Royal Machinations

[marauder13]

William was not so self absorbed that he missed the approach of Jane. It warmed him a little to see her approaching. He was looking forward to spending a little time with her, sitting and talking comfortably with the young noble woman. He smiled warmly as she came to a stop, curtseying before him gracefully.

Jane's arm extended the remains of a loaf of bread. "Your majesty, would you care to help me feed the swans?" He could feel the warmth in her voice as she made the offer.

"As long as you sit beside me, and share some delightful conversation with me." He took the offered bread, tearing off a small chuck and placing the remains of the loaf between them. He picked off small pieces, absently throwing them into the pond.

"The Queen has taken a liking to you, I have seen. I am happy for that. You will meet a great many personages of prominence through her. Hopefully, most of them will be useful to you. In a good way at least. The rest will show you what to look out for." He threw more bread out for the swan that took up station before them.

"There is something that I should warn you of, Jane. Many people will seek to either gain your favour due to our newly forming friendship, or seek to cast your name in a bad light because of that very friendship. There will be those of the Court that will think that we are lovers of some sort, and will seek to gain advantage from it. That is the reason I am speaking to you here, like this. It is better that we are seen publicly where we can't get up to any mischief."

William looked over at Jane, his expression fading a little. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have spoken like that. How are you this morning? Has your father managed to find a suitable husband for you yet? Or is that a subject that should be left alone for now?

"Please, disclose your mind to me on any matter that has appeal. Let's not get too caught up in dreary topics, if possible."

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane took the proferred seat beside the King on the bench. They took turns throwing the bread at the swans. Jane smiled at the King, she watched as with each breath and each toss of bread he seemed to become more at ease.

"There is quite a celebration being planned in honor of your birthday. The Queen very graciously asked me to help. It seems we are going to feast on the most sumptious foods and drink the sweetest wines." Jane paused for a moment. She started to speak several times, but stopped with her forehead furrowed.

"Your Majesty, I think I overstepped today and offended the Queen." Jane explained how each lady invited to the Masque was being asked to come dressed as an assigned flower. "The Queen said she was coming as the lily because white becomes her. I forgot my place and told her she should dress as the rose of Lyoness."

Jane was worried the King would be displeased with her, so she just kept talking.

"As for the husband matter, I don't think my father is offering my hand for sale until the night of the Masque." She groaned softly.

"I am being a horrible companion. You just asked to talk about something that isn't dreary and all I have done is moan about my mistakes and my marriage prospects. I came out here to forget about all of that."

Jane looked up at William, her eyes meeting his. "I love this garden. It is so beautiful but that isn't the only reason I came. I hoped you would be here. I know that others may think that I am throwing myself at you, or trying to gain favor for my family, but I do really think of you as my friend, your Majesty."

Jane felt herself blushing and she had to lower her eyes. She looked down at her hands. She chided herself for yammering on. When would she ever learn to think before she spoke?

 

[marauder13]

He found Jane's company to be relaxing. He knew that there wasn't any hidden agendas with her, and he didn't have to guard himself too much with her. It might have been a foolish thing for him to do, as she could easily repeat anything that they spoke of, but deep down, he felt he could trust her, and he would take the gamble. But he found it so refreshing to be able to open up and just talk to someone. Even Richard Greyhelm didn't make him feel as at ease, and he was a man that William trusted with his life.

"There is quite a celebration being planned in honor of your birthday. The Queen very graciously asked me to help. It seems we are going to feast on the most sumptuous foods and drink the sweetest wines."

"Yes, if there is one thing that Marielle can do, she can plan and give an excellent party, for whatever occasion. I am glad that she asked for your help. It will be a good to see how she does it, and learn a trick or two for when you host your own social events."

William listened to Jane as she spoke of her faux pas with the Queen over her choice of flower. "Never mind, Jane. Marielle is rather sensitive about her heritage and the views of the people concerning her homeland. No amount of suggesting to her to embrace some of her new homeland's customs has been taken up. But don't concern yourself too much, Marielle knows you are new, and you will make some mistakes. The Good Lord knows I still make mistakes from time to time, so don't fret over it too much."

William eased back onto the bench, looking up into the sky. "Flowers. What a novel idea. To be surrounded by beauty honouring the colourful gifts of the garden." William chuckled slightly. "Yes, Marielle is good at these matters."

William caught the flicker of Jane's expression, noting the less than happy feel to it.

"As for the husband matter, I don't think my father is offering my hand for sale until the night of the Masque.

"I am being a horrible companion. You just asked to talk about something that isn't dreary and all I have done is moan about my mistakes and my marriage prospects. I came out here to forget about all of that."

"A horrible companion? Hardly." He stopped himself form talking when Jane looked at him. He sensed that if he stopped her, she would not continue to ease her mind by speaking to him.

"I love this garden. It is so beautiful but that isn't the only reason I came. I hoped you would be here. I know that others may think that I am throwing myself at you, or trying to gain favor for my family, but I do really think of you as my friend, your Majesty."

Again, he youth and innocence came to the fore in the form of the rosiness of her cheeks, and the way she glanced down. William saw the torment that was afflicting the young woman. He saw a person who wanted to be a friend, but was mindful of their ranks and stations in life. She couldn't easily remove his title from him when they sat together like the were.

William reached out and took one of Jane's hands, holding it in a purely friendly gesture. "Jane, the truest value of a friend is being able to sit and listen to someone as they speak of hurts and troubles. You are not speaking to the King of Lyonesse right now, you are talking to William. He is interested in knowing how you are feeling, even if you are not happy. Talking about what ills you helps.

"Now, while we are sitting here, you will call me William, and not address me by title or rank. We are friends. Just think about this, Jane. You are the only person that I feel completely at ease with. Every other person I speak to regularly, I feel I have to guard what I say. When we are alone," William cast a glance at one of his bodyguards loitering just far enough away to not be able to hear the conversation, but still close enough to rush to his aid if needed, "you can speak freely about anything that you wish.

"Also, your father had better remember to speak to me before he goes making any commitments concerning who will marry you. It would not go well for him to be publicly embarrassed by retracting such a declaration."

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane cut her eyes over to the King’s private guard. She noted that he was well skilled at looking at if he weren’t paying attention. She squeased William’s hand. Her heart fluttered. She watched the swans gracefully swim in figure eights. The sun was warm on her skin and the breeze carried the fragrance of the flowers had admired the night of the picnic.

“Your Majest… I mean William, the only time since I have been at court that I haven’t been at a loss, was during our dance. Abigail is always correcting me, my father has been angry with me and I am not sure why, but he is very upset and worried. He has been having meetings and even sold off some of his favorite horses.” She paused for a moment taking a breath so deep it made her shoulders raise. She looked at William, her big brown eyes wide with emotion. “He accused me of conniving to get my way. He has never been distrustful of me before. I just feel as if I am failing him as a daughter, but I am not sure what he evens wants from me.”

Jane shook her head blinking hard, attempting to forget her feelings. “I don’t understand why I am telling you about this. “ She laid her other hand over his.

“Enough about me. William, what do you want for your birthday? Everyone is to bring a gift to the masque. “ Jane’s smile lit up her face and there was a trace of laughter in her voice. “I don’t have the riches to give you something impressive but there must be something… something that would make you happy.”

As Jane turned toward William, the light caught the glimmering green stones of the brooch she was wearing. The delicate green leaf that Marielle had given to Jane had once been a gift to her from William.

 

[marauder13]

William was enjoying the chance to just relax and enjoy some time away from running his Kingdom. That he also had the chance to build a new friendship at the same time made it even better. he felt the momentary pressure of Jane's hand in his, which gave him a warm feeling. She was trusting him, and seeking reassurance from him.

“Your Majest… I mean William, the only time since I have been at court that I haven’t been at a loss, was during our dance. Abigail is always correcting me, my father has been angry with me and I am not sure why, but he is very upset and worried. He has been having meetings and even sold off some of his favorite horses.”

He was about to speak when he saw her take a deep breath. Along with the rise of her shoulders, her bust filled the bodice of her dress in a most unsettling manner. While he would freely admit that Jane was indeed a rather attractive woman, he had not taken much notice of her womanly qualities before that reminder.

“He accused me of conniving to get my way. He has never been distrustful of me before. I just feel as if I am failing him as a daughter, but I am not sure what he evens wants from me.”

William was surprised at her declaration, and the implications that it held. She was a recent introduction to the Court, and she was still to make her mark. He could tell she was inexperienced in these new social circles, so her father's accusations did not make much sense to him.

“I don’t understand why I am telling you about this.

“Enough about me. William, what do you want for your birthday? Everyone is to bring a gift to the masque. I don’t have the riches to give you something impressive but there must be something… something that would make you happy.”

William basked in the radiance of Jane's smile. Again, he lack of experience with the Court worked in her favour, allowing the natural delight to show through, rather than a filtered or possibly fake response.

"Well, Jane, you're telling me these things because you feel that I can be trusted, and that I am not involved with what is happening to you. Abigail is merely trying to help you fit into the Court. She is focusing on what you're doing wrong, to help you reduce the number of mistakes you make. I am sure that she has the best intentions in her heart, so don't worry about it too greatly.

"Now, as to your father's anger with you, I fear that I may have been one possible cause. I have informed him that I have taken an interest in who your future husband will be, and I think he feels that you may have exchanged a favour with me to help you control your own destiny.

"What he wants from you, Jane, is for your marriage to boost your family's overall position in Court. The marriage will form a new alliance, and that alliance will impact on the Larrimore family as much as it will the family of your husband. He is using you just as the fathers of your sisters-in-law have done."

William adjust his position to allow him to more directly face Jane. "As for my birthday, what I would like is a gift that will remind me of you. You are a rare woman, Jane. You are a refreshing breeze for me. Most of the people about have become stale and stuffy. You are fresh, alive and natural. Yes, something that reminds me of you."

William caught the reflection of the light off the brooch. With his free hand, he reached out to touch and lift it slightly.

"You have indeed won some favour from Marielle. It is good to see that it continues to bring joy to the wearer. When it was announced that we were to wed, I gave her that on one of my visits to see her. She had nothing like it at the time, and she favoured it as her way of demonstrating her acceptance of her betrothal. Of course, since then she has gathered many pieces of jewelry, and has probably forgotten about its significance." The hand that touched the brooch was lifted to forestall the words that he knew were about to leave Jane's mouth. "No, you will not return it, nor stop wearing it. Marielle gave it to you, as a gift, so you will treat is so. Plus, I think that it suits you."

He turned himself so he was more comfortable, still maintaining his hold of Jane's hand. "Court isn't that bad, once you know what to do. I know you will learn quickly, but don't take too much to heart from those close to you." He turned his head to look straight at Jane's eyes. "If you feel the need, you are more than welcome to seek a private audience. Not that it would be private in the true sense of the word, but we could hold a conversation such as this with little fear of being overheard or disturbed. No, I have a better idea. I will start setting aside time like this for my relaxation. You are permitted to come and join me at those times. There will be others with similar invitations, so you may not get me totally alone. But again, it will be safe enough that your honour and reputation will remain intact."

William raised Jane's hand, letting his lips brush her knuckles lightly. "Consider this my gift to my newest friend."

 

[wideeyedone]

When William brushed his lips against her knuckles, Jane felt an unfamiliar warmth travel down her spine. Her eyes caught his and she couldn't help but smiling. Just seeing his gentle gaze made her feel better.

"I will come seek you in this garden." Her smile going all the way to her eyes. She smoothed her hair back with her free hand and looked out upon the swans. "However, I promise next time we can talk about other things. I would like to hear what is on your mind as well, I mean, the things you can talk about."

The swans were lazily floating almost as if someone had planned a performance for the on lookers. Jane watched and relaxed and from time to time would cut her eyes to look at the King. She loved the peaceful expression on his face and hoped she helped to give it to him. She lingered beside him in the garden for as long as she felt like she could. She didn't want Abigail or her father to come looking for her.

"Your majesty, I mean William, I should go. My father will be expecting me and I see no reason to draw his attention to our friendship. I would be so ashamed if he tried to use it to his advantage." She squeased his hand one last time and then stood and curtseyed. She calmly walked out the garden and thanked the royal guard when he opened the gate for her.


The following few days were spent with Abigail and Jane at the mercy of the dressmaker. The seamstress was remaking old gowns into new ones, so when Abigail was attending the Queen, Jane was being stabbed with pins and made to stand still. Jane found herself a little sad that her emerald green satin dress was being changed, she rather liked it and it was the dress she had worn the night she met William.

Her father had directed the seamstress to lower the neckline and adorn the decollate with the small velvet violets she had constructed. The violets would also be added in small bunches to the voluminous skirt. Jane did her best to stand still for the fittings. She felt ridiculous in the costume, but she knew all the ladies would be wearing such things. Her feelings changed though when the seamstress handed her her mask. It was beautiful. The mask was almost the shape of a butterfly and it had been made in the most lovely glimmering shades of deep purple and then lavendar. The mask was expertly designed. When she put in on it drew attention to the apples of her cheeks and her dark eyes.

"Milady, you will have to wear your hair off of your face with such a large mask." The woman chided. Jane nodded but she found herself hoping that the King... William would ask her to dance. When she was free from the dressmaker and her father, Jane curled up on her bed with her own needles and silken thread. She had found the palest green linen and cut a square from it. First, she stiched gold thread around the edges, so the cloth would not unravel. She chose a whip stictch, she didn't want it to be too feminine. She worked when ever she had a free moment and hid it under her pillow when she heard anyone coming to her chamber.

Abigail's daffodil dress was proving more difficult than Jane's violet transformation, so much to Jane's delight a few days later, she was able to steal away to the garden. She made her usual stop to the kitchen for a loaf of bread and she asked for two apples as well. There were a few other people in the garden, a man that Jane did not know but he was a hulking fellow with a scar. She was surprised that the guard remembered her name and invited her inside.

She felt herself smiling from in the inside out when she saw William look at her. She dropped into a formal curtsey and lowered her eyes.

"Good day, your Majesty. I have just brought a feast for your swans."

 

[marauder13]

William basked in the simple glory of her true and honest reactions to him. He saw that his polite kiss of her hand effected her greatly, as he suspected she would when gifted by her king in such a way.

"I will come seek you in this garden. However, I promise next time we can talk about other things. I would like to hear what is on your mind as well, I mean, the things you can talk about."

That she corrected her appearance caught him a little by surprise, but he put it down to her nerves. She was still adjusting to being so close to the King, and old ingrained habits would surely take time and effort to remove.

"Your majesty, I mean William, I should go. My father will be expecting me and I see no reason to draw his attention to our friendship. I would be so ashamed if he tried to use it to his advantage."

"And I would not want to be the source of concern for your father and other family members." William rose as Jane did, returning her curtsey with a polite bow of his own. He waited a polite period before seating himself again. He watched the retreating form of Jane with interest. Her dress suited her, and with her plain, open manner, the dress complimented her appearance well.

"It will be the most fortunate of men that manage to have her for a wife, even more fortunate if they are able to win her heart as well."

The affairs of state kept him busy over the next few days. William had received disturbing news concerning Umbria, and the recent change in rulers there. There had been members of the Umbrian Royal Family that didn't like Lyonesse, and were not afraid to make their feelings known. The old King had died, and there were rumours that the heir, who supported his father's direction, was also dead. This would mean a great shift in the political alliances he had built up in preparation for his divorcing of Queen Marielle. He needed someone to side with Lyonesse if Selecuia went to war with them. Umbria's change might well see them side with Selucia in a war, which would be disastrous for William's Kingdom. The days where he tackled with the growing dilemma left him drained and short of temper.


William managed to find some time to sit quietly in the garden. The first missive from the new Umbrian King sounded somewhat off. It was formal, and had all the right words in the right places, yet something about it just didn't fee right. William decided that he needed some air to clear his head, and the sun to remove the chill in his bones. He watched a few of the Court out of the corner of his eye, waiting for them to come over and break his peace.

But that changed when he saw Jane walk into view. He turned to look at Jane. He found himself eager to spend some more time with her, even just the quiet talking that they had both been enjoying. Demure and courteous as always, she curtseyed to him before taking the last step towards the bench.

"Good day, your Majesty. I have just brought a feast for your swans."

"Hello Jane. Please be seated. It is not only just the swans who are getting spoiled this day. As always, it is a pleasure to see you again, Jane."

William waited for her to settle, then started to help feed the swan that had associated food with Jane. The small pieces of bread left his hand, arcing lazily through the air before landing on the water's surface. The swan wasted little time in letting the morsel float before him.

"You wanted to know what was on my mind when you were last here, Jane. Well, I must be honest and tell you that I have been looking forward to spending time with you again. I find your presence to be relaxing and calming for me. The times we have spoken have left me feeling more alive than I did before having the talk. I enjoy the chance to be myself, and not put forward some facade that being in Court requires.

"On top of all of that, there are several matters of state that are causing me some trouble, most of them external thankfully. Those that are internal in nature need... well... delicate maneuvering to ensure the best outcome.' William snorted a short laugh. "Here am I now lumbering you with my issues, rather than spending time with a good friend. Plus, I wouldn't want to bore you with matters of state, since they bore me immensely too."

William looked to Jane, smiling broadly and feeling very relaxed. "Are the preparations for my birthday celebrations going well? In general or specifically concerning yourself." He leaned over a little. "I do hope you are looking forward to coming. Because I am looking forward to your being there. I'll have at least one dance where I can actually relax and enjoy myself." He straightened up, grabbing some more bread to feed the swan. I am also glad that you were able to come here, today. Your company is refreshing and relaxing. I'm surprised just how much I have missed it since you arrived at court." Pieces of bread arced through the air once more toward the grateful swan.

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane smiled at William as she watched him feed the pair of swans. She found herself watching his face as he spoke. She loved the warmth of his voice and the way his smile went all the way up to his eyes. She couldn't help but smile when he asked about his birthday celebration.

"Abigail and I have been spending almost every daylight hour with the dressmaker. I am sworn to secrecy about who might be what flower, but Abigail's dress is taking more work than mine." She touched his hand, squeezed it lightly. "I love my mask. I never thought I would enjoy wearing something so elaborate but it is beautiful."

Jane looked around the garden for a moment. "William, I hope to dance with you again at the celebration. The Queen has ordered the musicians to fill the room with your favorite songs and all of the dances of Lyoness." There was no more bread. Jane offered William one of her apples and began to eat the other herself.

"I have your gift selected, but I am not going to tell you what it is until your birthday." She leant against him just a little, her arm pressing against his, her breast rubbing against him lightly.

Dusk was starting to fall. Jane stood and curtseyed. "Your Majesty, I need to go. I have to sit for Abigail so she can practice fixing my hair." Jane made a face and then smiled before exiting the garden. The guard opened the gate for her.

Jane rushed back to her family's apartment.She saw Gregory Fowler leaving. He looked over at her and smiled and then turned the other way storming down the corridor. Jane let herself into the chamber and while she was met with voices, as soon as they saw her, her brother, Abigail and her father were silent.

Abigail took command of the moment. "Jane, you are late. We need to work on your hair and your dress is finished. We need to see it on you."

Jane sighed deeply. She wanted to tell them that she had seen the Duke. She wanted to tell them that she was not in the mood to be evaluated. But she looked at her father and saw the worry and anxiety on his face. She didn't want to upset him. She kissed his cheek and then let Abigail take her into the other room to practice primping and to make sure her dress fit her perfectly.

Jane filled the next few days with her needlework and meetings with the Queen. Marielle taught her how to supervise the kitchen and how to instruct the musicians and the maids decorating the hall. The day of the celebration she was sent back to the apartment to get ready.

Abigail was already ready. Her golden dress was layered with silk daffodils and green satin leaves. She wore a pendant with a jeweled honey bee on it. Her hair had a crown of daffodils and her mask was yellow. Jane was a bit taken aback at the transformation.

Abigail laced Jane into her gown. The green satin clung to her skin and Jane felt as if her breasts were going to spill out of the dress. Abigail twisted and pinned her hair up, until her neck was bare. Then it was time for the mask. Abigail tied the mask on and then showed Jane her reflection in the glass.

"Sister, you look magnificent. And so grown up. I am sure the suitors will be lining up to dance with you, this evening."

Jane couldn't help but smile. She looked like a princess of the garden with the velvet violets at her waistline and her decollete. Jane waited until Abigail wasn't looking and she tucked William's gift into the sleeve of her dress, so no one would see it.

Her father escorted her to the celebration. The room was already swelling with music and the finest wine was being passed. Jane scanned the room looking for William, the men were wearing masks as well, but she knew she would know him. She saw him talking to Lord Markham. She had to smile, she would recognize him anywhere.

 

[marauder13]

William contently listened to Jane talking about the preparations for the party. He was not so interested in what she was saying, but how she was saying it. He felt the joy and excitement in her voice, and he allowed himself to be enfolded in those emotions. It made him wonder how he became so jaded about the life he led in court. He decided that he would befriend new comers to the court, and let them remind him of the true splendors of the Court.

The time raced by them both, slowing only when Jane leant a little closer to him that normal, and he felt the passage of one of Jane's breasts against his arm. Even through the multitudes of cloth, it was a deeply appealing moment that seemed to etch into his mind. He found it delightful, rather than arousing, mainly due to the innocent manner under which it occurred. With other women, he might have seen it as a deliberate move to engage is attention further, but with Jane, it was merely an accidental movement, most likely one that she was not even aware of occurring. But the light was dimming, and Jane bid farewell to William.

"Your Majesty, I need to go. I have to sit for Abigail so she can practice fixing my hair."

William bowed warmly in return, watching Jane retire from the garden. He waited a few minutes, replaying the conversation in his mind before he too retired to his chambers.

The remaining days before his birthday were one filled with a good tension. Preparations were made for the celebration. As had become a tradition in recent years, William, through Duke Markham, had several families brought to the castle for a meal on the morning of the King's birthday. While it was not of the same quality as the food to be eaten at His Majesty's party, it was a much better fare than they would normal receive. In addition, each family received the equivalent of a Gold Crown in silver and bronze coins. With proper spending, the money would last them a year, and see them through the worst of times.

During the day, William prepared for the Masque his wife had prepared, genuinely looking forward to it for more than one reason. Marielle planned, and hosted parties that William adored. She seemed to have the touch to make them work, and have everyone enjoy them. At first, he thought that was because she was the Queen, but it took little time to determine that it was because of the party itself, not the person throwing it.

When he arrived, he was in awe of the efforts of the ladies to dress in the theme of a flower. No two women represented the same flower, and there was little error in determining which flower the lady was. Each of the men was also exquisitely dressed, managing to stand out in their own right, but somehow not taking anything away from the ladies. He saw Marielle enter, her choice of flower was no surprise to him. But, between her ladies in waiting and the seamstress, she was gorgeous. He was taken aback at how good his wife looked, even with her lovely face hidden behind a mask. When she saw him, she smiled in a way that he felt disappointed that the mask hid so much of her face. He imagined that the smile had lit up her entire face.

It wasn't that difficult to figure out who William was. he walked about the hall, as if he owned the room. People bowed to him, or curtseyed, all of which he accepted gracefully. Time was allocated for general mingling, allowing everyone to take the time to view the costumes of the other party goers, and to generally unwind a little before the festivities started. William had spoken to the leader of the orchestra, and informed him of the first piece of music to be played for the first dance.

When the music started, it signaled to everyone that a dance would commence, and there was a mass movement as people sought out their preferred partners for the initial dance. William went straight to Marielle, offering his hand to her without a word being said. He saw the look of pleasure following the initial look of surprise. But that was nothing compared to the full body shock when the music of the dance commenced.

The old strains of a Selucid waltz filled the room with the soft and gentle tones. William led Marielle into the dance, and others followed after a suitable interval. The question in Marielle's eyes was answered with a single nod from William, which brought a smile to his wife's eyes. They floated across the floor, Marielle following his lead perfectly, and William managed to remember all the moves without fail. With the completion of the dance, William stopped Marielle from curtseying to him, instead he bowed deeply and reverently to his wife. It was his way of thanking her for the wonderful gift.

The first of the local tunes started a few moments later, and William simply chose a partner based on proximity. So when the next three dances. His next partner was chosen from those who stood nearest to him when the next dance was due to start. Each dance saw the King relaxed, and enjoying the company of which ever lady he chose to dance with. By the end of the third dance, he retired to have a drink, and stand with his wife.

"I know you had the musicians ready to play Lyonesse music, but I wanted to thank you for this magnificent party you have thrown, my darling wife. I hope you didn't mind." He emptied the glass of wine while watching the dancers flowing by.

"My husband, it was the most delightful way to say thank you. It warmed my heart deeply."

"Then, I will come to you and have you dance with me for one of our kingdom's more formal dances, and show that we are indeed still united, despite our different backgrounds. That, and I really enjoyed the dance with you." William caught the signs of the blush, pleased that he had that effect on her.

"I would be delighted to dance with you again. I will admit, you surprised me at how well you did. I... enjoyed it too."

"Now, if you will excuse me, there are a couple of women who aided you in this that I want to thank by giving them the pleasure of a dance." William departed after Marielle acknowledged him with a nod. William easily found the two ladies he was favouring with a dance. One, he knew from a long association with Marielle, while the other he could pick out by the way she held herself. He approached the daffodil, extending his arm in invitation. It was clear that both women were surprised, but Abigail accepted the offer, and was soon dancing with the King. When the dance was over, William accepted the curtsey from Abigail, and gave her a kiss on the hand. He then took the violet bedecked Jane out on the dance floor for her turn.

William was amazed at the work that went into the dress, as well as the effect of the new cut on her bosom. He allowed himself one gaze of sufficient duration to fully enjoy the display, before returning to the matter of dancing. For William, it felt like they clicked as they moved. Each seemed to know exactly what the other was doing, and when to move, where to place their arms, hands and feet. It allowed him to be amazed at the elegant beauty of his new friend, and how much she shone during the party.

~||~​

Count Jason Armitage was surprised to find himself invited to the Masque, but he was glad that he came. The Ladies of the Court were stunning, and he had little trouble determining which flower each woman represented. He was a little surprised at how he seemed to have a partner nearby whenever he wanted to dance. He enjoyed the company of the various ladies while dancing, always wondering who he had the pleasure of dancing with. But of all the women present, there was one who caught his eye. The violet.

There was something about her that called to him, and he sought her out to gain the favour of a dance. But each time, she was either indisposed, or some other gentleman was escorting her to the dance floor. When the king asked for her to dance, Jason decided to take a break and relax. Whoever she was, he felt that she was not someone who would be interested in someone like him, when she was chosen by the King. He smiled, thinking that the lady concerned was already married if not betrothed.

His eyes followed her around the dance floor, like many others who sat out that dance. But unlike them, he was interested in her, not her potential as a link to the throne. He was entranced by her grace, and the ease that she moved through the dance with His Majesty. He also marveled at her dress, and how it showed off her nearly divine figure while remaining demure enough to not raise too many eyebrows.

The music ceased, and the King walked over to where Jason stood. The closer the violet got, the more in awe of her he got. They were practically standing beside him when His Majesty bade his farewell to his dance partner. Calling on his courage before fate stepped in again, Jason moved to stand before the woman he wanted to know more about. He gave her a polite bow, and extended his arm in the universal, unspoken question of 'Would you like to dance?'

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane allowed herself to enjoy the opulence of the masque. She watched the pomp and circumstance of the King and Queen’s first dance.

“The Queen was right. White does become her.” Jane whispered to Abigail. Abigail nodded. Marielle looked like an angel in her costume of white and gold. Jane found herself holding her breath as Abigail chattered about how pleased the Queen would be and how touching it was that the King had asked for the Selucid waltz to be played. Jane nodded and found herself biting her lip. If someone had asked her she couldn’t have described her feelings or explained them, but she felt her cheeks flush as she watched them, as if she were doing something wrong.

William asked Abigail to dance. Abigail was delighted and Jane was touched by his thoughtfulness. Jane knew that Abigail would talk about getting to dance with the King for weeks. Abigail danced easily with William and Jane couldn’t help but smile. And then she was in her arms. Their dance was full of grace and ease. The dance was familiar to her and she didn’t have to look at her feet even once. For the length of the song she was lost in just the joy of the music and William’s company. Jane found herself wishing that they were back in the garden, just the two of them. But all too soon the song was over. She curtseyed to William with a smile and then before she could catch her breath, a man she hadn’t met stood before her inviting her to dance.

He was handsome and tall and somehow different from all of the others. He seemed to be a stranger at court, just as she was. She gladly accepted. He calmly led her as the music started. He tenderly held her hand in his and placed the other in the small of her back.

“I am Jane Larrimore, Sir. I am afraid that I haven’t met you, or I am being fooled by your mask.” She smiled up at him sweetly. He introduced himself and she was glad to know his name. Jason Armitage. He was dressed more simply than the other gentlemen, but was elegant none the less. She asked about his county and his home. He talked of the lush lands and his tenants. And Jane found herself enjoying his company, she hoped it was the beginning of another friendship.

After their dance, Philip Price was heading toward her. She looked up at Jason and whispered. “Please don’t think me unkind, but I don’t think I can take any more apoligies from this fellow. He and I had a mishap and I would just as soon forget it. Could we linger and talk a bit so that I can enjoy your company and avoid his apoligies.” Her voice was playful and she couldn’t help but laugh. Jason offered her his arm and they strolled to the table where wine the maids were pouring wine. They sipped their wine and exchanged stories of their homes.
****
Gregory Fowler the Duke of Claren, watched the festivities with amusement. He was waiting for his moment. The King was sharing a glass of wine with some of his advisors. Fowler made his move.

“Your Majesty, I need your assistance in a pressing matter.” Fowler whispered to the King. The others expertly turned their attention to other matters. Fowler took a deep breath knowing his decision was a bold one.

“Your Majesty, Richard Larrimore owes me a great deal of money, money he can’t pay back and it is well past due. He has sold off some assets but he has not been able to recover the money. I proposed a marriage between his daughter and me, but you have made that impossible your Majesty. I was wondering if you might either lift this edict or if you can propose another way that Larrimore might pay his debts. I would hate to seize his family lands as he has heirs.” Fowler sneered slightly.

It was a jabbing reminder that the King had no heir of his own. Fowler knew he might upset the King but debts were debts and he was ready to be paid. He rather hoped the King would tire of the whole mess and just allow him to wed young, pretty Jane.

 

[marauder13]

William took to the floor again, with another member of the court. He was going to bestow his favour on women at random. He wanted the gossips and the vultures to have a grand time trying to fathom his reasons for his choice in dance partners.

He spied Jane dancing with another man, someone who he couldn't recognize. he felt a slight jab of jealously, but seeing how much Jane was enjoying the other man's company, it replaced it with genuine happiness. She was looking for a future husband, and if the man she was dancing with was unwed, then he could be a good candidate for her.

He took a break, allowing himself the chance to have a drink and a something to ease the growls of his stomach. Duke Markham wandered over, having finished a dance with a lady who was fanning herself vigorously. William smiled as Markham approached.

"Up to you normal tricks again, Richard?"

"Tricks, Sire? I was merely complimenting the lady on her style of dress. It was most appealing, and flattered her shape very well."

"I'm sure that it did, and I am also sure that you carefully selected your words to reflect how you felt about it."

"Indeed I did, Sire. I did have to wrack my limited knowledge of words to find one adequate enough to express myself properly."

William shook his head. "I am sure that you used the same word on that lady as you did on the various wenches during our travels during the war."

Before Richard could reply, he spotted Fowler starting to come closer. "Sire, you have a visitor. I'll go and fetch us more wine while the two of you speak privately." Richard was gone by the time Fowler had approached.

“Your Majesty, I need your assistance in a pressing matter.”

William listened as Fowler put forward his proposal. William guessed that the elder member of the Court was a crafty fellow, and his news came as no surprise to him.

“...I would hate to seize his family lands as he has heirs.”

William felt the hairs on his neck bristle at the way Fowler mentioned heirs. It took every once of his self control not to strike the man where he stood. But while he was regaining his control, he placed an expression of thoughtfulness on his face.

"My good Lord Claren, I must thank you for bringing this to my attention. But since this is a time for celebration, I would prefer not to turn my mind to such matters right now. I will make time for you in three days time, for us to discuss this matter more fully, and come to an agreement."

Fowler's face darkened for a moment, but returned to the more cheerful disposition. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I am sorry for doing this now, but as you so clearly demonstrated, you are a busy man and I do want this matter closed as soon as possible."

"Of course. We wouldn't want you to suffer for the lassitude of another." William responded to the bow from Fowler, and watched the man walk off with an air of smugness that William looked forward to removing. He didn't have to wait long before Richard returned with more wine for him.

"Fowler seems to have taken the shine off your night, Sire." Richard handed the goblet to William, joining the King in looking at Fowler.

"Yes, and I plan to return the favour. I need you to do something for me. Find Armitage and get him somewhere quiet, preferably outside. It's time for me to pull some feathers from the hawk named Fowler. The young count is just the man to pull it off."

"Ahh... you need someone expendable?"

"Not really. But someone who is not seen as in my favour yet. Of course, if something does happen to the lad, then I have lost little on the way. And if this doesn't work, then I'll just put Fowler's head on the block."

"Not to disagree too much, Sire, but it would help is there are charges you can bring against him. Ones that don't make you seem like a monster."

"Oh, don't worry there. Fowler has done enough to warrant his execution should I need to do it. But he is still useful, which is why I am taking a different path."

"As you wish, Sire. You want to speak with him tonight?"

"Yes, tonight will be the best time. See to it, and let me know when it is done."

~||~​

Jason was enjoying his time with Jane. They were both new to court, and sharing that similarity made it easier to get along with her. He had little idea of who she was, and what her connection to the court was, but he was more than happy to make her friendship.

They had spoken to each other about their backgrounds, which for him included the title he inherited from his father when he was just nineteen years old. He had spent most of his time since getting better at his governance of the County, and finally felt confident enough to leave in order to deal with some pressing matters in the capital.

His delightful time was cut short with the arrival of the Duke of Markham. "Ahhh, my good Count of Balantine. I am needing to have a word with you in private. If you'll excuse us, my lady, but it is pressing business." Richard led the stunned Jason away from the party and outside into the cool nighttime air.

"What matter of business is so pressing to take me away from the King's celebration?"

"I will leave that to His Majesty to explain, since he is the one that requested your presence."

They waited for a few moments before William arrived. "Richard, thank you for your diligence. Now, wait here with me while I explain what I require from our young Count."

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane watched Jason and Markham walk away. Markham looked very serious and Jane said a silent prayer that all was well. She didn't know Jason well, but she hoped that no bad fortune was headed his way.

"My Lady... I am so pleased to find you unattended, you seem to draw nobleman like a flame draws moths." Even with his mask, Jane would recognize Fowler. His voice sent a shiver down her spine. She looked up at him knowing that her mask would not hide the flush of annoyance and anger on her cheeks.

"My Lord." She answered coolly. She scanned the crowd for a familiar face or form, but all she saw was a sea of strangers. Fowler held his hand out to her, asking her to dance. She wanted to refuse, but it was just a dance and perhaps, by the time the music ended, she would be asked to dance again by the King or by Jason.

She stiffly gave Fowler her hand. He lead her to the dancefloor. The music was lively, but the dance was not one where partners were traded. She had no choice but to face him.

"My dear, I think your father has not told you all that you need to know. He owes me a great deal of money, a debt he can't repay. He has sold some of his assets and he has called in all of his markers, and yet, he still can not even begin to cover what he owes." He watched her face for a moment. She had to blink back tears as she thought of the last few weeks, her father's anger, the whispers and his sale of his horses.

"My father must have a reason for not wanting me to know, my lord. I will not go against his wishes." Her voice quavered as she held her head high, trying to not look away from Fowler's hard eyes.

"You have spirit, Jane. And I am going to enjoy breaking that spirit. You see, I am willing to forgive your father's debt in exchange for your hand. I know the King has forbade it but I am working on that. You don't want me to crush your father, Jane. I will decimate the estate and your brother's inheritance. The Larrimore's will be paupers." His hand curled like talons almost crushing her fingers. A whimper escaped her lips and he smiled cruelly. "You get your friend the King to fix this, or I will destroy your father."

Jane stammered but was not able to make a reply. She found herself struggling to breathe as she imagined being Fowler's wife. It took all of her will to finish the dance but as soon as the music ended she gave a quick curtsy and fled. She could feel Fowler's eyes on her back.

Jane felt smothered in the ballroom. The sounds were deafening and her heart was pounding. All she wanted was the fresh air of the garden and the comfort of her friend. She made her way through the sea of satin dresses and when she arrived in the garden in the cool night air, her chest was heaving as she struggled to breathe.

 

[marauder13]

William stood patiently as Jason wandered off in a slight state of shock. But Jason's emotional state was nowhere hear Duke Markham's. He stood, staring at his Liege, his jaw hanging loosely.

"You knew all along?" Richard rasped in a loud whisper.

William turned his head, an questioning eyebrow seemingly counter to the expression of joyous surprise. "I've known for the past five years. I haven't remained King just by being a nice fellow."

"But you've had me chasing them all around the kingdom, and you knew who was helping them?"

"Yes. I couldn't just go in and deal with Fowler. He was, and still is, too important to just lop his head off. Mind you, if anything happens to young Armitage, I will have his head." William started to walk deeper into the darkness of the garden. "This way, I can get Fowler away from my friend, get Armitage some political clout, as well as giving Richard Larrimore something else to work with as well as giving him a safety net of sorts. Of course, this arrangement will leave Fowler flush with money, and a nobleman with too much wealth fills them with temptations to get up to naughtiness."

William stopped, and looked over at Richard. "I think it would be fitting for a royal visit to the Duchy of Claren. The Crown has not visited there in many years, and it will do well for those people within his current demesne. I happen to know that Fowler maintains a number of estates about the Duchy, and they are all in places of natural splendour. I have a desire to visit them all. Plus, there is a cousin of Marielle living just on the other side of the border in Selucia that she would dearly love to see again. It would make for the perfect opportunity for them to spend some time together."

Richard shook his head, suppressing the desire to laugh. "My Sire, I stand in awe of you abilities to bestow such grand gifts upon your loyal subjects, and yet nail them to the floor so easily."

"My dear Lord Markham, it is a necessity of good governing of a Realm of this nature. The stability of the Kingdom is first and foremost in my mind. When the people are happy, and the nobility are suitably restrained, then we have a happy King." He clapped a hand on Richard's shoulder. "You go back and harrow the poor unsuspecting noblewomen. But be on your best behaviour should you dance with Her Majesty. I'll take a little walk and clear my head before I return."

"Of course, Your Majesty." Richard bowed, and headed back to the Masque. William walked slowly, figuring out how to most painfully treat Fowler for his insult. He would do it in such a manner that would tell everyone else that he was punishing Fowler. There were times that William loved custom and tradition, and how they could be turned into the most subtle of weapons. Ones that would only damage those that needed to be damaged. While he ground Fowler into the dirt, he would make the people of the Duchy of Claren more loyal to the Crown. For a bulk of the monies spent would go back to the people, plus the festivities would lift their mood as well.

Content with the initial stages of his plans, William started heading back to the ball. But as he closed on the celebration, he became aware of someone else in the garden. They were making no effort in hiding themselves, but that person could merely be bait.

All question concerning the intent of the person disappeared when he saw Jane wandering a quiet section of the garden, trying to calm herself. He felt a surge of anger at the soul who caused her discomfort, but put it to one side as he closed on her. He, too, made no efforts in hiding his approach. He wanted Jane to know he was not sneaking up on her.

"Jane? Is there something wrong? I thought you would be enjoying the ball."

He walked up until he was a polite distance from her. The moonlight was strong enough to allow her to see the genuine concern on his face as his eyes flickered looking at her face, trying to divine what she was feeling.

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane untied her mask and put it on the bench beside the pond. It felt ridiculous to be dressed for such merriment when her heart was in such crisis. There was almost no fate that felt worse than marrying Fowler, but she could not let her father be ruined. She thought of her father’s rage the day he thought she was conspiring to get her own way. It was no wonder. He needed her to marry well and quickly. She rubbed her hand and looked down; it was aching from where Fowler had crushed it in his hand. She could see the beginnings of a bruise on the heel of her hand.

“Damn him.” She whispered. It was then that she saw the King. She could see the concern on William’s face as he stood just a few feet away. She took a deep breath. “I didn’t know where else to go, I had to leave the ball.”

She took a few steps closer to William. “I know you were protecting me your majesty. But I need to marry Fowler. He says if I don’t, that he will financially ruin my father. I can’t let that happen. I can’t allow him to destroy everything my father has worked for. And my brothers would have no inheritance. I can’t do that to them. Not when I can change it.” She swiped at the tears that began to fall with the backs of her hands. She knew she must look like a little girl crying in the dark, but she couldn’t stop herself. As her tears came in earnest, the whole story tumbled out. She told William of Fowler talking about breaking her spirit and squeezing her hand until it made her whimper. She talked of how that whimper seemed to excite him.

Jane choked back her tears. “I had hoped to give you your gift and celebrate your birthday. I am sorry to be crying at your celebration.”

She withdrew the handkerchief from her sleeve and handed it to him. “I made this for you, William. It has your swans and the lady is holding the rose of Lyoness in her bill.” She held the delicate linen in her fingertips, showing him her needlework. “I wasn’t sure if it was fitting, but you said you wanted something that made you think of me and I could think of nothing better than your swans.”

Jane did her best to calm herself. She knew that wicked minds might see her crying in the garden with the King and imagine something unseemly or sordid.

 

[marauder13]

William stood still, letting Jane regather her composure. She was clearly distressed, and he didn't want to add to it by closing on her and making her not feel 'alone'. But he felt relieved when she took a few steps closer to him. The moonlight allowed him to see her face clearly, noting again her natural beauty, marred as it was by what was concerning her. But for William, it was not just how she looked that made her such a beauty, but who she was.

She spoke softly about what had caused her distress. The conversation with Fowler, and his plans to get Jane as his wife. He listened to how he cruelly manipulated her by telling her what would happen if he didn't get what he wanted. He was proud of her hearing she was willing to sacrifice herself for the betterment of her family. His hands started to move to remove the tears but her own hands moved faster than his. But the more she spoke, the more determined William was to thwart Fowler's moves. He was starting to understand why the man was looking for a third wife.

“I had hoped to give you your gift and celebrate your birthday. I am sorry to be crying at your celebration.”

"Don't be sorry. Fowler was cruel for what he did to you."

“I made this for you, William. It has your swans and the lady is holding the rose of Lyoness in her bill. I wasn’t sure if it was fitting, but you said you wanted something that made you think of me and I could think of nothing better than your swans.”

William took the linen from Jane, looking at it intently. He would be receiving gifts of immense money value, but the one gift he held in his hand was worth more to him than any other he would receive. Jane had created something for him. Simple, beautiful and straight from her heart. He smiled broadly, knowing that everytime he did look at it, he would remember their simple talks by the pond, their privacy guarded by the royal swans.

"Jane, this is a most excellent gift, one that will hold pride of place amongst all the other gifts I will receive. Thank you, Jane. I couldn't think of anything better."

He closed the last few paces, and took the troubled woman into his arms. He held her warmly, supporting her as a friend. How long they stayed like that, he didn't know nor he didn't care. He took a little step back, and used his hand to tilt her head up to look at him.

"Jane, you need not worry about Fowler and his plans. In a few days time, his ability to force your father into agreeing to marry you will be gone. I was going to agree to his proposal to marry you, then he made a mistake that ruined his chances."

Seeing her looking up to him, the moonlight giving her tear dampened skin a soft glow, he felt a tug towards Jane he had not felt before with anyone. The descent was so slow and gentle that he was not aware of it until their lips almost met. Even that knowledge didn't stop him from finishing what he had started. His lips met hers, hesitantly. He wanted it to be perfect for her, this first kiss they shared. His arms moved to support her as their lips embraced and William showed Jane how much she meant to him, plainly and clearly, in the seclusion of the Royal Gardens.

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane melted with relief when William told her that Fowler would not be allowed to marry her. She wanted to save her family, but the cruelty in Fowler’s eyes had frightened her. And then, she was in his arms. She felt safe from t he entire world when he enveloped her. She felt delicate and treasured as he held her close. She felt a familiar tug on her heart and she knew she was beginning to fall in love with her King. She chided herself, but then his fingers were on her face, tilting her gaze towards his. When he looked down at her and caressed her face tenderly all else was forgotten.

And there in the splendor of the garden, he kissed her. Jane had experienced a few stolen kisses after games of chase as a girl, but nothing like this. She had never before been kissed by a man and for just a moment she thought her knees might give way. She put her hand on his chest to steady herself and that only quickened her heartbeat. His mouth was warm and strong and she unconsciously murmured against his mouth before he broke their kiss. She made no effort to leave his arms.

In the distance, they could hear the music in the ballroom change. The heralds were blowing trumpets and people were clapping. Jane sighed deeply.
“It is time for the Queen’s gift.” She managed to whisper. She withdrew from his arms and tied her mask back on. It wouldn’t do to have the King miss his gifts from the Queen. The Queen. The thought hit her almost like a fist. Her friend, the Queen. She had just been kissed by her friend’s husband. A few feet ahead of the King she hurriedly walked towards the celebration. Inside the decorated hall the men of the court were bringing in the Queen's gift. It was shrouded with a golden cloth.

With great fanfare, the gift was unveiled. The Queen beamed at her husband as the crowd applauded her gift. She had had William's suit of armor retooled and craftsmen had added gilt and jewels to the breast plate. Jane did her best to fade back from the crowd. She knew that William would now start receiving gifts from all of his subjects. She looked around the room for her father. Her father was standing in the back of the room with his arms crossed and he was watching her.

She smiled at him, and her father's face warmed. She wanted to rush to her father and explain that the King was not going to allow Fowler to ruin them, but she knew she couldn't. The best she could do was to go to him and take his hand and watch her friend open his gifts.

 

[marauder13]

William warmed to the way Jane responded to his kiss. She didn't resist, but went with the kiss, seemingly enjoying it in the way he hoped she would. He felt the slender hand come to rest against his chest. He wondered if she felt his heart hammering against his chest. He was excited about kissing such a delightful woman as Jane. When the wondrous kiss ended, he kept holding her in his arms, lost in how nice it felt to have her like that.

William startled slightly at the sound of the fanfare announcing the arrival of the Queen's gift. He let Jane slip from his arms, and replaced his mask as she did her own. As he did so, he pushed back the feelings from kissing Jane so they didn't show when he returned to the hall. He was unsure of what to make of the feelings, and the desire to kiss her. He would have time to ponder them further, and decide on the proper course of action.

William timed his arrival to draw attention away from Jane's return. As far as he was concerned, nothing untoward occurred in the gardens, so he didn't want her to be scorned over something that never happened. He walked to stand beside his wife as her gift to him was brought forth under a golden cloth. What was revealed was none other that the very suit of armour that he wore when he fought his Father in Law to save his kingdom. But it had been reworked and made far more ornamental than the originial, very serviceable armour. But he had to admit to himself, it did look spectacular.

He turned to see his wife's expression radiating throughout the room. He smiled, kissing her cheek and whispered his thanks for her very unique gift. He walked to the table where the other gifts were placed, and while he looked them over, he carefully dropped Jane's amidst the pile. One by one, he brought forth a gift, unveiling it before the crowd, thanking the person who gave it to him. Each was different, of the finest qualities as well as some great value. He left Jane's near to the end, but not last.

"And this gift is from a dear friend of mine, and I can see that it has come from her heart." He held aloft the embroidery, seeing the confused looks of the faces of those nearby. "While this gift lacks the noticeable wealth of many others, it has a great value to me because it was made with me in mind. Thank you, Jane Larrimore."

He went through the remainder of the gifts, thanking everyone who gave presents to him, and thanking them for their attendance. "Now, my most loyal subjects, let us celebrate as we desire. Those who seek to leave early, have Our most sincere permission to depart whenever they wish, without causing offence to the King. But when We decide the time for celebrating is over, then all of Our guests will be asked to leave. Until then, rejoice and enjoy!"

A great cheer filled the room that slowly died down and allowed the musicians to resume playing. William took Marielle out onto the dance floor, and led her through one of the more formal Lyonese dances. The couple moved with grace. The rest of the court stood back, watching as their monarchs danced alone. When the dance finished, William bowed to Marielle, and she curtsied in reply. The court erupted in cheers. William turned to see Marielle tearing up, the joy she felt clear to him even through the mask.

"See, my wife, they do love you when you show them that you are part of their kingdom."

"Thank you, my husband. It was to be a day for you to receive such magnificent gifts. But the people seem to want to grant me the greater gifts, rather than give them to my husband."

"This is a great gift for me. Now, do me the pleasure of dancing with some of the other members of court when a more formal dance occurs."

"Not this day, my husband. I will only dance with you, as another gift of mine to you. You go and enjoy yourself." She kissed his cheek before going to stand with her ladies in waiting.

William smiled broadly, then went off to have some food and drink before finding someone to dance with.

 

[wideeyedone]

The room was vibrant with music, food and joy. It had done the courtiers well to see the Queen make such an effort to recognize their King. The room was abuzz with talk of the gifts and the gestures made the by Queen. Abigail was practically strutting with pride as the other ladies in waiting fawned over her. Jane watched her father’s face carefully. He seemed pleased. He smiled at her.


“You and Abigail have done well. And your gift, many people noticed that the King counts you as his friend.” He patted her cheek and felt the heat there. He smiled wryly but said nothing. She took his hand in her own and squeezed it. He shooed her away. “Enjoy this night, my girl. You deserve it. Go find someone handsome and young and hopefully rich to ask you to dance.” Her father laughed as she walked back toward the dance floor.

Instead of finding a dance partner, Jane was greeted by the Queen herself. Marielle had removed her mask and she looked even lovelier. She took both of Jane’s hands in hers.

“Jane. I wanted to thank you. It was your insistence on me dressing as the Rose of Lyoness that gave me hope that the court might still accept me. The King is very pleased and you and your sister Abigail are a part of that. Jane, you are now to be one of my maids in waiting. I will make sure that you have a match that honors you and elevates your family.”

Jane gave the Queen a deep curtsy and a very hushed thank you.
The Queen drew out a satin bag from her skirts and handed it to Jane. Inside was a sparking necklace of purple and green jewels that would match her dress. “And do not worry; I have one for Abigail as well, made of gold and green. Now, Jane, enjoy this night. You should be dancing.” The Queen scanned the crowd. She made eye contact with a tall man in a red mask, she waved him over. It was Gregory Prior.

“Lord Prior, my dear friend, Jane needs to enjoy this celebration. I think she should be dancing, what say you?” The Queen asked with a mischievous grin. He smiled and offered his hand to Jane and then they were dancing. It seemed she had one partner after another and Fowler was nowhere in sight. The court danced until almost daylight. Jane sleepily made her way to her family’s quarters holding Abigail’s hand.

“Sweet dreams.” Abigail pressed a kiss to her forehead. Jane nodded knowing that she would dream the sweetest dreams, of kisses in the garden and dancing the night away.

 

[marauder13]

For the week that followed, it seemed to William that the world had changed slightly for the better. The usual annoyances were less. His wife seemed to be less reluctant in her duties to bring a royal heir into the world and there was more to be happy about.

Each day, he spent some time in the garden, sitting on the very bench where he received what he felt was his best birthday present of all; a kiss from a very beautiful young woman. Whenever he closed his eyes for longer than a blink, the vision of them sharing that little innocent intimacy replayed in his mind. To his surprise, it was not lust that stirred in him whenever it happened, but a much more soothing warmth. He knew the blaze that lust fueled within him from his times with his mistresses. But with Jane, it was different.

While he enjoyed the time in the gardens, he was also hoping that Jane would come by and visit. He didn't change the times he spent there. Arrived at the same time, stayed in more or less the same places, and left at the same time. Each time, he she didn't arrive, he was both pleased and saddened. Matters were improving with the Queen, and getting involved with another Mistress would only make matters worse. There was no real love between them as their's was a political marriage. But it was know for some to grow to respect each other, and even fall in love from the gradual exposure of being together.

Again, the thought of Jane came unbidden to his mind, and he felt the joy associated with her. He knew that his showing off her gift had made her noticed in the eyes of the court, and that she held some favour in the eyes of himself as well as Marielle. This would help make things easier for him to resist doing anything unsettling with the young noblewoman.

He tried to clear his mind, watching the Swan drift over towards him, attentive for the food that he had began to associate with William and his latest visitor.

~||~​

"As you can see, all is good and proper regarding the transferring of the loan to you, Count Armitage. In return, I have your word that you will not speak of this information to any other?"

"Correct. The matter is now closed, Your Grace." Jason took every ounce of his training and experience to keep the outer facade of calm and confidence in place. He knew of Fowler's reputation politically, and was prepared for any number of possible... events shortly after the conclusion of the meeting. Even going as far as letting Fowler know that if something untoward happened to him didn't help Jason's comfort levels much. "If I may be so bold, Your Grace, it would be a good time to desist in your interest in the matter at hand too. Should other parties find out of their own accord..."

"Indeed. There are others out there who have sharp eyes too. As you have said, this matter is closed." Fowler rose slowly, menace oozing out of every pore. "This was a bold move, young Armitage. You have been tutored well. But don't let something like this go to your head. Neither should you think that it will gain you leverage over other goals I may have."

"Thank you for that advise, Your Grace. This is not a move to try and oust you of any positions of favour. It is merely... a way of saving you from a more significant mishap later on. Thank you for your understanding." Jason sat still as Fowler left. He remained sitting for a good few minutes before he started to shake and sweat.

"What have I got myself caught in? A feud between the King and Fowler? Or is the King protecting someone else? Why did he have me deal with this matter?" The young man poured himself a large wine, and swallowed it in one gulp.

 

[wideeyedone]

Jane had not been prepared for how much her life would change after her being named a maid in waiting of the Queen. Little of her time was her own. She escorted the Queen to prayers and she took notes for the Queen during her audiences. There were events to plan, sewing for the poor, alms to bestow on beggars and then there was the maitenance and planning of the queen's wardrobe.

Marielle was also introducing her to the right families and people of importance. She had eaten meals with George Pryor and Philip Price's family as well as a cousin of the Queen. Marielle had not settled on who she thought was the best match for Jane.

Jane's father had taken an interest in her interaction with Jason Armitage, but Jane had not seen him since the Masque. She had hoped to, if nothing else, she counted him as a friend and she enjoyed his presence.

Jane was perched on a bench in the Queen's sitting room mending a lace shawl that belonged to the Queen. Normally this sort of needlework would have to be sent to a dressmaker, but Jane was skilled with the needle. Abigail was talking to the Queen about another event.

"The spring is still lovely. I want to have another event out of doors before the summer comes and it is stifling." Marielle was smiling as she began to spin ideas.

"What about games of skill- archery, jousting, and those sorts of things." Abigail suggested. "Followed by a feast, the entire court out on the lawns, lit by torches."

The Queen was excited and Jane smiled at their planning. It was satisfying to be in the inner circle and to know what was going to be happening. Jane stabbed her thumb with the needle. The light was getting low. Marielle shooed her out of the room.

"Finish tomorrow, sweet Jane. You need more light. Run along and enjoy your evening." Jane curtseyed and exited. She had planned to swipe bread from the royal kitchens and then feed the swans. But Jane saw Abigail. Abigail hiding in the shadows further down the corridor. Abigail was in tears and Jane quietly went to see what was wrong.

"Sister," Jane asked quietly as she took a few steps closer to Abigail. Abigail looked so very pale and her hands were shaking. "What is it? Are you ill?"
Abigail looked at her starled, but she sipped a few quick breaths.

"You can't tell a soul, Jane. I am with child. The Queen can't know... not yet. She is hoping, she might even be pregnant herself. But you must promise to not tell a soul." Jane nodded unsure of what one woman's child might have to do with the other. Abigail hooked her arm in Jane's and they strolled down the corridor.

"The Queen doesn't keep ladies in waiting once they are with child, it is too harsh a reminder that she hasn't produced an heir. Jane nodded but said nothing. Court life was proving far more complicated than she could have predicted.

Jane delivered Abigail back to their quarters. Her father was sitting at his desk, instead of scowling he seemed to be laughing as he wrote his letter.

"Ah, my daughters are home." Larrimore laid his papers aside. "Tonight we are dining with the court. I have arranged for us to dine with Armitage. Jane, wear your blue gown. I think there are some pearls you can wear with it, they were your mothers."

Abigail bowed out of the evening claiming illness. Richard agreed, making it clear to Jane that he knew everything. Jane got ready for the evening, she wore her mother's pearls and the gleaming blue satin. The dress had been a gift from the Queen, the Queen seemed just as determined as her father to find her a suitable husband.

Her father escorted Jane into the great hall. Jane looked around the room eager to see the King, eager to see Jason Armitage.

 

[marauder13]

Jason Armitage, Count of Balantine, was young, and a little unversed in the intricacies of court politics, but he was by now means lacking in intelligence. He knew he was being used by the King in a move against Fowler, and it was a matter of sensitivity to all three other men involved. Richard Larrimore almost fainted when the young Count informed him that he had indeed taken up all the debts from Fowler. The man had managed to gain some substantial debts, but there was signs of the man paying them off at a good rate. Fowler obviously called them in for some reason, and Larrimore got the King to block him.

"Is there anything I can do by way of thanks for this most generous act, My Lord?"

"Yes, in fact there is. I would like for you to join me at my table in the King's Court when the evening meal is taken. I wish to meet all of your family, and have a chance to get to know the people who I am now... connected with."

Jason watched as the older man's expression changed to almost a knowing one, mingled with relief. The tension flowed out of the patriarch of the Larrimore family, soon replaced by genuine pride.

"It will be our pleasure, My Lord Ballantine. You have been a most gracious gentleman, and it will be our honour to join you at your table."

"At least it will give me a chance to find out how much influence this man has over the court. That he can call in the King's favour speaks greatly of him. Maybe, it will help me to maintain my safety against Fowler. I am sure that the Duke will not take this well, and will seek to restore things to the way they were." Jason adjusted his clothing for the night's gathering. He slipped a dagger into a sheath that was hidden from casual eyes. "But then again, one can never be too sure."

~||~​

William was liking the change in Marielle. They were spending time together, talking about whatever seemed to be of interest. She also seemed to be more relaxed about him, smiling more and not glowering at him when he entered a room she had be in by herself. It seemed that she was also a little more interested in what they could do together while trying to produce an heir. Now, they kissed at times and she even moved more in sync with him when they copulated.

Even dealing with troubling matters seemed less stressful. He was looking forward to the evening meal with the Court. Marielle was going to attend for the first time in many such meals, which was going to cause quite a stir. Plus, the news of Fowler's deal with Armitage was also causing a lot of speculating.

William chuckled to himself over the one rumour in particular; that Richard Larrimore called in a favour from the King himself to have the deal done. William pondered just how many people would be trying to determine the truth of that rumour, while getting themselves best positioned to make the most of it.

"Dear Lord, this will be fun to watch."

~||~​

The King and Queen entered together, arm in arm, and clearly very relaxed with each other. Many whispers echoed through the room until the royal couple were near their places. William waited for Marielle to sit first, then sat down after her. Everyone else resumed their seats and waited for the food to be brought out.

William looked about the room, seeing Armitage signal the Larrimore family to join him. All the most serious politically minded courtiers watched ever move closely, trying to pierce the veil that wasn't really there. A few more glance back to him, but he ignored them and carried on as if nothing was happening.

"Husband, what do you think of the Count Ballantine?"

"Hmmm? Oh, the Armitage fellow? He has a great deal of potential, if what I have been hearing is correct. He learned a lot from his departed father, and has had the good sense to apply what he has been taught. The county is quiet, prosperous and the young man is making some good connections that will benefit him greatly in the near future." William looked over at his wife, a slight smile gracing his face. "Oh... that was not what you asked me, was it my wife? You wanted to know if he would be a good husband for Jane Larrimore."

Marielle blushed slightly before laughing a little. "Indeed. She needs a good husband, who will respect her in the way she deserves." She gave William a deep look. "You like her, don't you?"

"Yes, indeed I do. She is someone who is interested in William, rather than the King of Lyonesse. I find her to be someone I can relax about." He looked back over the rest of the room. "All these people see is a way to improve their lot. They care little about me, only what I can give them. Jane is not like that. But that would be why you've taken her in so quickly, so closely."

"Then why did you send her off with the Duchess of Gomeree?" William caught the hurt and anger in Marielle's voice. "Did she need to know how better to care for you?"

William stiffened over the insult she threw at Jane. "No. Claudia knows a lot of the political nature of the court, and she doesn't have many Lady companions in Court. I thought the two could help each other in that way. Was that why you took her in? To keep her from being influenced by the Duchess?"

Marielle's skin took on a pink hue under the makeup. She turned her attention back to the food, no longer wanting to continue the painful discussion with her husband in a public place such as the Court's evening meal. She had surprised herself at the depth of the feelings talking about the Duchess had brought up. She knew her husband had paramours, and was discreet enough with them, but the Duchess was one too many. Plus, she noticed how happy William was whenever he returned from one of their trysts. Since his birthday, something changed between them, and she felt more betrayed by his previous actions. She closed herself off, and resumed the outward appearance of the aloof Queen.

 

[wideeyedone]

Marielle watched Jane as she sat at the table of Count Ballantine. She studied the girl. Jane still wore her hair too simply. Her dark hair was swept to the side and tied with a length of satin ribbon. Her blue gown was a one of the Queen's castoffs, Jane had shortened it and embroidered tiny white flowers on the bodice. She wore a simple string of pearls.

Marielle's brow furrowed. There were other young women in the court with a greater sense of style. Temperance Gilden dressed with such splendor that she looked like royalty. Other daughters of the court were more shapely and more seductive, but it was Jane's name that seemed to be on every man's lips.

The Queen gestured for one of her attendants. She had her friend George Prior summoned. THe handsome widower bowed deeply beside the Queen.

"Tonight I need you dote on the fair Jane Larrimore." Jane's name almost sounded like a curse word coming off of her tongue.

"Your majesty, I will of course do as you wish. However, I do not think she and I are well suited. My sons need a mother and I want a wife with more...." His voice lowered ,"sophistication."

Marielle laughed at his response. "I am not asking you to bed or wed. But I want to see if your attentions will get Ballentine's hackles raised. Her father needs her wed and I want to see sweet Jane happy and cared for." Prior was no fool so he agreed and returned to his table.

Jane was pleased to see Jason again. He and the King had been the highlights of the masque for her. She thought of William and the kiss they had shared. Her eyes travelled to the King's table. William was watching the crowd and she hoped his eyes would meet hers. It was the Queen's gaze that met her own. The Queen arched an elegant eyebrow and Jane suddenly felt chilled. She shivered even though her cheeks were flushed with heat.

"Count Ballantine, I have never travelled to your county. But I hear it is lovely and bountiful place." Jane turned back to the conversation at the table. She could feel her father's eyes on her.

Jane allowed herself to get caught up in Jason's description of his county. He talked of the lush fields of crops and the children of his tenants playing with the spring lambs. To Jane this sounded so very much like home. She could see herself living in the peaceful countryside, living a quiet simple life much as her mother had.

"And how do you find life at court?" Larrimore asked with a smile. "I would predict that we will be seeing you more and more at court. The King and his advisors have been impressed with you. And Abigail, my daughter in law, reports that the Queen wants to find you a wife."

Jane giggled when she saw the look of surprise on Jason's face.

"My dear Count Ballantine, all the ladies in waiting say you are quite the catch. I was the envy of all the maids for getting to dance with you at the masque." Jane stopped short. Her voice sounded honeyed and unfamiliar to her. It was as if Abigial, or the Queen or some other courtesan was speaking through her. She bit her lip. She caught Jason's confused expression. "My apologies, it is quite disturbing to hear of others speak of one's marriage prospects. But it is a topic I have grown very familiar with."

"Jane." Her father's tone was razor sharp.

"Lord Larrimore, Jane is right. It is unsettling. Jane is just being honest and I appreciate her honesty." Jason smiled at Jane and offered her his hand. "Neither of us are eating, let us wander a bit and we can introduce each other to the few souls we know."

Jane gratefully took his arm. She was glad to escape the hard look on her father's face. The meal was drawing to a close but the wine was beginning to flow more freely. The musicians were playing. Many of the young nobility were on their feet, the women almost looked like butterflies as they flittered and fluttered from table to table.

"I am sorry about what I said before..." Jane's soft apology was interrupted by the rich deep voice of George Prior.

"Ah, the lovely Jane Larrimore. Did you know Count Ballantine, our little Jane here can be a bit shy. I think she would rather smell the roses and watch the bees than mingle in the court." Prior took her hand in his own and kissed it.

He looked up at Armitage as he allowed his lips to linger against Jane's knuckles. The music was swelling and dancers were invited to join in.

"Sweet Jane, do me the honor of partnering this dance?" Prior did not let go of her hand. Unsure of what to do, Jane looked to Jason. He nodded towards Prior.

"We will dance the next dance." He offered, his voice was gentle for Jane, but his eyes were hard when they met Prior's.

Prior escorted Jane to the dancefloor. His hand over hers, George whispered to her. "Laugh and smile as I talk to you. Do you understand?" It took Jane a moment to supress the questions bubbling up inside of her. She tossed her head back a little and smiled.

"Good." George replied with an equally fake laugh. "Jane, Iknow you are new to court life, but I know you aren't a fool. You are a pawn in a very dangerous game. I don't know all of the players or their motivations- but the Queen, Fowler, your father and the King Himself have invested interest into your marriage. Be wise, Jane. Choose your allies well. And don't let your father's ambition devour you."

He had to squeeze her hand to get her to remember to smile and laugh. When the song ended, Prior escorted her back to Jason.

The warmth of Jason's smile when he saw her helped ease the fear that was settling onto Jane. She did not have to be reminded to smile and laugh.

Jason had the easy grace of a good dancer. Jane asked him to tell the story of the spring lambs again. Jane tucked away her worries and listened to Jason describe the joy and promise of spring in the countryside. She laughed aloud when he told about the ram chasing the children the children around the pasture.

Marielle had been quite pleased with herself as she watched Armitage stew while Prior danced with Jane. Now Armitage did not look like a benevolent benefactor, he looked like a suitor. Marielle smiled at the King.

"It looks as if Armitage is drawn to our shy violet, Jane. But if this is not a good match, I think Jane's reserved nature would make her a fitting candidate for the Selucid court. My cousin, Henry, is looking for a bride. He is quite rich, just what Larrimore is looking for. He wants a suitor willing to line his coffers in exchange for his daughter's hand."

Marielle smirked and searched her husband's face for a response.

 

[marauder13]

William was wise enough to know when not to press a matter further, and let the talk of Claudia and Jane go for another time. But he did notice how how the Queen took a more active interest in Jane. Some things were becoming a little more clearer to his mind concerning what his wife had been doing.

He was aware of the conversation between her and Prior, as were a few other sharp eyed members of the Court, such as Fowler. William continued to eat as he watched Prior dance with Jane, much to Jason's irritation, before taking her to the dance floor himself. William barely hid the smile brought on by the little play made by his wife.

"It looks as if Armitage is drawn to our shy violet, Jane. But if this is not a good match, I think Jane's reserved nature would make her a fitting candidate for the Selucid court. My cousin, Henry, is looking for a bride. He is quite rich, just what Larrimore is looking for. He wants a suitor willing to line his coffers in exchange for his daughter's hand."

William took time to put his food on the plate, wipe his mouth and lift the wine goblet to his mouth. He recognized the smirk on Marielle's face, one of the Selucid smugness when they thought they were clever or brilliant.

"I know Armitage is drawn to her. He has been from the moment he first saw her. And as much as I am for strengthening the bonds between our two nations, I will not surrender such a treasure as Jane to do it, least of all to Henry. Yes, Larrimore is after more riches, only to repay his debts to Fowler. Can't blame the man for that. But, Armitage bought up Larrimore's debts from Fowler so money's no longer an issue." William took a sip from the goblet, letting what he said sink in. "Don't mess up my hard work, my wife. These two are well suited for each other, and matters are well in hand." Her returned her smirk with one of his own, though a lot more light hearted. "You're not the only one who matches husbands with wives in this kingdom."


The music came to an end, Jason bowed to Jane with feeling and honesty. He liked her. She was someone who was not wearing a facade like most of the other courtiers, and women of the Court. While she was not dressed with the same elegance as the other women present, the way she was seemed perfect for her. He held out his arm for her to escort her back to the table.

"I hope I am not too bold, but I was hoping that I may have some time with you tomorrow, in the King's Gardens, to talk with you some more. I do find you to be someone that I want to get to know more. I would like to take advantage of the Fates bringing our paths together like this. Gaining a friend such as yourself would brighten my life immensely."

Jason guided Jane to her seat, helping her to sit down, before taking his own seat at the table. Once he was sure that Jane was comfortable, he looked to his other guests. He caught Richard's expression, still as hard as it was when they left. "Is there a problem, Lord Larrimore?"

"Hmm? Oh, no. No, not at all. My apologies, Count. There has been much on my mind, and I have not been well enough to keep it from troubling me at times when I should be leaving such thoughts silent."

Jason gave the older man a curt smile and nod, before looking back at Jane. With her, he shared a more sincere smile.

"Lords and Ladies of the Court. Thank you for dining with Us this eve. May you all sleep well." William reached out to take Marielle's hand as she stood. The room stood, bowing to the royal couple as they left the hall.

"Lord Larrimore, Ladies, thank you for coming to my table this evening. I hope we can do this again some other time."

"My Lord Ballantine, it was our pleasure, and I hope we will have the privilege to do so yet again." Richard bowed to Jason, before ushering his family out, holding Jane's arm rather firmly. His voice was a vicious hiss that also scratched and scraped her ears.

"I don't know what games you are playing at, Jane, but don't you do anything to upset Count Armitage. You understand me? Nothing."

 

[wideeyedone]

Richard’s fingers bit into Jane’s skin and by the time they were in the corridor he was pulling her up on her tiptoes.

“This is not a game, Jane. You act as if the whole world is not hanging from a thread, but it is and if that thread snaps, the Larrimores, all of us will be destroyed. Our fortune, our reputation, our futures, gone. Gone because you are too selfish to do as you are told. “His voice was quiet but vibrating with anger and his grip got even tighter as she tried to squirm out of his hold. “You are too much like your mother.”

“Let go of me.” Jane heard the whimper in her voice and did her best to suppress it. He shook her hard. Her explanations only seemed to make him angrier. “I haven’t done anything to upset him. Lord Prior asked me to dance, that is all. Nothing is amiss, Father.”

“Your marriage is the only commodity that I have left. Our lands are leveraged, the flocks are sold. You, Jane, are all I have left to sell.” His words stung worse than his touch. He abruptly dropped her arm and then stormed ahead. Jane looked to her brother but he appeared just as exasperated with her.

“Jane, you are no longer a child. We need you to marry and to marry well. You don’t have to marry Fowler, thanks to Armitage and the King. I am glad of that, but you have to marry and marry soon. It is the way of this life. We all have to do things we don’t wish to do. I want to be excited that my wife is with child, and yet, we must keep it a secret because of the bitter Queen.” He sighed heavily as they walked to the apartment.

Jane did not follow him inside. She lingered on her father’s words. She was all he had left to sell. She knew it was unseemly for her to be out alone, but she didn’t care. Her father would be packing her off soon enough, she was being chastised for imagined transgressions, she might as well incur his wrath for a real ones.

Jane wove her way through the corridors until she was in the gardens. The sky was full of stars and the birch trees swayed above the pond. The swans were absent, surely in their love nest. Jane sat on the bank of the pond, her dark satin skirts pooled around her. She closed her eyes and inhaled the hint of roses in the air. Her father was convinced she was conniving to have her way, that she was muddling in her own affairs. He had told her that she was too much like her mother. Her mother who had brought wealth and substance to the Larrimore’s. Her mother who had married unwisely and for love. Jane didn’t even know what course she wanted. But she wanted to feel loved and wanted. She wanted to feel the way she had the night of the masque in the King’s arms when he had kissed her. William would understand. William would help her make sense of it all. Jane felt her heart race. For once, she was going to do just what she wanted.

She walked to the rose bushes and snapped off one of the pink blooms. She took it to the guard standing watch at the corridor to the King’s chamber. The guards knew her from her service to the Queen.

“The Queen has retired for the night. Her ladies have all been sent home, Lady Larrimore.” The guard offered in a whisper.

“I bring a message for the King.” Jane handed the guard the rose. He looked confused and she shrugged her shoulders. “I was told he would know what it meant.”

The guard nodded and took the rose down the corridor. Jane turned on her heel and rushed back to the gardens hoping that William would recognize the invitation, if he was told that she was the one that carried it to him.

 

[marauder13]

William stood by the very bush that made the grand sacrifice to pass on the message Jane passed the night before. He smiled to himself. His dear friend was learning the ways of Court faster than he thought she would. Marielle looked at him questioningly when she saw the rose in his hand.

"Jane wished to see me. We are going to met and talk in the gardens." He saw the expression of confusion. He had nothing to hide, and he wasn't going to upset the growing bonds between them. As he paced, he was drawn back to the place where they first encountered each other, along with the swan who had taken great delight in every encounter since.

"I'm sorry, dear friend." William laughed. "I can only hope that Lady Jane remembered to pass by the kitchen to fetch you some bread to feed yourself and you lovely family."

The rustle of fabric and the soft sounds of foot falls alert William to the fact he was no longer alone. He turned to see Jane approach him. He warmth that pooled within him spread out, shining through the smile he gave her as she closed.

"I hoped that I got the right message from Lady Jane Larrimore, and so far it appears that it is correct. How are you this fine morn, Jane?"