossed one of her legs over the other, while resting her elbow on the armrest, and her head onto her hand. A proud but somewhat careless posture. Of course, this did not reveal anything compromising given the long, ample skirt that she wore, but it was a unique action from a woman in high position. It was a gesture that came from a very specific place in the Empire, the only place in which a woman crossing her legs before a noble was not considered bad form. The province of Berlion, one of the first northern territories to be conquered by the Empire almost two centuries ago. A lush land that gave birth to some of the best infantry units in the Imperial army.

This gesture revealed two clear details. One, that Lady Marotte came from a long line of warriors who had fought both against, and for the Empire. And two, that either she did not care for the etiquette of the nobles of the rest of the Empire... or that she did not know it was improper in the first place to perform such a gesture in these conditions.

 

[Ausus_girl13]

Arabelle watched the exchange between Marotte and Simons with a growing interest, the two just had to show the other their big, bad, honor. She found it amusing and had to stifle a giggle. She leaned closer to Lady Aveline and found the girl with a very lovesick look on her face. Interesting, thought Arabelle, she knew that the girl was interested in being a soldier and here a female soldier had presented. Well! Arabelle could play matchmaker too! She also noticed the scowl return to Simons face when he noticed Aveline's open admiration. Arabelle was going to enjoy this very much.

"Lady Marotte, I do know that Father has instructed you to "serve and protect" but unless you plan on tasting my meal, please join us at the table or see that the accommodations meet your standards" Princess Arabelle ordered idly. She gestured at a seat on the other side of Lady Aveline.

Prince Antar stifled a groan, he knew his sister was trying the patience of their host and was curious how it would play out.

"Lord Simons, would you like to take the horses out for an early morning run?" Antar asked hopefully, determined to take the pressure off whatever Lady Marotte chose.

They all watched as the servants began bringing in dishes heaped with food, the dogs of the household getting underfoot of the servers, but not a drop of food made into their hopeful jaws. It all smelled delicious and was a credit to the head maid of the house.

 

[monique_minx]

Juniper

Juni raised a brow at Kai's outburst and smiled understanding, she had seen Kai take an interest in Delara when May told him where he could find clothes for her.

"Ya don't 'ave a chance in hell ya know? She ain't never goin' to bed the likes of you and even if she wanted to; she's a slave. Means ya have to ask 'is Lordship, that'd be too humiliatin' for 'er." Juniper stated factually, hiding her annoyance well; servant didn't get along with slaves at the best of times.

"You'd best be gettin' over 'er Kai, ya don't 'ave a chance." Juni kept her jealousy in check, she hated it when Kai's eyes wandered but she always managed to keep his interest in the end; it was just a fleeting crush.

Delara

Delara closed her eyes and breathed a sigh of relief as Xavier's hand caressed her cheek, it felt calming that she had met someone that could understand her predictament. She didn't push him away though she could have, he had shown her mercy she hadn't known from anyone else thus far and her eyes fluttered open with a question as something he'd said hit her.

"He'll try to get my secret from me tonight won't he?" She asked in a hushed voice; afraid that anyone might hear.

Delara looked directly into Xavier's eyes "His Lordship invited me to His quarters this evening; after Lady Aveline retires."

She bit her lip hoping the Royal's visit would make a difference, she knew Arabelle and Antar were insatiable and were most likely to jump at the chance to bed either Lord Simons or Lady Aveline.

Delara wanted to know why Xavier wanted to help her or at least keep her secret but didn't wish to press him or her luck.

For the first time since she had arrived Delara felt that she had finally found a potential ally in this strange country but at the same time a sense of foreboding filled her, Xavier had the power to turn her in at any time.

"I would never ask you to betray your Commander Sir." Delara assured him, she had great respect for Xavier now and he was not what gossip and rumours made him out to be.

Delara gave him the smallest of curtsies, he was too close to do anymore but she wanted to show him her appreciation, the kindness is his eyes made her feel warm and her heart skipped a beat as she pictured her fiance looking at her the same way.

She wasn't marrying for love; only position but Lord Parlasus (her fiance) had gained her respect and his eyes devoured her like most men but held an extra glaze of possession because he would be the one to keep her...would've been the one; Delara thought to herself before her mind returned to Xavier. She would only allow herself to think of her fiance and her noble life for a few moments at a time, she needed to keep hope but not break down.

 

[Katamari Roller]

"I suppose I will accept your offer." Marotte conceded with a dismissive shrug of her shoulders before moving on to sit where the princess had indicated. She did not care much for the arrogance of the princes, but although she did not want to displease them, her pride would not have her grovelling at their feet like the well-dressed dogs standing in the hallway beyond the doors.

As she walked, she couldn´t help glancing at the young woman she guessed would be her dinner partner for the evening. She seemed interested on her, for good or bad, Marotte could not guess, and she had other priorities at the moment. The Lady Protector simply sat down, with her elbows on the table and her chin on her crossed hands as she waited for the food to come, which she certainly had an urge to dig in. The Empress had made sure that Marotte and her soldiers would hurry to their duty, and that meant sore legs and an empty stomach. When the food came, though, Lady Marotte quickly sat straight to let the servants put the food on the table. And such food... Marotte ate with gusto, and her eyes barely left her dishes until they were clean. She had little grace, being the kind of soldier who ate for food and not for socializing, but she did enjoy this rare feast slowly.

As for the dogs at their feet, Marotte tossed a piece of meat now and then to the one who fixed upon her, but none at the others. She liked animals since she was a child, and grinned, seeing the loyal, undivided attention of the poor beast.

From that, many men and women could learn, she mused...

 

[monique_minx]

OOC: Ignore that, I've reported it...unfortunate to have had that happen

 

[Bsquad]

Sergeant Xavier

The vulnerability that Delara showed in her relief was something that stabbed deep into Xavier's soul. She had so little to cling too, so little to trust that the honesty that he'd shown her...it shook him, and it banished whatever thoughts of betraying that scant trust from his thoughts. Wheither Delara knew it or not she'd found one guardian in this hostile place...and their were few better placed protectors she could call upon. He smiled at her curtsy and he bowed his head to her.

"I do not think that Lord Simons will be able to interrogate you this evening. So many guests will make for more intriguing listening." Xavier said to her, and for a moment, the thought of the Royals forced him to envision Delara in similar circumstance. Well dressed and well apointed, surrounded by cortesans and attendants, overlooking her court...and the vision was approrpriate for her. It was her element, reluctant...perhaps, but approriate. The expression of realization flashed over his face before he forced himself back to a neutral visage.

Almost conspiratorily, he leaned forward, close enough that her ear could feel the warmth of his breath and he spoke two words softly; "Lady Delara."

Lord Simons

As much as Lord Simons enjoyed playing word games with his guests, he drew a much greater degree of pleasure from watching their interactions. While the new arrival of Lady Protector Marotte was intriguing, it was not unexpected. With the rumors of what the Royal heirs were up to, it was easy to see why the Emperor and Empress were interested in getting a tighter reign over their offspring. Rumors alone could do much damage to their authority in the future. But just how Marotte would manage to keep the Royals from mounting any Noble they too a whim too would be an interesting excersize...especially considering that Princess Arabelle seemed to intend for him to be her next toy. He smiled whistfully, then glanced over at the young Princess.

She seemed to be contemplating Marotte, but her own vision flicked between Lady Aveline and the Lady Protector...but if the rumors were true in every aspect, the Princess might decide that perhaps Lady Aveline and Marotte would be more stimulating for the evening. He smiled at the thought, though his interest in that would be more detached. He didn't say anything as he watched Marotte eating with a single minded determination...all three women were quite intriguing...each in their own contrast. A princess who did what she wanted, a Lady who wanted to be something that she couldn't, and a soldier who did what needed to be done...

...and a maid who seemed to be far more than she appeared. There was that intriguing little riddle that he had hardly begun to probe at the moment.

 

[monique_minx]

OOC: Valstonia is Delara's home country.

Delara

Delara gasped at the use of her title and coupled with Xavier's warm breath; it sent a shiver down her spine. However she was unable to discern if the shiver was good or bad just yet.

She could lie but it would be obvious, she could protest but it would be futile so she simply decided to be plain about the matter. If she was to make a friend of this man she would not blatently lie and insult his intelligence.

She replied softly "No Sir, here I am merely the slave; Delara Cooper."

Delara stared straight into the man's steely chest, he was a decent bit taller than her and so close to her that she could feel his body heat in waves. Something forced Delara to shut her eyes and re-focus, a stirring emotion of some kind that she refused to probe.

Delara concentrated, there was still some crucial information she needed to know and if anyone could help her it would be the formidable soldier standing before her.

Her eyes opened with purpose, her voice still low "In Valstonia the punishment for slaves caught carrying weapons is immediate execution but what is it here Sir? There are things I need to know if I am to survive this...I know next to nothing of this country..." Delara trailed off; afraid she had said too much.

While he had shown her a kind of friendship; Delara knew this man obviously had split loyalties and limits that would only stretch so far but at the same time she had to know what the consequences of her actions would be.

In particular the punishment for the one action Lord Simons had pointed out upon her arrival; escape. He had placed emphasis on both her and her gender, this still dwelled in her mind as though he had stuck her with a needle she could not remove and with every passing moment it sunk deeper.

 

[Bsquad]

Sergeant Xavier

Savier caught the almost imperceptible shiver run through Delara from the corner of his eye, he could tell that he had touched a sensitive part of her psychie with his direct adress of her. But that knowledge was not confirmed, and because of that he didn't need to lie...even with Delara's stating she was a slave, complete with a commoner's surname... He pulled away from her, nodding in agreement with her name.

"As you say, Delara Cooper. As you say." Xavier repeated, as though saying it made the words as true as divine pronouncement. He looked back to the still secure door as though someone may have been watching, but turned back, satisfied that they were still alone.

"In the Empire Slaves are people...Posessions yes, but still people. Weapons are not forbidden since many slaves are used as hunters, house-staff and such and since it's hard to tell the difference between a blade used to cut a roast and a blade used to cut a throat...just do not use it against the Lord or a Royal. If you do that, then you will find no protection under the law, and your punishment will be...unspeakable." He said, the last word full of distatste.

"What the Lord said about punishing escapes..." Xavier said quietly, reading Delara's eyes, "he dosen't let the guards have their way with you...he sells you off to one of the Bordelos who cater to more lewid appetites." Xavier whispered to her, his eyes looking warily at her and wondering wheither she would try to escape from the Lord Commander...he couldn't blame her if she was planning on it. But the chances were unlikely...he'd heard the screams of far too many female slaves who had tried to escape from the citadel.

 

[Ausus_girl13]

Arabelle introduced Lady Marotte to Lady Aveline and allowed to the conversation to take its turn. It was rather cute how Lady Aveline kept giggling and Lady Marotte, well she just kept throwing food to the dogs. Arabelle would just have a word with her after supper. She would not allow her protector to act like boorish. Or perhaps...Arabelle looked at her brother meaningfully.

Antar received his sister's meaning without problem. He looked at the Lady Protector in all her blonde strength, and he couldn't help but allow his mind to wander. He could imagine her tied up full of indignant fury, her lovely hands above her head and her long blonde hair let lose over her supple skin to tickle all the remaining welts from where he had punished her. Her cries flowing over him, and when she was let loose to fall to her knees in supplication to his sister where she would kiss those tears away and replace them with moans. It was such a nice little image, Antar wondered if Lord Simons would want to join them. Or what Lord Simons would really want.

Antar relinquished the thoughts, and stood up to gather the attention of the room.

"My Sister and I would like to thank Lord Simons for his hospitality during our stay, and that we are both equally excited to have a moment in our Royal progression to visit his holdings." He waited a moment and added, " Now would it be too much to ask for a tour or at least a walk around the castle, I am absolutely packed full of this wonderful food!"

 

[FaeBites]

At the Lady Protectors introduction Avelines interest spiked predictably. She sighed softly, her sapphire gaze intently scouring her heroine. She'd heard of the woman of course, sh was after all almost living Avelines dream. Almost. As the good Lord Simons had said, she didn't have the obediance for a soliders life. Aveline realised her plight was a complicated one, when she wasn't willing to make the sacrifices to take the options that were available (ignoring her parents completely of course). She'd been told before she was more inlove with the idea of what she wanted to be, not the truth of it, for if that wasn't true she'd willing make the sacrifices to enter the lifestyle she craved. Aveline found it hard to believe that, she just felt like she was waiting for something, some sign, some chance, and it hadn't arrived yet.

She followed the verbal tenis between Lady Knight and Lord, though still aware of the other occupants of the table. The closeness off the Princess thrilled her with exotic thoughts provoked by her scent. She'd never quite made a complete decision on sexual preference as she'd hadn't much want to dally with it, but it was becoming increasingly believable that woman held thier own forbidden excitement shivering down her spine - well the Princess certainly did. As Arabelle invited Marotte to the table Aveline smiled delightedly, a whole tumble of questions and admirations threatening her tongue, though her mind didn't quite know where to start. So she calmed the muscle with food as it was served, saiting her hunger while she observed her companions with dancing eyes. She smiled as the princess introduced them, shaking her head, "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, I have to admit I've been following stories of your adventures keenly. I might have even thrown myself into your footprints - well I still might - but I have been told quite a few times I don't have the attitude nor obediance for a soliders life." She giggled slightly, then caught herself, and decided she'd had quit enough wine for the moment if that's what it was inducing.

A slight flush rose on her porcelian cheeks, but Antar rising caught her slightly muddled attention enough. She raised her glass in toast, but didn't take a sip, drinking water instead. She smiled at the mention of a tour, unable to keep her eyes from flickering over his form. He really was a devine specimen, even for a prince. Torn between wanting to spend unlimited time with the royals, but also her usual restlessness settling in and calling for release, she finally made a decision. Her fingers caught at Arabelles arm before everyone decided to move off for the tour, her finger tips brushing against the soft flesh. Even so slight a feel of her sent a electric jolt tinging up her arm. "I'm going to disappear to my chambers to freshen up and, well, clear my head." She laughed softly, a mock guilty smile on her lips, "It seems i've indulged slightly to much to stop the room from remaining entirely in one place! But perhaps you - and your brother if he's interested - would care to join me for a starlight ride after your tour? I'm restless for the galloping hooves beneath me."

Her fingers had remained rested on the tantilizing skin far to long then was nessassary, but the lightness in her head brought that to her attention rather slowly. She smiled and dropped her hand when she did finally notice, a rueful grin dragging at ruby lips "perhaps it's not the wine after all that's so intoxicating..." She mused firtaciously, the wine making her bolder then usual. She shook her head, flushing when her sense of self caught up with her. "Ah, now look what you've made me do! Well, anyway I'll meet you at the stables if you're interested..." SHe shook her head again, and with a quick parting grin, disappeared out of the room before she could embarress herself further.

"That is definitely the last time you drink, Aveline." She murmured to herself softly, pressing her hands to her warmed cheeks. "You certainly can't contain yourself." Another rueful grin, then she headed for her rooms.

 

[monique_minx]

Delara

Delara's eyes widened in horror, she couldn't imagine being a prostitute because while she was no virgin; the only man to get beneath her corset was Lord Parlasus or Edmund as she called him in private. This caused her to seriously reconsider escaping, the consequences if she was caught were far worse than she had ever envisioned.

She blinked back to reality and heard the scraping of chairs on the lower level; dinner had finished. Delara looked out the window, the sun had begun to sink below the horizon and torches were being lit in the streets and the castle courtyard.

"Sir we should depart before the maids come to light the candles." Delara opened the door and headed out through the servant's staircase, emerging from a back door and on to the practise courts.

Delara looked around, there was a jousting arena, a spare fenced off area for hand to hand combat and sword play and an archery court with targets. She raised a brow and led Xavier to the archery court, she looked from the bows and quivers of arrows to Xavier.

"You're certain I won't get in any trouble?"

Delara longed to take a shot but realized if anyone saw her shoot well it would only raise more suspicion.

"Can you shoot Sir? I'm aware of your skills with a sword but what else are you skilled with?"

Delara decided that if she picked a bow she would shoot as badly as she could manage; unwilling to risk anyone seeing how skilled she really was.

 

[Bsquad]

Lord Simons

Simons watched Aveline's rather un-restrained words with a small smile. The young woman seemed to be more overwhelmed by her company more than the wine. Of course, one could say that was understandable being joined by two Royals and their guardian who seemed to personify that which Lady Aveline wished to be. He smiled to her as she seemed to welcome the two Royal heirs on an evening ride, and wondered if she knew what she might be getting herself into. Place made no difference for the two, they would have her regardless if it was in the bedchamber or a moonlit road...but Aveline was a woman who knew how to take care of herself.

"Well, it would seem that young Lady Aveline is more interested in an evening ride. I however am still fatigued from my own travels and have no interest in leaving the scant comfort of my fortress. Though if you would still prefer the tour I am more than willing to provide one." Lord Simons said as he finished his food, full and satisfied from the meal and looking at Arabelle, the vivacious young woman still enticing to him, leaving him wondering which she would prefer, himself or Aveline.

Sergant Xavier

Xavier followed Delara as she left the study, her determination leading Xavier without question he would follow him. Once more the swordsman was taken by the determination and poise that bled through Delara's maid disguise. She knew her way through the Castle, and lead him to the training field. How she had found it so quickly, Xavier couldn't tell,m but he had the sneaking suspicion that she would have found her way here blind-folded and deafened. He said nothing as she walked towards the archery butte and examined one of the longbows that had been left beneath the wooden overhang that sheilded it from the rain.

The weapon was not one of exceptional quality, good enough for training and practice, but not a weapon of war. Xavier looked from it to her, and saw the fleeting look in Delara's eyes that she would know exactly what to do if she had it in her hands. He smiled slightly and reached out, lifting the weapon from where it leaned and examining it.

"I know how to use a bow, but I prefer the sword, using a weapon of close personal interaction is far more my ability and prefernce than one of avoidance and distance. Combat should be a personal affair." He said simply, and twanged the bowstring, testing the tension, then looking back to Delara. Struck by a simple thought, he lifted the weapon up and offered it to her.

"Perhaps you should try it Delara." He said, smiling at her and keeping his gold eyes focused on her.

 

[Katamari Roller]

Lady Aveline´s comments on her past experience left Marotte a bit confused, but also content. It would be a bit of a stretch to call her war service an adventure, which made it sound a lot too glamorous. But what she was most interested in, was what Lady Aveline might have heard. Marotte knew combat feats had a way to become exaggerated over time, distance and transmitters. Still, she tucked those thoughts away when the activities for the rest of the day started to be discussed. She did not like the idea of having the Crown Princes wandering around outside the citadel without Lady Marotte knowing the landscape. She had not had the time to inspect the layout of Lord Simons´ lands, and as paranoid as those thoughts were, Marotte thought them justified given the importance of the assignment.

"It might be a bit too late to go out for a ride, and not healthy. Perhaps we could ride tomorrow morning, after a good breakfast, for exercise. Meanwhile, a tour of the inside of your home sounds most pleasing."

Lady Marotte addressed Lord Simons directly after wiping her lips clean gently, knowing that Princess Arabelle would not listen to her suggestions about what activities were healthy or not. Going through Lord Simons was more diplomatic, seeing how he was the host and the person Lady Arabelle probably wished to please. Still, Lady Marotte was not so stupid as to ignore Arabelle and her brother. She turned to her inmediately.

"Besides, the Royal Guards have had a long journey, and going out for a ride would demand their presence. I do not feel confident going out with tired men as your escort, milords."

 

[monique_minx]

Delara

Delara bit her lip, she eyed the bow and longed to take it, to feel some semblance of control in a situation that she had long since lost control over. She couldn't, she knew she couldn't; the risk was too great and she had no idea if she could actually manage to shoot badly - never having tried before.

She cocked a brow and pursed her lips "you know very well that a slave can not shoot Sir".

She hadn't lied, a slave couldn't shoot an arrow to save their life, they weren't trained to do so but she hadn't lied in the sense that she had not said she couldn't shoot.

The temptation to take all her fury out on one of those targets was very nearly overwhelming however and she found herself wishing she had never come down here. Delara's expression took on one of controlled desire and contempt, it was just another of a million things she could do quite well but had to lie about in her current situation.

A slave had no formal education where she had extensive learning, a slave had no skill with weapons and she had practised everyday at home and now faced with yet another skill she had mastered; she was unable to use it.

 

[Bsquad]

Sergeant Xavier

Xavier's eyes narrowed as he looked from Delara to the bow. She was skillful with her words, but she was not skilled enough to hide the physical signs of an archer.

"You have some odd calouses for someone who cannot shoot a bow." Xavier said simply, nodding towards hier right hand. Practice left it's mark on a body, and he'd caught those marks when she'd reached up to refuse the bow. He smiled as the look in her eyes seemed to plead to hold the weapon and yet want to shove it away at the same time.

"No one is watching besides me." Xavier said, raising the bow slightly.

 

[monique_minx]

Delara

In one smooth motion Delara looked from Xavier to her hand, scoffed and rolled her eyes. Good one Lark! Delara thought to herself using an affectionate childhood nickname, she had earned it by being a klutz in her youth.

"While you may be overly apt observationally" Delara took the bow from him, severe sarcasm mottling her voice as she finished in something of a whisper "you are also irritatingly correct."

Delara reached down and took not one but three arrows from a quiver near her feet and took a few steps to set her body in line with the target. Her eyes made a quick sweeping motion to ensure no one was watching, she placed the three arrows in the bow carefully and held each in between her fingers.

She sighed, the feeling of the arrows between her fingers was inexplicably calming, she pulled the bowstring back and loosed the first arrow, the second and third following in quick succession so they appeared to hit the bullseye at the same time. It was a simple trick of the eye but Delara expected Xavier would know that she had not loosed them at the same time, it was impossible to cluster them so closely together if they were shot together.

Delara turned to Xavier with an expression on her face that only read as satisfied?

 

[Ausus_girl13]

Arabelle couldn't believe the audacity of the Lady Protector. For a servant to make suggestions, yes; when it is asked for. But to have them change their plans simply because the men were tired? Oh bloody, boo-hoo! Arabelle took a calming breath before she said anything.

"Lady Marotte, please escort my brother on his ride. I trust that you are awake enough to do this?" Arabelle said quietly she added with finality, "and that will be all, unless my brother has a chore for you to do." Then brightly, she said to Lord Simons, " I do believe you were going to give me a tour? I am very excited to see, your holdings" She looked at him meaningfully.

Antar grinned at his sister, she could be quite, well royal, when necessary. He turned to head in the direction of the stables knowing that the Lady Protector was silently trailing him. He might just enjoy this ride; his stallion thundering over the moonlit pastures and two very enticing, heated women near him. Exhilarating, indeed! He might just need that large breakfast that Lady Marotte mentioned.

 

[Bsquad]

Sergeant Xavier

He was impressed. To speak frankly he had never seen that degree of skill present in anyone but a well practiced archer...perhaps not even outdside th eranks of the Zen Archers who practiced without sight, spending every moment of their time training and practicing until their abilities were honed to the point that they could strike at the faintest sound, extinguish candle flames with the passing whisper of an arrow's fletching...place a quarrel between the weapest points of a suit of armor. Xavier's suprise was well restrained, but he blinked in shock at Delara's skill.

"Most impressive." He allowed, sounding almost exasperated. He reached out and ran a forefinger across the worn curve of the bow. His finger brushed across Delara's fingers holding the weapon.

"Perhaps I should let Lord Simons know that you would be better used training the archers than cleaning floors." Xavier said, almost playfuly.

"You're a woman of exceptional talent, I would hate to find myself in your gaze, especially if it were one of anger." He finished.

Lord Simons

Simons smiled slightly, the twins both seemed to be interested in going on with different adventures, though if Lady Marotte were going to allow the Crown Prince to ride alone...well, she wouldn't do such a thing. Standing up and allowing the smile to remain on his lips as he bowed in respect to Princess Arabelle.

"But of course, it would be my pleasure to escort you on a tour of the Fortress...although if Lady Protector Marotte is concerned, I can asure your safety in my presence if she decides to escort your brother on his ride." He said, looking to Marotte before directing his full attentions to the Amber haired princess. He smiled and stepped around the edge of the table to offer her his arm as escort.

"What would you be most interested in seeing, Princess Arabelle? The more military aspects, or the social aspects of my home? Or do you wish to examine my own prized collections and living spaces? I do have quite a large number of trophies and gifts from the outer-lying regions of the Empire...I'd bet you would consider them quite intriguing." Lord Simons said to the young woman.

 

[Katamari Roller]

The insolence of the princess grated on her nerves. Who did the princess think the Lady Protector was? A mere servant? A lowly maid? Now it was clear to her that the Crown Princes had been spoiled too much by their parents... or that they had been born devils. Lady Marotte stood up with such harshness that her chair dragged loudly on the floor. She stared directly at Lord Simons, with the same expression she bore on first coming into the library. Her eyes open in alert but at the same time, dismissive, and her upper lip jutting out just a little bit, a very strange kind of pout.

"I suppose Lord Simons can cope with this responsibility. After all, his career in serving the Empire has gone very far..."

Without uttering another word, she turned her back on them and walked away leaving behind a tense atmosphere. It was clear that if Lord Simons wanted to play games with the Crown Princes, he was free to do so... at his own risk. As for Marotte, she could not be in two places at the same time. Clearly, this was the problem with the Crown Princes. Being together all the time, they shared secrets and games, and could cover each other on their extravagant behaviour. In that case, it was clear Lady Marotte would have to deal with them in a more... indirect way.

"Bring me my combat uniform and weapons, as well as my horse!" She commanded at the first Royal Guard she saw on reaching the courtyard.

 

[monique_minx]

Delara

Delara pressed her lips together to stop the cheeky grin that threatened to appear, she rolled her eyes as he toyed with her. She eyed his fingers as they brushed her's so slightly.

"I very much doubt that His Lordship would require any pointers from me Sir." She spoke sarcasticly, allowing the grin to appear.

Delara shook her head at his words smiling; me? Scary?

"While I hardly think a woman such as myself could possibly frighten the likes of you Sir; it would take much to anger me. If it would put you at ease; I have never yet raised a weapon in defense or attack."

Everything about Delara screamed that she was being sarcastic, especially the grin on her face. She was more than accustomed to courtly banter and she had used her skills flirtaciously more than once.

"Every woman should be as able to defend her home as any man Sir, wouldn't you agree?" She neglected to mention every Noblewoman on purpose but Delara guessed Xavier would catch it, he had caught everything thus far, she just didn't want him to speak of it.

 

[FaeBites]

ooc: Needed to get Aveline out of the picture for a bit as I'm going camping untill monday xP So she's going to be unconcious for the rest of the night! she's incredibly sorry for standing Antar up I promise <3 See you all when I get back!


IC: Aveline made it to her rooms with only one main point of drama, her head protesting as she tried navigate the world that seemed to keep leaning on her. Damn the invention of alcohol! She scowled furiously, all lightness of her previous mood vanishing under the steady onset of unease. Something was not right. The shadows of the hallways seemed to stretch and twist unsettlingly, her clothes clinging to her body in constricting and creative ways. It was only when she stumbled against the door to her room that her mind snagged on one purely disastrous thought.

Poison.

It was true; alcohol had never affected her like this before, setting her skin afire and her mind jarring on every thought like a faulty wheel. Breaths panicked in her lungs, as she scrambled to push open the door, stumbling inside. “Annie-“ She gasped, then paused her head heavy with panic when she realised that was wrong. She’d dismissed that attendant. Her mind swirled into a deepening haze, as she searched for the new girls name – her pretty face and the mystery hiding behind her eyes coming into sight before she stumbled on the syllables. “Delara!” She near cried, but the room remained dark and silent, portraying its emptiness.

The halls seemed too much of a chore to navigate now, her legs trembling with the mere effort to stand. She pulled at her clothes in a sudden fever to be free of them, fighting with the chords of her corset until finally some god took pity and let them fall unlaced around her. The thin cotton underdress clung to the sweat of her body, and she collapsed in front of the chamber pot, willing herself to retch the toxins from her system. Only when her throat felt like fire and the taste destroyed all remaining sense of wellbeing did some of the panic ebb into a black hole of exhaustion and fever.

One thought remain struggling around her tortured mind as she clung to clarity and conciousness. Why her? Images of Simmons dark threatening eyes sent shudders of desire laced fear combing freely down her spine. But this seemed too gutless for him; she’d thought he was the kind to at least be upfront and arrogant about her helplessness in such a situation. Besides, the calculating desire she’d tried to ignore from his gaze these previous hours led her to believe this would be wasteful to him. Who then? And why! Sure she’d made enemies – but assassination was a little strong. She had been sitting next to the crowned princess all night – was it possible she’d intercepted poison meant for the royal twin?

Such thoughts led to another wave of nausea, barely battled by the memory of Arabelles soft skin, and Antars hypnotizing eyes. She collapsed into her bed, hoping for now the worse had passed. The thought that she might never wake from her slumber gripped her with cold terror, but her body’s exhaustion was complete, she didn’t have the strength to raise the covers, nor correct her position on the bed. She lay hazzardly across it, curled protectively on one side as shudders of fever traced her body. Her skin burnt with her temperature, her curls seeming to curl protectively about her bare shoulders as her muscles finally relaxed entirely onto the mattress. Darkness came swiftly, a brought with it disturbing dreams and nightmares, her body twitching as it battled the last of the toxin from her system.

 

[Bsquad]

Sergeant Xavier

Xavier could tell that despite the sarcasm in her voice, she was somewhat pleased...a warrior always wanted their skills to be appreciated. He could see true talent, and deadly skill, but once again he had to let it pass as something that was not unusual. It was slightly maddening that Delara was working so hard to conceal everything about her self from outsiders, but then how could he blame her, if she revealed anything it would not bode well for her. He smiled and bowed his head to her in a gestured of surrender, his red ponytail falling over his shoulder in a move that mirrored Delara's own long hair.

"Quite true, Delara. Every woman should, though our people do take great pains to prove that women can bear the same burdens as men...things in the Empire are slightly different." Xavier said looking back to the target, slowly pacing down the range, his voice clearly calling to Delara as he walked. His hand slowly sliding down to the hilt of his blade.

"As I said, I prefer to be more personal in my ways." He was a dozen paces from the wooden target, looking at it speculatively. His hand on his sword hilt, he waited a moment before he struck.

In the blink of an eye he had darted forward, seeming to glide through the air and his blade slicing thorgh the wood mountings as easily as the air before it. It was a continuous motion, sword draw, slicing it's target, sheathing, so quick and seamless that the only thing that could be seen was a gleam of steel before he was standing still, looking back at Delara. His eyes almost seemed to dare her to send a shaft his way.

"There's something more pure about it." Xavier said.