Madrigal Dinner

[Make_My_Day]

Queen Ana

I smile gratefully at Maximilian and softly press my lips against his cheek. Lightly placing my hand on his leg under the table.
I do love him. Not simply because of the fact that he would give me anything I might want. But simply because he wants to make me happy. What more could any woman ask for than a man who wants to make her happy.
Rando jumps and dances around the table and although I have seen him act funny so many times, he always manages to make me smile. I love that mischievous twinkle in his eyes.
I follow his eyes.. Magenta.. so exotic, so passionate, a sultry night impersonated. I sip my wine once more, slightly embarrassed about the fact that I can’t take my eyes of her when she dances..

 

[doctor_insanus]

Rando the Ridiculous

Out of the corner of my eye, I see the dancer smile. Was that one for me? Ho ho!

Flipping over, I push myself up to a handstand and begin walking on my hands before the King's table. When I reach Katherine's seat, I pull up the tablecloth and glance under the table. Turning back to the crowd, my eyes wide, I begin kicking my legs frantically.

Rolling over, now sitting before the table, I reach into my pants and pull out another set of balls. With a knowing smile to the lady, I begin juggling again.

Was that a small round of laughter? Come on, you pampered sods! Laugh!

 

[intriguess]

Magenta

well the juggler certainly did seem to have plenty of balls. I winked in such a way that everyone from King to Queen and Lady Catherine and juggler would think it was just for them, but the night was young and food upon us. As day shifted to night the music became softer, the wine flowed freely and many a fool parted from his money. My gauzy costume was revealing more skin as unseen hands pulled the scarves off. I smiled as each person tucked the scark away.

 

[Earthgoddess]

Winding my way through the throng with a platter of Roasted pheasants was made all the more difficult by the pinches that seem to impede any real progress. If another ill bred dog laughed and licked his slobbering maw as he groped me pheasant was going onto his brain pan. The tiny vial nestled in my bodice as I wound slowly closer to the Queen. Her beauty far outshown the other lovelies-yet she seemed colder like the Moon. Her sister was clearly the Sun-warm and fiery. The hall glittered with women like jewels all rare and finely dressed-yet I felt no jealousy.
It never paid to wish for the impossible-I was respected in the vilage, and not being High Born woul never be more than a curvy bed warmer for these men.
Another pinch-this one right on my ample bottom made me gasp and inadvertantly I dropped a pheasant onto the straw.
The herbed and oiled bird landed with a soft thud as I gasped.

 

[Thor's Hammer]

Thor (advisor to the King)

I sipped......slowly....from my goblet. I never allowed myself to sink into the bottom of a goblet. Too often, loose tongues wag - and then the axe falls on their foolish necks.

The dancer has obviously captured the attention of all the males - and not a few of the women as well. Rando is playing the buffon/fool as usual, but that one is no fool. He bears watching - lest his ambitions exceed his station.

The King seems taken with the dancer - she is lovely - but only one of many that will enjoy my....interests.

Distracted, I turn my head as a pheasant flies through the air and lands on the straw. How low have we sunk in our choice of serving wenches? The kitchen steward will hear from me tomorrow.

 

[Earthgoddess]

Blushing furiously I glance over to see the noble glaring at me, damn High Born. If if weren't for the disgusting pawing of one of the knights that pheasant would have stayed put. My skin sore from the groping I make my way to the irritated one. Hoping at least to level the ground and stop drawing such unwanted attention.

 

[LittleRedDevil]

I played absently with my amulet, watching with buried amusement as Rando danced and played games with the nobles. My eyes twinkled with merriment. I scanned the room and froze when I encounted the King's advisor. I knew much of him. I always paid attention when my father spoke of politics, his favorite subject. This one was seeking the throne, he was seeking the power of the kingdom.

 

[Thor's Hammer]

Thor (the King's advisor)

The pheasant dropper has the temerity to approach ME! One hand snakes out...grips her wrist....."What is your name? I will see that you have proper training," I thundered. Her eyes were frightened.....perhaps I will not have to see her punished after all......

 

[Inkubus]

King Maximilian

Wonderfull almost all are smiling, now this is the way life should be! I look across the room and not Gloriana seems to not be having fun, perhaps I should get my steward to show her the royal libraries...ahh a woman with a passionete mind ..I ponder for a second then glance at my advisor he is scowling again, but he grins for just a second perhaps he will find a smile in the comley maiden before him. I motion to my steward and whisper to him to get a message to The servers and to Rando to 'spice' up the wine....all of it for this evening...in fact why not 'spice' up the food as well..the last time we added that much the party lasted for days. I sit back and smile at the Vision to my side I raise my glass and toast to our queen and our land both are blooming and grace us with light. I greet my guests and bid them make merry or face my exchequer....

 

[Stirling]

Prince Llwyd

I fling open the doors of the feasting hall and push my way through the crowd, towering overhead.

An itinerant Welsh prince, I lives with my hosts as an ambassador, though some whisper I only fled here after it was proclaimed I would hang if I ever pressed my claim on the Welsh crown. Regardless, I've become a fixture at Maximilian's court for several years now, winning the king's confidence and the queen's indulgence with my traditional stories and songs.

Sandy red hair falls in long locks around my broad shoulders, while green eyes dance over an aquiline nose, overlooking a gaunt if still athletic, inordinately tall six foot frame. My gilt harp is never far from my side, nor is my dirk, and it's whispered in the kitchens I know several dire spells.

I wake my way past a thicket of nobles, stop to gaze approvingly at a scantily-clad Moorish dancing girl, then continue to the highest table, where I am expected. I bow deeply to King Maximilian, then take Queen Ana's hand and kiss it most sensually with parted lips, but not in such a way that her husband would notice. I wink at her, and her exquisite sister.

"Prince Llywd, at your service."

 

[Merelan]

Katherine:

It is all the same, over and over. Though Rando is feistier thenusual tonight, I suspect with the King's permission.
When Magenta started her dance I was struck. Such a lovely creature, so tempting and fresh. Again I sat back, simply sipping at my wine, trying to ignore the chatter of my escort, while watching the underplay, the subtle moves. That serving wench, what was her name? I seem to remember something.
Yes, she was the one they had called in to help my husband, when the offical men could do nothing. Either had she. But what was she doing here? One to watch, one to be wary of.
My sister smiled down at me, her eyes tired, her smile not as bright as it once was. I missed the days when we had grown together, wrapped in each other nothing else had mattered. Losing our parents early had only brought us closer. It was only my love for her that made me attend these dismal dinners.
Then I also chose to watch Thor, for many reasons. He was incredibly attractive, rumoured to be powerful in bed as he was out of it. Too powerrful by far. My brother-in-law was young, unwise at times. Only with Thor's timely interferance had we stayed out of conflicts that would have proven too costly. Then again, I wondered, was Thor happy with what he had? Perhaps I should ask his advice on a new Overseer of my estaes. The last being too old to continue, and having no sons living to pass it too.
Then that spanish madrigal caught my eye, as he had last time. He was so exotic, so dark, in looks and manner. His eyes often upon me, weighing me, to see if I was worthy. But of what? And how dare he?
Suddenly we were interuppted, as Prince Llywd made his entrance. He was obnoxious at times, but a welcome relief Catering to the King's every whim. I had my suspicions he had his eye on the Quen, I saw the way he looked at her. Who could blame him? She was so beautiful, fair and radiant. Sighing I was drawn back into conversation with my escort.
He was not feeling well, odd and lightheaded and wished to be excused.
"Of course. May you find better health soon." Dirty sop. He was going to find better help in the arms of a serving girl, I had seen them signal. But I was free now. Free to watch and wonder. My favorite sport.

 

[Earthgoddess]

Fear flashed through me, what if he saw the vial-I dared stare directly into his eyes. He was a fine specimen, and without a scowl he would have been dangerously handsome. My wrist bones grated against each other as I twisted slightly.
"Many pardon's milord, forgive the clumsiness." I spoke softly hoping to avoid his attentions.
The hot crowded hall made me nervous, I was a healer not a servant and my skills lay not in the negotiations of such a feast. Clandestine matters were not for the likes of me, and the hand clamping firmly upon my wrist reminded me that I was not in a safe place at all. I attempted a subserviant bow and lowered my eyes. I struggled slightly to release myself, hoping he would caste me off, and not draw anymore attention to me.
The Queen's sister and others of the court had called for me when the learned doctors had failed. Cures and miracles were not mine to give, but often release from pain and suffering were enough. Tinctures and herbs were my specialities, the magic wrought of Nature not of witchcraft. Yet still my kind were always in danger, too easy to blame the wise woman if a calf died or the plague came. This gruff and loud man was drawing too much attention to me, and he was proving to great a distraction, I loved the power in his grip, and his throaty voice.
I looked at his face and tried to plead with him to release me,
"Good Sir, I do beseech you, please allow me to inish my duties."

 

[Make_My_Day]

Queen Ana

The Welsh prince. Llywd barges in.. making an entrance as always. When he kisses my hand, winking to me and my sister, I instantly blush. Dropping my eyes to the floor in a shy smile.
I do not dare to look into his beautiful green eyes.. especially after what my dear sister whispered in my ear one day.. stories about his sexual adventures.. how he had left woman breathless. Occasionally as much as eight a night..

The shameless flirting.. the meaningful looks crossing the room.. the attractive, bold men and the mischievous, fiery twinkle in their eyes.. it all evokes feelings inside of me, unfamiliar to me.

At night, after my dear husband would have fallen asleep, drunk and saturated, I would return to my own quarters and the feelings would form images in my mind.
Images I would never discuss with anyone..
Images that have become a whole world of their own. My private kingdom filled with passion, filled with unspeakable actions, a kingdom visited by at least every man in this room..
.. except for the new minstrel I just noticed.. playing.. his long slim fingers manipulating the strings..
I shiver..

 

[LittleRedDevil]

I moved from my seat, knowing I must persent myself to the royal couple. Maybe I could help the servant caught in the grasp of Thor. I waited patiently, smirking a little at Prince What's-his-name. I didn't come to court much, but knew he held a permanant place in the King's presence.

I bowed low to the Queen's sister. A beautiful woman who seemed to miss her husband so. "My Lady." I smiled at her softly. I moved on, looking at the King and Queen. They were magnifacent as individuals, but together, they seemed larger than life. I had been present for the wedding, and my eyes had shone with stars that day. At the handsome king and his Queen, who held the color of the moon in her hair.

"Your Majesties." I dropped into a much practiced throne room curtsey befitting of the royal couple.

 

[Make_My_Day]

Queen Ana

Then the young Glorianna of Perth appears before us, and bows. I have been told she is as fond of books as I am. I would love to show her my library one day. Share stories, talk about our favourite writers..
I had always looked upon her as a girl, the daughter of the Duke and Duchess, but tonight, in her magnificent velvet dress.. she is a woman and to say the least, she has become quite a beautiful young woman. From the corner of my eye I can see the smile on Maximilian’s face.. he has come to the same conclusion.

 

[Inkubus]

King Maximilian

I gaze into the eyes of the young prince and watch as they rove. If it is whispred that my advisor wears hunger like a cloak then this prince wears it like a badge. I smile as at least he supplies endless fodder for the gossip and as of late brings intrigue to the court. Next we are greeted by the Lovely Gloriana, by the gods she is no girl anymore... the face of a angel but eyes like a sentinel...this one is wise besides beautiful. I smile at her and make note that this lovely enigma should be studied at a later date.

 

[intriguess]

Magenta

a short wrap of shimmery gold covers my full hips hiding as much as it reveals a golden bra sparkles with the light as I use my last scarf to caress my body watching as some stumbled off into the night, the crowd thinned to those who could hold their liquor or knew how to drink wisely. Dessert, plum pudding, I watched as they set it on fire.

 

[doctor_insanus]

Rando the Ridiculous

I made my way through the crowd, grabbing the occasional wineglass... and slipping a little "extra" something into it. The King had approved, to his credit. We needed to do something to loosen this crowd up!

Speaken of loosening up, I saw Thor getting a little rough with the poor serving wench. What a guy!

Prancing over to him, I began to sing:

"Lords and ladies - the mighty Thor!
Tall and proud - a true man of war!
But drop a bird upon the floor
You'll feel his wrath, and that's for sure!"

I kissed him on the cheek, and patted him on the back.

"My lord, if you wanted a dance, all you had to do was ask!"

 

[Merelan]

Katherine:
The rage is unmistakable in Thor's eyes as Rando teases him. Though he hides it behind a courtly bow. I choose to interrupt.
"Rando, dear. You must repeat that delicious bit of gossip you heard about Lady Hattle and her sister. It is just too funny." Hoping the nonsense would give Thor time to calm. Walking to them as I spoke, and laying a hand on Thor's arm, causing him to drop the wenchs. What was her name?
"You girl. Go on with your work, and pay better attention." Dismissing her with a glance.

 

[Earthgoddess]

Grateful I back away and turn to head into the kitchen, my wrist throbbing from his assault. I am lightheaded from the panic and my blood hums in my veins. I lean into a darkened corner glad for the respite.

 

[doctor_insanus]

Rando the Ridiculous

"...so then Lady Hattle says, 'It took me three days to find it, but I did get a diamond ring out of the deal!'"

Looking out over the audience, waiting for a response. Anything?

Hmmm... drastic measures may be required with this bunch!

 

[intriguess]

Magenta

I was glad I wasn't drinking, as i saw the jester slip something into various goblets and ewers. The singers were singing more romantic tunes, while the minstrels were spinning out baudy tunes. I whirled and spinned to music as I slide between tables returning to center stage dancing for the royal table.

 

[Make_My_Day]

Queen Ana

The wine.. It’s getting to my head..
The laughter.. the music.. Magenta..
It’s all mingled into one fuzzy humming and moving colours..
I am aware of the fact that my heartbeat speeds up, staying in tune with music, which slowly accelerating..
My husband must be drooling right now seeing Magenta moving her sensual body in a hypnotic manner before him, but I am unable to watch for I am unable to take my eyes of Thor..

Oh.. how dangerous a man he is, how thrilling a man he is..
I locked my eyes upon him the moment he furiously grabbed the wrist of poor Elspeth.. my heart missed a beat when I saw the fire in his eyes.
As my sister intervened, saving the woman who had so wonderfully taken are of her late husband, I watched, but oblivious to the situation.
My fingertips gently stroke the base of my neck as in my minds eye, he.. Thor.. holds me tight, one arm wrapped around my waist, one hand holding the back of my head as he would kiss my neck.
I would resist of course, always faithful to Maximilian.. but then again.. this happened in my kingdom.. the kingdom I had created in my fantasy..

My mind drifts. My respiration deep and fast, my fingertips touch my lips.. shocked, suddenly, as my sister turns to look over her shoulder and looks me straight in the eyes.. My eyes turn to the floor. Embarrassed. Could she know?
She could always read me.. she always knew what I was thinking..

 

[Stirling]

Llwyd

The Lady Glorianna of Perth has just presented herself to the royal couple, curtsying most prettily, and now stands at the head table unescorted and looking a bit adrift, like someone more at home in a library than a royal feast. Immediately I rise, bowing at the waist to the beautiful but shy young woman in purple silk, and offer her my own seat at the head of the table. She accepts shyly, and holds my hand softly as I help her be seated. As she blushes, I wink at her merrily, and press my lips firmly to her hands before letting them go. What a wonderful surprise, I think to myself, making a note to visit the library once in a while.

Standing behind the chairs now, I glance about the room. Young Queen Ana is staring discreetly as the King's hulking Viking advisor, as she often does. I smile. Then there's a change in the music and the gypsy dancing girl floats by, now wearing little more than sashes. I can't help but watch entranced, my fingers moving to my harp involuntarily, and I can feel myself stiffening beneath my doublet and can only hope the darkness hides the bulge in my hose, at least a little. I'm over-endowed for these kind of courtly fashions, and even the slightest arousal stretches painfully these blasted courtier tights.

A moment later and Lady Merelan returns to her seat, having solved some minor altercation involving a servant. I bow courteously to her, holding out her chair too and pushing it back in as she takes her seat. But as she resumes her place at the high table I trace a finger across the back of her neck, tickling the nape of it. She shivers involuntarily, looking at me. I smile, gesturing at the empty seat between her and the Lady Glorianna, where Merelan's escort had been sitting until recently. "With your leave?" I ask, gesturing at the empty seat.

 

[Inkubus]

King Maximilian

I Laugh a resounding baritone as I listen to Rando race along the gossip and lace it with song and smile, I drink deeply of the wine, and Gloriana's visage,when all of a sudden my will is ripped from me...The magic of lust ensorcels me as I watch the exotic goddes Magenta weave her spell. I Will myself not to drool..I am a King and not a pup .. but as she glides before us...I sigh. It is good to be the king.