The Count of Celemente (PM to join)

[Starsailor2804]

OOC: PM me to join. Accepting only the best writers This thread is set in 16th century France, the age of Renaissance, introduction of gunpowder, but yet it is not used widely. France is rich with its sea travelling exploits, colonialization beginning in Africa and South America. The Count of Celemente, Count Stephen Arguois, has gained the estate of his father who has recently passed. Twenty-two he is seeking a bride, not by necessity, but forced by his assistants and mentor. So, a party is thrown in his honor and tada there goes the story. The exploits of French nobility are very sexual in nature Those characters I allow in the story put all the description in first post.

IC: The middle of the 16th century brought great success to united kingdom of France, the country was rich, the nobility was rich, and all of this was taking place during the expanse of the French Empire throughout Africa and South America . The estate of the Count of Celemente has greatly prospered from its support and aid in shipbuilding and its funding of such discoveries that brought back the richest of the civilizations. The Count of Celemente was practically rolling in the richest brought from the foreign lands, gems, jewels, gold, and so on. But, tragedy struck the estate as suddenly the Count fell ill and died nearly immediately.

Quickly following his father's death, Stephan Arguois became the new Count of Celemente. Twenty-two, smart, handsome, and a good leader Stephen had no difficulty in continuing where his father left off. Maintaining one of the strongest estates within France he had gotten much respect and riches from the king of France who wished to keep him happy and show the support of his most loyal and generous Count. However, things slowly fell apart, the people of the estate loss support daily in their new Count as he had no bride.

No bride meant no children, and should anything happen to Stephen, like had happened to his father, they would have no leader. The people did not like the idea of having a new leader, they trusted in Stephen, but because he had no heirs they feared what may happen. Productivity slowed and the people spoke their concerns, which reached the ears of Stephen's advisors. In response Stephen came before them, the Count finding himself in the fields of his estate among his people, speaking to them.

Standing on the land that was his, the six foot handsome man, with his short dark brown hair, his dark blue eyes, and his strong body of a leader brought them all to their knees. "Stand my people, I know your fears and I wish to worry you no more. In response to your concerns my messengers have already been sent throughout the lands of France and Europe. I have received word from our King himself that he wishes me to marry into the strongest family in all the land."

"In a months time the most capable daughters of the most powerful leaders of Europe and elsewhere will be coming to seek marriage. I promise you my citizens, you will have your heir and this estate will prosper!" Cheers and claps sounded throughout the estate as with a bow of grateful respect Stephen mounted his horse and road back into his palace estate. Days and weeks passed until a month had passed and those seeking their daughters married to the Count began to arrive.

Dressed in his fine silk garbs of royalty with his guards posted at the doors Stephen stood at the top of the stairs in wait for the guests to arrive.

 

[TaintedHeart]

::OOC-Beware! I was extremely bored when I typed this, so it's going to be super huge! lol, the biggest thing I've ever posted..not expecting anything meeting this length in response, or anything to rival it.::

Word had travelled so far as England, and when England got the word, they were curious. As to how of two of the greatest nations, once set together man and women would prosper from this. Surely a marriage between the two countries would draw them closer together then they were already? That's what the King had thought so of it. And there were so many a Noble man who had a daughter suited for this occasion that they knew not who to send.

When finally the sights were set. Many a gaze turned this way and that, but in all, they settled on the Noble Lord Henry Archer, of the well known Archer family of England. With Six male born children, the most prosperous of men, having three finalizing ties with other Noble families, he had but one daughter, the middle aged of them all. At Nineteen, it was amazing that she had remained but uncourted, for now. She was considered a Lady in Waiting, but there seemed so many numerous reasons she had missed previous arranged marriages. She'd gotten lost on the way, she'd been held up by a group of theives, forgotten her dress, come down with a sudden ailment, and on a number of occasions the one to be her groom disappeared within the night, ended up in the top of a tree, left the day back to his own home for her odd behavior. It was more than apparent that one of England's most beautiful, wealthy, important young women did not want to be wed. It was worth one last try.

Trinity Gwen Archer was an amazing woman. Spirited, beautiful, and amazingly intelligent, it was astonishing how she was made to cope in a large family of six brothers, three older and three younger. Truth be told, her parents, the both of them were constantly taken with time with the Royal Family, political matters or such of social status that she became more of a guiding figure for her twelve, eight, and six year old younger siblings. With a Twenty three, twenty one and twenty year old brother, she had to learn quickly how to cope. That ment, most of the time she spent was with the boys.

She played with them, with swords and rode horse back, climbed trees, caused havoc, all expected of a boy. She snuck and hid outside the window to listen and learn to write and read, count, math being her most loved of subjects in secret to play word games and spell and what not with them. But as she grew older, her mother and father, tutors and mentors began to expect more lady like manners from her. For even two weeks to break her at thirteen from climbing trees and riding horseback the way a male would, she was sent to the Castle with the younger daughters Elizabeth and Margaret to learn to be lady like...where she simply influenced them to climb about the highest towers of the palace by the vines of the side, sneak past guards and sword fight.

Trinity, still, at nineteen, had grown past much of that tom-boyish behavior. She had grown into a well developed, stunning young woman. Of nineteen years she was well developed. Light skin, and red-gold locks of wide spiral curls which cascaded down her back to mid length. It might have even been much longer, had she not done something so bizarre as cut it boyishly short and parade around on horseback with her older brothers at eleven years old.

For a month she was not allowed in public until her hair had grown back to at least shoulder length. Her body was beautifully developed, with well respected curves, a small waist, long legs and delicate fingers. A pampered life had led her body in general to be the softest thing short of a cloud to the touch, her hair and facial features gorgeous as such a noble stature required. Green-blue eyes, a pure lively tone were visible, full lips and high cheek bones. Yes, she was a sight to see indeed.

Trinity hadn't wanted to leave England, not unless her younger brothers were to come with her. And in such a request, they had only allowed the youngest of them to go, as he seemed so insistant on being with the motherly young woman. So, as they set off for France, leaving England with high hopes, Trinity had caused so many a diversion that both Thomas and herself had so much fun she forgot the importance of the travel. She'd taken one of the horses of the coach and set him loose, causing them to stop and try and capture the happy to be free white stallion. She'd sneaked off to a tavern during a stop in a town, and stirred up so much trouble that they were already prepared to set out signs with rewards for the beauty. Women like Trinity were rare to come by, but her looks alone among the peasents had been enough to pin point her horribly. It was a fun trip indeed.

As they arrived in France, Trinity wondered just who this 'Prince Charming' might be. She remembered her father's words 'This is important for you to do, Trinity. Edward, Louis and Henry all are married now, you are next in line. To marry a man of such high standing power in such a close neighbor and friend of our country in an honor. Please, just please try and make this work, for the good of you and the pride of England.' He made it sound as if her life depended on it. True, she'd seen the picture of the Count of Celemente, and he was handsome. But was he like all of her other grooms-to-be? Stuck up, stubborn, snobby? She would see about that.

Crowds gathered around the elegant coach, pulled by the four white stallions, four of which the Royal guards used to escort the Noble daughter there to France keeping distance between the crowds and the coach. So many faces, cheerful and eager to see this almost Princess-like young woman, Trinity was surprised rather much how familiar it seemed compaired to England. The estate in which they were to arrive at was magnificent, she had to say. It was not so close, as the Nobles of England were placed so near the Palace that they could see the massive structure near them. Thomas was to stay with the mentor made to escort Trinity at all times, and she, well, was there for this formality. To meet this man her father so desperately wished her to be wed with.

As she was helped from the coach, the feeling of sheepish pride at the loudness the crowd drew, Trinity paused to gaze around. Her attire was as richly beautiful as herself, a gown of red and gold, the whitest of white made to be there was what she was dressed in. True, the beastly thing was extremely difficult to wear, for it made breathing a challenge, but it was gorgeous none the less.

Around her neck a ruby pendant, the symbolic feather of the Archer family engraved in the gold of the pendant. A few rings adorned her fingers, and matching ruby jeweled earrings in her ears. From her head, down to her feet dressed in golden slippers of sorts, she spoke of glamourous royalty. It was extremely gaudy and flashy, more than what needed she had protested, but her mentor insisted she wear it. Followed and led by those guards and her mentor, Thomas made to stay in the coach, Trinity made way up the stairs to finally meet this Count of Celemente.

 

[Starsailor2804]

OOC: Focusing real hard haha u know why

IC: Stephen Arguois, Count of Celemente, watched as the first of the carriages arrived. The woman who stepped out was truly spellbinding, a marvel, a treasure, and one who definately set the bar high for the other women that would come after her. English she was, for sure, her appearance alone told him so. However, for being an English pig, how he detested the English, she was as fine as the most beautiful French woman. As she approached, step after fine step up the staircase, he watched with great intrigue as she looked up at him time and time again as she also concentrated on not tripping up the stairs.

Initially he did not like her hair, he did not like the color, but as she grew closer he cared less and less about it. Finally, as she reached him as she curtsied he bowed and took her hand. Placing a kiss upon the back he smiled, actually more like smirked. Her title and name presented at that time it was no surprise she was from England. But, Trinity? What a very odd name. Looking her over in a most demeaning way, but not anything new to most noble women being tossed around as brides, Stephen continued to hold the end of her hand.

"Lady Trinity, it is truly an honor. Your travel was long, but I hope it was well worth it. You are actually the first to arrive and I do love those who are prompt," he said and smiled as he looked her over again. She was truly a fine woman although he knew nothing about her yet. To be his bride she would have to be an absolute example of nobility. If she should faulter she would be gone in no time. Finally, as she walked by him he looked at the back of her dress as she left his presence. Surely she was a virgin for there was no much besides for the trail of her dress.

As the man searching for a bride, rich beyond comparing, he knew the women would be throwing themselves at him. However, none had arrived yet and thus he followed Lady Trinity inside and watched as his assistant showed her to her quarters. A fine suite she would have with all the luxuries of home. Standing at the doorway he watched her, trying to get little attention, actually he hoped she hadn't seen him yet. For being here to possibly become his bride she surely hadn't thrown him much charm or sexuality. However, a woman of her stature was no expected to do such in public, but now they were alone.

 

[TaintedHeart]

Trinity thought over the first impression he'd given her, and she'd given him. True, she kept it relatively bland as formalities called for, and he hadn't given her much of a reason to give anything else as well. He seemed like them all, charming, handsome, wealthy, all the same they were. But then again they tended to vary...snobbish, arrogant, vain and cowardly seemed to be the most common of them all, it all depended on the guy. Perhaps she'd ran into something different. One would have to wonder with the French, who followed along a similar, yet entirely different line of manner compaired to the English. It certainly would depend.

Her quarters were splendid, nothing short from the best it seemed. Brushing back her hair, Trinity scanned over the room, and despite that building urge to get rid of that dress, the horrid thing having never been more constricting, she found it easier to lay then stand. Her hair was swept over a shoulder as she lay on the bed in the silence of yet recognizing that Stephen was there as she thought back to him. Yes, he was handsome, quite one for any young woman to find attractive, and so she saw no reason why not to either. Already she was beginning to wonder just what being his bride might mean. More restrictions, more restraints, yes, but his attention as well. And just what sort of attention? She smiled somewhat. Well, she had all the time she was there to find out.

Absentmindedly her gaze travelled now, alone for the time in the room as she lay there, not bothering to correct that manner in which she lay. Sure, had she been in the presense of anyone else, she might have been sitting as any other young woman was ment to sit, but for now, she lay on her shomach, hair draping over one shoulder with her chest pressed against the soft bed below, exposing a good bit of that gorgeous cleavage. Oh, but a good deal of her concealed body would prove to be so equally beautiful, should it be given such achance. Her eyes shifted to the door, blinking once or twice to find that there was but the Count himself standing there. Well, flirting never hurt, and as her father had said, it may be in her better interest to at least try and see if this might work. If not, then it was no harm done toward her.

She tilted her head, those pretty blue-green eyes watching him deviously as she smiled, raising a hand to set her chin delicately there. Well, it may be good to get to know him as well. To marry someone out of the blue, well, it would not seem very favorable toward her. And yet still, it may very well be entirely up to Stephen. She paused for a moment before speaking.

"Oh, I hadn't noticed you there M'lord. Might you come and join me?" The offer was given in very much the same mischeivous air as she watched him. Perhaps? Perhaps not. It would depend. And so she waited, brushing aside those curls to fit neatly with the others of that long sheet of gold lined red.

 

[Starsailor2804]

Stephen watched the young woman as she went about the room studying it and enjoying in the fine things he had given her. A woman as wealthy, beautiful, and as noble as her should be treated to nothing less. Thus, it was no surprise when she quickly made herself comfortable laying upon the bed. The sheets matched the color of her hair, he hadn't planned that, but it suited her very well. Cocking his head to get a better view he looked at her pressed up partially exposed breasts.

The size of her breasts alone and her appearance gave him a good idea of what she looked when wearing much less. She at least won his heart on the appearance side, he was actually growing fond of her hair as well. Also, she was definately not all that refined, most women wouldn't lay on the bed as such in their dresses. However, that wasn't necessarily a good thing. He preferred both really, both refined and laid back.

As she turned her head and propped up her head upon her hand he smiled very briefly. Those blue-green eyes, a strong contrast to her hair, stuck in his mind as he looked into them. There was definately something hidden behind the exterior of this woman. Hopefully, he would get to know what she was hiding. Walking over to the bed as she asked if he would join her he took very noble-like steps. Stopping before the edge of it he slowly sat down and looked over at her, she would have to turn her head the other way to see him.

"So, do tell me Lady Trinity, how was your trip from England? And, what do you think of my estate so far?" Looking down at her he smiled and then looked at the door. He was to attend to any new guests that were to arrive and hoped that his assistant would come see him first rather than let them walk by.

 

[TaintedHeart]

"It went quite well, little flaws here and there, but splendid none the less. Your estate is marvelous, nothing but the best as I see, quite worth the trip to come and view. It's very impressive.."

Trinity kept her voice was politely quiet, not too loud for the most part as she spoke to him, watching as he fully entered the room and walked to sit upon the bed. Yes, she certainly knew that laying in such a state, with the dress she wore was not very well style in mannering, something one would expect from a younger girl unentitled to express such mannering. Though, they were alone in the room, after all. It would certainly depend on how formal the situation.

And though the beauty of the room simply demanded more attention, she knew it was impolite to shift you attention anywhere other than with whom you were speaking. That and she favored studying him. Yes, he was quite handsome, it was more apparent from the close range now. Just as the flawlessness of the young woman hadn't faltered, if anything was more apparent from such close range. True enough, the spirited nature she held onto tended to be but a task to deal with from time to time. Maturity came with age, though.

She wondered how many other women would arrive here as well. Surely they would all be there for the same reason, their familys wishing to have such an arrangement set. Yes, that would likely be the reason. And as far as she knew, such word was sent all over, so there would be no doubt that they would be comming in from various neighboring countries. All in all, the countries were at peace with one another, so there would be little arguments to spring, unless of course it was among the women themselves.

"France is a beautiful country, and its people are even more intriguing. By the good guidence of you and others like such I am sure." She said with a smile as she watched him for a few more moments. Manners drilled into her head as she spoke, the certain polite compliments given in turn. Why was she suddenly so keen on keeping at her best behavior? She could not quite figure that out, something about this handsome young man insisted nothing but the best of behavior. He hadn't shown any excessive ammount of godly behavior, he wasn't gawking at his reflection in a mirror or addressing her as an inferior. No, this one seemed different from others. It was a nice change.

 

[Starsailor2804]

"Good, I am glad the trip went well and I am glad you find my estate to your liking," Stephen said and smiled as he rose from the bed. Walking over to the window he looked out to the lit front part of the house. Still no more arrivals, was anyone else coming? Turning back to face the young woman he smiled and walked back over again. How did he go about this? She was his possible bride, but that thought seemed really awkward to him. It wasn't because of her, but instead it was just a very odd position to be in. The feeling was likely mutual.

Pulling up a chair to the side of the bed, a few feet from her, he sat down and smiled allowing her to still lay as she was. He didn't mind her over exposure, not only because of the sight he was able to see, but also because it showed she had the ability to relax. "Well, I must say I am really overwhelmed by your compliment about my country and my role in its greatness." Sitting back with his arms resting on each side of the chair he studied her yet again as she was now able to study his assets better as well.

"So, do tell me, what do you think about being here and possibly becoming my bride? What are your hobbies and such? Do just tell me about yourself please. Tell me anything you wish to," he said and then waited for her response. What she would tell him and say would matter very much for it would speak greatly about her personality.

 

[Calyxxx]

OOC: Thanks again for the invite to this thread, now lets see what kind of trouble I can stir up!!
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The carriage came to a halt in front of the steps.

"Whoah! Is the driver drunk? How am I to maintain the quality of my dress and hair with the carriage bouncing about?" Courtlyn Amelie Jacinthe sat cross-armed in the back with her hand-maiden, looking about as happy to be at the estate of Count Stephen Arguois as she was at her physician's office. The scowl on her face deepened when the carriage door opened and she stepped down.

Courtlyn was an excellent actress, everyone in her family, or in her family's employ, thought so. Although she acted as if she was disgusted to be across the country at a lavish party, she was secretly excited. Whirling around to face her driver, her icy blue eyes pierced his.

"I expect my father will fire you after he hears of the bruises I've sustained at your hands." She whipped back around to face the steps in front of her.

"You would expect the help to be on their best behaviour when travelling."

Hiking her dress up with her hands, Courtlyn began the long ascent towards the door. She smirked to herself thinking about how the events of the evening may play out. Her parents were determined to marry off their daughter, she was becoming quite expensive to keep, and unbearably snobbish. The Count had seemed a most convenient solution. For Courtlyn, this was merely a night of debauchery and mischief. She had always needed to be the center of attention, and this night would be no exception in her mind.

A tendant approached as she neared the open doors. He beckoned for her to take his arm, but she refused.

"No, I'm not ready yet. Do I look like I'm ready to be presented?" Carefully, Courtlyn smoothed out her long, jet-black hair. Courtlyn was especially proud of her hair and spent countless hours tending to it's upkeep. It was quite long, and Courtlyn could sit on it if she so wished, although she would never consider sitting on her most precious asset. Then her hands went to work on the layers of her dress. She was quite happy with the gown that had been made especially for her. The trip to Paris had been horrible, the seamstress had been an unbearable pig, but her work was exceptional. The emerald fabrics and golden embroidery set off Courtlyn's porcelain-pale complection fabulously. The strapless, corset-style bodice pushed her ample breasts up and out, exactly as she liked them, and highlighted her bare shoulders. The dress flared out from her hips and fell beautifully down to the floor. Secretly, once her hand-maidens had dressed her and left, she had removed the constricting panties she wore underneath the layers of dress. Smoothing out a few more wrinkles, Courtlyn's fierce blues returned to the face of the tendant.

"Now I am ready. Please take me inside." Cooly, she extended her hand towards him. "And don't even think about trying to slip a ring or bracelet off my hand."

 

[TaintedHeart]

::OOC-welcome to the RP! good to see someone else around!::

"It..well, it's a very welcoming proposition, for the matter, one that may benefit more than one person greatly." She answered his first question softly with a smile. It was an odd feeling, speaking of such a thing with a man she'd not known any longer than two hours at the most. But yet again, that was probably what made the mood so tense and formal. He probably felt a bit awkward about it as well. They did only just meet each other, but it was already going rather good.

"Well, as far as hobbies go, I tend to sing, and spend much time outdoors. I...occasionally ride, something that has always interested me.." Oh, don't forget to tell him you also part take in fencing and a number of other bizarre things that might be considered quite unlday-like... Her thoughts brought a small smile to those lips as she shifted just a bit to cross her arms below her as she watched him. Well, it wasn't her fault, it gave her much more interest than simply wandering around and smiling prettily at every man she saw, picking flowers, attending formal parties, or some other thing. And though it had been a nessessity for her to learn to do, for the sake of her poor father's health, she still kept heart and mind centered upon that which followed fun of any forms...some forms more than others.

"I don't suppose there is...too much more to tell." Too much that you're willing to tell, you mean.. She finally shifted with little difficulty, the corset once more taking it's toll on it's constricting of her already slender body as she sat up upon the bed, leaving those spiral red curls across one shoulder as she place her hands upon her lap. Much better, besides the squeezing of it. Still she scanned him over curiously, perhaps a bit more curiously then she had intended. But it never hurt to look, as long as it was unnoticeable. Her eyes travelled to his face as she finally made her mind up.

Perhaps she would not mind that of being his bride at all, not just for the sake of others, but for the fact of being with him. It might be better to continue getting to know him before she finalized that decision. The silence brought nothing but a continuous wander of eyes, and despite that now very regal sitting position, still a fair bit of the soft, lovely flesh of her upper chest remained temptingly visible. Completely unintentional, no doubt.

Her eyes shifted to the window as well, though from her position, rendered her unable to see much outside of it. Perhaps more guests had arrived. Always the properness to not hold one up with her own questions, and wait until the time was available for such, in case Stephen had to leave her presense so hastily. Still, Trinity was sure she'd enjoyed his company in the time they had been there, and would be glad to be share his company yet again. She knew how busy such occasions could be, none the less.

 

[Starsailor2804]

Stephen smiled as he looked her over just as curiously as she did him. There was much to this woman, that was for sure, he just hoped he would learn much more about her before the party was over. Truly, this was not a day affair, the ladies would be here for some time, but the time was still short. Looking at the floor he then looked back up at her as she commented that she could sing and liked to ride horses. "You sing? I have always fancied a woman with a lovely voice....," he said and was going to continue when his assistant appeared at the door.

"Excuse me, another guest has arrived," he said and then left allowing the two to be alone again. "Well it appears I am needed elsewhere, however I hope we get to talk much more later. It was a pleasure," Stephen said and taking her raised hand he placed a kiss upon it before leaving her. Who was this next guest? She surely did have stiff competition. Walking to the front door as quickly as he could Stephen turned the corner to see an extremely beautiful woman. Did the breasts of each woman get bigger and bigger?

Stephen laughed to himself before presenting himself as he closed the gap between them. He liked her hair much more as well, he always preferred brunettes. Bowing to her in a most formal fashion he rose and then took her hand placing a light kiss upon it. "Welcome to my estate, I am Count Stephen Arguois. And who might I have the pleasure of meeting?" Smiling he looked over her near perfect features, however he could tell immediately that she held herself quite differently than Trinity.

 

[Calyxxx]

Batting her long eyelashes at the Count, Courtlyn curtseyed as he kissed her hand, adjusting her shoulders to allow the man perfect view of her bosom. Her voice flowed like liquid chocolate from her delicate lips as she spoke.

"M'lord I am Courtlyn Jacinthe. I'm sure you have heard of my family? My father is Count Etienne Vernay Jacinthe, our estate is far to the south of your own. I do hope you intend on showing me around your magnificent home. Was it a rose garden I could spy in towards the back of the grounds on my way up?"

As she spoke, Courtlyn took in the man in front of her. His hair was a delicate shade of brown, perfectly styled except for a small bit that was rebelling and standing almost straight up near the back. She smirked slightly as she read his eyes, hoping he was enjoying what he was seeing as much as she enjoyed being seen. His suit was brushed clean of any lint and hinted at a pair of strong shoulders.

"I do hope there has been a room prepared for me, I fear I look absolutely dreadful after my journey. Might I be shown to my quarters? I'm quite anxious to display myself properly for you tonight." A devilish smile curled around Courtlyn's lips as she shot him a wink.

"I expect I am not the first to have arrived?" Courtlyn happily took the Count's arm as he led her through the hall. Feeling his bicep through his jacket, she gave it a playful sqeeze. "You'll have to indulge me a bit later, and describe the sports that have provided you you with these exquisite arms."

 

[TaintedHeart]

Trinity stood for a moment to walk to the window as the Count left her alone in the room. The other ladies would be arriving not too long now, and by the looks of it, one of which was already here. Competition had never appealed much of a problem to Trinity, but then again, Trinity held a high standard of competition. Enough to appear as a sister of one of the Royals of the castle, whom in which were younger than her, yet treated with such delicatcy, bred and grown to appear the best of women naturally with little need of items to enhance beauty, other then what they were born with.

Her blue-green eyes gazed through curiously as she parted the curtains, brushing back her hair with delicately slender fingers. Her eyes fell upon the coach, though was too late however to spot the woman exiting . It mattered little, they all would be meeting each other soon enough, as this party was to be held with a good number of women. And there would be many more no doubt, soon to come. For the first time since her leave of England, she wondered just how exciting this could get.

Perhaps the French had a different mean of parties or balls of sorts, that were not so horribly formal that the smallest mishap could mean gossip for weeks? That was commonly how the parties of England were, so precise and delicate that the best of behavior was expected. She'd gotten in trouble there a good few times for sneaking into the kitchens and exchanging childish kisses with the Palace boy, in which he father so deeply detested still to the day.

That flirtish nature blended well with her manners now, when she felt the need rise to use it, part of which drawn to that womanly figure she held. That boyish sense of fun and adventure never left, but still, it was good to be feminine...she always followed the rules of look and touch, they could look no doubt, but certainly no touching unless, of course, she fully agreed to it.

Her ponder to change into something more comfortable rested in her mind as she watched a few men bring in the small personal she had brought with her, not much for the stay wasn't to be too horribly long, but still, something to brush that hair of her's, and other such things that she tended to enjoy. The gown she wore now, with it's fine silk, mellow red material and golden lining, white folds flowing delicately with the bejeweled finery, fitting her appearance beautifully, but was horribly difficult to move with. The corset beneath, which aided to keeping the beauty of the upper levels of the dress to the equality of the rest of it was the most annoying of it, but the closet to fashion as had been set. So, she wore it how it was ment to be worn, and knew it'd be harder to loosen it than to just leave it be.

With little to be done, Trinity made her way to a chair and relaxed, thinking in small time she would take the time and view the the rest of the estate, or the grounds outside perhaps. There was still much time to be had before the night was to come.

 

[Starsailor2804]

Stephen knew the name, it was familiar, almost too familiar, and actually she was the one he hoped would not come. His father and her father had some disagreements in the past and although he was young to remember it his father never let him forget what had happened. But, that was long in the past, things were better now, and he would try and forget it for now. Looking over the young woman Stephen finally spoke. "Well, I had no idea it was you Lady Courtlyn Jacinthe. You look so much different than when I last saw you, granted that was some twelve years ago," he said and smiled.

Turning as she moved by his side and wrapped her arm around his Stephen nodded, "Yes, I will show you to your quarters immediately. And yes, you are the second to arrive, the first was Lady Trinity Archer from England." As she gripped his arm tighter squeezing his bicep Stephen could not help to blush slightly. Walking past Trinity's room Stephen led Courtlyn into the room next door that was her's. Entering it was much like Trinity's, almost exactly alike. "Well, this will be your room, I hope it suits you," he said as he drew his arm away from Courtlyn.

Stephen wanted to keep Courtlyn and Trinity away from each other for awhile, it was true the French and English rarely got along, but that truth was even worse between women as it was men. They would not get along, so he thought, simply due to the cultures they both came from. One hated the other as much as the other hated them. "When everyone has arrived I will be calling all to the dining hall for introductions and other such events of the evening that I hope to keep a secret."

"Is there anything else I can get you before I leave you to display yourself properly as you requested?" Looking over the woman who stood not to far in front of him he could tell immediately she was one to take what she wanted. She did not intend to lose and probably would do anything to prevent it. He knew it best to leave as soon as possible for there was much to prepare for before later tonight as well other guests would surely be arriving soon.

 

[Calyxxx]

Smiling, Courtlyn let Stephen lead her to her room. She smirked when he mentioned who else had arrived.

"Who? Funny, I don't think I've ever heard of her."

They entered her room and she looked around.

"Excellent. This is a very appropriate room. I'll have my man bring my things inside."

She watched him standing in the door way and ask the question.

Embellishing the movement of her hips as she walked, Courtlyn took his hand, eyes deeply focused on his.

"Don't you worry. If there's something I am in need of, I won't even think of hesitating to ask you for it." With that she lifted herself up onto her toes and kissed his cheek. Winking at him again, she gave him a little wave and licked her lips before closing her door.

Walking to the window, she peered outside and saw the driver of her coach struggling to carry in the bags she had brought with her, her hand-maiden following close behind. Moving to the large mirror adorning the vanity table, Courtlyn studied herself. She noted that her corset would have to be tightened, and lifted her breasts up to ride higher.

The bags finally arrived, and after a short lecture about timeliness to her driver, she dismissed him before addressing her hand-maid.

"Bring me that bag" she said, pointing.

From it she extracted a large powdering brush and went about dusting her face, neck and breasts while her hand-maid brushed her hair for her.

When she was pleased with her looks, she alighted from the small vanity stool and went to the door.

"Now, lets find out who this English bitch is." Peering down the hall in both directions, she stepped from her room and knocked on the door next to hers.

When the door opened, she smiled sweetly at the woman on the other side.

 

[TaintedHeart]

Trinity's gaze turned now toward the door from her chair as she lost herself in her thought before turning her head lightly. Well, someone was there, and it would be so horribly rude to simply turn them away without a seconds thought. So, standing in that grace of which she gathered so hastily, she placed a delicate hand upon the door knob and opened the door.

Well, it was no surprise, Trinity's judgement of one seemed to depend. The first impression made all. But already, she decided she did not like this woman.

She wasn't quite sure why, Trinity had always considered that non-sense between nations of be it the French or Italian, whatever it was, it had never fazed her the lightest to dislike over such. But here was just someone she could not stand already. She'd identified that reason quite hastily none the less. Her clothing alone spoke for her, one of those prissy little things, French by the tone of her hair, and always with that surperiority. Well, she would just have to see about that.

"Hello!" She greated her with a polite curtsie, that trail of long, red-gold locks shifting as she did. Despite the fact that she greated her so kindly as if she was some old, long time friend, Trinity kept her manners to the highest account. She'd marked her down with a red ink quill in her mind as an enemy, and a lively competitor as well.

"I see you are here as well on Count Stephen Arguois account? The deepest pleasure it is to make your aquaintance. I am Trinity Archer, of England." Still with that sweet air of innocent meeting, a smile placed upon her face. Though her blue-green eyes echoed with a bright sense of pride those words she spoke, and the smug satisfaction to see her competition so much different. Already she was able to tell, her attitude would vary so much from her own. And she recognized much attention was given to her hair as well. While her own hair was delicately kept, each curl holding in all strands, not a stray strand lose in it's silk softness upon her head, she never paid more than needed toward it.

This was a case, she finalized, that was no longer about the simplicity of marriage. But to show her superiority over this woman, if none others. For now, though, she'd be nice. For now.

 

[Calyxxx]

"How wonderful to meet you." Courtlyn reached forward and wrapped her arms around the woman for a stiff hug. "Wow what gorgeous hair you have! Are you sure its England you are from and not Ireland?" She giggled and took in her competition.

A quick glance told her that this woman would be no competition. Sure she was beautiful, but who cares. All the women who would be there tonight would be beautiful. The game at hand was about cunning and strategy, and Courtlyn was sure she could out do this one.

Letting herself in, Courtlyn sat daintily on the edge of Trinity's bed.

"So what's England like these days? I haven't been there in years! My family vacationed in London one summer. I swear it rained for half the trip!" She smiled up at Trinity and patted the the bed beside her. "Come! Talk with me! They're going to make us wait before we eat, aren't they? Trying to work up our anticipation. Well I'm just here for the fun of it, and maybe to make a few friends. They'll have no satisfaction from making me wait!" Giggling again, she was sure she had puzzled this red-haired woman.

Whether they were competing or not, Courtlyn wanted to have fun. At this point, she was unsure of whether she wanted to torment this one, or partake in what her physician called "deviant, devillish behaviour" with her. The pendant she wore around her neck drew her eyes in to her breasts and she let them linger there long enough for Trinity to notice it.

She folded her hands in her lap.

"So why is someone as beautiful as you still not married? Are English gentlemen blind?"

 

[TaintedHeart]

"England is in it's calmness, extremely boring though, I just had to make it to France, if anything get away from the dullness of it all." As the remark fell about her hair, taken in a polite manner rather than an insult as it could have been, Trinity followed Courtlyn as she entered the room. Oh, just what she had expected. Obviously she sought easy competition. It would be best to not let anything too dire on herself off to this girl, perhaps, she'd seen types. And some types would play that role. It all depended. Truth be told, Trinity had lived life on the edge most of her life, doing things many a women wouldn't consider. So, what made this any different? If she needed to raise those standards of competition even higher, then she very much would. When the time came for it.

"They certainly will won't they, a funny common thing it is with all of these parties, the time they take between them all, and so much waiting." And what did she do when one played the fiddle to her? Why, she picked it up and played right back at the same tune. This one wasn't going to get her that easily.

Manners brought her to sit lightly aside Courtlyn. Perhaps, and then again perhaps not. Friends would be chosen after this bride so much, and if, by some miracle of sorts, a friend could be picked out among a competitive group, then Trinity might actually savor the company and chance to get away from England just for a visit. It was no surprise much at all to her that she needed new friends, but still. It was best not to pick them out either, not until she was almost finished.

"Oh, well it certainly would seem that way, the gentlemen of England. I'm not sure. Perhaps they simply have a fog around their eyes?" Small talk, small laughs, be it with someone you could never stand or have always liked, such acts refreshed in her mind from her days in the palace. Why, where she had gotten along splendidly with the Princesses Margaret and Elizabeth, both the eldest daughter Alice and young Queen Katherine had played the bitter sweet game back and forth with her.

She and Alice, who was in fact her age and now miserably married to a man of her father's choosing, had been more common. Back and forth with such a sweet nature, until Trinity had finally targetted off what would end it. Alice's undeniable crush, a young man of their age named William. Three days in his presense with Alice, and she'd easily had him wrapped around a finger, much to Alice's discomfort, for she could not even get an inch of his attention. Upon leaving the castle, William told his father he would wed none other than Trinity when the time came. And still, that time that he had tried had not been long ago. William was a handsome man, though quite untrustworthy, uncoordinated and unloyal. One of the last attempts to be made in England, it was sure.

That pretty shade of gold red hair shifted as she turned her head now to better view Courtlyn. She'd caught her gaze shift to that pendant, nessled much too noticably within that cleavage no doubt. It was a pretty little trinket, quite costly as rare as it was her father knew she wore such, he decided to buy her the best, but she wondered if that really was what caught her gaze.

"England's party styles could do with a bit of loosening as well, they've certainly become quite so formal, perhaps the fun is why I'm here as well.."

 

[Calyxxx]

Courtlyn smiled wickedly at Trinity.

"Good! So that settles it. If by some magic, another girl enchants our host and he finds her more appealing than either of us, God forbid, we shall enjoy the rest of our visit to this estate together happily." Alighting quickly, Courtlyn went to the door and called her hand maid from the next room.

"Go find a servant and see if you can aquire a bottle of wine and a pair of glasses for us." She turned back to Trinity. "My corset is killing me! How's yours? I think a few drinks in honor of our newfound friendship will help to dullen it's grasp about my middle."

Again Courtlyn's eyes came to rest on the bosom of the English girl. "You look as delicious as a feast! If the Count won't have you, then I shall!" Giggling, Courtlyn joked with Trinity, keeping the mood light. She had always found that the easiest way to get on a stranger's good side was to flatter them and kid with them, however much truth her jokes hid within them.

Courtlyn knew that her constant stream of words was slighty overwhelming Trinity. As polite and friendly as she was trying to come across, she could see caution and confusion in her eyes. Hopefully the wine would cure that.

"How many girls do you think will be attending tonight? I doubt any of them will look as exquisite as the two of us do. What a shame they will have come all this way just to turn 'round again." She giggled again.

"Now where is Ella with our wine?"

 

[TaintedHeart]

She seemed so friendly though. Trinity wondered just what she was hiding there behind those words, if anything at all. Well she wasn't going to confront her the least bit, oh no, that wasn't like her at all. If anything, she'd play along, though it would only take the smallest thing to change that.

For now, she would act, as well as Courtlyn, as but a newfound friend. Still, she couldn't help the smallest bit of confusion, unable to tell the truth or lies with this young woman. Later on, she was sure, she would find out.

She smiled and nodded an agreement to the words. Yes, how many others would be comming though? She could only wonder. Watching as Courtlyn called her hand maid from the room, she listened as she requested a bottle of wine, and then turned to speak to her again.

"This dreaded thing, I could do without surely. It's a challenge to breath in." She said with a light smile, keeping in mind for a few moments the presisting squeeze of the corset that was truly difficult for many girls. She certainly could do without, enemy, friend, or stranger she would agree with. But, for the time being corsets seemed the latest fashion, and easiest way to shape breasts in the most perfect of fashions.

"Ah, you aren't short of anything as equally delicious!" She returned the joke airily, laughing a bit toward her words. She glanced toward the door in expectancy to spot Courtlyn's hand maiden, though no, obviously not yet. Soon though, she was sure. She did very much fancy wine, and if France could have no better quality, it had the most excellent of wines she had tasted. For now, it would seem, she'd lower that competitive guard, at least for now, and enjoy her time until such need for that competitiveness rose.

She knew though, that if a crow turned it's back from another with a berry at it's talons for even a moment, the other would steal it and be off. So, through this all she would remind herself that friendships could be twisted and turned, and stolen like the berry from a crow by another.

Turning her head then finally off toward the door she spotted the returning hand maiden then, knowing that it would not be hard to find but the best of wine for them. Smallest of sips surely as well, Trinity was never one to drink much of anything, she'd learned quite easily that too much wine could render one near senseless.

 

[Calyxxx]

Courtlyn poured two generous glasses of wine and handed one to Trinity. She took a long drink before speaking.

"Mmm! This wine is fantastic! Completely worth my time in that dreadful carriage to get here." She laughed again and sat back on the bed, leaning back and propping herself up on an arm.

"Now tell me about your life. What do you enjoy doing? How was your childhood spent? What are your parents like?"

Courtlyn listened, enjoying the soft voice of her new friend, and watching her hair graze across her shoulders and breasts. Pulling the bottle up from the floor beside her, Courtlyn poured another glass for herself.

"Drink up, this bottle cannot go to waste! I insist!" As she spoke, she reached forwards to Trinity and placed a soft hand on an even softer shoulder.

 

[TaintedHeart]

Trinity sipped the wine sweetly, savoring the taste of it. Yes, it was quite delicious at that, certainly worth the time of travel. The ride in coach had gone smoothly, it certainly had better had she was sure, for those stallions were the best of their type and she would not have expected much lesser.

"It certainly is, delightful really." She held her glass lightly, listening then as Courtlyn finally spoke once more.

"Well, I sing, ride for fun, I do spend an awful lot of my time outdoors. It's just too difficult to remain inside. My childhood was spent upon my father and mothers estate, just outside of the Royal Palace, with my six brothers, one in which has come to visit France with me as well, the youngest. My parents are some of the nicest people I could possibly know. My father of course is none other than a distrant relative of the king himself, through marriage of course, and Lady Alice, my mother, a rose among tulips certainly." She took another sip, leveling the contents of the glass to half of what it had been s she rested lightly back in the leisure of the room.

"What of your life and family? Your hobbies and home? France's beauty is not only in the earth though it seems, but in the people as well." Taking yet another few sips, finally finishing the glass she leaned back just lightly to rest there upon the bed as she passed her gaze to Courtlyn. Fake or not, the idea of the shrade game was just something outside of her personality. She should make it clear now.

"Well, I know we both are in lead to become the wife of the Count no doubt. And truthfully, I could very well remain an unmarried woman for the rest of my life and happy as well. But whichever of us, or another of the ladies who will be present tonight, is his pick, I find it in myself to be completely truthful with those whom I speak. Might our friendship last even after the marriage, whichever one he chooses? Battling head on for something that may not be seems foolish to me, so perhaps we shall let fates lie as they will?" She spoke softly still with that air like friendliness. No, such aggression was not in her nature. She could go about and fence and ride horses and play instruments and what not, but something so simple as this, well, it was just not working well with her.

 

[Calyxxx]

Courtlyn sat up happily.

"Then it shall be so! Let us seal our new found friendship with a toast." Downing the remains of her second glass of wine, she picked up the bottle and refilled both her own and Trinity's glass. Raising it, she turned her saphires towards Trinity.

"Let us always be friends, and let us be ladylike enough to rise above silly squabbles over men. No matter how rich and deliciously handsome they may be." With that she clinked her glass against Trinity's, downed the contents, and leaned forward to hug her new friend. With one hand around her waist and the other gently stroking the bare flesh of her neck, Courtlyn breathed in the scent of the English woman. Holding the embrace just a little too long, she lingered near Trinity's ear before moving away to whisper softly there.

"You really are spectacular, you know."

 

[MeikaBeans]

OOC: It's so flattering to be asked to participate, how could I possibly say no?
-------
Amelie DuBois was, in fact, decended from a long line of nobility. The centuries had not been kind to her family, however, leaving them with little more than their ancestral home and title. Gone was their fortune, whisked away by Time in the hands of thieves and unfair kings. Such poor nobles were often looked upon worse than your average peasant, as they were seen playing a role. Pretending to be royalty. But nobility could not be ignored no matter the finances accompanying it, and so Amelie DuBois was to attend the Count's gala.

The carriage that arrived at the steps would be the dullest of any that would be seen that day. It had been put to working order and patched specifically for this event, having broken years before. Just as the soft blue dress Amelie wore had belonged to her mother, so had the carriage belonged to her grandfather. All her finery was aged, symbols of a wealth gone by desperately clung to and meticulously cared for. Truth be told, Amelie preferred her own simple gowns and the familiar smack of the family's sturdy wagon on her bum to the old padded seats of this carriage.

Amelie exitted the carriage as quickly as possible without compromising her image. She would not step open her own door or step from the carriage without assistance, but she wanted the embarrassing vehicle out of sight. She had worked so hard to do her family proud. Her education had been somewhat lacking(no tutors here), but she had squeezed all she could from it. Every book she came in contact with was ingested hungrily and she had spent dozens of hours practicing her calligraphy. She had learned English and Italian from her mother and etiquette from her father, though his lessons were somewhat lacking. She had not allowed herself to ride a horse bareback since she was twelve. Six years ago.

"I am Lady Amelie DuBois, of humble Auvergne. Daughter of Lord Alphonse DuBois." She spoke to the tendant waiting at the front doors, fully expecting him to direct her next. She broken her entrance down several times, from her departure from the carriage to her measured ascent up the many stairs to the door. She had gone over her appearance with a fine comb, ensuring she looked as beautiful as she ever would. Long red hair fell about her bare shoulders, carefully curled and laid into place. Delicate movements ensure they laid exactly as Amelie had placed them. Her dress, it's white trim accenting the powder blue elegantly, matched her wide blue eyes.

For the next few moments she hoped this man would tell her what was expected of her next, perhaps pass her on to the Count himself. It would be a relief to stop having to take the aggressive position and simply respond to someone else while they took charge. And quite naturally she was curious as to who this Count Stephen Arguois truly was. It was as she saw it her daughterly duty to win him despite anything, for the returned glory of her family.

 

[TaintedHeart]

::OOC-welcome to the thread MeikaBeans! ::

"Thank you.." She replied with a small giggle as she also took a long drink from that glance. Wine was wonderful for relaxing no doubt, and that was just what it had her doing now. Placing a hand behind her to support that light weight, those spirals of red-gold falling about beautifully behind her she paused for a moment. Second glance...third? She couldn't recall, but she did know that it would be wise to take it easy and not drink too much.

As she finished the glass once more and turned her blue-green eyes toward Courtlyn she didn't seem to notce that she had lingered in that hug for a bit too long. It didn't seem to set in completely with her mind, or she might have wondered. Again she refilled the glass then, marking it in her mind to let it be her last for tonight, or they both may very well be quite out of tune by the time of the true party.

"This is wonderful...quite relaxing.." A soft smile rested on those lips now as the silence filled the room once more.

She was sure the other ladies would be arriving not too far from now, but that did not matter much. She was sure their host would be there to greet them as well.

 

[Calyxxx]

Courtlyn thought it a bit peculiar how only 20 minutes before, she had been ready to antagonize the English woman to tears. That felt a lifetime ago. Courtlyn was strangely drawn to Trinity. Something in the fall of her hair, or the rising of her breasts as she breathed, or the eyes hidden under full lashes felt as intoxicating as the wine. Just as sight and touch of the Count elicted carnal visions in her mind's eye, a brushing of her arm against Trinity's or a glance at her bare neck seemed to be doing the same.

Fluidly, she stood and strode to the window.

"Come, let's look down upon our feeble competitors." She motioned for Trinity to join her and they stood and watched as a rather old looking carriage pulled up to the stairs. A pretty young girl stepped hastily from the coach. Courtlyn's hand shot out to rest on Trinity's arm.

"Oh! Another fiery headed young thing. Careful, Trinity. She's out to steal your angle" She watched Trinity's gaze as it followed the girl up the stairs and out of sight. "I do hope you aren't considering her a threat?" When Trinity's head turned to meet Courtlyn's gaze, her breath hit upon ivory tinted neck and Courtlyn shivered a long delicious shiver from the spot on her neck all the way down the back of her spine. She could feel familiar sensations forming deep from inside her, and mentally noted that beautiful women, wine and a lack of undergarments was not a particularly ladylike combination. The wetness that had been developing was beginning to drip slowly down her thighs.

With a determined tug, Courtlyn pulled Trinity towards herself.

"My English sister. Might I partake of your berry tinted lips?" Without waiting for response, she thrust her head forwards, her own moist lips sucking gently against Trinity's.