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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 29, 2019 11:18:12 GMT -5
Elijah sat quietly as he watched Selma comb through his hair in the mirror. When she thanked him he raised a brow slightly. He then gave a soft sigh as he stood and turned to her. He took the comb from her hand and set it upon the dresser before he cleared his throat. “It wouldn’t have mattered what outfit you chose.” He spoke as he leaned his hips against the dresser once again. He watched her carefully for a moment. “The queen simply wanted to show her dominance. You’re a servant and we are the royal family.” He crossed his arms over his chest, “The wall between the lower and upper class is quite thick, as I am sure you are aware.” He paused another moment as if he was planning his words carefully. “That bracelet upon your wrist, it is constantly drawing you magic from you, constantly draining you. Have you seen what happens to servants that anger their masters? Have you seen the contraptions that have been built? It is torture.” He drew his brows together and shook his head.
“Yet if you try to remove it, you’ll die. That’s what I’ve heard at least.” He moved to a desk across the room and slid the drawer open. He pulled out one of the silver bands and flipped it around in his hands. “I’ve studied the things for years.” He held it out to her. Upon the inside the gears and inner workings of the band could be seen. It was magical piece created by the upper class. It was nothing more than to keep the lower class separated. “I’ve asked why for years.” He spoke as he drew his brows together a bit more. “What good does it do for us to be so separate? What is so different?” He scoffed slightly as he took the bracelet back and tucked it away once again. The band had belonged to Lilly. He’d taken it off of her after she was murdered before his eyes, specks of blood still remained on the metal.
“You’re my servant, so what I tell you to do, is what you must do.” He looked to her. “However I do not wish to order you around like a dog and to beat you such as the queen would do.” He shook his head. “You live in fear...what good does that do?” He raised a brow slightly. The prince took in a deep breath and his lips parted to speak again just as the door was pushed open. His eyes moved to the door then.
“Elijah.” The queen spoke a smile upon her lips. She stepped forward and brushed her fingers through his hair before she gripped his chin slightly. She pushed his head from side to side as if she was inspecting him. Then the queen brushed his jacket down with her hands. The woman turned then and her gaze fell upon Selma. “Well, it seems you’ve learned something from Fallon.” She spoke as she looked back to her son. “Why don’t you get rid of this unsightly hair upon your face son? You’ll look younger, and more attractive for Melanie.” She pat his cheek with a smirk. “You can handle that, can’t you servant?” She asked as she glared to Selma. “Nice and clean.” She stepped forward and stood directly in front of Selma. “Don’t miss a hair.” She seemed to threaten, “Oh, and don’t cut my dear son’s face. If you screw this up...” She grinned then as a sort of cackle came over her lips. “Ah well, I shall let your mind tell you what it is that will happen to you, girl.” She turned to her son. “Tonight you shall be handsome.” She nodded and pat his shoulder. “The most handsome man in the room, our future king.” She then stepped from the room.
The prince let out a breath as an irritated expression washed over his face. He stepped over to a wash basin and poured water into it before he snapped his fingers and the water began to steam. He then set it upon his dresser before he pulled a razor from a drawer and he looked to Selma. “I’ll cut myself if I do it.” He let out a slight laugh before he sighed and sat down.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 29, 2019 13:22:40 GMT -5
When Elijah asked if she knew the consequences for angering the masters who controlled the lower class she couldnt help but to grip the bracelet on her own wrist. She had felt that pain only once in her lifetime. When she was a young girl with a strong head who challenged to many times. She was subjected to the drain for a full day and still had to work her normal duties. It had been absolute hell and ever since then she had no desire to disobey anyone and became much more mild tempered.
Looking at the gears and such of Lilly's bracelet hearing that Elijah had been asking for their purpose she felt a twinge of nervousness come over here. Those were dangerous questions to ask. The given answer was that the lower class didn't know how to use magic since they had no formal education for them. Since they didnt know how to use it they could give their power to the city and help make the rich more comfortable.
When the Queen entered the room Selma straightened her posture, like Fallon had told her, and lowered her gaze. When she approved of Elijah's dress she was a bit relieved and nodded when she was instructed to shave his beard. "Of course Your Majesty." This time she wasnt reprimanded and when she left the prince immediately went to the wash bin in order to start this shave. When he admitted that he couldnt do it himself she cracked a small genuine smile and stepped up to stand next to him. "Dont worry, I've had a lot of practice."
She spent a moment mixing the latter that would coat and help protect his skin and applied it with a thick brush, placing a towel on his chest to prevent any from soiling his tunic, and gently tilted his head back before picking up the sharp razor. "Please try not to move." She told him as a general word of caution before beginning. As Slema worked her had was steady and her touch gentle. Whenever she needed him to angle his head she would guide him and give a small smile or nod when he held a good position. "During the festival I will make sure you are not bothered if you are speaking with Lady Melanie." She told him as she finished the last strip of hair left on his chin.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 29, 2019 13:56:33 GMT -5
Elijah cracked a smile when she tilted his head. “I would hope you know what you’re doing.” He laughed. He closed his eyes as she worked he hadn’t had a clean shaven face in a few years now, he’d hoped the queen would grow accustomed to it, his father had a beard after all but it seemed she hated him to have any hair upon his face. “Just don’t cut my throat, hm?” He smirked to her when she told him not to move.
He was quiet the rest of the time allowing her to move his head as she needed him to. Then when she spoke the line about making sure he wasn’t interrupted a chuckle came over his lips. He glanced to her and a smirk took over his expression. He pressed a warm towel to his face before he looked in the mirror. “I’m sure that the queen will be thankful to you for that, Selma.” He raised a brow as he looked to her. “Lady Melanie is of very noble blood.” He nodded though he sighed slightly. “We shall see just how interesting she is, hm? I’m certain her father has instructed her to speak to me as well, then again there will be several women there tonight to partake in the festival. Many have their eyes set on me as a prize. If I am to take their hand, well...wouldn’t you want to be queen?” He chuckled then. “That’s all it is, a stature, a name to place before your own. Nobility is nothing more than a birthright. To think if your family had stayed in Rahle, could it be possible that you would not be a servant?” He questioned curiously then shrugged. “Then again with the impending war with Rahle I would much rather be on the side of Phesa. We have the larger army with a much better armor than Rhale. We have more mages too that are willing to fight despite their nobility.”
Elijah looked to Selma then a moment, “I would appreciate plenty of ale as well.” He smirked, “It will help me get through this painful process.” A laugh came over his lips. “Anything that you think may help, I trust your judgement.” He spoke as he turned to head out the door.
The prince didn’t speak much as he walked down the hallway. They made their way to a carriage that sat in front of the manner. A knight stopped Selma and nodded to her. “You’ll sit with me on the front.”
“She may ride in the carriage with me.” The prince spoke as he looked to the knight whom bowed deeply as he opened the door.
“Of course your majesty.” He spoke as he awaited them to climb into the carriage.
The prince leaned back in the seat as they began forward his eyes looked out the window and they rode in silence. It didn’t take long for them to arrive at the event that was held in a grand hall in town. The prince climbed out and walked ahead of Selma he nodded his head to the many that spoke to him and greeted him as he entered the festival. Nobles were dressed in wonderful colors. Servants rushed about with trays of food and liquor. Music played cheerfully from the artists upon a small stage. It was a wonderful scene. The only lower class that were graced with attending were those whom were serving food.
“Your majesty.” A woman’s voice spoke. “Late, as usual.” She had strawberry blonde hair that tasseled down her back and a beautiful red dress on that accented her features.
Elijah turned his eyes to her and a forced smile curved up his lips. Though he played the smile as well as the violinist upon the stage. “Melanie.” He offered his hand forward to take her hand. “How wonderful it is to see you.” He kissed the back of her hand as he bowed deeply to her. His hand behind his back had a small flash of light and when he brought his hand forward a beautiful red rose was held within his fingertips. Elijah was quite good at magic, better than most nobles. He didn’t have to speak any spells for his magic, and some of the spells that he could conjure were rather difficult.
Melanie blushed as she took the rose from his fingertips. She reached forward and cupped his cheek. “Swooning me already?” She chuckled.
Elijah smirked to her as he wrapped an arm around her waist. “But of course. Shall we dance?” He questioned as he led her into the crowd. Melanie giggled as she leaned into him. It was clear however that both Melanie and Elijah weren’t truly interested in one another. His smile would drop every now and again as they danced through the night. Elijah spun Melanie out and then pulled her in with a smirk. "So I'm going to assume that your father would also like you to marry me. Is that a correct assumption?" He gazed into her eyes.
"My prince." A woman spoke just as the song ended. She stood with a soft smile. "May I have a dance with you? You've given all your attention to this single woman. How will you know who it is that you want to marry if you do not meet any of your other guests?" She questioned.
Elijah sucked in a breath as he looked to the woman. His eyes glanced to the queen whom eyed them from the stage. He bit his lip slightly as he thought quickly of an excuse that he could use to push the woman away. As much as he did not care for Melanie, he would follow the plan that the king and queen had already formulated. Once he was king he would have more say in how things ran.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 29, 2019 19:49:42 GMT -5
Being able to ride inside the carriage was a different experience. The plush seats and soft materials were divine in their sensation. While the Prince watch out the window she busied herself by running her fingers on the seat next to her and admiring the craftmanship. When they arrived at the festival and she climbed out of the carriage after the Prince the footman gave her a confused expression but kept his comments to himself as she passed.
Once inside she was overwhelmed with the sound of voices and music that played over the crowd. There was also the smell of perfumes, food and ale that when mixed together gave her the impression of a bar or brothel down in the village. It was a very unsettling realization to have the uncanny comparison between the rich and poor. Of course it didnt take long before the women of the festival came to greet the Prince and Melanie made herself known. She was a pretty woman, as most noblewomen were, and carried herself with dignity and confidence. She was a perfect specimen for a Prince to consider for marriage.
When they began their dance Selma kept her distance but also watched to make sure no one interrupted them. Her diligence left her open to something she didn't expect, however, and as she got lost in swaying to the music and counting the Prince's steps she heard a voice speak beside her. "May I have this dance, love?" It was a strange voice and one that almost didnt seem real until she turned and saw a man looking at her with a charming smile. "I'm sorry?" She asked thinking he had addressed her by mistake.
"May I have this dance?" He asked though this time the voice was deeper and more gruff in nature. Almost as if he hadn't asked the first question.
"I'm sorry. I'm only a hand maiden to the Prince. I dont think.." she started to explain.
"I know who you are." The man stated, cutting her off. "The Prince is busy and taken care of. I will also see to it that my own attended tales care of him, should the need arise." He motioned to a small woman behind him, sharply dressed, long black hair, and soft brown eyes. "I for one desire a dance with you and I hope you wont disappoint me by turning away a guest of the festival."
Selma hesitated a moment as she looked at the man who held his hand outstretched for her to take. She felt a knot form in her stomach as she was caught in the difficult situation. If the Queen spotted her she would get punished, if she refused she would still get punished. The man stepped closer and as a reaction she simply took his hand to prevent him from striking out at her to which he smiled and pulled her out to the dance floor.
"So glad you agreed." He told her and flashed another charming smile. When they were far enough out he pulled Selma in close and placed his hand upon the small of her back and placed her hand on his shoulder. "Closer the better I always say." Then he pulled her into the steps and lead them across the floor in a graceful motion. Slema tried to watch for Elijah as they danced but the way he spun her prevented her from being able to see the Prince very well. "So troubling when I have a woman in my arms and she has eyes for another man." He commented which cause Selma to bring her attention forward again. "My dear Selma, you have fallen so far from your prior grace." He seemed to carry pity in his words.
"I'm sorry, but have we met before?" She asked, confused.
"A very very long time ago my dear." He answered with a smile. "I want to restore you to your former glory, if you agree to come with me after the dance that is."
"I.. I dont think.."
"Shh, no need to reply. It's a simple choice. Stay here and work for the prince until the queen tires of you or come with me and live a wonderful and fulfilling life."
Slema was stunned. She didnt know who this man was or what he was talking about. She couldnt just leave the Prince. Death would surely be her punishment and the crime of stealing a servant was also very high. Surely, this man was drunk or insane.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 29, 2019 20:17:17 GMT -5
“I can’t be taking all of the prince’s attention this evening.” Melanie spoke with a smirk. She leaned up and placed a peck upon the prince’s cheek, her hand rest upon his chest as she leaned up to his ear. “Come find me when you’re finished, Elijah.” She whispered before she walked off, her fingers trailed along his arm.
Elijah found himself looking after Melanie for a moment until he heard the woman that stood before him clear her throat. He turned and offered a warm smile before he held out his hand, “Shall we?” He asked as his eyes locked on hers. It was from there that he danced with her. Though he found his eyes looking about, where had Selma been? She was so confident that she’d keep the other women away from him and Melanie. Though after a few dances and several drinks later the prince didn’t seem to have much of a care in the world. He twirled the current woman around in his arms as he chuckled. Their bodies moved fluidly together and once the song finished the prince released the woman.
There was a tapping of glass upon the stage, the king and queen stood in linked arms. Elijah looked up to his mother a smile upon his lips. The alcohol had chased away any cares he may have had. The queen stepped forward. “Dear people of Phesa, noble lords and ladies.” She greeted them with a smile. “This evening has been delightful as we celebrate those that we have lost, and those that have come anew.” She raised her glass of wine as she crowd cheered. “This evening is a special one. My son is in the crowd among you as most have already come to realize. Tonight he will begin in his careful selection for the future queen of Phesa. So join us in this celebration of life and death.” She raised her glass again before she took a long drink. The crowd cheered wildly and music began once again.
The prince stepped through the crowd he staggered slightly. Though his eyes caught something. He drew his brows together as he moved through the people and he caught the shoulder of a man. “I do believe.” He spoke as his eyes locked on Selma. “That you’ve stolen my personal servant sir.” He tilted his head slightly. “Out of a room full of nobles you’ve chosen to dance with her?” He questioned.
“Your highness.” A woman tried to get his attention.
Elijah let out a heavy breath his eyes glared to the man a moment. “She does not belong to you sir, do not think that she does.” He was protecting Selma it seemed. “Selma, would you like to come with me?” He asked as he looked to her. Someone else tried to get the prince’s attention but his eyes stayed upon Selma, he offered his hand forward to her.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 29, 2019 20:53:38 GMT -5
The dances became more festive and fast paced and the man did not release his hold on Selma. He spoke of the wonderous life she would have with him and of his riches. The more he talked the more she was convinced he was bluffing or drunk. She tried to pull away but one time he even used a binding spell to keep her close to him and she was getting desperate. Crying out wouldnt help her as she was only a servant son she was trapped seemingly perpetually with this odd nobleman.
Then, like an answer to her prayers, she spotted Elijah and gave him a pleading look as he placed his hand on the man's shoulder. At first it didn't seem he was going to release his hold on her but then he smiled and nodded. "I apologize, Your Majesty, of course you may have your maiden back. She is just so very lovely." He lifted Selma's hand and passed her to Elijah and as soon as she was standing next to him she mouthed a thank you to him.
The man quickly bowed, turned on his heel, and disappeared into the crowd. "I'm so sorry, Your Highness, he wouldnt let me go." She admitted in a fluster and squeezed his hand slightly.
As she spoke she got a slight light headed feeling and felt as if she had left the festival and been transported somewhere far away. The feeling only lasted a split moment then she snapped back to reality. "I'm sorry if you were bothered.." her voice grew quiet and full of shame.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 29, 2019 21:23:19 GMT -5
When Selma’s hand was placed into his Elijah seemed to freeze in place for a moment. His eyes had fluttered as something washed over him. He looked to Selma with a strange gaze for a moment before he led her away from the dance floor. He glanced over his shoulder to spot the nobleman but he had disappeared into the crowd of nobles. He looked to Selma a moment then his attention had snapped to her as she spoke, he could hear the shame in her voice. “Selma.” He spoke her name softly, his hand finally slipped from hers. It seemed as though he wanted to speak of something but he only shook his head. “You shouldn’t be on the dance floor like that.” He glanced around slightly. A few nobles were watching him. From afar it would look as though he was punishing Selma. His hands were clasped before him, his brows tucked tightly together. “I do not want something to...”
A hand was placed upon his shoulder. “Your highness, tonight isn’t the time for punishing servants.” Melanie chuckled. “Though she is a pretty one, isn’t she?” She ran her hand along his shoulder blades. “Come, dance with me.” She tugged at his hand, when Elijah didn’t move she let out a sigh. “Fine, I’ll tell the queen you’re not interested.” She turned on her heel.
Elijah’s eyes widened, he looked to Selma a moment before he spun and caught Melanie’s hand. “Of course you know that isn’t the truth, hm?” He kissed the back of her hand and chuckled. “I merely had to set my servant straight. You know how it is. Can’t trust them.” It was a facade the way he spoke to Melanie. A simple act that he practiced his entire life, it was well rehearsed. “I’ll dance with you until the musicians stop playing.” He brushed a lock of hair from her eyes and smiled.
Melanie glanced to Selma a moment before she let out a chuckle. “We shouldn’t waste time then, my prince.” She wrapped her arms around his neck then.
Elijah placed his hands about her hips and they danced. He would find himself glancing about looking for Selma. Such a strange feeling had washed over him when he took her hand. It was a warmth that he’d never felt. Something different than anything before. It was a curious feeling. As the festival dwindled Elijah had Melanie upon his arm. She was to be a guest of his family for the evening. The queen had announced it as such toward the end of the festival. Several of the women shot glares to Melanie. She’d stolen the attention of Elijah for most of the evening. Making it nearly impossible for others to compete for his attention and possibly to gain his hand and become the next queen.
Elijah led Melanie out toward the carriage. “Selma.” He spoke and gave a weak smile. “You’ll ride up front, hm?” He nodded to her though it was clear that he didn’t really want to force her to ride outside of the carriage. He staggered slightly from the alcohol he’d had before he helped Melanie into the back of the carriage. She wrapped her arms around him, clearly infatuated. Or maybe it was the alcohol? Her giggles filled the carriage and yet all Elijah could think of was the touch of Selma’s hand. Once they arrived Elijah climbed from the carriage and helped Melanie up the stairs into the home. He led her forward and gave a gentle kissed to her forehead before he’d handed her off to a hand maiden that the queen had supplied to take care of Melanie while she stayed.
The prince looked to Selma a moment before he motioned for her to come with him. He chuckled slightly to his miss steps that he made finding humor in it. He didn’t always drink as much as he had tonight at the festival. But drinking more made these things easier. The prince paused before his door and opened it he looked to Selma a moment before he entered his room. He closed the door behind them and he let out a long breath. He stepped to her and reached forward. His hand grasped ahold of hers and he looked over her small hand within his. He drew his brows together as he flipped her hand over in his and looked to her palm. “Hm.” He hummed slightly before he released her he gazed into her eyes a long moment. He still seemed confused. “So who was that man that you danced with? I’ve not seen him before. Interesting for a servant to catch such interest from a nobleman.” He noted as he unbuttoned his jacket. He tilted his head slightly as he watched her, once again he looked as though he wanted to speak of something and yet he didn’t. What was the strange feeling that washed over him? When he took her hand it felt as though he’d taken her hand a thousand times. The warmth that spread through his body when he’d done so was such a unique feeling, he couldn’t place it with anything else. He slipped his jacket from his shoulders and let out a relieved sigh, the jacket was hot and heavy, he hated having to wear it. He looked to her once again puzzled as he began to unbutton his tunic. “Long night...hm? Did you at least enjoy the festival? You were able to partake.” He smiled then, it was a genuine smile. “Did you enjoy the dancing?” He asked his eyes curious.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 0:36:33 GMT -5
Selma figured that out of everything this would be the act that made him cross with her. She expected him to yell, scold, or even strike her. Instead he seemed concerned for her so when Melanie approached to pull him away from her once more she had to excersize every ounce of her will power not to cast the woman a harsh glance. When she realized that Melanie bothered her she couldnt understand why. The Prince wasnt her friend, he was her master. He owed her nothing and everything he had done was from his own kindness.
Even still she couldnt help the feeling of contempt as she watched the two dance throughout the night. The way Melanie giggled and hung onto him stirred a feeling of jealousy within her. It wasnt something she should feel but she couldnt shake the feeling this woman didnt deserve Elijah. They would wed just because their parents had made an agreement. It happened all the time and it never bothered Selma. It bothered her greatly this time and she even had to look away as she couldnt bear the sight.
When it came time for them to leave and head back to the palace she was glad but very disappointed that Melanie was riding with them. When Elijah asked for Selma to ride up front she nodded her agreement and climbed up with the driver to make the track back where a servant should sit.
When they arrived the driver aided her back down to the ground and smiled gently at her as she had actually conversed with the old man during the track. She gave a small wave goodbye and turned to face Elijah just as he kissed Melanie's forehead. Selma clinched her teeth and diverted her eyes quickly to avoid the sight. Why though? It shouldn't even phase her. Who he courted was none of her business. Though when Melanie was handed over to another hand maiden and went to her own room she found herself sighing with relief and eagerly following after Elijah.
Back in the room she relaxed a bit and furrowed her brow as he took her hand and turned it over to observe her palm. She wasnt sure what he was looking for but he seemed very perplexed and she even looked at her own hand when he finally released it. "Um, I'm afraid I didnt catch his name. He.." she paused as she remembered his strange offer and if she should tell Elijah. Deciding against it she gave a slight shake of her head. "I think he had mistook me for someone else, and he used magic to keep me on the dance floor when I tried to leave." She rubbed her arm slightly as she suddenly remembered his firm grip on her as he rambled on with empty promises. "I hope you had a pleasant evening, even if I wasnt able to assist you as I promised." She glanced up as the prince removed his shirt and revealed his bare chest.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 10:44:58 GMT -5
Elijah watched Selma closely his eyes curious as he listened to her response. She seemed to be holding back. Hiding something. Though he didn’t press. He slipped his tunic from his shoulders and turned to his dresser where he pulled out a simple white tunic that he pulled over his head. He kicked off his shoes and let out a long sigh. “This man, if he cast a spell upon you, is it possible that he did something else as well?” He finally questioned his expression was soft as he crossed his arms and leaned against the dresser. He looked to her arm as she’d rubbed it his brows raised and he stepped forward. Without a second thought Elijah grasped her forearm gently and looked to her upper arm looking for any bruising. He frowned slightly when he found the small bruise from a thumb on the inside of her arm. Why was this so upsetting to him? More so than when his mother had bruised her or when Fallon had left the mark on her cheek.
The prince realized then just how close he was to the servant girl. He cleared his throat and stepped back. “My evening was planned.” He gave a nod. “I have chosen Melanie to court, though none of the women really caught my eye.” He found himself staring to Selma his blue eyes seemed to gaze into her soul. He took in another deep breath and shook the thoughts from his head. These feelings. It didn’t make sense. He looked to her with his brows drawn together again. “I think you need to be careful with whom you have interactions with.” He spoke as he walked away from her. He slipped into a pair of soft cotton pants to sleep in and he gave another sigh as he came from behind the divider and he looked to her. He searched her eyes a long moment and gave a soft smile. “I’d hate something to happen to you, you’ve just started.” He spoke as he moved to his bed and sat on the edge of it. He stopped speaking then as he gazed to her, that feeling. He couldn’t shake it. What was this? Had the mystery man really cast some type of spell upon Selma?
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 13:05:43 GMT -5
Elijah was far more concerned than she would have thought he would be and when he grabbed her forearm she flinched. She hadn't realized she had another bruise, but it wasn't surprising as she always had some sort of bruise somewhere. When he asked about the possibility of another spell being cast on her she paused a moment as she hadn't thought about that possibility. She didn't remember any other cantations being uttered but she wasnt to familiar with magic. "I dont believe so, Your Highness. I will be more careful in the future." She gave a bow to him and walked across the room to gather his dirty laundry basket. "If you have no further need of me I'll take my leave for the evening."
The last night, after cleaning the Prince's clothing and hanging it out to dry, Selma had strange dreams of places she had never seen before. In the dreams she wore a strange flowing gown and people hovered around her who she did not know. At first she tried to pull away from the people but then she caught sight of herself in a mirror and saw she was wearing a lavish wedding gown. Beautiful white and blue lace trim. Her veil hung down her back and her hair was being pinned up in an elaborate manner. She wore makeup and sparkling jewels around her neck and wrist, and as strange as the sight was she also found it to be familiar in a way and even had a feeling of happiness overcome her as she smiled to herself.
Sunlight streaming through the window roused her from her pleasant dream and she stretched in her small bed, her hands reaching the wall as her feet hung off the end with her fully extended, and gave a yawn before she got up and hurried to ready herself for the day. Since she had to make herself more presentable than when she had her previous position she took a few minutes longer to get ready but managed to make it to the kitchens just as the cook had set the Prince's breakfast on a tray for her to take up to his chambers. She greeted the guards along the way and knocked lightly before pushing the door open, carefully balancing the tray with one hand as she did, and entered his room. "Good morning Your Highness." She told him to announce herself and walked across the room to set his tray on the table next to his bed then went to open his heavy curtains and allow the sunlight into the dark room. "The chef prepared a breakfast to help with your head if it troubles you from the ale last night."
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 14:06:39 GMT -5
“Of course.” The two words were the only thing to come over the prince’s lips as he watched Selma exit the room. His brows tugged together slightly as he watched after her. Why did it bother him that she was leaving? She was a servant. He’d never been bothered my Lilly leaving for the evening and he was quite close with Lilly, he even thought of her as a friend, though he knew that the nobles would frown upon it. Maybe that was why Lilly was now dead? He shrugged off the thought as he stood and pulled his curtains shut for the evening. First he gazed over the city. His mind was moving quickly from thought to thought and yet his worry for Selma kept popping back into his mind no matter how hard he pushed it back. He grit his teeth slightly, this wasn’t something that he needed, especially not now. Not with Melanie around and with his mother and father watching his every move.
The prince stepped to his bed and blew out the lantern before he curled beneath the blankets. Within his dreams he found himself with a bouquet of flowers, beautiful colors freshly picked and tied together with a simple thread. He was wearing a nice tunic, but nothing nearly as flashing as he wore now. He flattened his tunic and stood up tall as he stopped before a door. He was nervous? Perhaps. He could feel the sensation of butterflies tumbling around in his stomach. He lifted his hand and knocked on the door. It was a nice mansion down in the city. Though as he looked around at the city it didn’t look the same as it did now. The people that walked about...those of the lower class in particular they didn’t have the bracelet on. He drew his brows together slightly as the door opened.
“Elijah.” The woman that answered the door spoke, a smile upon her lips. She was an older woman with a familiar smile. The chocolate brown of her hair had grey hair run within it and wrinkles from smiling lined her eyes. “I’ll go fetch her for you.” The woman stepped forward and kissed his cheek. “You’re such a sweet boy. I’m so glad you asked my daughter to marry you.” She hugged him close a moment. “I couldn’t have asked for anything more.” She spoke as she stepped inside.
Elijah stepped into the home and glanced around. It felt as though he had been here several times. Though he didn’t recognize it. He stepped to a table that held a small picture upon it and just as he reached out to grab the picture his name was called.
“Elijah.” Melanie’s voice broke his dream.
Elijah’s eyes opened quickly to find he was in the manner. He took in quick breaths as the voice had startled him from his sleep. “Melanie?” He asked as he looked around, the soft flicker of a candle lit his room.
“Yes silly.” She was sitting on the edge of the bed. “Who else would I be?” She chuckled as she placed her hand upon his chest.
Elijah looked up to her and a smirk curved up his lips. “Hm, I’m not sure, several women are competing for my attention, if you haven’t heard the news.” He chuckled as he placed his hand over hers.
Melanie lifted a bottle with her other hand and chuckled. “I brought something to share with you.” She spoke as she slipped her hand from his and made her way across the room. “Where do you keep your glasses?” She began poking around his things
Elijah rose from the bed and yawned slightly. “We are sharing a drink now?” He asked with a raised brow. He still wanted to understand his dream, his mind still returned to the strange feeling he had gained from taking Selma’s hand. He pulled two small whiskey glasses out and set them down before Melanie.
“Perfect.” She grinned. She poured the glasses and lifted one to him. “To celebrate.” She smiled to him.
“Did my mother put you up to this?” He questioned with a raised brow as he lifted the glass to his lips.
“Just drink it silly.” She nudged him slightly as she held her own glass.
Elijah drank from his glass, it was a wonderful liquor that had hints of berries. It was dangerous, it didn’t burn like alcohol usually did. Before he knew it he’d had more than one, he and Melanie were giggling as they sat at the end of his bed. The rest of the night became a blur to Elijah…
It wasn’t until the gentle knock on the door that he stirred. He was buried beneath his blankets that he had pulled above his head. He moved slightly and let out a slight groan as he opened his eyes, and he pulled the blanket down slightly. His shirt was tossed over his chair on the other side of the room next to the two empty glasses and the finely made bottle that had been full when Melanie brought it to him. He held his hand to his head. “I do hope the chef prepared something good...” He moved and pushed the blankets from his body as a yawn escaped over his lips. He was only in his cotton pants now as he tried to remember his night. He grabbed the coffee from the tray and moved to the small table that was near the balcony. He looked to Selma then and the woman from his dream came to mind. The older woman held the same cheekbones, the same chocolate brown hair. He drew his brows together. It had to be a spell. “I trust you slept well.” Elijah spoke before he sipped from his coffee, his voice was groggy. How late had he been up? He couldn’t remember anything.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 14:21:30 GMT -5
Selma smiled, though this time it was more genuine than the day before, perhaps the pleasant dream had lightened her mood. "Potatoes and some cured ham I believe. Should help, and I did sleep quite well actually." When she turned and saw the empty bottle and dirty glasses on the table she paused for a moment. She was sure those hadn't been there the night before when she left. She would have never left such a mess sitting out overnight. Come to think of it the prince was also wearing a shirt when she left and now his chest was bare. Someone had made a late visit and she felt a knot form in her stomach as she thought of the implications. Of course it wasnt her place to question his activities so she cleaned up the bottle and glasses and placed them next to the door to be taken out when she took his tray after he had eaten.
Her smile had waned after the discovered but she remained pleasant. "If you have guests during the night and require my help please send for me if you need anything. I do not mind." She told him then went to gather some clothes for him to dress in at his leisure.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 14:38:49 GMT -5
Elijah looked to the potatoes and ham and poked at it a bit before he began eating. He watched as Selma picked up the empty glasses and the bottle, his heart sank slightly. He couldn’t remember what happened but he imagined what had. He lowered his head slightly when she made the comment. Why did it bother him so much? She was his servant. Yet he felt it was wrong of him to be alone with Melanie in such a way. He drew his brows together then as he finished his meal. He stood and glanced to Selma. “Good to know that you are available all hours of the day, Selma.” He spoke as he watched her. “Don’t take me the wrong way but I’m not sure that I needed your assistance last night.” He raised his brow slightly. “The old saying two’s a party and three is company.” He chuckled as he grasped his tunic from the back of the chair and pulled it back over his head before he sat back at the table. He looked to the mess that his bed was and he let out a sigh. “Sorry.” He shook his head. He didn’t quite feel himself. He sucked in a breath and as he went to speak the door pushed open.
Melanie waltzed in with a smile upon her lips. She was dressed beautifully for the day in a blue and white dress that caused the red in her hair to show, her eyes seemed brighter. She was followed by her servant whom carried a tray of food. “Ah, I had a special tray made for us.” She eyed Selma then a frown upon her lips. “But it seems you’ve already eaten.” She sighed as she took a seat with him at the table.
“Melanie.” Elijah spoke his eyes looked to her, he seemed entranced by the woman that sat across from him. A smile curved up his lips as he watched her. “I would enjoy breakfast with you.” He didn’t pull his eyes from her.
“Good, I had a feeling you might.” She placed her hand over his and she watched as a blush flushed over his cheeks. “You had fun last night, hm?” She raised a brow as she watched him.
Elijah raised his brows slightly to the question. “Um...” He glanced to Selma, “Yes...um...” He looked to Melanie again.
“Stumbling over your words, I don’t make you that nervous do I?” She asked as she picked a piece of bacon up and munched upon it. “Why don’t you tell your servant to leave?” She questioned before she glanced to Selma again she looked to her own. “Leave us be, hm?” She watched the young woman bow her head and scurry from the room quickly. She had a bruise upon her cheek, most likely from Melanie.
Elijah took in a breath, “Oh...but she was just cleaning up the room...” He looked to Selma, everything felt wrong. He couldn’t place it. “I need to get ready for the day.” He stood abruptly, he drew his brows together.
Melanie mumbled something under her breath and her hand reached out to his. “Relax, my prince.” She spoke with a smile. “Sit.” She nodded to him. Elijah froze slightly before he sat down. He looked to Melanie and then he looked to her hand that held his. “It would be nice to spend some time with you, hm? Just you and I.” She searched his eyes and gave a gentle squeeze to his hand. “Don’t you think that would be nice, Elijah?”
The prince hesitated and then gave a nod. “Yes. Won’t you leave us alone, Selma?” He didn’t break his eye contact with Melanie, his expression was blank as he stared to her. Melanie had placed him under a binding spell with the special liquor she’d brought into his room. He couldn’t disobey her. He could push back, but only so much before the spell would reel him in.
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Post by Nyte on Jun 30, 2019 14:56:09 GMT -5
Selma was glad she was already holding onto something, a garment that had fallen in his wardrobe and was needing to be placed back on its hanger, as her knuckles turned white from how hard she clinched her fists. Her offer to assist him during the night had been only out of a gentle reminder that she was available. His words about her creating a "crowd" cut much deeper than it should have. No, she didn't expect she was wanted around during certain things but the two werent married yet. It was outright inappropriate for them to stay the night together at this point, even for royalty.
When Selma heard the door open and then Melanie's voice she refrained from looking at the woman out of fear her displeasure would show in her expression. The ensuing conversation was even more infuriating as Melanie practically told Elijah what to do. Who did this wench think she was? She was even trying to dismiss Selma who, if found not tending to the Prince, would be punished severely by the Queen. The breaking point was when Elijah conceded and told her to leave. Up until this point her back had been turned as she made herself look busy with his wardrobe. She clinched her fists again and grit her teeth then there was a small "pop" sound from by the bed. In the center of the bed a fire had started and quickly started to consume the soft fabrics and the flames reached up to the ceiling.
Selma turned to see the fire and jumped from surprise and gave a sharp gasp. "Guards!" She yelled as she rushed to put herself between the fire and the Prince and ushered him towards the door. A random fire was usually started by magic and foul play.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Jun 30, 2019 15:18:18 GMT -5
Elijah was focused on Melanie so much that when the popping sound came from the bed he almost didn’t react. Though when Selma called for the guards his eyes popped to the bed as the flames consumed it and he drew his brows together quickly. “Melanie what is the meaning of this?!” He questioned quickly as he briefly pulled from the clutches of her spell.
Melanie grasped onto his arm, “I didn’t do it, your servant must have done this!” She exclaimed her eyes wide.
“Servants don’t have the power to do such a thing.” Elijah turned to her as guards rushed into the room. The heat of the flames could be felt against his skin. Though Melanie reached up and touched his cheek then and his breath skipped. His breathing slowed and his expression softened. Melanie whispered something into his ear as she leaned in close to him before she kissed his cheek. His eyes seemed to glaze over. He stared at Selma a long moment as water was doused over the flaming bed.
Flames crackled around Elijah as he rushed through his home. “Help!” He cried as he stumbled down the stairs. A silver bracelet was clasped over his wrist.
“Guards!” A familiar voice.
“Selma!” Elijah called as he grasped onto her. “We’re locked in...” His chest heaved as smoke swirled around them. “Look at what they have done to us...” He held her close to himself as he pressed his lips to her forehead. He could feel her body trembling. “I’m so sorry.” He breathed into her hair as his grip tightened around her. He could feel the flames lick against his back. This was the end.
Elijah gasped as he took several steps back from Melanie. “Guards, seize her at once.” He ordered as he shook his head.
“Elijah?” Melanie questioned her brows raised. “How could you?” She asked as the guards grasped a hold of her. “I didn’t do this...please...” She begged as she pulled against them.
Elijah’s head felt dizzy as he backed away from her again. He grit his teeth. He took in quick breaths as he sat down. The captain of the guards came over to him and knelt before him. “Your majesty?” He asked. “What shall we do with her?”
“I….don’t know...just...take her away from me...” He was fighting against the spell his hands were balled into fists, his knuckles white. “Just leave me be.” He took in quick breaths as he fought against it. “Selma...” He groaned as they were left alone in the room. “How...did you manage that?” He questioned his eyes locked on her. He then shook his head. “Thank you...it doesn’t matter how...” The longer he was away from Melanie the more clear his head began to feel. “That bottle.” he stood and stepped over to it. He lifted the empty bottle and sniffed it. His eyes glazed over slightly. He shook his head again. He let out a chuckle. “That explains everything...” He muttered. He then thought back to the strange vision he’d had after Selma called for the guards. How he’d held onto her. He stared at Selma a long moment before he stepped forward. His eyes gazed into hers, “Tell me Selma, how is it that I feel as though I’ve known you for years?” He asked. “Do you feel the same? Because if you do not I must clearly be losing my mind...” He sighed heavily.
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