The Curse of the Lieste (closed for Baelnorn and Lots_Daughter)

[Lots_Daughter]

It was a beautiful summer’s day in the Crown Duchy of Arcaia, a small, prosperous nation located near the lower heart of the Western Continent. Cool, westerly breezes caused the emerald green grass and golden crops of the gently sloping hills to ripple like ocean waves, and even in the bustling capital city of Estea, there was a feeling of freshness and serenity. There was also a feeling of expectation, the popular topic of conversation being the prospect of Duke Dominic Lieste remarrying. The subject was inescapable. In the marketplace, the fruit seller would remark “Tis been almost a year an’ a ‘alf since Duchess ‘elena passed ‘way, gods bless ‘er soul. Five months since the time o’ mournin’ ‘as been o’er. Surely ‘is Grace ‘ill marry again soon.”

At Swails’ Gems & Jewelry, the official jeweler to the dukedom, the suave Mr. Swails would drop heavy hints of a blue diamond solitaire ring having been commissioned by and delivered to “a certain noble gentleman, a widower… sized for a lady’s finger, if Madam comprehends my meaning…”

In Estea’s town square, where several older gentlemen would sit to admire the “fine young fillies” who passed by, one could hear them arguing over which of Duke Dominic’s nieces would become the next duchess. “No, no, I heard it from my wife, who heard from Lady Mitchell, who heard from Mrs. Harrington, who heard from the washerwoman that the duke was going to propose Almira Lieste. You know, the fair girl with the wide-apart eyes.”
“And I’m telling you that you’re wrong. I have it on very good authority that he’s sweet on the dark-haired girl. Mina? Marina? You know who I mean. The one he danced with at the Ambassador’s Ball.”
“He danced with his other nieces too that night. That means next to nothing. No, my money is on Duchess Helena’s sister, the pretty one with red hair and a good figure. What’s her name…?”
“Elizabeth Arthan.”
“Yes, that’s the one! She’s quite an attractive young lass, and he’s been spending a lot of his time with her family since Her Grace’s passing. It’s only a matter of time. Mark my words. Only a matter of time…”

Those unfamiliar with the national politics of the Western Continent might have been aghast at the thought of a duke marrying, or being expected to marry, his own niece, but the Liestes of Arcaia had carried on this practice of uncle-niece marriages for centuries, and for a very good reason. For while the bloodline of Lieste was noble and prosperous, it was also under a curse, a curse which had haunted them since before the Last Age, and which could only be assuaged by this incestuous union.

~*~

The story of how the Lieste family became the leaders of Arcaia was simple enough. Before their ascension, Arcaia was ruled by the Svodori Dynasty, a line of cruel and tyrannical monarchs who dominated their people with an iron fist. After more than two centuries of ill-usage, the nobles and peasants at last rose up against their masters in a bloody coup d'état. The noble Lieste family led the rebellion and were instrumental in the overthrow and banishment of the Svodori, and when the time came to elect a new sovereign, the honor was given to the Liestes. As the word “King” had become odious to the Arcaians, the Lieste patriarch was given the title of duke, and the Kingdom of Arcaia became the Crown Duchy of Arcaia. The ducal crown was passed from father to son, and in the rare instances in which a duke died without male issue, the title was inherited by his nearest male relative. In keeping with the general practices of the time, female descendents were not permitted to rule in their own right. Arcaia prospered under its new royal family, and all was well until Duke Eadgar Lieste’s tragic death.

Three-hundred and fifty years after the Lieste dynasty had first come into being, Eadgar Lieste ascended the ducal throne. A kind, wise, and just man, Eadgar was the epitome of good leadership, and all of Arcaia flourished under his guidance. When the time came for him to choose a wife and start a family, he could find no woman whom he loved as much as his own niece Eloise. Eloise, both beautiful and virtuous, awakened the older man’s heart in a way he had never felt before, and Eadgar was overjoyed to discover that the girl returned his feelings. Though such a union was forbidden, Eadgar and Eloise married in secret, and Eadgar began to slowly work towards passing laws which would legitimize their marriage. The newly wedded couple was blissfully happy in each other’s arms, but, unfortunately, their happiness would be short lived.

Eadgar’s younger brother, Nicholas Lieste, was a ruthless and ambitious man who craved nothing so much as the power of the ducal throne. Feigning loyalty to Eadgar, Nicholas schemed constantly, looking for a way to wrest power from his brother and claim Arcaia for himself. With the aid of spies and informants, he soon learned of Eadgar’s incestuous marriage, and it was with cruel delight that he sowed the seeds of his brother’s downfall. He and his allies quickly spread the report of Eadgar and Eloise’s illicit union amongst the populace, embellishing upon their alleged deeds until both nobles and peasants alike believed that a black-hearted monster had been given power over them. Witnesses – paid handsomely for their false testimony – professed to have witnessed the couple performing unnatural and blasphemous deeds, and when a young peasant woman claimed to have been raped and tortured by the pair in a dark ceremony, the people of Arcaia began to cry out for the death of the duke who was once so loved. An angry mob, lead by Nicholas’ men, stormed the ducal palace, surprising Eadgar and Eloise who knew nothing of the lies which had been told of them. The couple was captured and imprisoned, and it was not until they were tried that they learned the crimes of which they stood accused. The trial was a mockery of justice. Once more the false witnesses testified against them, and the horrified duke and duchess were not permitted legal counsel nor the opportunity to defend themselves. Nicholas himself, feigning innocence and dismay, also “unwillingly” incriminated his brother, and it was then that Eadgar knew the truth. He and his bride had been betrayed by one whom they had trusted and loved.

Found guilty of all charges and sentenced to death, the doomed couple was burned at the stake in Estea’s town square. As the flames licked higher around Eadgar and his beloved wife, for whom he would have gladly sacrificed his own life to save, the disgraced duke locked eyes with his traitorous brother, his eyes glowing with the fires of divine retribution. In a voice loud enough for all to hear, Eadgar Lieste pronounced the curse which would forever after haunt his bloodline:
“If Lieste seeks to rule,
If Lieste seeks a wife,
He must choose among nieces,
Or death, pain, and strife.”

At the moment of Eadgar and Eloise’s death, the previously clear sky became dark with clouds, and a storm unlike anything Arcaia had ever experienced before or since broke above the troubled spectators. Rain came down in torrents, and winds strong enough to rip the roofs off houses tore across the landscape. Lightning flashed from the sky and set trees aflame, and a blistering bolt struck the great bell in the Cathedral of Hallows, cleaving the instrument in two and sending a deafening peal over the city. It was if the gods themselves had turned the elements against the small nation, and many became convinced that Arcaia had soaked its hands in innocent blood. Nicholas was unmoved by his brother’s dying words or the tempest which followed, and had not the duke and duchess’ remains been collected and hidden by those loyal to them, he would have tossed them into an unmarked grave without a second thought.

As next in the line of succession, Nicolas Lieste ascended the ducal throne and reveled in his new sense of power and supremacy. Though greedy and uncaring towards those he ruled, the new duke’s reign remained uneventful up until the day he was married. Dismissing Eadgar’s curse, Nicolas chose to further cement his power by marrying a woman from one of the wealthiest and most influential noble families in Arcaia, Lady Miatta Arcati. Nothing unusual happened during the ceremony, but when the cathedral’s bell, which had been repaired, was rung to announce the couple’s completion of vows, it once more cracked in two, falling from the steeple and very nearly killing the boy ringing it. For as long as Nicholas remained in power, the bell could never be repaired or replaced, the solid brass instrument cracking down its center the moment it was rung.

From the time of Nicolas’ marriage, Arcaia was thrown into chaos. Crops failed to grow, or rotted before fully ripened. People and animals would die suddenly and unexpectedly from no discernible cause. Fires burned in unnatural colors, and many claimed to have seen the ghosts of deceased loved ones walking through the streets as though still alive. Rats, locusts, and all manner of foul vermin swarmed through the cities and villages, devouring food and spreading virulent plagues amongst the populace. Tame and docile animals suddenly became wild and vicious, attacking and occasionally devouring their masters and each other. Famine was widespread, pestilence rampant, and even the annual birthrate began to plummet alarmingly. It was not long before both nobles and peasants blamed Duke Nicholas for the disasters which seemed to follow in rapid succession, remembering Eadgar’s words and subsequent agonizing death. Nicolas did what he could to appease them, but he was far too absorbed with his own troubles to care much for the suffering of others.

Try as they might, Nicholas and Miatta were unable to produce a healthy heir. All of Miatta’s pregnancies ended in tragedy, as they either miscarried, were stillborn, or were born with such severe deformities and congenital abnormalities that none lived into their second year. Those intimate with the duke and duchess would write that these deformities echoed those seen in children who were the product of decades of inbreeding, but it was well known that Nicholas and Miatta had not one drop of blood in common. The loss of so many children plunged the duchess into a deep despair, and after the death of her last child, Miatta too passed away, many said of a broken heart. The death of his wife was the last straw which finally broke the once proud and irreverent duke, and Nicholas at last acknowledged the guilt and transgressions which had haunted him and blighted his rule. Repentant of all the pain he had caused, Nicholas wrote a letter to his brother Erivan, in which he fully confessed his role in the deaths of Eadgar and Eloise. Abdicating the throne, he lived the rest of his short life in the seclusion of a monastery, seeking forgiveness for his past cruelty and selfishness.

Erivan was a kind and just man, very similar in values and integrity to his brother Eadgar. On the night of his coronation, Erivan had a dream which told him how he could save his people from destruction, and the very next day began to carry out these instructions. Throughout Arcaia, a declaration was read which proclaimed the innocence of Eadgar and Eloise. From thenceforth they were to be honored as martyrs, and the anniversary of their death would be observed as a day of remembrance. Erivan rededicated several places of worship in the doomed lovers’ names, and rebuilt the palace chapel to feature them in stained glass windows. The remains of Eadgar and Eloise, which had been brought out of hiding after Nicholas’ abdication, were sealed within a golden and bejeweled casket and placed within the Cathedral of Hallows, where they would be treated as sacred relics. Erivan had not forgotten his brother’s dying words, and was advised by the dream to take them to heart, so when the time came for him to choose a bride he began to court his niece Claria. By this time the populace was so beleaguered by tragedy and repentant that they made little fuss over the upcoming nuptials, and Erivan and Claria’s wedding took place without an unnatural occurrence. Even the cathedral’s bell remained intact as it rang out the good news, and all the disasters which had previously plagued the small nation instantly ceased.

The duke and duchess’ marriage was a happy one, and while other nations expected them to be as fruitless as the last, the loving pair had seven children, all of which were healthy, intelligent, handsome, and who all lived into adulthood. From that moment onward, so long as the current duke married one of his nieces, both the family of Lieste and the Crown Duchy of Arcaia flourished and prospered. It was known that previous noble families had practiced inbreeding, and had suffered both physically and mentally because of it, but the Liestes seemed to suffer no ill effects from their repeated incestuous marriages. If anything, each subsequent generation appeared to be more hearty and comely than the last, and the family became known for their beauty, intelligence, and good health. More than once a duke attempted to marry outside of the family, but each attempt was met with the same infertility and unnatural plagues as before, and could only be solved by abdication. Sorcerers, wizards, and clerics came from all the corners of the globe to try and lift the curse, but all their efforts were in vain. The daughters of the current and previous dukes, who were not permitted to rule, were allowed to marry whom they pleased, as were male heirs who were so far down the line of succession that they were unlikely to inherit the throne. Thus the family was provided with some measure of diversity, and while there was no set coloring of eyes, hair, or skin, a native Arcaian could often recognize one of Lieste blood by sight. For all its prosperity and general happiness, the Liestes were by no means perfect. As with other noble families, they had their fair share of disagreements, accidents, black sheep, power struggles, misfortune, and scandal, but so long as the reigning duke married his niece, marriages within the Lieste family tended to be happy, and there was always at least one healthy male heir to succeed to the title. As centuries passed, not all believed that the curse of the Lieste was true. Many believed the legend to be an elaborate lie created for the purpose of justifying the family’s unnatural lusts. Whatever others might have thought, the majority of the Lieste family believed in the curse absolutely, and saw their incestuous way of life as a solemn duty.

The present duke, Duke Dominic Lieste, was a kind, just, and generous ruler who was beloved by his people. Ascending the throne at a younger age than most, Dominic became known for treating all who came before him, whether prince or pauper, with respect, and his willingness to hold all social classes to the same standards under the law. The last few dukes had allowed the nobility to gain too much power over the peasant class, and thus the aristocrats of Arcaia had begun to take unjust and unlawful liberties over those who served them and worked their lands. The lower classes were almost powerless to stop this predation, but looked to Dominic as a man seeking to better their lives and who was not in the habit of turning a blind eye to the actions of his fellow nobles. More liberal than strict, and less likely to follow aristocratic tradition religiously, Dominic was most often found in comparatively simple clothing, his handsome face often going days without being shaved. This gave the duke a carefree look which appealed to the peasants, and often appalled the nobles.

Dominic had an older sister named Anabella, who was his confidante and favorite sibling. She married Lord Lionel Arthan, a diplomat and merchant, and the two raised many children together in their country estate, Rose Mead. After his succession, the duke would often escape the hectic life of the city and spend time with Anabella and her family, and it was not long before he fell hopelessly in love with their eldest daughter, Helena. Helena was a beautiful young woman with creamy white skin, sky blue eyes, and silky reddish gold hair which fell past her waist. Kind, virtuous, humble, and modest, she was a soothing and ever-constant comfort to Dominic, supporting him in his efforts to empower the peasant class and rein in the excesses of wealthy. It was to his joy that she returned his affection, and the two were married in a grand ceremony in which dignitaries from all across the globe attended. Dominic worshiped his new bride, and she him, and the two lived together in blissful wedded happiness. They were unable to have children, but the couple remained devoted to each other despite the pressure for them to produce an heir.

Unfortunately, their blissful happiness would not last long. In the fifth year of their marriage, Helena became bedridden with a mysterious illness, the cause of which remained unknown. The finest and most skilled physicians and clerics were sent for, but none could diagnose or cure her affliction. Dominic remained by his wife’s side as the ailment persisted for months, seeing to her every comfort and attempting to relieve her pain as much as was possible. Despite her pain, Helena remained calm and resigned to whatever fate might bring, endeavoring to comfort her husband with the promise of being with him in the next life. Three months after her illness had begun, Helena died peacefully in her sleep, and Dominic’s grief was so strong he ordered that all of Arcaia go into mourning for its departed duchess. He spared no expense for her funeral, magically preserving her body and interring it in the Lieste family mausoleum. Helena’s family was equally devastated by her loss, and the two grieving parties leaned upon each other for support. Duke Dominic spent as much time as he could with the Arthans, and in the winter months the family would come to stay with him at the ducal palace. Their presence was a great comfort to him, particularly that of Elizabeth, Helena’s younger sister. Elizabeth had adored Helena, looking up to her as the epitome of feminine excellence. She was very like her sister in both appearance and temperament, and their mutual love for the departed duchess created a consoling sympathy between her and her uncle.

After the official year of mourning had passed, Dominic’s advisers began to pressure him to remarry. He had yet to produce an heir, and he had several attractive nieces who were of marriageable age. The duke dragged his feet for another five months, and it was during the midsummer month that the rumors of an imminent betrothal began to swirl.

~*~

Lady Elizabeth Arthan knelt within her family’s garden, singing softly to herself as she tended to the fragrant roses which bloomed in abundance. A rainbow of pink, white, red, and yellow, the sweet flowers seemed even more lovely and vigorous than in years past, but none was so lovely as the young woman who attended them. Elizabeth, having so recently reached the age of eighteen, was breathtakingly beautiful, her blue eyes large and expressive, her flawless skin an even shade of cream. Her face was perfection itself, with finely formed features and rosy lips and cheeks which often flushed in response to her emotions. Her fiery red tresses were her crowning glory, falling in loose, silky curls below her waist. The redness of her hair made the rosiness of her cheeks and lips all the more alluring, contrasting vividly with the paleness of her skin. Elizabeth’s body was a combination of feminine delicacy and voluptuousness which was so rare and so desired, her full breasts, slender waist, and curving hips appealing to that which was most primal in men. The lusciousness of her figure had become all the more apparent since her gowns had been cut to reveal more of her creamy decolletage, a sign that the young woman was of marriageable age. Today, instead of fine silk and lace, Elizabeth wore a garment more suited to her humble task, a simple gown of brown linen which would be easy to wash or replace if stained with dirt. Her hair was drawn back in a simple braid, a wide-brimmed straw hat shielding her from the sun’s rays while a pair of leather gloves protected her hands from sharp thorns. Though without the vanity possessed by many women of her class, Elizabeth would have been embarrassed to be seen in such homely clothing, and only wore it when taking care of Helena’s beloved roses.

Allowing her song to gently fade away, the girl lifted her head and looked up into the clear blue sky, a tender smile forming upon her lips. It was such a beautiful day. The sun was warm, the breeze was cool, the birds sang sweetly, and the heavenly scent of roses surrounded her like a silken cloak. It was during moments like this that Elizabeth felt as though her sister was still with her, watching over her from the heavenly garden of paradise. She remembered what Helena had said to her the day before her wedding: “Dear Eliza, you must see that my roses are taken care of. I do love them so.” Since that day, Elizabeth had tended to the roses herself. It was her own way of paying homage to the sister she had so loved, whom she credited with forming her mind and teaching her the proper respect for honor and morality. It had been Helena who had opened her eyes to the beauties of nature, and it made Elizabeth happy to keep her roses healthy and ever blooming.

Rising to her feet, the young woman began to carefully snip off old and withered blossoms from the bushes and vines which surrounded her, allowing her mind to wander. Her uncle the duke had not visited her family for two months, and she was beginning to feel how much she had come to enjoy and depend upon his visits. Elizabeth had been a mere child of twelve when he and her sister married, and during her sister’s lifetime the girl was too shy and too much in awe of her uncle to become especially friendly with him. But she knew from seeing them together, and from reading Helena’s frequent letters, that Dominic worshiped her and treated her like a queen, and how could Elizabeth not love and respect one who was so kind to her sister? It was after the duchess’ tragic death that everything changed. Dominic and the Arthans had each been devastated by the loss of one so beloved, and the two naturally leaned upon each other for support. Elizabeth especially became a comfort to the duke, and he to her, as they tried to cope with the sudden void in their lives. Pitying and sympathizing with her uncle’s grief, she attempted to soothe and distract him from his sorrow, playing the harp, singing, reading aloud, and having long conversations with him. Elizabeth did not realize she did these things to also distract herself, but perhaps he did, for he seemed very kind and grateful for her efforts. Dominic and his niece would often praise Helena together, remembering all of her virtues and the great difference she had made in so many lives. Elizabeth had become very like Helena in both appearance and personality, though it was argued that her beauty had succeeded in surpassing her sister’s. Elizabeth also had a touch more passion in her nature than Helena, ardently discussing a topic she felt strongly about, while Helena would have simply smiled and nodded. Elizabeth respected her uncle greatly for his willingness to treat all his subjects as equals, encouraging him in his efforts to defend the lower classes against the crimes of the nobility. Though in many ways they became familiar with each other, the girl never forgot that Dominic was the ruler of all Arcaia, and thus to be treated with respect. She would curtsy and address him as “Your Grace” and sometimes “Uncle” if he permitted her. Never would she have dared to call him by his birth name.

This mutual support succeeded in lightening the darkness of their grief, and when the official year of mourning was over, each felt as if it would indeed be possible to recover from their loss. Dominic had continued to visit the family at Rose Mead until two months ago when these happy calls had suddenly stopped. He had occasionally written to her mother and father, but the letters had been private and she supposed that they had contained information on some delicate diplomatic matter. Perhaps his royal duties consumed most of his time and he was unable to leave the city? Elizabeth thought of many excuses for his long absence, but it would have been much too forward of her to have written and asked, so the reason remained a mystery. She had begun to miss his presence, and had tried to keep herself busy so she would not think of him. She had heard the rumors that he was about to propose marriage to one of his remaining nieces, and several courtiers had hinted broadly to Elizabeth that she was to be the next duchess. But she had never believed these claims. After all, she had many cousins whom she believed to be far worthier than her, and after experiencing Helena’s perfections, how could the duke ever think of her as a wife?

 

[Baelnorn]

It was early morning - the sun had not yet risen above the horizon - when Duke Dominic Lieste was already sitting at the window of his private chambers. Slowly the sky began to turn to a fiery red, heralding the soon to follow sunrise and start of a new day. Dominic sipped at his glass of water, never taking his eyes off the beautiful sky over his realm. It was several months ago that he made a habit of getting up early and watching the sunrise. Not only did he enjoy the peace and serenity of the sight, it was also a wonderful time to think about problems and impending decisions. Decisions...

It has already been seventeen months since the death of his beloved wife Helena. Her passing had broken his heart and plunged him and the duchy into a year of mourning. With a deep sigh he sipped at his glass again and recalled the fond memories he had of his wife. He recalled the sight of her beautiful eyes and her soft smile, the sound of her cheerful laughter, the wit in her stories and songs. The year of mourning was long over and yet he still had not decided to marry again. The duke knew that his advisors were right and that he needed to chose a new wife. He also knew that his heart had already chosen and he only needed to convince his mind as well to take the final step and propose to her.

When he started thinking about Lady Elizabeth a warm smile appeared on his lips. The girl he knew for several years had blossomed into a wonderful young woman who easily rivalled his late wife in beauty, passion and sharp mind. Elizabeth had the same bright blue eyes and fiery red hair as Helena had, and from the long talks they shared he could tell that under the innocent and demure demeanor there was a passionate, clever and strong willed woman who had captured his heart without him even realizing it. Dominic and Elizabeth had grown closer during their common mourning for Helena's death and the duke had grown fond of having her around. He really enjoyed the time they spent together and loved listening to Elizabeth singing or telling stories or reading. It was this fondness of her that made him sad about not being able to visit her for the last two months, but affairs of the state had kept him busy all the time until now. Dominic finished the rest of his glass just as the sun slowly rose over the far mountains and torched his realm in a bright golden glow. The rays of the sun warming his face through the window he stood up and closed his eyes, enjoying the warmth on his skin. He took another deep breath and decided that he would visit Rose Mead and make his decision known.

~*~

Duke Dominic had just arrived at Rose Mead and the sweet smell of the big garden with all its wonderful flowers was already greeting him at the front door. He was heartily welcomed by his sister Anabella and her husband Lionel and led to the library where they could talk in private while having a glass of wine. He apologized for having been too busy to visit sooner and then disclosed his decision to ask for the hand of Lady Elizabeth Arthan. Now it was official what has been hinted at by many of his letters, and looking back at his words it was obvious that his heart had chosen pretty early without his mind knowing. His sister and her husband were overjoyed that Elizabeth would be the next Duchess and wanted to send for her but Dominic asked to be able to see her and ask her personally. When they told him that she was in the garden tending to the roses and not dressed appropriately to see him he simply smiled and replied, "Lady Elizabeth is such a beautiful and fine young woman she could be wearing rags and still would be dressed appropriately."

Dominic was shown the way to the part of the garden where Elizabeth was working and then asked to be left alone with her. He walked around searching for his wife to be, and when he had found her just stood there and watched her. She had not noticed him approaching, otherwise she would have likely jumped to her feet to greet him, but this gave him the chance to watch her tending to the rose bushes Helena had loved so much. Elizabeth's movements were careful and yet determined, speaking of a person who knew exactly what she was doing and doing it with great care and love. Dominic let his eyes wander over her form and recalled the words he had told Elizabeth's parents earlier. He now realized how true they had been - even with her simple working gown she looked so incredibly beautiful.

Quietly he walked closer to her, a playful smile appearing on his lips as he thought about her reaction. He knew that she was very demure and shy around him, showing the greatest respect to him. She always called him by his title or "Uncle" and never ever had called him by his name. Whenever they met she had always taken great care that everything was as expected and she never appeared unprepared before him. When they were talking her cheeks often blushed, especially when he addressed her directly in front of others. He was only a few more yards away from her when he felt the small box in his pocket with his left hand and couldn't yet decide whether he wanted to wait a little longer or talk to her right now.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Elizabeth was so absorbed with her own thoughts and emotions that she did not hear the footsteps behind her, completely unaware of her uncle’s presence. Continuing to snip away dead blossoms and straying branches, she suddenly noticed the long masculine shadow which the morning sun had cast beside her. Thinking it to be that of the head gardener, and out of reach of her gardening basket, the girl did not bother to turn around, instead asking “Jacobs, could you please hand me the larger shears from my basket? This branch is very tough.” When the servant made no reply and the shears were not provided, Elizabeth was surprised and repeated “Jacobs?” before turning her head to face him.

The moment she set eyes upon the figure, the girl’s blue eyes went wide with shock and the color drained away from her face, realizing to her horror that the man she had mistaken for a humble gardener was in fact her uncle, Duke Dominic Lieste, ruler of all Arcaia. Elizabeth froze, her lovely face a pale mask of distress as she realized how she had addressed him, how she had turned her back to him, how she had not shown obeisance in his presence, and how poorly she must have appeared in her homely work dress. In another instant the girl’s cheeks had flushed red with shame and mortification, and Elizabeth at once stood and faced her sovereign, clearly embarrassed as she rapidly dropped her shears and removed her hat and gloves. Curtsying as gracefully as her anxious state would allow, she spoke hurriedly, her voice full of dismay and her blue eyes downcast. “Y-Your Grace! Oh, oh please forgive me. Had I known it was you… had I known you were coming…” Elizabeth looked down at her simple brown dress and felt ready to weep with shame, attempting to swallow down her emotions before continuing “… I… I would have dressed and conducted myself in a manner more worthy of you. Please… accept my apology and think not the worse of me.”

 

[Baelnorn]

The duke stood there silently and kept watching Elizabeth at her gardening task until she seemed to notice him. When she called him "Jacobs" and asked for the large shear from her basket his smile widened but he remained silent. After a few moments of his silence she turned around and within a single heart beat of her eyes focusing on him all color seems to leave her face only to be replaced by a full shade of embarrassment.

While Dominic had wanted to see her a bit surprised, he hadn't wanted to shock and scare her this way. She really took the whole situation gravely serious, ashamed of her apparal and her eyes downcast and ready to spill tears. This was supposed to be a wonderful happy day for her, not a day that makes her cry. He watched her curtsying and listened to her apology before he stepped closer and took her small hands in his, giving her a gentle squeeze.

"Hello Elizabeth. There is nothing to apologize for and I certainly won't every think badly of you. In fact it is me who should apologize for sneaking up on you and disturbing you so much. Please, don't be dismayed or embarrassed. Believe me when I say that even with this simple gown you look wonderful."

He released her hands and moved his right hand to her face, tenderly carressing her cheek. He gave her head a very soft push to encourage her to raise her gaze and look up at him.

"I thought my visit would make you happy, not sad. Please Elizabeth, show me your beautiful smile. I can't bear to see you so unhappy."

Dominic once more softly stroked her cheek and smiled at her, hoping that she would calm down and silently contemplating his next step. Should he just ask her here? Should they return to the manor and refresh themselves and dress formally? The duke didn't like the latter thought at all. This was something very personal and intimate, and he didn't want those usual noble formalities getting in their way. He was used to royalty and merchants hiding behind big words and empty phrases - a little too much for his taste - and he wanted their following conversation to be as open and honest as possible.

"My dear Elizabeth, would you grant me the honor of accompanying me on a short walk in the garden? There is something I wanted to talk about with you, and I would love to do so in the garden you tend to so well."

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Elizabeth’s eyes remained downcast as her uncle approached, afraid that her self control would crumble if she dared to meet his gaze. His strong hands took hers in a gentle, reassuring grip, and the girl felt as though waves of comforting warmth radiated from his touch. His voice, the voice she so loved to listen to, was filled with the same soothing gentleness, and the girl could feel her overpowering shame begin to melt away.

"Hello Elizabeth. There is nothing to apologize for and I certainly won't every think badly of you. In fact it is me who should apologize for sneaking up on you and disturbing you so much. Please, don't be dismayed or embarrassed. Believe me when I say that even with this simple gown you look wonderful."

Elizabeth’s heart seemed to skip a beat at her uncle’s words, the knowledge that he approved of her even in her simple attire flooding her with relief and happiness. Her face obeyed his gentle caress and looked up into his, their eyes meeting for the first time in two long months. Elizabeth saw truth and affection in her sovereign’s gaze, truth and affection which doubled as he spoke again.

"I thought my visit would make you happy, not sad. Please Elizabeth, show me your beautiful smile. I can't bear to see you so unhappy."

Unable to stop herself, even if his request had remained unsaid, Elizabeth’s rosy lips formed into a sweet, shy smile, her blue eyes shining with renewed joy and a touch of bashfulness. She looked beautiful at that moment, the color of her cheeks and lips accentuated by the redness of her hair. Elizabeth should have known that the duke would have accepted her in any state of humble dress, and she now felt a little silly for doubting it. Still, if she had known he would be visiting that day, she would have taken extra care to look her best for him.

"My dear Elizabeth, would you grant me the honor of accompanying me on a short walk in the garden? There is something I wanted to talk about with you, and I would love to do so in the garden you tend to so well."

Elizabeth’s blue eyes widened with slight surprise at his wishing to speak to her alone, but in the next moment she had nodded, her expression still one of gentle happiness. She was touched by his praise of her gardening, her cheeks coloring a very pretty pink as she replied “Yes, of course, Your Grace. I would be most happy to walk with you in our garden. It… it is so lovely this time of year.” Allowing her uncle to lead their walk amongst the heavenly scented blossoms, Elizabeth paused before shyly continuing “Your presence does make me happy, Your Grace. It has been so long since your last visit, and I…” Her cheeks flushed slightly deeper. “…my family and I have felt your absence. I… I feared that you would miss our roses this year. But…” Elizabeth looked once more up into her uncle’s face, her blue eyes and rosy lips full of the wish to aid him if possible. “… I hope it is not distress which has brought you to us.”

 

[Baelnorn]

Dominic's smile widened when he noticed that Elizabeth was calming down and when she finally smiled he let out a soft laugh.

"That is much better my dear Elizabeth. This wonderful smile makes you even more beautiful and suits your face much better."

The duke listened to her words, enjoying the soft sound of her voice. She sounded much more relaxed and happy now and Dominic enjoyed their walk together greatly. What he was about to tell her soon was probably more than a shock for her and he really did not want to agitate her more than necessary.

"Yes, of course, Your Grace. I would be most happy to walk with you in our garden. It... it is so lovely this time of year. Your presence does make me happy, Your Grace. It has been so long since your last visit, and I... my family and I have felt your absence. I... I feared that you would miss our roses this year. But... I hope it is not distress which has brought you to us."

Dominic turned to Elizabeth and smiled at her at her warm and kind words, taking her hands in his and holding them softly. He could feel the tenderness and warmth of her skin even though she has been working in the garden for quite some time today already. As he continued he led them further through the garden towards a small garden bench.

"I am glad that you enjoy my visit, even after the little surprise I gave you earlier. I know that I have been absent for a long time, and many important decisions have kept me too busy to pay your family even a short visit. But I have some time on my hand now and I cannot imagine any other way than spending it here. You can believe me that I would never miss seeing your roses and the rest of this magnificent garden. You really have a hand for flowers, Elizabeth."

Finally they reached the bench and the duke sat down, offering the young woman to sit by his side.

"Oh no, absolutely not. Do not worry, the reason why I am here is a very happy one indeed. Perhaps you have heard the rumors that have been spreading for several weeks now. That I would soon marry again. I can tell you that those rumors are indeed true. I will marry again, and I've already chosen my future wife. She is incredibly beautiful, with a sharp mind, and very talented in storytelling, discussion and song."

Dominic could see that with each of his words she was getting more and more uncomfortable although she was trying hard to hide it. She was probably thinking that he wanted to tell her that he had chosen someone else. He knew that she was so modest and shy that she would likely not guess that it was her he wanted to take as his wife. Seeing that her eyes were cast down again he decided that now was as good as ever and that more words would just make it worse for her. With a soft smile on his lips he got up and stood right in front of her before he sank down to one knee and looked up into her utterly confused eyes.

"Lady Elizabeth Arthan, do you want to become my wife? My heart has chosen you before my mind ever got a chance to think about it. I cannot imagine any other woman by my side. You are everything I could ever hope to have in a wife - beauty and passion, education and culture, humor and wit."

To emphasize his words the duke reached into his pocket and pulled out the small dark blue box. He held it up to Elizabeth and opened it, showing her a beautifully crafted blue diamond solitaire ring.

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Elizabeth was unable to help from blushing deeper as her uncle once more took her hands in his, her fingers and palms as smooth and soft as silk despite her recent gardening. She allowed him to lead her toward one corner of the garden, where a small marble bench rested beneath an arbor of snowy pink roses. It was an intimate and romantic place, but the girl thought that her uncle had chosen it merely because it was hidden from prying eyes and ears. He had often taken her into his confidence, and it was an honor to trusted and respected by such a man.

"I am glad that you enjoy my visit, even after the little surprise I gave you earlier. I know that I have been absent for a long time, and many important decisions have kept me too busy to pay your family even a short visit. But I have some time on my hand now and I cannot imagine any other way than spending it here. You can believe me that I would never miss seeing your roses and the rest of this magnificent garden. You really have a hand for flowers, Elizabeth."

Smiling and allowing her eyes to fall bashfully away from him, Elizabeth felt immense pleasure from the duke’s compliment of her gardening. She did have a natural way with flowers, and to see Helena’s roses blooming more vigorously than ever filled her heart with joy. Her joy was increased by the delight her uncle also took in her efforts, and she was happy that despite how busy he had been over the last two months, he had been determined not to miss her flowers. When they at last reached the petal-strewn bench, Elizabeth followed Dominic’s lead and sat beside him, hoping that he would not see her closeness as an impropriety. She waited patiently for him to unburden his heart to her, her blue eyes filled with kindness and the readiness to listen.

"Oh no, absolutely not. Do not worry, the reason why I am here is a very happy one indeed. Perhaps you have heard the rumors that have been spreading for several weeks now. That I would soon marry again. I can tell you that those rumors are indeed true. I will marry again, and I've already chosen my future wife. She is incredibly beautiful, with a sharp mind, and very talented in storytelling, discussion and song."

Somewhat to her surprise, Elizabeth felt her heart sink at her uncle’s revelation, and though she tried to hide her feelings, her downcast eyes and the lessening color of her cheeks made them all too apparent. The girl was ashamed of herself. She had never once considered the possibility of him proposing to her, her modesty was too great to allow such a thought. But why was she not happy? Her uncle, her duke, her sovereign was about to remarry. It was a joyous occasion for all of Arcaia, but Elizabeth felt no joy in her heart. She thought of all her female cousins, how beautiful and talented they were. Mariana with her raven black hair and emerald eyes, Almira with her pale golden tresses and eyes like the sea, and so many other young women of equal beauty and grace. One of them would soon be their uncle’s bride, and Elizabeth prayed that this dark cloud within her breast would rise and allow her to congratulate the happy couple as she knew she should.

Now convinced that her uncle wished to consult her on the best way of proposing to her cousin, Elizabeth was just beginning to say “Your Grace, I congratulate you and wish you every j-“ when to her amazement the duke rose and stood before her, sinking down to one knee and looking up into her wide blue eyes. This was a dream. This could not be happening.

"Lady Elizabeth Arthan, do you want to become my wife? My heart has chosen you before my mind ever got a chance to think about it. I cannot imagine any other woman by my side. You are everything I could ever hope to have in a wife - beauty and passion, education and culture, humor and wit."

Elizabeth could not believe what was happening, her shock evident in her face and her heart pounding within her chest. Was it true? Was her uncle, her sovereign, Duke Dominic Lieste of Arcaia actually asking for her hand in marriage? She was so unworthy of so great an honor that she believed herself to be mistaken, but when he presented her with the betrothal ring, exactly the same as the one he had given Helena, Elizabeth knew that there was no mistake. First the blood seemed to drain from her cheeks, then return with an even greater color than before, and for a moment the girl believed she was about to faint. Praying to all of the gods and saints to support her, Elizabeth regained her strength, a flood of suppressed emotion seeming to overflow her heart.

It was all so clear now. Her growing affection for him, his growing affection for her. Their need to cling to each other after their painful loss. His frequent visits, in which she felt so happy and honored to be in his confidence. Her heart had been too humble and too afraid to admit her growing attachment to him, but now the girl saw all with stunning clarity. Elizabeth knew that there was no other man in creation who she respected and admired so greatly, no man whose company she valued more. In no man but her uncle did she see her future husband, lover, and the father of her children. She had the capability of ardent love and enduring passion, and she now knew that the only man she could ever shower these feelings upon was Duke Dominic Lieste.

Despite her joy and astonishment, Elizabeth could feel a little of her original self-doubt return, fearing that perhaps her uncle wished to marry her merely out of loyalty to her sister. In a voice trembling with emotion, with eyes shining with affection and solemnity, she at last replied “Oh, Uncle… how can one respond to such an honor? Never would I have believed myself to have touched you so. But be careful. Is this the true wish of your heart? Do you truly care for me? Do you truly wish for me to be your life’s partner? I am so unworthy, and can never hope to equal Helena’s perfections. Uncle, think before you answer, for if I accept your hand now, I fear I will never be able to relinquish it.”

 

[Baelnorn]

Dominic was still kneeling before her, holding up the ring and watching her closely. It seemed to take a moment for her to realize what he had said, but when all color drained from her face he was ready to jump up and catch her if she should faint. But a moment later her cheeks turned to a strong rosy blush and she answered his request.

"Oh, Uncle... how can one responde to such an honor? Never would I have believed myself to have touched you so. But be careful. Is this the true wish of your heart? Do you truly care for me? Do you truly wish for me to be your life’s partner? I am so unworthy, and can never hope to equal Helena’s perfections. Uncle, think before you answer, for if I accept your hand now, I fear I will never be able to relinquish it."

The duke smiled at her when he heard her words. He knew that she was torn between her affection for him and her modesty.

"Elizabeth, my dear, would I ask you if I did not really want you? Of course I truly care for you, of course I wish you and me to spend the rest of our lives together. You are not unworth, please stop thinking in such ways. You are a strong willed, well educated and very beautiful young woman that is more than worthy to be the next Duchess of Arcaia."

He took a deep breath before continuing.

"You know, your sister Helena, the saints bless her, taught me a very valuable lesson when she was still alive. She taught me that none of us is perfect. We all have our flaws and failings, even and especially myself. Sure, we can try and hide those flaws, try to maintain a mask of false perfection for our pride or for others' perception. But underneath whatever masks we attempt to wear we are all still human. And therefore I do not even want you to try and replace Helena, since that is impossible. I want you to be yourself. I want you to be my wife and support me with your love and knowledge."

Dominic smiled up at her, his hopes of her accepting growing with each passing moment. He hoped that his words would win her over from her modesty and shyness.

"I would be very happy if you accepted my proposal here and now, but if you need more time to think about it I will of course give you the time you need to make your decision."

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Elizabeth had almost expected Dominic to withdraw his offer after she pleaded for him to reconsider, but his honest smile and the warmth of his voice convinced her that she was truly his heart’s desire.

"Elizabeth, my dear, would I ask you if I did not really want you? Of course I truly care for you, of course I wish you and me to spend the rest of our lives together. You are not unworthy, please stop thinking in such ways. You are a strong willed, well educated and very beautiful young woman that is more than worthy to be the next Duchess of Arcaia."

The girl could feel her heart throbbing within her breast, her uncle’s every word filling every cell of her body with blissful, tingling warmth. Happiness, tenderness, affection, wonder, devotion, admiration, passion, and an increasing joy seemed to sing within her soul, and Elizabeth sat in enthralled silence as the man she had known and respected for so long opened his heart to her.

"You know, your sister Helena, the saints bless her, taught me a very valuable lesson when she was still alive. She taught me that none of us is perfect. We all have our flaws and failings, even and especially myself. Sure, we can try and hide those flaws, try to maintain a mask of false perfection for our pride or for others' perception. But underneath whatever masks we attempt to wear we are all still human. And therefore I do not even want you to try and replace Helena, since that is impossible. I want you to be yourself. I want you to be my wife and support me with your love and knowledge."

Oh, how she adored the sound of his voice! Each word was like a blessed gift of heaven, and to know that he loved her despite her flaws, that he loved her for herself… what could equal her happiness? She had been so afraid that her failure to be a second Helena would cause him to eventually despise her, but she now knew that her uncle loved and wanted her as Elizabeth, and this relieved the girl more than she could even hope to convey. Elizabeth could almost feel her beloved sister smiling down upon them from paradise, blessing their union and freeing the girl of all doubt. It was meant to be. It was destiny.

"I would be very happy if you accepted my proposal here and now, but if you need more time to think about it I will of course give you the time you need to make your decision."

Her blue eyes shining with adoration, her lovely face radiant with joy, Elizabeth spoke, her soft, sweet voice full of warmth and affection. “That will not be necessary, Your Grace. You have convinced me that it is truly the wish of your heart to be my husband, and if so worthy and wonderful a man as yourself desires my hand, who am I to refuse? Yes, Your Grace, I will be your wife in all love and loyalty.” Elizabeth’s eyes began to sparkle with happy tears, her voice trembling as she exclaimed “Oh, Uncle… how happy we shall be!”

 

[Baelnorn]

Dominic could see his words visibly affecting her, making her expression lighten up and her smile becoming even more beautiful. And when she finally spoke the words he so much hoped to hear from her lips his own smile grew also wider.

"That will not be necessary, Your Grace. You have convinced me that it is truly the wish of your heart to be my husband, and if so worthy and wonderful a man as yourself desires my hand, who am I to refuse? Yes, Your Grace, I will be your wife in all love and loyalty."

The duke could see her eyes sparkling with tears of joy and happiness when he carefully took the ring out of its confines and reached for her hand. The moment their fingers touched was as if a tiny spark raced over their skin, leaving a strange but welcome sensation behind. Elizabeth's voice trembled when he slowly and gently slid the ring over her finger.

"Oh, Uncle... how happy we shall be!"

He rose from his kneeling position and stood before her, smiling softly with his own eyes welling up he whispered to her. His hands were gently holding and squeezing hers and his fingers softly rubbed the smooth skin of her palms.

"Please take this ring as the promise of my love and our marriage."

Dominic needed to take a deep breath and blinked a few tears of happiness away.

"Thank you Elizabeth. Thank you for accepting. This is the happiest day in my life since Helena's passed away. I know she would be so proud of you, Elizabeth. But what do you think of going back to the manor and properly celebrating this happy day?"

 

[Lots_Daughter]

Elizabeth could feel her knees weaken as her uncle – her betrothed – gently took her hand in his, the merest touch of his flesh upon hers causing a warm, electric shiver to race up and down her spine. Her heart throbbed as Dominic slowly slid the ring upon her finger, the blue gem sparkling as brightly as the girl’s beautiful blue eyes. Those eyes glittered with happy tears as her sovereign rose and stood before her, his own dark eyes beginning to shine with the same joyful emotion.

"Please take this ring as the promise of my love and our marriage."

Oh, to be loved by so great a man! What had she done to deserve him? Elizabeth longed to be held closely in his arms, to feel the steady beat of his noble heart, but it was too much to ask from a duke who had only just proposed to her. Once they were married, they could embrace to their heart’s content. The girl remained in enthralled silence, unable to think of a single word which could accurately describe the happiness in her heart.

"Thank you Elizabeth. Thank you for accepting. This is the happiest day in my life since Helena's passed away. I know she would be so proud of you, Elizabeth. But what do you think of going back to the manor and properly celebrating this happy day?"

The thought of Helena smiling down upon them filled Elizabeth with an even greater assurance that their union was blessed, that the gods themselves sanctioned the joining of their souls. The mention of her family brought an even greater beauty to her already radiant face, and the girl eagerly exclaimed “Oh, yes, Uncle. Mother and Father will be so happy… Let us go to them at once!” A sweet, shy blush overspread her cheeks, Elizabeth the picture of bashful beauty as she asked “Do my parents know you are here? Did they know you meant to ask for my hand?”

 

[Baelnorn]

Dominic also smiled softly and happily as Elizabeth smile beamed even more joyfully and she exclaimed for them to quickly see her parents.

"Oh, yes, Uncle. Mother and Father will be so happy... Let us go to them at once!"

"Yes, my dear, let's go back. I'm sure they will be very happy about the news."

He nodded and offered her his left arm, smiling as she took it and soon they were walking back the same path they had come earlier. The duke put his hand on Elizabeth's and reassuringly squeezed her fingers, feeling her smooth and warm skin against his own.

As they walked his thoughts started to wander and in his mind he imagined them standing in the palace garden during the ceremony and how beautiful Elizabeth would look in her wedding gown. It was her voice that brought him back before his mind dared imagine things even further in the future.

"Do my parents know you are here? Did they know you meant to ask for my hand?"

Dominic looked at her and after a moment of thought nodded.

"Yes, I talked with them for some time before coming out to talk with you alone and ask you. Even as a man with my rank, especially as a man with my rank, I dare not to break with our country's traditions. For centuries it's been custom for the suitor to ask his love's parents for their blessing of the marriage. I would not have been correct of me to ask you first and then surprise your parents with our engagement, even when they probably still would have gladly supported it."

It didn't take long until the couple made it back to the family's manor, the old building rising from the ground some small distance away but already clearly visible against the horizon. As Dominic and Elizabeth approached Rose Mead they noticed Anabella and Lionel sitting on the terrace and enjoying the wonderful afternoon.

The duke nodded at his sister with a happy smile on his lips and released Elizabeth's hand from his hold, allowing her to walk on her own since he could tell that she was torn between running up to them to tell them what had happened and staying with him. Dominic smiled at his bride-to-be and spoke to her with a happy voice.

"Run, Elizabeth, run and tell them your answer! I'm sure they are eager to hear of your decision."



--[ OOC: Scene abandoned ]--